bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prohibitin1 maintains mitochondrial quality in isoproterenol‐induced cardiac hypertrophy in H9C2 cells
Authors: Chakrabarti Moumita , Raut Ganesh Kumar , Jain Nishant , Bhadra Manika Pal
Published: December 2022

Background Information

Various types of stress initially induce a state of cardiac hypertrophy (CH) in the heart. But, persistent escalation of cardiac stress leads to progression from an adaptive physiological to a maladaptive pathological state. So, elucidating molecular mechanisms that can attenuate CH is imperative in developing cardiac therapies. Previously, we showed that Prohibitin1 (PHB1) has a protective role in CH‐induced oxidative stress. Nevertheless, it is unclear how PHB1, a mitochondrial protein, has a protective role in CH. Therefore, we hypothesized that PHB1 maintains mitochondrial quality in CH. To test this hypothesis, we used Isoproterenol (ISO) to induce CH in H9C2 cells overexpressing PHB1 and elucidated mitochondrial quality control pathways.

Results

We found that overexpressing PHB1 attenuates ISO‐induced CH and restores mitochondrial morphology in H9C2 cells. In addition, PHB1 blocks the pro‐hypertrophic IGF1R/AKT pathway and restores the mitochondrial membrane polarization in ISO‐treated cells. We observed that overexpressing PHB1 promotes mitochondrial biogenesis, improves mitochondrial respiratory capacity, and triggers mitophagy.

Conclusion

We conclude that PHB1 maintains mitochondrial quality in ISO‐induced CH in H9C2 cells.

Significance

Based on our results, we suggest that small molecules that induce PHB1 in cardiac cells may prove beneficial in developing cardiac therapies.
The impact of Allied Health Professionals on the primary and secondary prevention of obesity in young children: A scoping review
Authors: Griffiths Alex , Brooks Rob , Haythorne Rebecca , Kelly Gill , Matu Jamie , Brown Tamara , Ahmed Kanar , Hindle Linda , Ells Louisa
Published: December 2022

Allied Health Professionals (AHPs) have the capacity to promote healthy behaviours in young children through routine ‘contact points’, as well as structured weight management programmes. This scoping review aims to evaluate the impact of AHPs in the prevention of obesity in young children. Databases were searched for relevant evidence between 1st January 2000 and 17th January 2022. Eligibility criteria included primary evidence (including, but not limited to; randomized controlled trials, observational studies, service evaluations) evaluating the impact of AHPs on the primary and secondary prevention of obesity in young children (mean age under 5 years old). AHP‐related interventions typically demonstrated improvements in outcomes such as nutritional behaviour (e.g. lower sweetened drink intake), with some reductions in screen time. However, changes in weight outcomes (e.g. body mass index (BMI) z‐score, BMI) in response to an AHP intervention were inconsistent. There was insufficient data to determine moderating effects, however tentative evidence suggests that those with a lower socioeconomic status or living in an underprivileged area may be more likely to lose weight following an AHP intervention. There was no evidence identified evaluating how AHPs use routine ‘contact points’ in the prevention of obesity in young children. AHP interventions could be effective in optimizing weight and nutritional outcomes in young children. However, more research is required to determine how routine AHP contact points, across the range of professional groups may be used in the prevention of obesity in young children.
Novel bleach activator compounds derived from the reaction of isocyanic acid with selected nucleophiles
Authors: Lewis David M. , Hawkes Jamie A.
Published: December 2022

Laundry detergents commonly contain bleach activators that react with the perhydroxy anion produced from perborate or percarbonate anions to form activated peroxy compounds; these enhance bleaching and stain removal capacity especially at lower temperatures, hydrogen peroxide being an inefficient bleach below 60°C. The most commonly used activators are N, N, N′, N′‐tetraacetylethylenediamine (TAED) and sodium nonanoyloxybenzenesulphonate (SNOBS) the former being used across Europe whereas the latter is used widely in the United States and Japan. This research studies the preparation of novel activator compounds which are carbamylated derivatives of selected nucleophiles using either solid or aqueous reactions of nucleophilic carboxylate anions with the highly reactive isocyanic acid entity derived from the acidification of sodium cyanate. The novel activator compounds were then assessed as bleach activators by testing against tea and bilberry‐stained cotton reference fabrics at 40°C in the presence of hydrogen peroxide at pH values ranging from 4 to 10; bleaching efficiency was assessed visually and colorimetrically. Results showed that all of the synthesised compounds were more effective bleach activators across the pH range tested than the standard TAED system.
Phylogenetic divergence and population genetics of the hydrothermal vent annelid genus Hesiolyra along the East Pacific Rise: Reappraisal using multi‐locus data
Authors: Xi Leyi , Sun Yanan , Xu Ting , Wang Zhi , Chiu Man Ying , Plouviez Sophie , Jollivet Didier , Qiu Jian‐Wen
Published: December 2022

Aim

Maintaining genetic connectivity is crucial for species that inhabit the disjunct and unstable deep‐sea hydrothermal vents. We aimed to re‐assess the connectivity of the annelid genus Hesiolyra distributed at hydrothermal vents along the East Pacific Rise (EPR). A previous study detected a major clade among five Hesiolyra populations spanning from 13°N to 21°S and a minor sympatric southern clade with ~1% divergence from the major clade. However, this study was based on a short locus of 366‐bp COI gene, which might not contain sufficient informative sites.

Location

East Pacific Rise.

Methods

We sequenced 188 specimens of Hesiolyra from five hydrothermal vent fields along the East Pacific Rise for six mitochondrial and two nuclear loci to infer their genetic divergence, population diversity and gene flow.

Results

We found a minor southern clade (Hesiolyra aff. bergi) which was genetically distinct from Hesiolyra bergi sensu stricto for all gene markers explored except 16S. We also found shared genotypes between H. bergi and H. aff. bergi likely resulted from incomplete lineage sorting. For H. bergi s.s., we found a low but fixed divergence between the north and south EPR populations. We estimated the northern and southern metapopulations of H. bergi s.s. split ~0.45 Mya (HPD: 0.27–0.74 Mya). The northern metapopulation had a higher haplotype diversity than the southern metapopulation, indicating historical gene flow and loss of genetic diversity in the southern clade.

Main conclusions

We confirmed that the equatorial dispersal filter observed previously on several other vent species also applies to H. bergi. Our results highlight the power of the multi‐locus approach in revealing the divergence and population genetic history of marine species with strong dispersal capabilities, indicating that the NEPR and the SEPR should be considered as separate biogeographic regions in environmental management and biological conservation.
Combined method of whole mount and block‐face imaging: Acquisition of 3D data of gene expression pattern from conventional in situ hybridization
Authors: Sutrisno Aldy Anindyawan , Katano Wataru , Kawamura Hayata , Tajika Yuki , Koshiba‐Takeuchi Kazuko
Published: December 2022

Visualization of spatiotemporal expression of a gene of interest is a fundamental technique for analyzing the involvements of genes in organ development. In situ hybridization (ISH) is one of the most popular methods for visualizing gene expression. When conventional ISH is performed on sections or whole‐mount specimens, the gene expression pattern is represented in 2‐dimensional (2D) microscopic images or in the surface view of the specimen. To obtain 3‐dimensional (3D) data of gene expression from conventional ISH, the “serial section method” has traditionally been employed. However, this method requires an extensive amount of time and labor because it requires researchers to collect a tremendous number of sections, label all sections by ISH, and image them before 3D reconstruction. Here, we proposed a rapid and low‐cost 3D imaging method that can create 3D gene expression patterns from conventional ISH‐labeled specimens. Our method consists of a combination of whole‐mount ISH and Correlative Microscopy and Blockface imaging (CoMBI). The whole‐mount ISH‐labeled specimens were sliced using a microtome or cryostat, and all block‐faces were imaged and used to reconstruct 3D images by CoMBI. The 3D data acquired using our method showed sufficient quality to analyze the morphology and gene expression patterns in the developing mouse heart. In addition, 2D microscopic images of the sections can be obtained when needed. Correlating 2D microscopic images and 3D data can help annotate gene expression patterns and understand the anatomy of developing organs. These results indicated that our method can be useful in the field of developmental biology.
Pyruvate dehydrogenase phosphatase 1 (PDP1) stimulates HIF activity by supporting histone acetylation under hypoxia
Authors: Karagiota Angeliki , Kanoura Amalia , Paraskeva Efrosyni , Simos George , Chachami Georgia
Published: December 2022

Cancer cells, when exposed to the hypoxic tumour microenvironment, respond by activating hypoxia‐inducible factors (HIFs). HIF‐1 mediates extensive metabolic re‐programming, and expression of HIF‐1α, its oxygen‐regulated subunit, is associated with poor prognosis in cancer. Here we analyse the role of pyruvate dehydrogenase phosphatase 1 (PDP1) in the regulation of HIF‐1 activity. PDP1 is a key hormone‐regulated metabolic enzyme that dephosphorylates and activates pyruvate dehydrogenase (PDH), thereby stimulating the conversion of pyruvate into acetyl‐CoA. Silencing of PDP1 down‐regulated HIF transcriptional activity and the expression of HIF‐dependent genes, including that of PDK1, the kinase that phosphorylates and inactivates PDH, opposing the effects of PDP1. Inversely, PDP1 stimulation enhanced HIF activity under hypoxia. Alteration of PDP1 levels or activity did not have an effect on HIF‐1α protein levels, nuclear accumulation or interaction with its partners ARNT and NPM1. However, depletion of PDP‐1 decreased histone H3 acetylation of HIF‐1 target gene promoters and inhibited binding of HIF‐1 to the respective hypoxia‐response elements (HREs) under hypoxia. Furthermore, the decrease of HIF transcriptional activity upon PDP1 depletion could be reversed by treating the cells with acetate, as an exogenous source of acetyl‐CoA, or the histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitor trichostatin A. These data suggest that the PDP1/PDH/HIF‐1/PDK1 axis is part of a homeostatic loop which, under hypoxia, preserves cellular acetyl‐CoA production to a level sufficient to sustain chromatin acetylation and transcription of hypoxia‐inducible genes.
GPR56 C‐terminal fragment mediates signal received by N‐terminal fragment of another adhesion GPCR Latrophilin1 in neurons
Authors: Nojima Yusuke , Toriyama Manami , Tago Kenji , Mizuno Norikazu , Morishita Kazuhiro , Itoh Hiroshi
Published: December 2022

Adhesion GPCRs (aGPCRs) are a subfamily of GPCRs that are involved in cell adhesion, cell proliferation, and cell migration in various tissues. G protein‐coupled receptor proteolytic site (GPS) of aGPCR is required to cleave the extracellular domain autocatalytically, generating two fragments; a N‐terminal fragment (NTF) and a C‐terminal fragment (CTF) containing seven transmembrane structure. NTF can interact with CTF non‐covalently after cleavage, however the physiological significance of the cleavage of aGPCR at GPS, and also the interaction between NTF and CTF have not been fully clarified yet. In this study, we first investigated the expression profiles of two aGPCRs, GPR56/ADGRG1, and LPHN1/ADGRL1 in mouse brain, and found that the NTF and CTF of GPR56 independently expressed in different brain region at different developmental stages. Immunoprecipitation of GPR56CTF co‐immunoprecipitated LPHN1NTF from mouse brain and HEK293T cells expressing both fragments. Stimulation with LPHN1 ligand, α‐Latrotoxin N4C (αLTXN4C), to cells expressing LPHN1NTF and GPR56CTF increased intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i). We also demonstrated that GPR56KO mouse neurons attenuated their Ca2+ response to αLTXN4C. These results suggest the possibility of functional and chimeric complex containing LPHN1NTF and GPR56CTF in neuronal signal transduction.
Subacute exposure to bisphenol F diglycidyl‐ether induces chronic dermatitis characterized by psoriasis‐like skin inflammation in mice
Authors: Kitagawa Kyoko , Shibata Eiji , Yamamoto Megumi , Harada Hiroshi , Yoshino Kiyoshi , Iwashita Toshihide , Oshima Masanobu , Tsuji Mayumi
Published: December 2022

Bisphenol F diglycidyl ether (BFDGE) is widely used in the synthesis process of plastic products. While exposure to bisphenol A diglycidyl ether (BADGE), which has a similar structure to BFDGE and which is used for the same purpose, has been reported to cause health risks, there is still little information on BFDGE. Because it is estimated that the industrial workers are exposed to large amounts of BFDGE, the health risks associated with BFDGE exposure need to be clarified. We investigated the toxicity of cutaneous exposure to BFDGE using an in vitro evaluation system and a mouse exposure model. The tumorigenic potential of BFDGE was confirmed by the Bhas 42 cell transformation assay, which showed that BFDGE has both promoter and initiator activity, in vitro. A single dermal application of BFDGE was associated with minor contact hypersensitivity symptoms. In contrast, repeated dermal exposure to BFDGE for 2 weeks induced persistent acute inflammation with features similar to inflammation in human psoriasis. This is the first report evaluating the toxicity of BFDGE in animals, and we showed that BFDGE carries a health risk of inducing skin dermatitis similar to that in human psoriasis in an exposure period‐dependent manner.
Subclinical atherosclerosis as detected by carotid ultrasound and associations with cardiac and HIV‐specific risk factors; the Archi‐Prevaleat project
Authors: Maggi Paolo , Ricci Elena Delfina , Muccini Camilla , Galli Laura , Celesia Benedetto Maurizio , Ferrara Sergio , Salameh Yara , Basile Rosa , Di Filippo Giovanni , Taccari Francesco , Tartaglia Alessandra , Castagna Antonella
Published: December 2022

Objectives

To evaluate the prevalence of carotid intima‐media thickness (IMT) and plaques in a cohort of people living with HIV (PLWH), the role of cardiovascular risk factors, the impact of the antiretroviral regimens and the difference between naïve and experienced patients in the onset of carotid lesions.

Methods

This project was initiated in 2019 and involves eight Italian centres. Carotid changes were detected using a power colour‐Doppler ultrasonography with 7.5 MHz probes. The following parameters were evaluated: IMT of both the right and left common and internal carotids, data regarding risk factors for cardiovascular disease, HIV viral load, CD4 cell counts, serum lipids, glycaemia and body mass index. The associations between pathological findings and potential risk factors were evaluated by logistical regression, with odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI)s.

Results

Among 1147 evaluated PLWH, with a mean age of 52 years, 347 (30.2%) had pathological findings (15.8% plaques and 14.5% IMT). Besides the usual risk factors, such as older age, male sex and dyslipidaemia, CD4 cell nadir < 200 cells/mL (adjusted OR = 1.51, 95% CI: 1.14–1.99) and current use of raltegravir (adjusted OR = 1.54, 95% CI: 1.01–2.36) were associated with higher prevalence of pathological findings.

Conclusions

Our data show that the current overall percentage of carotid impairments remains high. Colour‐Doppler ultrasonography could play a pivotal role in identifying and quantifying atherosclerotic lesions among PLWH, even at a very premature stage, and should be included in the algorithms of comorbidity management of these patients.
Peptidomic insights on structural protein hydrolysis by exopeptidase activities and its effects on bitterness defects of dry‐cured ham
Authors: Xiang Aiyue , Wang Ying , Sun Baoguo , Xu Xinglian , Zhou Guanghong , Zhou Changyu , Geng Fang , Pan Daodong , Cao Jinxuan
Published: December 2022

Excessive bitterness is a common problem and is related to the hydrolysis of structural proteins degradation in the dry‐cured ham industry. To better understand the effect of structural proteins (myosin, titin, troponin) degradation on sensory development of Jinhua ham, sensory attributes, exopeptidase activities, peptide fragments and cleavage sites of structural proteins were investigated in both premium and defective hams. The results of sensory evaluation and electronic tongue revealed that more than 1.5‐fold values in bitterness intensities and less than 0.67‐fold values in richness intensities were observed in defective ham, compared with premium ham. The activities of exopeptidase were determined, and the results indicated that the residual activities of TPP I in defective ham were higher, while the residual activities of LAP and AAP were lower, compared with premium ham. The large numbers of unique peptide fragments derived from myosin, titin and troponin were identified in defective ham. Several unique cleavage sites including L‐399, L‐1047 and K‐1053 for MYH 1 and MYH 4, K‐257, R‐694, K‐1374 and K‐1651 for MYH 7, and K‐92 and K‐103 for TNN C1 and TNN C2 were only presented in defective ham, which were intensely response to the excessive accumulation of peptides and the development of excessive bitterness in defective ham. This study could provide a theoretical basis for the regulation of bitterness defects in dry‐cured ham in the future.
Antibody titres elicited by the 2018 seasonal inactivated influenza vaccine decline by 3 months post‐vaccination but persist for at least 6 months
Authors: Mordant Francesca L. , Price Olivia H. , Rudraraju Rajeev , Slavin Monica A. , Marshall Caroline , Worth Leon J. , Peck Heidi , Barr Ian G. , Sullivan Sheena G. , Subbarao Kanta
Published: December 2022

Background

In Australia, seasonal inactivated influenza vaccine is typically offered in April. However, the onset, peak and end of a typical influenza season vary, and optimal timing for vaccination remains unclear. Here, we investigated vaccine‐induced antibody response kinetics over 6 months in different age groups.

Methods

We conducted a prospective serosurvey among 71 adults aged 18–50 years, 15 community‐dwelling (‘healthy’) and 16 aged‐care facility resident (‘frail’) older adults aged ≥65 years who received the 2018 southern hemisphere vaccines. Sera were collected at baseline, and 1, 2, 4, and 6 months post‐vaccination. Antibody titres were measured by haemagglutination inhibition or microneutralisation assays. Geometric mean titres were estimated using random effects regression modelling and superimposed on 2014–2018 influenza season epidemic curves.

Results

Antibody titres peaked 1.2–1.3 months post‐vaccination for all viruses, declined by 3 months post‐vaccination but, notably, persisted above baseline after 6 months in all age groups by 1.3‐ to 1.5‐fold against A(H1N1)pdm09, 1.7‐ to 2‐fold against A(H3N2), 1.7‐ to 2.1‐fold against B/Yamagata and 1.8‐fold against B/Victoria. Antibody kinetics were similar among different age groups. Antibody responses were poor against cell‐culture grown compared to egg‐grown viruses.

Conclusions

These results suggest subtype‐specific antibody‐mediated protection persists for at least 6 months, which corresponds to the duration of a typical influenza season.
Influence of fabrication conditions on the structural characteristics and the magnetic properties of FeAl2O4
Authors: Nakane Takayuki , Ishii Satoshi , Uchikoshi Tetsuo , Naka Takashi
Published: December 2022

We report a systematic evaluation of the magnetic properties of FeAl2O4 focusing on the relationship between the fabrication conditions and its structural characteristics, in order to improve ceramics processing in applications of this material. For this purpose, the most important factor to control is the inversion parameter, expressed as y in the (Fe1−yAly)(Al1−y/2Fey/2)2O4 composition, which is relatively high for the spinel aluminate of a transition metal. The magnetic properties of these samples all show the spin glass phenomenon at low temperatures, and the cusp temperature depends systematically on this y value. This means that the evaluation of these magnetic properties will be an effective way to predict some characteristics of product FeAl2O4. Additionally, this study found an anomaly in the structural and magnetic characteristics of FeAl2O4 fabricated at a low temperature. This is thought to originate in a tiny and a small amount of impurity. It will be key for discussing the quality of chemically synthesized FeAl2O4, which is typically produced at low temperatures.
Validity and reliability of a mobile digital imaging analysis trained by a four‐compartment model
Authors: Graybeal Austin J. , Brandner Caleb F. , Tinsley Grant M.
Published: December 2022

Background

Digital imaging analysis (DIA) estimates collected from mobile applications comprise a novel technique that can collect body composition estimates remotely without the inherent restrictions of other research‐grade devices. However, the accuracy of the artificial intelligence used in DIA is reliant on the accuracy of the developmental methods. Few DIA applications are trained by multicompartment models, but this developmental strategy may be most accurate. Thus, the aim of the present study was to assess the precision and agreement of a DIA application with developmental software trained by a four‐compartment (4C) model using an actual 4C model as the criterion method.

Methods

For this cross‐sectional study, body composition estimations were collected from 102 participants (63 females, 39 males) using the methods necessary for a rapid 4C model and a DIA application using two different smartphones.

Results

Intraclass correlation coefficients (0.96–0.99; all p < 0.001) and root mean square coefficients of variation (0.5%–3.0%) showed good reliability for body fat percentage, fat mass and fat‐free mass. There were no significant mean differences between the 4C model or the DIA estimates for the total sample, by sex, and for non‐Hispanic White (n = 61) and Black/African‐American (n = 32) participants (all p > 0.050). DIA estimates demonstrated equivalence with the 4C model for all variables but revealed proportional biases that underestimated body fat percentage (both β = −0.25; p < 0.001) and fat mass (both β = −0.07; p < 0.010) at higher degrees of each variable.

Conclusions

DIA applications trained by a 4C model are reliable and produce body composition estimates equivalent to an actual 4C model.
Racial‐ethnic socialization, racial discrimination, and internalization of the model minority myth in East Asian families
Authors: Kim Sei Eun , Zhao Zhenqiang , Wong Sylvia H. M. , Toomey Russell B.
Published: December 2022

Guided by the integrative model, this study investigated the moderating effect of East Asian American youth‐reported (N = 143) racial‐ethnic socialization (RES) in the relationship between the youth's experiences of discrimination and internalization of the model minority myth. The results suggest that there was a significant interaction between youth's racial discrimination and youth‐reported awareness of discrimination on youth's internalization of the model minority myth (b = 3.52, p < .05). No significant interaction effect emerged between racial discrimination and maintenance of heritage culture on internalization of model minority myth. The findings offer several contributions to inform research, family, and communities in understanding the ways caregivers respond to youth's racialized settings, which also contribute to youth's positive outcomes.
A disease‐targeted picture book for children with Henoch‐Schonlein purpura nephritis: A quasi‐experimental study
Authors: Tang Yao , Chen Weiti , Li Jingping , Deng Yuqian , Liu Shibo , Zhou Xia , Xie Jianhui , Zhan Chaohong , Li Xianhong
Published: December 2022

Background

Children with Henoch‐Schonlein purpura nephritis are frequently burdened with psychological problems besides disease treatment and adherence. Currently, there is a shortage of appropriate and effective educational materials to facilitate physical and psychological recovery.

Objectives

To examine a picture book for the effectiveness of disease‐related knowledge, coping strategies, resilience, quality of life and depressive symptoms in children with Henoch‐Schonlein purpura nephritis in China.

Design

A quasi‐experimental design with repeated measures was adopted. The control group received standard care. The intervention group received the standard care plus a free picture book. This disease‐specific picture book narrated the story of two rabbits diagnosed with Henoch‐Schonlein purpura nephritis who underwent a series of examinations, faced difficulties taking medication, and eventually recovered.

Participants

The study recruited 60 children diagnosed with Henoch‐Schonlein purpura nephritis.

Measurements

Disease‐related knowledge, resilience, coping strategies, depression and paediatric quality of life were measured at baseline, the third day, the first month and the third month after recruitment. The acceptability of the picture book was evaluated at the last data‐collection point.

Results

The data showed that children in the intervention group demonstrated higher levels of knowledge (p < 0.001), less usage of emotional coping strategies (p = 0.003), reduced depressive symptoms (p = 0.003), improved psychological resilience (p < 0.001), and better quality of life (p < 0.046) than those in the control group in the third month. Most children (83.3%) in the intervention group were satisfied with the picture book.

Conclusions

The targeted picture book is an effective educational tool for improving clinical outcomes and was highly accepted by children.
Linking resource‐ and disturbance‐based models to explain tree–grass coexistence in savannas
Authors: Holdo Ricardo M. , Nippert Jesse B.
Published: December 2022

Savannas cover a significant fraction of the Earth's land surface. In these ecosystems, C3 trees and C4 grasses coexist persistently, but the mechanisms explaining coexistence remain subject to debate. Different quantitative models have been proposed to explain coexistence, but these models make widely contrasting assumptions about which mechanisms are responsible for savanna persistence. Here, we show that no single existing model fully captures all key elements required to explain tree–grass coexistence across savanna rainfall gradients, but many models make important contributions. We show that recent empirical work allows us to combine many existing elements with new ideas to arrive at a synthesis that combines elements of two dominant frameworks: Walter's two‐layer model and demographic bottlenecks. We propose that functional rooting separation is necessary for coexistence and is the crux of the coexistence problem. It is both well‐supported empirically and necessary for tree persistence, given the comprehensive grass superiority for soil moisture acquisition. We argue that eventual tree dominance through shading is precluded by ecohydrological constraints in dry savannas and by fire and herbivores in wet savannas. Strong asymmetric grass–tree competition for soil moisture limits tree growth, exposing trees to persistent demographic bottlenecks.
SCARECROW‐LIKE28 modulates organ growth in Arabidopsis by controlling mitotic cell cycle exit, endoreplication, and cell expansion dynamics
Authors: Goldy Camila , Barrera Virginia , Taylor Isaiah , Buchensky Celeste , Vena Rodrigo , Benfey Philip N. , De Veylder Lieven , Rodriguez Ramiro E.
Published: December 2022

The processes that contribute to plant organ morphogenesis are spatial–temporally organized. Within the meristem, mitosis produces new cells that subsequently engage in cell expansion and differentiation programs. The latter is frequently accompanied by endoreplication, being an alternative cell cycle that replicates the DNA without nuclear division, causing a stepwise increase in somatic ploidy.

Here, we show that the Arabidopsis SCL28 transcription factor promotes organ growth by modulating cell expansion dynamics in both root and leaf cells.

Gene expression studies indicated that SCL28 regulates members of the SIAMESE/SIAMESE‐RELATED (SIM/SMR) family, encoding cyclin‐dependent kinase inhibitors with a role in promoting mitotic cell cycle (MCC) exit and endoreplication, both in response to developmental and environmental cues. Consistent with this role, mutants in SCL28 displayed reduced endoreplication, both in roots and leaves. We also found evidence indicating that SCL28 co‐expresses with and regulates genes related to the biogenesis, assembly, and remodeling of the cytoskeleton and cell wall.

Our results suggest that SCL28 controls, not only cell proliferation as reported previously but also cell expansion and differentiation by promoting MCC exit and endoreplication and by modulating aspects of the biogenesis, assembly, and remodeling of the cytoskeleton and cell wall.
Time delays and pollution in an open‐access fishery
Authors: Bergland Harald , Mishra Purnedu , Pedersen Pål Andreas , Ponossov Arkadi , Wyller John
Published: December 2022

We analyze the impacts of pollution on fishery sector using a dynamical system approach. The proposed model presupposes that the economic development causes emissions that either remediate or accumulate in the oceans. The model possesses a block structure where the solutions of the rate equations for the pollutant and the economic activity act as an input for the biomass and effort equation. We also account for distributed delay effects in both the pollution level and the economic activity level in our modeling framework. The weight functions in the delay terms are expressed in terms of exponentially decaying functions, which in turn enable us to convert the modeling framework to a higher‐order autonomous dynamical system by means of a linear chain trick. When both the typical delay time for the economic activity and the typical delay time for the pollution level are much smaller than the biomass time scale, the governing system is analyzed by means of the theory for singularly perturbed dynamical systems. Contrary to what is found for population dynamical systems with absolute delays, we readily find that the impact of the distributed time lags is negligible in the long‐run dynamics in this time‐scale separation regime.

Recommendations for Resource Managers

Resource managers should be aware of the dynamical interrelations between fisheries and pollution, also those that are time delayed.

Time lags between biological, economic, and environmental variables are affecting the time paths of these variables.

In the long run, the impact from distributed time lags have a negligible influence on the long‐run dynamical evolution.

Neither the past history of economic activities nor the past history of pollution growth can affect the fishery dynamics in the long run.

More empirical and theoretical research are needed to increase our understanding of the interrelation between fisheries and pollution.
Large Time‐Varying Volatility Models for Hourly Electricity Prices*
Authors: Gianfreda Angelica , Ravazzolo Francesco , Rossini Luca
Published: December 2022

We study the importance of time‐varying volatility in modelling hourly electricity prices when fundamental drivers are included in the estimation. This allows us to contribute to the literature of large Bayesian VARs by using well‐known time series models in a large dimension for the matrix of coefficients. Based on novel Bayesian techniques, we exploit the importance of both Gaussian and non‐Gaussian error terms in stochastic volatility. We find that using regressors as fuel prices, forecasted demand and forecasted renewable energy is essential to properly capture the volatility of these prices. Moreover, we show that the time‐varying volatility models outperform the constant volatility models in both the in‐sample model‐fit and the out‐of‐sample forecasting performance.
Obesity in South and Southeast Asia—A new consensus on care and management
Authors: Tham Kwang Wei , Abdul Ghani Rohana , Cua Sioksoan C. , Deerochanawong Chaicharn , Fojas Mia , Hocking Samantha , Lee June , Nam Tran Quang , Pathan Faruque , Saboo Banshi , Soegondo Sidartawan , Somasundaram Noel , Yong Alice M. L. , Ashkenas John , Webster Nicola , Oldfield Brian
Published: December 2022

Obesity is a chronic disease in which the abnormal or excessive accumulation of body fat leads to impaired health and increased risk of mortality and chronic health complications. Prevalence of obesity is rising rapidly in South and Southeast Asia, with potentially serious consequences for local economies, healthcare systems, and quality of life. Our group of obesity specialists from Bangladesh, Brunei Darussalam, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Viet Nam undertook to develop consensus recommendations for management and care of adults and children with obesity in South and Southeast Asia. To this end, we identified and researched 12 clinical questions related to obesity. These questions address the optimal approaches for identifying and staging obesity, treatment (lifestyle, behavioral, pharmacologic, and surgical options) and maintenance of reduced weight, as well as issues related to weight stigma and patient engagement in the clinical setting. We achieved consensus on 42 clinical recommendations that address these questions. An algorithm describing obesity care is presented, keyed to the various consensus recommendations.
Starch degradation in the bean fruit pericarp is characterized by an increase in maltose metabolism
Authors: Bernal Lilia , Luján‐Soto Eduardo , Fajardo‐Hernández Carlos A. , Coello Patricia , Figueroa Mario , Martínez‐Barajas Eleazar
Published: December 2022

The bean fruit pericarp accumulates a significant amount of starch, which starts to be degraded 20 days after anthesis (DAA) when seed growth becomes exponential. This period is also characterized by the progressive senescence of the fruit pericarp. However, the chloroplasts maintained their integrity, indicating that starch degradation is a compartmentalized process. The process coincided with a transient increase in maltose and sucrose levels, suggesting that β‐amylase is responsible for starch degradation. Starch degradation in the bean fruit pericarp is also characterized by a large increase in starch phosphorylation, as well as in the activities of cytosolic disproportionating enzyme 2 (DPE2, EC 2.4.1.25) and glucan phosphorylase (PHO2, EC 2.4.1.1). This suggests that the rate of starch degradation in the bean fruit pericarp 20 DAA is dependent on the transformation of starch to a better substrate for β‐amylase and the increase in the rate of cytosolic metabolism of maltose.
Bayesian inverse problems with heterogeneous variance
Authors: Bochkina Natalia , Rodrigues Jenovah
Published: December 2022

We consider inverse problems in Hilbert spaces under correlated Gaussian noise, and use a Bayesian approach to find their regularized solution. We focus on mildly ill‐posed inverse problems with fractional noise, using a novel wavelet‐based vaguelette–vaguelette approach. It allows us to apply sequence space methods without assuming that all operators are simultaneously diagonalizable. The results are proved for more general bases and covariance operators. Our primary aim is to study posterior contraction rate in such inverse problems over Sobolev classes and compare it to the derived minimax rate. Secondly, we study effect of plugging in a consistent estimator of variances in sequence space on the posterior contraction rate. This result is applied to the problem with error in forward operator. Thirdly, we show that empirical Bayes posterior distribution with a plugged‐in maximum marginal likelihood estimator of the prior scale contracts at the optimal rate, adaptively, in the minimax sense.
Return Migration Intentions Driven by Parental Concerns and the Value of Children
Authors: Tezcan Tolga
Published: December 2022

Using an integrated qualitative approach and semi‐structured interviews with 32 second‐generation Turkish parents in Germany, this study examines the parental concerns formed by assessing the value of children, which, in turn, influence return migration intentions. This study proposes that parents develop three main concerns in an attempt to maximize the value of their children: (1) socioeconomic, (2) assimilation, and (3) marriage concerns. Return migration intention itself turns into a parental investment by designating the home country as the final destination where these concerns can be resolved, and thus their children may reach their full potential for themselves and their families. This study suggests that in the context of migrant families, the value of children can be a potential predictor of return migration since it is subject to changes during the life course in response to the cultural, social, and economic contexts of the host and home countries.
Dose‐dependent effects of red blood cell transfusion and case mix index on venous thromboembolic events in spine surgery
Authors: Lo Brian D. , Qayum Omar , Penberthy Kristen K. , Gyi Richard , Lester Laeben C. , Hensley Nadia B. , Sciubba Daniel M. , Frank Steven M. , Cho Brian C.
Published: December 2022

Background and Objectives

Venous thromboembolic (VTE) events represent a major source of morbidity and mortality in spine surgery. Our goal was to assess whether a dose–response relationship exists between red blood cell (RBC) transfusion and postoperative VTE events among spine surgery patients.

Materials and Methods

A total of 786 spine surgery patients at a single institution who received at least 1 RBC unit perioperatively were included (2016–2019). Patients were stratified based on RBC transfusion volume: 1–2 units (39.3%), 3–4 units (29.4%), 5–6 units (15.9%) and ≥7 units (15.4%). Subgroup analyses were performed after stratification by case mix index, a standardized surrogate for patients' disease severity and comorbidities. Multivariable regression was used to assess risk factors for the development of postoperative VTE events.

Results

The overall VTE event rate was 2.4% (n = 19). A dose–response relationship was seen between RBC transfusion volume and VTE events (1–2 units: 0.97%, 3–4 units: 1.30%, 5–6 units: 3.20%, ≥7 units: 7.44%; p < 0.01). Similar dose–response relationships were seen between case mix index and VTE events (1.00–3.99: 0.52%, 4.00–6.99: 2.68%, ≥7.00: 9.00%; p < 0.01). On multivariable regression, larger RBC transfusion volumes (adjusted odds ratio [OR] 1.18 per RBC unit, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.07–1.29; p < 0.01) and higher case mix index scores (adjusted OR 1.39 per unit increase, 95% CI 1.14–1.69; p < 0.01) were associated with an increased risk of thrombosis.

Conclusion

Larger RBC transfusion volumes and higher case mix index scores were associated with an increased risk of VTE events. Physicians should be aware of how these dose–response relationships can influence a patient's risk of developing thrombotic complications postoperatively.
Effects of Elastoplasticity, Damage, and Environmental Exposure on the Behavior of Adhesive Step-Lap Joints
Authors: Michopoulos John G. , Apetre Nicole A. , Iliopoulos Athanasios P. , Steuben John C.
Published: December 2022

The presence of damage in the adhesive material as well as combined environmental excitation in multi-material adhesive step-lap joints (ASLJs) often encountered in aircraft industries are frequently neglected. Historically, the ASLJ design is based only within the scope of elastoplastic failure. The present work describes the implementation and application of a computational framework enabling the quasistatic performance evaluation of such joints under the simultaneous presence of plasticity, damage, and hygrothermal environmental stimuli. In particular, ASLJ linking Ti–6Al–4V alloy adherents with an FM-300K adhesive are modeled under the proposed framework for various material responses and environmental excitations. It is shown that the assumption of using only elastoplastic failure for the adhesive may not be an adequate assumption for designing and qualifying ASLJs. Specifically, consideration of the presence of plasticity, damage, and environmental effects indicates that there are reasons to re-examine the design practices of such joints and to determine the relevant material constants associated with the multiphysics cross-coupling effects.
A Minimum-Control-Trajectory-Deviation Time Grid Reconstruction Strategy for Co-Design Approach
Authors: Zhang Jinwen , Li Congbo , Li Yongsheng , Wang Ningbo , Li Wei
Published: December 2022

Optimizing dynamic engineering systems (DESs) is quite challenging due to the increasing pursuit of automation and intelligence in modern industry. However, most of the existing studies generally only focus on plant variables or control variables of DESs, which may fail to explore optimal solutions. In this paper, a novel minimum-control-trajectory-deviation (MCTD) time grid reconstruction strategy is presented for the co-design approach. Three co-design approaches, namely simultaneous, nested, and direct transcription quadratic programming (DTQP) are compared using the MCTD time grid reconstruction strategy. Considering a number of design variables are time-varying in practical dynamic systems, three co-design methods use a special class of numerical analysis methods known as direct transcription (DT) that implies a “discretize-then-optimize” process. Motivated by the inefficiency of the traditional uniform discrete strategy, an MCTD time grid reconstruction strategy is proposed. Combining the presented time grid reconstruction strategy, simultaneous, nested, and DTQP methods are implemented for three test problems. The MCTD time grid reconstruction strategy is verified through a mathematical example, the Van der Pol oscillator, and a machine tool case. All cases have proved the superiority of presented strategy in running cost and solution accuracy.
Performance Evaluation of a Fin and Tube Heat Exchanger Based on Different Shapes of the Winglets
Authors: Sharma Rishikesh , Mishra D. P. , Sarangi S. K. , Brar Lakhbir Singh
Published: December 2022

The present work investigates numerically the performance of a fin- and tube-type heat exchanger using the finite volume method. The effect of different winglet geometries, namely, straight profile, concave profile, convex profile, and their combinations are extensively examined under turbulent flow conditions to evaluate the pressure drop and heat transfer performance. These winglets are also tested for smaller leading-edge and larger trailing edge, and vice versa—it has been observed that the former winglet configuration outperforms the latter ones. The convex profiled winglets yield the highest heat transfer performance as well as pressure drops, whereas the winglet with a concave profile has the lowest heat transfer coefficient and pressure drop values. The enhancement factor—defined as the ratio of enhancement in heat transfer to the enhancement in pressure drop penalty—has also been calculated for all models. Conclusive results indicate that the convex profile and the concave–convex (a hybrid winglet) configuration, with a smaller leading edge, deliver the highest enhancement factor compared to other profiles. Following this, the study is further elaborated to find the optimum height for the convex winglet profile. General correlations have also been developed to estimate the Colburn factor, friction factor, and enhancement factor for variations in the leading edge of the convex profile.
Hidden energies around surfaces, edges, and corners in rooms
Authors: Jeong Cheol-Ho
Published: December 2022

The Reflections series takes a look back on historical articles from The Journal of the Acoustical Society of America that have had a significant impact on the science and practice of acoustics.
Monitoring of cell-cell communication and contact history in mammals
Authors: Zhang Shaohua , Zhao Huan , Liu Zixin , Liu Kuo , Zhu Huan , Pu Wenjuan , He Lingjuan , Wang Rong A. , Zhou Bin
Published: December 2022

Monitoring of cell-cell communication in multicellular organisms is fundamental to understanding diverse biological processes such as embryogenesis and tumorigenesis. To track cell-cell contacts in vivo, we developed an intercellular genetic technology to monitor cell-cell contact and to trace cell contact histories by permanently marking contacts between cells. In mice, we engineered an artificial Notch ligand into one cell (the sender cell) and an artificial receptor into another cell (the receiver cell). Contact between the sender and receiver cells triggered a synthetic Notch signaling that activated downstream transcriptional programs in the receiver cell, thereby transiently or permanently labeling it. In vivo cell-cell contact was observed during development, tissue homeostasis, and tumor growth. This technology may be useful for studying dynamic in vivo cell-cell contacts and cell fate plasticity.
Phosphoenolpyruvate reallocation links nitrogen fixation rates to root nodule energy state
Authors: Ke Xiaolong , Xiao Han , Peng Yaqi , Wang Jing , Lv Qi , Wang Xuelu
Published: December 2022

Legume-rhizobium symbiosis in root nodules fixes nitrogen to satisfy the plant’s nitrogen demands. The nodules’ demand for energy is thought to determine nitrogen fixation rates. How this energy state is sensed to modulate nitrogen fixation is unknown. Here, we identified two soybean (
Glycine max
) cystathionine β-synthase domain–containing proteins, nodule AMP sensor 1 (GmNAS1) and NAS1-associated protein 1 (GmNAP1). In the high–nodule energy state, GmNAS1 and GmNAP1 form homodimers that interact with the nuclear factor-Y C (NF-YC) subunit (GmNFYC10a) on mitochondria and reduce its nuclear accumulation. Less nuclear GmNFYC10a leads to lower expression of glycolytic genes involved in pyruvate production, which modulates phosphoenolpyruvate allocation to favor nitrogen fixation. Insight into these pathways may help in the design of leguminous crops that have improved carbon use, nitrogen fixation, and growth.
Active DNA demethylation damages DNA
Authors: López-Moyado Isaac F. , Rao Anjana
Published: December 2022

Active DNA demethylation maintains enhancer activity in nonproliferating cells but can damage DNA
Pandemic accelerates ‘GRExit’
Authors: Langin Katie
Published: December 2022

Nearly all U.S. Ph.D. programs have dropped the standardized GRE exam as an admissions requirement
Two-Color CRISPR Imaging Reveals Dynamics of Herpes Simplex Virus 1 Replication Compartments and Virus-Host Interactions
Authors: Xu Haiyue , Wang Junyan , Deng Yue , Hou Fujun , Fu Yujuan , Chen Siyu , Zou Wei , Pan Dongli , Chen Baohui
Published: December 2022

Herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1), a representative of the family
Herpesviridae
, is a ubiquitous pathogen that can establish lifelong infections and widely affects human health. Viral infection is a dynamic process that involves many steps and interactions with various cellular structures, including host chromatin.
Calcium Promotes T6SS-Mediated Killing and Aggregation between Competing Symbionts
Authors: Speare Lauren , Jackson Aundre , Septer Alecia N.
Published: December 2022

Microbes deploy competitive mechanisms to gain access to resources such as nutrients or space within an ecological niche. Identifying when and where these strategies are employed can be challenging given the complexity and variability of most natural systems; therefore, studies evaluating specific cues that conditionally regulate interbacterial competition can inform the ecological context for such competition.