bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fatigue of short carbon fiber reinforced PEEK under compression: Influence of the load ratio and predictions from heat buildup measurements
Authors: Kwiatkowski Vanessa , Le Saux Matthieu , Le Saux Vincent , Leclercq Sylvain , Marco Yann
Published: March 2023

Few works investigate the fatigue of short fiber reinforced thermoplastics under cyclic compression. Furthermore, the heat buildup approach to quickly predict the fatigue lifetime of these materials has not yet been investigated for compression–compression loadings. This paper first describes an experimental protocol to perform well‐controlled cyclic compression tests without anti‐buckling device that may induced bias. The uniaxiality of the global loading is checked during the test based on kinematic and thermoelastic coupling field measurements. Then, the paper compares the results from fatigue and heat buildup tests performed on polyetheretherketone reinforced with 30 wt% of short carbon fibers for several load ratios. It is shown that the fatigue lifetime is higher in compression than in tension and depends on the compression load ratio. The heat buildup approach appears to be relevant to quickly predict the fatigue lifetime of the material for the different loading ratios studied, including compression–compression.
Response of macrophyte litter decomposition in global blue carbon ecosystems to climate change
Authors: Ouyang Xiaoguang , Kristensen Erik , Zimmer Martin , Thornber Carol , Yang Zhifeng , Lee Shing Yip
Published: March 2023

Blue carbon ecosystems (BCEs) are important nature‐based solutions for climate change‐mitigation. However, current debates question the reliability and contribution of BCEs under future climatic‐scenarios. The answer to this question depends on ecosystem processes driving carbon‐sequestration and ‐storage, such as primary production and decomposition, and their future rates. We performed a global meta‐analysis on litter decomposition rate constants (k) in BCEs and predicted changes in carbon release from 309 studies. The relationships between k and climatic factors were examined by extracting remote‐sensing data on air temperature, sea‐surface temperature, and precipitation aligning to the decomposition time of each experiment. We constructed global numerical models of litter decomposition to forecast k and carbon release under different scenarios. The current k averages at 27 ± 3 × 10−2 day−1 for macroalgae were higher than for seagrasses (1.7 ± 0.2 × 10−2 day−1), mangroves (1.6 ± 0.1 × 10−2 day−1) and tidal marshes (5.9 ± 0.5 × 10−3 day−1). Macrophyte k increased with both air temperature and precipitation in intertidal BCEs and with sea surface temperature for subtidal seagrasses. Above a temperature threshold for vascular plant litter at ~25°C and ~20°C for macroalgae, k drastically increased with increasing temperature. However, the direct effect of high temperatures on k are obscured by other factors in field experiments compared with laboratory experiments. We defined “fundamental” and “realized” temperature response to explain this effect. Based on relationships for realized temperature response, we predict that proportions of decomposed litter will increase by 0.9%–5% and 4.7%–28.8% by 2100 under low‐ (2°C) and high‐warming conditions (4°C) compared to 2020, respectively. Net litter carbon sinks in BCEs will increase due to higher increase in litter C production than in decomposition by 2100 compared to 2020 under RCP 8.5. We highlight that BCEs will play an increasingly important role in future climate change‐mitigation. Our findings can be leveraged for blue carbon accounting under future climate change scenarios.
Environmental gradualism explains variation in pollination systems of columnar cacti: Phylogenetic and trait evolution analyses
Authors: Freilij Damian , Larrea‐Alcazar Daniel , Lopez Ramiro Pablo , Velarde Simonini Fernando , Naoki Kazuya , Bessega Cecilia
Published: March 2023

Aim

The geographical dichotomy hypothesis (GDH) states several flowering plant groups have specialized pollination systems in tropical areas where resources are more reliable and pollinator communities tend to be more stable, than in extratropical areas. Our main goal was to understand the scope of the GDH and/or gradual environmental variation considering the evolutionary history of the pollination traits.

Location

Neotropical tropics and adjacent extratropics.

Major taxa studied

Columnar cacti.

Methods

Using a database composed of ~54 columnar cacti species (31.7% of the global columnar cactus species), four complex traits were analysed: pollination syndromes, reproductive systems, type of anthesis, and duration of anthesis. We conducted generalized linear models (GLMs), phylogenetic regressions, evolutionary trait optimization, and multivariate models with 19 bioclimatic variables and potential evapotranspiration.

Results

Weak phylogenetic signal was detected for all traits, giving consistent results between GLMs and phylogenetic regression analysis. The pollination syndrome and duration of anthesis varied with latitude, in contrast to the reproductive system and the type of anthesis. In the Southern Hemisphere, the pollinators were more diverse and the duration of anthesis was longer. Different evolutionary paths between hemispheres were detected and optimization showed a complex pattern in the evolution of traits, suggesting high homoplasy with multiple transformations by convergence and/or parallelism. The environmental models showed thermic seasonality may be at the core of the latitudinal variation of the pollination system.

Main conclusions

We did not detect a geographical dichotomy in pollination systems of the cacti, but rather a gradual change in different pollination attributes. Therefore, instead of a GDH, we propose an environmental gradient hypothesis (EGH). Environmental variables may be explaining the variation detected in pollination system traits by conditioning floral properties (morphology, phenology), diversity and distribution of pollinators, and/or coevolution occurrence. The complexity implied in these traits is consistent with high homoplasy levels and a differential evolutionary history between the hemispheres.
ACAGT‐007a, an anti‐cancer compound that modulates ERK MAPK signaling, induces nuclear enrichment of phosphorylated ERK in T3M4 pancreatic cancer cells
Authors: Khandakar Golam Iftakhar , Miyamoto Yoichi , Satoh Ryosuke , Kishimoto Kenta , Xie Mingzuo , Shih Mengyu , Takasaki Teruaki , Tanabe Genzoh , Oka Masahiro , Sugiura Reiko
Published: March 2023

The extracellular‐signal‐regulated‐kinase (ERK) signaling pathway is essential for cell proliferation and is frequently deregulated in human tumors such as pancreatic cancers. ACAGT‐007a (GT‐7), an anti‐cancer compound, stimulates ERK phosphorylation, thereby inducing growth inhibition and apoptosis in T3M4 pancreatic cancer cells. However, how GT‐7 stimulates ERK phosphorylation and induces apoptosis in ERK‐active T3M4 cells remains unclear. To look into the mechanism, we performed a spatiotemporal analysis of ERK phosphorylation mediated by GT‐7 in T3M4 cells. The immunoblotting showed that GT‐7 stimulates ERK phosphorylation within 1 h, which was more remarkable after 2 h. Importantly, apoptosis induction as evaluated by the cleaved Caspase‐3 was observed only after 2‐h incubation with GT‐7. The immunofluorescence staining revealed the enrichment of phosphorylated ERK (phospho‐ERK) in the nucleus upon 1‐h incubation with GT‐7. Fractionation experiments showed that GT‐7 increases phospho‐ERK levels in the cytoplasm within 1 h, whereas nuclear phospho‐ERK accumulation is observed after 2‐h incubation with GT‐7. MEK inhibition by U0126 significantly diminishes nuclear phospho‐ERK distribution and apoptosis induction stimulated by GT‐7. Thus, GT‐7 may initiate the induction of ERK phosphorylation in the cytoplasm, which leads to phospho‐ERK enrichment in the nucleus. This nuclear phospho‐ERK accumulation by GT‐7 precedes and may underlie apoptosis induction in T3M4.
Factors influencing self‐care behaviour in patients with heart failure: Grit as a behavioural support factor
Authors: Song Hyun Jin , Kim Hye Young , Park Sookkyoung , Lee Sun Hwa
Published: March 2023

Aims

This study aimed to examine the relationship between heart failure knowledge, self‐efficacy, social support, grit and self‐care behaviour in patients with heart failure and to identify factors associated with patients' self‐care behaviour.

Background

Most patients with heart failure are not as active in implementing self‐care behavioural practices as recommended by the guidelines.

Design

This descriptive cross‐sectional study was designed based on Bandura's Social Cognitive Theory.

Methods

This study included 138 patients who were diagnosed with heart failure in an outpatient department of cardiology at a tertiary hospital in Korea. Data were collected between July and October 2020 using a structured questionnaire and electronic medical records. Data were analysed using the SPSS/WIN 27.0 program.

Results

Grit had the strongest association with self‐care behaviour among patients with heart failure, followed by social support, self‐efficacy and heart failure knowledge. These variables accounted for approximately 52% of the variance in self‐care behaviour.

Conclusions

Health‐care professionals should assess patients' grit and develop patient‐tailored grit enhancement programmes. Based on the social cognitive theory, nursing intervention programmes that can simultaneously manage cognitive (knowledge and self‐efficacy), social and environmental (social support) and behavioural support (grit) factors should be developed and applied to nursing practices to promote self‐care.
Children's activity and diet behaviours in the summer holidays versus school year
Authors: Watson Amanda , Maher Carol , Golley Rebecca , Dumuid Dot , Manson Alexandra , Tomkinson Grant , Fraysse Francois , Olds Tim
Published: March 2023

Background

Evidence shows children gain more weight during the summer holidays versus the school year.

Objectives

To examine within‐child differences in activity and diet behaviours during the summer holidays versus the school year.

Methods

Children (mean age 9.4 years; 37% male) wore accelerometers (GENEActiv; n = 133), reported activities (Multimedia Activity Recall for Children and Adolescents; n = 133) and parents reported child diet (n = 133) at five timepoints over 2 years capturing school and summer holiday values. Mixed‐effects models were used to compare school and summer holiday behaviours.

Results

Children spent less time in moderate‐ to vigorous‐physical activity (−12 min/day; p = 0.001) and sleep (−12 min/day; p < 0.001) and more time sedentary (+27 min/day; p < 0.001) during summer holidays versus the school year. Screentime (+70 min/day; p < 0.001), domestic/social activities (+43 min/day; p = <0.001), self‐care (+24 min/day; p < 0.001), passive transport (+22 min/day; p = 0.001) and quiet time (+16 min/day; p = 0.012) were higher during the summer holidays, compensating for less time in school‐related activities (−164 min/day; p < 0.001). Diet quality was lower (−4 points; p < 0.001) and children consumed fewer serves of fruit (−0.4 serves; p < 0.001) during the summer holidays versus the school year.

Conclusions

Children are displaying poorer activity and diet behaviours during the summer holidays, which may contribute to accelerated weight gain over the holiday period.
A review of policies and coverage of seasonal influenza vaccination programs in the WHO Eastern Mediterranean Region
Authors: Attia Rania , Abubakar Abdinasir , Bresee Joseph , Mere Osama , Khan Wasiq
Published: March 2023

Background

Although there has been an effective seasonal influenza vaccine available for more than 60 years, influenza continues to circulate and cause illness. The Eastern Mediterranean Region (EMR) is very diverse in health systems capacities, capabilities, and efficiencies, which affect the performance of services, especially vaccination, including seasonal influenza vaccination.

Aims

The aim of this study is to provide a comprehensive overview on country‐specific influenza vaccination policies, vaccine delivery, and coverage in EMR.

Materials and Methods

We have analyzed data from a regional seasonal influenza survey conducted in 2022, Joint Reporting Form (JRF), and verified their validity by the focal points. We also compared our results with those of the regional seasonal influenza survey conducted in 2016.

Results

Fourteen countries (64%) had reported having a national seasonal influenza vaccine policy. About (44%) countries recommended influenza vaccine for all SAGE recommended target groups. Up to 69% of countries reported that COVID‐19 had an impact on influenza vaccine supply in the country, with most of them (82%) reporting increases in procurement due to COVID‐19.

Discussion

The situation of seasonal influenza vaccination in EMR is varied, with some countries having well established programs while others having no policy or program; these variances may be due to resources inequity, political, and socioeconomic dissimilarities. Few countries have reported wide vaccination coverage over time with no clear trend of improvement.

Conclusion

We suggest supporting countries to develop a roadmap for influenza vaccine uptake and utilization, assessment of barriers, and burden of influenza, including measuring the economic burden to enhance vaccine acceptance.
The Western and Chinese exercise training for blood pressure reduction among hypertensive patients: An overview of systematic reviews
Authors: Tsoi Kelvin , Lam Amy , Tran Joshua , Hao Ziyu , Yiu Karen , Chia Yook‐Chin , Turana Yuda , Siddique Saulat , Zhang Yuqing , Cheng Hao‐Min , Wang Ji‐Guang , Kario Kazuomi ,   the HOPE Asia Network
Published: March 2023

Hypertension remains the world's leading cause of premature death. Interventions such as exercise, diet modification, and pharmacological therapy remain the mainstay of hypertension treatment. Numerous systematic reviews and meta‐analyses demonstrated the effectiveness of western exercises, such as aerobic exercise and resistance exercise, in reducing blood pressure in hypertensive patients. There is recently emerging evidence of blood pressure reduction with Chinese exercises, such as Tai Chi, Baduanjin, and Qigong. The current overview of systematic reviews aims to evaluate the quality and descriptively summarize the evidence for the effectiveness of western and Chinese exercises for hypertension management. Thirty‐nine systematic reviews were included in this overview, with 15 of those being on Chinese exercise. Evidence suggests that exercise training, regardless of Western or Chinese exercise, generally reduced both systolic and diastolic blood pressure. High‐intensity intermittent training did not further reduce blood pressure when compared to moderate‐intensity continuous training. Conflicting results on the effectiveness of blood pressure reduction when comparing Chinese and Western exercise training were observed. This suggests the comparable effectiveness of Chinese exercise training, in particularly Tai Chi, to general or aerobic exercise training in terms of blood pressure reduction. The Chinese exercise modality and intensity may be more suitable for the middle‐aged and elderly population.
The association of peripheral neuropathy detected by monofilament testing with risk of falls and fractures in older adults
Authors: Hicks Caitlin W. , Wang Dan , Daya Natalie , Juraschek Stephen P. , Matsushita Kunihiro , Windham B. Gwen , Selvin Elizabeth
Published: March 2023

Background

In persons with diabetes, annual screening for peripheral neuropathy (PN) using monofilament testing is the standard of care. However, PN detected by monofilament testing is common in older adults, even in the absence of diabetes. We aimed to assess the association of PN with risk of falls and fractures in older adults.

Methods

We included participants in the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) Study who underwent monofilament testing at visit 6 (2016–2017). Incident falls and fractures were identified based on ICD‐9 and ICD‐10 codes from active surveillance of all hospitalizations and linkage to Medicare claims. We used Cox models to assess the association of PN with falls and fractures (combined and as separate outcomes) after adjusting for demographics and risk factors for falls.

Results

There were 3617 ARIC participants (mean age 79.4 [SD 4.7] years, 40.8% male, and 21.4% Black adults), of whom 1242 (34.3%) had PN based on monofilament testing. During a median follow‐up of 2.5 years, 371 participants had a documented fall, and 475 participants had a documented fracture. The incidence rate (per 1000 person‐years) for falls or fractures for participants with PN versus those without PN was 111.1 versus 74.3 (p < 0.001). The age‐, sex‐, and race‐adjusted 3‐year cumulative incidence of incident fall or fracture was significantly higher for participants with PN versus those without PN (26.5% vs. 18.4%, p < 0.001). After adjusting for demographics, PN remained independently associated with falls and fractures (HR 1.48, 95% CI 1.26, 1.74). Results were similar for models including traditional risk factors for falls, when falls and fractures were analyzed as separate outcomes, and after adjustment for competing risk of death.

Conclusions

PN, as measured by monofilament testing, is common in older adults and associated with risk of falls and fracture. Screening with monofilament testing may be warranted to identify older adults at high risk for falls.
Sun exposure, a relevant exposome factor in acne patients and how photoprotection can improve outcomes
Authors: Piquero‐Casals J. , Morgado‐Carrasco D. , Rozas‐Muñoz E. , Mir‐Bonafé J. F. , Trullàs C. , Jourdan E. , Piquero‐Martin J. , Zouboulis C. C. , Krutmann J.
Published: March 2023

Background

Acne pathophysiology includes a complex interaction among inflammatory mediators, hyperseborrhea, alteration of keratinization and follicular colonization by Propionibacterium acnes.

Aims

To describe the impact of the exposome on acne and how photoprotection can improve outcomes.

Methods

A narrative review of the literature was carried out; searches with Google Scholar and Pubmed from January 1992 to November 2022 were performed. The keywords used were “acne,” “sunscreens,” “photoprotection,” “cosmetics,” “cosmeceuticals,” “pathogenesis,” “etiology,” “exposome,” “sunlight,” “stress,” “lack of sleep,” “diet,” “postinflammatory hyperpigmentation,” “pollution,” “exposome,” “ultraviolet radiation,” and “visible light.”

Results

Environmental factors such as solar radiation, air pollution, tobacco consumption, psychological stress, diverse microorganisms, nutrition, among others, can trigger or worsen acne. Solar radiation can temporarily improve lesions. However, it can induce proinflammatory and profibrotic responses, and produce post‐inflammatory hyperpigmentation and/or post‐inflammatory erythema. While photoprotection is widely recommended to acne patients, only four relevant studies were found. Sunscreens can significantly improve symptomatology or enhance treatment and can prevent post‐inflammatory hyperpigmentation. Furthermore, they can provide camouflage and improve quality of life. Based on acne pathogenesis, optimal sunscreens should have emollient, antioxidant and sebum controlling properties.

Conclusions

The exposome and solar radiation can trigger or worsen acne. UV light can induce post‐inflammatory hyperpigmentation/erythema, and can initiate flares. The use of specifically formulated sunscreens could enhance adherence to topical or systemic therapy, camouflage lesions (tinted sunscreens), decrease inflammation, and reduce the incidence of post‐inflammatory hyperpigmentation/erythema.
Perceptions of peritonitis risk, prevention, diagnosis and stigma: Findings from a mixed methods study with patients and relatives using peritoneal dialysis
Authors: Baillie Jessica , Gill Paul , Courtenay Molly
Published: March 2023

Background

Peritonitis is the main treatment‐related complication of peritoneal dialysis and a primary concern for patients and their relatives. Therefore, understanding their perceptions of peritonitis is important.

Objectives

To explore patients' and relatives' perceptions of peritoneal dialysis‐associated peritonitis risk, prevention measures and experiences of diagnosis, and experience of perceived stigma.

Design

A sequential mixed methods study design was used, including a questionnaire and semi‐structured interviews.

Participants

Patients using peritoneal dialysis and relatives (n = 75) from six National Health Service organisations from the United Kingdom.

Measurements

A structured questionnaire was administered with patients and relatives (n = 75) using peritoneal dialysis; data were analysed using descriptive statistics. Thirty questionnaire respondents were then purposively sampled and interviewed in‐depth; data were analysed thematically. Data were collected 2017−2018. Ethical and governance approvals were gained.

Results

Qualitative and quantitative analyses were integrated and three themes presented:

Perceptions of risk: participants assessed their risk of developing peritonitis and possible implications on their health and relatives. Participants felt greatly responsible for preventing infection.

Preventing peritonitis: participants reported similar and some differing measures to minimise their risk of developing peritonitis. Participants wanted to be seen as “clean”.

Diagnosis of peritonitis: peritonitis diagnosis was embarrassing and stigmatising for many individuals. This was influenced by the response of healthcare professionals and the cause of peritonitis.

Conclusions

It is important that healthcare professionals are aware of how responsible patients and relatives feel about preventing peritonitis, the emotional effect of this responsibility and crucially the impact this may have on seeking help.
PHOSPHORUS‐STARVATION TOLERANCE 1 (OsPSTOL1) is prevalent in upland rice and enhances root growth and hastens low phosphate signaling in wheat
Authors: Kettenburg Alek T. , Lopez Miguel A. , Yogendra Kalenahalli , Prior Matthew J. , Rose Teresa , Bimson Sabrina , Heuer Sigrid , Roy Stuart J. , Bailey‐Serres Julia
Published: March 2023

PHOSPHORUS‐STARVATION TOLERANCE 1 (OsPSTOL1) is a variably present gene that benefits crown root growth and phosphorus (P) sufficiency in rice (Oryza sativa). To explore the ecophysiological importance of this gene, we performed a biogeographic survey of landraces and cultivars, confirming that functional OsPSTOL1 alleles prevail in low nutrient and drought‐prone rainfed ecosystems, whereas loss‐of‐function and absence haplotypes predominate in control‐irrigated paddy varieties of east Asia. An evolutionary history analysis of OsPSTOL1 and related genes in cereal, determined it and other genes are kinase‐only domain derivatives of membrane‐associated receptor like kinases. Finally, to evaluate the potential value of this kinase of unknown function in another Gramineae, wheat (Triticum aestivum) lines overexpressing OsPSTOL1 were evaluated under field and controlled low P conditions. OsPSTOL1 enhances growth, crown root number, and overall root plasticity under low P in wheat. Survey of root and shoot crown transcriptomes at two developmental stages identifies transcription factors that are differentially regulated in OsPSTOL1 wheat that are similarly controlled by the gene in rice. In wheat, OsPSTOL1 alters the timing and amplitude of regulators of root development in dry soils and hastens induction of the core P‐starvation response. OsPSTOL1 and related genes may aid more sustainable cultivation of cereal crops.
Incidence of cytomegalovirus DNAemia in pediatric kidney, liver, and heart transplant recipients: Efficacy and risk factors associated with failure of weight‐based dosed valganciclovir prophylaxis
Authors: Liverman Rochelle , Serluco Anastacia , Nance Gwen , George Roshan , Rodriguez Dellys Soler , Deshpande Shriprasad , Mao Chad , Garro Rouba , Yildirim Inci
Published: March 2023

Background

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) is associated with morbidity and mortality in solid organ transplant recipients (SOTR). Valganciclovir (VGC) is extensively used for prophylaxis. Optimal dosing in children, risk factors for failure, and the impact of dose adjustments on CMV DNAemia is not well established.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study of pediatric SOTR transplanted between 2010–2018 evaluated the epidemiology of CMV DNAemia and used Cox‐regression to assess the risk factors for CMV DNAemia within one‐year following SOTR.

Results

In 393 pediatric SOTR (heart [96, 24.4%], kidney [180, 45.6%], liver [117, 29.8%]; median age 9.5 ± 0.3 years), overall CMV DNAemia incidence was 6.6/10 000 days (95%CI 5.1/10 000–7.9/10 000) and varied by organ groups: heart 8.2/10 000 days (95%CI 4.9/10 000–11.4/10 000), kidney 5.8/10 000 days (95%CI 3.9/10 000–7.8/10 000), liver 6.2/10 000 days (95%CI 3.7/10 000–8.7/10 000). CMV DNAemia was detected in 75 of 275 (27.2%) patients who received prophylaxis (40 cases occurred during prophylaxis and 35 occurred after completion of prophylaxis). The median VGC dose given according to institutional weight‐based algorithm was approximately 1.5‐fold lower than the manufacturer‐recommended dose. This discordance was more prominent at younger age groups (3.2‐fold lower in <2‐year‐old [100 mg versus 325 mg], 2.5‐fold lower in <6‐year‐old [200 mg versus 447 mg]). Dose reduction due to adverse events was an independent risk factor for breakthrough CMV DNAemia (hazard ratio 2.2, 95%CI 1.2–3.8) among patients with similar age, CMV risk stratification, starting VGC dose, immunosuppressive therapy, and organ group.

Conclusion

CMV events occurred while on VGC prophylaxis. Weight‐based VGC may prevent supratherapeutic VGC exposure especially in younger children. Dose reduction of VGC prophylaxis for adverse event management places patients at an increased risk for CMV DNAemia suggesting other agents with fewer adverse effects should be considered and need to be studied in children.
Transient photocapacitance spectroscopy of deep-levels in (001) β-Ga2O3
Authors: Fenda Florena Fenfen , Traoré Aboulaye , Sakurai Takeaki
Published: March 2023

Defect levels in (001) β-Ga2O3 are investigated using transient photocapacitance (TPC) spectroscopy. For sub-band photon energies in the range of 1.13–3.10 eV, the TPC signal shows broad optical absorption at room temperature. Using the theoretical Pässler model, deep-level states at E T = 1.15 ± 0.07 eV (Trap 1) and E T = 1.69 ± 0.41 eV (Trap 2) below the conduction bands are demonstrated. The Franck–Condon energies ( D F C) of Trap 1 and Trap 2 are 0.26 ± 0.11 and 0.66 ± 0.55 eV, respectively. TPC measurements have been performed at temperatures ranging from 30 to 360 K. From 150 to 360 K, the TPC signal of Trap 1 decreases as the temperature increases. The decrease in the TPC signal of Trap 1 agrees with the thermal quenching model, and a thermal activation energy of 156 meV is estimated. Moreover, the effective phonon energy of β-Ga2O3 has been extracted. From 30 to 360 K, the effective phonon energy is in the range of 85–126 meV.
Measurements and model of UV-induced oxidation of aluminum
Authors: Berg Robert F. , Tarrio Charles , Lucatorto Thomas B.
Published: March 2023

We present measurements and a model of aluminum oxidation induced by ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Spots of oxide were grown by focusing synchrotron radiation onto a polycrystalline aluminum membrane in the presence of water vapor at pressures from 3 × 10−8 to 1 × 10−4 mbar (3 × 10−6 to 1 × 10−2 Pa). The UV radiation passed through a sapphire (Al2O3) window, which ensured that the UV interacted with only the aluminum metal and not the oxide overlayer. The oxide profile of each spot was then determined by measuring the membrane's transmission at a wavelength of 17.5 nm. The model combined descriptions of photoemission from the Al metal, electron-phonon scattering in the oxide, Al3+ ion transport in the oxide, and the adsorption and ionization of H2O on the oxide surface. It also accounted for UV-induced desorption of H2O and the effect of the Al3+ ion flux on the surface reactions. The model's five free parameters were fit to the laboratory measurements of UV-induced oxidation. Then, using those values, the model was used to describe and understand the oxidation of similar aluminum membranes that were used to filter extreme ultraviolet on the Solar Dynamics Observatory, a sun-observing satellite. This understanding will help prevent similar problems on future satellites. These results are the first experimental confirmation of a model of UV-induced oxidation.
Dopamine error signal to actively cope with lack of expected reward
Authors: Ishino Seiya , Kamada Taisuke , Sarpong Gideon A. , Kitano Julia , Tsukasa Reo , Mukohira Hisa , Sun Fangmiao , Li Yulong , Kobayashi Kenta , Naoki Honda , Oishi Naoya , Ogawa Masaaki
Published: March 2023

To obtain more of a particular uncertain reward, animals must learn to actively overcome the lack of reward and adjust behavior to obtain it again. The neural mechanisms underlying such coping with reward omission remain unclear. Here, we developed a task in rats to monitor active behavioral switch toward the next reward after no reward. We found that some dopamine neurons in the ventral tegmental area exhibited increased responses to unexpected reward omission and decreased responses to unexpected reward, following the opposite responses of the well-known dopamine neurons that signal reward prediction error (RPE). The dopamine increase reflected in the nucleus accumbens correlated with behavioral adjustment to actively overcome unexpected no reward. We propose that these responses signal error to actively cope with lack of expected reward. The dopamine error signal thus cooperates with the RPE signal, enabling adaptive and robust pursuit of uncertain reward to ultimately obtain more reward.
Wild macaques challenge the origin of intentional tool production
Authors: Proffitt Tomos , Reeves Jonathan S. , Braun David R. , Malaivijitnond Suchinda , Luncz Lydia V.
Published: March 2023

Intentionally produced sharp-edged stone flakes and flaked pieces are our primary evidence for the emergence of technology in our lineage. This evidence is used to decipher the earliest hominin behavior, cognition, and subsistence strategies. Here, we report on the largest lithic assemblage associated with a primate foraging behavior undertaken by long-tailed macaques (Macaca fascicularis). This behavior results in a landscape-wide record of flaked stone material, almost indistinguishable from early hominin flaked pieces and flakes. It is now clear that the production of unintentional conchoidal sharp-edged flakes can result from tool-assisted foraging in nonhominin primates. Comparisons with Plio-Pleistocene lithic assemblages, dating from 3.3 to 1.56 million years ago, show that flakes produced by macaques fall within the technological range of artifacts made by early hominins. In the absence of behavioral observations, the assemblage produced by monkeys would likely be identified as anthropogenic in origin and interpreted as evidence of intentional tool production.
Anomalous topological waves in strongly amorphous scattering networks
Authors: Zhang Zhe , Delplace Pierre , Fleury Romain
Published: March 2023

Topological insulators are crystalline materials that have revolutionized our ability to control wave transport. They provide us with unidirectional channels that are immune to obstacles, defects, or local disorder and can even survive some random deformations of their crystalline structures. However, they always break down when the level of disorder or amorphism gets too large, transitioning to a topologically trivial Anderson insulating phase. We demonstrate a two-dimensional amorphous topological regime that survives arbitrarily strong levels of amorphism. We implement it for electromagnetic waves in a nonreciprocal scattering network and experimentally demonstrate the existence of unidirectional edge transport in the strong amorphous limit. This edge transport is shown to be mediated by an anomalous edge state whose topological origin is evidenced by direct topological invariant measurements. Our findings extend the reach of topological physics to a class of systems in which strong amorphism can induce, enhance, and guarantee the topological edge transport instead of impeding it.
The beehive of the future is a robot socially interacting with honeybees
Authors: Romano Donato
Published: March 2023

A robotic beehive may unveil insights into honeybee collective behavior and sustain the colony in harsh weather.
Inhibition of a signaling modality within the gp130 receptor enhances tissue regeneration and mitigates osteoarthritis
Authors: Shkhyan Ruzanna , Flynn Candace , Lamoure Emma , Sarkar Arijita , Van Handel Benjamin , Li Jinxiu , York Jesse , Banks Nicholas , Van der Horst Robert , Liu Nancy Q. , Lee Siyoung , Bajaj Paul , Vadivel Kanagasabai , Harn Hans I.-Chen , Tassey Jade , Lozito Thomas , Lieberman Jay R. , Chuong Cheng-Ming , Hurtig Mark S. , Evseenko Denis
Published: March 2023

Adult mammals are incapable of multitissue regeneration, and augmentation of this potential may shift current therapeutic paradigms. We found that a common co-receptor of interleukin 6 (IL-6) cytokines, glycoprotein 130 (gp130), serves as a major nexus integrating various context-specific signaling inputs to either promote regenerative outcomes or aggravate disease progression. Via genetic and pharmacological experiments in vitro and in vivo, we demonstrated that a signaling tyrosine 814 (Y814) within gp130 serves as a major cellular stress sensor. Mice with constitutively inactivated Y814 (F814) were resistant to surgically induced osteoarthritis as reflected by reduced loss of proteoglycans, reduced synovitis, and synovial fibrosis. The F814 mice also exhibited enhanced regenerative, not reparative, responses after wounding in the skin. In addition, pharmacological modulation of gp130 Y814 upstream of the SRC and MAPK circuit by a small molecule, R805, elicited a protective effect on tissues after injury. Topical administration of R805 on mouse skin wounds resulted in enhanced hair follicle neogenesis and dermal regeneration. Intra-articular administration of R805 to rats after medial meniscal tear and to canines after arthroscopic meniscal release markedly mitigated the appearance of osteoarthritis. Single-cell sequencing data demonstrated that genetic and pharmacological modulation of Y814 resulted in attenuation of inflammatory gene signature as visualized by the anti-inflammatory macrophage and nonpathological fibroblast subpopulations in the skin and joint tissue after injury. Together, our study characterized a molecular mechanism that, if manipulated, enhances the intrinsic regenerative capacity of tissues through suppression of a proinflammatory milieu and prevents pathological outcomes in injury and disease.
Desmosomal protein degradation as an underlying cause of arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy
Authors: Tsui Hoyee , van Kampen Sebastiaan Johannes , Han Su Ji , Meraviglia Viviana , van Ham Willem B. , Casini Simona , van der Kraak Petra , Vink Aryan , Yin Xiaoke , Mayr Manuel , Bossu Alexandre , Marchal Gerard A. , Monshouwer-Kloots Jantine , Eding Joep , Versteeg Danielle , de Ruiter Hesther , Bezstarosti Karel , Groeneweg Judith , Klaasen Sjoerd J. , van Laake Linda W. , Demmers Jeroen A.A. , Kops Geert J.P.L. , Mummery Christine L. , van Veen Toon A.B. , Remme Carol Ann , Bellin Milena , van Rooij Eva
Published: March 2023

Arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy (ACM) is an inherited progressive cardiac disease. Many patients with ACM harbor mutations in desmosomal genes, predominantly in plakophilin-2 (
PKP2
). Although the genetic basis of ACM is well characterized, the underlying disease-driving mechanisms remain unresolved. Explanted hearts from patients with ACM had less PKP2 compared with healthy hearts, which correlated with reduced expression of desmosomal and adherens junction (AJ) proteins. These proteins were also disorganized in areas of fibrotic remodeling. In vitro data from human-induced pluripotent stem cell–derived cardiomyocytes and microtissues carrying the heterozygous
PKP2 c.2013delC
pathogenic mutation also displayed impaired contractility. Knockin mice carrying the equivalent heterozygous
Pkp2 c.1755delA
mutation recapitulated changes in desmosomal and AJ proteins and displayed cardiac dysfunction and fibrosis with age. Global proteomics analysis of 4-month-old heterozygous
Pkp2 c.1755delA
hearts indicated involvement of the ubiquitin-proteasome system (UPS) in ACM pathogenesis. Inhibition of the UPS in mutant mice increased area composita proteins and improved calcium dynamics in isolated cardiomyocytes. Additional proteomics analyses identified lysine ubiquitination sites on the desmosomal proteins, which were more ubiquitinated in mutant mice. In summary, we show that a plakophilin-2 mutation can lead to decreased desmosomal and AJ protein expression through a UPS-dependent mechanism, which preceded cardiac remodeling. These findings suggest that targeting protein degradation and improving desmosomal protein stability may be a potential therapeutic strategy for the treatment of ACM.
Draft Genome Sequence of Pectobacterium brasiliense Isolated from Potato in South Africa
Authors: Rauwane Molemi Evelyn , Mchunu Nokuthula Peace , Pierneef Rian , Moloto Valery Mamogwasha , Goszczynska Teresa , Sibisi Phumzile , Ntushelo Khayalethu
Published: March 2023

This study reports a draft genome of a phytopathogenic bacterium,
Pectobacterium brasiliense
, isolated from potato in South Africa. The total reported length of the genome is 4,897,858 bp, contained in 172 contigs with 4,378 genes. The GC content of the genome is 51.6%.
Planktonic and Biofilm-Derived Pseudomonas aeruginosa Outer Membrane Vesicles Facilitate Horizontal Gene Transfer of Plasmid DNA
Authors: Johnston Ella L. , Zavan Lauren , Bitto Natalie J. , Petrovski Steve , Hill Andrew F. , Kaparakis-Liaskos Maria
Published: March 2023

Bacterial membrane vesicles (BMVs) mediate interbacterial communication, and their ability to package DNA specifically contributes to biofilm formation, antibiotic resistance, and HGT between bacteria. However, the ability of
P. aeruginosa
OMVs to mediate HGT has not yet been demonstrated.
Case–control study of serum vitamin D concentrations in hospitalised patients with COVID-19 and hospitalised controls suffering with respiratory tract infections of differing aetiology
Authors: Elmi Zakaria Ali Ibrahim , Sighakoli Sameer , Tetteh John , Zand Nazanin
Published: March 2023

This study explored the prevalence of low serum vitamin D in patients admitted with acute respiratory tract infections (ARTIs) such as COVID-19. This study investigated whether patients with COVID-19 had lower serum vitamin D compared with patients with ARTIs of other aetiology. A case–control study was performed with cases of COVID-19 and controls of non-COVID-19 ARTIs. Patients were enrolled from a single general medical ward in a secondary care hospital between 15 April 2020 and 15 May 2020. Exclusion criteria were an oxygen requirement of >8 L/min. Data collected included serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentration, venous plasma glucose concentration and heamoglobin A1c. Outcomes measured were length of hospital stay, deaths, the need for high dependency and intensive care unit involvement. A total of 60 patients of five ethnic groups were enrolled, 85% (n=46) were of White-British ethnicity. The data analysis is based on these 46 patients of which 24 were non-COVID-19 patients with ARTI and 22 were patients with COVID-19. Overall, 80% of the study population had a serum vitamin D concentration below 50 nmol/L with median concentrations of 30 nmol/L and 35 nmol/L for patients with COVID-19 and non-COVID-19 ARTIs respectively. A Mann-Whitney sign-ranked test with respect to serum vitamin D concentration found no statistically significant difference between cases and controls, p=0.09. There was no significant difference in the length of stay, body mass index and rates of various comorbidities such as diabetes mellitus (DM), hypertension and lung disease in both study groups. However, DM was found to be associated with lower serum vitamin D concentrations. The results of this study support published literature showing an association between low serum vitamin D and ARTIs including COVID-19. However, this study did not identify patients with COVID-19 to have a statistically significant lower serum vitamin D concentration than non-COVID-19 patients with ARTI.
A mechanism by which gut microbiota elevates permeability and inflammation in obese/diabetic mice and human gut
Authors: Mishra Sidharth P , Wang Bo , Jain Shalini , Ding Jingzhong , Rejeski Jared , Furdui Cristina M , Kitzman Dalane W , Taraphder Subhash , Brechot Christian , Kumar Ambuj , Yadav Hariom
Published: March 2023

Objective

Ample evidence exists for the role of abnormal gut microbiota composition and increased gut permeability (‘leaky gut’) in chronic inflammation that commonly co-occurs in the gut in both obesity and diabetes, yet the detailed mechanisms involved in this process have remained elusive.

Design

In this study, we substantiate the causal role of the gut microbiota by use of faecal conditioned media along with faecal microbiota transplantation. Using untargeted and comprehensive approaches, we discovered the mechanism by which the obese microbiota instigates gut permeability, inflammation and abnormalities in glucose metabolism.

Results

We demonstrated that the reduced capacity of the microbiota from both obese mice and humans to metabolise ethanolamine results in ethanolamine accumulation in the gut, accounting for induction of intestinal permeability. Elevated ethanolamine increased the expression of microRNA-miR-101a-3pby enhancing ARID3a binding on the miR promoter. IncreasedmiR-101a-3pdecreased the stability of zona occludens-1 (Zo1) mRNA, which in turn, weakened intestinal barriers and induced gut permeability, inflammation and abnormalities in glucose metabolism. Importantly, restoring ethanolamine-metabolising activity in gut microbiota using a novel probiotic therapy reduced elevated gut permeability, inflammation and abnormalities in glucose metabolism by correcting the ARID3a/miR-101a/Zo1axis.

Conclusion

Overall, we discovered that the reduced capacity of obese microbiota to metabolise ethanolamine instigates gut permeability, inflammation and glucose metabolic dysfunctions, and restoring ethanolamine-metabolising capacity by a novel probiotic therapy reverses these abnormalities.

Trial registration number

NCT02869659andNCT03269032.
PSMD3gene mutations cause pathological myopia
Authors: Chen Jing , Lian Ping , Zhao Xiujuan , Li Jun , Yu Xiling , Huang Xia , Chen Shida , Lu Lin
Published: March 2023

Purpose

Genetic factors play a prominent role in the pathogenesis of pathological myopia (PM). However, the exact genetic mechanism of PM remains unclear. This study aimed to determine the candidate mutation of PM in a Chinese family and explore the potential mechanism.

Methods

We performed exome sequencing and Sanger sequencing in a Chinese family and 179 sporadic PM cases. The gene expression in human tissue was investigated by RT-quantitative real-time PCR (RT-qPCR) and immunofluorescence. Cell apoptotic rates were tested by annexin V-APC/7AAD and flow cytometry.Psmd3knock-in mice with point mutation were generated for measuring myopia-related parameters.

Results

We screened a novelPSMD3variant (c.689T>C; p.F230S) in a Chinese family with PM, and another rare mutation (c.1015C>A; p.L339M) was identified in 179 unrelated cases with PM. RT-qPCR and immunofluorescence confirmed the expression of PSMD3 in human eye tissue. Mutation ofPSMD3decreased the mRNA and protein expression, causing apoptosis of human retinal pigment epithelial cells. In in vivo experiments, the axial length (AL) of mutant mice increased significantly compared with that of wild-type mice (p<0.001).

Conclusions

A new potential pathogenic gene,PSMD3, in a PM family was identified, and it may be involved in the elongation of AL and the development of PM.
Randomised controlled trial for the titration of oral corticosteroids using markers of inflammation in severe asthma
Authors: Ramsahai J Michael , Simpson Jodie L , Cook Alistair , Gibson Peter G , McDonald Vanessa , Grainge Christopher , Heaney Liam G , Wark Peter AB
Published: March 2023

Introduction

Biomarkers are used to select biologic therapies for patients with severe asthma, but not to regularly adjust therapy, especially oral corticosteroids (OCS).

Objective

Our goal was to test the efficacy of an algorithm to guide the titration of OCS using blood eosinophil count and fraction of exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO) levels.

Design, participants, interventions and setting

This proof-of-concept prospective randomised controlled trial assigned adult participants with severe uncontrolled asthma (n=32) to biomarker-based management (BBM) where OCS dose was adjusted based on a composite biomarker score comprised of blood eosinophil count and FeNO, or a standard best practice (SBP) arm. The study was conducted at the Hunter Medical Research Institute, Newcastle, Australia. Participants were recruited from the local Severe Asthma Clinic and were blinded to their study allocation.

Main outcome

The coprimary outcomes were number of severe exacerbations and time to first severe exacerbation assessed over 12 months.

Results

There was a longer median time to first severe exacerbation with BBM, although not significant (295 vs 123 days, Adj. HR: 0.714; 95% CI: 0.25 to 2.06; p=0.533). The relative risk of a severe exacerbation in BBM (n=17) vs SBP (n=15) was 0.88 (Adj.; 95% CI: 0.47 to 1.62; p=0.675) with a mean exacerbation rate per year of 1.2 and 2.0, respectively. There was a significant reduction in the proportion of patients requiring an emergency department (ED) visit using BBM (OR 0.09, 95% CI: 0.01 to 0.91; p=0.041). There was no difference in the cumulative OCS dose used between the two groups.

Conclusion

A treatment algorithm to adjust OCS using blood eosinophil count and FeNO is feasible in a clinical setting and resulted in a reduced odds of an ED visit. This warrants further study to optimise the use of OCS in the future.

Trial registration number

This trial was registered with the Australia and New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ACTRN12616001015437).
ABRASIVE FLOW FINISHING OF FDM PRINTED EXTRUSION DIE INSERT PATTERN USING NOVEL AFM FIXTURE WITH MANDREL GUIDE
Authors: HASHMI ABDUL WAHAB , MALI HARLAL SINGH , MEENA ANOJ , GUPTA NAKUL , AHMAD SHADAB , SAXENA KULDEEP K. , MALIK VINAYAK
Published: March 2023

The staircase/stair-stepping effect causes wrapping, shrinkage, and surface roughness in additively manufactured (AM) parts. Consequently, abrasive flow finishing (AFF) or abrasive flow machining (AFM) may be employed to improve the AM part surface finish. This study developed an environmentally friendly AFM media using rice husk ash as base material, waste vegetable oil as a liquid synthesizer, and natural additives, i.e. glycerin. The new newly developed rice husk ash-based AFM media (HSAFM) characterization was done using Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopic method and thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). AFM medium viscosity was optimized using a Taguchi design ([Formula: see text]). These FDM-printed extrusions die inserts were finished using optimized AFM media in a one-way AFM system. A new AFM fixture with a mandrel guide was developed to direct media flow inside the die cavity to ensure uniform finishing. Experimental research has been done on finishing the FDM-printed extrusion die insert pattern using the Box–Behnken Design (BBD)-based experimental design of the response surface methodology (RSM) technique. The surface roughness Ra [Formula: see text]28.16 [Formula: see text]m was improved by 96% with the following process parameters: media viscosity of 60 Pa/s, the layer thickness of 0.3, and 90 min of finishing time.