bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Metabolic engineering of the serine/glycine network as a means to improve the nitrogen content of crops
Authors: Casatejada‐Anchel Ruben , Torres‐Moncho Alejandro , Anoman Armand D. , Budhagatapalli Nagaveni , Pérez‐Lorences Ester , Alcántara‐Enguídanos Andrea , Rosa‐Téllez Sara , de Souza Leonardo Perez , Kumlehn Jochen , Fernie Alisdair R. , Muñoz‐Bertomeu Jesús , Ros Roc
Published: October 2024

In plants, L‐serine (Ser) biosynthesis occurs through various pathways and is highly dependent on the atmospheric CO2 concentration, especially in C3 species, due to the association of the Glycolate Pathway of Ser Biosynthesis (GPSB) with photorespiration. Characterization of a second plant Ser pathway, the Phosphorylated Pathway of Ser Biosynthesis (PPSB), revealed that it is at the crossroads of carbon, nitrogen, and sulphur metabolism. The PPSB comprises three sequential reactions catalysed by 3‐phosphoglycerate dehydrogenase (PGDH), 3‐phosphoSer aminotransferase (PSAT) and 3‐phosphoSer phosphatase (PSP). PPSB was overexpressed in plants exhibiting two different modes of photosynthesis: Arabidopsis (C3 metabolism), and maize (C4 metabolism), under ambient (aCO2) and elevated (eCO2) CO2 growth conditions. Overexpression in Arabidopsis of the PGDH1 gene alone or PGDH1, PSAT1 and PSP1 in combination increased the Ser levels but also the essential amino acids threonine (aCO2), isoleucine, leucine, lysine, phenylalanine, threonine and methionine (eCO2) compared to the wild‐type. These increases translated into higher protein levels. Likewise, starch levels were also increased in the PPSB‐overexpressing lines. In maize, PPSB‐deficient lines were obtained by targeting PSP1 using Cas9 endonuclease. We concluded that the expression of PPSB in maize male gametophyte is required for viable pollen development. Maize lines overexpressing the AtPGDH1 gene only displayed higher protein levels but not starch at both aCO2 and eCO2 conditions, this translated into a significant rise in the nitrogen/carbon ratio. These results suggest that metabolic engineering of PPSB in crops could enhance nitrogen content, particularly under upcoming eCO2 conditions where the activity of GPSB is limited.
Relationship Between Primary School Teachers’ COVID‐19 Fear Levels and COVID‐19 Vaccine Attitudes After the Start of Face‐to‐Face Education During the Pandemic Period: A School Health Study
Authors: Tayhan Ali , Işık Kübra
Published: October 2024

Context

Starting face‐to‐face education while the COVID‐19 pandemic was ongoing was a risk for public health. Determining teachers’ initial reactions to public health practices during this high‐risk period may contribute to the redesign of public health and school nursing policies.

Objective

The aim of this research is to examine the relationship between primary school teachers’ COVID‐19 fear levels and COVID‐19 vaccine attitudes.

Design

The research has a descriptive correlational design. The data were obtained from teachers working in primary schools (n = 430). Simple random sampling method was used in the data collection process. Data were obtained with the Scale of Attitudes Towards COVID‐19 Vaccine and Fear of COVID‐19 Scale.

Results

In the study, 50.5% of teachers reported that they were afraid of catching COVID‐19, 41.9% said their risk of catching COVID‐19 was “high,” and 87.7% reported that they voluntarily got the COVID‐19 vaccine. Of the teachers, 4.6% (n = 20) stated that they regretted getting vaccinated. A positive and significant relationship was found between teachers’ Fear of COVID‐19 Scale and COVID‐19 Vaccine Attitude Scale scores (r = 0.133, p < 0.001).

Conclusions

During the pandemic, it was observed that teachers’ fear level of COVID‐19 increased with the start of face‐to‐face education. In addition, it is seen that teachers started to have doubts about some public health practices. This may indicate that public health nurses should take a more active role in school health practices.
Research Trends and Hot Topics of Nursing Studies on Hypertension: A Retrospective Bibliometric Analysis From 1979 to 2024
Authors: Dağistan Akgöz Ayşe , Kaya Ayla
Published: October 2024

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate research trends and hot topics in the 45‐year history of nursing studies on hypertension (1979–2024).

Methods

This retrospective bibliometric analysis study was conducted with 2678 data obtained from the WoSCC database on April 1, 2024. Data analysis and graphical presentation were presented using the Bibliometrix Package in R software, VOSviewer, and WoSCC.

Results

The study revealed that nursing studies on hypertension were growing rapidly in the scientific world. The most productive journal in the field was the Journal of Clinical Nursing, while the most productive and collaborative country was the United States. “Frailty,” “COVID‐19,” “complications,” “Meta‐analysis,” “vital signs,” “systematic review”, “self‐care,” and “chronic disease” were determined as hot topics. “COVID‐19” and “mhealth” were global trends. Additionally, the issues of “anxiety, pair, vital signs” and “elderly, nursing home, mortality” needed to be addressed more by nurses.

Conclusions

Nursing studies on hypertension have increased to date. This area is likely to continue to be an active area of study for nursing researchers in the coming years. Focusing on the topics “anxiety, pair, vital signs” and “elderly, nursing home, mortality” will contribute to filling the gap in the field.
Sensitivity of Rhizoctonia solani to fertilizers and fungicides and their synergistic effects
Authors: Maaoui Meriem , Tarhouni Belhassen , Djébali Naceur
Published: October 2024

Rhizoctonia solani reduces yield and quality of potato worldwide and some studies report the appearance of resistant strains due to the extensive use of fungicides. To overcome this problem, we studied the effect of commercial fertilizers alone and in combination with fungicides on the in‐vitro growth of R. solani in order to manage the use of fungicides and reduce the risk of resistance development in this pathogen. First, the study of the effect of three fungicides, azoxystrobin, pencycuron and fludioxonil, on the in‐vitro growth of R. solani showed that fludioxonil (EC50 = 0.06 × 10−3 μg a.i./mL) and pencycuron (EC50 = 0.1 × 10−3 μg a.i./mL) were very effective in inhibiting the growth of this pathogen at very low concentrations; however, azoxystrobin showed less antifungal activity (EC50 = 74.85 × 10−3 μg a.i./mL). The effect of five commercial fertilizers, namely di‐ammonium phosphate, superphosphate, phosphoric acid, potassium sulphate and ammonium nitrate, at different concentrations (0, 0.01, 0.1, 1 and 10 mg of fertilizer element [P2O5, K2O or N]/mL) showed that all fertilizers reduced the in‐vitro growth of R. solani. Furthermore, the studied fertilizers, particularly phosphorus‐based ones, improved the antifungal activity of the three fungicides. For instance, superphosphate at 0.1 mg of P2O5/mL in combination with pencycuron reduced the diameter of the fungal colony by 76.7% in comparison to the fungicide alone. In addition, the antifungal activity of azoxystrobin was improved by the NPK fertilizers, indicating their effect in reducing the risk of resistance development in R. solani to this fungicide. This study demonstrates the usefulness of fertilizers in an integrated management programme to enhance fungicide efficacy against R. solani, reducing the risk of resistance development in this pathogen.
The role of emerging scientists in restoration ecology: insights from a SER2023 conference workshop
Authors: Weidlich Emanuela W. A. , Amaral Valter , Lengefeld Ekaterina , Reis Bruna P. , Garbowski Magda , Martelli Enzo , Moraes Luiz F. D. , Murphy Stephen D.
Published: October 2024

Emerging professionals are crucial in advancing ecological restoration by connecting newcomers with established leaders and blending new ideas with traditional practices. This paper highlights the vital role emerging scientists play in restoration ecology and the Society for Ecological Restoration (SER). A survey conducted during the SER2023 conference workshop, organized by the Students and Emerging Professionals committee, showed that emerging professionals contribute significantly to every stage of scientific work, from planning to publication. However, participants emphasized the scarcity of funding opportunities for non‐senior scientists, which limits academic growth. The workshop underscored the importance of nurturing emerging professionals to develop future leaders for SER and ensure continuity. Fostering non‐hierarchical and inclusive networking is key to engaging and empowering these professionals, ultimately contributing to the long‐term success of ecological restoration efforts.
Saving the Wild or Saving the Cowboy? Cultural Conflict between the Old and Nouveau West*
Authors: Canfield John
Published: October 2024

In North Central Montana, a land‐based conflict centered on the environmental organization American Prairie sparked the formation of the “Save the Cowboy, Stop the American Prairie Reserve” Facebook page, attracting posts and comments from ranchers and members of the area's agriculture‐dependent communities. Despite Montana's rapid amenity migration and rural gentrification, this region has largely maintained its Old West culture. Consequently, Save the Cowboy members often express frustration about how American Prairie's large‐scale rewilding initiative and land acquisitions affect the region's rural communities. In this qualitative content analysis, concerns about preserving the Old West culture and avoiding the New West transformation dominated Save the Cowboy's Facebook posts and comments (N = 1,002), even compared to the ostensibly more concerning economic and ecological issues. By describing a social space marked by cultural antagonisms between Old West insiders and New West outsiders, this study points to the dangers of essentializing Old West‐New West conflicts. Illustrating how Old West insiders deploy their cultural capital to contest rural change, it also expands the Old West‐New West typology by proposing the term “Nouveau West” to capture how Old West insiders assert dominance by disparaging newcomers who lack the requisite knowledge of how things are done locally.
Hierarchical Social Distance: Social Attitudes Toward Ethnic and Immigrant Groups in a Midwestern City
Authors: Gu Chien‐Juh , Crawford Charles
Published: October 2024

Using the Bogardus social distance scale, the study examined residents' social attitudes toward 10 ethnic and immigrant groups. The analysis focused on Burmese immigrants, a rapidly growing ethnic group in the community. Findings suggest that residents consider whites the closest in social distance, followed by African Americans and Latino immigrants. Burmese immigrants are positioned only slightly closer than Russian immigrants and Muslims. Respondents who are male, Roman Catholic, hold a college degree or higher, and have a higher income demonstrate a greater level of social acceptance of Burmese immigrants. Those who had direct interaction with Burmese, support public resources for diversity and cultural events, maintain optimistic perspectives about the economy and community safety, and believe that immigrants strengthen American society also prefer a closer social distance with Burmese immigrants compared to their counterparts. When comparing these findings with previous research, the rank order of whites–African Americans–Latinos–Asians–Muslims on the social distance scale remains consistent across studies. We argue that social distance scores reveal hierarchical group positions in the larger society.
How do export credit services shape firm growth?
Authors: Hur Jung , Yoon Haeyeon
Published: October 2024

This paper examines the impacts of public export credit services on firms. Distinguishing itself from previous research, this study (i) analyses both export insurance and loan services from export credit agencies, and (ii) investigates heterogeneous effects based on service types and firm characteristics. Recognising that the effects can vary across groups and times, this study (iii) also employs research designs that accommodate heterogeneous and dynamic effects. Overlooking these factors in models with multiple periods and varied treatment timings can lead to biased results. Using novel data and the latest econometric methodologies, this paper finds that public export credit services significantly enhance the exports and employment of firms. While both export loan and insurance boost export activities, only export loan positively impacts employment growth. Additionally, financially constrained firms experience greater benefits from the export credit services compared with others. These findings offer valuable insights for developing policy allocation models, especially in emerging economies with less developed financial systems and greater needs for the efficient allocation of limited public resources to maximise impacts.
Staphylococcus felisC4 exhibits in vitro antimicrobial activity against methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus pseudintermedius in a novel canine skin explant model
Authors: Faccin Mayane , O'Neill Alan M. , Lawhon Sara D. , Worthing Kate A. , Wiener Dominique J. , Gallo Richard L. , Hoffmann Aline Rodrigues
Published: October 2024

Background

Canine superficial pyoderma is a common bacterial skin infection of dogs, generally caused by Staphylococcus pseudintermedius. The C4 strain of Staphylococcus felis was recently discovered to have strong antimicrobial activity against S. pseudintermedius in mice.

Objectives

We aimed to evaluate in vitro if this antimicrobial activity was maintained using a novel canine skin explant model.

Materials and Methods

Punch biopsies (8 mm) of skin from recently euthanised dogs were collected and placed into six‐well plates on top of an agarose pedestal.

Results

Histological examination of the skin explants showed an intact dermal–epidermal organisation and a stratum corneum that was successfully colonised by S. pseudintermedius after topical application. The number of colony forming units of S. pseudintermedius showed a 2 log increase after 24 h colonisation, indicating that the explant supported bacterial growth. By contrast, co‐treatment with S. felis C4 live bacteria and its sterile protein product significantly reduced the growth of a methicillin‐susceptible (ST540, p = 0.0357) and a methicillin‐resistant (MR) strain (ST71, p = 0.0143) of S. pseudintermedius. No detectable bacteria were recovered from or visualised on skin 24 h posttreatment with the S. felis C4 sterile protein product.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance

Using a novel canine explant model, we demonstrate that the S. felis C4 strain inhibits the growth of S. pseudintermedius and that it is a promising candidate for a new probiotic therapy to treat cutaneous infections caused by S. pseudintermedius, including MR strains.
A proof of gross' conjecture on 2‐automorphic 2‐groups
Authors: Li Cai Heng , Zhu Yan Zhou
Published: October 2024

Building upon previous results, a classification is given of finite ‐groups whose elements of order are all fused. This particularly confirms a conjecture of Gross proposed in 1976 on 2‐automorphic 2‐groups, which are 2‐groups with involutions forming a single fusion class. As a consequence, two open problems regarding AT‐groups and FIF‐groups are solved.
Dynamic of an Axial Piston Pump With Floating Pistons
Authors: Liu Baoyu , Ma Lifeng , An Gaocheng , Li Lankang , Guo Jiaqi , Wang Wenwei
Published: October 2024

A new structure of the axial piston pump was proposed to address the limitation of its application under low viscosity medium conditions due to the insufficient oil film bearing capacity. The piston of this structure is in a floating state in the axial direction, and both ends of the piston are supported by a discrete cylinder in the shape of a spherical joint. Because of the adaptive ability of the spherical joint in the orientation, the lateral force borne by the piston during operation has been decreased. And through a pair of bevel gears, the relative distance between the spherical joints at both ends of the piston varies with the rotation of the shaft, thereby enabling the pump to achieve a change in the cylinder volume. To demonstrate the superiority of the structure, firstly a mathematical model for dynamic analysis was constructed based on its working principle. Then, a kinematic analysis was conducted on a developed product, and co-simulated with AMESim to obtain the output flow pulsation. Subsequently, the dynamic characteristics of the piston were calculated. Finally, the simulation data was compared with that of a traditional swash plate axial piston pump of the same specifications. The results showed that the flow quality of AFPP will not be lower than that of the traditional pump with same displacement. And the piston lateral force can be changed from pressure dependent force to pressure independent force, so the piston lateral force of AFPP is smaller than that of traditional piston pumps at high-pressure condition, so the friction force and the wear between the cylinder and the piston can be significantly reduced. Therefore, this this type of structure can reduce the demand for oil film bearing capacity and have the ability to adapt to low viscosity media and low-speed working conditions.
Design and Simulation of a Drivetrain Integrated Pulsation Compensator for Pumps
Authors: Mikota Gudrun
Published: October 2024

A rotary mechanical pulsation compensator is developed from the well-known Helmholtz resonator. It consists of the pump rotor, a torsionally compliant coupling, and the remaining drivetrain. Deformation and strength requirements on the coupling are formulated for a beam concept and applied in combination with a radial piston pump. Future applications with constant rotational speed of the driving motor are discussed and the issue of multiple pump pulsation harmonics is addressed. A coupled hydraulic-mechanical model is set up for the pump drivetrain and the attached hydraulic system. In the frequency domain, parameter studies are carried out with respect to variable displacement. To account for hydraulic system resonances in different system configurations, outlet pipeline length and cylinder capacity are also varied. In the time domain, startup is simulated with an explicit estimate of geometric pump flow rate pulsation. It is investigated if pressure measurements during a slow startup procedure can prove the compensator effect by approaching stationary conditions.
Comparative Study on Asymmetric and Symmetric Configurations of Valve Plates in Axial Piston Pumps
Authors: Lu Yijie , Fang Hua , Yang Bo , Jiang Haoyi , Ling Zhenfei , Liu Hao , Ouyang Xiaoping , Yang Huayong
Published: October 2024

Using asymmetric cylinders to replace symmetric cylinders effectively reduces the volume and weight of electro-hydrostatic actuators (EHAs). However, asymmetric cylinders have the flow mismatch between the rod and rodless chambers. Researchers proposed using the three-port asymmetric valve plate (AVP) to solve the flow mismatch problem without increasing the weight and volume of the EHA. However, compared with the traditional symmetric valve plate (SVP), the impact of the AVP on the performance of the axial piston pump has yet to be studied. This paper establishes a mixed lubrication model of the cylinder block/valve plate interface considering asperity contact, and compares the oil film characteristics of AVP and SVP. It is found that the cylinder block overturning behavior caused by the AVP is more prominent than that of the SVP. At the same time, by establishing a lumped parameter model of the axial piston pump, the flow characteristics of AVP and SVP under different operating conditions are compared, revealing the impact of AVP on the flow ripple of the axial piston pump. The results of this work can be utilized to optimize the cylinder block anti-overturning behavior and outlet ripple suppression of the axial piston pump, as well as to improve the control performance of the EHA.
Investigating External Gear Pump Efficiency at Very Low Speeds With Graphene Nanofluids
Authors: Chiavola Ornella , Palmieri Fulvio , Verdoliva Francesco , Liscio Andrea , Ligi Simone
Published: October 2024

Experimental investigations are performed to assess the operational efficiency of external gear pumps under high-pressure conditions, with a specific focus on varying shaft rotation speeds. These analyses encompass a broad range of rotational velocities, spanning from conventional to remarkably low speeds, reaching a minimum threshold of 150 RPM. At such reduced speeds, both volumetric and torque losses rise significantly, posing notable challenges to pump performance. Additionally, the lubrication conditions at such modest velocities are often compromised, further constraining the operational range of gear pumps, and limiting the efficiency of pump-controlled systems reliant on speed modulation.

The primary objective of the current investigations is to assess the potential effectiveness of nanofluids in enhancing pump performance, particularly under the demanding operational conditions delineated above. This entails scenarios where pump loads are very high, and operational speeds are diminished to reach markedly off-design operating conditions. Consequently, the study presents a comparative analysis of external gear pumps operating with a commercial fluid that is integrated with graphene nanoparticles. Performance metrics, in terms of volumetric and hydro-mechanical efficiency, are evaluated to assess the impact of the nanofluid on overall pump energy performance.

The findings of this study provide a first insight into the influence of nanofluids on gear pump efficiency and offer data for pump modeling at low speed. Such analyses hold relevance when control of gear pumps through variable speed logic is needed, as they provide an understanding of the potential benefits and limitations associated with the adoption of nanofluid-enhanced pump systems.
Transmission Line Models for Fluid Power Hoses Identified From Measurement Data
Authors: Manhartsgruber Bernhard
Published: October 2024

Modeling and simulation have become essential tools in fluid power engineering. On the overall system simulation level, most components are described by a concentrated parameter approach resulting in a system of ordinary differential equations. The exception to this rule is found in pipelines and hoses, where wave propagation may be of importance and hence a distributed parameter approach results in some sort of spatial discretization in the modeling process. For long bores in hydraulic valve manifolds and also for rigidly supported steel pipes, the dynamic behaviour can be predicted very well with standard models available from literature like the classical frequency dependent friciton model of D’Souza and Oldenburger. With wire or fibre reinforced high pressure rubber hoses, this is no longer true and the transfer behaviour of such transmission lines can only be characterized based on measurement data. The present paper presents a novel approach towards the construction of low order models for the approximation of the measured input-output behaviour of fluid power hose lines. The method is based on the measurement of the linearized system dynamics at a number of pressure levels and is intended towards the local linear model tree (LOLIMOT) technique after identifying reduced order models for each pressure level. The results are applicable to fluid power system simulations where the dynamics of hose lines becomes important due to high operating frequencies or when noise attenuation in the hose lines is the primary focus of the simulation. The measurements provided in the paper are for a fluid power hose with a diameter of 20 mm and a length of 3 m.
Important ultrasonography and CT findings and prognostic factors of incidentally detected gallbladder cancer
Authors: An Jihae , Kim Jung Hoon , Kim Hee Soo , Choi Jin Sol
Published: October 2024

Aims: To evaluate important imaging findings and prognostic factors of incidentally detected gallbladder cancer (IDGC). Materials and methods: Patients with surgically proven IDGC (n=85) and benign GB diseases (n=100) were retrospectively enrolled. All patients had preoperative CT and eighty-two patients had US images. Two radiologists independently assessed image findings and analyzed findings suggestive of IDGC and recurrence after surgery. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to identify significant predictors for IDGC and recurrence.Results: 87% (74/85) of IDGC belonged to early cancer. On US, mucosal irregularity (odds ratio (OR), 26.29; 95% confidence interval (CI), 2.66-259.42; p=0.005) was a significant predictor of IDGC. Enhancement pattern of wall (OR, 7.78; 95% CI, 2.84-21.39; p<0.001), and maximum wall thickness (OR, 1.31; 95% CI, 1.11-1.55; p=0.002) were significant predictors of IDGC on CT. Twenty-two patients showed recurrence. For clinical factors, T-, N-stage were associated with recurrence (p<0.001). For imaging, focal wall thickening (OR, 8.74; 95% CI, 1.13-67.49, p=0.038) on US and lymph node enlargement (LNE) (OR, 8.93; 95% CI, 1.44-55.19, p=0.018) on CT were significant predictors of recurrence.Conclusion: Image findings are useful to predict IDGC using mucosal disruption, maximum wall thickness, enhancement pattern of wall. In addition, focal wall thickening and LNE were useful for predicting recurrence.
Reprogramming astroglia into neurons with hallmarks of fast-spiking parvalbumin-positive interneurons by phospho-site–deficient Ascl1
Authors: Marichal Nicolás , Péron Sophie , Beltrán Arranz Ana , Galante Chiara , Franco Scarante Franciele , Wiffen Rebecca , Schuurmans Carol , Karow Marisa , Gascón Sergio , Berninger Benedikt
Published: October 2024

Cellular reprogramming of mammalian glia to an induced neuronal fate holds the potential for restoring diseased brain circuits. While the proneural factor
achaete-scute complex-like 1
(
Ascl1
) is widely used for neuronal reprogramming, in the early postnatal mouse cortex,
Ascl1
fails to induce the glia-to-neuron conversion, instead promoting the proliferation of oligodendrocyte progenitor cells (OPC). Since Ascl1 activity is posttranslationally regulated, here, we investigated the consequences of mutating six serine phospho-acceptor sites to alanine (Ascl1SA6) on lineage reprogramming in vivo. Ascl1SA6 exhibited increased neurogenic activity in the glia of the early postnatal mouse cortex, an effect enhanced by coexpression of
B cell lymphoma 2
(
Bcl2
). Genetic fate-mapping revealed that most induced neurons originated from astrocytes, while only a few derived from OPCs. Many Ascl1SA6/Bcl2-induced neurons expressed parvalbumin and were capable of high-frequency action potential firing. Our study demonstrates the authentic conversion of astroglia into neurons featuring subclass hallmarks of cortical interneurons, advancing our scope of engineering neuronal fates in the brain.
Functional PET/MRI reveals active inhibition of neuronal activity during optogenetic activation of the nigrostriatal pathway
Authors: Haas Sabrina , Bravo Fernando , Ionescu Tudor M. , Gonzalez-Menendez Irene , Quintanilla-Martinez Leticia , Dunkel Gina , Kuebler Laura , Hahn Andreas , Lanzenberger Rupert , Weigelin Bettina , Reischl Gerald , Pichler Bernd J. , Herfert Kristina
Published: October 2024

The dopaminergic system is a central component of the brain’s neurobiological framework, governing motor control and reward responses and playing an essential role in various brain disorders. Within this complex network, the nigrostriatal pathway represents a critical circuit for dopamine neurotransmission from the substantia nigra to the striatum. However, stand-alone functional magnetic resonance imaging is unable to study the intricate interplay between brain activation and its molecular underpinnings. In our study, the use of a functional [fluorine-18]2-fluor-2-deoxy-
d
-glucose positron emission tomography approach, simultaneously with blood oxygen level–dependent functional magnetic resonance imaging, provided an important insight that demonstrates an active suppression of the nigrostriatal activity during optogenetic stimulation. This result increases our understanding of the molecular mechanisms of brain function and provides an important perspective on how dopamine influences hemodynamic responses in the brain.
Toxoplasma gondii
macrophage migration inhibitory factor shows anti–
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
potential via AZIN1/STAT1 interaction
Authors: Yoon Chanjin , Kim Hyo Keun , Ham Yu Seong , Gil Woo Jin , Mun Seok-Jun , Cho Euni , Yuk Jae-Min , Yang Chul-Su
Published: October 2024

Mycobacterium tuberculosis
(MTB) is a pathogenic bacterium, belonging to the family
Mycobacteriaceae
, that causes tuberculosis (TB).
Toxoplasma gondii
macrophage migration inhibitory factor (TgMIF), a protein homolog of macrophage migration inhibitory factor, has been explored for its potential to modulate immune responses during MTB infections. We observed that TgMIF that interacts with CD74, antizyme inhibitor 1 (AZIN1), and signal transducer and activator of transcription 1 (STAT1) modulates endocytosis, restoration of mitochondrial function, and macrophage polarization, respectively. These interactions promote therapeutic efficacy in mice infected with MTB, thereby presenting a potential route to host-directed therapy development. Furthermore, TgMIF, in combination with first-line TB drugs, significantly inhibited drug-resistant MTB strains, including multidrug-resistant TB. These results demonstrate that TgMIF is potentially a multifaceted therapeutic agent against TB, acting through immune modulation, enhancement of mitochondrial function, and dependent on STAT1 and AZIN1 pathways.
Forward and backward control of an ultrafast millimeter-scale microrobot via vibration mode transition
Authors: Yu Xian , Zhan Wencheng , Liu Zhiwei , Wei Lizhao , Shen Wei , Yun Ruide , Leng Jiaming , Xu Heming , Qi Mingjing , Yan Xiaojun
Published: October 2024

The ability to move backward is crucial for millimeter-scale microrobots to navigate dead-end tunnels that are too narrow to allow for turning maneuvers. In this study, we introduce a 15-mm-long legged microrobot, BHMbot-B, which is capable of rapid forward and backward locomotion through vibration mode transition control. By properly arranging the vibratory motions of the magnet, cantilever, and linkages, the pitching movement of the body and the vibration of the forelegs are in phase during the first-order vibration mode of the cantilever and in antiphase during the second-order mode, which induces the forward and backward movement of the microrobot. Owing to its outstanding load-bearing capacity, the BHMbot-B equipped with dual electromagnetic actuators, an onboard battery, and a control circuit, can execute complex running trajectories under wireless command. Its maximum untethered running speeds are evaluated as 18.0 BL/s (360 mm/s) in the forward direction and 16.9 BL/s (338 mm/s) in the backward direction.
Late acquisition of erect hindlimb posture and function in the forerunners of therian mammals
Authors: Bishop Peter J. , Pierce Stephanie E.
Published: October 2024

The evolutionary transition from early synapsids to therian mammals involved profound reorganization in locomotor anatomy and function, centered around a shift from “sprawled” to “erect” limb postures. When and how this functional shift was accomplished has remained difficult to decipher from the fossil record alone. Through biomechanical modeling of hindlimb force-generating performance in eight exemplar fossil synapsids, we demonstrate that the erect locomotor regime typifying modern therians did not evolve until just before crown Theria. Modeling also identifies a transient phase of increased performance in therapsids and early cynodonts, before crown mammals. Further, quantifying the global actions of major hip muscle groups indicates a protracted juxtaposition of functional redeployment and conservatism, highlighting the intricate interplay between anatomical reorganization and function across postural transitions. We infer a complex history of synapsid locomotor evolution and suggest that major evolutionary transitions between contrasting locomotor behaviors may follow highly nonlinear trajectories.
A ubiquitous mobile genetic element changes the antagonistic weaponry of a human gut symbiont
Authors: Sheahan Madeline L. , Flores Katia , Coyne Michael J. , García-Bayona Leonor , Chatzidaki-Livanis Maria , Holst Andrea Q. , Smith Rita C. , Sundararajan Anitha , Barquera Blanca , Comstock Laurie E.
Published: October 2024

DNA transfer is ubiquitous in the human gut microbiota, especially among species of the order Bacteroidales. In silico analyses have revealed hundreds of mobile genetic elements shared between these species, yet little is known about the phenotypes they encode, their effects on fitness, or pleiotropic consequences for the recipient’s genome. In this work, we show that acquisition of a ubiquitous integrative conjugative element (ICE) encoding a type VI secretion system (T6SS) shuts down the native T6SS of
Bacteroides fragilis
. Despite inactivating this T6SS, ICE acquisition increases the fitness of the
B. fragilis
transconjugant over its progenitor by arming it with the new T6SS. DNA transfer causes the strain to change allegiances so that it no longer targets ecosystem members with the same element yet is armed for communal defense.
Reductive pathways in molten inorganic salts enable colloidal synthesis of III-V semiconductor nanocrystals
Authors: Ondry Justin C. , Zhou Zirui , Lin Kailai , Gupta Aritrajit , Chang Jun Hyuk , Wu Haoqi , Jeong Ahhyun , Hammel Benjamin F. , Wang Di , Fry H. Christopher , Yazdi Sadegh , Dukovic Gordana , Schaller Richard D. , Rabani Eran , Talapin Dmitri V.
Published: October 2024

Colloidal quantum dots, with their size-tunable optoelectronic properties and scalable synthesis, enable applications in which inexpensive high-performance semiconductors are needed. Synthesis science breakthroughs have been key to the realization of quantum dot technologies, but important group III–group V semiconductors, including colloidal gallium arsenide (GaAs), still cannot be synthesized with existing approaches. The high-temperature molten salt colloidal synthesis introduced in this work enables the preparation of previously intractable colloidal materials. We directly nucleated and grew colloidal quantum dots in molten inorganic salts by harnessing molten salt redox chemistry and using surfactant additives for nanocrystal shape control. Synthesis temperatures above 425°C are critical for realizing photoluminescent GaAs quantum dots, which emphasizes the importance of high temperatures enabled by molten salt solvents. We generalize the methodology and demonstrate nearly a dozen III-V solid-solution nanocrystal compositions that have not been previously reported.
‘Landscape of fear’ had little impact on Yellowstone ecology
Authors: Morell Virginia
Published: October 2024

Predation by animals and humans, not behavioral change, was what lightened the impact of elk on young trees
Digital Image Correlation Analysis of Fatigue Degradation of Layered Polymer Composites (Polyetheretherketone/Polyetherimide, PEEK/PEI) with Carbon-Fiber Fabric Prepreg
Authors: Panin S. V. , Bogdanov A. A. , Aleksenko V. O. , Bochkareva S. A. , Lyubutin P. S. , Panov I. L. , Tian D.
Published: October 2024

In this work, the relationship was considered between the structure and cyclic loading resistance of a layered composite consisting of PEI (PEEK) plate/PEI (PEEK) film/PEI-impregnated carbon-fiber fabric prepreg/PEI (PEEK) film/PEI (PEEK) plate by analyzing the time variation in the parameters of mechanical hysteresis loops calculated using digital image correlation. It was shown that the polyetherimide-based layered composite has low fatigue life under cyclic loading (0.8 of the yield strength), resulting from incompatible deformation between the PEI plates and the prepreg due to a layer interface formed by low-melting TecaPEI film. In the PEEK layered composite, the layer interface was formed by neat PEEK energy director and therefore had a little amount of defects, due to which the load was well transferred from the PEEK plates to the middle reinforcement layer. As a result, the fatigue life at a load level of 0.8 of the yield strength corresponded to high-cycle fatigue (more than 86000 cycles).
Keratoplasty: are children missing out on the lamellar revolution—the 2023 Bowman Club, David L. Easty Lecture
Authors: Leong Yuan-Yuh , Mehta Jodhbir S.
Published: October 2024

There has been a growing interest in lamellar keratoplasty over penetrating keratoplasty in the treatment of cornea diseases. Children, in particular, may benefit from lamellar keratoplasty due to faster visual recovery, better outcomes, fewer eye drops and earlier amblyopia treatment. This review aims to examine the trends, surgical techniques and outcomes in paediatric lamellar keratoplasty. Additionally, alternative treatment modalities to keratoplasty such as selective endothelium removal in Peters anomaly and ophthalmic non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs eyedrops in congenital hereditary endothelial dystrophy are also discussed.
Research on Dynamic Evaluation Method of Tourist Destination Accessibility Based on Interpretive Structure Model
Authors: Chang Kairong
Published: October 2024

Because of its core role in the process of tourism, tourism destination has always been the focus of discussion among the industry, but the comprehensive evaluation of tourism destination is rarely mentioned. This paper selects tourism destination as the focus of investigation, gives the evaluation method of tourism destination, adapts to the trend of tourism modernization, and discusses the quantifiable model of tourism destination evaluation. This paper first selects several tourism destinations as samples, collects and combs the information related to spatial equity of tourism destinations, and determines the main problem categories of spatial equity of tourism destinations. Then, through the summary of relevant data and case analysis, a framework of tourism target accessibility risk factors is formed. At the same time, considering the interaction between risk factors, we then give a method to determine the weight that can improve granular computing. First, we use this method to obtain the quotient space family with hierarchical characteristics through the similarity relationship between data, and then we can calculate the importance of each feature in the quotient space family, so as to obtain the corresponding weight between different influence indexes. Finally, the paper takes the tourism destination spatial equity problem as the main research goal, and through the dynamic evaluation of the tourism destination spatial equity risk impact structure using the interpretive structure model, and describes the schematic diagram of its impact structure, so as to find out the direct, source, process and other factors that cause the problem.
Adaptive Tabu Search Algorithm Based on Quantum Dwelling and KNN Classifier for Creative Game Selection in Preschool Education
Authors: Zhao Xin
Published: October 2024

In order to select the best creative games for preschool education more quickly and accurately, a method for selecting creative games for preschool education based on tabu search tabu search (TS) algorithm is proposed. The TS algorithm is improved by using quantum population, and an adaptive neighborhood mapping mechanism is formed to dynamically adjust the tabu length and accelerate the convergence of the algorithm. The KNN algorithm is used to calculate the initial solution of the characteristics of preschool creative games, and the quantum adaptive optimization tabu search algorithm is used to iterate from the initial solution, and the subset of feature vectors containing feature weights and feature selection vectors is continuously searched as the input of KNN classifier. The improved objective function is used as a guide to combine the selection results of classifiers by simple voting, and the output of the selection results of creative games in preschool education is realized. Experiments show that this method can select more critical features of creative games in preschool education at a faster speed while ensuring the accuracy of the selection results. At the same time, the improved tabu search algorithm has faster convergence speed and better search performance, and can recommend creative games that are most suitable for preschool education according to the actual situation.
A numerical investigation of nonlinear age-structured tumor with bidirectional proliferative and quiescent phase transitions
Authors: Sinha Sweta , Singh Paramjeet
Published: October 2024

The study investigates a nonlinear model that describes the dynamics of populations of tumor cells, with a specific emphasis on the phases of cell proliferation and quiescence. The formulation of the model is determined by the age of the cells and time spend by them in each phase. The nonlinearity arises from the transitions between the proliferative and quiescent phases that are influenced by the age of cells and their total count. We thoroughly investigate the stability characteristic, both local and global, of trivial equilibrium points. To discretize the model, we utilize the discontinuous Galerkin scheme for spatial variables and the explicit Runge–Kutta of order four for time-dependent variables. The effectiveness of the discretized scheme is assessed using the convergence rate outcomes. The validity of our results is confirmed through numerical simulations, which also explore the effects of model paraters.
Bosonic quantum integrable systems and gauge theories
Authors: Gu Wei
Published: October 2024

In this paper, we apply two-dimensional supersymmetric gauge theories to directly construct a new Bethe ansatz for the wave functions of the q-boson hopping model, and then derive the q-boson algebras from this ansatz.
Commutator equations
Authors: Fioravanti Stefano
Published: October 2024

In this paper, we investigate properties of varieties of algebras described by a novel concept of equation that we call commutator equation. A commutator equation is a relaxation of the standard term equality obtained substituting the equality relation with the commutator relation. Namely, an algebra [Formula: see text] satisfies the commutator equation [Formula: see text] if for each congruence [Formula: see text] in [Formula: see text] and for each substitution [Formula: see text] of elements in the same [Formula: see text]-class, we have [Formula: see text]. This notion of equation draws inspiration from the definition of a weak difference term and allows for further generalization of it. Furthermore, we present an algorithm that establishes a connection between congruence equations valid in the variety generated by the abelian algebras of the idempotent reduct of a given variety and congruence equations that hold in the entire variety. Additionally, we provide a proof that if the variety generated by the abelian algebras of the idempotent reduct of a variety satisfies a nontrivial idempotent Mal’cev condition, then also the entire variety satisfies a nontrivial idempotent Mal’cev condition, a statement that follows also from [ 12 , Theorem 3.13].
Graph and wreath products of cellular automata
Authors: Salo Ville
Published: October 2024

We prove that the set of subgroups of the automorphism group of a two-sided full shift is closed under countable graph products. We introduce the notion of a group action without A-cancellation (for an abelian group A), and show that when A is a finite abelian group and G is a group of cellular automata whose action does not have A-cancellation, the wreath product [Formula: see text] embeds in the automorphism group of a full shift. We show that all free abelian groups and free groups admit such cellular automata actions. In the one-sided case, we prove variants of these results with reasonable alphabet blow-ups.
Analogy of spacetime as an elastic medium — Estimation of a creep coefficient of space from space data via the MOND theory and the gravitational lensing effect — the ball cluster — and via time data from the GPS effect — comparison, discussion and implication of the results for dark matter and Einstein’s field equation
Authors: Izabel David
Published: October 2024

After recalling the principles that allow spacetime to be considered by analogy as an elastic medium, we show how the modified gravity according to the MOND theory concerning the anomaly of the velocities of stars at the periphery of galaxies can be seen as a creep of space acting on the radius of galaxies that give a creep coefficient of [Formula: see text]. The values vary between 0.2 and 9 depending on the type of galaxy and density distribution. Considering the gravitational lensing effect of the ball cluster we obtain a creep coefficient [Formula: see text] with [Formula: see text] the percentage of visible matter and [Formula: see text] the percentage of dark matter from the global mass ([Formula: see text]). The values vary between 0.66 and 4 for this cluster. This paper therefore raises the question, via these creep coefficients, of the possible granular nature of the vacuum and therefore of space fabric on the one hand and proposes another dark matter-free approach based on the creep of the texture of space to explain gravitational anomalies on the other hand.
OPTIMIZING THE PROCESS PARAMETER OF ABRASIVE WATER JET MACHINING AGAINST SUB-SURFACE DELAMINATION OF NANOCLAY MODIFIED GLARE LAMINATES
Authors: HARIHARASAKTHISUDHAN P. , LOGESH K. , KANNAN SATHISH , SIVAKUMAR R. , SATHICKBASHA K.
Published: October 2024

GLARE is a type of laminate material made up of layers of aluminum and fiberglass used in automotive, and aircraft structures like fuselage panels, control surfaces, and wing skins due to their superior specific strength, fatigue, and damage tolerance. The inclusion of nanoclay filler was reported to improve the mechanical properties of the GLARE laminates. However, it is important to investigate the machinability of such laminates to extend their applicability in the industry. The current work optimizes the process parameters of the Abrasive Water Jet Machining (AWJM) process to cut the nanoclay-modified Fiber Metal Laminates (FMLs). The experiments were designed by following Taguchi’s L9 orthogonal array. The influence of factors like the velocity of waterjet, mass flow rate, and stand-off distance of the nozzle against the response such as cutting time and sub-surface delamination of layers were studied. The delamination was measured using the variation in thickness before and after the cutting process. The changes in the cutting surface were analyzed using macroscopic analysis. The study also developed the regression model and conducted ANOVA on generated data. Grey Relational Analysis (GRA) was used to identify the optimum values of input process parameters against multiple responses such as cutting time and delamination. The results revealed that the jet velocity significantly affected the cutting time, whereas the stand-off distance and mass flow rate affected the delamination thickness of the laminates. A slight plastic deformation was noted on the metal surfaces along with irregularities and fiber exposure was observed in the GFRP layers of laminates exhibited low cutting performance.