bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Step count and multiple health outcomes: An umbrella review
Authors: Ao Zhimin , He Hongbo , Shi Hongxia , Liu Hong
Published: April 2024

Objective

This study aimed to quantify the association between step count and multiple health outcomes in a healthy population.

Methods

PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and The Cochrane Library were systematically searched for systematic reviews and meta‐analyses from inception to April 1, 2022. Literature screening, data extraction, and data analysis were performed in this umbrella review. The intervention factor was daily step counts measured based on devices. Multiple health outcomes included metabolic diseases, cardiovascular diseases, all‐cause mortality, and other outcomes in the healthy population.

Results

Twenty studies with 94 outcomes were identified in this umbrella review. The increase in daily step count contributed to a range of human health outcomes. Furthermore, the special population, different age groups, countries, and cohorts should be carefully considered. Negative correlation between step counts and the following outcomes: metabolic outcomes, cardiovascular diseases, all‐cause mortality, postural balance, cognitive function, and mental health. However, there was no association between participation in the outdoor walking group and the improvement of systolic blood pressure and diastolic blood pressure. Analysis of the dose–response association between increasing daily step count and the risk of cardiovascular disease events and all‐cause mortality showed a substantially linear relationship.

Conclusion

A wide range of health outcomes can benefit from the right number of steps.
Analysis and mapping the research landscape on patient‐centred care in the context of chronic disease management
Authors: Sweileh Waleed M.
Published: April 2024

Rationale

Patient‐centred care has emerged as a transformative approach in managing chronic diseases, aiming to actively involve patients in their healthcare decisions.

Aims and Objectives

This study was conducted to analyse and map the research landscape on patient‐centred care in the context of chronic disease management.

Methods

This study used Scopus to retrieve the relevant articles. The analysis focused on the growth pattern, highly cited articles, randomised clinical trials, patients and providers perspectives, facilitators and barriers, frequent author keywords, emerging topics, and prolific countries and journals in the field.

Results

In total, 926 research articles met the inclusion criteria. There was a notable increase in the number of publications over time. Cancer had the highest number of articles (n = 379, 40.9%), followed by diabetes mellitus, and mental health and psychiatric conditions. Studies on patient‐centred care in diabetic patients received the highest number of citations. The results identified 52 randomised controlled trials that covered four major themes: patient‐centred care for diabetes management, shared decision‐making in mental health and primary care, shared decision‐making in cancer care, and economic evaluation and cost‐effectiveness. The study identified 51 studies that examined the impact of tools such as computer‐based systems, decision aids, smartphone apps, and online tools to improve patient‐centred outcomes. A map of author keywords showed that renal dialysis, HIV, and atrial fibrillation were the most recent topics in the field. Researchers from the United States contributed to more than half of the retrieved publications. The top active journals included “Patient Education and Counselling” and “Health Expectations”.

Conclusion

This study provides valuable insights into the research landscape of patient‐centred care within the context of chronic diseases. The current study provided a comprehensive overview of the research landscape on patient‐centred care, which can empower patients by raising their awareness about clinical experiences and outcomes.
A digital workflow for designing and manufacturing metal frameworks and removable partial dentures: A novel dental technique
Authors: Wang Xin , Ma Dan , Zhong Sheng , Ye Qingyuan , Zhao Yimin , Ren Nan , Bai Shizhu
Published: April 2024

The purpose of this technical report is to demonstrate a fully digital workflow for designing and fabricating metal frameworks and removable partial dentures. After obtaining a digital cast of the dental arch with bilateral distal extension defect, computer‐aided design software and 3D printing technology are used for the design and fabrication of the removable partial denture frameworks, denture teeth, and denture bases, instead of the traditional workflow. The assembly of the three components is facilitated through a meticulously structured framework. The technology, which prints metal frameworks, denture bases, and denture teeth through different processes with different materials, achieves full 3D printing technology for making removable partial dentures.
Effects of low protein diets on acid‐base balance, electrolyte balance, intestinal structure, and amino acid transport in piglets
Authors: Lin Qian , Tu Xiaodian , Li Xin , Gou Feiyang , Gao Hui , Lu Zeqing , Feng Jie , Ying Yongfei , Hu Caihong
Published: April 2024

Reducing the dietary crude protein (CP) could effectively reduce pressure on protein ingredient supplies. However, few data have been reported about the extent to which CP can be reduced and whether limiting the use of soybean meal leads to electrolyte imbalance. In this experiment, using the low protein (LP) diet [2% lower than NRC (2012)], seventy‐two piglets (35 days old) were randomly divided into 2 groups with 6 replicates of 6 piglets each: CON group (CP = 18.5%) and LP group (CP = 16.5%), to investigate the effect of the LP diet on electrolyte balance, acid‐base balance, intestinal structure and amino acid transport in piglets. The results revealed that the LP diet decreased the average daily gain and dietary CP digestibility, and damaged the villi structure of the small intestine. Compared with the CON diet, the potassium content decreased and the chlorine content increased in the LP diet, and similar trends were shown in piglet serum. The arterial pH, pCO2, HCO3−, and base excess of piglets in the LP group were lower than those in the CON group, while pO2 was higher than those in the CON group. Interestingly, the LP diet significantly increased the lysine content in piglet serum and significantly decreased the levels of arginine, leucine, and glutamic acid. Furthermore, the LP diet significantly affected the expression of some amino acid transport vectors (B0AT1, EAAC1, and y+LAT1). In summary, these findings suggested that the LP diet leads to acid‐base imbalance, amino acid transport disorder and amino acids imbalance in piglets, and the dietary electrolyte may be a key factor in the impact of the LP diet on piglet growth performance and intestinal health.
Interactive roles of fire seasons and biological invasions in the short‐term dynamics of tropical savannas
Authors: Dezotti Gabriela , Fidelis Alessandra , Damasceno Gabriella , Siqueira Tadeu
Published: April 2024

Aim

Changes in fire regimes and biological invasions are major threats to tropical savannas. Fire is a key driver of community composition in these ecosystems and can be used as a management tool to control some invasive alien species, while being advantageous to native ones. However, we still do not fully comprehend the interactive effects of these threats on native plant communities. Here, we conducted an experiment in southeastern Brazil to investigate how variation in the composition of native communities invaded either by Melinis minutiflora or Urochloa brizantha is affected by fire in different seasons: early‐dry season, mid‐dry season and late‐dry season in comparison to fire suppression.

Location

Itirapina, state of São Paulo, southeastern Brazil (22°14′07″S 47°53′07″W).

Results

The effects of fire seasons and invasive species were independent for species richness but interactive for species gains and losses. In general, the identity of the invasive species was a key factor driving community dynamics, with fire seasons playing a weaker role. Invaded communities changed gradually over time and the major changes happened over longer time lags. Communities invaded by M. minutiflora gained more species than those invaded by U. brizantha. Thus, communities invaded by M. minutiflora also had more variation in their species richness through time than those invaded by U. brizantha.

Conclusions

Although biological invasions and fire seasons interacted as drivers of change in native savanna communities, the identity of the invasive species played a stronger role. Communities invaded by M. minutiflora gained more species and were more variable than those invaded by U. brizantha.
In search of the glow—Three‐dimensional reconstruction of Latia neritoides with specific focus on the mantel cavity (Mollusca; Gastropoda; Hygrophila)
Authors: Greistorfer S. , Miller I. , von Byern J. , Meyer‐Rochow V. B. , Geyer S. H. , Weninger W. J. , Steiner G.
Published: April 2024

The freshwater snail Latia neritoides occurs in certain streams and lakes of New Zealand's North Island. It defends itself against predators with a unique mechanism – the release of sticky, glowing mucus. Two possible origins of this defence mucus had earlier been suggested: the foot and the pneumostome area. After examining the glandular system of the foot in a previous study, in the present study we examined the general morphology of L. neritoides, focusing on the mantle cavity. With the first complete 3D model of L. neritoides now available, it is possible to evaluate previous morphological studies and to give non‐specialists a better understanding of the soft part anatomy of this fascinating gastropod. As a by‐product of this, we also compared the capabilities of μ‐CT and HREM on a methodological level. We characterized the two most common gland types in the mantel cavity (Lmcg1/Lmcg2) on the basis of their ultrastructure. They are present in large numbers and, therefore, regarded as likely candidates for being the producers of one or more components of the defence mucus. This notion was confirmed by histochemical analyses of Lmcg1 and Lmcg2 and other gland types in L. neritoides.
Professional approach to the care of women who have suffered a perinatal loss
Authors: Rubio‐Alvarez Ana , Jiménez‐Ramos Carmen , Bravo‐Vaquero Carolina , Pulgarín‐Pulgarín Beatriz , Rodríguez‐Almagro Julián , Hernández‐Martínez Antonio
Published: April 2024

To understand the experience, training, and needs of midwives in their approach to perinatal grief. A descriptive cross‐sectional study was carried out using an online questionnaire with 26 questions related to institutional management and individual clinical practices in the care of a perinatal loss was developed by a team of midwives from the Hospital “La Mancha‐Centro” of Alcazar de San Juan (Ciudad Real). Strobe checklist was followed. A total of 267 midwives participated. A total of 92.1% (246) of the centers had specific protocols for action, but each professional applied their own criteria. The presence of a perinatal psychology team was nonexistent according to 88% (235) of those surveyed. Regarding their training and professional experience, 16.5% (44) of the midwives had never received training. Only 4.1% (11) of the midwives felt very prepared to care for women with a perinatal loss. Among the factors associated with greater application of recommended practices in the face of perinatal death by midwives were being a woman, having prior training on care during perinatal death, and a greater perception of preparation (p < 0.05). The perception of lack of preparation on the part of midwives in the accompaniment of these families was high.
Oral conditions are associated with salt taste disability among American adults
Authors: Schertel Cassiano Luisa , Leite Fábio R. M. , Alves‐Costa Silas , Costa Susilena Arouche , Nascimento Gustavo G.
Published: April 2024

Aim

To explore the association between oral conditions and their interaction with salt taste disability among American adults.

Methods

Data from the 2013–2014 NHANES cycle were used (n = 2373). The exposures were periodontitis, defined by the 2017 EFP‐AAP classification, dental caries, missing teeth, and edentulism, as per the DMF‐T index, and xerostomia. The outcome was salt taste disability, objectively assessed. Covariates included sex, age, educational level, poverty index, obesity, diabetes, smoking, alcohol consumption, and medications related to mouth dryness. Weighted multivariable logistic regression modeling was used to evaluate the relationship between oral conditions and their interaction and salt taste disability.

Results

Participants who reported xerostomia were more likely to have salt taste disability (OR 2.42; 95%CI 1.44–4.07), especially those older than 60 years (OR 3.63; 95%CI 1.72–7.63). Among participants aged 40–59, xerostomia increased the chance of salt taste disability; however, the confidence interval included the null value. The interactions between xerostomia and edentulism increased the chance of salt taste disability.

Conclusion

Oral conditions seem to influence the ability to taste salt. Dental professionals may help identify individuals with taste alterations and raise their awareness of the risk of systemic diseases that require the reduction of salt intake.
Fibroblast regulates angiogenesis in assembled oral cancer organoid: A possible role of NNMT
Authors: Holkom Mohammed , Yang Xiao , Li Rui , Chen Yang , Zhao Hui , Shang Zhengjun
Published: April 2024

Objective

Tumour angiogenesis is affected by various cell types in the tumour microenvironment (TME), including cancer cells and cancer‐associated fibroblasts (CAFs). Here, an assembled organoid model was generated to investigate the mechanism by which the TME regulates angiogenesis in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC).

Materials and Methods

Secretion of vascular endothelial growth factor‐A (VEGFA) was analysed to compare the proangiogenic properties of OSCC cells and corresponding CAFs. Cell aggregates consisting of endothelial cells (ECs), CAFs and cancer cells were generated to construct assembled organoids. Nicotinamide N‐methyltransferase (NNMT) was pharmacologically or genetically inhibited to block the activation of CAFs. ATAC‐seq was employed to test the transcriptional network of fibroblasts overexpressing NNMT.

Results

Compared with cancer cells, CAFs secreted more VEGFA. Coculture with CAFs more effectively promoted the sprouting of ECs. Blockade of CAF activation via inhibition of NNMT drastically reduced the expression of CD31 in the assembled organoids. Overexpression of NNMT enhanced the transcription of genes related to angiogenesis in fibroblasts. Specifically, NNMT orchestrated the enrichment of the transcription factor JUNB at the promoter of VEGFA.

Conclusions

We clarify that stromal NNMT enables the steady reproduction of angiogenesis in assembled oral cancer organoids, providing a novel target for exploiting antiangiogenic therapy.
Macrophage‐derived exosomes rescue the TNF‐ɑ‐suppressed osteo‐/cementogenic differentiation of hPDLCs
Authors: Deng Yifei , Xiao Junhong , Huang Xin , Cao Zhengguo
Published: April 2024

Objective

Inflammatory stimuli compromise the differentiation potency of human periodontal ligament cells (hPDLCs). Macrophage‐derived exosomes (M‐Exo) play a role in several aspects of cellular activity. This study investigated how M‐Exo contributes to the osteo‐/cementogenic differentiation of hPDLCs under inflammation and the mechanism involved.

Methods

M‐Exo was identified by transmission electron microscopy, western blotting (WB), and dynamic light scattering. The internalization of M‐Exo by hPDLCs was observed. After M‐Exo treatment, the osteo‐/cementogenic markers were detected by RT‐qPCR and WB, and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity by ALP staining. Tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF‐ɑ) was applied to simulate inflammation. The rescue effect of M‐Exo on TNF‐ɑ‐suppressed differentiation was validated. The p38 MAPK pathway activity was tested and a specific inhibitor was applied to explore the mechanism.

Results

M‐Exo was successfully isolated, identified and internalized by hPDLCs. M‐Exo enhanced the osteo‐/cementogenic differentiation of hPDLCs, as indicated by upregulated osteo‐/cementogenic markers and elevated ALP activity. Moreover, TNF‐ɑ inhibited the differentiation capabilities of hPDLCs, on which M‐Exo showed a rescue effect. M‐Exo activated the p38 MAPK pathway and SB203580 attenuated its promotion effect.

Conclusion

This study showed that M‐Exo ameliorated the TNF‐ɑ‐suppressed osteo‐/cementogenic differentiation of hPDLCs partly through the p38 MAPK pathway.
Impact of preoperative haemoglobin, albumin, lymphocyte, and platelet score on oral cancer prognosis
Authors: Ito Yu , Abe Atsushi , Hayashi Hiroki
Published: April 2024

Objective

To evaluate the preoperative haemoglobin, albumin, lymphocyte, and platelet score as a prognostic indicator in oral squamous cell carcinoma treated by radical surgery.

Subjects and Methods

Patients (83 men, 32 women; 65.80 ± 11.47 years) who underwent radical surgery between 2012 and 2022 were included. Factors affecting overall survival and disease‐free survival according to the haemoglobin, albumin, lymphocyte, and platelet score were examined. Patients were categorised into low‐ and high‐score groups using optimal cut‐off values obtained from receiver operating characteristic curve analysis.

Results

The low‐score group had poorer overall and disease‐free survival (p < 0.001 each). Multivariate analysis identified alcohol consumption (hazard ratio [HR], 3.83; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.56–9.41, p = 0.003); vascular invasion (HR, 3.97; 95% CI: 1.60–9.85, p = 0.003); and the haemoglobin, albumin, lymphocyte, and platelet score (HR, 0.39; 95% CI: 0.20–0.78, p = 0.007) as independent prognostic factors for overall survival and vascular (HR, 3.66; 95% CI: 1.79–7.50, p < 0.001) and lymphovascular (HR, 2.44; 95% CI: 1.36–4.41, p = 0.003) invasion as independent prognostic factors for disease‐free survival.

Conclusion

The preoperative haemoglobin, albumin, lymphocyte, and platelet score may be a significant prognostic factor for patients with oral squamous cell carcinoma undergoing radical surgery.
HOW DO YOU SOLVE A PROBLEM LIKE NAILS? A NEW, MULTI‐PERIOD METHODOLOGY AND TYPOLOGY FOR RECORDING IRON NAILS
Authors: Manby Katie J B
Published: April 2024

This paper sets out new recommendations for recording structural iron nails. Despite their ubiquity, iron nails have received limited analytical and interpretative attention and recording practices are highly variable. Too often current recording is time‐consuming and costly without providing meaningful information. This paper proposes a new recording methodology, developed through analysis of the Roman structural nail assemblage from the MHI A14 Cambridge‐Huntingdon excavations alongside experiments in nail shaping, with wider context provided by medieval and post‐medieval assemblages from the City of London. This approach includes a new nail typology, recommendations for bulk recording of basic details for whole assemblages (using counts and typologies), alongside detailed recording (shank morphology and further metric data) for certain nail groups. Shank morphology is a particularly important aspect proposed here, being indicative of how nails were used in antiquity.
Physiological and molecular responses in phosphorus‐hyperaccumulating Polygonum species to high phosphorus exposure
Authors: Ye Daihua , Xie Min , Liu Tao , Huang Huagang , Zhang Xizhou , Yu Haiying , Zheng Zicheng , Wang Yongdong , Tang Yu , Li Tingxuan
Published: April 2024

Phosphorus (P)‐hyperaccumulators for phytoextraction from P‐polluted areas generally show rapid growth and accumulate large amounts of P without any toxicity symptom, which depends on a range of physiological processes and gene expression patterns that have never been explored. We investigated growth, leaf element concentrations, P fractions, photosynthetic traits, and leaf metabolome and transcriptome response in amphibious P‐hyperaccumulators, Polygonum hydropiper and P. lapathifolium, to high‐P exposure (5 mmol L−1), with 0.05 mmol L−1 as the control. Under high‐P exposure, both species demonstrated good growth, allocating more P to metabolite P and inorganic P (Pi) accompanied by high potassium and calcium. The expression of a cluster of unigenes associated with photosynthesis was maintained or increased in P. lapathifolium, explaining the increase in net photosynthetic rate and the rapid growth under high‐P exposure. Metabolites of trehalose metabolism, including trehalose 6‐phosphate and trehalose, were sharply increased in both species by the high‐P exposure, in line with the enhanced expression of associated unigenes, indicating that trehalose metabolic pathway was closely related to high‐P tolerance. These findings elucidated the physiological and molecular responses involved in the photosynthesis and trehalose metabolism in P‐hyperaccumulators to high‐P exposure, and provides potential regulatory pathways to improve the P‐phytoextraction capability.
SlCathB2 as a negative regulator mediates a novel regulatory pathway upon high‐temperature stress response in tomato
Authors: Wen Junqin , Zhou Rong , Jiang Fangling , Chen Zheng , Sun Mintao , Li Haolong , Wu Zhen
Published: April 2024

High‐temperature stress (HS) is a major abiotic stress that affects the yield and quality of plants. Cathepsin B‐like protease 2 (CathB2) has been reported to play a role in developmental processes and stress response, but its involvement in HS response has not been identified. Here, overexpression, virus‐induced gene silencing (VIGS)and RNA‐sequencing analysis were performed to uncover the functional characteristics of SlCathB2‐1 and SlCathB2‐2 genes for HS response in tomato. The results showed that overexpression of SlCathB2‐1 and SlCathB2‐2 resulted in reduced heat tolerance of tomato to HS while silencing the genes resulted in enhanced heat tolerance. RNA‐sequencing analysis revealed that the heat shock proteins (HSPs) exhibited higher expression in WT than in SlCathB2‐1 and SlCathB2‐2 overexpression lines. Furthermore, the possible molecular regulation mechanism underlying SlCathB2‐1 and SlCathB2‐2‐mediated response to HS was investigated. We found that SlCathB2‐1 and SlCathB2‐2 negatively regulated antioxidant capacity by regulating a set of genes involved in antioxidant defence and reactive oxygen species (ROS) signal transduction. We also demonstrated that SlCathB2‐1 and SlCathB2‐2 positively regulated ER‐stress‐induced PCD (ERSID) by regulating unfolded protein response (UPR) gene expression. Furthermore, SlCathB2‐1 and SlCathB2‐2 interacting with proteasome subunit beta type‐4 (PBA4) was identified in the ERSID pathway using yeast two‐hybrid (Y2H) analysis and bimolecular fluorescence complementation (BiFC) screening. Overall, the study identified both SlCathB2‐1 and SlCathB2‐2 as new negative regulators to HS and presented a new HS response pathway. This provided the foundation for the construction of heat‐tolerant molecular mechanisms and breeding strategies aiming to improve the thermotolerance of tomato plants.
Characterization of a CrPME indicates its possible role in determining vindoline accumulation in Catharanthus roseus leaves
Authors: Singh Pooja , Yadav Seema , Shah Saumya , Shanker Karuna , Sundaresan Velusamy , Shukla Ashutosh K.
Published: April 2024

The leaf‐specific Catharanthus roseus alkaloid, vindoline, is the major bottleneck precursor in the production of scarce and costly anticancer bisindoles (vincristine and vinblastine). The final steps of its biosynthesis and storage occur in the laticifers. Earlier, we have shown that vindoline content is directly related to laticifer number. Pectin remodeling enzymes, like pectin methylesterase (PME), are known to be involved in laticifer development. A search in the croFGD yielded a leaf‐abundant CrPME isoform that co‐expressed with a few vindoline biosynthetic genes. Full‐length cloning, tissue‐specific expression profiling, and in silico analysis of CrPME were carried out. It was found to possess all the specific characteristics of a typical plant PME. Transient silencing (through VIGS) and overexpression of CrPME in C. roseus indicated a direct relationship between its expression and vindoline content. Comparative analysis of transcript abundance and enzyme activity in three familial C. roseus genotypes differing significantly in their vindoline content and laticifer count (CIM‐Sushil > Dhawal > Nirmal) also corroborated the positive relationship of CrPME expression with vindoline content. This study highlights the possible role of CrPME, a cell wall remodeling enzyme, in modulating laticifer‐associated secondary metabolism.
Use of thermography in the long‐term evaluation of scrotal surface temperature and its impact on seminal quality in stallions
Authors: Freitas M. L. , Viana J. H. M. , Dode M. A. N. , Braga T. R. C. , de Oliveira R. A.
Published: April 2024

Scrotal surface thermography is a non‐invasive method for assessing testicular thermoregulation in stallions; however, few studies have explored the application of this technique concerning the thermal physiology of equine reproductive systems. This study aimed to evaluate the consistency of testicular thermoregulation in stallions over a year using thermography to measure the scrotal surface temperature (SST). Moreover, we assessed the best region for measuring the surface body temperature compared with the SST. Ten light‐breed stallions were used in the experiment. Thermographic images of the scrotal and body surfaces (neck and abdomen) were captured. Fresh, cooled and frozen–thawed semen samples were evaluated to verify the impact of thermoregulation on semen quality. Testicular thermoregulation was maintained throughout the year in stallions amidst changes in the external temperature, as evidenced by the weak correlation between the SST and ambient temperature. A lower correlation was observed between the environmental temperature and body surface temperature (BTS) obtained from the abdomen (BTS‐A; R = .4772; p < .0001) than with that obtained from the neck (BTS‐N; R = .7259; p < .0001). Moreover, both BTS‐A and SST were simultaneously captured in a single image. The consistent quality of the fresh, cooled and frozen semen suggests efficient thermoregulation in stallions throughout the year.
The novel HLA‐B*44:48:02 allele characterised by two different sequencing‐based typing techniques
Authors: Dhuyser Adèle , Pérès Michaël , Clément Sandra , Morel Thomas , Aarnink Alice
Published: April 2024

The novel allele HLA‐B*44:48:02 differs from HLA‐B*44:48:01 by one synonymous nucleotide substitution in exon 3.
The novel HLA‐A*36:14 allele characterised by two different sequencing‐based typing techniques
Authors: Dhuyser Adèle , Pérès Michaël , Clément Sandra , Morel Thomas , Aarnink Alice
Published: April 2024

The novel allele HLA‐A*36:14 differs from HLA‐A*36:01:01:01 by one non‐synonymous nucleotide substitution in exon 4.
Detection of the HLA‐C*07:04:29 allele in a Chinese individual
Authors: Zhang Wei , Dong Lina , Li Ying , Chen Nanying , Zhu Faming
Published: April 2024

HLA‐C*07:04:29 differs from HLA‐C*07:04:01:01 by a single substitution in exon 4.
Detection of the novel HLA‐B*55:01:31, HLA‐C*07:1113 alleles and confirmation of HLA‐C*12:392
Authors: Loginova Maria , Druzhinina Svetlana , Paramonov Igor
Published: April 2024

Novel HLA‐B*55:01:31, HLA‐C*07:1113 alleles and confirmatory HLA‐C*12:392 allele were detected during the HLA typing process.
One Size Does Not Fit All: Idiographic Computational Models Reveal Individual Differences in Learning and Meta‐Learning Strategies
Authors: Haile Theodros M. , Prat Chantel S. , Stocco Andrea
Published: April 2024

Complex skill learning depends on the joint contribution of multiple interacting systems: working memory (WM), declarative long‐term memory (LTM) and reinforcement learning (RL). The present study aims to understand individual differences in the relative contributions of these systems during learning. We built four idiographic, ACT‐R models of performance on the stimulus‐response learning, Reinforcement Learning Working Memory task. The task consisted of short 3‐image, and long 6‐image, feedback‐based learning blocks. A no‐feedback test phase was administered after learning, with an interfering task inserted between learning and test. Our four models included two single‐mechanism RL and LTM models, and two integrated RL‐LTM models: (a) RL‐based meta‐learning, which selects RL or LTM to learn based on recent success, and (b) a parameterized RL‐LTM selection model at fixed proportions independent of learning success. Each model was the best fit for some proportion of our learners (LTM: 68.7%, RL: 4.8%, Meta‐RL: 13.25%, bias‐RL:13.25% of participants), suggesting fundamental differences in the way individuals deploy basic learning mechanisms, even for a simple stimulus‐response task. Finally, long‐term declarative memory seems to be the preferred learning strategy for this task regardless of block length (3‐ vs 6‐image blocks), as determined by the large number of subjects whose learning characteristics were best captured by the LTM only model, and a preference for LTM over RL in both of our integrated‐models, owing to the strength of our idiographic approach.
Knockout of endoplasmic reticulum‐localized molecular chaperone HSP90.7 impairs seedling development and cellular auxin homeostasis in Arabidopsis
Authors: Noureddine Jenan , Mu Bona , Hamidzada Homaira , Mok Wai Lam , Bonea Diana , Nambara Eiji , Zhao Rongmin
Published: April 2024

The Arabidopsis endoplasmic reticulum‐localized heat shock protein HSP90.7 modulates tissue differentiation and stress responses; however, complete knockout lines have not been previously reported. In this study, we identified and analyzed a mutant allele, hsp90.7‐1, which was unable to accumulate the HSP90.7 full‐length protein and showed seedling lethality. Microscopic analyses revealed its essential role in male and female fertility, trichomes and root hair development, proper chloroplast function, and apical meristem maintenance and differentiation. Comparative transcriptome and proteome analyses also revealed the role of the protein in a multitude of cellular processes. Particularly, the auxin‐responsive pathway was specifically downregulated in the hsp90.7‐1 mutant seedlings. We measured a much‐reduced auxin content in both root and shoot tissues. Through comprehensive histological and molecular analyses, we confirmed PIN1 and PIN5 accumulations were dependent on the HSP90 function, and the TAA‐YUCCA primary auxin biosynthesis pathway was also downregulated in the mutant seedlings. This study therefore not only fulfilled a gap in understanding the essential role of HSP90 paralogs in eukaryotes but also provided a mechanistic insight on the ER‐localized chaperone in regulating plant growth and development via modulating cellular auxin homeostasis.
On the Epistemic Role of Narrative Features in Determining Unsubstantiated Scientific Practices
Authors: Mnasri Salaheddine , Jaber Fadi , Jovic Marina
Published: April 2024

Purpose: This study explores the disciplinary narrative structured in a specific scientific context: cancer research. Specifically, it examines the narratives of ten biologists vis-à-vis the use of machines and consumables within a cancer research lab in Belgium. The aim is to answer the following main research question: What is the relationship between the scientists and the lab's machines and consumables?Design: A qualitative analysis is conducted over 18 months of a) participant-observation recordings, b) semi-structured individual interviews, and c) collective interviews with ten lab scientists. The analysis is guided by Walter Fisher's narrative paradigm and Mona Baker's narrative features.Findings: The findings expose a problematic relationship between the scientists and their lab machines and suggest that scientists trust machines and consumables unquestionably. This problematic relationship is evidenced as the scientists' narratives violate four narrative features: 1) temporality, 2) causal emplotment, 3) relationality, and 4) selective appropriation. The study claims that these narrative features are well-positioned to identify unsubstantiated scientific practices.
Moderating Effect of Parents’ Anxiety about Their Children’s Education between Parent WeChat Group Use and Online Support among Chinese Parents
Authors: Wang Peng , Syed Zainudin Sharifah Sofiah , Mohd Hasan Nurul Ain , Liu Lu
Published: April 2024

Previous studies have investigated the influence of social media as a digital resource for parental support. However, little research is available regarding parent WeChat groups and their impact in providing online parenting support. Given that parents in China frequently have specific anxiety around their children's education, this is an important research area. Thus, this study examines the moderating effect of Parents’ Anxiety about Their Children’s Education (PAE) in the relationship between parents WeChat group use and online support. Using a sample of primary school parents (N = 493), the study found a positive association between parents WeChat group use and online support. The results indicated that PAE moderated the association between parents WeChat group engagement and online support, but not for the relationship between parents WeChat group intensity and online support. This study contributes to expanding the literature in WeChat group use, online support and PAE in East Asian countries with similar social and cultural contexts.
Acute effects of MitoQ on vascular endothelial function are influenced by cardiorespiratory fitness and baseline FMD in middle‐aged and older adults
Authors: Carlini Nicholas A. , Harber Matthew P. , Fleenor Bradley S.
Published: April 2024

A key mechanism promoting vascular endothelial dysfunction is mitochondrial‐derived reactive oxygen species (mtROS). Aerobic exercise preserves endothelial function in preclinical models by lowering mtROS. However, the effects of mtROS on endothelial function in exercising and non‐exercising adults is limited. In a double‐blind, randomized, placebo‐controlled crossover study design 23 (10 M/13 F, age 62.1 ± 11.5 years) middle‐aged and older (MA/O, ≥45 years) adults were divided into two groups: exercisers (EX, n = 11) and non‐exercisers (NEX, n = 12). All participants had endothelial function (brachial artery flow‐mediated dilatation, FMDBA) measured before and ∼1 h after mitoquinone mesylate (MitoQ) (single dose, 80 mg) and placebo supplementation. A two‐way repeated measures ANOVA was used to determine the effects of MitoQ and placebo on FMDBA. Pearson correlations assessed the association between the change in FMDBA with MitoQ and baseline FMDBA and cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF). Compared with placebo, MitoQ increased FMDBA in NEX by + 2.1% (MitoQ pre: 4.9 ± 0.4 vs. post: 7.0 ± 0.4 %, P = 0.004, interaction) but not in EX (P = 0.695, interaction). MitoQ also increased endothelial function in adults with a FMDBA <6% (P < 0.0001, interaction) but not >6% (P = 0.855, interaction). Baseline FMDBA and CRF were correlated (r = 0.44, P = 0.037), whereas the change in FMDBA with MitoQ was inversely correlated with CRF (r = ‐0.66, P < 0.001) and baseline FMDBA (r = ‐0.73, P < 0.0001). The relationship between the change in FMDBA and baseline FMDBA remained correlated after adjusting for CRF (r = ‐0.55, P = 0.007). These data demonstrate that MitoQ acutely improves FMDBA in NEX and EX adults who have a baseline FMDBA <6%.

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Key points

A key age‐related change contributing to increased cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk is vascular endothelial dysfunction due to increased mitochondrial‐derived reactive oxygen species (mtROS).

Aerobic exercise preserves endothelial function via suppression of mtROS in preclinical models but the evidence in humans is limited.

In the present study, a single dose of the mitochondria‐targeted antioxidant, mitoquinone mesylate (MitoQ), increases endothelial function in non‐exercisers with lower cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) but not in exercisers with higher CRF.

The acute effects of MitoQ on endothelial function in middle‐aged and older adults (MA/O) are influenced by baseline endothelial function independent of CRF.

These data provide initial evidence that the acute MitoQ‐enhancing effects on endothelial function in MA/O adults are influenced, in part, via CRF and baseline endothelial function.
Integral Sliding Mode Disturbance Observer-Based Preview Repetitive Control
Authors: Lan Yonghong , Luo Zhao
Published: April 2024

This paper deals with the problem of integral sliding mode disturbance observer (ISDOB)-based preview repetitive control (PRC) for a class of nonlinear systems subject to external disturbances and nonlinearity. First, an ISDOB-based PRC law is presented to estimate and compensate the exogenous disturbances and nonlinearity. Next, by using a new equality constraint, a continuous-discrete two-dimensional (2D) system is established. Then, the stability of the combined controller–observer system is derived on the basis of a Lyapunov analysis, 2D system theory, and the singular-value-decomposition technique. By solving an linear matrix inequality (LMI), the gains of the controller and state observer can be obtained. Finally, two numerical examples are provided to illustrate the effectiveness and superiority of the proposed method.
Few-Shot Classification of Wafer Bin Maps Using Transfer Learning and Ensemble Learning
Authors: Kim Hyeonwoo , Yoon Heegeon , Kim Heeyoung
Published: April 2024

The high cost of collecting and annotating wafer bin maps (WBMs) necessitates few-shot WBM classification, i.e., classifying WBM defect patterns using a limited number of WBMs. Existing few-shot WBM classification algorithms mainly utilize meta-learning methods that leverage knowledge learned in several episodes. However, meta-learning methods require a large amount of additional real WBMs, which can be unrealistic. To help train a network with a few real-WBMs while avoiding this challenge, we propose the use of simulated WBMs to pre-train a classification model. Specifically, we employ transfer learning by pre-training a classification network with sufficient amounts of simulated WBMs and then fine-tuning it with a few real-WBMs. We further employ ensemble learning to overcome the overfitting problem in transfer learning by fine-tuning multiple sets of classification layers of the network. A series of experiments on a real-dataset demonstrate that our model outperforms the meta-learning methods that are widely used in few-shot WBM classification. Additionally, we empirically verify that transfer and ensemble learning, the two most important yet simple components of our model, reduce the prediction bias and variance in few-shot scenarios without a significant increase in training time.
Endwall Contouring for Improving Aerodynamic Performance in a High-Pressure Turbine Cascade
Authors: Du Zhengshuai , Cai Le , Chen Yingjie , Wang Songtao , Tang Hongfei , Zeng Jun
Published: April 2024

The endwall contouring has proven to be an effective technique in controlling the impacts of secondary flow within turbomachinery. A baseline cascade with the original axisymmetric endwall (BASE) has been redesigned with a non-axisymmetric contoured shroud endwall (EW-B1), and both configurations are investigated through experimental and numerical methods. The endwall is profiled through the B-spline surface method with the purpose of reducing the overall total pressure loss at the exit. The experimental studies involve flow field traverses at the exits of both cascades. Numerical calculations are conducted to gain a deeper understanding of the effects of endwall contouring. The numerical results exhibit good agreement with the experimental results, both in loss and flow angle. The results demonstrate a significant reduction in losses and secondary kinetic energy in EW-B1. The causes of the high-loss region and the overturning near the shroud are analyzed using computational fluid dynamics (CFD), as well as the changes in pressure fields and vortex structures within the cascade passage. The weakening of the horseshoe vortex and the radial movement of the passage vortex are confirmed to be the primary reasons for losses reduction.
Influence of a Pair of Unequal Rotational Fluxes on Entrained Gaseous Filament
Authors: Panda Santosh Kumar , Rana Basanta Kumar
Published: April 2024

Efforts are made to elucidate a comprehensive analysis of entrainment dynamics triggered by a couple of unequal rotational fluxes within a viscous pool. Cylindrical rollers are employed to establish the rotational field. The top drum is equally submerged in both phases and also it provides a constant rotational inertia. Concomitantly, the bottom roller is completely submerged in the viscous bath, and it provides an unequal rotational strength in reference to top roller. The average rotational strength of both rollers is measured using average Capillary number (Caavg). The entrainment phenomenon is strongly influenced by both Caavg and gap between the rollers (W/D). Characterization of entrained filament is elucidated by predicting the horizontal distance (L*), radial distance (r*), temporal vertical displacement (Y*), maximum vertical displacement (Ymax*), width (H*), and location of V-shaped diversion (Øs*). Characterization of liquid tip is performed by measuring the travel rate (γ*) along periphery of drum from receding to advancing junction. Air mass ejection from filament tip is analyzed by estimating the first bubble ejection time (t1st*), volume of accumulated of ejected gaseous masses (v*), and ejection frequency (f). Furthermore, the effect of gravitational pull (specified by Archimedes number, Ar) and viscous drag (measured by Morton number, Mo) on the pattern of entrained air filament is described. Lastly, an analytical framework is established to determine the width of the V-junction by balancing the important influencing forces, which are strongly affecting the filament. Analytical observations show a satisfactory agreement with numerical findings.
Research on Prediction Methods for Eccentric Wear of the Slipper Pair in Axial Piston Pumps and Lubrication Performance Analysis
Authors: Du Zunling , Zhang Yimin , Lu Wenjia , Huang Weibo
Published: April 2024

The axial piston pump (APP) is the core power component of hydraulic systems. Its friction pair wear can cause the degradation of piston pump performance until the function is completely lost or the service life is terminated. The slipper pair, prone to wear failure, is selected as the research object in this paper. The prediction method for the eccentric wear of the slipper pair is established, and the gradual change rules of the performance with wear accumulation are explored. The micro-surface rough peak contact and the stress state of the slipper pair are analyzed, and the mixed lubrication model of the slipper pair is established based on the elastohydrodynamic lubrication (EHL) model of the slipper pair. Grid discretization of a sealing belt of the slipper pair is carried out based on two-body abrasive wear and Archard adhesive wear models to improve the prediction method for eccentric wear of the slipper pair. The effectiveness of the proposed method is verified by a surface morphology analysis of the worn slipper. The results showed that the wear depth and wear width of the outer edge of the slipper bottom surface are positively correlated with the oil discharge pressure and the inclination angle of the swashplate, and negatively correlated with the rotational speed and the dynamic oil viscosity. The outer edge of the slipper is wedged after eccentric wear, and the hydrodynamic effect of the lubricating oil film of the slipper pair is enhanced. Hence, proper wear can improve the lubrication performance of the slipper pair.
Transient-assisted plasma etching (TAPE): Concept, mechanism, and prospects
Authors: Fathzadeh Atefeh , Bezard Philippe , Darnon Maxime , Manders Inge , Conard Thierry , Hoflijk Ilse , Lazzarino Frederic , de Gendt Stefan
Published: April 2024

Atomic layer etching (ALE) schemes are often deemed economically unviable due to their slow pace and are not suited for every material/hard-mask combination. Conversely, plasma etching presents pattern profile challenges because of its inability to independently control ion and neutral flux. In this work, we introduce a new cyclic transient-based process, called transient-assisted plasma etching (TAPE). A cycle of TAPE is a short exposure step to a sustained flow of reactant before the reactant gas injection is stopped in the second step, resulting in a plasma transient. As the plasma ignites and a substantial amount of etchant remains, a chemically driven etching process occurs, akin to conventional etching. Later in the transient, the modified surface is exposed to a reduced etchant quantity and a sustained ion bombardment, in a similar way to ALE. The cointegration of conventional etching and atomic layer etching allows interesting compromises between etch control and processing time. Going for a transient plasma allows to provide the time and conditions needed for the necessary plasma-surface interactions to occur in one step. In this perspective, the mechanisms behind etch rate, profile correction, and conservation of surface composition using amorphous carbon, as a benchmark, are discussed.
Surface treatment of TaN for sub-2 nm, smooth, and conducting atomic layer deposition Ru films
Authors: Feit Corbin , Kumar Udit , Islam Md. Rafiqul , Tomar Luis , Berriel S. Novia , Gaskins John T. , Hopkins Patrick E. , Seal Sudipta , Banerjee Parag
Published: April 2024

Atomic layer deposition (ALD) of ruthenium (Ru) is being investigated for next generation interconnects and conducting liners for copper metallization. However, integration of ALD Ru with diffusion barrier refractory metal nitrides, such as tantalum nitride (TaN), continues to be a challenge due to its slow nucleation rates. Here, we demonstrate that an ultraviolet-ozone (UV-O3) pretreatment of TaN leads to an oxidized surface that favorably alters the deposition characteristics of ALD Ru from islandlike to layer-by-layer growth. The film morphology and properties are evaluated via spectroscopic ellipsometry, atomic force microscopy, electrical sheet resistance measurements, and thermoreflectance. We report a 1.83 nm continuous Ru film with a roughness of 0.19 nm and a sheet resistance of 10.8 KΩ/□. The interface chemistry between TaN and Ru is studied by x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. It is shown that UV-O3 pretreatment, while oxidizing TaN, enhances Ru film nucleation and limits further oxidation of the underlying TaN during ALD. An oxygen “gettering” mechanism by TaN is proposed to explain reduced oxygen content in the Ru film and higher electrical conductivity compared to Ru deposited on native-TaN. This work provides a simple and effective approach using UV-O3 pretreatment for obtaining sub-2 nm, smooth, and conducting Ru films on TaN surfaces.