bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Validation of a Radio frequency identification system for tracking location of laying hens in a quasi-commercial aviary system
Authors: Gebhardt-Henrich Sabine G. , Kashev Alexander , Petelle Matthew B. , Toscano Michael J.
Published: February 2023

Abstract

Cage-free housing is increasingly chosen in Europe, North America, and Australia as an animal-welfare friendly farm system for laying hens. However, hens are kept in large numbers in those systems which makes checking for health and welfare difficult and individuals cannot be identified. Tracking systems like radio frequency identification allow researchers to monitor these individuals almost continuously. Individual tracking data has revealed substantial individual variation in movement patterns, however, in recent studies, only a subset of animals per flock was tracked. We applied an RFID tracking system to monitor all 1125 laying hens of a flock, which were divided into 5 pens of 225 birds each in a barn with an aviary system. In each pen, 26 antennas were placed on the edges of three tiers and in the litter. For validation purposes, 3 hens in 2 connected pens were fitted with colored backpacks. They were recorded on video and their location throughout the pen was taken from the video and compared with registrations from the RFID system. For 93% of compared transitions, the RFID data matched the observational data regarding the tier or litter whereas the value fell to 39% for specific antennae. When the antennae on the litter were excluded for the validation, the match on tier-level was at least 98% but on antenna-level it remained lower than 50%. The sensitivity of the detection of tiers/litter but not antennae differed among the three hens. We conclude that the RFID tracking system was suitable for studying the movement pattern of individual hens among tiers in an aviary system in a reliable way but tracking birds on the litter needs to be improved.
Effectiveness of an ultraviolet-C disinfection system for inactivatingClostridioides difficilespores in critical areas of a simulated patient room
Authors: Koutras Carolina , Wade Richard L.
Published: February 2023

Clostridioides difficileinfections (CDI) pose a significant threat to patient safety in healthcare facilities. In this study, we investigated the effectiveness of an ultraviolet-C (UV-C) disinfection system in reducingC. difficilesurface contamination in a simulated patient room.

The results showed an overall 98.17% reduction inC. difficilespores after UV-C treatment of directly exposed and shadowed areas, an efficiency that translated to a 4.91% reduction per minute of room vacancy. This study demonstrates that UV-C disinfection is an effective method for reducingC. difficilespores in healthcare settings, and that efficiency can be improved with shorter setup times and optimal device placement.
Mutualism on Australian heritage breed farms
Authors: Gressier Catie
Published: February 2023

For millennia, humans and domesticated animals have lived interdependently. In return for shelter, feed and care, animals have provided people with diverse material and symbolic resources within high‐stakes mutualistic relationships. However, mutualisms are always susceptible to ‘cheaters’, where one partner enjoys the benefits without providing adequate reciprocation. When considering mutualisms on an ethnographic scale, industrial agriculture's reduction of animals to unidimensional commodities can be seen to constitute such cheating. By analyzing the practices of nourishment, procreation and protection on Australian heritage breed farms, where breed diversity and convivial interspecies reciprocity are valued above profit, this essay offers a case study of a more nuanced mutualism within the domestication nexus. Since partners in a mutualistic relationship tend to face a shared fate, protecting the integrity of these relationships is critical in an era where climate change and ecosystem decline are both hastened by and detrimental to agriculture.
Alcohol‐induced changes in mesostriatal resting‐state functional connectivity are linked to sensation seeking in young adults
Authors: Morales Angelica M. , Gilbert Sydney , Hart Elijah , Jones Scott A. , Boyd Stephen J. , Mitchell Suzanne H. , Nagel Bonnie J.
Published: February 2023

Background

Studies in animals and humans suggest that greater levels of sensation seeking and alcohol use are related to individual differences in drug‐induced dopamine release. However, it remains unclear whether drug‐induced alterations in the functional synchrony between mesostriatal regions are related to sensation seeking and alcohol use.

Methods

In this within‐subject masked‐design study, 21‐year‐old participants (n = 34) underwent functional magnetic resonance imaging to measure ventral tegmental area (VTA) resting‐state functional connectivity to the striatum after receiving alcohol (target blood alcohol concentration 0.08 g/dL) or placebo. Participants also completed the UPPS‐P Impulsive Behavior Scale to assess sensation seeking, the Young Adult Alcohol Consequences Questionnaire, and self‐reported patterns of alcohol and drug use.

Results

Voxel‐wise analyses within the striatum demonstrated that during the alcohol condition (compared with placebo) young adults had less connectivity between the VTA and bilateral caudate (p < 0.05 corrected). However, young adults exhibiting smaller alcohol‐induced decreases or increases in VTA‐left caudate connectivity reported greater sensation seeking.

Conclusion

These findings provide novel information about how acute alcohol impacts resting‐state connectivity, an effect that may be driven by the complex pre and postsynaptic effects of alcohol on various neurotransmitters including dopamine. Further, alcohol‐induced differences in VTA connectivity represent a plausible mechanistic substrate underlying sensation seeking.
A consumption‐based analysis of extinction risk in Australia
Authors: Irwin Amanda , Geschke Arne
Published: February 2023

Australia has an important role to play in protecting biodiversity, yet has a poor track record in preventing species extinctions. While invasive species and fire regimes are significant contributors to extinction risk in Australia, many species are threatened by habitat loss and other activities that support demand for products and services. Here, we connect the direct impact on in‐scope species to the final consumption ultimately supported by those activities, quantifying a territorial and consumption extinction‐risk footprint for each economic sector, state, territory, and local government area. We identify consumption of goods and services provided by the construction sector as the most significant consumption driver of extinction risk and show that 30% of Australia's extinction‐risk footprint is exported. Our findings highlight the importance of local government as the last line of defense against species extinctions and suggest that programs that influence consumption behavior may be required to reduce extinction risk in Australia.
Factors influencing the presence of potentially explosive gases during colonoscopy: Results of the SATISFACTION study
Authors: Carnovali Marino , Spada Cristiano , Uebel Peter , Bocus Paolo , Cannizzaro Renato , Cavallaro Flaminia , Cesana Bruno Mario , Cesaro Paola , Costamagna Guido , Di Paolo Dhanai , Ferrari Angelo Paulo , Hinkel Carsten , Kashin Sergey , Massella Arianna , Melnikova Ekaterina , Orsatti Anna , Ponchon Thierry , Prada Alberto , Radaelli Franco , Sferrazza Sandro , Soru Pietro , Testoni Pier Alberto , Tontini Gian Eugenio , Vecchi Maurizio , Fiori Giancarla ,   the SATISFACTION Study Group
Published: February 2023

This study tested the hypothesis that bowel preparation with mannitol should not affect the colonic concentration of H2 and CH4. Therefore, the SATISFACTION study, an international, multicenter, randomized, parallel‐group phase II–III study investigated this issue. The phase II dose‐finding part of the study evaluated H2, CH4, and O2 concentrations in 179 patients randomized to treatment with 50 g, 100 g, or 150 g mannitol. Phase III of the study compared the presence of intestinal gases in 680 patients randomized (1:1) to receive mannitol 100 g in single dose or a standard split‐dose 2 L polyethylene glycol (PEG)‐Asc preparation (2 L PEG‐Asc). Phase II results showed that mannitol did not influence the concentration of intestinal gases. During phase III, no patient in either group had H2 or CH4 concentrations above the critical thresholds. In patients with H2 and/or CH4 levels above detectable concentrations, the mean values were below the risk thresholds by at least one order of magnitude. The results also highlighted the effectiveness of standard washing and insufflation maneuvers in removing residual intestinal gases. In conclusion, bowel cleansing with mannitol was safe as the concentrations of H2 and CH4 were the same as those found in patients prepared with 2 L PEG‐Asc. In both groups, the concentrations of gases were influenced more by the degree of cleansing achieved and the insufflation and washing maneuvers performed than by the preparation used for bowel cleansing. The trial protocol was registered with ClinicalTrials.gov (https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04759885) and with EudraCT (eudract_number: 2019‐002856‐18).
Abnormal right ventricular echocardiographic findings in recovered patients associated with severe acute respiratory syndrome in COVID‐19
Authors: Barros Leandro S. A. , Castillo José M. , Lacerda Heloísa R.
Published: February 2023

Background

Right ventricular (RV) echocardiographic changes such as dilation or systolic dysfunction, and pulmonary arterial hypertension were observed in patients with COVID‐19. The aim of our study was to determine the frequency of RV echocardiographic changes in patients who have recovered from COVID‐19 and to verify the association between severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) and echocardiographic findings.

Methods

Patients who had recovered from COVID‐19 undergoing outpatient follow‐up underwent transthoracic echocardiography, and based on the findings, were divided into two groups: normal and abnormal. It was then verified whether there is an association between SARS and RV echocardiographic abnormalities in recovered patients.

Results

The study included 61 patients, with a mean age of 54.2 ± 12.0 years, 57.4% had presented with SARS. The mean period of time between COVID‐19 and the echocardiographic examination was 11.9 ± 7.0 months. Patients presented normal left ventricular systolic function. The frequency of RV echocardiographic changes in patients who had recovered from COVID‐19 was 44.3%. RV systolic dysfunction was identified in 31.1%, followed by ventricular dilation in 14.7% and pulmonary hypertension in 9.8%. An association was observed between SARS and RV echocardiographic changes in recovered patients during outpatient follow‐up (OR: 4.96; 95% CI: 1.37–17.9; p = 0.015). An association was also demonstrated between SARS and RV dilation (p = 0.007) and between SARS and systolic dysfunction (p = 0.028).

Conclusion

SARS is a risk factor for abnormal RV echocardiographic findings in patients recovered from COVID‐19.
Evaluation of heart failure admission as a surrogate for mortality in randomized clinical trials: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Miyamoto Yoshihisa , Kiyohara Yuko , Kohsaka Shun , Iwagami Masao , Tsugawa Yusuke , Briasoulis Alexandros , Kuno Toshiki
Published: February 2023

Background

Heart failure (HF) admission is used as a study endpoint in clinical trials. However, it remains unclear whether it can be a valid surrogate endpoint for mortality.

Objectives

To validate whether HF admission is a valid surrogate for mortality.

Methods

In PubMed and EMBASE, randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of interventions to treat patients with heart failure at the enrolment were searched on 13 April 2022. We extracted RCTs in which event numbers of both HF admission and all‐cause mortality were reported as either primary or secondary outcomes. Trial‐level correlations (R‐squared) between HF admission and mortality were assessed. We performed subgroup analyses by study year, follow‐up duration, baseline HF with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) or HF with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF), and whether the intervention was pharmacological. We followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐analyses guideline.

Results

A total of 117 RCTs met the criteria for inclusion. Overall, the trial‐level R‐squared between HF admission and all‐cause mortality was 0.39 (95% confidence interval (CI), 0.26 to 0.53). However, in the subgroup analyses, the trial‐level R‐squared was increased when the follow‐up duration was ≥24 months (0.70 [95% CI: 0.55, 0.85]), when intervention was pharmacological (0.51 [95% CI: 0.34, 0.68]) and when the baseline HF type was HFrEF (0.57 [95% CI: 0.42, 0.73]).

Conclusions

Our findings indicate that HF admission may not always be a valid surrogate for mortality in patients with HF. Rather, the surrogacy of HF admission may be dependent on clinical background and interventions.
Restored roadside grasslands provide an exciting template for road network conservation
Authors: Gibson‐Roy Paul , Carland Frank
Published: February 2023

This innovative roadside restoration project aimed to replace two historic non‐endemic block tree plantings with diverse native grassland. A secondary goal was to reintroduce populations of threatened species as part of the restorations (Button Wrinklewort; Clover Glycine; Hoary Sunray; and the Yam Daisy)Glycine latrobeana;Leucochrysum albicans subspr;i. The project applied what were at the time newly developed site preparation, direct‐seeding and seed production approaches designed to facilitate these outcomes. The long‐term success of these restorations (13 years) provides compelling evidence that it is feasible to restore high‐quality, low‐biomass, species‐rich native grasslands on previously exotic‐dominated roadsides. By doing so, they demonstrate that road networks offer broad canvases for restoration action and should in the future be used to create extensive native linear corridors, displaying high native biodiversity, visual and functional attributes.
Increased soil carbon storage through plant diversity strengthens with time and extends into the subsoil
Authors: Lange Markus , Eisenhauer Nico , Chen Hongmei , Gleixner Gerd
Published: February 2023

Soils are important for ecosystem functioning and service provisioning. Soil communities and their functions, in turn, are strongly promoted by plant diversity, and such positive effects strengthen with time. However, plant diversity effects on soil organic matter have mostly been investigated in the topsoil, and there are only very few long‐term studies. Thus, it remains unclear if plant diversity effects strengthen with time and to which depth these effects extend. Here, we repeatedly sampled soil to 1 m depth in a long‐term grassland biodiversity experiment. We investigated how plant diversity impacted soil organic carbon and nitrogen concentrations and stocks and their stable isotopes 13C and 15N, as well as how these effects changed after 5, 10, and 14 years. We found that higher plant diversity increased carbon and nitrogen storage in the topsoil since the establishment of the experiment. Stable isotopes revealed that these increases were associated with new plant‐derived inputs, resulting in less processed and less decomposed soil organic matter. In subsoils, mainly the presence of specific plant functional groups drove organic matter dynamics. For example, the presence of deep‐rooting tall herbs decreased carbon concentrations, most probably through stimulating soil organic matter decomposition. Moreover, plant diversity effects on soil organic matter became stronger in topsoil over time and reached subsoil layers, while the effects of specific plant functional groups in subsoil progressively diminished over time. Our results indicate that after changing the soil system the pathways of organic matter transfer to the subsoil need time to establish. In our grassland system, organic matter storage in subsoils was driven by the redistribution of already stored soil organic matter from the topsoil to deeper soil layers, for example, via bioturbation or dissolved organic matter. Therefore, managing plant diversity may, thus, have significant implications for subsoil carbon storage and other critical ecosystem services.
Interpreting Concentrations Sampled in Long‐Screened Wells with Borehole Flow: An Inverse Modeling Approach
Authors: Day‐Lewis Frederick D. , Mackley Rob D. , Thompson Joshua
Published: February 2023

New approaches are needed to assess contaminant mass based on samples from long‐screened wells and open boreholes (LSW&OB). The interpretation of concentration samples collected in LSW&OB is complicated in the presence of vertical flow within the well. In the absence of pumping (i.e., ambient conditions), the well provides a conduit for flow to occur between aquifer layers or fractures as a result of head differences. Under pumping conditions, vertical borehole flow may vary with depth depending on far‐field heads and hydraulic conductivity; furthermore, if pumping fails to overcome ambient gradients, outflow from the well to the aquifer may occur. Concentration samples thus represent flow‐weighted averages of formation concentrations, but the averaging process is commonly unknown or difficult to identify. Recognition of the importance of borehole flow has motivated the use of multi‐level wells, packers, and well liners; however, LSW&OB remain common for numerous reasons, including cost, multi‐purpose design requirements (e.g., pump‐and‐treat, water supply), logging, and installation of instrumentation. Here, we present a simple analytical model for flow and transport within a well and interaction with the surrounding aquifer. We formulate an inverse problem to estimate formation concentration based on sampled concentrations and data from flowmeter logs. The approach is demonstrated using synthetic examples. Our results (1) underscore the importance of interpreting sampled concentrations within the context of hydraulic conditions and aquifer/well exchange; (2) demonstrate the value of flowmeter measurements for this purpose; and (3) point to the potential of the new inverse approach to better interpret results from samples collected in LSW&OB.
Sudden arrhythmic death and cardiomyopathy are important causes of sudden cardiac death in the UK: results from a national coronial autopsy database
Authors: Sheppard Mary N , Westaby Joseph , Zullo Emelia , Fernandez Belmira V E , Cox Steve , Cox Alison
Published: February 2023

Aims

Sudden cardiac death (SCD) is defined as natural unexpected death in witnessed cases occurring < 1 h and in unwitnessed cases as last seen alive < 24 h. SCD due to ischaemic heart disease (IHD) is frequent in older age groups; in younger people genetic cardiac causes, including channelopathies and cardiomyopathies, are more frequent. This study aimed to present the causes of SCD from a large specialist pathology registry.

Methods and results

Cases were examined macroscopically and microscopically by two expert cardiac pathologists. The hearts from 7214 SCD cases were examined between 1994 and 2021. Sudden arrhythmic death syndrome (SADS), a morphologically normal heart, which can be underlaid by cardiac channelopathies, is most common (3821, 53%) followed by the cardiomyopathies (1558, 22%), then IHD (670, 9%), valve disease (225, 3%), congenital heart disease (213, 3%) and myocarditis/sarcoidosis (206, 3%). Hypertensive heart disease (185, 3%), aortic disease (129, 2%), vascular disease (97, 1%) and conduction disease (40, 1%) occur in smaller proportions.

Discussion

To our knowledge, this is the largest SCD cohort with autopsy findings ever reported from one country. SADS and cardiomyopathies predominate. This study highlights the importance of the autopsy in SCD, which is a significant public health concern in all age groups. Knowing the true incidence in our population will improve risk stratification and develop preventative strategies for family members. There is now a national pilot study integrating molecular autopsy and family screening into the assessment of SCD victims.
Microwave dielectric properties of tetragonal scheelite‐structured (NaY)1/2MoO4 ceramics
Authors: Wang Xiaolong , Pang Lixia , Zhou Di , Fang Zhen , Ren Sen , Liu Weiguo
Published: February 2023

(NaY)1/2MoO4 was fabricated via the solid‐state reaction method of Na2CO3, Y2O3, and MoO3. Scanning electron microscopy results demonstrated that all the (NaY)1/2MoO4 ceramics could be densified well in the sintering temperature range of 900–960°C. Results of X‐ray diffraction analysis demonstrated that the (NaY)1/2MoO4 ceramics crystallized into tetragonal scheelite structure. Sintering (NaY)1/2MoO4 at 940°C for 2 h optimized the microwave dielectric properties of the ceramics. The microwave permittivity, Q × f, and TCF of the (NaY)1/2MoO4 were 10.9, 29 000 GHz and −40.7 ppm/°C, respectively.
Shared consumption and its determinants: A systematic literature review and future research agenda
Authors: Khalek Sk Abu , Chakraborty Anirban
Published: February 2023

Shared consumption is rapidly evolving as a potential alternative consumption paradigm and hence gaining increased scholarly attention. In the last 5 years, there has been an exponential increase in research focusing on the adoption of shared consumption. There is a pressing need to consolidate and reconcile the resultant insights, which calls for an appropriate review study. Accordingly, this study aims to systematically review the extant literature on the adoption of shared consumption, synthesize the body of knowledge and provide a comprehensive understanding of this emerging consumption mode. Following the SPAR‐4‐SLR review protocol, this systematic review draws upon the theoretical guidance provided by the theory of consumption values, innovation resistance theory and value‐attitude‐behaviour hierarchy to synthesize 331 research articles. Bibliometric analysis was employed to reveal the research trend, most prominent journals, authors, articles and countries of research. A thematic analysis was carried out to synthesize the knowledge of the literature corpus. The results suggest that while economic incentives commonly drive individuals to participate in shared consumption, social incentives significantly influence participation in a peer‐to‐peer setting. Perceived risks (physical, privacy, safety and security) deter participation, while trust plays a vital role in adoption. It has also unveiled some inconclusive relationships in the literature, such as the effect of environmental considerations and materialism on sharing intention. The analysis shows that the providers' perspective has received less attention than the consumers. Further, it is important to empirically validate the findings in domains that transcend the extant industry specificity of studies. The salient observations were structured in an integrated model capturing the drivers and inhibitors of the adoption of the phenomenon. Finally, based on the TCCM framework, pertinent future research directions have been elaborated.
Information sharing and production timing strategy in a platform‐based supply chain
Authors: Zhao Qingli , Fan Zhi‐Ping , Wang Ningning
Published: February 2023

The e‐commerce platform has been adopting the agency mode to sell the products of the national brand manufacturer (NBM) while introducing its own store brand and obtaining the consumer's preference information (CPI) to reinforce the competitiveness of the store‐brand products. This paper investigates the platform's decisions on whether to share the CPI with the NBM and its impact on the production timing decisions of the platform and the NBM. The results show that the platform may benefit from CPI sharing which may also change the equilibrium production timing of the platform and the NBM from sequential decision to simultaneous decision. In addition, the equilibria of the joint decision between the CPI sharing and the production timing are obtained, which is related to the market acceptance uncertainties of the products and the competitiveness of the national brands.
Endoscopic features and clinical course of colorectal carcinoma resected by cold snare polypectomy
Authors: Yoshii Shunsuke , Hayashi Yoshito , Nakamura Takahiko , Nishiyama Osamu , Nagaike Koji , Nakamatsu Dai , Yamada Takuya , Egawa Satoshi , Ogiyama Hideharu , Yamaguchi Shinjiro , Inoue Takuya , Uema Ryotaro , Kato Minoru , Inoue Takanori , Tsujii Yoshiki , Shinzaki Shinichiro , Iijima Hideki , Michida Tomoki , Morii Eiichi , Takehara Tetsuo
Published: February 2023

Background and Aim

Cold snare polypectomy is commonly performed to remove small colorectal polyps. Accidental resection of carcinomas during this procedure has been reported. Herein, we aimed to clarify the clinicopathological features and clinical course of colorectal carcinomas resected by cold snare polypectomy.

Methods

This multicenter retrospective cohort study was conducted at 10 Japanese healthcare centers. Of the colorectal lesions resected by cold snare polypectomy between April 2016 and March 2020, lesions pathologically diagnosed as carcinoma were reviewed. Centralized histology (based on the Vienna classification) and endoscopic reviews were performed. The study endpoints were endoscopic features and clinical outcomes of cold snare polypectomy‐resected colorectal carcinomas (Vienna category ≥4.2).

Results

We reviewed 74 of the 70 693 lesions resected by cold snare polypectomy. After a central pathological review, 68 lesions were diagnosed as carcinomas. The Japan Narrow‐band imaging Expert Team (JNET) classification type 2B, lesion size ≥6 mm, and multinodular morphology were the significant endoscopic predictors of carcinoma resected by cold snare polypectomy. No adverse events related to the procedure occurred. Sixty‐three lesions were diagnosed as carcinomas within the mucosal layer, and 34 were curative resections. Of the five carcinoma lesions with submucosal invasion, additional surgery revealed remnant cancer tissues in one lesion. No local or metastatic recurrence was observed during follow‐up.

Conclusions

Although most of the carcinomas resected by cold snare polypectomy were within the mucosal layer, few lesions invading the submucosa were identified. Careful pre‐procedural endoscopic evaluation, especially focusing on the JNET classification and multinodular morphology, is recommended.
A field experiment on the effects of weekly planning behaviour on work engagement, unfinished tasks, rumination, and cognitive flexibility
Authors: Uhlig Lars , Baumgartner Vera , Prem Roman , Siestrup Katja , Korunka Christian , Kubicek Bettina
Published: February 2023

This study concerns research on self‐regulation. It examines the effects of planning behaviour, a comprehensive self‐regulatory strategy of goal setting, planning work steps, and developing alternative plans. Combining different strategies, rather than testing them in isolation, would strengthen their effects and make them more appropriate for complex work tasks. Drawing on self‐regulation theory, we propose that planning behaviour positively affects work engagement, unfinished tasks, rumination, and cognitive flexibility. Considering cognitive flexibility as an outcome provides insight into the cognitive benefits of planning behaviour. We examine person‐level cognitive demands of flexible work and predictability as moderator variables to better understand the role of contextual variables in the use of self‐regulatory strategies at work. We conducted a field experiment (N = 208 individuals; 947 weekly entries) in which we manipulated employees' weekly planning behaviour in their daily work lives. We found negative effects on unfinished tasks and weekly rumination, and positive effects on weekly cognitive flexibility. No significant moderating effects were found. Our study suggests that a brief planning manipulation at the beginning of the week may have multiple benefits and may be an important tool for improving cognitive flexibility. Future research should examine the role of time and mediating variables.
Sheaf quantization of Legendrian isotopy
Authors: Zhou Peng
Published: February 2023

Let $\{\Lambda ^\infty _t\}$ be an isotopy of Legendrians (possibly singular) in a unit cosphere bundle $S^*M$ that arise as slices of a singular Legendrian $\Lambda _I^\infty \subset S^*M \times T^*I$. Let $\mathcal {C}_t = Sh(M, \Lambda ^\infty _t)$ be the differential graded derived category of constructible sheaves on $M$ with singular support at infinity contained in $\Lambda ^\infty _t$. We prove that if the isotopy of Legendrians embeds into an isotopy of Liouville hypersurfaces, then the family of categories $\{\mathcal {C}_t\}$ is constant in $t$.
Multidisciplinary Topology Optimization Using Generative Adversarial Networks for Physics-Based Design Enhancement
Authors: Parrott Corey M. , Abueidda Diab W. , James Kai A.
Published: February 2023

The computational cost of traditional gradient-based topology optimization is amplified for multidisciplinary design optimization (MDO) problems, most notably when coupling between physics disciplines is accounted for. To alleviate this, we investigate new methods and applications of generative adversarial networks (GANs) as a surrogate for MDO. Accepting physical fields from each physics discipline as input, the trained network produces an optimal design that closely resembles that of the iterative gradient-based approach. With this model as a baseline, we introduce a novel architecture that performs physics-based design enhancement of optimal single-physics designs to produce multiphysics designs. By providing the network with boundary conditions from a secondary physics discipline, we obtain multiphysics structures while avoiding the need for costly coupled multiphysics analysis, thereby generating significant savings in computational effort. We demonstrate our approach by designing a series of structures optimized for both thermal and elastic performance. With the physics-based design enhancement GAN, we obtain thermoelastic structures that outperform those produced by the baseline multiphysics GAN architecture.
Incorporation of Novel Graphene Nanosheet Materials as Cathode Catalysts in Li–O2 Battery
Authors: Hassan Zaidi Syed Shoaib , Sigdel Shusil , Sorensen Christopher M. , Kwon Gibum , Li Xianglin
Published: February 2023

This study reports the superior performance of graphene nanosheet (GNS) materials over Vulcan XC incorporated as a cathode catalyst in Li–O2 battery. The GNSs employed were synthesized from a novel, eco-friendly, and cost-effective technique involving chamber detonation of oxygen (O2) and acetylene (C2H2) precursors. Two GNS catalysts i.e., GNS-1 and GNS-2 fabricated with 0.3 and 0.5 O2/C2H2 precursor molar ratios, respectively, were utilized in this study. Specific surface area (SSA) analysis revealed significantly higher SSA and total pore volume for GNS-1 (180 m2 g−1, 0.505 cm3 g−1) as compared with GNS-2 (19 m2 g−1, 0.041 cm3 g−1). GNS-1 exhibited the highest discharge capacity (4.37 Ah g-1) and superior cycling stability compared with GNS-2 and Vulcan XC. Moreover, GNS-1 demonstrated promising performance at higher current densities (0.2 and 0.3 mA cm−2) and with various organic electrolytes. The superior performance of GNS-1 can be ascribed to its higher mesopore volume, SSA, and optimum wettability compared to its counterparts.
Increased chromatin accessibility promotes the evolution of a transcriptional silencer in
Drosophila
Authors: Ling Liucong , Mühling Bettina , Jaenichen Rita , Gompel Nicolas
Published: February 2023

The loss of discrete morphological traits, the most common evolutionary transition, is typically driven by changes in developmental gene expression. Mutations accumulating in regulatory elements of these genes can disrupt DNA binding sites for transcription factors patterning their spatial expression, or delete entire enhancers. Regulatory elements, however, may be silenced through changes in chromatin accessibility or the emergence of repressive elements. Here, we show that increased chromatin accessibility at the gene
yellow
, combined with the gain of a repressor site, underlies the loss of a wing spot pigmentation pattern in a
Drosophila
species. The gain of accessibility of this repressive element is regulated by E93, a transcription factor governing the progress of metamorphosis. This convoluted evolutionary scenario contrasts with the parsimonious mutational paths generally envisioned and often documented for morphological losses. It illustrates how evolutionary changes in chromatin accessibility may directly contribute to morphological diversification.
Multifunctional tendon-mimetic hydrogels
Authors: Sun Mingze , Li Hegeng , Hou Yong , Huang Nan , Xia Xingyu , Zhu Hengjia , Xu Qin , Lin Yuan , Xu Lizhi
Published: February 2023

We report multifunctional tendon-mimetic hydrogels constructed from anisotropic assembly of aramid nanofiber composites. The stiff nanofibers and soft polyvinyl alcohol in these anisotropic composite hydrogels (ACHs) mimic the structural interplay between aligned collagen fibers and proteoglycans in tendons. The ACHs exhibit a high modulus of ~1.1 GPa, strength of ~72 MPa, fracture toughness of 7333 J/m
2
, and many additional characteristics matching those of natural tendons, which was not achieved with previous synthetic hydrogels. The surfaces of ACHs were functionalized with bioactive molecules to present biophysical cues for the modulation of morphology, phenotypes, and other behaviors of attached cells. Moreover, soft bioelectronic components can be integrated on ACHs, enabling in situ sensing of various physiological parameters. The outstanding mechanics and functionality of these tendon mimetics suggest their further applications in advanced tissue engineering, implantable prosthetics, human-machine interactions, and other technologies.
Observation of phononic skyrmions based on hybrid spin of elastic waves
Authors: Cao Liyun , Wan Sheng , Zeng Yi , Zhu Yifan , Assouar Badreddine
Published: February 2023

Skyrmions with topologically stable configuration have shown a promising route toward high-density magnetic and photonic information processing due to their defect-immune and low-driven energy. Here, we experimentally report and observe the existence of phononic skyrmions as new topological structures formed by the three-dimensional hybrid spin of elastic waves. We demonstrate that the frequency-independent spin configuration leads to ultra-broadband feature of phononic skyrmions, which can be produced in any solid structure, including chip-scale ones. We further experimentally show the excellent robustness of the flexibly movable phononic skyrmion lattices against local defects of disorder, sharp corners, and even rectangular holes. Our research opens a vibrant horizon toward an unprecedented way for elastic wave manipulation and structuration by spin configuration and offers a promising lever for alternative phononic technologies, including information processing, biomedical testing, and wave engineering.
Heparan sulfate regulates IL-21 bioavailability and signal strength that control germinal center B cell selection and differentiation
Authors: Chen Zhian , Cui Yanfang , Yao Yin , Liu Bo , Yunis Joseph , Gao Xin , Wang Naiqi , Cañete Pablo F. , Tuong Zewen Kelvin , Sun Hongjian , Wang Hao , Yang Siling , Wang Runli , Leong Yew Ann , Simon Davis David , Qin Jiahuan , Liang Kaili , Deng Jun , Wang Conan K. , Huang Yen-Hua , Roco Jonathan A. , Nettelfield Sam , Zhu Huaming , Xu Huajun , Yu Zhijia , Craik David , Liu Zheng , Qi Hai , Parish Christopher , Yu Di
Published: February 2023

In antibody responses, mutated germinal center B (B
GC
) cells are positively selected for reentry or differentiation. As the products from GCs, memory B cells and antibody-secreting cells (ASCs) support high-affinity and long-lasting immunity. Positive selection of B
GC
cells is controlled by signals received through the B cell receptor (BCR) and follicular helper T (T
FH
) cell–derived signals, in particular costimulation through CD40. Here, we demonstrate that the T
FH
cell effector cytokine interleukin-21 (IL-21) joins BCR and CD40 in supporting B
GC
selection and reveal that strong IL-21 signaling prioritizes ASC differentiation in vivo. B
GC
cells, compared with non-B
GC
cells, show significantly reduced IL-21 binding and attenuated signaling, which is mediated by low cellular heparan sulfate (HS) sulfation. Mechanistically, N-deacetylase and N-sulfotransferase 1 (Ndst1)–mediated N-sulfation of HS in B cells promotes IL-21 binding and signal strength. Ndst1 is down-regulated in B
GC
cells and up-regulated in ASC precursors, suggesting selective desensitization to IL-21 in B
GC
cells. Thus, specialized biochemical regulation of IL-21 bioavailability and signal strength sets a balance between the stringency and efficiency of GC selection.
IL-21R signal reprogramming cooperates with CD40 and BCR signals to select and differentiate germinal center B cells
Authors: Luo Wei , Conter Laura , Elsner Rebecca A. , Smita Shuchi , Weisel Florian , Callahan Derrick , Wu Shuxian , Chikina Maria , Shlomchik Mark
Published: February 2023

Both B cell receptor (BCR) and CD40 signaling are rewired in germinal center (GC) B cells (GCBCs) to synergistically induce c-MYC and phosphorylated S6 ribosomal protein (p-S6), markers of positive selection. How interleukin-21 (IL-21), a key T follicular helper (T
FH
)–derived cytokine, affects GCBCs is unclear. Like BCR and CD40 signals, IL-21 receptor (IL-21R) plus CD40 signals also synergize to induce c-MYC and p-S6 in GCBCs. However, IL-21R plus CD40 stimulation differentially affects GCBC fate compared with BCR plus CD40 ligation—engaging unique molecular mechanisms—as revealed by bulk RNA sequencing (RNA-seq), single-cell RNA-seq, and flow cytometry of GCBCs in vitro and in vivo. Whereas both signal pairs induced BLIMP1 in some GCBCs, only the IL-21R/CD40 combination induced IRF4
hi
/CD138
+
cells, indicative of plasma cell differentiation, along with CCR6
+
/CD38
+
memory B cell precursors. These findings reveal a second positive selection pathway in GCBCs, document rewired IL-21R signaling in GCBCs, and link specific T
FH
- and Ag-derived signals to GCBC differentiation.
Prescribing diabetes nutrition therapy: a qualitative study of dietitians’ experiences of carbohydrate restriction in Canada
Authors: Viljoen Ashley , Yu Katharine , Witchell Eliana , Conklin Annalijn I
Published: February 2023

Background

Diabetes care has traditionally not included nutrition therapy using carbohydrate restriction, nor has carbohydrate restriction been taught to registered dietitians (RDs) to support patients living with diabetes choosing this dietary approach. We aimed to describe the experiences and views of RDs caring for patients using therapeutic carbohydrate-restricted diets (TCR), particularly metabolic conditions such as type 2 diabetes or prediabetes.

Subjects/Methods

A qualitative study design using free-text responses from an online needs assessment survey was employed. RDs who practised in Canada were invited (n=6640) and 274 completed the survey, with 45 respondents who regularly prescribed TCR to their patients providing open-text responses (2987 words), which were analysed using inductive thematic analysis.

Results

We identified four themes characterising Canadian RDs’ experiences around prescribing TCR: interpersonal context, personal experience/knowledge, regulatory environment and patient-centredness. While these themes often interacted, each impacted TCR prescription uniquely, with patient-centred care at the core of reported experiences of prescribing.

Conclusions

There exists a variety of experiences and perspectives related to prescribing of TCR among Canadian RDs caring for patients with diabetes, and all focus on the patient’s needs, benefits and preferences. Prescribing TCR was often informed by the scientific literature yet also by RDs’ experiential knowledge. Responses highlighted a desire for evidence-based educational materials and greater discussion within the diabetes nutrition community on this topic.
Scoping review of employment resources for individuals with fetal alcohol spectrum disorder and justice involvement
Authors: Nankoo Marie M A , Panton Kirsten R , Fitzpatrick James P , Pestell Carmela F
Published: February 2023

Objectives

Individuals with fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) are over-represented within the justice system and have significant employment challenges. The primary aim of this scoping review was to ascertain available employment resources for FASD individuals particularly those involved in the justice system. Secondary aims were to determine available evidence-based interventions for the justice workforce and employment providers.

Methods

Eligibility criteria: That the resource was (a) published between 1990 and 2021, (b) in English, (c) available electronically in full text, (d) focused on strategies for improving employment outcomes of individuals with FASD and (f) developed for those aged over 15.Sources of evidence:Electronic searches of the following databases were conducted: EMBASE, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, Scopus, Web of Science and Google Scholar. Grey literature was collected via the databases ProQuest Dissertations & Theses Global, OpenGrey, GreyNet International and Grey Matters.Charting methods:Using Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews reporting guidelines, a five-stage methodological framework was employed. A quality appraisal of identified resources was conducted. Data were summarised qualitatively using a content analysis method that allowed for analysis of specific terms/themes/concepts/resource elements that resources covered, as well as a quantitative analysis of their frequency.

Results

An initial search identified 850 articles, 512 of which were obtained through online database searches, 321 through Google Scholar searches and 17 through google searches. Sixteen resources were identified as meeting inclusion criteria, including four peer-reviewed papers and 12 grey literature resources. Six of the resources extracted were deemed ‘good’ or ‘strong’ quality, with the remainder—all grey literature resources—being ‘adequate’ or ‘limited’. None of the resources identified were empirically evaluated or could be implemented synergistically. Content analysis revealed common themes addressing FASD-related employment challenges and required supports.

Conclusions

This review highlights the need for developing evidence-based employment-related resources for justice-involved people with FASD. Most of the 16 identified resources had a psychoeducational and advocacy component and described typical employment challenges with specific supports and accommodations to maximise workforce participation. However, none had been empirically evaluated, underscoring the importance of future research in this area to better inform more responsive and evidence-based employment-related programmes.

Trial registration number

doi:10.17605/OSF.IO/J5VMB.
Inhibition of myeloperoxidase enhances immune checkpoint therapy for melanoma
Authors: Liu Tracy W , Gammon Seth T , Yang Ping , Ma Wencai , Wang Jing , Piwnica-Worms David
Published: February 2023

Background

The presence of a highly immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment has limited the success of immune checkpoint therapy (ICT). Immune suppressing myeloid cells with increased production of reactive oxygen species are critical drivers of this immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. Strategies to limit these immune suppressing myeloid cells are needed to enhance response to ICT.

Methods

To evaluate the contribution of myeloperoxidase (MPO), a myeloid lineage-restricted enzyme and a major source of reactive oxygen species, to mediating ICT response, we compared treatment outcome and immune composition in wild-type, MPO-deficient (MPO−/−), and MPO inhibitor-treated wild-type mice using established primary melanoma models.

Results

Tumor growth and survival studies demonstrated that either host deficiency (MPO−/−) or pharmacological inhibition of MPO enhanced ICT response in two preclinical models of established primary melanoma in aged animals. The tumor microenvironment and systemic immune landscape underwent striking changes in infiltration of myeloid cells, T cells, B cells, and dendritic cells inMPO−/−mice; furthermore, a significant increase in myeloid cells was observed in ICT non-responders. The contribution of CD4+T cells and NK cells during ICT response also changed inMPO−/−mice. Interestingly, MPO enzymatic activity, but not protein, was increased in CD11b+Ly6G+myeloid cells isolated from marrow, spleen, and peritoneal cavities of mice bearing untreated melanoma, indicating systemic activation of innate immunity. Notably, repurposing MPO-specific inhibitors (verdiperstat, AZD5904) in combination with ICT pointedly enhanced response rates above ICT alone. Indeed, long-term survival was 100% in the YUMM3.3 melanoma model on treatment with verdiperstat plus ICT.

Conclusion

MPO contributes to ICT resistance in established melanoma. Repurposing MPO-specific inhibitors may provide a promising therapeutic strategy to enhance ICT response.
Quantum dynamics corresponding to the chaotic BKL scenario
Authors: Góźdź Andrzej , Pȩdrak Aleksandra , Piechocki Włodzimierz
Published: February 2023

We quantize the solution to the Belinski– Khalatnikov–Lifshitz (BKL) scenario using the integral quantization method. Quantization smears the gravitational singularity, preventing its localization in the configuration space. The latter is defined in terms of spatial and temporal coordinates, which are treated on the same footing that enables the respective covariance of general relativity. The relative quantum perturbations grow as the system evolves towards the gravitational singularity. The quantum randomness amplifies the deterministic classical chaos of the BKL scenario. Additionally, our results suggest that the generic singularity of general relativity can be avoided at a quantum level, giving support to the expectation that quantum gravity has a good chance of being a regular theory.
Encounters in star clusters and survival probabilities for planets
Authors: Maraboli Enrico , Mantegazza Fabio , Lodato Giuseppe
Published: February 2023

The stability of young planetary systems is strongly influenced by multiple factors, both internal and external. In this paper, we investigate the link between the environment in which young stars form and the possibility of having stable planetary systems around them. We analyze the robustness of such systems after an encounter with another star within the same stellar cluster. We employ a model for the star cluster to extract the encounter properties, such as the mass of the perturber star and its velocity. We perform numerical simulations on systems with a single planet perturbed by an external star, in order to calculate the emission probabilities of the planet. We also calculate analytically the stellar encounter rates in the cluster. We find that such probabilities are strongly dependent on the thermal velocity of the cluster. We also notice that these probabilities are generally quite small, below 3% for the systems tested by us.
Two new barium phosphides predicted by first-principles evolutionary algorithm
Authors: Wu Hong-Yun , Tang Hui , Shi Guo-Yong , Cao Kun , Liu Tian-Tian , Su Yue-Hua , Zhang Chao , Jiang Hong
Published: February 2023

Two stable barium phosphides, Ba2P and BaP, are predicted by an evolutionary algorithm and first-principles calculations. Ba2P is a layered structure and isostructural to rhombohedral anti-CdCl2. The interlayer distance between Ba–P–Ba layers is larger than the intralayer distance of the Ba–P–Ba layers. BaP adopts a body-centered orthorhombic structure composed of P dumbbells. Rhombohedral Ba2P is metallic, whereas body-centered orthorhombic BaP is a semiconductor that exhibits a band gap of 0.345 eV; the dynamical stabilities of these two compounds were confirmed by phonon calculations and analysis. These findings should encourage further experimental study of the Ba–P system.