bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Varying intensities of chronic stress induce inconsistent responses in weight and plasma metabolites in house sparrows (Passer domesticus)
Authors: Beattie Ursula K. , Fefferman Nina , Romero L. Michael
Published: July 2023

One of the biggest unanswered questions in the field of stress physiology is whether variation in chronic stress intensity will produce proportional (a gradient or graded) physiological response. We were specifically interested in the timing of the entrance into homeostatic overload, or the start of chronic stress symptoms. To attempt to fill this knowledge gap we split 40 captive house sparrows (Passer domesticus) into four groups (high stress, medium stress, low stress, and a captivity-only control) and subjected them to six bouts of chronic stress over a 6-month period. We varied the number of stressors/day and the length of each individual bout with the goal of producing groups that would experience different magnitudes of wear-and-tear. To evaluate the impact of chronic stress, at the start and end of each stress bout we measured body weight and three plasma metabolites (glucose, ketones, and uric acid) in both a fasted and fed state. All metrics showed significant differences across treatment groups, with the high stress group most frequently showing the greatest changes. However, the changes did not produce a consistent profile that matched the different chronic stress intensities. We also took samples after a prolonged recovery period of 6 weeks after the chronic stressors ended. The only group difference that persisted after 6 weeks was weight—all differences across groups in metabolites recovered. The results indicate that common blood metabolites are sensitive to stressors and may show signs of wear-and-tear, but are not reliable indicators of the intensity of long-term chronic stress. Furthermore, regulatory mechanisms are robust enough to recover within 6 weeks post-stress.
Alteration of the oral and gut microbiota in patients with Kawasaki disease
Authors: Zeng Qinghuang , Zeng Renhe , Ye Jianbin
Published: July 2023

Background

Kawasaki disease (KD) is a multi-systemic vasculitis that primarily affects children and has an unknown cause. Although an increasing number of studies linking the gut microbiota with KD, the unchallengeable etiology of KD is not available.

Methods

Here, we obtained fecal and oral samples from KD patients and healthy controls, and then we use high-throughput sequencing to examine the diversity and composition of microbiota.

Results

Results showed that both in the gut and oral microbiota, the diversity of KD patients was significantly lower than that of the healthy controls. In the gut microbiota, a higher abundance of Enterococcus (40.12% vs less than 0.1%), Bifidobacterium (20.71% vs 3.06%), Escherichia-Shigella (17.56% vs 0.61%), Streptococcus (5.97% vs 0.11%) and Blautia (4.69% vs 0.1%) was observed in the KD patients, and enrichment of Enterococcus in the patients was observed. In terms of oral microbiota, the prevalence of Streptococcus (21.99% vs 0.1%), Rothia (3.02% vs 0.1%), and Escherichia-Shigella (0.68% vs 0.0%) were significantly higher in the KD patients, with the enrichment of Streptococcus and Escherichia-Shigella. Additionally, significant differences in microbial community function between KD patients and healthy controls in the fecal samples were also observed, which will affect the colonization and reproduction of gut microbiota.

Conclusions

These results suggested that the dysbiosis of gut and oral microbiota are both related to KD pathogenesis, of which, the prevalence of Enterococcus in the gut and higher abundance of Streptococcus and Escherichia-Shigella in the oral cavity will be a potential biomarker of the KD. Overall, this study not only confirms that the disturbance of gut microbiota is a causative trigger of KD but also provides new insight into the oral microbiota involved in KD pathogenesis.
Optimization of a tri-drug treatment against lung cancer using orthogonal design in preclinical studies
Authors: Tan Jing , Wang Lijun , Song Xuming , Zhang Yijian , Song Zhenghuan , Duan Manlin
Published: July 2023

A growing body of evidence suggests that anesthetics impact the outcome of patients with cancer after surgical intervention. However, the optimal dose and underlying mechanisms of co-administered anesthetics in lung tumor therapy have been poorly studied. Here, we aimed to investigate the role of combined anesthetics propofol, sufentanil, and rocuronium in treating lung cancer using an orthogonal experimental design and to explore the optimal combination of anesthetics. First, we evaluated the effects of the three anesthetics on the proliferation and invasion of A-549 cells using Cell Counting Kit 8 and Transwell migration and invasion assays. Subsequently, we applied the orthogonal experimental design (OED) method to screen the appropriate concentrations of the combined anesthetics with the most effective antitumor activity. We found that all three agents inhibited the proliferation of A-549 cells in a dose- and time-dependent manner when applied individually or in combination, with the highest differences in the magnitude of inhibition occurring 24 h after combined drug exposure. The optimal combination of the three anesthetics that achieved the strongest reduction in cell viability was 1.4 µmol/L propofol, 2 nmol/L sufentanil, and 7.83 µmol/L rocuronium. This optimal 3-drug combination produced a more beneficial result at 24 h than either single drug. Our results provide a theoretical basis for improving the efficacy of lung tumor treatment and optimizing anesthetic strategies.
Effect of Teaching Personal and Social Responsibility (TPSR) and Teaching Games for Understanding (TGfU) Models with Self-Efficacy on Learning Outcomes of Physical Education, Sports, and Health
Authors: Marhani  , Bundu Patta , Saman Abdul , Ashar
Published: July 2023

This research aims to determine the differences in the effects of the Teaching Personal and Social Responsibility (TPSR) model and the Teaching Games for Understanding (TGfU) model on self-efficacy and learning outcomes in Physical Education and Health. The research utilizes an experimental method with a 2x2 factorial research design. The research sample consists of X, XI, and XII grade students from UPT SMA Negeri 4 Parepare. The learning material during the experiment focuses on Volleyball Game. Data collection for this research employs questionnaires and tests. The data analysis technique used in this research is a two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) at the significance level of a = 0.05 and a = 0.01. The results of the research indicate that: (1) The group of students taught using the TGfU teaching model has a higher average score compared to the group of students taught using the TPSR model, (2) There is no interaction between the self-efficacy variable and learning outcomes or the teaching model, and (3) There is a significant difference in the average scores of student learning outcomes between those taught using the TGfU model and the TPSR model.
Nondestructive and Accurate Detection of Transparent Liquid Mass Fraction Based on Snell's Law
Authors: Ying Shiyan , Huang Wei , Huang Huiling , Zheng Yilan , Yao Linhua
Published: July 2023

Based on the Snell's law, one can convert the liquid mass fraction into the spot displacement by directing a laser into the trapezoidal component containing the solution. In this physical experiment, the trapezoidal component was designed to facilitate convenient replacement of liquids, and the CCD sensor was used to accurately record the spot position. The accurate results of liquid mass fraction was achieved by fitting sinusoidal-cubic functions after theoretical modification. In this study, the refractive index of the measured solution ranges from 1.333-1.414, with an actual resolution of approximately 0.0003. The mass fraction resolution accuracy is roughly ±0.2% for sodium chloride, sucrose, and D-glucose while it is ±0.4% for ethanol solution. This resolution has increased in comparison to similar physical principle experiments, and it can now successfully fulfill the daily detection criteria for the transparent liquid mass fraction.
Effect of Nano Potassium and Nano Zinc on Growth and Yield Enhancement in Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)
Authors: Ratnam Kobagapu Mani , Singh Rajesh , Indu Thakur , Sowmya Chittimshetty Lakshmi , Swaroop Buriga Teja
Published: July 2023

The field experiment was conducted during Rabi season 2022 at experimental field of Crop Research Farm, Department of Agronomy, Naini Agricultural Institute, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology And Sciences, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, India. The soil of experimental plot was sandy loam in texture, nearly neutral in soil reaction (pH 7.3), low in organic carbon (0.48%), available nitrogen (230 kg/ha), available phosphorus (13.60 kg/ha) and available potassium (215.4 kg/ha). The treatment consists of 3 levels of Nano potassium 25, 40, 55 ppm and Nano zinc 60, 80, 120 ppm along with control. The experiment was layout in Randomized Block Design with ten treatments each replicated thrice. Higher plant height (93.43 cm), plant dry weight (26.99 g), tillers/running row meter (73.57) and the yield attributes namely spike length (11.93 cm), grains/spike (51.67), spikes/running row meter (62.90), effective tillers/running row meter (60.10), grain yield (6.61 t/ha) and straw yield (8.90 t/ha were obtained highest in the treatment 9 [Nano potassium 55ppm + Nano zinc 120ppm].
Effect of Dried Mushroom Supplementation on Muscles Composition, Nutrient Utilization and Economics in Broiler Chicken
Authors: Kumar Kailash , Kumar Satendra , Kumar Veerendra , Prakash Ved , Tripathi Sanjay Kumar , Katiyar Shiv Shanker , Saikanth D. R. K.
Published: July 2023

The experiment was conducted at poultry farm of Chandra Shekar Azad University, Kanpur during summer season of date.. to assess the muscles composition, nutrient utilization and economics on feeding dried mushroom to broiler chickens. Broiler chicken supplemented with the edible P. florida mushroom, 20g/kg of dried P. eoes mushroom, and 20g/kg of dried P. sajor caju mushroom. Day-old broiler chicks from a single hatch were weighed individually and divided into 4 groups of six birds each at random. The birds were given a basic diet for starter and finisher rations for 0–3 and 4-6 weeks, respectively. One group (G1) was kept as the control, while the remaining three groups (G2, G3, and G4) given their chicks the same basic food as G1 combined with various types of mushrooms. Groups G2, G3, and G4 were fed 20g/kg of dry P. florida mushroom, 20g/kg of dried P. eoes mushroom, and 20g/kg of dried P. sajor caju mushroom. Throughout the six-week testing period, food and drink were freely available. Feed consumption, Muscles composition and nutrient utilization values were monitored weekly. Economics was also calculated.  It was found that, muscles composition highest in G3 whereas nutrient utilization and benefit cost ratio highest in G2. The application of Pleurotuus sp.mushroom (P. florida, P.eoes, and P.sajor caju respectively) in different groups in the diet of broiler chicks improved the growth rate in summer season. The Pleurotous florida mushroom is therefore required for an improvement in growth performance during the summer.
Genetic Components and Variability Assessment for Grain Yield and Its Accrediting Traits in Maize (Zea mays L.)
Authors: Yadav Pramod Kumar , Tripathi M. K. , Tiwari Sushma , Chauhan Shailja , Tripathi Niraj , Sikarwar R. S. , Solanki R. S. , Yadav Sanjeev , Singh A. K.
Published: July 2023

Understanding the variability, heritability, and genetic advance in maize is crucial for efficient plant breeding and genetic improvement programmes. The present investigation was conducted to evaluate the various parameters related to assessment of genetic variability and nature of associations among traits affecting grain yield in 80 genotypes of maize (Zea mays L.) at the Research Farm, Department of Genetics & Plant Breeding, College of Agriculture, Gwalior, M.P., India during the Rabi seasons of 2019-20 and Kharif 2020-21. The analysis of variance revealed that highly significant differences exist among the inbred lines, their hybrids and checks for all the characters. Under irrigated and partial irrigated conditions, traits viz., days to 50 percent tasselling and silking, anthesis silking interval (ASI), plant height and membrane stability index exhibited high GCV and PCV. The characters with the highest heritability coupled with higher genetic advance were found for the traits namely: days to 50% silking and 50% tasselling, anthesis silking interval, plant height, numbers of kernel rows per cob, numbers of kernel per rows, seed yield per plant (g), numbers of cobs per plant, days to maturity, cob girth (cm), turgid weight (g), saturation water deficit and membrane stability index for both under irrigated and partial irrigated conditions. High heritability with higher genetic advance as percent of mean indicated the preponderance of additive gene action in controlling the traits. Hence direct selection of such characters would be effective in improving the yield in maize.
Influence of Integrated Nutrient Management on Growth and Quality of Pre-seasonal Ratoon Sugarcane in Vertisol
Authors: Sawale D. D. , Pharande A. L. , Yadav Govind Kumar , Kumar Pradeep
Published: July 2023

A study was conducted in an ongoing field experiment started during 2007-08 at Central Sugarcane Research Station, Padegaon, Maharashtra during 2012-13 and 2013-14 to study the effect of integrated nutrient management on yield and quality of pre-seasonal ratoon sugarcane (cv. CO-86032). The experiment consisted of eight integrated nutrient management (INM) treatments viz., 100 % of RD through organics (T1), 100 % NPK through inorganic (T2), Fertilizer as per soil test, FYM and biofertilizers (T3), 75 % of RD through organics + 25 % of RD through inorganics (T4), 50 % of RD through organics and 50 % of RD through inorganics (T5), 25 % of RD through organics + 75 % of RD through inorganics (T6), rishi-krishi tantra (T7) and jivamrut (T8) were laid down in randomized block design with replicated thrice. The results indicated that the number of millable canes, cane, top and sugar yields were recorded maximum (91.64, 132.09, 14.90 and 18.81 t ha-1 during Ist ratoon 2012-13 and 83.82, 124.69, 13.98 and 18.41 t ha-1 during IInd ratoon 2013-14, respectively) under the application of 25 % RD through organics and 75% RD through inorganic treatment (T6) and remained statistically at par with T3 (Fertilizer as per soil test, FYM @ 25 t ha-1 and biofertilizers as seed treatment @ 5 kg ha-1). The maximum value of reducing sugar 0.565 and 0.552% during Ist ratoon (2012-13) and IInd ratoon (2013-14), respectively was observed under treatment T2 (100 % NPK through inorganic).
Effect of Different Arsenic and Biochar Levels on Soil Microbial Population and Enzymatic Activity
Authors: Pandey Astha , Singh Satish Kumar , Sharma Sheetal , Mishra Ajay Kumar , Jatav Surendra Singh , Patra Abhik , Bahuguna Ayush , Mukharjee Sayon , Yadav Bharti , Pankaj Bhanupriya
Published: July 2023

Arsenic (As) poses a pervasive environmental contamination problem on a global scale. Human activities have significantly contributed to the extensive presence of arsenic (As) in soils. Recently, there has been growing interest in exploring the potential of biochar in addressing the issue of As-contaminated soils. This study focused on evaluating the effects of two types of biochar, namely straw biochar and iron-modified biochar, on the composition of soil microbial communities and enzymatic activity in soil contaminated with arsenic. After conducting a pot experiment for a duration of 9 months, the microbial communities and enzymatic activity were analyzed. Biochar refers to carbon-rich porous solids that are produced by heating biomasses under low oxygen conditions. These biochars are regarded as environmentally friendly sorbents that can be employed for the treatment of different types of arsenic contamination. The increased abundance of soil microbial populations and the enhanced enzymatic properties suggest that biochar fosters the richness and diversity of bacterial communities. Consequently, these improvements in the soil environment and biological quality highlight the potential of iron-modified biochar as an alternative agent for remediating arsenic-contaminated soils.
Encapsulation of Native Strains of Bioagents Trichoderma asperellum and Pseudomonas putida Using Different Biopolymers
Authors: Sowmya V. , Maruthi P. , Devi G. Uma , Rajanikant P. , Kannan C.
Published: July 2023

Microencapsulation of biological control agents in biopolymer matrices is a valuable alternative to produce formulations with extended shelf-life. In this work, Trichoderma asperellum TAIK 1 conidia and Pseudomonas putida PIK1 bacterial cells were microencapsulated using different wall materials viz., maltodextrin, sodium alginate, carboxy methyl cellulose (CMC), gum arabic, and a cross linking agent gelatin with a hardening material calcium chloride. The encapsulation methods extrusion, emulsification and spray drying was performed using these wall materials. Spray drying process resulted in compact and smooth surface capsule with each individual cell in comparison to the other two methods, confirmed using scanning electron microscope (SEM). Further the viablility of organisms were checked, among these the combination maltoderxtrin (2%) + gelatin (1.5%) + CaCl2 (2%) resulted in 70% viability. And also effect of spray-drying inlet and outlet air temperatures were standardized for TAIK 1 and PIK1 spores. Highest conidial survival was shown in inlet and outlet temperature, feed rate/h (1300C, 600C, feed rate 60ml/h for TAIK1) and (1200C, 500C, feed rate 60ml/h for PIK1). Therefore, our study obtained the optimal process for encapsulation of bioagents TAIK1 and PIK1. Thus it can be used as sustainable tool for eco-friendly bio-control agents release.
Changes in Nursing Home Use Following Medicaid-Supported Expanded Access to Home- and Community-Based Services for Older Adults With Dementia
Authors: Harrison Jordan M. , Sheng Flora , Josberger Raina E. , Liu Harry H. , Stone Patricia W. , Luchsinger José A. , Dick Andrew W.
Published: July 2023

Importance

New York State’s Medicaid managed long-term care (MLTC) program expanded access to home- and community-based services, providing an alternative to nursing home care for people with dementia. Between 2012 and 2015, the state implemented mandatory MLTC for dual Medicare and Medicaid enrollees requiring more than 120 days of community-based long-term care.

Objective

To evaluate changes in nursing home use among older adults with dementia following MLTC implementation.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This cohort study used longitudinal data from January 1, 2011, to December 31, 2019, from the Minimum Data Set and Medicare administrative data. The study sample included New York State Medicare beneficiaries 65 years and older with dementia. New York City residents were excluded due to insufficient pre–study period data. Data were analyzed from January 1, 2011, to December 31, 2019.

Exposure

Mandatory MLTC enrollment.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Longitudinal models were used to evaluate changes in annual days of nursing home use following the staggered implementation of MLTC across 13 regions of the state. Two models were estimated: (1) a logistic regression model for any nursing home use in a given year and (2) a linear regression model of total nursing home days, conditional on any nursing home use. Models included annual event-time indicators specified as years until or since MLTC implementation. To capture MLTC effects for dual enrollees relative to non–dual Medicare enrollees, models included interaction terms for dual enrollment and event-time indicators.

Results

This sample included 463 947 Medicare beneficiaries with dementia who lived in New York State between 2011 and 2019 (50.2% younger than 85 years; 64.4% women). Implementation of MLTC was associated with lower odds of nursing home use among dual enrollees, ranging from 8% lower odds 2 years post implementation (adjusted odds ratio, 0.92 [95% CI, 0.86-0.98]) to 24% lower odds 6 years post implementation (adjusted odds ratio, 0.76 [95% CI, 0.69-0.84]). Compared with a scenario of no MLTC, MLTC implementation was associated with an 8% reduction in annual days of nursing home use between 2013 and 2019 (mean, −5.6 [95% CI, −6.1 to −5.1] days per year).

Conclusions and Relevance

The findings of this cohort study suggest that implementation of mandatory MLTC in New York State was associated with less nursing home use among dual enrollees with dementia and that MLTC may help prevent or delay nursing home placement among older adults with dementia.
Probiotics in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit—A Framework for Optimizing Product Standards
Authors: Shane Andi L. , Preidis Geoffrey A.
Published: July 2023

This Viewpoint outlines a framework for optimizing probiotic product stringency and use in the neonatal intensive care unit.
Undifferentially Expressed CXXC5 as a Transcriptionally Regulatory Biomarker of Breast Cancer
Authors: Li Xue , Lv Xiaoying , Li Haijun , Zhang Gongyou , Long Yaohang , Li Kewei , Fan Yusi , Jin Dawei , Zhou Fengfeng , Liu Hongmei
Published: July 2023

This work hypothesizes that some genes undergo radically changed transcription regulations (TRs) in breast cancer (BC), but don't show differential expressions for unknown reasons. The TR of a gene is quantitatively formulated by a regression model between the expression of this gene and multiple transcription factors (TFs). The difference between the predicted and real expression levels of a gene in a query sample is defined as the mqTrans value of this gene, which quantitatively reflects its regulatory changes. This work systematically screens the undifferentially expressed genes with differentially expressed mqTrans values in 1036 samples across five datasets and three ethnic groups. This study calls the 25 genes satisfying the above hypothesis in at least four datasets as dark biomarkers, and the strong dark biomarker gene CXXC5 (CXXC Finger Protein 5) is even supported by all the five independent BC datasets. Although CXXC5 does not show differential expressions in BC, its transcription regulations show quantitative associations with BCs in diversified cohorts. The overlapping long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) may have contributed their transcripts to the expression miscalculations of dark biomarkers. The mqTrans analysis serves as a complementary view of the transcriptome‐based detections of biomarkers that are ignored by many existing studies.
Elimination of Drying‐Dependent Component Deviation Using a Composite Solvent Strategy Enables High‐Performance Inkjet‐Printed Organic Solar Cells with Efficiency Approaching 16%
Authors: Sang Lifeng , Chen Xingze , Fang Jin , Xu Peng , Tian Wenming , Shui Ke , Han Yunfei , Wang Hao , Huang Rong , Zhang Qing , Luo Qun , Ma Chang‐Qi
Published: July 2023

Inkjet printing (IJP) is a roll‐to‐roll (R2R) compatible fabrication method for large‐area organic solar cells (OSCs). Unlike the coating process, the films are formed through droplet leveling and merging during IJP, and the pre‐deposited droplets are partly dissolved by the subsequent droplets. Such a process yields undesired printing pattern lines, especially in large‐area printed films. This study reveals that such a temperature‐dependent “drying lines‐related” phase separation morphology has caused component variation in the organic blend films, which leads to an obvious inhomogeneity of photocurrent in the printed OSCs. Such a phenomenon is attributed to the solubility difference between organic donor and acceptor molecules in the main printing solvent. A composite solvent strategy of ortho‐dichlorobenzene (oDCB)/trimethylbenzene (TMB) and tetralin (THN) is developed to solve this problem. The introduction of THN suppresses the formation of printing drying lines during high‐temperature printing due to the preferential miscibility of acceptor in THN, leading to the efficiency improvement to 13.96% and 15.78% for the binary and ternary devices. In addition, the 1 cm2 device with a disruptive pattern gives an efficiency of 12.80% and a certificated efficiency of 12.18%.
Synthesis of epoxy and phenyl groups‐containing polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane of large Si16O24 cage and its flame retardant and mechanical performances on epoxy resins
Authors: Zhou Hailian , Liu Leichun , Zhang Wenchao , Yang Rongjie
Published: July 2023

A kind of the epoxy and phenyl groups‐containing POSS of the regular cage of 16 silicon atoms (EPHPOSS) was synthesized successfully via the hydrolysis‐condensation reaction of phenyltrimethoxysilane and 2‐(3,4‐glycidoxypropyl) propyltrimethoxysilane, and its chemical structure was characterized. To improve the comprehensive performances of the epoxy resin (EP), EPHPOSS in different ratios was incorporated into the EP by thermal curing technology. It is obtained that the EPHPOSS has a homogeneous dispersion in the EP composites and plays an important role in enhancing the bending strength and thermal properties of the EP composites. The EP composite with 10 wt% EPHPOSS has a limiting oxygen index (LOI) value of 27.8%, higher than the LOI of 23.2% of the pure EP. The peak of heat release rate, total heat release, and total smoke release of the EP composites with the EPHPOSS are reduced obviously. In flame retardant mechanism of the EPHPOSS on the EP, the microstructures of the burning char and TG‐FTIR of the EP composites were achieved, it is suggested that the EPHPOSS promotes the formation of compact and continuous char layers and reduces the production of the organic combustible gases.
Effects of exogenous indole‐3‐acetic acid on the density of trichomes, expression of artemisinin biosynthetic genes, and artemisinin biosynthesis in Artemisia annua
Authors: Guo Zhiying , Zhang Qin , Zhang Yitong , Wu Changlin , Zheng Yijuan , Tong Fupeng , Zhang Linhui , Lu Ruyu , Pan Xiusong , Tan Hexin , Lv Zongyou
Published: July 2023

Artemisinin is the most practical medication for the treatment of malaria, but is only very minimally synthesized in Artemisia annua, significantly less than the market needs. In this study, indole‐3‐acetic acid (IAA) was used to investigate its effects on trichomes, artemisinin accumulation, and biosynthetic gene expression in A. anuua. The results showed that exogenous IAA could contribute to the growth and development of A. annua and increase the density of trichomes. Analysis using liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry (LC‒MS/MS) indicated that artemisinin and dihydroartemisinic acid (DHAA) contents were increased by 1.9‐fold (1.1 mg/g) and 2.1‐fold (0.51 mg/g) after IAA treatment in comparison with control lines (CK), respectively. Furthermore, quantitative real‐time PCR results showed that AaADS, AaCYP71AV1, AaALDH1, and AaDBR2, four critical enzyme genes for the biosynthesis of artemisinin, had relatively high transcription levels in leaves of A. annua treated with IAA. In summary, this study indicated that exogenous IAA treatment was a feasible strategy to enhance artemisinin production, which paves the way for further metabolic engineering of artemisinin biosynthesis.
Activated omega loops for anterior crossbite correction in transitional dentition
Authors: Venugopal Adith , Ahmed Farooq , Yadav Rajiv , Bunthouen Noem
Published: July 2023

Key Clinical Message

Several approaches can correct pseudo‐Class III anterior crossbite. 2 × 4 appliance, compressed open‐coil springs, Class III elastics, etc. All cause either soft tissue lacerations, smile line flattening, or upper incisor overproclination. This paper describes a novel method to tip lower incisors into a normal overjet without compromising the upper dentition.

In pseudo‐class III cases, a “two by four” multibracketed appliance has been utilized to put the incisors into a typical overjet during transitional dentition. Compressing a rectangular super elastic archwire creates continuous force, but its length restricts activation and risks cheek impingement. Open‐coil springs on rigid archwires advance incisors labially, although a 4‐5 mm of wire distal to the molar tube may injure soft tissue. Reciprocally anchored Class III intermaxillary elastics restore anterior overjet through lower incisor lingual tipping and upper incisor proclination. Class III elastics extrude maxillary molars and mandibular incisors, rotating the dental occlusal plane counterclockwise and reducing maxillary incisor exposure and aesthetics. A unique method is reported in this report to tip the lower incisors back into normal overjet without affecting the upper dentition.
Vaccine envy during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Erz Elina , Rentzsch Katrin
Published: July 2023

The term vaccine envy (i.e., envy experienced when others are given the opportunity to receive a COVID‐19 vaccine) was coined during the COVID‐19 pandemic and has received media attention. This study is the first to systematically investigate vaccine envy. In two pre‐registered online surveys conducted in May 2021 (N = 1,174) and October/November 2021 (N = 535), we collected data from vaccinated and unvaccinated German participants, including measures of vaccine envy, well‐being, personal experiences during the pandemic, and various trait constructs (e.g., justice sensitivity and self‐esteem). We found that in May 2021, 47% of participants experienced vaccine envy at least sometimes and that vaccine envy was connected to victim sensitivity, subjective perceptions of being threatened by the pandemic, and an increased willingness to be vaccinated. By November 2021, however, vaccine envy among unvaccinated participants had almost disappeared. Our findings advance the understanding of the psychological impact of the COVID‐19 pandemic.
Identification and taxonomic position of a new Pseudoomphalina species from Pakistan based on light, scanning electron microscopy, and molecular analysis
Authors: Rani Afifa Kainat , Hina Shozab , Iqbal Hira , Shabbir Zahra , Izhar Aiman , Usman Muhammad , Khalid Abdul Nasir
Published: July 2023

Khanspur, a small town located near Ayubia National Park, is a famous mountainous resort lying in Galyat area of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. It is included in one of the richest biodiversity hotspots in the country. Despite of extensive previous studies, many new species are awaiting to be documented, including macrofungi. In this study, a new macrofungus Pseudoomphalina khanspurensis is analyzed by both light and scanning electron microscopy as well as DNA sequences based on nrITS and nrLSU regions. The sister species P. cokeri differs by its red to purple, dark to reddish brown, broadly convex to applanate pileus, purple blue to brownish stipe, and numerous cylindrical to lageniform cheilocystidia.

Highlights

This is the first report of genus Pseudoomphalina from Pakistan and first study based on Scanning electron microscopy.

These species have been described with detailed micro‐morphological and molecular makers (nrITS and nrLSU).

General distribution, ecology, diagnostic features and comparisons with alies have been provided.

Graphical representation of DNA extraction and geographical locations of sampling sites are also illustrated.

Softwares such as CIPRES Science Gateway Portal, MUSCLE, BioEdit, FigTree, Adobe illustrator and Adobe Photoshop are used in the current study.

No member of this genus is already described from Pakistan.
Characterization of graphs of diameter 2 containing a homeomorphically irreducible spanning tree
Authors: Shan Songling , Tsuchiya Shoichi
Published: July 2023

A spanning tree of a graph with no vertex of degree 2 is called a homeomorphically irreducible spanning tree (HIST) of the graph. In 1990, Albertson, Berman, Hutchinson, and Thomassen conjectured that every twin‐free graph with diameter 2 contains a HIST. Recently, Ando disproved this conjecture and characterized twin‐free graphs with diameter 2 that do contain a HIST. In this paper, we give a complete characterization of all graphs of diameter 2 that contain a HIST. This characterization gives alternative proofs for several known results.
A Biomimetic Peptide Functions as Specific Extracellular Matrix for Quiescence of Stem Cells against Intervertebral Disc Degeneration
Authors: Li Yuan , Zhang Kuo , Ai Xuezheng , Zhang Qingshi , Jiang Lu , Long Jiang , Xu Huange , Feng Chencheng , Zhang Yaqing , Tang Guoke , Chong Fanli , Wang Lei , Huang Bo
Published: July 2023

Maintaining quiescence of stem cells is a potential way to decrease cell nutrition demand for restoring the organization. Herein, a biomimetic peptide to maintain quiescence of stem cells through C‐X‐C motif chemokine ligand 8 (CXCL8)‐C‐X‐C motif chemokine receptor 1 (CXCR1) pathway against intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD) is developed. First, it is confirmed that quiescence can be induced via inhibiting phosphatidylinositol 3‐kinase (PI3K)/Akt/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway in nucleus pulposus stem cells (NPSCs). Meanwhile, it is well known that CXCR1, a chemokine receptor, can be targeted by CXCL8, resulting in cell proliferation via activating PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway. Second, a biomimetic peptide (OAFF) that can bind to CXCR1 and form fibrous networks on NPSCs, mimicking extracellular matrix formation is developed. The multivalent effect and long‐term binding to CXCR1 on NPSCs of OAFF fibers offer forcefully competitive inhibition with natural CXCL8, which induces NPSCs quiescence and ultimately overcomes obstacle in intradiscal injection therapy. In rat caudal disc puncture model, OAFF nanofibers still maintain at 5 weeks after operation and inhibit degeneration process of intervertebral disc in terms of histopathology and imageology. In situ fibrillogenesis of biomimetic peptide on NPSCs provides promising stem cells for intradiscal injection therapy against IVDD.
Optimierte Fachbodenregale durch den Einsatz von höchstfestem Stahl
Authors: Ungermann Dieter , Lemański Tim , Brune Bettina , Weiß‐Borkowski Nathalie , Schulz‐Beenken Anne , Gösling Peter , Ebers Markus
Published: July 2023

Weltweit wird die Lagertechnik durch den boomenden Onlinehandel, begrenzte Flächenkapazitäten und immer größere Bauhöhen von Regallagern geprägt. Die technische Ausführung von Regalanlagen folgt der rasanten Entwicklung in der Logistik jedoch nur schleppend. Auch das Potenzial von modernen höchstfesten Stählen, die sich im Automobil‐ und Maschinenbau längst durchgesetzt haben, wird in der modernen Lagertechnik nicht ausgeschöpft, obwohl Fachbodenregale für den Einsatz von höchstfesten Stählen prädestiniert sind. Das Ziel des FOSTA‐Forschungsvorhabens P1512 (IGF Nr.21465/N) war daher die Erarbeitung der werkstoffspezifischen, fertigungs‐ und bemessungstechnischen Grundlagen zum Einsatz von höchstfesten Stahlblechen in Fachbodenregalen. Hierzu wurde einerseits die Eignung verschiedener hochfester Stähle für ihren Einsatz bei Fachböden und Stützen geprüft. Andererseits wurde durch experimentelle Untersuchungen das Trag‐ und Stabilitätsverhalten von Fachbodenregalstützen aus hochfesten Stählen analysiert; numerische Simulationen dienten der Optimierung von Stützengeometrien, sodass deren Querschnitte bei geringstmöglichem Materialeinsatz bestmöglich ausgenutzt werden können.
Corporate entrepreneurship and firm performance relationship under the moderating effect of environmental dynamism: Replication and extension analysis
Authors: Rodríguez-Peña Antonio
Published: July 2023

The purpose of this research is to understand the relationship between corporate entrepreneurship and firm performance of large firms in emerging economies, with consideration of the moderating effect of environmental dynamism. This is a quantitative and cross-sectional study, utilizing a multivariate second-order hierarchical component model. The partial least squares structural equation modeling method was employed for analysis. The findings indicate a highly positive impact of entrepreneurial orientation on profitability, while corporate venturing had a high but negative impact on profitability. Regarding the growth model, it was shown that entrepreneurial orientation had a positive but statistically insignificant impact on firm growth, while corporate venturing had a highly negative but statistically insignificant impact on firm growth. Interestingly, the results indicate that environmental dynamism did not have a moderating effect in this context. This paper has significant implications for senior management decision-making regarding the importance of corporate entrepreneurship in the growth and profitability of companies. It is recommended that large companies invest in entrepreneurial orientation because of its positive influence on profitability. This research fills a gap in the literature on the relationship between corporate entrepreneurship and firm performance in large companies in emerging economies. It highlights the importance of context-specific contingencies to the impact of corporate entrepreneurship on the performance of large companies and cautions against generalizing results across different countries, even those with seemingly similar contexts. The study confirms the positive relationship between entrepreneurial orientation and corporate profitability, particularly for large companies.
$$\mathrm T^2$$Net: an improved image-based text transfer framework using background inpainting and text conversion
Authors: Zhou Haibin , Shao Lujiao , Jia Boxiang , Zhang Haijun
Published: July 2023

Text, which is regarded as one of the important clues for visual recognition, can provide rich and accurate high-level semantic information. Therefore, the detection and recognition of textual data have become a research hotspot in computer vision and artificial intelligence. However, the difficulty of data collection and the non-uniform distribution of characters still poses challenges for accurate text recognition, especially for recognizing complicated character sets, such as Chinese. To address small-sample text recognition, we propose an improved image-based text transfer framework, named $$\mathrm T^2$$

T
2

Net. This work can replace or modify the text content in an image so as to arbitrarily expand a recognition data set. Considering that the main challenge of text transfer lies in decoupling the complex interrelationship between text and background, a text content mask branch is first added into a background inpainting module so as to more realistically restore background textures. Second, a text recognition model is developed to guide the readability of the text transfer results in the text conversion module. Finally, a text fusion module is used to fuse the independent migrations of background and text. We examined the performance of our proposed framework in a real-word scene text recognition data set. Qualitative and quantitative results have proved the efficiency of our method in comparison with previous works.
Making Love Legible: Queering Indian Legal Conceptions of “Family”
Authors: Jain Hrishika
Published: July 2023

The state has historically played favourites—by incentivizing conventional families and clamping down on alternative families like ascetic maths, it ensured that the heteronormative family flourished. I trace the socio-legal histories of families and establish a constitutional imperative for “family equality” located in the rights to religious freedom, privacy, and equal treatment, and propose that it (not marriage equality) drives the queer movement. “Family” must be reimagined beyond marriage in light of the public ethic of care to encompass a vast range of non-normative families like hijra communes. I consider the Canadian Law Commission’s proposals for recognizing “families” and argue that a similar framework is an unrecognized constitutional mandate in India that, once recognized, would render a wealth of laws interacting with family life unconstitutional. The shared socioconstitutional contexts across jurisdictions and the growing convergence of human rights standards could well mean that this will impact legal systems around the world.
Thermal equilibrium of collisional non-neutral plasma in a magnetic dipole trap
Authors: Steinbrunner P. , O'Neil T.M. , Stoneking M.R. , Dubin D.H.E.
Published: July 2023

This paper discusses thermal equilibrium states of single-species plasmas, such as pure electron plasmas and pure positron plasmas, that are confined in a dipole trap. Thermal equilibrium states for such plasmas are routinely realized in the homogeneous magnetic field of Penning–Malmberg traps. We generalize the theory of these states to include inhomogeneous magnetic dipole fields. The approach to thermal equilibrium takes place in two stages with well separated time scales. On the collision time scale, thermal equilibrium is established along each magnetic field line. On the much longer transport time scale, heat conduction and viscosity bring the plasmas on different flux contours into thermal equilibrium, we call this a state of global thermal equilibrium. We present numerical results for local and global thermal equilibria. These results agree with the analytic predictions for charge collections that are large compared with the Debye length. There is, in principle, no limit to the confinement time of a single-species plasma in a global thermal equilibrium state. Experiments with hot electron–ion plasmas performed in the LDX and RT1 devices give us confidence that, in contrast to a Penning–Malmberg trap, a magnetic dipole field can also confine cold quasi-neutral electron–positron pair plasmas on the time scale of the phenomena of interest. Such pair plasmas are assumed to form in the magnetosphere of neutron stars but have so far not been realized in a laboratory. The creation of an electron–positron pair plasma is the main goal of the APEX collaboration.
A new species of Ophiocoma (Echinodermata: Ophiuroidea) from Archipelago Trindade and Martin Vaz, Southeastern Atlantic, and redescription of Ophiocoma echinata
Authors: Serrano Helena , Damiano Cecília J. S. , Alitto Renata A. S. , Guilherme Pablo D. B. , Cerqueira Walter R. P. , Mendonça Joel B. , Tavares Marcos , Borges Michela
Published: July 2023

The brittle stars of the family Ophiocomidae inhabit shallow waters and coral reefs of tropical regions. The species of Ophiocoma are difficult to identify due to high morphological variation, especially when different stages of development are observed. Here, based on morphological analyses, two Brazilian morphotypes of Ophiocoma were studied and characterized, Ophiocoma sp. NB (Northeastern Brazil) and Ophiocoma sp. TMV (Trindade and Martin Vaz Archipelago), and subsequently thoroughly analysed to confirm whether they were the same species or not. After the morphological studies, including external morphology, morphometry and microstructural characters, and analysis of molecular data, involving the 16S gene, it was concluded that Ophiocoma sp. NB and Ophiocoma sp. TMV do not correspond to the same species, the first being identified as Ophiocoma echinata (Lamarck, 1816) and the latter being a new species. This new species is characterized by two tentacle scales on the first arm segment and then one on all following segments, and the dorsalmost arm spines are robust and rounded, as wide as long or almost as wide as long.
Invasive listeriosis in Finland: surveillance and cluster investigations, 2011–2021
Authors: Suominen Kristiina , Jaakola Sari , Salmenlinna Saara , Simola Maria , Wallgren Suvi , Hakkinen Marjaana , Suokorpi Annika , Rimhanen-Finne Ruska
Published: July 2023

Foodborne pathogen Listeria monocytogenes may cause serious, life-threatening disease in susceptible persons. We combined data from Finnish national listeriosis surveillance, patient interview responses, and laboratory data of patient samples and compared them to listeria findings from food and food production plants collected as part of outbreak investigations during 2011–2021. The incidence of invasive listeriosis in Finland (1.3/100000 in 2021) is higher than the EU average (0.5/100000 in 2021), and most cases are observed in the elderly with a predisposing condition. Many cases reported consuming high-risk foods as well as improper food storage. Since ongoing patient interviews and whole genome sequencing were introduced, several listeriosis outbreaks were detected and food sources identified. Recommendations about high-risk foods for listeriosis and proper food storage should be better communicated to susceptible people. In Finland, patient interviews and typing and comparing listeria isolates in foods and patient samples are crucial in solving outbreaks and determining measures to control invasive listeriosis.
Exploring the occurrence and the risk factors of the desire for hastened death and depression in people with early-stage dementia in Greece
Authors: Kostopoulou Sotiria , Varveri Athina Pinelopi , Nikoloudi Maria , Tsilika Eleni , Parpa Efi , Zygogianni Anna , Mystakidou Kyriaki
Published: July 2023

Objectives

To assess the factors associated with desire for hastened death and depression in early-stage dementia as well as the association between them. Also, to explore the mediator and moderator role of age in the relationship between depression and desire for hasten death.

Methods

A prospective cross-sectional study including 100 patients diagnosed with early-stage dementia from a rehabilitation center between December 2018 and July 2019. Measurement tools used were the Mini-Mental State Examination, the Greek Montreal Cognitive Assessment, the Greek Schedule of Attitudes toward Hastened Death, and the Geriatric Depression Scale-15 item. Patients diagnosed with dementia as a result of Stroke history were excluded.

Results

Factors of multifactorial analysis significantly associated with desire for hastened death were as follows: age (p = 0.009), marital status (p = 0.001), and depression (p < 0.001). The factor significantly associated with depression was age (p = 0.001). Also, a mediation/moderation analysis has shown that depression and age are significant predictors of desire for hasten death.

Significance of results

The desire for hastened death and depression in people diagnosed with early-stage dementia includes many components. Younger patients, men, higher educated patients, single, childless, and those with higher depression scores had higher desire for hastened death, while men and older patients had higher scores of desire for depression. Our study provides important information about the desire for hastened death and depression in early-stage dementia, their risk factors, and their association.
How coupled slow oscillations, spindles and ripples coordinate neuronal processing and communication during human sleep
Authors: Staresina Bernhard P. , Niediek Johannes , Borger Valeri , Surges Rainer , Mormann Florian
Published: July 2023

Learning and plasticity rely on fine-tuned regulation of neuronal circuits during offline periods. An unresolved puzzle is how the sleeping brain, in the absence of external stimulation or conscious effort, coordinates neuronal firing rates (FRs) and communication within and across circuits to support synaptic and systems consolidation. Using intracranial electroencephalography combined with multiunit activity recordings from the human hippocampus and surrounding medial temporal lobe (MTL) areas, we show that, governed by slow oscillation (SO) up-states, sleep spindles set a timeframe for ripples to occur. This sequential coupling leads to a stepwise increase in (1) neuronal FRs, (2) short-latency cross-correlations among local neuronal assemblies and (3) cross-regional MTL interactions. Triggered by SOs and spindles, ripples thus establish optimal conditions for spike-timing-dependent plasticity and systems consolidation. These results unveil how the sequential coupling of specific sleep rhythms orchestrates neuronal processing and communication during human sleep.
Deep-red-emitting phosphors of Mn4+-activated tantalite for high-sensitivity lifetime thermometry and security films
Authors: Hua Yongbin , Yu Jae Su
Published: July 2023

Deep-red-emitting Mn4+-doped Sr2InTaO6 phosphors with single monoclinic phase were synthesized for luminescence lifetime thermometry and security films.