bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Blood pressure reduction after renal denervation in patients with or without chronic kidney disease
Authors: Günes-Altan Merve , Schmid Axel , Ott Christian , Bosch Agnes , Pietschner Robert , Schiffer Mario , Uder Michael , Schmieder Roland E , Kannenkeril Dennis
Published: November 2023

Background

Renal denervation (RDN) has emerged as an adjacent option for the treatment of hypertension. This analysis of the Erlanger registry aimed to compare the blood pressure (BP)-lowering effects and safety of RDN in patients with and without chronic kidney disease (CKD).

Methods

In this single-center retrospective analysis, 47 patients with and 127 without CKD underwent radiofrequency-, ultrasound- or alcohol-infusion-based RDN. Office and 24-h ambulatory BP and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) were measured at baseline, and after 6 and 12 months.

Results

A total of 174 patients with a mean age of 59.0 ± 10 years were followed up for 12 months. At baseline, mean eGFR was 55.8 ± 21 mL/min/1.73 m2 in patients with CKD and 87.3 ± 13 mL/min/1.73 m2 in patients without CKD. There was no significant eGFR decline in either of the groups during 12 months of follow-up. In patients without CKD, office systolic and diastolic BP were reduced by –15.3 ± 17.5/–7.9 ± 10.8 mmHg 6 months after RDN and by –16.1 ± 18.2/–7.7 ± 9.6 mmHg 12 months after RDN. In patients with CKD, office systolic and diastolic BP were reduced by –10.7 ± 24.0/–5.8 ± 13.2 mmHg 6 months after RDN and by –15.1 ± 24.9/–5.9 ± 12.9 mmHg 12 months after RDN. Accordingly, in patients without CKD, 24-h ambulatory systolic and diastolic BP were reduced by –7.2 ± 15.8/–4.9 ± 8.8 mmHg 6 months after RDN and by –9.0 ± 17.0/–6.2 ± 9.8 mmHg 12 months after RDN. In patients with CKD, 24-h systolic and diastolic BP were reduced by –7.4 ± 12.9/–4.2 ± 9.9 mmHg 6 months after RDN and by –8.0 ± 14.0/–3.6 ± 9.6 mmHg 12 months after RDN. There was no difference in the reduction of office and 24-h ambulatory BP between the two groups at any time point (all P > .2). Similar results have been found for the 6 months data. With exception of rare local adverse events, we did not observe any safety signals.

Conclusion

According to our single-center experience, we observed a similar reduction in 24-h, day and night-time ambulatory BP as well as in-office BP in patients with and without CKD at any time point up to 12 months. We conclude that RDN is an effective and safe treatment option for patients with hypertension and CKD.
Mammography-based deep learning model for coronary artery calcification
Authors: Ahn Sangil , Chang Yoosoo , Kwon Ria , Kang Jeonggyu , Choi JunHyeok , Lim Ga-Young , Kwon Mi-ri , Ryu Seungho , Shin Jitae
Published: November 2023

Aims

Mammography, commonly used for breast cancer screening in women, can also predict cardiovascular disease. We developed mammography-based deep learning models for predicting coronary artery calcium (CAC) scores, an established predictor of coronary events.

Methods and results

We evaluated a subset of Korean adults who underwent image mammography and CAC computed tomography and randomly selected approximately 80% of the participants as the training dataset, used to develop a convolutional neural network (CNN) to predict detectable CAC. The sensitivity, specificity, area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC), and overall accuracy of the model’s performance were evaluated. The training and validation datasets included 5235 and 1208 women, respectively [mean age, 52.6 (±10.2) years], including non-zero cases (46.8%). The CNN-based deep learning prediction model based on the Resnet18 model showed the best performance. The model was further improved using contrastive learning strategies based on positive and negative samples: sensitivity, 0.764 (95% CI, 0.667–0.830); specificity, 0.652 (95% CI, 0.614–0.710); AUROC, 0.761 (95% CI, 0.742–0.780); and accuracy, 70.8% (95% CI, 68.8–72.4). Moreover, including age and menopausal status in the model further improved its performance (AUROC, 0.776; 95% CI, 0.762–0.790). The Framingham risk score yielded an AUROC of 0.736 (95% CI, 0.712–0.761).

Conclusion

Mammography-based deep learning models showed promising results for predicting CAC, performing comparably to conventional risk models. This indicates mammography’s potential for dual-risk assessment in breast cancer and cardiovascular disease. Further research is necessary to validate these findings in diverse populations, with a particular focus on representation from national breast screening programmes.
Germline proliferation trades off with lipid metabolism in Drosophila
Authors: Rodrigues Marisa A , Dauphin-Villemant Chantal , Paris Margot , Kapun Martin , Mitchell Esra Durmaz , Kerdaffrec Envel , Flatt Thomas
Published: November 2023

Little is known about the metabolic basis of life-history trade-offs but lipid stores seem to play a pivotal role. During reproduction, an energetically highly costly process, animals mobilize fat reserves. Conversely, reduced or curtailed reproduction promotes lipid storage in many animals. Systemic signals from the gonad seem to be involved: Caenorhabditis elegans lacking germline stem cells display endocrine changes, have increased fat stores and are long-lived. Similarly, germline-ablated Drosophila melanogaster exhibit major somatic physiological changes, but whether and how germline loss affects lipid metabolism remains largely unclear. Here we show that germline-ablated flies have profoundly altered energy metabolism at the transcriptional level and store excess fat as compared to fertile flies. Germline activity thus constrains or represses fat accumulation, and this effect is conserved between flies and worms. More broadly, our findings confirm that lipids represent a major energetic currency in which costs of reproduction are paid.
Height growth patterns of genetically improved Scots pine and silver birch
Authors: Zeltiņš Pauls , Jansons Āris , Baliuckas Virgilijus , Kangur Ahto
Published: November 2023

The breeding of forest tree species in the Baltic region has notably contributed to wood production for the bioeconomy. Growth modelling is used for long-term estimates of forest development. However, usually based on data from unimproved stands, they may underestimate the growth of improved trees. Accordingly, it is important to identify and integrate the altered stand dynamics associated with improved planting stock into existing growth models to accurately capture the resulting gains or, alternatively, develop new functions specifically designed for improved trees. We used the generalized algebraic difference approach to model and analyze height growth patterns of Scots pine and silver birch with different genetic improvement levels (improved forest reproductive material categories ‘qualified’ and ‘tested’). Modelling was based on 14 260 and 55 926 height–age series from open-pollinated progeny trials in Latvia and Lithuania with an age range of 3–46 and 5–22 years for pine and birch, respectively. Dynamic generalized algebraic difference approach forms of commonly applied height growth functions with forest reproductive material-category-specific sets of coefficients were tested. The dynamic form of the Chapman–Richards and King–Prodan equations had the best fit for Scots pine and silver birch, respectively. The expected height growth of the category ‘tested’ was slightly better than the one for ‘qualified’, with more distinct differences in silver birch. The model with forest reproductive material-category-specific coefficients reflected the actual growth of improved trees; however, such application is limited to sites with medium and high site indices, where improved planting stock is typically used. We recommend the model for young stands up to the age of 20 and 40 years for pine and birch, respectively, considering the empirical data cover on which the functions are based. A unified dynamic height model with the same functional form but category-specific parameterization for different improvement levels allows a practical applicability and effective communication amongst diverse users, thereby promoting the utilization of the model amongst forest owners and managers who possess information regarding the origin of planting stock.
A dialogical model of human rights adjudication
Authors: Etxabe Julen
Published: November 2023

This article presents the contours of a “dialogical model” of adjudication arising from the practice of the European Court of Human Rights that is profoundly transforming inherited notions of rights, legal reasoning, legal authority, and the rule of law more generally. The dialogical model is characterized by a form of reasoning that is not self-reliant or autonomous, but internally constituted by the interaction of multiple voices, normative perspectives, and institutional standpoints. What is defined as dialogical, however, is not the inclusion of this or that discrete voice, but the entire process of adjudication, including: how issues are framed; the need to consider cases as a whole; their embeddedness in large swathes of normative magma; the self-reflexive assessment of the Court’s position and trajectory; the relational understanding of the Court’s authority; and the fact that each and every decision constitutes a notion of democracy that is plural, many-voiced, and inherently in tension. Beyond a mere polyphony of voices, therefore, this is an entirely new paradigm to conceive the Court’s task, which differs markedly from the two main paradigms of understanding human rights adjudication, namely the rights-based model and proportionality analysis. After describing the shortcomings of the latter two paradigms fully to account for the Court’s practice, the article presents the features of the dialogical model. Ultimately, this is a judgment about the collective self-definition of democratic societies, which necessitates a reassessment of the countermajoritarian difficulty to account for the democracy-constituting role of the Court.
Pharmacy users’ perceptions, awareness and future expectations of community pharmacy in England: a focus group study
Authors: Paloumpi Evgenia , Ozieranski Piotr , Watson Margaret C , Jones Matthew D
Published: November 2023

Objective

To explore pharmacy users’ perceptions of current and future provision of community pharmacy services in England.

Methods

Qualitative, reconvened focus groups were conducted with community pharmacy users. An initial focus group explored preliminary views. Participants were then given an evidence brief describing community pharmacy before a reconvened focus group two weeks later. Transcripts were analysed using inductive thematic analysis.

Key findings

Eleven individuals participated across two reconvened focus groups. Participants valued community pharmacies and staff, but lacked awareness of their services and roles: ‘… I don’t think the general public is aware of all of this … it gives you a very different perspective’. Urgent care and long-term conditions management were identified as suitable for future development, facilitated by training, closer collaboration with general practices, shared access to health records, and premises with more space and confidentiality: ‘I still think of it as a retail space more than as a health service’. Concerns were expressed about working conditions in community pharmacy and unplanned closures: ‘doesn’t sound like a great place to work’. Participants anticipated greater use of technology but did not want this to replace face-to-face contact with pharmacy staff: ‘I am not saying it’s inaccurate, it is so remote and impersonal’.

Conclusions

Pharmacy users would value a greater role for community pharmacy in addressing the challenges currently faced by the health service in England, provided that their concerns on a range of issues are addressed.
ROIPCA: an online memory-restricted PCA algorithm based on rank-one updates
Authors: Mitz Roy , Shkolnisky Yoel
Published: November 2023

Principal components analysis (PCA) is a fundamental algorithm in data analysis. Its memory-restricted online versions are useful in many modern applications, where the data are too large to fit in memory, or when data arrive as a stream of items. In this paper, we propose ROIPCA and fROIPCA, two online PCA algorithms that are based on rank-one updates. While ROIPCA is typically more accurate, fROIPCA is faster and has comparable accuracy. We show the relation between fROIPCA and an existing popular gradient algorithm for online PCA, and in particular, prove that fROIPCA is in fact a gradient algorithm with an optimal learning rate. We demonstrate numerically the advantages of our algorithms over existing state-of-the-art algorithms in terms of accuracy and runtime.
Minimax rates for sparse signal detection under correlation
Authors: Kotekal Subhodh , Gao Chao
Published: November 2023

We fully characterize the nonasymptotic minimax separation rate for sparse signal detection in the Gaussian sequence model with $p$ equicorrelated observations, generalizing a result of Collier, Comminges and Tsybakov. As a consequence of the rate characterization, we find that strong correlation is a blessing, moderate correlation is a curse and weak correlation is irrelevant. Moreover, the threshold correlation level yielding a blessing exhibits phase transitions at the $\sqrt{p}$ and $p-\sqrt{p}$ sparsity levels. We also establish the emergence of new phase transitions in the minimax separation rate with a subtle dependence on the correlation level. Additionally, we study group structured correlations and derive the minimax separation rate in a model including multiple random effects. The group structure turns out to fundamentally change the detection problem from the equicorrelated case and different phenomena appear in the separation rate.
Timing of maternal nutrient restriction during mid- to late-gestation influences net umbilical uptake of glucose and amino acids in adolescent sheep
Authors: Trotta Ronald J , Vasquez-Hidalgo Manuel A , Smith Brandon I , Reed Sarah A , Govoni Kristen E , Vonnahme Kimberly A , Swanson Kendall C
Published: November 2023

Previous research demonstrated that maternal nutrient restriction during mid- to late-gestation influenced net umbilical uptakes of glucose and amino acids in sheep. However, it is unclear how the timing and duration of nutrient restriction during mid- to late-gestation influences net uterine, uteroplacental, and fetal flux of glucose and amino acids. On day 50 of gestation, 41 adolescent ewe lambs carrying singletons were randomly assigned to one of six dietary treatments: 1) 100% of nutrient requirements from days 50 to 90 of gestation (CON; n = 7); 2) 60% of nutrient requirements (RES; n = 7) from days 50 to 90 of gestation; 3) 100% of nutrient requirements from days 50 to 130 of gestation (CON-CON; n = 6); 4) 100% of nutrient requirements from days 50 to 90 of gestation and 60% of nutrient requirements from days 90 to 130 of gestation (CON-RES; n = 7); 5) 60% of nutrient requirements from days 50 to 90 of gestation and 100% of nutrient requirements from days 90 to 130 of gestation (RES-CON; n = 7); or 6) 60% of nutrient requirements from days 50 to 130 of gestation (RES-RES; n = 7). On day 90 (n = 14) and day 130 (n = 27), intraoperative procedures were performed to evaluate uteroplacental blood flows, collect blood samples, and then ewes were euthanized. Net uterine, uteroplacental, and umbilical fluxes of glucose and amino acids were calculated by multiplying blood flow by the arterial-venous concentration difference. Data from days 90 and 130 were analyzed separately using ANOVA in SAS. Maternal nutrient restriction during mid-gestation increased (P = 0.04) net umbilical glucose uptake but, maternal nutrient restriction during late-gestation decreased (P = 0.02) net umbilical glucose uptake. Net umbilical essential amino acid uptake decreased (P = 0.03) with nutrient restriction during mid-gestation; however, net umbilical uptakes of Phe (P = 0.02), Thr (P = 0.05), Met (P = 0.09), and His (P = 0.08) increased or tended to increase after nutrient restriction during late-gestation. These data demonstrate that net umbilical glucose and amino acid uptakes were influenced by the timing of nutrient restriction during mid- to late-gestation. Elevated net umbilical glucose uptake after mid-gestational nutrient restriction was sustained throughout late-gestation, independent of late-gestational feeding level. Long-term adaptations in umbilical glucose uptake may have implications for prenatal and postnatal growth and development of the offspring.
Associations of automated body condition scores at dry-off and through early lactation with milk yield of Holstein cows
Authors: Pinedo Pablo J , Manríquez Diego , Azocar Joaquín , De Vries Albert
Published: November 2023

The objective of this study was to analyze the associations of body condition score (BCS) and BCS change (∆BCS) during the dry period and the first 100 d of lactation with daily milk yield. Examining the involvement of health status in the associations between BCS and milk yield was a secondary objective of this research. Data included 12,042 lactations in 7,626 Holstein cows calving between April 2019 and January 2022 in a commercial dairy operation located in Colorado, USA. BCSs were generated daily by an automated BCS camera system located at the exit of the milking parlor. The assessment points selected for this study were dry-off (BCSdry), calving (BCS1), 7 DIM (BCS7), 14 DIM (BCS14), 21 DIM (BCS21), and nadir (nBCS; defined as the lowest daily BCS from calving to 100 DIM). Subsequently, these BCS were categorized considering quartiles (Q1 = 25% lowest BCS; Q4 = 25% greatest BCS), separately for primiparous and multiparous cows. Changes in BCS were calculated from dry-off to calving (multiparous); and from calving to 7 DIM, 14 DIM, 21 DIM, and nadir and assigned into quartile categories considering Q1 as the 25% of cows with the greatest decrease of BCS. Lactations were classified based on the number of health events before nadir as healthy, affected by one event, or having multiple events. Data were examined in primiparous and multiparous cows separately using ANOVA. The least square means for daily milk at 60 DIM and 305 DIM were calculated by category of BCS and ∆BCS at multiple time points and time periods. Subsequently, lactation curves were created by BCS and ∆BCS categories and by health status. Multivariable models included calving season and BCS1 as covariables. The largest differences in milk yield among categories of BCS and ∆BCS were identified for BCS originated at nadir and for the ∆BCS between calving and nadir. The differences in average daily milk yield between cows in the lowest and the greatest nBCS category (Q1 vs. Q4) were 3.3 kg/d (60 DIM) and 3.4 kg/d (305 DIM) for primiparous cows and 2.4 kg/d (60 DIM) and 2.1 kg/d (305 DIM) for multiparous cows. During the period from calving to nadir, primiparous cows in Q1 (greatest decrease of BCS) produced 4.3 kg/d (60 DIM) and 3.8 kg/d (305 DIM) more than cows in Q4. For multiparous cows, the differences were 3.0 kg/d (60 DIM) and 1.9 kg/d (305 DIM) in favor of Q1 cows. Overall, the associations between BCS and ∆BCS categories and milk yield were not consistent across time and they depended on the parity category. Nonetheless, as the assessment of BCS and ∆BCS approached the nadir, the association between greater milk yield and lower BCS or greater reduction in BCS became more evident.
Cubic time-spline fitting and interpolation for five-axis CNC machining
Authors: Wu Qin , Yuan Chun-Ming , Shen Li-Yong , He Shi-Tao , Gao Xiao-Shan
Published: November 2023

In CNC machining, G01 codes are widely used to represent the tool path. Directly interpolating these G01 codes is time-consuming and may cause discontinuities. In this paper, we propose a time-spline curve fitting method that combines tool path fitting and feedrate scheduling into a single step for five-axis CNC machining. The input for this method consists of a three-dimensional linear path of the tool tip in the workpiece coordinate system and two-dimensional tool orientations in the machine coordinate system (MCS). The output is a fitted tool path in the MCS represented by a five-dimensional smooth time-parametric B-spline curve, simply referred to as the time-spline curve. The time-spline curve provides not only position information but also kinematic information, including velocity, acceleration, and jerk for each axis, directly derived from the first, second, and third derivatives of the curve. To meet fitting error constraints and axial kinematic constraints, our objective is to find the time-spline curve that is time-optimal. We formulate the optimization problem as a nonlinear optimization model and design a recursive algorithm to solve it. The resulting time-spline curve demonstrates high accuracy and fully utilizes the machine’s kinematic capabilities. Along the tool path defined by the time-spline curve, exact interpolation points can be straightforwardly obtained according to the interpolation period. Simulations and experimental results indicate that the proposed method yields a time-optimal time-spline curve with the desired precision and kinematic constraints.
Sublethal effect of chlorpyrifos on predatory behavior and physiology of Eocanthecona furcellata (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae)
Authors: Xu Shu , Yao Qiong , Quan Linfa , Dong Yizhi , Chen Bingxu , Zeng Dongqiang
Published: November 2023

Insecticides have been known to reduce the predation efficacy of natural enemies. However, the mechanism of the sublethal effect of insecticides on the functional response of predators remains unclear. This study investigated the sublethal effects of the broad-spectrum insecticide chlorpyrifos on the predatory bug Eocanthecona furcellata (Wolff), which is a potential biological control agent against pests in integrated pest management (IPM) programs. After exposure to a sublethal concentration of chlorpyrifos, the predation capacity and the maximum predatory number of E. furcellata increased by 11.27 and 15.26%, respectively, with prey handling time decreased by 15.07%, and the searching efficiency increased by 5.88–12.61%. Additionally, the intraspecific interference effect was enhanced. Glutathione S-transferase (GST) activity was significantly decreased after 12- to 60-h treatment. At 12 h after treatment, the expression levels of GST gene (GST3), acetylcholinesterase gene (AChE), and cytochrome P450 monooxygenasegene (cyp6B1) were significantly up-regulated by 1.47-, 1.48-, and 2.05-fold, respectively, while GST gene (GST1) was significantly down-regulated by 16.67-fold. These results indicated that a sublethal chlorpyrifos concentration inhibited the GST activity and stimulated the predatory behavior of E. furcellata. The results will advance our understanding of the toxicological mechanism of predatory stink bug responses to insecticides and predict chlorpyrifos’ effects on predators in an IPM program.
Development and evaluation of a rapid one-step high sensitivity real-time quantitative PCR system for minor BCR-ABL (e1a2) test in Philadelphia-positive acute lymphoblastic leukemia (Ph+ ALL)
Authors: Hidaka Michihiro , Inokuchi Koiti , Uoshima Nobuhiko , Takahashi Naoto , Yoshida Nao , Ota Shuichi , Nakamae Hirohisa , Iwasaki Hiromi , Watanabe Kenichiro , Kosaka Yoshiyuki , Komatsu Norio , Meguro Kuniaki , Najima Yuho , Eto Tetsuya , Kondo Takeshi , Kimura Shinya , Yoshida Chikashi , Ishikawa Yuichi , Sawa Masashi , Hata Tomoko , Horibe Keizo , Iida Hiroatsu , Shimomura Takeshi , Dobashi Nobuaki , Sugiura Isamu , Makiyama Junya , Miyagawa Naoyuki , Sato Asuka , Ito Ryuta , Matsumura Itaru , Kanakura Yuzuru , Naoe Tomoki
Published: November 2023

Objective

Minimal residual disease assessment of BCR-ABL messenger ribonucleic acid levels is crucial in Philadelphia chromosome-positive acute lymphoblastic leukemia for prognosis and treatment planning. However, accurately quantifying minor BCR-ABL transcripts, which comprise 70% of Philadelphia chromosome-positive acute lymphoblastic leukemia cases, lacks a national-approved method.

Methods

We developed the “Otsuka” minor BCR-ABLmessenger ribonucleic acid assay kit with exceptional precision (0.00151%). Minor BCR-ABL messenger ribonucleic acid levels were analyzed in 175 adults, 36 children with acute lymphoblastic leukemia and 25 healthy individuals to evaluate the kit’s performance.

Results

The “Otsuka” kit showed high concordance with a commonly used chimeric gene screening method, indicating reliable detection of positive cases. Quantitative results demonstrated a robust correlation with both a laboratory-developed test and a diagnostic research product. The “Otsuka” kit performs comparably or even surpass to conventional products, providing valuable insights into Philadelphia chromosome-positive acute lymphoblastic leukemia pathology.

Conclusions

The ‘Otsuka” minor BCR-ABL messenger ribonucleic acid assay kit exhibits excellent performance in quantifying minor BCR-ABL transcripts in Philadelphia chromosome-positive acute lymphoblastic leukemia patients. Our results align well with established screening methods and show a strong correlation with laboratory-developed tests and diagnostic research products. The “Otsuka” kit holds great promise as a valuable tool for understanding Philadelphia chromosome-positive acute lymphoblastic leukemia pathology and guiding effective treatment strategies.
Enhancing Diversity in Undergraduate Degree Programs in Forestry and Related Natural Resources: a Brief Review of Critical Issues and Promising Actions
Authors: Bullard Steven H , Walker T J , Burger Leslie
Published: November 2023

Although forestry and related natural resources (FRNR) undergraduate degree programs in the United States have become increasingly diverse in recent years, women and minorities remain underrepresented in multiple disciplines; this is particularly true in forestry undergraduate programs. We reviewed over one hundred reports and publications to help understand the critical issues that must be addressed to enhance diversity in FRNR undergraduate programs. Based on that review, here we summarize eight critical issues in recruiting and retaining a more diverse FRNR undergraduate student body, and we also present promising actions to address the issues. Our goal is to more widely communicate validated ideas and practices, thereby prompting further discussion and effective actions to make more tangible gains in enhancing the diversity of FRNR undergraduate degree programs in the United States in the future.

Study Implications: To be effective managers and stewards of forestry and related natural resources (FRNR), professionals must be effective in developing, communicating, and implementing plans and actions. From recommendations for a single stand or forest, to community-level natural resource issues, to state, regional, and national policy decisions, FRNR professionals must be trusted by increasingly diverse stakeholders in our society. FRNR professions can become more diverse in terms of gender as well as race and ethnicity by developing and implementing actions that address specific critical issues in undergraduate enrollment. A more diverse and society-ready cadre of leaders in FRNR will help to ensure healthy biotic communities are restored, sustained, and valued while meeting long-run societal needs.
The CFD simulation of E1619 propeller open-water tests validated by the EFD in the NCKU towing tank
Authors: Lin Yu-Hsin , Hasan Ahmad Darori
Published: November 2023

This study established a Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) model based on a dynamic mesh strategy to conduct a comprehensive numerical investigation of the performance of the E1619 propeller in open-water tests. To capture the turbulence flows around the propeller, a large eddy simulation (LES) turbulence model was implemented. In order to validate the simulation results, a series of open-water tests were conducted in the towing tank at National Cheng Kung University, resulting in a successful achievement of total uncertainties of less than ∼6%. The approach of simultaneous grid and time refinement was utilized to perform the discretization analysis. Eventually, the simulation results were employed to analyze the hydrodynamic performance and flow structure around the propeller, resulting in a conclusion based on the attained level of accuracy. The results indicate that the cases for a propeller with a strut exhibit favorable predictions compared to those of a single propeller, with error values for the thrust coefficients and propeller efficiencies falling below 6%. On the other hand, the torque coefficient was more accurately estimated for the cases of a single propeller than for those of a propeller with a strut, with error values below 2%.
Comparing the efficacy of endoscopic endonasal versus microscopic transsphenoidal approach for the management of sellar and suprasellar tumors: a systematic review and meta-analysis protocol
Authors: Tango Tamara , Daniel Jeremiah Oluwatomi Itodo , Mugenyi Nathan , Abongha Gobti Beltus , Mesfin Samuel , Javed Saad , Omran Murad Othman , Eltingary Mazin M , Kyaruzi Victor Meza
Published: November 2023

Managing sellar and suprasellar tumors is challenging due to their diverse origins and proximity to critical structures. The transsphenoidal surgical approach has become the preferred method, evolving from transcranial attempts to reduce morbidity. Microscopic transsphenoidal techniques have been refined over time, with endoscopic endonasal surgery emerging as a significant advancement. Due to the multifaceted nature of these approaches, the complexities of the pathology and the paucity of data from specific regions, understanding the prevalence, characteristics and management outcomes of sellar and suprasellar tumors is crucial for informing healthcare practices and resource allocation. This study aims to collate evidence-based insights into the efficacy of the endoscopic endonasal approach compared with the microscopic transsphenoidal approach as a surgical intervention for sellar and suprasellar tumors, following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis guidelines for 2020. To source pertinent information, we will rely on four primary central databases: PubMed, EMBASE, SCOPUS and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials. The primary outcome measure will be the surgical outcome’s effectiveness in achieving tumor resection and preserving pituitary function. The study protocol is duly registered with the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO), with no requirement for ethical approval as it exclusively relies on previously published research. We aim to publish our findings in scientific journals and present the abstract at conferences to guide clinical practice. PROSPERO Registration Number: CRD42023461972: available via https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42023461972.
Advancements in robotic arm-based 3D bioprinting for biomedical applications
Authors: Li Kai , Huang WenHui , Guo HaiTao , Liu YanYan , Chen Shuxian , Liu Heng , Gu Qi
Published: November 2023

3D bioprinting emerges as a critical tool in biofabricating functional 3D tissue or organ equivalents for regenerative medicine. Bioprinting techniques have been making strides in integrating automation, customization, and digitalization in coping with diverse tissue engineering scenarios. The convergence of robotic arm-based 3D bioprinting techniques, especially in situ 3D bioprinting, is a versatile toolbox in the industrial field, promising for biomedical application and clinical research. In this review, we first introduce conceptualized modalities of robotic arm-based bioprinting from a mechanical perspective, which involves configurative categories of current robot arms regarding conventional bioprinting strategies. Recent advances in robotic arm-based bioprinting in tissue engineering have been summarized in distinct tissues and organs. Ultimately, we systematically discuss relative advantages, disadvantages, challenges, and future perspectives from bench to bedside for biomedical application.
Better Existing Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene Can Reduce the Risk of Cholera in an Endemic Setting: Results From a Prospective Cohort Study From Kolkata, India
Authors: Islam Md Taufiqul , Im Justin , Ahmmed Faisal , Kim Deok Ryun , Tadesse Birkneh Tilahun , Kang Sophie , Khanam Farhana , Chowdhury Fahima , Ahmed Tasnuva , Firoj Md Golam , Aziz Asma Binte , Hoque Masuma , Park Juyeon , Jeon Hyon Jin , Kanungo Suman , Dutta Shanta , Zaman Khalequ , Khan Ashraful Islam , Marks Florian , Kim Jerome H , Qadri Firdausi , Clemens John D
Published: November 2023

Background

Global cholera control efforts rely heavily on effective water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) interventions in cholera-endemic settings.

Methods

Using data from a large, randomized controlled trial of oral cholera vaccine conducted in Kolkata, India, we evaluated whether natural variations in WASH in an urban slum setting were predictive of cholera risk. From the control population (n = 55 086), baseline WASH data from a randomly selected “training subpopulation” (n = 27 634) were analyzed with recursive partitioning to develop a dichotomous (“better” vs “not better”) composite household WASH variable from several WASH features collected at baseline, and this composite variable was then evaluated in a mutually exclusive “validation population” (n = 27 452). We then evaluated whether residents of better WASH households in the entire population (n = 55 086) experienced lower cholera risk using Cox regression models. Better WASH was defined by a combination of 4 dichotomized WASH characteristics including safe source of water for daily use, safe source of drinking water, private or shared flush toilet use, and always handwashing with soap after defecation.

Results

Residence in better WASH households was associated with a 30% reduction in risk of cholera over a 5-year period (adjusted hazard ratio, 0.70 [95% confidence interval, .49–.99]; P = .048). We also found that the impact of better WASH households on reducing cholera risk was greatest in young children (0–4 years) and this effect progressively declined with age.

Conclusions

The evidence suggests that modest improvements in WASH facilities and behaviors significantly modify cholera risk and may be an important component of cholera prevention and elimination strategies in endemic settings.

Clinical Trials Registration. NCT00289224.
The 14-3-3 protein GRF8 modulates salt stress tolerance in apple via the WRKY18-SOS pathway
Authors: Fan Zihao , Zhu Yuqing , Kuang Wei , Leng Jun , Wang Xue , Qiu Linlin , Nie Jiyun , Yuan Yongbing , Zhang Rui-Fen , Wang Yongzhang , Zhao Qiang
Published: November 2023

Salinity is a severe abiotic stress that limits plant survival, growth, and development. 14-3-3 proteins are phosphopeptide-binding proteins that are involved in numerous signaling pathways, such as metabolism, development, and stress responses. However, their roles in salt tolerance are unclear in woody plants. Here, we characterized an apple (Malus domestica) 14-3-3 gene, GENERAL REGULATORY FACTOR 8 (MdGRF8), the product of which promotes salinity tolerance. MdGRF8 overexpression improved salt tolerance in apple plants, whereas MdGRF8-RNA interference (RNAi) weakened it. Yeast 2-hybrid, bimolecular fluorescence complementation, pull-down, and coimmunoprecipitation assays revealed that MdGRF8 interacts with the transcription factor MdWRKY18. As with MdGRF8, overexpressing MdWRKY18 enhanced salt tolerance in apple plants, whereas silencing MdWRKY18 had the opposite effect. We also determined that MdWRKY18 binds to the promoters of the salt-related genes SALT OVERLY SENSITIVE 2 (MdSOS2) and MdSOS3. Moreover, we showed that the 14-3-3 protein MdGRF8 binds to the phosphorylated form of MdWRKY18, enhancing its stability and transcriptional activation activity. Our findings reveal a regulatory mechanism by the MdGRF8–MdWRKY18 module for promoting the salinity stress response in apple.
Near-term investments in forest management support long-term carbon sequestration capacity in forests of the United States
Authors: Coulston John W , Domke Grant M , Walker David M , Brooks Evan B , O’Dea Claire B
Published: November 2023

The forest carbon sink of the United States offsets emissions in other sectors. Recently passed US laws include important climate legislation for wildfire reduction, forest restoration, and forest planting. In this study, we examine how wildfire reduction strategies and planting might alter the forest carbon sink. Our results suggest that wildfire reduction strategies reduce carbon sequestration potential in the near term but provide a longer term benefit. Planting initiatives increase carbon sequestration but at levels that do not offset lost sequestration from wildfire reduction strategies. We conclude that recent legislation may increase near-term carbon emissions due to fuel treatments and reduced wildfire frequency and intensity, and expand long-term US carbon sink strength.
Tissue adhesive, ROS scavenging and injectable PRP-based ‘plasticine’ for promoting cartilage repair
Authors: Li Shiao , Niu Dawei , Fang Haowei , Chen Yancheng , Li Jinyan , Zhang Kunxi , Yin Jingbo , Fu Peiliang
Published: November 2023

Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) that has various growth factors has been used clinically in cartilage repair. However, the short residence time and release time at the injury site limit its therapeutic effect. The present study fabricated a granular hydrogel that was assembled from gelatin microspheres and tannic acid through their abundant hydrogen bonding. Gelatin microspheres with the gelatin concentration of 10 wt% and the diameter distribution of 1–10 μm were used to assemble by tannic acid to form the granular hydrogel, which exhibited elasticity under low shear strain, but flowability under higher shear strain. The viscosity decreased with the increase in shear rate. Meanwhile, the granular hydrogel exhibited self-healing feature during rheology test. Thus, granular hydrogel carrying PRP not only exhibited well-performed injectability but also performed like a ‘plasticine’ that possessed good plasticity. The granular hydrogel showed tissue adhesion ability and reactive oxygen species scavenging ability. Granular hydrogel carrying PRP transplanted to full-thickness articular cartilage defects could integrate well with native cartilage, resulting in newly formed cartilage articular fully filled in defects and well-integrated with the native cartilage and subchondral bone. The unique features of the present granular hydrogel, including injectability, plasticity, porous structure, tissue adhesion and reactive oxygen species scavenging provided an ideal PRP carrier toward cartilage tissue engineering.
Administered dosage and effective dose estimated from 81Rb-rubidium hydroxide for lung ventilation scintigraphy using 81mKr noble gas
Authors: Kamiya Takashi , Iimori Takashi , Maeda Yukito , Yada Nobuhiro , Hayashi Naoya , Iguchi Harumi , Narita Masataka
Published: November 2023

The aim of this study was to estimate the administered dosage of 81mKr noble gas as calculated by the radioactivity of 81Rb-rubidium hydroxide (81RbOH). The administered dosage was regarded as the total amount of 81mKr noble gas. The radioactivity of 81mKr was calculated using the radioactivity of 81RbOH at the examination, the beginning of inhalation, the inhalation duration and the attenuation volume from the generator to the patient for 81mKr noble gas. In addition, we created an Internet survey and asked National University Hospital in Japan to respond to questions regarding the parameters of concern. Survey responses were provided by 38 hospitals (response rate was 90.5%). Twenty-seven hospitals (64.3%) examined lung ventilation scintigraphy using 81mKr noble gas. The mean administered dosage and the effective dose of lung ventilation scintigraphy using 81mKr noble gas were 35.8 ± 22.1 GBq and 0.97 ± 0.60 mSv, respectively.
On the coupling and decoupling of mind wandering and perception: a shared metabolism account
Authors: Bruckmaier M , Albrecht V , Tachtsidis I , Lavie N
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Mind wandering (MW) has been associated with reduced responsiveness to external stimuli (“perceptual decoupling”). Conversely, increased perceptual demands of a task result in reduced MW. Here we propose a neurobiological account attributing the mutually-limiting relationship of MW and perception to brain-wide limits on cerebral metabolism. Since overall cerebral metabolism is known to remain constant, despite increased mental task demands, we tested whether increased perceptual processing load in a visual task will result in reduced oxygen metabolism in MW-related medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) regions.

Methods

We used broadband near-infrared spectroscopy to measure oxidation states of the cytochrome-c-oxidase enzyme (oxCCO), an intracellular marker of metabolism, in mPFC while sampling participants’ MW experiences during their performance of a visual task of either low (feature search) or high(conjunction search) perceptual load.

Results

Increased perceptual load in the task resulted in reduced oxCCO signal in mPFC regions related to MW reports. High perceptual load was also found to specifically suppress detailed (and hence more metabolism-demanding) rather than vague MW.

Discussion

Overall, the results support a shared metabolism account of the relationship between MW and perception and demonstrate that attentional-regulation of metabolism only supports ongoing detailed MW when perceptual processing demands are low.
High Diversity of Curtobacterium flaccumfaciens in Poinsettia and Detection of Three Pathogenicity Plasmids for Identification of C. flaccumfaciens pv. poinsettiae
Authors: Bultreys Alain , Gheysen Isabelle
Published: November 2023

Outbreaks in Europe have raised concerns about poinsettia bacterial canker caused by Curtobacterium flaccumfaciens pv. poinsettiae, described in the United States. Using a semiselective medium containing aztreonam and fosfomycin and selection during isolation based on matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) spectra, 424 Curtobacterium strains were isolated from Belgian poinsettias of African and European origin. Different populations coexisted: 130 strains were identified as C. flaccumfaciens with scores ≥2.0 and 294 with scores <2.0 or as another Curtobacterium. MALDI-TOF MS libraries constructed using similar medium and extraction procedure and a pathogenicity test on poinsettia were used to screen collections from poinsettia and wheat, a possible alternative host, for C. flaccumfaciens pv. poinsettiae. The concatenated recA- gyrB partial sequences showed that 114 poinsettia or wheat strains belonged to different Curtobacterium species. Eighty-eight nonpathogenic strains and four U.S. strains from litter were intermingled with bean pathogenic C. flaccumfaciens pv. flaccumfaciens strains in the three genetic groups of C. flaccumfaciens but lacked their pathogenicity markers. Four new European recA- gyrB sequatypes of C. flaccumfaciens pv. poinsettiae, obtained from symptomatic and asymptomatic poinsettias, were distinguished from three American sequatypes. Six sequatypes were pathogenic in tests, belonged to genetic groups related to two different genomospecies, and possessed a plasmid. Sequencing of six plasmids revealed three related plasmids containing proteases and a polygalacturonase found only in strains pathogenic in pathogenicity tests and specifically identified by polygalacturonase-based PCR and loop-mediated isothermal amplification assays. Similarities between plant and litter Curtobacterium and the role of plasmids in pathogenicity and punctual transmission of pathogenicity among heterogeneous C. flaccumfaciens are suggested.
Chromosome-Scale Genome Sequence Resource for Two Neopestalotiopsis spp. Isolates with Different Virulence in Strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa)
Authors: Han Hyeondae , Jang Yoon Jeong , Oh Youngjae , Marin Marcus Vinicius , Huguet-Tapia Jose , Peres Natalia A. , Lee Seonghee
Published: November 2023

Several Neopestalotiopsis spp. have been reported to affect strawberry worldwide. Here, we sequenced two isolates of Neopestalotiopsis 19-02 (highly virulent) and 13-481 (moderately virulent) recovered from commercial strawberry fields in Florida and generated chromosome-scale assemblies using the Oxford Nanopore Technologies and Illumina platforms. Each genome assembly for 19-02 and 13-481 contained putative telomere sequences at the 5′ and 3′ ends. By analyzing the collinearity of the two newly assembled genomes and verifying the conserved telomere sequence at the end of each chromosome, we confirmed that the genome of Neopestalotiopsis spp. consists of seven basic chromosomes. Benchmarking Universal Single-Copy Orthologs (BUSCO) analysis showed 98.5% of conserved core genes for both genome assemblies, 19-02 and 13-481. Phylogenetic analysis with internal transcribed spacer, beta-tubulin, and translation elongation factor regions obtained from the assemblies 19-02 and 13-481 demonstrated that the highly virulent isolate 19-02 is phylogenetically distinct from moderate virulent N. rosae 13-481. Comparative genome analysis of the high-quality reference genome assemblies provided in this study will facilitate the identification of genomic regions responsible for the different virulence of the Neopestalotiopsis pathogen to strawberry.

[Formula: see text] The author(s) have dedicated the work to the public domain under the Creative Commons CC0 “No Rights Reserved” license by waiving all of his or her rights to the work worldwide under copyright law, including all related and neighboring rights, to the extent allowed by law, 2024.
Genomic Resource Insights into Strain WZ-12: An Antimicrobial-Producing Streptomyces Isolate from Star Anise Rhizosphere Soil
Authors: Pan Jieming , Geng Xiaoshan , Zhu Yulin , Liu Qin
Published: November 2023

Strain WZ-12, isolated from the rhizosphere soil of star anise trees, exhibits significant antifungal efficacy against a variety of fungi, including Colletotrichum horii, the pathogenic fungus responsible for anthracnose in star anise. Based on 16S rRNA gene sequencing and phylogenetic analysis, the strain was identified as a member of the Streptomyces genus. The genome of WZ-12 comprises a linear chromosome of 9,169,400 bp and a plasmid of 378,325 bp, possessing a G + C content of 71.12%. Of note, the genome encompasses 8,172 protein-coding genes, 21 rRNA genes, 74 tRNA genes, and 89 other noncoding RNA genes. The COG, Swiss-Prot, GO, KEGG, and NR databases annotated up to 79.17, 50.50, 13.17, 37.51, and 90.43% of potential genes, respectively. Remarkably, the genome hosts 175 antimicrobial resistance genes and 33 secondary metabolite gene clusters that likely contribute to the biosynthesis of diverse bioactive compounds such as antibiotics and agents with antitumor, antioxidant, immunosuppressive, anti-inflammatory, or stress tolerance properties. These findings highlight the potential of WZ-12 as a promising source of novel bioactive molecules and suggest its significant value as a resource for developing innovative antimicrobial agents.

[Formula: see text] Copyright © 2024 The Author(s). This is an open access article distributed under the CC BY-NC-ND 4.0 International license .