bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Respectable standards of living: The alternative lens of maintenance costs, Britain 1270–1860
Authors: Humphries Jane
Published: June 2024

This paper argues that in all societies there is considerable agreement about what goods and services are needed to provide a decent living, and that this standard can be measured by the expense involved in maintaining people of good standing. Maintenance costs include two components of living costs that are neglected in conventional approaches. First, in contrast to the usual focus on a fixed basket of commodities, maintenance costs capture changes in the composition and quality of the goods required for a respectable lifestyle. Second, unlike conventional accounting, they include the costs of the household services required to turn the basket commodities into livings. Ignored in the conventional methodology, the inclusion of these costs represents a core innovation. More than 4600 observations, drawn mainly from primary sources, trace levels and trends in maintenance costs for Britain from 1270 to 1860. These can be compared with established cost of living indicators to offer a complementary perspective on real consumption that accommodates aspirational goods and the input of household labour. The struggle to support families at respectable standards emerges as driving industriousness and motivating prudence among a class that played a major role in economic development.
Response to von Schmalensee et al.
Authors: Garcia‐Costoya Guillermo , Williams Claire E. , Faske Trevor M. , Moorman Jacob D. , Logan Michael L.
Published: June 2024

Von Schmalensee et al. present two concerns about our study. While the first stems from a general disagreement about our simulation methodology, the second is a useful observation of a modelling choice we made that affected simulation outcomes, but in ways that do not invalidate our original conclusions.
Unravelling the hypoglycemic mechanism of Fuzhuan brick tea: insights into intestinal microbiota and metabolites in type 2 diabetes mellitus mice
Authors: Liu Yukun , Xiang Xingliang , Zeng Zhaoxiang , Guo Meiling , Li Yiping , Zhan Zecai , Huang Rongzeng , Zhao Min , Jin Shuna , Song Chengwu
Published: June 2024

Fuzhuan brick tea (FBT), a post‐fermented tea, has been demonstrated to have an antidiabetic effect. However, evidence of its hypoglycemic effect via gut microbiota and intestinal metabolites has been limited. This work aimed to reveal the potential mechanism of FBT against type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) mice by regulating gut flora and short‐chain fatty acids (SCFAs). Thus, we established a T2DM mice model induced by streptozotocin and a high‐fat diet, and the 16S rDNA gene sequencing analysed gut microbiota changes, while GC/MS detected SCFAs levels in colonic contents. As a result, after being treated with FBT, the biochemical index of mice revealed significant improvement and the levels of colonic SCFAs were enhanced. Through correlation analysis, the key gut microbiota for the hypoglycemic effect of FBT were identified including Cyanobacteria, Alloprevotella, Erysipelatoclostridium, etc. Additionally, the antidiabetic actions of FBT were mediated by the SCFAs‐GPR41/43‐GLP‐1 pathway and alleviating inflammation related to the increased gut barrier with the tight junction proteins (Claudin‐1, Occludin and ZO‐1). To sum up, our study provides insights into the possible mechanism of FBT in T2DM and might promote the application of FBT as a potential hypoglycemic agent in the future.
Comprehensive analysis of lncRNA‐associated ceRNA network reveals novel potential prognostic regulatory axes in glioblastoma multiforme
Authors: Bazrgar Maryam , Mirmotalebisohi Seyed Amir , Ahmadi Mohsen , Azimi Parisa , Dargahi Leila , Zali Hakimeh , Ahmadiani Abolhassan
Published: June 2024

Deciphering the lncRNA‐associated competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network is essential in decoding glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) pathogenesis by regulating miRNA availability and controlling mRNA stability. This study aimed to explore novel biomarkers for GBM by constructing a lncRNA‐miRNA‐mRNA network. A ceRNA network in GBM was constructed using lncRNA, mRNA and miRNA expression profiles from the TCGA and GEO datasets. Seed nodes were identified by protein–protein interaction (PPI) network analysis of deregulated‐mRNAs (DEmRNAs) in the ceRNA network. A lncRNA‐miRNA‐seed network was constructed by mapping the seed nodes into the preliminary ceRNA network. The impact of the seed nodes on the overall survival (OS) of patients was assessed by the GSCA database. Functional enrichment analysis of the deregulated‐lncRNAs (DElncRNA) in the ceRNA network and genes interacting with OS‐related genes in the PPI network were performed. Finally, the positive correlation between seed nodes and their associated lncRNAs and the expression level of these molecules in GBM tissue compared with normal samples was validated using the GEPIA database. Our analyzes revealed that three novel regulatory axes AL161785.1/miR‐139‐5p/MS4A6A, LINC02611/miR‐139‐5p/MS4A6A and PCED1B‐AS1/miR‐433‐3p/MS4A6A may play essential roles in GBM pathogenesis. MS4A6A is upregulated in GBM and closely associated with shorter survival time of patients. We also identified that MS4A6A expression positively correlates with genes related to tumour‐associated macrophages, which induce macrophage infiltration and immune suppression. The functional enrichment analysis demonstrated that DElncRNAs are mainly involved in neuroactive ligand–receptor interaction, calcium/MAPK signalling pathway, ribosome, GABAergic/Serotonergic/Glutamatergic synapse and immune system process. In addition, genes related to MS4A6A contribute to immune and inflammatory‐related biological processes. Our findings provide novel insights to understand the ceRNA regulation in GBM and identify novel prognostic biomarkers or therapeutic targets.
Enhancing mango quality control: A novel approach to spongy tissue inspection through image clustering and machine learning models via X‐ray imaging
Authors: Kiran Patil Rajvardhan , Aradwad Pramod , Arunkumar T. V. , Parray Roaf Ahmad
Published: June 2024

The globally renowned Alphonso mango is esteemed for its exceptional flavor, fragrance, texture, and extended shelf life. However, it faces a substantial challenge with spongy tissue (ST) disorder, affecting up to 30% of a single lot. This issue leads to the rejection of entire batches during export due to delayed detection, causing significant produce loss. Additionally, the current destructive assessment method is inadequate, as physically inspecting only a few mangoes within a batch does not ensure overall quality, emphasizing the need for a non‐destructive approach. To address these challenges, this study proposes a non‐destructive approach utilizing X‐ray imaging to identify ST in Alphonso mangoes, employing machine learning (ML) for binary classification. We captured and augmented 216 X‐ray images, utilizing various augmentation techniques. K‐means clustering effectively distinguished healthy and ST‐affected areas in mango fruits. For automated classification, ML models were fine‐tuned through grid search hyperparameter optimization within a 5‐fold cross‐validation framework. The CNN model achieved impressive accuracies of 99.20% and 96.82% at threshold values of .5 and .95, respectively, on the test dataset, while the SVM model attained overall accuracy rates of 95.23% and 87.35% for the same thresholds. Our study demonstrates the potential of machine learning in X‐ray imaging for detecting internal fruit issues, improving inspection for disease and damage identification, and enhancing quality control across the food industry. Practical implications include the implementation of non‐destructive inspection methods to reduce produce loss and ensure consistent quality in mango lots. Future research could focus on validating the model's efficacy with external datasets, evaluating its robustness in detecting various internal irregularities, and exploring advancements in X‐ray imaging technology for broader applications in agriculture.

Practical applications

The suggested non‐destructive approach provides a practical solution for quality control, especially in export scenarios. The versatility of the ML‐powered X‐ray imaging technique to examine internal irregularities in various fruits beyond mangoes broadens its potential application in the fruit industry for sorting and grading purposes. This innovation contributes to heightened consumer satisfaction, providing a cost‐effective and scalable solution for widespread implementation. In summary, the findings of the study show promise for revolutionizing mango quality control, particularly for the esteemed Alphonso variety, and propelling advancements in fruit inspection methodologies across the industry.
Impact of an oral nutritional supplement on the body composition of older adults with or at risk of malnutrition in an institutionalised setting: A randomised controlled trial
Authors: Jayawardena Ranil , Wickramawardhane Prasani , Dalpatadu Chamila , Hills Andrew P. , Ranasinghe Priyanga
Published: June 2024

Background

Malnutrition often manifests as a body weight (BW) reduction and unhealthy alteration in body composition. The present study aimed to assess the efficacy of an oral nutritional supplement (ONS) in improving BW and body composition among older adults with malnutrition.

Methods

An open‐label randomised controlled, parallel‐group study was conducted among older adults (age ≥ 60 years) with/at risk of malnutrition (mini nutrition assessment‐short form score ≤ 11). In total, 50 participants were randomly assigned to the intervention (IG) and control (CG) groups (1:1 ratio). The IG received the ONS (57 g/day; 247 kcal/serving, 12 g protein) before bedtime for 12 weeks. CG received 200 mL of water. Anthropometric measurements, body composition analysis, and dietary and physical activity assessments were performed at the beginning and end of the study.

Results

Forty‐two participants (IG: 20, CG: 22) completed the study. The mean ± SD ages of the IG and CG were 75.4 ± 6.1 and 74.8 ± 5.2 years, respectively (p = 0.73). The IG had a significant increase in BW (+1.68 ± 1.16 vs. −0.46 ± 0.95 kg; p < 0.001), lean mass (+1.23 ± 0.93 vs. −0.45 ± 0.90 kg; p < 0.001) and fat mass (+0.54 ± 0.82 vs. −0.06 ± 0.82 kg; p = 0.02) compared to the CG. One‐quarter of the IG (n = 5) achieved a weight gain > 5% of BW, whereas none in the CG did (p = 0.01). No significant changes were observed in bone mineral content in either group.

Conclusions

For malnourished older adults, supplementing with an ONS, along with regular food intake, significantly increased BW, lean mass and fat mass compared to control following the regular diet without supplementation.
Naïve learning as a coordination device in social networks
Authors: Cheng Wenhao
Published: June 2024

I propose a framework describing how naïve learning in networks may determine coordination outcomes of product adoption. Individuals receive initial signals regarding the value of the product, communicate afterwards, and make adoption decisions based on that. In the framework of DeGroot's Naïve Learning, the model suggests that as beliefs converge, the result will converge to a unique cutoff equilibrium, similar to a global game. I then describe how adoption rates and social welfare depend on network structures by showing that the variance of the unit eigenvector centrality of the listening matrix, which represents inequality in network positions, is a sufficient statistic for adoption in equilibrium. More adoption is expected with high inequality in network positions if the value of the product to be adopted is low, and vice versa. The relationship between social welfare and inequality in network positions aligns with that of adoption and inequality in network positions, except in cases of very low product value, where increased adoption may reduce overall social welfare.
Organic medium‐growing chickens fed live black soldier fly larvae: A welfare improvement study
Authors: Bongiorno Valentina , Gariglio Marta , Zambotto Valeria , Cappone Eleonora Erika , Biasato Ilaria , Renna Manuela , Gasco Laura , Bergagna Stefania , Manenti Isabella , Macchi Elisabetta , Gai Francesco , Schiavone Achille
Published: June 2024

The overall beneficial effect of live black soldier fly larvae (BSFL) on the welfare of broiler chickens, turkeys, and laying hens has already been discussed in the literature. However, scant information is available regarding the benefits of feeding live BSFL to medium‐growing chicken hybrids reared under organic/free‐range conditions, and whose welfare is frequently cited as being inadequate. The aim of this research was to advance our knowledge of this topic. To this end, 240 label naked neck birds (Hubbard JA57 hybrid) were assigned, at 21 days of age, to four experimental groups (6 replicates/treatment, 10 chickens/replicate), created according to sex (M/F) and the provision of a 10% live BSFL dietary supplementation (control males, control females, larvae males, and larvae females), and raised until 82 days of age. We performed behavioural observations, a tonic immobility test, and an avoidance distance (AD) test. We assessed feather damage and cleanliness, hock burn, footpad dermatitis, and skin lesion scores, and determined the concentration of excreta corticosterone metabolites (ECM) and the heterophile to lymphocyte heterophile/lymphocyte (H/L) ratio. The behavioural observations demonstrated increased physical and foraging activity (p < 0.05) in the live BSFL administered groups compared with C ones, providing valuable data on the explorative and recreational behaviour of this chicken genotype. The results also evidenced the usefulness of live BSFL as a fear reducer in females, as those receiving the BSFL supplement moved closer to the operator during the AD test (p < 0.01). No physical injuries or damage were observed on the birds, regardless of whether they received the BSFL supplementation or not. The ECM were unaffected by BSFL supplementation, while the H/L ratio was higher in the larvae groups than in the control ones (p = 0.050). In conclusion, live BSFL provision could constitute a powerful tool for improving life quality in medium‐growing chickens. Further research is required to clarify the stress modulation role of live BSFL on poultry production.
Bupleurum milamense sp. nov. (Apiaceae) from Milam Valley, Western Himalaya, India
Authors: Yadav Khooshboo , Singh Sunil Kumar , Kumar Ravindra , Versha  , Dey Poushali , Agnihotri Priyanka
Published: June 2024

A new species, Bupleurum milamense (Apiaceae) is described from the alpine forest region of the Milam Valley, Uttarakhand, India. The new species is similar to B. gracillimum Klotzsch in the nature of the plant, leaf shape, number of bracts, shorter umbel rays, number, shape and size of bracteoles, bracteoles shorter than the flowers, and number of flowers per umbellules, However, it significantly differs by having an erect stem position, in the number of umbel rays, fruit shape and size, and number of vallecular and commissural vittae. A detailed description, photographs, distribution map, and a comparison with allied species are provided.
Long‐term trend and interannual variation in evapotranspiration of a young temperate Douglas‐fir stand over 2002–2022 reveals the impacts of climate change
Authors: Li Xinhao , Black T. Andrew , Zha Tianshan , Jassal Rachhpal S. , Nesic Zoran , Lee Sung‐Ching , Bourque Charles P.‐A. , Hao Shaorong , Jin Chuan , Liu Peng , Jia Xin , Tian Yun
Published: June 2024

The shortage of decades‐long continuous measurements of ecosystem processes limits our understanding of how changing climate impacts forest ecosystems. We used continuous eddy‐covariance and hydrometeorological data over 2002–2022 from a young Douglas‐fir stand on Vancouver Island, Canada to assess the long‐term trend and interannual variability in evapotranspiration (ET) and transpiration (T). Collectively, annual T displayed a decreasing trend over the 21 years with a rate of 1% yr−1, which is attributed to the stomatal downregulation induced by rising atmospheric CO2 concentration. Similarly, annual ET also showed a decreasing trend since evaporation stayed relatively constant. Variability in detrended annual ET was mostly controlled by the average soil water storage during the growing season (May–October). Though the duration and intensity of the drought did not increase, the drought‐induced decreases in T and ET showed an increasing trend. This pattern may reflect the changes in forest structure, related to the decline in the deciduous understory cover during the stand development. These results suggest that the water‐saving effect of stomatal regulation and water‐related factors mostly determined the trend and variability in ET, respectively. This may also imply an increase in the limitation of water availability on ET in young forests, associated with the structural and compositional changes related to forest growth.
The haplotype‐resolved genome of diploid Chrysanthemum indicum unveils new acacetin synthases genes and their evolutionary history
Authors: Hou Zhuangwei , Yang Song , He Weijun , Lu Tingting , Feng Xunmeng , Zang Lanlan , Bai Wenhui , Chen Xueqing , Nie Bao , Li Cheng , Wei Min , Ma Liangju , Han Zhengzhou , Zou Qingjun , Li Wei , Wang Li
Published: June 2024

Acacetin, a flavonoid compound, possesses a wide range of pharmacological effects, including antimicrobial, immune regulation, and anticancer effects. Some key steps in its biosynthetic pathway were largely unknown in flowering plants. Here, we present the first haplotype‐resolved genome of Chrysanthemum indicum, whose dried flowers contain abundant flavonoids and have been utilized as traditional Chinese medicine. Various phylogenetic analyses revealed almost equal proportion of three tree topologies among three Chrysanthemum species (C. indicum, C. nankingense, and C. lavandulifolium), indicating that frequent gene flow among Chrysanthemum species or incomplete lineage sorting due to rapid speciation might contribute to conflict topologies. The expanded gene families in C. indicum were associated with oxidative functions. Through comprehensive candidate gene screening, we identified five flavonoid O‐methyltransferase (FOMT) candidates, which were highly expressed in flowers and whose expressional levels were significantly correlated with the content of acacetin. Further experiments validated two FOMTs (CI02A009970 and CI03A006662) were capable of catalyzing the conversion of apigenin into acacetin, and these two genes are possibly responsible acacetin accumulation in disc florets and young leaves, respectively. Furthermore, combined analyses of ancestral chromosome reconstruction and phylogenetic trees revealed the distinct evolutionary fates of the two validated FOMT genes. Our study provides new insights into the biosynthetic pathway of flavonoid compounds in the Asteraceae family and offers a model for tracing the origin and evolutionary routes of single genes. These findings will facilitate in vitro biosynthetic production of flavonoid compounds through cellular and metabolic engineering and expedite molecular breeding of C. indicum cultivars.
Modeling US blood donor deferrals under a policy of individual risk assessment for HIV risk sexual behavior
Authors: Whitaker Barbee I. , Huang Yin , Gubernot Diane , Eder Anne F. , Herbenick Debby , Fu Tsung‐chieh , Forshee Richard A. , Anderson Steven A.
Published: June 2024

Background

In May 2023, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) released final guidance for blood donor eligibility that recommended the elimination of 3‐month deferral for men who have sex with men (MSM) and the related deferral for women who have sex with MSM. In its place, FDA introduced an individual risk assessment policy of asking all presenting blood donors, regardless of sex or gender, if they have had a new partner or more than one sexual partner in the last 3 months and deferring those who also report anal sex (penile–anal intercourse) during this period. We modeled the possible impact of this policy on the US blood donor base.

Study Design and Methods

We developed a computational model to estimate the percentage of blood donors who would be deferred under a policy of individual HIV risk assessment.

The model incorporated demographic information about donors and national survey data on HIV risk behaviors and included age and sex distributions and dependencies.

Results

Our model estimates that approximately 1.2% of US blood donors would be deferred under the individual HIV risk assessment paradigm.

Discussion

The model predicts a relatively minor effect of replacing the time‐based deferral for MSM with individual risk‐based deferral for sexual behavior. As US blood centers implement this new policy, the effect may be mitigated by donor gains, which warrant further study. The new policy is unlikely to adversely affect the availability of blood and blood components.
Current state of undergraduate medical school training in transfusion medicine and its impact on postgraduate trainee knowledge
Authors: Rahmani Mahboubeh , Chargé Sophie , Bodnar Melanie , Callum Jeannie , Hsia Cyrus , Lavoie Marianne , Lemay Anne‐Sophie , Mack Johnathan , Prokopchuk‐Gauk Oksana , Trudeau Jacqueline , Zeller Michelle P. , Lin Yulia
Published: June 2024

Background

Studies have described poor transfusion medicine (TM) knowledge in postgraduate trainees. The impact of undergraduate medical TM education on postgraduate knowledge is unclear.

Methods

Canadian medical schools were surveyed on the number of hours dedicated to TM teaching and topics covered by curricula during 2016–2020. Postgraduate trainees attending Transfusion Camp in 2021 completed a pretest of 20 multiple‐choice questions. The survey results and pretest scores were compared to evaluate the association between undergraduate medical TM education and pretest scores.

Results

The survey was completed by 16 of 17 Canadian medical schools. The number of hours (h) of TM teaching were <2 h (25%), 3–4 h (25%), and >4 h (50%). Twelve of 19 Transfusion Camp topics were covered in ≥50% of schools. Eleven medical schools provided ethics approvals/waivers to include trainee pretest scores in the analysis (N = 200). The median pretest scores by medical school ranged from 48% to 70%. No association was found between number of TM teaching hours and average pretest scores (p = .60). There was an association between higher postgraduate year level and individual pretest score (p < .0001). The analysis by topic demonstrated questions where trainees from different schools performed uniformly well or poorly; other topics showed considerable variation.

Conclusion

Variation in quantity and content of undergraduate TM teaching exists across Canadian medical schools. In this limited assessment, the number of TM teaching hours was not associated with performance on the pretest. This study raises the opportunity to re‐evaluate the delivery (content, timing, consistency) of TM education in undergraduate medical schools.
A Comparison of Admissions Data Between Virtual and In-person Dental School Interviews
Authors: Fullmer Peter , Aldosari Muath A. , Katebi Negin , Park Sang E.
Published: June 2024

Objectives: The COVID-19 pandemic forced many dental schools to conduct some or all of their interviews virtually. The purpose of the study was to evaluate whether an association existed between interview setting and applicant characteristics, specifically focusing on the difference in the interview score between applicants who chose virtual interviews and those who chose in-person interviews.Methods: Demographic and admission data were obtained from the 101 interviewed candidates from the XXXX 2021-2022 application cycle. Distribution of demographics and interview preference were assessed. Simple and multiple generalized linear models (GLM) were run to examine the difference in the applicants’ interview score between in-person and virtual interviews.Results: Of the 29 in-person interviews, 16 (55.17%) were offered acceptances, while 31 (43.06%) of the 72 virtual interviews were accepted, a difference that was not statistically significant (p-value = 0.380). Preference for the interview format was not associated with any of the applicants’ factors including gender, current residence (the four bureau-designated regions), overall grade point average (GPA), science GPA, Dental Admissions Test (DAT) Academic Average score, and perceptual ability test (PAT) score. In addition, there was no statistical difference in the interview score between the two interview formats.Conclusions: The effect of virtual interviewing on interview scores and applicants’ admission rate was found to be statistically insignificant. If further study with larger sample sizes confirms this finding, virtual interviewing could be considered as a viable alternative to in-person interviewing in the dental school admissions process.
Large Eddy Simulation of Laminar and Turbulent Shock/Boundary Layer Interactions in a Transonic Passage
Authors: Priebe Stephan , Wilkin II Daniel , D’Aquila Luke , Breeze-Stringfellow Andy , Jothiprasad Giridhar , Cheung Lawrence C.
Published: June 2024

Shock/boundary layer interactions (SBLI) are a fundamental fluid mechanics problem relevant in a wide range of applications including transonic rotors in turbomachinery. This paper uses wall-resolved large eddy simulation (LES) to examine the interaction of normal shocks with laminar and turbulent inflow boundary layers in transonic flow. The calculations were performed using GENESIS, a high-order, unstructured LES solver. The geometry created for this study is a transonic passage with a convergent-divergent nozzle that expands the flow to the desired Mach number upstream of the shock and then introduces constant radius curvature to simulate local airfoil camber. The Mach numbers in the divergent section of the transonic passage simulate single-stage commercial fan blades. The results predicted with the LES calculations show significant differences between laminar and turbulent SBLI in terms of shock structure, boundary layer separation and transition, and aerodynamic losses. For laminar flow into the shock, significant flow separation and low-frequency unsteadiness occur, while for turbulent flow into the shock, both the boundary layer loss and the low-frequency unsteadiness are reduced. The time period of the unsteadiness was hypothesized to align with the time it takes for turbulent structures to convect from the shock to the trailing edge and acoustic disturbances to travel back from the trailing edge to the shock, and this is supported by the LES results.
Channel utilization of media access control protocols for underwater acoustic networks with propagation delay and mobility
Authors: Wang Ruoyu , Zheng Y. Rosa
Published: June 2024

This paper investigates the impact of mobility on underwater acoustic communication networks in which the propagation delay is comparable to or larger than the packet duration. An underwater acoustic wireless network, consisting of static and mobile nodes, is studied for its link-layer channel utilization. Synchronous and asynchronous media access control (MAC) protocols are employed with ALOHA, TDMA (time-division multiple access), and artificial intelligence (AI) agent nodes. The simulation results of a multi-node network show that the asynchronous MAC protocols achieve up to 6.66× higher channel utilization than synchronous protocols by allowing time slots to be shorter than the maximum propagation delay among nodes and permitting asynchronous transmission time. The high mobility of a few mobile nodes also favors asynchronous protocols and increases the overall channel utilization. However, node mobility causes more difficulties for the AI node to learn the environment, which may be ineffective to achieve higher gains in channel utilization.
Nuclease-assisted selection of slow-off rate aptamers
Authors: Alkhamis Obtin , Canoura Juan , Wang Linlin , Xiao Yi
Published: June 2024

Conventional directed evolution methods offer the ability to select bioreceptors with high binding affinity for a specific target in terms of thermodynamic properties. However, there is a lack of analogous approaches for kinetic selection, which could yield affinity reagents that exhibit slow off-rates and thus remain tightly bound to targets for extended periods. Here, we describe an in vitro directed evolution methodology that uses the nuclease flap endonuclease 1 to achieve the efficient discovery of aptamers that have slow dissociation rates. Our nuclease-assisted selection strategy can yield specific aptamers for both small molecules and proteins with off-rates that are an order of magnitude slower relative to those obtained with conventional selection methods while still retaining excellent overall target affinity in terms of thermodynamics. This new methodology provides a generalizable approach for generating slow off-rate aptamers for diverse targets, which could, in turn, prove valuable for applications including molecular devices, bioimaging, and therapy.
No antagonism or cross-resistance and a high barrier to the emergence of resistance
in vitro
for the combination of islatravir and lenacapavir
Authors: Diamond Tracy L. , Goh Shih Lin , Ngo Winnie , Rodriguez Silveria , Xu Min , Klein Daniel J. , Grobler Jay A. , Asante-Appiah Ernest
Published: June 2024

Islatravir (ISL) is a deoxyadenosine analog that inhibits HIV-1 reverse transcription by multiple mechanisms. Lenacapavir (LEN) is a novel capsid inhibitor that inhibits HIV-1 at multiple stages throughout the viral life cycle. ISL and LEN are being investigated as once-weekly combination oral therapy for the treatment of HIV-1. Here, we characterized ISL and LEN
in vitro
to assess combinatorial antiviral activity, cytotoxicity, and the potential for interactions between the two compounds. Bliss analysis revealed ISL with LEN demonstrated additive inhibition of HIV-1 replication, with no evidence of antagonism across the range of concentrations tested. ISL exhibited potent antiviral activity against variants encoding known LEN resistance-associated mutations (RAMs) with or without the presence of M184V, an ISL RAM in reverse transcriptase (RT) . Static resistance selection experiments were conducted with ISL and LEN alone and in combination, initiating with either wild-type virus or virus containing the M184I RAM in RT to further assess their barrier to the emergence of resistance. The combination of ISL with LEN more effectively suppressed viral breakthrough at lower multiples of the compounds’ IC
50
(half-maximal inhibitory concentration) values and fewer mutations emerged with the combination compared to either compound on its own. The known pathways for development of resistance with ISL and LEN were not altered, and no novel single mutations emerged that substantially reduced susceptibility to either compound. The lack of antagonism and cross-resistance between ISL and LEN support the ongoing evaluation of the combination for treatment of HIV-1.
Gene essentiality in the solventogenic
Clostridium acetobutylicum
DSM 792
Authors: Delarouzée Alexandre , Lopes Ferreira Nicolas , Baum Chloé , Wasels François
Published: June 2024

Clostridium acetobutylicum
is a solventogenic, anaerobic, gram-positive bacterium that is commonly considered the model organism for studying acetone-butanol-ethanol fermentation. The need to produce these chemicals sustainably and with a minimal impact on the environment has revived the interest in research on this bacterium. The recent development of efficient genetic tools allows to better understand the physiology of this micro-organism, aiming at improving its fermentation capacities. Knowledge about gene essentiality would guide the future genetic editing strategies and support the understanding of crucial cellular functions in this bacterium. In this work, we applied a transposon insertion site sequencing method to generate large mutant libraries containing millions of independent mutants that allowed us to identify a core group of 418 essential genes needed for
in vitro
development. Future research on this significant biocatalyst will be guided by the data provided in this work, which will serve as a valuable resource for the community.

IMPORTANCE

Clostridium acetobutylicum
is a leading candidate to synthesize valuable compounds like three and four carbons alcohols. Its ability to convert carbohydrates into a mixture of acetone, butanol, and ethanol as well as other chemicals of interest upon genetic engineering makes it an advantageous organism for the valorization of lignocellulose-derived sugar mixtures. Since, genetic optimization depends on the fundamental insights supplied by accurate gene function assignment, gene essentiality analysis is of great interest as it can shed light on the function of many genes whose functions are still to be confirmed. The data obtained in this study will be of great value for the research community aiming to develop
C. acetobutylicum
as a platform organism for the production of chemicals of interest.
Draft genome of
Pseudomonas
sp. XK-1, a marine bacterium capable of degrading lignin and Mn(II) oxidation
Authors: Wang Xukang , Pan Haixia , Zhou Hao , Feng Zhongqing , Li Ang , Guan Xiaoyan
Published: June 2024

We report the draft genome sequence of marine bacteria,
Pseudomonas
sp. XK-1. Strain XK-1 could facilitate Mn(II) oxidation with lignin as the sole carbon source. The genome length of XK-1 is 4,751,776 bp, with a G + C content of 62.61%. Genome analyses reveal the carbon and manganese cycling driven by bacteria.
Complete genome sequence of a
Listeria monocytogenes
serotype 1 isolated from a critically ill patient in Italy, 2023
Authors: Amadesi Stefano , Vocale Caterina , Guariglia Davide , Lazzarotto Tiziana , Ambretti Simone , Gaibani Paolo
Published: June 2024

Listeria monocytogenes
, a concerning foodborne pathogen, causes severe infections in vulnerable subjects such as pregnant women and the elderly. In this article, we present the complete genome sequence of P4_LIS, an
L. monocytogenes
isolated from a patient with invasive bacteria infection.
Comparison of analgesic effect of pericapsular nerve group block and supra-inguinal fascia iliaca compartment block on dynamic pain in patients with hip fractures: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Koh Won Uk , Kim Hyungtae , Kim Yeon Ju , Park Ji In , Yeo Hyun-Jin , Ro Young-Jin , Kim Ha-Jung
Published: June 2024

Background

Patients with hip fracture often experience severe pain, particularly during movement or slight positional change, prior to the occurrence of surgery. It is essential to explore the appropriate analgesic methods before surgery in patients with hip fracture, especially those capable of alleviating dynamic pain. Pericapsular nerve group (PENG) block was introduced as a useful technique for hip analgesia. In this study, we aimed to compare the reduction in dynamic pain between the PENG block and supra-inguinal fascia iliaca compartment block (SIFICB).

Methods

This prospective trial included 80 hip fracture patients aged ≥19 years, with an American Society of Anesthesiologists Physical Status of 1–4 and a baseline dynamic pain score ≥4 on the numerical rating scale. The patients were randomly allocated into the PENG block (n=40) and SIFICB group (n=40). For the PENG block and SIFICB, 20 mL and 30 mL of 0.3% ropivacaine was used, respectively. The primary outcome was reduction in dynamic pain scores at 30 min following the peripheral nerve block. Dynamic pain score was evaluated when the leg was passively raised.

Results

A total of 79 patients were included in the final analysis, and the reductions in pain score during hip flexion were 3.1±2.4 and 2.9±2.5 in the PENG block and SIFICB groups, respectively, which was statistically insignificant (p=0.75). Moreover, no significant differences were observed in any of the outcomes.

Conclusions

PENG block and SIFICB could effectively provide analgesia for dynamic pain in patients with hip fractures, with no significant difference between the two groups.

Trial registration number

NCT04677348.
An Illuminating Physical Model for Production on free Positron and Electron — Energy Basic State Field of the Universe (V)
Authors: Yang Xiaodong , Yang Yuchen , Luo Zhen , Bi Yuanbo
Published: June 2024

In this paper, we introduce Dirac equation, the hole theory of positive and negative matter, and Anderson localization theory briefly. We analyze physical conditions of localization: [Formula: see text] inequality relation. On this basis, we try to put forward the physical mode of production of free positron and electron. In this model, when [Formula: see text] rays travel through a vacuum, due to the action in which quantum superfluid rushes to the heat source ([Formula: see text] ray), the quantum superfluid polymerization, local disorder, two-model quantum superfluid shunt, quantum superfluid in a vacuum is localized by the electro-vector and magnetic-vector in the electromagnetic field of the [Formula: see text] ray to form electrons and positrons; in essence, the electro-vector and magnetic-vector are components of [Formula: see text] quantum in the electromagnetic field ([Formula: see text] ray); and the spin of the [Formula: see text] ray is composed of two components. After localization, positive and negative polarities whose phases are opposite are formed. The positron and electron charges produced in this model have the same quantum numbers such as the mass, spin and average lifetime, and the additive quantum numbers such as charge, baryon number, lepton number, and singularity number should be equal but opposite, the magnetic moment direction of the positive and negative particles are opposite when their spin directions are the same. We can take experimental verification of this model. Once verified, the localization theory also seems to open a door for us to study the structure of sub-quarks and lepton, and also provides a theoretical basis for harnessing the enormous energy generated by the annihilation of positive and negative matter.
Minor Faults Diagnosis for Under-Sampled Lithium-Ion Batteries Based on Static-Dynamic Compensation
Authors: Ali Maab Salah Mohamedelamin , Li Jinglun , Gu Xin , Tao Xuewen , Ziheng Mao , Shang Yunlong
Published: June 2024

With the rapid proliferation of electric vehicles, the safety concerns related to lithium-ion batteries are gaining more and more attention. Fault diagnosis is a key approach to reducing the risk of battery failure. However, existing battery management systems (BMS) apply under-sampled voltage signal acquisition, which leads to misdiagnosis and omission of faults. To address this issue, a minor fault early diagnosis method based on static-dynamic compensation voltage data is proposed. First, the voltages of the series-connected cells are asynchronously collected. Then, the collected voltage sequences from various modules are mapped to the voltage sequence of the target battery using the static-dynamic compensating method, which can obtain a new sequence with a significantly higher equivalent sampling frequency. Finally, the sample entropy method is employed to detect minor faults based on the new sequence after compensation. Experimental results reveal that the presented method can increase the sampling frequency by about 8 times. The proposed method can successfully detect minor short circuits and poor connection faults in the battery under different ambient temperatures.
Review—Recent Advancements in Sulfide Solid Electrolytes for All-Solid-State Lithium-Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Pilyugina Yulia , Kuzmina Elena V. , Kolosnitsyn Vladimir S.
Published: June 2024

This review gives a detailed overview of the challenges in using sulfide solid electrolytes in all-solid-state lithium-sulfur batteries and discusses strategies to overcome them. First, the general description of the synthetic procedure of the sulfide solid electrolytes is given, including descriptions of the potential ways for improvement of the electrolyte properties, such as ionic conductivity and air and moisture resistance. This is followed by a review of the polymer binders and matrices that can enhance the sulfide solid electrolytes mechanical strength. Subsequently, the ways to ensure the chemical stability on the anode-solid electrolyte interface are described. Finally, prototypes of the all-solid-state Li-S batteries, created by using the combination of all above-mentioned methods, are discussed.
Fabrication Method for Spin‐Coating ITO‐Competitive PEDOT:PSS onto PVDF Film
Authors: Johnson Luke , Staker Jessica , Warren Stephen , Schvaneveldt Kyle , Hunsaker Quinn , Laughlin Annie , Smalley Daniel
Published: June 2024

This paper shows a four‐order reduction of magnitude in sheet resistance for spin‐coating poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene):polystyrene sulfonate (PEDOT:PSS) onto polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) film for a final sheet resistance comparable to commercially available indium tin oxide‐ (ITO‐) coated PVDF film. The resulting PEDOT:PSS transparency is 10% less than the transparency for ITO:PVDF. This is done by the combination of four techniques from the literature including (i) varying layers, (ii) plasma etching, (iii) post‐treatment submersion in an ethylene glycol (EG) bath, and (iv) adding EG and a surfactant to the PEDOT:PSS solution. The PEDOT:PSS sheet resistance falls from over 3 megaohms/sq to between 600 and 150 ohms/sq depending on the number of layers. The one‐layer sample has a sheet resistance of 600 ohms/sq and an optical transparency of about 76%, and the five‐layer sample has a sheet resistance of 150 ohms/sq and an optical transparency of about 50%. These results reported here make PEDOT:PSS an attractive option for transparent piezoelectric micromachined ultrasonic transducer (PMUT) array applications.
Assessing Governability in Aquaculture Coastal Zones: New Insight from the International Level
Authors: Alsaleh Mohd
Published: June 2024

Historically, European Union (EU27) member states have held sway over the administration of aquaculture sectors. However, challenges have arisen within this regulatory framework, particularly concerning the implementation of sustainable conservation measures across the EU27 region. In response to perceived regulatory shortcomings, alternative strategies like economic and community‐based management have emerged. Thus, this study aims to investigate how global governance factors have influenced the growth of the aquaculture industry within the European Union (EU13) and European Union (EU14) from 1990 to 2023. To address endogeneity concerns, robust least squares, two‐stage least squares (2SLS), and ordinary least squares estimators were employed, yielding significant findings. Notably, the impact analysis reveals that property rights, economic stability, private sector quality, and private interest are pivotal drivers of aquaculture industry growth in EU14 developed countries compared to their EU13 developing counterparts. Conversely, the novelty of the paper shows that economic growth, social development, and aquaculture industry advancement hold greater significance in EU13 developing countries relative to EU14 developed ones, as indicated by the estimators. Given these insights, policymakers in EU13 developing countries are urged to prioritize initiatives aimed at fortifying property rights, economic stability, and private interest. Conversely, policymakers in EU14 developed countries are encouraged to focus on fostering economic growth, enhancing public sector quality, and promoting social development in blue farming.
Variables Affecting CA15.3 Tumor Antigen Expression and Antibodies against It in Female National Health and Nutritional Survey Participants
Authors: Cramer Daniel W. , Vitonis Allison F. , Fichorova Raina N. , Yamamoto Hidemi S. , Mudugno Francesmary , Finn Olivera J.
Published: June 2024

Background:

Cancers of ductal origin often express glycoprotein mucin 1 (MUC1), also known as CA15.3, with higher levels leading to poor prognosis. Conversely, anti-MUC1 antibodies develop in some patients, leading to better prognosis. We sought to identify epidemiologic factors associated with CA15.3 antigen or antibody levels.

Methods:

Levels of CA15.3 antigen and anti-CA15.3 IgG antibodies were measured in archived sera from 2,302 mostly healthy women from the National Health and Nutritional Survey; and epidemiologic predictors of their levels were examined using multivariate and correlational analyses.

Results:

Among racial groups, Black women had the highest levels of CA15.3 antigen and lowest levels of antibodies. Increasing body mass index and current smoking were associated with low anti-CA15.3 antibody levels. Low CA15.3 antigen levels were seen in oral contraceptive users and high levels in women who were pregnant or lactating at the time of blood collection, with the latter group also having high antibody levels. Past reproductive events associated with high antigen levels included the following: later age at menarche, having given birth, and history of endometriosis. Lower antigen levels were seen with increasing duration of OC use. Anti-CA15.3 antibody levels decreased with an increasing estimated number of ovulatory years.

Conclusions:

Key determinants of CA.15.3 antigen or antibody levels include the following: race, body mass index, smoking, later menarche, childbirth, number of ovulatory cycles, and endometriosis.

Impact:

This study supports the premise that known epidemiologic factors affecting risk for or survival after MUC1-expressing cancers may, at least partially, operate through their association with CA15.3 antigen or antibody levels.
Table S15 from Deep-Learning Model for Tumor-Type Prediction Using Targeted Clinical Genomic Sequencing Data
Authors: Darmofal Madison , Suman Shalabh , Atwal Gurnit , Toomey Michael , Chen Jie-Fu , Chang Jason C. , Vakiani Efsevia , Varghese Anna M. , Balakrishnan Rema Anoop , Syed Aijazuddin , Schultz Nikolaus , Berger Michael F. , Morris Quaid
Published: June 2024

Shapley values significantly associated with cancer types. Shapnorm = shapley effect score normalized across all predictions of the cancer type, stat_shap and pval_shap = bonferonni corrected outputs of Mann-Whitney U tests across distribution of Shapley value scores across cancer types vs non-cancer type predictions, shap_rank_ct = rank of the feature association within the cancer type it is associated with (i.e. 1 = top feature)
Figure S5: GDD-ENS Performance Across Purity Values from Deep-Learning Model for Tumor-Type Prediction Using Targeted Clinical Genomic Sequencing Data
Authors: Darmofal Madison , Suman Shalabh , Atwal Gurnit , Toomey Michael , Chen Jie-Fu , Chang Jason C. , Vakiani Efsevia , Varghese Anna M. , Balakrishnan Rema Anoop , Syed Aijazuddin , Schultz Nikolaus , Berger Michael F. , Morris Quaid
Published: June 2024

Assessment of GDD-ENS performance on the test set across reported purity values, binned in 10% increments. Count of each bin (top), and corresponding overall accuracy (light pink), and high-confidence accuracy (dark pink). Samples with NA purity values or >90% were removed, representing only 106 samples total.
Figure S12: Results flow for Met Site, Histology Prior from Deep-Learning Model for Tumor-Type Prediction Using Targeted Clinical Genomic Sequencing Data
Authors: Darmofal Madison , Suman Shalabh , Atwal Gurnit , Toomey Michael , Chen Jie-Fu , Chang Jason C. , Vakiani Efsevia , Varghese Anna M. , Balakrishnan Rema Anoop , Syed Aijazuddin , Schultz Nikolaus , Berger Michael F. , Morris Quaid
Published: June 2024

Flow of results for combination prior using either metastatic site (left) or histology (right). Metastatic Site prior is only applied to all metastatic samples (n = 2166), histological prior is applied to all test set examples with histological annotations (n = 4571). Arrow base represents pre-adjustment category, arrow head represents post-adjustment. Circle arrow indicates the number of samples that did not change categories after adjustment, i.e. 1406 samples that were correct and high confidence before and after skewing for metastatic biopsy site annotations.