bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Physio‐biochemical and histological alterations in response to sheath blight disease of rice (Oryza sativaL.)
Authors: Chhabra Rohit , Sharma Rajni , Hunjan Mandeep Singh , Sharma Vineet Kumar , Thakur Sapna , Chauhan Sanjeev
Published: September 2022

Sheath blight caused byRhizoctonia solaniis one of the most destructive rice diseases, leading to serious economic yield losses all over the world. The present studies were conducted to assess the impact of sheath blight infection on biochemical and anatomical attributes of a susceptible rice cultivar, i.e., PR 121. Post infection, an increase in endogenous salicylic acid (+97.93), phenols (+74.32%), flavonoids (+32.34%), proline (+74.03%), MDA (+28.78%), POD (+63.57%), CAT (+65.38%), PAL (+90.56%), SOD (+87.04%) and PPO (+53.25%) was due to a possible secondary defence response of the host plant. A significant decline of 61.77% in the total chlorophyll content was observed in the infected leaves over the healthy leaves, whereas lignins (−88.94%) were found to escalate upon infection. SEM observations of infected leaves revealed that the fungal hyphae could intercept surface structures like trichomes and rely on chemotaxis for the infestation. Depositions of phenolic substances might have resulted in the plugging, which caused the disorganization of vascular bundles and disruption of water channels, leading to the cellular collapse, indicating wilting of susceptible rice plants at later stages of infection. The presence of silica on an infected leaf surface indicates the occurrence of a stronger defence response during the early infection phase. The pathogen exhibited increased hyphal colonization, making intimate contact with the host tissues post infection. Hence, it can be concluded that sheath blight infection caused significant metabolic changes in the most efficient antioxidant system of the plant that could limit the cellular damage caused byR. solani. The information obtained by investigating the ultrastructural and metabolic events of healthy and diseased plant parts can assist in the development of effective sheath blight management strategies, thereby reducing the impact on the rice crop.
Examining illicit networks in laboratory experiments with a preliminary focus on communication
Authors: Neequaye David A. , Granhag Pär Anders , Segerberg Andreas , Petterson Daniel
Published: September 2022

Purpose

This research introduces a web application, the bot orchestrator, to assist researchers in developing paradigms to examine illicit networks in experiments. We implemented the application and a new paradigm to create mock networks using strangers. The proof‐of‐concept experiment examined communication when networks plan illicit activities.

Method

Participants assumed the role of an illicit network member—either a manager, a coordinator or an executor. They held some information the group needed to accomplish either a material or ideological goal: communication between the roles was imperative for success. We also manipulated the level of risk associated with communicating about the planning activities. For half of the participants, there was a moderate risk of communicating about the plans. For the other half, the risk of such communication was high. The procedure allowed us to examine who a network member was willing to communicate with, given the goal under pursuit and the associated risk level.

Results

Although goal‐type, risk level, and the Goal‐type × Risk Interaction did not significantly predict communication decisions, a content analysis suggested that participants were attempting to navigate the risks while pursuing their goals. Participants employed diverse communication strategies: individual differences explained the most variance regarding how network members communicate.

Conclusions

We hope the web application and paradigm this research introduces will facilitate further experiments examining illicit networks.
OmpR and Prc contribute to switch the Salmonella morphogenetic program in response to phagosome cues
Authors: López‐Escarpa David , Castanheira Sónia , García‐del Portillo Francisco
Published: September 2022

Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium infects eukaryotic cells residing within membrane‐bound phagosomes. In this compartment, the pathogen replaces the morphogenetic penicillin‐binding proteins 2 and 3 (PBP2/PBP3) with PBP2SAL/PBP3SAL, two proteins absent in Escherichia coli. The basis for this switch is unknown. Here, we show that PBP3 protein levels drop drastically when S. Typhimurium senses acidity, high osmolarity and nutrient scarcity, cues that activate virulence functions required for intra‐phagosomal survival and proliferation. The protease Prc and the transcriptional regulator OmpR contribute to lower PBP3 levels whereas OmpR stimulates PBP2SAL/PBP3SAL production. Surprisingly, despite being essential for division in E. coli, PBP3 levels also drop in non‐pathogenic and pathogenic E. coli exposed to phagosome cues. Such exposure alters E. coli morphology resulting in very long bent and twisted filaments indicative of failure in the cell division and elongation machineries. None of these aberrant shapes are detected in S. Typhimurium. Expression of PBP3SAL restores cell division in E. coli exposed to phagosome cues although the cells retain elongation defects in the longitudinal axis. By switching the morphogenetic program, OmpR and Prc allow S. Typhimurium to properly divide and elongate inside acidic phagosomes maintaining its cellular dimensions and the rod shape.
Genomic insight into genetic changes and shaping of major inbred rice cultivars in China
Authors: Ye Junhua , Zhang Mengchen , Yuan Xiaoping , Hu Dongxiu , Zhang Yuanyuan , Xu Siliang , Li Zhen , Li Ruosi , Liu Junrong , Sun Yanfei , Wang Shan , Feng Yue , Xu Qun , Yang Yaolong , Wei Xinghua
Published: September 2022

The annual planting area of major inbred rice (Oryza sativa) cultivars reach more than half of the total annual planting area of inbred rice cultivars in China. However, how the major inbred rice cultivars changed during decades of genetic improvement and why they can be prevalently cultivated in China remains unclear.

Here, we investigated the underlying genetic changes of major inbred cultivars and the contributions of landraces and introduced cultivars during the improvement by resequencing a collection of 439 rice accessions including major inbred cultivars, landraces, and introduced cultivars.

The results showed that landraces were the main genetic contribution sources of major inbred Xian (Indica) cultivars, while introduced cultivars were that of major inbred Geng (Japonica) cultivars. Selection scans and haplotype frequency analysis shed light on the reflections of some well‐known genes in rice improvement, and breeders had different preferences for the Xian's and Geng's breeding. Six candidate regions associated with agronomic traits were identified by genome‐wide association mapping, five of which were under positive selection in rice improvement.

Our study provides a comprehensive insight into the development of major inbred rice cultivars and lays the foundation for genomics‐based breeding in rice.
Unique structural features of claudin‐5 and claudin‐15 lead to functionally distinct tight junction strand architecture
Authors: Rajagopal Nandhini , Nangia Shikha
Published: September 2022

Members of the claudin family impart unique paracellular selectivity to tight junctions. However, the structure–function relationship between claudin's strand architecture and the paracellular charge‐ and size‐selectivity is not well‐understood. This work examines the molecular assembly of claudin‐5, a barrier‐forming protein, and claudin‐15, a channel‐forming protein, to determine their structural and functional properties. We adopt a bottom‐up approach starting from claudin monomers to build the molecular architecture of the tight junction strands. First, we investigated the cis assembly of claudin‐5 and ‐15 dimers using the Protein Association Energy Landscape method. Out of the millions of dimer conformations, we narrowed down key cis claudin‐5 and ‐15 dimer conformations that were thermodynamically and kinetically stable. Second, we performed the trans assembly of dimers to identify the tetrameric building blocks that serve as the repeat units for strand formation. Finally, the strand assembly of the tetrameric repeat units showed fundamentally distinct strand architectures. In claudin‐5, the cis and trans interactions seal the paracellular space, while in claudin‐15, the gaps in the paracellular space lead to pore formation. This detailed study suggests that each member of the claudin family is unique and requires systematic molecular‐level analysis for determining the strand architecture.
Perioperative pain disparity in children: A call for action
Authors: Tan Heidi , Mendoza Beverly A. , Fortier Michelle A. , Kain Zeev
Published: September 2022

Racial and ethnic disparities in both healthcare management and delivery have been extensively documented in medical literature. For example, patients from non‐White minority backgrounds in the United States have been found to experience worse clinical outcomes after surgery, to receive fewer surgical procedures, and to experience worse perioperative pain management compared with patients from non‐minority backgrounds. A recent NIH‐ACS Symposium on Surgical Disparities Research has identified an urgent need for research aimed at addressing and understanding these disparities. The present review summarizes existing literature describing perioperative pain disparities in children in the United States, as well as highlights the paucity of research in this domain. Specifically, there is a need for randomized control trials and health services research studying pediatric perioperative pain disparities. A multidisciplinary systems‐based approach would help translate findings from scientific research to clinical practice and is a crucial step to ensuring all children of diverse backgrounds receive optimal perioperative care.
How can we breed for phosphate efficiency in maize (Zea mays)?
Authors: Weiß Thea M. , Li Dongdong , Roller Sandra , Liu Wenxin , Hahn Volker , Leiser Willmar L. , Würschum Tobias
Published: September 2022

Future farming is required to produce high yields with reduced inputs. Increased fertilizer prices and policy goals underline the need to breed for nutrient‐efficient varieties. We therefore conducted a multienvironmental field trial comprising 400 maize genotypes, half elite lines and half doubled haploid lines from six European landraces and assessed yield parameters and corresponding phosphorus concentrations at two developmental stages. From these traits, we derived several measures for phosphate efficiency and evaluated them phenotypically and genetically. The results of this study revealed that ample variation for phosphate efficiency is present in maize. However, while elite material clearly outperformed all landraces with regard to yield‐related traits, some landrace genotypes indicated superior early development characteristics. The phosphate efficiency measures showed a complex genetic architecture, and hence, genomic selection appears best suited to assist their improvement. Taken together, breeding for phosphate efficiency is feasible but should be performed under the same conditions in which the crops are eventually grown because phosphate efficiency and what is deemed a sustainable P balance largely depends on the context.
Retrospective review of outcomes associated with metastatic melanoma patients treated with 1st‐line BRAF‐targeted therapy
Authors: Jones James , Lucey Rebecca , Corrie Pippa
Published: September 2022

BRAF‐mutant melanoma patients can theoretically access both immunotherapy and BRAF‐targeted therapy as treatment for metastatic disease. BRAF‐targeted therapy is increasingly used 1st line for poorer prognostic patients, so we wanted to assess realistic expectations of these patients accessing 2nd‐line immunotherapy. We conducted a retrospective review of clinical outcomes in 25 patients treated over the last 3 years with 1st‐line BRAF‐targeted therapy in a real‐world clinical setting at a UK‐based tertiary centre. Compared with the registration trials, our patients receiving 1st‐line BRAF‐targeted therapy had poorer performance status, higher disease burden, shorter median progression‐free survival (5.05 months, 95% CI: 3.96–8.88) and shorter median overall survival (11.5 months, 95% CI: 6.24 – not reached). Overall response rate was similar, at 64%. On disease progression, median survival was 2.34 months (95% CI: 1.62 – not reached). Only five patients went on to receive 2nd‐line immunotherapy. Metastatic melanoma patients treated with 1st‐line BRAF‐targeted therapy now have different demographics compared with those recruited to registration trials conducted over the last 10 years. In a modern‐day, real‐world setting, these patients should be counselled that only 1 in 5 are likely to receive 2nd‐line immunotherapy and their survival times are expected to be short.
Outcomes of a multidisciplinary transition clinic for youth with type 1 diabetes
Authors: Wongyai Wariya , Boonchaya‐anant Patchaya , Laichuthai Nitchakarn , Aroonparkmongkol Suphab , Veerapong Varaporn , Leepulsup Suwaputr , Teeratongdee Chantaporn , Anunapibut Nuntawan , Sahakitrungruang Taninee
Published: September 2022

Background

Emerging adults with type 1 diabetes (T1D) have several challenges regarding diabetes management and care transition from pediatric to adult services. In this study we aimed to assess the effectiveness of the newly established transition clinic for emerging adults with T1D.

Methods

We conducted an observational study of emerging adults with T1D treated in a transition clinic jointly operated by a pediatric and adult multidisciplinary care team during 2019–2021. A retrospective chart review of hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), frequency of clinic attendance, acute diabetes‐related complications, assessment of gaps in knowledge and behavior, and psychosocial outcomes was analyzed.

Results

A total of 21 patients with T1D were included. Median age at the transfer to the transition clinic was 24 years (range 21–34). Fifteen patients (71%) were successfully transferred to adult services; mean duration of follow‐up at the transition clinic was 9.2 months (SD 3.9). None of the patients was lost to follow‐up or experienced serious diabetes related complications. Mean (95% confidence interval) HbA1c levels decreased from 8.97% (7.87–10.07) at baseline to 8.25% (7.45–9.05) at the most recent visit (p = 0.01). A proportion of patients achieving the glycemic target (HbA1c < 7.5%) was increased from 24% at the first visit to 38% at the most recent visits. Patients' HbA1c levels at the adult clinic continued a favorable trend. Seven patients (33%) were identified as having symptoms of depression. Knowledge and behavioral gaps were identified and counselled by clinical care team.

Conclusion

The multidisciplinary transition clinic has shown to be beneficial in terms of improving glycemic control, maintaining continuity of care and clinic attendance.
Avoiding One‐Electron Oxidation of Biomolecules by 3,4‐Dihydroxy‐L‐Phenylalanine (DOPA)†
Authors: Neyra Recky Jael R. , Dántola M. Laura , Lorente Carolina
Published: September 2022

It has been proposed that 3,4‐dihydroxy‐L‐phenylalanine (DOPA) has antioxidant properties, and thus, the objective of this work was to evaluate the effect of adding DOPA during the photosensitized oxidation of tyrosine (Tyr), tryptophan (Trp), histidine (His), 2′‐deoxyguanosine 5′‐monophosphate (dGMP) and 2′‐deoxyadenosine 5′‐monophosphate (dAMP). It was observed that, upon pterin‐photosensitized degradation of a given biomolecule in acidic aqueous solutions, the rate of the biomolecule consumption decreases due to the presence of DOPA. Although DOPA deactivates the excited states of pterin (Ptr), biomolecules do as well, being the bimolecular quenching constants in the diffusional control limit, indicating that DOPA antioxidant mechanism is not a simple deactivation of Ptr excited states. Laser flash photolysis experiments provide evidence of the formation of DOPA radical (DOPA(–H)•, λMAX 310 nm), which is formed in a timescale longer than Ptr triplet excited state (3Ptr*) lifetime, ruling out its formation in a reaction between DOPA and 3Ptr*. The experimental results presented in this work indicate that the observed decrease on the rate of each biomolecule consumption due to the presence of DOPA is through a second one‐electron transfer reaction from DOPA to the biomolecule radicals.
C‐type lectin receptors in antifungal immunity: Current knowledge and future developments
Authors: Hatinguais Remi , Willment Janet A. , Brown Gordon D.
Published: September 2022

C‐type lectin receptors (CLRs) constitute a category of innate immune receptors that play an essential role in the antifungal immune response. For over two decades, scientists have uncovered what are the fungal ligands recognized by CLRs and how these receptors initiate the immune response. Such studies have allowed the identification of genetic polymorphisms in genes encoding for CLRs or for proteins involved in the signalisation cascade they trigger. Nevertheless, our understanding of how these receptors functions and the full extent of their function during the antifungal immune response is still at its infancy. In this review, we summarize some of the main findings about CLRs in antifungal immunity and discuss what the future might hold for the field.
Is regulatory innovation fit for purpose? A case study of adaptive regulation for advanced biotherapeutics
Authors: De Grandis Giovanni , Brass Irina , Farid Suzanne S.
Published: September 2022

The need to better balance the promotion of scientific and technological innovation with risk management for consumer protection has inspired several recent reforms attempting to make regulations more flexible and adaptive. The pharmaceutical sector has a long, established regulatory tradition, as well as a long history of controversies around how to balance incentives for needed therapeutic innovations and protecting patient safety. The emergence of disruptive biotechnologies has provided the occasion for regulatory innovation in this sector. This article investigates the regulation of advanced biotherapeutics in the European Union and shows that it presents several defining features of an adaptive regulation regime, notably institutionalized processes of planned adaptation that allow regulators to gather, generate, and mobilize new scientific and risk evidence about innovative products. However, our in‐depth case analysis highlights that more attention needs to be paid to the consequences of the introduction of adaptive regulations, especially for critical stakeholders involved in this new regulatory ecosystem, the capacity and resource requirements placed on them to adapt, and the new tradeoffs they face. In addition, our analysis highlights a deficit in how we currently evaluate the performance and public value proposition of adaptive regulations vis‐à‐vis their stated goals and objectives.
Enterprise risk management for automation in correctional facilities with pandemic and other stressors
Authors: Andrews Daniel J. , Eddy Timothy L. , Hollenback Kelsey S. , Sreekumar Shravan , Loose Davis C. , Pennetti Cody A. , Polmateer Thomas L. , Haug James C. , Oliver‐Clark Lessie I. , Williams Joi Y. , Manasco Mark C. , Smith Steven , Lambert James H.
Published: September 2022

Real‐time tracking of tool and equipment inventories is a critical function of many organizations and sectors. For prisons and correctional facilities, tracking and monitoring of assets such as cookware, hardware, keys, janitorial equipment, vocational/technical specialty tools, etc., is essential for safety, security, trust, efficiency, education, etc. The performance of automated systems for this purpose can be diminished by a variety of emergent and future sociotechnical factors alone and in combination. This article introduces a methodology for contractor evaluation and selection in acquisition of innovative asset management systems, with an emphasis on evolving system requirements under uncertainty. The methodology features a scenario‐based preferences analysis of emergent and future conditions that are disruptive to the performance of the asset‐control system. The conditions are across technologies, operating environments, regulations, workforce behaviors, offender behaviors, prices and markets, organizations, cyber threats, etc. The methodology addresses the influence and interaction of the conditions to disrupt system priorities. Examples include: (i) infectious disease disrupting priorities among requirements and (ii)  radio‐frequency identification (RFID) and wireless‐technology innovations disrupting priorities among stakeholders. The combinations of conditions that most and least matter for the system acquisition are characterized. The methodology constitutes a risk register for monitoring sources of risk to project performance, schedule, and cost throughout the system lifecycle. The results will be of interest to both practitioners and scholars engaged in systems acquisition as the pandemic interacts with other factors to affect risk, uncertainty, and resilience of organizational missions and operations.
Behavioral pathways to private well risk mitigation: A structural equation modeling approach
Authors: Mooney Simon , Boudou Martin , O'Dwyer Jean , Hynds Paul D.
Published: September 2022

Complex, multihazard risks such as private groundwater contamination necessitate multiannual risk reduction actions including seasonal, weather‐based hazard evaluations. In the Republic of Ireland (ROI), high rural reliance on unregulated private wells renders behavior promotion a vital instrument toward safeguarding household health from waterborne infection. However, to date, pathways between behavioral predictors remain unknown while latent constructs such as extreme weather event (EWE) risk perception and self‐efficacy (perceived behavioral competency) have yet to be sufficiently explored. Accordingly, a nationwide survey of 560 Irish private well owners was conducted, with structural equation modeling (SEM) employed to identify underlying relationships determining key supply management behaviors. The pathway analysis (SEM) approach was used to model three binary outcomes: information seeking, post‐EWE action, and well testing behavior. Upon development of optimal models, perceived self‐efficacy emerged as a significant direct and/or indirect driver of all three behavior types—demonstrating the greatest indirect effect (β = −0.057) on adoption of post‐EWE actions and greatest direct (β = 0.222) and total effect (β = 0.245) on supply testing. Perceived self‐efficacy inversely influenced EWE risk perception in all three models but positively influenced supply awareness (where present). Notably, the presence of a vulnerable (infant and/or elderly) household member negatively influenced adoption of post‐EWE actions (β = −0.131, p = 0.016). Results suggest that residential and age‐related factors constitute key demographic variables influencing risk mitigation and are strongly mediated by cognitive variables—particularly self‐efficacy. Study findings may help contextualize predictors of private water supply management, providing a basis for future risk‐based water interventions.
More support, knowledge and awareness are needed to prepare emergency department nurses to approach potential intimate partner violence victims
Authors: Aregger Lundh Annika , Tannlund Carolina , Ekwall Anna
Published: September 2022

Background

Intimate partner violence is a global health issue. In the emergency department, patients seek help for health problems that may be related to exposure to physical, psychological or sexual violence, or controlling behaviour from a current or former partner. Of the many victims that seek care in an emergency department, few are identified, especially among those whose chief complaint is not clearly related to recent physical abuse. Not having all the facts about a patient can jeopardise patient safety and delay treatment. The aim of this study was to describe experiences of caring for adults, subjected to intimate partner violence, from an emergency nurse perspective.

Methods

A qualitative semi‐structured interview study of nine emergency care specialist nurses was conducted using content analysis.

Findings

Two categories emerged: ‘Subtle signs’ and ‘Not being enough’. The short encounters in emergency care do not allow for deep conversations. The informants highlighted the need for more knowledge about what and how to ask in that specific context. Some mentioned situations where the question had been avoided due to lack of time to handle the answer. The interviews revealed the importance of regular discussions to increase awareness of intimate partner violence and its prevalence among patients.

Conclusions

The organisation plays an important role in putting the question about intimate partner violence on the daily agenda and giving time to emergency nurses and other professions for training and reflection.
Astronomical calibration of a ten‐million‐year Triassic lacustrine record in the Ordos Basin, North China
Authors: Li Yang , Yang Renchao
Published: September 2022

The division of geological time is of general interest as this allows a better understanding of the geological processes and Earth's evolutionary history. Astrochronology provides a way to evaluate high‐resolution timescales of Earth's climate changes. Astronomical tuning of orbitally forcedstratigraphic recordsto construct astronomical‐calibrated timescales has led to a progressive refinement of the geological timescale over the last decades. However, the Triassic remains a relatively weak link. A large lake with an area of 370 000 square kilometres formed in the Ordos Basin in North China during the Triassic Period. It has been demonstrated that the sedimentary deposits of the seventh Oil Member (Chang 7 Member) of the Triassic Yanchang Formation in the southern Ordos Basin responded to astronomically forced climate changes. However, the constructed astronomical‐calibrated timescales failed to reach an agreement. This study presents natural gamma ray logs and geochemical climate record of Fe and Al concentrations from the southern Ordos Basin margin that are dated precisely from 239 to 229 Ma by combined U–Pb dating and astrochronology. Therefore, the Chang 7 Member was deposited during the Ladinian and Carnian (late Middle through to earliest Late Triassic), this knowledge will refine the Triassic astronomical scale. The distribution of detrital zircon dates shows that the Chang 7 Member in the southern Ordos Basin has multiple provenance characteristics. The southern Ordos Basin is far from this provenance area, which is reflected in the low sediment accumulation rate (0.5 to 2.0 cm/kyr). In contrast to the lower part of Yanchang Formation underlying the Chang 7 Member, the large tuffs and seismites from the bottom of Chang 7 Member indicate the initiation of tectonic collision between North Qinling orogenic belt and the southern margin of the Ordos Basin.
Daily patterns of physical activity, sedentary behavior, and prevalent and incident depression—The Maastricht Study
Authors: Gianfredi Vincenza , Schaper Nicolaas C. , Odone Anna , Signorelli Carlo , Amerio Andrea , Eussen Simone J. P. M. , Köhler Sebastian , Savelberg Hans H. C. M. , Stehouwer Coen D. A. , Dagnelie Pieter C. , Henry Ronald M. A. , van der Kallen Carla J. H. , van Greevenbroek Marleen M. J. , Schram Miranda T. , Koster Annemarie
Published: September 2022

This study aims to compare the accelerometer‐measured daily patterns of PA and sedentary behavior among participants with and without prevalent/incident depressive symptoms. We used data from 5582 individuals in The Maastricht Study (59.9 ± 8.6 years, 50.3% women). Daily patterns of sedentary time, light‐intensity physical activity (LiPA), moderate‐to‐vigorous physical activity (MVPA), and sit‐to‐stand transitions were objectively measured at baseline with the activPAL3 activity monitor. Depressive symptoms were assessed using the 9‐item Patient Health Questionnaire, both at baseline and annually (median follow‐up: 5.1 years). General linear models were used to compare patterns of physical activity and sedentary behavior between those with and without prevalent/incident depressive symptoms. Participants with prevalent depressive symptoms had significantly more sedentary time (18.6 min/day) and lower LiPA (26.8 min/day) and MVPA (4.8 min/day) than participants without depressive symptoms. Considering the daily patterns, participants with prevalent depressive symptoms had significantly more sedentary time early in the afternoon (12:00–18:00), early evening (18:00–21:00), and during the night (00:00–03:00), less time in LiPA in all periods between 09:00–21.00 and less MVPA in the morning (09:00:12:00), early afternoon (12:00–15:00), and evening (18:00–21:00), than those without. Similar differences in activity and sedentary behavior patterns between those and without incident depressive symptoms were observed albeit the differences were smaller. Overall, we did not find specific time slots particularly associated with both prevalent and incident depressive symptoms. These findings may indicate that less sedentary time and more intense PA can be important targets for the prevention of depression irrespective of the timing of the day.
Resistance training volume does not influence lean mass preservation during energy restriction in trained males
Authors: Roth Christian , Schwiete Carsten , Happ Kevin , Rettenmaier Lukas , Schoenfeld Brad J. , Behringer Michael
Published: September 2022

This study investigated the effects of a relatively high‐ versus moderate‐volume resistance training program on changes in lean mass during caloric restriction. Thirty‐eight resistance‐trained males were randomized to perform either a high‐volume (HVG; 5 sets/exercise) or a moderate‐volume (MVG; 3 sets/exercise) resistance training program. Both groups were supervised during lower body training. Participants consumed 30 kcal/kg for 6 weeks after 1 week of weight maintenance (45 kcal/kg), with protein intake fixed at 2.8 g/kg fat‐free mass. Muscle thickness of the m. rectus femoris, body composition, contractile properties, stiffness, mood, and sleep status were assessed at pre‐, mid‐, and post‐study. No significant group × time interaction was observed for muscle thickness of the m. rectus femoris at 50% (∆ [post‐pre] 0.36 ± 0.93 mm vs. ∆ −0.01 ± 1.59 mm; p = 0.226) and 75% length (∆ −0.32 ± 1.12 mm vs. ∆ 0.08 ± 1.14 mm; p = 0.151), contractility, sleep, and mood in the HVG and MVG, respectively. Body mass (HVG: ∆ −1.69 ± 1.12 kg vs. MVG: ∆ −1.76 ± 1.76 kg) and lean mass (∆ −0.51 ± 2.30 kg vs. ∆ −0.92 ± 1.59 kg) decreased significantly in both groups (p = 0.022), with no between‐group difference detected (p = 0.966). High‐volume resistance training appears to have neither an advantage nor disadvantage over moderate‐volume resistance training in terms of maintaining lean mass or muscle thickness. Given that both groups increased volume load and maintained muscle contractility, sleep quality, and mood, either moderate or higher training volumes conceivably can be employed by resistance‐trained individuals to preserve muscle during periods of moderate caloric restriction.
A novel HLA‐C*07 allele, HLA‐C*07:1024, was identified in a Chinese individual
Authors: Zhu Yu‐Li , Jiao Shu‐Xian , Chen Peng , Pang Shu‐Tao
Published: September 2022

One nucleotide replacement at nucleotide 397 of HLA‐C*07:02:01:01 results in a new allele, HLA‐C*07:1024.
Characterization of the novel HLA‐DQB1*05:277 allele, detected in two unrelated bone marrow donors
Authors: Ananeva Anastasiia , Gulnaz Akhmetshina , Shagimardanova Elena
Published: September 2022

HLA‐DQB1*05:277 has one non‐synonymous nucleotide change from DQB1*05:01:01:03 at codon 224.
Oral ketone monoester supplementation does not accelerate recovery of muscle force or modulate circulating cytokine concentrations after muscle‐damaging eccentric exercise in healthy males and females
Authors: Jameson Tom S. O. , Islam Hashim , Wall Benjamin T. , Little Jonathan P. , Stephens Francis B.
Published: September 2022

New Findings

What is the central question of this study?

Does acute ketone monoester supplementation enhance the recovery of muscle force and modulate circulating cytokine concentrations after muscle‐damaging eccentric exercise?

What is the main finding and its importance?

Ketone monoester supplementation increased plasma β‐hydroxybutyrate concentrations but did not attenuate the reduction in muscle force or the increase in plasma inflammatory cytokine concentrations that occurred after eccentric exercise. Notably we report novel data demonstrating a reduction in plasma TRAIL concentrations after eccentric exercise, highlighting TRAIL signalling as a possibly novel regulator of muscle recovery.

Muscle‐damaging eccentric exercise is associated with inflammation and impaired muscle force. β‐Hydroxybutyrate (β‐OHB) reduces muscle protein breakdown during inflammation but whether oral ketone monoester supplementation accelerates recovery of muscle force after eccentric exercise is unknown. Sixteen healthy males and females consumed thrice daily ketone monoester (27 g per dose; n = 8; six females; KES) or isocaloric maltodextrin placebo (n = 8; four females; PLA) drinks (randomized, double‐blind, parallel group design) for 3 days beginning immediately after 300 unilateral eccentric quadriceps contractions during complete eucaloric dietary control (1.2 ± 0.1 g/kg BM/day standardized protein). Bilateral muscle force measurements and venous blood sampling were performed before and 3, 6, 24, 48 and 72 h after eccentric exercise. Plasma β‐OHB concentrations were greater in KES compared with PLA at 3 h (0.56 ± 0.13 vs. 0.22 ± 0.04 mM, respectively; P = 0.080) and 6 h (0.65 ± 0.41 vs. 0.23 ± 0.02 mM, respectively; P = 0.031) post‐eccentric exercise. Relative to the control leg, isokinetic work (by 20 ± 21% in PLA and 21 ± 19% in KES; P = 0.008) and isometric torque (by 23 ± 13% in PLA and 20 ± 18% in KES; P < 0.001) decreased from baseline at 3 h in the eccentrically exercised leg, and remained below baseline at 48 and 72 h, with no significant group differences. Of eight measured plasma cytokines, interleukin‐6 (P = 0.008) and monocyte chemoattractant protein‐1 (P = 0.024) concentrations increased after 6 h, whereas tumour necrosis factor‐related apoptosis‐inducing ligand concentrations decreased after 3 h (P = 0.022) and 6 h (P = 0.011) post‐exercise with no significant group differences. Oral ketone monoester supplementation elevates plasma β‐OHB concentrations but does not prevent the decline in muscle force or alter plasma inflammatory cytokine profiles induced by eccentric exercise.
A single breath of nitric oxide does not alter pulmonary perfusion pressure
Authors: Brotto Andrew R. , Beaudry Rhys , Rowland Samira , van Diepen Sean , Stickland Michael K.
Published: September 2022

New Findings

What is the central question of this study?

Is the amount of inhaled nitric oxide (NO) used during a diffusing capacity for inhaled NO manoeuvre sufficient to reduce pulmonary artery systolic pressure (PASP)?

What is the main finding and its importance?

These findings suggest that a single breath of inhaled NO does not change PASP, and combined with previous correlational work, further validates the use of the diffusing capacity for NO manoeuvre as a technique to determine pulmonary capillary blood volume and membrane diffusing capacity.

The measurement of diffusing capacity is an important pulmonary function test to evaluate gas exchange. Using both carbon monoxide and nitric oxide (NO), the diffusing capacity for nitric oxide (DL,NO) technique allows for the partitioning of capillary blood volume and membrane diffusing capacity. However, inhaled NO is known to dilate pulmonary arterioles in both health and disease and therefore could alter the outcomes that the DL,NO technique aims to quantify. The purpose of the study was to determine if a DL,NO manoeuvre alters pulmonary perfusion pressure. Nine participants completed 12 simulated 10‐s breath‐hold DL,NO manoeuvres (n = 6 placebo inhalations and n = 6 with 40 ppm NO; order randomized) during which tricuspid regurgitant jet velocity was recorded continuously using Doppler ultrasound to estimate pulmonary artery systolic pressure (PASP) as a surrogate for pulmonary perfusion pressure. The PASP was not different between the placebo and NO conditions (P = 0.742). These data indicate that a single DL,NO manoeuvre does not alter PASP and therefore would not be expected to acutely alter pulmonary capillary blood volume or membrane diffusing capacity.
Drugs, clocks and exercise in ageing: hype and hope, fact and fiction
Authors: Furrer Regula , Handschin Christoph
Published: September 2022

Ageing is a biological process that is linked to a functional decline, ultimately resulting in death. Large interindividual differences exist in terms of life‐ and healthspan, representing life expectancy and the number of years spent in the absence of major diseases, respectively. The genetic and molecular mechanisms that are involved in the regulation of the ageing process, and those that render age the main risk factor for many diseases are still poorly understood. Nevertheless, a growing number of compounds have been put forward to affect this process. However, for scientists and laypeople alike, it is difficult to separate fact from fiction, and hype from hope. In this review, we discuss the currently pursued pharmacological anti‐ageing approaches. These are compared to non‐pharmacological interventions, some of which confer powerful effects on health and well‐being, in particular an active lifestyle and exercise. Moreover, functional parameters and biological clocks as well as other molecular marks are compared in terms of predictive power of morbidity and mortality. Then, conceptual aspects and roadblocks in the development of anti‐ageing drugs are outlined. Finally, an overview on current and future strategies to mitigate age‐related pathologies and the extension of life‐ and healthspan is provided.

image
Mechanisms of spontaneous Ca2+ release‐mediated arrhythmia in a novel 3D human atrial myocyte model: II. Ca2+‐handling protein variation
Authors: Zhang Xianwei , Smith Charlotte E. R. , Morotti Stefano , Edwards Andrew G. , Sato Daisuke , Louch William E. , Ni Haibo , Grandi Eleonora
Published: September 2022

Disruption of the transverse‐axial tubule system (TATS) in diseases such as heart failure and atrial fibrillation occurs in combination with changes in the expression and distribution of key Ca2+‐handling proteins. Together this ultrastructural and ionic remodelling is associated with aberrant Ca2+ cycling and electrophysiological instabilities that underlie arrhythmic activity. However, due to the concurrent changes in TATs and Ca2+‐handling protein expression and localization that occur in disease it is difficult to distinguish their individual contributions to the arrhythmogenic state. To investigate this, we applied our novel 3D human atrial myocyte model with spatially detailed Ca2+ diffusion and TATS to investigate the isolated and interactive effects of changes in expression and localization of key Ca2+‐handling proteins and variable TATS density on Ca2+‐handling abnormality driven membrane instabilities. We show that modulating the expression and distribution of the sodium–calcium exchanger, ryanodine receptors and the sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) Ca2+ buffer calsequestrin have varying pro‐ and anti‐arrhythmic effects depending on the balance of opposing influences on SR Ca2+ leak–load and Ca2+–voltage relationships. Interestingly, the impact of protein remodelling on Ca2+‐driven proarrhythmic behaviour varied dramatically depending on TATS density, with intermediately tubulated cells being more severely affected compared to detubulated and densely tubulated myocytes. This work provides novel mechanistic insight into the distinct and interactive consequences of TATS and Ca2+‐handling protein remodelling that underlies dysfunctional Ca2+ cycling and electrophysiological instability in disease.

image

Key points

In our companion paper we developed a 3D human atrial myocyte model, coupling electrophysiology and Ca2+ handling with subcellular spatial details governed by the transverse‐axial tubule system (TATS).

Here we utilize this model to mechanistically examine the impact of TATS loss and changes in the expression and distribution of key Ca2+‐handling proteins known to be remodelled in disease on Ca2+ homeostasis and electrophysiological stability.

We demonstrate that varying the expression and localization of these proteins has variable pro‐ and anti‐arrhythmic effects with outcomes displaying dependence on TATS density.

Whereas detubulated myocytes typically appear unaffected and densely tubulated cells seem protected, the arrhythmogenic effects of Ca2+ handling protein remodelling are profound in intermediately tubulated cells.

Our work shows the interaction between TATS and Ca2+‐handling protein remodelling that underlies the Ca2+‐driven proarrhythmic behaviour observed in atrial fibrillation and may help to predict the effects of antiarrhythmic strategies at varying stages of ultrastructural remodelling.
Hysteresis and Bi-Stability in Transversely Excited Swirling Flows
Authors: Gupta Ravi , Gohiya Rajat , Vempati Chandan , Hemchandra Santosh , Panda Pratikash
Published: September 2022

We investigate the effect of transverse acoustic excitation on non-reacting swirling jets. The work is motivated by the azimuthal instabilities in annular gas turbine combustor which are one of the major challenges in aero-engines. We have designed and fabricated a multi-nozzle linear array combustor to simulate the flow conditions of an annular combustor. The nozzle features a dual co-rotating radial swirler configuration. Two compression drivers placed on either side of the combustion chamber are used to generate acoustic fields in the direction transverse to the flow. Simultaneous 2D PIV and high-frequency pressure measurements are conducted to measure the time-averaged velocity field and the chamber acoustics, respectively. It is observed that once the swirling jet is excited with a transverse acoustic forcing, it instantaneously transitions to a wall-jet state. In wall-jet state, the flow moves radially outwards and remains attached to the walls on either side of the nozzle, and is characterised by a recirculation zone with a strong negative axial velocity. In our experiments we demonstrate that transverse acoustic excitation can lead to a bistable state in swirling flows. We investigated the acoustic response to low-amplitude forcing on the combustion chamber by performing a forced acoustic response analysis using COMSOL. It is observed that acoustic forcing leads to a peak response of the radial and azimuthal velocities at the flare of the swirler, which could induce an axisymmetric deflection of the jet shear layer pushing it into a wall-jet state.
Multifield Modeling and Simulation of Nutrient Transport in Mechanically Stressed Meniscus Tissue
Authors: Langner Eric , Ehrenhofer Adrian , Wallmersperger Thomas
Published: September 2022

Insights into the transport mechanisms of nutrients are essential for understanding the pathophysiology of menisci. In the present work, we focus on the modeling and numerical simulation of the transport of glucose molecules in mechanically stressed meniscus tissue. Therefore, a multifield model based on the theory of porous media is created. Due to a biphasic approach, the major phases of the solid and the fluid are represented. The description of the transport processes of the uncharged nutrient molecules, such as convection and diffusion, is given by three coupled partial differential equations valid for large deformations. Numerical simulations are performed for everyday types of stress such as (I) lying, (II) two-legged stance, (III) one-legged stance, (IV) level walking, and (V) stair descending using the finite element method. The results show that diffusion is the dominant process. However, in parts of the meniscus, the delivery of glucose can be improved by convection due to mechanical loading. Based on these basic insights, the model can now be adapted to individual patient's meniscus geometries. The model can thus give insights into the suitability of loading scenarios for rehabilitation after meniscus damage.
Recent Progress in Flow Control and Heat Transfer Enhancement of Impinging Sweeping Jets Using Double Feedback Fluidic Oscillators: A Review
Authors: Hussain Liaqat , Khan Muhammad Mahabat
Published: September 2022

Jet impingement finds an important role in several industrial applications which require high thermal-hydraulic performance of heat exchange systems. The self-exciting sweeping jets produced by fluidic oscillators provide superior thermal and hydraulic performance as compared to plain jets. The fluidic oscillator increases the jet impingement area on the target surface by maintaining a steady and controlled oscillatory flow. The continuous advancements in the design improvement of fluidic oscillators have led to further enhancements of heat and fluid flow characteristics. In this context, double feedback fluidic oscillators have shown promising jet flow control features and jet impingement cooling characteristics. Therefore, the current study has been devoted to analyzing and assessing the recent research progress in design improvements of double feedback fluid oscillators and the augmentation of thermal-hydraulic characteristics of impinging sweeping. Moreover, the variations in the heat transfer and hydraulic performance of impinging jets for different shapes of target surfaces have been comprehensively examined. In the end, research gaps for future work have been highlighted.
Stability Analysis of Binary Casson Nanofluid Convection With Viscosity and Conductivity Variations Using Darcy–Brinkman Model
Authors: Devi Mamta , Gupta Urvashi
Published: September 2022

The onset of binary/double-diffusive convection with conductivity and viscosity variations has been investigated for Casson nanofluids using Darcy–Brinkman model. Nanoparticle conductivity and viscosity are used as linear functions of volume fraction. The normal mode approach, linearized stability theory, and one-term Galerkin method are used to obtain the expressions of Darcy–Rayleigh number for stationary and oscillatory convection. Different base-fluids (water, blood, honey) for different porous phases (glass, limestone, sand) have been examined numerically using the software mathematica (version 12.0). When Darcy parameter, conductivity, and viscosity variation parameters are combined, the layer's stability is significantly enhanced. The top-heavy layer of fluid instability state is shown to be dominated by stationary mode. It is observed that non-Newtonian Casson parameter and solute Lewis number destabilize the system while porosity parameter, Darcy number, and solute Rayleigh number postpone the same. Interestingly, thermal capacity ratio, conductivity, and viscosity parameters have stabilizing effects. A comparison of stability patterns of Newtonian and non-Newtonian nanofluids is carried out numerically by taking different base fluids like water (Newtonian fluid), blood, and honey (non-Newtonian Casson fluids). The system is found to be more stable for non-Newtonian fluids. It is observed that conductivity variation pattern for different porous media is: glass < limestone < sand for all the base fluids. As far as base fluids are concerned, they follow the conductivity pattern as water < honey < blood for different porous phases.