bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Extraradical hyphae exhibit more plastic nutrient‐acquisition strategies than roots under nitrogen enrichment in ectomycorrhiza‐dominated forests
Authors: Zhu Xiaomin , Lambers Hans , Guo Wanji , Chen Dongdong , Liu Zhanfeng , Zhang Ziliang , Yin Huajun
Published: June 2023

Ectomycorrhizal (ECM) functional traits related to nutrient acquisition are impacted by nitrogen (N) deposition. However, less is known about whether these nutrient‐acquisition traits associated with roots and hyphae differentially respond to increased N deposition in ECM‐dominated forests with different initial N status. We conducted a chronic N addition experiment (25 kg N ha−1 year−1) in two ECM‐dominated forests with contrasting initial N status, that is, a Pinus armandii forest (with relatively low N availability) and a Picea asperata forest (with relatively high N availability), to assess nutrient‐mining and nutrient‐foraging strategies associated with roots and hyphae under N addition. We show that nutrient‐acquisition strategies of roots and hyphae differently respond to increased N addition. Root nutrient‐acquisition strategies showed a consistent response to N addition, regardless of initial forest nutrient status, shifting from organic N mining toward inorganic N foraging. In contrast, the hyphal nutrient‐acquisition strategy showed diverse responses to N addition depending on initial forest N status. In the Pinus armandii forest, trees increased belowground carbon (C) allocation to ECM fungi thus enhancing hyphal N‐mining capacity under increased N availability. By comparison, in the Picea asperata forest, ECM fungi enhanced both capacities of P foraging and P mining in response to N‐induced P limitation. In conclusion, our results demonstrate that ECM fungal hyphae exhibit greater plasticity in nutrient‐mining and nutrient‐foraging strategies than roots do in response to changes of nutrient status induced by N deposition. This study highlights the importance of ECM associations in tree acclimation and forest function stability under changing environments.
HRQoL and psychosocial aspects of burden on caregivers to children with moderate or severe von Willebrand disease
Authors: Olsson Anna , Petrini Pia , Engman Grahn Emma , Myrin Westesson Linda
Published: June 2023

Introduction

Von Willebrand disease (VWD) is the most widespread congenital bleeding disorder. Caregivers are highly involved in its treatment, and from the time of the child's bleeding diagnosis, they face new demands such as recognition of bleeds and treatment options.

Aim

The aim of this study was to assess Health related quality of life (HRQoL) in caregivers of children with moderate and severe VWD in Sweden, and to describe the impact of psychosocial aspects on the burden.

Methods

A multicentre, cross‐sectional study. The Short Form 36 Health Survey (SF‐36) was used to assess HRQoL. Caregiver burden was measured using The HEMOphilia associated Caregiver Burden scale (HEMOCAB). Children´s clinical data were collected from the Swedish national registry for bleeding disorders.

Results

Seventy caregivers of children with moderate or severe VWD were included. Caregivers of children with moderate VWD scored significantly lower in the mental health domains on SF‐36, compared to matched normative data. Psychosocial aspects that significantly impacted the caregiver burden negatively measured by HEMOCAB total score were: if the caregiver reported that VWD affected their life in general (p = .001), if the child was absent from preschool/school ≥2 day/12 months due to VWD (p = .002) or that VWD had a financial impact on the family (p = .001).

Conclusion

This study contributes to knowledge about caregivers’ HRQoL and highlights the situation of caregivers of children with moderate VWD. Furthermore, the caregiver burden was negatively affected by psychosocial aspects. Clinical follow‐ups should include assessment of psychosocial aspects to identify caregivers that are at risk of high burden.
A rocky road but worth the drive: A longitudinal qualitative study of patient innovators and researchers cocreating research
Authors: Wannheden Carolina , Riggare Sara , Luckhaus Jamie L. , Jansson Hanna , Sjunnestrand My , Stenfors Terese , Savage Carl , Reinius Maria , Hasson Henna
Published: June 2023

Background

Partnership research practices involving various stakeholder groups are gaining ground. Yet, the research community is still exploring how to effectively coproduce research together. This study describes (a) key programme developments in the creation of a 6‐year partnership research programme in Sweden, and (b) explores the hopes, expectations, and experiences of patient innovators (i.e., individuals with lived experience as patients or caregivers who drive health innovations) and researchers involved in the programme during the first years.

Methods

We conducted a prospective longitudinal qualitative study spanning the first 2 years of the programme. Data consisted of meeting protocols and interviews with 14 researchers and 6 patient innovators; 39 interviews were carried out in three evenly‐spaced rounds. We identified significant events and discussion themes in the meeting protocols and analyzed the interviews using thematic analysis, applying a cross‐sectional recurrent approach to track changes over time.

Findings

Meeting protocols revealed how several partnership practices (e.g., programme management team, task forces, role description document) were cocreated, supporting the sharing of power and responsibilities among programme members. Based on the analysis of interviews, we created three themes: (1) paving the path to a better tomorrow, reflecting programme members' high expectations; (2) going on a road trip together, reflecting experiences of finding new roles and learning how to cocreate; (3) finding the tempo: from talking to doing, reflecting experiences of managing challenges and becoming productive as a team.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that sharing, respecting, and acknowledging each other's experiences and concerns helps build mutual trust and shape partnership practices. High expectations beyond research productivity suggest that we need to consider outcomes at different levels, from the individual to society, when evaluating the impact of partnership research.

Patient or Public Contribution

The research team included members with formal experiences as researchers and members with lived experiences of being a patient or informal caregiver. One patient innovator coauthored this paper and contributed to all aspects of the research, including the design of the study; production of data (as interviewee); interpretation of findings; and drafting the manuscript.
Simultaneous enhancement of dielectric properties and temperature stability in BaTiO3‐based ceramics enabling X8R multilayer ceramic capacitor
Authors: Xiao Yizhou , Yang Yuanbo , Yang Shuai , Li Jinglei , Liu Dan , Wu Jie , Wang Mingwen , Li Chunchun , Li Fei
Published: June 2023

Modified BaTiO3 ceramics that possess high dielectric permittivity and acceptable temperature stability have been widely utilized as multilayer ceramic capacitors (MLCCs) for high‐frequency bypass and power filtering in automotive applications. However, since the increasing demand for high‐capacity and small‐size, high‐permittivity materials that can serve as dielectric layers in MLCCs are urgently required. In this work, we design and fabricate a special BaTiO3‐0.03Mg‐0.02Y‐0.02CaZrO3 ceramic with a high dielectric permittivity of 3000 and the dielectric variation below ±13% in the temperature range of ‐55–150°C, fulfilling the requirements of X8R capacitors. To achieve these results, we employed grain size engineering and cation doping, using BaTiO3 precursors with a particle size of 240 nm to prepare the BaTiO3‐based ceramics with fine grains, while Mg and Y co‐doping was used for improving the temperature stability due to dielectric dispersion. Utilizing these high‐permittivity BaTiO3‐based materials, we fabricated MLCCs that satisfy the X8R criterion, possessing a high dielectric constant of 2950 and a high breakdown field (410 kV/cm).
Location choice with asymmetric data in the Hotelling model
Authors: Liu Shuaicheng
Published: June 2023

This paper analyzes the location choices of firms in the Hotelling model, in which one firm has consumer data and can practice price discrimination, while the other firm without data can only set uniform price. The equilibrium results show medium differentiation. The location choices of firms can alleviate the inhibition of data asymmetry on competition and increase consumer surplus. And we consider the consumers' transportation costs as an exponential function of distance. When this exponent increases, horizontal differentiation increases, but market prices fall, benefiting consumers.
Outcomes of de‐prescribing proton pump inhibitors during acute admissions in a general medical unit: a pilot study
Authors: Luc Michael T. K. , Adi‐Pranoto Edward , Lau David , Anpalahan Mahesan
Published: June 2023

The study describes the feasibility and short‐to‐medium‐term efficacy of an evidence‐based proton pump inhibitor (PPI) de‐prescribing initiative undertaken as part of routine clinical care during acute admissions in a general medical unit. Of the 44 (median (IQR) age 75.5 (13.75) years; females 25 (57%)) who participated in the study, de‐prescription was maintained in 29 (66%) and 27 (61%) patients at 12 and 26 weeks respectively.
Trailing the heat: Eurasian tealAnas creccaschedule their spring migration basing on the increase in soil temperatures along the route
Authors: Cerritelli Giulia , Vanni Lorenzo , Baldaccini Natale Emilio , Lenzoni Alfonso , Sorrenti Michele , Giunchi Dimitri
Published: June 2023

Migratory behaviour allows individuals to inhabit areas with optimal environmental conditions throughout the year. To reduce energy expenditure and the risk of mortality while migrating, birds may schedule their departures basing on environmental cues that provide seasonal and/or local information. In this study, we aimed to identify the possible effect of environmental factors on the spring migration of 30 Eurasian tealAnas creccatracked between 2014 and 2018 from Italian wintering areas. We used Cox proportional hazard and generalized estimating equation models to evaluate the environmental cues that affect teal's decision to start migratory movements from the wintering grounds and continue migration from stopover sites. Apart from the anticipated effect of photoperiod, the onset of spring migration was not substantially influenced by environmental variables, whereas the speed of migration seemed to be influenced by both seasonal (increased ground temperature, an indicator of spring advancement) and local (low cloud cover and northward blowing winds, which support migratory flight) environmental cues. The slow migration observed in teal may favour a strategy in which migratory timing is modulated mainly by the conditions encountered during the journey rather than at the start of the migration. This suggested low impact of local environmental variables on the onset of spring migration could have important consequences both for the management of this species for hunting purposes and for the way the species might respond to the ongoing climatic change.
Radiofrequency versus cryoballoon catheter ablation in patients with persistent atrial fibrillation: A randomized trial
Authors: Mililis Panagiotis , Kariki Ourania , Saplaouras Athanasios , Bazoukis George , Dragasis Stylianos , Patsiotis Ilias G. , Batsouli Athena , Vlachos Konstantinos , Letsas Konstantinos P. , Efremidis Michael
Published: June 2023

Introduction

Patients with persistent atrial fibrillation (AF) represent a challenging population for rhythm control therapies. Catheter ablation (CA) with pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) is an effective treatment option for the reduction of the arrhythmic burden. Data regarding the comparability between radiofrequency (RF) and cryoballoon ablation (CRYO) in persistent AF are limited.

Methods

This is a prospective, randomized, single‐center study designed to compare the efficacy in terms of rhythm control between RF and CRYO in persistent AF. Eligible participants were randomized 2:1 in two arms: RF and CRYO. The primary endpoint of the study was arrhythmia relapse in the early postprocedural period (first 3 months) and in the middle term follow‐up (3 months to 12 months). Secondary endpoints included procedure duration, fluoroscopy time, and complications.

Results

A total of 199 patients participated in the study (133 patients in the RF arm, 66 in the CRYO arm). No statistically significant difference occurred between the two groups regarding the primary endpoint (recurrences ≤3 months: 35.5% RF vs. 37.9% CRYO, p .755, recurrences >3 months: 26.3% RF vs. 27.3% CRYO, p .999). From the secondary endpoints, CRYO was a procedure of significantly shorter duration (75.15 ± 17.21 in CRYO vs. 136.6 ± 43.33 in RF group, p < .05).

Conclusion

CRYO and RF ablation appear to be equally effective for rhythm control in patients with persistent AF. CRYO ablation is advantageous in terms of procedure duration.
Clinical benefits of systemic amoxicillin/metronidazole may depend on periodontitis stage and grade: An exploratory sub‐analysis of the ABPARO trial
Authors: Eickholz Peter , Koch Raphael , Göde Moritz , Nickles Katrin , Kocher Thomas , Lorenz Katrin , Kim Ti‐Sun , Meyle Jörg , Kaner Doğan , Schlagenhauf Ulrich , Harks Inga , Ehmke Benjamin
Published: June 2023

Aim

Assessment of treatment response after systemic amoxicillin/metronidazole adjunctive to subgingival instrumentation (SI) according to stages and grades of the 2018 classification of periodontal diseases.

Materials and Methods

We carried out exploratory re‐analysis of the placebo‐controlled, multi‐centre ABPARO trial (52; 45/60 years of age; 205 males, 114 active smokers). Patients were randomized to SI with systemic amoxicillin 500 mg/metronidazole 400 mg (three times a day for 7 days, n = 205; ANTI) or placebo (n = 200; PLAC) and maintenance therapy every 3 months. Patients were reclassified according to the 2018 classification (stage/extent/grade). Treatment effect was the percentage of sites per patient with new attachment loss ≥1.3 mm (PSAL ≥ 1.3 mm) at 27.5 months post‐baseline/randomization.

Results

All patients were assigned according to the stage (n = 49 localized stage III, n = 206 generalized stage III, n = 150 stage IV). Because of missing radiographs, only 222 patients were assigned to grades (n = 73 B, n = 149 C). Treatment (PLAC/ANTI) resulted in PSAL ≥ 1.3 mm (median; lower/upper quartile) in localized stage III (PLAC: 5.7; 3.3/8.4% vs. ANTI: 4.9; 3.0/8.3%; p = .749), generalized stage III (8.0; 4.5/14.3% vs. 4.7; 2.4/9.0%; p < .001), stage IV (8.5; 5.1/14.4% vs. 5.7; 3.3/10.6%; p = .008), grade B (4.4; 2.4/6.7% vs. 3.6; 1.9/4.7%; p = .151) and grade C (9.4; 5.3/14.3% vs. 4.8; 2.5/9.4%; p < .001).

Conclusions

In generalized periodontitis stage III/grade C, a clinically relevant lower percentage of disease progression after adjunctive systemic amoxicillin/metronidazole was observed compared to placebo (PLAC: 9.7; 5.8/14.3% vs. ANTI: 4.7; 2.4/9.0%; p < .001).
Techniques for in vivo serotonin detection in the brain: State of the art
Authors: Zhao Shuchang , Piatkevich Kiryl D.
Published: June 2023

Neuronal circuits in the brain that utilize the neurotransmitter serotonin are essential to the regulation of mood and emotional expression. Disruptions in serotonin signaling underlie neuropsychiatric conditions such as depression and anxiety. However, the cellular mechanisms that regulate serotonergic signaling in the brain in healthy and diseased states remain to be better understood. In particular, as more is learned about serotonin in the brain, we recognize an urgent need to develop techniques capable of mapping its complex spatiotemporal dynamics in awake, behaving animals. Notably, analytical methods to detect serotonin in situ, including tomography, are widely used but still recognized as limited in terms of their spatiotemporal resolution, their methodological caveats, and their technical limitations when cross‐referenced with behavioral studies. To overcome such limitations, genetically encoded serotonin indicators were developed, leading to the introduction of novel imaging modalities that enable researchers to achieve remarkable spatiotemporal resolution in the study of serotonergic circuits in preclinical models of neuropsychiatric disorders. These novel approaches, while remarkably powerful, are also not without limitations. Here, we review the current techniques for detecting and quantifying serotonin in vivo within the brain and discuss how novel approaches such as genetically encoded serotonin indicators will lead to new insights into the roles of serotonergic circuits in health and disease.

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Impact of chemogenetic activation of dorsal vagal complex astrocytes in mice on adaptive glucoregulatory responses
Authors: MacDonald Alastair J. , Pye Katherine R. , Beall Craig , Ellacott Kate L. J.
Published: June 2023

The dorsal vagal complex (DVC) regulates diverse aspects of physiology including food intake and blood glucose homeostasis. Astrocytes play an active role in regulating DVC function and, by extension, physiological parameters. DVC astrocytes in ex vivo slices respond to low tissue glucose. The response of neurons to low glucose is conditional on intact astrocyte signalling in slice preparations, suggesting astrocytes are primary sensors of glucose deprivation (glucoprivation). Based on these published findings we hypothesised that in vivo DVC astrocyte manipulation with chemogenetics would be sufficient to alter physiological responses that control blood glucose. We found that 2‐h after systemic 2‐DG‐induced glucoprivation there were no observable changes in morphology of glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP)‐immunoreactive DVC cells, specifically those in the nucleus of the solitary tract (NTS). Chemogenetic activation of DVC astrocytes was sufficient to suppress nocturnal food intake by reducing both meal size and meal number and this manipulation also suppressed 2‐DG‐induced glucoprivic food intake. Chemogenetic activation of DVC astrocytes did not increase basal blood glucose nor protect against insulin‐induced hypoglycaemia. In male mice, chemogenetic DVC astrocyte activation did not alter glucose tolerance. In female mice, the initial glucose excursion was reduced in a glucose tolerance test, suggesting enhanced glucose absorption. Based on our data and published work, we propose that DVC astrocytes may play an indispensable homeostatic role, that is, are necessary to maintain the function of glucoregulatory neuronal circuitry, but alone their bulk activation is not sufficient to result in adaptive glucoregulatory responses. It is possible that there are state‐dependent effects and/or DVC astrocyte subsets that have this specialised role, but this was unresolvable using the experimental approaches employed here.
What are the key factors influencing newly graduated nurses' preference for choosing their workplace? A best–worst scaling approach
Authors: Min Ari , Baek Wonhee , Choi Sungkyoung
Published: June 2023

Introduction

The literature cites many factors that influence a nurse's decision when choosing their workplace. However, it is unclear which attributes matter the most to newly graduated nurses. The study aimed to identify the relative importance of workplace preference attributes among newly graduated nurses.

Design

A cross‐sectional study.

Methods

We conducted an online survey and data were collected in June 2022. A total of 1111 newly graduated nurses in South Korea participated. The study employed best–worst scaling to quantify the relative importance of nine workplace preferences and also included questions about participants' willingness to pay for each workplace preferences. The relationships between the relative importance of the workplace attribute and the willingness to pay were determined using a quadrant analysis.

Results

The order according to the relative importance of workplace preferences is as follows: salary, working conditions, organizational climate, welfare program, hospital location, hospital level, hospital reputation, professional development, and the chance of promotion. The most important factor, salary, was 16.67 times more important than the least important factor, the chance of promotion, in terms of choosing workplace. In addition, working conditions and organizational climate were recognized as high economic value indicators.

Conclusion

Newly graduated nurses nominated better salaries, working conditions, and organizational climate as having a more important role in choosing their workplace.

Clinical Relevance

The findings of this study have important implications for institutions and administrators in recruiting and retaining newly graduated nurses.
Adaptation in work and family roles link support to mental health during a pandemic
Authors: Pichler Shaun , Casper Wendy J. , Fletcher Luke , Babu Nishat
Published: June 2023

We address a key unresolved issue in the social support literature—how social support relates to psychological health—by examining behavioural adaptation as a mechanism through which support from work and family domains, during the COVID‐19 pandemic, impacts psychological health. Given support may not equally benefit all, we consider individual differences in demographics as moderators in the relationships between support, adaptation and health outcomes. We examine both within‐domain and cross‐domain effects of support on adaptation using a sample of 392 employees who responded to two surveys, 3 weeks apart, shortly after the COVID‐19 lockdown. Consistent with expectations, adaptation both within and across domains mediated the relationships between social support and psychological health. Moreover, the family support–family adaptation and family adaptation–psychological health relationships were stronger among participants without a cohabiting partner. Our findings highlight the important role social support and adaptation play in maintaining well‐being during crisis events, particularly for persons without cohabiting partners. Our results suggest that workers can protect their psychological health during a crisis event to the extent they engage in behavioural adaptation and, thus, organizations should consider adopting interventions that promote behavioural adaptation, such as micro‐interventions focused on stress reappraisal.
Nitrogen‐fixing cushion Astragalus siculus modulates soil fertility, microclimate, plant facilitation, bacterial and fungal microbiota along an elevation gradient
Authors: Bonanomi Giuliano , Idbella Mohamed , Stinca Adriano , Maisto Giulia , De Marco Anna , Giusso Del Galdo Gian Pietro , Guarino Riccardo , Zotti Maurizio
Published: June 2023

Question

Cushion‐forming vascular plants are adapted to alpine environments and act as ecosystem engineers by moderating microclimate and creating a fertility island under their canopy. Most of the available studies on cushion ecology have been devoted to plant facilitation, but none used a holistic approach that considers the response of co‐existing plant species with other key ecosystem players. Here, we quantified the biogenic effect and facilitation capacity of Astragalus siculus, a spiny nitrogen‐fixing cushion plant, and test the hypothesis that the facilitation effect would increase with elevation as stress gradient.

Location

Mount Etna, the highest active volcano in the Mediterranean Basin.

Methods

We combined chemical characterization of the soil with a description of the soil microbiota by high‐throughput sequencing of bacterial and eukaryotic rRNA gene markers carried out at three elevations, that is 1650, 1900 and 2210 m a.s.l. In addition, we analysed the microclimate outside and inside the Astragalus canopy to assess the linkages between above‐ and below‐ground ecosystem compartments and quantified the occurrence of co‐existing vascular plants.

Results

Astragalus cushions have strong biogenic effects on above‐ and below‐ground conditions by dramatically increasing soil organic carbon and total nitrogen stocks at 1900 and 2210 m elevation. Moreover, a buffering of soil temperature and moisture regimes was recorded, with lower temperatures in summer but higher in winter inside the cushions. Cushions harbour a specific bacterial and fungal microbiota compared to external bare soil. Stem density and cushion height increase significantly with altitude, as does the nurse effect of the cushion on the growth and survival of co‐existing vascular plants.

Conclusions

As a result of cushion biogenic environmental changes, the effect of Astragalus on some of the co‐existing species shifted from negative or null at 1650 m to facilitative along the elevation gradient. Furthermore, our data show a relationship between Astragalus morphological traits and soil biogenic changes related to soil chemistry and microbiota that affect plant interaction and coexistence.
The power of observation: Eugen Warming (1918) Om Jordudløbere (‘Underground runners') and the ecology and evolution of clonal plants
Authors: Eriksson Ove
Published: June 2023

Although often overlooked, the Danish botanist Eugen Warming was one the founders of ecology as a science. He also wrote extensively on plant life forms, including an essay from 1918, Om Jordudløbere (‘Underground runners'), which specifically focused on clonal plants. As was common among naturalists during the 19th century, Warming was exceptionally skillful in drawing conclusions from plain observation. The present paper examines how Warming understood and interpreted the ecology and evolution of clonal plants, and compares his insights with those emanating during the revival of research on clonal plants from the late 1970s onward. Several of the key topics in this revival were treated already by Warming, particularly clonal plants' ability of mobility by horizontal growth, the features affecting the ‘splitting' of genets into independent ramets, and how clonal life forms evolve. Despite these thematic similarities, Warming's direct impact on later research was limited, with the possible exception of the concept of plant functional types. This does not preclude that Warming's insights have bearing on the current research agenda on the ecology and evolution of clonal plants. The paper ends with a brief discussion of horizontal growth as a means to extend genet lifespan, thereby providing a basis for evolution of clonal plant life form through processes acting within genets.
Arabidopsis thaliana rosette habit is controlled by combined light and energy signaling converging on transcriptional control of the TALE homeobox gene ATH1
Authors: Shokrian Hajibehzad Shahram , Silva Savani S. , Peeters Niels , Stouten Evelien , Buijs Guido , Smeekens Sjef , Proveniers Marcel
Published: June 2023

In the absence of light signals, Arabidopsis plants fail to develop the rosette habit typical for this species. Instead, plants display caulescent growth due to elongation of rosette internodes. This aspect of photomorphogenic development has been paid little attention and molecular events involved, downstream of photoreceptor signaling, remain to be identified.

Using a combination of genetic and molecular approaches, we show that Arabidopsis rosette habit is a photomorphogenic trait controlled by induction of ARABIDOPSIS THALIANA HOMEOBOX GENE1 (ATH1) as downstream target of multiple photoreceptors.

ATH1 induction prevents rosette internode elongation by maintaining the shoot apical meristem (SAM) rib zone area inactive and requires inactivation of photomorphogenesis inhibitors, including PHYTOCHROME INTERACTING FACTOR (PIF) proteins. ATH1 activity results in tissue‐specific inhibition of PIF expression, establishing double‐negative feedback‐regulation at the SAM. Light‐requirement for ATH1 expression can be overcome by high sugar availability to the SAM. Both sugar and light signals that induce ATH1 and, subsequently, rosette habit are mediated by TOR kinase.

Collectively, our data reveal a SAM‐specific, double‐negative ATH1‐PIF feedback loop at the basis of rosette habit. Upstream, TOR kinase functions as central hub integrating light and energy signals that control this for Arabidopsis quintessential trait.
Comparative evaluation of efficacy and safety of calcipotriol versus calcitriol ointment, both in combination with narrow‐band ultraviolet B phototherapy in the treatment of stable plaque psoriasis
Authors: Chakraborty Disha , Aggarwal Kamal
Published: June 2023

Background

Vitamin D analogues and NBUVB are both well‐recognised modes of therapy in the treatment of chronic stable plaque psoriasis. The objective of this open label intraindividual, left right study was to compare two different vitamin D analogues, calcipotriol and calcitriol, in combination with NBUVB phototherapy in psoriasis.

Methods

Thirty patients with stable plaque psoriasis were enrolled for a 12‐week clinical trial. The target lesion on the left side was treated topically with calcitriol ointment, while that on the right side was treated with calcipotriol ointment once daily. The whole body was irradiated with narrow‐band ultraviolet B phototherapy (NBUVB) three times per week. Efficacy was assessed by target plaque scoring.

Results

Both therapies resulted in a statistically significant reduction in erythema, scaling, thickness, and target plaque score, seen as early as 2 weeks into therapy. However, the calcipotriol combination led to an earlier clearance of plaques and a lesser relapse rate than the calcitriol combination. The number of treatment sessions and cumulative NBUVB doses were significantly lower in the calcipotriol‐treated group.

Conclusion

Both vitamin D analogues appear to be safe, effective, and cosmetically acceptable, with calcipotriol being more efficacious, well tolerated, with a rapid onset of action and a better maintenance of response.
Functional identification of PhMATE1 in flower color formation in petunia
Authors: Yuan Junwei , Qiu Zhujun , Long Yu , Liu Yazhi , Huang Jiajun , Liu Juanxu , Yu Yixun
Published: June 2023

Multidrug and toxic compound extrusion (MATE) transporter proteins are a class of secondary transporter proteins that can transport flavonoids. Anthocyanins, a kind of flavonoid, are important secondary metabolites widely found in higher plants; they determine the flower color of most angiosperms. TT12 in Arabidopsis was the first MATE protein identified to be involved in flavonoid transport. Petunia (Petunia hybrida) is an important ornamental plant and is one of the ideal plants for studying plant flower color. However, there are few reports on anthocyanin transport in petunia. In this study, we characterized a homolog of Arabidopsis TT12 in the petunia genome, PhMATE1, that shares the highest amino acid sequence identity with Arabidopsis TT12. PhMATE1 protein contained 11 transmembrane helices. PhMATE1 showed a high transcription level in corollas. The silencing of PhMATE1 mediated by both virus‐induced gene silence and RNA interference changed flower color and reduced anthocyanin content in petunia, suggesting that PhMATE1 is involved in anthocyanin transport in petunia. Furthermore, PhMATE1 silencing downregulated the expression of the structural genes of the anthocyanin synthesis pathway. The results of this study supported the hypothesis that MATEs are involved in the sequestration of anthocyanins during flower color formation.
Refrigerated human mesenchymal stromal cells as an alternative to cryostorage for use in clinical investigation
Authors: Christy Barbara A. , Herzig Maryanne C. , Abaasah Isaac E. , Heard Tiffany C. , Cap Andrew P. , Bynum James A.
Published: June 2023

Background

Mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) and other therapeutic cells show efficacy for cardiac damage, neurological disease, chronic lung disease, pediatric graft versus host disease, and several inflammatory conditions. Based on their anti‐inflammatory and immune‐modulatory activities, responsiveness, and secretion of beneficial factors, cellular therapeutics may provide benefits in acute and chronic traumatic injury. However, the use of live cells presents logistical challenges, especially for military trauma. MSCs are generally shipped and stored frozen but require sterile handling before infusion. This requires skilled personnel and equipment not readily available in a forward medical treatment facility or even a small community hospital.

Methods

Commercial human bone marrow‐ and adipose‐derived MSCs from multiple donors were cultured under standard conditions, harvested and stored at 4°C in solution for up to 21 days. Cell viability, ATP content, apoptosis, proliferation capability, immunomodulation activity, and responsiveness were assessed after different amounts of time.

Results

Human MSCs can be stored at 4°C in MSC culture medium for 14 days while maintaining a reasonable level of viability and function. Both viability and function are reduced when MSCs are stored in crystalloid solutions.

Conclusions

This approach makes it feasible to prepare cellular therapeutic agents in a laboratory or commercial facility and ship them under refrigerated conditions. Once they reach their destination, they can be stored at 4°C under conditions similar to blood products. Cells prepared and stored this way could also be used directly with minimal handling, making them more practical for both civilian and military trauma.
Epiploic foramen entrapment in a dog
Authors: Kerby Mary Douglass , Tobias Karen M. , Monto Thomas , Morandi Federica
Published: June 2023

Objective

To report small intestinal herniation through the epiploic foramen in a dog.

Animals

Nine‐year‐old male castrated Shih Tzu.

Study design

Case report.

Methods

The dog presented with an 8‐year history of vomiting and regurgitation and acute onset of melena, lethargy, anorexia, anemia, and suspected gastrointestinal mass or obstruction on prereferral imaging. Abnormalities on abdominal radiographs included a large, midcaudal soft tissue structure and cranial displacement and segmental dilation of the small intestine. On abdominal ultrasound, severe gastric dilation, jejunal tortuosity and stacking, and peritoneal effusion were observed. Epiploic herniation of the small intestine and segmental jejunal devitalization was diagnosed on exploratory laparotomy, and the dog underwent hernia reduction, jejunal resection and anastomosis, and nasogastric tube placement.

Results

Severe gastric distention and atony persisted 24 h after surgery, despite medical management. The dog was taken to surgery for decompressive gastrotomy and placement of gastrostomy and nasojejunostomy tubes for postoperative decompression and feeding, respectively. Three days after the original surgery, the dog developed a septic abdomen from anastomotic dehiscence and underwent jejunal resection and anastomosis and peritoneal drain placement. Gastric dysmotility gradually resolved with the administration of motility stimulants, removal of gastric residual volume, and nutritional support via nasojejunostomy tube feedings. Three months after discharge, the dog was clinically normal.

Conclusion

Epiploic foramen entrapment should be considered a type of herniation in dogs. Clinical suspicion should be raised in dogs with unresolving regurgitation and vomiting, visceral displacement, and stacking and distension of small intestine.
“Indonesian Women Stare at Suspects”: Bharada E’s Masculine Instabilities in The Instagram Fandom Account @richliefams.id
Authors: Arifin Moch. Zainul , Setiawan Benni , Dewojati Cahyaningrum
Published: June 2023

In the context of staring at the suspect, women's and men's eyes see things differently. Recently, the Indonesian people were shocked by the falsification of a scenario by the top police officers of the Republic of Indonesia regarding the death of Brigadier J. Bharada E, who became the suspect in the shooting of Brigadier J, got a lot of female supporters. Because of that, there are five females who manage an Instagram account @richliefams.id to support Bharada E. As a member of the National Police with the image of a guardian of masculinity, Bharada E is stared at and constructed by the female gaze. This article examined how the female gaze objectifies and constructs the masculinity of Bharada E, an Indonesian police officer who became a murder suspect. The research results showed that the female gaze on the Instagram account @richliefams.id made Bharada E an object of enjoyment for watching. In staring, the female gaze constructed the masculine image of Bharada E with various instabilities, ranging from hypermasculinity to powerlessness, such as active-passive instability, conqueror-subjugated instability, and masculine-feminine instability. The image of masculinity showed differences when it was correlated with tribes and job classes. In addition, the five women managing the Instagram account @richliefams.id made Bharada E's image a commodity to be traded for capital gain. Thus, the female subjectivity behind @richliefams.id which objectified and commodified the image of Bharada E was still under the logic of neoliberal hegemony.
Sodium appetite and thirst do not require angiotensinogen production in astrocytes or hepatocytes
Authors: Peltekian Lila , Gasparini Silvia , Fazan Frederico S. , Karthik Samyukta , Iverson Gabrielle , Resch Jon M. , Geerling Joel C.
Published: June 2023

In addition to its renal and cardiovascular functions, angiotensin signalling is thought to be responsible for the increases in salt and water intake caused by hypovolaemia. However, it remains unclear whether these behaviours require angiotensin production in the brain or liver. Here, we use in situ hybridization to identify tissue‐specific expression of the genes required for producing angiotensin peptides, and then use conditional genetic deletion of the angiotensinogen gene (Agt) to test whether production in the brain or liver is necessary for sodium appetite and thirst. In the mouse brain, we identified expression of Agt (the precursor for all angiotensin peptides) in a large subset of astrocytes. We also identified Ren1 and Ace (encoding enzymes required to produce angiotensin II) expression in the choroid plexus, and Ren1 expression in neurons within the nucleus ambiguus compact formation. In the liver, we confirmed that Agt is widely expressed in hepatocytes. We next tested whether thirst and sodium appetite require angiotensinogen production in astrocytes or hepatocytes. Despite virtually eliminating expression in the brain, deleting astrocytic Agt did not reduce thirst or sodium appetite. Despite markedly reducing angiotensinogen in the blood, eliminating Agt from hepatocytes did not reduce thirst or sodium appetite, and in fact, these mice consumed the largest amounts of salt and water after sodium deprivation. Deleting Agt from both astrocytes and hepatocytes also did not prevent thirst or sodium appetite. Our findings suggest that angiotensin signalling is not required for sodium appetite or thirst and highlight the need to identify alternative signalling mechanisms.

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Key points

Angiotensin signalling is thought to be responsible for the increased thirst and sodium appetite caused by hypovolaemia, producing elevated water and sodium intake.

Specific cells in separate brain regions express the three genes needed to produce angiotensin peptides, but brain‐specific deletion of the angiotensinogen gene (Agt), which encodes the lone precursor for all angiotensin peptides, did not reduce thirst or sodium appetite.

Double‐deletion of Agt from brain and liver also did not reduce thirst or sodium appetite.

Liver‐specific deletion of Agt reduced circulating angiotensinogen levels without reducing thirst or sodium appetite. Instead, these angiotensin‐deficient mice exhibited an enhanced sodium appetite.

Because the physiological mechanisms controlling thirst and sodium appetite continued functioning without angiotensin production in the brain and liver, understanding these mechanisms requires a renewed search for the hypovolaemic signals necessary for activating each behaviour.
A Cavity-Based Micromechanical Model for the Shear-Band Failure in Metallic Glasses Under Arbitrary Stress States
Authors: Gao Yanfei
Published: June 2023

Deformation and fracture of metallic glasses are often modeled by stress-based criteria which often incorporate some sorts of pressure dependence. However, detailed mechanisms that are responsible for the shear-band formation and the entire damage initiation and evolution process are complex and the origin of such a pressure dependence is obscure. Here, we argue that the shear-band formation results from the constitutive instability, so that the shear-band angle and arrangements can be easily related to the macroscopic constitutive parameters such as internal friction and dilatancy factor. This is one reason for the observed tension-compression asymmetry in metallic glasses. The free volume coalescence leads to precipitous formation of voids or cavities inside the shear bands, and the intrinsic “ductility” is therefore governed by the growth of these cavities. Based on a generalized Stokes–Hookean analogy, we can derive the critical shear-band failure strain with respect to the applied stress triaxiality, in which the cavity evolution scenarios are sharply different between tension-controlled and shear/compression-dominated conditions. This is another possible reason for the tension-compression asymmetry. It is noted that diffusive-controlled cavity growth could also be the rate-determining process, as suggested by the recent measurements of shear-band diffusivity and viscosity that turn out to satisfy the Stokes–Einstein relationship. This constitutes the third possible reason for the tension-compression asymmetry.
Multicultural Diversity Workforce and Global Technology Collaboration Empowered Semiconductor Manufacturing Excellence in Taiwan: A Manufacturing Engineer’s Perspective
Authors: Shih Albert J.
Published: June 2023

This paper summarizes the perspectives from a manufacturing engineer on how the government policy, global partnership, and diversity of the United States (US), Japanese, European, and traditional Chinese cultures in Taiwan have created a workforce of semiconductor manufacturing talent in the past five decades. The complex interwoven events of Covid-19 pandemic, supply chain resilience, national security, and geopolitical conflicts have made semiconductor manufacturing a key focus of government policy. As a world leader in integrated circuit (IC) design, design software, equipment, and research, the US has struggled in the past few years on the high yield volume manufacturing of the most advanced logic IC and failed to translate research innovations to quality production. Manufacturing, not innovation or equipment, is a key barrier of the US semiconductor industry. Two models for excellence in advanced manufacturing are described. Three pillars of government policy, global collaboration, and multicultural diversity empower semiconductor manufacturing excellence in Taiwan is described. An approach to evaluate, select, educate, and train manufacturing talents is proposed. Directions for semiconductor manufacturing research are discussed. There is no genius in semiconductor manufacturing, which requires extensive experience and continuous improvement without shortcuts to be competitive. The steadfast good government policy, multicultural diversity workforce, and global technology collaboration to achieve semiconductor manufacturing excellence are the focus of the conclusion.
Simulation of acoustic reflection and backscatter from arctic
sea-ice
Authors: Chotiros Nicholas P. , Bayrakci Gaye , Sanford Oliver , Clarke Timothy , Best Angus I.
Published: June 2023

The rapidly warming Arctic ocean demands new ways to monitor and characterize changes in sea-ice distribution, thickness, and mechanical properties. Upward-looking sonars mounted on autonomous underwater vehicles offer possibilities for doing so. Numerical simulations were made of the signal received by an upward-looking sonar under a smooth ice sheet using a wavenumber integration code. Demands on sonar frequency and bandwidth for pulse-echo measurements were analyzed. For typical sea-ice physical properties found in the Arctic ocean, even in highly attenuating sea-ice, there is significant information to be extracted from the received acoustic signal. Discrete resonance frequencies in the signal may be related to leaky Lamb waves, and the frequencies are connected to the ratio of the shear wave speed-to-thickness of the ice sheet. The periodicity of the multiple reflections of a pulse-compressed signal may be related to the ratio of compressional wave speed-to- thickness. Decay rates of both types of signals are indicative of the wave attenuation coefficients. Simulations of the acoustic reflection by rough water–ice interfaces were made. Smaller levels of roughness were found to enhance the acoustic signal, while greater levels of roughness are detrimental to the sea-ice characterization process.
Reduced Cross-Sectional Area of the Gluteus Medius Muscle is Associated With Decreased Activities of Daily Living in Older Adult Patients With Hip Fractures
Authors: Shiraishi Ryo , Sato Keisuke , Chijiiwa Nobumasa , Yoshida Sadao , Ogawa Takahiro
Published: June 2023

We investigated the association between the cross-sectional area (CSA) of the gluteus medius muscle (GMM) and activities of daily living in patients with hip fractures. This retrospective cohort study comprised 111 patients aged ≥65 years who underwent hip fracture rehabilitation. The CSA of the GMM was measured using computed tomography scans in the early stages of hospitalization. The group with decreased CSA of the GMM had a median GMI ≤17 cm2/m2 for male patients and ≤16 cm2/m2 for female patients. Patients in the group with decreased CSA of the GMM had lower functional independence measure gains than those in the control group. After adjusting for confounders, we found that decreased CSA of the GMM was significantly associated with lower functional independence measure gains (β: −0.432, p < .001). In patients with hip fractures, decreased CSA of the GMM was associated with decreased activities of daily living.