bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of the bladder stimulation technique on urine sample collection in newborns: A randomized controlled study
Authors: Korkmaz Nihan , Narter Fatma Kaya , Mutlu Birsen , Şahin Kadriye , Özgörü Hande
Published: April 2024

Aim

The aim of this study is to investigate the effectiveness of the bladder stimulation technique (BST) to collect urine samples from newborns and its effects on physiological parameters and comfort of the newborn.

Design

This was a randomized controlled trial conducted in a NICU. A total of 64 newborns were divided into 2 groups: 32 newborns in the experimental group and 32 newborns in the control group.

Methods

Newborns in the experimental group (EG) were subjected to the BST, and in the control group (CG), urine collection was via sterile urine bags, which is routine practice. Procedural success was defined as the collection of urine samples within 3 min of beginning the stimulation technique in the experimental group and of placing the sterile urine bag in the control group.

Results

The success rate of the procedure in 3 min was 62.5% in the EG and 28% in the CG (P = 0.006, absolute difference: 35%, 95% confidence interval 27% to 42%, NNT: 3). According to the comparison of the overall mean COMFORTneo scale and pain and distress subscale scores at the 1‐ and 3‐min marks, there was a significant difference between the EG and CG (p < 0.05). The mean scores in the EG were higher than those in the CG. The mean oxygen‐saturation was significantly lower in the EG than in the CG (p < 0.05), and the increase in heart rate was significantly higher in the EG (p = 0.018).

Conclusions

BST is a more successful method within 3 min for collecting urine samples from newborns compared to sterile urine bags. However, the newborns' comfort levels minimally decreased at 3 min, and they had moderate pain and distress, while the BST was being implemented. This increase in physiologic parameters was statistically significant but not clinically significant.
The Case for Flexible Exchange Rates in 1953 and 1969: Friedman versus Johnson
Authors: Tavlas George S.
Published: April 2024

During the years of the Bretton Woods system, Milton Friedman and Harry Johnson, respectively, authored two of the most influential articles on exchange‐rate systems. Friedman's article, “The Case for Flexible Exchange Rates,” was published in 1953. Johnson's article, published 16 years later, carried the almost identical title—“The Case for Flexible Exchange Rates, 1969.” While both articles achieved classic status in the 1970s and the 1980s, Johnson's essay appears to have surpassed Friedman's essay in stature in the view of some economists. This paper provides a comparison of the arguments in favor of flexible rates and against fixed rates presented by Friedman and Johnson. I conclude that Friedman's essay presaged all of the major arguments made in Johnson's essay while excluding several major misses made by Johnson. Nevertheless, there were pragmatic reasons why Johnson's essay became more influential.
The association between neonatal birthweight discordance and preeclampsia in twin pregnancy
Authors: Chen Wei , Li Zhuyu , Wang Dongyu , Wang Zilian
Published: April 2024

Purpose

To investigate the association between neonatal birthweight (NBW) discordance and preeclampsia (PE) in twin pregnancy.

Methods

This was a single‐center retrospective cohort study. Women with two live births in the First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat‐sen University from January 2011 to June 2020 were eligible. They were classified into four groups based on the quartiles of NBW discordance in monochorionic (MC) and dichorionic (DC) twin pregnancy. The relationship between NBW discordance and the risk of PE was assessed by logistic regression, subgroup analyses was further analyzed.

Results

A total of 1566 women were eligible for the final analysis, there were 445 MC cases and 1121 DC cases. No matter in monochorionic or dichorionic pregnancy, higher NBW discordance quartiles were associated with increased risks of PE. Compared with women in the lowest NBW discordance quartile, women in the highest NBW discordance quartile had approximately 3.6 and 6.0 times risk of PE in monochorionic and dichorionic pregnancy respectively. The association between quartiles of NBW discordance and the risk of PE were higher in dichorionic pregnancy than in monochorionic pregnancy. No matter in MC or DC pregnancy, no significant interaction effects were identified for maternal age, pregnancy body mass index, mode of conception and whether complicated with gestational diabetes mellitus.

Conclusions

The increased NBW discordance quartile was related to an increased risk of PE. Assessing estimated fetal weight discordance by using ultrasound in clinical practice to predict PE remained to be further researched.
Adaptation and validation of the Claremont Purpose Scale to measure Chinese adolescents' purpose in life
Authors: Wu Yun , Yan Wei , Wu Yiwen , Peng Kaiping
Published: April 2024

Despite purpose measures being developed for adolescents, quantitative research investigating purposes prior to late adolescence and in non‐Western societies remains nascent. This study evaluated the psychometric soundness of the Claremont Purpose Scale among Chinese adolescents. An initial prestudy (n = 34) was conducted to ensure linguistic equivalence. Subsequently, Study 1 (n = 1691) assessed the scale's reliability and factor structure, also investigating its functional equivalence across gender, adolescence stages, and language versions at the item level. Study 2 (n = 7842) investigated the scale's construct, convergent, predictive, and incremental validity, as well as tested for the scale's measurement invariance across different groups at the scale level. The results support the scale's use as a tool for researchers and practitioners to understand and cultivate purpose in adolescents.
INFLUENCE OF PLEISTOCENE GLACIATION ON PETROLEUM SYSTEMS AND GAS HYDRATE STABILITY IN THE OLGA BASIN REGION, BARENTS SEA
Authors: Amberg Sebastian , Littke Ralf , Lutz Rüdiger , Klitzke Peter , Sachse Victoria
Published: April 2024

This study presents the results of a 2D numerical basin and petroleum systems model of the Olga Basin in the NW Barents Sea offshore northern Norway, a frontier exploration area in which there are abundant seafloor oil and gas seepages. The effects of Pleistocene ice sheet advances on rock properties and subsurface fluid migration in this area, and on seafloor hydrocarbon seepage, are not well understood. The 2D numerical model takes account of recurrent ice advances and retreats, together with related erosional and temperature effects, and investigates the influence of these parameters on fluid migration. Model results show that Pleistocene glaciations reduced the temperature in the sedimentary succession in the Olga Basin by up to 20 °C, for example in the uppermost Cretaceous and Jurassic sediments which underlie the seafloor down to a depth of 0.5 to 1 km. The decrease in temperature was in general predominantly related to the intensity of glacial erosion, which was set in this study to a depth of 600 m based on previous studies. Hydrocarbon fluids expelled from potential thermogenic source rocks of Carboniferous to Triassic ages on the SW margin of the Olga Basin migrated to the seafloor through permeable carrier beds. However, fluid migration to the surface in the NE of the study area took place along fault conduits. In a closed fault model scenario, only 0.3 Mt of hydrocarbons are modelled to have migrated along the 0.5 km wide model section; in a second scenario with partially open faults, about 22 Mt of hydrocarbons, representing about 11% of the total hydrocarbons generated by potential thermogenic source rocks in the study area, were lost to the surface during the Pleistocene. The potential for microbial methane generation in the Olga Basin was limited both during the Pleistocene and at the present day due to the significant reduction in temperature during glacial episodes, and due to the intense glacial‐related erosion of the Mesozoic to Cenozoic stratigraphy. During glacial stages, the gas hydrate stability zone beneath the ice sheet is modelled to have extended to a depth of up to 900 m for a pure methane composition, and to a depth of up to 1100 m for a possible thermogenic‐sourced mixed gas composition of 90% methane, 7% propane and 3% ethane. Gas hydrates with this mixed composition are modelled to have been stable in the Olga Basin during the last three glacial advances and into the present. These modelling results provide an insight into the key factors controlling the migration and surface leakage of hydrocarbon fluids in the Olga Basin region, and into the effects of glaciations on rock properties in a glaciated basin.
Behind the Mask: Analyzing the Dual Influence of Social Norms on Pandemic Behavior in Japan1
Authors: Miura Asako , Murayama Aya , Kitamura Hideya
Published: April 2024

This study examines the relationship between social norms and mask‐wearing behavior during the COVID‐19 pandemic in Japan from two distinct normative perspectives: injunctive norms (governmental recommendations) and descriptive norms (observed behavior in others). Data were collected from a panel survey of Japanese residents from February to October 2023. Contrary to the study's hypothesis, which was based on system justification theory, no significant relationship was found between system justification motivation and individual mask‐wearing rates, either before or after the relaxation of governmental rules in March 2023. Additionally, a cross‐lagged panel model analysis conducted after the rule relaxation indicated a relationship between descriptive norms (societal estimates of mask‐wearing rates) and individual behavior. However, the influence of descriptive norms on individual mask‐wearing behavior was not as pronounced as was anticipated. The study highlights the complexities in the interplay between societal norms and individual behavior in public health crises, underscoring the importance of considering various factors, including cultural predispositions.
Judgment's aimless heart
Authors: Vermaire Matthew
Published: April 2024

It's often thought that when we reason to new judgments in inference, we aim at believing the truth, and that this aim of ours can explain important psychological and normative features of belief. I reject this picture: the structure of aimed activity shows that inference is not guided by a truth‐aim. This finding clears the way for a positive understanding of how epistemic goods feature in our doxastic lives. We can indeed make sense of many of our inquisitive and deliberative activities as undertaken in pursuit of such goods; but the evidence‐guided inferences in which those activities culminate will require a different theoretical approach.
Parallel evolution of angiosperm‐like venation in Peltaspermales: a reinvestigation of Furcula
Authors: Coiro Mario , McLoughlin Stephen , Steinthorsdottir Margret , Vajda Vivi , Fabrikant Dolev , Seyfullah Leyla J.
Published: April 2024

Leaf venation is a pivotal trait in the success of vascular plants. Whereas gymnosperms have single or sparsely branched parallel veins, angiosperms developed a hierarchical structure of veins that form a complex reticulum. Its physiological consequences are considered to have enabled angiosperms to dominate terrestrial ecosystems in the Late Cretaceous and Cenozoic.

Although a hierarchical‐reticulate venation also occurs in some groups of extinct seed plants, it is unclear whether these are stem relatives of angiosperms or have evolved these traits in parallel. Here, we re‐examine the morphology of the enigmatic foliage taxon Furcula, a potential early Mesozoic angiosperm relative, and argue that its hierarchical vein network represents convergent evolution (in the Late Triassic) with flowering plants (which developed in the Early Cretaceous) based on details of vein architecture and the absence of angiosperm‐like stomata and guard cells.

We suggest that its nearest relatives are Peltaspermales similar to Scytophyllum and Vittaephyllum, the latter being a genus that originated during the Late Triassic (Carnian) and shares a hierarchical vein system with Furcula.

We further suggest that the evolution of hierarchical venation systems in the early Permian, the Late Triassic, and the Early Cretaceous represent ‘natural experiments’ that might help resolve the selective pressures enabling this trait to evolve.
Litchi aspartic protease LcAP1 enhances plant resistance via suppressing cell death triggered by the pectate lyase PlPeL8 from Peronophythora litchii
Authors: Li Wen , Li Peng , Deng Yizhen , Zhang Zijing , Situ Junjian , Huang Ji , Li Minhui , Xi Pinggen , Jiang Zide , Kong Guanghui
Published: April 2024

Plant cell death is regulated in plant–pathogen interactions. While some aspartic proteases (APs) participate in regulating programmed cell death or defense responses, the defense functions of most APs remain largely unknown.

Here, we report on a virulence factor, PlPeL8, which is a pectate lyase found in the hemibiotrophic pathogen Peronophythora litchii. Through in vivo and in vitro assays, we confirmed the interaction between PlPeL8 and LcAP1 from litchi, and identified LcAP1 as a positive regulator of plant immunity.

PlPeL8 induced cell death associated with NbSOBIR1 and NbMEK2. The 11 conserved residues of PlPeL8 were essential for inducing cell death and enhancing plant susceptibility. Twenty‐three LcAPs suppressed cell death induced by PlPeL8 in Nicotiana benthamiana depending on their interaction with PlPeL8. The N‐terminus of LcAP1 was required for inhibiting PlPeL8‐triggered cell death and susceptibility. Furthermore, PlPeL8 led to higher susceptibility in NbAPs‐silenced N. benthamiana than the GUS‐control.

Our results indicate the crucial roles of LcAP1 and its homologs in enhancing plant resistance via suppression of cell death triggered by PlPeL8, and LcAP1 represents a promising target for engineering disease resistance. Our study provides new insights into the role of plant cell death in the arms race between plants and hemibiotrophic pathogens.
Comprehensive assessment of memory function, inhibitory control, neural activity, and cortisol levels in late pregnancy
Authors: Raz Sivan
Published: April 2024

A considerable proportion of women subjectively perceive a detriment to their cognitive capacity during pregnancy, with decreased memory functions being the most frequently self‐reported concerns. However, objective investigation of these perceived cognitive deficits has yielded inconsistent results. This study focused on memory functions during late pregnancy using multiple tasks designed to assess various memory indices, for example, working memory, learning rate, immediate recall, proactive and retroactive interference, delayed recall, retrieval efficiency, visuospatial constructional ability, recognition, and executive function. Additionally, sustained attention and inhibitory control were examined using a combined recognition stop‐signal task. Electrophysiological brain activity during this task was recorded using a 128‐channel electroencephalographic‐event‐related potential system. Salivary cortisol levels were assessed both prior to and following the experimental session. In contrast to the widely held belief, results demonstrated that women in late pregnancy did not exhibit a decline in their performance across the various memory tests. In terms of accuracy, there was not a single task in which poorer performance was found for pregnant women. The quality of memory performance was comparable, and in some cases even superior, among women in the pregnancy group. On the stop‐signal task, pregnant women exhibited significantly better performance, and their electrophysiological data revealed greater centrally distributed P300 amplitude to “stop” signs, which may signify an enhanced neural efficiency in the domains of inhibitory executive control. Endocrine results revealed that pregnant women exhibited significantly lower levels of salivary cortisol, suggesting an attenuation of hypothalamic−pituitary−adrenocortical axis activity, which may contribute to the optimization of fetal development and growth.
Role of micro‐RNAs associated with adipose‐derived extracellular vesicles in metabolic disorders
Authors: Payet Thomas , Gabinaud Elisa , Landrier Jean‐François , Mounien Lourdes
Published: April 2024

Micro‐RNAs have emerged as important actors in the onset of metabolic disorders including obesity or type 2 diabetes. Particularly, several micro‐RNAs are known to be key modulators of lipid metabolism, glucose homeostasis, or feeding behavior. Interestingly, the role of extracellular vesicles containing micro‐RNAs, especially adipose‐derived extracellular vesicles, are well‐documented endocrine signals and disease biomarkers. However, the role of adipose‐derived extracellular vesicles on the different tissues is different and highly related to the micro‐RNA content. This review provides recent data about the potential involvement of adipose‐derived extracellular vesicle‐containing micro‐RNAs in metabolic diseases.
Tra2β exerts tumor‐promoting effects via GSK3/β‐catenin signaling in oral squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Wu Xiaofen , Zhou Xinyue , Sun Xiaozhen , Ning Yi , Song Xiaona , Song Guohua , Guo Xiaohong , Sun Rui
Published: April 2024

Objectives

The splicing factor transformer‐2 homolog beta (Tra2β) plays a pivotal role in various cancers. Nonetheless, its role in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) has not been comprehensively explored. This study sought to discern the influence of Tra2β on OSCC and its underlying mechanisms.

Materials and Methods

We assessed Tra2β expression in OSCC utilizing immunohistochemistry, qRT‐PCR, and western blotting techniques. siRNA transfection was used to silence Tra2β. Whole transcriptome RNA sequencing (RNA‐seq) analysis was carried out to reveal the alternative splicing (AS) events. KEGG pathway analysis enriched the related pathways. Colony formation, transwell, wound healing, and Annexin V‐FITC/PI were employed to appraise the consequences of Tra2β silencing on OSCC.

Results

Tra2β was highly expressed in both OSCC tissues and cell lines. Knockdown of Tra2β‐regulated AS events with skipped exon (SE) accounts for the highest proportion. Meanwhile, downregulation of Tra2β reduced cell proliferation, migration, and invasion, however increasing cell apoptosis. Moreover, Wnt signaling pathway involved in the function of Tra2β knockdown which was demonstrated directly by a discernible reduction in the expression of GSK3/β‐catenin signaling axis.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that knockdown of Tra2β may exert anti‐tumor effects through the GSK3/β‐catenin signaling pathway in OSCC.
Development and validation of health‐oriented personal evaluation for the community‐dwelling older person based on the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health
Authors: Zhou Liang , Feng Chun , Lu Yue , Zhong Li‐Juan , Gao Jing , Liu Na , Lin Feng , Jiang Zhong‐Li
Published: April 2024

Background

The International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) offers a standardized international terminology to operationalize function management across multiple domains, but the summary score of the ICF qualifier scale provides limited information on the comparison of personal abilities and functioning difficulties.

Objectives

To enhance the interpretative power of the ICF‐based Health‐oriented Personal Evaluation for the community‐dwelling older person (iHOPE‐OP) scale through the implementation of the item response theory (IRT) modelling.

Methods

This cross‐sectional, multi‐centre study administrated 161 ICF categories (58 on body functions, 15 on body structures, 60 on activities or participation and 28 on environmental factors) to evaluate the functional level of 338 older citizens (female = 158, male = 180) residing in community or supportive living facilities. The validation process encompassed assessing the IRT model fitness and evaluating the psychometric properties of the IRT‐derived iHOPE‐OP scale.

Results

The age of participants ranged from 60 to 94.57, with the mean age of 70. The analysis of non‐parametric and parametric models revealed that the three‐parameter logistic IRT model, with a dichotomous scoring principle, exhibited the best fit. The 53‐item iHOPE‐OP scale demonstrated high reliability (Cronbach's α = 0.9729, Guttman's lambda‐2 = 0.9749, Molenaar‐Sijtsma Statistic = 0.9803, latent class reliability coefficient = 0.9882). There was a good validity between person abilities and the Barthel Index (p < .001, r = .83), as well as instrumental activities of daily living (p < .001, r = .84).

Conclusions

IRT methods generate the reliable and valid iHOPE‐OP scale with the most discriminable and minimal items to represent the older person's functional performance at a comprehensive level. The use of the Wright map can aid in presby‐functioning management by visualizing item difficulties and person abilities.

Implications for practice

Considering the intricate and heterogeneous health status of older persons, a single functional assessment tool might not fulfil the need to fully understand the multifaceted health status. For use in conjunction with the IRT and ICF framework, the reliable and valid iHOPE‐OP scale was developed and can be applied to capture presby‐functioning. The Wright map depicts the distribution of item difficulties and person abilities on the same scale that facilitates person‐centred goal setting and tailors intervention.
What’s important in a contract beyond the salary? A primer for pain physicians and trainees
Authors: Marshall Tetyana , Eibel Maria , Marshall Brett , Clary Andrew , Hickey Sergio , Polsunas Patrick , Dressler Alex , Shah Neal , Zhang Cathy , Zheng Danielle , Emerick Trent
Published: April 2024

This manuscript is designed to complement the previously published primer on salary structures for new pain physicians. The previous manuscript “Employment Contract Financial Models for the Pain Physician: A Primer” had a goal of increasing understanding of financial models by pain fellows when preparing for contract negotiations. This manuscript illustrates the many equally important considerations of “non‐monetary” values that are a significant part of contract negotiation outside of salary. It contributes to the overall education for trainees and pain physicians on benefits and job responsibilities.
Identification of Irpex and Rhodotorula on surveillance bronchoscopy in a pediatric lung transplant recipient: A case report and review of literature of these atypical fungal organisms
Authors: Atwood Daniel T. , Köhler Julia R. , Vargas Sara O. , Wong Wai , Klouda Timothy
Published: April 2024

Background

Invasive fungal disease (IFD) is a frequent complication in pediatric lung transplant recipients, occurring in up to 12% of patients in the first year. Risk factors for infection include impaired lung defenses and intense immunosuppressive regimens. While most IFD occurs from Aspergillus, other fungal conidia are continuously inhaled, and infections with fungi on a spectrum of human pathogenicity can occur.

Case Report

We report a case of a 17‐year‐old lung transplant recipient in whom Irpex lacteus and Rhodotorula species were identified during surveillance bronchoscopy. She was asymptomatic and deemed to be colonized by Irpex lacteus and Rhodotorula species following transplant. 2 years after transplantation, she developed a fever, respiratory symptoms, abnormal lung imaging, and histological evidence of acute and chronic bronchitis on transbronchial biopsy. After developing symptoms concerning for a pulmonary infection and graft dysfunction, she was treated for a presumed IFD. Unfortunately, further diagnostic testing could not be performed at this time given her tenuous clinical status. Despite the initiation of antifungal therapy, her graft function continued to decline resulting in a second lung transplantation.

Conclusions

This case raises the concern for IFD in lung transplant recipients from Irpex species. Further investigation is needed to understand the pathogenicity of this organism, reduce the incidence and mortality of IFD in lung transplant recipients, and refine the approach to diagnosis and manage the colonization and isolation of rare, atypical fungal pathogens in immunocompromised hosts.
Recombinant CD5 and CD6 Ectodomains Induce Antiparasitic and Immunomodulatory Effects in Secondary Cystic Echinococcosis
Authors: García‐Luna Joaquín , Rivero‐Osorio Florencia , González‐Porcile María Clara , Arbildi Paula , Miles Sebastián , Magnone Javier , Velasco‐De‐Andrés María , Dematteis Sylvia , Lozano Francisco , Mourglia‐Ettlin Gustavo
Published: April 2024

Scavenger receptors participate in a wide range of biological functions after binding to multiple non‐self or altered self‐ligands. Among them, CD5 and CD6 are lymphocyte scavenger receptors known to interact with different microbial‐associated molecular patterns, and the administration of the recombinant soluble ectodomains of human CD5 (rshCD5) and/or CD6 (rshCD6) has shown therapeutic/prophylactic potential in experimental models of fungal, bacterial and echinococcal infections. The latter is a zoonosis caused by the larval stage of the cestode parasite Echinococcus granulosus sensu lato, which in humans can induce secondary cystic echinococcosis (CE) after the spillage of protoscoleces contained within fertile cysts, either spontaneously or during surgical removal of primary hydatid cysts. Herein, we have analysed the mechanisms behind the significant protection observed in the mouse model of secondary CE following prophylactic administration of rshCD5 or rshCD6. Our results show that both molecules exhibit intrinsic antiparasitic activities in vitro, as well as immunomodulatory functions during early secondary CE, mainly through Th1/Th17 cytokine bias and promotion of peritoneal polyreactive antibodies. These data support the relevance of the parasite components bound by rshCD5 and rshCD6, as well as the potential of their prophylactic administration as a useful strategy to reduce secondary CE in patients.
Bionovelty and ecological restoration
Authors: Volpe John P. , Higgs Eric S. , Jeschke Jonathan M. , Barnhill Katie , Brunk Conrad , Dudney Joan , Govers Laura L. , Hobbs Richard J. , Keenleyside Karen , Murphy Stephen D. , Seddon Philip J. , Sudweeks Jayce , Telhan Orkan , Voicescu Sonia
Published: April 2024

Anthropogenic activity has irreparably altered the ecological fabric of Earth. The emergence of ecological novelty from diverse drivers of change is an increasingly challenging dimension of ecosystem restoration. At the same time, the restorationist's tool kit continues to grow, including a variety of powerful and increasingly prevalent technologies. Thus, ecosystem restoration finds itself at the center of intersecting challenges. How should we respond to increasingly common emergence of environmental system states with little or no historical precedent, whilst considering the appropriate deployment of potentially consequential and largely untested interventions that may give rise to organisms, system states, and/or processes that are likewise without historical precedent? We use the term bionovelty to encapsulate these intersecting themes and examine the implications of bionovelty for ecological restoration.
Deep learning‐based grain‐size decomposition model: A feasible solution for dealing with methodological uncertainty
Authors: Liu Yuming , Wang Ting , Wen Tao , Zhang Jianguang , Liu Bo , Li Yue , Zhang Hang , Rong Xiaoqing , Ma Long , Guo Fei , Liu Xingxing , Sun Youbin
Published: April 2024

Terrigenous clastic sediments cover a large area of the Earth's surface and provide valuable insights into the Earth's evolution and environmental change. Sediment grain‐size decomposition has been widely used as an effective approach to inferring changes in sediment sources, transport processes and depositional environments. Several algorithms, such as single sample unmixing, end‐member modelling analysis and the universal decomposition model, have been developed for grain‐size decomposition. The performance of these algorithms is highly dependent on parameter selections, introducing subjective uncertainty. This uncertainty could undermine the reliability of decomposition results, limit the application of grain‐size decomposition techniques and reduce comparability across different studies. To mitigate the methodological uncertainty, a novel deep learning‐based framework for grain‐size decomposition of terrigenous clastic sediments is proposed. First, an improved universal decomposition model is used to analyse the collected grain‐size data, in order to provide training sets for the end‐to‐end decomposers. To meet the data size requirements of supervised learning, generative adversarial networks are also trained for data augmentation. The performance of the new framework is then evaluated using a small‐scale dataset (73 393 samples from 18 sites) of three sedimentary types (loess, fluvial and lake delta deposits). The decomposed grain‐size results demonstrate high feasibility and great potential of the framework in constructing a robust grain‐size decomposition model. Finally, it is proposed that future grain‐size research should aim to establish guidelines for grain‐size data sharing and produce a big grain‐size database for deep learning.
Identification of the novel allele, HLA‐A*30:01:22, in a Saudi individual
Authors: AlAbduladheem Dalal , Alzahrani Mariam , Alaqool Amal , Alkebasi Shaima , Awaji Mohammad
Published: April 2024

A single nucleotide substitution in exon 5 of HLA‐A*30:01:01:01 results in the novel HLA‐A*30:01:22 allele.
Cryogenic etching of positively tapered silicon pillars with controllable profiles
Authors: Zhu Xiaoli , Pan Aixi , Shokouhi Babak , Cui Bo
Published: April 2024

Fabrication of high aspect ratio silicon nanopillars is challenging for various applications. A cryogenic silicon etching process using SF6 and O2 plasma is investigated to create silicon nanopillars with 10 μm height and tens of nanometers apex. In the process, fluorine radicals react with silicon atoms, releasing volatile SiFx byproducts and then oxygen atoms interact with SiFx and deposit a SiOxFy film acting as an inhibitor. By adjusting the O2 concentration and the forward radio frequency power, this process modifies the formation of the SiOxFy passivation film and adjusts the bombardment of ions onto the inhibitor, resulting in the desired positive taper angles of silicon pillars. Two etching steps, with higher and lower O2 concentrations, are consecutively combined to create a sharp apex and a wide base. The results demonstrate the high etching rate and controllability of cryogenic etching to obtain high aspect ratio silicon pillars with desired profiles.
Observation of an abrupt 3D-2D morphological transition in thin Al layers grown by MBE on InGaAs surface
Authors: Elbaroudy A. , Khromets B. , Sfigakis F. , Bergeron E. , Shi Y. , Tam M. C. A. , Nichols G. , Blaikie T. , Baugh J. , Wasilewski Z. R.
Published: April 2024

Among superconductor/semiconductor hybrid structures, in situ aluminum (Al) grown on InGaAs/InAs is widely pursued for the experimental realization of Majorana Zero Mode quasiparticles. This is due to the high carrier mobility, low effective mass, and large Landé g-factor of InAs, coupled with the relatively high value of the in-plane critical magnetic field in thin Al films. However, growing a thin, continuous Al layer using the molecular beam epitaxy (MBE) is challenging due to aluminum's high surface mobility and tendency for 3D nucleation on semiconductor surfaces. A study of epitaxial Al thin film growth on In0.75Ga0.25As with MBE is presented, focusing on the effects of the Al growth rate and substrate temperature on the nucleation of Al layers. We find that for low deposition rates, 0.1 and 0.5 Å/s, the growth continues in 3D mode during the deposition of the nominal 100 Å of Al, resulting in isolated Al islands. However, for growth rates of 1.5 Å/s and above, the 3D growth mode quickly transitions into island coalescence, leading to a uniform 2D Al layer. Moreover, this transition is very abrupt, happening over an Al flux increase of less than 1%. We discuss the growth mechanisms explaining these observations. The results give new insights into the kinetics of Al deposition and show that with sufficiently high Al flux, a 2D growth on substrates at close to room temperature can be achieved already within the first few Al monolayers. This eliminates the need for complex cryogenic substrate cooling and paves the way for the development of high-quality superconductor-semiconductor interfaces in standard MBE systems.
Characteristics of β-(AlxGa1−x)2O3/Ga2O3 dual-metal gate modulation-doped field-effect transistors simulated by TCAD
Authors: Jia Xiaole , Wang Yibo , Fang Cizhe , Li Bochang , Luo Zhengdong , Liu Yan , Hao Yue , Han Genquan
Published: April 2024

β-(AlxGa1−x)2O3/Ga2O3 modulation-doped field-effect transistors (MODFETs) with a dual-metal gate (DMG) architecture are designed, and the electrical characteristics of the DMG device are investigated in comparison with the single-metal gate (SMG) device by the Technology Computer-Aided Design (TCAD) simulation. The results demonstrate that the DMG MODFETs possess a superior transconductance (gm), current gain cut-off frequency (fT), and power gain cut-off frequency (fMAX) than those of SMG transistors, which is attributed to the regulated channel electric field by a DMG structure. With a gate length of 0.1 μm, the peak values of fT/fMAX of the designed DMG MODFET are obtained as 48.6/50.6 GHz, respectively. Moreover, a comprehensive thermal analysis is conducted between the SMG and DMG devices under steady-state and transient conditions. The DMG MODFET exhibits a lower maximum temperature than the SMG counterpart due to the reduced channel electric field, each subjected to the same power dissipation. This finding underscores the potential of the β-(AlxGa1−x)2O3/Ga2O3 MODFET with the DMG architecture as a promising approach for high-power radio frequency operations.
Materials’ properties of low temperature deposited Cu/W and Cu/Cr multilayer thin films using high power impulse magnetron sputtering
Authors: Huang Yu , Nguyen Tra Anh Khoa , Dang Nhat Minh , Wang Hao-Yu , Lin Ming-Tzer
Published: April 2024

In this study, copper/tungsten (Cu/W) and copper/chromium (Cu/Cr) multilayers were created by stacking bilayer films in a 3:1 ratio, with layer thicknesses ranging from 400 to 800 nm, deposited on Si (100) substrates using high power impulse magnetron sputtering (HiPIMS). The microstructural and surface properties of these films were examined through x-ray diffraction, atomic force microscopy, and scanning electron microscopy. Electrical properties were assessed using a four-point probe, while mechanical properties were measured via nanoindentation. Both multilayer systems showed a decrease in the hardness accompanied by an increase in the elastic modulus with each stacking bilayer. The Cu/W system experienced a gradual hardness reduction (down to 19%), compared to the Cu/Cr system, which exhibited a similar decrease (14.5%). The Cu/W and Cu/Cr multilayer film samples consistently demonstrate a softer nature compared to their bilayer counterparts due to the influence of the underlying Cu soft layers. A distinctive surface smoothness in these multilayer systems correlates with the elastic modulus in a manner unlike that with hardness. These multilayer films also demonstrated altered electrical resistivity, enhancing our understanding and capabilities in fabricating films with an increased number of layers.
Managing the Complexity: An Ethnographic Approach to Understanding Noticing Within Orchestration
Authors: Newland Aubrey , Gano-Overway Lori A.
Published: April 2024

Sport coaching is an inherently complex endeavor. To manage this complexity, some coaches engage in orchestration to plan, organize, monitor, and respond to the dynamic sport environment. Using an ethnographic approach, the current research aimed to understand how a National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division II female basketball coach orchestrated the complex and relational nature of coaching over the course of a sport season and with particular attention to how noticing occurred and informed orchestration. A combination of formal and informal coach and player interviews, observation and field notes, and audio reflections of the coach was carried out over the course of the season. The authors used a realist tale to illustrate the complexity of the coaching experience and how the coach used noticing and relational schemas to navigate ambiguity, the micropolitical landscape, and interpersonal relationships to steer the team toward personal growth and high performance.
NS7a of SADS-CoV promotes viral infection via inducing apoptosis to suppress type III interferon production
Authors: Wang Xiaowei , Qiu Wenjing , Hu Guangli , Diao Xiaoyuan , Li Yunfei , Li Yue , Li Peng , Liu Yufang , Feng Yongtong , Xue Chunyi , Cao Yongchang , Xu Zhichao
Published: April 2024

Swine acute diarrhea syndrome coronavirus (SADS-CoV) is a newly discovered swine coronavirus with potential cross-species transmission risk. Although SADS-CoV-induced host cell apoptosis and innate immunity antagonization has been revealed, underlying signaling pathways remain obscure. Here, we demonstrated that infection of SADS-CoV induced apoptosis
in vivo
and
in vitro
, and that viral protein NS7a is mainly responsible for SADS-CoV-induced apoptosis in host cells. Furthermore, we found that NS7a interacted with apoptosis-inducing factor mitochondria associated 1 (AIFM1) to activate caspase-3 via caspase-6 in SADS-CoV-infected cells, and enhanced SADS-CoV replication. Importantly, NS7a suppressed poly(I:C)-induced expression of type III interferon (IFN-λ) via activating caspase-3 to cleave interferon regulatory factor 3 (IRF3), and caspase-3 inhibitor protects piglets against SADS-CoV infection
in vivo
. These findings reveal how SADS-CoV induced apoptosis to inhibit innate immunity and provide a valuable clue to the development of effective drugs for the clinical control of SADS-CoV infection.

IMPORTANCE

Over the last 20 years, multiple animal-originated coronaviruses, including severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV), middle east respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV), and SARS-CoV-2, have caused millions of deaths, seriously jeopardized human health, and hindered social development, indicating that the study of animal-originated coronaviruses with potential for cross-species transmission is particularly important. Bat-originated swine acute diarrhea syndrome coronavirus (SADS-CoV), discovered in 2017, can not only cause fatal diarrhea in piglets, but also infect multiple human cells, with a potential risk of cross-species transmission, but its pathogenesis is unclear. In this study, we demonstrated that NS7a of SADS-CoV suppresses IFN-λ production via apoptosis-inducing factor mitochondria associated 1 (AIFM1)-caspase-6-caspase-3-interferon regulatory factor 3 (IRF3) pathway, and caspase-3 inhibitor (Z-DEVD-FMK) can effectively inhibit SADS-CoV replication and protect infected piglets. Our findings in this study contribute to a better understanding of SADS-CoV-host interactions as a part of the coronaviruses pathogenesis and using apoptosis-inhibitor as a drug as potential therapeutic approaches for prevention and control of SADS-CoV infection.
Genes involved in the limited spread of SARS-CoV-2 in the lower respiratory airways of hamsters may be associated with adaptive evolution
Authors: Takada Kosuke , Orba Yasuko , Kida Yurie , Wu Jiaqi , Ono Chikako , Matsuura Yoshiharu , Nakagawa So , Sawa Hirofumi , Watanabe Tokiko
Published: April 2024

Novel respiratory viruses can cause a pandemic and then evolve to coexist with humans. The Omicron strain of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 has spread worldwide since its emergence in late 2021, and its sub-lineages are now established in human society. Compared to previous strains, Omicron is markedly less invasive in the lungs and causes less severe disease. One reason for this is that humans are acquiring immunity through previous infection and vaccination, but the nature of the virus itself is also changing. Using our newly established low-volume inoculation system, which reflects natural human infection, we show that the Omicron strain spreads less efficiently into the lungs of hamsters compared with an earlier Wuhan strain. Furthermore, by characterizing chimeric viruses with the Omicron gene in the Wuhan strain genetic background and
vice versa
, we found that viral genes downstream of ORF3a, but not the S gene, were responsible for the limited spread of the Omicron strain in the lower airways of the virus-infected hamsters. Moreover, molecular evolutionary analysis of SARS-CoV-2 revealed a positive selection of genes downstream of ORF3a (M and E genes). Our findings provide insight into the adaptive evolution of the virus in humans during the pandemic convergence phase.

IMPORTANCE

The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) Omicron variant has spread worldwide since its emergence in late 2021, and its sub-lineages are established in human society. Compared to previous strains, the Omicron strain is less invasive in the lower respiratory tract, including the lungs, and causes less severe disease; however, the mechanistic basis for its restricted replication in the lower airways is poorly understood. In this study, using a newly established low-volume inoculation system that reflects natural human infection, we demonstrated that the Omicron strain spreads less efficiently into the lungs of hamsters compared with an earlier Wuhan strain and found that viral genes downstream of ORF3a are responsible for replication restriction in the lower respiratory tract of Omicron-infected hamsters. Furthermore, we detected a positive selection of genes downstream of ORF3a (especially the M and E genes) in SARS-CoV-2, suggesting that these genes may undergo adaptive changes in humans.
Differential stability of Gcn4p controls its cell-specific activity in differentiated yeast colonies
Authors: Váchová Libuše , Plocek Vítězslav , Maršíková Jana , Rešetárová Stanislava , Hatáková Ladislava , Palková Zdena
Published: April 2024

Gcn4p belongs to conserved AP-1 transcription factors involved in many cellular processes, including cell proliferation, stress response, and nutrient availability in yeast and mammals. AP-1 activities are regulated at different levels, such as translational activation or protein degradation, which increases the variability of regulation under different conditions. Gcn4p activity in unstructured yeast liquid cultures increases upon amino acid deficiency and is rapidly eliminated upon amino acid excess. Gcn2p kinase is the major described regulator of Gcn4p that enables
GCN4
mRNA translation
via
the uORFs mechanism. Here, we show that Gcn4p is specifically active in U cells in the upper regions and inactive in L cells in the lower regions of differentiated colonies. Using
in situ
microscopy in combination with analysis of mutants and strains with GFP at different positions in the translational regulatory region of Gcn4p, we show that cell-specific Gcn4p activity is independent of Gcn2p or other translational or transcriptional regulation. Genetically, biochemically, and microscopically, we identified cell-specific proteasomal degradation as a key mechanism that diversifies Gcn4p function between U and L cells. The identified regulation leading to active Gcn4p in U cells with amino acids and efficient degradation in starved L cells differs from known regulations of Gcn4p in yeast but shows similarities to the activity of AP-1 ATF4 in mammals during insulin signaling. These findings may open new avenues for understanding the parallel activities of Gcn4p/ATF4 and reveal a novel biological role for cell type-specific regulation of proteasome-dependent degradation.

IMPORTANCE

In nature, microbes usually live in spatially structured communities and differentiate into precisely localized, functionally specialized cells. The coordinated interplay of cells and their response to environmental changes, such as starvation, followed by metabolic adaptation, is critical for the survival of the entire community. Transcription factor Gcn4p is responsible for yeast adaptation under amino acid starvation in liquid cultures, and its activity is regulated mainly at the level of translation involving Gcn2p kinase. Whether Gcn4p functions in structured communities was unknown. We show that translational regulation of Gcn4p plays no role in the development of colony subpopulations; the main regulation occurs at the level of stabilization of the Gcn4p molecule in the cells of one subpopulation and its proteasomal degradation in the other. This regulation ensures specific spatiotemporal activity of Gcn4p in the colony. Our work highlights differences in regulatory networks in unorganized populations and organized structures of yeast, which in many respects resemble multicellular organisms.
A little mica goes a long way: Impact of phyllosilicates on quartz deformation fabrics in naturally deformed rocks
Authors: Gottardi Raphaël , Casale Gabriele , Economou John , Morris Kristen
Published: April 2024

Quartz deformation fabrics reflect stress and strain conditions in mylonites, and their interpretation has become a mainstay of kinematic and structural analysis. Quantification of grain size and shape and interpretation of textures reflecting deformation mechanisms can provide estimates of flow stress, strain rate, kinematic vorticity, and deformation temperatures. Empirical calibration and determination of quartz flow laws is based on laboratory experiments of pure samples; however, pure quartzite mylonites are relatively uncommon. In particular, phyllosilicates may localize and partition strain that can inhibit or enhance different deformation mechanisms. Experimental results demonstrate that even minor phyllosilicate content (<15 vol%) can dramatically alter the strain behavior of quartz; however, few field studies have demonstrated these effects in a natural setting.

To investigate the role of phyllosilicates on quartz strain fabrics, we quantify phyllosilicate content and distribution in quartzite mylonites from the Miocene Raft River detachment shear zone (NW Utah, USA). We use microstructural analysis and electron backscatter diffraction to quantify quartz deformation fabrics and muscovite spatial distribution, and X-ray computed tomography to quantify muscovite content in samples with varying amounts of muscovite collected across the detachment shear zone. Phyllosilicate content has a direct control on quartz deformation mechanisms, and application of piezometers and flow laws based on quartz deformation fabrics yield strain rates and flow stresses that vary by up to two orders of magnitude across our samples. These findings have important implications for the application of flow laws in quartzite mylonites and strain localization mechanisms in mid-crustal shear zones.