bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Aerobic response to thermal stress across ontogeny and habitats in a teleost fish
Authors: Schneider Eric V. C. , Zuckerman Zachary C. , Talwar Brendan S. , Cooke Steven J. , Shultz Aaron D. , Suski Cory D.
Published: May 2023

Near‐future climate change projections predict an increase in sea surface temperature that is expected to have significant and rapid effects on marine ectotherms, potentially affecting a number of critical life processes. Some habitats also undergo more thermal variability than others, and the inhabitants therefore must be more tolerant to acute periods of extreme temperatures. Mitigation of these outcomes may occur through acclimation, plasticity or adaptation, although the rate and extent of a species' ability to adjust to warmer temperatures is largely unknown, specifically as it pertains to effects on various performance metrics in fishes that inhabit multiple habitats throughout ontogenetic stages. Here, the thermal tolerance and aerobic performance of schoolmaster snapper (Lutjanus apodus Walbaum, 1792) collected from two different habitats were experimentally assessed under different warming scenarios (temperature treatments = 30, 33, 35, 36°C) to assess vulnerability to an imminently changing thermal habitat. Larger subadult and adult fish collected from a 12 m deep coral reef exhibited a lower critical thermal maximum (CTmax) compared to smaller juvenile fish collected from a 1 m deep mangrove creek. However, the CTmax of the creek‐sampled fish was only 2°C above the maximum water temperature measured in the habitat from which they were collected, compared to a CTmax that was 8°C higher in the reef‐sampled fish, resulting in a wider thermal safety margin at the reef site. A generalized linear model showed a marginally significant effect of temperature treatment on resting metabolic rate (RMR), but there were no effects of any of the tested factors on maximum metabolic rate or absolute aerobic scope. Post hoc tests revealed that RMR was significantly higher for creek‐collected fish at the 36°C treatment and significantly higher for reef‐collected fish at 35°C. Swimming performance [measured by critical swimming speed] was significantly lower at the highest temperature treatment for creek‐collected fish and trended down with each successive increase in temperature treatment for reef‐collected fish. These results show that metabolic rate and swimming performance responses to thermal challenges are somewhat consistent across collection habitats, and this species may be susceptible to unique types of thermal risk depending on its habitat. We show the importance of intraspecific studies that couple habitat profiles and performance metrics to better understand possible outcomes under thermal stress.
Heat‐treated Pediococcus acidilactici LM1013‐mediated inhibition of biofilm formation by Cutibacterium acnes and its application in acne vulgaris: A single‐arm clinical trial
Authors: Bae Won‐Young , Jung Woo‐Hyun , Lee Young Jin , Shin So Lim , An Yu‐Kyung , Kim Tae‐Rahk , Sohn Minn
Published: May 2023

Purpose

Acne vulgaris is a common skin disease accompanied by chronic inflammation in the pilosebaceous follicles, resulting from excessive Cutibacterium acnes. This study aimed to investigate the inhibition of biofilm formation by C. acnes ATCC 6919 using heat‐treated Pediococcus acidilactici LM1013 (HT‐LM1013), previously isolated from the Korean traditional fermented alcoholic beverage—makgeolli, and its application as a leave‐on‐type product for patients with acne vulgaris.

Methods

HT‐LM1013 was prepared by Lactomason and homogenized using a high‐pressure homogenizer. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle, and lipase activity were evaluated for C. acnes inhibition. Inhibition of biofilm formation was demonstrated using a crystal violet solution. Damaged C. acnes was observed using field‐emission scanning electron microscopy (FE‐SEM). Clinical trials were performed using a leave‐on‐type product containing HT‐LM1013.

Results

HT‐LM1013 inhibited the TCA cycle (36.80%) and lipase activity using palmitate (31.89%), stearate (36.91%), and oleate (30.86%) as substrates at 1 × MIC (p < 0.01). After treatment with HT‐LM1013, concave and elongated shapes of C. acnes were observed by FE‐SEM. In addition, HT‐LM1013 inhibited biofilm formation by 71.75% at 1 × MIC (p < 0.001) and removed 73.35% of mature biofilms (p < 0.01). In the clinical trial, the leave‐on‐type product decreased the number of closed comedones from 14.04 to 10.22, open comedones from 7.22 to 4.39%, and sebum content to 76.23% at week 4 (p < 0.01). The satisfaction score of the participants was recorded 3.83 on a five‐point scale.

Conclusion

HT‐LM1013 is potent for the treatment of acne vulgaris.
Knowledge, attitude, and practice regarding postoperative delirium among cardiac surgery nurses: A cross‐sectional multi‐centre study
Authors: Zhou Chenxi , Qu Xi , Wang Lan , Wu Qiansheng , Zhou Yanrong
Published: May 2023

Aims and Objectives

To examine knowledge, attitude, and practice regarding postoperative delirium and the relationships among cardiac surgery nurses in China.

Background

Postoperative delirium is a prevalent and devastating complication following cardiac surgery. Nurses play a part in multi‐disciplinary collaboration for preventing and managing postoperative delirium, of whom knowledge, attitude, and practice are essential.

Design

A cross‐sectional multi‐centre study.

Methods

Nurses from cardiac surgery wards and intensive care units of five tertiary hospitals in Wuhan, Hubei Province, China were enrolled. Data were gathered online using a self‐administered questionnaire. Student's t‐test, or analysis of variance, or non‐parametric tests were performed to compare differences across groups. Bootstrapping mediation analysis was conducted to examine the relationship between knowledge, attitude, and practice. The STROBE checklist was used for the reporting of this study.

Results

Of 429 nurses, a moderate level of knowledge and high levels of attitude and practice regarding postoperative delirium were revealed. Nurses with higher education, higher academic title, 5–10 years of practice in nursing and cardiac surgery nursing exhibited increased knowledge. With advanced age, practice in a specialised hospital, and training experience, nurses reported a better degree of practice. Attitude played a full mediating effect in the relationship between knowledge and practice, accounting for 81.82% of the total effects.

Conclusions

Knowledge, attitude, and practice regarding postoperative delirium are promising among Chinese cardiac surgery nurses, with knowledge of screening tools and perioperative nonpharmacological interventions and practice of screening in need of enhancement. Attitudes act as an intermediary between knowledge and practice regarding postoperative delirium.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

Innovative and stratified in‐service education is warranted to address knowledge enhancement. Meanwhile, organisations are suggested to make efforts to foster nurses' positive attitudes, particularly in creating a favourable culture and developing institutional protocols for postoperative delirium management to improve practice.

No Patient or Public Contribution

This study is focused on cardiac surgery nurses' knowledge, attitude, and practice regarding postoperative delirium, and the research questions and design are from clinical nursing practice, literature review, and expert panel review, in which the patient or public is temporarily not involved.
Bilateral treatment of the masseter with botulinum toxin: Consequences for mastication, muscle force and the mandibular condyle
Authors: Liu Zi‐Jun (Zee) , Rafferty Katherine L. , Wang Dennis B. , Owart Birkin , Herring Susan W.
Published: May 2023

Background

Clinical use of botulinum neurotoxins (BoNTs) in masticatory muscles is usually bilateral, but most studies on the functional consequences of BoNT treatment have used unilaterally treated animals.

Objectives

To test the hypothesis that bilateral BoNT treatment of the rabbit masseter hampers mastication and to assess its effects on bone density of the mandibular condyles.

Methods

Ten 5‐month‐old female rabbits received injections of BoNT into both masseter muscles and nine sham animals received saline. Body weight, incisor bite force during masseter tetany, and surface and fine‐wire electromyography (EMG) of the masseter and medial pterygoid muscles were assessed at regular intervals. Half the sample was terminated after 4 weeks and the remainder after 12 weeks. Muscles were weighed and mandibular condyles were scanned with microCT to analyse bone density.

Results

BoNT rabbits lost weight and required a soft‐food diet. Incisor occlusal force plummeted after BoNT injection and remained lower than the shams. The duration of masticatory cycles was increased in the BoNT rabbits for 5 weeks, with most of the increase due to the adductor burst. Masseteric EMG amplitude began to improve at Week 5, but remained low on the working side throughout the experiment. At the 12‐week endpoint, masseter muscles were smaller in the BoNT rabbits. Medial pterygoid muscles did not compensate. Condylar bone density was reduced.

Conclusion

Bilateral treatment of the rabbit masseter by BoNT severely affected chewing performance. Even after a 3‐month recovery period, deficits remained in bite force, muscle size and condylar bone density.
Balancing costs and benefits of managing hibernacula of cavernicolous bats
Authors: Boyles Justin G. , Brack Virgil , McGuire Liam P.
Published: May 2023

Manipulation of microclimates in caves and mines has gained renewed interest as a conservation and management strategy for populations of hibernating bats devastated by white‐nose syndrome (WNS). WNS creates an energy imbalance for hibernating bats and ultimately leads to starvation, so some researchers and management agencies suggest modifying hibernacula to meet conditions historically thought to minimise energy expenditure during hibernation.

Modifying hibernacula has great potential as a management strategy, but an oversimplified view of hibernation physiology and behaviour leads to an incomplete balancing of costs and benefits. Hibernaculum manipulations, as currently being implemented in the USA, carry high risk because cave systems used by bats have all the hallmarks of systems prone to falling into ecological traps.

We present an individual‐based model of bat energetics during hibernation, demonstrating the risk of relying on oversimplified descriptions of physiology and environmental conditions to design and implement hibernaculum manipulations. When realistic levels of variation in ambient conditions are included, proposed ‘target’ microclimates are very risky for hibernating bats.

Realistic natural conditions in many or most hibernacula mean that modifications to the microclimate may produce modest energy savings for hibernating bats while potentially exposing them to substantial long‐term fitness declines.

Due to the risks of creating ecological traps and negative energetic consequences, we generally urge caution when modifying subterranean sites for bat use, and specifically suggest that if hibernacula are modified, the primary goal should be to maximise spatial gradients and minimise temporal variability in ambient conditions (temperature and humidity), as opposed to aiming to achieve a specific midwinter temperature.
Early‐life telomere length predicts life‐history strategy and reproductive senescence in a threatened wild songbird
Authors: Morland Fay , Ewen John G. , Simons Mirre J. P. , Brekke Patricia , Hemmings Nicola
Published: May 2023

Telomeres are well known for their associations with lifespan and ageing across diverse taxa. Early‐life telomere length can be influenced by developmental conditions and has been shown positively affect lifetime reproductive success in a limited number of studies. Whether these effects are caused by a change in lifespan, reproductive rate or perhaps most importantly reproductive senescence is unclear. Using long‐term data on female breeding success from a threatened songbird (the hihi,Notiomystis cincta), we show that the early‐life telomere length of individuals predicts the presence and rate of future senescence of key reproductive traits: clutch size and hatching success. In contrast, senescence of fledging success is not associated with early‐life telomere length, which may be due to the added influence of biparental care at this stage. Early‐life telomere length does not predict lifespan or lifetime reproductive success in this species. Females may therefore change their reproductive allocation strategy depending on their early developmental conditions, which we hypothesise are reflected in their early‐life telomere length. Our results offer new insights on the role that telomeres play in reproductive senescence and individual fitness and suggest telomere length can be used as a predictor for future life history in threatened species.
Positive associations matter: Microbial relationships drive tick microbiome composition
Authors: Fountain‐Jones Nicholas M. , Khoo Benedict S. , Rau Austin , Berman Jesse D. , Burton Erin N. , Oliver Jonathan D.
Published: May 2023

Untangling how factors such as environment, host, associations among bacterial species and dispersal predict microbial composition is a fundamental challenge. In this study, we use complementary machine‐learning approaches to quantify the relative role of these factors in shaping microbiome variation of the blacklegged tickIxodes scapularis.I. scapularisis the most important vector forBorrelia burgdorferi(the causative agent for Lyme disease) in the U.S. as well as a range of other important zoonotic pathogens. Yet the relative role of the interactions between pathogens and symbionts compared to other ecological forces is unknown. We found that positive associations between microbes where the occurrence of one microbe increases the probability of observing another, including between both pathogens and symbionts, was by far the most important factor shaping the tick microbiome. Microclimate and host factors played an important role for a subset of the tick microbiome includingBorrelia(Borreliella) andRalstonia, but for the majority of microbes, environmental and host variables were poor predictors at a regional scale. This study provides new hypotheses on how pathogens and symbionts might interact within tick species, as well as valuable predictions for how some taxa may respond to changing climate.
Russia and the Kurds: A Soft‐Power Tool for the Kremlin?
Authors: Borshchevskaya Anna
Published: May 2023

Russia has been the Kurds’ patron for more than two centuries, motivated primarily by the cynical desire to use them against adversaries in broader great‐power games while casting itself as a champion of the Kurdish cause. Russia's longstanding and multifaceted relationship with the Kurds demonstrates that when it comes to geopolitics, the United States has more than brute force to contend with. The Russian state also utilizes soft power as an authoritarian state defines it: a tool of pragmatic leverage. While the Kurds are not a monolith, they are anxious about the trajectory of US politics and feel they cannot rely on anyone. The Russian state has opportunities to undermine American interests in places such as Syria and Iraq through its connections with Kurdish groups. This article reviews tsarist, Soviet, and post‐Soviet policies toward the Kurds, including Kurdish communities in Russia. It concludes with a discussion about implications for the United States, given that Moscow will not let go of its Kurdish card, including in the context of the Ukraine invasion.
A probabilistic deep reinforcement learning approach for optimal monitoring of a building adjacent to deep excavation
Authors: Pan Yue , Qin Jianjun , Zhang Limao , Pan Weiqiang , Chen Jin‐Jian
Published: May 2023

During a deep excavation project, monitoring the structural health of the adjacent buildings is crucial to ensure safety. Therefore, this study proposes a novel probabilistic deep reinforcement learning (PDRL) framework to optimize the monitoring plan to minimize the cost and excavation‐induced risk. First, a Bayesian‐bi‐directional general regression neural network is built as a probabilistic model to describe the relationship between the ground settlement of the foundation pit and the safety state of the adjacent building, along with the actions in a dynamic manner. Subsequently, a double deep Q‐network method, which can capture the realistic features of the excavation management problem, is trained to form a closed decision loop for continuous learning of monitoring strategies. Finally, the proposed PDRL approach is applied to a real‐world deep excavation case in No. 14 Shanghai Metro. This approach can estimate the time‐variant probability of damage occurrence and maintenance actions and update the state of the adjacent building. According to the strategy proposed via PDRL, monitoring of the adjacent buildings begins in the middle stage rather than on the first day of the excavation project if there is full confidence in the quality of the monitoring data. When the uncertainty level of data rises, the starting day might shift to an earlier date. It is worth noting that the proposed PDRL method is adequately robust to address the uncertainties embedded in the environment and model, thus contributing to optimizing the monitoring plan for achieving cost‐effectiveness and risk mitigation.
Association between low levels of anti‐inflammatory cytokines during pregnancy and postpartum depression
Authors: Ono Chiaki T. , Yu Zhiqian , Obara Taku , Ishikuro Mami , Murakami Keiko , Kikuya Masahiro , Kikuchi Saya , Kobayashi Natsuko , Kudo Hisaaki , Ogishima Soichi , Minegishi Naoko , Sugawara Junichi , Kuriyama Shinichi , Yamamoto Masayuki , Yaegashi Nobuo , Tomita Hiroaki
Published: May 2023

Aim

Previous studies based on a relatively limited number of subjects have indicated potential associations between plasma cytokine concentrations in perinatal women and postpartum depression (PPD). This report aimed to examine alterations in cytokine levels during pregnancy and after delivery by measuring nine cytokines in prenatal and postnatal plasma samples in a large cohort.

Methods

A nested, case–control study was conducted using plasma samples from 247 women with PPD (Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale: EPDS ≥9) and 243 age‐matched control (EPDS ≤2) women from among perinatal women who participated in the Tohoku Medical Megabank three‐generation cohort. Concentrations of nine plasma cytokines (IFN‐γ, IL‐1β, IL‐4, IL‐6, IL‐10, IL‐12p40, IL‐12p70, IL‐13, and TNF‐α) in plasma collected at the time of enrollment during pregnancy and 1 month after delivery were determined using an immunoassay kit.

Results

Cross‐sectional comparisons of cytokine levels during pregnancy and after delivery indicated that the PPD group maintained significantly lower plasma IL‐4 levels during pregnancy and after delivery than the control group, and that plasma IL‐4 levels decreased significantly during pregnancy regardless of PPD status. Plasma IL‐10 levels were significantly higher during pregnancy than after delivery only among healthy controls, and plasma IL‐10 levels were significantly higher in the control group than in the PPD group. Moreover, IFN‐γ, IL‐6, IL‐12p40, and TNF‐α levels were significantly lower during pregnancy compared with after delivery regardless of PPD status.

Conclusions

These results suggest a potential protective effect of the anti‐inflammatory cytokines IL‐4 and IL‐10 during pregnancy against the development of PPD.
Knowledge and belief of fecal occult blood screening: A systematic review
Authors: Hu Li‐feng , Yue Qian‐qian , Tang Tian , Sun Ying‐xue , Zou Jin‐yu , Huang Yu‐ting , Zeng Xi , Zeng Ying
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is associated with a high incidence and mortality rate. Fecal occult blood test (FOBT) is effective in the prevention of CRC.

Objective

This study aimed to assess knowledge and beliefs regarding FOBT‐based screening.

Methods

This study used PubMed, Cochrane Library, MEDLINE Complete, and Web of Science to search for articles. Original full‐text studies in English language focusing on knowledge and beliefs of FOBT screening were included.

Results

A total of 32 articles were included. This study indicated that the population in most studies had inadequate knowledge and lacked beliefs toward FOBT‐based screening. Most of the extracted studies showed that less than half of the participants had heard of FOBT‐based screening. Six studies showed that less than 50% of participants had knowledge of FOBT age. Three studies found that less than 40% of participants were aware of the screening interval. Some participants perceived the benefits of FOBT‐based screening, while others perceived many barriers to the test.

Conclusion

Participants’ knowledge and belief in FOBT‐based screening were insufficient. This review highlights the importance of educational programs to increase knowledge and beliefs regarding FOBT‐based screening. It is important to include FOBT‐based screening in the health care system to promote the secondary prevention of CRC.
Diaporthe actinidiicola: A novel species causing branch canker or dieback of fruit trees in Henan Province, China
Authors: Cao Jia‐Yuan , Gao Wen‐Kai , Yao Meng , Xie Shun‐Pei , Yin Xin‐Ming , Xu Chao , Wu Hai‐Yan , Zhang Meng , Guo Ya‐Shuang
Published: May 2023

Pear (Pyrus), walnut (Juglans) and kiwifruit (Actinidia) are important cash crops in China. Recently, symptoms of branch canker or dieback have been frequently observed in many orchards in Henan Province and have resulted in high losses of fruit production. In this study, symptomatic branches were collected for aetiological isolation from three hosts during 2020 and 2021. Seven isolates from these hosts were identified as one novel species, based on morphological characteristics and phylogenetic analyses of the concatenated sequences of the internal transcribed spacer of the ribosomal DNA (ITS), translation elongation factor 1α (TEF), β‐tubulin (TUB), histone (HIS) and calmodulin (CAL). We proposed the name Diaporthe actinidiicola and completed Koch's postulates to confirm pathogenicity. Host range evaluation indicated that D. actinidiicola could infect all inoculated fruit trees (pear, kiwifruit, walnut, apple [Malus] and peach [Prunus]) and the isolates from different hosts were most virulent on their original host. This study characterizes a novel Diaporthe species from three different hosts in China and contributes useful data for practicable disease management.
Universal decomposition model: An efficient technique for palaeoenvironmental reconstruction from grain‐size distributions
Authors: Liu Yuming , Wang Ting , Liu Bo , Long Yili , Liu Xingxing , Sun Youbin
Published: May 2023

For many years, researchers have used the decomposition of grain‐size distributions to acquire critical information on provenances, transport dynamics and depositional environments. This study presents a novel decomposition method, termed the universal decomposition model, for analysing grain‐size data. The universal decomposition model unifies single‐sample unmixing and end‐member modelling analysis approaches and overcomes their respective limitations. To evaluate the effectiveness of the universal decomposition model, an artificial dataset and borehole data from the west Weihe Basin were analysed. Results indicate that the universal decomposition model algorithm performs proficiently on both datasets. Correlation analysis was employed to compare the abilities of universal decomposition model, single‐sample unmixing and end‐member modelling analysis to extract minor signals, with universal decomposition model and single‐sample unmixing exhibiting greater proficiency. Furthermore, the universal decomposition model provides a broader perspective for contrasting single‐sample unmixing and end‐member modelling analysis. The study highlights the inadequacy of the statistical method for determining the optimal number of components and summarizes an empirical approach. Moreover, disregarding the potential diversity in component shapes of real‐world sediments has been demonstrated to be a sub‐optimal design. Finally, this article presents results of a new investigation into the geological significance of sediment grain sizes revealed by various analytical methods that suggest that the universal decomposition model has enormous potential in reconstructing paleoenvironment.
Modern soil aggregates–colluvium generated by overland flow – stratigraphy and physical experiments
Authors: Paisani Julio Cesar , Manica Rafael , Santos Marcos Cesar Pereira , Rodrigues Rafaela Ana Rech
Published: May 2023

In tropical and subtropical zones, sandy colluviums composed of soil aggregates are highly significant for the understanding of depositional processes in the natural realm. The formation processes of soil aggregates–colluviums (pedosediments in other climate zones) are poorly defined. Deeper knowledge on the origin of soil aggregates–colluviums from low‐density or high‐density overland flows is essential for improved understanding of colluviums found in modern, Quaternary and ancient stratigraphic records. The understanding of depositional processes of soil aggregates–colluviums has been integrated into this study by combining macrostratigraphy and microstratigraphy and laboratory experimental techniques. The actualism principle was applied using a sedimentological description of a modern soil aggregates–colluvium deposit generated by overland flows. In addition, physical experiments were performed to simulate the natural sedimentation processes of overland flows composed of various sediment concentrations. The results indicate the maximum grain size (granules and pebbles) of the soil aggregates–colluvium beds originating from high competence overland flows involving large volumes of local rainfall (storms). Overland flows are responsible for laminated beds of soil aggregates–colluviums; however, the laminations are heterogeneous sequences compared to those of low‐density flows, which have homogeneous sequences. The microstratigraphy of the natural, modern soil aggregates–colluviums shows varied structures in overland flow laminations, implying several types of flow density. The internal organization of the laminae suggests that the accretion of the colluvium deposit occurred through high‐density flows and high to low‐transitional density flows. Low‐density flows were less frequent and may constitute either single or more diluted tail flows. Finally, overland flow can generate facies with similar end members to mass movements, being distinguished only by bed thickness. Linking field observations with experimental results, as in the present study, leads to deeper understanding of overland flow sedimentation processes, especially in tropical and subtropical zones.
Effect of DNA aptamer through blocking of negative regulation of Wnt/β‐catenin signaling in human hair follicle dermal papilla cells
Authors: Won Areum , Choi Sooho , Kim A‐Ru , Hong Junkee
Published: May 2023

Background

When Wnt binds to the N‐terminal of Frizzled, a conformational change occurs in the C‐terminal of Frizzled, which binds to Dishevelled1 (Dvl1), a Wnt signaling component protein. When Dvl1 binds to the C‐terminal of Frizzled, the concentration of β‐catenin increases and it enters the nucleus to transmit cell proliferation signals. CXXC‐type zinc finger protein 5 (CXXC5) binds to the Frizzled binding site of Dvl1 and interferes with Dvl1–Frizzled binding. Therefore, blocking CXXC5–Dvl1 binding may induce Wnt signal transduction.

Materials and methods

We used WD‐aptamer, a DNA aptamer that specifically binds to Dvl1 and interferes with CXXC5–Dvl1 interaction. We confirmed the penetration of WD‐aptamer into human hair follicle dermal papilla cells (HFDPCs) and measured β‐catenin expression following treatment with WD‐aptamer in HFDPCs, wherein Wnt signaling was activated by Wnt3a. In addition, MTT assay was performed to investigate the effect of WD‐aptamer on cell proliferation.

Results

WD‐aptamer penetrated the cell, affected Wnt signaling, and increased β‐catenin expression, which plays an important role in signaling. Additionally, WD‐aptamer induced HFDPC proliferation.

Conclusion

CXXC5‐associated negative feedback of Wnt/β‐catenin signaling can be regulated by interfering with CXXC5–Dvl1 interaction.
Paleogene–Neogene environmental evolution and the uplift‐sedimentation response of the NE Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Cui Jiawei , Li Zhenhong , Dong Xiaopeng , Kou Linlin , Sun Junyi , Huang Ting
Published: May 2023

There are controversies about the climate evolution and driving mechanism around the Tibetan Plateau since the late Cenozoic. To better understand this issue, the Ningnan Basin on the north‐eastern margin of the Tibetan Plateau was taken as the research object. The Ningnan Basin was arid at 23–18 Ma under the influence of global climate change. The extensive deformation indicates that the uplift of the Tibetan Plateau and intracontinental pushing has influenced the Ningnan Basin and the paleoclimate began to be affected in 23 Ma. During the period of 17–13 Ma, the Ningnan Basin was warm and humid and was still under the influence of global climate change. During 8.5–8 Ma, the environment suddenly became dry. At the same time, the Tibetan Plateau was intensely uplifted, which strengthened the winter winds and weakened the summer winds, resulting in the aridity of the Ningnan Basin.
High light triggers flavonoid and polysaccharide synthesis through DoHY5‐dependent signaling in Dendrobium officinale
Authors: Li Dongxiao , Ye Guangying , Li Jie , Lai Zhenqin , Ruan Siyou , Qi Qi , Wang Zaihua , Duan Sujuan , Jin Hong‐Lei , Wang Hong‐Bin
Published: May 2023

Dendrobium officinale is edible and has medicinal and ornamental functions. Polysaccharides and flavonoids, including anthocyanins, are important components of D. officinale that largely determine the nutritional quality and consumer appeal. There is a need to study the molecular mechanisms regulating anthocyanin and polysaccharide biosynthesis to enhance D. officinale quality and its market value. Here, we report that high light (HL) induced the accumulation of polysaccharides, particularly mannose, as well as anthocyanin accumulation, resulting in red stems. Metabolome and transcriptome analyses revealed that most of the flavonoids showed large changes in abundance, and flavonoid and polysaccharide biosynthesis was significantly activated under HL treatment. Interestingly, DoHY5 expression was also highly induced. Biochemical analyses demonstrated that DoHY5 directly binds to the promoters of DoF3H1 (involved in anthocyanin biosynthesis), DoGMPP2, and DoPMT28 (involved in polysaccharide biosynthesis) to activate their expression, thereby promoting anthocyanin and polysaccharide accumulation in D. officinale stems. DoHY5 silencing decreased flavonoid‐ and polysaccharide‐related gene expression and reduced anthocyanin and polysaccharide accumulation, whereas DoHY5 overexpression had the opposite effects. Notably, naturally occurring red‐stemmed D. officinale plants similarly have high levels of anthocyanin and polysaccharide accumulation and biosynthesis gene expression. Our results reveal a previously undiscovered role of DoHY5 in co‐regulating anthocyanin and polysaccharide biosynthesis under HL conditions, improving our understanding of the mechanisms regulating stem color and determining nutritional quality in D. officinale. Collectively, our results propose a robust and simple strategy for significantly increasing anthocyanin and polysaccharide levels and subsequently improving the nutritional quality of D. officinale.
Multicenter evaluation of a high‐throughput microarray platform for extensive red blood cell phenotyping and antibody screening
Authors: Martinaud Christophe , Hermenegildo‐López Ygor Neil , Gallego Irene Lucea , Fleuriot Estelle , Barea‐García Luisa Maria
Published: May 2023

Background

Blood typing and antibody screening are key elements of transfusion safety. However, available single platform, flexible, and affordable technologies are limited, especially for extended phenotyping. Microarray‐based technology allows for this extended phenotyping with the flexibility of piecemeal analysis.

Study Design and Methods

This study was conducted in three blood donor laboratories to determine the performance of a high‐throughput microarray‐based system for ABO, RH1‐RH5, and KEL1 typing, ABS and extended phenotyping (RH8, KEL2&3, FY1&2, JK1, MNS3). Specimens were tested simultaneously on local platforms and on the microarray‐based system. When discrepancies were identified, resolver testing were performed.

Results

In total, 4862 blood samples were tested for standard phenotype, 4257 for antibody screening and 2194 for extended phenotype. Results were available for 92.12% of the samples. The overall percent agreements were: 100% for ABO, 99.8% for RH1, 99.24% for RH2‐5 and 99.86% for KEL1, 93.16% for antibody screening, and 99.68% for extended phenotype.

Conclusions

This microarray‐based system provides highly comparable results to current CE marked assays. The ability to continuously test 3000 microarrays in 1 day, providing simultaneously both extended RBC phenotyping and antibody detection drives laboratory efficiencies. The results of our study validate the performance of this new technology; however, the percentage of samples without results must be reduced and further analysis is required to interpret the ABS screening performances. This could constitute a real breakthrough in transfusion, making it possible in the long term, on a single platform, to carry out all the analyses necessary for the qualification of donations.
Efficacy of perioperative 2% dorzolamide ophthalmic solution for reduction of postoperative ocular hypertension in dogs following routine phacoemulsification surgery: A prospective clinical trial
Authors: Lewin Andrew C. , Hu Jennifer , Liu Chin‐Chi , Camacho Pilar , Carter Renee T.
Published: May 2023

Objective

To evaluate the efficacy of 2% dorzolamide ophthalmic solution for reduction of postoperative ocular hypertension (POH) following routine phacoemulsification surgery in dogs.

Animals Studied

Thirty one dogs (53 eyes) with naturally occurring cataracts undergoing routine phacoemulsification surgery.

Procedure(s)

A prospective, double‐masked, randomized, placebo‐controlled study design was utilized. Dogs received 2% dorzolamide ophthalmic solution or saline 1 h prior to surgery then three times daily for 21 days postoperatively in the operated eye(s). Intraocular pressure (IOP) was recorded 1 h prior to surgery and 3 h, 7 h, 22 h, 1 week and 3 weeks postoperatively. Statistical analyses were performed using chi‐squared and Mann–WhitneyUtest with a significance level ofp < .05.

Results

Postoperative ocular hypertension (IOP ≥25 mmHg, <24 h after surgery) occurred in 28/53 (52.8%) eyes. There was significant reduction in the incidence of POH for eyes receiving dorzolamide (10/26 (38.4%) eyes) versus eyes receiving placebo (18/27 (66.7%) eyes) (p = .0384). Animals were followed for a median of 163 days after surgery. Thirty‐seven (37/53 (69.8%)) eyes were visual at final examination and 3/53 (5.7%) globes were enucleated postoperatively. At last follow‐up, there was no difference in visual status (p = .9280), need for topical IOP lowering medication (p = .8319) or incidence of glaucoma (p = .5880) based on treatment group.

Conclusions

Perioperative administration of topical 2% dorzolamide reduced the incidence of POH after phacoemulsification in the dogs studied. However, this was not associated with differences in visual outcome, incidence of glaucoma or need for IOP‐lowering medications.
A universal energy response model for determining the energy nonlinearity and resolution of $$e^\pm $$ and $$\gamma $$ in liquid scintillator detectors
Authors: Yu Miao , Wen Liangjian , Zhou Xiang , Luo Wuming
Published: May 2023

Energy nonlinearity and resolution in liquid scintillator (LS) detectors are correlated and particle-dependent. A unified energy response model for liquid scintillator detectors has been presented in details. This model has advanced a data-driven approach to calibrate the particle-dependent energy response, using both the monoenergetic $$\gamma $$
γ
-ray sources and the continuous $$\beta $$
β
spectra of $$^\textrm{12}\textrm{B}$$

12

B

and Michel $$e^-$$

e
-

induced by cosmic muons. Monte Carlo studies have demonstrated the effectiveness and robustness of the proposed model, in particular, the positron energy resolution can be extracted in the absence of positron sources. This work will provide a feasible approach of simultaneous calibration of energy nonlinearity and resolution for the running and future LS detectors.
Gödel-type universes in energy–momentum-squared gravity
Authors: Canuto Á. J. C. , Santos A. F.
Published: May 2023

In this paper, a modification of general relativity is considered. It consists of generalizing the Lagrangian of matter in a non-linear way, that is, replacing the curvature scalar R by a function $$f(R,T_{\mu \nu } T^{\mu \nu } )$$

f
(
R
,

T

μ
ν

T

μ
ν

)

, where $$T_{\mu \nu }$$

T

μ
ν

is the energy–momentum tensor. The main objective is to investigate the issue of causality in this gravitational model. To study the causality and/or its violation the Gödel-type solutions are used. For such development, different matter contents are chosen. A critical radius, beyond which causality is violated, is calculated. It is shown that both causal and non-causal solutions are allowed.
Quantum Markov semigroup for open quantum system interacting with quantum Bernoulli noises
Authors: Zhang Lu , Wang Caishi
Published: May 2023

Quantum Bernoulli noises (QBNs) refer to the annihilation and creation operators acting on the space [Formula: see text] of square integrable Bernoulli functionals, which satisfy the canonical anti-commutation relation (CAR) in equal time. In this paper, we consider the Markov evolution of an open quantum system interacting with QBNs. Let [Formula: see text] be the system space of an open quantum system interacting with QBNs. Then [Formula: see text] just describes the coupled quantum system. In the framework of [Formula: see text], we first construct a quantum Markov semigroup that respects the interactions between the system and QBNs, and then we prove that under some mild conditions the semigroup has faithful invariant states. To support our main results mentioned above, we prove several technical propositions and theorems about operators defined in [Formula: see text]. Some other results are also obtained.
Green’s function for solving initial-boundary value problem of evolutionary partial differential equations
Authors: Jiang Jin-Cheng , Kuo Hung-Wen , Liang Meng-Hao
Published: May 2023

We propose a new method to solve the initial-boundary value problem for hyperbolic-dissipative partial differential equations (PDEs) based on the spirit of LY algorithm [T.-P. Liu and S.-H. Yu, Dirichlet–Neumann kernel for hyperbolic-dissipative system in half-space, Bull. Inst. Math. Acad. Sin. 7 (2012) 477–543]. The new method can handle more general domains than that of LYs’. We convert the evolutionary PDEs into the elliptic PDEs by the Laplace transformation. Using the Laplace transformation of the fundamental solutions of the evolutionary PDEs and the image method, we can construct Green’s functions for the corresponding elliptic PDEs. Finally, we obtain Green’s functions for the evolutionary PDEs by inverting the Laplace transformation. As a consequence, we establish Green’s functions for some basic PDEs such as the heat equation, the wave equation and the damped wave equation, in a half space and a quarter plane with various boundary conditions. On the other hand, the structure of hyperbolic-dissipative PDEs means its fundamental solution is non-symestric and hence the image method does not work. We utilize the idea of Laplace wave train introduced by Liu and Yu in [Navier–Stokes equations in gas dynamics: Greens function, singularity and well-posedness, Comm. Pure Appl. Math. 75(2) (2022) 223–348] to generalize the image method. Combining this with the notions of Rayleigh surface wave operators introduced in [S. J. Deng, W. K. Wang and S.-H. Yu, Green’s functions of wave equations in [Formula: see text], Arch. Ration. Mech. Anal. 216 (2015) 881–903], we are able to obtain the complete representations of Green’s functions for the convection-diffusion equation and the drifted wave equation in a half space with various boundary conditions.
IMPACTS OF CONSUMER EXPENDITURE PATTERNS ON SUBJECTIVE WELL-BEING IN CHINA: EVIDENCE FROM MICROSURVEY DATA
Authors: QIU XURONG , ZENG MAOXIA , SHI MINGMING
Published: May 2023

The purpose of this study is to investigate the influence of consumer expenditure patterns, rather than categories, on subjective well-being (SWB) in China. This study adopts microsurvey data from the China Family Panel Studies (CFPS) and performs cluster analysis to form household consumer expenditure patterns for five burdens. The primary finding is that consumer expenditure patterns as well as consumer characteristics can significantly affect Chinese people’s SWB. However, the results from using consumer expenditure categories as explanatory variables are not reliable due to inconsistent results from using the amount and ratio of consumption expenditure. The conclusions regarding the influences of consumer expenditure patterns on Chinese people’s SWB are, nevertheless, robust.
A Resource Allocation Problem with Convex Resource-Dependent Processing Times Under A Two-Machine Flow Shop Environment
Authors: Choi Byung-Cheon , Lee Jun-Ho
Published: May 2023

We consider the resource allocation problem under a two-machine flow shop environment where the job sequence has been determined in advance. The resource is used to reduce the processing time that is inversely proportional to the resource consumption amount. Furthermore, there exist the lower and upper bounds on the amount of the resources consumed by each job. The objective is to minimize the makespan plus the total resource consumption cost. We show that the problem can be solved in strongly polynomial time.
A Secure and Efficient Scheme Based on Unlinkability and Anonymous Traceable Protocol for Cloud-Assisted IoT Environment
Authors: Gaur Rajkumar , Prakash Shiva , Prasad L. V. Narasimha , Kumar Sanjay , Abhishek Kumar , Guduri Manisha
Published: May 2023

The authenticity, privacy, and nonrepudiation of IoT applications are all guaranteed by the ID-Based Signature (IDBS) cryptographic technique. Digital communication presents challenges for information evaluation and removal-back transmission. Security was consequently needed in a cloud-based system to interact with the correct location or nodes. Furthermore, in a cloud-based environment, it is difficult to track a group’s key escrow and secret key generations. We improve group signature security, an identity-based method, to address these problems. The strategy asks a member to sign documents on the group’s behalf. The group manager (GM) membership is controlled by two protocols: join and revoke. The GM may utilize the Open protocol to determine who signed a communication. The classic ID-Based Group Signature (IDBGS) method uses a public-key generator (PKG). This method is founded on difficult mathematical ideas like the computational Diffie–Hellman assumptions. Based on the ID-Based GS system, this technique enhances group members’ identity, legitimacy and visibility. The public key size and signature depend on the group members’ autonomy. The improved method guarantees realistic confirmation of nodes and fortifies them against forgery attempts. This solution promises faster execution and increased dependability for secure nodes.
Front-End Rectifier of Self-Compensation Matching with Parasitic Cancellation for Dual-Band RFID Tag
Authors: Liu Xianming , Chang Yinghui , Wu Weikang , Zhou Zhixin , Luo Hongyin , Xiao Wenrun , Huang Chao , Guo Donghui
Published: May 2023

This paper presents an innovative cross-coupled differential drive rectifier for dual-band Radio frequency identification (RFID) tags. A self-compensating rectifier with enhanced power-conversion efficiency (PCE) at low and high RF power is proposed. The proposed rectifier utilizes a self-compensating circuit, the extra two cross-couple transistors, to increase the gate voltage of transistors to control the conduction of the rectifying transistors. In order to adapt high frequency (HF) and ultrahigh frequency (UHF) rectification, the matching circuit is designed with parasitic cancellation technology. Moreover, the cascading power management circuits are added to generate a stable output voltage. The multi-standard rectifier is designed and simulated in [Formula: see text] CMOS process. The simulated result shows that the proposed three-stage rectifier achieves a PCE 74% (at [Formula: see text] load) when receiving a 915[Formula: see text]MHz signal with average power of [Formula: see text]. Moreover, the maximum efficiency achieves 56% at HF 13.56[Formula: see text]MHz, and the final output voltage can be stabilized at a specific voltage of 1.052[Formula: see text]V.
Backstepping-Based Six Degrees of Freedom Adaptive Control for Spacecraft Tracking a Noncooperative Target
Authors: Zhu Zhihao , Gao Zhi , Guo Yu
Published: May 2023

In this paper, the six degrees of freedom adaptive tracking control for chaser spacecraft with uncertainty and disturbance to approach a noncooperative target are studied. The system equations with coupled relative translation and relative rotation are modeled. Considering the unknown inertia uncertainties and state-dependant disturbances, a backstepping-based adaptive tracking control law is developed to achieve high-precision proximity operations between chaser and noncooperative target. The unknown inertia and disturbance are estimated by adaptive update laws. The properties of the developed control law are discussed through the comparison of simulation results.
A Current-Fed ZVS High Step-Up Boost Converter Integrated with Isolated SEPIC Converter
Authors: Jalili Jalil , Mirtalaei Sayyed Mohammad Mehdi , Mohammadi Mohammad Reza , Majidi Behrooz
Published: May 2023

In this paper, the combination of a high step-up boost converter with extended voltage multiplier cell and isolated SEPIC converter with a series output module is presented. Since these converters use the same current source in their inputs, they can share the common parts, so the structure of the proposed converter is simple. In this converter, the high frequency transformer used in the SEPIC converter and the inductor of the extended voltage multiplier cell are coupled, so the volume of the magnetic parts is reduced. In addition, an active-clamp circuit is used to solve the problem of leakage inductor and achieve to Zero Voltage Switching (ZVS) turn on/off for switches and ZCS for diodes. Compared to its high step-up counterpart, the proposed converter has the following: (1) distributed voltage stress on the diodes and voltage of the output capacitors are fair. (2) Higher voltage gain. (3) Voltage stresses on the diodes are lower and the reverse-recovery problem of the diodes is eliminated. (4) Minimum root mean square (RMS) leakage inductor current. The operational principle and characteristics of the proposed converter are presented, and in order to verify the proposed converter, a 200 W, 20–400 V prototype converter is implemented and experimental results are provided.