bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Microwave dielectric characterization and densification mechanism analysis of CaO‐B2O3‐SiO2 glass–ceramic/Al2O3 composites for LTCC applications
Authors: Xiong Zilong , Xue Wenzhuo , Li Mujun , Tan Feihu , Chen Yupeng , Yu Hongyu
Published: September 2023

In this study, nine component points were designed based on a CaO‐B2O3‐SiO2 (CBS) glass system with a high boron content, and CBS glass/Al2O3 composites were developed for low‐temperature co‐fired ceramic (LTCC) applications. Furthermore, the densification process, phase compositions, microstructures, and properties were investigated. The results indicated that the softening of glass and interfacial reaction between the glass and Al2O3 were the two most important factors affecting LTCC's densification process. The real‐time shrinkage rate of LTCC during sintering was simulated using the thermal shrinkage curve and combined with DTA and X‐ray diffraction. It was proven that the formation of the CaAl2(BO3)O phase contributed to the reduction in glass viscosity and promoted the formation of a dense structure. The LTCC composite with 30 vol% glass sintered at 850°C exhibited a coefficient of thermal expansion of 4.55–6.35 ppm/◦C, εr of 3.5–5.0, and a minimum tan δ of 0.0018 at 15 GHz. Therefore, these properties make the CBS–LTCC more suitable for high‐frequency applications.
The impact of methoxypropylamino cyclohexenylidene ethoxyethylcyanoacetate (MCE) UVA1 filter on pigmentary and ageing signs: An outdoor prospective 8‐week randomized, intra‐individual comparative study in two populations of different genetic background
Authors: Flament F. , Mercurio D. G. , Muller B. , Li J. , Tricaud C. , Bernerd F. , Roudot A. , Candau D. , Passeron T.
Published: September 2023

Background

Of all ultraviolet (UV) radiations reaching the earth, UVA1 rays have a higher potential of penetrating and producing clinically harmful consequences. While UV radiations up to 370 nm are well‐blocked by current sunscreens, a photoprotection gap remains for the UVA1 wavelengths between 370 and 400 nm.

Objective

This study was to assess under outdoor summer conditions the impact on pigmentation and skin ageing signs of a protection against UVA1 using methoxypropylamino cyclohexenylidene ethoxyethylcyanoacetate (MCE) filter added to a reference SPF50 sunscreen, in comparison with the same sunscreen without the MCE filter.

Materials and Methods

This prospective randomized comparative intra‐individual study was conducted in 113 women in Brazil and China. Subjects had their face and two forearms exposed twice‐daily to a 1‐h outdoor sunlight exposure over 8 weeks. Before exposure, the SPF50 sunscreen containing 3% MCE was applied on one half‐face and one forearm and the same reference product without MCE on the other half‐face and forearm. Primary study endpoint was skin colour changes (chromametry). Other endpoints included expert panel grading of pigmentation and facial skin ageing, and naïve panel assessment of facial skin radiance and homogeneity.

Results

After 8 weeks, the skin was darker on both forearms but the increase in sun‐induced pigmentation was smaller with the SPF50/MCE sunscreen. Expert panel evaluations showed no change in severity scores for pigmentation and a decreased severity scores for facial skin ageing in areas protected with the SPF50/MCE product: severity scores in areas protected with the SPF50 alone were either increased (pigmentation) or unchanged (skin ageing). Naïve panel evaluations of skin radiance and homogeneity showed statistically significant superiority of the SPF50/MCE product.

Conclusion

Overall, this study demonstrates that a protection with the SPF50/MCE sunscreen significantly reduces pigmentation and ageing signs compared to the same SPF50 sunscreen.
Divided we fall? The effect of manufacturing decline on the social capital of US communities
Authors: Diemer Andreas
Published: September 2023

What happens to local communities when manufacturing disappears? I examine changes in associational density over nearly two decades as a proxy for social capital in US labor markets. Exploiting plausibly exogenous trade‐induced shocks to local manufacturing activity, I test whether deindustrialization is associated with greater or lower organizational membership. I uncover a robust negative relationship between the two variables, particularly acute in rural and mostly‐White areas. My findings, however, are sensitive to measurement: There are no clearly discernible effects of deindustrialization on social capital when I consider alternative proxies for the outcome. To reconcile these results, I present evidence suggesting that economic adversity may induce a qualitative, rather than quantitative, change in social capital.
Students' learning in theory‐based simulation: A socio‐material study
Authors: Chan Engle Angela , Chung Betty , Chang Katherine , Hui Alison , Rafferty Anne Marie
Published: September 2023

Background

Simulation‐based education (SBE) is crucial to prepare nursing students prior to their clinical learning experience. Theory‐based simulation learning is increasingly important for analysing how students learn. This study describes and analyses how nursing students learn through simulation in the context of palliative care communication under a socio‐material approach and explores the transfer of their knowledge and skills from simulation to clinical practice.

Methods

Twenty‐seven final‐year nursing students in six groups participated in two simulated scenarios, followed by a debriefing and post‐clinical focus groups to capture their reflections and learning. Fourteen of them joined the post‐clinical focus groups after completing their clinical placements. Video recordings of the simulation, and the audio recordings from the debriefing, and post‐clinical focus groups were transcribed and coded based on the human and non‐human elements that were observed. These were triangulated with data collected through team participant observations, an analysis of the existing syllabi and curriculum, and a participant mapping exercise after the simulation. These various data sources illustrate how student learning and reflections took place.

Results

The three themes of student learning derived from the results and analysis were (1) students' expanded learning of health care communication through a socio‐material approach in the context of palliative care; 2) students' discovery of the diverse and complex relations and interactions between humans and materials and (3) students' new perspectives on health care communication and the transfer of knowledge and skills through a socio‐material approach in clinical practice.

Conclusions

This study highlights how SBE can be further expanded using a socio‐material approach to prepare students to learn beyond standardised and cognitively driven approaches and procedures. Student learning demonstrates that SBE may develop beyond high fidelity and standardisation to leave room for emergent learning and increased awareness in learning for students and teachers to optimise learning outcomes and competence.
Does price of oil and inflation have an impact on the GDP of Africa's largest net oil importers? Evidence from a non‐linear heterogeneous panel ARDL
Authors: Saidu M. T.
Published: September 2023

The article explores the non‐linear relationship between oil prices, inflation, and GDP in eight African countries that import oil from other nations. The study uses various econometric techniques, including symmetric and asymmetric dynamic panel ARDL models, mean group, and pooled mean group approaches, to examine quarterly data from 1983 Q2 to 2020 Q4. The analysis looks at both short‐term and long‐term variations to measure the positive and negative effects of oil prices and inflation on GDP. The findings reveal that the variables are related, but there are significant non‐linearities in the long run. While both rising oil prices and inflation have a positive impact on GDP in most instances, lower oil prices and inflation might have a neutral or negative impact.
Development and psychometric analysis: Fluoride varnish parent attitude, belief scale1
Authors: Tayhan Ali , Çetinkaya Aynur
Published: September 2023

Objective

To develop a scale to determine parents’ attitudes and beliefs regarding fluoride varnish.

Design and methods

This study had a cross‐sectional design and was conducted between 2019 and 2021. A total of 810 parents were included in the study sample. Exploratory factor analysis (EFA), confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), discriminant validity, and convergent validity methods were used to estimate the scale validity. For reliability, the Cronbach alpha coefficient, item‐total correlation coefficients, and test–retest method were used.

Results

As a result of psychometric analysis, the scale was found to have a three‐factor structure. The factor loads of the items were between 0.838 and 0.715. The three‐factor construct showed a good fit in confirmatory factor analysis (X2(41): 110.06, p <.001; RMSEA: 0.065; RMSR, 0.02; GFI, 0.95; and NFI, 0.94). Cronbach's α coefficient on the scale was 0.85. The item‐total correlation of the scale was found to be between 0.355 and 0.626. The test–retest intra‐class correlation coefficient of the scale was 0.72.

Conclusions

This study suggests that the developed scale is a reliable tool to evaluate the attitudes and beliefs of parents toward fluoride varnish. It is thought that the scale will make a contribution to public health.
Overexpression of JsFLS5 in calli improves salinity tolerance by maintaining active oxygen balance and reducing Na+ toxicity in Juglans sigillata
Authors: Wei Rong , Hao Zhenkun , Huang Dong , Wang Ruipu , Pan Xuejun , Zhang Wen'e
Published: September 2023

The escalating global climate change significantly threatens plant growth, development, and production through salinity stress. Flavonoids, a crucial category of secondary metabolites, have been extensively studied for their role in modulating plant growth and development mechanisms in the face of biological and abiotic stress. The flavonol synthetase (FLS) gene plays a key role in the biosynthesis and accumulation of flavonoids. To investigate the correlation between salt tolerance and flavonol synthesis, JsFLS5 was overexpressed in the callus of Juglans sigillata cv. “Qianhe‐7.” This study shows that the upregulation of JsFLS5 significantly elevates the overall flavonoid content by modulating the expression of genes associated with flavonoid synthesis under salinity stress conditions. Additionally, the overexpressing callus exhibited enhanced resistance to salt stress compared to the wild‐type callus, as evidenced by reduced levels of reactive oxygen species accumulation, electrolyte leakage, and malondialdehyde content in the overexpressing callus relative to the wild type (WT). Moreover, the overexpressing callus showed higher antioxidant enzyme activity and a more efficient ascorbic acid‐glutathione cycle. Furthermore, the concentration of Na+ in the overexpressing callus was lower than WT, resulting in a decreased Na+/K+ ratio. These findings suggest that JsFLS5 overexpression in calli effectively mitigates the oxidative damage induced by osmotic stress and reduces Na+ toxicity by enhancing flavonoid synthesis under salt stress conditions. Consequently, this study offers a novel perspective for comprehending the role of JsFLS5 in the response to abiotic stress in J. sigillata.
Lifeworld hermeneutics: An approach and a method for research on existential issues in caring science
Authors: Palmér Lina , Nyström Maria , Karlsson Katarina
Published: September 2023

Background and aim

The aim of the present article was to elaborate on a research approach and method called ‘lifeworld hermeneutics’. Significant to lifeworld hermeneutics is that interpretation is the main methodological instrument for explaining and understanding existential research questions and lived experiences. From a caring science perspective, this often refers to research that aims to gain a deeper understanding of existential phenomena and issues, such as existential meaning of health, well‐being, homelessness, lostness, suffering and ageing, as well as what it means to experience unhealthiness and illness, the need for care, and caring that responds to such needs.

Design

Theoretical paper.

Result

The article briefly covers ontology and epistemology that clarifies the meaning and importance of a lifeworld hermeneutic attitude. This is followed by suggestions for how to perform a lifeworld hermeneutic study, expressed in relation to methodological principles for the interpretation, validation and structuring of interpretations. Thereafter, follow reflections on how to use theoretical or philosophical support to develop and deepen existential interpretations. The findings of lifeworld hermeneutic research consist of existential interpretations where the researcher, with an open and pliable attitude towards the phenomenon and the aim of the study, clarifies, explains and suggests new ways of understanding participants’ lived experiences; the researcher should maintain such an attitude towards their understanding of the phenomenon as well.

Conclusion

The lifeworld hermeneutical approach and method described in this article makes it possible to further deepen the understanding and knowledge about existential issues that is relevant for caring and caring science.
Ultrasound skills teaching in UK medical education: A systematic review
Authors: McCormick Emer , Flanagan Brendan , Johnson Christopher D. , Sweeney Eva M.
Published: September 2023

Background

Sonography is increasingly integrated into medical curricula to prepare students for clinical practice. In 2022, we conducted a systematic review to explore the degree to which ultrasound skill acquisition is incorporated into undergraduate medial education in the United Kingdom.

Methods

A search of Medline and Embase databases from 2003 to 2022 identified 15 relevant articles. Studies were included if they described ultrasound skills training in UK undergraduate medical education.

Findings

A range of teaching methods were reported including didactic demonstrations, hands‐on experience and combinations thereof. Portable machines were more common than cart‐based machines, and most demonstrators were ultrasound‐trained clinicians. Ultrasound teaching is well received, with improvements in confidence using ultrasound, motivation to learn anatomy and retention of knowledge.

Discussion

Obstacles to integration were noted including training, cost, curriculum time constraints and the issue of incidental pathology. One study demonstrated that anatomists with appropriate training could provide ultrasound teaching, reducing the need for clinicians or sonographers. Costs may be reduced by renting machines or purchasing portable/hand‐held devices. Allowing access to machines during student's free time may address scheduling difficulties. A final recommendation is to pre‐scan volunteers prior to the teaching session.

Conclusion

We have outlined approaches to ultrasound skills teaching and the inherent hurdles to this, as well as potential solutions. This may aid educators wishing to augment their curricula. Although there are relatively few studies from the United Kingdom, there is consensus that students enjoy the incorporation of ultrasound practice and believe it complements existing teaching, especially in a small group setting.
Medical students' honesty in summative reflective writing: A rapid review
Authors: Truykov Lyuben
Published: September 2023

Background

Reflection is a highly individual metacognitive process of contextualising experiences in our environment. It is a core skill for medical students, as it helps future practitioners tackle complex scenarios. It is subject to assessment, which goes against the philosophical underpinnings of reflection, thus risking students only emulating reflective practice without actually engaging with it. We sought to provide an overview of the current literature on medical students' views of summative reflective writing.

Methods

A rapid review of literature was carried out. Keywords were searched in six databases; items were retrieved and screened against the inclusion/exclusion criteria. Ten papers were included in the final review. Their quality was appraised by utilising the CASP checklist tools.

Findings

Seven primary research papers addressed honesty of reflective practice in a variety of different settings. Students were found to ‘game the system’ by tailoring their reflections to meet the assessment criteria. One paper postulated that students are honest in their reflections. Three expert opinions showed congruent views on the need for diversification of reflective practice in medical school and going back to the definition of reflection.

Conclusion

This rapid review provides an account of medical students' views of summative reflective writing within the literature. Instrumentalising reflection can lead to students only emulating reflective practice, although not engaging with deeper learning. More primary qualitative studies exploring medical students' views of assessment of reflection would better detail the problem of emulated reflective practice.
Project-Based Learning and Perceived Overlap of Self-Regulation and Project-based Learning Techniques for Students with Adverse Childhood Experiences: A Case Study
Authors: Foster Manda S. , Shriner Michael
Published: September 2023

The purpose of this qualitative case study was to explore the perception of educators transitioning from a traditional learning environment to a project-based learning (PBL). Teachers’ perception of student self-regulation in ages from 8 to 17 were captured. Data were collected from 1-1 interviews with five participants with Missouri teacher certification ranging in grade levels from elementary to high school working with a total of 175 students within a mental health residential school throughout Missouri. Additional data were collected from daily logs, participant interviews, behavioral logs, and regulation logs from classrooms of students with the same background as teacher participants over the last four school years, 2018-22, of teachers who have taught project-based learning units. Daily logs, regulation logs, behavioral logs, and participant interview responses were manually coded twice and then coded a third time using electronic coding via NVivo to ensure bias from Dr Foster was not present. This study supports using project-based learning units with students who have a history of  adverse childhood experiences (ACEs). While study findings support the teacher perception that project-based learning activities increase self-regulation from interview responses, regulation logs, and daily logs data could not triangulate this perceived relationship. These findings support the importance of relationships with students with ACEs during PBL to increase self-regulation.
Experimental Investigation on Cross-Impingement Characteristics Under Various Biodiesel-Butanol Blended Proportions and Ambient Conditions
Authors: Zhang Qiankun , Wu Haoqin , Mi Shijie , Lu Xingcai
Published: September 2023

The cross-impingement phenomenon always appears in several diesel engines with two or more injectors. Meanwhile, the application of biofuels has a great potential in realizing clean and efficient combustion. Therefore, the investigation aims to explore the cross-impingement characteristics at small (10%), middle (30%), and large (50%) biodiesel-butanol blended proportions. Experiments are conducted in a constant-volume combustion chamber with twin injectors. Spray images are captured by optical diagnosis techniques. Several macroscopic parameters are obtained, including diffusion length, collision width, and spray area. Results show that the cross-impingement accelerates the droplet interaction, and the spray presents a “fan-shaped” behavior after the collision, which promotes a more uniform mixing between the fuel and ambient gas. As the twin sprays collide at 120 deg, the vapor-phase vertical diffusion rate is close to the vertical component of the single spray, and the horizontal diffusion rate is about 1.2 times the vertical diffusion rate. The cross-impingement is likely to decrease the spray-wall impingement owing to a change in the diffusion direction. At various blended fuels, the biodiesel blended with 30% n-butanol displays the smallest liquid-phase diffusion length, width, and area. The further increase in the n-butanol mixing ratio leads to larger liquid-phase parameters. Contrary to the biodiesel blended with 10% n-butanol, the biodiesel blended with a higher proportion of n-butanol presents faster vapor-phase diffusion, which promotes fuel-gas mixing.
The Effect of Methane–Ammonia and Methane–Hydrogen Blends on Ignition and Light-Around in an Annular Combustor
Authors: Kwah Yi Hao , Wiseman Samuel , Dawson James R.
Published: September 2023

The use of hydrogen and ammonia in gas turbines, either alone or blended with natural gas, poses various technical challenges for combustion systems, including ignition. Depending on the fuel composition, the laminar flame speed and the ratio of unburned to burned gas density (dilatation ratio) of hydrogen and ammonia flames can be well outside the range seen in natural gas flames. Previous studies in annular combustion chambers have provided evidence of the importance of these properties in determining the ignition dynamics including light-around times. So far, these studies have mostly considered hydrocarbon fuels, have been limited to only a few runs, and have not yet systematically investigated variations in the dilatation ratio and the flame speed but rather have considered them as a lumped parameter. To investigate these effects in more detail, experiments characterizing the light-around times were carried out on an atmospheric annular combustor in which the dilatation ratio and the laminar flame speed was independently varied. This was achieved by varying the equivalence ratio and employing a variety of different hydrocarbon fuels (ethylene, propane, and methane) and fuel blends of methane–ammonia and methane–hydrogen. Light-around times were evaluated from global chemiluminescence measurements obtained using an azimuthal array of photomultipliers placed round the combustor chamber as well as high speed imaging. To improve statistical certainty, more than 3000 ignition and light-around times were measured with 30 repetitions obtained for each operating condition. To provide some insight into the light-around dynamics in specific cases, 900 of the 3000 sets included high-speed OH* chemiluminescence images. Light-around times for premixed pure hydrocarbon flames showed a similar dependence on the laminar flame speed as reported in previous studies. For the range of ammonia fuel blends investigated, an increase in laminar flame speed leads to a predictable increase in the flame propagation speed, as in the case of hydrocarbon fuel. Furthermore, collapse of this dependence for all blends could be achieved when corrected for an effective Lewis number, noting that all Lewis numbers for these blends were above unity. However, for hydrogen fuel blends, a decrease in dilatation ratio was found to decrease the light-around time counter to existing experimental results on the ignition of hydrocarbon fuels for which we currently do not have an explanation.
Mistuning Sensitivity of a Fan Bladed-Disk With Geometrical Nonlinearities
Authors: Quaegebeur Samuel , Thouverez Fabrice
Published: September 2023

In order to decrease their environmental impact, turbo-engine manufacturers tend to increase the span of fan blades while maintaining a slender profile. This design leads to more pronounced geometrical nonlinear effects. Computing the frequency response function of such structures is complicated due to the size of their associated finite element model. Classical substructuring approaches are no longer efficient to reduce the size of the problem as all the nodes of the system must be kept since they experience nonlinear behaviors. Different reduction methodologies have been defined in the past decades to tackle such nonlinear systems. Among these strategies, the direct normal form (DNF) extends the theory of normal form to finite element models. This methodology is here applied to a single blade model. Based on the assumption of a fairly rigid disk and the cyclic symmetric properties, a full cyclic symmetric reduced-order model is computed. In this work, this methodology is extended to account for random mistuning. Such a strategy allows to perform, for instance, fast parametric studies. This paper studies the sensitivity of the random mistuning on a nonlinear open rotor system in order to help turbo-engineers in their design phase. Three ranges of the excitation level are studied. At a low level of excitation, the system is close to the linear case. For higher forcing amplitude, a high amplification factor (AF) due to the merge of an isolated branch is observed, which is detrimental for the structure. For the last range (containing the highest forcing amplitudes), the nonlinearities are highly activated, and low values of the amplification factor are obtained due to the spread of the vibrational energy over the frequency range.
Eggerthella lenta
augments preclinical autoantibody production and metabolic shift mimicking senescence in arthritis
Authors: Balakrishnan Baskar , Luckey David , Wright Kerry , Davis John M. , Chen Jun , Taneja Veena
Published: September 2023

Although the etiology of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is unknown, a strong genetic predisposition and the presence of preclinical antibodies before the onset of symptoms is documented. An expansion of
Eggerthella lenta
is associated with severe disease in RA. Here, using a humanized mouse model of collagen-induced arthritis, we determined the impact of
E. lenta
abundance on RA severity. Naïve mice gavaged with
E. lenta
produce preclinical rheumatoid factor and, when induced for arthritis, develop severe disease. The augmented antibody response was much higher in female mice, and among patients with RA, women had higher average load of
E. lenta
. Expansion of
E. lenta
increased CXCL5 and CD4 T cells, and both interleukin-17– and interferon-γ–producing B cells. Further,
E. lenta
gavage caused gut dysbiosis and decline in amino acids and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide with an increase in microbe-dependent bile acids and succinyl carnitine causing systemic senescent-like inflammation.
MAVI1, an endoplasmic reticulum–localized microprotein, suppresses antiviral innate immune response by targeting MAVS on mitochondrion
Authors: Shi Tao-tao , Huang Ying , Li Ying , Dai Xiang-long , He Yao-hui , Ding Jian-cheng , Ran Ting , Shi Yang , Yuan Quan , Li Wen-juan , Liu Wen
Published: September 2023

Pattern recognition receptor–mediated innate immunity is critical for host defense against viruses. A growing number of coding and noncoding genes are found to encode microproteins. However, the landscape and functions of microproteins in responsive to virus infection remain uncharacterized. Here, we systematically identified microproteins that are responsive to vesicular stomatitis virus infection. A conserved and endoplasmic reticulum–localized membrane microprotein, MAVI1 (microprotein in antiviral immunity 1), was found to interact with mitochondrion-localized MAVS protein and inhibit MAVS aggregation and type I interferon signaling activation. The importance of MAVI1 was highlighted that viral infection was attenuated and survival rate was increased in
Mavi1-
knockout mice. A peptide inhibitor targeting the interaction between MAVI1 and MAVS activated the type I interferon signaling to defend viral infection. Our findings uncovered that microproteins play critical roles in regulating antiviral innate immune responses, and targeting microproteins might represent a therapeutic avenue for treating viral infection.
Warming temperatures exacerbate groundwater depletion rates in India
Authors: Bhattarai Nishan , Lobell David B. , Balwinder-Singh  , Fishman Ram , Kustas William P. , Pokhrel Yadu , Jain Meha
Published: September 2023

Climate change will likely increase crop water demand, and farmers may adapt by applying more irrigation. Understanding the extent to which this is occurring is of particular importance in India, a global groundwater depletion hotspot, where increased withdrawals may further jeopardize groundwater resources. Using historical data on groundwater levels, climate, and crop water stress, we find that farmers have adapted to warming temperatures by intensifying groundwater withdrawals, substantially accelerating groundwater depletion rates in India. When considering increased withdrawals due to warming, we project that the rates of net groundwater loss for 2041–2080 could be three times current depletion rates, even after considering projected increases in precipitation and possible decreases in irrigation use as groundwater tables fall. These results reveal a previously unquantified cost of adapting to warming temperatures that will likely further threaten India’s food and water security over the coming decades.
The HLA advantage: Why COVID-19 benched you but not your co-worker
Authors: Saif Nisha , Griffin Gabriel K.
Published: September 2023

An HLA variant confers protective immunity against COVID-19 through cross-reactive T cells induced by seasonal coronaviruses.
AoMedA has a complex regulatory relationship with AoBrlA, AoAbaA, and AoWetA in conidiation, trap formation, and secondary metabolism in the nematode-trapping fungus
Arthrobotrys oligospora
Authors: Bai Na , Xie Meihua , Liu Qianqian , Zhu Yingmei , Yang Xuewei , Zhang Ke-Qin , Yang Jinkui
Published: September 2023

The asexual sporulation of filamentous fungi is an important mechanism for their reproduction, survival, and pathogenicity. In
Aspergillus
and several filamentous fungi, BrlA, AbaA, and WetA are the key elements of a central regulatory pathway controlling conidiation, and MedA is a developmental modifier that regulates temporal expression of central regulatory genes; however, their roles are largely unknown in nematode-trapping (NT) fungi.
Arthrobotrys oligospora
is a representative NT fungus, which can capture nematodes by producing adhesive networks (traps). Here, we characterized the function of AoMedA and three central developmental regulators (AoBrlA, AoAbaA, and AoWetA) in
A. oligospora
by gene disruption, phenotypic comparison, and multi-omics analyses, as these regulators are required for conidiation and play divergent roles in mycelial development, trap formation, lipid droplet accumulation, vacuole assembly, and secondary metabolism. A combined analysis of phenotypic traits and transcriptome showed that AoMedA and AoWetA are involved in the regulation of peroxisome, endocytosis, and autophagy. Moreover, yeast one-hybrid analysis showed that AoBrlA can regulate AoMedA, AoAbaA, and AoWetA, whereas AoMedA and AoAbaA can regulate AoWetA. Our results highlight the important roles of AoMedA, AoBrlA, AoAbaA, and AoWetA in conidiation, mycelia development, trap formation, and pathogenicity of
A. oligospora
and provide a basis for elucidating the relationship between conidiation and trap formation of NT fungi.

IMPORTANCE

Conidiation is the most common reproductive mode for many filamentous fungi and plays an essential role in the pathogenicity of fungal pathogens. Nematode-trapping (NT) fungi are a special group of filamentous fungi owing to their innate abilities to capture and digest nematodes by producing traps (trapping devices). Sporulation plays an important role in the growth and reproduction of NT fungi, and conidia are the basic components of biocontrol reagents for controlling diseases caused by plant-parasitic nematodes.
Arthrobotrys oligospora
is a well-known NT fungus and is a routinely used model fungus for probing the interaction between fungi and nematodes. In this study, the functions of four key regulators (AoMedA, AoBrlA, AoAbaA, and AoWetA) involved in conidiation were characterized in
A. oligospora
. A complex interaction between AoMedA and three central regulators was noted; these regulators are required for conidiation and trap formation and play a pleiotropic role in multiple intracellular activities. Our study first revealed the role of AoMedA and three central regulators in conidiation, trap formation, and pathogenicity of
A. oligospora
, which contributed to elucidating the regulatory mechanism of conidiation in NT fungi and helped in developing effective reagents for biocontrol of nematodes.
Complete genome sequences generated using hybrid Nanopore-Illumina assembly of two non-typical
Avibacterium paragallinarum
strains isolated from clinically normal chicken flocks
Authors: Hashish Amro , Chaves Maria , Macedo Nubia R. , Sato Yuko , Schmitz-Esser Stephan , Wilson Daniel , El-Gazzar Mohamed
Published: September 2023

We report the complete genome sequences of two non-typical
Avibacterium paragallinarum
(AP) strains isolated from chickens in the absence of clinical signs. The availability of these genomes can aid scientists in improving current diagnostics and increase our understanding of AP epidemiology and pathogenicity in chickens.
Completed genomes for
Rickettsia rickettsii
isolated from ticks and quality controlled for motility phenotype
Authors: Nock Adam M. , Clark Tina R. , Barbian Kent , Martens Craig , Hackstadt Ted
Published: September 2023

Complete genomes of
Rickettsia rickettsii
were sequenced with Illumina and PacBio technologies from low-passage isolates from ticks. These isolates were quality controlled for intact
roaM
, a regulator of actin-based motility that is negatively selected for in culture. The Sheila Smith strain was re-sequenced using the same methodology.
Supplemental Material: Valanginian climate cooling and environmental change driven by Paraná-Etendeka basalt erosion
Authors: Percival L.M.E. , al. et
Published: September 2023

Appendices S1–S2, Figure S1, and Tables S1–S2.  
Supplemental Material: Icy thermometers: Quantifying the impact of volcanic heat on glacier elevation
Authors: Howcutt Stephen , Spagnolo Matteo , al. et
Published: September 2023

Further methodological details and tabular data of analyzed volcanoes and glaciers.  
Severe pre-eclampsia as a rare cause of profound hyponatraemia
Authors: Dunphy Louise , Sadik Yasmin , Qureshi Zubair , Furara Samira
Published: September 2023

Profound hyponatraemia, defined as sodium <125 mmol/L, is a very rare complication of pre-eclampsia (PET) with a relative paucity of cases reported. Pre-eclampsia is a multisystem disorder with a maternal mortality of up to 20%. Hyponatraemia is associated with disease severity, twin pregnancy, advanced maternal age, in vitro fertilisation and HELLP (haemolysis, elevated liver enzymes and low platelets). The authors present the case of a low-risk nulliparous woman presenting with frontal headache and normal BP at 31+2weeks gestation. Laboratory investigations confirmed a sodium of 123 mmol/L. Her urine protein creatinine ratio was 322 mg/mmol. She developed PET (BP 171/100 mm Hg) refractory to pharmacological management. She underwent an emergency lower segment caesarean section and was delivered of a live neonate. The maternal serum sodium normalised within 24 hours. Hyponatraemia should be regarded as a marker of severity in the setting of pre-eclampsia and may be an indication for an expedited delivery. Prompt management is required to prevent convulsions, maternal mortality and adverse fetal outcomes.
Academic freedom under siege
Authors: Jecker Nancy S , Verweij Marcel , Ravitsky Vardit , Wangmo Tenzin , Ghaly Mohammed
Published: September 2023

This paper describes a global pattern of declining academic freedom, often driven by powerful political interference with core functions of academic communities. It argues that countering threats to academic freedom requires doubling down on ethics, specifically standards of justice and fairness in pursuing knowledge and assigning warrant to beliefs. Using the example of the selection of a Qatari university to host the 2024 World Congress of Bioethics, the authors urge fairness towards diverse groups over time and efforts to counter injustices that conferences generate.
Impact of aerobic fitness status, menstrual cycle phase, and oral contraceptive use on exercise substrate oxidation and metabolic flexibility in females
Authors: Olenick Alyssa A. , Pearson Regis C. , Jenkins Nathan T.
Published: September 2023

The influence of menstrual cycle phase and fitness status on metabolism during high-intensity interval exercise (HIIE) was assessed. Twenty-five females (24.4 (3.6) years) were categorized by normal menstrual cycle ( n = 14) vs. oral contraceptive (OC) use ( n = 11) and by aerobic fitness, high-fitness females (HFF; n = 13) vs. low-fitness females (LFF; n = 12). HIIE was four sets of four repetitions with a 3 min rest between intervals on a cycle ergometer at a power output halfway between the ventilatory threshold and V̇O2peak and performed during follicular (FOL: days 2–7 or inactive pills) and luteal phases (LUT: day ∼21 or 3rd week of active pills). Substrate oxidation was assessed via indirect calorimetry, blood lactate via finger stick, and recovery of skeletal muscle oxidative metabolism (mV̇O2) via continuous-wave near-infrared spectroscopy. HFF oxidized more fat (g·kg−1) during the full session (FOL: p = 0.050, LUT: p = 0.001), high intervals (FOL: p = 0.048, LUT: p = 0.001), low intervals (FOL: p = 0.032, LUT: p = 0.024), and LUT recovery ( p = 0.033). Carbohydrate oxidation area under the curve was greater in HFF during FOL (FOL: p = 0.049, LUT: p = 0.124). Blood lactate was lower in LFF in FOL ( p ≤ 0.05) but not in LUT. Metabolic flexibility (Δ fat oxidation g·kg−1·min−1) was greater in HFF than LFF during intervals 2–3 in FOL and 1–4 in LUT ( p ≤ 0.05). Fitness status more positively influences exercise metabolic flexibility during HIIE than cycle phase or OC use.
Hypothetical Approach to the Teaching of Trigonometric Concepts Using Cooperative Learning
Authors: Asomah Richard Kyere , Agyei Douglas Darko , Ntow Forster D. , Benning Isaac
Published: September 2023

In this paper, we propose a teaching strategy to enhance the teaching and learning of trigonometry, called cooperative teaching and learning (CTL). The proposed method stems from the need of developing a pedagogical approach that promotes understanding and interest in the learning of trigonometry based on the cooperative learning (CL). This study therefore sought to explore the features of CTL that promote students’ learning of the concepts of trigonometry. The study employed systematic review as the research approach for the collection of the data. The review analysis covered 40 research studies on a meaningful-based pedagogies that allow students to make meaning of the subject matter. The study revealed that: positive interdependence, individual accountability, promotive face-to-face interaction, social skill, and group processing characterize the features of CTL suitable for the teaching of the concept of trigonometry. The study suggests that the teaching and learning of trigonometry through the use of the features of the CTL provide students with the opportunity to actively create ideas and work through high-order trigonometric tasks. The study contends that in order to implement CTL effectively in the mathematics classroom context, the features of CTL must be conceptualized in a way that is consistent with the desired objectives of a given mathematical topic.
Emergency Volunteer Participation in the Evolutionary Game of Public Security Governance under Community Incentives
Authors: Yang Yuqi , Hong Liang
Published: September 2023

The outbreak of the COVID-19 epidemic has brought profound changes to all aspects of our society and also reflects the importance of community emergency volunteers actively participating in epidemic prevention and control in the face of unexpected public security events. As a bridge between the implementation of government policies and the masses of the community, community emergency volunteers have the characteristics of high efficiency and low cost, which has a great impact on the advancement of modern social governance. In order to motivate volunteers, the community will introduce incentive mechanisms. How does the evolutionary process of a dynamic game between volunteer engagement and community motivation change? How should communities maximize the service investment of volunteers in the game process? However, the current research rarely focuses on the role of community volunteers in the modernization of Community Governance. In order to clarify this game process, this article constructs a public safety governance incentive game model consisting of communities and emergency volunteers. Based on evolutionary game theory, we obtain the evolutionary stable equilibrium point by solving the replicator dynamic equations of all parties in the dynamic system under different constraints. Finally, some numerical examples were provided to simulate the selection of agents. The research results show that the degree of community public security risk, the degree of active involvement of volunteers, the degree of inactive involvement of volunteers, and the level of community incentives have an important impact on the enthusiasm of volunteer community service investment decision-making behavior. In addition, the choice of community incentive-volunteer service investment strategy is a dynamic process, which can converge to the ideal state under certain conditions after continuous adjustment and optimization. In addition, this study puts forward suggestions and measures conducive to the game between both sides, which can provide valuable guidance for the practice of community public security governance and the improvement of government efficiency in China.
Large Thrombus Entrapped in a Patent Foramen Ovale during Inferior Vena Cava Filter Protection for Venous Thromboembolism
Authors: Nakamura Eiji , Takagi Kazuyoshi , Saku Kousuke , Negoto Shinya , Anegawa Tomoyuki , Imai Shinichi , Otsuka Hiroyuki , Hiromatsu Shinichi , Tayama Eiki
Published: September 2023

Background. A large thrombus entrapped in the patent foramen ovale (PFO) is an extremely rare condition. Moreover, it is considered even rarer after temporary inferior vena cava filter (TIVCF) placement for the prevention of fatal pulmonary embolism due to venous thromboembolism (VTE). Case Report. A 58-year-old man presented with syncope following chest pain and dyspnea due to PE exacerbation during TIVCF protection, which then led to cardiogenic shock. Echocardiography revealed a large thrombus entrapped in the PFO, and computed tomography (CT) showed a bilateral pulmonary artery embolism. The patient was treated with open surgical embolectomy for a pulmonary artery thrombus and PFO thrombus with simultaneous closure of the PFO. The patient’s postoperative course was uneventful. Results and Conclusion. Surgical embolectomy was useful with respect to the feasibility of resection of both intracardiac thrombus and pulmonary artery thrombus performed simultaneously, contributing to the prevention of systemic embolisms, and echocardiography plays an important role for early diagnosis.
Ultraviolet A Combined with Narrow‐Band Ultraviolet B is an Effective Treatment Modality for Early Folliculotropic Mycosis Fungoides and Early Mycosis Fungoides Refractory to Narrow‐Band Ultraviolet B: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Amitay-Laish Iris , Prag Naveh Hadas , Holzman Roie , Abo Baker Ali , Raviv Adi , Friedland Rivka , Ben Amitai Dan , Reiter Ofer , David Michael , Hodak Emmilia
Published: September 2023

Background. Psoralen plus ultraviolet A (PUVA) is the preferred phototherapeutic modality for early‐stage folliculotropic mycosis fungoides (FMF), and for early‐stage non‐FMF refractory to narrow‐band ultraviolet B (NBUVB). However, PUVA has a problematic safety profile. Literature on the treatment with the combination of UVA and NBUVB for MF is sparse. Objective. To evaluate the effectiveness of UVA combined with NBUVB for early‐stage MF, specifically for FMF and NBUVB‐refractory non‐FMF, in adult and pediatric patients. Methods. A retrospective analysis was conducted for patients treated with UVA combined with NBUVB at our center, during 1/2008–8/2022. Results. The cohort included 51 patients: 35 adults and 16 pediatric patients. The overall response rate (ORR) of 39 patients with early‐FMF (25 adults and 14 children) was 95%, and the complete response (CR) was 62%. No significant differences in ORR/CR rates were noted between adult and pediatric patients. Of 12 patients with non‐FMF (10 adults and 2 children), the ORR was 83% and the CR was 50%. In 17 patients (8 FMF and 9 non‐FMF), prior NBUVB therapy resulted in partial response/stable disease; yet, UVA + NBUVB led to CR in 9 patients (4 FMF and 5 non‐FMF). Side effects were minimal. Conclusion. Combined UVA and NBUVB is a good alternative to PUVA for adult or pediatric patients with early‐stage MF , with FMF or non‐FMF refractory to NBUVB.
The Relationship between the Biofilm Genes and Antibiotic Resistance in Stenotrophomonas maltophilia
Authors: Sameni Fatemeh , Hajikhani Bahareh , Hashemi Ali , Owlia Parviz , Niakan Mohammad , Dadashi Masoud
Published: September 2023

Objectives. Today, Stenotrophomonas maltophilia (S. maltophilia) is a major opportunistic pathogen among hospitalized or immunocompromised patients. Antibiotic-resistant clinical isolates are increasing in several parts of the world. Various antibiotic-resistance and biofilm-forming genes are identified in this bacterium. Its capacity to form biofilms is an important virulence factor that may impact antibiotic-resistance patterns. In the current study, we evaluated the biofilm-formation capacity, antibiotic-resistance profile, and prevalence of biofilm-forming genes as well as antibiotic resistance genes among S. maltophilia isolates. Materials and Methods. In this cross-sectional study, 94 clinical S. maltophilia isolates were recovered from four tertiary-care hospitals in Iran between 2021 and 2022. The presence of the selected antibiotic-resistance genes and biofilm-forming genes was examined by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The ability of biofilm formation was examined by microtiter plate assay. The Kirby–Bauer disc diffusion method was used to evaluate the trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (TMP-SMX), levofloxacin, and minocycline resistance. Results. S. maltophilia is mainly isolated from bloodstream infections. Notably, 98.93% of isolates were biofilm producers, of which 19.35%, 60.22%, and 20.43% produced strong, moderate, and weak biofilm, respectively. The frequency of biofilm genes was 100%, 97.88%, 96.80%, and 75.53% for spgM, rmlA, smf-1, and rpfF, respectively. Isolates with the genotype of smf-1+/rmlA+/spgM+/rpfF+ were mostly strong biofilm producers. Among the antibiotic-resistance genes, the Smqnr, L1, and sul1 had the highest prevalence (76.59%, 72.34%, and 64.89), respectively. Antimicrobial susceptibility evaluation showed 1.06%, 3.19%, and 6.3% resistance to minocycline, TMP-SMX, and levofloxacin. Conclusion. The results of the current study demonstrated that S. maltophilia isolates differ in biofilm-forming ability. Moreover, smf-1, rmlA, and spgM genes were presented in all strong biofilm producers. Although the overall resistance rate to the evaluated antibiotics was high, there was no statistically significant relation between antibiotic resistance and the type of biofilm.
Table S1 from Activation of the cGAS/STING Axis in Genome-Damaged Hematopoietic Cells Does Not Impact Blood Cell Formation or Leukemogenesis
Authors: Dressel Nicole , Natusch Loreen , Munz Clara M. , Costas Ramon Santiago , Morcos Mina N.F. , Loff Anja , Hiller Björn , Haase Christa , Schulze Livia , Müller Patrick , Lesche Mathias , Dahl Andreas , Luksch Hella , Rösen-Wolff Angela , Roers Axel , Behrendt Rayk , Gerbaulet Alexander
Published: September 2023

List of antibodies used in the study