bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The heterogeneous impact of college education on happiness by gender
Authors: Jung Haeil , Gil Jung‐ah
Published: January 2024

Objective

This study examines the heterogeneous impacts of college education on happiness by gender.

Methods

To yield unbiased impact estimates, we take advantage of a natural experiment known as the graduation quota program, which suddenly and massively expanded the opportunities to attend college in the early 1980s in South Korea. Using whether the birth cohorts were exposed to the graduation quota program as an instrumental variable (IV), this study estimates the longer‐term effects of college education on happiness by gender.

Results

The estimated local average treatment effect by the IV analysis indicates that men who were induced to attend college by the graduation quota program became happier. However, there was no noticeable impact on women's happiness.

Conclusions

Considering that the subjective happiness in our study was measured in their late 30s and 40s, the impact of college on happiness seems to be long‐lasting for men but not for women.
The novel HLA‐A*74:46 allele detected in a potential hematopoietic stem cell donor
Authors: Andryushkina Anna V. , Gusev Oleg , Ananeva Anastasiia , Shagimardanova Elena I.
Published: January 2024

One nucleotide substitution in codon 67 of HLA‐A*74:41 results in the novel allele, HLA‐A*74:46.
Five‐year single‐center analysis of cytomegalovirus viremia in kidney transplant recipients and possible implication for novel prophylactic therapy approaches
Authors: Trappe Moritz , Affeldt Patrick , Grundmann Franziska , Kann Martin , Koehler Felix C. , Müller Roman‐Ulrich , Stippel Dirk , Kaiser Rolf , Knops Elena , Heger Eva , Steger Gertrud , Klein Florian , Kurschat Christine , Di Cristanziano Veronica
Published: January 2024

Background

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infections are a common complication after kidney transplantation (KTx) and negatively affecting patient outcome. Valganciclovir (VGC) prophylaxis is often limited by drug‐induced side effects and dose reduction due to decline in kidney function.

Method

In the present study, episodes of CMV viremia in the first year after KTx in a cohort of 316 recipients were analyzed retrospectively to identify risk factors linked to persistent infections.

Results

In the studied cohort, 18.7% of patients showed a high‐risk (HR) constellation (D+/R–) for CMV infections. CMV viremia affected 22% of our cohort, with HR patients being the most affected cohort (44.1%). Within this group, most viremic events (65.3%) occurred while patients were still on prophylactic therapy, showing significantly higher viral loads and a longer duration compared to seropositive recipients.

Conclusion

The analysis at hand revealed that detection of viremia under ongoing antiviral prophylaxis bears an increased risk for sustained viral replication and antiviral drug resistance in HR patients. We identified low estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and lower dose VGC prophylaxis post‐KTx as a risk factor for breakthrough infections in HR patients in our single center cohort. These patients might benefit from a closer CMV monitoring or novel prophylactic agents as letermovir.

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Haplotype‐resolved genome assembly of Phanera championii reveals molecular mechanisms of flavonoid synthesis and adaptive evolution
Authors: Lu Yongbin , Chen Xiao , Yu Hang , Zhang Chao , Xue Yajie , Zhang Qiang , Wang Haifeng
Published: January 2024

Phanera championii is a medicinal liana plant that has successfully adapted to hostile karst habitats. Despite extensive research on its medicinal components and pharmacological effects, the molecular mechanisms underlying the biosynthesis of critical flavonoids and its adaptation to karst habitats remain elusive. In this study, we performed high‐coverage PacBio and Hi‐C sequencing of P. championii, which revealed its high heterozygosity and phased the genome into two haplotypes: Hap1 (384.60 Mb) and Hap2 (383.70 Mb), encompassing a total of 58 612 annotated genes. Comparative genomes analysis revealed that P. championii experienced two whole‐genome duplications (WGDs), with approximately 59.59% of genes originating from WGD events, thereby providing a valuable genetic resource for P. championii. Moreover, we identified a total of 112 genes that were strongly positively selected. Additionally, about 81.60 Mb of structural variations between the two haplotypes. The allele‐specific expression patterns suggested that the dominant effect of P. championii was the elimination of deleterious mutations and the promotion of beneficial mutations to enhance fitness. Moreover, our transcriptome and metabolome analysis revealed alleles in different tissues or different haplotypes collectively regulate the synthesis of flavonoid metabolites. In summary, our comprehensive study highlights the significance of genomic and morphological adaptation in the successful adaptation of P. championii to karst habitats. The high‐quality phased genomes obtained in this study serve as invaluable genomic resources for various applications, including germplasm conservation, breeding, evolutionary studies, and elucidation of pathways governing key biological traits of P. championii.
Healthcare center‐based cell therapy laboratories supporting off‐site manufactured cell therapies: The experiences of a single academic cell therapy laboratory
Authors: Dinh Anh , Stroncek David F.
Published: January 2024

Background

Healthcare center‐based cell therapy laboratories (HC CTLs) evolved from solely processing hematopoietic stem cells for transplantation to manufacturing various advanced cellular therapies. With increasing interest in cellular therapy applications, off‐site manufactured products are becoming more common. HC CTLs play a critical role in supporting these products by shipping out cellular starting material (CSM) for further manufacturing and/or receiving, storing, and distributing final products. The experiences and challenges encountered by a single academic HC CTL in supporting these products are presented.

Methods

All off‐site manufacturing protocols supported before 2023 were reviewed. Collected data included protocol characteristics (treatment indication, product type), process logistics (shipping, receiving, storage, thawing, distribution, documentation), and product handling volumes (CSM shipping and final product infusions).

Results

Between 2012 and 2022, 15 off‐site manufactured cellular therapy early‐phase, single‐ and multicenter clinical trials were supported. Trials were sponsored by academic/research and commercial entities. The number of protocols supported annually increased each year, with few ending. Products included cancer immunotherapies and gene therapies. Autologous CSM was collected and shipped, while autologous and allogeneic final products were received, stored, thawed, and distributed. Process differences among protocols included CSM shipping conditions, laboratory analyses, final product thaw conditions and procedures, number of treatments, and documentation.

Discussion

HC CTLs must contend with several challenges in supporting off‐site manufacturing protocols. As demand for cellular therapies increases, stakeholders should collaborate from the early phases of clinical trials to streamline processes and standardize procedures to increase value, improve safety, and reduce the burden on HC CTLs.
Sustained delirium reduction in an inpatient neuroscience unit
Authors: Kozub Elizabeth , Hedquist Katie , Tu Lisa , Bryant Ruth
Published: January 2024

Background

Delirium is described as acute brain dysfunction that often fluctuates throughout the day and is highly prevalent in hospitalized adults. Delirium negatively affects patient outcomes with consequences including decreased cognitive functioning and increased mortality and healthcare costs. Furthermore, neurological patients are at increased risk for developing delirium due to their underlying diagnoses.

Purpose

The purpose of this evidence‐based practice project was to evaluate the long‐term impact of nursing education and use of trained volunteers to prevent the development of delirium in an inpatient neuroscience unit.

Implementation Plan

This was a pre–post designed evidence‐based practice project to educate and prioritize nursing care interventions for delirium prevention compared to a delirium management framework. The interventions included delirium education for nurses and nursing assistants along with the development of a specialized volunteer program to implement non‐pharmacological, multi‐component delirium prevention interventions. Long‐term sustainment and enculturation occurred over the subsequent year.

Outcomes

The baseline data collection period included 2520 patients. The intervention period included 4515 patients, with both groups being similar in age, race, gender, and length of stay. The total number of patients with a discharge diagnosis of delirium decreased from 29.2% to 19.8% (p < .001). Fewer patients in the intervention group were discharged to a skilled nursing facility (p < .001) and other post‐acute facility (p = .008), along with more patients being discharged to home care (p < .001).

Linking Evidence to Action

This evidence‐based practice project demonstrates long‐term sustained reduction of delirium in the neuroscience population. Despite the challenges during the COVID‐19 pandemic, delirium prevention strategies were found to be effective in decreasing the rate at which patients develop delirium.
EVALUATING THE MANAGEMENT AND MAINTENANCE PRACTICES OF LINEAR ACCELERATOR AND COBALT-60 CANCER TREATMENT MACHINES IN NIGERIA: A COMPREHENSIVE ASSESSMENT
Authors: Ilupeju Titus Adeniyi , Anafi Fatai O. , Samuel Bassey Okon
Published: January 2024

This research paper investigated the state of radiotherapy machines and their management in cancer treatment centers in Nigeria. The study aimed to identify the challenges faced by these centers and propose strategies for improvement. Through a comprehensive analysis of data collected from surveys and questionnaires, critical issues impacting the availability, reliability, and effectiveness of radiotherapy machines were highlighted. The findings revealed a significant shortage of radiotherapy machines across the nation, with Nigeria having less than 6% of the required number of linacs. This scarcity led to a high workload on the existing machines, resulting in long waiting lists and compromised treatment outcomes. Management challenges, such as the absence of preventive maintenance policies, inadequate personnel training, delayed spare parts delivery, and limited engagement of maintenance contractors, were identified. The research emphasized the need for supportive cancer treatment machines, including orthovoltage and superficial machines, to alleviate the burden on existing radiotherapy machines. However, most centers lacked these supportive machines, limiting their ability to provide comprehensive care to patients. Financial sustainability also emerged as a significant concern, as internal funds proved insufficient for maintenance and operations. The involvement of the government and the establishment of independent regulatory bodies were proposed to address these challenges. In conclusion, this study called for urgent action to address the gaps and challenges in radiotherapy machine management in Nigeria. It highlighted the importance of increasing the number of machines, implementing preventive maintenance policies, enhancing staff training, and securing adequate funding. By doing so, the quality of cancer care could be significantly improved, leading to better patient outcomes and a more robust healthcare system in Nigeria.
Fundamental Properties and Biocompatibility Classification of Extraoral Prosthesis: A Review
Authors: Ghazali Nadhirah , Tengku Mohd Ariff Tengku Fazrina
Published: January 2024

This review article discusses on fundamentals of extraoral prosthesis and concerns on the biocompatibility classifications of extraoral prosthesis as medical device. Maxillofacial prosthodontics is a field that seldom being explored. Due to the circumstances, the progression and evolution of research of this area for evidence-based practice are slower comparing to another dental field. Hence, the purpose of this paper is to contribute and provide additional scientific knowledge in related field. Electronic search was done on several databases with keywords ‘maxillofacial prostheses and ‘biocompatibility’. In general, maxillofacial prosthesis can be divided into extraoral prosthesis, intraoral prosthesis, or combination of both depending on the location and function. Ideal properties can be divided into ideal processing characteristics, ideal biologic properties, and ideal physical and mechanical properties of processed extraoral prosthesis materials. Extraoral prosthesis can be classify as Class I or Class II depending on the retentive system according to FDA, and USP Class I and Class III depending on the underlying tissue.
Simulation of Lower Limb Muscle Moment and Total Muscle Fiber Force Using OpenSim for Knee Osteoarthritis
Authors: Azaman Aizreena , Mohammed Qahtani Ibrahim Adel , Puspanathan Jaysuman , Zulkapri Izwyn , Soeed Kamaruzaman
Published: January 2024

Computational modelling is a tool that provide accurate readings and simulation by using a combination of trusted and tested mathematical models of materials and system dynamics. Existing study in gait analysis mostly focus on extrinsic parameter such as kinetics and kinematics measures. The analysis of gait especially for disease such as knee osteoarthritis (OA) can provides insight into muscle properties, activation pattern and potential impact on the knee stability and function. This study aims to simulate and compare muscle activation properties in normal individual and individuals with knee osteoarthritis (OA) during gait phases. This study used musculoskeletal modeling software, OpenSim, to analyze the total fiber force and moment of several key muscles (such as medial gastrocnemius, vastus lateralis, and rectus femoris) relative to knee flexion moments. The motion analysis data of three subjects (one normal subject and two knee OA patients) were used in this study. The results shows that total muscle fiber force and muscle moment for medial gastrocnemius and vastus lateralis muscle were higher among individual with knee osteoarthritis. Meanwhile, rectus femoris muscle behaved differently where both parameters were smaller among knee OA patient. These simulated findings suggest that muscle mechanism changed due to knee osteoarthritis disease. The muscles force and moment were observed in this study gave some insight on the devastating effect of the disease on the lower limb joint muscle. Thus, further study is still warranted to investigate the risk of muscle injury and alteration of gait on individual with knee osteoarthritis. It is highly recommended to repeat this study with larger number of subjects for a better data interpretation.
Design and Implementation of Cost-efficient Prototype Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) for Premature Born Babies
Authors: Hasan Md Mahmudul , Majumder Avik , Hossain Mirza Mahfuj
Published: January 2024

A baby incubator is a device created to give premature infants a safe, regulated environment to live in while their important organs grow. Babies who are born prematurely do so under uncommon conditions, such as when the gestational age is fewer than nine months or the newborn weighs less than the average range of 2500 to 4000 grams. Hypothermia after birth can cause premature newborns' body temperatures to decrease sharply and considerably. Premature deaths are currently more likely to be connected to exogenous socio-environmental causes. The baby incubator is a great solution to this problem. However, the cost of the infant incubator is an issue. According to a study, preterm babies are more likely to die in low-income countries. Premature babies' survival rates in low-income nations are 30% for those born between 28 and 32 weeks and 1% for those born before 28 weeks, compared to 95% for those born between 28 and 32 weeks and 60% for those born before 28 weeks in high-income nations. This is because the infant incubator is too expensive to be employed in low-income nations. In order to solve this issue, we created a low-cost incubator for premature infants. Using an Arduino UNO with sensors: 1. A temperature and humidity sensor; 2. A gas sensor, the low-cost incubator being created can measure the temperature, relative humidity, and carbon dioxide levels in the baby's environment. Then it will utilize a temperature control fan, a humidity control fan, and a gas level control fan to automatically regulate the environment. These affordable incubators can be produced and used in these low-income countries, giving prematurely born babies an opportunity to use them and live.
The Effect of Pore Length on The Mechanical Properties of Vascular Scaffold Due to Systolic Pressure
Authors: Esa Nur Eszaty Farain , Maaruf Nurul Atiqah , Jahir-Hussain Musfirah Jiyanah , Jusoh Norhana
Published: January 2024

Tissue replacements are highly limited due to the lack of vascularized tissue in the engineered tissue. Thus, incorporating the vascular scaffold in any injured tissue or organ is critical in the tissue regeneration. As one of elastic tissue in human body, mechanical properties are vital in engineering a vascular scaffold. Besides, interconnected pores and scaffold porosity are among the main considerations in designing the scaffold for allowing the vascularization. Therefore, this study aims to simulate the mechanical properties of three-dimensional (3D) printed vascular scaffold by observing the deformation and elasticity after being applied with the maximum systolic pressure. Scaffolds with three different pore lengths were simulated for compression and tensile analysis by using Finite Element Analysis (FEA) based on polyethylene terephthalate (PET) material’s properties. The findings indicated that effective elastic modulus of the vascular scaffolds varied based on the pore length with shortest pore length gave the highest elasticity, whilst scaffold with the longest pore length gave lowest elasticity. Besides, stress value of compression and tensile analysis for all scaffolds were did not exceed the PET’s yield strength that indicated the designed scaffolds will have high potential for vascular tissue engineering applications.
Derived equivalences of self‐injective 2‐Calabi–Yau tilted algebras
Authors: Kortegaard Anders S.
Published: January 2024

Consider a ‐linear Frobenius category such that the corresponding stable category is 2‐Calabi–Yau, Hom‐finite with split idempotents. Let be maximal rigid objects with self‐injective endomorphism algebras. We will show that their endomorphism algebras and are derived equivalent. Furthermore, we will give a description of the two‐sided tilting complex that induces this derived equivalence.
Alterations in neuromuscular junction morphology with ageing and endurance training modulate neuromuscular transmission and myofibre composition
Authors: Yamaguchi Tatsuhiro , Kouzaki Karina , Sasaki Kazushige , Nakazato Koichi
Published: January 2024

Both ageing and exercise training affect the neuromuscular junction (NMJ) structure. Morphological alterations in the NMJ have been considered to influence neuromuscular transmission and myofibre properties, but the direct link between the morphology and function has yet to be established. We measured the neuromuscular transmission, myofibre composition and NMJ structure of 5‐month‐old (young) and 24‐month‐old untrained (aged control) and trained (aged trained) mice. Aged trained mice were subjected to 2 months of endurance training before the measurement. Neuromuscular transmission was evaluated in vivo as the ratio of ankle plantar flexion torque evoked by the sciatic nerve stimulation to that by direct muscle stimulation. The torque ratio was significantly lower in aged mice than in young and aged trained mice at high‐frequency stimulations, showing a significant positive correlation with voluntary grip strength. The degree of pre‐ to post‐synaptic overlap of the NMJ was also significantly lower in aged mice and positively correlated with the torque ratio. We also found that the proportion of fast‐twitch fibres in the soleus muscle decreased with age, and that age‐related denervation occurred preferentially in fast‐twitch fibres. Age‐related denervation and a shift in myofibre composition were partially prevented by endurance training. These results suggest that age‐related deterioration of the NMJ structure impairs neuromuscular transmission and alters myofibre composition, but these alterations can be prevented by structural amelioration of NMJ with endurance training. Our findings highlight the importance of the NMJ as a major determinant of age‐related deterioration of skeletal muscles and the clinical significance of endurance training as a countermeasure.

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Key points

The neuromuscular junction (NMJ) plays an essential role in neuromuscular transmission and the maintenance of myofibre properties.

We show that neuromuscular transmission is impaired with ageing but recovered by endurance training, which contributes to alterations in voluntary strength.

Neuromuscular transmission is associated with the degree of pre‐ to post‐synaptic overlap of the NMJ.

Age‐related denervation of fast‐twitch fibres and a shift in myofibre composition toward a slower phenotype are partially prevented by endurance training.

Our study provides substantial evidence that age‐related and exercise‐induced alterations in neuromuscular transmission and myofibre properties are associated with morphological changes in the NMJ.
Numerical Study on the Effects of Re on the Unsteady Behaviors in a Transonic Axial-Fan Under Inlet Distortion
Authors: Li Zhiping , Zhu Xingyu , Yan Zhaoqi , Pan Tianyu
Published: January 2024

The dynamic response of a compression system is the complex dynamic behaviors reacted by the compressor subject to non-uniform inflow excitation. However, in a real operating condition, the compressor would work at a wide range of altitudes within the flight envelope, which forces us to consider how Re additionally affects the compressor performance loss and dynamic response characteristic due to inlet distortion. To explore this issue, a full-annulus unsteady 3D simulation has been used to calculate the performance of a transonic axial fan with a 180-deg distortion at different Re. The results show that Re has additional detrimental effects on the fan aerodynamic performance with non-uniform inflow. To further explore the mechanisms of Re effects on fan–distortion interaction, the spatial and temporal distribution of the rotor blade response is discussed. The temporal distribution of the fan–distortion interaction is not changed with Re by analyzing the dynamic response orbit of the fan rotor. However, the spatial distribution of Re effects is highly related to the blade profile loaded mode at different spanwise locations. The results indicate that the time constant of fan dynamic response decreases by 17% at the mid-loaded region in the middle of the blade and increases by 40% at the aft-loaded region near the blade tip. Further analysis reveals that due to the low Re and flow separation of the suction surface, the thickness variation of blade boundary layer is the main cause for varying the blade time constant.
Impact of plasma operating conditions on the ion energy and angular distributions in dual-frequency capacitively coupled plasma reactors using CF4 chemistry
Authors: Ducluzaux Pierre , Ristoiu Delia , Cunge Gilles , Despiau-Pujo Emilie
Published: January 2024

A two-dimensional hybrid model is used to simulate an industrial dual-frequency capacitively coupled plasma reactor working at closely spaced frequencies (13.56–40.68 MHz) in pure CF4 chemistry. The goal is to understand how plasma operating conditions (pressure, low-frequency and high-frequency RF powers, and chamber wall conditions) influence critical etching parameters such as the ion energy and angular distribution (IEAD) and the ion flux at the wafer. In base case conditions, the ionic and radical composition at the center of the plasma is analyzed, revealing CF3+ and F− as the primary ions, and F, CF, CF3, CF2, and F2 as the predominant radicals (by decreasing density). The impact of the surface recombination coefficient of F radicals into F2 at the reactor walls, γ(rec,F > F2), is then explored; it is found that increasing γ(rec,F > F2) has a strong impact on the final plasma composition, decreasing CF and F densities while increasing CF3, CF2, and F densities, which highlights the importance of properly considering wall conditions in CF-based plasmas simulation. The IEAD at the wafer is then characterized, showing that the total IEAD shape is affected by the plasma ion composition: heavy ions such as CF3+ (69 amu) form the core of the distribution while lighter species such as F+ (19 amu) form the wing of the distribution due to their lower mass. The low frequency (LF) power (100–900 W) is shown to substantially modify the ion energy distribution function (IEDF) owing to sheath voltage changes, but to also marginally increase the ion flux at the wafer. Conversely, the high-frequency (HF) power (100–1500 W) strongly impacts the ion flux at the wafer due to HF voltage fluctuations, while the IEDF remains mostly unaffected. This study also reveals some coupling between the effects of the LF (13.56 MHz) and HF (40.68 MHz) power, a phenomenon attributable to their proximity in frequency which should not be neglected. Finally, increasing the pressure from 30 to 200 mTorr is found to increase the electronegativity by a factor 4 and to strongly impact the plasma structure, primarily due to variations in ion mobility; it also widens the ion angular spread, potentially influencing etch uniformity. Notably, higher pressures exceeding 100 mTorr result in a decrease in the average ion density and the emergence of a low-energy peak in the ion energy distribution, attributed to charge exchange collisions.
The End of the Formal Rehabilitation Is Not the End of Rehabilitation: Knee Function Deficits Remain After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction
Authors: Niederer Daniel , Keller Matthias , Wießmeier Max , Vogt Lutz , Stöhr Amelie , Schüttler Karl-Friedrich , Schoepp Christian , Petersen Wolf , Pinggera Lucia , Mengis Natalie , Mehl Julian , Krause Matthias , Janko Maren , Guenther Daniel , Engeroff Tobias , Ellermann Andree , Efe Turgay , Best Raymond , Groneberg David A. , Behringer Michael , Stein Thomas
Published: January 2024

Objective: To rate athletes’ functional ability and return to sport (RTS) success at the end of their individual, formal, medically prescribed rehabilitation after anterior anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. Methods: In our prospective multicenter cohort study, 88 (42 females) adults aged 18–35 years after acute unilateral ACL rupture and subsequent hamstring grafting were included. All patients were prospectively monitored during their rehabilitation and RTS process until the end of their formal rehabilitation and RTS release. As outcome measures, functional hop and jump tests (front hop, balance hops, and drop jump screening test) and self-report outcomes (Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score, ACL-RTS after injury) were assessed. Literature-based cut-off values were selected to rate each performance as fulfilled or not. Results: At 7.5 months (SD 2.3 months) after surgery, the percentage of participants meeting the functional thresholds ranged from 4% (Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score SPORT) and over 44% (ACL-RTS after injury sum score) to 59% (Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score activities of all daily living) in the self-report and from 29% (Balance side hop) to 69% (normalized knee separation distance) in performance testing. Only 4% fulfilled all the cut-offs, while 45% returned to the same type and level of sport. Participants who successfully returned to their previous sport (type and level) were more likely to be “over-cut-off-performers.” Conclusions: The low share of the athletes who fulfilled the functional RTS criteria highlights the importance of continuing the rehabilitation measures after the formal completion to assess the need for and success of, inter alia, secondary-preventive therapies.
Biodiversity monitoring for a just planetary future
Authors: Chapman Melissa , Goldstein Benjamin R. , Schell Christopher J. , Brashares Justin S. , Carter Neil H. , Ellis-Soto Diego , Faxon Hilary Oliva , Goldstein Jenny E. , Halpern Benjamin S. , Longdon Joycelyn , Norman Kari E. A. , O’Rourke Dara , Scoville Caleb , Xu Lily , Boettiger Carl
Published: January 2024

Data that influence policy and major investment decisions risk entrenching social and political inequities
Genuine images in 2024
Authors: Thorp H. Holden
Published: January 2024

In recent years, the research community has become increasingly concerned with issues involving the manipulation of images in scientific papers. Some of these alterations—involving images from experimental techniques such as microscopy, flow cytometry, and western blots—are inadvertent and may not change the conclusions of papers. But in rare cases, some are done deliberately to mislead readers. Image sleuths who can detect these alterations, like the scientific integrity consultant Elisabeth Bik, have risen to prominence, as has the website PubPeer, where many of the detected flaws are posted. High-profile incidents, such as one involving the laboratory of former Stanford University President Marc Tessier-Lavigne, have eroded public confidence in science and harmed careers of investigators who missed doctored images coming from their own laboratories. To address these problems, in 2024, the
Science
family of journals is adopting the use of Proofig, an artificial intelligence (AI)–powered image-analysis tool, to detect altered images across all six of the journals.
The
Helicobacter pylori
methylome is acid-responsive due to regulation by the two-component system ArsRS and the type I DNA methyltransferase HsdM1 (HP0463)
Authors: Zimmerman Elise H. , Ramsey Erin L. , Hunter Katherine E. , Villadelgado Sarah M. , Phillips Celeste M. , Shipman Ryan T. , Forsyth Mark H.
Published: January 2024

In addition to its role in genome protection, DNA methylation can regulate gene expression. In this study, we characterized the impact of acidity, phase variation, and the ArsRS TCS on the expression of the Type I m6A DNA methyltransferase HsdM1 (HP0463) of
Helicobacter pylori
26695 and their subsequent effects on the methylome. Transcription of
hsdM
1 increases at least fourfold in the absence of the sensory histidine kinase ArsS, the major acid-sensing protein of
H. pylori. hsdM
1 exists in the phase-variable operon
hsdR
1-
hsdM
1. Phase-locking
hsdR
1 (HP0464), the restriction endonuclease gene, has significant impacts on the transcription of
hsdM
1. To determine the impacts of methyltransferase transcription patterns on the methylome, we conducted methylome sequencing on samples cultured at pH 7 or pH 5. We found differentially methylated motifs between these growth conditions and that deletions of
arsS
and/or
hsdM
1 interfere with the epigenetic acid response. Deletion of
arsS
leads to altered activity of HsdM1 and multiple other methyltransferases under both pH conditions indicating that the ArsRS TCS, in addition to direct effects on regulon transcription during acid acclimation, may also indirectly impact gene expression
via
regulation of the methylome. We determined the target motif of HsdM1 (HP0463) to be the complementary bipartite sequence pair 5′-TCA
m6A
VN
6
TGY-3′ and 3′-AGTN
6
GA
m6A
CA-5′. This complex regulation of DNA methyltransferases, and thus differential methylation patterns, may have implications for the decades-long persistent infection by
H. pylori
.

IMPORTANCE

This study expands the possibilities for complex, epigenomic regulation in
Helicobacter pylori
. We demonstrate that the
H. pylori
methylome is plastic and acid sensitive
via
the two-component system ArsRS and the DNA methyltransferase HsdM1. The control of a methyltransferase by ArsRS may allow for a layered response to changing acidity. Likely, an early response whereby ArsR~P affects regulon expression, including the methyltransferase
hsdM
1. Then, a somewhat later effect as the altered methylome, due to altered HsdM1 expression, subsequently alters the expression of other genes involved in acclimation. The intermediate methylation of certain motifs supports the hypothesis that methyltransferases play a regulatory role. Untangling this additional web of regulation could play a key role in understanding
H. pylori
colonization and persistence.
Supplemental Material: Mantle flow and olivine fabric transition in the Myanmar continental subduction zone
Authors: Fan Enbo , Ai Yinshuang , Gao Stephen , al. et
Published: January 2024

Detailed descriptions of the data, methods, supplemental Figures S1–S9, and Table S1 (splitting parameters).  
Supplemental Material: Rare earth element transport and mineralization linked to fluids from carbonatite systems
Authors: Mororó Emanuel , Guzmics Tibor , al. et
Published: January 2024

Data, results, calculations, methods, experimental details, sampling, and petrography. 
An assessment of the environmental sustainability of beef production in Canada
Authors: Aboagye Isaac A. , Valappil Gayathri , Dutta Baishali , Imbeault-Tétreault Hugues , Ominski Kim H. , Cordeiro Marcos R.C. , Kröbel Roland , Pogue Sarah J. , McAllister Tim A.
Published: January 2024

This study assessed the environmental impacts of beef cattle production and their effects on the overall sustainability of Canadian beef production. Cradle to farm gate, cradle to processor’s gate, and cradle to consumer plate life cycle assessments were carried out to quantify greenhouse gases (GHG), resource use (i.e., water, land, and fuel), and potential water and air pollution (i.e., freshwater eutrophication, terrestrial acidification, and photochemical oxidants formation). Across the production chain, feed production had the greatest impact on most environmental indicators. The GHG intensity without dairy meat was estimated as 10.4 kg CO2-eq per kg of live weight (LW), corresponding to 32.8 kg CO2-eq per kg of consumed boneless beef. Including dairy meat reduced GHG intensity by 5.8% (0.6 kg CO2-eq kg LW–1) compared to when it was excluded. Other environmental metrics per kg of LW were 657 L, 38.7 m2 annual crop-eq, 0.4 kg oil-eq, 2.6 kg P-eq, 115.9 kg SO2-eq, and 8.7 kg NOx-eq for water use, land use, fossil fuel use, freshwater eutrophication, terrestrial acidification, and photochemical oxidants, respectively. Data provide benchmarks for use in future regional and national assessments that are designed to encourage the adoption of sustainable management practices that can lower the environmental footprint of Canadian beef production.
Inhibition of the type IV secretion system from antibiotic-resistant Helicobacter pylori clinical isolates supports the potential of Cagα as an anti-virulence target
Authors: Oudouhou Flore , Morin Claire , Bouin Mickael , Gaudreau Christiane , Baron Christian
Published: January 2024

Helicobacter pylori resistance to antibiotics is a growing problem and it increasingly leads to treatment failure. While the bacterium is present worldwide, the severity of clinical outcomes is highly dependent on the geographical origin and genetic characteristics of the strains. One of the major virulence factors identified in H. pylori is the cag pathogenicity island ( cagPAI), which encodes a type IV secretion system (T4SS) used to translocate effectors into human cells. Here, we investigated the genetic variability of the cagPAI among 13 antibiotic-resistant H. pylori strains that were isolated from patient biopsies in Québec. Seven of the clinical strains carried the cagPAI, but only four could be readily cultivated under laboratory conditions. We observed variability of the sequences of CagA and CagL proteins that are encoded by the cagPAI. All clinical isolates induce interleukin-8 secretion and morphological changes upon co-incubation with gastric cancer cells and two of them produce extracellular T4SS pili. Finally, we demonstrate that molecule 1G2, a small molecule inhibitor of the Cagα protein from the model strain H. pylori 26695, reduces interleukin-8 secretion in one of the clinical isolates. Co-incubation with 1G2 also inhibits the assembly of T4SS pili, suggesting a mechanism for its action on T4SS function.
Vibration Response Analysis of a Tethered Unmanned Aerial Vehicle System under Transient Wind Field
Authors: He Wei , Zhang Suxia
Published: January 2024

The transient wind is one of the dangerous conditions encountered by tethered UAVs operating at the ocean, making the cable and the UAV generate complex nonlinear vibration responses threatening normal operation, even safe flight. There is a lack of research on the nonlinear vibration of the tethered UAV in a transient wind field environment. This study analyzes the vibration response of a tethered quadrotor UAV under a transient wind field, which helps to boost the tethered UAV applications, providing engineering suggestions to design these systems. Considering both cable and UAV motions, the coupled dynamic equations of the tethered UAV system are established based on the Hamilton principle. The variation law of the cable vibration amplitudes with wind field and position is analyzed through a one-minus-cosine gust profile to describe the transient wind field, which can evaluate the dynamic behavior of systems in the actual flight. Moreover, the positions of maximum vibration amplitude in tangential and normal directions are found to be approximately 9/10 and 9/20 from the lower end of the cable. Furthermore, the tethered UAV system vibrations are investigated under different structural parameters. The results indicate that the UAV can maintain a stable single-period motion by increasing the length or elastic modulus or selecting the appropriate diameters of the cable. Finally, an experiment is implemented on the vibration response of the tethered UAV system in a wind tunnel. The theoretical result is compatible with the experimental one, demonstrating the theoretical method’s accuracy.
Optimal Food Matrix Model for Digestibility and Bioavailability of Calcium and Zinc
Authors: Khan Muzna , Ahmad Nazir , Nisa Mahr Un , Jadaan Aalia
Published: January 2024

The nutrient deficiency resulting from inappropriate dietary intake leads to major risk factors of malnutrition and poses many serious threats and challenges to human health and capabilities. Malnutrition can be prevented through efficient accessibility and bioavailability from different food matrices. The objective of this study was to assess the digestibility and bioavailability of calcium and zinc with food matrices such as casual food (bread curry mixture), yogurt (plain and fruited), juices (orange, apple, carrot, and tomato), coffee, water (water and sparkling water), and smoothies after digestion with saliva, gastric, duodenal, and small intestine juices. 20 mg calcium and 3 mg zinc were mixed with the above food matrices and digestibility and bioavailability were determined. The result showed that the highest calcium digestibility (49.75%) was observed with plain yogurt and the lowest digestibility (10.10%) was observed with sparkling water. The highest (22.80%) and lowest (6.20%) calcium bioavailability were observed with fruit yogurt and carrot juice, respectively. The highest (13.55%) and lowest (10.20%) zinc digestibility were observed with coffee and orange juices, respectively. The highest (4.85%) and lowest (1.05%) zinc bioavailability were observed with fruit yogurt and bread sauce, respectively. Thus, this study helps to determine the optimal food matrix model for the best digestibility and potential bioavailability of calcium and zinc from vitamin-mineral products.
Effects of Varying Dietary Protein Levels on Growth Performance, Survival, Body Composition, Haemato-Biochemical Profile, and Metabolic Responses of Hypselobarbus jerdoni (Day, 1870) Juveniles
Authors: Debroy Subam , Banerjee Sawant Paramita , Sardar Parimal , Biswas Gouranga , Varghese Tincy , Goswami Mukunda , Kumar Maiti Manas , Haque Ramjanul , Roy Udipta , Sarma Debajit
Published: January 2024

A 60-day feeding trial has been carried out to access the optimal dietary crude protein (DCP) requirement of juvenile Jerdon’s carp, Hypselobarbus jerdoni. Six isoenergetic (around 400 Kcal DE/100 g), isolipidic (60.80 g/kg), and heteronitrogenous diets were prepared with graded levels of protein, viz., 200, 250, 300, 350, 400, and 450 g/kg (TCP 20-TCP 45 with 50 g/kg incremental level). A completely randomised design (CRD) was used to distribute 270 Jerdon’s carp juveniles (6.12–6.18 g) in six experimental groups in triplicates (15 fish/tank, 200 l water capacity). After 60 days, the fishes of the TCP30 group showed significantly higher weight gain, final body weight, and percentage weight gain (WG%). The fish of the TCP30 group exhibited a significantly higher feed efficiency ratio and specific growth rate. On the other hand, a significantly lower feed conversion ratio is recorded in the TCP30 and TCP35 groups. The protein efficiency ratio of fish was reduced significantly with the elevated DCP level. Whole-body moisture, lipid, and total ash contents of H. jerdoni were remain unaffected by DCP levels. However, DCP levels significantly influenced the whole-body protein of H. jerdoni juveniles, with significantly higher values noticed in the TCP30 and TCP35 groups. The TCP35, TCP40, and TCP45 groups exhibited significantly higher (p<0.05) protease activity, and the amylase activity showed a decreasing trend in response to dietary protein levels. A significantly (p<0.05) higher SOD and CAT activity were observed in the TCP20 and TCP25 groups. However, lower hepatic glutamate pyruvate transaminase and glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase activity were observed in the TCP30 and TCP35 groups, respectively. Furthermore, based on broken-line linear and second-order polynomial regression with respect to WG%, the optimal dietary crude protein requirement of H. jerdoni cultured for 60 days was found to be 309.72 and 316.40 g/kg.
Response Analysis of an Experimental Study on the Effect of Speed and Premixed Fuel Ratio on Performance and Emissions in RCCI Engine
Authors: Disassa Habtamu Deresso , Ancha Venkata Ramayya , Nallamothu Ramesh Babu , Yoseph Bisrat , Alemayehu Getachew
Published: January 2024

Even though CI engines are more efficient than SI engines due to their ability to operate at a greater compression ratio, a leaner charge, and lower throttle losses, they have higher PM and nitrogen oxide emissions. The induction system modification with fuel port injection is used as a parameter in RCCI engine operations for controlling emission through in‐cylinder charge reactivity and combustion phasing. By varying the amount of hydrous bioethanol in the premixed fuel injection ratio, the engine’s performance and emissions are greatly affected. In this study, an experimental investigation of a triple‐fuel RCCI engine running on port‐injected gasoline‐bioethanol blend and direct‐injected diesel fuel was conducted. Taguchi’s experimental design method was employed to assess the impact of various independent variables utilizing three set levels and two factors with the L9 orthogonal array. From the findings, the delta value shows the highest average response for each factor. Engine speed has the largest effect on the signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR) with the (delta value of: 10.7446, rank = 1), and the delta value of 38.96, rank = 1, has the largest effect on the response of means at engine speeds of 3000 rpm. The premixed fuel ratio of G25BE75 (delta: 87.30, rank = 1) has the largest effect on the standard deviation. The lines are not parallel in all emission and performance cases except for Tb and CO2, which are close to parallel. The best means in engine speed and premixed blended fuel ratio were NOx, CO, HC, and brake power. At 3000 rpm, the speed had the larger main effect plots of SNR. The premixed fuel ratio of G25BE75 had higher main effect plots for means and standard deviations. The residues appear to have been dispersed normally based on a straight line by using a normal probability plot. The data are normally distributed, as demonstrated by the normal probability plot, and the factors had an impact on the response. Conferring to the experiment result, a high engine speed and higher ethanol content in the RCCI premixed fuel are preferred for reducing nitrogen oxides (NOx) and carbon dioxide (CO2), while unburned hydrocarbons (UHCs) and carbon monoxide (CO) showed a slight increase.
Genetic Variability for the Yield and Yield-Related Traits in Some Maize (Zea mays L.) Inbred Lines in the Central Highland of Ethiopia
Authors: Korsa Fekadu , Dessalegn Obssi , Zeleke Habtamu , Petros Yohannes
Published: January 2024

After rice and wheat, maize (Zea mays L.) is the third most significant and valuable crop in terms of industrial production in the world. The experiment was conducted to determine the nature and magnitude of genetic variability for various traits of maize inbred lines at the Ambo Plant Protection Research Center experimental field during 2013/2014, the major cropping season. The experiment’s design was described in 5 × 5 triple lattice designs. The results of the analysis of variance revealed that genotypic mean squares were significant for all traits, indicating that the inbred lines under study had a higher level of genetic diversity. In terms of genotypic and phenotypic variation, the largest coefficient was found in grain yield per hectare (28.49 and 35.43) followed by the number of tassel branches (23.14 and 24.92), respectively. Both days to 50% silking (91.57) and days to 50% tasseling (86.56) showed a high magnitude of broad-sense heritability. The results of the phenotypic and genotypic correlation analyses showed that grain yield per plant significantly correlated positively with five traits at both the phenotypic and genotypic levels. The number of kernels per row, aboveground biomass production per plant, harvest index, and grain yield per hectare might all be employed as selection criteria to increase the maize grain yield, according to path coefficient analysis at the phenotypic and genotypic levels. The grain yield and other significant yield components were found to be superior with inbred lines AMH169-55 and AMH169-86. Therefore, it is advised that these lines be used to further enhance the maize crop.