bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The “4.3,” A New Filler Lips Technique
Authors: Castellaneta Francesco , Lombardi Mariagiovanna , D'Antonio Santolo , Fabrizio Tommaso
Published: October 2024

Background

The “4.3” technique is a hybrid lip augmentation approach that combines the aesthetic benefits of the vertical‐lip technique with the fewer entry points of the retrograde linear technique. This method aims to create natural‐looking, harmonious, and defined lips using hyaluronic acid (HA)‐based fillers, to enhance volume and contour.

Aims

The objective of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness, safety, and reproducibility of the “4.3” technique in achieving natural lip augmentation with minimal filler volume and reduced injections. This technique is applied to improve the shape and volume of the lips while minimizing the risk of complications.

Patients/Methods

The technique was applied to male and female patients with standard anatomical features who desired subtle enhancements in lip contour, projection, and volume. The procedure involved four injections in the upper lip and three in the lower lip, using a combination of retrograde linear and vertical techniques. A total of 0.7 mL of HA filler were used for each patient.

Results

The “4.3” technique achieved consistent and aesthetically pleasing results across all patients, with improvements in lip volume, shape, and definition. The reduced number of injections minimized discomfort and risk of vascular complications. The use of Tri‐Hyal technology contributed to smooth, plump lips with harmonious proportions.

Conclusions

The “4.3” technique is a standardized, intuitive, and reproducible method suitable for most patients, regardless of sex. It allows for natural‐looking lip augmentation using a reduced volume of filler and fewer injections, making it a safe and effective option for enhancing lip aesthetics.
Association of Fusobacterium nucleatum Levels by ddPCR in Oral Rinse Samples With Periodontal Disease in Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma Patients and in Controls
Authors: Fernandes Bárbara Borella , Datorre Jose Guilherme , Vazquez Fabiana de Lima , Peters Ana Carolina de Carvalho , Coracin Fabio Luiz , Reis Rui Manuel , Arantes Lidia Maria Rebolho Batista , Gama Ricardo Ribeiro
Published: October 2024

Background

The role of microbiome, particularly Fusobacterium nucleatum (Fn), in periodontal disease and oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) has been recently explored. This study aimed to evaluate the Fn presence and its levels in oral rinse samples from Brazilian OSCC patients and healthy individuals and its association with sociodemographic, clinical, and oral health features.

Methods

In this case–control study, 80 participants were included, 31 OSCC patients and 49 individuals without a cancer history. Clinical data were collected, and an oral exam was done on a subset of the cohort. Fn levels were evaluated by droplet digital PCR (ddPCR) in oral rinse samples and were categorized as Fn‐high or Fn‐low based on the median number of copies per reaction.

Results

OSCC patients showed higher levels of Fn (68%, p = 0.03) than controls, and all OSCC cases were diagnosed with periodontal disease (100%, p = 1.0). In the univariate analysis, Fn‐high level was more frequently present in OSCC cases compared to controls (p = 0.01). It was also observed that Fn‐high level OSCC cases were significantly associated with self‐reported non‐white ethnicity (71.4%, p = 0.01) and had more infiltrative lesions (57.1%, p = 0.02) than Fn‐low OSCC cases. Fn‐high levels in oral rinse samples, were significantly more prevalent among OSCC than in controls.

Conclusions

In OSCC patients, Fn‐high levels were associated with non‐white ethnicity and lesions with infiltrative clinical aspects. Among OSCC cases, all had periodontal disease.
Creating Lasting Conditions for Meaningful Recess Reform: A 5‐School Exploration
Authors: London Rebecca A. , Alvarez Gabriella , Massey William V. , Farello Anna , Santos Betania
Published: October 2024

BACKGROUND

When well implemented, recess is a critical part of the school day for children's healthy development. We explored the implementation of a recess improvement process in 5 elementary schools across 3 states.

METHODS

We conducted a mixed‐methods implementation study in which we visited each school 3 times over 1 school year, collecting observational, interview, survey, and focus group data. Qualitative data were coded thematically and analyzed across schools. Quantitative data were tabulated and aggregated over time and across schools.

RESULTS

We observed improvements in aspects of recess quality at each school, with three schools demonstrating the most progress. Quantitative data showed null effects in aggregate; however one school demonstrated significant improvements. Four criteria contributed to the quality and sustainability of recess reform: staff engagement, integration with other programs, student leadership, and recess communications.

IMPLICATIONS FOR SCHOOL HEALTH POLICY, PRACTICE, AND EQUITY

Program implementation research often refers to “buy‐in” as a key ingredient to successful adoption. We provide a tool that helps to operationalize buy‐in in the recess context.

CONCLUSIONS

Changing the recess environment requires individual and institutional commitment to valuing recess as an important learning environment. School administrators must lead the change process and create institutional infrastructure to support success.
Towards equitable reporting of Indigenous status, ethnicity, language and country of birth in Australian paediatric clinical studies: A scoping review
Authors: Cunninghame Jacqueline , Holland Lorelle , Takashima Mari , Nguyen Linda , Diaz Abbey , Guo Shuaijun , Dufficy Mitchell , Munns Craig F , Ullman Amanda
Published: October 2024

Aim

This scoping review aims to expansively review the reporting of Indigenous status, ethnicity, culture, language and country of birth in Australian paediatric clinical studies.

Methods

Scoping review of Australian clinical studies, including randomised controlled trials, non‐randomised controlled trials, cluster randomised controlled trials and quasi‐experimental studies, with paediatric participants (<18 years) or mixed adult and paediatric participants. PubMed, Cumulated Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature and Embase databases were searched for clinical studies published 1 January 2018 to 28 November 2022.

Results

Of the 2717 studies identified in the search, 209 clinical studies were included. Overall, 131 (62.7%) clinical studies captured in this review did not report any of the variables of interest. When reported, terms used by study authors varied extensively and subsequently five study‐defined categories emerged ‘Indigenous status’, ‘race’, ‘race and ethnicity’, ‘ethnicity’, or ‘natural skin colour’. ‘Indigenous status’ was most reported (n = 37, 17.7%), followed by ‘ethnicity and/or cultural background’ (n = 15, 7.2%), ‘race and ethnicity’ (n = 4, 1.9%), race (n = 1, 0.5%) and ‘natural skin colour’ (n = 1, 0.5%). Furthermore, language used at home was reported in 27 studies (12.9%) and country of birth in 23 studies (11.0%).

Conclusions

This review demonstrated very low reporting of Indigenous status, ethnicity, culture, language and country of birth in Australian paediatric clinical studies. Poor reporting has raised concerns surrounding generalisability of findings from these trials in addition to equity. The recent international shift encompassing improved clinical trial reporting requirements, for ethnicity and race, require prompt establishment in the Australian clinical trial domain.
Assessing climatic conditions and biotic interactions shaping the success of Cystoseira foeniculacea early‐life stages
Authors: Bernal‐Ibáñez Alejandro , Cacabelos Eva , Triay‐Portella Raul , Ramalhosa Patrício , Gestoso Ignacio
Published: October 2024

Early‐life stages of canopy‐forming macroalgae are critical for the maintenance of natural populations and the success of restoration actions. Unfortunately, the abiotic conditions and biotic interactions shaping the success of these stages have received less attention than the interactions shaping the success of adults. Here, we combined field and mesocosm experiments to explore the effects of temperature, herbivory, and canopy presence on the development of early‐life stages of the brown seaweed Cystoseira foeniculacea. We assessed these effects by examining changes in recruit density and size. After recruiting zygotes under laboratory conditions, we conducted one laboratory and three field experiments. In the first field experiment, the density of recruits decreased over time in all rockpools and was negatively affected by rising temperatures and turf cover. Additionally, a marine heatwave (MHW; 11 days >25°C) was recorded in the donor pools, producing strong decay in the density of transplanted recruits and a significant reduction of the mature canopy. The second field experiment tested the survival of recruits based on their positioning within the canopy. We observed a higher density of recruits when placed at the edge or outside the canopy compared to recruits placed under the canopy. In the third field experiment, an herbivory‐exclusion experiment, we show how density of recruits decreased in less than 48 h in noncaged treatments. In the laboratory, we conducted a thermotolerance experiment under controlled conditions, exposing the recruits to 19, 22, 25, 28, and 31°C for 7 weeks to assess thermal impacts on their survival and growth. Temperatures above the 25°C threshold reduced the density and size of the recruits. This study sheds light on the performance of the early‐life stages of a Cystoseira spp. in Macaronesia, showing a low survival ratio against the current pressures even in the context of the potential refuge provided by the intertidal rockpools.
Patterns and Drivers of Pollen Temperature Tolerance
Authors: Tushabe Donam , Rosbakh Sergey
Published: October 2024

Pollen, a pivotal stage in the plant reproductive cycle, is highly sensitive to temperature fluctuations, impacting seed quality and quantity. While the importance of understanding pollen temperature limits (Tmin, Topt, Tmax – collectively PTLs) is recognized, a comprehensive synthesis of underlying drivers is lacking. Here, we examined PTLs, correlating them with vegetative tissue thermotolerance and assessing variability at the intra‐ and interspecific levels across 191 species with contrasting phylogeny, cultivation history, growth form and ecology. At the species level, the PTLs range from 9.0 to 42.4°C, with considerable differences among individual species. Vegetative tissue showed greater tolerance to both low and high temperatures than pollen. A significant, though weak, correlation was observed between PTLs and leaf temperature tolerance. Pollen heat tolerance was independent of that in leaves and stems. The greatest intraspecific variability was observed in pollen cold tolerance (Tmin), followed by Topt and Tmax. Phylogenetic analysis revealed family‐level conservation in all three pollen temperature tolerance measures. Climate emerged as a significant PTL driver of pollen cold tolerance, with species from colder and stable climates exhibiting enhanced cold tolerance. Cultivated and wild species did not differ in their pollen temperature tolerances. Herbaceous plants showed higher tolerance to high temperatures compared to shrubs and trees, potentially reflecting divergent thermal conditions during anthesis. This study provides the first formal analysis of complex relationships between pollen temperature limits, plant characteristics and environmental factors, providing crucial insights into climate change impacts on plant reproduction.
OsCaM1‐1 Is Responsible for Salt Tolerance by Regulating Na+/K+ Homoeostasis in Rice
Authors: Wei Siqi , Chen Mingjiong , Wang Fengyue , Tu Yishan , Xu Yunfeng , Fu Liangbo , Zeng Fanrong , Zhang Guoping , Wu Dezhi , Shen Qiufang
Published: October 2024

Calmodulin, a highly conserved calcium‐binding protein, plays a crucial role in response to salt stress. Previous studies investigated sequence and function of calmodulin members in some plants, but their roles in rice have not been fully elucidated. Three OsCaM1 genes namely OsCaM1‐1/2/3 encode the same OsCaM1 protein. Here, we found that OsCaM1‐1 had significantly higher expression than the other two genes under salt stress. After 4 weeks of exposure to 75 mM NaCl, OsCaM1‐1 overexpressed mutants showed higher salt tolerance, while knocked‐out mutants exhibited lower salt tolerance, compared to the wild type. Moreover, the oscam1‐1 mutants had higher Na+ concentration and Na+/K+ ratio in both shoots and roots, less instantaneous K+ and Ca2+ fluxes in roots, compared to wild type under salt stress, indicating the involvement of OsCaM1‐1 in regulation of Na+ and K+ homoeostasis via Ca2+ signal. RNA‐seq analysis identified 452 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) regulated by OsCaM1‐1 and salt stress, and they were mainly enriched in nucleus DNA‐binding activities, including ABI5, WRKY76, WRKY48 and bHLH120 transcription factors. Knockout of OsCaM1‐1 also modulated the expression of Na+ transporters, including HKT1;1, HKT1;5, SOS1, NHX1 and NHX4. In conclusion, OsCaM1‐1 positively regulates salt tolerance in rice through mediating ion homoeostasis.
Elevated CO2 Concentration Extends Reproductive Growth Period and Enhances Carbon Metabolism in Wheat Exposed to Increased Temperature
Authors: Wang Jiao , Han Yuyan , Li Hongyan , Bai Haixia , Liang Hui , Zong Yuzheng , Zhang Dongsheng , Shi Xinrui , Li Ping , Hao Xingyu
Published: October 2024

Both elevated atmospheric CO2 concentration ([CO2]) and increased temperature exert notable influences on wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) growth and productivity when examined individually. Nevertheless, limited research comprehensively investigates the combined effects of both factors. Winter wheat was grown in environment‐controlled chambers under two concentrations of CO2 (ambient CO2 concentration and ambient CO2 concentration plus 200 µmol mol−1) and two levels of temperature (ambient temperature and ambient temperature plus 2°C). The phenology, photosynthesis, carbohydrate and nitrogen metabolism, yield and quality responses of wheat were investigated. Elevated [CO2] did not counteract warming‐induced shortening of wheat phenological period but prolonged grain filling. Even though photosynthetic adaptation occurred during the reproductive growth period, elevated [CO2] still significantly enhanced carbohydrate accumulation under warming, particularly at the grain filling stage, thereby increasing yield by 20.1% compared with the ambient control. However, elevated [CO2] inhibited nitrogen assimilation at the grain filling stage under increased temperature by downregulating the expression levels of TaNR, TaNIR, TaGS1 and TaGOGAT and reducing glutamine synthetase activity, which directly led to a significant decrease of 19.4% in grain protein content relative to the ambient control. These findings suggest that elevated [CO2] will likely increase yield but decrease grain nutritional quality for wheat under future global warming scenarios.
Pediatric Learning Health Networks in Solid Organ Transplantation—Engaging all Stakeholders to Achieve Health for Children Who Require Transplantation
Authors: George Roshan P. , Feldman Amy G. , McQueen Melissa , Krise‐Confair Cassandra , Smyth Lauren , Lorts Angela , Peng David M. , Mazariegos George V. , Hooper David K.
Published: October 2024

Background

Learning Health Networks (LHN) have evolved within medicine over the past two decades, but their integration into transplantation has been more recent.

Objectives and Methods

In this paper, we describe three LHNs in end‐stage organ disease/transplantation, their common and unique features, and how their “actor‐oriented” architecture allowed for rapid adaptation to meet the needs of their patients and practitioners during the recent COVID‐19 pandemic.

Result

The structure and focus of the Improving Renal Outcomes Collaborative (IROC), Starzl Network for Excellence in Pediatric Transplantation (SNEPT), and the Advanced Cardiac Therapies Improving Outcomes Network (ACTION) are reviewed. We discuss the critical role of patient and family engagement, focusing on collaboration with Transplant Families. Finally, we review challenges common to the LHN concept and potential common areas of alignment to achieve the goal of more rapid and sustained progress to improve health in pediatric transplantation.

Conclusion

LHN in transplantation are essential to accelerate knowledge dissemination and improve outcomes.
Immunosuppressive Therapy, Puberty and Growth Outcomes in Pediatric Kidney Transplant Recipients: A Pragmatic Review
Authors: Zicarelli Mariateresa , Errante Antonietta , Andreucci Michele , Coppolino Giuseppe , Bolignano Davide
Published: October 2024

Kidney transplantation in children with end‐stage kidney disease significantly enhances survival and quality of life but poses unique challenges related to chronic immunosuppressive therapy. In fact, despite being essential for preventing organ rejection, immunosuppressive therapy can have significant side effects specific to pediatric patients, such as adverse impacts on physiological growth, puberty, and fertility. The resulting short stature and delayed or incomplete pubertal development can profoundly affect young patients' psychological and social well‐being, impacting self‐esteem and overall quality of life, and may significantly hamper compliance and therapeutic adherence. Most studies on immunosuppression in pediatric kidney transplant recipients focus on general side effects and outcomes like long‐term graft survival or acute complications. On the other side, there is limited evidence in the current literature on the specific issues of growth, puberty, and fertility in this patient population. In this pragmatic review, we aimed to summarize the most relevant information available on these critical aspects of post‐transplant management in pediatric patients, also providing some practical indications on management strategies for minimizing these often neglected but still important complications.
Range and Nature of Social Services for Children With Disabilities and Their Families: A Descriptive Study
Authors: Jeon Hyejin , Shin Hyunsook , Rim Dahae , Shon Soonyoung
Published: October 2024

Objective

Children with disabilities and their families continue to face challenges in social inclusion and accessing resources. This study aimed to evaluate the availability and associated challenges of using services for these children and their families.

Methods

A descriptive study was conducted to analyze social services for children with disabilities. Data were collected from the official websites of both public and private institutions across three regions in South Korea. These data included information on the service contents and the characteristics of the target beneficiaries.

Results

A total of 12,841 service units were analyzed and grouped into 10 domains and 35 categories of social services. The most frequently identified service content was “Healthcare,” followed by “Child and family care” and “Community services.” The most frequently used characteristic of target beneficiaries was “Residential area,” followed by “Income level,” “Benefit,” and “Type of disability.”

Conclusion

The current services are limited in meeting the needs of children with disabilities, particularly in terms of selection criteria, service content, and the integration of policies and delivery systems, contributing to a lack of social inclusion and lower quality of life. Constructing a national scheme to expand eligibility and support tailored to individual circumstances and needs is necessary.
Risk Factors of Hepatitis Associated With Time to Adopting a New Cancer Screening Model Under Diffusion of Innovation Theory—A 10‐Year Cohort Study in Taiwan
Authors: Lien Angela Shin‐Yu , Chiu Sherry Yueh‐Hsia , Fann Jean Ching‐Yuan , Chen Sam Li‐Sheng , Yen Amy Ming‐Fang , Chen Hsiu‐Hsi
Published: October 2024

Background

Hepatitis is a serious global health issue. To reduce mortality, early screening for liver disease has been recommended in community health policies, particularly for asymptomatic individuals.

Aim

This study explored the link between liver function biomarkers and how quickly people adopt a new multiple cancer screening program, using the diffusion of innovation (DOI) Theory.

Methods

The study included 57,939 participants from a community‐based screening program in Keelung, Taiwan, between January 1, 2001, and December 31, 2010. Data on demographics and lifestyle habits were collected through questionnaires, and blood samples were analyzed to measure biomarkers related to liver function.

Results

On average, participants took 3.48 years to accept the new screening program. People with healthier lifestyles, such as those who drank alcohol less often, were more likely to adopt the screening early. Additionally, those with higher levels of liver‐related biomarkers like albumin, total protein, and ALT joined even sooner. In conclusion, using DOI theory, the study found that personal lifestyle and liver function play a role in how quickly individuals adopt a new screening system.

Conclusion

These insights can help healthcare providers improve early screening efforts, particularly for people at risk of hepatitis and liver cancer, potentially reducing related deaths.
Assessment of Compliance Status and Its Determinants Among Hypertensive Patients From County Areas in Zhejiang, China: A Cross‐Sectional Study
Authors: Zhou Chi , Chen Jingchun , Li Chen , Shen Wenli , Li Xu , Shi Yinan , Yang Shuangyu , Weng Yuanyuan , Wu Dan , Huang Jingyu , Zhao Falin
Published: October 2024

Objectives

Compliance is crucial for patients to control and manage their high blood pressure. This study assesses the compliance levels of hypertensive patients in China and explores the factors influencing compliance.

Design

A descriptive, cross‐sectional design was conducted.

Sample

A total of 371 hypertensive patients were recruited from six County hospitals and 12 township health centers in Zhejiang Province, China.

Measure

Patient compliance was measured using the Hypertensive Patient Scale (CHPS). Independent‐sample T‐test or variance analysis was applied to analyze CHPS scores by sociodemographic factors, and linear regression was used to explore the significant correlates of the total CHPS score.

Results

The total score of CHPS was 50.18 ± 6.12. Among the seven domains, drug treatment and lifestyle had the highest and lowest average scores, 3.59 ± 0.87 and 2.74 ± 0.73, respectively. The total score of CHPS positively associated with age (β = 0.075, p = 0.028), > 7 years of hypertension (β = 1.896, p = 0.022; Ref: < 3 years), and negatively associated with males (β = −2.224, p = 0.001; Ref: female) and rural area (β = −2.008, p = 0.007; Ref: urban area).

Conclusion:

These findings highlight the importance of related measurements of the local “health‐oriented” healthcare system. Primary health professionals should strengthen their health behavior intervention capacity and improve hypertension management among their patients.
Eckhart y Heidegger: diálogo silencioso en la búsqueda de lo sagrado
Authors: Flores Olague Roberto Gerardo
Published: October 2024

La relación entre la filosofía y la mística pareciese complicada y que no tendría lugar en las discusiones académicas, especialmente en pleno siglo xxi. Lo anterior es, sin duda, un error, porque han existido importantes filósofos que han incursionado y hablado sobre los misterios de la mística. En este artículo se verá que, a pesar de las diferencias, hay similitudes entre la experiencia mística y la filosofía, puntos de unión y de retroalimentación, especialmente haciendo referencia a la importancia del silencio como un elemento inherente a la experiencia de lo sagrado. El Maestro Eckhart, filósofo y teólogo de la Baja Edad Media, y Martin Heidegger, exponente de la filosofía contemporánea, serán quienes nos hagan ver que la filosofía tiene atisbos de mística, y esta última no está tan alejada de la primera como se ha querido pronunciar axiomáticamente en la modernidad.
Offline Reinforcement Learning for Adaptive Control in Manufacturing Processes: A Press Hardening Case Study
Authors: Nievas Nuria , Espinosa-Leal Leonardo , Pagès-Bernaus Adela , Abio Albert , Echeverria Lluís , Bonada Francesc
Published: October 2024

This paper explores the application of offline reinforcement learning in batch manufacturing, with a specific focus on press hardening processes. Offline reinforcement learning presents a viable alternative to traditional control and reinforcement learning methods, which often rely on impractical real-world interactions or complex simulations and iterative adjustments to bridge the gap between simulated and real-world environments. We demonstrate how offline reinforcement learning can improve control policies by leveraging existing data, thereby streamlining the training pipeline and reducing reliance on high-fidelity simulators. Our study evaluates the impact of varying data exploration rates by creating five datasets with exploration rates ranging from ε=0 to ε=0.8. Using the conservative Q-learning algorithm, we train and assess policies against both a dynamic baseline and a static industry-standard policy. The results indicate that while offline reinforcement learning effectively refines behavior policies and enhances supervised learning methods, its effectiveness is heavily dependent on the quality and exploratory nature of the initial behavior policy.
Harnessing Bayesian Deep Learning to Tackle Unseen and Uncertain Scenarios in Diagnosis of Machinery Systems
Authors: Kai Zhou , Zhou Qianyu , Tang Jiong
Published: October 2024

Direct inverse analysis of faults in machinery systems such as gears using first principle is intrinsically difficult, owing to the multiple time- and length-scales involved in vibration modeling. As such, data-driven approaches have been the mainstream, whereas supervised trainings are deemed effective. Nevertheless, existing techniques often fall short in their ability to generalize from discrete data labels to the continuous spectrum of possible faults, which is further compounded by various uncertainties. This research proposes an interpretability-enhanced deep learning framework that incorporates Bayesian principles, effectively transforming convolutional neural networks (CNNs) into dynamic predictive models and significantly amplifying their generalizability with more accessible insights of the model's reasoning processes. Our approach is distinguished by a novel implementation of Bayesian inference, enabling the navigation of the probabilistic nuances of gear fault severities. By integrating variational inference into the deep learning architecture, we present a methodology that excels in leveraging limited data labels to reveal insights into both observed and unobserved fault conditions. This approach improves the model's capacity for uncertainty estimation and probabilistic generalization. Experimental validation on a lab-scale gear setup demonstrated the framework's superior performance, achieving nearly 100% accuracy in classifying known fault conditions, even in the presence of significant noise, and maintaining 96.15% accuracy when dealing with unseen fault severities. These results underscore the method's capability in discovering implicit relations between known and unseen faults, facilitating extended fault diagnosis, and effectively managing large degrees of measurement uncertainties.
Weld Seam Recognition and Tracking With Omnidirectional Wall-Climbing Robot for Spherical Tank Inspection
Authors: Li Jie , Tu Chunlei , Xu Fengyu , Wang Xingsong
Published: October 2024

Weld seams of in-service pressure storage equipment, such as spherical tanks, require regular inspection to ensure safe operation. Wall-climbing robots can replace manual operations, increasing inspection efficiency and reducing maintenance costs. High precision and fast weld seam identification and tracking are beneficial for improving the automated navigation and spatial positioning of wall-climbing robots. This study proposes a weld seam recognition and tracking method with the omnidirectional wall-climbing robot for spherical tank inspection. Based on deep learning networks, the robot has a front-mounted camera to recognize weld seams and extract weld paths. Weld seam deviation data (drift angle and offset distance) were used in real time to provide feedback on the robot's relative position. For the robot to quickly correct deviations and track weld seams, a seam path-tracking controller based on sliding mode control was designed and simulated. Weld recognition experiments revealed that the robot can accurately recognize and extract weld paths, and the recognition time for each image was approximately 0.25 s. In the weld seam tracking experiments, the robot could successfully track longitudinal and transverse weld seams at different speeds (from 0.05 to 0.2 m/s). During the process of weld seam tracking, the robot angle error was kept within ±3 deg, and the maximum offset distance was less than ±35 mm. Field tests on a 3000-m3 spherical tank were conducted to verify the practicability and effectiveness of the weld seam tracking system. This robotic system can autonomously complete weld seam identification and tracking, which promotes the automation of spherical tank inspection and maintenance.
Three species of the water mite family Torrenticolidae (Acari: Hydrachnidia) from Tibet, P. R. China
Authors: Gu Xinyao , Jiang Xin , Zeng Xiangming , Li Hai-tao , Guo Jianjun
Published: October 2024

This paper deals with two new species of Torrenticolidae (Acari, Hydrachnidia) from Tibet, P. R. China, i.e., Torrenticola serratiextension Gu & Guo, sp. nov., Monatractides tuberocapitulum Gu & Guo, sp. nov. Meanwhile, the male of T. anziensis Gu & Guo, 2019 is reported for the first time. This is the first report of Torrenticolidae from Tibet, P. R. China.
Twin-free thermal laser epitaxy of Si on sapphire
Authors: Smart Thomas J. , Kim Dong Yeong , Braun Wolfgang
Published: October 2024

The heteroepitaxial growth of silicon (Si) is essential for modern electronics. Our study investigates the potential of thermal laser epitaxy (TLE) for Si epitaxy. A systematic study on the evaporation behavior of Si during TLE identifies and addresses the causes of notable flux rate fluctuations, resulting in a Si flux with ±0.3% stability over time. We also demonstrate heteroepitaxy of Si on c-plane sapphire substrates via TLE. High-temperature substrate preparation combined with deposition at a substrate temperature of 1000 °C produced high-quality epitaxial Si (111) films without twin domains.
Influence of atmospheric state on variability of long-term residual ambient sound level measurements in a subalpine valley
Authors: Betchkal Davyd H. , Hug Andrew W.
Published: October 2024

Two natural influences on the acoustic environments of mountainous parks and communities are flowing water and shifting weather. A central purpose of the acoustic measurement design used by the United States National Park Service is to provide spectral estimates of residual ambient sound level metrics at a seasonal time scale. Acoustic monitoring sampling methodologies are often designed using a sequence of similar measurements. When source and residual ambient spectra overlap, an estimate of variability in the latter is beneficial to successful monitoring design. The observed and modelled effects of atmospheric state on sound level are analyzed to reveal variability due to these effects at a long-term monitoring site in Denali National Park, Alaska. The analysis of variability incorporates a covariate that is otherwise challenging to estimate in remote settings: vertical temperature gradients in the atmospheric boundary layer. Results reveal inversions (positive gradients) in the atmosphere ≥30% between 19:00 and 09:00. Inversion strengths above 0.06 °C/m are associated with 10–15 dB increases in sound level over hourly time scales. Because inversions tend to occur during otherwise quiescent times of day, they ultimately reduce seasonal variability at the site and corresponding uncertainty in noise metrics for transportation noise arriving from varied directions.
Direct measurements of sediment geoacoustic properties in the New England Mud Patch and shelf break
Authors: Ballard Megan S. , Garcia Dante D. , Lee Kevin M. , Venegas Gabriel R. , McNeese Andrew R. , Wilson Preston S. , Chaytor Jason D.
Published: October 2024

This paper reports on an original set of direct sound speed measurements collected with the acoustic coring system in the New England Mud Patch (NEMP) and shelf break area to the south. Cores collected within the NEMP show range-dependence of the mud with slower sound speed and lower attenuation on the west side. In the shelf break region, the highest sound speeds are observed between the 200- and 350-m isobaths. The depth-dependence of the mud layer in the NEMP includes a surficial layer with a negative sound speed gradient of 28 s−1. The remainder of the mud column has a weak positive sound speed gradient of 6.2 s−1 over an isovelocity layer. Comparison between in situ and ex situ sound speed measurements provides an assessment of the effects of sediment disturbance from gravity coring operations. Small differences in the upper 2.5 m were attributed to the changes in the geoacoustic properties caused by disturbance from the coring process. Below 2.5 m, the average difference is close to zero, suggesting that these sediments were minimally disturbed. Finally, an in situ measurement of shear speed was obtained near the depth of maximum penetration. The shear speed was well correlated with sound speed from approximately the same depth interval.
Enchondroma in a Collegiate Division II Women’s Acrobatics and Tumbling Athlete: A Level 4 Case Report
Authors: Minter Rebekah L. , Lopez Rebecca M. , Myers Jessica M. , Tritsch Amanda J.
Published: October 2024

A 19-year-old collegiate female acrobatics and tumbling athlete presented with deep shooting pain in her right thigh during impact activities. Diagnostic imaging revealed a 12-mm enchondroma in her right proximal femoral metadiaphysis. After 10 days of rest, the patient began gradually increasing the intensity of impact skills and completed the remainder of the acrobatics and tumbling season. This is the first reported case of an enchondroma in the proximal femoral metadiaphysis in a young athlete. Athletic trainers must use clinical reasoning skills and interprofessional collaboration when managing atypical presentations to improve patient care and promote a positive recovery after injury.
Human-driven evolution of color in a stonefly mimic
Authors: Ni Steven , McCulloch Graham A. , Kroos Gracie C. , King Tania M. , Dutoit Ludovic , Foster Brodie J. , Hema Kahu , Jandt Jennifer M. , Peng Mei , Dearden Peter K. , Waters Jonathan M.
Published: October 2024

Rapid adaptation is thought to be critical for the survival of species under global change, but our understanding of human-induced evolution in the wild remains limited. We show that widespread deforestation has underpinned repeated color shifts in wild insect populations. Specifically, loss of forest has led to color changes across lineages that mimic the warning coloration of a toxic forest stonefly. Predation experiments suggest that the relative fitness of color phenotypes varies between forested and deforested habitats. Genomic and coloration analyses of 1200 specimens show repeated selection at the
ebony
locus controlling color polymorphism across lineages. These findings represent an example of human-driven evolution linked to altered species interactions, highlighting the possibility for populations to adapt rapidly in the wake of sudden environmental change.
In Other Journals
Authors: Seale Madeleine , Vignieri Sacha , Funk Michael A. , Maroso Mattia , Stajic Jelena , Wible Brad , Ash Caroline
Published: October 2024

Editors’ selections from the current scientific literature
Therapeutic effect of topical tamoxifen in murine cutaneous leishmaniasis caused by
Leishmania major
Authors: Hassani-Abharian Parastoo , Hejazi Dehaghani Seyedamirmehdi , Shahmoradi Zabihollah , Hejazi Seyed Hossein
Published: October 2024

Iran is one of the endemic regions of cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) caused by
Leishmania major
. There is no protective vaccine available against CL available, and the most effective strategy is a definitive treatment. Topical medications can be an excellent option for this purpose. Tamoxifen, a cancer control drug, has properties such as inducing cell apoptosis and anti-parasitic activity, which can be useful in controlling eukaryotic parasites such as
Leishmania
. The present study was conducted to investigate this theory in experimental CL caused by
L. major
. Forty female BALB/c mice aged 4 to 6 weeks were infected by injecting 1 × 10
6
L. major
metacyclics (MRHO/IR/75/ER) in the base of the tail. After the appearance of
Leishmania
nodules, mice were divided into five test and control groups. Two drug formulations were used: tamoxifen 1% in ethanol and tamoxifen citrate ointment 0.1%. The effectiveness of each formula was evaluated by determining the mean size of the ulcers and parasite burden after a 28-day treatment period. Both formulations showed reduced ulcer mean sizes. However, only the tamoxifen citrate ointment group demonstrated a statistically significant reduction (
P
= 0.049). The parasite burden decreased by 40.83% for the ointment group and 33.67% for the ethanol solution. Other control groups showed lesser reductions. This study partially demonstrated the effectiveness of topical tamoxifen on CL lesions in a murine model. It can provide a basis for further research on the therapeutic effects of different topical tamoxifen formulations.
The structure of lipopeptides impacts their antiviral activity and mode of action against SARS-CoV-2
in vitro
Authors: Hoste Alexis C. R. , Smeralda Willy , Cugnet Aurélien , Brostaux Yves , Deleu Magali , Garigliany Mutien , Jacques Philippe
Published: October 2024

Microbial lipopeptides are synthesized by nonribosomal peptide synthetases and are composed of a hydrophobic fatty acid chain and a hydrophilic peptide moiety. These structurally diverse amphiphilic molecules can interact with biological membranes and possess various biological activities, including antiviral properties. This study aimed to evaluate the cytotoxicity and antiviral activity against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) of 15 diverse lipopeptides to understand their structure-activity relationships. Non-ionic lipopeptides were generally more cytotoxic than charged ones, with cationic lipopeptides being less cytotoxic than anionic and non-ionic variants. At 100 µg/mL, six lipopeptides reduced SARS-CoV-2 RNA to undetectable levels in infected Vero E6 cells, while six others achieved a 2.5- to 4.1-log reduction, and three had no significant effect. Surfactin, white line-inducing principle (WLIP), fengycin, and caspofungin emerged as the most promising anti-SARS-CoV-2 agents. Detailed analysis revealed that these four lipopeptides affected various stages of the viral life cycle involving the viral envelope. Surfactin and WLIP significantly reduced viral RNA levels in replication assays, comparable to neutralizing serum. Surfactin uniquely inhibited viral budding, while fengycin impacted viral binding after pre-infection treatment of the cells. Caspofungin demonstrated a lower antiviral effect compared to the others. Key structural traits of lipopeptides influencing their cytotoxic and antiviral activities were identified. Lipopeptides with a high number of amino acids, especially charged (preferentially anionic) amino acids, showed potent anti-SARS-CoV-2 activity. This research paves the way for designing new lipopeptides with low cytotoxicity and high antiviral efficacy, potentially leading to effective treatments.

IMPORTANCE

This study advances our understanding of how lipopeptides, which are molecules mostly produced by bacteria, with both fat and protein components, can be used to fight viruses like severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). By analyzing 15 different lipopeptides, researchers identified key structural features that make some of these molecules particularly effective at reducing viral levels while being less harmful to cells. Specifically, lipopeptides with certain charged amino acids were found to have the strongest antiviral effects. This research lays the groundwork for developing new antiviral treatments that are both potent against viruses and safe for human cells, offering hope for better therapeutic options in the future.
Environment, plant genetics, and their interaction shape important aspects of sunflower rhizosphere microbial communities
Authors: Bueno de Mesquita Clifton P. , Walsh Corinne M. , Attia Ziv , Koehler Brady D. , Tarble Zachary J. , Van Tassel David L. , Kane Nolan C. , Hulke Brent S.
Published: October 2024

Associations with soil microorganisms are crucial for plants’ overall health and functioning. While much work has been done to understand drivers of rhizosphere microbiome structure and function, the relative importance of geography, climate, soil properties, and plant genetics remains unclear, as results have been mixed and comprehensive studies across many sites and genotypes are limited. Rhizosphere microbiomes are crucial for crop resistance to pathogens, stress tolerance, nutrient availability, and ultimately yield. Here, we quantify the relative roles of plant genotype, environment, and their interaction in shaping soil rhizosphere communities, using 16S and ITS gene sequencing of rhizosphere soils from 10 genotypes of cultivated sunflower (
Helianthus annuus
) at 15 sites across the Great Plains of the United States. While site generally outweighed genotype overall in terms of effects on archaeal, bacterial, and fungal richness, community composition, and taxa relative abundances, there was also a significant interaction such that genotype exerted a significant influence on archaeal, bacterial, and fungal microbiomes in certain sites. Site effects were attributed to a combination of spatial distance and differences in climate and soil properties. Microbial taxa that were previously associated with resistance to the fungal necrotrophic pathogen
Sclerotinia
were present in most sites but differed significantly in relative abundance across sites. Our results have implications for plant breeding and agronomic microbiome manipulations for agricultural improvement across different geographic regions.

IMPORTANCE

Despite the importance of plant breeding in agriculture, we still have a limited understanding of how plant genetic variation shapes soil microbiome composition across broad geographic regions. Using 15 sites across the Great Plains of North America, we show that cultivated sunflower rhizosphere archaeal, bacterial, and fungal communities are driven primarily by site soil and climatic differences, but genotype can interact with site to influence the composition, especially in warmer and drier sites with lower overall microbial richness. We also show that all taxa that were previously found to be associated with resistance to the fungal pathogen
Sclerotinia sclerotiorum
were widespread but significantly affected by site, while a subset was also significantly affected by genotype. Our results contribute to a broader understanding of rhizosphere archaeal, bacterial, and fungal community assembly and provide foundational knowledge for plant breeding efforts and potential future microbiome manipulations in agriculture.
Environmental alkalization suppresses deployment of virulence strategies in
Pseudomonas syringae
pv.
tomato
DC3000
Authors: Yang Zichu , Wang Haibi , Keebler Robert , Lovelace Amelia , Chen Hsiao-Chun , Kvitko Brian , Swingle Bryan
Published: October 2024

Plant pathogenic bacteria encounter a drastic increase in apoplastic pH during the early stages of plant immunity. The effects of alkalization on pathogen-host interactions have not been comprehensively characterized. Here, we used a global transcriptomic approach to assess the impact of environmental alkalization on
Pseudomonas syringae
pv.
tomato
DC3000
in vitro
. In addition to the Type 3 Secretion System, we found expression of genes encoding other virulence factors such as iron uptake and coronatine biosynthesis to be strongly affected by environmental alkalization. We also found that the activity of AlgU, an important regulator of virulence gene expression, was induced at pH 5.5 and suppressed at pH 7.8, which are pH levels that this pathogen would likely experience before and during pattern-triggered immunity, respectively. This pH-dependent control requires the presence of periplasmic proteases, AlgW and MucP, that function as part of the environmental sensing system that activates AlgU in specific conditions. This is the first example of pH-dependency of AlgU activity, suggesting a regulatory pathway model where pH affects the proteolysis-dependent activation of AlgU. These results contribute to deeper understanding of the role apoplastic pH has on host-pathogen interactions.

IMPORTANCE

Plant pathogenic bacteria, like
Pseudomonas syringae
, encounter many environmental changes including oxidative stress and alkalization during plant immunity, but the ecological effects of the individual responses are not well understood. In this study, we found that transcription of many previously characterized virulence factors in
P. syringae
pv.
tomato
DC3000 is downregulated by the level of environmental alkalization these bacteria encounter during the early stages of plant immune activation. We also report for the first time the sigma factor AlgU is post-translationally activated by low environmental pH through its natural activation pathway, which partially accounts for the expression Type 3 Secretion System virulence genes at acidic pH. The results of this study demonstrate the importance of extracellular pH on global regulation of virulence-related gene transcription in plant pathogenic bacteria.