bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chironomid farming in consideration of various physicochemical parameters and reuse of condensate water
Authors: Nath Susanta , Samanta Shreya
Published: May 2024

Larvae of chironomids are benthic organisms, having the extreme capability to adapt to the changing physicochemical parameters of the aquatic body and the potentiality to accommodate that adverse situation. In spite of the demand for chironomid larvae as fish food, no proper technique of chironomid farming has been reported till today. This instance encourages the research on farming these larvae, in both open and captive settings. The present research shows a good result all over the year, with seasonal variance along with changing physicochemical parameters. This farming is based on minimal space requirements, reuse of condensate water, and the application of a low‐cost diet, resulting in enormous production of this insect. Thus, it can be placed as a small‐scale industry to uplift the economic status of rural people. A nutritious diet for both carnivorous and omnivorous fish and low‐cost farming with a huge production of these larvae is good for the fish industry as well.
Impact of health insurance education program on health care professional students: An interventional study
Authors: Barr Emily , Gantz Hannah Y. , Russell Greg , Hanchate Amresh
Published: May 2024

In the complex landscape of health care, the relationship between medical practice and health insurance is increasingly crucial for effective care delivery. This paper emphasises the importance of integrating health insurance education into medical training, focusing on its impact on patient outcomes, health care accessibility, and system sustainability. It posits that health care providers with a comprehensive understanding of health insurance can offer more informed, efficient care by adeptly navigating coverage complexities. The study utilised a pretest‐post‐test design with a yearlong health insurance education curriculum at Wake Forest University School of Medicine. Student participants from various medical programmes self‐assessed their knowledge and comfort across 13 health insurance topics before and after the intervention. The curriculum included workshops and a capstone project, emphasising real‐life patient insurance challenges. Results show statistically significant improvements in 13 participants' understanding of health insurance concepts, highlighting the curriculum's effectiveness. The findings advocate for the inclusion of health insurance education in medical curricula. Such knowledge is vital in systems with diverse insurance models, like the United States, where understanding insurance intricacies is key to patient care. The study's limitations, such as a small sample size and reliance on self‐reported data, suggest the need for further research with more participants and objective measures. In conclusion, incorporating health insurance education into medical training is essential for preparing health care professionals to navigate insurance complexities, make informed treatment decisions, and guide patients effectively. This approach fosters well‐rounded professionals capable of managing both medical and financial aspects of patient care, leading to more equitable and efficient health care delivery. Future research should explore the long‐term effects of this education on clinical practice and patient outcomes, particularly its impact on health care costs and patient satisfaction.
Impact of transport conditions and underlying disease on post‐stocking survival of juvenile Lates calcarifer
Authors: Chew Xian Zhe , Carrai Maura , Shen Xueyan , Gibson‐Kueh Susan
Published: May 2024

Diseases caused by pathogens commonly occurring in the aquatic environment or those that are non‐host specific are prevalent and threaten the rapid growth of tropical aquaculture. This study investigates causes of mortality in 12 batches of newly stocked juvenile Lates calcarifer from three different hatcheries. Cytology based on Diff‐Quik™‐stained tissue and blood smears provides rapid diagnosis of possible causes of mortality, while histopathology and haematology provide a better understanding of how prolonged transport and fish with existing chronic disease are more likely to experience elevated mortality post‐stocking. Our findings showed that accumulation of ammonia during prolonged transport causes extensive damage to epithelial barriers in gastrointestinal tracts and depressed immunity due to marked hypoglycaemia, predisposing fish to acute Streptococcosis. Lates calcarifer with chronic bacterial enteritis developed severe hypoglycaemia, had low circulating total plasma protein, and suffered high mortality within 24 hours post‐stocking. Hypoglycaemia and low circulating blood proteins disrupt osmoregulation and exacerbate dehydration, which is fatal in fish in sea water. Dying L. calcarifer tested PCR positive for scale drop disease virus (SDDV) at 28 days post‐stocking showed a 10‐fold elevation of white blood cell counts, severe vasculitis, and obstruction of blood supply to major organs. Destruction of important immune organs such as spleen is a hallmark of SDDV infection that explains high incidences of opportunistic Vibrio harveyi infections in 61% of fish with SDDV. Overall, this study reiterates the importance of stocking disease‐free fish and reducing transport stress.
Reconsidering the Fed's Inflation Forecasting Advantage
Authors: GUISINGER AMY Y. , MCCRACKEN MICHAEL W. , OWYANG MICHAEL T.
Published: May 2024

Previous studies show the Fed has a forecast advantage over the private sector for inflation. We evaluate this advantage to determine how much of it results from the Fed's knowledge of future monetary policy. To do so, we develop two methods of equalizing the Fed's and private sector's information sets. We find that Fed forecasts do not encompass those of the private sector when the latter has knowledge of future monetary policy. Furthermore, we find that roughly 25% of the difference between the Fed's and the private sector's mean squared forecast error can be explained by monetary policy.
Earn More Tomorrow: Overconfidence, Income Expectations, and Consumer Indebtedness
Authors: GROHMANN ANTONIA , MENKHOFF LUKAS , MERKLE CHRISTOPH , SCHMACKER RENKE
Published: May 2024

This paper examines whether biased income expectations due to overconfidence lead to higher levels of debt taking. We show suggestive evidence for a link between overconfidence and borrowing behavior in a representative survey of German households (German Socio‐Economic Panel–Innovation Sample [GSOEP‐IS]). This motivates a laboratory experiment to study causality behind these effects. In two experiments, participants can purchase goods by borrowing against their future income. We exogenously manipulate overconfidence about income expectations by letting income depend on relative performance in hard and easy quiz tasks. In the main experiment, we successfully generate biased income expectations and show that participants with higher income expectations initially borrow more. Overconfident participants scale back their consumption after income feedback. However, they remain in higher debt at the end of the experiment, which has real financial consequences. In a robustness experiment, we rule out that overborrowing is driven by low prices of goods. Even though the expected income manipulation works less well in this experiment, debt‐taking behavior is very similar and correlates with income expectations and overconfidence.
Authoritarian liquid transgressions: the case of P&O Ferries
Authors: KATSAROUMPAS IOANNIS
Published: May 2024

On 17 March 2022, P&O Ferries summarily dismissed 786 seafarers without notice or consultation in a clear and openly admitted transgression of legality, but two months later its parent company's chief executive officer claimed that ‘nobody was hurt’. Drawing on the work of Zygmunt Bauman and Alain Supiot, this article offers a critical account of the scandal based on three main arguments. First, it develops the new concept of an ‘authoritarian liquid transgression’ (ALT), defined as a transgression of a democratic legal norm that seeks to leave no trace or excess (that which resists immediate liquefaction), thus aiming at complete erasure. Second, it argues that the P&O event is a paradigmatic example of an attempted ALT by dissecting three main steps in the business strategy (liquefaction, effacement, and simulation) but also traces competing privatized and politicized narratives of its excess. Third, the article suggests that the event will be viewed as a liminal event for the United Kingdom's authoritarian neoliberalism since it acted as a window that offered a brief glimpse of the brutal nature of authoritarian neoliberalism at work but also of an alternative solid construction of labour law and its remedial framework.
Green Screening: Firm Environmental Strategy Amidst Policy Implementation Uncertainty in the European Union
Authors: Kim Eun‐Hee , Hiatt Shon R. , Zhou Y. Maggie
Published: May 2024

We examine how firms can strategically respond to policy implementation uncertainty by screening communication exchanges between policy‐implementing agencies and their policy‐formulating political principals. These exchanges can be viewed as a signal of the agencies’ commitment to policy implementation. The costlier the agency's communication, the stronger the expected implementation and the likelier that firms will commit to long‐term, irreversible investments prior to the actual implementation of the policy. We test these hypotheses empirically by examining the investments made by European electric power companies in new renewable energy facilities from 2004 to 2009 and associating these investments with the communication between country agencies and the European Union Commission upon the latter's resolution to establish a greenhouse gas emissions trading scheme.
Constructing a World for Compassion: How Temporal Work Can Preserve Compassion in Extreme Contexts
Authors: del Rio M. Dolores , Fernández Pablo D. , Marti Ignasi , Willi Alberto
Published: May 2024

This article extends previous research on how compassion can be preserved in extreme contexts, highlighting the phenomenological experience of time in practices. Based on an ethnographic study of hospice care, we show how temporal work preserves compassion by enacting the end‐of‐life as a time of agency, a liminal time between the past (life) and an undesirable and certain future (death) that shifts focus to here and now actions. Taking a Heideggerian approach to the lived experience of compassion, we understand the hospice as a world where different ways of being are implicated in practices organized through existential spatiality (being with the guest and being by the guest). We show how exposure to people in end‐of‐life affects the experience of time in compassion practices, allowing them to be experienced as kairos, involving sacredness and spiritual connectedness with others, and as chronos, allowing compassion‐givers to restore their capacity by focusing on compassion tasks.
How do visual, auditory and motor dual‐tasking each affect swallowing and chewing function?
Authors: Begen Sena Nur , Serel Arslan Selen
Published: May 2024

Background

It can be challenging to perform a second task at the same time as swallowing.

Objective(s)

The study aimed to investigate the effect of visual, auditory and motor dual‐tasking on swallowing and chewing function in healthy young adults.

Method

Right‐handed healthy adults without any psychological and cognitive problems were included in the study. Swallowing was evaluated based on the dysphagia limit in different liquid textures such as water and nectar consistencies, and chewing was evaluated by the Test of Masticating and Swallowing Solids. For the second task, visual and auditory performance was assessed using reaction time, and the motor performance was assessed using a bilateral tapping task. Assessments were performed in two steps: baseline and dual‐task. For baseline, all evaluation methods were applied individually. After completing the baseline assessment, dual‐task assessment were carried out the following day. For dual‐task assessment, the swallowing and chewing tasks were performed simultaneously with visual, auditory and motor tasks.

Results

Results showed a significant decrease in dysphagia limit in the nectar consistency, and significant increase in chewing time, visual reaction time and tapping rate (right–left) when compared to baseline and dual‐task conditions (χ2(3) = 9.61, p = .02; χ2(3) = 9.02, p = .02; χ2(3) = 28.09, p < .001; χ2(3) = 28.97, p < .001; χ2(3) = 21.56, p < .001, respectively). However, there were no differences in dysphagia limit in the water and auditory reaction time compared to baseline and dual‐task conditions (χ2(3) = 3.18, p = .36; χ2(3) = 2.56, p = .50, respectively).

Conclusion

Results shedding light on how simultaneous dual tasks can influence swallowing and chewing. Dual‐tasking cause a decrease in both swallowing/chewing and the visual/motor performances. These results may provide valuable information for designing interventions or strategies aimed at improving or maintaining optimal swallowing and chewing during in various populations during daily life.
Inter‐ and intraspecific stomatal morphological traits vary in response to topographic habitat changes
Authors: Zhao Hang , Zhu Weilin , Qu Mengjun , Wang Jianming , Shao Shuai , Lei Xun , Li Jingwen
Published: May 2024

Questions

Stomata can reflect the plant's adaptation to environmental changes. However, the variation patterns of stomatal traits across different habitats and their relationships with environmental drivers are still poorly understood. Here, we assessed the extent of interspecific and intraspecific variation in stomatal traits in two typical riparian forests, and investigated how stomatal traits adapt to habitat change as well as trait–environment relationships.

Location

The Irtysh River Basin in China.

Methods

We measured the stomatal density (SD), stomatal size (SS), and stomatal relative area (SRA) of dominant plant species from two riparian forests: (1) a riparian forest in the valley and (2) a riparian forest in the pediment plain. We analyzed the stomatal trait variation patterns of dominant plant species in different habitats. We then quantified the magnitude of intraspecific and interspecific stomatal trait variability and evaluated the relationships between stomatal traits and environmental factors.

Results

We found that SD and SRA were significantly higher in pediment plain forests than in valley forests, whereas SS was not significantly different between these habitats. The SD and SRA of trees in pediment plain forests were significantly higher than those in valley forests, whereas there were no significant differences in understory plants between habitats. The interspecific variation in each stomatal trait was significantly higher than the intraspecific variation. Stomatal traits were more related to the soil environment than to climatic factors.

Conclusions

Response strategies of stomatal traits to habitat changes differed between species and functional groups, and trait–environment relationships depended on the habitat type of the riparian forest. Our analysis of stomata trait variation implies adaptive strategies in species of natural riparian forest. Insights into trait–environment relationships could be used to predict carbon and water cycling, and vegetation changes in riparian forests of arid regions, especially in the context of climate change.
Assessing the regional impacts of a multi‐hosting mega sport event: The case of EURO 2020 in Rome
Authors: Deriu Stefano , Socci Claudio , Di Bartolomeo Giovanni , Ciccarone Giuseppe , Almonti Ludovica
Published: May 2024

UEFA EURO 2020 is the first multi‐hosting mega‐event developed on the entire continent. Often, mega‐events concentrated in one place have turned out to have a modest, or adverse, economic impact due to high costs. Therefore, the ex‐post assessment of the local impact of the four matches played in Rome as a mega‐event is an interesting case study. To this end, we use a Computable General Equilibrium model based on the Lazio regional Social Accounting Matrix. We estimate a significant Gross Domestic Product multiplier at around 1.45. Furthermore, in terms of employment, the event generates an additional net volume equivalent to 9762 full‐time jobs per year.
Coccidioidomycosis in Oklahoma: A retrospective case series
Authors: Scott Brian , Sassine Joseph , Gordon Olivia , Agudelo Higuita Nelson Iván
Published: May 2024

Background

Coccidioidomycosis is a systemic fungal disease endemic to arid regions of the Western Hemisphere. In the south‐western US, Coccidioides spp. may account for up to 20%–25% of all cases of community acquired pneumonia. Clinical manifestations vary widely, from asymptomatic infection to life‐threatening disease, especially in immunocompromised hosts.

Objectives

The primary objective of the study was to characterise cases of coccidioidomycosis in an area of the United States not considered traditionally endemic for the disease.

Methods

We performed a single‐centre retrospective study of all cases of coccidioidomycosis from 1 January 2000 to 31 December 2020, in the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Medical Center.

Results

A total of 26 patients were included for analysis. The central nervous system (CNS) and the lungs were the sites most frequently involved. Twenty (77%) had travelled to a coccidioidomycosis endemic region. Most were male (81%) with a median age of 42 years (range: 3–78 years). The majority (46%) were Caucasians, 19% were African American, 19% Hispanic, and 12% Native American. The most common comorbidities were diabetes mellitus and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, identified in 27% and 23% of patients, respectively. Patients on immunosuppressive therapy accounted for 12% of all cases.

Conclusion

Our study is one of the largest single‐centre case series of coccidioidomycosis from a non‐endemic area. Diabetes mellitus was the most frequent comorbidity. Compared to other case series of coccidioidomycosis, our patient population had higher rates of immunosuppression and had both a higher rate of disseminated disease and overall mortality.
The role of phenomics and genomics in delineating the genetic basis of complex traits in millets
Authors: Jadhav Yashoda , Thakur Niranjan Ravindra , Ingle Krishnananda Pralhad , Ceasar Stanislaus Antony
Published: May 2024

Millets, comprising a diverse group of small‐seeded grains, have emerged as vital crops with immense nutritional, environmental, and economic significance. The comprehension of complex traits in millets, influenced by multifaceted genetic determinants, presents a compelling challenge and opportunity in agricultural research. This review delves into the transformative roles of phenomics and genomics in deciphering these intricate genetic architectures. On the phenomics front, high‐throughput platforms generate rich datasets on plant morphology, physiology, and performance in diverse environments. This data, coupled with field trials and controlled conditions, helps to interpret how the environment interacts with genetics. Genomics provides the underlying blueprint for these complex traits. Genome sequencing and genotyping technologies have illuminated the millet genome landscape, revealing diverse gene pools and evolutionary relationships. Additionally, different omics approaches unveil the intricate information of gene expression, protein function, and metabolite accumulation driving phenotypic expression. This multi‐omics approach is crucial for identifying candidate genes and unfolding the intricate pathways governing complex traits. The review highlights the synergy between phenomics and genomics. Genomically informed phenotyping targets specific traits, reducing the breeding size and cost. Conversely, phenomics identifies promising germplasm for genomic analysis, prioritizing variants with superior performance. This dynamic interplay accelerates breeding programs and facilitates the development of climate‐smart, nutrient‐rich millet varieties and hybrids. In conclusion, this review emphasizes the crucial roles of phenomics and genomics in unlocking the genetic enigma of millets.
Burden tolerance: Developing a validated measurement instrument across seven countries
Authors: Baekgaard Martin , Halling Aske , Moynihan Donald
Published: May 2024

The emergence of the administrative burden literature has generated new theoretical, conceptual, and empirical knowledge. However, the accumulation of comparable knowledge is limited by the lack of validated measurement of core concepts. This article validates a four‐item scale of burden tolerance, that is, people's acceptance of state actions that impose administrative burdens on citizens and residents interacting with government, using data from seven countries and 12 surveys. We illustrate the usefulness of the scale by examining its correlates. Burden tolerance varies substantially across the countries examined, but is generally higher for males, young adults, less well educated, those with good health, those who trust state actors more, and ideological conservatives. We demonstrate how the scale can be adapted to specific policy areas and that our generic scale correlates highly with the tolerance for burdens in such diverse domains as income supports, health insurance, passport renewals, and small business licensing.
Molecular mechanisms of sex determination and differentiation in decapod crustaceans for potential aquaculture applications: An overview
Authors: Wang Tao , Yu Yang , Li Shihao , Li Fuhua
Published: May 2024

Crustacean aquaculture, especially monosex culture, requires a comprehensive knowledge of the mechanisms regulating sex determination and differentiation. Decapod crustaceans display either female heterogamety (ZW/ZZ) or male heterogamety (XY/XX) as their mode of genotypic sex determination. However, some decapod species exhibit sexual plasticity via removing the androgenic gland, knockdown insulin receptor transcripts, administrating exogenous sex steroids, and altering environmental factors. Although the master sex‐determining gene in decapods remains elusive, various sexual genes, hormones, and neurotransmitter are emerging as important factors in sex differentiation. This review looks into recent advancements in studies related to the genetic sex determination system and factors that trigger sex reversal. Moreover, the elucidation of the role of genetic factors in sex differentiation in both females and males, as well as their underlying interrelated regulatory mechanisms, provides justification for three levels of application: the induction of monosex populations, detection of precocious sex and genotype, and prevention of uncontrolled reproduction. Finally, we proposed future directions of bioinformatics analysis and genome editing coupled with sex control to increase the yield for economic decapods. In conclusion, this review provides a foundation for future research on the reproductive biology and sexual regulation of decapods, with the aim of aiding practitioners in advancing the crustacean aquaculture industry.
The construct validity of attitudes toward sex offenders (ATS) scale: ATS is more strongly linked to the acceptance of sex offenders than other offenders or non‐offenders
Authors: Rawson Laura , Hermens Frouke , Onwuegbusi Tochukwu , Hogue Todd E.
Published: May 2024

Negative attitudes toward offenders may hinder the rehabilitation process. The present study examines the relationship between attitudes toward sex offenders and stated acceptance of offenders and non‐offenders into various aspects of daily life. Sixty female members of the public (18–50 years old, UK residents, recruited by word of mouth and via social media) completed an attitudes towards sex offenders (ATS) scale and indicated for each of eight vignettes describing ex‐offenders and non‐offenders whether they would accept them in various situations (housing, employment, day‐to‐day activities). Results indicate that in this group of female participants, harsher attitudes toward sex offenders are associated with lower acceptance of sex offenders (around 50% less acceptance) and other offenders (around 25% less acceptance), but not non‐offenders, suggesting a tight coupling between attitudes and acceptance. The observed coupling between attitudes toward sex offenders and acceptance of offenders suggests that it will be difficult to change one without changing the other.
Comparisons between Caucasian‐validated photo‐numeric scales and Korean‐validated photo‐numeric scales for photo‐ageing. Insights from the Singapore/Malaysia cross‐sectional genetics epidemiology study (SMCGES) cohort
Authors: Ng Jun Yan , Zhou Hongyu , Li Tianqi , Chew Fook Tim
Published: May 2024

Background

Photo‐ageing is a form of skin ageing which affects the entire face. A photo‐aged skin has a diverse variety of wrinkles and dyspigmentation all over the face. Here, we discuss photo‐ageing on the Chinese skin evaluated using a photo‐numeric scale developed and validated on Caucasian skin (i.e., Caucasian scale) and evaluated using a photo‐numeric scale developed and validated on Korean skin (i.e., Korean scale). The Korean scale can be subdivided into two scales that separately address the wrinkling and dyspigmentation constituents of photo‐ageing.

Aim

As there are currently no photo‐ageing scales for Chinese skin, the main objective of this study is to adapt existing photo‐ageing photo‐numeric scales for use on ethnic Chinese skin.

Method

Three trained assessors studied facial photo‐ageing on 1,081 ethnic Chinese young adults from the Singapore/Malaysia Cross‐sectional Genetics Epidemiology Study (SMCGES) cohort.

Results

All assessors are highly internally consistent (Weighted Kappa (κw) values≥0.952). We found that the Caucasian scale and Korean scale give nearly synonymous results for the wrinkling constituent of photo‐ageing (R2 = 0.9386). The two scales are strongly concordant (Spearman's Rank Correlation (ρ) value: 0.62 ± 0.06, p = 1.31×10−84). A weak‐to‐moderate inter‐scalar level of agreement (Cohen's Kappa (κ) values: 0.38 ± 0.05, p = 8.87×10−53) persists and is statistically significant after accounting for agreements due to chance. When tested on ethnic Chinese skin, both scales detect photo‐ageing consistently (Area under curve [AUC] values: 0.76‐0.84). Additionally, the Korean scale for the dyspigmentation constituent of photo‐ageing is concordant with both the Caucasian scale (R2 = 0.7888) and the Korean scale for the wrinkling constituent of photo‐ageing (R2 = 0.7734).

Conclusion

Our results show that the Caucasian scale is suitable for capturing photo‐ageing on Chinese skin, especially wrinkle variations. The Korean dyspigmentation scale supplements the Caucasian scale to capture dyspigmentation patterns on Chinese skin that may be absent on Caucasian skin. Currently, photo‐ageing scales for Chinese skin are absent. When developed, these photo‐ageing scales must be properly validated for their ability to capture photo‐ageing of the entire face.
Evaluation of coagulation and platelet activation state and function in heartworm‐infected dogs
Authors: Fraser Carisa , Wallace Mandy L. , Moorhead Andrew , Tarigo Jaime , Brainard Benjamin M.
Published: May 2024

Background

Enhanced platelet responses have been demonstrated in heartworm‐infected (HWI) dogs; however, the cause and clinical implications of altered platelet function have not been fully elucidated.

Objective

This study evaluated platelet function in HWI dogs.

Methods

Anticoagulated whole blood collected from eight HWI and eight uninfected dogs was evaluated using turbidometric platelet aggregometry, a platelet function analyzer (PFA‐100), a total thrombus analysis system (T‐TAS), tissue factor‐activated and tissue plasminogen activator modified thromboelastography (TF‐ and tPA‐TEG), CBC, von Willebrand Factor activity, and fibrinogen concentrations. Platelet activation state and the presence of reticulated platelets were assessed via flow cytometric expression of P‐selection (CD‐62P) and thiazole orange staining.

Results

Platelet aggregation responses to adenosine diphosphate (ADP, 10 μM) or collagen (20 μg/mL), PFA‐100 closure times, and T‐TAS occlusion times did not differ between groups. TEG values TF‐R, tPA‐R, TF‐K, and TF‐LY60 were decreased (P = .025, P = .047, P  = .038, P  = .025) and TF‐MA, tPA‐MA, TF‐G, tPA‐G and TF‐alpha angle were increased (P  < .04) in HWI dogs. HWI dogs had higher fibrinogen concentrations (465.6 ± 161 mg/dL vs 284.5 ± 38 mg/dL, P  = .008) and eosinophil counts (0.686 ± 0.27 × 103/μL vs 0.267 ± 0.20 × 103/μL, P  = .003). There was no difference in hematocrit, activation state, or percent of reticulated platelets. Non‐activated reticulated platelets exhibited higher CD62P expression compared with mature platelets.

Conclusions

Chronic canine heartworm disease was accompanied by hypercoagulability, hyperfibrinogenemia, and decreased fibrinolysis. Enhanced platelet activation was not identified in this group of HWI dogs.
A novel haemodilution chip mounted on the total thrombus‐formation analysis system, a flow chamber system, enables stable analysis of platelet products under low platelet concentration/high shear conditions
Authors: Fuchizaki Akihiro , Yasui Kazuta , Hayashi Tomoya , Tanaka Mitsunobu , Oyamada Chiaki , Ohnishi‐Wada Tomoko , Hosokawa Kazuya , Fujimura Yoshihiro , Shimogaki Kazushige , Hirayama Fumiya , Kimura Takafumi , Takihara Yoshihiro
Published: May 2024

Background and Objectives

The total thrombus‐formation analysis system (T‐TAS) can quantitatively analyse the contribution of platelets to haemostasis using reconstituted blood samples. However, it is unsuitable in cases with low platelet counts. We introduced a haemodilution (HD) chip with a shallow chamber depth, adapted to low platelet counts and high shear conditions (1500 s−1).

Materials and Methods

Blood samples were prepared by mixing red blood cell products, standard human plasma and platelet products; the final platelet count was 50 × 103/μL. Aggregation tests were performed by using the aggregation inducers collagen, adenosine diphosphate (ADP) and ristocetin. Samples with 2‐, 4‐ and 9‐day‐old platelet products (N = 10) were evaluated.

Results

The HD chip enabled the stable analysis of the haemostatic function of all samples at a platelet count of 50 × 103/μL. Haemostatic function was correlated with ADP aggregation (time to 10 kPa [T10]: r = −0.53; area under the curve for 30 min: r = 0.40) and storage period (T10: r = 0.44).

Conclusion

The HD chip‐mounted T‐TAS can stably analyse haemostatic function under low platelet counts and high shear conditions; this approach is expected to serve as a bridge to in vivo haemostatic tests with experimental animals.
La universidad en la encrucijada: un panorama histórico y prospectivo
Authors: Remolina Vargas, S. J. Gerardo
Published: May 2024

En la sociedad contemporánea, las universidades son espacios vitales en los que se cultiva la innovación, se alberga el saber y se preparan a generaciones enteras de profesionales, de ciudadanos y de investigadores que aportan de manera indispensable al progreso de la humanidad. Por este motivo, estudiar la historia rica y compleja de esta institución permite comprender los modos en los que las sociedades se han transformado con el tiempo, así como las formas en las que los seres humanos se han adaptado y han afrontado el mundo que los rodea. Precisamente, en La universidad en la encrucijada, el padre Gerardo Remolina, S. J., presenta un panorama histórico y prospectivo de la universidad, en el que destaca sus momentos más determinantes y recopila diversos aspectos y eventos que marcaron los inicios, el desarrollo, las tendencias actuales y los horizontes de esta institución. Apoyándose en su amplia y rica experiencia personal y profesional, así como en una investigación exhaustiva, este autor ofrece una visión completa y detallada de los elementos más importantes de la tradición secular de la universidad. Esto le permite expandir una historia encarnada socialmente, en la que se acentúa la función de esta institución como una guardiana de la tradición, como una cuna del conocimiento y como un reservorio de nuevas ideas, requisito real del verdadero progreso.
Design of a Device to Ease and Improve the Diagnosis of Popliteal Artery Entrapment Syndrome
Authors: Rutherford Emma , Xu Wenhao , Vu Kiet , Lozano Claudia , Lee Alexandra , Dzenutis Paige , Dowlatshahi Arriyan S. , Pennes Anthony , Connor Jay , Slocum Alexander
Published: May 2024

Popliteal artery entrapment syndrome (PAES) is a condition affecting blood flow in the back of the leg, which can have a significant impact on the patient's life. It is often misdiagnosed due to a lack of standardized procedures and quantifiable diagnostic criteria. To facilitate easier and more accurate diagnosis of this syndrome, we have designed and built an initial prototype of a device that provides adjustable resistance during plantar-flexion of the patient's ankle while quantifying force generated and ankle range of motion. The device will be used while the physician observes blood flow through the popliteal artery in the back of the knee using an ultrasound. The device provides a convenient and ergonomic solution for patients and physicians, which helps improve the accuracy of PAES diagnosis and allows physicians to further study this condition.
Biomechanical Analysis of Orthodontic Miniscrew-Assisted Rapid Palatal Expansion on Dental and Bone Tissues: A Finite-Element Study
Authors: Mamboleo Egon , Ouldyerou Abdelhak , Alsharif Khaled , Ngan Peter , Merdji Ali , Roy Sandipan , Mukdadi Osama M.
Published: May 2024

This study aims to delineate the biomechanical responses in both soft and hard tissues, alongside the interactions within the surrounding bone of a human skull subjected to clinical loadings generated by a miniscrew-assisted rapid palatal expansion (MARPE) device. Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans of a 20-year-old female skull were segmented. The skull bones were meticulously modeled to reconstruct a comprehensive three-dimensional (3D) model for finite-element analysis (FEA). A displacement of 0.125 mm was applied on each side (0.25 mm total) of the MARPE device to simulate one complete turn of the jackscrew. The outcomes revealed that the miniscrews experienced a maximum equivalent von Mises stress of 264.91 MPa. Notably, the separation of the midpalatal suture exhibited a quasi-parallel deformation with an average displacement of 0.247 mm and a standard deviation of 0.006,67 mm. The ratio of the rotational angle to the lateral displacement of the zygomaticomaxillary complex was 0.6436 degree/mm. No fracture of miniscrews was observed during the activation of one turn per day.
A new genus and two new species of eriophyid mites from medicinal plants in Thailand

Authors: Konvipasruang Ploychompoo , Buttachon Suradet
Published: May 2024

A new genus and two new species of the family Eriophyidae (Acari: Eriophyoidea) from medicinal plants, Thailand are described and illustrated. There are Asetapatella ipomoneae gen. nov., sp. nov. on Ipomoea carnea subsp. fistulosa (Mart. ex Choisy) D.F. Austin (Convolvulaceae) and Aceria rotundifolii n. sp., on Mitragyna rotundifolia (Roxb.) Kuntze (Rubiaceae). Asetapatella ipomoneae gen. nov., sp. nov. is vagrant on the lower leaf surface, causing no apparent symptoms to the host plant. Aceria rotundifolii n. sp. caused erineum on both sides of the host’s leaves.
First record of the genus Pseudoscirus (Acariformes: Cunaxidae) from China with description of a new species

Authors: Chen Jian-xin , Yao Mao-yuan , Wu You-fang , Yi Tian-ci , Guo Jian-jun , Jin Dao-chao
Published: May 2024

A new species of genus Pseudoscirus Wurlitzer & Rocha, 2021, P. menglaensis Chen & Jin sp. nov. is described, which represents a newly recorded genus Pseudoscirus to China. And a key to species (adult females) of Pseudoscirus is given in the world.
A brain-enriched circular RNA controls excitatory neurotransmission and restricts sensitivity to aversive stimuli
Authors: Giusti Sebastian A. , Pino Natalia S. , Pannunzio Camila , Ogando Mora B. , Armando Natalia G. , Garrett Lillian , Zimprich Annemarie , Becker Lore , Gimeno Maria L. , Lukin Jeronimo , Merino Florencia L. , Pardi M. Belen , Pedroncini Olivia , Di Mauro Giuliana C. , Durner Valerie Gailus , Fuchs Helmut , de Angelis Martin Hrabe , Patop Ines L. , Turck Christoph W. , Deussing Jan M. , Vogt Weisenhorn Daniela M. , Jahn Olaf , Kadener Sebastian , Hölter Sabine M. , Brose Nils , Giesert Florian , Wurst Wolfgang , Marin-Burgin Antonia , Refojo Damian
Published: May 2024

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are a large class of noncoding RNAs. Despite the identification of thousands of circular transcripts, the biological significance of most of them remains unexplored, partly because of the lack of effective methods for generating loss-of-function animal models. In this study, we focused on circTulp4, an abundant circRNA derived from the
Tulp4
gene that is enriched in the brain and synaptic compartments. By creating a circTulp4-deficient mouse model, in which we mutated the splice acceptor site responsible for generating circTulp4 without affecting the linear mRNA or protein levels, we were able to conduct a comprehensive phenotypic analysis. Our results demonstrate that circTulp4 is critical in regulating neuronal and brain physiology, modulating the strength of excitatory neurotransmission and sensitivity to aversive stimuli. This study provides evidence that circRNAs can regulate biologically relevant functions in neurons, with modulatory effects at multiple levels of the phenotype, establishing a proof of principle for the regulatory role of circRNAs in neural processes.
Human DNA topoisomerase I poisoning causes R loop–mediated genome instability attenuated by transcription factor IIS
Authors: Duardo Renée C. , Marinello Jessica , Russo Marco , Morelli Sara , Pepe Simona , Guerra Federico , Gómez-González Belén , Aguilera Andrés , Capranico Giovanni
Published: May 2024

DNA topoisomerase I can contribute to cancer genome instability. During catalytic activity, topoisomerase I forms a transient intermediate, topoisomerase I–DNA cleavage complex (Top1cc) to allow strand rotation and duplex relaxation, which can lead to elevated levels of DNA-RNA hybrids and micronuclei. To comprehend the underlying mechanisms, we have integrated genomic data of Top1cc-triggered hybrids and DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) shortly after Top1cc induction, revealing that Top1ccs increase hybrid levels with different mechanisms. DSBs are at highly transcribed genes in early replicating initiation zones and overlap with hybrids downstream of accumulated RNA polymerase II (RNAPII) at gene 5′-ends. A transcription factor IIS mutant impairing transcription elongation further increased RNAPII accumulation likely due to backtracking. Moreover, Top1ccs can trigger micronuclei when occurring during late G
1
or early/mid S, but not during late S. As micronuclei and transcription-replication conflicts are attenuated by transcription factor IIS, our results support a role of RNAPII arrest in Top1cc-induced transcription-replication conflicts leading to DSBs and micronuclei.
A Janus membrane with electro-induced multi-affinity interfaces for high-efficiency water purification
Authors: Liu Lie , Lan Huachun , Cui Yuqi , Tang Qingwen , Bai Jiaqi , An Xiaoqiang , Sun Meng , Liu Huijuan , Qu Jiuhui
Published: May 2024

Drinking water with micropollutants is a notable environmental concern worldwide. Membrane separation is one of the few methods capable of removing micropollutants from water. However, existing membranes face challenges in the simultaneous and efficient treatment of small-molecular and ionic contaminants because of their limited permselectivity. Here, we propose a high-efficiency water purification method using a low-pressure Janus membrane with electro-induced multi-affinity. By virtue of hydrophobic and electrostatic interactions between the functional interfaces and contaminants, the Janus membrane achieves simultaneous separation of diverse types of organics and heavy metals from water via single-pass filtration, with an approximately 100% removal efficiency, high water flux (>680 liters m
−2
hour
−1
), and 98% lower energy consumption compared with commercial nanofiltration membranes. The electro-induced switching of interfacial affinity enables 100% regeneration of membrane performance; thus, our work paves a sustainable avenue for drinking water purification by regulating the interfacial affinity of membranes.
Multi-stimulus perception and visualization by an intelligent liquid metal-elastomer architecture
Authors: Wang Hongzhang , Yuan Bo , Zhu Xiyu , Shan Xiaohui , Chen Sen , Ding Wenbo , Cao Yingjie , Dong Kaichen , Zhang Xudong , Guo Rui , Yao Yuchen , Wang Bo , Tang Jianbo , Liu Jing
Published: May 2024

Multi-stimulus responsive soft materials with integrated functionalities are elementary blocks for building soft intelligent systems, but their rational design remains challenging. Here, we demonstrate an intelligent soft architecture sensitized by magnetized liquid metal droplets that are dispersed in a highly stretchable elastomer network. The supercooled liquid metal droplets serve as microscopic latent heat reservoirs, and their controllable solidification releases localized thermal energy/information flows for enabling programmable visualization and display. This allows the perception of a variety of information-encoded contact (mechanical pressing, stretching, and torsion) and noncontact (magnetic field) stimuli as well as the visualization of dynamic phase transition and stress evolution processes, via thermal and/or thermochromic imaging. The liquid metal-elastomer architecture offers a generic platform for designing soft intelligent sensing, display, and information encryption systems.
Pathogen-microbiome interactions and the virulence of an entomopathogenic fungus
Authors: Kolp Matthew R. , de Anda Acosta Yazmin , Brewer William , Nichols Holly L. , Goldstein Elliott B. , Tallapragada Keertana , Parker Benjamin J.
Published: May 2024

Bacteria shape interactions between hosts and fungal pathogens. In some cases, bacteria associated with fungi are essential for pathogen virulence. In other systems, host-associated microbiomes confer resistance against fungal pathogens. We studied an aphid-specific entomopathogenic fungus called
Pandora neoaphidis
in the context of both host and pathogen microbiomes. Aphids host several species of heritable bacteria, some of which confer resistance against
Pandora
. We first found that spores that emerged from aphids that harbored protective bacteria were less virulent against subsequent hosts and did not grow on plate media. We then used 16S amplicon sequencing to study the bacterial microbiome of fungal mycelia and spores during plate culturing and host infection. We found that the bacterial community is remarkably stable in culture despite dramatic changes in pathogen virulence. Last, we used an experimentally transformed symbiont of aphids to show that
Pandora
can acquire host-associated bacteria during infection. Our results uncover new roles for bacteria in the dynamics of aphid-pathogen interactions and illustrate the importance of the broader microbiological context in studies of fungal pathogenesis.

IMPORTANCE

Entomopathogenic fungi play important roles in the population dynamics of many insect species. Understanding the factors shaping entomopathogen virulence is critical for agricultural management and for the use of fungi in pest biocontrol. We show that heritable bacteria in aphids, which confer protection to their hosts against fungal entomopathogens, influence virulence against subsequent hosts. Aphids reproduce asexually and are typically surrounded by genetically identical offspring, and thus these effects likely shape the dynamics of fungal disease in aphid populations. Furthermore, fungal entomopathogens are known to rapidly lose virulence in lab culture, complicating their laboratory use. We show that this phenomenon is not driven by changes in the associated bacterial microbiome. These results contribute to our broader understanding of the aphid model system and shed light on the biology of the Entomophthorales—an important but understudied group of fungi.
A novel multiplex fluorescent-labeling method for the visualization of mixed-species biofilms
in vitro
Authors: Aherne Olivia , Mørch Martina , Ortiz Roberto , Shannon Oonagh , Davies Julia R.
Published: May 2024

In nature, bacteria usually exist as mixed-species biofilms, where they engage in a range of synergistic and antagonistic interactions that increase their resistance to environmental challenges. Biofilms are a major cause of persistent infections, and dispersal from initial foci can cause new infections at distal sites thus warranting further investigation. Studies of development and spatial interactions in mixed-species biofilms can be challenging due to difficulties in identifying the different bacterial species
in situ
. Here, we apply CellTrace dyes to studies of biofilm bacteria and present a novel application for multiplex labeling, allowing identification of different bacteria in mixed-species,
in vitro
biofilm models. Oral bacteria labeled with CellTrace dyes (far red, yellow, violet, and CFSE [green]) were used to create single- and mixed-species biofilms, which were analyzed with confocal spinning disk microscopy (CSDM). Biofilm supernatants were studied with flow cytometry (FC). Both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria were well labeled and CSDM revealed biofilms with clear morphology and stable staining for up to 4 days. Analysis of CellTrace labeled cells in supernatants using FC showed differences in the biofilm dispersal between bacterial species. Multiplexing with different colored dyes allowed visualization of spatial relationships between bacteria in mixed-species biofilms and relative coverage by the different species was revealed through segmentation of the CSDM images. This novel application, thus, offers a powerful tool for studying structure and composition of mixed-species biofilms
in vitro
.

IMPORTANCE

Although most chronic infections are caused by mixed-species biofilms, much of our knowledge still comes from planktonic cultures of single bacterial species. Studies of formation and development of mixed-species biofilms are, therefore, required. This work describes a method applicable to labeling of bacteria for
in vitro
studies of biofilm structure and dispersal. Critically, labeled bacteria can be multiplexed for identification of different species in mixed-species biofilms using confocal spinning disk microscopy, facilitating investigation of biofilm development and spatial interactions under different environmental conditions. The study is an important step in increasing the tools available for such complex and challenging studies.