bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Microhabitat selection of meadow and steppe vipers enlightened by digital photography and image processing to describe grassland vegetation structure
Authors: Mizsei E. , Budai M. , Rák G. , Bancsik B. , Radovics D. , Szabolcs M. , Móré A. , Vadász C. , Dudás G. , Lengyel S.
Published: December 2023

Understanding animals' selection of microhabitats is important in both ecology and biodiversity conservation. However, there is no generally accepted methodology for the characterization of microhabitats, especially for vegetation structure. We studied microhabitat selection of three Vipera snakes by comparing grassland vegetation structure between viper occurrence points and random points in three grassland ecosystems: V. graeca in mountain meadows of Albania, V. renardi in loess steppes of Ukraine and V. ursinii in sand grasslands in Hungary. We quantified vegetation structure in an objective manner by automated processing of images taken of the vegetation against a vegetation profile board under standardized conditions. We developed an R script for automatic calculation of four vegetation structure variables derived from raster data obtained in the images: leaf area (LA), height of closed vegetation (HCV), maximum height of vegetation (MHV) and foliage height diversity (FHD). Generalized linear mixed models revealed that snake occurrence was positively related to HCV in V. graeca, to LA in V. renardi and to LA and MHV in V. ursinii, and negatively to HCV in V. ursinii. Our results demonstrate that vegetation structure variables derived from automated image processing significantly relate to viper microhabitat selection. Our method minimizes the risk of subjectivity in measuring vegetation structure, enables the aggregation of adjacent pixel data and is suitable for comparison of or extrapolation across different vegetation types or ecosystems.
Synchrotron x‐ray diffraction for sealed Mars Sample Return sample tubes
Authors: Adam L. F. , Bridges J. C. , Bedford C. C. , Holt J. M. C. , Rampe E. , Thorpe M. , Mason K. , Ewing R. C.
Published: December 2023

The joint NASA‐ESA Mars sample return campaign aims to return up to 31 sample tubes containing drilled sedimentary and igneous cores and regolith. The titanium alloy tubes will initially still be sealed when they are retrieved. Several types of measurement will be carried out on sealed samples in the pre‐basic characterization phase of scientific investigation. We show that powder x‐ray diffraction (XRD) analysis can be successfully carried out on sealed samples using an x‐ray source at the I12 beamline of Diamond Light Source synchrotron. Our experiment used an analog sample tube and a Martian regolith analog (Icelandic basaltic sand). The titanium walls of the tube analog give strong but few diffraction peaks, making identification of the major constituent mineral phases feasible. A more significant constraint on quantification of mineral phase abundances by this XRD technique is likely to be the grain size of the sample. This technique opens up the possibility of initial mineralogical analysis of samples returned from Jezero crater without opening the sample tubes and the potential changes to the sample that entails.
Exploring the Interplay of Age and Pedagogy in the Maturation of Error‐Monitoring
Authors: Denervaud Solange , Tovar David A. , Knebel Jean‐François , Mullier Emeline , Gómez Yasser Alemán‐ , Hagmann Patric , Murray Micah M.
Published: December 2023

Error‐monitoring is a crucial cognitive process that enables us to adapt to the constantly changing environment. The anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) plays a vital role in error‐monitoring, and its prolonged maturation suggests that it can be influenced by experience‐dependent plasticity. To explore this possibility, we collected morphometric magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) measures of the ACC and error‐related response‐locked event‐related potentials (ERPs) in 26 schoolchildren, aged 6–12 years, enrolled in either a Montessori or a traditional curriculum in Switzerland. We show that the caudal ACC undergoes significant morphometric changes during this developmental age range that seem related to error detection ERP activity. Furthermore, we observed differences in source localization activity related to error detection within the caudal ACC between Montessori and traditionally‐schooled children, indicating a potential difference in the development of error‐monitoring in these groups. Our study provides preliminary evidence for a potential window of opportunity to influence error‐monitoring during development and calls for more work in that direction.
Heterologous expression of influenza haemagglutinin leads to early and transient activation of the unfolded protein response in Nicotiana benthamiana
Authors: Hamel Louis‐Philippe , Comeau Marc‐André , Tardif Rachel , Poirier‐Gravel Francis , Paré Marie‐Ève , Lavoie Pierre‐Olivier , Goulet Marie‐Claire , Michaud Dominique , D'Aoust Marc‐André
Published: December 2023

The unfolded protein response (UPR) allows cells to cope with endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress induced by accumulation of misfolded proteins in the ER. Due to its sensitivity to Agrobacterium tumefaciens, the model plant Nicotiana benthamiana is widely employed for transient expression of recombinant proteins of biopharmaceutical interest, including antibodies and virus surface proteins used for vaccine production. As such, study of the plant UPR is of practical significance, since enforced expression of complex secreted proteins often results in ER stress. After 6 days of expression, we recently reported that influenza haemagglutinin H5 induces accumulation of UPR proteins. Since up‐regulation of corresponding UPR genes was not detected at this time, accumulation of UPR proteins was hypothesized to be independent of transcriptional induction, or associated with early but transient UPR gene up‐regulation. Using time course sampling, we here show that H5 expression does result in early and transient activation of the UPR, as inferred from unconventional splicing of NbbZIP60 transcripts and induction of UPR genes with varied functions. Transient nature of H5‐induced UPR suggests that this response was sufficient to cope with ER stress provoked by expression of the secreted protein, as opposed to an antibody that triggered stronger and more sustained UPR activation. As up‐regulation of defence genes responding to H5 expression was detected after the peak of UPR activation and correlated with high increase in H5 protein accumulation, we hypothesize that these immune responses, rather than the UPR, were responsible for onset of the necrotic symptoms on H5‐expressing leaves.
Risk factors for social isolation in older adults: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Wang Suhang , Lin Ji , Kuang Li , Yang Xia , Yu Bingyang , Cui Ying
Published: December 2023

Objectives

To explore the risk factors of social isolation in older adults by meta‐analysis.

Methods

We examined articles that had been published on the China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Wanfang Data Knowledge Service platform, VIP Periodical Chinese Journal Service platform, Medical Literature database, PubMed, Embase database, Chinese BioMedical Literature database (CBM), and the Cochrane Library. RevMan 5.3 software was used for meta‐analysis.

Results

A total of 13 pieces of literature comprising 47,288 patients were included, including five in Chinese and eight in English. According to our review, the common risk factors reported were age, sex, education level, marital status, self‐rated health status, depression, social support, cognitive function, and basic diseases. Gender (female), education level (lower education level), marital status (divorced), self‐rated health status (poor), depression, lack of social support, inadequate cognitive function, and underlying disorders were the key risk factors for social isolation in older adults.

Conclusions

To reduce social isolation in older adults, paying more attention to the aging population with poor marital statuses, low education levels, poor health statuses, depression, poor cognitive function, and other underlying diseases is necessary. It is essential to encourage patients and their family members to participate in social activities and build a multi‐social support system to reduce social isolation in older adults.
Broadcast health: Leveraging YouTube for community health education
Authors: Neely Sara Bynon , Long Samantha , Cygan Heide , Kalensky Melissa
Published: December 2023

Objective

In community health, there is great demand but limited time for the delivery of staff and patient education. During the COVID‐19 pandemic, evolving needs necessitated that health education be provided in an accurate and timely manner. This paper describes the development, implementation, and evaluation of a YouTube channel designed to disseminate health education to a wide audience of public health workers and patient populations.

Methods

This project, divided into three phases, originated within shelter‐based care, providing education to shelter staff (Phase 1) and overtime has evolved to provide education within the Community Health Worker Hub at a major teaching hospital for community health workers (Phase 2) and the populations they serve (Phase 3). Further, during phase 3, the project developer used an artificial intelligence (AI) platform to increase the reach of the YouTube channel.

Results

Over a span of 21 months, 18 unique videos have garnered 489 views.

Conclusions

Clinicians and educators can leverage technology platforms for health education delivery, increasing the reach of their work while meeting the demands of the profession. While the quality of some information on YouTube may be poor, patients and students turn to this platform for health education. It is imperative that public health nurses embrace this medium, rather than push against it. By creating high‐quality content, educating students and patients about DISCERN and PEMAT tools, and guiding patients to credible sources, public health nurses may ameliorate the standards of health education on YouTube.
The public‐health significance of far‐UVC‐induced indoor ozone and its associated secondary chemistry
Authors: Brenner David J.
Published: December 2023

There has been much recent interest in whole‐room far‐UVC (wavelength around 222 nm) to markedly and safely reduce overall levels of airborne pathogens in occupied indoor locations. Far‐UVC light produces very low levels of ozone—in real‐world scenarios induced ozone levels of less than 10 ppb, and much less in moderately or well‐ventilated rooms compliant with US far‐UVC dose recommendations, and very much less in rooms compliant with international far‐UVC dose standards. At these very low ozone levels, there is no epidemiological evidence of increased health risks from any of the very large outdoor ozone studies, whether from ozone alone or from ozone plus associated pollutants. Indoors, at the low ozone concentrations of relevance here, ozone does not react rapidly enough with preexisting airborne volatile organic compounds to compete with even extremely low levels of room ventilation, so significant ozone‐induced ultrafine particle production is very unlikely. Direct measurements in real‐life room scenarios are consistent with these conclusions. A potential exception is the cleaning material limonene, which has an unusually high ozone interaction cross‐section; in the far‐UVC context, turning off far‐UVC lights during cleaning with limonene products would be reasonable.
The CAP: Your resource for artificial intelligence information
Authors: Volk Emily E.
Published: December 2023

Artificial intelligence (AI) has become increasingly studied and implemented in some pathology departments; but how might AI models help change medicine? While technology leaders are calling for a pause on developing AI systems until there is greater confidence “that their effects will be positive and their risks will be manageable,” (Pause Giant AI Experiments: An Open Letter. March 22, 2023. https://futureoflife.org/open-letter/pause-giant-ai-experiments/) could breakthrough innovations in AI make medicine and physicians better? (There's One Hard Question My Fellow Doctors and I Will Need to Answer Soon. July 6, 2023. https://www.nytimes.com/2023/07/06/opinion/artificial-intelligence-medicine-healthcare.html) This discussion will provide an overview of AI, its current role in pathology practice, what pathologists need to know, and what the College of American Pathologists is doing for pathologists in this area.
Characterization and pathogenicity of Pratylenchus vandenbergae stat. nov. (Tylenchina: Pratylenchidae), a highly pathogenic root‐lesion nematode parasitizing crops in Kenya and South Africa
Authors: Wanjau Cecilia , Knoetze Rinus , Girgan Chantelle , Pili Njira Njira , Engelbrecht Gerhard , Couvreur Marjolein , Bert Wim
Published: December 2023

A highly fecund root‐lesion nematode parasitizing a variety of crops was discovered and found to be widespread in Kenya and South Africa. These populations were molecularly identical to Pratylenchus teres teres and P. teres vandenbergae based on D2‐D3 of 28S rDNA and Hsp90 sequences. However, based on morphological differences with the original description of P. teres and its different geographical distribution, Pratylenchus vandenbergae stat. nov., previously known as subspecies P. teres vandenbergae, is recognized as a separate species. This species is characterized by a slightly offset labial region with three annuli, en face morphology belonging to Group II, lateral field with four incisures with two outer bands areolated as observed under a light microscope and the inner band also partially areolated at the vulva region as observed in scanning electron microscopy view, a robust stylet (14–17 μm) with rounded knobs and subcylindrical tail with annulated tail tip. This important and common species remained largely under the radar, probably due to identifications based only on sequence similarity, including mislabelled Pratylenchus bolivianus sequences in GenBank. Pathogenicity of P. vandenbergae stat. nov. in finger millet roots was confirmed through acid fuchsin staining, and reproduction and pathogenicity tests in maize, soybean, sunflower and tomato plants demonstrated its capacity to affect crop growth. Life cycle comparison with P. penetrans in vitro showed a similar life cycle length but significantly higher fecundity. Finally, significant differences in pathogenicity and reproduction of P. vandenbergae stat. nov. were found both at genotype level (finger millet genotypes OKHALE‐1 & KNE1034) and crop level (maize, soybean, sunflower and tomato plants).
An Approach to the Lexical Ambiguity Caused by False Cognates in Spanish L2. a Corpus‐Based Exploratory Study
Authors: Sampedro Mella María
Published: December 2023

This exploratory study aims to offer new insights into the lexical ambiguity in the interlanguage arising from the use of false cognates. The study is based on written texts from two learners' corpora. Utterances including false cognates were retrieved from both corpora and presented to two groups of native speakers who assessed their correctness and stated whether or not they were ambiguous. While the first group was informed beforehand that the sentences had been produced by non‐native speakers (as well as the meaning of the false cognates in their L1), the second group had no information regarding the speakers who wrote them. The goal of this analysis is to shed light on the different perceptions that can arise from native vs. non‐native speakers' productions, focusing on lexical ambiguity.
Residency spiral concussion curriculum design
Authors: Kam Alice Sau Han , Zhao George , Huang Ching‐Lung , Husain Aisha , Nyhof‐Young Joyce , Summers Alyson , Fernandez Nicolas , Richardson Denyse
Published: December 2023

Background

Resident‐focused concussion curricula that measure learner behaviours are currently unavailable. We sought to fill this gap by developing and iteratively implementing a Spiral Integrated Concussion Curriculum (SICC).

Approach

Programme elements of the concussion curriculum include academic half‐days (AHDs) and three half‐day clinics for first‐ and second‐year family medicine residents. Our SICC utilises social cognitive learning principles, the constructivism paradigm and utilisation‐focused evaluation.

Evaluation

A mixed‐method evaluation with a pre‐/post‐test design and interviews was utilised. Surveys and knowledge tests were used to measure knowledge and confidence pre‐AHD and 6 months post‐AHD. Interviews at 6 months explored programme perception and behaviour change. Of the 141 programme attendees, 114 (80%) participated in the pre‐intervention knowledge test and 33 completed the pre‐ and post‐AHD test. Immediate pre‐/post‐testing demonstrated statistically significant improvement in knowledge (p = 0.042). At 6 months post‐AHD, residents in Cycle 1 (n = 5) had a knowledge decrease of 3.33% (p > 0.05). Residents in Cycle 2 (n = 7) had a knowledge increase of 11.6% (p > 0.05). Both cycles of residents had an increase in confidence (Cycle 1: 65.0% [p = 0.025]; Cycle 2: 62.8% [p = 0.0014]). Residents (5 out of 6) reported positive behavioural changes at 6 months. Valued programme elements included concussion diagnosis and management, the self‐study guide resource and the organised structure.

Implications

The SICC enriched these residents' learning and fostered sustained knowledge improvement and behavioural change at 6 months post‐intervention. This approach may provide a workable design for future competency‐based curriculum development.
Complications and influence of cutaneous closure technique on subdermal plexus flaps in 97 dogs (2006–2022)
Authors: Logothetou Vasileia , L'Eplattenier Henry , Shimizu Naomi
Published: December 2023

Objective

To determine the incidence and severity of complications for subdermal plexus flaps in dogs and compare the complications when using sutures or staples for cutaneous closure of subdermal plexus flaps.

Study design

Retrospective monocentric study.

Sample population

Ninety‐seven client‐owned dogs.

Methods

Dogs that underwent wound reconstruction using subdermal plexus flaps were retrospectively identified. Type of flap, cutaneous closure technique, complications and level of complication associated with their use were recorded. Follow‐up was considered adequate if it was more than 10 days postoperatively or until a complication occurred.

Results

Complications were seen in 52 dogs (53.6%), of which 13/18 (72.2%) of dogs had cutaneous closure with skin staples versus 39/79 (49.3%) with skin sutures. The location of the mass/wound on the head and use of an advancement flap was associated with lower incidence of complications (p < .001; p = .018 respectively). Location of the mass/wound on the proximal pelvic limb was associated with a low level of complications (p = .01) on univariable analysis only. On multivariable analysis, only an increased bodyweight was associated with an increased incidence of complications (p = .029).

Conclusions

Increased weight may be associated with an increased risk of complications with subdermal plexus flaps. No risk factor was found to be associated with the severity of complications.

Clinical significance

Overall incidence of complications for subdermal plexus flaps in dogs in this study was 53.6%. The number of dogs included in the study was not sufficient to assess if the skin closure technique affects the incidence of complications.
Secretome of stem cells from human exfoliated deciduous teeth (SHED) and its extracellular vesicles improves keratinocytes migration, viability, and attenuation of H2O2‐induced cytotoxicity
Authors: Bastidas Juliana Girón , Maurmann Natasha , Scholl Juliete Nathali , Weber Augusto Ferreira , Silveira Raíssa Padilha , Figueiró Fabricio , Stimamiglio Marco Augusto , Marcon Bruna , Correa Alejandro , Pranke Patricia
Published: December 2023

Therapies for wound healing using the secretome and extracellular vesicles (EVs) of mesenchymal stem/stromal cells have been shown to be successful in preclinical studies. This study aimed to characterise the protein content of the secretome from stem cells from human exfoliated deciduous teeth (SHED) and analyse the in vitro effects of SHED‐conditioned medium (SHED‐CM) and SHED extracellular vesicles (SHED‐EVs) on keratinocytes. EVs were isolated and characterised. The keratinocyte viability and migration of cells treated with SHED‐EVs and conditioned medium (CM) were evaluated. An HaCaT apoptosis model induced by H2O2 in vitro was performed with H2O2 followed by 3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) and live/dead assays. Finally, the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in keratinocytes treated with secretome and EVs was evaluated by immunofluorescence staining and confirmed with RT‐qPCR. SHED‐EVs revealed a cup‐shaped morphology with expression of the classical markers for exosomes CD9 and CD63, and a diameter of 181 ± 87 nm. The internalisation of EVs by HaCaT cells was confirmed by fluorescence microscopy. Proteomic analysis identified that SHED‐CM is enriched with proteins related to stress response and development, including cytokines (CXCL8, IL‐6, CSF1, CCL2) and growth factors (IGF2, MYDGF, PDGF). The results also indicated that 50% CM and 0.4–0.6 μg/mL EVs were similarly efficient for improving keratinocyte viability, migration, and attenuation of H2O2‐induced cytotoxicity. Additionally, expression of VEGF on keratinocytes increased when treated with SHED secretome and EVs. Furthermore, VEGF gene expression in keratinocytes increased significantly when treated with SHED secretome and EVs. Both SHED‐CM and SHED‐EVs may therefore be promising therapeutic tools for accelerating re‐epithelialization in wound healing.
Reviewer Acknowledgements for Applied Economics and Finance, Vol. 10, No. 4
Authors: Gibbs Nikki
Published: December 2023

Applied Economics and Finance (AEF) would like to acknowledge the following reviewers for their assistance with peer review of manuscripts for this issue. Many authors, regardless of whether AEF publishes their work, appreciate the helpful feedback provided by the reviewers. Their comments and suggestions were of great help to the authors in improving the quality of their papers. Each of the reviewers listed below returned at least one review for this issue.Reviewers for Volume 10, Number 4 Ali Darub Al-Hiyali, University of Anbar, IraqFahri ÖZSUNGUR, Adana Science and Technology University, TurkeyMarco Muscettola, Independent Researcher-Credit Risk Manager, ItalyOmer Allagabo Omer Mustafa, Sudan Academy for Banking and Financial Sciences., SudanRajeev Rana, APB Govt. P.G. College, IndiaRomeo Victor Ionescu, Dunarea de Jos University, RomaniaShaoshu LI, Cornell University, USAZuzana Janko, San Francisco State University, USA     Nikki GibbsEditorial AssistantOn behalf of,The Editorial Board of Applied Economics and FinanceRedfame Publishing9450 SW Gemini Dr. #99416Beaverton, OR 97008, USAURL: http://aef.redfame.com
Effect of RIBS/FINS and Aspect Ratio on Flow Boiling Characteristics in Conventional Channels
Authors: Madan K. , Sathyabhama A.
Published: December 2023

In this work, experiments are conducted with conventional rectangular channels of two different aspect ratios (AR = w/d) for the horizontal boiling flow conditions at atmospheric pressure. Distilled water was used as the working substance. The heat transfer coefficients (HTC) were measured for mass fluxes and heat fluxes ranging from 85.94 kg/m2-s to 343.77 kg/m2-s and 10 kW/m2 to 100 kW/m2, respectively, and at inlet subcooled temperatures of 303 K, 313 K, and 323 K. Visualization of the boiling phenomenon was done using a high-speed camera for the two channels under similar conditions. The results show that the AR has a dominant effect on the HTC. At low heat flux values, higher HTC was noticed for the channel of higher AR (AR = 1.25) whereas, at high heat flux conditions, the HTC is higher for the channel of lower AR (AR = 0.2). With an increase in inlet subcooled temperature, the HTC decreased for both channels due to increased thermal boundary layer thickness and reduced bubble formation. Further, the channel of AR = 1.25 with ribs/fins performed better than the smooth channel due to the high bubble nucleation rate.
Hierarchical Iterative Learning Control for a Class of Distributed Hierarchical Systems
Authors: Igram Spencer , Alleyne Andrew G.
Published: December 2023

This work examines a class of distributed linear systems that fit a tree type of hierarchical structure. Therefore, unidirectional information flow from a subsystem higher in the hierarchy impacts subsystems lower in the hierarchy. While prior efforts at control focused on feedback solutions to these systems, this effort introduces Iterative Learning Control as a feedforward controller. This is termed hierarchical iterative learning control (HILC). This HILC can be implemented in parallel with feedback algorithms or can be used in a series feedforward manner assuming stable, or stabilized, subsystems. An augmentation of the standard learning update operators provides stability and monotonic convergence for the proposed approach. A simulation case study highlights the performance of the proposed design approach.
A Study of Shock-Induced Transient Jets: The Impact of Exit Conditions on Mach Disk and Vortex Ring
Authors: V. Vinod , Rao Divya , Chandrala Lakshmana Dora
Published: December 2023

We investigate the effect of exit pressure history on the flow characteristics of underexpanded transient jets. Using both experiments and numerical simulations, we study the dynamics of shock-cell and vortex structures within these jets. A shock tube with an open-ended configuration allows us to generate transient jets by adjusting the diaphragm pressure ratio and the length of the driver section. Our results indicate that when the shock Mach number exceeds 1.6, a Mach disk forms, indicating a highly underexpanded transient jet at the exit of the shock tube. A distinguishing feature of this jet is the emergence of counter-rotating vortex rings (CRVRs) alongside the initial primary vortex ring. Our findings reveal a substantial influence of both the amplitude and duration of the peak exit pressure on the characteristics of the Mach disk and vortex ring. Notably, the characteristics of the primary vortex ring exhibit significant sensitivity to the formation and evolution of CRVRs. In cases of continuously decreasing exit pressure, the Mach disk follows a consistent self-similar decay pattern, regardless of the peak exit pressure magnitude. Finally, we present an empirical relationship between exit pressure and the characteristics of the Mach disk. In summary, this research provides insight into the complex interaction between the exit pressure history and the flow characteristics in underexpanded transient jets.
Improving Three-Dimensional Synthetic Jet Modeling in a Crossflow
Authors: Ho Howard Haonan , Essel Ebenezer Ekow , Sullivan Pierre Edward
Published: December 2023

Three different circular synthetic jet modeling inlet conditions are studied for a turbulent crossflow. The study examines the differences when modeling the whole synthetic jet actuators (SJA), neck-only or jet-slot-only under constant actuation frequency (f = 300 Hz), and crossflow blowing ratio (CB = 0.67). Phase-averaged and time-averaged results reveal that both whole SJA and neck-only methods generated nearly identical flow fields. For the neck-only case, a notable reduction in computational cost is achieved through the implementation of an analytical jet profile. The jet-slot-only method, on the other hand, introduces reversed flow during the ingestion cycle, leading to the injection of false-momentum into the crossflow. However, the false-momentum primarily affects the flow immediately downstream of the jet exit, with the boundary layer profile recovering rapidly. A parametric study highlights the importance of maintaining a volume ratio less than 1 of ingested to modeled neck volume to prevent the creation of false-momentum.
Fundamentals of Nuclear Fuel
Authors: Onder E. Nihan
Published: December 2023

A revival in nuclear energy has prompted more questions about nuclear fuel, and this monograph focused on the Fundamentals of Nuclear Fuel subject comes in right time. Whether we are talking about maintaining operation of current generation or evaluating advanced concepts of nuclear power plants, the nuclear fuel, its steady supply, and reliable performance is at the heart of nuclear power. Nuclear fuel is ultimate source of energy and at the same time the very first physical barrier to confine radioactive material and prevents its release to environment. Fuels that have been traditional used in operational nuclear (and research) reactors or considered for next generation of nuclear reactors come in different forms: solid (i.e., metallic, oxide, nitride, carbide and silicide) and liquid (i.e., molten salt). All these forms have advantages and disadvantages, and many are discussed through the monograph. The monograph discusses the operational as well as promising advanced fuel and cladding materials, fuel performance, fuel failure mechanisms and fuel safety criteria.
Mitochondrial-targeted antioxidant attenuates preeclampsia-like phenotypes induced by syncytiotrophoblast-specific Gαq signaling
Authors: Opichka Megan A. , Livergood M. Christine , Balapattabi Kirthikaa , Ritter McKenzie L. , Brozoski Daniel T. , Wackman Kelsey K. , Lu Ko-Ting , Kozak Kaleigh N. , Wells Clive , Fogo Agnes B. , Gibson-Corley Katherine N. , Kwitek Anne E. , Sigmund Curt D. , McIntosh Jennifer J. , Grobe Justin L.
Published: December 2023

Syncytiotrophoblast stress is theorized to drive development of preeclampsia, but its molecular causes and consequences remain largely undefined. Multiple hormones implicated in preeclampsia signal via the Gαq cascade, leading to the hypothesis that excess Gαq signaling within the syncytiotrophoblast may contribute. First, we present data supporting increased Gαq signaling and antioxidant responses within villous and syncytiotrophoblast samples of human preeclamptic placenta. Second, Gαq was activated in mouse placenta using Cre-lox and DREADD methodologies. Syncytiotrophoblast-restricted Gαq activation caused hypertension, kidney damage, proteinuria, elevated circulating proinflammatory factors, decreased placental vascularization, diminished spiral artery diameter, and augmented responses to mitochondrial-derived superoxide. Administration of the mitochondrial-targeted antioxidant Mitoquinone attenuated maternal proteinuria, lowered circulating inflammatory and anti-angiogenic mediators, and maintained placental vascularization. These data demonstrate a causal relationship between syncytiotrophoblast stress and the development of preeclampsia and identify elevated Gαq signaling and mitochondrial reactive oxygen species as a cause of this stress.
Nanoplankton: The dominant vector for carbon export across the Atlantic Southern Ocean in spring
Authors: Flynn Raquel F. , Haraguchi Lumi , McQuaid Jeff , Burger Jessica M. , Mutseka Lunga Percy , Stirnimann Luca , Samanta Saumik , Roychoudhury Alakendra N. , Fawcett Sarah E.
Published: December 2023

Across the Southern Ocean, large (≥20 μm) diatoms are generally assumed to be the primary vector for carbon export, although this assumption derives mainly from summertime observations. Here, we investigated carbon production and export potential during the Atlantic Southern Ocean’s spring bloom from size-fractionated measurements of net primary production (NPP), nitrogen (nitrate, ammonium, urea) and iron (labile inorganic iron, organically complexed iron) uptake, and a high-resolution characterization of phytoplankton community composition. The nanoplankton-sized (2.7 to 20 μm) diatom,
Chaetoceros
spp., dominated the biomass, NPP, and nitrate uptake across the basin (40°S to 56°S), which we attribute to their low iron requirement, rapid response to increased light, and ability to escape grazing when aggregated into chains. We estimate that the spring
Chaetoceros
bloom accounted for >25% of annual export production across the Atlantic Southern Ocean, a finding consistent with recent observations from other regions highlighting the central role of the phytoplankton “middle class” in carbon export.
Real-time gigahertz free-space quantum key distribution within an emulated satellite overpass
Authors: Roger Thomas , Singh Ravinder , Perumangatt Chithrabhanu , Marangon Davide G. , Sanzaro Mirko , Smith Peter R. , Woodward Robert I. , Shields Andrew J.
Published: December 2023

Satellite quantum key distribution (SatQKD) intermediated by a trusted satellite in a low-Earth orbit to ground stations along the satellite’s path allows remote users to connect securely. To establish a secure connection, a SatQKD session must be conducted to each user over a dynamically changing free-space link, all within just a few hundred seconds. Because of the short time and large losses under which the QKD protocol will be implemented, it has not yet been possible to form a complete key by transmitting all the relevant information required within a single overpass of the satellite. Here, we demonstrate a real-time QKD system that is capable of forming a 4.58-megabit secure key between two nodes within an emulated satellite overpass. We anticipate that our system will set the stage for practical implementations of intercontinental quantum secure communications that can operate over large networks of nodes and enable the secure transmission of data globally.
The chilling origin of germinal centers
Authors: Boehm Thomas
Published: December 2023

Germinal center–like structures have been identified in ectothermic vertebrates, establishing germinal centers as a universal component of humoral immunity (see related Research Article by Shibasaki
et al.
)
Loss-of-function mutations in
ndh
do not confer delamanid, ethionamide, isoniazid, or pretomanid resistance in
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
Authors: Pandey Sushil , Vilchèze Catherine , Werngren Jim , Bainomugisa Arnold , Mansjö Mikael , Groenheit Ramona , Miotto Paolo , Cirillo Daniela M. , Coulter Christopher , Baulard Alain R. , Schön Thomas , Jacobs William R. , Djaout Kamel , Köser Claudio U.
Published: December 2023

Results from clinical strains and knockouts of the H37Rv and CDC1551 laboratory strains demonstrated that
ndh
(
Rv1854c
) is not a resistance-conferring gene for isoniazid, ethionamide, delamanid, or pretomanid in
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
. This difference in the susceptibility to NAD-adduct-forming drugs compared with other mycobacteria may be driven by differences in the absolute intrabacterial NADH concentration.
Performance assessment of the Bruker Biotyper MALDI-TOF MS for the identification of difficult-to-identify viridans group streptococci
Authors: Wan Tsai-Wen , Lee Tai-Fen , Chen Xiang-Jun , Hunag Yun-Tsung , Teng Lee-Jene , Hsueh Po-Ren , Chiu Hao-Chieh
Published: December 2023

Differentiating
Streptococcus pneumoniae
among nonpneumococcal viridans group streptococci (VGS) is challenging in conventional laboratories. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the performance of the latest Bruker Biotyper matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS) system in identifying VGS by comparing the results to those of the specific gene sequencing approach. Clinical isolates were initially identified using the BD Phoenix system to identify
Streptococcus
species. The optochin test was used to distinguish nonpneumococcal VGS from
S. pneumoniae
. The species of individual reference strains and clinical isolates were determined by comparing the sequences of the 16S rDNA,
gyrB
,
sodA
,
groESL
, or
coaE
genes with those in the GenBank sequence databases. We evaluated the performance of the Bruker Biotyper MALDI-TOF MS in VGS identification using two different machines with three databases. We collected a total of 103 nonpneumococcal VGS and 29
S
.
pneumoniae
blood isolates at a medical center in northern Taiwan. Among these isolates, only seven could not be identified at the species level by the specific gene sequencing approach. We found that none of the nonpneumococcal VGS isolates were misidentified as pneumococci by the latest Biotyper system, and vice versa. However, certain strains, especially those in the mitis and bovis groups, could still not be correctly identified. The latest Bruker Biotyper 4.1 (DB_10833) showed significant improvement in identifying VGS strains. However, a specific gene sequencing test is still needed to precisely differentiate the species of strains in the mitis and bovis groups.
Classical swine fever virus NS5A protein activates autophagy via the PP2A-DAPK3-Beclin 1 axis
Authors: Sun Jinfu , Yu Haixiao , Wang Yingnan , Li Liming , Zhu Jinqi , Ma Ping , Feng Zezhong , Tu Changchun
Published: December 2023

Classical swine fever virus nonstructural protein NS5A is essential for viral genome replication, protein translation, virus assembly, and autophagy. In the present paper, the interaction of cellular PPP2R1A, PP2Ac, and DAPK3 with NS5A has been confirmed. These interactions mediate the dissociation of PP2A from Beclin 1 and its association with DAPK3. Downregulation of DAPK3 or PPP2R1A inhibits CSFV replication. NS5A induced phosphorylation of Ser88 (PK-15 cells) or Ser90 (HEK293T cells) on Beclin 1. Knockdown of Beclin 1 inhibited NS5A-induced autophagy, indicating that NS5A induces Beclin 1-dependent autophagy. Downregulation of DAPK3, PPP2R1A, or PP2Ac by siRNA reduced Beclin 1 phosphorylation and autophagy mediated by NS5A, showing a critical role of PP2A and DAPK3 in Beclin 1 phosphorylation and autophagy triggered by NS5A.
In vitro
analysis of Beclin 1 phosphorylation revealed PP2A as being essential for DAPK3-mediated phosphorylation of Beclin 1, indicating that PP2A may dephosphorylate DAPK3 to activate its protein kinase activity, with activated DAPK3 phosphorylated Beclin 1, and then triggering autophagy. These data show for the first time that DAPK3 can be activated through dephosphorylation by PP2A. These findings reveal a novel mechanism whereby CSFV NS5A protein activates autophagy via PP2A-DAPK3-Beclin 1 axis to favor viral replication.

IMPORTANCE

Autophagy is a conserved degradation process that maintains cellular homeostasis and regulates native and adaptive immunity. Viruses have evolved diverse strategies to inhibit or activate autophagy for their benefit. The paper reveals that CSFV NS5A mediates the dissociation of PP2A from Beclin 1 and the association of PP2A with DAPK3 by interaction with PPP2R1A and DAPK3, PP2A dephosphorylates DAPK3 to activate its protein kinase activity, and activated DAPK3 phosphorylates Beclin 1 to trigger autophagy, indicating that NS5A activates autophagy via the PP2A-DAPK3-Beclin 1 axis. These data highlight a novel mechanism by which CSFV activates autophagy to favor its replication, thereby contributing to the development of antiviral strategies.
A multi-epitope/CXCL11 prime/pull coronavirus mucosal vaccine boosts the frequency and the function of lung-resident memory CD4
+
and CD8
+
T cells and enhanced protection against COVID-19-like symptoms and death caused by SARS-CoV-2 infection
Authors: Zayou Latifa , Prakash Swayam , Dhanushkodi Nisha Rajeswari , Quadiri Afshana , Ibraim Izabela Coimbra , Singer Mahmoud , Salem Amirah , Shaik Amin Mohammed , Suzer Berfin , Chilukuri Amruth , Tran Jennifer , Nguyen Pauline Chau , Sun Miyo , Hormi-Carver Kathy K. , Belmouden Ahmed , Vahed Hawa , Gil Daniel , Ulmer Jeffrey B. , BenMohamed Lbachir
Published: December 2023

The pandemic of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has created the largest global health crisis in almost a century. Low frequencies of functional SARS-CoV-2-specific CD4
+
and CD8
+
T cells in the lungs of COVID-19 patients have been associated with severe cases of COVID-19. Low levels of T cell-attracting CXCL9, CXCL10, and CXCL11 chemokines in infected lungs may not be sufficient for the migration of CD4
+
and CD8
+
T cells from circulation into infected lungs. We hypothesize that a coronavirus vaccine strategy that boosts the frequencies of functional SARS-CoV-2-specific CD4
+
and CD8
+
T cells in the lungs would lead to better protection from COVID-19-like symptoms. In the present study, we designed and pre-clinically tested the safety, immunogenicity, and protective efficacy of a novel multi-epitope/CXCL11 prime/pull mucosal coronavirus vaccine. This prime/pull vaccine strategy consists of intranasal delivery of a lung-tropic adeno-associated virus type 9 vector that incorporates highly conserved human CD4
+
and CD8
+
cell epitopes of SARS-CoV-2 (
prime
) followed by recruitment of the primed T cells into the lungs using the T cell-attracting chemokine, CXCL-11 (
pull
). We demonstrated that the immunization of HLA-DR*0101/HLA-A*0201/hACE2 triple transgenic mice with this multi-epitope/CXCL11 prime/pull coronavirus mucosal vaccine: (i) increased the frequencies of functional CD4
+
and CD8
+
T
EM
, T
CM
, and T
RM
cells in the lungs and (ii) reduced COVID-19-like symptoms, lowered virus replication, and prevented deaths following challenge with SARS-CoV-2. These findings demonstrate that bolstering the number of functional lung-resident memory CD4
+
and CD8
+
T cells improved protection against SARS-CoV-2 infection, COVID-19-like symptoms, and death.

IMPORTANCE

Although the current rate of SARS-CoV-2 infections has decreased significantly, COVID-19 still ranks very high as a cause of death worldwide. As of October 2023, the weekly mortality rate is still at 600 deaths in the United States alone, which surpasses even the worst mortality rates recorded for influenza. Thus, the long-term outlook of COVID-19 is still a serious concern outlining the need for the next-generation vaccine. This study found that a prime/pull coronavirus vaccine strategy increased the frequency of functional SARS-CoV-2-specific CD4
+
and CD8
+
memory T cells in the lungs of SARS-CoV-2-infected triple transgenic HLA-DR*0101/HLA-A*0201/hACE2 mouse model, thereby resulting in low viral titer and reduced COVID-19-like symptoms.
Joint application of metagenomic next-generation sequencing and histopathological examination for the diagnosis of pulmonary infectious disease
Authors: Yang Linhui , Wang Kaige , Li Yalun , Li Weimin , Liu Dan
Published: December 2023

The diagnosis of some pulmonary infectious diseases and their pathogens is very difficult. We clarified the diagnostic value of the joint application of metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) and histopathological examination for the diagnosis of pulmonary infectious diseases in this study. We retrospectively enrolled 108 patients with infectious and noninfectious diseases who visited the West China Hospital of Sichuan University from January 2019 to June 2022. Pathogens in core needle biopsy tissue were detected using mNGS and traditional pathological examination. The diagnostic accuracy of the combined mNGS and histopathology protocol for pulmonary infectious diseases was contrasted with that of histopathological examination alone. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC curve) of mNGS combined with histopathological examination was 0.840 for pulmonary infectious diseases, and the area under the ROC curve of histopathological examination alone was 0.644. The areas under the ROC curve of mNGS combined with histopathological examination for pulmonary fungal infection, pulmonary tuberculosis, and lung abscess were 0.876, 0.875, and 0.840, respectively. In pulmonary infectious diseases, the areas under the ROC curve of histopathological examination alone for the above three types of pulmonary infections were 0.760, 0.719, and 0.575, respectively. For pulmonary infectious diseases, a joint application of metagenomic next-generation sequencing and histopathological examination can not only be used for differential diagnosis but also increase the positive rate of pathogen identification compared with histopathological examination alone, especially for rare pathogen infections.

IMPORTANCE

The diagnosis of some pulmonary infectious diseases and their pathogens is very difficult. A more precise diagnosis of pulmonary infectious diseases can help clinicians use proper antibiotics as well as reduce the development of drug-resistant bacteria. In this study, we performed both mNGS and pathology on lung puncture biopsy tissue from patients and found that combined mNGS and histopathology testing was significantly more effective than histopathology testing alone in detecting infectious diseases and identifying infectious diseases. In addition, the combined approach improves the detection rate of pathogenic microorganisms in infectious diseases and can be used to guide precision clinical treatment.
The induced and intrinsic resistance of
Escherichia coli
to sanguinarine is mediated by AcrB efflux pump
Authors: Dai Jian-Sheng , Xu Jian , Shen Hao-Jie , Chen Ni-Pi , Zhu Bing-Qi , Xue Zheng-Jie , Chen Hao-Han , Ding Zhi-Shan , Ding Rui , Qian Chao-Dong
Published: December 2023

Sanguinarine-containing phytobiotic is becoming increasingly popularly utilized as antibiotic alternatives in animal production. However, their potential risks to the human health and environment remain poorly understood. The present study aims to evaluate the occurrence of drug resistance in
Escherichia coli
after treatment with sanguinarine and investigate the molecular basis associated with sanguinarine resistance. Repetitive exposure of
E. coli
to subinhibitory dose of this phytochemical selected for mutants within genes encoding AcrR or MarR, transcriptional regulators of the multidrug tripartite efflux pump AcrAB-TolC. Disruption of the gene
acrB
caused a 16-fold MIC decrease for sanguinarine against
E. coli
strains, while the susceptibility of
acrB
-deficient mutants to sanguinarine was restored in complemented strains with ectopically expressed
acrB
. Accumulation assays suggested that the high susceptibility of
acrB
-deficient mutants was a consequence of a decrease in drug efflux. Consistent with this, the antibacterial activity of sanguinarine against wild-type (WT) strains of
E. coli
was significantly strengthened by combining it with 1-(1-naphthylmethyl)-piperazine (NMP), a classical efflux pump inhibitor. In addition, the combination of
in silico
prediction, competitive inhibition assay, and functional analysis of AcrB variants led to the identification of sanguinarine as a CH3-preferring substrate of AcrB, which could partly explain the selectively enhanced antibacterial effect of NMP on sanguinarine.

IMPORTANCE

The use of plant extracts is increasing as an alternative to synthetic compounds, especially antibiotics. However, there is no sufficient knowledge on the mechanisms and potential risks of antibiotic resistance induced by these phytochemicals. In the present study, we found that stable drug resistant mutants of
E. coli
emerged after repetitive exposure to sanguinarine and demonstrated that the AcrB efflux pump contributed to the emerging of induced and intrinsic resistance of
E. coli
to this phytochemical. Our results offered some insights into comprehending and preventing the onset of drug-resistant strains when utilizing products containing sanguinarine.