bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigation of the interface of fungal mycelium composite building materials by means of low‐vacuum scanning electron microscopy
Authors: Lehmann Christian , Schmidt Bertram , Stephan Dietmar , Meyer Vera
Published: March 2024

Low‐vacuum scanning electron microscopy (low‐vacuum SEM) is widely used for different applications, such as the investigation of noncoated specimen or the observation of biological materials, which are not stable to high vacuum. In this study, the combination of mineral building materials (concrete or clay plaster) with a biological composite (fungal mycelium composite) by using low‐vacuum SEM was investigated.

Fungal biotechnology is increasingly gaining prominence in addressing the challenges of sustainability transformation. The construction industry is one of the biggest contributors to the climate crises and, therefore, can highly profit from applications based on regenerative fungal materials. In this work, a fungal mycelium composite is used as alternative to conventional insulating materials like Styrofoam. However, to adapt bio‐based products to the construction industry, investigations, optimisations and adaptations to existing solutions are needed. This paper examines the compatibility between fungal mycelium materials with mineral‐based materials to demonstrate basic feasibility. For this purpose, fresh and hardened concrete specimens as well as clay plaster samples are combined with growing mycelium from the tinder fungus Fomes fomentarius. The contact zone between the mycelium composite and the mineral building materials is examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM).

The combination of these materials proves to be feasible in general. The use of hardened concrete or clay with living mycelium composite appears to be the favoured variant, as the hyphae can grow into the surface of the building material and thus a layered structure with a stable connection is formed.

In order to work with the combination of low‐density organic materials and higher‐density inorganic materials simultaneously, low‐vacuum SEM offers a suitable method to deliver results with reduced effort in preparation while maintaining high capture and magnification quality. Not only are image recordings possible with SE and BSE, but EDX measurements can also be carried out quickly without the influence of a coating. Depending on the signal used, as well as the magnification, image‐recording strategies must be adapted. Especially when using SE, an image‐integration method was used to reduce the build‐up of point charges from the electron beam, which damages the mycelial hyphae. Additionally using different signals during image capture is recommended to confirm acquired information, avoiding misinterpretations.
The COVID‐19 pandemic and adolescents' and young adults' experiences at school: A systematic narrative review
Authors: Benner Aprile D. , Harrington Madeline K. , Kealy Carmen , Nwafor Chidozie E.
Published: March 2024

The COVID‐19 pandemic upended the lives of adolescents and young adults across the globe. In response to the pandemic onset, educational institutions were forced to pivot to online learning, a new teaching and learning format for most secondary and university students. This systematic narrative review summarizes findings from 168 publications spanning 56 countries on students' educational outcomes and school climate as well as the internal assets and contextual supports that promoted academic well‐being during the pandemic. Our findings suggest that young people commonly reported declines in their academic‐related outcomes and school‐based relationships due to the COVID‐19 pandemic. Internal assets (e.g., intrinsic motivation and self‐efficacy) and contextual supports (i.e., relationships with teachers, peers, and parents) promoted academic well‐being during the pandemic. Next steps for research on young people's academic well‐being during the pandemic are suggested.
A perspective on policies and practices regarding access to and quality of healthcare for people with intellectual disabilities in Zambia
Authors: Namulwanda Makambe , Nijhof Kim , Mwembeshi Helen , Kunda Richard , Ng'uni Kamima , Bevelander Kirsten , Boot Fleur Heleen
Published: March 2024

Zambia is a low‐income country on the African continent which is facing a high rate of health inequalities. Although the government has made efforts to reform the organization of healthcare to reduce inequalities, the practical implementation of disability policies remains challenging. Specifically, people with intellectual disabilities (ID) face barriers to accessing healthcare services in Zambia, due to geographic or socioeconomic factors, stigma, and limited specialized health professionals. This perspective paper provides an overview of the current policy and organization on the healthcare provision for people with ID. It presents the key challenges people with ID face in Zambia to access quality healthcare services. Additionally, we provide examples of good practices with a community approach. We discuss policy implementation of disability rights, including access to healthcare, the impact of raising knowledge and awareness about people with ID, and how gathering contextual information through research can help to reduce inequalities. Community and culturally sensitive approaches to improve access to healthcare for people with ID in Zambia are crucial. We call for close collaboration between the fields of research and practice to combine expertise and strengthen the impact and possibilities of scaling good practices within Zambia.
Rok from B. subtilis: Bridging genome structure and transcription regulation
Authors: Erkelens Amanda M. , van Erp Bert , Meijer Wilfried J. J. , Dame Remus T.
Published: March 2024

Bacterial genomes are folded and organized into compact yet dynamic structures, called nucleoids. Nucleoid orchestration involves many factors at multiple length scales, such as nucleoid‐associated proteins and liquid–liquid phase separation, and has to be compatible with replication and transcription. Possibly, genome organization plays an intrinsic role in transcription regulation, in addition to classical transcription factors. In this review, we provide arguments supporting this view using the Gram‐positive bacterium Bacillus subtilis as a model. Proteins BsSMC, HBsu and Rok all impact the structure of the B. subtilis chromosome. Particularly for Rok, there is compelling evidence that it combines its structural function with a role as global gene regulator. Many studies describe either function of Rok, but rarely both are addressed at the same time. Here, we review both sides of the coin and integrate them into one model. Rok forms unusually stable DNA–DNA bridges and this ability likely underlies its repressive effect on transcription by either preventing RNA polymerase from binding to DNA or trapping it inside DNA loops. Partner proteins are needed to change or relieve Rok‐mediated gene repression. Lastly, we investigate which features characterize H‐NS‐like proteins, a family that, at present, lacks a clear definition.
Gene transfer agents: The ambiguous role of selfless viruses in genetic exchange and bacterial evolution
Authors: Fogg Paul Christopher Michael
Published: March 2024

Gene transfer agents (GTAs) are genetic elements derived from ancestral bacteriophages that have become domesticated by the host. GTAs are present in diverse prokaryotic organisms, where they can facilitate horizontal gene transfer under certain conditions. Unlike typical bacteriophages, GTAs do not exhibit any preference for the replication or transfer of the genes encoding them; instead, they exhibit a remarkable capacity to package chromosomal, and sometimes extrachromosomal, DNA into virus‐like capsids and disseminate it to neighboring cells. Because GTAs resemble defective prophages, identification of novel GTAs is not trivial. The detection of candidates relies on the genetic similarity to known GTAs, which has been fruitful in α‐proteobacterial lineages but challenging in more distant bacteria. Here we consider several fundamental questions: What is the true prevalence of GTAs in prokaryote genomes? Given there are high costs for GTA production, what advantage do GTAs provide to the bacterial host to justify their maintenance? How is the bacterial chromosome recognized and processed for inclusion in GTA particles? This article highlights the challenges in comprehensively understanding GTAs' prevalence, function and DNA packaging method. Going forward, broad study of atypical GTAs and use of ecologically relevant conditions are required to uncover their true impact on bacterial chromosome evolution.
Gluten sensitivity based on HLA genotyping in patients with epilepsy in a tertiary hospital in Malaysia
Authors: Bhaskar Shalini , Reffien Nur Malina Mat , Teh Lay Kek , Raymond Azman Ali , Salleh Mohd Zaki
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Gluten sensitivity (GS) is present in approximately 1% of the Malaysian population (Yap et al., PLoS One, 10, 2015, e0121908). GS is associated with several neurological conditions including epilepsy. Individuals with GS often exhibit a genetic predisposition associated with human leukocyte antigens (HLA) (Cecilio & Bonatto, Arq Bras Cir Dig, 28, 2015, 183). The purpose of this study was to investigate the prevalence of GS based on HLA genotyping in patients with epilepsy (PWE).

Method

In total, 50 PWE and 50 controls were recruited. DNA was extracted from the venous blood samples and genotyped for HLA‐DQ2.2, DQ2.5, DQ7 and DQ 8. In this study, GS was diagnosed if any subject showed positive for one or more of the HLA‐DQ alleles. The type of epilepsy and number of antiseizure medication (ASM) used were recorded.

Results

Only 2 alleles (HLA‐DQ 2.2 & HLA‐DQ8) were detected among 46 out of 100 subjects. 18 PWE and 19 controls were positive for HLA‐DQ8 (p = 0.836). 9 of the PWE, but no controls were positive for HLA‐DQ 2.2 (p = 0.003). 8 of these 9 PWE who were positive for HLA‐DQ 2.2 were also positive for HLA‐DQ8 (double positive), and these patients required multiple ASM for seizure control (p = 0.006).

Conclusion

HLA‐DQ2.2 was seen highly prevalent in PWE. The double positives required more than one ASM for seizure control postulating malabsorption of ASM in these individuals. These findings suggest that HLA‐DQ genotyping may be a valuable additional test in PWE especially in those needing more than one ASM. Prescribing gluten‐free diet (GFD) to PWE with GS may potentially be an additional measure to achieve seizure control.
Between hope and disillusionment: ECMO seen through the lens of nurses working in a neonatal and paediatric intensive care unit
Authors: Jucker Jovana A. , Cannizzaro Vincenzo , Kirsch Roxanne E. , Streuli Jürg C. , De Clercq Eva
Published: March 2024

Background

Using extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) in paediatric and neonatal intensive care units (PICU/NICU) creates ethical challenges and carries a high risk for moral distress, burn out and team conflicts.

Aim

The study aimed to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the underlying factors affecting moral distress when using ECMO for infants and children by examining the attitudes of ECMO nurses.

Methods

Four focus groups discussions were conducted with 21 critical care nurses working in a Swiss University Children's Hospital. Purposive sampling was adopted to identify research participants. The data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis.

Results

Unlike “miracle machine” stories in online media reports, specialized nurses working in PICU/NICU expressed both their hopes and fears towards this technology. Their accounts also contained references to events and factors that triggered experiences of moral distress: the unspeakable nature of the death of a child or infant; the seemingly lack of honest and transparent communication with parents; the apparent loss of situational awareness among doctors; the perceived lack of recognition for the role of nurses and the variability in end‐of‐life decision‐making; the length of time it takes doctors to take important treatment decisions; and the resource intensity of an ECMO treatment.

Conclusion

The creation of a multidisciplinary moral community with transparent information among all involved health care professionals and the definition of clear treatment goals as well as the implementation of paediatric palliative care for all paediatric ECMO patients should become a priority if we want to alleviate situations of moral distress.

Relevance for Clinical Practice

The creation of a multidisciplinary moral community, clear treatment goals and the implementation of palliative care for all paediatric ECMO patients are crucial to alleviate situations of moral distress for nurses, and thus to improve provider well‐being and the quality of patient care in PICU/NICU.
Temperate woody species across the angiosperm phylogeny acquire tolerance to water deficit stress during the growing season
Authors: Grossman Jake J. , Coe Henry B. , Fey Olivia , Fraser Natalie , Salaam Musa , Semper Chelsea , Williamson Ceci G.
Published: March 2024

Understanding the capacity of temperate trees to acclimate to limited soil water has become essential in the face of increasing drought risk due to climate change. We documented seasonal – or phenological – patterns in acclimation to water deficit stress in stems and leaves of tree species spanning the angiosperm phylogeny.

Over 3 yr of field observations carried out in two US arboreta, we measured stem vulnerability to embolism (36 individuals of 7 Species) and turgor loss point (119 individuals of 27 species) over the growing season. We also conducted a growth chamber experiment on 20 individuals of one species to assess the mechanistic relationship between soil water restriction and acclimation.

In three‐quarters of species measured, plants became less vulnerable to embolism and/or loss of turgor over the growing season. We were able to stimulate this acclimatory effect by withholding water in the growth chamber experiment.

Temperate angiosperms are capable of acclimation to soil water deficit stress, showing maximum vulnerability to soil water deficits following budbreak and becoming more resilient to damage over the course of the growing season or in response to simulated drought. The species‐specific tempo and extent of this acclimatory potential constitutes preadaptive climate change resilience.
Generative AI and generative education
Authors: Gilbert Thomas Krendl
Published: March 2024

There is much public anxiety about how today's students use chatbots to complete assignments. But AI's integration within schools will more deeply impact the next generation of college graduates. The market value of future college degrees is far from certain.
Editing the nuclear localization signals of E1 and E1Lb enables the production of tropical soybean in temperate growing regions
Authors: Gao Yang , Zhang Yuguo , Ma Chuanyu , Chen Yanhui , Liu Chunxia , Wang Yanli , Wang Songyuan , Chen Xi
Published: March 2024

Soybean is a typical short‐day crop, and most commercial soybean cultivars are restricted to a relatively narrow range of latitudes due to photoperiod sensitivity. Photoperiod sensitivity hinders the utilization of soybean germplasms across geographical regions. When grown in temperate regions, tropical soybean responds to prolonged day length by increasing the vegetative growth phase and delaying flowering and maturity, which often pushes the harvest window past the first frost date. In this study, we used CRISPR/LbCas12a to edit a North American subtropical soybean cultivar named 06KG218440 that belongs to maturity group 5.5. By designing one gRNA to edit the nuclear localization signal (NLS) regions of both E1 and E1Lb, we created a series of new germplasms with shortened flowering time and time to maturity and determined their favourable latitudinal zone for cultivation. The novel partial function alleles successfully achieve yield and early maturity trade‐offs and exhibit good agronomic traits and high yields in temperate regions. This work offers a straightforward editing strategy to modify subtropical and tropical soybean cultivars for temperate growing regions, a strategy that could be used to enrich genetic diversity in temperate breeding programmes and facilitate the introduction of important crop traits such as disease tolerance or high yield.
The development and challenges of public health nursing education in China from 1912 to 1949: A historical study
Authors: Xu Jianou , Luo Caifeng , Lu Rongzhu
Published: March 2024

Objective

To examine the development and challenges of public health nursing education in China during the period of the Republic of China (1912‐1949).

Methods

This study utilized a historical research design that combined a social framework and a policy framework to explore the early history of public health nursing education in China. Historical data were collected from periodicals, newspapers, archives, books and other sources.

Results

Public health was integrated into the nursing school curriculum for the first time during the period of the Republic of China, and health facilities and nursing schools conducted early explorations of public health nurse training. However, public health nursing education faced difficulties in terms of the curriculum, personnel training, and the localization of education.

Conclusions

The achievements and difficulties associated with public health nursing education in China during the period of the Republic of China provide a historical reference for the integration of public health into current basic nursing education and the compatibility between the training of public health nurses and practical needs. Comparative studies of early public health nursing education across countries are expected to offer a better understanding of current public health nursing education.
Indentation stress–strain analysis and finite element simulation to determine elastoplastic properties of thin films decreasing the substrate contribution
Authors: Jirón‐Lazos U. , Pérez‐Higareda J. R. , Mazón‐Montijo D. A. , Montiel‐González Z. , Torres‐Torres D.
Published: March 2024

The mechanical performance of protective coatings is crucial in daily industrial environments, with transition metal nitrides being among the most commonly used hard coatings for machining tool protection. However, determining their elastoplastic properties via conventional methods can be challenging due to the thickness‐dependent response of film/substrate systems. In this study, we utilised two sputtering Ti‐Al‐N films as a model hard thin film/soft substrate system to showcase an alternative methodology to the Oliver and Pharr method. This alternative approach involves determining Young's modulus, yield stress and hardness through indentation stress–strain curves obtained from nanoindentation tests, effectively decreasing the substrate's contribution. This decrease was corroborated by finite element simulations conducted on films with thickness below 1.0 μm. The elastoplastic properties determined using our methodology fell within the range reported for typical Ti‐Al‐N films. Furthermore, by applying our methodology, we were able to correlate and discuss the observed differences in mechanical behaviour between the two films based solely on their microstructural, compositional and morphological properties. Thus, we have demonstrated a viable alternative methodology to address substrate contribution challenges in the mechanical characterisation of thin film/substrate systems when employing an indenter with a large radius of curvature (~650 nm). This research holds potential implications for the design of protective submicrometric films with industrial applications.
Evaluating the effects of hypoxic storage on platelet function and health using a novel storage system
Authors: Weaver A. J. , McIntosh C. S. , Kelly S. G. , Barrera G. D. , Lizarraga S. , Hildreth K. E. , Williams C. E. , Grantham L. , Yoshida T. , Omert L. , Bynum J. A. , Meledeo M. A. , Reddoch‐Cardenas K. M.
Published: March 2024

Background

Thousands of units of whole blood (WB) and blood components are transfused daily to treat trauma patients. Improved methods for blood storage are critical to support trauma‐related care. The Hemanext ONE® system offers a unique method for hypoxic storage of WB, with successfully demonstrated storage of clinically viable RBCs. This work evaluated the system for the storage of WB, focusing on platelet health and function.

Study Design and Methods

WB was collected from healthy donors and processed through the Hemanext ONE® system. Hemoglobin oxygen saturation (HbSO2) levels of WB were depleted to 10%, 20%, or 30% of total HbSO2 and then stored in PVC bags sealed in oxygen‐impermeable bags (except for normoxic control) with samples collected on days 1, 7, and 14 post‐processing. Flow cytometry assessed the activation and apoptosis of platelets. Clot dynamics were assessed based on aggregometry and thromboelastography assays, as well as thrombin generation using a calibrated‐automated thrombogram method.

Results

Hypoxic storage conditions were maintained throughout the storage period. Hypoxia triggered increased lactate production, but pH changes were negligible compared to normoxic control. Storage at 10% HbSO2 had a significant impact on platelet function, resulting in increased activation and reduced clot formation and aggregation. These effects were less significant at 20% and 30% HbSO2.

Discussion

This study indicates that platelets are sensitive to hypoxic storage and suffer significant metabolic and functional deterioration when stored at or below 10% HbSO2.
Age and sex differences in microvascular responses during reactive hyperaemia
Authors: Citherlet Tom , Raberin Antoine , Manferdelli Giorgio , Mota Gustavo R. , Millet Grégoire P.
Published: March 2024

Microvascular impairments are typical of several cardiovascular diseases. Near‐infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) combined with a vascular occlusion test provides non‐invasive insights into microvascular responses by monitoring skeletal muscle oxygenation changes during reactive hyperaemia. Despite increasing interest in the effects of sex and ageing on microvascular responses, evidence remains inconsistent. Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate the effects of sex and age on microvascular responsiveness. Twenty‐seven participants (seven young men and seven young women; seven older men and six older women; aged 26 ± 1, 26 ± 4, 67 ± 3 and 69 ± 4 years, respectively) completed a vascular occlusion test consisting of 5 min of arterial occlusion followed by 5 min reperfusion. Oxygenation changes in the vastus lateralis were monitored by near‐infrared spectroscopy. The findings revealed that both women (referring to young and older women) and older participants (referring to both men and women) exhibited lower microvascular responsiveness. Notably, both women and older participants demonstrated reduced desaturation (−38% and −59%, respectively) and reperfusion rates (−24% and −40%, respectively) along with a narrower range of tissue oxygenation (−39% and −39%, respectively) and higher minimal tissue oxygenation levels (+34% and +21%, respectively). Women additionally displayed higher values in resting (+12%) and time‐to‐peak (+15%) tissue oxygenation levels. In conclusion, this study confirmed decreased microvascular responses in women and older individuals. These results emphasize the importance of considering sex and age when studying microvascular responses. Further research is needed to uncover the underlying mechanisms and clinical relevance of these findings, enabling the development of tailored strategies for preserving vascular health in diverse populations.
Validation of Dynamic 3D MRI for Urodynamics Assessment Using an Anatomically Realistic In Vitro Model of the Bladder
Authors: Rice James , Bushman Wade , Roldán-Alzate Alejandro
Published: March 2024

Lowery urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) affect a large majority of the aging population. 3D Dynamic MRI shows promise as a noninvasive diagnostic tool that can assess bladder anatomy and function (urodynamics) while overcoming challenges associated with current urodynamic assessment methods. However, validation of this technique remains an unmet need. In this study, an anatomically realistic, bladder-mimicking in vitro flow model was created and used to systematically benchmark 3D dynamic MRI performance using a highly controllable syringe pump. Time-resolved volumes of the synthetic bladder model were obtained during simulated filling and voiding events and used to calculate volumetric flowrate. During MRI acquisitions, pressure during each event was recorded and used to create PV loops for work assessment. Error between control and MRI-derived volume for voiding and filling events exhibited 3.36% and 4.66% differences, respectively. A slight increase in average error was observed for MRI-derived flowrate when compared to the control flowrate (4.90% and 7.67% for voiding and filling, respectively). Overall, average error in segmented volumes increased with decreasing volume flowrate. Pressure drops were observed during voiding. Pressure increased during filling. Enhanced validation of novel 3D MRI urodynamics is achieved by using high-resolution PIV for visualizing and quantifying velocity inside the bladder model, which is not currently possible with 3D Dynamic MRI.
Instability of Jeffrey Fluid Throughflow in a Porous Layer Induced by Heat Source and Soret Effect
Authors: Sen Raju , Roy Subrata , Narayana P. A. L. , Kairi Rishi Raj
Published: March 2024

In this study, we investigated the instability of thermosolutal convection of Jeffrey fluid in a porous layer with internal heating and the Soret effect. The layer is bounded by two fixed permeable parallel plates which are assumed to be isothermal and isosolutal. An existing initial flow in the vertical direction is passing the layer at a constant speed. The flow fields are adequately presented by PDEs and transformed into dimensionless forms. A small perturbation to the basic flow profiles with linear stability analysis results the problem in an eigenvalue problem. The Runge–Kutta method is used to derive the numerical value of the critical thermal Rayleigh number. The convective instability for asymptotic cases for Le=1 and Pe=0 are also examined as special cases. The analysis reveals that for a nonpositive Soret parameter the flow is stable for all Lewis numbers and independent of the heat source. But in the case of a positive Soret parameter in the absence of a heat source, the fluid flow is stable for Le≥3 while the influence of a heat source destabilizes the flow for Le>2. In high and low shear flows with increasing solutal gradient, the solutal Rayleigh number shows a highly destabilizing nature for all Le. Moreover, smaller relaxation and higher retardation time are the most unstable characteristics of the heat source system. In convective longitudinal rolls, the unicellular streamline patterns tend to become bi-cellular by the influence of positive Soret parameters and energy sources.
Surface Reaction of Electroosmotic Flow-Driven Free Antigens With Immobilized Magnetic-Microbeads-Tagged-Antibodies in Microchannels
Authors: Ajiboye Israel O. , Banerjee Rupak K.
Published: March 2024

Immunoassays based on reactions between target pathogen (antigen; Ag) and antibody (Ab) are frequently used for Ag detection. An external magnetic field was used to immobilize magnetic microbeads-tagged-antibodies (mMB-Ab) on the surface of a microchannel in the capture zone. The mMB-Ab was subsequently used for Ag detection. The objective of this numerical study, with experimental validation, is to assess the surface reaction between mMB-Ab and Ag in the presence of electro-osmotic flow (EOF). First, immobilization of mMB-Ab complex in the wall of the capture zone was achieved. Subsequently, the Ag was transported by EOF toward the capture zone to bind with the immobilized mMB-Ab. Lastly, mMB-Ab:Ag complex was formed and immobilized in the capture zone. A finite volume solver was used to implement the above steps. The surface reaction between the mMB-Ab and Ag was investigated in the presence of electric fields (E): 150 V/cm–450 V/cm and Ag concentrations: 0.001 M–1000 M. The depletion of mMB-Ab increases with time as the E decreases. Furthermore, as the concentration of Ag decreases, the depletion of mMB-Ab increases with time. These results quantify the detection of Ag using the EOF device; thus, signifying its potential for rapid throughput screening of Ag. This platform technology can lead to the development of portable devices for the detection of target cells, pathogens, and biomolecules for testing water systems, biological fluids, and biochemicals.
Efficient formation of single-copy human artificial chromosomes
Authors: Gambogi Craig W. , Birchak Gabriel J. , Mer Elie , Brown David M. , Yankson George , Kixmoeller Kathryn , Gavade Janardan N. , Espinoza Josh L. , Kashyap Prakriti , Dupont Chris L. , Logsdon Glennis A. , Heun Patrick , Glass John I. , Black Ben E.
Published: March 2024

Large DNA assembly methodologies underlie milestone achievements in synthetic prokaryotic and budding yeast chromosomes. While budding yeast control chromosome inheritance through ~125-base pair DNA sequence-defined centromeres, mammals and many other eukaryotes use large, epigenetic centromeres. Harnessing centromere epigenetics permits human artificial chromosome (HAC) formation but is not sufficient to avoid rampant multimerization of the initial DNA molecule upon introduction to cells. We describe an approach that efficiently forms single-copy HACs. It employs a ~750-kilobase construct that is sufficiently large to house the distinct chromatin types present at the inner and outer centromere, obviating the need to multimerize. Delivery to mammalian cells is streamlined by employing yeast spheroplast fusion. These developments permit faithful chromosome engineering in the context of metazoan cells.
Adaptive introgression of a visual preference gene
Authors: Rossi Matteo , Hausmann Alexander E. , Alcami Pepe , Moest Markus , Roussou Rodaria , Van Belleghem Steven M. , Wright Daniel Shane , Kuo Chi-Yun , Lozano-Urrego Daniela , Maulana Arif , Melo-Flórez Lina , Rueda-Muñoz Geraldine , McMahon Saoirse , Linares Mauricio , Osman Christof , McMillan W. Owen , Pardo-Diaz Carolina , Salazar Camilo , Merrill Richard M.
Published: March 2024

Visual preferences are important drivers of mate choice and sexual selection, but little is known of how they evolve at the genetic level. In this study, we took advantage of the diversity of bright warning patterns displayed by
Heliconius
butterflies, which are also used during mate choice. Combining behavioral, population genomic, and expression analyses, we show that two
Heliconius
species have evolved the same preferences for red patterns by exchanging genetic material through hybridization. Neural expression of
regucalcin1
correlates with visual preference across populations, and disruption of
regucalcin1
with CRISPR-Cas9 impairs courtship toward conspecific females, providing a direct link between gene and behavior. Our results support a role for hybridization during behavioral evolution and show how visually guided behaviors contributing to adaptation and speciation are encoded within the genome.
A genetic cause of male mate preference
Authors: Briscoe Adriana D.
Published: March 2024

A gene for mate preference has been shared between hybridizing butterfly species
Engineering better artificial chromosomes
Authors: Dawe R. Kelly
Published: March 2024

Constructing human artificial chromosomes in yeast avoids unintended multimerization
Foiling deadly prions
Authors: Wadman Meredith
Published: March 2024

Can the course of fatal prion diseases be changed by removing the protein before it goes bad?
In Antarctica, scientists track a dangerous bird flu
Authors: Stokstad Erik
Published: March 2024

Despite apparently minimal seabird deaths, grave concern for the next breeding season
Complete genome sequences of
Mycoplasma cynos
and
Mycoplasma felis
isolated from dogs and cats with infectious respiratory disease
Authors: Framst Isaac , Ramesh Priyatharshini , Cai Hugh Y. , Maboni Grazieli
Published: March 2024

Mycoplasma cynos
is a primary agent of pneumonia in dogs, and
Mycoplasma felis
is associated with upper respiratory tract disease in cats. We present complete genome sequences of 26 isolates from clinically affected dogs and cats. These genome sequences will facilitate new molecular and epidemiological analyses.
Pseudomonas fuscovaginae
quorum sensing studies: 5% dominates cell-to-cell conversations
Authors: Špacapan Mihael , Myers Michael P. , Braga Luca , Venturi Vittorio
Published: March 2024

A common feature of
N
-acyl-
l
-homoserine lactone (AHL) quorum-sensing (QS) systems is that the AHL signal is autoinducing. Once induced, a cell will further amplify the signal via a positive feedback loop.
Pseudomonas fuscovaginae
UPB0736 has two fully functional AHL QS systems, called PfsI/R and PfvI/R, which are inactive in a standard laboratory setting. In this work, we induce the QS systems with exogenous AHL signals and characterize the AHL signal amplification effect and QS activation dynamics at community and single-cell level. While the cognate signal is in both cases significantly further amplified to physiologically relevant levels, we observe only a limited response in terms of AHL synthase gene promoter activity. Additionally, the PfsI/R QS system exhibits a unique dramatic phenotypic heterogeneity, where only up to 5% of all cells amplify the signal further and are, thus, considered to be QS active.

IMPORTANCE

Bacteria use
N
-acyl-
l
-homoserine lactone (AHL) quorum-sensing (QS) systems for population-wide phenotypic coordination. The QS configuration in
Pseudomonas fuscovaginae
is dramatically different from other model examples of AHL QS signaling and, thus, represents an important exception to the norm, which usually states that QS triggers population-wide phenotypic transitions in relation to cell density. We argue that the differences in QS dynamics of
P. fuscovaginae
highlight its different evolutionary purpose, which is ultimately dictated by the selective pressures of its natural habitat. We hope that this example will further expand our understanding of the complex and yet unknown QS-enabled sociomicrobiology. Furthermore, we argue that exemptions to the QS norm will be found in other plant-pathogenic bacterial strains that grow in similar environments and that molecularly similar QS systems do not necessarily share a similar evolutionary purpose; therefore, generalizations about bacterial cell-to-cell signaling systems function should be avoided.
Retrieval of an inferior vena cava Greenfield filter 34 years after insertion
Authors: Ragland Amanda , Stevens Christopher , Bai Nancy , Ahuja Chaitanya , Virk Chiranjiv
Published: March 2024

Inferior vena cava (IVC) filters are engineered medical devices deployed in the IVC primarily to prevent a pulmonary embolism from occurring. In this article, we present a case of an IVC filter that was successfully retrieved from a patient after being in place for 34 years. The patient presented to hospital for trauma in which subsequent imaging showed tines of an IVC filter protruding outside of the vessel with one of the tines penetrating the duodenal wall. The filter was successfully removed with no complications. This report adds to the existing literature by yielding an example of an adverse risk that can be associated with the placement of IVC filters. In addition, to the authors’ best knowledge, this is the longest reported length of time that an IVC filter has stayed in a patient before being removed, thus adding another intriguing detail to the case.
What impact has the Centre of Research Excellence in Digestive Health made in the field of gastrointestinal health in Australia and internationally? Study protocol for impact evaluation using the FAIT framework
Authors: Koloski Natasha , Duncanson Kerith , Ramanathan Shanthi Ann , Rao Melanie , Holtmann Gerald , Talley Nicholas J
Published: March 2024

Introduction

The need for public research funding to be more accountable and demonstrate impact beyond typical academic outputs is increasing. This is particularly challenging and the science behind this form of research is in its infancy when applied to collaborative research funding such as that provided by the Australian National Health and Medical Research Council to the Centre for Research Excellence in Digestive Health (CRE-DH).

Methods and analysis

In this paper, we describe the protocol for applying the Framework to Assess the Impact from Translational health research to the CRE-DH. The study design involves a five-stage sequential mixed-method approach. In phase I, we developed an impact programme logic model to map the pathway to impact and establish key domains of benefit such as knowledge advancement, capacity building, clinical implementation, policy and legislation, community and economic impacts. In phase 2, we have identified and selected appropriate, measurable and timely impact indicators for each of these domains and established a data plan to capture the necessary data. Phase 3 will develop a model for cost–consequence analysis and identification of relevant data for microcosting and valuation of consequences. In phase 4, we will determine selected case studies to include in the narrative whereas phase 5 involves collation, data analysis and completion of the reporting of impact.

We expect this impact evaluation to comprehensively describe the contribution of the CRE-DH for intentional activity over the CRE-DH lifespan and beyond to improve outcomes for people suffering with chronic and debilitating digestive disorders.

Ethics and dissemination

This impact evaluation study has been registered with the Hunter New England Human Research Ethics Committee as project 2024/PID00336 and ethics application 2024/ETH00290. Results of this study will be disseminated via medical conferences, peer-reviewed publications, policy submissions, direct communication with relevant stakeholders, media and social media channels such as X (formely Twitter).
Assessing the accuracy of health facility typology in representing the availability of health services: a case study in Mali
Authors: Petragallo Samuel , Timoner Pablo , Hierink Fleur , Fuhrer Caroline , Toure Ousmane , Iknane Akory , Coulibaly Youssouf , Fall Ibrahima-Soce , Ray Nicolas
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Using health facility types as a measure of service availability is a common approach in international standards for health system policy and planning. However, this proxy may not accurately reflect the actual availability of specific health services.

Objective

This study aims to evaluate the reliability of health facility typology as an indicator of specific health service availability and explore whether certain facility types consistently provide particular services.

Design

We analysed a comprehensive dataset containing information from 1725 health facilities in Mali. To uncover and visualise patterns within the dataset, we used two analytical techniques: Multiple Correspondence Analysis and Between-Class Analysis. These analyses allowed us to quantitatively measure the influence of health facility types on the variation in health service provisioning. Additionally, we developed and calculated a Consistency Index, which assesses the consistency of a health facility type in providing specific health services. By examining various health facilities and services, we sought to determine the accuracy of facility types as indicators of service availability.

Setting

The study focused on the health system in Mali as a case study.

Results

Our findings indicate that using health facility types as a proxy for service availability in Mali is not an accurate representation. We observed that most of the variation in service provision does not stem from differences between facility types but rather within facility types. This suggests that relying solely on health facility typology may lead to an incomplete understanding of health service availability.

Conclusions

These results have significant implications for health policy and planning. The reliance on health facility types as indicators for health system policy and planning should be reconsidered. A more nuanced and evidence-based understanding of health service availability is crucial for effective health policy and planning, as well as for the assessment and monitoring of health systems.
Pancreatic quantitative sensory testing to predict treatment response of endoscopic therapy or surgery for painful chronic pancreatitis with pancreatic duct obstruction: study protocol for an observational clinical trial
Authors: Phillips Anna Evans , Afghani Elham , Akshintala Venkata Sandeep , Benos Panayiotis Y , Das Rohit , Drewes Asbjørn Mohr , Easler Jeffrey , Faghih Mahya , Gabbert Charles , Halappa Vivek , Khashab Mouen A , Olesen Søren Schou , Saloman Jami L , Sholosh Biatta , Slivka Adam , Wang Tianxiu , Yadav Dhiraj , Singh Vikesh K
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Treatment for abdominal pain in patients with chronic pancreatitis (CP) remains challenging in the setting of central nervous system sensitisation, a phenomenon of remodelling and neuronal hyperexcitability resulting from persistent pain stimuli. This is suspected to render affected individuals less likely to respond to conventional therapies. Endotherapy or surgical decompression is offered to patients with pancreatic duct obstruction. However, the response to treatment is unpredictable. Pancreatic quantitative sensory testing (P-QST), an investigative technique of standardised stimulations to test the pain system in CP, has been used for phenotyping patients into three mutually exclusive groups: no central sensitisation, segmental sensitisation (pancreatic viscerotome) and widespread hyperalgesia suggestive of supraspinal central sensitisation. We will test the predictive capability of the pretreatment P-QST phenotype to predict the likelihood of pain improvement following invasive treatment for painful CP.

Methods and analysis

This observational clinical trial will enrol 150 patients from the University of Pittsburgh, Johns Hopkins and Indiana University. Participants will undergo pretreatment phenotyping with P-QST. Treatment will be pancreatic endotherapy or surgery for clearance of painful pancreatic duct obstruction. Primary outcome: average pain score over the preceding 7 days measured by Numeric Rating Scale at 6 months postintervention. Secondary outcomes will include changes in opioid use during follow-up, and patient-reported outcomes in pain and quality of life at 3, 6 and 12 months after the intervention. Exploratory outcomes will include creation of a model for individualised prediction of response to invasive treatment.

Ethics and dissemination

The trial will evaluate the ability of P-QST to predict response to invasive treatment for painful CP and develop a predictive model for individualised prediction of treatment response for widespread use. This trial was approved by the University of Pittsburgh Institutional Review Board. Data and results will be reported and disseminated in conjunction with National Institutes of Health policies.

Trial registration number

NCT04996628.
Clinicoradiological and neuropathological evaluation of primary progressive aphasia
Authors: Shir Dror , Corriveau-Lecavalier Nick , Bermudez Noguera Camilo , Barnard Leland , Pham Nha Trang Thu , Botha Hugo , Duffy Joseph R , Clark Heather M , Utianski Rene L , Knopman David S , Petersen Ronald C , Boeve Bradley F , Murray Melissa E , Nguyen Aivi T , Reichard R Ross , Dickson Dennis W , Day Gregory S , Kremers Walter K , Graff-Radford Neill R , Jones David T , Machulda Mary M , Fields Julie A , Whitwell Jennifer L , Josephs Keith A , Graff-Radford Jonathan
Published: March 2024

Background

Primary progressive aphasia (PPA) defines a group of neurodegenerative disorders characterised by language decline. Three PPA variants correlate with distinct underlying pathologies: semantic variant PPA (svPPA) with transactive response DNA-binding protein of 43 kD (TDP-43) proteinopathy, agrammatic variant PPA (agPPA) with tau deposition and logopenic variant PPA (lvPPA) with Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Our objectives were to differentiate PPA variants using clinical and neuroimaging features, assess progression and evaluate structural MRI and a novel 18-F fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (FDG-PET) image decomposition machine learning algorithm for neuropathology prediction.

Methods

We analysed 82 autopsied patients diagnosed with PPA from 1998 to 2022. Clinical histories, language characteristics, neuropsychological results and brain imaging were reviewed. A machine learning framework using ak-nearest neighbours classifier assessed FDG-PET scans from 45 patients compared with a large reference database.

Results

PPA variant distribution: 35 lvPPA (80% AD), 28 agPPA (89% tauopathy) and 18 svPPA (72% frontotemporal lobar degeneration-TAR DNA-binding protein (FTLD-TDP)). Apraxia of speech was associated with 4R-tauopathy in agPPA, while pure agrammatic PPA without apraxia was linked to 3R-tauopathy. Longitudinal data revealed language dysfunction remained the predominant deficit for patients with lvPPA, agPPA evolved to corticobasal or progressive supranuclear palsy syndrome (64%) and svPPA progressed to behavioural variant frontotemporal dementia (44%). agPPA-4R-tauopathy exhibited limited pre-supplementary motor area atrophy, lvPPA-AD displayed temporal atrophy extending to the superior temporal sulcus and svPPA-FTLD-TDP had severe temporal pole atrophy. The FDG-PET-based machine learning algorithm accurately predicted clinical diagnoses and underlying pathologies.

Conclusions

Distinguishing 3R-taupathy and 4R-tauopathy in agPPA may rely on apraxia of speech presence. Additional linguistic and clinical features can aid neuropathology prediction. Our data-driven brain metabolism decomposition approach effectively predicts underlying neuropathology.
Intersection movements delay modelling based on crowd-sensed global positioning system trajectory data
Authors: Badran Adham , El-Geneidy Ahmed , Miranda-Moreno Luis
Published: March 2024

Developing accurate large-scale transportation models, used to guide policy adoption and evaluate infrastructure alternatives or changes in sociodemographic conditions, is data and resource intensive. This research proposes a novel method for modeling intersection movement delay using crowd-sensed Global Positioning System (GPS) data. This is achieved by providing a general definition of turning movements and extracting travel times thought GPS trajectory data analysis. Additionally, a straightforward method is proposed to integrate the observed delays per movement type into volume-delay functions. The spatial definition provided for turning movements captured distinct speed profiles per turn type. The significant differences in mean speeds for different turn types highlights the importance of integrating turn penalty functions based on real observations and underscore the importance of crowd-sensed GPS data. A simple technique is also proposed to integrate the proposed method into the volume-delay functions used in large scale transport models.