bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Shedding light on the relevance of asexual reproduction in the savannas: Cloning in Velloziaceae
Authors: Maracahipes Leandro , Faggiani Ana Paula S. , Campos Bruna H. , Oliveira Rafael S. , Pilon Natashi
Published: June 2024

During a biodiversity monitoring of woody and herbaceous plants in 2023, we observed the formation of new individuals through cloning in Velloziaceae species. Based on recorded evidence and scientific literature, we discussed the importance of cloning in maintaining the high dominance of these species in seasonal open ecosystems. In addition, we hope to shed light on the discussion of the importance of asexual reproduction through cloning and resprouting strategies in plants widely widespread in savanna ecosystems.

Abstract in Portuguese is available with online material.
Comparison of seven CD19 CAR designs in engineering NK cells for enhancing anti‐tumour activity
Authors: Wang Yao , Li Jianhuan , Wang Zhiqian , Liu Yanhong , Wang Tongjie , Zhang Mengyun , Xia Chengxiang , Zhang Fan , Huang Dehao , Zhang Leqiang , Zhao Yaoqin , Liu Lijuan , Zhu Yanping , Qi Hanmeng , Zhu Xiaofan , Qian Wenbin , Hu Fangxiao , Wang Jinyong
Published: June 2024

Chimeric antigen receptor‐natural killer (CAR‐NK) cell therapy is emerging as a promising cancer treatment, with notable safety and source diversity benefits over CAR‐T cells. This study focused on optimizing CAR constructs for NK cells to maximize their therapeutic potential. We designed seven CD19 CAR constructs and expressed them in NK cells using a retroviral system, assessing their tumour‐killing efficacy and persistence. Results showed all constructs enhanced tumour‐killing and prolonged survival in tumour‐bearing mice. In particular, CAR1 (CD8 TMD‐CD3ζ SD)‐NK cells showed superior efficacy in treating tumour‐bearing animals and exhibited enhanced persistence when combined with OX40 co‐stimulatory domain. Of note, CAR1‐NK cells were most effective at lower effector‐to‐target ratios, while CAR4 (CD8 TMD‐OX40 CD‐ FcεRIγ SD) compromised NK cell expansion ability. Superior survival rates were noted in mice treated with CAR1‐, CAR2 (CD8 TMD‐ FcεRIγ SD)‐, CAR3 (CD8 TMD‐OX40 CD‐ CD3ζ SD)‐ and CAR4‐NK cells over those treated with CAR5 (CD28 TMD‐ FcεRIγ SD)‐, CAR6 (CD8 TMD‐4‐1BB CD‐CD3ζ 1‐ITAM SD)‐ and CAR7 (CD8 TMD‐OX40 CD‐CD3ζ 1‐ITAM SD)‐NK cells, with CAR5‐NK cells showing the weakest anti‐tumour activity. Increased expression of exhaustion markers, especially in CAR7‐NK cells, suggests that combining CAR‐NK cells with immune checkpoint inhibitors might improve anti‐tumour outcomes. These findings provide crucial insights for developing CAR‐NK cell products for clinical applications.
Spatiotemporal patterns of forest pollinator diversity across the southeastern United States
Authors: Ulyshen Michael , Adams Cory , Adams Jacqui , Adams Susan B. , Bland Mickey , Bragg Don C. , Burdine Chuck , Callaham Mac A. , Chaney Richard , Chapman Gregg , Clinton Patsy , Dixon Cinnamon , Floyd Jacob , Jordan Phillip , Keyser Tara , Laseter Stephanie , Mallinger Rachel , McDaniel Virginia , Mudder Bryan , Nelson C. Dana , Odanaka Katherine , Oishi A. Christopher , Reid Shawna , Reynolds Samm , Robertson Kevin , Saenz Daniel , Sayer Mary Anne , Schiff Nathan , Scholtens Brian , Scott Joel , Spetich Martin , Taylor Melanie K. , Willis John L. , Young Andrew D.
Published: June 2024

Aim

Efforts to understand how pollinating insect diversity is distributed across large geographic areas are rare despite the importance of such work for conserving regional diversity. We sought to relate the diversity of bees (Hymenoptera: Apoidea), hover flies (Diptera: Syrphidae), and butterflies (Lepidoptera) to ecoregion, landscape context, canopy openness, and forest composition across southeastern U.S. forests.

Location

Nineteen experimental forests across nine states in the southeastern U.S.

Methods

We established 5–7 plots on each experimental forest. In each, we sampled pollinators monthly (March–September) using coloured pan traps, and collected data on local forest characteristics. We used the National Land Cover Database (NLCD) to quantify surrounding landcover at different spatial scales.

Results

Bee richness was negatively correlated with both the amount of conifer (pine) forest and the extent of wetlands in the surrounding landscape but was positively correlated with canopy openness. Hover flies and butterflies were less sensitive to landscape context and stand conditions. Pollinator communities differed considerably among ecoregions, with those of the Central Appalachian and Coastal Plain ecoregions being particularly distinct. Bee richness and abundance peaked 2 months earlier in Central Appalachia than in the Coastal Plain and Southeastern Mixed Forest ecoregions.

Main Conclusions

Our findings reveal ecoregional differences in pollinator communities across the southeastern U.S. and highlight the importance of landscape context and local forest conditions to this diverse fauna. The closed broadleaf forests of Appalachia and the open conifer‐dominated forests of the Coastal Plain support particularly distinct pollinator communities with contrasting seasonality. Our results suggest pine forests may reduce pollinator diversity in regions historically dominated by broadleaf forests. However, efforts to create more open canopies can help improve conditions for pollinators in planted pine forests. Research exploring associations between forest pollinators and different broadleaf tree taxa is needed to better anticipate the impacts of various management activities.
Teaching systems thinking for sustainable development in business schools: A hands‐on project using the online news
Authors: Guthrie Cameron
Published: June 2024

Business schools have a responsibility for educating global citizens capable of understanding and addressing the major societal challenges of the 21st century. However, working on complex societal problems within business school curricula remains a challenge. This teaching brief presents a learning project that helps instructors introduce systems‐thinking skills into the classroom to address complex problems of sustainability. The project involves students studying an issue of their choice within one of the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals and designing a multi‐stakeholder strategy to both alleviate problem symptoms and address their underlying causes and drivers. Analysis of student evaluations and feedback show that the project engages students and favors systems‐thinking skill acquisition. The project can be run either online or in the classroom, individually, in small teams, or with an entire class. It can be used by instructors for sustainable development, corporate social responsibility, and systems‐thinking classes, or be run as a capstone activity.
Change of function and brain activity in patients of right spastic arm paralysis combined with aphasia after contralateral cervical seventh nerve transfer surgery
Authors: Feng Juntao , Lv Minzhi , Ma Xingyi , Li Tie , Xu Miaomiao , Yang Jingrui , Su Fan , Hu Ruiping , Li Jie , Qiu Yanqun , Liu Ying , Shen Yundong , Xu Wendong
Published: June 2024

Left hemisphere injury can cause right spastic arm paralysis and aphasia, and recovery of both motor and language functions shares similar compensatory mechanisms and processes. Contralateral cervical seventh cross transfer (CC7) surgery can provide motor recovery for spastic arm paralysis by triggering interhemispheric plasticity, and self‐reports from patients indicate spontaneous improvement in language function but still need to be verified. To explore the improvements in motor and language function after CC7 surgery, we performed this prospective observational cohort study. The Upper Extremity part of Fugl‐Meyer scale (UEFM) and Modified Ashworth Scale were used to evaluate motor function, and Aphasia Quotient calculated by Mandarin version of the Western Aphasia Battery (WAB‐AQ, larger score indicates better language function) was assessed for language function. In 20 patients included, the average scores of UEFM increased by .40 and 3.70 points from baseline to 1‐week and 6‐month post‐surgery, respectively. The spasticity of the elbow and fingers decreased significantly at 1‐week post‐surgery, although partially recurred at 6‐month follow‐up. The average scores of WAB‐AQ were increased by 9.14 and 10.69 points at 1‐week and 6‐month post‐surgery (P < .001 for both), respectively. Post‐surgical fMRI scans revealed increased activity in the bilateral hemispheres related to language centrals, including the right precentral cortex and right gyrus rectus. These findings suggest that CC7 surgery not only enhances motor function but may also improve the aphasia quotient in patients with right arm paralysis and aphasia due to left hemisphere injuries.
SOVEREIGN UNCERTAINTY
Authors: Silgado‐Gómez Edgar
Published: June 2024

This article investigates the impact and transmission of uncertainty regarding the future path of government finances on economic activity. Employing a data‐rich approach, I introduce a novel proxy that captures uncertainty surrounding public finances, which I refer to as sovereign uncertainty. In an application to Spain, sovereign uncertainty shocks persistently dampen the economy in the medium run, whereas macro‐financial uncertainty shocks originating in the private sector induce a negative short‐lived response in real activity. In addition, a New Keynesian model rationalizes the empirical results, emphasizing the role of financial frictions and monetary policy decisions in transmitting the effects of sovereign uncertainty shocks.
An exploratory randomized clinical trial on negative pressure wound therapy for lower limb full‐thickness skin grafts of dermatosurgical patients
Authors: Lindholm Vivian Mikaela , Salminen Anna Wilhelmina , Koskenmies Sari Johanna , Salmivuori Mari Kaarina , Hannula‐Jouppi Katariina Sara Eriikka , Isoherranen Kirsi Maria
Published: June 2024

Full‐thickness skin graft (FTSG) reconstructions of lower limbs are especially prone to wound complications. Negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) enhances wound healing, but no broad evidence exists if it promotes graft take of lower leg FTSGs. In this investigator‐initiated, prospective, randomised and controlled trial, 20 patients with ambulatory FTSG reconstruction for lower limb skin cancers were randomised for postoperative treatment with either NPWT, or conventional dressings. As outcomes, adherence of the skin graft 1 week postoperatively, any wound complications within 3 months, including ≥3 weeks delayed wound healing, and the number of additional postoperative visits were compared. In both groups, grafts adhered equally well (p = 0.47); 80% of NPWT‐treated and 100% of control group grafts adhered >90%. There was no significant difference in the number of postoperative complications/delayed wound healing (p = 0.65); 70% of patients in the NPWT and 50% in the control group developed a wound complication. Both groups had an equal number of patients with at least three additional control visits (p = 1.0). The study was discontinued after 20 patients were recruited, as no benefit from NPWT was seen. To conclude, the study showed no benefit from NPWT for lower limb FTSGs.
Decreased Tiam1‐mediated Rac1 activation is responsible for impaired directional persistence of chondrocyte migration in microtia
Authors: Wu Yi , Liu Wei , Li Jia , Shi Hang , Ma Shize , Wang Di , Pan Bo , Xiao Ran , Jiang Haiyue , Liu Xia
Published: June 2024

The human auricle has a complex structure, and microtia is a congenital malformation characterized by decreased size and loss of elaborate structure in the affected ear with a high incidence. Our previous studies suggest that inadequate cell migration is the primary cytological basis for the pathogenesis of microtia, however, the underlying mechanism is unclear. Here, we further demonstrate that microtia chondrocytes show a decreased directional persistence during cell migration. Directional persistence can define a leading edge associated with oriented movement, and any mistakes would affect cell function and tissue morphology. By the screening of motility‐related genes and subsequent confirmations, active Rac1 (Rac1‐GTP) is identified to be critical for the impaired directional persistence of microtia chondrocytes migration. Moreover, Rho guanine nucleotide exchange factors (GEFs) and Rho GTPase‐activating proteins (GAPs) are detected, and overexpression of Tiam1 significantly upregulates the level of Rac1‐GTP and improves directional migration in microtia chondrocytes. Consistently, decreased expression patterns of Tiam1 and active Rac1 are found in microtia mouse models, Bmp5se/J and Prkralear‐3J/GrsrJ. Collectively, our results provide new insights into microtia development and therapeutic strategies of tissue engineering for microtia patients.
Self‐acknowledged limitations in exercise therapy trials for low back pain
Authors: Siviter Laura M. , Morretta Matthew , Petosky Teressa , Klopper Mareli , Rhon Daniel I. , Young Jodi L.
Published: June 2024

Rationale

Despite the widespread recommendation to engage in therapeutic exercise for the treatment of low back pain (LBP), there is conflicting evidence regarding clinical outcomes and effectiveness. Poor methodological quality may be to blame for reducing the overall strength of evidence for this intervention, yet little is known about the difficulties researchers encounter when designing and implementing their study methods.

Aims and Objectives

The aim of this study was to characterize the extent and type of self‐acknowledged limitations (SALs) in exercise therapy trials for LBP to gain a better understanding of challenges encountered when conducting this research.

Methods

This is a methodological review of clinical trials in which SALs were extracted, categorized by theme and subcategorized within each theme. Counts and prevalence rates were tabulated for the number of SALs in each category and subcategory.

Results

There were 914 SALs among the 312 included trials, with a mean of 2.93 (95% confidence interval [CI], 2.77–3.09) per trial. Analysis of the data resulted in the development of 13 distinct categories of limitations, among which were 37 subcategories. The top three categories pertained to statistical power (14.3% of total SALs), study length and/or follow‐up (14.3%) and inclusion criteria (14.2%). The top three subcategories were lack of long‐term follow‐up (13.8% of total SALs), inadequate sample size (13.3%) and inclusion of specific populations (12.3%).

Conclusion

Statistical power, study length and/or follow‐up, and inclusion criteria were the three most commonly reported categories of SALs in exercise trials for LBP. Lack of long‐term follow‐up, inadequate sample size and inclusion of specific populations were the most common subcategories. Research protocols recognizing and avoiding these limitations will enhance the overall quality of evidence of exercise therapy trials for LBP.
Who can see the iceberg's peak? How icebergs are used by information and liquidity traders
Authors: Lajbcygier Paul , Vu Van Hoang
Published: June 2024

Iceberg orders are partially disclosed limit orders that only reveal a small portion of their hidden volume at any time. Once traded, the iceberg order automatically replenishes until all its hidden volume executes. Consistent with theory, icebergs appeal to both information and liquidity traders. Information traders place orders at aggressive prices in the limit order book, which transact immediately as marketable orders. Liquidity traders use non‐aggressive orders, which sit on the book as limit orders. Iceberg traders adjust the aggressiveness of their orders as market conditions change. We find the market discovers iceberg orders through repeated replenishments.
The use of ketogenic diets in children living with drug‐resistant epilepsy, glucose transporter 1 deficiency syndrome and pyruvate dehydrogenase deficiency: A scoping review
Authors: Cameron Tracy , Allan Karen , Kay Cooper
Published: June 2024

Background

The ketogenic diet (KD) is a high fat, moderate protein and very low carbohydrate diet. It can be used as a medical treatment for drug‐resistant epilepsy (DRE), glucose transporter 1 deficiency syndrome and pyruvate dehydrogenase deficiency. The aim of this scoping review was to map the KD literature, with a focus on epilepsy and associated metabolic conditions, to summarise the current evidence‐base and identify any gaps.

Methods

This review was conducted using JBI scoping review methodological guidance and the PRISMA extension for scoping reviews reporting guidance. A comprehensive literature search was conducted in September 2021 and updated in February 2024 using MEDLINE, CINAHL, AMED, EmBASE, CAB Abstracts, Scopus and Food Science Source databases.

Results

The initial search yielded 2721 studies and ultimately, data were extracted from 320 studies that fulfilled inclusion criteria for the review. There were five qualitative studies, and the remainder were quantitative, including 23 randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and seven quasi‐experimental studies. The USA published the highest number of KD studies followed by China, South Korea and the UK. Most studies focused on the classical KD and DRE. The studies key findings suggest that the KD is efficacious, safe and tolerable.

Conclusions

There are opportunities available to expand the scope of future KD research, particularly to conduct high‐quality RCTs and further qualitative research focused on the child's needs and family support to improve the effectiveness of KDs.
Association of hypertriglyceridemic waist phenotype with metabolic syndrome traits and its diagnostic potential to predict metabolic syndrome in adults with excess body weight: A community‐based cross‐sectional study
Authors: Wasana Keddagoda Gamage Piyumi , Silva Nayomi Deshani De , Attanayake Anoja Priyadarshani , Weerarathna Thilak Priyantha
Published: June 2024

Background

The hypertriglyceridemic waist (HTGW) phenotype is a simple measure to identify individuals at increased risk of metabolic syndrome (MetS) traits. The present study aimed to describe the HTGW prevalence, and its associations with MetS traits, and also determine the diagnostic potential of the mirror indices of HTGW phenotype to predict MetS and its components in community‐dwelling adults with overweight or obesity in Southern, Sri Lanka.

Methods

In a cross‐sectional study, 300 adults with excess body weight (body mass index >23 kg/m2) were enrolled and examined for the HTGW phenotype (fasting plasma triglyceride concentration ≥1.695 mmol/L and waist circumference >90 and >85 cm in males and females, respectively).

Results

One in five adults with excess body weight had the HTGW phenotype. Phenotype‐positive adults had significantly higher fasting plasma glucose (FPG) (p = 0.010), low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL‐C) (p < 0.001), total cholesterol (p < 0.001), atherogenic index (p < 0.001), coronary risk index (p = 0.001), triglyceride glucose index (p = 0.040), bioimpedance visceral fat (p = 0.041) and significantly lower HDL‐C (p = 0.001) and cardioprotective index (p = 0.009) than those without the HTGW phenotype. Adults with excess body weight and the HTGW phenotype had an increased risk of FPG (odds ratio [OR] = 1.294; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.051–1.594), atherogenic index (OR = 3.138; 95% CI = 1.559–6.317) and triglyceride glucose index (OR = 3.027; 95% CI = 1.111–8.249). The HTGW phenotype was strongly associated with MetS traits (OR = 16.584; 95% CI = 6.230–44.147). The cut‐off values for the product of waist circumference × triglyceride, to identify the risk of having MetS and dyslipidemia among adults with excess body weight were 158.66 and 160.15 cm × mmol/L, respectively.

Conclusions

The readily available and inexpensive measures of the HTGW phenotype could serve as a clinically useful marker to identify MetS traits in adults with excess body weight.
Evaluation of the effects of carboxytherapy in the treatment of periorbital dark circles
Authors: Tabaie Seyed Mehdi , Shirkavand Afshan , Mansouri Parvin , Mehrizi Ali Asghar Haeri , Farshi Susan
Published: June 2024

Background

Dark eye circle (DEC) is one of the most common cosmetic problems. It has a great impact on the patients' quality of life. Carboxytherapy is a cosmetic technique using pure carbon dioxide for different uses in different areas of the body. The goal of this study is to evaluate the efficacy and tolerability of carboxytherapy in the cosmetic correction of DECs.

Methods

This study was conducted on 27 patients requesting the correction of DEC. The treatment was performed using a carboxy device in medical grade. The gas injection was performed intradermal after local anesthesia, with a pressure of one tenth bar and a speed of 20 cc/min, 1 cc in each upper and lower eyelid. The treatment sessions were done every 2 weeks for four sessions.

Results

The mean physicians' score of DECs before and after treatment was 8.7 ± 0.81 and 4.6 ± 1.1, respectively. The mean patients' score before and after treatment was 9.2 ± 0.5 versus 5.41 ± 1.37. The mean scores showed a significant reduction of skin discoloration without major side effects (p < 0.00001).

Conclusion

Carboxytherapy seems to be an effective treatment option for dark circles around the eyes with a good safety profile and patient satisfaction.
Feasibility study of ResNet‐50 in the distinction of intraoral neural tumors using histopathological images
Authors: dos Santos Giovanna Calabrese , Araújo Anna Luíza Damaceno , de Amorim Henrique Alves , Giraldo‐Roldán Daniela , de Sousa‐Neto Sebastião Silvério , Vargas Pablo Agustin , Kowalski Luiz Paulo , Santos‐Silva Alan Roger , Lopes Marcio Ajudarte , Moraes Matheus Cardoso
Published: June 2024

Background

Neural tumors are difficult to distinguish based solely on cellularity and often require immunohistochemical staining to aid in identifying the cell lineage. This article investigates the potential of a Convolutional Neural Network for the histopathological classification of the three most prevalent benign neural tumor types: neurofibroma, perineurioma, and schwannoma.

Methods

A model was developed, trained, and evaluated for classification using the ResNet‐50 architecture, with a database of 30 whole‐slide images stained in hematoxylin and eosin (106, 782 patches were generated from and divided among the training, validation, and testing subsets, with strategies to avoid data leakage).

Results

The model achieved an accuracy of 70% (64% normalized), and showed satisfactory results for differentiating two of the three classes, reaching approximately 97% and 77% as true positives for neurofibroma and schwannoma classes, respectively, and only 7% for perineurioma class. The AUROC curves for neurofibroma and schwannoma classes was 0.83%, and 0.74% for perineurioma. However, the specificity rate for the perineurioma class was greater (83%) than in the other two classes (neurofibroma with 61%, and schwannoma with 60%).

Conclusion

This investigation demonstrated significant potential for proficient performance with a limitation regarding the perineurioma class (the limited feature variability observed contributed to a lower performance).
Towards hepatitis C virus elimination in Iran: A blueprint for comprehensive strategies
Authors: Mousavi SeyedehFatemeh , Alavi Maryam , Delavari Alireza , Poustchi Hossein , Mohammadi Zahra , Malekzadeh Reza
Published: June 2024

The hepatitis C virus (HCV) continues to pose a significant public health challenge in Iran, mirroring a worldwide concern. This situation calls for a cohesive strategy that aligns with the World Health Organization's (WHO) goals for HCV elimination by 2030. Central to this strategy is targeting high‐risk groups, notably people who inject drugs and prisoners, with prevention, screening and treatment. The deployment of point‐of‐care testing and treatments in prisons and harm reduction facilities is vital. The adoption of cost‐effective generic direct‐acting antivirals represents a major step forward. Furthermore, innovative educational initiatives for healthcare providers and awareness campaigns for the public are critical. Additionally, tackling stigma, ensuring treatment affordability and upholding strict surveillance and data management, coupled with ongoing policy reviews, are vital components. This comprehensive and integrated approach is designed to drive Iran towards eliminating HCV and can serve as a blueprint for other countries with similar challenges.
A dose titration protocol for once‐daily insulin glargine 300 U/mL for the treatment of diabetes mellitus in dogs
Authors: Tardo Antonio Maria , Fleeman Linda Mary , Fracassi Federico , Berg Alisa Saule , Guarino Aria L. , Gilor Chen
Published: June 2024

Background

In purpose‐bred dogs, insulin glargine 300 U/mL (IGla300) has long duration of action, peakless time‐action profile, and low potency, making it suitable for use as a basal insulin.

Hypothesis

To evaluate IGla300 in client‐owned diabetic dogs monitored using a flash glucose monitoring system (FGMS).

Animals

Ninety‐five client‐owned diabetic dogs, newly diagnosed or previously treated with other insulin formulations, with or without concurrent diseases.

Methods

Prospective multi‐institutional study. Clinical signs and standardized assessment of FGMS data, using treatment and monitoring guidelines established a priori, guided dose adjustments and categorization into levels of glycemic control.

Results

The initial IGla300 dose was 0.5 U/Kg q24h for newly diagnosed dogs and (median dose [range]) 0.8 U/Kg (0.2‐2.5) q24h for all dogs. Glycemic control was classified as good or excellent in 87/95 (92%) dogs. The IGla300 was administered q24h (1.9 U/kg [0.2‐5.2]) and q12h (1.9 U/kg/day [0.6‐5.0]) in 56/95 (59%) and 39/95 (41%) dogs, respectively. Meal‐time bolus injections were added in 5 dogs (0.5 U/kg/injection [0.3‐1.0]). Clinical hypoglycemia occurred in 6/95 (6%) dogs. Dogs without concurrent diseases were more likely to receive IGla300 q24h than dogs with concurrent diseases (72% vs 50%, respectively; P = .04).

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Insulin glargine 300 U/mL can be considered a suitable therapeutic option for once‐daily administration in diabetic dogs. Clinicians should be aware of the low potency and wide dose range of IGla300. In some dogs, twice‐daily administration with or without meal‐time bolus injections may be necessary to achieve glycemic control. Monitoring with FGMS is essential for dose titration of IGla300.
Hear ye! Hear ye! A proclamation of deadlines and deeds done well
Authors: Eva Kevin W.
Published: June 2024

The Editor‐in‐chief shares the tremendous news of this year's award winners (and a final warning about the looming Medical Education Unleashed deadline).
Plant acclimation to ionising radiation requires activation of a detoxification pathway against carbonyl‐containing lipid oxidation products
Authors: Ksas Brigitte , Chiarenza Serge , Dubourg Nicolas , Ménard Véronique , Gilbin Rodophe , Havaux Michel
Published: June 2024

Ionising γ radiation produces reactive oxygen species by water radiolysis, providing an interesting model approach for studying oxidative stress in plants. Three‐week old plants of Arabidopsis thaliana were exposed to a low dose rate (25 mGy h−1) of γ radiation for up to 21 days. This treatment had no effect on plant growth and morphology, but it induced chronic oxidation of lipids which was associated with an accumulation of reactive carbonyl species (RCS). However, contrary to lipid peroxidation, lipid RCS accumulation was transient only, being maximal after 1 day of irradiation and decreasing back to the initial level during the subsequent days of continuous irradiation. This indicates the induction of a carbonyl‐metabolising process during chronic ionising radiation. Accordingly, the γ‐radiation treatment induced the expression of xenobiotic detoxification‐related genes (AER, SDR1, SDR3, ALDH4, and ANAC102). The transcriptomic response of some of those genes (AER, SDR1, and ANAC102) was deregulated in the tga256 mutant affected in three TGAII transcription factors, leading to enhanced and/or prolonged accumulation of RCS and to a marked inhibition of plant growth during irradiation compared to the wild type. These results show that Arabidopsis is able to acclimate to chronic oxidative stress and that this phenomenon requires activation of a carbonyl detoxification mechanism controlled by TGAII. This acclimation did not occur when plants were exposed to an acute γ radiation stress (100 Gy) which led to persistent accumulation of RCS and marked inhibition of plant growth. This study shows the role of secondary products of lipid peroxidation in the detrimental effects of reactive oxygen species.
Overexpressing CYP81D11 enhances 2,4,6‐trinitrotoluene tolerance and removal efficiency in Arabidopsis
Authors: Wang Han , Su Kunlong , Liu Meifeng , Liu Yuchen , Wu Zhenying , Fu Chunxiang
Published: June 2024

Phytoremediation is a promising technology for removing the high‐toxic explosive 2,4,6‐trinitrotoluene (TNT) pollutant from the environment. Mining dominant genes is the key research direction of this technology. Most previous studies have focused on the detoxification of TNT rather than plants' TNT tolerance. Here, we conducted a transcriptomic analysis of wild type Arabidopsis plants under TNT stress and found that the Arabidopsis cytochrome P450 gene CYP81D11 was significantly induced in TNT‐treated plants. Under TNT stress, the root length was approximately 1.4 times longer in CYP81D11‐overexpressing transgenic plants than in wild type plants. The half‐removal time for TNT was much shorter in CYP81D11‐overexpressing transgenic plants (1.1 days) than in wild type plants (t1/2 = 2.2 day). In addition, metabolic analysis showed no difference in metabolites in transgenic plants compared to wild type plants. These results suggest that the high TNT uptake rates of CYP81D11‐overexpressing transgenic plants were most likely due to increased tolerance and biomass rather than TNT degradation. However, CYP81D11‐overexpressing plants were not more tolerant to osmotic stresses, such as salt or drought. Taken together, our results indicate that CYP81D11 is a promising target for producing bioengineered plants with high TNT removing capability.
MiR827 positively regulates the resistance to chilli veinal mottle virus by affecting the expression of FBPase in Nicotiana benthamiana
Authors: Tang Rongxia , Yang Yufan , Ji Chenglong , Su Yanshan , Jiao Bolei , Yuan Bowen , Yang Xiaoya , Xi Dehui
Published: June 2024

MicroRNA(miRNA) is a class of non‐coding small RNA that plays an important role in plant growth, development, and response to environmental stresses. Unlike most miRNAs, which usually target homologous genes across a variety of species, miR827 targets different types of genes in different species. Research on miR827 mainly focuses on its role in regulating phosphate (Pi) homeostasis of plants, however, little is known about its function in plant response to virus infection. In the present study, miR827 was significantly upregulated in the recovery tissue of virus‐infected Nicotiana tabacum. Overexpression of miR827 could improve plants resistance to the infection of chilli veinal mottle virus (ChiVMV) in Nicotiana benthamiana, whereas interference of miR827 increased the susceptibility of the virus‐infected plants. Further experiments indicated that the antiviral defence regulated by miR827 was associated with the reactive oxygen species and salicylic acid signalling pathways. Then, fructose‐1,6‐bisphosphatase (FBPase) was identified to be a target of miR827, and virus infection could affect the expression of FBPase. Finally, transient expression of FBPase increased the susceptibility to ChiVMV‐GFP infection in N. benthamiana. By contrast, silencing of FBPase increased plant resistance. Taken together, our results demonstrate that miR827 plays a positive role in tobacco response to virus infection, thus providing new insights into understanding the role of miR827 in plant‐virus interaction.
A non‐invasive method for phenotyping scab‐tolerant apple plants using volatile organic compounds
Authors: Demiwal Pratibha , Mir Javid Iqbal , Sircar Debabrata
Published: June 2024

One of the most devastating diseases of apples is scab, caused by the fungus Venturia inaequalis. Most commercial apple varieties are susceptible to this disease; only a few are resistant. Breeding approaches are being used to develop better apple varieties that are resistant to scab. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) contribute greatly to a plant's phenotype, and their emission profile largely depends on the genotype. In the non‐destructive phenotyping of plants, VOCs can be used as biomarkers. In this study, we assessed non‐destructively the scab tolerance potential of resistant (cv. ‘Prima’) and susceptible (cv. ‘Oregon Spur’) apple cultivars by comparing their major leaf VOC compositions and relative proportions. A comparison of the leaf VOC profiles of the two cultivars revealed 16 different VOCs, with cis‐3‐hexenyl acetate (3HA) emerging as a biomarker of cultivar differences. V. inaequalis growth was significantly inhibited in vitro by 3HA treatment. 3HA was significantly effective in reducing scab symptoms on V. inaequalis‐inoculated leaves of ‘Oregon Spur.’ The resistant cultivar ‘Prima’ also exhibited higher lipoxygenase (LOX) activity and α‐linolenic acid (ALA) levels, suggesting that V. inaequalis resistance is linked to LOX activity and 3HA biosynthesis. This study proposes 3HA as a potential biomarker for rapid non‐destructive screening of scab‐resistant apple germplasm of ‘Prima’ based on leaf VOCs.
When does social media promote firm innovation? The moderating role of strategic flexibility
Authors: Chen Jiawen , Liu Linlin
Published: June 2024

Despite a considerable body of innovation research focusing on social media, the influence of this factor on firm innovation remains uncertain. To address this research gap, we investigate how social media applications impact the exploitative and exploratory innovation of firms as well as the moderating effect of strategic flexibility in this context. We find that social media application exhibits a positive relationship with exploitative innovation and an inverted U‐shaped relationship with exploratory innovation. We also find that resource and coordination flexibility have moderating effects on the relationships between social media application and both exploitative and explorative innovation. Our study contributes to the literature by explicating the effects of social media on firm innovation and makes important and practical contributions to our understanding of how social media can be effectively used to promote innovation.
Winning the Tour de France with endobronchial valve therapy without pulmonary rehabilitation
Authors: Strange Charlie , Talley Melinda
Published: June 2024

See related article
Dynamic association between suicidal ambivalence and suicide risk among individuals with a history of suicide attempts
Authors: Fartacek Clemens , Fartacek Reinhold , Schiepek Günter K. , Sturm Josef , Aichhorn Wolfgang , Plöderl Martin
Published: June 2024

Objective

Suicide risk is highly fluctuating. There is a need for predictors of short‐term change in suicide risk to optimize risk assessment and treatment, especially among individuals who already attempted suicide.

Methods

Based on 1776 daily assessments of 16 former psychiatric inpatients with a history of suicide attempts, we examined how suicidal ambivalence and, respectively, wish to die (WTD) and wish to live (WTL) predicted same‐day and change in perceived suicide risk (i.e., next‐day perceived suicide risk, controlled for same‐day perceived suicide risk) in multilevel regression models. Additionally, based on the assumptions of nonlinear dynamics, we examined the associations between levels of fluctuations in the WTD/WTL and perceived suicide risk within the same time period.

Results

Suicidal ambivalence, WTD, and a WTL significantly correlated with same‐day suicide risk. Suicidal ambivalence and WTD significantly predicted change in suicide risk. Fluctuations in WTD were significantly associated with concurrent suicide risk.

Conclusion

The results suggest that suicidal ambivalence and WTD are drivers of suicide risk among individuals who already attempted suicide. The association between fluctuations in WTD and suicide risk was small and warrants further investigation on the practical utility as a warning sign.
A new MM algorithm for root‐finding problems
Authors: Li Xun‐Jian , Li Shuang , Tian Guo‐Liang
Published: June 2024

The minorization–maximization (MM) algorithm is an optimization technique for iteratively calculating the maximizer of a concave target function rather than a root–finding tool. In this paper, we in the first time develop the MM algorithm as a new method for seeking the root of a univariate nonlinear equation . The key idea is to transfer the root–finding issue to iteratively calculate the maximizer of a concave target function by designing a new MM algorithm. According to the ascent property of the MM algorithm, we know that the proposed algorithm converges to the root and does not depend on any initial values, in contrast to Newton's method. Several statistical examples are provided to demonstrate the proposed algorithm.
Gratitude and depressive symptoms in Chinese nurses: From a self‐determination theory perspective
Authors: Hao Yuanyuan , Bai Chengzhi , Wang Tianyi , Zhang Caiyan , Ye Ying , Zhao Jingjing , Kong Feng
Published: June 2024

Background

A common psychological problem among nurses is depression, potentially affecting their well‐being and job performance. It is vital to explore how to alleviate nurses' depressive symptoms.

Aim

The current research explored the mediating impact of basic psychological needs satisfaction on the link of gratitude with depressive symptoms.

Methods

The nurses in this study were from mainland China. A total of 724 subjects completed an online questionnaire, which included measures of depressive symptoms, basic psychological needs satisfaction and gratitude.

Results

Our research found that gratitude was negatively linked to depressive symptoms. Furthermore, basic psychological needs satisfaction had a partial mediation effect on the link of gratitude with depressive symptoms after controlling for five demographic variables. These results suggest that gratitude may influence depressive symptoms via basic psychological needs satisfaction.

Linking Evidence to Action

Our study found that basic psychological need satisfaction partially mediates the gratitude‐depression relationship in nurses. The result means that hospital administrators and nurse leaders should design gratitude interventions to alleviate nurses' depressive symptoms. They also help nurses decrease depressive symptoms by creating an environment that meets their basic psychological needs.
Crunching Numbers, Sustainably
Authors: Wolverton Mark
Published: June 2024

Energy use in computing a growing challenge. The ever-expanding use of artificial intelligence and other high performing computing applications only adds to the problem, demanding more energy and generating more carbon emissions. Computer scientists and microelectronics engineers are striving to reduce the digital world’s carbon footprint in an approach called green computing.
Choose Your Own Career Adventure
Authors: Flanigan Robin L. , Guerra Jerry
Published: June 2024

The demand for engineers means these early career professionals can afford to evaluate career moves beyond simply securing a paid position. They can consider their options with regards to remote work, office culture, advanced degrees, and more.
Frugal Engineering
Authors: Malshe Ajay P. , Bapat Salil , Fischer Lukas
Published: June 2024

In recent decades, engineers have been studying examples from biology to inform industrial product designs. Biology has had millions of years to find elegant solutions under severe resource constraints, so it is prudent to examine natural systems to look for concepts to adapt for human purposes for resiliency. The common thread for both bio-inspired design and social enterprises is frugality—maximizing the use of available capital resources while delivering effective outcomes. For engineers at work in the 21st century, an emphasis on frugal engineering could provide multiple advantages.
Precise Enough For Outer Space
Authors:   Mechanical Engineering Magazine staff
Published: June 2024

For manufacturers, the ability to produce parts from designs reliably is critical. Because simple blueprints don’t convey enough information, Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing, or GD&T, has become a standard symbolic language for communicating properties such as form, location, orientation, size, and function. The ASME Video Production Team recently visited GT Machine and Tool Co. in Long Island City, N.Y., to talk with company president Dean Theodos about how GD&T enabled its machine shop to produce all kinds of parts.
Influence of Propeller–Ice Loads on the Wear Development in Stern Tube Bearings of Marine Propulsion Systems and Identification of Critical Operating Conditions
Authors: Gilges Markus , Saleh Ahmed , Bekker Anriëtte , Jain Mohit , Lehmann Benjamin , Jacobs Georg
Published: June 2024

Increasing ship traffic in ice-covered waters leads to more frequent collisions between ship propellers and sea ice which causes extreme impulse loads on the propeller. These loads are transferred through the propeller shaft to the sliding bearings of the stern tube, especially, the aft stern tube bearings. Extreme bearing loads can lead to mixed friction regimes that cause wear in the bearings and eventually result in a failure of the entire propulsion system. The effect of ice-induced loads on the contact conditions in the sliding bearings is widely unknown. Thus, a study of the influence of these loads on the contact conditions and wear behavior in stern tube bearings resulting from observed sea ice conditions and operating conditions of the ship is necessary. This article aims to investigate the influence of ice collision loads on the contact conditions in the bearings of the stern tube of the research vessel SA Agulhas II. For this purpose, an elastohydrodynamic simulation and a multibody simulation based on field measurements were performed. As a result, this article identifies the operating condition thresholds (i.e., propeller torque and rotational speed) during propeller–ice collisions that cause mixed friction conditions in the bearings. On the basis of these conditions, a risk map is generated to assess the actual wear risk by including the frequency of occurrence of the corresponding mixed friction condition over the duration of a voyage.
Continuous-Time Algebraic Riccati Equation Solution for Second-Order Systems
Authors: Srinivas Neeraj , Sultan Cornel
Published: June 2024

The continuous-time algebraic Riccati equation (ARE) is often utilized in control, estimation, and optimization. For a linear system with a second-order structure of size n, the ARE required to be solved to get the control values in standard control problems results in complex subequations in terms of the second-order system matrices. The computational costs of solving the algebraic Riccati equation through standard methods such as the Hamiltonian matrix pencil approach increase substantially as matrix sizes increase for a second-order system, due to the eigendecomposition of the 2n×2n system matrices involved. This work introduces a new solution that does not require the eigendecomposition of the 2n×2n system matrices, while satisfying all of the requirements of the solution to the Riccati equation (e.g., detectability, stabilizability, and positive semidefinite solution matrix).
Co-Packaged Optics—Heterogeneous Integration of Photonic Integrated Circuits and Electronic Integrated Circuits
Authors: Lau John H.
Published: June 2024

The trends in co-packaged optics (CPO) will be investigated in this study. Emphasis is placed on the heterogeneous integration of photonic integrated circuit (PIC) and electronic IC (EIC). In particular, two-dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) heterogeneous integration of application specific IC (ASIC) switch, PIC, and EIC w/o bridges, and heterogeneous integration of ASIC switch, PIC, and EIC on glass substrate will be discussed. Some recommendations will be provided.
A Transformative Approach for Breast Cancer Detection Using Physics-Informed Neural Network and Surface Temperature Data
Authors: Perez-Raya Isaac , Gutierrez Carlos , Kandlikar Satish
Published: June 2024

Early detection is the most effective defense against breast cancer. Mammography is a well-established X-ray-based technique that is used for annual or biennial screening of women above age of 40. Since the dense breast tissue sometimes obscures the cancer in an X-ray image, about 10% of screened women are recalled and undergo additional adjunctive modalities, such as ultrasound, digital breast tomosynthesis, or magnetic resonance imaging. These modalities have drawbacks such as additional radiation dosage, overdiagnosis, and high cost. A new concurrent multispectral imaging approach was recently presented to eliminate the high recall rates by utilizing the breast surface temperature data with an inverse physics-informed neural network algorithm. This method utilizes the bioheat transfer modeling as the governing physics equations and conducted inverse heat transfer modeling using infrared temperatures to predict the presence of a tumor heat source. Validation of the predicted tumor size and location was conducted on a biopsy-proven breast cancer patient using infrared temperature data captured of the breast surface and pathology reports. A regression analysis between the predicted temperatures and infrared temperatures showed a coefficient of determination of 0.98. The absolute error in the predicted tumor size was 0.4 cm and the maximum absolute error in tumor location was 0.3 cm. The proposed approach shows promising results and performance. However, additional testing with more patients is required to quantify the standard deviation in the prediction and establish the sensitivity and specificity of the machine learning technique.