bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluating the Melbourne Strategic Assessment—Elegant on process, currently failing on implementation
Authors: Lowe Kim W , Wescott Geoffrey
Published: April 2023

This paper provides a critical analysis of the development and current outcomes of Australia's first endorsed strategic assessment under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999, namely, the Melbourne Strategic Assessment. It covers progress towards protection of a number of Nationally Significant Species and Ecological Communities – most notably, the native grassland communities immediately adjacent to Melbourne's Urban Growth Boundary. The Commonwealth approval to protect biodiversity and allow urban development was made in 2010 and it aimed to achieve its outcomes by 2020. These outcomes included providing new land for homes, for new transport corridors, and for conservation of biodiversity. Natural Temperate Grassland (4,667 ha), Grassy Eucalypt Woodland (709 ha) and seven other Matters of National Environmental Significance will be impacted. Mitigation for this is establishment of 15,000 ha of grassland reserves, 1,200 ha of grassy woodland reserves, over 4,000 ha of other land zoned for conservation and 300 ha of wetland restoration. We conclude that the Melbourne Strategic Assessment has been a success in terms of the elegance and comprehensiveness of the approach, in cooperation between the levels of government, in the economic benefits, and in some aspects of social engagement of the agreement. However, the achievement of environmental outcomes must be currently considered a failure due to poor implementation. This failure includes not meeting the agreed 10 year deadline for land acquisition and management, poor monitoring and protection of set‐aside areas, and in reporting. We offer suggestions for how these current shortcomings could be overcome. These align well with the recommendations of the review of the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (The independent statutory review of the Act in 2020) and include the establishment of the proposed Office of Compliance and Enforcement, the adoption of National Environmental Standards and the reforms regarding the role of Indigenous Australians in strategic assessments. If these were adopted, we conclude that the strategic assessment approach should be more widely used because of the more holistic approach and efficiencies that it envisages compared with site by site approaches.
Exploring dental treatment decision‐making experiences of people living with dementia and family carers
Authors: Geddis‐Regan Andrew , Wassall Rebecca R. , Abley Clare , Exley Catherine
Published: April 2023

Introduction

People living with dementia can have complex dental care needs. Dentists and patients should make treatment decisions together, yet some people living with dementia may be unable to make their own decisions about their dental care. Dental treatment decision‐making and patients' experiences of this process have not been comprehensively researched.

Objective

This study aimed to explore the dental treatment decision‐making perspectives and experiences of people living with dementia and their family members.

Methods

Semi‐structured interviews were undertaken with 8 people living with dementia and 17 family caregivers. A constructivist grounded theory approach was adopted, using a maximum variation sample. Qualitative data collection and analysis occurred concurrently. Data underwent initial open coding followed by more focused coding, supported by reflexive memo writing, which supported data categorisation.

Results

People living with dementia reported wanting to be understood as unique individuals with specific needs. All participants described wanting to be actively involved in dental treatment decisions. However, many felt that they were insufficiently involved in treatment decision‐making. This perceived underinvolvement meant that some people living with dementia and family members felt the treatment outcomes they sought were neither discussed nor considered.

Conclusion

People living with dementia and carers had specific expectations of dental care yet felt passive in decision‐making despite their desire to be involved in this process. Dentists should seek to actively establish patients' preferences, regardless of mental capacity and consider these in discussions and decisions about dental treatment.
Fremanezumab plus plasmapheresis in a patient with chronic migraine and myasthenia gravis: Case report of an effective treatment
Authors: Carmillo Laura , Fasano Antonio
Published: April 2023

A patient with chronic migraine and generalized myasthenia gravis was concurrently treated with fremanezumab and with therapeutic plasmapheresis (PEX). Fremanezumab was dosed right after a PEX session, or in the midpoint between sessions, and the efficacy of both treatments was maintained. This case broadens the drug's clinical applications and it helps in choosing the appropriate medical regimen in patients requiring both treatments.
Emotions and consumer behaviour: A review and research agenda
Authors: Sharma Kirti , Trott Sangeeta , Sahadev Sunil , Singh Ramendra
Published: April 2023

Consumers' emotions play a salient role in consumers' buying process, their consumption behaviours, and their engagement with product/service offerings, owing to which, it has gained much attention in recent years as an area of inquiry. However, literature in this field/subject is theoretically fragmented. Therefore, to enhance the conceptual understanding, this study synthesizes extant literature, using a hybrid review approach. Herein, we attempt to integrate bibliometric analysis, along with the theories, contexts, characteristics, and methodology framework, while consolidating and classifying the domain knowledge, trends, and progress/citation analysis using the bibliometric approach. In the process, we reviewed 384 conceptual and empirical articles, published during the period 1967–2021. The idea was to identify key theories, constructs, research contexts, and methods, based on which, we propose a few potential research areas. Based on our thorough analysis, these areas include (1) consumer co‐creation, (2) consumer engagement, (3) service employee interactions, (4) consumer decision making, and (5) consumption experience.
Modulation of immunity by the secreted phospholipase A2 family
Authors: Murakami Makoto , Sato Hiroyasu , Taketomi Yoshitaka
Published: April 2023

Among the phospholipase A2 (PLA2) superfamily, which typically catalyzes the sn‐2 hydrolysis of phospholipids to yield fatty acids and lysophospholipids, the secreted PLA2 (sPLA2) family contains 11 isoforms in mammals. Individual sPLA2s have unique enzymatic specificity toward fatty acids and polar heads of phospholipid substrates and display distinct tissue/cellular distributions, suggesting their distinct physiological functions. Recent studies using knockout and/or transgenic mice for a full set of sPLA2s have revealed their roles in modulation of immunity and related disorders. Application of mass spectrometric lipidomics to these mice has enabled to identify target substrates and products of individual sPLA2s in given tissue microenvironments. sPLA2s hydrolyze not only phospholipids in the plasma membrane of activated, damaged or dying mammalian cells, but also extracellular phospholipids such as those in extracellular vesicles, microbe membranes, lipoproteins, surfactants, and dietary phospholipids, thereby exacerbating or ameliorating various diseases. The actions of sPLA2s are dependent on, or independent of, the generation of fatty acid‐ or lysophospholipid‐derived lipid mediators according to the pathophysiological contexts. In this review, we make an overview of our current understanding of the roles of individual sPLA2s in various immune responses and associated diseases.
Mental Health Nurses' attitudes towards mental illness and recovery‐oriented practice in acute inpatient psychiatric units: A non‐participant observation study
Authors: Sreeram Anju , Cross Wendy M. , Townsin Louise
Published: April 2023

National mental health policies accentuate the importance of having positive attitudes, skills, and knowledge among mental health professionals to facilitate recovery‐oriented practices in all areas of mental health care. However, evidence suggests that mental health professionals' negative attitudes towards mental illness are still evident and that recovery‐oriented practice in acute inpatient units may be poorly implemented. At the same time, there is also a paucity of research to understand Mental Health Nurses' attitudes towards mental illness and recovery‐oriented practice specifically. Therefore, this non‐participant observation study aimed to explore Mental Health Nurses' attitudes towards mental illness and recovery‐oriented practice in acute inpatient units by observing the interactions between the consumers and nurses. The Mental Illness Clinicians Attitudes Scale‐v4 and The Recovery Attitudes Questionnaire inspired the development of a non‐participant observation chart for this study and the observations were recorded on the chart. Six observations were conducted in three acute inpatient units. Observations focused on Mental Health Nurses' knowledge about mental illness, communication, dignity, respect, anxiety, fear, punishment, facilitation of real choices for consumers, physical care, cooperation with consumers' families and others and recovery orientation. Interpretive descriptive analysis was used to analyse the data. The results show that Mental Health Nurses generally have positive attitudes towards mental illness and recovery‐oriented practice. Some deficits in the physical care of people with mental illness in the acute inpatient units were observed. Therefore, future research could address the adequate preparation of Mental Health Nurses to provide physical care to people with mental illnesses.
Value of blockchain‐enabled supply chain traceability under competition
Authors: Zhou Yu , Gao Xiang , Nie Jiajia
Published: April 2023

In a modern supply chain, the quality of the final product is not determined by a single firm but depends on the joint efforts of multiple firms. When a quality defect happens, it is usually cost‐inefficient to trace the source of quality problems and all firms in the supply chain might incur a loss. New technologies such as blockchain can enable supply chain traceability at an affordable cost. In this paper, we develop a two‐echelon supply chain model including one supplier and one buyer in a competitive market. The quality of the final product depends on the two firms’ quality efforts. The buyer as a leader can set a wholesale price to stimulate the supplier's effort. In the absence (presence) of traceability, the payment of wholesale price is based on the realization of the final product's quality (the supplier's individual quality). Interestingly, we find that supply chain traceability may cause a decrease of the supplier's quality effort, thereby reducing the quality of the final product when market competition is sufficiently intensive. Furthermore, traceability weakly increases the supplier's profit but weakly decreases the buyer's profit. However, the total profit of the supply chain can be increased in the presence of traceability.
Cell cycle arrest: A breakthrough in the supportive care of older cancer patients
Authors: Falandry Claire , List Alan , Balducci Lodovico
Published: April 2023

Background

Age is a major risk factor for the acute and chronic complications of cancer chemotherapy. The current approach to the prevention of these complications is reactive and involves the reduction of the doses and the delay of treatment which may compromise the outcome. There is a limited number of antidotes to chemotherapy toxicity and these have complications of their own. Oldest old and frail patients are mostly excluded from life saving cancer treatment due to the risk of severe and even lethal complications.

Methods

molecular biology has revealed that different checkpoints control the proliferative cycle of normal and neoplastic cells. Two new drugs, Trilaciclib and ALRN‐6924 may cause a temporary cell cycle arrest (CCA) of normal cells without blocking the proliferation of the neoplastic ones and render the normal cells temporarily invulnerable to the toxicity of chemotherapy. We reviewed the publications related to these drugs on the Medline, the published drug information and the presentations to major medical conferences.

Results

In three randomized controlled phase II trials Trilaciclib proved effective in preventing neutropenia, thrombocytopenia and anemia in patients with non small cell lung cancer with non proficient RB1 gene. Forty‐five percent of patients were 65 and older and age did not prevent the effectiveness of the drug. Trilaciclib was approved by the FDA for the management of these patients. ALRN‐6924 appeared promising in preventing myelotoxicity in patients whose cancer had deleted or mutated TP53, but failed to show any significant activity in a randomized controlled study. The development of this drug is now on hold

Conclusions

CCA is a novel proactive approach to the toxicity of chemotherapy of special interest to older patients. At the very least it may prevent all forms of myelotoxicity with a single agent, obviating the risk and cost of polypharmacy. It allows to avoid the complications of myelopoietic growth factors which include severe pain, stem cell competition, bone marrow exhaustion, and hematological malignancies. It may allow the treatment of frail patients with full chemotherapy doses. It is also reasonable to expect that may complications other common and sometimes lethal complications of chemotherapy such as stomatitis, esophagitis, diarrhea and dehydration.
What helps patients to prepare for and cope during awake craniotomy? A prospective qualitative study
Authors: Bala Aleksandra , Olejnik Agnieszka , Dziedzic Tomasz , Piwowarska Jolanta , Podgórska Anna , Marchel Andrzej
Published: April 2023

There is growing interest in awake craniotomies, but some clinicians are concerned that such procedures are poorly tolerated by patients. Therefore, we conducted a study to assess this phenomenon. In this prospective qualitative study, 68 patients who qualified for awake craniotomy were asked to complete the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS)—two days before the surgery and visual analogue scales (VAS) for pain and stress, two days before the surgery and again about two days after. In addition, after their surgery, they took part in a structured interview about what helped them prepare for and cope with the surgery. Most patients tolerated the awake surgery well, scoring low on stress and pain scales. They reported a lower level of stress during the surgery (when questioned afterwards) than before it. Intensity of stress before the surgery correlated negatively with age, positively with HADS anxiety score and positively with stress subsequently experienced during surgery. The level of stress during surgery was associated with stress experienced before the surgery, pain and HADS anxiety and depression scores. Severity of pain during the surgery was positively correlated with stress during surgery and HADS depression and anxiety scores before the surgery. There was no correlation between stress, pain, anxiety and depression and the location of the lesion. Patients have a high tolerance for awake craniotomy. Various factors have an impact on how well patients cope with the operation. Extensive preoperative preparation should be considered a key part of the procedure.
Use of artificial intelligence techniques for detection of mild cognitive impairment: A systematic scoping review
Authors: Quek Li JuanVivian , Heikkonen Maria Rosaliini , Lau Ying
Published: April 2023

Aims and Objectives

The objective of this scoping review is to explore the types and mechanisms of Artificial intelligence (AI) techniques for detecting mild cognitive impairment (MCI).

Background

Early detection of MCI is crucial because it may progress to Alzheimer's disease.

Design

A systematic scoping review.

Methods

Five‐step framework of Arksey and O'Malley was used following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses extension for scoping reviews checklist. A total of 11 databases (PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL, Cochrane Library, Scopus, Web of Science, IEEE Explore, Science.gov, ACM digital library, arXIV and ProQuest) was used to search from inception till 17th December 2021. Grey literature and reference list were searched. Articles screening and data charting were conducted by two independent reviewers.

Results

There were a total of 70 articles included from 2011 to 2022 across 16 countries. Four types of AI techniques were found, namely machine learning (ML), deep learning (DL), fuzzy logic (FL) and technique combinations. Herein, ML detects similar pattern within preselected data to classify subjects into non‐MCI or MCI groups. Meanwhile, DL performs classification based on data patterns and data analyses are performed by themselves. Furthermore, FL utilises human‐defined rules to decide the degree to which a person has MCI. A combination of AI techniques enhances the feature preparation phase for ML or DL to perform accurate classification.

Conclusion

Although AI‐based MCI detection tool is critical for healthcare decision‐making, clinical utility and risks remain underexplored. Hopefully, this review equips clinicians with background AI knowledge to address these clinical concerns. Hence, future research should explore more techniques and representative datasets to improve AI development.

Relevance to clinical practice

Results of this review can increase the knowledge of AI‐based MCI detection tools.

Review registration

This study protocol was registered in the Open Science Framework Registries (https://osf.io/45rdt).
Handgrip force and bite force in dentulous and edentulous individuals
Authors: Jabr Camila Luiz , Oliveira Lucas Portela , Campos Lucas Arrais , Campos Juliana Alvares Duarte Bonini , de Oliveira Lima Amanda Laísa , de Assis Mollo Júnior Francisco , Filho João Neudenir Arioli
Published: April 2023

Background

The literature is unclear about bite force (BF) and handgrip force (HF) in a specific group of different ages and dentate conditions, or even a predictive model for each specific group, using BF and HF as factors.

Objective

To establish the correlation between HF and BF in female participants with distinct ages and dentate conditions; also create a predictive model of BF as a function of HF.

Methods

Participants were divided into three groups (GI: young natural dentate women, n = 65; GII: adult natural dentate women, n = 67; and GIII: edentulous women users of bimaxillary complete dentures, n = 67) and subjected to an HF measurement test using a digital dynamometer. Subsequently, BF was measured using a digital gnathodynamometer in the molar region. Pearson correlation coefficient (r) and multivariate analysis of variance (α = 0.05) were performed, and simple linear regression was used to obtain a model to predict BF from HF for each group separately (α = 0.05).

Results

All groups presented moderate and strong correlations among the variables (GI: r = 0.838; GII: r = 0.714; GIII: r = 0.646). A significant difference in BF was observed (GI > GII > GIII; p < .05). GIII presented a significantly lower HF than the other groups (p < .05). Besides, three equations predicting BF, using HF, were obtained for use in young/adult dentate and edentulous women.

Conclusion

All groups found a positive and significant correlation between BF, HF and groups. HF can be a simple and efficient method for predicting BF using the predictive models developed for women with good health.
Plant defensin MtDef4‐derived antifungal peptide with multiple modes of action and potential as a bio‐inspired fungicide
Authors: Tetorya Meenakshi , Li Hui , Djami‐Tchatchou Arnaud Thierry , Buchko Garry W. , Czymmek Kirk J. , Shah Dilip M.
Published: April 2023

Chemical fungicides have been instrumental in protecting crops from fungal diseases. However, increasing fungal resistance to many of the single‐site chemical fungicides calls for the development of new antifungal agents with novel modes of action (MoA). The sequence‐divergent cysteine‐rich antifungal defensins with multisite MoA are promising starting templates for design of novel peptide‐based fungicides. Here, we experimentally tested such a set of 17‐amino‐acid peptides containing the γ‐core motif of the antifungal plant defensin MtDef4. These designed peptides exhibited antifungal properties different from those of MtDef4. Focused analysis of a lead peptide, GMA4CG_V6, showed that it was a random coil in solution with little or no secondary structure elements. Additionally, it exhibited potent cation‐tolerant antifungal activity against the plant fungal pathogen Botrytis cinerea, the causal agent of grey mould disease in fruits and vegetables. Its multisite MoA involved localization predominantly to the plasma membrane, permeabilization of the plasma membrane, rapid internalization into the vacuole and cytoplasm, and affinity for the bioactive phosphoinositides phosphatidylinositol 3‐phosphate (PI3P), PI4P, and PI5P. The sequence motif RRRW was identified as a major determinant of the antifungal activity of this peptide. While topical spray application of GMA4CG_V6 on Nicotiana benthamiana and tomato plants provided preventive and curative suppression of grey mould disease symptoms, the peptide was not internalized into plant cells. Our findings open the possibility that truncated and modified defensin‐derived peptides containing the γ‐core sequence could serve as promising candidates for further development of bio‐inspired fungicides.
Pectobacterium and Dickeya genus—A review on structural variations of O‐polysaccharides and their role in the pathogenic process of plants
Authors: Szulta Sylwia , Kornicka Anita
Published: April 2023

Pectobacterium and Dickeya are gram‐negative phytopathogens representing the Pectobacteriaceae family. Representatives of this genus cause damage to crops worldwide, posing a global threat to agricultural food production. The studies of chemical structures of the bacterial O‐polysaccharide repeating units and the role of these elements in the pathogenesis process are bringing about in‐depth understanding of the complex interactions of pathogenic microbes with plants, leading to potential reduction or elimination of phytopathogens. This review is devoted to structural variation characteristics of the O‐polysaccharides of strains of the Pectobacterium and Dickeya genera, which help with improving classification schemes of these strains. Attention is also paid to the antigenic correlations of these strains within the genus and their O‐polysaccharide‐related bioactivities as well as the possible role of this component in plant–microbe interactions.
Ecological restoration promotes zooplankton network complexity in Mediterranean coastal lagoons
Authors: Hernández‐Carrasco Daniel , Cunillera‐Montcusí David , Antón‐Pardo Maria , Cañedo‐Argüelles Miguel , Bas‐Silvestre Maria , Compte Jordi , Gascón Stéphanie , Quintana Xavier D. , Boix Dani
Published: April 2023

Ecological recovery following restoration is typically evaluated using metrics based on species diversity and composition. However, increasing evidence suggests the success of long‐term ecological recovery increases when more complex attributes such as biotic interaction networks are targeted. In created lagoons, the influence of nearby habitats can generate early similarities in the community structure, but communities often diverge from surrounding water bodies at later successional stages. These changes have been attributed to the effect of biotic interactions, but few studies have tested this assumption. Here, we analyze the zooplankton community recovery after the creation of new lagoons in a Mediterranean coastal wetland using beta diversity approaches and mixed graphical models to infer interaction networks from abundance data. Increasing differences in the community structure between new and old lagoons were detected the second year after their creation. The overall interaction network was more complex in new than in old lagoons. Interestingly, the network structure in old lagoons increased its complexity during the third and fourth years after restoration. The creation of new lagoons with overall milder environmental conditions contributed to a greater differentiation of the zooplankton community structure between new and old lagoons. Moreover, our results suggest that the creation of a heterogeneous and more connected landscape can increase the interaction network in newly created and pre‐existing habitats, even if environmental conditions remain unchanged. We show how the inclusion of interaction networks for the monitoring of ecosystem recovery reflects unique facets of community complexity, otherwise overlooked when targeting diversity metrics alone.
Non‐specific effects of the CINNAMATE‐4‐HYDROXYLASE inhibitor piperonylic acid
Authors: El Houari Ilias , Klíma Petr , Baekelandt Alexandra , Staswick Paul E. , Uzunova Veselina , Del Genio Charo I. , Steenackers Ward , Dobrev Petre I. , Filepová Roberta , Novák Ondrej , Napier Richard , Petrášek Jan , Inzé Dirk , Boerjan Wout , Vanholme Bartel
Published: April 2023

Chemical inhibitors are often implemented for the functional characterization of genes to overcome the limitations associated with genetic approaches. Although it is well established that the specificity of the compound is key to success of a pharmacological approach, off‐target effects are often overlooked or simply neglected in a complex biological setting. Here we illustrate the cause and implications of such secondary effects by focusing on piperonylic acid (PA), an inhibitor of CINNAMATE‐4‐HYDROXYLASE (C4H) that is frequently used to investigate the involvement of lignin during plant growth and development. When supplied to plants, we found that PA is recognized as a substrate by GRETCHEN HAGEN 3.6 (GH3.6), an amido synthetase involved in the formation of the indole‐3‐acetic acid (IAA) conjugate IAA‐Asp. By competing for the same enzyme, PA interferes with IAA conjugation, resulting in an increase in IAA concentrations in the plant. In line with the broad substrate specificity of the GH3 family of enzymes, treatment with PA increased not only IAA levels but also those of other GH3‐conjugated phytohormones, namely jasmonic acid and salicylic acid. Finally, we found that interference with the endogenous function of GH3s potentially contributes to phenotypes previously observed upon PA treatment. We conclude that deregulation of phytohormone homeostasis by surrogate occupation of the conjugation machinery in the plant is likely a general phenomenon when using chemical inhibitors. Our results hereby provide a novel and important basis for future reference in studies using chemical inhibitors.
The Arabidopsispre‐mRNA 3′ end processing related protein FIP1 promotes seed dormancy via the DOG1 and ABA pathways
Authors: Li Yu , Chen Fengying , Yang Yue , Han Yi , Ren Ziyun , Li Xiaoying , Soppe Wim J. J. , Cao Hong , Liu Yongxiu
Published: April 2023

Seed dormancy is an important adaptive trait to prevent germination occurring at an inappropriate time. The mechanisms governing seed dormancy and germination are complex. Here, we report that FACTOR INTERACTING WITH POLY(A) POLYMERASE 1 (FIP1), a component of the pre‐mRNA 3′ end processing machinery, is involved in seed dormancy and germination processes in Arabidopsis thaliana. FIP1 is mainly expressed in seeds and the knockout of FIP1 causes reduced seed dormancy, indicating that FIP1 positively influences seed dormancy. Meanwhile, fip1 mutants are insensitive to exogenous ABA during seed germination and early seedling establishment. The terms ‘seed maturation’ and ‘response to ABA stimulus’ are significantly enriched in a gene ontology analysis based on genes differentially expressed between fip1‐1 and the wild type. Several of these genes, including ABI5, DOG1 and PYL12, show significantly decreased transcript levels in fip1. Genetic analysis showed that either cyp707a2 or dog1‐5 partially, but in combination completely, represses the reduced seed dormancy of fip1, indicating that the double mutant cyp707a2 dog1‐5 is epistatic to fip1. Moreover, FIP1 is required for CFIM59, another component of pre‐mRNA 3′ end processing machinery, to govern seed dormancy and germination. Overall, we identified FIP1 as a regulator of seed dormancy and germination that plays a crucial role in governing these processes through the DOG1 and ABA pathways.
A desert Chlorella sp. that thrives at extreme high‐light intensities using a unique photoinhibition protection mechanism
Authors: Levin Guy , Yasmin Michael , Liveanu Varda , Burstein Carmit , Hanna Rawad , Kleifeld Oded , Simanowitz Marc C. , Meir Ayala , Tadmor Yaakov , Hirschberg Joseph , Adir Noam , Schuster Gadi
Published: April 2023

While light is the driving force of photosynthesis, excessive light can be harmful. Photoinhibition is one of the key processes that limit photosynthetic productivity. A well‐defined mechanism that protects from photoinhibition has been described. Chlorella ohadii is a green micro‐alga, isolated from biological desert soil crusts, which thrives under extreme high light (HL). Here, we show that this alga evolved unique protection mechanisms distinct from those of the green alga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii or plants. When grown under extreme HL, a drastic reduction in the size of light harvesting antennae occurs, resulting in the presence of core photosystem II, devoid of outer and inner antennas. This is accompanied by a massive accumulation of protective carotenoids and proteins that scavenge harmful radicals. At the same time, several elements central to photoinhibition protection in C. reinhardtii, such as psbS, light harvesting complex stress‐related, photosystem II protein phosphorylation and state transitions are entirely absent or were barely detected. In addition, a carotenoid biosynthesis‐related protein accumulates in the thylakoid membranes of HL cells and may function in sensing HL and protecting the cell from photoinhibition. Taken together, a unique photoinhibition protection mechanism evolved in C. ohadii, enabling the species to thrive under extreme‐light intensities where other photosynthetic organisms fail to survive.
Ventilatory response to peripheral chemoreflex and muscle metaboreflex during static handgrip in healthy humans: evidence of hyperadditive integration
Authors: de Oliveira Diogo Machado , Lopes Thiago Ribeiro , Gomes Felipe Silva , Rashid Anas , Silva Bruno Moreira
Published: April 2023

Exercise augments the hypoxia‐induced ventilatory response in an exercise intensity‐dependent manner. A mutual influence of hypoxia‐induced peripheral chemoreflex activation and exercise‐induced muscle metaboreflex activation might mediate the augmentation phenomenon. However, the nature of these reflexes' integration (i.e., hyperadditive, additive or hypoadditive) remains unclear, and the coactivation effect on breathing‐related sensations and emotions has not been explored. Accordingly, we investigated the effect of peripheral chemoreflex and muscle metaboreflex coactivation on ventilatory variables and breathing‐related sensations and emotions during exercise. Fourteen healthy adults performed 2‐min isocapnic static handgrip, first with the non‐dominant hand and immediately after with the dominant hand. During the dominant hand exercise, we (a) did not manipulate either reflex (control); (b) activated the peripheral chemoreflex by hypoxia; (c) activated the muscle metaboreflex in the non‐dominant arm by post‐exercise circulatory occlusion (PECO); or (d) coactivated both reflexes by simultaneous hypoxia and PECO use. Ventilation response to coactivation of reflexes (mean ± SD, 13 ± 6 l/min) was greater than the sum of responses to separated activations of reflexes (mean ± SD, 8 ± 8 l/min, P = 0.005). Breathing‐related sensory and emotional responses were similar between coactivation of reflexes and the sum of separate activations of reflexes. Thus, the peripheral chemoreflex and muscle metaboreflex integration during exercise appeared to be hyperadditive with regard to ventilation and additive with regard to breathing‐related sensations and emotions in healthy adults.
InAs quantum emitters at telecommunication wavelengths grown by droplet epitaxy
Authors: Stevens Margaret A. , McKenzie Wayne , Baumgartner Gerald , Grim Joel Q. , Carter Samuel G. , Bracker Allan S.
Published: April 2023

InAs quantum dots at telecommunication wavelengths are desired as single-photon sources, but a growth technique that enables wide control over quantum dot size, density, and morphology is needed. Droplet epitaxy is well suited for this purpose, but InAs nanostructures tend to form as rings on (001) InGaAs, InAlAs, and InP surfaces. In this work, we investigate how surface diffusion can be manipulated to grow quantum dots by molecular beam epitaxy without using high-index substrates or metamorphic buffers. First, surface diffusion characteristics of In on In0.52Al0.48As are compared to In and Ga on In0.53Ga0.47As. Then, a two-step arsenic exposure protocol is applied to modify the droplet crystallization step, resulting in a series of different nanostructure morphologies that have narrow-linewidth emission between 1200 and 1520 nm at 4 K. Ultimately, we show that controlling surface diffusion of the group-III species during growth is critical for achieving quantum dots appropriate for single-photon sources at telecommunication wavelengths.
Stress Management Strategies in Esports: An Exploratory Online Survey on Applied Practice
Authors: Leis Oliver , Watson Matthew , Swettenham Laura , Pedraza-Ramirez Ismael , Lautenbach Franziska
Published: April 2023

Given the competitive nature of esports (e.g., maintaining focus and adaptive coping) and the increasing interest from practitioners in addressing stress management issues, empirical evidence on stress management strategies is needed that is tailored to the unique demands of esports. To ensure that ethical and professional standards are being met, it is important to first explore the factors that practitioners perceive to negatively impact the performance of esports players and the stress management strategies that are currently being used to support these players. Therefore, an online survey of 25 practitioners was conducted with results highlighting a variety of factors that were perceived to negatively impact players’ performance such as players’ ability to cope and lack of self-confidence. In addition, stress management strategies used before and after competition most frequently included strategies such as imagery, breathing techniques, and social support. Future research directions, limitations, and practical implications are discussed.
Mechanical nanosurgery of chemoresistant glioblastoma using magnetically controlled carbon nanotubes
Authors: Wang Xian , Gong Zheyuan , Wang Tiancong , Law Junhui , Chen Xin , Wanggou Siyi , Wang Jintian , Ying Binbin , Francisco Michelle , Dong Weifan , Xiong Yi , Fan Jerry J. , MacLeod Graham , Angers Stephane , Li Xuejun , Dirks Peter B. , Liu Xinyu , Huang Xi , Sun Yu
Published: April 2023

Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most common and aggressive primary brain cancer. Despite multimodal treatment including surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy, median patient survival has remained at ~15 months for decades. This situation demands an outside-the-box treatment approach. Using magnetic carbon nanotubes (mCNTs) and precision magnetic field control, we report a mechanical approach to treat chemoresistant GBM. We show that GBM cells internalize mCNTs, the mobilization of which by rotating magnetic field results in cell death. Spatiotemporally controlled mobilization of intratumorally delivered mCNTs suppresses GBM growth in vivo. Functionalization of mCNTs with anti-CD44 antibody, which recognizes GBM cell surface–enriched antigen CD44, increases mCNT recognition of cancer cells, prolongs mCNT enrichment within the tumor, and enhances therapeutic efficacy. Using mouse models of GBM with upfront or therapy-induced resistance to temozolomide, we show that mCNT treatment is effective in treating chemoresistant GBM. Together, we establish mCNT-based mechanical nanosurgery as a treatment option for GBM.
Integration of reconfigurable microchannels into aligned three-dimensional neural networks for spatially controllable neuromodulation
Authors: Jeong Sohyeon , Kang Hyun Wook , Kim So Hyun , Hong Gyu-Sang , Nam Min-Ho , Seong Jihye , Yoon Eui-Sung , Cho Il-Joo , Chung Seok , Bang Seokyoung , Kim Hong Nam , Choi Nakwon
Published: April 2023

Anisotropically organized neural networks are indispensable routes for functional connectivity in the brain, which remains largely unknown. While prevailing animal models require additional preparation and stimulation-applying devices and have exhibited limited capabilities regarding localized stimulation, no in vitro platform exists that permits spatiotemporal control of chemo-stimulation in anisotropic three-dimensional (3D) neural networks. We present the integration of microchannels seamlessly into a fibril-aligned 3D scaffold by adapting a single fabrication principle. We investigated the underlying physics of elastic microchannels’ ridges and interfacial sol-gel transition of collagen under compression to determine a critical window of geometry and strain. We demonstrated the spatiotemporally resolved neuromodulation in an aligned 3D neural network by local deliveries of KCl and Ca2+signal inhibitors, such as tetrodotoxin, nifedipine, and mibefradil, and also visualized Ca2+signal propagation with a speed of ~3.7μm/s. We anticipate that our technology will pave the way to elucidate functional connectivity and neurological diseases associated with transsynaptic propagation.
Diverse cytomotive actins and tubulins share a polymerization switch mechanism conferring robust dynamics
Authors: Wagstaff James Mark , Planelles-Herrero Vicente José , Sharov Grigory , Alnami Aisha , Kozielski Frank , Derivery Emmanuel , Löwe Jan
Published: April 2023

Protein filaments are used in myriads of ways to organize other molecules within cells. Some filament-forming proteins couple the hydrolysis of nucleotides to their polymerization cycle, thus powering the movement of other molecules. These filaments are termed cytomotive. Only members of the actin and tubulin protein superfamilies are known to form cytomotive filaments. We examined the basis of cytomotivity via structural studies of the polymerization cycles of actin and tubulin homologs from across the tree of life. We analyzed published data and performed structural experiments designed to disentangle functional components of these complex filament systems. Our analysis demonstrates the existence of shared subunit polymerization switches among both cytomotive actins and tubulins, i.e., the conformation of subunits switches upon assembly into filaments. These cytomotive switches can explain filament robustness, by enabling the coupling of kinetic and structural polarities required for cytomotive behaviors and by ensuring that single cytomotive filaments do not fall apart.
Sensitive photodetection below silicon bandgap using quinoid-capped organic semiconductors
Authors: Li Tengfei , Hu Gangjian , Tao Liting , Jiang Jizhong , Xin Jingming , Li Yawen , Ma Wei , Shen Liang , Fang Yanjun , Lin Yuze
Published: April 2023

High-sensitivity organic photodetectors (OPDs) with strong near-infrared (NIR) photoresponse have attracted enormous attention due to potential applications in emerging technologies. However, few organic semiconductors have been reported with photoelectric response beyond ~1.1 μm, the detection limit of silicon detectors. Here, we extend the absorption of organic small-molecule semiconductors to below silicon bandgap, and even to 0.77 eV, through introducing the newly designed quinoid-terminals with high Mulliken-electronegativity (5.62 eV). The fabricated photodiode-type NIR OPDs exhibit detectivity (
D
*
) over 10
12
Jones in 0.41 to 1.2 μm under zero bias with a maximum of 2.9 × 10
12
Jones at 1.02 μm, which is the highest
D
*
for reported OPDs in photovoltaic-mode with response spectra beyond 1.1 μm. The high
D
*
in 0.9 to 1.2 μm is comparable to those of commercial InGaAs photodetectors, despite the detection limit of our OPDs is shorter than InGaAs (~1.7 μm). A spectrometer prototype with a wide measurable region (0.4 to 1.25 μm) and NIR imaging under 1.2-μm illumination are demonstrated successfully in OPDs.
Exploiting Real-Time Genomic Surveillance Data To Assess 4CMenB Meningococcal Vaccine Performance in Scotland, 2015 to 2022
Authors: Rodrigues C. M. C. , MacDonald L. , Ure R. , Smith A. , Cameron J. C. , Maiden M. C. J.
Published: April 2023

This study demonstrates the value of postimplementation genomic surveillance of vaccine-preventable pathogens in providing information on real-world vaccine performance. The data are consistent with 2 and 3 doses of Bexsero, delivered according to schedule, providing good protection against invasive disease caused by meningococci deduced from genomic data to be vaccine preventable.
Activation of the
Plasmodium
Egress Effector Subtilisin-Like Protease 1 Is Mediated by Plasmepsin X Destruction of the Prodomain
Authors: Mukherjee Sumit , Nasamu Armiyaw S. , Rubiano Kelly C. , Goldberg Daniel E.
Published: April 2023

Malaria parasites replicate inside a parasitophorous vacuole within the host red blood cells. The exit of mature progeny from the infected host cells is essential for further dissemination.
Complete Genome Sequences of Chop, DelRio, and GrandSlam, Three
Gordonia
Phages Isolated from Soil in Central Arkansas
Authors: Mathes Heidi N. , Christenson Elijah I. , Crum John H. , Edmondson Emme M. , Gray Kassidy E. , Lawson Luke W. , Lee Lauren E. , Lee Michael P. , Lipscomb Jackson A. , Masengale Morgan E. , Matthews Hannah G. , McClain Charles M. , Melton Tuesday N. , Morrow Trace H. , Perry Alexis M. , Rainwater David R. , Renois Grace E. , Rettig Maryann F. , Troup Duncan C. , Wilson Allie J. , Reyna Nathan S. , Plymale Ruth
Published: April 2023

Chop, DelRio, and GrandSlam are phage with a
Siphoviridae
morphotype isolated from soil in Arkansas using the host
Gordonia terrae
3612. All three are temperate, and their genomes share at least 96% nucleotide identity. These phage are assigned to cluster DI based on gene content similarity to other sequenced actinobacteriophage.
comCDE
(Competence) Operon Is Regulated by CcpA in Streptococcus pneumoniae D39
Authors: Zhang Yapeng , Zhang Jinghui , Xiao Jiangming , Wang Hanyi , Yang Rui , Guo Xinlin , Zheng Yuqiang , Yin Yibing , Zhang Xuemei
Published: April 2023

Streptococcus pneumoniae
is a major cause of bacterial infections in humans, such as pneumonia, bacteremia, meningitis, otitis media, and sinusitis. Like most streptococci,
S. pneumoniae
is naturally competent and employs this ability to augment its adaptive evolution.
A Mycobacterium tuberculosis Effector Targets Mitochondrion, Controls Energy Metabolism, and Limits Cytochrome
c
Exit
Authors: Martin Marianne , deVisch Angelique , Boudehen Yves-Marie , Barthe Philippe , Gutierrez Claude , Turapov Obolbek , Aydogan Talip , Heriaud Laurène , Gracy Jerome , Neyrolles Olivier , Mukamolova Galina V. , Letourneur François , Cohen-Gonsaud Martin
Published: April 2023

In this article, using a combination of techniques (bioinformatics, structural biology, and cell biology), we identified and characterized a new class of effectors present only in intracellular mycobacteria. These proteins specifically target host cell mitochondria when ectopically expressed in cells.
Repurposing 9-Aminoacridine as an Adjuvant Enhances the Antimicrobial Effects of Rifampin against Multidrug-Resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae
Authors: She Pengfei , Li Yimin , Li Zehao , Liu Shasha , Yang Yifan , Li Linhui , Zhou Linying , Wu Yong
Published: April 2023

Klebsiella pneumoniae
is a leading cause of clinically acquired infections. The increasing occurrence of drug-resistant
K. pneumoniae
has posed a serious threat to global public health.
ISG15 Is Required for the Dissemination of Vaccinia Virus Extracellular Virions
Authors: Bécares Martina , Albert Manuel , Tárrega Céline , Coloma Rocío , Falqui Michela , Luhmann Emma K. , Radoshevich Lilliana , Guerra Susana
Published: April 2023

Viral infections are a constant battle between the virus and the host. While the host’s only goal is victory, the main purpose of the virus is to spread and conquer new territories at the expense of the host’s resources.
Genetic Profiling of the Full-Length
tprK
Gene in Patients with Primary and Secondary Syphilis
Authors: Liu Dan , Liu Li-Li , Zheng Xin-Qi , Chen Rui , Lin Li-Rong , Yang Tian-Ci , Tong Man-Li
Published: April 2023

The resurgence of syphilis in both low- and high-income countries has attracted attention, and persistent infection by the pathogen has long been a research focus. The
tprK
gene, encoding the hypervariable outer membrane protein, is thought to be responsible for pathogen immune evasion and persistent infection.
Complexities and benefits of adopting next-generation sequencing-based tuberculosis diagnostics: a qualitative study among stakeholders in low and high-income countries
Authors: Grandjean Lapierre Simon , Nouvet Elysée , Boutin Catherine-Audrey , Rabodoarivelo Marie-Sylvianne , Mahboob Omar , Smith Maxwell J , Rakotosamimanana Niaina
Published: April 2023

Objectives

To clarify perceived benefits, barriers and facilitators ofMycobacterium tuberculosisnext-generation sequencing implementation in Madagascar and Canada, towards informing implementation of this diagnostic technology in public health agencies and clinical settings in and beyond these settings.

Design

This qualitative study involved conducting semistructured interviews with key stakeholders engaged with next-generation sequencing implementation in Madagascar and Canada. Team-based descriptive analysis supported by Nvivo V.12.0 was used to identify key themes.

Setting

The study was conducted with participants involved at the clinical, diagnostic and surveillance levels of tuberculosis (TB) management from Madagascar and Canada.

Participants

Eighteen participants were interviewed (nine Madagascar and nine Canada) and included individuals purposively sampled based on involvement with TB surveillance, laboratory diagnosis and clinical management.

Results

The following five themes emerged in the analysis of Malagasy and Canadian interviews: (1) heterogeneity in experience with established TB diagnostics, (2) variable understanding of new sequencing-based diagnostics potential; (3) further evidence as being key to expand adoption; (4) ethical arguments and concerns; (5) operational and system-level considerations.

Conclusion

There persists important lack of familiarity with TB next-generation sequencing (TB NGS) applications among stakeholders in Canada and Madagascar. This translates into skepticism on the evidence underlying its use and its true potential value added within global public health systems. If deployed, TB NGS testing should be integrated with clinical and surveillance programmes. Although this is perceived as a priority, leadership and funding responsibilities for this integration to happen remains unclear to clinical, laboratory and public health stakeholders.