bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diplodia twig canker (Diplodia gallae) of northern red oak (Quercus rubra) in the northeastern United States
Authors: Brazee Nicholas J. , Munck Isabel A. , McLaughlin Kelsey , Ferreira Savannah , Keleher Nicole
Published: July 2023

The 2015–2018 outbreak of spongy moth (Lymantria dispar) in southern New England initiated a severe oak decline and mortality event. While defoliation was a primary driver, increased secondary pest and pathogen activity contributed to decline and death. Following this large defoliation event, Diplodia was frequently recovered from northern red oaks (Quercus rubra) with serious outbreaks of twig cankering. Given the many recent reports of Diplodia corticola on oak in eastern North America, it was presumed to be the causal agent. To confirm, a limited survey was conducted from five states in the region (Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York, and Vermont). Based on ITS, tef1 and tub2 sequences generated from 28 isolates collected primarily from northern red oak, Diplodia gallae, two potentially novel Diplodia species and Diplodia sapinea were identified. Surprisingly, D. corticola was not found in this study. ITS sequences alone failed to discriminate among isolates of D. gallae and D. corticola, creating uncertainty over previous reports of D. corticola in eastern North America. Only a combined ITS + tef1 dataset successfully distinguished D. gallae and D. corticola along with two other closely related species that also occur on oak (Diplodia quercicola and Diplodia quercivora). Additional cankering and endophytic fungi (Coryneum, Dendrostoma, Gnomoniopsis, Pestalotiopsis and Tubakia) were also found on symptomatic oaks in the region. Identification of Diplodia isolates from non‐Quercus hosts also detected Diplodia neojuniperi on Juniperus chinensis and Microbiota decussata, which has not been reported previously in North America.
The effects of transcranial direct current stimulation on corticospinal excitability: A systematic review of nonsignificant findings
Authors: Klees‐Themens Gabrielle , Théoret Hugo
Published: July 2023

Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is a non‐invasive brain stimulation technique that can modulate brain activity through the application of low‐intensity electrical currents. Based on its reported effects on corticospinal excitability (CSE), tDCS has been used to study cognition in healthy individuals and reduce symptoms in a variety of clinical conditions. Despite its increasing popularity as a research and clinical tool, high interindividual variability has been reported in the response to protocols using transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) to assess tDCS‐induced changes in CSE leading to several nonsignificant findings. In this systematic review, studies that reported no significant modulation of CSE following tDCS were identified from PubMed and Embase (Ovid) databases. Forty‐three articles were identified where demographic, TMS and tDCS parameters were extracted. Overall, stimulation parameters, CSE measurements and participant characteristics were similar to those described in studies reporting positive results and were likewise heterogeneous between studies. Small sample sizes and inadequate blinding were notable features of the reviewed studies. This systematic review suggests that studies reporting nonsignificant findings do not markedly differ from those reporting significant modulation of CSE.
Bank competition and the design of syndicated loans
Authors: Chen Chongyang , Kieschnick Robert
Published: July 2023

We study the effect of bank competition on the design of syndicate loans. We find that competition in the lead lender's market plays a significant role in determining the terms of the syndicate loans. Specifically, higher concentration leads to higher yield spreads, larger issues, shorter maturities, greater contract intensity, and more collateral requirements, but with a greater likelihood of performance pricing. We also find the prior banking relationships, anti‐takeover provisions and whether the lead bank is a national, regional, or state bank influence the designs of these loans.
Climate change amplifies the risk of potentially toxigenic cyanobacteria
Authors: Erratt Kevin J. , Creed Irena F. , Lobb David A. , Smol John P. , Trick Charles G.
Published: July 2023

Cyanobacterial blooms pose a significant threat to water security, with anthropogenic forcing being implicated as a key driver behind the recent upsurge and global expansion of cyanobacteria in modern times. The potential effects of land‐use alterations and climate change can lead to complicated, less‐predictable scenarios in cyanobacterial management, especially when forecasting cyanobacterial toxin risks. There is a growing need for further investigations into the specific stressors that stimulate cyanobacterial toxins, as well as resolving the uncertainty surrounding the historical or contemporary nature of cyanobacterial‐associated risks. To address this gap, we employed a paleolimnological approach to reconstruct cyanobacterial abundance and microcystin‐producing potential in temperate lakes situated along a human impact gradient. We identified breakpoints (i.e., points of abrupt change) in these time series and examined the impact of landscape and climatic properties on their occurrence. Our findings indicate that lakes subject to greater human influence exhibited an earlier onset of cyanobacterial biomass by 40 years compared to less‐impacted lakes, with land‐use change emerging as the dominant predictor. Moreover, microcystin‐producing potential increased in both high‐ and low‐impact lakes around the 1980s, with climate warming being the primary driver. Our findings chronicle the importance of climate change in increasing the risk of toxigenic cyanobacteria in freshwater resources.
Ocean iron fertilization may amplify climate change pressures on marine animal biomass for limited climate benefit
Authors: Tagliabue Alessandro , Twining Benjamin S. , Barrier Nicolas , Maury Olivier , Berger Manon , Bopp Laurent
Published: July 2023

Climate change scenarios suggest that large‐scale carbon dioxide removal (CDR) will be required to maintain global warming below 2°C, leading to renewed attention on ocean iron fertilization (OIF). Previous OIF modelling has found that while carbon export increases, nutrient transport to lower latitude ecosystems declines, resulting in a modest impact on atmospheric CO2. However, the interaction of these CDR responses with ongoing climate change is unknown. Here, we combine global ocean biogeochemistry and ecosystem models to show that, while stimulating carbon sequestration, OIF may amplify climate‐induced declines in tropical ocean productivity and ecosystem biomass under a high‐emission scenario, with very limited potential atmospheric CO2 drawdown. The ‘biogeochemical fingerprint’ of climate change, that leads to depletion of upper ocean major nutrients due to upper ocean stratification, is reinforced by OIF due to greater major nutrient consumption. Our simulations show that reductions in upper trophic level animal biomass in tropical regions due to climate change would be exacerbated by OIF within ~20 years, especially in coastal exclusive economic zones (EEZs), with potential implications for fisheries that underpin the livelihoods and economies of coastal communities. Any fertilization‐based CDR should therefore consider its interaction with ongoing climate‐driven changes and the ensuing ecosystem impacts in national EEZs.
RESTORING CONTINUITY: NOTES ON HISTORY AND FICTION
Authors: VÁSQUEZ JUAN GABRIEL
Published: July 2023

In 1935, as Europe witnessed the rise of fascism, Paul Valéry tried to identify the origins of the crisis in a lecture titled “Le bilan de l'intelligence.” Things were better, he claimed, when people were able to understand their present moment as the result of past events—that is, when “continuity reigned in the minds.” In this article, I discuss why that sense of continuity with the past is, in fact, indispensable for individuals and societies alike; using instances from great works of fiction, ranging from Don Quixote to the novels of Toni Morrison and Abdulrazak Gurnah, I suggest that fiction—the literary imagination of the historical past—might be uniquely adept at restoring continuity when it is broken.
Disparities in healthcare access and utilization among people living with HIV in China: A scoping review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Ai Wei , Fan Chengxin , Marley Gifty , Tan Rayner K. J. , Wu Dan , Ong Jason J. , Tucker Joseph D. , Fu Gengfeng , Tang Weiming
Published: July 2023

Background

This review aims to assess the status of healthcare disparities among people living with HIV (PLWH) in China and summarize the factors that drive them.

Methods

We searched PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, Scopus, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) and China Wanfang for studies published in English or Chinese. Studies focusing on any disparities in healthcare services among PLWH in China and published between January 2000 and July 2022 were included.

Results

In all, 51 articles met the inclusion criteria, with 37 studies reporting HIV‐focused care, and 14 reporting non‐HIV‐focused care. PLWH aged ≥45 years (vs. <45 years), female (vs. male), ethnic minority (vs. Han), and cases attributed to sexual transmission (vs. injecting drug use) were more likely to receive ART. Females living with HIV have higher ART adherence than males. Notably, 20% [95% confidence interval (CI): 9–43%, I2 = 96%] of PLWH reported any illness in the previous 2 weeks without medical consultation, and 30% (95% CI: 12–74%, I2 = 90%) refused hospitalization when needed in the previous year. Barriers to HIV‐focused care included inadequate HIV/ART knowledge and treatment side effects at the individual level; and social discrimination and physician–patient relationships at the community/social level. Structural barriers included medical costs and transportation issues. The most frequently reported barriers to non‐HIV‐focused care were financial constraints and the perceived need for medical services at individual‐level factors; and discrimination from physicians, and medical distrust at the community/social level.

Conclusion

This review suggests disparities in access and utilization of healthcare among PLWH. Financial issues and social discrimination were prominent reasons. Creating a supportive social environment and expanding insurance policies could be considered to promote healthcare equity.
Can old drugs learn new tricks? Achieving registration and public subsidy listing for off‐patent medicines with novel therapeutic applications
Authors: Brett Jonathan , Bahceci Dilara , Lipworth Wendy , Liknaitzky Paul , Day Ric O. , Rodgers Anthony
Published: July 2023

With the increasing costs of drug development, repurposing of low‐cost medicines for new indications has never been more important. However, there are multiple barriers to repurposing, particularly for off‐patent medicines, and limited incentives for the pharmaceutical industry to sponsor registration and public subsidy listing. Here, we explore these barriers and their consequences and provide examples of successful repurposing strategies.
A twin study of genetic and environmental contributions to attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder over time
Authors: Taylor Mark J. , Martin Joanna , Butwicka Agnieszka , Lichtenstein Paul , D'Onofrio Brian , Lundström Sebastian , Larsson Henrik , Rosenqvist Mina A.
Published: July 2023

Background

Attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is an increasingly commonly diagnosed neurodevelopmental condition. One possibility is that this reflects a genuine increase in the prevalence of ADHD due to secular environmental changes, yet this hypothesis remains untested. We therefore investigated whether the genetic and environmental variance underlying ADHD, and traits of ADHD, has changed over time.

Methods

We identified twins born from 1982 to 2008 from the Swedish Twin Registry (STR). We linked the STR with the Swedish National Patient Register and Prescribed Drug Register to identify diagnoses of ADHD and prescriptions of ADHD medication for these twins. We also utilized data collected from participants in the Child and Adolescent Twin Study in Sweden (CATSS), born from 1992 to 2008. Their parents completed a structured ADHD screening tool, which was used to measure traits of ADHD and assign broad screening diagnoses of ADHD. We used the classical twin design to test whether the degree to which variation in these measures was influenced by genetic and environmental variation changed over time.

Results

We included 22,678 twin pairs from the STR and 15,036 pairs from CATSS. The heritability of ADHD in the STR ranged from 66% to 86% over time, although these fluctuations were not statistically significant. We observed a modest increase in variance in ADHD traits, from 0.98 to 1.09. This was driven by small increases in the underlying genetic and environmental variance, with heritability estimated as 64%–65%. No statistically significant changes in variance in screening diagnoses were observed.

Conclusions

The relative contribution of genetic and environmental factors to ADHD has remained stable over time, despite its increasing prevalence. Thus, changes in the underlying etiology of ADHD over time are unlikely to explain the increase in ADHD diagnoses.
Synergistic infection of Edwardsiella ictaluri and Flavobacterium oreochromis in cage cultured tilapia (Oreochromis sp.)
Authors: Nhinh Doan Thi , Hoa Dang Thi , Giang Nguyen Thi Huong , Van Van Kim , Dang Lua Thi , Crumlish Mags , Dong Ha Thanh , Hoai Truong Dinh
Published: July 2023

Widespread distribution of a highly pathogenic Edwardsiella ictaluri strain in farmed tilapia in northern Vietnam has recently been reported. The subsequent investigation noticed a disease outbreak occurred at five nearby tilapia farms with floating cages, in which the clinical signs of both edwardsiellosis and columnaris diseases were observed on the same infected fish and caused 65% to 85% fish mortality. Naturally diseased fish (n = 109) were sampled from the five infected farms for bacterial identification and conducting challenge tests. The two bacteria Edwardsiella ictaluri and Flavobacterium oreochromis were identified by a combination of biochemical tests, PCR and 16SrRNA sequencing methods. Experimental challenge tests on Nile tilapia resulted in the median lethal dose (LD50) of E. ictaluri and F. oreochromis at 70 CFU/fish by intraperitoneal (i.p.) injection and 3.6 × 106 CFU/mL by immersion, respectively. The experimentally co‐infected challenged fish exposed to LD50 doses resulted in 83% ± 6% mortality, with the infected fish exhibiting clinical signs of both edwardsiellosis and columnaris diseases, mimicking the naturally diseased fish. This finding suggests that the co‐infection of E. ictaluri and F. oreochromis may interact in a synergistic manner, to enhance the overall severity of the infection and elevates the need for efficient methods to control both pathogens.
A Double‐Edged Sword: Protective and Harmful Effects of International Students' Group Identification1
Authors: Imai Tatsuya
Published: July 2023

This study investigates how international students' identification with various social groups to which they belong influences their (mal)adjustment to the host country. One hundred and forty‐three international students were asked to report their identification with people from their home country, international students, and foreign people, as well as their perceived discrimination, homesickness, and loneliness. The results revealed more harmful effects of group identification than protective effects. Identification with people from their home country was positively associated with homesickness, but slightly buffered the harmful effect of discrimination on loneliness. Identification with international students was negatively associated with loneliness, but strengthened the harmful effect of discrimination on homesickness. Identification with foreign people was positively associated with discrimination and loneliness and also strengthened the harmful effect of discrimination on homesickness and loneliness.
Pervasive shock melting at >65 GPa in a Martian basalt, the shergottite Northwest Africa 14672
Authors: Hewins R. H. , Leroux H. , Jacob D. , Pont S. , Beyssac O. , Malarewicz V. , Lorand J.‐P. , Zanetta P.‐M. , Zanda B.
Published: July 2023

Shergottites have provided abundant information on the volcanic and impact history of Mars. Northwest Africa (NWA) 14672 contributes to both of these aspects. It is a vesicular ophitic depleted olivine–phyric shergottite, with average plagioclase An61Ab39Or0.2. It is highly ferroan, with pigeonite compositions En49‐25Fs41‐61Wo10‐14 like those of basaltic shergottites, for example, NWA 12335. Olivine (Fo53‐15) has discrete ferroan overgrowths, more ferroan when in contact with plagioclase than when enclosed by pyroxene. The pyroxene (a continuum of augite, subcalcic augite, and pigeonite) is patchy, with ragged “cores” enveloped or invaded by ferroan pyroxene. Magma mixing may be responsible for capture of olivine and formation of pyroxene mantles. The plagioclase is maskelynite‐like in appearance, but the original laths were (congruently) melted and the melt partly crystallized as fine dendrites. Most of the 14% vesicles occur within plagioclase. Olivine, pyroxene, and ilmenite occur in part as fine aggregates crystallized after congruent melting with limited subsequent liquid mixing. There are two fine‐grained melt components, barred plagioclase with interstitial Fe‐bearing phases, and glass with olivine dendrites, derived by melting of mainly plagioclase and mainly pyroxene, respectively. Rare silica particles contain coesite and/or quartz, and silica glass. The rock has experienced >50% melting, compatible with peak pressure >~65 GPa. It is the most highly shocked shergottite so far, at shock stage S6/7. It may belong to the group of depleted shergottites ejected at ~1 Myr from Tooting Crater.
Understanding rebel nurse leadership‐as‐practice: Challenging and changing the status quo in hospitals
Authors: de Kok Eline , Schoonhoven Lisette , Lalleman Pieterbas , Weggelaar Anne M.
Published: July 2023

Some nurses are responding rebelliously to the changing healthcare landscape by challenging the status quo and deviating from suboptimal practices, professional norms, and organizational rules. While some view rebel nurse leadership as challenging traditional structures to improve patient care, others see it as disruptive and harmful. These diverging opinions create dilemmas for nurses and nurse managers in daily practice. To understand the context, dilemmas, and interactions in rebel nurse leadership, we conducted a multiple case study in two Dutch hospitals. We delved into the mundane practices to expand the concept of leadership‐as‐practice. By shadowing rebel nurse practices, we identified three typical leadership practices which present the most common “lived” experiences and dilemmas of nurses and nurse managers. Overall, we noticed that deviating acts were more often quick fixes rather than sustainable changes. Our research points to what is needed to change the status quo in a sustainable manner. To change unworkable practices, nurses need to share their experienced dilemmas with their managers. In addition, nurse managers must build relationships with other nurses, value different perspectives, and support experimenting to promote collective learning.
Psychological experience of home‐quarantined older women with COVID‐19 in Hong Kong: A qualitative study
Authors: Ma Haixia , Ma Yajing , Chiu Jonie Sum Yu , Christensen Martin
Published: July 2023

Background

The surge of positive COVID‐19 cases taxed the local health care system and left many older adults initiating home self‐care practices. The study aimed to explore the psychological experiences of home‐quarantined older women diagnosed with COVID‐19 in Hong Kong.

Methods

Ten semi‐structured telephone interviews were held among older women from March to April 2022. Inductive thematic analysis was used to analyse the data.

Results

Older women experienced psychological distress, anxiety and depression after being infected with COVID‐19. The source of their psychological difficulties included fear of losing control over one's health and dignity, feeling a burden to one's family, conflict in balancing risks and responsibilities, and being overwhelmed by the tragic news reported in media. Meanwhile, the participants demonstrated resilience following the infection and found meaning in their experiences, and grew mentally.

Conclusions

The older women in this study have identified the negative impact having a diagnosis and being home‐quarantine means to them and their family. Yet, they were also able to take some positives from this. Importantly, the older women report being able to build greater resilience, optimism and wisdom towards COVID‐19 in general and feel better prepared for the potential of future positive diagnoses.
Evolution of a non‐flying mammal‐dependent pollination system in Asian Mucuna (Fabaceae)
Authors: Kobayashi S.
Published: July 2023

Pollinator shifts are often related to speciation in angiosperms, and the relationship between them has been discussed in several plant taxa. Although limited information on plants pollinated by non‐flying mammals in Central and South America and Africa is available, related research has not been conducted in Asia. Herein, I summarize the available knowledge of pollination in Asian Mucuna (Fabaceae), a genus mainly distributed in the tropics, and discuss the evolution of plants pollinated by non‐flying mammals in Asia. Nineteen pollinator species have been recorded and pollination systems have been categorized into four types. An examination of the relationship between Mucuna species and their pollinators from the lineage perspective revealed that all species in Mucuna, subgenus Macrocarpa, which are distributed in Asia, are pollinated exclusively by non‐flying mammals. Additionally, plants pollinated by non‐flying mammals were found to have diverged from bat‐pollinated and non‐flying mammal‐pollinated plants, while plants pollinated by non‐flying mammals have evolved multiple times. This is a unique example of evolutionary transition. I hypothesize that the diversification of squirrel species in tropical Asia may have led to the speciation and diversification of Mucuna in Asia. Furthermore, the behavioural and ecological characteristics of bats and birds in Asia differ from the characteristics of those in other regions, implying that Asian Mucuna species do not rely on bat or bird pollinators. The adaptation of floral characteristics to pollinators is not well understood in Asia. Mammal‐pollinated plants in Asia may have evolved differently from those in other regions and have unique pollination systems.
Establishment of a feline glycated hemoglobin reference interval for a novel dried‐blood‐spot assay and the effects of anemia on assay results
Authors: Mott Jocelyn , Dolan Jacqueline K. , Gilor Chen , Gilor Shir
Published: July 2023

Background

Glycated hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) reflects long‐term (months) glycemic control and has been previously investigated as a monitoring and diagnostic tool in diabetic cats. However, a standardized, reliable, and globally available test and reference intervals (RIs) have not been established. A novel dried‐blood‐spot card system (A1Care, Baycom Diagnostics) allows for easy collection and evaluation of HbA1c levels in feline patients.

Objective

We aimed to establish an RI for HbA1c values in healthy adult cats using the A1Care (Baycom Diagnostics) dried‐blood‐spot card system.

Methods

Forty‐one healthy client‐owned adult cats were enrolled in this study. The RI for HbA1c was calculated according to the recommendation of the American Society for Veterinary Clinical Pathology.

Results

The A1Care HbA1c RI for cats was determined to be 1.9%‐3.1%. In healthy cats, A1Care HbA1c values were positively correlated with age (Spearman rho = 0.4 [95% CI 0.1 to 0.6],P = 0.01). In 50% of anemic cats, the A1Care HbA1c value was above 3.1%. There was a weak negative correlation between the A1Care HbA1c value and PCV (Spearman rho = −0.4 [95% CI −0.6 to −0.1]).

Conclusions

This study established an RI for HbA1c in healthy adult cats similar to previously reported RIs. Future clinical studies are necessary to substantiate that this RI can differentiate diabetic from nondiabetic cats. Further long‐term clinical studies will be valuable to determine if HbA1c values can be used as a screening test for prediabetes in cats.
Metric decomposability theorems on sets of integers
Authors: Bienvenu Pierre‐Yves
Published: July 2023

A set is called additively decomposable (resp., asymptotically additively decomposable) if there exist sets of cardinality at least two each such that (resp., is finite). If none of these properties hold, the set is called totally primitive. We define ‐decomposability analogously with subsets of . Wirsing showed that almost all subsets of are totally primitive. In this paper, in the spirit of Wirsing, we study decomposability from a probabilistic viewpoint. First, we show that almost all symmetric subsets of are ‐decomposable. Then we show that almost all small perturbations of the set of primes yield a totally primitive set. Further, this last result still holds when the set of primes is replaced by the set of sums of two squares, which is by definition decomposable.
Lower limb hyperthermia augments functional hyperaemia during small muscle mass exercise similarly in trained elderly and young humans
Authors: Koch Esteves Nuno , Khir Ashraf W. , González‐Alonso José
Published: July 2023

Heat and exercise therapies are recommended to improve vascular health across the lifespan. However, the haemodynamic effects of hyperthermia, exercise and their combination are inconsistent in young and elderly people. Here we investigated the acute effects of local‐limb hyperthermia and exercise on limb haemodynamics in nine healthy, trained elderly (69 ± 5 years) and 10 young (26 ± 7 years) adults, hypothesising that the combination of local hyperthermia and exercise interact to increase leg perfusion, albeit to a lesser extent in the elderly. Participants underwent 90 min of single whole‐leg heating, with the contralateral leg remaining as control, followed by 10 min of low‐intensity incremental single‐leg knee‐extensor exercise with both the heated and control legs. Temperature profiles and leg haemodynamics at the femoral and popliteal arteries were measured. In both groups, heating increased whole‐leg skin temperature and blood flow by 9.5 ± 1.2°C and 0.7 ± 0.2 L min−1 (>3‐fold), respectively (P < 0.0001). Blood flow in the heated leg remained 0.7 ± 0.6 and 1.0 ± 0.8 L min−1 higher during exercise at 6 and 12 W, respectively (P < 0.0001). However, there were no differences in limb haemodynamics between cohorts, other than the elderly group exhibiting a 16 ± 6% larger arterial diameter and a 51 ± 6% lower blood velocity following heating (P < 0.0001). In conclusion, local hyperthermia‐induced limb hyperperfusion and/or small muscle mass exercise hyperaemia are preserved in trained older people despite evident age‐related structural and functional alterations in their leg conduit arteries.
Band structure and strain distribution of InAs quantum dots encapsulated in (Al)GaAs asymmetric matrixes
Authors: Olvera-Enríquez J. P. , Espinosa-Vega L. I. , Cortés-Mestizo I. E. , Mercado-Ornelas C. A. , Perea-Parrales F. E. , Belio-Manzano A. , Yee-Rendón C. M. , Méndez-García V. H.
Published: July 2023

The strain distribution and the electronic band structure of InAs quantum dots (QDs) embedded in asymmetrical (Al)GaAs barriers were studied by numerical analysis based on the finite element method. The outlines of the structures were designed considering experimental outcomes such as QDs morphology, wetting layer thickness, and the composition of the materials observed for the molecular beam epitaxial growth and capping of InAs/(Al)GaAs samples. The Al content in the AlGaAs alloy encapsulating material prompted variations on the island’s shape, so regular and truncated pyramidal QDs were simulated. According to the simulations, higher values of positive biaxial strain tensor εxx were obtained above the apex zone in pyramidal QDs as compared to truncated ones. The heavy hole and light hole bands intercalated relative positions along the internal QDs profile, a consequence of the compressive and tensile strain distribution inside the pyramidal QDs. The biaxial strain and the elastic energy analyzed above the apex zone and below the islands are important for the vertical correlation probability, and we found dependence on the shape of the nanostructure and the distance from the top of the islands to the surface spacer. Finally, those nanoislands for which the capping procedure did not change the geometry, showed a higher number of confined eigenstates, which is required for many optoelectronic applications.
Perspective on edge fracture
Authors: Chan San To , Varchanis Stylianos , Haward Simon J. , Shen Amy Q.
Published: July 2023

Edge fracture is a viscoelastic instability characterized by the sudden indentation of a fluid’s free surface when the fluid is subjected to a high enough shear rate. During shear rheometry, the fracture can invade the fluid sample, decreasing its contact area with the rheometer fixture and rendering the measurement of viscosity and normal stresses at high-shear rates invalid. Edge fracture can also induce apparent shear banding in the fluid, complicating the interpretation of experimental results. Over the past several decades, empirical and theoretical research has unraveled the physics underlying edge fracture. The knowledge obtained has allowed rheologists to develop techniques to minimize the adverse effect of fracture in their experiments. In recent years, edge fracture has also been used to break up viscoelastic liquid bridges quickly and cleanly, showing its potential to be adapted to the design of functional dispensing nozzles. This Perspective article aims to give a historical overview of edge fracture and suggests research directions to develop methods for suppressing or harnessing the phenomenon to benefit applications of both fundamental and technological importance.
A novel and noninvasive approach to study the shear rheology of complex fluid interfaces
Authors: Venerus David C.
Published: July 2023

Surfactants at gas-liquid and liquid-liquid interfaces have profound effects on interfacial stresses that strongly influence flow in bulk phases in contact with the interface. These effects include changes in interfacial tension and the development of extra stresses that arise when the interface is deformed. Surfactants are important in nature, biological function, and numerous technologies. Understanding interfacial rheology is critical to the development of improved surfactants for these important applications. Here, we propose a novel and noninvasive technique for the investigation of interfacial rheological behavior in shear deformations. In recent years, several techniques for such measurements have been developed and utilized to study a wide range of surfactant systems. However, existing techniques may inherently be invasive making it difficult to isolate the intrinsic interfacial rheological behavior from disturbances to the interface caused by the measurement itself. The proposed technique is indirect in that it does not require the introduction of a probe to deform the interface making it noninvasive. The viability of the technique is demonstrated through comprehensive fluid dynamics modeling of the flow involving a gas-liquid interface with different rheological behaviors.
The Effects of High-Load Slow-Velocity Resistance Exercise Training in Athletes With Tendinopathy: A Critically Appraised Topic
Authors: Taylor J. David , Corbitt Annemieke , Mathis Ruth Ann
Published: July 2023

Clinical Scenario: Tendinopathy is a musculoskeletal pathological condition experienced by athletes that can result in pain, impaired muscle performance, and loss of physical function and can hinder return to sports. Various types of resistance exercise training are effective for treating tendinopathy, including isometric, concentric, eccentric, and high-load slow-velocity resistance exercise. Clinical Question: What are the effects of high-load slow-velocity resistance exercise training, compared with other forms of resistance exercise, on tendon morphology and patient-reported outcomes in athletes with tendinopathy? Summary of Key Findings: The findings of 4 randomized clinical trials were included. One study compared high-load slow-velocity resistance exercise with moderate-load slow-velocity resistance exercise. Two studies investigated the effects of high-load slow-velocity resistance exercise versus eccentric resistance exercise. The fourth study compared high-load slow-velocity resistance exercise with inertia-based resistance exercise. In all of the studies, high-load slow-velocity resistance exercise was as effective as the other forms of resistance exercise for improving patient-reported outcomes and pain. Three studies found no significant differences in changes in tendon morphology between patients who received high-load slow-velocity resistance exercise versus those who received the other forms of resistance exercise. One study showed that high-load slow-velocity resistance exercise was more effective than eccentric exercise for improving tendon morphology outcomes. Clinical Bottom Line: Current evidence supports the use of high-load slow-velocity resistance exercise as a treatment option for patellar and Achilles tendinopathy in athletes. Strength of Recommendation: Results from level 2 studies suggest grade B evidence in support of high-load slow-velocity resistance exercise for treating athletes with tendinopathy.
Structural basis of gRNA stabilization and mRNA recognition in trypanosomal RNA editing
Authors: Liu Shiheng , Wang Hong , Li Xiaorun , Zhang Fan , Lee Jane K.J. , Li Zihang , Yu Clinton , Hu Jason J. , Zhao Xiaojing , Suematsu Takuma , Alvarez-Cabrera Ana L. , Liu Qiushi , Zhang Liye , Huang Lan , Aphasizheva Inna , Aphasizhev Ruslan , Zhou Z. Hong
Published: July 2023

In
Trypanosoma brucei
, the editosome, composed of RNA-editing substrate-binding complex (RESC) and RNA-editing catalytic complex (RECC), orchestrates guide RNA (gRNA)–programmed editing to recode cryptic mitochondrial transcripts into messenger RNAs (mRNAs). The mechanism of information transfer from gRNA to mRNA is unclear owing to a lack of high-resolution structures for these complexes. With cryo–electron microscopy and functional studies, we have captured gRNA-stabilizing RESC-A and gRNA-mRNA–binding RESC-B and RESC-C particles. RESC-A sequesters gRNA termini, thus promoting hairpin formation and blocking mRNA access. The conversion of RESC-A into RESC-B or -C unfolds gRNA and allows mRNA selection. The ensuing gRNA-mRNA duplex protrudes from RESC-B, likely exposing editing sites to RECC-catalyzed cleavage, uridine insertion or deletion, and ligation. Our work reveals a remodeling event facilitating gRNA-mRNA hybridization and assembly of a macromolecular substrate for the editosome’s catalytic modality.
Probing fundamental particles with molecules
Authors: Fan Mingyu , Jayich Andrew
Published: July 2023

Molecular spectroscopy constrains the size of the electron’s electric dipole moment
In Science Journals
Authors: Lopez Bianca , Lavine Marc S. , Hurtley Stella M. , Yeston Jake , Jiang Di , Stajic Jelena , Ferrarelli Leslie K. , Malo Courtney S. , Seale Maddy , Szuromi Phil , Fogg Christiana N.
Published: July 2023

Highlights from the
Science
family of journals
The star watcher
Authors: Normile Dennis
Published: July 2023

Amateur astronomer Koichi Itagaki is one of the most prolific supernova hunters of all time
CD74 Interacts with Proteins of Enterovirus D68 To Inhibit Virus Replication
Authors: Xiang Zichun , Tian Zhongqin , Wang Guanying , Liu Lulu , Li Kailin , Wang Wenjing , Lei Xiaobo , Ren Lili , Wang Jianwei
Published: July 2023

As an emerging non-polio enterovirus, EV-D68 is widely spread all over the world and causes severe neurological and respiratory illnesses. Here, we report that CD74 inhibits viral replication in infected cells by targeting 2B protein of EV-D68, while EV-D68 attenuates the antiviral role of CD74 through 3C
pro
cleavage. The equilibrium between CD74 and EV-D68 3C
pro
determines the outcome of viral infection.
High-Throughput Sequencing Reveals a Dynamic Bacterial Linkage between the Captive White Rhinoceros and Its Environment
Authors: Zhong Xiaojun , Zhao Junyang , Chen Ying , Liao Yanxin , Qin Tao , Zhang Dingjiang , Lai Xiaogang , Yang Chunlong , Wang Yu , Zhang Xianfu , Yang Menghua
Published: July 2023

The white rhinoceros is one of the world’s most endangered mammals. The microbial population plays a key role in animal health and welfare; however, studies regarding the microbial communities of the white rhinoceros are relatively limited.
Supplemental Material: cdem: A macOS program for discrete element modeling of tectonic structures
Authors: Cardozo Nestor , Hardy Stuart
Published: July 2023

Includes cdem simulations for Figures 1–12. Notes from author: These are files with .cdem extension containing the parameters and settings for each simulation. In addition, Table 2 specifies the general settings that must be set for each simulation via the Preferences panel (Fig. 3). Please note that after opening any of these files in cdem, you will need to Initialize it and Run it to recreate the results. Use a powerful computer with as many cores as possible. 
Supplemental Material: FTIR study of H2O in silicate minerals and mineral inclusions in chromite from the peridotite zone of the Stillwater complex: Evidence for chromitite formation in an H2O-rich environment
Authors: Bai Yang , Su Ben-Xun , et al.
Published: July 2023

Table S1: Number, brief descriptions, and locations of the studied samples from the Stillwater complex. Table S2: Major-element compositions of silicate minerals in two types of inclusions and interstitial matrix. Table S3: Major-element concentrations of bulk inclusion and proposed parental magmas for the ultramafic series. Figure S1: Backscattered electron images showing the distribution of polymineralic inclusions in chromite from the Stillwater complex. Figure S2: Details of backscattered electron images showing morphology, texture, and mineral assemblage of polymineralic inclusions in chromite from the Stillwater complex. Figure S3: Details of backscattered electron images of single-phase inclusions occurring in margins of chromite grains. Figure S4: Cross-polarized photomicrographs for selected samples. Figure S5: Unpolarized infrared absorption spectra for olivine, orthopyroxene, and clinopyroxene from the Stillwater complex.
Supplemental Material: The formation of a giant post-collision porphyry copper system: A case study of the Jiama deposit, Tibet
Authors: Sun Miao , Lin Bin , et al.
Published: July 2023

Supplemental Text S1: Analytical Methods. Figures S1–S4. Table S1: LA-ICP-MS zircon U-Pb isotopic data for different magmatic rocks of the Jiama deposit. Table S2: LA-ICP-MS zircon trace element data for different magmatic rocks of the Jiama deposit. Table S3: Whole-rock major and trace element data for different magmatic rocks of the Jiama deposit. Table S4: Sr-Nd isotopic compositions for different magmatic rocks of the Jiama deposit. Table S5: Representative electron-microprobe results of plagioclase phenocryst in the Jiama monzogranite porphyry. Table S6: REE modelling on batch melting for Jiama primary adakite-like magmas. Table S7: Whole-rock geochemistry model setup and partition coefficients for the silicic magma evolution.
Prevalence of myopia among children and adolescents aged 6–16 during COVID-19 pandemic: a large-scale cross-sectional study in Tianjin, China
Authors: Li Tongtong , Wei Ruihua , Du Bei , Wu Qi , Yan Jing , Meng Xiangda , Liu Yuanyuan , Yang Qiang , Kee Chea-Su , Huang Guowei , Yan Hua
Published: July 2023

Purpose

This study aimed to determine the prevalence of myopia among children and adolescents aged 6–16 years during COVID-19 pandemic in Tianjin, China.

Methods

This was a cross-sectional study using data from the Tianjin Child and Adolescent Research of Eye between March and June in 2021. A total of 909 835 children and adolescents aged 6–16 years from 1348 primary and secondary schools in Tianjin, China were recruited. Prevalence of myopia with 95% CIs was described in different regions, sexes and ages. The regions-standardised prevalence rate and chain growth rate of myopia in different ages were described the characteristics of myopia.

Results

A total of 864 828 participants (95.05% participation rate) were included in the analysis. The age range was 6–16 with a mean age of 11.50±2.79 years. The overall prevalence of myopia was 54.71% (95% CI 54.60% to 54.81%). The prevalence of myopia was 57.58% (95% CI 57.43% to 57.73%) for girls and 52.05% (95% CI 51.91% to 52.20%) for boys. Students living in the six central districts had the highest prevalence of moderate myopia (19.09% (95% CI 19.01% to 19.17%)) and high myopia (5.43% (95% CI 5.39% to 5.48%)). The regions-standardised prevalence of myopia was increased by age and the highest chain growth rate of myopia was up to 47.99% at 8 years.

Conclusions

The prevalence of myopia in Tianjin is high during COVID-19 pandemic. The progression of myopia started to increase dramatically at 8 years, and the increasing slowed down at 14 years. For policy-makers, intervention in the lower age groups may be important to control myopia progression.
Does a corticosteroid injection plus exercise or exercise alone add to the effect of patient advice and a heel cup for patients with plantar fasciopathy? A randomised clinical trial
Authors: Riel Henrik , Vicenzino Bill , Olesen Jens Lykkegaard , Bach Jensen Martin , Ehlers Lars Holger , Rathleff Michael Skovdal
Published: July 2023

Objective

To compare the effectiveness of patient advice plus heel cup alone (PA) versus PA and lower limb exercise (PAX) versus PAX plus corticosteroid injection (PAXI) to improve self-reported pain in patients with plantar fasciopathy.

Methods

We recruited 180 adults with plantar fasciopathy confirmed by ultrasonography for this prospectively registered three-armed, randomised, single-blinded superiority trial. Patients were randomly allocated to PA (n=62), PA plus self-dosed lower limb heavy–slow resistance training consisting of heel raises (PAX) (n=59), or PAX plus an ultrasound-guided injection of 1 mL triamcinolone 20 mg/mL (PAXI) (n=59). The primary outcome was changed in the pain domain of the Foot Health Status Questionnaire (ranging from 0 ‘worst’ to 100 ‘best’) from baseline to the 12-week follow-up. The minimal important difference in the pain domain is 14.1 points. The outcome was collected at baseline and at 4, 12, 26, and 52 weeks.

Results

The primary analysis found a statistically significant difference between PA and PAXI after 12 weeks favouring PAXI (adjusted mean difference: −9.1 (95% CI −16.8 to −1.3; p=0.023)) and over 52 weeks (adjusted mean difference: −5.2 (95% CI −10.4 to −0.1; p=0.045)). At no follow-up did the mean difference between groups exceed the pre-specified minimal important difference. No statistically significant difference was found between PAX and PAXI or between PA and PAX at any time.

Conclusion

No clinically relevant between-group differences were found after 12 weeks. The results indicate that combining a corticosteroid injection with exercise is not superior to exercise or no exercise.

Trial registration number

NCT03804008.
Emergency department staff views of NHS 111 First: qualitative interview study in England
Authors: MacLellan Jennifer , Turnbull Joanne , Prichard Jane , Pope Catherine
Published: July 2023

Background

NHS 111 is a phone and online urgent care triage and assessment system that aims to reduce UK ED demand. In 2020, 111 First was introduced to triage patients before entry to the ED and to offer direct booking for patients needing ED or urgent care into same-day arrival time slots. 111 First continues to be used post pandemic, but concerns about patient safety, delays or inequities in accessing care have been voiced. This paper examines ED and urgent care centre (UCC) staff experiences of NHS 111 First.

Method

Semistructured telephone interviews were conducted with ED/UCC practitioners across England between October 2020 and July 2021 as part of a larger multimethod study examining the impact of NHS 111 online. We purposively recruited from areas with high need/demand likely to be using NHS 111 services. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and coded inductively by the primary researcher. We coded all items to capture experiences of 111 First within the full project coding tree and from this constructed two explanatory themes which were refined by the wider research team.

Results

We recruited 27 participants (10 nurses, 9 doctors and 8 administrator/managers) working in ED/UCCs serving areas with high deprivation and mixed sociodemographic profiles. Participants reported local triage/streaming systems predating 111 First continued to operate so that, despite prebooked arrival slots at the ED, all attendances were funnelled into a single queue. This was described by participants as a source of frustration for staff and patients. Interviewees perceived remote algorithm-based assessments as less robust than in-person assessments which drew on more nuanced clinical expertise.

Discussion

While remote preassessment of patients before they present at ED is attractive, existing triage and streaming systems based on acuity, and staff views about the superiority of clinical acumen, are likely to remain barriers to the effective use of 111 First as a demand management strategy.
Ciliated foregut cysts involving the hepatopancreaticobiliary system: a clinicopathological evaluation with focus on atypical features
Authors: Navale Pooja , Glickman Jonathan , Nasser Imad , Shia Jinru , Vyas Monika
Published: July 2023

Aims

Foregut cystic malformations are rare developmental abnormalities, which may involve the hepatopancreaticobiliary tract (HPBT). These cysts are composed of inner ciliated epithelium; subepithelial connective tissue layer; smooth muscle layer; and an outer fibrous layer. While radiopathologic findings are often diagnostic, atypical location and histologic features can pose a diagnostic challenge. We aimed to study ciliated foregut cysts (CFCs) in the HPBT, assess their clinicopathological features with a focus on atypical features.

Methods

We collected cases of CFCs involving the HPBT from three large academic medical centres. H&E-stained slides and immunohistochemical stains (where available) were reviewed for each case. Relevant demographic, clinical and pathological information was collected from the medical records.

Results

21 cases were identified. The median age was 53 years (range, 3–78 years). 17 cysts were identified within the liver (segment 4 was the most common location, n=10) and 4 in the pancreas. Cysts were mostly identified incidentally (n=13), abdominal pain was a common symptom (n=5). Cyst size ranged from 0.7 to 17.0 cm (median, 2.5 cm). Radiological findings were available in 17 cases. Cilia were identified in all cases. 19 of 21 cases demonstrated the presence of a smooth muscle layer (thickness, <0.1 mm to 3.0 mm). Three cases showed gastric metaplasia, while one case revealed additional low-grade dysplasia, with features similar to intraductal papillary neoplasm of the bile duct.

Conclusions

We highlight clinicopathological features of CFCs in the HPBT. The histomorphology is usually straightforward; however, unusual location and atypical features can pose a diagnostic challenge.