bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Two doses of subcutaneous methadone for postoperative analgesia in dogs undergoing tibial plateau levelling osteotomies
Authors: Upchurch D. , Lin K. T. T. , KuKanich B.
Published: April 2024

Objectives

To evaluate analgesia, sedation and adverse effects of two doses of subcutaneous methadone in dogs undergoing tibial plateau levelling osteotomy.

Materials and Methods

Seventeen client‐owned dogs undergoing unilateral tibial plateau levelling osteotomy were randomly allocated to receive either 0.25 mg/kg methadone (eight dogs) or 0.5 mg/kg methadone (nine dogs). All dogs were premedicated with methadone and 2 to 6 mcg/kg dexmedetomidine subcutaneously. They were induced and maintained on a standard protocol. All animals received a second dose of methadone subcutaneously 4 hours after premedication and a 4.4 mg/kg dose of carprofen subcutaneously at 8 hours after premedication. During surgery, blood pressure, heart rate and temperature were assessed every 5 minutes. Postoperatively, sedation scores, temperature, heart rate and Glasgow composite modified pain score – short form were assessed for 12 hours postoperatively.

Results

One of 17 (5.9%) dogs had intraoperative hypotension, nine of 17 dogs had intra‐operative bradyarrhythmias and 17 of 17 dogs had intra‐operative hypothermia. No dogs required intra‐operative rescue. Composite modified pain score – short form scores were below the threshold for intervention in 16 of 17 (94.1%) animals. Only one of 17 (5.9%) dogs required rescue analgesia. Median sedation score was 0 by the T8 time point. Adverse events were rare in both groups with only vocalisation and hypothermia reported commonly postoperatively.

Clinical Significance

Two doses of methadone at either 0.25 or 0.5 mg/kg administered via subcutaneous injections pre‐operatively and 4 hours later, along with 4.4 mg/kg carprofen subcutaneously 8 hours after the first methadone dose appear to provide sufficient pain control for up to 12 hours in dogs undergoing tibial plateau levelling osteotomy.
Pharmacokinetics of tilmicosin in plasma, urine and feces after a single intragastric administration in donkey (Equus asinus)
Authors: Yang Bowen , Liu Shijie , Guo Yanxin , Qu Honglei , Feng Yulong , Wang Yantao , Dong Boying , Dong Yanjie , Zhao Shancang , Huang Shimeng , Zhao Lihong , Zhang Jianyun , Ji Cheng , Ma Qiugang
Published: April 2024

Tilmicosin, a macrolide antibiotic, has the potential to treat bacterial infections in donkeys. However, the pharmacokinetics of tilmicosin in donkeys have not been reported. The aim of this study was to investigate the pharmacokinetics of tilmicosin in donkey plasma, urine, and feces after a single intragastric administration to determine the suitability of tilmicosin for donkeys. A total of 5 healthy male donkeys with similar body weights were selected. The donkeys were administered a single dose of 10 mg · kg−1 body weight (BW) tilmicosin by gavage. The concentrations of tilmicosin in plasma, urine, and feces were determined. The results showed that after a single intragastric administration of 10 mg · kg−1 body weight, tilmicosin in donkey plasma reached a maximum concentration of 11.23 ± 5.37 mg · L−1 at 0.80 ± 0.10 h, with a half‐life of 14.49 ± 7.13 h, a mean residence time of 28.05 ± 3.05 h, a Cl/F of 0.48 ± 0.18 L · kg−1 · h−1, and a Vd/F of 9.28 ± 2.63 Lkg−1. The percentage of tilmicosin excreted through the urine of donkeys is 2.47%, and the percentage excreted through the feces is 66.43%. Our study provides data to inform the use of tilmicosin in donkeys.
Institutions as predictors of government discrimination
Authors: Berggren Niclas , Bjørnskov Christian
Published: April 2024

Exclusion of some groups caused by the misuse of government power remains a major problem across the world. We propose that market‐oriented institutions and policies have the capacity to reduce such exclusion. To test this, we use an overall measure derived from the V‐Dem dataset, capturing government discrimination based on political group, social group, socio‐economic group, and gender, which we combine with the Fraser Institute's Economic Freedom of the World index. The sample consists of 153 countries for 1970–2020, which we organize in a panel consisting of consecutive, non‐overlapping 5‐year periods, rendering up to about 1,200 observations. Our estimates show a clear negative association between the rule of law and government discrimination in electoral democracies and electoral autocracies but not in single‐party autocracies. There are, however, reasons for not considering the finding for electoral autocracies causal. Two further areas of economic freedom seem to matter: free trade is negatively related to government exclusion in electoral democracies, while regulatory freedom is so in both types of autocracies. Thus, it seems as if a market‐economic system may be able to constrain public officials in the direction of non‐discrimination.
Firm‐size wage‐gaps and hierarchy: Evidence from Canada
Authors: Bousmah Ibrahim
Published: April 2024

I investigate the role of hierarchy in explaining wage differential between Canadian large and small firms. I use the confidential‐use files of the Labour Force Survey (LFS) from 2016 to 2022 and exploit the mini‐panels form to control for time‐invariant unobserved heterogeneity. The results show that the Canadian employer size wage effects for managers are approximately twice those for non‐managers which is consistent with the results of prior studies for other countries. Managers who move from a small to a large firm have earnings increase of 20%, twice the estimated size‐wage differential of non‐managers (11%). The results also demonstrate that low‐skill workers moving from a small to a large firm have earnings increase of 5.3% which is significantly lower than high‐skill workers (14.1%). Those results support the role of the hierarchy in explaining an important part of the size‐wage effect for Canadian workers.
Impact of MASLD and MetALD on clinical outcomes: A meta‐analysis of preliminary evidence
Authors: Ciardullo Stefano , Mantovani Alessandro , Morieri Mario Luca , Muraca Emanuele , Invernizzi Pietro , Perseghin Gianluca
Published: April 2024

A recent Delphi consensus proposed a new definition for metabolic dysfunction associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) and introduced a disease entity called MetALD, a condition in which steatotic liver disease (SLD), metabolic dysfunction and moderate alcohol intake coexist. Given the limited available data on the prognostic implications of these disease entities, we performed a systematic review and meta‐analysis of available cohort studies to evaluate the association of MASLD and MetALD with hard clinical outcomes. We included 5 studies for a total of 9 824 047 participants. Compared with participants without SLD, increased rates of all‐cause mortality and incident cardiovascular disease were present for both MASLD and MetALD. Moreover, MetALD was also associated with significantly higher risks of cancer‐related mortality (n = 2 studies, random‐effects HR 2.10, 95% CI 1.35–3.28) and cardiovascular mortality (n = 3 studies, random‐effects HR 1.17, 95% CI 1.12–1.22). Although preliminary, available evidence indicates a more unfavourable prognosis for patients with MetALD compared with those with MASLD.
Survival in nunatak and peripheral glacial refugia of three alpine plant species is partly predicted by altitudinal segregation
Authors: Rota Francesco , Carnicero Pau , Casazza Gabriele , Nascimbene Juri , Schönswetter Peter , Wellstein Camilla
Published: April 2024

Mountain biota survived the Quaternary cold stages most probably in peripheral refugia and/or ice‐free peaks within ice‐sheets (nunataks). While survival in peripheral refugia has been broadly demonstrated, evidence for nunatak refugia is still scarce. We generated RADseq data from three mountain plant species occurring at different elevations in the southeastern European Alps to investigate the role of different glacial refugia during the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM). We tested the following hypotheses. (i) The deep Piave Valley forms the deepest genetic split in the species distributed across it, delimiting two peripheral refugia. (ii) The montane to alpine species Campanula morettiana and Primula tyrolensis survived the LGM in peripheral refugia, while high‐alpine to subnival Saxifraga facchinii likely survived in several nunatak refugia. (iii) The lower elevation species suffered a strong population decline during the LGM. By contrast, the higher elevation species shows long‐term stability of population sizes due to survival on permanently ice‐free peaks and small population sizes at present. We found peripheral refugia on both sides of the Piave Valley, which acted as a major genetic barrier. Demographic modelling confirmed nunatak survival not only for S. facchinii but also for montane to alpine C. morettiana. Altitudinal segregation influenced the species' demographic fluctuations, with the lower elevation species showing a significant population increase at the end of the LGM, and the higher elevation species either showing decrease towards the present or stable population sizes with a short bottleneck. Our results highlight the role of nunatak survival and species ecology in the demographic history of mountain species.
Occupying liminal spaces: The figured worlds of student affairs senior leaders in the United States
Authors: McOwen Katherine S. , Konopasky Abigail W. , Merkebu Jerusalem , Varpio Lara
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Student Affairs Senior Leaders (SASLs) in the United States lead offices responsible for academic advising, administrative documentation, scheduling, student health, financial aid, and transition to residency, yet they infrequently draw attention in the field's literature. We explore the role of SASLs and how they describe the social space of medical education.

Methods

Using a constructivist approach informed by Figured Worlds theory, we conducted a sequential narrative and thematic analysis of the stories SASLs tell about their roles and experiences in the world of medical education.

Results

SASLs inhabit complex roles centred on advocating for medical students' academic, personal and social well‐being. Their unique position within the medical school allows them to see the harm to vulnerable students made possible by misalignments inherent within medical education. Yet even with the challenges inherent in the environment, SASLs find reasons for hope.

Conclusion

SASLs' identities are full of potential contradictions, but they have a unique view into the often‐chaotic world of medical education.
The best of both worlds: Assessing trainee progression in the era of competency based medical education
Authors: Gauthier Stephen , Hatala Rose
Published: April 2024

The authors suggest reducing the use of WBA where it is not fit for purpose and developing locally sustainable and defensible programs of assessment as steps towards unlocking the value of CBME.
Integrating perspectives in developing mycorrhizal trait databases: a call for inclusive and collaborative continental efforts
Authors: Mujica María Isabel , Silva‐Flores Patricia , Bueno C. Guillermo , Duchicela Jessica
Published: April 2024

Global assessments of mycorrhizal symbiosis present large sampling gaps in rich biodiversity regions. Filling these gaps is necessary to build large‐scale, unbiased mycorrhizal databases to obtain reliable analyses and prevent misleading generalizations. Underrepresented regions in mycorrhizal research are mainly in Africa, Asia, and South America. Despite the high biodiversity and endemism in these regions, many groups of organisms remain understudied, especially mycorrhizal fungi. In this Viewpoint, we emphasize the importance of inclusive and collaborative continental efforts in integrating perspectives for comprehensive trait database development and propose a conceptual framework that can help build large mycorrhizal databases in underrepresented regions. Based on the four Vs of big data (volume, variety, veracity, and velocity), we identify the main challenges of constructing a large mycorrhizal dataset and propose solutions for each challenge. We share our collaborative methodology, which involves employing open calls and working groups to engage all mycorrhizal researchers in the region to build a South American Mycorrhizal Database. By fostering interdisciplinary collaborations and embracing a continental‐scale approach, we can create robust mycorrhizal trait databases that provide valuable insights into the evolution, ecology, and functioning of mycorrhizal associations, reducing the geographical biases that are so common in large‐scale ecological studies.
Weak links: Advancing target‐based drug discovery by identifying the most vulnerable targets
Authors: Bosch Barbara , DeJesus Michael A. , Schnappinger Dirk , Rock Jeremy M.
Published: April 2024

Mycobacterium tuberculosis remains the most common infectious killer worldwide despite decades of antitubercular drug development. Effectively controlling the tuberculosis (TB) pandemic will require innovation in drug discovery. In this review, we provide a brief overview of the two main approaches to discovering new TB drugs—phenotypic screens and target‐based drug discovery—and outline some of the limitations of each method. We then explore recent advances in genetic tools that aim to overcome some of these limitations. In particular, we highlight a novel metric to prioritize essential targets, termed vulnerability. Stratifying targets based on their vulnerability presents new opportunities for future target‐based drug discovery campaigns.
Multi‐targets of antimicrobial photodynamic therapy mediated by erythrosine against Staphylococcus aureus identified by proteomic approach
Authors: de Oliveira Silva João Vitor , Meneguello Jean Eduardo , Formagio Maíra Dante , de Freitas Camila Fabiano , Malacarne Luis Carlos , Marchiosi Rogério , de Mendonça Patrícia de Souza Bonfim , Zanetti Campanerut‐Sá Paula Aline , Graton Mikcha Jane Martha
Published: April 2024

Staphylococcus aureus is a global challenge to the clinical field and food industry. Therefore, the development of antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) has become one of the valuable methods to control this pathogen. The antibacterial activity of photoinactivation by erythrosine (Ery) against S. aureus has been reported, but its modes of action are unclear. This study aimed to employ a proteomic approach to analyze modes of action of Ery‐aPDT against S. aureus. We determined the antibacterial effect by Ery‐aPDT assays, quantified reactive oxygen species (ROS) and injury to the cell membrane, and determined protein expression using a proteomic approach combined with bioinformatic tools. Ery‐aPDT was effective in reducing S. aureus to undetectable levels. In addition, the increment of ROS accompanied the increase in the reduction of cell viability, and damage to cellular membranes was shown by sublethal injury. In proteomic analysis, we found 17 differentially expressed proteins. These proteins revealed changes mainly associated with defense to oxidative stress, energy metabolism, translation, and protein biosynthesis. Thus, these results suggest that the effectiveness of Ery‐aPDT is due to multi‐targets in the bacterial cell that cause the death of S. aureus.
Eosin Y‐catalyzed reductive homocoupling of para‐quinone methides under visible‐light
Authors: Rekha  , Fatma Shaheen , Sharma Sonam , Anand Ramasamy Vijaya
Published: April 2024

In this manuscript, we demonstrate a visible‐light driven dimerization of para‐quinone methides using eosin Y catalyst via a reductive homocoupling process. This mild and operationally simple methodology was found to be compatible with a variety of differently substituted para‐quinone methides and a broad range of tetra‐arylethane derivatives were obtained in moderate to good yields (47%–87%).
Forest fire spreading: A nonlinear stochastic model continuous in space and time
Authors: Beneduci Roberto , Mascali Giovanni
Published: April 2024

Forest fire spreading is a complex phenomenon characterized by a stochastic behavior. Nowadays, the enormous quantity of georeferenced data and the availability of powerful techniques for their analysis can provide a very careful picture of forest fires opening the way to more realistic models. We propose a stochastic spreading model continuous in space and time that has the potentiality to use such data in their full power. The state of the forest fire is described by the subprobability densities of the green trees and of the trees on fire that can be estimated thanks to data coming from satellites and earth detectors. The fire dynamics is encoded into a kernel function that can take into account wind conditions, land slope, spotting phenomena, and so on, bringing to a system of integrodifferential equations whose solutions provide the evolution in time of the subprobability densities. That makes the model complementary to models based on cellular automata that furnish single instantiations of the stochastic phenomenon. Moreover, stochastic models based on cellular automata can be derived from the present model by space and time discretization. Existence and uniqueness of the solutions is proved by using Banach's fixed‐point theorem. The asymptotic behavior of the model is analyzed as well. By specifying a particular structure for the kernel, we obtain numerical simulations of the fire spreading under different conditions. For example, in the case of a forest fire evolving toward a river, the simulations show that the probability density of the trees on fire is different from zero beyond the river due to the spotting phenomenon. The kernel could be slightly modified to include firefighters interventions and weather changes.
Distal hamstrings tendons mechanical properties at rest and contraction using free‐hand 3‐D ultrasonography
Authors: Sahinis Chrysostomos , Kellis Eleftherios
Published: April 2024

Tendon properties impact human locomotion, influencing sports performance, and injury prevention. Hamstrings play a crucial role in sprinting, particularly the biceps femoris long head (BFlh), which is prone to frequent injuries. It remains uncertain if BFlh exhibits distinct mechanical properties compared to other hamstring muscles. This study utilized free‐hand three‐dimensional ultrasound to assess morphological and mechanical properties of distal hamstrings tendons in 15 men. Scans were taken in prone position, with hip and knee extended, at rest and during 20%, 40%, 60%, and 80% of maximal voluntary isometric contraction of the knee flexors. Tendon length, volume, cross‐sectional area (CSA), and anteroposterior (AP) and mediolateral (ML) widths were quantified at three locations. Longitudinal and transverse deformations, stiffness, strain, and stress were estimated. The ST had the greatest tendon strain and the lowest stiffness as well as the highest CSA and AP and ML width strain compared to other tendons. Biceps femoris short head (BFsh) exhibited the least strain, AP and ML deformation. Further, BFlh displayed the highest stiffness and stress, and BFsh had the lowest stress. Additionally, deformation varied by region, with the proximal site showing generally the lowest CSA strain. Distal tendon mechanical properties differed among the hamstring muscles during isometric knee flexions. In contrast to other bi‐articular hamstrings, the BFlh high stiffness and stress may result in greater energy absorption by its muscle fascicles, rather than the distal tendon, during late swing in sprinting. This could partly account for the increased incidence of hamstring injuries in this muscle.
Reference values for leg effort during incremental cycle ergometry in non‐trained healthy men and women, aged 19–85
Authors: Hijleh Abed A. , Wang Sophia , Berton Danilo C. , Neder‐Serafini Igor , Vincent Sandra , James Matthew , Domnik Nicolle , Phillips Devin , Nery Luiz E. , O'Donnell Denis E. , Neder J. Alberto
Published: April 2024

Heightened sensation of leg effort contributes importantly to poor exercise tolerance in patient populations. We aim to provide a sex‐ and age‐adjusted frame of reference to judge symptom's normalcy across progressively higher exercise intensities during incremental exercise. Two‐hundred and seventy‐five non‐trained subjects (130 men) aged 19–85 prospectively underwent incremental cycle ergometry. After establishing centiles‐based norms for Borg leg effort scores (0–10 category‐ratio scale) versus work rate, exponential loss function identified the centile that best quantified the symptom's severity individually. Peak O2 uptake and work rate (% predicted) were used to threshold gradually higher symptom intensity categories. Leg effort‐work rate increased as a function of age; women typically reported higher scores at a given age, particularly in the younger groups (p < 0.05). For instance, “heavy” (5) scores at the 95th centile were reported at ~200 W (<40 years) and ~90 W (≥70 years) in men versus ~130 W and ~70 W in women, respectively. The following categories of leg effort severity were associated with progressively lower exercise capacity: ≤50th (“mild”), >50th to <75th (“moderate”), ≥75th to <95th (“severe”), and ≥ 95th (“very severe”) (p < 0.05). Although most subjects reporting peak scores <5 were in “mild” range, higher scores were not predictive of the other categories (p > 0.05). This novel frame of reference for 0–10 Borg leg effort, which considers its cumulative burden across increasingly higher exercise intensities, might prove valuable to judging symptom's normalcy, quantifying its severity, and assessing the effects of interventions in clinical populations.
Daratumumab treatment in six highly sensitised solid organ transplant recipients: A case series and literature review
Authors: Lemal Richard , Blandin Lucie , Uro‐Coste Charlotte , Philipponnet Carole , Geoffroy Etienne , Heng Anne‐Elisabeth , Garrouste Cyril , Rouzaire Paul
Published: April 2024

We report data on six kidney or heart recipients who were administered daratumumab to treat or prevent antibody‐mediated rejection (ABMR). To date, data are scarce concerning the use of daratumumab in solid organ transplantation and most reports show a decrease in donor‐specific antigen (DSA) levels and an improvement in ABMR using a multiple myeloma daratumumab administration scheme, that is, with sequential systematic administration. Here, we report on the efficacy of daratumumab 1/ in reducing the histological signs of ABMR, 2/ in reducing the ability of DSA to bind to donor cells in vitro through negativation of flow cytometry crossmatching, 3/ in preferentially being directed towards antibodies sharing epitopes, suggesting that daratumumab may specifically target activated plasma cells, 4/ and when administered as a single dose. This last point suggests, for the first time, that, as for rituximab in auto‐immune diseases, the scheme for daratumumab administration could be different for targeting DSA‐producing plasma cells than for tumour cells.
Recruitment of HAB1 and SnRK2.2 by C2‐domain protein CAR1 in plasma membrane ABA signaling
Authors: Guo Ai‐Yu , Wu Wen‐Qiang , Bai Di , Li Yan , Xie Jie , Guo Siyi , Song Chun‐Peng
Published: April 2024

Plasma membrane (PM)‐associated abscisic acid (ABA) signal transduction is an important component of ABA signaling. The C2‐domain ABA‐related (CAR) proteins have been reported to play a crucial role in recruiting ABA receptor PYR1/PYL/RCAR (PYLs) to the PM. However, the molecular details of the involvement of CAR proteins in membrane‐delimited ABA signal transduction remain unclear. For instance, where this response process takes place and whether any additional members besides PYL are taking part in this signaling process. Here, the GUS‐tagged materials for all Arabidopsis CAR members were used to comprehensively visualize the extensive expression patterns of the CAR family genes. Based on the representativeness of CAR1 in response to ABA, we determined to use it as a target to study the function of CAR proteins in PM‐associated ABA signaling. Single‐particle tracking showed that ABA affected the spatiotemporal dynamics of CAR1. The presence of ABA prolonged the dwell time of CAR1 on the membrane and showed faster lateral mobility. Surprisingly, we verified that CAR1 could directly recruit hypersensitive to ABA1 (HAB1) and SNF1‐related protein kinase 2.2 (SnRK2.2) to the PM at both the bulk and single‐molecule levels. Furthermore, PM localization of CAR1 was demonstrated to be related to membrane microdomains. Collectively, our study revealed that CARs recruited the three main components of ABA signaling to the PM to respond positively to ABA. This study deepens our understanding of ABA signal transduction.
Analysis of maternal Fc gamma receptor IIIb isoantibodies using immunomagnetic negative selected neutrophils
Authors: Martins Juliana Oliveira , Moritz Elyse , Abbas Samira Ali , Bayat Behnaz , Barros Melca Maria Oliveira , de Marco Renato , Machado Renata Fantini , Bordin José Orlando
Published: April 2024

Background and Objectives

The isolation of neutrophils and subsequent detection of anti‐human neutrophil antigens (HNA) antibodies are crucial in clinical medicine for the diagnosis of autoimmune neutropenia, neonatal alloimmune neutropenia (NAIN) and transfusion‐related acute lung injury (TRALI). This study reports two cases of maternal anti‐Fc‐gamma‐receptor‐IIIb (FcγRIIIb) isoimmunization without NAIN symptoms and compares the efficiency of immunomagnetic negative selection (IMNS) with traditional dextran/Ficoll for neutrophil isolation in HNA serological assays.

Materials and Methods

Investigating two cases of maternal anti‐FcγRIIIb isoimmunization, neutrophils from three donors were isolated from 8 mL of whole blood using IMNS and dextran/Ficoll. Serological assays included the granulocyte agglutination and immunofluorescence test, monoclonal antibody immobilization of granulocyte antigens and the LABScreen Multi (One Lambda). IMNS and dextran/Ficoll were compared in terms of cell yield, viability, time, cost and purity.

Results

Maternal anti‐FcγRIIIb isoantibodies with FCGR3B gene deletion were detected in both cases. Newborns and fathers exhibited specific gene combinations: FCGR3B*02/FCGR3B*02 (Case 1) and FCGR3B*02/FCGR3B*03 (Case 2). IMNS outperformed dextran/Ficoll, yielding four times more neutrophils (average neutrophil counts: 18.5 × 103/μL vs. 4.5 × 103/μL), efficiently removing non‐neutrophil cells and reducing processing time (30–40 min vs. 70–90 min), although it incurred a higher cost (2.7 times).

Conclusion

Two cases of maternal anti‐FcγRIIIb isoantibodies, unrelated to NAIN, were identified. Although neutropenia has not been described in these cases, we emphasize the importance of identifying asymptomatic cases with the potential for severe neutropenia. Additionally, IMNS is introduced as a rapid, high‐yield, high‐purity neutrophil isolation technique, beneficial for serological assays detecting anti‐HNA antibodies.
Prevalence of canine renal crest hyperattenuation in precontrast computed tomography
Authors: Serra‐Gomez de la Serna Blanca , Schiborra Frederike , Marwood Rachel
Published: April 2024

Normal canine kidneys are relatively homogeneous soft tissue attenuating structures on nonenhanced CT images. However, visible differences in attenuation between the renal crest and medulla are occasionally observed. This finding and its potential clinical implications have not been previously investigated. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of renal crest hyperattenuation (RCH) and investigate possible associations with signalment and laboratory parameters. Abdominal CT studies from 100 dogs, with biochemistry and urinalysis data obtained within 48 h before the CT acquisition, were categorized by two radiologists into those with and without visible RCH. The attenuation in Hounsfield units (HU) of the renal crest and renal medulla were measured. Signalment, biochemical, and urinalysis data were analyzed for associations with RCH. Correlation coefficients were calculated for measured HU and associated continuous parameters. Prevalence of RCH was 42.42% (42/99 dogs, 95% CI, 33–52%). Urinary specific gravity (USG) was significantly different between dogs with and without RCH (P = .034). Weak positive correlations were identified between left and right renal crest attenuation and USG (r = 0.233 and 0.253, respectively; P = .05). Renal crest hyperattenuation is a common finding in dogs undergoing abdominal CT. Although the correlation between the USG and renal crest HU is weak, the dogs with RCH have significantly higher USG. Renal crest hyperattenuation might, therefore, not be associated with renal insufficiency. No other specific associations of RCH were identified with parameters typically altered in a variety of diseases. Further investigation may be warranted for its relevance to specific diseases or if it indeed represents a physiological variant.
Post‐activation potentiation after isometric contractions is strongly related to contraction intensity despite the similar torque–time integral
Authors: Eon Pauline , Jubeau Marc , Cattagni Thomas
Published: April 2024

Post‐activation potentiation (PAP) is defined as an enhanced contractile response of a muscle following its own contractile activity and is influenced by the intensity and duration of the conditioning contraction. The aim of this study was to determine if the combination of intensity and duration, that is, torque–time integral (TTI) is a determinant of PAP amplitude. We compared PAP amplitude following low‐to‐maximal voluntary conditioning contraction intensities with and without similar TTI in the knee extensors. Twelve healthy males completed two experimental sessions. Femoral nerve stimulation was applied to evoke single twitches on the relaxed quadriceps before and after isometric conditioning contractions of knee extensors. In one session, participants performed conditioning contractions without similar TTI (6 s at 100, 80, 60, 40 and 20% maximal voluntary contraction (MVC)), while they performed conditioning contractions with similar TTI in the other session (6 s at 100%, 7.5 s at 80%, 10 s at 60%, 15 s at 40%, and 30 s at 20% MVC). In both sessions, PAP amplitude was related to conditioning contraction intensity. The higher the conditioning contraction intensity with or without similar TTI, the higher PAP. Significant correlations were found (i) between PAP and conditioning contraction intensity with (r2 = 0.70; P < 0.001) or without similar TTI (r2 = 0.64; P < 0.001), and (ii) between PAP with and without similar TTI (r2 = 0.82; P < 0.001). The results provide evidence that TTI has a minor influence on PAP in the knee extensors. This suggests that to optimize the effect of PAP, it is more relevant to control the intensity of the contraction rather than the TTI.
Opportunities for Dunedin’s Mobile Library Service
Authors: Worthington Tessa
Published: April 2024

This project delves into the potential opportunities for Dunedin’s mobile library service, with a focus on emissions and social sustainability. The research is particularly significant for this community, as a comprehensive review of Dunedin's mobile library services and user transport behaviours has not been conducted previously. Employing a mixed-methods and community-based approach, this project involves surveys of current mobile library and city library users to understand their travel behaviours and assess interest in additional mobile library services. Interviews with mobile library managers around Aotearoa also provide insights into the diverse scope of mobile library and outreach services. Subsequent data analysis offers a range of recommendations tailored for the Dunedin City Council and Dunedin Public Libraries, serving as a valuable guide for their future decision-making processes, in line with the Zero Carbon Plan 2030. Beyond the local context, this project includes insights applicable to a broader spectrum of organizations, councils, and communities, contributing to the larger discourse on emissions reduction and sustainable practices. 

Supervised by: Craig Cliff, Ray O’Brien

Scholarship Project Funded by: Dunedin City Council
Planting in Paradise
Authors: Holley Eden , Baynham Andrew
Published: April 2024

The One Billion Trees project is an initiative led by the Ministry of Primary Industries where they aim to plant 1 billion trees by the year 2030 to transform New Zealand forests in a way that improves the productivity of the land, as well as helping the natural environment. Notably, a large proportion of the trees that have already been planted and established are Pinus radiata (exotic pine trees) which have a detrimental effect on the natural environment due to outcompeting native flora and compromising soil stability due to their shallow root systems. P. radiata are a fast establishing and cost effective option for landowners and farmers that are participating in the One Billion Trees project. Our project's aim was to understand what is required to support the establishment of native beech trees, using both on-campus and field trials, with a primary focus on assessing methods of delivering mycorrhizal inoculation to native beech seedlings. This would allow us to educate the Ministry of Primary Industries and to provide these landowners and farmers with information on how to regenerate their land using native trees instead of exotic. The field trial, located within the Motutapu Covenant at Mahu Whenua, incorporated various treatment options, such as planting beech with or without bracken rhizomes, Manuka seeds, Manuka duffpods, and beech duffpods. The on-campus trial was established in a controlled environment where beech and Manuka seeds were planted with or without their respective duffpods. Currently the results of these experiments are inconclusive, requiring additional time to observe the effects of different treatments on the planted seedlings and seeds which will in future contribute to sustainable and effective reforestation practices using native trees.
Project Funded by: The Ministry for Primary Industries and The University of Otago
Experimental study of flake graphite large-area explosion electron emission cathode performance based on particle size discrepancy
Authors: Chen Tingxu , Li Tianming , Yang Liu , Li Hao , Wang Haiyang , Cheng Renjie , Wang Jiaoyin , Zhou Hao , Hu Biao , Fu Hao
Published: April 2024

Graphite is the most commonly used large-area cathode material in the high-power vacuum electron device for its long life and good repetitive-frequency performance, but its particle size selection scheme has not been elucidated. Therefore, in the present work, the explosive electron emission properties of flake graphite large area explosive electron emission cathodes with varied particle sizes are studied. The 320 mesh flake graphite has a current delay reduction of 0.2–0.9 ns compared to other samples at the same peak voltage. According to the Murphy–Good equation, the emission performance of each sample during the priming stage was calculated, and the threshold characteristics of 320 mesh flake graphite were significantly better than the other samples. After the space charge limited current is formed, the plasma expansion rate of all samples is 1.2±0.2cm/μs with a difference not exceeding 4% between samples. Our research provides a strong basis for the selection of raw materials for graphite based large area explosive electron emission cathodes and contributes to the development of cross-field high-power vacuum devices.
Impact of vacuum ultraviolet photons on ultrathin polymethylmethacrylate during plasma etching
Authors: Arvind Shikhar , Larsen Esben W. , Bezard Philippe , Petersen John , De Gendt Stefan
Published: April 2024

State-of-the-art extreme ultraviolet lithography requires the use of ultrathin photoresists (or resists) due to pattern stability concerns and reduced depth of focus of the extreme ultraviolet lithography scanners. Current resists for extreme ultraviolet lithography are less than 50 nm thick. These ultrathin resists further complicate pattern transfer as unintended plasma-induced damage during dry etching is more pronounced. A better understanding of the interaction of plasma species with ultrathin resists is critical for enabling pattern transfer of sub-10 nm features. Here, we study the impact of vacuum ultraviolet photons, argon ions, and argon plasma on a 40 nm thick polymethylmethacrylate film. Using a deuterium lamp, an industrial ion beam etch tool, and an industrial inductively coupled plasma etch tool, we exposed the polymer to photons, ions, and plasma, respectively. The exposed samples were then analyzed for chemical and physical changes using different characterization techniques. It was observed that the vacuum ultraviolet photons interact with the entire bulk of polymer film, while the ions only affect the surface and subsurface region. The photon exposed samples formed smaller polymer fragments at low exposure doses and further started to cross-link at high doses. In contrast, the ion modification leads to carbonization of only the top few nanometers of the polymer film, leaving the bottom bulk intact. The plasma exposed sample showed changes characteristic to both vacuum ultraviolet photons and ions and their synergism. It was stratified with a 1.34 ± 0.03 nm thick ion-caused carbonized layer on top of a 13.25 ± 0.12 nm photon-induced cross-linked layer. By studying the impact of plasma photons on ultrathin polymethylmethacrylate, we were able to establish a baseline for a testing methodology that can be extended to novel ultrathin resist platforms.
Noninvasive virtual biopsy using micro-registered optical coherence tomography (OCT) in human subjects
Authors: Winetraub Yonatan , Van Vleck Aidan , Yuan Edwin , Terem Itamar , Zhao Jinjing , Yu Caroline , Chan Warren , Do Hanh , Shevidi Saba , Mao Maiya , Yu Jacqueline , Hong Megan , Blankenberg Erick , Rieger Kerri E. , Chu Steven , Aasi Sumaira , Sarin Kavita Y. , de la Zerda Adam
Published: April 2024

Histological hematoxylin and eosin–stained (H&E) tissue sections are used as the gold standard for pathologic detection of cancer, tumor margin detection, and disease diagnosis. Producing H&E sections, however, is invasive and time-consuming. While deep learning has shown promise in virtual staining of unstained tissue slides, true virtual biopsy requires staining of images taken from intact tissue. In this work, we developed a micron-accuracy coregistration method [micro-registered optical coherence tomography (OCT)] that can take a two-dimensional (2D) H&E slide and find the exact corresponding section in a 3D OCT image taken from the original fresh tissue. We trained a conditional generative adversarial network using the paired dataset and showed high-fidelity conversion of noninvasive OCT images to virtually stained H&E slices in both 2D and 3D. Applying these trained neural networks to in vivo OCT images should enable physicians to readily incorporate OCT imaging into their clinical practice, reducing the number of unnecessary biopsy procedures.
Conserved switch genes that arose via whole-genome duplication regulate a cannibalistic nematode morph
Authors: Wighard Sara , Witte Hanh , Sommer Ralf J.
Published: April 2024

Experimental genetics in a nematode reveals a key role for developmental plasticity in the evolution of nutritional diversity.
All-solution-processed ultraflexible wearable sensor enabled with universal trilayer structure for organic optoelectronic devices
Authors: Sun Lulu , Wang Jiachen , Matsui Hiroyuki , Lee Shinyoung , Wang Wenqing , Guo Shuyang , Chen Hongting , Fang Kun , Ito Yoshihiro , Inoue Daishi , Hashizume Daisuke , Mori Kazuma , Takakuwa Masahito , Lee Sunghoon , Zhou Yinhua , Yokota Tomoyuki , Fukuda Kenjiro , Someya Takao
Published: April 2024

All-solution-processed organic optoelectronic devices can enable the large-scale manufacture of ultrathin wearable electronics with integrated diverse functions. However, the complex multilayer-stacking device structure of organic optoelectronics poses challenges for scalable production. Here, we establish all-solution processes to fabricate a wearable, self-powered photoplethysmogram (PPG) sensor. We achieve comparable performance and improved stability compared to complex reference devices with evaporated electrodes by using a trilayer device structure applicable to organic photovoltaics, photodetectors, and light-emitting diodes. The PPG sensor array based on all-solution-processed organic light-emitting diodes and photodetectors can be fabricated on a large-area ultrathin substrate to achieve long storage stability. We integrate it with a large-area, all-solution-processed organic solar module to realize a self-powered health monitoring system. We fabricate high-throughput wearable electronic devices with complex functions on large-area ultrathin substrates based on organic optoelectronics. Our findings can advance the high-throughput manufacture of ultrathin electronic devices integrating complex functions.
A water transfer printing method for contact lenses surface 2D MXene modification to resist bacterial infection and inflammation
Authors: Guo Hanwen , Chu Xiaoying , Guo Yishun , Yang Jianhua , Jin Yingying , Zhou Liyang , Peng Yaou , Wang Qingying , Lu Fan , Wang Bailiang
Published: April 2024

Contact lenses (CLs) are prone to adhesion and invasion by pollutants and pathogenic bacteria, leading to infection and inflammatory diseases. However, the functionalization of CL (biological functions such as anti-fouling, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory) and maintaining its transparency still face great challenges. In this work, as a member of the MXenes family, vanadium carbide (V
2
C) is modified onto CL via a water transfer printing method after the formation of a tightly arranged uniform film at the water surface under the action of the Marangoni effect. The coating interface is stable owing to the electrostatic forces. The V
2
C-modified CL (V
2
C@CL) maintains optical clarity while providing good biocompatibility, strong antioxidant properties, and anti-inflammatory activities. In vitro antibacterial experiments indicate that V
2
C@CL shows excellent performance in bacterial anti-adhesion, sterilization, and anti-biofilm formation. Last, V
2
C@CL displays notable advantages of bacteria elimination and inflammation removal in infectious keratitis treatment.
Evolution of groundwater system in the Pearl River Delta and its adjacent shelf since the late Pleistocene
Authors: Sheng Chong , Jiao Jiu Jimmy , Zhang Jinpeng , Yao Yantao , Luo Xin , Yu Shengchao , Ni Yugen , Wang Shidong , Mao Rong , Yang Tao , Zhan Linsen
Published: April 2024

Our extensive field studies demonstrate that saline groundwater inland and freshened groundwater offshore coexist in the same aquifer system in the Pearl River delta and its adjacent shelf. This counterintuitive phenomenon challenges the commonly held assumption that onshore groundwater is typically fresh, while offshore groundwater is saline. To address this knowledge gap, we conduct a series of sophisticated paleo-hydrogeological models to explore the formation mechanism and evolution process of the groundwater system in the inland-shelf systems. Our findings indicate that shelf freshened groundwater has formed during the lowstands since late Pleistocene, while onshore saline groundwater is generated by paleo-seawater intrusion during the Holocene transgression. This reveals that terrestrial and offshore groundwater systems have undergone alternating changes on a geological timescale. The groundwater system exhibits hysteresis responding to paleoclimate changes, with a lag of 7 to 8 thousand years, suggesting that paleoclimatic forcings exert a significantly residual influence on the present-day groundwater system.
Assessing potential drug-drug interactions between clofazimine and other frequently used agents to treat drug-resistant tuberculosis
Authors: Kengo Allan , Nabeemeeah Firdaus , Denti Paolo , Sabet Ryan , Okyere-Manu Gifty , Abraham Pattamukkil , Weisner Lubbe , Mosala Modiehi Helen , Tshabalala Sibongile , Scholefield Janine , Resendiz-Galvan Juan Eduardo , Martinson Neil A. , Variava Ebrahim
Published: April 2024

Clofazimine is included in drug regimens to treat rifampicin/drug-resistant tuberculosis (DR-TB), but there is little information about its interaction with other drugs in DR-TB regimens. We evaluated the pharmacokinetic interaction between clofazimine and isoniazid, linezolid, levofloxacin, and cycloserine, dosed as terizidone. Newly diagnosed adults with DR-TB at Klerksdorp/Tshepong Hospital, South Africa, were started on the then-standard treatment with clofazimine temporarily excluded for the initial 2 weeks. Pharmacokinetic sampling was done immediately before and 3 weeks after starting clofazimine, and drug concentrations were determined using validated liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry assays. The data were interpreted with population pharmacokinetics in NONMEM v7.5.1 to explore the impact of clofazimine co-administration and other relevant covariates on the pharmacokinetics of isoniazid, linezolid, levofloxacin, and cycloserine. Clofazimine, isoniazid, linezolid, levofloxacin, and cycloserine data were available for 16, 27, 21, 21, and 6 participants, respectively. The median age and weight for the full cohort were 39 years and 52 kg, respectively. Clofazimine exposures were in the expected range, and its addition to the regimen did not significantly affect the pharmacokinetics of the other drugs except levofloxacin, for which it caused a 15% reduction in clearance.
A posteriori
power size calculations predicted that our sample sizes had 97%, 90%, and 87% power at
P
< 0.05 to detect a 30% change in clearance of isoniazid, linezolid, and cycloserine, respectively. Although clofazimine increased the area under the curve of levofloxacin by 19%, this is unlikely to be of great clinical significance, and the lack of interaction with other drugs tested is reassuring.
The genomic characterization of three
Microbacterium foliorum
-specific bacteriophages, “Nucci,” “MCubed,” and “QMacho”
Authors: Easterwood Jennifer Cook , Katsanos Joanna Mantis , Lloyd Jenna
Published: April 2024

Nucci, MCubed, and QMacho are microbacteriophages that were isolated from soil samples in Charlotte, NC. They were classified into EA10, EA2, and EB clusters, respectively. Nucci and MCubed each had 63 predicted genes, while QMacho had 73 predicted genes.
Spatiotemporal dynamics of dissolved organic matter in subtropical karst cave waters identified by optical properties
Authors: Dong Hui , Zhou Zhongfa , Zhang Heng , Gong Xiaohuan , Ding Shengjun , Su Dan , Yan Lihui , Xiong Yong
Published: April 2024

Natural dissolved organic matter (DOM) is ubiquitous in aquatic environments and is an essential component in the carbon cycle in karst areas. To improve understanding of the carbon cycle in karst caves with heterogeneous hydrological processes, we examined the spatiotemporal variability of DOM composition and further uncovered its source and fate. Results may also provide insights into the feedbacks of organic carbon to carbon sinks in karst regions. In this study, concentrations and compositions of DOM, partial pressure of aqueous carbon dioxide (pCO2), dissolved inorganic carbon, and other physicochemical parameters were investigated in a karst cave at Mahuang, Southwest China. Ultraviolet-visible absorption spectroscopy was coupled with multiple statistical analyses to identify the compositional variations and potential fates of DOM in cave waters. The results showed that DOM dynamics were regulated by both terrigenous and biogenic drivers under the control of meteorological conditions. With higher air temperature, precipitation, and microbial activity, fulvic fractions were consumed to generate CO2, leading to the accumulation of refractory DOM in cave waters and changing the hydrochemical features. When temperature and precipitation decreased, DOM was dominated by lignin fractions, which served as an indicator of terrestrial inputs and vascular plants, suggesting variation in the preferential fraction of biological consumption. In addition, different hydrological path patterns influenced DOM properties in cave waters due to differences in recharging, the leaching process, and subsurface reworking. Thus, hydrology could serve as an important constraint on the coupling between dissolved organic and inorganic carbon.