bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A cryptic syngameon withinBetulashrubs revealed: Implications for conservation in changing subarctic environments
Authors: Touchette Lyne , Godbout Julie , Lamothe Manuel , Porth Ilga , Isabel Nathalie
Published: April 2024

Arctic and subarctic ecosystems are rapidly transforming due to global warming, emphasizing the need to understand the genetic diversity and adaptive strategies of northern plant species for effective conservation. This study focuses onBetula glandulosa, a native North American tundra shrub known as dwarf birch, which demonstrates an apparent capacity to adapt to changing climate conditions. To address the taxonomic challenges associated with shrub birches and logistical complexities of sampling in the northernmost areas where species' ranges overlap, we adopted a multicriteria approach. Incorporating molecular data, ploidy level assessment and leaf morphology, we aimed to distinguishB. glandulosaindividuals from other shrub birch species sampled. Our results revealed three distinct species and their hybrids within the 537 collected samples, suggesting the existence of a shrub birch syngameon, a reproductive network of interconnected species. Additionally, we identified two discrete genetic clusters within the core species,B. glandulosa, that likely correspond to two different glacial lineages. A comparison between the nuclear and chloroplast SNP data emphasizes a long history of gene exchange between different birch species and genetic clusters. Furthermore, our results highlight the significance of incorporating interfertile congeneric species in conservation strategies and underscores the need for a holistic approach to conservation in the context of climate change, considering the complex dynamics of species interactions. While further research will be needed to describe this shrub birches syngameon and its constituents, this study is a first step in recognizing its existence and disseminating awareness among ecologists and conservation practitioners. This biological phenomenon, which offers evolutionary flexibility and resilience beyond what its constituent species can achieve individually, may have significant ecological implications.
Combined use of radiomics and artificial neural networks for the three‐dimensional automatic segmentation of glioblastoma multiforme
Authors: de los Reyes Alexander Mulet , Lord Victoria Hyde , Buemi Maria Elena , Gandía Daniel , Déniz Luis Gómez , Alemán Maikel Noriega , Suárez Cecilia
Published: April 2024

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most prevalent and aggressive primary brain tumour that has the worst prognosis in adults. Currently, the automatic segmentation of this kind of tumour is being intensively studied. Here, the automatic three‐dimensional segmentation of the GBM is achieved with its related subzones (active tumour, inner necrosis, and peripheral oedema). Preliminary segmentations were first defined based on the four basic magnetic resonance imaging modalities and classic image processing methods (multithreshold Otsu, Chan–Vese active contours, and morphological erosion). After an automatic gap‐filling post processing step, these preliminary segmentations were combined and corrected by a supervised artificial neural network of multilayer perceptron type with a hidden layer of 80 neurons, fed by 30 selected radiomic features of gray intensity and texture. Network classification has an overall accuracy of 83.9%, while the complete combined algorithm achieves average Dice similarity coefficients of 89.3%, 80.7%, 79.7%, and 66.4% for the entire region of interest, active tumour, oedema, and necrosis segmentations, respectively. These values are in the range of the best reported in the present bibliography, but even with better Hausdorff distances and lower computational costs. Results presented here evidence that it is possible to achieve the automatic segmentation of this kind of tumour by traditional radiomics. This has relevant clinical potential at the time of diagnosis, precision radiotherapy planning, or post‐treatment response evaluation.
Shared Placement and Parenting Stress Among Low‐Income Noncustodial Fathers
Authors: Costanzo Molly A. , Kim Yoona , Meyer Daniel R.
Published: April 2024

Objective

We examine the relationship between shared placement and parenting stress for low‐income fathers.

Background

Shared placement (joint physical custody), a living arrangement in which children whose parents live apart spend a significant amount of time living with each, has increased among families in the United States. Little is known about how this placement affects fathers' well‐being, especially fathers with lower incomes and who have had a nonmarital birth.

Method

Our sample included 5,755 noncustodial fathers who enrolled in the National Child Support Noncustodial Parent Employment Demonstration. Using regression approaches, we estimate associations between measures of self‐reported placement and parenting stress.

Results

We found that shared placement was statistically significantly associated with lower parenting stress levels (estimated magnitude of 5%–10%) compared with fathers without shared placement. This held for fathers with equal placement and those with substantial, but not equal, time. These results were consistent when accounting for confounding characteristics, suggesting the association may not be fully explained by selection into shared placement.

Conclusion

Shared placement is associated with lower levels of parenting stress for low‐income noncustodial fathers compared with those fathers without it. We find that this holds true for any shared placement, equal placement, mother primary shared placement, and father primary shared placement.

Implications

Given the potential benefits of shared care, examining whether policy and practice are supporting this for lower resourced families may be particularly important. Fatherhood and other family‐strengthening programs can support fathers in navigating potential stress driven by shared parenting arrangements.
Fillers impacting follicles: the emerging complication of filler‐induced alopecia
Authors: Pulumati Anika , Algarin Yanci , Jaalouk Dana , Latta Steven , Nouri Keyvan
Published: April 2024

Filler‐induced alopecia is a transient alopecia characterized by localized hair loss and often attributed to vascular compromise following dermal filler injections in facial regions. Although an uncommon phenomenon, the rising incidence of filler‐induced alopecia underscores the importance of understanding and managing this condition. We performed an extensive PubMed review of articles reporting filler‐induced alopecia and summarizing the implicated filler types, injection areas, hair loss patterns, symptom onset, course progression, treatments, and prognosis. Hyaluronic acid injections were the most implicated in filler‐induced alopecia cases, with calcium hydroxylapatite and autologous fat less frequently associated. No cases involved other dermal filler types. Although recovery times varied depending on the treatment, hyaluronidase (HAase) injections rapidly restored near‐normal hair density within 3–4 months. Minoxidil and platelet‐rich plasma play a more minor role in restoring hair growth but may be used as adjuncts with HAase to facilitate hair growth. Finally, alternative interventions like intralesional triamcinolone, warm compresses, and nitroglycerin warrant exploration, given limited robust clinical data. Our study promotes awareness of filler‐induced alopecia's rising incidence and offers practical insights and evidence‐based recommendations for effective management. By equipping dermatologists with this knowledge, our aim is to improve patient outcomes and reduce adverse events in filler‐based procedures.
Mimicking the cellular environment does not cause monocyte‐derived macrophages to become phenotypically similar to Kupffer cells
Authors: Elchaninov Andrey , Vishnyakova Polina , Kuznetsova Maria , Lokhonina Anastasiya , Soboleva Anna , Trofimov Dmitry , Fatkhudinov Timur , Sukhikh Gennady
Published: April 2024

Resident macrophages of various mammalian organs are characterized by several distinctive features in their gene expression profile and phenotype, including involvement in the regulation of organ functions, as well as reduced sensitivity to proinflammatory activation factors. The reasons for the formation of such a specific phenotype remain the subject of intensive research. Some papers emphasize the role of the origin of organ macrophages. Other studies indicate that monocytes that develop in the red bone marrow are also able to form resident macrophages with a phenotype characteristic of a particular organ, but this requires appropriate microenvironmental conditions. In this article, we studied the possibility of differentiation of monocyte‐derived macrophages into cells with a Kupffer‐like phenotype under the influence of the main stromal components of Kupffer cells macrophage niche: Ito cells, liver sinusoid endotheliocytes and hepatocyte growth factor (HGF). It was found that Kupffer cells are characterized by several features, including increased expression of transcription factors Spic and Id3, as well as MUP family genes, Clusterin and Ngp genes. In addition, Kupffer cells were characterized by a higher proliferative activity. The expression of marker genes of Kupffer cells (i.e. Id3, Spic, Marco and Timd4) increased in monocyte‐derived macrophages during coculture with Ito cells, liver sinusoid endothelial cells, macrophage colony–stimulating factor and HGF cells only by 3 days. However, the expression level of these genes was always higher in Kupffer cells. In addition, a complete coincidence of the expressed gene profile in monocyte‐derived macrophages and Kupffer cells did not occur even after 3 days of culturing.
RETRACTED: An in‐depth analysis of wound incidence and injury status among professional athletes: A comprehensive review
Authors: Huang Xiaoqi , Wu Yuqing , Li Xin , Zhang Ming , Liu Yixiang
Published: April 2024

This review aims to synthesize current knowledge on the incidence, characteristics and management of wounds and injuries among professional ice hockey athletes, with the specific focus on the emerging population of Chinese female players. An extensive literature search was conducted across several databases to gather data on injury patterns and wounds, causes, severity and prevention strategies in ice hockey. Special attention was given to studies involving female athletes and unique challenges faced by players in developing regions like China. The review also examined the impact of training modalities, protective equipment and medical interventions on injury rates. The findings reveal a significant seasonal fluctuation in wound incidence, with marked reduction following the preseason period. This trend underscores the effectiveness of adjusted training programmes and essential role of medical teams in injury prevention and rehabilitation. Analysis did not show significant difference in wound rates between technical and physical training sessions, suggesting that injuries are pervasive risk across all training activities. Skating, collisions and inadequate warm‐ups were identified as the leading causes of wounds, highlighting areas for targeted preventive measures. The distribution of wounds across various body regions pointed to knee, lower back and wrist as the most vulnerable sites, necessitating focused protection and training adjustments. Ice hockey, particularly among female athletes in China, presents complex injury landscape characterized by the wide range of wounds. The study emphasizes the necessity of comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach to injury prevention that includes training modifications, enhanced protective gear and strategic medical oversight. By addressing the specific causes and patterns of injuries identified, stakeholders can better protect athletes from the inherent risks of the sport, promote safer play and extend career longevity.
The contribution of small heterodimer partner to the occurrence and progression of cholestatic liver injury
Authors: Wei Shizhang , Wang Ruilin , Chen Lisheng , Jing Manyi , Li Haotian , Zheng Ruimao , Zhu Yun , Zhao Yanling
Published: April 2024

Background and Aim

Small heterodimer partner (SHP, encoded by NR0B2) plays an important role in maintaining bile acid homeostasis. The loss of the hepatic farnesoid X receptor (FXR)/SHP signal can cause severe cholestatic liver injury (CLI). FXR and SHP have overlapping and nonoverlapping functions in bile acid homeostasis. However, the key role played by SHP in CLI is unclear.

Methods

In this study, an alpha‐naphthylisothiocyanate (ANIT)‐induced cholestasis mouse model was established. The effect of SHP knockout (SHP‐KO) on liver and ileal pathology was evaluated. 16S rRNA gene sequencing analysis combined with untargeted metabolomics was applied to reveal the involvement of SHP in the pathogenesis of CLI.

Results

The results showed that ANIT (75 mg/kg) induced cholestasis in WT mice. No significant morphological changes were found in the liver and ileal tissue of SHP‐KO mice. However, the serum metabolism and intestinal flora characteristics were significantly changed. Moreover, compared with the WT + ANIT group, the serum levels of ALT and AST in the SHP‐KO + ANIT group were significantly increased, and punctate necrosis in the liver tissue was more obvious. The ileum villi showed obvious shedding, thinning, and shortening. In addition, SHP‐KO‐associated differential intestinal flora and differential biomarkers were significantly associated.

Conclusion

In this study, we elucidated the serum metabolic characteristics and intestinal flora changes related to the aggravation of CLI in SHP‐KO mice induced by ANIT.
Canonical transient receptor potential channels and hypothalamic control of homeostatic functions
Authors: Kelly Martin J. , Wagner Edward J.
Published: April 2024

Recent molecular biological and electrophysiological studies have identified multiple transient receptor potential (TRP) channels in hypothalamic neurons as critical modulators of homeostatic functions. In particular, the canonical transient receptor potential channels (TRPCs) are expressed in hypothalamic neurons that are vital for the control of fertility and energy homeostasis. Classical neurotransmitters such as serotonin and glutamate and peptide neurotransmitters such as kisspeptin, neurokinin B and pituitary adenylyl cyclase‐activating polypeptide signal through their cognate G protein‐coupled receptors to activate TPRC 4, 5 channels, which are essentially ligand‐gated calcium channels. In addition to neurotransmitters, circulating hormones like insulin and leptin signal through insulin receptor (InsR) and leptin receptor (LRb), respectively, to activate TRPC 5 channels in hypothalamic arcuate nucleus pro‐opiomelanocortin (POMC) and kisspeptin (arcuate Kiss1 [Kiss1ARH]) neurons to have profound physiological (excitatory) effects. Besides its overt depolarizing effects, TRPC channels conduct calcium ions into the cytoplasm, which has a plethora of downstream effects. Moreover, not only the expression of Trpc5 mRNA but also the coupling of receptors to TRPC 5 channel opening are regulated in different physiological states. In particular, the mRNA expression of Trpc5 is highly regulated in kisspeptin neurons by circulating estrogens, which ultimately dictates the firing pattern of kisspeptin neurons. In obesity states, InsRs are “uncoupled” from opening TRPC 5 channels in POMC neurons, rendering them less excitable. Therefore, in this review, we will focus on the critical role of TRPC 5 channels in regulating the excitability of Kiss1ARH and POMC neurons in different physiological and pathological states.
Incidence, prevalence, and medical costs of pressure injuries in Taiwan from 2001 to 2015: Results of a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Tai Chia‐Hui , Wang Jen‐Hung , Lo Shu‐Fen , Tsay Shwu‐Feng , Yang Chao‐Chih , O Yang An‐Chi , Chung Hui‐Chun
Published: April 2024

Aims and Objectives

This study aims to analyse the trends in the incidence, prevalence and medical costs of pressure injuries (PIs) among genders in Taiwan.

Background

The treatment of PIs is complex and costly, often leading to complications and increased mortality. This issue significantly impacts healthcare quality and incurs substantial medical and social costs, warranting attention.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was conducted using data from Taiwan's National Health Insurance Database to obtain and calculate the incidence, prevalence, and medical costs of PIs in the country between 2001 and 2015 as well as to analyse high‐risk groups and the medical care utilisation of patients following the STROBE reporting guidelines.

Results

Between 2001 and 2015, 15,327 incident case of PIs were diagnosed. During the study period, the prevalence rate of PIs per 100,000 population rose from 26.3 to 189.6, with approximately 11.5%–16.3% of patients undergoing surgical debridement. The PIs prevalence rate increased by 7.2‐fold, and hospitalisation costs accounted for 91.7%–96.0% of the total medical costs. Patients with older age, comorbidities, poorer financial status and lower education levels were found to be likely to develop PIs. These predisposing factors differed between males and females. The prevalence of PIs was higher in patients ≥75 years old than in patients from other age groups. Moreover, PI‐related medical expenses have been increasing annually.

Conclusions

In Taiwan, the rising incidence of PIs is driving up medical costs. Effective care and prevention of PIs necessitate a comprehensive plan from the entire healthcare system.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

This research fills a gap in the available data on the incidence, prevalence, and medical costs of PIs in Taiwan and Asia.

Patient or Public Contribution

The findings can be used to help develop clinical guidelines for preventive education and treatment of PIs.
Effect of anti‐thyroid antibodies on recurrent miscarriage: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Song Hongyan , Cui Tianwei , Shi Shaoqi , Xiao Huidongzi , Wei Aiwu
Published: April 2024

Setting

Previous studies addressed the association between anti‐thyroid antibodies and recurrent miscarriage (RM), however, the role of anti‐thyroid antibodies in RM patients is debatable.

Objectives

Therefore, we conducted this meta‐analysis and the aim of this current study was to assess whether anti‐thyroid peroxidase (anti‐TPO) and/or anti‐thyroglobulin (anti‐TG) antibody positivity was associated with RM.

Design

A meta‐analysis was conducted.

Participants

Recurrent miscarriage patients.

Methods

STATA 12.0 software were applied to compute odds ratios (ORs)/relative risks (RRs) and 95% CIs regarding association between anti‐TPO and anti‐TG antibodies and the prevalence of RM.

Results

N = 28 studies (8875 participants) explored effect of anti‐thyroid antibodies on RM. Analysis of the 28 studies revealed significant association between anti‐TPO, anti‐TG antibodies and the prevalence of RM with a random effects model (OR/RR = 2.02; 95% CI: 1.63–2.51, p < 0.001; I2 = 44.3%, p value for Q test = 0.004). Analysis of the 20 studies revealed significant association between anti‐TPO antibodies and the prevalence of RM with a random effects model (OR/RR = 1.59; 95% CI: 1.25–2.03, p < 0.001; I2 = 43.1%, p value for Q test = 0.022). Analysis of the 14 studies revealed significant association between anti‐TG antibodies and the prevalence of RM with a random effects model (OR/RR = 2.25; 95% CI: 1.56–3.23, p < 0.001; I2 = 49.2%, p value for Q test = 0.019).

Conclusions

Based on the currently available analysis, our findings suggest that women with anti‐TPO and/or anti‐TG antibodies have a higher risk of RM than that in negative antibody women. Further investigation is needed to better clarify the exact role of the anti‐thyroid antibodies in RM and whether treatment is of benefit.

Limitations

First, differences from various detection methods and reagents used in different studies may affect the diagnostic interpretation of anti‐thyroid antibodies, which might influence the accuracy of this meta‐analysis. Second, positive anti‐thyroid antibodies seem likely to be part of a more general disorder of maternal immune system, due to restrictions of funding and condition, a complete autoantibody screening investigation is hardly to conduct in all participants, and this could be a possible limitation of all included studies. Third, there is no mention of thyroxine therapy on RM, making the meta‐analysis even more limited.
The role of inefficiency in a productivity puzzle: Regional evidence for Great Britain
Authors: Glass Anthony J. , Kenjegalieva Karligash
Published: April 2024

From around the 2008 crisis there has been a marked slowdown in UK productivity. This has been referred to as a productivity puzzle as there is no consensus on the key explanations for this slowdown. Using data for all the 168 International Territorial Level 3 areas in Great Britain (2004–2020), we make two empirical contributions to the literature on this puzzle. First, we are the first to analyze this productivity puzzle using a stochastic frontier model to account for technical inefficiency. Second, to aid policymakers we uncover the areas that represent spatial total factor productivity (TFP) growth hubs, spokes, leaders and followers. Of the components of TFP growth (growth rates of technical change, returns to scale and efficiency), we find that Britain's productivity slowdown can be more specifically described as a rise in inefficiency.
Bridging the gap between healthcare sectors: Facilitating the transition from NICU to the municipality and home for families with premature infants
Authors: Petersen Mette , Nordlund Helle Lerche , Koreska Mai , Brødsgaard Anne
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The transition from hospital to home can be challenging for parents of prematurely born infants. The aim of this ethnographic study was to describe a multidisciplinary and cross‐sectoral discharge conference for families with premature infants transitioning from a neonatal intensive care unit to municipal healthcare services.

Design and Methods

An ethnographically/anthropologically inspired qualitative design was adopted. We conducted four participant observations of multidisciplinary and cross‐sectoral discharge conferences and 12 semistructured interviews with four neonatologists, four nurses, and four health visitors who had attended one of the conferences. Salient themes were generated by two‐part analysis consisting of a thematic analysis followed by Turner's ritual analysis.

Results

This study illustrated how multidisciplinary and cross‐sectoral discharge conferences improved the quality of care for premature infants and their families in their transition process which was perceived as complex. These conferences contributed to promoting a sense of coherence and continuity of care. The healthcare professionals experienced that this event may be characterized as a ritual, which created structures that promoted cross‐sectoral cooperation and communication while increasing interdisciplinary knowledge sharing. Thus, the conferences triggered a sense that the participants were building bridges to unite healthcare sectors, ensuring a holistic and coordinated approach to meet the unique needs of the infants and their families.

Implications for Practice

This study presented a unique holistic and family‐centered approach to constructing multidisciplinary and cross‐sectoral discharge conferences that seemed to underpin the quality of interdisciplinary and health‐related knowledge sharing and establish a crucial starting point for early interventions, preventive measures, and health‐promoting efforts. Hopefully, our findings will encourage others to rethink the discharge conference as a transitional ritual that may potentially bridge the gap between healthcare sectors. Specifically, our findings contribute to the mounting body of knowledge of family‐centered care by showing how healthcare professionals may—in a meaningful and tangible manner—operate, develop, and implement this somewhat elusive theoretical foundation in their clinical practice.
Peroxidase gene TaPrx109‐B1 enhances wheat tolerance to water deficit via modulating stomatal density
Authors: Jiao Yanqing , Lv Weizeng , Teng Wan , Li Le , Lan Haibin , Bai Lu , Li Zongzhen , Lian Yanhao , Wang Zhiqiang , Xin Zeyu , Ren Yongzhe , Lin Tongbao
Published: April 2024

Increasing the tolerance of crops to water deficit is crucial for the improvement of crop production in water‐restricted regions. Here, a wheat peroxidase gene (TaPrx109‐B1) belonging to the class III peroxidase gene family was identified and its function in water deficit tolerance was revealed. We demonstrated that overexpression of TaPrx109‐B1 reduced leaf H2O2 level and stomatal density, increased leaf relative water content, water use efficiency, and tolerance to water deficit. The expression of TaEPF1 and TaEPF2, two key negative regulators of stomatal development, were significantly upregulated in TaPrx109‐B1 overexpression lines. Furthermore, exogenous H2O2 downregulated the expression of TaEPF1 and TaEPF2 and increased stomatal density, while exogenous application of diphenyleneiodonium chloride, a potent NADPH oxidase inhibitor that repressed the synthesis of H2O2, upregulated the expression of TaEPF1 and TaEPF2, decreased stomatal density, and enhanced wheat tolerance to water deficit. These findings suggest that TaPrx109‐B1 influences leaf stomatal density by modulation of H2O2 level and the expression of TaEPF1 and TaEPF2. The results of the field trial showed that overexpressing TaPrx109‐B1 increased grain number per spike, which reduced the yield loss caused by water deficiency. Therefore, TaPrx109‐B1 has great potential in breeding wheat varieties with improved water deficit tolerance.
A cultural theory of the culture wars
Authors: Swedlow Brendon , Ripberger Joseph T. , Yuan Meng
Published: April 2024

We provide the first account of the culture wars in the political psychology and public opinion literature based on a theory of culture. Using innovative measures of grid‐group cultural theory (CT), we identify the cultures associated with ideological and partisan identifications in annual U.S. national surveys from 2011 to 2022, a unique data set of 24,870 respondents. As hypothesized, we find that the culture wars occur not just between ideologues and partisans but among them as they draw support from distinct, relatively stable yet shifting cultural coalitions. Egalitarian and, less often, fatalistic liberals and Democrats battle against individualistic and, less often, hierarchical, conservatives and Republicans. As hypothesized, fatalists are the least reliable coalition partners, and, as expected, they gravitate Republican and conservative in 2017, after Trump's election. However, fatalists who are strong partisan identifiers never defect. Moreover, our hypothesis that fatalist attraction to Trump would drive defections in their political identification is largely invalidated. Instead, fatalists mostly flee Trump in our aggregate analysis as well as in subanalyses of strong and weak ideological and partisan identifiers. In 2016 and 2018–2022, it appears that independent fatalists cause fatalists to gravitate liberal and Democrat. Unexpectedly, hierarchists also go liberal and Democrat in 2022, in apparent reaction to Trump's multifront attacks on the 2020 election that he lost. We identify the basis for cultural coalitions that can end particular culture wars, including the most significant one now occurring between egalitarians and individualists, and conclude with suggestions for further research.
Reward positivity affects temporal interval production in a continuous timing task
Authors: Yan Yan , Hunt Laurence T. , Hassall Cameron D.
Published: April 2024

The neural circuits of reward processing and interval timing (including the perception and production of temporal intervals) are functionally intertwined, suggesting that it might be possible for momentary reward processing to influence subsequent timing behavior. Previous animal and human studies have mainly focused on the effect of reward on interval perception, whereas its impact on interval production is less clear. In this study, we examined whether feedback, as an example of performance‐contingent reward, biases interval production. We recorded EEG from 20 participants while they engaged in a continuous drumming task with different realistic tempos (1728 trials per participant). Participants received color‐coded feedback after each beat about whether they were correct (on time) or incorrect (early or late). Regression‐based EEG analysis was used to unmix the rapid occurrence of a feedback response called the reward positivity (RewP), which is traditionally observed in more slow‐paced tasks. Using linear mixed modeling, we found that RewP amplitude predicted timing behavior for the upcoming beat. This performance‐biasing effect of the RewP was interpreted as reflecting the impact of fluctuations in reward‐related anterior cingulate cortex activity on timing, and the necessity of continuous paradigms to make such observations was highlighted.
On homology planes and contractible 4‐manifolds
Authors: Aguilar Rodolfo Aguilar , Şavk Oğuz
Published: April 2024

We call a non‐trivial homology sphere a Kirby–Ramanujam sphere if it bounds both a homology plane and a Mazur or Poénaru manifold. In 1980, Kirby found the first example by proving that the boundary of the Ramanujam surface bounds a Mazur manifold and it has remained a single example since then. By tracing their initial step, we provide the first additional examples and we present three infinite families of Kirby–Ramanujam spheres. Also, we show that one of our families of Kirby–Ramanujam spheres is diffeomorphic to the splice of two certain families of Brieskorn spheres. Since this family of Kirby–Ramanujam spheres bound contractible 4‐manifolds, they lie in the class of the trivial element in the homology cobordism group; however, both splice components are separately linearly independent in that group.
Enhancing the Mobility of Small-Scale Robots Via Nonlinear Structural Springs Exhibiting Negative Stiffness
Authors: Zhang Yujia , Shen Jiajia , Yan Yao , Tong Jingzhong , Zhang Lei , Liu Yang
Published: April 2024

Compared to traditional robotic systems, small-scale robots, ranging from several millimeters to micrometres in size, are capable of reaching narrower and vulnerable regions with minimal damage. However, conventional small-scale robots’ limited maneuverability and controlability hinder their ability to effectively navigate in the intricate environments, such as the gastrointestinal tract. Self-propelled capsule robots driven by vibrations and impacts emerge as a promising solution, holding the potentials to enhance diagnostic accuracy, enable targeted drug delivery, and alleviate patient discomfort during gastrointestinal endoscopic procedures. This paper builds upon our previous work on self-propelled capsule robots, exploring the potential of nonlinear connecting springs to enhance its propulsion capabilities. Leveraging a mathematical model for self-propelling robots with a von Mises truss spring, which is verified using a finite element model, we investigate the effects of negative stiffness and snap-back within the nonlinear structural spring on the robots’ propelling speed. Our analysis reveals that the negative stiffness of the von Mises truss can significantly reduce the sensitivity of the propelling speed to excitation frequency. As a result, the capsule robot exhibits a remarkably wider operational band where it maintains a high average propelling speed, surpassing its linear counterpart. This work sheds light on the potential for developing customized nonlinear structural systems for diverse scenarios in small-scale robot applications, opening up new possibilities for enhanced functionality and maneuverability in various biomedical applications.
CCR2-dependent CX3CR1+ colonic macrophages promote
Enterococcus faecalis
dissemination
Authors: Jennings Kevin C. , Johnson Kaitlin E. , Hayward Michael A. , Kristich Christopher J. , Salzman Nita H.
Published: April 2024

Enterococci are common commensal bacteria that colonize the gastrointestinal tracts of most mammals, including humans. Importantly, these bacteria are one of the leading causes of nosocomial infections. This study examined the role of colonic macrophages in facilitating
Enterococcus faecalis
infections in mice. We determined that depletion of colonic phagocytes resulted in the reduction of
E. faecalis
dissemination to the gut-draining mesenteric lymph nodes. Furthermore, we established that trafficking of monocyte-derived CX3CR1-expressing macrophages contributed to
E. faecalis
dissemination in a manner that was not reliant on CCR7, the conventional receptor involved in lymphatic migration. Finally, we showed that
E. faecalis
mutants with impaired intracellular survival exhibited reduced dissemination, suggesting that
E. faecalis
can exploit host immune cell migration to disseminate systemically and cause disease. Our findings indicate that modulation of macrophage trafficking in the context of antibiotic therapy could serve as a novel approach for preventing or treating opportunistic infections by disseminating enteric pathobionts like
E. faecalis
.
Recycling of Paleo-Tethyan oceanic crust: Geochemical record from Early–Middle Triassic igneous rocks in the East Kunlun Orogen in western China
Authors: Hu Ye-Dan , Ma Li-Tao , Dai Li-Qun , Zhao Zi-Fu , Sun Guo-Chao , Gong Bing
Published: April 2024

Deciphering the contribution of crustal materials to generation of mafic arc igneous rocks at different subduction stages is of great significance to unravel the fate of the subducted paleo-oceanic crust. Here we present an integrated geochemical study on two types of early Mesozoic mafic arc igneous rocks from the East Kunlun Orogen. Zircon U-Pb isotopic analyses yield ages of 252–248 Ma for lamprophyres and 239–238 Ma for diorite porphyries. All the samples display arc-like trace element distribution patterns, high zircon δ18O values, and variably low zircon εHf(t) values. However, significant geochemical distinctions exist in terms of trace element concentrations, radiogenic isotopes, and other geochemical variations between them. The Early Triassic lamprophyres are characterized by significant enrichment in fluid-mobile trace elements and weakly enriched whole-rock Sr-Nd-Hf isotopes, whereas the Middle Triassic diorite porphyries show high contents of light rare earth elements, Th, Zr, and Hf, and more enriched Sr-Nd-Hf isotopes. Furthermore, the lamprophyres exhibit remarkably higher ratios of Ba/Th, Ba/La, K/La, and Sr/Nd and slightly higher ratios of La/Sm, Th/Yb, and Th/La than mid-oceanic-ridge basalt (MORB), while the diorite porphyries display higher La/Sm, Th/Yb, Th/Nd, and Th/La ratios compared to normal MORB but closer to those of seafloor sediments. Taken together, these differences can be attributed to the incorporation of two distinct slab liquids into their mantle sources, including oceanic slab-derived aqueous solutions and minor sediment-derived hydrous melts for the formation of the lamprophyres, and sediment-derived hydrous melts for the formation of the diorite porphyries. As a result, we suggest the lamprophyres were generated during the Early Triassic subduction of the Paleo-Tethyan oceanic crust, while the diorite porphyries may be generated due to rollback of the subducting oceanic slab in response to the closure of the Paleo-Tethyan Ocean basin. Therefore, the studied Early–Middle Triassic mafic igneous rocks provide important evidence for the recycling of the Paleo-Tethyan oceanic slab at different stages.
Stability of porphyrins and porphyrin precursors in urine and plasma samples: implications for sample handling and storage
Authors: Gallagher Claire J , Bentley Lucy-Anne , Challenger Rhiannon , Jones Martyn , Schulenburg-Brand Danja
Published: April 2024

The porphyrias are rare disorders of haem biosynthesis. Diagnosis requires demonstrating increased porphyrins or porphyrin precursors in blood, urine and faeces. Patients may only be investigated once, and therefore, understanding the preanalytical factors affecting the reliability of results is crucial. Guidance for sample handling exists, but published evidence regarding the stability of porphyrins and their precursors is limited. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of light exposure and different storage temperatures on analyte stability for measurement of urinary aminolaevulinic acid and porphobilinogen, total urine porphyrin and plasma porphyrin. Our results confirm that all samples should be protected from light. Results from samples exposed to light for greater than 4 hours should be interpreted with caution and repeat samples requested. If transported to a specialist laboratory, samples should be stored at 4°C before transport. Transit time at ambient temperatures should be less than 24 hours.
Foot surgery for adults with Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease
Authors: Laurá Matilde , Barnett James , Benfield Joanna , Ramdharry Gita M , Welck Matthew J
Published: April 2024

People with Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT) disease often undergo foot and ankle surgery, as foot deformities are common and cause a degree of functional limitations impairing quality of life. Surgical approaches are variable and there are no evidence-based guidelines. A multidisciplinary approach involving neurology, physical therapy and orthopaedic surgery is ideal to provide guidance on when to refer for surgical opinion and when to intervene. This review outlines the range of foot deformities associated with CMT, their clinical assessment, and their conservative and surgical and postoperative management.
Environmental pollutants exposure-derived extracellular vesicles: crucial players in respiratory disorders
Authors: Shen Haoran , Zheng Rui , Du Mulong , Christiani David C
Published: April 2024

Background

Individual exposure to environmental pollutants, as one of the most influential drivers of respiratory disorders, has received considerable attention due to its preventability and controllability. Considering that the extracellular vesicle (EV) was an emerging intercellular communication medium, recent studies have highlighted the crucial role of environmental pollutants derived EVs (EPE-EVs) in respiratory disorders.

Methods

PubMed and Web of Science were searched from January 2018 to December 2023 for publications with key words of environmental pollutants, respiratory disorders and EVs.

Results

Environmental pollutants could disrupt airway intercellular communication by indirectly stimulating airway barrier cells to secrete endogenous EVs, or directly transmitting exogenous EVs, mainly by biological pollutants. Mechanistically, EPE-EVs transferred specific contents to modulate biological functions of recipient cells, to induce respiratory inflammation and impair tissue and immune function, which consequently contributed to the development of respiratory diseases, such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, pulmonary fibrosis, pulmonary hypertension, lung cancer and infectious lung diseases. Clinically, EVs could emerged as promising biomarkers and biological agents for respiratory diseases attributed by their specificity, convenience, sensibility and stability.

Conclusions

Further studies of EPE-EVs are helpful to understand the aetiology and pathology of respiratory diseases, and facilitate the precision respiratory medicine in risk screening, early diagnosis, clinical management and biotherapy.
Habitat use of anadromous and amphidromous sturgeons in North America: a systematic review
Authors: Gilligan-Lunda Erin K. , Duarte Adam , Peterson James T.
Published: April 2024

Sturgeons are among the most endangered fishes in the world. Identifying habitat use characteristics to inform restoration projects is crucial for recovery. However, small sample sizes, inadequate replication of studies, and limited spatial extents complicate our ability to effectively apply the findings of single studies to endangered species conservation across the larger riverscape. We synthesized information from amphidromous and anadromous sturgeons in North America to identify species-specific knowledge gaps and conduct a quantitative comparison of species–habitat relationships. We provided a qualitative summary of substrate use and synthesized estimates of depth and velocity during spawning and non-spawning activity. Generalized patterns among species were identified, such as spawning in fast water on hard substrate and then using slow water with soft substrate areas when not spawning. We noted species-specific variability during spawning that may be attributed to historical maximum length, egg characteristics, and watershed features. This study provides some of the first estimates of habitat use that can be adapted for many populations. Results can contribute to empirically grounded decision-support tools used to prioritize information needs for recovery.
Role of humidity and surface roughness on direct wafer bonding
Authors: Persson B. N. J. , Mate C. Mathew
Published: April 2024

Bodies made from elastically stiff material usually bind very weakly unless the surfaces are flat and extremely smooth. In direct wafer bonding flat surfaces bind by capillary bridges and by the van der Waals interaction, which act between all solid objects. Here we study the dependency of the work of adhesion on the humidity and surface roughness in hydrophilic direct wafer bonding. We show that the long-wavelength roughness (usually denoted waviness) has a negligible influence on the strength of wafer bonding (the work of adhesion) from the menisci that form from capillary condensation of water vapor.

Graphic abstract

AFM surface topography for Si(100) wafer
Constraints on Einstein-dilaton Gauss-Bonnet gravity with Taiji
Authors: Luo Weilong , Liu Chang , Guo Zong-Kuan
Published: April 2024

In the 2030s, space-based gravitational-wave (GW) detectors will exhibit unprecedented sensitivity in the millihertz frequency band, greatly expanding the potential for testing theories of gravity compared to ground-based GW detectors. Inspired by effective string theory, Einstein-dilaton Gauss–Bonnet (EdGB) gravity introduces an extra dilaton scalar field that is directly coupled to higher curvature terms. Here, we investigate the capability of Taiji to constrain the parameters of EdGB gravity by analyzing GWs from massive black hole binaries (MBHBs). We utilize the parameterized post-Einsteinian (ppE) waveform with the leading order EdGB corrections for the inspiral phase of MBHBs. The constraints on the coupling constants are obtained by performing Fisher matrix analysis. With different mass ratios and spins$$\chi _i$$χiat redshifts$$z=2,3,4,5$$z=2,3,4,5, the$$1\sigma $$1σbounds on the parameter$$\alpha $$αhave the same order of magnitude:$$\sqrt{\alpha }\sim 10^7$$α∼107m.
SUPERHYDROPHOBIC ALL-CELLULOSE COMPOSITE VIA HEXADECYLTRIMETHOXYSILANE AND HDTMS/SILICA
Authors: NOR SAMIHAH SALWA MD , SALLEH MOKHTAR MAT
Published: April 2024

All-cellulose composite (ACC) is a novel single polymer composite (SPC) that consists of cellulose for both reinforcing fiber and matrix phases. ACC has good mechanical, thermal, and optical properties due to compatibility of reinforcing fiber and matrix phases. However, abundant hydroxyl (OH) groups in the cellulose structures resulted in higher hydrophilicity of ACC, thus limiting the potential use in outdoor applications. In this study, ACC was fabricated using solvent infusion processing (SIP) from rayon textile with sodium hydroxide (NaOH)/urea solution to partially dissolve the cellulose fibers, followed by regeneration and drying processes. Subsequently, ACC was treated using two different coating solutions: (i) hexadecyltrimethoxysilane (HDTMS) and (ii) HDTMS/SiO2 (silica). As a result, an efficient water repellency for HDTMS/SiO2-treated ACC was observed, showing a water contact angle of 159.3∘, as compared to HDTMS-treated ACC with a water contact angle of 144.1∘. However, a slightly higher water absorption of 52% was observed for HDTMS/SiO2-treated ACC, as compared to only 44% for HDTMS-treated ACC. Both treated ACCs showed smooth and homogeneous structures upon completion of the treatment.
Capacity-Aware Wash Optimization with Dynamic Fluid Scheduling and Channel Storage for Continuous-Flow Microfluidic Biochips
Authors: Chen Zhisheng , Hu Xu , Guo Wenzhong , Liu Genggeng , Wang Jiaxuan , Ho Tsungyi , Huang Xing
Published: April 2024

Continuous-flow microfluidic biochips are gaining increasing attention with promising applications for automatically executing various laboratory procedures in biology and biochemistry. Biochips with distributed channel-storage architectures enable each channel to switch between the roles of transportation and storage. Consequently, fluid transportation, caching, and fetch can occur concurrently through different flow paths. When two dissimilar types of fluidic flows occur through the same channels in a time-interleaved manner, it may cause contamination to the latter as some residues of the former flow may be stuck at the channel wall during transportation. To remove the residues, wash operations are introduced as an essential step to avoid incorrect assay outcomes. However, existing work has been considered that the washing capacity of a buffer fluid is unlimited. In the actual scenario, a fixed-volume buffer fluid irrefutably possesses a limited washing capacity, which can be successively consumed while washing away residues from the channels. Hence, capacity-aware wash scheme is a basic requirement to fulfil the dynamic fluid scheduling and channel storage. In this paper, we formulate a practical wash optimization problem for microfluidic biochips, which considers the requirements of dynamic fluid scheduling, channel storage, as well as washing capacity constraints of buffer fluids simultaneously, and present an efficient design flow to solve this problem systematically. Given the high-level synthesis result of a biochemical application and the corresponding component placement solution, our goal is to complete a contamination-aware flow-path planning with short flow-channel length. Meanwhile, the biochemical application can be executed efficiently and correctly with an optimized capacity-aware wash scheme. Experimental results show that compared to a state-of-the-art washing method, the proposed method achieves an average reduction of 26.1%, 43.1%, and 34.1% across all the benchmarks with respect to the total channel length, total wash time, and execution time of bioassays, respectively.
A Novel Synthesis of Nickel Carbide Modified Glassy Carbon Electrode for Electrochemical Investigation of Archetypal Diabetes Biomarker in Human Serum and Urine Samples
Authors: Kogularasu Sakthivel , Lee Yen-Yi , Chang-Chien Guo-Ping , Chen Pin-Yi , Govindasamy Mani
Published: April 2024

We began with an exploration of a novel method for non-enzymatic glucose sensing through the direct electrochemical oxidation process using an annealed Nickel carbide (Ni3C) modified glassy carbon electrode (GCE). We cover the synthesis and detailed characterization of Ni3C, the modification process of the electrode, and its application in the electrocatalytic detection of glucose in human blood and urine samples. Ni3C, known for its high charge transfer efficiency, exceptional stability in harsh environments, and outstanding electrochemical activity, was prepared through an annealing method. The produced Ni3C, characterized by a nanoplate structure ranging from 20 to 50 nanometers, was applied to a GCE to benefit from its extensive surface area and structural robustness. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and cyclic voltammetry confirmed the superior electrocatalytic properties and charge transfer capabilities of Ni3C/GCE over the unmodified GCE. The glucose detection was achieved by the direct electrochemical oxidation of glucose on the modified electrode, showcasing a linear detection range from 0.05 to 2236 μM and an impressively low detection limit of 0.0186 μM. This research underscores the effectiveness of Ni3C/GCE as durable, efficient, and reliable tools for the non-enzymatic electrochemical sensing of glucose, providing new prospects for diabetes monitoring.