bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of combined treatment including Litsea cubeba essential oil and wood smoke on Aspergillus niger development and consumer acceptability of dried catfish (Ariidae)
Authors: Sinthupachee Apiram , Koomhin Phanit , Matan Nirundorn , Matan Narumol
Published: June 2022

Dried fish exports generate massive revenue. These exports are in highest demand in the world market. However, dried fish can quickly become spoiled by mould. This creates foul odours that may affect consumer acceptance. Dried fish requires natural antimicrobial agents to improve shelf life. This study aimed to control mould growth and improve the organoleptic properties of dried fish using Litsea cubeba oil vapour in combination with wood smoke. In addition, to understand consumer acceptability, the treated dried fish was used to test consumer brain responses using electroencephalography (EEG). The participants who were able to eat dried fish preferred smoked food and had no history of allergies to dried fish, and essential oils were selected for this test. The combined treatment of the L. cubeba oil vapour at ≥60 μL and smoke for 30 s completely controlled the growth of A. niger at least 6 Log10 CFU g−1 and extended the shelf life of dried fish to 7 days at 30 ± 2 °C compared with the control (3 days). The panellists preferred the dried fish treated with the combined treatment more than the untreated fish (P < 0.05). The consumption (smelling, eating and swallowing) of the treated fish by the participants increased the alpha wave activity in their brains to increase the activation of the neural circuits for attention, working memory, active stage and sensory‐motor integration. These findings can be helpful for smoke‐dried fish product development and dried fish preservation.
Acrylamide: impact of precursors concentration, origin, post‐harvesting process and roasting level in high‐quality arabica and Robusta coffee
Authors: Vezzulli Fosca , Triachini Sara , Mulazzi Annalisa , Lambri Milena , Bertuzzi Terenzio
Published: June 2022

Origin of coffee, precursors concentration, post‐harvesting processes and commercial roasting degrees were evaluated for their impact on acrylamide content in roasted coffee. Forty Seven Specialty Arabica and 7 high‐quality Robusta green coffee samples were analysed to determine sugars, asparagine and Aw. Acrylamide was quantified on light, medium and dark roasted samples. In green coffee, glucose and fructose content resulted lower after wet and honey processes, no remarkable differences were found for sucrose and asparagine. In all samples, the content of asparagine was generally lower than what provided in previous works. Acrylamide concentration never exceeded the limit of 400 μg kg−1 in Arabica samples and it does once in Robusta, it peaked between light and medium roasting, and it was higher in Robusta. Moreover, it was lower in honey coffee than in others. Acrylamide correlated with asparagine in Robusta, while with monosaccharides and Aw in dry and honey Arabica. Coffee Origin impacted on precursors and acrylamide.
Comparison of perioperative outcomes among patients with exophytic, mesophytic, and endophytic renal tumors undergoing robot‐assisted partial nephrectomy
Authors: Motoyama Daisuke , Ito Toshiki , Sugiyama Takayuki , Otsuka Atsushi , Miyake Hideaki
Published: June 2022

Objectives

It has been well documented that partial nephrectomy for completely endophytic renal tumors is a highly challenging procedure accompanied by several technical difficulties even with the assistance of a robotic surgical system. This study aimed to compare perioperative variables among patients with exophytic, mesophytic, and endophytic renal tumors undergoing robot‐assisted partial nephrectomy.

Methods

This study retrospectively included 265 consecutive patients with localized small renal masses undergoing robot‐assisted partial nephrectomy at our institution. In this study, completely endophytic tumor was defined as the mass totally covered by renal healthy parenchyma, and according to the points for the ‘E' domain of RENAL nephrometry score based on preoperative computed tomography, subjects were classified into three groups as follows: exophytic, mesophytic, and endophytic tumor groups, and perioperative outcomes among these groups were compared.

Results

Of 265 patients, 127, 112, and 26 were classified into the exophytic, mesophytic, and endophytic tumor groups, respectively. A significantly smaller tumor diameter was observed in the endophytic group than in the other groups (P < 0.001), whereas the RENAL nephrometry score was significantly higher (P < 0.001). In addition, the warm ischemia time in the endophytic tumor group was significantly longer than that in other groups (P = 0.009); however, no significant difference in the trifecta achievement was noted among the three groups.

Conclusions

This study suggests that robot‐assisted partial nephrectomy for patients with completely endophytic tumors can be regarded as a feasible approach without marked impairment of perioperative outcomes; however, further investigation of the long‐term functional and oncological outcomes in these patients is required.
Corporate social responsibility and corporate tax avoidance: The channel effect of consumer awareness
Authors: Benlemlih Mohammed , Jaballah Jamil , Schochet Sholom , Peillex Jonathan
Published: June 2022

This paper investigates the relationship between corporate social responsibility (CSR) and corporate tax avoidance and the impact of consumer awareness on the constructs. We show that consumer awareness has the effect of decreasing the positive relation between CSR ratings and tax avoidance levels. Our findings are robust to various measures of our constructs. Collectively, the findings of this study lend credence to the risk‐management view of CSR and demonstrate that consumer awareness acts as a behavioral intervention and governance mechanism to help mitigate corporate hypocrisy.
LGR5 regulates osteogenic differentiation of human thoracic ligamentum flavum cells by Wnt signalling pathway
Authors: Yang Xiaoxi , Sun Chuiguo , Meng Xiangyu , Chen Guanghui , Fan Tianqi , Zhang Chi , Chen Zhongqiang
Published: June 2022

Thoracic ossification of the ligamentum flavum (TOLF) is ectopic ossification of the spinal ligaments. Histologically, the development of TOLF can be described as the process of endochondral ossification. However, the underlying aetiology has not been completely clarified. In this investigation, the gene expression profile associated with leucine‐rich repeat‐containing G‐protein‐coupled receptors (LGR) and Wnt signalling pathway in the thoracic ligamentum flavum cells (TLFCs) of different ossification stages was analysed via RNA sequencing. We further confirmed the significant differences in the related gene expression profile by Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment analysis. LGR5 was first identified in primary human TLFCs during osteogenic differentiation. To evaluate the effect of LGR5 on osteogenic differentiation, LGR5 has been knocked down and overexpressed in human TLFCs. We observed that the knockdown of LGR5 inhibited the activity of Wnt signalling and attenuated the potential osteogenic differentiation of TLFCs, while overexpression of LGR5 activated the Wnt signalling pathway and increased osteogenic differentiation. Our results provide important evidence for the potent positive mediatory effects of LGR5 on osteogenesis by enhancing the Wnt signalling pathway in TOLF.
A national study of disenrollment from hospice among people with dementia
Authors: Hunt Lauren J. , Gan Siqi , Boscardin W. John , Yaffe Kristine , Ritchie Christine S. , Aldridge Melissa D. , Smith Alexander K.
Published: June 2022

Background

People with dementia (PWD) are at high risk for hospice disenrollment, yet little is known about patterns of disenrollment among the growing number of hospice enrollees with dementia.

Design

Retrospective, observational cohort study of 100% Medicare beneficiaries with dementia aged 65 and older enrolled in the Medicare Hospice Benefit between July 2012 and December 2017. Outcome measures included hospice‐initiated disenrollment for patients whose rate of decline ceased to meet the Medicare hospice eligibility guideline of “expected death within 6 months” (extended prognosis) and patient‐initiated disenrollment (revocation). Hospice, regional, and patient risk factors and variation were assessed with multilevel mixed‐effects logistic regression models.

Results

Among 867,695 hospice enrollees with dementia, 70,945 (8.2%) were disenrolled due to extended prognosis and 43,133 (5.0%) revoked within 1‐year of their index admission. There was substantial variation in hospice provider disenrollment due to extended prognosis (10th–90th percentile 4.5%–14.6%, adjusted median odds ratio (MOR) 1.86, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.82, 1.91) and revocation (10th–90th percentile 2.5%–10.1%, MOR 2.09, 95% CI 2.03, 2.14). Among hospital referral regions (HRR), there was more variation in revocation (10th–90th percentile 3.5%–7.6%, MOR 1.4, 95% CI 1.34, 1.47) than extended prognosis (10th–90th percentile 7.0%–9.5%, MOR 1.23, 95% CI 1.18, 1.27), with much higher revocation rates noted in HRRs located in the Southeast and Southern California. A number of patient and hospice characteristics were associated with higher odds of both types of disenrollment (younger age, female sex, minoritized race and ethnicity, Medicaid dual eligibility, Medicare Part C enrollment), while some were associated with revocation only (more comorbidities, newer, smaller, and for‐profit hospices).

Conclusions

In this nationally representative study of hospice enrollees with dementia, hospice disenrollment varied by type of hospice, geographic region, and patient characteristics including age, sex, race, and ethnicity. These findings raise important questions about whether and how the Medicare Hospice Benefit could be adapted to reduce disparities and better support PWD.
Geriatric surgical service interventions in older emergency general surgery patients: Preliminary results
Authors: Hu Frances Y. , O'Mara Lynne , Tulebaev Samir , Orkaby Ariela R. , Cooper Zara , Bernacki Rachelle E.
Published: June 2022

Background

Older adults comprise an increasing proportion of emergency general surgery (EGS) admissions and face high morbidity and mortality. We created a geriatric surgical service with geriatric and palliative expertise to mitigate risks of hospitalization most hazardous to older patients. We sought to identify geriatric surgical service interventions most relevant to EGS patients.

Methods

We prospectively identified patients ≥75 years admitted to the EGS service at an urban tertiary care hospital from January 2020–March 2021 who screened positive for frailty (FRAIL score ≥3 [scale 0–5, higher being worse]) or with cognitive impairment. A pilot geriatric surgical service, led by a dually‐board certified geriatric and palliative care specialist, conducted a comprehensive geriatric assessment and modified Rockwood Frailty Index calculation for each eligible patient. Patient, hospital admission, and geriatric consultation characteristics were collected via chart review.

Results

Fifty consecutive patients (median age 82 years [IQR 78–90], 56% female) received geriatric consultation (median time 3 days [IQR 1–6] from admission). The most common admission diagnosis was bowel obstruction (32%). Sixty‐four percent of patients underwent ≥1 surgical procedure. Using the Frailty Index, 64% were moderately or severely frail. Interventions most frequently performed by the geriatric team included delirium prevention and management (66%), consideration of swallowing function (52%), individualized pain management (50%), and facilitation of serious illness conversations (58%).

Conclusions

Geriatric service involvement addresses a high burden of both geriatric and palliative care needs in older EGS patients. Geriatric recommendations may direct interventions for surgical education in fundamental geriatric and palliative care knowledge to maximize geriatric resources for the most high‐risk patients.
Associations of plasma betaine, plasma choline, choline intake, and MTHFR polymorphism (rs1801133) with anthropometric parameters of healthy adults are sex‐dependent
Authors: Mlodzik‐Czyzewska Monika A. , Malinowska Anna M. , Szwengiel Artur , Chmurzynska Agata
Published: June 2022

Background

Choline and its metabolites apppear to have relationships with body mass index (BMI), body fat, and body weight, but the research results have proved inconsistent. We thus investigated the associations of plasma levels of trimethylamine N‐oxide (TMAO), choline, and betaine with anthropometric measurements, including modulatory effects of genetics and diet.

Methods

The study was performed on a group of 421 adults, aged 20–40 years, who had been recruited in Poland. Plasma concentrations of choline, betaine, and TMAO were determined using reverse‐phase ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography electrospray ionisation mass spectrometry. The following polymorphisms were genotyped using TaqMan probes: rs180113 (MTHFR), rs70991108 (DHFR), rs2236225 (MTHFD1), and rs7946 and rs12325817 (PEMT). We employed multivariate linear regression to examine the associations between anthropometric measurements, one‐carbon metabolism metabolites, and genotypes.

Results

Higher plasma choline was associated with higher BMI (β = 0.17; p < 0.01), body weight (β = 0.11; p < 0.05), body fat mass (FM) (β = 0.10; p < 0.05), and waist circumference (WC) (β = 0.14; p < 0.01), whereas higher choline intake was associated with lower body FM (β = −0.14; p < 0.01) and lower WC (β = −0.12; p < 0.01). After stratification by sex, plasma betaine was found to be associated with lower BMI (β = −0.20; p < 0.05) and body weight (β = −0.16; p < 0.05) in men only, whereas choline intake was associated with lower body FM (β = −0.19; p < 0.05) and waist‐to‐hip ratio (WHR) (β = −0.19; p < 0.05) and MTHFR CC genotype was associated with WHR (β = 0.15; p < 0.05) in women only.

Conclusions

Higher plasma betaine and higher dietary choline are associated with lower FM and body weight, whereas higher plasma choline is positively associated with body weight status and adiposity. Moreover, these associations appear to be sex‐specific.
The effectiveness of music interventions on stress response in intensive care patients: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Erbay Dalli Öznur , Bozkurt Canan , Yildirim Yasemin
Published: June 2022

Aim and objective

To investigate the effectiveness of music interventions on physiological and psychological stress response in intensive care unit (ICU) patients.

Background

ICU patients are exposed to several physiological and psychological stressors during their treatments. Music interventions can be implemented to control these negative effects.

Design

Systematic review and meta‐analysis conducted according to PRISMA Guidelines.

Method

Seven electronic literature databases, reference lists of similar reviews, grey literature and the Clinical Trials Registry were searched for potential studies up to 30 January 2022. Studies were expected to meet PICOS inclusion criteria. Two reviewers independently assessed the risk of bias of the included studies by using the Cochrane Collaboration tool. Overall, meta‐analysis and subgroup analyses (comparator group and music session frequency) were performed using RevMan 5.4. Meta‐analysis was conducted when data were available; otherwise, a narrative description was provided.

Results

Twenty‐five articles were included in this meta‐analysis. Across all studies, regardless of the comparator, music was found to significantly reduce anxiety scores with an SMD of 1.81 ([95% CI: −3.09,‐0.53]; p = .006). Music was found to significantly reduce anxiety scores with an SMD of 1.97 (95% CI: −3.66, −0.28) compared to standard care (p = .02), but there was no significant change in anxiety scores in comparison with the noise cancellation group (p > 0.05). It was found that multiple music sessions reduced the anxiety level better than a single music session. Music had no effect the systolic/diastolic blood pressure, respiratory or heart rate level in both subgroup and general analyzes concerning the physiological stress (p > 0.05).

Conclusions

Music interventions involving multiple sessions can be used as a nursing intervention to control the anxiety levels of ICU patients.

Relevance to the clinical practice

Using music to reduce anxiety and stress levels may reduce the pharmacological need (for sedative or antipsychotic medications) and the risk of associated side effects in ICU patients.
Lipolysis defect in people with obesity who undergo metabolic surgery
Authors: Rydén Mikael , Andersson Daniel P. , Kotopouli Maria I. , Stenberg Erik , Näslund Erik , Thorell Anders , Sørensen Thorkild I. A. , Arner Peter
Published: June 2022

Objective

Cross‐sectional studies demonstrate that catecholamine stimulation of fat cell lipolysis is blunted in obesity. We investigated whether this defect persists after substantial weight loss has been induced by metabolic surgery, and whether it is related to the outcome.

Design/Methods

Patients with obesity not able to successfully reduce body weight by conventional means (n = 126) were investigated before and 5 years after Roux‐en‐Y gastric bypass surgery (RYGB). They were compared with propensity‐score matched subjects selected from a control group (n = 1017), and with the entire group after adjustment for age, sex, body mass index (BMI), fat cell volume and other clinical parameters. Catecholamine‐stimulated lipolysis (glycerol release) was investigated in isolated fat cells using noradrenaline (natural hormone) or isoprenaline (synthetic beta‐adrenoceptor agonist).

Results

Following RYGB, BMI was reduced from 39.9 (37.5–43.5) (median and interquartile range) to 29.5 (26.7–31.9) kg/m2 (p < 0.0001). The post‐RYGB patients had about 50% lower lipolysis rates compared with the matched and total series of controls (p < 0.0005). Nordrenaline activation of lipolysis at baseline was associated with the RYGB effect; those with high lipolysis activation (upper tertile) lost 30%–45% more in body weight, BMI or fat mass than those with low (bottom tertile) initial lipolysis activation (p < 0.0007).

Conclusion

Patients with obesity requiring metabolic surgery have impaired ability of catecholamines to stimulate lipolysis, which remains despite long‐term normalization of body weight by RYGB. Furthermore, preoperative variations in the ability of catecholamines to activate lipolysis may predict the long‐term reduction in body weight and fat mass.
Medical management of vascular anomalies of the head and neck
Authors: Léauté‐Labrèze Christine
Published: June 2022

Depending on impairment, treatment of vascular anomalies is decided on a case‐by‐case basis in pluridisciplinary consultations. Interventional treatments, especially surgery and sclerotherapy, are usually partially efficient and management of patients with vascular anomalies increasingly involves the use of medical drugs. The most common vascular tumor is infantile hemangioma where first‐line medical treatment, when necessary, is propranolol. Kasabach–Merritt phenomenon is now largely treated with sirolimus whereas first‐line treatment of coagulation disorders associated with venous malformations is based on low‐molecular‐weight heparins or direct anticoagulants. Sirolimus is the standard treatment for painful inflammatory manifestations of low‐flow vascular malformations such capillary, venous, and lymphatic malformations that can occur singly or in combination but PIK3CA inhibitors, originally developed in oncology, have shown promising results in patients with PIK3CA‐related overgrowth spectrum. Currently, medical treatments are poorly developed for high‐flow malformations such as arteriovenous malformations. However, new research aimed at delineating the different arteriovenous malformations based on molecular findings has given new hope for future development of targeted therapies.
The early faecal microbiota transfer alters bile acid circulation and amino acid transport of the small intestine in piglets
Authors: Teng Teng , Sun Guodong , Song Xin , Shi Baoming
Published: June 2022

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of faecal microbiota transfer (FMT) with lactation Min sows as faecal donor on blood immunity, small intestine amino acid transport capacity, bile acid circulation, and colon microbiota of recipient piglets. From Days 1 to 10, the recipient group (R group) was orally inoculated with a faecal suspension. The control group (Con group) was orally inoculated with sterile physiological saline. On Day 21, the results showed that the immunoglobulin A (IgA) concentration in plasma of the R group was increased (p < 0.05). The expression of 4F2hc in the jejunal mucosa and ileum mucosa of the R group was ameliorated (p < 0.05). The relative abundance of Synergistetes in the colon of the R group was increased, Proteobacteria was diminished by FMT (p < 0.05). On Day 40, the concentrations of IgA, IgG, and interleukin‐2 detected in the plasma of the R group were increased (p < 0.05). FXR and fibroblast growth factor 19 gene expression was upregulated in ileum mucosa, CYP7A1 and Na+ taurocholate cotransporter polypeptide gene expression were downregulated in the liver and organic solute transporters α/β was downregulated in colonic mucosa (p < 0.05). The relative abundance of Proteobacteria and Spirochaetes in the colon of the R group was decreased (p < 0.05). In conclusion, an early FMT with lactation Min sows as faecal donors can alter the small intestine amino acid transport capacity, bile acid circulation, and colonic microbiota of recipient piglets during lactation and after weaning.
The effects of sleep deprivation and obstructive sleep apnea syndrome on male reproductive function: a multi‐arm randomised trial
Authors: Alvarenga Tathiana A. , Fernandes Guilherme L. , Bittencourt Lia R. , Tufik Sergio , Andersen Monica Levy
Published: June 2022

Sleep is essential for the maintenance of health and systemic homeostasis. Decreased sleep time and sleep quality have been associated with a wide range of diseases. To evaluate the effects of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and total or selective rapid eye movement (REM) sleep deprivation on male reproductive function, we performed a three‐arm parallel study with one pre‐defined OSA group and a group of healthy volunteers who were then randomised into total or REM sleep deprivation groups. Questionnaires were completed and overnight polysomnography was undertaken, and blood and sperm samples were collected at the Sleep Institute, São Paulo, Brazil. OSA was diagnosed using questionnaires and polysomnography. Male sexual function was assessed through the questionnaires, blood tests, and semen samples. Data showed an association between OSA and lower circulating levels of total and free testosterone and high‐density lipoproteins, as well as a lower proportion of healthy sperm cells and decreased sperm concentration, in comparison to volunteers. Volunteers subjected to either total or REM sleep deprivation had increased circulating levels of thyroid‐stimulating hormone, insulin, and higher homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA‐IR) values. Both sleep‐deprived groups also shown decreased cholesterol, and low‐density lipoproteins when compared to their baseline levels, but had no alterations in their spermograms. We observed a reduction in total testosterone following total sleep deprivation, but no effect after REM sleep deprivation. OSA was associated with a hormonal imbalance, which is probably linked with impaired reproductive function and associated comorbidities, such as sleep fragmentation/loss and obesity.
Mycobacterial serine/threonine phosphatase PstP is phosphoregulated and localized to mediate control of cell wall metabolism
Authors: Shamma Farah , Rego E. Hesper , Boutte Cara C.
Published: June 2022

The mycobacterial cell wall is profoundly regulated in response to environmental stresses, and this regulation contributes to antibiotic tolerance. The reversible phosphorylation of different cell wall regulatory proteins is a major mechanism of cell wall regulation. Eleven serine/threonine protein kinases phosphorylate many critical cell wall‐related proteins in mycobacteria. PstP is the sole serine/ threonine phosphatase, but few proteins have been verified as PstP substrates. PstP is itself phosphorylated, but the role of its phosphorylation in regulating its activity has been unclear. In this study, we aim to discover novel substrates of PstP in Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb). We show in vitro that PstP dephosphorylates two regulators of peptidoglycan in Mtb, FhaA, and Wag31. We also show that a phosphomimetic mutation of T137 on PstP negatively regulates its catalytic activity against the cell wall regulators FhaA, Wag31, CwlM, PknB, and PknA, and that the corresponding mutation in Mycobacterium smegmatis causes misregulation of peptidoglycan in vivo. We show that PstP is localized to the septum, which likely restricts its access to certain substrates. These findings on the regulation of PstP provide insight into the control of cell wall metabolism in mycobacteria.
Construing journeys to recovery from psychosis: A qualitative analysis of first‐person accounts
Authors: Green Bob , García‐Mieres Helena
Published: June 2022

Purpose

To perform a qualitative analysis of the factors that were construed as salient in facilitating the process of recovery in the narratives of people with psychosis who had their first‐person accounts (FPAs) published in an academic journal.

Methods

Computerized textual analysis was undertaken of 156 FPAs written by persons who had experienced psychosis and published in the Schizophrenia Bulletin between 1979 and 2020. Constructs were extracted from the FPAs and coded in terms of Mental health treatment and therapy, Self‐management and Multiple factors; recovery processes (Connectedness, Hope, Identity, Meaning and Empowerment), Struggles and Turning points.

Results

Psychosis impacted on individuals in profound and diverse ways. This was reflected in the different pathways to recovery included in the FPAs. Underlying the different pathways was the salience of re‐engagement in the shared reality of others; development of a cohesive and positive self; empowerment through the use of self‐management strategies, and making sense of experience through reconstruing what was meaningful. Personal constructs identified in the FPAs provided insight into both challenges faced and alternative avenues of movement that were perceived as available.

Conclusions

Processes that support individuals re‐engaging with the shared reality of others are central to recovery. Supportive relationships and fostering open dialogue were consistent themes across the different pathways that recovery journeys took. Establishing a meaningful lifestyle and recovering a positive sense of identity were a key challenge following psychosis onset. Appreciation of experiences contained in FPAs has the potential to enhance the effectiveness and humanity of mental health care.
Multi‐omics profiling reveals comprehensive microbe–plant–metabolite regulation patterns for medicinal plant Glycyrrhiza uralensis Fisch
Authors: Zhong Chaofang , Chen Chaoyun , Gao Xi , Tan Chongyang , Bai Hong , Ning Kang
Published: June 2022

Glycyrrhiza uralensis Fisch is a medicinal plant widely used to treat multiple diseases in Europe and Asia, and its efficacy largely depends on liquiritin and glycyrrhizic acid. The regulatory pattern responsible for the difference in efficacy between wild and cultivated G. uralensis remains largely undetermined. Here, we collected roots and rhizosphere soils from wild (WT) G. uralensis as well as those farmed for 1 year (C1) and 3 years (C3), generated metabolite and transcript data for roots, microbiota data for rhizospheres and conducted comprehensive multi‐omics analyses. We updated gene structures for all 40 091 genes in G. uralensis, and based on 52 differentially expressed genes, we charted the route‐map of both liquiritin and glycyrrhizic acid biosynthesis, with genes BAS, CYP72A154 and CYP88D6 critical for glycyrrhizic acid biosynthesis being significantly expressed higher in wild G. uralensis than in cultivated G. uralensis. Additionally, multi‐omics network analysis identified that Lysobacter was strongly associated with CYP72A154, which was required for glycyrrhizic acid biosynthesis. Finally, we developed a holistic multi‐omics regulation model that confirmed the importance of rhizosphere microbial community structure in liquiritin accumulation. This study thoroughly decoded the key regulatory mechanisms of liquiritin and glycyrrhizic acid, and provided new insights into the interactions of the plant's key metabolites with its transcriptome, rhizosphere microbes and environment, which would guide future cultivation of G. uralensis.
The effects of desiccation and salinity gradients on the PSII photochemical efficiency of an intertidal brown alga, Sargassum fusiforme from Kagoshima, Japan
Authors: Yonemori Yukiko , Kokubu Shogo , Nishihara Gregory N. , Endo Hikaru , Terada Ryuta
Published: June 2022

The responses of photochemical efficiency to desiccation and salinity gradients in an intertidal edible brown macroalga, Sargassum fusiforme (Harvey) Setchell (Sargassaceae, Fucales), were determined using a pulse amplitude modulation (PAM)‐chlorophyll fluorometer. The effective quantum yields (ΔF/Fm'; = ΦPSII) of photosystem II (PSII) dropped to zero after 360‐min aerial exposure under low irradiance (20 μmol photons m−2 s−1) and 120‐min exposure under high irradiance (700 μmol photons m−2 s−1) for this species at 20°C and 50% relative humidity. Under these conditions, ΔF/Fm' failed to recover to initial levels even after 1‐day rehydration in seawater. In general, ΔF/Fm' decreased as desiccation reduced the absolute water content (AWC, %). Nevertheless, when AWC was above ca. 20%, ΔF/Fm' was mostly restored to initial levels after 1‐day rehydration in seawater, suggesting strong tolerance to dehydration. Furthermore, S. fusiforme appeared to tolerate a broad range of salinity (i.e. 15–50 psu) during six days of culture; however, ΔF/Fm' declined when salinity was <10 and 60 psu. Strong tolerance to dehydration and salinity stress likely provides S. fusiforme an advantage that allows it to flourish in the intertidal habitat.
Electrocortical measures of win and loss processing are associated with mesocorticolimbic functional connectivity: A combined ERP and rs‐fMRI study
Authors: Crane Natania A. , Burkhouse Katie L. , Gorka Stephanie M. , Klumpp Heide , Phan K. Luan
Published: June 2022

The reward positivity (RewP) event‐related potential is a well‐validated measure of reward processing implicated in internalizing psychopathologies. The RewP is thought to reflect reward reactivity in the mesocorticolimbic system; however, it is not clear how the RewP is related to the functional connectivity of reward‐related brain regions. The current study examined associations between the RewP (Win and Loss residuals) and resting‐state fMRI (rs‐fMRI), among adults with internalizing psychopathology (IP) and healthy controls (HC). All participants (N = 102) completed a validated monetary reward task during electroencephalogram and rs‐fMRI. Regression analyses were conducted with (1) RewP‐Win residual amplitude and striatal seeds (caudate, putamen, nucleus accumbens) and (2) RewP‐Loss residual amplitude and anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) seeds. Overall, individuals with greater RewP‐Win residual amplitude demonstrated increased rs‐fMRI connectivity between striatal regions and the medial prefrontal cortex, as well as the parahippocampal gyrus, but decreased connectivity between striatal regions and regions involved in cognitive control and sensorimotor processing. Greater RewP‐Loss residual was related to greater connectivity between the ACC and regions involved in reward/loss processing and motor control, but decreased connectivity between the ACC and regions involved in cognitive control. Relationships between the RewP and rs‐fMRI were generally consistent across IP and HC. However, a few patterns were unique to IP. Results indicate the RewP is associated with resting‐state functional connectivity of reward‐ and loss‐related brain regions, suggesting connectivity of the mesocorticolimbic system may be an important individual difference factor in dimensions of attainment of reward and loss.
Characterizing cardiac autonomic dynamics of fear learning in humans
Authors: Battaglia Simone , Orsolini Stefano , Borgomaneri Sara , Barbieri Riccardo , Diciotti Stefano , di Pellegrino Giuseppe
Published: June 2022

Understanding transient dynamics of the autonomic nervous system during fear learning remains a critical step to translate basic research into treatment of fear‐related disorders. In humans, it has been demonstrated that fear learning typically elicits transient heart rate deceleration. However, classical analyses of heart rate variability (HRV) fail to disentangle the contribution of parasympathetic and sympathetic systems, and crucially, they are not able to capture phasic changes during fear learning. Here, to gain deeper insight into the physiological underpinnings of fear learning, a novel frequency‐domain analysis of heart rate was performed using a short‐time Fourier transform, and instantaneous spectral estimates extracted from a point‐process modeling algorithm. We tested whether spectral transient components of HRV, used as a noninvasive probe of sympathetic and parasympathetic mechanisms, can dissociate between fear conditioned and neutral stimuli. We found that learned fear elicited a transient heart rate deceleration in anticipation of noxious stimuli. Crucially, results revealed a significant increase in spectral power in the high frequency band when facing the conditioned stimulus, indicating increased parasympathetic (vagal) activity, which distinguished conditioned and neutral stimuli during fear learning. Our findings provide a proximal measure of the involvement of cardiac vagal dynamics into the psychophysiology of fear learning and extinction, thus offering new insights for the characterization of fear in mental health and illness.
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Published: June 2022

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Paradoxos do Direito à Igualdade: Discriminação, Diferença e Identidade sob uma Perspectiva Crítica
Authors: Cesario Alvim Gomes Juliana , Fabris Ligia
Published: June 2022

O objetivo do artigo é explorar os paradoxos do direito à igualdade, contextualizando, aprofundando e problematizando os efeitos do seu uso para o combate à subordinação de e para promoção de inclusão. De forma geral, o artigo argumenta que o direito à igualdade, se empregado de maneira acrítica e descontextualizada, pode gerar uma série de efeitos adversos, prejudicando inclusive aqueles que pretenderia contemplar. Para tanto, aborda-se a distinção entre igualdade formal e material e os critérios tradicionalmente utilizados para justificar a desequiparação perante o Direito, e sustenta-se sua insuficiência para lidar com os dilemas da igualdade. Explora-se a relação entre igualdade e diferença, discutindo-se como a construção da diferença, a pretexto de visibilizar experiências de subordinação e viabilizar o reconhecimento de direitos, apresenta riscos de fortalecimento e reprodução de estereótipos e hierarquias. Analisa-se como as simplificações necessárias para a construção de identidades podem também limitar as possibilidades de identificação e criar hierarquização e invisibilização de experiências dentro um grupo subordinado. Discute-se como medidas de inclusão, como ações afirmativas e o direito à acomodação razoável, podem acarretar assimilação e conservadorismo. Investiga-se como a ênfase na diferença pode levar a uma fragmentação que tenha como consequência, de um lado, ignorar impactos negativos de certas demandas, e, de outro, impossibilitar a construção de uma abordagem mais ampla e solidária das subalternidades. Conclui-se que, mesmo que as ambiguidades não possam ser plenamente superadas, devem ser consideradas na construção de um arcabouço jurídico que pretenda promover os direitos de pessoas e grupos socialmente discriminados. Por fim, propõe-se uma abordagem crítica, contingente e contextualizada da igualdade capaz de oferecer um horizonte de mudança mais abrangente, articulado e transformador.
Prediction and Analysis of Sustained Annular Pressure of Gas Wells Considering the Influence of Production System and Liquid Thermodynamic Properties
Authors: Ding Liangliang , Li Shuai , Lian Zhanghua , Cao Lihu
Published: June 2022

Sustained annular pressure seriously affects the safety of wellbores. However, most models take the annulus liquid thermodynamic parameters and tubing pressure as constant values. Therefore, the prediction model of wellbore temperature and pressure field was first established based on the basic theory of heat transfer to provide basic parameters for the follow-up sustained annular pressure calculation. Second, based on fluid mechanics theory, a prediction model of sustained annular pressure was developed considering the influence of tubing pressure fluctuation and thermostatic coupling on the thermodynamic parameters of annulus fluid. Then, the iterative method was used to solve the annular pressure. Combined with the field monitoring data of a high-pressure gas well, the model’s accuracy was verified. Finally, a parameter sensitivity analysis was performed, and annular pressure regulation steps were determined. The obtained results revealed that the developed prediction model met engineering accuracy requirements. In a high-pressure gas well, after repeated cycles of shutting in and opening the well for 19 times, gas column height was equal to the leakage point position. Gas column height, leakage point depth, shut-in well annulus temperature, and liquid density were found to affect the change speed and stable value of the annular pressures of shut-in and open wells. The sensitivities of leakage point depth and shut-in annulus temperature to annular pressure regulation were the highest and lowest, respectively. Research results helped us reasonably and quickly manage and control sustained annular pressure gas wells.
Half-century old Berkeley idea now finding missing links of nuclear quadrupole moments
Authors: Haas Heinz
Published: June 2022

There are basically two ways to determine precision values for nuclear quadrupole moments (Q): measurements for stable or reasonably long-lived (mostly ground) states by atomic and molecular spectroscopy and measurements for much shorter-lived excited states using nuclear condensed-matter techniques like Mössbauer or perturbed-angular distribution and correlation (PAC) spectroscopy. In all cases, the direct experimental result is the product of the electric-field gradient (EFG) at the nuclear site with Q. The EFG for atomic and simple molecular systems can now mostly be calculated by theory with good accuracy, while the present status of density functional calculations of solid-state systems used for short-lived excited states limits the accuracy, generally to a 10%–20% level. Thus, the EFG of at least one matrix where data for exited states exist must be calibrated by measuring a ground state with known Q using magnetic or quadrupole resonance. This procedure is obviously not applicable to elements having no stable isotope with I > 1/2. For Cd, the problem has now been overcome using a concept proposed in Berkeley half a century ago, measuring isolated free Cd (and Hg) molecules with PAC. A similar project for Pb ongoing at ISOLDE/CERN is sketched, as well as a related one for Sn.
Vector acoustic and polarization properties of underwater ship noise
Authors: Dahl Peter H. , Bonnel Julien
Published: June 2022

Vector acoustic field properties measured during the 2017 Seabed Characterization Experiment (SBCEX17) are presented. The measurements were made using the Intensity Vector Autonomous Recorder (IVAR) that records acoustic pressure and acceleration from which acoustic velocity is obtained. Potential and kinetic energies of underwater noise from two ship sources, computed in decidecimal bands centered between 25–630 Hz, are equal within calibration uncertainty of ±1.5 dB, representing a practical result towards the inference of kinematic properties from pressure-only measurements. Bivariate signals limited to two acoustic velocity components are placed in the context of the Stokes framework to describe polarization properties, such as the degree of polarization, which represents a statistical measure of the dispersion of the polarization properties. A bivariate signal composed of vertical and radial velocity components within a narrow frequency band centered at 63 Hz representing different measures of circularity and degree of polarization is examined in detail, which clearly demonstrates properties of bivariate signal trajectory. An examination of the bivariate signal composed of the two horizontal components of velocity within decidecimal bands centered at 63 Hz and 250 Hz demonstrates the importance of the degree of polarization in bearing estimation of moving sources.
Dynamic sound absorption characteristics of a series piezoelectric acoustic absorber regulated by voltage
Authors: Xu He , Kong Deyi
Published: June 2022

A piezoelectric acoustic absorber composed of double micro-perforated panels (MPPs) and their back cavity is studied in this paper. The outer layer of the MPP absorber is a common metal MPP, and the inner layer is a piezoelectric MPP made of polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) film. When an alternating voltage is applied to the polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF)-micro-perforated panel (MPP), it can be excited to generate different structural vibration modes, which can bring an additional absorption peak to the absorption performance curve of the piezoelectric acoustic absorber. The numerical simulation and experimental results indicate that the frequency and sound absorption coefficient of the additional sound absorption peak are closely related to the voltage parameters. Especially when the frequency of the alternating voltage is close to the eigen-frequency of PVDF-MPP, the additional sound absorption peak is more significant. Therefore, the absorption coefficient of the piezoelectric acoustic absorber at the corresponding frequency can be effectively enhanced by appropriately adjusting the parameters of the excitation voltage. This method of selectively and specifically improving the sound absorption performance of the required frequency band is very effective in reducing the noise in the dynamic change.
A biological nanofoam: The wall of coniferous bisaccate pollen
Authors: Cojocaru Ruxandra , Mannix Oonagh , Capron Marie , Miller C. Giles , Jouneau Pierre-Henri , Gallet Benoit , Falconet Denis , Pacureanu Alexandra , Stukins Stephen
Published: June 2022

The outer layer of the pollen grain, the exine, plays a key role in the survival of terrestrial plant life. However, the exine structure in different groups of plants remains enigmatic. Here, modern and fossil coniferous bisaccate pollen were examined to investigate the detailed three-dimensional structure and properties of the pollen wall. X-ray nanotomography and volume electron microscopy are used to provide high-resolution imagery, revealing a solid nanofoam structure. Atomic force microscopy measurements were used to compare the pollen wall with other natural and synthetic foams and to demonstrate that the mechanical properties of the wall in this type of pollen are retained for millions of years in fossil specimens. The microscopic structure of this robust biological material has potential applications in materials sciences and also contributes to our understanding of the evolutionary success of conifers and other plants over geological time.
A 4D x-ray computer microtomography for high-temperature electrochemistry
Authors: Jiao Handong , Qu Zhaoliang , Jiao Shuqiang , Gao Yang , Li Shijie , Song Wei-Li , Chen Haosen , Zhu Hongmin , Zhu Rongqi , Fang Daining
Published: June 2022

High-temperature electrochemistry is widely used in many fields. However, real-time observations and an in-depth understanding of the inside evolution of this system from an experimental perspective remain limited because of harsh reaction conditions and multiphysics fields. Here, we tackled this challenge with a high-temperature electrolysis facility developed in-house. This facility permits in situ x-ray computer microtomography (μ-CT) for nondestructive and quantitative three-dimensional (3D) imaging. In an electrorefining system, the μ-CT probed the dynamic evolution of 3D morphology and components of electrodes (4D). Subsequently, this 4D process was visually presented via reconstructed images. The results monitor the efficiency of the process, explore the dynamic mechanisms, and even offer real-time optimization. This 4D analysis platform is notable for in-depth combinations of traditional electrochemistry with digital twin technologies owing to its multiscale visualization and high efficiency of data extraction.
Construction of a Rhodobacter sphaeroides Strain That Efficiently Produces Hydrogen Gas from Acetate without Poly(β-Hydroxybutyrate) Accumulation: Insight into the Role of PhaR in Acetate Metabolism
Authors: Shimizu Tetsu , Teramoto Haruhiko , Inui Masayuki
Published: June 2022

This study provides a novel approach for increasing the yield of photofermentative H
2
production from acetate by purple nonsulfur phototrophic bacteria. This study further suggests that polyhydroxyalkanoate is not only a storage substance for carbon and energy in bacteria, but may also act as a signaling molecule that mediates bacterial metabolic adaptations to specific environments.
A CURE for Physiological Characterization of Bacterioplankton in Liquid Culture
Authors: Lanclos V. Celeste , Coelho Jordan T. , Cleveland Catie S. , Hyer Alex J. , McCallum Mindy C. , Savoie Emily R. , Kosiba Scott , Thrash J. Cameron
Published: June 2022

Bacterial characterization is an important aspect of microbiology that includes experimentally determining growth rates, environmental conditions conducive to growth, and the types of energy sources microorganisms can use. Researchers use this information to help understand and predict an organism’s ecological distribution and environmental functions.
Clinical Evaluation of a Line-Probe Assay for Tuberculosis Detection and Drug-Resistance Prediction in Namibia
Authors: Günther G. , Saathoff E. , Rachow A. , Ekandjo H. , Diergaardt A. , Marais N. , Lange C. , Nepolo E.
Published: June 2022

Mycobacterium tuberculosis
(
Mtb
) drug-resistance detection is crucial for successful control of tuberculosis. Line-probe assays (LPA) are frequently used to detect resistance to rifampin, isoniazid, fluoroquinolones (FQs), and second-line injectables (SLIs).
Cell Cycle Progression Influences Biofilm Formation in Saccharomyces cerevisiae 1308
Authors: Jiang Ying , Liang Caice , Zhao Wei , Chen Tianpeng , Yu Bin , Hou Anqi , Zhu Jiaqing , Zhang Tao , Liu Qingguo , Ying Hanjie , Liu Dong , Sun Wenjun , Chen Yong
Published: June 2022

Immobilised fermentation can be achieved using biofilm resistance, resulting in improved fermentation efficiency and yield. The link between the cell cycle and biofilms deserves further study since reports are lacking in this area.