bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ISW1a modulates cohesin distribution in centromeric and pericentromeric regions
Authors: Litwin Ireneusz , Nowicka Małgorzata , Markowska Katarzyna , Maciaszczyk-Dziubińska Ewa , Tomaszewska Paulina , Wysocki Robert , Kramarz Karol
Published: July 2023

Cohesin is a highly conserved, multiprotein complex whose canonical function is to hold sister chromatids together to ensure accurate chromosome segregation. Cohesin association with chromatin relies on the Scc2-Scc4 cohesin loading complex that enables cohesin ring opening and topological entrapment of sister DNAs. To better understand how sister chromatid cohesion is regulated, we performed a proteomic screen in budding yeast that identified the Isw1 chromatin remodeler as a cohesin binding partner. In addition, we found that Isw1 also interacts with Scc2-Scc4. Lack of Isw1 protein, the Ioc3 subunit of ISW1a or Isw1 chromatin remodeling activity resulted in increased accumulation of cohesin at centromeres and pericentromeres, suggesting that ISW1a may promote efficient translocation of cohesin from the centromeric site of loading to neighboring regions. Consistent with the role of ISW1a in the chromatin organization of centromeric regions, Isw1 was found to be recruited to centromeres. In its absence we observed changes in the nucleosomal landscape at centromeres and pericentromeres. Finally, we discovered that upon loss of RSC functionality, ISW1a activity leads to reduced cohesin binding and cohesion defect. Taken together, our results support the notion of a key role of chromatin remodelers in the regulation of cohesin distribution on chromosomes.
Identification of mammalian transcription factors that bind to inaccessible chromatin
Authors: Pop Romana T , Pisante Alessandra , Nagy Dorka , Martin Patrick C N , Mikheeva Liudmila A , Hayat Ateequllah , Ficz Gabriella , Zabet Nicolae Radu
Published: July 2023

Transcription factors (TFs) are proteins that affect gene expression by binding to regulatory regions of DNA in a sequence specific manner. The binding of TFs to DNA is controlled by many factors, including the DNA sequence, concentration of TF, chromatin accessibility and co-factors. Here, we systematically investigated the binding mechanism of hundreds of TFs by analysing ChIP-seq data with our explainable statistical model, ChIPanalyser. This tool uses as inputs the DNA sequence binding motif; the capacity to distinguish between strong and weak binding sites; the concentration of TF; and chromatin accessibility. We found that approximately one third of TFs are predicted to bind the genome in a DNA accessibility independent fashion, which includes TFs that can open the chromatin, their co-factors and TFs with similar motifs. Our model predicted this to be the case when the TF binds to its strongest binding regions in the genome, and only a small number of TFs have the capacity to bind dense chromatin at their weakest binding regions, such as CTCF, USF2 and CEBPB. Our study demonstrated that the binding of hundreds of human and mouse TFs is predicted by ChIPanalyser with high accuracy and showed that many TFs can bind dense chromatin.
Structural basis for cloverleaf RNA-initiated viral genome replication
Authors: Gottipati Keerthi , McNeme Sean C , Tipo Jerricho , White Mark A , Choi Kyung H
Published: July 2023

The genomes of positive-strand RNA viruses serve as a template for both protein translation and genome replication. In enteroviruses, a cloverleaf RNA structure at the 5′ end of the genome functions as a switch to transition from viral translation to replication by interacting with host poly(C)-binding protein 2 (PCBP2) and the viral 3CDpro protein. We determined the structures of cloverleaf RNA from coxsackievirus and poliovirus. Cloverleaf RNA folds into an H-type four-way junction and is stabilized by a unique adenosine-cytidine-uridine (A•C-U) base triple involving the conserved pyrimidine mismatch region. The two PCBP2 binding sites are spatially proximal and are located on the opposite end from the 3CDpro binding site on cloverleaf. We determined that the A•C-U base triple restricts the flexibility of the cloverleaf stem–loops resulting in partial occlusion of the PCBP2 binding site, and elimination of the A•C-U base triple increases the binding affinity of PCBP2 to the cloverleaf RNA. Based on the cloverleaf structures and biophysical assays, we propose a new mechanistic model by which enteroviruses use the cloverleaf structure as a molecular switch to transition from viral protein translation to genome replication.
Efficacy and safety of CM310 in moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis: A multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled phase 2b trial
Authors: Zhao Yan , Zhang Jianzhong , Yang Bin , Li Jingyi , Ding Yangfeng , Wu Liming , Zhang Litao , Wang Jinyan , Zhu Xiaohong , Zhang Furen , Tao Xiaohua , Li Yumei , Zhang Chunlei , Li Linfeng , Lu Jianyun , Diao Qingchun , Lu Qianjin , Man Xiaoyong , Li Fuqiu , Xia Xiujuan , Cheng Hao , Jia Yingmin , Zhao Guoqing , Yan Jinchun , Chen Bo
Published: July 2023

Background:

Atopic dermatitis (AD) affects approximately 10% of adults worldwide. CM310 is a humanized monoclonal antibody targeting interleukin-4 receptor alpha that blocks interleukin-4 and interleukin-13 signaling. This trial aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of CM310 in Chinese adults with moderate-to-severe AD.

Methods:

This multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, phase 2b trial was conducted in 21 medical institutions in China from February to November 2021. Totally 120 eligible patients were enrolled and randomized (1:1:1) to receive subcutaneous injections of 300 mg CM310, 150 mg CM310, or placebo every 2 weeks for 16 weeks, followed by an 8-week follow-up period. The primary endpoint was the proportion of patients achieving ≥75% improvement in the Eczema Area and Severity Index (EASI-75) score from baseline at week 16. Safety and pharmacodynamics were also studied.

Results:

At week 16, the proportion of EASI-75 responders from baseline was significantly higher in the CM310 groups (70% [28/40] for high-dose and 65% [26/40] for low-dose) than that in the placebo group (20%[8/40]). The differences in EASI-75 response rate were 50% (high vs. placebo, 95% CI 31%–69%) and 45% (low vs. placebo, 95% CI 26%–64%), with both P values <0.0001. CM310 at both doses also significantly improved the EASI score, Investigator's Global Assessment score, daily peak pruritus Numerical Rating Scale, AD-affected body surface area, and Dermatology Life Quality Index compared with placebo. CM310 treatment reduced levels of thymus and activation-regulated chemokine, total immunoglobulin E, lactate dehydrogenase, and blood eosinophils. The incidence of treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs) was similar among all three groups, with the most common TEAEs reported being upper respiratory tract infection, atopic dermatitis, hyperlipidemia, and hyperuricemia. No severe adverse events were deemed to be attributed to CM310.

Conclusion:

CM310 at 150 mg and 300 mg every 2 weeks demonstrated significant efficacy and was well-tolerated in adults with moderate-to-severe AD.
The evolutionary impact and influence of oestrogens on adipose tissue structure and function
Authors: Bardhi Olgert , Palmer Biff F. , Clegg Deborah J.
Published: July 2023

Oestrogens are sex steroid hormones that have gained prominence over the years owing to their crucial roles in human health and reproduction functions which have been preserved throughout evolution. One of oestrogens actions, and the focus of this review, is their ability to determine adipose tissue distribution, function and adipose tissue ‘health’. Body fat distribution is sexually dimorphic, affecting males and females differently. These differences are also apparent in the development of the metabolic syndrome and other chronic conditions where oestrogens are critical. In this review, we summarize the different molecular mechanisms, pathways and resulting pathophysiology which are a result of oestrogens actions in and on adipose tissues.

This article is part of a discussion meeting issue ‘Causes of obesity: theories, conjectures and evidence (Part I)’.
Is there a role for higher cognitive processes in the development of obesity in humans?
Authors: Higgs Suzanne
Published: July 2023

Cognition underpins the flexibility of human eating and disruption to higher cognitive processes, such as inhibitory control and memory, and can result in increased food intake, which in the long term could result in weight gain. The aim of this review is to provide an overview of the current evidence on cognition as a causal factor in the development of obesity in humans. Evidence from meta-analyses supports the suggestion that cognitive function is cross-sectionally associated with obesity even when controlling for a range of confounding variables. However, this association could be explained by reverse causality because there is also evidence that the metabolic syndrome and a history of excess western diet consumption alters brain structure and cognitive function. Data from longitudinal and interventional studies and from non-human animal models suggest a reciprocal relationship between obesity and cognitive function exists but whether disruption to higher cognitive processes is a primary cause of obesity in humans remains unclear.

This article is part of a discussion meeting issue ‘Causes of obesity: theories, conjectures and evidence (Part I)’.
Limosilactobacillus kribbianus sp. nov., isolated from pig faeces
Authors: Bai Lu , Paek Jayoung , Kim Hongik , Kim Si Hyun , Shin Jeong Hwan , Kook Joong-Ki , Chang Young Hyo
Published: July 2023

A rod-shaped, aerotolerant, Gram-stain-positive bacterium isolated from pig faeces was designated as strain YH-lim2214T. Analysis of the 16S rRNA gene sequence revealed that the isolate was most closely related to

Limosilactobacillus pontis

KCTC 25258T with 98.0 % similarity. The average nucleotide identity and average amino acid identity values between YH-lim2214T and the most closely related strain Lm. pontis KCTC 25258T were 81.4 and 81.3 %, respectively. The major fatty acids were C18 : 1
 ω9c, summed feature 7 and C16 : 0. The cell-wall peptidoglycan type was A4α l-Lys–d-Asp. The genomic DNA G+C content was 51.1 mol%. The chemotaxonomic, phenotypic and phylogenetic properties of YH-lim2214T (=KCTC 25572T=JCM 35701T) suggest that it represents a novel taxon, for which the name Limosilactobacillus kribbianus sp. nov. is proposed.
Genome-wide phylodynamic approach reveals the epidemic dynamics of the main Mycoplasma bovis subtype circulating in France
Authors: Thézé Julien , Ambroset Chloé , Barry Séverine , Masseglia Sébastien , Colin Adélie , Tricot Agnès , Tardy Florence , Bailly Xavier
Published: July 2023

Mycoplasma bovis

is a major aetiological agent of bovine respiratory disease worldwide. Genome-based analyses are increasingly being used to monitor the genetic diversity and global distribution of

M. bovis

, complementing existing subtyping schemes based on locus sequencing. However, these analyses have so far provided limited information on the spatiotemporal and population dynamics of circulating subtypes. Here we applied a genome-wide phylodynamic approach to explore the epidemic dynamics of 88 French

M. bovis

strains collected between 2000 and 2019 in France and belonging to the currently dominant polC subtype 2 (st2). A strong molecular clock signal detected in the genomic data enabled robust phylodynamic inferences, which estimated that the

M. bovis

st2 population in France is composed of two lineages that successively emerged from independent introductions of international strains. The first lineage appeared around 2000 and supplanted the previously established antimicrobial-susceptible polC subtype 1. The second lineage, which is likely more transmissible, progressively replaced the first

M. bovis

st2 lineage population from 2005 onward and became predominant after 2010. Analyses also showed a brief decline in this second

M. bovis

st2 lineage population in around 2011, possibly due to the challenge from the concurrent emergence of M. bovis polC subtype 3 in France. Finally, we identified non-synonymous mutations in genes associated with lineages, which raises prospects for identifying new surveillance molecular markers. A genome-wide phylodynamic approach provides valuable resources for monitoring the evolution and epidemic dynamics of circulating

M. bovis

subtypes, and may prove critical for developing more effective surveillance systems and disease control strategies.
Phylogeny and evolution of the SARS-CoV-2 spike gene from December 2022 to February 2023
Authors: Kao Hsiao-Wei
Published: July 2023

Background

By the end of 2022, new variants of SARS-CoV-2, such as BQ.1.1.10, BA.4.6.3, XBB, and CH.1.1, emerged with higher fitness than BA.5.

Methods

The file (spikeprot0304), which contains spike protein sequences, isolates collected before March, 4, 2023, was downloaded from Global Initiative on Sharing All Influenza Data (GISAID). A total of 188 different spike protein sequences were chosen, of which their isolates were collected from December 2022 to February 2023. These sequences did not contain undetermined amino acid X, and each spike protein sequence had at least 100 identical isolate sequences in GISAID. Phylogenetic trees were reconstructed using IQ-TREE and MrBayes softwares. A median-join network was reconstructed using PopART software. Selection analyses were conducted using site model of PAML software.

Results

The phylogenetic tree of the spike DNA sequences revealed that the majority of variants belonged to three major lineages: BA.2 (BA.1.1.529.2), BA.5 (BA.1.1.529.5), and XBB. The median network showed that these lineages had at least six major diversifying centers. The spike DNA sequences of these diversifying centers had the representative accession IDs (EPI_ISL_) of 16040256 (BN.1.2), 15970311 (BA.5), 16028739 (BA.5.11), 16028774 (BQ.1), 16027638 (BQ.1.1.23), and 16044705 (XBB.1.5). Selection analyses revealed 26 amino-acid sites under positive selection. These sites included L5, V83, W152, G181, N185, V213, H245, Y248, D253, S255, S256, G257, R346, R408, K444, V445, G446, N450, L452, N460, F486, Q613, Q675, T883, P1162, and V1264.

Conclusion

The spike proteins of SARS-CoV-2 from December 2022 to February 2023 were characterized by a swarm of variants that were evolved from three major lineages: BA.2 (BA.1.1.529.2), BA.5 (BA.1.1.529.5), and XBB. These lineages had at least six diversifying centers. Selection analysis identified 26 amino acid sites were under positive selection. Continued surveillance and research are necessary to monitor the evolution and potential impact of these variants on public health.
Elevated corticosterone after fear learning impairs remote auditory memory retrieval and alters brain network connectivity
Authors: Brosens Niek , Lesuis Sylvie L. , Bassie Ilse , Reyes Lara , Gajadien Priya , Lucassen Paul J. , Krugers Harm J.
Published: July 2023

Glucocorticoids are potent memory modulators that can modify behavior in an adaptive or maladaptive manner. Elevated glucocorticoid levels after learning promote memory consolidation at recent time points, but their effects on remote time points are not well established. Here we set out to assess whether corticosterone (CORT) given after learning modifies remote fear memory. To that end, mice were exposed to a mild auditory fear conditioning paradigm followed by a single 2 mg/kg CORT injection, and after 28 d, auditory memory was assessed. Neuronal activation was investigated using immunohistochemistry for the immediate early genec-Fos, and coactivation of brain regions was determined using a correlation matrix analysis. CORT-treated mice displayed significantly less remote auditory memory retrieval. While the net activity of studied brain regions was similar compared with the control condition, CORT-induced remote memory impairment was associated with altered correlated activity between brain regions. Specifically, connectivity of the lateral amygdala with the basal amygdala and the dorsal dentate gyrus was significantly reduced in CORT-treated mice, suggesting disrupted network connectivity that may underlie diminished remote memory retrieval. Elucidating the pathways underlying these effects could help provide mechanistic insight into the effects of stress on memory and possibly provide therapeutic targets for psychopathology.
Effect of bilateral and multilateral concessional debts on public investment in Africa: A contingency analysis
Authors: Ezeaku Hillary Chijindu , Ugwunta David Okelue , Ibe Godwin Imo , Igwemeka Ebele , Eze Eze Festus , Egbo Obiamaka P.
Published: July 2023

The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the relative influence of bilateral and multilateral concessional debts on public investment in 32 sub‐Saharan African countries over the period 1985–2020. Dynamic panel autoregressive distributed lag models comprising the mean group, pooled mean group and dynamic fixed effect estimators were employed in our model estimations. The results revealed that bilateral and multilateral concessional debts had a long‐run positive and significant effect on public investment. The findings indicated that a 1% change in bilateral and multilateral concessional debt was associated with 8.6 and 11.3% increases in public investment, respectively. While the short‐run influence of bilateral concessional debts was significantly positive, multilateral concessional debts had a short‐run positive but insignificant effect on public investment. It is discovered that institutional quality is associated with declines in public investment. The contingency analysis shows that institutional quality explains a lot about how well bilateral and multilateral concessional debts drive public investment. The evidence suggests that poor institutional quality is more likely to undermine the effectiveness of bilateral concessional debts on productive investment than multilateral concessional debts.
Extensive profiling of histidine‐containing dipeptides reveals species‐ and tissue‐specific distribution and metabolism in mice, rats, and humans
Authors: Van der Stede Thibaux , Spaas Jan , de Jager Sarah , De Brandt Jana , Hansen Camilla , Stautemas Jan , Vercammen Bjarne , De Baere Siegrid , Croubels Siska , Van Assche Charles‐Henri , Pastor Berta Cillero , Vandenbosch Michiel , Van Thienen Ruud , Verboven Kenneth , Hansen Dominique , Bové Thierry , Lapauw Bruno , Van Praet Charles , Decaestecker Karel , Vanaudenaerde Bart , Eijnde Bert O. , Gliemann Lasse , Hellsten Ylva , Derave Wim
Published: July 2023

Aim

Histidine‐containing dipeptides (HCDs) are pleiotropic homeostatic molecules with potent antioxidative and carbonyl quenching properties linked to various inflammatory, metabolic, and neurological diseases, as well as exercise performance. However, the distribution and metabolism of HCDs across tissues and species are still unclear.

Methods

Using a sensitive UHPLC–MS/MS approach and an optimized quantification method, we performed a systematic and extensive profiling of HCDs in the mouse, rat, and human body (inn = 26,n = 25, andn = 19 tissues, respectively).

Results

Our data show that tissue HCD levels are uniquely produced by carnosine synthase (CARNS1), an enzyme that was preferentially expressed by fast‐twitch skeletal muscle fibres and brain oligodendrocytes. Cardiac HCD levels are remarkably low compared to other excitable tissues. Carnosine is unstable in human plasma, but is preferentially transported within red blood cells in humans but not rodents. The low abundant carnosine analogue N‐acetylcarnosine is the most stable plasma HCD, and is enriched in human skeletal muscles. Here, N‐acetylcarnosine is continuously secreted into the circulation, which is further induced by acute exercise in a myokine‐like fashion.

Conclusion

Collectively, we provide a novel basis to unravel tissue‐specific, paracrine, and endocrine roles of HCDs in human health and disease.
In vivo evaluation of bone regeneration using ZIF8‐modified polypropylene membrane in rat calvarium defects
Authors: Mousavi Seyed Javad , Ejeian Fatemeh , Razmjou Amir , Nasr‐Esfahani Mohammad Hossein
Published: July 2023

Aim

The profound potential of zeolitic imidazolate framework 8 (ZIF8) thin film for inducing osteogenesis has been previously established under in vitro conditions. As the next step towards the clinical application of ZIF8‐modified substrates in periodontology, this in vivo study aimed to evaluate the ability of the ZIF8 crystalline layer to induce bone regeneration in an animal model defect.

Materials and Methods

Following the mechanical characterization of the membranes and analysing the in vitro degradation of the ZIF8 layer, in vivo bone regeneration was evaluated in a critical‐sized (5‐mm) rat calvarial bone defect model. For each animal, one defect was randomly covered with either a polypropylene (PP) or a ZIF8‐modified membrane (n = 7 per group), while the other defect was left untreated as a control. Eight weeks post surgery, bone formation was assessed by microcomputed tomography scanning, haematoxylin and eosin staining and immunohistochemical analysis.

Results

The ZIF8‐modified membrane outperformed the PP membrane in terms of mechanical properties and revealed a trace Zn+2 release. Results of in vivo evaluation verified the superior barrier function of the ZIF8‐coated membrane compared with pristine PP membrane. Compared with the limited marginal bone formation in the control and PP groups, the defect area was almost filled with mature bone in the ZIF8‐coated membrane group.

Conclusions

Our results support the effectiveness of the ZIF8‐coated membrane as a promising material for improving clinical outcomes of guided bone regeneration procedures, without using biological components.
Aggression in toddlers: Associations with temper loss and parent‐child conflict
Authors: Del Vecchio Tamara , Lorber Michael F. , Peets Kätlin , Edelman Brooke , Slep Amy M. S.
Published: July 2023

Using a normative US sample of 477 mothers of 6‐ to 24‐ month‐old children, we explored the relations among toddlers’ physical aggression, child temper loss, and parent‐child conflict to gain a better understanding of how aggression develops from infancy to toddlerhood. An inventory of specific aggressive acts was subject to factor analysis to test whether the acts clustered as hypothesized. Consistent with our hypothesis, confirmatory factor analyses supported the distinction between the two types of aggression, directed and exploratory physical aggression. Although the two types were correlated, they showed differential associations with temper loss and parent‐child conflict consistent with theory. Directed aggression had a relatively stronger relation with child defiance and temper loss than did exploratory aggression. Moreover, the association between directed aggression and defiance was stronger for older children. The findings from this cross‐sectional study provide preliminary support for two forms of early aggression that may differ in trajectory and context.
State-of-the-art Membrane Processing of Solution Rich in Phenolic Compounds
Authors: Hamzah N. , Leo C. P.
Published: July 2023

Polyphenols and phenolic acids extracted from plants are natural antioxidants with high market value. However, they are susceptible to thermal processes, and a significant loss throughout food and beverage processing has been widely reported. This work reviews the state-of-the-aft membrane processing of the solution rich in phenolic compounds. Novel membrane processing allows phenolic concentration and water recovery simultaneously without using hazardous chemicals and high temperatures. Comparing pressure-driven membrane filtration processes with the advanced membrane processes at the low pressure  in this review allowed the proper process selection to concentration phenolic coumpounds. Pressure-driven membrane filtration processes, namely microfiltration, ultrafiltration, nanofiltration, and reverse osmosis, have been studied. Nanofiltration membranes offer high retention of polyphenols due to their matching molecular weight cut-off. Osmotic distillation, membrane distillation and forward osmosis are membrane processes operated at low pressure. Osmotic distillation and forward osmosis require drawing solutions with osmotic pressure differences to separate water from phenolic compounds. A similar separation is attained in membrane distillation by creating vapour pressure differences. Membrane distillation without drawing solution is recommended since membrane fouling can be mitigated using superhydrophobic membranes with self-cleaning properties.
Removal of Antibiotics from Wastewaters by Carbon Nanotube Filtration Membrane: A Review
Authors: Adewuyi Adewale , Ogunkunle Olaoluwa A
Published: July 2023

Water pollution by antibiotics is a global challenge requiring an affordable, readily available, efficient solution. Therefore, this review evaluates the role of carbon nanotube (CNT) based filtration membrane as an efficient solution to provide clean water free of antibiotic residues. The study considered the preparation of CNTs and CNT filtration membranes and their performance towards removing antibiotics from water. The study revealed that there are several methods for the preparation of CNTs, among which the chemical vapour deposition (CVD) is commonly used. It further revealed that three types of CNT-based membranes exist, which are vertically aligned (VA-CNT), bucky paper CNTs (BP-CNT) and CNT-based composite (CNT-CPS). Despite the high performance demonstrated by the membranes, there is a need to evaluate the cost-effectiveness, safety, and regeneration of the membranes. More studies are also required on a large scale to understand the behaviour of the membranes in the purification of ample water supply and the effect of interference from other co-pollutants in water in the real-life polluted water matrix. The study showed that CNT-based filtration membranes are promising membranes for the future, with reliable properties for effectively purifying contaminated water.
Observable color change of Cu2O–Mo–Zr composite films based on rapid oxidation at room temperature and thin film interference behavior
Authors: Zhang Haoge , Shi Pengyan , Lv Yuanjiang , Sun Haoliang , Wang Guangxin
Published: July 2023

In this paper, the Cu2O–Mo–Zr composite films with multiple structural colors on a flexible substrate polyimide (PI) were prepared by magnetron sputtering without introducing O2 and N2. Results show that the color of composite films changes rapidly when exposed to air at room temperature. Moreover, the color of composite films has a thickness dependence under the interference of the PI substrate and composite films. Analysis indicates that the addition of Zr and Mo in the composite films affected the microstructure and adsorption capacity of composite films to O2, causing the rapid oxidation and color change of the composite films when they were exposed to air. Furthermore, composite films sputtered at different vacuum conditions exhibited different structural colors, and the Mie scattering caused by Cu particles on films' surface after annealing changed the optical properties of films. The Mie scattering intensity of Cu particles was simulated using finite difference time domain to further illustrate the effect of Cu particles on the optical properties. The present work provides a simple and cost-effective method to prepare Cu2O composite films with multiple structural colors on different substrates.
Physical Activity Levels During School Recess in a Nationally Representative Sample of 10- to 11-Year-Olds
Authors: Wong Lan Sum , Reilly John J. , McCrorie Paul , Harrington Deirdre M.
Published: July 2023

Purpose: School recess provides a valuable opportunity for children’s daily moderate- to vigorous-intensity physical activity (MVPA). This study aimed to quantify MVPA during school recess in a representative sample of Scottish children and examine whether recess MVPA varied by gender, socioeconomic status, season, urban/rural residency, and recess length. Method: Five-day accelerometry MVPA data were analyzed from 773 children (53.9% girls, 46.1% boys, 10- to 11-y-olds) from 471 schools. Binary logistic regression explored associations between meeting/not meeting the recommendation to spend 40% of recess time in MVPA and the aforementioned risk factors. Descriptive recess data were also analyzed. Results: Participants spent an average of 3.2 minutes (SD 2.1) in MVPA during recess. Girls engaged in 2.5 minutes (SD 1.7) of MVPA compared with 4.0 minutes (SD 2.2) for boys. Only 6% of children met the recess MVPA recommendation. The odds of girls (odds ratio 0.09; 95% confidence interval, 0.04–0.25) meeting the recommendation was lower (P < .001) compared with boys. No statistically significant differences were observed in meeting the recommendation for the other risk factors. Conclusion: Levels of MVPA during school recess are very low in Scottish children, and interventions aimed at increasing MVPA during recess are needed.
Supplemental Material: Svalbox Digital Model Database: A geoscientific window into the High Arctic
Authors: Betlem Peter , al. et
Published: July 2023

Table S1: Svalbox Digital Model Database digital outcrop models (DOMs) and identifiers. Table S2: Svalbox Digital Model Database metadata parameters, values, and descriptors. Table S3: Additional details for the framework schematic provided in Figure 3 and steps on how to recreate the Svalbox Digital Model Database elsewhere. 
Anomalies in the review process and interpretation of the evidence in the NICE guideline for chronic fatigue syndrome and myalgic encephalomyelitis
Authors: White Peter , Abbey Susan , Angus Brian , Ball Harriet A , Buchwald Dedra S , Burness Christine , Carson Alan J , Chalder Trudie , Clauw Daniel J , Coebergh Jan , David Anthony S , Dworetzky Barbara A , Edwards Mark J , Espay Alberto J , Etherington John , Fink Per , Flottorp Signe , Garcin Béatrice , Garner Paul , Glasziou Paul , Hamilton Willie , Henningsen Peter , Hoeritzauer Ingrid , Husain Mujtaba , Huys Anne-Catherine M L , Knoop Hans , Kroenke Kurt , Lehn Alexander , Levenson James L , Little Paul , Lloyd Andrew , Madan Ira , van der Meer Jos W M , Miller Alastair , Murphy Maurice , Nazareth Irwin , Perez David L , Phillips Wendy , Reuber Markus , Rief Winfried , Santhouse Alastair , Serranova Tereza , Sharpe Michael , Stanton Biba , Stewart Donna E , Stone Jon , Tinazzi Michele , Wade Derick T , Wessely Simon C , Wyller Vegard , Zeman Adam
Published: July 2023

Chronic fatigue syndrome/myalgic encephalomyelitis (CFS/ME) is a disabling long-term condition of unknown cause. The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) published a guideline in 2021 that highlighted the seriousness of the condition, but also recommended that graded exercise therapy (GET) should not be used and cognitive–behavioural therapy should only be used to manage symptoms and reduce distress, not to aid recovery. This U-turn in recommendations from the previous 2007 guideline is controversial.

We suggest that the controversy stems from anomalies in both processing and interpretation of the evidence by the NICE committee. The committee: (1) created a new definition of CFS/ME, which ‘downgraded’ the certainty of trial evidence; (2) omitted data from standard trial end points used to assess efficacy; (3) discounted trial data when assessing treatment harm in favour of lower quality surveys and qualitative studies; (4) minimised the importance of fatigue as an outcome; (5) did not use accepted practices to synthesise trial evidence adequately using GRADE (Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluations trial evidence); (6) interpreted GET as mandating fixed increments of change when trials defined it as collaborative, negotiated and symptom dependent; (7) deviated from NICE recommendations of rehabilitation for related conditions, such as chronic primary pain and (8) recommended an energy management approach in the absence of supportive research evidence.

We conclude that the dissonance between this and the previous guideline was the result of deviating from usual scientific standards of the NICE process. The consequences of this are that patients may be denied helpful treatments and therefore risk persistent ill health and disability.
Admission blood eosinophil count, inpatient death and death at 1 year in exacerbating patients with COPD
Authors: Echevarria Carlos , Steer John , Prasad Arun , Quint Jennifer K , Bourke Stephen C
Published: July 2023

Background

Blood eosinophil counts have been studied in patients with stable chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and are a useful biomarker to guide inhaled corticosteroid use. Less is known about eosinophil counts during severe exacerbation.

Methods

In this retrospective study, 2645 patients admitted consecutively with COPD exacerbation across six UK hospitals were included in the study, and the clinical diagnosis was confirmed by a respiratory specialist. The relationship between admission eosinophil count, inpatient death and 1-year death was assessed. In a backward elimination, Poisson regression analysis using the log-link function with robust estimates, patients’ markers of acute illness and stable-state characteristics were assessed in terms of their association with eosinopenia.

Results

1369 of 2645 (52%) patients had eosinopenia at admission. Those with eosinopenia had a 2.5-fold increased risk of inpatient death compared with those without eosinopenia (12.1% vs 4.9%, RR=2.50, 95% CI 1.88 to 3.31, p<0.001). The same mortality risk with eosinopenia was seen among the subgroup with pneumonic exacerbation (n=788, 21.3% vs 8.5%, RR=2.5, 95% CI 1.67 to 2.24, p<0.001). In a regression analysis, eosinopenia was significantly associated with: older age and male sex; a higher pulse rate, temperature, neutrophil count, urea and C reactive protein level; a higher proportion of patients with chest X-ray consolidation and a reduced Glasgow Coma Score; and lower systolic and diastolic blood pressure measurements and lower oxygen saturation, albumin, platelet and previous admission counts.

Discussion

During severe COPD exacerbation, eosinopenia is common and associated with inpatient death and several markers of acute illness. Clinicians should be cautious about using eosinophil results obtained during severe exacerbation to guide treatment decisions regarding inhaled corticosteroid use.
SoC Protocol Implementation Verification Using Instruction-Level Abstraction Specifications
Authors: Lu Huaixi , Xing Yue , Gupta Aarti , Malik Sharad
Published: July 2023

In modern systems-on-chips, several hardware protocols are used for communication and interaction among different modules. These protocols are complex and need to be implemented correctly for correct operation of the system-on-chip. Therefore, protocol verification has received significant attention. However, this verification is often limited to checking high-level properties on a protocol specification or an implementation. Verifying these properties directly on an implementation faces scalability challenges due to its size and design complexity. Further, even after some high-level properties are verified, there is no guarantee that an implementation fully complies with a given specification, even if the same properties have also been checked on the specification. We address these challenges and gaps by adding a layer of component specifications, one for each component in the protocol implementation, and specifying and verifying the interactions at the interfaces between each pair of communicating components. We use the recently proposed formal model termed
Instruction-Level Abstraction
(ILA) as a component specification, which includes an interface specification for the interactions in composing different components. The use of ILA models as component specifications allows us to decompose the complete verification task into two sub-tasks: checking that the composition of ILAs is sequentially equivalent to a verified formal protocol specification, and checking that the protocol implementation is a refinement of the ILA composition. This check requires that each component implementation is a refinement of its ILA specification and includes interface checks guaranteeing that components interact with each other as specified. We have applied the proposed ILA-based methodology for protocol verification to several third-party design case studies. These include an AXI on-chip communication protocol, an off-chip communication protocol, and a cache coherence protocol. For each system, we successfully detected bugs in the implementation, and show that the full formal verification can be completed in reasonable time and effort.
Koli Calling 2023 Invitation
Authors: Mühling Andreas , Jormanainen Ilkka
Published: July 2023

We warmly invite you to attend the 23rd Koli Calling International Conference on Computing Education Research (Koli Calling 2023), to be held both online, 13-14 November 2023 and in Koli, Finland, 16-19 November 2023 in the beautiful Koli National Forest in Eastern Finland.
Member Spotlight
Authors: Smith Julie M. , Wallace Charles , Fiesler Casey
Published: July 2023

Casey Fiesler is an associate professor of Information Science at the University of Colorado Boulder, specializing in technology ethics, internet law and policy, and online communities.
Design and Analysis of Nanosheet Field-Effect Transistor for High-Speed Switching Applications
Authors: Kumar Ravi , Kumar E. Sathish , Vijayalakshmi S. , Prasad Dumpa , Mohamedyaseen A. , Choubey Shruti Bhargava , Vignesh N. Arun , Johnson Santhosh A.
Published: July 2023

Self-heating effects and short channel effects are unappealing side effects of multigate devices like gate-all-around nanowire-field-effect transistors (FETs) and fin FETs, limiting their performance and posing reliability difficulties. This paper proposes the use of the novel nanosheet FET (NsFET) for complementary metal-oxide semiconductor technology nodes that are changing. Design guidelines and basic measurements for the sub-nm node are displayed alongside a brief introduction to the roadmap to the sub-nm regime and electronic market. The device had an ION/IOFF ratio of more than 105, according to the proposed silicon-based NsFET. For low-power and high-switching applications, the results were verified and achieved quite well. When an NS width increases, although, the threshold voltage (Vth) tends to fall, resulting in a loss in subthreshold effectiveness. Furthermore, the proposed device performance, like subthreshold swing ION/IOFF, was studied with a conventional 2D FET. Hence, the proposed NsFET can be a frontrunner for ultra-low power and high-speed switching applications.
Tribological Behavior of Ni-P Electroless Coating of Inconel 625 with Multiwall Nano Carbon Tubes
Authors: Jayabalakrishnan D. , Senthil Kumar S. , Suthan R. , Babu Aurtherson P. , Elanchezhian J. , Ramanareddy V. , Louies Praveen S. , Umamahesawari Kandasamy
Published: July 2023

An attempt was taken to study the wear rate of coated Inconel 625 using 0.3 gm of multiwall carbon tubes (MWCNT).The coating was carried out by the Ni-P electroless coating method. The Ni-P-MWCNT coating was prepared by using nickel phosphorous solution. The sliding wear test was conducted using pin on discs tribometer. The wear rate behavior was investigated at various levels of pin on discs tribometer factors, and a predictive model was developed using regression equations. The wear test experiment was carried out based on the L27 orthogonal array. The wear process parameters load, sliding velocity, and sliding distance were chosen. It was observed that the rate of wear increased as the load increases, whereas increase in sliding velocity and sliding distance reduces the rate of wear. The developed regression model was validated with the measured wear rate. The percentage error was observed within 0.99%.
Retinocytoma Undergoing Retinoblastoma Transformation in an Adult Patient
Authors: Navaratnam J. , Faber R. , Eide N. , Lund-Iversen M. , Garred Ø. , Munier F. L.
Published: July 2023

We report a 46-year-old male patient with retinocytoma who presented at the age of 31 asymptomatically. An intraocular retinal mass was incidentally found in his right eye, when he underwent ophthalmological assessment for refractive surgery. This tumor consisted of a calcified sessile basis partially covered by a pedunculated salmon-pink growth. Initially, the tumor was diagnosed as a retinocytoma with clinical suspicion of malignant transformation into retinoblastoma and treated by four sessions of laser photocoagulation. Six and a half years later, the tumor relapsed, and he was treated with a Ruthenium plaque. Following brachytherapy, he had two episodes of right-sided vitreous hemorrhage that spontaneously cleared up, and the remaining finding in the vitreous cavity was interpreted as asteroid hyalosis. He underwent vitrectomy about five years following brachytherapy. The analysis of the vitreous material revealed the presence of inactive vitreous seeds composed of small round blue cells, compatible with a type 2 regression.
Impact of Median Sternotomy on Safety and Efficacy of the Subcutaneous Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator
Authors: Sugrue Alan , Ibrahim Rand , Lu Marvin , Bhatia Neal K. , Alkukhun Laith , Adewumi Joseph , Schaller Robert D. , Marchlinski Francis E. , D’Souza Benjamin , Nazer Babak , Tzou Wendy , Merchant Faisal M. , Frankel David S.
Published: July 2023

BACKGROUND:

Subcutaneous implantable cardioverter defibrillators (S-ICDs) are an attractive alternative to transvenous ICDs among those not requiring pacing. However, the risks of damage to the S-ICD electrode during sternotomy and adverse interactions with sternal wires remain unclear. We sought to determine the rates of damage to the S-ICD lead during sternotomy, inappropriate shocks from electrical noise due to interaction with sternal wires, and failure to terminate spontaneous or induced ventricular arrhythmias.

METHODS:

Retrospective, multicenter study of patients undergoing sternotomy before or after S-ICD implantation. Clinical, procedural, and device-related data were collected by each center and analyzed by the coordinating center. These data were compared with a historical control cohort of nonsternotomy patients.

RESULTS:

Of 196 identified patients (52±16 years, 47 women), 166 underwent S-ICD implantation after sternotomy and 30 sternotomy after S-ICD. There was no damage to any lead among those who underwent sternotomy after S-ICD. Defibrillation threshold testing was performed in 63% at implant, with 91% first shock success. During a median follow-up of 29 months (range, 1–188), S-ICD first shocks successfully terminated spontaneous ventricular arrhythmias in 31 of 32 patients (97%). Inappropriate shocks occurred in 22 patients, most commonly related to T wave oversensing (n=14). Compared with the nonsternotomy controls, there were no differences in rates of first shock success for induced or spontaneous arrhythmias or rate of inappropriate shocks.

CONCLUSIONS:

Sternotomy before or after S-ICD does not confer additional risk relative to a historical control group without sternotomy.
DNA Barcode of symbiotic chironomids: Findings in the genus Symbiocladius (Diptera: Chironomidae)
Authors: VELÁSQUEZ-RODRÍGUEZ KAREN , LIN XIAO-LONG , SÁNCHEZ-VENDIZÚ PAMELA , LOAYZA-MURO RAÚL , HUAMANTINCO ANA , PRAT NARCÍS
Published: July 2023

Chironomidae of symbiotic habits have been recorded in different parts of the world, among commensals and parasites. There are different genera reported at the moment, however questions such as the origin of commensal or parasitic life, which occurred first or what are their benefits remain debatable. In order to contribute with information to elucidate the above mentioned issues, the present study reports the finding of immature stages of Symbiocladius (Acletus) wygodzinskyi Roback, 1965 in the Churup stream located in the Andes Cordillera (Peru), living on nymphs of Leptophlebiidae (Ephemeroptera). We present a morphological description of immature stages of this species and for the first time the sequence of COX1 gene S. (A.) wygodzinskyi. The genetic result also supports differences between the morphospecies of Symbiocladius (Symbiocladius) rhithrogenae Zavřel, 1924 and S. (A.) wygodzinskyi in 23%.
The Ripple Effects of Post-Conviction Traumatic Stress in People Required to Register as Sex Offenders and their Families
Authors: Levenson Jill S. , Harris Danielle Arlanda
Published: July 2023

Post-Conviction Traumatic Stress (PCTS) describes the cognitive, psychological, and physiological symptoms of trauma that result from a range of experiences with the criminal justice system. This pilot study aimed to empirically validate the construct of PCTS utilizing the Post-Traumatic Checklist (PCL-5), an existing measure of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) according to DSM-5 diagnostic criteria. Using mixed methods, the survey asked about the traumagenic impact of arrests, court proceedings, incarceration, probation/parole supervision, and sex offender registration requirements in a sample of people required to register as sexual offenders (RSOs; n = 290) and their family members ( n = 126). The PCL-5 was used to estimate the prevalence of PTSD and to explore the unique presentation of symptoms. Findings indicated that 69% of registrants and 62% of family members reported clinically significant indicators of PTSD. Examples of specific symptom presentations are illustrated through qualitative responses. Implications for clinical treatment, policy, and future research related to PCTS are discussed.
Using social interaction models for genetic analysis of skin damage in gilts
Authors: Leite Natália Galoro , Knol Egbert , Tsuruta Shogo , Nuphaus Stefanie , Vogelzang Roos , Lourenco Daniela
Published: July 2023

Background

Skin damage is a trait of economic and welfare importance that results from social interactions between animals. These interactions may produce wound signs on the gilt’s skin as a result of damage behavior (i.e., fighting), biting syndromes (i.e., tail, vulva, or ear biting), and swine inflammation and necrosis syndrome. Although current selection for traits that are affected by social interactions primarily focuses on improving direct genetic effects, combined selection on direct and social genetic effects could increase genetic gain and avoid a negative response to selection in cases of competitive behavior. The objectives of this study were to (1) estimate variance components for combined skin damage (CSD), with or without accounting for social genetic effects, (2) investigate the impact of including genomic information on the prediction accuracy, bias, and dispersion of CSD estimated breeding values, and (3) perform a single-step genome-wide association study (ssGWAS) of CSD under a classical and a social interaction model.

Results

Our results show that CSD is heritable and affected by social genetic effects. Modeling CSD with social interaction models increased the total heritable variance relative to the phenotypic variance by three-fold compared to the classical model. Including genomic information increased the prediction accuracy of direct, social, and total estimated breeding values for purebred sires by at least 21.2%. Bias and dispersion of estimated breeding values were reduced by including genomic information in classical and social interaction models but remained present. The ssGWAS did not identify any single nucleotide polymorphism that was significantly associated with social or direct genetic effects for CSD.

Conclusions

Combined skin damage is heritable, and genetic selection against this trait will increase the welfare of animals in the long term. Combined skin damage is affected by social genetic effects, and modeling this trait with a social interaction model increases the potential for genetic improvement. Including genomic information increases the prediction accuracy of estimated breeding values and reduces their bias and dispersion, although some biases persist. The results of the genome-wide association study indicate that CSD has a polygenic architecture and no major quantitative trait locus was detected.