bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association between childhood obesity, trace elements, and heavy metals: Recent discoveries and future perspectives
Authors: González‐Domínguez Álvaro , Jurado‐Sumariva Lucía , González‐Domínguez Raúl
Published: May 2024

Trace elements and heavy metals play pivotal roles in health status by regulating a myriad of vital biological functions. Abnormal metal homeostasis has been linked to a constellation of pathogenic complications, including oxidative stress, inflammatory processes, dyslipidemia, and impaired insulin‐mediated metabolism of carbohydrates, thereby increasing the odds of developing childhood obesity and related comorbidities. Herein, we provide a comprehensive revision of recent literature on the association between childhood obesity, trace elements, and heavy metals. Further, we emphasize on the crucial importance of addressing the influence that interindividual variability factors (e.g., sex, age, genetic determinants, concomitance of comorbidities, and environmental factors) may have in modulating the susceptibility to disease development. Altogether, this review article represents a concise guide to better understand the involvement of metals in childhood obesity pathogenesis and discusses future needs with the aim of establishing robust biomarkers in the context of precision medicine.
The use of sodium caseinate in the freezing of sheep semen
Authors: Salgado Letícia C. , Codognoto Viviane M. , Garcia Rodrigo , Canuto Lucas E. F. , Denadai Renan , Freitas‐Dell'Aqua Camila P. , Almeida Filho Rogério A. , Sitó‐Silva Luan , Crespilho André M. , Oba Eunice
Published: May 2024

The aim of this study was to assess the addition of 2% sodium caseinate in a commercial egg yolk‐based medium in frozen ovine semen. Eight Dorper males were used for the study. The ejaculate was divided into two portions and frozen without (G1) or with the addition of 2% sodium caseinate (G2). Kinetic parameters were evaluated using CASA (computer‐assisted sperm analysis), and membrane and acrosome integrity as well as oxidative stress were assessed using flow cytometry. After thawing, a thermoresistance test was conducted at time points T0 and T90. For the fertility test, 100 ewes were inseminated with semen from two rams selected based on in vitro parameters, one with good post‐thaw quality (+70% total motility) and the other with low post‐thaw quality (−55% total motility). For the fertility test, the females were divided into 4 groups for insemination: low‐quality ram without caseinate (GBS = 25) and with caseinate (GBC = 25), and high‐quality ram without caseinate (GAS = 25) and with caseinate (GAC = 25). Regarding the results of sperm kinetics, there was a statistically significant difference in the parameters of average path velocity (VAP) and curvilinear velocity (VCL) between the group frozen with BotuBov and the group with added caseinate. At time point T90, straight‐line velocity maintained a trend (p < .06), with BotuBov® (BB group) being superior to caseinate this time, and in the linearity parameter, caseinate was superior to BotuBov®. Flow cytometry analysis showed no difference between any of the evaluated tests. In the fertility test, there was no statistically significant difference in the pregnancy rate between the BotuBOV® group (23%, 11/48) and the sodium caseinate group (BC group) (33%, 17/52), and no differences were observed in the male versus diluent interaction (p = .70). In conclusion, sodium caseinate supplementation did not influence sperm kinetic parameters and the fertility of sheep.
Association of general anxiety and pediatric dental preventive examination utilization, National Survey of Children's Health, 2021
Authors: Wiener R. Constance , Waters Christopher , Bhandari Ruchi
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Many factors influence preventive dental health service access for children. The objective of this research was to examine one factor, general anxiety, in accessing at least one preventive dental examination in the past 12 months in children with special healthcare needs (CSHCN) and children without special healthcare needs (CWSHCN).

Methods

National Survey of Children's Health (NSCH) 2021 were obtained for this cross‐sectional research. Chi‐square and logistic regression analyses were used to determine association of anxiety and past 12‐month preventive dental examinations.

Results

The sample included 10 493 CSHCN, and 35 675 CWSHCN. Overall, 72.7% had past 12‐month preventive dental examinations, and 9.9% had a healthcare provider indicate they had general anxiety. CSHCN with anxiety, CWSHCN with anxiety, and CSHCN without anxiety were more likely to have a past 12‐month preventive dental examination visit than CWSHCN without anxiety (Adjusted Odds Ratios: 1.86, 1.39, 1.32, respectively).

Conclusion

Our results suggest children with general anxiety (both CSHCN and CWSHCN) are more likely to have had at least one regular preventive dental visit within the past 12 months than CWSHCN and without general anxiety. There is a need for further understanding the relationship of general anxiety and dental health to improve the health of all children.

Practical implications

CWSHCN without anxiety need individualized, comprehensive care with enough time, attention, instruction, and rewards to demonstrate to parents/guardians the importance of making routine preventive dental examinations a priority for their child.
Supporting a mentally healthy place of study: Examining the relationship between mental well‐being, stress, and protective factors among university students
Authors: Turner Michelle , Holdsworth Sarah
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Students can expect to experience stressors associated with their studies that can have detrimental effects on their mental well‐being if not properly managed. Drawing on a positive psychology paradigm, protective factors can help students to counter study‐related stressors and contribute to their mental well‐being and academic success. The relationship between protective factors, such as maintaining perspective and building networks, with stress severity and positive mental well‐being was examined in a sample of Australian university students undertaking postgraduate coursework.

Methods

Students completed a survey measuring stress from the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS), positive mental well‐being from the Short Warwick–Edinburgh Mental Well‐being Scale (SWEMWBS), and seven protective factors from the Resilience at University (RAU) scale. Bivariate correlations were calculated for the RAU protective factors with stress and mental well‐being. ANOVA examined the RAU protective factors in relation to mental well‐being and stress severity groupings.

Results

All seven protective factors had a positive and significant relationship with positive mental well‐being, and six of the seven protective factors had a negative and significant relationship with stress. A statistically significant difference was found for six of the seven RAU protective factors according to mental well‐being group, and three of the seven RAU protective factors group according to stress severity group. A linear effect emerged between level of protective factor and mental well‐being group, with participants in the high well‐being group having the highest level of protective factors.

Conclusion

Universities should focus on the development of protective factors to support students' well‐being and help them to flourish in their studies.
Continual improvement of CRISPR‐induced multiplex mutagenesis in Arabidopsis
Authors: Develtere Ward , Decaestecker Ward , Rombaut Debbie , Anders Chantal , Clicque Elke , Vuylsteke Marnik , Jacobs Thomas B.
Published: May 2024

CRISPR/Cas9 is currently the most powerful tool to generate mutations in plant genomes and more efficient tools are needed as the scale of experiments increases. In the model plant Arabidopsis, the choice of the promoter driving Cas9 expression is critical to generate germline mutations. Several optimal promoters have been reported. However, it is unclear which promoter is ideal as they have not been thoroughly tested side by side. Furthermore, most plant vectors still use one of the two Cas9 nuclear localization sequence (NLS) configurations initially reported. We genotyped more than 6000 Arabidopsis T2 plants to test seven promoters and six types of NLSs across 14 targets to systematically improve the generation of single and multiplex inheritable mutations. We found that the RPS5A promoter and bipartite NLS were individually the most efficient components. When combined, 99% of T2 plants contained at least one knockout (KO) mutation and 84% contained 4‐ to 7‐plex KOs, the highest multiplexing KO rate in Arabidopsis to date. These optimizations will be useful to generate higher‐order KOs in the germline of Arabidopsis and will likely be applicable to other CRISPR systems as well.
The AfCFTA tariff offers: Current state and first revelations about members' stances towards openness and protectionism
Authors: Boysen Ole
Published: May 2024

Most signatories of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) agreement have submitted tariff concession offers, as published on the AfCFTA Secretariat's website. Over a year since the AfCFTA came into effect, it is time to take stock of these submissions and assess the data with respect to members' stances towards fostering intra‐African trade through openness on the one hand and maintaining protection against competing imports and revenues from import tariffs on the other. Combining the offers with corresponding trade and tariff data, we find that there are both significant data gaps and inconsistencies with the AfCFTA's trade liberalisation modalities and the trade classification standard. Constructing two tariff schedules, one which repairs the offers for compliance with the modalities and another that maximises the import tariff revenue retained as a benchmark, the analysis confirms that the modalities require regions to liberalise strongly, but most opt to liberalise even more and earlier than necessary. Stances towards freer trade, however, differ markedly between regions. Deriving a measure of liberalisation stance from the schedules above and associating it with trade, economic and geographic indicators reveals patterns that suggest potential motivations for the stances of some country groups.
Understanding inequalities of Philippine English in job interviews
Authors: Martinez Julius C.
Published: May 2024

The job interview is an illustrative encounter where inequalities in relation to Philippine English can be apprehended. Drawing on the reported experiences of ten job gatekeepers from various institutions, this study examines the complex ways job candidates are accepted and rejected on the basis of their spoken languages. The findings are as follows: First, there are normative varieties privileged by gatekeepers in the job interview. Access to these languages is shaped by social class and ethnolinguistic membership. Consequently, candidates were rejected because they could not speak languages that gatekeepers regarded as legitimate. It is also found that interview decisions were influenced by local and global markets, which are themselves outcomes of globalization and capitalism. Based on these findings, two suggestions are made to further understand the ways Philippine English (re)produces inequalities. The first is a rethinking of its emancipatory effects and the second concerns the politics of recognition in Philippine English studies.
Philippine English in the political speeches of President Rodrigo Duterte
Authors: Paz Rafael Michael O.
Published: May 2024

The rise of Rodrigo Duterte to power after the 2016 national elections in the Philippines quickly and drastically altered the country's political landscape. This is observed in the language choices of Duterte, in political speeches delivered during his administration. However, these ‘dutertisms’ have already been observed even before the national elections. This paper considers the years before Duterte became President and analyses his language practices in some of his campaign speeches. Using Davis's Lapu‐Lapu Factor as a lens, I attempt to trace how Duterte has successfully weaponised his brand of English, heavily textured by his heritage language Davao Bisaya, to win votes in the national elections.
Sujeitas de Direito: Interseccionalidades de Mulheres Venezuelanas Imigrantes Em Manaus Frente À Xenofobia E À Violência De Gênero
Authors: Batalha Iannuzzi Fernanda , Galeão Thiago
Published: May 2024

No presente artigo será tratada a problemática da dupla vulnerabilização sofrida pela mulher enquanto sujeita de direito e imigrante autônoma do processo de deslocamento da Venezuela até Manaus. Nesse viés, será abordado o estigma sofrido pela mulher como imigrante, bem como a histórica opressão de gênero, em que a mulher é diminuída por sua condição de ser mulher. Estuda-se a mulher imigrante venezuelana perpassada pelas interseccionalidades oriundas da xenofobia e da violência de gênero para o fim de responder a seguinte problemática: em que medida a xenofobia e a violência de gênero alteram a perspectiva da migração de mulheres venezuelanas enquanto mecanismos de desigualdade e opressão? Para tanto, utiliza-se o método de pesquisa bibliográfica, realizando-se a identificação da existência da xenofobia e violência de gênero no contexto das migrações venezuelanas, em especial em Manaus. As técnicas de pesquisa utilizadas são revisão bibliográfica e documental, com revisão teórica sobre as temáticas de migração e gênero, de forma a compreender a realidade da imigração feminina em Manaus e os mecanismos de desigualdade e opressão estruturados no paradigma heteronormativo estabelecido.
Pelos Olhos Da Suprema Corte: Seletividade Penal e Interseccionalidade entre Raça e Classe Social No Julgamento da Liminar da ADPF/635
Authors: Rarek Ariozo Camila , De Almeida Salvador Juliana , Garcia da Costa Ilton
Published: May 2024

O objeto de estudo da presente pesquisa reside na análise da liminar proferida na ADPF 635/RJ, visto que se trata de importante ação para a contenção de injustiças e promoção dos direitos humanos em face da população que sobrevive nas favelas do Rio de Janeiro. Para explorar tal questão, pretende-se responder: Quais reflexões são possíveis extrair do julgamento da liminar da “ADPF das Favelas”? E ainda, o que as diversas “favelas” representam no polo ativo da demanda? Acerca disso, objetiva investigar os fundamentos apresentados na liminar deferida e desenvolver reflexões acerca das discussões que envolvem a seletividade penal e a teoria da interseccionalidade entre racismo e pobreza. Além do mais, visa demonstrar o que o ingresso de diversos atores da sociedade civil, como amicus curiae, representa à demanda. O método utilizado foi o dedutivo, com uma abordagem baseada na análise descritiva e exploratória, através de pesquisa bibliográfica e jurisprudencial. Os resultados indicaram que a decisão liminar pode adjetivar a segurança pública nacional como “eficiente”, contudo as medidas ainda precisam ser mais bem implementadas e estendidas aos quatro cantos do país. Afinal, pessoas periféricas, pobres e negras, não são vítimas da violência policial apenas no Rio de Janeiro. Dessa forma, conclui-se que a ADPF 635, é uma importante ferramenta para resolução do conflito estudado e a esperança para construção de um futuro melhor.
STS 72/2018, de 9 de Fevereiro: Há Uma Virada De 180 Graus Na Restrição Penal Do Direito À Liberdade De Expressão?
Authors: Del Rocio García Álvarez Pastora
Published: May 2024

A nova redação do artigo 510.1, após a reforma introduzida no Código Penal espanhol pela LO 1/2015, de 30 de março, dá-lhe um conteúdo que reabre a antiga controvérsia sobre a legitimidade do direito penal para limitar o exercício do direito à liberdade de expressão. Na Exposição de Motivos desta lei, o nosso legislador fundamenta a nova redação deste preceito na necessidade de ajustar a nossa regulamentação penal aos requisitos da Decisão-Quadro 2008/913/JAI do Conselho, de 28 de novembro de 2008, que, no seu entender, não tinha sido adequadamente transposta. Entretanto, o legislador foi muito além das exigências dessa Decisão-Quadro, desnecessariamente e, o que é pior, sem respeitar as interpretações doutrinárias restritivas e os pronunciamentos jurisprudenciais anteriores relacionados às condutas nela incriminadas. A conduta de "provocação ao ódio", até agora localizada no que era o parágrafo 1º do anterior Artigo 510 Cp, foi agora realocada, ainda que com modificações, para a letra a) do mesmo artigo. Além disso, algumas das modificações nele incorporadas parecem impedir categoricamente as interpretações restritivas anteriores. E isso é assumido por nossa Suprema Corte em sua decisão 72/2018, de 9 de fevereiro. O objetivo deste trabalho é analisar se a nova redação da alínea a) do n.º 1 do artigo 510.º do Cp deve conduzir a uma alteração da linha interpretativa refletida nesse acórdão.
Palavras-chave: Discurso de ódio; Discriminação; Direitos humanos; Artigo 510.1.a) do Código de Processo Penal Espanhol; Decisão-Quadro 2008/913/JAI do Conselho
Poteri Sostitutivi Statali, Piani Di Rientro e Vincoli di Bilancio in Materia Sanitaria. tra Disuguaglianze e Tentativi di Emarginazione della Decisione Politica
Authors: Ciolli Ines
Published: May 2024

La tutela della salute, stretta tra vincoli di bilancio e piani di rientro, ha subito diverse restrizioni in tempi di crisi economica e finanziaria. I commissariamenti delle Regioni in deficit hanno consentito solo l’erogazione dei LEA, peraltro non sufficienti a garantire un ripristino dell’uguaglianza nelle Regioni più disagiate. Inoltre, il ruolo del commissario del governo, sul quale il legislatore e il giudice costituzionale hanno assunto posizioni ambigue e contraddittorie, lascia aperto il problema della decisione tecnica o politica in tema di scelte volte a risanare i deficit regionali.
 
Parole chiave: Salute; Disuguaglianza; Decisioni politiche
Sobolev inequality on manifolds with asymptotically nonnegative Bakry–Émery Ricci curvature
Authors: Dong Yuxin , Lin Hezi , Lu Lingen
Published: May 2024

In this paper, inspired by Brendle (Comm. Pure Appl. Math. 76 (2023), 2192) and Johne (arXiv:2103.08496, 2021), we prove a Sobolev inequality on manifolds with density and asymptotically nonnegative Bakry–Émery Ricci curvature.
Experiments on Gasketed Plate Heat Exchangers With Segmented Corrugation Pattern
Authors: Strobel Matheus , Beckedorff Leonel E. , Martins Giovani S. M. , Oliveira Jorge L. G. , Paiva Kleber V.
Published: May 2024

Gasket plate heat exchanger (GPHE) is among the most used heat exchanger types, known for its high effectiveness and compact design. Its remarkable feature is the corrugated plate geometry, typically a Chevron pattern. This work aims to analyze another corrugation pattern, which has segments with different angles to the vertical. The strengths and weaknesses of the segmented plate are still unclear, as the studies on this pattern are scarce. To fill this gap, we experimentally assess the pressure drop and heat transfer in a GPHE composed of 31 segmented plates. The plates have four quadrants, and the combination of low-angle and high-angle plates can form up to six channel types. Pressure and temperature data are acquired in 144 sets of experiments. In the pressure drop results, we observe a considerable discrepancy between the two streams, which leads to a discussion of a relevant phenomenon: the elastic deformation of the plates. If the inner pressure of the streams is not equal, the pressure gradient causes the plates to deform and change the channel geometry. The stream with the higher pressure has its channels expanded, while the lower pressure channels will be strangled. This phenomenon is rarely reported in the literature and strongly affects the pressure drop. Moreover, we present friction factor correlations for six channel types using flow data. Based on the generalized Lévêque analogy in the heat transfer experiments, we argue that the plates' deformation also affects the heat transfer.
A Miniaturized Endoscopic Device Integrating Raman Spectroscopy and Laser Speckle Technology Via an Image Fusion Algorithm for Intraoperative Identification and Functional Protection of Parathyroid Glands
Authors: Wen Qiye , Cai Chang , Fang Jiayi , Luo Zifeng , Luo Yuanwei , Wang Chong , Liang Weixiong , Wang Song
Published: May 2024

The importance of parathyroid glands (PGs) protection is increasingly recognized by thyroid surgeons in the field of minimally invasive video-assisted thyroidectomy (MIVAT). However, current techniques for intra-operative identification and vascularity assessment of the PGs are contentious and complex. This study presents the design and validation of a miniaturized device for fusion near-infrared autofluorescence (NIRAF) based on Raman spectroscopy and laser speckle contrast imaging (LSCI) via an image fusion algorithm for functional protection of PGs in the MIVAT. Our light source components include an integrated light emitting diode (LED) light source fiber, an NIRAF optical fiber, an acquisition optical fiber, and a laser speckle optical fiber in the endoscopic system to achieve identification and vascularity assessment of PGs using a single endoscopic probe. It has been validated in ex vivo tissue experiments that the fluorescence intensity detected by the device was equivalent to that of the marker indocyanine green (ICG) in visual images and superior to that of the thyroid and all other tissues in the neck. Based on clinical studies, MIVAT using functional fluorescence endoscopy, compared with the White light pattern group, the NIRAF combined with LSCI modality group increased the number of intra-operative confirmations of the PGs (P < 0.001), declined the decrease in parathyroid hormone (PTH) (P < 0.05) and calcium levels (P < 0.05) on the first postoperative day, and reduced the incidence of symptomatic hypocalcemia (P < 0.05). Our device may reduce the incidence of postoperative permanent hypoparathyroidism. Application of an miniaturized functional fluorescence endoscope for real-time and label-free PGs identification and vascularity assessment in MIVAT could be realized.
Evolution of hard carbon layers on Ti-45Al-2Nb-2Mn-1B by plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition of hydrocarbons and hydrogen
Authors: Rastkar Ahmad Reza , Kandjani Mehdi Sadri
Published: May 2024

Extension of pulsed DC plasma enhanced CVD (PECVD) of carbon from hydrocarbons resulted in thick hard carbon layers on Ti-45Al-2Nb-2Mn-1B. PECVD for less than 2 h led to the formation of surface interlayers of TiC and Ti2AlC compounds under the hard carbon layer. After 5 h until 20 h, the formation of carbons layers surpassed the growth of TiC and Ti2AlC layers and resulted in a thicker hard carbon layer. This can be explained with the deceleration of carbon diffusion into the base alloy that resulted in the accumulation of a hard structure of carbon on the outer surface. The thickness of the hard carbon layers reached up to ∼40 μm, which were revealed using SEM microcopy. The hardness on the outer surface of hard carbon layer was around 600–1500 HV0.5 (5.88–14.71 GPa). EDX analysis across the surface layers showed ∼50–100 at. % carbon on the outermost layers. Raman spectroscopy of carbon layers showed sp3 (D) and sp2 (G) peaks of carbon at ∼1330 and ∼1560 cm−1 and peaks of TiC at ∼200 cm−1 peaks.
Cochlear-implant listeners benefit from training with time-compressed speech, even at advanced ages
Authors: Ezenwa Amara C. , Goupell Matthew J. , Gordon-Salant Sandra
Published: May 2024

This study evaluated whether adaptive training with time-compressed speech produces an age-dependent improvement in speech recognition in 14 adult cochlear-implant users. The protocol consisted of a pretest, 5 h of training, and a posttest using time-compressed speech and an adaptive procedure. There were significant improvements in time-compressed speech recognition at the posttest session following training (>5% in the average time-compressed speech recognition threshold) but no effects of age. These results are promising for the use of adaptive training in aural rehabilitation strategies for cochlear-implant users across the adult lifespan and possibly using speech signals, such as time-compressed speech, to train temporal processing.
“Know Your Kids, Understand Yourself, and Find a Way”: One Elementary School Physical Education Teacher’s Efforts at Employing Character Education
Authors: Brunsdon Jamie Jacob
Published: May 2024

Background: Research concerning the philosophy of character education has been largely inadequate and anticlimactic. Purpose: Informed by a combination of emergent, novel, and nontraditional techniques, the purpose of this study is to describe one elementary school physical education teacher’s efforts at employing character education. Method: The participant was Paris, a White, abled-bodied female with 41 years’ experience. Utilizing an exploratory case study design, data were collected with eight interpretive techniques and analyzed using thematic methods. Findings: Paris employed a “content-based approach” to teaching character education and taught the moral content of human flourishing, virtue, and practical wisdom via jump rope, rock climbing, and parachute-based physical education content. Her character pedagogies of affect were explicit and implicit in nature and shaped around the skills themes, multiskill, and multiactivity pedagogical models. The factors influencing Paris’ efforts were identified. Conclusion: This study contributes to the affective literature from a theoretical, methodological, and practical perspective.
Corrected and republished from: “
Vibrio fischeri
Possesses Xds and Dns Nucleases That Differentially Influence Phosphate Scavenging, Aggregation, Competence, and Symbiotic Colonization of Squid”
Authors: Fidopiastis Pat M. , Childs Chaz , Esin Jeremy J. , Stellern Jordan , Darin Anna , Lorenzo Andrea , Mariscal Vanessa T. , Lorenz Jason , Gopan Vinay , McAnulty Sarah , Visick Karen L.
Published: May 2024

Cells of
Vibrio fischeri
colonize the light organ of
Euprymna scolopes
, providing the squid bioluminescence in exchange for nutrients and protection. The bacteria encounter DNA-rich mucus throughout their transition to a symbiotic lifestyle, leading us to hypothesize a role for nuclease activity in the colonization process. In support of this, we detected abundant extracellular nuclease activity in growing cells of
V. fischeri
. To discover the gene(s) responsible for this activity, we screened a
V. fischeri
transposon mutant library for nuclease-deficient strains. Interestingly, only one strain, whose transposon insertion mapped to nuclease gene
VF_1451
, showed a complete loss of nuclease activity in our screens. A database search revealed that
VF_1451
is homologous to the nuclease-encoding gene
xds
in
Vibrio cholerae
. However,
V. fischeri
strains lacking
xds
eventually revealed slight nuclease activity on plates upon prolonged incubation. This led us to hypothesize that a second secreted nuclease, identified through a database search as
VF_0437
, a homolog of
V. cholerae dns
, might be responsible for the residual nuclease activity. Here, we show that Xds and/or Dns are involved in essential aspects of
V. fischeri
biology, including natural transformation, aggregation, and phosphate scavenging. Furthermore, strains lacking either nuclease were outcompeted by the wild type for squid colonization. Understanding the specific role of nuclease activity in the squid colonization process represents an intriguing area of future research.

IMPORTANCE

From soil and water to host-associated secretions such as mucus, environments that bacteria inhabit are awash in DNA. Extracellular DNA (eDNA) is a nutritious resource that microbes dedicate significant energy to exploit. Calcium binds eDNA to promote cell-cell aggregation and horizontal gene transfer. eDNA hydrolysis impacts the construction of and dispersal from biofilms. Strategies in which pathogens use nucleases to avoid phagocytosis or disseminate by degrading host secretions are well-documented; significantly less is known about nucleases in mutualistic associations. This study describes the role of nucleases in the mutualism between
Vibrio fischeri
and its squid host
Euprymna scolopes
. We find that nuclease activity is an important determinant of colonization in
V. fischeri
, broadening our understanding of how microbes establish and maintain beneficial associations.
Intracellular defensive symbiont is culturable and capable of transovarial, vertical transmission
Authors: Maeda Gerald P. , Kelly Mary Katherine , Sundar Aadhunik , Moran Nancy A.
Published: May 2024

Insects frequently form heritable associations with beneficial bacteria that are vertically transmitted from parent to offspring. Long-term vertical transmission has repeatedly resulted in genome reduction and gene loss, rendering many such bacteria incapable of establishment in axenic culture. Among aphids, heritable endosymbionts often provide context-specific benefits to their hosts. Although these associations have large impacts on host phenotypes, experimental approaches are often limited by an inability to cultivate these microbes. Here, we report the axenic culture of
Candidatus
Fukatsuia symbiotica strain WIR, a heritable bacterial endosymbiont of the pea aphid,
Acyrthosiphon pisum
. Whole-genome sequencing revealed similar genomic features and high sequence similarity to previously described strains, suggesting that the cultivation techniques used here may be applicable to
Ca
. F. symbiotica strains from distantly related aphids. Microinjection of cultured
Ca
. F. symbiotica into uninfected aphids revealed that it can reinfect developing embryos and that infections are maintained in subsequent generations via transovarial maternal transmission. Artificially infected aphids exhibit phenotypic and life history traits similar to those observed for native infections. Our results show that
Ca
. F. symbiotica may be a useful tool for experimentally probing the molecular mechanisms underlying host-symbiont interactions in a heritable symbiosis.

IMPORTANCE

Diverse eukaryotic organisms form stable, symbiotic relationships with bacteria that provide benefits to their hosts. While these associations are often biologically important, they can be difficult to probe experimentally because intimately host-associated bacteria are difficult to access within host tissues, and most cannot be cultured. This is especially true for the intracellular, maternally inherited bacteria associated with many insects, including aphids. Here, we demonstrate that a pea aphid-associated strain of the heritable endosymbiont,
Candidatus
Fukatsuia symbiotica, can be grown outside of its host using standard microbiology techniques and can readily re-establish infection that is maintained across host generations. These artificial infections recapitulate the effects of native infections, making this host-symbiont pair a useful experimental system.
Seasonality of respiratory, enteric, and urinary viruses revealed by wastewater genomic surveillance
Authors: Smith Matthew F. , Maqsood Rabia , Sullins Regan A. , Driver Erin M. , Halden Rolf U. , Lim Efrem S.
Published: May 2024

Wastewater surveillance can reveal population-level infectious disease burden and emergent public health threats can be reliably assessed through wastewater surveillance. While molecular methods for wastewater monitoring of microorganisms have traditionally relied on PCR-based approaches, next-generation sequencing (NGS) can provide deeper insights via genomic analyses of multiple diverse pathogens. We conducted a year-long sequencing surveillance of 1,408 composite wastewater samples collected from 12 neighborhood-level access points in the greater Tempe area, Arizona, USA, and show that variation in wastewater viruses is driven by seasonal time and location. The temporal dynamics of viruses in wastewater were influenced cyclically, with the most dissimilarity between samples 23 weeks apart (i.e., winter vs summer, spring vs fall). We identified diverse urinary and enteric viruses including polyomaviruses, astroviruses, and noroviruses, and showed that their genotypes/subtypes shifted across seasons. We show that while wastewater data of certain respiratory viruses like severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) strongly correlate with clinical case rates, laboratory-reported case incidences were discordant with surges of high viral load in wastewater for other viruses like human coronavirus 229E. These results demonstrate the utility of wastewater sequencing for informing decision-making in public health.

IMPORTANCE

Wastewater surveillance can provide insights into the spread of pathogens in communities. Advances in next-generation sequencing (NGS) methodologies allow for more precise detection of viruses in wastewater. Long-term wastewater surveillance of viruses is an important tool for public health preparedness. This system can act as a public health observatory that gives real-time early warning for infectious disease outbreaks and improved response times.
SFTSV nucleoprotein mediates DNA sensor cGAS degradation to suppress cGAS-dependent antiviral responses
Authors: Jiang Ze-zheng , Chu Min , Yan Li-na , Zhang Wen-kang , Li Bang , Xu Jiao , Zhao Zhong-xin , Han Hui-Ju , Zhou Chuan-min , Yu Xue-jie
Published: May 2024

Cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS) is an important DNA pattern recognition receptor that senses double-stranded DNA derived from invading pathogens or self DNA in cytoplasm, leading to an antiviral interferon response. A tick-borne Bunyavirus, severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome virus (SFTSV), is an RNA virus that causes a severe emerging viral hemorrhagic fever in Asia with a high case fatality rate of up to 30%. However, it is unclear whether cGAS interacts with SFTSV infection. In this study, we found that SFTSV infection upregulated cGAS RNA transcription and protein expression, indicating that cGAS is an important innate immune response against SFTSV infection. The mechanism of cGAS recognizing SFTSV is by cGAS interacting with misplaced mitochondrial DNA in the cytoplasm. Depletion of mitochondrial DNA significantly inhibited cGAS activation under SFTSV infection. Strikingly, we found that SFTSV nucleoprotein (N) induced cGAS degradation in a dose-dependent manner. Mechanically, N interacted with the 161-382 domain of cGAS and linked the cGAS to LC3. The cGAS-N-LC3 trimer was targeted to N-induced autophagy, and the cGAS was degraded in autolysosome. Taken together, our study discovered a novel antagonistic mechanism of RNA viruses, SFTSV is able to suppress the cGAS-dependent antiviral innate immune responses through N-hijacking cGAS into N-induced autophagy. Our results indicated that SFTSV N is an important virulence factor of SFTSV in mediating host antiviral immune responses.

IMPORTANCE

Severe fever with thrombocytopenia syndrome virus (SFTSV) is a tick-borne RNA virus that is widespread in East and Southeast Asian countries with a high fatality rate of up to 30%. Up to now, many cytoplasmic pattern recognition receptors, such as RIG-I, MDA5, and SAFA, have been reported to recognize SFTSV genomic RNA and trigger interferon-dependent antiviral responses. However, current knowledge is not clear whether SFTSV can be recognized by DNA sensor cyclic GMP-AMP synthase (cGAS). Our study demonstrated that cGAS could recognize SFTSV infection via ectopic mitochondrial DNA, and the activated cGAS-stimulator of interferon genes signaling pathway could significantly inhibit SFTSV replication. Importantly, we further uncovered a novel mechanism of SFTSV to inhibit innate immune responses by the degradation of cGAS. cGAS was degraded in N-induced autophagy. Collectively, this study illustrated a novel virulence factor of SFTSV to suppress innate immune responses through autophagy-dependent cGAS degradation.
Electronic Focus Steering Capabilities of a Diagnostic-Type Linear Ultrasound Array Designed for High Power Therapy and Its Visualization
Authors: Nartov F. A. , Williams R. P. , Khokhlova V. A.
Published: May 2024

The focus steering capabilities of a 1 MHz linear phased array transducer (64 rectangular elements, 14.8 × 51.2 mm aperture) intended for drug delivery applications in abdominal organs were assessed and compared with its design-stage computer model. Acoustic fields generated by the transducer and predicted by the models of an ideal array with uniformly vibrating elements and either a plane or a cylindrically focused surface were simulated using the Rayleigh integral and angular spectrum methods. The boundary conditions for the transducer were reconstructed from acoustic holography measurements performed for selected focusing configurations of the array and also synthesized from holography data measured for each of its individual elements. It was shown that the transducer field with electronic focus steering can be accurately synthesized based on the holography data of its elements, which significantly simplified acoustic field characterization. Variability of the power and directivity patterns of the array elements were analyzed. A twofold smaller range of electronic steering in the transverse direction for the transducer compared to its computer model is discussed.
Implementation and evaluation of a team-based electrochemistry module in a large undergraduate class
Authors: Nemtsov Lidia A. , Booker Christina J.
Published: May 2024

Introductory chemistry courses at the undergraduate level offer students a foundation in chemistry principles and an opportunity to develop problem-solving skills. These principles and skill sets are widely applicable across disciplines, and thus first year chemistry courses are a gateway for many programs in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). While first-year chemistry courses are essential for STEM students, the resulting large-enrollment classes in universities can lead to challenges in implementing active learning and in helping students to reach the course learning outcomes. The evolving field of chemistry education research (CER) offers data and insight for improving teaching and learning strategies at the undergraduate level. We propose and evaluate an electrochemistry team-based problem-solving module as an active learning component of a large, first-year, blended chemistry course. In this paper, we explore the process for developing the module and evaluate this learning approach through focus groups, a large class survey, and student experience interviews. Through a preliminary case study approach, our findings suggest the interactive module is useful for enhancing conceptual understanding and problem-solving in chemistry, and improving academic confidence in electrochemistry learning outcomes. Moreover, students valued their engagement with the team-based problem-solving modules as an opportunity to build community, learn collaboratively, and successfully approach relevant problems.
Production of fully-heavy tetraquark states through the double parton scattering mechanism in pp and pA collisions
Authors: Abreu L. M. , Carvalho F. , Oliveira J. V. C. , Gonçalves V. P.
Published: May 2024

The production of fully-heavy tetraquark states in proton–proton (pp) and proton–nucleus (pA) collisions at the center-of-mass energies of the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) and at the Future Circular Collider (FCC) is investigated considering that these states are produced through the double parton scattering mechanism. We estimate the cross sections for the$$T_{4c},$$T4c,$$T_{4b}$$T4band$$T_{2b2c}$$T2b2cstates and present predictions forpp, pCaandpPbcollisions considering the rapidity ranges covered by central and forward detectors. We demonstrate that the cross sections forpAcollisions are enhanced in comparison to thepppredictions scaled by the atomic number. Moreover, our results indicate that a search of these exotic states is, in principle, feasible in the future runs of the LHC and FCC.
Neural network design for non-Newtonian Fe3O4–blood nanofluid flow modulated by electroosmosis and peristalsis
Authors: Akbar Y. , Huang S. , Alshamrani A. , Alam M. M.
Published: May 2024

In this study, we present a novel approach that utilizes the Levenberg–Marquardt algorithm (LMA) based on artificial neural networks (ANNs) to evaluate the flow characteristics of a thermally evolved blood-based nanofluid in the presence of peristalsis and electroosmosis. The Casson fluid model is employed to govern the non-Newtonian characteristics observed in the flow of blood. In addition, the thermal properties of the nanofluidic medium in contact with platelet magnetite nanomaterials are also studied in detail. Further, the effects of thermal radiation, thermal buoyancy force, magnetic field and Joule heating are also given due consideration. The mathematically formulated two-dimensional equations describing the flow of Casson liquid are brought into their dimensionless form under the lubrication theory. A dataset for the proposed ANN models is generated to explore various scenarios of the fluidic model by varying the pertinent parameters using NDSolve in Mathematica. The computational approach utilizing LMA is deployed across three distinct phases of performance assessment, distributing the data into training, testing and validation sets at the proportions of 80%, 10% and 10%, respectively. This implementation involves the utilization of 10 hidden neurons. The utilization of regression analysis for testing, mean-squared error calculation, error histograms and correlation assessment in numerical replications of the ANNs is also examined to verify their capability, accuracy, validity and effectiveness. This study is crucial for understanding the peristaltic blood transportation in small blood vessels of living organisms.
Integrated geological and geophysical workflow for structural modelling: a case study from the contractional foothills zone of the Colombian Eastern Cordillera
Authors: Becerra-Bayona Carlos Andrés , Mora Andrés
Published: May 2024

In fold-and-thrust belts where there is a high degree of structural complexity, artificial geometrical distortions are often present on seismic reflection profiles. These need to be minimized during modelling. We document a workflow in which depth mapping, velocity model building, well calibration and cross-section balancing are integrated into the seismic interpretation process to generate trustworthy structural models in complex zones. The proposed methodology is exemplified by a case study from the foothills zone of the Colombian Eastern Cordillera. In addition, sequential kinematic restoration of the modelled structure allowed an evaluation to be made of hydrocarbon migration routes during the period between the Oligocene and the middle Miocene. Following the previously mentioned workflow, we document a failed exploratory case study where all elements of the petroleum system are present except the trap. In this context, the documented case is a typical velocity pull-up. From this and published case studies, we conclude that in Andean settings and probably most on land contractional-foothill settings, the use of seismic images only does not provide enough evidence for the presence of traps and additional surface geological signatures must be documented. The proposed workflow therefore appears to be a useful tool for evaluating the exploration risk in structurally complex fold-and-thrust belt settings.
The Problem with the Trolley Problem and the Need for Systems Thinking
Authors: Steen Marc
Published: May 2024

Routes toward more deliberation in technology development.
Now, Later, and Lasting: 10 Priorities for AI Research, Policy, and Practice
Authors: Horvitz Eric , Conitzer Vincent , McIlraith Sheila , Stone Peter
Published: May 2024

Shaping the future of artificial intelligence.
Mobility Data Science: Perspectives and Challenges
Authors: Mokbel Mohamed , Sakr Mahmoud , Xiong Li , Züfle Andreas , Almeida Jussara , Anderson Taylor , Aref Walid , Andrienko Gennady , Andrienko Natalia , Cao Yang , Chawla Sanjay , Cheng Reynold , Chrysanthis Panos , Fei Xiqi , Ghinita Gabriel , Graser Anita , Gunopulos Dimitrios , Jensen Christian S. , Kim Joon-Seok , Kim Kyoung-Sook , Kröger Peer , Krumm John , Lauer Johannes , Magdy Amr , Nascimento Mario , Ravada Siva , Renz Matthias , Sacharidis Dimitris , Salim Flora , Sarwat Mohamed , Schoemans Maxime , Shahabi Cyrus , Speckmann Bettina , Tanin Egemen , Teng Xu , Theodoridis Yannis , Torp Kristian , Trajcevski Goce , van Kreveld Marc , Wenk Carola , Werner Martin , Wong Raymond , Wu Song , Xu Jianqiu , Youssef Moustafa , Zeinalipour Demetris , Zhang Mengxuan , Zimányi Esteban
Published: May 2024

Mobility data captures the locations of moving objects such as humans, animals, and cars. With the availability of Global Positioning System (GPS)–equipped mobile devices and other inexpensive location-tracking technologies, mobility data is collected ubiquitously. In recent years, the use of mobility data has demonstrated a significant impact in various domains, including traffic management, urban planning, and health sciences. In this article, we present the domain of mobility data science. Towards a unified approach to mobility data science, we present a pipeline having the following components: mobility data collection, cleaning, analysis, management, and privacy. For each of these components, we explain how mobility data science differs from general data science, we survey the current state-of-the-art, and describe open challenges for the research community in the coming years.
MRI Scoring Systems for Predicting Isocitrate Dehydrogenase Mutation and Chromosome 1p/19q Codeletion in Adult-type Diffuse Glioma Lacking Contrast Enhancement
Authors: Kang Koung Mi , Song Jiyoung , Choi Yunhee , Park Chanrim , Park Ji Eun , Kim Ho Sung , Park Sung-Hye , Park Chul-Kee , Choi Seung Hong
Published: May 2024

Simple scoring systems using standard clinical MRI were developed and validated for predicting isocitrate dehydrogenase and 1p/19q codeletion status in adult-type diffuse gliomas lacking contrast enhancement.
Syncope vs. Seizure: Ictal Bradycardia and Ictal Asystole
Authors: Ouchida Sumika , Parratt Kaitlyn , Nikpour Armin , Fairbrother Greg
Published: May 2024

Background. Ictal arrhythmia is a rare condition that causes arrhythmic manifestations induced by epileptic seizures, including asystole or bradycardia. Ictal asystole (IA) is a very rare condition found in patients undergoing video‐encephalography (EEG) monitoring. It is often related to temporal lobe epilepsy and can cause syncope, which can lead to injury or even death. Case Presentation. Two patients with epilepsy showed symptoms of syncope. Both patients underwent 4‐day ambulatory EEG tests and were diagnosed with IA. Following the tests, the patients were implanted with a permanent pacemaker, and one of them underwent a temporal lobectomy. As a result of these procedures, the patients experienced a reduction in episodes of symptomatic syncope. Conclusion. Patients with ictal asystole and symptomatic ictal bradycardia are at increased risk of falls due to seizures. Although there are no specific guidelines for managing this condition, antiseizure medications, epilepsy surgery, and cardiac pacemaker implantation have been effective treatments.