bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Report from a randomized control trial: improved alignment between circadian biology and sleep–wake behavior as a mechanism of depression symptom improvement in evening‐type adolescents with depressive symptoms
Authors: Asarnow Lauren D. , Soehner Adriane , Dolsen Emily , Dong Lulu , Harvey Allison G.
Published: August 2023

Study objectives

An evening circadian preference is common among adolescents. It is characterized by a behavioral predilection for later sleep and wake timing and is associated with higher rates of Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). The present study aims to (a) test the effectiveness of a cognitive behavioral sleep intervention (Transdiagnostic Sleep and Circadian Intervention; TranS‐C) in a sample of adolescents with an evening circadian preference and clinically significant depressive symptoms and (b) evaluate improved alignment between circadian biology and sleep–wake behavior as a potential mechanism in the relationship between sleep and depression symptom improvement.

Methods

Adolescents with an evening circadian preference and clinically significant depressive symptoms were randomized to receive TranS‐C (n = 24) or a psychoeducation condition (PE; n = 18). Alignment between circadian biology and sleep–wake behavior was measured using objective biological measurement. Measures of sleep and circadian rhythm were taken at pre‐ and posttreatment, and depression symptoms were measured at pre‐ and posttreatment and 6‐ and 12‐month follow‐up.

Results

Mixed effects modeling revealed that compared with an active control condition, TranS‐C resulted in a significant reduction in MDD severity at 12‐month follow‐up. A MacArthur mediation analysis conducted to explore alignment between circadian biology and sleep–wake behavior as a mediator of depression severity reduction through 12‐month follow‐up revealed a significant interaction between change in alignment between circadian biology and sleep–wake behavior and treatment arm, indicating that improved alignment between circadian biology and sleep–wake behavior at posttreatment was associated with improvements in depression outcomes at 12‐month follow‐up under the treatment condition.

Conclusions

These results provide novel evidence for improved alignment between circadian biology and sleep–wake behavior as a specific mechanism of depression improvement, provide key clues into the complex relationship between sleep and depression, and have significant clinical implications for adolescents with depression.
Stored product pest Nemapogon variatella (Clemens): Identification of sex pheromone, putative antagonist and mitotype characterization
Authors: Radžiutė Sandra , Orlovskytė Svetlana , Būdienė Jurga , Blažytė‐Čereškienė Laima , Bumbulytė Gabrielė , Būda Vincas
Published: August 2023

Nemapogon variatella (Clemens) (Lepidoptera: Tineidae) is a worldwide widespread stored product pest that damages grain, dried fruits and mushrooms. The most powerful and environmentally friendly tool for insect pest monitoring and control is pheromone application. In our study, we revealed for the first time that the females of N. variatella release (3Z,13Z)‐octadecadien‐1‐ol – a single compound that activates olfactory receptors in the antenna of conspecific males. These data allow to assign this compound, which has been known as an attractant for males only, to the category of sex pheromones of N. variatella moths. Males' olfactory system is sensitive not only to the sex pheromone compound but also to (3E,13Z)‐octadecadien‐1‐ol as well. (3E,13Z)‐octadecadien‐1‐ol is attributed to putative pheromone antagonists. During the analysis of genetic diversity, six mitotypes of N. variatella CO1‐5′ were detected and preliminary named Mit1–Mit6. The obtained high haplotype diversity (Hd = 0.796) and low nucleotide diversity (Pi = 0.007) suggest that this species may have undergone a recent population expansion.
Annual report of the Committee on Gynecologic Oncology, the Japan Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology: Annual Patient Report for 2020 and Annual Treatment Report for 2015
Authors: Yoshino Kiyoshi , Kurita Tomoko , Takahashi Fumiaki , Nagase Satoru ,   Board members of the 2022 Committee on Gynecologic Oncology of the Japan Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology
Published: August 2023

Aim

To provide information including the trend of gynecological malignancies in Japan, we hereby present the annual patient report for 2020 and the Annual Treatment Report for 2015, on the outcomes of patients who started treatment in 2015.

Methods

The Japan Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology maintains an annual tumor registry, where information on gynecological malignancies from various participating institutions is gathered. The data of patients whose treatment with gynecologic malignancies was initiated in 2020 were analyzed retrospectively. Survival of the patients who started treatment with cervical, endometrial, and ovarian cancer in 2015 was analyzed by using the Kaplan–Meier, log‐rank, and Wilcoxson tests.

Results

Treatment was initiated in 2020 for 7689 patients with cervical cancer, 13 113 with endometrial cancer, 8004 with ovarian, tubal, and peritoneal cancer, 2152 with ovarian borderline tumors, and with the others (260 vulvar cancer, 157 vaginal cancer, 464 uterine sarcoma, 50 uterine adenosarcoma, 136 trophoblastic diseases). This clinicopathological information was summarized as the patient annual report. The 5‐year survival rates of the patients with cervical cancer were 92.3%, 76.2%, 56.5%, and 32.2% for Stages I, II, III, and IV, respectively. The 5‐year survival rates for the patients with endometrial cancer were 93.9%, 87.6%, 71.4%, and 29.3% for Stages I, II, III, and IV, respectively. The 5‐year survival rates for the patients with ovarian cancer (surface epithelial‐stromal tumors) were 91.7%, 80.6%, 50.8%, and 39.7% for Stages I, II, III, and IV, respectively.

Conclusion

The annual tumor report is an important survey that provides knowledge on gynecological malignancy trends in Japan.
Gaining in impacts by leveraging the policy mix: Evidence from the European Cohesion Policy in more developed regions
Authors: Cristofoletti Enrico , Gabriele Roberto , Giua Mara
Published: August 2023

This paper investigates how the overall impact of the European Cohesion Policy depends on the composition of the regional investment in Hard (infrastructure) and Soft (business and technical support) projects. The study employs a generalized propensity score (GPS) analysis in a multidimensional treatment context. In particular, the two dimensions considered are given by the Hard and Soft investments. The GPS estimation is based on a set of relevant idiosyncratic features of the regions. The second step estimates a dose–response function in a two‐dimensional setting. The results confirm the existence of nonlinearities in the effect of different amounts of funds, but more importantly, show a degree of complementarity between Hard and Soft investment and that for policymakers, it is crucial to exploit such features to achieve more significant impact. The EU's more developed regions could have achieved a doubled GDP p.c. growth rate by pursuing a policy mix where Hard investments are reduced in favor of Soft investments. This improvement is comparable to the one obtained by at least doubling the available resources. The findings add to the evidence collected on the impact of the Cohesion Policy, suggesting a shift of the debate from the quantity to the quality of the expenditure pursued under the umbrella of territorial policies.
Solving the shortage of psychiatric – mental health nurses in acute inpatient care settings
Authors: Frawley Timmy , Culhane Aisling
Published: August 2023

Introduction

This debate essay proposes possible remedies to the shortage of nurses in acute inpatient mental health settings and draws inspiration from a Journal of Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing editorial, Glascott and McKeown (2022, 29, 767).

Aim

The aim is to stimulate debate within the profession. The art and science of nursing continues to develop but staffing shortages in key areas undermine practice, leadership, academic and policy efforts to improve the quality of care for people attending services.

Method

This is a debate essay which draws on the authors’ experience and presents ideas based on extant literature.

Results

Organisational, professional and wider societal challenges are explored. Practice‐based solutions as well as recommendations for improving the terms and conditions of employment of nurses are made. Opportunities which may empower the nursing profession are promulgated.

Discussion

It is intended that this paper will provoke further discourse and may reflect the ‘call to action’ advocated by Glascott and McKeown (Journal of Psychiatric and Mental Health Nursing, 2022, 29, 767).

Implications for Practice

While the focus is on acute inpatient mental health nursing, the ideas presented may have an application to wider nursing groups or a wider cadre of public sector workers.
Seaweed biogeochemistry: Global assessment of C:N and C:P ratios and implications for ocean afforestation
Authors: Sheppard Emily J. , Hurd Catriona L. , Britton Damon D. , Reed Daniel C. , Bach Lennart T.
Published: August 2023

Algal carbon‐to‐nitrogen (C:N) and carbon‐to‐phosphorus (C:P) ratios are fundamental for understanding many oceanic biogeochemical processes, such as nutrient flux and climate regulation. We synthesized literature data (444 species, >400 locations) and collected original samples from Tasmania, Australia (51 species, 10 locations) to update the global ratios of seaweed carbon‐to‐nitrogen (C:N) and carbon‐to‐phosphorus (C:P). The updated global mean molar ratio for seaweed C:N is 20 (ranging from 6 to 123) and for C:P is 801 (ranging from 76 to 4102). The C:N and C:P ratios were significantly influenced by seawater inorganic nutrient concentrations and seasonality. Additionally, C:N ratios varied by phyla. Brown seaweeds (Ochrophyta, Phaeophyceae) had the highest mean C:N of 27.5 (range: 7.6–122.5), followed by green seaweeds (Chlorophyta) of 17.8 (6.2–54.3) and red seaweeds (Rhodophyta) of 14.8 (5.6–77.6). We used the updated C:N and C:P values to compare seaweed tissue stoichiometry with the most recently reported values for plankton community stoichiometry. Our results show that seaweeds have on average 2.8 and 4.0 times higher C:N and C:P than phytoplankton, indicating seaweeds can assimilate more carbon in their biomass for a given amount of nutrient resource. The stoichiometric comparison presented herein is central to the discourse on ocean afforestation (the deliberate replacement of phytoplankton with seaweeds to enhance the ocean biological carbon sink) by contributing to the understanding of the impact of nutrient reallocation from phytoplankton to seaweeds under large‐scale seaweed cultivation.
Term structure modeling with overnight rates beyond stochastic continuity
Authors: Fontana Claudio , Grbac Zorana , Schmidt Thorsten
Published: August 2023

Overnight rates, such as the Secured Overnight Financing Rate (SOFR) in the United States, are central to the current reform of interest rate benchmarks. A striking feature of overnight rates is the presence of jumps and spikes occurring at predetermined dates due to monetary policy interventions and liquidity constraints. This corresponds to stochastic discontinuities (i.e., discontinuities occurring at ex ante known points in time) in their dynamics. In this work, we propose a term structure modeling framework based on overnight rates and characterize absence of arbitrage in a generalized Heath–Jarrow–Morton (HJM) setting. We extend the classical short‐rate approach to accommodate stochastic discontinuities, developing a tractable setup driven by affine semimartingales. In this context, we show that simple specifications allow to capture stylized facts of the jump behavior of overnight rates. In a Gaussian setting, we provide explicit valuation formulas for bonds and caplets. Furthermore, we investigate hedging in the sense of local risk‐minimization when the underlying term structures feature stochastic discontinuities.
From Silicon Valley to the Levant: Innovation in the Eastern Mediterranean
Authors: Grigoriadis Ioannis N. , Dervişler Olgu
Published: August 2023

Market economies in the eastern Mediterranean are not counted among ideal‐typical innovators. But this picture may be changing. This article explores the emerging innovation systems in the eastern Mediterranean by examining recent data and the literatures on varieties of capitalism and innovation systems. Through the cases of Cyprus, Israel, and Turkey, the study argues that the varieties of capitalism framework, by focusing on performance at the macro level, disregards the subnational performance of these outlier markets, which have promising regional or local innovation systems. Fostering cooperation among these emerging innovation systems could become a valuable instrument for overcoming deeply rooted conflicts in the eastern Mediterranean, which has turned into a “crisis zone” due to recent energy discoveries.
Is evidence‐based L2 pedagogy achievable? The research–practice dialogue in grammar instruction
Authors: Hwang Hyun–Bin
Published: August 2023

This study investigated the influence of teachers’ experience with research‐related activities on their current grammar teaching practice and research engagement for second language (L2) grammar instruction. Survey responses were collected from 701 Korean L2 English teachers and were analyzed with exploratory factor analyses and logistic regressions. This study found four major findings, irrespective of the level of teachers’ prior experience with research‐related activities. First, there was a marked discrepancy between teachers’ grammar instruction and pedagogical recommendations of form‐focused instruction studies. Second, in‐class environment was the most influential element in shaping their grammar instruction. Third, more research‐related activities in the past did not lead to noticeable research engagement in the present. Fourth, lack of external support was the biggest hindrance to teachers’ research engagement to implement evidence‐based grammar instruction. However, prior research‐related experience appeared to nudge teachers into acknowledging the value of research while also causing them to be more cognizant of the limited relevance of research to their grammar teaching practice. I argue that the irrelevance of research can be a more serious obstacle to teachers’ research engagement in the long term and L2 pedagogy literacy of researchers is a prerequisite for research‐informed pedagogy to be achievable.
Development and testing of a questionnaire assessing knowledge, attitudes, and practices to prevent unplanned oral extubation
Authors: Wang Meizhong , Pan Shiqin , Sun Lijuan , Sun Xiaolin , Ma Qin
Published: August 2023

Background

The prevention of unplanned endotracheal extubation (UEE) is significant for the critical care of intensive care unit (ICU) patients.

Aim

To develop a questionnaire to assess the knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) of the nurses regarding of the prevention of UEE in ICU patients with transoral endotracheal intubation (TEI) and to test the validity and reliability of the questionnaire.

Study Design

Items relevant to KAP were prepared following a literature review, and then screened using a Delphi expert consultation, pre‐test, and factor analysis. The nursing staffs in four tertiary hospitals in Qinghai, Jiangsu, Gansu, and Shandong provinces were surveyed to test the reliability and validity of the questionnaire.

Results

The questionnaire contained 76 items, including 10, 37, and 29 in the dimensions of knowledge, attitude, and practice, respectively. The scale‐level content validity index (S‐CVI) of the questionnaire was 0.96. The results of exploratory factor analysis (EFA) showed that the Kaiser–Meyer–Olkin value was 0.956, indicating that the sample was adequate and suitable for factor analysis. The result of the Bartlett spherical test was significant (p < .001), indicating that the questionnaire was suitable for further EFA. A total of six common factors were extracted by EFA with a cumulative variance interpretation rate of 85.52%, indicating that the questionnaire had good structural validity. The Cronbach's alpha was 0.981 for the whole questionnaire; and was 0.966, 0.996, and 0.981 for the dimensions of knowledge, attitude, and practice, respectively. The test–retest reliability for the questionnaire was 0.843.

Conclusions

The developed questionnaire has good reliability and validity and can be used as a scientific tool for the nursing leaders to prevent UEE in ICU patients with TEI.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

The instrument provides a theoretical reference for establishing preventive strategies and management programs in clinical practice.
Castilleja eggeri (Orobanchaceae: Pedicularideae), a new endemic species from Mexico
Authors: Francisco‐Gutiérrez Antonio , Cházaro‐Basáñez Miguel , Avendaño‐Reyes Sergio
Published: August 2023

The new species Castilleja eggeri (Orobanchaceae) is described, compared and illustrated. The species is distinguished by its reduced number of 1–5 flowers per inflorescence, decumbent stems and dissected leaves. It is distributed in a narrow and very humid area of cloud forest in the mountains of central Veracruz in eastern Mexico. It is compared with Castilleja moranensis, morphologically the most similar species. Conservation assessment classifies the species as critically endangered (CR). Also, a key and distribution map of Castilleja taxa in the state of Veracruz are provided. This species is added to the endemisms of Castilleja in Mexico, where one third of the total diversity of the genus in the Americas is found.
Validation of the NOVA score for the consumption of ultra‐processed foods by young women of Medellín, Colombia
Authors: Correa‐Madrid María Camila , Correa Guzmán Nathalia , Bergeron Gilles , Restrepo‐Mesa Sandra L. , Cediel Gustavo
Published: August 2023

Ultra‐processed foods (UPFs) are associated with deterioration in dietary quality and the development of chronic diseases. The NOVA score, developed in Brazil to assess UPF consumption quickly and inexpensively, is adapted and validated here using a sample of 203 young women from Medellín, Colombia. Food consumption was evaluated using 24‐hour dietary recall and with the NOVA‐UPF score. Food items were classified using the NOVA categories. The energy consumed from UPFs and its percentage of the total energy consumed was estimated. The association between the NOVA‐UPF score and the percentage of energy from UPF (%UPF/E) was evaluated. Both variables were categorized into quintiles and concordance was estimated using prevalence and bias‐adjusted kappa (PABAK). A regression model was used to assess the association between the NOVA‐UPF score and critical nutrients. The mean NOVA‐UPF score among study participants was 4.5, with 27% of the total energy they consumed coming from UPFs. There was a positive, linear association between the NOVA‐UPF score and %UPF/E (p < 0.001) and substantial agreement (PABAK = 0.75) in the classification of participants between UPF energy quintiles and NOVA‐UPF score quintiles. The NOVA‐UPF score was positively and significantly associated with sodium, total fat, and saturated fat intake. We conclude that the adapted NOVA‐UPF score may help monitor the consumption of UPFs among young women in Medellín.
Introduction of barnase/barstar in soybean produces a rescuable male sterility system for hybrid breeding
Authors: Szeluga Nicole , Baldrich Patricia , DelPercio Ryan , Meyers Blake C. , Frank Margaret H.
Published: August 2023

Hybrid breeding for increased vigour has been used for over a century to boost agricultural outputs without requiring higher inputs. While this approach has led to some of the most substantial gains in crop productivity, breeding barriers have fundamentally limited soybean (Glycine max) from reaping the benefits of hybrid vigour. Soybean flowers self‐pollinate prior to opening and thus are not readily amenable to outcrossing. In this study, we demonstrate that the barnase/barstar male sterility/rescue system can be used in soybean to produce hybrid seeds. By expressing the cytotoxic ribonuclease, barnase, under a tapetum‐specific promoter in soybean anthers, we are able to completely block pollen maturation, creating male sterile plants. We show that fertility can be rescued in the F1 generation of these barnase‐expressing lines when they are crossed with pollen from plants that express the barnase inhibitor, barstar. Importantly, we found that the successful rescue of male fertility is dependent on the relative dosage of barnase and barstar. When barnase and barstar were expressed under the same tapetum‐specific promoter, the F1 offspring remained male sterile. When we expressed barstar under a relatively stronger promoter than barnase, we were able to achieve a successful rescue of male fertility in the F1 generation. This work demonstrates the successful implementation of a biotechnology approach to produce fertile hybrid offspring in soybean.
Susceptibility of Eucalyptus trees to defoliation by the Eucalyptus snout beetle, Gonipterus sp. n. 2, is enhanced by high foliar contents of 1,8‐cineole, oxalic acid and sucrose and low contents of palmitic and shikimic acid
Authors: Joubert Johannes , Sivparsad Benice , Schröder Michelle , Germishuizen Ilaria , Chen Jingyuan , Hurley Brett , Allison Jeremy D. , Hammerbacher Almuth
Published: August 2023

Gonipterus sp. n. 2 (Coleoptera, Curculionidae) is an invasive, commercially important weevil that causes large‐scale defoliation of Eucalyptus trees. The weevil specifically feeds on young leaves and new shoots, thus reducing tree growth. The weevil displays a very strong preference for certain Eucalyptus genotypes, however, this behaviour and the chemistry underlying it is poorly understood, thereby complicating the selection of resistant trees. To elucidate the feeding preference of Gonipterus sp. n. 2, we assessed the relative levels of susceptibility of 62 Eucalyptus genotypes from 23 species using a laboratory choice assay. This revealed large intraspecific variation in susceptibility to weevil feeding, which for certain species, exceeded the interspecific variation. A semiquantitative metabolite profile analysis on 13 genotypes revealed strong correlations of 10 metabolites to feeding damage. The behavioural effects of the identified compounds were assessed through an in vitro feeding preference assay using artificial diets as well as under field conditions. This revealed three phagostimulants (1,8‐cineole, oxalic acid and sucrose) and two feeding deterrent compounds (shikimic acid and palmitic acid) for Gonipterus sp. n. 2. These chemical markers can be applied to tree breeding programmes for the selection of resistant genotypes to reduce damage caused by Gonipterus weevils.
Agency and responsibility: The personal and the political
Authors: Jeppsson Sofia
Published: August 2023

In this paper, I review arguments according to which harsh criminal punishments and poverty areundeservedand thereforeunjust. Such arguments come in different forms. First, one may argue thatno onedeserves to be poor or be punished, because there is no such thing as desert‐entailing moral responsibility. Second, one may argue that poor people in particular do not deserve to remain in poverty or to be punished if they commit crimes, because poor people suffer from psychological problems that undermine their agency and moral responsibility. Third, one may argue that poor and otherwise marginalized people frequently face external obstacles that prevent them from taking alternative courses of action. The first kind of argument has its place in the philosophy seminar. Psychological difficulties may be important to attend to both in personal relationships and when holding ourselves responsible. Nevertheless, I argue that neither type of argument belongs in political contexts. Moral responsibility scepticism ultimately rests on contested intuitions. Labelling certain groups of people particularly irrational, weak‐willed, or similar is belittling and disrespectful; such claims are also hard to prove, and may have the opposite effect to the intended one on people's attitudes. Arguments from external obstacles have none of these problems. Such arguments may not take us all the way to criminal justice reform, but in this context, we can supplement them with epistemic arguments and crime prevention arguments.
The prognostic impact of a high number of peritumoral alveolar macrophages in neuroendocrine carcinoma in the lung
Authors: Tanaka Takehiko , Umemura Shigeki , Miyoshi Tomohiro , Nakai Tokiko , Noritake Osamu , Suzuki Jun , Tane Kenta , Samejima Joji , Aokage Keiju , Mimaki Sachiyo , Tsuchihara Katsuya , Taki Tetsuro , Miyazaki Saori , Watanabe Reiko , Sakashita Shingo , Sakamoto Naoya , Kojima Motohiro , Goto Koichi , Ikeda Norihiko , Tsuboi Masahiro , Ishii Genichiro
Published: August 2023

Alveolar macrophages (AMs) are resident macrophages in the lungs; however, whether the number of AMs plays a role in the lung neuroendocrine tumor (NET) prognosis remains unclear. We counted the number of AMs located around the tumor (peritumoral alveolar macrophages [pAMs]) and the number of AMs located apart from the tumor (distant macrophages; dAMs). In 73 cases of neuroendocrine carcinoma (NEC: small cell lung carcinoma and large cell neuroendocrine carcinoma), the group that contained higher pAMs (≥86/μm2) revealed shorter recurrent‐free survival (RFS) than those with lower pAMs (<86/μm2) (p = 0.005). Bivariate analysis showed that the number of pAMs was an independent predictor of a poor RFS. In contrast, in the carcinoid tumor cohort (n = 29), there was no statistically significant correlation between the two groups with high and low numbers of pAMs in RFS (p = 0.113). Furthermore, we examined the correlation between genomic alterations and the number of pAMs in NEC, but no significant correlation was observed. In conclusion, the number of pAMs is a prognostic factor for NEC in the lung and pAMs may contribute to tumor progression within the peritumoral microenvironment.
Components and processes involved in retrograde signaling from chloroplast to nucleus
Authors: Agrawal Variyata , Singh Vijetna , Tripathi Bhumi Nath
Published: August 2023

Retrograde signaling conceptually means the transfer of signals from semi‐autonomous cell organelles to the nucleus to modulate nuclear gene expression. A generalized explanation is that chloroplasts are highly sensitive to environmental stimuli and quickly generate signaling molecules (retrograde signals) and transport them to the nucleus through the cytosol to reprogram nuclear gene expression for cellular/metabolic adjustments to cope with environmental fluctuations. During the past decade, substantial advancements have been made in the area of retrograde signaling, including information on putative retrograde signals. Researchers have also proposed possible mechanisms for generating retrograde signals and their transmission. However, the exact mechanisms and processes responsible for transmitting retrograde signaling from the chloroplast to the nucleus remain elusive, demanding substantial attention. This review highlights strategies employed to detect retrograde signals, their possible modes of signaling to the nucleus, and their implications for cellular processes during stress conditions. The present review also summarizes the role of ROS‐mediated retrograde signaling in plastid‐nucleus communication and its functional significance in co‐coordinating the physiological profile of plant cells.
Metabolomic profile of seminal plasma from Guzerá bulls (Bos indicus) with contrasting sperm freezability phenotypes
Authors: Rodrigues Pessoa Eduardo , Roger Vasconcelos Fábio , de Oliveira Paula‐Marinho Stelamaris , de Menezes Daloso Danilo , Damasceno Guerreiro Denise , Matias Martins Jorge André , Gomes‐Filho Enéas , Alencar Moura Arlindo
Published: August 2023

The present study evaluated the seminal plasma metabolome of Bos indicus Guzerá bulls with good (n = 4) and poor (n = 5) sperm freezability. Animals were raised in natural pasture of a ‘Caatinga’ ecosystem, in the semi‐arid region of Brazil. Seminal plasma samples were subjected to gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry and data, analysed using bioinformatics tools (Cytoscape with the MetScape plug‐in). Sixty‐two metabolites were identified in the bovine seminal plasma. Fatty acids and conjugates and organic compounds were the predominant seminal fluid metabolites, followed by carboxylic acids and derivatives, amino acids, benzenes and steroids and derivatives, carbohydrates and carbohydrate conjugates and prenol lipids. Multivariate analysis indicated a distinct separation of seminal plasma metabolomes from bulls with contrasting sperm freezability. Abundances of propanoic acid, d‐ribose and glycine were greater in the seminal plasma of bulls with good sperm freezability. Heptadecanoic acid and undecanoic acid were the predominant in bulls of poor sperm freezability. Propanoic acid is an energy source for spermatozoa and may act as an antimicrobial component in semen. Glycine acts against oxidizing and denaturing reactions. d‐ribose is also an energy source and reduces apoptosis and oxidative stress. Undecanoic acid may protect sperm against fungal damage. This study provides fundamental information approximately the seminal plasma metabolome of tropically adapted bulls and its association with sperm freezability. However, further studies with larger groups of animals are needed to validate those metabolites as markers of sperm freezability. This strategy could support the selection of sires with superior sperm cryoresistance.
Mitochondrial phylogenetics position a new Afrotropical termite species into its own subfamily, the Engelitermitinae (Blattodea: Termitidae)
Authors: Romero Arias Johanna , Hellemans Simon , Kaymak Esra , Akama Pierre D. , Bourguignon Thomas , Roisin Yves , Scheffrahn Rudolf H. , Šobotník Jan
Published: August 2023

While new species of termites are described every year, the description of species distant from every known termite species is rare. In this paper, we describe one such species, Engelitermes zambo sp.n., an African Termitidae belonging to an entirely new lineage of termites for which we create a new subfamily, Engelitermitinae subfam.n. The subfamily status of Engelitermitinae was supported by termite phylogenetic trees, including sequences from the four existing samples of E. zambo sp.n., which, albeit with low bootstrap supports, placed Engelitermes gen.n. on a long branch sister to Forficulitermes, the two of which formed the sister group of a clade comprising Cubitermitinae, Nasutitermitinae, Syntermitinae and all other Termitinae. The sister relationship between Engelitermes gen.n. and Forficulitermes is further supported by the similar gut structure of their workers. In contrast, the soldiers of Engelitermes gen.n. resemble those of Cephalotermes. Our phylogenetic analyses, including all clades of Termitinae, call for a global taxonomic revision of the Termitinae subfamily names. Finally, our study highlights that new unique termite lineages are still awaiting to be described.
Characterization of the novel HLA‐B*07:482 allele using next‐generation sequencing methods
Authors: Frassati Coralie , Basire Agnes , Chiaroni Jacques , Picard Christophe , Pedini Pascal
Published: August 2023

HLA‐B*07:482 differs from HLA‐B*07:02:01:01 allele by one nucleotide substitution in codon 285 in exon 5.
Wounding induces a peroxisomal H2O2 decrease via glycolate oxidase‐catalase switch dependent on glutamate receptor‐like channel‐supported Ca2+ signaling in plants
Authors: Li Xiangyang , Chen Linru , Zeng Xiaoyue , Wu Kaixin , Huang Jiayu , Liao Mengmeng , Xi Yue , Zhu Guohui , Zeng Xiuying , Hou Xuewen , Zhang Zhisheng , Peng Xinxiang
Published: August 2023

Sensing of environmental challenges, such as mechanical injury, by a single plant tissue results in the activation of systemic signaling, which attunes the plant's physiology and morphology for better survival and reproduction. As key signals, both calcium ions (Ca2+) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) interplay with each other to mediate plant systemic signaling. However, the mechanisms underlying Ca2+‐H2O2 crosstalk are not fully revealed. Our previous study showed that the interaction between glycolate oxidase and catalase, key enzymes of photorespiration, serves as a molecular switch (GC switch) to dynamically modulate photorespiratory H2O2 fluctuations via metabolic channeling. In this study, we further demonstrate that local wounding induces a rapid shift of the GC switch to a more interactive state in systemic leaves, resulting in a sharp decrease in peroxisomal H2O2 levels, in contrast to a simultaneous outburst of the nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidase‐derived apoplastic H2O2. Moreover, the systemic response of the two processes depends on the transmission of Ca2+ signaling, mediated by glutamate‐receptor‐like Ca2+ channels 3.3 and 3.6. Mechanistically, by direct binding and/or indirect mediation by some potential biochemical sensors, peroxisomal Ca2+ regulates the GC switch states in situ, leading to changes in H2O2 levels. Our findings provide new insights into the functions of photorespiratory H2O2 in plant systemic acclimation and an optimized systemic H2O2 signaling via spatiotemporal interplay between the GC switch and NADPH oxidases.
CFD SIMULATION AND VALIDATION FOR MIXING VENTILATION SCALED-DOWN EMPTY AIRCRAFT CABIN USING OPENFOAM
Authors: Sarmin Shahliza Azreen , Abd Razak Azli , Jerai Fauziah , Harun Mohd Khir
Published: August 2023

An investigation into the spread of the COVID-19 virus within a confined space including an aircraft cabin is essential in order to find out the mechanism. However, this is time-consuming and limited in scope, so a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulation is used instead. Therefore, a prior study and an appropriate choice of turbulence model are required before the simulation. The main objective of this study is to validate and evaluate the results predicted by the Open Source Field Operation and Manipulation (OpenFOAM) software through comparison with the experimental data from the literature which was conducted using particle image velocimetry (PIV) measurement. Three different Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes turbulence models were selected; Re-normalisation Group k - ɛ (RNG), Realizable k - ɛ (RLZ) and Low Reynold Number (LRN) to simulate a mixing ventilation system of a scaled-down model of empty aircraft cabin. In the RNG and LRN model cases, a fairly large circulation flows were observed on the right and left sides of the model representing the passenger area. The results were also evaluated quantitatively using the factor of two of observations (FAC2) for the velocity components and turbulent kinetic energy (TKE) with root mean square error (RMSE) for the former and normalised mean square errors (NMSE) for the latter.    The simulation results showed that RNG and LRN are capable of predicting the flow field well. However, for TKE prediction LRN performed better than RNG which concluded that LRN is the suitable turbulence model in simulating flow fields in investigated case.
The normal distribution of the hypoxic ventilatory response and methodological impacts: a meta‐analysis and computational investigation
Authors: Oeung Britney , Pham Kathy , Olfert I. Mark , Zerda David J. De La , Gaio Eduardo , Powell Frank L. , Heinrich Erica C.
Published: August 2023

The hypoxic ventilatory response (HVR) is the increase in breathing in response to reduced arterial oxygen pressure. Over several decades, studies have revealed substantial population‐level differences in the magnitude of the HVR as well as significant inter‐individual variation. In particular, low HVRs occur frequently in Andean high‐altitude native populations. However, our group conducted hundreds of HVR measures over several years and commonly observed low responses in sea‐level populations as well. As a result, we aimed to determine the normal HVR distribution, whether low responses were common, and to what extent variation in study protocols influence these findings. We conducted a comprehensive search of the literature and examined the distributions of HVR values across 78 studies that utilized step‐down/steady‐state or progressive hypoxia methods in untreated, healthy human subjects. Several studies included multiple datasets across different populations or experimental conditions. In the final analysis, 72 datasets reported mean HVR values and 60 datasets provided raw HVR datasets. Of the 60 datasets reporting raw HVR values, 35 (58.3%) were at least moderately positively skewed (skew > 0.5), and 21 (35%) were significantly positively skewed (skew > 1), indicating that lower HVR values are common. The skewness of HVR distributions does not appear to be an artifact of methodology or the unit with which the HVR is reported. Further analysis demonstrated that the use of step‐down hypoxia versus progressive hypoxia methods did not have a significant impact on average HVR values, but that isocapnic protocols produced higher HVRs than poikilocapnic protocols. This work provides a reference for expected HVR values and illustrates substantial inter‐individual variation in this key reflex. Finally, the prevalence of low HVRs in the general population provides insight into our understanding of blunted HVRs in high‐altitude adapted groups.

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Key points

The hypoxic ventilatory response (HVR) plays a crucial role in determining an individual's predisposition to hypoxia‐related pathologies.

There is notable variability in HVR sensitivity across individuals as well as significant population‐level differences.

We report that the normal distribution of the HVR is positively skewed, with a significant prevalence of low HVR values amongst the general healthy population. We also find no significant impact of the experimental protocol used to induce hypoxia, although HVR is greater with isocapnic versus poikilocapnic methods.

These results provide insight into the normal distribution of the HVR, which could be useful in clinical decisions of diseases related to hypoxaemia.

Additionally, the low HVR values found within the general population provide insight into the genetic adaptations found in populations residing in high altitudes.
Two new species of arboreal Scapheremaeus (Acari, Oribatida, Cymbaeremaeidae) from Vietnam
Authors: Ermilov Sergey G. , Salavatulin Vladimir M.
Published: August 2023

This study is based on Scapheremaeus materials collected from leaves, branches and bark from Haldina cordifolia and Dipterocarpus alatus in Cat Tien National Park, southern Vietnam in November–December 2022. Six species are recorded; of these, two new species—S. kudrini sp. nov. and S. globulus sp. nov.—are described, based on adults.
Contribution to systematics of the Bdelloidea (Acari: Trombidiformes: Prostigmata) from Semnan Province, Iran, with description a new species of Scirula
Authors: Paktinat-Saeij Saeid , Davari Milad , Hakimitabar Masoud
Published: August 2023

A new species of Scirula, S. artemisae sp. nov. (Acari: Cunaxidae), is described and illustrated based on females collected from Semnan Province, Iran. In addition, we report for the second time Cyta kreiteri Barbar & Ueckermann, 2017 and Armascirus hastus Shiba, 1986, as well as update an identification key for known species of Scirula.
Management of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS)-laden wastewater sludge in Maine: Perspectives on a wicked problem
Authors: Moavenzadeh Ghaznavi Simin , Zimmerman Charity , Shea Molly E. , MacRae Jean D. , Peckenham John M. , Noblet Caroline L. , Apul Onur G. , Kopec A. Dianne
Published: August 2023

This article discusses the challenges and potential solutions for managing wastewater sludge that contains per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), using the experience in Maine as a guide toward addressing the issue nationally. Traditional wastewater treatment, designed to remove excess organic waste and nutrients, does not eliminate persistent toxic pollutants like PFAS, instead partitioning the chemicals between discharged effluent and the remaining solids in sludge. PFAS chemistry, the molecular size, the alkyl chain length, fluorine saturation, the charge of the head group, and the composition of the surrounding matrix influence PFAS partitioning between soil and water. Land application of sludge, incineration, and storage in a landfill are the traditional management options. Land application of Class B sludge on agricultural fields in Maine peaked in the 1990s, totaling over 2 × 106 cu yd over a 40-year period and has contaminated certain food crops and animal forage, posing a threat to the food supply and the environment. Additional Class A EQ (Exceptional Quality) composted sludge was also applied to Maine farmland. The State of Maine banned the land application of wastewater sludge in August 2022. Most sludge was sent to the state-owned Juniper Ridge Landfill, which accepted 94 270 tons of dewatered sludge in 2022, a 14% increase over 2019. Between 2019 and 2022, the sum of perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) concentrations in sludge sent to the landfill ranged from 1.2 to 104.9 ng/g dw. In 2022, the landfill generated 71.6 × 106 l of leachate. The concentration of sum of six PFAS in the leachate increased sixfold between 2021 and 2022, reaching 2 441 ng/l. The retention of PFAS within solid-waste landfills and the potential for long-term release of PFAS through liners into groundwater require ongoing monitoring. Thermal treatment, incineration, or pyrolysis can theoretically mineralize PFAS at high temperatures, yet the strong C–F bond and reactivity of fluorine require extreme temperatures for complete mineralization. Future alternatives may include interim options such as preconditioning PFAS with nonpolar solvents prior to immobilization in landfills, removing PFAS from leachate, and interrupting the cycle of PFAS moving from landfill, via leachate, to wastewater treatment, and then back to the landfill via sludge. Long-term solutions may involve destructive technologies such as electron beam irradiation, electrochemical advanced oxidation, or hydrothermal liquefaction. The article highlights the need for innovative and sustainable solutions for managing PFAS-contaminated wastewater sludge.
Interfacial shear rheology of glassy polymers at liquid interfaces
Authors: Alexandris Stelios , Ashkenazi Daniel , Vermant Jan , Vlassopoulos Dimitris , Gottlieb Moshe
Published: August 2023

When surface-active molecules or particles assemble at fluid–fluid interfaces, these interfaces acquire complex rheological properties that are of importance in processes that involve flow and deformation of interfaces. Although much progress has been made, interfacial rheology measurements and, in particular, the measurement of interfacial rheological properties of polymers at the air-water interface remain challenging. These are due to weak interactions with the water subphase, the polymer backbone conformation, the glass transition of the interfacial layer, and memory effects. In the present work, we describe systematic rheological measurements of polymer-laden interfaces. The measurements were performed with four different interfacial shear rheometers that can be classified into two types: rheometers in which the surface pressure can be controlled independently, and devices based on fixtures mounted on standard rotational rheometers and lacking control of the surface pressure. We use poly(tert-butyl methacrylate) and poly(methyl methacrylate), two high glass transition temperature, hydrophobic polymers anchored to the water subphase by means of the acrylate group. Using a Langmuir–Pockels (LP) trough, we identify the transition of the polymer monolayer from a viscous to a solid elastic or soft-glassy interface as the polymer surface concentration increases by compression. Then, we compare the linear viscoelastic properties of the interface as obtained by each rheometer. Our results show poor reproducibility and comparability of the rheological data as obtained by different rheometers for the same polymer. This is mainly due to differences in the method used to prepare the layers. For LP-based devices, spreading under dilute conditions and subsequent compression yields layers of compressed glassy blobs with reproducible results. On the other hand, for devices without surface pressure control, deposition of the amount needed to reach a desired concentration may lead to the formation of ill-defined layers resulting in irreproducible data. Furthermore, we find that only when spreading the polymer to form a dilute layer and then controlling the surface pressure by compression, we can clearly distinguish the fluidlike from solidlike interfaces, and a clear correlation is observed between the surface pressure (or interfacial polymer concentration) and the rheological properties of the interface.
Exhaustive Intermittent Cycling Preferentially Decreases Explosive Over Maximal Voluntary Torque in the Knee Extensors, With No Difference Between Normoxia and Moderate to Severe Hypoxia
Authors: Girard Olivier , Racinais Sébastien
Published: August 2023

Purpose: To compare the effects of graded hypoxia during exhaustive intermittent cycling on subsequent rapid and maximal torque-production capacity. Methods: Fifteen well-trained cyclists repeated intermittent cycling bouts (15 s at 30% of anaerobic power reserve; rest = 45 s) until exhaustion at sea level (FiO2 ∼0.21/end-exercise arterial oxygen saturation ∼96%), moderate hypoxia (FiO2 ∼0.16/∼90%), and severe hypoxia (FiO2 ∼0.12/∼79%). Rapid (rate of torque development [RTD]) and maximal isometric torque-production capacities of the knee extensors were assessed at baseline (visit 1) and exhaustion (visits 2–4). Results: Exercise capacity decreased with hypoxia severity (39 [30], 22 [13], and 13 [6] cycle efforts in sea level, moderate hypoxia, and severe hypoxia, respectively; P = .002). Changes in maximal-voluntary-contraction torque between baseline and postexercise in all conditions were not statistically significant (pooled values: −2.6% [5.7%]; P = .162). Peak RTD measured postexercise was reduced below baseline in all conditions (–21.5% [5.1%]; P ≤ .015). Compared with baseline, absolute RTD values were lower at 0- to 30-millisecond (–35.1% [5.3%], P ≤ .020), 0- to 50-millisecond (–40.0% [3.9%], P ≤ .002), 0- to 100-millisecond (–30.7% [3.7%], P ≤ .001), and 0- to 200-millisecond (–18.1% [2.4%], P ≤ .004) time intervals in all conditions. Conclusions: Exhaustive intermittent cycling induces substantial yet comparable impairments in RTD of knee extensors between normoxia and moderate to severe hypoxia.