bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CARD9 mutations in patients with fungal infections: An update from the last 5 years
Authors: Dantas Maryanna da Silva , Cintra Maria Eduarda Carvalho , Lucini Fabíola , Venturini James , de Souza Gleyce Hellen de Almeida , Rossato Luana
Published: March 2024

Background

Autosomal recessive deficiency in the caspase recruitment domain‐containing protein 9 (CARD9) is a congenital immunological condition that leads to susceptibility to mucocutaneous and invasive fungal infections. There is growing incidence of fungal infections in patients with CARD9 deficiency, a phenomenon that is increasingly recognised.

Objectives

This study aimed to assess the frequency, geographic distribution and nature of mutations in patients with CARD9 deficiency, based on published papers in the literature until March 2023.

Methods

We swiftly conducted a study to pinpoint every documented instance of fungal infections arising from CARD9 deficiency. We selected case reports from the databases of PubMed, Embase, Scopus and Google Scholar spanning the period from October 2009 to March 2023.

Results

We analysed 90 cases of fungal infections and identified 32 mutations in the CARD9 gene. Notably, the homozygous (HMZ) p.Q295X (c.883C > T) mutation was associated with an increased risk of candidiasis. In contrast, the HMZ p.Q289X (c.865C > T) mutation is linked to a higher risk of dermatophytosis. We observed differences in the geographical distribution of these mutations. The primary mutations found in African patients differ from those in Asian patients. Specifically, Asian patients exhibit a broader spectrum of CARD9 mutations than African patients.

Conclusions

The diversity of mutations observed in the 90 cases revealed 32 distinct variations, emphasising the unique genetic alterations in the CARD9 gene associated with specific geographical areas and the corresponding prevalence of fungal infections.
Hybrid Mimulus flowers attract a new pollinator
Authors: Peng Foen , Sun Xiaohe , van Vloten Claudia , Correll Jude , Langdon Marlena , Ngochanthra Weerin , Johnson Karl , Amador Kane Suzanne
Published: March 2024

Hybridization is common in flowering plants and is believed to be an important force driving adaptation and speciation. The flowers of hybrids often exhibit new trait combinations, which, theoretically, could attract new species of pollinators.

In this study, we found that the hybrids between a hummingbird‐pollinated species Mimulus cardinalis and a self‐pollinated species Mimulus parishii attract bumblebees (Bombus impatiens), a pollinator not attracted to either of the progenitor species.

This novel attraction is explained by new combinations of floral traits in hybrids, including, most importantly, petal color, in addition to nectar concentration and corolla size. To understand how petal color variation is perceived by bumblebees, we performed reflectance spectroscopy and multispectral imaging to model the flower appearance in bee vision. This analysis showed that color variation would impact the ease of detection. We also found that YUP, the genetic locus responsible for a large portion of floral color variation and previously shown to be important in bee interactions with other Mimulus species, also played an important role in this novel attraction.

These results together suggest that the attraction of new pollinators to hybrid plants could be an underexplored avenue for pollinator shift and speciation.
Plant root mechanisms and their effects on carbon and nutrient accumulation in desert ecosystems under changes in land use and climate
Authors: Tariq Akash , Graciano Corina , Sardans Jordi , Zeng Fanjiang , Hughes Alice C. , Ahmed Zeeshan , Ullah Abd , Ali Sikandar , Gao Yanju , Peñuelas Josep
Published: March 2024

Deserts represent key carbon reservoirs, yet as these systems are threatened this has implications for biodiversity and climate change. This review focuses on how these changes affect desert ecosystems, particularly plant root systems and their impact on carbon and mineral nutrient stocks. Desert plants have diverse root architectures shaped by water acquisition strategies, affecting plant biomass and overall carbon and nutrient stocks. Climate change can disrupt desert plant communities, with droughts impacting both shallow and deep‐rooted plants as groundwater levels fluctuate. Vegetation management practices, like grazing, significantly influence plant communities, soil composition, root microorganisms, biomass, and nutrient stocks. Shallow‐rooted plants are particularly susceptible to climate change and human interference. To safeguard desert ecosystems, understanding root architecture and deep soil layers is crucial. Implementing strategic management practices such as reducing grazing pressure, maintaining moderate harvesting levels, and adopting moderate fertilization can help preserve plant–soil systems. Employing socio‐ecological approaches for community restoration enhances carbon and nutrient retention, limits desert expansion, and reduces CO2 emissions. This review underscores the importance of investigating belowground plant processes and their role in shaping desert landscapes, emphasizing the urgent need for a comprehensive understanding of desert ecosystems.
Responding to climate change in Aotearoa New Zealand: Universities, neoliberalism and narratives of change
Authors: Lomas Danielle , Bond Sophie
Published: March 2024

This article investigates how the eight universities in Aotearoa New Zealand are responding to climate change. It employs a mixed methods approach and involves a detailed analysis of the documentation that universities have produced in relation to climate change, supported by a critical discourse analysis and interviews with key actors in universities' climate change response. All universities in Aotearoa New Zealand were found to be mobilising in response to climate change, with targets set for reducing emissions, plans developed, and work programmes underway. These targets are not limited to decarbonization but include ambitions to embed sustainability values across teaching, research and campus life. While these climate change responses contain positive and aspirational narratives grounded in indigenous values, the primary discourses perpetuate neoliberal ideas of reconciliation that suggest no radical change is needed. Universities are further constrained by the impacts of neoliberalism and their need to financially survive within an unsustainable economic paradigm. The research concludes that it seems unlikely that transformational change will be led by universities in Aotearoa New Zealand.
The sensitivity of root water uptake to cold root temperature follows species‐specific upper elevational distribution limits of temperate tree species
Authors: Li Yating , Hoch Günter
Published: March 2024

Physiological water stress induced by low root temperatures might contribute to species‐specific climatic limits of tree distribution. We investigated the low temperature sensitivity of root water uptake and transport in seedlings of 16 European tree species which reach their natural upper elevation distribution limits at different distances to the alpine treeline. We used 2H‐H2O pulse‐labelling to quantify the water uptake and transport velocity from roots to leaves in seedlings exposed to constant 15°C, 7°C or 2°C root temperature, but identical aboveground temperatures between 20°C and 25°C. In all species, low root temperatures reduced the water transport rate, accompanied by reduced stem water potentials and stomatal conductance. At 7°C root temperature, the relative water uptake rates among species correlated positively with the species‐specific upper elevation limits, indicating an increasingly higher sensitivity to lower root zone temperatures, the lower a species' natural elevational distribution limit. Conversely, 2°C root temperature severely inhibited water uptake in all species, irrespective of the species' thermal elevational limits. We conclude that low temperature‐induced hydraulic constraints contribute to the cold distribution limits of temperate tree species and are a potential physiological cause behind the low temperature limits of plant growth in general.
Terpenoids are involved in the expression of systemic‐induced resistance in Austrian pine
Authors: Ghosh Soumya K. , Ishangulyyeva Guncha , Erbilgin Nadir , Bonello Pierluigi
Published: March 2024

Terpenoids are defense metabolites that are induced upon infection or wounding. However, their role in systemic‐induced resistance (SIR) is not known. Here, we explored the role of terpenoids in this phenomenon at a very early stage in the interaction between Austrian pine and the tip blight and canker pathogen Diplodia pinea. We induced Austrian pine saplings by either wounding or inoculating the lower stems with D. pinea. The seedlings were then challenged after 12 h, 72 h, or 10 days with D. pinea on the stem 15 cm above the induction. Lesion lengths and terpenoids were quantified at both induction and challenge locations. Key terpenoids were assayed for antifungal activity in in vitro bioassays. SIR increased with time and was correlated with the inducibility of several compounds. α‐Pinene and a cluster of β‐pinene, limonene, benzaldehyde, dodecanol, and n‐dodecyl acrylate were positively correlated with SIR and were fungistatic in vitro, while other compounds were negatively correlated with SIR and appeared to serve as a carbon source for D. pinea. This study shows that, overall, terpenoids are involved in SIR in this system, but their role is nuanced, depending on the type of induction and time of incubation. We hypothesize that some, such as α‐pinene, could serve in SIR signaling.
Dynamics and interplay of photosynthetic regulatory processes depend on the amplitudes of oscillating light
Authors: Niu Yuxi , Matsubara Shizue , Nedbal Ladislav , Lazár Dušan
Published: March 2024

Plants have evolved multiple regulatory mechanisms to cope with natural light fluctuations. The interplay between these mechanisms leads presumably to the resilience of plants in diverse light patterns. We investigated the energy‐dependent nonphotochemical quenching (qE) and cyclic electron transports (CET) in light that oscillated with a 60‐s period with three different amplitudes. The photosystem I (PSI) and photosystem II (PSII) function‐related quantum yields and redox changes of plastocyanin and ferredoxin were measured in Arabidopsis thaliana wild types and mutants with partial defects in qE or CET. The decrease in quantum yield of qE due to the lack of either PsbS‐ or violaxanthin de‐epoxidase was compensated by an increase in the quantum yield of the constitutive nonphotochemical quenching. The mutant lacking NAD(P)H dehydrogenase (NDH)‐like‐dependent CET had a transient significant PSI acceptor side limitation during the light rising phase under high amplitude of light oscillations. The mutant lacking PGR5/PGRL1‐CET restricted electron flows and failed to induce effective photosynthesis control, regardless of oscillation amplitudes. This suggests that PGR5/PGRL1‐CET is important for the regulation of PSI function in various amplitudes of light oscillation, while NDH‐like‐CET acts' as a safety valve under fluctuating light with high amplitude. The results also bespeak interplays among multiple photosynthetic regulatory mechanisms.
A histone deacetylase, FaSRT1‐2, plays multiple roles in regulating fruit ripening, plant growth and stresses resistance of cultivated strawberry
Authors: Wang Liangxin , Lin Yuanxiu , Hou Guoyan , Yang Min , Peng Yuting , Jiang Yuyan , He Caixia , She Musha , Chen Qing , Li Mengyao , Zhang Yong , Zhang Yunting , Wang Yan , He Wen , Wang Xiaorong , Tang Haoru , Luo Ya
Published: March 2024

Sirtuins (SRTs) are a group of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+)‐dependent deacetylase that target both histone and nonhistone proteins. The biological function of SRT in horticultural plants has been rarely studied. In this study, FaSRT1‐2 was identified as a key member of the 8 FaSRTs encoded in cultivated strawberry genome. Transient overexpression of FaSRT1‐2 in strawberry fruit accelerated ripening, increased the content of anthocyanins and sugars, enhanced ripening‐related gene expression. Moreover, stable transformation of FaSRT1‐2 in strawberry plants resulted in enhanced vegetative growth, increased sensitivity to heat stress and increased susceptibility to Botrytis cinerea infection. Interestingly, knocking out the homologous gene in woodland strawberry had the opposite effects. Additionally, we found the content of stress‐related hormone abscisic acid (ABA) was decreased, while the growth‐related gibberellin (GA) concentration was increased in FaSRT1‐2 overexpression lines. Gene expression analysis revealed induction of heat shock proteins, transcription factors, stress‐related and antioxidant genes in the FaSRT1‐2‐overexpressed plants while knocked‐out of the gene had the opposite impact. In conclusion, our findings demonstrated that FaSRT1‐2 could positively promote strawberry plant vegetative growth and fruit ripening by affecting ABA and GA pathways. However, it negatively regulates the resistance to heat stress and B. cinerea infection by influencing the related gene expression.
Investigating the association of anticholinergic burden with depression in older adults: a cross‐sectional study
Authors: Kayahan Satış Neslihan , Naharcı Mehmet İlkin
Published: March 2024

Background

Although depression and anticholinergic drug use are common comorbidities that impair health status in later life, there are insufficient data on their relationship. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between depressive symptoms and anticholinergic use in older individuals.

Methods

Community‐dwelling older adults (≥65 years) admitted to the tertiary referral geriatric outpatient clinic were included. Participants were evaluated for depressive symptoms using the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS) with a cut‐off score of ≥6 for depression. Exposure to anticholinergic drugs was assessed using the anticholinergic cognitive burden (ACB) scale and three subgroups were created: ACB = 0, ACB = 1, and ACB ≥ 2. The relationship between these two parameters was assessed using multivariate logistic regression analysis considering other potential variables.

Results

The study included 1232 participants (mean age 78.4 ± 7.2 years and 65.2% female) and the prevalence of depression was 24%. After adjusting for potential confounders, compared to ACB = 0, having ACB ≥ 2 was related to depression symptoms (odds ratio (OR): 1.56, 95% CI: 1.04–2.35, P = 0.034), whereas having ACB = 1 did not increase the risk (OR: 1.27, 95% CI: 0.88–1.83, P = 0.205).

Conclusion

Our findings indicate that special attention should be paid to drug therapy in preventing depression in older adults, as exposure to a high anticholinergic load is negatively associated with psychological status.
Construction and validation of a scale for assessing critical social justice attitudes
Authors: Lahtinen Oskari
Published: March 2024

Two large studies (combined n = 5,878) set out to construct and validate a scale for assessing critical social justice attitudes. Studies assessed the reliability, factor structure, model fit, and both convergent and divergent validity of the scale. Studies also examined the prevalence of critical social justice attitudes in different populations and the scale's correlations with other variables of interest, including well‐being variables: anxiety, depression, and happiness. Participants for Study 1 (n = 848) were university faculty and students, as well as non‐academic adults, from Finland. Participants responded to a survey about critical social justice attitudes. Twenty one candidate items were devised for an initial item pool, on which factor analyses were conducted, resulting in a 10‐item pilot version of critical social justice attitude scales (CSJAS). Participants for Study 2 were a nationwide sample (n = 5,030) aged 15–84 from Finland. Five new candidate items were introduced, of which two were included in the final, seven‐item, version of CSJAS. The final CSJAS scale had high reliability (α = 0.87, ω = 0.88) and a good model fit (comparative fit index [CFI] = 0.99, TLI = 0.99, root mean square error of approximation [RMSEA] = 0.04, standardized root mean residual [SRMR] = 0.01, χ2 (14, 5024) = 132.8 (p < 0.001)) as well as convergent and divergent validity. Overall, the study sample rejected critical social justice propositions, with strong rejection from men. Women expressed more than twice as much support for the propositions (d = 1.20). In both studies, CSJAS was correlated with depression, anxiety, and (lack of) happiness, but not more so than being on the political left was. The critical social justice attitude scale was successfully constructed and validated. It had good reliability and model fit.
Skin boosters: Definitions and varied classifications
Authors: Yi Kyu‐Ho , Winayanuwattikun Waranaree , Kim Sung‐Yeon , Wan Jovian , Vachatimanont Vanravi , Putri Ardhiah Iswanda , Hidajat Inneke Jane , Yogya Yuri , Pamela Ruri
Published: March 2024

Background

The concept of “skin boosters” has evolved, marking a shift from traditional uses of hyaluronic acid (HA) fillers primarily for augmenting skin volume to a more diverse application aimed at improving dermal conditions. Restylane Vital and other HA fillers have been repurposed to combat skin aging and wrinkles by delivering HA directly to the dermis.

Objectives

This review aims to define the term “skin booster” and to discuss the various components that constitute skin boosters. It seeks to provide a comprehensive overview of the different ingredients used in skin boosters, their roles, and their impact on enhancing dermal conditions.

Methods

A comprehensive review was conducted, focusing on representative skin booster ingredients. The approach involved analyzing the different elements used in skin boosters and their specific roles in enhancing dermal improvement.

Results

The findings indicate that skin boosters, encompassing a range of ingredients, are effective in improving the condition of the skin's dermis. The review identifies key ingredients in skin boosters and their specific benefits, including hydration, elasticity improvement, and wrinkle reduction.

Conclusions

Skin boosters represent a significant development in dermatological treatments, offering diverse benefits beyond traditional HA fillers. This review provides valuable insights into the constituents of skin boosters and their effectiveness, aiding readers in making informed decisions about these treatments. The potential of skin boosters in dermatological practice is considerable, warranting further research and application.
Establishment and verification of a method for analyzing nasal blackheads images
Authors: Sun Hua , Yang GuanSheng , Yuan Jing , Jiang Yanwen , Jin Gang
Published: March 2024

Background

As people pay more attention to their skin health and the demand of developing skin care products for facial blackheads grows, the value of objective and efficient image recognition methods for blackheads is becoming more evident. Inspired by this current situation, this study attempted to analyze the number of blackheads of different severity automatically on the nose using an object recognition method on photographs of the nasal blackheads of subjects.

Method

This study collected 350 subjects’ facial photos in the laboratory environment, who aged 18–60, with blackhead symptoms in the nasal region. And expert assessment was used as a reference for machine learning to verify the performance of the nasal blackhead image recognition model through consistency and correlation analysis.

Results

The study concluded that the algorithm accuracy reached above 0.9, the model itself was effective, and the consistency between the model and the expert assessor assessment results was good, with the number of nasal blackheads, the count of blackheads of different severity, and the intra‐group correlation coefficient ICC of blackhead severity all above 0.9, indicating that the deep learning‐based assessment model had high overall performance and the evaluation results were comparable to those of the expert assessor.

Conclusion

The recognition and analyzing model of nasal blackhead images provides a scientifically objective and accurate method for identifying the number and evaluating the severity of nasal blackheads. By using this model, the efficiency of evaluating nasal blackhead images in the cosmetics clinical trial will be improved. The assessment result of nasal blackheads will be objective and stable, and not only rely on the professional knowledge and clinical experience of assessors. The model can try to be applied in cosmetics efficacy testing and continuously optimized.
Nominal licensing via dependent case: The view from pseudo noun incorporation in Wolof
Authors: Fong Suzana
Published: March 2024

Bare nominals in Wolof can occur in the object position and they must be adjacent to the verb that subcategorizes for them. This is a property usually attributed to pseudo noun incorporation (PNI). However, there are two circumstances under which this adjacency requirement is obviated: a DP is introduced between the subject and the PNI‐ed object, or the latter is ‐moved. While these are disparate phenomena, a dependent case analysis of nominal licensing can account for PNI in Wolof. I assume that all nominals must be licensed with case, with case assignment being calculated in terms of dependent case. If this is not possible, a last resort strategy arises, namely surface adjacency with the verb. This analysis provides a unified analysis of PNI in Wolof.
Brane structures in microlocal sheaf theory
Authors: Jin Xin , Treumann David
Published: March 2024

Let be an exact Lagrangian submanifold of a cotangent bundle , asymptotic to a Legendrian submanifold . We study a locally constant sheaf of ‐categories on , called the sheaf of brane structures or . Its fiber is the ‐category of spectra, and we construct a Hamiltonian invariant, fully faithful functor from to the ‐category of sheaves of spectra on with singular support in .
Depiction of conversational agents as health professionals: a scoping review
Authors: MacNeill A. Luke , MacNeill Lillian , Yi Sungmin , Goudreau Alex , Luke Alison , Doucet Shelley
Published: March 2024

Objective:

The purpose of this scoping review was to examine the depiction of conversational agents as health professionals. We identified the professional characteristics that are used with these depictions and determined the prevalence of these characteristics among conversational agents that are used for health care.

Introduction:

The depiction of conversational agents as health professionals has implications for both the users and the developers of these programs. For this reason, it is important to know more about these depictions and how they are implemented in practical settings.

Inclusion criteria:

This review included scholarly literature on conversational agents that are used for health care. It focused on conversational agents designed for patients and health seekers, not health professionals or trainees. Conversational agents that address physical and/or mental health care were considered, as were programs that promote healthy behaviors.

Methods:

This review was conducted in accordance with JBI methodology for scoping reviews. The databases searched included MEDLINE (PubMed), Embase, CINAHL with Full Text (EBSCOhost), Scopus, Web of Science, ACM Guide to Computing Literature (Association for Computing Machinery Digital Library), and IEEE Xplore (IEEE). The main database search was conducted in June 2021, and an updated search was conducted in January 2022. Extracted data included characteristics of the report, basic characteristics of the conversational agent, and professional characteristics of the conversational agent. Extracted data were summarized using descriptive statistics. Results are presented in a narrative summary and accompanying tables.

Results:

A total of 38 health-related conversational agents were identified across 41 reports. Six of these conversational agents (15.8%) had professional characteristics. Four conversational agents (10.5%) had a professional appearance in which they displayed the clothing and accessories of health professionals and appeared in professional settings. One conversational agent (2.6%) had a professional title (Dr), and 4 conversational agents (10.5%) were described as having professional roles. Professional characteristics were more common among embodied vs disembodied conversational agents.

Conclusions:

The results of this review show that the depiction of conversational agents as health professionals is not particularly common, although it does occur. More discussion is needed on the potential ethical and legal issues surrounding the depiction of conversational agents as health professionals. Future research should examine the impact of these depictions, as well as people’s attitudes toward them, to better inform recommendations for practice.
Assessment and modelling of the activation‐dependent shift in optimal length of the human soleus muscle in vivo
Authors: Bohm Sebastian , Schroll Arno , Mersmann Falk , Arampatzis Adamantios
Published: March 2024

Previous in vitro and in situ studies have reported a shift in optimal muscle fibre length for force generation (L0) towards longer length at decreasing activation levels (also referred to as length‐dependent activation), yet the relevance for in vivo human muscle contractions with a variable activation pattern remains largely unclear. By a combination of dynamometry, ultrasound and electromyography (EMG), we experimentally obtained muscle force–fascicle length curves of the human soleus at 100%, 60% and 30% EMGmax levels from 15 participants aiming to investigate activation‐dependent shifts in L0 in vivo. The results showed a significant increase in L0 of 6.5 ± 6.0% from 100% to 60% EMGmax and of 9.1 ± 7.2% from 100% to 30% EMGmax (both P < 0.001), respectively, providing evidence of a moderate in vivo activation dependence of the soleus force–length relationship. Based on the experimental results, an approximation model of an activation‐dependent force–length relationship was defined for each individual separately and for the collective data of all participants, both with sufficiently high accuracy (R2 of 0.899 ± 0.056 and R2 = 0.858). This individual approximation approach and the general approximation model outcome are freely accessible and may be used to integrate activation‐dependent shifts in L0 in experimental and musculoskeletal modelling studies to improve muscle force predictions.

image

Key points

The phenomenon of the activation‐dependent shift in optimal muscle fibre length for force generation (length‐dependent activation) is poorly understood for human muscle in vivo dynamic contractions.

We experimentally observed a moderate shift in optimal fascicle length towards longer length at decreasing electromyographic activity levels for the human soleus muscle in vivo.

Based on the experimental results, we developed a freely accessible approximation model that allows the consideration of activation‐dependent shifts in optimal length in future experimental and musculoskeletal modelling studies to improve muscle force predictions.
Integration of Remote Sensing and Aerogeophysical Data Applied in the Geological Characterization of the Ipueira-Medrado Segment, Andorinhas/BA
Authors: Rebouças Iago Silva , Hühn Sérgio Roberto Bacelar , Miranda Mateus de Paula , Salgueiro Ana Rita Gonçalves Neves Lopes , Sales Kleiton Camilo da Paz , Duarte Cynthia Romariz
Published: March 2024

The segment of the Ipueira-Medrado mines constitutes two of the main chromium mines operated by Companhia Ferro-ligas da Bahia (Ferbasa). The research area is located in the municipality of Andorinhas, in the north center of the state of Bahia, in the Piemonte Norte Do Itapicuru region. Therefore, the main objective of the present work is the use of Remote Sensing and Aerogeophysics data to elaborate the geological map of the study area and highlight new target areas for mineral research. The Digital Image Processing (PDI) stage was carried out in an environment in the ENVI® 5.3 software for the scenes of the optical Alos and radar images, Palsar. The treatment of magnetic and radiometric data was carried out in the environment of the software Oasis Montaj 9.10 by Geosoft®. In the Geographic Information System (GIS) platform of ArcGis 10.7.1®, multisource data was integrated. This integration supported the screening of information from local lithologies and the identification of four lithological units: Sienito Itiúba, Santa Luz Unit, São Bento Unit and Jacurici Valley Complex. In this last unit, a combined analysis between Map Algebra and Fuzzy logic was applied to all input raster data, in order to mark out a zoning of potential areas for the occurrence of mafic-ultramafic rocks. In the end, a good relationship was noted between the results obtained with models that already exist in the bibliography. In view of this, the application of the methodology developed in this research requires more robustness for the local geological knowledge, as it will also help in the development of new mineral research endeavors.
Replacing All Fossil Fuels With Nuclear-Enabled Hydrogen, Cellulosic Hydrocarbon Biofuels, and Dispatchable Electricity
Authors: Forsberg Charles , Dale Bruce E. , Ingersoll Eric
Published: March 2024

We describe a roadmap using three sets of technologies to enable base-load nuclear reactors to replace all fossil fuels in a low-carbon world. The technologies integrate nuclear, wind, solar, hydroelectricity and biomass energy sources. Base-load nuclear reactors with large-scale heat storage enable dispatchable electricity to the grid. The low-cost heat storage enables buying excess wind and solar electricity to charge heat storage for later electricity production while providing assured generating capacity. Nuclear hydrogen production facilities at the scale of global oil refineries produce hydrogen to replace natural gas (gaseous fuel) as a chemical feedstock and heat source. Single sites may have tens of modular reactors produced in a local factory to lower costs by converting to a manufacturing model for reactor construction. Nuclear heat and hydrogen convert cellulosic biomass into drop-in liquid hydrocarbon biofuels to replace fossil-fuel gasoline, diesel, jet fuel, and hydrocarbon feed stocks for the chemical industry. External heat and hydrogen inputs increase the quantities of biofuels that can be produced per unit of cellulosic feedstock, thus assuring sufficient biomass feed stocks to replace all crude oil without major impacts on food and fiber prices. The biofuel production system enables the removal of large quantities of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere that is sequestered as carbon char in the soil while recycling plant nutrients (potassium, phosphorous, etc.) to assure agricultural and forest sustainability.
Design and Optimization of a Wearable Underactuated Mechanism for Spinal Posture Measurement
Authors: Hsu Ming-Chang , Chen Hsuan-Yu , Soong Christina , Yeh T.-J.
Published: March 2024

This paper proposes a novel wearable device to monitor and record the posture and alignment of spine. The proposed device adopts an underactuated mechanism design which allows it to adapt to the multiple-degrees-of-freedom spinal posture with minimum weight and complexity. To ensure the validity of measurement and comfort of wearing, the mechanism parameters are determined first by considering a special posture and then are fine-tuned using an optimization algorithm so that uniform contact forces for several selected spinal postures can be achieved. Experiments demonstrate that the device can automatically maintain contact with the wearer’s back and offer real-time spinal posture and alignment data for medical diagnosis and treatment.
Field emission characterization of field-aligned carbon nanotubes synthesized in an environmental transmission electron microscope
Authors: Vincent Pascal , Panciera Federico , Florea Ileana , Ayari Anthony , Perisanu Sorin , Cojocaru Costel Sorin , Taoum Haifa , Wei Chen , Saidov Khakimjon , Mirsaidov Utkur , Aguili Ilias , Blanchard Nicholas , Legagneux Pierre , Purcell Stephen Thomas
Published: March 2024

Optimizing the synthesis of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) for applications like field emission (FE) sources requires a fundamental understanding of the growth kinetics of individual CNTs. In this article, we explore how applying electric fields during CNT synthesis influences the as-grown nanotubes and their FE performance. We observe growth and undertake FE measurements in real time using an environmental transmission electron microscope. This is achieved through a polarizable capacitor gap within a microchip sample heater specifically designed for this purpose. Individual nanotubes are easily resolved and are predominantly single-wall CNTs. At low-applied fields, the growing nanotubes can span the gap and link with the opposite electrode, albeit with some loss due to mechanical failure. With a high-applied field and positive bias for FE, we continue to observe the oriented growth of nanotubes. However, this growth is constrained within the gap due to the possibility of FE occurring during the growth process, which can result in either saturation or damage. At any given time, we have the flexibility to halt the growth process and conduct in situ FE experiments. This approach enables us to comprehensively track the complete development of the CNTs and gain insights into the various mechanisms responsible for limiting the performance of CNT cathodes. Interestingly, we report an original self-oscillation induced destruction mechanism that has not been reported before.
Psychological Aspects of Motocross Racing Considering Expected, Perceived, and Actual Performance
Authors: Komáromi Liza , Tóth László , de la Vega Marcos Ricardo , Szabo Attila
Published: March 2024

Motocross racing is a seldom-researched popular extreme sport. This field research aimed to investigate feeling states, perceived arousal, anxiety, and negative and positive affect in the anticipatory and recovery race periods and their relationship to expected and perceived performance. Twenty Motocross racers completed psychometric scales before and after a national championship race. Results revealed that objective performance was unrelated to psychological measures. Arousal, anxiety, and positive affect were lower after the race. Expected performance was unrelated to postrace measures. Still, perceived performance correlated significantly with the feeling state, anxiety, and positive affect after the race and the feeling state before the race. Furthermore, racers who performed as expected or better showed improved feeling states after the race compared with those who did worse than expected. The core affect of the latter group declined. This research on psychological states during Motocross races could motivate new initiatives for future studies.
Generalized fear after acute stress is caused by change in neuronal cotransmitter identity
Authors: Li Hui-quan , Jiang Wuji , Ling Li , Pratelli Marta , Chen Cong , Gupta Vaidehi , Godavarthi Swetha K. , Spitzer Nicholas C.
Published: March 2024

Overgeneralization of fear to harmless situations is a core feature of anxiety disorders resulting from acute stress, yet the mechanisms by which fear becomes generalized are poorly understood. In this study, we show that generalized fear in mice results from a transmitter switch from glutamate to γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in serotonergic neurons of the lateral wings of the dorsal raphe. Similar change in transmitter identity was found in the postmortem brains of individuals with posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Overriding the transmitter switch in mice prevented the acquisition of generalized fear. Corticosterone release and activation of glucocorticoid receptors mediated the switch, and prompt antidepressant treatment blocked the cotransmitter switch and generalized fear. Our results provide important insight into the mechanisms involved in fear generalization.
Fork coupling directs DNA replication elongation and termination
Authors: Liu Yang , Zhangding Zhengrong , Liu Xuhao , Gan Tingting , Ai Chen , Wu Jinchun , Liang Haoxin , Chen Mohan , Guo Yuefeng , Lu Rusen , Jiang Yongpeng , Ji Xiong , Gao Ning , Kong Daochun , Li Qing , Hu Jiazhi
Published: March 2024

DNA replication is initiated at multiple loci to ensure timely duplication of eukaryotic genomes. Sister replication forks progress bidirectionally, and replication terminates when two convergent forks encounter one another. To investigate the coordination of replication forks, we developed a replication-associated in situ HiC method to capture chromatin interactions involving nascent DNA. We identify more than 2000 fountain-like structures of chromatin contacts in human and mouse genomes, indicative of coupling of DNA replication forks. Replication fork interaction not only occurs between sister forks but also involves forks from two distinct origins to predetermine replication termination. Termination-associated chromatin fountains are sensitive to replication stress and lead to coupled forks–associated genomic deletions in cancers. These findings reveal the spatial organization of DNA replication forks within the chromatin context.
Reinforcing self-assembly of hole transport molecules for stable inverted perovskite solar cells
Authors: Tang Hongcai , Shen Zhichao , Shen Yangzi , Yan Ge , Wang Yanbo , Han Qifeng , Han Liyuan
Published: March 2024

Power conversion efficiencies (PCEs) of inverted perovskite solar cells (PSCs) have been improved by the use of a self-assembled monolayer (SAM) hole transport layer. Long-term stability of PSCs requires keeping the SAM compact under the perovskite layer during operation. We found that strong polar solvents in the perovskite precursor desorb the SAM if it is anchored on substrates by hydrogen-bonded, rather than covalently bonded, hydroxyl groups. We used atomic-layer deposition to create an indium tin oxide substrate with a fully covalent hydroxyl-covered surface for SAM anchoring, as well as a SAM with a trimethoxysilane group that exhibited strong tridentate anchoring to the substrate. The resulting PSCs achieved PCEs of 24.8 (certified 24.6) and 23.2% with aperture areas of 0.08 and 1.01 square centimeters, respectively. The devices retained 98.9 and 98.2% of the initial PCE after 1000 hours damp-heat test and operation in maximum power point tracking at 85°C for 1200 hours under standard illumination, respectively.
A commercially viable solution process to control long-chain branching in polyethylene
Authors: Froese Robert D. , Arriola Daniel J. , den Doelder Jaap , Hou Jianbo , Kashyap Teresita , Lu Keran , Martinetti Luca , Stubbert Bryan D.
Published: March 2024

In polyolefins, long-chain branching is introduced through an energy-intensive, high-pressure radical process to form low-density polyethylene (LDPE). In the current work, we demonstrated a ladder-like polyethylene architecture through solution polymerization of ethylene and less than 1 mole % of α,ω-dienes, using a dual-chain catalyst. The ladder-branching mechanism requires catalysts with two growing polymer chains on the same metal center, thus enchaining the diene without the requirement of a steady-state concentration of pendant vinyl groups. Molecular weight distributions lacking a high–molecular weight tail, distinctive Mark-Houwink signatures, nuclear magnetic resonance characterization, and shear and extensional rheology consistent with highly branched polyethylene architectures are described. This approach represents an industrially viable solution-polymerization process capable of producing controlled long-chain branched polyethylene with rheological properties comparable to those of LDPE or its blends with linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE).
Structural basis of U12-type intron engagement by the fully assembled human minor spliceosome
Authors: Bai Rui , Yuan Meng , Zhang Pu , Luo Ting , Shi Yigong , Wan Ruixue
Published: March 2024

The minor spliceosome, which is responsible for the splicing of U12-type introns, comprises five small nuclear RNAs (snRNAs), of which only one is shared with the major spliceosome. In this work, we report the 3.3-angstrom cryo–electron microscopy structure of the fully assembled human minor spliceosome pre-B complex. The atomic model includes U11 small nuclear ribonucleoprotein (snRNP), U12 snRNP, and U4atac/U6atac.U5 tri-snRNP. U11 snRNA is recognized by five U11-specific proteins (20K, 25K, 35K, 48K, and 59K) and the heptameric Sm ring. The 3′ half of the 5′-splice site forms a duplex with U11 snRNA; the 5′ half is recognized by U11-35K, U11-48K, and U11 snRNA. Two proteins, CENATAC and DIM2/TXNL4B, specifically associate with the minor tri-snRNP. A structural analysis uncovered how two conformationally similar tri-snRNPs are differentiated by the minor and major prespliceosomes for assembly.
Electron highways are cooler
Authors: Jakhar Navita , Ibáñez Maria
Published: March 2024

Reducing defects boosts room-temperature performance of a thermoelectric device
Erratum to: Spectroscopic and Lasing Properties of Highly Concentrated Glasses
Authors: Ekimov A. I. , Lunter S. G. , Mironov A. N. , Fedorov Yu. K. , Shapovalov V. N. , Shumilov S. K.
Published: March 2024

An Erratum to this paper has been published: https://doi.org/10.1134/S1062873823390016
Differentiation of Optical Signals Using an Integrated Metal–Dielectric–Metal Structure
Authors: Kashapov A. I. , Bezus E. A. , Bykov D. A. , Doskolovich L. L.
Published: March 2024

The authors consider the optical properties of integrated metal–dielectric–metal structures embedded in a dielectric slab waveguide and their application to the problems of first- and second-order optical differentiation of the profile of the incident optical beam in reflection. Numerical simulation results show the investigated structures allow the spatial differentiation operation to be performed with high quality. The presented results could find application in new systems for optical information processing and analog optical computing based on integrated nanophotonic structures.
Erratum to: Study of the 242Pu + 48Ca Reaction at Super Heavy Element Factory
Authors: Ibadullayev D. , Utyonkov V. K. , Oganessian Yu. Ts. , Abdullin F. Sh. , Dmitriev S. N. , Itkis M. G. , Karpov A. V. , Kovrizhnykh N. D. , Kuznetsov D. A. , Petrushkin O. V. , Podshibiakin A. V. , Polyakov A. N. , Popeko A. G. , Sagaidak R. N. , Schlattauer L. , Shubin V. D. , Shumeiko M. V. , Solovyev D. I. , Tsyganov Yu. S. , Voinov A. A. , Subbotin V. G. , Bodrov A. Yu. , Sabel’nikov A. V. , Giniyatova Sh. G. , Kuterbekov K. A.
Published: March 2024

An Erratum to this paper has been published: https://doi.org/10.1134/S1062873824010015
Rapid reviews methods series: assessing the appropriateness of conducting a rapid review
Authors: Garritty Chantelle , Nussbaumer-Streit Barbara , Hamel Candyce , Devane Declan
Published: March 2024

This paper, part of the Cochrane Rapid Review Methods Group series, offers guidance on determining when to conduct a rapid review (RR) instead of a full systematic review (SR). While both review types aim to comprehensively synthesise evidence, RRs, conducted within a shorter time frame of typically 6 months or less, involve streamlined methods to expedite the process. The decision to opt for an RR depends on the urgency of the research question, resource availability and the impact on decision outcomes. The paper categorises scenarios where RRs are appropriate, including urgent decision-making, informing guidelines, assessing new technologies and identifying evidence gaps. It also outlines instances when RRs may be inappropriate, cautioning against conducting them solely for ease, quick publication or only cost-saving motives.

When deciding on an RR, it is crucial to consider both conceptual and practical factors. These factors encompass the urgency of needing timely evidence, the consequences of waiting for a full SR, the potential risks associated with incomplete evidence, and the risk of not using synthesised evidence in decision-making, among other considerations. Key factors to weigh also include having a clearly defined need, a manageable scope and access to the necessary expertise. Overall, this paper aims to guide informed judgements about whether to choose an RR over an SR based on the specific research question and context. Researchers and decision-makers are encouraged to carefully weigh potential trade-offs when opting for RRs.
Guillain-Barré syndrome and checkpoint inhibitor therapy: insights from pharmacovigilance data
Authors: Abrahao Andre , Tenório Pedro Henrique de Magalhães , Rodrigues Mariana , Mello Monica , Nascimento Osvaldo José Moreira
Published: March 2024

BackgroundThere are increasing reports of cases of Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS), as an adverse event of an immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) but postmarket data on the incidence of this remains scarce. This study sought to conduct a comprehensive review of GBS events arising as a secondary outcome of ICI treatments in real-world patients, using the Food and Drug Administration Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS).

MethodsData covering the period from the third quarter of 2003 to the second quarter of 2023 were extracted from the FAERS database. GBS cases (associated with the usage of avelumab, atezolizumab, ipilimumab, nivolumab and pembrolizumab) were subjected to disproportionality analysis to detect potential signals.

ResultsA total of 2208 reports of GBS were identified within the FAERS database, with 242 of these cases (10.9%) being associated with ICIs. All five drugs exhibited a disproportionality in the reporting of adverse events, with the highest observed for avelumab (reporting OR, ROR: 29.8), followed by atezolizumab (ROR: 17.0), ipilimumab (ROR: 16.0), pembrolizumab (ROR: 11.9) and nivolumab (ROR: 8.2).

ConclusionThese checkpoint inhibitors are associated with a statistically significant disproportionate number of reports of GBS as an adverse event, with avelumab being the ICI with the highest association. The present pharmacovigilance study serves as a valuable tool, offering a more comprehensive and nuanced perspective on GBS associated with ICIs. This study contributes to a deeper comprehension of this rare adverse drug effect.
Enhancing patient safety: a system-based analysis of morbidity and mortality conferences in managing postoperative bleeding following gastric and pancreatic cancer surgery
Authors: Lahnaoui Oumayma , Houmada Amina , Benkabbou Amine , Ghannam Abdelillah , Al Ahmadi Brahim , Belkhadir Zakaria , Mohsine Raouf , Souadka Amine , Majbar Mohammed Anass
Published: March 2024

Morbidity and mortality conferences (MMCs) have evolved beyond their traditional educational role to become instrumental in enhancing patient safety. System-based MMCs offer a unique perspective on patient safety by dissecting systemic factors contributing to adverse events. This paper reviews the impact of MMC in managing postoperative bleeding after gastric and pancreatic cancer surgery, within the constraints of limited resources. The study conducted at the National Institute of Oncology in Rabat, Morocco, analysed 18 MMC of haemorrhage following gastric and pancreatic surgeries and allowed to identify two patterns of cumulative factors contributing to adverse events. The first one relates to organisational issues and the second to postoperative management. Fifteen recommendations of improvement emerged from MMC addressing elements of these patterns with an implementation rate of 53.3%.