bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Proteins released into the plant apoplast by the obligate parasitic protist Albugo selectively repress phyllosphere‐associated bacteria
Authors: Gómez‐Pérez Daniel , Schmid Monja , Chaudhry Vasvi , Hu Yiheng , Velic Ana , Maček Boris , Ruhe Jonas , Kemen Ariane , Kemen Eric
Published: May 2023

Biotic and abiotic interactions shape natural microbial communities. The mechanisms behind microbe–microbe interactions, particularly those protein based, are not well understood. We hypothesize that released proteins with antimicrobial activity are a powerful and highly specific toolset to shape and defend plant niches.

We have studied Albugo candida, an obligate plant parasite from the protist Oomycota phylum, for its potential to modulate the growth of bacteria through release of antimicrobial proteins into the apoplast.

Amplicon sequencing and network analysis of Albugo‐infected and uninfected wild Arabidopsis thaliana samples revealed an abundance of negative correlations between Albugo and other phyllosphere microbes. Analysis of the apoplastic proteome of Albugo‐colonized leaves combined with machine learning predictors enabled the selection of antimicrobial candidates for heterologous expression and study of their inhibitory function. We found for three candidate proteins selective antimicrobial activity against Gram‐positive bacteria isolated from A. thaliana and demonstrate that these inhibited bacteria are precisely important for the stability of the community structure. We could ascribe the antibacterial activity of the candidates to intrinsically disordered regions and positively correlate it with their net charge.

This is the first report of protist proteins with antimicrobial activity under apoplastic conditions that therefore are potential biocontrol tools for targeted manipulation of the microbiome.
LncRNA CARMN facilitates odontogenic differentiation of dental pulp cells by impairing EZH2
Authors: Li Hongyu , Huo Sibei , He Xinyu , Guo Daimo , Liu Yingling , Zheng Liwei , Zhou Xin
Published: May 2023

Objective

This study aimed to reveal the potential role of CARMN in odontogenic differentiation of dental pulp cells (DPCs).

Methods

Laser capture microdissection was used to detect Carmn in DPCs and odontoblasts in P0 mice. After manipulating CARMN expression in odontogenic differentiation induced hDPCs, the state of odontogenic differentiation was evaluated by ALP staining, ARS, and related marker expression in qRT‐PCR and western blotting. The subcutaneous transplantation of HA/β‐TCP loaded with hDPCs was performed to verify CARMN's role in promoting odontogenic differentiation in vivo. RNAplex and RIP were employed to reveal potential mechanism of CARMN in hDPCs.

Results

CARMN expressed more abundantly in odontoblasts than DPCs in P0 mice. CARMN expression boosted during in vitro odontogenic differentiation of hDPCs. CARMN overexpression enhanced odontogenic differentiation of hDPCs in vitro, while inhibition impaired the process. CARMN overexpression in HA/β‐TCP composites promoted more mineralized nodule formation in vivo. CARMN knockdown led to soared EZH2, while CARMN overexpression brought about EZH2 inhibition. CARMN functioned via direct interaction with EZH2.

Conclusions

The results uncovered CARMN as a modulator during the odontogenic differentiation of DPCs. CARMN promoted odontogenic differentiation of DPCs by impairing EZH2.
Engineered gamma radiation phytosensors for environmental monitoring
Authors: Sears Robert G. , Rigoulot Stephen B. , Occhialini Alessandro , Morgan Britany , Kakeshpour Tayebeh , Brabazon Holly , Barnes Caitlin N. , Seaberry Erin M. , Jacobs Brianna , Brown Chandler , Yang Yongil , Schimel Tayler M. , Lenaghan Scott C. , Neal Stewart C.
Published: May 2023

Nuclear energy, already a practical solution for supplying energy on a scale similar to fossil fuels, will likely increase its footprint over the next several decades to meet current climate goals. Gamma radiation is produced during fission in existing nuclear reactors and thus the need to detect leakage from nuclear plants, and effects of such leakage on ecosystems will likely also increase. At present, gamma radiation is detected using mechanical sensors that have several drawbacks, including: (i) limited availability; (ii) reliance on power supply; and (iii) requirement of human presence in dangerous areas. To overcome these limitations, we have developed a plant biosensor (phytosensor) to detect low‐dose ionizing radiation. The system utilizes synthetic biology to engineer a dosimetric switch into potato utilizing the plant's native DNA damage response (DDR) machinery to produce a fluorescent output. In this work, the radiation phytosensor was shown to respond to a wide range of gamma radiation exposure (10–80 Grey) producing a reporter signal that was detectable at >3 m. Further, a pressure test of the top radiation phytosensor in a complex mesocosm demonstrated full function of the system in a ‘real world’ scenario.
Factors associated with halitosis reported by parents/caregivers in individuals with Down syndrome
Authors: Campos Julya Ribeiro , Costa Fernando Oliveira , Borges‐Oliveira Ana Cristina , Cota Luís Otávio Miranda
Published: May 2023

Aims

Data on halitosis among individuals with Down syndrome (DS) are scarce. The aim was to evaluate factors associated with the occurrence of halitosis reported by parents/caregivers (P/Cs) in individuals with DS.

Methods and Results

A cross‐sectional study was conducted in non‐governmental assistance institutions in the State of Minas Gerais—Brazil. P/Cs have answered an electronic questionnaire with sociodemographic, behavioral and oral health data. Factors associated with halitosis were evaluated by multivariate logistic regression. The sample comprised 227 P/Cs (age 48.8 ± 13.2 years; 82.9% mothers) of individuals with DS (age 20.8 ± 13.5 years). The prevalence of halitosis in the total sample was 34.4% (n = 78) and its occurrence was associated: 1) in individuals with DS ≤18 years old (26.2%; n = 27)—negative perception of oral health (OR = 3.91); 2) in individuals with DS > 18 years (41.1%; n = 51)—gingival bleeding (OR = 4.53), absence of tongue brushing (OR = 4.50), negative perception of oral health (OR = 2.72).

Conclusions

The occurrence of halitosis in individuals with DS reported by P/Cs was relevant and associated with dental factors, having a negative impact on the perception of oral health. Oral hygiene practices, especially tongue brushing, should be reinforced to prevent and control halitosis.
The challenge of risk prevention in home healthcare—An interview study with nurses in municipal care
Authors: Lekman Jonatan , Lindén Erik , Ekstedt Mirjam
Published: May 2023

Background

Safety in home healthcare has garnered increased attention as more people are receiving care for complex conditions at home. The prerequisites for providing safe care at home differ from those in hospitals. Malnutrition, falls, pressure ulcers and inappropriate medication commonly follow poor risk assessments, causing unnecessary suffering and costs. Therefore, risk prevention in home healthcare needs to be prioritised and studied more closely.

Aim

To describe nurses' experiences of performing risk prevention in municipal home healthcare.

Methods

Qualitative inductive approach, using semi‐structured interviews with 10 registered nurses in a municipality in southern Sweden. Data underwent qualitative content analysis.

Findings

The analysis resulted in three main categories and one overarching theme describing nurses' experiences of risk prevention in home healthcare. Getting everyone onboard comprises the categories: Managing safety while respecting the patient's self‐determination, which covers patient participation, the strategic importance of respecting different views of risks and information and the fact that healthcare workers are guests in the patient's home. Finding ways to make it work touches upon the relational aspect, including next‐of‐kin and promoting a common understanding to prevent risks. Being squeezed between resources and requirements refers to ethical dilemmas, teamwork, leadership and organisational prerequisites.

Conclusion

Patient habits, living conditions and limited awareness of risks is a challenge in risk prevention in home healthcare, where patient participation plays a pivotal role. Risk prevention in home healthcare needs to be initiated at an early stage of disease and ageing and should be seen as a process where early health‐promoting interventions can prevent the development and accumulation of risks over time. Long‐term cross‐organisational collaborations and patients' physical, mental and psychosocial conditions also need to be taken into account.
Groundwater red beds in Holocene fluvial sediments as a product of iron and manganese redox cycling; Morava River, Czechia
Authors: Bábek Ondřej , Sracek Ondra , Všianský Dalibor , Holá Markéta
Published: May 2023

Modern fluvial deposits can be affected by early diagenetic element mobilization at redox boundaries between oxygenated and oxygen‐free zones near the groundwater level. The visible product of redox transformation of Fe is the sediment colour. Distinct red and black sediment layers have been studied in eight shallow (<4.2 m depth) sections in the floodplain of Morava River, Czechia. The aim was to investigate the composition, origin, rates of formation and stratigraphic significance of the red strata using bulk‐rock analytical methods, radiocarbon dating, optical and scanning electron microscopy coupled with in situ (energy‐dispersive X‐ray scanning electron microscopy and laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry) geochemistry. The coloured layers, in places well‐cemented, developed in permeable sands and gravels above the water table, close to the boundary with overlying less permeable floodplain sandy silts. Their colour is due to Fe and Mn oxyhydroxides (goethite, haematite, todorokite and birnessite) coatings of framework grains. Black, Mn‐rich layers occur stratigraphically higher than the red, Fe‐rich ones. The coatings are a few‐hundred microns thick at maximum, often botryoidal, composed of alternating Fe‐rich and Mn‐rich laminae enriched in As, Mo, Sb, P, Cu and U. The coatings formed under suboxic conditions due to Fe and Mn oxyhydroxide cycling, driven partly by microbial activity, at the groundwater‐related redox boundary which resulted in the distinct vertical arrangement of the black and red layers. Being markedly enriched in As bound to Fe‐oxyhydroxides and exposed to fluctuating redox conditions, the coloured strata can potentially release As to groundwater and represent serious environmental hazards. Radiocarbon ages suggest that the groundwater‐type red beds can occur extremely quickly, over a few hundred years. It is assumed that, under suitable circumstances, this reddening can be preserved in the rock record, and represent a specific model for the development of continental red beds.
Inferentialism and social delusion
Authors: Lemanek Kamil
Published: May 2023

This work sets out to present how the notion of delusion may be understood (and extended) within the semantic framework of Robert Brandom's inferentialism. The mechanisms of reliability and community‐oriented proprieties, among others, provide inferentialists with effective tools for understanding commitments (and so beliefs) in communities. These tools may be used to describe and assess both commitments that we might consider sound and commitments that we might consider delusional, both in terms of how they arise and in terms of how they may be reinforced. Delusions are accordingly rendered in perspectival and normative terms, which is elaborated through a number of examples. The picture of how a delusional commitment may be understood, how it may be reinforced, and its character as community internal or external provide some interesting perspectives on delusions in shared social contexts, as well as how they may originate intractable conflicts and disconnects between sub‐groups within a broader linguistic community.
Microbe‐mediated biodegradation of microplastics from wastes
Authors: Chettri Dixita , Pati Tanmoy , Verma Anil Kumar
Published: May 2023

Microplastics (MPs) with slow degradation rates carry toxins and pathogens from surroundings, accumulate and pollute the environment. They bio‐accumulate on humans and other lifeforms leading to health concerns, including inflammatory lesions, oxidative stress and increased cancer risk, thus requiring immediate remediation actions. This review summarizes, categorizes and analyses recent findings on MP source, transit and environmental toxicity and explores their microbe‐mediated breakdown. Various micro‐organisms such as fungi, bacteria, algae and protists interact with and build biofilm on MP surfaces and alter their surface morphology for their degradation. Pure strains and microbial consortia have been successfully able to degrade MPs. Extracellular enzymes are produced by these micro‐organisms that convert the complex recalcitrant polymeric structure of MP to simpler forms. Further, knowledge of factors associated with MP degradation along with the development of genetic tools enhances the rate of microbial degradation with consortium having an advantage over single bacterium‐mediated MP transformation, which has been discussed.
MicroRNAs involved in human skin burns, wound healing and scarring
Authors: Siu Man Ching , Voisey Joanne , Zang Tuo , Cuttle Leila
Published: May 2023

MicroRNAs are small, non‐coding RNAs that regulate gene expression, and consequently protein synthesis. Downregulation and upregulation of miRNAs and their corresponding genes can alter cell apoptosis, proliferation, migration and fibroproliferative responses following a thermal injury. This review summarises the evidence for altered human miRNA expression post‐burn, and during wound healing and scarring. In addition, the most relevant miRNA targets and their roles in potential pathways are described. Previous studies using molecular techniques have identified 197 miRNAs associated with human wound healing, burn wound healing and scarring. Five miRNAs alter the expression of fibroproliferative markers, proliferation and migration of fibroblasts and keratinocytes post‐burn: hsa‐miR‐21 and hsa‐miR‐31 are increased after wounding, and hsa‐miR‐23b, hsa‐miR‐200b and hsa‐let‐7c are decreased. Four of these five miRNAs are associated with the TGF‐β pathway. In the future, large scale, in vivo, longitudinal human studies utilising a range of cell types, ethnicity and clinical healing outcomes are fundamental to identify burn wound healing and scarring specific markers. A comprehensive understanding of the underlying pathways will facilitate the development of clinical diagnostic or prognostic tools for better scar management and the identification of novel treatment targets for improved healing outcomes in burn patients.
Dynamic Simulation Model of a Hybrid Electric ATV
Authors: Asus Zainab , Abdillah Ahmad Zaki , Dr Zul-hilmi Bin Che Daud
Published: May 2023

The application of electric vehicles has its own disadvantages which can influence the critical performance of the vehicles such as the limited capacity of the battery that play a major role in the range of mileage covered. Hence, a hybrid electric All-Terrain-Vehicle (HEATV) is a best solution as the addition of gasoline-powered engine and electric generator can extend the range covered by an electric ATV. In order to determine the effectiveness of the hybrid configuration, a dynamic simulation model need to be developed by Energetic Macroscopic Representation Method (EMR) to analyze the performance of the ATV. The EMR method involve the causal ordering graph and action-reaction principle together with Inversion-based Control to develop a control structure of a HEATV. The simulation test will be run on the original and modifications of the ATV where the original one only depends on EM to drive the vehicle whereas the modified vehicle include the ICE and electric generator for charging process. The simulation results of the original ATV show the decreasing trend in terms of battery state-of-charge. However, after the modifications have been done the battery state-of-charge show the increasing trend and thus, extend the range of mileage covered by an ATV.
Souplet–Zhang and Hamilton‐type gradient estimates for non‐linear elliptic equations on smooth metric measure spaces
Authors: Taheri Ali , Vahidifar Vahideh
Published: May 2023

In this article, we present new gradient estimates for positive solutions to a class of non‐linear elliptic equations  involving the f‐Laplacian on a smooth metric measure space. The gradient estimates of interest are of Souplet–Zhang and Hamilton types, respectively, and are established under natural lower bounds on the generalised Bakry–Émery Ricci curvature tensor. From these estimates, we derive amongst other things Harnack inequalities and general global constancy and Liouville‐type theorems. The results and approach undertaken here provide a unified treatment and extend and improve various existing results in the literature. Some implications and applications are presented and discussed.
Disputas en la gestión de espacios de uso común en conjuntos habitacionales en Chiapas, México
Authors: Gómez Cruz Jovita Patricia , Pedrotti Carolina Inés
Published: May 2023

El artículo problematiza la relación entre la acción vecinal y el espacio habitacional contemporáneo; su objetivo es explicar el surgimiento de disputas vecinales en el contexto de la gestión de los espacios de uso común en conjuntos habitacionales producidos por el sector privado desarrollador. La orientación teórica del trabajo aprovecha los postulados de la acción colectiva y los articula con los del espacio habitacional urbano. Mediante la aplicación sistemática de técnicas cualitativas —observación y entrevistas—, fue posible reconocer trayectorias de acción que inician de manera obligada con prácticas diversas, ante las omisiones —vacíos de gestión— tanto del productor privado como del gobierno local. En esa compleja dinámica detonan las disputas, que adquieren con el tiempo rasgos identitarios en la vida vecinal. La evidencia empírica corresponde a dos conjuntos habitacionales en una ciudad del sureste mexicano, San Cristóbal de las Casas, Chiapas.
Reliability, Familiarization Effect, and Comparisons Between a Predetermined and a Self-Determined Isometric-Squat Testing Protocol
Authors: McGoldrick Cillian D. , Iacono Antonio Dello , Morgan Oliver J. , Nayler Jack , Buchanan Janice , McCart Christopher , Unnithan Viswanath B.
Published: May 2023

Purpose: This study examined the interday reliability of a predetermined and a self-determined isometric-squat test among youth soccer players. Familiarization effects were evaluated to determine the minimum number of trials necessary to obtain consistent outputs. Finally, differences between protocols were evaluated. Methods: Thirty-one youth soccer players (mean [SD] age: 13.2 [1.0] y; body mass: 54.1 [3.4] kg; stature: 166.3 [11.2] cm; percentage of estimated adult height: 92.6% [3.6%]) from a top-tier professional academy completed 4 experimental sessions for each protocol: familiarization 1, familiarization 2, test, and retest sessions. Peak force; relative peak force; impulse from 0 to 50 milliseconds, 0 to 100 milliseconds, 0 to 150 milliseconds, and 0 to 200 milliseconds; and rate of force development from 0 to 50 milliseconds, 0 to 100 milliseconds, 0 to 150 milliseconds, and 0 to 200 milliseconds were measured. Results: Both protocols displayed acceptable (intraclass correlation coefficient ≥.75 and coefficient of variation ≤10%) reliability statistics for all metrics apart from rate of force development of any time epoch. Differences were found between familiarization 2 and both test and retest sessions for peak force (P = .034 and .021, respectively) and relative peak force (P = .035 and .005, respectively) across both protocols. Conclusions: The isometric-squat test is a reliable test among youth soccer players. Two familiarization sessions seem to be sufficient to ensure data stabilization. Outputs between the self-determined and predetermined are comparable; however, the latter seems preferable due to improved testing time efficiency.
A Worldwide Survey on the Practices and Perceptions of Submaximal Fitness Tests in Team Sports
Authors: Shushan Tzlil , Norris Dean , McLaren Shaun J. , Buchheit Martin , Scott Tannath J. , Barrett Steve , Dello Iacono Antonio , Lovell Ric
Published: May 2023

Purpose: To survey team-sport practitioners on current practices and perceptions of submaximal fitness tests (SMFTs). Methods: A convenience sample of team-sport practitioners completed an online survey (September to November 2021). Descriptive statistics were used to obtain information of frequencies. A mixed-model quantile (median) regression was employed to assess the differences between the perceived influence of extraneous factors. Results: A total of 66 practitioners (74 discrete protocols) from 24 countries completed the survey. Time-efficient and nonexhaustive nature were considered the most important features of implementation. Practitioners prescribed a range of SMFTs, administered mostly on a monthly or weekly basis, but scheduling strategies appeared to differ across SMFT categories. Cardiorespiratory/metabolic outcome measures were collected in most protocols (n = 61; 82%), with the majority monitoring heart-rate-derived indices. Subjective outcome measures (n = 33; 45%) were monitored exclusively using ratings of perceived exertion. Mechanical outcome measures (n = 19; 26%) included either a combination of locomotor outputs (eg, distance covered) or variables derived from microelectrical mechanical systems. The perceived influence of extraneous factors on measurement accuracy varied according to outcome measure, and there was a lack of consensus among practitioners. Conclusions: Our survey showcases the methodological frameworks, practices, and challenges of SMFTs in team sports. The most important features for implementation perhaps support the use of SMFTs as a feasible and sustainable tool for monitoring in team sports. The wide variety of protocols, scheduling strategies, and outcome measures, along with their associated collection and analytical techniques, may reflect the absence of robust evidence regarding the application of SMFTs in team sports.
The European Portuguese Version of the Composite Physical Function Scale: Cross-Cultural Adaptation and Validation in Community-Dwelling Older Adults
Authors: Moniz-Pereira Vera , Silva Thaís Ferreira , Cruz Eduardo B. , Carnide Filomena
Published: May 2023

This study aims to perform the cross-cultural adaptation to European Portuguese of the Composite Physical Function Scale and to assess its validity and reliability in a sample of community-dwelling older adults. The scale was translated into European Portuguese, back translated, and piloted in a sample of 16 representative individuals. Its validity and reliability were tested in an independent sample of 114 community-dwelling older adults (52 were tested twice to assess test–retest reliability). The results showed that the scale had good internal consistency (α = .90), construct validity (ρ = .71) and measurement error (78.8% agreement), and excellent test–retest reliability (κ = .98). However, a ceiling effect was found as 28% of the participants achieved the highest possible score. Although the scale has good measurement properties, the presence of ceiling effects is indicative that this tool is not able to distinguish higher levels of intrinsic capacity within community-dwelling older adults.
TrpA1 is a shear stress mechanosensing channel regulating intestinal stem cell proliferation in
Drosophila
Authors: Gong Jiaxin , Nirala Niraj K. , Chen Jiazhang , Wang Fei , Gu Pengyu , Wen Qi , Ip Y. Tony , Xiang Yang
Published: May 2023

Adult stem cells are essential for tissue maintenance and repair. Although genetic pathways for controlling adult stem cells are extensively investigated in various tissues, much less is known about how mechanosensing could regulate adult stem cells and tissue growth. Here, we demonstrate that shear stress sensing regulates intestine stem cell proliferation and epithelial cell number in adult
Drosophila
. Ca
2+
imaging in ex vivo midguts shows that shear stress, but not other mechanical forces, specifically activates enteroendocrine cells among all epithelial cell types. This activation is mediated by transient receptor potential A1 (TrpA1), a Ca
2+
-permeable channel expressed in enteroendocrine cells. Furthermore, specific disruption of shear stress, but not chemical, sensitivity of TrpA1 markedly reduces proliferation of intestinal stem cells and midgut cell number. Therefore, we propose that shear stress may act as a natural mechanical stimulation to activate TrpA1 in enteroendocrine cells, which, in turn, regulates intestine stem cell behavior.
Cryo-EM analysis of scorpion toxin binding to Ryanodine Receptors reveals subconductance that is abolished by PKA phosphorylation
Authors: Haji-Ghassemi Omid , Chen Yu Seby , Woll Kellie , Gurrola Georgina B. , Valdivia Carmen R. , Cai Wenxuan , Li Songhua , Valdivia Hector H. , Van Petegem Filip
Published: May 2023

Calcins are peptides from scorpion venom with the unique ability to cross cell membranes, gaining access to intracellular targets. Ryanodine Receptors (RyR) are intracellular ion channels that control release of Ca
2+
from the endoplasmic and sarcoplasmic reticulum. Calcins target RyRs and induce long-lived subconductance states, whereby single-channel currents are decreased. We used cryo–electron microscopy to reveal the binding and structural effects of imperacalcin, showing that it opens the channel pore and causes large asymmetry throughout the cytosolic assembly of the tetrameric RyR. This also creates multiple extended ion conduction pathways beyond the transmembrane region, resulting in subconductance. Phosphorylation of imperacalcin by protein kinase A prevents its binding to RyR through direct steric hindrance, showing how posttranslational modifications made by the host organism can determine the fate of a natural toxin. The structure provides a direct template for developing calcin analogs that result in full channel block, with potential to treat RyR-related disorders.
Effects of Omeprazole on Recurrent Clostridioides difficile Infection Caused by ST81 Strains and Their Potential Mechanisms
Authors: Liu Yifeng , Ma Liyan , Cheng Jingwei , Su Jianrong
Published: May 2023

Clostridioides difficile
infection (CDI) is associated with high recurrence rates that have substantial effects on patients’ quality of life. To investigate the risk factors and potential mechanisms contributing to recurrent CDI (rCDI), a total of 243 cases were enrolled in this study.
Insight on Bacterial Newborn Meningitis Using a Neurovascular-Unit-on-a-Chip
Authors: Rauti Rossana , Navok Sharon , Biran Dvora , Tadmor Keshet , Leichtmann-Bardoogo Yael , Ron Eliora Z. , Maoz Ben M.
Published: May 2023

The interactions of newborn meningitis (NBM) with the neurovascular unit are very complex and are hard to study. This work presents a new platform to study NBM in a system that enables monitoring of multicellular interactions and identifies processes that were not observed before.
Arsenophonus
Interacts with
Buchnera
to Improve Growth Performance of Aphids under Amino Acid Stress
Authors: Tian Pan-Pan , Zhang Yu-Lin , Huang Jing-Ling , Li Wang-Yan , Liu Xiang-Dong
Published: May 2023

The obligate symbiont
Buchnera
can synthesize amino acids for aphids. In this study, we found that a facultative symbiont,
Arsenophonus
, can help improve aphids’ growth performance under amino acid deficiency stress by changing the relative abundance of
Buchnera
and the expression levels of amino acid synthase genes. This study highlights the interaction between
Arsenophonus
and
Buchnera
to ameliorate aphid growth under amino acid stress.
Efficient Direct and Limited Environmental Transmission of SARS-CoV-2 Lineage B.1.22 in Domestic Cats
Authors: Gerhards Nora M. , Gonzales Jose L. , Vreman Sandra , Ravesloot Lars , van den Brand Judith M. A. , Doekes Harmen P. , Egberink Herman F. , Stegeman Arjan , Oreshkova Nadia , van der Poel Wim H. M. , de Jong Mart C. M.
Published: May 2023

This article provides additional insight into the risk of infection that could arise from cats infected with SARS-CoV-2 by using epidemiological models to determine transmission parameters. Considering that transmission parameters are not always provided in the literature describing transmission experiments in animals, we demonstrate that mathematical analysis of experimental data is crucial to estimate the likelihood of transmission.
Transmission Dynamics of a Mycobacterium tuberculosis Complex Outbreak in an Indigenous Population in the Colombian Amazon Region
Authors: Pérez-Llanos Francy J. , Dreyer Viola , Barilar Ivan , Utpatel Christian , Kohl Thomas A. , Murcia Martha Isabel , Homolka Susanne , Merker Matthias , Niemann Stefan
Published: May 2023

The Colombian Amazon around Puerto Nariño has a high tuberculosis burden with a prevalence of 1,267/100,000 people in 2016. Recently, an outbreak of
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
complex (MTBC) bacteria among the indigenous populations was identified with classical MTBC genotyping methods.
Supplemental Material: Mafic intrusions record mantle inputs and crustal thickness in the eastern Sierra Nevada batholith, California, USA
Authors: Lewis Madeline J. , et al.
Published: May 2023

The Supplemental Figures include maps, thin section and zircon images, figures used to display geochronological data for individual samples, and additional bulk-rock chemistry plots. The Supplemental Tables give the GPS locations of our samples, as well as bulk-rock chemistry, mineral chemistry, and zircon isotopic data.
Supplemental Material: Resolving the nature and evolution of the Bangong–Nujiang Tethyan Ocean: New perspectives from the intraplate oceanic-island fragments preserved in Northern Tibet
Authors: Fan Jian-Jun , et al.
Published: May 2023

Supplemental Text S1–S3, Supplemental Figures S1–S3, and Supplemental Tables S1–S11.
Supplemental Material: Syn-tectonic fluids decoding effects of tectono-metamorphic cycles on regional metallogenic evolution of the Chinese Altai, central Asia
Authors: Xiao Ming , Jiang Yingde , et al.
Published: May 2023

The geochemical data of this study are included in Supplemental Tables S1–S3.
Quality of clinical evidence and political justifications of ivermectin mass distribution of COVID-19 kits in eight Latin American countries
Authors: Requejo Domínguez José Antonio , Mino-León Dolores , Wirtz Veronika J
Published: May 2023

Background

Several countries in Latin America conducted mass distribution of COVID-19 kits intended to treat mild COVID-19, thereby preventing excess hospitalisations. Many of the kits contained ivermectin, an antiparasitic medicine that was not approved at the time for the treatment of COVID-19. The study objective was to compare the timing of the publication of scientific evidence about the efficacy of ivermectin for COVID-19 with the timeline of distribution of COVID-19 kits in eight Latin American countries and to analyse whether evidence was used to justify ivermectin distribution.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review of randomised controlled trials (RCTs) published on the efficacy of ivermectin or ivermectin as adjuvant therapy on mortality from, or as prevention for, COVID-19. Each RCT was assessed using the Cochrane Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluations (GRADE). Information on the timing and justification of government decisions was collected through a systematic search of leading newspapers and government press releases.

Results

After removing the duplicates and abstracts without full text, 33 RCTs met our inclusion criteria. According to GRADE, the majority had a substantial risk of bias. Many government officials made claims that ivermectin was effective and safe in the prevention or treatment of COVID-19, despite the lack of published evidence.

Conclusion

All eight governments distributed COVID-19 kits to their populations despite the absence of high-quality evidence on the efficacy of ivermectin for prevention, hospitalisation and mortality in COVID-19 patients. Lessons learnt from this situation could be used to strengthen government institutions’ capacities to implement evidence-informed public health policies.
Characteristics of successful government-led interventions to support healthier populations: a starting portfolio of positive outlier examples
Authors: Bragge Peter , Waddell Alex , Kellner Paul , Delafosse Veronica , Marten Robert , Nordström Anders , Demaio Sandro
Published: May 2023

Despite progress on the Millennium and Sustainable Development Goals, significant public health challenges remain to address communicable and non-communicable diseases and health inequities. The Healthier Societies for Healthy Populations initiative convened by WHO’s Alliance for Health Policy and Systems Research; the Government of Sweden; and the Wellcome Trust aims to address these complex challenges. One starting point is to build understanding of the characteristics of successful government-led interventions to support healthier populations. To this end, this project explored five purposefully sampled, successful public health initiatives: front-of-package warnings on food labels containing high sugar, sodium or saturated fat (Chile); healthy food initiatives (trans fats, calorie labelling, cap on beverage size; New York); the alcohol sales and transport ban during COVID-19 (South Africa); the Vision Zero road safety initiative (Sweden) and establishment of the Thai Health Promotion Foundation. For each initiative a qualitative, semistructured one-on-one interview with a key leader was conducted, supplemented by a rapid literature scan with input from an information specialist. Thematic analysis of the five interviews and 169 relevant studies across the five examples identified facilitators of success including political leadership, public education, multifaceted approaches, stable funding and planning for opposition. Barriers included industry opposition, the complex nature of public health challenges and poor interagency and multisector co-ordination. Further examples building on this global portfolio will deepen understanding of success factors or failures over time in this critical area.
Analytical expressions of sustainable benchmarks generic for all two-stage-structured models of exploited fish populations
Authors: Munyandorero Joseph
Published: May 2023

Of the types of fishery models that use time series of removals, fishing effort, and indices of abundance, two-stage-structured models are less prevalent, especially in developing the maximum sustainable yield (MSY) benchmarks, in part because of ignorance of how to calculate those benchmarks. To fill this gap, this study aims to derive analytical expressions for calculating MSY benchmarks associated with a continuous delay-differential model, given that the recruit stage relates to the spawning-stock biomass (SSB) according to a stock–recruit relationship (SRR) and that the SRR parameters are combined with the components of the composite (two-stage-structured or age-aggregated) yield per-recruit model CYPR14. The focus is on analytical expressions of the fishing mortality producing MSY ( FMSY), considering that the equilibrium yield comes from either the equilibrium SSB at the start of fishing regimes or the equilibrium average SSB during fishing regimes. The expressions obtained are versatile for all two-stage-structured models. Derivations employing the fished equilibrium average SSB are recommended for use because they produce precautionary MSY benchmarks and because they are consistent with their counterparts in contemporary age-structured stock assessment models.
Shortest Journeys in Directed Temporal Graphs
Authors: Cheng Siu-Wing
Published: May 2023

Consider a directed temporal graph [Formula: see text] with time ranges on the edges. There can be more than one range on an edge, and each range carries a positive traversal time. Let [Formula: see text] and let [Formula: see text] be the total number of time ranges in [Formula: see text]. We assume that [Formula: see text]. We study the problem of computing shortest journeys that start from a fixed source vertex [Formula: see text] within a given time interval [Formula: see text], where the cost of a journey is equal to the sum of traversal times of the edges on it at the times of crossing those edges. We can construct in [Formula: see text] time a data structure of size [Formula: see text] such that for any vertex [Formula: see text] and any time [Formula: see text], we can report in [Formula: see text] time the cost of the shortest journey that starts from [Formula: see text] within [Formula: see text] and arrives at [Formula: see text] no later than [Formula: see text]. The journey achieving the reported cost can be produced in time linear in its complexity.
A high-fat diet increases hepatic mitochondrial turnover through restricted acetylation in a NAFLD mouse model
Authors: Aghayev Mirjavid , Arias-Alvarado Andrea , Ilchenko Sergei , Lepp Josephine , Scott Iain , Chen Yeong-Renn , Zhang Guo-Fang , Tsai Tsung-Heng , Kasumov Takhar
Published: May 2023

This is the first method to quantify acetylome dynamics in vivo. This method revealed acetylation-mediated altered hepatic mitochondrial protein turnover in response to a high-fat diet in a mouse model of NAFLD.
Stimulation-mediated reverse engineering of silent neural networks
Authors: Ren Xiaoxuan , Bok Ilhan , Vareberg Adam , Hai Aviad
Published: May 2023

We introduce a new concept for reverse engineering silent neuronal networks using a supervised learning algorithm combined with stimulation. We quantify the performance of the algorithm and the precision of deriving synaptic weights in inhibitory and excitatory subpopulations. We then show that stimulation enables deciphering connectivity of heterogeneous circuits fed with real electrode array recordings, which could extend in the future to deciphering connectivity in broad biological and artificial neural networks.
A case study of left visual neglect after right pontine lesion: pathophysiological evidence for the infratentorial involvement in human visual attention
Authors: Cazzoli Dario , Kaufmann Brigitte C. , Rühe Henrik , Geiser Nora , Vanbellingen Tim , Nyffeler Thomas
Published: May 2023

Visuospatial attention and its most common disturbance, hemispatial neglect, are typically associated with extended cortical networks. However, recent accounts challenge this corticocentric view and advocate the role of infratentorial structures. We describe, for the first time in a human, the occurrence of contralesional visual hemispatial neglect after a focal lesion in the right pons. We provide causal, lesion-based evidence for a pathophysiological mechanism involving the disconnection of cortico-ponto-cerebellar and/or tecto-cerebellar-tectal pathways passing through the pons.
In Vitro and In Vivo Improvement of Islet Quality and Transplantation Successes following Islet Treatment with Biomaterials in Diabetic Rats
Authors: Nemati Marzieh , Ebrahimi Zahra , Karbalaei Narges , Dastghaib Sanaz , Khakshournia Sara , Sargazi Mojtaba
Published: May 2023

Background. Loss of islet survival and function, caused by native niche disruption and oxidative stress induction during mechanical and enzymatic isolation, limits the effectiveness of islet transplantation. Reconstitution of islet microenvironment, vascularization, and decreased oxidative stress with biomaterials may improve islet quality and graft outcomes. We investigated effects of two biomaterials, platelet-rich plasma and pancreatic islets homogenate combination on islet recovery and quality by evaluating in vitro islet survival, secretory function, and oxidative stress parameters and assessing in vivo transplantation outcomes. Methods. In vitro, islet viability and secretory function of isolated islets were assessed after 24 h and 72 h incubation with biomaterials. Also, oxidative stress markers were measured once after isolation and 24 h after incubation with biomaterials. For evaluating in vivo effects, cultured islets for 24 h were transplanted into subscapular space of diabetic rat kidney, and outcomes were analyzed by measuring serum glucose and insulin concentrations, glucose tolerance test, level of oxidative parameters, and pancreatic gene expression. Results. Treating islets with biomaterials significantly increased their viability and secretory function, reduced MDA level, and elevate SOD and CAT activity. Decreased level of glucose and MDA improved insulin level, increased SOD activity, and also enhanced pdx1 and insulin gene expression in diabetic rats after islet transplantation. Conclusions. Biomaterials used in the present study should be consider as beneficial materials for increasing islet transplantation outcome. These materials may hamper transplantation limitation to some extent.
The Computation of Generalized Invariants
Authors: Madran Uğur
Published: May 2023

In this paper, an algorithm is presented that calculates the module of generalized invariants. Generalized invariants are useful in the study of modular invariant theory, where the characteristic of the base field divides the order of the group. The structure theorems of generalized invariants were given by the author in 2016, and computational aspects of these results are studied in this note. Implementation codes are also provided for MAGMA, computational algebra system.
A Nonisolated Single-Switch Coupled Inductor-Based DC-DC Converter with High Voltage Gain for Renewable Power Generation Systems
Authors: Nouhi Hafez , Talavat Vahid , Farhadi-Kangarlu Mohammad
Published: May 2023

This article proposed a new structure of nonisolated high step-up DC-DC converter based on a three-winding coupled inductor and voltage multiplier cells (VMCs) for renewable energy systems applications such as PV power generation. Continuous input current with low ripple, common ground between output and input ports, low voltage stress across semiconductors, low number of components, high voltage gain, and high efficiency are the main advantages of the proposed converter. In order to further increase the output voltage, the windings of the coupled inductor are combined with VMC. The combination of coupled inductor and VMC technique leads to a high voltage gain with low duty cycle, and therefore the conduction loss of power switch is reduced. Additionally, the diodes’ reverse recovery currents are reduced which improve the presented topology’s efficiency. On the other hand, the used VMCs clamp the voltage, and the peak voltages across power switch are decreased. The operational modes, steady-state, and efficiency analysis are discussed. Also, to demonstrate the performance of the recommended converter, an experimental prototype with 580 W output power and 400 V output voltage with the switching frequency of 25 kHz is built and the experimental results are presented. Also, another 1 kW, 400 V with the switching frequency of 50 kHz has been implemented and tested.
Glutathione Upregulates the Expression of KATP Channels and Vasorelaxation Responses and Inhibits mPTP Opening and Oxidative Stress in the Heart Mitochondria of Old Rats
Authors: Strutynskyi Ruslan , Strutynska Nataliіa , Mys Lidiia , Goshovska Yulia , Korkach Yuliia , Fedichkina Raisa , Okhai Iryna , Strutynskyi Vladyslav , Sagach Vadym
Published: May 2023

Background. In the present work, we investigated the effect of exogenous glutathione in old rats on the expression of ATP‐sensitive potassium (KATP) channels, the mitochondrial permeability transition pore (mPTP) opening in the heart, and the vasorelaxation responses of isolated aortic rings to activation of KATP channels. Methods. Experiments were performed on adult (6 months) and old (24 months) male Wistar rats, which were divided into three groups: adult, old, and glutathione‐treated old rats. Glutathione was injected intraperitoneally at a dose of 52 mg/kg 1 hour before the studies. The mRNA expression of KATP channels was determined using reverse transcription and real‐time polymerase chain reaction analysis. The effect of glutathione administration on mPTP opening, relaxation responses of isolated aortic rings, and oxidative stress markers was studied. Results. It was shown that the expression levels of Kir6.1, Kir6.2, and SUR1 subunits of KATP channels and levels of reduced glutathione were significantly increased in glutathione‐treated old rats (by 8.3, 2.8, 13.1, and 1.5‐fold, respectively), whereas the levels of oxidative stress markers (hydrogen peroxide, diene conjugates, malondialdehyde, and rate of superoxide generation) in heart mitochondria and mPTP opening were significantly reduced. Relaxation of aortic rings was significantly increased in response to the actions of KATP channel openers flocalin and pinacidil in glutathione‐treated animals, which was prevented by glibenclamide. Conclusions. Thus, the administration of exogenous glutathione to old rats resulted in a significant increase in the expression levels of the Kir6.1, Kir6.2, and SUR1 subunits of KATP channels and a decrease in oxidative stress. This was accompanied by inhibition of mPTP opening and enhancement of vasorelaxation responses to activation of KATP channels.
Preparation and Characterization of a Biopesticide Based on Artemisia herba-alba Essential Oil Encapsulated with Succinic Acid-Modified Beta-Cyclodextrin
Authors: Ez-Zoubi Amine , Ez Zoubi Yassine , Bentata Fatiha , El-Mrabet Ayoub , Ben Tahir Chaymae , Labhilili Mustapha , Farah Abdellah
Published: May 2023

Numerous essential oils have been researched as biopesticides because of their effectiveness and environmental safety. Nevertheless, encapsulation is necessary to improve its physical, chemical, and biological properties. Therefore, this paper aims to investigate the physicochemical characteristics and antifungal activity of the Artemisia herba-alba essential oil (HAEO) encapsulated in succinic acid-modified β-cyclodextrin (SACD). Hydrodistillation was used to extract a yellowish oil from the plant A. herba-alba, and gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry was performed to determine the chemical composition. The scanning electron microscope, Fourier transform infrared, thermogravimetric analysis, and docking studies were combined to validate the molecular inclusion of HAEO with SACD. The antifungal activity was examined against Botrytis cinerea by direct contact with a potato dextrose agar. The results showed that the main compound in HAEO was α-thujone (65.0%). Furthermore, HAEO has been successfully incorporated into SACD with a binding energy value of −5.3 kJ·mol−1, and its thermal stability improved. At a 0.1% concentration, HAEO in encapsulated form showed a higher ability to inhibit B. cinerea (38.34%), compared to EO in free form (12.00%). Thus, these findings produced evidence that the strategy of encapsulating EOs by SACD can develop novel B. cinerea inhibitors and a promising alternative biopesticide.