bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Creating yellow seed Camelina sativa with enhanced oil accumulation by CRISPR‐mediated disruption of Transparent Testa 8
Authors: Cai Yuanheng , Liang Yuanxue , Shi Hai , Cui Jodie , Prakash Shreyas , Zhang Jianhui , Anaokar Sanket , Chai Jin , Schwender Jorg , Lu Chaofu , Yu Xiao‐Hong , Shanklin John
Published: June 2024

Camelina (Camelina sativa L.), a hexaploid member of the Brassicaceae family, is an emerging oilseed crop being developed to meet the increasing demand for plant oils as biofuel feedstocks. In other Brassicas, high oil content can be associated with a yellow seed phenotype, which is unknown for camelina. We sought to create yellow seed camelina using CRISPR/Cas9 technology to disrupt its Transparent Testa 8 (TT8) transcription factor genes and to evaluate the resulting seed phenotype. We identified three TT8 genes, one in each of the three camelina subgenomes, and obtained independent CsTT8 lines containing frameshift edits. Disruption of TT8 caused seed coat colour to change from brown to yellow reflecting their reduced flavonoid accumulation of up to 44%, and the loss of a well‐organized seed coat mucilage layer. Transcriptomic analysis of CsTT8‐edited seeds revealed significantly increased expression of the lipid‐related transcription factors LEC1, LEC2, FUS3, and WRI1 and their downstream fatty acid synthesis‐related targets. These changes caused metabolic remodelling with increased fatty acid synthesis rates and corresponding increases in total fatty acid (TFA) accumulation from 32.4% to as high as 38.0% of seed weight, and TAG yield by more than 21% without significant changes in starch or protein levels compared to parental line. These data highlight the effectiveness of CRISPR in creating novel enhanced‐oil germplasm in camelina. The resulting lines may directly contribute to future net‐zero carbon energy production or be combined with other traits to produce desired lipid‐derived bioproducts at high yields.
Evaluation of Materials Waste Reuse Methods on Construction Sites in Ibadan Metropolis, Nigeria
Authors: Akinradewo Olusola Festus , Ogunmola Oluwakemi Elizabeth , Awodele Oluwaseyi A.
Published: June 2024

The construction industry is affected by the continuous generation of waste and poor waste management. Thus, waste management has become a major concern in the industry, as waste cannot be eliminated due to off-cuts of materials from the irregular shape, change in design during construction cause diverse waste. This study, therefore, assesses material that is prone to waste and identifies methods of reuse on construction sites. A pilot survey on registered building construction firms in which head-offices are located within the Ibadan metropolis was conducted based on the list of top construction companies obtained from the Bureau of Public Procurement in Oyo State, Nigeria. “Five” construction firms confirmed they practice waste management and shared their experience on worksites. A qualitative research approach was used to evaluate the objectives of the study. Content analysis and frequency were used as the basic analytical tool of the study. Results show that repurpose, remanufacture and salvage methods are proactive reuse methods to achieve low waste generated on construction sites. The study concluded that the use of reusable construction materials waste on construction sites will promote quality materials usage and save time taken to purchase new materials.
Educational Innovations in Undergraduate Health Care: A Scope Review
Authors: Bayer Nara Emily Knopp , Silva Gisele Souza da , Basilio Pedro Henrique Gunha , Scherer Jonas Luis , Andrade Diancarlos Pereira de , Prado Maria Rosa Machado
Published: June 2024

Higher education has undergone a series of significant transformations in recent decades, driven by advances in technology and the demands of a constantly evolving world. This scoping review investigated educational innovations in health education, guided by the transformations resulting from technological advances and the dynamic demands of contemporary society. The study was carried out based on the recommendations of the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) protocol and the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) checklist. The search engines used were PubMed Central, Virtual Health Library (VHL) and Embase, through the Portal de Periódicos da Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior (CAPES) with Health Sciences Descriptors (DeCS) and Medical Subject Headings (MeSH). After reading and analyzing the 17 articles selected, three categories emerged: "Active study methodologies"; "Learning technologies"; and "Integration between active methodologies and technologies as a teaching strategy". Active study methodologies, such as problem-based and team-based learning and the use of real clinical scenarios, have been shown to be effective in promoting student involvement in the learning process. The use of learning technologies, such as virtual reality, online simulations and mobile health applications, complements and enriches health teaching. The integration of active methodologies and digital technologies is emerging as an essential strategy for health teaching in the contemporary era.
Arterial function in response to a 50 km ultramarathon in recreational athletes
Authors: Ranadive Sushant M. , Weiner Cynthia M. , Eagan Lauren E. , Addison Odessa , Landers‐Ramos Rian Q. , Prior Steven J.
Published: June 2024

This study was performed to determine whether prolonged endurance running results in acute endothelial dysfunction and wave‐reflection, as endothelial dysfunction and arterial stiffness are cardiovascular risk factors. Vascular function (conduit artery/macrovascular and resistance artery/microvascular) was assessed in 11 experienced runners (8 males, 3 females) before, during and after a 50 km ultramarathon. Blood pressure (BP), heart rate (HR), wave reflection, augmentation index (AIx) and AIx corrected for HR (AIx75) were taken at all time points—Baseline (BL), following 10, 20, 30 and 40 km, 1 h post‐completion (1HP) and 24 h post‐completion (24HP). Flow‐mediated dilatation (FMD) and inflammatory biomarkers were examined at BL, 1HP and 24HP. Reactive hyperaemia area under the curve (AUC) and shear rate AUC to peak dilatation were lower (∼75%) at 1HP compared with BL (P < 0.001 for both) and reactive hyperaemia was higher at 24HP (∼27%) compared with BL (P = 0.018). Compared to BL, both mean central systolic BP and mean central diastolic BP were 7% and 10% higher, respectively, following 10 km and 6% and 9% higher, respectively, following 20 km, and then decreased by 5% and 8%, respectively, at 24HP (P < 0.05 for all). AIx (%) decreased following 20 km and following 40 km compared with BL (P < 0.05 for both) but increased following 40 km when corrected for HR (AIx75) compared with BL (P = 0.02). Forward wave amplitude significantly increased at 10 km (15%) compared with BL (P = 0.049), whereas backward wave reflection and reflected magnitude were similar at all time points. FMD and baseline diameter remained similar. These data indicate preservation of macrovascular (endothelial) function, but not microvascular function resulting from the 50 km ultramarathon.
Research on Wear Behavior Between Crossed Parabolic Cylinders in the Early Stage of Cyclic Fretting
Authors: Shi Hao , Guo Tieneng , Wang Chenhang , Li Bo , Jiang Nan , Zhang Jianshuo
Published: June 2024

In practice, even the tiny relative reciprocating motion generated by external load or environmental vibration can cause interface wear. In this work, three-dimensional (3D) finite element analysis (FEA) is used to investigate the fretting wear between deformable crossed parabolic cylinders. Fretting is achieved by the application of a periodic displacement-controlled load, while the contact pair is defined as the same material, i.e., carbon steel/carbon steel, copper alloy/copper alloy, and aluminum alloy/aluminum alloy. Meanwhile, three different axis crossing angles are also studied, i.e., 45 deg, 60 deg, and 90 deg. Originally, a wide range of coefficients of friction (COFs) are applied to the interface without considering the damage. The results show that, when the COF is sufficiently large (μ = 1), the junction growth and the tangential load increase significantly in the first loading cycle, but then become gradually stable. Subsequently, the Archard wear model is applied to the frictional interface. Empirical equations for the initial gross slip distance and the wear volume at the end of the partial slip are established in turn. Furthermore, an empirical equation for the wear volume of a single fretting cycle is established, which is in good agreement with the FEA results. Finally, the effect of relevant parameters on the wear volume for a single fretting cycle under elastic condition is discussed, but also the evolution of wear volume in the early stage of cyclic fretting. All the results are normalized, enabling their application to the 3D fretting wear of other material pairs.
Theoretical and Experimental Study on the Trans-critical Vibration Reduction of Flexible Shafts by Multi-Gap Limiting Ring Device Considering Rub-Impact and Dry Friction
Authors: Zhu Haimin , Wu Wenye
Published: June 2024

The flexible shafts in aviation equipment experience severe vibration upon exceeding the critical speed, causing severe damage to the equipment. To address this issue, a novel technique for vibration reduction using a multi-gap limiting ring device is proposed. The coupled effects of rub-impact, dry friction, and limiting are considered in a dynamic model for a multi-gap limiting ring device, and then the dynamic equation for the bending-torsional coupling of the flexible shaft with the limiting ring device is derived. Furthermore, the reverse whirl instability behavior of the shaft and the effect of various parameters on the damper performance are analyzed using a hybrid numerical method. Finally, experiments are conducted to verify the accuracy of the theoretical method. The findings show that the critical speed of the shaft rises due to the increased stiffness from the rub-impact between the limiting ring device and the shaft. The rub-impact point simultaneously causes bending-torsional coupling, which leads to torsional vibration of the shaft. Moreover, the rubbing gap, friction coefficient, preload force, and dry friction gap have a considerable impact on the limiting ring device's ability to reduce vibration. A poor choice of parameters can result in malfunctioning of the limiting ring device. Overall, this study can serve as an effective theoretical guide for the vibration reduction of flexible shafts.
Mechanism study of H2-plasma assisted Si3N4 layered etch
Authors: Rui Ying , Pandey Sumeet , Hsie Chenmeng , Li Lan
Published: June 2024

The cyclic two-step process, comprised of energetic H2 plasma followed by HF wet clean or in situ NF3 plasma, demonstrates Si3N4 layer-by-layer removal capability exceeding 10 nm per cycle, surpassing typical atomic layer etch methods by an order of magnitude. In this paper, we investigated the surface reaction mechanisms via first principle density functional theory simulations and surface analysis. The results unveiled that energetic H2 plasma, in the first step, selectively removes nitrogen (N) in preference to silicon (Si), generating ammonia (NHx) and transforming Si3N4 into SiON upon exposure to air, which becomes removable by HF wet clean in the second step. For the second step employing in situ NF3 plasma, it further leverages H-passivated surfaces to enhance NF3 dissociation and provide alternative reaction pathways to yield volatile byproducts such as SiHF3 and SiFx, thereby significantly improving nitride removal efficiency.
16S rRNA amplicon sequencing of intestinal microbiota in Eurasian Wigeon around Osaka, Japan
Authors: Kenzaka Takehiko , Nishiguchi Sayaka , Nishikawa Souko
Published: June 2024

We report 16S rRNA gene amplicon data on the succession of intestinal microbiomes in migratory bird, Eurasian Wigeon (Mareca Penelope) wintering around Osaka, Japan. This study could serve as baseline data for comparison with microbiomes in migratory birds.
Complete genome sequence of
Tornadovirus japonicus
, a relative of Pacmanvirus, isolated from the Tamagawa River in Japan
Authors: Waschestjuk Daniel , Murata Kazuyoshi , Takemura Masaharu
Published: June 2024

Here, we report the isolation and genome sequencing of a new Pacmanvirus-related isolate,
Tornadovirus japonicus
, from the Tamagawa River in Japan. This icosahedral virus has a genome of approximately 380 kb and 465 open reading frames, including two tRNA genes. The name “tornado” is based on its morphological features revealed by transmission electron microscopy analysis.
Complete genome sequence of the
Exiguobacterium
bacteriophage
Authors: Camacho-Beltrán Erika , Morales-Aguilar Juan José , López-Meyer Melina , Rincón-Enríquez Gabriel , Quiñones-Aguilar Evangelina Esmeralda
Published: June 2024

We purified a lytic bacteriophage from soil collected in Guasave, Sinaloa: phiExGM16. This bacteriophage was isolated using the host,
Exiguobacterium acetilycum
. Its 17.6 kb genome contains 33 putative genes and shows a cover of 64% with 76.37% of nucleotide identity to
Microbacterium phage
Noelani.
Supplemental Material: Determining the age and origin of a Tertiary karstic system by in situ U-Pb geochronology on speleothems
Authors: Moreau Kevin , al. et
Published: June 2024

Supplemental text, Figures S1 to S15 (field samples, thin-sections, and isochrons), Table S1 (synthesis of U-Pb dating results), and Table S2 (metadata for LA-ICP-MS U-Pb ages of calcite).  
Replication of a local record keeping method for collecting road crash data in low resource settings: lessons from Bangladesh and Nepal
Authors: Thierry Martijn , Khadka Anish , Uddin Kazi Burhan , Parkin John , Rahman AKM Fazlur , Joshi Sunil Kumar , Mytton Julie A
Published: June 2024

Background

Police road crash and injury data in low-income and middle-income countries are known to under-report crashes, fatalities and injuries, especially for vulnerable road users. Local record keepers, who are members of the public, can be engaged to provide an additional source of crash and injury data.

Methods

This paper compares the application of a local record keeper method to capture road crash and injury data in Bangladesh and Nepal, assesses the quality of the data collected and evaluates the replicability and value of the methodology using a framework developed to evaluate the impact of being a local record keeper.

Outcome

Application in research studies in both Bangladesh and Nepal found the local record keeper methodology provided high-quality and complete data compared with local police records. The methodology was flexible enough to adapt to project and context differences. The evaluation framework enabled the identification of the challenges and unexpected benefits realised in each study. This led to the development of an 11-step process for conducting road crash data collection using local record keepers, which is presented to facilitate replication in other settings.

Conclusion

Data collected by local record keepers are a flexible and replicable method to understand the strengths and limitations of existing police data, adding to the evidence base and informing local and national decision-making. The method may create additional benefits for data collectors and communities, help design and assess road safety interventions and support advocacy for improved routine police data.
Management and prevention strategies for osteoarthritis in tactical athletes
Authors: O'Sullivan Oliver
Published: June 2024

Osteoarthritis (OA) affects over 600 million worldwide, is one of the leading causes of disability and has a significant burden of morbidity. There are multiple modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors, with professional and tactical athletes at higher risk than other occupational groups. Without specific anti-OA pharmacological agents, clinicians may feel helpless. However, primary, secondary and tertiary preventative strategies can slow or prevent OA development or progression. There are many modifiable risk factors which, if targeted, can contribute to an improvement in the experience of people living with OA. Radiological features of OA may signify the presence of ‘the disease’; however, the pain and symptoms experienced may be more accurately described as ‘the illness’. Targeting both, using a combination of the medical and biopsychosocial models of care, will improve the overall experience.

This paper outlines some easily adoptable general and specific strategies to help manage this common and disabling condition, focused on improving joint healthspan, not just joint lifespan. They include education and communication, empowering individuals to confidently self-manage their condition with access to healthcare resources when required. A holistic package, including support for sleep, diet and weight loss, physical activity and specific home-based exercise routines, with appropriate analgesia when needed, can all improve OA illness and potentially slow OA disease development or progression. Clinicians should feel confident that there are many opportunities to intervene and mitigate the risk factors of OA, using various preventative strategies, especially in a young, physically active population with functional occupational or recreational demands.
Hidden flaws in e-cigarette industry-funded studies
Authors: Soule Eric K , Rossheim Matthew E , Livingston Melvin D , LoParco Cassidy R , Tillett Kayla K , Eissenberg Thomas , Sussman Steve
Published: June 2024

Electronic cigarette (e-cigarette) use has increased since e-cigarettes were introduced to the market nearly 20 years ago. Researchers continue to conduct studies to understand the health risks and benefits of e-cigarettes to inform health education and promotion efforts as well as public policy. Studies funded by the tobacco industry examining the potential risks and benefits of e-cigarettes have also been conducted and are sometimes published in the scientific literature. Frequently, tobacco and e-cigarette industry-funded researchers report findings that contradict research funded by other sources. While many industry-funded studies may appear methodologically sound at first glance, in some cases, industry-funded studies include methodological flaws that result in misleading conclusions. The tobacco industry’s use of biased research to influence tobacco-related policy decisions in the past is well-documented. This commentary provides specific examples of recent e-cigarette research funded by the tobacco/e-cigarette industry in which methodological flaws result in misleading conclusions that support industry goals. Given the long history of biased research conducted by the tobacco industry, there is a need to assess whether research funded by the e-cigarette industry similarly contains methodological flaws. We emphasise the need for tobacco and e-cigarette-funded research to be scrutinised by non-industry-funded subject matter experts and call for journals to not consider manuscripts that have received support from the tobacco or e-cigarette industry.
Impact of product-based e-cigarette marketing on the attitudes and behavioural intentions of young Australians: an experimental study
Authors: Jongenelis Michelle I , McCausland Kahlia , Bode Stefan , Howard Tess , Ledger Melissa , Durkin Sarah J
Published: June 2024

Background

The tobacco industry has a history of using language to downplay the harms associated with cigarettes and mislead consumers and policymakers. Emerging evidence suggests similar tactics are being used in the context of e-cigarettes; however, exploration of the impact of product name on attitudes towards e-cigarettes and susceptibility to use is lacking. This experimental study explored whether attitudes towards e-cigarettes and susceptibility to use are influenced by the names used by the industry to describe and market these products.

Method

An accredited web panel provider recruited a sample of 383 Australians aged 12–29 years who had never smoked to participate in an online survey that featured an embedded experiment. Participants were randomly allocated to one of three conditions, each of which used a different name to describe e-cigarettes (condition 1: ‘e-cigarettes’, condition 2: ‘vapes’; condition 3: either ‘IGETS’, ‘Puff Bars’, ‘HQD Cuvies’ or ‘Gunnpods’). The survey assessed respondents’ overall opinion of the product described; attitudes towards the product; liking of the product; and curiosity, willingness and intentions to use the product.

Results

Those in the ‘brand name’ condition scored higher than those in the ‘e-cigarettes’ condition on all dependent variables. Those in the ‘vapes’ condition scored higher than those in the ‘e-cigarettes’ condition on product attitude.

Conclusion

Findings indicate that the use of brand names and terms such as ‘vapes’ instead of ‘e-cigarettes’ results in more favourable attitudes towards e-cigarettes and susceptibility to use among young Australians. Results highlight the problematic influence of promotional language use favoured by industry.
On the solutions for the Novikov equation
Authors: Coclite Giuseppe Maria , di Ruvo Lorenzo
Published: June 2024

The Novikov equation is a generalization of the Camassa–Holm one. It models the propagation of unidirectional shallow water waves on a flat bottom. In this paper, we prove the well-posedness of [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] solutions of the Cauchy problem, associated with this equation.
Numerical Analysis and Research on Mass Transfer Performance of Vanadium Redox Flow Battery Based on Novel Spiral Flow Field
Authors: Li Zeyu , Wang Fuzhen , Huang Zebo
Published: June 2024

The high safety factor of all-vanadium redox flow batteries (VRFBs) has positioned them as a leading choice for large-scale stationary energy storage. However, their further development is limited by their low energy density and high cost. Flow field performance emerges as a critical factor significantly influencing battery performance. In this paper, we propose a novel spiral flow field (NSFF), which deviates from the commonly serpentine and parallel flow fields. Our research findings demonstrate that, at a flow rate of 180 ml min−1 and a current density of 90 mA cm−2, the NSFF achieves, respectively, 3.65% and 9.8% higher energy efficiency compared to the serpentine and parallel flow fields. Moreover, the state of health of the NSFF after multiple cycles reaches an impressive level of 72.18%, surpassing that of the serpentine and parallel flow fields by 9.97% and 32.12%, respectively.
Modeling of Pore-Scale Capillary-Dominated Flow and Bubble Detachment in PEM Water Electrolyzer Anodes Using the Volume of Fluid Method
Authors: Schmidt Gergely , Niblett Daniel , Niasar Vahid , Neuweiler Insa
Published: June 2024

Fluid dynamics models complement expensive experiments with limited measurement accuracy that investigate the mass transport in PEM water electrolysis. Here, a first-principle microscale model for oxygen transport is successfully validated that accounts for (1) uncertain transport processes in catalyst layers, (2) numerically challenging capillary-dominated two-phase flow and (3) bubble detachments in channels. We developed algorithms for the stochastic generation of geometries and for the coupling of flow and transport processes. The flow model is based on the volume of fluid method and reproduces experimentally measured pressure drops and bubble velocities within minichannels with a 30% and 20% accuracy, respectively, provided that the capillary number is above 2.1 × 10−7. At lower capillary numbers, excessive spurious currents occur. Correspondingly, two-phase flow simulations within the porous transport layers are stable at current densities above 0.5 A cm−2 and match operando gas saturation measurements within a 20% margin at relevant locations. The simulated bubble detachments occur at pore throats that agree with porosimetry and microfluidic experiments. The presented model allows explaining and optimizing mass transport processes in channels and porous transport layers. These were found to be negligibly sensitive to transport resistances within the catalyst layer, providing information on boundary conditions for future catalyst layer models.
Air Plasma Modification of Graphite-Based Electrode for Improved Performance of Aqueous Redox Flow Batteries
Authors: Bassil Patricia , Fall Coumba , Boutamine Karim , Favier Frédéric , Le Vot Steven
Published: June 2024

Graphite felt is widely utilized as a porous carbon electrode in aqueous redox flow batteries (RFBs). However, its inherent hydrophobic nature and limited electrochemical activity present challenges. While the correlation between RFB performance and electrode properties has been extensively studied for vanadium chemistry and other inorganic redox active materials, it remains scarce in literature for organic systems. In this study, we employ air plasma treatment, known for its controllability, solvent-free nature, and short treatment duration, to modify commercially available graphite felt for RFB applications. A comprehensive analysis is conducted to establish correlations between plasma treatment, physical properties, electrochemical characteristics, and overall cell performance in aqueous RFBs. Comparative evaluation reveals a significant enhancement, with treated graphite felt exhibiting an 85% increase in capacity at 140 mA cm−2 compared to its pristine counterpart. By intentionally utilizing authentic RFB electrodes and employing state-of-the-art ferrocyanide posolyte, this study underscores the crucial role of the interface, even for rapid (reversible) redox-active materials utilized in AORFBs.
Alterations in gastrointestinal motility assessed by high-resolution antroduodenal manometry in patients with severe disorders of gut-brain interaction
Authors: Soliman Heithem , Wuestenberghs Fabien , Desprez Charlotte , Leroi Anne-Marie , Melchior Chloé , Gourcerol Guillaume
Published: June 2024

Gastrointestinal dysmotility has been assessed poorly in disorders of gut-brain interaction (DGBI), especially with high-resolution antroduodenal manometry. Plots of DGBI patients showed lower duodenal contractions during phase II regarding amplitude, frequency, and contractile integral/sensor (CI/s) compared with healthy volunteers. A lower frequency of propagated antroduodenal contractions was also reported. Finally, antral CI/s was lower in patients with functional dyspepsia during phase III. Further studies are needed to assess the clinical significance of these alterations.
Mapping the rat gastric slow-wave conduction pathway: bridging in vitro and in vivo methods, revealing a loosely coupled region in the distal stomach
Authors: Athavale Omkar N. , Di Natale Madeleine R. , Avci Recep , Clark Alys R. , Furness John B. , Cheng Leo K. , Du Peng
Published: June 2024

Mapping of rat gastric slow waves showed regional variations in their organization. In some subjects, separate wavefronts propagated near the lesser and greater curvatures with a loosely coupled region near the midline, between the wavefronts, having a varying slow-wave origin. Furthermore, simultaneous intracellular and extracellular recordings were concordant and independent of movement artifacts, indicating that extracellular recordings can be interpreted in terms of their intracellular counterparts when intracellular recording is not possible.
PAI-1 deficiency drives pulmonary vascular smooth muscle remodeling and pulmonary hypertension
Authors: Kudryashova Tatiana V. , Zaitsev Sergei V. , Jiang Lifeng , Buckley Benjamin J. , McGuckin Joshua P. , Goncharov Dmitry , Zhyvylo Iryna , Lin Derek , Newcomb Geoffrey , Piper Bryce , Bogamuwa Srimathi , Saiyed Aisha , Teos Leyla , Pena Andressa , Ranson Marie , Greenland John R. , Wolters Paul J. , Kelso Michael J. , Poncz Mortimer , DeLisser Horace M. , Cines Douglas B. , Goncharova Elena A. , Farkas Laszlo , Stepanova Victoria
Published: June 2024

This study identifies a novel role for the deficiency of plasminogen activator inhibitor (PAI)-1 and resultant unrestricted uPA activity in PASMC remodeling and PH in vitro and in vivo, provides novel mechanistic link from PAI-1 loss through uPA-induced Akt/mTOR and TGFβ-Smad3 upregulation to pulmonary vascular remodeling in PH, and suggests that inhibition of uPA to rebalance the uPA-PAI-1 tandem might provide a novel approach to complement current therapies used to mitigate this pulmonary vascular disease.
Neuroprotection provided by hypothermia initiated with high transnasal flow with ambient air in a model of pediatric cardiac arrest
Authors: Yang Zeng-Jin , Hopkins C. Danielle , Santos Polan T. , Adams Shawn , Kulikowicz Ewa , Lee Jennifer K. , Tandri Harikrishna , Koehler Raymond C.
Published: June 2024

The onset of therapeutic hypothermia after cardiac resuscitation is often delayed, leading to incomplete neuroprotection. In an infant swine model of asphyxic cardiac arrest, initiation of high transnasal airflow to maximize nasal evaporative cooling produced hypothermia sufficient to provide neuroprotection that was not inferior to body surface cooling. Because of its simplicity and portability, this technique may be of use in the field or emergency room for rapid brain cooling in pediatric cardiac arrest victims.
Modal Parameter Identification and Damage Localization of Composite Helicopter Rotor Blades Based on AR/PR Identification
Authors: Wang Zefeng , Sun Yuhan , Li Jie , Song Zhiguang
Published: June 2024

The structural characteristics and application background of helicopters determine that the primary dynamic components work in environments with high cyclic amplitude and low‐stress vibration fatigue load. As the most critical structural system of helicopters, structural health monitoring of the rotor blades is necessary to avoid fatigue damage under working conditions. Modal parameters, as functions of the physical properties of structural systems, change when there is damage or internal defects (the mass, stiffness, and damping of the structure will change). This article completes the identification of modal parameters of composite rotor blades under working conditions based on operational modal analysis (OMA). Specifically, using the AR/PR (autoregressive/polyreference) time‐domain identification method, experiments are designed to identify the modal parameters (natural frequency, modal damping ratio, and mode shape) of composite rotor blades based on acceleration and strain signals. The results of the identification of modal parameters are verified through finite element simulation and modal measurement experiments. In addition, the application of OMA for the location of composite rotor blade damage is also studied.
Dissecting Genetic Diversity and Evolutionary Trends of Chinese PRRSV‐1 Based on Whole‐Genome Analysis
Authors: Gong Bangjun , Xu Hu , Sun Qi , Li Chao , Xiang Lirun , Zhao Jing , Li Wansheng , Guo Zhenyang , Li Jinhao , Wang Qian , Peng Jinmei , Zhou Guohui , Leng Chaoliang , Tang Yan-Dong , Wu Jianan , Liu Huairan , An Tong-Qing , Cai Xuehui , Tian Zhi-Jun , Zhang Hongliang
Published: June 2024

Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS) poses a serious threat to the Chinese swine industry. The etiological agent PRRSV can be classified as either PRRSV‐1 or PRRSV‐2. Recent studies have revealed an increase in the rates of PRRSV‐1 detection and a wider PRRSV‐1 distribution. However, the PRRSV‐1 genome in China has yet to be fully characterized. In this study, 24 whole PRRSV‐1 genomes from different swine farms were assembled and subjected to whole‐genome analysis. A phylogenetic analysis based on the complete genome and ORF5 sequences revealed that the PRRSV‐1 strains from China belonged to Western European Subtype I and could be classified into seven subgroups. Statistical analysis revealed that BJEU06‐1‐Like PRRSV is currently the predominant PRRSV‐1 strain. Moreover, a similarity analysis showed low pairwise similarity between most PRRSV‐1 genomes from different pig farms. Amino acid alignments of the Nsp2 gene revealed that the BJEU06‐1‐Like subgroup had five discontinued aa deletions (4 + 1). The new subgroup 1 had 11 continued aa deletions and an aa insertion, the new subgroup 2 had two discontinued aa deletions (1 + 1), and, except for in the case of HKEU16, the HKEU16‐Like subgroup had five discontinuous aa deletions (1 + 4). Recombination analysis revealed that the BJEU06‐1‐Like and NMEU09‐1‐Like strains participated extensively in recent recombination events. The analysis of positive selection suggested that there were 15 positively selected codons in site model, and there were five sites under positive selection in the BJEU06‐1‐Like subgroup in the branch‐site model. The mean rate and tMRCA for PRRSV‐1 strains from China were 4.11 × 10−3 substitutions/site/year and 1,969.63, respectively. Thus, it is crucial to strengthen epidemiological surveys of PRRSV‐1 in China, especially those monitoring BJEU06‐1‐Like PRRSV.
CDK4/6 Alters TBK1 Phosphorylation to Inhibit the STING Signaling Pathway in Prostate Cancer
Authors: Li Wei , Guo Feng , Zeng Ruijiang , Liang Huaiyuan , Wang Yinhuai , Xiong Wei , Wu Heshui , Yang Chunguang , Jin Xin
Published: June 2024

The efficacy of immunotherapy in patients with prostate cancer is limited due to the “cold” tumor microenvironment and the paucity of neoantigens. The STING-TBK1-IRF3 signaling axis is involved in innate immunity and has been increasingly recognized as a candidate target for cancer immunotherapy. Here, we found that treatment with CDK4/6 inhibitors stimulates the STING pathway and enhances the antitumor effect of STING agonists in prostate cancer. Mechanistically, CDK4/6 phosphorylated TBK1 at S527 to inactivate the STING signaling pathway independent of RB1 in prostate cancer cells. CDK4/6-mediated phosphorylation of RB1 at S249/T252 also induced the interaction of RB1 with TBK1 to diminish the phosphorylation of TBK1 at S172, which suppressed STING pathway activation. Overall, this study showed that CDK4/6 suppresses the STING pathway through RB1-dependent and RB1-independent pathways, indicating that CDK4/6 inhibition could be a potential strategy to overcome immunosuppression in prostate cancer.

Significance: Inhibiting CDK4/6 activates STING-TBK1-IRF3 signaling in prostate cancer by regulating TBK1 phosphorylation, suggesting that the combination of CDK4/6 inhibitors and STING agonists could be an effective approach to stimulate innate immunity.
Ku70 Binding to YAP Alters PARP1 Ubiquitination to Regulate Genome Stability and Tumorigenesis
Authors: Shu Yinyin , Jin Xiaoni , Ji Mintao , Zhang Zhisen , Wang Xiuxiu , Liang Haisheng , Lu Shuangshuang , Dong Shuai , Lin Yiping , Guo Yuhan , Zhuang Qiuyu , Wang Yuhong , Lei Zhe , Guo Lingchuan , Meng Xuanyu , Zhou Guangming , Zhang Wensheng , Chang Lei
Published: June 2024

Yes-associated protein (YAP) is a central player in cancer development, with functions extending beyond its recognized role in cell growth regulation. Recent work has identified a link between YAP/transcriptional coactivator with PDZ-binding motif (TAZ) and the DNA damage response. Here, we investigated the mechanistic underpinnings of the cross-talk between DNA damage repair and YAP activity. Ku70, a key component of the nonhomologous end joining pathway to repair DNA damage, engaged in a dynamic competition with TEAD4 for binding to YAP, limiting the transcriptional activity of YAP. Depletion of Ku70 enhanced interaction between YAP and TEAD4 and boosted YAP transcriptional capacity. Consequently, Ku70 loss enhanced tumorigenesis in colon cancer and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in vivo. YAP impeded DNA damage repair and elevated genome instability by inducing PARP1 degradation through the SMURF2-mediated ubiquitin-proteasome pathway. Analysis of samples from patients with HCC substantiated the link between Ku70 expression, YAP activity, PARP1 levels, and genome instability. In conclusion, this research provides insight into the mechanistic interactions between YAP and key regulators of DNA damage repair, highlighting the role of a Ku70-YAP-PARP1 axis in preserving genome stability.

Significance: Increased yes-associated protein transcriptional activity stimulated by loss of Ku70 induces PARP1 degradation by upregulating SMURF2 to inhibit DNA damage, driving genome instability and tumorigenesis.
Supplementary Table S3 from Hemangiosarcoma Cells Promote Conserved Host-derived Hematopoietic Expansion
Authors: Kim Jong Hyuk , Schulte Ashley J. , Sarver Aaron L. , Lee Donghee , Angelos Mathew G. , Frantz Aric M. , Forster Colleen L. , O'Brien Timothy D. , Cornax Ingrid , O'Sullivan M. Gerard , Cheng Nuojin , Lewellen Mitzi , Oseth LeAnn , Kumar Sunil , Bullman Susan , Pedamallu Chandra Sekhar , Goyal Sagar M. , Meyerson Matthew , Lund Troy C. , Breen Matthew , Lindblad-Toh Kerstin , Dickerson Erin B. , Kaufman Dan S. , Modiano Jaime F.
Published: June 2024

Supplementary Table S3
FIGURE 5 from Hemangiosarcoma Cells Promote Conserved Host-derived Hematopoietic Expansion
Authors: Kim Jong Hyuk , Schulte Ashley J. , Sarver Aaron L. , Lee Donghee , Angelos Mathew G. , Frantz Aric M. , Forster Colleen L. , O'Brien Timothy D. , Cornax Ingrid , O'Sullivan M. Gerard , Cheng Nuojin , Lewellen Mitzi , Oseth LeAnn , Kumar Sunil , Bullman Susan , Pedamallu Chandra Sekhar , Goyal Sagar M. , Meyerson Matthew , Lund Troy C. , Breen Matthew , Lindblad-Toh Kerstin , Dickerson Erin B. , Kaufman Dan S. , Modiano Jaime F.
Published: June 2024

Gene expression analysis in DHSA-1426 hemangiosarcoma cells and xenograft tumors using RNA-seq data. A, The volcano plot visualizes 2,391 significant DEGs (1,034 upregulated and 1,357 downregulated) in DHSA-1426 cells (n = 3) compared with nonmalignant endothelial cells (n = 4; q-value < 0.01; log2 fold change > |2|). The DEGs are indicated by red dots. NS = not significant; log2FC = log2 fold change. B, Gene Ontology enrichment analysis depicts biological processes associated with significant DEGs. P, adjust = adjusted P-value. C, Bar graphs present normalized gene expression values of CSF3, IL6, and IL8 in RNA-seq data generated from canine nonmalignant endothelial cells (n = 4) and DHSA-1426 hemangiosarcoma cells (n = 3). D, Schematic illustration visualizes the experimental steps for species-specific gene expression analysis of xenograft tumors using RNA-seq data. E, Bar graphs show the expression of mouse-specific genes in RNA-seq data generated from xenograft tumor tissues of canine hemangiosarcoma (n = 4) and mouse lymphoma (n = 7). A two-way ANOVA test was conducted to compare the means between groups. ****, P < 0.0001
Blood Lactate Levels during Therapeutic Hypothermia and Neurodevelopmental Outcome or Death at 18–24 Months of Age in Neonates with Moderate and Severe Hypoxic-Ischemic Encephalopathy
Authors: Boerger Wencke , Mozun Rebeca , Frey Bernhard , Liamlahi Rabia , Grass Beate , Brotschi Barbara
Published: June 2024

Introduction: Blood lactate levels in neonates with hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) vary, and their impact on neurodevelopmental outcome is unclear. We assessed blood lactate course over time in neonates with HIE during therapeutic hypothermia (TH) and investigated if blood lactate values were associated with neurodevelopmental outcome at 2 years of age. Methods: This is a retrospective cohort study of neonates with HIE born between 2013 and 2019, treated at the University Children’s Hospital Zurich. We recorded blood lactate values over time and calculated time until lactate was ≤2 mmol/L. Neurodevelopmental outcome was assessed at 18–24 months of age using the Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development, Third Edition (BSID-III), and categorized as favorable or unfavorable. We investigated associations between blood lactate values and outcome using logistic regression and adjusted for Sarnat stage. Results: 33/45 neonates (69%) had a favorable and 14 (31%) an unfavorable neurodevelopmental outcome. Mean initial lactate values were lower in the favorable (13.9 mmol/L, standard deviation [SD]: 2.9) versus unfavorable group (17.1 mmol/L, SD 3.2; p = 0.002). Higher initial and maximal blood lactate levels were associated with unfavorable outcome, also when adjusted for Sarnat stage (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 1.37, 95% CI: 1.01–1.88, p = 0.046, and aOR: 1.35, 95% CI: 1.01–1.81, p = 0.041, respectively). Conclusion: In neonates with HIE receiving TH, initial and maximal blood lactate levels were associated with neurodevelopmental outcome at 18–24 months of age, also when adjusted for Sarnat stage. Further investigations to analyze blood lactate as a biomarker for prognostic value are needed.
Serum Catestatin Levels in Patients with Acne Vulgaris: Single-Center Prospective Study
Authors: Yücesoy Sera Nur , Ak Tumay , Öner Sena , Serdaroğlu Server
Published: June 2024

Introduction: Recent studies showed that antimicrobial peptides have an essential role in the pathogenesis of acne vulgaris. This study aims to investigate serum catestatin levels in acne vulgaris patients and focuses on the change in serum levels after systemic isotretinoin therapy. Methods: This prospective study includes 101 acne vulgaris patients and 28 healthy controls. Serum catestatin levels were measured and compared between acne vulgaris and control group patients. Also, serum catestatin levels were measured again at the 24th week of isotretinoin therapy. Results: The serum catestatin levels in patients with acne vulgaris were statistically higher than in the control group (p < 0.001). In addition, serum catestatin levels were associated with the severity of acne vulgaris. A significant decrease in serum catestatin levels was detected after 24 weeks of systemic isotretinoin treatment. Conclusion: Catestatin was found to be significantly higher in the serum of patients with acne vulgaris compared to the control group. Although, the demonstration that catestatin levels decrease with isotretinoin treatment may indicate that it may have an important role in the pathogenesis of acne and could be used as a biomarker, future studies are needed to establish the role of catestatin in the pathogenesis of acne vulgaris.
Characteristics of Retinal Vascular Degeneration and the Expression of Vessel-Related Claudin Proteins in Retinal Degeneration Mouse
Authors: Wang Aoxiang , Zhou Jinxi , Hong Yiwen , Cui Yamei , Wang Yishen , Pan Jianying , Wu Yue , Luo Yan
Published: June 2024

Introduction: This study aimed to investigate the characteristics of retinal vascular degeneration and the expression of vessel-related Claudin (CLD) proteins in retinal degeneration mouse ( Pde6βrd1/rd1 rd1 mouse).
Methods: Retinas from wild-type (WT) mice and rd1 mice at postnatal day 3 (P3), P5, P8, P11, P13, P15, P18, and P21 were collected. Immunofluorescence staining was used to assess the retinal vascular plexus, cell proliferation, CLD expression, and retinal ganglion cells (RGCs). The distribution of retinal superficial and deep vessels was determined by Isolectin B4 fluorescence staining of retinal flat mounts and frozen sections. Hematoxylin and eosin staining and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dNTP nick end labeling were used to investigate retinal histological degeneration and apoptosis in rd1 mice respectively. Quantitative real-time PCR and western blot were used to measure the expression of vessel-related CLD-1, 2, 3 and CLD-5, vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA), and vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (VEGFR2) in the retinas.
Results: Compared to the WT mice, the rd1 mice displayed delayed but completed progressive development in the retinal superficial vascular plexuses (SVP) and deep vascular plexuses (DVP). In the rd1 mice, the thickness of retinal layers gradually decreased and the retinas underwent progressive atrophy and degeneration. The deterioration got worse at the late developmental stage. The declined vessel density of SVP and DVP correlated with the decreased thickness of the full and inner parts of the retina and the reduced number of RGCs. DVP degeneration and the thinning of the outer nuclear layer occurred an obvious reduction at P15. The expression levels of CLD-1, CLD-2, CLD-3, CLD-5, VEGFA, and VEGFR2 decreased and were consistently lower in the rd1 mice than in WT mice since P15.
Conclusion: Rd1 mice exhibited progressive vascular degeneration of retinal SVP and DVP, the thinning and atrophy of retinal ONL and RGC, and the downregulation of vessel-related CLD proteins during the late developmental period. Thus, the rd1 mouse is a useful model of not only retinal neuro-degeneration but also retinal vascular degeneration.
The Typical Nail Lichen Planus Severity Index: An Outcome Instrument for Typical Nail Lichen Planus
Authors: He Juan , Weng Tengyu , Zhang Wei , Li Anqi , Meng Xianfu , Zhu Wenwei , Bai Jia , Hao Yonghong , Yang Yi , Li Chengxin
Published: June 2024

Introduction: Despite numerous treatment options for nail lichen planus (NLP), a validated method for measuring the severity of NLP and therapeutic response in clinical trials is absent. The aim of the study was to develop and validate a measurement instrument, Typical Nail Lichen Planus Severity Index (tNLPSI), for typical NLP that could be used in clinical trials. Methods: A total of 48 patients pathologically confirmed with typical NLP were enrolled in this study. Five dermatologists were trained to use the tNLPSI activity scale and the Physician’s Global Assessment (PGA) scale to score samples independently to estimate inter-rater and intra-rater reliability across two sessions. In addition, tNLPSI activity scores were compared with PGA scores to assess the construct validity. Results: The tNLPSI activity scale had excellent internal consistency and inter-rater reliability (Cronbach’s alpha 0.990; ICC = 0.954; 95% CI = 0.930–0.971), and the correlations between the different graders’ scores indicate good consistency (rp = 0.934–0.968). In addition, the tNLPSI activity scale demonstrated high intra-rater reliability (ICC = 0.996; 95% CI = 0.993–0.998), showing good reproducibility. And tNLPSI activity scores and PGA scores showed good construct validity (Spearman’s rho = 0.941 and Spearman’s rho = 0.903–0.935, respectively; p < 0.01). Conclusion: The tNLPSI activity scale was demonstrated to be consistent, reliable, reproducible, and feasible, making it a potential valuable tool for evaluating the treatment response in typical NLP clinical trials.