bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Targeted PLK1 suppression through RNA interference mediated by high‐fidelity Cas13d mitigates osteosarcoma progression via TGF‐β/Smad3 signalling
Authors: Yuan Yi , Cao Daigui , Zhang Anwei , Liu Zhiwei , Deng Zhongliang , Zhang Shengli
Published: May 2024

Osteosarcoma is the most common primary bone malignancy in children and adolescents. Overexpression of polo‐like kinase 1 (PLK1) is frequent in osteosarcoma and drives disease progression and metastasis, making it a promising therapeutic target. In this study, we explored PLK1 knockdown in osteosarcoma cells using RNA interference mediated by high‐fidelity Cas13d (hfCas13d). PLK1 was found to be significantly upregulated in osteosarcoma tumour tissues compared to normal bone. sgRNA‐mediated PLK1 suppression via hfCas13d transfection inhibited osteosarcoma cell proliferation, induced G2/M cell cycle arrest, promoted apoptosis, reduced cell invasion and increased expression of the epithelial marker E‐cadherin. Proximity labelling by TurboID coupled with co‐immunoprecipitation identified novel PLK1 interactions with Smad3, a key intracellular transducer of TGF‐β signalling. PLK1 knockdown impaired Smad2/3 phosphorylation and modulated TGF‐β/Smad3 pathway inactivation. Finally, in vivo delivery of hfCas13d vectors targeting PLK1 substantially attenuated osteosarcoma xenograft growth in nude mice. Taken together, this study highlights PLK1 as a potential therapeutic target and driver of disease progression in osteosarcoma. It also demonstrates the utility of hfCas13d‐mediated gene knockdown as a strategy for targeted therapy. Further optimization of PLK1 suppression approaches may ultimately improve clinical outcomes for osteosarcoma patients.
The role of interleukin‐36 in health and disease states
Authors: Sugiura Kazumitsu , Fujita Hideki , Komine Mayumi , Yamanaka Keiichi , Akiyama Masashi
Published: May 2024

The interleukin (IL)‐1 superfamily upregulates immune responses and maintains homeostasis between the innate and adaptive immune systems. Within the IL‐1 superfamily, IL‐36 plays a pivotal role in both innate and adaptive immune responses. Of the four IL‐36 isoforms, three have agonist activity (IL‐36α, IL‐36β, IL‐36γ) and the fourth has antagonist activity (IL‐36 receptor antagonist [IL‐36Ra]). All IL‐36 isoforms bind to the IL‐36 receptor (IL‐36R). Binding of IL‐36α/β/γ to the IL‐36R recruits the IL‐1 receptor accessory protein (IL‐1RAcP) and activates downstream signalling pathways mediated by nuclear transcription factor kappa B and mitogen‐activated protein kinase signalling pathways. Antagonist binding of IL‐36Ra to IL‐36R inhibits recruitment of IL‐1RAcP, blocking downstream signalling pathways. Changes in the balance within the IL‐36 cytokine family can lead to uncontrolled inflammatory responses throughout the body. As such, IL‐36 has been implicated in numerous inflammatory diseases, notably a type of pustular psoriasis called generalized pustular psoriasis (GPP), a chronic, rare, potentially life‐threatening, multisystemic skin disease characterised by recurrent fever and extensive sterile pustules. In GPP, IL‐36 is central to disease pathogenesis, and the prevention of IL‐36‐mediated signalling can improve clinical outcomes. In this review, we summarize the literature describing the biological functions of the IL‐36 pathway. We also consider the evidence for uncontrolled activation of the IL‐36 pathway in a wide range of skin (e.g., plaque psoriasis, pustular psoriasis, hidradenitis suppurativa, acne, Netherton syndrome, atopic dermatitis and pyoderma gangrenosum), lung (e.g., idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis), gut (e.g., intestinal fibrosis, inflammatory bowel disease and Hirschsprung's disease), kidney (e.g., renal tubulointerstitial lesions) and infectious diseases caused by a variety of pathogens (e.g., COVID‐19; Mycobacterium tuberculosis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Streptococcus pneumoniae infections), as well as in cancer. We also consider how targeting the IL‐36 signalling pathway could be used in treating inflammatory disease states.
An exploration of the experiences and attitudes of healthcare professionals towards enteral tube feeding for adults living in the community following stroke
Authors: Eleftheriadis Konstantinos , Madden Angela M.
Published: May 2024

Background

Guidelines recommend enteral feeding via gastrostomy should be considered for adult survivors of stroke with dysphagia who cannot eat or drink sufficiently for >4 weeks. Many people continue long‐term tube‐feeding via this route in the community where healthcare professionals contribute to their care and nutritional management, although little is known about their experiences of or attitudes towards enteral feeding in this situation. The present study aimed to explore the experiences and attitudes of healthcare professionals working with this patient group.

Methods

Healthcare professionals were invited to complete a questionnaire devised for the study which comprised closed and open questions about tube‐feeding including their patients' participation in feeding processes and mealtimes and how these might be improved. Responses to closed questions were analysed descriptively and free‐text responses analysed using thematic analysis.

Results

Fifty‐seven participants met the inclusion criteria. They identified patients' quality of life (77% of respondents) and nutritional support (75%) as the most important aspects of tube‐feeding. Good communication and training with healthcare teams and carers were considered important. Their patients' participation in tube‐feed administration and mealtime involvement were described as variable and potentially beneficial, but both were related to patients' choice and health impairment. Blended tube‐feeding was considered an option by 89% provided practical and safety conditions were met.

Conclusions

Participants' experiences of and attitudes towards tube feeding in adults living with stroke in the community in the sample in the present study are varied and focussed on individual patients' needs, safety and professional standards.
Structural adjustment, economic performance, and electoral volatility in presidential elections in Latin America
Authors: Tuman John P. , Kuenzi Michelle , Erlingsson Hafthor B.
Published: May 2024

Drawing upon the Latin American Presidential and Legislative Elections database and our own original data set, we assess the effects of structural adjustment and other economic factors on presidential electoral volatility in 24 Latin American countries in 1982–2016. The results of our study indicate that both structural adjustment and inflation have a positive association with Type B presidential electoral volatility (the volatility generated from changes in the vote shares of established parties). Economic growth appears to have only a weak negative association with overall presidential electoral volatility. Type A presidential electoral volatility (the volatility associated with the rise of new parties) is mostly determined by demographic factors and the electoral system for the presidency. As with legislative volatility in Latin America, Africa, and postcommunist Europe, explaining stable party presidential volatility appears more challenging than explaining party replacement presidential volatility. Overall, several of the findings about legislative volatility are echoed in this study, but presidential electoral volatility is notably higher than legislative volatility in Latin America.
Gender inequalities during a global pandemic: The link between female solo self‐employment, informality, caregiving responsibilities, and quality of life 1 year after the Covid‐19 pandemic
Authors: Correa María Alejandra Inostroza , Velásquez Jorge Sepúlveda
Published: May 2024

The purpose of this study is to see if informal, solo self‐employed women in Chile had a greater drop in their quality of life than their formal counterparts during the first year of the Covid‐19 pandemic. The article investigates the correlation between different types of employment arrangements (informal solo self‐employment and formal solo self‐employment) and the well‐being of these women during the pandemic. The instrument employed is the COV19‐Impact on Quality of Life questionnaire, consisting of six items presented in a 5‐point Likert scale format. The survey was conducted online as a self‐administered questionnaire to 854 female solo self‐employed participants, ranging in age from 19 to 75 years, who had received support from a social aid foundation in December 2020 and early 2021. The main finding suggests there is a correlation between the type of solo self‐employment and the quality of life experienced by women during the pandemic. Specifically, women engaged in informal solo self‐employment encountered a substantial decline in their quality of life over the initial year of the pandemic, reflecting a decrease of 14.97 points on the Quality of Life scale, in contrast to their formal counterparts. In conclusion, there is a strong correlation between the quality of life experienced during the pandemic and employment status. Even though employment arrangements were utilized as proxies for socioeconomic factors not directly assessed in the questionnaire, this tool proved invaluable in capturing diverse facets of socioeconomic conditions, encompassing income levels, access to governmental support, social protection, and working conditions.
Amartya Sen's social justice
Authors: Duran Jane
Published: May 2024

This paper uses lines of argument drawn from Amartya Sen's Idea of Justice to support the notion that NGO efforts, far from being oppressive, are helpful and progressive. It cites the work of Lairap‐Fonderson and Chen, and alludes to specific projects. Contrast is made with Rawls, and the paper suggests that more formal theories of justice may not enable us to grapple with our intuitive sense that justice for the poverty stricken involves, at a minimum, both financial progress and forward movement with respect to internal growth. Examples of work done by NGOs in Bangladesh and other places help us to realize that women in these areas often have their own sense of what a more just situation would require—and NGOs and others can work from these conceptions as a point of departure. Part of the conclusion here is that Sen's concept of the just is a step in the right direction.
Inference and identity
Authors: Unnsteinsson Elmar
Published: May 2024

I argue that beliefs about the identity or distinctness of objects are necessary to explain some normal inferential transitions between thoughts in humans. Worries about vicious regress are not powerful enough to dismantle such an argument. As an upshot, the idea that thinkers “trade on” identity without any corresponding belief remains somewhat mysterious.
Elucidation of the role of microglia‐macrophage‐based neuroinflammation in neurological diseases
Authors: Yamasaki Ryo
Published: May 2024

Objective

To elucidate the roles of microglia and macrophages in neuroinflammation and their dual impact on the progression of neurological diseases.

Background

Microglia and macrophages are integral components of the central and peripheral nervous systems, where they play important roles in maintaining homeostasis, influencing disease progression, and facilitating repair mechanisms.

Methods

The review integrates recent advancements in single‐cell RNA sequencing that highlight the extensive heterogeneity of microglia and macrophages, which helps in understanding their wide‐ranging roles in different neurological conditions.

Results

The analysis reveals that microglia and macrophages have a dual nature, capable of both exacerbating and mitigating disease processes across various conditions, including Alzheimer’s disease, multiple sclerosis, stroke, peripheral nerve disorders, and brain tumors.

Conclusion

Modulating the activity of microglia and macrophages offers a promising avenue for therapeutic interventions in neurological disorders. There is a critical need for further research to fully leverage their therapeutic potential in targeting neuroinflammation to enhance patient outcomes.
Defining the target population of environments for wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) breeding in Italy based on historical data
Authors: Vitale Paolo , Crossa José , Vaccino Patrizia , De Vita Pasquale
Published: May 2024

Grain yield plateau is a serious concern in many countries, including Italy. A specific‐adaptative strategy might apply to contrast this unfavourable condition. This study aimed to investigate the gain in grain yield and yield‐related traits of bread wheat in Italy over a 16‐year period. A historical dataset concerning 105 sites across Italy and observations on grain yield, heading date, plant height and thousand kernel weight was used. The target population of environments (TPEs) were defined using several environmental parameters. The results showed that while there was a general increase in thousand kernel weight over the 16 years, there was no significant improvement in grain yield and heading date. By contrast, plant height showed a slight decrease over the years. The study also identified five TPEs presenting different climate scenarios in Italy. The TPEs showed varying levels of performance for the traits of interest, with the Po valley (TPE4) showing the highest values for grain yield and thousand kernel weight. The study also identified the best‐performing genotypes for each TPE, providing valuable insights for future wheat breeding programmes in Italy.
Kidney transplantation in patients with tuberous sclerosis complex
Authors: Goedken Amber M. , Ismail Wesam W. , Barrett Lucas D. G. , Harshman Lyndsay A.
Published: May 2024

Background

Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) is a disorder of the mammalian target of the rapamycin (mTOR) pathway associated with the development of multisystem tumors, including renal angiomyolipoma (AML). These renal tumors are benign by nature but locally invasive and carry a risk for the progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD) to end stage kidney disease (ESKD). The frequency of subsequent renal transplantation in this population is largely uncharacterized, although single‐center data suggests that 5%–15% of adult TSC patients are kidney transplant recipients.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study utilized United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) data. We included candidates waitlisted between 1987 and 2020 for a first kidney transplant with TSC‐associated kidney failure. We utilized descriptive statistics to characterize the frequency of first‐time kidney transplant waitlisting and transplantation among persons with TSC and the Fine‐Gray subdistribution hazard model to evaluate characteristics associated with progression from waitlist.

Results

We identified 200 TSC‐associated kidney failure patients within the waitlist cohort. Of these, 12 were pediatric patients. Two‐thirds (N = 134) of waitlisted persons were female. One hundred forty patients received a transplant with a median waitlist time of 2 years. Younger age at waitlisting was associated with a greater probability of progressing to transplant (HR 0.98 [95% CI: 0.96–0.99]). 91.8% of kidney transplant recipients survived 1‐year post‐transplant with a functioning allograft.

Conclusions

The majority of patients with TSC who are waitlisted for a kidney transplant progress onto transplantation with excellent 1‐year post transplant patient and allograft survival.
Comparison of cystatin C‐based estimated glomerular filtration rate with measured glomerular filtration rate in a pediatric cohort of patients with chronic kidney disease
Authors: Lindvig Tilde Ostendorf , Simonsen Jane Angel , Gerke Oke , Thiesson Helle Charlotte
Published: May 2024

Background

It is essential to have an accurate assessment of the renal function of patients with chronic kidney disease to monitor, treat, and predict further development of the condition. Measurement of renal function in terms of glomerular filtration rate (GFR) requires either urine or blood sampling, but especially in children, more simple methods of measurement are preferable. The main objective of this study was to examine if the estimated GFR (eGFR) calculated with different cystatin‐C‐based equations was comparable to the GFR measured by a radiotracer (mGFR) in pediatric patients.

Methods

In this retrospective study, 28 pediatric patients contributed with 73 pairs of measurements collected within 5 years. Bland–Altman Limits of Agreement were used to evaluate the performance and accuracy of two different cystatin‐C‐based estimates, the CKiDCrea‐CysC and the CKiDU25 respectively, compared to an mGFR based on plasma clearance of technetium‐99m‐diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid or chromium‐51‐ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid.

Results

Using the CKiDCrea‐CysC equation, 58.9% of the datasets were within P10 and 87.7% were within P30. The mean difference was 4.8 mL/min/1.73m2 (standard deviation: 8.5 mL/min/1.73m2) and tended to overestimate GFR and thereby overrate the kidney function within the entire GFR range. Using the CKiDU25 equation, 53.4% were within P10 and 93.2% within P30. The mean difference was −2.9 mL/min/1.73m2 (standard deviation: 8.4 mL/min/1.73m2), but the difference varied with the GFR value.

Conclusions

A cystatin‐C‐based eGFR provides a viable substitute for monitoring renal function in pediatric patients with chronic kidney disease. However, it has a lower accuracy than mGFR and can therefore not replace mGFR in clinical use.
Embedding technology at the grassroots: Strategies for localising technology transfer under the UNFCCC technology mechanism
Authors: Owens Katherine , James Hannah
Published: May 2024

Technology transfer to the Global South involves not only technical solutions, but also ‘localising’ or adapting those solutions to place through multiparty learning and problem solving. The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and its Technology Mechanism have largely overlooked the importance of localisation and have created a governance environment that neither reflects the ‘messiness’ of this process, nor the need for flexibility and long‐term collaboration for effective search and discovery, implementation and knowledge creation. This article focuses on the Climate Technology Centre and Network (CTCN), the Technology Mechanism's implementation arm, and the challenges it faces in orchestrating the transfer of technology to the Global South. Drawing on recent empirical research and theories of innovation and experimentalism, the article examines how the CTCN and its associated institutions could be governed in ways that better enable localisation. It argues that successful transfer is more likely to be facilitated through systemic linkages between the CTCN and associated technology processes such as Technology Needs Assessments, and by creating more active processes of technological search, learning, peer review and knowledge exchange.
Perceptual Clauses as Units of Production in Visual Descriptions
Authors: Ferreira Fernanda , Barker Madison
Published: May 2024

Describing our visual environments is challenging because although an enormous amount of information is simultaneously available to the visual system, the language channel must impose a linear order on that information. Moreover, the production system is at least moderately incremental, meaning that it interleaves planning and speaking processes. Here, we address how the operations of these two cognitive systems are coordinated given their different characteristics. We propose the concept of aperceptual clause, defined as an interface representation that allows the visual and linguistic systems to exchange information. The perceptual clause serves as the input to the language formulator, which translates the representation into a linguistic sequence. Perceptual clauses capture speakers’ ability to describe visual scenes coherently while at the same time taking advantage of the incremental abilities of the language production system.
Neutral interactions between native Alternanthera sessilis and exotic Alternanthera philoxeroides along a light gradient under tropical climatic conditions
Authors: Kankanamge Champika Ellawala , Sujaw M. N. Nusky
Published: May 2024

Riparian ecosystems are under a serious threat of invasion due to the clearance of riparian vegetation, which allows for increased light levels at ground level. This study presents the interactions between native Alternanthera sessilis (L.) R. Br. ex DC and invasive Alternanthera philoxeroides (Mart.) Griseb. during the colonization stage along a light gradient under tropical climate conditions. We conducted a 6 week growth experiment with monocultures of A. philoxeroides and A.sessilis and mixed communities of two species under four light levels (100%, 46%, 26% and 14% of full sunlight). Exposure to full sunlight (nearly 1800 μmol m−2 s−1) resulted in a significantly high biomass accrual in both species. However, biomass accrual did not correlate with the light intensity. At higher shade levels, reduction of lateral spread and shoot/root ratio was observed. Community composition had no influence on biomass accrual or morphological variations. Plasticity index values were approximately same in both species. Total relative yield was approximately two in all shade conditions, indicating that the two species interact neutrally along the light gradient. Therefore, the results of the study indicate that increased light levels will accelerate the proliferation of both species in riparian zones. Nevertheless, increased or decreased shade is unlikely to alter neutral interactions between A. philoxeroides and A. sessilis.
Stabilization distance bounds from link Floer homology
Authors: Juhász András , Zemke Ian
Published: May 2024

We consider the set of connected surfaces in the 4‐ball with boundary a fixed knot in the 3‐sphere. We define the stabilization distance between two surfaces as the minimal such that we can get from one to the other using stabilizations and destabilizations through surfaces of genus at most . Similarly, we consider a double‐point distance between two surfaces of the same genus that is the minimum over all regular homotopies connecting the two surfaces of the maximal number of double points appearing in the homotopy. To many of the concordance invariants defined using Heegaard Floer homology, we construct an analogous invariant for a pair of surfaces. We show that these give lower bounds on the stabilization distance and the double‐point distance. We compute our invariants for some pairs of deform‐spun slice disks by proving a trace formula on the full infinity knot Floer complex, and by determining the action on knot Floer homology of an automorphism of the connected sum of a knot with itself that swaps the two summands. We use our invariants to find pairs of slice disks with arbitrarily large distance with respect to many of the metrics we consider in this paper. We also answer a slice‐disk analog of Problem 1.105 (B) from Kirby's problem list by showing the existence of non‐0‐cobordant slice disks.
Symposium review: high altitude travel with pulmonary vascular disease
Authors: Titz Anna , Schneider Simon , Mueller Julian , Mayer Laura , Lichtblau Mona , Ulrich Silvia
Published: May 2024

Pulmonary arterial hypertension and chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension are the main precapillary forms of pulmonary hypertension (PH) summarized as pulmonary vascular diseases (PVD). PVDs are characterized by exertional dyspnoea and oxygen desaturation, and reduced quality of life and survival. Medical therapies improve life expectancy and physical performance of PVD patients, of whom many wish to participate in professional work and recreational activities including traveling to high altitude. The exposure to the hypobaric hypoxic environment of mountain regions incurs the risk of high altitude adverse events (AEHA) due to severe hypoxaemia exacerbating symptoms and further increase in pulmonary artery pressure, which may lead to right heart decompensation. Recent prospective and randomized trials show that altitude‐induced hypoxaemia, pulmonary haemodynamic changes and impairment of exercise performance in PVD patients are in the range found in healthy people. The vast majority of optimally treated stable PVD patients who do not require long‐term oxygen therapy at low altitude can tolerate short‐term exposure to moderate altitudes up to 2500 m. PVD patients that reveal persistent severe resting hypoxaemia ( <80% for >30 min) at 2500 m respond well to supplemental oxygen therapy. Although there are no accurate predictors for AEHA, PVD patients with unfavourable risk profiles at low altitude, such as higher WHO functional class, lower exercise capacity with more pronounced exercise‐induced desaturation and more severely impaired haemodynamics, are at increased risk of AEHA. Therefore, doctors with experience in PVD and high‐altitude medicine should counsel PVD patients before any high‐altitude sojourn. This review aims to summarize recent literature and clinical recommendations about PVD patients travelling to high altitude.

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Transculturación e identidad cultural cubana: el eslabón perdido en Monkey Hunting de Cristina García y La isla de los amores infinitos de Daína Chaviano
Authors: Villoria Nolla Maite
Published: May 2024

A pesar de que la hibridez se encuentra en la esencia de la cubanidad, los discursos que construyen la identidad cubana han marginalizado e incluso excluido el componente asiático, perpetuando la visión de orientalismo de Said. Sin embargo, distintos trabajos literarios ocuparían el lugar del discurso para (re)pensar esa posición, basándose en la integración y la inclusión de ese componente previamente exotizado. En este artículo se examina si las obras literarias de Cristina García, Monkey Hunting (2003), y de Daína Chaviano, La isla de los amores infinitos (2006), permiten descubrir esa nueva perspectiva para la construcción de la cubanidad, analizando si la presencia del componente asiático forma parte integral del discurso, explorando su proceso de exilio y de aculturación.
Realization of robust quantum noise characterization in the presence of coherent errors
Authors: Penshin P. , Amro T. , Zabelotsky T. , Abramovich A. , Pandit T. , Ben'Attar K. I. O. , Hen A. , Uzdin R. , Bar-Gill N.
Published: May 2024

Complex quantum systems and their various applications are susceptible to noise of coherent and incoherent nature. Characterization of noise and its sources is an open, key challenge in quantum technology applications, especially in terms of distinguishing between inherent incoherent noise and systematic coherent errors. In this paper, we study a scheme of repeated sequential measurements that enables the characterization of incoherent errors by reducing the effects of coherent errors. We demonstrate this approach using a coherently controlled nitrogen vacancy in diamond, coupled to both a natural nuclear spin bath (non-Markovian) and to experimentally controlled relaxation through an optical pumping process (nearly Markovian). Our results show mitigation of coherent errors both for Markovian and non-Markovian incoherent noise profiles. We apply this scheme to the estimation of the dephasing time (T2*) due to incoherent noise. We observe an improved robustness against coherent errors in the estimation of dephasing time (T2*) compared to the standard (Ramsey) measurement.
Effect of rare earth element Y content on microstructure, magnetic properties, and electrochemical properties of the as-annealed FeCoNiAl0.2Yx high-entropy alloys
Authors: Cui Shaojie , Lei Sheng , Li Yun , Zhang Junpeng , Hu Shanshan , Xue Zhengwei
Published: May 2024

FeCoNi high-entropy alloy (HEA) is widely used in the aerospace and chemical industry. However, the strength and corrosion resistance of the alloy still need to be improved. In this paper, FeCoNiAl0.2Yx (x = 0, 0.05, 0.1, 0.2, and 0.3 in mole ratio) high entropy alloys with different contents of rare earth (RE) element yttrium (Y) were prepared by the vacuum arc melting method, and then the alloys were subjected to annealing treatment at 800 °C/2h. The microstructure, hardness, magnetism, and corrosion performance of FeCoNiAl0.2Yx HEAs in the annealed state with different contents of element Y were analyzed. The results show that the annealed FeCoNiAl0.2Yx HEAs without the addition of element Y and after the addition of element Y both were composed of a face-centered cubic phase. The alloy showed a dendritic structure inside. The element Y was solidly dissolved in the alloys to refine the microstructure of the alloys, and the dendrites were gradually refined with the addition of Y. The Y element caused the phenomenon of lattice distortion inside the alloys, which led to the increase in the alloys’ hardness. The alloy with x = 0.2 showed the greatest exchange of magnetic atoms and the alloy with x = 0.05 showed the lowest coercivity. The alloy with x = 0.1 showed the lowest self-corrosion current density, the broadest passivation zone, the densest dendrites, the smallest grain spacing, and the weakest tendency for intergranular corrosion. The present study shows that the introduction of element Y improves the microstructural morphology, hardness, magnetism, and corrosion properties of FeCoNiAl0.2Yx HEAs in the annealed state.
Quantum versus classical quenches and the broadening of wave packets
Authors: Schönhammer K.
Published: May 2024

The time dependence of one-dimensional quantum mechanical probability densities is presented when the potential in which a particle moves is suddenly changed, called a quench. Quantum quenches are mainly addressed, but a comparison with results for the dynamics in the framework of classical statistical mechanics is useful. Analytical results are presented when the initial and final potentials are harmonic oscillators. When the final potential vanishes, the problem reduces to the broadening of wave packets. A simple introduction to the concept of the Wigner function is presented, which allows a better understanding of the dynamics of general wave packets. It is pointed out how special the broadening of Gaussian wave packets is, the only example usually presented in quantum mechanics textbooks.
Relegated to the Sidelines: A Qualitative Inquiry of Gatekeepers’ Perspectives and Values of Physical Education for Disabled Children
Authors: McNamara Scott W.T. , Craig Patrica , Henly Megan , Gravink Jill
Published: May 2024

Several institutional aspects within the U.S. public school system impede the delivery of adapted physical education (APE) services to disabled children, including a lack of understanding and prioritization of these services by the special education team and a lack of qualified APE professionals to deliver these services. Thus, we conducted a qualitative inquiry grounded in a critical-ableism perspective to explore special education gatekeepers’ experiences and perspectives of APE. Gatekeepers included parents, physical educators, and school administrators. Using a reflexive thematic analysis, we developed four interrelated themes: (a) disregard, negative, and charity mindsets toward disability; (b) systemic challenges in valuing and prioritizing APE; (c) presence as inclusion: (un)intentional marginalization in physical education; and (d) physical education for my child was a nightmare. These findings illustrate the complexities around the provision of physical education and APE to disabled children.
Direct interaction between marine cyanobacteria mediated by nanotubes
Authors: Angulo-Cánovas Elisa , Bartual Ana , López-Igual Rocío , Luque Ignacio , Radzinski Nikolai P. , Shilova Irina , Anjur-Dietrich Maya , García-Jurado Gema , Úbeda Bárbara , González-Reyes José Antonio , Díez Jesús , Chisholm Sallie W. , García-Fernández José Manuel , del Carmen Muñoz-Marín María
Published: May 2024

Microbial associations and interactions drive and regulate nutrient fluxes in the ocean. However, physical contact between cells of marine cyanobacteria has not been studied thus far. Here, we show a mechanism of direct interaction between the marine cyanobacteria
Prochlorococcus
and
Synechococcus
, the intercellular membrane nanotubes. We present evidence of inter- and intra-genus exchange of cytoplasmic material between neighboring and distant cells of cyanobacteria mediated by nanotubes. We visualized and measured these structures in xenic and axenic cultures and in natural samples. We show that nanotubes are produced between living cells, suggesting that this is a relevant system of exchange material in vivo. The discovery of nanotubes acting as exchange bridges in the most abundant photosynthetic organisms in the ocean may have important implications for their interactions with other organisms and their population dynamics.
Tibetan terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems collapsed with cryosphere loss inferred from sedimentary ancient metagenomics
Authors: Liu Sisi , Stoof-Leichsenring Kathleen R. , Harms Lars , Schulte Luise , Mischke Steffen , Kruse Stefan , Zhang Chengjun , Herzschuh Ulrike
Published: May 2024

Glacier and permafrost shrinkage and land-use intensification threaten mountain wildlife and affect nature conservation strategies. Here, we present paleometagenomic records of terrestrial and aquatic taxa from the southeastern Tibetan Plateau covering the last 18,000 years to help understand the complex alpine ecosystem dynamics. We infer that steppe-meadow became woodland at 14 ka (cal BP) controlled by cryosphere loss, further driving a herbivore change from wild yak to deer. These findings weaken the hypothesis of top-down control by large herbivores in the terrestrial ecosystem. We find a turnover in the aquatic communities at 14 ka, transitioning from glacier-related (blue-green) algae to abundant nonglacier-preferring picocyanobacteria, macrophytes, fish, and otters. There is no evidence for substantial effects of livestock herding in either ecosystem. Using network analysis, we assess the stress-gradient hypothesis and reveal that root hemiparasitic and cushion plants are keystone taxa. With ongoing cryosphere loss, the protection of their habitats is likely to be of conservation benefit on the Tibetan Plateau.
i
PP/HDPE blends compatibilized by a polyester: An unconventional concept to valuable products
Authors: Kruszynski Jakub , Nowicka Weronika , Rozanski Artur , Liu Yingxin , Parisi Daniele , Yang Lanti , Pasha Farhan Ahmad , Bouyahyi Miloud , Jasinska-Walc Lidia , Duchateau Rob
Published: May 2024

Polyolefins are the most widely used plastics accounting for a large fraction of the polymer waste stream. Although reusing polyolefins seems to be a logical choice, their recycling level remains disappointingly low. This is mainly due to the lack of large-scale availability of efficient and inexpensive compatibilizers for mixed polyolefin waste, typically consisting of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and isotactic polypropylene (
i
PP) that, despite their similar chemical hydrocarbon structure, are immiscible. Here, we describe an unconventional approach of using polypentadecalactone, a straightforward and simple-to-produce aliphatic polyester, as a compatibilizer for
i
PP/HDPE blends, especially the brittle
i
PP-rich ones. The unexpectedly effective compatibilizer transforms brittle
i
PP/HDPE blends into unexpectedly tough materials that even outperform the reference HDPE and
i
PP materials. This simple approach creates opportunities for upcycling polymer waste into valuable products.
Unlocking interfaces in photovoltaics
Authors: Xiao Yun , Yang Xiaoyu , Zhu Rui , Snaith Henry J.
Published: May 2024

Eliminating defects at interfaces enables perovskites to approach efficiency limits
Demixing is a default process for biological condensates formed via phase separation
Authors: Zhu Shihan , Shen Zeyu , Wu Xiandeng , Han Wenyan , Jia Bowen , Lu Wei , Zhang Mingjie
Published: May 2024

Excitatory and inhibitory synapses do not overlap even when formed on one submicron-sized dendritic protrusion. How excitatory and inhibitory postsynaptic cytomatrices or densities (e/iPSDs) are segregated is not understood. Broadly, why membraneless organelles are naturally segregated in cellular subcompartments is unclear. Using biochemical reconstitutions in vitro and in cells, we demonstrate that ePSDs and iPSDs spontaneously segregate into distinct condensed molecular assemblies through phase separation. Tagging iPSD scaffold gephyrin with a PSD-95 intrabody (dissociation constant ~4 nM) leads to mistargeting of gephyrin to ePSD condensates. Unexpectedly, formation of iPSD condensates forces the intrabody-tagged gephyrin out of ePSD condensates. Thus, instead of diffusion-governed spontaneous mixing, demixing is a default process for biomolecules in condensates. Phase separation can generate biomolecular compartmentalization specificities that cannot occur in dilute solutions.
Synthesis and characterization of low-dimensional N-heterocyclic carbene lattices
Authors: Qie Boyu , Wang Ziyi , Jiang Jingwei , Zhang Zisheng , Jacobse Peter H. , Lu Jiaming , Li Xinheng , Liu Fujia , Alexandrova Anastassia N. , Louie Steven G. , Crommie Michael F. , Fischer Felix R.
Published: May 2024

The covalent interaction of N-heterocyclic carbenes (NHCs) with transition metal atoms gives rise to distinctive frontier molecular orbitals (FMOs). These emergent electronic states have spurred the widespread adoption of NHC ligands in chemical catalysis and functional materials. Although formation of carbene-metal complexes in self-assembled monolayers on surfaces has been explored, design and electronic structure characterization of extended low-dimensional NHC-metal lattices remains elusive. Here we demonstrate a modular approach to engineering one-dimensional (1D) metal-organic chains and two-dimensional (2D) Kagome lattices using the FMOs of NHC–Au–NHC junctions to create low-dimensional molecular networks exhibiting intrinsic metallicity. Scanning tunneling spectroscopy and first-principles density functional theory reveal the contribution of C–Au–C π-bonding states to dispersive bands that imbue 1D- and 2D-NHC lattices with exceptionally small work functions.
Multistage maturation optimizes vision
Authors: Mamassian Pascal
Published: May 2024

Late development of color vision improves object recognition
Core genome multilocus sequence typing (cgMLST) applicable to the monophyletic
Klebsiella oxytoca
species complex
Authors: Dabernig-Heinz Johanna , Wagner Gabriel E. , Prior Karola , Lipp Michaela , Kienesberger Sabine , Ruppitsch Werner , Rønning Torunn G. , Harmsen Dag , Steinmetz Ivo , Leitner Eva
Published: May 2024

The environmental bacterium
Klebsiella oxytoca
displays an alarming increase of antibiotic-resistant strains that frequently cause outbreaks in intensive care units. Due to its prevalence in the environment and opportunistic presence in humans, molecular surveillance (including resistance marker screening) and high-resolution cluster analysis are of high relevance. Furthermore,
K. oxytoca
previously described in studies is rather a species complex (KoSC) than a single species comprising at least six closely related species that are not easily differentiated by standard typing methods. To reach a discriminatory power high enough to identify and resolve clusters within these species, whole genome sequencing is necessary. The resolution is achievable with core genome multilocus sequence typing (cgMLST) extending typing of a few housekeeping genes to thousands of core genome genes. CgMLST is highly standardized and provides a nomenclature enabling cross laboratory reproducibility and data exchange for routine diagnostics. Here, we established a cgMLST scheme not only capable of resolving the KoSC species but also producing reliable and consistent results for published outbreaks. Our cgMLST scheme consists of 2,536 core genome and 2,693 accessory genome targets, with a percentage of good cgMLST targets of 98.31% in 880 KoSC genomes downloaded from the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). We also validated resistance markers against known resistance gene patterns and successfully linked genetic results to phenotypically confirmed toxic strains carrying the
til
gene cluster. In conclusion, our novel cgMLST enables highly reproducible typing of four different clinically relevant species of the KoSC and thus facilitates molecular surveillance and cluster investigations.
Indiscriminate activities of different henipavirus polymerase complex proteins allow for efficient minigenome replication in hybrid systems
Authors: Li Xiao , Yang Yanling , López Carolina B.
Published: May 2024

The henipaviruses, including Nipah virus (NiV) and Hendra virus (HeV), are biosafety level 4 (BSL-4) zoonotic pathogens that cause severe neurological and respiratory disease in humans. To study the replication machinery of these viruses, we developed robust minigenome systems that can be safely used in BSL-2 conditions. The nucleocapsid (N), phosphoprotein (P), and large protein (L) of henipaviruses are critical elements of their replication machinery and thus essential support components of the minigenome systems. Here, we tested the effects of diverse combinations of the replication support proteins on the replication capacity of the NiV and HeV minigenomes by exchanging the helper plasmids coding for these proteins among the two viruses. We demonstrate that all combinations including one or more heterologous proteins were capable of replicating both the NiV and HeV minigenomes. Sequence alignment showed identities of 92% for the N protein, 67% for P, and 87% for L. Notably, variations in amino acid residues were not concentrated in the N-P and P-L interacting regions implying that dissimilarities in amino acid composition among NiV and HeV polymerase complex proteins may not impact their interactions. The observed indiscriminate activity of NiV and HeV polymerase complex proteins is different from related viruses, which can support the replication of heterologous genomes only when the whole polymerase complex belongs to the same virus. This newly observed promiscuous property of the henipavirus polymerase complex proteins likely attributed to their conserved interaction regions could potentially be harnessed to develop universal anti-henipavirus antivirals.

IMPORTANCE

Given the severity of disease induced by Hendra and Nipah viruses in humans and the continuous emergence of new henipaviruses as well as henipa-like viruses, it is necessary to conduct a more comprehensive investigation of the biology of henipaviruses and their interaction with the host. The replication of henipaviruses and the development of antiviral agents can be studied in systems that allow experiments to be performed under biosafety level 2 conditions. Here, we developed robust minigenome systems for the Nipah virus (NiV) and Hendra virus (HeV) that provide a convenient alternative for studying NiV and HeV replication. Using these systems, we demonstrate that any combination of the three polymerase complex proteins of NiV and HeV could effectively initiate the replication of both viral minigenomes, which suggests that the interaction regions of the polymerase complex proteins could be effective targets for universal and effective anti-henipavirus interventions.
Coding-complete genome sequence and phylogenetic analysis of Coxsackievirus B3 isolated from South Korea
Authors: Ga Yun Ji , Go Yun Young , Yeh Jung-Yong
Published: May 2024

Whole-genome sequencing of a Coxsackievirus B3 strain isolated from the stool of a febrile patient with aseptic meningoencephalitis, South Korea, in 2002 was performed. This strain exhibits a high nucleotide sequence identity with various strains circulating in China from 2001 to 2019.
Early Mississippian global δ13C excursion is not a diagenetic artifact
Authors: Braun Matthew G. , Anderson Noah T. , Bergmann Kristin D. , Griffith Elizabeth M. , Saltzman Matthew R.
Published: May 2024

Shallow-water platform carbonate δ13C may provide a record of changes in ocean chemistry through time, but early marine diagenesis and local processes can decouple these records from the global carbon cycle. Recent studies of calcium isotopes (δ44/40Ca) in shallow-water carbonates indicate that δ44/40Ca can be altered during early marine diagenesis, implying that δ13C may also potentially be altered. Here, we tested the hypothesis that the platform carbonate δ13C record of the Kinderhookian–Osagean boundary excursion (KOBE), ~353 m.y. ago, reflects a period of global diagenesis using paired isotopic (δ44/40Ca and clumped isotopes) and trace-element geochemistry from three sections in the United States. There is little evidence for covariation between δ44/40Ca and δ13C during the KOBE. Clumped isotopes from our shallowest section support primarily sediment-buffered diagenesis at relatively low temperatures. We conclude that the δ13C record of the KOBE as recorded in shallow-water carbonate is consistent with a shift in the dissolved inorganic carbon reservoir and that, more generally, ancient shallow-water carbonates can retain records of primary seawater chemistry.
Unusual case of spinal cord compression revealed a double primary Hodgkin’s lymphoma of the spinal cord
Authors: Filali Imane , Ansari Naoual El , El Haddad Siham , Hessissen Laila
Published: May 2024

Hodgkin’s lymphoma revealed by a medullary compression with a double primary vertebral localisation is extremely rare. We report the case of a boy in middle childhood who was presented with slow progression of medullary compression syndrome over 9 months, ultimately leading to paraplegia with loss of sphincter tone. The spinal MRI showed two tumour processes at T9 and L1 with epidural extension. An anatomical-pathological examination of the biopsy of the tumour mass, along with immunohistochemical analysis, confirmed the diagnosis of a lymphocyte-rich classic Hodgkin’s lymphoma, stage IV according to the Ann Arbor classification. The therapeutic strategy was based on chemotherapy. This study aims to report a unique clinical presentation of Hodgkin’s lymphoma in a paediatric patient and underscores the diagnostic challenges encountered in such an uncommon scenario.
Cerebrocostomandibular syndrome: a diagnostic challenge
Authors: Conlon Alison , Fragkouli Evangelia , Tarrant Ailbhe , Boyle Michael A
Published: May 2024

A male infant born in a tertiary maternity facility was noted to have microretrognathia, a small mouth and macroglossia at delivery. He was born limp and apnoeic and required multiple attempts at intubation before a definitive airway was eventually sited. Chest X-rays, while in the paediatric intensive care unit, demonstrated dysplastic ribs with associated ‘high-riding’ clavicles. A later X-ray was reported as showing interrupted posterior ribs. A tracheostomy was formed on day of life 9 given the immediate risk to the baby’s airway. Further imaging of the facial bones, skull and brain showed generous CSF spaces over the cerebral convexities and also marked hypoplasia of the mandible and mid-face. The baby’s middle ear cavities were shown to be completely opacified. Genetic testing eventually went on to confirm a diagnosis of cerebrocostomandibular syndrome, with the detection of a pathogenic variant of the small nuclear ribonucleoprotein polypeptide B gene.
Previously undiagnosed genetic disease in adult patient with hepatic masses and reported history of congenital hyperinsulinism
Authors: Kuzy Jacob , Pulipati Yochitha , Robertson Thomas
Published: May 2024

Glycogen storage disease type 1A (GSD1A), also known as Von Gierke’s disease, is a rare autosomal recessive disorder affecting glycogen metabolism in the liver. It most commonly presents in infancy with hypoglycaemia and failure to thrive, but cases have been reported as undiagnosed until adulthood. A woman in her early 20s with diabetes mellitus presented with right upper quadrant pain and was found to have several haemorrhagic hepatic adenomas. This patient had insulin-dependent diabetes since a pancreatectomy at age 9 months due to continued episodes of hypoglycaemia and suspected insulinoma. During the hospital stay, the hepatic adenomas were embolised, but significant lactic acidosis and hypoglycaemia continued. Further workup revealed a chronic lactic acid level, during several hospital stays, of above 5 mmol/L. After cytology of hepatic tissue ruled out hepatocellular carcinoma, the patient was discharged and recommended to follow-up for genetic testing, which confirmed the diagnosis of GSD1A.