bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adequate Minority Place-Name Representation on Topographic Maps
Authors: Jordan Peter
Published: October 2023

Besides representation of their place names in public space (in the linguistic landscape) on town signs, road signs, public buildings, etc., finding their names also on topographic maps, notably official topographic maps, is very important for autochthonous linguistic minorities residing in a place already for many generations. They regard this as recognizing their presence and their share in the place. It also means supporting their emotional ties to the place and is, thus, also in the interest of the majority since it strengthens the minority’s loyalty to the majority and their common political entity. Based on Ferjan Ormeling’s seminal work (Ormeling in Minority Toponyms on Maps. The Rendering of Linguistic Minority Toponyms on Topographic Maps of Western Europe (= Utrechtse geografische studies, 30). Utrecht, 1983), later literature and the author’s (together with Přemysl Mácha et al.) recent comparative study of southern Carinthia (Austria) and the Těšín/Cieszyn region (Czechia) (Jordan et al. 2021), the paper endeavors to substantiate that the following are criteria of an adequate minority place-name representation on topographic maps:

Share of minority place names in local use represented on the map

Consistency of minority place-name representation across feature categories

Consistency of minority place-name representation across map scales

Visual representation of minority in relation to majority place names
Feature selection using differential evolution for microarray data classification
Authors: Prajapati Sanjay , Das Himansu , Gourisaria Mahendra Kumar
Published: October 2023

The dimensions of microarray datasets are very large, containing noise and redundancy. The problem with microarray datasets is the presence of more features compared to the number of samples, which adversely affects algorithm performance. In other words, the number of columns exceeds the number of rows. Therefore, to extract precise information from microarray datasets, a robust technique is required. Microarray datasets play a critical role in detecting various diseases, including cancer and tumors. This is where feature selection techniques come into play. In recent times, feature selection (FS) has gained significant importance as a data preparation method, particularly for high-dimensional data. It is preferable to address classification problems with fewer features while maintaining high accuracy, as not all features are necessary to achieve this goal. The primary objective of feature selection is to identify the optimal subset of features. In this context, we will employ the Differential Evolution (DE) algorithm. DE is a population-based stochastic search approach that has found widespread use in various scientific and technical domains to solve optimization problems in continuous spaces. In our approach, we will combine DE with three different classification algorithms: Random Forest (RF), Decision Tree (DT), and Logistic Regression (LR). Our analysis will include a comparison of the accuracy achieved by each algorithmic model on each dataset, as well as the fitness error for each model. The results indicate that when feature selection was used the results were better compared to the results where the feature selection was not used.
Spatial and Temporal Trends in Pancreatic Cancer Burden Attributable to High Body Mass Index at the Global and National Levels
Authors: Cao Fei , Li Feng , Shi Lei , Zhang Guoyao , Zhang Lei , Ma Tianjiang , Zhang Kexun
Published: October 2023

Objectives

To examine the spatiotemporal trends in pancreatic cancer (PC) disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) and mortality attributable to high body-mass index (BMI) by age, gender, and countries from 1990 to 2019.

Methods

Data were extracted from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2019 results. We presented the annual number of PC DALYs and mortality, and corresponding age-standardized rates (ASDR and ASMR), which were further stratified by age, gender, and countries. The estimated annual percentage change (EAPC) was computed to assess the longitudinal trends in ASRs.

Results

In 2019, 0.7 million DALYs and 31.9 thousand deaths worldwide were caused by PC attributable to high BMI, with the largest amount reported in high-income North America, Western Europe, and East Asia. The corresponding ASDR and ASMR were highest in females and in high SDI regions, while quite varied across countries. The global EAPC in ASDR and ASMR was 1.45 (95% uncertainty interval [UI]: 1.40, 1.50) and 1.44 (95% UI: 1.39, 1.49), respectively. Almost all involved countries demonstrated significant uptrends in ASRs from 1990 to 2019.

Conclusions

More productive efforts to reduce the impact of modifiable risk factors, such as overweight, should be undertaken, and thus effectively curb the rise of PC burden.
Engaging Children in Applied Linguistics Research
Authors: Pinter Annamaria
Published: October 2023

Who should speak for children in applied linguistics research? Should it be only adults, or is there room for children's perspectives and views as well? This pioneering book brings their voices to the forefront and shows that listening to children can open up new possibilities to conduct research with children rather than just on them. It covers a range of possibilities, from simply asking for children's perspectives to increasing levels of active participation, including adult-child partnerships as well as child-led research. Examples taken from the interdisciplinary literature illustrate what is feasible to achieve in different contexts, and both benefits and challenges are discussed, alongside the most pressing ethical dilemmas. A new, alternative framework for researching with children is promoted, which invites teachers and researchers to consider a wider range of roles that children can play, and encourages them to find their own opportunities when it comes to research involving children.
On Laudianism
Authors: Lake Peter
Published: October 2023

Laudianism was both a way of being Christian and a political ideology. This definitive account establishes the theological roots and political resonances of Laudianism, and shows how it was based on the recuperation of the theological principles and ecclesiastical and pietistic ambitions that underpinned it. Peter Lake shows how the Laudians' famous obsession with the beauty of holiness contained a plan for the reinvigoration of both the church and the state. It represented a self-conscious reaction against the long-term evils of puritanism and of the immediate political crisis of the 1620s, caused in turn by the evils of (an often puritan) popularity. The result was a coherent account of the theological, liturgical and political essence of the Church of England. On Laudianism explores how this intensely controversial movement, and the strong reactions it provoked, helped cause the English Civil War, but over the long term provided one of the visions of the national church, one that has been in contention to define 'Anglicanism' ever since.
Optimal Fractionation in Radiotherapy
Authors: Ghate Archis
Published: October 2023

This monograph provides a mathematically rigorous overview of optimal fractionation in cancer radiotherapy, which seeks to address the fundamental tradeoff of maximizing tumor-kill while protecting nearby healthy tissue from toxic effects. Most mathematical research on exact solutions to this problem is scattered across journals in applied mathematics, operations research, radiobiology, medicine, and medical physics. These works rarely include rigorous proofs or detailed derivations of their methodologies. Moreover, computer programs utilized for conducting numerical experiments seldom accompany these publications, thereby jeopardizing reproducibility. This monograph aims to provide a comprehensive pedagogical reference that brings researchers up to speed on optimal fractionation, utilizing and illustrating analytical techniques from linear algebra, calculus, linear programming, quadratic and nonlinear programming, robust optimization, and inverse optimization. Its purpose is to help readers understand the mathematics behind the optimal fractionation problem, empowering them to contribute original work to this field.
Financial literacy and financial well-being: Evidence from the US
Authors: Lusardi Annamaria , Streeter Jialu L.
Published: October 2023

This paper examines financial literacy in the United States, using the 2021 National Financial Capability Study data. A large volume of papers have demonstrated the importance of financial knowledge and documented the low level of financial literacy in America. Using recent data collected during an unusual time when inflation was rising and the country was in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, we show that the knowledge of fundamental financial concepts continues to be low in the US, especially among people who are young, less educated, female, or not employed. Our analysis also highlights people’s lack of inflation knowledge and identifies the subgroups that are particularly vulnerable. Finally, we examine how financial literacy affects financial well-being and behaviors. Responses to the Big Three financial literacy questions are linked to important financial behaviors and outcomes, including planning for retirement, financial resilience, and not carrying too much debt.
Delegated legislation in the pandemic: further limits of a constitutional bargain revealed
Authors: Lock Daniella , de Londras Fiona , Hidalgo Pablo Grez
Published: October 2023

The challenge that delegated legislation poses to parliamentary sovereignty and associated supremacy in the UK is purportedly addressed through what we term the ‘constitutional bargain of delegated law-making’. This has three elements: the proper limitation of delegation by Parliament through well-designed parent legislation; the exercise of self-restraint by the Executive in the use of delegated authority; and the enablement of meaningful scrutiny by Parliament. As a paradigm situation in which delegated law-making might be said to be necessary, the first year of the Covid-19 pandemic is an apposite context in which to assess the robustness of that bargain. Our analysis uses a sample of Westminster-generated pandemic-related secondary instruments as a peephole into the broader dynamics of this constitutional bargain and further reveals its significant frailties; frailties that are exposed, but not created, by the pandemic.
Exploring the Neo-Colonial Influence of Chinese FDI and Western Power on the Evolution of Labor Market Policies in a Developing Country
Authors: Nyiawung Julius , Geary John , Piabuo Mandiefe
Published: October 2023

Despite the influx of Chinese FDI at the dawn of the 21st century and decades of neo-liberal, market-oriented economic policies in Africa, the pervasive nature of institutional voids (particularly in the labor market) has been constantly flagged as an impediment to socio-economic development in the continent. This has prompted calls for more research into the ability of independent African states to pursue viable labor market policy options, from a business system perspective. While institutional theory (specifically the notion of institutional voids) suggests the use of market-supporting and contract-enforcement structures and processes to enable the efficient functioning of the economy, it does not address the effect of strong external ‘powers’ on weak local institutions in developing countries. This study qualitatively explores how the shifting geopolitical landscape (power) from Western to Chinese sources of FDI shaped the nature and evolution of labor market institutions in Cameroon. The findings show that an entrenched parochial and crony Cameroonian institutional context was at the mercy of transnational forces playing a pivotal role, rather than coherent national socio-economic policy options, in shaping labor market institutions in the country. In an act of political complicity, the dynamics that flowed from Chinese FDI have engendered a regressive turn toward the failed nationalistic labor market policies pursued by Cameroon after independence. This article contributes to revealing the debilitating role of Chinese and Western FDI, and the ensuing dynamics, in the creation and sustenance of labor market institutions in a parochial developing economic context characterized by regulative institutional voids.
Diet and deprivation in pregnancy: a rat model to investigate the effects of the maternal diet on the growth of the dam and its offspring
Authors: Dasgin Halil , Hay Susan M. , Rees William D.
Published: October 2023

The offspring of women in the poorest socio-economic groups in Western societies have an increased risk of developing non-communicable disease in adult life. Deprivation is closely related to the consumption of a diet with an excess of energy (sugar and fat), salt and a shortage of key vitamins. To test the hypothesis that this diet adversely affects the development and long-term health of the offspring, we have formulated two rodent diets, one with a nutrient profile corresponding to the diet of pregnant women in the poorest socio-economic group (DEP) and a second that incorporated current UK recommendations for the diet in pregnancy (REC). Female rats were fed the experimental diets for the duration of gestation and lactation and the offspring compared with those from a reference group fed the AIN-93G diet. The growth trajectory of DEP and REC offspring was reduced compared with the AIN-93G. The REC offspring diet had a transient increase in adipose reserves at weaning, but by 30 weeks of age the body composition of all three groups was similar. The maternal diet had no effect on the homoeostatic model assessment index or the insulin tolerance of the offspring. Changes in hepatic gene expression in the adult REC offspring were consistent with an increased hepatic utilisation of fatty acids and a reduction in de novo lipogenesis. These results show that despite changes in growth and adiposity maternal metabolic adaptation minimises the adverse consequences of the imbalanced maternal diet on the metabolism of the offspring.
More than autophony: a case of Kennedy's disease presenting with autophony as an early clinical manifestation
Authors: Lee Hyung-Soo , Choi June , Kwon Do-Young
Published: October 2023

Background

As autophony can be accompanied by several conditions, it is important to find co-morbidities. This paper reports a patient with Kennedy's disease (spinobulbar muscular atrophy, an X-linked, hereditary, lower motor neuron disease) having autophony as the first symptom.

Case report

A 62-year-old male presented to the otorhinolaryngology department with autophony that began 2 years previously and worsened after losing weight 3 months prior to presentation. Otoscopic examination demonstrated inward and outward movement of the tympanic membrane, synchronised with respiration. Although he had no other symptoms, facial twitching was found on physical examination. In the neurology department, lower motor neuron disease, with subtle weakness of the tongue, face and upper limbs, and gynaecomastia, were confirmed. He was diagnosed with Kennedy's disease based on genetic analysis.

Conclusion

Autophonia was presumed to be attributed to bulbofacial muscle weakness due to Kennedy's disease, and worsened by recent weight loss. Patients with autophony require a thorough history-taking and complete physical examination to assess the nasopharynx and the integrity of lower cranial function.
Prevalence of thyroid gland tissue in midline neck dermoid cysts in children and a proposed new ‘thyroglossal entrainment’ hypothesis for their formation
Authors: Barbour Amy , Penman Dawn , Kubba Haytham
Published: October 2023

Background

Thyroglossal duct cysts and dermoid cysts both commonly present as midline neck lumps in children. They are treated as separate entities with different embryological origins. There are isolated reports of thyroid gland tissue in a dermoid cyst, concurrent thyroglossal and dermoid cysts, and cysts with mixed histology. It is not known if these are rare or common.

Methods

All children undergoing excision of a congenital midline neck cyst between January 2017 and December 2022 were identified. Histopathology slides were reviewed in detail.

Results

In 53 children, there were 26 thyroglossal duct cysts, 24 dermoids, 1 lymph node and 2 with no diagnostic material identified. Five dermoids (28 per cent) had associated thyroid gland tissue, and 1 (4 per cent) had hybrid histology with keratinising and respiratory epithelium. Infection occurred in 17 per cent of dermoids prior to excision and 8 per cent of dermoids recurred after excision.

Conclusion

Hybrid histology, infection and recurrence are all common in midline neck dermoids. A new theory for their embryological origin is proposed, with the suggestion that some may need more extensive surgery.
Existentialism and International Relations: In it up to our necks
Authors: Hom Andrew R. , O’Driscoll Cian
Published: October 2023

What, this essay asks, is the relation between contemporary IR scholarship and the existentialist intellectual and cultural tradition? How is our discipline informed and animated by existentialist thinking? Is existentialism a heritage to be recovered, claimed, and embraced by IR scholars, or a shadow to be escaped? And what resources does it furnish us for thinking through the kind of issues that IR scholars are called upon to grapple with today? These questions are not purely theoretical. There are practical and political reasons, not only for considering them, but for considering them now. Living through what has been termed an unfolding ‘Age of Anxiety’, we find ourselves confronted by existential questions and existentialist ideas at almost every turn. It is, however, unclear how substantive or meaningful this apparently existentialist moment truly is. Does existentialism have something to say to contemporary IR, or does it flatter to deceive? We think the time is ripe to take stock of existentialism as it relates to IR and global politics. This is the purpose of this article and of the collection of essays it introduces.
Optimization of a wideband antipodal Vivaldi antenna with metalenses
Authors: Loconsole Antonella Maria , Portosi Vincenza , Francione Vito Vincenzo , Anelli Francesco , Annunziato Andrea , Falconi Mario Christian , Prudenzano Francesco
Published: October 2023

A wideband antipodal Vivaldi antenna has been designed and optimized. A slight improvement is obtained by employing multiple metalense based on circular split-ring resonators to maximize the antenna gain with the maximum bandwidth. The designed antennas have been fabricated and characterized, showing good agreement with simulations. The maximum measured gain is $G = 12\;{\textrm{dB}}$, and the −10 dB bandwidth is from $f = 3\;{\textrm{GHz}}$ to $f = 13\;{\textrm{GHz}}$.
Addressing biases in replacement series: the importance of reference density selection for interpretation of competition outcomes
Authors: Leon Ramon G. , Oreja Fernando H. , Mirsky Steven B. , Reberg-Horton Chris
Published: October 2023

Replacement series are used by researchers to understand how competition-related variables influence dynamics from the individual to the population and community levels, but this approach has been criticized because of inherent biases associated with plant size differences and density-dependent responses. The use of functional densities instead of demographic densities was proposed to minimize those biases. This work explored three models to determine reference densities for replacement series experiments based on (1) maximum biomass, (2) biomass at onset of diminishing returns (i.e., inflection point), and (3) nitrogen (N)-uptake equivalency. Replacement series experiments were conducted using redroot pigweed (Amaranthus hybridus L.):maize (Zea mays L.) and giant foxtail (Setaria faberi Herrm.):maize proportions of 1:0, 0.75:0.25, 0.5:0.5, 0.25:0.75, and 0:1. The monoculture density for each species was established according to the three models. Density selection criteria resulted in major differences in competitive interactions between species. The use of functional densities at which the biomass accumulation inflection point for the smaller species allowed both species to exhibit either increases or decreases in biomass production depending on competitive interactions for all interspecific mixtures. Conversely, the maximum biomass model favored the larger species, almost completely inhibiting the growth of the smaller species, which resulted in a poor characterization of competitive responses of the smaller species. The N uptake equivalency model resulted in interactions closer to the predicted neutral competition. The model based on the biomass accumulation inflection point was the most sensitive and informative across all interspecific mixtures for both species. We propose that to reduce bias associated with species size differences when determining reference densities for replacement series experiments, at least two criteria must be met: (1) the experiment sensitivity allows measuring and quantifying the competitive responses for both species in all mixtures, and (2) the balance between density and carrying capacity of the system minimizes intraspecific competition.
Tropical Volcanic Eruptions and Low Frequency Indo‐Pacific Variability Drive Extreme Indian Ocean Dipole Events
Authors: Tiger Benjamin H. , Ummenhofer Caroline C.
Published: October 2023

Volcanic eruptions can have significant climate impacts and serve as useful natural experiments for better understanding the effects of abrupt, externally forced climate change. Here, we investigate the Indian Ocean Dipole's (IOD) response to the largest tropical volcanic eruptions of the last millennium. Post‐eruption composites show a strong negative IOD developing in the eruption year, and a positive IOD the following year. The IOD and El Niño‐Southern Oscillation (ENSO) show a long‐term damped oscillatory response that can take up to 8 years to return to pre‐eruptive baselines. Moreover, the Interdecadal Pacific Oscillation (IPO) phase at the time of eruption controls the IOD response to intense eruptions, with negative (positive) IPO phasing favoring more negative (positive) IOD values via modulation of the background state of the eastern Indian Ocean thermocline depth. These results have important implications for climate risk in low‐likelihood, high‐impact scenarios, particularly in vulnerable communities unprepared for IOD and ENSO extremes.
Trapped and Leaking Energetic Particles in Injection Flux Tubes of Saturn's Magnetosphere
Authors: Yin Ze‐Fan , Sun Yi‐Xin , Zhou Xu‐Zhi , Pan Dong‐Xiao , Yao Zhong‐Hua , Yue Chao , Hu Ze‐Jun , Roussos Elias , Blanc Michel , Lai Hai‐Rong , Zong Qiu‐Gang
Published: October 2023

In Saturn's magnetosphere, the radially‐inward transport of magnetic fluxes is usually carried by localized flux tubes with sharply‐enhanced equatorial magnetic fields. The flux tubes also bring energetic particles inward, which are expected to drift azimuthally and produce energy‐dispersive signatures. Spacecraft observations, however, indicate the occurrence of energy‐dispersionless signatures for perpendicular‐moving particles. These unexpected features are attributed to the sharp magnetic gradient at the edge of the flux tubes, which significantly modifies the drift trajectories of perpendicular‐moving particles to enable their trapping motion within the flux tubes. The bouncing particles are less affected by the gradient, and therefore, still display energy‐dispersive signatures. It is the distinct particle behavior, together with different spacecraft traversal paths, that underlies the observational diversity. The results improve our understanding of particle dynamics in the magnetospheres of giant planets and indicate that pitch‐angle information should be considered in the extraction of flux‐tube properties from energetic particle observations.
Developing the Technology-Based Parenting Young Children Check-up Intervention for Disruptive Behavior Problems Identified in Pediatric Primary Care
Authors: McGoron Lucy , Towner Elizabeth K. , Martel Michelle M. , Trentacosta Christopher J. , Purkayestha Sharmi , Friedrich Florentine S. , Traylor Parris , Ondersma Steven J.
Published: October 2023

Objective:

Behavioral parent training programs show clear efficacy and effectiveness in response to young children’s disruptive behavior problems, but limitations in engagement and accessibility prevent many families from benefiting from these programs. The Parenting Young Children Check-up (PYCC) is a technology-based program designed to overcome these barriers and increase the reach of behavioral parent training. Developed for use in pediatric primary care, the PYCC includes three components: (a) an initial check-up designed to motivate program involvement; (b) text messages to connect parents with program content and reinforce content; and (c) a parent training website involving video-based content to teach parenting skills. This report details initial steps to refine PYCC intervention components.

Method:

Seventeen mothers and 17 primary care physicians participated in this mixed methods data collection across three iterations by providing feedback on early drafts of the three components of the PYCC and completing a feedback questionnaire.

Results:

Feedback from one iteration informed modifications that were then evaluated in subsequent iterations. Saturation of qualitative input, positive qualitative feedback, and positive quantitative ratings on the feedback questionnaire was achieved in iteration three.

Conclusions:

Outcomes of this investigation informed the full version of the PYCC that will subsequently be tested in a proof-of-concept trial.

Implications for Impact Statement

Several barriers limit the reach of parenting skills programs that reduce child problem behavior. We gathered feedback from parents and physicians to refine a parenting program that uses technology and delivery in pediatrics to overcome barriers. Future testing of the program will further inform implementation in pediatric settings.
The USP46 complex deubiquitylates LRP6 to promote Wnt/β-catenin signaling
Authors: Ng Victoria H. , Spencer Zachary , Neitzel Leif R. , Nayak Anmada , Loberg Matthew A. , Shen Chen , Kassel Sara N. , Kroh Heather K. , An Zhenyi , Anthony Christin C. , Bryant Jamal M. , Lawson Amanda , Goldsmith Lily , Benchabane Hassina , Hansen Amanda G. , Li Jingjing , D’Souza Starina , Lebensohn Andres M. , Rohatgi Rajat , Weiss William A. , Weiss Vivian L. , Williams Charles , Hong Charles C. , Robbins David J. , Ahmed Yashi , Lee Ethan
Published: October 2023

The relative abundance of Wnt receptors plays a crucial role in controlling Wnt signaling in tissue homeostasis and human disease. While the ubiquitin ligases that ubiquitylate Wnt receptors are well-characterized, the deubiquitylase that reverses these reactions remains unclear. Herein, we identify USP46, UAF1, and WDR20 (USP46 complex) as positive regulators of Wnt signaling in cultured human cells. We find that the USP46 complex is similarly required for Wnt signaling in Xenopus and zebrafish embryos. We demonstrate that Wnt signaling promotes the association between the USP46 complex and cell surface Wnt coreceptor, LRP6. Knockdown of USP46 decreases steady-state levels of LRP6 and increases the level of ubiquitylated LRP6. In contrast, overexpression of the USP46 complex blocks ubiquitylation of LRP6 by the ubiquitin ligases RNF43 and ZNFR3. Size exclusion chromatography studies suggest that the size of the USP46 cytoplasmic complex increases upon Wnt stimulation. Finally, we show that USP46 is essential for Wnt-dependent intestinal organoid viability, likely via its role in LRP6 receptor homeostasis. We propose a model in which the USP46 complex increases the steady-state level of cell surface LRP6 and facilitates the assembly of LRP6 into signalosomes via a pruning mechanism that removes sterically hindering ubiquitin chains.
Cascade electrocatalysis via AgCu single-atom alloy and Ag nanoparticles in CO2 electroreduction toward multicarbon products
Authors: Du Cheng , Mills Joel P. , Yohannes Asfaw G. , Wei Wei , Wang Lei , Lu Siyan , Lian Jian-Xiang , Wang Maoyu , Guo Tao , Wang Xiyang , Zhou Hua , Sun Cheng-Jun , Wen John Z. , Kendall Brian , Couillard Martin , Guo Hongsheng , Tan ZhongChao , Siahrostami Samira , Wu Yimin A.
Published: October 2023

Electrocatalytic CO2 reduction into value-added multicarbon products offers a means to close the anthropogenic carbon cycle using renewable electricity. However, the unsatisfactory catalytic selectivity for multicarbon products severely hinders the practical application of this technology. In this paper, we report a cascade AgCu single-atom and nanoparticle electrocatalyst, in which Ag nanoparticles produce CO and AgCu single-atom alloys promote C-C coupling kinetics. As a result, a Faradaic efficiency (FE) of 94 ± 4% toward multicarbon products is achieved with the as-prepared AgCu single-atom and nanoparticle catalyst under ~720 mA cm−2 working current density at −0.65 V in a flow cell with alkaline electrolyte. Density functional theory calculations further demonstrate that the high multicarbon product selectivity results from cooperation between AgCu single-atom alloys and Ag nanoparticles, wherein the Ag single-atom doping of Cu nanoparticles increases the adsorption energy of *CO on Cu sites due to the asymmetric bonding of the Cu atom to the adjacent Ag atom with a compressive strain.
Acetylation-dependent coupling between G6PD activity and apoptotic signaling
Authors: Wu Fang , Muskat Natali H. , Dvilansky Inbar , Koren Omri , Shahar Anat , Gazit Roi , Elia Natalie , Arbely Eyal
Published: October 2023

Lysine acetylation has been discovered in thousands of non-histone human proteins, including most metabolic enzymes. Deciphering the functions of acetylation is key to understanding how metabolic cues mediate metabolic enzyme regulation and cellular signaling. Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD), the rate-limiting enzyme in the pentose phosphate pathway, is acetylated on multiple lysine residues. Using site-specifically acetylated G6PD, we show that acetylation can activate (AcK89) and inhibit (AcK403) G6PD. Acetylation-dependent inactivation is explained by structural studies showing distortion of the dimeric structure and active site of G6PD. We provide evidence for acetylation-dependent K95/97 ubiquitylation of G6PD and Y503 phosphorylation, as well as interaction with p53 and induction of early apoptotic events. Notably, we found that the acetylation of a single lysine residue coordinates diverse acetylation-dependent processes. Our data provide an example of the complex roles of acetylation as a posttranslational modification that orchestrates the regulation of enzymatic activity, posttranslational modifications, and apoptotic signaling.
A natural mutation in the promoter of Ms-cd1 causes dominant male sterility in Brassica oleracea
Authors: Han Fengqing , Yuan Kaiwen , Sun Wenru , Zhang Xiaoli , Liu Xing , Zhao Xinyu , Yang Limei , Wang Yong , Ji Jialei , Liu Yumei , Li Zhansheng , Zhang Jinzhe , Zhang Chunzhi , Huang Sanwen , Zhang Yangyong , Fang Zhiyuan , Lv Honghao
Published: October 2023

Male sterility has been used for crop hybrid breeding for a long time. It has contributed greatly to crop yield increase. However, the genetic basis of male sterility has not been fully elucidated. Here, we report map-based cloning of the cabbage (Brassica oleracea) dominant male-sterile gene Ms-cd1 and reveal that it encodes a PHD-finger motif transcription factor. A natural allele Ms-cd1PΔ−597, resulting from a 1-bp deletion in the promoter, confers dominant genic male sterility (DGMS), whereas loss-of-function ms-cd1 mutant shows recessive male sterility. We also show that the ethylene response factor BoERF1L represses the expression of Ms-cd1 by directly binding to its promoter; however, the 1-bp deletion in Ms-cd1PΔ−597 affects the binding. Furthermore, ectopic expression of Ms-cd1PΔ−597 confers DGMS in both dicotyledonous and monocotyledonous plant species. We thus propose that the DGMS system could be useful for breeding hybrids of multiple crop species.
Increasing dopamine synthesis in nigrostriatal circuits increases phasic dopamine release and alters dorsal striatal connectivity: implications for schizophrenia
Authors: Srivastav Sunil , Cui Xiaoying , Varela Roger Bitencourt , Kesby James P. , Eyles Darryl
Published: October 2023

One of the most robust neurochemical abnormalities reported in patients with schizophrenia is an increase in dopamine (DA) synthesis and release, restricted to the dorsal striatum (DS). This hyper functionality is strongly associated with psychotic symptoms and progresses in those who later transition to schizophrenia. To understand the implications of this progressive neurobiology on brain function, we have developed a model in rats which we refer to as EDiPs (Enhanced Dopamine in Prodromal schizophrenia). The EDiPs model features a virally mediated increase in dorsal striatal (DS) DA synthesis capacity across puberty and into adulthood. This protocol leads to progressive changes in behaviour and neurochemistry. Our aim in this study was to explore if increased DA synthesis capacity alters the physiology of DA release and DS connectivity. Using fast scan cyclic voltammetry to assess DA release we show that evoked/phasic DA release is increased in the DS of EDiPs rats, whereas tonic/background levels of DA remain unaffected. Using quantitative immunohistochemistry methods to quantify DS synaptic architecture we show a presynaptic marker for DA release sites (Bassoon) was elevated within TH axons specifically within the DS, consistent with the increased phasic DA release in this region. Alongside changes in DA systems, we also show increased density of vesicular glutamate transporter 1 (VGluT1) synapses in the EDiPs DS suggesting changes in cortical connectivity. Our data may prove relevant in understanding the long-term implications for DS function in response to the robust and prolonged increases in DA synthesis uptake and release reported in schizophrenia.
In situ formed partially disordered phases as earth-abundant Mn-rich cathode materials
Authors: Cai Zijian , Ouyang Bin , Hau Han-Ming , Chen Tina , Giovine Raynald , Koirala Krishna Prasad , Li Linze , Ji Huiwen , Ha Yang , Sun Yingzhi , Huang Jianping , Chen Yu , Wu Vincent , Yang Wanli , Wang Chongmin , Clément Raphaële J. , Lun Zhengyan , Ceder Gerbrand
Published: October 2023

Earth-abundant cathode materials are urgently needed to enable scaling of the Li-ion industry to multiply terawatt hours of annual production, necessitating reconsideration of how good cathode materials can be obtained. Irreversible transition metal migration and phase transformations in Li-ion cathodes are typically believed to be detrimental because they may trigger voltage hysteresis, poor kinetics and capacity degradation. Here we challenge this conventional consensus by reporting an unusual phase transformation from disordered Li- and Mn-rich rock salts to a new phase (named δ), which displays partial spinel-like ordering with short coherence length and exhibits high energy density and rate capability. Unlike other Mn-based cathodes, the δ phase exhibits almost no voltage fade upon cycling. We identify the driving force and kinetics of this in situ cathode formation and establish design guidelines for Li- and Mn-rich compositions that combine high energy density, high rate capability and good cyclability, thereby enabling Mn-based energy storage.
No phenotypic or genotypic evidence for a link between sleep duration and brain atrophy
Authors: Fjell Anders M. , Sørensen Øystein , Wang Yunpeng , Amlien Inge K. , Baaré William F. C. , Bartrés-Faz David , Bertram Lars , Boraxbekk Carl-Johan , Brandmaier Andreas M. , Demuth Ilja , Drevon Christian A. , Ebmeier Klaus P. , Ghisletta Paolo , Kievit Rogier , Kühn Simone , Madsen Kathrine Skak , Mowinckel Athanasia M. , Nyberg Lars , Sexton Claire E. , Solé-Padullés Cristina , Vidal-Piñeiro Didac , Wagner Gerd , Watne Leiv Otto , Walhovd Kristine B.
Published: October 2023

Short sleep is held to cause poorer brain health, but is short sleep associated with higher rates of brain structural decline? Analysing 8,153 longitudinal MRIs from 3,893 healthy adults, we found no evidence for an association between sleep duration and brain atrophy. In contrast, cross-sectional analyses (51,295 observations) showed inverse U-shaped relationships, where a duration of 6.5 (95% confidence interval, (5.7, 7.3)) hours was associated with the thickest cortex and largest volumes relative to intracranial volume. This fits converging evidence from research on mortality, health and cognition that points to roughly seven hours being associated with good health. Genome-wide association analyses suggested that genes associated with longer sleep for below-average sleepers were linked to shorter sleep for above-average sleepers. Mendelian randomization did not yield evidence for causal impacts of sleep on brain structure. The combined results challenge the notion that habitual short sleep causes brain atrophy, suggesting that normal brains promote adequate sleep duration—which is shorter than current recommendations.
Resonant enhancement of photo-induced superconductivity in K3C60
Authors: Rowe E. , Yuan B. , Buzzi M. , Jotzu G. , Zhu Y. , Fechner M. , Först M. , Liu B. , Pontiroli D. , Riccò M. , Cavalleri A.
Published: October 2023

Photo-excitation at terahertz and mid-infrared frequencies has emerged as an effective way to manipulate functionalities in quantum materials, in some cases creating non-equilibrium phases that have no equilibrium analogue. In K3C60, a metastable zero-resistance phase was observed that has optical properties, nonlinear electrical transport and pressure dependencies compatible with non-equilibrium high-temperature superconductivity. Here we demonstrate a two-orders-of-magnitude increase in photo-susceptibility near 10 THz excitation frequency. At these drive frequencies, a metastable superconducting-like phase is observed up to room temperature. The discovery of a dominant frequency scale sheds light on the microscopic mechanism underlying photo-induced superconductivity. It also indicates a path towards steady-state operation, limited at present by the availability of a suitable high-repetition-rate optical source at these frequencies.
Transcriptome profiling of Fraxinus excelsior genotypes infested by emerald ash borer
Authors: Doonan James M. , Kosawang Chatchai , Eisenring Michael , Ladd Tim , Roe Amanda D. , Budde Katharina B. , Jørgensen Hans Jørgen Lyngs , Queloz Valentin , Gossner Martin M. , Nielsen Lene R.
Published: October 2023

European ash,Fraxinus excelsioris facing the double threat of ongoing devastation by the invasive fungal pathogen,Hymenoscyphus fraxineusand the imminent arrival of the non-native emerald ash borer (EAB),Agrilus planipennis. The spread of EAB which is currently moving westwards from European Russia and Ukraine into central Europe, poses an additional substantial threat to European ash,F. excelsior. While the molecular basis for resistance or variation in resistance among European ash genotypes is heavily investigated, comparatively little is known about the molecular ash traits involved in resistance against EAB. In this study we have gathered transcriptomic data from EAB inoculated genotypes ofF. excelsiorthat have previously shown different levels of susceptibility to EAB. Resultant datasets show differential gene expression in susceptible and resistant genotypes in response to EAB infestation. This data will provide important information on the molecular basis of resistance to the EAB and allow the development of management plans to combat a pending threat of a culturally and ecologically important European tree species.
Relationship between vestibular loss and the risk of dementia using the 2002–2019 national insurance service survey in South Korea
Authors: Lim Sung Jin , Son Serhim , Chung Younghan , Kim Sang Yeop , Choi Hangseok , Choi June
Published: October 2023

This retrospective cross-sectional study assessed older adults aged between 40 and 80 years, registered in the Korean National Health Insurance Service database from 2002 to 2019 to investigate the association between vestibular loss and the risk of dementia. The population was divided into three groups (general, vestibular loss, and hearing loss). The hazard ratios (HRs) of dementia in the vestibular and hearing loss groups were calculated using national population data. In total, 2,347,610 individuals were identified (general: 2,145,609, vestibular loss: 60,525, hearing loss: 141,476). Mean ages were 53.29 years, 58.26 years, and 58.52 years, respectively. Dementia occurred in 127,081 (IR = 4.91 per 1000 person-years), 7705 (IR = 10.79 per 1000 person-years), and 16,116 (IR = 9.63 per 1000 person-years) patients. The vestibular and hearing loss groups had hazard ratios for dementia of 1.084 (95% CI, 1.059–1.110) and 1.074 (95% CI, 1.056–1.092), respectively, compared with the general group. The results of the current study suggest that vestibular loss increases the risk of developing dementia. Therefore, similar to hearing loss, vestibular loss should be considered a risk factor for dementia, and treatments such as adequate vestibular rehabilitation may reduce this risk.
Reliability constrained dynamic generation expansion planning using honey badger algorithm
Authors: Abou El Ela Adel A. , El-Sehiemy Ragab A. , Shaheen Abdullah M. , Shalaby Ayman S. , Mouafi Mohamed T.
Published: October 2023

Generation expansion planning (GEP) is a complex, highly constrained, non-linear, discrete and dynamic optimization task aimed at determining the optimum generation technology mix of the best expansion alternative for long-term planning horizon. This paper presents a new framework to study the GEP in a multi-stage horizon with reliability constrained. GEP problem is presented to minimize the capital investment costs, salvage value cost, operation and maintenance, and outage cost under several constraints over planning horizon. Added to that, the spinning reserve, fuel mix ratio and reliability in terms of Loss of Load Probability are maintained. Moreover, to decrease the GEP problem search space and reduce the computational time, some modifications are proposed such as the Virtual mapping procedure, penalty factor approach, and the modified of intelligent initial population generation. For solving the proposed reliability constrained GEP problem, a novel honey badger algorithm (HBA) is developed. It is a meta-heuristic search algorithm inspired from the intelligent foraging behavior of honey badger to reach its prey. In HBA, the dynamic search behavior of honey badger with digging and honey finding approaches is formulated into exploration and exploitation phases. Added to that, several modern meta-heuristic optimization algorithms are employed which are crow search algorithm, aquila optimizer, bald eagle search and particle swarm optimization. These algorithms are applied, in a comparative manner, for three test case studies for 6-year, 12-year, and 24-year of short- and long-term planning horizon having five types of candidate units. The obtained results by all these proposed algorithms are compared and validated the effectiveness and superiority of the HBA over the other applied algorithms.
Novel acaricidal and growth-regulating activity of Aloe vera and Rheum rhabarbarum extracts and their oil/water nanoemulsions against the camel tick, Hyalomma dromedarii
Authors: Radwan Ibrahim T. , Eltaly Randa I. , Baz Mohamed M. , Yousif Mohamed , Selim Abdelfattah , Taie Hanan A. A. , Manaa Eman A. , Khater Hanem F.
Published: October 2023

Hyalomma dromedarii is an important tick species infesting livestock. This work evaluated the novel adulticidal, insect growth-regulating, and enzymatic efficacy of ethanol plant extracts of Aloe vera and Rheum rhabarbarum and their nanoemulsions against males and engorged females of the camel tick, H. dromedarii. The physicochemical properties of nanoemulsions were evaluated. The High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) analyses indicated that the extracts contained polyphenols and flavonoids, which could enhance their acaricidal effect. Dynamic light scattering (DLS) of the nanoemulsions of A. vera and R. rhabarbarum were 196.7 and 291 nm, whereas their zeta potentials were − 29.1 and − 53.1 mV, respectively. Transmission electron microscope (TEM) indicated that nanoemulsions showed a regular spherical shape (less than 100 nm). Fifteen days post-treatment (PT) with 25%, the mortality% of A. vera and R. rhabarbarum were 88.5 and 96.2%, respectively. Five days PT, the median lethal concentration values of A. vera, R. rhabarbarum, and their nanoemulsions were 7.8, 7.1, 2.8, and 1.02%, respectively, and their toxicity indices were 91.02, 100, 36.4, and 100%, respectively. Their median lethal time values PT with 3.5% were 6.09, 5.09, 1.75, and 1.34 days, respectively. Nanoemulsions enhanced the efficacy of the crude extract 1–7 folds, 5 days PT, and accelerated their speed of killing ticks 2–4 times. The total protein and carbohydrates, Acetylcholinesterase, Alpha esterase, and Amylase were affected PT. The reproductive potential of engorged females was adversely impacted. In conclusion, the novel A. vera and R. rhabarbarum extracts were promising acaricides, and their nanoformulations enhanced their efficacies.
Microglial CD300f immune receptor contributes to the maintenance of neuron viability in vitro and after a penetrating brain injury
Authors: Alí-Ruiz Daniela , Vitureira Nathalia , Peluffo Hugo
Published: October 2023

Emerging evidences suggest that immune receptors participate in diverse microglial and macrophage functions by regulating their immunometabolism, inflammatory phenotype and phagocytosis. CD300f, a TREM2-like lipid sensing immune receptor, that integrates activating and inhibitory cell-signalling pathways, modulates inflammation, efferocytosis and microglial metabolic fitness. In particular, CD300f overexpression was described to be neuroprotective after an acute brain injury, suggesting a role for this immune receptor in neurotrophic interactions. Thus, we hypothesised that CD300f modulates neuronal survival through neuron-microglial interactions. In order to study its biological function, we used in vitro and in vivo approaches, CD300f−/− animals and rCD300f-Fc, a fusion protein that interrupts the endogen interaction between CD300f receptor-ligands. In hippocampal cocultures containing neurons and mixed glia, we observed that rCD300f-Fc, but not control IgGs induced neuronal death. In accordance, in vivo studies performed by injecting rCD300f-Fc or control IgGs into rat or WT or CD300 KO mice neocortex, showed an increased lesioned area after a penetrating brain injury. Interestingly, this neuronal death was dependent on glia, and the neurotoxic mechanism did not involve the increase of proinflammatory cytokines, the participation of NMDA receptors or ATP release. However, exogenous addition of glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) prevented this process. Taken together, our results suggest that CD300f modulates neuronal survival in vitro and after a penetrating brain injury in vivo and that CD300f inhibition alters microglial phenotype generating a neurotoxic microenvironment.