bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Preliminary dosimetric characterization of EDBreast gel
Authors: Stien Christel , Rousseau Alice , Bordy Jean-Marc , Gouriou Jean
Published: May 2023

Purpose. EDBreast gel is an alternative Fricke gel dosimeter, read by Magnetic Resonance Imaging, in which sucrose is added to lower diffusion effects. This paper aims at determining the dosimetric characteristics of this dosimeter. Methods. The characterization has been performed in high energy photon beams. The dose-response of the gel has been evaluated as well as its detection limit, its fading effects, the reproducibility of its response and its stability over time. Its energy and dose-rate dependence has been investigated, and the overall dose uncertainty budget established. Once characterized, the dosimetry method has been applied to a simple reference irradiation case in a 6 MV photon beam, with the measurement of the lateral dose profile of a 2 × 2 cm2 field. The results have been compared with microDiamond measurements. Results. In addition to its low diffusivity, the gel presents a high sensitivity, no dose-rate dependence considering

T
P

R

20
−
10

values ranging from 0.66 to 0.79 and an energy response comparable to ionization chambers. However, its non-linear dose-response induces a high uncertainty on the measured dose (8 % (

k
=
1

) at 20 Gy) and reproducibility issues. The profile measurements displayed discrepancies compared to the microDiamond due to diffusion effects. The appropriate spatial resolution was estimated using the diffusion coefficient. Conclusion. EDBreast gel dosimeter presents interesting characteristics for applications in clinics, but the linearity of its dose-response should be improved to lower the uncertainties and to enhance the reproducibility.
Ion trap long-range XY model for quantum state transfer and optimal spatial search
Authors: Lewis Dylan , Banchi Leonardo , Hong Teoh Yi , Islam Rajibul , Bose Sougato
Published: May 2023

Linear ion trap chains are a promising platform for quantum computation and simulation. The XY model with long-range interactions can be implemented with a single side-band Mølmer–Sørensen scheme, giving interactions that decay as

1

/

r
α

, where

α

parameterises the interaction range. Lower

α

leads to longer range interactions, allowing faster long-range gate operations for quantum computing. However, decreasing

α

causes an increased generation of coherent phonons and appears to dephase the effective XY interaction model. We characterise and show how to correct for this effect completely, allowing lower

α

interactions to be coherently implemented. Ion trap chains are thus shown to be a viable platform for spatial quantum search in optimal

O
(

N

)

time, for N ions. Finally, we introduce a

O
(

N

)

quantum state transfer protocol, with a qubit encoding that maintains a high fidelity.
Design of a highly efficient n-CdS/p-AgGaTe2/p+-SnS double-heterojunction thin film solar cell
Authors: Islam Md. Choyon , Mondal Bipanko Kumar , Ahmed Tanvir , Pappu Md. Alamin Hossain , Mostaque Shaikh Khaled , Hossain Jaker
Published: May 2023

In this article, AgGaTe2-basedn-CdS/p-AgGaTe2/p+-SnS double-heterojunction solar cells have been designed and explored utilizing a solar cell capacitance simulator (SCAPS-1D). This design manifestedn-type CdS andp+-type SnS as window and back surface field (BSF) layer, respectively with the AgGaTe2absorber. The major contributing parameters of these layers such as thickness, doping concentration level, and bulk flaws have been adjusted to reach the optimum computation. This introducedn-CdS/p-AgGaTe2/p+-SnS double-heterostructure solar cell demonstrates the significant power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 32.48% with the open circuit voltage, VOCof 0.96 V, short circuit current, JSCof 38.64 mA cm−2, and the Fill factor, FF of 87.31%. This remarkable efficiency is originated by the formation of a higher built-in potential at thep-AgGaTe2/p+-SnS heterostructure and a decrease in the surface recombination velocity brought on by the SnS BSF layer. This computational study demonstrates the potential of AgGaTe2as an absorber and SnS as a BSF layer, and pave the way for the AgGaTe2-based experimental research in the era of solar cells.
Quantized rewiring: hardware-aware training of sparse deep neural networks
Authors: Petschenig Horst , Legenstein Robert
Published: May 2023

Mixed-signal and fully digital neuromorphic systems have been of significant interest for deploying spiking neural networks in an energy-efficient manner. However, many of these systems impose constraints in terms of fan-in, memory, or synaptic weight precision that have to be considered during network design and training. In this paper, we present quantized rewiring (Q-rewiring), an algorithm that can train both spiking and non-spiking neural networks while meeting hardware constraints during the entire training process. To demonstrate our approach, we train both feedforward and recurrent neural networks with a combined fan-in/weight precision limit, a constraint that is, for example, present in the DYNAP-SE mixed-signal analog/digital neuromorphic processor. Q-rewiring simultaneously performs quantization and rewiring of synapses and synaptic weights through gradient descent updates and projecting the trainable parameters to a constraint-compliant region. Using our algorithm, we find trade-offs between the number of incoming connections to neurons and network performance for a number of common benchmark datasets.
A mammalian cell display platform based on scFab transposition
Authors: Chang Jing , Rader Christoph , Peng Haiyong
Published: May 2023

In vitro display technologies have been successfully utilized for the discovery and evolution of monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) for diagnostic and therapeutic applications, with phage display and yeast display being the most commonly used platforms due to their simplicity and high efficiency. As their prokaryotic or lower eukaryotic host organisms typically have no or different post-translational modifications, several mammalian cell–based display and screening technologies for isolation and optimization of mAbs have emerged and are being developed. We report here a novel and useful mammalian cell display platform based on the PiggyBac transposon system to display mAbs in a single-chain Fab (scFab) format on the surface of HEK293F cells. Immune rabbit antibody libraries encompassing ~7 × 107 independent clones were generated in an all-in-one transposon vector, stably delivered into HEK293F cells and displayed as an scFab with rabbit variable and human constant domains. After one round of magnetic activated cell sorting and two rounds of fluorescence activated cell sorting, mAbs with high affinity in the subnanomolar range and cross-reactivity to the corresponding human and mouse antigens were identified, demonstrating the power of this platform for antibody discovery. We developed a highly efficient mammalian cell display platform based on the PiggyBac transposon system for antibody discovery, which could be further utilized for humanization as well as affinity and specificity maturation.
Investigating a Paradox: Toward a Better Understanding of the Relationships Between Racial Group Membership, Stress, and Major Depressive Disorder
Authors: Pamplin II John R , Rudolph Kara E , Keyes Katherine M , Susser Ezra S , Bates Lisa M
Published: May 2023

Epidemiologic studies in the United States routinely report a lower or equal prevalence of major depressive disorder (MDD) for Black people relative to White people. Within racial groups, individuals with greater life stressor exposure experience greater prevalence of MDD; however, between racial groups this pattern does not hold. Informed by theoretical and empirical literature seeking to explain this “Black-White depression paradox,” we outline 2 proposed models for the relationships between racial group membership, life stressor exposure, and MDD: an effect modification model and an inconsistent mediator model. Either model could explain the paradoxical within- and between-racial group patterns of life stressor exposure and MDD. We empirically estimated associations under each of the proposed models using data from 26,960 self-identified Black and White participants in the National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions III (United States, 2012–2013). Under the effect modification model, we estimated relative risk effect modification using parametric regression with a cross-product term, and under the inconsistent mediation model, we estimated interventional direct and indirect effects using targeted minimum loss-based estimation. We found evidence of inconsistent mediation (i.e., direct and indirect effects operating in opposite directions), suggesting a need for greater consideration of explanations for racial patterns in MDD that operate independent of life stressor exposure.

This article is part of a Special Collection on Mental Health.
Parallel origins and functions of T cells and ILCs
Authors: Jan-Abu Sia C , Kabil Ahmed , McNagny Kelly M
Published: May 2023

Innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) are tissue resident cells that are triggered through a relatively broad spectrum of alarmins, inflammatory cues, neuropeptides, and hormones. Functionally, ILCs are akin to subsets of helper T cells and are characterized by a similar effector cytokine profile. They also share a dependency on many of the same essential transcription factors identified for the maintenance and survival of T cells. The key distinguishing factor between the ILC family and T cells is the lack of antigen-specific T cell receptor (TCR) on ILCs and, thus, they can be considered the “ultimate invariant T cells”. ILCs, like T cells, orchestrate downstream effector inflammatory responses by adjusting the cytokine microenvironment in a fashion that promotes protection, health, and homeostasis at mucosal barrier sites. But also, like T cells, ILCs have recently been implicated in several pathological inflammatory disease states. This review focuses on the selective role of ILCs in the development of allergic airway inflammation (AAI) and fibrosis in the gut where a complex ILC interplay has been shown to either attenuate or worsen disease. Finally, we discuss new data on TCR gene rearrangements in subsets of ILCs that challenge the current dogma linking their origin to committed bone marrow progenitors and instead propose a thymic origin for at least some ILCs. In addition, we highlight how naturally occurring TCR rearrangements and the expression of major histocompatibility (MHC) molecules in ILCs provide a useful natural barcode for these cells and may prove instrumental in studying their origins and plasticity.
Point-of-Care Urine Lipoarabinomannan Testing to Guide Tuberculosis Treatment Among Severely Ill Inpatients With Human Immunodeficiency Virus in Real-World Practice: A Multicenter Stepped Wedge Cluster-Randomized Trial From Ghana
Authors: Åhsberg Johanna , Puplampu Peter , Kwashie Augustine , Commey Joseph Oliver , Ganu Vincent Jessey , Omari Michael Amo , Adusi-Poku Yaw , Andersen Åse Bengård , Kenu Ernest , Lartey Margaret , Johansen Isik Somuncu , Bjerrum Stephanie
Published: May 2023

Background

The lateral flow urine lipoarabinomannan assay, Determine TB LAM (Determine LAM), offers the potential for timely tuberculosis (TB) treatment among people with human immunodeficiency virus (PWH).

Methods

In this cluster-randomized trial, Determine LAM was made available with staff training with performance feedback at 3 hospitals in Ghana. Newly admitted PWH with a positive World Health Organization four-symptom screening for TB, severe illness, or advanced HIV were enrolled. The primary outcome was days from enrollment to TB treatment initiation. We also reported the proportion of patients with a TB diagnosis, initiating TB treatment, all-cause mortality, and Determine LAM uptake at 8 weeks.

Results

We enrolled 422 patients including 174 (41.2%) in the intervention group. The median CD4 count was 87 (interquartile range [IQR], 25–205) cells/μL, and 32.7% were on antiretroviral therapy. More patients were diagnosed with TB in the intervention compared with the control group: 59 (34.1%) versus 46 (18.7%) (P < .001). Time to TB treatment remained constant, but patients were more likely to initiate TB treatment (adjusted hazard ratio, 2.19 [95% CI, 1.60–3.00]) during the intervention. Of patients with a Determine LAM test available, 41 (25.3%) tested positive. Of those, 19 (46.3%) initiated TB treatment. Overall, 118 patients had died (28.2%) at 8 weeks of follow-up.

Conclusions

The Determine LAM intervention in real-world practice increased TB diagnosis and the probability of TB treatment but did not reduce time to treatment initiation. Despite high uptake, only half of the LAM-positive patients initiated TB treatment.
Significant Association of Cutavirus With Parapsoriasis en Plaques: High Prevalence Both in Skin Swab and Biopsy Samples
Authors: Mohanraj Ushanandini , Konttinen Tuomas , Salava Alexander , Väkevä Liisa , Ranki Annamari , Söderlund-Venermo Maria
Published: May 2023

Cutavirus (CuV) is associated with cutaneous T-cell lymphoma (CTCL), of which parapsoriasis is a precursor. Our study reveals a significantly higher CuV-DNA prevalence in skin swabs of parapsoriasis patients (6/13; 46.2%) versus those of healthy adults (1/51; 1.96%). Eight patients (8/12; 66.7%) had CuV DNA in biopsied skin, and 4 developed CTCL.
Copeptin in autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease: real-world experiences from a large prospective cohort study
Authors: Arjune Sita , Oehm Simon , Todorova Polina , Gansevoort Ron T , Bakker Stephan J L , Erger Florian , Benzing Thomas , Burst Volker , Grundmann Franziska , Antczak Philipp , Müller Roman-Ulrich
Published: May 2023

Background

The identification of new biomarkers in autosomal-dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) is crucial to improve and simplify prognostic assessment as a basis for patient selection for targeted therapies. Post hoc analyses of the TEMPO 3:4 study indicated that copeptin could be one of those biomarkers.

Methods

Copeptin was tested in serum samples from patients of the AD(H)PKD study. Serum copeptin levels were measured using a time-resolved amplified cryptate emission (TRACE)-based assay. In total, we collected 711 values from 389 patients without tolvaptan treatment and a total of 243 values (of which 64 were pre-tolvaptan) from 94 patients on tolvaptan. These were associated with rapid progression and disease-causing gene variants and their predictive capacity tested and compared with the Mayo Classification.

Results

As expected, copeptin levels showed a significant negative correlation with estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR). Measurements on tolvaptan showed significantly higher copeptin levels (9.871 pmol/L vs 23.90 pmol/L at 90/30 mg; P < .0001) in all chronic kidney disease stages. Linear regression models (n = 133) show that copeptin is an independent predictor of eGFR slope. A clinical model (including eGFR, age, gender, copeptin) was nearly as good (R2 = 0.1196) as our optimal model (including height-adjusted total kidney volume, eGFR, copeptin, R2 = 0.1256). Adding copeptin to the Mayo model improved future eGFR estimation.

Conclusion

Copeptin levels are associated with kidney function and independently explained future eGFR slopes. As expected, treatment with tolvaptan strongly increases copeptin levels.
IgA Determines Bacterial Composition in the Gut
Authors: Gupta Suman , Gupta Sneh Lata , Singh Aashima , Oswal Neelam , Bal Vineeta , Rath Satyajit , George Anna , Basu Srijani
Published: May 2023

Background

Classically, IgA in the gut prevents the invasion of microorganisms to systemic organs through the process of neutralization and immune exclusion. Interestingly, recent reports suggest that IgA might help in biofilm formation and promote bacterial growth inside the intestine.

Methods

In this study, we used flow cytometry, ELISA, and chemical models of colitis to test whether the quality and quantity of IgA can select for bacterial persistence in the gut.

Results

We found that members of Proteobacteria, such as γ-Proteobacteria and SFB, are preferentially coated by IgA in WT mice. In the partial absence of either T-dependent or -independent IgA responses, there are no significant differences in the frequency of bacteria coated with IgA in mice. However, Rag−/− mice that lack all antibodies had a severe reduction in Proteobacteria and were resistant to DSS-induced colitis, suggesting that secretory IgA might be essential for differential retention of these taxa in the mouse gut. Rag−/− littermates in the F2 generation generated from (B6 × Rag−/−) F1 mice acquired the underrepresented bacteria taxa such as γ-Proteobacteria through vertical transmission of flora. They died soon after weaning, possibly due to the acquired flora. Additionally, continued exposure of Rag−/− mice to B6 flora by cohousing mice led to the acquisition of γ-Proteobacteria and mortality.

Conclusions

Together, our results indicate that host survival in the complete absence of an IgA response necessitates the exclusion of specific bacterial taxa from the gut microbiome.
The contribution to policies of an exposome-based approach to childhood obesity
Authors: Vineis Paolo , Handakas Evangelos , Alfano Rossella , Millett Christopher , Fecht Daniela , Chatzi Leda , Plusquin Michelle , Nawrot Tim , Richiardi Lorenzo , Barros Henrique , Vrijheid Martine , Sassi Franco , Robinson Oliver
Published: May 2023

Childhood obesity is an increasingly severe public health problem, with a prospective impact on health. We propose an exposome approach to identify actionable risk factors for this condition. Our assumption is that relationships between external exposures and outcomes such as rapid growth, overweight, or obesity in children can be better understood through a “meet-in-the-middle” model. This is based on a combination of external and internal exposome-based approaches, that is, the study of multiple exposures (in our case, dietary patterns) and molecular pathways (metabolomics and epigenetics). This may strengthen causal reasoning by identifying intermediate markers that are associated with both exposures and outcomes. Our biomarker-based studies in the STOP consortium suggest (in several ways, including mediation analysis) that branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) could be mediators of the effect of dietary risk factors on childhood overweight/obesity. This is consistent with intervention and animal studies showing that higher intake of BCAAs has a positive impact on body composition, glycemia, and satiety. Concerning food, of particular concern is the trend of increasing intake of ultra-processed food (UPF), including among children. Several mechanisms have been proposed to explain the impact of UPF on obesity and overweight, including nutrient intake (particularly proteins), changes in appetite, or the role of additives. Research from the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children cohort has shown a relationship between UPF intake and trajectories in childhood adiposity, while UPF was related to lower blood levels of BCAAs. We suggest that an exposome-based approach can help strengthening causal reasoning and support policies. Intake of UPF in children should be restricted to prevent obesity.
Relationships of GDF8 and 11 and Their Antagonists With Decline of Grip Strength Among Older Adults in the Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging
Authors: Yamaguchi Yuko , Zhu Min , Moaddel Ruin , Palchamy Elango , Ferrucci Luigi , Semba Richard D
Published: May 2023

Although growth/differentiation factor 11 (GDF11), growth/differentiation factor 8 (GDF8), and their circulating antagonists, which include GDF11 and GDF8 propeptides, follistatin (FST), WAP, Follistatin/Kazal, Immunoglobulin, Kunitz And Netrin Domain Containing (WFIKKN)1, and WFIKKN2, have been shown to influence skeletal muscle and aging in mice, the relationship of these circulating factors with human phenotypes is less clear. This study aimed to characterize the relationship between plasma GDF8, GDF11, FST, WFIKKN1, and WFIKKN2 concentrations with the decline of grip strength in 534 adults, ≥65 years, who participated in the Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging and had grip strength measured over time. Plasma GDF8 and GDF11 mature proteins, GDF8 and GDF11 propeptides, FST (isoform FST315 and cleaved form FST303), WFIKKN1, and WFIKKN2 concentrations were measured using selected reaction monitoring–tandem mass spectrometry at baseline. Grip strength was measured at baseline and at follow-up visits (median follow-up 8.87 years). Mean (standard deviation) grip strength declined in men and women by −0.84 (2.45) and −0.60 (1.32) kg/year, respectively. Plasma GDF8 and GDF11 mature proteins, GDF8 and GDF11 propeptides, FST315, FST303, WFIKKN1, and WFIKKN2 concentrations were not independently predictive of the decline of grip strength in men or women in multivariable linear regression analyses that adjusted for potential confounders. In conclusion, circulating GDF8, GDF11, and their antagonists do not appear to influence the decline of grip strength in older men or women.
Joseph Wulf and the Path Not Taken: The Turn from Writing Jewish History in Yiddish to Writing Nazi History in German
Authors: Smith Mark L
Published: May 2023

Before Joseph Wulf gained renown as a pioneering Holocaust historian in postwar Germany, he attempted to establish himself as a Holocaust historian in the Yiddish-speaking community of postwar France. In 1952, however, he left Paris and the world of his fellow survivors to settle in Berlin. Of the Holocaust survivors who turned to writing the Jewish history of the Holocaust in Yiddish immediately after World War II, only one—Wulf—turned yet again to become a German-language historian of the Nazis. The question is why. In addition to well-known personal factors, a close reading of Wulf’s Yiddish writings from 1946 to 1952 reveals the scholarly impetus for his departure: his approach to writing Holocaust history diverged in every significant respect from the already evolving norms of Yiddish Holocaust historiography—and pointed instead toward the new beginning he created for himself in Berlin. This article proposes, for the first time, to recover and discuss Wulf’s postwar Yiddish writings in the context of his contemporaries’ historical works in Yiddish.
Mid-term outcomes of non-resectional chordal foldoplasty for degenerative mitral regurgitation
Authors: Nakamura Ryota , Nakanaga Hiroshi , Fujii Hiromi , Tatsuki Suguru , Ota Mitsuhiko , Tabata Minoru
Published: May 2023

OBJECTIVES

We aimed to evaluate the mid-term clinical and echocardiographic outcomes of chordal foldoplasty performed for non-resectional mitral valve repair in degenerative mitral valve disease with a large posterior leaflet.

METHODS

We reviewed 82 patients undergoing non-resectional mitral valve repair via chordal foldoplasty between October 2013 and June 2021. We analysed operative outcomes, mid-term survival rate, freedom from reoperation and freedom from recurrent moderate or severe mitral regurgitation (MR).

RESULTS

The mean age of patients was 57.2 ± 12.4 years; 61 patients (74%) had posterior leaflet prolapse, 21 patients (26%) had bileaflet prolapse and all of them had at least 1 tall posterior leaflet scallop. Minimally invasive approach with a right mini-thoracotomy was used in 73 patients (89%). The operative mortality was zero. There was no conversion to mitral valve replacement and postoperative echocardiography revealed no more than mild residual regurgitation or systolic anterior motion. Five-year survival rate, freedom from mitral reoperation and freedom from recurrent moderate/severe MR were 93.9%, 97.4% and 94.5%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Non-resectional chordal foldoplasty is a simple and effective repair technique for select degenerative MR cases with a tall posterior leaflet.
Key Risk Genes Identified From the Postmortem Brain of Patients With Major Depressive Disorder and Their Potential Clinical Applications
Authors: Zhuang Qishuai , Wang Jingxian , Li Xiaobing , Zhang Xiaoning , Wang Yue
Published: May 2023

Background

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a type of emotional dysfunction, and its pathogenesis has not been fully elucidated. Specifically, the key molecules in depression-related brain regions involved in this disease and their contributions to this disease are currently unclear.

Methods

GSE53987 and GSE54568 were selected from the Gene Expression Omnibus database. The data were standardized to identify the common differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in the cortex of MDD patients in the 2 datasets. The DEGs were subjected to Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway analyses. The STRING database was used to build protein–protein interaction networks, and the cytoHubba plugin was used to identify hub genes. Furthermore, we selected another blood transcriptome dataset that included 161 MDD and 169 control samples to explore the changes in the screened hub genes. Mice were subjected to 4 weeks of chronic unpredictable mild stress to establish an animal model of depression, and the expression of these hub genes in tissues of the prefrontal cortex was then detected by quantitative real time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). We subsequently predicted the possible posttranscriptional regulatory networks and traditional Chinese medicine according to the hub genes using a few online databases.

Results

The analysis identified 147 upregulated genes and 402 downregulated genes were identified in the cortex of MDD patients compared with that of the controls. Enrichment analyses revealed that DEGs were predominantly enriched in synapse-related cell functions, linoleic acid metabolism, and other pathways. Protein–protein interaction analysis identified 20 hub genes based on the total score. The changes in KDM6B, CUX2, NAAA, PHKB, NFYA, GTF2H1, CRK, CCNG2, ACER3, and SLC4A2 in the peripheral blood of MDD patients were consistent with those in the brain. Furthermore, the prefrontal cortex of mice with depressive-like behaviors showed significantly increased Kdm6b, Aridb1, Scaf11, and Thoc2 expression and decreased Ccng2 expression compared with that of normal mice, which was consistent with the results found for the human brain. Potential therapeutic candidates, such as citron, fructus citri, leaves of Panax Notoginseng, sanchi flower, pseudoginseng, and dan-shen root, were selected via traditional Chinese medicine screening.

Conclusions

This study identified several novel hub genes in specific brain regions involved in the pathogenesis of MDD, which may not only deepen our understanding of depression but may also provide new ideas for its diagnosis and treatment.
Exploring the prevalence of antibiotic resistance patterns and drivers of antibiotics resistance of Salmonella in livestock and poultry-derived foods: a systematic review and meta-analysis in Bangladesh from 2000 to 2022
Authors: Ripon Rezaul Karim , Motahara Umma , Ahmed Ayesha , Devnath Nishrita , Mahua Fatema Akter , Hashem Rubaiya Binthe , Ishadi Kifayat Sadmam , Alam Adiba , Sujan Md Safaet Hossain , Sarker Md Samun
Published: May 2023

Background

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a severe public health problem that Bangladeshis are dealing with nowadays. However, we wanted to investigate the pooled prevalence of Salmonella and AMR in Salmonella strains isolated from livestock- and poultry-derived foods between 1 January 2000 and 31 August 2022.

Methods

The metafor and metareg packages in the R programming language were used to conduct all analyses. We used a random-effect or fixed-effect model for pooled prevalence of Salmonella and AMR to Salmonella, depending on the heterogeneity test for each antibiotic. The heterogeneity was examined using stratified analyses, the meta-regression approach and sensitivity analysis.

Results

The combined prevalence of Salmonella in livestock and poultry-derived food in Bangladesh is 37%, according to the 12-research considered (95% CI: 23%–52%). According to subgroup analysis, neomycin had the lowest prevalence of resistance (4%, 95% CI: 1%–13%), whereas tetracycline had the highest prevalence of resistance (81%, 95% CI: 53%–98%). According to univariate meta-analysis and correlation analysis, the prevalence of Salmonella increased with the study period (β = 0.0179; 95% CI: 0.0059–0.0298, P = 0.0034; R2 = 46.11%) and without this, none of aforementioned variables was significantly associated with the detected heterogeneity and there was a positive relationship (r = 0.692, P = 0.001) between the Salmonella prevalence and study period.

Conclusions

AMR is rising alarmingly in Bangladesh by livestock-derived food consumption. However, monitoring and evaluating antibiotic sensitivity trends and developing effective antibiotic regimens may improve Salmonella infection inhibition and control in Bangladesh. Policymakers should be concerned about food handling practices. Doctors should be concerned when using prescribing antibiotics.
Transient receptor potential vanilloid 4 (TRPV4) in neutrophils enhances myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury
Authors: Wu Yuwei , Lu Kai , Lu Yang , Liao Jie , Zhang Shaoshao , Yang Shuaitao , Zhao Ning , Dong Qian , Chen Lei , Wu Qiongfeng , Du Yimei
Published: May 2023

The Ca2+-permeable TRPV4 cation channel is expressed in neutrophils and contributes to myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury. Here we tested the hypotheses that TRPV4 promotes neutrophil activation and subsequently aggregates myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury. TRPV4 protein was confirmed in neutrophils, and its function was assessed by the current and intracellular Ca2+ concentration elevations evoked by TRPV4 agonists. Furthermore, TRPV4 agonists dose-dependently promoted migration toward fMLP, reactive oxygen species production, and myeloperoxidase release, which were prevented by pretreatment with a selective TRPV4 antagonist, in neutrophils from TRPV4 knockout mice, Ca2+-free medium, or BAPTA-AM + Ca2+-free medium. Blockade of TRPV4 also inhibited the effects of commonly used neutrophil activators fMLP and PMA. Mechanically, TRPV4 regulated neutrophil activation, particularly reactive oxygen species production, by affecting PKCα, P38, and AKT via Ca2+ signaling. In addition, isolated hearts infused with neutrophils from wild-type mice showed additional myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injuries but not those infused with TRPV4 knockout. Our study reveals that TRPV4-mediated neutrophil activation enhances myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury, and it might be a novel therapeutic target for myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury and other neutrophil-mediated inflammatory diseases.
Extracellular matrix remodelling in obesity and metabolic disorders
Authors: Musale Vishal , Wasserman David H , Kang Li
Published: May 2023

Obesity causes extracellular matrix (ECM) remodelling which can develop into serious pathology and fibrosis, having metabolic effects in insulin-sensitive tissues. The ECM components may be increased in response to overnutrition. This review will focus on specific obesity-associated molecular and pathophysiological mechanisms of ECM remodelling and the impact of specific interactions on tissue metabolism. In obesity, a complex network of signalling molecules such as cytokines and growth factors has been implicated in fibrosis. Increased ECM deposition contributes to the pathogenesis of insulin resistance at least in part through the activation of cell surface integrin receptors and CD44 signalling cascades. These cell surface receptors transmit signals to the cell adhesome which orchestrates an intracellular response that adapts to the extracellular environment. Matrix proteins, glycoproteins, and polysaccharides interact through ligand-specific cell surface receptors that interact with the cytosolic adhesion proteins to elicit specific actions. Cell adhesion proteins may have catalytic activity or serve as scaffolds. The vast number of cell surface receptors and the complexity of the cell adhesome have made study of their roles challenging in health and disease. Further complicating the role of ECM-cell receptor interactions is the variation between cell types. This review will focus on recent insights gained from studies of two highly conserved, ubiquitous axes and how they contribute to insulin resistance and metabolic dysfunction in obesity. These are the collagen-integrin receptor-IPP (ILK-PINCH-Parvin) axis and the hyaluronan-CD44 interaction. We speculate that targeting ECM components or their receptor-mediated cell signalling may provide novel insights into the treatment of obesity-associated cardiometabolic complications.
Kettle logic in abstract argumentation
Authors: Kampik Timotheus
Published: May 2023

Kettle logic is a colloquial term that describes an agent’s advancement of inconsistent arguments in order to defeat a particular claim. Intuitively, a consistent subset of the advanced arguments should exist that is at least as successful at refuting the claim as the advancement of the set of inconsistent arguments. In this paper, we formalize this intuition and provide a formal analysis of kettle logic in abstract argumentation, a fundamental approach to computational argumentation, showing that all of the analysed abstract argumentation semantics (inference functions)—with the exception of naive semantics, which is considered a mere simplistic helper for the construction of other semantics—suffer from kettle logic. We also provide an approach to mitigating kettle logic under some circumstances. The key findings presented in this paper highlight that agents that apply the inference functions of abstract argumentation, are—similarly to humans—receptive to persuasion by agents who deliberately advance inconsistent and intuitively ‘illogical’ claims. As abstract argumentation can be considered one of the most basic models of computational argumentation, this raises the question to what extent and under what circumstances kettle logic-free argumentation can and should be enforced by computational means.
Origin of neutron-capture elements with the Gaia-ESO survey: the evolution of s- and r-process elements across the Milky Way
Authors: Molero Marta , Magrini Laura , Matteucci Francesca , Romano Donatella , Palla Marco , Cescutti Gabriele , Vázquez Carlos Viscasillas , Spitoni Emanuele
Published: May 2023

We investigate the origin of neutron-capture elements by analysing their abundance patterns and radial gradients in the Galactic thin disc. We adopt a detailed two-infall chemical evolution model for the Milky Way, including state-of-the-art nucleosynthesis prescriptions for neutron-capture elements. We consider r-process nucleosynthesis from merging neutron stars (MNS) and magneto-rotational supernovae (MR-SNe), and s-process synthesis from low- and intermediate-mass stars (LIMS) and rotating massive stars. The predictions of our model are compared with data from the sixth data release of the Gaia-ESO survey, from which we consider 62 open clusters with age ≳ 0.1 Gyr and ∼1300 Milky Way disc field stars. We conclude that: (i) the [Eu/Fe] versus [Fe/H] diagram is reproduced by both prompt and delayed sources, with the prompt source dominating Eu production; (ii) rotation in massive stars significantly contributes to the first peak s-process elements, but MNS and MR-SNe are necessary to match the observations; and (iii) our model slightly underpredicts Mo and Nd, while accurately reproducing the [Pr/Fe] versus [Fe/H] trend. Regarding the radial gradients, we find that: (i) our predicted [Fe/H] gradient slope agrees with observations from Gaia-ESO and other high-resolution spectroscopic surveys; (ii) the predicted [Eu/H] radial gradient slope is steeper than the observed one, regardless of how quick the production of Eu is, prompting discussion on different Galaxy-formation scenarios and stellar radial migration effects; and (iii) elements in the second s-process peak as well as Nd and Pr exhibit a plateau at low-Galactocentric distances, likely due to enhanced enrichment from LIMS in the inner regions.
Meteor cluster event indication in variable-length astronomical video sequences
Authors: Bednář Jan , Krauz Lukáš , Páta Petr , Koten Pavel
Published: May 2023

In recent years, the study of parallel or cluster meteor events has become increasingly popular. Many imaging systems currently focus on meteor detection, but the algorithms exploiting the data from such systems do not investigate the probability of cluster or parallel meteor events. This paper presents a novel approach to indicate a potential meteor cluster or parallel meteor event based on variable-length astronomical video sequences. The presented algorithm consists of two main parts: meteor event pre-detection and meteor cluster event probability evaluation. The first part of the algorithm involves a meteor pre-detection method based on the Hough transform and the exact event location within the time domain. In addition to pre-detecting meteor events, the method outputs event trajectory parameters that are further exploited in a second part of the algorithm. This subsequent part of the algorithm then operates over these meteor trajectory parameters and indicates the probability of cluster occurrence. The algorithm is experimentally evaluated on video sequences generated by the Meteor Automatic Imager and Analyzer (MAIA) astronomical imaging system, covering the Draconid and September ϵ Perseid meteor showers. Compared to the current MAIA meteor detection software, the proposed part of the pre-detection algorithm shows promising results, especially the increased rate of correct meteor detection. The meteor cluster evaluation part of the algorithm then demonstrates its ability to successfully select related meteor event candidates (disintegrated from the same parental object) and reject unrelated ones.
Phenomenological power spectrum models for H α emission line galaxies from the Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope
Authors: McCarthy Kevin S , Zhai Zhongxu , Wang Yun
Published: May 2023

The High Latitude Spectroscopic Survey (HLSS) is the reference baseline spectroscopic survey for NASA’s Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope, measuring redshifts of ∼10M H α emission line galaxies over a 2000 deg2 footprint at z = 1–2. In this work, we use a realistic Roman galaxy mock catalogue to explore optimal phenomenological modelling of the measured power spectrum. We consider two methods for modelling the redshift-space distortions (Kaiser squashing and another with a window function on β that selects out the coherent radial infall pairwise velocities, $\mathcal {M}_A$ and $\mathcal {M}_B$, respectively), two models for the non-linear impact of baryons that smear the baryon acoustic oscillation signal (a fixed ratio between the smearing scales in the perpendicular and parallel dimensions and another where these smearing scales are kept as free parameters, Pdw(k|k*) and Pdw(k|Σ⊥, Σ∥), respectively), and two analytical emulations of non-linear growth (one employing the halo model and another formulated from simulated galaxy clustering of a semi-analytical model, $\mathcal {F}_{HM}$ and $\mathcal {F}_{\it SAM}$, respectively). We find that the best model combination employing $\mathcal {F}_{HM}$ is $P_{dw}(k|k_*)*\mathcal {F}_{HM}*\mathcal {M}_B$, while the best combination employing $\mathcal {F}_{\it SAM}$ is $P_{dw}(k|k_*)*\mathcal {F}_{\it SAM}*\mathcal {M}_B$, which leads to unbiased measurements of cosmological parameters. We compare these to the Effective Field Theory of Large-Scale Structure perturbation theory model PEFT(k|Θ), and find that our simple phenomenological models are comparable across the entire redshift range for kmax = 0.25 and 0.3 h Mpc−1. We expect the tools that we have developed to be useful in probing dark energy and testing gravity using Roman in an accurate and robust manner.
Current status and future challenges of genotoxicity OECD Test Guidelines for nanomaterials: a workshop report
Authors: Doak Shareen H , Andreoli Cristina , Burgum Michael J , Chaudhry Qasim , Bleeker Eric A J , Bossa Cecilia , Domenech Josefa , Drobne Damjana , Fessard Valérie , Jeliazkova Nina , Longhin Eleonora , Rundén-Pran Elise , Stępnik Maciej , El Yamani Naouale , Catalán Julia , Dusinska Maria
Published: May 2023

Genotoxicity testing for nanomaterials remains challenging as standard testing approaches require some adaptation, and further development of nano-specific OECD Test Guidelines (TGs) and Guidance Documents (GDs) are needed. However, the field of genotoxicology continues to progress and new approach methodologies (NAMs) are being developed that could provide relevant information on the range of mechanisms of genotoxic action that may be imparted by nanomaterials. There is a recognition of the need for implementation of new and/or adapted OECD TGs, new OECD GDs, and utilization of NAMs within a genotoxicity testing framework for nanomaterials. As such, the requirements to apply new experimental approaches and data for genotoxicity assessment of nanomaterials in a regulatory context is neither clear, nor used in practice. Thus, an international workshop with representatives from regulatory agencies, industry, government, and academic scientists was convened to discuss these issues. The expert discussion highlighted the current deficiencies that exist in standard testing approaches within exposure regimes, insufficient physicochemical characterization, lack of demonstration of cell or tissue uptake and internalization, and limitations in the coverage of genotoxic modes of action. Regarding the latter aspect, a consensus was reached on the importance of using NAMs to support the genotoxicity assessment of nanomaterials. Also highlighted was the need for close engagement between scientists and regulators to (i) provide clarity on the regulatory needs, (ii) improve the acceptance and use of NAM-generated data, and (iii) define how NAMs may be used as part of weight of evidence approaches for use in regulatory risk assessments.
Long-Distance Electrical and Calcium Signals Evoked by Hydrogen Peroxide in Physcomitrella
Authors: Koselski Mateusz , Hoernstein Sebastian N. W , Wasko Piotr , Reski Ralf , Trebacz Kazimierz
Published: May 2023

Electrical and calcium signals in plants are some of the basic carriers of information that are transmitted over a long distance. Together with reactive oxygen species (ROS) waves, electrical and calcium signals can participate in cell-to-cell signaling, conveying information about different stimuli, e.g. abiotic stress, pathogen infection or mechanical injury. There is no information on the ability of ROS to evoke systemic electrical or calcium signals in the model moss Physcomitrella nor on the relationships between these responses. Here, we show that the external application of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) evokes electrical signals in the form of long-distance changes in the membrane potential, which transmit through the plant instantly after stimulation. The responses were calcium-dependent since their generation was inhibited by lanthanum, a calcium channel inhibitor (2 mM), and EDTA, a calcium chelator (0.5 mM). The electrical signals were partially dependent on glutamate receptor (GLR) ion channels since knocking-out the GLR genes only slightly reduced the amplitude of the responses. The basal part of the gametophyte, which is rich in protonema cells, was the most sensitive to H2O2. The measurements carried out on the protonema expressing fluorescent calcium biosensor GCaMP3 proved that calcium signals propagated slowly (>5 µm/s) and showed a decrement. We also demonstrate upregulation of a stress-related gene that appears in a distant section of the moss 8 min after the H2O2 treatment. The results help understand the importance of both types of signals in the transmission of information about the appearance of ROS in the plant cell apoplast.
Pore formation driven by particle impact in laser powder-blown directed energy deposition
Authors: Webster Samantha , Moser Newell , Fezzaa Kamel , Sun Tao , Ehmann Kornel , Garboczi Edward , Cao Jian
Published: May 2023

Process defects currently limit the use of metal additive manufacturing (AM) components in industries due to shorter fatigue life, potential for catastrophic failure, and lower strength. Conditions under which these defects form, and their mechanisms, are starting to be analyzed to improve reliability and structural integrity of these highly customized parts. We use in situ, high-speed X-ray imaging in conjunction with a high throughput laser, powder-blown directed energy deposition setup to observe powder particle impact behavior within the melt pool. Through fundamental observations of the stochastic, violent powder delivery in powder-blown DED, we uncover a unique pore formation mechanism. We find that a pore can form due to air-cushioning, where vapor from the carrier gas or environment is entrapped between the solid powder particle surface and liquid melt pool surface. A critical time constant is established for the mechanism, and X-ray computed tomography is used to further analyze and categorize the new type of “air-cushioning” pores. It is shown that the air-cushioning mechanism can occur under multiple laser processing conditions, and we show that air-cushioning pores are more likely to be formed when powder particles are larger than 70 μm. By quantifying the effect of powder particle impact, we identify new avenues for development of high-quality laser, powder-blown DED products. Furthermore, we deepen knowledge on defect formation in metal additive manufacturing, which is being increasingly utilized in high performance situations such as aerospace, automotive, and biomedical industries.