bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In Search of Lost Haim: Homer and Heimat in the Dialectic of Enlightenment
Authors: Youd David
Published: May 2023

In this essay, I return to Horkheimer and Adorno’s reading of the Odyssey in the Dialectic of Enlightenment to suggest that Odysseus’s crew comes to figure ‘the Jew’ as a representative of nature in the antisemitic Imaginary—the nature that enlightenment continues to repress. Escape from enlightenment’s deadlock will depend on the ‘remembrance’ of that nature, an operation itself considered ‘Jewish’ and enacted in the epic’s dialectical form.
Monocyte heterogeneity in cardiovascular disease
Authors: Ruder Adele V , Wetzels Suzan M W , Temmerman Lieve , Biessen Erik A L , Goossens Pieter
Published: May 2023

Monocytes circulate the vasculature at steady state and are recruited to sites of inflammation where they differentiate into macrophages (MФ) to replenish tissue-resident MФ populations and engage in the development of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Monocytes display considerable heterogeneity, currently reflected by a nomenclature based on their expression of cluster of differentiation (CD) 14 and CD16, distinguishing CD14++CD16− classical (cMo), CD14++CD16+ intermediate (intMo) and CD14+CD16++ non-classical (ncMo) monocytes. Several reports point to shifted subset distributions in the context of CVD, with significant association of intMo numbers with atherosclerosis, myocardial infarction, and heart failure. However, clear indications of their causal involvement as well as their predictive value for CVD are lacking.

As recent high-parameter cytometry and single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-Seq) studies suggest an even higher degree of heterogeneity, better understanding of the functionalities of these subsets is pivotal. Considering their high heterogeneity, surprisingly little is known about functional differences between MФ originating from monocytes belonging to different subsets, and implications thereof for CVD pathogenesis. This paper provides an overview of recent findings on monocyte heterogeneity in the context of homeostasis and disease as well as functional differences between the subsets and their potential to differentiate into MФ, focusing on their role in vessels and the heart. The emerging paradigm of monocyte heterogeneity transcending the current tripartite subset division argues for an updated nomenclature and functional studies to substantiate marker-based subdivision and to clarify subset-specific implications for CVD.
Nedd4-2 up-regulation is associated with ACE2 ubiquitination in hypertension
Authors: Mohammed Mazher , Ogunlade Blessing , Elgazzaz Mona , Berdasco Clara , Lakkappa Navya , Ghita Ioana , Guidry Jessie J , Sriramula Srinivas , Xu Jiaxi , Restivo Luke , Mendiola Plá Michelle A , Bowles Dawn E , Beyer Andreas M , Yue Xinping , Lazartigues Eric , Filipeanu Catalin M
Published: May 2023

Aims

Angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) is a critical component of the compensatory renin–angiotensin system that is down-regulated during the development of hypertension, possibly via ubiquitination. However, little is known about the mechanisms involved in ACE2 ubiquitination in neurogenic hypertension. This study aimed at identifying ACE2 ubiquitination partners, establishing causal relationships and clinical relevance, and testing a gene therapy strategy to mitigate ACE2 ubiquitination in neurogenic hypertension.

Methods and results

Bioinformatics and proteomics were combined to identify E3 ubiquitin ligases associated with ACE2 ubiquitination in chronically hypertensive mice. In vitro gain/loss of function experiments assessed ACE2 expression and activity to validate the interaction between ACE2 and the identified E3 ligase. Mutation experiments were further used to generate a ubiquitination-resistant ACE2 mutant (ACE2-5R). Optogenetics, blood pressure telemetry, pharmacological blockade of GABAA receptors in mice expressing ACE2-5R in the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BNST), and capillary western analysis were used to assess the role of ACE2 ubiquitination in neurogenic hypertension. Ubiquitination was first validated as leading to ACE2 down-regulation, and Neural precursor cell-expressed developmentally down-regulated protein 4-2 (Nedd4-2) was identified as a E3 ligase up-regulated in hypertension and promoting ACE2 ubiquitination. Mutation of lysine residues in the C-terminal of ACE2 was associated with increased activity and resistance to angiotensin (Ang)-II-mediated degradation. Mice transfected with ACE2-5R in the BNST exhibited enhanced GABAergic input to the paraventricular nucleus (PVN) and a reduction in hypertension. ACE2-5R expression was associated with reduced Nedd4-2 levels in the BNST.

Conclusion

Our data identify Nedd4-2 as the first E3 ubiquitin ligase involved in ACE2 ubiquitination in Ang-II-mediated hypertension. We demonstrate the pivotal role of ACE2 on GABAergic neurons in the maintenance of an inhibitory tone to the PVN and the regulation of pre-sympathetic activity. These findings provide a new working model where Nedd4-2 could contribute to ACE2 ubiquitination, leading to the development of neurogenic hypertension and highlighting potential novel therapeutic strategies.
Positive fungal interactions are key drivers in Antarctic endolithic microcosms at the boundaries for life sustainability
Authors: Biagioli Federico , Coleine Claudia , Buzzini Pietro , Turchetti Benedetta , Sannino Ciro , Selbmann Laura
Published: May 2023

In the ice-free areas of Victoria Land in continental Antarctica, where the conditions reach the limits for life sustainability, highly adapted and extreme-tolerant microbial communities exploit the last habitable niches inside porous rocks (i.e. cryptoendolithic communities). These guilds host the main standing biomass and principal, if not sole, contributors to environmental/biogeochemical cycles, driving ecosystem processes and functionality in these otherwise dead lands. Although knowledge advances on their composition, ecology, genomic and metabolic features, a large-scale perspective of occurring interactions and interconnections within and between endolithic fungal assemblages is still lacking to date. Unravelling the tight relational network among functional guilds in the Antarctic cryptoendolithic communities may represent a main task. Aiming to fill this knowledge gap, we performed a correlation-network analysis based on amplicon-sequencing data of 74 endolithic microbiomes collected throughout Victoria Land. Endolithic communities' compositional pattern was largely dominated by Lichenized fungi group (83.5%), mainly represented by Lecanorales and Lecideales, followed by Saprotrophs (14.2%) and RIF+BY (2.4%) guilds led by Tremellales and Capnodiales respectively. Our findings highlighted that fungal functional guilds' relational spectrum was dominated by cooperative interactions led by lichenised and black fungi, deeply engaged in community trophic sustain and protection, respectively. On the other hand, a few negative correlations found may help in preserving niche boundaries between microbes living in such strict spatial association.
Detecting and excluding disturbed forest areas improves site index determination using bitemporal airborne laser scanner data
Authors: Moan Maria Å , Noordermeer Lennart , White Joanne C , Coops Nicholas C , Bollandsås Ole M
Published: May 2023

Bitemporal airborne laser scanning (ALS) data are increasingly being used in forest management inventories for the determination of site index (SI). SI determination using bitemporal ALS data requires undisturbed height growth of dominant trees. Therefore, areas with disturbed top height development are unsuitable for SI determination, and should be identified and omitted before modelling, predicting and estimating SI using bitemporal ALS data. The aim of this study was to explore methods for classifying the suitability of forest areas for SI determination based on bitemporal ALS data. The modelling approaches k-nearest neighbour, logistic regression and random forest were compared for classifying disturbed (at least one dominant tree has disappeared) and undisturbed plots. A forest inventory with plot re-measurements and corresponding bitemporal ALS data from the Petawawa Research Forest in Ontario, Canada, was used as a case study. Based on the field data, two definitions of a disturbed plot were developed: (1) at least one dominant tree had died, was harvested or had fallen during the observation period, or (2) at least one dominant tree was harvested or had fallen during the observation period. The first definition included standing dead trees, which we hypothesized would be more difficult to accurately classify from bitemporal ALS data. Models of disturbance definition 1 and 2 yielded Matthews correlation coefficients of 0.46–0.59 and 0.62–0.80, respectively. Fit statistics of SI prediction models fitted to undisturbed plots were significantly better (P < 0.05) than fit statistics of SI prediction models fitted to all plots. Our results show that bitemporal ALS data can be used to separate disturbed from undisturbed forest areas with moderate to high accuracy in complex temperate mixedwood forests and that excluding disturbed forest areas significantly improves fit statistics of SI prediction models.
A Simple Nomogram for Predicting Hospital Mortality of Patients Over 80 Years in ICU: An International Multicenter Retrospective Study
Authors: Liu Chao , Liu Xiaoli , Hu Mei , Mao Zhi , Zhou Yibo , Peng Jinyu , Geng Xiaodong , Chi Kun , Hong Quan , Cao Desen , Sun Xuefeng , Zhang Zhengbo , Zhou Feihu
Published: May 2023

Objectives

This study aimed to develop and validate an easy-to-use intensive care unit (ICU) illness scoring system to evaluate the in-hospital mortality for very old patients (VOPs, over 80 years old).

Methods

We performed a multicenter retrospective study based on the electronic ICU (eICU) Collaborative Research Database (eICU-CRD), Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care Database (MIMIC-III CareVue and MIMIC-IV), and the Amsterdam University Medical Centers Database (AmsterdamUMCdb). Least Absolute Shrinkage and Selection Operator regression was applied to variables selection. The logistic regression algorithm was used to develop the risk score and a nomogram was further generated to explain the score.

Results

We analyzed 23 704 VOPs, including 3 726 deaths (10 183 [13.5% mortality] from eICU-CRD [development set], 12 703 [17.2%] from the MIMIC, and 818 [20.8%] from the AmsterdamUMC [external validation sets]). Thirty-four variables were extracted on the first day of ICU admission, and 10 variables were finally chosen including Glasgow Coma Scale, shock index, respiratory rate, partial pressure of carbon dioxide, lactate, mechanical ventilation (yes vs no), oxygen saturation, Charlson Comorbidity Index, blood urea nitrogen, and urine output. The nomogram was developed based on the 10 variables (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve: training of 0.792, testing of 0.788, MIMIC of 0.764, and AmsterdamUMC of 0.808 [external validating]), which consistently outperformed the Sequential Organ Failure Assessment, acute physiology score III, and simplified acute physiology score II.

Conclusions

We developed and externally validated a nomogram for predicting mortality in VOPs based on 10 commonly measured variables on the first day of ICU admission. It could be a useful tool for clinicians to identify potentially high risks of VOPs.
Model order reduction for seismic waveform modelling: inspiration from normal modes
Authors: Hawkins R , Khalid M H , Smetana K , Trampert J
Published: May 2023

The computational cost of full waveform simulation in seismological contexts is known to be expensive and generally requires large clusters of computers working in parallel. Although there have been many methods proposed over recent years to reduce this burden, in this work, we focus on a particular method called model order reduction (MOR) whereby a full waveform system of equations is projected onto a lower dimensional space to reduce computational and memory requirements at the cost of introducing approximation errors. In this paper, inspired by normal mode (NM) theory, we use the eigenmodes of the seismic wave equation to span this lower dimensional space. From this we argue that NM theory can be seen as an early form of MOR. Using this as inspiration, we demonstrate how free body oscillations and a form of Petrov–Galerkin projection can be applied in regional scale problems utilizing recent advanced eigensolvers to create a MOR scheme. We also demonstrate how this can be applied to inverse problems. We further conjecture that MOR will have an important role to play in future full waveform applications, particularly those of a time-critical nature such as seismic hazard monitoring.
P- and S-wave energy current density vectors dot product imaging condition of source time-reversal imaging
Authors: Hu Nan , Zhang Wei , Xu Jincheng , Yang Hui , Li Yanpeng
Published: May 2023

Source time-reversal imaging (TRI) based on decoupled elastic wave equation can utilize vector P- and S-wave time differences and achieve high-precision source location in complex geological models. The imaging condition is critical for TRI. However, because of the orthogonally polarized properties of P and S waves, traditional vector dot product imaging condition directly applied to TRI will decrease the effective imaging values. In contrast, the energy current density vectors of P and S waves represent the propagation directions of the wavefields and are almost parallel. Their dot product can result in the maximum imaging energy. Based on this principle, we propose a P- and S-wave energy current density vectors dot product imaging condition (PSEDPIC), which uses the propagation direction information of P and S waves at the source point to suppress imaging artefacts generated by waves with inconsistent propagation directions. Numerical tests reveal that PSEDPIC can (1) reduce the image artefacts, (2) improve the imaging spatial resolution and (3) allow a shallower imaging region. In addition, if the numerical simulation algorithm used in TRI can reconstruct the seismic wavefield accurately in the presence of surface topography, the impact of an observation system with elevation differences on imaging can be eliminated automatically. For this reason, we use the curvilinear grid finite-difference method to directly reconstruct the wavefield in TRI to solve the problem of data elevation correction. The test results of 3-D synthetic and field data for microseismic monitoring demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Influence of trailing edge curve on the performance of radial turbine in turbocharger
Authors: Yun Jeong-Eui , Atac Omer Faruk , Kim Jung-Bae , Kim Gi-Yong
Published: May 2023

To combat climate change and promote sustainable engine development, the optimization of the turbocharger development process is necessary to decrease emissions and increase fuel economy. This article presents the influence of trailing edge curves on the performance of the significantly small radial turbine impeller of an automotive turbocharger used in a 0.8-l two-cylinder gasoline engine by comparing numerical analysis results under two boundary conditions: a constant pressure ratio and constant mass flow rate. The curve of a trailing edge depends on several parameters; however, in this study, the exponent ($n$) was selected to modify the turbine impeller trailing edge profile, as it exhibits a more significant influence on the curve than other parameters. Hence, computational fluid dynamics analyses were conducted on the radial turbine for various trailing edge curves under a constant pressure ratio and constant mass flow rate, and the results were compared. The results indicated that the efficiency improvement was negligible under the pressure ratio and mass flow rate conditions due to inadequate alterations. Nevertheless, a significant shaft power improvement was observed based on changes in the trailing edge curve under a constant pressure ratio. In contrast, the same changes caused a considerable decrease in the shaft power under a constant mass flow rate.
On the Algebraicity of Polyquadratic Plectic Points
Authors: Fornea Michele , Gehrmann Lennart
Published: May 2023

We establish direct evidence of the arithmetic significance of plectic Stark–Heegner points for elliptic curves of arbitrarily large rank. The main contribution is a proof of the algebraicity of plectic points associated to polyquadratic CM extensions of totally real number fields. Moreover, we relate the non-vanishing of plectic points to analytic and algebraic ranks of elliptic curves.
Reduced Exercise Capacity, Chronotropic Incompetence, and Early Systemic Inflammation in Cardiopulmonary Phenotype Long Coronavirus Disease 2019
Authors: Durstenfeld Matthew S , Peluso Michael J , Kaveti Punita , Hill Christopher , Li Danny , Sander Erica , Swaminathan Shreya , Arechiga Victor M , Lu Scott , Goldberg Sarah A , Hoh Rebecca , Chenna Ahmed , Yee Brandon C , Winslow John W , Petropoulos Christos J , Kelly J Daniel , Glidden David V , Henrich Timothy J , Martin Jeffrey N , Lee Yoo Jin , Aras Mandar A , Long Carlin S , Grandis Donald J , Deeks Steven G , Hsue Priscilla Y
Published: May 2023

Background

Mechanisms underlying persistent cardiopulmonary symptoms after severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection (postacute sequelae of coronavirus disease 2019 [COVID-19; PASC] or “long COVID”) remain unclear. This study sought to elucidate mechanisms of cardiopulmonary symptoms and reduced exercise capacity.

Methods

We conducted cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET), cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR) and ambulatory rhythm monitoring among adults >1 year after SARS-CoV-2 infection, compared those with and those without symptoms, and correlated findings with previously measured biomarkers.

Results

Sixty participants (median age, 53 years; 42% female; 87% nonhospitalized; median 17.6 months after infection) were studied. At CPET, 18/37 (49%) with symptoms had reduced exercise capacity (<85% predicted), compared with 3/19 (16%) without symptoms (P = .02). The adjusted peak oxygen consumption (VO2) was 5.2 mL/kg/min lower (95% confidence interval, 2.1–8.3; P = .001) or 16.9% lower percent predicted (4.3%-29.6%; P = .02) among those with symptoms. Chronotropic incompetence was common. Inflammatory markers and antibody levels early in PASC were negatively correlated with peak VO2. Late-gadolinium enhancement on CMR and arrhythmias were absent.

Conclusions

Cardiopulmonary symptoms >1 year after COVID-19 were associated with reduced exercise capacity, which was associated with earlier inflammatory markers. Chronotropic incompetence may explain exercise intolerance among some with “long COVID.”
CRISPR Correction of the GBA Mutation in Human-Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells Restores Normal Function to Gaucher Macrophages and Increases Their Susceptibility to Mycobacterium tuberculosis
Authors: Ramalingam Sivaprakash , Kumar Amit , Krug Stefanie , Mohan Harikrishnan , Rao Desirazu N , Bishai William R , Chandrasegaran Srinivasan
Published: May 2023

Gaucher disease (GD) is an autosomal recessive lysosomal storage disorder caused by mutations in the β-glucocerebrosidase (GCase) GBA gene, which result in macrophage dysfunction. CRISPR (clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats) editing of the homozygous L444P (1448T→C) GBA mutation in type 2 GD (GBA−/−) human-induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) yielded both heterozygous (GBA+/−) and homozygous (GBA+/+) isogenic lines. Macrophages derived from GBA−/−, GBA+/− and GBA+/+ hiPSCs showed that GBA mutation correction restores normal macrophage functions: GCase activity, motility, and phagocytosis. Furthermore, infection of GBA−/−, GBA+/− and GBA+/+ macrophages with the Mycobacterium tuberculosis H37Rv strain showed that impaired mobility and phagocytic activity were correlated with reduced levels of bacterial engulfment and replication suggesting that GD may be protective against tuberculosis.
Impact of Dietary Quality on Genital Oncogenic Human Papillomavirus Infection in Women
Authors: Lin Hui-Yi , Fu Qiufan , Tseng Tung-sung , Zhu Xiaodan , Reiss Krzysztof , Joseph Su L , Hagensee Michael E
Published: May 2023

Background

Most cervical cancers are directly linked to oncogenic or high-risk human papillomavirus (HR-HPV) infection. This study evaluates associations between diet quality and genital HPV infection in women.

Methods

This study included 10 543 women from the 2003–2016 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. The outcome was the genital HPV infection status (HPV-negative, low-risk [LR] HPV, and HR-HPV). Dietary quality was evaluated using the Healthy Eating Index (HEI), in which a higher score indicates a better diet quality.

Results

Women who did not consume total fruits (15.8%), whole fruits (27.5%), or green vegetables and beans (43%) had a significantly higher risk of HR-HPV infection than women who complied with the Dietary Guidelines for Americans (HR-HPV odds ratio = 1.76, 1.63, and 1.48 for a HEI score of 0 vs 5, respectively) after adjusting confounding factors. Similar results of these food components on LR-HPV infection were found. In addition, intake of whole grains and dairy was inversely associated with LR-HPV infection.

Conclusions

This study showed that women who did not eat fruits, dark-green vegetables, and beans had a higher risk of genital HR-HPV infection. Intake of these food components is suggested for women to prevent HPV carcinogenesis.
Osteopontin Is an Integral Mediator of Cardiac Interstitial Fibrosis in Models of Human Immunodeficiency Virus Infection
Authors: Robinson Jake A , Mahmud Farina J , Greif Elizabeth , Toribio Mabel , Zanni Markella V , Brown Amanda M , Burdo Tricia H
Published: May 2023

Background

People with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) have heightened incidence/risk of diastolic dysfunction and heart failure. Women with HIV have elevated cardiac fibrosis, and plasma osteopontin (Opn) is correlated to cardiac pathology. Therefore, this study provides mechanistic insight into the relationship between osteopontin and cardiac fibrosis during HIV infection.

Methods

Mouse embryonic fibroblasts (MEFs) modeled cardiac fibroblasts in vitro. Simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV)-infected macaques with or without antiretroviral therapy and HIV-infected humanized mice modeled HIV-associated cardiac fibrosis.

Results

Lipopolysaccharide-stimulated MEFs were myofibroblast-like, secreted cytokines, and produced Opn transcripts. SIV-infected animals had elevated plasma Opn at necropsy, full-length Opn in the ventricle, and ventricular interstitial fibrosis. Regression modeling identified growth differentiation factor 15, CD14+CD16+ monocytes, and CD163 expression on CD14+CD16+ monocytes as independent predictors of plasma Opn during SIV infection. HIV-infected humanized mice showed increased interstitial fibrosis compared to uninfected/untreated animals, and systemic inhibition of osteopontin by RNA aptamer reduced left ventricle fibrosis in HIV-infected humanized mice.

Conclusions

Since Opn is elevated in the plasma and left ventricle during SIV infection and systemic inhibition of Opn reduced cardiac fibrosis in HIV-infected mice, Opn may be a potential target for adjunctive therapies to reduce cardiac fibrosis in people with HIV.
Natural Clearance of Chlamydia trachomatis Infection Is Associated With Distinct Differences in Cervicovaginal Metabolites
Authors: Jordan Stephen J , Wilson Landon , Ren Jie , Gupta Kanupriya , Barnes Stephen , Geisler William M
Published: May 2023

Background

Natural clearance of Chlamydia trachomatis in women occurs in the interval between screening and treatment. In vitro, interferon-γ (IFN-γ)–mediated tryptophan depletion results in C. trachomatis clearance, but whether this mechanism occurs in vivo remains unclear. We previously found that women who naturally cleared C. trachomatis had lower cervicovaginal levels of tryptophan and IFN-γ compared to women with persisting infection, suggesting IFN-γ–independent pathways may promote C. trachomatis clearance.

Methods

Cervicovaginal lavages from 34 women who did (n = 17) or did not (n = 17) naturally clear C. trachomatis were subjected to untargeted high-performance liquid chromatography mass-spectrometry to identify metabolites and metabolic pathways associated with natural clearance.

Results

In total, 375 positively charged metabolites and 149 negatively charged metabolites were annotated. Compared to women with persisting infection, C. trachomatis natural clearance was associated with increased levels of oligosaccharides trehalose, sucrose, melezitose, and maltotriose, and lower levels of indoline and various amino acids. Metabolites were associated with valine, leucine, and isoleucine biosynthesis pathways.

Conclusions

The cervicovaginal metabolome in women who did or did not naturally clear C. trachomatis is distinct. In women who cleared C. trachomatis, depletion of various amino acids, especially valine, leucine, and isoleucine, suggests that amino acids other than tryptophan impact C. trachomatis survival in vivo.
The scaffold protein PDZK1 governs diurnal localization of CNT2 on the plasma membrane in mouse intestinal epithelial cells
Authors: Jaballah Nour , Tsurudome Yuya , Murakami Chiho , Matsunaga Naoya , Ushijima Kentaro , Koyanagi Satoru , Ohdo Shigehiro
Published: May 2023

Diurnal oscillations in the expression of several types of cell surface transporters have been demonstrated in the intestinal epithelial cells, which are mainly generated at transcriptional or degradation processes. Concentrative nucleoside transporter-2 (CNT2) is expressed at the apical site of intestinal epithelial cells and contributes to the uptake of nucleosides and their analogs from the intestinal lumen into the epithelial cells. In this study, we demonstrated that the localization of CNT2 protein in the plasma membrane of mouse intestinal epithelial cells exhibited a diurnal oscillation without changing its protein level in the whole cell. The scaffold protein PDZK1 interacted with CNT2 and stabilized its plasmalemmal localization. The expression of PDZK1 was under the control of molecular components of the circadian clock. Temporal accumulation of PDZK1 protein in intestinal epithelial cells enhanced the plasmalemmal localization of CNT2 at certain times of the day. The temporal increase in CNT2 protein levels at the plasma membrane also facilitated the uptake of adenosine into the intestinal epithelial cells. These results suggest a novel molecular mechanism for the diurnal localization of cell surface transporters and extend our understanding of the biological clock system that generates apparent physiological rhythms.
How do financialised agri-corporate investors acquire farmland? Analysing land investment in an Australian agricultural region, 2004–2019
Authors: Pritchard Bill , Welch Elen , Restrepo Guillermo Umana , Mitchell Lachlan
Published: May 2023

This article uses a purpose-designed land parcels database covering all rural land transactions over 16 years (2004–2019 inclusive) to document the ways in which financialised agri-corporate investors acquired farmland in a major Australian cropping and grazing region, New England North West (NENW). Framing these investments through the lens of strategic coupling reveals a mix of land acquisition strategies. Almost 200,000 ha of farmland was acquired by financialised agri-corporate investors in NENW during the study period. Approximately one-third was acquired through takeovers of stock market listed agricultural companies or unlisted agricultural asset management companies, another third involved the purchase of farms already packaged into assetised forms by prior rounds of restructuring and the final third involved the purchase and aggregation of family farms. We interpret this mix of entry modes to indicate a flexible and opportunistic set of dynamics in how financialised agri-corporate investors amass their land assets, underlining their reach and scope in the restructuring of regional agricultures.
Macrophage deficiency in CSF1R-knockout rat embryos does not compromise placental or embryo development
Authors: Hume David A , Teakle Ngari , Keshvari Sahar , Irvine Katharine M
Published: May 2023

Macrophages are an abundant cell population in the placenta and developing embryo and appear to be involved in processes of vascularization, morphogenesis, organogenesis, and hematopoiesis. The proliferation, differentiation, and survival are dependent on signals from the macrophage colony-stimulating factor receptor, CSF1R. Aside from the role in macrophages, Csf1r mRNA is highly expressed in placental trophoblasts. To explore the function of macrophages and Csf1r in placental and embryonic development, we analyzed the impact of homozygous Csf1r null mutation (Csf1rko) in the rat. In late gestation, IBA1+ macrophages were abundant in control embryos in all tissues, including the placenta, and greatly reduced in the Csf1rko. CSF1R was also detected in stellate macrophage-like cells and in neurons using anti-CSF1R antibody but was undetectable in trophoblasts. However, the neuronal signal was not abolished in the Csf1rko. CD163 was most abundant in cells forming the center of erythroblastic islands in the liver and was also CSF1R dependent. Despite the substantial reduction in macrophage numbers, we detected no effect of the Csf1rko on development of the placenta or any organs, the relative abundance of vascular elements (CD31 staining), or cell proliferation (Ki67 staining). The loss of CD163+ erythroblastic island macrophages in the liver was not associated with anemia or any reduction in the proliferative activity in the liver, but there was a premature expansion of CD206+ cells, presumptive precursors of liver sinusoidal endothelial cells. We suggest that many functions of macrophages in development of the placenta and embryo can be provided by other cell types in their absence.
ANKRD22 promotes glioma proliferation, migration, invasion, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition by upregulating E2F1-mediated MELK expression
Authors: Liu Xin , Zhao Junling , Wu Qiang , Wang Liqun , Lu Wenpeng , Feng Yan
Published: May 2023

Ankyrin repeat domain protein 22 (ANKRD22) has been implicated in various types of cancers but its expression and potential functions have not been investigated in gliomas. In this study, the high expression of ANKRD22 in gliomas and its correlation with survival were identified based on the Cancer Genome Atlas database. Similar expression trends were observed in glioma tissues and cell lines. Functionally, the loss of ANKRD22 suppressed glioma cell proliferation, migration, and invasion and cell cycle progression in vitro and tumor growth in vivo. Mechanistically, ANKRD22 interacted with the E2F transcription factor 1 (E2F1), thereby upregulating maternal embryonic leucine zipper kinase (MELK) protein expression. Moreover, E2F1 overexpression partly restored ANKRD22 silence-mediated tumor suppressive effects in glioma cells. In conclusion, our data highlight the oncogenic role of ANKRD22 in gliomas via E2F1/MELK signaling, which may serve as a promising target for glioma treatment.
The impact of pharmacist-guided inhaler technique education on chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and asthma patients
Authors: Cohen Jacob , Rosenbaum Iris , Oberman Bernice , Katz Irit , Sharabi Naama , Shlomi Dekel
Published: May 2023

Objective

The core treatment for asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is inhalers. Today, there are many types of pressurized metered-dose inhalers (pMDIs) and dry powdered inhalers (DPIs). Each inhaler requires special sequential manoeuvres and coordination. It is well-known from previous studies that most patients perform at least one mistake using their inhaler which may lead to ineffective drug delivery and poor disease control. The aim of this study is to measure the proportion of patients who used the inhalers in a fully effective way before and after the pharmacist’s guidance.

Methods

Patients prescribed inhalers for asthma and COPD, were offered by the local pharmacist to personally assess and correct their inhaler use technique over two visits. At each visit, before any pharmacist correction of technique, a general score for inhaler technique was given and 16 types of mistakes were assessed. Comparisons of inhaler technique were made between the two visits.

Key findings

Sixty patients aged 21–91 (median 69; IQR 48–78) participated in the initial session of which 35 (58%) were females using 81 inhalers (DPI-60, pMDI-21). A fully effective inhaler technique was found in nine patients (15%) using 13 inhalers (16%) while 22 inhalers (27%) were used fully ineffectively (there were no statistically significant differences between DPIs and pMDIs). Twenty-three patients using 24 inhalers returned for a second visit in which 12 patients (52%, P = 0.0014 between the visits) used 12 inhalers (50%) fully effectively and only three inhalers (12.5%) were used fully ineffectively (P = 0.0045 between the visits). The odds for using the inhaler fully effectively were 5.2 (95% CI, 1.9 to 14.2; P = 0.0011) times higher on the second visit.

Conclusions

Personal pharmacist guidance can improve inhaler technique in a low socio-economic neighbourhood. However, larger multicentre studies that will also examine clinical outcomes are needed.
Mapping the X-ray variability of GRS 1915 + 105 with machine learning
Authors: Ricketts Benjamin J , Steiner James F , Garraffo Cecilia , Remillard Ronald A , Huppenkothen Daniela
Published: May 2023

Black hole X-ray binary systems (BHBs) contain a close companion star accreting onto a stellar-mass black hole. A typical BHB undergoes transient outbursts during which it exhibits a sequence of long-lived spectral states, each of which is relatively stable. GRS 1915 + 105 is a unique BHB that exhibits an unequaled number and variety of distinct variability patterns in X-rays. Many of these patterns contain unusual behaviour not seen in other sources. These variability patterns have been sorted into different classes based on count rate and colour characteristics by previous work. In order to remove human decision-making from the pattern-recognition process, we employ an unsupervised machine learning algorithm called an auto-encoder to learn what classifications are naturally distinct by allowing the algorithm to cluster observations. We focus on observations taken by the Rossi X-ray Timing Explorer’s Proportional Counter Array. We find that the auto-encoder closely groups observations together that are classified as similar by previous work, but that there is reasonable grounds for defining each class as made up of components from three groups of distinct behaviour.
JWST NIRCam + NIRSpec: interstellar medium and stellar populations of young galaxies with rising star formation and evolving gas reservoirs
Authors: Tacchella Sandro , Johnson Benjamin D , Robertson Brant E , Carniani Stefano , D’Eugenio Francesco , Kumari Nimisha , Maiolino Roberto , Nelson Erica J , Suess Katherine A , Übler Hannah , Williams Christina C , Adebusola Alabi , Alberts Stacey , Arribas Santiago , Bhatawdekar Rachana , Bonaventura Nina , Bowler Rebecca A A , Bunker Andrew J , Cameron Alex J , Curti Mirko , Egami Eiichi , Eisenstein Daniel J , Frye Brenda , Hainline Kevin , Helton Jakob M , Ji Zhiyuan , Looser Tobias J , Lyu Jianwei , Perna Michele , Rawle Timothy , Rieke George , Rieke Marcia , Saxena Aayush , Sandles Lester , Shivaei Irene , Simmonds Charlotte , Sun Fengwu , Willmer Christopher N A , Willott Chris J , Witstok Joris
Published: May 2023

We present an interstellar medium and stellar population analysis of three spectroscopically confirmed z > 7 galaxies in the Early Release Observations JWST/NIRCam and JWST/NIRSpec data of the SMACS J0723.3−7327 cluster. We use the Bayesian spectral energy distribution-fitting code prospector with a flexible star formation history (SFH), a variable dust attenuation law, and a self-consistent model of nebular emission (continuum and emission lines). Importantly, we self-consistently fit both the emission line fluxes from JWST/NIRSpec and the broad-band photometry from JWST/NIRCam, taking into account slit-loss effects. We find that these three z=7.6–8.5 galaxies (M⋆ ≈ 108 M⊙) are young with rising SFHs and mass-weighted ages of 3–4 Myr, though we find indications for underlying older stellar populations. The inferred gas-phase metallicities broadly agree with the direct metallicity estimates from the auroral lines. The galaxy with the lowest gas-phase metallicity (Zgas= 0.06 Z⊙) has a steeply rising SFH, is very compact (<0.2 kpc), and has a high star formation rate surface density (ΣSFR ≈ 22 M⊙ yr−1 kpc−2), consistent with rapid gas accretion. The two other objects with higher gas-phase metallicities show more complex multicomponent morphologies on kpc scales, indicating that their recent increase in star formation rate is driven by mergers or internal, gravitational instabilities. We discuss effects of assuming different SFH priors or only fitting the photometric data. Our analysis highlights the strength and importance of combining JWST imaging and spectroscopy for fully assessing the nature of galaxies at the earliest epochs.
Revealing the intrinsic X-ray reverberation lags in IRAS 13224−3809 through the Granger causality test
Authors: Chainakun P , Nakhonthong N , Luangtip W , Young A J
Published: May 2023

The Granger causality is an econometric test for determining whether one time series is useful for forecasting another one with a certain Granger lag. Here, the light curves in the 0.3–1 keV (reflection dominated, soft) and 1.2–5 keV (continuum dominated, hard) bands of active galactic nuclei are produced, and the Granger lags are estimated and compared to the traditional lag–frequency spectra. We find that the light curves in the hard band Granger-cause (lead) those in the soft band, whereas the obtained Granger lags could be interpreted as the intrinsic reverberation lags. Then, we extract the Granger-lag profiles from 14 XMM–Newton observations of IRAS 13224−3809, and find that the lags are significant in 12 observations. The majority of the obtained Granger (intrinsic) lags are ∼200–500 s. With the IRAS 13224−3809 mass of 2 × 106 M⊙, these lags correspond to the true light travel distance of ∼20–50 rg. Hence, by assuming a lamp-post geometry and a face-on disc, this places the corona at ∼10–25 rg above the central black hole. Moreover, multiple Granger lags consisting of the small and large lags of <500 s and >1000 s are detected in four observations. This means that the corona height can significantly evolve from ∼10–25 rg to ∼55rg, or vice versa, towards the end of the observation. Granger lags are a promising way to measure the intrinsic lags, and provide evidence of coronal height variability within each individual observation.
RNAincoder: a deep learning-based encoder for RNA and RNA-associated interaction
Authors: Wang Yunxia , Chen Zhen , Pan Ziqi , Huang Shijie , Liu Jin , Xia Weiqi , Zhang Hongning , Zheng Mingyue , Li Honglin , Hou Tingjun , Zhu Feng
Published: May 2023

Ribonucleic acids (RNAs) involve in various physiological/pathological processes by interacting with proteins, compounds, and other RNAs. A variety of powerful computational methods have been developed to predict such valuable interactions. However, all these methods rely heavily on the ‘digitalization’ (also known as ‘encoding’) of RNA-associated interacting pairs into a computer-recognizable descriptor. In other words, it is urgently needed to have a powerful tool that can not only represent each interacting partner but also integrate both partners into a computer-recognizable interaction. Herein, RNAincoder (deep learning-based encoder for RNA-associated interactions) was therefore proposed to (a) provide a comprehensive collection of RNA encoding features, (b) realize the representation of any RNA-associated interaction based on a well-established deep learning-based embedding strategy and (c) enable large-scale scanning of all possible feature combinations to identify the one of optimal performance in RNA-associated interaction prediction. The effectiveness of RNAincoder was extensively validated by case studies on benchmark datasets. All in all, RNAincoder is distinguished for its capability in providing a more accurate representation of RNA-associated interactions, which makes it an indispensable complement to other available tools. RNAincoder can be accessed at https://idrblab.org/rnaincoder/
Management of antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody–associated vasculitis with glomerulonephritis as proposed by the ACR 2021, EULAR 2022 and KDIGO 2021 guidelines/recommendations
Authors: Casal Moura Marta , Gauckler Philipp , Anders Hans-Joachim , Bruchfeld Annette , Fernandez-Juarez Gema M , Floege Jürgen , Frangou Eleni , Goumenos Dimitrios , Segelmark Marten , Turkmen Kultigin , van Kooten Cees , Tesar Vladimir , Geetha Duvuru , Fervenza Fernando C , Jayne David R W , Stevens Kate I , Kronbichler Andreas
Published: May 2023

Updated guidelines on the management of antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)-associated vasculitis (AAV) were released in 2021 by the American College of Rheumatology jointly with the Vasculitis Foundation and, subsequently, in 2022 by the European Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology. In addition, in 2021, the Kidney Disease: Improving Global Outcomes had released updated recommendations on the treatment of AAV with glomerulonephritis (AAV-GN). Kidney involvement is particularly relevant in microscopic polyangiitis and granulomatosis with polyangiitis, but is less frequent in eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis. The management of AAV-GN has been a focus for drug development and change over the past 10 years. Avoidance of progression to end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) or kidney failure is one of the main unmet needs in the management of AAV, with ESKD having a major impact on morbidity, health costs and mortality risk. Relevant changes in AAV-GN management are related to remission-induction treatment of patients with severe kidney disease, the use of glucocorticoids and avacopan, and remission-maintenance treatment. All the documents provide guidance in accordance with the evidence-based standard of care available at the time of their release. With our work we aim to (i) show the progress made and identify the differences between guidelines and recommendations, (ii) discuss the supporting rationale for those, and (iii) identify gaps in knowledge that could benefit from additional research and should be revised in subsequent updates.
Troubleshooting Violence: An Evaluation of Ghost Guns, Firearm-Related Violence, and Law Enforcement Policy in a Bay Area city
Authors: Jackson Summer M , Rippy Michelle , Chaplin Toney
Published: May 2023

Similar to many cities across the nation, Hayward, CA, is experiencing an uptick in gun-related violence. From 2015 to 2021, the City of Hayward experienced a 147% increase in assaults with a firearm and a 106% increase in firearm discharges. Gun crimes continue to threaten the safety of the community and its first responders. Likewise, technological advancements and the availability of non-serialized firearms, such as ghost guns, are becoming an increasing threat to community members. Through an evaluation of firearm-related criminal cases from 2015 to 2021, researchers seek to understand the extent and nature of gun violence in the City of Hayward, crime control efforts, and how firearm-related crimes have changed over time. The goal is to analyse trends in gun-related incidents to help shape future policies, data collection, and responses to gun-related calls for service.
Female Rangers in Latin America: An Assessment of Role, Recruitment, and Work Environment
Authors: Elligson Richard L , Álvarez Malvido Mónica , Moreto William D
Published: May 2023

There has been increased research examining conservation rangers. Little is known, however, about female rangers, including their primary roles and workplace environment. Few studies have examined the profession within a Latin American context. This qualitative study explores ranger respondents’ perceptions towards the role, recruitment, and working environment of female rangers in Latin American countries. Based on data obtained from interviews with 28 respondents across 11 countries, findings suggest female rangers’ roles are largely consistent with that of their male counterparts. However, different strengths were highlighted. Additionally, female involvement in the profession was attributed to national employment-based quotas, increased education and exposure, and the presence of women in leadership. Factors that led to a supportive work environment for female rangers included camaraderie, opportunities for professional development and growth, and attentive supervisors and subordinates. Conversely, the persistence of a machismo culture and discriminatory policies and practices were viewed as obstacles. Findings have several implications regarding gender diversity within the ranger profession. Discussion on academic-practitioner collaborations is also provided.
Improving academic and public health impact of Cochrane public health reviews: what can we learn from bibliographic metrics and author dissemination strategies? A cross-sectional study
Authors: Wolfenden Luke , Close Shara , Finch Meghan , Lecathelinais Christophe , Ramanathan Shanthi , De Santis Karina Karolina , Car Lorainne Tudor , Doyle Jodie , McCrabb Sam
Published: May 2023

Background

To facilitate the development of impactful research dissemination strategies, this study aimed to: (i) survey authors of trials included in a sample of Cochrane reviews to describe strategies to disseminate trial findings, and examine their association with academic and policy impacts and (ii) audit academic and policy impact of CPH reviews.

Methods

Authors of 104 trials within identified Cochrane reviews completed survey items assessing the dissemination strategies. Field weighted citation (FWCI) data extracted from bibliographic databases served as a measure of academic impact of trials and CPH reviews. Policy and practice impacts of trials were assessed during the survey of trial authors using items based on the Payback Framework, and for CPH reviews using ‘policy mention’ data collected via Altmetric Explorer.

Results

Among the included trials, univariate (but not multivariable) regression models revealed significant associations between the use of dissemination strategies (i.e. posts on social media; workshops with end-users; media-releases) and policy or practice impacts. No significant associations were reported between dissemination strategies and trial FWCI. The mean FWCI of CPH reviews suggest that they are cited 220% more than other reviews in their field.

Conclusions

Comprehensive dissemination strategies are likely required to maximize the potential the potential impacts of public health research.