bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Liquid Crystalline Behavior and Related Properties of Colloidal Systems of Inorganic Oxide Nanosheets
Authors: Nakato Teruyuki , Miyamoto Nobuyoshi
Published: October 2009

Inorganic layered crystals exemplified by clay minerals can be exfoliated in solvents to form colloidal dispersions of extremely thin inorganic layers that are called nanosheets. The obtained “nanosheet colloids” form lyotropic liquid crystals because of the highly anisotropic shape of the nanosheets. This system is a rare example of liquid crystals consisting of inorganic crystalline mesogens. Nanosheet colloids of photocatalytically active semiconducting oxides can exhibit unusual photoresponses that are not observed for organic liquid crystals. This review summarizes experimental work on the phase behavior of the nanosheet colloids as well as photochemical reactions observed in the clay and semiconducting nanosheets system.
Understanding of Coupled Terrestrial Carbon, Nitrogen and Water Dynamics—An Overview
Authors: Chen Baozhang , Coops Nicholas C.
Published: October 2009

Coupled terrestrial carbon (C), nitrogen (N) and hydrological processes play a crucial role in the climate system, providing both positive and negative feedbacks to climate change. In this review we summarize published research results to gain an increased understanding of the dynamics between vegetation and atmosphere processes. A variety of methods, including monitoring (e.g., eddy covariance flux tower, remote sensing, etc.) and modeling (i.e., ecosystem, hydrology and atmospheric inversion modeling) the terrestrial carbon and water budgeting, are evaluated and compared. We highlight two major research areas where additional research could be focused: (i) Conceptually, the hydrological and biogeochemical processes are closely linked, however, the coupling processes between terrestrial C, N and hydrological processes are far from well understood; and (ii) there are significant uncertainties in estimates of the components of the C balance, especially at landscape and regional scales. To address these two questions, a synthetic research framework is needed which includes both bottom-up and top-down approaches integrating scalable (footprint and ecosystem) models and a spatially nested hierarchy of observations which include multispectral remote sensing, inventories, existing regional clusters of eddy-covariance flux towers and CO2 mixing ratio towers and chambers.
High Sensitivity Electrochemical Cholesterol Sensor Utilizing a Vertically Aligned Carbon Nanotube Electrode with Electropolymerized Enzyme Immobilization
Authors: Wisitsoraat Anurat , Karuwan Chanpen , Wong-ek Krongkamol , Phokharatkul Ditsayut , Sritongkham Pornpimol , Tuantranont Adisorn
Published: October 2009

In this report, a new cholesterol sensor is developed based on a vertically aligned CNT electrode with two-step electrochemical polymerized enzyme immobilization. Vertically aligned CNTs are selectively grown on a 1 mm2 window of gold coated SiO2/Si substrate by thermal chemical vapor deposition (CVD) with gravity effect and water-assisted etching. CNTs are then simultaneously functionalized and enzyme immobilized by electrochemical polymerization of polyaniline and cholesterol enzymes. Subsequently, ineffective enzymes are removed and new enzymes are electrochemically recharged. Scanning electron microscopic characterization indicates polymer-enzyme nanoparticle coating on CNT surface. Cyclic voltammogram (CV) measurements in cholesterol solution show the oxidation and reduction peaks centered around 450 and −220 mV, respectively. An approximately linear relationship between the cholesterol concentration and the response current could be observed in the concentration range of 50–300 mg/dl with a sensitivity of approximately 0.22 μA/mg·dl−1, which is considerably higher compared to previously reported CNT bioprobe. In addition, good specificity toward glucose, uric acid acetaminophen and ascorbic acid have been obtained. Moreover, sensors have satisfactory stability, repeatability and life time. Therefore, the electropolymerized CNT bioprobe is promising for cholesterol detection in normal cholesterol concentration in human blood.
Herpes Virus Amplicon Vectors
Authors: De Silva Suresh , Bowers William J.
Published: October 2009

Since its emergence onto the gene therapy scene nearly 25 years ago, the replication-defective Herpes Simplex Virus Type-1 (HSV-1) amplicon has gained significance as a versatile gene transfer platform due to its extensive transgene capacity, widespread cellular tropism, minimal immunogenicity, and its amenability to genetic manipulation. Herein, we detail the recent advances made with respect to the design of the HSV amplicon, its numerous in vitro and in vivo applications, and the current impediments this virus-based gene transfer platform faces as it navigates a challenging path towards future clinical testing.
Infant Botulism and Raised Intraocular Pressure
Authors: Eberly Matthew D. , Uber Ian , Kieling Christopher R. , Birdsong Richard H.
Published: October 2009

Infant botulism is an exceedingly rare disease. Because confirmatory laboratory testing is not available for several days after time of presentation, infant botulism remains a clinical diagnosis. The authors demonstrate how raised intraocular pressure may provide an additional clinical clue to making the diagnosis.
Simultaneous Occurrence of Glial Heterotopia and Meningocele in the Orbit With Clinical Anophthalmia and Neurological Anomalies
Authors: Pushker Neelam , Bajaj Mandeep S. , Mehta Mridula , Kashyap Seema , Yadav Prashant , Meel Rachna , Sudhan Madhu
Published: October 2009

The authors describe a 5-year-old boy who had three congenital anomalies (clinical anophthalmos, meningocele, and glial heterotopia) in the orbit. These were associated with multiple neurological anomalies.
Successful Surgical Intervention for Childhood Pterygium Using a Conjunctival Autograft
Authors: Trikha Sameer , Khan-Lim Doreen , Evans Anthony R.
Published: October 2009

Childhood pterygia are extremely rare and no consensus currently exists regarding surgical management in cases of significant symptomatology. The authors describe a case of a childhood pterygium in a 9-year-old boy successfully treated with a superior conjunctival autograft. At 6 months of follow-up, no signs of recurrence were detected and the patient reported marked improvement in symptoms. Use of this technique may be beneficial in certain cases of childhood pterygia.
Type I Interferons Produced by Resident Renal Cells May Promote End-Organ Disease in Autoantibody-Mediated Glomerulonephritis
Authors: Fairhurst Anna-Marie , Xie Chun , Fu Yuyang , Wang Andrew , Boudreaux Christopher , Zhou Xin J. , Cibotti Ricardo , Coyle Anthony , Connolly John E. , Wakeland Edward K. , Mohan Chandra
Published: October 2009

Increased Type I IFNs or IFN-I have been associated with human systemic lupus erythematosus. Interestingly augmenting or negating IFN-I activity in murine lupus not only modulates systemic autoimmunity, but also impacts lupus nephritis, suggesting that IFN-I may be acting at the level of the end-organ. We find resident renal cells to be a dominant source of IFN-I in an experimental model of autoantibody-induced nephritis. In this model, augmenting IFN-I amplified antibody-triggered nephritis, whereas ablating IFN-I activity ameliorated disease. One mechanism through which increased IFN-I drives immune-mediated nephritis might be operative through increased recruitment of inflammatory monocytes and neutrophils, though this hypothesis needs further validation. Collectively, these studies indicate that an important contribution of IFN-I toward the disease pathology seen in systemic autoimmunity may be exercised at the level of the end-organ.
Long Double-Stranded RNA Induces an Antiviral Response Independent of IFN Regulatory Factor 3, IFN-β Promoter Stimulator 1, and IFN
Authors: DeWitte-Orr Stephanie J. , Mehta Devangi R. , Collins Susan E. , Suthar Mehul S. , Gale Michael , Mossman Karen L.
Published: October 2009

Virus infection elicits a robust innate antiviral response dominated by the production of type 1 IFN. In nonprofessional innate immune cells such as fibroblasts, type 1 IFN is rapidly produced following the recognition of viral dsRNA and the subsequent activation of the constitutively expressed transcription factor IFN regulatory factor 3 (IRF3). Although origin, localization, and length are factors in mediating dsRNA recognition and binding by cellular dsRNA-binding proteins, the biological significance of differential dsRNA binding is unclear, since the subsequent signaling pathways converge on IRF3. In this study, we show a dsRNA length-dependent activation of IRFs, IFNs, and IFN-stimulated genes in mouse fibroblasts. The length dependence was exacerbated in fibroblasts deficient in the mitochondria-associated adaptor IFN-β promoter stimulator 1 and IRF3, suggesting that antiviral gene induction mediated by short and long dsRNA molecules is predominantly IFN-β promoter stimulator 1 and IRF3 dependent and independent, respectively. Furthermore, we provide evidence of an innate antiviral response in fibroblasts in the absence of both IRF3 and type 1 IFN induction. Even with these key modulators missing, a 60–90% inhibition of virus replication was observed following 24-h treatment with short or long dsRNA molecules, respectively. These data provide evidence of a novel antiviral pathway that is dependent on dsRNA length, but independent of the type 1 IFN system.
Outside-In Signal Transmission by Conformational Changes in Integrin Mac-1
Authors: Lefort Craig T. , Hyun Young-Min , Schultz Joanne B. , Law Foon-Yee , Waugh Richard E. , Knauf Philip A. , Kim Minsoo
Published: October 2009

Intracellular signals associated with or triggered by integrin ligation can control cell survival, differentiation, proliferation, and migration. Despite accumulating evidence that conformational changes regulate integrin affinity to its ligands, how integrin structure regulates signal transmission from the outside to the inside of the cell remains elusive. Using fluorescence resonance energy transfer, we addressed whether conformational changes in integrin Mac-1 are sufficient to transmit outside-in signals in human neutrophils. Mac-1 conformational activation induced by ligand occupancy or activating Ab binding, but not integrin clustering, triggered similar patterns of intracellular protein tyrosine phosphorylation, including Akt phosphorylation, and inhibited spontaneous neutrophil apoptosis, indicating that global conformational changes are critical for Mac-1-dependent outside-in signal transduction. In neutrophils and myeloid K562 cells, ligand ICAM-1 or activating Ab binding promoted switchblade-like extension of the Mac-1 extracellular domain and separation of the αM and β2 subunit cytoplasmic tails, two structural hallmarks of integrin activation. These data suggest the primacy of global conformational changes in the generation of Mac-1 outside-in signals.
Bone Marrow Ly6Chigh Monocytes Are Selectively Recruited to Injured Kidney and Differentiate into Functionally Distinct Populations
Authors: Lin Shuei Liong , Castaño Ana P. , Nowlin Brian T. , Lupher Mark L. , Duffield Jeremy S.
Published: October 2009

Roles for monocyte/macrophages (Mφ) in directing the development of tissue fibrosis are increasingly recognized. Macrophages form a heterogeneous group of inflammatory leukocytes, and the mechanisms by which they acquire heterogeneity and its functional significance are unclear. We used the unilateral ureteral obstruction model of progressive kidney fibrosis to explore macrophage heterogeneity and function further. Unilateral ureteral obstruction kidney Mφs form three distinct subpopulations defined by the marker Ly6C, all of which are derived from a single Ly6Chigh bone marrow monocyte population selectively recruited to the kidney. Conditional ablation of these Mφs in vivo in CD11b-DTR mice is potently antifibrotic. The mRNA transcription profile of these populations is consistent with differential functional roles for each subpopulation, with Ly6Clow macrophages transcribing genes consistent with selective profibrotic or M2-type function. Furthermore, bone marrow chimerism studies indicate that although resident kidney macrophages proliferate markedly to comprise up to 40% of the inflammatory macrophage population, they do not contribute to fibrosis. Our data identify Ly6C as a marker of functionally discrete tissue macrophage subsets and support a model of selective recruitment of Ly6Chigh bone marrow monocytes to the kidney that differentiate into three populations of kidney macrophages, including a profibrotic Ly6Clow population.
Chronic CD70-Driven Costimulation Impairs IgG Responses by Instructing T Cells to Inhibit Germinal Center B Cell Formation through FasL-Fas Interactions
Authors: Beishuizen Cathrien R. L. , Kragten Natasja A. M. , Boon Louis , Nolte Martijn A. , van Lier Rene A. W. , van Gisbergen Klaas P. J. M.
Published: October 2009

CD70 provides costimulation that enhances effector T cell differentiation upon binding of its receptor, CD27. During chronic immune activation, CD70 is constitutively expressed on activated immune cells, and this induces T cell-driven disruption of neutralizing Ab responses via an unknown mechanism. We used CD70-transgenic mice to investigate the effect of constitutive expression of CD70 on T cell-dependent B cell responses. CD70 induced up-regulation of the B cell follicle homing chemokine receptor CXCR5 on T cells, enabling not only CD4 but also CD8 T cells to infiltrate the B cell follicles. CD70-transgenic mice failed to develop productive germinal center formation and displayed impaired IgG Ab responses. Defective germinal center B cell differentiation was critically dependent on CD70-mediated CD27 signaling in T cells, and involved Fas-dependent impairment of germinal center B cell differentiation. Thus, CD70-driven costimulation enables T cells to terminate B cell responses, thereby compromising durable Ab production. Our findings imply that the CD70- and CD27-driven costimulatory axis may be involved in shutdown of B cell responses before clearance of Ag. Because CD70 is expressed constitutively in chronic viral infections such as HIV-1 infection, this mechanism may also contribute to defects in humoral immunity associated with this disease.
A Major Role for the Minor Capsid Protein of Human Papillomavirus Type 16 in Immune Escape
Authors: Fahey Laura M. , Raff Adam B. , Da Silva Diane M. , Kast W. Martin
Published: October 2009

High-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) infection of the cervical epithelium is causally linked with the generation of cervical cancer. HPV does not activate Langerhans cells (LC), the APC at the site of infection, leading to immune evasion. The HPV protein responsible for inducing this immune escape has not been determined. We demonstrate that LC exposed to the minor capsid protein L2 in HPV16L1L2 virus-like particles do not phenotypically or functionally mature. However, HPV16L1 virus-like particles significantly induce activation of LC. Our data suggest that the L2 protein plays a specific role in the induction of this immune escape of HPV16 through the manipulation of LC. This novel function is the first immune modulating action attributed to the L2 protein and adds significantly to our understanding of the mechanism of HPV immune escape.
C1q Differentially Modulates Phagocytosis and Cytokine Responses during Ingestion of Apoptotic Cells by Human Monocytes, Macrophages, and Dendritic Cells
Authors: Fraser Deborah A. , Laust Amanda K. , Nelson Edward L. , Tenner Andrea J.
Published: October 2009

C1q, the first component of the classical complement pathway, is also a pattern recognition receptor involved in the recognition and clearance of apoptotic cells. C1q deficiency in humans leads to development of lupus-like autoimmune disease, and it has been speculated that impaired clearance of apoptotic cells may contribute to disease development. Since phagocytes initiate specific and appropriate immune responses as a result of initial ligand-receptor interactions, regulation of gene expression by C1q may also contribute to the sculpting of an immune response to the ingested “self-Ags.” In this study, the role of C1q in apoptotic cell clearance and subsequent modulation of cytokine release by phagocytes was assessed including donor matched human monocytes, monocyte-derived macrophages (HMDMs), and dendritic cells (DCs). First, C1q binding is much greater to late compared with early apoptotic cells. Second, C1q binding to apoptotic cells significantly enhanced the levels of ingestion by monocytes but had no effect on HMDM and DC uptake. Third, in the presence of serum, C1q bound to apoptotic cells, activated the complement pathway, leading to C3b deposition, and enhancement of uptake of apoptotic cells by monocytes, HMDMs, and DCs. Finally, although C1q, either immobilized on a plate or bound to apoptotic cells, modulates the LPS-induced cytokine levels released by human monocytes, HMDMs, and DCs toward a more limited immune response, both the degree and direction of modulation differed significantly depending on the differentiation state of the phagocyte, providing further evidence of the integration of these cell- and environment-specific signals in determining appropriate immune responses.
Lipid-rich histology in a basal-type immuno-profile breast carcinoma: a clinicopathological histochemical and immunohistochemical analysis of a case
Authors: Russo Serena , Coppola Diana , Vinaccia Paola , Siciliano Antonella , Baldassarre Francesca , Battista Giovanni , Pisani Giuseppe , Sepe Joseph , Maiello Francesco M
Published: October 2009

We describe the clinicopathological and morphological features of an unusual breast carcinoma classifiable as a lipid-rich variant of ductal invasive carcinoma, with a basal-type immunohistochemical profile. Basal-type breast cancers show no hormonal receptor expression, rarely over-express HER-2 but exhibit molecular high weight cytokeratins, EGFR and c-kit positivity. Special stains and histochemistry tests were used to elucidate the nature of vescicles in the neoplastic cells. Sudan IV was performed on formalin-fixed tissue. Commercially available antibodies tested were: ER, PgR, EGFR, HER2, c-kit, high molecular weight cytokeratins. Cytoplasmic lipids were highlighted as red-orange droplets on Sudan IV staining. As for immunohistochemistry, the tumor showed no reactivity to ER, PgR and HER2 (triple negative), and diffuse and strong positivity to high weight cytokeratins, EGFR and c-kit, such as a basal-type breast carcinoma. A basaloid phenotype in a lipid-rich carcinoma has not been previously reported.
Synchronous malignant B-cell lymphoma and gastric tubular adenocarcinoma associated with paraneoplastic cutaneous vasculitis: hypereosinophilic syndrome with mixed cryoglobulinemia is an important sign of paraneoplastic syndrome
Authors: Nozawa Kazuhisa , Kaneko Hiroshi , Itoh Tomoyasu , Katsura Yoko , Noguchi Masaaki , Suzuki Fujihiko , Takasaki Yoshinari , Ogawa Hideoki , Takamori Kenji , Sekigawa Iwao
Published: October 2009

Gastric adenocarcinoma developing concomitantly with a lymphoma is rare. Furthermore, B-cell lymphoma, originating from lymph nodes, with eosinophilia is extremely rare. We report here a case with a synchronous diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) and an early adenocarcinoma of the stomach. In addition, this case seemed to be associated with paraneoplastic cutaneous vasculitis caused by hypereosinophilic syndrome (HES) with mixed cryoglobulinemia (MC). Many neoplastic diseases that affect internal organs display cutaneous manifestations, which may be the presenting signs and symptoms of the underlying malignancy. In particular, the association between cutaneous vasculitis and malignancy has been widely reviewed, and recently neoplasms have been suggested to produce antigens and the resultant immune complex formations, activating the serum complement, thus cause paraneoplastic vasculitis. In this case, severe eosinophilia and cryoglobulinemia with low complements were observed in a laboratory test. A biopsy specimen from a skin lesion revealed leukocytoclastic vasculitis with severe perivascular infiltration of eosinophils. The cutaneous vasuculitis was considered to be a manifestation of HES with MC, although there were no etiological factors of HES and MC. Therefore, the vasculitis seems to be a symptom of paraneoplastic syndrome in this case. Our finding suggests that the potential presence of malignancies should be kept in mind as a possible underlying disorder especially in the presence of HES with MC; this possibility is interesting also as regards at least part of the pathogenesis for paraneplastic syndrome.
Hemangiopericytomas of the spine: case report and review of the literature
Authors: Cole Chad D , Schmidt Meic H
Published: October 2009

We describe a rare case of a primary intracranial meningeal hemangiopericytoma (HPC) with late metastasis to the cervical spine. A 36-year-old woman had a left occipital lesion that was histopathologically identified as HPC. Fourteen years after resection, the tumor recurred and was treated with radiotherapy. Three years later, CT imaging showed a large mass in the liver consistent with metastatic HPC, and MRI of the cervical spine showed an extensive lesion of the C3 vertebral body. The patient underwent C3 corpectomy with en-bloc tumor removal and follow-up radiation with no local recurrence or other spinal metastasis for the following 4 years. Regardless of the subtype of spinal HPC, complete surgical removal and radiotherapy appear to be treatment of choice.
Why is Voluntary Co-operation Condemned to Failure? Reflections on the Polish and German Background
Authors: Lackowska Marta
Published: October 2009

This paper investigates the mechanisms that hamper voluntary co-operative arrangements in metropolitan areas. The study on such arrangements in Poland and Germany reveals that the problems related to the self-interests of the metropolitan actors impede stable and effective performance of these initiatives in both national contexts. The analysis has led to the detection of the vicious circle mechanism that is responsible for underperformance. Its main elements are the lack of appropriate competence and compellability, free-riding among partners, and metropolitan-wide leadership issues. The identified constraints lead to the dilemma between the non-hierarchical co-operative networks and the need for co-ordination mechanisms that are strong enough to enforce long-term non-egoistic actions. The main finding casts doubts on the non-coercive co-operation treated as a plausible and effective mode of governance in metropolitan regions.

KEYWORDS: • voluntary co-operation • metropolitan areas • Germany • Poland
Experiment and Institutionalization: Clean Elections in New Jersey
Authors: Brogan Michael J.
Published: October 2009

There is not a general consensus among scholars about whether public campaign funding initiatives increase electoral competitiveness. U.S. focused research has found the effects of Clean Election (CE) funding present mixed outcomes (Mayer and Wood 1995; GAO 2003; Mayer, Werner, and Williams 2004; Werner and Mayer 2007) On the one hand, research has found that Clean Election funding creates more competitive elections (Bardwell 2002; Mayer, Werner, and Williams 2004). While on the other, Clean Election funding scholars have found that public funding of state legislative candidates has not caused elections to become more competitive (Mayer and Wood 1995; GAO 2003). One reason for the difference in the research literature is likely a result of the program being in its early years of implementation in the U.S. This paper provides a new technique for estimating the short-term and long-range effects of the program by experimenting on the New Jersey case which is designed to cope with limited data. It accomplishes this by creating simulated elections that are based on the lessons-learned in Arizona and Maine, as well as on structural constraints present in New Jersey. The experiment‟s results confirm the impact of Clean Elections is mixed: The impact of Clean Election funding increases intra-party competition but does not increase inter-party competition. Nevertheless, while the impact of Clean Elections does show some encouraging signs for proponents of electoral reform, it is unlikely to transform the electoral landscape by making elections more competitive.

KEYWORDS: • public campaign funding • clean elections • political parties • elections • New Jersey • United States
Every Dataset is a Canon
Authors: Carpo Mario
Published: May 2024

For architects, the construction of a dataset for use in AI, whether imported from somewhere else or newly created, is fundamentally an epistemological canon of references, likes and preoccupations often predicated on the selection of so‐called masterpieces of Western art. The canon represents ideals of beauty and knowledge, but it also reflects a bias in favour of art created by those who have occupied the most socially, politically and economically powerful positions in culture. Mario Carpo, architectural historian, critic and Reyner Banham Professor of Architectural History and Theory at the Bartlett School of Architecture, University College London, leads us through a succinct series of eras and architectural styles to demonstrate this fact and their lack of diversity.
‘Hey ChatGPT, Finish This Building …’: A Worker‐Led AI Agenda for the Construction Industry
Authors: Fox Sarah
Published: May 2024

Instead of AI systems being foisted on workplaces and workers from the top down via a one‐size‐fits all approach, Sarah Fox, director of Carnegie Mellon University's Tech Solidarity Lab, investigates how more participative practices might enable staff to develop equitable workload procedures in conjunction with machine learning systems. How can businesses transform to incorporate AI without the nuances of mass redundancies and human supplication to such processes?
Art Beyond Mechanical Reproduction: In Conversation with AI Artist Mario Klingemann
Authors: del Campo Matias
Published: May 2024

Delving into the realm of how machine learning is being used to make art, Matias del Campo interviews Munich‐based artist Mario Klingemann, who shares with us his modus operandi and aspirations for this new discipline. His work is at once uncanny, defamiliarising and estranging, and not without a hint of bodily violence – a kind of reverse butchery, an assault on the figure by the machine.
Stop Making Sense: Complexity and Contradiction in AI and Architecture
Authors: Kudless Andrew
Published: May 2024

In the last thirty or so years, architects have embraced all manner of computer softwares and hardwares. This has often resulted in convoluted forms and a concentration on the part of architects to solve fabrication complexities at the expense of dexterous design explorations. Artist, designer and educator Andrew Kudless reminds us of the messy, illogical and contradictory aspects of design development, and that we have yet to develop something as multivalent in its evocative suggestions as the old‐fashioned ‘hairy’ sketch.
AI‐Generated Content: From Conception to Communal Engagement
Authors: He Wanyu
Published: May 2024

Since the AI ‘architectural explosion’ of 2022, and as things have become clearer but have not yet settled down, a whole raft of possibilities for creativity and commercial exploration are emerging. Architectural and urban designer Wanyu He explains some of these opportunities, and also reminds us of the ethical and societal concerns about this technology – its biases and blindnesses – which must be addressed before these new approaches can be applied equitably.
Allergen‐Encapsulating Nanoparticles Reprogram Pathogenic Allergen‐Specific Th2 Cells to Suppress Food Allergy
Authors: Saunders Michael N. , Rad Laila M. , Williams Laura A. , Landers Jeffrey J. , Urie Russell R. , Hocevar Sarah E. , Quiros Miguel , Chiang Ming‐Yi , Angadi Amogh R. , Janczak Katarzyna W. , Bealer Elizabeth J. , Crumley Kelly , Benson Olivia E. , Griffin Kate V. , Ross Brian C. , Parkos Charles A. , Nusrat Asma , Miller Stephen D. , Podojil Joseph R. , O'Konek Jessica J. , Shea Lonnie D.
Published: May 2024

Food allergy is a prevalent, potentially deadly disease caused by inadvertent sensitization to benign food antigens. Pathogenic Th2 cells are a major driver for disease, and allergen‐specific immunotherapies (AIT) aim to increase the allergen threshold required to elicit severe allergic symptoms. However, the majority of AIT approaches require lengthy treatments and convey transient disease suppression, likely due to insufficient targeting of pathogenic Th2 responses. Here, the ability of allergen‐encapsulating nanoparticles to directly suppress pathogenic Th2 responses and reactivity is investigated in a mouse model of food allergy. NPs associate with pro‐tolerogenic antigen presenting cells, provoking accumulation of antigen‐specific, functionally suppressive regulatory T cells in the small intestine lamina propria. Two intravenous doses of allergen encapsulated in poly(lactide‐co‐glycolide) nanoparticles (NPs) significantly reduces oral food challenge (OFC)‐induced anaphylaxis. Importantly, NP treatment alters the fates of pathogenic allergen‐specific Th2 cells, reprogramming these cells toward CD25+FoxP3+ regulatory and CD73+FR4+ anergic phenotypes. NP‐mediated reductions in the frequency of effector cells in the gut and mast cell degranulation following OFC are also demonstrated. These studies reveal mechanisms by which an allergen‐encapsulating NP therapy and, more broadly, allergen‐specific immunotherapies, can rapidly attenuate allergic responses by targeting pathogenic Th2 cells.
COVID–19療養経過中のため診断が遅れて薬疹が重症化した1例(A case of severe drug eruption with delayed diagnosis due to COVID–19)
Authors: 駿 小林 , 志穂 齊藤 , 尚弘 山田 , 宣寿 松村 , 法子 門馬 , 信仁 根本 , 一真 森野
Published: May 2024

重症薬疹は検査結果に加えその症状と経過により診断される。今回，オンライン診療下で身体診察が不十分となり診断が遅れた重症薬疹を経験した。症例はうつ病治療中の31歳女性。精神科病院入院中，X−30日，ラモトリギン内服を開始した。X−23日，coronavirus disease 2019（COVID–19）患者に濃厚接触したため自宅療養目的に退院した。X−16日，発熱と全身の紅斑が出現した。X−15日，オンラインで処方医の定期診察を受けたが発熱と皮疹に気づかれなかった。X−5日，COVID–19に罹患したことが判明した。X−3日，発熱が続くため処方医と異なる2次医療機関に救急搬送されたがCOVID–19であるために皮疹の診察を十分に受けなかった。自宅療養を継続したが発熱と皮疹が改善しないため，X日，当院に救急搬送された。重症薬疹を疑い，被疑薬を中止しステロイドの全身投与を開始後，皮疹は経日的に改善し，X+14日に自宅退院した。本症例はCOVID–19に罹患したため，前医で全身の皮膚観察がなされず，薬疹を疑う所見の一つである播種状紅斑に気づかれなかった結果，薬疹の診断と被疑薬中止が遅れた。COVID–19流行によりオンライン診療が広く導入されているが，非対面での診察時に皮膚所見が重要と考えられる場合は，皮疹の場所や形態，その推移を含めた問診とカメラを通した視診にとくに留意すべきである。
蘇生的開胸術とステントグラフト内挿術を行ったが救命できなかった外傷性腹部大動脈瘤破裂の1例(A fatal case of traumatic ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm treated with resuscitative thoracotomy and endovascular aortic repair)
Authors: 剛 眞喜志 , 薫 原田 , 博司 長野
Published: May 2024

外傷性の腹部大動脈瘤破裂（raptured abdominal aortic aneurysm: RAAA）は稀な病態だが死亡率は高い。症例は61歳の男性。体重15kgの子供が腹部に飛び乗った後に腹痛と意識消失を呈し，ショック状態で病院に搬送された。エコーと造影CTで外傷性RAAAと診断した。ショックに対して大量輸液，輸血を行ったが循環維持が困難だったため，蘇生的開胸術を行い下行大動脈をクランプした。ハイブリッド手術室でステントグラフト内挿術（endovascular aortic repair: EVAR）を行った。EVAR完了後に腹部の緊張が増大し，腹部コンパートメント症候群を生じたと判断して開腹を行った。しかし凝固障害のために止血が困難となり，受傷から14時間後に死亡した。本症例は外傷性RAAAにおいても蘇生的開胸術は根治的治療を行うまでの循環維持に有効な手段となりうることを示しているが，その後の治療戦略は慎重に決定しなければならない。
Effects of bottom‐up factors on growth and toxin content of a harmful algae bloom dinoflagellate
Authors: Möller Kristof , Thoms Silke , Tillmann Urban , Krock Bernd , Koch Florian , Peeken Ilka , Meunier Cédric L.
Published: May 2024

The toxin‐producing dinoflagellateAlexandrium pseudogonyaulaxhas become increasingly abundant in northern European waters, replacing otherAlexandriumspecies.A. pseudogonyaulaxproduces goniodomins and lytic substances, which can be cytotoxic toward other organisms, including fish, but we still know little about the environmental conditions influencing its growth and toxicity. Here, we investigated the impacts of different nitrogen sources and light intensities, common bottom‐up drivers of bloom formation, on the growth and toxin content of threeA. pseudogonyaulaxstrains isolated from the Danish Limfjord. While the growth rates were significantly influenced by nitrogen source and light intensity, the intracellular toxin contents only showed strong differences between the exponential and stationary growth phases. Moreover, the photophysiological response ofA. pseudogonyaulaxshowed little variation across varying light intensities, while light‐harvesting pigments were significantly more abundant under low light conditions. This study additionally highlights considerable physiological variability between strains, emphasizing the importance of conducting laboratory experiments with several algal strains. A high physiological plasticity toward changing abiotic parameters points to a long‐term establishment ofA. pseudogonyaulaxin northern European waters.
Irrigation strongly influences near‐surface conditions and induces breeze circulation: Observational and model‐based evidence
Authors: Lunel Tanguy , Boone Aaron A. , Le Moigne Patrick
Published: May 2024

Irrigation is becoming increasingly common in agriculture and is essential to meet the growing demand for food. Studies of the impact of irrigated areas on local meteorology reveal a strong influence on near‐surface conditions, although the extent of this influence varies considerably between locations. In addition, though theoretical evidence suggests that irrigation can create breeze‐like atmospheric boundary‐layer circulations, observational evidence is still lacking. This study investigates the effects of irrigation on the surface and atmospheric boundary layer in the Ebro basin, an intensively irrigated area with a semi‐arid climate in northeastern Spain. Observational data from the international field campaign Land Surface Interactions with the Atmosphere over the Iberian Semi‐arid Environment are analysed together with coupled surface–atmosphere model output to better understand and quantify the impact of irrigation on the lower atmosphere. A simple parametrization of irrigation is shown to improve the accuracy of the model. Results demonstrate that irrigation increases the average latent heat flux by over 200 Wm, reduces air temperature by 4.7°C, and increases specific humidity by 50% at 2 m during the day over the irrigated region of the domain. Moreover, irrigation limits convection and strongly stabilizes the atmospheric boundary layer. Notably, the study provides evidence for an irrigation‐induced breeze from the irrigated area to the semi‐arid area. These findings highlight the importance of considering irrigation in numerical models for weather forecasting, climate modelling and sustainable agricultural planning.
Mentha suaveolens Leaves Extract‐Mediated Synthesis of CoO@TiO2 and Fe2O3@TiO2 Core/Shell Nanoparticles with Synergistic Antimicrobial and Antioxidant Activities
Authors: Hammouda Mohamed M. , Alanazi Abdulaziz A. , Elattar Khaled M.
Published: May 2024

This study reports the green synthesis of biocompatible TiO₂‐based nanoparticles using Mentha suaveolens extract as a reducing and capping agent. We successfully produced two novel nanocomposites: Fe2O3@TiO₂ and CoO@TiO₂. These nanocomposites possess distinct optical properties, enhanced surface area, and well‐defined morphologies, as revealed by advanced characterization techniques. Notably, Fe2O3@TiO₂ exhibits a red‐shifted absorption, suggesting potential for photocatalysis, sensing, or light‐harvesting applications. Furthermore, the nanocomposites displayed improved antibacterial activity against various bacterial strains compared to the M. suaveolens extract, highlighting their potential as effective and biocompatible antimicrobial agents. Our work pioneers a sustainable and one‐step approach for synthesizing versatile TiO2‐based nanocomposites with tunable functionalities. These findings open doors for developing novel materials with applications ranging from enhanced antimicrobial defenses to light‐driven technologies.
Soil microbial activity profiles associated with organic compost fertilizers in an urban garden
Authors: Zeiner Carolyn A. , Kisch Maria N. , Lynch Ethan D. , Shrestha Paliza , Small Gaston E.
Published: May 2024

Biological soil health is recognized as an important component of sustainable agriculture due to microbial biomineralization of nutrients. However, soil health can be difficult to assess consistently across urban agricultural systems due to diverse land use histories, soil heterogeneity, and lack of mechanistic links to agricultural management practices (e.g., recycled compost addition) and crop outcomes. In this study, we characterized soil microbial activity profiles in an urban agriculture system in Minnesota, USA, including microbial abundance, soil respiration, extracellular enzyme activity, and crop yield. Garden plots were fertilized with recycled organic compost (either manure or municipal) at high or low rates (ranging from 2.6 to 39 tons ha−1) targeted to crop N and P demands. Control plots received inorganic fertilizer or no fertilizer. We found that a high application rate of manure compost supported 6–10x higher basal respiration than municipal compost or inorganic fertilizer. Enzyme activity data demonstrated that soil microbial communities exhibited unique profiles of biochemical function that varied among fertilizers of different compositions. Microbial biochemical function predicted 50% of the variability in bell pepper (Capsicum annuum) yield, while soil microbial community size alone was a poor predictor of yield. Yield was highest in plots fertilized with municipal compost, outperforming inorganic fertilizer by threefold. High‐yield plots exhibited higher ratios of N to P enzyme activity compared to those with lower yield. Our findings demonstrate that “more is better” may not necessarily be true regarding soil microorganisms in biological soil health, and that measures of soil microbial biochemical function may be more important.
Pan-cancer analysis of prognostic and immunological role of IL4I1 in human tumors: a bulk omics research and single cell sequencing validation
Authors: Chen Bin , Liu Yi , He Yuping , Shen Chenfu
Published: May 2024

Background

Interleukin-4 inducible gene 1 (IL4I1) regulates tumor progression in numerous tumor types. However, its correlation with immune infiltration and prognosis of patients in a pan-cancer setting remains unclear.

Methods

Data from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), Genotype-Tissue Expression (GTEx), UALCAN, Clinical Proteomic Tumor Analysis Consortium (CPTAC), Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO), cBioPortal, Cancer Single-cell State Atlas (CancerSEA), and Tumor IMmune Estimation Resource(TIMER) databases were used to evaluate IL4I1 expression, clinical features and prognostic effects, gene set enrichment, and correlation with immune cell infiltration, as well as the relationship between IL4I1 methylation and expression and survival prognosis. Correlations with 192 anticancer drugs were also analyzed.

Results

IL4I1 was significantly overexpressed in the majority of tumors, and the imbalance of IL4I1 was significantly correlated with overall survival and pathological stage. Moreover, total IL4I1 protein was increased in cancer. Therefore, IL4I1 may be used as a prognostic biomarker or protective factor in numerous types of cancer. The methylation level of IL4I1 may also be used as a prognostic marker. The functional enrichment of IL4I1 was closely related to the immunomodulatory pathway. In addition, the level of tumor-associated macrophage infiltration was positively correlated with the expression of IL4I1 in pan-cancerous tissues. scRNA-seq analysis suggested that IL4I1 differ significantly among different cells in the tumor microenvironment and was most enriched in macrophages. Various immune checkpoint genes were positively correlated with IL4I1 expression in most tumors. In addition, patients with high IL4I1 expression may be resistant to BMS-754807 and docetaxel, but sensitive to temozolomide.

Conclusion

IL4I1 may play a role as promoter of cancer and prognostic indicator in patients. High expression of IL4I1 is associated with the state of tumor immunosuppression and may contribute to tumor-associated macrophage invasion. Therefore, IL4I1 may be a new therapeutic target for the treatment and prognosis of patients with cancer.
A Mixed Methods Pilot Study to Evaluate User Engagement with MedMicroMaps: A Novel Interactive E-learning Tool for Medical Microbiology
Authors: Harrington Jane
Published: May 2024

Educators are witnessing the unfolding of the era of artificial intelligence, raising the question of how to transfer the benefits of yesterday’s pedagogy to the future of education. An interactive digital mind map of infectious diseases was developed for second-year medical students (n = 865). Analysis of user engagement showed global distribution with 498 QR scans on a single day. Student responses (n = 79, 9.1% response rate) indicated positive feedback on the resources of Extremely Satisfied (range 65–75%, n = 59–51). The findings of the study support further expansion of MedMicroMaps to cross-platform interfaces with adaptations for diverse audiences within allied health fields.
Distributed gradient-free and projection-free algorithm for stochastic constrained optimization
Authors: Hou Jie , Zeng Xianlin , Chen Chen
Published: May 2024

Distributed stochastic zeroth-order optimization (DSZO), in which the objective function is allocated over multiple agents and the derivative of cost functions is unavailable, arises frequently in large-scale machine learning and reinforcement learning. This paper introduces a distributed stochastic algorithm for DSZO in a projection-free and gradient-free manner via the Frank-Wolfe framework and the stochastic zeroth-order oracle (SZO). Such a scheme is particularly useful in large-scale constrained optimization problems where calculating gradients or projection operators is impractical, costly, or when the objective function is not differentiable everywhere. Specifically, the proposed algorithm, enhanced by recursive momentum and gradient tracking techniques, guarantees convergence with just a single batch per iteration. This significant improvement over existing algorithms substantially lowers the computational complexity. Under mild conditions, we prove that the complexity bounds on SZO of the proposed algorithm are $\mathcal{O}(n/\epsilon ^{2})$
O
(
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2

)
and $\mathcal{O}(n(2^{\frac{1}{\epsilon}}))$
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for convex and nonconvex cases, respectively. The efficacy of the algorithm is verified on black-box binary classification problems against several competing alternatives.
National wealth, cultural moderators and pollution mortality: a panel analysis of 170 countries
Authors: Malik Tariq H. , Yazar Orhan H. , Yang Zhixuan
Published: May 2024

Global concerns have arisen due to pollution-related mortality, and scholars studying the Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC) have explored the impact of economic growth on carbon emissions, yielding conflicting findings. Considering these opposing perspectives on whether wealth exacerbates or mitigates the negative consequences of environmental pollution, we aim to assess the influence of economic growth on pollution-related mortality and investigate whether national culture moderates its impact. To gain insights into the effects of economic growth on pollution-related mortality, we utilized panel data covering 170 countries over a span of 23 years (1996–2017). Initially, we examined the relationship between GDP per capita and pollution-related mortality, finding support for the theory of a curvilinear correlation but not for the concept of a bell-shaped curve. Upon introducing cultural moderators, the curve shifts in different directions along various dimensions. High power distance and masculinity cultures are associated with increased pollution-related mortality, whereas individualist and long-term orientation cultures are linked to reduced pollution-related mortality. The directions of these moderators align with both linear and nonlinear analyses, except for uncertainty avoidance. This study makes significant contributions to the critical issue of pollution-related mortality, extending beyond traditional sustainability analyses. Additionally, it provides a robust examination of the intertwining of economic wealth and culture, challenging the dominance of either type of logic. Lastly, our study draws attention to policy-driven solutions.
Advances in molecular interactions between rice and insect herbivores
Authors: Kuai Peng , Lou Yonggen
Published: May 2024

To adapt to each other, plants and insect herbivores have developed sophisticated molecular interactions. Here, we summarize current knowledge about such molecular interactions between rice, a globally important food crop, and insect herbivores. When infested by insect herbivores, rice perceives herbivore- and/or damage-associated molecular patterns (HAMPs/DAMPs) via receptors that activate early signaling events such as the influx of Ca2+, the burst of reactive oxygen species, and the activation of MPK cascades. These changes result in specific rice defenses via signaling networks that mainly include phytohormones (jasmonic acid, salicylic acid, ethylene, and abscisic acid) and transcription factors. Some compounds, including flavonoids, phenolamides, defensive proteins, and herbivore-induced rice volatiles, have been reported to be used by rice against insects. Insect herbivores can deliver effectors or factors to inhibit rice defenses or enhance rice susceptibility. Although the number of HAMPs and defense-suppressing effectors from rice piercing-sucking insects has increased rapidly, none from rice chewing insects has been identified. Moreover, herbivore effectors or factors that induce rice susceptibility, and rice immune receptors recognizing HAMPs or effectors, are not well characterized. We point out future research directions in this area and highlight the importance of elucidating the mechanisms for rice sensing of insect herbivores and for insect counter-defenses against plants.
Glutamine-derived aspartate is required for eIF5A hypusination-mediated translation of HIF-1α to induce the polarization of tumor-associated macrophages
Authors: Kim Dong-Ho , Kang Yoo Na , Jin Jonghwa , Park Mihyang , Kim Daehoon , Yoon Ghilsuk , Yun Jae Won , Lee Jaebon , Park Soo Young , Lee Yu Rim , Byun Jun-Kyu , Choi Yeon-Kyung , Park Keun-Gyu
Published: May 2024

Tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) are vital contributors to the growth, metastasis, and therapeutic resistance of various cancers, including hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, the exact phenotype of TAMs and the mechanisms underlying their modulation for therapeutic purposes have not been determined. Here, we present compelling evidence that glutamine-derived aspartate in TAMs stimulates spermidine production through the polyamine synthesis pathway, thereby increasing the translation efficiency of HIF-1α via eIF5A hypusination. Consequently, augmented translation of HIF-1α drives TAMs to undergo an increase glycolysis and acquire a metabolic phenotype distinct from that of M2 macrophages. Finally, eIF5A levels in tumor stromal lesions were greater than those in nontumor stromal lesions. Additionally, a higher degree of tumor stromal eIF5A hypusination was significantly associated with a more advanced tumor stage. Taken together, these data highlight the potential of inhibiting hypusinated eIF5A by targeting glutamine metabolism in TAMs, thereby opening a promising avenue for the development of novel therapeutic approaches for HCC.