bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Potential of matoa seeds (Pometia pinnata) as a biodiesel raw material
Authors: Sholiha F U , Yuniastuti E
Published: August 2024

Matoa (Pometia pinnata J.R.Forst. & G.Forst) is an origin species from Papua, widely cultivated around Indonesia. Matoa seeds have gained attention because of their fatty acid content, which can be used as a biodiesel raw material. This study aims to determine the quality of manta seeds as an alternative biodiesel development in Indonesia. Oil extraction used the Soxhlet method and then tested based on the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM). The results showed that the yield oil of mature seeds was 22,37%. In contrast, the quality of matoa seed oil was based on colour (ASTM D 1500), kinematic viscosity at 40°C (ASTM D 445), pour point (ASTM D 97), and water content had met the SNI standard in the other side, the specific gravity (ASTM D 1298) and cloud point (ASTM D 97) were below the SNI standard. Based on the results, matoa seeds oil can be used as biodiesel raw material for future sustainable energy but needs further development.
Laser-assisted bioprinting of targeted cartilaginous spheroids for high density bottom-up tissue engineering
Authors: Hall Gabriella Nilsson , Fan Yuchao , Viellerobe Bertrand , Iazzolino Antonio , Dimopoulos Andreas , Poiron Claire , Clapies Aude , Luyten Frank P , Guillemot Fabien , Papantoniou Ioannis
Published: August 2024

Multicellular spheroids such as microtissues and organoids have demonstrated great potential for tissue engineering applications in recent years as these 3D cellular units enable improved cell–cell and cell–matrix interactions. Current bioprinting processes that use multicellular spheroids as building blocks have demonstrated limited control on post printing distribution of cell spheroids or moderate throughput and printing efficiency. In this work, we presented a laser-assisted bioprinting approach able to transfer multicellular spheroids as building blocks for larger tissue structures. Cartilaginous multicellular spheroids formed by human periosteum derived cells (hPDCs) were successfully bioprinted possessing high viability and the capacity to undergo chondrogenic differentiation post printing. Smaller hPDC spheroids with diameters ranging from ∼100 to 150 µm were successfully bioprinted through the use of laser-induced forward transfer method (LIFT) however larger spheroids constituted a challenge. For this reason a novel alternative approach was developed termed as laser induced propulsion of mesoscopic objects (LIPMO) whereby we were able to bioprint spheroids of up to 300 µm. Moreover, we combined the bioprinting process with computer aided image analysis demonstrating the capacity to ‘target and shoot’, through automated selection, multiple large spheroids in a single sequence. By taking advantage of target and shoot system, multilayered constructs containing high density cell spheroids were fabricated.
Anisotropic effects in the nondipole relativistic photoionization of hydrogen
Authors: Vembe J E , Førre M
Published: August 2024

In the nonrelativistic and dipole regime of multiphoton ionization, spherical symmetry in all but the polarization direction of the laser pulse ensures that directional dependency in the photoelectron spectra is limited to the laser polarization direction, with the final distribution exhibiting no asymmetry along the propagation direction of the laser. When relativistic effects and spatial dependency in the external potential are accounted for however, the addition of time dilation and radiation pressure both impose anisotropic effects. Previously we have found that nondipole effects induce a redshift in the photoelectron energy distribution, while conversely relativistic effects induce a blueshift, with the net effect of an apparent near-cancellation of the two. In this work we study these effects further. By examining photoelectron momentum distributions acquired from simulations with the time-dependent Dirac equation we propose explanatory models for both phenomena and present a simplified model of the shifts as a function of the angle relative to the propagation direction of the laser pulse. It is found that both nondipole and relativistic effects must be accounted for on an equal footing in order to correctly describe the photoelectron momentum distribution in the high-intensity regime.
Synthesis and growth of solution-processed chiral perovskites
Authors: Driessen Sander , Sarigul-Ozbek Sevgi , Sutter-Fella Carolin M , Tao Shuxia
Published: August 2024

In materials science, chiral perovskites stand out due to their exceptional optoelectronic properties and the versatility in their structure and composition, positioning them as crucial in the advances of technologies in spintronics and chiroptical systems. This review underlines the critical role of synthesizing and growing these materials, a process integral to leveraging their complex interplay between structural chirality and distinctive optoelectronic properties, including chiral-induced spin selectivity and chiroptical activity. The paper offers a comprehensive summary and discussion of the methods used in the synthesis and growth of chiral perovskites, delving into extensive growth techniques, fundamental mechanisms, and strategic approaches for the engineering of low-dimensional perovskites, alongside the creation of novel chiral ligands. The necessity of developing new synthetic approaches and maintaining precise control during the growth of chiral perovskites is emphasized, aiming to enhance their structural chirality and boost their efficiency in spin and chiroptical selectivity.
Measurement of the water absorption on hybrid carbon fibre prepreg waste composite and its impact on flexural performance
Authors: Ahmad Shukri Ahmad Ashari , Nosbi Norlin , Omar Mohd Firdaus , Md Saleh Siti Shuhadah , Othman Muhammad Bisyrul Hafi , Najib Norazwana Mohd , Wan Ali Wan Fahmin Faiz
Published: August 2024

Carbon fibre (CF) prepreg, essential to composites and aircraft, generates waste known as carbon fibre prepreg waste (CFW) due to its limited lifespan. This study investigates recycling CFW through hybridization, milling it into powder and mixing it with epoxy resin and alumina to form hybrid composites. Using Minitab software, optimal compositions were determined from 13 and 20 experimental designs for CFW-EP and CFW-EP-AL, respectively. Results identified 2.5 wt% CFW and 97.5 wt% epoxy resin as optimal for CFW-EP, and 2.5 wt% CFW, 2.5 wt% alumina, and 95 wt% epoxy resin as optimal for CFW-EP-AL. Samples of epoxy resin polymer (EP), carbon prepreg waste reinforced composite (CFW-EP), and carbon prepreg waste reinforced with alumina composite (CFW-EP-AL) were fabricated and tested for moisture absorption and flexural strength, revealing noticeable deterioration over time. These findings highlight the importance of compositional analysis in developing sustainable materials with optimal flexural strength for various applications.
‘Eenheid and Apartheid’
Authors: Fossati Marta
Published: August 2024

This chapter reads the short stories by Mtutuzeli Matshoba—Call Me Not a Man (1979)—and by Ahmed Essop—The Hajji and Other Stories (1978) and Noorjehan and Other Stories (1990)—focusing on the formal tension between unity and difference inherent in the genre of the short-story cycle. The chapter challenges and complicates the polarized readings of the two authors—both influenced by Black Consciousness—without erasing the difference between their short stories, which represent the Black and Indian communities of South Africa respectively. It also considers the new publishing scene in South Africa, in particular the birth of independent publishing houses such as Ravan Press and its influential magazine Staffrider. Disrupting linear chronology, this chapter finally discusses Essop’s two post-apartheid short-story cycles, The King of Hearts and Other Stories (1997) and Narcissus  and Other Stories (2002), which point to new ethical and aesthetical concerns in South African writing.
Burials, Exhumations, and Textual Tombs
Authors: Lawlor Hannie
Published: August 2024

Chapter 4 turns to narrative negotiations of the painful pull between proximity and distance as mother–daughter relationships are re-created in writing in the wake of loss. It compares Milena Busquets’s autofictional work También esto pasará (This Too Shall Pass) (2015), written in response to the death of the author’s mother following a lengthy battle with Parkinson’s disease, and Sophie Daull’s account of the sudden, traumatic loss of her daughter in Camille, mon envolée (Camille, My Departed One) (2015), with reference, too, to Daull’s subsequent account of the death of her mother in La Suture (The Stitch) (2016). From the shared endeavour that emerges across these narratives of grief to make present perspectives that are missing, the chapter explores the narrative strategies that serve to construct something like a continuing dialogue, a narrative coexistence with the lost loved one.
Impact of a pharmacist-led collaborative approach to care for treatment of COVID-19 in the outpatient setting
Authors: Potter Jessica , Chlasta Rachel , Miyama Kelle , Thompson-Moore Nathaniel , Blem Chris , Wargo Ryan , Suzuki Marina , Grando Holman Yvette
Published: August 2024

Purpose

The SARS-CoV-2 virus, causing COVID-19, remains a threat to patients and healthcare systems across the country. Oral antiviral therapy is available to reduce risk of patient hospitalization and death; however, limited access to medications, complex drug interactions, and the importance of timeliness in initiating therapy have proven to be challenging. This report aims to describe a pharmacist-driven telehealth service that provided safe and efficient access to antivirals for the treatment of COVID-19 and assess the population impacted.

This observational study was conducted from January 2022 to September 2023, during which time a COVID-19 pharmacist referral hub was utilized at Legacy Health. Patients documented to be positive for COVID-19 infection and who had a primary care provider within Legacy Health were included in the study. Demographics and descriptive data regarding antiviral prescribing for patients who were managed by an ambulatory care pharmacist were assessed. Patient demographics were statistically compared between groups to investigate antiviral access for marginalized populations. A total of 22,983 unique COVID-19 infections occurred during the study period, and ambulatory care pharmacists within Legacy Health managed 19.8% of all documented COVID-19 infections in our study population. The pharmacy team generated 3,820 antiviral prescriptions for treatment of COVID-19. The median time from symptom onset to antiviral prescription was 1 day.

Conclusion

This pharmacist-led telehealth service had a significant impact in expanding access to COVID-19 antiviral treatment, which is pivotal in broadening access to timely COVID-19 antiviral treatment for all vulnerable patient groups when resources are limited.
Attribute-guided prototype network for few-shot molecular property prediction
Authors: Hou Linlin , Xiang Hongxin , Zeng Xiangxiang , Cao Dongsheng , Zeng Li , Song Bosheng
Published: August 2024

The molecular property prediction (MPP) plays a crucial role in the drug discovery process, providing valuable insights for molecule evaluation and screening. Although deep learning has achieved numerous advances in this area, its success often depends on the availability of substantial labeled data. The few-shot MPP is a more challenging scenario, which aims to identify unseen property with only few available molecules. In this paper, we propose an attribute-guided prototype network (APN) to address the challenge. APN first introduces an molecular attribute extractor, which can not only extract three different types of fingerprint attributes (single fingerprint attributes, dual fingerprint attributes, triplet fingerprint attributes) by considering seven circular-based, five path-based, and two substructure-based fingerprints, but also automatically extract deep attributes from self-supervised learning methods. Furthermore, APN designs the Attribute-Guided Dual-channel Attention module to learn the relationship between the molecular graphs and attributes and refine the local and global representation of the molecules. Compared with existing works, APN leverages high-level human-defined attributes and helps the model to explicitly generalize knowledge in molecular graphs. Experiments on benchmark datasets show that APN can achieve state-of-the-art performance in most cases and demonstrate that the attributes are effective for improving few-shot MPP performance. In addition, the strong generalization ability of APN is verified by conducting experiments on data from different domains.
MetaFluAD: meta-learning for predicting antigenic distances among influenza viruses
Authors: Jia Qitao , Xia Yuanling , Dong Fanglin , Li Weihua
Published: August 2024

Influenza viruses rapidly evolve to evade previously acquired human immunity. Maintaining vaccine efficacy necessitates continuous monitoring of antigenic differences among strains. Traditional serological methods for assessing these differences are labor-intensive and time-consuming, highlighting the need for efficient computational approaches. This paper proposes MetaFluAD, a meta-learning-based method designed to predict quantitative antigenic distances among strains. This method models antigenic relationships between strains, represented by their hemagglutinin (HA) sequences, as a weighted attributed network. Employing a graph neural network (GNN)-based encoder combined with a robust meta-learning framework, MetaFluAD learns comprehensive strain representations within a unified space encompassing both antigenic and genetic features. Furthermore, the meta-learning framework enables knowledge transfer across different influenza subtypes, allowing MetaFluAD to achieve remarkable performance with limited data. MetaFluAD demonstrates excellent performance and overall robustness across various influenza subtypes, including A/H3N2, A/H1N1, A/H5N1, B/Victoria, and B/Yamagata. MetaFluAD synthesizes the strengths of GNN-based encoding and meta-learning to offer a promising approach for accurate antigenic distance prediction. Additionally, MetaFluAD can effectively identify dominant antigenic clusters within seasonal influenza viruses, aiding in the development of effective vaccines and efficient monitoring of viral evolution.
A computational approach to developing a multi-epitope vaccine for combating Pseudomonas aeruginosa–induced pneumonia and sepsis
Authors: Roy Suronjit Kumar , Biswas Mohammad Shahangir , Foyzur Raman Md , Hasan Rubait , Rahmann Zahidur , Uddin PK Md Moyen
Published: August 2024

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a complex nosocomial infectious agent responsible for numerous illnesses, with its growing resistance variations complicating treatment development. Studies have emphasized the importance of virulence factors OprE and OprF in pathogenesis, highlighting their potential as vaccine candidates. In this study, B-cell, MHC-I, and MHC-II epitopes were identified, and molecular linkers were active to join these epitopes with an appropriate adjuvant to construct a vaccine. Computational tools were employed to forecast the tertiary framework, characteristics, and also to confirm the vaccine’s composition. The potency was weighed through population coverage analysis and immune simulation. This project aims to create a multi-epitope vaccine to reduce P. aeruginosa–related illness and mortality using immunoinformatics resources. The ultimate complex has been determined to be stable, soluble, antigenic, and non-allergenic upon inspection of its physicochemical and immunological properties. Additionally, the protein exhibited acidic and hydrophilic characteristics. The Ramachandran plot, ProSA-web, ERRAT, and Verify3D were employed to ensure the final model’s authenticity once the protein’s three-dimensional structure had been established and refined. The vaccine model showed a significant binding score and stability when interacting with MHC receptors. Population coverage analysis indicated a global coverage rate of 83.40%, with the USA having the highest coverage rate, exceeding 90%. Moreover, the vaccine sequence underwent codon optimization before being cloned into the Escherichia coli plasmid vector pET-28a (+) at the EcoRI and EcoRV restriction sites. Our research has developed a vaccine against P. aeruginosa that has strong binding affinity and worldwide coverage, offering an acceptable way to mitigate nosocomial infections.
ceas: an R package for Seahorse data analysis and visualization
Authors: House Rachel (Rae) J , Eapen James P , Shen Hui , Graveel Carrie R , Steensma Matthew R
Published: August 2024

Measuring cellular energetics is essential to understanding a matrix’s (e.g. cell, tissue, or biofluid) metabolic state. The Agilent Seahorse machine is a common method to measure real-time cellular energetics, but existing analysis tools are highly manual or lack functionality. The Cellular Energetics Analysis Software (ceas) R package fills this analytical gap by providing modular and automated Seahorse data analysis and visualization.

Availability and implementation

ceas is available on CRAN (https://cran.r-project.org/package=ceas). Source code and installable tarballs are freely available for download at https://github.com/jamespeapen/ceas/releases/ under the MIT license. Package documentation may be found at https://jamespeapen.github.io/ceas/. ceas is implemented in R and is supported on macOS, Windows and Linux.
Advancing mRNA subcellular localization prediction with graph neural network and RNA structure
Authors: Li Fuyi , Bi Yue , Guo Xudong , Tan Xiaolan , Wang Cong , Pan Shirui
Published: August 2024

Motivation

The asymmetrical distribution of expressed mRNAs tightly controls the precise synthesis of proteins within human cells. This non-uniform distribution, a cornerstone of developmental biology, plays a pivotal role in numerous cellular processes. To advance our comprehension of gene regulatory networks, it is essential to develop computational tools for accurately identifying the subcellular localizations of mRNAs. However, considering multi-localization phenomena remains limited in existing approaches, with none considering the influence of RNA’s secondary structure.

Results

In this study, we propose Allocator, a multi-view parallel deep learning framework that seamlessly integrates the RNA sequence-level and structure-level information, enhancing the prediction of mRNA multi-localization. The Allocator models equip four efficient feature extractors, each designed to handle different inputs. Two are tailored for sequence-based inputs, incorporating multilayer perceptron and multi-head self-attention mechanisms. The other two are specialized in processing structure-based inputs, employing graph neural networks. Benchmarking results underscore Allocator’s superiority over state-of-the-art methods, showcasing its strength in revealing intricate localization associations.

Availability and implementation

The webserver of Allocator is available at http://Allocator.unimelb-biotools.cloud.edu.au; the source code and datasets are available on GitHub (https://github.com/lifuyi774/Allocator) and Zenodo (https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.13235798).
Serotonin transporter knockout in rats reduces beta- and gamma-band functional connectivity between the orbitofrontal cortex and amygdala during auditory discrimination
Authors: Boillot Morgane , ter Horst Jordi , López José Rey , Di Fazio Ilaria , Steens Indra L M , Cohen Michael X , Homberg Judith R
Published: August 2024

The orbitofrontal cortex and amygdala collaborate in outcome-guided decision-making through reciprocal projections. While serotonin transporter knockout (SERT−/−) rodents show changes in outcome-guided decision-making, and in orbitofrontal cortex and amygdala neuronal activity, it remains unclear whether SERT genotype modulates orbitofrontal cortex–amygdala synchronization. We trained SERT−/− and SERT+/+ male rats to execute a task requiring to discriminate between two auditory stimuli, one predictive of a reward (CS+) and the other not (CS−), by responding through nose pokes in opposite-side ports. Overall, task acquisition was not influenced by genotype. Next, we simultaneously recorded local field potentials in the orbitofrontal cortex and amygdala of both hemispheres while the rats performed the task. Behaviorally, SERT−/− rats showed a nonsignificant trend for more accurate responses to the CS−. Electrophysiologically, orbitofrontal cortex—amygdala synchronization in the beta and gamma frequency bands during response selection was significantly reduced and associated with decreased hubness and clustering coefficient in both regions in SERT−/− rats compared to SERT+/+ rats. Conversely, theta synchronization at the time of behavioral response in the port associated with reward was similar in both genotypes. Together, our findings reveal the modulation by SERT genotype of the orbitofrontal cortex—amygdala functional connectivity during an auditory discrimination task.
The life history consequences of host switching in Ooencyrtus egeria (Hymenoptera: Encyrtidae), a parasitoid of stink bug eggs
Authors: Sedigh Hadis , Michaud J P , Ranjbar Fateme , Jalali M Amin , Ziaaddini Mahdi
Published: August 2024

The stink bugs Acrosternum arabicum Wagner and Brachynema germari Kolenati (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae) damage developing pistachio nuts in Iran. Ooencyrtus egeria Huang and Noyes (Hymenoptera: Encyrtidae) parasitizes eggs of both species, alternating between them seasonally. We compared the biological and life history attributes of O. egeria reared for 3 generations on each host species with those that had been transferred to the alternate host for 2 generations. We also tested female responses to host egg density. Eggs of B. germari were parasitized at higher rates and yielded faster wasp development, heavier female progeny with greater fecundity, and a more female-biased sex ratio, than eggs of A. arabicum. Rearing on A. arabicum did not diminish wasp fitness on B. germari, and the F1 progeny of wasps switched to A. arabicum inherited some beneficial parental effects from rearing on B. germari. Regardless of host species, females parasitized fewer eggs in 8 h as density increased from 10 to 30 eggs, but progeny sex ratio (% female) increased. The anomalous response to host density appears to arise from a combination of behavioral and egg load constraints. Females mature only 10–12 eggs per day. Carefully inspect egg clusters before selecting the most suitable eggs for oviposition, a more time-consuming process for large clusters. Our results indicate that rearing O. egeria on eggs of A. arabicum, which are more convenient and cost-effective to produce than those of B. germari, will not diminish its performance on B. germari following augmentative release, beyond a slight reduction in female fecundity.
Home inotrope therapy in chronic stimulant-induced cardiomyopathy: a case series
Authors: Joseph Max , Batra Sejal , Kamran Wali , Barrett Kelsey , Ebert Barbara , Nassar Ahmed , Misselbeck Timothy , Hawwa Nael
Published: August 2024

Background

Patients with chronic stimulant-induced cardiomyopathy presenting with cardiogenic shock can be stabilized with conventional measures. However, their management post-stabilization has not been well described and poses unique challenges: (i) less chance of myocardial recovery compared to acute stimulant-induced cardiomyopathy, (ii) psychosocial barriers to left ventricular assist device (LVAD) and heart transplantation, and (iii) concern for use of peripherally inserted central catheter for home inotrope in those with a history of substance abuse.

Case summary

Three patients with chronic stimulant-induced cardiomyopathy were admitted with cardiogenic shock progressing to Society for Cardiovascular Angiography & Interventions stage D or E. They were stabilized with inotrope and/or biventricular mechanical circulatory support. Long-term home inotrope was used as either a bridge to LVAD, reverse remodelling, or stabilization.

Discussion

Home inotrope should be viewed as an option in chronic stimulant-induced cardiomyopathy on a case-by-case basis. It can buy time to allow for myocardial stabilization or recovery through goal-directed medical therapy and stimulant cessation. It can also serve as a ‘psychosocial stress test’ for future consideration of advanced heart failure therapies.
Mating systems and recombination landscape strongly shape genetic diversity and selection in wheat relatives
Authors: Burgarella Concetta , Brémaud Marie-Fleur , Von Hirschheydt Gesa , Viader Veronique , Ardisson Morgane , Santoni Sylvain , Ranwez Vincent , de Navascués Miguel , David Jacques , Glémin Sylvain
Published: August 2024

How and why genetic diversity varies among species is a long-standing question in evolutionary biology. Life history traits have been shown to explain a large part of observed diversity. Among them, mating systems have one of the strongest impacts on genetic diversity, with selfing species usually exhibiting much lower diversity than outcrossing relatives. Theory predicts that a high rate of selfing amplifies selection at linked sites, reducing genetic diversity genome-wide, but frequent bottlenecks and rapid population turn-over could also explain low genetic diversity in selfers. However, how linked selection varies with mating systems and whether it is sufficient to explain the observed difference between selfers and outcrossers has never been tested. Here, we used the Aegilops/Triticum grass species, a group characterized by contrasted mating systems (from obligate outcrossing to high selfing) and marked recombination rate variation across the genome, to quantify the effects of mating system and linked selection on patterns of neutral and selected polymorphism. By analyzing phenotypic and transcriptomic data of 13 species, we show that selfing strongly affects genetic diversity and the efficacy of selection by amplifying the intensity of linked selection genome-wide. In particular, signatures of adaptation were only found in the highly recombining regions in outcrossing species. These results bear implications for the evolution of mating systems and, more generally, for our understanding of the fundamental drivers of genetic diversity.
Pathogen infection alters the gene expression landscape of transposable elements in Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Mostoufi Sabrina L , Singh Nadia D
Published: August 2024

Transposable elements make up substantial proportions of eukaryotic genomes and many are thought to be remnants of ancient viral infections. Current research has begun to highlight the role transposable elements can play in the immune system response to infections. However, most of our knowledge about transposable element expression during infection is limited by the specific host and pathogen factors from each study, making it difficult to compare studies and develop broader patterns regarding the role of transposable elements during infection. Here, we use the tools and resources available in the model, Drosophila melanogaster, to analyze multiple gene expression datasets of flies subject to bacterial, fungal, and viral infections. We analyzed differences in pathogen species, host genotype, host tissue, and sex to understand how these factors impact transposable element expression during infection. Our results highlight both shared and unique transposable element expression patterns between pathogens and suggest a larger effect of pathogen factors over host factors for influencing transposable element expression.
Comparison of the filtration performance of konjac glucomannan-based aerogel and cellulose acetate
Authors: Zhong Lin , Shi Fengcheng , Yang Jiaren , Qian Hong , Zhou Jian , Niu Yanli , Zhang Ting , Jiang Fatang
Published: August 2024

Konjac glucomannan (KGM)-based aerogel was used as filtration material to compare filtration performance with conventional cellulose acetate (CA). KGM-based aerogel showed a three-dimensional network structure and higher specific surface area and porosity, providing a longer channel and larger adsorption interface for smoke stream and promoting the multidirectional interception for particulate matters (PMs), which was superior to the parallel fiber structure of CA. The smoke analyzer based on leaf burning was utilized to detect the filtration performance. KGM-based aerogel was significantly better than CA for total PMs, nicotine, and tar interception, with an increase of 11.6%, 22.4%, and 10.3%, respectively.
A Comparative Study of Public Support for the Zero-COVID Policy in Beijing, Taipei and Singapore: The Role of Media Attention and Perceived Social Impact
Authors: Wei Ran , Lo Ven-hwei , Zhang Xiao , Guo Jing , Yu Wenting
Published: August 2024

Asian governments employed drastically different strategies—zero-infection versus living with coronavirus disease (COVID-19)—to balance control of the global pandemic and minimize disruption. This study examines inter-society differences in public responses to their government’s anti-pandemic policies of zero-COVID strategy in China and neighboring societies. Three parallel telephone surveys were conducted in summer 2022 with a combined sample of 3,106 respondents in Beijing, Singapore, and Taipei. Findings provide a snapshot of public opinion toward zero-COVID policy in the late stage of the pandemic. Levels of strictness of pandemic-control measures across the 3 societies were found to be related to the public’s attention to the policy, its perceived social impact, and the extent to which they would support the policy. Furthermore, whether public attention enhanced or diminished the perception of its impact or support, and how these relationships changed depended on local circumstances. Chinese respondents in Beijing perceived their government’s unwavering zero-tolerance policy as having a low impact and tended to support the strict policy. Singaporeans living under the co-living policy viewed the zero-case strategy as disruptive and were less willing to support it.
The Pogorelov Estimates for Degenerate Curvature Equations
Authors: Jiao Heming , Jiao Yang
Published: August 2024

We establish the Pogorelov-type estimates for degenerate prescribed $k$-curvature equations as well as $k$-Hessian equations. Furthermore, we investigate the interior $C^{1,1}$ regularity of the solutions for Dirichlet problems. These techniques also enable us to improve the existence theorem for an asymptotic Plateau-type problem in hyperbolic space.
Curvature Estimates for Stable Free Boundary Minimal Hypersurfaces in Locally Wedge-Shaped Manifolds
Authors: Mazurowski Liam , Wang Tongrui
Published: August 2024

In this paper, we consider locally wedge-shaped manifolds, which are Riemannian manifolds that are allowed to have both boundary and certain types of edges. We define and study the properties of free boundary minimal hypersurfaces inside locally wedge-shaped manifolds. In particular, we show a compactness theorem for free boundary minimal hypersurfaces with curvature and area bounds in a locally wedge-shaped manifold. Additionally, using Schoen–Simon–Yau’s estimates, we also prove a Bernstein-type theorem indicating that, under certain conditions, a stable free boundary minimal hypersurface inside a Euclidean wedge must be a portion of a hyperplane. As our main application, we establish a curvature estimate for sufficiently regular free boundary minimal hypersurfaces in a locally wedge-shaped manifold with certain wedge angle assumptions. We expect this curvature estimate will be useful for establishing a min-max theory for the area functional in wedge-shaped spaces.
Global Treaties and Domestic Politics: Do Bilateral Investment Treaties Constrain Taxation in Developing Countries?
Authors: Bodea Cristina , Chen Jia , Kerner Andrew , Ye Fangjin
Published: August 2024

Bilateral investment treaties (BITs) define a set of investors’ rights and allow foreign investors to sue countries for policies that breach them. Political scientists typically study the extent to which that chastens policymaking in the context of health and environmental rules. We extend that literature to tax policy. We argue and show that BITs limit developing country governments’ tax intake. We further argue that umbrella clauses are an important driver of these dynamics. Umbrella clauses extend BITs’ protection to side agreements that are often more constraining than the BITs themselves and are typical in developing country resource extraction projects. Umbrella clauses’ tax-inhibiting effects are significant because resource revenues are important to developing countries’ public finance systems. Any assessment of BIT’s developmental benefits should consider their fiscal impact alongside their potential to attract capital inflows.
A theoretical study on Krauklis wave characteristics
Authors: Liu Haihao , Zhou Hui , Kong Liyun , Ma Yanyan
Published: August 2024

The Krauklis wave is a special seismic phenomenon in fluid saturated fracture medium. The wave can prompt a unique resonance effect and enhance the amplitude at special frequencies. These frequencies have a quantitative relationship with the fracture geometry parameters and can be used for quantitative interpretation of geometry parameters. Such frequency information can be transmitted to body waves by the transformation between the Krauklis wave and the body wave. Both P- and S-waves become frequency dependent. In this study, an original numerical method is brought out to solve the equation of the Krauklis wave dispersion relation. The method has fine computational performance, and the frequency band for numerical solution is extended to the megahertz level. The dispersion, resonance, and attenuation of the Krauklis wave can be analyzed within the entire frequency range for Krauklis wave existence. What is more, the formation mechanism, existence, and observability are illuminated. The analysis shows that there are upper limits of frequency and fracture aperture for Krauklis wave existence, but within the frequency band for artificial seismic and micro-seismic exploration, the Krauklis wave exists widely. For experimental research, the frequency and fracture aperture should be well designed to ensure the generation of the Krauklis wave. The attenuation of the Krauklis wave can suppress the resonance effect. The influence of the attenuation should be taken into account, when the wave is used for seismic characterization of fracture reservoirs or micro-seismic monitoring of hydraulic fracturing.
Five unaddressed questions about cytokinin biosynthesis
Authors: Sakakibara Hitoshi
Published: August 2024

Cytokinins, a class of phytohormones, play crucial roles in regulating plant growth and stress responses through finely tuned feedback loops involving metabolic and signaling cascades. Over the past 25 years, studies have identified key genes involved in cytokinin biosynthesis and inactivation pathways. Nevertheless, several gaps remain in our understanding, particularly regarding the movement of intermediate metabolites between subcellular compartments and the discrepancy between the products of adenosine phosphate-isopentenyltransferase (IPT) and the substrate preferences of subsequent reactions. Recent gene discoveries related to lonely guy (LOG)-independent pathways suggest a spatial extension of cytokinin biosynthesis into the apoplast. Other intriguing issues remain to be addressed, such as elucidating the synthetic pathway for cis-zeatin and unraveling the molecular mechanisms governing selective substrate use by the cytokinin biosynthetic enzyme Tumor morphology root (Tmr) from the phytopathogen Agrobacterium tumefaciens. Further studies are needed to reveal a fully comprehensive picture of cytokinin metabolism.
How to Do Without Encroachment
Authors: Moss Sarah
Published: August 2024

This paper defends a version of epistemic contextualism that accounts for the ordinary judgements and theoretical principles that motivate pragmatic encroachment. Adopting this contextualist view, we can avoid the counterintuitive consequences of pragmatic encroachment, while still preserving its attractive applications.
Empirical instability strip for pre-He WD in EL CVn type binary systems
Authors: Çakırlı Ö , Hoyman B , Özdarcan O
Published: August 2024

We present the Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS) photometry and high-resolution spectra of the EL CVn-type systems, which consists of an A/F-type main-sequence (MS) star and a hotter low-mass helium white dwarf precursor (pre-He WD). In the spectral analysis, double-lined radial velocities (RVs) were obtained for the first time. From a simultaneous analysis of the TESS light and RV curves, the masses, radii, and temperatures of each component were determined. We applied multiple frequency analyses to the residual light curve after subtracting the binarity effects and detected independent frequencies. We found that the low-frequency region’s frequencies resembled those of $\delta$ Sct-type stars, while the high-frequency region’s frequencies (100–300 d$^{-1}$) likely correspond to pre-He WD components. According to our research, we found that in nine systems, the primary star with higher mass showed pulsation characteristics similar to a $\delta$-Sct-type. In only three systems, the hotter secondary components consisted of a pre-He WD with high-frequency pulsations. We examine the purity of pre-He WD instability strip by studying several EL CVn-type systems. Additionally, we propose new boundaries for the empirical instability strips of pre-He WDs.
The polymorphic top-shell puzzle: iterative taxonomy of Calliostoma Swainson, 1840 (Gastropoda: Calliostomatidae), in the Mediterranean Sea
Authors: Chiappa Giacomo , Fassio Giulia , Smriglio Carlo , Mariottini Paolo , Albano Paolo G , Modica Maria Vittoria , Zuccon Dario , Puillandre Nicolas , Oliverio Marco
Published: August 2024

Calliostoma Swainson, 1840, as currently conceived, is the most species-rich genus of the order Trochida, with over 350 recognized species worldwide. The shell variability in these vetigastropods is extremely high, resulting in conflicting taxonomic attributions at both the genus and species levels. In the Mediterranean Sea, the remarkable morphological diversity of the Calliostoma top shells has led to the description of dozens of different taxa, of which nine are currently accepted. This taxonomic framework was tested using an iterative taxonomic approach. Species delimitation (using assemble species by automatic partitioning, clade monophyly and Kimura-2-parameter distances) and phylogenetic analyses (maximum likelihood and Bayesian inference) were carried out on 247 specimens from the Mediterranean and neighbouring Atlantic, including eight Mediterranean species and the Azorean C. lividum, spanning a large part of the morphological diversity and geographic distribution of the genus in the area. The molecular dataset comprised one nuclear marker, internal transcribed spacer 2 (ITS 2), and two mitochondrial markers (cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 and 16S ribosomal RNA). Results indicate that the number of species is overestimated, as only C. conulus, C. granulatum, C. zizyphinum and C. laugieri are supported by molecular data among the assessed species. It is suggested that the morphological characters commonly used to diagnose species are variable within a single taxon, as three nominal taxa, allegedly endemic to the Mediterranean Sea, are here shown to be a single genetic species (C. laugieri). An ITS 2 2D folding structure is also reported as potentially distinctive for calliostomatids, compared to known Vetigastropoda. Our study indicates that to address the taxonomy of calliostomatid top shells, an integrative approach including molecular data is highly advisable to support species delimitation and especially new species description.
A human embryonic stem cell–based model reveals the cell of origin of FOXR2-activated CNS neuroblastoma
Authors: Royston Hitomi N , Hampton Autumn B , Bhagat Dhruv , Pinto Evonne F , Emerson Miriam D , Funato Kosuke
Published: August 2024

Background

FOXR2-activated central nervous system (CNS) neuroblastoma (CNS NB-FOXR2) is a recently identified subtype of brain tumor characterized by the elevated expression of the transcription factor FOXR2 mainly due to genomic rearrangements. However, the precise pathogenic mechanisms, including the cell type of origin, remain elusive.

Methods

A gene expression analysis of patient tumors was performed to identify putative cell types of origin. Based on this prediction, a new human embryonic stem cell–based model was developed to validate the origin and to examine the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying the formation of CNS NB-FOXR2.

Results

Our data showed that CNS NB-FOXR2 tumors express a high level of lineage marker genes associated with the medial ganglionic eminence (MGE), a transient structure located in the developing ventral forebrain. Our model confirmed the cell-type-specific effect of FOXR2 on the proliferation and in vivo tumorigenicity. Additionally, we found that FOXR2 overexpression activated the MEK/ERK signaling pathway through a suppression of the endogenous RAS inhibitor DIRAS3. The MEK inhibitor trametinib suppressed the proliferation of FOXR2-expressing MGE progenitors more than nonexpressing cells.

Conclusions

Our study collectively demonstrates that MGE progenitors are the cell of origin of CNS NB-FOXR2 and that FOXR2 activates the MEK/ERK signaling pathway, providing a potential therapeutic target.
EARLY FLOWERING3-1 represses Grain number, plant height, and heading date7 to promote ABC1 REPRESSOR1 and regulate nitrogen uptake in rice
Authors: Sun Qi , Yu Zhiwen , Wang Xiaoche , Chen Hao , Lu Jiahao , Zhao Chenfei , Jiang Linlin , Li Fengcheng , Xu Quan , Ma Dianrong
Published: August 2024

The extensive use of nitrogen fertilizer boosts rice (Oryza sativa) production but also harms ecosystems. Therefore, enhancing crop nitrogen use efficiency is crucial. Here, we performed map-based cloning and identified the EARLY FLOWERING3 (ELF3) like protein-encoding gene OsELF3-1, which confers enhanced nitrogen uptake in rice. OsELF3-1 forms a ternary complex (OsEC) with OsELF4s and OsLUX, the putative orthologs of ELF4 and LUX ARRHYTHMO (LUX) in Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana), respectively. OsEC directly binds to the promoter of Grain number, plant height, and heading date7 (Ghd7) and represses its expression. Ghd7 encodes a transcription factor that has major effects on multiple agronomic traits. Ghd7 is also a transcriptional repressor and directly suppresses the expression of ABC1 REPRESSOR1 (ARE1), a negative regulator of nitrogen use efficiency. Therefore, targeting the OsEC-Ghd7-ARE1 module offers an approach to enhance nitrogen uptake, presenting promising avenues for sustainable agriculture.
Interview Versus Performance Assessment of Cognition as Predictors of Real-World Outcomes in a Large-Scale Cross-Sectional Study in Schizophrenia
Authors: Pezzella Pasquale , Caporusso Edoardo , Mucci Armida , Bucci Paola , Giordano Giulia M , Amore Mario , Rocca Paola , Rossi Alessandro , Bertolino Alessandro , Ventura Joseph , Galderisi Silvana , Maj Mario ,   Italian Network for Research on Psychoses, Giuliani Luigi , Perrottelli Andrea , Piegari Giuseppe , Merlotti Eleonora , Pietrafesa Daria , Brando Francesco , Sansone Noemi , Melillo Antonio , Papalino Marco , Calia Vitalba , Romano Raffaella , Calcagno Pietro , Belvedere Murri Martino , Cattedra Simone , Montemagni Cristiana , Riccardi Cecilia , Del Favero Elisa , Pacitti Francesca , Rossi Rodolfo , Socci Valentina
Published: August 2024

The Cognitive Assessment Interview (CAI) is an interview-based scale measuring cognitive impairment and its impact on functioning in subjects with schizophrenia (SCZ). It is approved as a coprimary measure of performance-based instruments, such as the Measurement and Treatment Research to Improve Cognition in Schizophrenia Consensus Cognitive Battery (MCCB). Recent research highlights negative symptoms, social cognition, and functional capacity as mediators of cognitive impairment’s impact on functioning. This study compared mediation analysis outcomes using CAI or MCCB scores, providing insights into the utility of interview-based tools in research and clinical practice. The study included 618 individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia, recruited from 24 Italian psychiatric clinics. Neurocognitive assessments utilized both CAI and MCCB. Mediation analyses explored negative symptoms, social cognition, and functional capacity as mediators of the impact of neurocognition on real-life functioning domains. The study’s results extend the validation of the CAI as a coprimary measure that provides valid information on the impact of cognitive impairment on real-life functioning and its possible mediators, complementing the information obtained using the MCCB. Interview-based cognitive assessment might be essential for understanding schizophrenia complexity and its impact on various cognitive and functional domains for clinicians, patients, and caregivers.
Comparison of autonomic reactivity to trauma and nightmare imagery: A Pilot Study
Authors: McGrory Christopher M , Kram Mendelsohn Augustus , Pineles Suzanne L , Lasko Natasha B , Ivkovic Vladimir , Moon Mabelle , Cetinkaya Doga , Bazer Oren , Fortier Elizabeth , Kelly Anne , Bragdon Laura B , Arditte Hall Kimberly A , Tanev Kaloyan , Orr Scott P , Pace-Schott Edward F
Published: August 2024

Study Objectives

Trauma-related nightmares (TRNs) are a hallmark symptom of PTSD and are highly correlated with PTSD severity and poor sleep quality. Given the salience and arousal associated with TRNs, they might be an effective target for imaginal exposures during Prolonged Exposure (PE) therapy. As a first step in this line of research, the current study compared participants’ emotional reactivity during recollection of TRNs to their recollection of the index traumatic event.

Methods

Seventeen trauma-exposed participants with clinical or sub-clinical PTSD who reported frequent TRNs engaged in script-driven imagery using scripts depicting their index trauma and their most trauma-like TRN. Heart rate (HRR), skin conductance (SCR), corrugator EMG (EMGR) responses, and emotional ratings were recorded.

Results

HRR, SCR, and EMGR did not differ significantly between trauma-related and TRN scripts. Bayesian analyses confirmed support for the null hypothesis, indicating no differences. With the exception of “Sadness,” for which TRNs elicited significantly lower ratings than trauma scripts, individual emotion ratings showed no significant differences, suggesting likely parity between the emotionality of trauma-related and TRN recollections.

Conclusions

Together, TRN content elicited psychophysiological reactivity similar to that of the index trauma in this pilot study. Upon replication, studies testing TRNs as potential targets for imaginal exposures during PE may be warranted.