bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Revolving door benefits? The consequences of the revolving door for political access
Authors: Egerod Benjamin C. K. , Rasmussen Anne , van der Ploeg Jens
Published: June 2024

Do policymakers grant greater access to organized interests employing their former colleagues? While a growing literature examines the “revolving door” between business and politics, we know little about whether organized interests can extract political favors by hiring revolvers. Combining novel data on the career trajectories of European Union officials and politicians with access data to the European Commission, we use a difference-in-differences strategy to estimate how hiring revolvers shapes access to meetings with policymakers. Surprisingly, we find limited evidence that employing politically connected staff shapes access overall. However, we uncover substantial heterogeneities in the effects, suggesting that revolvers do increase access to meetings about the broader legislative agenda when institutional friction is low. Moreover, contract lobbying firms, which arguably possess the weakest level of legitimacy, experience increased access. Our article sheds new light on the circumstances under which revolvers with political connections help private interests and have important implications for understanding the political effects of the revolving door.
Abstracting art: Interpreting art though fractal analysis
Authors: Shapiro Maura
Published: June 2024

Quantifying artistic properties with scaling analysis demands grid independence and careful analysis.
Research on loss characteristic of soft magnetic composites under nonsinusoidal excitations with DC bias field
Authors: Mei Chao , Wan Kun , Zhang Bowei , Zhu Xu , Hu Feng , Liu Wei , Zou Zhongqiu , Su Hailin
Published: June 2024

Choosing a suitable core loss model and accurately predicting energy loss are crucial in designing magnetic devices with high efficiency based on soft magnetic composites (SMCs). In this work, FeSiAl and FeSi SMCs with a uniform insulating layer were fabricated by a phosphating process. The effects of excitation waveform and DC bias field on core loss have been investigated in depth. The results show that different remagnetization rates of SMC under ideal sinusoidal and square waves result in different core losses at the same frequency and flux density. The improved general Steinmetz equation and the modified Steinmetz equation were shown to be suitable for calculating core loss under square excitation waves without DC bias field. When the DC bias field is applied, the core loss of FeSiAl and FeSi SMCs was found to increase significantly due to the magnetization state gradually approaching saturation. Interestingly, the variation tendency of core loss can be accurately predicted using the waveform coefficient Steinmetz equation under square excitation conditions with a DC bias environment. This work not only provides deep insights into core loss under different excitation waveforms and DC bias fields but also determines the application scope of different core loss models.
Optimization of waveguide fabrication processes in lithium-niobate-on-insulator platform
Authors: Kumar CH. S. S. Pavan , Klimov Nikolai N. , Kuo Paulina S.
Published: June 2024

Lithium niobate (LN) is used in diverse applications, such as spectroscopy, remote sensing, and quantum communications. The emergence of lithium-niobate-on-insulator (LNOI) technology and its commercial accessibility represent significant milestones. This technology aids in harnessing the full potential of LN’s properties, such as achieving tight mode confinement and strong overlap with applied electric fields, which has enabled LNOI-based electro-optic modulators to have ultra-broad bandwidths with low-voltage operation and low power consumption. As a consequence, LNOI devices are emerging as competitive contenders in the integrated photonics landscape. However, the nanofabrication, particularly LN etching, presents a notable challenge. LN is hard, dense, and chemically inert. It has anisotropic etch behavior and a propensity to produce material redeposition during the reactive-ion plasma etch process. These factors make fabricating low-loss LNOI waveguides (WGs) challenging. Recognizing the pivotal role of addressing these fabrication challenges for obtaining low-loss WGs, our research focuses on a systematic study of various process steps in fabricating LNOI WGs and other photonic structures. In particular, our study involves (i) careful selection of hard mask materials, (ii) optimization of inductively coupled plasma etch parameters, and finally, (iii) determining the optimal post-etch cleaning approach to remove redeposited material on the sidewalls of the etched photonic structures. Using the recipe established, we realized optical WGs with a total (propagation and coupling) loss value of −10.5 dB, comparable to established values found in the literature. Our findings broaden our understanding of optimizing fabrication processes for low-loss lithium-niobate WGs and can serve as an accessible resource for advancing the LNOI technology.
A unified framework for perceived magnitude and discriminability of sensory stimuli
Authors: Zhou Jingyang , Duong Lyndon R. , Simoncelli Eero P.
Published: June 2024

The perception of sensory attributes is often quantified through measurements of sensitivity (the ability to detect small stimulus changes), as well as through direct judgments of appearance or intensity. Despite their ubiquity, the relationship between these two measurements remains controversial and unresolved. Here, we propose a framework in which they arise from different aspects of a common representation. Specifically, we assume that judgments of stimulus intensity (e.g., as measured through rating scales) reflect the mean value of an internal representation, and sensitivity reflects a combination of mean value and noise properties, as quantified by the statistical measure of Fisher information. Unique identification of these internal representation properties can be achieved by combining measurements of sensitivity and judgments of intensity. As a central example, we show that Weber’s law of perceptual sensitivity can coexist with Stevens’ power-law scaling of intensity ratings (for all exponents), when the noise amplitude increases in proportion to the representational mean. We then extend this result beyond the Weber’s law range by incorporating a more general and physiology-inspired form of noise and show that the combination of noise properties and sensitivity measurements accurately predicts intensity ratings across a variety of sensory modalities and attributes. Our framework unifies two primary perceptual measurements—thresholds for sensitivity and rating scales for intensity—and provides a neural interpretation for the underlying representation.
Border cells without theta rhythmicity in the medial prefrontal cortex
Authors: Long Xiaoyang , Deng Bin , Shen Rui , Yang Lin , Chen Liping , Ran Qingxia , Du Xin , Zhang Sheng-Jia
Published: June 2024

The medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) is a key brain structure for higher cognitive functions such as decision-making and goal-directed behavior, many of which require awareness of spatial variables including one’s current position within the surrounding environment. Although previous studies have reported spatially tuned activities in mPFC during memory-related trajectory, the spatial tuning of mPFC network during freely foraging behavior remains elusive. Here, we reveal geometric border or border-proximal representations from the neural activity of mPFC ensembles during naturally exploring behavior, with both allocentric and egocentric boundary responses. Unlike most of classical border cells in the medial entorhinal cortex (MEC) discharging along a single wall, a large majority of border cells in mPFC fire particularly along four walls. mPFC border cells generate new firing fields to external insert, and remain stable under darkness, across distinct shapes, and in novel environments. In contrast to hippocampal theta entrainment during spatial working memory tasks, mPFC border cells rarely exhibited theta rhythmicity during spontaneous locomotion behavior. These findings reveal spatially modulated activity in mPFC, supporting local computation for cognitive functions involving spatial context and contributing to a broad spatial tuning property of cortical circuits.
Connection between protein-tyrosine kinase inhibition and coping with oxidative stress in
Bacillus subtilis
Authors: Shi Lei , Derouiche Abderahmane , Pandit Santosh , Alazmi Meshari , Ventroux Magali , Køhler Julie Bonne , Noirot-Gros Marie-Francoise , Gao Xin , Mijakovic Ivan
Published: June 2024

In bacteria, attenuation of protein-tyrosine phosphorylation occurs during oxidative stress. The main described mechanism behind this effect is the H
2
O
2
-triggered conversion of bacterial phospho-tyrosines to protein-bound 3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine. This disrupts the bacterial tyrosine phosphorylation-based signaling network, which alters the bacterial polysaccharide biosynthesis. Herein, we report an alternative mechanism, in which oxidative stress leads to a direct inhibition of bacterial protein-tyrosine kinases (BY-kinases). We show that DefA, a minor peptide deformylase, inhibits the activity of BY-kinase PtkA when
Bacillus subtilis
is exposed to oxidative stress. High levels of PtkA activity are known to destabilize
B. subtilis
pellicle formation, which leads to higher sensitivity to oxidative stress. Interaction with DefA inhibits both PtkA autophosphorylation and phosphorylation of its substrate Ugd, which is involved in exopolysaccharide formation. Inactivation of
defA
drastically reduces the capacity of
B. subtilis
to cope with oxidative stress, but it does not affect the major oxidative stress regulons PerR, OhrR, and Spx, indicating that PtkA inhibition is the main pathway for DefA involvement in this stress response. Structural analysis identified DefA residues Asn95, Tyr150, and Glu152 as essential for interaction with PtkA. Inhibition of PtkA depends also on the presence of a C-terminal α-helix of DefA, which resembles PtkA-interacting motifs from known PtkA activators, TkmA, SalA, and MinD. Loss of either the key interacting residues or the inhibitory helix of DefA abolishes inhibition of PtkA in vitro and impairs postoxidative stress recovery in vivo, confirming the involvement of these structural features in the proposed mechanism.
In situ fabrication of atomically adjacent dual-vacancy sites for nearly 100% selective CH
4
production
Authors: He Ye , Dai Sheng , Sheng Jianping , Ren Qin , Lv Yao , Sun Yanjuan , Dong Fan
Published: June 2024

The photocatalytic CO
2
-to-CH
4
conversion involves multiple consecutive proton–electron coupling transfer processes. Achieving high CH
4
selectivity with satisfactory conversion efficiency remains challenging since the inefficient proton and electron delivery path results in sluggish proton–electron transfer kinetics. Herein, we propose the fabrication of atomically adjacent anion–cation vacancy as paired redox active sites that could maximally promote the proton- and electron-donating efficiency to simultaneously enhance the oxidation and reduction half-reactions, achieving higher photocatalytic CO
2
reduction activity and CH
4
selectivity. Taking TiO
2
as a photocatalyst prototype, the operando electron paramagnetic resonance spectra, quasi in situ X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy measurements, and high-angle annular dark-field-scanning transmission electron microscopy image analysis prove that the V
Ti
on TiO
2
as initial sites can induce electron redistribution and facilitate the escape of the adjacent oxygen atom, thereby triggering the dynamic creation of atomically adjacent dual-vacancy sites during photocatalytic reactions. The dual-vacancy sites not only promote the proton- and electron-donating efficiency for CO
2
activation and protonation but also modulate the coordination modes of surface-bound intermediate species, thus converting the endoergic protonation step to an exoergic reaction process and steering the CO
2
reduction pathway toward CH
4
production. As a result, these in situ created dual active sites enable nearly 100% CH
4
selectivity and evolution rate of 19.4 μmol g
−1
h
−1
, about 80 times higher than that of pristine TiO
2
. Thus, these insights into vacancy dynamics and structure–function relationship are valuable to atomic understanding and catalyst design for achieving highly selective catalysis.
Hidden multiple comparisons increase forensic error rates
Authors: Vanderplas Susan , Carriquiry Alicia , Hofmann Heike
Published: June 2024

When wires are cut, the tool produces striations on the cut surface; as in other forms of forensic analysis, these striation marks are used to connect the evidence to the source that created them. Here, we argue that the practice of comparing two wire cut surfaces introduces complexities not present in better-investigated forensic examination of toolmarks such as those observed on bullets, as wire comparisons inherently require multiple distinct comparisons, increasing the expected false discovery rate. We call attention to the multiple comparison problem in wire examination and relate it to other situations in forensics that involve multiple comparisons, such as database searches.
Camel milk composition and future market potential
Authors: Faye Bernard , Konuspayeva Gaukhar
Published: June 2024

Many “reviews of reviews” were published almost every month to vent the health claims of camel milk, attributing to it, many “therapeutic virtues” without critical look. However, camel milk cannot be considered as a medicine because it is first and foremost a food even if some health effects and undeniable dietetic properties can be attributed to some of its components. However, these health claims are undeniable commercial arguments contributing to the current development of the sector on a global scale (around 5.5% annual growth), despite the many constraints linked to the desert environment in which most of the camel farms are living. This publication therefore briefly reviews the main components of milk with a potential health effect and/or dietary interest and which constitute a springboard for a rapid development of the camel milk economy worldwide.
Res-BiLSTMs model based on multi-task attention for real-time measurement of the free calcium oxide content
Authors: Zhao Yantao , Wang Yao , Zhang Shanshan , Wang Xin , Yu Hongnian
Published: June 2024

The content of free calcium oxide (f-CaO) is the primary economic index to evaluate the quality of cement. A residual bidirectional long short-term memory network model (Res-BiLSTMs) based on a multi-task attention mechanism was proposed for the characteristics of cement clinker production, used for online monitoring f-CaO content. The model utilizes the Bi-LSTM as the foundational component and combines the residual network to construct the Res-BiLSTMs coding structure, which aims to summarize the multi-level characteristic information of the input sequence. Additionally, a multi-task attention mechanism is introduced, combining the attention mechanism with semi-supervision to extract control coupling and data coupling among devices and variables. The results demonstrate that the addition of the multi-task attention mechanism led to a reduction in model errors by 0.0175 and 0.022, respectively, and an improvement in the degree of fit by 14.61%. The effectiveness of the multi-task attention mechanism for quality monitoring is confirmed. Compared to traditional LSTM, this model exhibited a reduction in errors by 0.0469 and 0.019, respectively, an increase in the correlation coefficient by 45.37%, and outperformed all other models in the comparison. The model’s measurement performance under limited labeled samples is also validated.
Glutathione and acid dual-responsive bismuth-based nanosensitizer for chemo-mediated cancer sonodynamic therapy
Authors: Chen Guobo , Ping Jing , Du Jun , Zhao Linghao , Li Yuhao , Liu Hui
Published: June 2024

Chemotherapeutic agents hold significant clinical potential in combating tumors. However, delivering these drugs to the tumor site for controlled release remains a crucial challenge. In this study, we synthesize and construct a glutathione (GSH) and acid dual-responsive bismuth-based nano-delivery platform (BOD), aiming for sonodynamic enhancement of docetaxel (DTX)-mediated tumor therapy. The bismuth nanomaterial can generate multiple reactive oxygen species under ultrasound stimulation. Furthermore, the loading of DTX to form BOD effectively reduces the toxicity of DTX in the bloodstream, ensuring its cytotoxic effect is predominantly exerted at the tumor site. DTX can be well released in high expression of GSH and acidic tumor microenvironment. Meanwhile, ultrasound can also promote the release of DTX. Results from both in vitro and in vivo experiments substantiate that the synergistic therapy involving chemotherapy and sonodynamic therapy significantly inhibits the growth and proliferation of tumor cells. This study provides a favorable paradigm for developing a synergistic tumor treatment platform for tumor microenvironment response and ultrasound-promoted drug release.
Greenhouse gas emissions from hydropower reservoirs: emission processes and management approaches
Authors: Wang Zilin , Chan Faith Ka Shun , Feng Meili , Johnson Matthew F
Published: June 2024

Hydropower reservoirs, as vital inland waters bodies of anthropogenic origin, exhibit distinct characteristics from natural waters, thereby garnering research interest in the quantification and mapping of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. In this review, we systematically examine studies focusing on GHG emissions from hydropower reservoirs. We identify two key primary physical mechanisms resulting from river damming, namely water impoundment and water regulation, which can significantly influence GHG emissions in hydropower reservoirs. Reservoirs vary in size, with smaller reservoirs exhibiting higher CH4 emissions per unit area. For instance, small reservoirs have an average flux rate of 327.54 mg C–CH4/m2/day, while medium-sized reservoirs emit 267.12 mg C–CH4/m2/day, and large ones emit 37.34 mg C–CH4/m2/day. This difference is potentially attributable to shorter water residence times in small reservoirs and increased susceptibility to littoral disturbance. In addition to reservoir scale, variations in GHG emissions between reservoirs are also influenced by the type of hydropower. Run-of-river and closed-loop pumped storage hydropower (PSH) systems are anticipated to exhibit lower GHG emissions (PSH: 4.2–46.5 mg C–CH4/m2/day) in comparison to conventional impoundment hydropower, owing to their operational characteristics, facilitating mixing and oxygenation within the reservoir water column and reducing sedimentation. Nonetheless, further field measurements are warranted. Through the integration of literature insights, we propose solutions aimed at managing emissions, considering both physical mechanisms and hydropower planning. Ultimately, these findings will advance our understanding of GHG emissions from hydropower reservoirs and facilitate sustainable carbon reduction management practices.
Voluntary uptake of flood insurance in post-fire landscapes: insights from household surveys after two wildfires in northern Arizona
Authors: Edgeley Catrin M , Colavito Melanie M , vonHedemann Nicolena , Burnett Jack T
Published: June 2024

Wildfires can rapidly generate post-fire flood risk for downslope communities, complicating recovery and necessitating accelerated cross-boundary responses on both public and private lands. Flood insurance is one of a suite of efforts to minimize the social and financial impacts associated with post-fire flood events, but little is known about who purchases coverage after wildfires or their experiences with insurance claims. We provide an opportunistic contribution to this research gap by comparing data gathered via three mixed-mode household surveys conducted in areas with modeled flood risk after two wildfires in the greater Flagstaff, Arizona area. Two surveys were administered—one in 2011 and one in 2020—after the 2010 Schultz Fire, which resulted in significant flooding, providing a longitudinal insight into insurance experiences. A third survey was administered in 2022 following flooding adjacent to the 2019 Museum Fire. Together, these surveys resulted in a total of 1,351 usable responses. We find that several groups are significantly less likely to purchase flood insurance, including residents who moved to their property after the studied fire event and renters. The reported cost of flood insurance among households affected by the Schultz Fire doubled over a 10-year period; those who no longer maintained coverage typically reported that they stopped renewing between 2–5 years after the fire. Second homeowners were more likely to report damages that were not covered by insurance. We provide recommendations for engaging residents in uptake, renewal, and use of flood insurance and conclude that there is an urgent need to better understand decision-making surrounding post-fire flood insurance to support more equitable recovery.
First measurements of the airglow emissions from Kolhapur using an in-house developed Fabry–Perot interferometer
Authors: Mahavarkar Prasanna , Sriram S , Joshi Bhagyashree , Gurubaran S
Published: June 2024

First-time airglow observations of the nighttime thermospheric wind from an in-house developed ground-based Fabry–Perot Interferometer are recorded from the Kolhapur location of India. This was the first attempt to build such an instrument, and thus the quality of the data recorded in the field is satisfactory. The instrument has been thoroughly calibrated in the laboratory, and the accuracy of the important parameter finesse of the etalon is found to be ≈94% in agreement with the value supplied by the manufacturer. The airglow observations from the field indicate that the vertical wind observed looking toward Zenith over the course of the night is zero, ensuring a 100% accuracy. However, the temperature measurements were found to be approximately 30% in agreement with the measurements repoted in literature. To improve this measurement, improvements in the optical design need to be made. The paper concludes with conclusions and a brief idea of the proposed improvisations in the design.
The EU Web of Competences and Food Law
Authors: Schebesta Hanna , Purnhagen Kai
Published: June 2024

The EU can legislate in the food domain only within the confines of competences conferred to it by the Member States in EU Treaties. This chapter provides an overview of the various competence areas that are relevant in EU Food Law (section 2.2). These are, namely, agriculture (section 2.2.1), the internal market (section 2.2.2), consumer law (section 2.2.3), the environment (section 2.2.4), health (section 2.2.5), and solidarity (section 2.2.6). The implications of fundamental rights are also discussed (section 2.3). The chapter shows that EU food law is based on a ‘web of competences’ rather than a specific isolated competence norm.
Pre-Market Authorizations of Novel Products
Authors: Schebesta Hanna , Purnhagen Kai
Published: June 2024

This chapter discusses the pre-market authorization of novel food according to the Novel Food Regulation (NFR) (section 7.2). It outlines its legal basis, objectives (section 7.3), and scope (section 7.4), after which a closer look is taken at more specific regulatory aspects, such as the consultation process to determine the novel food status (section 7.5), the Union list of novel food (section 7.6), and the general authorization process to be listed on it (section 7.6.2). The alternative process of notifying or applying for authorization of a traditional food from a third country is also explained (section 7.6.3). In addition, the chapter outlines the inherent risk assessment process by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) (section 7.7) and the effects of authorization with regard to data ownership (section 7.8). The final section reflects on the advantages and disadvantages of the NFR (section 7.9).
Philosophy, the Good Life, and Spirituality
Authors: Cottingham John
Published: June 2024

This chapter, drawing on the work of the philosopher Pierre Hadot, distinguishes between philosophy as a specialized academic discipline, concerned with careful examination of our concepts, and philosophy as a way of life, concerned with an examination of the overall meaning and purpose of our lives and with the ‘care of the soul’. The latter conception is connected with the kinds of human need that tend to be labelled ‘spiritual’, and the chapter proceeds to examine various purely secular treatments of spiritual praxis and spiritual experience, contrasting these with the kinds of account found in religious writers. It is concluded that when we unpack exactly what is involved in the activities and experiences we call spiritual, it is not easy to make adequate sense of spirituality, and of its importance for human life, without something close to a theistic framework.
Which Naturalism?
Authors: Cottingham John
Published: June 2024

This chapter examines the ‘naturalizing’ agenda of contemporary secularist philosophy. The history of the terms ‘nature’ and ‘natural’ reveals a discontinuity between present-day and earlier understandings of these terms. Given the radical shift in how the natural domain is understood, today’s ‘naturalist’ philosophers, insisting that all phenomena fall within the domain of the natural, are advancing a thesis that many classical, medieval, and early-modern philosophers and theologians would have regarded as self-evident. The philosophically interesting question is not whether we should be naturalists, but which of two naturalisms we should adopt: secular naturalism, with its neutral or blank conception of nature in general and human nature in particular, or theistic naturalism, according to which both the natural world and our own nature bear the stamp of the divine. The chapter concludes by suggesting that the former (secularist) view faces serious difficulties, on both the epistemic and the moral fronts.
Exploring the link between occupationally relevant whole body vibration and headache and neck pain: is elevated muscle tension an intermediary factor?
Authors: Yung Marcus , Milosavljevic Stephan , Lang Angelica E , Tennant Liana M , Trask Catherine
Published: June 2024

Whole body vibration (WBV) is linked to short- and longer-term adverse health outcomes, including cognitive impairment, stress and memory loss, loss of balance, reduced proprioception, visual and vestibular disturbances, gastrointestinal problems, and musculoskeletal disorders. Epidemiological evidence supports the link between WBV and headache and head discomfort, but few experimental studies have examined this relationship, particularly with increased muscle tension, as an intermediary. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between muscle tension and vibration intensity, between perceived neck pain and headache/head discomfort and vibration intensity, and between muscle tension and reported neck pain and headache symptoms from simulated WBV based on field measurements of all-terrain vehicle operation on farm terrain. We observed significantly higher electromyography amplitude in the High condition (equivalent to EU Directive’s Exposure Limit Value) compared to both Low (equivalent to EU Directive’s Exposure Action Value) and Control (quiet sitting) conditions at the left upper trapezius muscle but there were no significant time effects. Neck pain and headache/head discomfort significantly increased after both Low (91% increase from baseline) and High (154% increase from baseline) vibration conditions but there were no significant differences between conditions. Based on simple regression modeling, the relationship between muscle activity and neck pain or headache was very weak (R2 = 0–0.093). Given the possibility of multiple factors contributing to headache symptoms, future research should not only consider the role of muscle tension but also sensory conflict, excessive noise, biodynamic responses, and a combination of these factors.
Neuregulin-1, a member of the epidermal growth factor family, mitigates STING-mediated pyroptosis and necroptosis in ischaemic flaps
Authors: Zhu Xuwei , Yu Gaoxiang , Lv Ya , Yang Ningning , Zhao Yinuo , Li Feida , Zhao Jiayi , Chen Zhuliu , Lai Yingying , Chen Liang , Wang Xiangyang , Xiao Jian , Cai Yuepiao , Feng Yongzeng , Ding Jian , Gao Weiyang , Zhou Kailiang , Xu Hui
Published: June 2024

Background

Ensuring the survival of the distal end of a random flap during hypoperfusion (ischaemia) is difficult in clinical practice. Effective prevention of programmed cell death is a potential strategy for inhibiting ischaemic flap necrosis. The activation of stimulator of interferon genes (STING) pathway promotes inflammation and leads to cell death. The epidermal growth factor family member neuregulin-1 (NRG1) reduces cell death by activating the protein kinase B (AKT) signalling pathway. Moreover, AKT signalling negatively regulates STING activity. We aimed to verify the efficacy of NRG1 injection in protecting against flap necrosis. Additionally, we investigated whether NRG1 effectively enhances ischemic flap survival by inhibiting pyroptosis and necroptosis through STING suppression.

Methods

A random-pattern skin flap model was generated on the backs of C57BL/6 mice. The skin flap survival area was determined. The blood supply and vascular network of the flap was assessed by laser Doppler blood flow analysis. Cluster of differentiation 34 immunohistochemistry (IHC) and haematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining of the flap sections revealed microvessels. Transcriptome sequencing analysis revealed the mechanism by which NRG1 promotes the survival of ischaemic flaps. The levels of angiogenesis, oxidative stress, necroptosis, pyroptosis and indicators associated with signalling pathways in flaps were examined by IHC, immunofluorescence and Western blotting. Packaging adeno-associated virus (AAV) was used to activate STING in flaps.

Results

NRG1 promoted the survival of ischaemic flaps. An increased subcutaneous vascular network and neovascularization were found in ischaemic flaps after the application of NRG1. Transcriptomic gene ontology enrichment analysis and protein level detection indicated that necroptosis, pyroptosis and STING activity were reduced in the NRG1 group. The phosphorylation of AKT and forkhead box O3a (FOXO3a) were increased after NRG1 treatment. The increased expression of STING in flaps induced by AAV reversed the therapeutic effect of NRG1. The ability of NRG1 to phosphorylate AKT-FOXO3a, inhibit STING and promote flap survival was abolished after the application of the AKT inhibitor MK2206.

Conclusions

NRG1 inhibits pyroptosis and necroptosis by activating the AKT-FOXO3a signalling pathway to suppress STING activation and promote ischaemic flap survival.
Consequences of partially recessive deleterious genetic variation for the evolution of inversions suppressing recombination between sex chromosomes
Authors: Olito Colin , Ponnikas Suvi , Hansson Bengt , Abbott Jessica K
Published: June 2024

The evolution of suppressed recombination between sex chromosomes is widely hypothesized to be driven by sexually antagonistic selection (SA), where tighter linkage between the sex-determining gene(s) and nearby SA loci is favored when it couples male-beneficial alleles to the proto-Y chromosome, and female-beneficial alleles to the proto-X. Although difficult to test empirically, the SA selection hypothesis overshadows several alternatives, including an incomplete but often-repeated “sheltering” hypothesis which suggests that expansion of the sex-linked region (SLR) reduces the homozygous expression of deleterious mutations at selected loci. Here, we use population genetic models to evaluate the consequences of partially recessive deleterious mutational variation for the evolution of otherwise neutral chromosomal inversions expanding the SLR on proto-Y chromosomes. Both autosomal and SLR-expanding inversions face a race against time: lightly-loaded inversions are initially beneficial, but eventually become deleterious as they accumulate new mutations, after which their chances of fixing become negligible. In contrast, initially unloaded inversions eventually become neutral as their deleterious load reaches the same equilibrium as non-inverted haplotypes. Despite the differences in inheritance and indirect selection, SLR-expanding inversions exhibit similar evolutionary dynamics to autosomal inversions over many biologically plausible parameter conditions. Differences emerge when the population average mutation load is quite high; in this case large autosomal inversions that are lucky enough to be mutation-free can rise to intermediate to high frequencies where selection in homozygotes becomes important (Y-linked inversions never appear as homozygous karyotypes); conditions requiring either high mutation rates, highly recessive deleterious mutations, weak selection, or a combination thereof.
The Physiologic Complexity of Prefrontal Oxygenation Dynamics Is Associated With Age and Executive Function: An Exploratory Study
Authors: Hong Yinglu , Zhou Junhong , Yu Wanting , Iloputaife Ikechukwu , Bao Dapeng , Zhou Yuncong , Manor Brad , Lipsitz Lewis A , Jor’dan Azizah J
Published: June 2024

Background

The hemodynamics of prefrontal cortex (PFC) oxygenation are regulated by numerous processes operating over multiple temporal scales, producing complex patterns in its output fluctuations. Age may alter this multiscale regulation of PFC oxygenation, leading to diminished physiologic complexity of this important regulatory process. We aimed to characterize the effects of age on such complexity and its relationship to performance of an executive n-back task.

Methods

Twenty-four younger (aged 28 ± 3 years) and 27 older (aged 78 ± 6 years) adults completed this study. Continuous oxygenation (HbO2) and deoxygenation (HHb) signals of PFC were recorded using functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) while participants stood and watched a blank screen (blank), clicked a mouse when an X appeared (IdX), or when a letter was repeated from “2-back” in a sequence shown on a screen (2-back). We used multiscale entropy to quantify the HbO2 and HHb complexity of fNIRS signals.

Results

Older adults exhibited lower HbO2 and HHb complexity compared to younger adults, regardless of task (p = .0005–.002). Both groups exhibited greater complexity during the IdX and 2-back than blank task (p = .02–.04). Across all participants, those with greater HbO2 and/or HHb complexity during the blank task exhibited faster IdX and 2-back reaction time (β = −0.56 to −0.6, p = .009–.02). Those demonstrating greater increase in HbO2 and/or HHb complexity from IdX to 2-back task had lower percent increase in reaction time from IdX to 2-back task (β = −0.41 to −0.37, p = .005–.01).

Conclusions

The complexity of fNIRS-measured PFC oxygenation fluctuations may capture the influence of aging on the regulation of prefrontal hemodynamics involved in executive-function-based task performance.
Positive functional filters synthesis for positive linear systems
Authors: Ezzine Montassar , Darouach Mohamed , Souley Ali Harouna , Messaoud Hassani
Published: June 2024

This paper deals with the problem of positive functional $H_{\infty }$ filtering for positive linear systems subject to both bounded disturbances and unknown inputs. The order of the designed $H_{\infty }$ filter is equal to the dimension of the functional to be estimated, that can be useful for control purpose for example. We focus on the design of positive filters which guarantee that the functional (of the state) is always non-negative at any time and converges to the real functional state by minimizing the effect of the disturbances on the estimation error. In fact, we propose a new positive reduced order $H_{\infty }$ filter for positive linear systems for which the states remain in the non-negative orthant of the state space, subject to both disturbances and unknown inputs. This paper is a first attempt to design positive unknown inputs functional $H_{\infty }$ filter for such positive linear systems. The proposed approach is based on the positivity of an augmented system composed of dynamics of both considered system and proposed filter, on the unbiasedness of the estimation error by the resolution of Sylvester equation; then we derive conditions for the establishment of such filters in terms of an optimization problem. An algorithm that summarizes the different steps of the proposed positive functional $H_{\infty }$ filter design is given. Finally, numerical example and simulation results are given to showcase the effectiveness of the proposed design method.
The Contact Mapping Class Group and Rational Unknots in Lens Spaces
Authors: Min Hyunki
Published: June 2024

We determine the contact mapping class group of the standard contact structures on lens spaces. To prove the main result, we use the one-parametric convex surface theory to classify Legendrian and transverse rational unknots in any tight contact structure on lens spaces up to Legendrian and transverse isotopy.
Competitive inhibition and mutualistic growth in co-infections: deciphering Staphylococcus aureus–Acinetobacter baumannii interaction dynamics
Authors: Timme Sandra , Wendler Sindy , Klassert Tilman E , Saraiva Joao Pedro , da Rocha Ulisses Nunes , Wittchen Manuel , Schramm Sareda , Ehricht Ralf , Monecke Stefan , Edel Birgit , Rödel Jürgen , Löffler Bettina , Ramirez Maria Soledad , Slevogt Hortense , Figge Marc Thilo , Tuchscherr Lorena
Published: June 2024

Staphylococcus aureus (Sa) and Acinetobacter baumannii (Ab) are frequently co-isolated from polymicrobial infections that are severe and refractory to therapy. Here, we apply a combination of wet-lab experiments and in silico modeling to unveil the intricate nature of the Ab/Sa interaction using both, representative laboratory strains and strains co-isolated from clinical samples. This comprehensive methodology allowed uncovering Sa's capability to exert a partial interference on Ab by the expression of phenol-soluble modulins. In addition, we observed a cross-feeding mechanism by which Sa supports the growth of Ab by providing acetoin as an alternative carbon source. This study is the first to dissect the Ab/Sa interaction dynamics wherein competitive and cooperative strategies can intertwine. Through our findings, we illuminate the ecological mechanisms supporting their coexistence in the context of polymicrobial infections. Our research not only enriches our understanding but also opens doors to potential therapeutic avenues in managing these challenging infections.
Osteoporosis treatment prevents hip fracture similarly in both sexes: the FOCUS observational study
Authors: Keaveny Tony M , Adams Annette L , Orwoll Eric S , Khosla Sundeep , Siris Ethel S , McClung Michael R , Bouxsein Mary L , Fatemi Shireen , Lee David C , Kopperdahl David L
Published: June 2024

Randomized trials have not been performed, and may never be, to determine if osteoporosis treatment prevents hip fracture in men. Addressing that evidence gap, we analyzed data from an observational study of new hip fractures in a large integrated healthcare system to compare the reduction in hip fractures associated with standard-of-care osteoporosis treatment in men versus women. Sampling from 271,389 patients aged ≥ 65 who had a hip-containing CT scan during care between 2005 and 2018, we selected all who subsequently had a first hip fracture (cases) after the CT scan (start of observation) and a sex-matched equal number of randomly selected patients. From those, we analyzed all who tested positive for osteoporosis (DXA-equivalent hip BMD T-score ≤ −2.5, measured from the CT scan using VirtuOst). We defined “treated” as at least six months of any osteoporosis medication by prescription fill data during follow-up; “not-treated” was no prescription fill. Sex-specific odds ratios of hip fracture for treated vs not-treated patients were calculated by logistic regression; adjustments included age, BMD T-score, BMD-treatment interaction, BMD, race/ethnicity, and seven baseline clinical risk factors. At two-year follow-up, 33.9% of the women (750/2,211 patients) and 24.0% of the men (175/728 patients) were treated primarily with alendronate; 51.3% and 66.3%, respectively, were not-treated; and 721 and 269, respectively, had a first hip fracture since the CT scan. Odds ratio of hip fracture for treated vs not-treated was 0.26 (95% confidence interval: 0.21–0.33) for women and 0.21 (0.13–0.34) for men; the ratio of these odds ratios (men:women) was 0.81 (0.47–1.37), indicating no significant sex effect. Various sensitivity and stratified analyses confirmed these trends, including results at five-year follow-up. Given these results and considering the relevant literature, we conclude that osteoporosis treatment prevents hip fracture similarly in both sexes.
Bone mineral density is not associated with incident high-intensity back pain: a 10-year cohort study in men
Authors: Estee Mahnuma M , Wang YuanYuan , Heritier Stephane , Urquhart Donna M , Cicuttini Flavia M , Kotowicz Mark A , Anderson Kara B , Brennan-Olsen Sharon L , Pasco Julie A , Wluka Anita E
Published: June 2024

Although patients believe that osteoporosis is a painful condition, health professionals assume it is painless unless a fracture occurs. The association between BMD and back pain has not been examined longitudinally in community-based adults in an unbiased population using gold-standard measures. This study aimed to examine the association between BMD and incident high-intensity back pain and/or high disability over 10 years in Australian men without high-intensity symptoms at baseline. Men with no high-intensity back pain and/or high disability attending the Geelong Osteoporosis Study at the 5-year visit (occurring between 2006–2010) (considered the baseline for the current study) were followed for 10 years (reassessed between 2016–2021). Back pain and disability were assessed using the Graded Chronic Pain Scale at both time points. At baseline, DXA was used to measure lumbar spine and total hip BMD and spinal artefacts. The relationships between BMD and incident high-intensity pain and/or high disability at follow-up were examined using binary logistic regression, adjusted for age, body mass index, depression, education, smoking, mobility, and spinal artefacts. A total of 679 participants had no to low-intensity pain and/or no to low disability at baseline. A total of 441 attended follow-up, providing back pain and disability data. Thirty-seven men developed high-intensity pain and/or high disability. No association of BMD at any site was seen with incident high-intensity pain and/or high disability. BMD was not associated with incident high-intensity pain or disability in community-based men. These data provide evidence to dispel the erroneous community-held belief that low BMD is related to back pain and disability.
Post-settlement growth and sexual dimorphism in the size and proportion of the body of the varunid crab Gaetice depressus (De Haan, 1833) (Decapoda: Brachyura: Varunidae) based on laboratory-reared material
Authors: Hamasaki Katsuyuki , Takeda Yuji , Dan Shigeki
Published: June 2024

We investigated post-settlement growth patterns and sexual dimorphism in the carapace, pelon, and cheliped dimensions of the varunid crab Gaetice depressus (De Haan, 1833). We reared crabs in the laboratory from hatching through megalopae to the first to tenth instars, and measurements were made of exuviae or specimens of crabs that successively molted. The males were larger than the females in all instars. The molt increments of carapace width (CW) and carapace length (CL) did not differ between the sexes; the former decreased with growth, especially up to ~3–4 mm, whereas the latter did not change with growth. This may be due to the rapid growth in CW compared to CL during early ontogeny. The proportion of CW to CL was larger in the females than in the males, and the rate of increase in pleon width accelerated greatly after growth to ~4 mm CW. Cheliped dimensions were larger in males than in females, probably as a consequence of sexual selection. Cheliped propodus length and width increased with growth in both sexes, but the rates of increase tended to decelerate after ~7 mm CW in females. This indicates that females may allocate more energy to pleon growth while limiting cheliped growth.
Ukraine:
Authors: Anderson Robert D , Jones Alison , Kovacic William E
Published: June 2024

This chapter focuses on the ongoing challenges of deterring corruption and supplier collusion in public procurement in Ukraine, and their relation to Ukraine’s recent history and its ongoing struggle for independence, security, democratic governance, and a decent way of life. Ukraine’s challenges provide a compelling example of the problem of ‘systemic corruption’ as outlined in Chapter 4, offering insights as to both the persistence of related tendencies and their ability to frustrate the aims of a wide array of policy interventions and corrective measures. Notwithstanding the country’s historic institutional deficits, efforts to prevent and deter corruption and supplier collusion in public procurement in Ukraine are not starting from zero. The chapter highlights previous efforts to address corruption and supplier collusion, such as the enactment of relevant legislation, general measures to strengthen the rule of law and relevant institutions, implementation of a transparent e-procurement platform (the ‘ProZorro’ system), engagement of civil society, and bolstering the enforcement of competition law and policy. Overall, the chapter highlights the complexity and interdependence of the measures needed to combat corruption and supplier collusion in a context such as Ukraine’s and the compelling case for greater international support to strengthen related frameworks.
Persistent Corruption and Supplier Collusion in Public Procurement in a (Generally) Well-Governed Country: The Case of Canada
Authors: Anderson Robert D , Jones Alison , Kovacic William E
Published: June 2024

This chapter examines the issue of persistent corruption and supplier collusion in public procurement in Canada, notwithstanding the country’s reputation as a well-governed state having in place relatively sophisticated anti-corruption and competition law systems. It notes that Canada has faced, from its beginnings, problems with corruption and/or bid rigging in public procurement markets that have harmed the government’s finances and its citizens, and caused political embarrassment on various occasions. Multiple related cases are documented and discussed. The underlying causes of such conduct are considered, including generic structural and behavioural factors observed in many countries, and cultural and institutional considerations arguably unique to Canada. The evolution of Canada’s anti-corruption and anti-collusion systems is also reviewed, and multiple related insights are highlighted.
Conclusions
Authors: Anderson Robert D , Jones Alison , Kovacic William E
Published: June 2024

This chapter highlights the core findings of the book, which emphasize the central significance of public procurement to all nations and the pervasive need to shield it from corrupt and collusive practices. It recognizes the extensive challenges involved in developing, and ensuring the enduring effectiveness of, public procurement, anti-corruption and competition laws, and that corruption and collusion risks in the seven jurisdictions examined in the book, remain real. It identifies a number of common, and jurisdiction-specific, problems which create corruption and collusion risks and summarizes the range of solutions proposed for tackling them. It stresses the importance of preventative means, to avert infringements from arising in the first place; effective enforcement of anti-corruption and competition laws to deter infringements and to ensure that a sense of impunity does not develop amongst key players; the need for better policy coordination between relevant agencies; the necessity of political commitment for successful reforms; and the roles of domestic, regional, and international efforts in driving change.