bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Global South Climate Litigation Docket
Authors: Lin Jolene , Peel Jacqueline
Published: May 2024

This chapter provides a comprehensive examination of cases in the ‘Global South docket’. In analyses 128 cases filed, pending decision, or decided in Global South countries up to May 2023. The chapter identifies key trends across the case law, including the more pronounced use of rights-based arguments in cases in the Global South, and common characteristics of the Global South docket such as the preference for implementing ‘law on the books’. The final part of the chapter discusses transnational cases—ones brought in Global North courts but involving Global South plaintiffs or projects—which can be the basis for creating truly transnational coalitions of actors seeking accountability from Global North governments and corporations for their failure to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and decarbonize their economic activities.
The King Can Do No Wrong
Authors: Fortin Marie-France
Published: May 2024

This book traces the evolution of the king can do no wrong in legal thinking to revisit our current understanding of crown liability. Arguing that the king can do no wrong is one of the most fundamental yet most misunderstood ideas of the common law tradition, the book describes ways in which these misunderstandings have serious consequences, most dramatically by making it difficult—and sometimes impossible—for individuals to successfully sue the state for the harm caused to them by governmental institutions. This book offers a novel framework for understanding the core features of legal thinking on crown liability as they developed historically. The book delves deep into traditional legal sources to develop an intellectual history of a key legal idea. The different meanings conveyed by the king can do no wrong in the common law world are explained and the contradictions between them are revealed. The mutation from the king can do no wrong to the crown can do no wrong is brought to light, and the resulting departure from core constitutional tenets is discussed. The study of the evolution of the king can do no wrong in English legal thinking, mirrored in Canada, is complemented by a historical comparative analysis of the idea in Australia, Ireland, and the United States, including its relationship with sovereign immunity. By retracing the historical constitutional foundations of the king can do no wrong, this book enhances academics’, students’, practitioners’, and judges’ understanding of the law of governmental liability in the common law world and its relationship with constitutional fundamentals.
Shuffle Along . . . the Campaign Trail
Authors: Preston Carrie J
Published: May 2024

Why did George C. Wolfe’s much-anticipated Shuffle Along, or the Making of the Musical Sensation of 1921 and All That Followed close early and at a loss in the spring of 2016 while Lin-Manuel Miranda’s Hamilton soared to beat its own records for awards and ticket sales? This chapter argues that audiences were not interested in the complex and relatively untold history of the making of African American performance traditions with their accommodations to racism (including blackface minstrelsy) and the very performance styles and innovations that influenced Hamilton’s blockbuster style. The 1921 Shuffle Along that Wolfe revived has been forgotten, in part, because it does not fit comfortably into contemporary visions of theater history and American diversity and inclusion. Shuffle Along, or the Making of . . . is being forgotten because it clarifies the limitations of current appeals to diversity when they do not attend to the historical record, previous racial justice movements, and the many ways the laudable goal of diversity ends up twisted and coopted to support white supremacy.
Effect of a Hypertensive Response During Exercise on Growth Rates of Aortic Diameters
Authors: van der Stouwe Jan Gerrit , Rossi Valentina A , Ghidoni Céline , Würzburger Laura , Wiech Patrick , Schweiger Victor , Petrasch Gloria , Moser Georg , Schmied Christian M , Vontobel Jan , Caselli Stefano , Niederseer David
Published: May 2024

BACKGROUND

Aortic diameters are related to age, sex, and body size. There is a scarcity of data on the long-term sequelae of a hypertensive response to exercise (HRE) on aortic diameters. In this retrospective cohort study, we aimed to evaluate the relationship between the growth rates of the aorta in individuals with a HRE.

METHODS

Our analysis included follow-up data of 649 patients recruited between January 2009 and December 2014 with a HRE. Participants with known connective tissue disease or a history of acute aortic syndrome were excluded. Sinus of Valsalva (SoV) and ascending aorta (AscAo) diameters were measured by transthoracic echocardiography using leading edge to leading edge convention at end-diastole.

RESULTS

At baseline, median age, maximum systolic blood pressure (BP), body mass index (BMI), diameter of the SoV, and AscAo were 62 years, 208 mm Hg, 26.9 kg/m2, 35 mm, and 35 mm respectively. 32% of patients were female and 67% had hypertension. After a median follow-up of 7.1 years, mean yearly growth rates (±SD) of the SoV and AscAo were 0.09 (0.41) mm and 0.13 (0.56) mm, respectively. No significant associations were observed between growth rates of aortic diameters and maximum systolic and diastolic BP or when considering only individuals with a baseline diameter >40 mm.

CONCLUSIONS

In this large cohort study, maximum systolic and diastolic BP during exercise showed no association with growth rates of aortic diameters. Furthermore, the mean growth rates of aortic diameters in this population were in line with growth rates in a normal population.
Scalable integration of multiomic single-cell data using generative adversarial networks
Authors: Giansanti Valentina , Giannese Francesca , Botrugno Oronza A , Gandolfi Giorgia , Balestrieri Chiara , Antoniotti Marco , Tonon Giovanni , Cittaro Davide
Published: May 2024

Motivation

Single-cell profiling has become a common practice to investigate the complexity of tissues, organs, and organisms. Recent technological advances are expanding our capabilities to profile various molecular layers beyond the transcriptome such as, but not limited to, the genome, the epigenome, and the proteome. Depending on the experimental procedure, these data can be obtained from separate assays or the very same cells. Yet, integration of more than two assays is currently not supported by the majority of the computational frameworks avaiable.

Results

We here propose a Multi-Omic data integration framework based on Wasserstein Generative Adversarial Networks suitable for the analysis of paired or unpaired data with a high number of modalities (>2). At the core of our strategy is a single network trained on all modalities together, limiting the computational burden when many molecular layers are evaluated.

Availability and implementation

Source code of our framework is available at https://github.com/vgiansanti/MOWGAN
Contribution of the seminal microbiome to paternal programming
Authors: Kilama Justine , Dahlen Carl R , Reynolds Lawrence P , Amat Samat
Published: May 2024

The field of Developmental Origins of Health and Disease has primarily focused on maternal programming of offspring health. However, emerging evidence suggests that paternal factors, including the seminal microbiome, could potentially play important roles in shaping the developmental trajectory and long-term offspring health outcomes. Historically, the microbes present in the semen were regarded as inherently pathogenic agents. However, this dogma has recently been challenged by the discovery of a diverse commensal microbial community within the semen of healthy males. In addition, recent studies suggest that the transmission of semen-associated microbes into the female reproductive tract during mating has potentials to not only influence female fertility and embryo development but could also contribute to paternal programming in the offspring. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge on the seminal microbiota in both humans and animals followed by discussing their potential involvement in paternal programming of offspring health. We also propose and discuss potential mechanisms through which paternal influences are transmitted to offspring via the seminal microbiome. Overall, this review provides insights into the seminal microbiome-based paternal programing, which will expand our understanding of the potential paternal programming mechanisms which are currently focused primarily on the epigenetic modifications, oxidative stresses, and cytokines.
One case of myxoid glioneuronal tumour in the left frontal lobe
Authors: Chu Jiayi , Hu Sheng , Wang Gangping , Hu Jibo , Xiao Wenbo
Published: May 2024

Myxoid glioneuronal tumour (MGNT), previously described as dysembryoplastic neuroepithelial tumour of the septum pellucidum, was classified as a new tumour type in the fifth edition of the WHO Central Nervous System Tumor Classification of 2021. This classification was based on its anatomical location, imaging features, and genetic characteristics. MGNTs are clinically rare and prone to misdiagnosis. In this report, we present a case of MGNT in the left frontal lobe, which was confirmed through surgical pathology.
Impact on in-depth immunophenotyping of delay to peripheral blood processing
Authors: Higdon Lauren E , Scheiding Sheila , Kus Anna M , Lim Noha , Long S Alice , Anderson Mark S , Wiedeman Alice E
Published: May 2024

Peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) immunophenotyping is crucial in tracking activation, disease state, and response to therapy in human subjects. Many studies require the shipping of blood from clinical sites to a laboratory for processing to PBMC, which can lead to delays that impact sample quality. We used an extensive cytometry by time-of-flight (CyTOF) immunophenotyping panel to analyze the impacts of delays to processing and distinct storage conditions on cell composition and quality of PBMC from seven adults across a range of ages, including two with rheumatoid arthritis. Two or more days of delay to processing resulted in extensive red blood cell contamination and increased variability of cell counts. While total memory and naïve B- and T-cell populations were maintained, 4-day delays reduced the frequencies of monocytes. Variation across all immune subsets increased with delays of up to 7 days in processing. Unbiased clustering analysis to define more granular subsets confirmed changes in PBMC composition, including decreases of classical and non-classical monocytes, basophils, plasmacytoid dendritic cells, and follicular helper T cells, with each subset impacted at a distinct time of delay. Expression of activation markers and chemokine receptors changed by Day 2, with differential impacts across subsets and markers. Our data support existing recommendations to process PBMC within 36 h of collection but provide guidance on appropriate immunophenotyping experiments with longer delays.
Deformation of transfersomes dispersed in hydrated deep eutectic solvent in stratum corneum
Authors: Takada Amika , Matsuoka Misato , Sakuragi Mina
Published: May 2024

The deformation of transfersomes (TFs) dispersed in deep eutectic solvents and applied to the stratum corneum (SC) was evaluated by small-angle X-ray scattering. We found that TFs permeated the SC, while the regularity and period of the multilayer structure of TFs deformed significantly, depending on the SC location and the time after application.
Determination of Azole Fungicide Residues in Fresh Juice by Magnetic Solid Phase Extraction Based on Fe3O4@ZnAl-LDH@MIL-53(Al) Sorbent in Combination with High-Performance Liquid Chromatograph
Authors: Yang Shu-Tong , Cao Yi-Wen , Zeng Zi-Ying , Gang Zheng , Chen Min , Du Bing-Yan , Su Miao-Miao , Yang Zhong-Hua , Tang Zhu-Hua , Zeng Yun-Liu
Published: May 2024

In this work, a magnetic adsorption material based on metal–organic framework (Fe3O4@ZnAl-LDH@MIL-53(Al)) was synthesized and used as an adsorbent in the process of magnetic solid phase extraction. Then, a high-performance liquid chromatograph was used to quantitatively detect triazole fungicides in samples. In order to verify the successful preparation of the material, a series of characterization analyses were carried out. Besides, the key parameters that may affect the extraction efficiency have been optimized, and under optimal conditions the three triazole fungicides showed good linearity in the range of 10–1000 μg/L (R2 ≥ 0.9796); Limit of detections were ranged from 0.013 to 0.030 μg/mL. Finally, the established method was applied to the detection of triazole fungicides in four fresh juice samples. The results showed that the target analyte was not detected in all the test samples. By detecting the recoveries (73.3–104.3%) and coefficient variation (RSD ≤ 6.8%) of triazole fungicides in fortified samples, it proved that this established method meets the requirements of pesticide residue analysis and showed excellent application potential.
A nox2/cybb zebrafish mutant with defective myeloid cell reactive oxygen species production displays normal initial neutrophil recruitment to sterile tail injuries
Authors: Isiaku Abdulsalam I , Zhang Zuobing , Pazhakh Vahid , Lieschke Graham J
Published: May 2024

Reactive oxygen species are important effectors and modifiers of the acute inflammatory response, recruiting phagocytes including neutrophils to sites of tissue injury. In turn, phagocytes such as neutrophils are both consumers and producers of reactive oxygen species. Phagocytes including neutrophils generate reactive oxygen species in an oxidative burst through the activity of a multimeric phagocytic nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase complex. Mutations in the NOX2/CYBB (previously gp91phox) nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidase subunit are the commonest cause of chronic granulomatous disease, a disease characterized by infection susceptibility and an inflammatory phenotype. To model chronic granulomatous disease, we made a nox2/cybb zebrafish (Danio rerio) mutant and demonstrated it to have severely impaired myeloid cell reactive oxygen species production. Reduced early survival of nox2 mutant embryos indicated an essential requirement for nox2 during early development. In nox2/cybb zebrafish mutants, the dynamics of initial neutrophil recruitment to both mild and severe surgical tailfin wounds was normal, suggesting that excessive neutrophil recruitment at the initiation of inflammation is not the primary cause of the “sterile” inflammatory phenotype of chronic granulomatous disease patients. This nox2 zebrafish mutant adds to existing in vivo models for studying reactive oxygen species function in myeloid cells including neutrophils in development and disease.
Hearing Impairment and Physical Activity and Physical Functioning in Older Adults: Baseline Results From the ACHIEVE Trial
Authors: Cai Yurun , Martinez-Amezcua Pablo , Betz Joshua F , Zhang Talan , Huang Alison R , Wanigatunga Amal A , Glynn Nancy W , Burgard Sheila , Chisolm Theresa H , Coresh Josef , Couper David , Deal Jennifer A , Gmelin Theresa , Goman Adele M , Gravens-Mueller Lisa , Hayden Kathleen M , Mitchell Christine M , Mosley Thomas , Pankow James S , Pike James R , Reed Nicholas S , Sanchez Victoria A , Lin Frank R , Schrack Jennifer A ,   for the ACHIEVE Collaborative Research Group
Published: May 2024

Background

Hearing loss is associated with restricted physical activity (PA) and impaired physical functioning, yet the relationship between severity of hearing impairment (HI) and novel PA measures in older adults with untreated HI is not well understood.

Methods

Analyses included 845 participants aged ≥70 years (mean = 76.6 years) with a better-hearing ear pure-tone average (PTA) ≥30 and <70 dB in the Aging and Cognitive Health Evaluation in Elders (ACHIEVE) study who wore an ActiGraph accelerometer for 7 days. Physical functioning measures included grip strength and the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB). Linear regression models estimated the association by HI level (moderate or greater [PTA ≥ 40 dB] vs mild [PTA < 40 dB]) and continuous hearing with total daily activity counts, active minutes/day, activity fragmentation, grip strength, and gait speed. Logistic regression models estimated odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of poor performance on the SPPB (≤6) and its subtests (≤2). Mixed-effects models estimated differences by HI level in activity by time of day.

Results

Participants with moderate or greater HI had poorer physical functioning, particularly balance (OR = 2.17, 95% CI = 1.29–3.67), versus those with mild impairment. There was no association of HI level with activity quantities or fragmentation. For diurnal patterns of activity, participants with moderate or greater HI had fewer activity counts in the afternoon (12:00 pm –05:59 pm).

Conclusions

Older adults with worse hearing had shifted diurnal patterns and poorer balance performance. Exercise programs should be tailored to older adults with different levels of HI to maintain PA and physical functioning, particularly balance control.
The Association of Nursing Homes’ Organizational Context With Care Aide Empowerment: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Iaconi Alba , Hoben Matthias , Berta, PhD Whitney , Duan Yinfei , Norton Peter G , Song Yuting , Chamberlain Stephanie A , Beeber Anna , Anderson Ruth A , Lanham Holly J , Perez Janelle , Wang Jing , Choroschun Katharina , Shrestha Shovana , Cummings Greta , Estabrooks Carole A
Published: May 2024

Background and Objectives

Organizational context is thought to influence whether care aides feel empowered, but we lack empirical evidence in the nursing home sector. Our objective was to examine the association of features of nursing homes’ unit organizational context with care aides’ psychological empowerment.

Research Design and Methods

This cross-sectional study analyzed survey data from 3765 care aides in 91 Western Canadian nursing homes. Random-intercept mixed-effects regressions were used to examine the associations between nursing home unit organizational context and care aides’ psychological empowerment, controlling for care aide, care unit, and nursing home covariates.

Results

Organizational (IVs) culture, social capital, and care aides’ perceptions of sufficient time to do their work were positively associated with all four components of psychological empowerment (DVs): competence (0.17 [0.13, 0.21] for culture, 0.18 [0.14, 0.21] for social capital, 0.03 [0.01, 0.05] for time), meaning (0.21 [0.18, 0.25] for culture, 0.19 [0.16, 0.23] for social capital, 0.03 [0.01, 0.05 for time), self-determination (0.38 [0.33, 0.44] for culture, 0.17 [0.12, 0.21] for social capital, 0.08 [0.05, 0.11] for time), and impact (0.26 [0.21, 0.31] for culture, 0.23 [0.19, 0.28] for social capital, 0.04 [0.01, 0.07] for time).

Discussion and Implications

In this study, modifiable elements of organizational context (i.e., culture, social capital, and time) were positively associated with care aides’ psychological empowerment. Future interventions might usefully target these modifiable elements of unit level context in the interest of assessing their effects on staff work attitudes and outcomes, including the quality of resident care.
Rhabdomyolysis, Acute Kidney Injury, and Mortality in Ebola Virus Disease: Retrospective Analysis of Cases From the Eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo, 2019
Authors: Kasereka Masumbuko Claude , Mukadi-Bamuleka Daniel , Kitenge-Omasumbu Richard , Edidi-Atani François , Kuamfumu Meris Matondo , Mulangu Sabue , Tshiani-Mbaya Olivier , Malengera Vicky Kambale , Mbala-Kingebeni Placide , Ahuka-Mundeke Steve , Muyembe-Tamfum Jean-Jacques , Lee Bonita E , Houston Stan , Mumtaz Zubia , Hawkes Michael T
Published: May 2024

Background

Skeletal muscle injury in Ebola virus disease (EVD) has been reported, but its association with morbidity and mortality remains poorly defined.

Methods

This retrospective study included patients admitted to 2 EVD treatment units over an 8-month period in 2019 during an EVD epidemic in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Results

An overall 333 patients (median age, 30 years; 58% female) had at least 1 creatine kinase (CK) measurement (n = 2229; median, 5/patient [IQR, 1–11]). Among patients, 271 (81%) had an elevated CK level (>380 U/L); 202 (61%) had rhabdomyolysis (CK >1000 IU/L); and 45 (14%) had severe rhabdomyolysis (≥5000 U/L). Among survivors, the maximum CK level was a median 1600 (IQR, 550–3400), peaking 3.4 days after admission (IQR, 2.3–5.5) and decreasing thereafter. Among fatal cases, the CK rose monotonically until death, with a median maximum CK level of 2900 U/L (IQR, 1500–4900). Rhabdomyolysis at admission was an independent predictor of acute kidney injury (adjusted odds ratio, 2.2 [95% CI, 1.2–3.8]; P = .0065) and mortality (adjusted hazard ratio, 1.7 [95% CI, 1.03–2.9]; P = .037).

Conclusions

Rhabdomyolysis is associated with acute kidney injury and mortality in patients with EVD. These findings may inform clinical practice by identifying laboratory monitoring priorities and highlighting the importance of fluid management.
Evaluating the Use of UV Absorbance for the Differentiation of Humified From Non-Humified Materials
Authors: Rahbari Mohammad , Psutka Jarrod , Lamar Richard , Rosario-Ortiz Fernando L
Published: May 2024

Background

Products containing humic acids (HA) and fulvic acids (FA) have significant commercial potential; however, unknown to the consumer, some products may be mislabeled or contain adulterants. The prevalence of mislabeling and adulterants is found primarily in FA products. Using UV-Vis spectroscopy to differentiate between real and fake FA products is practical and desirable.

Objective

The objective of this study was to expand the dataset generated using a UV-Vis-based method proposed by Mayhew et al., 2023.

Methods

In total, 30 test samples were used to generate 90 test portions (three replicates per test sample) for analysis using the UV-Vis methodology outlined in Mayhew et al., 2023, which in this study is referred to as the UVAC (UV absorbance confirmation) method.

Results

None of the 13 FA test samples investigated were determined as humified using the UVAC method. The FA samples studied consisted of two IHSS standards, five commercial FA products (CFAP), and six full FA fractions (SFA), which were isolated from six known solid humic material sources (SHMS). There was a leonardite, a humalite, and four peat sources used as the SHMS. Analysis of the neutralized extract of the SHMS found only 3/6 SHMS were determined as humified. Six HA (SHA) test samples were also generated by isolating the HA from the SHMS, and only 3/6 SHA were determined as humified.

Conclusions

Given the high prevalence of false determinations, more work is needed to improve the method so that it can be used by industry or regulators.

Highlights

The proposed method failed to determine IHSS FA standards as humified. Although the method is practical, it needs improvement and further study before it can be used for reliable differentiation of real from fake FA.
Immunotherapy drives mesenchymal tumor cell state shift and TME immune response in glioblastoma patients
Authors: Hendriksen Josephine D , Locallo Alessio , Maarup Simone , Debnath Olivia , Ishaque Naveed , Hasselbach Benedikte , Skjøth-Rasmussen Jane , Yde Christina Westmose , Poulsen Hans S , Lassen Ulrik , Weischenfeldt Joachim
Published: May 2024

Background

Glioblastoma is a highly aggressive type of brain tumor for which there is no curative treatment available. Immunotherapies have shown limited responses in unselected patients, and there is an urgent need to identify mechanisms of treatment resistance to design novel therapy strategies.

Methods

Here we investigated the phenotypic and transcriptional dynamics at single-cell resolution during nivolumab immune checkpoint treatment of glioblastoma patients.

Results

We present the integrative paired single-cell RNA-seq analysis of 76 tumor samples from patients in a clinical trial of the PD-1 inhibitor nivolumab and untreated patients. We identify a distinct aggressive phenotypic signature in both tumor cells and the tumor microenvironment in response to nivolumab. Moreover, nivolumab-treatment was associated with an increased transition to mesenchymal stem-like tumor cells, and an increase in TAMs and exhausted and proliferative T cells. We verify and extend our findings in large external glioblastoma dataset (n = 298), develop a latent immune signature and find 18% of primary glioblastoma samples to be latent immune, associated with mesenchymal tumor cell state and TME immune response. Finally, we show that latent immune glioblastoma patients are associated with shorter overall survival following immune checkpoint treatment (P = .0041).

Conclusions

We find a resistance mechanism signature in one fifth of glioblastoma patients associated with a tumor-cell transition to a more aggressive mesenchymal-like state, increase in TAMs and proliferative and exhausted T cells in response to immunotherapy. These patients may instead benefit from neuro-oncology therapies targeting mesenchymal tumor cells.
Integrated spin-wave quantum memory
Authors: Zhu Tian-Xiang , Su Ming-Xu , Liu Chao , Liu Yu-Ping , Wang Chao-Fan , Liu Pei-Xi , Han Yong-Jian , Zhou Zong-Quan , Li Chuan-Feng , Guo Guang-Can
Published: May 2024

Photonic integrated quantum memories are essential for the construction of scalable quantum networks. Spin-wave quantum storage, which can support on-demand retrieval with a long lifetime, is indispensable for practical applications, but has never been demonstrated in an integrated solid-state device. Here, we demonstrate spin-wave quantum storage based on a laser-written waveguide fabricated in a 151Eu3+:Y2SiO5 crystal, using both the atomic frequency comb and noiseless photon-echo protocols. Qubits encoded with single-photon-level inputs are stored and retrieved with a fidelity of ${94.9\%\pm 1.2\%}$, which is far beyond the maximal fidelity that can be obtained with any classical device. Our results underline the potential of laser-written integrated devices for practical applications in large-scale quantum networks, such as the construction of multiplexed quantum repeaters in an integrated configuration and high-density transportable quantum memories.
Nodal precession of a hot Jupiter transiting the edge of a late A-type star TOI-1518
Authors: Watanabe Noriharu , Narita Norio , Hori Yasunori
Published: May 2024

TOI-1518b, a hot Jupiter around a late A-type star, is one of the few planetary systems that transit the edge of the stellar surface (the impact parameter b ∼ 0.9) among hot Jupiters around hot stars (Cabot et al. 2021, AJ, 162, 218). The high rotation speed of the host star (∼85 km s−1) and the nearly polar orbit of the planet (∼120○) may cause a nodal precession. In this study, we report the nodal precession undergone by TOI-1518 b. This system is the fourth planetary system in which nodal precession is detected. We investigate the time change in b from the photometric data of TOI-1518 acquired in 2019 and 2022 with TESS and from the spectral transit data of TOI-1518b obtained in 2020 with two high-dispersion spectrographs; CARMENES and EXPRES. We find that the value of b is decreasing with db$/$dt = −0.0116 ± 0.0036 yr−1, indicating that the transit trajectory is moving toward the center of the stellar surface. We also estimate the minimum value of the quadrupole mass moment of TOI-1518, J2,min = 4.41 × 10−5, and the logarithm of the Love number of TOI-1518, log k2 = −2.17 ± 0.33, from the nodal precession.
Dark matter search in the Perseus cluster with simultaneous analysis of Hitomi and Suzaku data
Authors: Fukuichi Makoto , Kitamoto Shunji , Sawada Makoto , Tamura Takayuki
Published: May 2024

The reported detection of a 3.5 keV emission line in the Perseus cluster, possibly originating from dark matter decay, is still under scrutiny. Despite extensive observations, the detection has not yet been confirmed, and its origin remains a topic of active debate. Most of the previous searches relied on spectroscopy with X-ray charge-coupled devices, such as the X-ray Imaging Spectrometer on Suzaku. Although this provided a large amount of observational data, it only offered moderate spectral resolution. The X-ray astronomy satellite Hitomi offers new results using its high-resolution X-ray spectrometer (Soft X-ray Spectrometer). However, the data gathered were somewhat limited in terms of statistics. In this work, we present the results of a new spectral analysis of the Perseus cluster that combines the spectra from the XIS and SXS, along with the Soft X-ray Imager on Hitomi, thereby complementing each other’s capability. Our search was conducted for a line emission or absorption in the energy range of 2.6–5.9 keV assuming the Navarro–Frenk–White mass distribution with a concentration parameter of 5.0 and virial radius, r200, of 1.79 Mpc. We also considered the instrumental systematic uncertainty caused by the effective area calibration, which we empirically evaluated using the Crab Nebula spectra. On combining these results, we found no significant line features above the baryonic thermal emission from the intra-cluster medium. The upper limit at 3.5 keV, at a 3σ confidence level, is tightly constrained to 4.2 × 10−5 photons cm−2 s−1 for the $15^{\prime }$ circular sky region, which encloses a dark matter mass of $1.67\times 10^{14}\, M_{\odot }$, assuming a line velocity dispersion of 180 km s−1. This constraint is three times tighter than the previous one, which only used the SXS. On the basis of these findings, we provide the upper limit of the dark matter decay rate and the mixing angle for the sterile neutrino origin.
AI takeover and human disempowerment
Authors: Bales Adam
Published: May 2024

Some take seriously the possibility of artificial intelligence (AI) takeover, where AI systems seize power in a way that leads to human disempowerment. Assessing the likelihood of takeover requires answering empirical questions about the future of AI technologies and the context in which AI will operate. In many cases, philosophers are poorly placed to answer these questions. However, some prior questions are more amenable to philosophical techniques. What does it mean to speak of AI empowerment and human disempowerment? And what empirical claims must hold for the former to lead to the latter? In this paper, I address these questions, providing foundations for further evaluation of the likelihood of takeover.
Modular and integrative activity reporters enhance biochemical studies in the yeast ER
Authors: Martinusen Samantha G , Slaton Ethan W , Nelson Sage E , Pulgar Marian A , Besu Julia T , Simas Cassidy F , Denard Carl A
Published: May 2024

The yeast endoplasmic reticulum sequestration and screening (YESS) system is a broadly applicable platform to perform high-throughput biochemical studies of post-translational modification enzymes (PTM-enzymes). This system enables researchers to profile and engineer the activity and substrate specificity of PTM-enzymes and to discover inhibitor-resistant enzyme mutants. In this study, we expand the capabilities of YESS by transferring its functional components to integrative plasmids. The YESS integrative system yields uniform protein expression and protease activities in various configurations, allows one to integrate activity reporters at two independent loci and to split the system between integrative and centromeric plasmids. We characterize these integrative reporters with two viral proteases, Tobacco etch virus (TEVp) and 3-chymotrypsin like protease (3CLpro), in terms of coefficient of variance, signal-to-noise ratio and fold-activation. Overall, we provide a framework for chromosomal-based studies that is modular, enabling rigorous high-throughput assays of PTM-enzymes in yeast.
Homology and cohomology via the partial group algebra
Authors: Alves Marcelo Muniz , Dokuchaev Mikhailo , KochloukovA Dessislava H
Published: May 2024

We study partial homology and cohomology from the ring theoretic point of view via the partial group algebra $\hspace{2pt} \mathbb{K}_{par} G$. In particular, we link the partial homology and cohomology of a group G with coefficients in an irreducible (resp. indecomposable) $\hspace{2pt} \mathbb{K}_{par} G$-module M with the ordinary homology and cohomology groups of a subgroup H of $G,$ where H depends on $M,$ with coefficients in an appropriate irreducible (resp. indecomposable) $\hspace{2pt} \mathbb{K} H$-module. Furthermore, we compare the standard cohomological dimension $cd_{\hspace{2pt} \mathbb{K}}(G)$ (over a field $\hspace{2pt} \mathbb{K}$) with the partial cohomological dimension $cd_{\hspace{2pt} \mathbb{K}}^{par}(G)$ (over $\hspace{2pt} \mathbb{K}$) and show that $cd_{\hspace{2pt} \mathbb{K}}^{par}(G) \geq cd_{\hspace{2pt} \mathbb{K}}(G)$ and that there is equality for $G = \mathbb{Z}$.
Monte Carlo simulation for photon energy response from the RADOS dosemeter
Authors: da Silva Ferreira Max
Published: May 2024

Ionizing radiation interaction models are commonly included in Monte Carlo codes. However, as there are different models and different output quantities available, it is important to understand the physical phenomena used. So, the aim of this study is to analyze the photon interaction model called Simple Physical Treatment of the Monte Carlo code MCNPX to estimate the energy dependence of photons from the RADOS dosemeter and to validate this calculation method by comparing it with experimental results found in the literature. The energy deposition in the MTS-N detector and the air kerma were obtained accompanied by their uncertainties, which varied between 1.5% and 3.0%. The RADOS dosemeter simulation and the calculation methodology applied in this study have been validated. Therefore, when using the Simple Physical Treatment model, the effective dose can be corrected by a correction factor calculated from the simulated results.
Parametrization of biological assumptions to simulate growth of tree branching architectures
Authors: Nauber Tristan , Hodač Ladislav , Wäldchen Jana , Mäder Patrick
Published: May 2024

Modeling and simulating the growth of the branching of tree species remains a challenge. With existing approaches, we can reconstruct or rebuild the branching architectures of real tree species, but the simulation of the growth process remains unresolved. First, we present a tree growth model to generate branching architectures that resemble real tree species. Secondly, we use a quantitative morphometric approach to infer the shape similarity of the generated simulations and real tree species. Within a functional–structural plant model, we implement a set of biological parameters that affect the branching architecture of trees. By modifying the parameter values, we aim to generate basic shapes of spruce, pine, oak and poplar. Tree shapes are compared using geometric morphometrics of landmarks that capture crown and stem outline shapes. Five biological parameters, namely xylem flow, shedding rate, proprioception, gravitysense and lightsense, most influenced the generated tree branching patterns. Adjusting these five parameters resulted in the different tree shapes of spruce, pine, oak, and poplar. The largest effect was attributed to gravity, as phenotypic responses to this effect resulted in different growth directions of gymnosperm and angiosperm branching architectures. Since we were able to obtain branching architectures that resemble real tree species by adjusting only a few biological parameters, our model is extendable to other tree species. Furthermore, the model will also allow the simulation of structural tree–environment interactions. Our simplifying approach to shape comparison between tree species, landmark geometric morphometrics, showed that even the crown–trunk outlines capture species differences based on their contrasting branching architectures.
Presence of Trypanosoma cruzi TcI and Trypanosoma dionisii in sylvatic bats from Yucatan, Mexico
Authors: Moo-Millan Joel Israel , Tu Weihong , de Jesús Montalvo-Balam Teresa , Ibarra-López Martha Pilar , Hernández-Betancourt Silvia , Jesús May-Concha Irving , Ibarra-Cerdeña Carlos Napoleón , Barnabé Christian , Dumonteil Eric , Waleckx Etienne
Published: May 2024

Background

Chagas disease is caused by Trypanosoma cruzi, whose genetic structure is divided into six discrete typing units (DTUs) known as TcI-TcVI. In the Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico, information regarding the DTUs circulating in wild mammals is scarce, while this is important knowledge for our understanding of T. cruzi transmission dynamics.

Methods

In the current study, we sampled wild mammals in a sylvatic site of the Yucatan Peninsula and assessed their infection with T. cruzi by PCR. Then, for infected mammals, we amplified and sequenced nuclear and mitochondrial T. cruzi genetic markers for DTU identification.

Results

In total, we captured 99 mammals belonging to the orders Chiroptera, Rodentia and Didelphimorphia. The prevalence of infection with T. cruzi was 9% (9/99; 95% CI [5, 16]), and we identified TcI in a Jamaican fruit bat, Artibeus jamaicensis. Moreover, we fortuitously identified Trypanosoma dionisii in another Jamaican fruit bat and detected an unidentified Trypanosoma species in a third specimen. While the latter discoveries were not expected because we used primers designed for T. cruzi, this study is the first to report the identification of T. dionisii in a bat from Yucatan, Mexico, adding to a recent first report of T. dionisii in bats from Veracruz, and first report of this Trypanosoma species in Mexico.

Conclusion

Further research is needed to enhance our knowledge of T. cruzi DTUs and Trypanosoma diversity circulating in wildlife in Southeastern Mexico.
A challenging case of borderline lepromatous leprosy non-responsive to WHO-MDT: exploring approaches beyond WHO-MDT
Authors: Sharma Apoorva , Parkhi Mayur , Chhabra Seema , Narang Tarun , Handa Sanjeev , Dogra Sunil
Published: May 2024

Just as we prioritize personalized medicine for various other medical conditions, we should also include a neglected disease like leprosy, ensuring that patients receive the best care possible and improving their quality of life. Our case highlights the importance of instituting an alternate therapeutic regimen in a scenario where there is a lack of clinical response to multidrug therapy, even in the absence of documented drug resistance of the currently available molecular diagnostics. The search for the perfect regimen tailored for each individual leprosy patient should continue. Alternate anti-leprosy therapy is highly useful in cases with confirmed drug resistance or clinically non-responsive cases; however, their misuse should also be strictly avoided to prevent the development of resistance to them.
Investigating gout flares: beyond a definition
Authors: Sutherland Charles , Gaffo Angelo L.
Published: May 2024

Purpose of review

Gout flares are a paramount component of disease burden inflicted by gout onto the patient. Furthermore, they are included in the core domain set for long-term gout studies recognized by Outcome Measures in Rheumatology. Along with a validated classification criterion for gout, gout investigators have turned their efforts into defining and characterizing the gout flare. This brief review will summarize the efforts that have been done to define and characterize a gout flare in clinical studies.

Recent findings

Recent findings include a validated definition of a gout flare that has been utilized in novel clinical studies, use of technology to monitor for gout flares and their effects on patient life, and qualitative analyses into the disease burden that a patient undergoes.

Although guidelines for core outcome domains have been well established, there is question in methods of measuring and reporting gout flares in long-term trials. Furthermore, there is question as to the effectiveness of the agreed upon instruments’ abilities to fully capture the disease burden experienced by patients with gout. A combination of outcome measurements including binary data (gout flare present or absent) along with a comprehensive measurement of disease burden over time would theoretically provide a more accurate description of the disease and serve as a basis for intervention development.
Pediatric immunotherapy and HIV control
Authors: Chinunga Tehillah T. , Chahroudi Ann , Ribeiro Susan P.
Published: May 2024

Purpose of review

Highlighting opportunities/potential for immunotherapy by understanding dynamics of HIV control during pediatric HIV infection with and without antiretroviral therapy (ART), as modeled in Simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV) and Simian-human immunodeficiency virus (SHIV)-infected rhesus macaques and observed in clinical trials. This review outlines mode of transmission, pathogenesis of pediatric HIV, unique aspects of the infant immune system, infant macaque models and immunotherapies.

Recent findings

During the earliest stages of perinatal HIV infection, the infant immune system is characterized by a unique environment defined by immune tolerance and lack of HIV-specific T cell responses which contribute to disease progression. Moreover, primary lymphoid organs such as the thymus appear to play a distinct role in HIV pathogenesis in children living with HIV (CLWH). Key components of the immune system determine the degree of viral control, targets for strategies to induce viral control, and the response to immunotherapy. The pursuit of highly potent broadly neutralizing antibodies (bNAbs) and T cell vaccines has revolutionized the approach to HIV cure. Administration of HIV-1-specific bNAbs, targeting the highly variable envelope improves humoral immunity, and T cell vaccines induce or improve T cell responses such as the cytotoxic effects of HIV-1-specific CD8+T cells, both of which are promising options towards virologic control and ART-free remission as evidenced by completed and ongoing clinical trials.

Understanding early events during HIV infection and disease progression in CLWH serves as a foundation for predicting or targeting later outcomes by harnessing the immune system's natural responses. The developing pediatric immune system offers multiple opportunities for specific long-term immunotherapies capable of improving quality of life during adolescence and adulthood.
Optimal Timing and Duration of Beta-Blocker Therapy for Preventing Postoperative Atrial Fibrillation: A Literature Review
Authors: Abouzid Mohamed Riad , Nwaukwa Chima
Published: May 2024

This literature review explores the intricate landscape of postoperative atrial fibrillation (POAF), a common complication that arises following heart surgery. The analysis highlights the significant risks associated with POAF, including stroke, extended hospital stay, and increased healthcare costs. POAF, together with its transient character, indicates an augmented susceptibility to atrial fibrillation in the long run. Despite extensive research on preventive measures, such as beta-blocker medication, uncertainties remain regarding the optimal timing and duration of beta-blocker therapy for preventing POAF. The existing evidence suggests that starting beta-blocker treatment early, ideally within the first 24–48 hours after surgery, may be effective in reducing the occurrence of POAF. Nevertheless, there is a noticeable absence of agreement regarding the optimal length of this therapy. Conflicting viewpoints arise, with certain research calling for brief therapies, while others propose the possible benefits linked to extended treatment. This review highlights the urgent requirement for more research to precisely adjust guidelines, taking into account patient-specific factors and considering the consequences for long-term results. The call to action entails a request for the implementation of uniform definitions, the conduct of prospective randomized controlled trials, and the utilization of larger sample sizes in future investigations. These characteristics are considered critical in providing the medical community with strong evidence, which is crucial for making well-informed therapeutic decisions.
Goflikicept and Related IL-1 Inhibitors in the Treatment of Recurrent Pericarditis
Authors: Feldman Jared M. , Frishman William H. , Aronow Wilbert S.
Published: May 2024

Anticytokine biologics are a promising anti-inflammatory therapy for recurrent pericarditis. Several studies have proved the efficacy and safety of interleukin-1 (IL-1) inhibitors, such as anakinra and rilonacept in patients with recurrent pericarditis. Treatment with goflikicept in a recent phase 2 and 3 trial significantly reduced the pericarditis recurrence rate compared with both the placebo and the allowed withdrawal of standard-of-care therapy. Patients with idiopathic recurrent pericarditis (IRP) achieved remission within the first 14 days of therapy. In rilonacept inhibition of interleukin-1 alpha and beta for recurrent pericarditis (phase 3 trial of interleukin-1 trap rilonacept in recurrent pericarditis), rilonacept led to a significantly lower risk of pericarditis recurrence than placebo (hazard ratio, 0.04; P < 0.001) and a rapid resolution of recurrent pericarditis episodes. However, 74% of patients in the placebo group demonstrated recurrence, compared with 7% in the rilonacept group. The efficacy of anakinra was demonstrated by the AIRTRIP (anakinra-treatment of recurrent idiopathic pericarditis) trial, which showed a reduction in the incidence of recurrent pericarditis in anakinra versus placebo-treated patients (18.2% vs 90%). In patients with recurrences, the mean time to flare was 28.4 days in the placebo group versus 76.5 days in the anakinra group. IL-1 inhibitors require further research and have the potential to decrease the use of first-line drug regimens for recurrent pericarditis that are not tolerated in specific patient groups.
Precision Medicine in Congenital Heart Disease, Rheumatic Heart Disease, and Kawasaki Disease of Children: An Overview of Literature
Authors: Khan Muhammad Hamza , Ahsan Areeba , Mehta Fena , Kanawala Arundati , Mondal Riddhi , Dilshad Aamna , Akbar Anum
Published: May 2024

Congenital heart disease and common acquired heart diseases like Kawasaki disease and rheumatic heart disease are prevalent cardiovascular conditions in children worldwide. Despite the availability of treatment options, they continue to be significant contributors to morbidity and mortality. Advancements in early diagnosis, improvements in treatment approaches, and overcoming resistance to available treatments are crucial to reduce morbidity. Researchers have turned to precision medicine to tackle these challenges. We aimed to analyze the existing literature concerning the utilization of precision medicine in congenital heart disease, rheumatic heart disease, and Kawasaki disease. The emphasis is placed on comprehending the key themes explored in these studies and evaluating the present state of their clinical integration. The central theme of most studies revolves around the examination of genetic factors. Despite promising research outcomes, limitations in these studies indicate that the clinical implementation of precision medicine in these conditions remains a distant prospect, necessitating additional exploration and attention to confounding factors.