bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Anisotropic materials with abnormal Poisson’s ratios and acoustic velocities
Authors: Chi Chunxia , Cui Haixu , Ding Hairui , Kong Jun , Dong Xiao
Published: May 2024

Isotropic materials are required to adhere to various mechanical principles due to their limited thermal stability. For instance, it is essential for Poisson’s ratio to be within the range of −1 to 0.5, and the longitudinal wave velocity must exceed the transverse wave velocity. Nevertheless, perfect crystals, as anisotropic materials, have the ability to defy conventional rules. Through the integration of high-throughput processes and first-principles calculations, a comprehensive exploration of known materials was conducted, resulting in the establishment of a database featuring an extreme anisotropic mechanism. This included the identification of abnormal Poisson’s ratios (with the directional Poisson’s ratio ranging from −3.00 to 3.67), the discovery of extreme negative linear compressibility, the determination of the upper and lower limits of the sound velocity, and other associated properties. Several materials with abnormal Poisson’s ratios (<−1 or >0.5) were listed, and their peculiar mechanical behavior, wherein the volume decreased counterintuitively with uniaxial tension, was discussed. Finally, this study focused on the velocities of longitudinal and transverse waves, with specific emphasis on materials exhibiting transverse wave velocities that exceeded the longitudinal wave velocities.
Research on the flowback mechanism of fiber-controlled proppant based on fiber strength force
Authors: Zhao Zhihong , He Yi , Guo Jianchun , Liu Ziqing , Zhou Xiaoyu , Zhang Ran
Published: May 2024

Fiber sand control is widely used on site due to its advantages such as easy operation, significant effects, and low cost. However, the mechanism of fiber control proppant flowback is currently unclear, and the main controlling factors affecting the critical flow velocity are not yet clear. There is a lack of relevant theoretical support to optimize the design of fiber sand control. This article uses composite material theory to analogically calculate the tensile strength of fiber-reinforced sand and friction reinforcement theory to analogically calculate the shear strength of fiber-reinforced sand. The relationship between fiber strength force and tensile strength and shear strength is proposed, combined with the different stress conditions of proppant particles before and after fracture closure, and a fiber-controlled proppant flowback strength model is established based on the force arm balance. The critical velocity of proppant was calculated and compared through the stability experiment of fiber-reinforced proppant filling layer, and the accuracy of the model was verified and the influencing factors were analyzed. The results show that the influence of tensile strength and shear strength on fiber strength at the early stage of fracture closure is 0.2 and 0.8, respectively, and that after fracture closure is 0.1 and 0.9, respectively. The critical velocity calculated by the model is basically consistent with the experimental results. The critical velocity is most affected by the particle size and closure pressure of proppant, followed by the amount of fiber, and the influence of fiber length and diameter is relatively small.
Arrays of nano-high-transition temperature superconductor quantum interference devices
Authors: Li Hao , Cai Han , Sarkar Nirjhar , LeFebvre Jay C. , Cho Ethan Y. , Cybart Shane A.
Published: May 2024

We report the fabrication and testing of arrays of nanoscale superconducting quantum interference devices (SQUIDs) directly written into a thin film of the high-transition temperature superconductor YBa2Cu-3O7−δ with a focused helium ion beam. We compare three array configurations with 400 nm by 400 nm nanoSQUIDs connected in series and parallel and a two-dimensional (2D) combination of both. Our electrical transport measurements show that series arrays of three nanoSQUIDs exhibit modulation voltages greater than 1 mV and that combining the devices in parallel greatly enhances the slope of the voltage–magnetic field characteristic. A 2D array with 3 SQUIDS in series and 7 in parallel exhibited a transfer function of 5.51 mV/mT.
A Bayesian optimization framework for the control of combustion instability of a bluff-body stabilized combustor
Authors: Yang Jun , Shao Changxiao , Wang Lei , Wen Qizhe , Yang Niewei , Chen Zhi X. , Li Lei , An Qiang , Jin Tai , Luo Kun
Published: May 2024

Control of combustion instability for a realistic gas-turbine combustor is challenging. This work aims to establish an efficient numerical framework for optimization to improve the combustion stability of a bluff-body combustor. Large eddy simulations of the spray combustion process are conducted, and the experimental measurements are used to evaluate the numerical accuracy of the baseline case. The air preheating temperature, the Sauter mean diameter of fuel droplets, and the location of liquid fuel injection are regarded as input variables. The root mean square of pressure amplitude is regarded as an optimization objective. The Bayesian optimization framework is proposed that includes the sampling process, surrogate model, acquisition function, and genetic algorithm optimizer processes. It is found that PRMS can be reduced by 64% for the optimized case compared to the baseline case using only 17 sample evaluations. This work is promising as it provides an effective optimization framework for the development of next-generation gas-turbine combustors.
Cellular uptake of active nonspherical nanoparticles
Authors: Xiao Ke , Li Jing , Ma Rui , Wu Chen-Xu
Published: May 2024

Due to the potential applications in biomedical engineering, it becomes more and more important to understand the process of engulfment and internalization of nanoparticles (NPs) by cell membranes. Despite the fact that the interaction between cell membranes and passive particles has been widely studied, the interaction between cell membranes and self-propelled nonspherical NPs remains to be elucidated. Here, we present a theoretical model to systematically investigate the influence of the active force, aspect ratio of NPs, particle size, and membrane properties (adhesion energy density and membrane tension) on the cellular uptake of a nonspherical nanoparticle. It is found that the active force generated by an NP can trigger a type of first-order wrapping transition from a small partial wrapping state to a large one. In addition, the phase diagram in the force-aspect ratio (particle size, adhesion energy density, and membrane tension) space displays more complex behaviors compared with that for the passive wrapping mediated merely by adhesion. These results may provide useful guidance to the study of activity-driven cellular entry of active particles into cells.
Recent advances on two-dimensional material-based nanosystems for gene delivery
Authors: Wang Mengjie , Li Dan , Zhu Jiangtao , Liu Junyu , Yin Yandong , Su Yang , Jin Chanyuan , Li Juan , Zhang Can Yang
Published: May 2024

Gene therapy has been extensively investigated and widely used in biomedical fields, such as cancer treatment. However, the most important issues for gene therapy are stability, targeting effect, transfection efficacy, and safety of gene formulation after administration, which seriously limit the further application of gene therapy in clinic. Therefore, gene delivery could be a promising strategy for overcoming these challenges. Two-dimensional (2D) materials are rising nanomaterials with excellent physical and chemical properties, including large specific surface area, easy modification, high conversion efficiency of light, and good biocompatibility, which have achieved promising applications as vehicles for gene delivery in the disease treatment. In this review, we first summarized the research progress of 2D material-based nanosystems for gene delivery to improve the therapeutic efficacy. We discussed that 2D material-based gene delivery nanosystems showed high therapeutic efficacy for many diseases treatment, especially cancer. Furthermore, we also proposed that surface modification of 2D materials might be a promising strategy to prepare multi-functional gene carriers for combination therapy with enhanced treatment efficacy. Finally, the future research progress, challenges, and prospects of 2D material-based nanosystems for gene therapy were discussed and concluded. Conclusively, we believe that 2D material-based nanosystems with good biocompatibility and high transfection efficiency would be potentially used in clinical settings to improve the therapeutic efficacy of gene therapy.
Chromosome size-dependent polar ejection force impairs mammalian mitotic error correction
Authors: Chong Megan K. , Rosas-Salvans Miquel , Tran Vanna , Dumont Sophie
Published: May 2024

Accurate chromosome segregation requires sister kinetochores to biorient, attaching to opposite spindle poles. To this end, the mammalian kinetochore destabilizes incorrect attachments and stabilizes correct ones, but how it discriminates between these is not yet clear. Here, we test the model that kinetochore tension is the stabilizing cue and ask how chromosome size impacts that model. We live image PtK2 cells, with just 14 chromosomes, widely ranging in size, and find that long chromosomes align at the metaphase plate later than short chromosomes. Enriching for errors and imaging error correction live, we show that long chromosomes exhibit a specific delay in correcting attachments. Using chromokinesin overexpression and laser ablation to perturb polar ejection forces, we find that chromosome size and force on arms determine alignment order. Thus, we propose a model where increased force on long chromosomes can falsely stabilize incorrect attachments, delaying their biorientation. As such, long chromosomes may require compensatory mechanisms for correcting errors to avoid chromosomal instability.
Global higher regularity and decay estimates for positive solutions of fractional equations in
RN
*
Authors: Deng Yinbin , Yang Xian
Published: May 2024

In the paper, we study the global higher regularity and decay estimates of the positive solutions for the following fractional equations

{

(
−
Δ
)

s

u
+
u
=

|

u

|

p
−
2

u

in

 

R

N

,

lim

|
x

|

→
∞

u

(
x
)

=
0
,

u
∈

H
s

(

R

N

)

,

(0.1)

where

s
∈
(
0
,
1
)

,

N
>
2
s

,

2
<
p
<

2
s
∗

:=

2
N

N
−
2
s

and

(
−
Δ

)
s

is the fractional Laplacian. Let Q be a positive solution of (0.1). We prove that

Q
∈

C

k
,
γ

(

R

N

)
∩

H
k

(

R

N

)

and obtain the decay estimates of D

k

Q as

|
x

|

→
∞

for all

k
∈

N

+

and

γ
∈
(
0
,
1
)

. The argument relies on the Bessel kernel, comparison principle, Fourier analysis and iteration methods.
Asymptotic theory for quadratic variation of harmonizable fractional stable processes
Authors: Basse-O’Connor Andreas , Podolskij Mark
Published: May 2024

In this paper we study the asymptotic theory for quadratic variation of a harmonizable fractional

α
\alpha

-stable process. We show a law of large numbers with a non-ergodic limit and obtain weak convergence towards a Lévy-driven Rosenblatt random variable when the Hurst parameter satisfies

H
∈
(
1

/

2
,
1
)

H\in (1/2,1)

and

α
(
1
−
H
)
>
1

/

2

\alpha (1-H)>1/2

. This result complements the asymptotic theory for fractional stable processes.
The Burgers-type equation driven by a stochastic measure
Authors: Radchenko Vadym
Published: May 2024

We study the one-dimensional equation driven by a stochastic measure

μ
\mu

. For

μ
\mu

we assume only

σ
\sigma

-additivity in probability. Our results imply the global existence and uniqueness of the solution to the heat equation and the local existence and uniqueness of the solution to the Burgers equation. The averaging principle for such equation is studied.
The influence of electrode types to the visually induced gamma oscillations in mouse primary visual cortex
Authors: Deng Haoran , Cui Yan , Liu Haolun , Zhang Guizhi , Chai Xiaoqian , Yang Xiaotong , Gong Qiang , Yu Shuang , Guo Daqing , Xia Yang , Yao Dezhong , Chen Ke
Published: May 2024

The local field potential (LFP) is an extracellular electrical signal associated with neural ensemble input and dendritic signaling. Previous studies have linked gamma band oscillations of the LFP in cortical circuits to sensory stimuli encoding, attention, memory, and perception. Inconsistent results regarding gamma tuning for visual features were reported, but it remains unclear whether these discrepancies are due to variations in electrode properties. Specifically, the surface area and impedance of the electrode are important characteristics in LFP recording. To comprehensively address these issues, we conducted an electrophysiological study in the V1 region of lightly anesthetized mice using two types of electrodes: one with higher impedance (1 MΩ) and a sharp tip (10 μm), while the other had lower impedance (100 KΩ) but a thicker tip (200 μm). Our findings demonstrate that gamma oscillations acquired by sharp-tip electrodes were significantly stronger than those obtained from thick-tip electrodes. Regarding size tuning, most gamma power exhibited surround suppression at larger gratings when recorded from sharp-tip electrodes. However, the majority showed enhanced gamma power at larger gratings when recorded from thick-tip electrodes. Therefore, our study suggests that microelectrode parameters play a significant role in accurately recording gamma oscillations and responsive tuning to sensory stimuli.
Foreign State Immunity Law of China: A Preliminary Appraisal
Authors: Shi Xinxiang
Published: May 2024

With the adoption of the Foreign State Immunity Law in September 2023, China officially switches from absolute State immunity to restrictive State immunity. This paper analyses selected provisions of the new law which are likely to cause problems in practice. In addition, the paper also reflects upon the marginal position of Chinese courts in immunity cases in the past and the implication of the new law under the principle of “One Country, Two Systems”.
Features and outcomes of focal intimal disruption in acute type B intramural haematoma
Authors: Jung Joon Chul , Chang Hyoung Woo , Lee Jae Hang , Park Kay-Hyun
Published: May 2024

OBJECTIVES

A focal intimal disruption (FID) is a risk factor for adverse aorta-related events in patients with acute type B intramural haematoma. This study evaluated the impact of FIDs on overall survival with a selective intervention strategy for large or growing FIDs. Additionally, this study evaluated the risk factors associated with the growth of FIDs.

METHODS

This retrospective study included all consecutive patients admitted for acute type B intramural haematomas between November 2004 and April 2021. The primary outcome was overall survival. The secondary outcome was the cumulative incidence of composite aortic events and the growth of FIDs. The latter was calculated on centreline-reconstructed computed tomography images.

RESULTS

A total of 105 patients were included. A total of 106 FIDs were identified in 73 patients (73/105, 69.5%). The 1- and 5-year cumulative incidence rates of composite aortic events were 36.2% and 39.2%, respectively. The 1- and 5-year overall survival was 93.3% and 81.5%, respectively. Initial maximal aortic diameter and large FIDs during acute phase were significant risk factors for composite aortic events, but not risk factors for overall survival. The early appearance interval of an FID was a significant risk factor for growth of an FID.

CONCLUSIONS

With a selective intervention strategy for large or growing FIDs, the presence of large FIDs during the acute phase does not affect overall survival. The early appearance interval was associated with the growth of FIDs.
The reflective measurement model of adherence to non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs) in accordance with normalization process theory (NPT) in coherent and convenient social subgroups: PLS-SEM analysis
Authors: Pletikosa Pavic Magda , Pranic Shelly Melissa , Mastelic Tonci , Kljucevic Zeljko , Gotovac Majda , Savicevic Anamarija Jurcev , Kozina Tonci , Kozina Slavica
Published: May 2024

Background

Non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs) decrease COVID-19 transmission. Reliability and validity of adherence to NPIs in accordance with normalization process theory (NPT) in coherent and convenient social subgroups using reflective measurement model assessment has not been evaluated.

Methods

In February 2021, a sample of medical students and people with substance use disorders in treatment as coherent (based on continuous probability distribution) vs. convenient groups (based on convenience, not equal probability) composed of travellers and COVID-19 suspected persons from Split-Dalmatia County (SDC) (n = 656) in the Mediterranean completed self-administered surveys. Partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) was used to measure reflective model assessment of adherence to NPIs according to NPT.

Results

PLS-SEM reflective model assessment provided two-group specific factors in inverse relationships which determined adherence to NPIs with excellent goodness-of-fit [χ2 = 1.292, df = 1; P = 0.297, CFI = 1, TLI = 0.997, RMSEA = 0.011 (90% CI 0–0.105), RMSEA P = 0.604, SRMR = 0.008, Hoelter CN (α = 0.05) = 2322.757]. Significant negative factors covariance estimate (−0.716) revealed an inverse relationship between first (adherence to NPIs and internal locus of control (LoC) (0.640)) and second factor; young adulthood age (≤25) and highest level of education (1362). As the first factor increased the second tended to decrease. LoC is expected potential mechanism by which sex (MLsex = −0.017, SE = 0.007, P < 0.016) and belonging to coherent subgroups (MLgroup = −0.008, SE = 0.003, P = 0.015) can produce indirect effect of adherence to NPIs.

Conclusions

Coherent subgroups had a more pronounced tendency toward integration of NPIs in everyday life. Group factors that facilitate the normalization were higher educated younger adults with a tendency toward external LoC.
Spectral decomposition of ground motions in New Zealand using the generalized inversion technique
Authors: Zhu Chuanbin , Bora Sanjay , Bradley Brendon A , Bindi Dino
Published: May 2024

To gain new insights into ground-motion phenomena in New Zealand (NZ), we apply the non-parametric generalized inversion technique (GIT) in the Fourier domain to isolate the systematic source, path, and site effects from 20 813 seismograms, recorded by 693 sensors at 439 unique locations, from 1200 shallow crustal events (Mw > 3) during the period 2000–2021. From the inverted source spectra, we derive Brune's stress parameter, ∆σ, which is found to follow a lognormal distribution with a log10 standard deviation of 0.36 or equivalently 0.83 in natural log unit. ∆σ slightly increases with focal depth and is practically independent of earthquake size (i.e. self-similar), but displays a statistically significant spatial clustering. Based on the inverted attenuation, a trilinear geometric-spreading function, and a distance-dependent quality-factor Q(f) model are found to well describe the attenuation in NZ; though a single $Q( f )$ model is also obtained for the whole distance range: $Q( f ) = 149.1{f}^{0.62}$. Using the site response decomposed from GIT, we find that the soil classification scheme specified in NZ seismic code, NZS1170.5, has a limited capability in discerning the site-specific frequency-dependent amplification functions in comparison to a non-parametric clustering with the same number of discrete classes. The potential use of the spatial variation in source parameters from this GIT analysis in region-specific physics-based simulations is discussed.
Twelve more bulky genomes in the Polyneoptera: characterizing the Order Embioptera
Authors: Kelly Erin Taylor , Whittall Justen B , Poolprasert Pisit , Edgerly Janice S
Published: May 2024

Polyneopteran insects have relatively large genomes compared to holometabolous insects, which appear constrained by a threshold of 2 pg/1C DNA. This threshold may be due to costly complex development and higher energy demands. Genome sizes (GSs) are particularly bulky in various species of Orthoptera, reaching sizes up to 18.64 pg/1C DNA, however, recent analyses comparing insect GSs neglected the order Embioptera (webspinners). Our access to fresh specimens of 12 species from 6 of the 13 named taxonomic families provided a chance to determine if embiopterans also support bulky genomes. Flow cytometry results revealed that embiopteran GSs ranged from 2.41 to 7.56 pg/1C, similar to other polyneopterans. Based on previous studies reporting correlations with GS, we tested for correlations between GS and body length using independent contrasts. The ancestral state of the root was estimated at 4.57 pg/1C. A positive relationship was detected whereby larger-bodied webspinners displayed larger genomes, with female Antipaluria urichi (Saussure) (Clothodidae) having the largest genome at 7.56 pg/1C. This GS is approximately 3 times larger than the previously reported embiopteran GS of pg = 2.66 for a male Oligotoma saundersii (Westwood) (Oligotomidae). GS showed no consistent patterns of phylogenetic signal for Embioptera. The underlying causes for large genomes are briefly reviewed.
Accumulation of lipid droplets induced by Listeria monocytogenes in macrophages: implications for survival and evasion of innate immunity
Authors: Pereira-Dutra Filipe S , Souza Ellen K , Souza Tamyris S , Goltara-Gomes Taynná C , Ferraro-Moreira Felipe , Palhinha Lohanna , Cunha-Fernandes Tamires , Rajão Matheus A , Silva Adriana R , Bozza Patrícia T
Published: May 2024

Listeriosis, caused by Listeria monocytogenes (L.m.), poses a significant public health concern as one of the most severe foodborne diseases. The pathogenesis of L.m. involves critical steps such as phagosome rupture and escape upon internalization. Throughout infection, L.m. influences various host processes, including lipid metabolism pathways, yet the role of lipid droplets (LDs) remains unclear. Here, we reported a rapid, time-dependent increase in LD formation in macrophages induced by L.m. LD biogenesis was found to be dependent on L.m. viability and virulence genes, particularly on the activity of the pore-forming protein listeriolysin O (LLO). The prevention of LD formation by inhibiting diacylglycerol O-acyltransferase 1 (DGAT1) and cytosolic phospholipase A2 (cPLA2) significantly reduced intracellular bacterial survival, impaired prostaglandin E2 synthesis, and decreased interleukin-10 production. Additionally, inhibiting LD formation led to increased levels of tumor necrosis factor α and interferon β. Collectively, our data suggest a role for LDs in promoting L.m. cell survival and evasion within macrophages.
Transgenerational plasticity in salinity tolerance of rice: unraveling non-genetic phenotypic modifications and environmental influences
Authors: Aycan Murat , Nahar Lutfun , Baslam Marouane , Mitsui Toshiaki
Published: May 2024

Transgenerational plasticity in plants enables rapid adaptation to environmental changes, allowing organisms and their offspring to adapt to the environment without altering their underlying DNA. In this study, we investigated the transgenerational plasticity in salinity tolerance of rice plants using a reciprocal transplant experimental strategy. Our aim was to assess whether non-genetic environment-induced phenotypic modifications and transgenerational salinity affect the salinity tolerance of progeny while excluding nuclear genomic factors for two generations. Using salt-tolerant and salt-sensitive rice genotypes, we observed that the parentally salt-stressed salt-sensitive genotype displayed greater growth performance, photosynthetic activity, yield performance, and transcriptional responses than the parentally non-stressed salt-sensitive plants under salt stress conditions. Surprisingly, salt stress-exposed salt-tolerant progeny did not exhibit as much salinity tolerance as salt stress-exposed salt-sensitive progeny under salt stress. Our findings indicate that the phenotypes of offspring plants differed based on the environment experienced by their ancestors, resulting in heritable transgenerational phenotypic modifications in salt-sensitive genotypes via maternal effects. These results elucidated the mechanisms underlying transgenerational plasticity in salinity tolerance, providing valuable insights into how plants respond to changing environmental conditions.
Exercise-Induced Pulmonary Hemorrhage in a Non-Athletic Child: Implications for Military Recruits
Authors: Oliver Amanda , Boster Joshua , Warren Whittney , Welsh Sebastian
Published: May 2024

Hemoptysis is a rare presenting symptom in pediatric and young adult patients with a highly variable outcome ranging from an isolated mild occurrence to severe illness and death. Exercise-induced pulmonary hemorrhage (EIPH) has several reports in adult literature but has not previously been reported in pediatric patients. A 12-year-old female with a history of trisomy X (47, XXX), obesity, depression, anxiety, and obstructive sleep apnea presented to the pediatric pulmonology clinic after several episodes of hemoptysis. Spirometry, imaging, and laboratory evaluation for autoimmune vasculitides and other causes associated with pediatric hemoptysis did not reveal an etiology for the hemoptysis. A combined bronchoscopy with pediatric and adult providers revealed no airway lesions or sources of bleeding. EIPH is a diagnosis of exclusion. This patient was diagnosed with EIPH and had spontaneous resolution with improved fitness. Many military training and service activities are similar to those reported with EIPH. Trainees with various levels of aerobic fitness are at risk of developing EIPH. The hemoptysis evaluation is important for military providers given the range of severity in presentations, even though it is a rare occurrence. In addition to a novel presentation of EIPH, this case demonstrates the value of collaboration between pediatric and adult specialists in the Military Health System (MHS). Military care providers should be aware of this rare phenomenon in service members and trainees who are at risk during maximal aerobic effort.
The effect of reionization on direct measurements of the mean free path
Authors: Roth Joshua T , D’Aloisio Anson , Cain Christopher , Wilson Bayu , Zhu Yongda , Becker George D
Published: May 2024

Recent measurements of the ionizing photon mean free path (MFP) based on composite quasar spectra may point to reionization ending at z < 6. These measurements are challenging because they rely on assumptions about the proximity zones of the quasars. For example, some quasars might have been close to neutral patches where reionization was still ongoing (‘neutral islands’), and it is unclear how they would affect the measurements. We address this question with mock MFP measurements from radiative transfer simulations. We find that, even in the presence of neutral islands, our mock MFP measurements agree to within $30~{{\ \rm per\ cent}}$ with the true spatially averaged MFP in our simulations, which includes opacity from both the ionized medium and the islands. The inferred MFP is sensitive at the $\lt ~50~{{\ \rm per\ cent}}$ level to assumptions about quasar environments and lifetimes for realistic models. We demonstrate that future analyses with improved data may require explicitly modelling the effects of neutral islands on the composite spectra, and we outline a method for doing this. Lastly, we quantify the effects of neutral islands on Lyman-series transmission, which has been modelled with optically thin simulations in previous MFP analyses. Neutral islands can suppress transmission at λrest < 912 Å significantly, up to a factor of 2 for zqso = 6 in a plausible reionization scenario, owing to absorption by many closely spaced lines as quasar light redshifts into resonance. However, the suppression is almost entirely degenerate with the spectrum normalization and thus does not significantly bias the inferred MFP.
CURLING – I. The influence of point-like image approximation on the outcomes of cluster strong lens modelling
Authors: Xie Yushan , Shan Huanyuan , Li Nan , Li Ran , Jullo Eric , Su Chen , Cao Xiaoyue , Kneib Jean-Paul , Acebron Ana , He Mengfan , Yao Ji , Wang Chunxiang , Li Jiadong , Li Yin
Published: May 2024

Cluster-scale strong lensing is a powerful tool for exploring the properties of dark matter and constraining cosmological models. However, due to the complex parameter space, pixelized strong lens modelling in galaxy clusters is computationally expensive, leading to the point-source approximation of strongly lensed extended images, potentially introducing systematic biases. Herein, as the first paper of the ClUsteR strong Lens modelIng for the Next-Generation observations (CURLING) program, we use lensing ray-tracing simulations to quantify the biases and uncertainties arising from the point-like image approximation for JWST-like observations. Our results indicate that the approximation works well for reconstructing the total cluster mass distribution, but can bias the magnification measurements near critical curves and the constraints on the cosmological parameters, the total matter density of the universe Ωm, and dark energy equation of state parameter w. To mitigate the biases, we propose incorporating the extended surface brightness distribution of lensed sources into the modelling. This approach reduces the bias in magnification from 46.2 per cent to 0.09 per cent for μ ∼ 1000. Furthermore, the median values of cosmological parameters align more closely with the fiducial model. In addition to the improved accuracy, we also demonstrate that the constraining power can be substantially enhanced. In conclusion, it is necessary to model cluster-scale strong lenses with pixelized multiple images, especially for estimating the intrinsic luminosity of highly magnified sources and accurate cosmography in the era of high-precision observations.
Local primordial non-Gaussianity from the large-scale clustering of photometric DESI luminous red galaxies
Authors: Rezaie Mehdi , Ross Ashley J , Seo Hee-Jong , Kong Hui , Porredon Anna , Samushia Lado , Chaussidon Edmond , Krolewski Alex , de Mattia Arnaud , Beutler Florian , Aguilar Jessica Nicole , Ahlen Steven , Alam Shadab , Avila Santiago , Bahr-Kalus Benedict , Bermejo-Climent Jose , Brooks David , Claybaugh Todd , Cole Shaun , Dawson Kyle , de la Macorra Axel , Doel Peter , Font-Ribera Andreu , Forero-Romero Jaime E , Gontcho Satya Gontcho A , Guy Julien , Honscheid Klaus , Huterer Dragan , Kisner Theodore , Landriau Martin , Levi Michael , Manera Marc , Meisner Aaron , Miquel Ramon , Mueller Eva-Maria , Myers Adam , Newman Jeffrey A , Nie Jundan , Palanque-Delabrouille Nathalie , Percival Will , Poppett Claire , Rossi Graziano , Sanchez Eusebio , Schubnell Michael , Tarlé Gregory , Weaver Benjamin Alan , Yèche Christophe , Zhou Zhimin , Zou Hu
Published: May 2024

We use angular clustering of luminous red galaxies from the Dark Energy Spectroscopic Instrument (DESI) imaging surveys to constrain the local primordial non-Gaussianity parameter fNL. Our sample comprises over 12 million targets, covering 14 000 deg2 of the sky, with redshifts in the range 0.2 < z < 1.35. We identify Galactic extinction, survey depth, and astronomical seeing as the primary sources of systematic error, and employ linear regression and artificial neural networks to alleviate non-cosmological excess clustering on large scales. Our methods are tested against simulations with and without fNL and systematics, showing superior performance of the neural network treatment. The neural network with a set of nine imaging property maps passes our systematic null test criteria, and is chosen as the fiducial treatment. Assuming the universality relation, we find $f_{\rm NL} = 34^{+24(+50)}_{-44(-73)}$ at 68 per cent (95 per cent) confidence. We apply a series of robustness tests (e.g. cuts on imaging, declination, or scales used) that show consistency in the obtained constraints. We study how the regression method biases the measured angular power spectrum and degrades the fNL constraining power. The use of the nine maps more than doubles the uncertainty compared to using only the three primary maps in the regression. Our results thus motivate the development of more efficient methods that avoid overcorrection, protect large-scale clustering information, and preserve constraining power. Additionally, our results encourage further studies of fNL with DESI spectroscopic samples, where the inclusion of 3D clustering modes should help separate imaging systematics and lessen the degradation in the fNL uncertainty.
Transcriptional landscape and dynamics involved in sugar and acid accumulation during apple fruit development
Authors: Li Baiyun , Zhu Lingcheng , Yang Nanxiang , Qu Shengtao , Cao Wenjing , Ma Wenfang , Wei Xiaoyu , Ma Baiquan , Ma Fengwang , Fu Aigen , Li Mingjun
Published: May 2024

In fleshy fruit, sugars and acids are central components of fruit flavor and quality. To date, the mechanisms underlying transcriptional regulation of sugar and acid during fruit development remain largely unknown. Here, we combined ATAC-seq with RNA-seq to investigate the genome-wide chromatin accessibility and to identify putative transcription factors related to sugar and acid accumulation during apple (Malus domestica) fruit development. By integrating the differentially accessible regions and differentially expressed genes, we generated a global data set of promoter–accessibility and expression-increased genes. Using this strategy, we constructed a transcriptional regulatory network enabling screening for key transcription factors and target genes involved in sugar and acid accumulation. Among these transcription factors, 5 fruit-specific DNA binding with one finger genes were selected to confirm their regulatory effects, and our results showed that they could affect sugar or acid concentration by regulating the expression of sugar or acid metabolism-related genes in apple fruits. Our transcriptional regulatory network provides a suitable platform to identify candidate genes that control sugar and acid accumulation. Meanwhile, our data set will aid in analyzing other characteristics of apple fruit that have not been illuminated previously. Overall, these findings support a better understanding of the regulatory dynamics during apple fruit development and lay a foundation for quality improvement of apple.
From pole to pole, life-long research of sleep in extreme environments
Authors: Buguet Alain G C
Published: May 2024

In November 1965, Michel Jouvet accepted me into his laboratory in Lyon as a medical student at a time when sleep research was an adventure. After 4 years of investigations in cats, I obtained my medical doctorate. Being a military physician, I was posted to Antarctica for wintering over and was initiated by Jean Rivolier into the psychology of small isolated human groups. I recorded 180 polysomnographic (PSG) nights in eight of my companions. This was my first contribution to research on human sleep under extreme environments and conditions. I then entered René Hénane’s military thermophysiology laboratory, where I analyzed thermal exchanges during human sleep in the heat. Back to the cold, I spent 2 years in Canada and analyzed sleep during the Arctic winter under the direction of Manny W. Radomski, who headed the Defense and Civil Institute of Environmental Medicine and judged my PhD dissertation along with my first two mentors. Throughout my career, I worked in collaboration with Manny Radomski under the auspices of the Franco-Canadian Accord for Defence Research. We studied sleep and exercise, sleep deprivation, and recovery with and without chemical help. He also gave me support during several investigations in Africa. There, I studied normal sleep under various tropical climates (warm and dry in Niger, warm and humid in Côte d’Ivoire and Congo, temperate mid-mountain in Angola). I determined that human African trypanosomiasis, the ravaging sleeping sickness or tsetse disease, is not a hypersomnia, but a disorder of circadian rhythms, notably in the sleep–wake cycle.
SecYEG-mediated translocation in a model synthetic cell
Authors: Schoenmakers Ludo L J , den Uijl Max J , Postma Jelle L , van den Akker Tim A P , Huck Wilhelm T S , Driessen Arnold J M
Published: May 2024

Giant unilamellar vesicles (GUVs) provide a powerful model compartment for synthetic cells. However, a key challenge is the incorporation of membrane proteins that allow for transport, energy transduction, compartment growth and division. Here, we have successfully incorporated the membrane protein complex SecYEG—the key bacterial translocase that is essential for the incorporation of newly synthesized membrane proteins—in GUVs. Our method consists of fusion of small unilamellar vesicles containing reconstituted SecYEG into GUVs, thereby forming SecGUVs. These are suitable for large-scale experiments while maintaining a high protein:lipid ratio. We demonstrate that incorporation of SecYEG into GUVs does not inhibit its translocation efficiency. Robust membrane protein functionalized proteo-GUVs are promising and flexible compartments for use in the formation and growth of synthetic cells.
The Society of Behavioral Medicine urges passage of the PLANT (Peas, Legumes, And Nuts Today) Act
Authors: Bell Brooke M , Battaglia Kyra , Wasim Natasha , Marquez Alejandra S , Tichenor Blackstone Nicole
Published: May 2024

Current US diets negatively impact human health and the environment, while shifting toward increased intake of plant-based foods could mitigate these issues. Current food policies exacerbate these problems, necessitating a reevaluation and the implementation of new policies. The Society of Behavioral Medicine urges legislators to support the PLANT Act (H.R.5023), which would enhance production, research, and development of plant-based foods and address both health and environmental concerns.
A Practical Dosing Algorithm for Deep Neuromuscular Blockade during Total Intravenous Anesthesia: ROCURITHM
Authors: Albers-Warlé Kim I. , Reijnders-Boerboom Gabby T. J. A. , Bijkerk Veerle , Torensma Bart , Panhuizen Ivo F. , Snoeck Marc M. J. , Fuchs-Buder Thomas , Keijzer Christiaan , Dahan Albert , Warlé Michiel C.
Published: May 2024

Background

The number of trials investigating the effects of deep neuromuscular blockade (NMB) on surgical conditions and patient outcomes is steadily increasing. Consensus on which surgical procedures benefit from deep NMB (a posttetanic count [PTC] of 1 to 2) and how to implement it has not been reached. The European Society of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care does not advise routine application but recommends use of deep NMB to improve surgical conditions on indication. This study investigates the optimal dosing strategy to reach and maintain adequate deep NMB during total intravenous anesthesia.

Methods

Data from three trials investigating deep NMB during laparoscopic surgery with total intravenous anesthesia (n = 424) were pooled to analyze the required rocuronium dose, when to start continuous infusion, and how to adjust. The resulting algorithm was validated (n = 32) and compared to the success rate in ongoing studies in which the algorithm was not used (n = 180).

Results

The mean rocuronium dose based on actual bodyweight for PTC 1 to 2 was (mean ± SD) 1.0 ± 0.27 mg · kg−1 ·h−1 in the trials, in which mean duration of surgery was 116 min. An induction dose of 0.6 mg ·kg−1 led to a PTC of 1 to 5 in a quarter of patients after a mean of 11 min. The remaining patients were equally divided over too shallow (additional bolus and direct start of continuous infusion) or too deep; a 15-min wait after PTC of 0 for return of PTC to 1 or higher. Using the proposed algorithm, a mean 76% of all 5-min measurements throughout surgery were on target PTC 1 to 2 in the validation cohort. The algorithm performed significantly better than anesthesiology residents without the algorithm, even after a learning curve from 0 to 20 patients (42% on target, P ≤ 0.001, Cohen’s d = 1.4 [95% CI, 0.9 to 1.8]) to 81 to 100 patients (61% on target, P ≤ 0.05, Cohen’s d = 0.7 [95% CI, 0.1 to 1.2]).

Conclusions

This study proposes a dosing algorithm for deep NMB with rocuronium in patients receiving total intravenous anesthesia.

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Monitoring advanced gastrointestinal stromal tumor with circulating tumor DNA
Authors: Gómez-Peregrina David , Cicala Carlo Maria , Serrano César
Published: May 2024

Purpose of review

This review explores the role of circulating tumor (ct)DNA as a biomarker for clinical decision-making and monitoring purposes in metastatic gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) patients. We discuss key insights from recent clinical trials and anticipate the future perspectives of ctDNA profiling within the clinical landscape of GIST.

Recent findings

The identification and molecular characterization of KIT/platelet-derived growth factor receptor alpha (PDGFRA) mutations from ctDNA in metastatic GIST is feasible and reliable. Such identification through ctDNA serves as a predictor of clinical outcomes to tyrosine-kinase inhibitors (TKIs) in metastatic patients. Additionally, conjoined ctDNA analysis from clinical trials reveal the evolving mutational landscapes and increase in intratumoral heterogeneity across treatment lines. Together, this data positions ctDNA determination as a valuable tool for monitoring disease progression and guiding therapy in metastatic patients. These collective efforts culminated in the initiation of a ctDNA-based randomized clinical trial in GIST, marking a significant milestone in integrating ctDNA testing into the clinical care of GIST patients.

The dynamic field of ctDNA technologies is rapidly evolving and holds significant promise for research. Several trials have successfully validated the clinical utility of ctDNA in metastatic GIST, laying the foundations for its prospective integration into the routine clinical management of GIST patients.
State of the art and upcoming trends in claudin-directed therapies in gastrointestinal malignancies
Authors: Rogers Jane E. , Ajani Jaffer A.
Published: May 2024

Purpose of review

Claudins, components of tight cell junctions in epithelial and endothelial cells, have emerged as a therapeutic target in gastrointestinal (GI) malignancies, particularly claudin 18.2 (CLDN18.2).

Recent findings

Zolbetuximab, a chimeric anti-CLDN18.2 monoclonal antibody (mAb), is currently under FDA review and may emerge as the first claudin targeted therapy approved. Phase 3 trials show that zolbetuximab in combination with front-line fluoropyrimidine plus oxaliplatin improves survival in advanced CLDN18.2 positive (≥75% of tumor cells) gastric adenocarcinoma (GAC) patients. Many other therapies (mAbs; CART; bispecific; ADCs) are under investigation.

CLDN18.2 will be an important target in GAC. Early understanding of how to target CLDN18.2 based on the level of expression (high, moderate, low) will be the key to success in this area. Studying these as separate entities should be considered. Resistance patterns, loss of CLDN18.2 expression, role in the refractory setting, and if any role in localized disease are questions that remain. Other targets for claudin that target claudin six and four are under investigation. Their role in GI malignancies will soon be further clarified.
Active surveillance and emerging medical treatment options for desmoid: when and for whom?
Authors: Bonvalot Sylvie , Miah Aisha , Kasper Bernd
Published: May 2024

Purpose of review

This article discusses the evolving approaches to desmoid tumors management, shedding light on recent developments.

Recent findings

Active surveillance has become the primary approach for managing primary peripheral desmoid tumors. This strategy was initially based on evidence from retrospective studies. Roughly 50% of cases managed with active surveillance show spontaneous stabilization or regression. Recent prospective trials conducted in Italy, The Netherlands, and France (2022–2023) confirm the efficacy of active surveillance, revealing 3-year progression-free survival rates ranging from 53.4 to 58%. For the patients under active surveillance, decisions regarding treatment are based on significant tumor growth or progressive symptoms. Moreover, three contemporary randomized trials investigated medical treatments for progressive or recurrent desmoid tumors. Sorafenib, pazopanib, and nirogacestat demonstrated clinical activity, as evidenced by favorable progression-free survival and objective response rates.

Active surveillance has solidified its position as the primary management approach for desmoid tumors, validated by three robust prospective studies. Three recent randomized trials explored medical treatment for progressive or recurrent desmoid tumors, revealing promising clinical activities.
Comparison of Partial Upper Sternotomy Versus Median Sternotomy for Total Arch Replacement in Patients With Type A Aortic Dissection
Authors: Li Dong , Chen Lei , Wu Yang , Jiang Wei , Ren Chonglei , Xiao Cangsong
Published: May 2024

Objective:

Comparative studies of median sternotomy and partial upper sternotomy in total arch replacement for type A aortic dissection are rare, and the safety and benefits of partial upper sternotomy need further evaluation. This study aimed to explore the effectiveness and prognosis of partial upper sternotomy in total arch replacement among patients with type A aortic dissection.

Methods:

This is a retrospective study of patients who underwent total arch replacement for type A aortic dissection at the First Medical Center of Chinese People’s Liberation Army General Hospital between January 2016 and December 2019. They were grouped into the median sternotomy and partial upper sternotomy groups according to the different treatment methodologies. The intra-operative and prognostic indicators were compared between both groups.

Results:

Forty-nine patients were included: 31 in the median sternotomy group and 18 in the partial upper sternotomy group. The partial upper sternotomy group had a shorter incision ((9.0 ± 0.8) cm vs. (25.5 ± 1.3) cm, P = 0.02) and smaller postoperative total drainage volume (885 mL vs. 1,820 mL, P = 0.03) than the median sternotomy group. The differences between the 2 groups with respect to other intra-operative indicators such as operation duration, cardiopulmonary bypass duration, aortic occlusion duration, hypothermic circulatory arrest duration, and intra-operative blood loss, and prognostic indicators such as red blood cell infusion, ventilator aid duration, cardiac intensive care unit stay, postoperative hospital stay, and postoperative complications were not significantly different (all P > 0.05).

Conclusions:

The utilization of partial upper sternotomy in patients with type A aortic dissection resulted in a smaller incision and more aesthetically pleasing scar, along with reduced drainage volume compared to median sternotomy.