bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficacy and Safety of Mirvetuximab Soravtansine in Patients With Platinum-Resistant Ovarian Cancer With High Folate Receptor Alpha Expression: Results From the SORAYA Study
Authors: Matulonis Ursula A. , Lorusso Domenica , Oaknin Ana , Pignata Sandro , Dean Andrew , Denys Hannelore , Colombo Nicoletta , Van Gorp Toon , Konner Jason A. , Marin Margarita Romeo , Harter Philipp , Murphy Conleth G. , Wang Jiuzhou , Noble Elizabeth , Esteves Brooke , Method Michael , Coleman Robert L.
Published: January 2023

PURPOSE

Single-agent chemotherapies have limited activity and considerable toxicity in patients with platinum-resistant epithelial ovarian cancer (PROC). Mirvetuximab soravtansine (MIRV) is an antibody-drug conjugate targeting folate receptor α (FRα). SORAYA is a single-arm, phase II study evaluating efficacy and safety of MIRV in patients with PROC.

METHODS

SORAYA enrolled FRα-high patients with PROC who had received one to three prior therapies, including required bevacizumab. The primary end point was confirmed objective response rate (ORR) by investigator; duration of response was the key secondary end point.

RESULTS

One hundred six patients were enrolled; 105 were evaluable for efficacy. All patients had received prior bevacizumab, 51% had three prior lines of therapy, and 48% received a prior poly ADP-ribose polymerase inhibitor. Median follow-up was 13.4 months. ORR was 32.4% (95% CI, 23.6 to 42.2), including five complete and 29 partial responses. The median duration of response was 6.9 months (95% CI, 5.6 to 9.7). In patients with one to two priors, the ORR by investigator was 35.3% (95% CI, 22.4 to 49.9) and in patients with three priors was 30.2% (95% CI, 18.3 to 44.3). The ORR by investigator was 38.0% (95% CI, 24.7 to 52.8) in patients with prior poly ADP-ribose polymerase inhibitor exposure and 27.5% (95% CI, 15.9 to 41.7) in those without. The most common treatment-related adverse events (all grade and grade 3-4) were blurred vision (41% and 6%), keratopathy (29% and 9%), and nausea (29% and 0%). Treatment-related adverse events led to dose delays, reductions, and discontinuations in 33%, 20%, and 9% of patients, respectively.

CONCLUSION

MIRV demonstrated consistent clinically meaningful antitumor activity and favorable tolerability and safety in patients with FRα-high PROC who had received up to three prior therapies, including bevacizumab, representing an important advance for this biomarker-selected population.
The Changing Epidemiology of Adrenal Insufficiency: Iatrogenic Factors Predominate
Authors: Rushworth R Louise , Torpy David J
Published: January 2023

Context

Adrenal insufficiency (AI)-related morbidity persists despite efforts to minimize its effect. Reasons for this are unknown and warrant examination.

Objective

This work aimed to investigate trends in AI hospitalizations and glucocorticoid (GC) replacement therapy use.

Methods

Data on hospitalizations for a principal diagnosis of AI and prescriptions for short-acting GCs between 2000 and 2019 were extracted from national repositories. Age-standardized admission and prescription rates were calculated using census data. Rates were compared over time overall and according to age, sex, and disease subtype.

Results

AI admissions increased by 62.0%, from 36.78/million to 59.59/million (trend P < .0001). Adrenal crisis (AC) admissions also increased, by 90.1% (from 10.73/million to 20.40/million; trend, P < .00001). These increases were more pronounced in the second decade. Prescriptions for short-acting GCs also increased (by 67.2%, from 2198.36/million in 2000/2001 to 3676.00/million in 2017/2018). Females had higher average admission rates and a greater increase in admission rates than males. Increased AI admissions were found in all age groups among females but only in men aged 70+ yrs. Secondary AI (SAI) admission rates increased by 91.7%, whereas admission rates for primary AI (PAI) remained unchanged.

Conclusion

The prevalence of AI and hospitalizations for this disorder (including ACs) have increased since 2000, with a greater increase occurring after 2010. Admission rates for SAI increased but PAI admissions remained stable. Possible causes include immunotherapies for malignancy, increased cranial imaging detecting pituitary tumors and their subsequent treatment, and increased use of low-dose, short-acting GC-replacement therapy.
Paediatric Society and Hyperinsulinism Charity National Surveys on CGM Access for Patients With Recurrent Hypoglycaemia
Authors: Ng Sze May , Dearman Sarah , Fisher Mark , Mushtaq Talat , Randell Tabitha
Published: January 2023

Context

Recurrent hypoglycemia can result in significant neurological impairments in children and continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) technology has been shown to reduce recurrent hypoglycemia in conditions such as type 1 diabetes. In the United Kingdom, CGM devices are currently only recommended by the National Institute of Clinical Excellence (NICE) for patients with diabetes and not for other diagnoses.

Objective

To examine access to CGM technology for children and young people with recurrent hypoglycemia in the United Kingdom.

Methods

In 2021, the British Society of Paediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes (BSPED) conducted a national health professional survey in England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland looking at CGM access to funding for children and young people with recurrent hypoglycemia, without the diagnosis of diabetes. The UK Children's Hyperinsulinism Charity (UK CHC) also conducted a national patient survey.

Results

Responses from BSPED were received from 55 units while the UK CHC received 69 responses from individual families, the largest response to a survey carried out by the charity. The results of the BSPED and UK CHC surveys found that funding streams for CGM were highly variable. Only 29% were able to access CGM for recurrent hypoglycemia and from these, 65% were self-funding CGM. Quality of life benefits were evident from the UK CHC survey on the utility of CGM in reducing worry, improving sleep, lessening the burden of frequently finger-pricking and reducing out-of-hours appointments as a result of hypoglycemia. Patient-reported utilization rates of blood glucose test strips per week were significantly reduced.

Conclusion

BSPED and UK CHC national surveys support a call and a consideration for CGM access to be widened to patients who suffer from recurrent hypoglycemia such as those with hyperinsulinism or metabolic conditions. The prevention of recurrent hypoglycemia and improving quality of life for patients and carers remain a cornerstone management for people who suffer from frequent hypoglycemia. CGM education is critical to support its use and understand its limitations. Further research is warranted to determine the safety and efficacy of CGM in detection and reduction of hypoglycemic events, impact of hospital stay, and long-term neurological outcomes in those who suffer from recurrent hypoglceamia.
Light-sheet microscopy reveals dorsoventral asymmetric membrane dynamics ofAmoeba proteusduring pressure-driven locomotion
Authors: Taniguchi Atsushi , Nishigami Yukinori , Kajiura-Kobayashi Hiroko , Takao Daisuke , Tamaoki Daisuke , Nakagaki Toshiyuki , Nonaka Shigenori , Sonobe Seiji
Published: January 2023

Amoebae are found all around the world and play an essential role in the carbon cycle in the environment. Therefore, the behavior of amoebae is a crucial factor when considering the global environment. Amoebae change their distribution through amoeboid locomotion, which are classified into several modes. In the pressure-driven mode, intracellular hydrostatic pressure generated by the contraction of cellular cortex actomyosin causes the pseudopod to extend. During amoeboid locomotion, the cellular surface exhibits dynamic deformation. Therefore, to understand the mechanism of amoeboid locomotion, it is important to characterize cellular membrane dynamics. Here, to clarify membrane dynamics during pressure-driven amoeboid locomotion, we developed a polkadot membrane staining method and performed light-sheet microscopy in Amoeba proteus, which exhibits typical pressure-driven amoeboid locomotion. It was observed that the whole cell membrane moved in the direction of movement, and the dorsal cell membrane in the posterior part of the cell moved more slowly than the other membrane. In addition, membrane complexity varied depending on the focused characteristic size of the membrane structure, and in general, the dorsal side was more complex than the ventral side. In summary, the membrane dynamics of Amoeba proteus during pressure-driven locomotion are asymmetric between the dorsal and ventral sides.

This article has an associated interview with the co-first authors of the paper.
Single-cell RNA-based phenotyping reveals a pivotal role of thyroid hormone receptor alpha for hypothalamic development
Authors: Sreenivasan Varun K. A. , Dore Riccardo , Resch Julia , Maier Julia , Dietrich Carola , Henck Jana , Balachandran Saranya , Mittag Jens , Spielmann Malte
Published: January 2023

Thyroid hormone and its receptor TRα1 play an important role in brain development. Several animal models have been used to investigate this function, including mice heterozygous for the TRα1R384C mutation, which confers receptor-mediated hypothyroidism. These mice display abnormalities in several autonomic functions, which was partially attributed to a developmental defect in hypothalamic parvalbumin neurons. However, whether other cell types in the hypothalamus are similarly affected remains unknown. Here, we used single-nucleus RNA sequencing to obtain an unbiased view on the importance of TRα1 for hypothalamic development and cellular diversity. Our data show that defective TRα1 signaling has surprisingly little effect on the development of hypothalamic neuronal populations, but it heavily affects hypothalamic oligodendrocytes. Using selective reactivation of the mutant TRα1 during specific developmental periods, we find that early postnatal thyroid hormone action seems to be crucial for proper hypothalamic oligodendrocyte maturation. Taken together, our findings underline the well-known importance of postnatal thyroid health for brain development and provide an unbiased roadmap for the identification of cellular targets of TRα1 action in mouse hypothalamic development.
The Effects of Time Preferences on Cooperation: Experimental Evidence from Infinitely Repeated Games
Authors: Kim Jeongbin
Published: January 2023

This paper studies the effects of time preferences on cooperation in an infinitely repeated prisoner’s dilemma game experiment. Subjects play repeated games in the lab, all decisions at once, but stage game payoffs are paid over an extended period of time. Changing the time window of stage game payoffs (weekly or monthly) varies discount factors, and a delay for the first-stage game payoffs eliminates/weakens present bias. First, subjects with weekly payments cooperate more than subjects with monthly payments—higher discount factors promote greater cooperation. Second, the rate of cooperation is higher when there is a delay—present bias reduces cooperation. (JEL C72, C73, D91)
Renal venous density in the arterial phase of contrast-enhanced CT predicts prognosis in septic shock
Authors: Peng Yang , Wang Ke , Tang Guanglei , Sun Mengya , Li Ruixi , Li Chang , Zhou Xuhui , Guan Jian
Published: January 2023

Objective:

To evaluate a series of vascular parameters derived from abdominal dual-phase contrast-enhanced CT as predictors of 14-day mortality and AKI within 7 days in septic shock.

Methods:

144 patients with septic shock and 60 negative cases were included. The vascular parameters from CT were measured and calculated, including aortic density in arterial (Dena-A) and venous phase (Dena-V), renal vein density in arterial (Denrv-A) and venous phase (Denrv-V), and renal vein-to-aortic density ratio in arterial (DenRrv/a-A) and venous phase (DenRrv/a-V). The parameters were compared between patients and controls, and between patients with different clinical outcomes, and assessed for predictive value of 14-day mortality and AKI within 7 days.

Results:

Patients with septic shock presented significantly lower Denrv-A (p < 0.001) and DenRrv/a-A (p = 0.002) levels than the controls. In the septic shock group, patients who died had significantly lower Denrv-A (p = 0.001) and lower DenRrv/a-A (p < 0.001) than those who survived. Patients who developed AKI had significantly lower Denrv-A (p < 0.001) and DenRrv/a-A (p = 0.011) than those who did not. Multivariate analysis suggested DenRrv/a-A as an independent predictor of 14-day mortality (OR 0.012; 95% confidence interval [CI]:0.002,0.086; p < 0.001) and Denrv-A as an independent predictor of AKI (OR 0.989;95% CI:0.982,0.997; p = 0.006).

Conclusion:

In septic shock, significant decreases in Denrv-A and DenRrv/a-A were associated with the onset of AKI and predicted higher 14-day mortality.

Advances in knowledge:

The renal vein density and renal vein-aortic density ratio in arterial phase of dual-phase contrast-enhanced CT may serve as good predictors of AKI and mortality in septic shock.
Psychological and pedagogical aspects of the formation of professional subjectivity of federal civil servants (on the example of future officers): monograph
Authors: Skvortsov I.M. , Bolshakova V.M. , Dyachkov A.A. , Naumov P.Yu.
Published: January 2023

Книга посвящена исследованию психологических и педагогических основ формирования профессиональной субъектности федеральных государственных служащих, которое осуществляется на примере будущих офицеров. В работе выявляются теоретические основания формирования профессиональной субъектности, конструируется комплекс педагогического сопровождения этого формирования и осуществляется эмпирическое исследование, а также определяются основные пути повышения эффективности формирования профессиональной субъектности. Монография будет интересна научным работникам, профессорско-преподавательскому составу образовательных и научных организаций, аспирантам (адъюнктам), студентам и всем, кто интересуется психологическими и педагогическими проблемами в высшей школе. Авторские разработки можно применять при организации и осуществлении педагогического процесса по различным специальностям и направлениям подготовки в образовательных организациях высшего образования.
Medieval Rarity or a Perfect Forgery?
Authors: Musialik Elżbieta
Published: January 2023

Średniowieczny unikat czy idealny falsyfikat? Kubek do gry w kości ze scenami dworskimi w kolekcji Muzeum Książąt Czartoryskich w Krakowie
W Muzeum Książąt Czartoryskich w Krakowie znajduje się największy w Polsce zbiór średniowiecznych wyrobów z kości słoniowej. Do kolekcji pozyskiwane były one głównie dzięki księciu Władysławowi Czartoryskiemu, założycielowi Muzeum w Krakowie. W tej zróżnicowanej grupie artefaktów (w jej skład wchodzą m.in. dwie figurki Marii z Dzieciątkiem, pióro pastorału, szkatuła z warsztatu Embriachich) znajduje się kubek do gry w kości, który dotychczas w literaturze przedmiotu uważany był za wyrób francuski z pierwszej połowy XIV wieku. Szeroko zakrojona kwerenda, przede wszystkim w bazie Gothic Ivories Project, pozwoliła ustalić, że przedmiot jest zupełnym unikatem nie tylko w zbiorach polskich, ale także światowych. Kubek zdobią dwie rzeźbione sceny – pierwsza przedstawia damę i młodzieńca zajętych grą w kości, druga ukazuje scenę dworską, której ikonografia nie znajduje analogii wśród innych znanych średniowiecznych ivoirów. Za tym, że dzieło może być wyrobem średniowiecznym przemawia przede wszystkim styl, łączący kubek z oprawami lusterek powstającymi od początku aż do połowy XIV wieku. Funkcja kubka i jego ikonografia każą jednak podać w wątpliwość oryginalność dzieła – wiele wskazuje bowiem na to, że średniowiecznych gier w kości nie rozgrywano z użyciem kubków. Pod koniec XVIII i w XIX wieku, w czasach tzw. manii kolekcjonerskiej na rynku antykwarycznym pojawiło się wiele falsyfikatów średniowiecznych dzieł, w tym także z kości. W artykule podjęta została próba umieszczenia kubka w kontekście ikonograficznym oraz stylowym (zwłaszcza w zestawieniu z innymi wyrobami z kości słoniowej). Podniesiony został również aspekt jego funkcji na tle średniowiecznych praktyk dworskich, ze szczególnym naciskiem na gry planszowe. Na końcu poruszona została kwestia datowania dzieła. Wyjaśnienie wymienionych zagadnień może pomóc w próbie odpowiedzi na pytanie, czy kubek w kolekcji Czartoryskich jest jedynym w swoim rodzaju dziełem średniowiecznym, czy też udanym falsyfikatem.
Development of diagnosis and treatment in the iliotibial band syndrome
Authors: Pawlina Mateusz , Pawełczak Natalia , Oskroba Aleksander , Orzechowska Aleksandra , Ziętara Karolina , Stawikowski Cezary , Zielonka Bartłomiej , Kowalczyk Ilona , Pawłowski Piotr , Raksa Karolina
Published: January 2023

Introduction and objective: The iliotibial band (ITB) is a complex structure located in the lateral part of the thigh and consists of longitudinally arranged fascial connective tissue. The aim of this study is to analyze the current literature regarding etiology, epidemiology, diagnosis, and conservative treatment of iliotibial band syndrome (ITBS).
Materials and methods: PubMed database were searched. The criteria for qualifying the article for the review were the following keywords: running, iliotibial band syndrome, knee injuries, conservative treatment, physical therapy modalities. 11 articles from 2017 to 2022 were analyzed. The searches included systematic reviews, meta-analyses, randomized controlled trials, and review articles.
Description of the state of knowledge: Iliotibial band syndrome is the most common cause of lateral knee pain in runners and cyclists.  It is presumably caused by excessive tension in the iliotibial band. Excessive tension is the result of overuse disorder of the lateral knee. Key symptom of ITBS is sharp or burning pain in the region of the lateral femoral epicondyle.. Pain typically occurs during physical activity, after a reproducible time or distance of running. The diagnosis is achieved through taking clinical history and physical assessment.
Summary: Treatment of ITBS is based on therapeutic exercise, manual therapy, neuromuscular re-education, modalities and  anti-inflammatory medications. Eliminating modifiable risk factors helps prevent ITBS from recurring.
Pain Management Options in a Patient with Livedoid Vasculopathy and Peripheral Neuropathy
Authors: Palanisamy Nageshwari , Chinnappan Justine , Bachuwa Ghassan
Published: January 2023

Livedoid vasculopathy (LV) is a rare clinical condition presenting as painful lesions mostly on the lower extremities. We present a case of LV with peripheral neuropathy in a young man initially misdiagnosed and treated for cellulitis. He was started on aspirin, pentoxifylline and apixaban immediately after the diagnosis of LV. However, pain management was a real challenge for the clinicians. Hence, he was later treated with epoprostenol and amlodipine for vasodilation, steroids for any possible inflammation, and antibiotics to treat superimposed infection. Irrespective of all the above, his pain was uncontrollable, and he finally received ketamine infusions along with narcotics, achieving better pain control. Various studies support the use of intravenous immunoglobulin and anti-TNF agents for pain relief in idiopathic and secondary LV. Intermittent low-dose dabigatran has also been found to be effective in the maintenance of remission in LV. However, no large studies have yet been conducted to confirm the efficacy of these medications.
Using clinical surveillance software to support effective infection prevention and control for managing COVID-19
Authors: Hoyle Emma F
Published: January 2023

The speed, severity and scale of the COVID-19 pandemic challenged infection prevention and control (IPC) efforts at hospitals worldwide. Dorset County Hospital NHS Foundation Trust in Dorchester had an established pandemic plan, which had been developed in response to the swine flu (H1N1) pandemic in 2009. However, the COVID-19 pandemic developed to a level that modern health care had not seen before and it remains the largest challenge for health care to date. This article outlines the experience of a rural district general hospital using digital solutions for infection prevention and control before and during the pandemic. The author will explore the experience of a hospital that implemented specialised clinical surveillance software, how it was applied to management and control of COVID-19 cases, and how the availability of that system allowed for continued focus on controlling other pathogens in the hospital environment, even at the height of the pandemic.
Understanding the experiences of cancer patients referred for a clinical trial during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Hood Ben
Published: January 2023

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic affected cancer patients regardless of the stage of their diagnosis or treatment. Aims: To understand the experiences of cancer patients who were referred for a clinical trial at that time. Method: Cancer patients who attended their initial research outpatient appointment to discuss the possibility of taking part in a clinical trial were asked to complete the Generalised Anxiety Disorder Assessment questionnaire, and take part in semi-structured interviews. Findings: Data indicated that, on average, patients had moderate levels of anxiety. Three major themes emerged from patients’ interviews, which gave an insight into what they experienced during this challenging period. Conclusion: This study gives an insight into the experiences of cancer patients who were referred for a clinical trial at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. It illustrated the impact of social distancing and the effect of virus-related fear on cancer patients’ mental health.
Transistor Meets IoT Power Needs
Authors: Pitcher Graham
Published: January 2023

START UP CREATES FLAT FIELD TRANSISTOR FOR BULK CMOS PROCESSES BEYOND THE 40NM NODE.
AMD Targets the Core to the Edge
Authors: Tyler Neil
Published: January 2023

NEW MARKETS FOR LATEST PROCESSOR FAMILIES.
5G: the New Electricity
Authors: Tyler Neil
Published: January 2023

QUALCOMM DEMONSTRATES TECHNOLOGIES HELPING TO DRIVING 5G AND ITS EVOLVING MOBILE ECOSYSTEM.
A Clever Connection
Authors: Grylls Bethan
Published: January 2023

HARWIN SHOWCASES ROBUST AND ADAPTABLE CONNECTORS TO EMBEDDED AUDIENCE.
Bus Stpp?
Authors: Pitcher Graham
Published: January 2023

While the debate about VME’s future continues, companies are developing new VAAE products and customers are still specifying the standard.
Thinking Outside the Box
Authors: Grylls Bethan
Published: January 2023

The role of the distribution is changing, but where does this leave suppliers?
Chain Reaction
Authors: Smith David , Rodwell Sean
Published: January 2023

Blockchain technology could enable payment for goods and services with your car – which has implications for tolling, traffic management and even the current global dominance of data companies.
Creative Spirit
Authors: Stone Tom
Published: January 2023

As the Department for Transport’s chief scientific adviser Professor Phil Blythe has a great many challenges laid at his door – from planning the UK’s post-Covid transportation services to decarbonizing the entire network. His intellect and wit are undoubtedly indispensable in his work, but he prizes one attribute above all others – a willingness to be creative
Prepare for the CAV Future
Authors: Dyson Lauren
Published: January 2023

Lucien Linders is general manager of Smart Mobility Living Lab: London (SMLL) – the most advanced urban connected and autonomous vehicle (CAV) testbed in the world. Here he discusses the importance of educating the wider public as to the benefits of CAVs as well as the valuable contribution that SMLL is making to developing the technologies
Using interpersonal skills to manage challenging client behaviour
Authors: Stansfield Emma
Published: January 2023

Widespread pandemic-related disruption has led to increasingly challenging client interactions. The British Veterinary Association found that 57% of veterinary staff surveyed in 2021 reported feeling intimidated by client behaviour during the previous year; a 10% increase from 2019. The psychological impact of consistently difficult or abusive interactions can be significant and contribute to the high incidences of stress, burnout, attrition and potentially suicide increasingly noted in the industry. This understanding further highlights the need to focus on developing individual self-care strategies and leaders offering appropriate support to their team. Historically, veterinary education has overlooked the importance of training in interpersonal skills, such as communication, conflict resolution and emotional intelligence. However, human and veterinary medicine is evolving with increasing recognition of the significance of communication skills training to help prevent and manage of challenging client behaviour. This may help to ensure practitioners are better prepared for the challenges that await them.
Veterinary Women in Leadership: what can the career stories of the past teach the leaders of the future?
Authors: Moore Alice , Langridge Jenny
Published: January 2023

Veterinary Women in Leadership is a collaborative project between XLVets and Veterinary Woman that brings together women from across the veterinary profession to inspire strong, healthy and representative leadership. Their first panel discussion looks at what women can learn from each other's experiences of success and failure to help guide their career pathways.
An update on Rhodococcus equi pneumonia in foals
Authors: Mackenzie Catriona
Published: January 2023

Rhodococcus equi is one of the most common causes of pneumonia in foals. Despite the widespread presence of R.equi in the environment, there is marked variation in disease prevalence. Several studies have investigated the factors that may play a role in this variation, although further research is required. The insidious nature of R.equi can make early diagnosis challenging, therefore screening of foals is common practice on endemic farms. A consequence of this has been the mass overtreatment of foals with subclinical infection, which has contributed to the development of antimicrobial resistance. Further strategies are required to better identify foals that require treatment, in order to reduce antimicrobial use without resulting in increased mortality. Effective preventative measures are also an area of great importance. Currently, the administration of hyperimmune plasma is the mainstay of prevention, but vaccination represents the ideal prevention strategy and is a major goal for the future.
Effects of Al Doping with Zinc Ferrite Nanoparticles on Structural, Magnetic and Dielectric Properties
Authors: Tambe Sunanda , Borse R. Y.
Published: January 2023

Zinc ferrite nanoparticles have wide range of the applications in the field of Electronics, Optoelectronics, Magnetics, Solar cell, Photocatalysts. With Al doping we modify their structural, magnetic and electrical properties of zinc ferrite (ZnFe2O4). In the present studies, zinc ferrite nanoparticles were prepared by sol gel method using glycine as combustion agent. The effects of Al doping concentration on the structural, morphological, optical, magnetic and electrical properties of zinc ferrites were studied. In x-ray diffraction patterns analysis confirmed the formation of the cubic spinel structure. We characterise scanning electron microscopy (SEM) with energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) in the current work to examine the morphology of the nanomaterials. The UV-Vis optical investigation showed that Al+3 doping increased absorbance and significantly decreased energy band gap value (1.90 eV-2.01 eV). The magnetic properties of zinc ferrite NPs were studied by using vibrating samples magnetometer which showed samples of pure zinc ferrites and Al-doped zinc ferrite with paramgnetism. Dielectric properties were studied from impedance analyser. When aluminium concentration increases in the zinc ferrites, dielectric characteristic results were obtained in which dielectric constant (ɛ'), dielectric loss (ɛ'') and tangent loss decreased. Also when frequency increases above all three dielectric parameters remains stable at high frequency. The obtained results of pure and Al doped Zn ferrite are useful for high frequency applications.
Is research the new advocacy? Mobilising social science research through ‘solutions-focused advocacy’
Authors: Schwan Kaitlin , Nichols Naomi , Malenfant Jayne
Published: January 2023

Advocacy coalitions have played an increasingly critical role in evidence-based policy development. Despite this, little is known about how such coalitions leverage research to influence policy. Addressing this gap, this qualitative study explores how a multi-sectoral advocacy coalition seeks to shape Canadian food security policy through ‘solutions-focused advocacy’. We explore four of the coalition’s strategies: (1) shaping policymakers’ thinking and priorities while responding to governments’ needs; (2) utilising research to help governments achieve political ‘wins’ while advancing the cause; (3) using research to broker relationships between ‘community’, government, and the coalition; and (4) mobilising research to ‘bring the sector along’.
Adjustable strong circular dichroism based on a tricircular arc metasurface
Authors: Zhao Wanli , Chen Ming , Wang Xiangyang , Liu Jinbiao , Wu Ziyong , Teng Chuanxin , Deng Shijie , Cheng Yu , Yuan Libo
Published: January 2023

Circular dichroism has promising applications in biology, molecular chemistry, and other fields. The key to obtaining strong circular dichroism is to introduce symmetry breaking into the structure, which leads to a great difference in the response to different circularly polarized waves. Here, we propose a metasurface structure based on three circular arcs, which produces strong circular dichroism. The metasurface structure combines the split ring with the three circular arcs and increases the structural asymmetry by changing the relative torsional angle. The causes of the strong circular dichroism are analyzed in this paper, and the influence of metasurface parameters on it is discussed. According to the simulation data, the response of the proposed metasurface to different circularly polarized waves varies greatly, with absorption of up to 0.99 at 5.095 THz for a left-handed circularly polarized wave and a maximum circular dichroism of over 0.93. In addition, the incorporation of the phase change material vanadium dioxide on the structure allows flexible modulation of circular dichroism and modulation depths of up to 98.6%. The change of angle within a certain range has little effect on the structural performance. We believe that this flexible and angle robust chiral metasurface structure is suitable for complex reality, and large modulation depth is more practical.
Experimental characterization of a planar phase-engineered metamaterial lenslet for millimeter astronomy
Authors: Gascard Thomas , Pisano Giampaolo , Doyle Simon , Thompson Jonathan , Shitvov Alexey , Austermann Jason , Beall James , Hubmayr Johannes , Raymond Benjamin , Halverson Nils , Jaehnig Gregory , McKenney Christopher M. , Suzuki Aritoki
Published: January 2023

To unveil presently inscrutable details of the origins of our universe
imprinted in the cosmic microwave background, future experiments in
the millimeter and submillimeter range are focusing
on the detection of fine
features, which necessitate large and sensitive detector arrays to
enable multichroic mapping of
the sky. Currently, various approaches for coupling light to such
detectors are under investigation, namely, coherently summed
hierarchical arrays, platelet horns, and antenna-coupled planar
lenslets. The last option offers increased bandwidth and a simpler
fabrication while maintaining the desired optical performance. In this
work, the design, fabrication, and experimental characterization of a
prototype planar metamaterial phase-engineered lenslet operating in
W-band [75 GHz; 110 GHz] is presented. Its radiated
field, initially modeled and measured on a systematics-limited optical
bench, is compared against a simulated hyperhemispherical lenslet, a
more established technology. It is reported here that our device
reaches the cosmic microwave background (CMB) specification for the
next stages of experiments, demonstrating power coupling above 95% and
beam Gaussicity above 97% while maintaining ellipticity below 10% and
a cross-polarization level below −21dB through its operating bandwidth. Such
results underline the potential advantages our lenslet can offer as
focal optics for future CMB experiments.
Inverse design of photonic crystal filters with arbitrary correlation and size for accurate spectrum reconstruction
Authors: Wang Wenqi , Dong Qiao , Zhang Zhixiao , Cao Hao , Xiang Jin , Gao Li
Published: January 2023

Spectroscopic technique based on nanophotonic filters can recover spectral information through compressive sensing theory. The spectral information is encoded by nanophotonic response functions and decoded by computational algorithms. They are generally ultracompact, low in cost, and offer single-shot operation with spectral resolution better than 1 nm. Thus, they could be ideally suited for emerging wearable and portable sensing and imaging applications. Previous work has revealed that successful spectral reconstruction relies on well-designed filter response functions with sufficient randomness and low mutual correlation, but no thorough discussion has been performed on the filter array design. Here, instead of blind selection of filter structures, inverse design algorithms are proposed to obtain a photonic crystal filter array with predefined correlation coefficients and array size. Such rational spectrometer design can perform accurate reconstruction for a complex spectrum and maintain the performance under noise perturbation. We also discuss the impact of correlation coefficient and array size on the spectrum reconstruction accuracy. Our filter design method can be extended to different filter structures and suggests a better encoding component for reconstructive spectrometer applications.
Competence remodels the pneumococcal cell wall exposing key surface virulence factors that mediate increased host adherence
Authors: Minhas Vikrant , Domenech Arnau , Synefiaridou Dimitra , Straume Daniel , Brendel Max , Cebrero Gonzalo , Liu Xue , Costa Charlotte , Baldry Mara , Sirard Jean-Claude , Perez Camilo , Gisch Nicolas , Hammerschmidt Sven , Håvarstein Leiv Sigve , Veening Jan-Willem
Published: January 2023

Competence development in the human pathogen Streptococcus pneumoniae controls several features such as genetic transformation, biofilm formation, and virulence. Competent bacteria produce so-called “fratricins” such as CbpD that kill noncompetent siblings by cleaving peptidoglycan (PGN). CbpD is a choline-binding protein (CBP) that binds to phosphorylcholine residues found on wall and lipoteichoic acids (WTA and LTA) that together with PGN are major constituents of the pneumococcal cell wall. Competent pneumococci are protected against fratricide by producing the immunity protein ComM. How competence and fratricide contribute to virulence is unknown. Here, using a genome-wide CRISPRi-seq screen, we show that genes involved in teichoic acid (TA) biosynthesis are essential during competence. We demonstrate that LytR is the major enzyme mediating the final step in WTA formation, and that, together with ComM, is essential for immunity against CbpD. Importantly, we show that key virulence factors PspA and PspC become more surface-exposed at midcell during competence, in a CbpD-dependent manner. Together, our work supports a model in which activation of competence is crucial for host adherence by increased surface exposure of its various CBPs.
Distinct cytokine profiles in malaria coinfections: A systematic review
Authors: Kotepui Manas , Mala Wanida , Kwankaew Pattamaporn , Kotepui Kwuntida Uthaisar , Masangkay Frederick Ramirez , Wilairatana Polrat
Published: January 2023

Background

Few data exist on the distinct cytokine profiles of individuals with malaria coinfections and other diseases. This study focuses on data collation of distinct cytokine profiles between individuals with malaria coinfections and monoinfections to provide evidence for further diagnostic or prognostic studies.

Methods

We searched five medical databases, including Embase, MEDLINE, PubMed, Ovid, and Scopus, for articles on cytokines in malaria coinfections published from January 1, 1983 to May 3, 2022, after which the distinct cytokine patterns between malaria coinfection and monoinfection were illustrated in heat maps.

Results

Preliminary searches identified 2127 articles, of which 34 were included in the systematic review. Distinct cytokine profiles in malaria coinfections with bacteremia; HIV; HBV; dengue; filariasis; intestinal parasites; and schistosomiasis were tumor necrosis factor (TNF), interferon (IFN)-γ, IFN-α, interleukin (IL)-1, IL-1 receptor antagonist (Ra), IL-4, IL-7, IL-12, IL-15, IL-17; TNF, IL-1Ra, IL-4, IL-10, IL-12, IL-18, CCL3, CCL5, CXCL8, CXCL9, CXCL11, granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF); TNF, IFN-γ, IL-4, IL-6, IL-10, IL-12, CCL2; IFN-γ, IL-1, IL-4, IL-6, IL-10, IL-12, IL-13, IL-17, CCL2, CCL3, CCL4, G-CSF; IL-1Ra, IL-10, CXCL5, CXCL8, CXCL10; TNF, IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, IL-10; and TNF, IFN-γ, IL-4, IL-5, IL-10, transforming growth factor-β, CXCL8, respectively.

Conclusion

This systematic review provides information on distinct cytokine profiles of malaria coinfections and malaria monoinfections. Further studies should investigate whether specific cytokines for each coinfection type could serve as essential diagnostic or prognostic biomarkers for malaria coinfections.
The effect of global warming on the Australian endemic orchid Cryptostylis leptochila and its pollinator
Authors: Kolanowska Marta , Michalska Ewa
Published: January 2023

Ecological stability together with the suitability of abiotic conditions are crucial for long-term survival of any organism and the maintenance of biodiversity and self-sustainable ecosystems relies on species interactions. By influencing resource availability plants affect the composition of plant communities and ultimately ecosystem functioning. Plant-animal interactions are very complex and include a variety of exploitative and mutualistic relationships. One of the most important mutualistic interactions is that between plants and their pollinators. Coevolution generates clustered links between plants and their pollen vectors, but the pollination and reproductive success of plants is reduced by increase in the specialization of plant-animal interactions. One of the most specialized types of pollination is sexual deception, which occurs almost exclusively in Orchidaceae. In this form of mimicry, male insects are attracted to orchid flowers by chemical compounds that resemble insect female sex pheromones and pollinate the flowers during attempted copulations. These interactions are often species-specific with each species of orchid attracting only males of one or very few closely related species of insects. For sexually deceptive orchids the presence of a particular pollen vector is crucial for reproductive success and any reduction in pollinator availability constitutes a threat to the orchid. Because global warming is rapidly becoming the greatest threat to all organisms by re-shaping the geographical ranges of plants, animals and fungi, this paper focuses on predicting the effect of global warming onCryptostylis leptochila, a terrestrial endemic in eastern Australia that is pollinated exclusivelyviapseudo copulation withLissopimpla excelsa. As a species with a single pollinator this orchid is a perfect model for studies on the effect of global warming on plants and their pollen vectors. According to our predictions, global warming will cause a significant loss of suitable niches forC.leptochila. The potential range of this orchid will be 36%-75% smaller than currently and as a result the Eastern Highlands will become unsuitable forC.leptochila. On the other hand, some new niches will become available for this species in Tasmania. Simultaneously, climate change will result in a substantial expansion of niches suitable for the pollinator (44–82%). Currently ca. 71% of the geographical range of the orchid is also suitable forL.excelsa, therefore, almost 30% of the areas occupied byC.leptochilaalready lack the pollen vector. The predicted availability of the pollen vector increased under three of the climate change scenarios analysed. The predicted habitat loss is a serious threat to this orchid even with the potential colonization of Tasmania by this plant. In the reduced range ofC.leptochilathe pollen vector will also be present assuring fruit set in populations of this orchid. The genetic pool of the populations in New South Wales and Queensland will probably be lost.
Vegetation and climate change at the southern margin of the Neo-Tethys during the Cenomanian (Late Cretaceous): Evidence from Egypt
Authors: El Atfy Haytham , Coiffard Clément , El Beialy Salah Y. , Uhl Dieter
Published: January 2023

Changes in terrestrial vegetation during the mid-Cretaceous and their link to climate and environmental change are poorly understood. In this study, we use plant macrofossils and analysis of fossil pollen and spores from the Western Desert, Egypt, to assess temporal changes in plant communities during the Cenomanian. The investigated strata have relatively diverse sporomorph assemblages, which reflect the nature of parent vegetation. Specifically, the palynofloras represent ferns, conifers, monosulcate pollen producers, Gnetales, and a diverse group of angiosperms. Comparisons of both, dispersed palynoflora and plant macrofossils reveal different characteristics of the palaeoflora owing to a plethora of taphonomical and ecological biases including the depositional environment, production levels, and discrepancies between different plant organs. A combination of detailed records of sporomorphs, leaves, and charcoal from the studied successions provide new understandings of the palaeoclimate and palaeogeography during the Cenomanian and Albian-Cenomanian transition in Egypt. The mixed composition of the palynofloral assemblages reflects the presence of different depositional situations with a weak marine influence, as evidenced by a minor dinoflagellate cysts component. The local vegetation comprised various categories including herbaceous groups including ferns and eudicots, fluvial, open environments, and xeric arboreal communities dominated by Cheirolepidiaceae and perhaps including drought- and/or salt-tolerating ferns (Anemiaceae) and other gymnosperms (Araucariaceae, Ginkgoales, Cycadales, and Gnetales) as well as angiosperms. The presence of riparian and freshwater wetland communities favouring aquatic and/or hygrophilous ferns (of Salviniaceae and Marsileaceae), is noted. The wide variation of depositional settings derived from the palynological data may be attributed to a prevalent occurrence of producers in local vegetation during the early Cenomanian of Egypt. For the purpose of this work on the studied Bahariya Formation and its equivalent rock units, where iconic dinosaurs and other fossil fauna roamed, we attempt to improve the understanding of Egypt’s Cenomanian climate, which is reconstructed as generally warm and humid punctuated by phases of considerably drier conditions of varying duration.
Quantitative proteomic analysis of extracellular vesicles in response to baculovirus infection of a Trichoplusia ni cell line
Authors: Hausjell Christina Sophie , Ernst Wolfgang , Grünwald-Gruber Clemens , Arcalis Elsa , Grabherr Reingard
Published: January 2023

Due to its outstanding suitability to produce complex biopharmaceutical products including virus-like particles and subunit vaccines, the baculovirus/insect cell expression system has developed into a highly popular production platform in the biotechnological industry. For high productivity, virus-cell communication and an efficient spreading of the viral infection are crucial, and, in this context, extracellular vesicles (EVs) might play a significant role. EVs are small particles, utilized by cells to transfer biologically active compounds such as proteins, lipids as well as nucleic acids to recipient cells for intracellular communication. Studies in mammalian cells showed that the release of EVs is altered in response to infection with many viruses, ultimately either limiting or fostering infection spreading. In this study we isolated and characterized EVs, from both uninfected and baculovirus infected Tnms42 insect cells. Via quantitative proteomic analysis we identified more than 3000 T. ni proteins in Tnms42 cell derived EVs, of which more than 400 were significantly differentially abundant upon baculovirus infection. Subsequent gene set enrichment analysis revealed a depletion of proteins related to the extracellular matrix in EVs from infected cultures. Our findings show a significant change of EV protein cargo upon baculovirus infection, suggesting a major role of EVs as stress markers. Our study might serve in designing new tools for process monitoring and control to further improve biopharmaceutical production within the baculovirus/insect cell expression system.
Haem transporter HRG-1 is essential in the barber’s pole worm and an intervention target candidate
Authors: Yang Yi , Zhou Jingru , Wu Fei , Tong Danni , Chen Xueqiu , Jiang Shengjun , Duan Yu , Yao Chaoqun , Wang Tao , Du Aifang , Gasser Robin B. , Ma Guangxu
Published: January 2023

Parasitic roundworms (nematodes) have lost genes involved in the de novo biosynthesis of haem, but have evolved the capacity to acquire and utilise exogenous haem from host animals. However, very little is known about the processes or mechanisms underlying haem acquisition and utilisation in parasites. Here, we reveal that HRG-1 is a conserved and unique haem transporter in a broad range of parasitic nematodes of socioeconomic importance, which enables haem uptake via intestinal cells, facilitates cellular haem utilisation through the endo-lysosomal system, and exhibits a conspicuous distribution at the basal laminae covering the alimentary tract, muscles and gonads. The broader tissue expression pattern of HRG-1 in Haemonchus contortus (barber’s pole worm) compared with its orthologues in the free-living nematode Caenorhabditis elegans indicates critical involvement of this unique haem transporter in haem homeostasis in tissues and organs of the parasitic nematode. RNAi-mediated gene knockdown of hrg-1 resulted in sick and lethal phenotypes of infective larvae of H. contortus, which could only be rescued by supplementation of exogenous haem in the early developmental stage. Notably, the RNAi-treated infective larvae could not establish infection or survive in the mammalian host, suggesting an indispensable role of this haem transporter in the survival of this parasite. This study provides new insights into the haem biology of a parasitic nematode, demonstrates that haem acquisition by HRG-1 is essential for H. contortus survival and infection, and suggests that HRG-1 could be an intervention target candidate in a range of parasitic nematodes.