bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cortical interneuron development is affected in 4H leukodystrophy
Authors: Dooves Stephanie , Kok Liza M L , Holmes Dwayne B , Breeuwsma Nicole , Breur Marjolein , Bugiani Marianna , Wolf Nicole I , Heine Vivi M
Published: February 2023

4H leukodystrophy is a rare genetic disorder classically characterized by hypomyelination, hypodontia and hypogonadotropic hypogonadism. With the discovery that 4H is caused by mutations that affect RNA polymerase III, mainly involved in the transcription of small non-coding RNAs, patients with atypical presentations with mainly a neuronal phenotype were also identified. Pathomechanisms of 4H brain abnormalities are still unknown and research is hampered by a lack of preclinical models. We aimed to identify cells and pathways that are affected by 4H mutations using induced pluripotent stem cell models.

RNA sequencing analysis on induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cerebellar cells revealed several differentially expressed genes between 4H patients and control samples, including reduced ARX expression. As ARX is involved in early brain and interneuron development, we studied and confirmed interneuron changes in primary tissue of 4H patients. Subsequently, we studied interneuron changes in more depth and analysed induced pluripotent stem cell-derived cortical neuron cultures for changes in neuronal morphology, synaptic balance, network activity and myelination. We showed a decreased percentage of GABAergic synapses in 4H, which correlated to increased neuronal network activity. Treatment of cultures with GABA antagonists led to a significant increase in neuronal network activity in control cells but not in 4H cells, also pointing to lack of inhibitory activity in 4H. Myelination and oligodendrocyte maturation in cultures with 4H neurons was normal, and treatment with sonic hedgehog agonist SAG did not improve 4H related neuronal phenotypes. Quantitative PCR analysis revealed increased expression of parvalbumin interneuron marker ERBB4, suggesting that the development rather than generation of interneurons may be affected in 4H.

Together, these results indicate that interneurons are involved, possibly parvalbumin interneurons, in disease mechanisms of 4H leukodystrophy.
Age-related differences in resting-state functional connectivity from childhood to adolescence
Authors: Sanders Ashley F P , Harms Michael P , Kandala Sridhar , Marek Scott , Somerville Leah H , Bookheimer Susan Y , Dapretto Mirella , Thomas Kathleen M , Van Essen David C , Yacoub Essa , Barch Deanna M
Published: February 2023

The human brain is active at rest, and spontaneous fluctuations in functional MRI BOLD signals reveal an intrinsic functional architecture. During childhood and adolescence, functional networks undergo varying patterns of maturation, and measures of functional connectivity within and between networks differ as a function of age. However, many aspects of these developmental patterns (e.g. trajectory shape and directionality) remain unresolved. In the present study, we characterised age-related differences in within- and between-network resting-state functional connectivity (rsFC) and integration (i.e. participation coefficient, PC) in a large cross-sectional sample of children and adolescents (n = 628) aged 8–21 years from the Lifespan Human Connectome Project in Development. We found evidence for both linear and non-linear differences in cortical, subcortical, and cerebellar rsFC, as well as integration, that varied by age. Additionally, we found that sex moderated the relationship between age and putamen integration where males displayed significant age-related increases in putamen PC compared with females. Taken together, these results provide evidence for complex, non-linear differences in some brain systems during development.
Delivering difference: ‘Unbelonging’ among US platform parcel delivery workers
Authors: Johnston Hannah , Mommadova Yana , Vallas Steven , Schor Juliet
Published: February 2023

This paper explores a neglected aspect of platform work: how the spatial mobility that app-based couriers must perform requires them to violate taken-for-granted assumptions that define who belongs where. By assigning tasks during atypical hours and requiring gig workers to use their personal clothing, tools and vehicles, platforms strip delivery workers of signifiers that legitimate their presence in consumers’ neighbourhoods. The result is a condition we call ‘unbelonging’ – a liminal state in which their presence is considered problematic, exposing them to threats of physical and symbolic violence. Our findings, which draw on 45 interviews with parcel delivery workers, contribute to the developing literature on urban geography and the socio-spatial impacts of the platform revolution.
Post-quantum cryptographic assemblages and the governance of the quantum threat
Authors: Csenkey Kristen , Bindel Nina
Published: February 2023

Threats against security in the Internet often have a wide range and can have serious impacts within society. Large quantum computers will be able to break the cryptographic algorithms used to ensure security today, which is known as the quantum threat. Quantum threats are multi-faceted and very complex cybersecurity issues. We use assemblage theory to explore the complexities associated with these threats, including how they are understood within policy and strategy. It is in this way that we explore how the governance of the quantum threat is made visible. Generally, the private and academic sectors have been a primary driver in this field, but other actors (especially states) have begun to grapple with the threat and have begun to understand the relation to defence challenges, and pathways to cooperation in order to prepare against the threat. This may pose challenges for traditional avenues of defence cooperation as states attempt to understand and manage the associated technologies and perceived threats. We examine how traditionally cooperating allies attempt to govern the quantum threat by focusing on Australia, Canada, European Union, New Zealand, UK, and USA. We explore the linkages within post-quantum cryptographic assemblages and identify several governmental interventions as attempts to understand and manage the threat and associated technologies. In examining over 40 policy and strategy-related documents between traditionally defence cooperating allies, we identify six main linkages: Infrastructure, Standardization, Education, Partnerships, Economy, and Defence. These linkages highlight the governmental interventions to govern through standardization and regulation as a way to define the contours of the quantum threat.
Challenging sympathy in Mary Shelley’s fiction: Frankenstein, Mathilda, and ‘The Mourner’
Authors: Faubert Michelle
Published: February 2023

Several critics have noted Mary Shelley’s engagement with the medico-philosophical concept of sympathy in Frankenstein (1818) and, to a lesser extent, in Mathilda (written 1819; published 1959), but no one has observed that these texts – and I would add her critically neglected short-story ‘The Mourner’ (1830) to the mix – work together to explore sympathy as problematic, both between characters and in terms of readerly affect. Unusually for the Romantic period, when sympathy was almost always viewed as positive, all three of these texts show how and when sympathy can go too far and become destructive, travel beyond the bounds of social norms, or even become dangerous. These fictions should be understood as a triad that tests popular notions about sympathy as unproblematically good, showing that the challenge of sympathy is an intellectual problem Shelley investigates for over a decade in her fiction.
Evolutionary radiation in canids following continental colonizations
Authors: Porto Lucas M V , Etienne Rampal S , Maestri Renan
Published: February 2023

Colonization of a new environment may trigger an evolutionary radiation, defined as an accelerated accumulation of species in a short period of time. However, how often colonization events trigger such radiations is still an open question. We studied the worldwide dispersal of Caninae to investigate whether the invasion of new continents resulted in elevated species diversification. We used a combination of ancestral range estimation and phylogenetic analyses to estimate the ancestral ranges of 56 extant and extinct species of Caninae, as well as variation in speciation and extinction rates through time and across clades. Our findings indicate that canids experienced an evolutionary radiation event when lineages were able to reach Eurasia and South America around 11 million years ago. A large number of species arising in a short period of time suggests that canids experienced ecological opportunity events within the new areas, implying that the differences in the ecological settings between continents, and size variation among Canidae and other carnivores may be responsible for the variation in clade dynamics. We suggest that the increase of grasslands and the new herbivorous fauna that came with it were the major forces responsible for the diversification of wolves in North America, while empty niches and the absence of competitors can explain the success of canids in Africa and South America. Interaction with other carnivores probably also affected the diversification dynamics of canids.
Wide distribution of D-xylose dehydrogenase in yeasts reveals a new element in the D-xylose metabolism for bioethanol production
Authors: Galhardo Juliana P , Piffer André P , Fiamenghi Mateus B , Borelli Guilherme , da Silva Duguay R M , Vasconcelos Adrielle A , Carazzolle Marcelo F , Pereira Gonçalo A G , José Juliana
Published: February 2023

D-xylose utilization by yeasts is an essential feature for improving second-generation ethanol production. However, industrial yeast strains are incapable of consuming D-xylose. Previous analyzes of D-xylose-consuming or fermenting yeast species reveal that the genomic features associated with this phenotype are complex and still not fully understood. Here we present a previously neglected yeast enzyme related to D-xylose metabolism, D-xylose dehydrogenase (XylDH), which is found in at least 105 yeast genomes. By analyzing the XylDH gene family, we brought evidence of gene evolution marked by purifying selection on codons and positive selection evidence in D-xylose-consuming and fermenting species, suggesting the importance of XylDH for D-xylose-related phenotypes in yeasts. Furthermore, although we found no putative metabolic pathway for XylDH in yeast genomes, namely the absence of three bacterial known pathways for this enzyme, we also provide its expression profile on D-xylose media following D-xylose reductase for two yeasts with publicly available transcriptomes. Based on these results, we suggest that XylDH plays an important role in D-xylose usage by yeasts, likely being involved in a cofactor regeneration system by reducing cofactor imbalance in the D-xylose reductase pathway.
Mixed yeast communities contribute to regionally distinct wine attributes
Authors: Hawkins Diana Lynne , Ryder Jess , Lee Soon A , Parish-Virtue Katie , Fedrizzi Bruno , Goddard Matthew R , Knight Sarah J
Published: February 2023

There is evidence that vineyard yeast communities are regionally differentiated, but the extent to which this contributes to wine regional distinctiveness is not yet clear. This study represents the first experimental test of the hypothesis that mixed yeast communities—comprising multiple, region-specific, isolates, and species—contribute to regional wine attributes. Yeast isolates were sourced from uninoculated Pinot Noir fermentations from 17 vineyards across Martinborough, Marlborough, and Central Otago in New Zealand. New methodologies for preparing representative, mixed species inoculum from these significantly differentiated regional yeast communities in a controlled, replicable manner were developed and used to inoculate Pinot Noir ferments. A total of 28 yeast-derived aroma compounds were measured in the resulting wines via headspace solid-phase microextraction coupled with gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Yeast community region of origin had a significant impact on wine aroma, explaining ∼10% of the observed variation, which is in line with previous reports of the effects of region-specific Saccharomyces cerevisiae isolates on Sauvignon Blanc ferments. This study shows that regionally distinct, mixed yeast communities can modulate wine aroma compounds in a regionally distinct manner and are in line with the hypothesis that there is a microbial component to regional distinctiveness, or terroir, for New Zealand Pinot Noir.
Estimating the genetic parameters of yield-related traits under different nitrogen conditions in maize
Authors: Palali Delen Semra , Xu Gen , Velazquez-Perfecto Jenifer , Yang Jinliang
Published: February 2023

Understanding the genetic basis responding to nitrogen (N) fertilization in crop production is a long-standing research topic in plant breeding and genetics. Albeit years of continuous efforts, the genetic architecture parameters, such as heritability, polygenicity, and mode of selection, underlying the N responses in maize remain largely unclear. In this study, about n = 230 maize inbred lines were phenotyped under high N (HN) and low N (LN) conditions for 2 consecutive years to obtain 6 yield-related traits. Heritability analyses suggested that traits highly responsive to N treatments were less heritable. Using publicly available SNP genotypes, the genome-wide association study (GWAS) was conducted to identify n = 237 and n = 130 trait-associated loci under HN and LN conditions, n = 164 for N-responsive (NR) traits, and n = 31 for genotype by N interaction (G × N). Furthermore, genome-wide complex trait Bayesian (GCTB) analysis, a method complementary to GWAS, was performed to estimate genetic parameters, including genetic polygenicity and the mode of selection (S). GCTB results suggested that the NR value of a yield component trait was highly polygenic and that 4 NR traits exhibited negative correlations between SNP effects and their minor allele frequencies (or the S value <0)—a pattern consistent with negative selection to purge deleterious alleles. This study reveals the complex genetic architecture underlying N responses for yield-related traits and provides candidate genetic loci for N resilient maize improvement.
Well-Being as a Protective Factor Against Cognitive Decline and Dementia: A Review of the Literature and Directions for Future Research
Authors: Willroth Emily C , Pfund Gabrielle N , McGhee Chloe , Rule Payton
Published: February 2023

Objectives

Treatments that target the biological causes of dementia remain limited, making prevention critically important. Well-being—defined broadly as living in accordance with one’s potential and experiencing one’s life as enjoyable and satisfying—is a promising avenue for prevention. It can be targeted by large-scale, noninvasive interventions and has been linked with better cognitive health and lower dementia risk. In the current review, we begin by summarizing empirical evidence linking well-being to cognitive functioning, cognitive decline, dementia diagnosis, and dementia-related neuropathology. Then, we highlight 3 key areas for future research.

Methods

We searched the literature on wellbeing, cognitive decline, and dementia, focusing on prospective and longitidinal evidence.

Results

The research reviewed here provides consistent evidence for associations of well-being with cognitive decline, dementia risk, and cognitive resilience to neuropathology. However, several open questions remain regarding (1) causality and mechanism(s), (2) specificity versus generalizability of associations, and (3) timing.

Discussion

To inform potential intervention efforts, the field must address complex open questions about whether, how, when, and for whom well-being influences dementia risk. The majority of existing research on well-being and cognitive health is correlational, and few studies have tested potential mechanisms that may explain those associations. Further, relatively little is known about the generalizability of associations across different aspects of well-being and for different sociocultural groups. Finally, we do not yet understand when in the life span and on what timescale well-being might influence cognitive health. We discuss challenges and opportunities for addressing each of these open questions, including concrete recommendations for research designs and use of open science practices.
Chromosome-level genome assembly of goose provides insight into the adaptation and growth of local goose breeds
Authors: Zhao Qiqi , Lin Zhenping , Chen Junpeng , Xie Zi , Wang Jun , Feng Keyu , Lin Wencheng , Li Hongxin , Hu Zezhong , Chen Weiguo , Chen Feng , Junaid Muhammad , Zhang Huanmin , Xie Qingmei , Zhang Xinheng
Published: February 2023

Background

Anatidae contains numerous waterfowl species with great economic value, but the genetic diversity basis remains insufficiently investigated. Here, we report a chromosome-level genome assembly of Lion-head goose (Anser cygnoides), a native breed in South China, through the combination of PacBio, Bionano, and Hi-C technologies.

Findings

The assembly had a total genome size of 1.19 Gb, consisting of 1,859 contigs with an N50 length of 20.59 Mb, generating 40 pseudochromosomes, representing 97.27% of the assembled genome, and identifying 21,208 protein-coding genes. Comparative genomic analysis revealed that geese and ducks diverged approximately 28.42 million years ago, and geese have undergone massive gene family expansion and contraction. To identify genetic markers associated with body weight in different geese breeds, including Wuzong goose, Huangzong goose, Magang goose, and Lion-head goose, a genome-wide association study was performed, yielding an average of 1,520.6 Mb of raw data that detected 44,858 single-mucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). Genome-wide association study showed that 6 SNPs were significantly associated with body weight and 25 were potentially associated. The significantly associated SNPs were annotated as LDLRAD4, GPR180, and OR, enriching in growth factor receptor regulation pathways.

Conclusions

We present the first chromosome-level assembly of the Lion-head goose genome, which will expand the genomic resources of the Anatidae family, providing a basis for adaptation and evolution. Candidate genes significantly associated with different goose breeds may serve to understand the underlying mechanisms of weight differences.
Cyberviolence Against Women Under International Human Rights Law: Buturugă v Romania and Volodina v Russia (No 2)
Authors: Sinclair-Blakemore Adaena
Published: February 2023

This article analyses the recent judgments of Buturugă v Romania and Volodina v Russia (No 2), the first judgments of the European Court of Human Rights (Court) to recognise cyberviolence against women as a violation of Article 8 of the ECHR in circumstances where the respondent states failed to discharge their positive obligations to prevent, protect from and punish acts of cyberviolence against women. While the Court’s judgments in both cases have much to commend insofar as they expressly recognise cyberviolence against women as a human rights violation, this article posits that the Court’s framing of its analyses in both judgments under Article 8 rather than Article 3 is problematic for several reasons: first, Article 8 is a qualified right that may be subject to lawful interference by states; secondly, the invocation of Article 8 does not adequately capture the gravity of the human rights violation and, more broadly, undermines the significant progress made in establishing violence against women as a violation of the prohibition of torture, in human or degrading treatment or punishment under international law; and thirdly, the recognition of cyberviolence against women as a violation of Article 8 does little to address the recalibrated public/private distinction under international law in the digital era, which has contributed to the prevalence of cyberviolence against women. This article contends that in the future the Court’s analysis of complaints concerning cyberviolence against women would be considerably improved by examining complaints under Article 3 rather than Article 8.
Understanding work in the online platform economy: the narrow, the broad, and the systemic perspectives
Authors: Garcia Calvo Angela , Kenney Martin , Zysman John
Published: February 2023

This critical review of research on platform-mediated work argues that platform work studies are too focused on gig and remote work platforms. We introduce a framework that identifies three perspectives on how platforms reorganize work: narrow, broad, and systemic. This framework is used to examine the impact of platform-mediated work on four different aspects of work: management power, work processes, social protection and labor rights, and skills and career prospects.
When Truth Commission Models Travel: Explaining the Norwegian Case
Authors: Skaar Elin
Published: February 2023

ABSTRACT∞

This article explores ‘late justice’ in the context of settler democracies with a history of racism, using Norway as a case study. It examines the background for the Norwegian Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC), established by the Norwegian Parliament in 2018 to investigate the consequences of historical and ongoing assimilation of the indigenous Sami people and two national minorities. I argue that although the Norwegian TRC was established in direct response to an initiative from the Sami Parliament, its successful creation was a result of political negotiations involving a series of actors, including Sami activists, mainstream politicians and various interest organizations. The protagonists pushing for a truth commission were in turn encouraged and inspired by a global focus on transitional justice, truth commissions and indigenous rights. Based on a desk study, interviews and media reports, and applying a theoretical framework emphasizing agency and norm diffusion, I argue that while the Norwegian TRC has explicitly used truth commissions elsewhere in the world – particularly the Canadian TRC – as models, it is quite unique in terms of mandate and design.
Whole-Genome Sequencing to Predict Antimicrobial Susceptibility Profiles in Neisseria gonorrhoeae
Authors: Bristow Claire C , Mortimer Tatum D , Morris Sheldon , Grad Yonatan H , Soge Olusegun O , Wakatake Erika , Pascual Rushlenne , Murphy Sara McCurdy , Fryling Kyra E , Adamson Paul C , Dillon Jo-Anne , Parmar Nidhi R , Le Hai Ha Long , Van Le Hung , Ovalles Ureña Reyna Margarita , Mitchev Nireshni , Mlisana Koleka , Wi Teodora , Dickson Samuel P , Klausner Jeffrey D
Published: February 2023

Background

Neisseria gonorrhoeae is a major public health problem due to increasing incidence and antimicrobial resistance. Genetic markers of reduced susceptibility have been identified; the extent to which those are representative of global antimicrobial resistance is unknown. We evaluated the performance of whole-genome sequencing (WGS) used to predict susceptibility to ciprofloxacin and other antimicrobials using a global collection of N. gonorrhoeae isolates.

Methods

Susceptibility testing of common antimicrobials and the recently developed zolifodacin was performed using agar dilution to determine minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs). We identified resistance alleles at loci known to contribute to antimicrobial resistance in N. gonorrhoeae from WGS data. We tested the ability of each locus to predict antimicrobial susceptibility.

Results

A total of 481 N. gonorrhoeae isolates, collected between 2004 and 2019 and making up 457 unique genomes, were sourced from 5 countries. All isolates with demonstrated susceptibility to ciprofloxacin (MIC ≤0.06 μg/mL) had a wild-type gyrA codon 91. Multilocus approaches were needed to predict susceptibility to other antimicrobials. All isolates were susceptible to zoliflodacin, defined by an MIC ≤0.25 μg/mL.

Conclusions

Single marker prediction can be used to inform ciprofloxacin treatment of N. gonorrhoeae infection. A combination of molecular markers may be needed to determine susceptibility for other antimicrobials.
The Effect of Burns on Children’s Growth Trajectory: A Nationwide Cohort Study
Authors: Cuijpers Maxime D , van de Sande Pauline J H , Cords Charlotte I , Scholten-Jaegers Sonja M H J , van Zuijlen Paul P M , Baartmans Martin G A , Pijpe Anouk
Published: February 2023

This study evaluates the short- and long-term effect of burns on children’s height and weight, by comparing their pre and postburn growth trajectory. We invited children (≤17 years old), who sustained a burn requiring surgical treatment or admission at one of the Dutch burn centers in 2013 (n = 175). As well as children who sustained a severe burn, covering >10% of the total body surface area (TBSA), throughout 2009–2018 (n = 228). Data was collected from a survey on health-related topics, Youth Health Care records, and the Dutch Burn Repository R3. For all participants, height and weight were converted to Z-scores using Dutch reference values. Linear mixed modeling, nested on the individual level, was used to examine the associations between burns and children’s height and weight Z-scores. Children’s height and weight Z-scores remained within the normal range throughout the study period. During the first-year postburn, children’s height and weight Z-scores decreased by −0.21 (95% CI −0.41, −0.01) and −0.23 (95% CI −0.46, −0.04), respectively. Beyond the first-year postburn, estimates were consistent with a positive linear association between burn size and the overall effect of burns on participants’ height and weight Z-scores. This included a modest, but statistically significant, effect among participants with a burn covering ≤4.5% and >14.0% of the TBSA. Sensitivity analyses did not alter our findings. In conclusion, children were on track or even surpassed their growth potential. Our findings could therefore be considered reassuring to patients, parents, and clinicians.
Vibration analysis of electric motors considering rotating rotor structure using flexible multibody dynamics-electromagnetic-structural vibration coupled analysis
Authors: Cho Seunghyeon , Jeon Kyunghun , Kim Chang-Wan
Published: February 2023

In this study, we develop flexible multibody dynamic-electromagnetic-structural vibration coupled analysis method to accurately predict motor vibration by considering the electromagnetic force characteristics, rotating characteristics of rotating motor motors, and their interactions at the no-load rated speed and operating speed range. The structural characteristics are accurately reflected by developing a three-dimensional (3D) finite element model considering the entire components of the motor. The reliability of the 3D finite element model of the motor is verified using the impact hammer test. In addition, to consider the rotational characteristics of the rotor structure, we develop a flexible multibody dynamics model that connects the flexible rotor and the bearing with revolute joint. The vibration of the motor at the no-load rated speed is analyzed using flexible multibody dynamics-electromagnetic-structural vibration coupled analysis. Comparing the vibration test results, it is confirmed that the flexible multibody dynamics-electromagnetic-structural vibration coupled analysis result predicts the actual motor vibration more accurately than the conventional finite element analysis-based electromagnetic-structural vibration coupled analysis result. By using flexible multibody dynamics-electromagnetic-structural vibration coupled analysis in the operating speed range, it is confirmed that not only electromagnetic force harmonics but also sideband harmonics caused by rotor eccentricity-induced large vibrations, and also confirmed that it accurately predicts the vibration characteristics of actual motors with rotating rotors.
The Effects of Government Spending in the Eurozone
Authors: Gabriel Ricardo Duque , Klein Mathias , Pessoa Ana Sofia
Published: February 2023

Using a newly assembled rich dataset at the regional level, this paper provides novel empirical evidence on the effects of fiscal policy in the Eurozone. Our baseline estimates reveal a government spending relative output multiplier around 2, an employment multiplier of 1.4, and a cost per job created of approximately €30,000. Moreover, we find that a regional fiscal stimulus leads to a significant increase in private investment, productivity, and durable consumption. The labor share also increases, as do total hours worked driven by changes in the extensive margin (total employment), whereas the intensive margin (hours per worker) barely reacts. Contrary to the common policy narrative of strong positive spillover effects, we estimate only small regional fiscal spillovers. Finally, our findings reveal strong heterogeneities across economic sectors, states of the economy, and member states.
Effects of Taurine as Dietary Supplement on the Biological and Demographic Parameters ofNezara viridula(Heteroptera: Pentatomidae)
Authors: Rojas M Guadalupe , Morales-Ramos Juan A
Published: February 2023

The southern green stink bug, Nezara viridula (L.) (Heteroptera: Pentatomidae), is a widely distributed pest of many economically important crops. Because of its economic impact, multiple examples of rearing methods and diets for N. viridula have been published. However, rearing this pest year-round consistently in all-vegetable diets has been challenging. Preliminary observations have shown that supplementing N. viridula diet with insect components improves the survival and reproduction of this insect. We hypothesized that taurine could be the nutrient present in insect components that was providing the benefits. Treatments consisting of three different watering regimes: 1) Reverse osmosis (RO) water only (W), 2) 2% taurine solution only (T), and 3) a choice between RO water and 2% taurine solution (T&W) were compared for their effects on life cycle and demographic parameters of N. viridula. Both taurine-containing treatments (T and T&W) resulted in a significant increase in nymphal and premating adult survival and egg viability as compared with treatment ‘W’. Taurine supplementation did not have significant effect on fecundity and development time significantly increased in the ‘T’ treatment compared with W and W&T treatments. However, there were significant improvements in demographic parameters showing an increase in fitness levels after taurine supplementation. These results suggest that taurine is an important nutrient for N. viridula, which has been deficient in traditional diets consisting exclusively of vegetable components. Adoption of this new information will help to improve the survival of N. viridula in culture to facilitate this study to develop new methods for its control.
Odorant-binding Protein 10 From Bradysia odoriphaga (Diptera: Sciaridae) Binds Volatile Host Plant Compounds
Authors: Zhu Jiaqi , Wang Fu , Zhang Youjun , Yang Yuting , Hua Dengke
Published: February 2023

Bradysia odoriphaga (Diptera: Sciaridae) is a major insect pest of seven plant families including 30 commercial crops in Asia. The long-term use of chemical pesticides leads to problems such as insect resistance, environmental issues, and food contamination. Against this background, a novel pest control method should be developed. In insects, odorant-binding proteins (OBPs) transport odor molecules, including pheromones and plant volatiles, to olfactory receptors. Here, we expressed and characterized the recombinant B. odoriphaga OBP BodoOBP10, observing that it could bind the sulfur-containing compounds diallyl disulfide and methyl allyl disulfide with Ki values of 8.01 μM and 7.00 μM, respectively. Homology modeling showed that the BodoOBP10 3D structure was similar to that of a typical OBP. Both diallyl disulfide and methyl allyl disulfide bound to the same site on BodoOBP10, mediated by interactions with six hydrophobic residues Met70, Ile75, Thr89, Met90, Leu93, and Leu94, and one aromatic residue, Phe143. Furthermore, silencing BodoOBP10 expression via RNAi significantly reduced the electroantennogram (EAG) response to diallyl disulfide and methyl allyl disulfide. These findings suggest that BodoOBP10 should be involved in the recognition and localization of host plants.
Trans-epithelial migration is essential for neutrophil activation during RSV infection
Authors: Robinson Elisabeth , Herbert Jenny Amanda , Palor Machaela , Ren Luo , Larken Isobel , Patel Alisha , Moulding Dale , Cortina-Borja Mario , Smyth Rosalind Louise , Smith Claire Mary
Published: February 2023

The recruitment of neutrophils to the infected airway occurs early following respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection, and high numbers of activated neutrophils in the airway and blood are associated with the development of severe disease. The aim of this study was to investigate whether trans-epithelial migration is sufficient and necessary for neutrophil activation during RSV infection.

Here, we used flow cytometry and novel live-cell fluorescent microscopy to track neutrophil movement during trans-epithelial migration and measure the expression of key activation markers in a human model of RSV infection. We found that when migration occurred, neutrophil expression of CD11b, CD62L, CD64, NE, and MPO increased. However, the same increase did not occur on basolateral neutrophils when neutrophils were prevented from migrating, suggesting that activated neutrophils reverse migrate from the airway to the bloodstream side, as has been suggested by clinical observations. We then combined our findings with the temporal and spatial profiling and suggest 3 initial phases of neutrophil recruitment and behavior in the airways during RSV infection; (1) initial chemotaxis; (2) neutrophil activation and reverse migration; and (3) amplified chemotaxis and clustering, all of which occur within 20 min. This work and the novel outputs could be used to develop therapeutics and provide new insight into how neutrophil activation and a dysregulated neutrophil response to RSV mediates disease severity.
Transient Viral Rebound in Children with Perinatally Acquired HIV-1 Induces a Unique Soluble Immunometabolic Signature Associated with Decreased CD4/CD8 Ratio
Authors: Tarancon-Diez Laura , Peraire Joaquim , Jiménez de Ory Santiago , Guirro Maria , Escosa Luis , Prieto Tato Luis Manuel , Penín Antón María , Piqueras Ana Isabel , Vázquez Pérez Álvaro , Gavilán César , Bustillo-Alonso Matilde , Navarro María Luisa , Viladés Consuelo , Vidal Francesc , Rull Anna , Muñoz-Fernández María Ángeles
Published: February 2023

Background

To determine by multi-omic analysis changes in metabolites, lipids, and proteins as a consequence of transient viral rebound (tVR) in children with perinatally acquired HIV-1 (PHIV).

Methods

Plasma samples from children with PHIV and with tVR (first episode of transient RNA-HIV viral load >20 copies/ml followed by suppression) on the time-point immediately before (pre-tVR) and after (post-tVR) the tVR were assessed. Multi-omic analyses were performed using nLC-Orbitrap, GC-qTOF-MS, and LC-qTOF-MS.

Results

Comparing pre- and post-tVR time-points, HIV-1 children with tVR (n = 5) showed a trend to a decrease in ratio CD4/CD8 (p = 0.08) but no significant differences were observed in plasma metabolites, lipids, or proteins. Post-tVR condition was compared with a reference group of children with PHIV with persistent viral control (n = 9), paired by sex, age, and time under antiretroviral treatment. A total of 10 proteins, 8 metabolites, and 2 lipids showed significant differences (p < 0.05): serotransferrin, clusterin, kininogen-1, succinic acid, threonine, 2-hydroxyisovaleric acid, methionine, 2-hydroxyglutaric, triacylglyceride 50:0 (TG50:0), and diacylglyceride 34:1 (DG34:1) were upregulated while alpha-2-macroglobulin, apolipoprotein A-II, carboxylic ester hydrolase, apolipoprotein D, coagulation factor IX, peptidase inhibitor 16, SAA2-SAA4 readthrough, oleic acid, palmitoleic acid, and D-sucrose downregulated on post-tVR time-point compared to the reference group. Ratio CD4/CD8 correlated with apolipoprotein A-II, DG34:1, and methionine (p = 0.004; ρ = 0.71, p = 0.016; ρ = −0.63; and p = 0.032; ρ = −0.57, respectively). Nadir CD4+ correlated inversely with kininogen-1 (p = 0.022; ρ = −0.60) and positively with D-sucrose (p = 0.001; ρ = 0.77).

Conclusions

tVR followed by suppression implies changes in soluble proteins, lipids, and metabolites that correlate with immunological parameters, mainly ratio CD4/CD8, that decreased after tVR. These distinct soluble biomarkers could be considered potential biomarkers of immune progression.
Short-Term (6 Weeks) Experience of a Modular Workcell for Hemostasis Testing Including an Intelligent Data Manager at a Tertiary Care Hospital
Authors: Lee Hwan Tae , Lee So Young , Seo Ja Young , Ahn Jeong-Yeal
Published: February 2023

Objective

Modular workcells could be a better solution than total laboratory automation (TLA) in hemostasis laboratories. Here, we evaluated the impact of implementing a modular workcell (HemoCell) with an intelligent data management facility (HemoHub).

Methods

We compared the turnaround times (TATs), numbers of rerun samples, and rerun times pre- and postimplementation of the HemoCell at Gil Medical Center. Prothrombin time (PT), activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT), D-dimer, and fibrinogen were evaluated.

Results

The TAT standard deviations (SDs) and maximum TAT values decreased after HemoCell implementation, although the mean TATs for PT, aPTT, and D-dimer were increased. Numbers of rerun samples were increased (18.1/day vs 44.7/day). However, rerun times were reduced, and SDs were decreased during the post-HemoCell period compared with pre-HemoCell. Additionally, technologists needed smaller working space and less labor.

Conclusion

The modular workcell could improve quality and efficiency by providing more consistent TATs and shorter rerun times in the hemostasis laboratory.
Occupational Exposure to Nonionizing Radiation and Risk for Malignancy in Young Adults
Authors: Shapira Shachar , Nitecki Maya , Tzur Dorit , Schwartz Naama , Silverman Barbara G , Zack Oren , Friedensohn-Zuck Limor
Published: February 2023

Introduction

Nonionizing radiation (NIR) is considered “possibly carcinogenic to humans,” and therefore, exposure of young military personnel raises concerns regarding increased risk for cancer. The aim of our study was to compare the cancer incidence in exposed and nonexposed populations in order to gain better understanding of their risk.

Materials and Methods

A longitudinal retrospective cohort study, between 2009 and 2018, was conducted. Israel Defense Forces (IDF) aerial defense units service members, with NIR exposure (range of 2-300 GHz, below the International Commission of Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection guidelines), were compared with a similar sociodemographic group of service members without NIR exposure. Both groups were followed for cancer incidence (all-cause and specific malignancies). Kaplan–Meier analysis of cancer-free survival and univariate and multivariable logistic regressions for possible confounders and risk factors were performed. This analysis was repeated on a matched 1:1 control group.

Results

Exposure and comparison groups included 3,825 and 11,049 individuals, respectively. Forty-one cases diagnosed with cancer were identified during the follow-up time (mean 4.8 [±2.7] years), 13 (0.34%) of which were reported in the exposure group, and 28 (0.25%) were reported in the comparison group. The odds ratio (OR) for cancer incidence in the exposure vs. control groups was 1.34 (95%CI, 0.70-2.60), P-value = 0.3807. The results remained unchanged after adjustment for sex, age at enrollment, service length, socioeconomic status, and military occupation (adjOR = 1.38 [95%CI, 0.67-2.82], P = 0.3818).

Conclusions

Our study did not find an increased short-term risk for cancer in young adults exposed to NIR radiation as compared with unexposed young adults.
VFTS 243 as predicted by the BPASS fiducial models
Authors: Stevance H F , Ghodla S , Richards S , Eldridge J J , Briel M M , Tang P
Published: February 2023

The recent discovery of an unambiguous quiescent black hole (BH) and main-sequence O star companion in VFTS 243 opens the door to new constraints on theoretical stellar evolution and population models looking to reproduce the progenitors of BH–BH binaries. Here, we show that the binary population and spectral synthesis fiducial models natively predict VFTS 243-like systems: We find that VFTS 243 likely originated from a binary system in an ∼15 d orbit with primary mass ranging from 40 to 50 $\mathrm{\, M}_\odot$ and secondary star with initial mass of 24–25 $\mathrm{\, M}_\odot$. Additionally, we find that the death of the primary star must have resulted in a low-energy explosion E < 1050 erg. With a uniform prior, we find that the kick velocity of the newborn BH was ≤10 $\, \text{km s}^{-1}$. The very low eccentricity reported for VFTS 243 and the subsequent conclusion by the authors that the supernova kick must have been very small are in line with the peak in the posterior distribution between 0 and 5 $\, \text{km s}^{-1}$ found from our numerical simulations performed with a uniform prior. Finally, the reduced Hobbs kick distribution commonly used in BH population synthesis is strongly disfavoured.
Multimessenger emission from tidal waves in neutron star oceans
Authors: Sullivan Andrew G , Alves Lucas M B , Spence Georgina O , Leite Isabella P , Veske Doğa , Bartos Imre , Márka Zsuzsa , Márka Szabolcs
Published: February 2023

Neutron stars in astrophysical binary systems represent exciting sources for multimessenger astrophysics. A potential source of electromagnetic transients from compact binary systems is the neutron star ocean, the external fluid layer encasing a neutron star. We present a groundwork study into tidal waves in neutron star oceans and their consequences. Specifically, we investigate how oscillation modes in neutron star oceans can be tidally excited during compact binary inspirals and parabolic encounters. We find that neutron star oceans can sustain tidal waves with frequencies between 0.01 and 20 Hz. Our results suggest that tidally resonant neutron star ocean waves may serve as a never-before studied source of precursor electromagnetic emission prior to neutron star–black hole and binary neutron star mergers. If accompanied by electromagnetic flares, tidally resonant neutron star ocean waves, whose energy budget can reach 1046 erg, may serve as early warning signs (≳1 min before merger) for compact binary mergers. Similarly, excited ocean tidal waves will coincide with neutron star parabolic encounters. Depending on the neutron star ocean model and a flare emission scenario, tidally resonant ocean flares may be detectable by Fermi and Nuclear Spectroscopic Telescope Array (NuSTAR) out to ≳100 Mpc with detection rates as high as ∼7 yr−1 for binary neutron stars and ∼0.6 yr−1 for neutron star–black hole binaries. Observations of emission from neutron star ocean tidal waves along with gravitational waves will provide insight into the equation of state at the neutron star surface, the composition of neutron star oceans and crusts, and neutron star geophysics.
Continuous gravitational wave detection to understand the generation mechanism of fast radio bursts
Authors: Kalita Surajit , Weltman Amanda
Published: February 2023

Since the unexpected discovery of fast radio bursts (FRBs), researchers have proposed varied theories and models to explain these phenomena. One such model that has recently been developed incorporates the so-called Gertsenshtein–Zel’dovich (GZ) effect, which states that when gravitational waves traverse a pulsar magnetosphere, a portion of the gravitational radiation is transformed into electromagnetic (EM) radiation. The observed properties of FRBs are consistent with the properties of this EM radiation, implying, remarkably, that the GZ effect can account for both repeating and non-repeating FRBs. If this model is correct, the pulsar’s properties should not change over time, and it would continue to emit both EM dipole and gravitational quadrupole radiation for a long period of time. This article targets the gravitational radiation produced by the pulsar mechanism and shows that several proposed gravitational wave detectors can detect these gravitational waves. If such detections are performed in the future from the location of FRBs, it might validate the GZ process for FRB production and potentially rule out several other theories of FRB generation.
Strong, Recent Selective Sweeps Reshape Genetic Diversity in Freshwater BivalveMegalonaias nervosa
Authors: Rogers Rebekah L , Grizzard Stephanie L , Garner Jeffrey T
Published: February 2023

Freshwater Unionid bivalves have recently faced ecological upheaval through pollution, barriers to dispersal, harvesting, and changes in fish–host prevalence. Currently, over 70% of species in North America are threatened, endangered or extinct. To characterize the genetic response to recent selective pressures, we collected population genetic data for one successful bivalve species, Megalonaias nervosa. We identify megabase-sized regions that are nearly monomorphic across the population, signals of strong, recent selection reshaping diversity across 73 Mb total. These signatures of selection are greater than is commonly seen in population genetic models. We observe 102 duplicate genes with high dN/dS on terminal branches among regions with sweeps, suggesting that gene duplication is a causative mechanism of recent adaptation in M. nervosa. Genes in sweeps reflect functional classes important for Unionid survival, including anticoagulation genes important for fish host parasitization, detox genes, mitochondria management, and shell formation. We identify sweeps in regions with no known functional impacts, suggesting mechanisms of adaptation that deserve greater attention in future work on species survival. In contrast, polymorphic transposable elements (TEs) appear to be detrimental and underrepresented among regions with sweeps. TE site frequency spectra are skewed toward singleton variants, and TEs among regions with sweeps are present at low frequency. Our work suggests that duplicate genes are an essential source of genetic novelty that has helped this species succeed in environments where others have struggled. These results suggest that gene duplications deserve greater attention in non-model population genomics, especially in species that have recently faced sudden environmental challenges.
How SMT Could Become More Welcoming
Authors: Manabe Noriko
Published: February 2023

Continuing Stephen Lett’s (2023) argument that pedagogy was undervalued by SMT at its inception, this essay considers the signs and implications of continued marginalization of teaching. While position statements can influence the atmosphere of a society, they are peripheral to its operations, which determine who is included or excluded. SMT could help expand the pipeline for women and minoritized groups and identities by formulating and reinforcing ethical guidelines, not just at SMT events but in the music theory profession as a whole. A set of questions is provided for assessing the potential for harmful behaviors in institutional gatekeeping, from teaching to graduate admissions and programs, faculty searches, and tenure and promotion. Deeper engagement by SMT and its membership—through the formation of guidelines for searches and tenure processes, the formation of an ethics committee tasked with review and adjudication, and mentorship for job candidates and junior faculty—should help to broaden the demographics.