bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Energy security and its determinants in New Zealand
Authors: Solaymani Saeed
Published: August 2024

New Zealand relies on imported fossil fuels for about 38% of its primary energy. The country’s energy demand is expected to grow due to population and economic growth, which will put more pressure on the energy system. Besides, resource scarcity, energy price volatility, and environmental challenges have made energy security a major concern for New Zealand and other countries. Given the lack of significant research on the effects of energy security factors in New Zealand, this study aims to shed light on the primary determinants of energy security using the dynamic autoregressive distributed lag method based on time series data from 1978 to 2021. The study found that a long-run link exists between energy security and energy intensity (energy efficiency), renewable energy use, fossil fuel consumption, and global oil prices. Real GDP, renewable energy consumption, and energy security were found to improve energy security, while fossil fuel consumption and world oil prices had a negative impact. The study also revealed a one-way causality from real GDP, fossil fuel consumption, and renewable energy use to energy security. In contrast, the relationship between energy intensity and energy security is bidirectional. Simulation results showed that global crude oil prices have a lower impact on energy security compared to other variables and are most responsive to a 5% shock in fossil fuel consumption, followed by economic growth.
A comparative study of worm-sludge treatment reed bed planted with Phragmites australis and Arundo donax in the Mediterranean region
Authors: Gholipour Amir , Fragoso Rita , Galvão Ana , Duarte Elizabeth
Published: August 2024

Sludge treatment reed bed planted (STRB) with Phragmites australis (P.australis) and Arundo donax (A.donax) was assessed in the presence of Eisenia fetida under control condition during the dry season. Worm-planted units were fed with mixed sewage sludge (dry and volatile solids of 29.44 g DS.L−1 and 24.23 g VS.L−1). Sludge loading rates (SLR) of 50, 60, and 70 kg DS m−2 year−1 were examined to assess dewatering efficiency. Surface layers in units with P.australis and A.donax achieved DS of 80 and 81% at a loading rate of 50 kg DS m−2 year−1, while their subsurface DS were 41 and 25%, respectively. Units with A.donax experienced plant loss when subjected to SLR exceeding 60 kg DS m−2 year−1. More than 10 cm of residual sludge accumulated on the top of units after a 2-month final rest. Evapotranspiration was greater in the unit with P.australis (5.23 mm day−1) compared to the unit with A.donax (4.24 mm day−1) while both were fed with 70 kg DS m−2 year−1. Water loss contributions from residual sludge layer, drained water, and evapotranspiration were 3, 46, and 51%, respectively. Units with P.australis indicated 20% higher water loss compared to units with A.donax. Although the drained water quality improved over time, it did not meet standard limits. The residual sludge layer contained macro and micronutrients, and heavy metals with a significant elemental order of N > Ca > P > S > mg > K (N:P:K = 31:8:1), Fe > Na > B > Mn > Mo and Zn > Cr > Cu > Pb > Ni > Cd. Overall, STRB could be a sustainable alternative technology to conventional sewage sludge management techniques.

Graphical Abstract
Artificial intelligence methods available for cancer research
Authors: Murmu Ankita , Győrffy Balázs
Published: August 2024

Cancer is a heterogeneous and multifaceted disease with a significant global footprint. Despite substantial technological advancements for battling cancer, early diagnosis and selection of effective treatment remains a challenge. With the convenience of large-scale datasets including multiple levels of data, new bioinformatic tools are needed to transform this wealth of information into clinically useful decision-support tools. In this field, artificial intelligence (AI) technologies with their highly diverse applications are rapidly gaining ground. Machine learning methods, such as Bayesian networks, support vector machines, decision trees, random forests, gradient boosting, and K-nearest neighbors, including neural network models like deep learning, have proven valuable in predictive, prognostic, and diagnostic studies. Researchers have recently employed large language models to tackle new dimensions of problems. However, leveraging the opportunity to utilize AI in clinical settings will require surpassing significant obstacles—a major issue is the lack of use of the available reporting guidelines obstructing the reproducibility of published studies. In this review, we discuss the applications of AI methods and explore their benefits and limitations. We summarize the available guidelines for AI in healthcare and highlight the potential role and impact of AI models on future directions in cancer research.
Timed Thermodynamic Process Model Applied to Submerged Arc Welding Modified by Aluminium-Assisted Metal Powder Alloying
Authors: Coetsee Theresa , De Bruin Frederik Johannes
Published: August 2024

An EERZ (effective equilibrium reaction zone) model was applied to the modified SAW (submerged arc welding) process to simulate the SAW process metallurgy in the gas-slag-metal reaction system. The SAW process was modified by adding Al as a de-oxidizer with alloying metal powders of Cr, Cu, and Ti. The static gas-slag-metal equilibrium model can accurately calculate the weld metal oxygen content (ppm O) for conventional SAW but not for the modified SAW process. The static equilibrium model overpredicts the reaction of Al. EERZ model runs were made for 2000–2500°C because this is the reported temperature range in the SAW arc cavity. The weld metal composition was adequately calculated, especially the weld metal ppm O, at the following effective equilibrium temperatures: 2400°C for Al-Cr additions, 2200°C for Al-Cr-Cu additions, and 2000°C for Al-Cr-Cu-Ti additions. Model results show that Ti metal powder can serve a de-oxidizer role in the presence of Al, resulting in Ti loss to the slag. Ti is also lost to the gas phase as TiF3(g) and TiF2(g) compared to little loss of Cr to the gas phase as Cr(g) and CrO to the slag phase.
Proton Therapy in The Treatment of Head And Neck Cancers- Review
Authors: Bała Kamila , Samovich Yana , Dorobisz Karolina
Published: August 2024

Purpose of Review

Head and neck cancers rank as the seventh most common cancer worldwide, nearly half of which result in death. The most common treatment methods for head and neck cancers include radiotherapy and surgery. Proton therapy has emerged in radiotherapy for cases where tumors are located near anatomically sensitive areas where the radiation dose must be strictly limited. The purpose of the work is to discuss the role of the proton therapy in the treatment in various types of cancer, and particularly head and neck tumors.

Recent Findings

Proton therapy allows for the delivery of radiation doses to critical organs to be reduced, resulting in a decrease in the occurrence of late adverse effects on these organs. The occurrence of side effects caused by proton therapy depends on the relative and absolute volume of organs at risk receiving specific radiation doses.

Proton therapy represents a promising alternative to conventional radiotherapy due to the reduced number of complications in healthy tissues by delivering a lower radiation dose outside the tumor area.
Effects of Aging on Intrinsic Protein Disorder in Human Lenses and Zonules
Authors: Antonietti Michael , Kim Colin K. , Djulbegovic Mak B. , Gonzalez David J. Taylor , Greenfield Jason A. , Uversky Vladimir N. , Gibbons Allister G. , Karp Carol L.
Published: August 2024

This study aims to compare the levels of intrinsic protein disorder within the human lens and zonule proteomes and investigate the role of aging as a potential influencing factor on disorder levels. A cross-sectional proteomic analysis was employed, utilizing a dataset of 1466 proteins derived from the lens and zonule proteomes previously published by Wang et al. and De Maria et al. Bioinformatics tools, including a composition profiler and a rapid intrinsic disorder analysis online tool, were used to conduct a comparative analysis of protein disorder. Statistical tests such as ANOVA, Tukey’s HSD, and chi-squared tests were applied to evaluate differences between groups. The study revealed distinct amino acid compositions for each proteome, showing a direct correlation between aging and increased protein disorder in the zonular proteomes, whereas the lens proteomes exhibited the opposite trend. Findings suggest that age-related changes in intrinsic protein disorder within the lens and zonule proteomes may be linked to structural transformations in these tissues. Understanding how protein disorder evolves with age could enhance knowledge of the molecular basis for age-related conditions such as cataracts and pseudoexfoliation, potentially leading to better therapeutic strategies.
Three Takes on Mad Hazard: The “Classics” as a Life Project, The Historiography of Sociology and its Methods, and the Democratic Rule of Law
Authors: Laiz Álvaro Morcillo
Published: August 2024

In this contribution I turn Mad Hazard into a source of evidence for two types of experiences familiar to those on the margins of academia. The first type of experience is that those at the top of the academic ladder and their pawns, use peer review not to improve submissions but to fence off rival interpretations of highly valued authors and ideas. The second experience illustrates how academic elites ignore uncomfortable questions about the ways in which they became elites, especially about the role of funders in doing so. In addition to recounting these two experiences, I also draw on Mad Hazard to venture a brief foray into the complex question of how an author’s persona can affect his or her work, and more specifically, how this author, Turner, conducts conceptual analysis. I conclude on a more personal note, suggesting further topics for Stephen’s next memoir.
Exceptional point enhanced nanoparticle detection in deformed Reuleaux-triangle microcavity
Authors: Fei Jinhao , Zhang Xiaobei , Zhang Qi , Yang Yong , Wang Zijie , Deng Chuanlu , Huang Yi , Wang Tingyun
Published: August 2024

In this paper, we propose a deformed Reuleaux-triangle resonator (RTR) to form exceptional point (EP) which results in the detection sensitivity enhancement of nanoparticle. After introducing single nanoparticle to the deformed RTR at EP, frequency splitting obtains an enhancement of more than 6 times compared with non-deformed RTR. In addition, EP induced a result that the far field pattern of chiral mode responses significantly to external perturbation, corresponding to the change in internal chirality. Therefore, single nanoparticle with far distance of more than 4000 nm can be detected by measuring the variation of far field directional emission. Compared to traditional frequency splitting, the far field pattern produced in deformed RTR provides a cost-effective and convenient path to detect single nanoparticle at a long distance, without using tunable laser and external coupler. Our structure indicates great potential in high sensitivity sensor and label-free detector.

Graphical Abstract
Boosting the Oxygen Reduction Performance of Fe–N–C Catalyst Using Zeolite as an Oxygen Reservoir
Authors: Liu Weihao , Liu Qingtao , Wan Xin , Shui Jianglan
Published: August 2024

Non-precious metal electrocatalysts (such as Fe–N–C materials) for the oxygen (O2) reduction reaction demand a high catalyst loading in fuel cell devices to achieve workable performance. However, the extremely low solubility of O2 in water creates severe mass transport resistance in the thick catalyst layer of Fe–N–C catalysts. Here, we introduce silicalite-1 nanocrystals with hydrophobic cavities as sustainable O2 reservoirs to overcome the mass transport issue of Fe–N–C catalysts. The extra O2 supply to the adjacent catalysts significantly alleviated the negative effects of the severe mass transport resistance. The hybrid catalyst (Fe–N–C@silicalite-1) achieved a higher limiting current density than Fe–N–C in the half-cell test. In the H2–O2 and H2–air proton exchange membrane fuel cells, Fe–N–C@silicalite-1 exhibited a 16.3% and 20.2% increase in peak power density compared with Fe–N–C, respectively. The O2-concentrating additive provides an effective approach for improving the mass transport imposed by the low solubility of O2 in water.
The Curious Ethnobotany of Alice Duncan-Kemp
Authors: Silcock Jennifer
Published: August 2024

Where rapid and violent colonization disrupted ancient lifeways, ethnographic sources can be used to reconstruct aspects of traditional life including ethnobotany. Such reconstructions can help connect people with their ancestral homelands and cultures and inform emerging native food and medicine ventures. Alice Duncan-Kemp sits within a small canon of white women writers who lived among Aboriginal people on the Australian pastoral frontier. Young Alice was cared for and taught by Mithaka and Karuwali people and recorded detailed ethnographic information. Her record is singular and intriguing but unscientific, difficult to verify and in some parts plagued by unacknowledged borrowing from other sources. Here I collate Alice Duncan-Kemp’s ethnobotanical writings from published and unpublished sources and attempt to identify taxa referenced through comparison with ethnobotanical sources from neighbouring areas and extensive field work. Alice Duncan-Kemp’s 885 ethnobotanical observations can be matched to 218 taxa or groups of taxa. They contain novel ethnobotanical information for over half of these plants and previously unrecorded names for around 150. Plants used for food and materials are broadly similar to other areas of the Australian arid zone; however, Alice Duncan-Kemp’s writings contain extensive novel and place-specific information on medicinal, indicator and ceremonial or mythological aspects of ethnobotany. A small portion of her writings, particularly in her later books, appears to have been borrowed from other sources and a couple of plants described do not occur in south-west Queensland. However, most of her ethnobotanical record appears to be a unique, detailed, and accurate account of human-plant relations in the Channel Country and contributes greatly to Mithaka ethnobotanical reconstructions and Australian ethnobotany more broadly.
Kirschner wire vs screw osteosynthesis of lateral condyle fractures in paediatric patients: a systematic review
Authors: Mostofi Zadeh Haghighi D. L. , Xu J. , Campbell R. , Moopanar T. R.
Published: August 2024

This systematic review compares Kirschner wires versus a single cannulated screw for the treatment of lateral humeral condyle fractures in children. The purpose of this review is to review the current literature on fixation of lateral condyle fractures of the humerus, and to ascertain whether there is a difference in clinical outcomes of these fractures when fixated with K-wires vs screws. This systematic review of the literature comparing surgical management of paediatric (0–17 years of age) lateral condyle fractures with K-wire versus screw fixation was performed using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Electronic searches of three databases from inception to March 2022 yielded 17 studies which satisfied inclusion criteria, comprising 1,272 patients with a median age of 8.5 years. Eight hundred and fifty-five (67.2%) patients underwent K-wire fixation and 417 (32.8%) underwent screw fixation. Results were divided into comparative and single-arm studies. The median follow-up time was 23.3 months (range 3 months–22 years). A lateral prominence was observed in 114 (13.3%) patients with K-wires and 41 (9.8%) patients with a cannulated screw. An infection developed in 52 (6.1%) patients with K-wires, while only five (1.2%) patients with a screw developed an infection. A carrying angle deformity occurred in 61 (7.1%) patients with K-wires and seven (1.7%) patients with a screw. K-wires and cannulated screws are effective and safe methods of fixation for lateral humeral condyle fractures in children. K-wire fixation may have a greater incidence of infection but allows for safe non-operative removal and versatility with fractures of greater comminution, while screw fixation necessitates a second operation for removal following union.

Level of Evidence III Systematic review.
Key summary of German national guideline for adult patients with nosocomial pneumonia- Update 2024 Funding number at the Federal Joint Committee (G-BA): 01VSF22007
Authors: Rademacher Jessica , Ewig Santiago , Grabein Béatrice , Nachtigall Irit , Abele-Horn Marianne , Deja Maria , Gaßner Martina , Gatermann Sören , Geffers Christine , Gerlach Herwig , Hagel Stefan , Heußel Claus Peter , Kluge Stefan , Kolditz Martin , Kramme Evelyn , Kühl Hilmar , Panning Marcus , Rath Peter-Michael , Rohde Gernot , Schaaf Bernhard , Salzer Helmut J. F. , Schreiter Dierk , Schweisfurth Hans , Unverzagt Susanne , Weigand Markus A. , Welte Tobias , Pletz Mathias W.
Published: August 2024

Purpose

This executive summary of a German national guideline aims to provide the most relevant evidence-based recommendations on the diagnosis and treatment of nosocomial pneumonia.

Methods

The guideline made use of a systematic assessment and decision process using evidence to decision framework (GRADE). Recommendations were consented by an interdisciplinary panel. Evidence analysis and interpretation was supported by the German innovation fund providing extensive literature searches and (meta-) analyses by an independent methodologist. For this executive summary, selected key recommendations are presented including the quality of evidence and rationale for the level of recommendation.

Results

The original guideline contains 26 recommendations for the diagnosis and treatment of adults with nosocomial pneumonia, thirteen of which are based on systematic review and/or meta-analysis, while the other 13 represent consensus expert opinion. For this key summary, we present 11 most relevant for everyday clinical practice key recommendations with evidence overview and rationale, of which two are expert consensus and 9 evidence-based (4 strong, 5 weak and 2 open recommendations). For the management of nosocomial pneumonia patients should be divided in those with and without risk factors for multidrug-resistant pathogens and/or Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Bacterial multiplex-polymerase chain reaction (PCR) should not be used routinely. Bronchoscopic diagnosis is not considered superior to´non-bronchoscopic sampling in terms of main outcomes. Only patients with septic shock and the presence of an additional risk factor for multidrug-resistant pathogens (MDRP) should receive empiric combination therapy. In clinically stabilized patients, antibiotic therapy should be de-escalated and focused. In critically ill patients, prolonged application of suitable beta-lactam antibiotics should be preferred. Therapy duration is suggested for 7–8 days. Procalcitonin (PCT) based algorithm might be used to shorten the duration of antibiotic treatment. Patients on the intensive care unit (ICU) are at risk for invasive pulmonary aspergillosis (IPA). Diagnostics for Aspergillus should be performed with an antigen test from bronchial lavage fluid.

Conclusion

The current guideline focuses on German epidemiology and standards of care. It should be a guide for the current treatment and management of nosocomial pneumonia in Germany.
Enhancing Dynamic Shear Resistance and Efficient Micro-Void Reduction of Expansive Soil Using Activated Nano-Desilicated Fly Ash
Authors: Aneke Ikechukwu Frank , Shamshad Ali , Denis Kalumba , Siddiqua Sumi
Published: August 2024

Excessive swelling and high compressibility of soil have posed countless challenges such as poor dynamic shear strength for engineers dealing with cyclic loading in pavement structure. To address this challenge, the durability and mechanical properties of the investigated subgrade were treated with 10%, 20%, and 30% of activated nano-disilicate fly ash (NDFA) to the dry mass of the subgrade soil. A series of swelling pressure tests, One-dimensional compression tests, and dynamic triaxial (DT) tests were conducted on the samples fabricated using altered moisture content. The findings demonstrated that the swelling pressure and compressibility of the NDFA-treated specimens significantly decreased to an average of 15.3% and 18.4% respectively upon 20% inclusion of NDFA beyond which the swelling stress and compressibility values further decreased signifying the impact of NDFA on the expansive subgrade. The consolidation results also revealed that the treated soil’s consolidation parameters greatly decreased compared to the untreated soil with a high void ratio and compression index ($${C}_{c}$$

C
c

). The dynamic shear resistance of the subgrade soil increased by 36% upon the addition of 10% NDFA content compared to the untreated soil which portrayed a very low resistance against dynamic shear modulus ($${G}_{max}$$

G

max

) with a corresponding high damping ratio. The investigation revealed a strong correlation between $${C}_{c}$$

C
c

and dynamic shear modulus which is closely correlated to a coefficient determination of 0.99 due to the parameter’s dependency on porosity, particle shape, and stiffness.
Least angle regression in tangent space and LASSO for generalized linear models
Authors: Hirose Yoshihiro
Published: August 2024

This study proposes sparse estimation methods for the generalized linear models, which run one of least angle regression (LARS) and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) in the tangent space of the manifold of the statistical model. This study approximates the statistical model and subsequently uses exact calculations. LARS was proposed as an efficient algorithm for parameter estimation and variable selection for the normal linear model. The LARS algorithm is described in terms of Euclidean geometry regarding the correlation as the metric of the parameter space. Since the LARS algorithm only works in Euclidean space, we transform a manifold of the statistical model into the tangent space at the origin. In the generalized linear regression, this transformation allows us to run the original LARS algorithm for the generalized linear models. The proposed methods are efficient and perform well. Real-data analysis indicates that the proposed methods output similar results to that of the

$$l_1$$

l
1

-regularized maximum likelihood estimation for the aforementioned models. Numerical experiments reveal that our methods work well and they may be better than the

$$l_1$$

l
1

-regularization in generalization, parameter estimation, and model selection.
On hyperplane sections and projections in $$l_p^n$$
Authors: König Hermann
Published: August 2024

For $$2< p < p_0 \simeq 26.265$$

2
<
p
<

p
0

≃
26.265

, the hyperplane section of the $$l_p^n$$

l
p
n

-unit ball $$B_p^n$$

B
p
n

perpendicular to $$a^{(n)} = \frac{1}{\sqrt{n}} (1 ,\ldots ,1)$$

a

(
n
)

=

1

n

(
1
,
…
,
1
)

for large n has larger volume than the one orthogonal to $$a^{(2)} = \frac{1}{\sqrt{2}} (1,1,0 ,\ldots ,0)$$

a

(
2
)

=

1

2

(
1
,
1
,
0
,
…
,
0
)

, as shown by Oleszkiewicz. This is different from the case of $$l_\infty ^n$$

l
∞
n

considered by Ball. We give a quantitative estimate for which dimensions n this happens, namely for $$n > c (\frac{1}{p_0-p} + \frac{1}{p-2})$$

n
>
c
(

1

p
0

-
p

+

1

p
-
2

)

for some absolute constant $$c>0$$

c
>
0

. Correspondingly for projections of $$B_q^n$$

B
q
n

onto hyperplanes, Barthe and Naor showed that projections onto hyperplanes perpendicular to $$a^{(n)}$$

a

(
n
)

have smaller volume for large n than onto the one orthogonal to $$a^{(2)}$$

a

(
2
)

, if $$\frac{4}{3}< q < 2$$

4
3

<
q
<
2

, different from the case $$q=1$$

q
=
1

. We show that this happens for all $$n > 5 (\frac{1}{q-\frac{4}{3}} + \frac{1}{2-q})$$

n
>
5
(

1

q
-

4
3

+

1

2
-
q

)

.
The COVID-19 infodemic as a major driver for vaccine hesitancy in conflict settings: a mixed-method study
Authors: Ahmed Asmaa , Al-Aghbari Ahmed Asa’ad , Hassan Ola El-Hajj , McGowan Maureen , Al-Qadasi Yasameen , Dureab Fekri
Published: August 2024

Since COVID-19 emerged in China, social media has spread fake news and conspiracy theories faster than the virus, causing the population to take false actions and follow misleading information, which leads to hospitalization, and even deaths, especially in conflict settings. Therefore, efforts to address health misinformation on social media have become urgent. For these reasons, we monitored social media following the vaccine rollout in Yemen and assessed the impact of the infodemic on the population's vaccine hesitancy in Yemen. To triangulate our data, we executed a mixed method approach in which qualitative data via online social listening was gathered using the WHO Early AI-supported Response with Social Listening (EARS) platform, and then complemented and verified with a Knowledge, Attitude and Practices (KAP) survey. Our results showed that social media in Yemen were exhibited contradictory facts and information gaps about the COVID-19 vaccine. The unaddressed questions and concerns on Facebook and Twitter have been filled with all types of misinformation, including rumors and conspiracy theories about the vaccine. Furthermore, the government's weak Risk Communication and Community Engagement (RCCE) have caused an enormous mistrust in its public health actions and stimulated negative behaviours towards the COVID-19 vaccine. The online social listening results were complemented with the survey findings as one third (38%) of the respondents admitted that COVID-19 vaccine misinformation affected their health decisions and almost two-third (61%) showed unwillingness to take the COVID-19 vaccine which clearly demonstrate the Yemenis hesitation in making health decisions including vaccine uptake. Our study highlights the importance of strengthening health communication and infodemic management to mitigate vaccine hesitancy and increase public confidence in the COVID-19 vaccine.
Evaluation of the antibacterial properties of commonly used clays from deposits in central and southern Asia
Authors: Abdullayev Elshan , Paterson Joy R. , Kuszynski Eleanor P. , Hamidi M. Daud , Nahar Papreen , Greenwell H. Chris , Neumann Anke , Sharples Gary J.
Published: August 2024

One potential solution to the rising threat of antibacterial drug resistance is the application of therapeutic clays to treat wound infections. Clays with antibacterial activity have been identified from a range of sources with their antibacterial properties often attributed to the release of toxic metal ions such as Fe(II) and Al(III). Here, clays from Afghanistan, Azerbaijan and Bangladesh that are utilized for washing and healing purposes were examined. Their antibacterial activities were assessed in suspension and as aqueous leachates against representative Gram-negative, Escherichia coli, and Gram-positive, Bacillus subtilis, bacteria. The majority of the clays conferred no deleterious effect and, in fact, tended to promote bacterial growth, likely as a result of released organic and inorganic nutrients. However, one of the clays, obtained from the Dhaka region of Bangladesh, displayed significant bactericidal activity against E. coli and B. subtilis as a clay suspension but not as an aqueous leachate. Further experiments confirmed that contact between clay and the bacteria was necessary for most of the antibacterial effects. Detailed analysis of bulk and <2 μm clay fraction mineralogy and geochemistry revealed no single defining parameter or mineral component that could be used to easily distinguish natural clays with antibacterial properties from those without. Overall, the results suggest a mechanism of antibacterial action of the Dhaka clay that arises from acidic conditions, likely enabled by the absence of calcite in the bulk clay, metal release, the presence of interstratified chlorite-smectite, and direct clay–bacteria interactions.
On Political Misogyny
Authors: DOVI SUZANNE
Published: August 2024

Many political scientists hold that vitriolic speech against high-profile women has only negligible effects on other women in politics. They also contend that the prevalence of such vitriol is consistent with gender bias having no significant negative impact on most women in politics. This article argues that these sanguine positions rest on inadequate and untested assumptions regarding misogyny, and the role it plays in politics. In the service of putting us in a position to test the relationship between gendered discourse in particular elections and the structural obstacles faced by women in politics, this article develops a conceptualization of political misogyny: nasty claim-making that instills repugnant connotations into women’s collective political identities (e.g., their partisan identities). Attention is also paid to how political misogyny can distribute hatred burdens disproportionately among different groups of women.
Calibrating Tropical Forest Coexistence in Ecosystem Demography Models Using Multi‐Objective Optimization Through Population‐Based Parallel Surrogate Search
Authors: Cheng Yanyan , Wang Wenyu , Detto Matteo , Fisher Rosie , Shoemaker Christine
Published: August 2024

Tropical forest diversity governs forest structures, compositions, and influences the ecosystem response to environmental changes. Better representation of forest diversity in ecosystem demography (ED) models within Earth system models is thus necessary to accurately capture and predict how tropical forests affect Earth system dynamics subject to climate changes. However, achieving forest coexistence in ED models is challenging due to their computational expense and limited understanding of the mechanisms governing forest functional diversity. This study applies the advanced Multi‐Objective Population‐based Parallel Local Surrogate‐assisted search (MOPLS) optimization algorithm to simultaneously calibrate ecosystem fluxes and coexistence of two physiologically distinct tropical forest species in a size‐ and age‐structured ED model with realistic representation of wood harvest. MOPLS exhibits satisfactory model performance, capturing hydrological and biogeochemical dynamics observed in Barro Colorado Island, Panama, and robustly achieving coexistence for the two representative forest species. This demonstrates its effectiveness in calibrating tropical forest coexistence. The optimal solution is applied to investigate the recovery trajectories of forest biomass after various intensities of clear‐cut deforestation. We find that a 20% selective logging can take approximately 40 years for aboveground biomass to return to the initial level. This is due to the slow recovery rate of late successional trees, which only increases by 4% over the 40‐year period. This study lays the foundation to calibrate coexistence in ED models. MOPLS can be an effective tool to help better represent tropical forest diversity in Earth system models and inform forest management practices.
Global Thermospheric Infrared Response to the Mother's Day Weekend Extreme Storm of 2024
Authors: Mlynczak Martin G. , Hunt Linda A. , Nowak Nabil , Marshall B. Thomas , Mertens Christopher J.
Published: August 2024

Earth experienced the strongest geomagnetic storm in 20 years over 10–13 May 2024. The Ap and Dst geomagnetic indices were 273 and −291.94 nT on 11 May. The Sounding of the Atmosphere using Broadband Emission Radiometry (SABER) instrument on the Thermosphere‐Ionosphere‐Mesosphere Energetics and Dynamics satellite observed significant enhancement in thermospheric infrared emission at 15, 5.3, 4.3, and 1.27 μm. On 11 May the daily global power radiated by nitric oxide (NO) at 5.3 μm was 1.41 TW and by carbon dioxide (CO2) at 15 μm was 1.35 TW. These are the largest single day power values observed by SABER in 22 years and the first time the daily power radiated by NO exceeded that of CO2. The total infrared power (above background) radiated during the storm was 2.64 TW (2.28 × 1017 J). Significant enhancement in limb radiance observed at 4.3 μm (to 250 km tangent height) is likely indicative of NO + formation during the storm.
Hypocretin in the nucleus accumbens shell modulates social approach in female but not male California mice
Authors: Luo Pei X. , Serna Godoy Alexandra , Zakharenkov Hannah Cortez , Vang Nou , Wright Emily C. , Balantac Taylor A. , Archdeacon Sinéad C. , Black Alexis M. , Lake Alyssa A. , Ramirez Alison V. , Lozier Lauren E. , Perez Melvin D. , Bhangal Irvin , Desta Nile M. , Trainor Brian C.
Published: August 2024

The hypocretin (Hcrt) system modulates arousal and anxiety-related behaviors and has been considered as a novel treatment target for stress-related affective disorders. We examined the effects of Hcrt acting in the nucleus accumbens shell (NAcSh) and anterodorsal bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (adBNST) on social behavior in male and female California mice (Peromyscus californicus). In female but not male California mice, infusion of Hcrt1 into NAcSh decreased social approach. Weak effects of Hcrt1 on social vigilance were observed in both females and males. No behavioral effects of Hcrt1 infused into the adBNST were observed. Analyses of sequencing data from California mice and Mus musculus NAc showed that Hcrtr2 was more abundant than Hcrtr1, so we infused the selective Hcrt receptor 2 antagonist into the NAcSh, which increased social approach in females previously exposed to social defeat. A calcium imaging study in the NAcSh of females before and after stress exposure showed that neural activity increased immediately following the expression of social avoidance but not during freezing behavior. This observation is consistent with previous studies that identified populations of neurons in the NAc that drive avoidance. Intriguingly, calcium transients were not affected by stress. These data suggest that hypocretin acting in the NAcSh plays a key role in modulating stress-induced social avoidance.
Current best practices and future opportunities for reproducible findings using large-scale neuroimaging in psychiatry
Authors: Jahanshad Neda , Lenzini Petra , Bijsterbosch Janine
Published: August 2024

Research into the brain basis of psychopathology is challenging due to the heterogeneity of psychiatric disorders, extensive comorbidities, underdiagnosis or overdiagnosis, multifaceted interactions with genetics and life experiences, and the highly multivariate nature of neural correlates. Therefore, increasingly larger datasets that measure more variables in larger cohorts are needed to gain insights. In this review, we present current “best practice” approaches for using existing databases, collecting and sharing new repositories for big data analyses, and future directions for big data in neuroimaging and psychiatry with an emphasis on contributing to collaborative efforts and the challenges of multi-study data analysis.
Regulation of Zfp36 by ISGF3 and MK2 restricts the expression of inflammatory cytokines during necroptosis stimulation
Authors: Yadav Sahil , El Hamra Rayan , Alturki Norah A. , Ariana Ardeshir , Bhan Avni , Hurley Kate , Gaestel Matthias , Blackshear Perry J. , Blais Alexandre , Sad Subash
Published: August 2024

Necrosome activation following TLR- or cytokine receptor-signaling results in cell death by necroptosis which is characterized by the rupture of cell membranes and the consequent release of intracellular contents to the extracellular milieu. While necroptosis exacerbates various inflammatory diseases, the mechanisms through which the inflammatory responses are regulated are not clear. We show that the necrosome activation of macrophages results in an upregulation of various pathways, including the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) cascade, which results in an elevation of the inflammatory response and consequent expression of several cytokines and chemokines. Programming for this upregulation of inflammatory response occurs during the early phase of necrosome activation and proceeds independently of cell death but depends on the activation of the receptor-interacting protein kinase-1 (RipK1). Interestingly, necrosome activation also results in an upregulation of IFNβ, which in turn exerts an inhibitory effect on the maintenance of inflammatory response through the repression of MAPK-signaling and an upregulation of Zfp36. Activation of the interferon-induced gene factor-3 (ISGF3) results in the expression of ZFP36 (TTP), which induces the post-transcriptional degradation of mRNAs of various inflammatory cytokines and chemokines through the recognition of AU-rich elements in their 3’UTR. Furthermore, ZFP-36 inhibits IFNβ-, but not TNFα- induced necroptosis. Overall, these results reveal the molecular mechanism through which IFNβ, a pro-inflammatory cytokine, induces the expression of ZFP-36, which in turn inhibits necroptosis and halts the maintenance of the inflammatory response.
The histone methyltransferase KMT2D is essential for embryo implantation via regulating precise differentiation of endometrial cells
Authors: Kobayashi Ryosuke , Tajika Yuki , Kohmaru Junki , Morita Sumiyo , Horii Takuro , Mizukami Yoichi , Aikawa Shizu , Hirota Yasushi , Hatada Izuho
Published: August 2024

Embryo implantation failures are a major challenge in reproductive medicine, but the underlying mechanism remains poorly understood. Successful implantation requires dynamic remodeling of the endometrium through integrated proliferation and differentiation of endometrial cells including luminal epithelial, glandular epithelial, and stromal cells. Conversely, their disruption causes infertility. Spatiotemporal control of transcription is required for these processes; however, the underlying epigenetic regulation is largely unknown. In this study, we examined expression data from the human endometrium during implantation and discovered that expression of the histone lysine methyltransferase KMT2D was significantly suppressed in patients with recurrent implantation failure. Further study revealed that uterine deletion of Kmt2d in mice caused infertility due to implantation failure. Morphological analysis discovered a reduction in the number of uterine glands and aberrant differentiation of the luminal and glandular epithelium into stratified phenotypes in Kmt2d knockout uteri. Administration of leukemia inhibitory factor protein, which is expressed in uterine glands and is essential for implantation, did not rescue implantation failure in Kmt2d knockout mice, suggesting that infertility was not solely due to uterine gland dysfunction. RNA sequencing analysis revealed that Kmt2d knockout uteri displayed suppressed expression of genes involved in ion homeostasis, which may affect the uterine luminal morphology. Our study suggests that KMT2D plays an essential role in facilitating successful embryo implantation by regulating the coordinated differentiation of endometrial cells, providing valuable insights into unexplained implantation failures in women.
Disease-relevant upregulation of P2Y1 receptor in astrocytes enhances neuronal excitability via IGFBP2
Authors: Shigetomi Eiji , Suzuki Hideaki , Hirayama Yukiho J. , Sano Fumikazu , Nagai Yuki , Yoshihara Kohei , Koga Keisuke , Tateoka Toru , Yoshioka Hideyuki , Shinozaki Youichi , Kinouchi Hiroyuki , Tanaka Kenji F. , Bito Haruhiko , Tsuda Makoto , Koizumi Schuichi
Published: August 2024

Reactive astrocytes play a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of neurological diseases; however, their functional phenotype and the downstream molecules by which they modify disease pathogenesis remain unclear. Here, we genetically increase P2Y1 receptor (P2Y1R) expression, which is upregulated in reactive astrocytes in several neurological diseases, in astrocytes of male mice to explore its function and the downstream molecule. This astrocyte-specific P2Y1R overexpression causes neuronal hyperexcitability by increasing both astrocytic and neuronal Ca2+ signals. We identify insulin-like growth factor-binding protein 2 (IGFBP2) as a downstream molecule of P2Y1R in astrocytes; IGFBP2 acts as an excitatory signal to cause neuronal excitation. In neurological disease models of epilepsy and stroke, reactive astrocytes upregulate P2Y1R and increase IGFBP2. The present findings identify a mechanism underlying astrocyte-driven neuronal hyperexcitability, which is likely to be shared by several neurological disorders, providing insights that might be relevant for intervention in diverse neurological disorders.
Multi-omics characterization of the monkeypox virus infection
Authors: Huang Yiqi , Bergant Valter , Grass Vincent , Emslander Quirin , Hamad M. Sabri , Hubel Philipp , Mergner Julia , Piras Antonio , Krey Karsten , Henrici Alexander , Öllinger Rupert , Tesfamariam Yonas M. , Dalla Rosa Ilaria , Bunse Till , Sutter Gerd , Ebert Gregor , Schmidt Florian I. , Way Michael , Rad Roland , Bowie Andrew G. , Protzer Ulrike , Pichlmair Andreas
Published: August 2024

Multiple omics analyzes of Vaccinia virus (VACV) infection have defined molecular characteristics of poxvirus biology. However, little is known about the monkeypox (mpox) virus (MPXV) in humans, which has a different disease manifestation despite its high sequence similarity to VACV. Here, we perform an in-depth multi-omics analysis of the transcriptome, proteome, and phosphoproteome signatures of MPXV-infected primary human fibroblasts to gain insights into the virus-host interplay. In addition to expected perturbations of immune-related pathways, we uncover regulation of the HIPPO and TGF-β pathways. We identify dynamic phosphorylation of both host and viral proteins, which suggests that MAPKs are key regulators of differential phosphorylation in MPXV-infected cells. Among the viral proteins, we find dynamic phosphorylation of H5 that influenced the binding of H5 to dsDNA. Our extensive dataset highlights signaling events and hotspots perturbed by MPXV, extending the current knowledge on poxviruses. We use integrated pathway analysis and drug-target prediction approaches to identify potential drug targets that affect virus growth. Functionally, we exemplify the utility of this approach by identifying inhibitors of MTOR, CHUK/IKBKB, and splicing factor kinases with potent antiviral efficacy against MPXV and VACV.
A co-ordinated transcriptional programme in the maternal liver supplies long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids to the conceptus using phospholipids
Authors: Amarsi Risha , Furse Samuel , Cleaton Mary A. M. , Maurel Sarah , Mitchell Alice L. , Ferguson-Smith Anne C. , Cenac Nicolas , Williamson Catherine , Koulman Albert , Charalambous Marika
Published: August 2024

The long and very long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC-PUFAs) are preferentially transported by the mother to the fetus. Failure to supply LC-PUFAs is strongly linked with stillbirth, fetal growth restriction, and impaired neurodevelopmental outcomes. However, dietary supplementation during pregnancy is unable to simply reverse these outcomes, suggesting imperfectly understood interactions between dietary fatty acid intake and the molecular mechanisms of maternal supply. Here we employ a comprehensive approach combining untargeted and targeted lipidomics with transcriptional profiling of maternal and fetal tissues in mouse pregnancy. Comparison of wild-type mice with genetic models of impaired lipid metabolism allows us to describe maternal hepatic adaptations required to provide LC-PUFAs to the developing fetus. A late pregnancy-specific, selective activation of the Liver X Receptor signalling pathway dramatically increases maternal supply of LC-PUFAs within circulating phospholipids. Crucially, genetic ablation of this pathway in the mother reduces LC-PUFA accumulation by the fetus, specifically of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), a critical nutrient for brain development.
Substantial contribution of transported emissions to organic aerosol in Beijing
Authors: Daellenbach Kaspar R. , Cai Jing , Hakala Simo , Dada Lubna , Yan Chao , Du Wei , Yao Lei , Zheng Feixue , Ma Jialiang , Ungeheuer Florian , Vogel Alexander L. , Stolzenburg Dominik , Hao Yufang , Liu Yongchun , Bianchi Federico , Uzu Gaëlle , Jaffrezo Jean-Luc , Worsnop Douglas R. , Donahue Neil M. , Kulmala Markku
Published: August 2024

Haze in Beijing is linked to atmospherically formed secondary organic aerosol, which has been shown to be particularly harmful to human health. However, the sources and formation pathways of these secondary aerosols remain largely unknown, hindering effective pollution mitigation. Here we have quantified the sources of organic aerosol via direct near-molecular observations in central Beijing. In winter, organic aerosol pollution arises mainly from fresh solid-fuel emissions and secondary organic aerosols originating from both solid-fuel combustion and aqueous processes, probably involving multiphase chemistry with aromatic compounds. The most severe haze is linked to secondary organic aerosols originating from solid-fuel combustion, transported from the Beijing–Tianjing–Hebei Plain and rural mountainous areas west of Beijing. In summer, the increased fraction of secondary organic aerosol is dominated by aromatic emissions from the Xi’an–Shanghai–Beijing region, while the contribution of biogenic emissions remains relatively small. Overall, we identify the main sources of secondary organic aerosol affecting Beijing, which clearly extend beyond the local emissions in Beijing. Our results suggest that targeting key organic precursor emission sectors regionally may be needed to effectively mitigate organic aerosol pollution.
Anti-tumor effect of innovative tumor treatment device OM-100 through enhancing anti-PD-1 immunotherapy in glioblastoma growth
Authors: Yan Zhaoxian , Huang Lifa , Zhang Xin , Yu Xinyan , Huang Rui
Published: August 2024

Glioblastoma (GBM) is associated with a median survival rate of less than 15 months, necessitating innovative treatment approaches. This study investigates the safety and efficacy of the low-frequency magnetic field (LFMF) OM-100 instrument in GBM therapy. In vitro experiments utilized normal astrocyte and GBM cell lines, determining that OM-100 at 100 kHz for 72 h selectively targeted GBM cells without harming normal cells. Subsequent analyses revealed OM-100’s impact on cell viability, apoptosis, migration, invasion, reactive oxide species levels, and PD-L1 expression. In vivo studies on mice with U87-induced GBM demonstrated OM-100's synergy with anti-PD-1 therapy, leading to significant tumor volume reduction and increased apoptosis. Notably, OM-100 exhibited safety in healthy mice. Overall, OM-100 could enhance anti-PD-1 immunotherapy effectiveness probably by directly inhibiting tumor proliferation and migration as well as promoting PD-L1 expression, offering a promising therapeutic strategy for GBM treatment.