bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A uniqueness property for Bergman functions on the Siegel upper half-space
Authors: Liu Congwen , Si Jiajia , Xu Heng
Published: October 2022

In this paper, we show that the Bergman functions on the Siegel upper half-space enjoy the following uniqueness property: if

f
∈

A
t
p

(

U

)

f\in A_t^p(\mathcal {U})

and

L

α

f
≡
0

\mathcal {L}^{\alpha } f\equiv 0

for some nonnegative multi-index

α
\alpha

, then

f
≡
0

f\equiv 0

, where
<mml:math xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" alttext="script upper L Superscript alpha Baseline colon-equal left-parenthesis script upper L 1 right-parenthesis Superscript alpha 1 Baseline midline-horizontal-ellipsis left-parenthesis script upper L Subscript n Baseline right-parenthesis Superscript alpha Super Subscript n">

L

α

≔
(

L

1

)

α
1

⋯
(

L

n

)

α
n

\mathcal {L}^{\alpha }≔(\mathcal {L}_1)^{\alpha _1} \cdots (\mathcal {L}_n)^{\alpha _n}

with
<mml:math xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" alttext="script upper L Subscript j Baseline equals StartFraction partial-differential Over partial-differential z Subscript j Baseline EndFraction plus 2 i z overbar Subscript j Baseline StartFraction partial-differential Over partial-differential z Subscript n Baseline EndFraction">

L

j

=

∂

∂

z
j

+
2
i

z
¯

j

∂

∂

z
n

\mathcal {L}_j = \frac {\partial }{\partial z_j} + 2i \bar {z}_j \frac {\partial }{\partial z_n}

for

j
=
1
,
…
,
n
−
1

j=1,\ldots , n-1

and

L

n

=

∂

∂

z
n

\mathcal {L}_n = \frac {\partial }{\partial z_n}

. As a consequence, we obtain a new integral representation for the Bergman functions on the Siegel upper half-space. In the end, as an application, we derive a result that relates the Bergman norm to a “derivative norm”, which suggests an alternative definition of the Bloch space and a notion of the Besov spaces over the Siegel upper half-space.
p115RhoGEF activates RhoA to support tight junction maintenance and remodeling
Authors: Chumki Shahana A. , van den Goor Lotte M. , Hall Benjamin N. , Miller Ann L.
Published: October 2022

This study investigates which RhoGEF locally activates RhoA at sites of local tight junction loss. We find that p115RhoGEF activates Rho flares during local tight junction remodeling and plays a critical role in maintaining junctional RhoA to support apical actomyosin and cell-cell junctions to preserve epithelial barrier function.
Synergy between inhibitors of two mitotic spindle assembly motors undermines an adaptive response
Authors: Solon April L. , Zaniewski Taylor M. , O’Brien Patrick , Clasby Martin , Hancock William O. , Ohi Ryoma
Published: October 2022

KIF15 is a mitotic kinesin that can suppress the cytotoxic effects of inhibitors of Eg5, another mitotic motor, rendering them clinically ineffective. We identified two novel and distinct KIF15 inhibitor scaffolds. Here we characterize their potency and specificity for KIF15 and demonstrate that they prevent resistance to Eg5 inhibitors in vivo.
Integrating bioinformatic strategies in spatial life science research
Authors: Hao Yangyang , Lu Liang , Liu Anna , Lin Xue , Xiao Li , Kong Xiaoyue , Li Kai , Liang Fengji , Xiong Jianghui , Qu Lina , Li Yinghui , Li Jian
Published: October 2022

As space exploration programs progress, manned space missions will become more frequent and farther away from Earth, putting a greater emphasis on astronaut health. Through the collaborative efforts of researchers from various countries, the effect of the space environment factors on living systems is gradually being uncovered. Although a large number of interconnected research findings have been produced, their connection seems to be confused, and many unknown effects are left to be discovered. Simultaneously, several valuable data resources have emerged, accumulating data measuring biological effects in space that can be used to further investigate the unknown biological adaptations. In this review, the previous findings and their correlations are sorted out to facilitate the understanding of biological adaptations to space and the design of countermeasures. The biological effect measurement methods/data types are also organized to provide references for experimental design and data analysis. To aid deeper exploration of the data resources, we summarized common characteristics of the data generated from longitudinal experiments, outlined challenges or caveats in data analysis and provided corresponding solutions by recommending bioinformatics strategies and available models/tools.
Squid Gameoutside the wall: fandom nationalism in China and negotiation with state power
Authors: Wang Erika Ningxin
Published: October 2022

In the post-COVID era, the prevalence of “fandom nationalism” on Chinese social media has led to the development of two distinct attitudes toward Squid Game among Chinese netizens. Some nationalist netizens are dedicated to accusing Squid Game of plagiarism or dismissing it as a “cultural invasion.” Another group of fans, due to the ever-tightening Chinese Internet governance, use fandom nationalism as a disguise to protect themselves against cyberbullying by declaring an anti-Korean political stance before posting positive comments about Squid Game. Therefore, two such divergent attitudes eventually led to a negotiation between fan culture and state power, where on the one hand fandom nationalistic practices were accepted by the mainstream for party-state propaganda, but on the other, in order to prevent being censored, fan culture had to be subordinated to the state’s governance.
Nosocomial Malaria Transmissions Resolved by Genomic Analyses—A Retrospective Case Report Study in France: 2007–2021
Authors: Coppée Romain , Sarrasin Véronique , Zaffaroulah Rizwana , Bouzayene Azza , Thellier Marc , Noël Harold , Clain Jérôme , Houzé Sandrine ,   the Investigation Study Group, Abgrall Sophie , Alizada Ulviyya , Argy Nicolas , Benet Blandine , Botterel Françoise , Bouetard Laura , Braun François , Broustal Oriane , Brun Sophie , Calba Clementine , Chosidow Anaïs , Damoisel Charles , De suremain Nathalie , Dhote Robin , Eclache-saudreau Virginie , Fenneteau Odile , Figoni Julie , Fremont-goudot Guillemette , Gaudichon Agnès , Gette Sebastien , Goetz Christophe , Guigui Laura , Hamon Christelle , Harich Raya , Hautcoeur Antoine , Jaureguiberry Stéphane , Joste Valentin , Kendjo Eric , Khouadhria Siham , Lepainteur Margaux , Leleu Anaïs , Llorens Mathieu , Lorrot Mathie , Marteau Anthony , de molliens Isabelle Poujol , Quermelin Valérie , szatmary Lydia Raineri di , Renaudin Laurie , Riviere Simon , Robert Céline , Simon Loïc , Siriez Jean-yves , Soualah Santa , Tarantola Arnaud , Tastet Fanny , Vignes Dorothée , Zhu-soubise Aurélien , Zouiti Fouzia
Published: October 2022

Background

Exposure of blood to malaria parasites can lead to infection even in the absence of the mosquito vector. During a stay in a healthcare facility, accidental inoculation of the skin with blood from a malaria patient might occur, referred to as nosocomial malaria.

Methods

Between 2007 and 2021, we identified 6 autochthonous malaria cases that occurred in different French hospitals, originating from nosocomial transmission and imported malaria cases being the infection source. Four cases were observed during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. The genetic relatedness between source and nosocomial infections was evaluated by genome-wide short tandem repeats (STRs) and single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs).

Results

None of the patients with autochthonous malaria had travel history to an endemic area nor had been transfused. For each case, both the source and recipient patients stayed a few hours in the same ward. After diagnosis, autochthonous cases were treated with antimalarials and all recovered except 1. Genetically, each pair of matched source/nosocomial parasite infections showed <1% of different STRs and <6.9% (<1.5% for monoclonal infections) of different SNPs. Similar levels of genetic differences were obtained for parasite DNA samples that were independently sequenced twice as references of identical infections. Parasite phylogenomics were consistent with travel information reported by the source patients.

Conclusions

Our study demonstrates that genomics analyses may resolve nosocomial malaria transmissions, despite the uncertainty regarding the modes of contamination. Nosocomial transmission of potentially life-threatening parasites should be taken into consideration in settings or occasions where compliance with universal precautions is not rigorous.
Microemboli induced by air bubbles may be deposited in organs as a consequence of contamination during medical care
Authors: Forsberg Ulf , Jonsson Per , Stegmayr Bernd
Published: October 2022

Background

Larger volumes of accidental air infused during medical care may end up as emboli while microbubbles of air are supposed to be absorbed and cause no harm. The aim of this autopsy study was to investigate if microbubbles of air accidently entering the bloodline may be detected as microemboli (ME) in tissue such as lungs, brain and heart. If so, do differences in prevalence exist between haemodialysis (HD) and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) patients.

Methods

Included were data from 44 patients treated by medical healthcare before death. Twenty-five cases had been treated with chronic HD and 19 cases died from ALS. Since air in the bloodline activates coagulation, ME could appear. To discriminate between microbubbles caused by artificial contamination during autopsy versus microbubbles deposited in vivo, tissues were stained with a polyclonal fluorescent antibody against fibrinogen, fibrin and fragments E and D. Fluorescence staining was used to visualize ME counted within 25 microscopic fields (600×) of a tissue preparation. One tissue preparation was used if available from the lung, heart and frontal lobe of the brain and in five cases also the cerebellum.

Results

Microbubbles can be verified at autopsy as ME in the lung, heart and brain in tissue from patients exposed to more extensive medical care. There were significantly more ME in the lungs versus the heart or brain. Women had fewer ME than men. The HD group had a higher median of ME per section than the ALS group (lung: 6 versus 3, P = .007; heart: 2.5 versus 1, P = .013; brain: 7.5 versus 2, P = .001) and had more sections with ME findings than the ALS group (P = .002). A correlation existed between the time on HD (months) and ME in the lungs.

Conclusions

More ME were present in HD patients compared with those who suffered from ALS. Minimizing air contamination from syringes, infusions and bloodlines will decrease ME and subsequent tissue injury.
Adaptability of Two Soybean Aphid Species to High Diurnal Temperatures
Authors: Huo Dongbo , Tian Zhenqi , Liu Dailin , Wu Cirui , Wang Ling , Liu Jian
Published: October 2022

The local temperature in the Harbin region of northeast China has been rising, with temperatures above 27°C often being recorded. The soybean aphid, Aphis glycines (Matsumura) (Hemiptera: Aphididae), and foxglove aphid, Aulacorthum solani (Kaltenbach) (Hemiptera: Aphididae), are important pests in soybeans in the region, which face great survival pressure due to rising temperatures. In this study, A. glycines and A. solani were reared at thermoperiods with diurnal temperatures of 25, 27, 29, 31, 33, 35, and 37°C, nocturnal temperature of 20 °C, 70% ± 5% relative humidity, and a photoperiod of 14:10 (L: D) hr. Diurnal thermoperiod 25°C was used as control. Some life characteristics of the aphids were assessed. The adaptation of A. solani to high diurnal temperatures was found to be worse than that of A. glycines. Aphis glycines could develop and reproduce successfully at diurnal temperatures of 27–35°C, whereas A. solani could only develop and reproduce at 27–29°C. At diurnal thermoperiods at 25°C, adult lifespan of A. solani was as long as that of A. glycines. When diurnal temperatures increased from 27 to 31°C, adult lifespan of A. solani were shorter than those of A. glycines. At diurnal thermoperiods at 25 and 27°C, the body sizes of A. solani adults were larger than those of A. glycines. At diurnal thermoperiods at 29 and 31°C, the body size of A. solani adults were as large as those of A. glycines. Our results provide important information on the survival, development, and reproduction of A. glycines and A. solani exposed to temperatures above 27°C, which is important for evaluating the adaptability of aphids to high temperatures and predicting their dynamics in soybeans in northeast China, where the local environmental temperature continues to rise.
Jumping the Gun: How Dictators Got Ahead of Their Subjects
Authors: Hariri Jacob Gerner , Wingender Asger Mose
Published: October 2022

Economic modernisation is widely seen as a path to democracy, but the technological progress that drives modernisation also provides rulers with new means of repression. We collect data on the international diffusion of 29 repressive military technologies, and demonstrate that such technologies spread faster from Western Europe and the United States than economic development. Moreover, in a panel of all independent countries in the period 1820–2010, we show that the rapid diffusion of repressive technologies has impeded democratisation around the world, by allowing autocratic rulers to suppress popular resistance against their regimes.
ORal anticoagulation risks late aortic intervention in Conservatively managed type B Aortic dissection (ORCA study)
Authors: Jesse Katarzyna , Meuli Lorenz , Kopp Reinhard , Reutersberg Benedikt , Stadlbauer Thomas , Zimmermann Alexander , Dueppers Philip
Published: October 2022

OBJECTIVES

Single-center retrospective cohort study to evaluate the impact of oral anticoagulation (OAC) on long-term outcomes of conservatively managed acute type B aortic dissection.

METHODS

Clinical and morphological data of eligible patients from a high-volume vascular centre from 1 January 2003 through 31 December 2020 were evaluated. Patients were excluded for: type A or non-A-non-B dissection, isolated abdominal dissection, intramural haematoma and connective tissue disease. The primary outcome was freedom from late aortic events (intervention, rupture and mortality). Secondary outcomes included spinal cord ischaemia, bleeding, reno-visceral artery occlusion, ilio-femoral intervention, dissection propagation, aortic growth, aortic remodelling, deterioration of false lumen thrombosis as well as 30-day and overall mortality. Time to event was analysed using multivariable Cox proportional hazard models with OAC as time-varying covariate and mortality as a competing risk. The impact of OAC was adjusted for potential confounding factors.

RESULTS

A total of 69 patients [50 males, median age 65 (interquartile range: 58–72) years] were enrolled. The median follow-up was 49.3 (28–92) months. A total of 47 patients (68%) received OAC at any time throughout the follow-up for a median length of 26 (11–61) months. Late aortic events occurred in 28 patients (41%) including intervention (n = 27, 39%) and rupture (n = 1, 1%). OAC was associated with more late aortic events (hazard ratio 3.94, 95% confidence interval 1.06–14.6, P = 0.040). Secondary outcomes were not associated with OAC.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data suggest a relation of OAC therapy with an increased risk for late aortic interventions. Type B aortic dissection should not be the primary indication for OAC and patients with OAC for other indications require frequent follow-up imaging.
Analysing behavioural outcome effectiveness in a musical theatre-based HIV/AIDS intervention among South African farm workers
Authors: Walker Gavin Robert
Published: October 2022

In 2005, an applied theatre community outreach programme was launched to address low levels of HIV/AIDS awareness among farm workers in the Cape Winelands of South Africa. In cooperation with HIV testing organizations, the Lucky, the Hero mini-musical promoted regular HIV testing, condom use and acceptance of people living with HIV until being retired in 2017. Applying principles of the health belief model to interview data collected in 2015 from former Lucky, the Hero participants, this paper examines the effectiveness of the theatre production to achieve the behavioural outcomes of (i) encouraging regular HIV testing and ongoing awareness of HIV serostatus, and (ii) reducing AIDS-related social stigma. The findings suggest that the interventions were successful in persuading participants to know their HIV status immediately following the shows, as well as potentially contributing to a reduction of community-based external social stigma. However, the interventions were unable to maintain engagement with these behavioural outcomes in the years following the performances, resulting in low adherence to regular HIV testing and inconsistent condom use. Additionally, ongoing social and structural barriers to regular HIV testing and the potential for self-imposed HIV-related stigma were highlighted during the discussions. While applied theatre can be an effective avenue for HIV awareness and prevention, the paper demonstrates the importance of creating and maintaining strong community networks to support continued engagement with health-related behavioural outcomes.
Feasibility and acceptability of B6: a social capital program for young Black gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men living with HIV
Authors: Moore Shamia J , Wood-Palmer Drew K , Jones Marxavian D , Doraivelu Kamini , Newman Jr Antonio , Harper Gary W , Camacho-González Andrés , del Río Carlos , Sutton Madeline Y , Hussen Sophia A
Published: October 2022

Young Black gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men (YB-GBMSM) are disproportionately burdened by HIV and often exhibit suboptimal engagement in HIV care. With the goal of increasing engagement in HIV care, we designed a culturally specific, theory-based group-level program, Brothers Building Brothers by Breaking Barriers (B6), which aimed to strengthen resilience and social capital among YB-GBMSM living with HIV. We conducted a pilot trial to evaluate the program’s acceptability and feasibility. Through clinic-based recruitment and community outreach events, we recruited and enrolled 71 YB-GBMSM into the study. Participants were randomized to either the B6 program or a control comparison program. Post-session evaluation surveys and in-depth qualitative interviews showed B6 to have high levels of acceptability and satisfaction. Specifically, participants described benefits to interacting in a group with other YB-GBMSM, and several described increased comfort with their own gay identities after participation. No adverse events or safety concerns were reported. However, there were challenges to feasibility, as reflected in recruitment and retention rates. The B6 program was highly acceptable among YB-GBMSM living with HIV; however, innovative program delivery methods and implementation strategies will be needed to improve recruitment and retention in future implementation of B6.
Zoster-Associated Prothrombotic Plasma Exosomes and Increased Stroke Risk
Authors: Bubak Andrew N , Coughlan Christina , Posey Janelle , Saviola Anthony J , Niemeyer Christy S , Lewis Serena W R , Lopez Sara Bustos , Solano Adriana , Tyring Stephen K , Delaney Cassidy , Neeves Keith B , Mahalingam Ravi , Hansen Kirk C , Nagel Maria A
Published: October 2022

Herpes zoster (HZ; shingles) caused by varicella zoster virus reactivation increases stroke risk for up to 1 year after HZ. The underlying mechanisms are unclear, however, the development of stroke distant from the site of zoster (eg, thoracic, lumbar, sacral) that can occur months after resolution of rash points to a long-lasting, virus-induced soluble factor (or factors) that can trigger thrombosis and/or vasculitis. Herein, we investigated the content and contributions of circulating plasma exosomes from HZ and non-HZ patient samples. Compared with non-HZ exosomes, HZ exosomes (1) contained proteins conferring a prothrombotic state to recipient cells and (2) activated platelets leading to the formation of platelet-leukocyte aggregates. Exosomes 3 months after HZ yielded similar results and also triggered cerebrovascular cells to secrete the proinflammatory cytokines, interleukin 6 and 8. These results can potentially change clinical practice through addition of antiplatelet agents for HZ and initiatives to increase HZ vaccine uptake to decrease stroke risk.
Neisseria gonorrhoeae Infection in Women Increases With Rising Gonococcal Burdens in Partners: Chlamydia Coinfection in Women Increases Gonococcal Burden
Authors: Su Xiaohong , Le Wenjing , Zhu Xiaofeng , Li Sai , Wang Baoxi , Madico Guillermo , Yang Zhaoyan , Chaisson Christine E , McLaughlin Robert E , Gandra Sumanth , Yoon Jungwon , Zheng Bo , Lewis Lisa A , Gulati Sunita , Reed George W , Ram Sanjay , Rice Peter A
Published: October 2022

Background

Likelihood of Neisseria gonorrhoeae infection in women exposed to male sex partners with increasing N. gonorrhoeae burdens and enhancement by Chlamydia trachomatis is not defined.

Methods

We identified men with urethritis and their regular female sex partners. Exposure to N. gonorrhoeae burdens in men was compared in N. gonorrhoeae-infected versus -uninfected partners. Association of N. gonorrhoeae infection in women with burdens in male partners was estimated using logistic regression. Association of C. trachomatis coinfection and N. gonorrhoeae burdens in women adjusted for burdens in male partners was estimated by linear regression.

Results

In total, 1816 men were enrolled; 202 had ≥2 partners, 91 who confirmed monogamy and were enrolled; 77% were married. Seventy were partners of N. gonorrhoeae-infected men; 58 (83%) were N. gonorrhoeae infected, 26 (45%) C. trachomatis coinfected. Infected women had partners with 9.3-fold higher N. gonorrhoeae burdens than partners of uninfected women (P = .0041). Association of N. gonorrhoeae infection in women with upper quartiles of N. gonorrhoeae burdens in partners increased (odds ratios ≥ 2.97)compared to the first quartile (P = .032). N. gonorrhoeae burdens in C. trachomatis-coinfected women were 2.82-fold higher than in C. trachomatis-uninfected women (P = .036).

Conclusions

N. gonorrhoeae infections increased in women whose partners were infected with higher N. gonorrhoeae burdens. C. trachomatis coinfection was associated with increased N. gonorrhoeae burdens in women.
Alpha to Omicron: Disease Severity and Clinical Outcomes of Major SARS-CoV-2 Variants
Authors: Esper Frank P , Adhikari Thamali M , Tu Zheng Jin , Cheng Yu-Wei , El-Haddad Kim , Farkas Daniel H , Bosler David , Rhoads Daniel , Procop Gary W , Ko Jennifer S , Jehi Lara , Li Jing , Rubin Brian P
Published: October 2022

Background

Four severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) variants predominated in the United States since 2021. Understanding disease severity related to different SARS-CoV-2 variants remains limited.

Method

Viral genome analysis was performed on SARS-CoV-2 clinical isolates circulating March 2021 through March 2022 in Cleveland, Ohio. Major variants were correlated with disease severity and patient outcomes.

Results

In total 2779 patients identified with either Alpha (n = 1153), Gamma (n = 122), Delta (n = 808), or Omicron variants (n = 696) were selected for analysis. No difference in frequency of hospitalization, intensive care unit (ICU) admission, and death were found among Alpha, Gamma, and Delta variants. However, patients with Omicron infection were significantly less likely to be admitted to the hospital, require oxygen, or admission to the ICU (χ2 = 12.8, P < .001; χ2 = 21.6, P < .002; χ2 = 9.6, P = .01, respectively). In patients whose vaccination status was known, a substantial number had breakthrough infections with Delta or Omicron variants (218/808 [26.9%] and 513/696 [73.7%], respectively). In breakthrough infections, hospitalization rate was similar regardless of variant by multivariate analysis. No difference in disease severity was identified between Omicron subvariants BA.1 and BA.2.

Conclusions

Disease severity associated with Alpha, Gamma, and Delta variants is comparable while Omicron infections are significantly less severe. Breakthrough disease is significantly more common in patients with Omicron infection.
Green Spectrophotometric Platforms for Resolving Overlapped Spectral Signals of Recently Approved Antiparkinsonian Drug (Safinamide) in the Presence of Its Synthetic Precursor (4-Hydroxybenzaldehyde): Applying Ecological Appraisal and Comparative Statistical Studies
Authors: El-Sayed Heba M , El-Abassy Omar M , Abdellatef Hisham Ezzat , Hendawy Hassan A M , Ibrahim Hany
Published: October 2022

Background

Safinamide, a highly specific inhibitor of monoamine oxidase B, is a new approved prodigious therapy used to cure Parkinson's disease (PD).

Objective

Before marketing and selling a medicine, manufacturers must guarantee that the manufacturing process is consistent by monitoring levels of process-related chemicals and drug contaminants. Therefore, five precise, fast, and accurate spectrophotometric techniques were employed and evaluated for the simultaneous measurement of safinamide and its synthetic precursor, 4-hydroxybenzaldehyde.

Methods

The first derivative, derivative ratio, ratio difference, dual wavelength, and Fourier self-deconvolution methods worked well to resolve spectral overlap of safinamide and its synthetic precursor, 4-hydroxybenzaldehyde.

Results

Safinamide detection limits ranged from 0.598 to 1.315 µg/mL, whereas the 4-hydroxybenzaldehyde detection limit was found to be as low as 0.327 µg/mL.

Conclusion

According to International Council for Harmonisation (ICH) criteria, all procedures were verified and confirmed to be accurate, robust, repeatable, and precise within reasonable range. No considerable variation was found when comparing the outcomes of the suggested approaches to the findings of previously published methods. The ecological value of established methods was measured: the national environmental methods index (NEMI), the analytical eco-scale, the analytical greenness metric (AGREE), and the green analytical process index (GAPI) were used.

Highlights

This is the first spectrophotometric determination of safinamide drug in the presence of its synthetic precursor. Five simple and efficient spectrophotometric approaches were employed to determine a newly approved antiparkinsonian drug in the presence of its synthetic precursor simultaneously. Ecological appraisal was performed for the developed methods using four assessment tools.
Biochemical analysis of anthocyanin and proanthocyanidin and their regulation in determining chickpea flower and seed coat colour
Authors: Pal Lalita , Dwivedi Vikas , Gupta Santosh Kumar , Saxena Samiksha , Pandey Ashutosh , Chattopadhyay Debasis
Published: October 2022

Flower and seed coat colour are important agronomic traits in chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.). Cultivated chickpeas are of two types namely, desi (dark seeded, purple flowered) and kabuli (light seeded, white flowered). There has been limited information about the molecular mechanism underlying colour variation of flower and seed coats in desi and kabuli chickpea. We profiled the anthocyanin and proanthocyanidin (PA) contents in chickpea flowers and seed coats. Tissue-specific silencing of two genes encoding a basic helix-loop-helix (CabHLH) protein and a tonoplast-localized multidrug and toxic compound extrusion (CaMATE1) transporter in a desi genotype resulted in the reduction in expression of anthocyanin and PA biosynthetic genes and anthocyanin and PA contents in the flower and seed coat, and produced flowers and seeds with kabuli characteristics. Transcriptional regulation of a subset of anthocyanin and PA biosynthetic genes by a natural CabHLH variant and transport assay of a natural CaMATE1 variant explained the association of these alleles with the kabuli phenotype. We carried out a detailed molecular characterization of these genes, and provided evidence that kabuli chickpea flower and seed colour phenotypes can be derived by manipulation of single genes in a desi chickpea background.
Modelling the time variable spectral energy distribution of the blazar CTA 102 from 2008 to 2022
Authors: Sahakyan N , Israyelyan D , Harutyunyan G , Gasparyan S , Vardanyan V , Khachatryan M
Published: October 2022

We present long-term multiwavelength observations of blazar CTA 102 ($z$ = 1.037). Detailed temporal and spectral analyses of γ-ray, X-ray, and UV/optical data observed by Fermi-LAT, Swift XRT, NuSTAR, and Swift-UVOT over a period of 14 yr, between 2008 August and 2022 March, were performed. We found strong variability of source emission in all the considered bands; especially in the γ-ray band it exhibited extreme outbursts when the flux crossed the level of 10−5 photon cm−2 s−1. Using the Bayesian Blocks algorithm, we split the adaptively binned γ-ray light curve into 347 intervals of quiescent and flaring episodes and for each period built corresponding multiwavelength spectral energy distributions (SEDs), using the available data. Among the considered SEDs, 117 high-quality (quasi) contemporaneous SEDs, which have sufficient multiwavelength data, were modelled using jetset framework within a one-zone leptonic synchrotron and inverse-Compton emission scenario assuming the emitting region is within the broad-line region and considering internal and external seed photons for the inverse-Compton upscattering. As a result of modelling, the characteristics of the relativistic electron distribution in the jet as well as jet properties are retrieved and their variation in time is investigated. The applied model can adequately explain the assembled SEDs and the modelling shows that the data in the bright flaring periods can be reproduced for high Doppler boosting and magnetic field. The obtained results are discussed in the context of particle cooling in the emitting region.
Multimodal X-ray nano-spectromicroscopy analysis of chemically heterogeneous systems
Authors: Pattammattel Ajith , Tappero Ryan , Gavrilov Dmitri , Zhang Hongqiao , Aronstein Paul , Forman Henry Jay , O'Day Peggy A , Yan Hanfei , Chu Yong S
Published: October 2022

Understanding the nanoscale chemical speciation of heterogeneous systems in their native environment is critical for several disciplines such as life and environmental sciences, biogeochemistry, and materials science. Synchrotron-based X-ray spectromicroscopy tools are widely used to understand the chemistry and morphology of complex material systems owing to their high penetration depth and sensitivity. The multidimensional (4D+) structure of spectromicroscopy data poses visualization and data-reduction challenges. This paper reports the strategies for the visualization and analysis of spectromicroscopy data. We created a new graphical user interface and data analysis platform named XMIDAS (X-ray multimodal image data analysis software) to visualize spectromicroscopy data from both image and spectrum representations. The interactive data analysis toolkit combined conventional analysis methods with well-established machine learning classification algorithms (e.g. nonnegative matrix factorization) for data reduction. The data visualization and analysis methodologies were then defined and optimized using a model particle aggregate with known chemical composition. Nanoprobe-based X-ray fluorescence (nano-XRF) and X-ray absorption near edge structure (nano-XANES) spectromicroscopy techniques were used to probe elemental and chemical state information of the aggregate sample. We illustrated the complete chemical speciation methodology of the model particle by using XMIDAS. Next, we demonstrated the application of this approach in detecting and characterizing nanoparticles associated with alveolar macrophages. Our multimodal approach combining nano-XRF, nano-XANES, and differential phase-contrast imaging efficiently visualizes the chemistry of localized nanostructure with the morphology. We believe that the optimized data-reduction strategies and tool development will facilitate the analysis of complex biological and environmental samples using X-ray spectromicroscopy techniques.
rRNA expansion segment 7 in eukaryotes: from Signature Fold to tentacles
Authors: Biesiada Marcin , Hu Michael Y , Williams Loren Dean , Purzycka Katarzyna J , Petrov Anton S
Published: October 2022

The ribosomal core is universally conserved across the tree of life. However, eukaryotic ribosomes contain diverse rRNA expansion segments (ESs) on their surfaces. Sites of ES insertions are predicted from sites of insertion of micro-ESs in archaea. Expansion segment 7 (ES7) is one of the most diverse regions of the ribosome, emanating from a short stem loop and ranging to over 750 nucleotides in mammals. We present secondary and full-atom 3D structures of ES7 from species spanning eukaryotic diversity. Our results are based on experimental 3D structures, the accretion model of ribosomal evolution, phylogenetic relationships, multiple sequence alignments, RNA folding algorithms and 3D modeling by RNAComposer. ES7 contains a distinct motif, the ‘ES7 Signature Fold’, which is generally invariant in 2D topology and 3D structure in all eukaryotic ribosomes. We establish a model in which ES7 developed over evolution through a series of elementary and recursive growth events. The data are sufficient to support an atomic-level accretion path for rRNA growth. The non-monophyletic distribution of some ES7 features across the phylogeny suggests acquisition via convergent processes. And finally, illustrating the power of our approach, we constructed the 2D and 3D structure of the entire LSU rRNA of Mus musculus.
Non-canonical Staphylococcus aureus pathogenicity island repression
Authors: Miguel-Romero Laura , Alqasmi Mohammed , Bacarizo Julio , Tan Jason A , Cogdell Richard J , Chen John , Byron Olwyn , Christie Gail E , Marina Alberto , Penadés José R
Published: October 2022

Mobile genetic elements control their life cycles by the expression of a master repressor, whose function must be disabled to allow the spread of these elements in nature. Here, we describe an unprecedented repression-derepression mechanism involved in the transfer of Staphylococcus aureus pathogenicity islands (SaPIs). Contrary to the classical phage and SaPI repressors, which are dimers, the SaPI1 repressor StlSaPI1 presents a unique tetrameric conformation never seen before. Importantly, not just one but two tetramers are required for SaPI1 repression, which increases the novelty of the system. To derepress SaPI1, the phage-encoded protein Sri binds to and induces a conformational change in the DNA binding domains of StlSaPI1, preventing the binding of the repressor to its cognate StlSaPI1 sites. Finally, our findings demonstrate that this system is not exclusive to SaPI1 but widespread in nature. Overall, our results characterize a novel repression-induction system involved in the transfer of MGE-encoded virulence factors in nature.
Host Biomarkers Reflect Prognosis in Patients Presenting With Moderate Coronavirus Disease 2019: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Chandna Arjun , Mahajan Raman , Gautam Priyanka , Mwandigha Lazaro ,   for the PRIORITISE Study Investigators, Abhilash Kundavaram PP , Balamugesh T , Burza Sakib , Bhattacharjee Atanu , Bhusan Divendu , Chandna Arjun , Cheung Arthur T L , David Thambu , Day Nicholas , Dayanand Divya , Dittrich Sabine , Dondorp Arjen , Gautam Priyanka , Geevar Tulasi , George Biju , Ghattamaneni Srinivasa R , Gunasekaran Karthik , Gupta Richa , Hansdak Samuel G , Hussain Samreen , Iyadurai Ramya , Jimenez Carolina , Karthik Rajiv , Karthikeyan Rohini , Kazmi Sharwar , Koshiaris Constantinos , Kumar Pragya , Kumar Sanjeev , Kumar Shiril , Kumar Vikash , Kundu Debasree , Lakshmanan Ankita , Lubell Yoel , Mahajan Raman , Manesh Abi , Menggred Chonticha , Moorthy Mahesh , Mwandigha Lazaro , Osborn Jennifer , Richard-Greenblatt Melissa , Sathyendra Sowmya , Sebastian Merylin , Sharma Sadhana , Singh Veena K , Singh Vikash K , Smith Christopher , Suri Javvad , Suzuki Shuichi , Tubprasert Jaruwan , Turner Paul , Varghese George , Villanueva Annavi M G , Waithira Naomi , Zachariah Anand , Kumar Pragya , Varghese George M , Koshiaris Constantinos , Lubell Yoel , Burza Sakib
Published: October 2022

Efficient resource allocation is essential for effective pandemic response. We measured host biomarkers in 420 patients presenting with moderate coronavirus disease 2019 and found that different biomarkers predict distinct clinical outcomes. Interleukin (IL)–1ra, IL-6, IL-10, and IL-8 exhibit dose-response relationships with subsequent disease progression and could potentially be useful for multiple use-cases.
Demographics and Outcomes of Initial Phase of COVID-19 Medicines Delivery Units Across 4 UK Centers During Peak B1.1.529 Omicron Epidemic: A Service Evaluation
Authors: Brown Michael , Saund Jasjot , Qureshi Azka , Plowright Megan , Drury Katie , Gahir Joshua , Simpson Tom , Newman Thomas , Adams Kate , Galloway James , Durairaj Kezia , Elgizouli Kamla , Rampling Tommy , Cole Joby , Easom Nicholas , Goodman Anna L , Marks Michael
Published: October 2022

Background

COVID-19 medicines delivery units (CMDU) were established in late December 2021 to deliver early antiviral therapy to patients classified as at risk with the aim of preventing hospitalization.

Methods

We performed a service evaluation at 4 CMDUs in England. We assessed demographics and triage outcomes of CMDU referral, uptake of antiviral therapy, and the rate of subsequent hospitalizations within 2 weeks of CMDU referral.

Results

Over a 3-week period, 4788 patients were referred and 3989 were ultimately assessed by a CMDU. Overall, 832 of the patients referred (17%) were judged eligible for treatment and 628 (13%) were ultimately prescribed an antiviral agent. The overall rate of admission within 14 days was 1%. Patients who were admitted were significantly older than those who did not require hospitalization. Of patients prescribed molnupiravir and sotrovimab, 1.8% and 3.2%, respectively, were admitted.

Conclusions

There was a high volume of referrals to CMDU service during the initial surge of the Omicron wave in the United Kingdom. A minority of patients were judged to be eligible for therapy. In a highly vaccinated population, the overall hospitalization rate was low.
Neoadjuvant Versus Adjuvant Chemotherapy for Resectable Metastatic Colon Cancer in Non-academic and Academic Programs
Authors: Hao Zhonglin , Parasramka Saurabh , Chen Quan , Jacob Aasems , Huang Bin , Mullett Timothy , Benson Al B
Published: October 2022

Background

Overall survival advantage of chemotherapy before versus after metastasectomy of liver or lung lesion is not clear for colon cancer with synchronous liver or lung metastasis.

Materials and Methods

Adults 20 years or older with primary colon cancer and single organ metastatic disease either in the liver or lung at diagnosis were identified between 2010 and 2015 through the National Cancer Database (NCDB). Patients were categorized into 2 cohorts: pre-operative/peri-operative chemotherapy (neoadjuvant –[NAC]) or post-operative chemotherapy (adjuvant [AC]). Survivals and factors associated with were compared between the 2 groups.

Results

A total of 3038 patients with colon cancer with liver or lung metastases were identified. The percentage of patients receiving NAC had steadily increased from 12.29% to 28.31%, mostly in academic programs. On multivariate analysis, patients who received NAC had an overall survival advantage in the non-academic setting whereas no advantage is seen in the patients treated in the academic settings. The median overall survival for patients receiving NAC and AC was 47.24 months and 38.08 months, respectively. Factors associated with overall survival advantage in NAC patients treated in non-academic programs included age 20-49 years, CEA value of >30, right-sided colon primary, liver metastasis, and clear resection margins.

Conclusions

Metastatic colon cancer with single organ liver or lung lesions benefits from neoadjuvant chemotherapy, especially in ­non-academic settings. The overall survival advantage in this setting has not been shown before.
African Criminologies
Authors: Warren Ian , Ryan Emma
Published: October 2022

This chapter argues that the decolonization of criminology and criminal justice throughout Africa has enormous potential to reshape the static trajectory of the discipline. This is because the central role of criminology in sustaining inherently harmful justice institutions and practices is reflected clearly in lived African experiences that are obscured in knowledge-building practices throughout the Global North. The emphasis in this chapter is on two interconnected problems specific to the colonial and postcolonial conditions in Africa. The first is the gradual shift in the use of the criminal law to suppress political violence and translating these processes into the civilian sphere. The second is the highly selective use of international criminal law to address mass atrocities. For decolonization to be authentic to a wide body of critical African theories, a true epistemic break from knowledges embedded in legal, political, and humanitarian institutions formed in the Global North is required.
Simulation-Based Education in Physical Therapist Education: A Survey of Current Practice
Authors: Stockert Brad , Macauley Kelly , Bradford Jacque , Gorman Sharon L , Greenwood Kristin Curry , Nordon-Craft Amy , Quiben Myla , Rucker Jason , Silberman Nicki
Published: October 2022

Objectives

The purposes of this study were to describe the current use of (1) simulation in student physical therapist professional education programs and (2) standards of best practice (SOBP) for simulation-based education (SBE) in physical therapist education.

Methods

Two surveys were created about current use of SBE in student physical therapist professional education programs in the United States. The first survey contained questions about the program, including the best contact person regarding simulation. The second survey investigated simulation use within the context of SOBP. Survey data were analyzed using descriptive statistics.

Results

Survey 1 was sent to the program director at all fully accredited physical therapist programs (N = 236), and 143 responses were returned (61% response rate). Survey 2 was sent to the 136 individuals identified in Survey 1, and we received 81 completed surveys (60%). Over 90% of programs reported including SBE in their curricula, with 86% providing 3 or more experiences. A median of 1 core faculty at each program reported training in SBE, but 23% reported no training. A lack of training in specific elements of the SOBP for SBE was reported by 40% to 50% of faculty. Limited use of SOBP was reported, and use of outcome measures without validation was common.

Conclusion

Although SBE is commonly used in physical therapist education, many faculties (1) do not have training in SBE, (2) do not consistently follow the SOBP, and (3) utilize unvalidated outcome measures. Limited faculty training in SBE and inconsistent inclusion of the SOBP suggest student learning in simulation is not optimized.

Impact

These results show that, despite increased use of simulation in physical therapist education programs, there is a dearth of faculty trained in SBE and inconsistent use of SOBP. Addressing these deficiencies could help to optimize the benefits of SBE in physical therapist education.
Revisiting idiopathic eosinophilic myositis: towards a clinical-pathological continuum from the muscle to the fascia and skin
Authors: Fermon Cécile , Lessard Lola E R , Fenouil Tanguy , Meyer Alain , Faruch-Bilfeld Marie , Robert Marie , Landel Verena , Hot Arnaud , Authier François-Jérôme , Streichenberger Nathalie , Gallay Laure
Published: October 2022

Objectives

Idiopathic inflammatory myopathies are mainly defined by inflammatory infiltrates within the muscle (lymphocytes and macrophages). Eosinophil muscle infiltration has been described in idiopathic eosinophilic myositis (IEM) and rarely in EF. This study aimed to further delineate the nosological frame of idiopathic eosinophil muscle infiltration through the exhaustive analysis of IEM and EF patients.

Methods

This multicentre retrospective case series included IEM patients diagnosed between 2000 and 2022. IEM inclusion criteria were eosinophilic muscle infiltration with myositis pathological features, after the exclusion of differential diagnoses. An additional group of EF patients diagnosed between 2016 and 2022 was constituted. Inclusion criteria were an EF diagnosis and fascia thickening with inflammatory infiltrate.

Results

A total of 20 IEM cases and 10 EF cases were included. The median (interquartile range) age at diagnosis was 65 (49–70) years; there were 18 males. Data analysis delineated four subgroups: focal EM (FEM, n = 3), diffuse EM (DEM, n = 6), eosinophilic myofasciitis (EMF, n = 11) and EF (n = 10). FEM represented a limited and benign form of myositis. DEM cases presented objective muscle impairment with eosinophilic muscle infiltration. EMF patients presented subjective muscle impairment (myalgia, 55%), fasciitis (on histology and/or imaging), eosinophilic muscle infiltration and frequent hypereosinophilia (55%). EF patients presented myalgia (50%), muscle lesions on histology with fascia-restricted inflammatory infiltrates with (60%) or without (40%) eosinophils.

Conclusions

The analysis of IEM and EF patient characteristics delineates four subgroups (FEM, DEM, EMF and EF) in terms of clinical, laboratory, imaging, pathological and outcome specificities, and proposes an adapted diagnostic and care management approach.
Performance of an MRI scoring system for inflammation of joints and entheses in peripheral SpA: post-hoc analysis of the CRESPA trial
Authors: Krabbe Simon , Renson Thomas , Jans Lennart , Elewaut Dirk , Van den Bosch Filip , Carron Philippe , Østergaard Mikkel
Published: October 2022

Objectives

The aim of this study was to investigate the reliability, validity, and sensitivity to change of a novel MRI scoring system in early peripheral SpA (pSpA).

Methods

MRI of the pelvis and lower extremities was performed before initiation of the TNF inhibitor golimumab in 56 patients and repeated in 46 patients who achieved sustained clinical remission after 24, 36 or 48 weeks. Three readers applied a semi-quantitative MRI scoring system for lower-extremity joint and entheseal inflammation. Four lesion types were assessed: entheseal osteitis, entheseal soft-tissue inflammation, joint osteitis, and joint synovitis/effusion. MRI response was defined as a decrease in MRI lower-extremity inflammation index (sum of scores from 75 sites, each scored 0–3) above the smallest detectable change (SDC).

Results

At follow-up, the MRI index decreased in 34 of 46 patients (74%), and 15 (33%) patients achieved MRI response, i.e. a decrease above SDC of 2.8. When restricting the analysis to patients with clinical involvement of lower-extremity sites that were assessed by MRI, 13 of 28 (46%) achieved MRI response. Interreader reliability was very good, with an average-measure intraclass correlation coefficient of 0.92 (95% CI: 0.85–0.95) for status scores and 0.89 (0.80–0.94) for change in scores. The MRI index correlated with other measures of disease activity, including CRP [Spearman’s rho 0.41 (0.23–0.56)], swollen joint count of 6 joints [0.47 (0.27–0.63)], tender enthesis count of 14 entheses [0.32 (0.12–0.50)] and pain score [0.28 (0.08–0.46)], all P < 0.05.

Conclusion

The proposed MRI lower-extremity inflammation index demonstrated reliability, validity, and sensitivity to change in patients with early pSpA.

Trial registration

Clinicaltrials.gov, http://clinicaltrials.gov, NCT01426815.