bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On the Energy Budget of Starquake-induced Repeating Fast Radio Bursts
Authors: Wang 王 Wei-Yang 维扬 , Zhang 张 Chen 晨 , Zhou 周 Enping 恩平 , Liu 刘 Xiaohui 小辉 , Niu 牛 Jiarui 佳瑞 , Zhou 周 Zixuan 子轩 , Gao 高 He 鹤 , Liu 刘 Jifeng 继峰 , Xu 徐 Renxin 仁新 , Zhang 张 Bing 冰
Published: August 2024

With a growing sample of fast radio bursts (FRBs), we investigate the energy budget of different power sources within the framework of magnetar starquake triggering mechanism. During a starquake, the energy can be released in any form through strain, magnetic, rotational, and gravitational energies. The strain energy can be converted from three other kinds of energy during starquakes. The following findings are revealed: (1) The crust can store free magnetic energy of ∼1046 erg by existing toroidal fields, sustaining 106 bursts with frequent starquakes occurring due to crustal instability. (2) The strain energy develops as a rigid object spins down, which can be released during a global starquake accompanied by a glitch. However, it takes a long time to accumulate enough strain energy via spindown. (3) The rotational energy of a magnetar with P ≲ 0.1 s can match the energy and luminosity budget of FRBs. (4) The budget of the total gravitational energy is high, but the mechanism and efficiency of converting this energy to radiation deserve further exploration.
Sunspot Group Detection and Classification by Dual Stream Convolutional Neural Network Method
Authors: Mkwanda Nyasha Mariam , Tian Weixin , Li Junlin
Published: August 2024

The automatic detection and analysis of sunspots play a crucial role in understanding solar dynamics and predicting space weather events. This paper proposes a novel method for sunspot group detection and classification called the dual stream Convolutional Neural Network with Attention Mechanism (DSCNN-AM). The network consists of two parallel streams each processing different input data allowing for joint processing of spatial and temporal information while classifying sunspots. It takes in the white light images as well as the corresponding magnetic images that reveal both the optical and magnetic features of sunspots. The extracted features are then fused and processed by fully connected layers to perform detection and classification. The attention mechanism is further integrated to address the “edge dimming” problem which improves the model’s ability to handle sunspots near the edge of the solar disk. The network is trained and tested on the SOLAR-STORM1 data set. The results demonstrate that the DSCNN-AM achieves superior performance compared to existing methods, with a total accuracy exceeding 90%.
Entropic uncertainty relations and entanglement detection from quantum designs
Authors: Zhao Yundu , Huang Shan , Wu Shengjun
Published: August 2024

Uncertainty relations and quantum entanglement are pivotal concepts in quantum theory. Beyond their fundamental significance in shaping our understanding of the quantum world, they also underpin crucial applications in quantum information theory. In this article, we investigate entropic uncertainty relations and entanglement detection with an emphasis on quantum measurements with design structures. On the one hand, we derive improved Rényi entropic uncertainty relations for design-structured measurements, exploiting the property that the sum of powered (e.g. squared) probabilities of obtaining different measurement outcomes is now invariant under unitary transformations of the measured system and can be easily computed. On the other hand, the above property essentially imposes a state-independent upper bound, which is achieved at all pure states, on one’s ability to predict local outcomes when performing a set of design-structured measurements on quantum systems. Realizing this, we also obtain criteria for detecting multipartite entanglement with design-structured measurements.
Evaluating environmental and economic efficiency of a super-intensive Vannamei shrimp farm for nutrient flow circulation
Authors: Thi Phuong Thao Nguyen , Van Tung Tra , Le Minh Tri Nguyen , Viet Thang Nguyen , Thanh Hai Le , Thi Thu Thao Nguyen , Quoc An Nguyen
Published: August 2024

Shrimp farming has provided several significant economic benefits to the residents of the Mekong Delta region. However, it posed numerous environmental concerns due to high nutrient content in wastes. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to assess the nutrient recovery efficiency from a super-intensive shrimp pond system for nutrient circulation. The material flow analysis tool was used to analyze the effectiveness of allocating nutrients (nitrogen, phosphorus, and carbon) in the research area’s super-intensive Vannamei shrimp farming system, and then construct a material flow circulating system. The findings revealed that in the current system, the amount of nutrients that shrimp absorb is 26.3% TN, 12.2% TP and 17.5% TOC. This study designed a system using circulating fluxes of nutrients. This system combines settling ponds and biological sedimentation ponds as well as composting and biogas digester solutions. The proposed system also reduces input nutrient costs by 53.6% TN, 62.8% TP and 40% TOC. On the other hand, the proposed system will meet the amount of heat for cooking for the 3 households and generate 1 ton of compost/crop for the garden.
Adsorption of Arsenate from Water by Iron-Chitosan Modified Fly Ash
Authors: Tran V Q , Nguyen T N , Nguyen T H , Tran V S
Published: August 2024

Group F fly ash which was obtained from Pha Lai Thermal Power Plant (Hai Duong, Vietnam) is used as a raw material for zeolite preparation. CTS-ZFA-Fe3O4 adsorbent is a zeolite composite material combined with chitosan modified with iron salts to remove As(V) from water. The granules have advantages such as biodegradability, economy and ease of separation. SEM, FTIR and XRF methods are utilized to characterize the material. The experimental data showed that the material was successfully modified by adding iron oxide and amine group from chitosan. These functional groups contributed significantly to the improvement of As(V) adsorption in solution. Furthermore, the bond of C=N is obtained from the cross-linking reaction between glutaraldehyde and chitosan improve structure of adsorbent. From batch experiments, it was found that the material could adsorb As(V) at pH 3 optimally, reaching an adsorption capacity of 160 μg/g. As(V) was completely adsorbed by CTS-ZFA-Fe3O4 material at the dosage of 10g/L and reached equilibrium after 180 min. Since then, the As(V) adsorption mechanism is related to electrostatic interactions between As(V) anions with OH2
+ and NH3
+ (positively charged groups) existing on the adsorbent’s surface at low pH conditions. Moreover, the formation of arsenic complexes (As-N, As(V)-Fe) is also believed to be the adsorption mechanism of post-modified zeolite materials.
Physiological and Psychological Effects of Walking in and Viewing Autumn Forests in Urban Park in Japanese and Indonesian Adults
Authors: Pratiwi PI , Xiang Q , Xie Z
Published: August 2024

Park therapy can improve mental health and reduce stress levels. We investigated how walking in and viewing autumn forests affected people’s physiological and psychological responses. The experiments were carried out on one walking route to one viewing point in urban park and city street and involved 20 adults. Blood pressure and heart rate were monitored to evaluate physiological effects, while the Profile of Mood States and the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory were employed to assess psychological effects. Walking along the edge of an autumn forest may have resulted in a lower heart rate and systolic blood pressure than walking in the city street. The average heart rate of Japanese adults was significantly lower than that of Indonesians. All negative mood states were lower; vigor was higher after viewing autumn forests in Indonesians than in Japanese. Confusion, tension, and total mood disturbance were lower in Japanese than in Indonesians after viewing the autumn forest. The anxiety level was lower after walking among Indonesians and viewing the autumn forest among all adults. Finally, walking in and viewing autumn forests in an urban park leads to physiological and psychological relaxation.
Bird Habitat Suitability Analysis of The New City Centre Gede Bage Bandung Using Landscape Metrics
Authors: Hutriani I W
Published: August 2024

One focus of landscape ecology studies is the study of landscape patterns. Understanding the landscape patterns can help to find suitable habitat for the development or restoration of wildlife habitats, which can partly be expressed quantitatively with measurable or computable indicators by Geographic Information System, i.e. landscape metrics. This paper aims to analyze suitable habitat for bird habitat in The New City Centre in Gede Bage Bandung using statistical relationships between the occurrence of birds and the landscape pattern. Our study focus on habitat for Javan Pond Heron (A. speciosa) and Cattle Egret (B. ibis), two bird species which has been lived since 1970 in Ranca Bayawak Village inside The New City Centre Gede Bage Bandung. This study using landscape metrics software FRAGSTAT 4.2, parameter characterising landscape pattern were determined for the UTM 4 km x 4 km cells covering the whole of The New City Centre Gede Bage Bandung. The characteristic bird habitat define based on three types of landscape pattern : built-up areas, green spaces and water bodies. The study results based on statistical calculations found green spaces landscape metrics especially paddy field, forest and green open spaces are suitable for bird habitat, the type of patch that has the second largest patch size from total area. From statistical calculations also known built-up areas landscape metrics has the highest probability of fragmentation and the highest edge effect as a result of The New City Centre Gede Bage Bandung development.
Ann Prediction of Mechanical Properties of GGBFS and Alccofine Based High Strenth Self-Compacting Concrete
Authors: Tabassum Nazia , Bowaj Abhishek J , Vijay Manu , Naveen Kumar S M , Kabeer Ahmed Shaik , Akihla CG
Published: August 2024

In this study, we use Artificial Neural Networks (ANN) and Multiple Regression Analysis to evaluate the prediction of two crucial self-compacting concrete properties: compressive strength and split tensile strength. It was possible to create four different datasets, each of which had different concrete mix proportions along with their respective ages in days, compressive strengths (MPa), and split tensile strengths (MPa). Separate ANN models and Regression models were trained and tested using these datasets. As a gauge of prediction accuracy, Mean Squared Error (MSE) was used to assess the performance of the models. This study offers insightful information on the application of multiple regression analysis and artificial neural networks to forecast the characteristics of self-compacting concrete using GGBS and Alccofine. Here Alccofine functions as an additive and GGBS acts as a partial substitute for cement at 0 to 60% with a fluctuation of 10%. The outcomes highlight the potential of neural networks as a tool for concrete mix design optimization and quality control since they can capture complex correlations between input variables and concrete strength.
Review on Performance of Nano Silica and GGBS Blended Self Compacting Concrete
Authors: Karanth Mr. Pradeep , Srindhi Mr. P.
Published: August 2024

Concrete has a very significant impact on the atmosphere since Ordinary Portland cement one of the raw material during its production process produces carbon dioxide in large amounts. The impact of concrete structures on the environment may lessen by augmenting the robustness and resilience. The Nano-level arrangement of concrete may be altered by adding a tiny amount of Nano-silica (NS). Since NS forms a paste of calcium silicate-hydrate (C-S-H) through a pozzolanic reaction with calcium hydroxide, it has amassed significant attention when compared to other Nano materials by successfully densifying and strengthening the concrete’s matrix. The present review paper focuses on examining the effects of NS and ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBS) in various concentrations on the fresh and mechanical properties of Self Compacting Concrete(SCC). It is predicted that this review article will yield fresh concepts for the beneficial use of NS and GGBS in the construction sector and for future research in the field.
Prediction of ferromagnetism in GaN:Ag and SiC:Ag nanotubes
Authors: Jafarova Vusala Nabi , Rzayeva Sevda Sabir , Scurtu Ionut Cristian , Stanca Costel , Acomi Nicoleta , Raicu Gabriel
Published: August 2024

Ferromagnetism in single-walled (6,0) GaN(SiC):Ag nanotubes were studied based on ab initio simulations within a pseudopotential method. For the GaN:Ag single-walled nanosystems, the width of the band gap reduces with the increase of dopant concentration. While Ag-doped SiC nanotubes, the band gap of majority-spin states decrease and these systems show metallic character. The first-principles results of total energies for SiC(GaN):Ag nanotubes predicted the stability of the ferromagnetic and antiferromagnetic phase, respectively. The obtained values of total magnetic moments of Ag-GaN and Ag-SiC systems are ∼2.0 and ∼3.2 μB, respectively. The analysis of the results of density of states show the significant contribution to the magnetization of both defected GaN:Ag and SiC:Ag systems come from three nitrogen and carbon atoms which are bonded with the dopant. First-principles investigation, suggest that the SiC(GaN):Ag nanotubes can be made into magnetic materials, and these are promising candidates for electronic, optoelectronic, and spintronic devices.
Study on properties of alkali activated titanium gypsum artificial aggregate concrete
Authors: Guo Lixia , Wang Hao , Zhong Ling , Zhang Jianwei
Published: August 2024

In order to solve the problem of raw material shortage and solid waste disposal in the construction industry, titanium gypsum was used as raw material to prepare titanium gypsum artificial aggregate by alkali-activated cold bonding. The physical properties and microstructure of aggregates were studied, they were used to replace natural aggregates in unfired bricks. The unburned aggregate of ternary cementitious material system (titanium gypsum, cement, silica fume) was designed, and the best artificial aggregate ratio was selected by physical performance analysis, XRD and SEM analysis. The unburned bricks were prepared by replacing natural gravel with different replacement rates. The physical properties and durability were analyzed by physical test, dry and wet cycle test, and the best utilization method was sought. Main research contents and conclusions: (1) When the ratio of titanium gypsum: cement: silica fume = 7: 2: 1, NaOH: CaO = 1: 1 as the activator, the comprehensive performance of artificial aggregate is the best. According to XRD and SEM analysis, the main products in the titanium gypsum artificial aggregate system are C-S-H and AFt. (2) The compressive strength of the unburned brick prepared by titanium gypsum artificial aggregate completely replacing natural gravel reached 31.40 MPa, and the water absorption rate was 10.18 %. The unburned brick specimens with different substitution rates showed good dry-wet cycle resistance after 15 dry-wet cycles.
On compact complex surfaces with finite homotopy rank-sum
Authors: Biswas Indranil , Hajra Buddhadev
Published: August 2024

A topological space (not necessarily simply connected) is said to have finite homotopy rank-sum if the sum of the ranks of all higher homotopy groups (from the second homotopy group onward) is finite. In this article, we characterize the smooth compact complex Kähler surfaces having finite homotopy rank-sum. We also prove the Steinness of the universal cover of these surfaces assuming holomorphic convexity of the universal cover.
Hamiltonian stationary Lagrangian surfaces with non-negative Gaussian curvature in Kähler-Einstein surfaces
Authors: Coulibaly Patrik
Published: August 2024

In this paper, we give some simple conditions under which a Hamiltonian stationary Lagrangian submanifold of a Kähler-Einstein manifold must have a Euclidean factor or be a fiber bundle over a circle. We also characterize the Hamiltonian stationary Lagrangian surfaces whose Gaussian curvature is non-negative and whose mean curvature vector is in some

L
p

L^p

space when the ambient space is a simply connected complex space form.
Sobolev spaces on locally finite graphs
Authors: Shao Mengqiu , Yang Yunyan , Zhao Liang
Published: August 2024

In this paper, we focus on the theory of Sobolev spaces on locally finite graphs, including completeness, reflexivity, separability and Sobolev inequalities. We introduce a linear space composed of vector-valued functions with variable dimensions such that the gradients of functions on graphs happen to fit into such a space and we can get the desired properties of various Sobolev spaces along this line. Moreover, we also derive several Sobolev inequalities under certain assumptions on measures or weights of graphs. Although these results are within the framework of functional analysis, the key is that we provide an appropriate perspective for applying variational methods on graphs. As fundamental analytical tools, all these results are highly applicable and useful for partial differential equations on locally finite graphs.
On the strong maximum principle for fully nonlinear parabolic equations of second order
Authors: Goffi Alessandro
Published: August 2024

We provide a proof of strong maximum and minimum principles for fully nonlinear uniformly parabolic equations of second order. The approach is of parabolic nature and does not exploit the parabolic Harnack inequality.
The Politics of the Self
Authors: Lenman James
Published: August 2024

This chapter focuses on certain central features of ourselves which play a key role in the constitution of normativity. In particular it focuses on the fact that our desires and concerns are pervasively subject to conflict both interpersonally and intrapersonally and the fact that our desires and concerns relate not just to our present but to our lives over time. Sometimes we choose to act in ways we come to regret, in ways that give purchase in our normative thought to ideas of error, of getting things wrong, or right. We endeavour to avoid error and manage conflict by reflecting and deliberating on our desires and concerns, seeking to arrive at and sustain a coherent understanding of what is most important to us that is stable under reflective scrutiny and can guide us in seeking to live lives we can live with living, that can bear our survey. In doing this we are pursuing coherence, but we cannot and should not follow Kantians who would make of coherence a kind of master value. The concerns that shape our deliberation are not merely formal but substantive and grounded in the contingencies of our normative sensibilities. The chapter concludes with a critical discussion of Christine Korsgaard’s influential Kant-inspired understanding of normativity as grounded in the pursuit of coherence which she takes to be constitutive of agency.
Tenth Century I
Authors: Howard-Johnston James
Published: August 2024

The most serious domestic crisis in the age of revival took the form of a challenge to the crown from the powerful, a hybrid aristocracy of servants and ex-servants of the state who had acquired landed estates in the provinces. It played out in all three zones of Asia Minor but mainly in the interior plateau. The integrity of the peasant village was threatened and there was a danger that the powerful might interpose themselves between the centre and the localities. Of the various weapons available to the crown (control over appointments, legislation, the security services), two of the most effective were increased wealth from its monopolization of vacated lands in conquered emirates and the creation of a counterweight to the indigenous powerful of the plateau by resettlement of client Armenian princes and their followings on crown lands.
Sacrifice and Modern War Writing
Authors: Houen Alex
Published: August 2024

This book surveys how Anglophone war writing explores sacrifice in relation to major conflicts of the twentieth and twenty-first centuries: the First World War; the Irish ‘Easter Rising’ and Anglo-Irish War; the Spanish Civil War; the Second World War; the Vietnam War; the Cold War; and the War on Terror. Various conceptions of sacrifice are examined, including Christian, Jewish, Islamic, and secular, and the discussion ranges across literary portrayals of multiple sacrificial practices, including martyrdom, scapegoating, and ancient practices of child sacrifice. Writings by over 110 authors are discussed, and the book builds an interdisciplinary approach to how war, sacrifice, and their representations interrelate. A wide range of literature is analysed, including novels, memoirs, short stories, essays, manifestoes, elegies, ballads, and lyric poetry. The survey develops chronologically across the book’s three Parts: Part I, on Reprising Ancient Sacrifice in Modern War; Part II on Militant Martyrdoms; and Part III, on Sacrifice’s Gifts and Prices – the latter having a particular focus on secular economizations of sacrifice. While critics and theorists have tended to emphasize that war’s reality exceeds any attempt to represent it, the central contention of this book is that political, religious, and cultural frames of sacrifice have continued to play a significant part in shaping how war’s reality is shaped and experienced. Those frames are inextricably tied to modes of representation, which include symbolism and mimesis. The book explores how sacrificial killing in war is itself riddled with symbolic transfigurations and mimetic exchanges, and it develops a novel approach by arguing that the figurative and imaginative aspects of literary writing ironically become its very means of engaging closely with the reality of war’s sacrifices.
Introducing the Volume on Fiscal Policy and Public Financial Management
Authors: Chakraborty Pinaki , Shanmugam K R
Published: August 2024

This chapter provides an introduction and overview to the volume. A summary view of the collection of essays on various themes related to fiscal policy and public financial management is offered in this chapter, bringing out the complexity of public financial management in India. The chapter provides key insight into the emerging issues in public financial management, including climate finance and climate change. Issues related to intergovernmental fiscal transfers and federalism, tax policy in a federal system, management of debt and deficit at the Union and State level have been discussed in the context of evolving policy, post-covid economic shocks and rising macroeconomic uncertainties.
Tax Evasion and Unaccounted Incomes
Authors: Sapre Amey
Published: August 2024

This chapter presents a theoretical approach to tax evasion. The chapter builds on the conventional approach to tax evasion and incorporates a game theoretic approach to analyse an individual’s decision to engage in tax evasion. The simple repeated game between a taxpayer and a tax authority is presented in the results that the probabilities of audit and penalty rate are inversely related and, beyond a threshold penalty rate, the taxpayer has no incentive to evade. These are used to analyse and provide insights on the conventional approach of analysing tax evasion.
Project Appraisal and Alternative Sources of Funding
Authors: Somasundaram L
Published: August 2024

Infrastructure as part of public finance has seen a transformation, with larger private participation. The role of the public sector has become complex from the governance perspective, which has to ensure complete project appraisals and stakeholder engagement. This chapter puts into perspective the importance of appraisals to the viability of infrastructure projects. It presents a few important cases in the Indian context, both successful and failed. These highlight the importance of appraisals, risk evaluation, and risk management. The chapter culminates with the introduction of blended finance model, which is designed to ensure sustainability and achieve positive impacts.
Recent and anticipated novel drug approvals (3Q 2024 through 2Q 2025)
Authors: Rim Matthew H , Dean Collin , Aliaj Enela , Karas Brittany L , Barada Farah , Levitsky Andrew M
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Health-system pharmacists play a crucial role in monitoring the pharmaceutical pipeline to manage formularies, allocate resources, and optimize clinical programs for new therapies. This article aims to support pharmacists by sharing new and anticipated novel drug approvals.

Selected drug approvals anticipated in the 12-month period covering the third quarter of 2024 through the second quarter of 2025 are reviewed. The analysis emphasizes drugs expected to have significant clinical and financial impact in hospitals and clinics selected from 54 novel drugs awaiting US Food and Drug Administration approval. New cell therapies for treating cancers continue to enter the drug pipeline, while novel targeted therapies for biliary tract, gastric, pancreatic, and breast cancers, as well as 3 subcutaneous versions of already approved drugs given intravenously, are awaiting approval. Additionally, many novel drugs are being developed for treatment of rare and ultra-rare diseases such as hereditary angioedema, macular telangiectasia, congenital adrenal hyperplasia, and Barth syndrome. Two new subcutaneous drugs for hemophilia, a new oral medication for hereditary angioedema, a novel monoclonal antibody for atopic dermatitis, and the first oral penem antibiotic are also in the pipeline.

Conclusion

New drugs with various indications for cancers and rare diseases continue to strengthen the drug pipeline.
Efficacy and safety of biologics for the treatment of moderate-to-severe psoriasis in older adults: a single-centre Italian experience
Authors: Viviani Filippo , Spazzoli Giorgio , Clarizio Giacomo , Piraccini Bianca Maria , Bardazzi Federico
Published: August 2024

Background

Demographic changes lead to a number of issues regarding the biological treatment of older patients with moderate-to-severe psoriasis.

Objectives

To investigate the efficacy and safety of biologics in older adults, substratifying the population based on age, comorbidities and previous therapies over a longer timespan (> 60 weeks).

Methods

A retrospective, single-centre study was conducted with patients aged ≥ 65 years with moderate-to-severe psoriasis who had been undergoing treatment with biologic drugs for > 60 weeks.

Results

Data for 130 patients aged ≥ 65 years with moderate-to-severe psoriasis undergoing biologic therapy were reviewed: 45 were women and with a mean age of 73.23 years (SD 6.53). The decline in mean Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI), body surface area, Dermatology Life Quality Index and Nail Psoriasis Severity Index values over the 60 weeks of treatment was found to be statistically significant at each interval (P < 0.05). Multivariate statistical analysis showed that nearly all the independent variables considered did not influence the response to therapy in terms of PASI score reduction, except for psoriatic arthritis (P = 0.03). We observed a better response in the youngest-old group (aged 65–74 years), with 73% (59/81 patients) achieving ≥ 75% reduction in PASI (PASI 75) and 72% (58/81 patients) achieving PASI 90 and PASI 100 at the 60th week of treatment. The worst result was obtained in the middle-old group (75–84 years old), with 60.0% (24/40 patients) reaching PASI 75 at the end of follow-up, whereas the oldest-old group (≥ 85 years) had a more mixed performance.

Conclusions

The results obtained seem to indicate greater efficacy of anti-tumour necrosis factor-alpha drugs, followed by the other classes of interleukin inhibitors. These results could provide a starting point for new and larger studies and guidelines for biologic treatment.
Effects of Meyerozyma guilliermondii PJ15 on the biocontrol of Penicillium crustosum causing postharvest decay in Orah and its influence on the microbial diversity of Orah
Authors: Ye Liujian , Wang Xiaohu , Han Jialin , He Shuang , Wei Shengbo , Zhu Qixia , Meng Jianzong , Zhou Liqin
Published: August 2024

Objectives

This study aims to isolate biocontrol microorganisms that inhibit Penicillium crustosum and explore their effects on microbial control and microbial diversity changes in P. crustosum causing postharvest decay in Orah.

Materials and Methods

The biocontrol effect was verified by confrontation experiments. The microbial diversity was analyzed using high-throughput sequencing technology. Metabolomic analysis was performed using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS).

Results

A strain of Meyerozyma guilliermondii PJ15 that strongly inhibited P. crustosum was isolated from the grape surface, which could effectively inhibit the mycelial growth and green spore production of P. crustosum. PJ15 could reduce the sourness and nutrient loss of Orah caused by P. crustosum. Compared with the control, PJ15 treatment increased the pH by 11.32%, the soluble protein content by 163.64%, the ascorbic acid content by 160.84%, and the total soluble sugar content by 203.53%. Microbial diversity analysis showed that PJ15 has a relatively small effect on the bacterial composition and diversity on the surface of Orah but has a significant impact on the fungal composition and diversity. It can increase the fungal diversity of Orah invaded by P. crustosum, increase the density of fungal interaction networks, and form a stronger coexisting survival interaction network. The vaccination of PJ15 downregulated the differential metabolite 5,6-epoxytetraene, which showed a positive correlation with P. crustosum and a negative correlation with PJ15.

Conclusions

Meyerozyma guilliermondii PJ15 has a strong inhibitory effect on the growth of P. crustosum and has a significant impact on the fungal composition and diversity on the surface of Orah. It has potential for biocontrol of P. crustosum causing postharvest decay in Orah.
Transformation of meiotic drive into hybrid sterility in Drosophila
Authors: Bladen Jackson , Nam Hyuck-Jin , Phadnis Nitin
Published: August 2024

Hybrid male sterility is one of the fastest evolving intrinsic reproductive barriers between recently isolated populations. A leading explanation for the evolution of hybrid male sterility involves genomic conflicts with meiotic drivers in the male germline. There are, however, few examples directly linking meiotic drive to hybrid sterility. In this study, we report that the Sex-Ratio chromosome of Drosophila pseudoobscura, which causes X-chromosome drive within the USA subspecies, causes near-complete male sterility when it is moved into the genetic background of the Bogota subspecies. In addition, we show that this new form of sterility is genetically distinct from the sterility of F1 hybrid males in crosses between USA males and Bogota females. Our observations provide a tractable study system where noncryptic drive within species is transformed into strong hybrid sterility between very young subspecies.
Accessibility of diabetes education in the United States: barriers, policy implications, and the road ahead
Authors: Tharakan Anna , McPeek Hinz Eugenia , Zhu Emelia , Denmeade Brad , German Jashalynn , Huang Wei Angel , Brucker Amanda , Rinker Joanne , Memering Chris , Spratt Susan
Published: August 2024

Diabetes Self-Management Education and Support (DSMES) programs are an effective, yet underutilized, resource to improve health outcomes and behaviors for people with diabetes. We examined the attendance and referral rates for people with diabetes to DSMES classes at an academic medical center, noting a 10% referral rate and 37% completion rate for those referred. We identified barriers to DSMES care at patient, provider, and health system levels. Current technology platforms and training fail to prioritize referrals to diabetes education; providers and people with diabetes are often unfamiliar with program content and benefits. Scheduling mechanisms often delay or lose interested patients in receiving vital education. Existing Medicare reimbursement strategies limit expansion of DSMES programs, generating significant wait times and limit capabilities for Diabetes Care and Education Specialists. We identify potential policy solutions and recommend alterations to existing referral and scheduling systems to expand existing technology platforms for DSMES programs and shift reimbursement policies to individualize and better support care for persons with diabetes.
Meta-analysis of the Therapeutic Impact of Cannabinoids in Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: Kang Hansol , Schmoyer Christopher J , Weiss Alexandra , Lewis James D
Published: August 2024

Background

With the increasing legalization of medical and recreational cannabis, patients and providers have growing interest in the role of cannabinoids in treating inflammatory bowel disease. Prior meta-analysis has shown inconclusive evidence for efficacy of cannabinoids. We sought to produce an up-to-date meta-analysis that pools new data to evaluate the therapeutic effects of cannabinoids in both Crohn’s disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC).

Methods

PubMed, Embase, CENTRAL and CINAHL were queried for randomized-controlled trials evaluating the impact cannabinoids in CD or UC. Random effects modeling was used to compute pooled estimates of risk difference. Heterogeneity was assessed using I2.

Results

Eight studies, including 4 studies of CD, 3 studies of UC, and 1 study of both diseases met inclusion criteria. Among 5 studies of CD, a statistically significant decrease in clinical disease activity following intervention was observed (risk ratios [RR],  −0.91; 95% CI, CI:1.54 to CI:0.28, I2 = 71.9%). Clinical disease activity in UC was not significantly lower in the pooled analysis (RR, −2.13; 95% CI, −4.80 to 0.55; I2 = 90.3%). Improvement in quality of life (QoL) was observed in both CD and UC combined (RR, 1.79; 95% CI, 0.92-0.2.66; I2 = 82.8%), as well as individually. No differences were observed in the analysis on endoscopic disease activity and inflammatory markers.

Conclusions

This meta-analysis of clinical trials suggests that cannabinoids are associated with improved quality of life in both CD and UC, as well as improved disease activity but not inflammation.
Recent Advances in the Mechanistic Understanding of Avian Responses to Environmental Challenges
Authors: Gerson Alexander R , Elowe Cory , Stager Maria
Published: August 2024

Synopsis

Endothermic species have evolved strategies to maximize survival in highly variable or extreme environments. Birds are exemplary as they are among the most widely distributed endotherms on the planet, living in all manner of inhospitable environments. As an example, winter in temperate regions is characterized by cold temperatures and low food availability. Some birds have evolved to tolerate these conditions by seasonally increasing thermogenic capacity, increasing heterothermy, and displaying highly flexible phenotypes. Other species have evolved to avoid the inhospitable conditions of winter altogether by migrating—again requiring a unique set of physiological adaptations that allow success in this challenging endeavor. In these examples and in many others, the organismal requirements for success share similarities, but the underlying mechanisms, physiological requirements, and selection on those traits can differ significantly, as can their ecological and evolutionary impacts. In recent years, a suite of novel and established tools has become widely available and more accessible, allowing insights into long-standing questions. Genomic tools, new approaches to measure organismal performance, the use of citizen science data, easier access to metabolite assays or hormone detection, to name a few, have spurred rapid advances in our understanding of avian physiology. These new tools have been leveraged to investigate important questions regarding avian responses to our rapidly changing climate in an attempt to understand species resilience and limits.
The data quality problem (in the European Financial Data Space)
Authors: Borowicz M Konrad
Published: August 2024

By creating the European Financial Data Space (EFDS), the European Commission aims to foster the development of data-driven innovation in the financial sector. Artificial intelligence (AI) is the most notable innovation that could benefit from enhanced access to data through the EFDS. However, the current policy framework establishing the EFDS suffers from a major limitation—it neglects the question of data quality or whether the data shared in the EFDS will be fit for the purpose of the development of AI applications. The AI Act and General Data Protection Regulation could play a role in fostering data quality in this area, but the two frameworks are also unlikely to do that to a satisfactory extent. To address the data quality problem, this article proposes policymakers should develop a framework for data quality that encompasses both a conceptual and an organizational dimension aimed at promoting the free flow of high-quality data in the EFDS.
Clinical Application of Phage Immunoprecipitation Sequencing to Diagnose Enterovirus D68 as the Underlying Etiology in a Case of Guillain-Barré Syndrome
Authors: Li Fang Fang , Faber Alison , Caleta Jessica M , Goldfarb David M , Sekirov Inna , Prystajecky Natalie A , Srigley Jocelyn A , Mishaal Ram , Jassem Agatha N
Published: August 2024

Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) is an acute peripheral neuropathy often preceded by respiratory or gastrointestinal infections, though molecular testing of cerebrospinal fluid is often inconclusive. In a recent case of severe pediatric GBS in British Columbia, Canada, we detected cerebrospinal fluid antibodies against enterovirus D to link GBS with prior enterovirus D68 respiratory infection.
Dynamic Landscape of Mpox Importation Risks Driven by Heavy-Tailed Sexual Contact Networks Among Men Who Have Sex With Men in 2022
Authors: Jung Sung-mok , Miura Fuminari , Murayama Hiroaki , Funk Sebastian , Wallinga Jacco , Lessler Justin , Endo Akira
Published: August 2024

Background

During the 2022 global mpox outbreak, the cumulative number of countries reporting their first imported case quickly rose in the early phase, but the importation rate subsequently slowed down, leaving many countries reporting no cases by the 2022 year-end.

Methods

We developed a mathematical model of international dissemination of mpox infections incorporating sexual networks and global mobility data. We used this model to characterize the mpox importation patterns observed in 2022 and to discuss the potential of further international spread.

Results

Our proposed model better explained the observed importation patterns than models not assuming heterogeneity in sexual contacts. Estimated importation hazards decreased in most countries, surpassing the global case count decline, suggesting a reduced per-case risk of importation. We assessed each country's potential to export mpox cases until the end of an epidemic, identifying countries capable of contributing to the future international spread.

Conclusions

The accumulation of immunity among high-risk individuals over highly heterogeneous sexual networks may have contributed to the slowdown in the rate of mpox importations. Nevertheless, the existence of countries with the potential to contribute to the global spread of mpox highlights the importance of equitable resource access to prevent the global resurgence of mpox.
Pediatric Patients with Postburn Amputations Report Worse Long-term Physical Function but Not Self-Appearance: A Burn Model System Study
Authors: Choe Deborah , Humbert Andrew , Wolfe Erin , Stoycos Sarah A , Mandell Samuel , Stewart Barclay T , Carrougher Gretchen J , Kowalske Karen , Schneider Jeffrey C , Crandell David M , Yenikomshian Haig A
Published: August 2024

Some severe burn injuries may warrant amputation; however, the physical and functional adjustments resulting from postburn amputation can have long-term consequences. This study investigates longitudinal functional and psychosocial outcomes among pediatric burn amputees. Pediatric participants enrolled in the Burn Model System national longitudinal, multicenter database between 2015 and 2023 with postburn amputations were included. Participants with amputations were matched using nearest-neighbor matching to those without amputations based on burn location, age, and % total burn surface area burn size. Primary outcomes were the Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System Pediatric-25 Profile v2.0 Physical Function and the Children Burn Outcomes Questionnaire: appearance subscore, both measured at 6-, 12-, and 24 months postburn. In this study, 17 participants had amputations, and 17 did not (matched participants). Pairwise analyses at each timepoint found those with amputations reported significantly lower physical function scores at 24 months postburn (54.9 ± 11.6 vs 66 ± 5, P = .013). No significant differences were found in appearance scores. This study suggests that pediatric burn amputees may potentially face greater physical impairment long-term, highlighting an important area of research that deserves further attention.
Autosomal suppression of sex-ratio meiotic drive influences the dynamics of X and Y chromosome coevolution
Authors: Gupta Anjali , Unckless Robert L
Published: August 2024

Sex-ratio meiotic drivers are selfish genes or gene complexes that bias the transmission of sex chromosomes resulting in skewed sex ratios. Existing theoretical models have suggested the maintenance of a four-chromosome equilibrium (with driving and standard X and suppressing and susceptible Y) in a cyclic dynamic, but studies of natural populations have failed to capture this pattern. Although there are several plausible explanations for this lack of cycling, interference from autosomal suppressors has not been studied using a theoretical population genetic framework even though autosomal suppressors and Y-linked suppressors coexist in natural populations of some species. In this study, we use a simulation-based approach to investigate the influence of autosomal suppressors on the cycling of sex chromosomes. Our findings demonstrate that the presence of an autosomal suppressor can hinder the invasion of a Y-linked suppressor under some parameter space, thereby impeding the cyclic dynamics, or even the invasion of Y-linked suppression. Even when a Y-linked suppressor invades, the presence of an autosomal suppressor can prevent cycling. Our study demonstrates the potential role of autosomal suppressors in preventing sex chromosome cycling and provides insights into the conditions and consequences of maintaining both Y-linked and autosomal suppressors.
IL-18 primes T cells with an antigen-inexperienced memory phenotype for proliferation and differentiation into effector cells through Notch signaling
Authors: Li Wen , Jin Denan , Takai Shinji , Inoue Natsuko , Yamanishi Kyosuke , Tanaka Yoshimasa , Okamura Haruki
Published: August 2024

Recent studies have revealed that a subset of CD8+ T cells exhibit innate features and can be activated by cytokines. However, the precise mechanisms underlying the proliferation and differentiation of these cells remain unclear. Here, we demonstrated that CD44highCD8+ T cells in the mouse spleen express functional interleukin-18 (IL-18) receptors, whereas CD44lowCD8+ T cells do not. In response to IL-18 stimulation, these cells activated various metabolic pathways, upregulated the expression of surface molecules, such as c-Kit (CD117), CD25, and PD-1, and induced progression through the G1/S phase in the cell cycle. IL-18-primed cells, expressing a high-affinity receptor for IL-2, exhibited robust proliferation in response to IL-2 and underwent differentiation into effector cells. The splenic CD44highCD8+ T cells exhibited high expression levels of CD122, CD62L, CCR7, and CXCR3, along with CD5, indicating their potential for migration to the lymph nodes, where they could undergo expansion and terminal differentiation into effector cells. Additionally, in a tumor model, administration of IL-18 increased the accumulation of CD8+ T cells in both the lymph nodes and tumors. It is noteworthy that stimulation of CD44highCD8+ T cells with IL-18 upregulated the Notch-1 receptor and c-Myc. Moreover, inclusion of γ-secretase inhibitors attenuated the effect of IL-18 on both proliferation and interferon-γ production in the cells. These results demonstrate that IL-18 primes CD44highCD122highCXCR3highCD62LhighCD8+ T cells for expansion and differentiation into effector cells in a Notch signaling-dependent manner.
PHO1: linking phosphate nutrition translocation and floral signalling in plants
Authors: He Cunman , Shou Huixia
Published: August 2024

This article comments on:

Dai S, Chen H, Shi Y, Xiao X, Xu L, Qin C, Zhu Y, Yi K, Lei M, Zeng H. 2024. PHOSPHATE1-mediated phosphate translocation from roots to shoots regulates floral transition in plants. Journal of Experimental Botany 75, 5054–5075. https://doi.org/10.1093/jxb/erae222
ENPP1 induces blood–brain barrier dysfunction and promotes brain metastasis formation in human epidermal growth factor receptor 2-positive breast cancer
Authors: Santos Liliana , Tomatis Francesca , Ferreira Hugo R S , Almeida Sara F F , Ciputra Edward , Sereno José , Almeida Rui , Teixeira Paulo , Ribeiro Ana Sofia , Moreira João N , Silva Ana P , Ferreira Lino , Abrunhosa Antero J , Gomes Célia M
Published: August 2024

Background

Brain metastasis (BrM) is a devastating end-stage neurological complication that occurs in up to 50% of human epidermal growth factor receptor 2-positive (HER2+) breast cancer (BC) patients. Understanding how disseminating tumor cells manage to cross the blood–brain barrier (BBB) is essential for developing effective preventive strategies. We identified the ecto-nucleotidase ENPP1 (ectonucleotide pyrophosphatase/phosphodiesterase 1) as specifically enriched in the secretome of HER2+ brain metastatic cells, prompting us to explore its impact on BBB dysfunction and BrM formation.

Methods

We used in vitro BBB and in vivo premetastatic mouse models to evaluate the effect of tumor-secreted ENPP1 on brain vascular permeability. BBB integrity was analyzed by real-time fluorescence imaging of 20 kDa Cy7.5-dextran extravasation and immunofluorescence staining of adherens and tight junction proteins. Pro-metastatic effects of ENPP1 were evaluated in an experimental brain metastatic model.

Results

Systemically secreted ENPP1 from primary breast tumors impaired the integrity of BBB with loss of tight and adherens junction proteins early before the onset of BrM. Mechanistically, ENPP1 induced endothelial cell dysfunction by impairing insulin signaling and its downstream AKT/GSK3β/β-catenin pathway. Genetic ablation of ENPP1 from HER2+ brain metastatic cells prevented endothelial cell dysfunction and reduced metastatic burden while prolonging the overall and metastasis-free survival of mice. Furthermore, plasmatic ENPP1 levels correlate with brain metastatic burden and inversely with overall survival.

Conclusions

We demonstrated that metastatic BC cells exploit the ENPP1 signaling for cell transmigration across the BBB and brain colonization. Our data implicate ENPP1 as a potential biomarker for poor prognosis and early detection of BrM in HER2+ BC.