bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transient Zn
2+
deficiency induces replication stress and compromises daughter cell proliferation
Authors: Holtzen Samuel E. , Navid Elnaz , Kainov Joseph D. , Palmer Amy E.
Published: April 2024

Cells must replicate their genome quickly and accurately, and they require metabolites and cofactors to do so. Ionic zinc (Zn
2+
) is an essential micronutrient that is required for hundreds of cellular processes, including DNA synthesis and adequate proliferation. Deficiency in this micronutrient impairs DNA synthesis and inhibits proliferation, but the mechanism is unknown. Using fluorescent reporters to track single cells via long-term live-cell imaging, we find that Zn
2+
is required at the G1/S transition and during S phase for timely completion of S phase. A short pulse of Zn
2+
deficiency impairs DNA synthesis and increases markers of replication stress. These markers of replication stress are reversed upon resupply of Zn
2+
. Finally, we find that if Zn
2+
is chelated during the mother cell’s S phase, daughter cells enter a transient quiescent state, maintained by sustained expression of p21, which disappears upon reentry into the cell cycle. In summary, short pulses of mild Zn
2+
deficiency in S phase specifically induce replication stress, which causes downstream proliferation impairments in daughter cells.
Deficiency of IL-22–binding protein enhances the ability of the gut microbiota to protect against enteric pathogens
Authors: Fachi José L. , Di Luccia Blanda , Gilfillan Susan , Chang Hao-Wei , Song Christina , Cheng Jiye , Cella Marina , Vinolo Marco Aurelio , Gordon Jeffrey I. , Colonna Marco
Published: April 2024

Interleukin 22 (IL-22) promotes intestinal barrier integrity, stimulating epithelial cells to enact defense mechanisms against enteric infections, including the production of antimicrobial peptides. IL-22 binding protein (IL-22BP) is a soluble decoy encoded by the
Il22ra2
gene that decreases IL-22 bioavailability, attenuating IL-22 signaling. The impact of IL-22BP on gut microbiota composition and functioning is poorly understood. We found that

Il22ra2
–/–

mice are better protected against
Clostridioides difficile
and
Citrobacter rodentium
infections. This protection relied on IL-22-induced antimicrobial mechanisms before the infection occurred, rather than during the infection itself. Indeed, the gut microbiota of

Il22ra2
–/–

mice mitigated infection of wild-type (WT) mice when transferred via cohousing or by cecal microbiota transplantation. Indicator species analysis of WT and

Il22ra2
–/–

mice with and without cohousing disclosed that IL22BP deficiency yields a gut bacterial composition distinct from that of WT mice. Manipulation of dietary fiber content, measurements of intestinal short-chain fatty acids and oral treatment with acetate disclosed that resistance to
C. difficile
infection is related to increased production of acetate by

Il22ra2
–/–

-associated microbiota. Together, these findings suggest that IL-22BP represents a potential therapeutic target for those at risk for or with already manifest infection with this and perhaps other enteropathogens.
Development of porcine skeletal muscle extracellular matrix–derived hydrogels with improved properties and low immunogenicity
Authors: Barajaa Mohammed A. , Otsuka Takayoshi , Ghosh Debolina , Kan Ho-Man , Laurencin Cato T.
Published: April 2024

Hydrogels derived from decellularized extracellular matrices (ECM) of animal origin show immense potential for regenerative applications due to their excellent cytocompatibility and biomimetic properties. Despite these benefits, the impact of decellularization protocols on the properties and immunogenicity of these hydrogels remains relatively unexplored. In this study, porcine skeletal muscle ECM (smECM) underwent decellularization using mechanical disruption (MD) and two commonly employed decellularization detergents, sodium deoxycholate (SDC) or Triton X-100. To mitigate immunogenicity associated with animal-derived ECM, all decellularized tissues were enzymatically treated with α-galactosidase to cleave the primary xenoantigen—the α-Gal antigen. Subsequently, the impact of the different decellularization protocols on the resultant hydrogels was thoroughly investigated. All methods significantly reduced total DNA content in hydrogels. Moreover, α-galactosidase treatment was crucial for cleaving α-Gal antigens, suggesting that conventional decellularization methods alone are insufficient. MD preserved total protein, collagen, sulfated glycosaminoglycan, laminin, fibronectin, and growth factors more efficiently than other protocols. The decellularization method impacted hydrogel gelation kinetics and ultrastructure, as confirmed by turbidimetric and scanning electron microscopy analyses. MD hydrogels demonstrated high cytocompatibility, supporting satellite stem cell recruitment, growth, and differentiation into multinucleated myofibers. In contrast, the SDC and Triton X-100 protocols exhibited cytotoxicity. Comprehensive in vivo immunogenicity assessments in a subcutaneous xenotransplantation model revealed MD hydrogels’ biocompatibility and low immunogenicity. These findings highlight the significant influence of the decellularization protocol on hydrogel properties. Our results suggest that combining MD with α-galactosidase treatment is an efficient method for preparing low-immunogenic smECM-derived hydrogels with enhanced properties for skeletal muscle regenerative engineering and clinical applications.
Simulation of low-current DC discharges in longitudinal flows of atmospheric-pressure air
Authors: Babaeva N Yu , Naidis G V
Published: April 2024

Characteristics of low-current stationary axially symmetric discharges in longitudinal laminar flows of atmospheric-pressure air calculated in the framework of a two-dimensional model are presented. Non-equilibrium discharge regimes, in the current range from 1 to 100 mA, are considered for gas flow velocities up to 50 m s−1. It is shown that variation of the flow velocity substantially affects the discharge characteristics, such as the width of discharge column, the electric field inside the gap, the current density etc. Validity of the obtained results is confirmed by their comparison with available experimental data.
Massive white dwarfs in Rastall-Rainbow gravity
Authors: Li Jie , Yang Bo , Lin Wenbin
Published: April 2024

We explore the properties of white dwarfs within the framework of Rastall-Rainbow gravity. Employing the Chandrasekhar equation of state in conjunction with the modified Tolman-Oppenheimer-Volkoff equation, we calculate the mass-radius relations of white dwarfs. We also obtain the confidence levels for the Rastall-Rainbow parameters based on some observed white dwarfs. Numerical results show that Rastall-Rainbow gravity can not only align well with these observations, but also can account for the existence of the super-Chandrasekhar white dwarfs. In addition, the gravitational redshift, compactness and dynamical stability of white dwarfs are discussed in this modified gravitational theory.
Constraining dark energy cosmologies with spatial curvature using Supernovae JWST forecasting
Authors: Maldonado Alonso Pablo M. , Escamilla-Rivera Celia , Sandoval-Orozco Rodrigo
Published: April 2024

Recent cosmological tensions, in particular, to infer the local value of the Hubble constant H
0, have developed new independent techniques to constrain cosmological parameters in several cosmologies. Moreover, even when the concordance Cosmological Constant Cold Dark Matter (ΛCDM) model has been well constrained with local observables, its physics has shown deviations from a flat background. Therefore, to explore a possible deviation from a flat ΛCDM model that could explain the H
0 value in tension with other techniques, in this paper we study new cosmological constraints in spatial curvature dark energy models. Additionally, to standard current Supernovae Type Ia (SNIa) catalogs, we extend the empirical distance ladder method through an SNIa sample using the capabilities of the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) to forecast SNIa up to z ∼ 6, with information on the star formation rates at high redshift. Furthermore, we found that our constraints provide an improvement in the statistics associated with Ω
m
when combining SNIa Pantheon and SNIa Pantheon+ catalogs with JW forecasting data.
Influences of tilted thin accretion disks on the observational appearance of hairy black holes in Horndeski gravity
Authors: Hu Shiyang , Li Dan , Deng Chen , Wu Xin , Liang Enwei
Published: April 2024

Research on the observational appearance of black holes, both in general relativity and modified gravity, has been in full swing since the Event Horizon Telescope Collaboration announced photos of M87* and Sagittarius A*. Nevertheless, limited attention has been given to the impact of tilted accretion disks on black hole images. This paper investigates the 230 GHz images of non-rotating hairy black holes illuminated by tilted, thin accretion disks in Horndeski gravity with the aid of a ray tracing method. The results indicate that reducing the scalar hair parameter effectively diminishes image luminosity and extends both the critical curve and the inner shadow. This trend facilitates the differentiation between hairy black holes and Schwarzschild black holes, especially in certain parameter spaces where the current Event Horizon Telescope array is capable of capturing such variations. Furthermore, we observe that the inclination of the tilted accretion disk can mimic the observation angle, consequently affecting image brightness and the morphology of the inner shadow. In specific parameter spaces, alterations in the tilt or position of the accretion disk can lead to a drift in the light spot within the images of hairy black holes. This finding may establish a potential correlation between the precession of the tilted accretion disk and image features. Additionally, through an examination of images depicting hairy black holes surrounded by two thin accretion disks, we report the obscuring effect of the accretion environment on the inner shadow of the black hole.
Spectral distortions from promising single and multifield inflationary models
Authors: Baur Alexander , García Marcos A.G. , Henríquez-Ortiz Raúl , Hernández-Neri Mauricio , Ramos-Sánchez Saúl
Published: April 2024

Forthcoming missions probing the absolute intensity of the CMB are expected to be able to measure
spectral distortions, which are deviations from its blackbody distribution. As cosmic inflation can induce spectral
distortions, these experiments offer a possibility to further test the various promising inflationary
proposals, whose predictions need to be carefully determined. After numerically fitting all inflationary
observables to match current observations, we compute the predicted spectral distortions of
various promising single and multifield inflationary models. The predictions of single-field
inflationary models display deviations between 0.5% and 20% with respect to the standard cosmological
model in the observable window, where multi-natural and axion-monodromy inflation stand out in this respect.
In the case of multifield inflation, we observe a richer structure of the power spectrum, which, in
the case of so-called hybrid attractors, yields spectral distortions about 100 times more intense than
the standard signal. These observations open up questions about the relation among our results
and other cosmological observables that are also to be probed soon, such as the production of
primordial black holes and gravitational waves.
Tunable energy spectrum betatron x-ray sources in a plasma wakefield
Authors: Xi 奚 Chuan-Yi 传易 , Shou 寿 Yin-Ren 寅任 , Han 韩 Li-Qi 立琦 , Ablimit 阿 Abdughupur 卜杜伍普尔·阿布力米提 , Liu 刘 Xiao-Dan 晓丹 , Zhao 赵 Yan-Ying 研英 , Yu 余 Jin-Qing 金清
Published: April 2024

X-ray sources with tunable energy spectra have a wide range of applications in different scenarios due to their different penetration depths. However, existing x-ray sources face difficulties in terms of energy regulation. In this paper, we present a scheme for tuning the energy spectrum of a betatron x-ray generated from a relativistic electron bunch oscillating in a plasma wakefield. The center energy of the x-ray source can be tuned from several keV to several hundred keV by changing the plasma density, thereby extending the control range by an order of magnitude. At different central energies, the brightness of the betatron radiation is in the range of 3.7 × 1022 to 5.5 × 1022 photons/(0.1%BW⋅s⋅mm2⋅mrad2) and the photon divergence angle is about 2 mrad. This high-brightness, energy-controlled betatron source could pave the way to a wide range of applications requiring photons of specific energy, such as phase-contrast imaging in medicine, non-destructive testing and material analysis in industry, and imaging in nuclear physics.
Status and perspectives of the ICARUS experiment at the Fermilab Short Baseline Neutrino program
Authors: Torretta D. ,   the ICARUS collaboration
Published: April 2024

The ICARUS collaboration has employed the 760 t T600 detector in a successful three-year physics run at the underground LNGS laboratory, performing a sensitive search for LSND-like anomalous νe
appearance in the CERN Neutrino to Gran Sasso beam, which contributed to the constraints on the allowed neutrino oscillation parameters to a narrow region around Δm2 ∼ 1 eV2. After a significant overhaul at CERN, the T600 detector has been installed at Fermilab. In 2020 the cryogenic commissioning began with detector cool down, liquid Argon filling and recirculation. ICARUS then started its operation collecting the first neutrino events from the Booster Neutrino Beam (BNB) and the Neutrinos at the Main Injector (NuMI) beam off-axis, which were used to test the ICARUS event selection, reconstruction and analysis algorithms. ICARUS successfully completed its commissioning phase in June 2022, moving then to data taking for neutrino oscillation physics, aiming at first to either confirm or refute the claim by Neutrino-4 short-baseline reactor. ICARUS will also jointly search for evidence of sterile neutrinos together with the Short-Baseline Near Detector, within the Fermilab Short-Baseline Neutrino program experiment, and will perform measurements of neutrino cross sections with both beams and several Beyond Standard Model searches with the NuMI beam. In this paper, the main technical achievements of the ICARUS detector subsystems (Time Projection Chambers, Light Detection System, Cosmic Ray Tagger, Trigger and Data Acquisition) obtained with both BNB and NuMI neutrino beams during the commissioning phase, will be presented in terms of the overall detector performance and capability to select and reconstruct neutrino events.
Evaluation of new scintillation crystals with MCDM methods for brain PET
Authors: Uzun Ozsahin D. , Duwa B.B. , Uzun B. , Musa M.S. , Ozsahin I.
Published: April 2024

Brain Positron Emission Tomography (PET) imaging has been increasingly important in recent decades for improved detection and staging of brain cancer and other brain illnesses. Many elements, including the choice of radiation detecting medium, contribute to the overall image quality used to characterize a PET system's performance. In our previous study, novel transparent optical scintillator crystals for brain PET system were simulated. Therefore, there is a need to evaluate these materials using advanced computational techniques. Hence, in this study, we evaluated and compared them using two Multi-Criteria Decision-Making (MCDM) techniques, namely Preference Ranking Organization Method for Enrichment Evaluations (PROMETHEE) and Visekriterijumska Optimizacija I Kompromisno Resenje (VIKOR). The crystals used in this study were strontium hafnate (SHO), gadolinium aluminum gallium garget (GAGG), gadolinium yttrium gallium aluminum garget (GYGAG), gadolinium lutetium gallium aluminum garget (GLuGAG), and lastly lutetium oxyorthosilicate (LSO) for comparison. Density, effective atomic number, energy resolution, light output, and decay time were selected as important criteria. Importance weights of each criteria were then assigned by considering the high resolution and high sensitivity detectors. With both MCDM methods, the results showed that SHO outranked the other scintillator materials followed by LSO and GLuGAG. GYGAG, and GAGG is revealed as the least favorable crystals, in agreement with the previous simulation studies. This study can be extended by including more scintillators as they become available in the future.
Applying Gaussian mixture models for enhanced characterization of featured surfaces and mixed lubrication analysis
Authors: Silva Samuel A N , Costa Henara L , Luz Felipe K C , Oliveira Elton Y G , Profito Francisco J
Published: April 2024

Understanding surface topography is vital for optimizing the performance of engineering components. Featured surfaces, with distinct patterns and textures, have garnered attention for their potential to reduce friction and wear. However, accurately describing their topography poses challenges, necessitating effective segmentation methods in many applications. This paper proposes utilizing the Gaussian Mixture Model (GMM) clustering method as a novel approach for surface metrology analysis of featured surfaces. The GMM provides an approach to identify and analyze specific surface features and enhance comprehension of their contributions to functionality. The paper presents a comprehensive methodology involving surface characterization, GMM clustering, plateau reference plane location, and calculation of essential topography parameters. Results from four different surfaces are discussed, demonstrating the effectiveness of the proposed GMM-based methodology in segmenting plateau regions, grooves, and porosity.
A simple fatigue methodology for filled natural rubbers under positive and negative R ratios
Authors: Belkhiria Salma , Abroug Anis , Fathallah Raouf
Published: April 2024

This paper suggests a simple methodology to optimize the uniaxial fatigue predictions for filled natural rubbers. In this study, the stress ratio

R

effect on rubber fatigue life is investigated numerically. For this purpose, a Finite Element model is developed to determine both amplitude and mean stress values in the critical zone of the considered specimen. The suggested model incorporates the

R

ratio effect using an equivalent stress amplitude. It is proven that the new model can efficiently describe the fatigue life for a large

R

-value interval with higher accuracy.
Prediction of wear volume and friction coefficients of SS304 alloy using grey taguchi-based response surface methodology
Authors: Ponnuswamy Palanikumar , Manoharan Madhanagopal
Published: April 2024

The present investigation is centered on examining the tribological characteristics within a pin-on-disk configuration resembling a cylinder on a flat contact surface. The pin, constructed from Stainless Steel 304 alloy, underwent sliding experiments under varying speeds (1, 2, and 3 m s−1) and normal loads (10, 15, and 20 N) across track diameters of 60 and 120 mm. The experiments aimed to mitigate wear and friction in movable components, thus conducted for up to 2000 s in the experimental setup without any lubrication. Observations of the coefficients of friction stabilization and wear rate were made by manipulating the input parameters to anticipate the failure range. Higher coefficients of friction and increased wear rates were noted at lower sliding speeds, with wear rates stabilizing at higher speeds. Interestingly, despite a higher coefficient of friction stabilization and wear rate at a 120 mm track diameter, wear decreased. Optical Microscopy studies were carried out to examine surface damage for all normal loads and sliding speeds using both 60 mm and 120 mm track diameters. Additionally, this study employs Grey Taguchi-based Response Surface Methodology (GT-RSM) to forecast and regulate wear and friction. The findings of this study have practical implications for industries such as automotive, aerospace, and others employing SS 304 alloys in their operational components.
Planar dose calculation of electron therapy
Authors: Gebreamlak Wondesen T , Alkhatib Hassaan H
Published: April 2024

Purpose. The aim of this study is to determine the planar dose distribution of irregularly-shaped electron beams at their maximum dose depth (z
max) using the modied lateral build-up ratio (LBR) and curve-fitting methods. Methods. Circular and irregular cutouts were created using Cerrobend alloy for a 14 × 14 cm2 applicator. Percentage depth dose (PDD) at the standard source-surface-distance (SSD = 100 cm) and point dose at different SSD were measured for each cutout. Orthogonal profiles of the cutouts were measured at z
max. Data were collected for 6, 9, 12, and 15 MeV electron beam energies on a VERSA HDTM LINAC using the IBA Blue Phantom2 3D water phantom system. The planar dose distributions of the cutouts were also measured at z
max in solid water using EDR2 films. Results. The measured PDD curves were normalized to a normalization depth (d
0) of 1 mm. The lateral-buildup-ratio (LBR), lateral spread parameter (σ

R
(z)), and effective SSD (SSD

eff
) for each cutout were calculated using the PDD of the open applicator as the reference field. The modified LBR method was then employed to calculate the planar dose distribution of the irregular cutouts within the field at least 5 mm from the edge. A simple curve-fitting model was developed based on the profile shapes of the circular cutouts around the field edge. This model was used to calculate the planar dose distribution of the irregular cutouts in the region from 3 mm outside to 5 mm inside the field edge. Finally, the calculated planar dose distribution was compared with the film measurement. Conclusions. The planar dose distribution of electron therapy for irregular cutouts at z
max was calculated using the improved LBR method and a simple curve-fitting model. The calculated profiles were within 3% of the measured values. The gamma passing rate with a 3%/3 mm and 10% dose threshold was more than 96%.
Analysis of spin-squeezing generation in cavity-coupled atomic ensembles with continuous measurements
Authors: Caprotti A , Barbiero M , Tarallo M G , Genoni M G , Bertaina G
Published: April 2024

We analyze the generation of spin-squeezed states via coupling of three-level atoms to an optical cavity and continuous quantum measurement of the transmitted cavity field in order to monitor the evolution of the atomic ensemble. Using analytical treatment and microscopic simulations of the dynamics, we show that one can achieve significant spin squeezing, favorably scaling with the number of atoms N. However, contrary to some previous literature, we clarify that it is not possible to obtain Heisenberg scaling without the continuous feedback that is proposed in optimal approaches. In fact, in the adiabatic cavity removal approximation and large N limit, we find the scaling behavior

N

−
2

/

3

for spin squeezing and

N

−
1

/

3

for the corresponding protocol duration. These results can be obtained only by considering the curvature of the Bloch sphere, since linearizing the collective spin operators tangentially to its equator yields inaccurate predictions. With full simulations, we characterize how spin-squeezing generation depends on the system parameters and departs from the bad cavity regime, by gradually mixing with cavity-filling dynamics until metrological advantage is lost. Finally, we discuss the relevance of this spin-squeezing protocol to state-of-the-art optical clocks.
Density functional theory beyond the Born–Oppenheimer approximation: exact mapping onto an electronically non-interacting Kohn–Sham molecule
Authors: Fromager Emmanuel , Lasorne Benjamin
Published: April 2024

This work presents an alternative, general, and in-principle exact extension of electronic Kohn–Sham density functional theory (KS-DFT) to the fully quantum-mechanical molecular problem. Unlike in existing multi-component or exact-factorization-based DFTs of electrons and nuclei, both nuclear and electronic densities are mapped onto a fictitious electronically non-interacting molecule (referred to as KS molecule), where the electrons still interact with the nuclei. Moreover, in the present molecular KS-DFT, no assumption is made about the mathematical form (exactly factorized or not) of the molecular wavefunction. By expanding the KS molecular wavefunction à la Born–Huang, we obtain a self-consistent set of ‘KS beyond Born–Oppenheimer’ electronic equations coupled to nuclear equations that describe nuclei interacting among themselves and with non-interacting electrons. An exact adiabatic connection formula is derived for the Hartree-exchange-correlation energy of the electrons within the molecule and, on that basis, a practical adiabatic density-functional approximation is proposed and discussed.
Learning a general model of single phase flow in complex 3D porous media
Authors: Santos Javier E , Marcato Agnese , Kang Qinjun , Mehana Mohamed , O’Malley Daniel , Viswanathan Hari , Lubbers Nicholas
Published: April 2024

Modeling effective transport properties of 3D porous media, such as permeability, at multiple scales is challenging as a result of the combined complexity of the pore structures and fluid physics—in particular, confinement effects which vary across the nanoscale to the microscale. While numerical simulation is possible, the computational cost is prohibitive for realistic domains, which are large and complex. Although machine learning (ML) models have been proposed to circumvent simulation, none so far has simultaneously accounted for heterogeneous 3D structures, fluid confinement effects, and multiple simulation resolutions. By utilizing numerous computer science techniques to improve the scalability of training, we have for the first time developed a general flow model that accounts for the pore-structure and corresponding physical phenomena at scales from Angstrom to the micrometer. Using synthetic computational domains for training, our ML model exhibits strong performance (R
2 = 0.9) when tested on extremely diverse real domains at multiple scales.
Targeting farmers’ heterogeneity to enrich climate change adaptation policy design: findings from northern Italy
Authors: Ricart Sandra , Gandolfi Claudio , Castelletti Andrea
Published: April 2024

With its scientifically proven effects and widespread acceptance, climate change stands as one of the most pressing and intricate challenges for society and economies. Farmers are on the frontline of managing climate change. Therefore, how they perceive and respond to climate change shapes their risk assessment and structures future resilience and adaptive capacity. Employing a bottom-up approach, we conducted 460 surveys randomly among farmers throughout the Lombardy region in northern Italy. A triple-loop approach considering climate change awareness, perceived impacts, and adaptation measures and barriers was implemented to characterize the potential heterogeneity of farmer behaviour and explore whether risk attitudes and adaptation actions differ between farmer profiles. We then profiled farmers through a clustering analysis. Four groups emerged, highlighting farmers’ adaptation preferences and risk attitudes: (1) cropping-adapted and isolated farmers, (2) cooperation-adapted and insecure farmers, (3) risk insurance-adapted and confident farmers, and (4) climate services-adapted and aware farmers. Although the groups vary in terms of farmers’ characterization and farming activities (e.g. young and highly educated vs. old and highly experienced farmers, rainfed vs. irrigated farms), similar patterns were observed regarding climate change awareness and perceived impacts—however, the contrast increased in terms of adaptation measures and barriers. Gaining a more comprehensive understanding of the diverse ways in which farmers assess risks and adapt can promote the transferability of bottom-up findings and inform the co-design of tailored and flexible adaptation instruments, minimizing the risk of maladaptation or ineffective transformation in the face of climate change.
Conclusion
Authors: Anderson Neal G , Piccinini Gualtiero
Published: April 2024

This Conclusion summarizes the arguments put forward in this book, places them in the broader context of accounts of physical computation and debates about pancomputationalism, and expands upon them. First, it recaps (i) how we classify computational descriptions of physical systems by their descriptive strength, (ii) what it means to accept descriptions of a given strength as adequate, and (iii) how this leads to our robust mapping account of implementation. Second, it reiterates how the robust mapping account rules out pancomputationalism while accommodating physical computing substrates—conventional and unconventional, artificial and natural—that bear genuine physical signatures of computation. Third, it places our robust mapping account in the context of previous accounts of physical computation. Fourth, it highlights common notions of biological and artifact computation and, drawing from the present work, sketches a single account under which they are unified. Fifth and finally, it summarizes key takeaways from this work.
cancercelllines.org—a novel resource for genomic variants in cancer cell lines
Authors: Paloots Rahel , Baudis Michael
Published: April 2024

Cancer cell lines are an important component in biological and medical research, enabling studies of cellular mechanisms as well as the development and testing of pharmaceuticals. Genomic alterations in cancer cell lines are widely studied as models for oncogenetic events and are represented in a wide range of primary resources. We have created a comprehensive, curated knowledge resource—cancercelllines.org—with the aim to enable easy access to genomic profiling data in cancer cell lines, curated from a variety of resources and integrating both copy number and single nucleotide variants data. We have gathered over 5600 copy number profiles as well as single nucleotide variant annotations for 16 000 cell lines and provide these data with mappings to the GRCh38 reference genome. Both genomic variations and associated curated metadata can be queried through the GA4GH Beacon v2 Application Programming Interface (API) and a graphical user interface with extensive data retrieval enabled using GA4GH data schemas under a permissive licensing scheme.

Database URL: https://cancercelllines.org
Educational Inequalities in Dual-Function Life Expectancy
Authors: Bauldry Shawn , Thomas Patricia A , Sauerteig-Rolston Madison R , Ferraro Kenneth F
Published: April 2024

Objectives

This study investigates educational inequalities in dual functionality, a new concept that captures a combination of physical and cognitive functioning, both of which are important for independent living and quality of life.

Methods

Using data from the Health and Retirement Study and the National Health Interview Survey Linked Mortality Files, we define a measure of dual functionality based on the absence of limitations in activities of daily living and dementia. We estimate age-graded dual-function rates among adults 65+ and age-65 dual-function life expectancy across levels of education stratified by gender.

Results

In their mid-60s, 67% of women with less than a high school degree manifest dual functionality as compared with over 90% of women with at least a 4-year college degree. A similar pattern holds among men. These education-based gaps in dual functionality remain across later life, even as dual-function rates decline at older ages. Lower dual-function rates among older adults with less education translate into inequalities of 6.7 and 7.3 years in age-65 dual-function life expectancy between men and women, respectively, with at least a 4-year college degree compared to their counterparts with less than a high school degree.

Discussion

Older adults, particularly women, with less than a high school degree are estimated to live a smaller percentage of their remaining years with dual functionality compared with older adults with at least a college degree. These inequalities have implications for the distribution of caregiving resources of individuals, family members, and the broader healthcare community.
Indications and outcomes of second aortic procedures after acute type A dissection repair
Authors: Morjan Mohammed , Mestres Carlos-A , Savic Vedran , Gerçek Mustafa , Van Hemelrijck Mathias , Sromicki Juri , Dzemali Omer , Reser Diana
Published: April 2024

OBJECTIVES

Aortic arch or aortic root replacement is not performed in all cases of acute type A aortic dissection (ATAD), and a second aortic procedure will become necessary over time for some patients. Indications and outcomes, of second aortic procedures have not been studied extensively.

METHODS

Characteristics and in-hospital outcomes of all patients undergoing surgical repair for type A acute aortic dissection were analysed and patients needing second aortic procedure during follow-up were identified. The latter group was divided in 2 subgroups: on-pump includes patients operated on using cardiopulmonary bypass and off-pump without cardiopulmonary bypass.

RESULTS

A total of 638 patients underwent surgery for ATAD; 8% required a second aortic procedure. The most frequent indication for the second aortic procedure was dehiscence of suture lines (44%), followed by arch dilatation (24%). In-hospital mortality was 12%. Isolated ascending aorta replacement at the first surgery was associated with higher incidence of second aortic procedure (P = 0.006). Most patients in the on-pump group underwent a proximal reoperation (75%), with a mortality rate of 14.2%. In-hospital mortality of patients in the off-pump group was 7.7%. Long-term survival analysis showed no difference between groups (P = 0,526), Off-pump patients have greater likelihood of a second intervention during follow-up (P  = 0.004).

CONCLUSIONS

Extended aortic root surgery and customized aortic arch repair in ATAD could be reasonable to reduce the incidence and mortality of high-risk second aortic procedures.
Interpersonal Commitment: The Hidden Power of Face-to-Face Diplomacy
Authors: Heimann Gadi , Kampf Zohar
Published: April 2024

This article argues that interpersonal commitment is statespersons’ most highly coveted aim, the greatest benefit that interpersonal relations can yield in diplomacy. Accordingly, statespersons employ a range of relational practices in encounters with counterparts, seeking to create and harness commitment that will advance professional aims. We argue that statespersons can follow one of two paths to generate commitment: (1) creating feelings of gratitude and providing help that makes a counterpart feel indebted; or (2) cultivating friendly relations. Both demand the successful implementation of relational practices. On the basis of thirty semistructured interviews with past and present senior Israeli statespersons and an analysis of fifteen autobiographies written by senior Israeli diplomats and political figures, we demonstrate to what extent statespersons acknowledge the importance of interpersonal commitment and its ramifications; identify the relational practices that statespersons employ to elicit commitment from a counterpart; and discuss the conditions that facilitate the emergence of such a commitment. We conclude by discussing the differences between thin and thick interpersonal commitments and underlining the importance of interpersonal relations in diplomacy.
Are predatory mites effective as biological control agents to suppress Oligonychus ilicis (Acari: Tetranychidae) in blueberry plantings?
Authors: Marucci Rosangela C , Ruber Stella E , Pec Marvin , Liburd Oscar E
Published: April 2024

Southern red mite, Oligonychus ilicis McGregor (Acari: Tetranychidae), is an important polyphagous spider mite pest that causes economic damage to many ornamentals, coffee, and fruit crops. Blueberry growers in the Southeastern United States, including Florida and Georgia, have experienced severe losses due to outbreaks of O. ilicis. Predatory mites are an important management tool used for controlling spider mites; however, predators have not been studied and successfully evaluated in blueberry systems. Amblyseius swirskii Athias-Henriot, Phytoseiulus persimilis Athias-Henriot, and Neoseiulus californicus (McGregor) (Acari: Phytoseiidae) are among the most economically important arthropod agents used in augmentative biological control worldwide. To evaluate the potential of these 3 commercially available predatory mites for use in blueberry plantings, we conducted experiments under controlled laboratory conditions and in the greenhouse. In preliminary laboratory experiments, P. persimilis and N. californicus significantly reduced the number of O. ilicis motile stages below those found in the untreated control, indicating the potential for these 2 predatory mite species to suppress O. ilicis populations. Amblyseius swirskii did not perform well controlling O. ilicis motiles in the laboratory. Under greenhouse conditions, N. californicus and P. persimilis significantly reduced the number of eggs after 7 days of release and the number of motile stages after 14 days of release. This is the first report of using phytoseiid mites to suppress O. ilicis in blueberry systems in the United States. Further studies on predator behavior, feeding preferences, and acaricide compatibility with predators are required to investigate the possibility of using P. persimilis, and N. californicus as biological control agents of O. ilicis in blueberry systems.
Effects of mowing on the arthropod community in grass buffers and adjacent crop fields
Authors: Dively Galen P , Hooks Cerruti R R
Published: April 2024

Grass buffers are commonly planted along crop borders to filter nutrient and pesticide runoff. These buffers also provide food and shelter for beneficial and herbivorous arthropods and can serve as corridors for their movement into neighboring crops. Mowing is a common maintenance practice to control woody plants in these buffers. Field experiments were conducted to determine whether mowing influences the movement of arthropods into neighboring soybean plantings (Glycine max L) and impacts their abundance in corn (Zea mays var. indentata) the following spring. Results showed that mowing had varying effects on the abundance of herbivores, saprovores, parasitoids, and predators, particularly in the grass buffers. Aerially active arthropods in the plant canopy were more adversely affected by mowing than surface-dwelling arthropods. Mowing significantly reduced grasshopper (Orthoptera: Acrididae) density in the buffers, but did not trigger their movement into adjoining soybean fields. Parasitoids, predators, and thrips (Thysanoptera: Thripidae) were dissimilarly affected by mowing, and their responses were influenced by grass type. Altogether, these findings indicate that mowing did not cause notable movement of arthropods from grass buffers into adjoining crops and had minimal effects on the community of beneficial arthropods the following spring. Also, there were no differences in the level of insect feeding injury in crop fields next to mowed and unmowed buffers.
‘Objects bring us traces of life’
Authors: Davoli Silvia
Published: April 2024

This essay explores the profound impact of Giambattista Vico’s philosophy of history on two nineteenth-century museographic projects.1 The two collections are Michele Cavaleri’s museum in Milan and Enrico Cernuschi’s museum in Paris. Vico’s emphasis on historical knowledge as the key to understanding human civilization, and his unique approach to the aesthetics of primitive cultures influenced scholars and collectors interested in the origins of art and architecture throughout the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. I first discuss the Milanese school of philosophy, which played a pivotal role in re-evaluating Vico’s contributions, and its impact on both Cavaleri and Cernuschi. The two collectors, deeply rooted in Milan’s intellectual circles, incorporated Vico’s ideas into their museums, which aimed to showcase the interconnectedness of art, culture and history. Their endeavours to advance the contextual understanding of works of art are discussed, shedding new light on the influence of Vico’s anthropological historicism on nineteenth-century thought and culture.
Can you patent the sun? Towards a sui generis inclusive right to manage the relationship between intellectual property and Commons
Authors: Cifrodelli Gabriele
Published: April 2024

This paper, by adopting the Covid-19 vaccine as a case study, argues that some pharmaceutical drugs should be considered as Commons, ie goods that are managed and owned by the public at large, and not as private property—exclusivity—of pharmaceutical companies. The reasons of such a strong argument are, on the one side, the conspicuous public-funding contribution to develop Covid-19 vaccines and other essential life-saving treatments, and, on the other side, the search for a human and equity-oriented Global Health Security. It is true that, from a legal perspective, vaccines can be patented, leading to questionable practices in the pharmaceutical industry, such as patent thickets. However, an alternative and fairer path, which would result in the theorization of a Commons for the vaccine, can be pursued. In particular, the actual types of Commons in the IP law field—the public domain, exceptions/limitations to patents and open innovation instruments such as IP pledges—present some issues in relation to enforceability. By forwarding the concept of ‘negative spaces’ to the patent realm, these spaces should not only claim to not enforce IP but also be able to ‘enforce that non-enforcement’. Therefore, this paper, by building on the work of the author Dusollier, advances the idea that from the inclusivity, which is the typical feature of every Commons, a sui generis inclusive right can be envisaged and applied in the context of the vaccine, by rethinking the relationship between IP and Commons.
Refining Ixodes scapularis (Acari: Ixodidae) distribution models: a comparison of current methods to an established protocol
Authors: Williams Allison K , Peterman William E , Pesapane Risa
Published: April 2024

Blacklegged ticks (Ixodes scapularis Say) pose an enormous public health risk in eastern North America as the vector responsible for transmitting 7 human pathogens, including those causing the most common vector-borne disease in the United States, Lyme disease. Species distribution modeling is an increasingly popular method for predicting the potential distribution and subsequent risk of blacklegged ticks, however, the development of such models thus far is highly variable and would benefit from the use of standardized protocols. To identify where standardized protocols would most benefit current distribution models, we completed the “Overview, Data, Model, Assessment, and Prediction” (ODMAP) distribution modeling protocol for 21 publications reporting 22 blacklegged tick distribution models. We calculated an average adherence of 73.4% (SD ± 29%). Most prominently, we found that authors could better justify and connect their selection of variables and associated spatial scales to blacklegged tick ecology. In addition, the authors could provide clearer descriptions of model development, including checks for multicollinearity, spatial autocorrelation, and plausibility. Finally, authors could improve their reporting of variable effects to avoid undermining the models’ utility in informing species–environment relationships. To enhance future model rigor and reproducibility, we recommend utilizing several resources including the ODMAP protocol, and suggest that journals make protocol compliance a publication prerequisite.
Optimal Allocation Under Anticipated Nonresponse
Authors: Mendelson Jonathan , Elliott Michael R
Published: April 2024

Survey response rates have declined dramatically in recent years, increasing the costs of data collection. Despite this, there is little existing research on how to most efficiently allocate samples in a manner that incorporates response rate information. Existing mathematical theory on allocation for single-stage stratified sample designs generally assumes complete response. A common practice is to allocate sample under complete response, then to inflate the sample sizes by the inverse of the anticipated response rates. However, we show that this method can fail to improve upon an unadjusted allocation, due to ignoring the associated increase in the cost per interview. We provide mathematical theory on how to allocate single-stage designs in a manner that incorporates the effects of nonresponse on cost efficiency. We derive the optimal allocation for the poststratified estimator under nonresponse, which minimizes either the unconditional variance of our estimator or the expected costs, holding the other constant, and taking into account uncertainty in the number of respondents. We assume a cost model that incorporates effects of nonresponse. We provide theoretical comparisons between our allocation and common alternatives, which illustrate how response rates, population characteristics, and cost structure can affect the methods’ relative efficiency. In an application to a self-administered survey of US military personnel, the proposed allocation increases the effective sample size by 25 percent, compared with common practice.
Discrepancies in dengue burden estimates: a comparative analysis of reported cases and global burden of disease study, 2010–2019
Authors: Lee Sin Yee , Shih Hsin-I , Lo Wei-Cheng , Lu Tsung-Hsueh , Chien Yu-Wen
Published: April 2024

Background

Dengue is a significant mosquito-borne disease. Several studies have utilized estimates from the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) study to assess the global, regional or national burden of dengue over time. However, our recent investigation suggests that GBD’s estimates for dengue cases in Taiwan are unrealistically high. The current study extends the scope to compare reported dengue cases with GBD estimates across 30 high-burden countries and territories, aiming to assess the accuracy and interpretability of the GBD’s dengue estimates.

Methods

Data for this study were sourced from the GBD 2019 study and various national and international databases documenting reported dengue cases. The analysis targeted the top 30 countries and territories with the highest 10-year average of reported cases from 2010 to 2019. Discrepancies were quantified by computing absolute differences and ratios between the 10-year average of reported cases and GBD estimates. Coefficients of variation (CV) and estimated annual percentage changes (EAPCs) were calculated to assess variations and trends in the two data sources.

Results

Significant discrepancies were noted between reported data and GBD estimates in the number of dengue cases, incidence rates, and EAPCs. GBD estimates were substantially higher than reported cases for many entities, with the most notable differences found in China (570.0-fold), India (303.0-fold), Bangladesh (115.4-fold), Taiwan (85.5-fold) and Indonesia (23.2-fold). Furthermore, the GBD’s estimates did not accurately reflect the extensive yearly fluctuations in dengue outbreaks, particularly in non-endemic regions such as Taiwan, China and Argentina, as evidenced by high CVs.

Conclusions

This study reveals substantial discrepancies between GBD estimates and reported dengue cases, underscoring the imperative for comprehensive analysis in areas with pronounced disparities. The failure of GBD estimates to represent the considerable annual fluctuations in dengue outbreaks highlights the critical need for improvement in disease burden estimation methodologies for dengue.