bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
First description of adenosine production by Gnomoniopsis smithogilvyi, causal agent of chestnut brown rot
Authors: González-Jartín Jesús M. , Aguín Olga , Rodríguez-Cañás Inés , Alvariño Rebeca , Sainz María J. , Vieytes Mercedes R. , Rial Cristina , Piñón Pilar , Salinero Carmen , Alfonso Amparo , Botana Luis M.
Published: March 2024

Gnomoniopsis smithogilvyi (Gnomoniaceae, Diaporthales) is the main causal agent of chestnut brown rot on sweet chestnut worldwide. The rotting of nuts leads to alterations in the organoleptic qualities and decreased fruit production, resulting in significant economic losses. In 2021, there was an important outbreak of chestnut rot in southern Galicia (Spanish northwest). The profile of secondary metabolites from G. smithogilvyi was studied, especially to determine its capability for producing mycotoxins, as happens with other rotting fungi, due to the possible consequences on the safety of chestnut consumption. Secondary metabolites produced by isolates of G. smithogilvyi growing in potato dextrose agar (PDA) medium were identified using liquid chromatography coupled with high-resolution mass spectrometry. Three metabolites with interesting pharmacological and phyto-toxicological properties were identified based on their exact mass and fragmentation patterns, namely adenosine, oxasetin, and phytosphingosine. The capacity of G. smithogilvyi to produce adenosine in PDA cultures was assessed, finding concentrations ranging from 176 to 834 µg/kg. Similarly, the production of mycotoxins was ruled out, indicating that the consumption of chestnuts with necrotic lesions does not pose a health risk to the consumer in terms of mycotoxins.
Impact of climate change on formation of nitrogenous disinfection by-products. Part II: water blooming and enrichment by humic substances
Authors: Kozari Argyri , Gkellis Spyros , Voutsa Dimitra
Published: March 2024

Climate change affects the concentration and characteristics of dissolved organic matter (DOM) in surface water. The changes in composition of DOM have many implications to drinking water quality, especially in the case of formation of disinfection by-products (DBPs). The aim of this study was to investigate the formation of nitrogenous DBPs (N-DBPs) during chlorination and chloramination, caused by the alternation of surface water’s DOM driven by climate change. For this reason, two different cases were examined: (a) rise of algal organic matter (AOM) due to water blooming and (b) water enrichment by humic substances. The target compounds were haloacetonitriles (HANs), haloacetamides (HAcAms), and halonitromethane (TCNM). The results showed that Anabaena appears to be a major precursor for HAcAms and TCNM, while humic acids are precursors for HANs. The results of the mixtures presented the same pattern. During the water blooming case, HAcAms and TCNM formation are in favor, while during water enrichment by humic substances case, HANs is the N-DBP group with higher formation yield. Cloraminated samples presented higher values of cytotoxicity and genotoxicity compared to the chlorinated.

Graphical Abstract
Congo red dye degradation using Fe-containing mineral as a reactive material derived from waste foundry dust
Authors: Kim Hyunsoo , Park Chulhyun , Choi Nagchoul , Cho Kanghee
Published: March 2024

This study investigated the applicability of industrial waste. The high affinity of Fe-based products is widely used for industrial effluents because of their capability to oxidize contaminants. Waste foundry dust (WFD) is an Fe oxide that has been investigated as a potential reactive material that causes the generation of reactive oxidants. We aimed to investigate the physicochemical properties of WFD and the feasibility in the Fenton oxidation process. The WFD was used as a catalyst for removing Congo red (CR), to evaluate the generation of •OH and dissolution of Fe during the oxidation process. The linkage of •OH generation by WFD with eluted Fe(II) through the Fe dissolution was found. The Fenton oxidation reaction, CR degradation was affected by H2O2 concentration, initial pH, WFD dosage, initial CR concentration, and coexisting anions. The CR degradation efficiency increased with an increase in H2O2 concentration and WFD dosage. In addition, chloride and sulfate in solution promoted CR degradation, whereas carbonate had a negative effect on the Fenton oxidation process. The elution of Fe promotes CR degradation, over three reuse cycles, the degradation performance of the CR decreased from 100 to 81.1%. For the Fenton oxidation process, •OH generation is linked to Fe redox cycling, the surface passivation and Fe complexes interrupted the release of reactive oxidants, which resulted in the degradation of the CR decreased. This study proposed that WFD can serve as catalysts for the removal of CR.
Die Verschiebung des Sagbaren als trianguläre Herausforderung in der Supervision
Authors: Busse Stefan
Published: March 2024

Es wird der Frage nachgegangen, wie die Verschiebung des Sagbaren in den diversen gesellschaftlichen und politischen Krisen- und Konfliktdiskursen und in den hochdifferenzierten Identitäts- und Antidiskriminierungsdiskursen den supervisorischen Binnenraum erreichen. Es wird gezeigt, wie die triadische Struktur dieser Diskurse mit ihren Positionen von Verursacher:innen, Betroffenen und Beobachter:innen die Positionierung der Supervisor:innen als dritte Position tangieren und eine trianguläre Herausforderung in der Supervision darstellen.
The Ethics of Time: Towards Temporal Bioethics
Authors: Shaw D.
Published: March 2024

In this paper I discuss the important yet overlooked role played by time in public health ethics, clinical ethics, and personal ethics, and present an exploratory analysis of temporal inequalities and temporal autonomy.
Anwendungsbezug in Mathematik-Large-Scale-Assessments im Bildungsmonitoring für den Sekundarstufe I – Bildungsgang des sonderpädagogischen Schwerpunkts Lernen
Authors: Basendowski Sven , Greefrath Gilbert
Published: March 2024

Inklusive Schulentwicklung erfordert, dass Large-Scale-Assessments zum Bildungsmonitoring die Leistungen auch auf den unteren Kompetenzstufen konzeptionell fundiert und methodisch angemessen erheben. Im Gegensatz zu bisherigen Aufgabensets in Bildungsmonitoringstudien, die für diesen Kompetenzbereich nur verzerrte Ergebnisse liefern, wird in einer ersten explorativen Neukonzeption speziell für Jugendliche aus dem sonderpädagogischen Schwerpunkt Lernen gezeigt, dass Aufgabenpools für die unteren Kompetenzbereiche möglich sind. Ziel dieses Beitrags ist es, alle 88 anwendungsbezogenen empirisch leichten bzw. schweren Aufgaben im neukonzipierten Aufgabenpool auf den unteren Kompetenzstufen hinsichtlich Modellierungsphasen, Authentizität und Relevanz zu charakterisieren. Im Vergleich zum bisherigen Aufgabenpool erwiesen sich im neu konzipierten mehr Items mit Relevanz in eher authentischen und in privaten Kontexten als geeignet. Dieser explorative Befund ist bei der Weiterentwicklung eines Kompetenzmodells für Large-Scale-Assessments in inklusiven Settings zu berücksichtigen.
Advances in Surgical Lymphedema Management: The Emergence and Refinement of Lymph Node-to-Vein Anastomosis (LNVA)
Authors: Bailey Elizabeth A. , Pandey Sonia Kukreja , Chen Wei F.
Published: March 2024

Purpose of Review

We present the latest advancements in lymph node-to-vein anastomosis (LNVA), a crucial technique in the surgical treatment of lymphedema. Our work traces the evolution of LNVA, highlighting its transformation into a primary procedure for managing lower extremity lymphedema.

Recent Findings

Utilizing innovative imaging and radiofrequency-based localization alongside meticulous supermicrosurgical techniques, we have significantly enhanced both the efficiency and effectiveness of LNVA. We describe the unique advantages of LNVA compared to other lymphatic surgical approaches, particularly its effectiveness in managing the fluid component of lymphedema with minimal trauma. Our method, marked by rigorous preoperative planning and surgical precision, consistently delivers favorable outcomes. Additionally, we explore the systemic therapeutic benefits of LNVA, showcasing its capacity for providing not only local but also widespread systemic improvements in patients.

Our LNVA technique is a testament to the ongoing evolution and refinement of surgical techniques in the field of lymphedema management.
Low-cost development of a fully composite fixed-wing hybrid VTOL UAV
Authors: Sonkar Sarvesh , Kumar Prashant , George Riya Catherine , Yuvaraj T. P. , Philip Deepu , Ghosh A. K.
Published: March 2024

Fixed-wing hybrid vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) are popular due to their interoperability in the military and civilian domains, primarily where significant terrain difficulties exist for humans. Additionally, they can operate without requiring any runway infrastructure and have extended air endurance and efficiency. Since the hybrid UAV operates in distinct flight modes, viz., (a) VTOL and (b) fixed-wing cruise, carrying different payloads, the airframe structure requires careful design and manufacturing to realize sufficient strength. This experimental study aimed to identify the best combinations of various composite materials for manufacturing a lightweight, low-altitude long endurance (LALE) hybrid VTOL UAV. Primary materials include carbon fiber, Kevlar, fiber-reinforced plastic (FRP), resins, etc. Different rectangular test specimens of 120 × 5 mm size were made from ten different grades of carbon fiber, FRP, and resins using vacuum bagging. After properly curing these test specimens, we quantified their dynamic mechanical characteristics using various bending load experiments on a universal testing machine (UTM). An analysis of the experimental data facilitated the identification of the best composite combinations that provide maximum strength while reducing overall weight. Thus, we could understand the dynamic interplay between peak stress and test specimen weight. We also manufactured a UAV prototype using the identified combination and instrumented and flight-tested it to substantiate the experimental findings.
The Profile and Characteristics of Young People Accessing Recently Implemented Community Forensic Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (F:CAMHS) in Northern Ireland
Authors: Walsh Colm , Anderson Philip , Caldwell Frances
Published: March 2024

Children under the age of 18 who are known to forensic child and adolescent mental health services often present with complex psychosocial and behavioural needs that are elevated compared with those in the general youth population. The Forensic Child and Adolescent Mental Health Service for Northern Ireland (FCAMHSNI) was commissioned in 2014 to support these children. Despite almost a decade of implementation, the profile and characteristics in the service remain under-analysed, impeding service improvement and making international comparisons more difficult. The primary aim of the current study was to address the regional gaps in how the needs of those accessing FCAMHSNI are understood. A secondary aim was to capture comparable data. Data on 107 accepted referrals are included in the analyses. The majority of cases within this time period were male (81.1%, n = 86) and the majority of presenting behaviours were related to violence and aggression 62.3% (n = 48). However, some forms of violence, such as harmful sexual behaviour, was relatively low when compared with other jurisdictions. Specific demographic characteristics such as gender and religious background appeared to be significant risk factors for referral to the service. Almost all of the sample are known to have experienced at least one potentially traumatic event (95.2%) and in more than one-third of cases, service users presented with co-morbid issues (35.6%, n = 37). These observations are discussed. This study adds to the growing international literature around the needs of forensically involved youth and helps to inform future service development and provision.
Named Entity Recognition Datasets: A Classification Framework
Authors: Zhang Ying , Xiao Gang
Published: March 2024

Named entity recognition as a fundamental task plays a crucial role in accomplishing some of the tasks and applications in natural language processing. In the age of Internet information, as far as computer applications are concerned, a huge proportion of information is stored in structured and unstructured forms and used for language and text processing. Before neural networks were widely used in natural language processing tasks, research in the field of named entity recognition usually focused on leveraging lexical and syntactic knowledge to improve the performance of models or methods. To promote the development of named entity recognition, researchers have been creating named entity recognition datasets through conferences, projects, and competitions for many years, based on various research goals, and training entity recognition models with increasing accuracy on this basis. However, there has not been much exploration of named entity recognition datasets. Particularly, there have been many datasets available since the introduction of the named entity recognition task, but there is no clear framework to summarize the development of these seemingly independent datasets. A closer look at the context of the development of each dataset and the features it contains reveals that these datasets share some common features to varying degrees. In this thesis, we review the development of named entity recognition datasets over the years and describe them in terms of the language of the dataset, the domain of research, the type of entity, the granularity of the entity, and the annotation of the entity. Finally, we provide an idea for the creation of subsequent named entity recognition datasets.
The Psychology of Misinformation
Authors: Roozenbeek Jon , van der Linden Sander
Published: March 2024

King Charles III is Dracula's distant cousin. Governments are hiding information about UFOs. COVID-19 came from outer space. These sound like absurd statements, but some are true, and others are misinformation. But what exactly is misinformation? Who believes and spreads things that aren't true, and why? What solutions do we have available, and how well do they work? This book answers all these questions and more. Tackling the science of misinformation from its evolutionary origins to its role in the internet era, this book translates rigorous research on misleading information into a comprehensive and jargon-free explanation. Whether you are a student, researcher, policymaker, or changemaker, you will discover an easy-to-read analysis on human belief in today's world and expert advice on how to prevent deception.
Co-prevalence of arterial aneurysm location – a correlation	analysis based on a retrospective cross-sectional observational	study
Authors: Körfer Daniel , Kilian Samuel , Grond-Ginsbach Caspar , Hatzl Johannes , Hakimi Maani , Böckler Dittmar , Erhart Philipp
Published: March 2024

Summary: Background: The aim of this retrospective single-centre cross-sectional observational study was to investigate co-prevalence of arterial aneurysm location systematically. Patients and methods: Patients with the diagnosis of any arterial aneurysm from January 2006 to January 2016 were investigated in a single centre. Patients with hereditary disorders of connective tissue, systemic inflammatory disease, or arterial pathologies other than true aneurysms were excluded. Aneurysm locations were assessed for every patient included. For patients with at least two co-existing aneurysms, co-prevalence of aneurysm location was investigated by calculating correlation coefficients and applying Fisher’s exact test. This study report is prepared according to the STROBE statement. Results: Of 3107 identified patients with arterial aneurysms, 918 were excluded. Of the remaining 2189 patients, 951 patients with at least two aneurysms were included in the study. Bilateral aneurysm combinations of paired iliac, femoral and popliteal arteries showed the highest correlation (ϕ=0.35 to 0.67), followed by bilateral combinations of subclavian (ϕ=0.36) and internal carotid (ϕ=0.38) arteries. Abdominal aortic aneurysms in combination with visceral artery aneurysms (ϕ=−0.24 to −0.12), popliteal arteries (ϕ=−0.22) and the ascending aorta (ϕ=−0.19) showed the lowest correlation, followed by the descending aorta in combination with the common iliac arteries (ϕ=−0.12 to −0.13). Conclusions: In our study sample, aneurysm co-prevalence was highly non-random. This should be considered in the context of aneurysm screening programs.
Generalistik im schuleigenen Curriculum umsetzen
Authors: Dienhart Marie-Therese , Kerres Andrea , Schröppel Hildegard
Published: March 2024

Zusammenfassung: Mit der Reform der Pflegeausbildung in Deutschland zur generalistischen Pflegeausbildung mit Start am 01.01.2020 stehen die Berufsfachschulen für Pflege (BFS) vor umfangreichen Herausforderungen: Sie sollen auf Grundlage des PflBG und der PflAPrV, aber auch weiteren länderrechtlichen Vorgaben, ein neues, schulinternes Curriculum erstellen (Bundesinstitut für Berufsbildung [BIBB], 2020; Saul & Jürgensen, 2021).
Wohnberatung
Authors: Zegelin Angelika
Published: March 2024

Zusammenfassung: Wohnberatung wird zunehmend wichtiger, im Alter kann sie Pflegebedürftigkeit herauszögern und ein Leben daheim weiter ermöglichen. Die Angebote sind zersplittert und werden wenig unterstützt. Im Beitrag werden Inhalte und Möglichkeiten aufgezeigt. Pflegefachpersonen sollten sich für Wohnberatung interessieren.
Increasing Trust in Climate Vulnerability Projections
Authors: Ford James D.
Published: March 2024

Projecting future trends is emerging as a key focus of community‐based climate vulnerability assessments. In these mostly qualitative studies, understanding of current vulnerability processes is used as a basis for identifying who and what are vulnerable to future changes, where, and why, and characterizing the key drivers of vulnerability and how they might change. Few, if any, of these studies engage with approaches for validating findings, reflecting the difficulties of validating mostly qualitative projections of highly uncertain futures, absence of directly measurable vulnerability outcomes, and lack of data on vulnerability drivers. Given the challenges of projecting future trends, this absence undermines trust in such work and limits opportunities to learn. This paper illustrates, with examples, how validation can be incorporated into the study design of community‐based climate vulnerability assessments through: (a) examination of retrospective projections to assess projection skill, (b) evaluation of projections made for future time periods which have since passed for consistency with what actually happened, (c) comparison of projections with empirical research that attempts to understand and constrain the effects of climate change using observed effects of weather variation, and (d) incorporation of demonstrated “best practices” into projection development, such as acknowledgment of areas of uncertainty, integration of diverse viewpoints, and utilization of multiple sources of information.
Saltation‐Induced Dust Emission of Dust Devils in the Convective Boundary Layer—An LES Study on the Meter Scale
Authors: Klamt J. , Giersch S. , Raasch S.
Published: March 2024

Dust devils are vertically oriented, columnar vortices that form within the atmospheric convective boundary layer (CBL) of dry regions. They are able to lift a sufficient amount of soil particles including dust to become visible and are considered as a potentially important dust source for the atmosphere. Mineral dust, a key component of atmospheric aerosols, influences the climate by affecting the radiation budget and cloud formation. Current estimates of the contribution of dust devils to the global, regional, and local dust release vary considerably from less than 1% to more than 50%. To address this uncertainty, we perform the highest resolved large‐eddy simulation (LES) study on dust emission in the CBL to date, using the PALM model system and the saltation‐based Air Force Weather Agency (AFWA) dust emission scheme. Our results show that under desert‐like conditions, dust devils are responsible for an average of 5% of regional dust emissions, with temporary maxima of up to 15%. This contrasts with previous measurement‐based (>35%) and LES‐based estimates (∼0.1%). Local emissions of dust devils (up to 10 mg m−2 s−1) are 1–3 orders of magnitude higher than the emission in the surroundings. This makes dust devils important for air quality and visibility. Additionally, our study reveals previously unknown large‐scale convective dust emission patterns. These patterns are tied to the CBL's cellular flow structure and are the main cause of dust release. Contrary to other studies, our findings clarify the important role of saltation‐induced dust emission.
Fabrication of Mie-resonant silicon nanoparticles using laser annealing for surface-enhanced fluorescence spectroscopy
Authors: Fukuta Tatsuya , Kato Ryo , Tanaka Takuo , Yano Taka-aki
Published: March 2024

Silicon nanostructures with unique Mie resonances have garnered considerable attention in the field of nanophotonics. Here, we present a simple and efficient method for the fabrication of silicon (Si) nanoparticle substrates using continuous-wave (CW) laser annealing. The resulting silicon nanoparticles exhibit Mie resonances in the visible region, and their resonant wavelengths can be precisely controlled. Notably, laser-annealed silicon nanoparticle substrates show a 60-fold enhancement in fluorescence. This tunable and fluorescence-enhancing silicon nanoparticle platform has tremendous potential for highly sensitive fluorescence sensing and biomedical imaging applications.
Genome-Wide Association Study of Obsessive-Compulsive Symptoms including 33,943 individuals from the general population
Authors: Strom Nora I. , Burton Christie L. , Iyegbe Conrad , Silzer Talisa , Antonyan Lilit , Pool René , Lemire Mathieu , Crowley James J. , Hottenga Jouke-Jan , Ivanov Volen Z. , Larsson Henrik , Lichtenstein Paul , Magnusson Patrik , Rück Christian , Schachar Russell , Wu Hei Man , Cath Danielle , Crosbie Jennifer , Mataix-Cols David , Boomsma Dorret I. , Mattheisen Manuel , Meier Sandra M. , Smit Dirk J. A. , Arnold Paul D.
Published: March 2024

While 1–2% of individuals meet the criteria for a clinical diagnosis of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), many more (~13–38%) experience subclinical obsessive-compulsive symptoms (OCS) during their life. To characterize the genetic underpinnings of OCS and its genetic relationship to OCD, we conducted the largest genome-wide association study (GWAS) meta-analysis of parent- or self-reported OCS to date (N = 33,943 with complete phenotypic and genome-wide data), combining the results from seven large-scale population-based cohorts from Sweden, the Netherlands, England, and Canada (including six twin cohorts and one cohort of unrelated individuals). We found no genome-wide significant associations at the single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) or gene-level, but a polygenic risk score (PRS) based on the OCD GWAS previously published by the Psychiatric Genetics Consortium (PGC-OCD) was significantly associated with OCS (Pfixed = 3.06 × 10−5). Also, one curated gene set (Mootha Gluconeogenesis) reached Bonferroni-corrected significance (Ngenes = 28, Beta = 0.79, SE = 0.16, Pbon = 0.008). Expression of genes in this set is high at sites of insulin mediated glucose disposal. Dysregulated insulin signaling in the etiology of OCS has been suggested by a previous study describing a genetic overlap of OCS with insulin signaling-related traits in children and adolescents. We report a SNP heritability of 4.1% (P = 0.0044) in the meta-analyzed GWAS, and heritability estimates based on the twin cohorts of 33–43%. Genetic correlation analysis showed that OCS were most strongly associated with OCD (rG = 0.72, p = 0.0007) among all tested psychiatric disorders (N = 11). Of all 97 tested phenotypes, 24 showed a significant genetic correlation with OCS, and 66 traits showed concordant directions of effect with OCS and OCD. OCS have a significant polygenic contribution and share genetic risk with diagnosed OCD, supporting the hypothesis that OCD represents the extreme end of widely distributed OCS in the population.
ZBP1 and TRIF trigger lethal necroptosis in mice lacking caspase-8 and TNFR1
Authors: Solon Margaret , Ge Nianfeng , Hambro Shannon , Haller Susan , Jiang Jian , Baca Miriam , Preston Jessica , Maltzman Allie , Wickliffe Katherine E. , Liang Yuxin , Reja Rohit , Nickles Dorothee , Newton Kim , Webster Joshua D.
Published: March 2024

Necroptosis is a lytic form of cell death that is mediated by the kinase RIPK3 and the pseudokinase MLKL when caspase-8 is inhibited downstream of death receptors, toll-like receptor 3 (TLR3), TLR4, and the intracellular Z-form nucleic acid sensor ZBP1. Oligomerization and activation of RIPK3 is driven by interactions with the kinase RIPK1, the TLR adaptor TRIF, or ZBP1. In this study, we use immunohistochemistry (IHC) and in situ hybridization (ISH) assays to generate a tissue atlas characterizing RIPK1, RIPK3, Mlkl, and ZBP1 expression in mouse tissues. RIPK1, RIPK3, and Mlkl were co-expressed in most immune cell populations, endothelial cells, and many barrier epithelia. ZBP1 was expressed in many immune populations, but had more variable expression in epithelia compared to RIPK1, RIPK3, and Mlkl. Intriguingly, expression of ZBP1 was elevated in Casp8−/−Tnfr1−/− embryos prior to their succumbing to aberrant necroptosis around embryonic day 15 (E15). ZBP1 contributed to this embryonic lethality because rare Casp8−/−Tnfr1−/−Zbp1−/− mice survived until after birth. Necroptosis mediated by TRIF contributed to the demise of Casp8−/−Tnfr1−/−Zbp1−/− pups in the perinatal period. Of note, Casp8−/−Tnfr1−/−Trif−/−Zbp1−/− mice exhibited autoinflammation and morbidity, typically within 5–7 weeks of being born, which is not seen in Casp8−/−Ripk1−/−Trif−/−Zbp1−/−, Casp8−/−Ripk3−/−, or Casp8−/−Mlkl−/− mice. Therefore, after birth, loss of caspase-8 probably unleashes RIPK1-dependent necroptosis driven by death receptors other than TNFR1.
Ocular and orbital manifestations in VEXAS syndrome
Authors: Abumanhal Muhammad , Leibovitch Igal , Zisapel Michael , Eviatar Tali , Edel Yonatan , Ben Cnaan Ran
Published: March 2024

Background

VEXAS (Vacuoles, E1 enzyme, X-linked, Autoinflammatory, Somatic) is a hematoinflammatory disease that typically affects adults. It results from a somatic mutation of the E1 ubiquitin conjugating enzyme encoded by the UBA1 gene. VEXAS is frequently accompanied by myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS). The purpose of this study is to describe the ocular and orbital manifestations of VEXAS patients in a case series in our medical centre.

Methods

A retrospective chart review was performed for all patients who were diagnosed with VEXAS syndrome in a tertiary medical centre over two years.

Results

Eight patients were identified with VEXAS. In six patients, the diagnosis was confirmed by genomic sequencing. Two patients were identified based on their phenotype. All patients were males. The mean age at diagnosis was 78.7 years. In two patients, the ocular manifestation was the presenting symptom for VEXAS. Seven patients (87.5%) had history of MDS. Systemic inflammation manifestations include: skin rash (n = 5), recurrent fevers (n = 2), relapsing polychondritis (n = 2), pleuritis and pleural effusion (n = 2), poly arteritis nodosa- PAN (n = 1) and thrombophlebitis (n = 1). Seven (87%) patients were presented with periorbital oedema. Three patients showed orbital inflammation. Dacryoadenitis was observed in two patients, and extraocular muscle (EOM) myositis was detected in two patients. Four patients demonstrated ocular inflammation such as: episcleritis, scleritis and anterior uveitis.

Conclusion

ocular manifestations in VEXAS include orbital inflammation, dacryoadenitis, myositis, uveitis, scleritis, episcleritis and periorbital oedema. We recommend that in old male patients, with history of haematological disorder, presenting with ocular symptom, VEXAS investigation should be taken into consideration.
Central retinal artery occlusion: a stroke of the eye
Authors: Chen Celia , Singh Gurfarmaan , Madike Reema , Cugati Sudha
Published: March 2024

Central retinal artery occlusion (CRAO), like a stroke in the brain, is a critical eye condition that requiring urgent medical attention. Patients with CRAO present with acute loss of vision and the visual prognosis is poor with low chance of spontaneous visual recovery. Moreover, the risk of developing ischaemic heart disease and cerebral stroke is increased due to the presence of underlying atherosclerotic risk factors. Currently, there is no officially recommended treatment for CRAO. This review will describe the anatomy, pathophysiology, clinical features of CRAO, as well as exploring existing and potential future approaches for managing the condition.
Autophagy-enhancing ATG16L1 polymorphism is associated with improved clinical outcome and T-cell immunity in chronic HIV-1 infection
Authors: Schreurs Renée R. C. E. , Koulis Athanasios , Booiman Thijs , Boeser-Nunnink Brigitte , Cloherty Alexandra P. M. , Rader Anusca G. , Patel Kharishma S. , Kootstra Neeltje A. , Ribeiro Carla M. S.
Published: March 2024

Chronic HIV-1 infection is characterized by T-cell dysregulation that is partly restored by antiretroviral therapy. Autophagy is a critical regulator of T-cell function. Here, we demonstrate a protective role for autophagy in HIV-1 disease pathogenesis. Targeted analysis of genetic variation in core autophagy geneATG16L1reveals the previously unidentified rs6861 polymorphism, which correlates functionally with enhanced autophagy and clinically with improved survival of untreated HIV-1-infected individuals. T-cells carryingATG16L1rs6861(TT) genotype display improved antiviral immunity, evidenced by increased proliferation, revamped immune responsiveness, and suppressed exhaustion/immunosenescence features. In-depth flow-cytometric and transcriptional profiling reveal T-helper-cell-signatures unique to rs6861(TT) individuals with enriched regulation of pro-inflammatory networks and skewing towards immunoregulatory phenotype. Therapeutic enhancement of autophagy recapitulates the rs6861(TT)-associated T-cell traits in non-carriers. These data underscore the in vivo relevance of autophagy for longer-lasting T-cell-mediated HIV-1 control, with implications towards development of host-directed antivirals targeting autophagy to restore immune function in chronic HIV-1 infection.
A midbrain GABAergic circuit constrains wakefulness in a mouse model of stress
Authors: Ren Shuancheng , Zhang Cai , Yue Faguo , Tang Jinxiang , Zhang Wei , Zheng Yue , Fang Yuanyuan , Wang Na , Song Zhenbo , Zhang Zehui , Zhang Xiaolong , Qin Han , Wang Yaling , Xia Jianxia , Jiang Chenggang , He Chao , Luo Fenlan , Hu Zhian
Published: March 2024

Enhancement of wakefulness is a prerequisite for adaptive behaviors to cope with acute stress, but hyperarousal is associated with impaired behavioral performance. Although the neural circuitries promoting wakefulness in acute stress conditions have been extensively identified, less is known about the circuit mechanisms constraining wakefulness to prevent hyperarousal. Here, we found that chemogenetic or optogenetic activation of GAD2-positive GABAergic neurons in the midbrain dorsal raphe nucleus (DRNGAD2) decreased wakefulness, while inhibition or ablation of these neurons produced an increase in wakefulness along with hyperactivity. Surprisingly, DRNGAD2 neurons were paradoxically wakefulness-active and were further activated by acute stress. Bidirectional manipulations revealed that DRNGAD2 neurons constrained the increase of wakefulness and arousal level in a mouse model of stress. Circuit-specific investigations demonstrated that DRNGAD2 neurons constrained wakefulness via inhibition of the wakefulness-promoting paraventricular thalamus. Therefore, the present study identified a wakefulness-constraining role DRNGAD2 neurons in acute stress conditions.
Efficient excitation and control of integrated photonic circuits with virtual critical coupling
Authors: Hinney Jakob , Kim Seunghwi , Flatt Graydon J. K. , Datta Ipshita , Alù Andrea , Lipson Michal
Published: March 2024

Critical coupling in integrated photonic devices enables the efficient transfer of energy from a waveguide to a resonator, a key operation for many applications. This condition is achieved when the resonator loss rate is equal to the coupling rate to the bus waveguide. Carefully matching these quantities is challenging in practice, due to variations in the resonator properties resulting from fabrication and external conditions. Here, we demonstrate that efficient energy transfer to a non-critically coupled resonator can be achieved by tailoring the excitation signal in time. We rely on excitations oscillating at complex frequencies to load an otherwise overcoupled resonator, demonstrating that a virtual critical coupling condition is achieved if the imaginary part of the complex frequency equals the mismatch between loss and coupling rate. We probe a microring resonator with tailored pulses and observe a minimum intensity transmission $$T=0.11$$
T
=
0.11
in contrast to a continuous-wave transmission $$T=0.58$$
T
=
0.58
, corresponding to 8 times enhancement of intracavity intensity. Our technique opens opportunities for enhancing and controlling on-demand light-matter interactions for linear and nonlinear photonic platforms.
Understanding the effect of spatially separated Cu and acid sites in zeolite catalysts on oxidation of methane
Authors: Xiao Peipei , Wang Yong , Wang Lizhuo , Toyoda Hiroto , Nakamura Kengo , Bekhti Samya , Lu Yao , Huang Jun , Gies Hermann , Yokoi Toshiyuki
Published: March 2024

Unraveling the effect of spatially separated bifunctional sites on catalytic reactions is significant yet challenging. In this report, we investigate the role of spatial separation on the oxidation of methane in a series of Cu-exchanged aluminosilicate zeolites. Regulation of the bifunctional sites is done either through studying a physical mixture of Cu-exchanged zeolites and acidic zeolites or by systematically varying the Cu and acid density within a family of zeolite materials. We show that separated Cu and acid sites are beneficial for the formation of hydrocarbons while high-density Cu sites, which are closer together, facilitate the production of CO2. By contrast, a balance of the spatial separation of Cu and acid sites shows more favorable formation of methanol. This work will further guide approaches to methane oxidation to methanol and open an avenue for promoting hydrocarbon synthesis using methanol as an intermediate.
Direct observation of a crescent-shape chromosome in expanded Bacillus subtilis cells
Authors: Tišma Miloš , Bock Florian Patrick , Kerssemakers Jacob , Antar Hammam , Japaridze Aleksandre , Gruber Stephan , Dekker Cees
Published: March 2024

Bacterial chromosomes are folded into tightly regulated three-dimensional structures to ensure proper transcription, replication, and segregation of the genetic information. Direct visualization of chromosomal shape within bacterial cells is hampered by cell-wall confinement and the optical diffraction limit. Here, we combine cell-shape manipulation strategies, high-resolution fluorescence microscopy techniques, and genetic engineering to visualize the shape of unconfined bacterial chromosome in real-time in live Bacillus subtilis cells that are expanded in volume. We show that the chromosomes predominantly exhibit crescent shapes with a non-uniform DNA density that is increased near the origin of replication (oriC). Additionally, we localized ParB and BsSMC proteins – the key drivers of chromosomal organization – along the contour of the crescent chromosome, showing the highest density near oriC. Opening of the BsSMC ring complex disrupted the crescent chromosome shape and instead yielded a torus shape. These findings help to understand the threedimensional organization of the chromosome and the main protein complexes that underlie its structure.
Single [0001]-oriented zinc metal anode enables sustainable zinc batteries
Authors: Zhang Xiaotan , Li Jiangxu , Liu Yanfen , Lu Bingan , Liang Shuquan , Zhou Jiang
Published: March 2024

The optimization of crystalline orientation of a Zn metal substrate to expose more Zn(0002) planes has been recognized as an effective strategy in pursuit of highly reversible Zn metal anodes. However, the lattice mismatch between substrate and overgrowth crystals has hampered the epitaxial sustainability of Zn metal. Herein, we discover that the presence of crystal grains deviating from [0001] orientation within a Zn(0002) metal anode leads to the failure of epitaxial mechanism. The electrodeposited [0001]-uniaxial oriented Zn metal anodes with a single (0002) texture fundamentally eliminate the lattice mismatch and achieve ultra-sustainable homoepitaxial growth. Using high-angle angular dark-filed scanning transmission electron microscopy, we elucidate the homoepitaxial growth of the deposited Zn following the “~ABABAB~” arrangement on the Zn(0002) metal from an atomic-level perspective. Such consistently epitaxial behavior of Zn metal retards dendrite formation and enables improved cycling, even in Zn||NH4V4O10 pouch cells, with a high capacity of 220 mAh g−1 for over 450 cycles. The insights gained from this work on the [0001]-oriented Zn metal anode and its persistently homoepitaxial mechanism pave the way for other metal electrodes with high reversibility.
SANS-CNN: An automated machine learning technique for spaceflight associated neuro-ocular syndrome with astronaut imaging data
Authors: Kamran Sharif Amit , Hossain Khondker Fariha , Ong Joshua , Zaman Nasif , Waisberg Ethan , Paladugu Phani , Lee Andrew G. , Tavakkoli Alireza
Published: March 2024

Spaceflight associated neuro-ocular syndrome (SANS) is one of the largest physiologic barriers to spaceflight and requires evaluation and mitigation for future planetary missions. As the spaceflight environment is a clinically limited environment, the purpose of this research is to provide automated, early detection and prognosis of SANS with a machine learning model trained and validated on astronaut SANS optical coherence tomography (OCT) images. In this study, we present a lightweight convolutional neural network (CNN) incorporating an EfficientNet encoder for detecting SANS from OCT images titled “SANS-CNN.” We used 6303 OCT B-scan images for training/validation (80%/20% split) and 945 for testing with a combination of terrestrial images and astronaut SANS images for both testing and validation. SANS-CNN was validated with SANS images labeled by NASA to evaluate accuracy, specificity, and sensitivity. To evaluate real-world outcomes, two state-of-the-art pre-trained architectures were also employed on this dataset. We use GRAD-CAM to visualize activation maps of intermediate layers to test the interpretability of SANS-CNN’s prediction. SANS-CNN achieved 84.2% accuracy on the test set with an 85.6% specificity, 82.8% sensitivity, and 84.1% F1-score. Moreover, SANS-CNN outperforms two other state-of-the-art pre-trained architectures, ResNet50-v2 and MobileNet-v2, in accuracy by 21.4% and 13.1%, respectively. We also apply two class-activation map techniques to visualize critical SANS features perceived by the model. SANS-CNN represents a CNN model trained and validated with real astronaut OCT images, enabling fast and efficient prediction of SANS-like conditions for spaceflight missions beyond Earth’s orbit in which clinical and computational resources are extremely limited.
Altered perivascular spaces in subcortical white matter in Parkinson’s disease patients with levodopa-induced dyskinesia
Authors: Cao Xingyue , Gan Caiting , Zhang Heng , Yuan Yongsheng , Sun Huimin , Zhang Li , Wang Lina , Zhang Lian , Zhang Kezhong
Published: March 2024

Dilated perivascular spaces (PVS) have emerged as a pathological hallmark in various neurological conditions, including Parkinson’s disease (PD). Levodopa-induced dyskinesia (LID), an intractable motor complication of PD, remains enigmatic regarding the distribution patterns of PVS. Our objective was to scrutinize the percent PVS (pPVS) changes within PD patients with LID (PD-LID). In total, 132 individuals were enrolled, including PD-LID (n = 42), PD patients without LID (PD-nLID, n = 45), and healthy controls (HCs, n = 45). Employing an automated approach for PVS quantification based on structural magnetic resonance imaging, we comprehensively evaluated total pPVS in subcortical white matter globally and regionally. A significant increase in global pPVS was observed in PD patients versus HCs, particularly evident in PD-LID relative to HCs. Within the PD-LID group, elevated pPVS was discerned in the right inferior frontal gyrus region (rIFG) (pars opercularis), contrasting with PD-nLID and HCs. Moreover, PD patients exhibited increased pPVS in bilateral superior temporal regions compared to HCs. Notably, pPVS in the rIFG positively correlated with dyskinetic symptoms and could well identify LID. Our findings unveiled PVS alternations in subcortical white matter in PD-LID at both global and regional levels, highlighting the increased pPVS in rIFG as a prospective imaging marker for LID.
Protein-altering variants at copy number-variable regions influence diverse human phenotypes
Authors: Hujoel Margaux L. A. , Handsaker Robert E. , Sherman Maxwell A. , Kamitaki Nolan , Barton Alison R. , Mukamel Ronen E. , Terao Chikashi , McCarroll Steven A. , Loh Po-Ru
Published: March 2024

Copy number variants (CNVs) are among the largest genetic variants, yet CNVs have not been effectively ascertained in most genetic association studies. Here we ascertained protein-altering CNVs from UK Biobank whole-exome sequencing data (n = 468,570) using haplotype-informed methods capable of detecting subexonic CNVs and variation within segmental duplications. Incorporating CNVs into analyses of rare variants predicted to cause gene loss of function (LOF) identified 100 associations of predicted LOF variants with 41 quantitative traits. A low-frequency partial deletion of RGL3 exon 6 conferred one of the strongest protective effects of gene LOF on hypertension risk (odds ratio = 0.86 (0.82–0.90)). Protein-coding variation in rapidly evolving gene families within segmental duplications—previously invisible to most analysis methods—generated some of the human genome’s largest contributions to variation in type 2 diabetes risk, chronotype and blood cell traits. These results illustrate the potential for new genetic insights from genomic variation that has escaped large-scale analysis to date.
Cell-type-specific and disease-associated expression quantitative trait loci in the human lung
Authors: Natri Heini M. , Del Azodi Christina B. , Peter Lance , Taylor Chase J. , Chugh Sagrika , Kendle Robert , Chung Mei-i , Flaherty David K. , Matlock Brittany K. , Calvi Carla L. , Blackwell Timothy S. , Ware Lorraine B. , Bacchetta Matthew , Walia Rajat , Shaver Ciara M. , Kropski Jonathan A. , McCarthy Davis J. , Banovich Nicholas E.
Published: March 2024

Common genetic variants confer substantial risk for chronic lung diseases, including pulmonary fibrosis. Defining the genetic control of gene expression in a cell-type-specific and context-dependent manner is critical for understanding the mechanisms through which genetic variation influences complex traits and disease pathobiology. To this end, we performed single-cell RNA sequencing of lung tissue from 66 individuals with pulmonary fibrosis and 48 unaffected donors. Using a pseudobulk approach, we mapped expression quantitative trait loci (eQTLs) across 38 cell types, observing both shared and cell-type-specific regulatory effects. Furthermore, we identified disease interaction eQTLs and demonstrated that this class of associations is more likely to be cell-type-specific and linked to cellular dysregulation in pulmonary fibrosis. Finally, we connected lung disease risk variants to their regulatory targets in disease-relevant cell types. These results indicate that cellular context determines the impact of genetic variation on gene expression and implicates context-specific eQTLs as key regulators of lung homeostasis and disease.
Genome assembly of a symbiotic balantidia (Balantidium ctenopharyngodoni) in fish hindgut
Authors: Zhao Weishan , Xiong Jie , Li Ming , Bu Xialian , Jiang Chuanqi , Wang Guangying , Zhang Jing , Li Wenxiang , Zou Hong , Miao Wei , Chen Kai , Wang Guitang
Published: March 2024

Balantidium ctenopharyngodoni is identified as the sole ciliate species that exclusively resides within the hindgut of grass carp with high prevalence and intensity. In this study, the successful cultivation of B. ctenopharyngodoni enabled us to collect enough cells for genome sequencing. Consequently, we acquired a high-quality genome assembly spanning 68.66 Mb, encompassing a total of 22,334 nanochromosomes. Furthermore, we predicted 29,348 protein-coding genes, and 95.5% of them was supported by the RNA-seq data. The trend of GC content in the subtelomeric regions of single-gene chromosomes was similar to other ciliates containing nanochromosomes. A large number of genes encoding carbohydrate-binding modules with affinities for starch and peptidoglycans was identified. The identification of mitochondrion-related organelles (MROs) within genome indicates its well-suited adaptation to the anaerobic conditions in the hindgut environment. In summary, our results will offer resources for understanding the genetic basis and molecular adaptations of balantidia to hindgut of herbivorous fish.
Harnessing Big Data in Critical Care: Exploring a new European Dataset
Authors: Rodemund Niklas , Wernly Bernhard , Jung Christian , Cozowicz Crispiana , Koköfer Andreas
Published: March 2024

Freely available datasets have become an invaluable tool to propel data-driven research, especially in the field of critical care medicine. However, the number of datasets available is limited. This leads to the repeated reuse of datasets, inherently increasing the risk of selection bias. Additionally, the need arose to validate insights derived from one dataset with another. In 2023, the Salzburg Intensive Care database (SICdb) was introduced. SICdb offers insights in currently 27,386 intensive care admissions from 21,583 patients. It contains cases of general and surgical intensive care from all disciplines. Amongst others SICdb contains information about: diagnosis, therapies (including data on preceding surgeries), scoring, laboratory values, respiratory and vital signals, and configuration data. Data for SICdb (1.0.6) was collected at one single tertiary care institution of the Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine at the Salzburger Landesklinik (SALK) and Paracelsus Medical University (PMU) between 2013 and 2021. This article aims to elucidate on the characteristics of the dataset, the technical implementation, and provides analysis of its strengths and limitations.