bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quantum dueling: an efficient solution for combinatorial optimization
Authors: Tang Letian , Wang Haorui , Li Zhengyang , Tang Haozhan , Zhang Chi , Li Shujin
Published: February 2024

In this paper, we present a new algorithm for generic combinatorial optimization, which we term quantum dueling. Traditionally, potential solutions to the given optimization problems were encoded in a ‘register’ of qubits. Various techniques are used to increase the probability of finding the best solution upon measurement. Quantum dueling innovates by integrating an additional qubit register, effectively creating a ‘dueling’ scenario where two sets of solutions compete. This dual-register setup allows for a dynamic amplification process: in each iteration, one register is designated as the ‘opponent,’ against which the other register’s more favorable solutions are enhanced through a controlled quantum search. This iterative process gradually steers the quantum state within both registers toward the optimal solution. With a quantitative contraction for the evolution of the state vector, classical simulation under a broad range of scenarios and hyper-parameter selection schemes shows that a quadratic speedup is achieved, which is further tested in more real-world situations. In addition, quantum dueling can be generalized to incorporate arbitrary quantum search techniques and as a quantum subroutine within a higher-level algorithm. Our work demonstrates that increasing the number of qubits allows the development of previously unthought-of algorithms, paving the way for advancement of efficient quantum algorithm design.
Poly(styrene-co-1-octene) behavioral differences in aliphatic and aromatic solvents: molecular dynamics simulation and DFT-D quantum calculations
Authors: Rasouli Sajad , Rohani Aliasghar
Published: February 2024

Copolymerizing aromatic and aliphatic comonomers helps to create efficient superabsorbents to remove oil from seawater. In this work, the best sequence of styrene and 1-octene at different 1-octene molar percentages (x) was found for poly(styrene-r−1-octene) (CP-x) using neural network potential. According to the calculated characteristics of CP-x using molecular dynamics simulation, increasing the x amount up to 6% in the chain aromatic structure caused the chain expansion by ∼ 20% and the reduction of its diffusion coefficient in n-heptane by ∼ 70%. The determined Helmholtz free energy via thermodynamic integration formula showed a decrease from −2762.7 to −3818.3 kcal mol−1 (∼ 38% reduction) and entropy changes illustrated an increase from 5.12 to 8.21 kcal mol−1.K (∼ 60% increase) indicating a partial conversion of the copolymer nature from aromatic to aliphatic with raising x. This issue led to a ∼ 15% enhancement in the interaction energy between the chain and solvent media meaning a better tendency to n-heptane and the increment of the interfacial density of the solvent molecules around the copolymer chain with higher x. The quantum calculations also proved that toluene with the chain styrene ring, and n-heptane with the chain 1-octene have created a parallel orientation, due to the charge transfer energy arising from an occupied C-H bonding orbital to an adjacent one. This phenomenon moved the electron density to the boundary area between them and changed the chain conformation in the media. Compression of the CP-x characteristics in n-heptane and toluene unmasked the contrariwise behaviors of the copolymer in aliphatic and aromatic solvents, except CP-4, which is the best candidate to use in the oil absorption from water surfaces. The performed theoretical investigation of the CP-x has revealed the hidden molecular insights into the copolymer chain which can help experimentalists reduce their trial and error to manufacture efficient supper oil absorbents.
Parameter estimation of ground moving targets in synthetic aperture radar systems based on vortex echo data
Authors: Fu Ziyu , Li Minchao , Cui Lizhen , Li Chenlu , Du Yongxing
Published: February 2024

Ground Moving Target Indication is a critical field within synthetic aperture radar (SAR) research, as traditional SAR images are defocused and displaced due to the target’s trajectory-direction velocity and radial velocity, respectively. Therefore, an accurate estimation of the target’s motion parameters is required. This study introduces a two-dimensional method for estimating target motion parameters using vortex SAR. It utilises the Bessel magnitude and spatial phase term from vortex echo data to calculate the pitch and azimuth angle, from which the motion parameters of ground slow-motion targets are derived. The proposed algorithm operates faster and has a lower computational cost than the traditional parameter estimation algorithm. Its efficacy was confirmed through simulation experiments and mean square error analysis of the estimated parameters.
The Mth nonlinear coherent states
Authors: Heydari S Majid , Jafari A , Abbasi O
Published: February 2024

Since radiation field states are very important in the interaction with the various atomic structures, in this article we introduce a new type of quantum states, which we call ‘Mth nonlinear coherent states’. We define these states based on acting of the number operator M times

n

ˆ

M

on a nonlinear coherent state. By analyzing the photon distribution function and its overlap with the nonlinear coherent states, it becomes clear that these states are very similar to the corresponding nonlinear coherent states. We also investigate the nonclassical features of such states for different values of M, and it is determined that the occurrence of sub-Poissonian photon statistics, normal squeezing, and amplitude squared squeezing are considerable nonclassical properties of the Mth nonlinear coherent states. Also, examining the Husimi function shows a local behavior for the introduced states. Furthermore, by calculating the Wigner function, we find out that in some points of the phase space, the value of this function is negative which could be considered as a nonclassical feature for these states.
Probing the Dark Matter density with gravitational waves from super-massive binary black holes
Authors: Ghoshal Anish , Strumia Alessandro
Published: February 2024

Supermassive black hole binaries source gravitational waves measured by Pulsar Timing Arrays.
The frequency spectrum of this stochastic background is predicted more precisely than its amplitude.
We argue that Dark Matter friction can suppress the spectrum around nHz frequencies, where it is measured,
allowing to derive robust and significant bounds on the Dark Matter density,
which, in turn, controls indirect detection signals from galactic centers.
A precise spectrum of gravitational waves would translate in a tomography
of the DM density profile, potentially probing DM particle-physics effects that induce a characteristic DM density profile,
such as DM annihilations or de Broglie wavelength.
Measuring and monitoring skill learning in closed-loop myoelectric hand prostheses using speed-accuracy tradeoffs
Authors: Mamidanna Pranav , Gholinezhad Shima , Farina Dario , Dideriksen Jakob Lund , Dosen Strahinja
Published: February 2024

Objective. Closed-loop myoelectric prostheses, which combine supplementary sensory feedback and electromyography (EMG) based control, hold the potential to narrow the divide between natural and bionic hands. The use of these devices, however, requires dedicated training. Therefore, it is crucial to develop methods that quantify how users acquire skilled control over their prostheses to effectively monitor skill progression and inform the development of interfaces that optimize this process. Approach. Building on theories of skill learning in human motor control, we measured speed-accuracy tradeoff functions (SAFs) to comprehensively characterize learning-induced changes in skill—as opposed to merely tracking changes in task success across training—facilitated by a closed-loop interface that combined proportional control and EMG feedback. Sixteen healthy participants and one individual with a transradial limb loss participated in a three-day experiment where they were instructed to perform the box-and-blocks task using a timed force-matching paradigm at four specified speeds to reach two target force levels, such that the SAF could be determined. Main results. We found that the participants’ accuracy increased in a similar way across all speeds we tested. Consequently, the shape of the SAF remained similar across days, at both force levels. Further, we observed that EMG feedback enabled participants to improve their motor execution in terms of reduced trial-by-trial variability, a hallmark of skilled behavior. We then fit a power law model of the SAF, and demonstrated how the model parameters could be used to identify and monitor changes in skill. Significance. We comprehensively characterized how an EMG feedback interface enabled skill acquisition, both at the level of task performance and movement execution. More generally, we believe that the proposed methods are effective for measuring and monitoring user skill progression in closed-loop prosthesis control.
A systematic review of forest area development drivers estimated under the concepts of environmental Kuznets curve and forest transition hypothesis
Authors: Tandetzki Julia , Köthke Margret , Schier Franziska , Weimar Holger
Published: February 2024

Over the last 30 years, more than 150 different drivers of forest area development have been investigated in peer-reviewed statistical analysis of the environmental Kuznets curve for deforestation (EKCd) and the forest transition hypothesis (FTH). However, there is no synthesis which of these drivers significantly contribute to changes in forest land expansion, like deforestation and forest recovery. To fill this gap, we conducted a systematic review of the scientific literature dealing with statistical analysis of drivers of forest area development under the concepts of EKCd and FTH. We referred to peer-reviewed articles, preselected by the evidence and gap map of Tandetzki et al 2022 Environ. Res. Lett.
17 123005. From these selected articles we identified 85 relevant studies and extracted the applied model specifications. We found differences among studies in variable specifications of the dependent variable (expressions of forest area development) and the choice of independent variables (drivers) as well as in the choice of geographical scope and the concept used (EKCd and FTH). For further analysis, we extracted all drivers used to explain forest area development in the different studies and assigned them to 12 thematic categories (e.g. income factors or institutional factors). Our results show that the main underlying drivers of deforestation are related to income, demographics, trade, and institutional factors. The forest transition phenomenon is mainly described by drivers directly influencing forest area (e.g. expansion of agricultural land) and demographic trends. The heterogeneity and universality of the concepts of EKCd and FTH is not clearly evident even when separating different study groups. By isolating and discussing individual drivers of forest area development, our findings support future research dedicated to the analysis and projection of global forest area dynamics.
Introduction
Authors: Chambers Clare
Published: February 2024

This chapter sets out the concept of feminist liberalism and distinguishes it from liberal feminism. Liberal feminism is a type of feminism that is sometimes described as ‘just about equality’; in addition, it understands freedom primarily in terms of choice. Feminist liberalism, in contrast, argues that a deeper conception of feminism is necessary for liberalism to secure the freedom and equality that are its core values. Feminism is necessary to counteract liberalism’s over-reliance on choice as a normative transformer: something that changes the normative character of a situation or inequality from unjust to just. The chapter also summarises the work to come.
Equality of Opportunity and Three Justifications for Women’s Sport
Authors: Chambers Clare
Published: February 2024

There is currently a divisive public debate about whether trans women should be eligible to compete in women’s sport, with prominent voices on both sides. Various sporting authorities have passed regulations that allow trans women to compete in women’s competitions, including those that award titles, records, and scholarships. Several elite athletes have strongly criticised those rules, arguing that they are unfair to women who are not trans, and some sporting bodies have announced a return to sex-based categories. The debate is muddled, and it rests on a prior question that is often obscured: is women’s sport justified at all? Any justification of women’s sport must engage directly with questions of equality of opportunity, discrimination, and identity. This chapter identifies three possible justifications for women’s sport: the fair competition argument, the anti-sexism argument, and the identity argument. Each argument has merit. However, the arguments are in tension with each other at key points, and they have different implications for trans inclusion.
Judging Women
Authors: Chambers Clare
Published: February 2024

This chapter engages with the work of landmark feminist Catharine MacKinnon to consider three ways of understanding the phrase ‘judging women’. First, when is it acceptable or necessary to make judgments about what women do? The chapter argues that feminist analysis urges compassion and empathy for women, but also highlights the ways that choices are limited and shaped by patriarchy. Thus we cannot and should not avoid all judgment of women’s—and men’s—choices. Second, when can women engage in the act of judging? It is sometimes claimed that it is anti-feminist to engage in such judgment, and that feminists must above all else avoid being judgmental. The chapter rejects this idea and argues instead that feminism should insist on women’s right to exercise judgment: women’s voices matter. Third, how are we to judge who counts as a woman? The chapter shows that MacKinnon’s work offers profound, sustained, rich analysis of these questions, but does not fully resolve them.
Ideology and Normativity
Authors: Chambers Clare
Published: February 2024

This chapter investigates the possibility of what Sally Haslanger calls ‘ideology critique’ in the context of ‘ideological oppression’. Like all oppression, ideological oppression involves unjust social practices. Its distinctive feature is that it is not recognised as oppression by its victims, or its perpetrators, or both—and this feature often applies to instances of sexist oppression. But ideological oppression causes problems for ideology critique, as Haslanger theorises it. Since ideological oppression is denied by those who suffer from it is it is not possible to identify privileged epistemological standpoints in advance. The chapter argues that ideology critique cannot rely on epistemological considerations alone but must be based on a normative political theory.
Restorations of Empire in Africa
Authors: Agbamu Samuel
Published: February 2024

This is the first full-length study to investigate the ideological uses of Roman imperialism in support of modern Italian colonialism in Africa. By taking a broad view of cultural documents from the second half of the nineteenth century and the first half of the twentieth century, this work argues that colonialism in Africa, modelled on ancient Roman imperialism, played a central role in the promotion and consolidation of the Italian project of nation-building. The work further suggests, based on this, that the phenomenon of Italian Fascist classicisms was rooted in pre-Fascist ideologies of liberal imperialism, thus contributing to a further historicization of the development of Fascism. This study, moreover, demonstrates the continued legacies of colonialism in Italy’s contemporary relationships towards Africa.
Introduction
Authors: Agbamu Samuel
Published: February 2024

The introduction situates the study within the context of the so-called migrant crisis in the Mediterranean. It suggests that the relationship between the Italian state and the migrants who cross the Mediterranean, from Africa to Europe, remains rooted in the history of Italian colonialism in Africa, which was itself rooted in Roman antiquity. This relationship is characterized by different historical constructions of the concept of mare nostrum, ancient Rome’s claiming of the Mediterranean as ‘our sea’. The introduction then outlines the key areas of scholarship in which this study intervenes: the genealogy of the idea of Africa in European cultural imaginaries; the relationship between the study of history and nation-building; the cult of ancient Rome in modern Italian politics (romanità); and the development of Italian Fascism.
The Fall of Italia Risorta: Ethiopia, Roman Africa, and the Invention of Italy
Authors: Agbamu Samuel
Published: February 2024

This chapter explores Italian discourses about Roman imperialism in the context of the Italy’s first colonies in East Africa, and its defeats in Ethiopia in the 1880s and 1890s. It begins by setting Italian imperial classicism in this period within the context of the classicizing imperialisms of other powers. First, it examines British and Egyptian imperial ambitions towards Ethiopia, framed with reference to ancient history. Next it charts Italy’s early colonial endeavours in East Africa, culminating with the defeat at the Battle of Dogali in 1887. This was commemorated in classical style, two significant instances being an obelisk in central Rome, and essays by Alfredo Oriani. The chapter suggests that, from the very beginning of the existence of the Italian nation state, colonialism in Africa, modelled on ancient Roman imperialism, was central to Italian national self-understanding.
Deep mitochondrial phylogeographical pattern: cryptic population structure within an ecological niche in the near-threatened Himalayan vulture (Gyps himalayensis)
Authors: Ummee Chanatip , Sitdhibutr Ratiwan , Lertwatcharasarakul Preeda , Kasorndorkbua Chaiyan
Published: February 2024

The Himalayan vulture (Gyps himalayensis) has higher environmental specificity than other species in the same genus, and its population has declined due to diclofenac exposure and shortage of carcasses as a food source. Previous analysis of mitochondrial (mt) DNA cytochrome b (Cyt b) sequences reported no distinct geographical population structure in the Himalayan vulture. Contradictory results were obtained in the present study, which investigated the population structure of 14 Himalayan vultures that migrated to Thailand during winter. Using samples obtained between 2010 and 2021, as well as limited GenBank samples, the study found that the Cyt b locus was incapable of distinguishing population structure. This dataset contrasted with the mtDNA control region (CR) and Cyt b + CR dataset, which divided them into two groups, as explained by the Middle–Late Pleistocene climate change scenario. The species split into populations from the central, western, and northern regions of its distribution range within the highland vulture ecological niche. This study reviews the different methods used as compared with previous proposals for defining guidelines for the conservation of this near-threatened scavenging species.
A machine learning approach for gene prioritization in Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Lanore Aymeric , Basset Aymeric , Lesage Suzanne
Published: February 2024

This scientific commentary refers to ‘Machine learning nominates the inositol pathway and novel genes in Parkinson’s disease’ by Yu et al. (https://doi.org/10.1093/brain/awad345).
Conventional and unconventional T-cell responses contribute to the prediction of clinical outcome and causative bacterial pathogen in sepsis patients
Authors: Burton Ross J , Raffray Loïc , Moet Linda M , Cuff Simone M , White Daniel A , Baker Sarah E , Moser Bernhard , O’Donnell Valerie B , Ghazal Peter , Morgan Matt P , Artemiou Andreas , Eberl Matthias
Published: February 2024

Sepsis is characterized by a dysfunctional host response to infection culminating in life-threatening organ failure that requires complex patient management and rapid intervention. Timely diagnosis of the underlying cause of sepsis is crucial, and identifying those at risk of complications and death is imperative for triaging treatment and resource allocation. Here, we explored the potential of explainable machine learning models to predict mortality and causative pathogen in sepsis patients. By using a modelling pipeline employing multiple feature selection algorithms, we demonstrate the feasibility of identifying integrative patterns from clinical parameters, plasma biomarkers, and extensive phenotyping of blood immune cells. While no single variable had sufficient predictive power, models that combined five and more features showed a macro area under the curve (AUC) of 0.85 to predict 90-day mortality after sepsis diagnosis, and a macro AUC of 0.86 to discriminate between Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacterial infections. Parameters associated with the cellular immune response contributed the most to models predictive of 90-day mortality, most notably, the proportion of T cells among PBMCs, together with expression of CXCR3 by CD4+ T cells and CD25 by mucosal-associated invariant T (MAIT) cells. Frequencies of Vδ2+ γδ T cells had the most profound impact on the prediction of Gram-negative infections, alongside other T-cell-related variables and total neutrophil count. Overall, our findings highlight the added value of measuring the proportion and activation patterns of conventional and unconventional T cells in the blood of sepsis patients in combination with other immunological, biochemical, and clinical parameters.
Mechanisms of Resistance to Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitors in ROS1 Fusion-Positive Nonsmall Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Zhao Xinmin , Zhang Xin , Chen Hanlin , Bao Hairong , Wu Xianghua , Wang Huijie , Bao Hua , Pang Jiaohui , Wang Sha , Wang Jialei
Published: February 2024

Background

ROS1 fusion-positive (ROS1+) nonsmall cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients are highly sensitive to tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI) treatments. However, acquired TKI resistance remains the major hurdle preventing patients from experiencing prolonged benefits.

Methods

107 advanced or metastatic ROS1+ NSCLC patients who progressed on crizotinib and lorlatinib were recruited. Tissue and plasma samples were collected at baseline (N = 50), postcrizotinib (N = 91), and postlorlatinib (N = 21), which were all subject to the 139-gene targeted next-generation DNA sequencing. Molecular dynamics modeling was performed to investigate the effects of ROS1 mutations on binding to different TKIs.

Results

In patients with postcrizotinib and postlorlatinib samples, an accumulation of on- and off-target resistance alterations after multiple TKI treatments was observed. ROS1 G2032R and MET amplification were the most common on-target and off-target alterations, respectively. Patients with CD74-ROS1 and SLC34A2-ROS1 had longer progression-free survival (PFS) (P < 0.001) and higher rates of resistance mutations (on-target, P = 0.001; off-target, P = 0.077) than other ROS1 fusion variants following crizotinib treatment. Ten distinct on-target resistance mutations were detected after TKI therapies, of which 4 were previously unreported (ROS1 L2010M, G1957A, D1988N, L1982V). Molecular dynamics simulations showed that all 4 mutations were refractory to crizotinib, while G1957A, D1988N, and L1982V were potentially sensitive to lorlatinib and entrectinib.

Conclusions

This study provided a comprehensive portrait of TKI-resistance mechanisms in ROS1+ NSCLC patients. Using in silico simulations of TKI activity, novel secondary mutations that may confer TKI resistance were identified and may support clinical therapeutic decision-making.
Unravelling the Oral–Gut Axis: Interconnection Between Periodontitis and Inflammatory Bowel Disease, Current Challenges, and Future Perspective
Authors: Tanwar Himanshi , Gnanasekaran Jeba Mercy , Allison Devon , Chuang Ling-shiang , He Xuesong , Aimetti Mario , Baima Giacomo , Costalonga Massimo , Cross Raymond K , Sears Cynthia , Mehandru Saurabh , Cho Judy , Colombel Jean-Frederic , Raufman Jean-Pierre , Thumbigere-Math Vivek
Published: February 2024

As the opposite ends of the orodigestive tract, the oral cavity and the intestine share anatomical, microbial, and immunological ties that have bidirectional health implications. A growing body of evidence suggests an interconnection between oral pathologies and inflammatory bowel disease [IBD], implying a shift from the traditional concept of independent diseases to a complex, reciprocal cycle. This review outlines the evidence supporting an ‘oral–gut’ axis, marked by a higher prevalence of periodontitis and other oral conditions in IBD patients and vice versa. We present an in-depth examination of the interconnection between oral pathologies and IBD, highlighting the shared microbiological and immunological pathways, and proposing a ‘multi-hit’ hypothesis in the pathogenesis of periodontitis-mediated intestinal inflammation. Furthermore, the review underscores the critical need for a collaborative approach between dentists and gastroenterologists to provide holistic oral–systemic healthcare.
Sexual selection and mate limitation shape evolution of species’ range limits
Authors: Tschol Maximilian , Reid Jane M , Bocedi Greta
Published: February 2024

Understanding what processes shape the formation of species’ geographic range limits is one central objective linking ecology and evolutionary biology. One potentially key process is sexual selection; yet, theory examining how sexual selection could shape eco-evolutionary dynamics in marginal populations is still lacking. In species with separate sexes, range limits could be shaped by limitations in encountering mates at low densities. Sexual selection could therefore modulate mate limitation and resulting extinction–colonization dynamics at range margins, through evolution of mate encounter ability and/or mate competition traits, and their demographic consequences. We use a spatially explicit eco-genetic model to reveal how different forms of sexual selection can variably affect emerging range limits. Larger ranges emerged when sexual selection acted exclusively on traits increasing mate encounter probability, thus reducing female’s mate limitation toward the range margins. In contrast, sexual selection via mate competition narrowed range limits due to increased trait-dependent mortality in males and elevated mate limitation for females. When mate encounter coevolved with mate competition, their combined effects on range limits depended on the mating system (polygyny vs. monogamy). Our results demonstrate that evolution of species’ ranges may be importantly shaped by feedbacks between sexual selection and spatial population demography and dynamics.
Changes in core–mantle boundary heat flux patterns throughout the supercontinent cycle
Authors: Dannberg Juliane , Gassmöller Rene , Thallner Daniele , LaCombe Frederick , Sprain Courtney
Published: February 2024

The Earth’s magnetic field is generated by a dynamo in the outer core and is crucial for shielding our planet from harmful radiation. Despite the established importance of the core–mantle boundary (CMB) heat flux as driver for the dynamo, open questions remain about how heat flux heterogeneities affect the magnetic field. Here, we explore the distribution of the CMB heat flux on Earth and its changes over time using compressible global 3-D mantle convection models in the geodynamic modelling software ASPECT. We discuss the use of the consistent boundary flux method as a tool to more accurately compute boundary heat fluxes in finite element simulations and the workflow to provide the computed heat flux patterns as boundary conditions in geodynamo simulations. Our models use a plate reconstruction throughout the last 1 billion years—encompassing the complete supercontinent cycle—to determine the location and sinking speed of subducted plates. The results show how mantle upwellings and downwellings create localized heat flux anomalies at the CMB that can vary drastically over Earth’s history and depend on the properties and evolution of the lowermost mantle as well as the surface subduction zone configuration. The distribution of hot and cold structures at the CMB changes throughout the supercontinent cycle in terms of location, shape and number, indicating that these structures fluctuate and might have looked very differently in Earth’s past. We estimate the resulting amplitude of spatial heat flux variations, expressed by the ratio of peak-to-peak amplitude to average heat flux, q*, to be at least 2. However, depending on the material properties and the adiabatic heat flux out of the core, q* can easily reach values >30. For a given set of material properties, q* generally varies by 30–50 per cent over time. Our results have implications for understanding the Earth’s thermal evolution and the stability of its magnetic field over geological timescales. They provide insights into the potential effects of the mantle on the magnetic field and pave the way for further exploring questions about the nucleation of the inner core and the past state of the lowermost mantle.
Cytolethal Distending Toxin Modulates Cell Differentiation and Elicits Epithelial to Mesenchymal Transition
Authors: Azzi-Martin Lamia , Touffait-Calvez Valentin , Everaert Maude , Jia Ruxue , Sifré Elodie , Seeneevassen Lornella , Varon Christine , Dubus Pierre , Ménard Armelle
Published: February 2024

Background

The bacterial genotoxin, cytolethal distending toxin (CDT), causes DNA damage in host cells, a risk factor for carcinogenesis. Previous studies have shown that CDT induces phenotypes reminiscent of epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT), a process involved in cancer initiation and progression.

Methods

We investigated different steps of EMT in response to Helicobacter hepaticus CDT and its active CdtB subunit using in vivo and in vitro models.

Results

Most of the steps of the EMT process were induced by CDT/CdtB and observed throughout the study in murine and epithelial cell culture models. CdtB induced cell-cell junction disassembly, causing individualization of cells and acquisition of a spindle-like morphology. The key transcriptional regulators of EMT (SNAIL and ZEB1) and some EMT markers were upregulated at both RNA and protein levels in response to CDT/CdtB. CdtB increased the expression and proteolytic activity of matrix metalloproteinases, as well as cell migration. A range of these results were confirmed in Helicobacter hepaticus-infected and xenograft murine models. In addition, colibactin, a genotoxic metabolite produced by Escherichia coli, induced EMT-like effects in cell culture.

Conclusions

Overall, these data show that infection with genotoxin-producing bacteria elicits EMT process activation, supporting their role in tumorigenesis.
Populist Foreign Policy: Mapping the Developing Research Program on Populism in International Relations
Authors: Wajner Daniel F , Giurlando Philip
Published: February 2024

This article reviews one of the expanding research programs in international relations (IR): the study of populist foreign policy (PFP). Recent years have witnessed a significant proliferation of IR scholars researching the nexus between the global rise of populism and their foreign policies across different countries, regions, and sub-fields. However, scientific progress at such stage of this research program demands an in-depth “mapping” of its different ontological approaches. To this end, we identify and explore five “schools” of PFP that have been consolidated in the last decade, while highlighting their accomplishments in understanding the distinctive populist elements in foreign policy and their possibilities of analyzing local and external conditions under which PFP impacts global politics. We also set the stage for future contributions on the drivers, patterns, and effects of PFP, under the assumption that the populist phenomenon and its transnational dimensions will continue to affect IR prospects for a long time to come.
Development and validation of an UPLC–MS/MS assay for the simultaneous quantification of seven commonly used antibiotics in human plasma and its application in therapeutic drug monitoring
Authors: Mekking Xin Meng , Velthoven-Graafland Kirsten , Teulen Marga J A , Brüggemann Roger J M , te Brake Lindsey H M , Jager Nynke G L
Published: February 2024

Objective

To develop and validate an UPLC–MS/MS assay for simultaneous determination of the total concentration of ceftazidime, ciprofloxacin, flucloxacillin, piperacillin, tazobactam, sulfamethoxazole, N-acetyl sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim, and the protein-unbound concentration of flucloxacillin, in human plasma to be used for research and clinical practice.

Methods

Sample pretreatment included protein precipitation with methanol. For the measurement of protein-unbound flucloxacillin, ultrafiltration was performed at physiological temperature. For all compounds, a stable isotopically labelled internal standard was used. Reliability of the results was assessed by participation in an international quality control programme.

Results

The assay was successfully validated according to the EMA guidelines over a concentration range of 0.5–100 mg/L for ceftazidime, 0.05–10 mg/L for ciprofloxacin, 0.4–125 mg/L for flucloxacillin, 0.2–60 mg/L for piperacillin, 0.15–30 mg/L for tazobactam, 1–200 mg/L for sulfamethoxazole and N-acetyl sulfamethoxazole, 0.05–10 mg/L for trimethoprim and 0.10–50 mg/L for unbound flucloxacillin. For measurement of total concentrations, the within- and between-day accuracy ranged from 90.0% to 109%, and 93.4% to 108%, respectively. Within- and between-day precision (variation coefficients, CVs) ranged from 1.70% to 11.2%, and 0.290% to 5.30%, respectively. For unbound flucloxacillin, within-day accuracy ranged from 103% to 106% and between-day accuracy from 102% to 105%. The within- and between-day CVs ranged from 1.92% to 7.11%. Results of the international quality control programme showed that the assay is reliable.

Conclusions

The method provided reliable, precise and accurate measurement of seven commonly prescribed antibiotics, including the unbound concentration of flucloxacillin. This method is now routinely applied in research and clinical practice.
Oviposition behavior of the quasi-gregarious parasitoid, Ooencyrtus kuvanae (Hymenoptera: Encyrtidae)
Authors: Hofstetter Richard W , Raffa Kenneth F , Halevy Miriam
Published: February 2024

The parasitoid wasp, Ooencyrtus kuvanae (Howard) (Hymenoptera: Encyrtidae), is a natural enemy of the spongy moth, a significant forest pest in North America. We investigated the oviposition behavior of O. kuvanae females on spongy moth egg masses by (i) presenting female parasitoids with a single spongy moth egg mass that was replaced every day, 2nd day, 4th day, 8th day, or 16th day (which is the total length of the oviposition period) and (ii) presenting female parasitoids with 1, 2, 4, or 8 egg masses at a time. Offspring developmental length ranged from 18 to 24 days. On average, male offspring exhibited faster developmental times, emerging approximately 1 day ahead of females. The amount of time that adult females spent on an egg mass affected the number of parasitized eggs. Specifically, more offspring emerged in the 4-, 8-, and 16-day treatments than in scenarios involving daily or every second-day egg mass replacement. The percentage of male offspring decreased as the number of egg masses presented to females increased. Interestingly, the total number of female offspring remained constant, but the number of male offspring decreased with an increase in the number of egg masses and time spent by the parent within a patch. The observed sexual dimorphism in development time, the influence of resource availability on offspring sex ratios, and flexible oviposition patterns illustrate the adaptability of O. kuvanae in response to varying conditions. These insights have implications for our understanding of parasitoid–host interactions and their potential role in biological control strategies.
PTP1B phosphatase dampens iPSC-derived neutrophil motility and antimicrobial function
Authors: Giese Morgan A , Bennin David A , Schoen Taylor J , Peterson Ashley N , Schrope Jonathan H , Brand Josh , Jung Ho Sun , Keller Nancy P , Beebe David J , Dinh Huy Q , Slukvin Igor I , Huttenlocher Anna
Published: February 2024

Neutrophils are rapidly recruited to sites of infection and are critical for pathogen clearance. Therapeutic use of primary neutrophils has been limited, as they have a short lifespan and are not amenable to genetic manipulation. Human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) can provide a robust source of neutrophils for infusion and are genetically tractable. However, current work has indicated that dampened intracellular signaling limits iPSC-derived neutrophil (iNeutrophil) cellular activation and antimicrobial response. Here, we show that protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B (PTP1B) inhibits intracellular signaling and dampens iNeutrophil effector function. Deletion of the PTP1B phosphatase increased PI3K and ERK signaling and was associated with increased F-actin polymerization, cell migration, and phagocytosis. In contrast, other effector functions like NETosis and reactive oxygen species production were reduced. PTP1B-deficient neutrophils were more responsive to Aspergillus fumigatus and displayed rapid recruitment and control of hyphal growth. Accordingly, depletion of PTP1B increased production of inflammatory factors including the neutrophil chemokine interleukin-8. Taken together, these findings suggest that PTP1B limits iNeutrophil motility and antimicrobial function.
Lymph node stromal cells vary in susceptibility to infection but can support the intracellular growth of Listeria monocytogenes
Authors: Tucker Jamila S , Khan Hiba , D’Orazio Sarah E F
Published: February 2024

Lymph node stromal cells (LNSCs) are an often overlooked component of the immune system but play a crucial role in maintaining tissue homeostasis and orchestrating immune responses. Our understanding of the functions these cells serve in the context of bacterial infections remains limited. We previously showed that Listeria monocytogenes, a facultative intracellular foodborne bacterial pathogen, must replicate within an as-yet-unidentified cell type in the mesenteric lymph node (MLN) to spread systemically. Here, we show that L. monocytogenes could invade, escape from the vacuole, replicate exponentially, and induce a type I interferon response in the cytosol of 2 LNSC populations infected in vitro, fibroblastic reticular cells (FRCs) and blood endothelial cells (BECs). Infected FRCs and BECs also produced a significant chemokine and proinflammatory cytokine response after in vitro infection. Flow cytometric analysis confirmed that GFP+  L. monocytogenes were associated with a small percentage of MLN stromal cells in vivo following foodborne infection of mice. Using fluorescent microscopy, we showed that these cell-associated bacteria were intracellular L. monocytogenes and that the number of infected FRCs and BECs changed over the course of a 3-day infection in mice. Ex vivo culturing of these infected LNSC populations revealed viable, replicating bacteria that grew on agar plates. These results highlight the unexplored potential of FRCs and BECs to serve as suitable growth niches for L. monocytogenes during foodborne infection and to contribute to the proinflammatory environment within the MLN that promotes clearance of listeriosis.
Spatial regulation of immunity: unmasking the secrets of abaxial immunity to powdery mildew
Authors: Xu Dawei , Yang Li
Published: February 2024

This article comments on:

Wu Y, Sexton WK, Zhang Q, Bloodgood D, Wu Y, Hooks C, Coker F, Vasquez A, Wei C-I, Xiao S. 2024. Leaf abaxial immunity to powdery mildew in Arabidopsis is conferred by multiple defense mechanisms. Journal of Experimental Botany 75, 1465–1478.
Fugitive Figurations of Chronic Disability: Reconstructing Black Disability Politics in Frances Harper’s Iola Leroy
Authors: Knadler Stephen
Published: February 2024

“Fugitive Figurations of Chronic Disability: Re-Constructing the Black Disability Politics in Frances Harper’s Iola Leroy” fills a gap in nineteenth-century Black disability histories that have overlooked questions of chronic disabilities. In Iola Leroy, Harper writes from the perspective of the chronically disabled and offers fugitive figurations that exceed, resist, and stand apart from nineteenth-century representations of white true women’s invalidism and racial pathologizations. Harper uses Iola’s and other characters’ chronic debilities as a social location for imagining an alternative Black epistemology of the chronic with its own “phraseology” to testify to the inseparability of racial and disability justice as a part of Black freedom struggles. As part of its fugitive figurations of chronic disabilities, Iola Leroy also unbinds Black bodies and minds from a disciplinary individualistic productive capitalist time; and it centers an inclusive postbellum Black community of collective mutual care that exposes the limitations of a liberal (white) sentimental politics of sympathy. Harper’s fugitive figurations of chronic disability in Iola Leroy raise important questions about the methods critics use to recover Black disability in nineteenth-century US literature, methods which too often mine for present-day models of disabled medical verisimilitude and visibility rather than excavating the alternative figurations that Black writers such as Harper employed as part of twinned anti-ableist and anti-racist liberation and care practice.
Multiwavelength variability analysis of Fermi-LAT blazars
Authors: Peñil P , Otero-Santos J , Ajello M , Buson S , Domínguez A , Marcotulli L , Torres−Albà N , González J Becerra , Acosta-Pulido J A
Published: February 2024

Blazars present highly variable gamma-ray emission. This variability, which can range from a few minutes to several years, is also observed at other wavelengths across the entire electromagnetic spectrum. We make use of the first 12 yr of data from the Fermi Large Area Telescope, complemented with multiwavelength (MWL) archival data from different observatories and facilities in radio, infrared, and optical bands, to study the possible periodic emission from 19 blazars previously claimed as periodic candidates. A periodicity analysis is performed with a pipeline for periodicity searches. Moreover, we study the cross-correlations between the gamma-ray and MWL light curves. Additionally, we use the fractional variability and the structure function to evaluate the variability time-scales. We find five blazars showing hints of periodic modulation with ≥3.0σ (≈0σ post-trials), with periods ranging from 1.2 to 4 yr, both in their gamma-ray and MWL emission. The results provide clues for understanding the physical mechanisms generating the observed periodicity.
Iron depletion in mineral dust grains from Saturn’s main rings
Authors: Linti Simon , Postberg Frank , Hsu Hsiang-Wen , Hillier Jon K , Fischer Christian , Trieloff Mario , Schmidt Jürgen , Kempf Sascha , Srama Ralf
Published: February 2024

During the Grand Finale orbits, Cassini’s Cosmic Dust Analyzer (CDA) recorded in situ mass spectra of ice and mineral nanodust grains ejected from Saturn’s main rings falling into the planet’s atmosphere. We present a compositional analysis of the mineral dust fraction employing a spectral deconvolution method to determine the elemental composition of these grains. The results indicate a relatively homogenous composition of exclusively Mg-rich silicates, with Mg, Si, and Ca close to CI chondritic abundances but a significant depletion in Fe and only traces of organic material at best. The Fe depletion becomes even more pronounced when compared to Fe-rich interplanetary dust particles encountered by CDA in the Saturnian system, which are assumed to contaminate and darken the main rings over time. We discuss potential explanations for the depletion, from which we favour compositional alteration of the infalling dust grains by impact-triggered chemistry in combination with dynamical selection effects and instrumental bias as the most plausible ones. This might cause an accumulation of Fe in the main rings over time, most likely in the form of oxides.
Establishing accretion flares from supermassive black holes as a source of high-energy neutrinos
Authors: van Velzen Sjoert , Stein Robert , Gilfanov Marat , Kowalski Marek , Hayasaki Kimitake , Reusch Simeon , Yao Yuhan , Garrappa Simone , Franckowiak Anna , Gezari Suvi , Nordin Jakob , Fremling Christoffer , Sharma Yashvi , Yan Lin , Kool Erik C , Stern Daniel , Veres Patrik M , Sollerman Jesper , Medvedev Pavel , Sunyaev Rashid , Bellm Eric C , Dekany Richard G , Duev Dimitri A , Graham Matthew J , Kasliwal Mansi M , Kulkarni Shrinivas R , Laher Russ R , Riddle Reed L , Rusholme Ben
Published: February 2024

The origin of cosmic high-energy neutrinos remains largely unexplained. For high-energy neutrino alerts from IceCube, a coincidence with time-variable emission has been seen for three different types of accreting black holes: (1) a gamma-ray flare from a blazar (TXS 0506+056), (2) an optical transient following a stellar tidal disruption event (TDE; AT2019dsg), and (3) an optical outburst from an active galactic nucleus (AGN; AT2019fdr). For the latter two sources, infrared follow-up observations revealed a powerful reverberation signal due to dust heated by the flare. This discovery motivates a systematic study of neutrino emission from all supermassive black hole with similar dust echoes. Because dust reprocessing is agnostic to the origin of the outburst, our work unifies TDEs and high-amplitude flares from AGN into a population that we dub accretion flares. Besides the two known events, we uncover a third flare that is coincident with a PeV-scale neutrino (AT2019aalc). Based solely on the optical and infrared properties, we estimate a significance of 3.6σ for this association of high-energy neutrinos with three accretion flares. Our results imply that at least ∼10 per cent of the IceCube high-energy neutrino alerts could be due to accretion flares. This is surprising because the sum of the fluence of these flares is at least three orders of magnitude lower compared to the total fluence of normal AGN. It thus appears that the efficiency of high-energy neutrino production in accretion flares is increased compared to non-flaring AGN. We speculate that this can be explained by the high Eddington ratio of the flares.