bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Representativeness of whole-genome sequencing approaches in England: the importance for understanding inequalities associated with SARS-CoV-2 infection
Authors: Twohig Katherine A. , Harman Katie , Zaidi Asad , Aliabadi Shirin , Nash Sophie G. , Sinnathamby Mary , Harrison Ian , Gallagher Eileen , Groves Natalie , Schwach Frank , Pearson Clare , Thornton Alicia , Myers Richard , Chand Meera , Thelwall Simon , Dabrera Gavin
Published: September 2023

Whole-genome sequencing (WGS) information has played a crucial role in the SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) pandemic by providing evidence about variants to inform public health policy. The purpose of this study was to assess the representativeness of sequenced cases compared with all COVID-19 cases in England, between March 2020 and August 2021, by demographic and socio-economic characteristics, to evaluate the representativeness and utility of these data in epidemiological analyses. To achieve this, polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-confirmed COVID-19 cases were extracted from the national laboratory system and linked with WGS data. During the study period, over 10% of COVID-19 cases in England had WGS data available for epidemiological analysis. With sequencing capacity increasing throughout the period, sequencing representativeness compared to all reported COVID-19 cases increased over time, allowing for valuable epidemiological analyses using demographic and socio-economic characteristics, particularly during periods with emerging novel SARS-CoV-2 variants. This study demonstrates the comprehensiveness of England’s sequencing throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, rapidly detecting variants of concern, and enabling representative epidemiological analyses to inform policy.
Exploring potential mechanisms for zinc deficiency to impact in autism spectrum disorder: a narrative review
Authors: Conti M.V. , Santero S. , Luzzi A. , Cena H.
Published: September 2023

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a heterogeneous and complex group of life-long neurodevelopmental disorders. How this clinical condition impacts an individual’s intellectual, social and emotional capacities, contributing to alterations in the proprioceptive and sensory systems and increasing their selective attitude towards food, is well described in the literature. This complex condition or status exposes individuals with ASD to an increased risk of developing overweight, obesity and non-communicable diseases compared with the neurotypical population. Moreover, individuals with ASD are characterised by higher levels of inflammation, oxidative stress markers and intestinal dysbiosis. All these clinical features may also appear in zinc deficiency (ZD) condition. In fact, zinc is an essential micronutrient for human health, serving as a structural, catalytic and regulatory component in numerous physiological processes. The aim of this narrative review is to explore role of ZD in ASD. Factors affecting zinc absorption, excretion and dietary intake in this vulnerable population are taken into consideration. Starting from this manuscript, the authors encourage future research to investigate the role of ZD in ASD. The perspective is to potentially find another missing piece in the ‘ASD clinical puzzle picture’ to improve the health status of these individuals.
Quantitative Relationship Between Current Pulses and Associated Low‐Frequency Magnetic Fields During Initial Stage of Rocket‐Triggered Lightning
Authors: Li Xiao , Lu Gaopeng , Wang Ziyi , Jiang Rubin , Fan Yanfeng , Zi Yucheng , Liu Feifan , Qamar Kainat , Nambalirwa Alice , Shi Tao , Zhu Baoyou
Published: September 2023

The quantitative relationship between the channel‐base current and the associated low‐frequency magnetic field (B‐field) during the early stage of rocket‐triggered lightning was examined based on field experiments and numerical simulation. There is a good correlation between the current pulse and the corresponding B‐field pulse in terms of amplitude and duration. In specific, the duration of current pulse is approximately proportional to that of the corresponding B‐field pulse for precursors and initial upward leaders; as for the pulse amplitude, the linear correlation is more apparent for the initial upward leaders when compared to the precursors, with the ratio of B‐field pulse and current pulse between 1.7 and 2.0, which is always greater than that (0.97–1.32) for the precursors. A response function is established to show the quantitative relationship in the time domain between the current pulse and the associated B‐field pulse, which is considered as the convolution of the current pulse and the response function. Meanwhile, the current waveform can be obtained if the measured B‐field pulse is de‐convolved with the response function. The simulation results are in good agreement with the measurement, which proves that our approach is accurate and efficient to quantify the relationship between the current and the B‐field pulse of the initial leader discharges.
Reply to Comment by Wei and Shen on “Seismic Velocity Variations at Different Depths Reveal the Dynamic Evolution Associated With the 2018 Kilauea Eruption”
Authors: Liu Zhiqiang , Liang Chuntao , Huang Huixuan , Wang Chaoliang , Cao Feihuang
Published: September 2023

We would like to thank Wei and Shen (2023, https://doi.org/10.1029/2022GL102596) (W23) for their comments on our recent article on GRL. In their comments, Wei and Shen argued that tremor signal on the right side of the cross‐correlation function (CCF) of PAUD‐STCD is from Kilauea crater, and they suggested that the observed time‐delay after eruption might be attributed to the noise source change and other factors. After checking the data and the code carefully, we recognize that signal on the right side of CCF of PAUD‐STCD may be due to seismicity from the Kilauea crater. However, we demonstrate here that it does not affect our conclusions.
Seasonal Link Between Deepwater Overflow Through the Luzon Strait and Deep Western Boundary Current in the Philippine Sea
Authors: Xu Qinbo , Zhang Linlin , Xiao Xin , Zhou Chun , Wang Fan , Hu Dunxin
Published: September 2023

The cold dense water from the Pacific sinks to the deep South China Sea (SCS) through the Luzon Strait, driving the abyssal and overturning circulations in the SCS, and affecting the Indonesia Throughflow and its associated heat and freshwater fluxes. Combining the ocean bottom pressure data and the hydrographic data, we reveal the seasonal link between Luzon Strait deepwater overflow (LSDO) and deep western boundary current (DWBC) in the Philippine Sea. The seasonal variation in the DWBC dominates the pressure difference between the Pacific and the SCS by adjusting the temperature field on the east side of the Luzon Strait, which in turn contributes to the seasonal variation in the LSDO. The enhanced DWBC in summer/autumn carries more relatively cold water from the high latitudes to the east of the Luzon Strait, increasing the local density and leading to the enhancement of the LSDO in autumn.
The Impact of Changes in Sea Level and East Asian Monsoon on Sediment Transport on the Sunda Shelf Since the Last Deglaciation
Authors: Wu Kaikai , Liu Shengfa , Shi Xuefa , Colin Christophe , Zhang Hui , Bassinot Franck , Liu Zhifei , Fang Xisheng , Miska Serge , Nouet Julius , Pinna‐Jamme Rosella , Dapoigny Arnaud , Rahim Mohamed Che Abd. , Khokiattiwong Somkiat , Kornkanitnan Narumol
Published: September 2023

The Sunda Shelf plays a key role in the sedimentation of the southern South China Sea (SCS). However, the impact of past climate changes on sediment transfer to the Sunda Shelf and the southern SCS is still unresolved. Here, we present new data on grain size, clay mineralogy, and Sr‐Nd isotopes of three marine cores, river sediments, and surface sediments of the Sunda Shelf. The results indicate that clay fractions of the central Sunda Shelf and the Gulf of Thailand derived mainly from the Mekong River and the rivers of northern Thailand since the last deglaciation. Significant changes in sediment sources are observed at 7.5 cal ka BP. From 13.3 to 7.5 cal ka BP, sediments in the Gulf of Thailand mainly originated from the rivers of northern Thailand, with contributions from the Mekong River increasing after 7.5 cal ka BP. An opposite shift is observed in the central Sunda Shelf. Such variations in the spatial distribution result from a combination of sea level and East Asian monsoon effects. After 7.5 cal ka BP, less Mekong River sediments were transported southeastwards into the southern SCS, and more sediments were gradually trapped within the delta and transported in a southwesterly direction into the Gulf of Thailand due to intense East Asian winter monsoon, which forced a strong southwestward coastal current. Our results demonstrate the important impact of East Asian winter monsoon strengthening and sea level rise in the mid‐Holocene, which can change sediment sources and transport processes on the Sunda Shelf.
Long-term survival benefit of anti-PD-1 therapy in patients with relapsed or refractory classical Hodgkin lymphoma
Authors: Liu Weiping , Lin Ningjing , Feng Xinqin , Xie Yan , You Chong , Zhou Xiaohua , Song Yuqin , Zhu Jun
Published: September 2023

Anti-programmed cell death-1 (anti-PD-1) therapies have shown a favorable efficacy and good tolerance for relapsed or refractory (r/r) classical Hodgkin lymphoma (cHL). However, there are limited data on long-term outcomes among patients with r/r cHL who achieve an objective response to anti-PD-1 therapies. A total of 260 responders from four, phase 2 clinical trials were included in this study. The median age was 32 years with a male/female ratio of 1.3:1. After a median follow-up period of 31.1 months, 116 (44.6%) responders experienced disease progression and 18 (6.9%) died. The 3-year progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) rates were 55.1% and 89.7% overall. Patients with partial remission (PR) had inferior outcomes compared with those who achieved complete remission (3-year PFS, 29.5% vs. 72.3%, P < 0.001; 3-year OS, 81.5% vs. 94.4%, P = 0.017). Moreover, the survival outcome was inferior for patients with refractory disease compared with those with relapsed disease. Multivariate Cox regression analysis showed PR and refractory disease were independent risk factors for PFS. In conclusion, PR and refractory disease have a negative impact on the survival benefit of anti-PD-1 therapeutics in patients with r/r cHL, which highlights the need for multimodal treatment strategies.
Water-assisted hydrogen spillover in Pt nanoparticle-based metal–organic framework composites
Authors: Gu Zhida , Li Mengke , Chen Cheng , Zhang Xinglong , Luo Chengyang , Yin Yutao , Su Ruifa , Zhang Suoying , Shen Yu , Fu Yu , Zhang Weina , Huo Fengwei
Published: September 2023

Hydrogen spillover is the migration of activated hydrogen atoms from a metal particle onto the surface of catalyst support, which has made significant progress in heterogeneous catalysis. The phenomenon has been well researched on oxide supports, yet its occurrence, detection method and mechanism on non-oxide supports such as metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) remain controversial. Herein, we develop a facile strategy for efficiency enhancement of hydrogen spillover on various MOFs with the aid of water molecules. By encapsulating platinum (Pt) nanoparticles in MOF-801 for activating hydrogen and hydrogenation of C=C in the MOF ligand as activated hydrogen detector, a research platform is built with Pt@MOF-801 to measure the hydrogenation region for quantifying the efficiency and spatial extent of hydrogen spillover. A water-assisted hydrogen spillover path is found with lower migration energy barrier than the traditional spillover path via ligand. The synergy of the two paths explains a significant boost of hydrogen spillover in MOF-801 from imperceptible existence to spanning at least 100-nm-diameter region. Moreover, such strategy shows universality in different MOF and covalent organic framework materials for efficiency promotion of hydrogen spillover and improvement of catalytic activity and antitoxicity, opening up new horizons for catalyst design in porous crystalline materials.
NET4 and RabG3 link actin to the tonoplast and facilitate cytoskeletal remodelling during stomatal immunity
Authors: Hawkins Timothy J. , Kopischke Michaela , Duckney Patrick J. , Rybak Katarzyna , Mentlak David A. , Kroon Johan T. M. , Bui Mai Thu , Richardson A. Christine , Casey Mary , Alexander Agnieszka , De Jaeger Geert , Kalde Monika , Moore Ian , Dagdas Yasin , Hussey Patrick J. , Robatzek Silke
Published: September 2023

Members of the NETWORKED (NET) family are involved in actin-membrane interactions. Here we show that two members of the NET family, NET4A and NET4B, are essential for normal guard cell actin reorganization, which is a process critical for stomatal closure in plant immunity. NET4 proteins interact with F-actin and with members of the Rab7 GTPase RABG3 family through two distinct domains, allowing for simultaneous localization to actin filaments and the tonoplast. NET4 proteins interact with GTP-bound, active RABG3 members, suggesting their function being downstream effectors. We also show that RABG3b is critical for stomatal closure induced by microbial patterns. Taken together, we conclude that the actin cytoskeletal remodelling during stomatal closure involves a molecular link between actin filaments and the tonoplast, which is mediated by the NET4-RABG3b interaction. We propose that stomatal closure to microbial patterns involves the coordinated action of immune-triggered osmotic changes and actin cytoskeletal remodelling likely driving compact vacuolar morphologies.
A R-loop sensing pathway mediates the relocation of transcribed genes to nuclear pore complexes
Authors: Penzo Arianna , Dubarry Marion , Brocas Clémentine , Zheng Myriam , Mangione Raphaël M. , Rougemaille Mathieu , Goncalves Coralie , Lautier Ophélie , Libri Domenico , Simon Marie-Noëlle , Géli Vincent , Dubrana Karine , Palancade Benoit
Published: September 2023

Nuclear pore complexes (NPCs) have increasingly recognized interactions with the genome, as exemplified in yeast, where they bind transcribed or damaged chromatin. By combining genome-wide approaches with live imaging of model loci, we uncover a correlation between NPC association and the accumulation of R-loops, which are genotoxic structures formed through hybridization of nascent RNAs with their DNA templates. Manipulating hybrid formation demonstrates that R-loop accumulation per se, rather than transcription or R-loop-dependent damages, is the primary trigger for relocation to NPCs. Mechanistically, R-loop-dependent repositioning involves their recognition by the ssDNA-binding protein RPA, and SUMO-dependent interactions with NPC-associated factors. Preventing R-loop-dependent relocation leads to lethality in hybrid-accumulating conditions, while NPC tethering of a model hybrid-prone locus attenuates R-loop-dependent genetic instability. Remarkably, this relocation pathway involves molecular factors similar to those required for the association of stalled replication forks with NPCs, supporting the existence of convergent mechanisms for sensing transcriptional and genotoxic stresses.
NLRP3 selectively drives IL-1β secretion by Pseudomonas aeruginosa infected neutrophils and regulates corneal disease severity
Authors: Minns Martin S. , Liboro Karl , Lima Tatiane S. , Abbondante Serena , Miller Brandon A. , Marshall Michaela E. , Tran Chau Jolynn , Roistacher Alicia , Rietsch Arne , Dubyak George R. , Pearlman Eric
Published: September 2023

Macrophages infected with Gram-negative bacteria expressing Type III secretion system (T3SS) activate the NLRC4 inflammasome, resulting in Gasdermin D (GSDMD)-dependent, but GSDME independent IL-1β secretion and pyroptosis. Here we examine inflammasome signaling in neutrophils infected with Pseudomonas aeruginosa strain PAO1 that expresses the T3SS effectors ExoS and ExoT. IL-1β secretion by neutrophils requires the T3SS needle and translocon proteins and GSDMD. In macrophages, PAO1 and mutants lacking ExoS and ExoT (ΔexoST) require NLRC4 for IL-1β secretion. While IL-1β release from ΔexoST infected neutrophils is also NLRC4-dependent, infection with PAO1 is instead NLRP3-dependent and driven by the ADP ribosyl transferase activity of ExoS. Genetic and pharmacologic approaches using MCC950 reveal that NLRP3 is also essential for bacterial killing and disease severity in a murine model of P. aeruginosa corneal infection (keratitis). Overall, these findings reveal a function for ExoS ADPRT in regulating inflammasome subtype usage in neutrophils versus macrophages and an unexpected role for NLRP3 in P. aeruginosa keratitis.
A CCL2+DPP4+ subset of mesenchymal stem cells expedites aberrant formation of creeping fat in humans
Authors: Wu Fengfei , Wu Fangting , Zhou Qian , Liu Xi , Fei Jieying , Zhang Da , Wang Weidong , Tao Yi , Lin Yubing , Lin Qiaoqiao , Pan Xinghua , Sun Kai , Xie Fang , Bai Lan
Published: September 2023

Creeping fat is a typical feature of Crohn’s disease. It refers to the expansion of mesenteric adipose tissue around inflamed and fibrotic intestines and is associated with stricture formation and intestinal obstruction. In this study, we characterize creeping fat as pro-adipogenic and pro-fibrotic. Lipidomics analysis of Crohn’s disease patients (sixteen males, six females) and healthy controls (five males, ten females) reveals abnormal lipid metabolism in creeping fat. Through scRNA-seq analysis on mesenteric adipose tissue from patients (five males, one female) and healthy controls (two females), we identify a CCL2+DPP4+ subset of mesenchymal stem cells that expands in creeping fat and expedites adipogenic differentiation into dystrophic adipocytes in response to CCL20+CD14+ monocytes and IL-6, leading to the formation of creeping fat. Ex vivo experiments (tissues from five males, one female) confirm that both CCL20+CD14+ monocytes and IL-6 activate DPP4+ mesenchymal stem cells towards a pro-adipogenic phenotype. This study provides a comprehensive investigation of creeping fat formation and offers a conceptual framework for discovering therapeutic targets for treatment of Crohn’s disease.
Observation of suppressed viscosity in the normal state of 3He due to superfluid fluctuations
Authors: Baten Rakin N. , Tian Yefan , Smith Eric N. , Mueller Erich J. , Parpia Jeevak M.
Published: September 2023

Evidence of fluctuations in transport have long been predicted in 3He. They are expected to contribute only within 100μK of Tc and play a vital role in the theoretical modeling of ordering; they encode details about the Fermi liquid parameters, pairing symmetry, and scattering phase shifts. It is expected that they will be of crucial importance for transport probes of the topologically nontrivial features of superfluid 3He under strong confinement. Here we characterize the temperature and pressure dependence of the fluctuation signature, by monitoring the quality factor of a quartz tuning fork oscillator. We have observed a fluctuation-driven reduction in the viscosity of bulk 3He, finding data collapse consistent with the predicted theoretical behavior.
Chronic cough relief by allosteric modulation of P2X3 without taste disturbance
Authors: Guo Chang-Run , Zhang Zhong-Zhe , Zhou Xing , Sun Meng-Yang , Li Tian-Tian , Lei Yun-Tao , Gao Yu-Hao , Li Qing-Quan , Yue Chen-Xi , Gao Yu , Lin Yi-Yu , Hao Cui-Yun , Li Chang-Zhu , Cao Peng , Zhu Michael X. , Rong Ming-Qiang , Wang Wen-Hui , Yu Ye
Published: September 2023

P2X receptors are cation channels that sense extracellular ATP. Many therapeutic candidates targeting P2X receptors have begun clinical trials or acquired approval for the treatment of refractory chronic cough (RCC) and other disorders. However, the present negative allosteric modulation of P2X receptors is primarily limited to the central pocket or the site below the left flipper domain. Here, we uncover a mechanism of allosteric regulation of P2X3 in the inner pocket of the head domain (IP-HD), and show that the antitussive effects of quercetin and PSFL2915 (our nM-affinity P2X3 inhibitor optimized based on quercetin) on male mice and guinea pigs were achieved by preventing allosteric changes of IP-HD in P2X3. While being therapeutically comparable to the newly licensed P2X3 RCC drug gefapixant, quercetin and PSFL2915 do not have an adverse effect on taste as gefapixant does. Thus, allosteric modulation of P2X3 via IP-HD may be a druggable strategy to alleviate RCC.
Synergism between CMG helicase and leading strand DNA polymerase at replication fork
Authors: Xu Zhichun , Feng Jianrong , Yu Daqi , Huo Yunjing , Ma Xiaohui , Lam Wai Hei , Liu Zheng , Li Xiang David , Ishibashi Toyotaka , Dang Shangyu , Zhai Yuanliang
Published: September 2023

The replisome that replicates the eukaryotic genome consists of at least three engines: the Cdc45-MCM-GINS (CMG) helicase that separates duplex DNA at the replication fork and two DNA polymerases, one on each strand, that replicate the unwound DNA. Here, we determined a series of cryo-electron microscopy structures of a yeast replisome comprising CMG, leading-strand polymerase Polε and three accessory factors on a forked DNA. In these structures, Polε engages or disengages with the motor domains of the CMG by occupying two alternative positions, which closely correlate with the rotational movement of the single-stranded DNA around the MCM pore. During this process, the polymerase remains stably coupled to the helicase using Psf1 as a hinge. This synergism is modulated by a concerted rearrangement of ATPase sites to drive DNA translocation. The Polε-MCM coupling is not only required for CMG formation to initiate DNA replication but also facilitates the leading-strand DNA synthesis mediated by Polε. Our study elucidates a mechanism intrinsic to the replisome that coordinates the activities of CMG and Polε to negotiate any roadblocks, DNA damage, and epigenetic marks encountered during translocation along replication forks.
Breastfeeding and impact on childhood hospital admissions: a nationwide birth cohort in South Korea
Authors: Lee Jeong-Seon , Shin Jae Il , Kim Sunyeup , Choi Yong-Sung , Shin Youn Ho , Hwang Jimin , Shin Jung U , Koyanagi Ai , Jacob Louis , Smith Lee , Jeong Han Eol , Noh Yunha , Oh In-Sun , Rhee Sang Youl , Min Chanyang , Cho Seong Ho , Turner Steve , Fond Guillaume , Boyer Laurent , Suh Dong In , Acharya Krishna Prasad , Shin Ju-Young , Lee Seung Won , Yon Dong Keon
Published: September 2023

Benefits of breastfeeding for both the mother and the child are well established, but a comprehensive and robust study to investigate the protective effect of breastfeeding and attenuated time effect stratified by cause of morbidity are lacking. This study is based on the nationwide birth cohort in Korea that includes data on all infants born from 2009 to 2015. Of 1,608,540 children, the median follow-up period was 8.41 years (interquartile range, 6.76-10.06). When compared to children with fully formula feeding, the hospital admission rate was 12% lower in those with partially breastfeeding and 15% lower in those with exclusive breastfeeding. The apparent protective effect of breastfeeding was reduced with increasing age. Our study provides potential evidence of the beneficial association of breastfeeding on subsequent hospital admissions. The protective effect declined over time as the children grew older. Encouraging any breastfeeding for at least the first 6 months among infants is an important public health strategy to improve overall child health.
Neural representation of goal direction in the monarch butterfly brain
Authors: Beetz M. Jerome , Kraus Christian , el Jundi Basil
Published: September 2023

Neural processing of a desired moving direction requires the continuous comparison between the current heading and the goal direction. While the neural basis underlying the current heading is well-studied, the coding of the goal direction remains unclear in insects. Here, we used tetrode recordings in tethered flying monarch butterflies to unravel how a goal direction is represented in the insect brain. While recording, the butterflies maintained robust goal directions relative to a virtual sun. By resetting their goal directions, we found neurons whose spatial tuning was tightly linked to the goal directions. Importantly, their tuning was unaffected when the butterflies changed their heading after compass perturbations, showing that these neurons specifically encode the goal direction. Overall, we here discovered invertebrate goal-direction neurons that share functional similarities to goal-direction cells reported in mammals. Our results give insights into the evolutionarily conserved principles of goal-directed spatial orientation in animals.
Large T cell clones expressing immune checkpoints increase during multiple myeloma evolution and predict treatment resistance
Authors: Botta Cirino , Perez Cristina , Larrayoz Marta , Puig Noemi , Cedena Maria-Teresa , Termini Rosalinda , Goicoechea Ibai , Rodriguez Sara , Zabaleta Aintzane , Lopez Aitziber , Sarvide Sarai , Blanco Laura , Papetti Daniele M. , Nobile Marco S. , Besozzi Daniela , Gentile Massimo , Correale Pierpaolo , Siragusa Sergio , Oriol Albert , González-Garcia Maria Esther , Sureda Anna , de Arriba Felipe , Rios Tamayo Rafael , Moraleda Jose-Maria , Gironella Mercedes , Hernandez Miguel T. , Bargay Joan , Palomera Luis , Pérez-Montaña Albert , Goldschmidt Hartmut , Avet-Loiseau Hervé , Roccaro Aldo , Orfao Alberto , Martinez-Lopez Joaquin , Rosiñol Laura , Lahuerta Juan-José , Blade Joan , Mateos Maria-Victoria , San-Miguel Jesús F. , Martinez Climent Jose-Angel , Paiva Bruno ,   the Programa Para el Estudio de la Terapéutica en Hemopatías Malignas/Grupo Español de Mieloma (PETHEMA/GEM) cooperative group,   the iMMunocell study group
Published: September 2023

Tumor recognition by T cells is essential for antitumor immunity. A comprehensive characterization of T cell diversity may be key to understanding the success of immunomodulatory drugs and failure of PD-1 blockade in tumors such as multiple myeloma (MM). Here, we use single-cell RNA and T cell receptor sequencing to characterize bone marrow T cells from healthy adults (n = 4) and patients with precursor (n = 8) and full-blown MM (n = 10). Large T cell clones from patients with MM expressed multiple immune checkpoints, suggesting a potentially dysfunctional phenotype. Dual targeting of PD-1 + LAG3 or PD-1 + TIGIT partially restored their function in mice with MM. We identify phenotypic hallmarks of large intratumoral T cell clones, and demonstrate that the CD27− and CD27+ T cell ratio, measured by flow cytometry, may serve as a surrogate of clonal T cell expansions and an independent prognostic factor in 543 patients with MM treated with lenalidomide-based treatment combinations.
Anionic ring-opening polymerization of functional epoxide monomers in the solid state
Authors: Park Jihye , Kim Ahyun , Kim Byeong-Su
Published: September 2023

Despite recent advancements in mechanochemical polymerization, understanding the unique mechanochemical reactivity during the ball milling polymerization process still requires extensive investigations. Herein, solid-state anionic ring-opening polymerization is used to synthesize polyethers from various functional epoxide monomers. The critical parameters of the monomers are investigated to elucidate the unique reactivity of ball milling polymerization. The controllable syntheses of the desired polyethers are characterized via NMR, GPC, and MALDI-ToF analyses. Interestingly, bulky monomers exhibit faster conversions in the solid-state in clear contrast to that observed for solution polymerization. Particularly, a close linear correlation is observed between the conversion of the ball milling polymerization and melting point of the functional epoxide monomers, indicating melting point as a critical predictor of mechanochemical polymerization reactivity. This study provides insights into the efficient design and understanding of mechanochemical polymerization.
An entropy-controlled objective chip for reflective confocal microscopy with subdiffraction-limit resolution
Authors: He Jun , Zhao Dong , Liu Hong , Teng Jinghua , Qiu Cheng-Wei , Huang Kun
Published: September 2023

Planar diffractive lenses (PDLs) with optimized but disordered structures can focus light beyond the diffraction limit. However, these disordered structures have inevitably destroyed wide-field imaging capability, limiting their applications in microscopy. Here, we introduce information entropy S to evaluate the disorder of an objective chip by using the probability of its structural deviation from standard Fresnel zone plates. Inspired by the theory of entropy change, we predict an equilibrium point $${S}_{0}=0.5$$

S

0

=
0.5
to balance wide-field imaging (theoretically evaluated by the Strehl ratio) and subdiffraction-limit focusing. To verify this, a $${NA}=0.9$$
N
A
=
0.9
objective chip with a record-long focal length of 1 mm is designed with $$S=0.535$$
S
=
0.535
, which is the nearest to the equilibrium point among all reported PDLs. Consequently, our fabricated chip can focus light with subdiffraction-limit size of 0.44 λ and image fine details with spatial frequencies up to 4000 lp/mm experimentally. These unprecedented performances enable ultracompact reflective confocal microscopy for superresolution imaging.
The effect of high perioperative inspiratory oxygen fraction for abdominal surgery on surgical site infection: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Kuh Jae Hee , Jung Woo-Seok , Lim Leerang , Yoo Hae Kyung , Ju Jae-Woo , Lee Ho-Jin , Kim Won Ho
Published: September 2023

Guidelines from the World Health Organization strongly recommend the use of a high fraction of inspired oxygen (FiO2) in adult patients undergoing general anesthesia to reduce surgical site infection (SSI). However, previous meta-analyses reported inconsistent results. We aimed to address this controversy by focusing specifically on abdominal surgery with relatively high risk of SSI. Medline, EMBASE, and Cochrane CENTRAL databases were searched. Randomized trials of abdominal surgery comparing high to low perioperative FiO2 were included, given that the incidence of SSI was reported as an outcome. Meta-analyses of risk ratios (RR) were performed using a fixed effects model. Subgroup analysis and meta-regression were employed to explore sources of heterogeneity. We included 27 trials involving 15977 patients. The use of high FiO2 significantly reduced the incidence of SSI (n = 27, risk ratio (RR): 0.87; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.79, 0.95; I2 = 49%, Z = 3.05). Trial sequential analysis (TSA) revealed that z-curve crossed the trial sequential boundary and data are sufficient. This finding held true for the subgroup of emergency operations (n = 2, RR: 0.54; 95% CI: 0.35, 0.84; I2 = 0%, Z = 2.75), procedures using air as carrier gas (n = 9, RR: 0.79; 95% CI: 0.69, 0.91; I2 = 60%, Z = 3.26), and when a high level of FiO2 was maintained for a postoperative 6 h or more (n = 9, RR: 0.68; 95% CI: 0.56, 0.83; I2 = 46%, Z = 3.83). Meta-regression revealed no significant interaction between SSI with any covariates including age, sex, body-mass index, diabetes mellitus, duration of surgery, and smoking. Quality of evidence was assessed to be moderate to very low. Our pooled analysis revealed that the application of high FiO2 reduced the incidence of SSI after abdominal operations. Although TSA demonstrated sufficient data and cumulative analysis crossed the TSA boundary, our results should be interpreted cautiously given the low quality of evidence.

Registration: https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero (CRD42022369212) on October 2022.
Hafted technologies likely reduced stone tool-related selective pressures acting on the hominin hand
Authors: Mika Anna , Lierenz Julie , Smith Andrew , Buchanan Briggs , Walker Robert S. , Eren Metin I. , Bebber Michelle R. , Key Alastair
Published: September 2023

The evolution of the hominin hand has been widely linked to the use and production of flaked stone tool technologies. After the earliest handheld flake tools emerged, shifts in hominin hand anatomy allowing for greater force during precision gripping and ease when manipulating objects in-hand are observed in the fossil record. Previous research has demonstrated how biometric traits, such as hand and digit lengths and precision grip strength, impact functional performance and ergonomic relationships when using flake and core technologies. These studies are consistent with the idea that evolutionary selective pressures would have favoured individuals better able to efficiently and effectively produce and use flaked stone tools. After the advent of composite technologies during the Middle Stone Age and Middle Palaeolithic, fossil evidence reveals differences in hand anatomy between populations, but there is minimal evidence for an increase in precision gripping capabilities. Furthermore, there is little research investigating the selective pressures, if any, impacting manual anatomy after the introduction of hafted composite stone technologies (‘handles’). Here we investigated the possible influence of tool-user biometric variation on the functional performance of 420 hafted Clovis knife replicas. Our results suggest there to be no statistical relationships between biometric variables and cutting performance. Therefore, we argue that the advent of hafted stone technologies may have acted as a ‘performance equaliser’ within populations and removed (or reduced) selective pressures favouring forceful precision gripping capabilities, which in turn could have increased the relative importance of cultural evolutionary selective pressures in the determination of a stone tool’s performance.
Associations between pre-pandemic authoritative parenting, pandemic stressors, and children’s depression and anxiety at the initial stage of the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Heaton Karina G. , Camacho Nicolas L. , Gaffrey Michael S.
Published: September 2023

Large-scale changes due to the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic negatively affected children’s mental health. Prior research suggests that children’s mental health problems during the pandemic may have been concurrently attenuated by an authoritative parenting style and exacerbated by family stress. However, there is a gap in the literature investigating these mechanisms and whether pre-pandemic authoritative parenting had a lasting positive influence on children’s mental health while they were exposed to pandemic-related family stressors. The current study begins to fill this gap by investigating these unique relationships in a sample of 106 4–8 year old children (51% female). Before the pandemic, caregivers completed questionnaires on their parenting style and their children’s depression and anxiety symptoms. Shortly after the onset of COVID-19’s stay-at-home mandate, parents answered questionnaires about their children’s depression and anxiety symptoms and pandemic-related family stressors. Child depression and anxiety symptom severity increased. Higher levels of pandemic-related family stress were associated with increases only in child anxiety scores. Further, greater endorsement of a pre-pandemic authoritative parenting style was associated with smaller changes only in child depression scores. Study findings elucidate unique and complex associations between young children’s anxiety and depression symptoms severity and pre-pandemic parenting and pandemic-related family stressors.
Assessment of rehabilitation effects in children with mild intellectual disability
Authors: Wolan-Nieroda Andżelina , Wojnarska Anna , Mańko Grzegorz , Kiper Aleksandra , Guzik Agnieszka , Maciejczak Andrzej
Published: September 2023

Research on effectiveness of rehabilitation programmes continues to investigate impact of therapeutic interventions on various motor parameters in children with intellectual disability (ID). This study compared the effectiveness of rehabilitation, reflected by physical fitness, static balance, and dynamic balance measurements, in children with mild ID. A total of 70 children with mild ID were enrolled for the study and were divided into two equal groups based on their body mass index (BMI) percentile, reflecting obesity or normal weight. Physical fitness was assessed using the Eurofit Special Test, whereas balance was evaluated with single-leg stance and timed up and go tests. The examinations were performed twice: At the beginning and at the end of a six-month therapy programme. Improvements were shown in the muscle strength of the upper limbs (p < 0.001) and lower limbs (p = 0.001), flexibility (p = 0.005), and static balance (p < 0.001) for the entire cohort. The effects of rehabilitation did not differ significantly between the children with obesity and those with a normal weight. These results may be important from the viewpoint of clinical practice and preventive measures, as they present evidence showing that rehabilitation is equally effective in both obese and normal weight children with mild ID. Therefore, these findings may be of assistance to those designing therapeutic programmes in special education centres.
Pro-ecological and conservation activities are not always beneficial to nature: a case study of two lowland streams in Central Europe
Authors: Golski Janusz , Andrzejewski Wojciech , Urbańska Maria , Runowski Sławomir , Dajewski Krzysztof , Hoffmann Lilianna
Published: September 2023

Since 1990 and in particular, after the implementation of the Water Frame Directive, many positive effects of pro-ecological projects are evident; unfortunately, examples of adverse effects have also been observed. This study aims to indicate how some ill-considered actions, called “pro-ecological”, may lead to habitat degradation and the disappearance of valuable hydrobiont species. Two watercourses, representing the lowland gravel stream and sandy stream type, were selected for the study. Literature indicated that in the past, these watercourses were characterized by an excellent ecological status and the presence of valuable rheophilic fauna and flora. Environmental parameters were recorded, macroinvertebrates and ichthyofauna were sampled and analyzed, and finally, indexes were calculated. The results were compared with literature data. In the course of studies conducted in 2011–2015, drastic habitat deterioration and extensive changes in the species structure of ichthyofauna and aquatic invertebrates were observed. Changes in the Smolnica stream have been caused by the three retention basins constructed in 2000, along the lower and middle course; while in Kiszewko, however, the factor for habitat deterioration was connected with the excessive expansion of the Eurasian beaver (Castor fiber), which created a beaver pond 20 m in width, with impoundment elevations of up to 2 m.
Shaping characteristics of excavation contours in sequential controlled fracture blasting of rock-anchored beams in Shuangjiangkou underground powerhouse
Authors: Chen Yanglong , Huang Junhong , Zhang Tengsheng , Wang Zixu , Li Xinping , Luo Yi , Liu Tingting
Published: September 2023

Influences of high in-situ stress generally need to be considered when excavating deep underground caverns. The dynamic fracture behaviors of rocks under blast loads were investigated by using the rock-anchored beam excavation in underground powerhouses of Shuangjiangkou Hydropower Station in Sichuan Province, China as the engineering background. To solve the problems of the poor blasting breakage effect of rocks and the difficulty in protecting surrounding rocks during excavation, mechanical properties of granite under static and dynamic loads were investigated and the sequential controlled fracture blasting (SCFB) method was adopted during in-situ tests. Based on the Riedel-Hiermaier-Thoma constitutive model and the strength criterion, software LS-DYNA was employed to simulate the dynamic propagation of blasting-induced cracks. The contour shaping effect obtained via numerical simulation is generally consistent with the test results. The results show that SCFB can to some extent control the direction of crack initiation and rock fracture behavior of the blasthole wall cracks and the spacing of successive bursting holes is about 10 times the diameter of the blastholes when the cracks between the blastholes are shaped the best effect. Moreover, the magnitude and direction of principal in-situ stress can both affect the propagation path and length of blasting-induced cracks. The results of the research on the excavation and construction of deeply buried underground caverns have a certain reference value.
Strategical selection of maintenance type under different conditions
Authors: Hamasha Mohammad M. , Bani-Irshid Ala H. , Al Mashaqbeh Sahar , Shwaheen Ghada , Al Qadri Laith , Shbool Mohammad , Muathen Dania , Ababneh Mussab , Harfoush Shahed , Albedoor Qais , Al-Bashir Adnan
Published: September 2023

Selecting the appropriate maintenance type is a challenging task that involves multiple criteria working together. This decision has a significant impact on the organization and its overall market sustainability. The primary categorization of maintenance consists of two main types: corrective maintenance and preventive maintenance. All other classifications are encompassed within these two categories. For instance, preventive maintenance can be further classified as either predictive maintenance or periodic maintenance. Given the importance of this decision, this paper discusses the optimal maintenance type under different conditions. The scale of the business, the cost of machine failure, the effect of machine failure on the production schedule, the effect of machine failure on worker safety and the workplace environment, the availability of spare parts, the lifespan of the machine, and the manufacturing process are some of the factors that are covered in this paper. This paper primarily aims to present a comprehensive literature review concerning the strategic decision-making process for selecting the appropriate maintenance type under varying conditions. Additionally, the paper incorporates various models and visual aids within its content to facilitate and guide the decision-making procedure. Corrective maintenance is usually necessary in the case of small companies, significant impact on business or production plans due to failures, potential risks to public safety, ready availability of spare parts, and when production processes are not interdependent. If these parameters are not met, preventive maintenance can be a better option. Since these circumstances frequently do not occur simultaneously, it is imperative for the business to give them significant consideration.
Structural and functional differences in auto-antibody positive compared to auto-antibody negative hypothyroid patients with chronic thyroiditis
Authors: Iwamoto Yuichiro , Kimura Tomohiko , Itoh Takashi , Mori Shigehito , Sasaki Taku , Sugisaki Toshitomo , Nakao Erina , Ohnishi Mana , Kusano Takashi , Takenouchi Haruka , Iwamoto Hideyuki , Sanada Junpei , Fushimi Yoshiro , Katakura Yukino , Tatsumi Fuminori , Shimoda Masashi , Nakanishi Shuhei , Mune Tomoatsu , Kaku Kohei , Kaneto Hideaki
Published: September 2023

Most primary hypothyroidism in adults is caused by chronic thyroiditis. Autoantibodies such as anti-thyroglobulin antibody (TgAb) and anti-thyroid peroxidase antibody (TPOAb) are involved in the pathogenesis of chronic thyroiditis. On the other hand, the clinical features of antibody-negative hypothyroidism are not clear. In this study, we aimed to determine the prevalence of thyroid-related autoantibodies in patients with primary hypothyroidism and to evaluate the differences in thyroid structure between antibody-positive and antibody-negative hypothyroidism. Among 804 patients who attended Kawasaki Medical School Hospital for thyroid hormone abnormalities or thyroid gland enlargement between January 1, 2010 and December 31, 2021, 237 patients with primary hypothyroidism who underwent thyroid antibody measurement and thyroid ultrasound examination were included. Participants were divided into groups according to antibody positivity/negativity, and differences in antibody positivity and thyroid structure were evaluated. In this study, 34.6% of patients had antibody-negative hypothyroidism. The positive rate of each antibody was 62.0% for TgAb and 49.4% for TPOAb. The participants with antibody-positive hypothyroidism had significantly larger thyroid gland on thyroid ultrasound examination (p < 0.05). Thyroid-stimulating hormone was significantly higher in participants with antibody-positive compared to antibody-negative hypothyroidism. The present study reveals a positive rate of thyroid-related autoantibodies in patients with hypothyroidism and the differences in thyroid structure between patients with and without antibodies. This study clearly show that the prevalence of antibody-negative chronic thyroiditis is quite high among hypothyroid patients, although this point needs confirmation by further investigations. The data in this study would be useful for the treatment of antibody-negative hypothyroid patients.
Clinical symbiosis of hybrid nanoparticles and induced magnetic field on heat and mass transfer in multiple stenosed artery with erratic thrombosis
Authors: Hussain Azad , Dar Muhammad Naveel Riaz , Cheema Warda Khalid , Han Yanshuo , Kanwal Rimsha
Published: September 2023

This article scrutinizes blood circulation through an artery having magnetized hybrid nanoparticles (silver and gold) with multiple stenoses at the outer walls and erratic thrombus of different radii at the center. In the realm of biomedical innovation, magnetized hybrid nanoparticles emerge as a captivating frontier. These nanoparticles, amalgamating diverse materials, exhibit magnetic properties that engender novel prospects for targeted drug delivery, medical imaging enhancement, and therapeutic interventions. The study was carried out employing modern bio-fluid dynamics (BFD) software. In this iterative procedure, a second-order finite difference approach is used to solve the governing equations with 0.005 tolerance. The experiment is performed on a blood conduit with mild stenosis assumptions, and expressions of temperature, resistance impedance to flow, velocity, wall shear stress, and pressure gradient are generated by employing related boundary conditions. No one has ever attempted to acquire the remedial impact of an induced magnetic field and hybrid nanoparticles on the bloodstream in a tapering artery containing multiple stenoses on the outside walls and multi-thrombus at the center using 3-D bio-fluid simulation. Furthermore, the study's findings are unique, and these computational discoveries were not previously published by any researcher. The findings suggest that hybrid nanoparticles can be used as medication carriers to reduce the impact of thrombosis and stenosis-induced resistance to blood flow or coagulation-related factors.
Simultaneous DHA and organic selenium production by Schizochytrium sp.: a theoretical basis
Authors: Zhang Yunqiang , Liu Zikui , Xiao Gang , Shi Jiawei , Liu Baili , Xiao Ning , Sun Zhiliang
Published: September 2023

Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and selenium (Se) are nutrients that confer several health benefits to both humans and animals. Widespread use of DHA in milk powder and health products requires large-scale mass production via Schizochytrium sp., while Se intended for human consumption is produced as organic Se via yeast. However, producing these nutrients on an industrial scale is constrained by various factors. We found that supplementing Schizochytrium sp. with Na2SeO3 (0.5 mg/L) improves its biomass and DHA production and also provides organic Se. De novo assembled transcriptome and biochemical indicators showed that Na2SeO3 promotes forming acetyl coenzyme A and L-cysteine via the glycerol kinase and cysteine synthase pathways, promoting DHA synthesis through the polyketide synthase pathway. However, high doses of Na2SeO3 (5 mg/L) limited the biomass of Schizochytrium sp. and DHA content. This study provided a theoretical basis for the simultaneous production of organic Se and DHA via Schizochytrium sp.