bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Unlocking clues on the provenance of the Zigzag Formation in Mountain Province, Northern Luzon, Philippines using sedimentary geochemistry
Authors: Joshua Novero Mark , Jan Sangalang Kenneth , Aira Gabo-Ratio Jillian , Dimalanta Carla , Payot Betchaida , Yna Rose Garcia Ma. , Alex Vianne Amoroso Juan , Manalo Pearlyn , Takahashi Ryohei
Published: July 2024

Provenance analysis using whole-rock geochemical data was carried out on the Late Oligocene to Early Miocene Zigzag Formation in southwestern Mountain Province, North Luzon, Philippines. Major and trace element geochemistry of the siliciclastic samples from the Zigzag Formation revealed a first-cycle mafic source of the detrital materials. This is consistent with other discrimination diagrams such as those using La, Sc, and Th to determine the provenance. Tectonic discrimination diagrams suggest an oceanic island arc signature for the source rocks of the Zigzag Formation. The Cretaceous to Eocene Lepanto Metavolcanics is proposed to be the source of the detrital materials comprising this clastic sequence. The results present additional information on the current understanding of the evolution of the Central Cordillera.
Electroless plating of copper on carbon fiber surfaces and corresponding mechanism
Authors: Wang Qing Hui , Li Xue Song
Published: July 2024

Traditional methods for surface pretreatment of carbon fibers often rely on the use of precious metals like palladium and silver as activators to enhance surface reactivity through redox reactions, achieving metallization. However, such approaches are costly and economically inefficient. This study employed a cost-effective copper (Cu)-nickel (Ni) colloid mixture as an activator and investigated its effectiveness in enhancing surface reactivity. Meanwhile, it examined the influence of various parameters, such as pH value, reducing agent (formaldehyde (HCHO) concentration, temperature, and deposition duration, on the morphology and structure of copper-electrodeposited carbon fibers. To characterize the treated samples, scanning electron microscope (SEM) and x-ray photoelectron spectrometer (XPS) were adopted, shedding light on the mechanism underlying copper electrodeposition on the carbon fiber surface. The results indicate that Cu-Ni colloid mixture activation exhibits significant improvements. The optimal conditions for uniform and smooth copper electrodeposition on the carbon fiber surface identified as follows: a pH value of 13.5, a HCHO concentration of 15 ml L−1, a temperature of 50 °C, and a deposition duration of 5 min. Consequently, these results represent a cost-effective alternative to traditional precious metal-based activation methods, with promising applications in surface pretreatment for carbon fibers.
Multi-modal flexible and inexpensive plasmonic metasurface for wide range of refractive index sensing
Authors: Biswas Vaswati , Vijaya R
Published: July 2024

A plasmonic metasurface containing nanobumps of sub-wavelength feature size arranged in a hexagonal pattern on a flexible substrate and covered with a thin film of gold is investigated as a refractive index (RI) sensor. The chosen polymer patterns coated with gold aid in activating the surface plasmon polariton modes. Using numerical calculations, it is shown that this surface can exhibit plasmonic effect with extremely shallow pattern height of 92.5 nm and minimal thickness of 25 nm of gold over it. The excitation of the plasmonic modes is confirmed using electric field profiles calculated at the relevant wavelengths. As the surface is highly sensitive to changes in the cladding index, and the chosen design aids in exciting three plasmon modes that are suitably well-separated in wavelength, this surface can be used for an extremely wide range of RI sensing because each mode contributes uniquely to a different range of RI. The results establish that the metasurface is suitable for a variety of applications, including gas detection with a sensitivity of 633 nm RIU−1 using mode-1, identifying SARS-CoV-2 viral molecules with a sensitivity of 428 nm RIU−1 using mode-2 and 238 nm RIU−1 using mode-3, and discriminating between normal and diseased brain tissues in the cerebrospinal fluid in the high-index range using mode-3. The prototype metasurface is made using a cost-effective soft lithography technique using an economical master mould. The inexpensive technique of fabrication, use of very thin metal film, and wavelength of detection lying within the visible to near infrared range imply a low-cost sensor. The structural and optical characterization of the prototype validates the numerical study of the sample.
When the Lord's House Closes
Authors: Delgado Melvin
Published: July 2024

The nation’s future rests on how well cities respond to demographic, ecological, economic, and political trends or challenges. These are not unique to the United States but are profoundly obvious in this country, especially in its inner cities. That includes buildings that have closed, churches and otherwise. Many forces can make church buildings redundant; religion is declining globally due to modernization, largely fed by secularization. Church closures are manifested differently in cities compared to their rural counterparts, with implications for how the nation views these closures and whether the political will can be mustered to address this trend. Regardless of their physical location, churches represent important social anchors, bringing together art, faith, and culture. They were developed with a specific set of reasons or a mission, one being to allow visitors to leave their world behind to enter a new world that provides solace, even if for a short period of time.
Anna Barbauld as a Philosopher of Art
Authors: Stone Alison
Published: July 2024

Anna Barbauld’s prose and poetic work spanned the period from the late Enlightenment into Romanticism, and this chapter adds to the contemporary recovery of Barbauld by rediscovering her as a philosopher of art. After a sketch of her life and work, the chapter looks at her early essays on the problem of why we enjoy the sufferings of fictional characters. Next, the chapter looks at Barbauld’s important essay on the devotional taste, in which she argues that all exercise of the imagination is religious, and reciprocally that religion has aesthetic feeling and imagination as two of its central components. Devotion also unites the beautiful and the sublime. Through her writing for children, Barbauld’s applied devotional aesthetic hugely influenced nineteenth-century culture. Finally, the chapter turns to her edition of The British Novelists, discussing her argument for the legitimacy of the novel as an art-form and her idea of canons as temporary, partial, and provisional constructions.
Associations of 10-year atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease risk scores with cerebral small vessel disease: the PolyvasculaR Evaluation for Cognitive Impairment and vaScular Events (PRECISE) study
Authors: Liu Dandan , Zhang Yanli , Cai Xueli , Yang Yingying , Wang Suying , Mei Lerong , Jing Jing , Li Shan , Wang Mengxing , Meng Xia , Wei Tiemin , Wang Yongjun , Wang Yilong , Pan Yuesong
Published: July 2024

Background

10-year atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) risk scores were useful for predicting large vessel disease, but the relationships between them and cerebral small vessel disease (CSVD) were unclear. Our study aimed to evaluate associations of 10-year ASCVD risk scores with CSVD and its magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) markers.

Methods

Community-dwelling residents from the PolyvasculaR Evaluation for Cognitive Impairment and vaScular Events study were included in this cross-sectional study. At baseline, we collected data related to the Framingham Risk Score (FRS), pooled cohort equation (PCE), prediction for ASCVD risk in China (China-PAR) and Systematic COronary Risk Evaluation model 2 (SCORE2), and classified participants into low, moderate and high groups. Participants underwent brain MRI scans. We evaluated white matter hyperintensity (WMH), lacunes, cerebral microbleeds (CMBs) and enlarged perivascular spaces in basal ganglia (BG-EPVS) according to criteria of Wardlaw and Rothwell, and calculated total CSVD score and modified total CSVD score.

Results

A total of 3063 participants were included, and 53.5% of them were female. A higher FRS was associated with higher total CSVD score (moderate vs. low: cOR 1.89, 95% CI 1.53–2.34; high vs. low: cOR 3.23, 95%CI 2.62–3.97), and the PCE, China-PAR or SCORE2 score was positively related to total CSVD score (P < 0.05). Moreover, higher 10-year ASCVD scores were associated with higher odds of WMH (P < 0.05), lacunes (P < 0.05), CMBs (P < 0.05) and BG-EPVS (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

The 10-year ASCVD scores were positively associated with CSVD and its MRI markers. These scores provided a method of risk stratification in the population with CSVD.
TEG® 6s coagulation testing with a novel heparin neutralization cartridge: Technical validation and determination of normal reference ranges
Authors: Hartmann Jan , Dias Joao , Shilo Alexandra , Bynagari Yamini , Garrett Brandon , Jeske Walter , Manukyan Zorayr , Mkhitaryan Karen , Adelmann Dieter , Subramaniam Kathirvel , Sakai Tetsuro
Published: July 2024

Objectives

We sought to establish normal reference ranges (NRRs) for a novel TEG 6s cartridge (TEG 6s Citrated: K, KH, RTH, FFH [Global Hemostasis]) (Haemonetics Corporation, Boston, MA, US).

Methods

Healthy volunteers (≥18 years of age) included in this single-arm study provided single samples of whole blood. Primary end points included TEG parameters in the citrated kaolin (CK), CK with heparinase (CKH), RapidTEG with heparinase (CRTH), and functional fibrinogen with heparinase (CFFH) assays.

Results

Evaluable data were contributed by 164 volunteers (48.8% female; 62% White/Caucasian). The following NRRs were established: CK maximum amplitude (MA), 51.0 to 67.6 mm; CKH-MA, 51.8 to 67.9 mm; CRTH-MA, 53.0 to 68.9 mm; CFFH-MA, 15.3 to 34.4 mm; CK reaction time, 5.0 to 9.1 minutes; CKH reaction time, 4.9 to 9.4 minutes; CKH lysis 30 minutes after MA, 0% to 3.2%. Duplicate measurements demonstrated high reproducibility. CFFH-MA correlated with Clauss fibrinogen concentration (Pearson correlation coefficient, 0.74). Laboratory-based studies demonstrated maintenance of the relationship between CFFH-MA and fibrinogen up to 1344 mg/dL (hyperfibrinogenemic samples) and acceptability of heparin neutralization up to concentrations of low molecular weight and unfractionated heparin of 1.3 IU/mL and 5 IU/mL, respectively.

Conclusions

This study established NRRs for the Global Hemostasis cartridge and serves as a proof of concept for the validity of results obtained using this cartridge.
Evaluation of parenteral diluent contamination by caprolactam
Authors: Curti Christophe , D’Huart Elise , Lamy Edouard , Primas Nicolas , Fersing Cyril , Bornet Charleric , Martin Nathalie , Pourroy Bertrand , Vanelle Patrice
Published: July 2024

Purpose

A leachable cyclic amide (caprolactam) can be found in normal saline (NS) and 5% dextrose in water (D5W) plastic bags widely used in clinical practice if they contain polyamide in a multilayer sheeting. This contamination and the parameters that could influence its content have never been studied in a public work such as a scientific publication.

Methods

Two independent laboratories validated a caprolactam dosing method and studied contamination levels in several containers.

Results

Caprolactam content in multilayer polypropylene/polyamide/polypropylene plastic bags ranged from a mean (SD) of 5.43 (0.21) mg/L (D5W 1,000 mL) to 22.83 (1.26) mg/L (NS 50 mL). NS and D5W can be intravenously administered with a total daily dose of 3 L, corresponding to a minimal daily dose of 16.3 mg of caprolactam.

Conclusion

The high levels of contamination we have reported and the possibility of administering caprolactam to high-risk patients (eg, neonates, the elderly) should make it imperative for pharmaceutical companies to communicate publicly on the safety of caprolactam.
No evidence of adaptive tolerance of parasitism in a cavity-nesting brood parasite host
Authors: Peer Brian D
Published: July 2024

Acceptance of avian brood parasitism by hosts is one of the most enigmatic aspects of brood parasite–host coevolution. The most common explanation for acceptance of parasitism by hosts of the brown-headed cowbird (Molothrus ater) is evolutionary lag, which suggests that hosts have not had enough time to evolve defenses against parasitism. Alternatively, acceptance may be the optimal strategy when the costs of rejecting parasitism exceed the benefits. The lack of nest site hypothesis applies to secondary cavity-nesting birds that cannot excavate their own nests and predicts that hosts accept parasitism instead of deserting a parasitized nest when there are no vacant nest sites available in which to renest. I tested this hypothesis using the prothonotary warbler (Pronotaria citrea), a commonly parasitized, cavity-nesting cowbird host. I used a paired nest box design and predicted that if hosts accept parasitism because of a lack of alternative nest sites, they should desert parasitized nests and renest in the vacant nest box on their territory. I recorded 37 cases where a nest was parasitized and warblers only deserted 2 parasitized nest boxes for a vacant nest box. Both desertions were attributable to factors other than parasitism and the rate of desertion did not differ from controls that only had a single nest box. Moreover, 7 of the warblers initiated clutches in nest boxes that already contained cowbird egg despite having vacant nest boxes available on their territories. These results indicate that warblers do not accept parasitism because of tolerance, but likely due to evolutionary lag.
HDXBoxeR: an R package for statistical analysis and visualization of multiple Hydrogen–Deuterium Exchange Mass-Spectrometry datasets of different protein states
Authors: Janowska Maria K , Reiter Katherine , Magala Pearl , Guttman Miklos , Klevit Rachel E
Published: July 2024

Hydrogen–Deuterium Exchange Mass Spectrometry (HDX-MS) is a powerful protein characterization technique that provides insights into protein dynamics and flexibility at the peptide level. However, analyzing HDX-MS data presents a significant challenge due to the wealth of information it generates. Each experiment produces data for hundreds of peptides, often measured in triplicate across multiple time points. Comparisons between different protein states create distinct datasets containing thousands of peptides that require matching, rigorous statistical evaluation, and visualization. Our open-source R package, HDXBoxeR, is a comprehensive tool designed to facilitate statistical analysis and comparison of multiple sets among samples and time points for different protein states, along with data visualization.

Availability and implementation

HDXBoxeR is accessible as the R package (https://cran.r-project.org/web//packages/HDXBoxeR) and GitHub: mkajano/HDXBoxeR.
Simple protocol for combined extraction of exocrine secretions and RNA in small arthropods
Authors: Fröhlich David , Bodner Michaela , Raspotnig Günther , Hahn Christoph
Published: July 2024

The integration of data from multiple sources and analytical techniques to obtain novel insights and answer challenging questions is a hallmark of modern science. In arthropods, exocrine secretions may act as pheromones, defensive substances, antibiotics, as well as surface protectants, and as such they play a crucial role in ecology and evolution. Exocrine chemical compounds are frequently characterized by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. Technological advances of recent years now allow us to routinely characterize the total gene complement transcribed in a particular biological tissue, often in the context of experimental treatment, via RNAseq. We here introduce a novel methodological approach to successfully characterize exocrine secretions and full transcriptomes of one and the same individual of oribatid mites. We found that chemical extraction prior to RNA extraction had only minor effects on the total RNA integrity. De novo transcriptomes obtained from such combined extractions were of comparable quality to those assembled for samples that were subject to RNA extraction only, indicating that combined chemical/RNA extraction is perfectly suitable for phylotranscriptomic studies. However, in-depth analysis of RNA expression analysis indicates that chemical extraction prior to RNAseq may affect transcript degradation rates, similar to the effects reported in previous studies comparing RNA extraction protocols. With this pilot study, we demonstrate that profiling chemical secretions and RNA expression levels from the same individual is methodologically feasible, paving the way for future research to understand the genes and pathways underlying the syntheses of biogenic chemical compounds. Our approach should be applicable broadly to most arachnids, insects, and other arthropods.
Estimating causal effects for binary outcomes using per-decision inverse probability weighting
Authors: Bao Yihan , Bell Lauren , Williamson Elizabeth , Garnett Claire , Qian Tianchen
Published: July 2024

Micro-randomized trials are commonly conducted for optimizing mobile health interventions such as push notifications for behavior change. In analyzing such trials, causal excursion effects are often of primary interest, and their estimation typically involves inverse probability weighting (IPW). However, in a micro-randomized trial, additional treatments can often occur during the time window over which an outcome is defined, and this can greatly inflate the variance of the causal effect estimator because IPW would involve a product of numerous weights. To reduce variance and improve estimation efficiency, we propose two new estimators using a modified version of IPW, which we call “per-decision IPW.” The second estimator further improves efficiency using the projection idea from the semiparametric efficiency theory. These estimators are applicable when the outcome is binary and can be expressed as the maximum of a series of sub-outcomes defined over sub-intervals of time. We establish the estimators’ consistency and asymptotic normality. Through simulation studies and real data applications, we demonstrate substantial efficiency improvement of the proposed estimator over existing estimators. The new estimators can be used to improve the precision of primary and secondary analyses for micro-randomized trials with binary outcomes.
Multiparameter cortical surface morphology in former amateur contact sport athletes
Authors: Recht Grace , Hou Jiancheng , Buddenbaum Claire , Cheng Hu , Newman Sharlene D , Saykin Andrew J , Kawata Keisuke
Published: July 2024

The lifetime effects of repetitive head impacts have captured considerable public and scientific interest over the past decade, yet a knowledge gap persists in our understanding of midlife neurological well-being, particularly in amateur level athletes. This study aimed to identify the effects of lifetime exposure to sports-related head impacts on brain morphology in retired, amateur athletes. This cross-sectional study comprised of 37 former amateur contact sports athletes and 21 age- and sex-matched noncontact athletes. High-resolution anatomical, T1 scans were analyzed for the cortical morphology, including cortical thickness, sulcal depth, and sulcal curvature, and cognitive function was assessed using the Dementia Rating Scale-2. Despite no group differences in cognitive functions, the contact group exhibited significant cortical thinning particularly in the bilateral frontotemporal regions and medial brain regions, such as the cingulate cortex and precuneus, compared to the noncontact group. Deepened sulcal depth and increased sulcal curvature across all four lobes of the brain were also notable in the contact group. These data suggest that brain morphology of middle-aged former amateur contact athletes differs from that of noncontact athletes and that lifetime exposure to repetitive head impacts may be associated with neuroanatomical changes.
Two case reports of coronary spastic angina accompanied by the menstrual cycle
Authors: Aoyama Rie , Sudo Hironao , Okino Shinichi , Fukuzawa Shigeru
Published: July 2024

Background

Coronary spastic angina (CSA) in premenopausal women is not frequent but has also been suggested to be associated with oestrogen decline during the menstrual cycle and sometimes becomes refractory and difficult to control. We experienced two premenopausal women with CSA that showed the involvement of the menstrual cycle.

Case summary

Case 1: 41-year-old-woman had ST-segment elevation and chest pain during urosepsis, just 2 days after the onset of menstruation. The acetylcholine stress test was performed according to the menstrual cycle, and multiple coronary spasms were induced. Case 2: 40-year-old-woman had refractory chest pain as a symptom of premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Coronary angiography on drugs at the maximum dose revealed spontaneous multiple coronary spasms. Blood levels of oestrogen were normal, suggesting that hormonal change may be involved, and the introduction of low-dose pills made free from angina and the reduction of drug dose.

Discussion

In premenopausal female angina pectoris, oestrogen may play a role; it is important to ask about the menstrual cycle and history of PMS. Besides, the timing of catheterization in premenopausal women with suspected CSA should be considered. Low-dose pills may be effective in some cases, and active medical collaboration with other departments such as gynaecology is desirable.
Impact of COVID-19 on Drug Positivity Rates in the Emergency Departments in Boston and Surrounding Areas
Authors: Tolan Nicole V , Kang Phillip , Chai Peter R , Erickson Timothy B , Hayes Bryan D , Uljon Sacha N , Demetriou Christiana A , Melanson Stacy E F
Published: July 2024

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic reportedly had a significant impact on drug and alcohol use. In this article, we determine positivity rates for urine drugs of abuse and blood alcohol in 5 emergency departments (ED) in the greater Boston metropolitan area over a 4-year period (pre-, during, and post-COVID-19 pandemic).

Methods

Positivity rates for the urine drug screening (UDS) panel and blood alcohol concentration (>80 mg/dL; over the legal limit in MA) were calculated in patients presenting to one of the 5 ED (2 academic hospitals in Boston, MA and 3 community hospitals outside Boston, MA) during each of the 4 different time periods: pre-COVID (January 1, 2019 to December 31, 2019), stay-at-home (March 24, 2020 to May 18, 2020), during COVID (May 19, 2020 to March 28, 2021), and post-COVID (May 12, 2023 to August 31, 2023). Trend analysis was performed. Additionally, positivity rates during and post-COVID were compared to pre-COVID to determine any significant changes in drug positivity.

Results

Stimulant (amphetamines and cocaine), cannabinoid, and methadone positivity increased during the pandemic and cocaine, cannabinoid, and methadone positivity remains elevated. By contrast, benzodiazepine and opioid (opiates, fentanyl, oxycodone) positivity decreased and remains lower post-COVID compared to pre-COVID. Patients in the ED with blood alcohol over the legal limit decreased both during and post-COVID.

Conclusion

Our study showed that the COVID-19 pandemic significantly affected drug and alcohol positivity rates in patients presenting to the ED in greater Boston area. We encourage other institutions to perform similar analyses to help determine local drug use patterns and appropriate composition of UDS panels.
Impact of overhead evaporative cooling, canopy location, sunlight exposure, inoculation level, region, and growing season on the survival of generic Escherichia coli on in-field Fuji apples
Authors: Murphy Claire M , Mendoza Manoella , Walter Lauren , Jeong Kyu Ho , Liao Andy , Green Tonia , Killinger Karen , Hanrahan Ines , Zhu Mei-Jun
Published: July 2024

Aims

The survival of inoculated Escherichia coli on Fuji apples in Washington State orchards was studied, considering evaporative cooling, canopy location, year, and region, with the examination of sunlight exposure and inoculation levels in year 2.

Methods and results

Rifampicin-resistant E. coli was applied to Fuji apples. Initial concentrations for the high-inoculation study were 7.4 ± 0.3 log10 CFU per apple and 3.4 ± 0.3 log10 CFU per apple for the low-inoculation study. Enumeration of E. coli was conducted at 0, 2, 10, 18, 34, 42, 58, 82, 106, and 154 h after inoculation. Results were analyzed using Tukey’s honest significance difference test and a log-linear model. Log-linear, Weibull, and biphasic models characterized E. coli die-off patterns for high and low inoculations. The application of evaporative overhead cooling water did not significantly influence E. coli survival on Fuji apples; inoculation level and sunlight exposure were significant factors in a log-linear model. Escherichia coli decreased by 5.5 ± 1.3 and 3.3 ± 0.4 log10 CFU per apple for high and low-inoculated apples, respectively, by 154 h. The biphasic model best explained the die-off pattern for high and low-inoculated Fuji apples.

Conclusions

Overhead evaporative cooling, a useful fruit quality practice, did not impact the survival of generic E. coli on Fuji apple surfaces. The significant impact of sunlight exposure and inoculation levels on die-off highlights the importance of ultraviolet radiation in risk reduction and the need for various inoculum concentrations in preharvest field studies
Adapting arepo-rt for exascale computing: GPU acceleration and efficient communication
Authors: Zier Oliver , Kannan Rahul , Smith Aaron , Vogelsberger Mark , Verbeek Erkin
Published: July 2024

Radiative transfer (RT) is a crucial ingredient for self-consistent modelling of numerous astrophysical phenomena across cosmic history. However, on-the-fly integration into radiation hydrodynamics (RHD) simulations is computationally demanding, particularly due to the stringent time-stepping conditions and increased dimensionality inherent in multifrequency collisionless Boltzmann physics. The emergence of exascale supercomputers, equipped with extensive CPU cores and GPU accelerators, offers new opportunities for enhancing RHD simulations. We present the first steps towards optimizing arepo-rt for such high-performance computing environments. We implement a novel node-to-node (n-to-n) communication strategy that utilizes shared memory to substitute intranode communication with direct memory access. Furthermore, combining multiple internode messages into a single message substantially enhances network bandwidth utilization and performance for large-scale simulations on modern supercomputers. The single-message n-to-n approach also improves performance on smaller scale machines with less optimized networks. Furthermore, by transitioning all RT-related calculations to GPUs, we achieve a significant computational speedup of around 15 for standard benchmarks compared to the original CPU implementation. As a case study, we perform cosmological RHD simulations of the Epoch of Reionization, employing a similar setup as the THESAN project. In this context, RT becomes sub-dominant such that even without modifying the core arepo codebase, there is an overall threefold improvement in efficiency. The advancements presented here have broad implications, potentially transforming the complexity and scalability of future simulations for a wide variety of astrophysical studies. Our work serves as a blueprint for porting similar simulation codes based on unstructured resolution elements to GPU-centric architectures.
ASKAP reveals the radio tail structure of the Corkscrew Galaxy shaped by its passage through the Abell 3627 cluster
Authors: Koribalski Bärbel S , Duchesne Stefan W , Lenc Emil , Venturi Tiziana , Botteon Andrea , Shabala Stanislav S , Vernstrom Tessa , Carretti Ettore , Norris Ray P , Anderson Craig , Hopkins Andrew M , Riseley C J , Gupta Nikhel , Velović Velibor
Published: July 2024

Among the bent-tail radio galaxies common in galaxy clusters are some with long, collimated tails (so-called head-tail galaxies) shaped by their interactions with the intracluster medium (ICM). Here, we report the discovery of intricate filamentary structure in and beyond the ∼28 arcmin (570 kpc) long, helical radio tail of the Corkscrew Galaxy (1610–60.5, ESO 137-G007), which resides in the X-ray bright cluster Abell 3627 (D = 70 Mpc). Deep radio continuum data were obtained with wide-field phased array feeds on the Australian Square Kilometer Array Pathfinder (ASKAP) at 944 MHz and 1.4 GHz. While the bright (young) part of the Corkscrew Galaxy tail is highly collimated, the faint (old) part shows increasing oscillation amplitudes, break-ups, and filaments. We find a stunning set of arc-shaped radio filaments beyond and mostly orthogonal to the collimated Corkscrew tail end, forming a partial bubble. This may be the first detection of a ‘proto-lobe’ previously seen in 3D MHD simulations, formed by the face-on impact of the Corkscrew Galaxy with a shock front in the cluster outskirts. Interactions of the radio galaxy tail with the ICM are likely responsible for the tail collimation and shear forces within the ICM for its increasingly filamentary structure. We also report the discovery of small (∼20–30 kpc) ram-pressure stripped radio tails in four Abell 3627 cluster galaxies, located between the Corkscrew Galaxy and its prominent neighbour, the wide-angle tail (WAT) radio galaxy 1610–60.8 (ESO 137-G006).
High ionic strength vector formulations enhance gene transfer to airway epithelia
Authors: Cooney Ashley L , Loza Laura Marquez , Najdawi Kenan , Brommel Christian M , McCray Paul B , Sinn Patrick L
Published: July 2024

A fundamental challenge for cystic fibrosis (CF) gene therapy is ensuring sufficient transduction of airway epithelia to achieve therapeutic correction. Hypertonic saline (HTS) is frequently administered to people with CF to enhance mucus clearance. HTS transiently disrupts epithelial cell tight junctions, but its ability to improve gene transfer has not been investigated. Here, we asked if increasing the concentration of NaCl enhances the transduction efficiency of three gene therapy vectors: adenovirus, AAV, and lentiviral vectors. Vectors formulated with 3–7% NaCl exhibited markedly increased transduction for all three platforms, leading to anion channel correction in primary cultures of human CF epithelial cells and enhanced gene transfer in mouse and pig airways in vivo. The mechanism of transduction enhancement involved tonicity but not osmolarity or pH. Formulating vectors with a high ionic strength solution is a simple strategy to greatly enhance efficacy and immediately improve preclinical or clinical applications.
Unraveling the structure and function of a novel SegC protein interacting with the SegAB chromosome segregation complex in Archaea
Authors: Lin Min-Guan , Yen Cheng-Yi , Shen Yo-You , Huang Yu-Sung , Ng Irene W , Barillà Daniela , Sun Yuh-Ju , Hsiao Chwan-Deng
Published: July 2024

Genome segregation is a fundamental process that preserves the genetic integrity of all organisms, but the mechanisms driving genome segregation in archaea remain enigmatic. This study delved into the unknown function of SegC (SSO0033), a novel protein thought to be involved in chromosome segregation in archaea. Using fluorescence polarization DNA binding assays, we discovered the ability of SegC to bind DNA without any sequence preference. Furthermore, we determined the crystal structure of SegC at 2.8 Å resolution, revealing the multimeric configuration and forming a large positively charged surface that can bind DNA. SegC has a tertiary structure folding similar to those of the ThDP-binding fold superfamily, but SegC shares only 5–15% sequence identity with those proteins. Unexpectedly, we found that SegC has nucleotide triphosphatase (NTPase) activity. We also determined the SegC-ADP complex structure, identifying the NTP binding pocket and relative SegC residues involved in the interaction. Interestingly, images from negative-stain electron microscopy revealed that SegC forms filamentous structures in the presence of DNA and NTPs. Further, more uniform and larger SegC-filaments are observed, when SegA-ATP was added. Notably, the introduction of SegB disrupts these oligomers, with ATP being essential for regulating filament formation. These findings provide insights into the functional and structural role of SegC in archaeal chromosome segregation.
Related type 2C protein phosphatases Pic3 and Pic12 negatively regulate immunity in tomato to Pseudomonas syringae
Authors: Xia Fan , Zhang Ning , Smith Renee E , Chakraborty Joydeep , Sobol Guy , Tang Xuemei , Fei Zhangjun , Sessa Guido , Martin Gregory B
Published: July 2024

Type 2C protein phosphatases (PP2Cs) constitute a large family in most plant species, but relatively few of them have been implicated in immunity. To identify and characterize PP2C phosphatases that affect tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) immunity, we generated loss-of-function mutations in 11 PP2C-encoding genes whose expression is altered in response to immune elicitors or pathogens. We report that 2 closely related PP2C phosphatases, PP2C immunity-associated candidate 3 (Pic3) and Pic12, are involved in regulating resistance to the bacterial pathogen Pseudomonas syringae pv. tomato (Pst). Loss-of-function mutations in Pic3 led to enhanced resistance to Pst in older but not younger leaves, whereas such mutations in Pic12 resulted in enhanced resistance in both older and younger leaves. Overexpression of Pic3 and Pic12 proteins in leaves of Nicotiana benthamiana inhibited resistance to Pst, and this effect was dependent on Pic3/12 phosphatase activity and an N-terminal palmitoylation motif associated with localization to the cell periphery. Pic3, but not Pic12, had a slight negative effect on flagellin-associated reactive oxygen species generation, although their involvement in the response to Pst appeared independent of flagellin. RNA-sequencing analysis of Rio Grande (RG)-PtoR wild-type plants and 2 independent RG-pic3 mutants revealed that the enhanced disease resistance in RG-pic3 older leaves is associated with increased transcript abundance of multiple defense-related genes. RG-pic3/RG-pic12 double-mutant plants exhibited stronger disease resistance than RG-pic3 or RG-pic12 single mutants. Together, our results reveal that Pic3 and Pic12 negatively regulate tomato immunity in an additive manner through flagellin-independent pathways.
Engineered skin microbiome reduces mosquito attraction to mice
Authors: Liu Feng , Coutinho-Abreu Iliano V , Raban Robyn , Nguyen Tam Thuy Dan , Dimas Alejandra R , Merriman Joseph A , Akbari Omar S
Published: July 2024

The skin microbiome plays a pivotal role in the production of attractive cues detected by mosquitoes. Here, we leveraged recent advances in genetic engineering to significantly reduce the production of L-(+)-lactic acid as a strategy to reduce mosquito attraction to the highly prominent skin commensals Staphylococcus epidermidis and Corynebacterium amycolatum. Engraftment of these engineered bacteria onto the skin of mice reduced mosquito attraction and feeding for up to 11 uninterrupted days, which is considerably longer than the several hours of protection conferred by the leading chemical repellent N,N-diethyl-meta-toluamide. Taken together, our findings demonstrate engineering the skin microbiome to reduce attractive volatiles represents an innovative untapped strategy to reduce vector attraction, preventing bites, and pathogen transmission. These findings set the stage for new classes of long-lasting microbiome-based repellent products.
Commensal microbiome dysbiosis elicits interleukin-8 signaling to drive fibrotic skin disease
Authors: Zhang Wenyu , Peng Qili , Huang Xian , Huang Qing , Zhang Zhiliang , Li Fuli , Zheng Naisheng , Shi Binsheng , Fan Zhihong , Maj Tomasz , Chen Rui
Published: July 2024

Wound healing is an intensely studied topic involved in many relevant pathophysiological processes, including fibrosis. Despite the large interest in fibrosis, the network that is related to commensal microbiota and skin fibrosis remains mysterious. Here, we pay attention to keloid, a classical yet intractable skin fibrotic disease to establish the association between commensal microbiota to scaring tissue. Our histological data reveal the presence of microbiota in the keloids. 16S rRNA sequencing characterizes microbial composition and divergence between the pathological and normal skin tissues. Moreover, the data show elevation of interleukin-8 (IL-8) in both the circulation and keloid tissue, which elicited the collagen accumulation and migratory program of dermal fibroblasts via CXCR1/2 receptor. Our research provides insights into the pathology of human fibrotic diseases, advocating commensal bacteria and IL-8 signaling as useful targets in future interventions of recurrent keloid disease.
Interaction between alimentary surgery and risk of dementia: a nationwide population-based case–control study
Authors: Tseng Chu-Chiao , Chen Ssu-Yu , Lin Ting-An , Chang Renin , Yip Hei-Tung , Hung Yao-Min
Published: July 2024

Background

Based on current research, it is known that the gastrointestinal tract microbiota and its genome play a crucial role in mental illnesses. Studies indicate a direct correlation between gastrointestinal tract microbiota and the onset of dementia, mediated by metabolic diseases and low-grade inflammation. The association between various gastrointestinal symptoms and neurodegenerative diseases has been recently discussed. However, there is a lack of research regarding the comparative effects of different surgical procedures on neurodegenerative diseases. Therefore, this study primarily focuses on comparing the association between various gastrointestinal surgeries and dementia, aiming to provide guidance for future clinical practice.

Method

A nationwide study using the Taiwanese National Health Insurance Research Database included 26 059 patients diagnosed with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease and 104 236 controls without diseases. Primary exposures were defined as alimentary surgeries, encompassing cholecystectomy, gastrectomy, bowel resection, and appendectomy. Conditional logistic regression was used to examine the odds ratio and 95% confidence interval for prior alimentary surgery between cases and controls.

Results

The results showed that individuals with dementia had a higher rate of gastrectomy. Additionally, individuals with dementia seemed to exhibit a reduced rate of cholecystectomy and appendectomy. Regarding Alzheimer’s disease, all four alimentary surgeries showed comparable trends to those observed with dementia. No significant interaction was observed between alimentary surgery and dementia among the four types of surgery evaluated.

Conclusion

Our study demonstrates that gastrectomy is associated with an elevated risk of dementia. We aim to uncover more direct evidence in future experiments.
The prognostic role of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol/C-reactive protein ratio in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis
Authors: Ouyang X , Qian Y , Tan Y , Shen Q , Zhang Q , Song M , Shi J , Peng H
Published: July 2024

Background

The prognosis of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) patients is highly heterogeneous. Abnormalities in lipids and their metabolism play an important role in the development of IPF.

Aim

To investigate the value of lipid parameters, C-reactive protein (CRP) and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol/C-reactive protein (HDL-C/CRP) ratio levels in the prognosis of IPF patients.

Design

An observational cohort study.

Methods

We collected baseline data of non-IPF controls and IPF patients, and IPF patients were followed up for 4 years. All-cause death or lung transplantation and IPF-related death were the outcome events. Receiver operating characteristic curves and Cox proportional hazards models were used to analyze the predictive effect of lipid parameters, CRP and HDL-C/CRP ratio on the prognosis of IPF patients.

Results

IPF patients had lower HDL-C, HDL-C/CRP ratio and higher CRP compared to non-IPF controls. IPF patients who died or underwent lung transplantation were older and had worse pulmonary function, lower HDL-C, HDL-C/CRP ratio and higher CRP compared with surviving patients. HDL-C/CRP ratio was better than HDL-C and CRP in predicting all-cause death or lung transplantation. IPF patients with low HDL-C/CRP ratio had shorter survival times. The HDL-C/CRP ratio and diffusing capacity for carbon monoxide(DLCO)% of predicted were independent protective factors for all-cause death or lung transplantation and IPF-related death in IPF patients, while age and gender-age-physiology (GAP) Stage ≥ 2 (HR = 4.927) were independent risk factors for all-cause death or lung transplantation. Age > 65 years (HR = 3.533) was an independent risk factor for IPF-related death.

Conclusion

HDL-C/CRP ratio was a valid predictor of clinical outcomes in IPF patients, including all-cause death or lung transplantation and IPF-related death.
Evidence-based use of epinephrine in anaphylaxis
Authors: Hammond Catherine , Lieberman Jay Adam
Published: July 2024

Purpose of review

Epinephrine is the first line treatment for anaphylaxis, however, there are limited data to support this. This review examines data surrounding evidence for the use of epinephrine in anaphylaxis, data on prescription for and use of epinephrine autoinjectors, and data examining newer routes of delivery of epinephrine; with a focus on recent publications over the past few years.

Recent findings

With recent epidemiologic studies of anaphylaxis and new forms of epinephrine being studied, new data on the effects of epinephrine are aiding in the understanding of epinephrine's effects and the shortcomings of epinephrine both in its effect and utility in the real world.

Epinephrine is still considered the first line therapy for anaphylaxis, and we are starting to have a better understanding of its effects in both healthy patients and those with anaphylaxis.
Novel therapeutic receptor agonists and antagonists in allergic conjunctivitis
Authors: Abu Sampson L. , Hehar Navpreet K. , Chigbu DeGaulle I.
Published: July 2024

Purpose of review

Allergic conjunctivitis is characterized by the development of pathophysiological changes to the ocular surface, which occurs when pro-allergic and pro-inflammatory mediators interact with their cognate receptors expressed on immune and nonimmune cells. Traditional treatments with antihistamines and corticosteroids provide relief, but there is a need for more efficacious and tolerable long-term therapy with a better safety profile. This article aims to provide an overview of the mode of action and clinical application of agonist therapies targeting glucocorticoid, melanocortin, and toll-like receptors, as well as antagonist therapies targeting cytokine, chemokine, integrin, and histamine receptors.

Recent findings

There has been considerable advancement in immunology and pharmacology, as well as a greater understanding of the cellular and molecular mechanisms of allergic conjunctivitis. Recent research advancing therapy for allergic conjunctivitis has focused on developing synthetic molecules and biologics that can interfere with the process of the allergic immune reaction.

This review discusses novel therapeutic receptors being explored agonistically or antagonistically to develop alternative treatment options for allergic conjunctivitis. These novel approaches hold promise for improving the management of allergic eye diseases, offering patients hope for more effective and safer treatment options in the future.
Artificial intelligence and machine learning for anaphylaxis algorithms
Authors: Miller Christopher , Manious Michelle , Portnoy Jay
Published: July 2024

Purpose of review

Anaphylaxis is a severe, potentially life-threatening allergic reaction that requires rapid identification and intervention. Current management includes early recognition, prompt administration of epinephrine, and immediate medical attention. However, challenges remain in accurate diagnosis, timely treatment, and personalized care. This article reviews the integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning in enhancing anaphylaxis management.

Recent findings

Artificial intelligence and machine learning can analyze vast datasets to identify patterns and predict anaphylactic episodes, improve diagnostic accuracy through image and biomarker analysis, and personalize treatment plans. Artificial intelligence-powered wearable devices and decision support systems can facilitate real-time monitoring and early intervention. The ethical considerations of artificial intelligence use, including data privacy, transparency, and bias mitigation, are also discussed.

Future directions include the development of predictive models, enhanced diagnostic tools, and artificial intelligence-driven educational resources. By leveraging artificial intelligence and machine learning, healthcare providers can improve the management of anaphylaxis, ensuring better patient outcomes and advancing personalized medicine.
The evolution of cyclosporine treatments for treatment of ocular surface diseases
Authors: Flts Anna , Medina Richard , Akpek Esen K.
Published: July 2024

Purpose of review

Cyclosporine is a versatile immunomodulatory drug commonly employed in modern medicine. Although cyclosporine was initially used to prevent solid organ transplant rejection, its indications have extended to treat many inflammatory or autoimmune diseases. Cyclosporin is available for use in oral, intravenous, and topical forms, including eye drops to treat corneal and ocular surface conditions. It is naturally advantageous to administer cyclosporin directly into the eye, avoiding potential and dose limiting systemic adverse effects. However, the transition from systemic to topical administration has been a challenging one. This report reviews the evolution of ophthalmic cyclosporine treatment and explores its clinical impacts and future research directions.

Recent findings

Latest advancements in formulations – from oil-based solutions to nanomicelle and gel systems and waterless formulations – have improved the therapeutic efficacy and tolerability of topically applied cyclosporine, demonstrating greater effectiveness in treating ocular surface parameters compared to oil-based solution.

Cyclosporine continues to be a safe and effective immunomodulatory drug in the field of ophthalmology to treat various chronic inflammatory ocular surface diseases and dry eye. Currently, there are several commercially available topical preparations available for ophthalmic use each with unique formulation and clinical outcomes.