bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diatom adhesive trail proteins acquired by horizontal gene transfer from bacteria serve as primers for marine biofilm formation
Authors: Zackova Suchanova Jirina , Bilcke Gust , Romanowska Beata , Fatlawi Ali , Pippel Martin , Skeffington Alastair , Schroeder Michael , Vyverman Wim , Vandepoele Klaas , Kröger Nils , Poulsen Nicole
Published: August 2023

Biofilm‐forming benthic diatoms are key primary producers in coastal habitats, where they frequently dominate sunlit intertidal substrata. The development of gliding motility in raphid diatoms was a key molecular adaptation that contributed to their evolutionary success. However, the structure–function correlation between diatom adhesives utilized for gliding and their relationship to the extracellular matrix that constitutes the diatom biofilm is unknown.

Here, we have used proteomics, immunolocalization, comparative genomics, phylogenetics and structural homology analysis to investigate the evolutionary history and function of diatom adhesive proteins.

Our study identified eight proteins from the adhesive trails of Craspedostauros australis, of which four form a new protein family called Trailins that contain an enigmatic Choice‐of‐Anchor A (CAA) domain, which was acquired through horizontal gene transfer from bacteria. Notably, the CAA‐domain shares a striking structural similarity with one of the most widespread domains found in ice‐binding proteins (IPR021884).

Our work offers new insights into the molecular basis for diatom biofilm formation, shedding light on the function and evolution of diatom adhesive proteins. This discovery suggests that there is a transition in the composition of biomolecules required for initial surface colonization and those utilized for 3D biofilm matrix formation.
Enzyme‐based kinetic modelling of ASC–GSH cycle during tomato fruit development reveals the importance of reducing power and ROS availability
Authors: Decros Guillaume , Dussarrat Thomas , Baldet Pierre , Cassan Cédric , Cabasson Cécile , Dieuaide‐Noubhani Martine , Destailleur Alice , Flandin Amélie , Prigent Sylvain , Mori Kentaro , Colombié Sophie , Jorly Joana , Gibon Yves , Beauvoit Bertrand , Pétriacq Pierre
Published: August 2023

The ascorbate–glutathione (ASC–GSH) cycle is at the heart of redox metabolism, linking the major redox buffers with central metabolism through the processing of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and pyridine nucleotide metabolism. Tomato fruit development is underpinned by changes in redox buffer contents and their associated enzyme capacities, but interactions between them remain unclear.

Based on quantitative data obtained for the core redox metabolism, we built an enzyme‐based kinetic model to calculate redox metabolite concentrations with their corresponding fluxes and control coefficients.

Dynamic and associated regulations of the ASC–GSH cycle throughout the whole fruit development were analysed and pointed to a sequential metabolic control of redox fluxes by ASC synthesis, NAD(P)H and ROS availability depending on the developmental phase. Furthermore, we highlighted that monodehydroascorbate reductase and the availability of reducing power were found to be the main regulators of the redox state of ASC and GSH during fruit growth under optimal conditions.

Our kinetic modelling approach indicated that tomato fruit development displayed growth phase‐dependent redox metabolism linked with central metabolism via pyridine nucleotides and H2O2 availability, while providing a new tool to the scientific community to investigate redox metabolism in fruits.
TRIMETHYLGUANOSINE SYNTHASE1 mutations decanalize female germline development in Arabidopsis
Authors: Siena Lorena A. , Michaud Caroline , Selles Benjamin , Vega Juan Manuel , Pessino Silvina C. , Ingouff Mathieu , Ortiz Juan Pablo A. , Leblanc Olivier
Published: August 2023

Here, we report the characterization of a plant RNA methyltransferase, orthologous to yeast trimethylguanosine synthase1 (Tgs1p) and whose downregulation was associated with apomixis in Paspalum grasses.

Using phylogenetic analyses and yeast complementation, we determined that land plant genomes all encode a conserved, specific TGS1 protein. Next, we studied the role of TGS1 in female reproduction using reporter lines and loss‐of‐function mutants in Arabidopsis thaliana.

pAtTGS1:AtTGS1 reporters showed a dynamic expression pattern. They were highly active in the placenta and ovule primordia at emergence but, subsequently, showed weak signals in the nucellus. Although expressed throughout gametophyte development, activity became restricted to the female gamete and was also detected after fertilization during embryogenesis. TGS1 depletion altered the specification of the precursor cells that give rise to the female gametophytic generation and to the sporophyte, resulting in the formation of a functional aposporous‐like lineage.

Our results indicate that TGS1 participates in the mechanisms restricting cell fate acquisition to a single cell at critical transitions throughout the female reproductive lineage and, thus, expand our current knowledge of the mechanisms governing female reproductive fate in plants.
Can dietary proteins selectively reduce either the visceral or subcutaneous adipose tissues?
Authors: Nilaweera Kanishka N. , Cotter Paul D.
Published: August 2023

There is a considerable appeal for interventions that can selectively reduce either the visceral or subcutaneous white adipose tissues in humans and other species because of their associated impact on outcomes related to metabolic health. Here, we reviewed the data related to the specificity of five interventions to affect the two depots in humans and rodents. The interventions relate to the use of dietary proteins, monounsaturated fatty acids, polyunsaturated fatty acids, calorie restriction, or bariatric surgery. The available data show that calorie restriction and bariatric surgery reduce both visceral and subcutaneous tissues, whereas there is no consistency in the effect of monounsaturated or polyunsaturated fatty acids. Dietary proteins, more specifically, whey proteins show efficacy to reduce one or both depots based on how the proteins interact with other macronutrients in the diet. We provide evidence that this specificity is related to changes in the composition and the functional potential of the gut microbiota and the resulting metabolites produced by these microorganisms. The effect of the sex of the host is also discussed. This knowledge may help to develop nutritional approaches to deplete either the visceral or subcutaneous adipose tissues and improve metabolic health in humans and other species.
Eugenic appropriations of the goddess Isis: Reproduction and racial superiority in theosophical feminist writings
Authors: Albrecht Jessica A.
Published: August 2023

The goddess Isis continues to be an influential figure for the notion of the Divine Feminine in contemporary esoteric and popular thought. However, looking back into the history of modern esotericism, the image of the goddess Isis has been used by Theosophists such as Florence Farr and Frances Swiney to argue for their feminist and more importantly eugenic interpretations of the power of that goddess. This article examines the writings of these two Theosophists together to highlight the eugenics aspects of their vision of Isis as the perfect mother and the superwoman. Through this, Isis became a symbol for a specific gendered aspect of religious eugenics by changing the meaning of the Divine Feminine. This is one of the roots of contemporary Isis interpretations leading to a prevalent idea of fertility and the gendered divine.
Professor Andreas Graner: driven by the quest to unlock crop plant genomes for conservation and utilization of germplasm for breeding
Authors: Varshney Rajeev K. , Stein Nils , Reif Jochen
Published: August 2023

Professor Andreas Graner stands as a towering figure in international crop plant genomics research, leaving an indelible imprint on the field over the past four decades. As we commemorate the 80th anniversary of Leibniz Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research (IPK), Gatersleben, Germany and Professor Graner's retirement in September 2023, here we celebrate and acknowledge his profound impact on crop genome analyses and genebank genomics. His trailblazing work extends from developing the first integrated RFLP map of barley, establishing the foundation of barley genome sequencing, and advancing functional genomics of malting quality, to pioneering the use of high‐throughput phenomics. As the dedicated custodian of Germany's largest ex situ genebank at IPK Gatersleben, Professor Graner has fortified the institution's collection management and crop research, thereby contributing significantly to global efforts on conservation and utilization of plant genetic resources through genomics approaches. Alongside his impressive array of scientific achievements, Professor Graner's inspiring mentorship has nurtured a new generation of scientists, including us, leaving a lasting legacy in the field. This tribute underscores his enduring influence and celebrates his unwavering dedication to the scientific community.
Can we combine practical and epistemic reason?
Authors: Bradley Darren
Published: August 2023

This paper offers a theory of how epistemic and practical reasons for belief can be combined into all‐things‐considered reason. Unlike alternative theories, it does not involve any sharp cut‐offs or lexical priorities among types of reason. The theory allows that the relative strengths of the practical and epistemic reasons matter, as does the distance between the epistemically rational credence and the practically rational credence. Although there are important differences between the structure of epistemic and practical reason, they can still be combined in a satisfactory way. The central idea is that epistemic reason determines an epistemically rational doxastic state, and practical reason can push it around.
Role of interleukin‐36γ induced by ultraviolet radiation in chronic actinic dermatitis
Authors: Wang Li , Tu Yunhua , Wu Wenjuan , Tu Ying , Yang Zhenghui , Chai Yanjie , Yang Xinwang , He Li
Published: August 2023

Background

Chronic actinic dermatitis (CAD) is an immune‐mediated photodermatosis characterized by a high eosinophil count and total immunoglobulin E (IgE) in the peripheral blood of patients. At present, however, the reasons for their elevation remain unclear.

Objective

The current study aimed to detect changes in inflammatory cytokines in CAD and explore their role in this disease.

Methods

Enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay and Luminex assay were conducted to measure inflammatory factor levels. Immunohistochemical analysis and quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction were performed to evaluate the expression levels of interleukin‐36γ (IL‐36γ), IL‐8, chemokine (C‐C motif) ligand 17 (CCL17), and CCL18. CCK8 kits were used to assess cell proliferation. Immunofluorescence was used to detect nuclear factor κB (NF‐κB) p65 nuclear translocation. Western blot analysis was performed to detect the protein expression level of phosphorylated NF‐κB (p‐NF‐κB) p65. Hematoxylin and eosin and Masson trichrome staining were applied to observe histological changes in a chronic photo‐damaged mouse model.

Results

Eosinophils, total IgE, IL‐36γ, IL‐8, tumor necrosis factor α, CCL17, and CCL18 were elevated in CAD. Of note, IL‐36γ promoted the proliferation of eosinophilic cells (EOL‐1) and the production of IgE in peripheral blood mononuclear cells. IL‐36γ also promoted the production of IL‐8 and CCL18 in immortalized human keratinocytes (HaCaT cells), while ultraviolet radiation (UVR)‐induced IL‐36γ via activation of the NF‐κB signaling pathway.

Conclusions

IL‐36γ was involved in the pathogenesis of CAD and UVR contributed to the production of IL‐36γ, which may provide a novel therapeutic target for CAD.
Soybean red crown rot: Current knowledge and future challenges
Authors: Jiang Chang‐Jie , Xie Xianzhi
Published: August 2023

Soybean red crown rot (RCR) is caused by the soilborne fungal pathogenCalonectria ilicicola. It causes root rot, leaf senescence, early defoliation, plant wilting and even death, often resulting in a severe reduction in seed yield and quality.C. ilicicolais an extremely difficult pathogen to control owing to its wide host range and long survival in soil and plant debris. Currently, no practically effective fungicide for this pathogen is available. Breeding for resistance is considered the most effective and environmentally acceptable means of disease management, but noC. ilicicola‐resistant soybean variety has yet been identified. Given this situation, it is necessary to promote our understanding of the mechanism of RCR incidence and the development of a comprehensive and sustainable RCR management strategy urgently.
A data‐driven method for identifying the locations of hurricane evacuations from mobile phone location data
Authors: Washington Valerie , Guikema Seth , Mondisa Joi‐Lynn , Misra Aditi
Published: August 2023

How evacuations are managed can substantially impact the risks faced by affected communities. Having a better understanding of the mobility patterns of evacuees can improve the planning and management of these evacuations. Although mobility patterns during evacuations have traditionally been studied through surveys, mobile phone location data can be used to capture these movements for a greater number of evacuees over a larger geographic area. Several approaches have been used to identify hurricane evacuation patterns from location data; however, each approach relies on researcher judgment to first determine the areas from which evacuations occurred and then identify evacuations by determining when an individual spends a specified number of nights away from home. This approach runs the risk of detecting non‐evacuation behaviors (e.g., work trips, vacations, etc.) and incorrectly labeling them as evacuations where none occurred. In this article, we developed a data‐driven method to determine which areas experienced evacuations. With this approach, we inferred home locations of mobile phone users, calculated their departure times, and determined if an evacuation may have occurred by comparing the number of departures around the time of the hurricane against historical trends. As a case study, we applied this method to location data from Hurricanes Matthew and Irma to identify areas that experienced evacuations and illustrate how this method can be used to detect changes in departure behavior leading up to and following a hurricane. We validated and examined the inferred homes for representativeness and validated observed evacuation trends against past studies.
Computational fluid dynamics simulation of hemodynamic changes in a hemodialysis patient with central venous stenosis treated with stent
Authors: Teng Biyun , Fu Qining , Wang Zhe
Published: August 2023

We comment on the recently published to investigate hemodynamic changes in central venous stenosis patients before and after stent placement. Through the evidence, we believe that the boundary conditions in computational models and simulations of this study are incorrect in three points.
Implications of CD45RA and CD45RO T cell subsets in patients of chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyposis infected with Aspergillus flavus
Authors: Rai Gargi , Das Shukla , Ansari Mohammad Ahmad , Singh Praveen Kumar , Dar Sajad Ahmad , Gupta Neelima , Sharma Sonal , Ramachandran Vishnampettai Ganapathysubramanian , Jain Charu
Published: August 2023

T cell subsets (CD4 and CD8) play a prominent role in the development of chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyposis (CRSwNP). Colonization with Aspergillus flavus is recognized as a trigger for the growth of nasal polyps. The fungal proteins initiate the recruitment of T cells into the nasal mucosa, which contributes to the progression of nasal polyps. The study included 50 cases of CRSwNP and 50 healthy controls. Biopsies were subjected to KOH and culture for mycological investigation. We examined the changes in T helper (CD4+) and T cytotoxic (CD8+) in total T cells (CD3+) and expression of naive (CD45RA) and memory (CD45RO) cell markers in T cell subsets in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) challenged by A. flavus antigens in cases before and after treatment and in healthy controls by flow cytometry. Predominantly, A. flavus (86%) identified in nasal polyp biopsies of patients. An increased percentage of CD3+CD4+ T cells observed after A. flavus stimulation in patients when compared with healthy controls. The expression of CD4+CD45RA+ cells was significantly (P < .05) reduced in patients and increased CD4+CD45RO+ was observed upon stimulation with A. flavus in patients when compared with healthy control. Continuous exposure to inhaled fungal spores may induce aberrant immune responses to A. flavus spores, causing an allergic immunological reaction with high CD4+T cell responses, resulting in an unfavourable outcome. Elevated CD4+CD45RO+ T cells may transform the pathogenic response and highlight the chances of A. flavus reactive T cells involvement in prompting inflammation in CRSwNP.
Estimating absorption time distributions of general Markov jump processes
Authors: Ahmad Jamaal , Bladt Martin , Bladt Mogens
Published: August 2023

The estimation of absorption time distributions of Markov jump processes is an important task in various branches of statistics and applied probability. While the time‐homogeneous case is classic, the time‐inhomogeneous case has recently received increased attention due to its added flexibility and advances in computational power. However, commuting sub‐intensity matrices are assumed, which in various cases limits the parsimonious properties of the resulting representation. This paper develops the theory required to solve the general case through maximum likelihood estimation, and in particular, using the expectation‐maximization algorithm. A reduction to a piecewise constant intensity matrix function is proposed in order to provide succinct representations, where a parametric linear model binds the intensities together. Practical aspects are discussed and illustrated through the estimation of notoriously demanding theoretical distributions and real data, from the perspective of matrix analytic methods.
Communication‐efficient low‐dimensional parameter estimation and inference for high‐dimensional Lp$$ {L}^p $$‐quantile regression
Authors: Gao Junzhuo , Wang Lei
Published: August 2023

The ‐quantile regression generalizes both quantile regression and expectile regression, and has become popular for its robustness and effectiveness especially when . In this paper, we consider the data that are inherently distributed and propose two distributed ‐quantile regression estimators for a preconceived low‐dimensional parameter in the presence of high‐dimensional extraneous covariates. To handle the impact of high‐dimensional nuisance parameters, we first investigate regularized projection score for estimating low‐dimensional parameter of main interest in ‐quantile regression. To deal with the distributed data, we further propose two communication‐efficient surrogate projection score estimators and establish their theoretical properties. The finite‐sample performance of the proposed estimators is studied through simulations and an application to Communities and Crime data set is also presented.
Family mental health during the COVID‐19 pandemic: Changes in parent‐adolescent internalizing symptoms in the United States
Authors: Mercado Evelyn , Barbieri Marielena , Suh Se Min
Published: August 2023

The current paper examined the temporal linkage of internalizing symptoms among parent‐adolescent dyads during the beginning of the COVID‐19 pandemic, and whether COVID‐19‐related concerns were associated with parent‐adolescent linkage of symptoms. Using a 5‐week survey‐based study, parent‐adolescent dyads filled out weekly surveys measuring COVID‐19 concerns and internalizing symptoms. Parent and adolescent depressive symptoms did not change over time; however, adolescents experienced decreases in anxiety. Parent‐adolescent dyads exhibited linkage in depressive symptoms but not anxiety symptoms. However, linkage in anxiety symptoms varied by parent's COVID‐related stress. Study findings provide insight into how COVID‐19 disruptions impacted family well‐being during adolescence.
Mapping peat thickness and carbon stock of a degraded peatland in West Sumatra, Indonesia
Authors: Fiantis Dian , Rudiyanto  , Ginting Frisa Irawan , Agtalarik Aldo , Arianto Destri Tito , Wichaksono Panji , Irfan Rahmad , Nelson Malik , Gusnidar Gusnidar , Jeon Sangho , Minasny Budiman
Published: August 2023

Tropical peatlands store a large amount of carbon and act as carbon sinks, thus have crucial roles in regulating climate by preventing CO2 emission and enhancing carbon sequestration. However, the conversion of these peatlands for agricultural purposes, such as oil palm plantations, leads to carbon loss and increased CO2 emissions. To effectively protect and manage vulnerable areas, accurate mapping of peatland thickness and carbon stocks is essential, aligning with Indonesia's National Determined Contribution to climate action. This research article aims to assess the status of peatland in Agam‐West Pasaman, Western Sumatra, which was cleared between 1990 and 2000 for oil palm cultivation. Digital Soil Mapping (DSM) approaches were employed to map peat thickness, carbon stock and estimate carbon loss resulting from land use change. The study area, spanning 54,000 hectares, was covered by peat‐swamp forest in 1989. A grid of 2 km was used for a soil survey, resulting in 134 observation points of peat thickness, water level and subsidence. Various spatial prediction methods, including geostatistics, machine learning (ML) and their combination, were tested to map peat thickness, carbon stocks, subsidence rate and carbon loss. The covariates considered in the analysis were elevation, nearest distance from rivers and Sentinel 1a radar images. The results obtained through 10‐fold cross‐validations revealed that ordinary kriging exhibited the best performance, with an R2 of 0.44 for peat thickness and 0.39 for carbon stocks. The superior performance of ordinary kriging can be attributed to the severe impact of human activities in the area, which disrupted the clear relationship between peat parameters and environmental covariates. The estimated carbon stock of the area was 107 Mt C (std. dev. 0.143 Mt), while the carbon loss since the establishment of oil palm plantations was estimated to be 19.50 Mt C (std. dev. 0.017 Mt C) based on subsidence data. These findings provide insights into the degradation of the peatland and the magnitude of carbon loss over the past three decades. This information supports informed decision‐making and contributes to efforts aimed at preserving and restoring peatlands.
Diagnosis of visceral leishmaniasis in Ceará state, Brazil: A flow analysis of cases between 2007 and 2021
Authors: de Sousa Cavalcante Kellyn Kessiene , Cavalcante Francisco Roger Aguiar , Boigny Reagan Nzundu , Borges Kelvia Maria Oliveira , Alencar Carlos Henrique
Published: August 2023

Objectives

To analyse the flow of cases of visceral leishmaniasis (VL) in the state of Ceará, Brazil, between 2007 and 2021.

Methods

An ecological study was conducted using a spatial approach of newly confirmed cases of VL recorded in the Notifiable Diseases Information System. We identified individuals whose municipality of diagnosis differed from that of their residence. Flow maps, constructed using Tabwin 32 and ArcMap 9.2, allowed for the identification of the volume of traffic between the municipality of residence and that of initial care.

Results

There were 6775 confirmed VL cases. As a flow indicator, 178 counties had at least one resident diagnosed in another municipality in Ceará, with 2491 VL cases and an average trip of 79 km. The largest hub for receiving cases for diagnosis was the capital Fortaleza (1478 patients from 129 other municipalities), followed by Sobral, located in the northwestern region of Ceará (599 from 55 municipalities), and Barbalha, in the southern region (171 from 29 municipalities). In this southern region, 25 municipalities moved 55 people for treatment to Juazeiro do Norte and 11 municipalities moved 39 patients to Crato. A total of 255 patients with VL from 11 municipalities in other Brazilian states, mainly from the Northeast and North, were observed and notified in health services in Ceará.

Conclusions

The major centres of VL diagnosis outside residence were in the cities of Fortaleza, Sobral, Barbalha, Juazeiro do Norte and Crato. There was also an outflow of cases from other municipalities located in the northeastern and northern regions of Brazil. The flows were more intense during the first triennium of the analysis and milder from 2019 to 2021. Understanding the diagnostic flow of VL helps in decision making and the development of public policies to improve the lives of the population.
Eclogite in the East Kunlun Orogen, northwestern China: A record of the Neoproterozoic breakup of Rodinia and early Paleozoic continental subduction
Authors: Xiong Lu , Zhang Guibin , Song Shuguang , Liu Shuaiqi , Feng Di , Chang Feng
Published: August 2023

An early Paleozoic eclogite belt extends discontinuously for ∼500 km in the East Kunlun Orogen, northwestern China, which provides insight into the evolution of the Proto-Tethys Ocean. However, the nature and age of the eclogite protoliths and subsequent metamorphism are unclear. Here, we report mineral chemical, zircon, and titanite geochronological; whole-rock major and trace elemental; and Sr-Nd isotopic data for eclogites from the Xiarihamu area in the western East Kunlun Orogen. At a minimum, these eclogites underwent peak eclogite-facies metamorphism at 27−28 kbar and 630−650 °C, post-peak decompression, and retrograde amphibolite-facies overprinting. Geochemically, eclogites have characteristics typical of enriched mid-oceanic-ridge basalts and oceanic-island basalts. Inherited magmatic zircon cores yielded a protolith age of 828 Ma, and metamorphic zircons yielded peak and post-peak decompression ages of 443 Ma and 422 Ma, respectively. A titanite U-Pb age of 413 Ma constrains the timing of later amphibolite-facies overprinting. The protoliths of the Xiarihamu eclogites were the products of continental rift-related basaltic magmatism, which was generated during the initial breakup of Rodinia. The protoliths experienced eclogite-facies metamorphism in a continental subduction/collisional setting during the early Paleozoic. The formation of the Xiarihamu eclogites suggests that the Proto-Tethys Ocean had closed by 443 Ma. Given the spatio-temporal relationship between the Xiarihamu magmatic Cu-Ni sulfide deposit and the eclogites studied, the former may have formed in a post-collisional extensional setting. The eclogites and magmatic Cu-Ni sulfide deposit from the Xiarihamu area jointly reveal the evolution of the East Kunlun Orogen from Neoproterozoic supercontinent breakup to early Paleozoic tectonic transitions from collisional convergence to post-collisional extension.
Late Mesozoic magmatism and gold metallogeny of the Jiaodong Peninsula, China: A response to the destruction of the North China Craton
Authors: Wang Bin , Zhou Jian-Bo , Ding Zheng-Jiang , Wilde Simon A. , Song Ming-Chun , Zhao Ti-Qun , Bao Zhong-Yi
Published: August 2023

The late Mesozoic destruction of the eastern North China Craton (NCC) resulted from intense crust-mantle interaction, culminating in the formation of world-class gold deposits in the Jiaodong Peninsula at ca. 120 Ma. We present zircon U-Pb geochronological data, Hf isotopic compositions, whole-rock major and trace element, and Sr-Nd-Pb isotopic compositions for two suites of granitoids: one (the Linglong suite) that hosts significant mineralization and the other (the Weideshan suite) that is largely unmineralized. The Linglong suite was emplaced in the Late Jurassic at 160 ± 3 Ma to 155 ± 3 Ma, whereas the Weideshan suite was emplaced in the Early Cretaceous at 121 ± 2 Ma to 118 ± 1 Ma, coeval with gold mineralization. Geochemical data indicate the Linglong suite was derived from the melting of thickened lower crust of the NCC, mixed with material from the Yangtze Craton (YC) and intervening Su-Lu Orogenic Belt, whereas the Weideshan suite was formed from the partial melting of lower continental crust, with the addition of enriched lithospheric mantle components. The Late Jurassic magmatism was associated with crustal growth resulting from the continental collision between the NCC and YC and subsequent subduction of the Paleo-Pacific Oceanic Plate (PPOP). In contrast, Early Cretaceous magmatism was triggered by rapid lithospheric thinning and asthenospheric upwelling resulting from slab roll-back and stagnation of the PPOP beneath the NCC. Lithospheric delamination induced the widespread development of secondary structures associated with the major Tan-Lu Fault, providing favorable loci for the accumulation of auriferous fluids.
Supplemental Material: Inorganic sulfate–based signatures of chemosymbiosis in modern infaunal lucinids
Authors: Bryant Roger N. , al. et
Published: August 2023

Materials and methods continued; Figures S1–S4; and Table S1.  
Supplemental Material: Tracing the crustal evolution of the Precambrian Southern Granulite terrane in East Gondwana: New insights from zircon U-Pb/Hf geochronology
Authors: Tomson J.K. , Dev J. Amal
Published: August 2023

Supplemental File S1: Zircon U-Pb, trace-element, and Hf isotope data of samples and standards. Supplemental File S2: Data sources for Figure 8.
Understanding interventions delivered in the emergency department targeting improved asthma outcomes beyond the emergency department: an integrative review
Authors: Skene Imogen , Kinley Emma , Pike Katherine , Griffiths Chris , Pfeffer Paul , Steed Liz
Published: August 2023

Objectives

The emergency department (ED) represents a place and moment of opportunity to provide interventions to improve long-term asthma outcomes, but feasibility, effectiveness and mechanisms of impact are poorly understood. We aimed to review the existing literature on interventions that are delivered in the ED for adults and adolescents, targeting asthma outcomes beyond the ED, and to code the interventions according to theory used, and to understand the barriers and facilitators to their implementation.

Methods

We systematically searched seven electronic databases and research registers, and manually searched reference lists of included studies and relevant reviews. Both quantitative and qualitative studies that reported on interventions delivered in the ED which aimed to improve asthma outcomes beyond management of the acute exacerbation, for adolescents or adults were included. Methodological quality was assessed using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool and informed study interpretation. Theory was coded using the Theoretical Domains Framework. Findings were summarised by narrative synthesis.

Results

12 articles were included, representing 10 unique interventions, including educational and medication-based changes (6 randomised controlled trials and 4 non-randomised studies). Six trials reported statistically significant improvements in one or more outcome measures relating to long-term asthma control, including unscheduled healthcare, asthma control, asthma knowledge or quality of life. We identified limited use of theory in the intervention designs with only one intervention explicitly underpinned by theory. There was little reporting on facilitators or barriers, although brief interventions appeared more feasible.

Conclusion

The results of this review suggest that ED-based asthma interventions may be capable of improving long-term outcomes. However, there was significant variation in the range of interventions, reported outcomes and duration of follow-up. Future interventions would benefit from using behaviour change theory, such as constructs from the Theoretical Domains Framework.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD 42020223058.
Progression and incidence of myopia among schoolchildren in the post-COVID-19 pandemic period: a prospective cohort study in Shantou, China
Authors: Guo Chengyao , Li Yuancun , Luo Li , Lin Jianwei , Qiu Kunliang , Zhang Mingzhi
Published: August 2023

Objectives

To determine the progression and incidence of myopia in Chinese schoolchildren in the post-COVID-19 pandemic period in Shantou, China.

Design

Prospective cohort study.

Setting

Shantou Myopia Study, China.

Participants

1-year follow-up data were available for 621 881 schoolchildren (301 999 females). Data on spherical equivalent refraction (SER) were collected.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

The primary outcomes were myopia progression and incidence. Myopia progression is defined as a change of SER towards the negative direction in the follow-up visit. Incidence is defined as the proportion of schoolchildren who were not myopic but developed myopia in the follow-up study. Age, sex and SER at baseline were evaluated as associated factors for myopia burden, which were defined as the secondary outcomes.

Results

Mean progression of SER was −0.35±0.97 D for the population (ranging from −0.06 D at 18 years of age to −0.46 D at 11 years of age), with a rapid myopic progression for students at the age of 10–12 years (−0.50 D in girls and −0.44 D in boys). A myopic shift greater than −0.50 D/year occurred in 256 299 eyes (41.21%). Myopic progression in refraction was associated with the 10–12 years age groups (OR 1.42; 95% CI 1.39 to 1.45, p<0.001), female sex (OR 1.09; 95% CI 1.08 to 1.10, p<0.001) and higher refractive errors at baseline (OR>1.00, p<0.001). The annual incidence of myopia among schoolchildren was 24.85%, with an incidence of 26.69% in girls and 23.02% in boys.

Conclusions

Our study revealed an annual myopia progression of −0.35 D and an incidence of 24.85% among schoolchildren in the post-COVID-19 pandemic period. Myopia progressed rapidly at 10–12 years of age, with −0.50 D in girls and −0.44 D in boys. The incidence was higher for children aged 10–11 years and for girls.
Global burden and trends of transport injuries from 1990 to 2019: an observational trend study
Authors: Wan Rui , Xia Jun , Duan Fangfang , Min Li , Liu Tan
Published: August 2023

Background

Transport injuries (TIs) are a major cause of global disability-adjusted life-years (DALYs) and mortality. In this study, we aimed to assess the global burden and trends of TIs from 1990 to 2019.

Methods

We assessed the annual age-standardised incidence rate (ASIR) and age-standardised DALYs rate of TIs by sex, age, Social Development Index (SDI) and geographical region from 1990 to 2019 from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2019. The changing trends were described by estimated annual percentage changes (EAPCs).

Results

Globally, in 2019, the ASIR and age-standardised DALYs rates of TIs were 134 6.06/100 000 (95% UI 11 42.6/100 000–157 5.57/100 000) and 97 7.91/100 000 (86 8.91/100 000–107 6.81/100 000), respectively. From 1990 to 2019, the global ASIR of TIs presented significant upwards trends with the EAPC (0.25%, 95% CI 0.19% to 0.31%), and it was significantly increased in the age groups of 15–49 (0.37%, 95% CI 0.29% to 0.45%), 50–69 (0.40%, 95% CI 0.36% to 0.44%) and 70+ (0.22%, 95% CI 0.17% to 0.28%). Prominent increases in ASIR were detected in middle-SDI areas (0.72%, 95% CI 0.57% to 0.87%), low-middle SDI areas (0.66%, 95% CI 0.59% to 0.72%) and low-SDI areas (0.21%, 95% CI 0.17% to 0.26%). The global age-standardised DALYs rate presented downwards trends with the EAPC (−1.27%, 95% CI −1.35% to −1.2%), and it was significantly decreased in all age groups and SDI areas.

Conclusion

Globally, TIs still cause a serious burden, and the incidence has significantly increased, especially in people above the age of 14 and in middle-SDI and low-SDI areas, thus necessitating more attention and health interventions.
Prevalence and factors associated with occupational injuries among building construction workers in the Gambia
Authors: Kinteh Bakary , Bass Paul
Published: August 2023

Background

Although occupational injuries among building construction workers are a major public health concern, limited studies have focused on the prevalence and factors associated with injuries among building construction workers in sub-Saharan Africa. Accordingly, this study investigates the prevalence and factors associated with occupational injuries among building construction workers in the Gambia.

Method

Using a cross-sectional design, 504 building construction workers with more than 12 months of work experience in the construction industry and aged ≥18 years were recruited from 22 registered companies in the Kanifing Municipality of the Gambia. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and an observational checklist.

Results

More than 56% of the building construction workers reported sustaining work-related injuries in the past 12 months. Majority of injuries reported were abrasions/lacerations (28.2%), followed by cuts (26.6%), backaches (23.8%) and piercing/punctured wounds (22.8%). Results of the multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that being male worker (adjusted OR (aOR), 3.06; 95% CI 1.31 to 7.19), had <8 hours of work daily (aOR 3.46, 95% CI 1.44 to 7.78), smoke tobacco (aOR 1.97; 95% CI 1.36 to 2.85) and consume alcohol (aOR 0.27; 95% CI 0.08 to 0.95) were significantly associated with injuries from building construction work.

Conclusion

Our findings show that injuries among building construction workers are prevalent in the Gambia. Male gender, work hours, tobacco use and alcohol consumption were associated with occupational injuries in building construction. Introducing and enforcing workplace safety policies in the building construction industry may help reduce occupational injury among construction workers in the Gambia.
A biologic-device combination product delivering tumor-derived antigens elicits immunogenic cell death-associated immune responses against glioblastoma
Authors: Cultrara Christopher , Uhl Christopher , Kirby Kenneth , Abed Elrazaq Essam , Zellander Amelia , Andrews David W , Scott Charles B , Galluzzi Lorenzo , Exley Mark A , Zilberberg Jenny
Published: August 2023

Background

IGV-001 is a personalized, autologous cancer cell-based immunotherapy conceived to deliver a tumor-derived antigenic payload in the context of immunostimulatory signals to patients with glioblastoma (GBM). IGV-001 consists of patient-derived GBM cells treated with an antisense oligodeoxynucleotide against insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor (IGF1R) and placed in proprietary biodiffusion chambers (BDCs). The BDCs are then exposed to 5–6 Gy radiation and implanted at abdominal sites for ~48 hours. IGV-001 has previously been shown to be generally safe with promising clinical activity in newly diagnosed GBM patients.

Methods

Mouse (m) or human (h) variants of IGV-001 were prepared using GL261 mouse GBM cells or human GBM cells, respectively. BDCs containing vehicle ormIGV-001 were implanted in the flanks of C57BL/6 albino female mice in preventative and therapeutic experiments, optionally in combination with a programmed cell death 1 (PD-1) blocker. Bioactivity of the general approach was also measured against hepatocellular carcinoma Hepa 1–6 cells. Mice were followed for the growth of subsequently implanted or pre-existing tumors and survival. Draining lymph nodes from mice receivingmIGV-001 were immunophenotyped.mIGV-001 andhIGV-001 were analyzed for extracellular ATP and high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) as indicators of immunogenic cell death (ICD), along with flow cytometric analysis of viability, surface calreticulin, and reactive oxygen species. Stress and cell death-related pathways were analyzed by immunoblotting.

Results

IGV-001 causes oxidative and endoplasmic reticulum stress in GL261 cells, resulting in a cytotoxic response that enables the release of antigenic material and immunostimulatory, ICD-associated molecules including ATP and HMGB1 from BDCs. Immunophenotyping confirmed that IGV-001 increases the percentage of dendritic cells, as well as effector, and effector memory T cells in BDC-draining lymph nodes. Consistent with these observations, preventative IGV-001 limited tumor progression and extended overall survival in mice intracranially challenged with GL261 cells, a benefit that was associated with an increase in tumor-specific T cells with effector features. Similar findings were obtained in the Hepa 1–6 model. Moreover, therapeutically administered IGV-001 combined with PD-1 delayed progression in GBM-bearing mice.

Conclusions

These results support treatment with IGV-001 to induce clinically relevant ICD-driven anticancer immune responses in patients with GBM.
Single-cell sequencing on CD8+TILs revealed the nature of exhausted T cells recognizing neoantigen and cancer/testis antigen in non-small cell lung cancer
Authors: Komuro Hiroyasu , Shinohara Shuichi , Fukushima Yasunori , Demachi-Okamura Ayako , Muraoka Daisuke , Masago Katsuhiro , Matsui Takuya , Sugita Yusuke , Takahashi Yusuke , Nishida Reina , Takashima Chieko , Ohki Takashi , Shigematsu Yoshiki , Watanabe Fumiaki , Adachi Katsutoshi , Fukuyama Takashi , Hamana Hiroshi , Kishi Hiroyuki , Miura Daiki , Tanaka Yuki , Onoue Kousuke , Onoguchi Kazuhide , Yamashita Yoshiko , Stratford Richard , Clancy Trevor , Yamaguchi Rui , Kuroda Hiroaki , Doi Kiyoshi , Iwata Hisashi , Matsushita Hirokazu
Published: August 2023

Background

CD8+tumor infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs) are often observed in non-small cell lung cancers (NSCLC). However, the characteristics of CD8+TILs, especially T-cell populations specific for tumor antigens, remain poorly understood.

Methods

High throughput single-cell RNA sequencing and single-cell T-cell receptor (TCR) sequencing were performed on CD8+TILs from three surgically-resected lung cancer specimens. Dimensional reduction for clustering was performed using Uniform Manifold Approximation and Projection. CD8+TIL TCR specific for the cancer/testis antigen KK-LC-1 and for predicted neoantigens were investigated. Differentially-expressed gene analysis, Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA) and single sample GSEA was performed to characterize antigen-specific T cells.

Results

A total of 6998 CD8+T cells was analyzed, divided into 10 clusters according to their gene expression profile. An exhausted T-cell (exhausted T (Tex)) cluster characterized by the expression ofENTPD1(CD39),TOX,PDCD1(PD1),HAVCR2(TIM3) and other genes, and by T-cell oligoclonality, was identified. The Tex TCR repertoire (Tex-TCRs) contained nine different TCR clonotypes recognizing five tumor antigens including a KK-LC-1 antigen and four neoantigens. By re-clustering the tumor antigen-specific T cells (n=140), it could be seen that the individual T-cell clonotypes were present on cells at different stages of differentiation and functional states even within the same Tex cluster. Stimulating these T cells with predicted cognate peptide indicated that TCR signal strength and subsequent T-cell proliferation and cytokine production was variable but always higher for neoantigens than KK-LC-1.

Conclusions

Our approach focusing on T cells with an exhausted phenotype among CD8+TILs may facilitate the identification of tumor antigens and clarify the nature of the antigen-specific T cells to specify the promising immunotherapeutic targets in patients with NSCLC.
How do we PI? Results of an EAST quality, patient safety, and outcomes survey
Authors: Horwitz Daniel , Dumas Ryan Peter , Cunningham Kyle , Palacio Carlos H , Margulies Daniel R , Eme Christine , Bukur Marko
Published: August 2023

Background

Quality improvement is a cornerstone for any verified trauma center. Conducting effective quality and performance improvement, however, remains a challenge. In this study, we sought to better explore the landscape and challenges facing the members of the Eastern Association for the Surgery of Trauma (EAST) through a survey.

Methods

A survey was designed by the EAST Quality Patient Safety and Outcomes Committee. It was reviewed by the EAST Research and Scholarship Committee and then distributed to 2511 EAST members. The questions were designed to understand the frequency, content, and perceptions surrounding quality improvement processes.

Results

There were 151 respondents of the 2511 surveys sent (6.0%). The majority were trauma faculty (55%) or trauma medical directors (TMDs) (37%) at American College of Surgeons level I (62%) or II (17%) trauma centers. We found a wide variety of resources being used across hospitals with the majority of cases being identified by a TMD or attending (81%) for a multidisciplinary peer review (70.2%). There was a statistically significant difference in the perception of the effectiveness of the quality improvement process with TMDs being more likely to describe their process as moderately or very effective compared with their peers (77.5% vs. 57.7%, p=0.026). The ‘Just Culture’ model appeared to have a positive effect on the process improvement environment, with providers less likely to report a non-conducive environment (10.9% vs. 27.6%, p=0.012) and less feelings of assigning blame (3.1% vs. 13.8%, p=0.026).

Conclusion

Case review remains an essential but challenging process. Our survey reveals a need to continue to advocate for appropriate time and resources to conduct strong quality improvement processes.

Level of evidence

Epidemiological study, level III.
Three years of quality assurance data assessing the performance of over 4000 grant peer review contributions to the Canadian Institutes of Health Research Project Grant Competition
Authors: Ardern Clare L. , Martino Nadia , Nag Sammy , Tamblyn Robyn , Moher David , Mota Adrian , Khan Karim M.
Published: August 2023

The Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) commenced a Quality Assurance Program in 2019 to monitor the quality of peer review in its Project Grant Competition Peer Review Committees. Our primary aim was to describe the performance of CIHR grant peer reviewers, based on the assessments made by CIHR peer review leaders during the first 3 years of the Research Quality Assurance Program. All Peer Review Committee Chairs and (or) Scientific Officers who led peer review for CIHR in 2019, 2020, and 2021 completed Reviewer Quality Feedback forms immediately following Peer Review Committee meetings. The form assessed Performance, Future potential, Review quality, Participation, and Responsiveness. We summarised and descriptively synthesised data from assessments conducted after each of the four grant competitions. The performance of peer reviewers on 4438 occasions was rated by Chairs and Scientific Officers. Approximately one in three peer reviewers submitted outstanding reviews or discussed additional applications and one in 10 demonstrated potential as a future Peer Review Committee leader. At most, one in 20 peer reviewers was considered to have not performed adequately with respect to review quality, participation, or responsiveness. There is a need for more research on the processes involved in allocating research grant funding.
Noether symmetry analysis in scalar tensor cosmology: a study of classical and quantum cosmology
Authors: Laya Dipankar , Bhaumik Roshni , Chakraborty Subenoy
Published: August 2023

The present work deals with a complex scalar field in scalar tensor gravity theory in the background of spatially flat Friedmann–Lema$${\hat{i}}$$

i
^

tre–Robertson–Walker (FLRW) geometry. Noether symmetry analysis has been used to determine the classical cosmological solution of a scalar field in scalar–tensor theory with the scalar field as a nonminimally coupled complex field. Noether symmetry analysis is not only used to find a symmetry vector and potential but also it helps in finding an appropriate transformation $$(a,~\phi ,~\theta )\rightarrow (u,~v,~\theta )$$

(
a
,

ϕ
,

θ
)
→
(
u
,

v
,

θ
)

in the augmented space so that one of the new variables becomes cyclic. In quantum cosmology, the Wheeler–DeWitt (WD) equation has been formed in the minisuperspace and its solution i.e. the wave function of the universe has been evaluated by using the operator version of the conserved (Noether) charge. Finally, the nature of the classical solution has been discussed from the observational point of view and the cosmological singularity has been examined both classically and quantum mechanically.