bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Probiotic nanovesicles encapsulating baicalin: a strategy to overcome colorectal cancer
Authors: Li Yifan , Zhao Xinrui , Wang Dan , Wang Ruilin , Zhu Rui , You Xiaojuan , Liu Xinwei , Li Yongwei
Published: November 2024

Escherichia coli Nissle 1917 (EcN) is a unique probiotic utilized to treat inflammatory bowel disease and irritable bowel syndrome. Outer membrane vesicles (OMVs) from EcN can not only deliver pro-biotic anti-inflammatory molecules to cancer cells to exert anti-rectal cancer effects, but also deliver therapeutic drugs, genes, and other “cargoes” encapsulated in the vesicles to specific cells, making them an ideal vehicle for drug delivery. In this study, we successfully isolated OMVs of probiotic origin and obtained BCN-OMVs by encapsulating baicalin (BCN) in EcN-OMVs. Fluorescence microscopy showed that both fluorescently labeled EcN-OMVs and BCN-OMVs were able to enter HT-29 cells. The results of CCK-8, plate cloning, flow cytometry, and western blotting indicated that the vitality and proliferation of HT-29 cells were sensibly inhibited after treatment with BCN-OMVs. Additionally, apoptosis-related proteins and proteins involved in the NF-κB pathway were also expressed differently. The results above suggest that EcN-OMVs, serving as a bio-nanocarrier of BCN, can effectively address the limitations of BCN, such as poor water solubility and low bioavailability. They also play a significant anti-tumor role by enhancing cancer cell apoptosis, showing promising potential in targeted therapy for colorectal cancer (CRC).
Humour and Caricature in Nielsen’s Symphonies
Authors: Powell Larson
Published: November 2024

This article seeks to define a musical notion of caricature as a means to grasp Carl Nielsen’s peculiar approach to modernism, with special attention to the symphonies. Caricature is a specifically modernist technique, given prominence in Hogarth’s and Baudelaire’s art criticism. There is, however, little extant musicological work on this concept. Caricature must be differentiated from the grotesque (Berlioz, Stravinsky) and humour (from Haydn to Mahler), with reference to modernist visual art (line in Picasso, Expressionism, Wilhelm Worringer’s Gothic), as also to Nielsen’s Danish literary context. Links are also made to Nielsen’s relation to Brahms. This allows for extension of critical insights made by Daniel Grimley and David Fanning on Nielsen’s peculiar relation to modernism. Caricature may be seen as a latent form of abstraction or constructivism once it is cut free of mere depiction of ‘character’. The last two symphonies (especially the Fifth) are seen as culminations of this development in Nielsen.
Oscillation frequencies of moderately rotating delta scuti stars: asymmetric mode splittings due to non-spherical distortion
Authors: Guo Zhao , Bedding Timothy R , Pamyatnykh A A , Kurtz Donald W , Li Gang , Gautam Anuj , Murphy Simon J , Aerts Conny
Published: November 2024

We find that the observed pressure-mode rotational splittings of slowly/moderately rotating $\delta$ Scuti stars and $\beta$ Cephei stars mostly have a positive asymmetry. That is, the left frequency spacing is larger than the right spacing in the dipole mode splitting triplets and the $l=2$ mode splitting multiplets (considering $m=1, 0, -1$ modes only). This is in agreement with the second-order perturbative effect of the rotational non-spherical distortion: both the prograde and retrograde modes have their frequencies shifted towards lower values relative to the $m=0$ modes. We thus study the rotational perturbation both in the first and second order, as well as the near-degeneracy mode coupling effect in MESA models representing $\delta$ Scuti stars. For faster rotators, the near-degeneracy mode coupling between the nearest radial and quadrupole modes can significantly shift the $m=0$ modes, reduce the splitting asymmetry, and even change its sign. We find the theoretical splitting asymmetry from the second-order non-spherical distortion can explain the observed asymmetry quantitatively. To facilitate future detections, we predict correlations between splitting asymmetry, splitting amplitude, and pulsation frequency. We also discuss additional factors that can influence splitting asymmetry, including embedded magnetic fields, resonant mode coupling, and binarity.
Deep learning VLBI image reconstruction with closure invariants
Authors: Lai Samuel , Thyagarajan Nithyanandan , Wong O Ivy , Diakogiannis Foivos , Hoefs Lucas
Published: November 2024

Interferometric closure invariants, constructed from triangular loops of mixed Fourier components, capture calibration-independent information on source morphology. While a complete set of closure invariants is directly obtainable from measured visibilities, the inverse transformation from closure invariants to the source intensity distribution is not established. In this work, we demonstrate a deep learning approach, Deep learning Image Reconstruction with Closure Terms (DIReCT), to directly reconstruct the image from closure invariants. Trained on both well-defined mathematical shapes (two-dimensional Gaussians, discs, ellipses, m-rings) and natural images (CIFAR-10), the results from our specially designed model are insensitive to station-based corruptions and thermal noise. The median fidelity score between the reconstruction and the blurred ground truth achieved is $\gtrsim 0.9$ even for untrained morphologies, where a unit score denotes perfect reconstruction. In our validation tests, DIReCT’s results are comparable to other state-of-the-art deconvolution and regularized maximum-likelihood image reconstruction algorithms, with the advantage that DIR eCT does not require hand-tuned hyperparameters for each individual prediction. This independent approach shows promising results and offers a calibration-independent constraint on source morphology, ultimately complementing and improving the reliability of sparse very long baseline interferometry imaging results.
Non-Gaussian likelihoods for Type Ia supernova cosmology: implications for dark energy and H0
Authors: Lovick Toby , Dhawan Suhail , Handley Will
Published: November 2024

The latest improvements in the scale and calibration of Type Ia supernova (SN Ia) catalogues allow us to constrain the specific nature and evolution of dark energy through its effect on the expansion history of the Universe. We present the results of Bayesian model comparison on the SNe Ia catalogue Pantheon+, where flat Lambda cold dark matter ($\Lambda$CDM) is preferred by the data over all other models and we find moderate evidence ($\Delta \log \mathcal {Z} \sim 2.5$) to reject a number of alternate dark energy models. The effect of peculiar velocity corrections on model comparison is analysed, where we find that removing peculiar velocity corrections lessens the $\Delta \log \mathcal {Z}$ of each cosmology against $\Lambda$CDM and overall reduces the strength of $\Lambda$CDM in the model comparison. As well as comparing cosmological models, the Bayesian methodology is extended to testing for non-gaussianity in the distribution of the Pantheon+ Hubble residuals. We find that adding a scale parameter to the Pantheon+ covariances, or alternately using a multivariate Student’s t-distribution fits the data better than the fiducial analysis, producing a marginalized evidence increase of $\Delta \log \mathcal {Z} = 1.70$ and 2.70, respectively. This improved treatment of the scatter produces a 5 per cent decrease in the uncertainty of the Hubble constant as compared to SH0ES, finding $H_0 = 73.67 \pm 0.99$${\rm km}\,{\rm s}^{-1}\,{\rm Mpc}^{-1}$ in $5.6\sigma$ tension with Planck, guided by the evidence when marginalizing over both cosmological and scatter models. We also explore $M_B$ transition models as a potential solution for the Hubble tension, finding no evidence to support these models among the SN data.
Multiwavelength coverage of the 2024 periastron passage of PSR B1259–63/LS 2883
Authors: Chernyakova M , Malyshev D , van Soelen B , Finn Gallagher A , Matchett N , Russell T D , van den Eijnden J , Lower M E , Johnston S , Tsygankov S , Salganik A , Shebalkova Iu
Published: November 2024

PSR B1259$-$63is a gamma-ray binary system with a 48 ms radio pulsar orbiting around an O9.5Ve star, LS 2883, in a highly eccentric ${\sim} 3.4$ yr long orbit. Close to the periastron the system is detected from radio up to the TeV energies due to the interaction of the stellar wind from LS 2883 and the pulsar’s relativistic outflow. Observations of the last four periastron passages, taken in 2010–2021, demonstrate periastron-to-periastron variability at all wavelengths, probably linked to the state of the Be star’s decretion disc. In this paper, we present the results of our optical, radio and X-ray observational campaigns on PSR B1259$-$63 performed in 2024 accompanied with the analysis of the publicly available GeV Fermi/LAT data. We show that this periastron passage was characterized by the early flaring of X-rays before the periastron passage and GeV emission after the periastron passage, which can be explained by a larger size of the decretion disc as supported by the optical observations. The structure of the GeV flare is also in agreement with the disruption of the large dense disc. The possible X-ray/radio correlation was observed only during the post-periastron rise of X-ray and radio emission.
mTOR inhibitors as potential therapeutics for endometriosis: a narrative review
Authors: Nakamura Akiko , Tanaka Yuji , Amano Tsukuru , Takebayashi Akie , Takahashi Akimasa , Hanada Tetsuro , Tsuji Shunichiro , Murakami Takashi
Published: November 2024

Mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) inhibitors have been used clinically as anticancer and immunosuppressive agents for over 20 years, demonstrating their safety after long-term administration. These inhibitors exhibit various effects, including inhibition of cell proliferation, interaction with the oestrogen and progesterone pathways, immunosuppression, regulation of angiogenesis, and control of autophagy. We evaluated the potential of mTOR inhibitors as therapeutic agents for endometriosis, examined the secondary benefits related to reproductive function, and assessed how their side effects can be managed. We conducted a thorough review of publications on the role of the mTOR pathway and the effectiveness of mTOR inhibitors in endometriosis patients. These results indicate that the mTOR pathway is activated in endometriosis. Additionally, mTOR inhibitors have shown efficacy as monotherapies for endometriosis. They may alleviate resistance to hormonal therapy in endometriosis, suggesting a potential synergistic effect when used in combination with hormonal therapy. The potential reproductive benefits of mTOR inhibitors include decreased miscarriage rates, improved implantation, and prevention of age-related follicular loss and ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome. Activation of the mTOR pathway has also been implicated in the malignant transformation of endometriosis. Preclinical studies suggest that the dosage of mTOR inhibitors needed for treating endometriosis may be lower than that required for anticancer or immunosuppressive therapy, potentially reducing dosage-dependent side effects. In conclusion, while mTOR inhibitors, which allow for pregnancy during oral administration, show potential for clinical use in all stages of endometriosis, current evidence is limited to preclinical studies, and further research is needed to confirm clinical effectiveness.
GoFCards: an integrated database and analytic platform for gain of function variants in humans
Authors: Zhao Wenjing , Tao Youfu , Xiong Jiayi , Liu Lei , Wang Zhongqing , Shao Chuhan , Shang Ling , Hu Yue , Xu Yishu , Su Yingluo , Yu Jiahui , Feng Tianyi , Xie Junyi , Xu Huijuan , Zhang Zijun , Peng Jiayi , Wu Jianbin , Zhang Yuchang , Zhu Shaobo , Xia Kun , Tang Beisha , Zhao Guihu , Li Jinchen , Li Bin
Published: November 2024

Gain-of-function (GOF) variants, which introduce new or amplify protein functions, are essential for understanding disease mechanisms. Despite advances in genomics and functional research, identifying and analyzing pathogenic GOF variants remains challenging owing to fragmented data and database limitations, underscoring the difficulty in accessing critical genetic information. To address this challenge, we manually reviewed the literature, pinpointing 3089 single-nucleotide variants and 72 insertions and deletions in 579 genes associated with 1299 diseases from 2069 studies, and integrated these with the 3.5 million predicted GOF variants. Our approach is complemented by a proprietary scoring system that prioritizes GOF variants on the basis of the evidence supporting their GOF effects and provides predictive scores for variants that lack existing documentation. We then developed a database named GoFCards for general geneticists and clinicians to easily obtain GOF variants in humans (http://www.genemed.tech/gofcards). This database also contains data from >150 sources and offers comprehensive variant-level and gene-level annotations, with the aim of providing users with convenient access to detailed and relevant genetic information. Furthermore, GoFCards empowers users with limited bioinformatic skills to analyze and annotate genetic data, and prioritize GOF variants. GoFCards offers an efficient platform for interpreting GOF variants and thereby advancing genetic research.
ClinVar: updates to support classifications of both germline and somatic variants
Authors: Landrum Melissa J , Chitipiralla Shanmuga , Kaur Kuljeet , Brown Garth , Chen Chao , Hart Jennifer , Hoffman Douglas , Jang Wonhee , Liu Chunlei , Maddipatla Zenith , Maiti Rama , Mitchell Joseph , Rezaie Tayebeh , Riley George , Song Guangfeng , Yang Jinpeng , Ziyabari Lora , Russette Andrew , Kattman Brandi L
Published: November 2024

ClinVar (www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/clinvar/) is a free, public database of human genetic variants and their relationships to disease, with >3 million variants submitted by >2800 organizations across the world. The database was recently updated to have three types of classifications: germline, oncogenicity and clinical impact for somatic variants. As for germline variants, classifications for somatic variants can be submitted in batches in a file submission or through the submission API; variants can also be submitted and updated one at a time in online submission forms. The ClinVar XML files were redesigned to allow multiple classification types. Both old and new formats of the XML are supported through the end of 2024. Data for somatic classifications were also added to the ClinVar VCF files and to several tab-delimited files. The ClinVar VCV pages were updated to display the three types of classifications, both as it was submitted and as it was aggregated by ClinVar. Clinical testing laboratories and others in the cancer community are invited to share their classifications of somatic variant classifications through ClinVar to provide transparency in genomic testing and improve patient care.
Dynamic contrast-enhanced and diffusion-weighted MR imaging for predicting tumor growth of sporadic vestibular schwannomas: A prospective study
Authors: Schouten Sammy M , Lewis Daniel , Cornelissen Stefan , Li Ka-Loh , Zhu Xiaoping , Maas Marnix C , Pegge Sjoert , Jansen Thijs T G , Mulder Jef J S , Waterval Jérôme J , Postma Alida A , Pathmanaban Omar , Coope David J , Derks Jolanda M M , Langenhuizen Patrick P J H , King Andrew T , Verheul Jeroen B , Kunst Henricus P M
Published: November 2024

Background

Advanced MR imaging, such as diffusion-weighted (DWI) and dynamic contrast-enhanced (DCE) imaging, may provide valuable noninvasive information on intrinsic tumor biology. This study aims to evaluate apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) and DCE-MRI-derived microvascular parameter values (Ktrans, ve, and vp) as potential imaging predictors for future sporadic vestibular schwannoma (VS) growth.

Methods

In this prospective cohort study, patients with newly diagnosed unilateral sporadic VS and an initial wait-and-scan strategy were enrolled between January 2021 and January 2023. Patients underwent a single timepoint comprehensive MRI protocol, including DWI and DCE-MRI sequences. The estimated values of ADC, Ktrans, ve, and vp were calculated using established pipelines on a voxelwise basis within the delineated tumor region of interest. Associations of the estimated parameter values with volumetric growth were evaluated in uni- and multivariable logistic regression and survival analyses.

Results

Of the 110 analyzed patients, 70 (64%) exhibited growth during follow-up. A significant correlation was primarily observed between the DCE-MRI-derived parameters and VS growth. The combination of mean Ktrans (P < .001) and ve (P < .001) tumor values provided an internally validated model with an AUC of 0.85 for growth, yielding a sensitivity of 89% and specificity of 73% at the optimized cutoff value. Only the mean ADC values were found to be significantly higher in shrinking tumors (P = .04).

Conclusions

The strongly significant correlation observed between VS growth and Ktrans and ve tumor values indicate the great potential of the noninvasive DCE-MRI for individualized VS management in clinical practice. External validation is needed to further substantiate these findings.
Risk analysis of radiosurgery for vestibular schwannoma: Systematic review and comparative study of 10-year outcomes
Authors: Guy Kevin M , Pace April A , Tsang Derek S , Volsky Peter G
Published: November 2024

Background

Determine the benefit of stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) compared to no treatment for sporadic vestibular schwannoma (VS) by calculating epidemiologic risk using 10-year data; apply the analysis to VS that have demonstrated linear growth.

Methods

PubMed, Google Scholar, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library are systematically reviewed for VS tumor control 10 years after SRS and compared to a historical cohort of untreated VS (primary risk analysis). Subgroups of VS limited by size and observed growth are compared to the untreated cohort (secondary analysis).

Results

Twenty-four studies of 4079 SRS-treated VS exhibited tumor control in 90.93% (87.0%–100%; SD 4.1%), while 1959 untreated VS exhibited control in 65.24%. SRS reduces the absolute risk (ARR) of tumor progression by 25.7% compared to no treatment. The number needed to treat (NNT) is 4 (3.892, 95% CI: 3.619–4.210). Subgroup analyses of (1) VS with definite linear growth before SRS result in a similar ARR of 29.4% and NNT 4 (3.395, 95% CI: 2.966–3.968), and (2) Koos 1 VS result in lower ARR 18.31% and higher NNT 6 (5.209; 95% CI: 4.018–7.401).

Conclusions

This “best-available” case–control study of 10-year data reveals that ARR and NNT are similar for VS with and without definite pretreatment linear growth. These comparisons may be applied to CPA diameters less than 2 cm. Results for Koos 1 tumors are different. This analysis quantifies the therapeutic benefit of SRS by comparative risk analysis. The level of evidence on this topic is low.
Single-shot simultaneous intensity, phase, and polarization imaging with metasurface
Authors: Bao Yanjun , Li Baojun
Published: November 2024

Optical imaging of the intensity, phase and polarization distributions of optical field is fundamental to numerous applications. Traditional methods rely on bulky optical components and require multiple measurements. Recently, metasurface-based (MS-based) imaging strategies have emerged as a promising solution to address these challenges. However, they have been primarily limited to capturing partial information of the three parameters, tailored to specific optical fields, which poses challenges when addressing with arbitrary field distributions and achieving three-parameter imaging. In this study, we introduce a MS-based approach for single-shot optical imaging that simultaneously captures all the three parameters of optical fields with arbitrary intensity, phase, and polarization distributions. We experimentally validate the versatility of our method by conducting imaging of various types of optical fields with arbitrary well-defined distributions. The strategy presented in our work is expected to open up promising avenues for diverse applications, including imaging, optical communications, and beyond.
Design and fabrication of 1D nanomaterials for electromagnetic wave absorption
Authors: Jin Hongdu , Liu Min , Wang Lei , You Wenbin , Pei Ke , Cheng Han-Wen , Che Renchao
Published: November 2024

The design and fabrication of high-performance electromagnetic wave (EMW) absorbing materials are essential in developing electronic communication technology for defense and civilian applications. These materials function by interacting with EMWs, creating various effects such as polarization relaxation, magnetic resonance, and magnetic hysteresis in order to absorb EMWs. Significant progress has been made to improve the dimensional performance of such materials, emphasizing the ‘thin, light, broad, and strong’ functional specifications. One-dimensional (1D) nanostructures are characterized by high surface area, low density, and unique electromagnetic properties, providing promising solutions to address some of the challenges in facilitating multiple reflections and wideband resonances, which are crucial for effective EMW attenuation. This paper provides an overview of recent advances in exploring 1D structures for enhancing EMW absorption and their controllability. The design and fabrication of nanofibers, nanowires, and other 1D nanostructures are highlighted. The advantages of 1D nanomaterials in EMW absorption are also described. Challenges and future directions are discussed, focusing on developing new design concepts and fabrication methods for achieving high-performance and lightweight EMW absorbers and enhancing fundamental understanding of EMW absorption mechanisms.
A soft, ultra-tough and multifunctional artificial muscle for volumetric muscle loss treatment
Authors: Qiu Peng-Fei , Qiang Lei , Kong Weiqing , Wang Fang-Zhou , Wang Hong-Qin , Hou Ke-Xin , Liu Yihao , Li Cheng-Hui , Zheng Pengfei
Published: November 2024

The escalating prevalence of skeletal muscle disorders highlights the critical need for innovative treatments for severe injuries such as volumetric muscle loss. Traditional treatments, such as autologous transplants, are constrained by limited availability and current scaffolds often fail to meet complex clinical needs. This study introduces a new approach to volumetric muscle loss treatment by using a shape-memory polymer (SMP) based on block copolymers of perfluoropolyether and polycaprolactone diol. This SMP mimics the biomechanical properties of natural muscle, exhibiting a low elastic modulus (2–6 MPa), high tensile strength (72.67 ± 3.19 MPa), exceptional toughness (742.02 ± 23.98 MJ m−3) and superior biocompatibility, thereby enhancing skeletal muscle tissue integration and regeneration within 4 weeks. Moreover, the polymer's shape-memory behavior and ability to lift >5000 times its weight showcase significant potential in both severe muscle disorder treatment and prosthetic applications, surpassing existing scaffold technologies. This advancement marks a pivotal step in the development of artificial muscles for clinical use.
Concentration of income and human development: the role of the middle class
Authors: Castells-Quintana David , Gradín Carlos , Royuela Vicente
Published: November 2024

In this article, we reassess the relationship between inequality and human development, focusing on the differential role of concentration of income at different parts of the distribution. To do so, we rely on a large global panel of countries over the last decades including information on economic and human development, as well as detailed information on the distribution of income within countries. We show how the concentration of income at the bottom and top, rather than overall inequality, is negatively associated with human development. This result highlights the relevance of income shares that go to the middle part of the income distribution and seems especially important in what refers to human capital accumulation in middle- and low-income countries, and health in high-income countries. Our main results remain significant under different specifications and estimation techniques and after controlling for several country-specific characteristics, including the quality of institutions.
Evidence for the benefits of lifestyle medicine interventions in breast cancer survivorship
Authors: Wright Laura E , Sudheendra Preeti K
Published: November 2024

There are currently 4 million breast cancer survivors in the United States, and this number is expected to substantially increase in the decades to come. Breast cancer survivors experience treatment- and cancer-related debility, stress, and isolation that exceed rates in the general population. This review provides evidence for survival and quality of life benefits in patients living with breast cancer with the implementation of the 6 pillars of lifestyle medicine, which include physical activity, nutrition, social connection, adequate sleep, stress management, and avoidance of toxic substances. Overwhelmingly, lifestyle modifications and support of psychosocial health improve survival and quality of life in patients living with breast cancer. Data presented here suggest that patients living with breast cancer would benefit from a comprehensive lifestyle medicine approach to survivorship and formal implementation of such programs could significantly impact cancer mortality and morbidity.
Implicit Black identification among White non-Hispanic respondents and support for Black reparations
Authors: Craemer Thomas
Published: November 2024

Theories of self-interest and ingroup-favouritism dominate Western thought. They give Black reparations in the US little chance of electoral success while African Americans remain a minority. Could Black reparations become feasible despite this limitation? I propose ‘relational identity theory’, a combination of Simon’s (1993) utility theory as well as Aron and Aron’s (1986) self-expansion theory, as an alternative to theories of self-interest and ingroup-favouritism. The theory allows for the inclusion of an outgroup in the self-concept. An online reaction-time procedure (n = 1,341) suggests that among White non-Hispanic respondents, implicit Black identification is the strongest predictor of support for Black reparations. Pooled reaction-time data from three studies involving 1,594 White non-Hispanic respondents suggests that implicit Black identification is based on feelings of closeness, warmth, and empathic concern for African Americans resembling Black group attachment. Significant implicit Black identifiers among White non-Hispanic respondents fall between Black non-Hispanic and other White non-Hispanic respondents in their race-related political opinions. ‘Relational identity theory’ can help economists, political scientists, and psychologists explain how majority domination (e.g. slavery and Jim Crow in the United States) could be overcome despite the democratic principle of majority rule. The theory suggests that Black reparations might become politically feasible one day.
Middle-class attainment in young adulthood: higher education, student debt, and racial wealth inequality
Authors: Addo Fenaba R
Published: November 2024

For whom is higher education an engine of economic mobility? How should we value post-secondary education in a society with extreme wealth inequality and massive student loan debt? This study examines racial wealth inequality in young adulthood, its relationship with higher education, and what it means to be middle class. Also discussed, is how the racialization of student debt is intimately connected with the racial wealth gap and how policies, such as debt cancellation, may disrupt the association between wealth and higher education going forward and provide an opportunity to address the damages this relationship has created.
Algorithmic bias and racial inequality: a critical review
Authors: Kasy Maximilian
Published: November 2024

Most definitions of algorithmic bias and fairness encode decision-maker interests, such as profits, rather than the interests of disadvantaged groups (e.g. racial minorities): bias is defined as a deviation from profit maximization. Future research should instead focus on the causal effect of automated decisions on the distribution of welfare, both across and within groups. The literature emphasizes some apparent contradictions between different notions of fairness, and between fairness and profits. These contradictions vanish, however, when profits are maximized. Existing work involves conceptual slippages between statistical notions of bias and misclassification errors, economic notions of profit, and normative notions of bias and fairness. Notions of bias nonetheless carry some interest within the welfare paradigm that I advocate for, if we understand bias and discrimination as mechanisms and potential points of intervention.
Do ethnic minorities have incentives to omit photographs from résumés? Experimental evidence from Germany and the Netherlands
Authors: Fernández-Reino Mariña , Rovira Martí
Published: November 2024

Ethnic minority job-seekers may have incentives to include or omit photographs from résumés depending on the social norms regarding this practice and the extent to which their outward appearances diverge from the majority group. To investigate minorities’ incentives to engage in a specific type of résumé whitening––omitting photographs to avoid discrimination based on phenotypical traits or religious attire––we draw on data from an audit field experiment conducted between 2016 and 2018 in the Netherlands and Germany. Our analysis highlights the challenges for anticipating discrimination (and, thus, deciding to engage in résumé whitening) since it is difficult to predict employers’ true preferences with respect to the inclusion of photographs. In the Netherlands, unveiled Turkish women were better off submitting their picture rather than omitting it, but the premium associated with the inclusion of photographs disappeared if they wore the Muslim headscarf. For unveiled Moroccan women, there was no discernible advantage or disadvantage associated with the inclusion of pictures in job applications. In contrast, in the German context, minority women with high prototypical appearance (brown phenotype or wearing the Muslim headscarf) would have incentives to omit their photographs from job applications, particularly if they wore the Muslim headscarf. For Moroccan and Turkish men in the two countries, the inclusion of pictures with different phenotypes does not affect employers’ responses. To conclude, we explore the advantages and disadvantages of blind recruitment policies (i.e. omitting all ethnic identifying cues from résumés, including photographs and names) in the European context.
Caste disparities and affirmative action in India
Authors: Deshpande Ashwini , Ramachandran Rajesh
Published: November 2024

This paper uses data from the National Family and Health Survey (NFHS) for India for 2019–21 to present estimates of contemporary caste gaps in education, occupational distribution, and wealth between three broad groups: Scheduled Castes–Scheduled Tribes (SC–ST), Other Backward Classes (OBCs), and Others, the latter being a proxy for higher-ranked castes and communities. We find the caste gaps continue to be significant, indicating the persistence of the traditional caste hierarchy. We then assess how these gaps have evolved since the previous round of NFHS (2015–16). We find convergence in asset ownership between OBCs and Others. Finally, using a difference-in-differences estimator, we identify the direct impact of the extension of reservations in the arena of tertiary education in 2006 to the OBCs. We find a positive impact on the probability of acquiring tertiary education in the treated cohorts of OBCs.
Rice Reference Genes: redefining reference genes in rice by mining RNA-seq datasets
Authors: Liu Xin , Tang Siyuan , Gao Yingbo , Zhang Xiaoxiang , Dong Guichun , Zhou Juan , Zhou Yong , Yang Zefeng , Huang Jianye , Yao Youli
Published: November 2024

Reverse transcription quantitative real-time PCR (RT-qPCR) is esteemed for its precision and reliability, positioning it as the standard for evaluating gene expression. Selecting suitable reference genes is crucial for acquiring accurate data on target gene expression. However, identifying appropriate reference genes for specific rice tissues or growth conditions has been a challenge. To overcome this, we introduce the Rice Reference Genes (RRG) tool ( https://www.rrgenes.com/ ), which assists researchers in selecting reference genes for diverse experimental conditions in rice. This tool utilizes 4404 rice-derived RNA-seq datasets, categorized by five tissue types—leaf, root, seedling, panicle, and seed—and seven stress conditions (cold, disease, drought, heat, hormone, metal, and salt), along with corresponding control groups (mock). In this research, we employed the RRG web-based tool to identify candidate reference genes in rice leaves, roots, and seedlings exposed to salt and drought stress. These candidates were rigorously tested against conventionally established reference genes, confirming their accuracy and reliability. The RRG tool is designed to be user-friendly, allowing even those with limited experience to efficiently select optimal reference genes in rice with ease.
The RALF1 peptide-FERONIA complex phosphorylates the endosomal sorting protein FREE1 to attenuate abscisic acid signaling
Authors: Fu Qiong , Li Hongbo , Wang Bingqian , Chen Weijun , Wu Dousheng , Gao Caiji , Yu Feng
Published: November 2024

The receptor-like kinase FERONIA (FER), together with its ligand rapid alkalinization factor 1 (RALF1) peptide, plays a crucial role in regulating stress responses, including its involvement in modulating abscisic acid (ABA) signaling. FER has been shown to activate ABA insensitive 2 in the cytoplasm, leading to the suppression of ABA signaling. However, its regulation of nucleus events in the ABA response remains unclear. FREE1, identified as a plant-specific component of the endosomal sorting complex required for transport in eukaryotes, serves as an important negative regulator in ABA signaling. In this study, we elucidate that upon RALF1 treatment, FER phosphorylates FREE1, promoting the accumulation of FREE1 protein in the nucleus in Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana). Consequently, FREE1 suppresses ABA sensitivity by inhibiting the expression of ABA-response genes. Mutating the 6 identified phosphorylation sites on FREE1, mediated by FER, to nonphosphorylable residues results in reduced nucleus localization of FREE1 and increased hypersensitivity to ABA. Our data also show that these 6 phosphorylation sites are likely involved in regulating plant survival under salt stress. Collectively, our study not only unveils an additional function of FER in attenuating ABA signaling in the nucleus but also provides a possible insight into the role of the RALF1-FER-FREE1 module in coordinating plant growth and salt stress tolerance.
The receptor MIK2 interacts with the kinase RKS1 to control quantitative disease resistance to Xanthomonas campestris
Authors: Delplace Florent , Huard-Chauveau Carine , Roux Fabrice , Roby Dominique
Published: November 2024

Molecular mechanisms underlying qualitative resistance have been intensively studied. In contrast, although quantitative disease resistance (QDR) is a common, durable, and broad-spectrum form of immune responses in plants, only a few related functional analyses have been reported. The atypical kinase Resistance related kinase 1 (RKS1) is a major regulator of QDR to the bacterial pathogen Xanthomonas campestris (Xcc) and is positioned in a robust protein–protein decentralized network in Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana). Among the putative interactors of RKS1 found by yeast two-hybrid screening, we identified the receptor-like kinase MDIS1-interacting receptor-like kinase 2 (MIK2). Here, using multiple complementary strategies including protein–protein interaction tests, mutant analysis, and network reconstruction, we report that MIK2 is a component of RKS1-mediated QDR to Xcc. First, by co-localization experiments, co-immunoprecipitation (Co-IP), and bimolecular fluorescence complementation, we validated the physical interaction between RKS1 and MIK2 at the plasma membrane. Using mik2 mutants, we showed that MIK2 is required for QDR and contributes to resistance to the same level as RKS1. Interestingly, a catalytic mutant of MIK2 interacted with RKS1 but was unable to fully complement the mik2-1 mutant phenotype in response to Xcc. Finally, we investigated the potential role of the MIK2–RKS1 complex as a scaffolding component for the coordination of perception events by constructing a RKS1–MIK2 centered protein–protein interaction network. Eight mutants corresponding to seven RKs in this network showed a strong alteration in QDR to Xcc. Our findings provide insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying the perception events involved in QDR to Xcc.
Seductive emails, dangerous consequences: how predatory journals, conferences, and publishers target early-career researchers
Authors: Rajakumar Hamrish Kumar
Published: November 2024

Background

In recent years, early-career researchers and medical students have become targets of predatory publishers and conference organizers. These groups exploit the pressure to publish and gain recognition. They often offer tempting opportunities, such as fast publication, free travel, and prestigious positions. However, these offers often hide a profit-driven agenda. They lack academic integrity. Many of these events have little or no peer review. The impact metrics they claim are often inflated, and event details are vague.

Objective

This paper aims to highlight the rise of predatory journals and conferences. It focuses on the harmful effects these organizations have on young researchers. We will identify the tactics they use. We will also point out key red flags. The goal is to help researchers, particularly medical students, understand how to navigate academic publishing and protect their careers.

Conclusion

Predatory publishers and conferences pose a growing threat to academic integrity. Young researchers are especially vulnerable to these deceptive practices. It is important for academics to recognize warning signs. They should focus on quality over quantity when publishing. Educating the next generation of researchers is essential for preserving academic credibility.
Scattering of Transverse Electric and Transverse Magnetic Waves and Quantum Dynamics Generated by non-Hermitian Hamiltonians
Authors: Loran Farhang , Mostafazadeh Ali
Published: November 2024

The study of the scattering of electromagnetic waves by a linear isotropic medium with planar symmetry can be reduced to that of their transverse electric (TE) and transverse magnetic (TM) modes. For situations where the medium consists of parallel homogeneous slabs, one may use the standard transfer matrix technique to address the scattering problem for these modes. We extend the utility of this technique to inhomogeneous permittivity and permeability profiles by proposing a dynamical formulation of the scattering of TE and TM waves in which the transfer matrix for the medium is given in terms of the evolution operator for an effective nonunitary quantum system. This leads to a system of dynamical equations for the reflection and transmission amplitudes. Decoupling these equations, we reduce the solution of the scattering problem for TE and TM modes to that of an initial-value problem for a Riccati equation. We discuss the application of this observation in identifying media that do not reflect TE or TM waves with a given wavenumber and incidence angle.
Understanding the social and political dimensions of research(er) assessment: evaluative flexibility and hidden criteria in promotion processes at research institutes
Authors: Ross-Hellauer Tony , Aubert Bonn Noémie , Horbach Serge P J M
Published: November 2024

Debates about appropriate, fair and effective ways of assessing research and researchers have raged through the scientific community for decades, recently mostly concerned with discussing the merits and limitations of metric-based, quantitative assessments versus peer review-based, qualitative alternatives. Ample attention has been paid to formal assessment criteria, building to a consensus that less emphasis should be placed on quantification, while supporting open and diverse sets of criteria. Yet the theory and evidence upon which such policy reform depends is still surprisingly sparse. Based on qualitative free-text responses from 121 respondents gathered during an international survey of active researchers, this study examines researchers’ perspectives on how criteria are applied in practice and how those being assessed perceive informal criteria to determine the outcomes of assessments. While confirming the general critique on over-emphasizing quantification, respondents particularly identify a mismatch between formal criteria and actual evaluation practices. Hidden criteria, including social, political, and demographic factors, are perceived important, especially in intransparent assessment procedures, opening up for assessors’ evaluative flexibility. This adds to ongoing discussions on the performativity of assessment criteria and lays bare a tension between the rigidity and flexibility of criteria and the extent to which these can be transparently communicated.
Tired and out of control? Effects of total and partial sleep deprivation on response inhibition under threat and no-threat conditions
Authors: Nieuwenhuys Arne , Wadsley Corey G , Sullivan Robyn , Cirillo John , Byblow Winston D
Published: November 2024

Study Objectives

Sleep deprivation may impair top-down inhibitory control over emotional responses (e.g. under threat). The current study examined the behavioral consequences of this phenomenon and manipulated the magnitude of individuals’ sleep deficit to determine effect thresholds.

Methods

Twenty-four healthy human participants were provided with 0, 2, 4, and 8 hours of sleep opportunity and, subsequently, performed a bimanual anticipatory response inhibition task under threat and no-threat conditions. Behavioral responses (button presses) and surface electromyography (EMG) from task effectors were collected to examine going and stopping processes.

Results

Bayesian analyses revealed that compared to 8 hours of sleep, go-trial accuracy was reduced with 0 hours of sleep. Stopping speed was reduced with 0 and 2 hours of sleep, as evidenced by longer stop-signal delays, but only in a selective stopping context. None of the outcome measures were impacted by 4 hours of sleep. Under threat, go-trial accuracy was maintained, while responses were slightly delayed and characterized by amplified EMG bursts. Stopping speed was increased under threat across both stop-all and selective stopping contexts. No evidence was observed for interactions between sleep and threat.

Conclusions

Sleep deprivation negatively affected response inhibition in a selective stopping context, with stopping speed reduced following a single night of ≤2 hours of sleep. Performance-contingent threat improved response inhibition, possibly due to a prioritizing of stopping. No evidence was observed for increased threat-related responses after sleep deprivation, suggesting that sleep deprivation and threat may impact inhibitory control via independent mechanisms.
Pregnancy-onset obstructive sleep apnea and ambulatory blood pressure
Authors: Sanapo Laura , Raker Christina , Merhi Basma , Guillen Melissa , Avalos Ashanti , Aldana Annaly , Bublitz Margaret , Bai Alice , Bourjeily Ghada
Published: November 2024

Study Objective

Elevated nocturnal blood pressure (BP) increases the risk for hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP). Though obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) increases the risk for HDP, data on OSA, and 24-hour ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM) in pregnancy are scarce. We aim to examine the BP profile of women with pregnancy-onset OSA.

Methods

Pregnant women with overweight/obesity and snoring were recruited at <13 weeks gestation and underwent level III home sleep apnea testing and 24-hour ABPM at enrollment and at 31–34 weeks’ gestation. Women with OSA at enrollment were excluded. Mean differences in nocturnal BP and 24-hour BP measurements, between women with pregnancy-onset OSA and women without OSA, were computed by multivariable linear regression.

Results

Participants (40/101) had pregnancy-onset OSA (respiratory event index (REI) ≥5 events per hour) in the third trimester. Despite no significant differences in baseline BP, nocturnal systolic and diastolic BP were significantly higher in women with pregnancy-onset OSA compared to women without OSA, after adjusting for multiple covariates (mean difference 5.49 (1.45–9.52) and 3.89 (0.19–7.60), respectively). Differences in systolic BP persisted into the daytime in the OSA group. Lack of nocturnal dipping was highly prevalent in both groups, but the difference was not significant in the adjusted model.

Conclusions

Pregnancy-onset OSA in the 3rd trimester is associated with elevated nocturnal BP and daytime systolic BP. The lack of nocturnal dipping irrespective of REI cut-off in pregnant women at risk for SDB further demonstrates the limitations of REI in defining pathology in pregnancy.
Lead exposure at the feto-maternal interface: a cause for concern for fetal membrane trophoblasts
Authors: Flores-Espinosa Pilar , Menon Ramkumar , Kammala Ananth , Richardson Lauren S
Published: November 2024

The integrity of fetal membranes enables biological functions that protect the fetus and maintain the pregnancy. Any compromise in fetal membrane function can predispose a pregnant woman to prelabor rupture of the membranes (pPROMs) and subsequently to preterm birth (PTB). Epidemiologic data suggest that lead exposure during pregnancy is one of several risk factors associated with PTB and pPROM. This heavy metal can cross placental and fetal membrane barriers, disrupting homeostasis in these tissues. Autophagy contributes to the maintenance of fetal membrane homeostasis during gestation, and dysfunctional autophagy is associated with pPROM. In this study, we determined the mechanistic impact of lead-induced cellular changes, autophagy, senescence, and inflammation in chorion trophoblast cells (CTCs) and amnion epithelial cells (AECs) of the fetal membranes. Lead exposure in CTCs induced autophagy dysfunction (increase in LC3B-II), augmented senescence (increased SA-β-galactosidase activity), and increased the release of inflammation. In AECs, lead exposure did effect autophagy, senescence, nor inflammation. The differential changes observed in CTCs and AECs after exposure to high lead concentrations may promote the weakening of fetal membranes and contribute to preterm rupture.
Deep Trade Agreements and FDI in Partial and General Equilibrium: A Structural Estimation Framework
Authors: Larch Mario , Yotov Yoto V
Published: November 2024

This paper quantifies the relationships between deep trade agreements and foreign direct investment (FDI). The analysis relies on a structural framework that simultaneously enables (a) estimating the direct impact of deep trade agreements on FDI, (b) translating the partial deep trade agreement estimates into general equilibrium effects on FDI, and (c) obtaining partial deep trade agreement effects on trade and quantifying the impact of deep trade agreements on FDI through trade. The effects of deep trade agreements on both trade and FDI are sizeable, positive, and statistically significant. A counterfactual analysis suggests that together with direct and indirect channels deep trade agreements have contributed to a large but asymmetric increase in inward versus outward FDI.