bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fourier optimization and Montgomery’s pair correlation conjecture
Authors: Carneiro Emanuel , Milinovich Micah , Ramos Antonio Pedro
Published: May 2024

Assuming the Riemann hypothesis, we improve the current upper and lower bounds for the average value of Montgomery’s function

F
(
α
,
T
)

F(\alpha , T)

over long intervals by means of a Fourier optimization framework. The function

F
(
α
,
T
)

F(\alpha , T)

is often used to study the pair correlation of the non-trivial zeros of the Riemann zeta-function. Two ideas play a central role in our approach: (i) the introduction of new averaging mechanisms in our conceptual framework and (ii) the full use of the class of test functions introduced by Cohn and Elkies for the sphere packing bounds, going beyond the usual class of bandlimited functions. We conclude that such an average value, that is conjectured to be

1
1

, lies between

0.9303
0.9303

and

1.3208
1.3208

. Our Fourier optimization framework also yields an improvement on the current bounds for the analogous problem concerning the non-trivial zeros in the family of Dirichlet

L
L

-functions.
A short note on 𝜋₁(𝐷𝑖𝑓𝑓_{∂}𝐷^{4𝑘}) for 𝑘≥3
Authors: Wang Wei
Published: May 2024

Let

Diff

∂

⁡
(

D

n

)

\operatorname {Diff}_{\partial }(D^{n})

be the topological group of diffeomorphisms of

D

n

D^{n}

which agree with the identity near the boundary. In this short note, we compute the fundamental group

π
1

Diff

∂

⁡
(

D

4
k

)

\pi _1 \operatorname {Diff}_{\partial }(D^{4k})

for

k
≥
3

k\geq 3

.
On invariant generating sets for the cycle space
Authors: Timár Ádám
Published: May 2024

Consider a unimodular random graph, or just a finitely generated Cayley graph. When does its cycle space have an invariant random generating set of cycles such that every edge is contained in finitely many of the cycles? Generating the free Loop

O
(
1
)

O(1)

model as a factor of iid is closely connected to having such a generating set for FK-Ising cluster. We show that geodesic cycles do not always form such a generating set, by showing for a parameter regime of the FK-Ising model on the lamplighter group the origin is contained in infinitely many geodesic cycles. This answers a question by Angel, Ray and Spinka. Then we take a look at how the property of having an invariant locally finite generating set for the cycle space is preserved by Bernoulli percolation, and apply it to the problem of factor of iid presentations of the free Loop

O
(
1
)

O(1)

model.
Improved global well-posedness for the quartic Korteweg-de Vries equation
Authors: Correia Simão
Published: May 2024

We prove that the quartic Korteweg-de Vries equation is globally well-posed for real-valued initial data in

H
s

(

R

)

H^s(\mathbb {R})

,

s
>
−
1

/

24

s>-1/24

.
The growth recurrence and Gelfand-Kirillov base of the ordinary cusp
Authors: Dills Alan , Enescu Florian
Published: May 2024

We introduce the Gelfand-Kirillov base for a numerical semigroup ring over the prime field of characteristic

p
p

, where

p
p

is prime, and show its existence for the semigroup ring of the ordinary cusp by establishing a growth recurrence with respect to Frobenius.
Endomorphisms of mapping tori
Authors: Neofytidis Christoforos
Published: May 2024

We classify in terms of Hopf-type properties mapping tori of residually finite Poincaré Duality groups with non-zero Euler characteristic. This generalises and gives a new proof of the analogous classification for fibered 3-manifolds. Various applications are given. In particular, we deduce that rigidity results for Gromov hyperbolic groups hold for the above mapping tori with trivial center.
Harmonizing tumor mutational burden analysis: Insights from a multicenter study using in silico reference data sets in clinical whole-exome sequencing (WES)
Authors: Yu Lijia , Zhang Yuanfeng , Wang Duo , Li Lin , Zhang Rui , Li Jinming
Published: May 2024

Objectives

Tumor mutational burden (TMB) is a significant biomarker for predicting immune checkpoint inhibitor response, but the clinical performance of whole-exome sequencing (WES)–based TMB estimation has received less attention compared to panel-based methods. This study aimed to assess the reliability and comparability of WES-based TMB analysis among laboratories under routine testing conditions.

Methods

A multicenter study was conducted involving 24 laboratories in China using in silico reference data sets. The accuracy and comparability of TMB estimation were evaluated using matched tumor-normal data sets. Factors such as accuracy of variant calls, limit of detection (LOD) of WES test, size of regions of interest (ROIs) used for TMB calculation, and TMB cutoff points were analyzed.

Results

The laboratories consistently underestimated the expected TMB scores in matched tumor-normal samples, with only 50% falling within the ±30% TMB interval. Samples with low TMB score (<2.5) received the consensus interpretation. Accuracy of variant calls, LOD of the WES test, ROI, and TMB cutoff points were important factors causing interlaboratory deviations.

Conclusions

This study highlights real-world challenges in WES-based TMB analysis that need to be improved and optimized. This research will aid in the selection of more reasonable analytical procedures to minimize potential methodologic biases in estimating TMB in clinical exome sequencing tests. Harmonizing TMB estimation in clinical testing conditions is crucial for accurately evaluating patients’ response to immunotherapy.
Divergent effects of olfactory receptors on transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 activation by capsaicin and eugenol
Authors: Moriyama Sakura , Takita Yukie , Hinuma Shuji , Kuroda Shun'ichi
Published: May 2024

We analyzed the effects of olfactory receptors (ORs) on transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) activation using HEK293T cells co-expressing TRPV1 and OR51E1. We demonstrate here that the effect of OR51E1 on TRPV1 activation varies depending on the two TRPV1 ligands: capsaicin and eugenol. Notably, both of these ligands are vanilloid analogs. OR51E1 enhanced the response of TRPV1 to capsaicin but diminished that to eugenol. OR51E2 also showed similar effects. Based on the susceptibility to the OR's modulatory effects, various TRPV1 ligands could be classified into capsaicin and eugenol types. Activation of OR51E1 enhanced cAMP production. In addition, forskolin exhibited almost identical effects as ORs on TRPV1 responses to both types of ligands. These results suggest that OR51E1-induced cAMP elevation leads to a modification of TRPV1, presumably phosphorylation of TRPV1, which amplifies the susceptibility of TRPV1 to the two types of ligands differently.
BindingSiteDTI: differential-scale binding site modelling for drug–target interaction prediction
Authors: Pan Feng , Yin Chong , Liu Si-Qi , Huang Tao , Bian Zhaoxiang , Yuen Pong Chi
Published: May 2024

Motivation

Enhanced by contemporary computational advances, the prediction of drug–target interactions (DTIs) has become crucial in developing de novo and effective drugs. Existing deep learning approaches to DTI prediction are frequently beleaguered by a tendency to overfit specific molecular representations, which significantly impedes their predictive reliability and utility in novel drug discovery contexts. Furthermore, existing DTI networks often disregard the molecular size variance between macro molecules (targets) and micro molecules (drugs) by treating them at an equivalent scale that undermines the accurate elucidation of their interaction.

Results

We propose a novel DTI network with a differential-scale scheme to model the binding site for enhancing DTI prediction, which is named as BindingSiteDTI. It explicitly extracts multiscale substructures from targets with different scales of molecular size and fixed-scale substructures from drugs, facilitating the identification of structurally similar substructural tokens, and models the concealed relationships at the substructural level to construct interaction feature. Experiments conducted on popular benchmarks, including DUD-E, human, and BindingDB, shown that BindingSiteDTI contains significant improvements compared with recent DTI prediction methods.

Availability and implementation

The source code of BindingSiteDTI can be accessed at https://github.com/MagicPF/BindingSiteDTI.
Artificial intelligence-based tools with automated segmentation and measurement on CT images to assist accurate and fast diagnosis in acute pancreatitis
Authors: Pan Xuhang , Jiao Kaijian , Li Xinyu , Feng Linshuang , Tian Yige , Wu Lei , Zhang Peng , Wang Kejun , Chen Suping , Yang Bo , Chen Wen
Published: May 2024

Objectives

To develop an artificial intelligence (AI) tool with automated pancreas segmentation and measurement of pancreatic morphological information on CT images to assist improved and faster diagnosis in acute pancreatitis.

Methods

This study retrospectively contained 1124 patients suspected for AP and received non-contrast and enhanced abdominal CT examination between September 2013 and September 2022. Patients were divided into training (N = 688), validation (N = 145), testing dataset [N = 291; N = 104 for normal pancreas, N = 98 for AP, N = 89 for AP complicated with PDAC (AP&PDAC)]. A model based on convolutional neural network (MSAnet) was developed. The pancreas segmentation and measurement were performed via eight open-source models and MSAnet based tools, and the efficacy was evaluated using dice similarity coefficient (DSC) and intersection over union (IoU). The DSC and IoU for patients with different ages were also compared. The outline of tumour and oedema in the AP and were segmented by clustering. The diagnostic efficacy for radiologists with or without the assistance of MSAnet tool in AP and AP&PDAC was evaluated using receiver operation curve and confusion matrix.

Results

Among all models, MSAnet based tool showed best performance on the training and validation dataset, and had high efficacy on testing dataset. The performance was age-affected. With assistance of the AI tool, the diagnosis time was significantly shortened by 26.8% and 32.7% for junior and senior radiologists, respectively. The area under curve (AUC) in diagnosis of AP was improved from 0.91 to 0.96 for junior radiologist and 0.98 to 0.99 for senior radiologist. In AP&PDAC diagnosis, AUC was increased from 0.85 to 0.92 for junior and 0.97 to 0.99 for senior.

Conclusion

MSAnet based tools showed good pancreas segmentation and measurement performance, which help radiologists improve diagnosis efficacy and workflow in both AP and AP with PDAC conditions.

Advances in knowledge

This study developed an AI tool with automated pancreas segmentation and measurement and provided evidence for AI tool assistance in improving the workflow and accuracy of AP diagnosis.
Are survival outcomes dependent on the tumour dose threshold of 139 Gy in patients with chemorefractory metastatic colorectal cancer treated with yttrium-90 radioembolization using glass particles? A real-world single-centre study
Authors: Topcuoglu Osman Melih , Orhan Tolga , Gormez Ayşegul , Alan Nalan
Published: May 2024

Objectives

To compare the survival and objective response rate (ORR) of the patients receiving estimated tumour absorbed dose (ETAD) <140 Gy versus ETAD ≥140 Gy in patients with advanced chemorefractory colorectal carcinoma liver metastases (CRCLM) treated with yttrium-90 transarterial radioembolization (90Y TARE).

Methods

Between August 2016 and August 2023 adult patients with unresectable, chemorefractory CRCLM treated with 90Y TARE using glass particles, were retrospectively enrolled. Primary outcomes were overall survival (OS) and hepatic progression free survival (hPFS). Secondary outcome was ORR.

Results

A total of 40 patients with a mean age of 66.2 ± 7.8 years met the inclusion criteria. Mean ETAD for group 1 (ETAD <140 Gy) and group 2 (ETAD ≥140) were 131.2 ± 17.4 Gy versus 195 ± 45.6 Gy, respectively. The mean OS and hPFS for group 1 versus group 2 were 12 ± 10.3 months and 8.1 ± 9.3 months versus 9.3 ± 3 months and 7.1 ± 8.4 months, respectively and there were no significant differences (P = .181 and P = .366, respectively). ORR did not show significant difference between the groups (P = .432).

Conclusion

In real-world practice, no significant difference was found in OS, hPFS, and ORR between patients who received ETAD <140 Gy versus ETAD ≥140 Gy in patients with CRCLM, in this series.

Advances in knowledge

This study demonstrated that increased tumour absorbed doses in radioembolization may not provide additional significant advantage for OS and hPFS for patients with CRCLM.
Pollination by birds, non-flying mammals, and European honeybees in a heathland shrub, Banksia catoglypta (Proteaceae)
Authors: Wawrzyczek Stanislaw K , Davis Robert A , Krauss Siegfried L , Hoebee Susan E , Ashton Louis M , Phillips Ryan D
Published: May 2024

Vertebrate pollination has evolved in many plant lineages, with pollination by birds the most prevalent strategy. However, in Banksia (Proteaceae) many species are visited by a combination of nectarivorous birds, non-flying mammals (NFMs), and insects, though the relative importance of these pollen vectors for reproduction remains poorly understood. Here, we investigate the contribution to fruit set of birds, NFMs, and insects in Banksia catoglypta—a heathland shrub from south-west Australia. This species flowers in winter and produces large, golden-yellow inflorescences that are typically presented near the ground and consist of rigid, strongly scented flowers with a long stigma-nectary distance—suggesting pollination by vertebrates. The primary floral visitors were white-cheeked honeyeaters (Phylidonyris niger), honey possums (Tarsipes rostratus), house mice (Mus musculus), and introduced European honeybees (Apis mellifera), all of which carried B. catoglypta pollen. Banksia catoglypta was found to be obligately outcrossing with no evidence of pollen limitation. Selective exclusion of flying pollinators revealed that inflorescences pollinated solely by NFMs produced 50% fewer fruit than open-pollinated controls. Therefore, while mammals are pollinators of B. catoglypta, they may contribute comparatively little to fruit set in some Banksia species displaying floral traits considered adaptations to NFM pollination. Exclusion of vertebrate pollinators had no effect on fruit set, demonstrating that European honeybees can be effective pollinators of some primarily vertebrate-pollinated plants.
A Certificateless Linearly Homomorphic Signature Scheme Based on Lattice for Network Coding
Authors: Dong Songshou , Yao Yanqing , Zhou Yihua , Yang Yuguang
Published: May 2024

Homomorphic signature is an extremely important public key authentication technique for network coding to defend against pollution attacks. However, there are many problems with previous homomorphic signature schemes which require key escrow, cannot resist malicious key generation center (KGC), and are insecure in the post-quantum era. Therefore, we propose a lattice-based certificateless linearly homomorphic signature scheme. In our scheme, certificateless structure can avoid key escrow and malicious KGC. The lattice structure ensures that our scheme is secure in the post-quantum era. The bimodal Gaussian distribution is used to improve the security and the efficiency. Compared with the previous schemes, our scheme has smaller storage space (no key escrow), can avoid malicious KGC, is more secure in the post-quantum era, and has higher signature efficiency. At the same time, our scheme is more suitable for network coding. Finally, under random oracle model, we proved that our scheme is weakly context hiding and existentially unforgeable against adaptive chosen message attacks against external attackers and the internal KGC.
Epigenetic and gene therapy in human and veterinary medicine
Authors: Bártová Eva
Published: May 2024

Gene therapy is a focus of interest in both human and veterinary medicine, especially in recent years due to the potential applications of CRISPR/Cas9 technology. Another relatively new approach is that of epigenetic therapy, which involves an intervention based on epigenetic marks, including DNA methylation, histone post-translational modifications, and post-transcription modifications of distinct RNAs. The epigenome results from enzymatic reactions, which regulate gene expression without altering DNA sequences. In contrast to conventional CRISP/Cas9 techniques, the recently established methodology of epigenetic editing mediated by the CRISPR/dCas9 system is designed to target specific genes without causing DNA breaks. Both natural epigenetic processes and epigenetic editing regulate gene expression and thereby contribute to maintaining the balance between physiological functions and pathophysiological states. From this perspective, knowledge of specific epigenetic marks has immense potential in both human and veterinary medicine. For instance, the use of epigenetic drugs (chemical compounds with therapeutic potential affecting the epigenome) seems to be promising for the treatment of cancer, metabolic, and infectious diseases. Also, there is evidence that an epigenetic diet (nutrition-like factors affecting epigenome) should be considered as part of a healthy lifestyle and could contribute to the prevention of pathophysiological processes. In summary, epigenetic-based approaches in human and veterinary medicine have increasing significance in targeting aberrant gene expression associated with various diseases. In this case, CRISPR/dCas9, epigenetic targeting, and some epigenetic nutrition factors could contribute to reversing an abnormal epigenetic landscape to a healthy physiological state.
Comparison of treatment effects between clear aligners and fixed appliances in patients treated with miniscrew-assisted molar distalization
Authors: Wang Yunlei , Zhou Shunquan , Zheng Jie , Yan Lin , Ngan Peter , Hua Fang , He Hong
Published: May 2024

Objectives

The biomechanics in achieving molar distalization may differ between fixed appliances and clear aligners in the control of tooth movement. The objective of this study was to compare the treatment effects between clear aligners (CA) and fixed appliances (FA) in patients treated with miniscrew-assisted molar distalization.

Methods

The sample consisted of 46 subjects with mild-to-moderate crowding. A total of 22 patients treated with clear aligners (age, 25.66 ± 6.11 years old) and 24 patients treated with fixed appliances (age, 24.04 ± 4.95 years old) for miniscrew-assisted molar distalization were included in this study. The dental and skeletal changes were evaluated by the pre- and post-treatment lateral cephalograms.

Results

Significant changes were found with the vertical variables SN-OP angle (2.24 ± 3.22°, P < .05) and SN-MP angle (0.73 ± 1.15°, P < .05) for the FA group when compared with the CA group (SN-OP angle 0.41 ± 2.26° and SN-MP angle −0.21 ± 1.38°, P > .05). Both treatment groups achieved a 2–3 mm. molar distalization with significant intrusion of the upper molars. The CA group showed significantly less distal tipping of molars (U6^PP angle −2.29 ± 3.29° and L6^MP angle −2.92 ± 2.49°, P < .05) compared to the FA group (−5.24 ± 4.28° and −5.53 ± 5.03°, P < .05). In addition, significant retraction and lingual inclination of the upper and lower incisors were found in both groups.

Limitations

The changes of tooth position were evaluated by 2D lateral cephalograms, not 3D measurements.

Conclusions

Compared to fixed appliances, clear aligners seemed to have better control of vertical dimension and distal tipping of molars in patients treated with miniscrew-assisted molar distalization.
Overcoming antibiotic resistance: non-thermal plasma and antibiotics combination inhibits important pathogens
Authors: Vaňková Eva , Julák Jaroslav , Machková Anna , Obrová Klára , Klančnik Anja , Smole Možina Sonja , Scholtz Vladimír
Published: May 2024

Antibiotic resistance (ATBR) is increasing every year as the overuse of antibiotics (ATBs) and the lack of newly emerging antimicrobial agents lead to an efficient pathogen escape from ATBs action. This trend is alarming and the World Health Organization warned in 2021 that ATBR could become the leading cause of death worldwide by 2050. The development of novel ATBs is not fast enough considering the situation, and alternative strategies are therefore urgently required. One such alternative may be the use of non-thermal plasma (NTP), a well-established antimicrobial agent actively used in a growing number of medical fields. Despite its efficiency, NTP alone is not always sufficient to completely eliminate pathogens. However, NTP combined with ATBs is more potent and evidence has been emerging over the last few years proving this is a robust and highly effective strategy to fight resistant pathogens. This minireview summarizes experimental research addressing the potential of the NTP-ATBs combination, particularly for inhibiting planktonic and biofilm growth and treating infections in mouse models caused by methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus or Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The published studies highlight this combination as a promising solution to emerging ATBR, and further research is therefore highly desirable.
TWISP: a transgenic worm for interrogating signal propagation in Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Sharma Anuj Kumar , Randi Francesco , Kumar Sandeep , Dvali Sophie , Leifer Andrew M
Published: May 2024

Genetically encoded optical indicators and actuators of neural activity allow for all-optical investigations of signaling in the nervous system. But commonly used indicators, actuators, and expression strategies are poorly suited for systematic measurements of signal propagation at brain scale and cellular resolution. Large-scale measurements of the brain require indicators and actuators with compatible excitation spectra to avoid optical crosstalk. They must be highly expressed in every neuron but at the same time avoid lethality and permit the animal to reach adulthood. Their expression must also be compatible with additional fluorescent labels to locate and identify neurons, such as those in the NeuroPAL cell identification system. We present TWISP, a transgenic worm for interrogating signal propagation, that addresses these needs and enables optical measurements of evoked calcium activity at brain scale and cellular resolution in the nervous system of the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans. In every neuron we express a nonconventional optical actuator, the gustatory receptor homolog GUR-3 + PRDX-2, under the control of a drug-inducible system QF + hGR, and a calcium indicator GCAMP6s, in a background with additional fluorophores from the NeuroPAL cell ID system. We show that this combination, but not others tested, avoids optical crosstalk, creates strong expression in the adult, and generates stable transgenic lines for systematic measurements of signal propagation in the worm brain.
Numerical simulation of 3-D seismic wave based on alternative flux finite-difference WENO scheme
Authors: Xu Tianhong , Zhang Zhenguo
Published: May 2024

High-frequency non-physical oscillations may occur due to shock waves in seismic wavefield and dynamic rupture simulation. In this study, we introduced the alternative flux finite-difference weighted essentially non-oscillatory scheme to address potential shock wave issues in computational seismology effectively. The wavefield of the body-fitted curvilinear domain was accurately computed through conservative grid mapping, ensuring accurate implementation of free surface boundary conditions on irregular surfaces using characteristic boundary conditions and minimizing artificial boundary reflections with exponential decay absorbing layers. Finally, we compared our scheme with the GRTM for flat surfaces and the CGFDM3D-EQR for irregular surfaces to demonstrate its correctness and accuracy, and validated its non-oscillatory characteristics. The aforementioned scheme is anticipated to assume a significant function in simulating more intricate seismic wavefields or dynamic ruptures.
Fictional friends and enemies as first aid after ostracism? Experimentally investigating the potential of para-/orthosocial relationships in belongingness need restoration and emotion regulation
Authors: Lutz Sarah , Schneider Frank M , Reich Sabine , Schimmel Michelle , Oechler Hannah , Beinlich Laura
Published: May 2024

Being socially excluded seriously threatens individuals’ need to belong and emotional well-being. This article investigates to what extent different coping strategies help overcome these detrimental effects: thinking about real-life friends/enemies (i.e., orthosocial relationships, OSRs) and thinking about (dis)liked media characters (i.e., parasocial relationships, PSRs). Across three experiments (NPilot = 129, NStudy1 = 132, NStudy2 = 855), we first induced social exclusion using a virtual ball-tossing game. Afterward, we manipulated different relationship types and valences and compared them to non- or less-relational control conditions. As hypothesized, belongingness and emotional well-being increased from pre- to post-coping. This effect was fully mediated by perceived relationship closeness to the respective person(a). Highlighting that PSRs represent more than surrogates (i.e., secondary replacements of OSR), both relationship types did not differ in coping effectiveness. Moreover, positive relationships were more effective in fulfilling both coping goals than negative ones.
Anti-inflammatory Effects of Bacteroidota Strains Derived From Outstanding Donors of Fecal Microbiota Transplantation for the Treatment of Ulcerative Colitis
Authors: Ishikawa Dai , Zhang Xiaochen , Nomura Kei , Shibuya Tomoyoshi , Hojo Mariko , Yamashita Makoto , Koizumi Satoshi , Yamazaki Fuhito , Iwamoto Susumu , Saito Masato , Kunigo Keisuke , Nakano Ryosuke , Honma Nakayuki , Urakawa Itaru , Nagahara Akihito
Published: May 2024

Background

The proportion of certain Bacteroidota species decreased in patients with ulcerative colitis, and the recovery of Bacteroidota is associated with the efficacy of fecal microbiota transplantation therapy. We hypothesized that certain Bacteroidota may advance ulcerative colitis treatment. Accordingly, we aimed to evaluate the anti-inflammatory effects of Bacteroidota strains isolated from donors.

Methods

Donors with proven efficacy of fecal microbiota transplantation for ulcerative colitis were selected, and Bacteroidota strains were isolated from their stools. The immune function of Bacteroidota isolates was evaluated through in vitro and in vivo studies.

Results

Twenty-four Bacteroidota strains were isolated and identified. Using an in vitro interleukin (IL)-10 induction assay, we identified 4 Bacteroidota strains with remarkable IL-10-induction activity. Of these, an Alistipes putredinis strain exhibited anti-inflammatory effects in a mouse model of colitis induced by sodium dextran sulfate and oxazolone. However, 16S rRNA gene-based sequencing analysis of A. putredinis cultures in the in vivo study revealed unexpected Veillonella strain contamination. A second in vitro study confirmed that the coculture exhibited an even more potent IL-10-inducing activity. Furthermore, the production of A. putredinis–induced IL-10 was likely mediated via toll-like receptor 2 signaling.

Conclusions

This study demonstrated that A. putredinis, a representative Bacteroidota species, exhibits anti-inflammatory effects in vivo and in vitro; however, the effects of other Bacteroidota species remain unexplored. Our fecal microbiota transplantation-based reverse translation approach using promising bacterial species may represent a breakthrough in microbiome drug development for controlling dysbiosis during ulcerative colitis.
Answering the key stakeholder questions about the impact of offshore wind farms on marine life using hypothesis testing to inform targeted monitoring
Authors: Cresci Alessandro , Degraer Steven , Zhang Guosong , Dannheim Jennifer , Browman Howard I
Published: May 2024

Stakeholders need scientific advice on the environmental impacts of offshore wind (OW) before the facilities are installed. The utility of conventional environmental monitoring methods as a basis for forecasting OW impacts is limited because they do not explain the causes of the observed effects. We propose a multistep approach, based on process-oriented hypothesis testing, targeted monitoring and numerical modeling, to answer key stakeholder questions about planning an OW facility: Q1—Where do we place future OW farms so that impacts on the ecosystem are minimized?  Q2—Which species and ecosystem processes will be impacted and to what degree?  Q3—Can we mitigate impacts and, if so, how? and Q4—What are the risks of placing an OW facility in one location vs. another? Hypothesis testing can be used to assess impacts of OW facilities on target species-ecological process. This knowledge is transferable and is broadly applicable, a priori, to assess suitable locations for OW (Q1). Hypothesis testing can be combined with monitoring methods to guide targeted monitoring. The knowledge generated can identify the species/habitats at risk (Q2), help selecting/developing mitigation measures (Q3), and be used as input parameters for models to forecast OW impacts at a large spatial scale (Q1; Q4).
Obesity, beverage consumption and sleep patterns in rural African women in relation to advertising of these beverages
Authors: Phaswana Merling , Mchiza Zandile June-Rose , Onagbiye Sunday Olawale , Gradidge Philippe Jean-Luc
Published: May 2024

Background

The burden of obesity-related, non-communicable diseases in South Africa is persistent, with poor and black South African women particularly vulnerable. The purpose of the present study was to determine relationships between obesity, physical activity, sleep patterns and beverage consumption among black South African women in a rural village in the Limpopo province.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted among 200 rural-dwelling African women. Data were collected on beverage consumption, sociodemographic information, sleep patterns and anthropometry using self-reported questionnaires.

Results

The mean body mass index (BMI) was 28.5±7.3 kg/m2, with 40% being classified as obese (BMI ≥30 kg/m2) and the mean sleep score was 4.68±2.51. Participants with very bad habitual sleeping patterns consumed significantly more sugar-sweetened beverages and alcohol than those with very good sleeping patterns. We also observed that when total coffee with sugar, fruit juice, total sugar-sweetened beverages and weight decreased the number of hours participants slept increased.

Conclusions

The study identified significant associations between body weight, sleep duration and sugar-sweetened beverage consumption among rural black South African women. This underscores a need to address unhealthy lifestyle behaviours to lower incidences of non-communicable diseases in rural-dwelling women.
Integrating clinical research into electronic health record workflows to support a learning health system
Authors: Goldhaber Nicole H , Jacobs Marni B , Laurent Louise C , Knight Rob , Zhu Wenhong , Pham Dean , Tran Allen , Patel Sandip P , Hogarth Michael , Longhurst Christopher A
Published: May 2024

Objective

Integrating clinical research into routine clinical care workflows within electronic health record systems (EHRs) can be challenging, expensive, and labor-intensive. This case study presents a large-scale clinical research project conducted entirely within a commercial EHR during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Case Report

The UCSD and UCSDH COVID-19 NeutraliZing Antibody Project (ZAP) aimed to evaluate antibody levels to SARS-CoV-2 virus in a large population at an academic medical center and examine the association between antibody levels and subsequent infection diagnosis.

Results

The project rapidly and successfully enrolled and consented over 2000 participants, integrating the research trial with standing COVID-19 testing operations, staff, lab, and mobile applications. EHR-integration increased enrollment, ease of scheduling, survey distribution, and return of research results at a low cost by utilizing existing resources.

Conclusion

The case study highlights the potential benefits of EHR-integrated clinical research, expanding their reach across multiple health systems and facilitating rapid learning during a global health crisis.
Effects of porcine somatotropin administration on the responses to dietary lysine and a near-ideal blend of amino acids on the amino acid composition of whole-body protein and amino acid accretion rate in growing pigs
Authors: Dozier William A , Cromwell Gary L , Lewis Austin J , Miller Phillip , Lindemann Merlin D
Published: May 2024

An experiment was conducted to assess the effects of porcine somatotropin (pST) on the responses to a near-ideal blend of AA on the AA composition of empty, whole-empty body (WEB) protein and WEB essential AA accretion rate in pigs from 22 to 60 kg BW. Forty Hampshire × Yorkshire gilts were individually penned and assigned to a 4 × 2 factorial arrangement of treatments consisting of four diets with and without pST injection. A fortified corn–soybean meal basal diet was formulated to contain 1.50% total Lys with Thr, Met, and Trp added to obtain a near-ideal blend of these AA relative to Lys. In three additional diets, Lys was reduced to 1.25%, 1.00%, and 0.75% by diluting the basal diet with cornstarch, cellulose, and sand such that the diets also contained the same ratios of AA. Pigs that received pST were administered a daily i.m. injection of 2 mg of pST. At 60 kg BW, the WEB (carcass, head, viscera, blood, nails, and hair) was ground and analyzed for proximate and AA composition. Administration of pST increased (P < 0.001) accretion rates of WEB protein and essential AA. Increasing dietary essential AA increased (quadratic, P < 0.03) accretion rate of WEB protein, His, Leu, Trp, and Val in pST-treated pigs, but not in untreated pigs. Lysine composition in the accreted WEB protein was not affected (P > 0.05) by dietary Lys. The efficiency of Lys utilization for WEB Lys accretion was linearly affected (P < 0.01) by dietary Lys. These results indicated that the dietary Lys needed to achieve maximum WEB Lys accretion is markedly increased by pST administration.
Pseudocalcifications: Radiologic-Pathologic Correlation of Postsurgical Gauze Artifacts
Authors: Lehrer Daniel , Kaplan Mariela , Ugalde Cecilia , Señuk Valeria , Mosto Julian
Published: May 2024

Artifacts and foreign bodies can mimic microcalcifications. We report a series of 17 postsurgical women in whom mammograms showed fine linear radiodensities at the surgical bed. Vacuum-assisted biopsy histopathology of one of the lesions showed foreign bodies of different sizes with macrophage reaction. After discussion with the surgeons, we ascertained that a particular type of gauze was used that had fragmented, and we reproduced the mammographic appearance in a chicken breast. Furthermore, we showed the same pathology was reproduced in mice implanted with the gauze threads. It is important to be aware of this entity to avoid unnecessary examinations and even biopsy. The presence of foreign body linear gauze fragments at the surgical site can pose challenges in the mammographic follow-up of these patients.
Acute toxicity effects of pesticides on predatory snout mites (Trombidiformes: Bdellidae)
Authors: Knapp Rosemary A , Mata Luis , McDougall Robert , Yang Qiong , Hoffmann Ary A , Umina Paul A
Published: May 2024

Predatory mites biologically control a range of arthropod crop pests and are often central to agricultural IPM strategies globally. Conflict between chemical and biological pest control has prompted increasing interest in selective pesticides with fewer off-target impacts on beneficial invertebrates, including predatory mites. However, the range of predatory mite species included in standardized pesticide toxicity assessments does not match the diversity of naturally occurring species contributing to biocontrol, with most testing carried out on species from the family Phytoseiidae (Mesostigmata). Here, we aim to bridge this knowledge gap by investigating the impacts of 22 agricultural pesticides on the predatory snout mite, Odontoscirus lapidaria (Kramer) (Trombidiformes: Bdellidae). Using internationally standardized testing methodologies, we identified several active ingredients with minimal impact on O. lapidaria mortality, including Bacillus thuringiensis, nuclear polyhedrosis virus, flonicamid, afidopyropen, chlorantraniliprole, and cyantraniliprole, which may therefore be good candidates for IPM strategies utilizing both chemical and biological control. Comparison of our findings with previous studies on Phytoseiid mites reveals important differences in responses to a number of chemicals between predatory mite families, including the miticides diafenthiuron and abamectin, highlighting the risk of making family-level generalizations from acute toxicity assessments. We also tested the impacts of several pesticides on a second Bdellidae species (Trombidiformes: Bdellidae) and found differences in the response to chlorpyrifos compared with O. lapidaria, further highlighting the taxon-specific nature of nontarget toxicity effects.
Behavioral variation among Fox Squirrel (Sciurus niger) populations in urban environments
Authors: Devitz Amy-Charlotte , Dantzer Ben
Published: May 2024

Urbanization presents a myriad of challenges to wildlife, yet some individuals or species persist and even thrive in urban environments. Specific behavioral traits that have been proposed to enable animals to cope with challenges and frequently observed in urban wildlife populations across many taxonomic groups include changes in docility, activity, boldness, sociability, and aggression. We conducted a series of standardized behavioral assays to test the hypothesis that urbanization favors these traits in fox squirrels (Sciurus niger), a species that is widespread in urban areas. Based upon previous studies, we predicted that squirrels would exhibit higher levels of boldness, activity, and aggression and lower docility in urban areas with higher human density compared to their counterparts in areas with lower human density areas. We instead found a trend of higher sociability—but not aggression—in squirrels at higher human density sites over lower human density sites, and no differences in docility, boldness, or activity. Our results indicate that the behavior of fox squirrels does not vary dramatically on a fine scale of human density, apart from a trend in heightened sociability in higher human density urban environments.
Large-scale overlap and fine-scale avoidance: assessing interactions between coyotes, bobcats, and cougars at multiple scales
Authors: Jensen Rylee , Ruprecht Joel , Orning Elizabeth , Levi Taal , Clark Darren E , Forrester Tavis D
Published: May 2024

In multi-carnivore systems individuals must forage and reproduce while also competing with other carnivores and avoiding intraguild predation. These interactions may vary by strength and scales across different ecosystems. We used occupancy analyses and attraction–avoidance indices to assess large- and fine-scale interactions, respectively, between Cougars (Puma concolor), Bobcats (Lynx rufus), and Coyotes (Canis latrans) in northeast Oregon based on data from camera traps set during the summer and fall of 2016 and 2017. To determine the importance of habitat preferences and spatial overlap, we compared occupancy (probability of use) models that included habitat covariates with and without species co-occurrence terms. Detection was different for all species and was influenced by roads, game trails, and canopy cover. Terrain ruggedness was important for all species; Bobcats showed the strongest preference for ruggedness, Cougars showed a weak preference, and Coyotes significantly but weakly avoided rugged areas. The top probability of use model showed that Bobcats and Coyotes were 1.88 times more likely to spatially overlap on roads. We also found evidence that interactions among carnivores were scale-dependent. At larger scales, habitat preference was more important than interactions with other carnivores, whereas at finer scales, most carnivores avoided each other. At fine spatiotemporal scales, our attraction–avoidance analyses showed that Bobcats avoided Coyotes and Coyotes avoided both Bobcats and Cougars. These findings suggest that carnivores in our study system were adept at minimizing conflict through fine-scale avoidance in space and time, that the human footprint can influence carnivore interactions, and that studying carnivore interactions at multiple scales is important for understanding the effects of spatial overlap and potential competition.
H i discs of L* galaxies as probes of the baryonic physics of galaxy evolution
Authors: Gensior Jindra , Feldmann Robert , Reina-Campos Marta , Trujillo-Gomez Sebastian , Mayer Lucio , Keller Benjamin W , Wetzel Andrew , Kruijssen J M Diederik , Hopkins Philip F , Moreno Jorge
Published: May 2024

Understanding what shapes the cold gas component of galaxies, which both provides the fuel for star formation and is strongly affected by the subsequent stellar feedback, is a crucial step towards a better understanding of galaxy evolution. Here, we analyse the H i properties of a sample of 46 Milky Way halo-mass galaxies, drawn from cosmological simulations (EMP-Pathfinder and Firebox). This set of simulations comprises galaxies evolved self-consistently across cosmic time with different baryonic sub-grid physics: three different star formation models [constant star formation efficiency (SFE) with different star formation eligibility criteria, and an environmentally dependent, turbulence-based SFE] and two different feedback prescriptions, where only one sub-sample includes early stellar feedback. We use these simulations to assess the impact of different baryonic physics on the H i content of galaxies. We find that the galaxy-wide H i properties agree with each other and with observations. However, differences appear for small-scale properties. The thin H i discs observed in the local universe are only reproduced with a turbulence-dependent SFE and/or early stellar feedback. Furthermore, we find that the morphology of H i discs is particularly sensitive to the different physics models: galaxies simulated with a turbulence-based SFE have discs that are smoother and more rotationally symmetric, compared to those simulated with a constant SFE; galaxies simulated with early stellar feedback have more regular discs than supernova-feedback-only galaxies. We find that the rotational asymmetry of the H i discs depends most strongly on the underlying physics model, making this a promising observable for understanding the physics responsible for shaping the interstellar medium of galaxies.
Fabrication of a 25.2 T NMR magnet for an extreme condition user facility in China
Authors: Han Hui , Shang Yun
Published: May 2024

This article highlights a research study on the fabrication of a 25.2 T ultra-high field NMR magnet for an extreme condition user facility in China.
STING agonist-conjugated metal-organic framework induces artificial leukocytoid structures and immune hotspots for systemic antitumor responses
Authors: Luo Taokun , Jiang Xiaomin , Fan Yingjie , Yuan Eric , Li Jinhong , Tillman Langston , Lin Wenbin
Published: May 2024

Radiotherapy is widely used for cancer treatment, but its clinical utility is limited by radioresistance and its inability to target metastases. Nanoscale metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) have shown promise as high-Z nanoradiosensitizers to enhance radiotherapy and induce immunostimulatory regulation of the tumor microenvironment. We hypothesized that MOFs could deliver small-molecule therapeutics to synergize with radiotherapy for enhanced antitumor efficacy. Herein, we develop a robust nanoradiosensitizer, GA-MOF, by conjugating a STING agonist, 2′,3′-cyclic guanosine monophosphate–adenosine monophosphate (GA), on MOFs for synergistic radiosensitization and STING activation. GA-MOF demonstrated strong anticancer efficacy by forming immune-cell-rich nodules (artificial leukocytoid structures) and transforming them into immunostimulatory hotspots with radiotherapy. Further combination with an immune checkpoint blockade suppressed distant tumors through systemic immune activation. Our work not only demonstrates the potent radiosensitization of GA-MOF, but also provides detailed mechanisms regarding MOF distribution, immune regulatory pathways and long-term immune effects.
The priority of intentional action: From developmental to conceptual priority
Authors: Levy Yair
Published: May 2024

Philosophical orthodoxy has it that intentional action consists in one's intention appropriately causing a motion of one's body, placing the latter (conceptually and/or metaphysically) prior to the former. Here, I argue that this standard schema should be reversed: acting intentionally is at least conceptually prior to intending. The argument is modelled on a Williamsonian argument for the priority of knowledge developed by Jenifer Nagel. She argues that children acquire the concept KNOWS before they acquire BELIEVES, building on this alleged developmental priority of knowledge to establish its conceptual priority. I start by taking a closer look at Nagel's argument, canvassing extant objections todo both with the empirical adequacy of her claims and their philosophical implications. Doing so allows me, in the second part of the paper, to draw lessons that inform the construction of a revamped parallel argument for the priority of ACTS INTENTIONALLY.
Development of a Method to Measure Trace Levels of Uranium and Thorium in Scintillation Films
Authors: Ichimura K , Chiba K , Gando Y , Ikeda H , Kishimoto Y , Kurasawa M , Nemoto K , Sakaguchi A , Takaku Y , Sakakieda Y
Published: May 2024

We have established a method to measure picograms-per-gram (pg g−1) levels of 238U and 232Th in scintillation films by combining the dry ashing method and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Trace amounts of 238U and 232Th were measured in up to 2 g of scintillation film with almost 100% collection efficiency. This paper details the experimental procedure, including the pretreatment of the samples and labware, detection limit of the method, collection efficiencies of 238U and 232Th, and measurement of 238U and 232Th in a polyethylene naphthalate film. This method is also applicable to 238U and 232Th measurements in other low-background organic materials for rare-event search experiments.
The View from Above and Below: Subjective Mobility and Explanations of Class, Race, and Gender Inequality
Authors: Hiltner Sofia , Cech Erin A
Published: May 2024

Popular explanations of inequality as the result of individual failings rather than structural processes are powerful cultural mechanisms that legitimize and reproduce inequality in the United States. How might individuals’ experiences of downward or upward mobility shape the explanations they give? We argue that perceived experiences of economic mobility may not only shape how Americans understand economic inequality but may also impact their beliefs about social inequalities more broadly. Using proportionally representative survey data of 1110 U.S. residents, we find that those who perceive that they currently occupy a lower economic class than when they were growing up (i.e., they experienced subjective downward mobility) were more likely than class-stable individuals to reject individualistic explanations of economic inequality and embrace structural ones. By contrast, the upwardly mobile were more likely to reject structural explanations. We find that mobility is similarly related to the likelihood of giving individualistic or structural explanations for race and gender inequality as well. Downward mobility is also associated with greater support of redistributive policies related to economic as well as gender and race inequality. These findings suggest that economic mobility may influence popular explanations of inequality and support for redistributive policy not only related to class inequality but for multiple axes of inequality.