bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Barcoded SARS-CoV-2 viruses define the impact of duration and route of exposure on the transmission bottleneck in a hamster model
Authors: Trende Reed , Darling Tamarand L. , Gan Tianyu , Wang David , Boon Adrianus C. M.
Published: January 2025

The transmission bottleneck, defined as the number of viruses shed from one host to infect another, is an important determinant of the rate of virus evolution and the level of immunity required to protect against virus transmission. Despite its importance, the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) transmission bottleneck remains poorly characterized. We adapted a SARS-CoV-2 reverse genetics system to generate a pool of >200 isogenic SARS-CoV-2 viruses harboring specific 6-nucleotide barcodes, infected donor hamsters with this pool, and exposed contact hamsters to paired infected donors, varying the duration and route of exposure. Following exposure, the nasal turbinates, trachea, and lungs were collected and the number of barcodes in each tissue was enumerated. We found that longer and more direct exposures increased the transmission bottleneck and that the upper airway is the primary source of transmitted virus in this model. Together, these findings highlight the utility of barcoded viruses as tools to rigorously study virus transmission.
A tunable metamaterial microwave absorber inspired by chameleon’s color-changing mechanism
Authors: Lim Dahyun D. , Ibarra Alberto , Lee Jeongwoo , Jung Jiyoung , Choi Wonjoon , Gu Grace X.
Published: January 2025

A metamaterial absorber capable of swiftly altering its electromagnetic response in the microwave range offers adaptability to changing environments, such as tunable stealth capabilities. Inspired by the chameleon’s ability to change color through the structural transformation of photonic lattice crystals, which shift the bandgaps of reflection and transmission of visible light, we designed a crisscross structure that transforms from an expanded to a collapsed form. This transformation enables a switch between broadband absorption and peak transmission in the microwave range (4 to 18 gigahertz). The structure, optimized through data-driven design, is mechanically actuated by the rotation of interlinked trusses. This mechanism changes the entire array’s response, allowing it to remain undetected by an external radar or to transmit an internal radar signal to a near-field receiver when needed. The mechanical actuation and the shifting electromagnetic response of the arrayed structure are demonstrated.
Observation of broadband super-absorption of electromagnetic waves through space-time symmetry breaking
Authors: Ciabattoni Matteo , Hayran Zeki , Monticone Francesco
Published: January 2025

Using time as an additional design parameter in electromagnetism, photonics, and wave physics is attracting considerable research interest, motivated by the possibility to explore physical phenomena and engineering opportunities beyond the limits of time-invariant systems. Here, we report the experimental demonstration of enhanced broadband absorption of electromagnetic waves in a continuously modulated time-varying system, exceeding one of the key theoretical limits of linear time-invariant absorbers. This is achieved by harnessing the frequency–wave vector transitions and enhanced interference effects enabled by breaking both continuous space- and time-translation symmetries in a periodically time-modulated absorbing structure operating at radio frequencies. Furthermore, we demonstrate broadband coherent wave absorption using a secondary control wave, observing a nearly perfect, reconfigurable, antireflection effect over a broad continuous bandwidth. Our findings provide insights into enhanced wave absorption in time-varying scenarios and may enable the development of devices operating in a regime fundamentally beyond the reach of linear time-invariant systems.
Discovery of Laacher See eruption in speleothem record synchronizes Greenland and central European Late Glacial climate change
Authors: Warken Sophie F. , Schmitt Axel K. , Scholz Denis , Hertwig Andreas , Weber Michael , Mertz-Kraus Regina , Reinig Frederick , Esper Jan , Sigl Michael
Published: January 2025

To assess the impact of ongoing, historically unprecedented Arctic ice melting, precisely synchronized chronologies are indispensable for past analogs of abrupt climate change. Around 12,900 years before present (B.P.), the Atlantic-European realm experienced an abrupt relapse to near-glacial climate conditions attributed to Arctic meltwater fluxes, the Younger Dryas. However, it remained unclear how fast this climatic change propagated southward into Europe as terrestrial and ice-core chronologies are not sufficiently synchronized. Here, we use a volcanic sulfur spike identified in a speleothem from Germany to link the Laacher See eruption (LSE), a key chronostratigraphic marker in European terrestrial archives, to a previously unidentified sulfate spike in the Greenland ice-core record. The LSE, dated to 13,008 ± 8 years B.P.
1950
, thus synchronizes radiometric and ice-core calendars back in time, which consistently demonstrates that the LSE predates the onset of the Younger Dryas cooling by about 150 years, both in Greenland and Europe.
Acrobatics at the insect scale: A durable, precise, and agile micro–aerial robot
Authors: Kim Suhan , Hsiao Yi-Hsuan , Ren Zhijian , Huang Jiashu , Chen Yufeng
Published: January 2025

Aerial insects are exceptionally agile and precise owing to their small size and fast neuromotor control. They perform impressive acrobatic maneuvers when evading predators, recovering from wind gust, or landing on moving objects. Flapping-wing propulsion is advantageous for flight agility because it can generate large changes in instantaneous forces and torques. During flapping-wing flight, wings, hinges, and tendons of pterygote insects endure large deformation and high stress hundreds of times each second, highlighting the outstanding flexibility and fatigue resistance of biological structures and materials. In comparison, engineered materials and microscale structures in subgram micro–aerial vehicles (MAVs) exhibit substantially shorter lifespans. Consequently, most subgram MAVs are limited to hovering for less than 10 seconds or following simple trajectories at slow speeds. Here, we developed a 750-milligram flapping-wing MAV that demonstrated substantially improved lifespan, speed, accuracy, and agility. With transmission and hinge designs that reduced off-axis torsional stress and deformation, the robot achieved a 1000-second hovering flight, two orders of magnitude longer than existing subgram MAVs. This robot also performed complex flight trajectories with under 1-centimeter root mean square error and more than 30 centimeters per second average speed. With a lift-to-weight ratio of 2.2 and a maximum ascending speed of 100 centimeters per second, this robot demonstrated double body flips at a rotational rate exceeding that of the fastest aerial insects and larger MAVs. These results highlight insect-like flight endurance, precision, and agility in an at-scale MAV, opening opportunities for future research on sensing and power autonomy.
Gene therapy ameliorates bowel dysmotility and enteric neuron degeneration and extends survival in lysosomal storage disorder mouse models
Authors: Ziółkowska Ewa A. , Jansen Matthew J. , Williams Letitia L. , Wang Sophie H. , Eultgen Elizabeth M. , Takahashi Keigo , Le Steven Q. , Nelvagal Hemanth R. , Sharma Jaiprakash , Sardiello Marco , DeBosch Brian J. , Dickson Patricia I. , Anderson Jessica B. , Sax Sophie E. , Wright Christina M. , Bradley Rebecca P. , Whiteman Ineka T. , Makita Takako , Grider John R. , Sands Mark S. , Heuckeroth Robert O. , Cooper Jonathan D.
Published: January 2025

Children with neurodegenerative disease often have debilitating gastrointestinal symptoms. We hypothesized that this may be due at least in part to underappreciated degeneration of neurons in the enteric nervous system (ENS), the master regulator of bowel function. To test this hypothesis, we evaluated mouse models of neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis type 1 and 2 (CLN1 and CLN2 disease, respectively), neurodegenerative lysosomal storage disorders caused by deficiencies in palmitoyl protein thioesterase-1 and tripeptidyl peptidase-1, respectively. Both mouse lines displayed slow bowel transit in vivo that worsened with age. Although the ENS appeared to develop normally in these mice, there was a progressive and profound loss of myenteric plexus neurons accompanied by changes in enteric glia in adult mice. Similar pathology was evident in colon autopsy material from a child with CLN1 disease. Neonatal administration of adeno-associated virus–mediated gene therapy prevented bowel transit defects, ameliorated loss of enteric neurons, and extended survival in mice. Treatment after weaning was less effective than treating neonatally but still extended the lifespan of CLN1 disease mice. These data provide proof-of-principle evidence of ENS degeneration in two lysosomal storage diseases and suggest that gene therapy can ameliorate ENS disease, also improving survival.
Inhaled xenon modulates microglia and ameliorates disease in mouse models of amyloidosis and tauopathy
Authors: Brandao Wesley , Jain Nimansha , Yin Zhuoran , Kleemann Kilian L. , Carpenter Madison , Bao Xin , Serrano Javier R. , Tycksen Eric , Durao Ana , Barry Jen-Li , Baufeld Caroline , Guneykaya Dilansu , Zhang Xiaoming , Litvinchuk Alexandra , Jiang Hong , Rosenzweig Neta , Pitts Kristen M. , Aronchik Michael , Yahya Taha , Cao Tian , Takahashi Marcelo Kenzo , Krishnan Rajesh , Davtyan Hayk , Ulrich Jason D. , Blurton-Jones Mathew , Ilin Ilya , Weiner Howard L. , Holtzman David M. , Butovsky Oleg
Published: January 2025

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most prevalent neurodegenerative disorder. Antiamyloid antibody treatments modestly slow disease progression in mild dementia due to AD. Emerging evidence shows that homeostatic dysregulation of the brain immune system, especially that orchestrated by microglia, plays an important role in disease onset and progression. Thus, a major question is how to modulate the phenotype and function of microglia to treat AD. Xenon (Xe) gas is a noble gas used in human patients as an anesthetic and a neuroprotectant used for treating brain injuries. Xe penetrates the blood-brain barrier, which could make it an effective therapeutic. To assess the effect of Xe on microglia and AD pathology, we designed a custom Xe inhalation chamber and treated several mouse models of AD with Xe gas. Xe treatment induced mouse microglia to adopt an intermediate activation state that we have termed pre–neurodegenerative microglia (pre-MGnD). This microglial phenotypic transition was observed in mouse models of acute neurodegeneration and amyloidosis (APP/PS1 and 5xFAD mice) and tauopathy (P301S mice). This microglial state enhanced amyloid plaque compaction and reduced dystrophic neurites in the APP/PS1 and 5xFAD mouse models. Moreover, Xe inhalation reduced brain atrophy and neuroinflammation and improved nest-building behavior in P301S mice. Mechanistically, Xe inhalation induced homeostatic brain microglia toward a pre-MGnD state through IFN-γ signaling that maintained the microglial phagocytic response in APP/PS1 and 5xFAD mice while suppressing the microglial proinflammatory phenotype in P301S mice. These results support the translation of Xe inhalation as an approach for treating AD.
Macrophage-specific in vivo RNA editing promotes phagocytosis and antitumor immunity in mice
Authors: Chen Yuxuan , Chen Xiaohong , Zhang Yao , Wang Meng , Yang Minqi , Wang Ruiji , Yan Xiaojie , Shao Shiyi , Xin Huhu , Hu Qida , Wei Wei , Ping Yuan
Published: January 2025

Macrophages play a central role in antitumor immunity, making them an attractive target for gene therapy strategies. However, macrophages are difficult to transfect because of nucleic acid sensors that can trigger the degradation of foreign plasmid DNA. Here, we developed a macrophage-specific editing (MAGE) system by which compact plasmid DNA encoding a CasRx editor can be delivered to macrophages by a poly(β-amino ester) (PBAE) carrier to bypass the DNA sensor and enable RNA editing in vitro and in vivo. We identified a four-arm branched PBAE with 1-(2-aminoethyl)-4-methylpiperazine end-capping (PBAE29) that enables highly efficient macrophage transfection. PBAE29-mediated transfection of cultured macrophages stimulated less inflammatory cytokine production and inflammasome activation compared with traditional lipofectamine or electroporation-mediated plasmid delivery. Transfection efficiency was further improved by delivering CasRx by minicircle plasmid. The MAGE system incorporated a layer of carboxylated-mannan coating to target macrophage mannose receptors and a macrophage-specific promoter for enhanced selectivity. The delivery of CasRx with guide RNA targeting the transcripts for sialic acid–binding immunoglobulin similar to lectin 10 and signal regulatory protein alpha expression resulted in effective protein knockdown, improving macrophage phagocytosis. The MAGE system also showed efficacy in targeting macrophages in vivo, stimulating antitumor immune responses and reducing tumor volume in murine tumor models, including patient-derived pancreatic adenocarcinoma xenografts in humanized mice. In sum, the MAGE system presents a promising platform for in vivo macrophage-specific delivery of RNA editing tools that can be applied as a cancer therapy.
Orthopedia
regulates melanocortin 4 receptor transcription and energy homeostasis
Authors: Xu Baijie , Lawler Katherine , Wyler Steven C. , Li Li , Swati  , Keogh Julia M. , Chen Xiameng , Wan Rong , Almeida Amanda G. , Kirsch Susan , Mountjoy Kathleen G. , Elmquist Joel K. , Farooqi I. Sadaf , Liu Chen
Published: January 2025

Disruption of hypothalamic melanocortin 4 receptors (MC4Rs) causes obesity in mice and humans. Here, we investigated the transcriptional regulation of
MC4R
in the hypothalamus. In mice, we show that the homeodomain transcription factor Orthopedia (OTP) is enriched in MC4R neurons in the paraventricular nucleus (PVN) of the hypothalamus and directly regulates
Mc4r
transcription. Deletion of
Otp
in PVN neurons during development or adulthood reduced
Mc4r
expression, causing increased food intake and obesity. In humans, four of the five carriers of rare predicted functional
OTP
variants in UK Biobank had obesity. To explore a causal role for human
OTP
variants, we generated mice with a loss-of-function
OTP
mutation identified in a child with severe obesity. Heterozygous knock-in mice exhibited hyperphagia and obesity, reversed by treatment with an MC4R agonist. Our findings demonstrate that OTP regulates mammalian energy homeostasis and enable the diagnosis and treatment of individuals with obesity due to
OTP
deficiency.
Feasibility of home blood pressure screening in the paediatric outpatient clinic setting
Authors: Mackay Jessie R , Glenning Jonathan P , Grantham Brittany M , Clark Kylie , Mynard Jonathan P , Olweny Catherine N , Quinlan Catherine , Dabscheck Gabriel
Published: January 2025

Objective

The aim of this study was to evaluate the acceptability and feasibility of home-based blood pressure (BP) screening in a group of paediatric patients with known elevated risk of developing hypertension.

Design

Cross-sectional study.

Setting

Specialist outpatient clinic and patient homes.

Patients

52 children and adolescents living with neurofibromatosis type 1.

Interventions

Clinic BP measured thrice manually and once via an automated device; home BP measured daily with the same device for 3 days.

Main outcome measures

Acceptability and feasibility were assessed with a Children’s Anxiety Meter-State score, the comparability of home and clinic BPs, a parental survey, assessment of costs and the device return rate.

Results

Home systolic BP and diastolic BP were statistically similar to both clinic manual (95% CI −4.78 to 0.13; −4.80 to 0.93) and automatic BPs (95% CI −4.44 to 2.08; −0.54 to 5.52). Anxiety scores (95% CI −0.57 to 0.35) were also similar between settings. Participants and their families reported that home BP measurement was easy, took ~10 min and minimally interrupted family life. Families also largely preferred home BP screening (73% ‘yes’, 23% ‘not sure’, 3% ‘no’), and 90% returned their devices. Families reported substantial costs in attending clinic, which could be reduced with access to this home BP programme.

Conclusions

Home BP screening was acceptable and feasible, with home BPs comparable to clinic measurements, no associated anxiety and preferred by families. Telehealth with home BP screening is a viable alternative to in-person appointments, which could reduce individual costs, and foster greater equity of care and access to health services.
Can large language models fully automate or partially assist paper selection in systematic reviews?
Authors: Chen Haichao , Jiang Zehua , Liu Xinyu , Xue Can Can , Yew Samantha Min Er , Sheng Bin , Zheng Ying-Feng , Wang Xiaofei , Wu You , Sivaprasad Sobha , Wong Tien Yin , Chaudhary Varun , Tham Yih Chung
Published: January 2025

Background/aims

Large language models (LLMs) have substantial potential to enhance the efficiency of academic research. The accuracy and performance of LLMs in a systematic review, a core part of evidence building, has yet to be studied in detail.

Methods

We introduced two LLM-based approaches of systematic review: an LLM-enabled fully automated approach (LLM-FA) utilising three different GPT-4 plugins (Consensus GPT, Scholar GPT and GPT web browsing modes) and an LLM-facilitated semi-automated approach (LLM-SA) using GPT4’s Application Programming Interface (API). We benchmarked these approaches using three published systematic reviews that reported the prevalence of diabetic retinopathy across different populations (general population, pregnant women and children).

Results

The three published reviews consisted of 98 papers in total. Across these three reviews, in the LLM-FA approach, Consensus GPT correctly identified 32.7% (32 out of 98) of papers, while Scholar GPT and GPT4’s web browsing modes only identified 19.4% (19 out of 98) and 6.1% (6 out of 98), respectively. On the other hand, the LLM-SA approach not only successfully included 82.7% (81 out of 98) of these papers but also correctly excluded 92.2% of 4497 irrelevant papers.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest LLMs are not yet capable of autonomously identifying and selecting relevant papers in systematic reviews. However, they hold promise as an assistive tool to improve the efficiency of the paper selection process in systematic reviews.
Short term complications of conisation and long term effects on fertility related outcomes in Denmark: register based nationwide cohort study
Authors: Aagaard Mathias , á Rogvi Jessica , Modin Frederikke , Nicolaisdóttir Dagny , Siersma Volkert , Brandt Brodersen John
Published: January 2025

Objective

To report on complications of conisation and its effects on fertility and stenosis.

Design

Register based nationwide cohort study on routinely collected data using several linked databases.

Setting

Primary and secondary care in Denmark, 2006-18.

Population

The conisation cohort comprised 48 048 conisations on women aged 23-65 who had undergone conisation within 120 days of a cervical biopsy. The biopsy cohort comprised 48 048 biopsies on women who had undergone a cervical biopsy but not conisation who were matched by age and time of procedure. Women were excluded from the conisation cohort before long term outcome analyses if they had undergone hysterectomy, resection of the uterus, or had cervical cancer or any long term outcomes within the 10 years before their conisation.

Main outcome measures

Bleeding, infection, and gynaecological operations within 30 days of conisation (stratified by age, year of conisation, and number of previous conisations) and long term risk of fertility treatment, fertility consultation, stenosis, cervical dilatation, infertility diagnoses, and death at any point after conisation. Long term outcomes were followed up until death, emigration, diagnosis of cervical cancer, hysterectomy or resection of uterus, or the end of 2018. Long term outcomes were analysed with incidence rate ratios from Cox regression models.

Results

Bleeding, infection, and gynaecological operations were registered for 2.81% (n=1351), 0.48% (n=231), and 3.95% (n=1897) of all conisations within 30 days of the procedure, respectively. Women in the conisation cohort had increased risk of stenosis (incidence rate ratio 14.81, 95% confidence interval 7.55 to 29.05, 0.41%
v
0.03% (n=176
v
12)) and cervical dilatation (2.68, 2.41 to 2.97, 4.01%
v
1.58% (n=1735
v
668)) compared with women in the biopsy cohort. No significant differences were observed for the other outcomes when adjusting for baseline covariates (such as age and region of residence). Cervical suturing after bleeding was associated with a substantial increase in the risk of stenosis and cervical dilatation.

Conclusion

This study found higher rates of complications within 30 days of conisation than previous studies with comparable outcome definitions, and a substantially increased risk of stenosis and cervical dilatation for women who had cervical suturing to treat bleeding after conisation. However, these results were based on few events in a small subgroup, and are therefore associated with major uncertainty. This study supports previous findings that conisation does not generally increase rates of infertility treatment or infertility diagnoses.
Effect of electronic cigarette atomising power and flavour on aerosol size-segregated metal concentration and inhalation risk
Authors: Lee Jinho , Afshar Masoud , Su Wei-Chung , Han Inkyu
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Although numerous studies have estimated the inhalation dose of metals emitted from electronic cigarettes (e-cigs), the impact of factors including aerosol size and the atomising power of e-cig aerosols on estimating the inhalation dose of metals remains underexplored. A comprehensive understanding of these determinants is essential to assess the health risks associated with inhaling e-cig aerosols, which may contain potentially harmful metals.

Objectives

The aim of this study is to elucidate the mass and inhalation doses of potentially harmful metals in e-cig aerosols by different particle size and their association with the various atomising powers of e-cig devices and flavours.

Methods

Size-segregated e-cig aerosols were generated and collected in a exposure chamber, using an 11-stage cascade impactor for the analyses of aerosol mass and metals. The metal deposition dose in the human respiratory tract was calculated using a mathematical respiratory deposition estimation model and metal mass concentration by the size of aerosols.

Results

In this study, the results showed that neither an increase in atomising power (from 5 to 20 W) nor e-cig flavours resulted in a significant increase in a metal deposition in the respiratory tracts. Although the factors did not significantly affect the calculated respiratory deposition of harmful metals under typical e-cig usage assumption, the estimated hazard index exceeded 1.0.

Conclusion

The calculated health risks suggest substantial risks of inhalation of metal aerosols from e-cig use.
Time-dependent interaction coefficients to quantify the settlement of energy pile groups
Authors: De Silva Filomena , Iodice Chiara , Russo Gianpiero
Published: January 2025

The use of energy piles is facing an exponential growth due to the increasing need of exploiting sustainable energy sources. Their design implies the estimation of the displacement induced by the combined thermo-mechanical interaction between piles belonging to the same group. In this regard, the work at hand derives sets of interaction coefficients for piles subjected to thermal load in not stationary conditions, using finite difference numerical analyses. These involved pile pairs embedded in different soil types at multiple spacing, namely 2, 4, 6, 8, 10 times the pile diameter. A new dimensionless parameter is also introduced to describe the evolution with time of the interaction coefficients accounting for pile-to-pile spacing, soil thermal diffusivity, pile-soil stiffness ratio and time. The numerical results demonstrate a strict time-dependence of the interaction coefficients that is worthy to be considered in the design practice. To this aim a practice-oriented approach is proposed allowing to evaluate the interaction effects and thereby derive the settlement of each pile in a straightforward manner. This requires as only ingredient the settlement of the isolated energy pile at the considered time instant. The simplified approach is successfully validated against full 3D thermo-mechanical numerical analyses on pile groups including conventional and energy piles with different layouts.
Effect of pre-strain on the flux dynamics of current-carrying superconductors containing defects
Authors: Ma Ping , Zhao Yufeng
Published: January 2025

This article presents a study that combines the electrostatic potential equation with the time-dependent Ginzburg–Landau equation, incorporating volume strain and utilizing Maxwell-type and current-carrying boundary conditions. Through the finite difference method, the research investigates the magnetic flux dynamics and energy variations in a type II superconductor with an artificial defect at the center, considering pre-strain, external magnetic field, and external current. The findings indicate that linear deformation and external electric field have a significant impact on the electrical properties, distribution of magnetic flux vortices, vortex dynamics, order parameter value, and overall total energy in superconductors with defects. These results contribute to a better understanding of the magnetic flux dynamics in superconductors under complex conditions.
Preliminary results on the long-term operation of RPCs with eco-friendly gas mixtures under irradiation at the CERN Gamma Irradiation Facility
Authors:   The RPC ECOgas@GIF++ Collaboration:, Quaglia L. , Ramos D. , Abbrescia M. , Aielli G. , Aly R. , Arena M. C. , Barroso M. , Benussi L. , Bianco S. , Boscherini D. , Bordon F. , Bruni A. , Buontempo S. , Busato M. , Camarri P. , Cardarelli R. , Congedo L. , De Jesus Damiao D. , De Serio M. , Di Ciacco A. , Di Stante L. , Dupieux P. , Eysermans J. , Ferretti A. , Galati G. , Gagliardi M. , Garetti S. , Guida R. , Iaselli G. , Joly B. , Juks S. A. , Lee K. S. , Liberti B. , Ramirez D. Lucero , Mandelli B. , Manen S. P. , Massa L. , Pastore A. , Pastori E. , Piccolo D. , Pizzimento L. , Polini A. , Proto G. , Pugliese G. , Rigoletti G. , Rocchi A. , Romano M. , Samalan A. , Salvini P. , Santonico R. , Saviano G. , Sessa M. , Simone S. , Terlizzi L. , Tytgat M. , Vercellin E. , Verzeroli M. , Zaganidis N.
Published: January 2025

Since 2019, a collaboration between researchers from various institutes and experiments (i.e., ATLAS, CMS, ALICE, LHCb/SHiP and the CERN EP-DT group) has been operating several RPCs with diverse electronics, gas gap thicknesses and detector layouts at the CERN Gamma Irradiation Facility (GIF++). The studies aim at assessing the performance of RPCs when filled with new eco-friendly gas mixtures in avalanche mode and in view of evaluating possible aging effects after long high background irradiation periods, for example, high-luminosity LHC phase. This challenging research is also part of a task of the European AidaInnova project. A promising eco-friendly gas identified for RPC operation is the tetrafluoruropropene (C

$$_{3}$$

3

H

$$_{2}$$

2

F

$$_{4}$$

4

, commercially known as HFO-1234ze) that has been studied at the CERN GIF++ in combination with different percentages of CO

$$_2$$

2

. Between the end of 2021 and 2022, several beam tests have been carried out to establish the performance of RPCs operated with such mixtures before starting the irradiation campaign for the aging study. Results of these tests for different RPCs layouts and different gas mixtures, under increasing background rates are presented here, together with the preliminary outcome of the detector aging tests.
FooDS: Ontology-based Knowledge Graphs for Forest Observatories
Authors: Hamed Naeima , Rana Omer , Orozco Ter Wengel Pablo , Goossens Benoit , Perera Charith
Published: January 2025

Wildlife research activities generate data on ecosystems and species interactions from varied independent projects. Forest Observatories are online platforms that curate, integrate, and analyze wildlife research data for forest monitoring. However, integrating data from disparate sources can be challenging due to data heterogeneity. This study, in collaboration with a research facility in the forest of Sabah, Malaysian Borneo, proposes a novel approach to integrate heterogeneous wildlife data for Forest Observatories. We used the Forest Observatory Ontology (FOO) to standardize wildlife data entities generated by sensors. Four semantically modeled wildlife datasets populated FOO, resulting in an ontology-based knowledge graph named FooDS (Forest Observatory Ontology Data Store). We evaluated FOO and FooDS using specialized open-source ontology scanners, domain experts’ feedback, and applied use cases. This study contributes FooDS, the first ontology-based knowledge graph for Forest Observatories, which provides accurate query responses, reasoning about data, and granular data acquisition from diverse datasets. FOO in turtle format, FOO’s documentation and FooDS in turtle format and their resource website are published at
https://w3id.org/def/foo
,
https://w3id.org/def/fooDocs
,
https://w3id.org/def/fooDS
, and
https://ontology.forest-observatory.org
.
Interactions of Chronic Stress Exposure and Stress Appraisal on Vascular Endothelial Function Among Young Adults
Authors: Carlson Alyssa S. , Schwager Laura E. , Hart Thomas W. , Diesel Sara J. , Harris Jordan L. , Flores Mark , West Kylee , Thomas Emily B.K. , Jenkins Nathaniel D.M.
Published: January 2025

Objective: We investigated the associations of ongoing, chronic stress exposure and stress appraisal on vascular endothelial function (VEF) in young adults.

Methods: In 72 healthy young adults (74% female; age = 25±1 y), we assessed chronic stress exposure and appraisal with a measure that quantified chronic stress exposure and chronic stress appraisal related to 8 specific stressors over the last year. Participants completed the perceived stress scale (PSS) as a measure of global, proximal stress appraisal. VEF was assessed using the brachial artery flow mediated dilation technique. We examined relations among ongoing, chronic stress exposure and stress appraisal versus VEF adjusted for age and sex, and then assessed whether stress appraisal moderated the effect of chronic stress exposure on VEF.

Results: Chronic stress exposure (β=−0.24, p=.045), but not chronic stress appraisal (β=0.07, p=.56) or perceived stress (β=−0.20, p=.11), was related to VEF. Perceived stress (p = .046), but not chronic stress appraisal ( p=.54), moderated the association between chronic stress exposure and VEF. The effect of chronic stress exposure on VEF ceased to be significant at a PSS score of ~22. Subsequent exploratory stratified analysis indicated that those with PSS ≥22 had increased exposure to adverse childhood experiences (+1.6±0.6, p=.01), greater depressive symptoms (+10.2±2.7, p<.001), and reduced psychological resilience (−7.6±3.5, p=.036).

Conclusions: Chronic stress exposure significantly predicts impaired VEF among young adults. Further, this relation is influenced by proximal perceived stress, such that the association of chronic stress exposure on VEF may be obscured at high levels of proximal perceived stress.
Supplementary Data from Ephrin A1 Stimulates CCL2 Secretion to Facilitate Premetastatic Niche Formation and Promote Gastric Cancer Liver Metastasis
Authors: Cui Yun , Chang Yongxia , Ma Xixi , Sun Meng , Huang Yuliang , Yang Feng , Li Shuang , Zhuo Wei , Liu Wei , Yang Bo , Lin Aifu , Ou Guangshuo , Yang Yuehong , Xie Shanshan , Zhou Tianhua
Published: January 2025

Fig. S1-S15 Table S1, S2
Supplementary information from PHGDH Induction by MAPK Is Essential for Melanoma Formation and Creates an Actionable Metabolic Vulnerability
Authors: Jasani Neel , Xu Xiaonan , Posorske Benjamin , Kim Yumi , Wang Kaizhen , Vera Olga , Tsai Kenneth Y. , DeNicola Gina M. , Karreth Florian A.
Published: January 2025

Supplementary information with tracked changes
Figure S1 from PHGDH Induction by MAPK Is Essential for Melanoma Formation and Creates an Actionable Metabolic Vulnerability
Authors: Jasani Neel , Xu Xiaonan , Posorske Benjamin , Kim Yumi , Wang Kaizhen , Vera Olga , Tsai Kenneth Y. , DeNicola Gina M. , Karreth Florian A.
Published: January 2025

Figure S1
Data from Ephrin A1 Stimulates CCL2 Secretion to Facilitate Premetastatic Niche Formation and Promote Gastric Cancer Liver Metastasis
Authors: Cui Yun , Chang Yongxia , Ma Xixi , Sun Meng , Huang Yuliang , Yang Feng , Li Shuang , Zhuo Wei , Liu Wei , Yang Bo , Lin Aifu , Ou Guangshuo , Yang Yuehong , Xie Shanshan , Zhou Tianhua
Published: January 2025

Abstract
The liver is a primary target for distal metastasis of gastric cancer. The hepatic premetastatic niche (PMN) facilitates crucial communications between primary tumor and liver, thereby playing an essential role in hepatic metastasis. Identification of the molecular mechanisms driving PMN formation in gastric cancer could facilitate development of strategies to prevent and treat liver metastasis. Here, we uncovered a role for ephrin A1 (EFNA1) signaling in development of the PMN. EFNA1 overexpression in gastric cancer cells significantly increased C–C motif chemokine ligand 2 (CCL2) secretion through the Hippo–YAP pathway. Secreted CCL2 activated hepatic stellate cells (HStC) within the hepatic PMN via the WNT/β-catenin pathway. Inhibition of CCL2 significantly suppressed HStC activation and reduced liver metastasis triggered by EFNA1 signaling in gastric cancer cells. Moreover, high CCL2 expression correlated with poor survival in patients with cancer. Overall, these findings reveal that EFNA1 signaling in gastric cancer cells upregulates CCL2, which activates HStCs to engender establishment of a hepatic PMN that supports liver metastasis.

Significance: Cross-talk between gastric cancer cells and hepatic stellate cells mediated by the EFNA1/CCL2 axis induces premetastatic niche development to facilitate metastatic spread, nominating CCL2 as a therapeutic target to suppress liver metastasis.
Figure S1 from First-in-Human Study of 23ME-00610, an Antagonistic Antibody for Genetically Validated CD200R1 Immune Checkpoint, in Participants with Advanced Solid Malignancies
Authors: Kummar Shivaani , Razak Albiruni Abdul , Laurie Scott , Glatt Dylan M. , Kell Sariah , Diep Anh N. , Schmidt Maike , Hom Clifford , German Chris , Shringarpure Suyash S. , Majeed Sophia R. , Rasco Drew
Published: January 2025

Supplemental Figure S1
Assessing Predictors of Acute and Chronic Thrombotic Microangiopathy in Native and Allograft Biopsies
Authors: Tariq Anam , Raj Dominic , Tariq Azka , Arend Lois , Atta Mohamed G.
Published: January 2025

Introduction: Thrombotic microangiopathies (TMA) represent distinct pathological and clinical entities with known chronicity and recurrence. Kidney biopsy is the gold standard to diagnose TMA in patients with renal manifestations but the prognostic significance of acute or chronic phase of the disease has not been well studied. We examined the clinical characteristics, management, and predictors of acute vs. chronic TMA among native and transplants.
Methods: Observational, cross-sectional study of 22-year period at the Johns Hopkins hospital. Prevalence of acute vs. chronic TMA were based on specific histology identified on native and allografts kidney biopsies. Predictors of acute and chronic TMA were assessed using simple linear regression and odd ratios.
Results: Among 127 patients, 29 (23%) had chronic TMA and 98 (77%) had acute TMA, with 60% female and 43 ±18 years of age. Chronic TMA was significantly associated with a history of lupus or hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS), and the use of clopidogrel or mammalian target of rapamycin inhibitors (mTORi). Specifically, chronic TMA was significantly associated with use of mTORi in native kidneys. The odds of chronic TMA compared to acute TMA were lower for each race (Caucasians, 76%; Blacks, 38%; Hispanics and Asians, 22%).
Conclusions: A kidney biopsy may not necessarily be needed to determine the presence of chronic TMA, since certain predictors, as those demonstrated by our study (use of mTORi and history of lupus or HUS), independently predicted higher odds of developing chronic TMA and its sequelae conditions.
Systematic ultrasound evaluation of olfactory sulci in fetuses with congenital heart defects: a clue for CHARGE syndrome diagnosis.
Authors: Charach Ron , Pérez-Cruz Míriam , Masoller Narcis , Illa Míriam , Monterde Elena , Martínez-Crespo Josep Maria , Borrell Antoni , Gómez-Chiari Marta , Rebollo Polo Mónica , Borregan Mar , Gómez Olga , Eixarch Elisenda
Published: January 2025

Objectives: This study aimed to assess the role of olfactory sulci (OS) in diagnosing CHARGE syndrome among fetuses with major congenital heart defects (CHDs).

Methods: We prospectively evaluated OS development in fetuses diagnosed with CHDs from 2017 to 2021. Neurosonography (NSG) was performed using transabdominal and transvaginal approaches after 30 weeks of gestation. OS assessment was conducted in the trans-frontal coronal plane, classifying their appearance as fully developed, hypoplastic, or absent. Abnormal OS cases underwent MRI and trio-based clinical exome sequencing (CES).

Results: The study included 147 fetuses with CHD. Abnormal OS were found in 4 fetuses (2.7%) which also exhibited other additional anomalies. OS were absent in cases 1-3 and hypoplastic in case 4.. MRI confirmed OS abnormalities in all cases, and trio-based CES identified a CHD7 gene mutation in cases 1, 2, and 4, supporting the diagnosis of CHARGE syndrome. Case 3 had normal trio-based CES results. No other CHARGE syndrome cases were diagnosed postnatally among the cases with normal OS.

Conclusions: Systematic evaluation of OS in fetuses with major CHD might contribute to the diagnosis of CHARGE syndrome. Our findings support the inclusion of OS assessment in the prenatal evaluation of fetuses with major CHDs.
Efficacy of Spray Cryotherapy on Airway Secretions in Canine Models of Chronic Bronchitis and Mechanism Insights
Authors: Wang Bingbing , Duan Hongxia , Li Xuan , Long Xuan , Xie Shuanshuan , Wang Changhui
Published: January 2025

Introduction
Bronchoscopic spray cryotherapy (SCT) is a novel treatment showing promise for chronic bronchitis (CB), characterized by excessive mucus secretion and productive cough. A large animal model for preclinical research of SCT is lacking, and its treatment's efficacy and mechanisms for CB are not well understood.
Methods
Eight Labradors were exposed to 200 ppm SO2 for 6 months to develop a CB model. Evaluations included pulmonary resistance, bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF), CT images, and pathology. After model validation, six dogs received SCT and were observed for short-term (7 days) and long-term (30 days) outcomes. Metrics included pulmonary resistance, bronchoscopy findings, and BALF analysis for inflammatory factors, acetylcholine, and mucins. Bronchial tissue was assessed via HE staining, electron microscopy, and IHC staining. BEAS-2B cells were used to study MUC5AC expression in response to LPS and acetylcholine.
Results
SO2 exposure led to persistent cough, increased pulmonary resistance, goblet cell hyperplasia, and inflammation. Mucin, MUC5AC, and MUC5B levels in BALF increased over time, which validated the CB model. SCT treatment reduced mucus and pulmonary resistance, improved bronchial structure, and decreased goblet cells. SCT significantly reduced BALF mucin, MUC5AC, MUC5B, acetylcholine, IL-6, INF-γ, TNF-α, and IL-10, and bronchial MUC5AC and CHRM3. In the LPS treatment BEAS-2B cells, MUC5AC expression increased when acetylcholine pretreatment concentration increased.
Conclusion
The SO2 inhalation protocol effectively establishes a CB model in dogs. SCT effectively treats CB by reducing mucin levels and may lower MUC5AC expression by decreasing acetylcholine and CHRM3.
Felix A. Conte, MD 1935-2024. The endocrinologist’s endocrinologist
Authors: Miller Walter L. , Rosenthal Stephen M. , Gitelman Stephen E. , Lustig Robert H. , Styne Dennis M.
Published: January 2025

is not a required field for Obituaries
Produzindo e reproduzindo: parentesco e nomeação
Authors: Vicente André Luiz Coutinho
Published: January 2025

This article is part of my master's research dedicated to the study of naming, bureaucracies and the notion of Person. Here I describe and analyse how different symbolic elements interact in family configurations to produce and locate children in the webs of kinship. Elements of negotiation, memory or homage to the dead, forbidden names, names altered in the light of the way in which the pregnancy developed, etc. During my research, I was interested in finding out what led to the choice of certain names for children. These give us elements to think about the dynamics of kinship and its production. It is from two of these ‘causos’ that I try to unfold analyses of symbolism, imagery, projection, the gestation process, memories, affiliations and the location of this child in a particular part of the family. Finally, since naming is an obligation, I discuss the implications for the dynamics of kinship production when mothers/fathers don't name.
Do Ritual ao Itinerário Terapêutico em HIV/aids: Dona Nadine e suas idas de Rio Tinto/PB aos serviços especializados em João Pessoa
Authors: Moraes Gabriel Cavalcante Bueno de
Published: January 2025

Este trabalho diz respeito a uma pesquisa etnográfica realizada no município de Rio Tinto, litoral norte paraibano, com Dona Nadine, uma mulher indígena potiguara de 60 anos que há 16 vive com HIV. Partindo da literatura de processos rituais, especialmente aquelas dispostas por Victor Turner (2014:2015) e Van Gennep (1978), procuro compreender como este se aplica nos itinerários terapêuticos em HIV/aids de Dona Nadine, que para buscar sua medicação antirretroviral, consultar com médicos e quaisquer outros exames envolvendo sua sorologia, precisa se locomover até a capital paraibana (João Pessoa). Esse trâmite reflete numa remodelação estrutural que evoca o conceito de liminaridade (Turner, 2015), propondo não apenas uma intensificação na teia de agentes, mas anunciando velhos dilemas permeados na história das pessoas vivendo com HIV: sujeição, território e doença.
A Casa De Reza como a escola tradicional do povo Guarani
Authors: Ciochetti Vitor Miranda
Published: January 2025

A literatura clássica da Etnologia identificou a religião como locus da produção das identidades dos povos Guarani. Neste trabalho, se propõe a compreender como esse paradigma se atualiza contemporaneamente na esfera pública brasileira nos discursos de certas lideranças, intelectuais e educadores Guarani, produzindo um sentido específico em relação às suas lutas políticas pelo direito à educação e à diferença cultural e étnico-racial. Tomando as categorias “religião”, “cultura” e “educação” sob rasura, tem-se como objetivo analisar três conjuntos de materiais que, a partir de determinados cenários de visibilidade, produzem um sentido público sobre a identidade Guarani. De modo específico, propõe-se a pensar como essa identidade é produzida discursivamente em relação à Opy, a “Casa de Reza”, entendida como elemento central da cultura desse povo, ao mesmo tempo em que se produz como um dispositivo de visibilidade pública de suas lutas políticas, em defesa de uma educação específica e diferenciada.
El áfurugu etnógrafo: reflexiones metodológicas a partir de experiencias con la musicalidad garífuna
Authors: Perez Guarnieri Augusto
Published: January 2025

O artigo explora e reformula o conceito de bimusiqualidade na etnomusicologia, focando em sua relevância para o estudo de culturas áudio-orientadas, apresentando como estudo de caso as experiências do autor com a população garífuna de Livingston, Guatemala. Através de um relato etnográfico e uma revisão bibliográfica sobre os principais marcos teóricos em que se gera essa prática metodológica, propõe uma reformulação da bimusicidade, considerando que não apenas implica a capacidade técnica de tocar instrumentos, analisar e/ou compreender a linguagem musical nativa, mas requer um entendimento profundo do complexo tecido de significados culturais em que a música se insere. O texto sugere abordar o campo através da observação-escuta participante de musicalidades culturalmente diferenciadas, destacando a importância da experiência direta para acessar o conhecimento cultural de uma comunidade. Combinando conceitos da antropologia interpretativa e lógica nativa, também propõe o conceito do áfurugu como uma forma de integrar a memória, a emoção e a música na narrativa etnográfica. O artigo defende uma metodologia que promova um conhecimento musical experiencial e intersubjetivo, capaz de superar as limitações da observação passiva e da transcrição descontextualizada.
Setembro Surdo – etnografando um circuito de eventos
Authors: Martins Gabriel Pigozzo Tanus Cherp
Published: January 2025

September is a significant month for Brazilian deaf people. Throughout the month, numerous events take place that celebrate Brazilian Sign Language (Libras), deaf culture and identities. Accessibility, inclusion, bilingualism, history, politics, sports, education, among others, are topics that are discussed and debated at these events. The objective of this ethnography was to cover a circuit of three events that took place in Juiz de Fora - MG in 2022 that celebrated Deaf September. We were able to observe that there is still little real discussion on issues that interest deaf people and a deaf visibility and protagonism that is erased by hearing people who lead some movements. In fact, these are events that aim more at socialization than a field of struggles and demands.
Novos horizontes do desejo
Authors: Varjão João Victtor Gomes , Arruda Murilo Souza
Published: January 2025

The dossier New Horizons of Desire, organized by João Victtor Gomes Varjão and Murilo Souza Arruda, explores intersections between sexuality, desire, and territoriality in global and local contexts. Bringing together translations of contemporary articles, it addresses topics such as intimate labor, sexual performances, and the political implications of sexuality. The text includes analyses like that of Amalia L. Cabezas, who examines affective-sexual economies in Cuba and the Dominican Republic, highlighting how transnational tourism reshapes intimacy and labor. Moisés Lino e Silva proposes the concept of "ethnographic striptease" to understand queer sexuality in Rio de Janeiro's Rocinha Favela, emphasizing the tension between scientific rigor and subjectivity. Vaibhav Saria analyzes sexual relationships between hijras and men in rural India, subverting cultural norms of gender and sexuality through humor and narrative. By connecting bodies, desires, and territories, the authors highlight affective-sexual practices as strategies of agency and re-signification within contexts of global inequality.
Insurgências etnográficas
Authors: Lopes Pedro , Varjão João Victtor Gomes , Fiori Ana Letícia de
Published: January 2025

Em nosso número 32.2, a Ponto Urbe apresenta ao público leitor um instigante conjunto de textos, entre as seções de Artigos, Etnográfica, Ensaio Fotográfico, Entrevista, Tradução e Dossiês. Pelas diferentes trilhas de cada contribuição, seguimos com a confiança da etnografia como perspectiva potente para a análise do social, bem como ferramenta para insurgências. Nesta edição, reunimos trabalhos sobre ciências, artes e políticas, sobre saberes tradicionais, afetos e moralidades. Contamos com relatos etnográficos do Setembro Surdo em Juiz de Fora, em ensaio fotográfico de feitio autobiográfico que transborda também para nossa capa, uma entrevista com a  pesquisadora Claudia Alexandre, a tradução de um texto clássico de Lewis Morgan e um dossiê sobre "Antropologia da Música" e um que aborda "Novos horizontes do desejo". Boa leitura a todes.