bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Upgrading the Bomb: Why and How the US Provides Advanced Nuclear Assistance to Junior Allies
Authors: Lee Do Young
Published: April 2023

Why and how does the US provide advanced nuclear assistance to junior nuclear allies? Existing nuclear literature downplays the possibility that the US strategically employs the technical assistance option as a post-proliferation toolkit to control allied nuclear proliferation. Addressing the first question—why—I argue that the US provides advanced nuclear assistance to junior allies to inhibit the latter’s growing tendency towards unilateralism after nuclear acquisition, meanwhile inducing greater allied nuclear coordination. By forging advanced nuclear partnerships, the US seeks simultaneously to draw junior allies closer to the American nuclear leadership and establish coordinated nuclear strike plans and joint nuclear targeting. Addressing the second question—how—I claim that the US provides advanced nuclear assistance at a protracted pace and in a restricted manner, calculated to exert influence over recipient junior allies for as long as possible. To provide the plausibility probe of my argument, I explore two historical cases: The US’s strategic advanced nuclear assistance to the UK and to France. I conclude by identifying avenues for future study and the policy implications for China’s potential response to North Korea’s nuclear sophistication.
Degree-day-based model to predict egg hatching of Philaenus spumarius (Hemiptera: Aphrophoridae), the main vector of Xylella fastidiosa in Europe
Authors: Lago Clara , Giménez-Romero Àlex , Morente Marina , Matías Manuel A , Moreno Aránzazu , Fereres Alberto
Published: April 2023

Philaenus spumarius L., the main vector of Xylella fastidiosa (Wells) in Europe, is a univoltine species that overwinters in the egg stage, and its nymphs emerge in late winter or spring. Predicting the time of egg hatching is essential for determining the precise times for deploying control strategies against insect pests. Here, we monitored P. spumarius eggs from oviposition to egg hatching together with the daily temperatures and relative humidities at four field locations that were located at different altitudes in central Spain. The collected data were used to build a growing degree day (GDD) model to forecast egg hatching in the Iberian Peninsula. Furthermore, the model was validated with field observations that were conducted in Spain. The model was then used as a decision-support tool to calculate the optimum timing for applying control actions against P. spumarius. Our results suggest that controlling nymphs at two different dates would target the highest percentages of nymphal populations present in the field. Our model represents a first step for predicting the emergence of nymphs and adopting timely control actions against P. spumarius. These actions could limit disease spread in areas where X. fastidiosa is present.
Quantifying the fraction of new mutations that are recessive lethal
Authors: Wade Emma E , Kyriazis Christopher C , Cavassim Maria Izabel A , Lohmueller Kirk E
Published: April 2023

The presence and impact of recessive lethal mutations have been widely documented in diploid outcrossing species. However, precise estimates of the proportion of new mutations that are recessive lethal remain limited. Here, we evaluate the performance of Fit∂a∂i, a commonly used method for inferring the distribution of fitness effects (DFE), in the presence of lethal mutations. Using simulations, we demonstrate that in both additive and recessive cases, inference of the deleterious nonlethal portion of the DFE is minimally affected by a small proportion (<10%) of lethal mutations. Additionally, we demonstrate that while Fit∂a∂i cannot estimate the fraction of recessive lethal mutations, Fit∂a∂i can accurately infer the fraction of additive lethal mutations. Finally, as an alternative approach to estimate the proportion of mutations that are recessive lethal, we employ models of mutation–selection–drift balance using existing genomic parameters and estimates of segregating recessive lethals for humans and Drosophila melanogaster. In both species, the segregating recessive lethal load can be explained by a very small fraction (<1%) of new nonsynonymous mutations being recessive lethal. Our results refute recent assertions of a much higher proportion of mutations being recessive lethal (4%–5%), while highlighting the need for additional information on the joint distribution of selection and dominance coefficients.
Impact of in situ solar irradiation on snow bacterial communities and functional potential
Authors: Sanchez-Cid Concepcion , Keuschnig Christoph , Vogel Timothy M , Larose Catherine
Published: April 2023

Polar regions are increasingly exposed to ultraviolet light due to ozone depletion. Snowpacks contain photochemically active particles that, when irradiated, can lead to the production and accumulation of reactive species that can induce oxidative stress on snow microorganisms. This could generate a selective pressure on snowpack bacteria. In this study, snow microcosms were buried in a snowpack at Ny-Ålesund (Svalbard), either exposed to solar irradiation or incubated in the dark for 10 days, and the bacterial response to solar irradiation was evaluated in situ using a metagenomics approach. Solar irradiation induced a significant decrease in bacterial abundance and richness. Genes involved in glutathione synthesis, sulphur metabolism, and multidrug efflux were significantly enriched in the light, whereas genes related to cell wall assembly and nutrient uptake were more abundant in the dark. This is the first study demonstrating the response of snow bacterial communities to solar irradiation in situ and providing insights into the mechanisms involved. Our research shows that polar sun irradiation is sufficiently intense to impose a selective pressure on snow bacteria and supports the concern that increased ultraviolet exposure due to anthropogenic activities and climatic change could drive critical changes in the structure and functioning of snow bacterial communities.
The Whole Genome ofColletes collaris(Hymenoptera: Colletidae): An Important Step in Comparative Genomics of Cellophane Bees
Authors: Ferrari Rafael R , Batista Thiago M , Zhou Qing-Song , Hilário Heron O , Orr Michael C , Luo Arong , Zhu Chao-Dong
Published: April 2023

Gaining knowledge on bees is of the utmost importance due to the paramount role that they play in angiosperm pollination. Herein, we provide the first genome assembly of Colletes collaris, a pan-Eurasian cellophane bee. We sequenced 50.53 Gbp of long-read data plus 57.36 Gbp of short-read data in Oxford Nanopore Technologies and Illumina platforms, respectively. The genome assembly consisted of 374.75 Mbp distributed across 374 contigs, with L50 and N50 of 9 and 8.96 Mbp, respectively. We predicted the genome to comprise 20,399 protein-coding genes, 467,947 repeats, and 4,315 non-coding RNA genes. The transcriptome and mitochondrial genome of the species were also assembled. Gene family analysis with 15 insect species identified 14,417 families, 9,517 of them found in C. collaris. A dated phylogenomic analysis revealed high numbers of orthogroups experiencing rapid evolution within Colletes.
Mapping the Characteristics of Foreign Investment Screening Mechanisms: The New PRISM Dataset
Authors: Bauerle Danzman Sarah , Meunier Sophie
Published: April 2023

Since the 2008 financial crisis, many advanced industrialized economies, while eager to attract foreign direct investment (FDI), have also implemented or tightened investment screening mechanisms (ISMs), which empower governments to restrict foreign takeovers. ISMs, at the nexus between international political economy and international security, are an understudied phenomenon, although they have recently gained in policy prominence worldwide as a result of emerging technological risks and new threat actors. This research note introduces the Politics and Regulation of Investment Screening Mechanisms dataset, a newly coded dataset on ISMs in Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) countries from 2007 to 2021, examining the evolution of seven key features of investment screening over time. Based on these novel data, we then describe patterns in the evolution of foreign investment screening policies. Next, we consider likely applications of the dataset to answer questions about the politics of investment as well as broader questions of economic exchange and institutional design in an age of great power competition—including by providing some initial statistical exercises on the relationship between Chinese FDI and R&D spending on ISM features. Finally, we suggest how investment screening fits within the new arsenal of unilateral instruments of economic statecraft currently being developed by liberal democracies.
Implementation research for promoting access and rational use of antibiotics for children: lessons learnt from Tanzania
Authors: Bwire George M , Kibwana Upendo O , Nkinda Lilian , Maganda Betty A , Mganga Mathew , Nshau Arapha Bashir , Williams Oliver , Midega Janet , Nyankesha Elevanie , Scherpbier Robert W
Published: April 2023

Implementation research (IR) has proved to be a potential catalyst in facilitating the uptake of evidence-based innovations into routine practices and thereby maximizing public health outcomes. IR not only focuses on the effectiveness of the innovations but also identifies and addresses the barriers and facilitators to maximize their uptake into routine practices. This article describes the processes undertaken to implement a research project aimed at promoting access and rational use of antibiotics for children (PARAC). It also provides an overview of the lessons learnt during its implementation in Tanzanian hospital and community settings.
Non-redundant functionality of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum phospho-β-glucosidases revealed by carbohydrate utilization signatures associated to pbg2 and pbg4 gene mutants
Authors: Plaza-Vinuesa Laura , Sánchez-Arroyo Ana , López de Felipe Félix , de las Rivas Blanca , Muñoz Rosario
Published: April 2023

Aim

To increase our knowledge on the functionality of 6-phospho-β-glucosidases linked to phosphoenolpyruvate-dependent phosphotransferase systems (PTS) that are encountered in high redundancy in the Lactiplantibacillus plantarum WCFS1 genome.

Methods and Results

Two L. plantarum WCFS1 gene mutants that lacked one of the 6-phospho-β-glucosidases, ∆pbg2 (or ∆lp_0906) or ∆pbg4 (or ∆lp_2777) were constructed and the metabolic impact of these mutations assessed by high-throughput phenotyping (Omnilog). The ∆pbg2 mutant displayed a reduced metabolic performance, having lost the capacity to utilize 20 out of 57 carbon (C)-sources used by the wild-type strain. Conversely, the ∆pbg4 mutant conserved the capacity to metabolize most of the C-sources preferred by the wild type strain. This mutant utilized 56 C-sources albeit the range of substrates used and hence its metabolic profiling differed from that of the WCFS1 strain. The ∆pbg2 mutant notably reduced or abolished the capacity to metabolize substrates related to pentose and glucoronate interconversions and was unable to assimilate fatty acids or nucleosides as sole C-sources for growth. The ∆pbg4 mutant acquired the capacity to utilize efficiently glycogen, indicating an efficient supply of glucose from this source.

Conclusion

Lactiplantibacillus plantarum gene mutants that lack individual 6-phospho-β-glucosidases display very different carbohydrate utilization signatures showing that these enzymes can be crucial to determine the capacity of L. plantarum to consume different C-sources and hence for the nutrition and physiology of this microorganism.
Bubbles and Stagnation
Authors: Xavier Inês
Published: April 2023

This paper studies the consequences of asset bubbles for economies that are vulnerable to persistent stagnation. Stagnation is the result of a shortage of assets that creates an oversupply of savings and puts downward pressure on the level of interest rates. Once the zero lower bound on the nominal interest rate binds, the real rate cannot adjust further downward, forcing output to fall instead. In such context, bubbles are useful as they expand the supply of assets, absorb excess savings, and raise the natural interest rate—the real rate that is compatible with full employment—crowding in consumption and raising welfare. However, a risky bubble that can collapse with positive probability is smaller and less effective in doing so than a safe bubble. In this case, fiscal policy in the form of promised bailout transfers in case of a bubble collapse, can support an existing bubble and improve its size.
Chitin oligomers promote lymphoid innate and adaptive immune cell activation
Authors: Maia Ana , Cardona Gloria Yamel , Fuchs Katharina , Chang Tzu-Hsuan , Engels Pujan , Zhou Min , Hinnenthal Timo , Rusch Elisa , Gouttefangeas Cécile , Weber Alexander N R
Published: April 2023

Chitin is a highly abundant N-acetylglucosamine polysaccharide that has been linked to immune responses in the context of fungal infections and allergic asthma, especially to T helper 2 immune responses. Unfortunately, due to the frequent use of crude chitin preparations of unknown purity and degree of polymerization, there is still great uncertainty about how chitin activates different parts of the human immune system. We recently identified chitin oligomers of 6 N-acetylglucosamine units as the smallest immunologically active chitin motif and the innate immune receptor TLR2 as a primary chitin sensor on human and murine myeloid cells, but the response of further immune cells (e.g. lymphoid cells) to oligomeric chitin has not been investigated. Our analysis of primary human immune cells now shows that chitin oligomers activate immune responses of both innate and adaptive lymphocytes: notably, chitin oligomers activated natural killer cells but not B lymphocytes. Moreover, chitin oligomers induced maturation of dendritic cells and enabled potent CD8+ T-cell recall responses. Our results suggest that chitin oligomers not only trigger immediate innate responses in a limited range of myeloid cells but also exert critical activities across the entire human immune system. This highlights chitin oligomer immune activation as an interesting and broadly applicable potential target for both adjuvant development and therapeutic interference in chitin-mediated pathologies.
Seasonal activity patterns of host-seeking Ixodes scapularis (Acari: Ixodidae) in Minnesota, 2015–2017
Authors: Burtis James C , Bjork Jenna , Johnson Tammi L , Schiffman Elizabeth , Neitzel David , Eisen Rebecca J
Published: April 2023

As the primary vector of Lyme disease spirochetes and several other medically significant pathogens, Ixodes scapularis presents a threat to public health in the United States. The incidence of Lyme disease is growing rapidly in upper midwestern states, particularly Michigan, Minnesota, and Wisconsin. The probability of a tick bite, acarological risk, is affected by the phenology of host-seeking I. scapularis. Phenology has been well-studied in northeastern states, but not in the Upper Midwest. We conducted biweekly drag sampling across 4 woodland sites in Minnesota between April and November from 2015 to 2017. The majority of ticks collected were I. scapularis (82%). Adults were active throughout our entire 8-month collection season, with sporadic activity during the summer, larger peaks in activity observed in April, and less consistent and lower peaks observed in October. Nymphs were most active from May through August, with continuing low-level activity in October, and peak activity most commonly observed in June. The observed nymphal peak corresponded with the typical peak in reported human Lyme disease and anaplasmosis cases. These findings are consistent with previous studies from the Upper Midwest and highlight a risk of human exposure to I. scapularis at least from April through November. This information may aid in communicating the seasonality of acarological risk for those living in Minnesota and other upper midwestern states as well as being relevant to the assessment of the ecoepidemiology of Lyme disease and the modeling of transmission dynamics.
Polyarteritis nodosa: a case report of isolated large bowel involvement and surgical intervention
Authors: Sellyn Georgina E , Kapil Neil , Pabla Baldeep , Rahman Mujeeb Ur , Khan Aimal
Published: April 2023

Polyarteritis nodosa (PAN) is a necrotizing vasculitis commonly affecting small-sized vessels and medium-sized vessels. We present the case of surgical resection for ischemic colitis secondary to PAN. A 26-year-old woman presented with left lower quadrant pain, diarrhea and bloody stools. Colonoscopy showed diffuse circumferential ulceration and necrotic lining from the sigmoid colon to the splenic flexure. A subsequent computed tomography angiography (CTA) revealed left colonic wall thickening, hypoenhancement and multiple inferior mesenteric artery aneurysms, concerning for vasculitis. Ensuing laboratory workup all returned negative. Worsening pain, left-sided peritonitis, tachycardia and rising white blood cell necessitated a colectomy from the proximal descending to upper rectum with an end colostomy. Surgical pathology showed features consistent with PAN. The patient improved significantly after surgery and was discharged on a steroid taper and later started on mycophenolate mofetil. This case is a unique presentation of isolated large intestinal involvement and was treated with both medical and surgical interventions.
Norovirus acute gastroenteritis amongst US and European travellers to areas of moderate to high risk of travellers’ diarrhoea: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Alberer Martin , Moe Christine L , Hatz Christoph , Kling Kerstin , Kirby Amy E , Lindsay Lisa , Nothdurft Hans D , Riera-Montes Margarita , Steffen Robert , Verstraeten Thomas , Wu Henry M , DuPont Herbert L
Published: April 2023

Background

Acute gastroenteritis (AGE) is a major medical condition for travellers worldwide, particularly travellers to low- and middle-income countries. Norovirus (NoV) is the most common cause of viral AGE in older children and adults, but data on prevalence and impact amongst travellers is limited.

Methods

Prospective, multi-site, observational cohort study conducted 2015–2017, amongst adult international travellers from the US and Europe to areas of moderate to high risk of travel-acquired AGE. Participants provided self-collected pre-travel stool samples and self-reported AGE symptoms whilst travelling. Post-travel stool samples were requested from symptomatic subjects and a sample of asymptomatic travellers within 14 days of return. Samples were tested for NoV by RT-qPCR, genotyped if positive and tested for other common enteric pathogens by Luminex xTAG GPP.

Results

Of the 1109 participants included, 437 (39.4%) developed AGE symptoms resulting in an overall AGE incidence of 24.7 per 100 person-weeks [95% confidence interval (CI): 22.4; 27.1]. In total, 20 NoV-positive AGE cases (5.2% of those tested) were identified at an incidence of 1.1 per 100 person-weeks (95% CI: 0.7; 1.7). NoV-positive samples belonged mostly to genogroup GII (18, 85.7%); None of the 13 samples sequenced belonged to genotype GII.4. Clinical severity of AGE was higher for NoV-positive than for NoV-negative cases (mean modified Vesikari Score 6.8 vs 4.9) with more cases classified as severe or moderate (25% vs 6.8%). In total, 80% of NoV-positive participants (vs 38.9% in NoV-negative) reported at least moderate impact on travel plans.

Conclusions

AGE is a prevalent disease amongst travellers with a small proportion associated with NoV. Post-travel stool sample collection timing might have influenced the low number of NoV cases detected; however, NoV infections resulted in high clinical severity and impact on travel plans. These results may contribute to targeted vaccine development and the design of future studies on NoV epidemiology.
Disruption of CHORISMATE SYNTHASE1 leads to yellow-green variegation in soybean leaves
Authors: Zhu Xiaobin , Zheng Kaijie , Lu Lei , Yu Hui , Wang Fawei , Yang Xinjing , Akhter Bhat Javaid , Zhao Beifang , Wang Yi , Li Haiyan , Yang Suxin , Feng Xianzhong
Published: April 2023

Yellow-green variegation leaf phenotype adds more value to ornamental plants, but it is regarded as an undesirable trait in crop plants, affecting their yields. Until recently, the underlying mechanism regulating the yellow-green variegation phenotype has remained largely unexplored in soybean. In the present study, we indentified four Glycine max leaf yellow/green variegation mutants, Gmvar1, Gmvar2, Gmvar3, and Gmvar4, from artificial mutagenesis populations. Map-based cloning, together with the allelic identification test and CRISPR-based gene knockout, proved that mutated GmCS1 controls yellow-green variegation phenotype of the Gmvar mutants. GmCS1 encodes a chorismate synthase in soybean. The content of Phe, Tyr, and Trp were dramatically decreased in Gmcs1 mutants. Exogenous supply of three aromatic amino acid mixtures, or only Phe to Gmvar mutants, leads to recovery of the mutant phenotype. The various biological processes and signalling pathways related to metabolism and biosynthesis were altered in Gmvar mutants. Collectively, our findings provide new insights about the molecular regulatory network of yellow-green variegation leaf phenotype in soybean.
Assessing theoretical uncertainties for cosmological constraints from weak lensing surveys
Authors: Tan Ting , Zürcher Dominik , Fluri Janis , Refregier Alexandre , Tarsitano Federica , Kacprzak Tomasz
Published: April 2023

Weak gravitational lensing is a powerful probe, which is used to constrain the standard cosmological model and its extensions. With the enhanced statistical precision of current and upcoming surveys, high-accuracy predictions for weak lensing statistics are needed to limit the impact of theoretical uncertainties on cosmological parameter constraints. For this purpose, we present a comparison of the theoretical predictions for the non-linear matter and weak lensing power spectra, based on the widely used fitting functions ($\texttt {mead}$ and $\texttt {rev-halofit}$ ), emulators ($\texttt {EuclidEmulator}$ , $\texttt {EuclidEmulator2}$ , $\texttt {BaccoEmulator}$ , and $\texttt {CosmicEmulator}$ ), and N-body simulations (pkdgrav3). We consider the forecasted constraints on the $\Lambda \texttt {CDM}$ and $\texttt {wCDM}$ models from weak lensing for stage III and stage IV surveys. We study the relative bias on the constraints and their dependence on the assumed prescriptions. Assuming a $\Lambda \texttt {CDM}$ cosmology, we find that the relative agreement on the S8 parameter is between 0.2 and 0.3σ for a stage III-like survey between the above predictors. For a stage IV-like survey the agreement becomes 1.4–3.0σ. In the $\texttt {wCDM}$ scenario, we find broader S8 constraints, and agreements of 0.18–0.26σ and 0.7–1.7σ for stage III and stage IV surveys, respectively. The accuracies of the above predictors therefore appear adequate for stage III surveys, whereas the fitting functions would need improvements for future stage IV surveys. Furthermore, we find that, of the fitting functions, $\texttt {mead}$ provides the best agreement with the emulators. We discuss the implication of these findings for the preparation of future weak lensing surveys, and the relative impact of theoretical uncertainties to other systematics.
Stability of galaxies across morphological sequence
Authors: Aditya K
Published: April 2023

We investigate the stability of nearby disc galaxies and galaxies at redshift (z) equal to 4.5. We explore the connection between the stability parameter (QRW), star formation rate (SFR), gas fraction (fGas), and the time-scale for growth of gravitational instabilities (τ). We find that, despite differences in morphology 91 per cent of the nearby galaxies have a minimum value of stability parameter ($Q^{Min}_{RW}$) greater than 1 indicating stability against the growth of axisymmetric instabilities. The spirals in our sample have higher median star formation rate, lower median QRW, a lower fGas and small time scale for growth of gravitational instabilities than irregular galaxies. We find that the gravitational instabilities in spirals convert a large fraction of gas into stars quickly, depleting the gas reservoirs. On the other hand, star formation occurs more gradually over longer time-scales in irregulars with a higher gas fraction. We then compare the stability of the nearby galaxies with galaxies at $z\, =\, 4.5$. We find that net stability levels in the nearby galaxies and the galaxies at $z\, =\, 4.5$ are primarily driven by the stellar disc suggesting the presence of an inherent mechanism that self-regulates the stability. Finally, upon removing the contribution of the dark matter to the total potential, the median QRW for the nearby galaxies and galaxies at $z \, = \, 4.5$ remains unchanged indicating that the baryons can self-regulate the stability levels, at least in a statistical sense.
Guess the cheese flavour by the size of its holes: a cosmological test using the abundance of popcorn voids
Authors: Paz Dante J , Correa Carlos M , Gualpa Sebastiín R , Ruiz Andres N , Bederián Carlos S , Graña R Dario , Padilla Nelson D
Published: April 2023

We present a new definition of cosmic void and a publicly available code with the algorithm that implements it. Underdense regions are defined as free-form objects, called popcorn voids, made from the union of spheres of maximum volume with a given joint integrated underdensity contrast. The method is inspired by the excursion-set theory and consequently no rescaling processing is needed, the removal of overlapping voids and objects with sizes below the shot noise threshold is inherent in the algorithm. The abundance of popcorn voids in the matter field can be fitted using the excursion-set theory provided the relationship between the linear density contrast of the barrier and the threshold used in void identification is modified relative to the spherical evolution model. We also analysed the abundance of voids in biased tracer samples in redshift space. We show how the void abundance can be used to measure the geometric distortions due to the assumed fiducial cosmology, in a test similar to an Alcock–Paczyński test. Using the formalism derived from previous works, we show how to correct the abundance of popcorn voids for redshift-space distortion effects. Using this treatment, in combination with the excursion-set theory, we demonstrate the feasibility of void abundance measurements as cosmological probes. We obtain unbiased estimates of the target parameters, albeit with large degeneracies in the parameter space. Therefore, we conclude that the proposed test in combination with other cosmological probes has potential to improve current cosmological parameter constraints.
Diffusion basis spectrum imaging as an adjunct to conventional MRI leads to earlier diagnosis of high-grade glioma tumor progression versus treatment effect
Authors: Han Rowland H , Johanns Tanner M , Roberts Kaleigh F , Tao Yu , Luo Jingqin , Ye Zezhong , Sun Peng , Blum Jacob , Lin Tsen-Hsuan , Song Sheng-Kwei , Kim Albert H
Published: April 2023

Background

Following chemoradiotherapy for high-grade glioma (HGG), it is often challenging to distinguish treatment changes from true tumor progression using conventional MRI. The diffusion basis spectrum imaging (DBSI) hindered fraction is associated with tissue edema or necrosis, which are common treatment-related changes. We hypothesized that DBSI hindered fraction may augment conventional imaging for earlier diagnosis of progression versus treatment effect.

Methods

Adult patients were prospectively recruited if they had a known histologic diagnosis of HGG and completed standard-of-care chemoradiotherapy. DBSI and conventional MRI data were acquired longitudinally beginning 4 weeks post-radiation. Conventional MRI and DBSI metrics were compared with respect to their ability to diagnose progression versus treatment effect.

Results

Twelve HGG patients were enrolled between August 2019 and February 2020, and 9 were ultimately analyzed (5 progression, 4 treatment effect). Within new or enlarging contrast-enhancing regions, DBSI hindered fraction was significantly higher in the treatment effect group compared to progression group (P = .0004). Compared to serial conventional MRI alone, inclusion of DBSI would have led to earlier diagnosis of either progression or treatment effect in 6 (66.7%) patients by a median of 7.7 (interquartile range = 0–20.1) weeks.

Conclusions

In the first longitudinal prospective study of DBSI in adult HGG patients, we found that in new or enlarging contrast-enhancing regions following therapy, DBSI hindered fraction is elevated in cases of treatment effect compared to those with progression. Hindered fraction map may be a valuable adjunct to conventional MRI to distinguish tumor progression from treatment effect.
A Nationally Representative Study of the Hardening Hypothesis Among Educational Groups Over Four Decades
Authors: Ruokolainen Otto , Piirtola Maarit , Korhonen Tellervo , Rahkonen Ossi , Härkänen Tommi
Published: April 2023

Introduction

As smoking prevalence has decreased, there has been debate about “hardening” (smokers are more resistant to established tobacco control measures) or “softening” (smokers are more responsive to interventions) of the remaining smoking population. Despite growing evidence to reject the “hardening” hypothesis, there is lack of long-term population-based studies to test this hypothesis by educational level.

Aims and Methods

Repeated cross-sectional population-based surveys during 1978–2014 and in 2018 were utilized. The target population consisted of ~5000 25–64-year-old Finns annually. The data included 109 257 respondents of which 53 351 ever-smoking individuals were included in the analyses. Response rates varied between 84% and 43%. Five hardening indicators considering smoking frequency, intensity and smoking cessation were used as the dependent variables. The main independent variable was study year (time). Statistical analyses were based on regression models using restricted cubic splines by educational level.

Results

Contrary to the hardening hypothesis, hardening indicators showed softening over time among all educational groups. However, educational groups differed from each other. Compared with the highly educated, the quit ratio was lower, number of cigarettes per day (CPD) was higher, the proportions of daily smokers among current smokers and heavy smokers among daily smokers were higher among the less educated.

Conclusions

In accordance with growing evidence, also the Finnish smoking population has “softened” over time. Although the change has been predominantly in the same direction for all educational groups, the rate of change has been stronger among the highly educated, highlighting the continued burden of smoking among the less educated.

Implications

Even though “softening” of smoking has occurred, lighter smoking also poses health risks. Therefore, tobacco control policies and cessation services should be developed and targeted to a greater extent also for people who smoke less than daily and for those who smoke fewer CPD. Furthermore, interventions should focus on special requirements of the lower educational groups to promote health equity.
Human Capital Development Factors and Black Adolescent Tobacco and Cannabis Use
Authors: Jacobs Wura , Lu Wenhua , McDonald Andrea , Yang Joshua S
Published: April 2023

Introduction

This study examined the association of four domains of human capital development (cognitive development, social and emotional development, physical health, and mental health) and exclusive and concurrent tobacco and cannabis use (TCU) among black youth.

Aims and Methods

Nationally representative annual cross-sectional data for black adolescents (12–17 years; N = 9017) in the National Survey on Drug Use and Health 2015–2019 were analyzed. Analyses examined the influence of human capital factors (cognitive development, social and emotional development, physical health, and mental health) on exclusive and concurrent TCU.

Results

In total, 50.4% were males; prevalence of 12-month tobacco use fluctuated insignificantly between 5.6% and 7.6% across survey years. Similarly, prevalence of 12-month cannabis use remained relatively stable around 13%, with no significant linear change. Prevalence of concurrent TCU also fluctuated insignificantly between 3.5% and 5.3%. Investment in cognitive development decreased the odds of tobacco (aOR = 0.58, p < .001), cannabis (aOR = 0.64, p < .001), and concurrent tobacco and cannabis (aOR = 0.58, p < .001) use. Similarly, investment in social and emotional development reduced the odds of tobacco (aOR = 086, p < .001), cannabis (aOR = 0.83, p < .001), and concurrent tobacco and cannabis (aOR = 0.81, p < .001) use. Good physical health reduced the odds of tobacco (aOR = 0.52, p < .1), cannabis (aOR = 0.63, p < .05), and concurrent TCU (aOR = 0.54, p < .05). Major depressive episodes increased the likelihood of cannabis use (aOR = 1.62, p < .001).

Conclusions

Investment in cognitive, social, and emotional aspects of human capital development, and physical health among black youth is protective against TCU. Efforts to sustain human capital development among black adolescents may contribute to reducing TCU disparities.

Implications

This is one of few studies to examine human capital development factors and their associations with TCU among black youth. Efforts to eliminate tobacco/cannabis-related disparities among black youth should also invest in social, emotional, cognitive, and physical health development opportunities.
L-Ascorbic acid metabolism and regulation in fruit crops
Authors: Liao Guanglian , Xu Qiang , Allan Andrew C , Xu Xiaobiao
Published: April 2023

L-Ascorbic acid (AsA) is more commonly known as vitamin C and is an indispensable compound for human health. As a major antioxidant, AsA not only maintains redox balance and resists biological and abiotic stress but also regulates plant growth, induces flowering, and delays senescence through complex signal transduction networks. However, AsA content varies greatly in horticultural crops, especially in fruit crops. The AsA content of the highest species is approximately 1,800 times higher than that of the lowest species. There have been significant advancements in the understanding of AsA accumulation in the past 20 years. The most noteworthy accomplishment was the identification of the critical rate-limiting genes for the 2 major AsA synthesis pathways (L-galactose pathway and D-galacturonic acid pathway) in fruit crops. The rate-limiting genes of the former are GMP, GME, GGP, and GPP, and the rate-limiting gene of the latter is GalUR. Moreover, APX, MDHAR, and DHAR are also regarded as key genes in degradation and regeneration pathways. Interestingly, some of these key genes are sensitive to environmental factors, such as GGP being induced by light. The efficiency of enhancing AsA content is high by editing upstream open reading frames (uORF) of the key genes and constructing multi-gene expression vectors. In summary, the AsA metabolism has been well understood in fruit crops, but the transport mechanism of AsA and the synergistic improvement of AsA and other traits is less known, which will be the focus of AsA research in fruit crops.
Schaffer, Sherlock and Shaddai
Authors: Symonds Hezki
Published: April 2023

According to Schaffer, most of the controversial entities that ontologists debate exist. Schaffer calls this view permissivism and he defends it by appealing to easy arguments for the existence of the entities in question. Schaffer presents several easy arguments, but his easy argument for fictional characters and his easy argument for God play a crucial role in his defence of permissivism. In this paper, I argue that Schaffer doesn’t have the resources to defend his easy argument for fictional characters or his easy argument for God. So, his defence of permissivism fails.
Promoting narrative CVs to improve research evaluation? A review of opinion pieces and experiments
Authors: Bordignon Frédérique , Chaignon Lauranne , Egret Daniel
Published: April 2023

As the academic community has become increasingly concerned about the drifts of research evaluation, mostly researchers’ evaluation, because of the overreliance on metrics, many expert groups have made recommendations to improve the way researchers should be evaluated. In this study, we focus on the recommendation to use narrative curriculum vitae (CVs). We review 28 opinion pieces and 7 experiments to better understand what a narrative CV can refer to, and to explore whether the narrative function that is specific to this kind of CV is proving effective in response to the concerns raised by evaluation practices. A close reading of these documents reveals the conceptual basis of the narrative CV and the problems it is intended to solve; we propose five commonly reported features of the narrative CV: avoid lists, contextualize achievements, fight metrics, enlarge the spectrum of contributions taken into consideration and foster diversity and inclusion. But the promoters of the narrative CV pay little to investigate how the narrative feature itself can lead to any benefits. However, the feedback collected from both applicants and evaluators is quite positive. Regardless of whether it is justified or not, the enthusiasm aroused by the implementation of this new type of CV undeniably has the advantage of opening up the debate, raising awareness and calling to question the bad practices and biases that exist in the researchers’ assessment processes. The narrative nature of the CV is, in the end, just a pretext for raising interest and working towards the adoption of good practices.
Sexual dysfunctions in breast cancer patients: evidence in context
Authors: Vizza Riccardo , Capomolla Elisabetta Maria , Tosetto Livia , Corrado Giacomo , Bruno Valentina , Chiofalo Benito , Di Lisa Francesca Sofia , Filomeno Lorena , Pizzuti Laura , Krasniqi Eriseld , Sanguineti Giuseppe , Villa Alice , Giannini Andrea , Kayal Ramy , Stranges Vincenzo , Tomao Silverio , Botti Claudio , Tomao Federica , Barba Maddalena , Vizza Enrico , Ciliberto Gennaro , Vici Patrizia
Published: April 2023

Introduction

In breast cancer patients, endocrine therapy may exert a negative impact on sexual functioning in both genders, with potentially relevant consequences concerning quality of life and treatment adherence. The availability of effective interventions to maintain and/or restore sexual health in breast cancer patients is a key issue to a research agenda.

Objectives

To summarize and critically discuss the most updated and qualitatively relevant literature on the therapeutic approach to sexual impairment in breast cancer patients, with a focus on patients treated with endocrine therapy.

Methods

We searched PubMed from its inception to February 2022 for observational and intervention trials including participants with sexual dysfunctions. We were particularly interested in studies of breast cancer patients with sexual dysfunctions while undergoing endocrine therapy. We developed a search strategy with the aim of maximizing the number of articles considered for screening and potential inclusion.

Results

Forty-five studies were selected: 3 observational and 42 intervention studies. Thirty-five studies were exclusively focused on female breast cancer populations. We could not identify studies exclusively focused on or also including male breast cancer patients. Overall, in female patients, the available armamentarium encompasses vaginal lubricants, moisturizers, estrogens, dehydroepiandrosterone, CO2 laser, ospemifene, and counseling. None of these interventions has been demonstrated to completely solve sexual dysfunctions when singularly considered. More favorable outcomes have come from the combination of different therapies.

Conclusion

In female breast cancer, future research is oriented toward the gain of evidence on combined therapies and long-term data on safety issues on the most promising interventions. The lack of evidence on sexual disturbances in male breast cancer patients remains a major concern.
The need for good practice in the application of mechanistic constructs in hazard and risk assessment
Authors: Meek M E (Bette) , Wikoff Daniele
Published: April 2023

A series of recent and proposed workshops address the interface between key characteristics and mechanistic pathway descriptions (adverse outcome pathways and mode of action) to identify commonalities and potential for complementary application. Informed by different communities, these constructs have collective potential to increase confidence to support the application of mechanistic data in hazard assessment. This forum article summarizes concepts, introduces evolving understanding, and invites future collaboration to contribute to better common understanding and development of good practice in the use of mechanistic data in hazard assessment.
Along with cyclic electron flow and non-photochemical quenching, water-to-water cycle is involved uniquely in alleviating Zn stress-caused photodamage in Melia azedarach
Authors: Huang XinHao , Xu Hongyang , Yu Zhimin , Che Yanhui , Kang Hui , Zhu Fan
Published: April 2023

Zinc (Zn) is a widespread industrial pollutant that has detrimental effects on plant growth and development. Photoprotective properties ensure plant survival during stress by protecting the photosynthetic apparatus. This occurs via numerous mechanisms, including non-photochemical quenching (NPQ), cyclic electron flow (CEF) and the water-to-water cycle (WWC). However, whether and how Zn stress affects the photoprotective properties of plants to enhance the tolerance of Zn toxicity remains unknown. In this study, we treated Melia azedarach plants with different Zn concentrations ranging from 200 to 1000 mg kg−1. We then analyzed the activities of two leaf photosynthetic pigment components—photosystems I and II (PSI and PSII)—and the relative expression levels of their subunit genes. As expected, we found that Zn treatment decreases photosynthesis and increases photodamage in M. azedarach leaves. The Zn treatments exacerbated a variety of photodamage phenotypes in photosystem activities and altered the expression levels of key photosystem complex genes and proteins. Furthermore, our results demonstrated that PSI was more seriously damaged than PSII under Zn stress. Subsequently, we compared differences in photodamage in the NPQ, CEF and WWC photoprotection pathways under Zn stress and found that each exerted a protective function again photodamage under 200 mg kg−1 Zn stress. The NPQ and CEF may also play major protective roles in the avoidance of irreversible photodamage and helping to ensure survival under higher (i.e., 500 and 1000 mg kg−1) levels of Zn stress. Thus, our study revealed that NPQ- and CEF-based photoprotection mechanisms are more effective than WWC in M. azedarach upon Zn stress.
Initiative provides aid and education to Liberian nurses
Authors: Schneider Melissa , Mator Joyce Kolu
Published: April 2023

Recognizing the gaps in education and resources in other locations can shock nurses working in developed countries. This article discusses the origins of an international initiative born from one nurses' flight from upheaval.
Factors Associated With the Development of a Confirmed Fracture-Related Infection
Authors: Solasz Sara , Merrell Lauren , Ganta Abhishek , Konda Sanjit , Egol Kenneth A.
Published: April 2023

Objectives:

To identify factors associated with the development of fracture-related infection (FRI) in patients who have undergone operative fixation of their fracture.

Design:

Retrospective study.

Setting:

Academic medical center.

Patients/Participants:

Patients with peripheral extremity long-bone fractures and shoulder and pelvic girdle fractures who underwent operative repair. This included patients who had undergone fixation inside and outside of our institution.

Intervention:

Chi-square, Fisher exact testing, analysis of variance (ANOVA), and t tests were used for analysis of data, as appropriate. Binomial logistic regression analysis was performed to determine risk factors of FRI.

Main Outcome Measurements:

Demographics, fracture location, injury mechanism, open wound status, and wound complication type.

Results:

One hundred ninety-three patients comprised the FRI cohort. Of those with confirmed signs of FRI, 36 (18.7%) had wound breakdown to bone or implant, 120 (62.1%) had a sinus track, and 170 patients (88.1%) had the confirmed presence of microorganisms in deep tissue samples obtained during operative intervention. Factors associated with development of an FRI were as follows: higher BMI; being of Black and Hispanic race; higher American Society of Anesthesiologists class; history of tobacco, alcohol, and drug use; and fractures of the lower extremity (foot, tibia, and femur/pelvis). The results of binary logistic regression demonstrated that treatment at an urban level I trauma center and drug use positively predicted the development of FRI.

Conclusion:

Our results demonstrate that higher BMI; being of Black or Hispanic race; higher American Society of Anesthesiologists; history of tobacco, alcohol, and drug use; and fractures of the foot, tibia, and femur/pelvis are all factors associated with development of FRI.

Level of Evidence:

Prognostic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Use of Computed Tomography Angiography to Predict Complications in Tibia Fractures: A Multicenter Retrospective Analysis
Authors: Mihas Alexander K. , Prather John C. , Alexander Bradley K. , Boateng Isaac B. , Moran Thomas E. , Turnbull Lacie M. , Allen Andrew , Vise Healy , Kammire Maria S. , Moreno Andres F. , McGwin Gerald , Chen Andrew T. , Talerico Michael T. , Obremskey William T. , Weiss David B. , Bergin Patrick F. , Spitler Clay A. ,   For the Southeastern Fracture Consortium
Published: April 2023

Objectives:

To assess the ability of computed tomography angiography identified infrapopliteal vascular injury to predict complications in tibia fractures that do not require vascular surgical intervention.

Design:

Multicenter retrospective review.

Setting:

Six Level I trauma centers.

Patients and Intervention:

Two hundred seventy-four patients with tibia fractures (OTA/AO 42 or 43) who underwent computed tomography angiography maintained a clinically perfused foot not requiring vascular surgical intervention and were treated with an intramedullary nail. Patients were grouped by the number of vessels below the trifurcation that were injured.

Main Outcome Measurements:

Rates of superficial and deep infection, amputation, unplanned reoperation to promote bone healing (nonunion), and any unplanned reoperation.

Results:

There were 142 fractures in the control (no-injury) group, 87 in the one-vessel injury group, and 45 in the two-vessel injury group. Average follow-up was 2 years. Significantly higher rates of nerve injury and flap coverage after wound breakdown were observed in the two-vessel injury group. The two-vessel injury group had higher rates of deep infection (35.6% vs. 16.9%, P = 0.030) and unplanned reoperation to promote bone healing (44.4% vs. 23.9%, P = 0.019) compared with controls, as well as increased rates of any unplanned reoperation compared with control and one-vessel injury groups (71.1% vs. 39.4% and 51.7%, P < 0.001), respectively. There were no significant differences in rates of superficial infection or amputation.

Conclusions:

Tibia fractures with two-vessel injuries were associated with higher rates of deep infection and unplanned reoperation to promote bone healing compared with those without vascular injury, as well as increased rates of any unplanned reoperation compared with controls and fractures with one-vessel injury.

Level of Evidence:

Prognostic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.