bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Earthquake Cycle Mechanics During Caldera Collapse: Simulating the 2018 Kı̄lauea Eruption
Authors: Crozier Josh , Anderson Kyle R.
Published: May 2024

In multiple observed caldera‐forming eruptions, the rock overlying a draining magma reservoir dropped downward along ring faults in sequences of discrete collapse earthquakes. These sequences are analogous to tectonic earthquake cycles and provide opportunities to examine fault mechanics and collapse eruption dynamics over multiple events. Collapse earthquake cycles have been studied with zero‐dimensional slider‐block models, but these do not account for the complicated interplay between fluid and elastic dynamics or for factors such as the heterogeneous fault properties and non‐vertical ring fault geometries often inferred at volcanoes. We present two‐dimensional axisymmetric mafic piston‐like collapse earthquake cycle models that include rate‐and‐state friction, fully‐dynamic elasticity, and compressible viscous fluid magma flow. We demonstrate that collapse earthquake intervals and magnitudes are highly sensitive to inertial effects, evolving stress fields, fault geometry, and depth‐varying fault friction. Given the consistent earthquake cycles observed in most eruptions, this suggests that ring faults can quickly stabilize and often become nearly vertical at depth. We use the well‐monitored 2018 collapse sequence at Kı̄lauea as a case study. Our model can produce many features of Kı̄lauea seismic and geodetic observations, except for a significant amount of interseismic slip, which cannot be readily explained with simple rate‐and‐state friction parameterizations.
Hemodynamic assessment by neonatologist using echocardiography: Primary provider versus consultation model
Authors: Noori Shahab , Ramanathan Rangasamy , Lakshminrusimha Satyan , Singh Yogen
Published: May 2024

Hemodynamic instability is very common in sick neonates and the currently used traditional hemodynamic monitoring tools lack sensitivity and specificity. Hemodynamic evaluation on echocardiography can provide direct information regarding the pathophysiology causing the hemodynamic instability and help the bedside clinician in making a personalized treatment approach based upon the deranged pathophysiology. Assessment of cardiac function and hemodynamics is essential in the management of neonates with cardiorespiratory failure, and hence neonatologist-performed echocardiography is becoming an essential tool in modern neonatal care. Depending on the level and size of the NICU, there is a daily need for echocardiography, and for a subset of sick infants, serial echocardiographic assessments are warranted. Comprehensive guidelines for neonatologists performing echocardiography and targeted neonatal echocardiography have been published providing a framework for training and quality assurance. There has been a significant interest among the providers to learn echocardiography skills. This manuscript explores the various needs of neonatal care providers around echocardiography, the current challenges neonatologists face in learning echocardiography, and how they, especially neonatal fellows, can learn these important skills during their training.
Autoimmune conditions and gastric cancer risk in a population-based study in the United Kingdom
Authors: Murphy John D. , Gadalla Shahinaz M. , Anderson Lesley A. , Rabkin Charles S. , Cardwell Chris R. , Song Minkyo , Camargo M. Constanza
Published: May 2024

Background

Although overall incidence of gastric cancer is decreasing, incidence has been increasing among young people in some Western countries. This trend may stem from the increase in autoimmune conditions.

Methods

A nested case-control study of gastric cancer in UK Clinical Practice Research Datalink. Up to ten cancer-free controls were matched to cases by age and sex. Conditional logistic regression was used to calculate odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for associations between analyzable autoimmune conditions (n = 34) and gastric cancer with Bonferroni correction. We evaluated associations between pernicious anaemia and other conditions. A meta-analysis of published prospective studies and ours was conducted.

Results

Among 6586 cases (1156 cardia, 1104 non-cardia, and 4334 overlapping/unspecified tumours) and 65,687 controls, any autoimmune condition was associated with gastric cancer (OR = 1.10; 95% CI: 1.01–1.20). Individuals with pernicious anaemia had higher gastric cancer risk than those without (OR = 2.75; 2.19–3.44). Among controls, pernicious anaemia was associated with seven other conditions (OR range: 2.21–29.80). The pooled estimate for any autoimmune condition and gastric cancer was 1.17 (1.14–1.21; n = 47,126 cases).

Conclusion

Autoimmunity increases gastric cancer risk. Some autoimmune conditions may be indirectly associated with gastric cancer via pernicious anaemia. Pernicious anaemia could be considered for gastric cancer risk stratification and screening.
Past, present, and future of cell replacement therapy for parkinson’s disease: a novel emphasis on host immune responses
Authors: Park Tae-Yoon , Jeon Jeha , Cha Young , Kim Kwang-Soo
Published: May 2024

Parkinson’s disease (PD) stands as the second most common neurodegenerative disorder after Alzheimer’s disease, and its prevalence continues to rise with the aging global population. Central to the pathophysiology of PD is the specific degeneration of midbrain dopamine neurons (mDANs) in the substantia nigra. Consequently, cell replacement therapy (CRT) has emerged as a promising treatment approach, initially supported by various open-label clinical studies employing fetal ventral mesencephalic (fVM) cells. Despite the initial favorable results, fVM cell therapy has intrinsic and logistical limitations that hinder its transition to a standard treatment for PD. Recent efforts in the field of cell therapy have shifted its focus towards the utilization of human pluripotent stem cells, including human embryonic stem cells and induced pluripotent stem cells, to surmount existing challenges. However, regardless of the transplantable cell sources (e.g., xenogeneic, allogeneic, or autologous), the poor and variable survival of implanted dopamine cells remains a major obstacle. Emerging evidence highlights the pivotal role of host immune responses following transplantation in influencing the survival of implanted mDANs, underscoring an important area for further research. In this comprehensive review, building upon insights derived from previous fVM transplantation studies, we delve into the functional ramifications of host immune responses on the survival and efficacy of grafted dopamine cells. Furthermore, we explore potential strategic approaches to modulate the host immune response, ultimately aiming for optimal outcomes in future clinical applications of CRT for PD.
Expanding the phenotypic spectrum of NOTCH1 variants: clinical manifestations in families with congenital heart disease
Authors: Stanley Kaitlin J. , Kalbfleisch Kelsey J. , Moran Olivia M. , Chaturvedi Rajiv R. , Roifman Maian , Chen Xin , Manshaei Roozbeh , Martin Nicole , McDermott Simina , McNiven Vanda , Myles-Reid Diane , Nield Lynne E. , Reuter Miriam S. , Schwartz Marci L. B. , Shannon Patrick , Silver Rachel , Somerville Cherith , Teitelbaum Ronni , Zahavich Laura , Bassett Anne S. , Kim Raymond H. , Mital Seema , Chitayat David , Jobling Rebekah K.
Published: May 2024

Pathogenic variants in NOTCH1 are associated with non-syndromic congenital heart disease (CHD) and Adams–Oliver syndrome (AOS). The clinical presentation of individuals with damaging NOTCH1 variants is characterized by variable expressivity and incomplete penetrance; however, data on systematic phenotypic characterization are limited. We report the genotype and phenotype of a cohort of 33 individuals (20 females, 13 males; median age 23.4 years, range 2.5–68.3 years) from 11 families with causative NOTCH1 variants (9 inherited, 2 de novo; 9 novel), ascertained from a proband with CHD. We describe the cardiac and extracardiac anomalies identified in these 33 individuals, only four of whom met criteria for AOS. The most common CHD identified was tetralogy of Fallot, though various left- and right-sided lesions and septal defects were also present. Extracardiac anomalies identified include cutis aplasia (5/33), cutaneous vascular anomalies (7/33), vascular anomalies of the central nervous system (2/10), Poland anomaly (1/33), pulmonary hypertension (2/33), and structural brain anomalies (3/14). Identification of these findings in a cardiac proband cohort supports NOTCH1-associated CHD and NOTCH1-associated AOS lying on a phenotypic continuum. Our findings also support (1) Broad indications for NOTCH1 molecular testing (any familial CHD, simplex tetralogy of Fallot or hypoplastic left heart); (2) Cascade testing in all at-risk relatives; and (3) A thorough physical exam, in addition to cardiac, brain (structural and vascular), abdominal, and ophthalmologic imaging, in all gene-positive individuals. This information is important for guiding the medical management of these individuals, particularly given the high prevalence of NOTCH1 variants in the CHD population.
Genome-wide Cas9-mediated screening of essential non-coding regulatory elements via libraries of paired single-guide RNAs
Authors: Li Yufeng , Tan Minkang , Akkari-Henić Almira , Zhang Limin , Kip Maarten , Sun Shengnan , Sepers Jorian J. , Xu Ningning , Ariyurek Yavuz , Kloet Susan L. , Davis Richard P. , Mikkers Harald , Gruber Joshua J. , Snyder Michael P. , Li Xiao , Pang Baoxu
Published: May 2024

The functions of non-coding regulatory elements (NCREs), which constitute a major fraction of the human genome, have not been systematically studied. Here we report a method involving libraries of paired single-guide RNAs targeting both ends of an NCRE as a screening system for the Cas9-mediated deletion of thousands of NCREs genome-wide to study their functions in distinct biological contexts. By using K562 and 293T cell lines and human embryonic stem cells, we show that NCREs can have redundant functions, and that many ultra-conserved elements have silencer activity and play essential roles in cell growth and in cellular responses to drugs (notably, the ultra-conserved element PAX6_Tarzan may be critical for heart development, as removing it from human embryonic stem cells led to defects in cardiomyocyte differentiation). The high-throughput screen, which is compatible with single-cell sequencing, may allow for the identification of druggable NCREs.
Lense–Thirring precession after a supermassive black hole disrupts a star
Authors: Pasham Dheeraj R. , Zajaček Michal , Nixon C. J. , Coughlin Eric R. , Śniegowska Marzena , Janiuk Agnieszka , Czerny Bożena , Wevers Thomas , Guolo Muryel , Ajay Yukta , Loewenstein Michael
Published: May 2024

An accretion disk formed around a supermassive black hole after it disrupts a star is expected to be initially misaligned with respect to the equatorial plane of the black hole. This misalignment induces relativistic torques (the Lense–Thirring effect) on the disk, causing the disk to precess at early times, whereas at late times the disk aligns with the black hole and precession terminates1,2. Here we report, using high-cadence X-ray monitoring observations of a tidal disruption event (TDE), the discovery of strong, quasi-periodic X-ray flux and temperature modulations. These X-ray modulations are separated by roughly 15 days and persist for about 130 days during the early phase of the TDE. Lense–Thirring precession of the accretion flow can produce this X-ray variability, but other physical mechanisms, such as the radiation-pressure instability3,4, cannot be ruled out. Assuming typical TDE parameters, that is, a solar-like star with the resulting disk extending at most to the so-called circularization radius, and that the disk precesses as a rigid body, we constrain the disrupting dimensionless spin parameter of the black hole to be 0.05 ≲ ∣a∣ ≲ 0.5.
Osmosensor-mediated control of Ca2+ spiking in pollen germination
Authors: Pei Songyu , Tao Qi , Li Wenke , Qi Guoning , Wang Borong , Wang Yan , Dai Shiwen , Shen Qiujing , Wang Xi , Wu Xiaomei , Xu Shijian , Theprungsirikul Lynn , Zhang Jingyuan , Liang Liang , Liu Yuantao , Chen Kena , Shen Yang , Crawford Bridget M. , Cheng Mengjia , Zhang Qi , Wang Yiqi , Liu Hongli , Yang Benguang , Krichilsky Bryan , Pei Jessica , Song Karen , Johnson Douglas M. , Jiang Zhonghao , Wu Feihua , Swift Gary B. , Yang Huanghe , Liu Zhonghua , Zou Xuexiao , Vo-Dinh Tuan , Liu Feng , Pei Zhen-Ming , Yuan Fang
Published: May 2024

Higher plants survive terrestrial water deficiency and fluctuation by arresting cellular activities (dehydration) and resuscitating processes (rehydration). However, how plants monitor water availability during rehydration is unknown. Although increases in hypo-osmolarity-induced cytosolic Ca2+ concentration (HOSCA) have long been postulated to be the mechanism for sensing hypo-osmolarity in rehydration1,2, the molecular basis remains unknown. Because osmolarity triggers membrane tension and the osmosensing specificity of osmosensing channels can only be determined in vivo3–5, these channels have been classified as a subtype of mechanosensors. Here we identify bona fide cell surface hypo-osmosensors in Arabidopsis and find that pollen Ca2+ spiking is controlled directly by water through these hypo-osmosensors—that is, Ca2+ spiking is the second messenger for water status. We developed a functional expression screen in Escherichia coli for hypo-osmosensitive channels and identified OSCA2.1, a member of the hyperosmolarity-gated calcium-permeable channel (OSCA) family of proteins6. We screened single and high-order OSCA mutants, and observed that the osca2.1/osca2.2 double-knockout mutant was impaired in pollen germination and HOSCA. OSCA2.1 and OSCA2.2 function as hypo-osmosensitive Ca2+-permeable channels in planta and in HEK293 cells. Decreasing osmolarity of the medium enhanced pollen Ca2+ oscillations, which were mediated by OSCA2.1 and OSCA2.2 and required for germination. OSCA2.1 and OSCA2.2 convert extracellular water status into Ca2+ spiking in pollen and may serve as essential hypo-osmosensors for tracking rehydration in plants.
Mapping model units to visual neurons reveals population code for social behaviour
Authors: Cowley Benjamin R. , Calhoun Adam J. , Rangarajan Nivedita , Ireland Elise , Turner Maxwell H. , Pillow Jonathan W. , Murthy Mala
Published: May 2024

The rich variety of behaviours observed in animals arises through the interplay between sensory processing and motor control. To understand these sensorimotor transformations, it is useful to build models that predict not only neural responses to sensory input1–5 but also how each neuron causally contributes to behaviour6,7. Here we demonstrate a novel modelling approach to identify a one-to-one mapping between internal units in a deep neural network and real neurons by predicting the behavioural changes that arise from systematic perturbations of more than a dozen neuronal cell types. A key ingredient that we introduce is ‘knockout training’, which involves perturbing the network during training to match the perturbations of the real neurons during behavioural experiments. We apply this approach to model the sensorimotor transformations of Drosophila melanogaster males during a complex, visually guided social behaviour8–11. The visual projection neurons at the interface between the optic lobe and central brain form a set of discrete channels12, and prior work indicates that each channel encodes a specific visual feature to drive a particular behaviour13,14. Our model reaches a different conclusion: combinations of visual projection neurons, including those involved in non-social behaviours, drive male interactions with the female, forming a rich population code for behaviour. Overall, our framework consolidates behavioural effects elicited from various neural perturbations into a single, unified model, providing a map from stimulus to neuronal cell type to behaviour, and enabling future incorporation of wiring diagrams of the brain15 into the model.
Structural insights into the cross-exon to cross-intron spliceosome switch
Authors: Zhang Zhenwei , Kumar Vinay , Dybkov Olexandr , Will Cindy L. , Zhong Jiayun , Ludwig Sebastian E. J. , Urlaub Henning , Kastner Berthold , Stark Holger , Lührmann Reinhard
Published: May 2024

Early spliceosome assembly can occur through an intron-defined pathway, whereby U1 and U2 small nuclear ribonucleoprotein particles (snRNPs) assemble across the intron1. Alternatively, it can occur through an exon-defined pathway2–5, whereby U2 binds the branch site located upstream of the defined exon and U1 snRNP interacts with the 5′ splice site located directly downstream of it. The U4/U6.U5 tri-snRNP subsequently binds to produce a cross-intron (CI) or cross-exon (CE) pre-B complex, which is then converted to the spliceosomal B complex6,7. Exon definition promotes the splicing of upstream introns2,8,9 and plays a key part in alternative splicing regulation10–16. However, the three-dimensional structure of exon-defined spliceosomal complexes and the molecular mechanism of the conversion from a CE-organized to a CI-organized spliceosome, a pre-requisite for splicing catalysis, remain poorly understood. Here cryo-electron microscopy analyses of human CE pre-B complex and B-like complexes reveal extensive structural similarities with their CI counterparts. The results indicate that the CE and CI spliceosome assembly pathways converge already at the pre-B stage. Add-back experiments using purified CE pre-B complexes, coupled with cryo-electron microscopy, elucidate the order of the extensive remodelling events that accompany the formation of B complexes and B-like complexes. The molecular triggers and roles of B-specific proteins in these rearrangements are also identified. We show that CE pre-B complexes can productively bind in trans to a U1 snRNP-bound 5′ splice site. Together, our studies provide new mechanistic insights into the CE to CI switch during spliceosome assembly and its effect on pre-mRNA splice site pairing at this stage.
Acquisition of epithelial plasticity in human chronic liver disease
Authors: Gribben Christopher , Galanakis Vasileios , Calderwood Alexander , Williams Eleanor C. , Chazarra-Gil Ruben , Larraz Miguel , Frau Carla , Puengel Tobias , Guillot Adrien , Rouhani Foad J. , Mahbubani Krishnaa , Godfrey Edmund , Davies Susan E. , Athanasiadis Emmanouil , Saeb-Parsy Kourosh , Tacke Frank , Allison Michael , Mohorianu Irina , Vallier Ludovic
Published: May 2024

For many adult human organs, tissue regeneration during chronic disease remains a controversial subject. Regenerative processes are easily observed in animal models, and their underlying mechanisms are becoming well characterized1–4, but technical challenges and ethical aspects are limiting the validation of these results in humans. We decided to address this difficulty with respect to the liver. This organ displays the remarkable ability to regenerate after acute injury, although liver regeneration in the context of recurring injury remains to be fully demonstrated. Here we performed single-nucleus RNA sequencing (snRNA-seq) on 47 liver biopsies from patients with different stages of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease to establish a cellular map of the liver during disease progression. We then combined these single-cell-level data with advanced 3D imaging to reveal profound changes in the liver architecture. Hepatocytes lose their zonation and considerable reorganization of the biliary tree takes place. More importantly, our study uncovers transdifferentiation events that occur between hepatocytes and cholangiocytes without the presence of adult stem cells or developmental progenitor activation. Detailed analyses and functional validations using cholangiocyte organoids confirm the importance of the PI3K–AKT–mTOR pathway in this process, thereby connecting this acquisition of plasticity to insulin signalling. Together, our data indicate that chronic injury creates an environment that induces cellular plasticity in human organs, and understanding the underlying mechanisms of this process could open new therapeutic avenues in the management of chronic diseases.
Mapping medically relevant RNA isoform diversity in the aged human frontal cortex with deep long-read RNA-seq
Authors: Aguzzoli Heberle Bernardo , Brandon J. Anthony , Page Madeline L. , Nations Kayla A. , Dikobe Ketsile I. , White Brendan J. , Gordon Lacey A. , Fox Grant A. , Wadsworth Mark E. , Doyle Patricia H. , Williams Brittney A. , Fox Edward J. , Shantaraman Anantharaman , Ryten Mina , Goodwin Sara , Ghiban Elena , Wappel Robert , Mavruk-Eskipehlivan Senem , Miller Justin B. , Seyfried Nicholas T. , Nelson Peter T. , Fryer John D. , Ebbert Mark T. W.
Published: May 2024

Determining whether the RNA isoforms from medically relevant genes have distinct functions could facilitate direct targeting of RNA isoforms for disease treatment. Here, as a step toward this goal for neurological diseases, we sequenced 12 postmortem, aged human frontal cortices (6 Alzheimer disease cases and 6 controls; 50% female) using one Oxford Nanopore PromethION flow cell per sample. We identified 1,917 medically relevant genes expressing multiple isoforms in the frontal cortex where 1,018 had multiple isoforms with different protein-coding sequences. Of these 1,018 genes, 57 are implicated in brain-related diseases including major depression, schizophrenia, Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer disease. Our study also uncovered 53 new RNA isoforms in medically relevant genes, including several where the new isoform was one of the most highly expressed for that gene. We also reported on five mitochondrially encoded, spliced RNA isoforms. We found 99 differentially expressed RNA isoforms between cases with Alzheimer disease and controls.
Endosymbionts of citrus leafminer Phyllocnistis citrella Stainton among different citrus orchards in China
Authors: Liu Hao-Qiang , Li Hong-Jun , Pan Qi , Xiang Yao-Zong
Published: May 2024

Endosymbionts regulate the behavior of pest species, which could provide insights into their control. The citrus leafminer (Phyllocnistis citrella Stainton) is a widely distributed pest associated with diseases of citrus, especially of young trees. Here, we determined the endosymbiont composition of P. citrella in citrus orchards across China. The resulting dataset comprised average 50,430 high-quality reads for bacterial 16S rRNA V3-V4 regions of endosymbionts from 36 P. citrella larvae sampled from 12 citrus orchards across China. The sequencing depth and sampling size of this dataset were sufficient to reveal most of the endosymbionts of P. citrella. In total, 2,875 bacterial amplicon sequence variants were obtained; taxonomic analysis revealed a total of 372 bacterial genera, most of which were Proteobacteria phylum with Undibacterium being the most abundant genus. This dataset provides the first evidence of P. citrella endosymbionts that could support the development of pest management approaches in citrus orchards.
RUNX1-induced upregulation of PTGS2 enhances cell growth, migration and invasion in colorectal cancer cells
Authors: Zheng Weiwei , Guo Yingchang , Kahar Aihemaiti , Bai Junwei , Zhu Qinhui , Huang Xinli , Li Yuan , Xu Bingyi , Jia Xueshan , Wu Gang , Zhang Chao , Zhu Yuanzeng
Published: May 2024

Colorectal cancer (CRC) arises via the progressive accumulation of dysregulation in key genes including oncogenes and tumor-suppressor genes. Prostaglandin-endoperoxide synthase 2 (PTGS2, also called COX2) acts as an oncogenic driver in CRC. Here, we explored the upstream transcription factors (TFs) responsible for elevating PTGS2 expression in CRC cells. The results showed that PTGS2 silencing repressed cell growth, migration and invasion in HCT116 and SW480 CRC cells. The two fragments (499–981 bp) and (1053–1434 bp) were confirmed as the core TF binding profiles of the PTGS2 promoter. PTGS2 expression positively correlated with RUNX1 level in colon adenocarcinoma (COAD) samples using the TCGA-COAD dataset. Furthermore, RUNX1 acted as a positive regulator of PTGS2 expression by promoting transcriptional activation of the PTGS2 promoter via the 1086–1096 bp binding motif. In conclusion, our study demonstrates that PTGS2 upregulation induced by the TF RUNX1 promotes CRC cell growth, migration and invasion, providing an increased rationale for the use of PTGS2 inhibitors in CRC prevention and treatment.
Effect of partner presence on emotion regulation during parent–child interactions
Authors: Enav Yael , Knudtson Marguerite , Goldenberg Amit , Gross James J.
Published: May 2024

Having people around, especially if they provide social support, often leads to positive outcomes both physically and mentally. Mere social presence is especially beneficial when it comes from a loved one or romantic partner. In these studies, we aim to expand the understanding of how the presence of one’s romantic partner affects emotion regulation in parental situations. Specifically, we examined how partner presence influences the parent’s emotional intensity, emotion regulation, and interpretation of their child’s emotion regulation. We examined these questions in parents of both non-autistic children (Study 1) as well as autistic children (Study 2), which we hypothesize leads to more intense emotional interactions. The parents of autistic children were better able to regulate their emotions when their partners were present compared to when they were absent. Furthermore, in both studies, parents’ ratings of their children’s ability to regulate their emotions were higher when their parent’s partner was present compared to when the partner was absent. However, in both studies, we found no significant difference in the parents’ emotional intensity when their partners were present compared to when their partners were absent during the emotionally charged interaction with their child. Our findings help highlight the impact of partner presence on parent and child emotion regulation.
How different text display patterns affect cybersickness in augmented reality
Authors: Zhang Jianing , Che Xiaoping , Chang Enyao , Qu Chenxin , Di Xiaofei , Liu Haiming , Su Jingxin
Published: May 2024

Cybersickness remains a pivotal factor that impacts user experience in Augmented Reality (AR). Research probing into the relationship between AR reading tasks and cybersickness, particularly focusing on text display patterns and user characteristics, has been scant. Moreover, the influence of cybersickness on searching ability and the broader spectrum of user experience has not been rigorously tested. Recent investigations have aimed to pinpoint the variables that contribute to cybersickness during AR reading sessions. In one such study, 40 participants underwent a series of controlled experiments with randomized text display patterns, including variations in text speed and text movement modes. Post-experiment, participants completed a questionnaire that helped quantify their experiences and the degree of cybersickness encountered. The data highlighted that satiety, text speed, and text movement mode are significant contributors to cybersickness. When participants experienced higher levels of cybersickness, font color stood out as a particularly influential factor, whereas gender differences seemed to affect the onset of cybersickness more noticeably at lower levels. This study also drew attention to the impact of cybersickness on search ability within AR environments. It was noted that as cybersickness intensity increased, search ability was markedly compromised. In sum, the research underscores the importance of text display patterns and user characteristics, such as past AR experience, in understanding cybersickness and its detrimental effects on user experience and search ability, particularly under conditions of intense cybersickness.
Slope stability considering multi-fissure seepage under rainfall conditions
Authors: Jia Jianqing , Mao Chengxin , Tenorio Victor O.
Published: May 2024

Fissures form the channel for rainwater infiltration, which accelerate the infiltration of rainwater into slope bodies, hence its important impact on the seepage field and stability of the slope. In this paper, taking one landslide of Liang-Wan freeway as the research object, firstly, the equivalent permeability coefficient method is used to homogenize the fissured soil. Then considering the boundary conditions of rainfall infiltration and groundwater level, a fluid–structure coupling model is established based on saturated–unsaturated seepage theory, and evolution characteristics of seepage, displacement and stress of the slope are studied. Based on these, the slope stability coefficient is determined. The results show that the rising rate of pore water pressure and volume water content of topsoil increases when multi-fissure seepage is considered, and the pore water velocity is larger in the local seepage range of fissures. With the increase of buried depth, the closer to groundwater level, the influence of multi-fissure seepage gradually weakens. The theoretical calculation results of slope displacement are more consistent with the field monitoring results. With the increase of rainfall time, the stability coefficient of slope decreases gradually, and the rate and range of decrease are greater.
A new continental hydrogen play in Damara Belt (Namibia)
Authors: Roche V. , Geymond U. , Boka-Mene M. , Delcourt N. , Portier E. , Revillon S. , Moretti I.
Published: May 2024

Serpentinization is commonly presented as the main source of natural hydrogen (H2) in the continental domains. However, recent works in Australia and Brazil showed that Archean–Paleoproterozoic banded iron formations could be another natural source of H2 gas. Although the reaction that produces hydrogen is similar (Fe2+ oxidation—H2O reduction process), the iron content may be higher in banded iron formations than in mafic igneous lithologies, potentially generating H2 more efficiently. Here, we present structural evidence that reported H2 emissions from Waterberg Basin, Namibia are associated with underlying Neoproterozoic banded iron formations—the Chuos Formation. Magnetite, a known H2-generating mineral, is ubiquitous and accompanied by other suspected H2-generating minerals (biotite and siderite) in Chuos Formation. Magnetite occurs either as pervasive cm to dm continuous metamorphic laminations in foliation and fractures planes and/or diffusely disseminated in metachert and metacarbonate levels. From this, we infer that metamorphism does not negatively affect the Fe2+ content that is required to generate hydrogen. H2 seepages in Waterberg Basin suggest that an active H2-generating system may exist at depth and that the presence of potential traps and reservoirs is likely based on field observations.
Wildfire smoke reduces lake ecosystem metabolic rates unequally across a trophic gradient
Authors: Smits Adrianne P. , Scordo Facundo , Tang Minmeng , Cortés Alicia , Farruggia Mary Jade , Culpepper Joshua , Chandra Sudeep , Jin Yufang , Valbuena Sergio A. , Watanabe Shohei , Schladow Geoffrey , Sadro Steven
Published: May 2024

Wildfire smoke covers entire continents, depositing aerosols and reducing solar radiation fluxes to millions of freshwater ecosystems, yet little is known about impacts on lakes. Here, we quantified trends in the spatial extent of smoke cover in California, USA, and assessed responses of gross primary production and ecosystem respiration to smoke in 10 lakes spanning a gradient in water clarity and nutrient concentrations. From 2006 − 2022, the maximum extent of medium or high-density smoke occurring between June-October increased by 300,000 km2. In the three smokiest years (2018, 2020, 2021), lakes experienced 23 − 45 medium or high-density smoke days, characterized by 20% lower shortwave radiation fluxes and five-fold higher atmospheric fine particulate matter concentrations. Ecosystem respiration generally declined during smoke cover, especially in low-nutrient, cold lakes, whereas responses of primary production were more variable. Lake attributes and seasonal timing of wildfires will mediate the effects of smoke on lakes.
The immune response to RNA suppresses nucleic acid synthesis by limiting ribose 5-phosphate
Authors: Bhattacharjee Pushpak , Wang Die , Anderson Dovile , Buckler Joshua N , de Geus Eveline , Yan Feng , Polekhina Galina , Schittenhelm Ralf , Creek Darren J , Harris Lawrence D , Sadler Anthony J
Published: May 2024

During infection viruses hijack host cell metabolism to promote their replication. Here, analysis of metabolite alterations in macrophages exposed to poly I:C recognises that the antiviral effector Protein Kinase RNA-activated (PKR) suppresses glucose breakdown within the pentose phosphate pathway (PPP). This pathway runs parallel to central glycolysis and is critical to producing NADPH and pentose precursors for nucleotides. Changes in metabolite levels between wild-type and PKR-ablated macrophages show that PKR controls the generation of ribose 5-phosphate, in a manner distinct from its established function in gene expression but dependent on its kinase activity. PKR phosphorylates and inhibits the Ribose 5-Phosphate Isomerase A (RPIA), thereby preventing interconversion of ribulose- to ribose 5-phosphate. This activity preserves redox control but decreases production of ribose 5-phosphate for nucleotide biosynthesis. Accordingly, the PKR-mediated immune response to RNA suppresses nucleic acid production. In line, pharmacological targeting of the PPP during infection decreases the replication of the Herpes simplex virus. These results identify an immune response-mediated control of host cell metabolism and suggest targeting the RPIA as a potential innovative antiviral treatment.
Stimuli-sensitive polymer prodrug nanocarriers by reversible-deactivation radical polymerization
Authors: Guerassimoff Léa , Ferrere Marianne , Bossion Amaury , Nicolas Julien
Published: May 2024

An overview of stimuli-sensitive polymer prodrugs designed by RDRP techniques is presented, focusing on the synthesis strategies, the macromolecular architectures and especially the drug-polymer linkers, which govern drug release kinetics and therapeutic effect.
Secondary nucleation in symmetric binary SALR mixtures
Authors: Tan Jiazheng , Sweatman Martin B.
Published: May 2024

The cluster in symmetric binary SALR mixture can form via secondary nucleation.
Amplification-free detection of Escherichia coli using an acidic deoxyribozyme-based paper device
Authors: Zhang Guangxiao , Wu Yunping , Xue Wei , Wang Dong , Chang Yangyang , Liu Meng
Published: May 2024

An acidic deoxyribozyme-coupled amplification-free paper device was constructed to detect Escherichia coli with high sensitivity.
Doping and strain modulation of the electronic, optical and photocatalytic properties of the GaN/C2N heterostructure
Authors: Yin Fu , Wang Hui , Zhao Zhengqin , Luo LiJia , Tang Yongliang , Zhang Yanbo , Xue Qiang
Published: May 2024

Doping P (or As) atoms or applying strain can effectively regulate the electronic, optical and photocatalytic properties of two-dimensional (2D) GaN/C2N vdw heterostructures, demonstrating its advantages in photocatalyst and optoelectronic devices.
Magnetoelectric and MIESST effects in spin crossover materials exhibiting symmetry-breaking
Authors: Torres Ramírez Ricardo G. , Trzop Elzbieta , Collet Eric
Published: May 2024

Magnetoelectric coupling and magnetic-field-induced spin state trapping (MIESST) phenomena are discussed in the framework of a model based on the Landau theory for spin crossover materials with polar phases.
Molybdenum-catalyzed hydrogenation of carbon dioxide, bicarbonate, and inorganic carbonates to formates
Authors: Singh Tushar , Chakraborty Subrata
Published: May 2024

We report here low-valent molybdenum phosphine complexes catalyzed hydrogenation of carbon dioxide, bicarbonate, and inorganic carbonate to formates, achieving a maximum TON of 975 for the hydrogenation of CO2 in a THF/H2O mixture after 24 h.
Self-assembly of a unique triangle-like tungstovanadate containing pentagonal {(WO7)W3(SnR)2} cluster
Authors: Zhu Hao-Tian , Sun Yang , Su Fang , Zhang Ya-Jun , Sang Xiao-Jing , Ren Jing , Zhang Lan-Cui
Published: May 2024

A novel triangle-like tungstovanadate estertin derivative (SnR)8-V3W35 with the largest number of organotin groups and a pentagonal {(WO7)W3(SnR)2} cluster was assembled.
Liquid mining of lithium from brines using a hybrid forward osmosis – freeze concentration process driven by green deep eutectic solvents
Authors: Amani Afshin , Kolliopoulos Georgios
Published: May 2024

Forward osmosis (FO) using deep eutectic solvents (DESs) as the draw solution (DS) was used in liquid mining of lithium from a synthesized brine, which was used as the feed solution (FS).
A review on sustainable iron oxide nanoparticles: syntheses and applications in organic catalysis and environmental remediation
Authors: Chaudhari Dinesh S. , Upadhyay Rohit P. , Shinde Gajanan Y. , Gawande Manoj B. , Filip Jan , Varma Rajender S. , Zbořil Radek
Published: May 2024

In this review paper, recent developments of iron oxide nanoparticles are highlighted and discussed in the field of organic catalysis and environmental remediation.
The p-diethanolaminomethylcalix[4]arene-incorporated polyacrylonitrile-based facilitated-transport-nanofiber mat for O2/N2 separation
Authors: Ajmal Mehwish , Memon Saeed Ahmed , Shaikh Huma , Memon Shahabuddin , Shah Shahnila
Published: May 2024

Separation of O2/N2 using facilitated transport-nanofiber mat.
Mechanistic study of NHC-catalyzed oxidative N vs. O chemoselective acylation of aldehydes with alkanolamines
Authors: Sang Yuan , Joseph Ojo , Yuan Hai-Yan , Zhang Jing-Ping
Published: May 2024

We studied the mechanism of NHC-catalyzed oxidative amidation of aryl aldehydes and amines, the sources of chemoselectivity, and the role of additives through DFT calculations.
Yttria-stabilized zirconia (8YSZ) synthesis in a supercritical CO2-assisted process: a parametric study for achieving cubic phase stability
Authors: Avédikian Loan , Vulliet Julien , David Thomas , Hertz Audrey
Published: May 2024

Supercritical CO2 solvent enables the synthesis of crystallized oxide particles with high specific surfaces. A route was developed to generate nano-structured YSZ powders which may be suitable  for porous SOC electrodes or dense electrolytes.
Design and performance evaluation of all-inorganic AgTaS3 perovskite solar cells
Authors: Ahmed Tanvir , Islam Md. Choyon , Pappu Md. Alamin Hossain , Ebon Md. Islahur Rahman , Shiddique Sheikh Noman , Hossain Mainul , Hossain Jaker
Published: May 2024

Narrow bandgap AgTaS3 perovskite can offer highly efficient thin film solar cells (SCs) and become Si counterparts that are leading in the market.
Differential 3D genome architecture and imprinted gene expression: cause or consequence?
Authors: Moindrot Benoit , Imaizumi Yui , Feil Robert
Published: May 2024

Imprinted genes provide an attractive paradigm to unravel links between transcription and genome architecture. The parental allele-specific expression of these essential genes — which are clustered in chromosomal domains — is mediated by parental methylation imprints at key regulatory DNA sequences. Recent chromatin conformation capture (3C)-based studies show differential organization of topologically associating domains between the parental chromosomes at imprinted domains, in embryonic stem and differentiated cells. At several imprinted domains, differentially methylated regions show allelic binding of the insulator protein CTCF, and linked focal retention of cohesin, at the non-methylated allele only. This generates differential patterns of chromatin looping between the parental chromosomes, already in the early embryo, and thereby facilitates the allelic gene expression. Recent research evokes also the opposite scenario, in which allelic transcription contributes to the differential genome organization, similarly as reported for imprinted X chromosome inactivation. This may occur through epigenetic effects on CTCF binding, through structural effects of RNA Polymerase II, or through imprinted long non-coding RNAs that have chromatin repressive functions. The emerging picture is that epigenetically-controlled differential genome architecture precedes and facilitates imprinted gene expression during development, and that at some domains, conversely, the mono-allelic gene expression also influences genome architecture.
LanguageScreen: The Development, Validation, and Standardization of an Automated Language Assessment App
Authors: Hulme Charles , McGrane Joshua , Duta Mihaela , West Gillian , Cripps Denise , Dasgupta Abhishek , Hearne Sarah , Gardner Rachel , Snowling Margaret
Published: May 2024

Purpose:

Oral language skills provide a critical foundation for formal education and especially for the development of children's literacy (reading and spelling) skills. It is therefore important for teachers to be able to assess children's language skills, especially if they are concerned about their learning. We report the development and standardization of a mobile app—LanguageScreen—that can be used by education professionals to assess children's language ability.

Method:

The standardization sample included data from approximately 350,000 children aged 3;06 (years;months) to 8;11 who were screened for receptive and expressive language skills using LanguageScreen. Rasch scaling was used to select items of appropriate difficulty on a single unidimensional scale.

Results:

LanguageScreen has excellent psychometric properties, including high reliability, good fit to the Rasch model, and minimal differential item functioning across key student groups. Girls outperformed boys, and children with English as an additional language scored less well compared to monolingual English speakers.

Conclusions:

LanguageScreen provides an easy-to-use, reliable, child-friendly means of identifying children with language difficulties. Its use in schools may serve to raise teachers' awareness of variations in language skills and their importance for educational practice.
Utility of Serum Anti-Müllerian Hormone Measurement as Part of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Diagnosis
Authors: Piltonen Terhi T. , Viita-aho Johanna , Saarela Ulla , Melin Johanna , Forslund Maria
Published: May 2024

The 2023 international evidence-based guideline update for the assessment and management of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) recommends using the Rotterdam criteria for the diagnosis of PCOS. The updated guideline has evidence-based recommendation for the diagnosis, and it now also includes serum anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) measurement as an alternative tool for gynecological ultrasound to diagnose polycystic ovary morphology (PCOM). The aim of this new recommendation was to facilitate PCOS diagnostic workup in primary care and other disciplines, as currently most diagnosing is done in gynecology and infertility clinics. Here, we review factors affecting AMH levels as well as the utility of AMH in PCOS diagnosis. We identified relevant studies that report different cut-offs for AMH to diagnose PCOM as part of PCOS diagnosis. There are, however, some limitations when using AMH that should be acknowledged. These include physiological aspects like age, ethnicity, and obesity and iatrogenic causes like hormonal medication and ovarian surgery. Also reference ranges are different depending on AMH assay used. As a summary, we conclude that AMH is a usable tool in PCOM diagnostics, but it does not have a single cut-off. Therefore, further studies are needed to establish age and assay-based reference ranges.
Potentially Life-Threatening Interaction between Opioids and Intrathecal Baclofen in Individuals with a Childhood-Onset Neurological Disorder: A Case Series and Review of the Literature
Authors: van Dijk Liza M.M. , van Zwol Annelies , Buizer Annemieke I. , van de Pol Laura A. , Slot K. Mariam , de Wildt Saskia N. , Bonouvrié Laura A.
Published: May 2024

Background Spasticity and dystonia are movement impairments that can occur in childhood-onset neurological disorders. Severely affected individuals can be treated with intrathecal baclofen (ITB). Concomitant use of ITB and opioids has been associated with central nervous system (CNS) depression. This study aims to describe the clinical management of this interaction, based on a case series and review of literature.

Methods Four individuals with childhood-onset CNS disorders (age 8–24) and CNS-depressant overdose symptoms after the concomitant use of ITB and opioids are described. The Drug Interaction Probability Scale (DIPS) was calculated to assess the cause-relationship (doubtful <2, possible 2–4, probable 5–8, and highly probable >8) of the potential drug–drug interaction. A literature review of similar previously reported cases and the possible pharmacological mechanisms of opioid–baclofen interaction is provided.

Results After ITB and opioid co-administration, three out of four patients had decreased consciousness, and three developed respiratory depression. DIPS scores indicated a possible cause-relationship in one patient (DIPS: 4) and a probable cause-relationship in the others (DIPS: 6, 6, and 8). Discontinuation or adjusting ITB or opioid dosages resulted in clinical recovery. All patients recovered completely. In the literature, two articles describing nine unique cases were found.

Conclusion Although the opioid–ITB interaction is incompletely understood, concomitant use may enhance the risk of symptoms of CNS-depressant overdose, which are potentially life-threatening. If concomitant use is desirable, we strongly recommend to closely monitor these patients to detect interaction symptoms early. Awareness and monitoring of the potential opioid–ITB interaction is essential to reduce the risk of severe complications.
The impact of environmental decentralization on the export domestic value-added rate of enterprises in China
Authors: Hu Yuanhong , Liu Pengling , Xia Jinxing
Published: May 2024

This paper examines the impact of environmental decentralization on the export domestic value-added rate of enterprises using combined data from 2000–2014 from China Industrial Enterprise Database, China Customs Database, WIOD, China Environment Yearbook and China Enterprise Patent Database. The research findings show that the overall environmental decentralization has an inverted U-shaped impact on enterprises’ export DVAR, with 94.4% of the sample in the promotion interval. 73.2% of ordinary trade enterprises and 85.7% of processing trade enterprises are in the suppressive interval of the U-shaped impact of administrative decentralization; 69.2% of ordinary trade enterprises are in the suppressive interval of the U-shaped impact of monitoring decentralization, and 85.7% of processing trade enterprises are in the promotion range of the inverted U-shaped impact; 66.0% of ordinary trade enterprises and 86.7% of processing trade enterprises are in the suppression range of the U-shaped impact of monitoring decentralization. In addition, cost markup and R&D innovation as mediating variables are important transmission channels for environmental decentralization to influence enterprises’ export DVAR.