bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optical aspects of Born-Infeld BTZ black holes in massive gravity
Authors: Sultan Muhammad Danish , Chaudhary Shahid , Malik Adnan , Alam M M
Published: October 2024

We explore the dynamics of thin accretion disks, the radius of black hole shadows, observed intensities, and the visual characteristics of Born-Infeld BTZ black holes in massive gravity. We find out the relations for angular velocity, specific energy, and angular momentum of particles around the black hole. We observe that intense Born-Infeld electromagnetic effects lead to a reduction in the rotational motion of particles within the accretion disk, and the massive gravity slows down the orbital motion of these particles. We reveal that the influence of massive gravity parameter correlates with a reduction in the black hole’s shadow size, which suggests that massive gravity effects intensify the gravitational fields, thereby reducing the angular diameter of the shadows. On the other hand, a higher Born-Infeld parameter enlarges the black hole’s shadow, which manifests a visual relationship between the black hole’s physical dimensions and its gravitational influence. Moreover, we also uncover the optical characteristics of Born-Infeld BTZ black holes, which show that the Born-Infeld parameter greatly influences the electromagnetic field around the black hole, which affects energy distribution in the space. Finally, we observe that massive gravity significantly influences the spacetime structure near black holes, which is crucial for grasping gravitational lensing and the dynamics of accretion disks under such extreme conditions.
Unveiling Doppler effects and charge phenomena in the elastic scattering of keV electrons on polystyrene
Authors: Dapor Maurizio
Published: October 2024

Recoil energy is a phenomenon that is observed in various spectroscopy experiments. Elastic Peak Electron Spectroscopy (also known as Electron Compton Scattering) studies the shape of the elastic peak resulting from electron scattering from solid targets. As the atoms move around their equilibrium position, they scatter the distribution of recoil energies, resulting in a broadening of the elastic peak known as Doppler broadening. Since the hydrogen peak has the largest recoil energy shifts due to the low mass of hydrogen, Elastic Peak Electron Spectroscopy is ideal for the detection of hydrogen. The most important aspects of this method for the detection of hydrogen include electron-induced hydrogen desorption and, in dielectric materials, charge phenomena. This work focuses on the elastic peak spectra of keV electrons impinging on polystyrene, with particular interest in the changes in line shape due to the Doppler effect and surface charge during electron irradiation.
Scalar Quasi-Normal Modes of a loop quantum black hole
Authors: Livine Etera R. , Montagnon Clara , Oshita Naritaka , Roussille Hugo
Published: October 2024

We compute the Quasi-Normal Mode (QNM) frequencies for scalar perturbations for modified Schwarzschild black holes in Loop Quantum Gravity. We study the singularity-free polymerized metric characterized by two parameters encoding loop quantum effects: the minimal area gapa0and the polymeric deformation parameterP. We perform numerical computations using Leaver's continued fraction method and compare our results to other semi-analytical methods and existing literature. We study the effects on the QNM spectrum of variation of both deformation parameters and systematically compare to the standard Schwarzschild case. In particular we find that the scalar fundamental mode is modified from the third decimal for values ofPin accordance with the most recent astrophysical constraints. We also show that qualitative differences arise for highly damped modes: on the one hand, a new crossing of the imaginary axis occurs for high values ofa0and, on the other hand, increasingPproduces a positive shift of the real part and an increase of the spacing in imaginary part between modes.
Evaluation of SPARC divertor conditions in H-mode operation using SOLPS-ITER
Authors: Lore Jeremy D. , Park Jae-Sun , Eich Thomas , Kuang Adam Q. , Reinke Matthew L. , De Pascuale Sebastian , Lomanowski Bart , Creely Alex , Canik John M.
Published: October 2024

The predicted divertor conditions for the SPARC tokamak are calculated using SOLPS-ITER for a range of scrape-off-layer (SOL) heat flux widths λ

q
, input powers, and particle fueling locations. Under H-mode scenario conditions with an upstream separatrix density of 1

×

10

20

m−3, the most conservative range of λ

q
extrapolations (

≈

0.15 mm) results in extremely high unmitigated particle and energy fluxes to the divertor, both under full field (12.2 T) and power (

P

SOL

= 29 MW) conditions, and 2/3 field with

P

SOL

= 10 MW. Increasing the cross-field SOL diffusivities by 2–10× reduces the magnitude of the mitigation challenge, however strategies such as impurity seeding or strike-point-sweeping will likely still be required.
A combination of steady-state and time-dependent SOLPS-ITER simulations are used to map out phase space diagrams of upstream and divertor conditions. The simulations include parallel currents but neglect cross-field drifts. At low upstream density the inner and outer divertor conditions are highly asymmetric, with a large temperature difference and significant heat fluxes driven by parallel currents. The solution has sharp bifurcations with a region of hysteresis, depending on whether the initial state is at a low or high density. This behavior is observed even when the fueling location, cross-field diffusivity, and impurity level is changed, although the density window with asymmetry is reduced with increasing diffusivity. The addition of neon impurity seeding reduces the divertor heat fluxes, but also causes a drop in the upstream electron density with fixed particle throughput. This drop can be counteracted by increased main ion throughput, however too much neon results in a back transition into the asymmetric divertor regimes suggesting a need for control of both main ion and impurity seeding levels to achieve a desired divertor state.
High precision phase difference calculation based on adaptive mixed-radix All-phase FFT for Tokamak plasma electron density measurement
Authors: Shu Shuangbao , Lai Jin , Wang Yong , Liu Shanlin
Published: October 2024

In many Tokamak devices, laser interferometers, such as HCN,
DCN, CO2, etc, are employed to measure the plasma electron density
by calculating the phase difference between the reference signal and
the detector signal. This paper proposes an adaptive All-phase fast
Fourier transform (Ap-FFT) method in the electronic density of the
plasma. And analyze the reasons why the multi-frequency measurement
phase is inaccurate. The proposed method can reduce the accuracy of
phase calculation by adjusting the conversion length and mixed-radix
to reduce the spectrum leakage and grid effect. At the same time,
the experimental data verifies the correctness of the calculation
results of this method, and it shows that the measurement
uncertainty of the method is 10% higher than the 1024-point Ap-FFT,
and 15% higher than the 1024-point FFT. This method can be
effectively applied to the measurement of the electronic density of
an ionic plasma for plasma and provides a valuable reference for
other phase detection systems and equipment.
Salinity stress and atmospheric dryness co-limit evapotranspiration in a subtropical monsoonal estuarine mangrove wetland
Authors: Wang Xiangxue , Zhu Xudong
Published: October 2024

Physiological drought stresses induced by high salinity and atmospheric dryness exert negative effects on mangrove growth by constraining surface conductance (Gs) and evapotranspiration (ET). However, accurate assessments of mangrove vulnerability under changing climate are hindered by limited understanding of the relative importance of these drought stresses. To close this knowledge gap, we utilized the eddy covariance approach to acquire a 7 year (2017–2023) time series of ET and auxiliary measurements over a subtropical monsoonal estuarine mangrove in southeast China, aiming to examine the temporal patterns of mangrove ET across time scales and its environmental controls, in particular for drought stresses. The results indicated that (a) over the study period, mangrove ET showed strong temporal variations at diurnal and seasonal scales, which were strongly correlated with photosynthetically active radiation, air temperature, and vapor pressure deficit (VPD); (b) the seasonality of mangrove ET followed the changes in monthly air temperature and rainfall, reflecting the temporal pattern of typical monsoonal climate; (c) both increasing salinity and VPD were found to significantly constrain mangrove Gs when salinity and VPD were decoupled; (d) the variability of rainfall exerted a similar constraining effect on mangrove Gs, with annual maximum sustained rainfall accounting for 65% of the inter-annual variability of ET. These findings suggest that salinity stress (or less rainfall) and atmospheric dryness co-limit the temporal variability of ET in subtropical monsoonal mangroves. Future climate change with warmer air temperatures (negative effect) and more extreme rainfall (positive effect) could counteract each other in affecting mangrove ET.
Mato Grosso’s rainy season: past, present, and future trends justify immediate action
Authors: Commar Luiz Felipe Sant’Anna , Louzada Lucas , Costa Marcos Heil , Brumatti Livia Maria , Abrahão Gabriel Medeiros
Published: October 2024

Mato Grosso (MT) state, the agricultural giant of Brazil, owes its success to the long rainy season that has allowed for the extensive adoption of double cropping, elevating the region to one of the world’s leading grain producers. However, recent studies warn of the adverse impacts of deforestation and climate variability, which are causing a decrease in rainfall and a delay in the rainy season onset. These changes pose significant threats to both ecosystems and intensive agriculture. To assess these threats, we compared past and present rainfall and rainy season duration in MT and conducted robust climate projections using climate simulations forced by realistic deforestation scenarios. Our analysis of observed rainfall data from the past four decades and Community Earth System Model simulations affirmed a worrying trend of decreasing rainfall volumes, delayed rainy season onset, and shorter rainy season length. Climate projections indicate that this pattern will intensify, with onsets expected in late October and rainy season durations shorter than 200 d by mid-century. These findings underscore the potential impact on MT’s double-cropping system, a cornerstone of the region’s agricultural success, and emphasize the urgent need for sustainable large-scale agricultural practices and strategic interventions by regional decision-makers to mitigate agricultural losses and ecosystem degradation.
On set of p-adic Gibbs measures for the countable state 1D SOS model
Authors: Khakimov Otabek , Mukhamedov Farrukh
Published: October 2024

Previous studies mainly focused on the p-adic Potts model with countable spin values, demonstrating that this model has only one p-adic Gibbs measure. Furthermore, it was shown that the model exhibits a phase transition in the set of generalized Gibbs measures. A challenge remained to find a countable spin p-adic model where the set of all p-adic Gibbs measures would include at least two elements. In this paper, we have examined the one-dimensional p-adic SOS model and demonstrated that the set of all p-adic Gibbs measures has continuum cardinality. This phenomenon has not been observed in countable state p-adic Potts models. Our result addresses the aforementioned problem affirmatively. To establish this finding, we employed a p-adic dynamical system related to the p-adic Gibbs measure through the renormalization group technique. Our analysis confirms the occurrence of a phase transition for the model in question.
Fluorescence scattering under the Stokes–Mueller formalism determines the orientational distribution of fluorophores and the nature of optically active biological proteins
Authors: Zaffar Mohammad
Published: October 2024

In the current paper, we represent intrinsic fluorescence anisotropies as four-dimensional normalized Stokes vectors defined by the maximum excitation and emission in the fluorescence process with respect to linear, linear-45 and circular polarizations of light. Depending upon the transition moments for absorption/excitation and emission of fluorophores, eight types of these Stokes vectors can be realized from the Mueller fluorescence matrix of the system. These Stokes vectors probe the orientational distribution of fluorophores and predict the nature of optically active biological proteins, whether laevorotatory or dextrorotatory. The orthogonality relation between the Stokes vectors corresponding to the excitation and emission processes of fluorescence connects the molecular ground and excited states of biological and non-biological systems.
Rosemary Fowler honoured after 75-year wait
Authors: Banks Michael
Published: October 2024

The physicist Rosemary Fowler has had to wait three-quarters of a century to be honoured for her role in discovering a subatomic particle.
CERN at 70
Authors: Durrani Matin
Published: October 2024

Maintaining CERN’s spirit of openness is vital if the lab is to continue to thrive.
Alternate worlds
Authors: Crease Robert P , Carter Jennifer
Published: October 2024

Two new science-fiction TV series – Constellation and Dark Matter – reveal the problem of using the many-worlds interpretation of quantum mechanics as a fictional device, say Robert P Crease and Jennifer Carter.
New materials driving the quantum revolution
Authors: Skipper Katherine
Published: October 2024

New materials are often the driving force behind technological breakthroughs. Hannah Stern tells Katherine Skipper why she’s developing new platforms for encoding, transmitting and manipulating quantum information.
Ask me anything: Andrew Weld
Authors: Skipper Katherine
Published: October 2024

Andrew Weld is head of research and development at QLM Technologies, which develops optical sensors that can measure the wavelength-dependent absorption of a laser beam to map carbon dioxide and methane in the environment. Weld holds a PhD in optoelectronics from the University of Southampton in the UK.
A contemporary systematic review of cyberinfrastructure systems and applications for flood and drought data analytics and communication
Authors: Yeşilköy Serhan , Baydaroğlu Özlem , Singh Nikhil , Sermet Yusuf , Demir Ibrahim
Published: October 2024

Hydrometeorological disasters, including floods and droughts, have intensified in both frequency and severity in recent years. This trend underscores the critical role of timely monitoring, accurate forecasting, and effective warning systems in facilitating proactive responses. Today’s information systems offer a vast and intricate mesh of data, encompassing satellite imagery, meteorological metrics, and predictive modeling. Easily accessible to the general public, these cyberinfrastructures simulate potential disaster scenarios, serving as invaluable aids to decision-making processes. This review collates key literature on water-related disaster information systems, underscoring the transformative impact of emerging information and Internet technologies. These advancements promise enhanced flood and drought warning timeliness and greater preparedness through improved management, analysis, visualization, and data sharing. Moreover, these systems aid in hydrometeorological predictions, foster the development of web-based educational platforms, and support decision-making frameworks, digital twins, and metaverse applications in disaster contexts. They further bolster scientific research and development, enrich climate change vulnerability frameworks, and strengthen associated cyberinfrastructures. This article delves into prospective developments in the realm of natural disasters, pinpointing primary challenges and gaps in current water-related disaster information systems, and highlighting the potential intersections with future artificial intelligence solutions.
Soil erosion assessment using SWAT, in relation withLand use, agricultural practices, and future climate change in a semi-arid catchment in Tunisia
Authors: Benrhouma Aida , Hermassi Taoufik , Jarray Fathia , Bouajila Khedija , Mechri Mouna , Aouissi Jalel , Kotti Mohamed Lasaad , Attia Rafla , Hashem Abeer , Avila-Quezada Graciela Dolores , Abd _Allah Elsayed Fathi , Harrouchi Fawzi
Published: October 2024

Soil erosion is a severe environmental concern arising from intensive agricultural uses, land degradation, and anthropogenic activities. This problem threatens agricultural productivity and sustainable development, particularly in emerging countries. Therefore, evaluating soil erosion is essential in conservation, planning, and management on a watershed or basin scale. This study aims to assess the erosion of soil loss in the El Gouazine Watershed, central Tunisia, using the Soil and water assessment tool (SWAT). We define the impact of soil and water conservation management implementation combined with climate change scenario. We identified the spatial distribution of erosion rates based on soil properties, topography, and land use. The observed specific erosion rate of the watershed is estimated at 1.6 t.ha−1.yr−1, whereas according to the SWAT model, the average soil loss rate is 1.4 t.ha−1.yr−1. Furthermore, the obtained results highlight importance of the slope factor in affecting the severity of the soil loss rates in the El Gouazine watershed. It was also demonstrated that it’s urgent to prioritize other measures such as contour cropping or conservation agriculture, to enhance and strengthen the soils’ resistance against the detachment due to discharge water. In this context, this research found that these techniques decrease considerably the soil loss by 22% for the strip cropping, 33% for the No-tillage, and 72% for the bench terracing. Moreover, these farming techniques, contribute at the same time to the amelioration of the water balance by reducing the evapotranspiration and enhancing the soil water storage. To go further in this study a soil erosion forecast using the worst-case scenario for climate change RCP 8.5 was conducted. an overview of the future soil erosion patterns is obtained. We noticed then a decrease of the average annual soil loss rate until 2050 and then a prominent increase from 2051 to 2100.
Assessing coastal community resilience to climate change in Central Vietnam through the Climate Disaster Resilience Index (CDRI)
Authors: Giang Nguyen Thi Huong , Minh Tran Xuan , Ha Hoang Dung , Chung Nguyen Thi Kim
Published: October 2024

This study investigates the climate resilience of coastal communities in Vietnam’s Nghe An province, a region highly exposed due to its extensive coastline and dense population. Employing the Climate Disaster Resilience Index (CDRI), the research assesses the resilience of three districts — Quynh Luu, Dien Chau, and Nghi Loc — to climate-induced disasters. The analysis reveals good to high overall resilience across five dimensions (physical, social, economic, institutional, and natural). Dien Chau boasts the highest score (4.06), followed by Quynh Luu (4.04), and Nghi Loc (4.01). While strong infrastructure and essential services contribute to high physical resilience, social capital development requires further attention. Economic resilience is bolstered by employment rates, but income and asset accumulation need improvement. Effective policies and disaster risk management strategies highlight strong institutional resilience. Natural resource management demonstrates adaptability, but land-use planning warrants enhancement. This study underscores the districts’ good preparedness for climate challenges while pinpointing areas for improvement across all CDRI dimensions. By addressing these vulnerabilities, Nghe An’s coastal communities can further strengthen their resilience.
A review of label-free photonics-based techniques for cancer detection in the digestive and urinary systems
Authors: Castro-Olvera G , Baria E , Stoliarov D , Morselli S , Orlandini B , Vanoni M , Sayinc H , Koviarov A , Galiakhmetova D , Dickie J , Cicchi R , Serni S , Gacci M , Ribal M J , Pavone F S , Loza-Alvarez P , Rafailov E , Gumenyuk R
Published: October 2024

For a long time, it has been known that optics can provide a broad range of tools for addressing clinical needs, particularly diagnostics. Optical techniques can help in identifying diseases and detecting pathological tissues with non/minimally invasive and label-free methods. Given the current limitations of standard clinical procedures, such an approach could provide a powerful tool in detecting gastrointestinal and bladder cancers. However, each technique has serious limitations regarding one or more of the following features: biomarker sensitivity, penetration depth, acquisition times, or adaptation to the clinical environment. Hence there is an increasing need for approaches and instruments based on the concept of multimodality; in this regard, we review the application of different imaging/spectroscopy tools and methods operating in the first two optical windows (SHG, SPEF, TPEF, THG, 3PEF, CARS, Raman and reflectance) for tumour detection in the digestive and urinary systems. This article also explores the possibility of exploiting the third bio-tissue transmission window (1600–1900 nm) by reviewing state of the art in ultrafast laser sources development. Finally, we summarize the most recent results in developing multiphoton endoscopes—a key element for clinical in vivo translation of photonics-based diagnostics.
Data-driven investigation of thickness variations in multilayer thin film coatings
Authors: Liu Qing , Baghdasaryan Tigran , Ottevaere Heidi
Published: October 2024

Design and fabrication of multilayer thin film coatings for photonics applications require careful consideration of various parameters such as layer thickness, refractive indices and number of stacks. A growing trend uses machine learning for efficient navigation in the complex parameter space of photonics applications to efficiently extract valuable insights from the extensive datasets and to predict the optical performance. We developed an approach that combines Monte-Carlo and Finite-Difference Time-Domain simulations to model multilayer thin films. After conducting 95 200 runs, the data were analyzed using Neural Network fitting to explore how thickness variations influence the optical performance. An experiment validation on magnetron sputtered coated samples demonstrates the high accuracy of our method in predicting the optical performance of the thin film stacks (R
2 > 0.99), contributing to the understanding and enhancement of photonics stack properties for diverse optical applications using machine learning approaches.
The production of climate security futures in the West African Sahel
Authors: Charbonneau Bruno
Published: October 2024

Much has been written and said about the consequences of climate change on security in the West African Sahel. Sceptics argue that claims about the links between global warming and conflict dynamics rest on limited evidence and questionable assumptions. Others work on the institutionalization and operationalization of climate security. This implementation seems inevitable, if slow, difficult, and at times vague, as there is simply no consensus on what climate security implies in practice and what it is meant to achieve. What is climate security, and whose climate security are we talking about? This article analyses climate security as a structure of knowledge and a set of epistemic relationships that inform practices and relationships. It draws on participant observations of a Dakar-based research group that travelled to Bamako, Ouagadougou, and Niamey. At the intersection of research, policy, and programme implementation, this case study provides a unique look into the emergence of climate security relations and practices. The findings point to the rising structural force of climate security and how it can overcome both research uncertainties and sensitive diplomatic relations. The article shows that there is more to climate security than the focus on the conflict-climate nexus lets on.
Pilomatrix-like breast carcinoma: A mammary analog of pilomatrix-like high-grade endometrioid carcinoma (PiMHEC)
Authors: Xu Jin , Accola Molly A , Rehrauer William M , Weisman Paul S
Published: October 2024

Objectives

To describe what is, to our knowledge, the first recognized case of a triple-negative breast carcinoma (TNBC) with a PiMHEC-like phenotype. Pilomatrix-like high-grade endometrioid carcinoma (PiMHEC) is a high-grade carcinoma with divergent differentiation resembling cutaneous pilomatrix carcinoma that was recently described in the endometrium and ovary. For reference, pertinent features of PiMHEC include (1) high-grade basaloid to squamoid morphology with the presence of ghost cells; (2) only focal p63 and/or p40 expression despite a squamoid appearance; (3) CTNNB1 mutation, accompanied by diffusely aberrant β-catenin expression and LEF1 and/or CDX2 expression; and (4) loss of site-specific markers (ie, PAX8, ER).

Methods

Here we report the histologic, immunophenotypic and molecular genetic features of a case of a triple-negative breast carcinoma (TNBC) with a PiMHEC-like phenotype. 

Results

The tumor developed immediately adjacent to a HER2+, androgen receptor (AR)+, GATA3+ conventional grade 3 invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC) with only membranous β-catenin expression. The PiMHEC-like component had all of the above-noted morphologic and immunophenotypic features of endometrial PiMHEC but with loss of GATA3 and AR rather than PAX8 and ER. Molecular analysis performed on both tumor components demonstrated a shared TP53 point mutation and an exon 3 CTNNB1 mutation restricted to the PiMHEC-like component, implying a clonal relationship with secondary acquisition of CTNNB1. Following neoadjuvant chemotherapy, the HER2+ conventional component had completely resolved, but the PiMHEC-like component had very little response.

Conclusions

This case demonstrates that a PiMHEC-like phenotype may be seen as a form of TNBC that can develop from conventional IDC, with loss of site-specific biomarkers, acquisition of CTNNB1 mutation, and resistance to conventional chemotherapy.
PathMethy: an interpretable AI framework for cancer origin tracing based on DNA methylation
Authors: Xie Jiajing , Song Yuhang , Zheng Hailong , Luo Shijie , Chen Ying , Zhang Chen , Yu Rongshan , Tong Mengsha
Published: October 2024

Despite advanced diagnostics, 3%–5% of cases remain classified as cancer of unknown primary (CUP). DNA methylation, an important epigenetic feature, is essential for determining the origin of metastatic tumors. We presented PathMethy, a novel Transformer model integrated with functional categories and crosstalk of pathways, to accurately trace the origin of tumors in CUP samples based on DNA methylation. PathMethy outperformed seven competing methods in F1-score across nine cancer datasets and predicted accurately the molecular subtypes within nine primary tumor types. It not only excelled at tracing the origins of both primary and metastatic tumors but also demonstrated a high degree of agreement with previously diagnosed sites in cases of CUP. PathMethy provided biological insights by highlighting key pathways, functional categories, and their interactions. Using functional categories of pathways, we gained a global understanding of biological processes. For broader access, a user-friendly web server for researchers and clinicians is available at https://cup.pathmethy.com.
Small extracellular vesicles derived from the crosstalk between early embryos and the endometrium potentially mediate corpus luteum function
Authors: Bridi Alessandra , Sangalli Juliano Rodrigues , Nociti Ricardo Perecin , dos Santos Angélica Camargo , Alves Luana , Bastos Natália Marins , Ferronato Giuliana de Ávila , Rosa Paola Maria da Silva , Fiorenza Mariani Farias , Pugliesi Guilherme , Meirelles Flávio Vieira , Chiaratti Marcos Roberto , da Silveira Juliano Coelho , Perecin Felipe
Published: October 2024

The first interactions among the embryo, endometrium, and corpus luteum are essential for pregnancy success. Small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) are part of these interactions. We previously demonstrated that small extracellular vesicles from in vivo- or in vitro-produced bovine embryos contain different miRNA cargos. Herein we show: (1) the presence and origin (in vivo or in vitro) of the blastocyst differentially reprograms endometrial transcriptional profiles; (2) the endometrial explant (EE) cultured with in vivo or in vitro embryos release small extracellular vesicles with different miRNA contents, and (3) the luteal explant (CLE) exposed to these small extracellular vesicles have distinct mRNA and miRNA profiles. To elucidate this, the endometrial explant were cultured in the presence or absence of a single Day-7 in vivo (EE–artificial insemination; EE-AI) or in vitro (EE–in vitro fertilization; EE-IVF) embryo. After of culture we found, in the endometrial explant, 45 and 211 differentially expressed genes associated with embryo presence and origin, respectively. Small extracellular vesicles were recovered from the conditioned media (CM) in which endometrial explant and embryos were co-cultured. Four miRNAs were differentially expressed between small extracellular vesicles from CC-EE-AI and CC-EE-IVF. Luteal explants exposed in culture to these small extracellular vesicles showed 1360 transcripts and 15 miRNAs differentially expressed. The differentially expressed genes associated with embryo presence and origin, modulating cells’ proliferation, and survival. These results demonstrate that in vivo- or in vitro-produced bovine embryos induce molecular alterations in the endometrium; and that the embryo and endometrium release small extracellular vesicles capable of modifying the messenger RNA (mRNA) and miRNA profile in the corpus luteum. Therefore, the small extracellular vesicles-mediated embryo–endometrium–corpus luteum interactions possibly regulate the corpus luteum viability to ensure pregnancy success.
Live cell fluorescence microscopy—an end-to-end workflow for high-throughput image and data analysis
Authors: Zahumensky Jakub , Malinsky Jan
Published: October 2024

Fluorescence microscopy images of biological samples contain valuable information but require rigorous analysis for accurate and reliable determination of changes in protein localization, fluorescence intensity, and morphology of the studied objects. Traditionally, cells for microscopy are immobilized using chemicals, which can introduce stress. Analysis often focuses only on colocalization and involves manual segmentation and measurement, which are time-consuming and can introduce bias. Our new workflow addresses these issues by gently immobilizing cells using a small agarose block on a microscope coverslip. This approach is suitable for cell-walled cells (yeast, fungi, plants, bacteria), facilitates their live imaging under conditions close to their natural environment and enables the addition of chemicals during time-lapse experiments. The primary focus of the protocol is on the presented analysis workflow, which is applicable to virtually any cell type—we describe cell segmentation using the Cellpose software followed by automated analysis of a multitude of parameters using custom-written Fiji (ImageJ) macros. The results can be easily processed using the provided R markdown scripts or available graphing software. Our method facilitates unbiased batch analysis of large datasets, improving the efficiency and accuracy of fluorescence microscopy research. The reported sample preparation protocol and Fiji macros were used in our recent publications: Microbiol Spectr (2022), DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.01961-22; Microbiol Spectr (2022), DOI: 10.1128/spectrum.02489-22; J Cell Sci (2023), DOI: 10.1242/jcs.260554.
Direct interrogation of cortical interneuron circuits in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: van den Bos Mehdi A J , Menon Parvathi , Pavey Nathan , Higashihara Mana , Kiernan Matthew C , Vucic Steve
Published: October 2024

Cortical hyperexcitability is a key pathogenic feature of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), believed to be mediated through complex interplay of cortical interneurons. To date, there has been no technological approach to facilitate the direct capture of cortical interneuron function.

Through combination of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) with advanced EEG, the present study examined GABAergic dysfunction in ALS by recording focused cortical output whilst applying TMS over the primary motor cortex contralateral to the site of symptom onset. Using both a single-pulse and a novel inhibitory paired-pulse paradigm, TMS-EEG studies were undertaken on 21 ALS patients and results compared with healthy controls. TMS responses captured by EEG form a discrete waveform known as the transcranial evoked potential (TEP), with positive (P) or upward deflections occurring at 30 (P30), 60 (P60) and 190 ms (P190) after TMS stimulus. Negative (N) or downward deflections occur at 44 (N44), 100 (N100) and 280 ms (N280) after TMS stimulus. The single-pulse TEPs recorded in ALS patients demonstrated novel differences suggestive of cortical GABAergic dysfunction. When compared with controls, the N100 component was significantly reduced (P < 0.05), whereas the P190 component increased (P < 0.05) in ALS patients. Additionally, the N44 component was correlated with muscle weakness (r = −0.501, P < 0.05). These findings were supported by reduced paired-pulse inhibition of TEP components in ALS patients (P60, P < 0.01; N100, P < 0.005), consistent with dysfunction of cortical interneuronal GABAA-ergic circuits. Furthermore, the reduction in short-interval intracortical inhibition, as reflected by changes in paired-pulse inhibition of the N100 component, was associated with longer disease duration in ALS patients (r = −0.698, P < 0.001).

In conclusion, intensive and focused interrogation of the motor cortex using novel TMS-EEG combined technologies has established localized dysfunction of GABAergic circuits, supporting the notion that cortical hyperexcitability is mediated by cortical disinhibition in ALS. Dysfunction of GABAergic circuits was correlated with greater clinical disability and disease duration, implying pathophysiological significance.
Brain state identification and neuromodulation to promote recovery of consciousness
Authors: van der Lande Glenn J M , Casas-Torremocha Diana , Manasanch Arnau , Dalla Porta Leonardo , Gosseries Olivia , Alnagger Naji , Barra Alice , Mejías Jorge F , Panda Rajanikant , Riefolo Fabio , Thibaut Aurore , Bonhomme Vincent , Thirion Bertrand , Clasca Francisco , Gorostiza Pau , Sanchez-Vives Maria V , Deco Gustavo , Laureys Steven , Zamora-López Gorka , Annen Jitka
Published: October 2024

Experimental and clinical studies of consciousness identify brain states (i.e. quasi-stable functional cerebral organization) in a non-systematic manner and largely independent of the research into brain state modulation. In this narrative review, we synthesize advances in the identification of brain states associated with consciousness in animal models and physiological (sleep), pharmacological (anaesthesia) and pathological (disorders of consciousness) states of altered consciousness in humans. We show that in reduced consciousness the frequencies in which the brain operates are slowed down and that the pattern of functional communication is sparser, less efficient, and less complex. The results also highlight damaged resting-state networks, in particular the default mode network, decreased connectivity in long-range connections and especially in the thalamocortical loops. Next, we show that therapeutic approaches to treat disorders of consciousness, through pharmacology (e.g. amantadine, zolpidem), and (non-) invasive brain stimulation (e.g. transcranial direct current stimulation, deep brain stimulation) have shown partial effectiveness in promoting consciousness recovery. Although some features of conscious brain states may improve in response to neuromodulation, targeting often remains non-specific and does not always lead to (behavioural) improvements. The fields of brain state identification and neuromodulation of brain states in relation to consciousness are showing fascinating developments that, when integrated, might propel the development of new and better-targeted techniques for disorders of consciousness. We here propose a therapeutic framework for the identification and modulation of brain states to facilitate the interaction between the two fields. We propose that brain states should be identified in a predictive setting, followed by theoretical and empirical testing (i.e. in animal models, under anaesthesia and in patients with a disorder of consciousness) of neuromodulation techniques to promote consciousness in line with such predictions. This framework further helps to identify where challenges and opportunities lay for the maturation of brain state research in the context of states of consciousness. It will become apparent that one angle of opportunity is provided through the addition of computational modelling. Finally, it aids in recognizing possibilities and obstacles for the clinical translation of these diagnostic techniques and neuromodulation treatment options across both the multimodal and multi-species approaches outlined throughout the review.
From gay liberation to backlash: producing pride and New York’s LGBTQ public culture on The Emerald City
Authors: Herold Lauren
Published: October 2024

This article explores how The Emerald City (1977–1979), an LGBTQ public access cable television show, represented the evolving sociopolitical and geographic contexts of New York City in the 1970s and mediated the concept “gay pride.” Tracing its emplacement in New York alongside the development of cable television, this article discusses how the series played a role in producing dominant queer cultural imaginations of the city. Combining analysis of the show’s episodes with archival research and interviews with The Emerald City co-producer Steven Bie, this article argues both for the potential of public access to produce liberatory affective experiences of pride, as well as its role in idealizing a gay imaginary of New York limited by racialized and classed hierarchies. This article demonstrates how public access in the US provided opportunities for marginalized producers to experiment with creating gay television, as well as the structural constraints that limited its political promise.
Pneumococcal serotype-specific antibodies in children with recurrent oto-sinopulmonary infections
Authors: Ale Hanadys , Calderon Jose G , Gruber Joshua , Taylor Thomas , Blouin William R , Hernández-Trujillo Vivian P
Published: October 2024

Low titers to pneumococcal vaccine are a frequent finding in pediatric patients with recurrent oto-sinopulmonary infections. To characterize the pre- and post-immunization antibody trend for each serotype included in the pneumococcal 13-valent conjugate vaccine, in a cohort of pediatric patients with recurrent oto-sinopulmonary infections, this retrospective review identified 182 patients with recurrent oto-sinopulmonary infections (131 required an immune workup and 99 had low pneumococcal titers leading to a pneumococcal 13-valent conjugate vaccine booster). Baseline pneumococcal serotype-specific antibody titers at the initial visit and 6 weeks after the vaccine booster were obtained. An adequate response to the pneumococcal conjugate vaccine was deemed to be a 4-fold increase over baseline and/or a post-immunization titer of 1.3 µg/ml or greater. Overall, The pneumococcal 13-valent conjugate vaccine booster provided a significant improvement in the number of protective titers, increasing from 3.6 serotypes at baseline to 11.1 serotypes at 6 weeks (P < 0.001). This increase correlated with improved clinical outcomes (81% showed no signs of recurrent infection after the first booster and 94% after a second booster). Post-immunization antibody concentrations were significantly higher than at baseline for all serotypes (P < 0.05), and only 8, 9N, and 12F did not exhibit a greater than 4-fold increase (P > 0.05) 6 weeks following booster. There were no differences between patients at different ages in post-immunization titer levels for all serotypes. In pediatric patients with recurrent oto-sinopulmonary infections, an additional pneumococcal booster proved to be effective in the protection of these children against further infections, across all age groups.
The sulci of the lateral superior parietal lobule: anatomical overview and nomenclatural consideration
Authors: Bakhit Mudathir , Hiruta Ryo , Iwatate Kensho , Fujii Masazumi
Published: October 2024

Discrepancies in the terminology describing sulcal structures within the lateral superior parietal lobule prompted our comprehensive investigation to clarify their morphology and nomenclature. We reviewed literature from the 19th century to the present, focusing on the intraparietal sulcus, interparietal sulcus, superior parietal sulcus, transverse parietal sulcus, paroccipital sulcus, and transverse occipital sulcus. Additionally, we analyzed neuroimaging data from 40 healthy young adults and two cadavers. Our investigation revealed that the original term intraparietal sulcus, introduced by Sir Turner, described a complex structure comprising the inferior segment of the postcentral sulcus, a horizontally extending component into the occipital lobe, and the transverse occipital sulcus. We also found that the superior parietal sulcus is often synonymous with transverse parietal sulcus, the sulcus of Brissaud is an eponym that shall describe the paroccipital sulcus’s dorsal parietal ramus, and the transverse occipital sulcus is the combination of the occipital rami of the paroccipital sulcus. Additionally, we identified an unnamed transverse segment of the intraparietal sulcus, the intraparietal sulcus–transverse. Based on these observations, we consider that the sulci of the lateral superior parietal lobule primarily include the intraparietal sulcus, with longitudinal and transverse segments, the transverse parietal sulcus of Brissaud, and the paroccipital sulcus of Wilder.
Emotional future simulations: neural and cognitive perspectives
Authors: Schacter Daniel L , Kalinowski Sarah E , Wilson Jenna M
Published: October 2024

LeDoux’s work on the emotional brain has had broad impact in neuroscience and psychology. Here, we discuss an aspect of the emotional brain that we have examined in our laboratory during the past two decades: emotional future simulations or constructed mental representations of positive and negative future experiences. Specifically, we consider research concerning (i) neural correlates of emotional future simulations, (ii) how emotional future simulations impact subsequent cognition and memory, (iii) the role of emotional future simulations in worry and anxiety, and (iv) individual differences in emotional future simulation related to narcissistic grandiosity. The intersection of emotion and future simulation is closely linked to some of LeDoux’s primary scientific concerns.
Severe hypophosphatemia induced by excessive production of FGF23 in acute hepatitis: from bedside to bench
Authors: Hamroun Aghiles , Boukrout Nihad , Cauffiez Christelle , Fellah Sandy , Van der Hauwaert Cynthia , Pottier Nicolas , Mentaverri Romuald , Zaworski Jeremy , Gnemmi Viviane , Gibier Jean-Baptiste , Letavernier Emmanuel , Louvet Alexandre , Provôt François , Lenain Rémi , Maanaoui Mehdi , Glowacki François , Lionet Arnaud
Published: October 2024

Background

Although hepatic production of FGF23 has been suggested in chronic settings, there are no data indicating hypophosphatemia resulting from acute hepatic FGF23 production. Based on two clinical observations of profound hypophosphatemia in the setting of acute hepatitis, our study investigates the hypothesis of acute FGF23 liver expression.

Methods

Retrospective analyses were conducted to estimate FGF23 liver expression both qualitatively (in situ hybridization) and quantitatively (relative FGF23 gene expression and protein production) on histological specimens of human and murine acute hepatitis livers, compared with controls of hepatic fibrosis or healthy liver.

Results

The index clinical case involves acute alcoholic hepatitis complicated by profound hypophosphatemia due to phosphate diabetes, revealing a major production of both FGF23 C-terminal fraction (cFGF23) and bio-intact form (iFGF23, 39 751 RU/mL, N: 21–91; and 228.6 pg/mL, N: 22.7–93.1, respectively). A second case of acute hepatitis related to erythrocytic protoporphyria also exhibited comparable abnormalities. In both cases, no other cause of renal phosphate wasting was identified, and the hydroelectrolytic disorders disappeared in parallel with normalization of the liver balance and FGF23 levels. Histological data of acute hepatitis compared with cirrhosis and healthy liver confirmed our hypothesis of hepatic FGF23 overproduction. Furthermore, mouse models showed a significant increase in FGF23 mRNA relative liver expression in acute hepatitis and a moderate increase in cirrhosis, compared with healthy liver (respectively 60.55 ± 16.75 and 3.70 ± 0.87 vs 1.00 ± 0.65, both P < .05). These findings were also confirmed at the protein level.

Conclusion

This translational study raises the hypothesis of renal phosphate wasting induced by excessive hepatic production of FGF23 in case of acute hepatitis.
Evolutionary Modes of wtf Meiotic Driver Genes in Schizosaccharomyces pombe
Authors: Xu Yan-Hui , Suo Fang , Zhang Xiao-Ran , Du Tong-Yang , Hua Yu , Jia Guo-Song , Zheng Jin-Xin , Du Li-Lin
Published: October 2024

Killer meiotic drivers are a class of selfish genetic elements that bias inheritance in their favor by destroying meiotic progeny that do not carry them. How killer meiotic drivers evolve is not well understood. In the fission yeast, Schizosaccharomyces pombe, the largest gene family, known as the wtf genes, is a killer meiotic driver family that causes intraspecific hybrid sterility. Here, we investigate how wtf genes evolve using long-read–based genome assemblies of 31 distinct S. pombe natural isolates, which encompass the known genetic diversity of S. pombe. Our analysis, involving nearly 1,000 wtf genes in these isolates, yields a comprehensive portrayal of the intraspecific diversity of wtf genes. Leveraging single-nucleotide polymorphisms in adjacent unique sequences, we pinpoint wtf gene-containing loci that have recently undergone gene conversion events and infer their ancestral state. These events include the revival of wtf pseudogenes, lending support to the notion that gene conversion plays a role in preserving this gene family from extinction. Moreover, our investigation reveals that solo long terminal repeats of retrotransposons, frequently found near wtf genes, can act as recombination arms, influencing the upstream regulatory sequences of wtf genes. Additionally, our exploration of the outer boundaries of wtf genes uncovers a previously unrecognized type of directly oriented repeats flanking wtf genes. These repeats may have facilitated the early expansion of the wtf gene family in S. pombe. Our findings enhance the understanding of the mechanisms influencing the evolution of this killer meiotic driver gene family.