bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Functional transgenes in Mexican maize: benefits and risks for insect pest management in Mexico and the United States
Authors: Blanco Carlos A , Hernandez Gerardo , Dively Galen , Conover Kevin , Portilla Maribel , Valentini Giseli , Fosado Antonio , Abel Craig A , Guzmán Homero , Occelli Laura , Knolhoff Lisa , Corona Miguel , Blanco Tania , Ward Tina , Nava-Camberos Urbano , Di-Bella Victor , Hutchison W D 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Corn earworm (Helicoverpa zea) and fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda) are major migratory pests of maize (Zea mays) in the United States and Mexico. They are primarily controlled in the United States with genetically engineered (GE) maize, while the 25-yr moratorium on cultivating GE maize in Mexico has forced growers to control these pests with insecticides, where maize productivity remains 35% below the world’s average. The United States annually exports 5% of its maize grain to Mexico, where it provides human food and animal feed. This seed is often sown by smallholder growers, leading to plantings of GE transgene-expressing maize and potential hybridization with local landraces. As a result, transgenes are now present in Mexican maize products and landraces. In this study, we examined the F1 offspring of GE maize to better understand the frequency of different transgenes expressed in maize seeds exported to Mexico. We show that exported seed contains numerous transgenes, including an estimated ~68% epsps expressing resistance to the herbicide glyphosate; ~80% pat and bar expressing resistance to the herbicide glufosinate; and ~82% Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) genes that effectively protect maize plants from several insect pests. We tested 134 samples, including landraces from 10 Mexican states, and found that 35% expressed resistance to glyphosate and 33% to glufosinate. Many samples containing herbicide resistance also expressed 11%–100% functional Bt transgenes, which can effectively reduce the refuge area provided by Mexican maize and increase the Bt-resistant allele frequency. We discuss ways that the introgression of transgenes could provide pest management benefits to Mexican growers but, at the same time, accelerate the development of Bt-resistance in corn earworm and fall armyworm. Our cost-effective screening methods can be used to determine the introgression of functional herbicide resistance and Bt transgenes in maize.
Low-severity fires in the boreal region: reproductive implications for black spruce stands in between stand-replacing fire events
Authors: Alfaro-Sánchez Raquel , Johnstone Jill F , Baltzer Jennifer L 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Background and Aims
Stand-replacing crown fires are the most prevalent type of fire regime in boreal forests in North America. However, a substantial proportion of low-severity fires are found within fire perimeters. Here, we aimed to investigate the effects of low-severity fires on the reproductive potential and seedling recruitment in boreal forest stands in between stand-replacing fire events.

Methods
We recorded site and tree characteristics from 149 trees within 12 sites dominated by mature black spruce [Picea mariana (Mill.) B.S.P.] trees in the Northwest Territories, Canada. The presence of fire-scarred trees supported classification of sites as unburned or affected by low-severity fires in recent history. We used non-parametric tests to evaluate differences in site conditions between unburned and low-severity sites. We used linear and additive statistical models to evaluate differences in tree age, size and reproductive traits among unburned trees and trees from low-severity sites.

Key Results
The results showed a significantly higher density of dead black spruce trees in low-severity sites and marginally significant higher presence of permafrost. Trees from low-severity fire sites were significantly older, exhibited significantly lower tree growth and showed a tendency towards a higher probability of cone presence and percentage of open cones compared with trees from unburned sites. Surviving fire-scarred trees affected by more recent low-severity fires showed a tendency towards a higher probability of cone presence and cone production. The density of black spruce seedlings increased significantly with recent low-severity fires.

Conclusions
Trees in low-severity sites appeared to have escaped mortality from up to three fires, as indicated by fire-scar records and their older ages. Shallow permafrost at low-severity sites might cause lower flammability, allowing areas to act as fire refugia. Low-severity surface fires temporarily enhanced the reproductive capacity of surviving trees and the density of seedlings, probably as a stress response to fire events.
Paediatric-onset lymphomatoid papulosis: results of a multicentre retrospective cohort study on behalf of the EORTC Cutaneous Lymphoma Tumours Group (CLTG)
Authors: Blanchard Maël , Morren Marie-Anne , Busschots Anne-Marie , Hauben Esther , Alberti-Violetti Silvia , Berti Emilio , Avallone Gianluca , Tavoletti Gianluca , Panzone Michele , Quaglino Pietro , Colonna Cristiana , Melchers Rutger C , Vermeer Maarten H , Gniadecki Robert , Mitteldorf Christina , Gosmann Janika , Stadler Rudolf , Jonak Constanze , Oren-Shabtai Meital , Hodak Emmilia , Friedland Rivka , Gordon Emily , Geskin Larisa J , Scarisbrick Julia J , Mayo Martínez Fatima , Noguera Morel Lucero , Pehr Kevin , Amarov Boyko , Faouzi Mohamed , Nicolay Jan P , Kempf Werner , Blanchard Gabriela , Guenova Emmanuella 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Background
Lymphomatoid papulosis (LyP) is a rare cutaneous T-cell lymphoproliferative disorder. Comprehensive data on LyP in the paediatric population are scarce.

Objectives
To characterize the epidemiological, clinical, histopathological and prognostic features of paediatric LyP.

Methods
This was a retrospective multicentre international cohort study that included 87 children and adolescents with LyP diagnosed between 1998 and 2022. Patients aged ≤ 18 years at disease onset were included. LyP diagnosis was made in each centre, based on clinicopathological correlation.

Results
Eighty-seven patients from 12 centres were included. Mean age at disease onset was 7.0 years (range 3 months–18 years) with a male to female ratio of 2 : 1. Mean time between the onset of the first cutaneous lesions and diagnosis was 1.3 years (range 0–14). Initial misdiagnosis concerned 26% of patients. LyP was most often misdiagnosed as pityriasis lichenoides et varioliformis acuta, insect bites or mollusca contagiosa. Erythematous papules or papulonodules were the most frequent clinical presentation. Pruritus was specifically mentioned in 21% of patients. The main histological subtype was type A in 55% of cases. When analysed, monoclonal T-cell receptor rearrangement was found in 77% of skin biopsies. The overall survival rate was 100%, with follow-up at 5 years available for 33 patients and at 15 years for 8 patients. Associated haematological malignancy (HM) occurred in 10% of cases (n = 7/73), including four patients with mycosis fungoides, one with primary cutaneous anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL), one with systemic ALCL and one with acute myeloid leukaemia. If we compared incidence rates of cancer with the world population aged 0–19 years from 2001 to 2010, we estimated a significantly higher risk of associated malignancy in general, occurring before the age of 19 years (incidence rate ratio 87.49, 95% confidence interval 86.01–88.99).

Conclusions
We report epidemiological data from a large international cohort of children and adolescents with LyP. Overall, the disease prognosis is good, with excellent survival rates for all patients. Owing to an increased risk of associated HM, long-term follow-up should be recommended for patients with LyP.
Sphaerocrystals in seeds ofEuphorbiasubgenusEsula(Euphorbiaceae): morphology, occurrence, and relationship with phylogeny
Authors: Geltman Dmitry V , Medvedeva Nina A , Titova Galina E , Yakovleva Olga V 
Published: April 2024

AbstractThe term ‘sphaerocrystals’ (also sphaerites) in classic plant morphology was usually applied to spherical bodies visible in polarized light with a characteristic ‘Maltese cross’ and consisting of both inorganic and organic compounds. Initially sphaerocrystals were found in algal cells but were later also discovered in various organs of vascular plants (including seeds). Several authors noticed spherical particles on the seed surface and in testa cells of some Euphorbia species but a comprehensive study of this character in the genus (including the morphological origin of such particles) has not been carried out. We studied 72 species belonging to all 21 sections of Euphorbia subgenus Esula for presence of spherical particles on seed surface and in the testa using scanning, transmission, confocal laser electron microscopy, and light microscopy; histochemical and element analyses were also involved. We found that these particles have the same morphological features (including the demonstration of ‘Maltese cross’ in polarized light) as the ‘classic’ sphaerocrystals. We have recorded sphaerocrystals in 53 sampled species belonging to 20 sections of Euphorbia subgenus Esula; they are localized mostly in mesotesta cells and in some species are exuded onto the seed surface where they are often aggregated into clusters. Sphaerocrystals were absent in the sampled species (with one exception) of one of the major clades of the subgenus, formed by E. sect. Helioscopia and E. sect. Holophyllum. The absence of sphaerocrystals in this early divergent lineage of E. subgen. Esula may be related with adaptation of species of this lineage to more mesic habitats.
BoaBZR1.1 mediates brassinosteroid-induced carotenoid biosynthesis in Chinese kale
Authors: Zhang Chenlu , Liang Qiannan , Wang Yilin , Liang Sha , Huang Zhi , Li Huanxiu , Escalona Victor Hugo , Yao Xingwei , Cheng Wenjuan , Chen Zhifeng , Zhang Fen , Wang Qiaomei , Tang Yi , Sun Bo 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Brassinazole resistant 1 (BZR1), a brassinosteroid (BR) signaling component, plays a pivotal role in regulating numerous specific developmental processes. Our study demonstrated that exogenous treatment with 2,4-epibrassinolide (EBR) significantly enhanced the accumulation of carotenoids and chlorophylls in Chinese kale (Brassica oleracea var. alboglabra). The underlying mechanism was deciphered through yeast one-hybrid (Y1H) and dual-luciferase (LUC) assays, whereby BoaBZR1.1 directly interacts with the promoters of BoaCRTISO and BoaPSY2, activating their expression. This effect was further validated through overexpression of BoaBZR1.1 in Chinese kale calli and plants, both of which exhibited increased carotenoid accumulation. Additionally, qPCR analysis unveiled upregulation of carotenoid and chlorophyll biosynthetic genes in the T1 generation of BoaBZR1.1-overexpressing plants. These findings underscored the significance of BoaBZR1.1-mediated BR signaling in regulating carotenoid accumulation in Chinese kale and suggested the potential for enhancing the nutritional quality of Chinese kale through genetic engineering of BoaBZR1.1.
Innovative arrangement of circular angled fins for maximizing the discharge performance of triple-tube heat storage systems
Authors: Kaplan Sami , Mohammed Hayder I , Hammoodi Karrar A , Mahdi Jasim M , Al-Azzawi Waleed Khalid , Ebrahimnataj Mohammad Reza , Togun Hussein , Alhassan Muataz S 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
This study introduces a novel triple-tube latent heat storage system enhanced with circular angled fins to improve solidification and heat recovery performance. The fins are arranged in staggered pattern with alternating upward and downward orientations on both sides of the PCM shell. A validated numerical model was developed using the enthalpy method to simulate the intricate heat transfer and phase change physics. Effects of circular fins geometry and operating conditions were systematically quantified on discharge rates and temperature uniformity. Four fin dimension cases (thickness × length): (2 × 5), (1 × 10), (0.66 × 15), and (0.57 × 17.5) mm2 were analyzed. The results demonstrate that fins with greater length and reduced thickness exhibit superior performance due to enhanced heat transfer capabilities, resulting in quicker solidification and faster heat retrieval. The longest 17.5-mm fins, achieving full solidification in 1973 s with 44%, 19%, and 1.9% quicker than cases with 5-mm, 10-mm, and 15-mm long fins, respectively. Incorporating an additional fin upward further reduces the solidification time by 4.5% while improving heat recovery by 3.6%. The 17.5-mm long fins increase heat discharge by 48% and outlet heat-transfer fluid temperatures by 39% versus straight fin baselines. Lower inlet heat-transfer fluid temperatures (10°C vs 20°C) reduce PCM solidification times by 31% (1755s vs 2554s) while increasing heat recovery rates by 57% (56.3 W vs 35.8 W). Overall, the integrated angled fins create a customizable latent heat storage system with greatly intensified heat transfer and thermal performance compared to conventional shell-and-tube arrangements.
Research and application of automatic mapping method of distribution network protection power supply based on knowledge graph and graph convolution network
Authors: Wang Yu , Mo Liangyuan , Wang Wei , Wei Jie , Yang Jing 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
This study aims to propose an automatic mapping method for distribution network protection based on knowledge graph (KG) and graph convolution network technology and applies it to power system. The relationship between physical entities in power grid is established by constructing KG, and multisource data fusion and analysis are realized by using graph convolution network technology, so as to realize one-click and automatic mapping of power diagram in power supply places. The distinctiveness of this study lies in the incorporation of KG and deep learning techniques into the field of power supply assurance for distribution networks, achieving automated and digitized generation of power supply assurance device diagrams with real-time dynamic updates capability. This innovation significantly enhances the level of digitization and intelligence in power supply assurance work, injecting new vitality into the field of power supply assurance for distribution networks. This method can provide a digital comprehensive and intuitive presentation for the power supply service and effectively improve the ability to grasp the equipment situation and risk situation awareness.
Long-term Elevation of Complement Factors in Cerebrospinal Fluid of Patients With Borna Disease Virus 1 Encephalitis
Authors: Bauswein Markus , Zoubaa Saida , Toelge Martina , Eidenschink Lisa , Riemenschneider Markus J , Neumann Bernhard , Lee De-Hyung , Eid Ehab , Tappe Dennis , Niller Hans Helmut , Gessner André , Schmidt Barbara , Bülow Sigrid , Angstwurm Klemens 
Published: April 2024

Abstract

Background
Borna disease virus 1 (BoDV-1) causes rare but severe zoonotic infections in humans, presenting as encephalitis. The case-fatality risk is very high and no effective countermeasures have been established so far. An immunopathology is presumed, while data on immune responses in humans are limited. Evidence of a role of the complement system in various neurological disorders and in viral infections of the central nervous system is increasing and specific inhibitors are available as therapeutic options.

Methods
In this study, we investigated factors of the complement system in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of patients with BoDV-1 infections (n = 17) in comparison to noninflammatory control CSF samples (n = 11), using a bead-based multiplex assay. In addition, immunohistochemistry was performed using postmortem brain tissue samples.

Results
We found an intrathecal elevation of complement factors of all complement pathways and an active cascade during human BoDV-1 infections. The increase of certain complement factors such as C1q was persistent, and C3 complement deposits were detected in postmortem brain sections. Intrathecal complement levels were negatively correlated with survival.

Conclusions
Further investigations are warranted to clarify whether targeting the complement cascade by specific inhibitors might be beneficial for patients suffering from severe BoDV-1 encephalitis.
Increasing Inclusion in Classroom Discussion: The Raised Block as a Classroom Response System in International Studies
Authors: Leese Bryan , Rosen Amanda M 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Discussion is one of the most frequently used pedagogical techniques in international studies classrooms, but student participation in discussion is not always inclusive and equitable. This exploratory study aims to improve the quality of student participation in classroom discussion by replacing traditional hand raising with the Raised Block. We introduce the Block and assess instructor and student use during seminar discussions in a U.S. Naval War College security studies program. A series of surveys asked students and instructors if using the Blocks increased perceptions of inclusivity during class discussion. Quantitative and qualitative analysis of the survey data showed that using the Blocks led to more varied, dynamic, and engaged student participation in seminar discussions for a slight majority of students. This was particularly the case for “quiet” and international students who may find it challenging to enter politically charged discussions common in international and security studies classrooms. By organizing participation, lowering barriers to speaking, creating a persistent signal to participate, and managing dominant students, Blocks can create space in the discussion for students who may otherwise lack access and inclusion.
Evaluation of the cyclic single-chain Fv antibody derived from nivolumab by biophysical analyses and in vitro cell-based bioassay
Authors: Kamesawa Sena , Ogawa Mizuki , Funakoshi Yoshiki , Kato Masaya , Kai Shosei , Namikawa Mana , Okazaki Kyo , Sato Takashi , Kobashigawa Yoshihiro , Morioka Hiroshi 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Single-chain Fv (scFv) is a recombinant small antibody in which a polypeptide linker connects the variable regions of the light chain (VL) and the heavy chain (VH). The practical use of scFv, however, has been prevented by its tendency to aggregate due to interchain VL–VH interactions. We recently developed a cyclic scFv whose N-terminus and C-terminus were connected by protein ligation techniques. Biophysical comparisons between cyclic and linear scFv have been conducted, but cell biological evaluations remain unexplored. Here we studied the properties of cyclic and linear scFv derived from nivolumab. Biophysical studies revealed that the thermal stability was not changed but that the antigen-binding activity was approximately 3-fold higher as a result of circularization. A cell-based PD-1/PD-L1 interaction inhibitory assay revealed that the biological activity of scFv was markedly higher in the circularized form. In addition, biophysical analysis of scFv proteins incubated in the presence of serum revealed that circularization suppressed the decrease in antigen-binding activity. It could be assumed that circularization of scFv improved stability in the presence of serum, which in turn would suggest the applicability of cyclic scFv as a biopharmaceutical format.
Low–dose infigratinib increases bone growth and corrects growth plate abnormalities in an achondroplasia mouse model
Authors: Demuynck Benoit , Flipo Justine , Kaci Nabil , Dambkowski Carl , Paull Morgan , Muslimova Elena , Shah Bhavik P , Legeai-Mallet Laurence 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Achondroplasia (ACH), the most common form of disproportionate short stature, is caused by gain–of–function point mutations in fibroblast growth factor receptor 3 (FGFR3). Abnormally elevated activation of FGFR3 modulates chondrocyte proliferation and differentiation via multiple signaling pathways, such as the MAPK pathway. Using a mouse model mimicking ACH (Fgfr3Y367C/+), we have previously shown that daily treatment with infigratinib (BGJ398), a selective and orally bioavailable FGFR1-3 inhibitor, at a dose of 2 mg/kg, significantly increased bone growth. In this study, we investigated the activity of infigratinib administered at substantially lower doses (0.2 and 0.5 mg/kg, given once daily) and using an intermittent dosing regimen (1 mg/kg every 3 days). Following a 15–day treatment period, these low dosages were sufficient to observe significant improvement of clinical hallmarks of ACH such as growth of the axial and appendicular skeleton and skull development. Immunohistological labeling demonstrated the positive impact of infigratinib on chondrocyte differentiation in the cartilage growth plate and the cartilage end plate of the vertebrae. Macroscopic and microcomputed analyses showed enlargement of the foramen magnum area at the skull base, thus improving foramen magnum stenosis, a well–recognized complication in ACH. No changes in FGF23 or phosphorus levels were observed, indicating that the treatment did not modify phosphate homeostasis. This proof–of–concept study demonstrates that infigratinib administered at low doses has the potential to be a safe and effective therapeutic option for children with ACH.
Cortical and trabecular mechanical properties in the femoral neck vary differently with changes in bone mineral density
Authors: Bittner-Frank Martin , Reisinger Andreas G , Andriotis Orestis G , Pahr Dieter H , Thurner Philipp J 
Published: April 2024

Abstract
Osteoporosis is an increasing burden for our aging society. Fracture risk assessment tool (FRAX) and areal bone mineral density (aBMD) have been mainly used as a surrogate, but only identify 46% of patients sustaining a hip fracture. Adding information about material and mechanical properties might improve the fracture risk prediction. In this study these properties were assessed of cortical and trabecular bone samples from the human femoral neck. In total, 178 trabeculae were obtained from 10 patients suffering a low-trauma fracture and 10 healthy donors (from a previous study) and 141 cortical specimens were newly manufactured from 17 low-trauma fracture patients and 15 controls. Cyclic tensile tests were performed to extract elastic, plastic, viscous, damage, and failure properties with a rheological model. No significant difference of any investigated property was determined. Interestingly, donor aBMD indicated a significant correlation with the post-yield behavior and damage accumulation (modulus degradation) of cortical bone. Cortical bone indicated a significantly larger apparent modulus (17.2 GPa), yield stress (50 MPa), viscosity (17.9 GPas), and damage accumulation (73%), but a decreased toughness (1.6 MJ/m3), than trabecular bone (8.8 GPa, 30 MPa, 9.3 GPas, 60%, 3.2 MJ/m3, respectively). Qualitatively, cortical bone displayed a linear-elastic phase, followed by a plastic phase with little post-yield hardening. In contrast, trabeculae yielded early, with a pronounced post-yield hardening phase and fractured at larger strains. Only a few correlations between donor mineral status and tissue mechanical behavior were found. It is suggested that the trabecularization of cortical bone with age and disease may not only result in a decreased bone mass, but further causes a transitioning from stiff elastic cortical to soft, viscous trabecular bone. This aspect warrants further investigation to determine its role in age- and osteoporosis-related bone fragility.