bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
More water, less light: how to improve silver fir seeding to convert Norway spruce monocultures into mixed stands in a drier region of Germany
Authors: Schattenberg Christian , Stritih Ana , Thom Dominik 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Adaptive forest management gains importance as climate and disturbance regimes continue to change. Norway spruce monocultures are particularly vulnerable to those changes. Thus, there is a strong demand to convert pure spruce stands toward better adapted forest ecosystems. Silver fir has similar wood properties as Norway spruce, but is less vulnerable to droughts. Yet, little is known how to efficiently admix silver fir into Norway spruce monocultures. We analyzed seedling abundance in mature Norway spruce monocultures 1 year after soil scarification and silver fir seeding in a relatively dry region of southern Germany. Our objectives were to study the effect of soil scarification and seeding on regeneration density and to identify drivers of seedling abundance. We collected data on regeneration, forest structure, as well as soil and light conditions at 103 scarified and 25 untreated control plots. We used non-parametric independence tests to compare scarified and untreated plots. Subsequently, we used boosted regression trees to investigate the drivers of seedling abundance. Norway spruce strongly benefited from soil scarification (P &lt; .001), with seedling numbers even exceeding those of silver fir. Both species thrived in soils with high plant available water capacity. In contrast, seedling numbers were overall negatively affected by light. Moreover, we found a higher density of silver fir regeneration at greater distance from neighboring trees and in soils devoid of carbonate. Our study indicates that water, not light, is the limiting factor for both Norway spruce and silver fir seedlings in the study region. Seeding silver fir will likely be most effective underneath an intact canopy on deep, fine-textured soils without carbonate, while maximizing the distance to Norway spruce trees. In conclusion, silver fir seeding can be optimized to become an effective adaptive measure to diversify Norway spruce monocultures, and thus to create more resistant and resilient forest ecosystems.
Phosphodiesterases Mediate the Augmentation of Myogenic Constriction by Inhibitory G Protein Signaling and is Negatively Modulated by the Dual Action of RGS2 and 5
Authors: Sun Bo , Smith Nia , Dixon Alethia J , Osei-Owusu Patrick 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
G protein regulation by regulators of G protein signaling (RGS) proteins play a key role in vascular tone maintenance. The loss of Gi/o and Gq/11 regulation by RGS2 and RGS5 in non-pregnant mice is implicated in augmented vascular tone and decreased uterine blood flow (UBF). RGS2 and 5 are closely related and co-expressed in uterine arteries (UA). However, whether and how RGS2 and 5 coordinate their regulatory activities to finetune G protein signaling and regulate vascular tone are unclear. Here, we determined how the integrated activity of RGS2 and 5 modulates vascular tone to promote UBF. Using ultrasonography and pressure myography, we examined uterine hemodynamics and myogenic tone (MT) of UA of wild type (WT), Rgs2−/−, Rgs5−/−, and Rgs2/5 dbKO mice. We found that MT was reduced in Rgs5−/− relative to WT or Rgs2−/− UA. Activating Gi/o with dopamine increased, whereas exogenous cAMP decreased MT in Rgs5−/− UA to levels in WT UA. Dual deletion of Rgs2 and 5 abolished the reduced MT due to the absence of Rgs5 and enhanced dopamine-induced Gi/o effects in Rgs2/5 dbKO UA. Conversely, and as in WT UA, Gi/o inhibition with pertussis toxin or exogenous cAMP decreased MT in Rgs2/5 dbKO to levels in Rgs5−/− UA. Inhibition of phosphodiesterases (PDE) concentration-dependently decreased and normalized MT in all genotypes, and blocked dopamine-induced MT augmentation in Rgs2−/−, Rgs5−/−, and Rgs2/5 dbKO UA. We conclude that Gi/o augments UA MT in the absence of RGS2 by a novel mechanism involving PDE-mediated inhibition of cAMP-dependent vasodilatation..
First whole-genome sequence and assembly of the Ecuadorian brown-headed spider monkey (Ateles fusciceps fusciceps), a critically endangered species, using Oxford Nanopore Technologies
Authors: Pozo Gabriela , Albuja-Quintana Martina , Larreátegui Lizbeth , Gutiérrez Bernardo , Fuentes Nathalia , Alfonso-Cortés Felipe , Torres Maria de Lourdes 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
The Ecuadorian brown-headed spider monkey (Ateles fusciceps fusciceps) is currently considered one of the most endangered primates in the world and is classified as critically endangered [International union for conservation of nature (IUCN)]. It faces multiple threats, the most significant one being habitat loss due to deforestation in western Ecuador. Genomic tools are keys for the management of endangered species, but this requires a reference genome, which until now was unavailable for A. f. fusciceps. The present study reports the first whole-genome sequence and assembly of A. f. fusciceps generated using Oxford Nanopore long reads. DNA was extracted from a subadult male, and libraries were prepared for sequencing following the Ligation Sequencing Kit SQK-LSK112 workflow. Sequencing was performed using a MinION Mk1C sequencer. The sequencing reads were processed to generate a genome assembly. Two different assemblers were used to obtain draft genomes using raw reads, of which the Flye assembly was found to be superior. The final assembly has a total length of 2.63 Gb and contains 3,861 contigs, with an N50 of 7,560,531 bp. The assembly was analyzed for annotation completeness based on primate ortholog prediction using a high-resolution database, and was found to be 84.3% complete, with a low number of duplicated genes indicating a precise assembly. The annotation of the assembly predicted 31,417 protein-coding genes, comparable with other mammal assemblies. A reference genome for this critically endangered species will allow researchers to gain insight into the genetics of its populations and thus aid conservation and management efforts of this vulnerable species.
Shared evolutionary processes shape landscapes of genomic variation in the great apes
Authors: Rodrigues Murillo F , Kern Andrew D , Ralph Peter L 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
For at least the past 5 decades, population genetics, as a field, has worked to describe the precise balance of forces that shape patterns of variation in genomes. The problem is challenging because modeling the interactions between evolutionary processes is difficult, and different processes can impact genetic variation in similar ways. In this paper, we describe how diversity and divergence between closely related species change with time, using correlations between landscapes of genetic variation as a tool to understand the interplay between evolutionary processes. We find strong correlations between landscapes of diversity and divergence in a well-sampled set of great ape genomes, and explore how various processes such as incomplete lineage sorting, mutation rate variation, GC-biased gene conversion and selection contribute to these correlations. Through highly realistic, chromosome-scale, forward-in-time simulations, we show that the landscapes of diversity and divergence in the great apes are too well correlated to be explained via strictly neutral processes alone. Our best fitting simulation includes both deleterious and beneficial mutations in functional portions of the genome, in which 9% of fixations within those regions is driven by positive selection. This study provides a framework for modeling genetic variation in closely related species, an approach which can shed light on the complex balance of forces that have shaped genetic variation.
2-D seismic wave propagation using the distributional finite-difference method: further developments and potential for global seismology
Authors: Masson Yder , Lyu Chao , Moczo Peter , Capdeville Yann , Romanowicz Barbara , Virieux Jean 
Published: January 2024

SUMMARY
We present a time-domain distributional finite-difference scheme based on the Lebedev staggered grid for the numerical simulation of wave propagation in acoustic and elastic media. The central aspect of the proposed method is the representation of the stresses and displacements with different sets of B-splines functions organized according to the staggered grid. The distributional finite-difference approach allows domain-decomposition, heterogeneity of the medium, curvilinear mesh, anisotropy, non-conformal interfaces, discontinuous grid and fluid–solid interfaces. Numerical examples show that the proposed scheme is suitable to model wave propagation through the Earth, where sharp interfaces separate large, relatively homogeneous layers. A few domains or elements are sufficient to represent the Earth’s internal structure without relying on advanced meshing techniques. We compare seismograms obtained with the proposed scheme and the spectral element method, and we show that our approach offers superior accuracy, reduced memory usage, and comparable efficiency.
Slow slip event displacement on 2018 offshore Boso Peninsula detected by Sentinel-1 InSAR time-series analysis with numerical weather model assistance
Authors: Kinoshita Yohei , Furuta Ryoichi 
Published: January 2024

SUMMARY
The south-eastern offshore of the Boso Peninsula in Japan periodically experiences short-term slow slip events (SSEs) every few years. On 2018 June, an SSE occurred with the maximum surface horizontal displacement reaching up to 4.7 cm by according to the operational global navigation satellite system (GNSS) network. This study performed a time-series analysis of interferometric synthetic aperture radar (InSAR) with Sentinel-1 SAR images to investigate detailed spatial pattern of surface displacements caused by the SSE. With the assistance of an atmospheric delay correction with a regional numerical weather model output, the InSAR time-series analysis successfully captured displacement signals in three paths, whose maximum amplitudes in line-of-sight directions were 1.46, 1.86 and −0.80 cm. A checkerboard test revealed that the resolution of the slip inversion was higher when InSAR was used than that using GNSS, especially in and around the inland. The slip inversion with the actual displacement data derived from the InSAR time-series analysis was performed with the L-curve optimization, showing that the estimated slip area was concentrated offshore south-eastward from the Boso Peninsula with the maximum slip of 5 cm and the estimated moment magnitude of 6.4. As similar to previous SSEs in the Boso Peninsula, a seismic swarm simultaneously occurred in the downdip area adjacent to the estimated slip with the SSE occurrence, suggesting a different friction characteristics between them. This study demonstrates usefulnesses of the InSAR observation for capturing detailed spatial characteristics of small-displacement events like SSEs and of the hybrid use of the externally derived delay correction with the time-series analysis to improve the displacement detection accuracy.
Cubic moment–duration relationship of low-frequency earthquakes
Authors: Oikawa Genki , Aso Naofumi 
Published: January 2024

SUMMARY
Low-frequency earthquakes (LFEs) are seismic phenomena with the shortest timescale among various slow earthquakes observed on broad-band timescales. To understand the nature of such a broad-band slow phenomenon, it is important to investigate the rupture evolution process of individual slow events, such as LFEs. Here, we investigated the moment–duration relationship of LFEs at plate interfaces and volcanic regions, and showed that the moment–duration relationship of both tectonic and volcanic LFEs is characterized by a moment proportional to the cubic duration, similar to that in ordinary earthquakes. The difference between our obtained moment–duration relationship and the broad-band scaling suggests that the evolution process of LFEs may not be controlled, but only triggered by the slow earthquakes with longer durations, such as slow slip events driven by aseismic diffusion. The seismic moments of the LFEs are approximately three orders of magnitude smaller than those of ordinary earthquakes with similar durations. This result indicates that LFEs have rupture growth similar to that of ordinary earthquakes, although the rupture velocity and/or stress drop are much smaller. Considering the hypocentre spread of LFEs, the estimated rupture velocity and stress drop were approximately 100 m /s–1 km /s and 2 kPa–1 MPa, respectively. Additionally, the estimated moment magnitudes are much larger than the local magnitudes determined based on the maximum amplitudes, which is due to the longer durations and resultant smaller amplitudes of LFEs than those of ordinary earthquakes.
US seniors' intention to vaccinate against RSV in fall and winter 2023–2024
Authors: Haeder Simon F 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
In the fall and winter of 2023–2024, the United States may experience a “tripledemic” of COVID-19, influenza, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) that may lead to 100 000 deaths. Seniors will be disproportionally affected. The newly released RSV vaccines for those age 60 years and over may reduce the number of deaths for the expected 6000 to 10 000 seniors expected to die from RSV alone. Using a large national survey, we queried Americans over age 60 about their RSV vaccination status and their intention to vaccinate this fall and winter. We found that 9% of seniors had already been vaccinated. Of the remaining unvaccinated, 42% indicated their intent to vaccinate. We found that those with higher levels of concerns for the disease, higher levels of self-assessed risk, believing that vaccines were safe and important, higher levels of trust in health institutions, and men were more likely to seek out vaccinations. Vaccine-hesitant respondents listed a lack of necessity, concerns about side effects and safety, and a lack of information as primary reasons. The large number of unvaccinated seniors will likely lead to an excessive number of hospitalizations and deaths as well as augmented social costs. Evidence-based mitigation measures tailored to seniors' concerns should be implemented immediately.
Implementation of the GAA ‘healthy clubs project’ in Ireland: a qualitative study using the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research
Authors: Van Hoye A , Regan C , Lane A , Vuillemin A , Woods C 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
The sports clubs’ role in promoting health has been acknowledged by policy makers and researchers, but there is little evidence on how sports clubs implement health-related interventions. The present article investigates the Gaelic Athletic Association Healthy Club Project (HCP) implementation process (mechanisms, barriers, leverages) over a 10-year timeframe. A case study design helped to produce and compare a data synthesis for five clubs involved since 2013. A qualitative iterative data collection, including document analysis was conducted through 20 focus groups with Healthy Club Officers, coaches, participants and members. The Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research was used in the deductive analysis process, conducted by the first author. Results have shown the success of the HCP in placing health promotion on the agenda of sports clubs leading to informal policy for health promotion, even if activities and recognition are directed toward and coming from the community. This study also underlines the virtuous cycle of the settings-based approach in enhancing membership and volunteer recognition through health promotion actions, and the importance of social good and corporate social activities for sports clubs. Nevertheless, the HCP still relies on limited human resources, is not recognized by competitive oriented adult playing members. and acknowledged as a resource by some coaches, limiting its rootedness in the core business of sports clubs. Future research should empower the HCP community to focus on organizational changes and develop outcomes for individuals, for the club as a whole as well as for the local community.
Una cuestión de desconfianza: La consagración de disposiciones constitucionales altamente específicasA question of distrust: The drafting of highly specific constitutional provisions
Authors: Guiloff Matías , Mellado y Gonzalo 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
The purpose of this article is to analyze the role played by distrust as a determinant of the level of specificity of constitutional clauses. It is argued that, as with other mechanisms, such as qualified legislation, very detailed constitutional clauses are explained by the level of trust or distrust that the drafters have in the bodies that will implement them (the legislature, administrative agencies and the courts). Thus, keeping other factors constant, the greater this distrust, the more detailed the clauses will be. This thesis will be illustrated by the example of the debate in the Chilean Constitutional Convention on the explicit extension of the right of private property to pension funds or social security savings.
Pathology and Monkeypox virus Localization in Tissues From Immunocompromised Patients With Severe or Fatal Mpox
Authors: Ritter Jana M , Martines Roosecelis B , Bhatnagar Julu , Rao Agam K , Villalba Julian A , Silva-Flannery Luciana , Lee Elizabeth , Bullock Hannah A , Hutson Christina L , Cederroth Terra , Harris Cynthia K , Hord Kristin , Xu Ya , Brown Cameron A , Guccione Jack P , Miller Matthew , Paddock Christopher D , Reagan-Steiner Sarah ,   Mpox Pathology Working Group, Carter Jasmine , Seixas Josilene N , Lee James , Cash-Goldwasser Shama , Bower William A , Schrodt Caroline A , Bamrah Morris Sapna , Alarcón Jemma , Evans Mark G 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

Background
Pathology and Monkeypox virus (MPXV) tissue tropism in severe and fatal human mpox is not thoroughly described but can help elucidate the disease pathogenesis and the role of coinfections in immunocompromised patients.

Methods
We analyzed biopsy and autopsy tissues from 22 patients with severe or fatal outcomes to characterize pathology and viral antigen and DNA distribution in tissues by immunohistochemistry and in situ hybridization. Tissue-based testing for coinfections was also performed.

Results
Mucocutaneous lesions showed necrotizing and proliferative epithelial changes. Deceased patients with autopsy tissues evaluated had digestive tract lesions, and half had systemic tissue necrosis with thrombotic vasculopathy in lymphoid tissues, lung, or other solid organs. Half also had bronchopneumonia, and one-third had acute lung injury. All cases had MPXV antigen and DNA detected in tissues. Coinfections were identified in 5 of 16 (31%) biopsy and 4 of 6 (67%) autopsy cases.

Conclusions
Severe mpox in immunocompromised patients is characterized by extensive viral infection of tissues and viremic dissemination that can progress despite available therapeutics. Digestive tract and lung involvement are common and associated with prominent histopathological and clinical manifestations. Coinfections may complicate mpox diagnosis and treatment. Significant viral DNA (likely correlating to infectious virus) in tissues necessitates enhanced biosafety measures in healthcare and autopsy settings.
Compartmentalized SARS-CoV-2 Replication in the Upper vs Lower Respiratory Tract After Intranasal Inoculation or Aerosol Exposure
Authors: Fischer Robert J , Bushmaker Trenton , Williamson Brandi N , Pérez-Pérez Lizzette , Feldmann Friederike , Lovaglio Jamie , Scott Dana , Saturday Greg , Feldmann Heinz , Munster Vincent J , de Wit Emmie , van Doremalen Neeltje 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Nonhuman primate models are essential for the development of vaccines and antivirals against infectious diseases. Rhesus macaques are a widely utilized infection model for SARS-CoV-2. We compared cellular tropism and virus replication in rhesus macaques inoculated with SARS-CoV-2 via the intranasal route or via exposure to aerosols. Intranasal inoculation resulted in replication in the upper respiratory tract with limited involvement in the lower respiratory tract, whereas exposure to aerosols resulted in infection throughout the respiratory tract. In comparison with multiroute inoculation, intranasal and aerosol inoculation resulted in reduced SARS-CoV-2 replication in the respiratory tract.
Role of Histiocyte-Derived frHMGB1 as a Facilitator in Noncanonical Pyroptosis of Monocytes/Macrophages in Lethal Sepsis
Authors: Tian Yu , Cao Yuwen , Liu Fang , Xia Lin , Wang Chao , Su Zhaoliang 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
In this study, we investigated the role of the noncanonical pyroptosis pathway in the progression of lethal sepsis. Our findings emphasize the significance of noncanonical pyroptosis in monocytes/macrophages for the survival of septic mice. We observed that inhibiting pyroptosis alone significantly improved the survival rate of septic mice and that the HMGB1 A box effectively suppressed this noncanonical pyroptosis, thereby enhancing the survival of septic mice. Additionally, our cell in vitro experiments unveiled that frHMGB1, originating from lipopolysaccharide-carrying histiocytes, entered macrophages via RAGE, resulting in the direct activation of caspase 11 and the induction of noncanonical pyroptosis. Notably, A box's competitive binding with lipopolysaccharide impeded its entry into the cell cytosol. These findings reveal potential therapeutic strategies for slowing the progression of lethal sepsis by modulating the noncanonical pyroptosis pathway.
Obstetric transition: trends in maternal mortality in Somalia over the last two decades
Authors: Aweis Ahmed , Osoble Abdirahman H , Mohamed Suleyman A , Aweis Abdulkadir 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

Background
This paper sheds light on the trends of the maternal mortality ratio (MMR) and obstetric transition in Somalia over the last two decades.

Methods
This is a descriptive study comparing aggregate secondary data from the 2006 Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey and the 2020 Somali Health and Demographic Survey to show the transition.

Results
A 44% reduction of the MMR from 1044 to 692 per 100 000 live births was observed comparing the two surveys.

Conclusions
Somalia has moved from stage I to stage II of the obstetric transition pathway spectrum and there is optimism that the ongoing strengthening of the health system is paying off.