bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Damaraland mole-rats do not rely on helpers for reproduction or survival
Authors: Thorley Jack , Bensch Hanna M , Finn Kyle , Clutton-Brock Tim , Zöttl Markus 
Published: May 2023

Abstract
In eusocial invertebrates and obligate cooperative breeders, successful reproduction is dependent on assistance from non-breeding group members. Although naked (Heterocephalus glaber) and Damaraland mole-rats (Fukomys damarensis) are often described as eusocial and their groups are suggested to resemble those of eusocial insects more closely than groups of any other vertebrate, the extent to which breeding individuals benefit from the assistance of non-breeding group members is unclear. Here we show that, in wild Damaraland mole-rats, prospective female breeders usually disperse and settle alone in new burrow systems where they show high survival rates and remain in good body condition—often for several years—before being joined by males. In contrast to many obligate cooperative vertebrates, pairs reproduced successfully without non-breeding helpers, and the breeding success of experimentally formed pairs was similar to that of larger, established groups. Though larger breeding groups recruited slightly more pups than smaller groups, adult survival was independent of group size and group size had mixed effects on the growth of non-breeders. Our results suggest that Damaraland mole-rats do not need groups to survive and that cooperative breeding in the species is not obligate as pairs can—and frequently do—reproduce without the assistance of helpers. While re-emphasizing the importance of ecological constraints on dispersal in social mole-rats, the mixed effects of group size in our study suggest that indirect benefits accrued through cooperative behavior may have played a less prominent role in the evolution of mole-rat group-living than previously thought.
Linking genetic and environmental factors through marker effect networks to understand trait plasticity
Authors: Della Coletta Rafael , Liese Sharon E , Fernandes Samuel B , Mikel Mark A , Bohn Martin O , Lipka Alexander E , Hirsch Candice N 
Published: May 2023

Abstract
Understanding how plants adapt to specific environmental changes and identifying genetic markers associated with phenotypic plasticity can help breeders develop plant varieties adapted to a rapidly changing climate. Here, we propose the use of marker effect networks as a novel method to identify markers associated with environmental adaptability. These marker effect networks are built by adapting commonly used software for building gene coexpression networks with marker effects across growth environments as the input data into the networks. To demonstrate the utility of these networks, we built networks from the marker effects of ∼2,000 nonredundant markers from 400 maize hybrids across 9 environments. We demonstrate that networks can be generated using this approach, and that the markers that are covarying are rarely in linkage disequilibrium, thus representing higher biological relevance. Multiple covarying marker modules associated with different weather factors throughout the growing season were identified within the marker effect networks. Finally, a factorial test of analysis parameters demonstrated that marker effect networks are relatively robust to these options, with high overlap in modules associated with the same weather factors across analysis parameters. This novel application of network analysis provides unique insights into phenotypic plasticity and specific environmental factors that modulate the genome.
Immovable objects? Impediments to a UN Security Council resolution on climate change
Authors: McDonald Matt 
Published: May 2023

Abstract
The security implications of climate change are increasingly acknowledged in academic scholarship and in national security strategy documents. Climate change has also increasingly featured in UN Security Council (UNSC) debates since the first discussion of this topic in 2007. However, the UNSC has yet to agree a resolution formally recognizing its own role in addressing the implications of climate change for international security; a draft resolution on this issue was voted down in late 2021. Examining the statements and contours of 2021 debates preceding this vote, this article points to fundamental impediments to such a resolution, with the position of opponents (Russia, China and India) suggesting intractable obstacles linked to different visions of world order. While opponents' stated concerns about the UNSC's role in addressing climate change find some support in existing scholarship, the authenticity of claims made by opponents is called into question by the internal inconsistency of these arguments, the gap between stated concerns and foreign policy in other contexts, and the broader foreign policy interests and identities of these states. These factors present key impediments not simply to a UNSC resolution, but arguably to international action consistent with the urgency of the climate crisis.
Parameter estimation and velocity signal extraction for one-dimensional wave equation with harmonic corrupted boundary observation
Authors: Huang Shuangxi , Jin Feng-Fei 
Published: May 2023

Abstract
In this paper, we consider parameter estimation and velocity signal extraction from a disturbed boundary velocity signal for an unstable wave equation. Firstly, an adaptive observer is designed based on the boundary displacement and the corrupted boundary velocity. Then the design of the feedback law adopts the backstepping method of infinite dimensional system. Finally, as time approaches infinity, the estimated parameters converge to the unknown parameters, the initial value disturbance can be obtained, and the velocity signal can be asymptotically recovered. Meanwhile, the asymptotic stability of the closed-loop system can be proved by $C_{0}$-semigroup theory and Lyapunov method. Numerical simulation shows that the proposed scheme is reasonable.
Burden of Respiratory Syncytial Virus in the European Union: estimation of RSV-associated hospitalizations in children under 5 years
Authors: Del Riccio Marco , Spreeuwenberg Peter , Osei-Yeboah Richard , Johannesen Caroline K , Fernandez Liliana Vazquez , Teirlinck Anne C , Wang Xin , Heikkinen Terho , Bangert Mathieu , Caini Saverio , Campbell Harry , Paget John ,   the RESCEU Investigators, NAIR Harish , CAMPBELL Harry , Beutels Philippe , Bont Louis , Pollard Andrew , Openshaw Peter , Martinon-Torres Federico , Heikkinen Terho , Meijer Adam , Fischer Thea K , van den Berge Maarten , Giaquinto Carlo , Abram Michael , Swanson Kena , Rizkalla Bishoy , Vernhes Charlotte , Gallichan Scott , Aerssens Jeroen , Kumar Veena , Molero Eva 
Published: May 2023

Abstract

Background
No overall estimate of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)-associated hospitalizations in children aged under 5 years has been published for the European Union (EU). We aimed to estimate the RSV hospitalization burden in children aged under 5 years in EU countries and Norway, by age group.

Methods
We collated national RSV-associated hospitalization estimates calculated using linear regression models via the RESCEU project for Denmark, England, Finland, Norway, the Netherlands, and Scotland, 2006–2018. Additional estimates were obtained from a systematic review. Using multiple imputation and nearest neighbor matching methods, we estimated overall RSV-associated hospitalizations and rates in the EU.

Results
Additional estimates for 2 countries (France and Spain) were found in the literature. In the EU, an average of 245 244 (95% confidence interval [CI], 224 688–265 799) yearly hospital admissions with a respiratory infection per year were associated with RSV in children aged under 5 years, with most cases occurring among children aged under 1 year (75%). Infants aged under 2 months represented the most affected group (71.6 per 1000 children; 95% CI, 66.6–76.6).

Conclusions
Our findings will help support decisions regarding prevention efforts and represent an important benchmark to understand changes in the RSV burden following the introduction of RSV immunization programs in Europe.
Estimation of the Number of Respiratory Syncytial Virus–Associated Hospitalizations in Adults in the European Union
Authors: Osei-Yeboah Richard , Spreeuwenberg Peter , Del Riccio Marco , Fischer Thea K , Egeskov-Cavling Amanda Marie , Bøås Håkon , van Boven Michiel , Wang Xin , Lehtonen Toni , Bangert Mathieu , Campbell Harry , Paget John ,   for the Respiratory Syncytial Virus Consortium in Europe (RESCEU) Investigators, Nair Harish , Campbell Harry , Beutels Philippe , Bont Louis , Pollard Andrew , Openshaw Peter , Martinon-Torres Federico , Heikkinen Terho , Meijer Adam , Fischer Thea K , van den Berge Maarten , Giaquinto Carlo , Abram Michael , Swanson Kena , Rizkalla Bishoy , Vernhes Charlotte , Gallichan Scott , Aerssens Jeroen , Kumar Veena , Molero Eva 
Published: May 2023

Abstract

Background
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a major cause of lower respiratory tract infections in adults that can result in hospitalizations. Estimating RSV-associated hospitalization is critical for planning RSV-related healthcare across Europe.

Methods
We gathered RSV-associated hospitalization estimates from the RSV Consortium in Europe (RESCEU) for adults in Denmark, England, Finland, Norway, Netherlands, and Scotland from 2006 to 2017. We extrapolated these estimates to 28 European Union (EU) countries using nearest-neighbor matching, multiple imputations, and 2 sets of 10 indicators.

Results
On average, 158 229 (95% confidence interval [CI], 140 865–175 592) RSV-associated hospitalizations occur annually among adults in the EU (≥18 years); 92% of these hospitalizations occur in adults ≥65 years. Among 75–84 years, the annual average is estimated at 74 519 (95% CI, 69 923–79 115) at a rate of 2.24 (95% CI, 2.10–2.38) per 1000. Among ≥85 years, the annual average is estimated at 37 904 (95% CI, 32 444–43 363) at a rate of 2.99 (95% CI, 2.56–3.42).

Conclusions
Our estimates of RSV-associated hospitalizations in adults are the first analysis integrating available data to provide the disease burden across the EU. Importantly, for a condition considered in the past to be primarily a disease of young children, the average annual hospitalization estimate in adults was lower but of a similar magnitude to the estimate in young children (0–4 years): 158 229 (95% CI, 140 865–175 592) versus 245 244 (95% CI, 224 688–265 799).
A relict subterranean spider (Araneae: Linyphiidae: Troglohyphantes) reveals a unique component of the biogeography of Corsica
Authors: Isaia Marco , Mammola Stefano , Arnedo Miquel A 
Published: May 2023

Abstract
Spiders of the genus Troglohyphantes (Araneae: Linyphiidae) exemplify one of the largest subterranean adaptive radiation across European mountain ranges, counting over 130 species and representing about one fifth of total species richness of cave spiders in Europe. Despite the emerging potential of Troglohyphantes as a biogeographical model, no attempt has been made to reconstruct the geological events underlying the current distribution patterns of the genus. By coupling traditional taxonomy with target gene sequence data and comparative functional trait analyses, we describe a new species of Troglohyphantes, the first reported from the island of Corsica (France). The species is characterized by a high level of subterranean adaptation and distinct morphological affinities with geographically distant congenerics. By means of time-stamped phylogenies, we tested contrasting hypotheses about the origin of the new species. The most parsimonious explanation suggests that the species diverged from an ancestral group of species originating in the Adriatic plate in the lower Miocene (~19 Ma), colonizing Corsica from the east. In the absence of relevant fossil records, the well-known geochronology of Corsica and the Western Mediterranean basin can be used in future studies to reconstruct the biogeography of the whole genus and for inferring the timeline of its diversification.
The Aesthetics of Creative Activism: Introduction
Authors: Holm Nicholas , Tilley Elspeth 
Published: May 2023

AbstractIn this introduction to The Journal of Aesthetics and Art Criticism special issue on the aesthetics of creative activism, we canvas influential scholarship of political aesthetics to sculpt a broad typology of six interconnected mechanisms by which art might intervene in the world. We label these: Documentation, Disruption, Recognition, Participation, Imagination, and Beauty. Each has a compelling tradition of theory and application, augmented, extended, and sometimes challenged by the thirteen fresh and provocative contributions in the special issue. Yet, we ask, if both politically minded artists and culturally minded activists are convinced of the power of art to provoke social change, and if we live a world that by almost all measures is now saturated with politically inclined, aesthetically informed practices, interfaces, objects, and texts, why does art not seem to be making a difference? Clearly, we need to think harder about the relationships between art and action, a task the articles assembled here call upon us to take seriously.
On Cracks, Lights and Environments
Authors: Paloniitty Tiina 
Published: May 2023

Abstract
Participatory rights have been the focus of global attention in recent years, as people have fought over access to courts in all things climate-related. Access to information has gained lesser attention, though it is a pivotal first step in holding the decision-makers accountable. In his volume, Sean Whittaker offers the reader a bird’s-eye view on how this aim is conceptualised, understood and executed in three different jurisdictions—England and Wales, the USA and China. Using legal transplant theory prospectively, he explores the potential of each solution to serve as a provider or receiver of transplants. Whittaker’s clear analysis delivers on the calls of contingent and ambitious comparative environmental law scholarship. In carefully examining the substantive and procedural cores of the access to environmental information right, Whittaker explores the details of the right and, by doing so, also presents a fine-tuned understanding of the global normativity of the Aarhus Convention.
Penicillin-resistant gonorrheal endocarditis presenting with large annular abscess and aortic valve destruction
Authors: Kashyap Abhishek K , Abu-Hussain Hamza , GnanaDev Raja , Seliem Ahmed , Salabat Reza 
Published: May 2023

Abstract
Disseminated gonorrheal infections with cardiac involvement are rare, with fewer than 100 cases reported. The increasing prevalence of gonococcal infections and increasing antibiotic resistance represent a concerning challenge to public health. Here we report a case of antibiotic-resistant gonococcal endocarditis presenting with cardiogenic shock and discuss principles of diagnosis and treatment.
Massive hemoptysis as a sole presentation of left atrial myxoma
Authors: Giacaman Narmeen , Marzouqa Nizar , Saeed Elias , Tos Salem M , Emar Ahmad , Nassr Mohammad , Amr Bajis , Marzouqa Bisher 
Published: May 2023

Abstract
Diagnosis of myxoma can be difficult given its variable presentation and while adopting common sense in diagnosing this condition, physicians should also be aware of atypical presentations. Herein we present a 47-year-old heavy smoker presented with massive blood-stained expectoration. He was later diagnosed with cardiac myxoma and managed accordingly.
Lipoma-like hibernoma: a rare soft tissue tumor—a case series and review of the literature
Authors: Gabra Abanoub , Sacasa Astrid , Baig Mirza , Kleinstein Eric 
Published: May 2023

Abstract
Hibernomas are rare and benign lipomatous tumors which consist of lobules of cells derived from brown fat. Less than 200 overall cases are reported in the literature which necessitates the need to report more cases for better understanding of this neoplasm. Hibernomas are slowly progressing, painless tumors most frequently located in the subcutaneous thigh, upper trunk, and neck. Hibernomas generally occur in areas close to the axial skeleton where brown fat used to exist in the fetus and persisted during adulthood. They are rare to be discovered for the first time in older adults, most commonly presenting in adults 20–40 years of age. Core biopsies are simple to perform under local anesthetic and provide pathological differentiation prior to planned excision, hence are recommended, especially with larger lesions. Based on case presentation, watchful waiting for non-growing asymptomatic cases of hibernoma is possible, but more frequent follow-up and/or a core biopsy would be advised to rule out a more aggressive diagnosis. Compared with lipoma-like hibernomas, atypical lipomatous tumor/well-differentiated liposarcoma recurs and might dedifferentiate to a dedifferentiated liposarcoma with the ability to metastasize in up to 5% of the recurrences. Hibernomas, including the lipoma-like variant, are typically treated by surgical excision, rarely recur and do not metastasize. We report two rare presentations of hibernoma and lipoma-like hibernoma. Awareness of this clinicopathological entity is crucial to avoid misdiagnosis as malignant lipomatous neoplasm.
The transcription factor BnaWRKY10 regulates cytokinin dehydrogenase BnaCKX2 to control cytokinin distribution and seed size in Brassica napus
Authors: Yan Guanbo , Li Sijia , Ma Mengya , Quan Chengtao , Tian Xia , Tu Jinxing , Shen Jinxiong , Yi Bin , Fu Tingdong , Ma Chaozhi , Guo Liang , Dai Cheng 
Published: May 2023

Abstract
Cytokinins (CKs) are phytohormones that promote cell division and differentiation. However, the regulation of CK distribution and homeostasis in Brassica napus is poorly understood. Here, the endogenous CKs were first quantified by LC-ESI-MS/MS in rapeseed tissues and visualized by TCSn::GUS reporter lines. Interestingly, the cytokinin oxidase/dehydrogenase BnaCKX2 homologs were mainly expressed in reproductive organs. Subsequently, the quadruple mutants of the four BnaCKX2 homologs were generated. Endogenous CKs were increased in the seeds of the BnaCKX2 quadruple mutants, resulting in a significantly reduced seed size. In contrast, overexpression of BnaA9.CKX2 resulted in larger seeds, probably by delaying endosperm cellularization. Furthermore, the transcription factor BnaC6.WRKY10b, but not BnaC6.WRKY10a, positively regulated BnaA9.CKX2 expression by binding directly to its promoter region. Overexpression of BnaC6.WRKY10b rather than BnaC6.WRKY10a resulted in lower concentration of CKs and larger seeds by activating BnaA9.CKX2 expression, indicating that the functional differentiation of BnaWRKY10 homologs might have occurred during B. napus evolution or domestication. Notably, the haploid types of BnaA9.CKX2 were associated with 1000-seed weight in the natural B. napus population. Overall, the study reveals the distribution of CKs in B. napus tissues, and shows that BnaWRKY10-mediated BnaCKX2 expression is essential for seed size regulation, providing promising targets for oil crop improvement.
PhD-SNPg: updating a webserver and lightweight tool for scoring nucleotide variants
Authors: Capriotti Emidio , Fariselli Piero 
Published: May 2023

Abstract
One of the primary challenges in human genetics is determining the functional impact of single nucleotide variants (SNVs) and insertion and deletions (InDels), whether coding or noncoding. In the past, methods have been created to detect disease-related single amino acid changes, but only some can assess the influence of noncoding variations. CADD is the most commonly used and advanced algorithm for predicting the diverse effects of genome variations. It employs a combination of sequence conservation and functional features derived from the ENCODE project data. To use CADD, a large set of pre-calculated information must be downloaded during the installation process. To streamline the variant annotation process, we developed PhD-SNPg, a machine-learning tool that is easy to install and lightweight, relying solely on sequence-based features. Here we present an updated version, trained on a larger dataset, that can also predict the impact of the InDel variations. Despite its simplicity, PhD-SNPg performs similarly to CADD, making it ideal for rapid genome interpretation and as a benchmark for tool development.
Reducing the inherent auto-inhibitory interaction within the pegRNA enhances prime editing efficiency
Authors: Ponnienselvan Karthikeyan , Liu Pengpeng , Nyalile Thomas , Oikemus Sarah , Maitland Stacy A , Lawson Nathan D , Luban Jeremy , Wolfe Scot A 
Published: May 2023

Abstract
Prime editing systems have enabled the incorporation of precise edits within a genome without introducing double strand breaks. Previous studies defined an optimal primer binding site (PBS) length for the pegRNA of ∼13 nucleotides depending on the sequence composition. However, optimal PBS length characterization has been based on prime editing outcomes using plasmid or lentiviral expression systems. In this study, we demonstrate that for prime editor (PE) ribonucleoprotein complexes, the auto-inhibitory interaction between the PBS and the spacer sequence affects pegRNA binding efficiency and target recognition. Destabilizing this auto-inhibitory interaction by reducing the complementarity between the PBS-spacer region enhances prime editing efficiency in multiple prime editing formats. In the case of end-protected pegRNAs, a shorter PBS length with a PBS-target strand melting temperature near 37°C is optimal in mammalian cells. Additionally, a transient cold shock treatment of the cells post PE-pegRNA delivery further increases prime editing outcomes for pegRNAs with optimized PBS lengths. Finally, we show that prime editor ribonucleoprotein complexes programmed with pegRNAs designed using these refined parameters efficiently correct disease-related genetic mutations in patient-derived fibroblasts and efficiently install precise edits in primary human T cells and zebrafish.
DUF2285 is a novel helix-turn-helix domain variant that orchestrates both activation and antiactivation of conjugative element transfer in proteobacteria
Authors: Jowsey William J , Morris Calum R P , Hall Drew A , Sullivan John T , Fagerlund Robert D , Eto Karina Y , Solomon Paul D , Mackay Joel P , Bond Charles S , Ramsay Joshua P , Ronson Clive W 
Published: May 2023

Abstract
Horizontal gene transfer is tightly regulated in bacteria. Often only a fraction of cells become donors even when regulation of horizontal transfer is coordinated at the cell population level by quorum sensing. Here, we reveal the widespread ‘domain of unknown function’ DUF2285 represents an ‘extended-turn’ variant of the helix-turn-helix domain that participates in both transcriptional activation and antiactivation to initiate or inhibit horizontal gene transfer. Transfer of the integrative and conjugative element ICEMlSymR7A is controlled by the DUF2285-containing transcriptional activator FseA. One side of the DUF2285 domain of FseA has a positively charged surface which is required for DNA binding, while the opposite side makes critical interdomain contacts with the N-terminal FseA DUF6499 domain. The QseM protein is an antiactivator of FseA and is composed of a DUF2285 domain with a negative surface charge. While QseM lacks the DUF6499 domain, it can bind the FseA DUF6499 domain and prevent transcriptional activation by FseA. DUF2285-domain proteins are encoded on mobile elements throughout the proteobacteria, suggesting regulation of gene transfer by DUF2285 domains is a widespread phenomenon. These findings provide a striking example of how antagonistic domain paralogues have evolved to provide robust molecular control over the initiation of horizontal gene transfer.