bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nano‐phototherapy: Favorable prospects for cancer treatment
Authors: Merlin J. P. Jose , Crous Anine , Abrahamse Heidi
Published: September 2023

Nanotechnology‐based phototherapies have drawn interest in the fight against cancer because of its noninvasiveness, high flexibility, and precision in terms of cancer targeting and drug delivery based on its surface properties and size. Phototherapy has made remarkable development in recent decades. Approaches to phototherapy, which utilize nanomaterials or nanotechnology have emerged to contribute to advances around nanotechnologies in medicine, particularly for cancers. A brief overviews of the development of photodynamic therapy as well as its mechanism in cancer treatment is provided. We emphasize the design of novel nanoparticles utilized in photodynamic therapy while summarizing the representative progress during the recent years. Finally, to forecast important future research in this area, we examine the viability and promise of photodynamic therapy systems based on nanoparticles in clinical anticancer treatment applications and briefly make mention of the elimination of all reactive metabolites pertaining to nano formulations inside living organisms providing insight into clinical mechanistic processes. Future developments and therapeutic prospects for photodynamic treatments are anticipated. Our viewpoints might encourage scientists to create more potent phototherapy‐based cancer therapeutic modalities.

This article is categorized under:

Therapeutic Approaches and Drug Discovery > Nanomedicine for Oncologic Disease
Modular Control and Services to Operate Lineless Mobile Assembly Systems
Authors: Kluge-Wilkes Aline , Baier Ralph , Kunze Ike , Müller Aleksandra , Shahidi Amir , Wolfschläger Dominik , Brecher Christian , Corves Burkhard , Hüsing Mathias , Nitsch Verena , Schmitt Robert H. , Wehrle Klaus
Published: September 2023

The increasing product variability and lack of skilled workers demand for autonomous, flexible production. Since assembly is considered a main cost driver and accounts for a major part of production time, research focuses on new technologies in assembly. The paradigm of Line-less Mobile Assembly Systems (LMAS) provides a solution for the future of assembly by mobilizing all resources. Thus, dynamic product routes through spatiotemporally configured assembly stations on a shop floor free of fixed obstacles are enabled. In this chapter, we present research focal points on different levels of LMAS, starting with the macroscopic level of formation planning, followed by the mesoscopic level of mobile robot control and multipurpose input devices and the microscopic level of services, such as interpreting autonomous decisions and in-network computing. We provide cross-level data and knowledge transfer through a novel ontology-based knowledge management. Overall, our work contributes to future safe and predictable human-robot collaboration in dynamic LMAS stations based on accurate online formation and motion planning of mobile robots, novel human-machine interfaces and networking technologies, as well as trustworthy AI-based decisions.
Evolving the Digital Industrial Infrastructure for Production: Steps Taken and the Road Ahead
Authors: Pennekamp Jan , Belova Anastasiia , Bergs Thomas , Bodenbenner Matthias , Bührig-Polaczek Andreas , Dahlmanns Markus , Kunze Ike , Kröger Moritz , Geisler Sandra , Henze Martin , Lütticke Daniel , Montavon Benjamin , Niemietz Philipp , Ortjohann Lucia , Rudack Maximilian , Schmitt Robert H. , Vroomen Uwe , Wehrle Klaus , Zeng Michael
Published: September 2023

The Internet of Production (IoP) leverages concepts such as digital shadows, data lakes, and a World Wide Lab (WWL) to advance today’s production. Consequently, it requires a technical infrastructure that can support the agile deployment of these concepts and corresponding high-level applications, which, e.g., demand the processing of massive data in motion and at rest. As such, key research aspects are the support for low-latency control loops, concepts on scalable data stream processing, deployable information security, and semantically rich and efficient long-term storage. In particular, such an infrastructure cannot continue to be limited to machines and sensors, but additionally needs to encompass networked environments: production cells, edge computing, and location-independent cloud infrastructures. Finally, in light of the envisioned WWL, i.e., the interconnection of production sites, the technical infrastructure must be advanced to support secure and privacy-preserving industrial collaboration. To evolve today’s production sites and lay the infrastructural foundation for the IoP, we identify five broad streams of research: (1) adapting data and stream processing to heterogeneous data from distributed sources, (2) ensuring data interoperability between systems and production sites, (3) exchanging and sharing data with different stakeholders, (4) network security approaches addressing the risks of increasing interconnectivity, and (5) security architectures to enable secure and privacy-preserving industrial collaboration. With our research, we evolve the underlying infrastructure from isolated, sparsely networked production sites toward an architecture that supports high-level applications and sophisticated digital shadows while facilitating the transition toward a WWL.
Actionable Artificial Intelligence for the Future of Production
Authors: Behery Mohamed , Brauner Philipp , Zhou Hans Aoyang , Uysal Merih Seran , Samsonov Vladimir , Bellgardt Martin , Brillowski Florian , Brockhoff Tobias , Ghahfarokhi Anahita Farhang , Gleim Lars , Gorissen Leon Michel , Grochowski Marco , Henn Thomas , Iacomini Elisa , Kaster Thomas , Koren István , Liebenberg Martin , Reinsch Leon , Tirpitz Liam , Trinh Minh , Posada-Moreno Andres Felipe , Liehner Luca , Schemmer Thomas , Vervier Luisa , Völker Marcus , Walderich Philipp , Zhang Song , Brecher Christian , Schmitt Robert H. , Decker Stefan , Gries Thomas , Häfner Constantin Leon , Herty Michael , Jarke Matthias , Kowalewski Stefan , Kuhlen Torsten W. , Schleifenbaum Johannes Henrich , Trimpe Sebastian , Aalst Wil M. P. van der , Ziefle Martina , Lakemeyer Gerhard
Published: September 2023

The Internet of Production (IoP) promises to be the answer to major challenges facing the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) and Industry 4.0. The lack of inter-company communication channels and standards, the need for heightened safety in Human Robot Collaboration (HRC) scenarios, and the opacity of data-driven decision support systems are only a few of the challenges we tackle in this chapter. We outline the communication and data exchange within the World Wide Lab (WWL) and autonomous agents that query the WWL which is built on the Digital Shadows (DS). We categorize our approaches into machine level, process level, and overarching principles. This chapter surveys the interdisciplinary work done in each category, presents different applications of the different approaches, and offers actionable items and guidelines for future work.The machine level handles the robots and machines used for production and their interactions with the human workers. It covers low-level robot control and optimization through gray-box models, task-specific motion planning, and optimization through reinforcement learning. In this level, we also examine quality assurance through nonintrusive real-time quality monitoring, defect recognition, and quality prediction. Work on this level also handles confidence, verification, and validation of re-configurable processes and reactive, modular, transparent process models. The process level handles the product life cycle, interoperability, and analysis and optimization of production processes, which is overall attained by analyzing process data and event logs to detect and eliminate bottlenecks and learn new process models. Moreover, this level presents a communication channel between human workers and processes by extracting and formalizing human knowledge into ontology and providing a decision support by reasoning over this information. Overarching principles present a toolbox of omnipresent approaches for data collection, analysis, augmentation, and management, as well as the visualization and explanation of black-box models.
Model-Based Controlling Approaches for Manufacturing Processes
Authors: Rüppel Adrian Karl , Ay Muzaffer , Biernat Benedikt , Kunze Ike , Landwehr Markus , Mann Samuel , Pennekamp Jan , Rabe Pascal , Sanders Mark P. , Scheurenberg Dominik , Schiller Sven , Xi Tiandong , Abel Dirk , Bergs Thomas , Brecher Christian , Reisgen Uwe , Schmitt Robert H. , Wehrle Klaus
Published: September 2023

The main objectives in production technology are quality assurance, cost reduction, and guaranteed process safety and stability. Digital shadows enable a more comprehensive understanding and monitoring of processes on shop floor level. Thus, process information becomes available between decision levels, and the aforementioned criteria regarding quality, cost, or safety can be included in control decisions for production processes. The contextual data for digital shadows typically arises from heterogeneous sources. At shop floor level, the proximity to the process requires usage of available data as well as domain knowledge. Data sources need to be selected, synchronized, and processed. Especially high-frequency data requires algorithms for intelligent distribution and efficient filtering of the main information using real-time devices and in-network computing. Real-time data is enriched by simulations, metadata from product planning, and information across the whole process chain. Well-established analytical and empirical models serve as the base for new hybrid, gray box approaches. These models are then applied to optimize production process control by maximizing the productivity under given quality and safety constraints. To store and reuse the developed models, ontologies are developed and a data lake infrastructure is utilized and constantly enlarged laying the basis for a World Wide Lab (WWL). Finally, closing the control loop requires efficient quality assessment, immediately after the process and directly on the machine. This chapter addresses works in a connected job shop to acquire data, identify and optimize models, and automate systems and their deployment in the Internet of Production (IoP).
Identification of lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA Networks in the Lenticular Nucleus Region of the Brain Contributes to Hepatolenticular Degeneration Pathogenesis and Therapy
Authors: Hao Wenjie , Yang Wenming , Yang Yue , Cheng Ting , Wei Taohua , Tang Lulu , Qian Nannan , Yang Yulong , Li Xiang , Jiang Hailin , Wang Meixia
Published: September 2023

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are a recently discovered group of non-coding RNAs that play a crucial role in the regulation of various human diseases, especially in the study of nervous system diseases which has garnered significant attention. However, there is limited knowledge on the identification and function of lncRNAs in hepatolenticular degeneration (HLD). The objective of this study was to identify novel lncRNAs and determine their involvement in the networks associated with HLD. We conducted a comprehensive analysis of RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) data, reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR), and computational biology to identify novel lncRNAs and explore their potential mechanisms in HLD. We identified 212 differently expressed lncRNAs, with 98 upregulated and 114 downregulated. Additionally, 32 differently expressed mRNAs were found, with 15 upregulated and 17 downregulated. We obtained a total of 1131 pairs of co-expressed lncRNAs and mRNAs by Pearson correlation test and prediction and annotation of the lncRNA-targeted miRNA-mRNA network. The differential lncRNAs identified in this study were found to be involved in various biological functions and signaling pathways. These include translational initiation, motor learning, locomotors behavior, dioxygenase activity, integral component of postsynaptic membrane, neuroactive ligand-receptor interaction, nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) signaling pathway, cholinergic synapse, sphingolipid signaling pathway, and Parkinson’s disease signaling pathway, as revealed by the Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analyses. Six lncRNAs, including XR_001782921.1 (P < 0.01), XR_ 001780581.1 (P < 0.01), ENSMUST_00000207119 (P < 0.01), XR_865512.2 (P < 0.01), TCONS_00005916 (P < 0.01), and TCONS_00020683 (P < 0.01), showed significant differences in expression levels between the model group and normal group by RT-qPCR. Among these, four lncRNAs (TCONS_00020683, XR_865512.2, XR_001780581.1, and ENSMUST00000207119) displayed a high degree of conservation. This study provides a unique perspective for the pathogenesis and therapy of HLD by constructing the lncRNA-miRNA-mRNA network. This insight provides a foundation for future exploration in this field.
Global Health Expertise in the Shadow of Hegemony
Authors: Kentikelenis Alexandros , Seabrooke Leonard , Sending Ole Jacob
Published: September 2023

What enables actors to shape norms in global health governance? Scholarship on global health has highlighted the role of experts and expertise in operationalizing norms across a variety of issues. The degree of expert consensus or dissensus and the negotiation processes between expert communities—for example, in international organizations, NGOs or academia—are commonly identified as centrally important for explaining these processes. In this article, we posit that norm-making in global health governance occurs in the shadow of hegemony; a system of status and stratification that is centered on economic and security concerns and maintained by countries at the core of the world system. These countries—notably the USA and other major economies in the Global North—project their hegemonic position in the world system across areas of global organizing, including in global health. We explore the relationship between epistemic consensus and hegemonic interests as parameters that shape the outcome of norm-making processes. To pursue this argument, we examine this relationship in the context of the development of policy norms to counter non-communicable diseases in developing countries and to pursue the securitization of global health.
Space weather-related activities and projects on-going at INAF-Turin Observatory
Authors: Bemporad Alessandro , Fineschi Silvano , Abbo Lucia , Benna Carlo , Biondo Ruggero , Capobianco Gerardo , Carella Francesco , Cora Alberto , Frassati Federica , Giordano Silvio , Haudemand Hervé , Landini Federico , Loreggia Davide , Mancuso Salvatore , Mignone Andrea , Nicolini Gianalfredo , Pancrazzi Maurizio , Salvati Francesco , Susino Roberto , Telloni Daniele , Zangrilli Luca
Published: September 2023

The Solar Physics Group at the INAF-Turin Astrophysical Observatory (OATo) is actually involved in different Space Weather (SW) projects and missions. In particular, this Group is currently providing for the ESA SWESNET portal two new data analysis tools aimed at (1) the automated identification of magnetic flux ropes from the in situ data (CME magnetic effectiveness tool) and (2) the automated identification and arrival prediction of CMEs from remote sensing and in situ data (CME propagation and forecast tool). The Group is also developing numerical tools for future applications of interest for SW under the project SWELTO-Space WEather Laboratory in Turin Observatory. Moreover, the Group is participating in two SW missions, and in particular in Helianthus (research and development project on solar photonic propulsion for early SW warnings) and Selene (Solar Exploration by Lunar Eclipsing with Nanosatellites Experiment). In addition to this, the Group is leading or is involved in other “SW enabling science” projects, and in particular the Metis coronagraph on-board ESA Solar Orbiter mission, the ASPIICS coronagraph on-board ESA PROBA-3 mission, and the CorMag coronagraph on-board HEMERA stratospheric balloon. In this framework, the OATo Solar Physics Group is working on fundamental research on “SW enabling science”, dealing with the origin and acceleration of solar wind and Coronal Mass Ejections with remote-sensing data, and their interplanetary propagation and evolution with in situ data.
Die Rückkehr der Ringe: Sequenzierung extrachromosomaler zirkulärer DNAs
Authors: Mann Ludwig , Heitkam Tony
Published: September 2023

Despite being known for decades, the interest in extrachromosomal circular DNAs (eccDNAs) with their distinctive ring-like structures has never been higher. With every day, we learn more about their role in biological processes, including aging and cancer, genome instability, and even, in plants, the development of herbicide resistances. But why is now the time to study eccDNAs? To follow up on this, we highlight recent approaches for enrichment, sequencing, and identification of eccDNAs.
Immungenetik beeinflusst Infektion und Verlauf von COVID-19
Authors: Lehmann Claudia , Doxiadis Ilias
Published: September 2023

In the present report, we concentrate on the influence of immunogenetics on the SARS-CoV-2 infection. A total of 527 SARS-CoV-2 PCR positive and negative individuals from Saxony was investigated. We used NGS for HLA-A, B, C, DRB1, DRB345, DQA1, DQB1, DPA1, and DPB1 typing. Then, we defined 26 genes and 5 platelet genes. Here we discuss possible predisposition of individuals expressing specific HLA alleles or combinations.
Does familiarity with the attraction matter? Antecedents of satisfaction with virtual reality for heritage tourism
Authors: Nam Kichan , Baker Jeff , Dutt Christopher S.
Published: September 2023

Virtual reality (VR) is a topic of growing interest. While many researchers have identified factors that influence satisfaction with VR, additional important factors remain uninvestigated. In our research model, system quality, presence, and authenticity influence two mediating variables of enjoyment and usefulness of information. Enjoyment (a hedonic aspect of the VR experience) and usefulness of information (a utilitarian aspect), in turn, influence satisfaction, with familiarity moderating both of these relationships. PLS analysis of survey data collected in a heritage tourism context finds relationships that have not been previously identified. While system quality and authenticity are associated with enjoyment and usefulness of information, presence is positively associated only with enjoyment. Familiarity negatively moderates the relationship between enjoyment and satisfaction with VR. This study thus extends prior research on a key metaverse technology, VR, by identifying and explicating the roles of authenticity and familiarity—and also extends prior research by focusing on the hedonic and utilitarian dimensions of the VR experience.
Inference on optimal treatment assignments
Authors: Armstrong Timothy B. , Shen Shu
Published: September 2023

We consider inference on optimal treatment assignments. Our methods allow inference on the treatment assignment rule that would be optimal given knowledge of the population treatment effect in a general setting. The procedure uses multiple hypothesis testing methods to determine a subset of the population for which assignment to treatment can be determined to be optimal after conditioning on all available information, with a prespecified level of confidence. A Monte Carlo study confirms that the inference procedure has good small sample behavior. We apply the method to study Project STAR and the optimal assignment of a small class intervention based on school and teacher characteristics.
The TKT Course CLIL Module
Authors: Bentley Kay
Published: September 2023

This course is designed for teachers and trainee teachers preparing for the Cambridge ESOL TKT: Content and Language Integrated Learning test (TKT: CLIL). It is ideal for both content and language teachers. Written by a CLIL expert in collaboration with Cambridge ESOL, this course covers the four key areas of the test: knowledge of CLIL and principles of CLIL, lesson preparation, lesson delivery and assessment. It will also be useful for anyone seeking an introduction to CLIL theory and practice.

The TKT Course CLIL Module introduces teachers to the concepts and terminology central to CLIL and provides an introduction to its main theories, approaches and activities. Teachers are then encouraged to apply these to their own teaching contexts and analyse their usefulness to their own learners. Materials and activities are available which further develop and explore the topics introduced in the course.
Comorbid Depressive and Anxiety Symptomatology in Older Adults: The Role of Aging Self-Stereotypes, Loneliness, and Feelings of Guilt Associated with Self-Perception as a Burden
Authors: Pedroso-Chaparro María del Sequeros , Cabrera Isabel , Márquez-González María , Ribeiro Óscar , Losada-Baltar Andrés
Published: September 2023

The main objective of this study was to analyze the differences between older adults’ symptom profiles (subclinical, anxiety, depressive, and comorbid) in negative aging self-stereotypes, loneliness, and feelings of guilt associated with self-perception as a burden. Participants were 310 community-dwelling people aged 60 years and over. The sample was grouped into four symptom profiles of older adults: anxiety, depressive, comorbid anxiety-depression, and subclinical symptoms. We carried out multinomial logistic regression analyses to analyze the role of assessed variables in the explanation of the four symptom profiles. Older adults who reported a comorbid symptomatology presented higher negative aging self-stereotypes and feelings of loneliness than the other three profiles. Compared with the subclinical profile, older adults who reported clinical symptomatology (anxiety, depressive, and comorbid profile) presented higher feelings of guilt associated with self-perception as a burden. The findings of this study suggest potential associations that may contribute to understanding and treating comorbid anxiety and depressive symptoms in older adults.
Oceans of Opportunity
Authors: Micalizio Caryl-Sue
Published: September 2023

Our solar system’s ocean worlds offer scientists intriguing instances of exotic phenomena and fresh prospects in the elusive search for planetary habitability.
Loss of Notch signaling in skeletal stem cells enhances bone formation with aging
Authors: Remark Lindsey H. , Leclerc Kevin , Ramsukh Malissa , Lin Ziyan , Lee Sooyeon , Dharmalingam Backialakshmi , Gillinov Lauren , Nayak Vasudev V. , El Parente Paulo , Sambon Margaux , Atria Pablo J. , Ali Mohamed A. E. , Witek Lukasz , Castillo Alesha B. , Park Christopher Y, , Adams Ralf H. , Tsirigos Aristotelis , Morgani Sophie M. , Leucht Philipp
Published: September 2023

Skeletal stem and progenitor cells (SSPCs) perform bone maintenance and repair. With age, they produce fewer osteoblasts and more adipocytes leading to a loss of skeletal integrity. The molecular mechanisms that underlie this detrimental transformation are largely unknown. Single-cell RNA sequencing revealed that Notch signaling becomes elevated in SSPCs during aging. To examine the role of increased Notch activity, we deleted Nicastrin, an essential Notch pathway component, in SSPCs in vivo. Middle-aged conditional knockout mice displayed elevated SSPC osteo-lineage gene expression, increased trabecular bone mass, reduced bone marrow adiposity, and enhanced bone repair. Thus, Notch regulates SSPC cell fate decisions, and moderating Notch signaling ameliorates the skeletal aging phenotype, increasing bone mass even beyond that of young mice. Finally, we identified the transcription factor Ebf3 as a downstream mediator of Notch signaling in SSPCs that is dysregulated with aging, highlighting it as a promising therapeutic target to rejuvenate the aged skeleton.
Potential of continuous cover forestry on drained peatlands to increase the carbon sink in Finland
Authors: Lehtonen Aleksi , Eyvindson Kyle , Härkönen Kari , Leppä Kersti , Salmivaara Aura , Peltoniemi Mikko , Salminen Olli , Sarkkola Sakari , Launiainen Samuli , Ojanen Paavo , Räty Minna , Mäkipää Raisa
Published: September 2023

Land-based mitigation measures are needed to achieve climate targets. One option is the mitigation of currently high greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions of nutrient-rich drained peatland forest soils. Continuous cover forestry (CCF) has been proposed as a measure to manage this GHG emission source; however, its emission reduction potential and impact on timber production at regional and national scales have not been quantified. To quantify the potential emission reduction, we simulated four management scenarios for Finnish forests: (i) The replacement of clear-cutting by selection harvesting on nutrient-rich drained peatlands (CCF) and (ii) the current forest management regime (BAU), and both at two harvest levels, namely (i) the mean annual harvesting (2016–2018) and (ii) the maximum sustainable yield. The simulations were conducted at the stand scale with a forest simulator (MELA) coupled with a hydrological model (SpaFHy), soil C model (Yasso07) and empirical GHG exchange models. Simulations showed that the management scenario that avoided clear-cutting on nutrient-rich drained peatlands (i.e. CCF) produced approximately 1 Tg CO2 eq. higher carbon sinks annually compared with BAU at equal harvest level for Finland. This emission reduction can be attributed to the maintenance of a higher biomass sink and to the mitigation of soil emissions from nutrient-rich drained peatland sites.
Head movement kinematics are differentially altered for extended versus short duration gait exercises in individuals with vestibular loss
Authors: Millar Jennifer L. , Zobeiri Omid A. , Souza Wagner H. , Schubert Michael C. , Cullen Kathleen E.
Published: September 2023

Head kinematics are altered in individuals with vestibular schwannoma (VS) during short duration gait tasks [i.e., Functional Gait Assessment (FGA)], both before and after surgery, yet whether these differences extend to longer duration gait exercises is currently unknown. Here we examined the effects of vestibular loss and subsequent compensation on head kinematics in individuals with VS during gait exercises of relatively extended versus short duration (< 10 versus 30 s), compared to age-matched controls. Six-dimensional head movements were recorded during extended and short duration gait exercises before and then 6 weeks after sectioning of the involved vestibular nerve (vestibular neurectomy). Standard functional, physiological, and subjective clinical assessments were also performed at each time point. Kinematics were differentially altered in individuals with vestibular loss at both time points during extended versus short duration exercises. Range of motion was significantly reduced in extended tasks. In contrast, movement variability predominately differed for the short duration exercises. Overall, our results indicate that quantifying head kinematics during longer duration gait tasks can provide novel information about how VS individuals compensate for vestibular loss, and suggest that measurements of range of motion versus variability can provide information regarding the different strategies deployed to maintain functional locomotion.
In-air and in-water performance comparison of Passive Gamma Emission Tomography with activated Co-60 rods
Authors: Virta Riina , Bubba Tatiana A. , Moring Mikael , Siltanen Samuli , Honkamaa Tapani , Dendooven Peter
Published: September 2023

A first-of-a-kind geological repository for spent nuclear fuel is being built in Finland and will soon start operations. To make sure all nuclear material stays in peaceful use, the fuel is measured with two complementary non-destructive methods to verify the integrity and the fissile content of the fuel prior to disposal. For pin-wise identification of active fuel material, a Passive Gamma Emission Tomography (PGET) device is used. Gamma radiation emitted by the fuel is assayed from 360 angles around the assembly with highly collimated CdZnTe detectors, and a 2D cross-sectional image is reconstructed from the data. At the encapsulation plant in Finland, there will be the possibility to measure in air. Since the performance of the method has only been studied in water, measurements with mock-up fuel were conducted at the Atominstitut in Vienna, Austria. Four different arrangements of activated Co-60 rods, steel rods and empty positions were investigated both in air and in water to confirm the functionality of the method. The measurement medium was not observed to affect the ability of the method to distinguish modified rod positions from filled rod positions. More extended conclusions about the method performance with real spent nuclear fuel cannot be drawn from the mock-up studies, since the gamma energies, activities, material attenuations and assembly dimensions are different, but full-scale measurements with spent nuclear fuel are planned for 2023.
Northward shift of the Kuroshio Extension during 1993–2021
Authors: Kawakami Yuma , Nakano Hideyuki , Urakawa L. Shogo , Toyoda Takahiro , Aoki Kunihiro , Usui Norihisa
Published: September 2023

The Kuroshio Extension (KE) flows eastward at the northern boundary of the North Pacific subtropical gyre. By transporting large amounts of seawater with heat, the KE contributes significantly to the formation of sea surface temperature (SST) fields. Recently, poleward shifts of major ocean gyres in the world ocean, including the North Pacific subtropical gyre, have been highlighted based on basin-scale changes in SST and sea surface height (SSH) distributions. However, a detailed investigation of the long-term meridional KE movement has not been presented. Investigation of KE path changes helps provide insights into long-term changes in the physical fields in the western North Pacific. In this study, we identified the KE path from satellite-derived SSH and surface current velocity data using a front identification method and showed that the KE migrated northward by approximately 210 km during 1993–2021. We further explored the cause of the northward KE shift based on atmospheric reanalysis data and numerical experiments using a high-resolution ocean general circulation model. It was revealed that the northward KE shift is mostly caused by the trend of wind stress curl in the North Pacific during 1993–2021.
Simulation-based assessment of the performance of hierarchical abundance estimators for camera trap surveys of unmarked species
Authors: Martijn Bollen , Jim Casaer , Natalie Beenaerts , Thomas Neyens
Published: September 2023

Knowledge on animal abundances is essential in ecology, but is complicated by low detectability of many species. This has led to a widespread use of hierarchical models (HMs) for species abundance, which are also commonly applied in the context of nature areas studied by camera traps (CTs). However, the best choice among these models is unclear, particularly based on how they perform in the face of complicating features of realistic populations, including: movements relative to sites, multiple detections of unmarked individuals within a single survey, and low detectability. We conducted a simulation-based comparison of three HMs (Royle-Nichols, binomial N-mixture and Poisson N-mixture model) by generating groups of unmarked individuals moving according to a bivariate Ornstein–Uhlenbeck process, monitored by CTs. Under a range of simulated scenarios, none of the HMs consistently yielded accurate abundances. Yet, the Poisson N-mixture model performed well when animals did move across sites, despite accidental double counting of individuals. Absolute abundances were better captured by Royle-Nichols and Poisson N-mixture models, while a binomial N-mixture model better estimated the actual number of individuals that used a site. The best performance of all HMs was observed when estimating relative trends in abundance, which were captured with similar accuracy across these models.
Optimizing tick artificial membrane feeding for Ixodes scapularis
Authors: Garcia Guizzo Melina , Meneses Claudio , Amado Cecilio Pedro , Hessab Alvarenga Patricia , Sonenshine Daniel , Ribeiro Jose M.
Published: September 2023

Artificial membrane feeding (AMF) is a powerful and versatile technique with a wide range of applications in the study of disease vectors species. Since its first description, AMF has been under constant optimization and standardization for different tick species and life stages. In the USA, Ixodes scapularis is the main vector of tick-borne zoonoses including the pathogens causing Lyme disease in humans and animals. Seeking to improve the overall fitness of I. scapularis adult females fed artificially, here, we have optimized the AMF technique, considerably enhancing attachment rate, engorgement success, egg laying, and egg hatching compared to those described in previous studies. Parameters such as the membrane thickness and the light/dark cycle to which the ticks were exposed were refined to more closely reflect the tick’s natural behavior and life cycle. Additionally, ticks were fed on blood only, blood + ATP or blood + ATP + gentamicin. The artificial feeding of ticks on blood only was successful and generated a progeny capable of feeding naturally on a host, i.e., mice. Adding ATP as a feeding stimulant did not improve tick attachment or engorgement. Notably, the administration of gentamicin, an antibiotic commonly used in tick AMF to prevent microbial contamination, negatively impacted Rickettsia buchneri endosymbiont levels in the progeny of artificially fed ticks. In addition, gentamicin-fed ticks showed a reduction in oviposition success compared to ticks artificially fed on blood only, discouraging the use of antibiotics in AMF. Overall, our data suggest that the AMF of adult females on blood only, in association with the natural feeding of their progeny on mice, might be used as an integrated approach in tick rearing, eliminating the use of protected species under the Animal Welfare Act (AWA). Of note, although optimized for I. scapularis adult ticks, I. scapularis nymphs, other tick species, and sand flies could also be fed using the membrane described in this study, indicating that it might be a suitable alternative for the artificial feeding of a variety of hematophagous species.
Efficacy of anti-tuberculosis drugs for the treatment of latent tuberculosis infection: a systematic review and network meta-analysis
Authors: Yoopetch Panida , Anothaisintawee Thunyarat , Gunasekara Agampodi Danushi M. , Jittikoon Jiraphun , Udomsinprasert Wanvisa , Thavorncharoensap Montarat , Youngkong Sitaporn , Thakkinstian Ammarin , Chaikledkaew Usa
Published: September 2023

Despite the availability of three network meta-analyses (NMA) examining the efficacy, treatment completion, and adverse events associated with all latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) treatments, there is currently no evidence to support the notion that the benefits of these treatments outweigh the potential risks. This NMA aimed to conduct a comprehensive comparison and update of the efficacy, treatment completion rates and adverse events associated with recommended treatment options for LTBI for individuals with confirmed LTBI, as outlined in the 2020 World Health Organization (WHO) Consolidated Guidelines for TB preventive treatment. A comprehensive search of the MEDLINE and Scopus databases was conducted until April 2023. The NMA was applied to estimate the risk difference and corresponding 95% confidence interval (CI) using a combination of direct and indirect evidence. The risk–benefit assessment was employed to evaluate the feasibility of the extra benefits in relation to the extra risks. The primary outcomes of interest in this study were active TB disease, completion rates, and adverse events. The meta-analysis incorporated data from 15 studies, which collectively demonstrated that the administration of a placebo resulted in a significant increase in the risk of developing TB disease by 1.279%, compared to the daily intake of isoniazid for 6 months (6H). Furthermore, treatment completion rates were significantly higher when using isoniazid plus rifapentine weekly for 3 months (3HP) and rifampicin daily for 4 months (4R), as compared to 6H. Considering adverse events, the combination of 3HP, 4R, and isoniazid administered daily for 9 months (referred to as 9H) significantly decreased adverse events by 4.53% in comparison to 6H. The risk–benefit assessment showed that alternative treatment regimens (9H, 4R, 3HR and 3HP) had a lower incidence of adverse events, while demonstrating a higher efficacy in preventing TB, as compared to 6H. This review indicates that there were no significant differences observed among various active treatment options in terms of their efficacy in preventing active TB. Moreover, completion rates were higher in 3HP and 4R, and a reduction in adverse events was observed in 3HP, 4R, and 9H.
Robust within-session modulations of IAT scores may reveal novel dynamics of rapid change
Authors: Cochrane Aaron , Cox William T. L. , Green C. Shawn
Published: September 2023

The Implicit Association Test (IAT) is employed in the domain of social psychology as a measure of implicit evaluation. Participants in this task complete blocks of trials where they are asked to respond to categories and attributes (e.g., types of faces and types of words). Reaction times in different blocks sharing certain response combinations are averaged and then subtracted from blocks with other response combinations and then normalized, the result of which is taken as a measure indicating implicit evaluation toward or away from the given categories. One assumption of this approach is stationarity of response time distributions, or at a minimum, that temporal dynamics in response times are not theoretically relevant. Here we test these assumptions, examine the extent to which response times change within the IAT blocks and, if so, how trajectories of change are meaningful in relation to external measures. Using multiple data sets we demonstrate within-session changes in IAT scores. Further, we demonstrate that dissociable components in the trajectories of IAT performance may be linked to theoretically distinct processes of cognitive biases as well as behaviors. The present work presents evidence that IAT performance changes within the task, while future work is needed to fully assess the implications of these temporal dynamics.
Copernicus for urban resilience in Europe
Authors: Chrysoulakis Nektarios , Ludlow David , Mitraka Zina , Somarakis Giorgos , Khan Zaheer , Lauwaet Dirk , Hooyberghs Hans , Feliu Efrén , Navarro Daniel , Feigenwinter Christian , Holsten Anne , Soukup Tomas , Dohr Mario , Marconcini Mattia , Holt Andersen Birgitte
Published: September 2023

The urban community faces a significant obstacle in effectively utilising Earth Observation (EO) intelligence, particularly the Copernicus EO program of the European Union, to address the multifaceted aspects of urban sustainability and bolster urban resilience in the face of climate change challenges. In this context, here we present the efforts of the CURE project, which received funding under the European Union’s Horizon 2020 Research and Innovation Framework Programme, to leverage the Copernicus Core Services (CCS) in supporting urban resilience. CURE provides spatially disaggregated environmental intelligence at a local scale, demonstrating that CCS can facilitate urban planning and management strategies to improve the resilience of cities. With a strong emphasis on stakeholder engagement, CURE has identified eleven cross-cutting applications between CCS that correspond to the major dimensions of urban sustainability and align with user needs. These applications have been integrated into a cloud-based platform known as DIAS (Data and Information Access Services), which is capable of delivering reliable, usable and relevant intelligence to support the development of downstream services towards enhancing resilience planning of cities throughout Europe.
Public health factors help explain cross country heterogeneity in excess death during the COVID19 pandemic
Authors: Sun Min Woo , Troxell David , Tibshirani Robert
Published: September 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic has taken a devastating toll around the world. Since January 2020, the World Health Organization estimates 14.9 million excess deaths have occurred globally. Despite this grim number quantifying the deadly impact, the underlying factors contributing to COVID-19 deaths at the population level remain unclear. Prior studies indicate that demographic factors like proportion of population older than 65 and population health explain the cross-country difference in COVID-19 deaths. However, there has not been a comprehensive analysis including variables describing government policies and COVID-19 vaccination rate. Furthermore, prior studies focus on COVID-19 death rather than excess death to assess the impact of the pandemic. Through a robust statistical modeling framework, we analyze 80 countries and show that actionable public health efforts beyond just the factors intrinsic to each country are important for explaining the cross-country heterogeneity in excess death.
Preparation of high-performance supercapacitor electrode with nanocomposite of CuO/NCNO flower-like
Authors: Sohouli Esmail , Teymourinia Hakimeh , Ramazani Ali , Adib Koroush
Published: September 2023

Due to the importance of energy storage systems based on supercapacitors, various studies have been conducted. In this research CuO, NCNO and the flower like CuO/NCNO have been studied as a novel materials in this field. The resulte showed that the synthesized CuO nanostructutes have flower like morphology which studied by FE-SEM analisis. Further, the XRD pattern confirmed the crystalline properties of the CuO/NCNO nanocomposite, and the Raman verified the functional groups and vibrations of the components of CuO/NCNO nanocomposite. In a two-electrode system at a current density of 4 A/g, the capacitance, power density, and energy density were 450 F/g, 3200 W/kg, and 98 Wh/kg, respectively. The charge transfer resistances of CuO and NCNO/CuO electrodes obtained 8 and 2 Ω respectively, which show that the conductivity and supercapacitive properties of nanocomposite are better than pure components. Also, the stability and low charge transfer resistance are other advantages obtained in a two-symmetrical electrode investigation. The stability investigation showed that after 3000 consecutive cycles, only 4% of the initial capacitance of the CuO/NCNO electrode decreased.
Grouting anchor cable active advanced support technology for mining roadways
Authors: Yang Qinghe , Li Gang , Li Weifeng , Cai Tian , Liu Hang , Zhao Yiming , Zhang Yabing
Published: September 2023

Because of the deficiencies in safety and economy of the single hydraulic prop passive advanced support, the grouting anchor cable active advanced support technology is proposed with the Changping Coal Mine 53,081 roadway as the engineering background. By using a combination of theoretical analysis, laboratory tests, numerical simulation, and field tests, the influence of different grouting parameters on the diffusion law of grout is studied. Considering the effect of the stress field on grout migration, a grout seepage-stress coupling model is established. Grouting material ratio tests are carried out and grout parameters are tested. The grouting part of the advanced grouting anchor cable is modeled and solved using the COMSOL Multiphysics numerical software. The results show that the grouting material selected is Portland cement 42.5 and water glass double liquid grout, with a slurry ratio of 15% ACZ-1 type additive and 4% water glass content, and a water–cement ratio of 0.6. The grouting pressure for the 53,081 roadway grouting anchor cable advanced support is 5 MPa, the grouting time is 6 min, and the grouting anchor cable spacing is 2000 mm × 1000 mm. The engineering application shows that the maximum roof subsidence is 180 mm, the maximum separation value at a depth of 9 m is 24 mm, and the maximum separation value at a depth of 3 m is 90 mm. The research results have achieved effective advanced support for the 53,081 roadway, replacing the single hydraulic prop, and provided a theoretical basis for the subsequent design of advanced support parameters for mining roadways.
Adiponectin receptor 1 could explain the sex differences in molecular basis of cognitive improvements induced by exercise training in type 2 diabetic rats
Authors: Rajizadeh Mohammad Amin , Moslemizadeh Amirhossein , Hosseini Mahdieh Sadat , Rafiei Forouzan , Soltani Zahra , Khoramipour Kayvan
Published: September 2023

Adipokines dysregulation, the main reason for cognitive impairments (CI) induced by diabetes, shows a sex-dependent pattern inherently and in response to exercise. This study aimed to compare the attenuating effect of 8-week high intensity-interval training (HIIT) on type 2 diabetes (T2D)-induced CI between male and female rats with a special focus on adiponectin and leptin. 28 male & 28 female Wistar rats with an average age of 8 weeks were randomly assigned into four groups: control (Con), exercise (EX), Diabetes (T2D), and Type 2 diabetes + exercise (T2D + Ex). Rats in EX and T2D + EX groups performed HIIT for eight weeks (80–100% Vmax, 4–10 intervals). T2D was induced by 2 months of a high-fat diet and a single dose of STZ (35 mg/kg) administration. Leptin and adiponectin levels in serum were measured along with hippocampal expression of leptin and adiponectin receptors, AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), dephosphorylated glycogen synthase kinase-3 beta (Dep-GSK3β), Tau, and beta-amyloid (Aβ). Homeostasis model assessments (HOMAs) and quantitative insulin-sensitivity check index (QUICKI) indices were calculated. Our results showed that following T2D, serum levels of APN, and hippocampal levels of adiponectin receptor 1 (APNR1) were higher and HOMA-IR was lower in female than male rats (P < 0.05). However, after 8 weeks of HIIT, hippocampal levels of APNR1 and AMPK as well as QUICKI were lower and hippocampal levels of GSK, Tau, and Aβ were higher in females compared to male rats (P < 0.05). While the risk of CI following T2D was more in male than female rats HIIT showed a more ameliorating effect in male animals with APN1 as the main player.