bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Addition of Specific Metabolites to Bovine Epididymal Cell Culture Medium Enhances Survival and Motility of Cryopreserved Sperm
Authors: REYES‐MORENO CARLOS , GAGNON ANNIE , SULLIVAN ROBERT , SIRARD MARC‐ANDRE
Published: October 2023

ABSTRACT: We have developed a cell culture system of bovine epididymal epithelium in which cryopreserved bovine sperm motility was efficiently maintained for many hours. The culture conditions to maintain viable epididymal cells are quite different from conditions normally used to incubate sperm cells. Thus, we have modified a previously described principal cell medium (PCM; Moore et al, 1992) using HEPES as a buffer and supplemented media with myoinositol, pyruvate, lactate, glycerol, and carnitine to mimic epididymal intraluminal conditions. In the first experiments the effects of PCM and our epididymal cell medium (ECM) on sperm motility were compared in the absence of cells and evaluated by microscopic analysis under a phase contrast microscope or using the Hamilton Thorn Image Analyzer System. Our results showed that motility of cauda epididymal sperm was significantly higher in ECM than in PCM during a 48‐hour incubation period when both media were supplemented with 10% fetal bovine serum (FBS). We then replaced FBS with bovine serum albumin (BSA) or no proteins at all to verify if ECM was able to enhance sperm survival. To test this aspect we used frozen‐thawed sperm, which survived up to 48 hours when sperm cells were coincubated with epididymal cell monolayers. Hence, PCM, ECM, and different media containing each metabolite of ECM were supplemented with 0.5% BSA to assess motility of thawed sperm after an incubation period of 6 hours. A positive effect on sperm motility was observed in all fresh and unconditioned media containing 1 mM pyruvate. Motion parameters were more efficiently maintained in all conditioned media than in unconditioned media. Our results showed, however, that pyruvate was almost completely oxidized or consumed by epididymal cells during preincubation of culture media. We conclude that motility of frozen‐thawed bovine spermatozoa can be improved using a culture medium or a medium conditioned by epididymal cell cultures without carnitine but containing mainly pyruvate, inositol, glycerol, and lactate.
Separation of Ram Spermatozoa Bearing X and Y Chromosome by Centrifugal Countercurrent Distribution in an Aqueous Two‐phase System
Authors: OLLERO MARIO , PÉREZ‐PÉ ROSAURA , GARGALLO INMACULADA , MORLANES SONIA , OSADA JESÚS , MUIǸO‐BLANCO TERESA , CEBRIÁN‐PÉREZ JOSÉ A.
Published: October 2023

ABSTRACT: The availability of reliable quantification techniques of X and Y chromosome‐bearing spermatozoa in a given insemination dose would allow further approaches to their separation, which is a topic of unquestionable interest in animal production. The aim of the current work was the development of a combined approach of polymerase chain reaction and countercurrent distribution to address both objectives. First, using SacI polymorphisms for ZFX/ZFY loci in sheep deoxyribonucleic acid, a linear correlation has been established between the densitometric quantification of the restricted fragment length polymorphisms corresponding to the amplified loci ZFX/ ZFY by polymerase chain reaction and the theoretical proportions of X and Y chromosomes in standard solutions. The method, subsequently applied to semen samples, estimated an equal proportion of spermatozoa bearing each chromosome. Second, by using centrifugal countercurrent distribution in a sensitive‐charge aqueous two‐phase system, we achieved the separation of a sperm population enriched in Y chromosome‐bearing ram spermatozoa (75%) with a high viability rate (57%).
Targeted Disruption of the Cation‐Dependent or Cation‐Independent Mannose 6‐Phosphate Receptor Does Not Decrease the Content of Acid Glycosidases in the Acrosome
Authors: CHAYKO CATHERINE A. , ORGEBIN‐CRIST MARIE‐CLAIRE
Published: October 2023

ABSTRACT: The acrosome is a unique organelle containing acid hydrolases common to lysosomes as well as unique enzymes. Its ultimate exocytosis, as well as the absence of several lysosomal markers, has led to the speculation that it should be considered a secretory or zymogen vesicle rather than a specialized lysosome. The basic targeting machinery for eukaryotic lysosomal acid glycosidases are the two mannose 6‐phosphate receptors. Mouse testicular germ cells are known to express both the cation‐independent (CI‐MPR) and cation‐dependent (CD‐MPR) forms of the mannose 6‐phosphate receptors, but the CD‐MPR is predominant. In this report, we utilized the recent targeted disruption of the CD‐MPR and CI‐MPR genes to determine whether these mutations affect targeting of acid glycosidases to the acrosome. Antibody to luminal fluid β‐d‐galactosidase was used to examine the targeting of immunoreactive product within the acrosome of permeabilized spermatozoa and testicular spermatids. No obvious changes in acrosomal immunoreactivity in either MPR homozygous mutant were observed when compared with the case of wild‐type littermates. In addition, targeted disruption of either MPR did not result in decreased levels of β‐d‐galactosidase, α‐d‐mannosidase, or N‐acetylglucosaminidase activities in spermatozoa from either MPR‐homozygous mutant. These results suggest that the targeted disruption of either MPR does not result in decreased acrosomal targeting efficiency.
Many Families, Many Literacies: An International Declaration of Principles
Authors: McKay Sandra
Published: October 2023

Denny Taylor (Ed.). Portsmouth, NH: Heinemann, 1997
Grammar Contexts: A Resource Guide for Interactive Practice
Authors: Delaney Anne E.
Published: October 2023

Mary Ziemer. (1999).
The New Grammar in Action 2: An Integrated Course in English
Authors: Sherwin Sheryl
Published: October 2023

Barbara H. Foley and Elizabeth R. Neblett. (1998). Heinle & Heinle (20 Park Plaza, Boston, MA 02116, USA. Toll Free Tel. 800‐354‐9706; http:www.heinle.com).
Grammar Dimensions Book 4: Form, Meaning, and Use(2nd ed.)
Authors: Friel Scott , Irving Lisa
Published: October 2023

Jan Frodesen and Jane Eyring. (1997).
Teaching English Worldwide: A Practical Guide to Teaching
Authors: Wagner JoAnne Zoller
Published: October 2023

Paul Lindsay. Burlingame, CA: Alta Books, 2000
Facts and Figures: Basic Reading Practice(3rd ed.)
Authors: Lannen Victoria B.
Published: October 2023

Patricia Ackert with Jean Bernard. Boston, MA: Heinle & Heinle, 1999
Palmitate and glucose increase amyloid precursor protein in extracellular vesicles: Missing link between metabolic syndrome and Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Kim Bhumsoo , Kang Yoon‐Tae , Mendelson Faye E. , Hayes John M. , Savelieff Masha G. , Nagrath Sunitha , Feldman Eva L.
Published: October 2023

The metabolic syndrome (MetS) and Alzheimer's disease share several pathological features, including insulin resistance, abnormal protein processing, mitochondrial dysfunction and elevated inflammation and oxidative stress. The MetS constitutes elevated fasting glucose, obesity, dyslipidaemia and hypertension and increases the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease, but the precise mechanism remains elusive. Insulin resistance, which develops from a diet rich in sugars and saturated fatty acids, such as palmitate, is shared by the MetS and Alzheimer's disease. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are also a point of convergence, with altered dynamics in both the MetS and Alzheimer's disease. However, the role of palmitate‐ and glucose‐induced insulin resistance in the brain and its potential link through EVs to Alzheimer's disease is unknown. We demonstrate that palmitate and high glucose induce insulin resistance and amyloid precursor protein phosphorylation in primary rat embryonic cortical neurons and human cortical stem cells. Palmitate also triggers insulin resistance in oligodendrocytes, the supportive glia of the brain. Palmitate and glucose enhance amyloid precursor protein secretion from cortical neurons via EVs, which induce tau phosphorylation when added to naïve neurons. Additionally, EVs from palmitate‐treated oligodendrocytes enhance insulin resistance in recipient neurons. Overall, our findings suggest a novel theory underlying the increased risk of Alzheimer's disease in MetS mediated by EVs, which spread Alzheimer's pathology and insulin resistance.
Theory development in a globalized world: Bridging “Doing as the Romans Do” with “Understanding Why the Romans Do It”
Authors: Homer Stephen Thomas , Lim Weng Marc
Published: October 2023

The dialectic between micro and macro theoretical perspectives remains a cornerstone in the study of business and social science. As globalization intensifies, these perspectives offer unique but sometimes conflicting views, with macro theories providing panoramic insights and micro theories zooming into nuanced contexts. The dominance of Western‐centric etic theories, though beneficial historically, faces challenges in the evolving tapestry of our interconnected world. Firms today grapple with intricate landscapes influenced by varied cultural, political, and social factors, necessitating more context‐sensitive tools. This article delves into the merits and limitations of both perspectives, advocating for the symbiotic use of micro and macro theories to navigate the complexities of today's globalized business environment. By nurturing both theoretical paradigms, we pave the way for a richer, more holistic understanding of modern‐day challenges and opportunities.
Quantitative analysis of the glutathione pathway cellular metabolites by targeted liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry
Authors: Serafimov Kristian , Aydin Yüsra , Lämmerhofer Michael
Published: October 2023

Glutathione, its biosynthesis intermediates, and other thiol metabolites are of central relevance for the redox homeostasis of cells. Their analysis is critical due to the facile interconversion of redox pairs during sampling, sample preparation, and data acquisition, in particular in the electrospray ionization interface. In this work, we propose a fast‐targeted liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry method to accurately analyze 14 metabolites from the glutathione pathway. N‐Ethylmaleimide reagent is added with the extraction solvent and instantly stabilizes the thiol‐redox state by derivatization. Liquid chromatographic separation of the analytes was performed on a sub‐2 μm superficially porous hydrophilic interaction liquid chromatography column with sulfobetaine chemistry. Tandem mass spectrometry with triple‐quadrupole mass spectrometry in multiple‐reaction monitoring acquisition mode allowed sensitive detection of the targeted metabolites with limits of quantification in the range of 5–25 nM. Run times of 3 min enable a high throughput analysis of cellular samples. For calibration, a 13C‐labelled cell extract was used as an internal standard. The method was validated and the concentrations of glutathione and its biosynthesis intermediates were determined in HeLa cells.
An examination of relationship satisfaction as a predictor of outcomes of brief couple therapy for posttraumatic stress disorder
Authors: Sippel Lauren M. , Knopp Kayla C. , Wachsman Tamara , Khalifian Chandra E. , Glynn Shirley M. , Morland Leslie A.
Published: October 2023

The pretreatment quality of intimate relationships can promote or interfere with couple therapy for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) treatment response. We tested whether baseline relationship satisfaction predicted clinical and process outcomes in two dyadic treatments for PTSD. Using data from a randomized trial comparing brief cognitive behavioral conjoint therapy (bCBCT) for PTSD to PTSD family education (PFE) among 137 military veterans and their partners (N = 274, Mage = 42.3 years, 46.7% White, 81.0% male veteran partner), we examined whether baseline relationship satisfaction (Couples Satisfaction Index; CSI‐32) predicted change in PTSD symptom severity (Clinician Administered PTSD Scale for DSM‐5; CAPS‐5), psychosocial functioning (Brief Inventory of Psychosocial Functioning; B‐IPF), and relationship satisfaction at posttreatment and 6‐month follow‐up. We also explored associations with process outcomes (working alliance, treatment satisfaction, dropout). In both treatment conditions, neither partner's baseline CSI‐32 score moderated change in veteran CAPS‐5 or B‐IPF score or any process variable. However, baseline CSI‐32 scores moderated both partners’ CSI‐32 score change during bCBCT and PFE; participants who scored in the distressed range at baseline (n = 123) experienced significant improvements in relationship satisfaction, β = .199, whereas there was no change among those in the nondistressed range at baseline (n = 151), β = .025. Results suggest bCBCT and PFE are effective in improving PTSD symptoms and psychosocial functioning regardless of whether a couple is experiencing clinically significant relationship distress; further, these treatments improve relationship satisfaction for the most distressed individuals.
Preparation of Photochromic Microcapsules of Poly(methyl methacrylate)/Inorganic Metal Oxide Composite Shells with UV‐Resistant Properties and Application to Printing on Cotton Fabrics
Authors: Gao Jian , Dong Jiansheng , Wang Chaoxia , Yin Yunjie
Published: October 2023

To further enhance the fatigue resistance of spiropyran‐based photochromic materials and to explore the functionality of organic–inorganic metal oxide microcapsule shell materials, cross‐linked (P(MMA‐PETA)) and homopolymer (PMMA) shells have been developed by cross‐linking TiO2 and hybridizing ZnO on a PMMA matrix. PMMA/TiO2 photochromic microcapsules and PMMA/ZnO photochromic microcapsules with ultraviolet (UV)‐absorbing function are prepared by successfully encapsulating spiropyran photochromic compounds using these two composite shells. The results show that both microcapsules exhibit a complete spherical core–shell structure with good UV resistance and thermal stability. The TG test underlines a 50% coating rate of PMMA/ZnO microcapsules on spiropyran photochromic material, with an optimal ZnO addition of 10% and particle size range from 2 to 8 µm, effectively blocking UV‐A and part UV‐B radiation. Further, a 75% maximal coating rate is observed for PMMA/TiO2 microcapsules on spiropyran with optimal TiO2 addition at 2–4%, a particle size of around 5 µm, diffusely reflecting 48% of UV rays. The photochromic fabrics prepared with PMMA/TiO2 microcapsules have better UV resistance, with a UV protection factor value of 59.48, and excellent fatigue resistance after at least 30 cycles of UV–visible light irradiation.
Polyolefin‐Based Anion Exchange Membranes with Superior Performance and Long‐Term Durability for Green Hydrogen Production
Authors: Roggi Andrea , Guazzelli Elisa , Agonigi Gabriele , Filpi Antonio , Resta Claudio , Martinelli Elisa
Published: October 2023

In this work, a commercially available styrene‐butadiene block copolymer is functionalized with vinyl benzyl chloride (VBC) via solution free‐radical polymerization to obtain g‐VBC‐x graft copolymers. The molar content of VBC, also named functionalization degree (FD) or x, of g‐VBC‐x is varied in the range 10–27 mol%, simply by varying the concentration of VBC monomer in the feed or the reaction time. The g‐VBC‐x copolymers are used to prepare films by solution casting that are converted into anionic exchange membranes (AEMs) by heterogeneous quaternization reaction with trimethylamine (TMA). The membranes are extensively characterized to assess their thermal, mechanical, and ex‐situ electrochemical properties. The best performing AEMs having an FD of 20% and 27% are tested in an AEM single‐cell electrolyzer. Both of them are found to retain their original conductivity after more than 40 and 100 days, respectively. In particular, the membrane with the higher FD is characterized by the best in‐situ performance both in terms of ionic conductivity and cell potential.
Nylon Fabric/GO Based Self‐Powered Humidity Sensor Based on the Galvanic Cell Principle with High Air Permeability and Rapid‐Response
Authors: Lu Wenzhong , Zhang Qixiang , Liu Nishuang , Lei Dandan , Ren Ziqi , Yin Jianyu , Jia Peixue , Gao Yihua
Published: October 2023

Flexible humidity sensors have received more and more attention in people's lives, and the problems of gas permeability and power supply issues of the device have long been areas in need of improvement. In this work, inspired by the high air permeability of daily wear clothing and galvanic batteries, a self‐powered humidity sensor with high air permeability and fast response is designed. A nylon fabric/GO net (as a humidity sensitive layer and solid electrolyte) is obtained by spraying technique. This structure enables the sensor to have fast response/recovery (0.78 s/0.93 s, calculated at 90% of the final value), ultra‐high response (0.83 V) and excellent stability (over 150 cycles) at 35 °C. Such sensors are useful for health monitoring, such as non‐contact monitoring of human respiratory rate before and after exercise, and monitoring a level of humidity in the palms, arms, and fingers. This research provides an idea for developing a flexible wearable humidity sensor that is both breathable and self‐powered and can also be mass‐produced similar to wearable clothing.
Algorithm-Agnostic Feature Attributions for Clustering
Authors: Scholbeck Christian A. , Funk Henri , Casalicchio Giuseppe
Published: October 2023

Understanding how assignments of instances to clusters can be attributed to the features can be vital in many applications. However, research to provide such feature attributions has been limited. Clustering algorithms with built-in explanations are scarce. Common algorithm-agnostic approaches involve dimension reduction and subsequent visualization, which transforms the original features used to cluster the data; or training a supervised learning classifier on the found cluster labels, which adds additional and intractable complexity. We present FACT (feature attributions for clustering), an algorithm-agnostic framework that preserves the integrity of the data and does not introduce additional models. As the defining characteristic of FACT, we introduce a set of work stages: sampling, intervention, reassignment, and aggregation. Furthermore, we propose two novel FACT methods: SMART (scoring metric after permutation) measures changes in cluster assignments by custom scoring functions after permuting selected features; IDEA (isolatedeffect on assignment) indicates local and global changes in cluster assignments after making uniform changes to selected features.
Unfooling SHAP and SAGE: Knockoff Imputation for Shapley Values
Authors: Blesch Kristin , Wright Marvin N. , Watson David
Published: October 2023

Shapley values have achieved great popularity in explainable artificial intelligence. However, with standard sampling methods, resulting feature attributions are susceptible to adversarial attacks. This originates from target function evaluations at extrapolated data points, which are easily detectable and hence, enable models to behave accordingly. In this paper, we introduce a novel strategy for increased robustness against adversarial attacks of both local and global explanations: Knockoff imputed Shapley values. Our approach builds on the model-X knockoff methodology, which generates synthetic data that preserves statistical properties of the original samples. This enables researchers to flexibly choose an appropriate model to generate on-manifold data for the calculation of Shapley values upfront, instead of having to estimate a large number of conditional densities or make strong parametric assumptions. Through real and simulated data experiments, we demonstrate the effectiveness of knockoff imputation against adversarial attacks.
Open-Source System for Real-Time Functional Assessment of In Vitro Filtration Barriers
Authors: Fallon Tess K. , Zuvin Merve , Stern Alan D. , Anandakrishnan Nanditha , Daehn Ilse S. , Azeloglu Evren U.
Published: October 2023

The integrity of the barrier between blood and the selective filtrate of solutes is important for homeostasis and its disruption contributes to many diseases. Microphysiological systems that incorporate synthetic or natural membranes with human cells can mimic biological filtration barriers, such as the glomerular filtration barrier in the kidney, and they can readily be used to study cellular filtration processes as well as drug effects and interactions. We present an affordable, open-source platform for the real-time monitoring of functional filtration status in engineered microphysiological systems. Using readily available components, our assay can linearly detect real-time concentrations of two target molecules, FITC-labeled inulin and Texas Red-labeled human-serum albumin, within clinically relevant ranges, and it can be easily modified for different target molecules of varying sizes and tags. We demonstrate the platform’s ability to determine the concentration of our target molecules automatically and consistently. We show through an acellular context that the platform enables real-time tracking of size-dependent diffusion with minimal fluid volume loss and without manual extraction of media, making it suitable for continuous operational monitoring of filtration status in microphysiological system applications. The platform’s affordability and integrability with microphysiological systems make it ideal for many precision medicine applications, including evaluation of drug nephrotoxicity and other forms of drug discovery.
Interleukin-4 Modulates Neuroinflammation by Inducing Phenotypic Transformation of Microglia Following Subarachnoid Hemorrhage
Authors: Wang Jing , Wang Lili , Wu Qingjian , Cai Yichen , Cui Chengfu , Yang Ming , Sun Baoliang , Mao Leilei , Wang Yuan
Published: October 2023

Neuroinflammation, a key pathological feature following subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH), can be therapeutically targeted by inhibiting microglia M1 polarization and promoting phenotypic transformation to M2 microglia. Interleukin-4 (IL-4) is a pleiotropic cytokine known to its regulation of physiological functions of the central nervous system (CNS) and mediate neuroinflammatory processes. However, its specific role in neuroinflammation and microglia responses following SAH remains unexplored. In this investigation, we established both in vivo and in vitro SAH models and employed a comprehensive array of assessments, including ELISA, neurofunctional profiling, immunofluorescence staining, qRT-PCR, determination of phagocytic capacity, and RNA-Seq analyses. The findings demonstrate an elevated expression of IL-4 within cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) subsequent to SAH. Furthermore, exogenous administration of IL-4 ameliorates post-SAH neurofunctional deficits, attenuates cellular apoptosis, fosters M2 microglia phenotype conversion, and mitigates neuroinflammatory responses. The RNA-Seq analysis signifies that IL-4 governs the modulation of neuroinflammation in microglia within an in vitro SAH model through intricate cascades of signaling pathways, encompassing interactions between cytokines and cytokine receptors. These discoveries not only augment comprehension of the neuropathogenesis associated with post-SAH neuroinflammation but also present novel therapeutic targets for the management thereof.

Graphical Abstract
Effect of cooling rate during solidification on structure and mechanical properties of Cu45Zr48Al7 glass-forming alloy
Authors: Kozieł Tomasz , Cios Grzegorz , Rutkowski Bogdan , Wierzbicka-Miernik Anna , Pajor Krzysztof , Bała Piotr
Published: October 2023

The CuZr-based bulk metallic glass matrix composites have attracted great attention in recent years owing to their unique mechanical properties compared to bulk glassy samples. The vital effect of B2 CuZr phase on mechanical properties was previously confirmed in CuZr-based alloys with equiatomic concentrations of copper and zirconium. In this paper, the structures and mechanical properties of the Cu45Zr48Al7 alloy, which has hypereutectoid composition with respect to stoichiometric B2 CuZr phase, were studied. This alloy exhibits high glass-forming ability, but low tendency to form the B2 CuZr phase during solidification. However, we demonstrated that depending on the cooling rate during solidification, governed by sample diameter, either bulk metallic glass or bulk metallic glass matrix composite can be produced. In order to allow partial crystallization of the B2 phase during solidification with the volume fraction allowing to observe the strain hardening effect, the minimum cooling rate should be lower than 40 K/s. The composite consisting of a glassy outer layer and a crystalline core composed of the B2 phase exhibits fracture strength of the same level as the bulk glassy sample (above 1800 MPa) obvious work-hardening with a plastic deformation of about 6%.
Predictive Geochemical Exploration: Inferential Generation of Modern Geochemical Data, Anomaly Detection and Application to Northern Manitoba
Authors: Bourdeau Julie E. , Zhang Steven E. , Lawley Christopher J. M. , Parsa Mohammad , Nwaila Glen T. , Ghorbani Yousef
Published: October 2023

Geochemical surveys contain an implicit data lifecycle or pipeline that consists of data generation (e.g., sampling and analysis), data management (e.g., quality assurance and control, curation, provisioning and stewardship) and data usage (e.g., mapping, modeling and hypothesis testing). The current integration of predictive analytics (e.g., artificial intelligence, machine learning, data modeling) into the geochemical survey data pipeline occurs almost entirely within the data usage stage. In this study, we predict elemental concentrations at the data generation stage and explore how predictive analytics can be integrated more thoroughly across the data lifecycle. Inferential data generation is used to modernize lake sediment geochemical data from northern Manitoba (Canada), with results and interpretations focused on elements that are included in the Canadian Critical Minerals list. The results are mapped, interpreted and used for downstream analysis through geochemical anomaly detection to locate further exploration targets. Our integration is novel because predictive modeling is integrated into the data generation and usage stages to increase the efficacy of geochemical surveys. The results further demonstrate how legacy geochemical data are a significant data asset that can be predictively modernized and used to support time-sensitive mineral exploration of critical minerals that were unanalyzed in original survey designs. In addition, this type of integration immediately creates the possibility of a new exploration framework, which we call predictive geochemical exploration. In effect, it eschews sequential, grid-based and fixed resolution sampling toward data-driven, multi-scale and more agile approaches. A key outcome is a natural categorization scheme of uncertainty associated with further survey or exploration targets, whether they are covered by existing training data in a spatial or multivariate sense or solely within the coverage of inferred secondary data. The uncertainty categorization creates an effective implementation pathway for future multi-scale exploration by focusing data generation activities to de-risk survey practices.
Country-scale assessment of urban areas, population, and households exposed to land subsidence using Sentinel-1 InSAR, and GPS time series
Authors: Fernández-Torres Enrique Antonio , Cabral-Cano Enrique , Solano-Rojas Darío , Salazar-Tlaczani Luis , Gárcia-Venegas Josue , Marquez-Azúa Bertha , Graham Shannon , Villarnobo-Gonzalez Katia Michelle
Published: October 2023

The increased need for water resources in urban sprawls and intense droughts has forced more aggressive groundwater extraction resulting in numerous urban areas undergoing land subsidence. In most cases, only some large metropolitan areas have been well-characterized for subsidence. However, there is no existing country-wide assessment of urban areas, population, and households exposed to this process. This research showcases a methodology to systematically evaluate urban localities with land subsidence higher than − 2.8 cm/year throughout Mexico. We used Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar (InSAR) tools with a dataset of 4611 scenes from European Space Agency’s Sentinel-1 A/B SAR sensors acquired from descending orbits from September 2018 through October 2019. This dataset was processed at a supercomputer using InSAR Scientific Computing Environment and the Miami InSAR Time Series software in Python software. The quality and calibration of the resulting velocity maps are assessed through a large-scale comparison with observations from 100 continuous GPS sites throughout Mexico. Our results show that an urban area of 3797 km2, 6.9 million households, and 17% of the total population in Mexico is exposed to subsidence velocities of faster than − 2.8 cm/year, in more than 853 urban localities within 29 land subsidence regions. We also confirm previous global potential estimations of subsidence occurrence in low relief areas over unconsolidated deposits and where groundwater aquifers are under stress. The presented research demonstrates the capabilities for surveying urban areas exposed to land subsidence at a country-scale level by combining Sentinel-1 velocities with spatial national census data.
Between harmonization and unification in the European higher education area: scenarios for the European university initiative
Authors: Kanniainen Jari-Pekka , Pekkola Elias
Published: October 2023

This article explores future scenarios regarding the integration of European higher education (HE) in light of the European Universities Initiative which has been unfolding since 2017. Its aim is to understand potential development paths in light of the established intergovernmental Bologna Process, which has been diversified through international and supranational practices since its launch at the end of the 1990s. By way of European integration theories, we approach potential integration scenarios – a hitherto underutilized framework in HE studies. Our heuristic analysis of HE integration is based on secondary data; subsequently we construct and discuss four scenarios. Finally, we explore the implications of the scenarios from the perspective of the evaluation of the integration process of European HE.
Germination performance of alien and native species could shape community assembly of temperate grasslands under different temperature scenarios
Authors: Trotta Giacomo , Vuerich Marco , Petrussa Elisa , Hay Fiona R. , Assolari Silvia , Boscutti Francesco
Published: October 2023

Rising temperatures due to climate change are expected to interplay with biological invasions, and may enhance the spread and growth of some alien species upon arrival in new areas. To successfully invade, a plant species needs to overcome multiple biological barriers. Among the crucial life stages, seed germination greatly contributes to the final species assembly of a plant community. Several studies have suggested that alien plant success is related to their high seed germination and longevity in the soil. Hence, our aim is to test if the germination potential of alien seeds present in the seed bank will be further enhanced by future warming in temperate dry grasslands, an ecosystem that is among those most prone to biological invasions. We designed a laboratory germination experiment at two temperatures (20 and 28 °C), to simulate an early or late heat wave in the growing season, using seeds from nine common grassland Asteraceae species, including native, archaeophyte and neophyte species. The test was performed on both single and mixed pools of these categories of species, using a full-factorial orthogonal design. The warmer germination temperature promoted neophyte success by increasing germination probability and germination speed, while negatively impacting these parameters in seeds of native species. The co-occurrence of native and archaeophyte seeds at the lower temperature limited the invasiveness of neophytes. These results provide important information on future management actions aimed at containing alien plant invasions, by improving our knowledge on the possible seed-bank response and interaction mechanisms of common species occurring in disturbed natural areas or restored sites.

Graphical abstract

Summary of the experimental results. The colour of the flowers represent the status, divided as native (blue), neophyte (red) and archaeophyte (green). Each flower symbol represents the species pool for each plant category (i.e. NA = Buphthalmum salicifolium, Carlina vulgaris, Centaurea scabiosa; NE = Artemisia annua, Symphyotrichum novi-belgii, Senecio inaequidens; AR = Centaurea cyanus, Cichorium intybus, Tripleurospermum inodorum). The number of flowers represent the germination percentage of the various category assembly. In the columns are divided the various combination. From up to bottom the trend of germination percentage at 20 and 28 °C are shown.
Genomic Mosaicism of the Brain: Origin, Impact, and Utility
Authors: Graham Jared H. , Schlachetzki Johannes C. M. , Yang Xiaoxu , Breuss Martin W.
Published: October 2023

Genomic mosaicism describes the phenomenon where some but not all cells within a tissue harbor unique genetic mutations. Traditionally, research focused on the impact of genomic mosaicism on clinical phenotype—motivated by its involvement in cancers and overgrowth syndromes. More recently, we increasingly shifted towards the plethora of neutral mosaic variants that can act as recorders of cellular lineage and environmental exposures. Here, we summarize the current state of the field of genomic mosaicism research with a special emphasis on our current understanding of this phenomenon in brain development and homeostasis. Although the field of genomic mosaicism has a rich history, technological advances in the last decade have changed our approaches and greatly improved our knowledge. We will provide current definitions and an overview of contemporary detection approaches for genomic mosaicism. Finally, we will discuss the impact and utility of genomic mosaicism.
A mixture distributions analysis based feature selection approach for bearing remaining useful life estimation
Authors: Huang Fei , Sava Alexandre , Adjallah Kondo H. , Zhang Dongyang
Published: October 2023

Feature selection is a difficult but highly important preliminary step for bearings remaining useful life (RUL) estimation. To avoid the weights setting problem in hybrid metric, this work devotes to conduct feature selection by using a single metric. Due to noise and outliers, an existing feature selection metric, called monotonicity, used for estimating bearings RUL, requires data smoothing processing before adequate implementation. Such a smoothing process may remove significant part of meaningful information from data. To overcome this issue, a mixture distribution analysis-based feature selection metric is proposed. Moreover, based on this new metric, a feature selection approach for bearings RUL estimation is proposed. Numerical experiments benchmarking the proposed method and the existing metric monotonicity method on available real datasets highlight its effectiveness.
Spatially resolved CO2 carbon stable isotope analyses at the microscale using Raman spectroscopy
Authors: Remigi Samantha , Frezzotti Maria-Luce , Rizzo Andrea Luca , Esposito Rosario , Bodnar Robert J. , Sandoval-Velasquez Andres , Aiuppa Alessandro
Published: October 2023

Measuring the carbon stable isotope ratio (13C/12C, expressed as δ13CCO2) in geogenic CO2 fluids is a crucial geochemical tool for studying Earth's degassing. Carbon stable isotope analysis is traditionally performed by bulk mass spectrometry. Although Raman spectroscopy distinguishes 12CO2 and 13CO2 isotopologue bands in spectra, using this technique to determine CO2 isotopic signature has been challenging. Here, we report on in-situ non-destructive analyses of the C stable isotopic composition of CO2, applying a novel high-resolution Raman configuration on 42 high-density CO2 fluid inclusions in mantle rocks from the Lake Tana region (Ethiopia) and El Hierro (Canary Islands). We collected two sets of three spectra with different acquisition times at high spectral resolution in each fluid inclusion. Among the 84 sets of spectra, 58 were characterised by integrated 13CO2/12CO2 band area ratios with reproducibility better than 4‰. Our results demonstrate the determination of δ13CCO2 by Raman spectroscopy in individual fluid inclusions with an error better than 2.5 ‰, which satisfactorily matches bulk mass spectrometry analyses in the same rock samples, supporting the accuracy of the measurements. We thus show that Raman Spectroscopy can provide a fundamental methodology for non-destructive, site-specific, and spatially resolved carbon isotope labelling at the microscale.
Serum oxalate concentration is associated with coronary artery calcification and cardiovascular events in Japanese dialysis patients
Authors: Nishizawa Yoko , Miyata Satoshi , Tosaka Mai , Hirasawa Eriko , Hosoda Yumi , Horimoto Ai , Omae Kiyotsugu , Ito Kyoko , Nagano Nobuo , Hoshino Junichi , Ogawa Tetsuya
Published: October 2023

Coronary artery calcification (CAC) is associated with cardiovascular disease (CVD). CAC might contain calcium oxalate, and a high serum oxalate (SOx) concentration is associated with cardiovascular mortality in dialysis patients. We assessed the associations between SOx and CAC or CVD events in Japanese hemodialysis patients. This cross-sectional and retrospective cohort study was done in 2011. Seventy-seven hemodialysis patients’ Agatston CAC score was measured, and serum samples were collected. SOx concentrations were measured in 2021 by using frozen samples. Also, new-onset CVD events in 2011–2021 were retrospectively recorded. The association between SOx concentration and CAC score ≥ 1000, and new-onset CVD events were examined. Median SOx concentration and CAC score were 266.9 (229.5–318.5) µmol/L and 912.5 (123.7–2944), respectively. CAC score ≥ 1000 was associated with SOx [adjusted odds ratio (OR) 1.01, 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.00–1.02]. The number of new-onset CVD events was significantly higher in patients with SOx ≥ median value [hazard ratio (HR) 2.71, 95% CI 1.26–6.16]. By Cox proportional hazard models, new-onset CVD events was associated with SOx ≥ median value (adjusted HR 2.10, 95% CI 0.90–4.91). SOx was associated with CAC score ≥ 1000 and new-onset CVD events in Japanese hemodialysis patients.
An underwater image enhancement model combining physical priors and residual network
Authors: Fan Xinnan , Zhou Xuan , Chen Hongzhu , Xin Yuanxue , Shi Pengfei
Published: October 2023

Deep learning‐based methods have achieved notable performance for underwater image enhancement. However, previous studies are mostly focused on pursuing high similarity between the original image and the target, which incurs performance drop when the models are used for real‐world images. A new framework for underwater image enhancement is proposed to improve the generalization performance of enhancement. First, the coordinate attention module is integrated into the backbone network, which serves as a pre‐trained model, to strengthen the feature extraction capability of the network. Second, the backbone is finetuned by physical prior knowledge and real‐world images, in an unsupervised manner, to realize generalization from artificial images to real‐world images. Furthermore, a model protection mechanism is designed to guarantee the successful execution of the training. The experimental results indicate that the proposed method provides a powerful pre‐trained backbone network and the finetuning strategy can further solve the color distortion and improve the image sharpening, especially in the harsh real environment. Compared with relevant methods, the UCIQE and NIQE are, respectively, 0.525 and 4.149, with a 0.009–0.095 increase in UCIQE and a 0.256–1.032 decrease in NIQE compared to other methods.
Clinical assessment of upper limb impairments and functional capacity in Parkinson's disease: a systematic review
Authors: Capato Tamine T. C. , Rodrigues Rúbia , Cury Rubens G. , Teixeira Manoel Jacobsen , Barbosa Egberto R.
Published: October 2023

Background Parkinson's disease (PD) may progressively reduce the upper limb's functionality. Currently, there is no standardized upper limb functional capacity assessment in PD in the rehabilitation field.

Objective To identify specific outcome measurements to assess upper limbs in PD and access functional capacity.

Methods We systematically reviewed and analyzed the literature in English published from August/2012 to August/2022 according to PRISMA. The following keywords were used in our search: “upper limbs” OR “upper extremity” and “Parkinson's disease.” Two researchers searched independently, including studies accordingly to our inclusion and exclusion criteria. Registered at PROSPERO CRD42021254486.

Results We found 797 studies, and 50 were included in this review (n = 2.239 participants in H&Y stage 1–4). The most common upper limbs outcome measures found in the studies were: (i) UPDRS-III and MDS-UPDRS to assess the severity and progression of PD motor symptoms (tremor, bradykinesia, and rigidity) (ii) Nine Hole Peg Test and Purdue Pegboard Test to assess manual dexterity; (iii) Spiral test and Funnel test to provoke and assess freezing of upper limbs; (iv) Technology assessment such as wearables sensors, apps, and other device were also found.

Conclusion We found evidence to support upper limb impairments assessments in PD. However, there is still a large shortage of specific tests to assess the functional capacity of the upper limbs. The upper limbs' functional capacity is insufficiently investigated during the clinical and rehabilitation examination due to a lack of specific outcome measures to assess functionality.
A framework for understanding reliability in container shipping networks
Authors: Yue Zhongyun , Mangan John
Published: October 2023

Improving reliability is increasingly regarded as an important topic in maritime transportation, especially given the significant impact that both uncertainty and delays in shipping and at ports have on the efficient flow of freight along wider supply chains. The term ‘reliability’ appears in different academic fields and with a variety of different meanings and interpretations. In transportation, reliability has been studied in most modes, but less so in the case of maritime containerisation. This paper reports on a systematic literature review of the concept of reliability in transportation, with a focus on reliability in container shipping networks. The selected papers were analysed to extract information according to the three identified sub-networks: (1) ports, including studies with a focus on infrastructure, service availability and risks in ports and hinterlands; (2) network structures, including the configuration of the networks, the vulnerability and resilience of the existing networks; (3) supply chains, including connectivity and planning of activities that integrate stakeholders within the supply chain. These sub-networks were then used to further query the database, searching for papers relevant to the research problem. Two research questions are addressed: (1) How is reliability best understood in the context of container shipping networks? (2) What are the determinants that affect container shipping network reliability? The review showed that there is no uniform definition of reliability in container shipping networks, but different approaches to understand it, depending on the theoretical perspective, have been adopted. Influencing factors and relevant metrics are discussed and a framework combining different dimensions of reliability, expressed as three themes, i.e., infrastructure reliability, network configuration reliability, and connectivity reliability, is developed. This can help both practitioners and researchers to understand in more detail the various dimensions and nuances of reliability specifically in the context of container shipping, its interrelationship with wider logistics systems and how, where possible, reliability can be improved.
Hierarchical shift of the Aedes albopictus microbiota caused by antimicrobiota vaccine increases fecundity and egg-hatching rate in female mosquitoes
Authors: Mateos-Hernández Lourdes , Maitre Apolline , Abuin-Denis Lianet , Obregon Dasiel , Martin Edwige , Luis Patricia , Maye Jennifer , Wu-Chuang Alejandra , Valiente Moro Claire , Cabezas-Cruz Alejandro
Published: October 2023

Recent studies show that mosquito–microbiota interactions affects vector competence and fitness. We investigated if host antibodies modifying microbiota impact mosquito physiology. We focused on three prevalent bacteria (Acinetobacter, Pantoea, and Chryseobacterium), originally isolated from the Asian tiger mosquito Aedes albopictus. Our goal was to assess the impact of host antibodies on mosquito microbiota and life traits. Female mosquitoes were fed with blood from rabbits immunized with each bacterium or a mock vaccine. We compared various factors, including feeding behavior, survival rates, and reproductive success of the mosquitoes. Interestingly, mosquitoes fed with blood from a Chryseobacterium-immunized rabbit showed a significant increase in fecundity and egg-hatching rate. This outcome correlated with a decrease in the abundance of Chryseobacterium within the mosquito microbiota. While no significant changes were observed in the alpha and beta diversity indexes between the groups, our network analyses revealed an important finding. The antimicrobiota vaccines had a considerable impact on the bacterial community assembly. They reduced network robustness, and altered the hierarchical organization of nodes in the networks. Our findings provide the basis for the rational design of antimicrobiota vaccines to reduce mosquito fitness and potentially induce infection-refractory states in the microbiota to block pathogen transmission.
Reference populations for examining possible racial profiling
Authors: VanDerwerken Douglas N , Fowler Mary Santi , Kadane Joseph B
Published: October 2023

Two recent Massachusetts Supreme Court cases, Commonwealth v. Long (2020) and Commonwealth v. Robinson-Van Rader (2023), have made it easier for defendants to successfully challenge police stops allegedly based on race or another protected class. Such challenges often consist, at least in part, of demonstrating that the racial distribution of those stopped by police differs meaningfully from the racial distribution of an appropriate reference population. We describe a series of cases, culminating in Long and Van Rader, that have clarified the legal standard required to mount a successful racial profiling challenge in Massachusetts as well as the nature of appropriate reference populations. In some of these cases, we served as expert witnesses.