bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimal Treatment Based on Interferon No Longer Makes Clinical Cure of Chronic Hepatitis B Far Away: An Evidence‐Based Review on Emerging Clinical Data
Authors: Li Yujing , Wang Fada , Zhou Jing , Li Lanqing , Song Chengrun , Chen Enqiang
Published: April 2024

Chronic hepatitis B (CHB) remains a major global public health problem. The functional cure is the ideal therapeutic target recommended by the latest guidelines, and pursuing a functional cure has become the key treatment end point of current therapy and for upcoming clinical trials. In this review, based on the latest published clinical research evidence, we analyzed the concept and connotation of clinical cures and elaborated on the benefits of clinical cures in detail. Secondly, we have summarized various potential treatment methods for achieving clinical cures, especially elaborating on the latest research progress of interferon‐based optimized treatment strategies in achieving clinical cures. We also analyzed which populations can achieve clinical cures and conducted a detailed analysis of relevant virological and serological markers in screening clinical cure advantage populations and predicting clinical cure achievement. In addition, we also introduced the difficulties that may be encountered in the current pursuit of achieving a clinical cure.
A case study on the stability of a big underground powerhouse cavern cut by an interlayer shear zone in the China Baihetan hydropower plant
Authors: Zou Lifang , Meng Guotao , Wu Jiayao , Fu Wei , Chu Weijiang , Xu Weiya
Published: April 2024

The big underground powerhouse cavern of the China Baihetan hydropower plant is 438 m long, 34 m wide, and 88.7 m high. It is cut by a weak interlayer shear zone and its high sidewall poses a huge stability problem. This paper reports our successful solution of this problem through numerical simulations and a replacement‐tunnel scheme in the detailed design stage and close site monitoring in the excavation stage. Particularly, in the detail design stage, mechanical parameters of the shear zone were carefully determined through laboratory experiments and site tests. Then, deformation of the surrounding rocks and the shear zone under high in situ stress conditions was predicted using 3 Dimensional Distinct Element Code (3DEC). Subsequently, a replacement‐tunnel scheme was proposed for the treatment on the shear zone to prevent severe unloading relaxation of surrounding rocks. In the construction period, excavation responses were closely monitored on deformations of surrounding rocks and the shear zone. The effect of local cracking in the replacement tunnels on sidewall stability was evaluated using the strength reduction method. These monitoring results were compared with the predicted numerical simulation in the detailed design stage. It is found that the shear zone greatly modified the deformation mode of the cavern surrounding rocks. Without any treatment, rock mass deformation on the downstream sidewall was larger than 125 mm and the shearing deformation of the shear zone was 60–70 mm. These preset replacement tunnels can reduce not only the unloading and relaxation of rock masses but also the maximum shearing deformation of the shear zone by 10–20 mm. The predictions by numerical simulation were in good agreement with the monitoring results. The proposed tunnel‐replacement scheme can not only restrain the shear zone deformation but also enhance the safety of surrounding rocks and concrete tunnels. This design procedure offers a good reference for interaction between a big underground cavern and a weak layer zone in the future.
Identifying somatic fingerprints of cancers defined by germline and environmental risk factors
Authors: Chakraborty Saptarshi , Guan Zoe , Kostrzewa Caroline E. , Shen Ronglai , Begg Colin B.
Published: April 2024

Numerous studies over the past generation have identified germline variants that increase specific cancer risks. Simultaneously, a revolution in sequencing technology has permitted high‐throughput annotations of somatic genomes characterizing individual tumors. However, examining the relationship between germline variants and somatic alteration patterns is hugely challenged by the large numbers of variants in a typical tumor, the rarity of most individual variants, and the heterogeneity of tumor somatic fingerprints. In this article, we propose statistical methodology that frames the investigation of germline‐somatic relationships in an interpretable manner. The method uses meta‐features embodying biological contexts of individual somatic alterations to implicitly group rare mutations. Our team has used this technique previously through a multilevel regression model to diagnose with high accuracy tumor site of origin. Herein, we further leverage topic models from computational linguistics to achieve interpretable lower‐dimensional embeddings of the meta‐features. We demonstrate how the method can identify distinctive somatic profiles linked to specific germline variants or environmental risk factors. We illustrate the method using The Cancer Genome Atlas whole‐exome sequencing data to characterize somatic tumor fingerprints in breast cancer patients with germline BRCA1/2 mutations and in head and neck cancer patients exposed to human papillomavirus.
Associating Knee Osteoarthritis Progression with Temporal‐Regional Graph Convolutional Network Analysis on MR Images
Authors: Hu Jiaping , Peng Junyi , Zhou Zidong , Zhao Tianyun , Zhong Lijie , Yu Keyan , Jiang Kexin , Lau Tzak Sing , Huang Chuan , Lu Lijun , Zhang Xiaodong
Published: April 2024

Background

Artificial intelligence shows promise in assessing knee osteoarthritis (OA) progression on MR images, but faces challenges in accuracy and interpretability.

Purpose

To introduce a temporal‐regional graph convolutional network (TRGCN) on MR images to study the association between knee OA progression status and network outcome.

Study Type

Retrospective.

Population

194 OA progressors (mean age, 62 ± 9 years) and 406 controls (mean age, 61 ± 9 years) from the OA Initiative were randomly divided into training (80%) and testing (20%) cohorts.

Field Strength/Sequence

Sagittal 2D IW‐TSE‐FS (IW) and 3D‐DESS‐WE (DESS) at 3T.

Assessment

Anatomical subregions of cartilage, subchondral bone, meniscus, and the infrapatellar fat pad at baseline, 12‐month, and 24‐month were automatically segmented and served as inputs to form compartment‐based graphs for a TRGCN model, which containing both regional and temporal information. The performance of models based on (i) clinical variables alone, (ii) radiologist score alone, (iii) combined features (containing i and ii), (iv) composite TRGCN (combining TRGCN, i and ii), (v) radiomics features, (vi) convolutional neural network based on Densenet‐169 were compared.

Statistical Tests

DeLong test was performed to compare the areas under the ROC curve (AUC) of all models. Additionally, interpretability analysis was done to evaluate the contributions of individual regions. A P value <0.05 was considered significant.

Results

The composite TRGCN outperformed all other models with AUCs of 0.841 (DESS) and 0.856 (IW) in the testing cohort (all P < 0.05). Interpretability analysis highlighted cartilage's importance over other structures (42%–45%), tibiofemoral joint's (TFJ) dominance over patellofemoral joint (PFJ) (58%–67% vs. 12%–37%), and importance scores changes in compartments over time (TFJ vs. PFJ: baseline: 44% vs. 43%, 12‐month: 52% vs. 39%, 24‐month: 31% vs. 48%).

Data Conclusion

The composite TRGCN, capturing temporal and regional information, demonstrated superior discriminative ability compared with other methods, providing interpretable insights for identifying knee OA progression.

Level of Evidence

4.

Technical Efficacy

Stage 2.
Differential influence of quadriceps rate of torque development on single‐ and double‐leg landing mechanics in anterior cruciate ligament reconstructed and control females
Authors: Huang Yu‐Lun , Mulligan Colin M. S. , Johnson Samuel T. , Pollard Christine D. , Hannigan Kim , Stutzenberger Lyndsay , Norcross Marc F.
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The capacity to explosively contract quadriceps within the critical timeframe associated with anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury, quantified by the rate of torque development, is potentially essential for safe landing mechanics. This study aimed to investigate the influence of explosive quadriceps strength on ACL‐related sagittal‐plane landing mechanics in females with and without ACL reconstruction (ACLR).

Methods

Quadriceps explosive strength and landing mechanics were assessed in 19 ACLR and 19 control females during isometric contractions and double‐ and single‐leg jump landings. A stepwise multiple linear regression model determined the variance in each of the landing biomechanics variables for the ACLR limb and nondominant limb of controls that could be explained by the group, rate of torque development and/or their interaction. If peak kinetic variables could be predicted by the rate of torque development or interaction, additional analyses were conducted, accounting for knee flexion as a covariate in the regression model.

Results

During single‐leg landings, ACLR females exhibited greater knee flexion at initial contact than controls (p = 0.04). Greater quadriceps rate of torque development predicted higher peak posterior ground reaction force and anterior tibial shear force in both groups (p = 0.04). However, after controlling for knee flexion angle at those peak forces, quadriceps rate of torque development was not predictive. In double‐leg landings, greater explosive quadriceps strength was associated with quicker attainment of peak knee extension moment and posterior ground reaction force in the ACLR limb (p = 0.03).

Conclusion

Regardless of ACL injury status, females with greater explosive quadriceps strength adopted safer single‐leg landings through increased knee flexion, potentially mitigating ACL loading despite encountering higher peak forces. During double‐leg landings, a greater explosive quadriceps strength of the ACLR limb is associated with faster achievement of peak force upon landing. Incorporating explosive quadriceps strengthening into post‐ACLR rehabilitation and injury prevention programmes may enhance landing mechanics for reducing primary and subsequent ACL injury risks.

Level of Evidence

Level II.
Immunotherapy in the Management of Sinonasal Mucosal Melanoma: A Systematic Review
Authors: Tang Anthony , Taori Suchet , Dang Sophia , Gardner Paul A. , Zenonos Georgios A. , Davar Diwakar , Kuan Edward C. , Snyderman Carl H. , Wang Eric W. , Choby Garret
Published: April 2024

Objective

The aim of this work is to comprehensively review and synthesize the literature related to sinonasal mucosal melanoma (SNMM) treatment with immunotherapy, including potentially targetable genetic mutations, survival outcomes, and adverse events.

Data Sources

Embase, Cochrane, Scopus, and Web of Science.

Review Methods

The study protocol was designed according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐analysis statement. Databases were searched from inception through May 23, 2023.

Results

A total of 42 studies met inclusion criteria. Twenty‐four of the included studies reported genetic mutations for a combined 787 patients with SNMM. 8.1% (95% confidence interval, CI: 7.6‐8.6), 18.9% (95% CI: 18.1‐19.8), and 8.5% (95% CI: 8.1‐9.0) of reported patients were positive for BRAF, NRAS, and KIT mutations, respectively. The presence of brisk tumor‐infiltrating lymphocytes was associated with improved recurrence‐free survival and overall survival (OS). Six studies reported a combined 5‐year OS after adjuvant immunotherapy treatment of 42.6% (95% CI: 39.4‐45.8). Thirteen studies encompassing 117 patients reported adjuvant or salvage immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) immunotherapy response rates: 40.2% (95% CI: 36.8‐43.6) had a positive response (tumor volume reduction or resolution). Eleven studies reported direct comparisons between SNMM patients treated with or without immunotherapy; the majority (7/11) reported survival benefit for their entire cohort or select subgroups of SNMM patients. With the transition to modern ICIs, there is a stronger trend toward survival improvement with adjuvant ICI. Tumors with Ki67 <40% may respond better to ICI's.

Conclusion

ICI therapy can be an effective in select SNMM patients, especially those with advanced/metastatic disease.
Tunable Release of Ions from Graphene Oxide Laminates for Sustained Antibacterial Activity in a Biomimetic Environment
Authors: Suran Swathi , Kamyar Negin , Huang Kun , Foroutan Farzad , Balakrishna Pillai Premlal , Liu Xuzhao , Vaughan John , Wilson Darren , Day Philip J. , Nair Rahul R.
Published: April 2024

Silver has long been recognized for its potent antimicrobial properties, but achieving a slow and longer‐term delivery of silver ions presents significant challenges. Previous efforts to control silver ion dosages have struggled to sustain release for extended periods in biomimetic environments, especially in the presence of complex proteins. This challenge is underscored by the absence of technology for sustaining antimicrobial activity, especially in the context of orthopedic implants where long‐term efficacy, extending beyond 7 days, is essential. In this study, the tunable, slow, and longer‐term release of silver ions from the two‐dimensional (2D) nanocapillaries of graphene oxide (GO) laminates incorporated with silver ions (Ag‐GO) for antimicrobial applications are successfully demonstrated. To closely mimic a physiologically relevant serum‐based environment, a novel in vitro study model using 100% fetal bovine serum (FBS) is introduced as the test medium for microbiology, biocompatibility, and bioactivity studies. To emulate fluid circulation in a physiological environment, the in vitro studies are challenged with serum exchange protocols on different days. The findings show that the Ag‐GO coating can sustainably release silver ions at a minimum dosage of 10 µg cm−2 day−1, providing an effective and sustained antimicrobial barrier for over ten days.
Toward Quantitative Electrodeposition via In Situ Liquid Phase Transmission Electron Microscopy: Studying Electroplated Zinc Using Basic Image Processing and 4D STEM
Authors: Park Junbeom , Dutta Sarmila , Sun Hongyu , Jo Janghyun , Karanth Pranav , Weber Dieter , Tavabi Amir H. , Durmus Yasin Emre , Dzieciol Krzysztof , Jodat Eva , Karl André , Kungl Hans , Pivak Yevheniy , Garza H. Hugo Pérez , George Chandramohan , Mayer Joachim , Dunin‐Borkowski Rafal E. , Basak Shibabrata , Eichel Rüdiger‐A
Published: April 2024

High energy density electrochemical systems such as metal batteries suffer from uncontrollable dendrite growth on cycling, which can severely compromise battery safety and longevity. This originates from the thermodynamic preference of metal nucleation on electrode surfaces, where obtaining the crucial information on metal deposits in terms of crystal orientation, plated volume, and growth rate is very challenging. In situ liquid phase transmission electron microscopy (LPTEM) is a promising technique to visualize and understand electrodeposition processes, however a detailed quantification of which presents significant difficulties. Here by performing Zn electroplating and analyzing the data via basic image processing, this work not only sheds new light on the dendrite growth mechanism but also demonstrates a workflow showcasing how dendritic deposition can be visualized with volumetric and growth rate information. These results along with additionally corroborated 4D STEM analysis take steps to access information on the crystallographic orientation of the grown Zn nucleates and toward live quantification of in situ electrodeposition processes.
Endovascular Thrombectomy for Large Ischemic Strokes with ASPECTS 0–2: a Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Winkelmeier Laurens , Maros Máté , Flottmann Fabian , Heitkamp Christian , Schön Gerhard , Thomalla Götz , Fiehler Jens , Hanning Uta
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) demonstrated a treatment effect of endovascular thrombectomy in acute ischemic stroke with large infarct, commonly defined as an Alberta Stroke Program Early CT Score (ASPECTS) of 3–5. However, data on endovascular thrombectomy in patients with very low ASPECTS of 0–2 remain scarce.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of RCTs comparing endovascular thrombectomy versus medical treatment alone in acute ischemic anterior circulation stroke with very large infarct, defined as ASPECTS of 0–2. The primary outcome was the shift toward better functional outcomes on the 90-day modified Rankin Scale (mRS). Random effects meta-analysis was performed using the generic inverse variance method.

Results

Literature research identified four RCTs which evaluated the treatment effect of endovascular thrombectomy for large infarcts and provided a subgroup analysis of the mRS shift in patients with ASPECTS of 0–2. The pooled analysis showed a significant shift toward better 90-day mRS scores in favor of endovascular thrombectomy (pooled odds ratio, 1.62, 95% confidence interval, 1.29–2.04, P < 0.001).

Conclusion

This meta-analysis suggests a treatment effect of endovascular thrombectomy in specific patients with very low ASPECTS of 0–2, challenging the use of ASPECTS for treatment selection in acute ischemic stroke due to large vessel occlusion. An individual patient meta-analysis of RCTs would strengthen evidence in the treatment of patients with ASPECTS of 0–2.

Graphic abstract
Quasiconformal deformation of the chordal Loewner driving function and first variation of the Loewner energy
Authors: Sung Jinwoo , Wang Yilin
Published: April 2024

We derive the variational formula of the Loewner driving function of a simple chord under infinitesimal quasiconformal deformations with Beltrami coefficients supported away from the chord. As an application, we obtain the first variation of the Loewner energy of a Jordan curve, defined as the Dirichlet energy of its driving function. This result gives another explanation of the identity between the Loewner energy and the universal Liouville action introduced by Takhtajan and Teo, which has the same variational formula. We also deduce the variation of the total mass of $$\hbox {SLE}_{8/3}$$

SLE

8
/
3

loops touching the Jordan curve under quasiconformal deformations.
Quantitative analysis of body colouration in Sebastes rockfishes
Authors: Deville Diego , Kawai Kentaro , Umino Tetsuya
Published: April 2024

Body colouration, a trait under strong selection, is influenced by the visual background of the environment. The stable influence of depth on visual background dynamics is due to light attenuation along the water column. Depth is also a key factor driving diversification in Sebastes rockfishes, influencing variations in several biological traits. Comparisons between closely related species suggest that brightly coloured species (red, orange, or yellow) tend to inhabit deeper waters and have slower growth rates compared to their shallow-water counterparts with dominance of dark colours (black, brown, or grey). Here, we used 377 photos from 100 Sebastes species, along with recently developed methods of colour quantification and phylogenetic comparative analyses, to assess this trend. Our analyses confirmed the separation of body colouration regarding depth, which was accompanied by differences in growth rates and morphological traits. This indicated that variations in body colourations are included in the ongoing correlational selection process dictated by depth. Analyses of closely related species indicated that depth is an initial driver of colour differentiation and that colour differences do not progressively increase with genetic divergences. We hypothesized that the bright-coloured rockfishes are found in deeper waters because in shallow environments they are more vulnerable to the potential negative effects of UV radiation and higher predation risk, while their predation successes are lessened, in comparison to dark-coloured rockfishes. Overall, this study emphasizes the intricate relationship between genetics, environment, adaptation, and the striking diversity of body colourations observed in Sebastes rockfishes.
Off-Axis Co-Optical Path Large-Range Line Scanning Chromatic Confocal Sensor
Authors: Liao Meizhong , Yang Yuqi , Lu Xiaolian , Li Haiqi , Zhang Jun , Wang Jinfeng , Chen Zhe
Published: April 2024

This article proposes a line scanning chromatic confocal sensor to solve the problem of limited chromatic confocal measurement due to the small measurement range and low measurement efficiency in the industrial inspection process. To obtain an extensive dispersion range, the advantages of a simple single-axis structure are combined with the advantages of a large luminous flux of a biaxial structure. Considering large-scale measurement, our sensor uses off-axis rays to limit the illumination path and imaging path to the same optical path structure. At the same time, the field of view is expanded, and a symmetrical structure is adopted to provide a compact optical path and improve space utilization. The simulation and physical system test results shows that the sensor scanning line length is 12.5 mm, and the axial measurement range in the 450 nm to 750 nm band is better than 20 mm. The axial resolution of the detector is ±1 µm combined with the subpixel centroid extraction data processing method, and the maximum allowable tilt angle for specular reflection samples is ±7°. The thicknesses of transparent standard flat glass and the wet collagen membrane are measured. The maximum average error is 1.3 µm, and the relative error is within 0.7%. The constructed sensor is of great significance for rapidly measuring the three-dimensional profile, flatness, and thickness in the fields of transparent biological samples, optics, micromechanics, and semiconductors.
‘Girls do this, guys do that’: how first-in-family students negotiate working-class gendered subjectivities during a time of social change
Authors: McDonald Sarah , Stahl Garth
Published: April 2024

Despite efforts to foster a more equitable gender representation, Australia's higher education sector and workforce continue to be highly segregated. This article focusses on the gendered experiences of first-in-family (FIF) students—many who are from low-socioeconomic communities—transitioning to Australian universities. In terms of the gendered nature of widening participation, we know students who are FIF will often study disciplines which align with traditional gender norms. Drawing on the First-in-Family Project (n = 48), we present the analysis of our findings in two parts. First, we provide an overview of the cohort where we analyse the gendering of degree choice of FIF students. Second, underpinned by theoretical work focussed on student gendered and classed subjectivities, we address how FIF young people negotiated classed and gendered norms during the transition to university. Our data suggest that young people engage in ‘gender work’ and ‘class work’ which informs their identities and how they make choices about their futures. Based on our research, we argue that to achieve social justice there is a need for a renewed attention to gender within the widening participation agenda.
Comparison of microwave assisted foam drying processes to improve the physicochemical properties and to reduce GHG values of the melon powder processes
Authors: TAŞOVA Muhammed , DURSUN Samet Kaya
Published: April 2024

In this study, in the process of valorizing melon biomass into food powder at 360, 540, 720 and.

900 W power values; Drying rate, moisture rate, effective moisture diffusion, SMER-SEC energy consumption and greenhouse gas emission (GHG) values of production processes were investigated. It was determined that the average drying rates of the samples varied between 0.2393–0.9376 g moisture/g dry matter.minute. According to microwave power values, the effective moisture diffusion values of the products were found to vary between 5.47 × 10–7-2.27 × 10–6 m2/s. It was determined that the average SMER values of the drying processes varied between 0.024–0.047 kg/kWh and SEC values varied between 21.12–40.93 kWh/kg. According to the drying processes, NOX, SO2 and CO2 values were calculated to vary between 0.210–1.106, 0.00–2.919 and 49.50–200.168 g, respectively. It was found that the most suitable microwave power in terms of drying kinetics, energy consumption and greenhouse gas values was 900 W.
Understanding Fluid Flow
Authors: Worster Grae
Published: April 2024

Understanding Fluid Flow takes a fresh approach to introducing fluid dynamics, with physical reasoning and mathematical developments inextricably intertwined. The 'dry' fluid dynamics described by potential theory is set within the context of real viscous flows to give fundamental insight into how fluids behave. The book gives a flavour of theoretical, experimental and numerical approaches to analysing fluid flow, and implicitly develops skills in applied mathematical modelling of physical systems. It is supplemented by movies that are freely downloadable.
Between Muslim Pīr and Hindu Saint
Authors: Kumar Mukesh
Published: April 2024

This book focuses on the shared religious figure of Laldas/Khan, and uncovers fascinating historical and contemporary dimensions of Hindu-Muslim socio-cultural interactions around his shrines. It explores reformist and extremist politics that have influenced shared religious traditions, shedding light on the impact of the reformist ideologies of the Arya Samaj and Tablighi Jamaat on the followers of Laldas. It presents a compelling analysis of how some shared religious practices persist and adapt amidst the pressures of dominant reform movements. The inclusion of marginalised voices, particularly women, adds a poignant and powerful dimension to the narrative. Through its comprehensive and thought-provoking approach, the book provides valuable insights into the continuously evolving religious landscape of north Indian devotional Hinduism and popular Islam. This title is also available as Open Access on Cambridge Core.
Beta-lactam antibiotics administration among adult inpatients with a beta-lactam allergy label: incidence, predictors, and outcomes
Authors: Epstein-Rigbi Naama , Ziv Sharon , Bulanenkova Marina , Bouganim Ruth , Tal-Jasper Ruthy , Marchaim Dror
Published: April 2024

Background:

A beta-lactam antibiotics (BLA) allergy label is common, resulting in disadvantageous outcomes due to the usage of second-line antimicrobial agents. Noncontrolled case-series analyses report low rates of hypersensitivity reactions, following intentional/non-intentional BLA challenges among labeled inpatients. The study aims were to explore predictors and outcomes associated with hypersensitivity reactions following BLA challenge among BLA-allergic labeled inpatients.

Methods:

Retrospective cohort study (2019–2020) of adult (≥18 years) inpatients (Shamir Medical Center, Israel), labeled as allergic to ≥1 BLA, who received ≥1 dose/s of BLA during their stay. Independent predictors to develop allergic reactions and the independent associations of allergic reactions with clinical outcomes were queried by logistic and Cox regressions.

Results:

Of 9,670 inpatients (14,088 hospitalizations), 3,570 (37%) were labeled as allergic to ≥1 BLA. Of those, 1,171 (33%) patients received ≥1 BLA. The majority were women (67%), and the mean age was 69.3 ± 19.4 years. Only 30 patients (2.6%) developed a reaction, all mild. Independent predictors to develop an allergic reaction were documented reactions in the past, atopic background, antihistamines administration prior to the BLA challenge, and high risk for cross-reactivity, based on the BLA side chains, between the labeled and the challenged agents. Reaction upon the BLA challenge was not independently associated with any worse outcome.

Conclusions:

Despite the commonality of allergy labeling, and the commonality of BLA administration to labeled inpatients, hypersensitivity reactions were mild and rare. Interventional stewardship strategies for active BLA de-labeling among low-risk patients should be promoted, to improve patients’ and institutional health and fiscal outcomes.
Getting the message right: what are the impacts of counter-serious and organised crime awareness-raising strategies?
Authors: Cheeseman Nic , Peiffer Caryn
Published: April 2024

Counter-serious and organised crime (SOC) strategies often include an awareness-raising element. Such messaging aims to build support for counter-SOC efforts, and intolerance for organised criminal activity. However, a growing body of research suggests that raising awareness to ‘social bads’ like SOC may risk backfiring by encouraging pessimistic attitudes about whether they can be controlled and could even nudge people to agree with populist narratives which argue that political outsiders represent the only hope for tackling systemic problems. A nationally representative survey experiment in Albania was conducted to test, for the first time, the impact of messages about SOC. Typical of counter-SOC messaging in practice, the first message emphasised the harms SOC causes. The second was more positive, highlighting high levels of social disapproval of SOC, a theme that social norms research suggests may be effective. We find that the first message backfires by reducing confidence in law enforcement and encouraging support for populist ideas. The second message is unexpectedly found to also encourage support for a populist sentiment, while having no positive impact on attitudes about law enforcement. This suggests that even positive messaging about ‘social bads’ can risk triggering unwanted responses.
Hallsworth's manifesto through a cultural theory lens
Authors: John Peter
Published: April 2024

Behavioural public policy (BPP) operates within one of four cultural models of public management, an illustration of an influential scheme set out by Christopher Hood. Even though BPP can be fatalist, individualist or egalitarian, so far it has been hierarchicalist. Hallsworth's manifesto is largely an expression of this hierarchicalist form of public management, with all its limitations and contradictions. As the manifesto pays relatively little attention to decentralist and egalitarian approaches, it misses a radical opportunity. Future work on BPP could incorporate entrepreneurial and egalitarian possibilities while recognising the difficulties of moving away from hierarchalism completely. Even though Hood cautions against a ‘public management for all seasons’, it remains a plausible path for the next generation of researchers and practitioners of BPP.
Desingularization of 2D elliptic free-boundary problem with non-autonomous nonlinearity
Authors: Wan Jie
Published: April 2024

In this paper, we consider the existence and limiting behaviour of solutions to a semilinear elliptic equation arising from confined plasma problem in dimension two

\[ \begin{cases} -\Delta u=\lambda k(x)f(u) & \text{in}\ D,\\ u= c & \displaystyle\text{on}\ \partial D,\\ \displaystyle - \int_{\partial D} \frac{\partial u}{\partial \nu}\,{\rm d}s=I, \end{cases} \]

where

$D\subseteq \mathbb {R}^2$

is a smooth bounded domain,

$\nu$

is the outward unit normal to the boundary

$\partial D$

,

$\lambda$

and

$I$

are given constants and

$c$

is an unknown constant. Under some assumptions on

$f$

and

$k$

, we prove that there exists a family of solutions concentrating near strict local minimum points of

$\Gamma (x)=({1}/{2})h(x,\,x)- ({1}/{8\pi })\ln k(x)$

as

$\lambda \to +\infty$

. Here

$h(x,\,x)$

is the Robin function of

$-\Delta$

in

$D$

. The prescribed functions

$f$

and

$k$

can be very general. The result is proved by regarding

$k$

as a

$measure$

and using the vorticity method, that is, solving a maximization problem for vorticity and analysing the asymptotic behaviour of maximizers. Existence of solutions concentrating near several points is also obtained.
Global boundedness and large time behaviour in a higher-dimensional quasilinear chemotaxis system with consumption of chemoattractant
Authors: Zhang Minghua , Mu Chunlai , Yang Hongying
Published: April 2024

This paper deals with the following quasilinear chemotaxis system with consumption of chemoattractant

\[ \left\{\begin{array}{@{}ll} u_t=\Delta u^{m}-\nabla\cdot(u\nabla v),\quad & x\in \Omega,\quad t>0,\\ v_t=\Delta v-uv,\quad & x\in \Omega,\quad t>0\\ \end{array}\right. \]

in a bounded domain

$\Omega \subset \mathbb {R}^N(N=3,\,4,\,5)$

with smooth boundary

$\partial \Omega$

. It is shown that if

$m>\max \{1,\,\frac {3N-2}{2N+2}\}$

, for any reasonably smooth nonnegative initial data, the corresponding no-flux type initial-boundary value problem possesses a globally bounded weak solution. Furthermore, we prove that the solution converges to the spatially homogeneous equilibrium

$(\bar {u}_0,\,0)$

in an appropriate sense as

$t\rightarrow \infty$

, where

$\bar {u}_0=\frac {1}{|\Omega |}\int _\Omega u_0$

. This result not only partly extends the previous global boundedness result in Fan and Jin (J. Math. Phys.58 (2017), 011503) and Wang and Xiang (Z. Angew. Math. Phys.66 (2015), 3159–3179) to

$m>\frac {3N-2}{2N}$

in the case

$N\geq 3$

, but also partly improves the global existence result in Zheng and Wang (Discrete Contin. Dyn. Syst. Ser. B22 (2017), 669–686) to

$m>\frac {3N}{2N+2}$

when

$N\geq 2$

.
Emergent behaviours of a non-abelian quantum synchronisation model over the unitary group
Authors: Kim Dohyun , Kim Jeongho
Published: April 2024

We introduce a new non-abelian quantum synchronisation model over the unitary group, represented as a gradient flow, where state matrices asymptotically converge to a common one up to phase translation. We provide a sufficient framework leading to quantum synchronisation based on Riccati-type differential inequalities. In addition, uniform time-delayed interaction is considered for modelling realistic communication, and we demonstrate that quantum synchronisation is persistent when a small time delay is allowed. Finally, numerical simulation is performed to visualise qualitative behaviours and support theoretical results.
Demobilising Opposition to European Integration: The Principle of Subsidiarity and the Creation of the European Union, 1988–1992
Authors: Jaeschke Victor
Published: April 2024

By analysing new archival evidence, this article reveals how in the late 1980s, the legal principle of subsidiarity came to be seen as a tool for demobilising opposition to further European integration. At the same time, it also became a projection screen for competing visions for Europe's future: while the European Commission saw subsidiarity as an important foundation for a future European federation and the German government as an essential part of a ‘Europe of the regions’, the British government hoped to use it to achieve a renationalisation of the European Community. The French government was much more sceptical towards subsidiarity, pointing to the paradox that subsidiarity actually required a strong central authority to achieve its decentralising ends. The article concludes by arguing that the debate on subsidiarity reveals how ambitious and yet contested European integration had become by the early 1990s.
Polish Adaptation of the Coparenting Relationship	Scale
Authors: Więsyk Sabina , Wojtasiński Marcin , Tużnik Przemysław , Lachowska Bogusława , Feinberg Mark E. , Favez Nicolas
Published: April 2024

Abstract: The Coparenting Relationship Scale (CRS) is a 35-item self-report measure used to assess subjective evaluation of the relationship between parents. Developed and applied in the United States, it was translated and adapted in other countries. The article presents a Polish adaptation of the CRS. The study included 802 respondents (514 mothers, 288 fathers). In comparison to the original 7-factor structure of the original CRS, in our case, we excluded the division of labor factor and achieved satisfactory goodness-of-fit criteria upon the inclusion of the method factor with reverse-worded (RW) items. We also attempted to test measurement invariance by gender and across two cultural contexts: comparing with the USA and Switzerland. In all cases, at least scalar invariance was achieved, allowing for comparisons between the mentioned groups. We also verified construct validity, which allowed us to demonstrate convergent validity when the CRS was correlated with the Enrich Marital Satisfaction Scale and Parental Distress Scale, as well as discriminant validity when the CRS was correlated with the Lie Scale from the Eysenck Personality Questionnaire-Revised. The results of statistical analyses show that the Polish CRS is a valid and reliable measure of the coparenting relationship.
Structural Validity Evidence for the Oxford Utilitarianism Scale Across 15 Languages
Authors: Oshiro Briana , McAuliffe William H. B. , Luong Raymond , Santos Anabela C. , Findor Andrej , Kuzminska Anna O. , Lantian Anthony , Özdoğru Asil A. , Aczel Balazs , Dinić Bojana M. , Chartier Christopher R. , Hidding Jasper , de Grefte Job A. M. , Protzko John , Shaw Mairead , Primbs Maximilian A. , Coles Nicholas A. , Arriaga Patricia , Forscher Patrick S. , Lewis Savannah C. , Nagy Tamás , de Vries Wieteke C. , Jimenez-Leal William , Li Yansong , Flake Jessica Kay
Published: April 2024

Abstract: Background: The Psychological Science Accelerator (PSA) recently completed a large-scale moral psychology study using translated versions of the Oxford Utilitarianism Scale (OUS). However, the translated versions have no validity evidence. Objective: The study investigated the structural validity evidence of the OUS across 15 translated versions and produced version-specific validity reports. Methods: We analyzed OUS data from the PSA, which was collected internationally on a centralized online questionnaire . We also collected qualitative feedback from experts for each translated version. Results: For each version, we produced version-specific psychometric reports which include the following: (1) descriptive item and demographics analyses, (2) factor structure evidence using confirmatory factor analyses, (3) measurement invariance testing across languages using multiple-group confirmatory factor analyses and alignment optimization, and (4) reliability analyses using coefficients α and ω.
When Extreme Drought Becomes Commonplace
Authors: Sidder Aaron
Published: April 2024

As drought becomes a more regular occurrence, a new study looks at the U.S. Drought Monitor, the nation’s preeminent drought classifier, to see how it has reflected climate change since 2000.
Extra Carbon Dioxide Helps Lower Layers of the Amazon Thrive—for Now
Authors: Moutinho Sofia
Published: April 2024

Plants living in the shadows grew faster when exposed to excess carbon dioxide. But this short-term effect could vanish in a high-emission-induced warmer future, making the forest a carbon source.
Dopamine signaling enriched striatal gene set predicts striatal dopamine synthesis and physiological activity in vivo
Authors: Sportelli Leonardo , Eisenberg Daniel P. , Passiatore Roberta , D’Ambrosio Enrico , Antonucci Linda A. , Bettina Jasmine S. , Chen Qiang , Goldman Aaron L. , Gregory Michael D. , Griffiths Kira , Hyde Thomas M. , Kleinman Joel E. , Pardiñas Antonio F. , Parihar Madhur , Popolizio Teresa , Rampino Antonio , Shin Joo Heon , Veronese Mattia , Ulrich William S. , Zink Caroline F. , Bertolino Alessandro , Howes Oliver D. , Berman Karen F. , Weinberger Daniel R. , Pergola Giulio
Published: April 2024

The polygenic architecture of schizophrenia implicates several molecular pathways involved in synaptic function. However, it is unclear how polygenic risk funnels through these pathways to translate into syndromic illness. Using tensor decomposition, we analyze gene co-expression in the caudate nucleus, hippocampus, and dorsolateral prefrontal cortex of post-mortem brain samples from 358 individuals. We identify a set of genes predominantly expressed in the caudate nucleus and associated with both clinical state and genetic risk for schizophrenia that shows dopaminergic selectivity. A higher polygenic risk score for schizophrenia parsed by this set of genes predicts greater dopamine synthesis in the striatum and greater striatal activation during reward anticipation. These results translate dopamine-linked genetic risk variation into in vivo neurochemical and hemodynamic phenotypes in the striatum that have long been implicated in the pathophysiology of schizophrenia.
Oxyresveratrol-β-cyclodextrin mitigates streptozotocin-induced Alzheimer's model cognitive impairment, histone deacetylase activity in rats: in silico & in vivo studies
Authors: Agarwal Tushar , Manandhar Suman , B Harish Kumar , Famurewa Ademola C. , Gurram Prasada Chowdari , Suggala Ramya Shri , Sankhe Runali , Mudgal Jayesh , Pai K. Sreedhara Ranganath
Published: April 2024

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is associated with cognitive deficits and epigenetic deacetylation that can be modulated by natural products. The role of natural oxyresveratrol-β-cyclodextrin (ORV) on cognition and histone deacetylase activity in AD is unclear. Herein, in-silico docking and molecular dynamics simulation analysis determined that oxyresveratrol potentially targets histone deacetylase-2 (HDAC2). We therefore evaluated the in vivo ameliorative effect of ORV against cognitive deficit, cerebral and hippocampal expression of HDAC in experimental AD rats. Intracerebroventricular injection of STZ (3 mg/kg) induced experimental AD and the rats were treated with low dose (200 mg/kg), high dose (400 mg/kg) of ORV and donepezil (10 mg/kg) for 21 days. The STZ-induced AD caused cognitive and behavioural deficits demonstrated by considerable increases in acetylcholinesterase activity and escape latency compared to sham control. The levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) and HDAC activity were significantly increased in AD disease group comparison to the sham. Interestingly, the ORV reversed the cognitive-behavioural deficit and prominently reduced the MDA and HDAC levels comparable to the effect of the standard drug, donepezil. The findings suggest anti-AD role of ORV via antioxidant effect and inhibition of HDAC in the hippocampal and frontal cortical area of rats for AD.
Polyphosphate and tyrosine phosphorylation in the N-terminal domain of the human mitochondrial Lon protease disrupts its functions
Authors: Kunová Nina , Ondrovičová Gabriela , Bauer Jacob A. , Krajčovičová Veronika , Pinkas Matyáš , Stojkovičová Barbora , Havalová Henrieta , Lukáčová Veronika , Kohútová Lenka , Košťan Július , Martináková Lucia , Baráth Peter , Nováček Jiří , Zoll Sebastian , Kereϊche Sami , Kutejová Eva , Pevala Vladimír
Published: April 2024

Phosphorylation plays a crucial role in the regulation of many fundamental cellular processes. Phosphorylation levels are increased in many cancer cells where they may promote changes in mitochondrial homeostasis. Proteomic studies on various types of cancer identified 17 phosphorylation sites within the human ATP-dependent protease Lon, which degrades misfolded, unassembled and oxidatively damaged proteins in mitochondria. Most of these sites were found in Lon’s N-terminal (NTD) and ATPase domains, though little is known about the effects on their function. By combining the biochemical and cryo-electron microscopy studies, we show the effect of Tyr186 and Tyr394 phosphorylations in Lon’s NTD, which greatly reduce all Lon activities without affecting its ability to bind substrates or perturbing its tertiary structure. A substantial reduction in Lon’s activities is also observed in the presence of polyphosphate, whose amount significantly increases in cancer cells. Our study thus provides an insight into the possible fine-tuning of Lon activities in human diseases, which highlights Lon’s importance in maintaining proteostasis in mitochondria.
Low-cost dual-energy CBCT by spectral filtration of a dual focal spot X-ray source
Authors: Li Boyuan , Hu Yuanming , Xu Shuang , Li Bokuan , Inscoe Christina R. , Tyndall Donald A. , Lee Yueh Z. , Lu Jianping , Zhou Otto
Published: April 2024

Dual-energy cone beam computed tomography (DE-CBCT) has been shown to provide more information and improve performance compared to a conventional single energy spectrum CBCT. Here we report a low-cost DE-CBCT by spectral filtration of a carbon nanotube x-ray source array. The x-ray photons from two focal spots were filtered respectively by a low and a high energy filter. Projection images were collected by alternatively activating the two beams while the source array and detector rotated around the object, and were processed by a one-step materials decomposition and reconstruction method. The performance of the DE-CBCT scanner was evaluated by imaging a water-equivalent plastic phantom with inserts containing known densities of calcium or iodine and an anthropomorphic head phantom with dental implants. A mean energy separation of 15.5 keV was achieved at acceptable dose rates and imaging time. Accurate materials quantification was obtained by materials decomposition. Metal artifacts were reduced in the virtual monoenergetic images synthesized at high energies. The results demonstrated the feasibility of high quality DE-CBCT imaging by spectral filtration without using either an energy sensitive detector or rapid high voltage switching.
Correlation between the cationic composition and anionic electrochemical activity of Li2MSeO anti-perovskites
Authors: Gorbunov Mikhail V. , Janson Oleg , Stöber Max , Baran Volodymyr , Mikhailova Daria
Published: April 2024

The ratio of 3d cations M in Li2MSeO (M = Mn, Fe, Co) anti-perovskites defines their battery performance. DFT, operando XRD, and XAS studies show that the redox activity of Se depends on the covalency of the chemical bond between the 3d metal and Se.
Functionalized metal–organic framework modified membranes with ultralong cyclability and superior capacity for zinc/bromine flowless batteries
Authors: Han Dabin , Shin Kyungjae , Kim Hee-Tak , Shanmugam Sangaraju
Published: April 2024

A functionalized metal–organic framework for a Zn/Br2 battery is prepared and contributes to superior high capacity by self-discharge suppression and long cyclability due to uniform Zn deposition even under high depth of charge conditions.
Nonafluorobutyl ether enhancing the stability of fluorobenzene-based diluted high-concentration electrolytes in high-voltage lithium metal batteries
Authors: Wang Xinlan , Zeng Ziqi , Zhang Han , Dong Yixuan , Cheng Shijie , Xie Jia
Published: April 2024

Methyl 1,1,2,2,3,3,4,4,4-nonafluorobutyl ether promotes the formation of a LiF-rich SEI and CEI with less HF, enabling high-voltage LMAs.
A high entropy O3-Na1.0Li0.1Ni0.3Fe0.1Mn0.25Ti0.25O2 cathode with reversible phase transitions and superior electrochemical performances for sodium-ion batteries
Authors: Ghosh Arindam , Hegde Rashmi , Senguttuvan Premkumar
Published: April 2024

A high-entropy oxide cathode-Na1.0Li0.1Ni0.3Fe0.1Mn0.25Ti0.25O2 was developed featuring Li/Ti co-substitution that showcases highly reversible phase transitions, enhanced Na+-ion diffusivity and superior long-term cycling performances.
Thriving in the modern scientific world: perspectives from early career electrochemists
Authors: Dagar Mamta , Amechi Miracle Ozioma , Fortunato Jenelle , Maroo Sonal , Teitsworth Taylor S. , Woodley Christopher P.
Published: April 2024

The modern scientific world is exciting but poses numerous challenges in the form of juggling work–home life, structural barriers for underrepresented minorities, and information overload. Here we discuss ways to overcome these roadblocks and promote growth of individuals as scientists. [Graphical abstract image credit: Photoshop]
Cellular elasticity in cancer: a review of altered biomechanical features
Authors: Radman Bakeel A. , Alhameed Alaa Majeed Mutashar , Shu Guang , Yin Gang , Wang Maonan
Published: April 2024

The behavior of cancer cell elasticity is modulated by biological, chemical, and physical changes, which in turn have the potential to alter cellular elasticity, and this may be an encouraging prediction for the future discovery of cancer therapies.