bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cleavage site-directed antibodies reveal the prion protein in humans is shed by ADAM10 at Y226 and associates with misfolded protein deposits in neurodegenerative diseases
Authors: Song Feizhi , Kovac Valerija , Mohammadi Behnam , Littau Jessica L. , Scharfenberg Franka , Matamoros Angles Andreu , Vanni Ilaria , Shafiq Mohsin , Orge Leonor , Galliciotti Giovanna , Djakkani Salma , Linsenmeier Luise , Černilec Maja , Hartman Katrina , Jung Sebastian , Tatzelt Jörg , Neumann Julia E. , Damme Markus , Tschirner Sarah K. , Lichtenthaler Stefan F. , Ricklefs Franz L. , Sauvigny Thomas , Schmitz Matthias , Zerr Inga , Puig Berta , Tolosa Eva , Ferrer Isidro , Magnus Tim , Rupnik Marjan S. , Sepulveda-Falla Diego , Matschke Jakob , Šmid Lojze M. , Bresjanac Mara , Andreoletti Olivier , Krasemann Susanne , Foliaki Simote T. , Nonno Romolo , Becker-Pauly Christoph , Monzo Cecile , Crozet Carole , Haigh Cathryn L. , Glatzel Markus , Curin Serbec Vladka , Altmeppen Hermann C.
Published: July 2024

Proteolytic cell surface release (‘shedding’) of the prion protein (PrP), a broadly expressed GPI-anchored glycoprotein, by the metalloprotease ADAM10 impacts on neurodegenerative and other diseases in animal and in vitro models. Recent studies employing the latter also suggest shed PrP (sPrP) to be a ligand in intercellular communication and critically involved in PrP-associated physiological tasks. Although expectedly an evolutionary conserved event, and while soluble forms of PrP are present in human tissues and body fluids, for the human body neither proteolytic PrP shedding and its cleavage site nor involvement of ADAM10 or the biological relevance of this process have been demonstrated thus far. In this study, cleavage site prediction and generation (plus detailed characterization) of sPrP-specific antibodies enabled us to identify PrP cleaved at tyrosin 226 as the physiological and apparently strictly ADAM10-dependent shed form in humans. Using cell lines, neural stem cells and brain organoids, we show that shedding of human PrP can be stimulated by PrP-binding ligands without targeting the protease, which may open novel therapeutic perspectives. Site-specific antibodies directed against human sPrP also detect the shed form in brains of cattle, sheep and deer, hence in all most relevant species naturally affected by fatal and transmissible prion diseases. In human and animal prion diseases, but also in patients with Alzheimer`s disease, sPrP relocalizes from a physiological diffuse tissue pattern to intimately associate with extracellular aggregated deposits of misfolded proteins characteristic for the respective pathological condition. Findings and research tools presented here will accelerate novel insight into the roles of PrP shedding (as a process) and sPrP (as a released factor) in neurodegeneration and beyond.
The role of D3-type cyclins is related to cytokinin and the bHLH transcription factor SPATULA in Arabidopsis gynoecium development
Authors: Cerbantez-Bueno Vincent E. , Serwatowska Joanna , Rodríguez-Ramos Carolina , Cruz-Valderrama J. Erik , de Folter Stefan
Published: July 2024

Main conclusion

We studied the D3-type cyclin function during gynoecium development in Arabidopsis and how they are related to the hormone cytokinin and the transcription factor SPATULA.

Growth throughout the life of plants is sustained by cell division and differentiation processes in meristematic tissues. In Arabidopsis, gynoecium development implies a multiphasic process where the tissues required for pollination, fertilization, and seed development form. The Carpel Margin Meristem (CMM) is a mass of undifferentiated cells that gives rise to the gynoecium internal tissues, such as septum, ovules, placenta, funiculus, transmitting tract, style, and stigma. Different genetic and hormonal factors, including cytokinin, control the CMM function. Cytokinin regulates the cell cycle transitions through the activation of cell cycle regulators as cyclin genes. D3-type cyclins are expressed in proliferative tissues, favoring the mitotic cell cycle over the endoreduplication. Though the role of cytokinin in CMM and gynoecium development is highly studied, its specific role in regulating the cell cycle in this tissue remains unclear. Additionally, despite extensive research on the relationship between CYCD3 genes and cytokinin, the regulatory mechanism that connects them remains elusive. Here, we found that D3-type cyclins are expressed in proliferative medial and lateral tissues. Conversely, the depletion of the three CYCD3 genes showed that they are not essential for gynoecium development. However, the addition of exogenous cytokinin showed that they could control the division/differentiation balance in gynoecium internal tissues and outgrowths. Finally, we found that SPATULA can be a mechanistic link between cytokinin and the D3-type cyclins. The data suggest that the role of D3-type cyclins in gynoecium development is related to the cytokinin response, and they might be activated by the transcription factor SPATULA.
Developing a deep learning model for predicting ovarian cancer in Ovarian-Adnexal Reporting and Data System Ultrasound (O-RADS US) Category 4 lesions: A multicenter study
Authors: Xie Wenting , Lin Wenjie , Li Ping , Lai Hongwei , Wang Zhilan , Liu Peizhong , Huang Yijun , Liu Yao , Tang Lina , Lyu Guorong
Published: July 2024

Purpose

To develop a deep learning (DL) model for differentiating between benign and malignant ovarian tumors of Ovarian-Adnexal Reporting and Data System Ultrasound (O-RADS US) Category 4 lesions, and validate its diagnostic performance.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of 1619 US images obtained from three centers from December 2014 to March 2023. DeepLabV3 and YOLOv8 were jointly used to segment, classify, and detect ovarian tumors. Precision and recall and area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) were employed to assess the model performance.

Results

A total of 519 patients (including 269 benign and 250 malignant masses) were enrolled in the study. The number of women included in the training, validation, and test cohorts was 426, 46, and 47, respectively. The detection models exhibited an average precision of 98.68% (95% CI: 0.95–0.99) for benign masses and 96.23% (95% CI: 0.92–0.98) for malignant masses. Moreover, in the training set, the AUC was 0.96 (95% CI: 0.94–0.97), whereas in the validation set, the AUC was 0.93(95% CI: 0.89–0.94) and 0.95 (95% CI: 0.91–0.96) in the test set. The sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, positive predictive value, and negative predictive values for the training set were 0.943,0.957,0.951,0.966, and 0.936, respectively, whereas those for the validation set were 0.905,0.935, 0.935,0.919, and 0.931, respectively. In addition, the sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value for the test set were 0.925, 0.955, 0.941, 0.956, and 0.927, respectively.

Conclusion

The constructed DL model exhibited high diagnostic performance in distinguishing benign and malignant ovarian tumors in O-RADS US category 4 lesions.
Cortical Activation during Swallowing Exercise Tasks: an fNIRS Pilot Study
Authors: Chua Denise Mae N. , Chan Karen Man-Kei
Published: July 2024

This pilot study used functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) to examine brain activity in selected regions of the left motor and sensory cortex while doing swallowing-related tasks. Specifically, differences in cortical activation during normal saliva swallows, effortful swallows, and tongue pressing were investigated. Nine healthy, right-handed adults (5 female, 4 male; Age: 22–30 years) were recruited. The tasks included were (1) normal saliva swallowing, (2) effortful saliva swallowing, and (3) lingual pressing against the palate. Each task was completed three times in a block, for a total of five blocks. Blocks were randomized and presented with set time intervals using PsychoPy. Motor activity was highest during effortful swallows, followed by normal swallows, and lingual presses. Activation in the sensory region was not significantly different across tasks; however, effortful swallows elicited the highest mean peak activation. Our findings suggest that fNIRS can be a viable imaging method used to examine differences in cortical activity in the context of swallowing. Its applicability in future dysphagia research should be explored.
Subtotal laparoscopic cholecystectomy versus conversion to open as a bailout procedure: a cohort study
Authors: Ramírez-Giraldo Camilo , Monroy Danny Conde , Isaza-Restrepo Andrés , Ayala Daniela , González-Tamayo Juliana , Vargas-Patiño Ana Maria , Trujillo-Guerrero Luisa , Van-Londoño Isabella , Rojas-López Susana
Published: July 2024

Background

The aim of this study is to evaluate morbidity and mortality in patients taken to conversion to open procedure (CO) and subtotal laparoscopic cholecystectomy (SLC) as bailout procedures when performing difficult laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

Method

This observational cohort study retrospectively analyzed patients taken to SLC or CO as bailout surgery during difficult laparoscopic cholecystectomy between 2014 and 2022. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression models were used to identify prognostic factors for morbimortality.

Results

A total of 675 patients were included. Of the 675 patients (mean [SD] age 63.85 ± 16.00 years; 390 [57.7%] male) included in the analysis, 452 (67%) underwent CO and 223 (33%) underwent SLC. Overall, neither procedure had an increased risk of major complications (89 [19.69%] vs 35 [15.69%] P.207). However, CO had an increased risk of bile duct injury (18 [3.98] vs 1 [0.44] P.009), bleeding (mean [SD] 165.43 ± 368.57 vs 43.25 ± 123.42 P < .001), intestinal injury (20 [4.42%] vs 0 [0.00] P.001), and wound infection (18 [3.98%] vs 2 [0.89%] P.026), while SLC had a higher risk of bile leak (15 [3.31] vs 16 [7.17] P.024). On the multivariable analysis, Charlson comorbidity index (odds ratio [OR], 1.20; CI95%, 1.01–1.42), use of anticoagulant agents (OR, 2.56; CI95%, 1.21–5.44), classification of severity of cholecystitis grade III (OR, 2.96; CI95%, 1.48–5.94), and emergency admission (OR, 6.07; CI95%, 1.33–27.74) were associated with presenting major complications.

Conclusions

SLC was less associated with complications; however, there is scant evidence on its long-term outcomes. Further research is needed on SLC to establish if it is the safest in the long-term as a bailout procedure.
Spontaneous emergence of deformation bands in single-crystal plasticity simulations at small strain
Authors: Ryś M. , Kursa M. , Petryk H.
Published: July 2024

In metal single crystals, the observed formation of deformation banding pattern has been explained by greater latent hardening of slip systems than their self-hardening, which promotes spatial segregation of plastic slips and lamination towards single-slip domains. Numerical studies focusing on the formation of deformation bands usually involved initial imperfections, boundary-induced heterogeneity, or the postulate of minimal global energy expenditure which additionally promoted non-uniformity of deformation. This article analyses the case when no such mechanism enforcing locally non-uniform deformation is implemented in the finite element (FE) method, while the global system of equations of incremental equilibrium is solved in a standard way. The new finding in this paper is that the deformation banding pattern can appear spontaneously in FE simulations of homogeneous single crystals even in the absence of any mechanism favouring deformation banding in the numerical code. This has been demonstrated in several examples in the small strain formalism using a plane-strain model in which the twelve fcc slip systems are reduced to three effective plastic slip mechanisms. Incremental slips are determined at the Gauss-point level either by incremental work minimization in the rate-independent case or by rate-dependent regularization. In the rate-independent approach, the trust-region algorithm is developed for the selection of active slip systems with the help of the augmented Lagrangian method. Conditions under which a banding pattern appears spontaneously or is suppressed are discussed. In particular, a critical rate sensitivity exponent is identified.
Immunity in digestive diseases: new drugs for inflammatory bowel disease treatment—insights from Phase II and III trials
Authors: Massironi Sara , Furfaro Federica , Bencardino Sarah , Allocca Mariangela , Danese Silvio
Published: July 2024

Background

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), encompassing Crohn's disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC), continues to challenge treatment paradigms. Advancements in therapeutic options have been have been driven by Phase 2 and 3 clinical trials of new drug classes, particularly sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) modulators and interleukin-23 (IL-23) inhibitors.

Methods

This review synthesizes findings from Phase 2 and 3 clinical trials conducted up to early 2024, focusing on the impact of S1P modulators and IL-23 inhibitors on IBD management. Drugs such as ozanimod, etrasimod, risankizumab, mirikizumab, guselkumab, and brasikumab were evaluated for their efficacy and safety profiles.

Results

S1P modulators, such as ozanimod and etrasimod, effectively regulate immune cell trafficking to reduce inflammation and several trials highlight their clinical effectiveness in both inducing and maintaining remission in IBD, highlighting its long-term safety and sustained therapeutic effects. Additionally, IL-23 inhibitors including risankizumab, mirikizumab, and guselkumab, which disrupt key inflammatory cytokine pathways, have already shown significant effectiveness in inducing and maintaining remission in both CD and UC, with favorable safety profiles across multiple studies, suggesting their potential as critical components in managing IBD.

Conclusions

The clinical trials indicate that both S1P modulators and IL-23 inhibitors offer promising therapeutic benefits and maintain strong safety profiles, positioning them as potential cornerstone treatments for IBD. Despite these advancements, further exploration into long-term safety and the development of personalized treatment strategies is essential for maximizing clinical outcomes.
A new colorimetric lactate biosensor based on CUPRAC reagent using binary enzyme (lactate-pyruvate oxidases)-immobilized silanized magnetite nanoparticles
Authors: Ayaz Selen , Erşan Teslime , Dilgin Yusuf , Apak Reşat
Published: July 2024

A novel optical lactate biosensor is presented that utilizes a colorimetric interaction between H2O2 liberated by a binary enzymatic reaction and bis(neocuproine)copper(II) complex ([Cu(Nc)2]2+) known as CUPRAC (cupric reducing antioxidant capacity) reagent. In the first step, lactate oxidase (LOx) and pyruvate oxidase (POx) were separately immobilized on silanized magnetite nanoparticles (SiO2@Fe3O4 NPs), and thus, 2 mol of H2O2 was released per 1 mol of the substrate due to a sequential enzymatic reaction of the mixture of LOx-SiO2@Fe3O4 and POx-SiO2@Fe3O4 NPs with lactate and pyruvate, respectively. In the second step, the absorbance at 450 nm of the yellow-orange [Cu(Nc)2]+ complex formed through the color reaction of enzymatically produced H2O2 with [Cu(Nc)2]2+ was recorded. The results indicate that the developed colorimetric binary enzymatic biosensor exhibits a broad linear range of response between 0.5 and 50.0 µM for lactate under optimal conditions with a detection limit of 0.17 µM. The fabricated biosensor did not respond to other saccharides, while the positive interferences of certain reducing compounds such as dopamine, ascorbic acid, and uric acid were minimized through their oxidative removal with a pre-oxidant (NaBiO3) before enzymatic and colorimetric reactions. The fabricated optical biosensor was applied to various samples such as artificial blood, artificial/real sweat, and cow milk. The high recovery values (close to 100%) achieved for lactate-spiked samples indicate an acceptable accuracy of this colorimetric biosensor in the determination of lactate in real samples. Due to the increase in H2O2 production with the bienzymatic lactate sensor, the proposed method displays double-fold sensitivity relative to monoenzymatic biosensors and involves a neat color reaction with cupric-neocuproine having a clear stoichiometry as opposed to the rather indefinite stoichiometry of analogous redox dye methods.

Graphical Abstract
Use of intensive care, intracranial pressure monitoring, and external ventricular drainage devises in patients with bacterial meningitis, a cohort study
Authors: Tetens Malte M. , Roed Casper , Bodilsen Jacob , Omland Lars H. , Mens Helene , Lebech Anne-Mette , Obel Niels , Møller Kirsten , Rasmussen Rune , Overgaard-Steensen Christian , Perner Anders , Ziebell Morten , Andersen Åse B.
Published: July 2024

Background

Bacterial meningitis can cause a life-threatening increase in intracranial pressure (ICP). ICP-targeted treatment including an ICP monitoring device and external ventricular drainage (EVD) may improve outcomes but is also associated with the risk of complications. The frequency of use and complications related to ICP monitoring devices and EVDs among patients with bacterial meningitis remain unknown. We aimed to investigate the use of ICP monitoring devices and EVDs in patients with bacterial meningitis including frequency of increased ICP, drainage of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), and complications associated with the insertion of ICP monitoring and external ventricular drain (EVD) in patients with bacterial meningitis.

Method

In a single-center prospective cohort study (2017–2021), we examined the frequency of use and complications of ICP-monitoring devices and EVDs in adult patients with bacterial meningitis.

Results

We identified 108 patients with bacterial meningitis admitted during the study period. Of these, 60 were admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU), and 47 received an intracranial device (only ICP monitoring device N = 16; EVD N = 31). An ICP > 20 mmHg was observed in 8 patients at insertion, and in 21 patients (44%) at any time in the ICU. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) was drained in 24 cases (51%). Severe complications (intracranial hemorrhage) related to the device occurred in two patients, but one had a relative contraindication to receiving a device.

Conclusions

Approximately half of the patients with bacterial meningitis needed intensive care and 47 had an intracranial device inserted. While some had conservatively correctable ICP, the majority needed CSF drainage. However, two patients experienced serious adverse events related to the device, potentially contributing to death. Our study highlights that the incremental value of ICP measurement and EVD in managing of bacterial meningitis requires further research.
Endpoint estimates for riesz transform on manifolds with ends
Authors: He Dangyang
Published: July 2024

We consider a class of non-doubling manifolds

$$\mathcal {M}$$

M

consisting of finite many “Euclidean” ends, where the Euclidean dimensions at infinity are not necessarily all the same. In [17], Hassell and Sikora proved that the Riesz transform on

$$\mathcal {M}$$

M

is of weak type (1, 1), bounded on

$$L^{p}$$

L
p

if and only if

$$1<p<n_*$$

1
<
p
<

n

∗

, where

$$n_* = \min _k n_k$$

n

∗

=

min
k

n
k

. In this note, we complete the picture by giving an endpoint estimate: Riesz transform is bounded on Lorentz space

$$L^{n_*,1}$$

L

n

∗

,
1

and unbounded from

$$L^{n_*,p}\rightarrow L^{n_*,q}$$

L

n

∗

,
p

→

L

n

∗

,
q

for all

$$1<p<\infty $$

1
<
p
<
∞

and

$$p\le q\le \infty $$

p
≤
q
≤
∞

.
Summary of the National Cancer Institute 2023 Virtual Workshop on Medical Image De-identification—Part 2: Pathology Whole Slide Image De-identification, De-facing, the Role of AI in Image De-identification, and the NCI MIDI Datasets and Pipeline
Authors: Clunie David , Taylor Adam , Bisson Tom , Gutman David , Xiao Ying , Schwarz Christopher G. , Greve Douglas , Gichoya Judy , Shih George , Kline Adrienne , Kopchick Ben , Farahani Keyvan
Published: July 2024

De-identification of medical images intended for research is a core requirement for data sharing initiatives, particularly as the demand for data for artificial intelligence (AI) applications grows. The Center for Biomedical Informatics and Information Technology (CBIIT) of the United States National Cancer Institute (NCI) convened a two half-day virtual workshop with the intent of summarizing the state of the art in de-identification technology and processes and exploring interesting aspects of the subject. This paper summarizes the highlights of the second day of the workshop, the recordings and presentations of which are publicly available for review. The topics covered included pathology whole slide image de-identification, de-facing, the role of AI in image de-identification, and the NCI Medical Image De-Identification Initiative (MIDI) datasets and pipeline.
Minimal Detectable Bone Fracture Gaps in CT Images and Digital Three-Dimensional (3D) Radii Models
Authors: Bittner-Frank Martin , Strassl Andreas , Unger Ewald , Hirtler Lena , Eckhart Barbara , Koenigshofer Markus , Stoegner Alexander , Staats Kevin , Kainberger Franz , Windhager Reinhard , Moscato Francesco , Benca Emir
Published: July 2024

Knowledge of the minimal detectable bone fracture gap is essential in three-dimensional (3D) models, particularly in pre-operative planning of osteosynthesis to avoid overlooking gaps. In this study, defined incisions and bony displacements ranging from 100 to 400 µm were created in diaphyseal radii in 20 paired forearm specimens and verified with light microscopy. The specimens were scanned utilizing different computed tomography (CT) technologies/scanners, specimen positionings, scan protocols, image segmentations, and processing protocols. Inter- and intra-operator variabilities were reported as coefficient kappa. In CT images, fracture gaps of 100 µm and bone lamellae of 300 µm and 400 µm width were identified at a rate of 80 to 100%, respectively, independent of the investigated settings. In contrast, only 400µm incisions and bony displacements were visible in digital 3D models, with detection rates dependent on CT technology, image segmentation, and post-processing algorithm. 3D bone models based on state-of-the-art CT imaging can reliably visualize clinically relevant bone fracture gap sizes. However, verification of fractures to be surgically addressed should be verified with the original CT image series.

Graphical Abstract
Free disposal hull models of multicomponent technologies
Authors: Papaioannou Grammatoula , Podinovski Victor V.
Published: July 2024

Free disposal hull (FDH) is a nonparametric model of production technology based on the single assumption of free disposability of all inputs and outputs. In this paper, we consider multicomponent production technologies in which every decision making unit (DMU) consists of several parallel component processes that can in principle operate independently of each other, provided they have sufficient resources. An example is universities viewed as DMUs, with their departments or groups of departments viewed as component processes. Each component process uses its own set of inputs and an unknown part of the shared inputs in order to produce its own set of outputs and an unknown part of the shared outputs. We allow combinations of component processes taken from different DMUs in order to construct new hypothetical DMUs, and refer to the resulting model of technology as the multicomponent FDH (MFDH) model. We further develop a larger, and mathematically nontrivial, variant of MFDH for the case in which we can specify certain bounds on the proportions in which shared inputs and outputs are allocated to component processes. We use an illustrative example in the context of universities to demonstrate the increasing discriminatory power of the new MFDH models over the standard FDH models in the multicomponent setting.
Mental Health Evaluation of Younger and Older Adolescents Referred to the Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria in Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Authors: de Rooy Frédérique B. B. , Arnoldussen Marijn , van der Miesen Anna I. R. , Steensma Thomas D. , Kreukels Baudewijntje P. C. , Popma Arne , de Vries Annelou L. C.
Published: July 2024

The present study aimed to investigate whether differences exist between younger and older presenting adolescents at the Center of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria regarding psychological functioning and autistic traits. A total of 1487 consecutively assessed adolescents between 2000 and 2018 were divided in younger presenters (age ≤ 13.9 years) and older presenters (age ≥ 14 years). Of younger presenters, 227 (41.1%) were assigned male at birth and 325 (58.9%) assigned female at birth. In older presenters, 279 (29.8%) were assigned male at birth and 656 (70.2%) assigned female at birth. Behavioral and emotional problems were assessed with the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL) and the Youth Self-Report (YSR). For autism traits, the Social Responsiveness Scale (SRS) was used. Compared to younger presenters, on both the CBCL and YSR older presenters had higher Total Problem (β = 1.75, p = .005, CI 0.53–2.97, R2 = .04 and β = 4.20, p < .001, CI 2.99–5.40, R2 = .07, respectively) and Internalizing Problem (β = 4.43, p < .001, CI 3.13–5.74, R2 = .06 and β = 6.69, p < .001, CI 5.31–8.07, R2 = .12, respectively) scores. Regarding autistic traits, a higher mean SRS total score was found in older presenting assigned males at birth (β = 4.55, p = .036, CI 0.30–8.81, R2 = .34). In assigned females at birth, no statistically significant difference between older and younger presenters was found in mean SRS total score (β = 1.19, p = .063, CI − 0.07 to 2.45, R2 = .39). Differences in mental health exist between younger and older presenting adolescents and call for an individualized approach in the clinical care of transgender adolescents.
Dissolved organic matter released from beach wrack is source-specific and molecularly highly diverse
Authors: Waska Hannelore , Banko-Kubis Hanne M.
Published: July 2024

Beach wrack is an important supplier of nutrients and organic matter to sandy beach ecosystems and underlying subterranean estuaries (STEs), producing metabolic hotspots in these otherwise organic carbon- and nutrient-poor environments. To assess the impact of beach wrack type (e.g., marine, terrestrial, plant, animal) and environmental settings (e.g., tidal inundation, precipitation, and solar irradiation) on nutrient and dissolved organic matter (DOM) release, a series of leaching experiments was conducted. Quantities of leached nutrients and dissolved organic carbon (DOC) were determined, and DOM molecular composition was investigated using Fourier-transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry (FT-ICR-MS). Millimolar—to molar amounts of DOC and dissolved nitrogen were released from the beach cast per kg dry weight, with type of wrack and leaching medium (fresh- vs. saltwater) exerting the biggest influences. Exemplary for animal cast, jellyfish leached up to two 100-fold more, mostly organic, nitrogen compared to all other beach wrack types. FT-ICR-MS data of solid-phase extracted DOM indicated that beach wrack releases compounds with putative mono- and oligosaccharide-, amino acid- and vitamin-type molecular formulae, which likely serve as valuable substrate for heterotrophic microorganisms. DOM from the brown seaweed Fucus sp. was more aromatic than seawater DOM and even beach wrack of terrestrial origin, probably from structural components and secondary metabolites such as phlorotannins. We conclude that DOM and nutrient release from beach wrack strongly depends on wrack type and leaching medium, may obscure molecular provenance proxies (e.g., terrestrial indices), and adds a nutritional boost to infiltrating sea- and rainwater which likely impact microbial respiration rates in the STE.
Teacher-child Discourse in Vietnamese Preschool Classrooms: An Exploratory Case Study of Teachers’ Questions and Statements in the Planned Science Activity
Authors: Dinh Hang Thi-Thu , Nakatsubo Fuminori
Published: July 2024

The quality of teacher-child discourse affects children’s development and learning. Our study aims to explore teacher-child discourse during planned science activities (PSAs) in Vietnamese preschools. This research is essential to understanding the reasons behind Vietnamese children’s low level of scientific skills and to exploring the dynamics of discourse in an Asian context. We conducted a case study to describe and understand the teacher-child discourse during PSAs. The study involved eight PSA sessions in four classes of three to four-year-old in Da Nang, Vietnam. We found that teachers tended to make statements more often than ask questions. When they did ask, they preferred using closed questions that did not require much of a response from children. Open questions were used sparingly, even though they are crucial for promoting children’s cognitive thinking and literacy. Teachers also made use of rhetorical questions that did not require any answer. This has led to mostly non-interactive classes where students remain passive learners. To improve the quality of teacher-child discourse, we suggest providing teacher training on encouraging children to participate and asking more engaging questions.
Can China's energy policies achieve the "dual carbon" goal? A multi-dimensional analysis based on policy text tools
Authors: Zhu Yiping , Hu Yang , Zhu Yi
Published: July 2024

The continuous increase in global temperatures and frequency of extreme weather events underscore the urgency of achieving "dual carbon" goals. Systematically examining the textual characteristics of energy policies under the "dual carbon" framework, synthesizing the implementation pathways of "dual carbon" initiatives contribute to enhancing comprehension, execution, and optimisation of these policies. This study selecting 409 energy policies under the "dual carbon" goals issued by the central government, the State Council, and ministries from 1992 to 2022 as samples, using policy econometrics and content analysis methods, external characteristics of energy policies including publication time, publication type, and publication subject were analysed. Multidimensional content analysis was conducted for policy tools, objectives, and participants. The implementation path of the "dual carbon" goals was summarised. The study found that China's energy policy under "dual carbon" target has undergone four development stages before and after the release of the energy policy, and energy policy system has been continuously supplemented and improved. Various energy policy tools, diverse policy participants, and policy objectives are of concern and focus. From the "tool-subject-target" perspective, six paths for the implementation of "double carbon" targets in China's energy field are summarised. The energy policy under the "dual carbon" goal has problems such as lack of laws and regulations, over-use of environmental policy tools, uneven distribution in the internal segmentation of policy tools, insufficient involvement of market players and the public, and insufficient attention to the reform of energy systems and mechanisms and the goal of establishing energy-saving and low-carbon concepts.
Blame and praise: responsibility attribution patterns in decision chains
Authors: Bhatia Deepti , Fischbacher Urs , Hausfeld Jan , Stumpf Regina
Published: July 2024

How do people attribute responsibility when an outcome is not caused by an individual but results from a decision chain involving several people? We study this question in an experiment, in which five voters sequentially decide on how to distribute money between them and five recipients. The recipients can reward or punish each voter, which we use as measures of responsibility attribution. In the aggregate, we find that responsibility is attributed mostly according to the voters’ choices and the pivotality of the decision, but not for being the initial voter. On the individual level, we find substantial heterogeneity with three overall patterns: Little to no responsibility attribution, pivotality-driven, and focus on choices. These patterns are similar when praising voters for good outcomes and blaming voters for bad outcomes.
The strongly robust simplicial complex of monomial curves
Authors: Kosta Dimitra , Thoma Apostolos , Vladoiu Marius
Published: July 2024

To every simple toric ideal $$I_T$$

I
T

one can associate the strongly robust simplicial complex $$\Delta _T$$

Δ
T

, which determines the strongly robust property for all ideals that have $$I_T$$

I
T

as their bouquet ideal. We show that for the simple toric ideals of monomial curves in $$\mathbb {A}^{s}$$

A

s

, the strongly robust simplicial complex $$\Delta _T$$

Δ
T

is either $$\{\emptyset \}$$

{
∅
}

or contains exactly one 0-dimensional face. In the case of monomial curves in $$\mathbb {A}^{3}$$

A

3

, the strongly robust simplicial complex $$\Delta _T$$

Δ
T

contains one 0-dimensional face if and only if the toric ideal $$I_T$$

I
T

is a complete intersection ideal with exactly two Betti degrees. Finally, we provide a construction to produce infinitely many strongly robust ideals with bouquet ideal the ideal of a monomial curve and show that they are all produced this way.
Privacy’s Sky-High Battle: The Use of Unmanned Aircraft Systems for Law Enforcement in the European Union
Authors: Kurtpınar E. Öykü
Published: July 2024

Benefiting from the rapid advancements in Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) technology with enhanced tracking and data collection capabilities, law enforcement authorities re-discovered air as a dimension where state power can be exercised in a more affordable, accessible, and compact way. On the other hand, during law enforcement operations, UAS can collect various types of data that can be personal or sensitive, threatening the right to privacy and data protection of the data subjects. Risks include challenges related to data security, bulk data collection, the diminished transparency and fairness resulting from the inconspicuous nature of UAS, as well as ethical concerns intertwined with privacy and data protection. Upon examination of the legal framework including the General Data Protection Regulation the Law Enforcement Directive, various Aviation rules, and the new proposal for the Artificial Intelligence Act, it becomes apparent that the EU legal framework’s adequacy in safeguarding privacy and data protection against law enforcement use of UAS is context-dependent, varying across use cases. The current framework lacks clarity, leading to arbitrary application and limited protection for data subjects. Enforcement of safeguards is insufficient, and the Aviation Regulations, applicable to law enforcement UAS, require member states' opt-in, which has not occurred as of the authors’ knowledge. The Artificial Intelligence Act addresses UAS operations but focuses on market risks rather than obligations imposed on law enforcement authorities. Consequently, the existing framework is rendered inadequate for medium to high-risk law enforcement operations, leaving individuals vulnerable and insufficiently protected against intrusive UAS surveillance. Rectifying this involves addressing the enforcement gap and making the necessary amendments to relevant regulatory aspects. Additionally, the implementation of specific technical measures and steps to foster effective cooperation among stakeholders in UAS deployment for law enforcement is imperative.
Multi-Encoder Spatio-Temporal Feature Fusion Network for Electric Vehicle Charging Load Prediction
Authors: Chen Yufan , Wang Mengqin , Wei Yanling , Huang Xueliang , Gao Shan
Published: July 2024

Electric vehicles (EVs) have been initiated as a preference for decarbonizing road transport. Accurate charging load prediction is essential for the construction of EV charging facilities systematically and for the coordination of EV energy demand with the requisite peak power supply. It is noted that the charging load of EVs exhibits high complexity and randomness due to temporal and spatial uncertainties. Therefore, this paper proposes a SEDformer-based charging road prediction method to capture the spatio-temporal characteristics of charging load data. As a deep learning model, SEDformer comprises multiple encoders and a single decoder. In particular, the proposed model includes a Temporal Encoder Block based on the self-attention mechanism and a Spatial Encoder Block based on the channel attention mechanism with sequence decomposition, followed by an aggregated decoder for information fusion. It is shown that the proposed method outperforms various baseline models on a real-world dataset from Palo Alto, U.S., demonstrating its superiority in addressing spatio-temporal data-driven load forecasting problems.
Tuning the structural, optical, and dielectric properties of europium-doped barium titanate ceramics
Authors: Padalia Diwakar , Kumar Umesh , Bhandari Prabhakar , Dalal Jasvir , Ranakoti Lalit , Singh Tej
Published: July 2024

This study explores the optical and dielectric properties of pure and europium-doped barium titanate ceramics with formula Ba1−3x/2EuxTiO3 ($$x=0,0.005, 0.015\text{ and }0.025$$

x
=
0
,
0.005
,
0.015

and

0.025

). The materials were synthesized using the solid-state reaction method. The influence of Eu + 3 ion incorporation on the crystal structure was examined using XRD, which indicated the formation of a cubic phase. Lattice parameter measurements showed excellent agreement with various theoretical models for predicting the lattice constant, with an average error of only 0.20%. UV–visible spectroscopy analysis is utilized to investigate optical characteristics, revealing a decrease in the optical band gap from 2.65 to 2.77 eV post-Eu doping, which is notably lower than the bulk barium titanate value of 3.2 eV. Materials with smaller band gaps are more suited for optoelectronic applications like photodetectors and light-emitting diodes (LEDs). The dielectric response of europium-doped barium titanate was studied across a frequency range of 1 kHz to 2 MHz and a temperature range of 77 to 300 K, showing remarkable stability. The frequency-dependent dielectric analysis revealed that the dielectric constant initially increased with increasing doping concentration, but decreased at higher concentrations. These results suggest that europium-doped barium titanate holds significant promise for future electronic device applications due to its enhanced optical and dielectric properties.
When the Dark Employee Takes an Irrational Turn: Exploring the Intersection of Dark Personality Traits and Work-Related Beliefs
Authors: Čopková Radka
Published: July 2024

An individual’s disposition towards work is influenced by various factors, including cognitive perception of reality. The attitudes individuals hold towards work are not always based on rational thinking and are also influenced by personality traits. Current research findings suggest that personality traits predict irrational beliefs, which in turn lead to different forms of maladjustment. These personality traits, commonly referred to as the Dark Triad, encompass Machiavellianism, narcissism, and psychopathy. These traits exhibit several shared characteristics with workaholism, a condition associated with irrational beliefs pertaining to work performance. This study aimed to explore the associations between irrational beliefs regarding work and the aversive personality traits. The results indicated a positive correlation between Machiavellianism and work-related irrational beliefs, particularly in relation to failure and control. Narcissism exhibited a positive association with co-workers’ approval. Psychopathy demonstrated a significant positive correlation with control and a negative correlation with performance demands. Regression models were employed to explain the variance in work-related irrational beliefs, ranging from 5.4 to 8.3%. This research builds upon previous studies that have examined workaholism, irrational beliefs, and personality traits, mostly Big Five. By linking the Dark Triad to specific irrational beliefs about work, this research contributes to a deeper understanding of how detrimental personality traits can influence workplace dynamics and individual work attitudes, extending beyond the broader categories typically studied under the Big Five personality traits. This insight is valuable for developing targeted interventions to address and mitigate the impact of these traits in professional settings.
Aggregation behaviour of radiolytically degraded diglycolamide based solvent system
Authors: Parvathy N. , Ravi Jammu , Desigan N. , Venkatesan K. A.
Published: July 2024

The 0.1 M TODGA + 0.2 M DOHyA/n-DD phase was irradiated to various absorbed dose levels and the extraction behaviour of nitric acid and Nd(III) in the irradiated organic phases were studied. The organic phase was then subjected to dynamic light scattering studies to understand the aggregation behaviour in the organic phase. The results showed that the polar degradation products formed in the organic phase decreased the aggregation, while the higher homologue of n-DD enhanced aggregation.
Vision transformer and CNN-based skin lesion analysis: classification of monkeypox
Authors: Yolcu Oztel Gozde
Published: July 2024

Monkeypox is an important health problem. Rapid diagnosis of monkeypox skin lesions and emergency isolation when necessary is essential. Also, some skin lesions, such as melanoma, can be fatal and must be rapidly distinguished. However, in some cases, it is difficult to distinguish the lesions visually. Methods such as dermoscopy, high-resolution ultrasound imaging, etc. can be used for better observation. But these methods are often based on qualitative analysis, subjective and time-consuming. Therefore, in this study, a quantitative and objective classification tool has been developed to assist dermatologists and scientists. The proposed system classifies seven skin lesions, including monkeypox. A popular approach Vision Transformer and some popular deep learning convolutional networks have been trained with the transfer learning approach and all results have been compared. Then, the models that show the best accuracy score have been combined to make the final prediction using bagging-ensemble learning. The proposed ensemble-based system produced 81.91% Accuracy, 65.94% Jaccard, 87.16% Precision, 74.12% Recall, and 78.16% Fscore values. In terms of different criteria metrics, the system produced competitive or even better results than the literature.
Distribution Clearance: Significance and Underlying Mechanisms
Authors: Weiss Michael
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Evaluation of distribution kinetics is a neglected aspect of pharmacokinetics. This study examines the utility of the model-independent parameter whole body distribution clearance (CLD) in this respect.

Methods

Since mammillary compartmental models are widely used, CLD was calculated in terms of parameters of this model for 15 drugs. The underlying distribution processes were explored by assessment of relationships to pharmacokinetic parameters and covariates.

Results

The model-independence of the definition of the parameter CLD allowed a comparison of distributional properties of different drugs and provided physiological insight. Significant changes in CLD were observed as a result of drug-drug interactions, transporter polymorphisms and a diseased state.

Conclusion

Total distribution clearance CLD is a useful parameter to evaluate distribution kinetics of drugs. Its estimation as an adjunct to the model-independent parameters clearance and steady-state volume of distribution is advocated.
Risk of venous thromboembolism in relation to high physical activity level in men over 27 year follow up
Authors: Wändell P. , Enarsson M. A. , Feldreich T. , Lind L. , Ärnlöv J. , Carlsson A. C.
Published: July 2024

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is the third most common type of cardiovascular disease. An association between high level of physical activity (PA) and the onset of VTE has been found in some, but not all previous studies. We aim to study the association between PA-level and VTE in a cohort of men with updated data on PA levels at four occasions. We used data from the Uppsala Longitudinal Study of Adult Men (ULSAM) study initiated in 1970, a study of men at age 50 years (n = 2,294 at baseline) examined on leisure time PA by questionnaire and traditional cardiovascular risk factors. Examinations were repeated at ages 60, 70, and 77, and follow-up was completed after a median time of 33 years. Cox regression analysis with hazard ratios (HRs) using updated covariates for PA and risk factors was performed on the association of PA levels with incident VTE, with adjustments for established cardiovascular risk factors (systolic blood pressure, LDL- and HDL-cholesterol, BMI, diabetes, and smoking). Totally 186 men experienced a VTE during follow-up of 68,263 person-years at risk. Individuals with the highest PA level had an increased relative risk of VTE, adjusted HR, 2.22 (95% CI 1.05–4.67), when compared to individuals with the lowest level of PA. In this cohort of men with a follow-up of 27 years, the risk of VTE was increased at the highest PA level. Findings indicate that there could be an increased VTE risk with higher PA level including strenuous activities.

Graphical Abstract
Analysis of organochlorines and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons designed for pollutant biomonitoring in three seabird matrices
Authors: Michel Lucie , Oró-Nolla Bernat , Dell’Omo Giacomo , Quillfeldt Petra , Lacorte Sílvia
Published: July 2024

Pollutant biomonitoring demands analytical methods to cover a wide range of target compounds, work with minimal sample amounts, and apply least invasive and reproducible sampling procedures. We developed a method to analyse 68 bioaccumulative organic pollutants in three seabird matrices: plasma, liver, and stomach oil, representing different exposure phases. Extraction efficiency was assessed based on recoveries of spiked surrogate samples, then the method was applied to environmental samples collected from Scopoli’s shearwater (Calonectris diomedea). Extraction was performed in an ultrasonic bath, purification with Florisil cartridges (5 g, 20 mL), and analysis by GC–Orbitrap–MS. Quality controls at 5 ng yielded satisfactory recoveries (80–120%) although signal intensification was found for some compounds. The method permitted the detection of 28 targeted pollutants in the environmental samples. The mean sum of organic pollutants was 4.25 ± 4.83 ng/g in plasma, 1634 ± 2990 ng/g in liver, and 233 ± 111 ng/g in stomach oil (all wet weight). Pollutant profiles varied among the matrices, although 4,4′-DDE was the dominant compound overall. This method is useful for pollutant biomonitoring in seabirds and discusses the interest of analysing different matrices.