bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Probing Sulfur Vacancies in CVD-Grown Monolayer MoS2 on SiO2/Si in the Temperature Range 750–900°C
Authors: Tomar Rupika , Hsu Bo , Perez Alejandro , Stroscio Michael , Dutta Mitra
Published: May 2023

This work reports morphologically alike, high-quality monolayer MoS2 flakes with a similar strain at various growth temperatures (750–900°C) achieved by adjusting sulfur temperature. The growth dynamics of MoS2 are correlated with changes in the photoluminescence (PL) and Raman peak positions. Monolayer MoS2 crystals are synthesized at different growth temperatures from 750°C to 900°C using chemical vapor deposition (CVD). We examined the structural quality and aimed to extract the recombination mechanisms in MoS2 using low-temperature, variable, and low-laser-intensity PL measurements. Our studies of the defect-associated bound exciton emission are well correlated with the blueshift in the A1g mode of Raman spectra, blueshift in PL spectra, and x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy results for crystal grown at 900°C. Our research findings not only shed light on a thorough, non-intrusive method for modifying growth parameters to enhance optical performance, but they also suggest a way to modify the optical characteristics of MoS2 while maintaining the morphology.
It’s About the Power of Little People’: the UK Community Sponsorship Scheme, a New Space for Solidarity, Civic Engagement and Activism
Authors: Reyes-Soto Marisol
Published: May 2023

The Community Sponsorship Scheme (CSS) was introduced in 2016 by the UK Government to enable members of civil society to be directly involved in helping refugees settle in the UK. The CSS is intense and time-consuming, and a lot of effort is directed at helping one family to rebuild their lives in safety. Since the introduction of the scheme, nearly 1000 refugees have been resettled across the UK. The data used in this paper was collected as part of a three-year study intended to provide an independent formative evaluation of the CSS. Drawing on semi-structured interviews with 145 volunteers and 33 individuals from the wider community at five locations where refugees have been placed, this article examines how acts of solidarity, community networks and civic engagement have mobilised ordinary citizens who advocate in favour of the refugee cause. The findings support the argument that motivations to volunteer are both altruistic and egocentric, predominantly delivered by older female volunteers. The article demonstrates that volunteers involved in the CSS have played a fundamental role in bridging social capital with wider members of the host communities. It concludes that the CSS is an innovative model of refugee resettlement that is breeding a new type of volunteering that empowers British civil society.
Video Games as Mythology Museums? Mythographical Story Collections in Games
Authors: Vandewalle Alexander
Published: May 2023

The growing field of historical game studies (which studies the intersection of history and video games) has often described video games with historical settings as virtual museums, based on their potential to allow players to move through a historical game space and/or interact with historical artefacts. The present article investigates how these insights may be applied to mythological video games (i.e. those that represent and simulate a storyworld known from or inspired by mythological traditions). Specifically, this article argues (1) that through the collection, combination, and presentation of different myths, mythological video games often exhibit characteristics similar to ancient and modern mythography, (2) that on the basis of these mythographical qualities, they may be considered as interactive mythology museums, and (3) that the incorporation of these features has potential for applications in education. As case studies, this article considers the popular games Age of Mythology, Smite, Immortals Fenyx Rising, God of War (and its sequel, God of War: Ragnarök), Apotheon, and Hades in light of their mythographical and museal properties. Finally, several future directions to further improve upon the educational potential of these games for both formal and informal learning are suggested.
Positive and negative effects of collaboration on suggestibility and false memory in online groups
Authors: Rossi-Arnaud Clelia , Spataro Pietro , Santirocchi Alessandro , Pesola Maria Chiara , Costantini Laura , Cestari Vincenzo
Published: May 2023

Previous studies demonstrated the positive and negative effects of collaboration on memory (both veridical and false recall) and suggestibility in face-to-face contexts. However, it remains unclear whether the same results can be observed in a virtual context. To clarify this issue, the present study examined the performance of 10 nominal triads and 10 collaborative triads in a fully online setting. Participants interacted live, in videoconference and were tested with the Gudjonsson Suggestibility Scale (GSS) and the Deese/Roediger-McDermott (DRM) task. For the GSS, the results replicated the in-person pattern of results, with collaborative triads showing the standard inhibition effect in the immediate and delayed (after 24 h) recall tasks; in addition, collaborative triads were less suggestible than nominal triads. For the DRM, we likewise found that collaboration decreased the recall and recognition of both studied items (the standard inhibitory effect) and critical lures (the error-pruning effect). We therefore conclude that remembering in a virtual context exhibits the same general properties as its in-person counterpart, at least when using a videoconference setting.
On integral points of some Fano threefolds and their Hilbert schemes of lines and conics
Authors: Corvaja Pietro , Zucconi Francesco
Published: May 2023

We prove some density results for integral points on affine open sets of Fano threefolds. For instance, let$$X^o=\mathbb P^3{\setminus } D$$Xo=P3\DwhereDis the union of two quadrics such that their intersection contains a smooth conic, or the union of a smooth quadric surface and two planes, or the union of a smooth cubic surfaceVand a plane$$\Pi $$Πsuch that the intersection$$V\cap \Pi $$V∩Πcontains a line. In all these cases we show that the set of integral points of$$X^o$$Xois potentially dense. We apply the above results to prove that integral points are potentially dense in some log-Fano or in some log-Calabi-Yau threefold.
Advances and Applications of Brain Organoids
Authors: Li Yang , Zeng Peng-Ming , Wu Jian , Luo Zhen-Ge
Published: May 2023

Understanding the fundamental processes of human brain development and diseases is of great importance for our health. However, existing research models such as non-human primate and mouse models remain limited due to their developmental discrepancies compared with humans. Over the past years, an emerging model, the “brain organoid” integrated from human pluripotent stem cells, has been developed to mimic developmental processes of the human brain and disease-associated phenotypes to some extent, making it possible to better understand the complex structures and functions of the human brain. In this review, we summarize recent advances in brain organoid technologies and their applications in brain development and diseases, including neurodevelopmental, neurodegenerative, psychiatric diseases, and brain tumors. Finally, we also discuss current limitations and the potential of brain organoids.
Exploring Patients’ Perceptions About Chronic Kidney Disease and Their Treatment: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Meuleman Yvette , van der Bent Yvonne , Gentenaar Leandra , Caskey Fergus J. , Bart Hans AJ. , Konijn Wanda S. , Bos Willem Jan W. , Hemmelder Marc H. , Dekker Friedo W.
Published: May 2023

Background

Unhelpful illness perceptions can be changed by means of interventions and can lead to improved outcomes. However, little is known about illness perceptions in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) prior to kidney failure, and no tools exist in nephrology care to identify and support patients with unhelpful illness perceptions. Therefore, this study aims to: (1) identify meaningful and modifiable illness perceptions in patients with CKD prior to kidney failure; and (2) explore needs and requirements for identifying and supporting patients with unhelpful illness perceptions in nephrology care from patients’ and healthcare professionals’ perspectives.

Methods

Individual semi-structured interviews were conducted with purposive heterogeneous samples of Dutch patients with CKD (n = 17) and professionals (n = 10). Transcripts were analysed using a hybrid inductive and deductive approach: identified themes from the thematic analysis were hereafter organized according to Common-Sense Model of Self-Regulation principles.

Results

Illness perceptions considered most meaningful are related to the seriousness (illness identity, consequences, emotional response and illness concern) and manageability (illness coherence, personal control and treatment control) of CKD. Over time, patients developed more unhelpful seriousness-related illness perceptions and more helpful manageability-related illness perceptions, caused by: CKD diagnosis, disease progression, healthcare support and approaching kidney replacement therapy. Implementing tools to identify and discuss patients’ illness perceptions was considered important, after which support for patients with unhelpful illness perceptions should be offered. Special attention should be paid towards structurally embedding psychosocial educational support for patients and caregivers to deal with CKD-related symptoms, consequences, emotions and concerns about the future.

Conclusions

Several meaningful and modifiable illness perceptions do not change for the better by means of nephrology care. This underlines the need to identify and openly discuss illness perceptions and to support patients with unhelpful illness perceptions. Future studies should investigate whether implementing illness perception-based tools will indeed improve outcomes in CKD.
Management of medical equipment in the Brazilian public health system (SUS), historical situation and the context of the pandemic COVID-19: a cut for lung ventilators
Authors: Toscas Fotini Santos , Dias Eduardo Mario , Dias Maria Lídia , Santos Thiago Rodrigues , Oliveira Eduardo Jorge Valadares
Published: May 2023

Purpose

The main objective of this paper is to analyze the Brazilian Ministry of Health (MoH) efforts in the management of medical equipment, with a specific approach for lung ventilators in the pandemic scenario of COVID-19.

Methods

The methodology included a review of the normative framework and literature on technological management and research on the database of the Ministry of Health.

Results

As a promoter for acquiring medical equipment, the MoH role is highlighted and added to this competence; its function as the coordinator of the National Policy on Health Technology Management (PNGTS). According to the PNGTS the MoH has to support health managers in the implementing, monitoring, and maintaining health technologies. The scenario of lung ventilators in the pandemic was discussed, with research to verify demands, offers, installed capacity, and investments. In less than one year, the Ministry of Health acquired several pulmonary ventilators, 8.55 times greater than the annual averages of equipment acquired from 2016 to 2019. So far, there is still no maintenance plans or strategy of management for that equipment, especially in a post-pandemic scenario. Conclusion: It is possible to conclude that the Ministry of Health needs to improve health technology management systems. On the scale of the Policy, it is necessary to commit to permanent and long-term actions to ensure sustainability and reduce the technological vulnerabilities of the SUS.
Content Creators Between Platform Control and User Autonomy
Authors: Hödl Tatjana , Myrach Thomas
Published: May 2023

Content creators generate and upload content on social media platforms. If these platforms have a revenue-sharing policy, content creators earn income from advertising revenue. This income is heavily dependent on the distribution of the content and the resulting view counts. Platform owners may exert algorithmic control that impacts content distribution, advertising income, and, consequently, the behaviour of content creators. The objectives of the platform owners combined with the interests of the content creators may lead to paradoxical tensions between the aims of control and autonomy. The opaque nature of algorithms coupled with the need to be recognised by the algorithm further reinforces this phenomenon. This study follows an interpretive qualitative research approach applying grounded theory methodology. This research uses semi-structured interviews with content creators to develop a theory explaining the tension between control and autonomy on revenue-sharing social media platforms. The study shows that algorithmic control and incentivisation create paradoxical tensions that affect the autonomy of content creators. Content creators attempt to minimise tensions of algorithm versus audience, regularity versus scheduling autonomy, and analytics versus decision-making autonomy in two ways: through self-centred measures such as improving metrics, pre-production, and being a pioneer and extraneous measures involving their own businesses, products, and sponsorships. This study sheds some light on the phenomenon of paradoxical tensions and provides guidance and strategies for content creators and platform owners about proceeding with their relationship. This study’s findings provide platform owners and decision-makers with a deeper understanding of the behaviour of content creators and the hurdles they face in platform work. The findings help them identify challenges, draw conclusions, and implement changes.
Breast-to-Brain Metastasis: from Microenvironment to Plasticity
Authors: Das Diganta , Iyer Mukund , Roussos Torres Evanthia T. , Chow Frances E. , Neman Josh
Published: May 2023

Purpose of Review

Brain metastasis is a significant cause of mortality in breast cancer patients and treatment options are limited. This article will focus on the dynamic intercellular communication between metastatic cancer cells, the tumor microenvironment, and neighboring brain cells to breach the brain’s defenses and promote tumor progression.

Recent Findings

Recent advances have further elucidated how tumor cells traverse through the blood–brain barrier and implicated the blood–cerebrospinal fluid barrier as a potential entry point. Tumor cells once within the brain milieu utilize factors secreted by and dynamically reprogram neurons, glial cells, and infiltrating leukocytes for their own colonization and survival.

Current research has illuminated key mechanisms metastatic breast cancer cells utilize to infiltrate the brain and assimilate in their new environment. New multimodal treatments are investigating not only chemotherapy and radiation that can target metastatic tumor cells, but also immune checkpoint inhibitor–based therapies to sensitize the immune microenvironment.
Investigating the Feasibility and Effects of an Online Mindfulness Family Caregiver Training Program
Authors: Juberg Michael , Stoll Naomi , Goldin Philippe , Bell Janice
Published: May 2023

Objectives

This nonrandomized trial investigated the feasibility and mental health outcomes associated with a mindfulness family caregiver (MFC) training program delivered online.

Method

The study included 216 family caregivers (85.2% female; mean age = 57.34, SD = 12.87; 83.4% White, 2.8% Black, 12% Asian, 8.1% Hispanic, 1.8% American Indian/Alaska Native) who enrolled in the weekly, 4-session MFC training and completed self-report assessments at baseline, 1-month later at pre-training, and immediately after the MFC training. Feasibility was assessed in six domains (acceptability, demand, implementation, practicality, expansion, and limited efficacy) using self-reports and program attendance.

Results

The program was feasible in six domains. For feasibility, 70% of participants completed ≥ 75% of the training, with high rates of endorsement of training facets. For mental health outcomes, MFC was associated with significant improvement in depression (Hedges’ g = 0.49), anxiety (g = 0.64), caregiver burden (g = 0.51), and positive affect/well-being (g = 0.56). There was also evidence of increased physical (g = 0.19) and emotional (g = 0.19) health in caregivers.

Conclusions

A brief, 4-week, online group mindfulness training may be feasible and effective in reducing caregiver burden and enhancing psychological well-being in family caregivers.

Preregistration

The study is preregistered at Open Science Framework (https://osf.io/twz58/).
Boring bryozoans: an investigation into the endolithic bryozoan family Penetrantiidae
Authors: Decker Sebastian H. , Hirose Masato , Lemer Sarah , Kuklinski Piotr , Spencer Hamish G. , Smith Abigail M. , Schwaha Thomas
Published: May 2023

An endolithic lifestyle in mineralized substrates has evolved multiple times in various phyla including Bryozoa. The family Penetrantiidae includes one genus with ten extant and two fossil species. They predominantly colonize the shells of molluscs and establish colonies by chemical dissolution of calcium carbonate. Based on several morphological characters, they were described to be either cheilostome or ctenostome bryozoans. For more than 40 years, neither the characters of species identity and systematics nor the problem of their phylogeny was approached. Consequently, the aim of this study is to reevaluate species identities and the systematic position of the genus Penetrantia by analyzing at least six different species from eight regions with the aid of modern methods such as confocal laser scanning microscopy and 3D-reconstruction techniques. This study demonstrates that the musculature associated with the operculum and brood chamber shows significant differences from the cheilostome counterparts and seems to have evolved independently. Together with the presence of other ctenostome-like features such as true polymorphic stolons and uncalcified body wall, this finding supports a ctenostome affinity. Operculum morphology reveals many new species-specific characters, which, together with information about gonozooid morphology, tentacle number, and zooid size ranges, will enhance species identification. It also revealed a probable new species in Japan as well as potential cryptic species in France and New Zealand. In addition, this study increases the known distribution range of the family and its substrate diversity. Altogether, the new information collated here provides the basis for future work on a neglected taxon.
Additive Engineering for Stable and Efficient Dion–Jacobson Phase Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Liu Min , Pauporté Thierry
Published: May 2023

Because of their better chemical stability and fascinating anisotropic characteristics, Dion–Jacobson (DJ)-layered halide perovskites, which owe crystallographic two-dimensional structures, have fascinated growing attention for solar devices. DJ-layered halide perovskites have special structural and photoelectronic features that allow the van der Waals gap to be eliminated or reduced. DJ-layered halide perovskites have improved photophysical characteristics, resulting in improved photovoltaic performance. Nevertheless, owing to the nature of the solution procedure and the fast crystal development of DJ perovskite thin layers, the precursor compositions and processing circumstances can cause a variety of defects to occur. The application of additives can impact DJ perovskite crystallization and film generation, trap passivation in the bulk and/or at the surface, interface structure, and energetic tuning. This study discusses recent developments in additive engineering for DJ multilayer halide perovskite film production. Several additive-assisted bulk and interface optimization methodologies are summarized. Lastly, an overview of research developments in additive engineering in the production of DJ-layered halide perovskite solar cells is offered.
Graphene oxide/chitosan doped polysulfone membrane for the treatment of industrial wastewater
Authors: Yasir Ahmed T. , Benamor Abdelbaki , Hawari Alaa H. , Mahmoudi Ebrahim
Published: May 2023

Rapid urbanization and industrialization have created tremendous stress on fresh water sources. Moreover, discharge of industrial wastewater has left public health and environment under high potential risks. In this paper, chitosan-functionalized graphene oxide (GO-CH) was synthesized and incorporated into polysulfone (Psf) ultrafiltration membranes. The concentration of the nanocomposite and the ratio of GO to CH in the nanocomposite were varied to produce different GO-CH doped polysulfone membranes. The effect of GO-CH addition on the morphology and membrane performance was studied through water contact angle, scanning electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, porosity, pore size, and permeation measurements as well as rejection and antifouling tests, while produced GO-CH nanocomposite was characterized using FTIR and XRD analyses. The GO-CH/Psf membrane exhibited higher water flux, bovine serum albumin (BSA) rejection rate, and water flux recovery ratio, and lower BSA solution flux attenuation rate than pristine Psf membrane. GO-CH/Psf membrane containing 0.085 wt% nanocomposite with GO to CH ratio of 1 to 0.01 had an improved permeate flux of 136%. Maintaining the same GO-CH composition of 0.085 wt% and changing GO to CH ratio to 1:1 resulted in better hydrophilicity (contact angle 68°) and increased reversible fouling from 23 to 33%. The best membrane was further tested with real industrial wastewater obtained from a GTL plant in Qatar showed 28% improvement in COD removal.
Methods for Determination of the Layer Charge of Smectites: A Critical Assessment of Existing Approaches
Authors: Christidis G. E. , Chryssikos G. D. , Derkowski A. , Dohrmann R. , Eberl D. D. , Joussein E. , Kaufhold S.
Published: May 2023

Layer charge is an important property of 2:1 phyllosilicates originating from isomorphic substitutions in the structure, from vacancies in the octahedral sheet and from unsatisfied bonds at the edges of the crystals. It is of particular interest in the case of smectites because it affects important properties of this mineral. Several methods have been proposed for determining the layer charge of smectites, namely the structural formula method (SFM), the alkylammonium method (AAM), the NH4-method, the K-saturation method, and the O-D method. Most of these methods have been used extensively in the past and they all have advantages and shortcomings. The SFM and the AAM are based on different principles and are considered as primary methods. They have been used for a long time but they are time consuming and they provide contrasting layer charge values, with the AAM yielding consistently lower layer charge values than the SFM, especially for low-charge smectites. The remaining methods have been developed more recently and have been calibrated over their primary counterparts. They are applied easily and are capable of producing a large amount of data within a short time. In this sense they can be used both for geological interpretations and for assessment of bentonite deposits at an industrial scale.
Denoising Method for Microseismic Signals with Convolutional Neural Network Based on Transfer Learning
Authors: Li Xuegui , Feng Shuo , Guo Yuantao , Li Hanyang , Zhou Yingjie
Published: May 2023

Microseismic signals contain various information for oil and gas developing. Increasing the signal-to-noise ratio of microseismic signals can successfully improve the effectiveness of oil and gas resource exploration. The lack of sufficient labeled microseismic signals makes it difficult to train neural network model. Transfer learning can solve this problem using image data sets to pre-train the denoising model and the learned knowledge can be transferred into microseismic signals denoising. In addition, a convolutional neural network (CNN) model with 16 layers is designed for noise reduction. Considering the strong similarity between noisy signals and denoising signals, residual learning is utilized to optimize the denoising model. The simulation experiment results show that the proposed denoising model eliminates the noise in the microseismic signals effectively and quickly, restores the amplitude of the microseismic signals with high accuracy, and has excellent effect in denoising on the information at the edge.
The Prevention Cycle: State Investments in Preventing System Risks over Time
Authors: Heerma van Voss Bas
Published: May 2023

The policy drivers for preventing system risks – risks that threaten vital parts of society – represent an as-yet understudied subject. A fundamental characteristic of an effective prevention policy for system risks is long-term investment. This article presents evidence that long-term investment in prevention follows a cyclical rather than a stable pattern, which implies large costs to the welfare of future generations. This cycle is usually triggered by a shock that shifts the set of preventive policies that are acceptable to or even demanded by society. After a rapid rise in preventive investment, however, attention often wanes, and the downturn of the prevention cycle sets in. While policy shocks from crises and disasters are commonly studied, their policy legacies rarely have been. This article offers a theoretical framework for this “prevention cycle”, demonstrates its applicability in understanding policy investment in several system risks and offers suggestions for its fundamental causes.
Indigenous Political Representation in Canada
Authors: Carrière Réal , Koop Royce
Published: May 2023

Despite long-standing academic interest in Indigenous peoples and the Canadian state, there has been little study of Indigenous elected officials as representational actors. We ask: What are the distinctively Indigenous forms of representation practised by Indigenous elected officials in Canada? And how does clarifying the role of Indigenous elected officials as representatives both contribute to and enhance our overall understanding of Indigenous politics, governance and sovereignty? We draw on the existing literatures on substantive representation as well as original interviews conducted with current and former Indigenous elected officials to develop an original conceptualization of Indigenous representation. These actors differ in their perceptions of themselves and their roles as representatives, the representational behaviours they engage in and the outcomes they seek. Our conceptualization of Indigenous representation engages with four themes: Indigenous perspective, Indigenous advocacy, balance with other imperatives including constituency representation and party discipline, and Indigenous nationhood.
The DESC stellarator code suite. Part 2. Perturbation and continuation methods
Authors: Conlin Rory , Dudt Daniel W. , Panici Dario , Kolemen Egemen
Published: May 2023

A new perturbation and continuation method is presented for computing and analysing stellarator equilibria. The method is formally derived from a series expansion about the equilibrium condition

$\boldsymbol {F} \equiv \boldsymbol {J}\times \boldsymbol {B} - \boldsymbol {\nabla } p = 0$

, and an efficient algorithm for computing solutions to second- and third-order perturbations is developed. The method has been implemented in the DESC stellarator equilibrium code, using automatic differentiation to compute the required derivatives. Examples are shown demonstrating its use for computing complicated equilibria, perturbing a tokamak into a stellarator and performing parameter scans in pressure, rotational transform and boundary shape in a fraction of the time required for a full solution.
The mechanisms that control the preantral to early antral follicle transition and the strategies to have efficient culture systems to promote their growthin vitro
Authors: Nascimento D. R. , Barbalho E. C. , Gondim Barrozo L. , de Assis E. I. T. , Costa F. C. , Silva J. R. V.
Published: May 2023

Preantral to early antral follicles transition is a complex process regulated by endocrine and paracrine factors, as well as by a precise interaction among oocyte, granulosa cells and theca cells. Understanding the mechanisms that regulate this step of folliculogenesis is important to improvein vitroculture systems, and opens new perspectives to use oocytes from preantral follicles for assisted reproductive technologies. Therefore, this review aims to discuss the endocrine and paracrine mechanisms that control granulosa cell proliferation and differentiation, formation of the antral cavity, estradiol production, atresia, and follicular fluid production during the transition from preantral to early antral follicles. The strategies that promotein vitrogrowth of preantral follicles are also discussed.
The experience of living with malignant meningioma
Authors: Maier Andrea Daniela , Nordentoft Sara , Mathiesen Tiit , Guldager Rikke
Published: May 2023

Objectives

Meningiomas are the most common, primary intracranial tumor and most are benign. Little is known of the rare patient group living with a malignant meningioma, comprising 1–3% of all meningiomas. Our aim was to explore how patients perceived quality of daily life after a malignant meningioma diagnosis.

Methods

This qualitative explorative study was composed of individual semi-structured interviews. Eligible patients (n = 12) were selected based on ability to participate in an interview, from a background population of 23 patients diagnosed with malignant meningioma at Rigshospitalet from 2000 to 2021. We performed an inductive thematic analysis following Braun and Clarke’s guidelines.

Results

Eight patients were interviewed. The analysis revealed 4 overarching themes: (1) perceived illness and cause of symptoms, (2) identity, roles, and interaction, (3) threat and uncertainty of the future, and (4) belief in authority. The perceived quality of daily life is negatively impacted by the disease. Patients experience a shift in self-concept and close interactions, and some struggle with accepting a new everyday life. Patients have a high risk of discordant prognostic awareness in relation to health-care professionals.

Significance of results

We provide a much-needed patient-centered perspective of living with malignant meningioma: quality of life was affected by perception of threat and an uncertainty of the future. Perception of illness and the interpretation of the cause of symptoms varied between subjects, but a common trait was that patients’ identity, roles, and interactions were affected. Shared decision-making and a strengthened continuity during follow-up could aid this rare patient group.
In-depth morphological assessment revealed significant genetic variability in common buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum) and tartary buckwheat (Fagopyrum tataricum) germplasm
Authors: Bhat Sabreena , Nazir Muslima , Zargar Showkat A. , Naik Samiullah , Dar Waseem Ali , Bhat Bilal A. , Mahajan Reetika , Ganai Bashir Ahmad , Sofi Parvaze A. , Zargar Sajad Majeed
Published: May 2023

Buckwheat (Fagopyrum spp.) is an important crop in the high-altitude regions of the Northwest Indian Himalayas. The agro-climatic heterogeneity of this region offers a great deal of diversity in the agro-morphology of buckwheat species. In this study, a total of 61 accessions of Fagopyrum esculentum and Fagopyrum tataricum were characterized for 17 morphological (8 qualitative and 9 quantitative) traits. Significant differences (P < 0.0001) among all the traits were revealed by one-way analysis of variance. Further, significant phenotypic variability in both qualitative as well as quantitative traits was also observed. Both positive and negative correlations were observed between the traits of agronomic relevance. The principal component analysis (PCA) reveals about 69% variability among the first six components. The accessions were divided into two key clusters with numerous subclusters by considering the unweighted pair group method with arithmetic mean dendrogram. A cluster of 19 accessions was formed utilizing a PCA scatter plot indicating accessions with maximum values for important quality traits like plant height, leaf blade width, stem colour (red), primary branches, inflorescence length, flower colour (greenish-yellow), seed anthocyanin colour (green), seed shape (ovate) and seed weight. These accessions can be of vital significance for future buckwheat breeding programmes. The findings from the current study will form a favourable base for genetic resource management, improved cultivation and applications of buckwheat at the commercial level in the northwestern Himalayas of India.
The Importance of Neuropsychology in the Early Rehabilitation of Patients with Critical Illness after Acute COVID Infection
Authors: Maurer-Karattup Petra , Rost Luzie
Published: May 2023

Abstract: The current literature has insufficiently examined the potential benefits of implementing early neuropsychological interventions for critically ill patients who have experienced COVID-19. To address this research gap, we conducted a descriptive analysis of clinical and neuropsychological data from N = 29 critically ill patients with COVID-19 admitted to an early neurological rehabilitation facility. Most patients had been diagnosed with critical illness polyneuropathy (CIP), and one-third exhibited additional brain damage. Upon admission, all patients exhibited severe cognitive impairments, demonstrating significant improvement following neuropsychological therapy. Nonetheless, the neurocognitive outcomes at discharge displayed a high cognitive and psychoemotional status variability. This paper presents the neuropsychological treatment concept we employed and discusses challenges encountered while treating critically ill patients with cognitive impairments.
The Leipzig Treatment Program for Interdisciplinary Diagnosis and Therapy of Neurocognitive Post-COVID Symptoms
Authors: Hasting Anna S. , Herzig Sabine , Obrig Hellmuth , Schroeter Matthias L. , Villringer Arno , Thöne-Otto Angelika I. T.
Published: May 2023

Abstract: This study introduces a 3-week group program designed for patients with neurocognitive post-COVID-19 syndrome (PCS). The program represents a combination of evidence-based components of neurorehabilitation and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). Following a detailed assessment, we develop a personalized bio-psycho-social model that integrates perceived complaints and identifies modifiable and influencing factors. We employed physiotherapeutic, cognitive, and communicative training methods to improve patients’ awareness of energy limits and implement compensatory strategies, including pacing and mindfulness techniques. N = 33 patients completed the program between June 2021 and November 2022. A pre-post comparison of questionnaire-based self-assessments revealed significant positive effects on mood, self-efficacy, and participation but not on fatigue symptoms. The study provides recommendations for the neuropsychological treatment of patients with PCS.
Zonal Distribution of Circumpolar Deep Water Transformation Rates and Its Relation to Heat Content on Antarctic Shelves
Authors: Narayanan Aditya , Gille Sarah T. , Mazloff Matthew R. , du Plessis Marcel D. , Murali K. , Roquet Fabien
Published: May 2023

We analyze 15‐year of observational data and a 5‐year Southern Ocean model simulation to quantify the transformation rates of Circumpolar Deep Water (CDW) and the associated heat loss to the surface. This study finds that over the continental shelves of East Antarctica and the Weddell and Ross Seas, surface buoyancy fluxes transform ∼4.4 Sv of surface waters into CDW, providing a path for CDW to lose heat to the surface. In addition, ∼6.6 Sv of CDW are mixed with surface waters in the Weddell and Ross subpolar gyres. In contrast, enhanced stratification inhibits the outcropping of CDW isopycnals, reducing their transformation rates by a factor of ∼8 over the continental shelf and by a factor of ∼3 over the deeper ocean in the Amundsen and Bellingshausen Seas. The CDW retains its offshore warm properties as it intrudes over the continental shelves, resulting in elevated bottom temperatures there. This analysis demonstrates the importance of processes in subpolar gyres to erode CDW and to facilitate further transformation on the continental shelves, significantly reducing the heat able to access ice shelf fronts. This sheltering effect is strongest in the western Weddell Sea and tends to diminish toward the east, which helps explain the large zonal differences in continental‐shelf bottom temperatures and the melt rates of Antarctic ice shelves.
Aerosol Indirect Effects on Water Vapor in the UTLS of Typhoon Saomai (2006)
Authors: Qu Yi , Khain Alexander , Chen Baojun , Sun Liangxiao , Meng Chunchun
Published: May 2023

The evolution of landfalling Typhoon Saomai (2006) is simulated using the Weather Research and Forecasting model with spectral bin microphysics scheme, showing tropical cyclone (TC) could vertically transport water vapor from troposphere to upper troposphere and lower stratosphere (UTLS). Three aerosol sensitivity experiments are conducted to explore the indirect effects of aerosol served as cloud condensation nuclei (CCN) on overshooting convection (OTC) and water vapor content in UTLS, namely MAR (maritime), MIX (semi‐continental) and CON (continental). Results revealed that CON simulation with high initial aerosol concentration showing invigorated convection at the periphery of the TC, which interfered with the reformation of TC eyewall, leading to TC weakening finally. In addition, CON simulated the least water content in UTLS through suppressing the number of convection overshooting the tropopause level. Most overshooting events take place during TC developing stage in the eyewall region before landfall. Higher levels of CCN concentration could lead to decreased number of OTC in TC, consistently reduced the water vapor content in UTLS. CON and MIX experiments simulated respectively 21.9% (16.2%) and 9.96% (1.5%) less OTC (water vapor content in UTLS) than MAR simulation. Water vapor content in UTLS is affected by the interaction of OTC and ice‐phase microphysics. The interesting point is that the CCN sensitivity experiments show that water vapor content in UTLS of a TC is sensitive to the CCN concentration in the boundary layer.
Dayside Vertical Wind Reversal at Transition Altitude From E to F Regions Observed by the ICON Satellite
Authors: Huang Yuyang , Xiong Chao , Wu Jiawei , Stolle Claudia , Wang Fengjue , Zheng Yuhao , Xu Chunyu , Hu Yang , Wang Simin
Published: May 2023

The Michelson Interferometer for Global High‐Resolution Thermospheric Imaging (MIGHTI) onboard the Ionospheric Connection Explorer (ICON) mission measures the neutral winds from about 88 to 310 km altitudes, which provides a good opportunity to investigate the vertical distribution of the neutral winds. In this study we used the green line of MIGHTI to focus on the wind reversal due to large vertical shears at the transition altitude from E to F regions (∼120–220 km). For the limitations of green line filter during night‐time, we therefore present only the results on the dayside from 0600 to 1800 local time (LT). Based on more than 2 years data, there were 206 and 96 orbits identified with clear wind reversal in the meridional and zonal components, respectively. These events almost covered the whole altitude of ∼120–220 km. Interestingly, such wind reversal occurs mostly (about 75%) during magnetic quiet periods with Kp less than 2. Their dependences on LT, geographic latitude (Glat) and longitude (Glon) have been further analyzed. Two different trends for the wind reversals on LT dependence have been found, for example, the mean altitude of meridional (zonal) wind reversal is higher at dawn, and then slowly decreases toward dusk; or the mean altitude of wind reversal is higher at dusk and slowly decreases toward dawn. Such two kinds of altitude trends of wind reversal are also found for the dependence on Glat, but not on Glon. In addition, we find that there are about 90% orbits with wind reversal simultaneously observed at the low E and F regions, but the altitude variations of wind reversal can be the same or opposite in the two regions, even for the same orbit. This result suggests that the wind reversals at the low E and low F regions should be different. The climatology of the wind reversals at low F region observed by ICON provides helpful constrain for the neutral wind simulation based on physical models.
The Upper‐Mantle Structure Beneath Alaska Imaged by Teleseismic S‐Wave Reverberations
Authors: Hao Shangqin , Shearer Peter , Liu Tianze
Published: May 2023

Alaska is a tectonically active region with a long history of subduction and terrane accretion, but knowledge of its deep seismic structure is limited by a relatively sparse station distribution. By combining data from the EarthScope Transportable Array and other regional seismic networks, we obtain a high‐resolution state‐wide map of the Moho and upper‐mantle discontinuities beneath Alaska using teleseismic SH‐wave reverberations. Crustal thickness is generally correlated with elevation and the deepest Moho is in the region with basal accretion of the subducted Yakutat plate, consistent with its higher density due to a more mafic composition. The crustal thickness in the Brooks Range agrees with the prediction based on Airy isostasy and the weak free‐air gravity anomaly, suggesting that this region probably does not have significant density anomalies. We also resolve the 410, 520, and 660 discontinuities in most regions, with a thickened mantle transition zone (MTZ) and a normal depth difference between the 520 and 660 discontinuities (d660‐d520) under central Alaska, indicating the presence of the subducted Pacific slab in the upper MTZ. A near‐normal MTZ and a significantly smaller d660‐d520 are resolved under southeastern Alaska, suggesting potential mantle upwelling in the lower MTZ. Beneath the Alaska Peninsula, the thinned MTZ implies that the Pacific slab may not have reached the MTZ in this region, which is also consistent with recent tomography models. Overall, the results demonstrate a bent or segmented Pacific slab with varying depths under central Alaska and the Alaska Peninsula.
Inside-out assembly of viral antigens for the enhanced vaccination
Authors: Cao Fengqiang , Peng Sha , An Yaling , Xu Kun , Zheng Tianyi , Dai Lianpan , Ogino Kenji , Ngai To , Xia Yufei , Ma Guanghui
Published: May 2023

Current attempts in vaccine delivery systems concentrate on replicating the natural dissemination of live pathogens, but neglect that pathogens evolve to evade the immune system rather than to provoke it. In the case of enveloped RNA viruses, it is the natural dissemination of nucleocapsid protein (NP, core antigen) and surface antigen that delays NP exposure to immune surveillance. Here, we report a multi-layered aluminum hydroxide-stabilized emulsion (MASE) to dictate the delivery sequence of the antigens. In this manner, the receptor-binding domain (RBD, surface antigen) of the spike protein was trapped inside the nanocavity, while NP was absorbed on the outside of the droplets, enabling the burst release of NP before RBD. Compared with the natural packaging strategy, the inside-out strategy induced potent type I interferon-mediated innate immune responses and triggered an immune-potentiated environment in advance, which subsequently boosted CD40+ DC activations and the engagement of the lymph nodes. In both H1N1 influenza and SARS-CoV-2 vaccines, rMASE significantly increased antigen-specific antibody secretion, memory T cell engagement, and Th1-biased immune response, which diminished viral loads after lethal challenge. By simply reversing the delivery sequence of the surface antigen and core antigen, the inside-out strategy may offer major implications for enhanced vaccinations against the enveloped RNA virus.
Long-term exposure to air pollution and severe COVID-19 in Catalonia: a population-based cohort study
Authors: Ranzani Otavio , Alari Anna , Olmos Sergio , Milà Carles , Rico Alex , Ballester Joan , Basagaña Xavier , Chaccour Carlos , Dadvand Payam , Duarte-Salles Talita , Foraster Maria , Nieuwenhuijsen Mark , Sunyer Jordi , Valentín Antònia , Kogevinas Manolis , Lazcano Uxue , Avellaneda-Gómez Carla , Vivanco Rosa , Tonne Cathryn
Published: May 2023

The association between long-term exposure to ambient air pollutants and severe COVID-19 is uncertain. We followed 4,660,502 adults from the general population in 2020 in Catalonia, Spain. Cox proportional models were fit to evaluate the association between annual averages of PM2.5, NO2, BC, and O3 at each participant’s residential address and severe COVID-19. Higher exposure to PM2.5, NO2, and BC was associated with an increased risk of COVID-19 hospitalization, ICU admission, death, and hospital length of stay. An increase of 3.2 µg/m3 of PM2.5 was associated with a 19% (95% CI, 16–21) increase in hospitalizations. An increase of 16.1 µg/m3 of NO2 was associated with a 42% (95% CI, 30–55) increase in ICU admissions. An increase of 0.7 µg/m3 of BC was associated with a 6% (95% CI, 0–13) increase in deaths. O3 was positively associated with severe outcomes when adjusted by NO2. Our study contributes robust evidence that long-term exposure to air pollutants is associated with severe COVID-19.
Oxidative cleavage and ammoxidation of organosulfur compounds via synergistic Co-Nx sites and Co nanoparticles catalysis
Authors: Luo Huihui , Tian Shuainan , Liang Hongliang , Wang He , Gao Shuang , Dai Wen
Published: May 2023

The cleavage and functionalization of C–S bonds have become a rapidly growing field for the design or discovery of new transformations. However, it is usually difficult to achieve in a direct and selective fashion due to the intrinsic inertness and catalyst-poisonous character. Herein, for the first time, we report a novel and efficient protocol that enables direct oxidative cleavage and cyanation of organosulfur compounds by heterogeneous nonprecious-metal Co-N-C catalyst comprising graphene encapsulated Co nanoparticles and Co-Nx sites using oxygen as environmentally benign oxidant and ammonia as nitrogen source. A wide variety of thiols, sulfides, sulfoxides, sulfones, sulfonamides, and sulfonyl chlorides are viable in this reaction, enabling access to diverse nitriles under cyanide-free conditions. Moreover, modifying the reaction conditions also allows for the cleavage and amidation of organosulfur compounds to deliver amides. This protocol features excellent functional group tolerance, facile scalability, cost-effective and recyclable catalyst, and broad substrate scope. Characterization and mechanistic studies reveal that the remarkable effectiveness of the synergistic catalysis of Co nanoparticles and Co-Nx sites is crucial for achieving outstanding catalytic performance.
Hyperphosphorylated PTEN exerts oncogenic properties
Authors: van Ree Janine H. , Jeganathan Karthik B. , Fierro Velasco Raul O. , Zhang Cheng , Can Ismail , Hamada Masakazu , Li Hu , Baker Darren J. , van Deursen Jan M.
Published: May 2023

PTEN is a multifaceted tumor suppressor that is highly sensitive to alterations in expression or function. The PTEN C-tail domain, which is rich in phosphorylation sites, has been implicated in PTEN stability, localization, catalytic activity, and protein interactions, but its role in tumorigenesis remains unclear. To address this, we utilized several mouse strains with nonlethal C-tail mutations. Mice homozygous for a deletion that includes S370, S380, T382 and T383 contain low PTEN levels and hyperactive AKT but are not tumor prone. Analysis of mice containing nonphosphorylatable or phosphomimetic versions of S380, a residue hyperphosphorylated in human gastric cancers, reveal that PTEN stability and ability to inhibit PI3K-AKT depends on dynamic phosphorylation-dephosphorylation of this residue. While phosphomimetic S380 drives neoplastic growth in prostate by promoting nuclear accumulation of β-catenin, nonphosphorylatable S380 is not tumorigenic. These data suggest that C-tail hyperphosphorylation creates oncogenic PTEN and is a potential target for anti-cancer therapy.