bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clarifying the relationship between trait mindfulness and objective performance
Authors: Goilean Cristina , Gracia Francisco J. , Tomás Inés
Published: December 2021

The present study focused on the relationship between trait mindfulness and the outcome component of performance, evaluated with objective indicators. In particular, four objective performance indicators were studied: accuracy, reaction time, variability in reaction times, and detection of unexpected stimuli. Because attention and awareness have been described as core components of mindfulness, and previous research suggests that mindfulness is associated with improved attention skills, this study predicted that trait mindfulness would be positively related to objective indicators of high performance (accuracy, detection of unexpected stimuli) and negatively related to objective indicators of low performance (reaction time, variability in reaction time), on an attention task. Moreover, the study predicted that the relationship between trait mindfulness and objective performance would be modulated by task complexity. University students (139) completed mindfulness, intelligence, and personality questionnaires and completed an adapted Stroop task (Stroop, 1935) in E-prime 2 software. To test our hypotheses, we performed hierarchical multiple regression analyses in SPSS. Our results revealed that trait mindfulness is not related to objective indicators of performance in an attention task, except for the detection of unexpected stimuli. Going further with our analyses, we also confirmed the important role of intelligence in performance outcomes. Finally, task complexity was not playing a moderator role in the relationship between mindfulness and objective performance. Our research contributes to the literature on mindfulness and objective performance, providing empirical evidence for the relationship between trait mindfulness and the detection of unexpected stimuli. Study limitations and avenues for future research are discussed.
Geschlecht, Parteizugehörigkeit und strategische Überlegungen
Authors: Ruf Florian
Published: December 2021

Ratsmitglieder sind zentrale Gatekeeper bei politischen Entscheidungen auf der lokalen Ebene. Dieser Aufsatz erklärt Unterschiede in den Einstellungen von 1638 weiblichen und männlichen Ratsmitgliedern zu repräsentativen, partizipativen und direktdemokratischen Beteiligungsformen. Er legt dabei einen Schwerpunkt auf (a) ihre Parteizugehörigkeit und (b) ihre strategischen Überlegungen, die sie anstrengen, um ihre Präferenzen durchzusetzen. Im Gegensatz zu den vorhandenen vergleichenden Studien legt diese Analyse einen Schwerpunkt auf die Unterschiede in den Einstellungen zwischen den Geschlechtern. Dabei wird gezeigt, dass die Einstellungen von weiblichen Ratsmitgliedern eben auch von ihren unterschiedlichen Erfahrungen und Perspektiven abhängen, die sie mit institutionellen Machtungleichgewichten machen. Oft befinden sich Frauen in einer Minderheitenposition im Rat und müssen zusätzliche Hindernisse überwinden, bevor sie ihre Präferenzen genauso wie ihre männlichen Kollegen durchsetzen können. Die Untersuchung zeigt, dass Ratsfrauen hier partizipative Beteiligungsmöglichkeiten grundsätzlich besser bewerten als ihre männlichen Kollegen. Vor allem Ratsfrauen der Partei die Linke und der CDU unterscheiden sich am stärksten von ihren männlichen Parteikollegen im Rat. Und auch eine gängige Annahme aus der Forschung zur Einstellung von Ratsmitgliedern bei Beteiligungsmöglichkeiten muss für zumindest für Baden-Württemberg ausdifferenziert werden: Es sind die Männer im Rat, die aus einer Position der Stärke heraus ihre Einstellungen begründen, während die Zugehörigkeit zur Mehrheit im Rat keine Auswirkungen für Ratsfrauen auf ihre Einstellungen gegenüber den drei unterschiedlichen Beteiligungsmöglichkeiten hat.
Association of pigment epithelium derived factor expression with cancer progression and prognosis: a meta-analysis study
Authors: Cheng Guo , Song Crystal
Published: December 2021

Background

Pigment epithelium derived factor (PEDF) is a secreted protein that strongly suppresses angiogenesis and directly inhibits cancer cells proliferation. The differential expression of PEDF has been observed in multiple types of human tumors. However, it is unclear as to how PEDF expression is associated with cancer progression and if PEDF could serve as a prognostic marker for cancer patients.

Methods

We performed a comprehensive search for the studies on PEDF expression in 14 top-ranked types of solid tumor cancer with the highest incidence. A systemic approach was used to screen for qualified studies and to extract data. Meta-analysis was performed to investigate if PEDF expression is associated with the TNM staging, tumor size, lymph node invasion, distal metastasis and pathological grade of tumor in a pan-cancer manner. A Kaplan–Meier curve was plotted with the digitally-reconstituted patient survival data to study the effect of PEDF expression on the prognosis of cancer patients.

Results

A total of nine studies were selected, reviewed and analyzed. Meta-analysis suggested that decreased PEDF protein expression was associated with higher TNM staging (OR = 2.13, 95% CI: 1.61–2.81), larger tumor size (OR = 1.42, 95% CI: 1.1–1.84), larger possibility of lymph node invasion (OR = 1.68, 95% CI: 1.26–2.22) and higher pathological grade (OR = 1.6, 95% CI: 1.2–2.13). No correlation was found between PEDF expression and tumor distal metastasis, gender or age. In addition, low PEDF protein level in tumor tissue is correlated with shorter overall survival (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Low PEDF protein expression in cancer is significantly associated with more advanced cancer progression and significantly poorer survival. The differential clinical outcome among patients with various PEDF expression suggests its prognostic value.
Photorheological fluids of azobenzene polymers for lubrication regulation
Authors: Tang Shuangxi , Li Shayu , Ma Liran , Tian Yu
Published: December 2021

Fluid viscosity is ubiquitous property and is of practical importance in intelligent fluids, industrial lubrication, and pipeline fluid transportation. Recently, there has been a surging interest in viscosity regulation. Here, we have developed a group of photorheological fluids by utilizing azobenzene polymers with a light-induced microstructure transformation. In this work, a photosensitive polymer with 4,4′-bis-hydroxyazobenzene as the main chain was designed and synthesized as a pivotal functional material. The sufficiently large structural difference under ultraviolet and near-infrared light makes it possible to regulate the viscosity of a polyethylene glycol solution. The viscosity of the photosensitive rheological fluids under ultraviolet light radiation is found to be up to 45.1% higher than that under near-infrared light radiation. To explore this intelligent lubricating technology, the friction regulation of ceramic sliding bearings was investigated utilizing photosensitive rheological fluids. Reversible friction regulation with a ratio of up to 3.77 has been achieved by the alternative irradiation of near-infrared and ultraviolet light, which can be attributed to the differences in mechanical properties and molecular structures under ultraviolet and near-infrared light according to both simulations and experiments. Such photorheological fluids will have promising applications in controllable lubrication, intelligent rheological fluids, and photosensitive dampers.
Experimental and modelling studies of the transient tribological behaviour of a two-phase lubricant under complex loading conditions
Authors: Yang Xiao , Zhang Lemeng , Politis Denis J. , Zhang Jie , Gharbi Mohammad M. , Leyvraz David , Wang Liliang
Published: December 2021

The transient tribological phenomenon and premature lubricant breakdown have been widely observed in metal forming, leading to excessive friction at the contact interfaces. In this research, the transient tribological behaviour of a two-phase lubricant were studied under complex loading conditions, featuring abrupt interfacial temperature, contact load, and sliding speed changes, thus representing the severe interfacial conditions observed in warm/hot metal forming applications. The strong experimental evidence indicates that the evolution of friction was attributed to the physical diminution and chemical decomposition effects. As such, a visco-mechanochemical interactive friction model was developed to accurately predict the transient tribological behaviour of the two-phase lubricant under complex loading conditions. The new friction model exhibited close agreements between the modelling and experimental results.
Bio-Inspired Microwave Modulator for High-Temperature Electromagnetic Protection, Infrared Stealth and Operating Temperature Monitoring
Authors: Yang Xuan , Duan Yuping , Li Shuqing , Pang Huifang , Huang Lingxi , Fu Yuanyuan , Wang Tongmin
Published: December 2021

High-temperature electromagnetic (EM) protection materials integrated of multiple EM protection mechanisms and functions are regarded as desirable candidates for solving EM interference over a wide temperature range. In this work, a novel microwave modulator is fabricated by introducing carbonyl iron particles (CIP)/resin into channels of carbonized wood (C-wood). Innovatively, the spaced arrangement of two microwave absorbents not only achieves a synergistic enhancement of magnetic and dielectric losses, but also breaks the translational invariance of EM characteristics in the horizontal direction to obtain multiple phase discontinuities in the frequency range of 8.2–18.0 GHz achieving modulation of reflected wave radiation direction. Accordingly, CIP/C-wood microwave modulator demonstrates the maximum effective bandwidth of 5.2 GHz and the maximum EM protection efficiency over 97% with a thickness of only 1.5 mm in the temperature range 298–673 K. Besides, CIP/C-wood microwave modulator shows stable and low thermal conductivities, as well as monotonic electrical conductivity-temperature characteristics, therefore it can also achieve thermal infrared stealth and working temperature monitoring in wide temperature ranges. This work provides an inspiration for the design of high-temperature EM protection materials with multiple EM protection mechanisms and functions.
The cost of cybercrime in the US healthcare sector
Authors: Abulencia Jesse
Published: December 2021

The US healthcare system is burdened with the highest costs in the world, and they are still rising as a result of the system itself, its own inefficiencies and government politics. However, there is yet another factor coming more and more into play, adding additional costs and risks to stakeholders in the healthcare system, affecting patients, employees, governments and the doctors themselves. While digitisation and technology provide vast benefits for the quality and efficiency of the work of medical professionals and care of patients, cybercrime in the healthcare sector has risen as well.
Narrative Aspects of Images of Spear Use in Scandinavian Rock Carvings
Authors: Skoglund Peter , Ranta Michael , Persson Tomas , Rédei Anna Cabak
Published: December 2021

Researchers have long discussed whether Scandinavian rock art reflects narratives. Their interpretations have frequently been based on inspections of rock art panels combined with knowledge from ethnographic and historical sources. Here, the authors adopt a more focused narratological approach that takes the concept of (visual) narrativity into consideration and draws on studies by literary analysts, cognitive psychologists, and semioticians. Images of spear use in the provinces of Bohuslän and Östergötland in Sweden, given their diversity and indexical qualities, are well-suited to such a study. They reveal different kinds of indexical relationships, i.e. how the spears direct attention to possible targets, arguably corresponding to action scripts well-known to Bronze Age communities. Many spear images may be regarded as mini-narratives and mnemonic devices intended to represent schematized action sequences. The authors suggest that concepts such as iconicity, indexical relationships, scripts, and mini-narratives could be fruitfully employed in research on Scandinavian rock art and beyond.
Second-order characteristics don't favor a number-representing ANS
Authors: Buijsman Stefan
Published: December 2021

Clarke and Beck argue that the ANS doesn't represent non-numerical magnitudes because of its second-order character. A sensory integration mechanism can explain this character as well, provided the dumbbell studies involve interference from systems that segment by objects such as the Object Tracking System. Although currently equal hypotheses, I point to several ways the two can be distinguished.
Numerical cognition: Unitary or diversified system(s)?
Authors: Henik Avishai , Salti Moti , Avitan Aviv , Oz-Cohen Elad , Shilat Yoel , Sokolowski H. Moriah
Published: December 2021

Many researchers, including Clarke and Beck, describe the human numerical system as unitary. We offer an alternative view – the coexistence of several systems; namely, multiple systems (general magnitude, parallel individuation, and symbolic) existing in parallel, ready to be activated depending on the task/need. Based on this alternative view, we present an account for the representation of rational numbers.
Representation of pure magnitudes in ANS
Authors: Gross Steven , Kowalsky William , Burge Tyler
Published: December 2021

According to Clarke and Beck (C&B), the approximate number system (ANS) represents numbers. We argue that the ANS represents pure magnitudes. Considerations of explanatory economy favor the pure magnitudes hypothesis. The considerations C&B direct against the pure magnitudes hypothesis do not have force.
A model-free deep reinforcement learning approach for control of exoskeleton gait patterns
Authors: Rose Lowell , Bazzocchi Michael C. F. , Nejat Goldie
Published: December 2021

Lower-body exoskeleton control that adapts to users and provides assistance-as-needed can increase user participation and motor learning and allow for more effective gait rehabilitation. Adaptive model-based control methods have previously been developed to consider a user’s interaction with an exoskeleton; however, the predefined dynamics models required are challenging to define accurately, due to the complex dynamics and nonlinearities of the human-exoskeleton interaction. Model-free deep reinforcement learning (DRL) approaches can provide accurate and robust control in robotics applications and have shown potential for lower-body exoskeletons. In this paper, we present a new model-free DRL method for end-to-end learning of desired gait patterns for over-ground gait rehabilitation with an exoskeleton. This control technique is the first to accurately track any gait pattern desired in physiotherapy without requiring a predefined dynamics model and is robust to varying post-stroke individuals’ baseline gait patterns and their interactions and perturbations. Simulated experiments of an exoskeleton paired to a musculoskeletal model show that the DRL method is robust to different post-stroke users and is able to accurately track desired gait pattern trajectories both seen and unseen in training.
The Temporality of Contemporaneity and Contemporary Art: Kant, Kentridge and Cave Art as Elective Contemporaries
Authors: Hughes Fiona
Published: December 2021

This article contributes to understanding of Contemporary Art and of the temporality of contemporaneity, along with the philosophy of time more generally. I propose a diachronic contemporaneity over time gaps – elective contemporaneity – through examination of Kant’s Transcendental Aesthetic, the Third Analogy and the concept of ‘following’ among artistic geniuses; diachronic recognition and disjunctive synchronicity discoverable in William Kentridge’s multimedia artworks; as well as non-chronological temporal implications of superimpositions in late Palaeolithic cave art suggesting ‘graphic respect’. Elective contemporaneity shows up complexity in relations to past and present, putting in question definitions of ‘Contemporary Art’ restricted to either chronology or supposedly definitive paradigms.
Smartphone Use and Well-Being in Two Contexts
Authors: O’Toole Kathryn J.
Published: December 2021

Abstract. Excessive smartphone use is a growing concern in many societies around the world today. To date, attention has primarily been paid to psychological correlates of use, including well-being, with less work concentrating on the role that context plays in smartphone use. This was the goal of the current project. College student smartphone use was measured twice over 1 week in two contexts – a college campus and an outdoor camp – and participant well-being was measured using the SPANE. The findings indicate that daily smartphone use significantly decreased for camp participants and significantly increased for campus participants, and latency to use a phone upon waking significantly increased for camp participants but remained stable for campus participants. Additionally, waiting longer to use a phone upon waking at the end of the week significantly predicted reduced well-being but only for camp participants. Overall, these findings suggest that setting is an important contextual variable to consider when pursuing an understanding of the complex relation between smartphone use and well-being.
The Relationship Between Facebook Intrusion and Self-Control	Dimensions Among Facebook Users
Authors: Cudo Andrzej , Torój Małgorzata , Orzechowski Jarosław , Misiuro Tomasz
Published: December 2021

Abstract. Previous studies have shown the essential role of self-control in the development of behavioral addiction such as gaming, Internet, or gambling addiction. On the one hand, most studies have considered self-control as a homogeneous phenomenon. On the other hand, little evidence has been found on the relationship between the self-control dimensions and Facebook intrusion (FI). Additionally, research on the relationship between the dimensions of self-control and FI has only been conducted on a group of gamers. Consequently, the aim of this study was to test the relationship between FI and the self-control dimensions among young Facebook users who were not gamers. A total of 991 individuals (785 females) took part in the study. The self-control dimensions were assessed with NAS-50 and FI was assessed with the Facebook Intrusion Scale. Taking into account the results of the structural equation analysis, the findings showed a significant relationship between FI and self-control dimensions such as inhibition and adjournment, initiative and persistence, and goal maintenance among young Facebook users. Based on this study, it can be concluded that the behavioral mechanism connected with FI may be primarily associated with a low ability to suppress or delay unwanted or improper actions and that this may contribute to the failure of goal-directed behavior. It can also be assumed that this mechanism is associated with a low ability to focus on goals and a low ability to induce efficient motivation and have persistence to achieve higher-order goals.
Bright Lights, Big Cities Attract Migratory Birds
Authors: Phan Brian
Published: December 2021

The first stopover site map for U.S. migratory birds reveals the attraction of urban light pollution.
Spatial Heterogeneity of Uplift Pattern in the Western European Alps Revealed by InSAR Time‐Series Analysis
Authors: Mathey M. , Doin M.‐P. , André P. , Walpersdorf A. , Baize S. , Sue C.
Published: December 2021

The Western European Alps display measurable surface deformation rates from leveling and GNSS data. Based on the time‐series analysis of 4 years of Sentinel‐1 data, we propose for the first time an InSAR‐based mapping of the uplift pattern affecting the Western Alps on a ∼350 × 175‐km‐wide area. This approach provides a denser spatial distribution of vertical motion despite the high noise level inherent to mountainous areas and the low expected deformation signal. Our results show consistency with other geodetic measurements at the regional scale, and reveal smaller‐scale spatial variations in the uplift pattern. Higher uplift rates are found within the external crystalline massifs compared to surrounding areas, in agreement with the variations expected from recent deglaciation and long‐term exhumation data. This work brings the first InSAR‐based geodetic clue of differential uplift within the Alpine belt in response to the surface and deep processes affecting the belt.
Extreme Tropical Precipitation Clusters Show Strong Increases in Frequency Under Global Warming in CMIP6 Models
Authors: Dulguerov Leilani , Ahmed Fiaz , Neelin J. David
Published: December 2021

Precipitation clusters are spatially contiguous precipitating regions. Large clusters in the tropics are rare, extreme events that include organized precipitating systems. Changes to the probability distributions of tropical precipitation clusters under global warming are examined using models from the coupled model intercomparison project Phase 6 (CMIP6). Every analyzed model projects significant increases in frequencies of both very large‐sized clusters and clusters with very large area‐integrated precipitation (cluster power). The occurrence probability for the highest historical cluster power values increases by a factor between 4 and 15 among models in the end‐of‐century SSP5‐8.5 scenario. These changes primarily occur over the precipitating tropics: the western Pacific, Indian subcontinent, central and east Pacific convergence zones, and parts of South America. This spatial pattern is largely explained by Clausius‐Clapeyron scaling of current climate cluster power values. Societal impacts of cluster power increases could be acute in coastal regions of the Indian subcontinent and western Pacific islands.
Long‐Term Changes in Runoff Generation Mechanisms for Two Proglacial Areas in the Swiss Alps II: Subsurface Flow
Authors: Maier Fabian , van Meerveld Ilja , Weiler Markus
Published: December 2021

Lateral subsurface stormflow (SSF) is the most important runoff generation mechanism for most hillslopes in temperate climates. It is influenced by pedological, biological, and topographic factors that change during landscape evolution, but so far little is known about how SSF changes over long‐time scales. Therefore, we conducted sprinkling experiments on a silicate and carbonate moraine chronosequence in the Swiss Alps. Each chronosequence consisted of four moraines ranging between a couple of decades and ∼13,500 years in age. On each moraine, we installed three plots and measured shallow SSF in a trench. We added tracers (δ2H and NaCl) to the sprinkling water to identify mixing and flow pathways in the subsurface. The coarse and drainable sediments on the young moraines provoked more frequent and larger SSF responses than for the old moraines. There was no SSF during the sprinkling experiments on the older moraines at the calcareous study area, but SSF occurred during larger natural rainfall events. The pre‐event water fractions in SSF were higher for the old moraines than the young moraines due to the increase in silt, clay, and soil organic matter content, and subsequent increase in the amount of water stored in the soil. The results of this study suggest that soil and vegetation development affect SSF characteristics and help—together with the results for overland flow (companion paper; Maier & van Meerveld, 2021, https://doi.org/10.1029/2021WR030221)—to improve hydrological models and our understanding of the changes in near‐surface runoff generation processes during the first millennia of landscape evolution in Alpine areas.
The Lasting Signatures of Past Landslides on Soil Stripping From Landscapes
Authors: Fan Linfeng , Lehmann Peter , Zheng Chunmiao , Or Dani
Published: December 2021

Rainfall‐induced shallow landslides scar the Earth surface and deliver sediment pulses into fluvial systems and thus play an important role in landscape evolution. Previous landslide legacy affects local soil depths and soil regeneration rates thus modifying future landslide susceptibility and sediment dynamics. Here, we couple an advanced hydromechanical landslide model with a soil depth regeneration model and quantify landslide legacy effects by placing landslide dynamics in a perspective of landscape soil depth evolution. Results show increased landslide susceptibility near recently failed regions due to alteration of hydrological processes in a thinner soil mantle that imposes constraints on released soil volumes. Landslide recurrence in failed regions levels off when soil depths are gradually restored to steady state pre‐failure values. Cumulative effects of past landslides divert future landslide activity from steep hillslopes to alluvial channels and valley margins thus affecting sediment dynamics and yields. Consideration of landslide legacy improves landslide prediction and quantification of landslide erosion and fluvial sediment yield rates.
Randomised controlled trial of intermittent vs continuous energy restriction during chemotherapy for early breast cancer
Authors: Harvie Michelle , Pegington Mary , Howell Sacha J. , Bundred Nigel , Foden Phil , Adams Judith , Graves Lee , Greystoke Alastair , Mattson Mark P. , Cutler Roy G. , Williamson Julie , Livingstone Karen , McMullen Debbie , Sellers Katharine , Lombardelli Cheryl , Cooper Grace , McDiarmid Sarah , Howell Anthony
Published: December 2021

Background

Excess adiposity at diagnosis and weight gain during chemotherapy is associated with tumour recurrence and chemotherapy toxicity. We assessed the efficacy of intermittent energy restriction (IER) vs continuous energy restriction (CER) for weight control and toxicity reduction during chemotherapy.

Methods

One hundred and seventy-two women were randomised to follow IER or CER throughout adjuvant/neoadjuvant chemotherapy. Primary endpoints were weight and body fat change. Secondary endpoints included chemotherapy toxicity, cardiovascular risk markers, and correlative markers of metabolism, inflammation and oxidative stress.

Results

Primary analyses showed non-significant reductions in weight (−1.1 (−2.4 to +0.2) kg, p = 0.11) and body fat (−1.0 (−2.1 to +0.1) kg, p = 0.086) in IER compared with CER. Predefined secondary analyses adjusted for body water showed significantly greater reductions in weight (−1.4 (−2.5 to −0.2) kg, p = 0.024) and body fat (−1.1 (−2.1 to −0.2) kg, p = 0.046) in IER compared with CER. Incidence of grade 3/4 toxicities were comparable overall (IER 31.0 vs CER 36.5%, p = 0.45) with a trend to fewer grade 3/4 toxicities with IER (18%) vs CER (31%) during cycles 4–6 of primarily taxane therapy (p = 0.063).

Conclusions

IER is feasible during chemotherapy. The potential efficacy for weight control and reducing toxicity needs to be tested in future larger trials.

Clinical trial registration

ISRCTN04156504.
Capillary flow experiments for thermodynamic and kinetic characterization of protein liquid-liquid phase separation
Authors: Stender Emil G. P. , Ray Soumik , Norrild Rasmus K. , Larsen Jacob Aunstrup , Petersen Daniel , Farzadfard Azad , Galvagnion Céline , Jensen Henrik , Buell Alexander K.
Published: December 2021

Liquid-liquid phase separation or LLPS of proteins is a field of mounting importance and the value of quantitative kinetic and thermodynamic characterization of LLPS is increasingly recognized. We present a method, Capflex, which allows rapid and accurate quantification of key parameters for LLPS: Dilute phase concentration, relative droplet size distributions, and the kinetics of droplet formation and maturation into amyloid fibrils. The binding affinity between the polypeptide undergoing LLPS and LLPS-modulating compounds can also be determined. We apply Capflex to characterize the LLPS of Human DEAD-box helicase-4 and the coacervate system ssDNA/RP3. Furthermore, we study LLPS and the aberrant liquid-to-solid phase transition of α-synuclein. We quantitatively measure the decrease in dilute phase concentration as the LLPS of α-synuclein is followed by the formation of Thioflavin-T positive amyloid aggregates. The high information content, throughput and the versatility of Capflex makes it a valuable tool for characterizing biomolecular LLPS.
Piezoelectricity in hafnia
Authors: Dutta Sangita , Buragohain Pratyush , Glinsek Sebastjan , Richter Claudia , Aramberri Hugo , Lu Haidong , Schroeder Uwe , Defay Emmanuel , Gruverman Alexei , Íñiguez Jorge
Published: December 2021

Because of its compatibility with semiconductor-based technologies, hafnia (HfO2) is today’s most promising ferroelectric material for applications in electronics. Yet, knowledge on the ferroic and electromechanical response properties of this all-important compound is still lacking. Interestingly, HfO2 has recently been predicted to display a negative longitudinal piezoelectric effect, which sets it apart from classic ferroelectrics (e.g., perovskite oxides like PbTiO3) and is reminiscent of the behavior of some organic compounds. The present work corroborates this behavior, by first-principles calculations and an experimental investigation of HfO2 thin films using piezoresponse force microscopy. Further, the simulations show how the chemical coordination of the active oxygen atoms is responsible for the negative longitudinal piezoelectric effect. Building on these insights, it is predicted that, by controlling the environment of such active oxygens (e.g., by means of an epitaxial strain), it is possible to change the sign of the piezoelectric response of the material.
Critical Assessment of MetaProteome Investigation (CAMPI): a multi-laboratory comparison of established workflows
Authors: Van Den Bossche Tim , Kunath Benoit J. , Schallert Kay , Schäpe Stephanie S. , Abraham Paul E. , Armengaud Jean , Arntzen Magnus Ø. , Bassignani Ariane , Benndorf Dirk , Fuchs Stephan , Giannone Richard J. , Griffin Timothy J. , Hagen Live H. , Halder Rashi , Henry Céline , Hettich Robert L. , Heyer Robert , Jagtap Pratik , Jehmlich Nico , Jensen Marlene , Juste Catherine , Kleiner Manuel , Langella Olivier , Lehmann Theresa , Leith Emma , May Patrick , Mesuere Bart , Miotello Guylaine , Peters Samantha L. , Pible Olivier , Queiros Pedro T. , Reichl Udo , Renard Bernhard Y. , Schiebenhoefer Henning , Sczyrba Alexander , Tanca Alessandro , Trappe Kathrin , Trezzi Jean-Pierre , Uzzau Sergio , Verschaffelt Pieter , von Bergen Martin , Wilmes Paul , Wolf Maximilian , Martens Lennart , Muth Thilo
Published: December 2021

Metaproteomics has matured into a powerful tool to assess functional interactions in microbial communities. While many metaproteomic workflows are available, the impact of method choice on results remains unclear. Here, we carry out a community-driven, multi-laboratory comparison in metaproteomics: the critical assessment of metaproteome investigation study (CAMPI). Based on well-established workflows, we evaluate the effect of sample preparation, mass spectrometry, and bioinformatic analysis using two samples: a simplified, laboratory-assembled human intestinal model and a human fecal sample. We observe that variability at the peptide level is predominantly due to sample processing workflows, with a smaller contribution of bioinformatic pipelines. These peptide-level differences largely disappear at the protein group level. While differences are observed for predicted community composition, similar functional profiles are obtained across workflows. CAMPI demonstrates the robustness of present-day metaproteomics research, serves as a template for multi-laboratory studies in metaproteomics, and provides publicly available data sets for benchmarking future developments.
Directly recruited GATA6 + peritoneal cavity macrophages contribute to the repair of intestinal serosal injury
Authors: Honda Masaki , Kadohisa Masashi , Yoshii Daiki , Komohara Yoshihiro , Hibi Taizo
Published: December 2021

Recruitment of bone marrow derived monocytes via bloodstream and their subsequent conversion to CX3CR1+ macrophages in response to intestinal injury is dependent on CCR2, Nr4a1, and the microbiome. This process is critical for proper tissue repair; however, GATA6+ peritoneal cavity macrophages might represent an alternative, more readily available source of mature and functional myeloid cells at the damaged intestinal locations. Here we show, using spinning-disk confocal microscopy, that large F4/80hiGATA6+ peritoneal cavity macrophages promptly accumulate at damaged intestinal sites upon intestinal thermal injury and upon dextran sodium sulfate induced colitis in mice via a direct route from the peritoneal cavity. In contrast to bloodstream derived monocytes/macrophages, cavity macrophages do not depend on CCR2, Nr4a1 or the microbiome for recruitment, but rather on the ATP-release and exposed hyaluronan at the site of injury. They participate in the removal of necrotic cells, revascularization and collagen deposition and thus resolution of tissue damage. In summary, peritoneal cavity macrophages represent a rapid alternative route of intestinal tissue repair to traditional monocyte-derived macrophages.
The impact of sleep, physical activity and sedentary behaviour on symptoms of depression and anxiety before and during the COVID-19 pandemic in a sample of South African participants
Authors: Lewis R. , Roden L. C. , Scheuermaier K. , Gomez-Olive F. X. , Rae D. E. , Iacovides S. , Bentley A. , Davy J. P. , Christie C. J. , Zschernack S. , Roche J. , Lipinska G.
Published: December 2021

During lockdowns associated with the COVID-19 pandemic, individuals have experienced poor sleep quality and sleep regularity, changes in lifestyle behaviours, and heightened depression and anxiety. However, the inter-relationship and relative strength of those behaviours on mental health outcomes is still unknown. We collected data between 12 May and 15 June 2020 from 1048 South African adults (age: 32.76 ± 14.43 years; n = 767 female; n = 473 students) using an online questionnaire. Using structural equation modelling, we investigated how insomnia symptoms, sleep regularity, exercise intensity/frequency and sitting/screen-use (sedentary screen-use) interacted to predict depressive and anxiety-related symptoms before and during lockdown. We also controlled for the effects of sex and student status. Irrespective of lockdown, (a) more severe symptoms of insomnia and greater sedentary screen-use predicted greater symptoms of depression and anxiety and (b) the effects of sedentary screen-use on mental health outcomes were mediated by insomnia. The effects of physical activity on mental health outcomes, however, were only significant during lockdown. Low physical activity predicted greater insomnia symptom severity, which in turn predicted increased depressive and anxiety-related symptoms. Overall, relationships between the study variables and mental health outcomes were amplified during lockdown. The findings highlight the importance of maintaining physical activity and reducing sedentary screen-use to promote better sleep and mental health.
Burial of microplastics in freshwater sediments facilitated by iron-organo flocs
Authors: Leiser Rico , Schumann Maja , Dadi Tallent , Wendt-Potthoff Katrin
Published: December 2021

Microplastics are ubiquitous in standing freshwater bodies, consequently lakes and reservoirs may be important sinks for these contaminants. However, the mechanisms governing the deposition of microplastics and their interactions with the sediments are understudied. We demonstrate how aggregation-based transport facilitates the sinking and infiltration of buoyant microplastics into freshwater reservoir sediments by employing experiments with intact sediment cores. Buoyant polyethylene microplastics were rapidly (1–4 h) incorporated into sinking iron-organic aggregates, followed by swift deposition into sediments. Ingression of microplastic bearing flocs into sediments was completed within 6 days and led to stable deposition of the incorporated particles for at least 2 months. Most microplastics were deposited in the top 2 cm of the sediments and few particles (5–15%) were re-released into the water. Our results show at least 85% burial of microplastics, indicating the significant role of freshwaters with low flow velocities in reducing microplastic loads to the oceans.
Causal motifs and existence of endogenous cascades in directed networks with application to company defaults
Authors: Barjašić Irena , Štefančić Hrvoje , Pribičević Vedrana , Zlatić Vinko
Published: December 2021

Motivated by the problem of detection of cascades of defaults in economy, we developed a detection framework for an endogenous spreading based on causal motifs we define in this paper. We assume that the change of state of a vertex can be triggered either by an endogenous (related to the network) or an exogenous (unrelated to the network) event, that the underlying network is directed and that times when vertices changed their states are available. After simulating default cascades driven by different stochastic processes on different synthetic networks, we show that some of the smallest causal motifs can robustly detect endogenous spreading events. Finally, we apply the method to the data of defaults of Croatian companies and observe the time window in which an endogenous cascade was likely happening.
A functional spleen contributes to afucosylated IgG in humans
Authors: Wojcik Iwona , Schmidt David E. , de Neef Lisa A. , Rab Minke A. E. , Meek Bob , de Weerdt Okke , Wuhrer Manfred , van der Schoot C. Ellen , Zwaginga Jaap J. , de Haas Masja , Falck David , Vidarsson Gestur
Published: December 2021

As a lymphoid organ, the spleen hosts a wide range of immune cell populations, which not only remove blood-borne antigens, but also generate and regulate antigen-specific immune responses. In particular, the splenic microenvironment has been demonstrated to play a prominent role in adaptive immune responses to enveloped viral infections and alloantigens. During both types of immunizations, antigen-specific immunoglobulins G (IgGs) have been characterized by the reduced amount of fucose present on N-linked glycans of the fragment crystallizable (Fc) region. These glycans are essential for mediating the induction of immune effector functions. Therefore, we hypothesized that a spleen may modulate humoral responses and serve as a preferential site for afucosylated IgG responses, which potentially play a role in immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) pathogenesis. To determine the role of the spleen in IgG-Fc glycosylation, we performed IgG subclass-specific liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC–MS) analysis of Fc glycosylation in a large cohort of individuals splenectomized due to trauma, due to ITP, or spherocytosis. IgG-Fc fucosylation was consistently increased after splenectomy, while no effects for IgG-Fc galactosylation and sialylation were observed. An increase in IgG1- and IgG2/3-Fc fucosylation level upon splenectomy has been reported here for the first time, suggesting that immune responses occurring in the spleen may be particularly prone to generate afucosylated IgG responses. Surprisingly, the level of total IgG-Fc fucosylation was decreased in ITP patients compared to healthy controls. Overall, our results suggest a yet unrecognized role of the spleen in either the induction or maintenance of afucosylated IgG responses by B cells.
A data-driven approach to measuring epidemiological susceptibility risk around the world
Authors: Bitetto Alessandro , Cerchiello Paola , Mertzanis Charilaos
Published: December 2021

Epidemic outbreaks are extreme events that become more frequent and severe, associated with large social and real costs. It is therefore important to assess whether countries are prepared to manage epidemiological risks. We use a fully data-driven approach to measure epidemiological susceptibility risk at the country level using time-varying information. We apply both principal component analysis (PCA) and dynamic factor model (DFM) to deal with the presence of strong cross-section dependence in the data. We conduct extensive in-sample model evaluations of 168 countries covering 17 indicators for the 2010–2019 period. The results show that the robust PCA method accounts for about 90% of total variability, whilst the DFM accounts for about 76% of the total variability. Our index could therefore provide the basis for developing risk assessments of epidemiological risk contagion. It could be also used by organizations to assess likely real consequences of epidemics with useful managerial implications.
Preliminary feasibility assessment of CDM-based active surveillance using current status of medical device data in medical records and OMOP-CDM
Authors: Choi Sooin , Choi Soo Jeong , Kim Jin Kuk , Nam Ki Chang , Lee Suehyun , Kim Ju Han , Lee You Kyoung
Published: December 2021

In recent years, there has been an emerging interest in the use of claims and electronic health record (EHR) data for evaluation of medical device safety and effectiveness. In Korea, national insurance electronic data interchange (EDI) code has been used as a medical device data source for common data model (CDM). This study performed a preliminary feasibility assessment of CDM-based vigilance. A cross-sectional study of target medical device data in EHR and CDM was conducted. A total of 155 medical devices were finally enrolled, with 58.7% of them having EDI codes. Femoral head prosthesis was selected as a focus group. It was registered in our institute with 11 EDI codes. However, only three EDI codes were converted to systematized nomenclature of medicine clinical terms concept. EDI code was matched in one-to-many (up to 104) with unique device identifier (UDI), including devices classified as different global medical device nomenclature. The use of UDI rather than EDI code as a medical device data source is recommended. We hope that this study will share the current state of medical device data recorded in the EHR and contribute to the introduction of CDM-based medical device vigilance by selecting appropriate medical device data sources.
Determinants of falls after stroke based on data on 5065 patients from the Swedish Väststroke and Riksstroke Registers
Authors: Persson Carina U. , Hansson Per-Olof
Published: December 2021

We aimed to identify determinants in acute stroke that are associated with falls during the stroke unit stay. In order to enable individualized preventive actions, this knowledge is fundamental. Based on local and national quality register data on an unselected sample of 5065 stroke patients admitted to a stroke unit at a Swedish university hospital, univariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed. The dependent variable was any fall during stroke unit stay. The independent variables related to function, activity, personal factors, time to assessment, comorbidities and treatments. Determinants of falls were: being male (odds ratio (OR) 2.25, 95% confidence interval (95% CI) 1.79–2.84), haemorrhagic stroke (OR 1.39, 95% CI 1.05–1.86), moderate stroke symptoms according to the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS score 2–5 vs. NIHSS score 0–1) (OR 1.43, 95% CI 1.08–1.90), smoking (OR 1.70, 95% CI 1.29–2.25), impaired postural control in walking (OR 4.61, 95% CI 3.29–6.46), impaired postural control in standing (OR 1.60, 95% CI 1.25–2.05), stroke-related arm- and hand problems, OR 1.45, 95% CI 1.11–1.91), impaired cognition (OR 1.43, 95% CI 1.04–1.95), and urinary tract infection (OR 1.91, 95% CI 1.43–2.56). The findings from this study are useful in clinical practice and might help to improve patient safety after stroke.
RETRACTED ARTICLE: A brief comparative examination of tangent hyperbolic hybrid nanofluid through a extending surface: numerical Keller–Box scheme
Authors: Jamshed Wasim , Prakash M. , Devi S. Suriya Uma , Ibrahim Rabha W. , Shahzad Faisal , Nisar Kottakkaran Sooppy , Eid Mohamed R. , Abdel-Aty Abdel-Haleem , Khashan M. Motawi , Yahia I. S.
Published: December 2021

A novel hybrid nanofluid was explored in order to find an efficient heat-transmitting fluid to replace standard fluids and revolutionary nanofluids. By using tangent hyperbolic hybrid combination nanoliquid with non-Newtonian ethylene glycol (EG) as a basis fluid and a copper (Cu) and titanium dioxide (TiO2) mixture, this work aims to investigate the viscoelastic elements of the thermal transferring process. Flow and thermal facts, such as a slippery extended surface with magnetohydrodynamic (MHD), suction/injection, form factor, Joule heating, and thermal radiation effects, including changing thermal conductivity, were also integrated. The Keller–Box method was used to perform collective numerical computations of parametric analysis using governing equivalences. In the form of graphs and tables, the results of TiO2–Cu/EG hybrid nanofluid were compared to those of standard Cu/EG nanofluid in important critical physical circumstances. The entropy generation study was used to examine energy balance and usefulness for important physically impacting parameters. Detailed scrutiny on entropy development get assisted with Weissenberg number, magnetic parameter, fractional volumes, injection parameter, thermal radiation, variable thermal conductivity, Biot number, shape variation parameter, Reynolds and Brinkman number. Whereas the entropy gets resisted for slip and suction parameter. In this case, spotted entropy buildup with important parametric ranges could aid future optimization.
DNA barcodes evidence the contact zone of eastern and western caddisfly lineages in the Western Carpathians
Authors: Bozáňová Jana , Čiampor Fedor , Mamos Tomasz , Grabowski Michal , Čiamporová-Zat’ovičová Zuzana
Published: December 2021

The region of the Western Carpathians is, among other aspects, very important for survival and diversity of European freshwater fauna due to the presence of a large number of (sub)mountain springs and streams. However, these ecologically and faunistically diversified habitats are still understudied in the context of genetic diversity and population structure of their inhabitants. This study focuses on genetic diversity and distribution patterns of the caddisfly Rhyacophila tristis, common and widespread representative of mountain freshwater fauna. Analysis of the COI mitochondrial marker revealed presence of the western and eastern lineages, with samples from both lineages being grouped in BOLD (Barcode of Life Data System) into separate BINs (Barcode Index Numbers). Our data indicates that eastern lineage (BIN_E) is more closely related to the Balkan populations than to co-occurring western lineage (BIN_W), and that the contact zone of the lineages passes through the W Carpathians. The study revealed phylogeographic and demographic differences between lineages, supporting hypothesis of their evolutionary independence and specific ecological preferences. The obtained genetic data of the R. tristis population from W Carpathians improved our knowledge about population genetics of this aquatic species and can contribute to understanding the state and evolution of biodiversity of freshwater ecosystems in Europe.