bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tailored Local Electronic Environment of Co‐N4 Sites in Cobalt Phthalocyanines for Enhanced CO2 Reduction Reaction
Authors: Huang Mengying , Chen Baotong , Zhang Hao , Jin Yucheng , Zhi Qianjun , Yang Tao , Wang Kang , Jiang Jianzhuang
Published: April 2024

Atomically dispersed Co‐N4‐based catalysts have been recently emerging as one of the most promising candidates for facilitating CO2 reduction reaction (CO2RR). The local electronic environment of Co‐N4 sites in these catalysts is considered to play a critical role in adjusting the catalytic performance, the effort of which however is not yet clearly verified. Herein, a series of cobalt phthalocyanines with different peripheral substituents including unsubstituted phthalocyanine Co(II) (CoPc), 2,9,16,23‐tetramethoxyphthalocyaninato Co(II) (CoPc‐4OCH3), and 2,9,16,23‐tetranitrophthalocyaninato Co(II) (CoPc‐4NO2) are supported onto the surface of the multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (CNTs), affording CoPc@CNTs, CoPc‐4OCH3@CNTs, and CoPc‐4NO2@CNTs. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy and X‐ray absorption near‐edge structure measurements disclose the influence of the peripheral substituents on the local electronic structure of Co atoms in these three catalysts. Electrochemical tests indicate the higher CO2RR performance of CoPc‐4OCH3@CNTs compared to CoPc@CNTs and CoPc‐4NO2@CNTs as exemplified by the higher Faraday efficiency of CO, larger part current densities, and better stability displayed by CoPc‐4OCH3@CNTs at the applied voltage range from −0.6 to −1.0 V versus RHE in both H‐cell and flow cell. These results highlight the effect of the electron‐donating ‐OCH3 substituent on the enhanced catalytic activity of CoPc‐4OCH3@CNTs, which will help develop Co‐N4‐based catalysts with promising catalytic performance toward CO2RR.
An efficient provably secure authentication and key agreement protocol for satellite communication networks
Authors: Thakur Garima , Obaidat Mohammad S. , Sharma Piyush , Prajapat Sunil , Kumar Pankaj
Published: April 2024

The leverage of satellite resources to establish a communication network offers a wide range of benefits, including the capability to support news gathering, broadcasting, and aeronautical and maritime tracking. The unique aspects of the satellite‐linked terrestrial network provide high‐speed services, dependable and consistent network quality, and comprehensive geographic coverage of remote regions. Unfortunately, these structural features also render the network vulnerable to unauthorized intrusion, potentially leading to significant disruptions. Consequently, the implementation of authentication measures presents an appealing solution for enhancing the overall service quality of this network. Recently, Kumar et al. presented an authentication and key agreement scheme for satellite communications. Strikingly, their scheme proves inadequate in safeguarding against several malicious attacks and reveals certain design weaknesses. In this article, we present a reliable and secure authentication protocol that takes advantage of the complexities inherent in the elliptic curve discrete logarithm problem. We assess the protocol's effectiveness against various types of attacks using formal proof, Burrows–Abadi–Needham logic, informal descriptive proof analysis, and the verification tool SCYTHER. Furthermore, we compare the computational, communication, and storage overhead of our proposed protocol to an existing one, demonstrating its efficiency and superiority.
STUB1 promotes the degradation of HSPB1 and induces ferroptosis in lung cancer cells
Authors: Tieliwaerdi Aishanjiang , Aini Abudu , Amuti Mulatijiang , Aierken Yiliyaer , Nijiati Maimaitijiang , Luo Bo
Published: April 2024

Lung cancer is a common malignancy characterized by ferroptosis, an iron‐dependent form of cell death caused by excessive lipid peroxidation. The disruption of the ubiquitination system plays a crucial role in tumor development and spread. In recent years, there has been increasing interest in utilizing ferroptosis for lung cancer treatment; however, the precise mechanism of how ubiquitination modulates ferroptosis remains unclear. We used databases to analyze STUB1 expression patterns in lung cancer tissues compared to normal tissues and performed immunohistochemistry. The functional role of STUB1 was investigated through gain‐of‐function and loss‐of‐function experiments both in vitro and in vivo. Malondialdehyde levels, Fe2+ content, and cell viability assays were employed to evaluate ferroptosis status. Downstream targets of STUB1 were identified through screening and validated using immunoprecipitation and ubiquitination assays. Our findings demonstrate that STUB1 is downregulated in lung cancer cells and functions as an inhibitor of their growth and metastasis both in vitro and in vivo while promoting ferroptosis. Mechanistically, STUB1 induces ferroptosis through E3 ligase‐dependent degradation of the ferroptosis suppressor HSPB1. Furthermore, our study elucidated the specific types and sites of modification on HSPB1 mediated by STUB1. This research establishes STUB1 as a tumor suppressor influencing proliferation of lung cancer cells as well as the epithelial‐mesenchymal transition process associated with it. Importantly, our work highlights the role of STUB1 in ubiquitination‐mediated degradation of HSPB1, providing insights for potential treatments for lung cancer.
Novel strategies for enhanced fluorescence visualization of glioblastoma tumors based on HPMA copolymers conjugated with tumor targeting and/or cell‐penetrating peptides
Authors: Grosmanová Eliška , Pola Robert , Filipová Marcela , Henry Maxime , Coll Jean‐Luc , Etrych Tomáš
Published: April 2024

Nano‐sized polymer systems are often used as carriers for drugs and contrast agents to increase circulation time and solubility and to reduce possible side effects. These nanomedicines usually accumulate in tumor tissue due to the enhanced permeability and retention (EPR) effect. However, a targeting group may be attached to the polymer carrier in addition to the active substance to further increase tumor accumulation and specificity. In this study, the oligopeptide sequence RGD was chosen to target αvβ3 integrins overexpressed in the tumor vasculature and on some tumor cells. A set of polymer conjugates bearing a fluorescent dye and RGD peptide of different structures (linear, cyclic, branched) was prepared for use in tumor diagnosis, with a potential future application in navigated surgery. The accumulation of the most promising candidate, a targeted fluorescent nanoprobe, increased by 35% in glioblastoma tumors compared to the non‐targeted control, which accumulated only due to the EPR effect. However, the administration of a polymer‐bound modified cilengitide as an antiangiogenic treatment did not show a beneficial effect in the suppression of angiogenesis.
Establishment of a mouse allergy model for Culicoides (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae)
Authors: Bao Shuncai , Lu Xue , Xiang Shuai , Hou Xiaohui
Published: April 2024

Background

Culicoides is a genus of ubiquitous biting midges (Ceratopogonidae). Female midges have blood‐sucking habit. They not only bite and harass humans and animals but also may be an important vector of disease transmission. Therefore, building an animal allergy model caused by Culicoides biting is very beneficial for studying its pathogenesis and exploring the therapeutic methods.

Material and method

Kunming mice were used in this study to build the model and sensitised by two‐step injection of midge extracts. Scratching behaviour and histological examination were used to check the immediate and delayed responses. Immunoglobulin E (IgE) and Immunoglobulin G (IgG) were detected using indirect enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) assay. Splenic cell proliferation and cytokine production were determined using 3‐(4, 5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2, 5‐diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT) and ELISA assays. The response of cytokine gene expression to midge stimulation was analysed through quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR).

Results

Behavioural results revealed a significant increase in scratching frequency among the midge‐sensitised animals (p < 0.05). Histological examination showed more inflammatory cytokine infiltration at the injection site of midge‐sensitised mice comparing to the ones in the control group. The serum levels of IgE and IgG1 antibodies in the midge‐sensitised group were significantly elevated (p < 0.05). After splenocytes were stimulated in vitro with midge extracts, the midge‐sensitised group's splenocyte count significantly increased in comparison to the control group. The midge‐sensitised group's qPCR data revealed a down‐regulation of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF‐α) expression and an increase in the expression of interleukin (IL)‐4, IL‐5, IL‐10 and IL‐13 but not in the control group (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

In this study, an animal model of Culicoides–mouse sensitisation was successfully constructed using a two‐step method. The mode of administration of the model was in good agreement with the natural immune pathway, and the immune response induced by the sensitisation of the model was similar to that produced by the bite of a midge.
Synthesis and application of environmental plasticizers based on benzene polyacid ester
Authors: Zhu Xiaoyuan , Jiang Pingping , Leng Yan , Lu Minjia , Lv Zhihao , Li Yuchao , Li Zhenhua
Published: April 2024

Using benzene‐1,3,5‐tricarboxylic acid, trimellitic anhydride, 2‐propylheptanol and 2‐ethylhexanol as raw materials, four kinds of environmental plasticizers were prepared, which were used as additives for polyvinyl chloride (PVC) products. Compared with commercially available di (2‐ethylhexyl) phthalate (DOP), di (2‐ethylhexyl) terephthalate (DOTP), and tributyl citrate (TBC), the application performance and plasticizing performance were compared. The structure of the target product was analyzed by fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy to verify the fingerprint region of the molecular structure of the product. The properties of plasticized PVC films were tested by thermal weight loss analysis, oven thermal aging test, migration and volatility resistance test, DMA analysis, and scanning electron microscopy. The plasticizing mechanism was confirmed through quantum chemical calculations, and the results of the calculations were in line with the migration outcomes. The results showed that compared with commercially available plasticizers, benzene polyacid ester plasticizers had better thermal stability, and better cold resistance in the polar environments, suitable for high‐temperature and water‐based environments.

Highlights

The four plasticizers prepared in this study were compared with reference plasticizers, and the plasticizing mechanism was validated through quantum chemical calculations.

The PVC film plasticized with benzene polyacid ester prepared in this study demonstrates outstanding thermal stability, surpassing certain plasticizers reported in current literature.

Benzene polyacid esters plasticized PVC film has migration stability under various conditions, it has great potential in packaging and other applications.
How to Monitor an Economy’s Contribution to Meeting Basic Needs
Authors: Joffe Michael
Published: April 2024

Economic outcomes are intermediate between economic outputs and their impact on people’s lives. They represent the major way in which economic activity positively impacts health and wellbeing. The monitoring of such intermediate outcomes has useful measurement properties, because they apply to the whole population, they are present early and allow preventive measures to be undertaken, and they directly indicate where intervention is necessary thereby helping to set the policy agenda.

A provisional list of possible indicators for high-income countries is presented. The choice of items is based on the literature on human needs, and on the literatures on impact—the social determinants of health, and the emerging evidence on the economic determinants of subjective wellbeing. Data on these items are already collected, although some development work is needed to put them in the required format for the proposed monitoring system. It is desirable that the list of economic outcome measures should be standardised internationally, albeit with separate lists for different levels of economic prosperity.

Many items are expressed in terms of “access”, which combines availability and affordability; the criterion is whether or not the need is met, irrespective of how this is achieved. Insecurity is another pervasive issue, because of its impact on people’s quality of life.

Each item would be presented as theproportion unfulfilled, the proportion of the population who lack a particular amenity. This metric corresponds to the commitment to leave no one behind, i.e. the value system that everyone’s basic needs should be met, and is readily understood by most people. This implies that an agreed threshold is required for each item. Economic outcomes would be presented as a dashboard for public discussion and policy development, and as the aggregate measure, theIndex of Economic Outcomes(IEO), for the overall evaluation of economic success.

The use of the proportion unfulfilled highlights inequalities, at least at the lower end of the income scale, implying that there is no need for a separate measure of inequalities as there is with per capita GDP (and with most other measures). It is compatible with different degrees of inequality higher up the scale, and therefore with a range of political views, implying that it can command wide popular support. An important implication of the proportion unfulfilled metric is that it requires representation of the whole population, including “hard-to-reach” groups.

The focus on economic outcomes that meet basic needs while minimising environmental damage corresponds to the perspective of the UN Sustainable Development Goals. The development work involved in establishing the IEO and its component items in the rich world could contribute to future work on the monitoring system for the Goals.
On Homogeneous Spaces for Diagonal Ind-Groups
Authors: Fresse Lucas , Penkov Ivan
Published: April 2024

We study the homogeneous ind-spaces $$\textrm{GL}(\textbf{s})/\textbf{P}$$

GL
(
s
)
/
P

where $$\textrm{GL}(\textbf{s})$$

GL
(
s
)

is a strict diagonal ind-group defined by a supernatural number $$\textbf{s}$$
s
and $$\textbf{P}$$
P
is a parabolic ind-subgroup of $$\textrm{GL}(\textbf{s})$$

GL
(
s
)

. We construct an explicit exhaustion of $$\textrm{GL}(\textbf{s})/\textbf{P}$$

GL
(
s
)
/
P

by finite-dimensional partial flag varieties. As an application, we characterize all locally projective $$\textrm{GL}(\infty )$$

GL
(
∞
)

-homogeneous spaces, and some direct products of such spaces, which are $$\textrm{GL}(\textbf{s})$$

GL
(
s
)

-homogeneous for a fixed $$\textbf{s}$$
s
. The very possibility for a $$\textrm{GL}(\infty )$$

GL
(
∞
)

-homogeneous space to be $$\textrm{GL}(\textbf{s})$$

GL
(
s
)

-homogeneous for a strict diagonal ind-group $$\textrm{GL}(\textbf{s})$$

GL
(
s
)

arises from the fact that the automorphism group of a $$\textrm{GL}(\infty )$$

GL
(
∞
)

-homogeneous space is much larger than $$\textrm{GL}(\infty )$$

GL
(
∞
)

.
A Holistic Approach to Circular Bioeconomy Through the Sustainable Utilization of Microalgal Biomass for Biofuel and Other Value-Added Products
Authors: Ezhumalai Ganesan , Arun Muthukrishnan , Manavalan Arulmani , Rajkumar Renganathan , Heese Klaus
Published: April 2024

Emissions from transportation and industry primarily cause global warming, leading to floods, glacier melt, and rising seas. Widespread greenhouse gas emissions and resulting global warming pose significant risks to the environment, economy, and society. The need for alternative fuels drives the development of third-generation feedstocks: microalgae, seaweed, and cyanobacteria. These microalgae offer traits like rapid growth, high lipid content, non-competition with human food, and growth on non-arable land using brackish or waste water, making them promising for biofuel. These unique phototrophic organisms use sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide (CO2) to produce biofuels, biochemicals, and more. This review delves into the realm of microalgal biofuels, exploring contemporary methodologies employed for lipid extraction, significant value-added products, and the challenges inherent in their commercial-scale production. While the cost of microalgae bioproducts remains high, utilizing wastewater nutrients for cultivation could substantially cut production costs. Furthermore, this review summarizes the significance of biocircular economy approaches, which encompass the utilization of microalgal biomass as a feed supplement and biofertilizer, and biosorption of heavy metals and dyes. Besides, the discussion extends to the in-depth analysis and future prospects on the commercial potential of biofuel within the context of sustainable development. An economically efficient microalgae biorefinery should prioritize affordable nutrient inputs, efficient harvesting techniques, and the generation of valuable by-products.

Graphical Abstract
Synergistic immunomodulatory effect of synbiotics pre- and postoperative resection of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma: a randomized controlled study
Authors: Maher Sara , Elmeligy Hesham A. , Aboushousha Tarek , Helal Noha Said , Ossama Yousra , Rady Mahmoud , Hassan Ahmed Mohamed A. , Kamel Manal
Published: April 2024

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is an aggressive cancer with a highly immunosuppressive microenvironment. This single-blind, randomized study aimed to evaluate the synergistic immunomodulatory effects of synbiotics (probiotics and inulin prebiotics), as well as their impact on postoperative complications and outcomes, compared to the use of probiotics alone. Ninety patients diagnosed with PDAC were enrolled and randomly assigned into three groups: the placebo group, the probiotics group (receiving a mixture of ten strains of Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, and Streptococcus bacteria at a dose of 25 billion CFUs), and the synbiotics group (the same probiotics along with inulin prebiotics). The interventions were administered for 14 days before the surgery and continued for one month postoperatively. Tumor tissue infiltration of CD8 + T cells and the expression of IFN γ were assessed by immunohistochemistry (IHC). Inflammatory cytokines concentrations, including Il 1 B, IL 6, and IL 10, were evaluated as well by ELISA at various time points pre- and postoperative. Furthermore, patients were followed up after the surgery to assess postoperative short-term outcomes. Our results showed a significant elevation of CD8 + T cell proportion and IFN γ expression in the synbiotics group compared to the probiotics group (p = 0.049, p = 0.013, respectively). Inflammatory cytokines showed a significant gradual decrease in the synbiotics group compared to placebo and probiotics-treated groups (p = 0.000 for both). Administration of synbiotics and probiotics significantly decreased the rate of postoperative complications including anastomotic leakage, diarrhea, and abdominal distension (p = 0.032, p = 0.044, p = 0.042, respectively), with a remarkable reduction in bacteremia in the synbiotics group. These results revealed that this synbiotics formulation potentially enhances the immune response and reduces complications associated with surgery.

Clinical trial identification: NCT06199752 (27-12-2023)
High core 1β1,3-galactosyltransferase 1 expression is associated with poor prognosis and promotes cellular radioresistance in lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Chen Yong , Ji Yanyan , Shen Lin , Li Ying , Ren Yue , Shi Hongcan , Li Yue , Wu Yunjiang
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Core 1β1,3-galactosyltransferase 1 (C1GALT1) exhibits elevated expression in multiple cancers. The present study aimed to elucidate the clinical significance of C1GALT1 aberrant expression and its impact on radiosensitivity in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD).

Methods

The C1GALT1 expression and its clinical relevance were investigated through public databases and LUAD tissue microarray analyses. A549 and H1299 cells with either C1GALT1 knockdown or overexpression were further assessed through colony formation, gamma-H2A histone family member X immunofluorescence, 5-ethynyl-2′-deoxyuridine incorporation, and flow cytometry assays. Bioinformatics analysis was used to explore single cell sequencing data, revealing the influence of C1GALT1 on cancer-associated cellular states. Vimentin, N-cadherin, and E-cadherin protein levels were measured through western blotting.

Results

The expression of C1GALT1 was significantly higher in LUAD tissues than in adjacent non-tumor tissues both at mRNA and protein level. High expression of C1GALT1 was correlated with lymph node metastasis, advanced T stage, and poor survival, and was an independent risk factor for overall survival. Radiation notably upregulated C1GALT1 expression in A549 and H1299 cells, while radiosensitivity was increased following C1GALT1 knockdown and decreased following overexpression. Experiment results showed that overexpression of C1GALT1 conferred radioresistance, promoting DNA repair, cell proliferation, and G2/M phase arrest, while inhibiting apoptosis and decreasing E-cadherin expression, alongside upregulating vimentin and N-cadherin in A549 and H1299 cells. Conversely, C1GALT1 knockdown had opposing effects.

Conclusion

Elevated C1GALT1 expression in LUAD is associated with an unfavorable prognosis and contributes to increased radioresistance potentially by affecting DNA repair, cell proliferation, cell cycle regulation, and epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT).
Morphological-metabolic analysis in Streptomyces rimosus microparticle-enhanced cultivations (MPEC)
Authors: Ścigaczewska Anna , Boruta Tomasz , Bizukojć Marcin
Published: April 2024

Streptomyces produce a broad spectrum of biologically active molecules such as oxytetracycline and rimocidin, which are widely used in human and animal treatments. microparticle-enhanced cultivation (MPEC) is one of the tools used for Streptomyces bioprocesses intensification by the control of mycelial morphology. In the present work, morphological changes of Streptomyces rimosus caused by the addition of 10 µm talc microparticles in MPEC were correlated with the biosynthetic activity of the microorganism. Comparing the runs with and without microparticles, major morphological changes were observed in MPEC, including the deformation of pellets, variation of their size, appearance of hyphae and clumps as well as the aggregation of mycelial objects. The presence of talc microparticles also influenced the levels of the studied secondary metabolites produced by S. rimosus. Comparing control and MPEC runs, the addition of talc microparticles increased the amounts of oxytetracycline (9-fold), 2-acetyl-2-decarboxamido-oxytetracycline (7-fold), milbemycin A3+4[O] (3-fold) and CE 108 (1.5-fold), while rimocidin (27-ethyl) and milbemycin β11+4[O] production was reduced. In summary, the addition of talc microparticles to S. rimosus cultivations led to the development of smaller morphological forms like hyphae and clumps as well as to the changes in the amounts of secondary metabolites.

Graphical abstract
miR-17-92a-1 cluster host gene: a key regulator in colorectal cancer development and progression
Authors: Mohajeri Khorasani Amirhossein , Mohammadi Samane , Raghibi Alireza , Haj Mohammad Hassani Behzad , Bazghandi Behina , Mousavi Pegah
Published: April 2024

Colorectal cancer (CRC), recognized among the five most prevalent malignancies and most deadly cancers, manifests multifactorial influences stemming from environmental exposures, dietary patterns, age, and genetic predisposition. Although substantial progress has been made in comprehending the etiology of CRC, the precise genetic components driving its pathogenesis remain incompletely elucidated. Within the expansive repertoire of non-coding RNAs, particular focus has centered on the miR-17-92a-1 cluster host gene (MIR17HG) and its associated miRNAs, which actively participate in diverse cellular processes and frequently exhibit heightened expression in various solid tumors, notably CRC. Therefore, the primary objective of this research is to undertake an extensive inquiry into the regulatory mechanisms, structural features, functional attributes, and potential diagnostic and therapeutic implications associated with this cluster in CRC. Furthermore, the intricate interplay between this cluster and the development and progression of CRC will be explored. Our findings underscore the upregulation of the miR-17-92a-1 cluster host gene (MIR17HG) and its associated miRNAs in CRC compared to normal tissues, thus implying their profound involvement in the progression of CRC. Collectively, these molecules are implicated in critical oncogenic processes, encompassing metastatic activity, regulation of apoptotic pathways, cellular proliferation, and drug resistance. Consequently, these findings shed illuminating insights into the potential of MIR17HG and its associated miRNAs as promising targets for therapeutic interventions in the management of CRC.

Graphical abstract
A novel diagnostic model based on lncRNA PTPRE expression, neutrophil count and red blood cell distribution width for diagnosis of seronegative rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Xia Jinfang , Gao Huali , Tang Jifeng , Jiang Renquan , Xiao Lianbo , Sheng Huiming , Lin Jinpiao
Published: April 2024

Diagnosis of seronegative rheumatoid arthritis (SNRA) is difficult due to the lack of diagnostic markers. The study aims to construct a novel diagnostic model based on long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) expression and laboratory indicators to provide a new idea for diagnostic methods of SNRA. Differentially expressed lncRNAs in peripheral blood cells of RA patients were screened through eukaryotic long noncoding RNA sequencing and validated by quantitative real-time PCR. Meanwhile, the correlation between lncRNAs expression and laboratory indicators was analyzed. The diagnostic value was evaluated by receiver operating characteristic curve analysis. Finally, combined with laboratory indicators, a diagnostic model for SNRA was constructed based on logistic regression and visualized by nomogram. Expression of ADGRE5, FAM157A, PTPN6 and PTPRE in peripheral blood was significantly increased in RA than healthy donors. Meanwhile, we analyzed the relationship between lncRNAs and erythrocyte sedimentation rate, C-reactive protein and CD4 + T cell-related cytokines and transcription factors. Results showed that FAM157A and PTPN6 were positively related to RORγt, and negatively related to GATA3. Moreover, PTPRE has potential discrimination ability between SNRA and healthy donor (AUC = 0.6709). Finally, we constructed a diagnostic model based on PTPRE, neutrophil count and red blood cell distribution width (RDW). The AUC of the model was 0.939 and well-fitted calibration curves. Decision curve analysis indicated the model had better predict performance in SNRA diagnosis. Our study constructed a novel diagnostic model based on PTPRE, neutrophil count and RDW which may serve as a potential tool for the diagnosis of SNRA.
The “bubbles”-study: validation of ultra-short scales for the assessment of positive mental health, life satisfaction, and perceived social support
Authors: Brailovskaia Julia , Teismann Tobias , Precht Lena-Marie , Schneider Silvia , Margraf Jürgen
Published: April 2024

Aim

The positive dimension of mental health should be considered to assess the complete state of a person’s mental health and to protect it. Very brief valid screening instruments implemented in general mental health programs and in therapeutic setting are supportive tools hereby. In the present work, we aimed to develop such tools.

Subject and methods

In two studies (Study 1: N = 1,004; Study 2: N = 1,000) on representative German population samples, we developed and validated three ultra-short scales – the “bubbles” – that consist of only one item per construct based on Positive Mental Health Scale (PMH-Scale; Lukat et al. 2016), Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS; Diener et al. 1985), and Social Support Questionnaire (F-SozU K-6; Lin et al. 2019) for the assessment of the positive mental health dimension. The bubbles are designed in a graphical/visual format.

Results

The results of Study 1 and Study 2 revealed that the bubbles are valid instruments that fit the original instruments on the factor level; the bubbles mostly replicated their association pattern with demographic variables, and with variables that belong to the negative and the positive dimension of mental health.

Conclusions

The shortness of the bubbles prevents participants’ fatigue and motivation decrease. Thus, due to their time- and cost-efficiency, the bubbles can be used as brief screening tools in research (e.g., large-scale studies, longitudinal studies, experience sampling paradigms) and in praxis (e.g., mental health programs). Future research should validate the bubbles in clinical context and cross-national.
Contribution of Red Blood Cells and Platelets to Blood Clot Computed Tomography Imaging and Compressive Mechanical Characteristics
Authors: Cahalane Rachel M. E. , Cruts Janneke M. H. , van Beusekom Heleen M. M. , de Maat Moniek P. M. , Dijkshoorn Marcel , van der Lugt Aad , Gijsen Frank J. H.
Published: April 2024

Thrombus computed tomography (CT) imaging characteristics may correspond with thrombus mechanical properties and thus predict thrombectomy success. The impact of red blood cell (RBC) content on these properties (imaging and mechanics) has been widely studied. However, the additional effect of platelets has not been considered. The objective of the current study was to examine the individual and combined effects of blood clot RBC and platelet content on resultant CT imaging and mechanical characteristics. Human blood clot analogues were prepared from a combination of preselected RBC volumes and platelet concentrations to decouple their contributions. The resulting clot RBC content (%) and platelet content (%) were determined using Martius Scarlet Blue and CD42b staining, respectively. Non-contrast and contrast-enhanced CT (NCCT and CECT) scans were performed to measure the clot densities. CECT density increase was taken as a proxy for clinical perviousness. Unconfined compressive mechanics were analysed by performing 10 cycles of 80% strain. RBC content is the major determinant of clot NCCT density. However, additional consideration of the platelet content improves the association. CECT density increase is influenced by clot platelet and not RBC content. Platelet content is the dominant component driving clot stiffness, especially at high strains. Both RBC and platelet content contribute to the clot’s viscoelastic and plastic compressive properties. The current in vitro results suggest that CT density is reflective of RBC content and subsequent clot viscoelasticity and plasticity, and that perviousness reflects the clot’s platelet content and subsequent stiffness. However, these indications should be confirmed in a clinical stroke cohort.
Awareness of U = U among Sexual and Gender Minorities in Brazil, Mexico, and Peru: Differences According to Self-reported HIV Status
Authors: Konda K. A. , Qquellon J. , Torres T. S. , Vega-Ramirez E. H. , Elorreaga O. , Guillén-Díaz-Barriga C. , Diaz-Sosa D. , Hoagland B. , Guanira J. V. , Benedetti M. , Pimenta C. , Vermandere H. , Bautista-Arredondo S. , Veloso V. G. , Grinsztejn B. , Caceres C. F.
Published: April 2024

The slogan Undetectable equals Untransmittable (U = U) communicates that people living with HIV (PLHIV) who are on antiretroviral therapy (ART) will not transmit HIV to their sexual partners. We describe awareness of U = U among sexual and gender minorities (SGM) living in Brazil, Mexico, and Peru by self-reported HIV status (PLHIV, negative, unknown) during 2021 using an online survey. We estimated two models using Poisson regression for each population group: Model A including socio-demographic factors (country, gender, age, race, education, and income), and then Model B including taking ART (for PLHIV) or risk behavior, ever-taking PrEP, and HIV risk perception (for HIV-negative or of unknown HIV status). A total of 21,590 respondents were included (Brazil: 61%, Mexico: 30%, Peru: 9%). Among HIV-negative (74%) and unknown status (12%), 13% ever used PrEP. Among PLHIV (13%), 93% reported current use of ART. Awareness of U = U was 89% in both Brazil and Mexico, which was higher than in Peru 64%. Awareness of U = U was higher among PLHIV (96%) than HIV-negative (88%) and HIV-unknown (70%). In multivariate models, PLHIV with lower education were less aware of U = U, while those taking ART were more aware. Among HIV-negative, non-cisgender, lower income, and those with lower education had lower awareness of U = U, while individuals ever using PrEP had higher awareness. In conclusion, awareness of U = U varied by HIV status, socio-demographic characteristics, and HIV risk behavior. The concept of U = U should be disseminated through educational strategies and include a focus on SGM to combat HIV stigma.
Multi-item order quantity optimization through stochastic goal programing
Authors: Azimian Alireza , Aouni Belaid
Published: April 2024

Managing multi-item economic order quantity (MIEOQ) problems within an uncertain business environment is a critical challenge. Decision-makers, with a comprehensive understanding of organizational goals and risk tolerances, play a pivotal role in this context. However, existing solutions often inadequately consider decision-maker preferences in MIEOQ problem-solving. The literature suggests that integrating the concept of satisfaction function with stochastic goal programming (SGP) can address this issue. However, the existing SGP approaches struggle with the challenge of effective goal setting. Additionally, employing distinct satisfaction functions for each uncertain goal can complicate threshold setting, diminishing their effectiveness. To tackle these challenges, we introduce a straightforward, yet effective approach called aspiration-free goal programming (AFGP) and integrate it with a unified satisfaction function. AFGP operates by minimizing expected values of deviation variables, eliminating the challenging task of goal setting under uncertainty. A unified satisfaction function is a singular metric applied uniformly across multiple goals, offering a consistent framework for evaluating performance across diverse objectives. This integration forms a preference-sensitive framework that not only captures nuanced trade-offs between conflicting objectives but also enhances decision quality and stakeholder satisfaction. By emphasizing the importance of decision-maker’s preferences and addressing identified issues, our research introduces a practical and effective approach for achieving balanced solutions in uncertain MIEOQ environments.
Species diversity and extinction risk of vertebrate pollinators in India
Authors: Kallivalappil Ratheesh , Grattarola Florencia , de Alwis Pitts Dilkushi , Cotter Sheena C. , Pincheira-Donoso Daniel
Published: April 2024

Animal pollinators underpin the functioning and persistence of ecosystems globally. However, the vital role of pollination is being progressively eroded by the worldwide decline of pollinator species caused by human-induced environmental degradation, resulting in rising costs to biodiversity, agriculture, and economy. Most studies quantifying pollinator diversity and declines have focused on insects, whereas vertebrate pollinators remain comparatively neglected. Here, we present the first comprehensive study quantifying the macroecological patterns of species richness and extinction risk of bird and mammal pollinators in India, a region of extremely high biodiversity and increasing anthropogenic pressure. Our results reveal that hotspots of mammal pollinator diversity are restricted to the south of the Western Ghats, whereas bird pollinator diversity hotspots are scattered throughout the country. Analyses of hotspots of threatened species (based on the IUCN Red List) show that only mammal pollinators are currently classified as threatened in India, whereas multiple hotspots of population declines were observed for birds, and primarily in the Southwest for mammal pollinators. Our analyses failed to identify a role for species traits as drivers of these patterns, whereas most pollinators appear to be threatened by agriculture, logging and hunting for food, and medicinal purposes. Pollinator endangerment has widescale ecological and economic implications such as reduced food production, plant extinction, loss of functional and genetic diversity, and economic damage. We suggest protection of vertebrate pollinators should be emphasised in active conservation agendas in India.
Clinical and Brain Morphometry Predictors of Deep Brain Stimulation Outcome in Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Koivu Maija , Sihvonen Aleksi J. , Eerola-Rautio Johanna , Pauls K. Amande M. , Resendiz-Nieves Julio , Vartiainen Nuutti , Kivisaari Riku , Scheperjans Filip , Pekkonen Eero
Published: April 2024

Subthalamic deep brain stimulation (STN-DBS) is known to improve motor function in advanced Parkinson’s disease (PD) and to enable a reduction of anti-parkinsonian medication. While the levodopa challenge test and disease duration are considered good predictors of STN-DBS outcome, other clinical and neuroanatomical predictors are less established. This study aimed to evaluate, in addition to clinical predictors, the effect of patients’ individual brain topography on DBS outcome. The medical records of 35 PD patients were used to analyze DBS outcomes measured with the following scales: Part III of the Unified Parkinson’s Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS-III) off medication at baseline, and at 6-months during medication off and stimulation on, use of anti-parkinsonian medication (LED), Abnormal Involuntary Movement Scale (AIMS) and Non-Motor Symptoms Questionnaire (NMS-Quest). Furthermore, preoperative brain MRI images were utilized to analyze the brain morphology in relation to STN-DBS outcome. With STN-DBS, a 44% reduction in the UPDRS-III score and a 43% decrease in the LED were observed (p<0.001). Dyskinesia and non-motor symptoms decreased significantly [median reductions of 78,6% (IQR 45,5%) and 18,4% (IQR 32,2%) respectively, p=0.001 – 0.047]. Along with the levodopa challenge test, patients’ age correlated with the observed DBS outcome measured as UPDRS-III improvement (ρ= -0.466 – -0.521, p<0.005). Patients with greater LED decline had lower grey matter volumes in left superior medial frontal gyrus, in supplementary motor area and cingulum bilaterally. Additionally, patients with greater UPDRS-III score improvement had lower grey matter volume in similar grey matter areas. These findings remained significant when adjusted for sex, age, baseline LED and UPDRS scores respectively and for total intracranial volume (p=0.0041- 0.001). However, only the LED decrease finding remained significant when the analyses were further controlled for stimulation amplitude. It appears that along with the clinical predictors of STN-DBS outcome, individual patient topographic differences may influence DBS outcome. Clinical Trial Registration Number: NCT06095245, registration date October 23, 2023, retrospectively registered
Delignification of wood fibers using a eutectic carvacrol–methanesulfonic acid mixture analyses of the structure and fractional distribution of lignin, cellulose, and hemicellulose
Authors: Ismail Mostafa Y. , Sirviö Juho Antti , Ronkainen Veli-Pekka , Patanen Minna , Karvonen Ville , Liimatainen Henrikki
Published: April 2024

Delignification and fractional pretreatments are essential for valorization of wood biomass in various bioproducts. Herein, lignocellulose wood fibers were exposed to a eutectic mixture (EM) of carvacrol and methanesulfonic acid for different times. The resulting structural and chemical alterations in biomass were explored in terms of the fiber morphology and fractional chemical composition through fiber image analysis, field-emission scanning electron microscopy, high-performance liquid chromatography, and a novel approach based on fluorescence-lifetime imaging microscopy (FLIM). The autofluorescence of the lignocellulose fibers, which was primarily due to lignin with contributions from cellulose and hemicellulose, enabled application of FLIM in lignocellulose compositional analysis in micro-scale. FLIM analysis revealed that EM treatment efficiently removed lignin from the outer fiber layers. Furthermore, the effective EM treatment time was 3 h (with a residual lignin content of ~ 7 wt%), after which defects were observed on the fibers and the cellulose chains started breaking. This degradation was also indicated by a shift of the lifetime spectra toward the fluorescence lifetime of cellulose with increasing treatment time. Overall, our findings provide valuable insights to the response of lignocellulose fibers to EM treatment, contributing to the important goal of wood biomass application in bioproducts.
Beyond climate change? Environmental discourse on the planetary boundaries in Twitter networks
Authors: Dubey Shreya , Meijers Marijn H. C. , Smit Eline S. , Smit Edith G.
Published: April 2024

Social media are increasingly used to obtain and disseminate information about environmental issues. Yet, environmental communication research has focused mainly on social media discussions pertaining to climate change, while overlooking public awareness and discourse regarding the other planetary boundaries (i.e., important and interlinked environmental issues other than climate change). Moreover, while discussions about climate change are often found to be polarising, it remains to be seen if this extends to other environmental issues. We used network analysis and topic modelling to analyse two million environment-related tweets and identified nine ‘green communities’ of users. Climate change was the most popular issue across all communities and other issues like biodiversity loss were discussed infrequently. The discourse was less polarised than previously assumed, was largely pro-environmental, and originated more from the Global North than the Global South. The relevance of our findings for policymakers and researchers in environmental communication is discussed.
The Value of Pretend Play for Social Competence in Early Childhood: A Meta-analysis
Authors: Smits-van der Nat Mireille , van der Wilt Femke , Meeter Martijn , van der Veen Chiel
Published: April 2024

According to Vygotsky’s cultural-historical activity theory, pretend play can be an important context for the development of children’s social competence. The aim of this meta-analysis was to synthesize the current evidence about the relation between pretend play and social competence in early childhood (age 3–8 years). A systematic literature search of PsycINFO, ERIC, and Web of Science identified a total of 34 relevant empirical studies. The included studies were systematically coded and categorized for pretend play and social competence. Overall, the findings of this meta-analysis reveal a positive relation between pretend play and social competence, irrespective of how the latter was measured. The relation between pretend play and social competence was slightly negatively impacted by children’s age, suggesting that the relation weakens as children get older. Studies measuring the amount of pretend play found lower correlations between pretend play and social competence than studies measuring the quality of pretend play. Most included studies adopted a cross-sectional design, so claims about causal effects could not be supported. Future research is required to determine the direction of causality and potential mechanisms that may explain the relation between pretend play and social competence.
REDD implementation for greenhouse gas reduction and climate change mitigation in Hyrcanian forests: a case study of the Kojoor Watershed, Northern Iran
Authors: Niknam Arman , Sarli Reza , Taherizadeh Mehrnoosh , Attarroshan Sina , Pourmansouri Fatemeh
Published: April 2024

Reducing emissions from deforestation and forest degradation (REDD) is a specific strategy for combating deforestation and forest degradation to alleviate the effects of climate change. In this study, the potential greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reduction resulting from the implementation of a REDD project is estimated. Changes in forest cover throughout the years 1985, 1990, 1995, 2000, 2010, 2015, and 2020 were analyzed using time-series Landsat imagery (TM, ETM + , and OLI) and a random forest algorithm. Multilayer perceptron neural networks were used to model the transition potential of the forest cover, which were then predicted via Markov chain analysis. The change detection analysis revealed two discernible patterns in forest cover dynamics. Between 1985 and 2000, a notable decrease in forest cover was seen, whereas from 2000 to 2020, it significantly increased. The results suggested that the absence of REDD implementation would result in the deforestation of approximately 199,569 hectares of forest cover between 2020 and 2050, leading to the release of 1,995,695 tCO2e of emissions into the atmosphere. However, with the implementation of REDD, these emissions would be reduced to 405,512 tCO2e, effectively preventing the release of 1,590,183 tCO2e of emissions into the upper atmosphere. This study demonstrates that the implementation of REDD projects can be an effective strategy for reducing GHG emissions and mitigating climate change in the Hyrcanian forests.
All too real metacapitalism: towards a non-dualist political ontology of metaverse
Authors: Coeckelbergh Mark
Published: April 2024

Current techno-utopian visions of metaverse raise ontological, ethical, and political questions. Drawing on existing literature on virtual worlds but also philosophically moving beyond that body of work and responding to political contexts concerning identity, capitalism, and climate, this paper begins to address these questions by offering a conceptual framework to think about the ontology of metaverse(s) in ways that see metaverse as real, experienced and shaping our experience, technologically constituted, and political. It shows how this non-dualist political-ontological approach helps to better identify, understand, predict, and evaluate some real and potentially dangerous ethically and politically relevant phenomena, including what I call ‘metacapitalism’’s environmentally problematic dream.
Surgical aspects related to hereditary pancreatic cancer
Authors: Maurer Elisabeth , Bartsch Detlef K.
Published: April 2024

The goal of surveillance programs for individuals at risk (IAR) from familial pancreatic cancer (FPC) families or families with other inherited tumor syndromes predisposing to the development of pancreatic adenocarcinoma (PDAC), such as hereditary pancreatitis or Peutz-Jeghers syndrome, is the dectection and consecutive curative resection of early PDAC or even better its high-grade precursor lesions. Although the indication for surgery is quite established, the extent of surgery is not well defined due to the lack of evidence-based data. In addition, multiple factors have to be taken into account to determine an optimal personalized surgical strategy. This holds especially true since pancreatic surgery is associated with a relatively high morbidity and might impair the quality of life significantly. In this article the surgical aspects in the setting of hereditary PDAC are discussed.