bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The role of vector boson fusion in the production of heavy vector triplets at the LHC and HL-LHC
Authors: Baker Michael J. , Martonhelyi Timothy , Thamm Andrea , Torre Riccardo
Published: November 2022

Abstract

We clarify the role of vector boson fusion (VBF) in the production of heavy vector triplets at the LHC and the HL-LHC. We point out that the presence of VBF production leads to an unavoidable rate of Drell-Yan (DY) production and highlight the subtle interplay between the falling parton luminosities and the increasing importance of VBF production as the heavy vector mass increases. We discuss current LHC searches and HL-LHC projections in di-boson and di-lepton final states and demonstrate that VBF production outperforms DY production for resonance masses above 1 TeV in certain regions of the parameter space. We define two benchmark parameter points which provide competitive production rates in vector boson fusion.
The 4d/2d correspondence in twistor space and holomorphic Wilson lines
Authors: Bu Wei , Casali Eduardo
Published: November 2022

Abstract

We give an explicit realization of the 4d local operator / 2d conformal block correspondence of Costello and Paquette in the case of gauge theories. This is accomplished by lifting the 4d local operators to non-local operators in twistor space using a holomorphic generalization of the Wilson line. This procedure automatically constructs the 2d conformal blocks corresponding to the local operator. We interpret this lifting as effectively integrating out the 2d degrees of freedom living on the defect. We present some 2d chiral CFT representation of the defect algebra whose correlators reproduce the conformal blocks obtained by the lifting procedure.
What is the ability of inflamed endothelium to uptake exogenous saturated fatty acids? A proof-of-concept study using spontaneous Raman, SRS and CARS microscopy
Authors: Borek-Dorosz Aleksandra , Pieczara Anna , Czamara Krzysztof , Stojak Marta , Matuszyk Ewelina , Majzner Katarzyna , Brzozowski Krzysztof , Bresci Arianna , Polli Dario , Baranska Malgorzata
Published: November 2022

Endothelial cells (EC) in vivo buffer and regulate the transfer of plasma fatty acid (FA) to the underlying tissues. We hypothesize that inflammation could alter the functionality of the EC, i.e., their capacity and uptake of different FA. The aim of this work is to verify the functionality of inflamed cells by analyzing their ability to uptake and accumulate exogenous saturated FA. Control and inflammatory human microvascular endothelial cells stimulated in vitro with two deuterium-labeled saturated FA (D-FA), i.e., palmitic (D31-PA) and myristic (D27-MA) acids. Cells were measured both by spontaneous and stimulated Raman imaging to extract detailed information about uptaken FA, whereas coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering and fluorescence imaging showed the global content of FA in cells. Additionally, we employed atomic force microscopy to obtain a morphological image of the cells. The results indicate that the uptake of D-FA in inflamed cells is dependent on their concentration and type. Cells accumulated D-FA when treated with a low concentration, and the effect was more pronounced for D27-MA, in normal cells, but even more so, in inflamed cells. In the case of D31-PA, a slightly increased uptake was observed for inflamed cells when administered at higher concentration. The results provide a better understanding of the EC inflammation and indicate the impact of the pathological state of the EC on their capacity to buffer fat. All the microscopic methods used showed complementarity in the analysis of FA uptake by EC, but each method recognized this process from a different perspective.
Linear Stability of Semiclassical Theories of Gravity
Authors: Meda Paolo , Pinamonti Nicola
Published: November 2022

The linearization of semiclassical theories of gravity is investigated in a toy model, consisting of a quantum scalar field in interaction with a second classical scalar field which plays the role of a classical background. This toy model mimics also the evolution induced by semiclassical Einstein equations, such as the one which describes the early universe in the cosmological case. The equations governing the dynamics of linear perturbations around simple exact solutions of this toy model are analyzed by constructing the corresponding retarded fundamental solutions, and by discussing the corresponding initial value problem. It is shown that, if the quantum field which drives the back-reaction to the classical background is massive, then there are choices of the renormalization parameters for which the linear perturbations with compact spatial support decay polynomially in time for large times, thus indicating stability of the underlying semiclassical solution.
Hepatic Acat2 overexpression promotes systemic cholesterol metabolism and adipose lipid metabolism in mice
Authors: Ma Zhimin , Huang Zhengyun , Zhang Chi , Liu Xiangpeng , Zhang Jie , Shu Hui , Ma Yue , Liu Zhiwei , Feng Yu , Chen Xiyue , Kuang Shihuan , Zhang Yong , Jia Zhihao
Published: November 2022

Aims/hypothesis

Acetyl coenzyme A acetyltransferase (ACAT), also known as acetoacetyl-CoA thiolase, catalyses the formation of acetoacetyl-CoA from acetyl-CoA and forms part of the isoprenoid biosynthesis pathway. Thus, ACAT plays a central role in cholesterol metabolism in a variety of cells. Here, we aimed to assess the effect of hepatic Acat2 overexpression on cholesterol metabolism and systemic energy metabolism.

Methods

We generated liver-targeted adeno-associated virus 9 (AAV9) to achieve hepatic Acat2 overexpression in mice. Mice were injected with AAV9 through the tail vein and subjected to morphological, physiological (body composition, indirect calorimetry, treadmill, GTT, blood biochemistry, cardiac ultrasonography and ECG), histochemical, gene expression and metabolomic analysis under normal diet or feeding with high-fat diet to investigate the role of ACAT2 in the liver.

Results

Hepatic Acat2 overexpression reduced body weight and total fat mass, elevated the metabolic rate, improved glucose tolerance and lowered the serum cholesterol level of mice. In addition, the overexpression of Acat2 inhibited fatty acid, glucose and ketone metabolic pathways but promoted cholesterol metabolism and changed the bile acid pool and composition of the liver. Hepatic Acat2 overexpression also decreased the size of white adipocytes and promoted lipid metabolism in white adipose tissue. Furthermore, hepatic Acat2 overexpression protected mice from high-fat-diet-induced weight gain and metabolic defects

Conclusions/interpretation

Our study identifies an essential role for ACAT2 in cholesterol metabolism and systemic energy expenditure and provides key insights into the metabolic benefits of hepatic Acat2 overexpression. Thus, adenoviral Acat2 overexpression in the liver may be a potential therapeutic tool in the treatment of obesity and hypercholesterolaemia.

Graphical abstract
Trace formulation for photonic inverse design with incoherent sources
Authors: Yao Wenjie , Verdugo Francesc , Christiansen Rasmus E. , Johnson Steven G.
Published: November 2022

Spatially incoherent light sources, such as spontaneously emitting atoms, naively require Maxwell’s equations to be solved many times to obtain the total emission, which becomes computationally intractable in conjunction with large-scale optimization (inverse design). We present a trace formulation of incoherent emission that can be efficiently combined with inverse design, even for topology optimization over thousands of design degrees of freedom. Our formulation includes previous reciprocity-based approaches, limited to a few output channels (e.g., normal emission), as special cases but generalizes to a continuum of emission directions by exploiting the low-rank structure of emission problems. We present several examples of incoherent-emission topology optimization, including tailoring the geometry of fluorescent particles, a periodically emitting surface, and a structure emitting into a waveguide mode, as well as discussing future applications to problems such as Raman sensing and cathodoluminescence.
A web-based decision aid for shared decision making in pelvic organ prolapse: the SHADE-POP trial
Authors: Drost Larissa Esmeralda , Stegeman Marjan , Gerritse Maria B. E. , Franx Arie , Vos M. Caroline ,   On behalf of the SHADE-POP study group, Lamers Romy E. D. , Ezendam Nicole P. M. , Dam Anika , Schrickx Jan , van Wijk Heidy F.
Published: November 2022

Introduction and hypothesis

Among women worldwide, pelvic organ prolapse (POP) is a common problem. There are three different treatment options for POP: pelvic floor muscle therapy, pessary treatment and prolapse surgery. As none of the three treatment options is clearly superior, shared decision making (SDM) is very important. A decision aid (DA) is known to facilitate patient participation and SDM. We hypothesise that the use of a web-based DA for POP increases patients’ satisfaction with information and care and reduces decisional conflict.

Methods

This two-arm, multicentre, cluster randomised controlled trial was performed in women with POP in five different Dutch hospitals. The control group received usual care (UC) and the intervention group received the DA in addition to UC. Primary outcome measures were satisfaction with treatment decision making and satisfaction with information. Analyses were performed using independent sample t tests, Chi-squared tests, and multilevel linear regression analyses.

Results

Between the DA group (n=40) and the UC group (n=56) no differences were found concerning patients’ satisfaction with information, with scores of 45.63 and 46.14 out of 50 respectively (p=0.67). Also, no differences were found concerning the perceived role in decision making, as patients scored 46.83 in the DA group and 46.41 in the UC group, out of a maximum of 54 (n=0.81).

Conclusions

No differences were found concerning patients’ satisfaction with information and treatment decision making between the DA and UC. However, both groups scored high on the questionnaires, which suggests that the decision process is already of high quality.
Quantitative measurement of cartilage morphology in osteoarthritis: current knowledge and future directions
Authors: Wirth Wolfgang , Ladel Christoph , Maschek Susanne , Wisser Anna , Eckstein Felix , Roemer Frank
Published: November 2022

Quantitative measures of cartilage morphology (“cartilage morphometry”) extracted from high resolution 3D magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) sequences have been shown to be sensitive to osteoarthritis (OA)-related change and also to treatment interventions. Cartilage morphometry is therefore nowadays widely used as outcome measure for observational studies and randomized interventional clinical trials. The objective of this narrative review is to summarize the current status of cartilage morphometry in OA research, to provide insights into aspects relevant for the design of future studies and clinical trials, and to give an outlook on future developments. It covers the aspects related to the acquisition of MRIs suitable for cartilage morphometry, the analysis techniques needed for deriving quantitative measures from the MRIs, the quality assurance required for providing reliable cartilage measures, and the appropriate participant recruitment criteria for the enrichment of study cohorts with knees likely to show structural progression. Finally, it provides an overview over recent clinical trials that relied on cartilage morphometry as a structural outcome measure for evaluating the efficacy of disease-modifying OA drugs (DMOAD).
Determining the Minimum Dataset for Surgical Patients in Africa: A Delphi Study
Authors: Kluyts Hyla‐Louise , Bedwell Gillian J. , Bedada Alemayehu G. , Fadalla Tarig , Hewitt‐Smith Adam , Mbwele Bernard A. , Mrara Busisiwe , Omigbodun Akinyinka , Omoshoro‐Jones Jones , Turton Edwin W. , Belachew Fitsum K. , Chu Kathryn , Cloete Esther , Ekwen Gerald , Elfagieh Mohamed Ahmed , Elfiky Mahmoud , Maimbo Mayaba , Morais Atilio , Mpirimbanyi Christophe , Munlemvo Dolly , Ndarukwa Pisirai , Smalle Isaac , Torborg Alexandra , Ulisubisya Mpoki , Fawzy Maher , Gobin Veekash , Mbeki Motselisi , Ngumi Zipporah , Patel‐Mujajati Ushmaben , Sama Hamza D. , Tumukunde Janat , Antwi‐Kusi Akwasi , Basenaro Apollo , Lamacraft Gillian , Madzimbamuto Farai , Maswime Salome , Msosa Vanessa , Mulwafu Wakisa , Youssouf Coulibaly , Pearse Rupert , Biccard Bruce M.
Published: November 2022

Background

It is often difficult for clinicians in African low‐ and middle‐income countries middle‐income countries to access useful aggregated data to identify areas for quality improvement. The aim of this Delphi study was to develop a standardised perioperative dataset for use in a registry.

Methods

A Delphi method was followed to achieve consensus on the data points to include in a minimum perioperative dataset. The study consisted of two electronic surveys, followed by an online discussion and a final electronic survey (four Rounds).

Results

Forty‐one members of the African Perioperative Research Group participated in the process. Forty data points were deemed important and feasible to include in a minimum dataset for electronic capturing during the perioperative workflow by clinicians. A smaller dataset consisting of eight variables to define risk‐adjusted perioperative mortality rate was also described.

Conclusions

The minimum perioperative dataset can be used in a collaborative effort to establish a resource accessible to African clinicians in improving quality of care.
Radiological assessment and surgical management of cervical spine involvement in patients with rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Siempis Timoleon , Tsakiris Charalampos , Anastasia Zikou , Alexiou George A. , Voulgaris Spyridon , Argyropoulou Maria I.
Published: November 2022

The purpose of the present systematic review was to describe the diagnostic evaluation of rheumatoid arthritis in the cervical spine to provide a better understanding of the indications and options of surgical intervention. We performed a literature review of Pub-med, Embase, and Scopus database. Upon implementing specific inclusion and exclusion criteria, all eligible articles were identified. A total of 1878 patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) were evaluated for cervical spine involvement with plain radiographs. Atlantoaxial subluxation (AAS) ranged from 16.4 to 95.7% in plain radiographs while sub-axial subluxation ranged from 10 to 43.6% of cases. Anterior atlantodental interval (AADI) was found to between 2.5 mm and 4.61 mm in neutral and flexion position respectively, while Posterior Atlantodental Interval (PADI) was between 20.4 and 24.92 mm. 660 patients with RA had undergone an MRI. A pannus diagnosis ranged from 13.33 to 85.36% while spinal cord compression was reported in 0–13% of cases. When it comes to surgical outcomes, Atlanto-axial joint (AAJ) fusion success rates ranged from 45.16 to 100% of cases. Furthermore, the incidence of postoperative subluxation ranged from 0 to 77.7%. With regards to AADI it is evident that its value decreased in all studies. Furthermore, an improvement in Ranawat classification was variable between studies with a report improvement frequency by at least one class ranging from 0 to 54.5%. In conclusion, through careful radiographic and clinical evaluation, cervical spine involvement in patients with RA can be detected. Surgery is a valuable option for these patients and can lead to improvement in their symptoms.
High-speed mid-infrared laser absorption spectroscopy of CO$$_2$$ for shock-induced thermal non-equilibrium studies of planetary entry
Authors: Jelloian Christopher C. , Minesi Nicolas Q. , Spearrin R. Mitchell
Published: November 2022

A high-speed laser absorption technique is employed to resolve spectral transitions of CO$$_2$$

2

in the mid-infrared at MHz rates to infer non-equilibrium populations/temperatures of translation, rotation and vibration in shock-heated CO$$_2$$

2

- Ar mixtures. An interband cascade laser (DFB-ICL) resolves 4 transitions within the CO$$_2$$

2

asymmetric stretch fundamental bands ($$\Delta $$
Δ
v$$_3$$

3

= 1) near 4.19 $$\upmu \hbox {m}$$

μ
m

. The sensor probes a wide range of rotational energies as well as two vibrational states (00$$^0$$

0

0 and 01$$^1$$

1

0). The sensor is demonstrated on the UCLA high enthalpy shock tube, targeting temperatures between 1250 and 3100 K and sub-atmospheric pressures (up to 0.2 atm). The sensor is sensitive to multiple temperatures over a wide range of conditions relevant to Mars entry radiation. Vibrational relaxation times are resolved and compared to existing models of thermal non-equilibrium. Select conditions highlight the shortcomings of modeling CO$$_2$$

2

non-equilibrium with a single vibrational temperature.
“Hot” vs “Cold” endoscopic stapes surgery: a matched case–control study
Authors: Molinari Giulia , Fernandez Ignacio Javier , Melchiorri Claudio , Reale Marella , Bonali Marco , Presutti Livio , Lotto Cecilia , Lucidi Daniela
Published: November 2022

Purpose

To compare hearing results and complication rates between two groups of patients operated on by endoscopic stapes surgery (ESS) for otosclerosis, either with CO2 fiber laser or microdrill.

Methods

A case–control study was performed. All consecutive cases of CO2 fiber laser ESS operated at a single center during the period 2017–2020 (case group) were matched to a control group of patients operated by traditional technique, according to year of surgery, preoperative mean air–bone gap, sex and age. Audiological data from preoperative and postoperative examinations and complication rates were compared.

Results

46 cases were included. Mean operative time was significantly longer in the laser cohort (65 min) than in the drill one (45 min) (p = 0.003). Similar results were found in the two groups regarding the mean postoperative BC-PTA. The high-frequency bone conduction resulted significantly higher in the laser group (p = 0.002), suggesting an overclosure effect in the laser group. Consistently, a significant improvement of the BC-PTA threshold at 2000 Hz postoperatively was found in the laser group (p = 0.034). The postoperative AC-PTA significantly improved in both groups at all frequencies (p < 0.05), except for the AC threshold at 8 kHz. Similar rates of complications were found in the two groups.

Conclusion

This study is the first to compare hearing results and complications between CO2 fiber laser and microdrill in ESS. Our results demonstrated similar functional outcomes between the two groups, confirming ESS as safe and effective, regardless of the technique used.
Presepsin levels and COVID-19 severity: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Guarino Matteo , Perna Benedetta , Maritati Martina , Remelli Francesca , Trevisan Caterina , Spampinato Michele Domenico , Costanzini Anna , Volpato Stefano , Contini Carlo , De Giorgio Roberto
Published: November 2022

Plasmatic presepsin (PSP) is a novel biomarker reported to be useful for sepsis diagnosis and prognosis. During the pandemic, only few studies highlighted a possible correlation between PSP and COVID-19 severity, but results remain inconsistent. The present study aims to establish the correlation between PSP and COVID-19 severity. English-language papers assessing a correlation between COVID-19 and PSP from MEDLINE, PubMed, Google Scholar, Cochrane Library, MeSH, LitCovid NLM, EMBASE, CINAHL Plus and the World Health Organization (WHO) website, published from January 2020 were considered with no publication date limitations. Two independent reviewers performed data abstraction and quality assessment, and one reviewer resolved inconsistencies. The protocol was registered on PROSPERO (CRD42022325971).Fifteen articles met our eligibility criteria. The aggregate study population included 1373 COVID-19 patients who had undergone a PSP assessment. The random-effect meta-analysis was performed in 7 out of 15 selected studies, considering only those reporting the mean PSP levels in low- and high-severity cases (n = 707).The results showed that the pooled mean difference of PSP levels between high- and low-severity COVID-19 patients was 441.70 pg/ml (95%CI: 150.40–732.99 pg/ml).Our data show that presepsin is a promising biomarker that can express COVID-19 severity.
Utilizing Soccer for Delivery of HIV and Substance Use Prevention for Young South African Men: 6-Month Outcomes of a Cluster Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Rabie Stephan , Tomlinson Mark , Almirol Ellen , Stewart Jackie , Skiti Zwelibanzi , Weiss Robert E. , Vogel Lodewyk , Rotheram-Borus Mary Jane
Published: November 2022

Young men in South Africa face the intersecting epidemics of HIV, substance use and endemic poverty. We tested the effectiveness of a behavioral intervention using soccer training to reduce the cluster of risks associated with HIV and substance use. This cluster randomized controlled trial was conducted with men aged 18–29 years old in 27 neighborhoods in the townships of Cape Town, South Africa. Neighborhoods were randomized to receive for 6 months either: (1) Soccer League (SL; n = 18 neighborhoods, n = 778 men) who attended soccer three times weekly (72 sessions; 94% uptake, 45.5% weekly attendance rate), combined with an HIV/substance use, cognitive-behavioral intervention; or (2) a Control Condition (CC; n = 9; 415 men) who received educational materials and referrals at 3 month intervals. The primary outcome was the number of significant changes in a cluster of outcomes including HIV-related risks, substance abuse, employment/income, mental health, violence, and community engagement. There was only one significant difference on the rapid diagnostic tests for mandrax at 6 months, an insufficient number of changes to indicate a successful intervention. A group-based behavioral intervention was ineffective in addressing multiple risk behaviors among at-risk young men, similar to the findings of several recent soccer-related interventions. Early adulthood may be too late to alter well-established patterns of risk behaviors.

Clinical Trial Registration This trial was prospectively registered on 24 November 2014 with ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02358226.
Pride and guilt as mediators in the relationship between connection to nature and pro-environmental intention
Authors: Pasca Laura
Published: November 2022

As a result of the environmental issues, different variables have been studied in relation to environmental concern and pro-environmental behavior. Among these are the connection to nature and emotions. In a first study (n = 95), pride and guilt were found to be emotions which can be explained by the perceived environmental impact of those rather than the behavior itself. In a second study, it was observed that pride and guilt play a mediating role in the relationship between connectedness to nature and pro-environmental behavioral intention (n = 244). On the other hand, in the relationship between love for nature and behavioral intention, pride, but not guilt, played a mediating role (n = 253). Thus, the importance of fostering both pride and guilt in attaining higher levels of environmentally conscious behavior, as well as of considering people’s perceptions of the impact of their behaviors on the environment, is highlighted.
The Directed Edge Reinforced Random Walk: The Ant Mill Phenomenon
Authors: Erhard Dirk , Franco Tertuliano , Reis Guilherme
Published: November 2022

We define here a directed edge reinforced random walk on a connected locally finite graph. As the name suggests, this walk keeps track of its past, and gives a bias towards directed edges previously crossed proportional to the exponential of the number of crossings. The model is inspired by the so called Ant Mill phenomenon, in which a group of army ants forms a continuously rotating circle until they die of exhaustion. For that reason we refer to the walk defined in this work as the Ant RW. Our main result justifies this name. Namely, we will show that on any finite graph which is not a tree, and on $${\mathbb Z}^d$$

Z

d

with $$d\ge 2$$

d
≥
2

, the Ant RW almost surely gets eventually trapped into some directed circuit which will be followed forever. In the case of $${\mathbb Z}$$
Z
we show that the Ant RW eventually escapes to infinity and satisfies a law of large number with a random limit which we explicitly identify.
Compensatory hemodynamic changes in response to central hypovolemia in humans: lower body negative pressure: updates and perspectives
Authors: Goswami Nandu
Published: November 2022

Central hypovolemia is accompanied by hemodynamic compensatory responses. Understanding the complex systemic compensatory responses to altered hemodynamic patterns during conditions of central hypovolemia—as induced by standing up and/or lower body negative pressure (LBNP)—in humans are important. LBNP has been widely used to understand the integrated physiological responses, which occur during sit to stand tests (orthostasis), different levels of hemorrhages (different levels of LBNP simulate different amount of blood loss) as well as a countermeasure against the cephalad fluid shifts which are seen during spaceflight. Additionally, LBNP application (used singly or together with head up tilt, HUT) is useful in understanding the physiology of orthostatic intolerance. The role seasonal variations in hormonal, autonomic and circulatory state play in LBNP-induced hemodynamic responses and LBNP tolerance as well as sex-based differences during central hypovolemia and the adaptations to exercise training have been investigated using LBNP. The data generated from LBNP studies have been useful in developing better models for prediction of orthostatic tolerance and/or for developing countermeasures. This review examines how LBNP application influences coagulatory parameters and outlines the effects of temperature changes on LBNP responses. Finally, the review outlines how LBNP can be used as innovative teaching tool and for developing research capacities and interests of medical students and students from other disciplines such as mathematics and computational biology.
Heterogeneity of quality of life in the later stages of first-episode psychosis recovery
Authors: Clarke E. L. , Allott K. , Anderson J. F. I. , Gao C. X. , Filia K. M. , Killackey E. , Cotton S. M.
Published: November 2022

Purpose

First-episode psychosis (FEP) is characterised by wide heterogeneity in terms of symptom presentation and illness course. However, the heterogeneity of quality of life (QoL) in FEP is not well understood. We investigated whether subgroups can be identified using participants' responses on four QoL domains (physical health, psychological, social relationships, and environmental) 18-months into the recovery phase of FEP. We then examined the discriminant validity of these subgroups with respect to clinical, cognitive, and functioning features of FEP.

Method

Demographic and clinical characteristics, QoL, cognition, and functioning were assessed in 100 people with FEP at the 18-month follow-up of a randomised controlled trial of Individual Placement Support, which aims to facilitate vocational recovery. QoL was measured using the World Health Organisation’s QoL-BRIEF. A two-stage clustering approach using Ward’s method and Squared Euclidean Distance with a k-means confirmation was conducted. Multinomial logistic regressions were used to establish external validity.

Results

Three QoL subgroups emerged: a ‘good’ subgroup with relatively high QoL across all domains (31%), an ‘intermediate’ subgroup with relatively low psychological QoL (48%) and a ‘poor’ subgroup with markedly low social relationship QoL (21%). Negative symptoms, depressive symptoms, social/occupational functioning, and social inclusion at follow-up predicted subgroup membership. Sensitivity analysis found similar results.

Conclusion

Although some individuals with FEP have QoL comparable to individuals without mental ill health, QoL can remain concerningly low despite treatment efforts. Future research on interventions that target factors associated with poor QoL, such as low social inclusion, is required to counteract prolonged poor QoL in FEP.
Copper, lead and zinc interactions during phytoextraction using Acer platanoides L.—a pot trial
Authors: Mleczek Mirosław , Budka Anna , Gąsecka Monika , Budzyńska Sylwia , Drzewiecka Kinga , Magdziak Zuzanna , Rutkowski Paweł , Goliński Piotr , Niedzielski Przemysław
Published: November 2022

Of the many environmental factors that modulate the phytoextraction of elements, little has been learnt about the role of metal interactions. The study aimed to show how different concentrations of Cu, Pb and Zn in the cultivation medium influenced the biomass, plant development and phytoextraction abilities ofAcer platanoidesL. seedlings. Additionally, the impact on the content and distribution of Ca, K, Mg and Na in plant parts was studied with an analysis of phenols. Plants treated with a mixture of two metals were characterised by lower biomass of leaves and higher major elements content jointly than those grown in the salt of one element. Leaves ofA. platanoidescultivated in Pb5 + Zn1, Pb1 + Zn1and Pb1 + Zn5experimental systems were characterised by specific browning of their edges. The obtained results suggest higher toxicity to leaves of Pb and Zn present simultaneously in Knop solution than Cu and Pb or Cu and Zn, irrespective of the mutual ratio of the concentrations of these elements. Antagonism of Cu and Zn concerning Pb was clearly shown in whole plant biomass when one of these elements was in higher concentration (5 mmol L−1) in solution. In the lowest concentrations (1 mmol L−1), there was a synergism between Cu and Zn in plant roots. Plants exposed to Zn5, Cu1 + Pb5, Pb5 + Zn1and Cu1 + Zn1were characterised by higher total phenolic content than the rest plants. Both the presence and the concentration of other elements in the soil are significant factors that modulate element uptake, total phenolic content, and plant development.

Graphical Abstract
Boys Do Cry: Age and Gender Differences in Psycho-Physiological Distress during the COVID-19 Pandemic in Italy
Authors: Dotti Sani Giulia M. , Molteni Francesco , Sarti Simone
Published: November 2022

This article contributes to the quality of life literature by investigating gender and age gaps in psycho-physiological distress during the COVID-19 pandemic in Italy. Specifically, we investigate whether women experienced higher levels of distress than men, and if such gap can be explained by a greater negative reaction of women in the experience of a negative COVID-19 related event, such as the illness or death of a relative. Moreover, we explore whether age moderated or amplified the effect of a negative event on distress among women and men. To do so we rely on an ad hoc survey carried out between April 2020 and June 2021 in Italy, the first European country to be hit by the pandemic. Our results indicate that subjects who experienced the hospitalization or, more so, the death of a family member during the pandemic were more exposed to psycho-psychological distress compared to subjects who were not directly touched by COVID-19. Moreover, our results show that while women were on average more likely to express feelings of distress than men in absence of evident stressors, this gap disappeared among subjects who experience the death of a relative. Furthermore, our results indicate that experiencing a negative COVID-19 related event led to an increase in distress among all respondents except older men, who appeared to be the most resilient to the manifestation of any sign of distress. These results speak to important age and gender differences in the feelings and externalization of grief in the Italian context.
Long-term pathways analysis to assess the feasibility of sustainable land-use and food systems in Mexico
Authors: González-Abraham Charlotte , Flores-Santana Cynthia , Rodríguez-Ramírez Sonia , Olguín-Álvarez Marcela , Flores-Martínez Arturo , Torres Rojo Juan Manuel , Bocco Verdinelli Gerardo , Fernández Calleros Claudia A. , McCord Gordon C.
Published: November 2022

Mexico aims to develop highly productive and sustainable food systems that ensure national self-sufficiency. This paper employs an integrated land-use modeling tool—the FABLE Calculator—to estimate the degree of policy ambition required for the country to meet mid-century climate, conservation and production goals in the land-use sector. We generate national-level land-use pathways to mid-century in terms of agricultural production, land use change dynamics, greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, and availability of land supporting biodiversity under varying assumptions of national policy and productivity changes. We estimate the effects of plausible efforts to achieve sustainability in land-use and food systems to 2050 against a business-as-usual benchmark. In the sustainable pathway, assumptions on agricultural land expansion, reforestation, and protected area expansion reflect existing and aspirational Mexican government policies aiming to improve crop yields, livestock productivity with silvopastoral systems, and GHG mitigation goals. We also model diets that evolve toward Mexican dietary guidelines for a healthier consumption of fats and oils as well as a substantial increase in the intake of fruits and vegetables, pulses, nuts, and fish. Results suggest that Mexico can feasibly adopt a sustainable land-use pathway that provides adequate nutrition for the population by 2050, limit agricultural expansion, reduce GHG emissions, and expand forested lands. This type of integrated land-use modeling can help ensure policy coherence in land and food systems across national strategic plans for climate, biodiversity, and agricultural self-sufficiency, each spearheaded by different government agencies. Importantly, a sensitivity analysis highlights the transformative impact that diets have on land-use systems, and as such, dietary transformation should be considered in all climate mitigation plans.
A continuous myofibroblast precursor cell line from the tail muscle of Australasian snapper (Chrysophrys auratus) that responds to transforming growth factor beta and fibroblast growth factor
Authors: Chong Gavril L. W. , Böhmert Björn , Lee Lucy E. J. , Bols Niels C. , Dowd Georgina C.
Published: November 2022

Chrysophrys auratus (Australasian snapper) is one of the largest and most valuable finfish from capture fisheries in New Zealand, yet no cell lines from this species are reported in the scientific literature. Here, we describe a muscle-derived cell line initiated from the tail of a juvenile snapper which has been designated CAtmus1PFR (Chrysophrys auratus, tail muscle, Plant & Food Research). The cell line has been passaged over 100 times in 3 years and is considered immortal. Cells are reliant on serum supplementation for proliferation and exhibit a broad thermal profile comparable to the eurythermic nature of C. auratus in vivo. The impact of exogenous growth factors, including insulin-like growth factors I and II (IGF-I and IGF-II), basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), and transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ), on cell morphology and proliferation was investigated. Insulin-like growth factors acted as mitogens and had minimal effect on cell morphology. TGFβ exposure resulted in CAtmus1PFR exhibiting a myofibroblast morphology becoming enlarged with actin bundling. This differentiation was confirmed through the expression of smooth muscle actin (sma), an increase in type 1 collagen (col1a) expression, and a loss of motility. Expression of col1a and sma was decreased when cells were exposed to bFGF, and no actin bundling was observed. These data indicate that CAtmus1PFR may be myofibroblastic precursor cells descending from mesenchymal progenitor cells present in the tail muscle myosepta.
(-)- Gossypol Inhibition of Musashi-Mediated Forgetting Improves Memory and Age-Dependent Memory Decline in Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Mastrandreas Pavlina , Arnold Andreas , Boglari Csaba , de Quervain Dominique J.-F. , Stetak Attila , Papassotiropoulos Andreas
Published: November 2022

Musashi RNA-binding proteins (MSIs) retain a pivotal role in stem cell maintenance, tumorigenesis, and nervous system development. Recently, we showed in C. elegans that Musashi (MSI-1) actively promotes forgetting upon associative learning via a 3’UTR-dependent translational expression of the Arp2/3 actin branching complex. Here, we investigated the evolutionary conserved role of MSI proteins and the effect of their pharmacological inhibition on memory. Expression of human Musashi 1 (MSI1) and Musashi 2 (MSI2) under the endogenous Musashi promoter fully rescued the phenotype of msi-1(lf) worms. Furthermore, pharmacological inhibition of human MSI1 and MSI2 activity using (-)- gossypol resulted in improved memory retention, without causing locomotor, chemotactic, or learning deficits. No drug effect was observed in msi-1(lf) treated worms. Using Western blotting and confocal microscopy, we found no changes in MSI-1 protein abundance following (-)- gossypol treatment, suggesting that Musashi gene expression remains unaltered and that the compound exerts its inhibitory effect post-translationally. Additionally, (-)- gossypol suppressed the previously seen rescue of the msi-1(lf) phenotype in worms expressing human MSI1 specifically in the AVA neuron, indicating that (-)- gossypol can regulate the Musashi pathway in a memory-related neuronal circuit in worms. Finally, treating aged worms with (-)- gossypol reversed physiological age-dependent memory decline. Taken together, our findings indicate that pharmacological inhibition of Musashi might represent a promising approach for memory modulation.
Clinical characteristics and mortality risk prediction model in children with acute myocarditis
Authors: Zhuang Shi-Xin , Shi Peng , Gao Han , Zhuang Quan-Nan , Huang Guo-Ying
Published: November 2022

Background

Acute myocarditis (AMC) can cause poor outcomes or even death in children. We aimed to identify AMC risk factors and create a mortality prediction model for AMC in children at hospital admission.

Methods

This was a single-center retrospective cohort study of AMC children hospitalized between January 2016 and January 2020. The demographics, clinical examinations, types of AMC, and laboratory results were collected at hospital admission. In-hospital survival or death was documented. Clinical characteristics associated with death were evaluated.

Results

Among 67 children, 51 survived, and 16 died. The most common symptom was digestive disorder (67.2%). Based on the Bayesian model averaging and Hosmer–Lemeshow test, we created a final best mortality prediction model (acute myocarditis death risk score, AMCDRS) that included ten variables (male sex, fever, congestive heart failure, left-ventricular ejection fraction < 50%, pulmonary edema, ventricular tachycardia, lactic acid value > 4, fulminant myocarditis, abnormal creatine kinase-MB, and hypotension). Despite differences in the characteristics of the validation cohort, the model discrimination was only marginally lower, with an AUC of 0.781 (95% confidence interval = 0.675–0.852) compared with the derivation cohort. Model calibration likewise indicated acceptable fit (Hosmer‒Lemeshow goodness-of-fit, P¼ = 0.10).

Conclusions

Multiple factors were associated with increased mortality in children with AMC. The prediction model AMCDRS might be used at hospital admission to accurately identify AMC in children who are at an increased risk of death.
Spectroscopic Investigations and Mineral Chemistry of Dunite from the Sargur Supracrustals (3 Ga) Greenstone Belt: Implications to Terrestrial Analogues for Lunar and Martian Dunite
Authors: Saikia Bhaskar J. , Basak Sampriti , Borah Rashmi R. , Parthasarathy G.
Published: November 2022

Archean Serpentinised dunite is important not only for understanding the evolution of the ultramafic deposit of magnesium, but also serves as a possible sink material for the carbon dioxide sequestration. Future anti-pollution measures may include sequestering of waste CO2 as magnesite (MgCO3) by processing ultramafic rocks to obtain reactable Mg. For the first time, the Raman spectroscopic investigation of dunite is presented from the Karya, Sargur supracrustals (3Ga) Greenstone Belt. The Raman spectra of the sample reveal abundant presence of serpentine. Polymorphs of serpentine: lizardite, antigorite and chrysotile exhibit typical intense band at 685−692 cm−1 in the Raman spectrum. The Raman peaks in this study also indicates the presence of chromite and magnesite. The lunar dunite 72415, one of the oldest lunar samples of the Mg-suite, contains chromite symplectites indicative of crystallization at 40−50 km rather than at a shallow depth of <1 km, also having a olivine content of about 85%. The present study showed the dunite has about 85% olivine, which is almost identical to the Martian dunite, meteorite Northwest Africa (NWA) 2737 is the second known chassignite, an olivine-rich igneous rock with mineral compositions and isotopic ratios that suggest it formed on Mars. NWA 2737 consists of ~ 85% vol. The present study on the Karya dunite of Sargur supracrustals (3 Ga) greenstone belt, Western Dharwar Craton Karnataka, indicates a possibility of using this as a terrestrial analogue material for improving the Martian surface mineralogy and occurrence of hydrous minerals and life support system in Mars.
Geomorphic Analysis of Baghain River, Yamuna Basin, and its Implication for Drainage Characteristic and Tectonics using Remote Sensing and GIS Techniques
Authors: Gautam Pawan Kumar , Singh Dhruv Sen , Singh Anoop Kumar , Kumar Dhirendra
Published: November 2022

The present study aims to access the geomorphic analysis of the Baghain river basin and its implication on landscape evolution. Baghain river originates from the Panna hill, and flows through marginal and central Ganga plain. It empties itself in to Yamuna river near Chilla village, Banda district, Uttar Pradesh. The river basin comprises of three major geological units associated with this basin: Bundelkhand gneissic complex, Vindhyan Supergroup (hard rock terrain known as Panna hill) and Alluvial deposit (marginal Ganga plain and central Ganga plain). The current work focuses on study of morphometric parameters and geomorphic indices of Baghain river basin using digital elevation model (DEM) and topographic maps (1:50,000 scale). This basin exhibits four types of drainage patterns: dendritic, parallel, trellis and rectangular. Bifurcations ratio (4.82) of river basin suggest that the most part of the basin is not influenced by any geological structures. The elongation ratio (0.50) suggests that the basin is moderately elongated. The drainage density (0.62) and stream frequency (0.22) also suggest that the basin has moderate to high permeable and easily erodible alluvium terrain. The escarpment height is low in the proximal part (Panna Hill) and high in the middle and distal parts of the basin (marginal Ganga plain and central Ganga plain, respectively. Asymmetric factor (52) shows a leftward tilt of the basin. The region lies under marginal Ganga plain, and Bundelkhand plateau. The sharp bend present is probably due to the lithological variation. It reflects moderate gradient in the upper part (Panna hill), steep gradient in the lower part (Panna hill), and low gradient in the marginal to central Ganga plain.
Landslide Susceptibility Mapping of Kinnaur District in Himachal Pradesh, India Using Probabilistic Frequency Ratio Model
Authors: Gautam Nishtha
Published: November 2022

Landslides are a recurring phenomenon in hilly areas that destroy the natural environment, causing enormous property damage and human loss every year. Geological rock structure plays an important role in the occurrence of landslides. Concentration of dolomite, phyllite, schist and quartzite make this area more susceptible to failure. Landslides are prompted with the aid of using aggregate of things like slope, soil type, lithology, land use, land cover, drainage density, relative relief, curvature, etc. The main aim of this study is to delineate landslide susceptibility zone. In the study, the primary concern was to evaluate the contribution of controlling factors to landslides and to produce a landslide susceptibility map of the examination area. This study uses the landslide susceptibility model using frequency ratio in Kinnaur district, Himachal Pradesh, India. A landslide inventory was prepared with the help of Landsat, google earth images from 2010-2020 period. Digital elevation model (DEM) was used to prepare slope, aspect, curvature, and relative relief maps. Other maps like soil, land use land cover, was prepared using LISS-iii and LISS-iv data to analyze landslide controlling factors. An aggregate of 379 landslide polygons was digitized and then divided into a preparation set (70%) with 265 polygons and a test set with 114 polygons (30%). The connection between landslides and controlling factors was statistically assessed with FR analysis. Values were utilized to create the landslide susceptibility index (LSI) and the investigation region was divided into five zones of relative landslide susceptibility which were divided as very high, high, moderate, low, and very low. The findings of the analysis were validated by calculating the area under curve (AUC), which reveals a success rate accuracy of 73.01% and a prediction rate curve accuracy of 0.73%, indicating a high-quality susceptibility map derived from the FR model.
Endoprothesen bei fortgeschrittener Arthrose des oberen Sprunggelenks
Authors: Puchner Stephan , Döring Kevin
Published: November 2022

Die Arthrose des oberen Sprunggelenks stellt eine weitverbreitete degenerative Erkrankung der unteren Extremität dar. Obwohl sie in vielen Fällen auf eine vorhergehende Verletzung zurückgeführt werden kann, können auch chronisch-entzündliche Erkrankungen zu degenerativen Veränderungen des oberen Sprunggelenks führen. Nach umfangreicher Abklärung des Patienten zur Indikationsstellung kann die Sprunggelenksprothese im fortgeschrittenen Arthrosestadium als Behandlungsoption für Patienten gesehen werden, da die prothetische Versorgung sowohl die Lebensqualität und Funktion des Gelenks verbessert als auch Schmerzen lindert. Da es sich hierbei, im Vergleich zu anderen Endoprothesen, um eine seltene Operation handelt, ist eine umfangreiche präoperative Abklärung beim Spezialisten oder in einem spezialisierten Zentrum notwendig.