bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Risk and protective factors of asthma and mental health condition multimorbidity in a national sample of Canadian children
Authors: Lawson Joshua A. , Kim Minyoung , Jandaghi Parisa , Goodridge Donna , Balbuena Lloyd , Cockcroft Don , Adamko Darryl , Khanam Ulfat
Published: August 2024

Background

The coexistence of childhood asthma and mental health (MH) conditions can impact management and health outcomes but we need to better understand the etiology of multimorbidity. We investigated the association between childhood asthma and MH conditions as well as the determinants of their coexistence.

Methods

We used data from the Canadian Health Survey of Children and Youth 2019 (3–17 years; n = 47,871), a cross‐sectional, nationally representative Statistics Canada dataset. Our primary outcome was condition status (no asthma or MH condition; asthma only; MH condition only; both asthma, and a MH condition (AMHM)). Predictors of condition status were assessed using multiple multinomial logistic regression. Sensitivity analyses considered individual MH conditions.

Results

MH condition prevalence was almost two‐fold higher among those with asthma than those without asthma (21.1% vs. 11.6%, respectively). There were increased risks of each condition category associated with having allergies, other chronic conditions, and family members smoking in the home while there were protective associations with each condition status category for being female and born outside of Canada. Four additional variables were associated with AMHM and MH condition presence with one additional variable associated with both AMHM and asthma. In sensitivity analyses, the associations tended to be similar for most characteristics, although there was some variability.

Conclusion

There are common risk factors of asthma and MH conditions along with their multimorbidity with a tendency for MH risk factors to be associated with multimorbidity. MH condition presence is common and important to assess among children with asthma.
Comparative analysis of contrast distribution in cervical epidural steroid injections utilizing a modified paramedian interlaminar approach with varied needle tip positions: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Yoo Seung Hee , Lee Min Jin , Jue Mi Jin , Won Yoonsun , Kim Won‐joong
Published: August 2024

Background

Recent advancements in cervical interlaminar epidural steroid injections have given rise to the modified paramedian interlaminar (mPIL) approach. The objective of this study was to perform an analysis of the contrast spread pattern within the cervical epidural space, taking into account different needle tip positions in the mPIL approach.

Methods

A total of 48 patients were included in the study and randomly assigned to either the medial or lateral group based on the needle tip's position in the anterior–posterior view. The primary outcome measured was the contrast flow under fluoroscopic visualization. As a secondary outcome, we analyzed the location of the needle tip position in both lateral and contralateral oblique views. Clinical effectiveness was assessed by measuring pain intensity and functional disability post‐procedure.

Results

Significant disparities were noted in the ventral distribution of contrast between the medial and lateral groups. In the lateral images, needle tips in the lateral group were positioned more ventrally compared to those in the medial group. Both groups exhibited statistically significant improvements in neck and radicular pain, as well as functional status, 4 weeks after treatment, with no significant differences between them.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that the ventral dispersion of contrast material during cervical interlaminar epidural steroid injections using the mPIL approach may vary depending on the needle tip location.
Differential response of proline metabolism defense, Na+ absorption and deposition to salt stress in salt‐tolerant and salt‐sensitive rapeseed (Brassica napus L.) genotypes
Authors: Yan Lei , Lu Mu , Riaz Muhammad , Gao Guang , Tong Kaiqing , Yu Hualong , Wang Lu , Wang Lu , Cui Kunpeng , Wang Jiahui , Niu Yusheng
Published: August 2024

Soil salinization is a major abiotic factor threatening rapeseed yields and quality worldwide, yet the adaptive mechanisms underlying salt resistance in rapeseed are not clear. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the differences in growth potential, sodium (Na+) retention in different plant tissues, and transport patterns between salt‐tolerant (HY9) and salt‐sensitive (XY15) rapeseed genotypes, which cultivated in Hoagland's nutrient solution in either the with or without of 150 mM NaCl stress. The results showed that the inhibition of growth‐related parameters of the XY15 genotype was higher than those of the HY9 in response to salt stress. The XY15 had lower photosynthesis, chloroplast disintegration, and pigment content but higher oxidative damage than the HY9. Under NaCl treatment, the proline content in the root of HY9 variety increased by 8.47‐fold, surpassing XY15 (5.41‐fold). Under salt stress, the HY9 maintained lower Na+ content, while higher K+ content and exhibited a relatively abundant K+/Na+ ratio in root and leaf. HY9 also had lower Na+ absorption, Na+ concentration in xylem sap, and Na+ transfer factor than XY15. Moreover, more Na+ contents were accumulated in the root cell wall of HY9 with higher pectin content and pectin methylesterase (PME) activity than XY15. Collectively, our results showed that salt‐tolerant varieties absorbed lower Na+ and retained more Na+ in the root cell wall (carboxyl group in pectin) to avoid leaf salt toxicity and induced higher proline accumulation as a defense and antioxidant system, resulting in higher resistance to salt stress, which provides the theoretical basis for screening salt resistant cultivars.
Picture this: The future of imaging biomarkers in COPD
Authors: Flynn Cara , Brightling Chris
Published: August 2024

See related article
Establishment of a CD8+ T cells‐related prognostic risk model for acral melanoma based on single‐cell and bulk RNA sequencing
Authors: Wang Wenwen , Liu Pu , Ma Jie , Li Jun , Leng Ling
Published: August 2024

Background

CD8+ T cells have been recognized as crucial factors in the prognosis of melanoma. However, there is currently a lack of gene markers that accurately describe their characteristics and functions in acral melanoma (AM), which hinders the development of personalized medicine.

Methods

Firstly, we explored the composition differences of immune cells in AM using single‐cell RNA sequencing (scRNA‐seq) data and comprehensively characterized the immune microenvironment of AM in terms of composition, developmental differentiation, function, and cell communication. Subsequently, we constructed and validated a prognostic risk scoring model based on differentially expressed genes (DEGs) of CD8+ T cells using the TCGA‐SKCM cohort through Lasso‐Cox method. Lastly, immunofluorescence staining was performed to validate the expression of four genes (ISG20, CCL4, LPAR6, DDIT3) in AM and healthy skin tissues as included in the prognostic model.

Results

The scRNA‐seq data revealed that memory CD8+ T cells accounted for the highest proportion in the immune microenvironment of AM, reaching 70.5%. Cell–cell communication analysis showed extensive communication relationships among effector CD8+ T cells. Subsequently, we constructed a prognostic scoring model based on DEGs derived from CD8+ T cell sources. Four CD8+ T cell‐related genes were included in the construction and validation of the prognostic model. Additionally, immunofluorescence results demonstrated that ISG20 and CCL4 were downregulated, while LPAR6 and DDIT3 were upregulated in AM tissues compared to normal skin tissues.

Conclusion

Identifying biomarkers based on the expression levels of CD8+ T cell‐related genes may be an effective approach for establishing prognostic models in AM patients. The independently prognostic risk evaluation model we constructed provides new insights and theoretical support for immunotherapy in AM.
HLA alleles associated to susceptibility to gliptin‐associated bullous pemphigoid in Italian patients
Authors: Andreani Marco , Mariotti Feliciana , Pira Anna , Locatelli Franco , Testa Giuseppe , Battarra Mariarosa , Caputi Priscilla , Scarabello Alessandra , Bellei Barbara , Di Campli Cristiana , Collina Maria Chiara , Esposito Ilaria , Giampetruzzi Anna Rita , Didona Biagio , Pitocco Dario , De Simone Clara , Di Zenzo Giovanni
Published: August 2024

Bullous pemphigoid (BP), although a rare disease, is the most frequent subepidermal autoimmune disorder. Treatment with gliptins, used for type 2 diabetes, was reported as associated with BP onset. To identify HLA alleles that may reflect a higher susceptibility to BP in the Italian population, we analysed 30 patients affected by idiopathic bullous pemphigoid (IBP) and 86 gliptin‐associated BP (GABP) patients. A significant association between HLA‐DQB1*03:01 allele and IBP and GABP patients was found. Of note, both IBP and GABP were significantly associated with one of the following haplotypes: DRB1*11:01, DRB3*02:02, DQA1*05:05, DQB1*03:01 or DRB1*11:04, DRB3*02:02, DQA1*05:05 and DQB1*03:01. These data identify, for the first time, potential markers of susceptibility to BP in the Italian population, especially when associated with gliptin intake.
An electron paramagnetic resonance time‐course study of oxidative stress in the plasma of electronic cigarette exposed rats
Authors: Velayutham Murugesan , Mills Amber , Khramtsov Valery V. , Olfert I. Mark
Published: August 2024

The long‐term consequences of electronic cigarette (Ecig) use in humans are not yet known, but it is known that Ecig aerosols contain many toxic compounds of concern. We have recently shown that Ecig exposure impairs middle cerebral artery (MCA) endothelial function and that it takes 3 days for MCA reactivity to return to normal. However, the sources contributing to impairment of the endothelium were not investigated. We hypothesized that the increased levels of oxidative stress markers in the blood are correlated with impaired MCA reactivity. We used electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy to examine plasma from 4‐month‐old male Sprague–Dawley rats that were exposed to either air (n = 5) or 1 h Ecig exposure, after which blood samples were collected at varying times after exposure (i.e., 1–4, 24, 48 and 72 h postexposure, n = 4 or 5 in each time group). The EPR analyses were performed using the redox‐sensitive hydroxylamine spin probe 1‐hydroxy‐3‐carboxymethyl‐2,2,5,5‐tetramethyl‐pyrrolidine (CMH) to measure the level of reactive oxidant species in the plasma samples. We found that EPR signal intensity from the CM• radical was significantly increased in plasma at 1‐4, 24 and 48 h (P < 0.05, respectively) and returned to control (air) levels by 72 h. When evaluating the EPR results with MCA reactivity, we found a significant negative correlation (Pearson's P = 0.0027). These data indicate that impaired cerebrovascular reactivity resulting from vaping is associated with the oxidative stress level (measured by EPR from plasma) and indicate that a single 1 h vaping session can negatively influence vascular health for up to 3 days after vaping.

Highlights

What is the central question of this study?

Does the time course of oxidative stress triggered by electronic cigarette exposure follow the cerebral vascular dysfunction?

What is the main finding and its importance?

Electron paramagnetic resonance analysis shows that the oxidative stress induced after a single 1 h exposure to electronic cigarette aerosol takes ≤72 h to return to normal, which mirrors the time course for vascular dysfunction in the middle cerebral artery that we have reported previously.
Closed-Loop Pointing Feedback for Heliostats in Concentrating Solar Power
Authors: Adams Bernhard W.
Published: August 2024

Concentrating solar power (CSP) facilities need to ensure alignment of all sun-tracking heliostats onto the sunlight receiver. A method is proposed to keep all heliostats in a CSP facility under closed-loop pointing control while also providing feedback on the detailed alignment of the segment mirrors of each heliostat. The method is based on the sunlight directed toward the receiver, and thus works under full operational conditions and without the need of secondary optical alignments. It is based on retroreflectors (“retros”) to simultaneously return samples of the sunlight reflected by each mirror back to that same mirror. It goes beyond previous efforts at using retros by placing them into the concentrated sunlight, instead of in its periphery. Quartz glass will be used for its heat tolerance, and reflectivity modulation for visibility is achieved by rotating the retros. The technology can be retrofitted into existing CSP facilities to improve operational efficiency, and it can be used to relax the stability requirements of heliostats, and thus their cost, in the planning of new ones.
Magnetically-Actuated Endoluminal Soft Robot With Electroactive Polymer Actuation for Enhanced Gait Performance
Authors: Steiner Jake A. , Nagel William S. , Leang Kam K.
Published: August 2024

Endoluminal devices are indispensable in medical procedures in the natural lumina of the body, such as the circulatory system and gastrointestinal tract. In current clinical practice, there is a need for increased control and capabilities of endoluminal devices with less discomfort and risk to the patient. This paper describes the detailed modeling and experimental validation of a magneto-electroactive endoluminal soft (MEESo) robot concept that combines magnetic and electroactive polymer (EAP) actuation to improve the utility of the device. The proposed capsule-like device comprises two permanent magnets with alternating polarity connected by a soft, low-power ionic polymer-metal composite (IPMC) EAP body. A detailed model of the MEESo robot is developed to explore quantitatively the effects of dual magneto-electroactive actuation on the robot’s performance. It is shown that the robot’s gait is enhanced, during the magnetically-driven gait cycle, with IPMC body deformation. The concept is further validated by creating a physical prototype MEESo robot. Experimental results show that the robot’s performance increases up to 68% compared to no IPMC body actuation. These results strongly suggest that integrating EAP into the magnetically-driven system extends the efficacy for traversing tract environments.
Novel Design and Performance Analysis of 1R1T Remote Center-of-Motion Mechanisms With Partially Decoupled T- and R-Motions
Authors: Lin Rongfu , Guo Weizhong , Zeng Wenhui , Yan Kim , Lam Chun Ping , Cheng Shing Shin
Published: August 2024

Remote center-of-motion (RCM) mechanisms provide a way for surgical instruments to pass through a remote center (e.g., skin incision) under geometrical constraints, facilitating safer operations in minimally invasive surgery (MIS). One rotation and one translation (1R1T, pitch and insertion) are the basic requirements for RCM mechanisms. To make the structure simpler and control easier, a novel concept of 1R1T RCM mechanisms with partially decoupled motions, inspired by the double-parallelogram 1R RCM mechanisms, is proposed in this article, by investigating and proving its motion combination principle based on the screw theory. New evolution procedures based on the configuration evolution method have been derived to design 1R1T RCM mechanisms based on two approaches of inserting the T-motion in an original 1R RCM mechanism, resulting in two types of 1R1T RCM mechanisms with partially decoupled motions and base-locating actuators. The kinematic models of one typical proposed mechanism (including the forward and inverse kinematics) and its Jacobian matrix are derived. The performance analysis is presented, including RCM validation, velocity, singularity, and workspace analysis. Then, the dimensional optimization based on the discrete solution method is derived. Finally, a prototype of the proposed mechanism is presented with preliminary experiments performed to verify the feasibility of the synthesized RCM mechanisms. The results show that the RCM mechanism performs the 1R1T partially decoupled motion, and it can be used as the basic element of an active manipulator of an MIS robot.
A specific phosphorylation-dependent conformational switch in SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid protein inhibits RNA binding
Authors: Botova Maiia , Camacho-Zarco Aldo R. , Tognetti Jacqueline , Bessa Luiza Mamigonian , Guseva Serafima , Mikkola Emmi , Salvi Nicola , Maurin Damien , Herrmann Torsten , Blackledge Martin
Published: August 2024

The nucleocapsid protein of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 encapsidates the viral genome and is essential for viral function. The central disordered domain comprises a serine-arginine–rich (SR) region that is hyperphosphorylated in infected cells. This modification regulates function, although mechanistic details remain unknown. We use nuclear magnetic resonance to follow structural changes occurring during hyperphosphorylation by serine arginine protein kinase 1, glycogen synthase kinase 3, and casein kinase 1, that abolishes interaction with RNA. When eight approximately uniformly distributed sites have been phosphorylated, the SR domain binds the same interface as single-stranded RNA, resulting in complete inhibition of RNA binding. Phosphorylation by protein kinase A does not prevent RNA binding, indicating that the pattern resulting from physiologically relevant kinases is specific for inhibition. Long-range contacts between the RNA binding, linker, and dimerization domains are abrogated, phenomena possibly related to genome packaging and unpackaging. This study provides insight into the recruitment of specific host kinases to regulate viral function.
Uncertainties too large to predict tipping times of major Earth system components from historical data
Authors: Ben-Yami Maya , Morr Andreas , Bathiany Sebastian , Boers Niklas
Published: August 2024

One way to warn of forthcoming critical transitions in Earth system components is using observations to detect declining system stability. It has also been suggested to extrapolate such stability changes into the future and predict tipping times. Here, we argue that the involved uncertainties are too high to robustly predict tipping times. We raise concerns regarding (i) the modeling assumptions underlying any extrapolation of historical results into the future, (ii) the representativeness of individual Earth system component time series, and (iii) the impact of uncertainties and preprocessing of used observational datasets, with focus on nonstationary observational coverage and gap filling. We explore these uncertainties in general and specifically for the example of the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation. We argue that even under the assumption that a given Earth system component has an approaching tipping point, the uncertainties are too large to reliably estimate tipping times by extrapolating historical information.
High-harmonic spin-orbit angular momentum generation in crystalline solids preserving multiscale dynamical symmetry
Authors: Nagai Kohei , Okamoto Takuya , Shinohara Yasushi , Sanada Haruki , Oguri Katsuya
Published: August 2024

Symmetries essentially provide conservation rules in nonlinear light-matter interactions and facilitate control and understanding of photon conversion processes or electron dynamics. Since anisotropic solids have rich symmetries, they are strong candidates for controlling both optical micro- and macroscale structures, namely, spin angular momentum (circular polarization) and orbital angular momentum (spiral wavefront), respectively. Here, we show structured high-harmonic generation linked to the anisotropic symmetry of a solid. By strategically preserving a dynamical symmetry arising from the spin-orbit interaction of light, we generate multiple orbital angular momentum states in high-order harmonics. The experimental results exhibit the total angular momentum conservation rule of light even in the extreme nonlinear region, which is evidence that the mechanism originates from a dynamical symmetry. Our study provides a deeper understanding of multiscale nonlinear optical phenomena and a general guideline for using electronic structures to control structured light, such as through Floquet engineering.
Analysis of the isospin eigenstate $$\bar{D} \Sigma _c$$, $$\bar{D}^{*} \Sigma _c$$, and $$\bar{D} \Sigma _c^{*}$$ pentaquarks by their electromagnetic properties
Authors: Özdem Ulaş
Published: August 2024

To shed light on the nature of the controversial and not yet fully understood exotic states, we are carrying out a systematic study of their electromagnetic properties. The magnetic moment of a hadron state is as fundamental a dynamical quantity as its mass and contains valuable information on the deep underlying structure. In this study, we use the QCD light-cone sum rule to extract the magnetic moments of the $$\mathrm {P_{c}(4312)}$$

P
c

(
4312
)

, $$\mathrm {P_{c}(4380)}$$

P
c

(
4380
)

, and $$\mathrm {P_{c}(4440)}$$

P
c

(
4440
)

pentaquarks by considering them as the molecular picture with spin-parity $$\mathrm {J^P= \frac{1}{2}^-}$$

J
P

=

1
2

-

, $$\mathrm {J^P= \frac{3}{2}^-}$$

J
P

=

3
2

-

, and $$\mathrm {J^P= \frac{3}{2}^-}$$

J
P

=

3
2

-

, respectively. We define the isospin of the interpolating currents of these states, which is the key to solving the puzzle of the hidden-charm pentaquark states, to make these analyses more precise and reliable. We have compared our results with other theoretical predictions that could be a useful complementary tool for the interpretation of the hidden-charm pentaquark sector, and we observe that they are not in mutual agreement with each other. We have also calculated higher multipole moments for spin-3/2 $$\bar{D}^{*} \Sigma _c$$

D

¯

∗

Σ
c

and $$\bar{D} \Sigma _c^{*}$$

D

¯

Σ
c

∗

pentaquarks, indicating a non-spherical charge distribution.
Study of thermodynamic observables in Oxygen + Oxygen collisions at sNN = 7 TeV using color string percolation approach
Authors: Gupta Shreshtha , Michael Thresia , Bano Nargis , Mishra Aditya Nath
Published: August 2024

The Large Hadron Collider (LHC) at CERN has a plan to have Oxygen–Oxygen (O+O) collisions at [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]TeV collision energy in the forthcoming run. As the system size of [Formula: see text] collisions has the final state multiplicity overlap with those produced in PbPb, p+Pb, and pp collisions, it becomes exciting to study thermodynamic quantities using the Color String Percolation Model (CSPM). The thermodynamic quantities like temperature, shear viscosity to entropy density ratio, and trace anomaly are obtained from the soft region of the transverse momentum spectra of O+O collisions at [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]TeV. The percolation approach within CSPM can be successfully used to describe the initial stages in high-energy heavy ion collisions in the soft region in high-energy heavy ion collisions. The obtained results for O+O collisions are compared with the published results from pp and AA collisions using ALICE data.
Investigation of X-Ray Peak Broadening in Magnesium Oxide Nanoparticles Through Williamson–Hall Analysis
Authors: Srinivasan R. , Karthikeyan N. , Thiruramanathan P. , Arun T. , Chandra Bose A.
Published: August 2024

The cubic phase of Magnesium oxide (MgO) nanoparticles is synthesized by the sol-gel method. The nanoparticles were subjected to annealing at 500∘C to enable stress and strain analysis. Characterization of the annealed nanoparticles was performed using powder X-ray diffraction (XRD). Through analysis of the XRD peak profile, key properties, such as crystallite size, lattice strain, deformation stress, and deformation energy density, were determined. These parameters were estimated using three models such as the Williamson–Hall-Isotropic Strain Model (W-H-ISM), the Williamson–Hall-Anisotropic Strain Model (W-H-ASM), and the Williamson–Hall-Energy Density Model (W-H-EDM). The estimations were based on the W-H plot derived from the powder XRD data. The findings of this study contribute to a better understanding of the structural and mechanical characteristics of annealed MgO nanoparticles, thus informing their potential applications.
Geo-Economics, Geopolitics and the Origins of India–US Semiconductor Alliance
Authors: KUMAR RAJIV
Published: August 2024

The world is witnessing a new technological order as major powers restructure their national strategies to dominate the supply chains of semiconductors, which have emerged as the most critical technology in the post-COVID era. In this context, the origins of the India-US semiconductor alliance represent a significant development. This paper explores the drivers and defining characteristics of this partnership. By combining geo-economic and geopolitical perspectives, the paper explains India's emerging semiconductor strategies and the rationale behind the India-US semiconductor collaboration. Geo-economic factors—such as India's recognition of economic security risks during the pandemic-induced chip shortages, the crucial role of semiconductors in India's future economic growth, and its ambitions to become a chip exporter—have driven the formation of India’s new semiconductor strategy and its quest to strengthen ties with the US. Geopolitical factors, including India's heightened threat perception regarding its dependence on chip imports from China and concerns about China's technological advancements, have further bolstered this technological partnership. The India-US semiconductor alliance in the post-COVID era is defined by three major characteristics: first, unprecedented high-level political commitment to building chip partnerships; second, significant enhancement of chip-related agreements and institutional collaborations between the two countries; and third, the promotion of US semiconductor companies' presence in India. The paper also examines the future prospects of this alliance, emphasizing the substantial convergence between India and the US in the semiconductor sector and identifying key challenges that will shape the future trajectory of this partnership.
Exploring Indoor Air Quality Dynamics in Developing Nations: A Perspective from India
Authors: Karmakar Prasenjit , Pradhan Swadhin , Chakraborty Sandip
Published: August 2024

Indoor air pollution is a major issue in developing countries such as India and Bangladesh, exacerbated by factors such as traditional cooking methods, insufficient ventilation, and cramped living conditions, all of which elevate the risk of health issues such as lung infections and cardiovascular diseases. With the World Health Organization associating around 3.2 million annual deaths globally to household air pollution, the gravity of the problem is clear. Yet, extensive empirical studies exploring these unique patterns and indoor pollution’s extent are missing. To fill this gap, we carried out a 6-months long field study involving over 30 households, uncovering the complexity of indoor air pollution in developing countries, such as the longer lingering time of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in the air or the significant influence of air circulation on the spatiotemporal distribution of pollutants. We introduced an innovative Internet of Things (IoT) air quality sensing platform, the Distributed Air QuaLiTy MONitor (
DALTON
), explicitly designed to meet the needs of these nations, considering factors such as cost, sensor type, accuracy, network connectivity, power, and usability. As a result of a multi-device deployment, the platform identifies pollution hot spots in low- and middle-income households in developing nations. It identifies best practices to minimize daily indoor pollution exposure. Our extensive qualitative survey estimates an overall system usability score of 2.04, indicating an efficient system for air quality monitoring.
“The Devil You Know”: Barriers and Opportunities for Co-Designing Microclimate Sensors, A Case Study of Manoomi
Authors: Greenlee Eric , Rothrock Blaine , Kim Hyeonwook , Zegura Ellen , Hester Josiah
Published: August 2024

Current environmental challenges have profound local consequences and often benefit from the collection of fine-grained microclimate data. Advances in wireless sensor networks and the Internet of Things have led to technologies nominally suited to support remote sensing; however, in practice long-running deployments of in-field environmental sensors are rare. Field conditions are often remote and culturally sensitive, with limited power, Internet, transportation, and human infrastructure; advances in device technology alone will not suffice. We ask how communities, Internet of Things researchers, government, and other interested parties can work together to co-design useful, low burden, sustainability-focused infrastructure. Toward this end, we conducted 11 semi-structured interviews with 13 experts who use or rely on environmental sensing technology. To complement our interview data, we engaged in three months of participant observation while immersed in organizations specifically working toward manoomin (wild rice) conservation. We make two primary contributions. First, we confirm and enrich a five-stage model, the microclimate sensor lifecycle, focusing on desired features and persistent challenges. Second, we outline a space for co-design of microclimate sensors with emphasis on the cost of experience, the generally unaddressed issue of technical usability in the messy field, and the opportunity for community engagement to improve technical design and outcomes. Furthermore, we discuss future design opportunities, recommendations, and challenges in the microclimate sensor design, deployment, and sustainability space.
Exploring the Use of Unplugged Gamification on Programming Learners’ Experience
Authors: de Carvalho Barros Bezerra Gabriela , Oliveira Wilk , Guimarães Santos Ana Cláudia , Hamari Juho
Published: August 2024

Despite recent high interest among researchers and practitioners in learning programming, even the most dedicated learners can struggle to find motivation for studying and practicing programming. Therefore, in recent years, several strategies (e.g., educational games, flipped classrooms, and visual programming languages) have been employed to increase students’ engagement in programming studies. However, despite these efforts, no approach has proven efficient enough to sufficiently motivate these learners, and the community continues to search for novel strategies to enhance programming learners’ motivation. Building upon this, our study explores the use of unplugged gamification (i.e., gamification implemented without digital technology) combined with challenge-based learning during a programming workshop. Using Grounded Theory methods and data collected from focus groups, we analyzed and interpreted the perceptions of 24 programming learners regarding the gamified workshop. Learners reported experiencing collaboration while learning, with some indicating increased effort to obtain rewards, while others seemed to forget about the rewards altogether. Our findings provide valuable insights for computing teachers and researchers into how unplugged gamification combined with challenge-based learning is perceived by programming learners.
A BTN-Based Method for Multi-Entity Bitcoin Transaction Analysis and Influence Assessment
Authors: Wu Yan , Zhao Liuyang , Zhang Jia , Shi Leilei , Liu Lu , Panneerselvam John
Published: August 2024

Bitcoin transaction analysis is valuable for examining Bitcoin events. However, most of the existing methods are inadequate for dealing with transactions involving multiple entities. Furthermore, existing Bitcoin transaction analysis methods neglect to evaluate the influence of different entities on a Bitcoin event. This article aims to overcome such limitations by introducing a novel method for multi-entity Bitcoin transaction analysis along with proposing a method for multi-entity influence assessment based on the Bitcoin transaction network (BTN) model. To overcome the loss of tracking information, a Bitcoin gene operation named compound dyeing is devised and incorporated into the BTN simulation. After obtaining the simulation results, a method for multi-entity transaction behavior analysis is presented to identify and visualize the interactions among entities precisely and effectively. Furthermore, four influence indices with suitable visualization methods are proposed based on the features of the BTN to measure the business and trading influences of different entities. A real-world case study, the Mt.Gox coin loss event, is analyzed to demonstrate the effectiveness and efficiency of the proposed methods.
Cities Shape the Diversity and Spread of Nonnative Species
Authors: Potgieter Luke J. , Li Daijiang , Baiser Benjamin , Kühn Ingolf , Aronson Myla F.J. , Carboni Marta , Celesti-Grapow Laura , de Matos Ana Carolina L. , Lososová Zdeňka , Montaño-Centellas Flavia A. , Pyšek Petr , Richardson David M. , Tsang Toby P.N. , Zenni Rafael D. , Cadotte Marc W.
Published: August 2024

The globalization of trade and increased human mobility have facilitated the introduction and spread of nonnative species, posing significant threats to biodiversity and human well-being. As centers of global trade and human populations, cities are foci for the introduction, establishment, and spread of nonnative species. We present a global synthesis of urban characteristics that drive biological invasions within and across cities, focusing on four axes: (a) connectivity, (b) physical properties, (c) culture and socioeconomics, and (d) biogeography and climate. Urban characteristics such as increased connectivity within and among cities, city size and age, and wealth emerged as important drivers of nonnative species diversity and spread, while the relative importance of biogeographic and climate drivers varied considerably. Elaborating how these characteristics shape biological invasions in cities is crucial for designing and implementing strategies to mitigate the impacts of invasions on ecological systems and human well-being.
Therapeutic Potential of Psychedelic Drugs: Navigating High Hopes, Strong Claims, Weak Evidence, and Big Money
Authors: Humphreys Keith , Todd Korthuis P. , Stjepanović Daniel , Hall Wayne
Published: August 2024

Therapeutic claims about many psychedelic drugs have not been evaluated in any studies of even modest rigor. The science of psychedelic drugs is strengthening, however, making it easier to differentiate some promising findings amid the hype that suffuses this research area. Ketamine has risks of adverse side effects (e.g., addiction and cystitis), but multiple studies suggest it can benefit individuals with treatment-resistant depression. Other therapeutic signals from psychedelic drug research that merit rigorous replication studies include 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and psilocybin for depression, end of life dysphoria, and alcohol use disorder. The precise mechanisms through which psychedelic drugs can produce benefit and harm are not fully understood. Rigorous research is the best path forward for evaluating the therapeutic potential and mechanisms of psychedelic drugs. Policies governing the clinical use of these drugs should be informed by evidence and prioritize the protection of public health over the profit motive.
Influence of Particle Size on Electrophotocatalytic Properties of Tungsten Trioxide Photoanodes
Authors: Chittoory Valli Kamala Laxmi Ramya , Dzik Petr , Saňák Tomas , Bartoš Radim , Králová Marcela , Veselý Micheal
Published: August 2024

The need for advanced wastewater treatment technologies has been highlighted by the widespread contamination of water sources with toxic and persistent organic chemicals. In this work, thin films of tungsten (VI) oxide (WO3) were prepared by spin-coating and Meyer rod coating nanoparticulate dispersions following a top-down approach through ball milling. The morphological properties of the layers were investigated by profilometry. The results showed that the surface area increased with an increase in milling time for the milled mixture, and, for the sample milled for 96 h, it showed a nine-fold increase compared to the commercial tungsten (VI) oxide powder. The electron microscopic images provided insight into the change in particle size and layer texture which comply with the morphological changes observed by profilometry. The influence of the particle size on the charge generation efficiency was investigated using photoanodes prepared from the studied suspensions. Two distinct formulations of different particle sizes were mixed in variable ratios, and we showed that multimodal coatings exhibit larger photocurrents than monomodal coatings. The main contribution of this work can be found in the economically inexpensive method of preparing thin films WO3.
Capacity Fade of Graphite/NMC811: Influence of Particle Morphology, Electrolyte, and Charge Voltage
Authors: Quilty Calvin D. , Luo Jessica , Rodriguez-Campos Armando , Liu Sizhan , West Patrick J. , Tong Xiao , Kiss Andrew , Yang Yang , Jaye Cherno , Fischer Daniel A. , Takeuchi Esther S. , Marschilok Amy C. , Bock David C. , Yan Shan , Takeuchi Kenneth J.
Published: August 2024

LiNi0.8Mn0.1Co0.1O2 (NMC811) is an important Li-ion battery cathode material; however, there is a tradeoff between delivered capacity and capacity retention. As the charge potential increases the capacity rises but at the expense of capacity retention. The decrease in capacity retention has been ascribed to several factors including particle cracking, surface reconstruction, transition metal dissolution, and electrolyte reactivity. The present study compares 4.1 and 4.3 V charging limits in commercially relevant graphite/NMC811 pouch cells for single crystal (SC) and polycrystalline (PC) NMC811 with ethylene carbonate (EC)-containing or EC-free electrolytes. The electrochemistry is rationalized through analysis of electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, positive electrode X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, soft X-ray absorption spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, and negative electrode mapping by X-ray fluorescence. Graphite/SC-NMC811 cells show high-capacity retention at 4.1 V but exhibit degradation at 4.3 V charging potentials. The EC-free electrolyte cells led to higher capacity fade, especially when charged to 4.3 V. Cathode dissolution and deposition on the negative electrode from PC-NMC811 cells was higher than for samples from SC-NMC811 cells. This study reveals the impact of material type, charge voltage, and electrolyte composition on the reactions at the positive electrode, their influence on the negative electrode, and evolution with cycle number.
Electrochemical Detection of Melatonin at Nano-Sized Highly Boron-Doped Diamond Electrode
Authors: Satianram Witchayatip , Sunon Pachanuporn , Ngokpho Busarakham , Nijpanich Supinya , Chanlek Narong , Khotavivattana Tanatorn , Batchelor-McAuley Christopher , Ngamchuea Kamonwad
Published: August 2024

This work investigates the electrochemical oxidation of melatonin at boron-doped diamond electrodes and demonstrates the significant enhancement in the detection of melatonin using highly boron-doped diamond nanopowder (h-BDD). Employing differential pulse voltammetry, Tween-coated h-BDD modified screen-printed electrodes (Tween/h-BDD/SPE) showed two linear response ranges for melatonin: 0.057–10 and 10–200 μM, with sensitivities of 390 ± 36 and 72.2 ± 3.4 μA mM–1, respectively, and a detection limit (3Sb/m) of 0.017 μM. The Tween/h-BDD/SPE demonstrated good selectivity against common interferences such as tryptophan, serotonin, lactate, cytidine, cytosine, and urea. The analytical utility of Tween/h-BDD/SPE was validated by quantifying melatonin in commercial pharmaceutical tablets, achieving close to 100% recoveries.
Unveiling the Hidden Burden: Exploring the Psychological Impact of Gynecological Cancers and Predictive Modeling of Depression in Southwest China
Authors: Sun Xingyu , Jiang Shiqi , Jiao Beibei , Wang Peijuan , Wang Qiong , He Lijuan , Yin Chengliang , Liu Ling , Wang Shaohua
Published: August 2024

Objective. To explore the psychological impact of gynecological cancers on middle‐aged women in Southwest China and identify the risk factors for moderate to severe depressive symptoms. Methods. This cross‐sectional study included 500 patients from Southwest China, divided into two groups: depression (n = 220) and no depression (n = 280). Data on demographics, clinical characteristics, and socioeconomic factors were collected. We developed a logistic regression model to predict depressive symptoms and assessed its accuracy using the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC). Results. The study cohort consisted of 500 middle‐aged and young female cancer patients with a median age of 44 years. Significant predictors of depressive symptoms included younger age, higher economic stress levels, and out‐of‐pocket medical expenses. A comparative analysis showed that 220 patients exhibited depression symptoms, with these patients being generally younger (median age 41 years) compared to those without depression (median age 47 years, p < 0.001). Economic stress was consistently higher in the depression group across all cancer types. Patients with ovarian cancer had a reduced risk of depression compared to those with cervical cancer. The predictive model demonstrated high accuracy in identifying depression risk, with an AUC of 0.888. Internal validation yielded an average AUC of 0.885, and external validation produced an AUC of 0.872, underscoring the model’s robustness and reliability. These findings emphasize the complex interplay of demographic, socioeconomic, and clinical factors in the psychological well‐being of gynecological cancer patients, highlighting the need for tailored psychological and financial support interventions. Conclusion. Gynecological cancer patients in Southwest China experience significant psychological challenges, particularly younger women and those facing economic stress. Our predictive model can aid in early identification of those at risk for depression, emphasizing the importance of holistic care. Interventions should focus on both psychological and financial support to improve patient outcomes.
From Nonfunctioning Adrenocortical Cancer to Biochemically Silent Paraganglioma Associated with SDHB Mutation: An Uncommon Presentation of a Patient with a Retroperitoneal Mass
Authors: Freitas Izabella , Albuquerque Anna , de Marco Luiz , Eduardo  , Melo José Renan , Drummond Juliana , Rocha Beatriz
Published: August 2024

The combination of clinical characteristics and diagnostic exams including imaging, laboratory, and molecular tests help in the differential diagnosis of retroperitoneal lesions. We report a 41‐year‐old male with a metastatic retroperitoneal lesion with atypical characteristics, displaying pathological findings consistent with both nonsecretory pheochromocytomas/paragangliomas and adrenal cortex carcinoma. The patient was examined for abdominal pain, weight loss, and hypertension. Abdominal computed tomography showed a 21 × 8 × 10‐cm right retroperitoneal mass. He was initially diagnosed as pheochromocytoma/paraganglioma (PHEO/PGL). However, the diagnosis was later changed to adrenocortical carcinoma based on histopathological features of the metastatic lesions and the findings of normal urinary levels of catecholamines/metanephrines. Systemic chemotherapy and abdominal radiotherapy were performed, in addition to multiple surgical resections, with no satisfactory response. The indolent course of the disease and minimal impact on the patient’s performance status led to a genetic evaluation which resulted in the identification of a germline mutation in the succinate dehydrogenase complex subunit B (SDHB). An immunohistology review of previous slides was consistent with the hypothesis of a neuroendocrine tumor. Forty percent of the patients with PHEO/PGL have an underlying germline mutation. SDHB mutation is frequently associated with metastatic disease and dominant secretion of noradrenaline and/or dopamine. In addition to the metastatic disease, few cases with the mutations can be a biochemically silent PHEO/PGL. We concluded that the patient presented a metastatic abdominal paraganglioma associated with an SDHB mutation and we reinforced the need to perform genetic screening for all adrenal/extra‐adrenal lesions characteristic of PHEO/PGL.
Antimicrobial and Antibiofilm Activity of Monolaurin against Methicillin‐Resistant Staphylococcus aureus Isolated from Wound Infections
Authors: Hassan Abd El-Ghany Shimaa Salah , Azmy Ahmed Farag , Osama EL-Gendy Ahmed , Abd El-Baky Rehab Mahmoud , Mustafa Ahmad , Abourehab Mohammed A. S. , El‐Beeh Mohamed E. , Ibrahem Reham Ali
Published: August 2024

Background. Methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is one of the major pathogens associated with life‐threatening infections, showing resistance to various antibiotics. This study aimed to assess the influence of monolaurin on biofilm‐forming MRSA. Methods. The agar dilution method determined the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of monolaurin against MRSA isolates and explored its impact on the resistance profile of selected antibiotics. The assessment of combined therapy involving monolaurin and antibiotics was conducted using fractional inhibitory concentration (FIC). The tissue culture plate strategy appraised monolaurin’s antibiofilm activity and its inhibitory concentration (IC50), with assessment via scanning electron microscopy. Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) discerned a monolaurin effect on the expression of the icaD gene. Results. Monolaurin exhibited MIC values ranging from 500 to 2000 μg/mL. FIC index showed a synergistic effect of monolaurin with β‐lactam antibiotics ranging from 0.0039 to 0.25 (p < 0.001). Among the 103 investigated MRSA isolates, 44 (44.7%) displayed moderate biofilm formation, while 59 (55.3%) were strong biofilm producers. Antibiofilm activity demonstrated concentration dependence, confirming monolaurin’s capacity to inhibit biofilm formation and exhibited strong eradicating effects against preformed MRSA biofilms with IC50 values of 203.6 μg/mL and 379.3 μg/mL, respectively. Scanning electron microscope analysis revealed reduced cell attachments and diminished biofilm formation compared to the control. The expression levels of the icaD gene were remarkably reduced at monolaurin concentrations of 250 and 500 μg/mL. Conclusion. Monolaurin had significant inhibitory effects on MRSA pre‐existing biofilms as well as biofilm development. So, it can be employed in the treatment of severe infections, particularly those associated with biofilm formation including catheter‐associated infections.
Corn Husk Ferulic Acid Induces Apoptosis of Breast Cancer Cells via ROS‐Mediated Signaling Pathways
Authors: Sun Wei , Zhang Nai-Dan , Hou Wen-Shuang , Wang An-Qi , Wang Ying , Jin Cheng-Hao
Published: August 2024

Ferulic acid (FA) is a common phenolic acid in plants and is known to effectively combat cancer; however, the precise mechanism is still unknown. In this study, we examined the effect of FA on breast cancer (BC) cells, together with its molecular mechanism. We observed that FA greatly decreased BC cell viability without any obvious inhibitory effects on normal cell viability. Further, FA could significantly lead to the apoptosis of MDA‐MB‐231 cells. FA administration dramatically increased the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in MDA‐MB‐231 cells, and mitochondria‐dependent apoptosis occurred via the MAPK/STAT3/NF‐κB pathways. It was also demonstrated that with an increase in FA treatment time, the G2/M phase ratio increased and the expression of p‐AKT and cycle‐related proteins was inhibited. The migration of MDA‐MB‐231 cells was significantly inhibited after FA treatment. FA reduced N‐cadherin, vimentin, and SNAI 1 expression levels through the MAPK signaling pathway. Pretreatment with N‐acetylcysteine and MAPK inhibitors (SP600125 or SB203580) increased the expression of these proteins, whereas pretreatment with the MAPK inhibitor (FR180204) decreased their expression. In conclusion, FA can increase ROS levels, induce mitochondria‐dependent apoptosis, block the G2/M phase cycle, and inhibit cell migration. Thus, FA may be a promising new medication in the treatment of BC.