bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
2D MXene Nanomaterials for Versatile Biomedical Applications: Current Trends and Future Prospects
Authors: Lu Beibei , Zhu Zhenye , Ma Biyuan , Wang Wei , Zhu Rongshu , Zhang Jiaheng
Published: July 2021

Research on 2D nanomaterials is still in its early stages. Most studies have focused on elucidating the unique properties of the materials, whereas only few reports have described the biomedical applications of 2D nanomaterials. Recently, important questions about the interaction of 2D MXene nanomaterials with biological components have been raised. 2D MXenes are monolayer atomic nanosheets derived from MAX phase ceramics. As a new type of inorganic nanosystems, they are being widely used in biology and biomedicine. This review introduces the latest developments in 2D MXenes for the most advanced biomedical applications, including preparation and surface modification strategies, treatment modes, drug delivery, antibacterial activity, bioimaging, sensing, and biocompatibility. Besides, this review also discusses the current development trends and prospects of 2D inorganic nanosheets for further clinical applications. These emerging 2D inorganic MXenes will play an important role in next‐generation cancer treatments.
Manipulating the Fate of Charge Carriers with Tungsten Concentration: Enhancing Photoelectrochemical Water Oxidation of Bi2WO6
Authors: Chung Hoi Ying , Toe Cui Ying , Chen Weijian , Wen Xiaoming , Wong Roong Jien , Amal Rose , Abdi Fatwa Firdaus , Ng Yun Hau
Published: July 2021

Bismuth tungstate (Bi2WO6) thin film photoanode has exhibited an excellent photoelectrochemical (PEC) performance when the tungsten (W) concentration is increased during the fabrication. Plate‐like Bi2WO6 thin film with distinct particle sizes and surface area of different exposed facets are successfully prepared via hydrothermal reaction. The smaller particle size in conjunction with higher exposure extent of electron‐dominated {010} crystal facet leads to a shorter electron transport pathway to the bulk surface, assuring a lower charge transfer resistance and thus minimal energy loss. In addition, it is proposed based on the results from conductive atomic force microscopy that higher W concentration plays a crucial role in facilitating the charge transport of the thin film. The “self‐doped” of W in Bi2WO6 will lead to the higher carrier density and improved conductivity. Thus, the variation in the W concentration during a synthesis can be served as a promising strategy for future W based photoanode design to achieve high photoactivity in water splitting application.
An NIR‐Fluorophore‐Based Theranostic for Selective Initiation of Tumor Pyroptosis‐Induced Immunotherapy
Authors: Wang Kewei , Xiao Xuan , Jiang Maolin , Li Jisi , Zhou Jielian , Yuan Youyong
Published: July 2021

Pyroptosis is an inflammatory form of programmed cell death that can effectively eliminate malignant cells and boost anticancer immunity. However, most of the current pyroptosis inducers lack cell selectivity, which may cause severe side effects for cancer therapy. In this work, for the first time, the authors discovered that the commonly used near‐infrared (NIR) fluorogenic hemicyanine (CyNH2) induces pyrolysis to kill cancer cells and boost antitumor immunity. Cancer cells overexpressing the NAD(P)H: quinone oxidoreductase isozyme 1 (NQO1)‐responsive theranostic (NCyNH2) are designed for selective cell pyroptosis and are nonfluorescent with low toxicity before activation. In the presence of NQO1, the fluorescence of CyNH2 is restored and can selectively initiate pyroptosis of cancer cells and further lead to systemic antitumor immunity activation for solid tumor therapy. Thus, this fluorogenic NIR dye may represent a novel theranostic agent for the selective initiation of tumor pyroptosis.
Plasmonic Metasurface Resonators to Enhance Terahertz Magnetic Fields for High‐Frequency Electron Paramagnetic Resonance
Authors: Tesi Lorenzo , Bloos Dominik , Hrtoň Martin , Beneš Adam , Hentschel Mario , Kern Michal , Leavesley Alisa , Hillenbrand Rainer , Křápek Vlastimil , Šikola Tomáš , van Slageren Joris
Published: July 2021

Nanoscale magnetic systems play a decisive role in areas ranging from biology to spintronics. Although, in principle, THz electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) provides high‐resolution access to their properties, lack of sensitivity has precluded realizing this potential. To resolve this issue, the principle of plasmonic enhancement of electromagnetic fields that is used in electric dipole spectroscopies with great success is exploited, and a new type of resonators for the enhancement of THz magnetic fields in a microscopic volume is proposed. A resonator composed of an array of diabolo antennas with a back‐reflecting mirror is designed and fabricated. Simulations and THz EPR measurements demonstrate a 30‐fold signal increase for thin film samples. This enhancement factor increases to a theoretical value of 7500 for samples confined to the active region of the antennas. These findings open the door to the elucidation of fundamental processes in nanoscale samples, including junctions in spintronic devices or biological membranes.
Super‐Resolution Microscopy Using a Bioorthogonal‐Based Cholesterol Probe Provides Unprecedented Capabilities for Imaging Nanoscale Lipid Heterogeneity in Living Cells
Authors: Lorizate Maier , Terrones Oihana , Nieto‐Garai Jon Ander , Rojo‐Bartolomé Iratxe , Ciceri Dalila , Morana Ornella , Olazar‐Intxausti June , Arboleya Aroa , Martin Alexia , Szynkiewicz Marta , Calleja‐Felipe Maria , Bernardino de la Serna Jorge , Contreras F.‐Xabier
Published: July 2021

Despite more than 20 years of work since the lipid raft concept was proposed, the existence of these nanostructures remains highly controversial due to the lack of noninvasive methods to investigate their native nanorganization in living unperturbed cells. There is an unmet need for probes for direct imaging of nanoscale membrane dynamics with high spatial and temporal resolution in living cells. In this paper, a bioorthogonal‐based cholesterol probe (chol‐N3) is developed that, combined with nanoscopy, becomes a new powerful method for direct visualization and characterization of lipid raft at unprecedented resolution in living cells. The chol‐N3 probe mimics cholesterol in synthetic and cellular membranes without perturbation. When combined with live‐cell super‐resolution microscopy, chol‐N3 demonstrates the existence of cholesterol‐rich nanodomains of <50 nm at the plasma membrane of resting living cells. Using this tool, the lipid membrane structure of such subdiffraction limit domains is identified, and the nanoscale spatiotemporal organization of cholesterol in the plasma membrane of living cells reveals multiple cholesterol diffusion modes at different spatial localizations. Finally, imaging across thick organ samples outlines the potential of this new method to address essential biological questions that were previously beyond reach.
Effect of Additives and Annealing on the Performance of Nonfullerene‐Based Binary and Ternary Organic Photovoltaics
Authors: Moustafa Enas , Torimtubun Alfonsina Abat Amelenan , Pallarès Josep , Marsal Lluis F.
Published: July 2021

Fine tuning of blend morphology is a key factor that limits the performance of the bulk‐heterojunction organic photovoltaics (BHJ‐OPVs). Herein, the morphological control of the binary (PM6:Y7) and ternary (PM6:Y7:PC70BM) blends is conducted through 1‐chloronaphthalene (CN) solvent additive and thermal annealing (TA) treatment with respect to their influence on the photovoltaic performance. Moreover, a distinct study is accomplished on the optical and electronic properties of the treated and nontreated binary and ternary devices by external quantum efficiency measurements and impedance spectroscopy. The results indicate that these treatments affect the performance of the binary and ternary OPVs differently. Regarding the 2% CN addition, the current density of the binary devices is improved by ≈27%, whereas the fill factor of the ternary devices shows a pronounced increment of ≈22%. A contradictory behavior is exhibited by TA for the binary and ternary OPVs. The PCEs for binary devices (with/without CN) and 2% CN‐treated ternary ones are improved, while diminishing the PCEs of the ternary ones with 0% CN. Accordingly, the highest efficiencies of the binary and ternary OPVs are obtained due to the dual effect of 2% CN solvent additive along with the TA treatments.
Exploring the emotionally intelligent leadership of interfaith champions on campus
Authors: Morin Shauna M. , Durako Fisher Lori E. , Singer Kevin , Mayhew Matthew J. , Rockenbach Alyssa N.
Published: July 2021

Worldview is often neglected as a dimension of holistic student learning and development in college, yet certain higher education practitioners are deeply committed to supporting students with diverse religious, spiritual, and secular identities. This article explores common characteristics among these “interfaith champions” and how their own worldview identities inform their commitment to advancing interfaith equity.
AMOTL2 restrains transforming growth factor‐β1‐induced proliferation and extracellular matrix deposition of airway smooth muscle cells via the down‐regulation of YAP1 activation
Authors: Fang Ping , Deng Wen‐jing , Fan Na , Shi Jie , Shi Hong‐yang , Ou Ling , Pan Jian‐li , Yang Shuan‐ying
Published: July 2021

Angiomotin‐like 2 (AMOTL2) is a key modulator of signaling transduction and participates in the regulation of various cellular progresses under diverse physiological and pathological conditions. However, whether AMOTL2 participates in asthma pathogenesis has not been fully studied. In the present work, we studied the possible role and mechanism of AMOTL2 in regulating transforming growth factor‐β1 (TGF‐β1)‐induced proliferation and extracellular matrix (ECM) deposition of airway smooth muscle (ASM) cells. Our results showed marked reductions in the abundance of AMOTL2 in TGF‐β1‐stimulated ASM cells. Cellular functional investigations confirmed that the up‐regulation of AMOTL2 dramatically decreased the proliferation and ECM deposition induced by TGF‐β1 in ASM cells. In contrast, the depletion of AMOTL2 exacerbated TGF‐β1‐induced ASM cell proliferation and ECM deposition. Further research revealed that the overexpression of AMOTL2 restrained the activation of Yes‐associated protein 1 (YAP1) in TGF‐β1‐stimulated ASM cells. Moreover, the reactivation of YAP1 markedly reversed AMOTL2‐mediated suppression of TGF‐β1‐induced ASM cell proliferation and ECM deposition. Together, these findings suggest that AMOTL2 restrains TGF‐β1‐induced proliferation and ECM deposition of ASM cells by down‐regulating YAP1 activation.
Crafting an Event, an Event on Craft. Working Together to Represent Migration Experiences
Authors: Bacon Lucie , Desille Amandine , Paté Noémie
Published: July 2021

The following text aims at analysing a posteriori the organisation of a public gathering on international migration which took place in Marseille in 2018, and brought together scientific, artistic and militant practices. We first describe the craft of this event. Then, we reflect upon the theme of this book section - collaboration. We ask to which extent hybrid practices, that is the de-compartmentalising of social sciences, art and activism, enable the deconstruction of sensational and de-humanised representations of migrations. Finally, we question the limits for these collaborations, when power hierarchies may reactivate.
Conclusions: Migrants Through Images
Authors: Sebag Joyce , Durand Jean-Pierre
Published: July 2021

The three chapters in this part of the book have quite different starting points, objectives and questions. This makes them rich and allows a dialogue between the authors on a meta-level: not in the methods of description or analysis of the daily life of migrants, or the representations in their new lives, but in the one that questions the choices made by the producers of images to account for this reality, immaterial, intimate and profound.
An exploratory study of the impact of firecracker-induced hand injuries on adolescents and their parents
Authors: van de Kar Annekatrien Louise , Eijffinger Elianne Madeleine , Lapid Oren , van der Horst Chantal Mathilda Antonius Maria , de Haart Mirjam
Published: July 2021

Background

Severe hand injuries due to firecrackers are unfortunately common in the Netherlands. These injuries are expected to have long-term functional and psychological sequalae. We performed a study to assess the long-term impact of such injuries on the victims and their parents.

Methods

Eight sequential adolescent patients that underwent surgery for firecracker-induced severe hand injuries between September 2012 and March 2015 were included. The patient files were assessed for data on hand function. The impact of the injuries was measured by questionnaires and measure instruments: VAS for pain, CHEQ2.0 and COPM-DLV for activities and participation, PedsQL-4.0 for participation and quality of life, RSES for self-esteem, and DT-P for impact on parents.

Results

Seven of the eight patients underwent (partial) hand amputation. Three adolescents still reported pain at a mean of 3.2 years post-trauma. All adolescents required more time than peers performing activities. Seven showed a total of 34 activity and participation problems. One adolescent showed no problems at all. The adolescents showed a mean score of 81 on the PedsQL-4.0, which was not different to healthy adolescents. None had problematic low self-esteem. Six out of eight parents had elevated distress; three parents stated that they still needed psychological support.

Conclusions

Severe hand trauma due to firecrackers has an evident impact on hand function and activities in all adolescents. The injuries have a significant long-lasting psychological impact on the parents. Prolonged psychological help is recommended for the adolescents as well as their parents with a more family-centered approach.

Level of evidence: Level IV, therapeutic study.
More or less of me and you: self-relevance augments the effects of item probability on stimulus prioritization
Authors: Svensson Saga L. , Golubickis Marius , Maclean Hollie , Falbén Johanna K. , Persson Linn M. , Tsamadi Dimitra , Caughey Siobhan , Sahraie Arash , Macrae C. Neil
Published: July 2021

Self-relevance exerts a powerful influence on information processing. Compared to material associated with other people, personally meaningful stimuli are prioritized during decision-making. Further exploring the character of this effect, here we considered the extent to which stimulus enhancement is impacted by the frequency of self-relevant versus friend-relevant material. In a matching task, participants reported whether shape-label stimulus pairs corresponded to previously learned associations (e.g., triangle = self, square = friend). Crucially however, before the task commenced, stimulus-based expectancies were provided indicating the probability with which both self- and friend-related shapes would be encountered. The results revealed that task performance was impacted by the frequency of stimulus presentation in combination with the personal relevance of the items. When self- and friend-related shapes appeared with equal frequencies, a self-prioritization effect emerged (Expt. 1). Additionally, in both confirmatory (Expt. 2) and dis-confirmatory (Expt. 3) task contexts, stimuli that were encountered frequently (vs. infrequently) were prioritized, an effect that was most pronounced for self-relevant (vs. friend-relevant) items. Further computational analyses indicated that, in each of the reported experiments, differences in performance were underpinned by variation in the rate of information uptake, with evidence extracted more rapidly from self-relevant compared to friend-relevant stimuli. These findings advance our understanding of the emergence and origin of stimulus-prioritization effects during decisional processing.
A Geometric Integration Approach to Nonsmooth, Nonconvex Optimisation
Authors: Riis Erlend S. , Ehrhardt Matthias J. , Quispel G. R. W. , Schönlieb Carola-Bibiane
Published: July 2021

The optimisation of nonsmooth, nonconvex functions without access to gradients is a particularly challenging problem that is frequently encountered, for example in model parameter optimisation problems. Bilevel optimisation of parameters is a standard setting in areas such as variational regularisation problems and supervised machine learning. We present efficient and robust derivative-free methods called randomised Itoh–Abe methods. These are generalisations of the Itoh–Abe discrete gradient method, a well-known scheme from geometric integration, which has previously only been considered in the smooth setting. We demonstrate that the method and its favourable energy dissipation properties are well defined in the nonsmooth setting. Furthermore, we prove that whenever the objective function is locally Lipschitz continuous, the iterates almost surely converge to a connected set of Clarke stationary points. We present an implementation of the methods, and apply it to various test problems. The numerical results indicate that the randomised Itoh–Abe methods can be superior to state-of-the-art derivative-free optimisation methods in solving nonsmooth problems while still remaining competitive in terms of efficiency.
An alternative perspective on copositive and convex relaxations of nonconvex quadratic programs
Authors: Yıldırım E. Alper
Published: July 2021

We study convex relaxations of nonconvex quadratic programs. We identify a family of so-called feasibility preserving convex relaxations, which includes the well-known copositive and doubly nonnegative relaxations, with the property that the convex relaxation is feasible if and only if the nonconvex quadratic program is feasible. We observe that each convex relaxation in this family implicitly induces a convex underestimator of the objective function on the feasible region of the quadratic program. This alternative perspective on convex relaxations enables us to establish several useful properties of the corresponding convex underestimators. In particular, if the recession cone of the feasible region of the quadratic program does not contain any directions of negative curvature, we show that the convex underestimator arising from the copositive relaxation is precisely the convex envelope of the objective function of the quadratic program, strengthening Burer’s well-known result on the exactness of the copositive relaxation in the case of nonconvex quadratic programs. We also present an algorithmic recipe for constructing instances of quadratic programs with a finite optimal value but an unbounded relaxation for a rather large family of convex relaxations including the doubly nonnegative relaxation.
Promotion of Resilience in Migrants: A Systematic Review of Study and Psychosocial Intervention
Authors: Ciaramella Maria , Monacelli Nadia , Cocimano Livia Concetta Eugenia
Published: July 2021

This systematic review aimed to contribute to a better and more focused understanding of the link between the concept of resilience and psychosocial interventions in the migrant population. The research questions concerned the type of population involved, definition of resilience, methodological choices and which intervention programmes were targeted at migrants. In the 90 articles included, an heterogeneity in defining resilience or not well specified definition resulted. Different migratory experiences were not adequately considered in the selection of participants. Few resilience interventions on migrants were resulted. A lack of procedure’s descriptions that keep in account specific migrants’ life-experiences and efficacy’s measures were highlighted.
Understanding institutional barriers in the climate change adaptation planning process of the city of Beirut: vicious cycles and opportunities
Authors: Zea-Reyes Leonardo , Olivotto Veronica , Bergh Sylvia I.
Published: July 2021

Cities around the world are confronted with the need to put in place climate adaptation policies to protect citizens and properties from climate change impacts. This article applies components of the framework developed by Moser and Ekström (2010) onto empirical qualitative data to diagnose institutional barriers to climate change adaptation in the Municipality of Beirut, Lebanon. Our approach reveals the presence of two vicious cycles influencing each other. In the first cycle, the root cause barrier is major political interference generating competing priorities and poor individual interest in climate change. A second vicious cycle is derived from feedbacks caused by the first and leading to the absence of a dedicated department where sector specific climate risk information is gathered and shared with other departments, limited knowledge and scientific understanding, as well as a distorted framing or vision, where climate change is considered unrelated to other issues and is to be dealt with at higher levels of government. The article also highlights the need to analyze interlinkages between barriers in order to suggest how to overcome them. The most common way to overcome barriers according to interviewees is through national and international support followed by the creation of a data bank. These opportunities could be explored by national and international policy-makers to break the deadlock in Beirut.
Psychological resources, dropout risk and academic performance in university students – pattern-oriented analysis and prospective study of Hungarian freshmen
Authors: Martos Tamás , Jagodics Balázs , Kőrössy Judit , Szabó Éva
Published: July 2021

A growing number of studies support the idea that academic performance is based on specific psychological resources and cognitive abilities. As early university dropout is a widespread problem, it is increasingly important to explore which psychological resources can enhance learning, academic motivation, and achievement during the transition from high school to university. The goal of our study was to explore the psychological resources at the start of the studies linked to subsequent academic achievement. Coping mechanisms, time perspective, self-esteem, mindset, motivation, and test anxiety were measured using questionnaires in a voluntary online study among first-year university students (N = 1113, 53.0 % female). Using exploratory factor analysis, we identified three different factors of psychological resources: ‘Academic achievement focus’, ‘Self-confidence’, and 'Search for interests’. Based on the factor scores, hierarchical cluster analysis identified five subgroups of students. These subgroups showed differential association with first semester GPA and the number of attained credits. The combination of a focus on high academic achievement but low self-confidence could be traced as characteristics predicting the highest risk of decreased achievement and loss of credits. These results indicate that training in psychological resources could support academic achievement and prevent university dropout.
Salinity and food security in southwest coastal Bangladesh: impacts on household food production and strategies for adaptation
Authors: Lam Yukyan , Winch Peter J. , Nizame Fosiul Alam , Broaddus-Shea Elena T. , Harun Md. Golam Dostogir , Surkan Pamela J.
Published: July 2021

The rising salinity of land and water is an important, but understudied, climate change-sensitive trend that can exert devastating impacts on food security. This mixed methods investigation combines salinity testing with qualitative research methods to explore these impacts in one of the most salinity-affected regions in the world—the Ganges River Delta. Data collection in 2015 and 2016 undertaken in Bangladesh’s southwest coastal region and Dhaka consisted of 83 in-depth household and stakeholder interviews, six community focus groups, and salinity testing of 27 soil and 45 surface and groundwater samples. Results show that household food production is a multifaceted cornerstone of rural livelihood in the southwest coastal region, and virtually every component of it—from rice plantation and homestead gardening to livestock cultivation and aquaculture—is being negatively affected by salinity. Although households have attempted multiple strategies for adapting food production, effective adaptation remains elusive. At the community level, improved irrigation and floodplain management, as well as restrictions on saltwater aquaculture to abate salinity, are viewed as promising interventions. However, the potential of such measures remains unrealized on a broad scale, as they require a level of external resources and regulation not yet provided by the NGO and government sectors. This study elucidates issues of accessibility, equity, and governance surrounding agricultural interventions for climate change-related salinity adaptation, and its findings can help inform the community of organizations that will increasingly need to grapple with salinity in order to guarantee food security in the context of environmental change.
The Effect of Mindfulness-Based Interventions on Stress, Depression and Anxiety During the Perinatal Period in Women Without Pre-existing Stress, Depressive or Anxiety Disorders: a Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Controlled Trials
Authors: Corbally Linda , Wilkinson Mick
Published: July 2021

Objectives

The objective of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to examine controlled trial evidence for the effectiveness of mindfulness-based interventions on stress, anxiety and depression in the perinatal period in women without pre-existing mental health issues.

Methods

Six databases were searched for studies exploring the effects of mindfulness-based interventions on mental health outcomes of women during the perinatal period. Quality of both controlled trial meeting inclusion criteria were assessed using a tool specifically designed for meta-analyses of mindfulness-based interventions. Effect sizes were extracted for measures of mindfulness, depression, stress and anxiety outcomes. Effects were pooled in separate meta-analyses for all outcomes except anxiety which lacked sufficient studies.

Results

Twelve studies were analysed. Pooled effects suggest that mindfulness-based interventions cause small but clear increases in mindfulness and reductions in depression in women without pre-existing disorders. Effects of mindfulness-based interventions on other outcomes were unclear and confounded by heterogeneity.

Conclusions

Available controlled trial evidence suggests that mindfulness-based interventions improve mindfulness and decrease symptoms of depression during pregnancy in women without pre-existing mental health issues and might be a useful approach to prevent or attenuate the development of depression in the perinatal period.
An IoT enabled system for enhanced air quality monitoring and prediction on the edge
Authors: Moursi Ahmed Samy , El-Fishawy Nawal , Djahel Soufiene , Shouman Marwa Ahmed
Published: July 2021

Air pollution is a major issue resulting from the excessive use of conventional energy sources in developing countries and worldwide. Particulate Matter less than 2.5 µm in diameter (PM2.5) is the most dangerous air pollutant invading the human respiratory system and causing lung and heart diseases. Therefore, innovative air pollution forecasting methods and systems are required to reduce such risk. To that end, this paper proposes an Internet of Things (IoT) enabled system for monitoring and predicting PM2.5 concentration on both edge devices and the cloud. This system employs a hybrid prediction architecture using several Machine Learning (ML) algorithms hosted by Nonlinear AutoRegression with eXogenous input (NARX). It uses the past 24 h of PM2.5, cumulated wind speed and cumulated rain hours to predict the next hour of PM2.5. This system was tested on a PC to evaluate cloud prediction and a Raspberry Pi to evaluate edge devices’ prediction. Such a system is essential, responding quickly to air pollution in remote areas with low bandwidth or no internet connection. The performance of our system was assessed using Root Mean Square Error (RMSE), Normalized Root Mean Square Error (NRMSE), coefficient of determination (R2), Index of Agreement (IA), and duration in seconds. The obtained results highlighted that NARX/LSTM achieved the highest R2 and IA and the least RMSE and NRMSE, outperforming other previously proposed deep learning hybrid algorithms. In contrast, NARX/XGBRF achieved the best balance between accuracy and speed on the Raspberry Pi.
COVID-19 and Aspiration Pneumonia: Similar Pulmonary Findings with Different Diagnoses—a Pitfall in [18F]FDG PET/CT
Authors: Liberini Virginia , Grimaldi Serena , Huellner Martin W. , Giunta Francesca , Bachi Costanza , Dall’Armellina Sara , Onesti Federica , Ceci Francesco , Boccomini Carola , Icardi Massimiliano , Deandreis Désirée
Published: July 2021

Since December 2019, the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has become a worldwide pandemic. Especially in the centers most affected by the pandemic, symptoms (such as fever, cough, myalgia, or fatigue) and/or radiological signs (such as ground-glass opacity) typically related to COVID-19 often diverted clinicians’ attention from other diseases. Despite the urgency to recognize and cure SARS-CoV-2 infection, a plethora of differential diagnoses must be considered, and other diseases must be equally and promptly treated, as described in this case report.
Thinking like a Linguist
Authors: Sandoval Jordan B. , Denham Kristin E.
Published: July 2021

This is an engaging introduction to the study of language for undergraduate or beginning graduate students, aimed especially at those who would like to continue further linguistic study. It introduces students to analytical thinking about language, but goes beyond existing texts to show what it means to think like a scientist about language, through the exploration of data and interactive problem sets. A key feature of this text is its flexibility. With its focus on foundational areas of linguistics and scientific analysis, it can be used in a variety of course types, with instructors using it alongside other information or texts as appropriate for their own courses of study. The text can also serve as a supplementary text in other related fields (Speech and Hearing Sciences, Psychology, Education, Computer Science, Anthropology, and others) to help learners in these areas better understand how linguists think about and work with language data. No prerequisites are necessary. While each chapter often references content from the others, the three central chapters on sound, structure, and meaning, may be used in any order.
FAIR TRANSITION FROM DEFINED BENEFIT TO TARGET BENEFIT
Authors: Zhu Xiaobai , Hardy Mary , Saunders David
Published: July 2021

Target benefit (TB) plans that incorporate intergenerational risk sharing have been demonstrated to be welfare improving over the long term. However, there has been little discussion of the short-term benefits for members in a defined benefit (DB) plan that is transitioning to TB. In this paper, we adopt a two-step approach that is designed to ensure the long-term sustainability of the new plan, without unduly sacrificing the benefit security of current retirees. We propose a cohort-based transition plan for reducing intergenerational inequity. Our study is based on simulations using an economic scenario generator with some theoretical results under simplified settings.
Small Vessel Vasculitis in Biopsies Of Anti-mog Encephalitis
Authors: Chaharyn Bradley M. , Dunham Christopher P.
Published: July 2021

We report the neuropathology of two pediatric brain biopsy cases associated with serum anti-myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG) positivity. Descriptions of anti-MOG associated neuropathology are limited, with initial reports describing various patterns of inflammatory demyelination. Our first patient presented with confusion, speech abnormalities and personality changes following a treated strep throat infection. Our second patient had a past medical history of neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) and presented with hypersomnolence and focal neurological deficits. MRI abnormalities included diffuse scattered T2 FLAIR hyperintensities +/- enhancement. CSF was positive for anti-MOG antibodies in both cases, while one case exhibited additional anti-NMDA-R antibodies. Brain biopsies revealed vasocentric mononuclear inflammation featuring a predominance of lymphocytes that included intramural forms, as well as diffuse microglial activation, but no evidence of microglial nodules or microorganisms. One case demonstrated mild perivascular demyelination. The prevailing pattern in both cases was suggestive of “small vessel childhood primary angiitis of the central nervous system” (SVcPACNS). Our results parallel recent reports of anti-MOG neuropathology describing small vessel vasculitis, contrary to initial and subsequent reports that describe “encephalitis”. The foregoing suggests that the neuropathology associated with serum anti-MOG positivity may be broader than first appreciated. Moreover, this pattern of vasculitis might have implications for the natural history of this nascent disorder.

Learning Objectives

Define anti-MOG encephalitis.

Recognize the pathologic spectrum of reported cases of anti-MOG encephalitis.

Contrast the pathologic features of pediatric and adult CNS vasculitis.

Describe the histologic overlap of vasculitis and encephalitis.
Spectrum Of White Matter Changes In Ischemic Lesions
Authors: Alturkustani Murad , Ang Lee -Cyn
Published: July 2021

Morphological studies on cerebral ischemia concentrate mainly on the grey matter and white matter changes are regarded as secondary or overlapping injuries. Immunohistochemical (IHC) studies to highlight the combination of various cellular changes in ischemic white matter but have not well documented. We selected 11 archival cases of 3 different ischemic processes (i.e. large vessel occlusion, small vessel occlusion, and hypoperfusion) with survival period range 2-35 days from the ischemic event. The white matter was examined using HE-LFB histochemistry, APP, GFAP, and HLA-DR immunostains focusing on myelin, axonal, astrocytic and microglial changes respectively. The various white matter changes are probably reflective of the different mechanism, duration, severity and extent of ischemia. The APP-IHC shows patchy axonal expression, swelling, and finally complete axonal loss. HLADR-IHC highlights early microglial injuries (fragmentation of processes), complete cell loss, and subsequent replacement by cells of macrophage phenotype. Surrounding the ischemic areas are reactive microglia. Astrocytic changes range from fragmentation of processes (clasmatodendrosis) to different stages of cell loss. Astrocytic swelling tends to occur with cerebral edema. Large vessel occlusion results in complete tissue loss while in small vessel disease the damage is more selective. The injury is generally more subtle in hypoperfusion but can be pronounced focally. Our study has documented the spectrum of white matter injury in different scenarios of cerebral ischemia.

Learning Objective

Describe the cellular and immunohistochemical changes in the ischemic white matter
Cortical Dysplasia Teaching Pathology to a Machine
Authors: Cosma Delaney , Khan Ali , Hammond Robert
Published: July 2021

Many patients with epilepsy do not achieve adequate pharmacologic control of their seizures and must consider surgical options. Many such patients undergo temporal lobectomy and experience a marked reduction in the frequency and severity of their seizures. However, many are less fortunate. One suspected factor for the latter group is the limited ability of clinical imaging to delineate subtle epileptogenic abnormalities, leading to subtotal resection of lesional tissue. A long range goal in this field is to increase the sensitivity and specificity of detecting such abnormalities by “training” MRI with pathology, feature analysis and machine learning. A key component of this is the ability to segment histopathology to facilitate its mapping to co-registered MRI. A foundational step in this process is to determine whether or not algorithms are capable of detecting the architectural abnormalities in cortical dysplasia on the basis of these segmentations. In brief, reliable semi-automated segmentations were developed to extract a number of features including neuron size, clustering, eccentricity, field-fraction and polarity. Feature analyses using t-Distributed Stochastic Neighbor Embedding (t-SNE) plots demonstrate a non-random association between selected features and diagnostic categories. These results indicate that automated algorithms are capable of distinguishing dysplastic from normal cortex on the basis of semi-automated segmentations.

Learning Objectives

Describe the value of segmentation in image analysis

Define the role of feature analysis such as t-SNE in high dimensionality histopathology data
Terms of endearment in English
Authors: Landmann Julia
Published: July 2021

Terms of endearment enjoy great popularity in all languages to express feelings such as affection and tenderness. The present paper concentrates on the use of these types of words in English. The Historical Thesaurus of the Oxford English Dictionary (henceforth the HTOED) serves as a valuable tool to identify the plethora of terms of endearment which became established in English over the centuries.
Epidemiologic trends of hepatitis A in different age groups and regions of China from 1990 to 2018: observational population-based study
Authors: Zheng Bo , Wen Zexuan , Pan Jinhua , Wang Weibing
Published: July 2021

This study characterises changes in the incidence and mortality of hepatitis A in different age groups and provinces of China from 1990 to 2018, and evaluates the effect of the nation-wide expanded programme on immunisation (EPI). A mathematical model was used to estimate the relative change in incidence and mortality in different provinces and age groups. Interrupted time series regression was applied to evaluate the impacts of the inclusion of vaccination in the EPI during 2007–2018. The geographic clustering of hepatitis A incidence was assessed using global Moran's I and changing trends over time were estimated using joinpoint regression analysis. Both the incidence (odds ratio (OR) for overall relative change: 0.86; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.85–0.87; P < 0.0001) and the mortality rate (OR for overall relative change: 0.84; 95% CI: 0.83–0.85; P < 0.0001) decreased. Most age groups had significant declines in reported incidence over time. The incidence and mortality of hepatitis A significantly reduced after inclusion of hepatitis A vaccine in EPI, showing that the EPI strategy had a continuous effect on the decreasing trend of hepatitis A burden. Increasing the coverage rate of the vaccine and improving hygiene conditions are the key measures for the control of hepatitis A in China.
Socio-economic factors associated with the incidence of Shiga-toxin producing Escherichia coli (STEC) enteritis and cryptosporidiosis in the Republic of Ireland, 2008–2017
Authors: Cleary E. , Boudou M. , ÓhAiseadha C. , McKeown P. , Garvey P. , O'Dwyer J. , Hynds P.
Published: July 2021

The Republic of Ireland (ROI) currently reports the highest incidence rates of Shiga-toxin producing Escherichia coli (STEC) enteritis and cryptosporidiosis in Europe, with the spatial distribution of both infections exhibiting a clear urban/rural divide. To date, no investigation of the role of socio-demographic profile on the incidence of either infection in the ROI has been undertaken. The current study employed bivariate analyses and Random Forest classification to identify associations between individual components of a national deprivation index and spatially aggregated cases of STEC enteritis and cryptosporidiosis. Classification accuracies ranged from 78.2% (STEC, urban) to 90.6% (cryptosporidiosis, rural). STEC incidence was (negatively) associated with a mean number of persons per room and percentage of local authority housing in both urban and rural areas, addition to lower levels of education in rural areas, while lower unemployment rates were associated with both infections, irrespective of settlement type. Lower levels of third-level education were associated with cryptosporidiosis in rural areas only. This study highlights settlement-specific disparities with respect to education, unemployment and household composition, associated with the incidence of enteric infection. Study findings may be employed for improved risk communication and surveillance to safeguard public health across socio-demographic profiles.
Early-life disease environment and adult height in historical populations
Authors: Casal Bruno , Rivera Berta , Mourelle Estefanía
Published: July 2021

Nutrition and the incidence of diseases during early life are considered environmental factors that determine people’s height when they become adults. While there is extensive literature focusing on the relationship between physical growth, general mortality and infant mortality rates, few studies analyse the impact of certain disease groups on the final height of historical populations. Using regional mortality rates by causes of death, the main objective of this study is to determine the onset of the disease environment during early life for populations born in Spain between 1916 and 1930, and its relationship with the stature reached at 21 years of age. A population-averaged model is performed on epidemic-infectious, gastrointestinal, and congenital diseases during the gestation period and first year of life. The disease burden in early life had a statistically significant negative effect on adult stature. These results support the premise that an improvement in the disease environment could lead to a greater number of short children surviving and therefore a decrease in the average height.
Developmental variation in testosterone:cortisol ratio alters cortical- and amygdala-based cognitive processes
Authors: Lew Jimin , Jones Sherri Lee , Caccese Christina , Orfi Isobel , Little Charlotte , Botteron Kelly N. , McCracken James T. , Nguyen Tuong-Vi
Published: July 2021

Testosterone (T) and cortisol (C) are the end products of neuroendocrine axes that interact with the process of shaping brain structure and function. Relative levels of T:C (TC ratio) may alter prefrontal–amygdala functional connectivity in adulthood. What remains unclear is whether TC-related effects are rooted to childhood and adolescence. We used a healthy cohort of 4–22-year-olds to test for associations between TC ratios, brain structure (amygdala volume, cortical thickness (CTh), and their coordinated growth), as well as cognitive and behavioral development. We found greater TC ratios to be associated with the growth of specific brain structures: 1) parietal CTh; 2) covariance of the amygdala with CTh in visual and somatosensory areas. These brain parameters were in turn associated with lower verbal/executive function and higher spatial working memory. In sum, individual TC profiles may confer a particular brain phenotype and set of cognitive strengths and vulnerabilities, prior to adulthood.
Examining Conditions Supporting the Development of Anomalous Charge Structures in Supercell Thunderstorms in the Southeastern United States
Authors: Stough Sarah M. , Carey Lawrence D. , Schultz Christopher J. , Cecil Daniel J.
Published: July 2021

Hypotheses regarding favorable conditions for anomalous charging have primarily resulted from studies within the Great Plains region of the United States, where the efficiency of warm precipitation processes is thought to be fundamental. Rare observations of anomalous charge structures in the Southeastern region challenge existing conceptual models used to explain anomalous charging. As a rigorous evaluation of conditions that support anomalous charge structures, environmental characteristics and bulk kinematic and microphysical properties of two normal and two anomalous supercell thunderstorms observed in the Southeast were compared. Within the anomalous supercells, greater quantities of precipitation ice were identified at higher altitudes and colder temperatures, suggesting a greater depth of riming growth and increased vertical transport of rimed hydrometeors. Deeper anomalous supercell updrafts were larger and stronger in the upper mixed‐phase and glaciated regions. However, normal supercells were characterized by more robust low‐level updrafts, resulting in comparable warm cloud residence times that suggested warm precipitation processes were not necessarily less efficient in the anomalous supercells. Indications of enhanced mixed‐phase liquid water content in favor of anomalous charging were observed in the anomalous supercells, though contrasts in related environmental parameters were not as large as observed in other comparative studies. Anomalous supercell environments were characterized by increased instability, shallower warm cloud depth, as well as lower relative humidity in the 700–500 mb layer. Evidence of impacts from dry air in anomalous storm structures suggested that water vapor content may have affected particle‐scale charge transfer in support of anomalous charge structure development.
Training Challenges and Opportunities amid the COVID-19 Pandemic: Perspectives From Pediatric Psychology Interns
Authors: Iskander Jeannette M. , Schaefer Megan R. , Kamara Dana , Tams Sean T. , Yardley Heather L.
Published: July 2021

Objective: The COVID-19 pandemic presented many personal and professional challenges to pediatric psychology interns as they navigated new policies and provided clinical care via telehealth to patients and families during an unprecedented time. Method: This commentary explores the experiences of 4 pediatric psychology interns and their training director during the height of the pandemic with an emphasis on challenges, opportunities, and lessons learned relevant to internship training. Results: There were numerous challenges in adapting and completing training during the pandemic, such as the rapid transition to telehealth, loss of training opportunities, providing care to inpatient and high-risk patients, and increased personal stress and social isolation. Despite these challenges, there were unique opportunities that arose. Interns were given opportunities to learn a new modality of care (telehealth), expand their breadth of training, practice innovation, receive live supervision in unobtrusive ways, and actively support their medical colleagues. Conclusions: Looking toward the future of health care, interns will significantly benefit from the skills learned during this pandemic, particularly as skills in providing evidence-based care via telehealth will continue to benefit psychologists seeking to increase access to care for patients and families. Institutions providing pediatric psychology internship training may also benefit from incorporating these training opportunities and lessons learned into future internship training in order to best support interns’ professional and personal needs.

Implications for Impact Statement

Navigating internship during a crisis (i.e., the COVID-19 pandemic) may present both challenges and opportunities for interns and training programs. Training programs may consider ways to adapt their programs to ensure that training competencies are addressed.