bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Barriers and facilitators for people with severe mental illness accessing cancer screening: A systematic review
Authors: Tuschick Emma , Barker Jill , Giles Emma L. , Jones Susan , Hogg Julie , Kanmodi Kehinde K. , Sill Jula , Sykes Kate
Published: January 2024

Objective

Evidence suggests that people with severe mental illness (PwSMI) are 2.1 times more likely to die from cancer before the age of 75, compared to people without Severe mental illness (SMI). Yet, cancer screening uptake is low among PwSMI. This mixed‐methods systematic review aimed to identify the barriers and facilitators for PwSMI deciding to access and attend primary cancer screening of the cervix, breast and colon.

Methods

Six electronic databases and two grey literature sources were searched, with 1017 records screened against inclusion criteria. Included papers were appraised and data synthesised using the constructs of Normalisation Process Theory.

Results

Twenty papers met the inclusion criteria. Factors that impact upon uptake of PwSMI accessing cancer screening were found to include age, gender, race, and income. Common barriers to attending screening included poor communication from healthcare staff, stigmatising attitudes, and accessibility problems such as no access to transportation. While, facilitators included social support from friends, family, and healthcare providers.

Conclusions

Due to ease and privacy, colorectal screening was found to have fewer barriers when compared to cervical and breast screening. The review identified multiple barriers that can be addressed and targeted to support decision‐making for cancer screening among PwSMI. The protocol was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42022331781).
Mechanistic study of the transmission pattern of the SARS‐CoV‐2 omicron variant
Authors: An Ke , Yang Xianzhi , Luo Mengqi , Yan Junfang , Xu Peiyi , Zhang Honghui , Li Yuqing , Wu Song , Warshel Arieh , Bai Chen
Published: January 2024

The omicron variant of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) characterized by 30 mutations in its spike protein, has rapidly spread worldwide since November 2021, significantly exacerbating the ongoing COVID‐19 pandemic. In order to investigate the relationship between these mutations and the variant's high transmissibility, we conducted a systematic analysis of the mutational effect on spike–angiotensin‐converting enzyme‐2 (ACE2) interactions and explored the structural/energy correlation of key mutations, utilizing a reliable coarse‐grained model. Our study extended beyond the receptor‐binding domain (RBD) of spike trimer through comprehensive modeling of the full‐length spike trimer rather than just the RBD. Our free‐energy calculation revealed that the enhanced binding affinity between the spike protein and the ACE2 receptor is correlated with the increased structural stability of the isolated spike protein, thus explaining the omicron variant's heightened transmissibility. The conclusion was supported by our experimental analyses involving the expression and purification of the full‐length spike trimer. Furthermore, the energy decomposition analysis established those electrostatic interactions make major contributions to this effect. We categorized the mutations into four groups and established an analytical framework that can be employed in studying future mutations. Additionally, our calculations rationalized the reduced affinity of the omicron variant towards most available therapeutic neutralizing antibodies, when compared with the wild type. By providing concrete experimental data and offering a solid explanation, this study contributes to a better understanding of the relationship between theories and observations and lays the foundation for future investigations.
Bearing‐based formation stabilization using event‐triggered control
Authors: Sewlia Mayank , Zelazo Daniel
Published: January 2024

This article studies two distributed bearing‐based event‐triggered schemes to achieve formation stabilization. We focus on systems with double‐integrator dynamics with bearings sensing capabilities. Firstly, we propose a bearing‐only event‐triggered condition (ETC) that is edge‐dependent which drives the control updates of the agents using only information dependent on relative sensed quantities. Secondly, along with bearing measurements we make use of local agent state measurements to arrive at an ETC that uses this collective measurement to drive the sensing and control updates of an agent. In doing so, we propose a new control law that renders the final formation stationary. Simulations are provided to verify the validity of the proposed algorithms.
Confidence sets for a level set in linear regression
Authors: Wan Fang , Liu Wei , Bretz Frank
Published: January 2024

Regression modeling is the workhorse of statistics and there is a vast literature on estimation of the regression function. It has been realized in recent years that in regression analysis the ultimate aim may be the estimation of a level set of the regression function, ie, the set of covariate values for which the regression function exceeds a predefined level, instead of the estimation of the regression function itself. The published work on estimation of the level set has thus far focused mainly on nonparametric regression, especially on point estimation. In this article, the construction of confidence sets for the level set of linear regression is considered. In particular, level upper, lower and two‐sided confidence sets are constructed for the normal‐error linear regression. It is shown that these confidence sets can be easily constructed from the corresponding level simultaneous confidence bands. It is also pointed out that the construction method is readily applicable to other parametric regression models where the mean response depends on a linear predictor through a monotonic link function, which include generalized linear models, linear mixed models and generalized linear mixed models. Therefore, the method proposed in this article is widely applicable. Simulation studies with both linear and generalized linear models are conducted to assess the method and real examples are used to illustrate the method.
Superior Strength, Toughness, and Damage‐Tolerance Observed in Microlattices of Aperiodic Unit Cells
Authors: Wang Xinxin , Li Xinwei , Li Zhendong , Wang Zhonggang , Zhai Wei
Published: January 2024

Characterized by periodic cellular unit cells, microlattices offer exceptional potential as lightweight and robust materials. However, their inherent periodicity poses the risk of catastrophic global failure. To address this limitation, a novel approach, that is to introduce microlattices composed of aperiodic unit cells inspired by Einstein's tile, where the orientation of cells never repeats in the same orientation is proposed. Experiments and simulations are conducted to validate the concept by comparing compressive responses of the aperiodic microlattices with those of common periodic microlattices. Indeed, the microlattices exhibit stable and progressive compressive deformation, contrasting with catastrophic fracture of periodic structures. At the same relative density, the microlattices outperform the periodic ones, exhibiting fracture strain, energy absorption, crushing stress efficiency, and smoothness coefficients at least 830%, 300%, 130%, and 160% higher, respectively. These improvements can be attributed to aperiodicity, where diverse failure thresholds exist locally due to varying strut angles and contact modes during compression. This effectively prevents both global fracture and abrupt stress drops. Furthermore, the aperiodic microlattice exhibits good damage tolerance with excellent deformation recoverability, retaining 76% ultimate stress post‐recovery at 30% compressive strain. Overall, a novel concept of adopting aperiodic cell arrangements to achieve damage‐tolerant microlattice metamaterials is presented.
High‐Throughput Screening of pH‐Dependent β‐sheet Self‐Assembling Peptide
Authors: Ye Xin‐Wei , Tian Wen , Han Lu , Li Yi‐Jing , Liu Shan , Lai Wen‐Jia , Liu Yi‐Xuan , Wang Lei , Yang Pei‐Pei , Wang Hao
Published: January 2024

pH‐dependent peptide biomaterials hold tremendous potential for cell delivery and tissue engineering. However, identification of responsive self‐assembling sequences with specified secondary structure remains a challenge. In this work, An experimental procedure based on the one‐bead one‐compound (OBOC) combinatorial library is developed to rapidly screen self‐assembling β‐sheet peptides at neutral aqueous solution (pH 7.5) and disassemble at weak acidic condition (pH 6.5). Using the hydrophobic fluorescent molecule thioflavin T (ThT) as a probe, resin beads displaying self‐assembling peptides show fluorescence under pH 7.5 due to the insertion of ThT into the hydrophobic domain, and are further cultured in pH 6.5 solution. The beads with extinguished fluorescence are selected. Three heptapeptides are identified that can self‐assemble into nanofibers or nanoparticles at pH 7.5 and disassemble at pH 6.5. P1 (LVEFRHY) shows a rapid acid response and morphology transformation with pH modulation. Changes in the charges of histidine and hydrophobic phenyl motif of phenylalanine may play important roles in the formation of pH‐responsive β‐sheet nanofiber. This high‐throughput screening method provides an efficient way to identify pH‐dependent β‐sheet self‐assembling peptide and gain insights into structural design of such nanomaterials.
Multifunctional Iron Selenate Sheath of Fe‐Based Anode Achieving High‐Rate Capacity‐Durability Combination of Aqueous Hybrid Energy Storage Devices
Authors: Song Jinyue , Fan Hongguang , Wang Yanpeng , Li Qingping , Zhao Jingwen , Shao Chenchen , Li Tao , Jin Yongcheng , Liu Shuang , Liu Wei
Published: January 2024

The introduction of battery‐type cathode has been commonly considered a preferred approach to boost the energy density of aqueous hybrid energy storage devices (AHESDs) in alkalic systems, but AHESDs with both high energy density and power density are rare due to the great challenge in designing battery‐type anode materials with high rate and durability comparable to capacitive‐type carbon anodes. In this paper, a well‐hydrated iron selenate (FeSeO) sheath is constructed around FeOOH nanorods by a facile electrochemical activation, demonstrating the unique multifunction in fasting charge diffusion, promoting the dissociation of H2O, and inhibiting the irreversible phase transition of FeOOH to inert γ‐Fe2O3, which endow the hydrated sheath coated Fe‐based anodes with an impressive rate capability and superior durability. Thanks to the comprehensive performance of this Fe‐based anode, the assembled AHESD delivered a high energy density of 117 Wh kg−1 with the extraordinary durability of almost 100% capacity retention after 40 000 cycles. Even at an ultrahigh power density of 27 000 W kg−1, an impressive energy density of 65 Wh kg−1 can be achieved, which rivals previously reported energy‐storage devices.
Spray Pyrolysis Regulated FeCo Alloy Anchoring on Nitrogen–Doped Carbon Hollow Spheres Boost the Performance of Zinc–Air Batteries
Authors: Huang Hongrui , Liang Qianqian , Guo Huajun , Wang Zhixing , Yan Guochun , Wu Feixiang , Wang Jiexi
Published: January 2024

Low‐cost and high‐efficiency non‐precious metal‐based oxygen reduction reaction (ORR)/oxygen evolution reaction (OER) bifunctional catalysts are the key to promoting the commercial application of metal–air batteries. Herein, a highly efficient catalyst of Fe0.18Co0.82 alloy anchoring on the nitrogen‐doped porous carbon hollow sphere (FexCo1‐x/N‐C) is intelligently designed by spray pyrolysis (SP). The zinc in the SP‐derived metal oxides and metal‐organic framework volatilize at high temperature to construct a hierarchical porous structure with abundant defects and fully exposes the FeCo nanoparticles which uniformly anchor on the carbon substrate. In this structure, the coexistence of Fe0.18Co0.82 alloy and binary metal active sites (Fe‐Nx/Co‐Nx) guarantees the Fe0.2Co0.8/N‐C catalyst exhibiting an excellent half‐wave potential (E1/2 ═ 0.84 V) superior to 20% Pt/C for ORR and a suppressed overpotential (280 mV) than RuO2 for OER. Assembled rechargeable Zn–air battery (RZAB) demonstrates a promising specific capacity of 807.02 mAh g−1, peak power density of 159.08 mW cm−2 and durability without electrolyte circulation (550 h). This work proposes the design concept of utilizing an oxide core to in situ consume the porous carbon shell for anchoring metal active sites and construct defects, which benefits from spray pyrolysis in achieving precise control of the alloy structure and mass preparation.
LiOH Decomposition by NiO/ZrO2 in Li‐Air Battery: Chemical Imaging with Operando Synchrotron Diffraction and Correlative Neutron/X‐Ray Computed‐Tomography Analysis
Authors: Anchieta Chayene Gonçalves , Francisco Bruno A.B. , Júlio Julia P. O. , Trtik Pavel , Bonnin Anne , Doubek Gustavo , Sanchez Dario Ferreira
Published: January 2024

Li‐air batteries attract significant attention due to their highest theoretical energy density among all existing energy storage technologies. Currently, challenges related to extending lifetime and long‐term stability limit their practical application. To overcome these issues and enhance the total capacity of Li‐air batteries, this study introduces an innovative approach with NiO/ZrO2 catalysts. Operando advanced chemical imaging with micrometer spatial resolution unveils that NiO/ZrO2 catalysts substantially change the kinetics of crystalline lithium hydroxide (LiOH) formation and facilitate its rapid decomposition with heterogeneous distribution. Moreover, ex situ combined neutron and X‐ray computed tomography (CT) analysis, provide evidence of distinct lithium phases homogeneously distributed in the presence of NiO/ZrO2. These findings underscore the material's superior physico‐chemical and electronic properties, with more efficient oxygen diffusion and indications of lower obstruction to its active sites, avoiding clogging in the active electrode, a common cause of capacity loss. Electrochemical tests conducted at high current density demonstrated a significant kinetic enhancement of the oxygen reduction and evolution reactions, resulting in improved charge and discharge processes with low overpotential. This pioneering approach using NiO/ZrO2 catalysts represents a step toward on developing the full potential of Li‐air batteries as high‐energy‐density energy storage systems.
What are delusions? Examining the typology problem
Authors: López‐Silva Pablo , de Prado‐Gordillo Miguel Núñez , Fernández‐Castro Victor
Published: January 2024

Delusions are a heterogenous transdiagnostic phenomenon with a higher prevalence in schizophrenia. One of the most fundamental debates surrounding the philosophical understanding of delusions concerns the question about the type of mental state in which reports that we label as delusional are grounded, namely, the typology problem. The formulation of potential answers for this problem seems to have important repercussions for experimental research in clinical psychiatry and the development of psychotherapeutic tools for the treatment of delusions in clinical psychology. Problematically, such alternatives are scattered in the literature, making it difficult to follow the current development and state of the target discussion. This paper offers an updated critical examination of the alternatives to the typology problem currently available in the literature. After clarifying the two main philosophical views underlying the dominant formulation of the debate (interpretivism and functionalism), we follow the usual distinction between doxastic (the idea that delusions are a type of belief) and anti‐doxastic views. We then introduce two new sub‐distinctions; on the doxastic camp, we distinguish between revisionist and non‐revisionist proposals; on the anti‐doxastic camp, we distinguish between commonsensical and non‐commonsensical anti‐doxasticisms. After analyzing the main claims of each view, we conclude with some of the most fundamental challenges that remain open within the discussion.

This article is categorized under:

Philosophy > Foundations of Cognitive Science

Philosophy > Consciousness

Philosophy > Psychological Capacities

Neuroscience > Cognition
TLQP-21 facilitates diabetic wound healing by inducing angiogenesis through alleviating high glucose-induced injuries on endothelial progenitor cells
Authors: Fang Yaqi , Zhu Yuexia , Zhang Minxia , Ying Hua , Xing Yubo
Published: January 2024

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a metabolic disease with multiple complications, including diabetic cutaneous wounds, which lacks effective treating strategies and severely influences the patients’ life. Endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs) are reported to participate in maintaining the normal function of blood vessels, which plays a critical role in diabetic wound healing. TLQP-21 is a VGF-derived peptide with promising therapeutic functions on DM. Herein, the protective effects of TLQP-21 on diabetic cutaneous wound and the underlying mechanism will be investigated. Cutaneous wound model was established in T2DM mice, followed by administering 120 nmol/kg and 240 nmol/kg TLQP-21 once a day for 12 days. Decreased wound closure, reduced number of capillaries and EPCs, declined tube formation function of EPCs, and inactivated PI3K/AKT/eNOS signaling in EPCs were observed in T2DM mice, which were sharply alleviated by TLQP-21. Normal EPCs were extracted from mice and stimulated by high glucose (HG), followed by incubated with TLQP-21 in the presence or absence of LY294002, an inhibitor of PI3K. The declined cell viability, increased apoptotic rate, reduced number of migrated cells, declined migration distance, repressed tube formation function, and inactivated PI3K/AKT/eNOS signaling observed in HG-treated EPCs were markedly reversed by TLQP-21, which were dramatically abolished by the co-culture of LY294002. Collectively, TLQP-21 facilitated diabetic wound healing by inducing angiogenesis through alleviating HG-induced injuries on EPCs.
Distinct alterations of gut microbiota between viral- and non-viral-related hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Jinato Thananya , Anuntakarun Songtham , Satthawiwat Nantawat , Chuaypen Natthaya , Tangkijvanich Pisit
Published: January 2024

Altered gut microbiota has been connected to hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) occurrence and advancement. This study was conducted to identify a gut microbiota signature in differentiating between viral-related HCC (Viral-HCC) and non-hepatitis B-, non-hepatitis C-related HCC (NBNC-HCC). Fecal specimens were obtained from 16 healthy controls, 33 patients with viral-HCC (17 and 16 cases with hepatitis B virus (HBV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection, respectively), and 18 patients with NBNC-HCC. Compositions of fecal microbiota were assessed by 16S rRNA sequencing. Bioinformatic analysis was performed by the DADA2 pipeline in the R program. Significantly different genera from the top 50 relative abundance were used to classify between subgroups of HCC by the Random Forest algorithm. Our data demonstrated that the HCC group had a significantly decreased alpha-diversity and changed microbial composition in comparison with healthy controls. Within the top 50 relative abundance, there were 11 genera including Faecalibacterium, Agathobacter, and Coprococcus that were significantly enhanced in Viral-HCC, while 5 genera such as Bacteroides, Streptococcus, Ruminococcus gnavus group, Parabacteroides, and Erysipelatoclostridium were enhanced in NBNC-HCC. Compared to Viral-HCC, the NBNC-HCC subgroup significantly reduced various short-chain fatty acid-producing bacteria, as well as declined fecal butyrate but elevated plasma surrogate markers of microbial translocation. Based on the machine learning algorithm, a high diagnostic accuracy to classify HCC subgroups was achieved with an area under the receiver-operating characteristic (ROC) curve (AUC) of 0.94. Collectively, these data revealed that gut dysbiosis was distinct according to etiological factors of HCC, which might play an essential role in hepatocarcinogenesis. These findings underscore the possible use of a gut microbiota signature for the diagnosis and therapeutic approaches regarding different subgroups of HCC.

Key points

• Gut dysbiosis is connected to hepatocarcinogenesis and can be used as a novel biomarker.

• Gut microbiota composition is significantly altered in different etiological factors of HCC.

• Microbiota-based signature can accurately distinguish between Viral-HCC and NBNC-HCC.
Deducing photosymbiosis in extinct heliolitid corals
Authors: Król J. J. , Berkowski B. , Denayer J. , Zapalski M. K.
Published: January 2024

The matter of photosymbiosis in Paleozoic corals remains unresolved as it is not possible to directly check for the presence of algal symbionts in fossil corals. However, present-day photosymbiotic corals are characterised by a number of features that can be evaluated in fossil corals as well, such as large, highly integrated colonies, growth banding, and platy growth forms in mesophotic conditions. The present study aims to evaluate these features in heliolitid corals. Heliolitids were relatively highly integrated, compared to other Paleozoic corals and could produce large colonies, over 1 m in diameter. In this study, heliolitid corals from different outcrops from the Silurian (~ 444 to 419 ma) of Gotland (Sweden) were analysed, and additional Devonian (~ 419 to 359 ma) specimens from Belgium, Poland and Morocco, featuring cyclic growth banding, were also included. Overall, over 60% of studied specimens from Lower Visby Formation in Ireviken and over 80% from Eke Formation in Lau Käldu are platy or tabular. Those outcrops represent environments that were mesophotic. Specimens from the shallower Upper Visby Formation in Ygne are dominated by branching forms instead. The apparent light-related skeletal plasticity, high colony integration, growth banding, and the absence of heliolitids in deep water environments implies that some of these corals were most likely photosymbiotic.
CSF p-tau205: a biomarker of tau pathology in Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Lantero-Rodriguez Juan , Montoliu-Gaya Laia , Benedet Andrea L. , Vrillon Agathe , Dumurgier Julien , Cognat Emmanuel , Brum Wagner S. , Rahmouni Nesrine , Stevenson Jenna , Servaes Stijn , Therriault Joseph , Becker Bruno , Brinkmalm Gunnar , Snellman Anniina , Huber Hanna , Kvartsberg Hlin , Ashton Nicholas J. , Zetterberg Henrik , Paquet Claire , Rosa-Neto Pedro , Blennow Kaj
Published: January 2024

Post-mortem staging of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) neurofibrillary pathology is commonly performed by immunohistochemistry using AT8 antibody for phosphorylated tau (p-tau) at positions 202/205. Thus, quantification of p-tau205 and p-tau202 in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) should be more reflective of neurofibrillary tangles in AD than other p-tau epitopes. We developed two novel Simoa immunoassays for CSF p-tau205 and p-tau202 and measured these phosphorylations in three independent cohorts encompassing the AD continuum, non-AD cases and cognitively unimpaired participants: a discovery cohort (n = 47), an unselected clinical cohort (n = 212) and a research cohort well-characterized by fluid and imaging biomarkers (n = 262). CSF p-tau205 increased progressively across the AD continuum, while CSF p-tau202 was increased only in AD and amyloid (Aβ) and tau pathology positive (A+T+) cases (P < 0.01). In A+ cases, CSF p-tau205 and p-tau202 showed stronger associations with tau-PET (rSp205 = 0.67, rSp202 = 0.45) than Aβ-PET (rSp205 = 0.40, rSp202 = 0.09). CSF p-tau205 increased gradually across tau-PET Braak stages (P < 0.01), whereas p-tau202 only increased in Braak V–VI (P < 0.0001). Both showed stronger regional associations with tau-PET than with Aβ-PET, and CSF p-tau205 was significantly associated with Braak V–VI tau-PET regions. When assessing the contribution of Aβ and tau pathologies (indexed by PET) to CSF p-tau205 and p-tau202 variance, tau pathology was found to be the most prominent contributor in both cases (CSF p-tau205: R2 = 69.7%; CSF p-tau202: R2 = 85.6%) Both biomarkers associated with brain atrophy measurements globally (rSp205 = − 0.36, rSp202 = − 0.33) and regionally, and correlated with cognition (rSp205 = − 0.38/− 0.40, rSp202 = − 0.20/− 0.29). In conclusion, we report the first high-throughput CSF p-tau205 immunoassay for the in vivo quantification of tau pathology in AD, and a potentially cost-effective alternative to tau-PET in clinical settings and clinical trials.
Improved prognostic stratification of patients with isocitrate dehydrogenase-mutant astrocytoma
Authors: Weller Michael , Felsberg Jörg , Hentschel Bettina , Gramatzki Dorothee , Kubon Nadezhda , Wolter Marietta , Reusche Matthias , Roth Patrick , Krex Dietmar , Herrlinger Ulrich , Westphal Manfred , Tonn Joerg C. , Regli Luca , Maurage Claude-Alain , von Deimling Andreas , Pietsch Torsten , Le Rhun Emilie , Reifenberger Guido
Published: January 2024

Prognostic factors and standards of care for astrocytoma, isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH)-mutant, CNS WHO grade 4, remain poorly defined. Here we sought to explore disease characteristics, prognostic markers, and outcome in patients with this newly defined tumor type. We determined molecular biomarkers and assembled clinical and outcome data in patients with IDH-mutant astrocytomas confirmed by central pathology review. Patients were identified in the German Glioma Network cohort study; additional cohorts of patients with CNS WHO grade 4 tumors were identified retrospectively at two sites. In total, 258 patients with IDH-mutant astrocytomas (114 CNS WHO grade 2, 73 CNS WHO grade 3, 71 CNS WHO grade 4) were studied. The median age at diagnosis was similar for all grades. Karnofsky performance status at diagnosis inversely correlated with CNS WHO grade (p < 0.001). Despite more intensive treatment upfront with higher grade, CNS WHO grade was strongly prognostic: median overall survival was not reached for grade 2 (median follow-up 10.4 years), 8.1 years (95% CI 5.4–10.8) for grade 3, and 4.7 years (95% CI 3.4–6.0) for grade 4. Among patients with CNS WHO grade 4 astrocytoma, median overall survival was 5.5 years (95% CI 4.3–6.7) without (n = 58) versus 1.8 years (95% CI 0–4.1) with (n = 12) homozygous CDKN2A deletion. Lower levels of global DNA methylation as detected by LINE-1 methylation analysis were strongly associated with CNS WHO grade 4 (p < 0.001) and poor outcome. MGMT promoter methylation status was not prognostic for overall survival. Histomolecular stratification based on CNS WHO grade, LINE-1 methylation level, and CDKN2A status revealed four subgroups of patients with significantly different outcomes. In conclusion, CNS WHO grade, global DNA methylation status, and CDKN2A homozygous deletion are prognostic in patients with IDH-mutant astrocytoma. Combination of these parameters allows for improved prediction of outcome. These data aid in designing upcoming trials using IDH inhibitors.
Predictors in the treatment of malignant central airway obstruction with silicone stents
Authors: Bøgh Mads , Gade Søren , Larsen Dalia Gustaityté , Schytte Sten , Pedersen Ulrik , Kjærgaard Thomas
Published: January 2024

Purpose

To examine the role of the silicone stent in palliation of malignant central airway obstruction and identify potential preprocedural predictors for postprocedural outcome.

Methods

Patients treated with endoscopic insertion of tracheobronchial silicone stents for malignant central airway obstruction at Aarhus University Hospital from 2012 to 2022 were identified from electronic medical records. Statistical analyses were carried out to identify factors affecting Days Alive and Out of Hospital, complications and overall survival.

Results

81 patients underwent a total of 90 tracheobronchial stent insertions. Days Alive and Out of Hospital (DAOH) for the first 30 days were affected negatively by urgent intervention, p < 0.001, preprocedural non-invasive respiratory support, p < 0.001, and preprocedural intubation, p = 0.02. Post-procedural oncological treatment was associated with a significant improved DAOH, p = 0.04. Symptomatology and lesion characteristics were not significantly associated with any impact on DAOH. Overall survival was poor (mean survival was 158 days), and only significantly affected by severe degree of dyspnea, p = 0.02, and postprocedural oncological treatment, p < 0.001. Complication where registered in 25.6% of cases within the first 30 days was observed. Procedure-related mortality was 3.7%. Based on chart annotations by an ENT-surgeon, 95% of the patients experienced relief of symptoms following stent insertion.

Conclusions

Palliative tracheobronchial airway stenting with silicone stents is found to have a beneficial impact, more research is required for identification of predictors for postprocedural outcome based on preprocedural classifications.
How personality functioning relates to psychological distress and behavioral attitudes during the Covid-19 pandemic
Authors: Kampe Leonie , Hörz-Sagstetter Susanne , Bohn Johannes , Remmers Carina
Published: January 2024

Functional aspects of personality are crucial for experiencing and handling emotional distress. With the outbreak of the Covid-19 virus and the subsequent installation of mitigation rules of social distancing, severe psycho-social challenges were posed upon people. Research has shown that individuals react differently to these challenges. This study aimed to investigate the role of dimensional aspects of personality during the Covid-19 pandemic. Specifically, we examined how personality functioning, defense mechanisms, and narcissism were related to psychological distress and cognitive and behavioral attitudes towards the rules of social distancing. In a non-clinical sample (N = 254), Level of Personality Functioning Scale, Inventory of Personality Organization, Defense Style Questionnaire, Pathological Narcissism Inventory, and three single questions regarding emotional distress and behavioral attitudes towards the pandemic were used. Structural equation models with reference and residual factors were calculated. Impairments in personality functioning and vulnerable narcissism showed significant positive relationships, adaptive defense mechanisms significant negative relationships with psychological distress during the pandemic. Residual factors for aggression and low moral values showed distinct negative relationships with psychological distress related to social distancing. Among individuals who chose to ignore the rules of social distancing, greater impairment in personality organization was found. Personality functioning may elucidate individual differences in psychological distress and compliance with the mitigation rules during the pandemic. Limitations of measures are carefully considered in all interpretations.
Phylogeny and ultrastructure of Elthusa raynaudii (Isopoda, Cymothoidae) firstly recorded from the invasive silver cheeked toadfish (Lagocephalus sceleratus) (Gmelin 1789) in eastern Mediterranean Sea coast
Authors: Mahmoud Nisreen E. , Fahmy Magdy M. , Khattab Marwa S. , Abuowarda Mai
Published: January 2024

With the opening of the Suez Canal in 1869, many changes have occurred in the Mediterranean Sea ecosystem so became a home to many invasive Lessepsian marine species that have migrated from the Red Sea. About 500 marine species including pufferfish have immigrated and rapidly established a population in the Mediterranean Sea causing significant impact on its ecosystem and fisheries sector. The parasitic fauna of these pufferfish has scarcely been studied in the Mediterranean Sea and also in their native habitat. During this surveillance study on the invasive pufferfish species from the Egyptian Mediterranean coast, the female cymothoid isopod Elthusa raynaudii was detected from the branchial cavity and also in the buccal cavity of 23.9% of the examined Lagocephalus sceleratus. The isolated isopod species was firstly identified and described through electron microscopy and molecular phylogeny based on the sequences of mitochondrial 16S rRNA gene. Additionally, the description of eggs, embryonic stage, and manca of E. raynaudii was firstly provided. The pathological impact on the infested fish tissues was investigated and revealed curling and loss of secondary gill lamellae in addition to mucous exudates in between the gill filaments and granuloma formation in the gill arch. The study provided the first report of L. sceleratus as a new host for the isopod E. raynaudii collected from the Egyptian Mediterranean coast as a new locality record. The role of the Lessepsian invasive pufferfish in transmitting parasites to the native fish species was discussed.

Graphical Abstract
The influence of alteration and fractures on gas permeability and mechanical properties of the sedimentary and volcanic rocks of the Acoculco Caldera Complex (México)
Authors: Ramírez-Guzmán Ángel , Pola Antonio , Macias José Luis , Soto-Herrera Andrés Mauricio , Avellán Denis Ramón , Pacheco-Valdovinos Pedro Martín , Martínez-Martínez Javier
Published: January 2024

Petrophysical and mechanical properties of limestones and volcanic altered and unaltered rocks were estimated by a series of laboratory measurements. The aim of this work was to study the changes in matrix permeability and the influence of an induced vertical fracture. The phenomenon was studied by direct comparison of different properties (porosity, UCS, permeability) and by a multiple linear regression analysis. Porosity, UCS, and matrix permeability of limestones and non-altered volcanic rocks showed homogeneous values. However, the permeability increased from poor to moderate after fracture induction (10–17 to 10–14 m2). Altered volcanic specimens showed a more complex pore system. Thus, considerable variations in all measured properties were identified. For example, porosity ranged from 6 to 50% and Permeability ranged from 10–14 to 10–12 m2. Comparison plots including UCS, porosity, and matrix permeability showed a good fitting (R2=0.75). Multiple linear regression analysis in fractured specimens has a moderate R2 (0.55) The model that better explains the permeability evolution of fractured specimens has the fracture permeability as the response variable and the porosity values as independent variables. The usage and repeatability of these equations in other zones should include more singularities of every single specimen as pore size, pore distribution, and fractures.
Study delay during emergency remote teaching among students at Dutch universities: the role of students’ education satisfaction and academic wellbeing
Authors: Vollmann Manja , Scheepers Renée A. , Hilverda Femke
Published: January 2024

This study investigated whether the amount of emergency remote teaching (ERT) was negatively associated with students’ academic performance in terms of study delay and explored whether this association was mediated by study-related experiences, i.e. students’ education satisfaction and subsequently academic wellbeing (academic burnout and academic engagement). The study was conducted during the academic year 2020/2021 and 680 students from all conventional Dutch universities participated. The amount of ERT and study-related experiences were measured at three time points throughout the academic year and the respective scores were averaged for data analysis. Study delay was assessed at the end of the academic year (last time point). The hypothesised model was tested using path analysis. A higher amount of ERT was associated with a higher risk of study delay and this association was mediated by study-related experiences in two ways. First, a higher amount of ERT was related to lower education satisfaction, which in turn increased the risk of study delay. Second, a higher amount of ERT was related to lower education satisfaction, which in turn was associated with lower academic wellbeing, i.e. more academic burnout and less academic engagement, which in turn increased the risk of study delay. The findings suggest that education satisfaction and academic wellbeing are mechanisms underlying the detrimental effect of ERT on study performance, with education satisfaction playing a central role. To avoid students incurring study delay, universities are advised to implement ERT and online education in general in such a way that students’ education satisfaction gets preserved.
Rapid recovery of invasive wild pig (Sus scrofa) populations following density reduction
Authors: Garabedian James E. , Kilgo John C.
Published: January 2024

Trapping is an effective strategy for control of invasive wild pig (Sus scrofa), but eradication of populations via trapping alone typically is impractical throughout much of the species’ introduced range. Consequently, recovery of wild pig populations to pre-trapping levels following control is a major impediment to success of long-term control. In this study, we conducted camera-trap surveys to monitor recovery of two wild pig populations immediately following density reductions achieved via trapping on two sites on the Savannah River Site, SC. We used spatial capture-recapture models to estimate wild pig density during seven 3 week periods spanning 12 months to: (1) determine the time required for populations to recover to pre-trapping levels; and (2) evaluate trends in population growth, density, and distribution during recovery. Recovery of both wild pig populations started immediately after trapping ceased, with populations reaching pre-trapping levels in 3 and 5 months. Threeweek population growth rates for each wild pig population during recovery averaged 1.28 (range = 1.11–1.39 on site 1) and 1.24 (range = 0.64–1.92 on site 2), which corresponded to a 345% and 132% increase in abundance (an increase of 141 and 126 individual wild pigs on site 1 and 2, respectively) of each population by the last survey period. Rapid recovery and growth beyond pre-trapping levels of wild pig populations likely were driven by residual wild pigs not removed by trapping and compensatory reproduction and immigration. Our study is one of the first to provide information on how quickly wild pig populations can recover following overall density reductions of 54–68% and indicates practitioners should be prepared to reinitiate trapping efforts in as little as 3 months to prevent recovery of wild pig populations following control.
Testimony of Oppression and the Limits of Empathy
Authors: Sodoma Katharina Anna
Published: January 2024

Testimony of oppression is testimony that something constitutes or contributes to a form of oppression, such as, for example, “The stranger’s comment was sexist.” Testimony of oppression that is given by members of the relevant oppressed group has the potential to play an important role in fostering a shared understanding of oppression. Yet, it is frequently dismissed out of hand. Against the background of a recent debate on moral testimony, this paper discusses the following question: How should privileged hearers approach testimony of oppression if they aim to do so in an ethically and epistemically sound way? Should they defer or try to understand? Both strategies constitute ways of learning from testimony of oppression. However, they differ in important respects and exclude each other. Because testimony of oppression is often based on personal experience, empathizing with the speaker can play an important role in trying to understand testimony of oppression. While the fact that empathy can change your mind and the advantages of understanding over knowledge support trying to understand as the right approach to testimony of oppression, considerations of the “limits of empathy” and the value of deference support deferring. I argue that, on balance, these contrasting arguments allow for a limited defense of the role of empathy in learning from testimony of oppression. We should try to understand testimony of oppression by empathizing with the speaker, but not treat our ability to understand as a condition on accepting a speaker’s claim.
Bread making quality parameters of some Ukrainian and Polish triticale cultivars
Authors: Kaszuba Joanna , Woś Henryk , Shchipak Gienadii V.
Published: January 2024

Grain, flour and bread quality parameters were investigated in one Polish and three Ukrainian triticale cultivars, selected as the most suitable for production of bread. The studies revealed large differences in some bread-making parameters. The farinographic parameters of the Ukrainian triticale cultivars were not worse than those of wheat, but the bread loaf volume was lower. The best triticale bread was obtained from the Polish cultivar Panteon, loaf volume and crumb porosity were the highest, in spite of weak results of the farinographic test. Reliability of parameters used for prediction of wheat bread quality in application to triticale is discussed. The laboratory baking is recommended for bakers, breeders and for cultivar testing as the safest method of the evaluation.
Unravelling the Electrical Conductivity of Earth and Planets
Authors: Grayver Alexander
Published: January 2024

This review presents the progress made in the last decade in the field of large-scale electromagnetic (EM) induction with natural sources, which fluctuate at periods from seconds to years and originate in oceans, ionosphere and magnetosphere. These mechanisms produce field variations that can be used to image subsurface electrical structure of Earth and planets across scales and depths from the shallow crust to the lower mantle. In the last decade, we have seen a substantial progress made in different areas related to methods, observations and 3-D numerical modelling of EM phenomena at crustal and mantle scales. Specifically, new methods for handling complex ionospheric and magnetospheric sources were proposed, accompanied by more efficient forward and inverse modelling tools that allowed us to combine several broadband sources and constrain electrical conductivity on multiple scales simultaneously. Magnetic signals due to oceanic tides were established as a new source to probe conductivity of the sub-oceanic upper mantle. Further, the launch of ESA Swarm satellites in 2013 and their successful ongoing operation have marked a new era in the field of large-scale EM induction, unlocking a set of new opportunities, but also posing new challenges. These developments were backed by new lab measurements of electrical conductivity for mantle minerals at temperatures and pressures that are getting closer to the relevant pressure and temperature conditions in the mantle, alleviating the need for inaccurate extrapolations. The latter enabled more plausible quantitative estimates of water content, melt fractions and temperature in the mantle. In parallel, crust and mantle conductivity models along with developed modelling techniques have become an integral part of geomagnetic field and geomagnetically induced currents (GICs) modelling workflows, establishing new inter-disciplinary knowledge domains.
Optimizing non-invasive preimplantation genetic testing: investigating culture conditions, sample collection, and IVF treatment for improved non-invasive PGT-A results
Authors: Chow Judy F. C. , Lam Kevin K. W. , Cheng Heidi H. Y. , Lai Shui Fan , Yeung William S. B. , Ng Ernest H. Y.
Published: January 2024

Purpose

This study aimed to optimize the non-invasive preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy (niPGT-A) in the laboratory by comparing two collection timing of the spent culture medium (SCM), two embryo rinsing protocols, and the use of conventional insemination instead of intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI).

Methods

Results of two embryo rinsing methods (one-step vs sequential) and SCM collected on day 5 vs day 6 after retrieval were compared against trophectoderm (TE) biopsies as reference. Results from day 6 SCM in cycles fertilized by conventional insemination were compared with PGT-A using ICSI.

Results

The rate of concordance was higher in day 6 samples than in day 5 samples when the sequential method was used, in terms of total concordance (TC; day 6 vs day 5: 85.0% vs 60.0%, p = 0.0228), total concordance with same sex (TCS, 82.5% vs 28,0%, p < 0.0001), and full concordance with same sex (FCS, 62.5% vs 24.0%, p = 0.0025). The sequential method significantly out-performed the one-step method when SCM were collected on day 6 (sequential vs one-step, TC: 85.0% vs 64.5%, p = 0.0449; TCS: 82.5% vs 54.8%, p = 0.0113; FCS: 62.5% vs 25.8%, p = 0.0021). There was no significant difference in niPGT-A results between cycles fertilized by the conventional insemination and ICSI.

Conclusion

We have shown a higher concordance rate when SCM was collected on day 6 and the embryos were rinsed in a sequential manner. Comparable results of niPGT-A when oocytes were fertilized by conventional insemination or ICSI. These optimization steps are important prior to commencement of a randomized trial in niPGT-A.
Shikonin improves the effectiveness of PD-1 blockade in colorectal cancer by enhancing immunogenicity via Hsp70 upregulation
Authors: Chen Jinghua , Liu Jie , Liu Xiaolin , Wang Jun , Wang Xiumei , Ye Xin , Xie Qi , Liang Jing , Li Yan
Published: January 2024

Background

PD-1 blockade has shown impressive clinical outcomes in colorectal cancers patients with high microsatellite instability (MSI-H). However, the majority of patients with colorectal cancer who present low microsatellite instability (MSI-L) or stable microsatellites (MSS) show little response to PD-1 blockade therapy. Here, we have demonstrated that Shikonin (SK) could induce cell death of CT26 cells via classically programmed and immunogenic pathways.

Methods and results

SK promoted the membrane exposure of calreticulin and upregulated the expression of heat shock protein 70 (Hsp70). The upregulation of Hsp70 was dependent on ROS induced by SK and silencing of PKM2 in CT26 cells reverts ROS upregulation. Besides, SK synergizes with PD-1 blockade in CT26 tumor mice model, with the increase of intramural DC cells and CD8+ T cells. The expression of Hsp70 in tumor tissue was also increased in combinational SK plus αPD-1 therapy group.

Conclusions

Our study elucidated the potential role of ‘Shikonin-PKM2-ROS-Hsp70’ axis in the promotion of efficacy of PD-1 blockade in CRC treatments, providing a potential strategy and targets for improving the efficacy of PD-1 blockade in colorectal cancer.
Shank3 Deficiency Results in a Reduction in GABAergic Postsynaptic Puncta in the Olfactory Brain Areas
Authors: Mihalj Denisa , Borbelyova Veronika , Pirnik Zdeno , Bacova Zuzana , Ostatnikova Daniela , Bakos Jan
Published: January 2024

Dysfunctional sensory systems, including altered olfactory function, have recently been reported in patients with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Disturbances in olfactory processing can potentially result from gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)ergic synaptic abnormalities. The specific molecular mechanism by which GABAergic transmission affects the olfactory system in ASD remains unclear. Therefore, the present study aimed to evaluate selected components of the GABAergic system in olfactory brain regions and primary olfactory neurons isolated from Shank3-deficient (−/−) mice, which are known for their autism-like behavioral phenotype. Shank3 deficiency led to a significant reduction in GEPHYRIN/GABAAR colocalization in the piriform cortex and in primary neurons isolated from the olfactory bulb, while no change of cell morphology was observed. Gene expression analysis revealed a significant reduction in the mRNA levels of GABA transporter 1 in the olfactory bulb and Collybistin in the frontal cortex of the Shank3−/− mice compared to WT mice. A similar trend of reduction was observed in the expression of Somatostatin in the frontal cortex of Shank3−/− mice. The analysis of the expression of other GABAergic neurotransmission markers did not yield statistically significant results. Overall, it appears that Shank3 deficiency leads to changes in GABAergic synapses in the brain regions that are important for olfactory information processing, which may represent basis for understanding functional impairments in autism.