bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Emerging trends in antipsychotic and antidepressant drug development: Targeting nonmonoamine receptors and innovative mechanisms
Authors: Osaka Hitoshi , Kanazawa Tetsufumi
Published: November 2023

The domain of psychiatric drug development is currently witnessing a notable transformation, with a paramount emphasis on targeting nonmonoamine receptors and exploring inventive mechanisms of action. This paper presents an overview of the ongoing advancements in antipsychotic and antidepressant drug development. Historically, antipsychotics predominantly targeted dopamine receptors, but there is now an escalating interest in drugs that act on alternative receptors, exemplified by the TAAR1 receptor. One noteworthy candidate is Ulotaront (SEP‐363856), an agent acting as a TAAR1 agonist with 5‐HT1A agonist activity, demonstrating promising outcomes in the treatment of schizophrenia, devoid of extrapyramidal symptoms or metabolic side‐effects. Similarly, MIN‐101 (Roluperidone) and KarXT are currently in development, with its focus on addressing the symptoms in schizophrenia. In the domain of antidepressants, novel therapeutic approaches have surfaced, such as Auvelity, a Food and Drug Administration (FDA)‐approved NMDA receptor antagonist synergistically combined with Bupropion to enhance its effects. Another notable candidate is Zuranolone, operating as a GABA A receptor‐positive allosteric modulator, showcasing efficacy in treating major depressive disorder (MDD) and postpartum depression. Additionally, TAK‐653 (NBI‐1065845) and MJI821 (Onfasprodil) have emerged as potential antidepressants targeting AMPA receptors and NMDA receptor 2B (NR2B) negative allosteric modulation, respectively. This paper underscores the transformative potential of these novel drug candidates in psychiatric treatment and their ability to address cases that were previously treatment‐resistant. By focusing on nonmonoamine receptors and introducing innovative mechanisms, these drugs offer a promising prospect of improved outcomes for individuals suffering from schizophrenia and MDD. Thus, sustained attention and dedication to the development of such drugs are essential to augmenting the therapeutic options available for psychiatric patients.
Comparative gene expression analysis of differentiated terminal and lateral haustoria of the obligate root parasitic plant Phelipanche ramosa (Orobanchaceae)
Authors: Brun Guillaume , Leman Julia K. H. , Wicke Susann
Published: November 2023

Societal Impact Statements

The parasitic weed Phelipanche ramosa thrives on a broad spectrum of cash crops over the Northern Hemisphere. Unfortunately, current management practices are inefficient in controlling its devastating impacts and spread. Here, valuable insights are provided on an understudied aspect of its biology, the formation of a feeding organ network on the rudimentary roots of the parasite tubercle, which will help refine our general knowledge of how parasitic plants develop on their hosts. This research sets the path for a thorough understanding of the biology of parasitic plants, which in the long run will help design integrated control methods.
Aging seeds of weedy broomrapes and witchweeds lose sensitivity to strigolactones as DNA demethylates
Authors: Brun Guillaume , Pöhl Jonathan , Wicke Susann
Published: November 2023

Societal Impact Statement

Broomrapes and witchweeds have devastating effects on crops in parts of Europe, Africa, and Asia. The key to their success is the production of copious, long‐lived seeds, which germinate in response to the perception of chemicals released by their hosts' roots. Here, it is proposed that the success of a parasite population will decrease as its seed bank ages due to the gradual decrease in sensitivity to the host signals in correlation with alterations of the seeds' epigenetic landscape, which is the set of non‐hard‐coded genetic information that influences gene function. This research provides important information toward a better understanding of parasite seed bank dynamics, which must be accounted for in future control strategies.

Broomrapes (Phelipanche and Orobanche spp.) and witchweeds (Striga and Alectra spp.) are obligate root parasitic weeds responsible for major crop yield losses worldwide. Their success in agricultural landscapes is attributable to their ability to produce thousands of long‐lived minute seeds that coordinate their germination with the presence of nearby hosts by perceiving host‐derived strigolactones. The processes underlying the alleged decade(s)‐long persistence in the field are understudied.

Here, we used an accelerated seed aging method coupled with germination bioassays and an enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), which allowed studying seed aging in Orobanchaceae in a comparative manner.

We show that the losses of seed viability and germinability associated with seed aging are accompanied by a decrease in both strigolactone sensitivity and global DNA methylation. Our results also suggest that seeds of broomrapes are longer‐lived than those of witchweeds.

Overall, this emphasizes the need for further research into how epigenetic mechanisms contribute to alterations in seed viability in parasitic weeds and how seed aging influences seed responses to their environment.
Trends in solo living among young adults in Canada
Authors: Choi Kate H. , Ramaj Sagi
Published: November 2023

Solo living among young adults has increased in recent decades. Past studies seldom examined the impact of geographic contexts on trends in solo living. We compared trends in solo living across Canadian communities along the rural/urban continuum and identified factors contributing to these trends. The percentage of Canadian young adults living alone increased between 1981 and 2021. The increase was larger in rural and small urban areas than in medium and large urban areas. Irrespective of community type, the decline in marriage rates was the most salient factor contributing to this trend. Rising shelter costs suppressed increases in the percentage of young adults living alone, but only in medium and large urban areas. These findings highlight the need to increase the supply of affordable housing earmarked for young adults in medium and large urban areas.
The Effect of Nanopipes and an Inserted n‐AlGaN Interlayer on GaN Avalanche Photodiodes Performance
Authors: Sun Zhaolan , Yang Jing , Zhao Degang , Liu Bing , Yang Qian , Liu Zongshun , Duan Lihong , Liang Feng , Zheng Fu , Liu Xuefeng
Published: November 2023

The effect of nanopipe defects on the device performance of Gallium nitride (GaN) avalanche photodiodes (APDs) is investigated and the influence mechanism is analyzed. It is discovered that nanopipes can incorporate more carbon impurities, resulting in the introduction of more deep energy level defects into the epitaxial layers. This causes an increase in device leakage and challenges in distinguishing between light current and dark current. It is found that an inserted n‐AlGaN interlayer can effectively block nanopipes and improve device performance significantly.
Laser‐Induced Periodic Surface Structures in Polymers with Tailored Laser Fields
Authors: de Nalda Rebeca , Corrales Maria Eugenia , Recio Pedro , Casasús Ignacio M. , Bañares Luis , Ezquerra Tiberio A. , Rebollar Esther
Published: November 2023

In this work, laser‐induced periodic surface structures (LIPSS) are generated on the surface of thin films of poly(trimethylene terephthalate) (PTT) fabricated by spin coating on silicon. Previous studies have shown the appearance of LIPSS in this type of materials with femtosecond laser pulses in the near‐infrared region of the spectrum, despite the extremely low absorption of the polymer. The present work consists of an exploration of the effect of adding complexity to the femtosecond laser fields employed for irradiation. Changes in the repetition rate of the pulse train, the pulse duration, and the pulse temporal chirp are explored, and conditions for optimum LIPSS formation are identified. The effects of these modifications on the polymer surface topography, assessed by atomic force microscopy, are described and discussed.
Asymmetrical Schottky Junction Built by Metal/Conducting Polymer Targeting Efficient Flexible Direct Current Tribovoltaic Generator
Authors: Wang Yusheng , Shao Beibei , Song Yuhang , Sun Baoquan
Published: November 2023

Direct current (DC) from mechanical energy built on the tribovoltaic effect is promising for the development of self‐powered flexible electronics. A semiconductor triboelectric generator is one of the optimized solutions for DC output. However, it remains underutilized because of its low output power and insufficient insight into the fundamental principles of charge generation and transport at dynamic interfaces. Herein, a flexible fabric‐based DC generator that relies on a metal–semiconducting polymer interface constructed by an asymmetric Schottky junction between a poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrenesulfonic acid) (PEDOT:PSS)‐coated fabric and an aluminum (Al) foil is reported. The dependence of the electrical output performance of the device on the doping carrier concentration using different types of PEDOT:PSS to modulate the Schottky barrier height, validating both the work function and conductivity of the triboelectric material, which plays a fundamental role in DC generation, is explored. A large work function difference is required to create a high built‐in electric field for efficient separation of electron–hole pairs. Decent conductivity also fulfills an integral role in the innate carrier‐transport capability. Accordingly, an open‐circuit voltage (Voc) of 800 mV, a short‐circuit current (Isc) of 80 μA, and a power density of 6.7 mW cm−2 are yielded simultaneously.
Input‐response space‐filling designs incorporating response uncertainty
Authors: Yang Xiankui , Lu Lu , Anderson‐Cook Christine M.
Published: November 2023

Traditionally space‐filling designs have focused on the characteristics of the design in the input space ensuring uniform spread throughout the region. Input‐response space‐filling designs considered scenarios when having good spread throughout the range or region of the responses is also of interest. This paper acknowledges that there is typically uncertainty associated with the values of the response(s) and hence proposes a method, Input‐Response Space‐Filling Designs with Uncertainty (IRSFwU), to incorporate this into the design construction. The Pareto front of designs offers alternatives that balance input and response space filling, while prioritizing input combinations with lower associated response uncertainty. These lower uncertainty choices improve the chances of observing the desired response values. We describe the new approach with an uncertainty‐adjusted distance to measure the response space filling, the Pareto aggregate point exchange algorithm to populate the set of promising designs, and illustrate the method with three examples of different input and response relationships and dimensions.
The Enhanced Photocatalytic Sterilization of a Metal–Organic‐Framework‐Based S‐Scheme Heterostructure of Ag2S@PB for Rapid Healing of Bacteria‐Infected Open Wounds
Authors: Yang Zhenxing , Chen Cuihong , Wang Chaofeng , Zheng Yufeng , Wu Shuilin , Zhang Yu , Liu Xiangmei
Published: November 2023

Developing new photocatalytic materials is one of the most promising strategies to address bacterial infection during wound healing without bacterial drug resistance, but their poor photocatalytic activity ultimately limits their therapeutic efficacy. In this work, a metal–organic framework‐based S‐scheme heterostructure (Ag2S@PB) is prepared to rapidly treat open wounds caused by bacterial infection, which effectively establishes and retains spatially isolated redox centers through an S‐scheme charge‐transfer pathway. Additionally, the formation of an interface electric field and covalent FeS bridge bonding in the heterogeneous interface endows the heterojunction with a much stronger charge separation and transfer capability than bare Ag2S, which significantly enhances the photocatalytic performance and stability, consequently generating more radical oxygen species. Meanwhile, the introduction of Prussian blue greatly improves the photothermal effect of the Ag2S@PB under 808 nm near‐infrared light. Therefore, under illumination for 20 min, the Ag2S@PB shows a desirable antibacterial efficiency of 99.92% against Staphylococcus aureus and 99.86% against Escherichia coli. The in vivo wound repair experiment shows that the Ag2S@PB has good tissue repair effects and can expedite wound healing. This work will provide insights for designing highly efficient photoresponsive materials to treat bacterial wound infections.
Controlling Lead Halide Residue in Perovskite Solar Cells: A Method to Improve the Photostability and Hysteresis
Authors: Kalasariya Nikhil , Alexander Akhil , Bhunia Prithwish Kumar , Gutierrez-Partida Emilio , Benny Roshni , Stolterfoht Martin , Namboothiry Manoj A. G.
Published: November 2023

The presence of residual lead iodide phase in perovskite films, inherent to the two‐step spin‐coating method, has been reported to be beneficial for the performance of perovskite solar cells (PSCs); However, it may potentially undermine the photostability of PSCs. Herein, four distinct sets of perovskite films and devices are fabricated via the two‐step spin‐coating process, each under different processing conditions. All conditions demonstrate promising power conversion efficiency in PSCs. However, the aspect of photostability is found to be significantly influenced by unreacted PbI2 in the perovskite films. Varying degrees of residual PbI2 are detected among these films. Upon light exposure, it is observed that residual PbI2 within perovskites undergoes decomposition into metallic lead (Pb0) and mobile iodine, and these can affect the photovoltaic performance of the PSCs. The presence of mobile ions in metal–halide perovskites has generated substantial concern due to their impact on hysteresis within the J–V curve. Furthermore, the metallic lead (Pb0) containing perovskite films exhibits a prominent inverted hysteresis in the J–V curve
Radiogenomics uncovers an interplay between angiogenesis and clinical outcomes in bladder cancer
Authors: Xu Chentao , Cao Jincheng , Zhou Tianjin
Published: November 2023

Background

Precision medicine has become a promising clinical treatment strategy for various cancers, including bladder cancer, where angiogenesis plays a critical role in cancer progression. However, the relationship between angiogenesis, immune cell infiltration, clinical outcomes, chemotherapy, and targeted therapy remains unclear.

Methods

We conducted a comprehensive evaluation of angiogenesis‐related genes (ARGs) to identify their association with immune cell infiltration, transcription patterns, and clinical outcomes in bladder cancer. An ARG score was constructed to identify angiogenic subgroups in each sample and we evaluated their predictive performance for overall survival rate and treatment response. In addition, we optimized existing clinical detection protocols by performing image data processing.

Results

Our study revealed the genomic‐level mutant landscape and expression patterns of ARGs in bladder cancer specimens. Using analysis, we identified three molecular subgroups where ARG mutations correlated with patients' pathological features, clinical outcomes, and immune cell infiltration. To facilitate clinical applicability, we constructed a precise nomogram based on the ARG score, which significantly correlated with stem cell index and drug sensitivity. Finally, we proposed the radiogenomics model, which combines the precision of genomics with the convenience of radiomics.

Conclusion

Our study sheds light on the prognostic characteristics of ARGs in bladder cancer and provides insights into the tumor environment's characteristics to explore more effective immunotherapy strategies. The findings have significant implications for the development of personalized treatment approaches in bladder cancer and pave the way for future studies in this field.
Tanshinone IIA ameliorates cisplatin‐induced toxicology and cisplatin resistance via regulating SLC7A11 expression
Authors: Qin Hai , Yuan Yaqin , Yuan Manqin , Yi Siyi , Yang Yonghong , Zhang Yujie
Published: November 2023

Cisplatin, a potent chemotherapy agent, is highly effective against various cancers but is hindered by resistance and toxicities. This study aims to investigate the roles of SLC7A11, a cystine/glutamate transporter, in cisplatin resistance, and explored Tanshinone IIA as a therapeutic option. Cisplatin reduced SLC7A11 in renal cells, worsening toxicity. Cisplatin‐resistant gastric cancer cells show increased SLC7A11, driving resistance, while SLC7A11 knockdown curbed resistance. Tanshinone IIA showed promise in alleviating cisplatin toxicity by enhancing SLC7A11 expression and reducing associated adverse effects, while it effectively reversed cisplatin resistance in gastric cancer cells by suppressing SLC7A11. Additionally, Tanshinone IIA counteracted cisplatin resistance by inhibiting PIAS4‐mediated SUMOylation of SLC7A11. Simultaneously, overexpressing miR‐375, which has been shown to target SLC7A11, exacerbated cisplatin toxicity via SLC7A11 downregulation, which Tanshinone IIA attenuates. In summary, our study unveils complex SLC7A11 regulation in cisplatin resistance and toxicity. Tanshinone IIA emerges as a promising modulator of SLC7A11 through individual pathways, offering novel insights into overcoming cisplatin resistance and reducing toxicities in cancer therapy.
Deepfake detection using deep learning methods: A systematic and comprehensive review
Authors: Heidari Arash , Jafari Navimipour Nima , Dag Hasan , Unal Mehmet
Published: November 2023

Deep Learning (DL) has been effectively utilized in various complicated challenges in healthcare, industry, and academia for various purposes, including thyroid diagnosis, lung nodule recognition, computer vision, large data analytics, and human‐level control. Nevertheless, developments in digital technology have been used to produce software that poses a threat to democracy, national security, and confidentiality. Deepfake is one of those DL‐powered apps that has lately surfaced. So, deepfake systems can create fake images primarily by replacement of scenes or images, movies, and sounds that humans cannot tell apart from real ones. Various technologies have brought the capacity to change a synthetic speech, image, or video to our fingers. Furthermore, video and image frauds are now so convincing that it is hard to distinguish between false and authentic content with the naked eye. It might result in various issues and ranging from deceiving public opinion to using doctored evidence in a court. For such considerations, it is critical to have technologies that can assist us in discerning reality. This study gives a complete assessment of the literature on deepfake detection strategies using DL‐based algorithms. We categorize deepfake detection methods in this work based on their applications, which include video detection, image detection, audio detection, and hybrid multimedia detection. The objective of this paper is to give the reader a better knowledge of (1) how deepfakes are generated and identified, (2) the latest developments and breakthroughs in this realm, (3) weaknesses of existing security methods, and (4) areas requiring more investigation and consideration. The results suggest that the Conventional Neural Networks (CNN) methodology is the most often employed DL method in publications. According to research, the majority of the articles are on the subject of video deepfake detection. The majority of the articles focused on enhancing only one parameter, with the accuracy parameter receiving the most attention.

This article is categorized under:

Technologies > Machine Learning

Algorithmic Development > Multimedia

Application Areas > Science and Technology
The Korea Center for Investigative Journalism: A Hybrid Nonprofit Funding Model
Authors: Park Michelle , Konow-Lund Maria
Published: November 2023

In 2013, the world-shaking collaborative investigative-journalism project confronting tax avoidance known as the ‘Offshore Leaks’—orchestrated by the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists (ICIJ)—published its stories around the world. The investigation exposed the reality of international tax fraud and the related use of paper companies by high-profile figures. South Korea was among the nations which participated in this global collaboration, and its citizens were as astonished as the rest of the world by the scale of the investigations. Another surprise for the South Korean public was that the only South Korean partner in the ICIJ’s investigation was the just-established Korea Center for Investigative Journalism (KCIJ). The participation of such a young and relatively small newsroom stood out because most of the ICIJ’s partners around the world were considered to be ‘traditional media outlets’ (Carson, 2020, p. 101) or ‘traditional media organizations’ (Reese, 2021, p. 116). The KCIJ, however, had earned this opportunity for reasons to be elaborated upon later in this chapter.
Global Investigative Collaboration
Authors: Konow-Lund Maria , Bebawi Saba
Published: November 2023

In this chapter, we focus on how investigative cross-border collaboration has arisen and developed in the digital era by drawing upon our relatively unprecedented access to several news workers at the Forbidden Stories organisation in Paris during its formative phase. This collaborative network grew out of the desire of a professional journalists’ collective to defend their freedom of speech following the Charlie Hebdo terror attack in 2015. Forbidden Stories seeks to protect and redistribute investigative projects where the journalists who initiated them are either imprisoned or endangered and does this by organising transnational and investigative collaborations in Europe and, more recently, in a broader Global North and Global South context. We conducted our interviews with informants at the organisation, as well as some of its networks, in 2018 and 2019. We were especially interested in the hybrid aspects of these global collaborations with respect to technology, culture-specific modes of communication, and professional practices and standards. Rather than perpetuating the fraught divide and binaries between ‘mainstream and alternative, digital and non- or pre-digital journalism’ (Witschge et al., 2016, p. 2), we studied the ways in which they mixed and combined various methods that led to the common goal of holding power to account around the world.
Internal Domains Entrepreneurial Heartset, Mindset, and Handset
Authors: van der Westhuizen Thea
Published: November 2023

On the assumption that raising levels of self-confidence and value expectations for individuals, as definers of the microsystem, constitutes a fundamental starting point for extended development at higher systemic levels; value-centred development of individuals will, in turn, require from them deeper levels of knowledge both about themselves and about the larger system, with the ability to relate on a multi-dimensional level with everything around them. Therefore, a change in an individual’s attitude towards transforming different systemic levels might lead to bridging the decay within systemic development. The SHAPEecosystem strategy for youth entrepreneurs introduces youths’ internal domains as the cornerstone and starting point of creating an entrepreneurial ecosystem, referred to as the SHAPE YES Network (youth entrepreneur support network). It starts by maturing a relationship with oneself through fostering an entrepreneurial heartset, mindset, and handset. In other words, the entrepreneurial heart, head, and hand—the Triple H of Entrepreneurship.
Toolkit—Enabling Tools for Entrepreneurship in South Africa
Authors: van der Westhuizen Thea
Published: November 2023

Entrepreneurship is an increasingly important factor in the well-being of individuals and society. Entrepreneurship is a way to tackle head-on the constantly changing business environment of the twenty-first century: building sustainable development, supporting the economic growth of countries, creating new job opportunities for young graduates, and promoting societal well-being in general. Entrepreneurship and business creation are increasingly important alternatives in many countries for young people facing a labour market with double-digit unemployment rates. Supporting the future of business in developing countries requires sustainable businesses that are innovation driven. One way to do this is through co-sensing. Co-sensing entails observing—Observe! Observe! Connect with different people and different places to get a sense of the overall ecosystem and discover mutual opportunities for business development. ‘Co-sensing’ is about connecting with people and ideas to learn more about how things work. This chapter looks at building a business model that will show us what our business could be and do. In doing this, we will look at where opportunities could be located.
En Route: A Self-Reflective Lens as a Case Study
Authors: van der Westhuizen Thea
Published: November 2023

In keeping with the stated paradigm for this research, namely, that the practitioner-researcher and the participants learn jointly from their past and current experiences, I provide the following autobiographical case study, in which I reflect on the experiences in my own life (entrepreneurial experiences in particular) that I believe qualified me to lead the SHAPE systemic action learning and action research (SALAR) project.
Apéry Sets and the Ideal Class Monoid of a Numerical Semigroup
Authors: Casabella Laura , D’Anna Marco , García-Sánchez Pedro A.
Published: November 2023

The aim of this article is to study the ideal class monoid $${\mathscr {C}}\ell (S)$$

C
ℓ
(
S
)

of a numerical semigroup S introduced by V. Barucci and F. Khouja. We prove new bounds on the cardinality of $${\mathscr {C}}\ell (S)$$

C
ℓ
(
S
)

. We observe that $${\mathscr {C}}\ell (S)$$

C
ℓ
(
S
)

is isomorphic to the monoid of ideals of S whose smallest element is 0, which helps to relate $${\mathscr {C}}\ell (S)$$

C
ℓ
(
S
)

to the Apéry sets and the Kunz coordinates of S. We study some combinatorial and algebraic properties of $${\mathscr {C}}\ell (S)$$

C
ℓ
(
S
)

, including the reduction number of ideals, and the Hasse diagrams of $${\mathscr {C}}\ell (S)$$

C
ℓ
(
S
)

with respect to inclusion and addition. From these diagrams, we can recover some notable invariants of the semigroup. Finally, we prove some results about irreducible elements, atoms, quarks, and primes of $$({\mathscr {C}}\ell (S),+)$$

(
C
ℓ
(
S
)
,
+
)

. Idempotent ideals coincide with over-semigroups and idempotent quarks correspond to unitary extensions of the semigroup. We show that a numerical semigroup is irreducible if and only if $${\mathscr {C}}\ell (S)$$

C
ℓ
(
S
)

has at most two quarks.
$$\Gamma $$-conjugate weight enumerators and invariant theory
Authors: Nebe Gabriele , Scheeren Leonie
Published: November 2023

Let K be a field, $$\Gamma $$
Γ
a finite group of field automorphisms of K, F the $$\Gamma $$
Γ
-fixed field in K, and $$G\le {{\,\textrm{GL}\,}}_v(K)$$

G
≤

GL

v

(
K
)

a finite matrix group. Then the action of $$\Gamma $$
Γ
defines a grading on the symmetric algebra of the F-space $$K^v$$

K
v

which we use to introduce the notion of homogeneous $$\Gamma $$
Γ
-conjugate invariants of G. We apply this new grading in invariant theory to broaden the connection between codes and invariant theory by introducing $$\Gamma $$
Γ
-conjugate complete weight enumerators of codes. The main result of this paper applies the theory from Nebe, Rains, Sloane to show that under certain extra conditions these new weight enumerators generate the ring of $$\Gamma $$
Γ
-conjugate invariants of the associated Clifford–Weil groups. As an immediate consequence, we obtain a result by Bannai et al. that the complex conjugate weight enumerators generate the ring of complex conjugate invariants of the complex Clifford group. Also the Schur–Weyl duality conjectured and partly shown by Gross et al. can be derived from our main result.
Combustion characteristics and mechanical properties of wood impregnated with a paraffinic phase change material
Authors: Hartig Jens U. , Haller Peer
Published: November 2023

In this contribution, investigations towards multifunctional wood and timber elements impregnated with phase change materials (PCM) are presented. The purpose of the PCM impregnation is a passive air-conditioning by structural timber elements like beams, walls or ceilings and non-structural elements like flooring or wall panels. PCM have the ability to take up substantial thermal energy within a narrow, latent temperature range without increasing their temperature. The high specific heat capacity combined with low additional mass can improve the room climate in timber buildings, which have often, especially in the summer, unpleasant temperature amplitudes without active air-conditioning due to low thermal mass.

In order to produce PCM-impregnated timber elements, several investigations are performed. As a first aspect, investigations related to the mechanical behaviour of PCM-impregnated wood are presented. The investigations show that in its solid state the PCM can improve the mechanical properties. In the liquid state of the PCM, the mechanical properties of the impregnated wood are on the level of PCM-free wood. A second aspect, which was investigated, is the combustion behaviour. Investigations with cone calorimetry showed that directly flamed PCM-impregnated wood acts as fire accelerant. However, reaction to fire tests of laminated non-structural elements also showed that a proper protection from direct contact to fire could enable a safe use of PCM-impregnated wood in construction elements.
Differential neurocognitive profiles in adult attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder subtypes revealed by the Cambridge Neuropsychological Test Automated Battery
Authors: Somogyi Szilvia , Kilencz Tünde , Szőcs Katalin , Klein Izabella , Balogh Lívia , Molnár Rebeka , Bálint Sára , Pulay Attila J. , Nemoda Zsófia , Baradits Máté , Réthelyi János M.
Published: November 2023

Adult attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (aADHD) represents a heterogeneous entity incorporating different subgroups in terms of symptomatology, course, and neurocognition. Although neurocognitive dysfunction is generally associated with aADHD, its severity, association with self-reported symptoms, and differences between subtypes remain unclear. We investigated 61 outpatients (65.6% male, mean age 31.5 ± 9.5) diagnosed using DSM-5 criteria together with age-, sex-, and education-matched healthy controls (HC) (n = 58, 63.8% male, mean age 32.3 ± 9.6). Neurocognitive alterations were assessed using the Cambridge Neuropsychological Test Automated Battery (CANTAB) and compared between groups using the generalized linear model (GLM) method. Multivariate effects were tested by principal component analysis combined with multivariate pattern analysis. Self-reported symptom severity was tested for correlations with neurocognitive performance. GLM analyses revealed nominally significant differences between the aADHD and HC groups in several domains, however, only the Rapid Visual Information Processing measures survived correction, indicating impaired sustained attention and response inhibition in the aADHD group. Comparison of the predominantly inattentive and the hyperactive-impulsive/combined subtypes yielded nominally significant differences with higher levels of dysfunction in the inattentive group. In the stepwise discriminant analysis aADHD and HC groups were best separated with 2 factors representing sustained attention and reaction time. We found only weak correlations between symptom severity and CANTAB factors. aADHD patients are neuropsychologically heterogeneous and subtypes show different neurocognitive profiles. Differences between the aADHD and HC groups were driven primarily by the inattentive subtype. Sustained attention and its factor derivative showed the most significant alterations in aADHD patients.
Telomere shortening induces aging-associated phenotypes in hiPSC-derived neurons and astrocytes
Authors: Harley Jasmine , Santosa Munirah Mohamad , Ng Chong Yi , Grinchuk Oleg V. , Hor Jin-Hui , Liang Yajing , Lim Valerie Jingwen , Tee Wee Wei , Ong Derrick Sek Tong , Ng Shi-Yan
Published: November 2023

Telomere shortening is a well-established hallmark of cellular aging. Telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) plays a crucial role in maintaining the length of telomeres, which are specialised protective caps at the end of chromosomes. The lack of in vitro aging models, particularly for the central nervous system (CNS), has impeded progress in understanding aging and age-associated neurodegenerative diseases. In this study, we aimed to explore the possibility of inducing aging-associated features in cell types of the CNS using hiPSC (human induced pluripotent stem cell) technology. To achieve this, we utilised CRISPR/Cas9 to generate hiPSCs with a loss of telomerase function and shortened telomeres. Through directed differentiation, we generated motor neurons and astrocytes to investigate whether telomere shortening could lead to age-associated phenotypes. Our findings revealed that shortened telomeres induced age-associated characteristics in both motor neurons and astrocytes including increased cellular senescence, heightened inflammation, and elevated DNA damage. We also observed cell-type specific age-related morphology changes. Additionally, our study highlighted the fundamental role of TERT and telomere shortening in neural progenitor cell (NPC) proliferation and neuronal differentiation. This study serves as a proof of concept that telomere shortening can effectively induce aging-associated phenotypes, thereby providing a valuable tool to investigate age-related decline and neurodegenerative diseases.

Graphical abstract
Aerobic release of arsenic and antimony from mine soils by biostimulation of indigenous microbial activity and bioaugmentation with Cupriavidus genera of bacteria
Authors: Horváthová Hana , Schwarzkopfová Katarína , Vojtková Hana , Jurkovič Ľubomír , Faragó Tomáš , Boturová Kateřina , Hiller Edgar , Urík Martin , Vítková Martina
Published: November 2023

Background and Aims

Bioremediation of soils contaminated with metal(loid)s is an attractive research area due to its sustainability and economic benefits. In the Slovak Republic, there are several abandoned mines containing high concentrations of arsenic (As) and antimony (Sb). This calls for new options for removing these hazardous metalloids from contaminated substrates. Studies on bioleaching of soils co-contaminated with both metalloids are very rare. This study aimed to test the effectiveness of bioleaching of soils heavily co-contaminated with As and Sb (up to 1463 mg.kg–1 and 5825 mg.kg–1, respectively) at a former stibnite mining site (Poproč, eastern Slovakia) through biostimulation and bioaugmentation.

Methods

Bioleaching of As and Sb from four soils was induced by biostimulation of autochthonous microflora with Sabouraud medium (SAB) and SAB+glucose, and bioaugmentation of the soil with bacterial strains Cupriavidus oxalaticus and Cupriavidus metallidurans. Soil samples were subjected to determination of physico-chemical properties, microbiological parameters, and additional mineralogical analysis.

Results

An inverse relationship between the total metalloid concentration and the microbial diversity was confirmed. In experiments with Cupriavidus metallidurans and Cupriavidus oxalaticus, mean bioleached As fractions were 37.6% and 41.3%, while Sb bioleaching was significantly lower, ranging between 17.0–26.2%. The mean bioleached fraction of As and Sb using SAB was 40.7% and 14.4%, respectively. The addition of glucose to SAB increased As bioleaching (50.7%) but not that of Sb.

Conclusion

Collectively, the results highlighted a role of microorganisms in the mobility of metalloids in soils with their prospective applications in remediation of contaminated sites.
Actions and perceived impact of African swine fever control measures along the smallholder pig value chain in Uganda
Authors: Aliro Tonny , Odongo Walter , Ståhl Karl , Dione Michel Mainack , Okello Daniel Micheal , Masembe Charles , Chenais Erika
Published: November 2023

Pig production in Uganda is constrained by African swine fever (ASF) which is endemic in the country. Current measures taken by the Government of Uganda in controlling ASF outbreaks include trade and livestock movement restrictions, called “quarantine.” Little is known about the actions of, and impact of value chain actors in response to ASF quarantines. This study describes actions that different stakeholders in the smallholder pig value chain took, and the perceived economic impact, during ASF quarantines. Data was collected in ten focus group discussions (FGD) using participatory epidemiology tools and two key informants’ (KIs) interviews with District Veterinary Officers (DVOs) of Kisoro and Moyo districts in Uganda. The results show that during ASF quarantine, pig value chain actors shifted their activities from formal places such as livestock markets, slaughter slabs, pork butcheries and pork joints to informal places such as farmers’ homesteads. Farmers were perceived the most economically affected stakeholder group with forgone income due to unsold pigs, costs for implementing biosecurity measures and extra costs for feeding unsold pigs being the major perceived causes of the losses. The continued trade in pigs and pig products in informal marketplaces suggests that quarantine might not be effective for hindering activities that might spread ASF in these settings. The perceived economic losses provide an insight into the negative economic impact of the quarantine for the different stakeholders.
Variable physical functions in individuals in response to sensory stimuli
Authors: Tsujimoto Masashi , Yoshida Takahiro , Tanaka Seiya , Shitara Hitoshi , Suzuki Keisuke
Published: November 2023

Purpose

Sensory stimulation affects physical function; however, the type and range of physical function change remain unclear. This study aimed to evaluate the type and extent of changes in simple physical functions resulting from exposure to color and taste stimuli.

Methods

Five basic colors (red, blue, yellow, green, and black) and foods representative of the five basic tastes (sweet, sour, salty, bitter, and umami) were used as stimuli. Three different physical function tests on muscle strength (grip strength), flexibility (bending length), and balance (stabilometer trajectory area) were performed while wearing color-tinted goggles or after tasting food stimuli. All the stimuli tests were performed in 1 day and repeated for 6 successive days each for color and taste stimuli.

Results

Each stimulus had a different effect on the participants. For color stimulation, the median change ratio between the minimum and maximum effects was 5.68% (4.14–8.07%) for muscle strength, 8.52% (5.11–13.39%) for flexibility, and 30.60% (26.81–36.18%) for balance. The corresponding values for taste stimulation were 4.96% (3.67–7.89%), 6.11% (4.37–8.86%), and 28.92% (21.38–34.01%). The rate of change in balance was the highest among the three physical tests and was significantly different from the rate of change in other physical functions (balance vs. muscle power, P < 0.001; balance vs. flexibility, P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Color and taste stimuli have different effects on physical function, with individual-level differences in sensitivity to stimuli. Sensory stimuli may affect individual physical functions.
Role of the kisspeptin-KISS1R axis in the pathogenesis of chronic kidney disease and uremic cardiomyopathy
Authors: Dinh Hoa , Kovács Zsuzsanna Z. A. , Kis Merse , Kupecz Klaudia , Sejben Anita , Szűcs Gergő , Márványkövi Fanni , Siska Andrea , Freiwan Marah , Pósa Szonja Polett , Galla Zsolt , Ibos Katalin Eszter , Bodnár Éva , Lauber Gülsüm Yilmaz , Goncalves Ana Isabel Antunes , Acar Eylem , Kriston András , Kovács Ferenc , Horváth Péter , Bozsó Zsolt , Tóth Gábor , Földesi Imre , Monostori Péter , Cserni Gábor , Podesser Bruno K. , Lehoczki Andrea , Pokreisz Peter , Kiss Attila , Dux László , Csabafi Krisztina , Sárközy Márta
Published: November 2023

The prevalence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) is increasing globally, especially in elderly patients. Uremic cardiomyopathy is a common cardiovascular complication of CKD, characterized by left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH), diastolic dysfunction, and fibrosis. Kisspeptins and their receptor, KISS1R, exert a pivotal influence on kidney pathophysiology and modulate age-related pathologies across various organ systems. KISS1R agonists, including kisspeptin-13 (KP-13), hold promise as novel therapeutic agents within age-related biological processes and kidney-related disorders. Our investigation aimed to elucidate the impact of KP-13 on the trajectory of CKD and uremic cardiomyopathy. Male Wistar rats (300–350 g) were randomized into four groups: (I) sham-operated, (II) 5/6 nephrectomy-induced CKD, (III) CKD subjected to a low dose of KP-13 (intraperitoneal 13 µg/day), and (IV) CKD treated with a higher KP-13 dose (intraperitoneal 26 µg/day). Treatments were administered daily from week 3 for 10 days. After 13 weeks, KP-13 increased systemic blood pressure, accentuating diastolic dysfunction’s echocardiographic indicators and intensifying CKD-associated markers such as serum urea levels, glomerular hypertrophy, and tubular dilation. Notably, KP-13 did not exacerbate circulatory uremic toxin levels, renal inflammation, or fibrosis markers. In contrast, the higher KP-13 dose correlated with reduced posterior and anterior wall thickness, coupled with diminished cardiomyocyte cross-sectional areas and concurrent elevation of inflammatory (Il6, Tnf), fibrosis (Col1), and apoptosis markers (Bax/Bcl2) relative to the CKD group. In summary, KP-13’s influence on CKD and uremic cardiomyopathy encompassed heightened blood pressure and potentially activated inflammatory and apoptotic pathways in the left ventricle.
The Evolving Treatment Landscape of Medullary Thyroid Cancer
Authors: Laganà Marta , Cremaschi Valentina , Alberti Andrea , Vodopivec Kuri Danica M. , Cosentini Deborah , Berruti Alfredo
Published: November 2023

Opinion statement

Genetic assessment is crucial to address the correct treatment for advanced medullary thyroid cancer (MTC). Multi tyrosine kinase inhibitors (mTKIs) cabozantinib and vandetanib are good first line options, even vandetanib prescription is currently limited to RET mutated patients. Selective RET inhibitors such as pralsetinib could be a preferred upfront treatment in case of RET mutated MTC presenting common or gatekeeper RET mutations (e.g. M918T; V804L/M). Selpercatinib, otherwise, can be prescribed as the second line after disease progression to mTKIs. The best option for subsequent lines is to consider inclusion in clinical trials or alternatively other mTKIs such as sunitinib, sorafenib, lenvatinib, or pazopanib could be evaluated. New perspectives include next-generation RET inhibitors able to overcome resistance mechanisms responsible for disease progression to standard mTKIs and RET inhibitors, and immunotherapy for MTC presenting with high tumor mutational burden.
Advancements in the Genetics of Spontaneous Coronary Artery Dissection
Authors: Katz Alexander E. , Ganesh Santhi K.
Published: November 2023

Purpose of Review

Spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD) is a significant cause of acute myocardial infarction that is increasingly recognized in young and middle-aged women. The etiology of SCAD is likely multifactorial and may include the interaction of environmental and individual factors. Here, we summarize the current understanding of the genetic factors contributing to the development of SCAD.

Recent Findings

The molecular findings underlying SCAD have been demonstrated to include a combination of rare DNA sequence variants with large effects, common variants contributing to a complex genetic architecture, and variants with intermediate impact. The genes associated with SCAD highlight the role of arterial cells and their extracellular matrix in the pathogenesis of the disease and shed light on the relationship between SCAD and other disorders, including fibromuscular dysplasia and connective tissue diseases.

While up to 10% of affected individuals may harbor a rare variant with large effect, SCAD most often presents as a complex genetic condition. Analyses of larger and more diverse cohorts will continue to improve our understanding of risk susceptibility loci and will also enable consideration of the clinical utility of genetic testing strategies in the management of SCAD.
Associations Between Cancer Risk Perceptions, Self-Efficacy, and Health Behaviors by BMI Category and Race and Ethnicity
Authors: Ezeani Adaora , Boggan Brianna , Hopper Lorenzo N. , Herren Olga M. , Agurs-Collins Tanya
Published: November 2023

Background

Cancer risk perceptions and high health-related self-efficacy may impact health behaviors and reduce risk of developing obesity-related cancers. The purpose of this study was to examine whether there are differences in associations among cancer risk perceptions, health-related self-efficacy, and health behaviors between people with healthy weight (PwHW) and people with overweight or obesity (PwO/O), and whether these associations vary by race and ethnicity.

Method

Data from the Health Information National Trends Survey (HINTS) 5 Cycles 2 and 3 were used. Data from 6944 adults were analyzed using multivariate logistic regression to assess associations among study variables.

Results

PwO/O who believed there are too many cancer prevention recommendations had lower log odds of meeting guidelines for strength training (β − 0.28; CI − 0.53 to − 0.04; p < 0.05) compared to PwHW. PwO/O who believed that obesity influences cancer risk were associated with low sedentary behavior (β 0.29; CI 0.05–0.54; p < 0.05) compared to PwHW. NHB PwO/O who held fatalistic beliefs and reported high self-efficacy ordered less food (e.g., fewer food items, foods with less calories, or smaller food sizes) compared to NHB Pw/HW (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Health behavior differences in PwHW and PwO/O may be associated with differences in cancer risk beliefs and health-related self-efficacy. Findings support the need for further research considering BMI and race and ethnicity in obesity-related cancer prevention and control.