bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Recovery of pure nickel powder from petroleum refinery sludge via a process consisting of leaching, cementation, precipitation, solvent extraction, and chemical reduction
Authors: Wen Jiangxian , Lee Man Seung
Published: August 2023

BACKGROUND

Sludge resulting from petroleum refining contains metal oxides such as nickel, copper, aluminum, iron, zinc, calcium, and magnesium. Since the demand for nickel is increasing, a process was proposed to recover pure nickel metal powder from this sludge. In this study, leaching, cementation, precipitation, solvent extraction, and chemical reduction operations were carried out and employed for the recovery of nickel powder from sludge.

RESULTS

Nickel oxide was first completely dissolved using 0.3 mol L−1 H2SO4 solution at a pulp density of 50 g L−1. The leaching solution contained Al(III), Ca(II), Cu(II), Fe(III), Mg(II), Ni(II), and Zn(II). Most of the copper, magnesium, nickel, and zinc were completely dissolved at this step. Copper(II) was removed by cementation with iron powder. After oxidizing Fe(II) to Fe(III) using H2O2, Fe(III) and Al(III) were simultaneously separated by precipitation of their hydroxides at a solution pH of 4. Five stages of cross‐current extraction of Zn(II) with saponified Cyanex 272 led to a raffinate containing only Ni(II), Ca(II), and Mg(II). Nickel metal powders were recovered from this raffinate by chemical reduction with hydrazine.

CONCLUSION

The mass balance of the continuous experiments verified that 99% of the nickel was recovered from the sludge as metal powders with extra high purity. In these separation steps, optimum conditions were obtained and a simple and efficient process was proposed to recover pure nickel metal powders from the sludge. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Preoperative Discrimination of CDKN2A/B Homozygous Deletion Status in Isocitrate Dehydrogenase‐Mutant Astrocytoma: A Deep Learning‐Based Radiomics Model Using MRI
Authors: Gao Jueni , Liu Zhi , Pan Hongyu , Cao Xu , Kan Yubo , Wen Zhipeng , Chen Shanxiong , Wen Ming , Zhang Liqiang
Published: August 2023

Background

Cyclin‐dependent kinase inhibitor 2A/B (CDKN2A/B) homozygous deletion has been verified as an independent and critical biomarker of negative prognosis and short survival in isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH)‐mutant astrocytoma. Therefore, noninvasive and accurate discrimination of CDKN2A/B homozygous deletion status is essential for the clinical management of IDH‐mutant astrocytoma patients.

Purpose

To develop a noninvasive, robust preoperative model based on MR image features for discriminating CDKN2A/B homozygous deletion status of IDH‐mutant astrocytoma.

Study Type

Retrospective.

Population

Two hundred fifty‐one patients: 107 patients with CDKN2A/B homozygous deletion and 144 patients without CDKN2A/B homozygous deletion.

Field Strength/Sequence:3.0 T/1.5 T

Contrast‐enhanced T1‐weighted spin‐echo inversion recovery sequence (CE‐T1WI) and T2‐weighted fluid‐attenuation spin‐echo inversion recovery sequence (T2FLAIR).

Assessment

A total of 1106 radiomics and 1000 deep learning features extracted from CE‐T1WI and T2FLAIR were used to develop models to discriminate the CDKN2A/B homozygous deletion status. Radiomics models, deep learning‐based radiomics (DLR) models and the final integrated model combining radiomics features with deep learning features were developed and compared their preoperative discrimination performance.

Statistical Testing

Pearson chi‐square test and Mann Whitney U test were used for assessing the statistical differences in patients' clinical characteristics. The Delong test compared the statistical differences of receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves and area under the curve (AUC) of different models. The significance threshold is P < 0.05.

Results

The final combined model (training AUC = 0.966; validation AUC = 0.935; test group: AUC = 0.943) outperformed the optimal models based on only radiomics or DLR features (training: AUC = 0.916 and 0.952; validation: AUC = 0.886 and 0.912; test group: AUC = 0.862 and 0.902).

Data Conclusion

Whether based on a single sequence or a combination of two sequences, radiomics and DLR models have achieved promising performance in assessing CDKN2A/B homozygous deletion status. However, the final model combining both deep learning and radiomics features from CE‐T1WI and T2FLAIR outperformed the optimal radiomics or DLR model.

Evidence Level

4

Technical Efficacy

Stage 2
Chatbots in frontline services and customer experience: An anthropomorphism perspective
Authors: Nguyen Mai , Casper Ferm Lars‐Erik , Quach Sara , Pontes Nicolas , Thaichon Park
Published: August 2023

This study measures the effects of chatbot anthropomorphic language on customers' perception of chatbot competence and authenticity on customer engagement while taking into consideration the moderating roles of humanlike appearance and brand credibility. We conducted two experimental studies to examine the conceptual framework. Study 1 tests the moderating effect of a chatbot's anthropomorphic appearance on the relationship between chatbots' language and customer engagement. Study 2 tests the moderating effect of brand credibility on the relationship between a chatbot's anthropomorphic language and customer engagement. The findings confirm that the interaction between humanlike appearance via the use of avatars and anthropomorphic language, such as using emojis, in conversations with customers influences customer engagement, and that this effect is mediated by perceived chatbot competence and authenticity. Further, the positive effect of anthropomorphic language on perceived competence, and subsequently on authenticity and engagement, is only significant when the brand credibility was low (vs. high). This study offers insights into the effect of chatbots' anthropomorphic language and provides suggestions on how to devise efficient strategies for engaging customers using chatbots.
Uncertainty principles for the windowed Opdam–Cherednik transform
Authors: Mondal Shyam Swarup , Poria Anirudha
Published: August 2023

In this paper, we study a few versions of the uncertainty principle for the windowed Opdam–Cherednik transform. In particular, we establish the uncertainty principle for orthonormal sequences, Donoho–Stark's uncertainty principle, Benedicks‐type uncertainty principle, Heisenberg‐type uncertainty principle, and local uncertainty inequality for this transform. We also obtain the Heisenberg‐type uncertainty inequality using the
‐entropy of the windowed Opdam–Cherednik transform.
Automated 2‐Dimensional Measurement of Vestibular Schwannoma: Validity and Accuracy of an Artificial Intelligence Algorithm
Authors: Neve Olaf M. , Romeijn Stephan R. , Chen Yunjie , Nagtegaal Larissa , Grootjans Willem , Jansen Jeroen C. , Staring Marius , Verbist Berit M. , Hensen Erik F.
Published: August 2023

Objective

Validation of automated 2‐dimensional (2D) diameter measurements of vestibular schwannomas on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Study Design

Retrospective validation study using 2 data sets containing MRIs of vestibular schwannoma patients.

Setting

University Hospital in The Netherlands.

Methods

Two data sets were used, 1 containing 1 scan per patient (n = 134) and the other containing at least 3 consecutive MRIs of 51 patients, all with contrast‐enhanced T1 or high‐resolution T2 sequences. 2D measurements of the maximal extrameatal diameters in the axial plane were automatically derived from a 3D‐convolutional neural network compared to manual measurements by 2 human observers. Intra‐ and interobserver variabilities were calculated using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), agreement on tumor progression using Cohen's kappa.

Results

The human intra‐ and interobserver variability showed a high correlation (ICC: 0.98‐0.99) and limits of agreement of 1.7 to 2.1 mm. Comparing the automated to human measurements resulted in ICC of 0.98 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.974; 0.987) and 0.97 (95% CI: 0.968; 0.984), with limits of agreement of 2.2 and 2.1 mm for diameters parallel and perpendicular to the posterior side of the temporal bone, respectively. There was satisfactory agreement on tumor progression between automated measurements and human observers (Cohen's κ = 0.77), better than the agreement between the human observers (Cohen's κ = 0.74).

Conclusion

Automated 2D diameter measurements and growth detection of vestibular schwannomas are at least as accurate as human 2D measurements. In clinical practice, measurements of the maximal extrameatal tumor (2D) diameters of vestibular schwannomas provide important complementary information to total tumor volume (3D) measurements. Combining both in an automated measurement algorithm facilitates clinical adoption.
The Association of Hearing Loss With Active Music Enjoyment in Hearing Aid Users
Authors: Chern Alexander , Denham Michael W. , Leiderman Alexis S. , Sharma Rahul K. , Su Irene W. , Ucci Amanda J. , Jones Jennifer M. , Mancuso Dean , Cellum Ilana P. , Galatioto Jessica A. , Lalwani Anil K.
Published: August 2023

Objective

Hearing aids (HAs) are designed for speech rather than music listening. The impact of HAs on music enjoyment is poorly studied. We examine the effect of HAs on active music enjoyment in individuals with varying levels of hearing loss (HL).

Study Design

Cross‐sectional study.

Setting

Tertiary medical center and community.

Methods

Adult (≥18 years) bilateral HA users and normal hearing (NH) controls actively listened to musical stimuli and rated their enjoyment across 3 measures (pleasantness, musicality, naturalness) with and without HAs using a visual analog scale. Multivariable linear regression was used to assess the association between HL (measured by a pure‐tone average [PTA] and word recognition score [WRS] of the better ear) and music enjoyment with and without HAs, adjusting for covariates. Music enjoyment was compared between HA users and NH controls, and HA users with and without their HAs.

Results

One hundred bilateral HA users (mean age 66.0 years, 52% female, better ear mean [SD] PTA 50.2 [13.5] dBHL, mean WRS 84.5 [16.5]%) completed the study. Increasing severity of HL (PTA) was independently associated with decreased music enjoyment (pleasantness, musicality, naturalness) with and without HAs (p < .05). HA usage increased music enjoyment (musicality) in those with moderate to moderately severe HL. Music enjoyment in NH controls (n = 20) was significantly greater across all measures compared to HA users.

Conclusion

Increased severity of HL is associated with decreased music enjoyment that can be enhanced with HA usage. Thus, HA usage can positively enhance both speech and music appreciation.
Elucidating human–nature connectedness in three EU countries: A pro‐environmental behaviour perspective
Authors: Mikusiński Grzegorz , Elbakidze Marine , Orlikowska Ewa H. , Skaltsa Ioanna G. , Żmihorski Michał , Iwińska Katarzyna
Published: August 2023

Strengthening positive human–nature relationships is seen as a way to more pro‐environmental behaviour and leads to a greater environmental sustainability. Therefore, understanding human–nature relationships has attracted increasing attention among researchers. Nature connectedness is a concept developed to measure such relationships. Since nature connectedness is complex and context dependent phenomenon, more research comparing sociocultural and environmental factors within societies in different countries is needed to understand its determinants.

In this study, we explored how sociodemographic and socioeconomic characteristics and value orientation of respondents and environmental variables affected nature connectedness across different contexts in the European Union. We used 11 sociodemographic, socioeconomic and personal value factors from the computer‐assisted web interview (CAWI) and six environmental variables characterizing the local environments of 1054 respondents as independent variables to explain the nature connectedness of the respondents in Greece, Poland and Sweden. The individual level of nature connectedness (response variable) was expressed by an additive index (NC‐index) based on a 5‐item scale originating from CAWI. The general additive model was applied to link NC‐index to sociodemographic, value orientation and selected environmental variables.

We found that the sociodemographic characteristics of the respondents and their value orientation were substantially more important in explaining the individual level of nature connectedness than environmental variables. The NC‐index was positively correlated with the frequency of visits to the natural environment and biospheric values of the respondents, and was higher for women and the most prosperous respondents. Moreover, we observed several country‐wise differences in associations between explanatory variables and NC‐index. For example, altruistic orientation was positively related to the level of nature connectedness only in Greece, but not in two other countries, and residence during childhood was important to nature connectedness only in Sweden.

Our findings that some sociodemographic, socioeconomic and value orientation variables affect the level of individual nature connectedness across studied countries are encouraging. They indicate that some universally applied educational actions may elevate the level of nature connectedness. We argue that exploration of nature connectedness from a cross‐country perspective may provide significant insights into the environmental debate in national and international contexts.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
DNA methylation‐associated allelic inactivation regulates Keratin 19 gene expression during pancreatic development and carcinogenesis
Authors: Krüger Jana , Fischer Anja , Breunig Markus , Allgöwer Chantal , Schulte Lucas , Merkle Jessica , Mulaw Medhanie A , Okeke Nnamdi , Melzer Michael K , Morgenstern Clara , Azoitei Ninel , Seufferlein Thomas , Barth Thomas FE , Siebert Reiner , Hohwieler Meike , Kleger Alexander
Published: August 2023

Within the pancreas, Keratin 19 (KRT19) labels the ductal lineage and is a determinant of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). To investigate KRT19 expression dynamics, we developed a human pluripotent stem cell (PSC)‐based KRT19‐mCherry reporter system in different genetic backgrounds to monitor KRT19 expression from its endogenous gene locus. A differentiation protocol to generate mature pancreatic duct‐like organoids was applied. While KRT19/mCherry expression became evident at the early endoderm stage, mCherry signal was present in nearly all cells at the pancreatic endoderm (PE) and pancreatic progenitor (PP) stages. Interestingly, despite homogenous KRT19 expression, mCherry positivity dropped to 50% after ductal maturation, indicating a permanent switch from biallelic to monoallelic expression. DNA methylation profiling separated the distinct differentiation intermediates, with site‐specific DNA methylation patterns occurring at the KRT19 locus during ductal maturation. Accordingly, the monoallelic switch was partially reverted upon treatment with a DNA‐methyltransferase inhibitor. In human PDAC cohorts, high KRT19 levels correlate with low locus methylation and decreased survival. At the same time, activation of oncogenic KRASG12D signalling in our reporter system reversed monoallelic back to biallelic KRT19 expression in pancreatic duct‐like organoids. Allelic reactivation was also detected in single‐cell transcriptomes of human PDACs, which further revealed a positive correlation between KRT19 and KRAS expression. Accordingly, KRAS mutant PDACs had higher KRT19 mRNA but lower KRT19 gene locus DNA methylation than wildtype counterparts. KRT19 protein was additionally detected in plasma of PDAC patients, with higher concentrations correlating with shorter progression‐free survival in gemcitabine/nabPaclitaxel‐treated and opposing trends in FOLFIRINOX‐treated patients. Apart from being an important pancreatic ductal lineage marker, KRT19 appears tightly controlled via a switch from biallelic to monoallelic expression during ductal lineage entry and is aberrantly expressed after oncogenic KRASG12D expression, indicating a role in PDAC development and malignancy. Soluble KRT19 might serve as a relevant biomarker to stratify treatment. © 2023 The Authors. The Journal of Pathology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
Investigation of the low‐temperature properties and oil resistance of peroxide‐cured epichlorohydrin rubber and nitrile butadiene rubber blends
Authors: He Chunjiang , Gao Ming , Chen Chuanzhi , Ji Yuan , Zhao Jingcun , Pei Dingfeng , Wang Wei
Published: August 2023

Low‐acrylonitrile nitrile butadiene rubbers (NBRs) are seriously degraded by No. 15 oil in the hydraulic system of aircraft. The present work aims to prepare rubber materials with excellent low‐temperature and No. 15 aviation hydraulic oil resistance. Terpolymerization epichlorohydrin rubber (ECO) and low‐acrylonitrile NBR were blended. The blends were vulcanized using peroxide. The effects of the ECO/NBR blending ratio on the oil resistance and low‐temperature, physical and mechanical, hot air aging, and ozone aging properties were investigated using a multitechnique approach. The results showed that ECO had double bonds and could be vulcanized by peroxide. The percentage of volume swelling of ECO in No. 15 oil was about 1/7 of that of NBR. As the ECO content increased, the oil and ozone resistance and brittle temperature were gradually improved. The coefficient of cold resistance under compression and glass transition temperature peaked at a ratio of 50/50 due to the migration of dicumyl peroxide from ECO to NBR. Further, vulcanization, hot air aging, and other physical properties are also discussed. This work provides a reference for the development of ultra‐low‐temperature performance and No. 15 oil‐resistant sealing rubber materials.

Highlights

ECO EPION 301 could be cured by peroxide.

The blends of ECO and low‐acrylonitrile NBR could be cured by peroxide.

The blends exhibited better oil resistance and low‐temperature performance.

Some dicumyl peroxide migrated from ECO to NBR in the blends.
Shared psychotic disorder
Authors: Arulanandam Sherlie , Cole Jenny , Gibbard Harriet , Goble Lucy
Published: August 2023

This case report gives an insight into the otherwise rarely seen presentation of shared psychosis and documents how it developed over a number of years. It illustrates how life stressors and social isolation exacerbated by the COVID 19 pandemic contributed to the development of this curious case.
Obviously Enhanced Fluorescent Signal of Core‐Shell Nanostructures through Simultaneous Regulation of Spectral Overlap and Shell Thickness for Imaging and Photothermal Therapy of Ovarian Cancer Cells
Authors: Li Xianyang , Huang Jingyuan , Wu Xin , Piao Xianling , Lv Danning , Zhang Gude , Ahn Dong June , Cui Chunzhi
Published: August 2023

In this research, by simultaneously regulating the two major factors affecting the plasmonic enhanced fluorescence (PEF), spectral overlap and the distance between the fluororophores and the noble metal nanoparticles, a significantly enhanced fluorescent signal is achieved. Core‐shell nanostructures composed of aspect ratio (AR) adjustable gold nanorods (GNRs) and various thickness of SiO2 are prepared and the decorated fluorophores are realized optimized PEF. A typical stimuli‐responsive conjugated polymer, polydiacetylene (PDA), and a near‐infrared (NIR) dye Cy5.5 are selected as fluorophores and their fluorescent signal are enhanced 7.26 and 4.41 times, respectively. Based on the optimized optical properties, a multifunctional antibody modified Mab‐Cy5.5‐GNRs@SiO2 is successfully demonstrated the targeting, imaging, and photothermal therapy (PTT) effects on SKOV‐3 ovarian cancer cells.
Improving mass accuracy in matrix‐assisted laser desorption ionization time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry analysis of pathogenic proteins using 6xHIS‐tagged internal calibration
Authors: Lee Saeyoung , Park Ju‐Ri , Hwang Seohyun , Yang Won Suk , Baek Je‐Hyun
Published: August 2023

Rationale

Linear mode of matrix‐assisted laser desorption ionization time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry (MALDI‐TOFMS) has been routinely used for bacterial identification in the clinic, depending on the pattern analysis of spectral libraries rather than accurate mass measurement of ribosomal proteins (10–15 kDa). However, a demand for more accurate mass analysis of pathogens (e.g. KPC‐2 carbapenemase) has been recently increasing for diagnostic purposes.

Methods

We introduced a 6xHIS‐tagged KPC‐2 (i.e. hKPC‐2) and used it as an internal mass calibrator for the mass calibration of target proteins. After internal mass calibration (In‐Cal), we evaluated the observed mass of KPC‐2 against the theoretical mass of hKPC‐2, which has 823 Da mass difference from the target protein. We further assessed the accuracy and precision of our calibration method regarding the identification of KPC‐2 and other pathogens in clinical isolates (n = 42).

Results

Among several candidates for internal mass calibrators, the In‐Cal using a 6xHIS‐tagged protein on the target showed the highest mass accuracy and precision in the detection of target proteins (e.g. KPC‐2). The application of hKPC‐2 as an internal calibrator showed substantial improvement of mass accuracy, mass precision and also quantification of KPC in linearity and repeatability for KPC detection in the clinical isolates.

Conclusions

Our In‐Cal method using 6xHIS‐tagged protein in MALDI‐TOFMS allows successful mass calibration (<3.5 Da) of pathogenic proteins (>20 kDa) and provides high mass accuracy as much as that of medium‐ and high‐resolution mass spectrometry.
Deep learning‐based training data augmentation combined with post‐classification improves the classification accuracy for dominant and scattered invasive forest tree species
Authors: Likó Szilárd Balázs , Holb Imre J. , Oláh Viktor , Burai Péter , Szabó Szilárd
Published: August 2023

Species composition of forests is a very important component from the point of view of nature conservation and forestry. We aimed to identify 10 tree species in a hilly forest stand using a hyperspectral aerial image with a particular focus on two invasive species, namely Ailanthus tree and black locust. Deep learning‐based training data augmentation (TDA) and post‐classification techniques were tested with Random Forest and Support Vector Machine (SVM) classifiers. SVM had better performance with 81.6% overall accuracy (OA). TDA increased the OA to 82.5% and post‐classification with segmentation improved the total accuracy to 86.2%. The class‐level performance was more convincing: the invasive Ailanthus trees were identified with 40% higher producer's and user's accuracies (PA and UA) to 70% related to the common technique (using a training dataset and classifying the trees). The PA and UA did not change in the case of the other invasive species, black locust. Accordingly, this new method identifies well Ailanthus, a sparsely distributed species in the area; while it was less efficient with black locust that dominates larger patches in the stand. The combination of the two ancillary steps of hyperspectral image classification proved to be reasonable and can support forest management planning and nature conservation in the future.
Phosphorus availability and corn (Zea mays L.) response to application of P‐based commercial organic fertilizers to a calcareous soil
Authors: Kodaolu Busayo , Mohammed Ibrahim , Gillespie Adam W. , Audette Yuki , Longstaffe James G.
Published: August 2023

Recycling of organic wastes for agricultural production has been recommended as a sustainable way to close the phosphorus (P) cycle. This study seeks to characterize the P forms in organic fertilizers derived from agricultural and nonagricultural source materials to understand how these organic fertilizers will affect corn growth and soil available P. Organic fertilizers including turkey litter compost (TLC), biosolid pellets (BSP), and source separated organic compost (SSO) were applied to a sandy loam soil and compared to controls that received no nutrients or chemical fertilizer. Results from sequential chemical extractions and X‐ray absorption near edge structure spectroscopy revealed that most of the P species are inorganic, with SSO and TLC containing primarily Ca‐P and Mg‐P forms, while the P in the BSP treatments was mostly associated with aluminium (Al). The two chemical fertilizer treatments had the greatest impact on corn height at the initial growth stage; however, after 42 days, corn height was similar for the organic fertilizers and chemical treatment. This initial slow response from the organic fertilizer treatments reduced the grain yield compared to chemical treatment. The results of this study suggest that priority should be given to sufficient P availability at the initial growth stage. Overall, organic fertilizer is a promising P source for grain crop production, but calibration and correlation studies are needed to ensure optimum supply of P for the initial growth stage.
Coupled effect of waste glass powder and glass fibers on mechanical properties of concrete: A step towards the elimination of non‐biodegradable waste
Authors: Ahmed Tauqir , Ali Muhammad , Akmal Usman , Aslam Fahid , Abbass Wasim , Aziz Mubashir , Hamza Muhammad , Shah Ihsanullah , Shah Hammad Ahmed
Published: August 2023

Silica, a principal component of waste glass powder (GP) reacts with calcium hydroxide to form the hydration products, and the process is affected by the fineness of GP and the percentage of cement replaced. This study investigates the structural behavior of concrete incorporating GP in reinforced concrete members by 0%–25% (by weight) replacement of cement with GP along with 0%–0.45% addition of glass fibers (GFs). The compressive and tensile strengths, strength activity index (SAI), and failure mode of treated concrete mixtures have revealed the optimum values as 15% replacement of cement with GP with 0.3% of GF. In the second stage of experiment, reinforced concrete beams were cast at various percentages of GP and GF to investigate the load–deflection response. It was observed that the beam specimen treated with GP exhibited considerably less mid‐span deflection (14.8 mm) at failure as compared to the control beam (with no GP and GF) which failed at 29.4 mm. The beam specimen treated with GP only showed significant degradation in stiffness after the peak load due to the fact that a part of GP remains unreacted and acts as a filler. Moreover, the beam specimen cast at optimum percentages of GP (15%) and GF (0.3%) showed large mid‐span deflection and higher failure load as compared to the control beam. These results suggest that the partial replacement of cement with GP should be accompanied by the addition of fibers to avoid unwanted brittle responses of GP concrete, with the additional advantage of reducing the non‐biodegradable waste.
Genes associated with N6‐methyladenosine regulators provide insight into the prognosis and immune response to renal clear cell carcinoma
Authors: Fan Guobin , Wu Dejun , Chen Huaping , Wen Zhi , Liao Linhui , He Shuming , Yang Jie
Published: August 2023

As one of the most common messenger ribonucleic acid modifications in eukaryotic organisms, N6‐methyladenosine (m6A) is involved in a wide variety of biological functions. The imbalance of m6A RNA modification may be linked to cancer and other disorders, according to a growing body of studies. Its effects on clear cell renal cell carcinoma (KIRC) have not been well discussed, though. Here, we acquired the expression patterns of 23 important regulators of m6A RNA modification and assess how they might fare in KIRC. We observed that 17 major m6A RNA modification regulatory factors had a substantial predictive influence on KIRC. Using the “ConsensusCluster” program, we defined two groupings (Cluster 1 and Cluster 2) depending on the expression of the aforementioned 17 key m6A RNA methylation regulators. The Cluster 2 has a less favorable outcome and is strongly related with a lesser immune microenvironment, according to the findings. We also developed a strong risk profile for three m6A RNA modifiers (METTL14, YTHDF1, and LRPPRC) using multivariate Cox regression analysis. According to further research, the aforementioned risk profile could serve as an independent predicting factor for KIRC, and the chemotherapy response sensitivity was analyzed between two risk groups. Moreover, to effectively forecast the future outlook of KIRC clients, we established a novel prognostic approach according to gender, age, histopathological level, clinical stage, and risk score. Finally, the function of hub gene METTL14 was validated by cell proliferation and subcutaneous graft tumor in mice. In conclusion, we discovered that m6A RNA modifiers play an important role in controlling KIRC and created a viable risk profile as a marker of prediction for KIRC clients.
Serological survey of Toxoplasma gondii infection in the one‐humped camels (Camelus dromedarius) in the south of Iran
Authors: Yektaseresht Azadeh , Ghane Mohsen , Atashbar Fatemeh , Aliabadi Jalal
Published: August 2023

Background

Toxoplasmosis, an important zoonotic disease, is caused by Toxoplasma gondii. Camels are one of several host species for T. gondii parasites and play an important role in the transmission of T. gondii to humans.

Objectives

The present study aimed to describe the seroprevalence of T. gondii in dromedary camels (Camelus dromedarius) from three provinces (Fars, Bushehr and Hormozgan), southern Iran first for this host.

Methods

A total of 180 serum samples were analysed for the presence of anti‐Toxoplasma IgG antibodies using the enzyme‐linked immune‐sorbent assay.

Results

Our results showed an overall seroprevalence of T. gondii in 15% of animals. Antibodies to T. gondii were found in sera of 27 of 180 dromedary camels from Fars, Bushehr and Hormozgan provinces, southern Iran. Age or the gender of the camel did not significantly affect the seroprevalence (p > 0.05). There was no significant association between herd‐level seroprevalence of T. gondii infection and abortion history, province location residence, history of animal keeping and history of contact with other animals (p > 0.05).

Conclusions

The results of this study showed the presence of T. gondii antibodies among camels in Southern Iran, which could be a public health concern. According to the prevalence of T. gondii infection in camel, the implementation of control measures to reduce infection in both definitive and intermediate hosts is needed.
Anti‐microbial resistance and aging—A design for evolution
Authors: Nepalia Amrita , Fernandes Sheryl Erica , Singh Harpreet , Rana Shweta , Saini Deepak Kumar
Published: August 2023

The emergence of resistance to anti‐infective agents poses a significant threat to successfully treating infections caused by bacteria. Bacteria acquire random mutations due to exposure to environmental stresses, which may increase their fitness to other selection pressures. Interestingly, for bacteria, the frequency of anti‐microbial resistance (AMR) seems to be increasing in tandem with the human lifespan. Based on evidence from previous literature, we speculate that increased levels of free radicals (Reactive Oxygen Species‐ROS and Reactive Nitrosative Species‐RNS), elevated inflammation, and the altered tissue microenvironment in aged individuals may drive pathogen mutagenesis. If these mutations result in the hyperactivation of efflux pumps or alteration in drug target binding sites, it could confer AMR, thus rendering antibiotic therapy ineffective while leading to the selection of novel drug‐resistant variants.

This article is categorized under:

Immune System Diseases > Genetics/Genomics/Epigenetics

Infectious Diseases > Environmental Factors

Metabolic Diseases > Environmental Factors
Automorphisms and strongly invariant relations
Authors: Börner Ferdinand , Goldstern Martin , Shelah Saharon
Published: August 2023

We investigate characterizations of the Galois connection $${{\,\textrm{Aut}\,}}$$

Aut

-$${{\,\textrm{sInv}\,}}$$

sInv

between sets of finitary relations on a base set A and their automorphisms. In particular, for $$A=\omega _1$$

A
=

ω
1

, we construct a countable set R of relations that is closed under all invariant operations on relations and under arbitrary intersections, but is not closed under $${\textrm{sInv Aut}}$$

sInv Aut

. Our structure (A, R) has an $$\omega $$
ω
-categorical first order theory. A higher order definable well-order makes it rigid, but any reduct to a finite language is homogeneous.
Homogenised governing equations for pre-stressed poroelastic composites
Authors: Miller Laura , Di Stefano Salvatore , Grillo Alfio , Penta Raimondo
Published: August 2023

We propose the governing equations for a pre-stressed poroelastic composite material. The structure that we investigate possesses a porous elastic matrix with embedded elastic subphases with an incompressible Newtonian fluid flowing in the pores. Both the matrix and individual subphases are assumed to be linear elastic and pre-stressed. We are able to apply the asymptotic homogenisation technique by exploiting the length-scale separation that exists between the porescale and the overall size of the material (the macroscale). We derive the novel macroscale model which describes a poroelastic composite material where the elastic phases possess a pre-stress. We extend the current literature for poroelastic composites by addressing the role of the pre-stresses in the functional form of the new system of derived partial differential equations and its coefficients. The latter are computed by solving appropriate periodic cell differential problems which encode the specific contribution related to the pre-stresses. The model in the first instance is derived in the most general scenario and then specified for a variety of particular cases which are associated with different macroscale behaviour of materials.
Alcohol and morality: one alcoholic drink is enough to make people declare to harm others and behave impurely
Authors: Paruzel-Czachura Mariola , Pypno Katarzyna , Sorokowski Piotr
Published: August 2023

We aimed to understand if alcohol intoxication affects the willingness to violate moral foundations (care, fairness, authority, loyalty, and purity). We conducted a laboratory study (N = 387) with three randomized groups: alcohol intoxication, placebo, and control, measuring the sacralization of moral foundations via the Moral Foundations Sacredness Scale. The study showed intoxicated participants sacralized moral foundations of care and purity more often than participants from control and placebo groups. It means participants declared more willing to physically harm other people and animals and behave impurely, e.g., doing deviant sexual behaviors or selling their souls. No differences related to fairness, authority, and loyalty were found. Our study helps to understand the decision processes underlying immoral behaviors, including crimes. We showed that even one drink makes people change their judgments about what is right and wrong (in the cases of harmful and impure behaviors), and because this kind of judgment precedes immoral behaviors, our results may help explain why some people under the influence of alcohol break the rules by doing things which they would never do when sober.
Functional gene composition and metabolic potential of deep-sea coral-associated microbial communities
Authors: Pratte Zoe A. , Stewart Frank J. , Kellogg Christina A.
Published: August 2023

Over the past decade, an abundance of 16S rRNA gene surveys have provided microbiologists with data regarding the prokaryotes present in a coral-associated microbial community. Functional gene studies that provide information regarding what those microbes might do are fewer, particularly for non-tropical corals. Using the GeoChip 5.0S microarray, we present a functional gene study of microbiomes from five species of cold-water corals collected from depths of 296–1567 m. These species included two octocorals, Acanthogorgia aspera and Acanthogorgia spissa, and three stony corals: Desmophyllum dianthus, Desmophyllum pertusum (formerly Lophelia pertusa), and Enallopsammia profunda. A total of 24,281 gene sequences (representing different microbial taxa) encoding for 383 functional gene families and representing 9 metabolic gene categories were identified. Gene categories included metabolism of carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus, and sulfur, as well as virulence, organic remediation, metal homeostasis, secondary metabolism and phylogeny. We found that microbiomes from Acanthogorgia spp. were the most functionally distinct but also least diverse compared against those from stony corals. Desmophyllum spp. microbiomes were more similar to each other than to E. profunda. Of 383 total gene families detected in this study, less than 20% were significantly different among these deep-water coral species. Similarly, out of 59 metabolic sub-categories for which we were able to make a direct comparison to microbiomes of tropical corals, only 7 were notably different: anaerobic ammonium oxidation (anammox), chitin degradation, and dimethylsulfoniopropionate (DMSP) degradation, all of which had higher representations in deep-water corals; and chromium homeostasis/resistance, copper homeostasis/resistance, antibiotic resistance, and methanogenesis, all of which had higher representation in tropical corals. This implies a broad-scale convergence of the microbial functional genes present within the coral holobiont, independent of coral species, depth, symbiont status, and morphology.
Separating Polynomial $$\chi $$-Boundedness from $$\chi $$-Boundedness
Authors: Briański Marcin , Davies James , Walczak Bartosz
Published: August 2023

Extending the idea from the recent paper by Carbonero, Hompe, Moore, and Spirkl, for every function $$f:\mathbb {N}\rightarrow \mathbb {N}\cup \{\infty \}$$

f
:
N
→
N
∪
{
∞
}

with $$f(1)=1$$

f
(
1
)
=
1

and $$f(n)\geqslant \left( {\begin{array}{c}3n+1\\ 3\end{array}}\right) $$

f

(
n
)

⩾

3
n
+
1

3

, we construct a hereditary class of graphs $${\mathcal {G}}$$
G
such that the maximum chromatic number of a graph in $${\mathcal {G}}$$
G
with clique number n is equal to f(n) for every $$n\in \mathbb {N}$$

n
∈
N

. In particular, we prove that there exist hereditary classes of graphs that are $$\chi $$
χ
-bounded but not polynomially $$\chi $$
χ
-bounded.
Influence of gender and sexual hormones on outcomes after pituitary surgery: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Theiler Sven , Hegetschweiler Saskia , Staartjes Victor E. , Spinello Antonio , Brandi Giovanna , Regli Luca , Serra Carlo
Published: August 2023

Background

Although there is an increasing body of evidence showing gender differences in various medical domains as well as presentation and biology of pituitary adenoma (PA), gender differences regarding outcome of patients who underwent transsphenoidal resection of PA are poorly understood. The aim of this study was to identify gender differences in PA surgery.

Methods

The PubMed/MEDLINE database was searched up to April 2023 to identify eligible articles. Quality appraisal and extraction were performed in duplicate.

Results

A total of 40 studies including 4989 patients were included in this systematic review and meta-analysis. Our analysis showed odds ratio of postoperative biochemical remission in males vs. females of 0.83 (95% CI 0.59–1.15,P = 0.26), odds ratio of gross total resection in male vs. female patients of 0.68 (95% CI 0.34–1.39,P = 0.30), odds ratio of postoperative diabetes insipidus in male vs. female patients of 0.40 (95% CI 0.26–0.64,P < 0.0001), and a mean difference of preoperative level of prolactin in male vs. female patients of 11.62 (95% CI − 119.04–142.27,P = 0.86).

Conclusions

There was a significantly higher rate of postoperative DI in female patients after endoscopic or microscopic transsphenoidal PA surgery, and although there was some data in isolated studies suggesting influence of gender on postoperative biochemical remission, rate of GTR, and preoperative prolactin levels, these findings could not be confirmed in this meta-analysis and demonstrated no statistically significant effect. Further research is needed and future studies concerning PA surgery should report their data by gender or sexual hormones and ideally further assess their impact on PA surgery.
Deep brain stimulation of globus pallidus internus and subthalamic nucleus in Parkinson’s disease: a multicenter, retrospective study of efficacy and safety
Authors: Mainardi Michele , Ciprietti Dario , Pilleri Manuela , Bonato Giulia , Weis Luca , Cianci Valeria , Biundo Roberta , Ferreri Florinda , Piacentino Massimo , Landi Andrea , Guerra Andrea , Antonini Angelo
Published: August 2023

Background

Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is an established therapeutic option in advanced Parkinson’s disease (PD). Literature data and recent guidelines remain inconclusive about the best choice as a target between the subthalamic nucleus (STN) and the globus pallidus internus (GPi).

Materials and methods

We retrospectively reviewed the clinical efficacy outcomes of 48 DBS-implanted patients (33 STN-DBS and 15 GPi-DBS) at a short- (<1 year from the surgery) and long-term (2–5 years) follow-up. Also, clinical safety outcomes, including postoperative surgical complications and severe side effects, were collected.

Results

We found no difference between STN-DBS and GPi-DBS in improving motor symptoms at short-term evaluation. However, STN-DBS achieved a more prominent reduction in oral therapy (l-dopa equivalent daily dose, P = .02). By contrast, GPi-DBS was superior in ameliorating motor fluctuations and dyskinesia (MDS-UPDRS IV, P < .001) as well as motor experiences of daily living (MDS-UPDRS II, P = .03). The greater efficacy of GPi-DBS on motor fluctuations and experiences of daily living was also present at the long-term follow-up. We observed five serious adverse events, including two suicides, all among STN-DBS patients.

Conclusion

Both STN-DBS and GPi-DBS are effective in improving motor symptoms severity and complications, but GPi-DBS has a greater impact on motor fluctuations and motor experiences of daily living. These results suggest that the two targets should be considered equivalent in motor efficacy, with GPi-DBS as a valuable option in patients with prominent motor complications. The occurrence of suicides in STN-treated patients claims further attention in target selection.
Video games for environmental awareness: the accessibility gap
Authors: Larreina-Morales María Eugenia , Gunella Chiara
Published: August 2023

Video games addressing environmental issues have the potential to raise awareness among players about the pressing ecological crisis and motivate them to take individual and collective action towards sustainability. For these games to generate change on a large scale, everyone should be able to play them. However, persons with disabilities often encounter accessibility barriers that prevent or hinder their access to these games. This paper aims to bridge the gap between environmental awareness and accessibility by analysing three video games: Plasticity, Alba: A Wildlife Adventure, and The Sims 4: Eco Lifestyle. First, their environmental themes are examined. Second, their accessibility features are listed and assessed using a mixed-methods tool that combines a quantitative checklist with a user qualitative evaluation. Results show that these three games are similar in their exploration and slow-paced mechanics but lack a specific focus on accessibility, particularly regarding visual, hearing, and haptic stimuli. This leads to a reduced gaming experience for some players, and complete unplayability for others, especially users in need of visual accessibility features. To improve the situation, accessibility should be co-created with users and implemented from the design stage of the game. Future research includes analysing a larger selection of games, directly involving players in the assessment of accessibility features, and reception research examining the impact of environmental awareness on players with and without disabilities. In short, to bridge the accessibility gap in environmental awareness, it is crucial to prioritise inclusivity in video games so that everyone can participate in creating a more sustainable world.
Efficient multiple-precision computation of the scaled complementary error function and the Dawson integral
Authors: Zaghloul Mofreh R.
Published: August 2023

We present algorithms to approximate the scaled complementary error function, $$\mathit{exp}\left({x}^{2}\right)erfc(x)$$

exp

x

2

e
r
f
c

(
x
)

, and the Dawson integral, $${e}^{{-x}^{2}}\underset{0}{\overset{x}{\int }}{e}^{{t}^{2}}dt$$

e

-
x

2

∫
x

0

e

t

2

d
t

, to the best accuracy in the standard single, double, and quadruple precision arithmetic. The algorithms are based on expansion in Chebyshev subinterval polynomial approximations together with expansion in terms of Taylor series and/or Laplace continued fraction. The present algorithms, implemented as Fortran elemental modules, have been benchmarked versus competitive algorithms available in the literature and versus functions built-in in modern Fortran compilers, in addition to comprehensive tables generated with variable precision computations using the Matlab™ symbolic toolbox. The present algorithm for calculating the scaled complementary error function showed an overall significant efficiency improvement (factors between 1.3 and 20 depending on the compiler and tested dataset) compared to the built-in function “Erfc_Scaled” in modern Fortran compilers, whereas the algorithm for calculating the Dawson integral is exceptional in calculating the function to 32 significant digits (compared to 19 significant digits reported in the literature) while being more efficient than competitive algorithms as well.
Emotions of the pandemic: phenomenological perspectives
Authors: Dolezal Luna , Ratcliffe Matthew
Published: August 2023

This article provides an introduction to the special issue “Emotions of the Pandemic: Phenomenological Perspectives”. We begin by outlining how phenomenological research can illuminate various forms of emotional experience associated with the exceptional circumstances of the COVID-19 pandemic. In addition, we propose that a consideration of pandemic experience, in all its complexity and diversity, has the potential to yield wider-ranging phenomenological insights. We go on to discuss the thirteen contributions that follow, identifying common themes and points of complementarity.
Renegotiating in good faith: How international treaty revisions can deepen cooperation
Authors: Castle Matthew A.
Published: August 2023

International agreements are often understood to help governments make credible commitments to future policy by limiting their ability to renege on their promises. Renegotiations of agreements are accordingly viewed as a threat to cooperation, since renegotiations call past commitments into question. But we know little about the frequency or nature of treaty renegotiations. When are international agreements renegotiated, and what effect does renegotiation have on international cooperation? Do most renegotiations indeed aim to backtrack on past commitments? Using the topical context of the trade regime, I collect new data on international treaty revisions, covering 310 preferential trade agreements signed since the year 2000. Around a quarter of these agreements have been amended in some form, and the supermajority of amendments result not in scaled back agreements, but in deeper commitments. Survival analysis shows that ‘like-minded’ countries with a shared language and similar voting patterns at the UN General Assembly are most likely to revise their commitments. In contrast, I do not find evidence to support the view of PTA revisions as ‘backsliding’ on past commitments. The effects of revisions on trade cooperation support the more cooperative view of revisions. An error-correction model shows revisions are associated with a long-run increase in export volumes. Renegotiations are not breakdowns in international relations, but opportunities for governments to renew their commitment to cooperation.