bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Advanced cobalt-based hierarchical and gradient armor catalysts for high-performance Li–S batteries over a wide temperature range
Authors: Li Yiding , Wang Siqi , Fu Yujun , Li Ruoan , Guo Han , Lv Chengtian , Yin Xiaoqiang , Yang Zhibo , Liu Dequan , He Deyan
Published: August 2024

Developing efficient and long-lasting cathode catalysts is crucial for preparing high-performance lithium–sulfur (Li–S) batteries.
A Ca3Sc2Si3O12:Ce3+,Cr3+,Li+ phosphor-in-glass film for high-power laser-driven near-infrared lighting
Authors: Sui Ping , Zhang Wei , Lin Hang , Wang Bo , Wang Pengfei , Lin Yi , Xu Ju , Cheng Yao , Wang Yuansheng
Published: August 2024

A Ca3Sc2Si3O12:Ce3+,Cr3+,Li+ phosphor-in-glass film with watt-level near-infrared light output upon blue laser-driven lighting shows potential application in night vision and non-destructive analysis and identification.
Instrumental Assessment of Aero-Resistive Expiratory Muscle Strength Rehabilitation Devices
Authors: Dietsch Angela M. , Krishnamurthy Rahul , Young Kelsey , Barlow Steven M.
Published: August 2024

Purpose:

Expiratory muscle strength training (EMST) is increasingly being used to treat voice, cough, and swallowing deficits in a wide range of conditions. However, a multitude of aero-resistive EMST models are commercially available, and the absence of side-by-side comparative data interferes with clinicians' ability to assess which model is best suited to a particular client's needs. The primary aim of this research was to test and compare the pressure and flow parameters of six currently available EMST models to help inform clinical decision making.

Method:

We identified and tested five devices of each of six different EMST models to generate benchmark data for minimum trigger pressures across settings. The reliability was tested within each device and between five devices of the same model across settings using coefficient of variation.

Results:

All six models required higher pressures to initiate flow at the highest setting compared to the lowest setting, as expected. Detailed descriptive statistics for each model/setting combination include average flow-triggering pressure for each model/setting and the variability across trials within a device and across devices of the same model. From these, ranked order of the least to most stable EMST model was derived.

Conclusions:

Systematic testing of several commercially available expiratory resistance training devices yielded clinical benchmarks and reliability data to aid clinicians in selecting an appropriate therapy device and regimen for a client based on their available airflow and air pressure as well as reliability of the device. These findings allow clinicians to directly compare key parameters across EMST devices.
Factors Related to Dizziness in Workers With Noise-Induced Hearing Loss in Brazil
Authors: Hillesheim Danúbia , Scharlach Renata Coelho , da Silva Eduarda Dandolini , Silva Bárbara Amaral , Zucki Fernanda
Published: August 2024

Objective:

The purpose of this study was to describe the factors related to dizziness in workers with noise-induced hearing loss in Brazil.

Method:

A cross-sectional study was carried out with a sample from noise-induced hearing loss reports (2007–2019). The dependent variable in this study was dizziness, and the independent variables were sociodemographic characteristics, comorbidities, symptoms, and noise characteristics in the work environment. Logistic regression analysis was performed.

Results:

A total of 3,824 individuals with noise-induced hearing loss in Brazil were analyzed. The prevalence of dizziness was 23.4% in the sample. Factors associated with dizziness were women (odds ratio [
OR
]: 2.10; 95% confidence interval [CI] [1.64, 2.69]), hypertension (
OR
: 1.68; 95% CI [1.38, 2.06]), headache (
OR
: 6.31; 95% CI [5.26, 7.57]), tinnitus (
OR
: 3.46; 95% CI [2.82, 4.25]), and continuous noise at the work environment (
OR
: 1.54; 95% CI [1.22, 1.94]).

Conclusions:

The factors associated with the outcome—dizziness—were gender (female), systemic arterial hypertension, headache, tinnitus, and continuous exposure to workplace noise. Such findings demonstrate the importance of promoting a multifactorial approach to understanding dizziness among workers exposed to occupational noise.
Prospective, in-activity and retrospective emotions in physical education: development and validation of three state achievement emotions questionnaires
Authors: Rebouillat Antoine , Pasco Denis , Roure Cédric
Published: August 2024

According to Pekrun et al. (2023), the construct of achievement emotions has been operationalized through three dimensions: (1) valence (i.e., pleasant/unpleasant emotions), (2) arousal (i.e., activating/deactivating emotions), and (3) temporal relation (i.e., prospective, in-activity and retrospective emotions). Based on these three dimensions, Pekrun et al. (2023) has proposed the taxonomy of achievement emotions as a 2 × 2 × 3 dimensional structure. To date, a robust questionnaire is still lacking to measure state achievement emotions in reference to the 2 × 2 × 3 Pekrun’s et al. (2023) model. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to develop three valid and reliable questionnaires measuring students’ prospective, in-activity and retrospective state achievement emotions in physical education. Four stages were followed: (1) based on a literature review on achievement emotions and a committee process validation, preliminary versions of the three questionnaires were built; (2) the factor structures and internal reliabilities were established in a first study with 1159 secondary school students; (3) the factor structures were confirmed by comparing confirmatory factor analyses and exploratory structural equation modeling in a second study with 1019 secondary school students; (4) internal and concurrent validities were assessed with 656 students. The stages followed for the development of the three questionnaires demonstrated strong support for their psychometric properties and factor structures.
Shifting from Theoretical Best Evidence to Practical Best Evidence:
an Approach to Overcome Structural Conservatism of Evidence-Based Medicine and
Health Policy
Authors: Pfaff Holger , Schmitt Jochen
Published: August 2024

There is disparity in the healthcare sector between the extent of innovation in
medical products (e. g., drugs) and healthcare structures. The reason is not a
lack of ideas, concepts, or (quasi-) experimental studies on structural
innovations. Instead, we argue that the slow implementation of structural
innovations has created this disparity partly because evidence-based medicine
(EBM) instruments are well suited to evaluate product innovations but less
suited to evaluate structural innovations. This article argues that the
unintentional interplay between EBM, which has changed significantly over time
to become primarily theoretical, on the one hand, and caution and inertia in
health policy, on the other, has resulted in structural conservatism. Structural
conservatism is present when healthcare structures persistently and essentially
resist innovation. We interpret this phenomenon as an unintended consequence of
deliberate EBM action. Therefore, we propose a new assessment framework to
respond to structural innovations in healthcare, centered on the differentiation
between the theoretical best (possible) evidence, the practical best (possible)
evidence, and the best available evidence.
Omega-3-Fettsäuren und Migräne – Grundlagen und Kasuistik
Authors: Schmiedel Volker
Published: August 2024

Migräne ist nicht nur, aber auch eine Entzündungskrankheit. Substanzen, die antientzündlich wirken,
müssten auch bei Migräne hilfreich sein. Migräne wird auch über den Serotoninstoffwechsel beeinflusst.
Gelänge es uns, auf natürliche Weise den Serotoninspiegel anzuheben, sollte sich dies auch auf
Migränefrequenz und -intensität auswirken. Nicht zuletzt können Omega-3-Fettsäuren zu einem Anstieg von
Endocannabinoiden führen. Belege für diese physiologischen Grundlagen einer erfolgreichen
Migräneprophylaxe werden im Beitrag ebenso aufgeführt wie klinische Studien zur Wirksamkeit sowie eine
eindrucksvolle Kasuistik.
1,2-Diaroyl Benzofurans: Synthesis and Photochromic Properties
Authors: Zhou Wang , Zhong Jianming , Li Shuangshuang , Wang Zhaoxin
Published: August 2024

A cascade reaction involving a base-promoted nucleophilic substitution reaction between diketones and α-bromoacetophenone derivatives and the subsequent selective condensation–cyclization was developed for the synthesis of 1,2-diaroyl benzofurans. 1,2-Diaroyl benzofurans with different functional groups and structures exhibit reversible photochromic behaviors in solution, solid state, and thin films with diverse colors, demonstrating a potential application in the field of optical functional materials.
Approach to Altered Mental Status in Pregnancy and Postpartum
Authors: Kroopnick Adam J. , Miller Eliza C.
Published: August 2024

The evaluation and diagnosis of altered mental status in the pregnant or postpartum patient largely parallels the approach used for any other patient; however, there are several critical differences including that some neuroobstetric diagnoses require emergent delivery of the fetus. Being familiar with the physiological changes and medical complications of pregnancy and delivery is therefore essential. This review first addresses pregnancy-specific disorders that may result in altered mental status, such as the hypertensive disorders of pregnancy and pregnancy-related metabolic and endocrinopathies. The focus then shifts to the complex physiologic changes in pregnancy and how these changes contribute to the distinct epidemiology of pregnancy-related cerebrovascular complications like intracranial hemorrhage, ischemic stroke, and reversible cerebral vasoconstriction syndrome. Medical disorders that are not unique to pregnancy, such as infections and autoimmune conditions, may present de novo or worsen during pregnancy and the peripartum period and require a thoughtful approach to diagnosis and management. Finally, the unique nervous system complications of obstetric anesthesia are explored. In each section, there is a focus not only on diagnosis and syndrome recognition but also on the emergent treatment needed to reverse these complications, bearing in mind the unique physiology of the pregnant patient.
AQP4-AS1 Can Regulate the Expression of Ferroptosis-Related Regulator ALOX15 through Competitive Binding with miR-4476 in Lung Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Du Lin , Xu Geng , Zhang Xiuqiang , Zhang Zhiwei , Yang Yang , Teng Hongsheng , Yang Tao
Published: August 2024

Background The AQP4-AS1/miR-4476-ALOX15 regulatory axis was discovered in previous studies. We aimed to investigate the regulatory mechanism of the ferroptosis-related regulator ALOX15 by AQP4-AS1 and miR-4476 in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) and find new targets for clinical treatment.

Methods After bioinformatics analysis, we contained one ferroptosis-related gene (FRG), namely ALOX15. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) and long noncoding RNAs were predicted by miRWalk. Furthermore, we constructed overexpressed LUAD cell lines. Real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction and western blot were used to determine the expression of mRNA and protein, respectively. Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) and EdU assay were used to detect the cell proliferation. Double luciferase assay was used to detect the binding relationship between AQP4-AS1 and miR-4464.

Results ALOX15 was the most significantly downregulated FRG compared with normal tissues. Furthermore, protein-protein interaction network analysis indicated that the AQP4-AS1-miR-4476-ALOX15 regulatory axis might be involved in the occurrence and development of LUAD and there might be direct interaction between AQP4-AS1 and miR-4476, and miR-4476 and ALOX15. Furthermore, AQP4-AS1 and ALOX15 were significantly downregulated in the LUAD tissue and cell lines, whereas miR-4476 showed the opposite results (p < 0.001). AQP4-AS1 overexpression improved the ALOX15 expression in LUAD cell lines. CCK-8 and EdU assay revealed that overexpression of AQP4-AS1 and ALOX15 inhibited the LUAD cell proliferation. Double luciferase assay results indicated that there was a combination between AQP4-AS1 and miRNA-4476. In addition, we found that overexpressed AQP4-AS1 activates the ferroptosis in LUAD cell lines.

Conclusions AQP4-AS1 can regulate the expression of ALOX15 through competitive binding with miR-4476, further activate ferroptosis and inhibit the proliferation of LUAD cells.
Analysis of electric repulsion on contacts of different molded case circuit breakers
Authors: Zhang Jie , Wang Bowang , Ye Mengjiao , Pi Xiaogang , Huang Yingbo
Published: August 2024

The electric repulsion between the movable contact and static contact of molded case circuit breakers (MCCBs) will directly affect the breaking speed of the movable contact, which in turn affects its breaking capacity. In order to improve the breaking speed of the movable contact and enhance the breaking capacity of the MCCBs, different MCCBs are proposed in this paper. The distribution characteristics of the electric repulsion between contacts corresponding to different MCCBs are obtained by simulation. The results show that the current density and magnetic flux density at the movable contact and static contact are small under different MCCBs. The closer to the contact-point, the greater the current density and magnetic flux density. When the current is 625 A, the electric repulsion and repulsive torque of the single contact-point contact in the series structure are 131.19% and 448.97% higher than the single contact-point contact in the parallel structure, respectively. Under the same current, the single contact-point contact in the series structure has the largest electric repulsion and repulsive torque, and the movable contact has the fastest movement speed and higher breaking capacity. This study can provide a reference for improving the breaking characteristics of MCCBs.
An extralimital Ixobrychus record from the Solomon Islands
Authors: de Beer Maxwell Robert , Limae Clement , Contador-Kelsall Isabella Chloe
Published: August 2024

Tetepare Island is managed for conservation and remains the largest uninhabited island in the South Pacific. An unidentified Ixobrychus bittern recorded on Tetepare in September 2023 may represent an undescribed species. This record highlights the importance of such islands for regional conservation, as well as the need for ongoing research.
Global, regional, and national burdens of HIV/AIDS acquired through sexual transmission 1990–2019: an observational study
Authors: Wu Xinsheng , Zhou Xinyi , Chen Yuanyi , Lin Yi-Fan , Li Yuwei , Fu Leiwen , Liu Qi , Zou Huachun
Published: August 2024

Background Sexual transmission accounts for a substantial proportion of HIV infections. Although some countries are experiencing an upward trend in HIV infections, there has been a lack of studies assessing the global burden of HIV/AIDS acquired through sexual transmission. We assessed the global, regional, and national burdens of HIV/AIDS acquired through sexual transmission from 1990 to 2019. Methods Data on deaths, years of life lost (YLLs), years lived with disability (YLDs), and disability-adjusted life years (DALY) of HIV/AIDS acquired through sexual transmission in 204 countries and territories from 1990 to 2019 were retrieved from the Global Burden of Disease Study (GBD) 2019. The burdens and trends were evaluated using the age-standardised rates (ASR) and estimated annual percentage change (EAPC). Results Globally, HIV/AIDS acquired through sexual transmission accounted for ~695.8 thousand (95% uncertainty interval 628.0–811.3) deaths, 33.0 million (28.7–39.9) YLLs, 3.4 million (2.4–4.6) YLDs, and 36.4 million (32.2–43.1) DALYs in 2019. In 2019, Southern sub-Saharan Africa (11350.94), Eastern sub-Saharan Africa (3530.91), and Western sub-Saharan Africa (2037.74) had the highest ASR of DALYs of HIV/AIDS acquired through sexual transmission per 100,000. In most regions of the world, the burden of HIV/AIDS acquired through sexual transmission has been increasing from 1990 to 2019, mainly in Oceania (EAPC 17.20, 95% confidence interval 12.82–21.75), South Asia (9.00, 3.94–14.30), and Eastern Europe (7.09, 6.35–7.84). Conclusions HIV/AIDS acquired through sexual transmission results in a major burden globally, regionally, and nationally.
Philosophical reflections on the future of construction grammar (or, confessions of a Radical Construction
Grammarian)
Authors: Croft William
Published: August 2024

Many issues face construction grammar today. I start with the role of usage in construction grammar, and trace the
changes in the usage-based model from mental storage to social interaction to evolution of populations of speakers and utterances.
Just as speech communities and linguistic categories can be described as evolving populations, so can the construction grammar
community and the theoretical concepts and formalisms that have evolved in it. Meaning remains the most challenging question for
the future. Meaning is human experience, incredibly rich, and I suggest that construction grammar move away from mental
representations to radical embodiment (existential phenomenology).
Physical properties of La-doped ZnO thin films prepared by spray pyrolysis technique
Authors: Alasmari Aeshah
Published: August 2024

In this research, La-doped ZnO thin films were produced using the spray pyrolysis method to study the influence of La concentration. The films were doped with La at different concentrations ranging from 1 to 5 weight percent (wt%). Various physical properties of the deposited films were examined using a variety of techniques. X-ray diffraction analysis indicated the presence of a hexagonal ZnO phase as the only crystalline phase in all deposited films. The crystallite size was calculated using Scherrer’s equation. Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) images revealed the formation of large grains exceeding the crystallite size, with the smallest grain size of 143.5 nm observed in the La-1 wt% film. Energy dispersive x-ray (EDX) analysis confirmed the existence of La in the deposited films. The optical band gap values were found to increase from 2.7 to 3.3 eV with increasing La content. Notably, a significant decrease in decay time was noted in UV sensing performance at La concentrations of 3 and 5 wt%.
Study for obtaining the exact solutions for the propagation of pulses in optical fibers
Authors: Akbulut Arzu , Razzaq Waseem , Tascan Filiz
Published: August 2024

In this study, the exact solutions for the propagation of pulses in optical fibers are obtained. Special values are given in the model used, and two nonlinear differential equations are obtained. Nonlinear equations are reduced to ordinary differential equations with the help of wave transformations. Then, the obtained differential equations are solved by two different methods, namely the modified simplest equation and the modified Kudryashov procedures. The solutions are given by hyperbolic, trigonometric and rational functions and the results are useful for optics, engineering and other related areas. Finally three-dimensional, contour and two-dimensional shapes are given for some solutions. These figures are important for understanding the motion of the wave. The given methods are applied to the equations for the first time. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, these results are new and have not been obtained in the literature. The results are useful for applied mathematics, physics and other related areas.
Pressure-induced structural, electronic, and superconducting phase transitions in TaSe3
Authors: Li 李 Yuhang 宇航 , Zhou 周 Pei 佩 , Ding 丁 Chi 驰 , Lu 鲁 Qing 清 , Wang 王 Xiaomeng 晓梦 , Sun 孙 Jian 建
Published: August 2024

TaSe3 has garnered significant research interests due to its unique quasi-one-dimensional crystal structure, which gives rise to distinctive properties. Using crystal structure search and first-principles calculations, we systematically investigated the pressure-induced structural and electronic phase transitions of quasi-one-dimensional TaSe3 up to 100 GPa. In addition to the ambient pressure phase (P21/m-I), we identified three high-pressure phases: P21/m-II, Pnma, and Pmma. For the P21/m-I phase, the inclusion of spin–orbit coupling (SOC) results in significant SOC splitting and changes in the band inversion characteristics. Furthermore, band structure calculations for the three high-pressure phases indicate metallic natures, and the electron localization function suggests ionic bonding between Ta and Se atoms. Our electron–phonon coupling calculations reveal a superconducting critical temperature of approximately 6.4 K for the Pmma phase at 100 GPa. This study provides valuable insights into the high-pressure electronic behavior of quasi-one-dimensional TaSe3.
Experimental warming affects soil carbon dynamics in boreal and temperate forests: a meta-analysis
Authors: Xu Shan , Ou Jie , Qiao Xinxin , Zeng Zhenzhong , Wang Junjian
Published: August 2024

Boreal and temperate forests, spanning cold mid- to high-latitude environments and encompassing about 43% of the global forest area, are highly vulnerable to warming. Understanding the response of soil carbon (C) dynamics in these forests to warming is of paramount importance, yet significant uncertainty remains. In this meta-analysis, data from 97 studies across 65 sites were synthesized to investigate the effects of warming on soil C inputs, pools, and outputs in boreal and temperate forests. Our results reveal that warming increased aboveground biomass (by 33%) and litterfall (by 15%), while decreasing litter mass remaining (by 7%), with no significant change observed in fine root biomass. Furthermore, warming led to a 9% increase in soil total respiration and a 15% increase in autotrophic respiration, yet had no discernible impact on soil organic carbon (SOC) content. The methods, magnitude, and duration of warming were found to regulate the responses of soil C dynamics. Buried heater warming elicited the most pronounced effects among warming methods. Additionally, soil total respiration exhibited an acclimation response to warming magnitude and duration, while litter decomposition rates increased and SOC content and microbial biomass C decreased with escalating warming magnitude. Moreover, greater soil respiration response occurred in temperate forests than in boreal forests. These findings underscore the nuanced and context-dependent nature of soil C dynamics in response to experimental warming, providing critical insights for understanding the role of boreal and temperate forests in future climate change mitigation strategies.
Heavy grazing reduces the potential for grassland restoration: a global meta-analysis
Authors: Mi Wentao , Ren Weibo , Chi Yuan , Zheng Hao , Fry Ellen , Yuan Feng , Liu Yaling
Published: August 2024

Soil seed banks are the main seed reservoirs globally and are critical for the regeneration of grassland plant populations. Grazing often affects the density and diversity of grassland soil seed banks; however, it is not clear how these effects vary on a global scale with grazing intensity, grazing duration, and climatic conditions. Here, we screened 92 independent published articles and performed a meta-analysis of the extracted data. The effects of grazing on four soil seed bank density and diversity indices were analyzed. Four alpha diversity indices, namely Shannon–Wiener, Margalef, Pielou, and Simpson indices, were selected in this study. The Shannon–Wiener index reflects the species complexity of the community. The Margalef index reflects species richness of the seed bank. The Pielou index reflects whether the number of seeds of all species in the seed bank is evenly distributed, and the Simpson’s index reflects the status of dominant plants in the seed bank. We found that grazing significantly decreased the total density of soil seed banks. Perennial plant seed banks were more affected by grazing than annual plant seed banks. Heavy grazing significantly decreased the Margalef index of seed banks, while moderate grazing significantly decreased the Simpson’s alpha diversity index. Long-term grazing (>10 years) had the greatest impact on Simpson’s alpha diversity index, while medium-term grazing (5–10 years) had a significant negative impact on Shannon–Wiener, Margalef, and Pielou indices. In addition, our results show that grazing has a greater effect on seed banks in arid areas than those in temperate areas. Knowledge of climate-specific effects will contribute to understanding the risk of local extinctions in grassland populations and help decision-makers maintain the health of grassland ecosystems.
Optimal CHSH values for regular polygon theories in generalized probabilistic theories
Authors: Takakura Ryo
Published: August 2024

In this study, we consider generalized probabilistic theories (GPTs) and focus on a class of theories called regular polygon theories, which can be regarded as natural generalizations of a two-level quantum system (a qubit system). In the usual CHSH setting for quantum theory, the CHSH value is known to be optimized by maximally entangled states. This research will reveal that the same observations are obtained also in regular polygon theories. Our result gives a physical meaning to the concept of ‘maximal entanglement’ in regular polygon theories.
The effect of chromium on the corrosive performance of novel high manganese steel frogs in a simulated industrial atmosphere
Authors: Li Yonglin , Lv Bo , Wang Yuefeng , Zhao Zhihui , Lin Meitong
Published: August 2024

The corrosion behavior of three novel high manganese steel frogs with different Cr contents in a simulated industrial corrosive atmospheric environment is studied through the corrosion weight gain, x-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and electrochemical testing. The results indicate that the content of Cr in the steel affects the phase composition, density, and electrochemical stability of the rust layer. For instance, as the Cr content increases, the content of the amorphous phase in the rust layer continuously increases while that of γ-FeOOH decreases, leading to enhanced density and electrochemical stability of the rust layer. The study reveals that Cr exists in the rust layer in the form of Cr2O3 and Cr(OH)3, providing nucleation cores to nanoscale colloidal rust particles. Consequently, a higher Cr content leads to more nucleation cores, which improves the density of the rust layer and enhances the corrosion resistance of the novel high manganese steel frogs in industrial corrosive atmospheric environments.
Performance of lightweight coconut shell concrete-filled circular steel tube columns under axial compression
Authors: Amala Sornam Ilanthalir , Dominic Jerlin Regin Joseph
Published: August 2024

The current study aimed to use coconut shell concrete, a structural lightweight concrete, as an infill material in concrete-filled steel tube (CFST) columns and test it under axial compression. Testing was done on eighteen short, intermediate and long coconut shell CFST columns and six normal-weight CFST short columns for comparison. For both types of columns, the axial load-displacement curves and modes of failure were examined. By varying the length-to-diameter and diameter-to-thickness ratios, the axial capacity of steel tubes filled with coconut shell concrete was assessed. The composite action was verified from the results of the confinement index, strength index and the contribution of the coconut shell concrete as infill concrete. Structural efficiency and energy absorption of the lightweight CFST column was contrasted with its counterpart column. The contribution of coconut shell concrete to the strength of the CFST column was the highest at 61.36% and more significant than that of normal-weight CFST columns. The coconut shell CFST columns were 23.63% lighter than the normal-weight columns, contributing to its higher structural efficiency. These columns also had 8.12% more energy absorption than normal-weight columns. Hence, the results of this investigation revealed that coconut shell concrete has the potential to be utilized in CFST columns. Further, compared to the experimental ultimate loads, the predictions made by the existing codes, EC4 and ANSI/AISC 360 are conservative.
XIV—Existence ‘in’ the Mind
Authors: Sethi Umrao
Published: August 2024

We often speak of an entity existing only in the mind, but what exactly do we mean when we speak this way? In this paper, I look at different accounts of what it is for something to exist in the mind. I argue that none of these accounts do justice to a specific set of cases involving sensory phenomena like after-images, phosphenes and hallucinations. When a subject experiences a green after-image, we may say that the greenness that the subject sees exists only in her mind, but if I am right, we have no good account of what this amounts to. I then offer a diagnosis for why standard accounts fail in the case of sensory experience, and outline a more promising approach.
Ultraviolet-induced controlled radical polymerization using titanium dioxide nanoparticles via the reversible addition–fragmentation chain transfer process
Authors: Zenke Shuji , Tanaka Tomonari
Published: August 2024

Herein, we report the ultraviolet (UV)-induced controlled radical polymerization facilitated by titanium dioxide nanoparticles and trithiocarbonate derivatives, serving as photocatalysts and chain transfer agents, respectively. The polymerization proceeded through a reversible addition–fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) process. The resulting polymers exhibited well-controlled molecular weights and relatively low polydispersity. Additionally, the chain extension reaction via UV-induced RAFT polymerization using titanium dioxide nanoparticles yielded higher molecular weight polymer products.
Kidney transplantation and gut microbiota
Authors: Chen Zehuan , Chang Xinhua , Ye Qianyu , Gao Yifang , Deng Ronghai
Published: August 2024

Kidney transplantation is an effective way to improve the condition of patients with end-stage renal disease. However, maintaining long-term graft function and improving patient survival remain a key challenge after kidney transplantation. Dysbiosis of intestinal flora has been reported to be associated with complications in renal transplant recipients. The commensal microbiota plays an important role in the immunomodulation of the transplant recipient responses. However, several processes, such as the use of perioperative antibiotics and high-dose immunosuppressants in renal transplant recipients, can lead to gut dysbiosis and disrupt the interaction between the microbiota and the host immune responses, which in turn can lead to complications such as infection and rejection in organ recipients. In this review, we summarize and discuss the changes in intestinal flora and their influencing factors in patients after renal transplantation as well as the evidence related to the impact of intestinal dysbiosis on the prognosis of renal transplantation from in vivo and clinical studies, and conclude with a discussion of the use of microbial therapy in the transplant population. Hopefully, a deeper understanding of the function and composition of the microbiota in patients after renal transplantation may assist in the development of clinical strategies to restore a normal microbiota and facilitate the clinical management of grafts in the future.
Effects of SGLT2 inhibitors on parameters of renal venous congestion in intrarenal Doppler ultrasonography
Authors: Wallbach Manuel , Ajrab Jamil , Bayram Bilgin , Pieper Dennis , Schäfer Ann-Kathrin , Lüders Stephan , Delistefani Fani , Müller Dieter , Koziolek Michael
Published: August 2024

Background

Cardiorenal syndrome is a common condition in clinical practice in which renal venous congestion (VC) plays an important role. Intrarenal Doppler ultrasound (IRD) is a non-invasive method to assess and quantify renal VC. The current study aims to investigate the effects of SGLT2 inhibitor (SGLT2i) therapy on IRD parameters of renal VC.

Methods

This prospective observational study included patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) with or without type 2 diabetes mellitus and/or heart failure (HF) with reduced and preserved ejection fraction who had an indication for standard of care SGLT2i therapy. IRD, assessing venous impedance index (VII), and intrarenal venous flow pattern (IRVF) analysis were performed within the interlobar vessels of the right kidney before and 6 months after initiation of SGLT2i therapy.

Results

A number of 64 patients with CKD and a cardiorenal risk profile were included (mean eGFR 42.9 ml/min/1.73 m2; 56% with HF, and 38% with type 2 diabetes mellitus). 17 patients exhibited signs of VC in the IRD. VII was significantly correlated with levels of NT-proBNP, female gender, NYHA class, and was significantly negative correlated with body mass index. After 6 months, a notable decrease in the mean VII of the right interlobar veins by 0.13 (P < .01) was observed. Stratification according to IRVF pattern showed a significant shift towards reduced renal VC pattern after 6 months (P = .03).

Conclusions

In this study, SGLT2i therapy resulted in a reduction in renal VC as assessed by IRD. These findings underscore the potential haemodynamic benefits of SGLT2 inhibitors in cardiorenal syndrome and warrant further investigation into their clinical implications.
Constrictive pericarditis requiring pericardiectomy: an unusual first presentation of extra-articular rheumatoid arthritis—a case report
Authors: Egwu Chinelo , Scullion Malo , Gingles Christopher , Kerrigan Sean
Published: August 2024

Background

We report an unusual case of rheumatoid arthritis presenting for the first time with pericardial constriction and bilateral pleural calcification, in the absence of prior articular disease.

Case summary

A 46-year-old Caucasian male, who initially presented with shortness of breath, intermittent chest tightness and general malaise, underwent extensive diagnostic workup over a period of six months involving multiple hospital admissions. He was found to have pericardial constriction on echocardiogram and ultimately required surgical pericardiectomy due to decompensation. After multiple diagnostic tests and specialist opinion, the aetiology of pericardial disease was ultimately confirmed to be extra-articular rheumatoid disease without synovitis.

Discussion

Significant pericardial constriction can occur as the initial presentation of rheumatoid disease and anti-CCP is a highly specific confirmatory test. Pericardial pathological specimen can be unhelpful in determining this aetiology, and constrictive physiology can occur due to chronic inflammation/fibrosis in the absence of significant calcification.
Escherichia coli in urban marine sediments: interpreting virulence, biofilm formation, halotolerance, and antibiotic resistance to infer contamination or naturalization
Authors: Erb Isabel K , Suarez Carolina , Frank Ellinor M , Bengtsson-Palme Johan , Lindberg Elisabet , Paul Catherine J
Published: August 2024

Marine sediments have been suggested as a reservoir for pathogenic bacteria, including Escherichia coli. The origins, and properties promoting survival of E. coli in marine sediments (including osmotolerance, biofilm formation capacity, and antibiotic resistance), have not been well-characterized. Phenotypes and genotypes of 37 E. coli isolates from coastal marine sediments were characterized. The isolates were diverse: 30 sequence types were identified that have been previously documented in humans, livestock, and other animals. Virulence genes were found in all isolates, with more virulence genes found in isolates sampled from sediment closer to the effluent discharge point of a wastewater treatment plant. Antibiotic resistance was demonstrated phenotypically for one isolate, which also carried tetracycline resistance genes on a plasmid. Biofilm formation capacity varied for the different isolates, with most biofilm formed by phylogroup B1 isolates. All isolates were halotolerant, growing at 3.5% NaCl. This suggests that the properties of some isolates may facilitate survival in marine environments and can explain in part how marine sediments can be a reservoir for pathogenic E. coli. As disturbance of sediment could resuspend bacteria, this should be considered as a potential contributor to compromised bathing water quality at nearby beaches.
Disentangling cobionts and contamination in long-read genomic data using sequence composition
Authors: Weber Claudia C
Published: August 2024

The recent acceleration in genome sequencing targeting previously unexplored parts of the tree of life presents computational challenges. Samples collected from the wild often contain sequences from several organisms, including the target, its cobionts, and contaminants. Effective methods are therefore needed to separate sequences. Though advances in sequencing technology make this task easier, it remains difficult to taxonomically assign sequences from eukaryotic taxa that are not well represented in databases. Therefore, reference-based methods alone are insufficient. Here, I examine how we can take advantage of differences in sequence composition between organisms to identify symbionts, parasites, and contaminants in samples, with minimal reliance on reference data. To this end, I explore data from the Darwin Tree of Life project, including hundreds of high-quality HiFi read sets from insects. Visualizing two-dimensional representations of read tetranucleotide composition learned by a variational autoencoder can reveal distinct components of a sample. Annotating the embeddings with additional information, such as coding density, estimated coverage, or taxonomic labels allows rapid assessment of the contents of a dataset. The approach scales to millions of sequences, making it possible to explore unassembled read sets, even for large genomes. Combined with interactive visualization tools, it allows a large fraction of cobionts reported by reference-based screening to be identified. Crucially, it also facilitates retrieving genomes for which suitable reference data are absent.
Genome-wide Studies Reveal Genetic Risk Factors for Hepatic Fat Content
Authors: Li Yanni , van den Berg Eline H , Kurilshikov Alexander , Zhernakova Dasha V , Gacesa Ranko , Hu Shixian , Lopera-Maya Esteban A , Zhernakova Alexandra ,   Lifelines Cohort Study, Aguirre-Gamboa Raul , Deelen Patrick , Franke Lude , Kuivenhoven Jan A , Lopera-Maya Esteban A , Nolte Ilja M , Sanna Serena , Snieder Harold , Swertz Morris A , Visscher Peter M , Vonk Judith M , Wijmenga Cisca , de Meijer Vincent E , Sanna Serena , Dullaart Robin P F , Blokzijl Hans , Festen Eleonora A M , Fu Jingyuan , Weersma Rinse K
Published: August 2024

Genetic susceptibility to metabolic associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) is complex and poorly characterized. Accurate characterization of the genetic background of hepatic fat content would provide insights into disease etiology and causality of risk factors. We performed genome-wide association study (GWAS) on two noninvasive definitions of hepatic fat content: magnetic resonance imaging proton density fat fraction (MRI-PDFF) in 16,050 participants and fatty liver index (FLI) in 388,701 participants from the United Kingdom (UK) Biobank (UKBB). Heritability, genetic overlap, and similarity between hepatic fat content phenotypes were analyzed, and replicated in 10,398 participants from the University Medical Center Groningen (UMCG) Genetics Lifelines Initiative (UGLI). Meta-analysis of GWASs of MRI-PDFF in UKBB revealed five statistically significant loci, including two novel genomic loci harboring CREB3L1 (rs72910057-T, P = 5.40E−09) and GCM1 (rs1491489378-T, P = 3.16E−09), respectively, as well as three previously reported loci: PNPLA3, TM6SF2, and APOE. GWAS of FLI in UKBB identified 196 genome-wide significant loci, of which 49 were replicated in UGLI, with top signals in ZPR1 (P = 3.35E−13) and FTO (P = 2.11E−09). Statistically significant genetic correlation (rg) between MRI-PDFF (UKBB) and FLI (UGLI) GWAS results was found (rg = 0.5276, P = 1.45E−03). Novel MRI-PDFF genetic signals (CREB3L1 and GCM1) were replicated in the FLI GWAS. We identified two novel genes for MRI-PDFF and 49 replicable loci for FLI. Despite a difference in hepatic fat content assessment between MRI-PDFF and FLI, a substantial similar genetic architecture was found. FLI is identified as an easy and reliable approach to study hepatic fat content at the population level.
Improved theoretical guarantee for rank aggregation via spectral method
Authors: Samuel Zhong Ziliang , Ling Shuyang
Published: August 2024

Given pairwise comparisons between multiple items, how to rank them so that the ranking matches the observations? This problem, known as rank aggregation, has found many applications in sports, recommendation systems and other web applications. We focus on the ranking problem under the Erdös–Rényi outliers model: only a subset of pairwise comparisons is observed, being either clean or corrupted copies of the true score differences. We investigate the spectral ranking algorithms that are based on unnormalized and normalized data matrices. The key is to understand their performance in recovering the underlying scores of each item from the observed data. This reduces to deriving an entry-wise perturbation error bound between the top eigenvectors of the unnormalized/normalized data matrix and its population counterpart. By using the leave-one-out technique, we provide a sharper $\ell _{\infty }$-norm perturbation bound of the eigenvectors and derive an error bound on the maximum displacement for each item, with only $O(n\log n)$ samples. In addition, we also derive the sample complexity to perform top-$K$ ranking under mild assumptions. Our theoretical analysis improves upon the state-of-the-art results in terms of sample complexity, and our numerical experiments confirm these theoretical findings.
Serial Fluorodeoxyglucose Positron Emission Tomography-Computed Tomography (18FDG-PET-CT) in Assessing Treatment Response in Chronic Pulmonary Aspergillosis
Authors: Sehgal Inderpaul Singh , Arora Kajal , Agarwal Ritesh , Kumar Rajender , Rana Nivedita , Dhooria Sahajal , Muthu Valliappan , Prasad Kuruswamy Thurai , Garg Mandeep , Rudramurthy Shivaprakash M , Aggarwal Ashutosh Nath , Chakrabarti Arunaloke
Published: August 2024

Background

The role of 2-deoxy-2-18(F) fluoro-D-glucose (FDG) positron emission tomography (PET)-computed tomography (CT) in assessing treatment response in chronic pulmonary aspergillosis (CPA) remains to be determined. The study objective was to compare FDG-PET/CT parameters in persons with CPA achieving treatment success or failure after 6 months of oral itraconazole.

Methods

We performed PET-CT at baseline and after 6 months of oral itraconazole therapy. FDG uptake similar to the background uptake or ≥13 units decline in Z-score was considered a complete metabolic response (CMR). A >25%, >30%, and > 45% decline in standardised uptake value (SUVmax), SUVpeak, and total glycolytic activity (TLG) was labelled as a partial metabolic response (PMR). A >30%, >30%, or >75% increase in the SUVmax, SUVpeak, and TLG represented progressive metabolic disease.

Results

We included 94 persons with CPA (63 male) with a mean age of 46.2 years. A follow-up PET-CT was performed on 77 participants. We recorded treatment success and failure in 43 and 34 patients. CMR was seen in 18.6% of those with treatment success and none with treatment failure. A higher proportion of patients with treatment success achieved PMR; 19% of the patients with treatment success had progressive metabolic disease.

Conclusions

Most PET-CT parameters improved with treatment; however, PET-CT misclassified one-fifth of the participants.
On some computational properties of open sets
Authors: Normann Dag , Sanders Sam
Published: August 2024

Open sets are central to mathematics, especially analysis and topology, in ways few notions are. In most, if not all, computational approaches to mathematics, open sets are only studied indirectly via their ‘codes’ or ‘representations’. In this paper, we study how hard it is to compute, given an arbitrary open set of reals, the most common representation, i.e. a countable set of open intervals. We work in Kleene’s higher order computability theory, in particular its equivalent lambda calculus formulation due to Platek. We establish many computational equivalences between on one hand the ‘structure’ functional that converts open sets to the aforementioned representation, and on the other hand functionals arising from mainstream mathematics, like basic properties of semi-continuous functions, the Urysohn lemma and the Tietze extension theorem. We also compare these functionals with known operations on regulated and bounded variation functions, and the Lebesgue measure restricted to closed sets. We obtain a number of natural computational equivalences for the latter involving theorems from mainstream mathematics.
Effect of the cyano group in the HAVA mechanism for PAHs formation: a reaction force analysis for the reaction between benzonitrile (C6H5CN) and vinylacetylene
Authors: Misad Saide Alessandra C , Gutiérrez-Oliva Soledad
Published: August 2024

Due to the importance and fascination that arises from processes involving Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbon (PAHs) in the interstellar medium (ISM), in this work quantum calculations were used to study the HAVA mechanism (Hydrogen Abstraction Vinylacetylene Addition) involved in the PAHs formation from the benzonitrile (${\rm C_6H_5CN}$), molecule recently discovered in the ISM, and vinylacetylene (${\rm C_4H_4}$). The reaction force analysis was used to obtain information about the mechanisms in terms of structural and electronic rearrangements presents in the formation of naphthalene, 1-naphthonitrile, 2-naphthonitrile, and 3-ethynylisoquinoline. Due to the presence of the cyano group on the aromatic ring for the formation of 1-naphthonitrile and 2-naphthonitrile, these reactions: (a) follow the HAVA mechanism, showing the same structural nature of the submerged energy barriers and (b) result consistent with the fact that both molecules have recently been found in TMC-1, where benzonitrile and vinylacetylene are also present. The mesomeric and inductive effect of the cyano group on the aromatic ring contributes to lowering the energy barrier when the radical is in the ortho position on the aromatic ring with respect to the cyano group. This decrease contributes greatly to the work of electronic reordering. Although the formation of 3-ethynylisoquinoline (N-Heterocycle) does not follow the HAVA mechanism and involves positive barriers at the conditions of TMC-1, important astrochemical and astrobiological implications can be derived from this result, since N-containing heterocycles, have been detected in carbonaceous chondrites would be providing interesting connection between chemistry in space and the origin of life on Earth.