bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Serine protease inhibitor Kazal type 1 (SPINK1) promotes proliferation, migration, invasion and radiation resistance in rectal cancer patients receiving concurrent chemoradiotherapy: a potential target for precision medicine
Authors: Chen Yi-Ting , Tseng Tzu-Ting , Tsai Hung-Pei , Kuo Shih-Hsun , Huang Ming-Yii , Wang Jaw-Yuan , Chai Chee-Yin
Published: September 2022

Serine peptidase inhibitor Kazal type-1 (SPINK1), a trypsin kinase inhibitor, is known to be associated with inflammation and pathogenesis. The aim in this study was to demonstrate the clinicopathological role and progression of SPINK1 in rectal cancer (RC) patients undergoing concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CCRT). Immunohistochemical staining for SPINK1 protein expression in 111 RC cases revealed high SPINK1 expression was significantly associated with perineural invasion and poor CCRT response in pre-CCRT specimens. In addition, multivariable analyses showed that pre-CCRT SPINK1 expression was a significant prognostic marker of both overall and disease-free survival in RC patients receiving pre-operative CCRT; furthermore, in vitro studies demonstrated SPINK1 interacted with EGFR to promote the abilities of proliferation, migration and invasion attenuated by SPINK1 si-RNA via ERK, p38, and JNK pathways. SPINK1 was also found to regulate radio-resistance in CRC cell lines. In conclusion, SPINK1 expression is an independent prognostic marker in patients receiving pre-operative CCRT, and SPINK1 regulates proliferation, migration and invasion via EGFR-downstream ERK, p38 and JNK pathways. The phenotypes of radiosensitivity that could be reversed with attenuation of SPINK1 levels suggest that targeting SPINK1 might offer a strategy for optimal precision medicine.
A preliminary experimental investigation on the biotribocorrosion of a metal-on-polyethylene hip prosthesis in a hip simulator
Authors: Yang Shu , Pu Jian , Zhang Xiaogang , Zhang Yali , Cui Wen , Xie Fengbao , Lu Weiping , Tan Qin , Jin Zhongmin
Published: September 2022

Corrosion at the taper/trunnion interface of total hip replacement (THR) often results in severe complications. However, the underlying mechanisms of biotribocorrosion at the taper/trunnion interface during the long-term walking gait cycles remain to be fully understood. In this study, a hip joint simulator was therefore instrumented with an electrochemical cell for in-situ monitoring of the tribocorrosion evolution in a metal-on-polyethylene (MoP) THR during a typical long-term walking gait. In addition, the biotribocorrosion mechanism was investigated via surface and chemical characterizations. The experimental results confirmed that the taper/trunnion interface dominated the contemporary MoP hip joint corrosion. Three cyclic variations in the open circuit potential (OCP) were observed throughout the long-term electrochemical measurements, attributed to the formation and disruption of the adsorbed protein layer. The corrosion exhibited an initial increase at each period, peaking at approximately 0.125 million cycles, followed by a subsequent gradual reduction. Surface and chemical analyses revealed the formation of a tribochemical reaction layer (tribolayer) on the worn surface of the taper/trunnion interface. The surface/chemical characterizations and the electrochemical measurements indicated that the adhesion force of the adsorbed protein layer was weaker than that of the tribolayer. In contrast, the opposite was true for the corrosion resistance. Based on the observations from this study, the tribocorrosion mechanism of the taper/trunnion interface under the long-term walking gait cycles is deduced.
Effects of lasers on titanium dental implant surfaces: a narrative review
Authors: Fenelon Thomas , Bakr Mahmoud , Walsh Laurence J. , George Roy
Published: September 2022

Despite the many treatment modalities offered to prevent or manage peri-implantitis, there is currently a lack of high-quality evidence that supports any approach being regarded as a gold standard. Given that methods such as hand scaling with metal instruments and ultrasonic scaling may damage the implant surfaces, it is important to identify methods that are inherently safe for the surface being treated, and this is where interest in the use of lasers as alternative or adjunctive methods has arisen. This article provides a summary of the different types of lasers that can be used for the management and prevention of peri-implantitis. It also presents novel results from our research team related to the profile and surface characteristics of implants after treatment with different laser types and using different laser parameters. This review looks at the factors that should be considered when using lasers for the management or prevention of peri-implantitis. In conclusion, it is extremely difficult to formulate a reliable comparison between the available studies in the literature due to the high variability in laser types, settings and techniques used in each study. The review highlights the need for standardised studies in this field in order to provide recommendations to clinicians that would allow a more predictable treatment outcome.
Schilddrüse und SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Zettinig Georg
Published: September 2022

Es gibt verschiedene Wechselwirkungen zwischen einer SARS-CoV-2-Infektion und der Schilddrüse, bidirektional in beide Richtungen: Bei einer schweren COVID-19-Infektion sind Veränderungen der Schilddrüsenhormonspiegel ein Marker für eine schlechtere Prognose. SARS-CoV‑2 scheint sowohl direkt mit Thyreozyten zu interagieren als auch das Immunsystem zu modulieren und Immunthyreopathien triggern zu können. Bereits 2020 wurde die „SARS-CoV-2-assoziierte Thyreoiditis“ bei Patienten mit COVID-19 beschrieben, die ähnlich einer subakuten Thyreoiditis verläuft, allerdings typischerweise schmerzlos. Es gibt inzwischen verschiedenste Berichte über das Auftreten einer chronischen Immunthyreoiditis und eines Morbus Basedow sowohl nach Virusinfektion als auch nach Impfung. Eine bestehende Schilddrüsenerkrankung scheint weder mit einem höheren Risiko für eine SARS-CoV-2-Infektion noch mit einem schwereren Krankheitsverlauf assoziiert zu sein. In der vorliegenden Arbeit wird der derzeitige Wissensstand bezüglich Schilddrüse und SARS-CoV‑2 zusammengefasst.
A review of the components of exercise prescription for sarcopenic older adults
Authors: Kumar Prabal , Umakanth Shashikiran , Girish N.
Published: September 2022

Purpose

To synthesize the details of the exercises/exercise program prescribed for the improvement of muscle mass/muscle strength/physical performance among sarcopenic older adults.

Methods

A systematic literature search was conducted in five electronic databases and the details of exercises such as single component or multicomponent exercise program, frequency/week, intensity, duration of the exercise program, type of exercises, progression, adverse events reported, outcome measures used, and whether technology or other educational aids were used to deliver the program were extracted.

Results

A total of 10,045 records were identified and 27 records were included. Resistance exercises were included in all the studies, with the frequency ranging from 1 to 5/week, intensity ranging from 20 to 80% of 1 repetition maximum (RM), or 6–14 points on ratings of perceived exertion (RPE), and duration per session ranging from 20 to 75 min. The intensity of aerobic exercises ranged from 50 to 70% of heart rate max or a level of 7–17 in RPE with a duration ranging from 6 to 30 min per session for 2–5 days/week. For balance exercises, the intensity was mentioned as the level of effort 3 on a scale of 10, and the time duration per session ranged from 5 to 30 min for a frequency of 2/3 per week.

Conclusion

This review synthesized the components of exercise prescription for sarcopenic older adults which would help practitioners and researchers in selecting the frequency, intensity, duration, type, mode, and progression while prescribing exercises.
Some developments around the Katznelson–Tzafriri theorem
Authors: Batty Charles , Seifert David
Published: September 2022

This paper is a survey article on developments arising from a theorem proved by Katznelson and Tzafriri in 1986 showing that$${\rm lim}_{n \rightarrow \infty} ||T^{n}(I-T)|| = 0$$limn→∞||Tn(I-T)||=0ifTis a power-bounded operator on a Banach space and$$\sigma (T)\cap \mathbb{T} \subseteq\{1\}$$σ(T)∩T⊆{1}. Many variations and consequences of the original theorem have been proved subsequently, and we provide an account of this branch of operator theory.
Entries of the inverses of large positive definite Toeplitz matrices
Authors: Böttcher Albrecht
Published: September 2022

This is an expository paper embarking on the asymptotic behavior
of the entries of the inverses of positive definite symmetric Toeplitz
matrices as the matrix dimension goes to infinity. We consider the behavior
of the entries in neighborhoods of the four corners as well as the
density of the distribution of the entries over all of the inverse matrix.
Capacity and the quasicentral modulus
Authors: Voiculescu Dan-Virgil
Published: September 2022

We point out that the quasicentral modulus is a noncommutative analogue of a nonlinear rearrangement invariant Sobolev condenser capacity. In the case of the shifts by the generators of a finitely generated group, the quasicentral modulus coincides with a corresponding nonlinear condenser capacity on the Cayley graph of the group. Some other capacities related to the quasicentral modulus are also discussed.
Log-normalization constant estimation using the ensemble Kalman–Bucy filter with application to high-dimensional models
Authors: Crisan Dan , Del Moral Pierre , Jasra Ajay , Ruzayqat Hamza
Published: September 2022

In this article we consider the estimation of the log-normalization constant associated to a class of continuous-time filtering models. In particular, we consider ensemble Kalman–Bucy filter estimates based upon several nonlinear Kalman–Bucy diffusions. Using new conditional bias results for the mean of the aforementioned methods, we analyze the empirical log-scale normalization constants in terms of their
$\mathbb{L}_n$
-errors and
$\mathbb{L}_n$
-conditional bias. Depending on the type of nonlinear Kalman–Bucy diffusion, we show that these are bounded above by terms such as
$\mathsf{C}(n)\left[t^{1/2}/N^{1/2} + t/N\right]$
or
$\mathsf{C}(n)/N^{1/2}$
(
$\mathbb{L}_n$
-errors) and
$\mathsf{C}(n)\left[t+t^{1/2}\right]/N$
or
$\mathsf{C}(n)/N$
(
$\mathbb{L}_n$
-conditional bias), where t is the time horizon, N is the ensemble size, and
$\mathsf{C}(n)$
is a constant that depends only on n, not on N or t. Finally, we use these results for online static parameter estimation for the above filtering models and implement the methodology for both linear and nonlinear models.
Matrix calculations for moments of Markov processes
Authors: Daw Andrew , Pender Jamol
Published: September 2022

Matryoshka dolls, the traditional Russian nesting figurines, are known worldwide for each doll’s encapsulation of a sequence of smaller dolls. In this paper, we exploit the structure of a new sequence of nested matrices we callmatryoshkan matricesin order to compute the moments of the one-dimensional polynomial processes, a large class of Markov processes. We characterize the salient properties of matryoshkan matrices that allow us to compute these moments in closed form at a specific time without computing the entire path of the process. This simplifies the computation of the polynomial process moments significantly. Through our method, we derive explicit expressions for both transient and steady-state moments of this class of Markov processes. We demonstrate the applicability of this method through explicit examples such as shot noise processes, growth–collapse processes, ephemerally self-exciting processes, and affine stochastic differential equations from the finance literature. We also show that we can derive explicit expressions for the self-exciting Hawkes process, for which finding closed-form moment expressions has been an open problem since their introduction in 1971. In general, our techniques can be used for any Markov process for which the infinitesimal generator of an arbitrary polynomial is itself a polynomial of equal or lower order.
Jetting and migration of a laser-induced cavitation bubble in a rectangular channel
Authors: Brujan Emil-Alexandru , Zhang A.-M. , Liu Yun-Long , Ogasawara Toshiyuki , Takahira Hiroyuki
Published: September 2022

The jetting behaviour and migratory characteristics of a laser-induced cavitation bubble in a rectangular channel are investigated both experimentally and numerically, for various combinations of the geometric and physical parameters of the system. High-speed photography is used to visualize the temporal development of the bubble shape, the formation of liquid jets during bubble collapse, and the bubble displacement in contact with the sidewalls of the channel during two oscillation cycles of the bubble. The bubble profiles, pressure contours and velocity vectors ambient to the bubble are obtained through numerical simulation results by using an Eulerian finite element method with a compressible liquid impact model. The jetting behaviour of the bubble varies between single jet formation and the formation of three liquid jets directed towards each wall of the channel. The numerical calculations indicate that the liquid jets directed towards the sidewalls of the channel reach maximum velocities of 100 m s−1while the peak velocity of the liquid jet directed towards the channel endwall is about 55 m s−1. A small bubble generated close to a sidewall of the channel develops only a single inclined jet during collapse. Such jets can reach velocities of up to 110 m s−1. A bubble displacement in contact with the sidewalls of the channels of 350 μm was observed during the first two oscillation cycles for a bubble with a maximum diameter slightly smaller than the height of the channel. The results of our investigations are compared to previous results obtained in similar configurations.
Variability in the vertical temperature profile within crevasses at an alpine glacier
Authors: Purdie Heather , Zawar-Reza Peyman , Katurji Marwan , Schumacher Benjamin , Kerr Tim , Bealing Paul
Published: September 2022

Tasman Glacier, a temperate maritime glacier in the New Zealand Southern Alps, is rapidly receding. Climate warming is resulting in lengthening of the ablation season, meaning crevasses in the accumulation area are becoming exposed at the surface for longer. We combine measurements of air temperature and wind speed from inside crevasses with surface meteorological data, finding that during summer, in-crevasse air temperature is frequently positive, and can at times exceed surface air temperature. Greatest warming occurred in the widest crevasses during clear-sky conditions, but full depth warming of crevasses also occurred at night. Net shortwave radiation contributes to heating of air in the upper regions of crevasses, but turbulent sensible heat transfer was responsible for driving warm air deeper into crevasses. Crevasses orientated to maximise radiation retrieval, and running parallel to wind flow, have the greatest potential for warming and heat storage. We hypothesise a positive feedback loop in the surface energy-balance system, where crevasses entrain and trap heat, which enhances melting, that in turn enlarges the crevasses, enabling greater heat storage and further melting. Energy-balance models that treat accumulation areas of alpine glaciers as homogeneous surfaces will therefore underestimate snow melt and overestimate mass balance.
Latitudinal influences on bryozoan calcification through the Paleozoic
Authors: Reid Catherine M. , Wyse Jackson Patrick N. , Key Marcus M.
Published: September 2022

Bryozoans are active non-phototrophic biomineralizers that precipitate their calcareous skeletons in seawater. Carbonate saturation states varied temporally and spatially in Paleozoic oceans, and we used the Bryozoan Skeletal Index (BSI) to investigate whether bryozoan calcification was controlled by seawater chemistry in Paleozoic trepostome and cryptostome bryozoans. Our results show that cryptostome bryozoan genera were influenced by ocean chemistry throughout the Paleozoic and precipitated the most calcite at lower latitudes, where carbonate saturation states are generally higher, and less in midlatitudes, where carbonate will be relatively undersaturated. Trepostome bryozoan genera show a similar but weaker trend for the Ordovician to Devonian, suggesting that, like the cryptostomes, they were unable to metabolically overcome falling saturation states and simply precipitated less robust skeletons at higher latitudes. Carboniferous to Triassic trepostomes differ, however, and show a trend toward increased calcification at higher latitudes, indicating an ability to overcome unfavorable carbonate saturation states. Analysis of Permian trepostomes at the species level indicates this is most pronounced in the Southern Hemisphere, where calcification is matched by increased feeding capacity. It is proposed that this increased feeding capacity allowed trepostomes to metabolically overcome unfavorable carbonate saturation states. The differing responses of trepostome and cryptostome bryozoans to carbonate saturation states suggest that bryozoans should not be considered as a single group in marine extinctions linked to ocean chemistry changes. Likewise, it would suggest that modern stenolaemate and gymnolaemate bryozoans should be treated separately when considering their response to modern ocean chemistry changes.
Sovereignty as Care: Acquaintances, Mutuality, and Scale in the Wa State of Myanmar
Authors: Steinmüller Hans
Published: September 2022

Sovereignty always relies on a double movement of violence and care. It requires the power to exercise violence as well as the capacity to care, to protect, and to nourish. In the footsteps of Foucault and Agamben, numerous scholars have rediscovered the same paradox in philosophical and legal texts. Anthropologists writing about informal and practical sovereignty pay attention to violence, but sometimes ignore the importance of care for the exercise of sovereignty. Against such tendencies to focus on texts and on violence, this article deals with sovereignty as care. The concrete examples are the relationships of care between commanders, soldiers, and villagers in the Wa State of Myanmar, a de-facto state governed by an insurgent army. In the absence of an effective government bureaucracy, popular sovereignty in this military state relies on a particular logic of personal relations, in which care is central. Subordinates have to careaboutleaders, whereas leaders are supposed to careforsubordinates. Care provides the balance and foil for the exercise of violence, and both are necessary for the exercise of sovereignty. The combination of violence and care in personal relations is scaled up to create “the people” as the subject and object of sovereignty. The article describes the logic of personal relations that allows for the exercise of popular sovereignty in the Wa State and elsewhere.
Mafic to felsic dyke swarms in coastal Guangdong, China: geochemical and geochronological constraints on the latest Mesozoic geodynamics on the southern margin of the South China Block
Authors: Cai Jianxin , Wu Yi , Han Yulin
Published: September 2022

The coastal region of Guangdong Province, China, is characterized by well-developed dyke swarms. The dykes with widths of decimetres to metres and lengths of tens of metres occur along straight and planar fractures cutting granites or volcanic rocks with Jurassic to Early Cretaceous ages. They show steep attitudes with strikes varying from NNW to NNE and from NE to SE, consistent with a stress regime transition from E–W to N–S extension. Major-element analysis on representative dyke samples reveals a composition range from basaltic to andesitic with a few dacitic outliers. Trace elements of most samples show notable Nb–Ta negative anomalies and Pb positive anomalies on the primitive mantle normalized spidergrams, characteristic of arc-related rocks. Among these, several dacite samples show notable fractionated medium rare earth elements and heavy rare earth elements and high Sr/Y (47–74) and La/Yb (15–21) ratios indicative of adakitic affinity. A few samples lack anomalies in Nb and Ta and have primitive trace-element ratios (e.g. Nb/La and Sr/Nd) or initial ϵNd values resembling ocean island basalt-like rocks. Rare earth element distribution patterns of all samples are right inclined and generally absent of Eu anomalies, which together with other trace-element indexes indicate an origin from heterogeneous mantle sources with depths below the stability field of plagioclase. Radiogenic isotopes, especially those of Nd and Sr (or Nd–Pb), define an array extended from the depleted to enriched mantle (EMII) provenance. LA-ICP-MS dating of zircon obtains ages between 110 and 70 Ma indicating emplacement of these dykes in latest Early to Late Cretaceous time, a time just before initiation of the South China Sea basin. In the context of regional geodynamics, it is proposed that these dykes were formed in a tectonic setting transiting from a Pacific-related back-arc to a passive continental margin pertaining to the development of the South China Sea basin.
In vitro anthelmintic activity of an R-carvone nanoemulsions towards multiresistant Haemonchus contortus
Authors: Aguiar Antônia Aniellen Raianne Moises , Filho José Vilemar de Araújo , Pinheiro Henety Nascimento , Campelo Matheus da Silva , Ribeiro Wesley Lyeverton Correia , Melo Ana Carolina Fonseca Lindoso , Rocha Letícia Oliveira da , Ribeiro Maria Elenir Nobre Pinho , Ricardo Nágila Maria Pontes Silva , Abreu Flávia Oliveira Monteiro da Silva , Oliveira Lorena Mayana Beserra de , André Weibson Paz Pinheiro , Bevilaqua Claudia Maria Leal
Published: September 2022

This work aimed to evaluate the in vitro anthelmintic effect of carvone nanoemulsions on Haemonchus contortus. Three R-carvone nanoemulsions were prepared: uncoated R-carvone nanoemulsions homogenized in a sonicator (UNAlg-son) and homogenized in an ultrahomogenizer (UNAlg-ultra) and sodium alginate-coated R-carvone (CNAlg-ultra). The physicochemical characterizations of the nanoemulsions were carried out. The anthelmintic activity was evaluated using egg hatch test (EHT), larval development test (LDT) and adult worm motility test (AWMT). Changes in cuticle induced in adult H. contortus were evaluated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The results were subjected to analysis of variance and compared using the Tukey test (P < 0.05). The effective concentration to inhibit 50% (EC50) of egg hatching and larval development was calculated. The particle sizes were 281.1 nm (UNAlg-son), 152.7 nm (UNAlg-ultra) and 557.8 nm (CNAlg-ultra), and the zeta potentials were −15 mV (UNAlg-son), −10.8 mV (UNAlg-ultra) and −24.2 mV (CNAlg-ultra). The encapsulation efficiency was 99.84 ± 0.01%. SEM of the nanoemulsions showed an increase in size. In EHT, the EC50 values of UNAlg-son, UNAlg-ultra and CNAlg-ultra were 0.19, 0.02 and 0.17 mg mL−1, respectively. In LDT, they were 0.29, 0.31 and 0.95 mg mL−1 for UNAlg-son, UNAlg-ultra and CNAlg-ultra, respectively. The adult motility inhibition was 100% after 12 h of exposure to UNAlg-ultra and CNAlg-ultra, while for UNAlg-son, it was 79.16%. SEM showed changes in the buccal capsule and cuticular damage. It was concluded that R-carvone nanoemulsions showed antiparasitic action demonstrating promise for the control of infections caused by gastrointestinal nematodes in small ruminants.
Long-term temporal trends in gastrointestinal parasite infection in wild Soay sheep
Authors: Hayward Adam D. , Behnke Jerzy M. , Childs Dylan Z. , Corripio-Miyar Yolanda , Fenton Andy , Fraser Mariecia D. , Kenyon Fiona , McNeilly Tom N. , Pakeman Robin J. , Pedersen Amy B. , Pemberton Josephine M. , Sweeny Amy R. , Wilson Ken , Pilkington Jill G.
Published: September 2022

Monitoring the prevalence and abundance of parasites over time is important for addressing their potential impact on host life histories, immunological profiles and their influence as a selective force. Only long-term ecological studies have the potential to shed light on both the temporal trends in infection prevalence and abundance and the drivers of such trends, because of their ability to dissect drivers that may be confounded over shorter time scales. Despite this, only a relatively small number of such studies exist. Here, we analysed changes in the prevalence and abundance of gastrointestinal parasites in the wild Soay sheep population of St. Kilda across 31 years. The host population density (PD) has increased across the study, and PD is known to increase parasite transmission, but we found that PD and year explained temporal variation in parasite prevalence and abundance independently. Prevalence of both strongyle nematodes and coccidian microparasites increased during the study, and this effect varied between lambs, yearlings and adults. Meanwhile, abundance of strongyles was more strongly linked to host PD than to temporal (yearly) dynamics, while abundance of coccidia showed a strong temporal trend without any influence of PD. Strikingly, coccidian abundance increased 3-fold across the course of the study in lambs, while increases in yearlings and adults were negligible. Our decades-long, intensive, individual-based study will enable the role of environmental change and selection pressures in driving these dynamics to be determined, potentially providing unparalleled insight into the drivers of temporal variation in parasite dynamics in the wild.
Familial risk for major depression: differential white matter alterations in healthy and depressed participants
Authors: Winter Alexandra , Thiel Katharina , Meinert Susanne , Lemke Hannah , Waltemate Lena , Breuer Fabian , Culemann Regina , Pfarr Julia-Katharina , Stein Frederike , Brosch Katharina , Meller Tina , Ringwald Kai Gustav , Thomas-Odenthal Florian , Jansen Andreas , Nenadić Igor , Krug Axel , Repple Jonathan , Opel Nils , Dohm Katharina , Leehr Elisabeth J. , Grotegerd Dominik , Kugel Harald , Hahn Tim , Kircher Tilo , Dannlowski Udo
Published: September 2022

Background

Major depressive disorder (MDD) has been associated with alterations in brain white matter (WM) microstructure. However, diffusion tensor imaging studies in biological relatives have presented contradicting results on WM alterations and their potential as biomarkers for vulnerability or resilience. To shed more light on associations between WM microstructure and resilience to familial risk, analyses including both healthy and depressed relatives of MDD patients are needed.

Methods

In a 2 (MDD v. healthy controls, HC) × 2 (familial risk yes v. no) design, we investigated fractional anisotropy (FA) via tract-based spatial statistics in a large well-characterised adult sample (N = 528), with additional controls for childhood maltreatment, a potentially confounding proxy for environmental risk.

Results

Analyses revealed a significant main effect of diagnosis on FA in the forceps minor and the left superior longitudinal fasciculus (ptfce−FWE = 0.009). Furthermore, a significant interaction of diagnosis with familial risk emerged (ptfce−FWE = 0.036) Post-hoc pairwise comparisons showed significantly higher FA, mainly in the forceps minor and right inferior fronto-occipital fasciculus, in HC with as compared to HC without familial risk (ptfce−FWE < 0.001), whereas familial risk played no role in MDD patients (ptfce−FWE = 0.797). Adding childhood maltreatment as a covariate, the interaction effect remained stable.

Conclusions

We found widespread increased FA in HC with familial risk for MDD as compared to a HC low-risk sample. The significant effect of risk on FA was present only in HC, but not in the MDD sample. These alterations might reflect compensatory neural mechanisms in healthy adults at risk for MDD potentially associated with resilience.
The Reconstruction of Federalism: Foreign Submarine Telegraph Cables and American Law, 1868–78
Authors: Swett Brooks Tucker
Published: September 2022

In the wake of the Civil War, Americans contested the relationship between the federal government and states. Conflict over federal authority played out in concrete and surprising terms in a controversy that erupted in 1868 surrounding regulation of international telegraphy. The debate, which has remained largely unexamined, centered on whether a state could authorize a foreign company to land a submarine telegraph cable on American shores without Congress’s permission. Scholars have scrutinized consequences of the revision of federalism for individuals’ rights but have devoted less attention to implications for the nation’s international relations and commerce. The regulation of foreign cables, however, proved a key testing ground for the federal government’s efforts to assert sovereignty before both state authorities and other nations during Reconstruction. The episode revealed varied alliances and sources of opposition that emerged amid attempts to project federal power. It also reflected many Americans’ growing expectations of an expanded role for the national government in commerce and the international sphere—a position the federal government realized only haltingly. Intractable problems of federalism contributed to congressional inaction. While undertaking the formidable work of reconstructing the Union, the United States government struggled to delineate the physical boundaries of its authority.
Assessing the status of the Green Peafowl’s “expected stronghold” in dry forests along the Salawin River, north-west Thailand
Authors: Sukumal Niti , Thunhikorn Somying , Savini Tommaso
Published: September 2022

The suitable habitats of the Endangered Green PeafowlPavo muticushave declined by 80% over the past century due to extensive anthropogenic degradation. Currently, only six strongholds remain in mainland South-east Asia. While there are estimates of the species’ presence and status in five of these, the sixth one, defined as an “expected stronghold” located in the suitable dry forest along the Salawin River between Thailand and Myanmar, is not well documented. This study assessed the status of the area as a stronghold for the Green Peafowl’s long-term survival by estimating 1) the population density, 2) the current extension of suitable habitats, and 3) the threats to its survival. The area had an estimated density of 0.27 calling males/km2(CI = 0.07–1.01) inhabiting 9,154 km2of a mosaic of forest types, including mixed dry pine, mixed deciduous, and dry dipterocarp forests. Higher estimates were reported in other strongholds, including 0.8 birds/km2in Bago Yoma (Myanmar), 15.8 birds/km2in north-east Thailand, 1.13–11.34 birds/km2in HuaiKhaKhaeng Wildlife Sanctuary (Thailand), 0.15–1.7 birds/km2in northern Cambodia, and 0.15–4.69 birds/km2in eastern Cambodia / south-central Vietnam. Hunting, habitat disturbance, and the presence of humans posed the greatest danger to the species across the surveyed area. Our results confirm the potential of the area for the species’ long-term survival. However, this “expected stronghold,” which could sustain a population of over 10 calling males/km2like other high-quality strongholds, is in dire need of a comprehensive management plan to help reduce anthropogenic pressure. Ultimately, transboundary management between Thailand and Myanmar is crucial for the long-term repopulation of this stronghold.
Prevalence and factors associated with demoralization in palliative care patients: A cross-sectional study from Hong Kong
Authors: Chan Wallace Chi Ho , Yu Clare Tsz Kiu , Kwok Denis Ka Shaw , Wan Jamie Kit Ming
Published: September 2022

Objectives

Although demoralization is common among palliative care patients, it has not yet been examined empirically in the Hong Kong Chinese context. This study aims to examine (1) the prevalence of demoralization among community-dwelling palliative care patients in Hong Kong; (2) the percentage of palliative care patients who are demoralized but not depressed and vice versa; and (3) the association of socio-demographic factors, particularly family support, with demoralization.

Method

A cross-sectional study targeting community-living palliative care patients in Hong Kong was conducted. A total of 54 patients were recruited by a local hospice and interviewed for completing a questionnaire which included measures of demoralization, depression, perceived family support, and demographic information.

Results

The prevalence of demoralization was 64.8%. Although there was overlap between demoralization and depression (52.8% meeting the criteria of both), 7.5% of depressed patients were not demoralized, and 13.2% of demoralized patients were not depressed. Participants who were not single and had more depressive symptoms and less family support had a significantly higher demoralization level.

Significance of results

This is the first study which reports the prevalence of demoralization in Hong Kong. Demoralization was found common in community-living palliative care patients receiving medical social work services in Hong Kong. This study provides evidence of the importance of differentiating the constructs between demoralization and depression. It also provides an implication that those who are married, more depressed, and have the least family support could be the most vulnerable group at risk of demoralization. We recommend that early assessment of demoralization among palliative care patients be considered.
Upending the New Deal Regulatory Regime: Democratic Party Position Change on Financial Regulation
Authors: Barton Richard
Published: September 2022

Why did congressional Democrats upend the financial regulatory regime they had maintained since the New Deal? I argue that the congressional reforms of the mid-1970s paved the way for the Democratic Party’s turn against financial regulation. Prior to congressional reform, Democrats in Congress were especially parochial, and Southern populists dominated the House and Senate banking committees. These parochial and populist orientations complemented the radically decentralized banking system by New Deal financial regulations. The elimination of the seniority rule and other reforms reduced parochialism and strengthened Democratic leadership, enabling the party to enact deregulatory reforms that provided (short-term, at least) benefits to the diffuse interests of American savers and consumers at the expense of entrenched local industry groups. In the long run, however, these deregulatory reforms significantly accelerated the concentration of economic power held by the nation’s largest firms and wealthiest individuals.
ACT-Matrix: Was wirklich zählt!
Authors: Ritze Michaela , Wabnitz Pascal , Redecker Tobias M.
Published: September 2022

Die fachpflegerische Begleitung von Menschen mit Epilepsie ist vielschichtig, da nicht nur die medizinische Behandlung begleitet, sondern auch psychoedukative Epilepsie-Schulungen sowie Anfalls- und Alltagsbegleitung angeboten werden sollten. Ein wichtiger Aspekt der pflegerischen Beratung ist dabei die Unterstützung hin zu einer angemessenen Krankheitsverarbeitung. Im Falle einer chronischen Erkrankung wie der Epilepsie, stellt die Formulierung realistischer und wertebasierter Lebensziele eine komplexe Aufgabe dar. Anhand eines Fallbeispieles soll die Beratungsmethode ACT-Matrix im Kontext der Bezugspflege einer jungen Frau mit Epilepsie dargestellt werden. Die ACT-Matrix basiert auf der Akzeptanz- und Commitmenttherapie (ACT), die verhaltenstherapeutische Ansätze mit achtsamkeits- und akzeptanzbasierten Strategien sowie Wertearbeit kombiniert.
Crop Yield Loss Risk Is Modulated by Anthropogenic Factors
Authors: Kinnunen Pekka , Heino Matias , Sandström Vilma , Taka Maija , Ray Deepak K. , Kummu Matti
Published: September 2022

High crop yield variation between years—caused by extreme shocks on the food production system such as extreme weather—can have substantial effects on food production. This in turn introduces vulnerabilities into the global food system. To mitigate the effects of these shocks, there is a clear need to understand how different adaptive capacity measures link to crop yield variability. While existing literature provides many local‐scale studies on this linkage, no comprehensive global assessment yet exists. We assessed reported crop yield variation for wheat, maize, soybean, and rice for the time period 1981–2009 by measuring both yield loss risk (variation in negative yield anomalies considering all years) and changes in yields during “dry” shock and “hot” shock years. We used the machine learning algorithm XGBoost to assess the explanatory power of selected gridded indicators of anthropogenic factors globally (i.e., adaptive capacity measures such as the human development index, irrigation infrastructure, and fertilizer use) on yield variation at a 0.5° resolution within climatically similar regions (to rule out the role of average climate conditions). We found that the anthropogenic factors explained 40%–60% of yield loss risk variation across the whole time period, whereas the factors provided noticeably lower (5%–20%) explanatory power during shock years. On a continental scale, especially in Europe and Africa, the factors explained a high proportion of the yield loss risk variation (up to around 80%). Assessing crop production vulnerabilities on global scale provides supporting knowledge to target specific adaptation measures, thus contributing to global food security.
Investigation of Flow Characteristics of Landslide Materials Through Pore Space Topology and Complex Network Analysis
Authors: Zhang Jia , Ma Gang , Yang Zhibing , Ma Qirui , Zhang Wenyu , Zhou Wei
Published: September 2022

Unlike embankments, earth dams, and other man‐made structures, most landslide dams are formed by rapid accumulation of rock or debris rather than mechanical compaction; thus, they are loose and pose a great risk of seepage failure. Landslide materials usually have complex pore structures with randomly distributed pores of various sizes, making the flow and transport processes very complex. Aiming at these challenges, we systematically investigated the influences of pore structure on the micro‐and macro‐scale flow characteristics of landslide materials. First, landslide materials are simplified as spherical granular packings with wide grain size distributions. Then, we use the Finite‐difference method Stokes solver to simulate the fluid flow through granular packings and calculate their permeability. We characterize the pore structure using different topological measures, including these borrowed from complex network theory. Among these measures, tortuosity and global efficiency show clear relations with permeability. The pore network modeling indicates that pore size heterogeneity and pore connectivity significantly influence the flow characteristics. The correlation between pore‐scale velocity and throat diameters follows a power‐law scaling with an exponent close to two, suggesting that the Hagen–Poiseuille law would still be valid in complex porous media. The permeability and porosity, throat radius, and tortuosity of pore structure can be related by the equation proposed by Nishiyama and Yokoyama (2017, https://doi.org/10.1002/2016JB013793). The complex network analysis reveals that the assortative network is more permeable than the disassortative network. Furthermore, pores with larger closeness centrality have higher flow efficiency, resulting in higher macroscopic permeability.
U.K.-Based Geoscientists Trapped in European Funding Impasse
Authors: Dacey James
Published: September 2022

Political disputes threaten the United Kingdom’s status in Horizon Europe, the world’s largest transnational funding program.
Neuroimaging in schizophrenia: an overview of findings and their implications for synaptic changes
Authors: Howes Oliver D. , Cummings Connor , Chapman George E. , Shatalina Ekaterina
Published: September 2022

Over the last five decades, a large body of evidence has accrued for structural and metabolic brain alterations in schizophrenia. Here we provide an overview of these findings, focusing on measures that have traditionally been thought to reflect synaptic spine density or synaptic activity and that are relevant for understanding if there is lower synaptic density in the disorder. We conducted literature searches to identify meta-analyses or other relevant studies in patients with chronic or first-episode schizophrenia, or in people at high genetic or clinical risk for psychosis. We identified 18 meta-analyses including over 50,000 subjects in total, covering: structural MRI measures of gyrification index, grey matter volume, grey matter density and cortical thickness, neurite orientation dispersion and density imaging, PET imaging of regional glucose metabolism and magnetic resonance spectroscopy measures of N-acetylaspartate. We also review preclinical evidence on the relationship between ex vivo synaptic measures and structural MRI imaging, and PET imaging of synaptic protein 2A (SV2A). These studies show that schizophrenia is associated with lower grey matter volumes and cortical thickness, accelerated grey matter loss over time, abnormal gyrification patterns, and lower regional SV2A levels and metabolic markers in comparison to controls (effect sizes from ~ −0.11 to −1.0). Key regions affected include frontal, anterior cingulate and temporal cortices and the hippocampi. We identify several limitations for the interpretation of these findings in terms of understanding synaptic alterations. Nevertheless, taken with post-mortem findings, they suggest that schizophrenia is associated with lower synaptic density in some brain regions. However, there are several gaps in evidence, in particular whether SV2A findings generalise to other cohorts.
Basal forebrain cholinergic signaling in the basolateral amygdala promotes strength and durability of fear memories
Authors: Crimmins Byron E. , Lingawi Nura W. , Chieng Billy C. , Leung Beatrice K. , Maren Stephen , Laurent Vincent
Published: September 2022

The basolateral amygdala (BLA) complex receives dense cholinergic projections from the nucleus basalis of Meynert (NBM) and the horizontal limb of the diagonal band of Broca (HDB). The present experiments examined whether these projections regulate the formation, extinction, and renewal of fear memories. This was achieved by employing a Pavlovian fear conditioning protocol and optogenetics in transgenic rats. Silencing NBM projections during fear conditioning weakened the fear memory produced by that conditioning and abolished its renewal after extinction. By contrast, silencing HDB projections during fear conditioning had no effect. Silencing NBM or HDB projections during extinction enhanced the loss of fear produced by extinction, but only HDB silencing prevented renewal. Next, we found that systemic blockade of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors during fear conditioning mimicked the effects produced by silencing NBM projections during fear conditioning. However, this blockade had no effect when given during extinction. These findings indicate that basal forebrain cholinergic signaling in the BLA plays a critical role in fear regulation by promoting strength and durability of fear memories. We concluded that cholinergic compounds may improve treatments for post-traumatic stress disorder by durably stripping fear memories from their fear-eliciting capacity.
IRES-mediated Wnt2 translation in apoptotic neurons triggers astrocyte dedifferentiation
Authors: Fan Hong , Yang Jialei , Zhang Kun , Xing Junling , Guo Baolin , Mao Honghui , Wang Wenting , Hu Yingzhou , Lin Wei , Huang Ying , Ding Jian , Yu Caiyong , Fu Fanfan , Sun Li , Wu Jing , Zhao Youyi , Deng Wenbin , Zhou Chengji , Qiu Mengsheng , Wu Shengxi , Ding Yu-Qiang , Wang Yazhou
Published: September 2022

Reactive astrogliosis usually bears some properties of neural progenitors. How injury triggers astrocyte dedifferentiation remains largely unclear. Here, we report that ischemia induces rapid up-regulation of Wnt2 protein in apoptotic neurons and activation of canonical Wnt signaling in reactive astrocytes in mice, primates and human. Local delivery of Wnt2 shRNA abolished the dedifferentiation of astrocytes while over-expressing Wnt2 promoted progenitor marker expression and neurogenesis. Both the activation of Wnt signaling and dedifferentiation of astrocytes was compromised in ischemic caspase-3−/− cortex. Over-expressing stabilized β-catenin not only facilitated neurogenesis but also promoted functional recovery in ischemic caspase-3−/− mice. Further analysis showed that apoptotic neurons up-regulated Wnt2 protein via internal ribosome entry site (IRES)-mediated translation. Knocking down death associated protein 5 (DAP5), a key protein in IRES-mediated protein translation, significantly diminished Wnt activation and astrocyte dedifferentiation. Our data demonstrated an apoptosis-initiated Wnt-activating mechanism which triggers astrocytic dedifferentiation and facilitates neuronal regeneration.
Transplantation of PSC-derived myogenic progenitors counteracts disease phenotypes in FSHD mice
Authors: Azzag Karim , Bosnakovski Darko , Tungtur Sudheer , Salama Peter , Kyba Michael , Perlingeiro Rita C. R.
Published: September 2022

Facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy (FSHD) is a genetically dominant progressive myopathy caused by improper silencing of the DUX4 gene, leading to fibrosis, muscle atrophy, and fatty replacement. Approaches focused on muscle regeneration through the delivery of stem cells represent an attractive therapeutic option for muscular dystrophies. To investigate the potential for cell transplantation in FSHD, we have used the doxycycline-regulated iDUX4pA-HSA mouse model in which low-level DUX4 can be induced in skeletal muscle. We find that mouse pluripotent stem cell (PSC)-derived myogenic progenitors engraft in muscle actively undergoing DUX4-mediated degeneration. Donor-derived muscle tissue displayed reduced fibrosis and importantly, engrafted muscles showed improved contractile specific force compared to non-transplanted controls. These data demonstrate the feasibility of replacement of diseased muscle with PSC-derived myogenic progenitors in a mouse model for FSHD, and highlight the potential for the clinical benefit of such a cell therapy approach.