bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Measure to improve: Is there a patient‐acuity measurement tool suitable for use in maternity service provision in the Netherlands? A systematic review
Authors: Cronie Doug J. , Rosman Ageeth , Vries Raymond de
Published: October 2022

Background and Aims

It is difficult to overestimate the importance of safe staffing levels within the context of effective, quality healthcare. Poor staffing has been cited as a contributory factor in the number of unnecessary hospital deaths. This is particularly so in maternity care, where poor staffing has been inexorably linked to avoidable perinatal and maternal mortality. In the Netherlands, maternity service provision (MSP) is stratified into primary (community)‐ and secondary (hospital)‐based care. While most midwives (71%) work in primary care, the majority are self‐employed or work in small group practices. Where women birth at home, one‐to‐one care during labor is the norm. However, despite the existence of a national standard for birth‐related care, which states unequivocally that women birthing in hospitals should (also) receive one‐to‐one care, while in labor this is not always the case. The extent of compliance with the national care standard has until now not been the subject of scrutiny. We aim to identify evidence for the use of patient‐acuity measurement tools (PAMTs) in MSP to explore the extent of one‐to‐one care for women birthing in hospitals in the Netherlands and select and/or modify a valid PAMT suitable for use in maternity units in hospitals in the Netherlands to assess to what extent the quality standard of one‐to‐one care for birthing women is being met.

Methods

In this systematic literature review, all citations are first screened for title and abstract, then full text for suitability of inclusion.

Results

Three studies were identified for inclusion in the review. One PAMT is recommended.

Conclusion

One PAMT suitable for use in maternity service was identified. However, the evidence level for use is low. Nevertheless, in view of the unique nature of midwifery service provision, a PAMT specifically developed for use in maternity service is preferable.
A multimodal molecular image fusion method based on relative total variation and co‐saliency detection
Authors: Wang Jing , Zhang Wenjuan , Zhu Rui
Published: October 2022

Image fusion can integrate complementary information from multimodal molecular images to provide an informative single result image. In order to obtain a better fusion effect, this article proposes a novel method based on relative total variation and co‐saliency detection (RTVCSD). First, only the gray‐scale anatomical image is decomposed into a base layer and a texture layer according to the relative total variation; then, the three‐channel color functional image is transformed into the luminance and chroma (YUV) color space, and the luminance component Y is directly fused with the base layer of the anatomical image by comparing the co‐saliency information; next, the fused base layer is linearly combined with the texture layer, and the obtained fused result is combined with the chroma information U and V of the functional image. Finally, the fused image is obtained by transforming back to the red–green–blue color space. The dataset consists of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)/positron emission tomography images, MRI/single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) images, computed tomography/SPECT images, and green fluorescent protein/phase contrast images, each category with 20 image pairs. Experimental results demonstrate that the proposed method RTVCSD outperforms the nine comparison algorithms in terms of visual effects and objective evaluation. RTVCSD well preserves the texture information of the anatomical image and the metabolism or protein distribution information of the functional image.
The relationship between the mode of presentation, CT‐derived body composition, systemic inflammatory grade and survival in colon cancer
Authors: Golder Allan M. , Sin Ling Kwan Ernest , Alani Fatima , Alasadi Ala , Dolan Ross , Mansouri David , Horgan Paul G. , McMillan Donald C. , Roxburgh Campbell S.
Published: October 2022

Background

Within colorectal cancer, the systemic inflammatory response (SIR) and CT‐derived body composition, particularly the loss of lean muscle mass, are independently associated with oncological outcomes; however, no study has included both non‐metastatic and metastatic disease. The present study analyses the association between body composition, mode of presentation, SIR and survival in patients with TNM I–IV colon cancer.

Methods

Patients diagnosed with colon cancer from 2011 to 2014 were identified. The SIR was stratified using systemic inflammatory grade (SIG). Staging CT scans were used to define body composition: subcutaneous fat index (SFI), visceral fat area (VFA), skeletal muscle index (SMI) and skeletal muscle density (SMD). The effect of SIG and body composition on mode of presentation and 3‐year overall survival (3‐yr OS) was analysed.

Results

One thousand one hundred forty‐six patients were identified; 14%/38%/40%/8% had TNM Stage I/II/III/IV colon cancer, respectively. Patients were predominantly aged 65 + (63%), male (52%) and BMI > 25 (62%). 79%74% had a high SFI/VFA, and 56%/62% had a low SMI/SMD, respectively. Abnormal body composition was prevalent across all disease stages and associated with TNM stage—high SFI in 87%/76%/81%/68% (P < 0.001), high VFA in 79%/73%/75%/67% (P = 0.189), low SMI in 43%/60%/55%/68% (P < 0.001) and low SMD in 55%/65%/61%/67% (P = 0.094) of TNM I/II/III/IV disease, respectively. Body composition was associated with SIG—high SFI in 83%/80%/77%/78%/66% (P = 0.004), high VFA in 78%/78%/70%/63%/61% (P = 0.002), low SMI in 48%/52%/62%/62%/79% (P < 0.001) and low SMD in 56%/60%/62%/70%/76% (P < 0.001) of patients with SIG 0/1/2/3/4, respectively. After adjustment for other factors, increased SIG (OR 1.95), visceral obesity (OR 0.65) and low SMI (OR 1.61) were associated with emergency presentation. In TNM Stage II colon cancer, low SMI and low SMD were associated with worse 3‐yr OS (92% vs 87%, P < 0.001 and 96% vs 85%, P < 0.001, respectively). In TNM Stage III, a trend was seen between low SMI and SMD and 3‐yr OS (77% vs 73%, P = 0.091 and 76% vs 75%, P = 0.034, respectively). In TNM Stage IV disease, low SMI was associated with 3‐yr OS (43% vs 16%, P < 0.001). A trend, albeit not of significance, was seen between low SMD and 3‐yr OS (32% vs 21%, P = 0.366).

Conclusions

The present results show that abnormal body composition is prevalent across TNM I–IV colon cancer and associated with TNM stage and SIG. Body composition is independently associated with emergency presentation and long‐term survival. Further research is required to analyse whether interventions including structured exercise programmes or attenuation of the SIR have an effect on CT‐derived body composition and oncological outcomes.
Reduction of senescent fibro‐adipogenic progenitors in progeria‐aged muscle by senolytics rescues the function of muscle stem cells
Authors: Liu Lei , Yue Xianlin , Sun Zewei , Hambright William S. , Wei Jianming , Li Ying , Matre Polina , Cui Yan , Wang Zhihui , Rodney George , Huard Johnny , Robbins Paul D. , Mu Xiaodong
Published: October 2022

Background

Fibro‐adipogenic progenitors (FAPs) in the muscles have been found to interact closely with muscle progenitor/stem cells (MPCs) and facilitate muscle regeneration at normal conditions. However, it is not clear how FAPs may interact with MPCs in aged muscles. Senolytics have been demonstrated to selectively eliminate senescent cells and generate therapeutic benefits on ageing and multiple age‐related disease models.

Methods

By studying the muscles and primary cells of age matched WT mice and Zmpste24−/− (Z24−/−) mice, an accelerated ageing model for Hutchinson–Gilford progeria syndrome (HGPS), we examined the interaction between FAPs and MPCs in progeria‐aged muscle, and the potential effect of senolytic drug fisetin in removing senescent FAPs and improving the function of MPCs.

Results

We observed that, compared with muscles of WT mice, muscles of Z24−/− mice contained a significantly increased number of FAPs (2.4‐fold; n > =6, P < 0.05) and decreased number of MPCs (2.8‐fold; n > =6, P < 0.05). FAPs isolated from Z24−/− muscle contained about 44% SA‐β‐gal+ senescent cells, in contrast to about 3.5% senescent cells in FAPs isolated from WT muscle (n > =6, P < 0.001). The co‐culture of Z24−/− FAPs with WT MPCs resulted in impaired proliferation and myogenesis potential of WT MPCs, with the number of BrdU positive proliferative cells being reduced for 3.3 times (n > =6, P < 0.001) and the number of myosin heavy chain (MHC)‐positive myotubes being reduced for 4.5 times (n > =6, P < 0.001). The treatment of the in vitro co‐culture system of Z24−/− FAPs and WT MPCs with the senolytic drug fisetin led to increased apoptosis of Z24−/− FAPs (14.5‐fold; n > =6, P < 0.001) and rescued the impaired function of MPCs by increasing the number of MHC‐positive myotubes for 3.1 times (n > =6, P < 0.001). Treatment of Z24−/− mice with fisetin in vivo was effective in reducing the number of senescent FAPs (2.2‐fold, n > =6, P < 0.05) and restoring the number of muscle stem cells (2.6‐fold, n > =6, P < 0.05), leading to improved muscle pathology in Z24−/− mice.

Conclusions

These results indicate that the application of senolytics in the progeria‐aged muscles can be an efficient strategy to remove senescent cells, including senescent FAPs, which results in improved function of muscle progenitor/stem cells. The senescent FAPs can be a potential novel target for therapeutic treatment of progeria ageing related muscle diseases.
Atrial thrombosis: Not only left, think also about right!
Authors: Degiovanni Anna , Carassia Claudia , De Vecchi Simona , Erbetta Riccardo , Patti Giuseppe
Published: October 2022

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is the most common arrhythmia in the general population. Systemic thromboembolism from left atrial appendage (LAA) thrombosis is a well‐known complication of AF, whereas thromboembolic complications from a right atrial (RA) thrombus are infrequent. Nevertheless, the prevalence of RA thrombosis is debated; despite having a low prevalence in echocardiographic studies, the higher prevalence found in autoptic studies rises the hypothesis of an under detection of RA clots, possibly related to the limited evaluation of right atrial appendage (RAA) with non‐invasive imaging. Here we present a review of the current literature about RA thrombosis, regarding its diagnosis, differentials, and best treatment options.
Double outlet right ventricle in adults: Anatomic variability, surgical treatment, and late postoperative complications
Authors: Karev Egor , Stovpyuk Oksana F.
Published: October 2022

Double outlet right ventricle (DORV) is a highly complex congenital heart disease (CHD) entity, gaining increasing interest due to the rapid progress of cardiac surgery. The number of patients operated for this congenital defect has been growing since 1980s and over following decades with active transitioning of this cohort into the adult medicine. However, the diversity of initial anomaly and performed interventions makes challenging the management of these patients. This is particularly important in the regions where specialized adult CHD cardiology still remains underdeveloped. In this review, we observe the basic principles of DORV nomenclature, main types of the operations and possible late complications. The article focuses on adult patients and offers illustrations from clinical practice.
Ultrasound exploration of muscle characteristic changes and diabetic peripheral neuropathy in diabetic patients
Authors: Zhao Ping , Ding Changwei , Fu Xinxu , Zhang Yingchun , Gu Jiarui , Hu Ji , Wang Caishan , Yang Min , Sheng Yujing , Zhang Ying , Chen Xiaofang , Mao Pan , Liu Chun‐feng
Published: October 2022

Purpose

Using brightness mode ultrasound combined with shear wave elastography, this study aims to detect structural and functional changes of the medial head of gastrocnemius (MG) in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients with or without diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN).

Methods

149 T2DM patients (DPN group and non‐DPN group) and 60 healthy volunteers (control group) were enrolled. We measured the absolute difference of fascicle length (FL), pennation angle (PA), and shear wave velocity (SWV) of both MG in neutral position and maximal ankle joint's plantar flexion and calculated ΔFL, ΔPA, and ΔSWV. These three parameters, along with muscle thickness (MT), were compared among the three groups.

Results

In the DPN group, the MG's MT, ΔPA, and ΔSWV were significantly lower than in the non‐DPN group (p < 0.01); these parameters achieved the highest scores in the control group (p < 0.01). The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of the combination of ΔSWV and ΔFL was the largest for predicting inpatients with or without DPN.

Conclusions

Decreased muscle mass (MT) and muscle contractibility (ΔFL and ΔSWV) were detected in patients with T2DM, with or without DPN. ΔSWV and ΔFL of the MG showed high‐diagnostic accuracy for DPN warning signs.
Seven reasons why binary diagnostic categories should be replaced with empirically sounder and less stigmatizing dimensions
Authors: Lahey Benjamin B. , Tiemeier Henning , Krueger Robert F.
Published: October 2022

Background

An ongoing positive revolution advocates a new approach to the individual differences in human emotions, cognitions, and behavior that cause distress and impair functioning. This revolution endorses the long‐proposed, but still unrealized rejection of the medical model, which attributes psychological problems to a sick brain or mind. In addition, it advocates replacing the binary diagnoses used in ICD and DSM, which assume a clear discontinuity between “normal” and “abnormal” functioning, with continuous dimensions of psychological problems.

Method

Selective literature review.

Results and Discussion

Seven strong reasons are provided for adopting a dimensional approach.
Pharmacokinetics and biodistribution of extracellular vesicles administered intravenously and intranasally to Macaca nemestrina
Authors: Driedonks Tom , Jiang Linglei , Carlson Bess , Han Zheng , Liu Guanshu , Queen Suzanne E. , Shirk Erin N. , Gololobova Olesia , Liao Zhaohao , Nyberg Lyle H. , Lima Gabriela , Paniushkina Liliia , Garcia‐Contreras Marta , Schonvisky Kayla , Castell Natalie , Stover Mitchel , Guerrero‐Martin Selena , Richardson Riley , Smith Barbara , Mahairaki Vasiliki , Lai Charles P. , Izzi Jessica M. , Hutchinson Eric K. , Pate Kelly A. M. , Witwer Kenneth W.
Published: October 2022

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) have potential in disease treatment since they can be loaded with therapeutic molecules and engineered for retention by specific tissues. However, questions remain on optimal dosing, administration and pharmacokinetics. Previous studies have addressed biodistribution and pharmacokinetics in rodents, but little evidence is available for larger animals. Here, we investigated the pharmacokinetics and biodistribution of Expi293F‐derived EVs labelled with a highly sensitive nanoluciferase reporter (palmGRET) in a non‐human primate model (Macaca nemestrina), comparing intravenous (IV) and intranasal (IN) administration over a 125‐fold dose range. We report that EVs administered IV had longer circulation times in plasma than previously reported in mice and were detectable in cerebrospinal fluid after 30–60 min. EV association with peripheral blood mononuclear cells, especially B‐cells, was observed as early as 1‐min post‐administration. EVs were detected in liver and spleen within 1 h of IV administration. However, IN delivery was minimal, suggesting that pretreatment approaches may be needed in large animals. Furthermore, EV circulation times strongly decreased after repeated IV administration, possibly due to immune responses and with clear implications for xenogeneic EV‐based therapeutics. We hope that our findings from this baseline study in macaques will help to inform future research and therapeutic development of EVs.
SARS‐CoV‐2 evolves to reduce but not abolish neutralizing action
Authors: Zhang Yandi , Ndzouboukou Jo‐Lewis B. , Lin Xiaosong , Hou Hongyan , Wang Feng , Yuan Leyong , Gan Mengze , Yao Zongjie , Fu Hui , Cao Jinge , Fan Xionglin
Published: October 2022

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) variants of concern (VOCs) have prolonged coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic by escaping pre‐existing immunity acquired by natural infection or vaccination. Elucidation of VOCs' mutation trends and evasion of neutralization is required to update current control measures. Mutations and the prevalence of VOCs were analyzed in the global immunization coverage rate context. Lentivirus‐based pseudovirus neutralization analysis platforms for SARS‐CoV‐2 prototype strain (PS) and VOCs, containing Alpha, Beta, Gamma, Delta, and Omicron, were constructed based on the spike protein of each variant and HEK 293T cell line expressing the human angiotensin‐converting enzyme 2 (hACE2) receptor on the surface, and an enhanced green fluorescent protein reporter. Serum samples from 65 convalescent individuals and 20 WIBP‐CorV vaccine recipients and four therapeutic monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) namely imdevimab, casirivimab, bamlanivimab, and etesevimab were used to evaluate the neutralization potency against the variants. Pseudovirus‐based neutralization assay platforms for PS and VOCs were established, and multiplicity of infection (MOI) was the key factor influencing the assay result. Compared to PS, VOCs may enhance the infectivity of hACE2‐293T cells. Except for Alpha, other VOCs escaped neutralization to varying degrees. Attributed to favorable and emerging mutations, the current pandemic Omicron variant of all VOCs demonstrated the most significant neutralization‐escaping ability to the sera and mAbs. Compared with the PS pseudovirus, Omicron had 15.7‐ and 3.71‐fold decreases in the NT50 value (the highest serum dilution corresponding to a neutralization rate of 50%); and correspondingly, 90% and 43% of immunization or convalescent serum samples lost their neutralizing activity against the Omicron variant, respectively. Therefore, SARS‐CoV‐2 has evolved persistently with a strong ability to escape neutralization and prevailing against the established immune barrier. Our findings provide important clues to controlling the COVID‐19 pandemic caused by new variants.
Preparation of Graphene‐Based Hydrogel Thermal Interface Materials with Excellent Heat Dissipation and Mechanical Properties
Authors: Ma Jingying , Du Wenqiao , Chen Zhimin , Wang Wei , Zhang Long
Published: October 2022

Heat dissipation has become an essential factor affecting the performance and operating life of electronic devices as the development of modern electronic devices continues to miniaturize and integrate to increase power density. The development of new thermal interface materials has been the key solution to heat dissipation. Herein, a high thermal conductive graphene‐based hydrogel (G/PVP‐PVA) with an interpenetrating network is successfully constructed by physical cross‐linking combined with the freeze–thaw process. The effect of the preparation parameters on its all‐around performance is evaluated in detail. When the graphene dosage is 0.33%, the maximal tensile stress of the hydrogel is 322.4 kPa, the self‐recovery is 95.4%, and the thermal conductivity is as high as 1.486 W m−1 K−1. The cooling simulation experiment shows that the hydrogel can adhere closely to the wall to reduce the air thermal resistance effectively, and the cooling rate is as high as 5.04 °C min−1. The simulation experiment of the human body cooling shows that its cooling rate is 1.10 °C min−1, while that for a commercial hydrogel is 0.27 °C min−1. The G/PVP‐PVA can give a practically potential solution for the thermal management of flexible electronic products and provides a new material for an efficient medical cooling application.
The impact of animal welfare regulations on firms' product offerings: Humane or organic product?
Authors: Lin Zhiping , Xiao Wenli , Lin Yen‐Ting , Mu Yinping
Published: October 2022

Increased public concerns about animal welfare have spurred new regulations to improve animals' treatment and living conditions. We study how these regulations affect firms' product offerings, prices, and profits. We consider two competing animal agriculture supply chains, each consisting of a supplier and a buyer. New regulations require firms to choose between offering humane or organic products, which are differentiated by animals' living conditions. We find that consumers' growing awareness of animal welfare encourages firms to offer organic products, which require the highest standards for animals' living conditions. We also show that tightening humane product standards and loosening organic product standards encourage firms to offer organic products—but with distinct pricing implications. The former leads to higher retail prices whereas the latter may lower retail prices. Depending on costs and consumers' awareness of animal welfare, a humane product may be priced higher or lower than an organic product. Furthermore, we provide conditions under which a regulator should offer a unit‐cost or an investment cost subsidy to improve social welfare. We show that subsidies can encourage firms to change from offering humane to organic products, or vice versa, to enhance total social welfare.
Relapse after nonmetastatic rhabdomyosarcoma: Salvage rates and prognostic variables
Authors: Bergamaschi Luca , Chiaravalli Stefano , Livellara Virginia , Sironi Giovanna , Puma Nadia , Nigro Olga , Gattuso Giovanna , Luksch Roberto , Terenziani Monica , Spreafico Filippo , Meazza Cristina , Podda Marta , Biassoni Veronica , Schiavello Elisabetta , Hovsepyan Shushan , Morosi Carlo , Vennarini Sabina , Massimino Maura , Casanova Michela , Ferrari Andrea
Published: October 2022

Background

Patients with relapsing rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) pose a therapeutic challenge, and the survival rate is reportedly poor. We describe a retrospective series of relapsing RMS patients treated at a referral center for pediatric sarcoma, investigating the pattern of relapse, salvage rates, and factors correlating with final outcomes.

Methods

The analysis concerned 105 patients <21 years old treated from 1985 to 2020 with initially localized RMS at first relapse. For risk‐adapted stratification purposes, patient outcomes were examined using univariable and multivariable analyses based on patients’ clinical features at first diagnosis, first‐line treatments, clinical findings at first relapse, and second‐line treatments.

Results

First relapses occurred 0.08–4.8 years (median 1 year) following initial diagnosis and were local/locoregional in 59% of cases. Treatment at first relapse included chemotherapy in all but two cases, radiotherapy in 38, and surgery in 21. Median event‐free survival (EFS) after first relapse was 4 months, while 5‐year EFS was 16.3%; median overall survival (OS) was 9 months, while 5‐year OS was 16.7%. Several variables influenced survival rates. Considering only clinical findings and treatment at relapse, Cox's multivariable analysis showed that OS correlated significantly with time to relapse, radiotherapy administered at relapse, response to chemotherapy, and whether a second remission was achieved.

Conclusion

Survival following first relapse of patients with localized RMS at initial diagnosis is poor. The variables found to influence survival can be utilized in a risk‐adapted model to estimate the chances of salvage to guide decisions for second‐line treatments.
Porous anion exchange membranes fabricated by phase inversion and in‐situ modification for acid recovery
Authors: You Xinqiang , Chen Jiaqi , Teng Lin , Lin Jiuyang , Lin Xiaocheng
Published: October 2022

Diffusion dialysis (DD) for acid recovery is significantly restricted by the poor acid dialysis coefficient () of anion exchange membranes (AEMs). To overcome such problem, porous AEMs with extremely high free space volume have been fabricated herein based on porous membrane substrate, drawing inspiration from the dissolution‐diffusion concept. Specifically, chloromethylated polyethersulfone (CMPES) has been used as the starting material to create the porous substrate via non‐solvent phase inversion, then in‐situ crosslinked and quaternized using ethylenediamine (EDA) and N‐methylimidazole (NMI), respectively. In this study, the degrees of modification of EDA and NMI are controlled to adjust the microstructure and DD performance of the produced porous AEMs. The ideal AEM's and acid/salt separation factor (S) are 4.3 and 2.6 times greater, respectively, than those of the commercial DF‐120 membrane at the same condition. Additionally, it shows strong organic solvent resistance and thermal stability, and therefore demonstrate the potential for widespread use.
Generation of neutral pH high‐strength plasma‐activated water from a pin to water discharge and its bactericidal activity on multidrug‐resistant pathogens
Authors: N. Punith , Singh Ashish K. , J. Ananthanarasimhan , Boopathy Bhavadharini , Chatterjee Ritika , M. Hemanth , Chakravortty Dipshikha , Rao Lakshminarayana
Published: October 2022

Plasma‐activated water (PAW) is emerging as a green alternative technology in biomedicine due to its rich and diverse aqueous reactive nitrogen and oxygen species (RONS). This study explores how to configure a pin to water (P2W) discharge to generate neutral pH high‐strength plasma‐activated water (hs‐PAW) and its bactericidal activity on hypervirulent multidrug resistance (MDR) pathogens. The factors affecting the strength of PAW, namely: water type, PAW temperature, plasma enclosure, and activation time, were studied and optimized to generate hs‐PAW having 650 ± 40 mg/l of and 215 ± 15 mg/l of H2O2 at a pH of 7. This study demonstrates a simple P2W discharge set up to handle the MDR pathogens and can be easily scalable for real‐world medical applications.
Characterization of the Escherichia coli pyridoxal 5′‐phosphate homeostasis protein (YggS): Role of lysine residues in PLP binding and protein stability
Authors: Tramonti Angela , Ghatge Mohini S. , Babor Jill T. , Musayev Faik N. , di Salvo Martino Luigi , Barile Anna , Colotti Gianni , Giorgi Alessandra , Paredes Steven D. , Donkor Akua K. , Al Mughram Mohammed H. , de Crécy‐Lagard Valérie , Safo Martin K. , Contestabile Roberto
Published: October 2022

The pyridoxal 5′‐phosphate (PLP) homeostasis protein (PLPHP) is a ubiquitous member of the COG0325 family with apparently no catalytic activity. Although the actual cellular role of this protein is unknown, it has been observed that mutations of the PLPHP encoding gene affect the activity of PLP‐dependent enzymes, B6 vitamers and amino acid levels. Here we report a detailed characterization of the Escherichia coli ortholog of PLPHP (YggS) with respect to its PLP binding and transfer properties, stability, and structure. YggS binds PLP very tightly and is able to slowly transfer it to a model PLP‐dependent enzyme, serine hydroxymethyltransferase. PLP binding to YggS elicits a conformational/flexibility change in the protein structure that is detectable in solution but not in crystals. We serendipitously discovered that the K36A variant of YggS, affecting the lysine residue that binds PLP at the active site, is able to bind PLP covalently. This observation led us to recognize that a number of lysine residues, located at the entrance of the active site, can replace Lys36 in its PLP binding role. These lysines form a cluster of charged residues that affect protein stability and conformation, playing an important role in PLP binding and possibly in YggS function.
Probing eddy size and its effective mixing length in stably stratified roughness sublayer flows
Authors: Peltola Olli , Aurela Mika , Launiainen Samuli , Katul Gabriel
Published: October 2022

Stably stratified roughness sublayer flows are ubiquitous yet remain difficult to represent in models and to interpret using field experiments. Here, continuous high‐frequency potential temperature profiles from the forest floor up to 6.5 times the canopy height observed with distributed temperature sensing (DTS) are used to link eddy topology to roughness sublayer stability correction functions and coupling between air layers within and above the canopy. The experiments are conducted at two forest stands classified as hydrodynamically sparse and dense. Near‐continuous profiles of eddy sizes (length scales) and effective mixing lengths for heat are derived from the observed profiles using a novel conditional sampling approach. The approach utilizes potential temperature isoline fluctuations from a statically stable background state. The transport of potential temperature by an observed eddy is assumed to be conserved (adiabatic movement) and we assume that irreversible heat exchange between the eddy and the surrounding background occurs along the (vertical) periphery of the eddy. This assumption is analogous to Prandtl's mixing‐length concept, where momentum is transported rapidly vertically and then equilibrated with the local mean velocity gradient. A distinct dependence of the derived length scales on background stratification, height above ground, and canopy characteristics emerges from the observed profiles. Implications of these findings for (1) the failure of Monin–Obukhov similarity in the roughness sublayer and (2) above‐canopy flow coupling to the forest floor are examined. The findings have practical applications in terms of analysing similar DTS data sets with the proposed approach, modelling roughness sublayer flows, and interpreting nocturnal eddy covariance measurements above tall forested canopies.
Identifying nutrient sources and sinks to the South Platte River and Cherry Creek, Denver, CO, during low‐flow conditions in 2019–2020
Authors: Battaglin William A. , Chapin Tanner W.
Published: October 2022

Elevated concentrations and loads of nutrients in the South Platte River and Cherry Creek in Denver, Colorado, may have adverse effects on those streams and downstream water bodies, including increased production of algae, eutrophication, and decreased recreational opportunities. This article describes streamflow and concentrations and loads of nutrients for the South Platte River and Cherry Creek in Denver based on data collected during two longitudinal Lagrangian sampling campaigns in low‐flow conditions in fall of 2019 and 2020. The results are used to assess sources and sinks of nutrients in the study area and help to establish baseline conditions against which future changes in nutrient concentrations and loads can be assessed. Discharges from Chatfield and Cherry Creek Reservoirs, storm drains, and most tributaries to the South Platte River, and Cherry Creek were generally small sources of streamflow and nutrient loads in both years. The Marcy Gulch, South Platte Water Renewal, and Robert W. Hite wastewater treatment plants were larger sources of streamflow and nutrient loads. The Burlington Ditch was a sink for streamflow and nutrient loads, diverting more than 95% of the South Platte River during the two sampling campaigns. Most other sinks were associated with decreases in streamflow between sampling sites. Golf courses were a potential source of nutrients for Cherry Creek but not for the South Platte River.
Low‐head dam removal increases functional diversity of stream fish assemblages
Authors: Jones Adam C. , Meiners Scott J. , Effert‐Fanta Eden , Thomas Trent , Smith Shannon C.F. , Colombo Robert E.
Published: October 2022

Despite the growing number of dam removals, few have been studied to understand their impacts on stream fish communities. An even smaller proportion of dam removal studies focus on the impacts of low‐head dam removals, although they are the most common type of dam. Instead, the majority of removal studies focus on the impacts of larger dams. In this study, two previously impounded Illinois Rivers were monitored to assess the impacts of low‐head dam removal on the functional assemblage of stream fishes. Study sites were sampled each fall from 2012–2015 (pre‐dam removal) and 2018–2020 (post‐dam removal) in three locations: the tailrace, impoundment, and river channel. Fishes were aggregated into habitat and reproductive guilds, relating community changes to habitat, environmental metrics, and stream quality. Prior to removal, the slackwater guild was the most prevalent habitat guild throughout both rivers, while nest builders and benthic spawners were the most abundant reproductive guilds. During the two years following removal, fish assemblage throughout both rivers shifted to a more evenly distributed representation of habitat and reproductive guilds, while restoration of lotic habitat conditions increased, as surface water temperatures decreased and QHEI, IBI, and dissolved oxygen increased. This shift in environmental metrics and increase in overall stream quality increased, particularly in the formerly impounded reaches, indicate diminished habitat homogeneity, and a shift towards natural habitat diversity. This habitat diversification likely led to the restoration of a range of potential niches, thereby increasing the array of guild types inhabiting these rivers, while simultaneously preventing single‐guild dominance.
Small Fiber Neuropathy and Intractable Scalp Pruritus in Dermatomyositis Patients
Authors: Cirino Pablo Vitoriano , Hordinsky Maria , McAdams Brian , Romiti Ricardo
Published: October 2022

Background

Scalp pruritus is a common symptom in Dermatomyositis (DM) patients. There are indications that small nerve fibers neuropathy could be involved in this symptom, however the etiology of scalp pruritus is not fully understood.

Objectives

To assess epidermal nerve fiber (ENF) density of dermatomyositis patients with scalp pruritus by biopsy by confocal microscopy and immunohistochemistry with subsequent imaging analysis.

Methods

DM patients with severe scalp pruritus from the dermatology outpatient clinic were compared to healthy volunteers. Two 4-mm scalp skin biopsies were obtained above the right ear in the parietal region and below the occipital protuberance in the occipital region. Biopsy specimens were incubated with primary antibodies to protein gene product (PGP 9.5), calcitonin gene–related peptide (CGRP), substance P (SP) were used to visualize nerve fibers (ENF) and collagen IV was used to label the epidermal basement membrane. The number of ENFs per millimeter was counted and recorded as the mean of ± SD of counts in 16 images at two micrometer increments/sections, two from each of the samples. ENF densities were compared between groups and a multiple linear regression model was applied to associated factors with ENF density.

Results

Fifteen DM patients with severe scalp pruritus and 12 healthy volunteers were included in the study. The mean number of ENF/mm in occipital region of DM group was 16.0 ± 13.9 while the control group in the same region was 99.8 ± 33.1. In parietal region the number of ENF/mm of DM group was 18.0 ± 20.7 while in control group was 50.4 ± 17.4 (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

DM patients with pruritus could have some impairment of small nerve fiber density that could explain their recalcitrant scalp pruritus.
A Strand Entangled Supramolecular PANI/PAA Hydrogel Enabled Ultra‐Stretchable Strain Sensor
Authors: Liu Dong , Zhou Honghao , Zhao Yuanyuan , Huyan Chenxi , Wang Zibi , Torun Hamdi , Guo Zhanhu , Dai Sheng , Xu Ben Bin , Chen Fei
Published: October 2022

Hydrogel electronics have attracted growing interest for emerging applications in personal healthcare management, human‐machine interaction, etc. Herein, a “doping then gelling” strategy to synthesize supramolecular PANI/PAA hydrogel with a specific strand entangled network is proposed, by doping the PANI with acrylic acid (AA) monomers to avoid PANI aggregation. The high‐density electrostatic interaction between PAA and PANI chains serves as a dynamic bond to initiate the strand entanglement, enabling PAA/PANI hydrogel with ultra‐stretchability (2830%), high breaking strength (120 kPa), and rapid self‐healing properties. Moreover, the PAA/PANI hydrogel‐based sensor with a high strain sensitivity (gauge factor = 12.63), a rapid responding time (222 ms), and a robust conductivity‐based sensing behavior under cyclic stretching is developed. A set of strain sensing applications to precisely monitor human movements is also demonstrated, indicating a promising application prospect as wearable devices.
Functional Zeolitic Imidazolate Framework for Robust l‐Deoxyribozyme‐Based Therapy
Authors: Tan Kaiyue , Zhang Qingqing , Wang Qing , Gong Xue , Yu Shanshan , Li Ruomeng , Liu Xiaoqing , Wang Fuan
Published: October 2022

Programmable chiral biocatalysis represents a promising therapeutic strategy for its high stereospecific control over various biotransformations (e.g., chiral Aβ isomerization) of living entities yet is rarely explored. With an extraordinary resistance to nuclease digestion, the non‐natural left‐handed deoxyribozyme (l‐DNAzyme) therapy is constrained by inefficient delivery/release and insufficient cofactors supply. Herein, an efficient adenosine triphosphate (ATP)‐stimulated disassembly of l‐histidine (l‐His)‐integrated ZIF‐8 (l‐His‐ZIF‐8) is reported for sustaining the l‐DNAzyme‐amplified photodynamic therapy. This self‐sufficient l‐therapeutic platform can intelligently release the l‐DNAzyme probe and simultaneously supply l‐His DNAzyme cofactors via endogenous ATP. Then, the intrinsic microRNA‐21 catalyzes the generation of robust l‐DNAzyme via the catalytic hybridization reaction for activating the photosensitizer with multiplied guaranteed therapeutic operation. This l‐therapeutic strategy opens up great prospects for more precise diagnosis and customized gene silencing‐based therapy.
Nonparametric precedence chart with repetitive sampling
Authors: Malela‐Majika Jean‐Claude
Published: October 2022

In most real‐world applications, such as production and manufacturing processes, the underlying process distribution does not always follow a normal distribution. In such cases, statistical process control literature recommends the use of nonparametric (or distribution‐free) control charts. This paper introduces a new distribution‐free precedence chart using repetitive sampling. The performance of the proposed chart is investigated in terms of the average run‐length (
) profile. The expressions of the in‐control process probability and
of the proposed chart are introduced using integral formulas. The out‐of‐control performance of the new chart is compared to that of the existing precedence charts with and without runs‐rules. A numerical example is provided using real‐life data to demonstrate the application and implementation of the new chart.
Den supplementation for black bears in coastal British Columbia
Authors: Davis Helen
Published: October 2022

American black bears (Ursus americanus) require suitable den sites that provide security and cover to successfully survive the winter denning period. On Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada, black bears prefer to use cavities associated with large‐diameter hollow trees or structures derived from trees (i.e., cavities in or under logs, root boles and stumps) as den sites. Extensive harvesting of coastal forests has reduced the availability of natural den structures such that their supply may affect population sustainability. I attempted to develop new methods to address the declining supply of denning opportunities by creating and testing new den structures constructed in trees, stumps and from plastic. Between 2014–2021, I created or deployed and monitored 17 potential den structures in 2 study areas that were believed to have low den supply. I documented up to 51 visits by bears at each structure; every one of the video‐monitored structures was investigated at least 5 times. None of the plastic artificial den structures were used by bears, but an enhanced natural structure was used as a den over 4 consecutive winters. My work indicates that bears will find and investigate all natural or artificial denning structures in their environment, but artificial structures do not appear to be a viable method to mitigate losses of dens caused by forest harvesting.
The Role of Heritage in Post-War Reconciliation: Going Beyond World Heritage Sites
Authors: Hisari Lorika , Barrett-Casey Kristen , Fouseki Kalliopi
Published: October 2022

It is widely acknowledged that reconciliation and sustainable development are processes that necessitate involvement from local, national and international actors. However, with the attention of international actors overwhelmingly focused on World Heritage sites, this chapter seeks to examine the potential consequences of the disparity in treatment between those sites on the World Heritage List and those that are not but are still significant for their local communities. Kosovo and Iraq are the two cases we use to explore the role, use and treatment of heritage in post-war recovery and reconciliation and how this is affected by World Heritage status. Through an examination of heritage as a political process, we can approach a more in-depth understanding of how heritage shapes and reshapes the politics of post-war memory, inter-community relations, and the extent to which the international community uses World Heritage in these communities to mandate their own politics of remembrance. We argue that heritage can have a “pacifying” role and contribute to peacebuilding, but this will need active, transformative actions from UNESCO which go beyond the Convention and, if possible, beyond politically influenced decision-making. This chapter seeks to fill a gap in the literature of how the local, national and international interact in the post-war environment, as well as the true impact of potential inequalities created by World Heritage.
Shameful Traces and Image-Based Sexual Abuse: The Case of Tiziana Cantone
Authors: Romania Vincenzo
Published: October 2022

In this chapter, I reflect on the relationship between shame and digital traces in cases of image-based sexual abuse (IBSA) (I am thankful to Giovanni Zampieri, Dario Lucchesi and Massimo Cerulo for their invaluable help in writing and revising this chapter.). I will introduce the concept of shameful trace to describe records of diverse nature that can be used by a group of people participating in an effort to stigmatise an appearance, a conduct, an attitude or any other cause of social disapproval. Such a record is an object of shame only in a latent form. For it to become a shameful trace, it is necessary that it be shared and focussed on particular situations of moral condemnation.

This is neither a purely theoretical nor a purely empirical article. Rather, I first consider a case study of moral violence against a young Italian woman, Tiziana Cantone, who committed suicide in 2016 after the widespread non-consensual dissemination of intimate images. Further, I propose a theoretical understanding of the diffusion of shameful traces as a process of concerted social action including five elements: first, the ontology of the trace; second, the actors involved in its production and diffusion; third, the temporal and spatial coordinates of the shame diffusion and the technical or social means employed in it; and finally (fourth and fifth), the cultural and normative frameworks. Finally, I investigate how social bonds and sociotechnical and normative regulations favour the diffusion of shame in cases of IBSA.
The Personal Repertoire and Its Materiality: Resources, Means and Modalities of Languaging
Authors: Dufva Hannele
Published: October 2022

The chapter is a theoretical discussion of the concept ofpersonal repertoireand its application in the context of applied linguistics, particularly in the study of language learning and development. It questions conceptualisations that understand language learning as acquisition of abstract, decontextual and disembodied language knowledge and argues that learners’ know-how is not based on any kind of ‘mental grammar’, but on a personal repertoire of different multimodal semiotic resources. Bringing together ‘old’ and ‘new’ arguments for materialism, personal repertoires are examined focussing on how embodied agentive activity is intertwined with the socially structured environments and their specific material features, tools and artefacts. The repertoire, or the know-how that emerges, is not, strictly speaking, ‘language’, but rather, a meshwork of ‘skilled linguistic action’ in the analysis of which embodiment and materiality are highly significant considerations. The viewpoint transcends the alleged gap between social and cognitive orientations of language learning research and discusses learning and use of language from an ecological point of view as ‘languaging’.
Isospin-breaking effects in the two-pion contribution to hadronic vacuum polarization
Authors: Colangelo Gilberto , Hoferichter Martin , Kubis Bastian , Stoffer Peter
Published: October 2022

Abstract

Isospin-breaking (IB) effects in the two-pion contribution to hadronic vacuum polarization (HVP) can be resonantly enhanced, if related to the interference of the ρ(770) and ω(782) resonances. This particular IB contribution to the pion vector form factor and thus the line shape in e+e−→ π+π− can be described by the residue at the ω pole — the ρ-ω mixing parameter ϵω. Here, we argue that while in general analyticity requires this parameter to be real, the radiative channels π0γ, ππγ, ηγ can induce a small phase, whose size we estimate as δϵ = 3.5(1.0)° by using a narrow-width approximation for the intermediate-state vector mesons. We then perform fits to the e+e−→ π+π− data base and study the consequences for the two-pion HVP contribution to the anomalous magnetic moment of the muon, its IB part due to ρ-ω mixing, and the mass of the ω resonance. We find that the global fit does prefer a non-vanishing value of δϵ = 4.5(1.2)°, close to the narrow-resonance expectation, but with a large spread among the data sets, indicating systematic differences in the ρ-ω region.
The closed string field theory action vanishes
Authors: Erler Theodore
Published: October 2022

Abstract

Using the dilaton theorem, we show that the classical action of closed string field theory vanishes on-shell.
Master integrals for $$ \mathcal{O} $$(ααs) corrections to H → ZZ*
Authors: Chaubey Ekta , Kaur Mandeep , Shivaji Ambresh
Published: October 2022

Abstract

We present analytic results for all the Feynman integrals relevant for $$ \mathcal{O} $$
O
(ααs) virtual corrections to H → ZZ* decay. We use the method of differential equations to solve the master integrals while keeping the full dependence on the masses of all the particles, including those propagating in the loop. Due to the presence of four mass scales, we encounter multiple square roots. We argue that all the occurring square roots can not be rationalized at the same time as a simultaneous rationalization brings us to integrals over CY3 manifolds. Hence we rationalize only three square roots simultaneously and construct suitable ansätze to obtain dlog-forms containing the square roots after obtaining an epsilon-factorised form for the differential equations in D = 4 − 2ϵ dimensions. We present the alphabet and the analytic form of all the boundary constants that appear in the solutions of the differential equations. The results for master integrals are expressed in terms of Chen’s iterated integrals with dlog one-forms.
Restoring rotational invariance for lattice QCD propagators
Authors: de Soto F.
Published: October 2022

Abstract

This note presents a method to reduce the discretization errors appearing when solving a Quantum Field Theory in a hypercubic lattice in both position and momentum-space. The method exploits the artifacts that break rotational symmetry to recover rotationally invariant results for two-point Green functions. We show that a combination of the results obtained in position and momentum space can be useful to signal the presence of rotationally invariant artifacts making use of their approximate Fourier transforms in the continuum. The method will be introduced using a Klein-Gordon propagator, and a direct application to gluon propagator in quenched lattice QCD will be given.