bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
La invención de Carlos II. Apoteosis simbólica de la Casa de Austria. Víctor Mínguez
Authors: Chiva Beltrán Juan
Published: February 2014

Recensión crítica del libro de Víctor Mínguez: La invención de Carlos II. Apoteosis simbólica de la Casa de Austria, Madrid, Centro de Estudios de Europa Hispánica, 2013, pp. 401.
Adriano Junio. Emblemas. Estudio introductorio, traducción notas e índices. Beatriz Antón y Antonio Espigares
Authors: Rodríguez Martín Victoria , Senés Rodríguez Gema
Published: February 2014

Edición crítica del libro: Adriano Junio. Emblemas. Beatriz Antón (Estudio introductorio). Beatriz Antón y Antonio Espigares (Traducción, notas e índices), Zaragoza, Libros Pórtico, 2013, pp. 396.Nos encontramos ante la primera edición moderna y ante la primera traducción al castellano de una significativa obra de emblemática de un autor alabado y considerado ya en su época por su exquisita erudición. Estimamos que esta edición de los Emblemata de Adriano Junio merece los más sinceros elogios por la gran claridad expositiva y el acertado enfoque con que nos ilustra la introducción; y especialmente, por la esmerada traducción revestida de elegancia, precisión y fidelidad al texto. En suma, una edición acorde con la extraordinaria industria ac diligentia celebrada en el humanista holandés, y con la que los estudiosos e investigadores del género emblemático, o simplemente los que disfrutan con tales libros, han de sentirse satisfechos al comprobar que a este trabajo le cuadra bien el lema que preside el emblema III de Adriano Junio: Gloria immortalis labore parta.
Los Habsburgo. Arte y propaganda en la colección de grabados de la Biblioteca Casanatense de Roma. Pablo González Tornel (dir.)
Authors: Martínez Bonanad David
Published: February 2014

Recensión crítica del libro de Pablo González Tornel (dir.): Los Habsburgo. Arte y propaganda en la colección de grabados de la Biblioteca Casanatense de Roma, Castellón, Universitat Jaume I, 2013.
Sources of HIV incidence among stable couples in sub‐Saharan Africa
Authors: Chemaitelly Hiam , Awad Susanne F , Shelton James D , Abu‐Raddad Laith J
Published: February 2014

Introduction

The recent availability of efficacious prevention interventions among stable couples offers new opportunities for reducing HIV incidence in sub‐Saharan Africa. Understanding the dynamics of HIV incidence among stable couples is critical to inform HIV prevention strategy across sub‐Saharan Africa.

Methods

We quantified the sources of HIV incidence arising among stable couples in sub‐Saharan Africa using a cohort‐type mathematical model parameterized by nationally representative data. Uncertainty and sensitivity analyses were incorporated.

Results

HIV incidence arising among stable concordant HIV‐negative couples contribute each year, on average, 29.4% of total HIV incidence; of those, 22.5% (range: 11.1%–39.8%) are infections acquired by one of the partners from sources external to the couple, less than 1% are infections acquired by both partners from external sources within a year and 6.8% (range: 3.6%–11.6%) are transmissions to the uninfected partner in the couple in less than a year after the other partner acquired the infection from an external source. The mean contribution of stable HIV sero‐discordant couples to total HIV incidence is 30.4%, with most of those, 29.7% (range: 9.1%–47.9%), being due to HIV transmissions from the infected to the uninfected partner within the couple. The remaining incidence, 40.2% (range: 23.7%–64.6%), occurs among persons not in stable couples.

Conclusions

Close to two‐thirds of total HIV incidence in sub‐Saharan Africa occur among stable couples; however, only half of this incidence is attributed to HIV transmissions from the infected to the uninfected partner in the couple. The remaining incidence is acquired through extra‐partner sex. Substantial reductions in HIV incidence can be achieved only through a prevention approach that targets all modes of HIV exposure among stable couples and among individuals not in stable couples.
Source-side injection single-polysilicon split-gate flash memory
Authors: Yamauchi Yoshimitsu , Kamakura Yoshinari , Matsuoka Toshimasa , Ueda Naoki
Published: February 2014

The source-side injection single-polysilicon split-gate NOR (S4-NOR) flash memory is proposed for embedded applications. For the S4-NOR cell, the access and floating gates are patterned on the channel between the source and drain junctions with a gap length of 55 nm using conventional photolithography technology, and the floating gate is capacitively coupled to an n-well memory gate. This technology can improve the compatibility with a single-polysilicon CMOS logic process. The memory cell is programmed within 5 µs with a low drain current of 10 µA, and its program efficiency is insensitive to process parameters except gap length, which are suitable for embedded memories from the process control viewpoint in addition to low power consumption. Good reliability is also realized without the effect of gap oxide leakage. Furthermore, the performance and reliability of the S4-NOR cell can be improved by scaling the logic process without using any special process.
Physical understanding of hot carrier injection variability in deeply scaled nMOSFETs
Authors: Ma Lijuan , Ji Xiaoli , Chen Zhaoxing , Liao Yiming , Yan Feng , Song Yongliang , Guo Qiang
Published: February 2014

The saturation current variability σ(δI
dsat) and lifetime variability in hot carrier injection (HCI) have been investigated for deeply scaled nMOSFETs. It is found that both of them are getting worse with scaling down. The statistical analysis of the large data sets from various CMOS sizes shows that σ(δI
dsat) is dominated by the total number of Poisson-distributed defects generated by HCI stress and the length (L) and width (W) of these devices. We attempt to use a single parameter to accurately describe HCI variability in deeply scaled nMOSFETs.
Association Between Handgrip Strength and Mortality of Patients With Coronary Artery Disease: A Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Xiao Meiling , Lu Yu , Li Hongqiu , Zhao Zhonghai
Published: July 2024

Background

Muscular strength has been linked to increased risk of cardiovascular disease in the community population. The aim of this systematic review and meta‐analysis is to evaluate the association between weak handgrip strength (HGS) and mortality risk in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD).

Methods

To carry out the meta‐analysis, an extensive search was conducted on databases such as PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, Wanfang, and CNKI to identify observational studies with longitudinal follow‐up. Random‐effects models were used to combine the findings, taking into account the potential influence of heterogeneity.

Results

Eight observational studies involving 10 543 patients with CAD were included. During a mean follow‐up duration of 20.4 months, 1327 (12.6%) patients died. Pooled results showed that weak HGS at baseline was associated with an increased risk of all‐cause mortality during follow‐up (risk ratio [RR]: 1.95, 95% confidence interval: 1.50 to 2.55, p < 0.001; I2 = 62%). Subgroup analysis suggested a stronger association between weak HGS and increased mortality in older patients with CAD as compared to that of overall adult patients with CAD (RR: 3.01 vs. 1.60, p for subgroup difference = 0.004). Subgroup analyses according to study location, design, subtype of CAD, follow‐up duration, analytical model, and study quality scores showed similar results (p for subgroup difference all > 0.05).

Conclusions

Weak HGS at baseline is associated with an increased risk of mortality in patients with CAD, particularly in older patients with CAD.
Mercaptans in malodorants break disulfide bridges in human serum albumin and form adducts suitable as biomarkers of exposure in vitro
Authors: Sieber Paula Helena , Steinritz Dirk , Worek Franz , John Harald
Published: July 2024

Malodorants comprise notoriously smelling mercaptans and might be applied for crowd control. Because exposure to malodorants may lead to irritation of the respiratory system, choking, and coma, bioanalytical verification of poisoning might be required in a medical and forensic context. We herein present the detection and identification of novel biomarkers of exposure to ethyl mercaptan, n‐butyl mercaptan, tert‐butyl mercaptan, and iso‐amyl mercaptan. These alkyl thiol compounds were found to form disulfide adducts in human serum albumin (HSA) in plasma in vitro with the only non‐disulfide‐bridged Cys34 residue and with other residues being part of the disulfide‐bridged pattern in HSA. After proteinase K‐catalyzed proteolysis, adducts of all mercaptans were detected simultaneously as the tripeptide Cys34*ProPhe and the dipeptides Cys369*Tyr, ValCys316*, and Cysx*Ala (x denominates either Positions 91, 200, 253, 361, and/or 448) by a sensitive micro‐liquid chromatography–electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry (μLC‐ESI MS/MS) method working in the scheduled multiple reaction monitoring (sMRM) mode. Time‐ and concentration‐dependent adduct formations while exposure and proteolysis were investigated and the suitability of adducts as biomarkers of exposure was elaborated. Adducts at Cys34 showed the lowest limits of identification (LOIs, 6 nM to 1.2 μM mercaptan in plasma) and superior stability in plasma at 37°C. Therefore, Cys34*ProPhe appears as the most promising target to prove exposure to mercaptans at least in vitro.
Dos nuevas especies de Paepalanthus Kunth (Eriocaulaceae) de Cuba oriental
Authors: Géigel Lutgarda González
Published: July 2024

Se describen dos nuevas especies de Paepalanthus Kunth para la región oriental de Cuba: Paepalanthus moaensis González Géigel y P. nipensis González Géigel. Se discute la posición sistemática de las mismas.
Revisión crítica del género Lyonia Nutt. (Ericaceae) en Cuba
Authors: Iturralde Rosalina Berazaín
Published: July 2024

So estudian y so discuten los caracteres morfológicos críticos empleados para la identificación de las especies cubanas de Lyonia en los recientes trabajos. Se amplían las área de distribución.
Beitrag zur Kenntnis der Pilzflora kubas. IV.
Authors: Arnold Günter R. W.
Published: July 2024

Zusammenfasung

Folgende Neufunde für die Pilzflora Kubas werden vorgestellt: Leptosphaerulina australis Mc Alpine, Leucocoprinus birnbaumii (Corda) Sing., L. fragilissimus (Rav.) Pat., Sympodiophora mycophila (Tubaki) Deighton et Pirozynski, Cladobolryum odorum G. Arnold sp. nov., Ramichloridium cf. schulzeri (Sacc.) de Hoog.
“It's like a guessing game”: Implementation of multiple sign systems in EFL Reading curriculum for undergraduates in Taiwan
Authors: Ben‐Said Slim , Fu Jo Shan , Yeh Hui‐Chin
Published: July 2024

This study explores the integration of multiple sign systems within the English as a Foreign Language (EFL) reading curriculum for undergraduates in Taiwan, addressing varied learning styles that are often overlooked by conventional curricular methods. The purpose is to investigate how incorporating semiotics can enhance learning engagement and effectiveness by utilizing diverse sign systems such as art, music, and movement. Data were collected through student‐created artifacts, self‐reflection logs, and evaluations of learning processes from 57 freshmen participating in literature circles and sign‐system activities in a university course. Analysis was conducted using Glaser and Strauss's Constant Comparative Method, identifying themes such as interactive teaching methods and diverse engagement strategies. The findings demonstrate that utilizing multiple sign systems enriches students' engagement and comprehension, suggesting the need for broader application of semiotics in education to cater to diverse learning preferences and enhance overall educational effectiveness.
Feasibility of interleaved multislice averaged magnetization inversion‐recovery acquisitions of the spinal cord
Authors: Weigel Matthias , Celicanin Zarko , Haas Tanja , Bieri Oliver
Published: July 2024

Purpose

To establish an interleaved multislice variant of the averaged magnetization inversion‐recovery acquisitions (AMIRA) approach for 2D spinal cord imaging with increased acquisition efficiency compared with the conventional 2D single‐slice approach(es), and to determine essential prerequisites for a working interleaved multislice AMIRA approach in practice.

Methods

The general AMIRA concept is based on an inversion recovery–prepared, segmented, and time‐limited cine balanced SSFP sequence, generating images of different contrast. For AMIRA imaging of multiple, independent slices in a 2D interleaved fashion, a slice loop within the acquisition loops was programmed. The former non‐selective inversions were replaced with slice‐selective inversions with user‐definable slice thickness.

Results

The thickness of the slice‐selective inversion in 2D interleaved multislice AMIRA should be doubled compared with the manufacturer's standard setting to avoid an increased sensitivity to flow and pulsation effects particularly in the CSF. However, this solution also limits its practical applicability, as slices located at directly adjacent vertebrae cannot be imaged together. Successful interleaved two‐slice AMIRA imaging for a “reference” in vivo protocol with 0.50 × 0.50 mm2 in‐plane resolution and 8‐mm slice thickness is demonstrated, therefore halving its acquisition time per slice from 3 min down to 1.5 min.

Conclusion

The investigated 2D interleaved two‐slice AMIRA variant facilitates spinal cord imaging that maintains similar contrast and the same resolution as the conventional 2D single‐slice AMIRA approach, but does so with a halved acquisition time.
Improving high‐temperature capacitive energy storage of biaxially oriented polypropylene through titanium dioxide deposition layer by atmospheric pressure plasma jets
Authors: Lv Li , Zhang Chuansheng , Zhang Cheng , Xu Shaojun , Xing Zhaoliang , Shao Tao
Published: July 2024

Polymer film capacitors experience a sharp decrease in charge–discharge efficiency and energy density under high‐temperature environments, which remains an urgent issue to address. In this article, atmospheric pressure plasma jet (APPJ) is used to deposit TiO2 to improve the energy storage performance of biaxially oriented polypropylene (BOPP) film in high‐temperature environment. The APPJ uses argon as the working gas and adopts a multielectrode grounding configuration to obtain the stable jet state. The precursor solution is prepared using tetraethyl titanate (TET) mixed with ethanol in a ratio of 5:3. The results show that the charge–discharge efficiency and discharge energy density (from 3.1 to 5.7 J cm–3) of BOPP films deposited by APPJ are improved at 120°C.
Aromaticity of tropylium derivatives: When and why might captodative structures be preferred over the isomeric push‐pull structures?
Authors: Shainyan Bagrat A.
Published: July 2024

An intriguing question in the general problem of aromaticity is whether captodative aromatic systems with the donor and acceptor substituents at the same carbon of the CC bond can be more stable than the π‐conjugated push‐pull counterparts? The analysis of electronic, magnetic, and structural criteria of aromaticity showed that for conventional organic substituents XO, TfN, (NC)2C, (NO2)2C, Tf2C, the push‐pull tropylidene derivatives [tropylium]+CHCHX− are expectedly more stable than their captodative isomers [tropylium]+C(X−)CH2, with the lowest ΔE for the most strong acceptor Tf2C. A different behavior is observed for XMHlg3 (MB, Al; HlgF, Cl). They are not only structurally and magnetically most aromatic in both series but show the inverse stability of the push‐pull and captodative isomers, the latter being more stable by up to 10 kcal/mol (in gas).The difference between the MHlg3 groups and conventional organic groups is that in the latter the electron density is transferred to the π‐system of the substituent, while the former can accept it only to the σ*(CM) orbital. Thus, when the electron donor and acceptor effects are separated between the σ and π systems, captodative isomers can be more stable than their push‐pull isomers with more extended conjugation.
Development of the headspace gas chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry method for ethylene oxide and ethylene chlorohydrin residue in medical devices
Authors: Chiang Yi Chun , Fang Ming Chih , Yang Chuan Kai , Wang Sheng Wei , Tseng Su Hsiang
Published: July 2024

Rationale

Ethylene oxide (EO) sterilization is commonly employed for the sterilization of medical devices and has a very high market share. However, EO and its metabolite ethylene chlorohydrin (ECH) are toxic to humans. In compliance with the classification and residue limits of medical devices defined by ISO 10993‐7, our study established two extraction methods for the testing of EO and ECH.

Methods

The first method involves simulated‐use extraction using water as the extraction solvent. While the second, exhaustive extraction, directly extracts sample through headspace sampling analysis. Gas chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry in multiple reaction monitoring mode was utilized, requiring only 16 min. Then, the developed method was applied to assess 10 commercially available medical devices sterilized by EO.

Results

In simulated‐use extraction, calibration curves were evaluated in the range of 1–100 and 5–500 μg for EO and ECH, respectively (r > 0.999). Inter‐day recoveries ranged from 85.0% to 95.2% and from 94.8% to 102.4%. In exhaustive extraction, calibration curves spanned 0.5–50 and 2–200 μg for EO and ECH, respectively (r > 0.999). Inter‐day recoveries ranged from 101.6% to 102.1% for EO and from 98.1% to 102.2% for ECH. After analysis of the 10 commercially available medical devices, two cotton swabs were found to have ECH of 35.1 and 28.4 μg per device, and four medical devices were found to have EO with concentration below the limit of quantification. Meanwhile, we found that the EO internal standard (propylene oxide) recommended by ISO 10993‐7 had interference problems with other similar substances and was not suitable as an internal standard for EO.

Conclusions

This study offers a sensitive and straightforward analytical approach to EO and ECH residues in a variety of medical devices. In addition, the results show that the EO or ECH content of these types of medical devices in our study falls below the regulatory limits, therefore instilling confidence among consumers regarding their safe use.
Nezha‐SeaDart: A tail‐sitting fixed‐wing vertical takeoff and landing hybrid aerial underwater vehicle
Authors: Jin Yufei , Zeng Zheng , Lian Lian
Published: July 2024

This paper presents the design, manufacturing and testing of a tail‐sitting vertically takeoff and landing fixed‐wing hybrid aerial underwater vehicle (HAUV) called Nezha‐SeaDart. Nezha‐SeaDart can vertically take off and land from ground and water, cruise in the air with lift generated by the wings, seamlessly cross the water–air interface and operate underwater like an autonomous underwater vehicle. Nezha‐SeaDart underwent a 10‐day field test in China's Thousand Islands Lake of Zhejiang Province, proving its ability to perform full cross‐domain missions. This research has the following contributions to the field of HAUV. (i) A working prototype of vertical takeoff and landing tail‐sitting HAUV with all basic functions verified and full mission cycle capability demonstrated in a field test. (ii) An HAUV that travels fast both in the air and underwater. (iii) An HAUV capable of autonomous and seamless water exit that does not rely on a dedicated propulsion system. (iv) A method of sizing the vehicle's wing and thrust considering aerial cruises, underwater operations, and seamless water exits.
Sustainability assessment of demolition based on quantitative external costs
Authors: Li Wang , Ueda Tamon
Published: July 2024

Rapid urbanization brings us challenges, but it is meant to bring us well‐being. The short lifetime of buildings and urban renewal policies have led to the demand for demolition. The aim of this study is to demonstrate the benefits of implementing an advanced demolition system and to fill the sustainability assessment gap in the demolition sector. This approach will help reduce obstacles to conducting sustainable demolition. To achieve this goal, an assessment system based on external costs was built, which mainly focused on the costs of damage due to global warming and environmental pollution. A case study employing two advanced demolition systems was used to show how the assessment works and the effects of demolition. According to the assessment results, the total external damage for the two advanced demolition systems is 37.6% and 19.6% of that of the conventional demolition method. Excellent waste management causes damage due to global warming in only 9.4% of conventional demolition projects, but noise impacts are still a crucial issue in the demolition field, as they contribute to 74.4% of the total damage. Based on the case study results, the benefits of sustainable demolition and the future of demolition are revealed. Further development should be sought for future demolition through new design theory or new technology.
Arithmetic Solving in Z3
Authors: Bjørner Nikolaj , Nachmanson Lev
Published: July 2024

The theory of arithmetic is integral to many uses of SMT solvers. Z3 has implemented native solvers for arithmetic reasoning since its first release. We present a full re-implementation of Z3’s original arithmetic solver. It is based on substantial experiences from user feedback, engineering and experimentation. While providing a comprehensive overview of the main components we emphasize selected new insights we arrived at while developing and testing the solver.
Relational Synthesis of Recursive Programs via Constraint Annotated Tree Automata
Authors: Miltner Anders , Wang Ziteng , Chaudhuri Swarat , Dillig Isil
Published: July 2024

In this paper, we present a new synthesis method based on the novel concept of a constraint annotated tree automaton (CATA). A CATA is a variant of a finite tree automaton (FTA) where the acceptance of a term by the automaton is conditioned upon the logical satisfiability of a formula. In the context of program synthesis, CATAs allow the construction of a more precise version space than FTAs by ruling out programs that make inconsistent assumptions about the unknown semantics of functions under synthesis. We apply our proposed algorithm to synthesizing recursive (or mutually recursive) procedures from relational specifications and demonstrate that our method allows solving synthesis problems that are beyond the scope of existing approaches.
Trauma-related preventable death; data analysis and panel review at a level 1 trauma centre in Amsterdam, the Netherlands
Authors: Mikdad S. , Hakkenbrak N. A.G. , Zuidema W. P. , Reijnders U. J.L. , de Wit R. J. , Jansen E. H. , Schwarte L. A. , Schouten J. W. , Bloemers F. W. , Giannakopoulos G. F. , Halm J. A.
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Trauma-related death is used as a parameter to evaluate the quality of trauma care and identify cases in which mortality could have been prevented under optimal trauma care conditions. The aim of this study was to identify trauma-related preventable death (TRPD) within our institute by an external expert panel and to evaluate inter-panel reliability.

Methods

Trauma-related deaths between the 1st of January 2020 and the 1st of February 2022 at the Amsterdam University Medical Centre were identified. The severely injured patients (injury severity score ≥ 16) were enrolled for preventability analysis by an external multidisciplinary panel, consisting of a trauma surgeon, anaesthesiologist, emergency physician, neurosurgeon, and forensic physician. Case descriptions were provided, and panellists were asked to classify deaths as non-preventable, potentially preventable, and preventable. Agreements between the five observers were assessed by Fleiss kappa statistics.

Results

In total 95 trauma-related deaths were identified. Of which 36 fatalities were included for analysis, the mean age was 55.3 years (± 24.5), 69.4% were male and 88.9% suffered blunt trauma. The mean injury severity score was 35.3 (± 15.3). Interobserver agreement within the external panel was moderate for survivability (Fleiss kappa 0.474) but low for categorical preventable death classification (Fleiss kappa 0.298). Most of the disagreements were between non-preventable or potentially preventable with care that could have been improved.

Conclusion

Multidisciplinary panel review has a moderate inter-observer agreement regarding survivability and low agreement regarding categorical preventable death classification. A valid definition and classification of TRPD is required to improve inter-observer agreement and quality of trauma care.
Music reward sensitivity is associated with greater information transfer capacity within dorsal and motor white matter networks in musicians
Authors: Matthews Tomas E. , Lumaca Massimo , Witek Maria A. G. , Penhune Virginia B. , Vuust Peter
Published: July 2024

There are pronounced differences in the degree to which individuals experience music-induced pleasure which are linked to variations in structural connectivity between auditory and reward areas. However, previous studies exploring the link between white matter structure and music reward sensitivity (MRS) have relied on standard diffusion tensor imaging methods, which present challenges in terms of anatomical accuracy and interpretability. Further, the link between MRS and connectivity in regions outside of auditory-reward networks, as well as the role of musical training, have yet to be investigated. Therefore, we investigated the relation between MRS and structural connectivity in a large number of directly segmented and anatomically verified white matter tracts in musicians (n = 24) and non-musicians (n = 23) using state-of-the-art tract reconstruction and fixel-based analysis. Using a manual tract-of-interest approach, we additionally tested MRS-white matter associations in auditory-reward networks seen in previous studies. Within the musician group, there was a significant positive relation between MRS and fiber density and cross section in the right middle longitudinal fascicle connecting auditory and inferior parietal cortices. There were also positive relations between MRS and fiber-bundle cross-section in tracts connecting the left thalamus to the ventral precentral gyrus and connecting the right thalamus to the right supplementary motor area, however, these did not survive FDR correction. These results suggest that, within musicians, dorsal auditory and motor networks are crucial to MRS, possibly via their roles in top-down predictive processing and auditory-motor transformations.
A strategic options game approach to support PPP investment decisions under risk-sharing mechanisms
Authors: Biancardi Marta , Bufalo Michele , Di Bari Antonio , Villani Giovanni
Published: July 2024

The need to obtain financial funds to pursue public utility investments implies the generation of Public-Private Partnership (PPP) projects. The PPP framework can involve risk-sharing mechanisms between public administration and private sector to encourage private investors to fund these projects. However, these risk-sharing mechanisms, such as Minimum Revenue Guarantee or Revenue Cap (RC), could generate opportunistic behaviors. For this reason, we can set this problem as a game in which government and private investors would act as players. This paper proposes a mathematical model to evaluate the PPP projects through a combination of Game Theory (GT) and Real Options Approach (ROA). The ROA is needed to price the uncertainty that affects PPP investments, and the GT captures the strategic interactions between public and private sectors. A case study on a wastewater treatment project is developed to apply the model we proposed.
Diverse carbon sources impact the biofloc system in brackish groundwater altering water quality, fish performance, immune status, antioxidants, plasma biochemistry, pathogenic bacterial load and organ histomorphology in Florida red tilapia
Authors: El-Dahhar Alaa A. , Elhetawy Ashraf. I. G. , Shawky Wael A. , El-Zaeem Samy Y. , Abdel-Rahim Mohamed M.
Published: July 2024

A 75-day rearing trial was completed to investigate the effectiveness of different biofloc systems (BFT) on the water quality, growth performance and health status of Florida red tilapia (FRT) grown in brackish groundwater (BGW). The trial consisted of the control and three types of BFT using different carbon sources (CS), starch (ST), rice bran (RB), and wheat bran (WB) in triplicate, expressed as BF-0, BF-ST, BF-RB, and BF-WB, respectively. Fish weighing 4.98 ± 0.01 g/fish were stocked in 250-L tanks at an initial stocking density of 25 fish. The findings demonstrated significant reductions in inorganic nitrogen by-product (NH3 and NO2) levels in all BFT groups compared to the control, with an increase in floc volume and floc nutritional value, in the BF-ST and BF-RB groups. Furthermore, fish in the BF-ST and BF-RB groups showed significant improvements in fish growth indices (final weight, weight gain, and FCR). Fish in the BFT groups showed significant improvement in kidney function indices and plasma lipids with no significant changes in liver enzyme activity compared to the control. Lower stress markers (glucose and cortisol) and higher digestive enzyme activity (lipase and protease), innate immune parameters and antioxidants were reported in fish of the BF-ST and BF-RB groups compared to the control fish. Histopathological inspection revealed that the BF-ST fish exhibited healthier livers and shared healthier intestines with BF-RB fish compared to the control group. In conclusion, RB is an appropriate CS with BGW for desert aquaculture due to its availability, inexpensiveness, and comparable outcomes with ST.
Predicting Intraindividual Change in Satisfaction with Life During COVID-19: A Prospective Study of Swiss Older Adults with Differing Levels of Childhood Adversity
Authors: Thoma Myriam V. , Bernays Florence , Fuhrer Joffrey , Höltge Jan , Salas Castillo Aileen N. , Rohner Shauna L.
Published: July 2024

Objectives This study examined intraindividual change in satisfaction with life (SWL) in Swiss older adults before, during, and after COVID-19. It assessed whether predictors of adaptation influenced SWL stability, and whether this differed depending on adverse childhood experiences (ACE). Methods SWL was assessed eight times over a 21-month period. ACE, emotion regulation, meaning in life, and subjective socio-economic status (SES) were assessed as predictors. Data were analyzed using growth curve modeling. Results The sample consisted of two groups: A risk group (RG: n = 111, Mage = 69.4 years) comprised of individuals with a high risk of having been exposed to ACE, and a (low-risk) control group (CG: n = 120, Mage = 70.3 years). Intraindividual change in SWL was predicted by (presence of) meaning in life only in the RG, and by subjective SES only in the CG. Conclusion Results identified predictors of stable SWL trajectories and the potential for positive psychological functioning into later life, despite past and current prolonged adversity.
The 234U/238U activity ratio as an indicator of redox surface in the Allouga Quarry face, Southwestern Sinai, Egypt
Authors: Ibrahim Eman M.
Published: July 2024

The234U/238U activity ratio can be used to delineate the last redox surface between the lower and middle members of Um Bogma Formation in Allouga Quarry, southwestern Sinai, Egypt. The activity concentrations of radionuclides were measured for nine samples collected from the base to top of the geologic section. The234U/238U activity ratio was used to express the oxidation or reduction prevailing. The lower (base) samples showed oxidation state, while the upper (top) samples showed reduction state. From uranium age results, the uranium leaching process in lower member is more recent than the uranium accumulation process in middle member.
Influence of extruder geometry and bio-ink type in extrusion-based bioprinting via an in silico design tool
Authors: Chirianni Francesco , Vairo Giuseppe , Marino Michele
Published: July 2024

Planning a smooth-running and effective extrusion-based bioprinting process is a challenging endeavor due to the intricate interplay among process variables (e.g., printing pressure, nozzle diameter, extrusion velocity, and mass flow rate). A priori predicting how process variables relate each other is complex due to both the non-Newtonian response of bio-inks and the extruder geometries. In addition, ensuring high cell viability is of paramount importance, as bioprinting procedures expose cells to stresses that can potentially induce mechanobiological damage. Currently, in laboratory settings, bioprinting planning is often conducted through expensive and time-consuming trial-and-error procedures. In this context, an in silico strategy has been recently proposed by the authors for a clear and streamlined pathway towards bioprinting process planning (Chirianni et al. in Comput Methods Appl Mech Eng 419:116685, 2024. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cma.2023.116685). The aim of this work is to investigate on the influence of bio-ink polymer type and of cartridge-nozzle connection shape on the setting of key process variables by adopting such in silico strategy. In detail, combinations of two different bio-inks and three different extruder geometries are considered. Nomograms are built as graphical fast design tools, thus informing how the printing pressure, the mass flow rate and the cell viability vary with extrusion velocity and nozzle diameter.
Journalism and public trust in science
Authors: Schipani Vanessa
Published: July 2024

Journalists are often the adult public’s central source of scientific information, which means that their reporting shapes the relationship the public has with science. Yet philosophers of science largely ignore journalistic communication in their inquiries about trust in science. This paper aims to help fill this gap in research by comparing journalistic norm conflicts that arose when reporting on COVID-19 and tobacco, among other policy-relevant scientific topics. I argue that the public’s image of scientists– as depositories of indisputable, value-free facts, trustworthy only when in consensus– makes it particularly difficult for journalists to ethically communicate policy-relevant science rife with disagreement. In doing so, I show how journalists, like scientists, face the problem of inductive risk in such cases. To overcome this problem, I sketch a model of trust in science that is grounded in an alternative image of scientists– what I call the responsiveness model of trust in science. By highlighting the process of science over its product, the responsiveness model requires scientists to respond to empirical evidence and the public’s values to warrant the public’s trust. I then show why this model requires journalists to be the public’s watchdogs by verifying and communicating whether scientists are being properly responsive both epistemically and non-epistemically.
Endogenous beliefs and social influence in a simple macroeconomic framework
Authors: Terranova Roberta
Published: July 2024

This paper incorporates endogenously emerging beliefs and social influence into a stylized Islands model characterized by uncertainty, strategic complementarity, and frictional coordination. Individuals in the model hold pessimistic, neutral, or optimistic beliefs, which can change over time due to economic outcomes and social influence. The study aims to assess how social influence affects agents’ coordination, economic stability, and welfare. We show that rational expectations are unstable in the absence of social influence. Agents coordinate over time on a pessimistic and highly inefficient stationary state in which output and welfare are below the rational expectations equilibrium. As the importance of social influence grows, the steady state becomes even more pessimistic. As it crosses a certain threshold, additional equilibria emerge. As a result, the economy may converge to the rational expectations steady state, in which welfare is highest, or to a much more optimistic equilibrium, which is not necessarily more efficient. Finally, we show that by reducing higher-order uncertainty, social influence can act as a coordination device with positive effects on welfare.
Automatic robotic doppler sonography of leg arteries
Authors: Osburg Jonas , Scheibert Alexandra , Horn Marco , Pater Ravn , Ernst Floris
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Robot-assisted systems offer an opportunity to support the diagnostic and therapeutic treatment of vascular diseases to reduce radiation exposure and support the limited medical staff in vascular medicine. In the diagnosis and follow-up care of vascular pathologies, Doppler ultrasound has become the preferred diagnostic tool. The study presents a robotic system for automatic Doppler ultrasound examinations of patients’ leg vessels.

Methods

The robotic system consists of a redundant 7 DoF serial manipulator, to which a 3D ultrasound probe is attached. A compliant control was employed, whereby the transducer was guided along the vessel with a defined contact force. Visual servoing was used to correct the position of the probe during the scan so that the vessel can always be properly visualized. To track the vessel’s position, methods based on template matching and Doppler sonography were used.

Results

Our system was able to successfully scan the femoral artery of seven volunteers automatically for a distance of 20 cm. In particular, our approach using Doppler ultrasound data showed high robustness and an accuracy of 10.7 (±3.1) px in determining the vessel’s position and thus outperformed our template matching approach, whereby an accuracy of 13.9 (±6.4) px was achieved.

Conclusions

The developed system enables automated robotic ultrasound examinations of vessels and thus represents an opportunity to reduce radiation exposure and staff workload. The integration of Doppler ultrasound improves the accuracy and robustness of vessel tracking, and could thus contribute to the realization of routine robotic vascular examinations and potential endovascular interventions.
Prevalence and Correlates of Self-Reported ADHD Symptoms in Bariatric Patients: Focus on Mood and Anxiety Comorbidity, Disordered Eating, and Temperamental Traits
Authors: Brancati Giulio Emilio , Cosentino Viarda , Barbuti Margherita , Weiss Francesco , Calderone Alba , Fierabracci Paola , Salvetti Guido , Santini Ferruccio , Perugi Giulio
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. A positive association between ADHD and obesity has been observed, especially in adult samples. In this study, prevalence and correlates of self-reported symptoms indicative of a positive screening for ADHD were examined in patients seeking bariatric treatment.

Material and Methods

The study sample was composed of 260 adult patients with obesity referred for bariatric surgery to the Obesity Center of the Endocrinology Unit in Pisa University Hospital between January 2006 and November 2016 (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m2; mean ± standard deviation = 46.27 ± 7.45 kg/m2). ADHD symptoms were identified using ADHD Symptom Check‐List‐90‐R Screening Scale. Night-eating, binge-eating/purging behaviors, and temperamental and character traits were assessed in a subsample of 95 patients.

Results

Thirty participants had a positive screening for ADHD (11.5%, 95% CI = 7.9–16.1%). Patients with a positive screening showed significantly higher rates of anxiety disorders (40% vs. 16.5%, χ2 = 7.97, p = 0.005) panic disorder (40% vs. 14.3%, χ2 = 10.48, p = 0.001), and a higher severity of psychopathological symptoms and sleep disturbances than those without. In subsample analyses, ADHD symptoms severity was associated with more bulimic behaviors (r = 0.31–0.46), greater harm avoidance (r = 0.45–0.66), less self-directedness (r =  − 0.44–0.63), and cooperativeness (r =  − 0.26–0.42).

Conclusion

ADHD symptoms may be common in patients with obesity seeking bariatric treatment and are positively associated with disordered eating, internalizing features, and maladaptive character traits.

Level of Evidence: V, cross sectional descriptive study.

Graphical Abstract
Structural insight into palladium-nickel clusters over mordenite zeolite for carbene-insertion reaction
Authors: Li Guangchao , Ho Ping-Luen Baron , Ng Bryan Kit Yue , Wu Tai-Sing , Rymarz Pawel , Tsang Shik Chi Edman
Published: July 2024

The advancement of heterogeneous catalysts incorporating metal clusters in the nanometric size range has garnered significant attention due to their extraordinary catalytic activity and selectivity. The detailed characterization and understanding of the atomic structure of these metal clusters within catalysts is crucial for elucidating the underlying reaction mechanisms. In the present study, a distinctive three-atom PdNi cluster, characterized by two Pd atoms at terminal positions and a central Ni atom, was synthesized over mordenite zeolite. The presence of atomic PdNi clusters within the eight-membered ring side pocket area was confirmed by multiple advanced analytical techniques, including magic-angle spinning nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, synchrotron X-ray powder diffraction, extended X-ray absorption fine structure spectroscopy, and high-angle annular dark-field scanning transmission electron microscopy. The catalytic activity of the confined active species was examined by the carbene-mediated reactions of ethyl-2-diazoacetate to ethyl-2-methoxyacetate as a model reaction. Compared to the Pd-mordenite and Ni-mordenite, the PdNi-mordenite catalyst incorporates a PdNi cluster, which demonstrates a superior performance, achieving 100% conversion and high selectivity under the same reaction conditions. Our study elucidates the potential of constructing bimetallic clusters in zeolites, providing valuable insights for developing new heterogeneous catalysts applicable to a wide range of catalytic processes.
Metabolic dysfunction associated fatty liver disease in healthy weight individuals
Authors: Méndez-Sánchez Nahum , Brouwer Willem Pieter , Lammert Frank , Yilmaz Yusuf
Published: July 2024

Metabolic dysfunction associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) is an increasing public health problem, affecting one third of the global population. Contrary to conventional wisdom, MAFLD is not exclusive to obese or overweight individuals. Epidemiological studies have revealed a remarkable prevalence among healthy weight individuals, leading investigations into the genetic, lifestyle, and dietary factors that contribute to the development of MAFLD in this population. This shift in perspective requires reconsideration of preventive strategies, diagnostic criteria and therapeutic approaches tailored to address the unique characteristics of MAFLD healthy weight individuals. It also underscores the importance of widespread awareness and education, within the medical community and among the general population, to promote a more inclusive understanding of liver metabolic disorders. With this review, we aim to provide a comprehensive exploration of MAFLD in healthy weight individuals, encompassing epidemiological, pathophysiological, and clinical aspects.
A quantum sensor for atomic-scale electric and magnetic fields
Authors: Esat Taner , Borodin Dmitriy , Oh Jeongmin , Heinrich Andreas J. , Tautz F. Stefan , Bae Yujeong , Temirov Ruslan
Published: July 2024

The detection of faint magnetic fields from single-electron and nuclear spins at the atomic scale is a long-standing challenge in physics. While current mobile quantum sensors achieve single-electron spin sensitivity, atomic spatial resolution remains elusive for existing techniques. Here we fabricate a single-molecule quantum sensor at the apex of the metallic tip of a scanning tunnelling microscope by attaching Fe atoms and a PTCDA (3,4,9,10-perylenetetracarboxylic-dianhydride) molecule to the tip apex. We address the molecular spin by electron spin resonance and achieve ~100 neV resolution in energy. In a proof-of-principle experiment, we measure the magnetic and electric dipole fields emanating from a single Fe atom and an Ag dimer on an Ag(111) surface with sub-angstrom spatial resolution. Our method enables atomic-scale quantum sensing experiments of electric and magnetic fields on conducting surfaces and may find applications in the sensing of spin-labelled biomolecules and of spin textures in quantum materials.
Structural basis for activity switching in polymerases determining the fate of let-7 pre-miRNAs
Authors: Yi Gangshun , Ye Mingda , Carrique Loic , El-Sagheer Afaf , Brown Tom , Norbury Chris J. , Zhang Peijun , Gilbert Robert J. C.
Published: July 2024

Tumor-suppressor let-7 pre-microRNAs (miRNAs) are regulated by terminal uridylyltransferases TUT7 and TUT4 that either promote let-7 maturation by adding a single uridine nucleotide to the pre-miRNA 3′ end or mark them for degradation by the addition of multiple uridines. Oligo-uridylation is increased in cells by enhanced TUT7/4 expression and especially by the RNA-binding pluripotency factor LIN28A. Using cryogenic electron microscopy, we captured high-resolution structures of active forms of TUT7 alone, of TUT7 plus pre-miRNA and of both TUT7 and TUT4 bound with pre-miRNA and LIN28A. Our structures reveal that pre-miRNAs engage the enzymes in fundamentally different ways depending on the presence of LIN28A, which clamps them onto the TUTs to enable processive 3′ oligo-uridylation. This study reveals the molecular basis for mono- versus oligo-uridylation by TUT7/4, as determined by the presence of LIN28A, and thus their mechanism of action in the regulation of cell fate and in cancer.
Poised PABP–RNA hubs implement signal-dependent mRNA decay in development
Authors: Modic Miha , Kuret Klara , Steinhauser Sebastian , Faraway Rupert , van Genderen Emiel , Ruiz de Los Mozos Igor , Novljan Jona , Vičič Žiga , Lee Flora C. Y. , ten Berge Derk , Luscombe Nicholas M. , Ule Jernej
Published: July 2024

Signaling pathways drive cell fate transitions largely by changing gene expression. However, the mechanisms for rapid and selective transcriptome rewiring in response to signaling cues remain elusive. Here we use deep learning to deconvolve both the sequence determinants and the trans-acting regulators that trigger extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK)–mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase (MEK)-induced decay of the naive pluripotency mRNAs. Timing of decay is coupled to embryo implantation through ERK–MEK phosphorylation of LIN28A, which repositions pLIN28A to the highly A+U-rich 3′ untranslated region (3′UTR) termini of naive pluripotency mRNAs. Interestingly, these A+U-rich 3′UTR termini serve as poly(A)-binding protein (PABP)-binding hubs, poised for signal-induced convergence with LIN28A. The multivalency of AUU motifs determines the efficacy of pLIN28A–PABP convergence, which enhances PABP 3′UTR binding, decreases the protection of poly(A) tails and activates mRNA decay to enable progression toward primed pluripotency. Thus, the signal-induced convergence of LIN28A with PABP–RNA hubs drives the rapid selection of naive mRNAs for decay, enabling the transcriptome remodeling that ensures swift developmental progression.