bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Three-dimensional non-Abelian quantum holonomy
Authors: Neef Vera , Pinske Julien , Klauck Friederike , Teuber Lucas , Kremer Mark , Ehrhardt Max , Heinrich Matthias , Scheel Stefan , Szameit Alexander
Published: December 2022

When a quantum system undergoes slow changes, the evolution of its state depends only on the corresponding trajectory in Hilbert space. This phenomenon, known as quantum holonomy, brings to light the geometric aspects of quantum theory. Depending on the number of degrees of freedom involved, these purely geometric entities can be scalar or belong to a matrix-valued symmetry group. In their various forms, holonomies are vital elements in the description of the fundamental forces in particle physics as well as theories beyond the standard model such as loop quantum gravity or topological quantum field theory. Yet, implementing matrix-valued holonomies thus far has proven challenging, being further complicated by the difficulties involved in identifying suitable dark states for their construction in bosonic systems. Here we develop a representation of holonomic theory founded on the Heisenberg picture and leverage these insights for the experimental realization of a three-dimensional quantum holonomy. Its non-Abelian geometric phase is implemented via the judicious manipulation of bosonic modes constructed from indistinguishable photons and obeys the U(3) symmetry relevant to the strong interaction. Our findings could enable the experimental study of higher-dimensional non-Abelian gauge symmetries and the exploration of exotic physics on a photonic chip.
The HA4M dataset: Multi-Modal Monitoring of an assembly task for Human Action recognition in Manufacturing
Authors: Cicirelli Grazia , Marani Roberto , Romeo Laura , Domínguez Manuel García , Heras Jónathan , Perri Anna G. , D’Orazio Tiziana
Published: December 2022

This paper introduces the Human Action Multi-Modal Monitoring in Manufacturing (HA4M) dataset, a collection of multi-modal data relative to actions performed by different subjects building an Epicyclic Gear Train (EGT). In particular, 41 subjects executed several trials of the assembly task, which consists of 12 actions. Data were collected in a laboratory scenario using a Microsoft® Azure Kinect which integrates a depth camera, an RGB camera, and InfraRed (IR) emitters. To the best of authors’ knowledge, the HA4M dataset is the first multi-modal dataset about an assembly task containing six types of data: RGB images, Depth maps, IR images, RGB-to-Depth-Aligned images, Point Clouds and Skeleton data. These data represent a good foundation to develop and test advanced action recognition systems in several fields, including Computer Vision and Machine Learning, and application domains such as smart manufacturing and human-robot collaboration.
N-Omniglot, a large-scale neuromorphic dataset for spatio-temporal sparse few-shot learning
Authors: Li Yang , Dong Yiting , Zhao Dongcheng , Zeng Yi
Published: December 2022

Few-shot learning (learning with a few samples) is one of the most important cognitive abilities of the human brain. However, the current artificial intelligence systems meet difficulties in achieving this ability. Similar challenges also exist for biologically plausible spiking neural networks (SNNs). Datasets for traditional few-shot learning domains provide few amounts of temporal information. And the absence of neuromorphic datasets has hindered the development of few-shot learning for SNNs. Here, to the best of our knowledge, we provide the first neuromorphic dataset for few-shot learning using SNNs: N-Omniglot, based on the Dynamic Vision Sensor. It contains 1,623 categories of handwritten characters, with only 20 samples per class. N-Omniglot eliminates the need for a neuromorphic dataset for SNNs with high spareness and tremendous temporal coherence. Additionally, the dataset provides a powerful challenge and a suitable benchmark for developing SNNs algorithms in the few-shot learning domain due to the chronological information of strokes. We also provide the improved nearest neighbor, convolutional network, SiameseNet, and meta-learning algorithm in the spiking version for verification.
The maize Ga1-s allele confers protection against ga1 pollen in popcorn and dent corn
Authors: Moran Lauter Adrienne N. , Edwards Jode W. , Scott M. Paul
Published: December 2022

Because corn pollen can be carried great distances by wind, maintaining genetic purity of corn grain is challenging. The challenge is substantially reduced in popcorn, which carries the Ga1-s allele preventing pollination by ga1 plants, which include the vast majority of non-popcorn commercial maize varieties in the U.S.. Ga1-s can be transferred into dent corn but the effectiveness of the Ga1-s allele in popcorn and dent corn has never been compared, which is important because each are regulated differently regarding GMO contamination. We compared pollen exclusion of commercial popcorn hybrids, Ga1-s dent corn hybrids and normal dent corn hybrids for their ability to exclude ga1 pollen using a sensitive field-based assay. While both popcorn and Ga1-s dent corn had significantly better pollen exclusion than normal dent corn, popcorn was significantly better than Ga1-s dent corn on average. Some Ga1-s dent hybrids excluded as well or better than some popcorn lines suggesting that identification of hybrids comparable to popcorn is possible. The information in this study will support revised gene purity regulations potentially decreasing costs and increasing genetic purity of organic corn.
Developing erythromycin resistance gene by heavy metals, Pb, Zn, and Co, in aquatic ecosystems
Authors: Komijani Majid , Eghbalpour Farnaz , Lari Ebrahim , Shaykh-Baygloo Nima
Published: December 2022

Industrial development is the main cause of environmental pollution with various substances such as antibiotics and heavy metals. Many heavy metals with antimicrobial properties could contribute to antibiotic resistance and the emergence of antibiotic resistance genes due to the co-selection phenomenon. The aim of this study was to investigate the concurrent presence and correlation between several heavy metals and the erythromycin resistance genes in six aquatic ecosystems of Iran. Distribution and assessment of 11 erythromycin resistance genes were investigated using specific primers and online enrichment and triple-quadrupole LC–MS/MS. The concentration of heavy metals was measured using inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectroscopy by Thermo electron corporation. Principal component analysis was performed to globally compare and to determine the similarities and differences among different aquatic ecosystems in different parts of the world in terms of the concentration of zinc and lead in their water. The results of the simple logistic regression analysis for the correlation between erythromycin resistance genes and heavy metals concentrations revealed the most significant correlation between erythromycin resistance genes and Pb concentration, followed by Co and Zn concentrations.
Aging and the detection of moving objects defined by common fate
Authors: Norman J. Farley , Baig Maheen , Graham Jiali D. , Lewis Jessica L.
Published: December 2022

Grouping by common fate plays an important role in how human observers perceive environmental objects. In this study, the effect of aging upon the ability to utilize common fate was evaluated. Twenty-two younger and older adults (mean ages were 23.4 and 74.7 years, respectively) participated in two experiments. On any given trial, the participants sequentially viewed two apparent motion sequences and were required to indicate which temporal interval contained a coherently moving dotted line embedded in noisy random background motion. In Experiment 1, the number of dots defining the target was varied, while in Experiment 2, the target interpoint spacing was varied. The younger adults outperformed the older adults by 19.4 percent in Experiment 1 and 50.5 percent in Experiment 2. The older and younger adults were similarly affected by variations in the number of target dots and the target interpoint spacing. The individual older participants’ object detection accuracies were highly correlated with their individual chronological ages, such that the performance of the younger old participants was much higher than that exhibited by the older old. Increases in age systematically affect the ability of older adults to detect and visually perceive objects defined by common fate.
A computational approach to measure the linguistic characteristics of psychotherapy timing, responsiveness, and consistency
Authors: Miner Adam S. , Fleming Scott L. , Haque Albert , Fries Jason A. , Althoff Tim , Wilfley Denise E. , Agras W. Stewart , Milstein Arnold , Hancock Jeff , Asch Steven M. , Stirman Shannon Wiltsey , Arnow Bruce A. , Shah Nigam H.
Published: December 2022

Although individual psychotherapy is generally effective for a range of mental health conditions, little is known about the moment-to-moment language use of effective therapists. Increased access to computational power, coupled with a rise in computer-mediated communication (telehealth), makes feasible the large-scale analyses of language use during psychotherapy. Transparent methodological approaches are lacking, however. Here we present novel methods to increase the efficiency of efforts to examine language use in psychotherapy. We evaluate three important aspects of therapist language use - timing, responsiveness, and consistency - across five clinically relevant language domains: pronouns, time orientation, emotional polarity, therapist tactics, and paralinguistic style. We find therapist language is dynamic within sessions, responds to patient language, and relates to patient symptom diagnosis but not symptom severity. Our results demonstrate that analyzing therapist language at scale is feasible and may help answer longstanding questions about specific behaviors of effective therapists.
Decellularized ECM hydrogels: prior use considerations, applications, and opportunities in tissue engineering and biofabrication
Authors: Kort-Mascort Jacqueline , Flores-Torres Salvador , Peza-Chavez Omar , Jang Joyce H. , Pardo Lucas Antonio , Tran Simon D. , Kinsella Joseph
Published: December 2022

Decellularized extracellular matrix hydrogels are tissue-derived materials that with proper processing can be used for tissue engineering applications and to build tissue microenvironmentsin vitro. Figure was partly created with Servier Medical Art.
Covalent organic framework assisted interlocked graphene oxide based thin-film composite membrane for effective water remediation
Authors: Maiti Subhasish , Islam Sk Safikul , Bose Suryasarathi
Published: December 2022

2D materials like graphene oxide (GO) based free-standing membranes, although have shown excellent salt rejection at short time scales, suffer from structural stability and swelling on prolonged use.
Ultra-precise photothermal measurements reveal near unity photoluminescence quantum yields of molecular emitters in solution
Authors: Mertens Sigurd , Siegmund Bernhard , Vandewal Koen
Published: December 2022

Simultaneous measurement of the photoluminescent and photothermal properties of organic dyes allows determination of the photoluminescence quantum yield with unprecedented precision, as well as identifying thermally assisted photon upconversion.
An efficient direct phosphinylation and alkylation of ketones to construct C–P and C–C bonds: access to α,α-disubstituted γ-ketophosphine oxides
Authors: Wei Xiao-Hong , Wang Xiao-Hong , Bai Chun-Yuan , Xue Ya-Wen , Zhang Ping , Wang Yan-Bin , Su Qiong
Published: December 2022

The first example of an acid-promoted difunctionalization of ketones to construct C–P and C–C bonds via a phospha-aldol-elimination is described under metal- and solvent-free conditions.
Unveiling the past evolution of the progenitor of the Helmi streams
Authors: Ruiz-Lara T. , Helmi A. , Gallart C. , Surot F. , Cassisi S.
Published: December 2022

Aims. We aim to determine unique features that characterise the past evolution of the progenitor of the Helmi streams through the analysis of star formation histories (SFHs).

Methods. From the 5D Gaia EDR3 dataset, we extracted local samples of stars dominated by the Helmi streams, the Galactic (thick and thin) disc, and the local retrograde halo. We did this by identifying regions in a pseudo-Cartesian velocity space (obtained by setting line-of-sight velocities to zero), where stars belonging to these components, as identified in samples with 6D phase-space information, are predominantly found. We made use of an updated absolute colour–magnitude diagram (CMD) fitting methodology to contrast the SFHs of these samples to unveil distinct signatures of the past evolution of a disrupted accreted system: the Helmi streams. To this end, special attention was given to the correct characterisation of Gaia completeness effects and observational errors on the CMD. We further investigated alternative sample selections to improve the purity of our 5D Helmi stream catalogues.

Results. We find that the progenitor of the Helmi streams experienced an early star formation that was sustained for longer (until 7–9 Gyr ago) than for the Milky Way halo (10–11 Gyr ago). As a consequence, half of its stellar mass was in place ∼0.7 Gyr later. The quenching of star formation in the Helmi stream progenitor ∼8 Gyr ago suggests it was accreted by the Milky Way around this time, in concert with previous estimates based on the dynamics of the streams.
A free boundary problem in thermal insulation with a prescribed heat source
Authors: Acampora Paolo , Cristoforoni Emanuele , Nitsch Carlo , Trombetti Cristina
Published: December 2022

We study the thermal insulation of a bounded body Ω G ℝn, under a prescribed heat sourcef> 0,viaa bulk layer of insulating material. We consider a model of heat transfer between the insulated body and the environment determined by convection: this corresponds to Robin boundary conditions on the free boundary of the layer. We show that a minimal configuration exists and that it satisfies uniform density estimates.
Towards complete band structure of microscopic MoS2 flakes
Authors: Babenkov Sergey , Froidevaux Marie , Ye Peng , Tortech Ludovic , Dappe Yannick , Boutu Willem , Barrett Nickolas , Merdji Hamed
Published: December 2022

The occupied and unoccupied electronic states of MoS2 monolayer isolated flake were studied using laboratory based photoemission electron microscope (PEEM) nanoESCA equipped with He-I photon source. PEEM real-space imaging allowed selecting the high quality flake. Altogether, the data will allow accurately recovering the band structures of MoS2. The band structures will be used in future pump-probe experiments to explore the dynamics of electrons in the conduction band and photo-induced multitopological states using trefoil polarization.
On the energy resolution of a GaAs-based electron source for spin-resolved inverse photoemission
Authors: Campos Abraham Federico , Duden Thomas , Tejeda Antonio
Published: December 2022

The spin resolution in inverse photoemission spectroscopy is achieved by injecting spin-polarized electrons, usually produced by GaAs-based cold cathodes that replace hot-filament electron guns of spin-integrated setups. The overall energy resolution of the system can be enhanced by adjusting either the optical bandpass of the photon detector or the energy distribution of the electron beam. Here we discuss the influence of the photocurrent and the photocathode temperature on the energy broadening of the electron beam through the inverse photoemission spectra of the spin-splitted Shockley surface state of Au(111). First, we find that cooling down the GaAs photocathode to 77 K increases the band gap and reduces the number of allowed vertical transitions, monochromatizing the electron beam with an enhancement of about 30 meV for the energy resolution. Second, we observe a correlation between the generated photocurrent at the electron source, and the space-charge effects at the sample as a reduction of lifetime and spin asymmetry of a polarized bulk state. These observations allow defining a threshold of current density for the optimum acquisition in the measurements of spin-resolved inverse photoemission in Au.
Photoemission in microelectronic research: When technological developments allow to tackle new questions in the lab
Authors: Conard Thierry
Published: December 2022

Photoemission has always played an important role in the development of new microelectronic devices and processes and has quickly focused on the use of monochromatized Al Kd radiation in most commercial instruments. While, for instance, ARXPS using sample tilting or the use of high-energy photoemission at synchrotron facilities were available, their use remained confidential due to technical constraints such as measurement time, repeatability of the measurements and/or access to the facilities. In this paper, we show through some examples that the implementation of these features in a user-friendly setup in the laboratory considerably enhances the information retrieved from photoemission experiments.
Effect of heat treatment on microstructure, hardness and tensile properties of high-speed selective laser melted Ti6Al4V
Authors: Lekoadi Paul , Tlotleng Monnamme , Annan Kofi , Maledi Nthabiseng , Masina Bathusile
Published: December 2022

This study presents the investigation of the influence of heat treatment on microstructure, hardness and tensile properties of high-speed selective laser melted Ti6Al4V components. Heat treatment was performed to obtain an improved microstructure with enhanced hardness and tensile properties. It was found that the acicular martensitic α′ structure on the as-built sample lead to high hardness, yield strength and ultimate tensile strengths of 389±10 HV0.3, 949 ± 10 MPa and 1045 ± 3 MPa, respectively,with a low ductility of 5%. Heat treatment transformed the martensitic α′ structure into lamella α + β phases, with heat treatment at 1000 °C resultingin the most improved hardness and ductility from 389 ± 10 HV0.3and 5% to 325 ± 20 HV0.3and 13%, and a decrease in yield and ultimate tensile strength from 949 ± 10 MPa and 1045 ± 13MPa to 835 ± 11 MPa and 911 ± 5 MPa, respectively.
PET und SPECT bei Epilepsie
Authors: la Fougère Christian , Bartenstein Peter
Published: December 2022

Molekulare Bildgebung mit SPECT und PET ermöglicht sowohl in der klinischen Routine als auch in der neurologischen Forschung eine metabolische Charakterisierung der Epilepsie, welche zum einem zu einer Verbesserung der diagnostischen Sicherheit und zum anderen zu einem besseren Verständnis über pathophysiologische und pathobiochemische Veränderungen führt. Im Rahmen dieser aktualisierten Arbeit soll der Einsatz von SPECT und PET dargestellt werden und deren Stellenwert im klinischen Einsatz neu bewertet werden.
Experience with Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia in Tripoli Children's Hospital, Libya
Authors: Abulgassem Intisar , BenRajab Faten
Published: December 2022

Congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) denotes a group of autosomal recessive disorders. Its clinical spectrum varies from classical CAH (CCAH) to nonclassic CAH. It may be a simple virilizing form or salt-wasting type. The study described the clinical presentation, treatment modalities, and sequelae of CAH, including its effect on patient growth during long-term follow-up. A case series study was conducted on patients with CAH who attended and followed up in the Endocrine Clinic in Tripoli Children's Hospital from January 1, 2000 to December 31, 2018. The presentation and the last visit captured demographic and clinical features at the time of diagnosis, types of CAH (classical vs. nonclassical), investigations, treatment details, and height. All patients underwent biochemical testing and hormonal assay, including adrenocorticotropin hormone (ACTH), 17-hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP), and plasma renin activity (PRA) levels before and after treatment. Fifty-eight patients were included; 38 (65.5.2%) were female, age at presentation in 94.8% ranged between 1 day and 10 years, with a mean age of 2.3 ± 1.1 years. Ambiguous genitalia was the presenting feature in 55.2 and 84% of total and female patients, respectively. Salt wasting was present in 37.9%. Of 32 female patients with ambiguous genitalia, only 11 (34.4%) out of them and 19% of all patients had a surgical correction. The mean and standard deviation of height at diagnosis was 78.327 + 31.070, and the last visit after treatment was 108.345 + 31.781. The relation between the date of birth and height throughout follow-up for those at last visit with age ranges from 13 to 18 years old, their mean and standard deviation of height was 135.650 + 29.286, and for patients who were less than13 years at last visit, the mean and standard deviation of height was 101.079 + 32.121; p-value = 0.003. The Z-scores were calculated and showed that about eight patients were positively above the average mean of the population. Biochemical disturbances were improved after treatment, including sodium, potassium, and glucose in CCAH type; p-value < 0.001. Hormonal findings included levels of ACTH, 17-OHP, and PRA; all levels were reduced with treatment; p-value < 0.001. In this single-center series, most of our patients with biochemical and hormonal abnormalities were normalized with hormonal replacement and limited surgical correction of females with ambiguous genitalia.
Acute Kidney Injury and Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome in Severe Pneumococcal Pneumonia—A Retrospective Analysis in Pediatric Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Kuok Chon In , Hsu Mei Lam Natalie , Lai Stephanie Hui Fung , Wong Kin Nam Karen , Chan Winnie Kwai Yu
Published: December 2022

Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of acute kidney injury (AKI) and hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS) in severe pediatric pneumonia due to Streptococcus pneumoniae and to identify factors associated with AKI and HUS in these patients.

Methods: We retrospectively analyzed pediatric patients who were admitted to our pediatric intensive care unit due to severe pneumococcal pneumonia between 2013 and 2019.

Results: Forty-two patients with a median age of 4.3 years were included. Among these patients, 14 (33.3%) developed AKI, including seven (16.7%) stage 1, two (4.8%) stage 2, and five (11.9%) stage 3 AKI. Features of HUS were present in all of the patients with stage 3 AKI, and four required renal replacement therapy (RRT), with a median duration of 10.5 days (range 3 to 16 days). All patients with HUS required mechanical ventilation and inotropic supports. Patients with lower leukocyte and platelet counts, serum sodium and bicarbonate levels, positive urine dipstick (heme or protein ≥ 2 + ), and presence of bacteremia were associated with stage 2 and 3 AKI.

Conclusions: Pediatricians should be aware of the relatively high prevalence of kidney involvement in severe pneumococcal pneumonia, with one-third having AKI and 11.9% developing HUS. Majority (80%) of HUS patients required RRT. Positive urine dipstick, serum sodium, and bicarbonate at presentation, which can be measured in point-of-care tests, may potentially be useful as quick tests to stratify the risks of moderate-to-severe AKI.
The role of attachment in children’s relationships with pets: From pet care to animal harm
Authors: Wauthier Laura M. , Farnfield Steve , Williams Joanne M.
Published: December 2022

Relatively little is known about how attachment influences children’s relationships to pets or mediates positive and negative interaction outcomes. We carried out in-depth interviews with 27 children, including nine children at high-risk for animal harm and 18 matched controls. We used the Child Attachment Play Assessment (CAPA), a drawing task and self-report measures including the Short Attachment to Pets Scale (SAPS) and Children’s Animal Harm Behaviours (CAHB). We also designed a novel measure, the ‘Pets In Children’s Attachment Stories’ (PICAS), to probe children’s mentalising about pets, caregiving-behaviours, comfort from pet and parental help. Children at high risk of animal harm were more likely to be classified as insecure (p = 0.002). Drawings indicated secure children tended to feel closer to mothers (p = 0.014) and siblings (p = 0.007), while pets’ proximity did not vary according to attachment strategy. Although insecure children scored lower on mentalising (p = 0.013), caregiving behaviour (p = 0.028) and parental help (p = 0.002), both groups similarly used pets as sources of comfort. There were no differences between attachment patterns on SAPS but there were differences for CAHB scores (p = 0.048). Thus, although insecure attachment was an important risk factor for harming animals, secure and insecure children had similar capacity for bonding with their pets. These results have implications both for how we treat cases of childhood animal harm and for how we understand the supportive role pets can play in children’s lives.
Neutrino detectors could monitor nuclear submarines
Authors: Wogan Tim
Published: December 2022

Two neutrino physicists in the US have proposed a novel way to detect the presence of weapons-grade uranium in nuclear-powered submarines without entering their reactor compartments.
Slab avalanches resemble strike-slip earthquakes
Authors: Jarman Sam
Published: December 2022

Researchers in Switzerland and the US have gleaned new insights into how slab avalanches begin on snowy mountainsides.
Space station future put in doubt
Authors: Gwynne Peter
Published: December 2022

Russia’s apparent willingness to leave the International Space Station after 2024 is throwing up questions about the future of astronauts in low-Earth orbit, as Peter Gwynne discovers.
Why Schrödinger failed at Oxford
Authors: Durrani Matin
Published: December 2022

Matin Durrani reviews Schrödinger in Oxford by David Clary.
Staying grounded
Authors: Holt Chris
Published: December 2022

Apparently “the world’s most dangerous invention” is shoes.
Functional unit of supergene in female-limited Batesian mimicry of Papilio polytes
Authors: Komata Shinya , Yoda Shinichi , KonDo Yûsuke , Shinozaki Souta , Tamai Kouki , Fujiwara Haruhiko
Published: December 2022

Supergenes are sets of genes and genetic elements that are inherited like a single gene and control complex adaptive traits, but their functional roles and units are poorly understood. In Papilio polytes, female-limited Batesian mimicry is thought to be regulated by a ∼130 kb inversion region (highly diversified region: HDR) containing 3 genes, UXT, U3X, and doublesex (dsx) which switches non-mimetic and mimetic types. To determine the functional unit, we here performed electroporation-mediated RNAi analyses (and further Crispr/Cas9 for UXT) of genes within and flanking the HDR in pupal hindwings. We first clarified that non-mimetic dsx-h had a function to form the non-mimetic trait in female and only dsx-H isoform 3 had an important function in the formation of mimetic traits. Next, we found that UXT was involved in making mimetic-type pale-yellow spots and adjacent gene sir2 in making red spots in hindwings, both of which refine more elaborate mimicry. Furthermore, downstream gene networks of dsx, U3X, and UXT screened by RNA sequencing showed that U3X upregulated dsx-H expression and repressed UXT expression. These findings demonstrate that a set of multiple genes, not only inside but also flanking HDR, can function as supergene members, which extends the definition of supergene unit than we considered before. Also, our results indicate that dsx functions as the switching gene and some other genes such as UXT and sir2 within the supergene unit work as the modifier gene.
Selenium species transforming along soil–plant continuum and their beneficial roles for horticultural crops
Authors: Guo Qingxue , Ye Jianhui , Zeng Jianming , Chen Liang , Korpelainen Helena , Li Chunyang
Published: December 2022

Selenium (Se) acquirement from daily diet can help reduce the risk of many diseases. The edible parts of crop plants are the main source of dietary Se, while the Se content in crops is determined by Se bioavailability in soil. We summarize recent research on the biogeochemical cycle of Se driven by specific microorganisms and emphasize the oxidizing process in the Se cycle. Moreover, we discuss how plant root exudates and rhizosphere microorganisms affect soil Se availability. Finally, we cover beneficial microorganisms, including endophytes, that promote crop quality and improve crop tolerance to environmental stresses. Se availability to plants depends on the balance between adsorption and desorption, reduction, methylation and oxidation, which are determined by interactions among soil properties, microbial communities and plants. Reduction and methylation processes governed by bacteria or fungi lead to declined Se availability, while Se oxidation regulated by Se-oxidizing microorganisms increases Se availability to plants. Despite a much lower rate of Se oxidization compared to reduction and methylation, the potential roles of microbial communities in increasing Se bioavailability are probably largely underestimated. Enhancing Se oxidation and Se desorption are crucial for the promotion of Se bioavailability and uptake, particularly in Se-deficient soils. Beneficial roles of Se are reported in terms of improved crop growth and quality, and enhanced protection against fungal diseases and abiotic stress through improved photosynthetic traits, increased sugar and amino acid contents, and promoted defense systems. Understanding Se transformation along the plant–soil continuum is crucial for agricultural production and even for human health.
Home range and activity patterns of the Critically Endangered endemic pygmy raccoon of Cozumel Island, México
Authors: Lara-Godínez Sofía Ana Lucrecia , Valenzuela-Galván David , Cuarón Alfredo D
Published: December 2022

Individuals from island and continental mammal populations have shown a number of differences in their behavioral ecology. We predicted that, like other island carnivores exhibiting dwarfism, the pygmy raccoon (Procyon pygmaeus), a Critically Endangered carnivore endemic to Cozumel Island, México, would show differences in its home ranges and activity patterns when compared to its mainland counterpart, the racoon, P. lotor. We radio-tracked 11 individuals (six males, five females) from February to July 2017 and used location data derived from triangulation to estimate the home range size, diel activity patterns, and distances traveled of pygmy raccoons. Individuals showed an average home range size between 96.9 ± 18.8 ha (95% minimum convex polygon) and 123.3 ± 31.2 ha (95% fixed kernel). Home ranges of males (109.4–142.8 ha) were larger than those of females (81.8–99.9 ha). Average home ranges were in the lower extreme of those reported for continental raccoons. Activity patterns of pygmy raccoons generally begin at sunset and continue up to 04:00 with rare activity peaks during the day; there were no significant differences in activity patterns between sexes. Data on spatial needs of individuals, and differences between sexes or insular versus continental populations have implications for conservation planning and management.
Wenlin procedure for treatment of compound thoracic deformity after cardiac surgery
Authors: Wang Wenlin , Long Weiguang , Liu Yang , Cai Bin , Luo Juan
Published: December 2022

Cardiac surgery is usually completed through the median sternotomy. If the sternum is not fixed firmly after the operation, it may lead to secondary thoracic deformities. The most common deformity after operation is pectus carinatum, and the relatively less common deformity is pectus excavatum, but the compound thoracic deformity has not been reported. We met a 3-year-old boy who underwent surgery for congenital ventricular septal defect at the age of 1. He developed a severe compound thoracic deformity after surgery. We used Wenlin procedure to correct his deformity and obtained satisfactory results. This article reports the operation of this patient.
Trotabresib, an oral potent bromodomain and extraterminal inhibitor, in patients with high-grade gliomas: A phase I, “window-of-opportunity” study
Authors: Moreno Victor , Manuel Sepúlveda Juan , Reardon David A , Pérez-Núñez Ángel , González León Pedro , Hanna Bishoy , Filvaroff Ellen , Aronchik Ida , Chang Henry , Amoroso Barbara , Zuraek Marlene , Sanchez-Perez Tania , Mendez Cristina , Stephens Daniel , Nikolova Zariana , Vogelbaum Michael A
Published: December 2022

Background

The bromodomain and extraterminal protein (BET) inhibitor trotabresib has demonstrated antitumor activity in patients with advanced solid tumors, including high-grade gliomas. CC-90010-GBM-001 (NCT04047303) is a phase I study investigating the pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and CNS penetration of trotabresib in patients with recurrent high-grade gliomas scheduled for salvage resection.

Methods

Patients received trotabresib 30 mg/day on days 1–4 before surgery, followed by maintenance trotabresib 45 mg/day 4 days on/24 days off after surgery. Primary endpoints were plasma pharmacokinetics and trotabresib concentrations in resected tissue. Secondary and exploratory endpoints included safety, pharmacodynamics, and antitumor activity.

Results

Twenty patients received preoperative trotabresib and underwent resection with no delays or cancelations of surgery; 16 patients received maintenance trotabresib after recovery from surgery. Trotabresib plasma pharmacokinetics were consistent with previous data. Mean trotabresib brain tumor tissue:plasma ratio was 0.84 (estimated unbound partition coefficient [KPUU] 0.37), and modulation of pharmacodynamic markers was observed in blood and brain tumor tissue. Trotabresib was well tolerated; the most frequent grade 3/4 treatment-related adverse event during maintenance treatment was thrombocytopenia (5/16 patients). Six-month progression-free survival was 12%. Two patients remain on treatment with stable disease at cycles 25 and 30.

Conclusions

Trotabresib penetrates the blood–brain-tumor barrier in patients with recurrent high-grade glioma and demonstrates target engagement in resected tumor tissue. Plasma pharmacokinetics, blood pharmacodynamics, and safety were comparable with previous results for trotabresib in patients with advanced solid tumors. Investigation of adjuvant trotabresib + temozolomide and concomitant trotabresib + temozolomide + radiotherapy in patients with newly diagnosed glioblastoma is ongoing (NCT04324840).
Clinical Impact of Noninvasive Plasma Microbial Cell-Free Deoxyribonucleic Acid Sequencing for the Diagnosis and Management of Pneumocystis jirovecii Pneumonia: A Single-Center Retrospective Study
Authors: Foong Kap Sum , Mabayoje Mojolaoluwa , AlMajali Abeer
Published: December 2022

We present 23 cases of Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia (PCP) diagnosed with commercially available noninvasive plasma microbial cell-free deoxyribonucleic acid (mcfDNA) assay. Our findings suggest that plasma mcfDNA testing resulted in positive clinical impact for the diagnosis and treatment of PCP and coinfections in 82.6% of cases.
Paley graphs and sárközy’s theorem in function fields
Authors: Naslund Eric
Published: December 2022

Sárközy’s theorem states that dense sets of integers must contain two elements whose difference is a kth power. Following the polynomial method breakthrough of Croot, Lev and Pach [3], Green proved a strong quantitative version of this result for $\mathbb{F}_{q}[T]$. In this paper we provide a lower bound for Sárközy’s theorem in function fields by adapting Ruzsa’s construction [17] for the analogous problem in $\mathbb{Z}$. We construct a set A of polynomials of degree < n such that A does not contain a kth power difference with $|A|=q^{n-n/2k}$. Additionally, we prove a handful of results concerning the independence number of generalized Paley graphs, including a generalization of a claim of Ruzsa, which helps with understanding the limit of the method.
Evaluating a Digital Mental Health Intervention (Wysa) for Workers’ Compensation Claimants
Authors: Iglesias Marcos , Sinha Chaitali , Vempati Ramakant , Grace Sarah Elizabeth , Roy Madhavi , Chapman William C. , Rinaldi Monica Lynn
Published: December 2022

Objective

This study examines the feasibility and acceptability of an AI-led digital mental health intervention in a Workers’ Compensation (WC) program, Wysa for Return to Work.

Methods

Self-reported demographic data and responses to psychosocial screening questions were analyzed alongside participants’ app usage through which four key outcomes were measured: recruitment rate, onboarding rate, retention, and engagement.

Results

The data demonstrated a high need for psychosocial interventions among injured workers, especially women, young adults, and those with high severity injuries. Those with more psychosocial risk factors had a higher rate of onboarding, retention, and engagement, and those with severe injuries had higher retention.

Conclusions

Our study concluded that Wysa for Return to Work, the AI-led digital mental health intervention that delivers a recovery program using a digital conversational agent, is feasible and acceptable for a return-to-work population.
Peptide transport in Bacillus subtilis – structure and specificity in the extracellular solute binding proteins OppA and DppE
Authors: Hughes Adam M. , Darby John F. , Dodson Eleanor J. , Wilson Samuel J. , Turkenburg Johan P. , Thomas Gavin H. , Wilkinson Anthony J.
Published: December 2022

Peptide transporters play important nutritional and cell signalling roles in Bacillus subtilis, which are pronounced during stationary phase adaptations and development. Three high-affinity ATP-binding cassette (ABC) family transporters are involved in peptide uptake – the oligopeptide permease (Opp), another peptide permease (App) and a less well-characterized dipeptide permease (Dpp). Here we report crystal structures of the extracellular substrate binding proteins, OppA and DppE, which serve the Opp and Dpp systems, respectively. The structure of OppA was determined in complex with endogenous peptides, modelled as Ser-Asn-Ser-Ser, and with the sporulation-promoting peptide Ser-Arg-Asn-Val-Thr, which bind with K
d values of 0.4 and 2 µM, respectively, as measured by isothermal titration calorimetry. Differential scanning fluorescence experiments with a wider panel of ligands showed that OppA has highest affinity for tetra- and penta-peptides. The structure of DppE revealed the unexpected presence of a murein tripeptide (MTP) ligand, l-Ala-d-Glu-meso-DAP, in the peptide binding groove. The mode of MTP binding in DppE is different to that observed in the murein peptide binding protein, MppA, from

Escherichia coli

, suggesting independent evolution of these proteins from an OppA-like precursor. The presence of MTP in DppE points to a role for Dpp in the uptake and recycling of cell wall peptides, a conclusion that is supported by analysis of the genomic context of dpp, which revealed adjacent genes encoding enzymes involved in muropeptide catabolism in a gene organization that is widely conserved in

Firmicutes

.
A pathogen-induced putative NAC transcription factor mediates leaf rust resistance in barley
Authors: Chen Chunhong , Jost Matthias , Outram Megan A. , Friendship Dorian , Periyannan Sambasivam , Bartoš Jan , Holušová Kateřina , Zhang Peng , Bhatt Dhara , Singh Davinder , Lagudah Evans , Park Robert , Dracatos Peter
Published: December 2022

Leaf rust, caused byPuccinia hordei, is one of the most widespread and damaging foliar diseases affecting barley (Hordeumspp.). The barley leaf rust resistance locusRph7, located on the short arm of chromosome 3H, confers defence at all growth stages and was previously shown to have unusually high sequence and haplotype divergence. Earlier, four candidate genes forRph7were reported and, despite an in-depth comparative sequence analysis and haplotypic characterisation, the causal gene could not be resolved. Here, we successfully clonedRph7utilising a fine mapping approach in combination with an RNA-Seq based expression analysis. We identified three up-regulated and pathogen-induced genes with presence/absence variation (PAV) at this locus. Sequence analysis of chemically inducedRph7knockout mutant lines identified multiple independent non-synonymous variants, including a premature stop codon in a single non-canonical resistance gene that encodes a 302-amino acid protein. Progeny from four independent transgenic lines segregated for the expected avirulentRph7infection type in response to several avirulentP. hordeipathotypes, however, all plants were susceptible to a single virulent pathotype confirming the specificity. Structural analysis using an AlphaFold2 protein model suggests thatRph7encodes a putative NAC transcription factor, as it shares structural similarity to ANAC019 fromArabidopsis, with a C-terminal BED domain. A global gene expression analysis suggestsRph7is involved in the activation of basal defence.
Uncertainty governance in the stock market during the COVID-19: evidence of the strictest economies in the world
Authors: Owjimehr Sakine , Hasanzadeh Dastfroosh Hooman
Published: December 2022

Purpose

According to the Government Response tracker (oxCGRT) index, the strictest policy responses to the coronavirus pandemic from January 2020 to May 2022 belong to Italy, China, Hong Kong, Greece, Austria, Peru, Singapore and Malaysia. The main question is: “this level of strictness has been able to reduce the uncertainty of the stock market?”

Design/methodology/approach

To achieve this goal, the authors investigated the effect of oxCGRT index, and the growth rate of COVID-19 confirms cases on stock market uncertainty from January 2020 to May 2022 in the GARCH, EGARCH and TGARCH models.

Findings

Among these countries, the oxCGRT index has reduced uncertainty in the stock market only in Malaysia and Singapore. This result says an appropriate pattern of applying government policy responses is more important than the degree of stringency.

Originality/value

The study will contribute to the existing literature by examining the impact of the comprehensive oxCGRT index on the uncertainty of the stock market.
Who said there is no place like home? Extending the link between quantitative job demands and life satisfaction: a moderated mediation model
Authors: Şimşek Demirbağ Kübra , Demirbağ Orkun
Published: December 2022

Purpose

Based on the job demands and resources (JD-R) model and conservation of resources (COR) theory, this paper aims to develop and test a model that examines the moderating role of daily remote work hours and the mediating role of work–family conflict on the effects of excessive workload and time pressure on life satisfaction due to mandatory remote work arrangements.

Design/methodology/approach

Hierarchical regression analysis was used to analyze data from 400 professionals working in the IT sector in Turkey. Scales developed by previous researchers were used to measure excessive workload, time pressure, work–family conflict and life satisfaction. While these four variables were measured with 19 statements, daily remote work hours were determined with a single question. The collected data were validated using confirmatory factor analysis, and the hypotheses were tested using structural equation modeling. Furthermore, the reliability and validity of the data were confirmed. Finally, PROCESS was applied to examine moderated mediation.

Findings

According to the analysis results obtained from the above sample data, daily remote work hours moderate the mediating role of work–family conflict in the relationships between (1) excessive workload and life satisfaction and (2) time pressure and life satisfaction. In other words, the findings show that job-related demands arising from workload, time pressure and remote work hours prevent employees from meeting their family obligations, thereby increasing work–family conflict and ultimately affecting life satisfaction.

Practical implications

The study can help employers, managers, human resource professionals, policymakers and researchers increase employees' life satisfaction due to the changes in job demands experienced by employees in companies that have transitioned to remote work practices. It can provide new approaches for dealing with dissatisfaction arising from work-related conflicts in Turkey's changing environment. The results can greatly facilitate the Turkish companies' efforts to create more innovative work arrangements and make an outstanding contribution to improving employee performance in Turkey's transition to remote work practices by focusing on reducing workload, time pressure and long working hours and creating employee-centered remote work models.

Originality/value

As per World Health Organization, the world will face frequent pandemic in the coming years, and thus organizations should be aware of remote work practices that will become widespread. This study provides a new perspective on the impact of employees' changing job demands on work–family conflict and life satisfaction during organizations' transition to new work arrangements in the face of the social crisis created by the COVID-19 pandemic. The study also contributes to closing the research gap between job demands, work–family conflict and life satisfaction.
Clinical research into male reproductive health: The road ahead
Authors: El‐Toukhy Tarek A.
Published: December 2022

Linked article: This is a mini commentary on Sun et al. To view this article visit https://doi.org/10.1111/1471‐0528.17139
Property taxes and rental housing: Evidence from China
Authors: Xiao Chengrui , Zhou Bo
Published: December 2022

We investigate the effect of property taxes on households’ rental income by exploiting regional variations in the introduction of property taxes in China in 2011. Using the propensity score matching combined with a difference‐in‐differences approach, we find that the rental income of households in pilot areas significantly increased after 2011. Hence, homeowners tend to shift the potential property tax burden to tenants. Additionally, this positive effect is driven by the extensive margin, rather than the intensive margin. Our finding is robust to various alternative specifications and subsample analysis. We then adopt a triple‐difference model to show that the effect varies considerably across households that own residential premises in different regions and with different property characteristics.
Legend of the locked doors: The sexualization of archaeological site workers in the Middle East
Authors: Mickel Allison
Published: December 2022

Sexual violence in fieldwork contexts is an urgent and pervasive problem. In archaeology, much discussion is currently ongoing regarding how to change fieldwork policies and climate in order to end sexual violence in the field. In this context, I examine a legend that circulates among the Bedul Bedouin community in Petra about an American archaeologist who locked women students inside their bedroom at night in order to protect them from endangering themselves by going out at night. While I cannot corroborate the story with former students on the project, studying the contemporary life of this legend can teach us about the confrontations of race, gender, and sexuality that occur on archaeological sites in the Middle East and elsewhere. Examined in the context of research on Muslim masculinities and the myth of Arab men's hypersexuality, I use this legend to argue that our approaches to ending sexual violence in archaeology and other fieldwork disciplines should avoid reifying Orientalist and racial stereotypes if these approaches are going to be effective in making our fields safer.