bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enhanced Adsorption of Aromatic Volatile Organic Compounds on a Perchloro Covalent Triazine Framework through Multiple Intermolecular Interactions
Authors: Wen Shuyue , Shen Yongli , Wen Biao , Wu Shuai , Gu Jie , Zhang Zhenjiao , Wei Yajun , Jiao Tianming , Yu Qiuyuan , Deng Qibo , Chen Yanli , Zhao Yunfeng
Published: May 2023

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) may have short‐ and long‐term adverse health effects. Especially, aromatic VOCs including benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylene (BTEX) are important indoor air pollutants. Developing highly efficient porous adsorbents with broad applicability remains a major challenge. In this study, a perchlorinated covalent‐triazine framework (ClCTF‐1‐400) is prepared for adsorbing BTEX. ClCTF‐1‐400 is confirmed as a partially oxidized/chlorinated microporous covalent triazine framework through a variety of characterization. It is found that ClCTF‐1‐400 is reversible VOCs absorbent with very high absorption capacities, which can adsorb benzene (693 mg g−1), toluene (621 mg g−1), ethylbenzene (603 mg g−1), o‐xylene (500 mg g−1), m‐xylene (538 mg g−1), and p‐xylene (592 mg g−1) at 25 °C and their saturated vapor pressure (≈ 1 kPa). ClCTF‐1‐400 is of higher adsorption capacities for all selected VOCs than activated carbon and other reported adsorbents. The adsorption mechanism is also inferred through theoretical calculation and in‐site Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. The observed excellent BTEX adsorption performance is attributed to the multiple weak interactions between the ClCTF‐1‐400 frameworks and aromatic molecules through multiple weak interactions (CH…π and CCl…π). The breakthrough experiment demonstrates ClCTF‐1‐400 has the potential for real VOCs pollutant removal in air.
Quantitative magnetization transfer MRI unbiased by on‐resonance saturation and dipolar order contributions
Authors: Soustelle Lucas , Troalen Thomas , Hertanu Andreea , Ranjeva Jean‐Philippe , Guye Maxime , Varma Gopal , Alsop David C. , Duhamel Guillaume , Girard Olivier M.
Published: May 2023

Purpose

To demonstrate the bias in quantitative MT (qMT) measures introduced by the presence of dipolar order and on‐resonance saturation (ONRS) effects using magnetization transfer (MT) spoiled gradient‐recalled (SPGR) acquisitions, and propose changes to the acquisition and analysis strategies to remove these biases.

Methods

The proposed framework consists of SPGR sequences prepared with simultaneous dual‐offset frequency‐saturation pulses to cancel out dipolar order and associated relaxation (T1D) effects in Z‐spectrum acquisitions, and a matched quantitative MT (qMT) mathematical model that includes ONRS effects of readout pulses. Variable flip angle and MT data were fitted jointly to simultaneously estimate qMT parameters (macromolecular proton fraction [MPF], T2,f, T2,b, R, and free pool T1). This framework is compared with standard qMT and investigated in terms of reproducibility, and then further developed to follow a joint single‐point qMT methodology for combined estimation of MPF and T1.

Results

Bland–Altman analyses demonstrated a systematic underestimation of MPF (−2.5% and −1.3%, on average, in white and gray matter, respectively) and overestimation of T1 (47.1 ms and 38.6 ms, on average, in white and gray matter, respectively) if both ONRS and dipolar order effects are ignored. Reproducibility of the proposed framework is excellent (ΔMPF = −0.03% and ΔT1 = −19.0 ms). The single‐point methodology yielded consistent MPF and T1 values with respective maximum relative average bias of −0.15% and −3.5 ms found in white matter.

Conclusion

The influence of acquisition strategy and matched mathematical model with regard to ONRS and dipolar order effects in qMT‐SPGR frameworks has been investigated. The proposed framework holds promise for improved accuracy with reproducibility.
J‐Difference editing (MEGA) of lactate in the human brain at 3T
Authors: Robison Ryan K. , Haynes Justin R. , Ganji Sandeep K. , Nockowski Charles P. , Kovacs Zoltan , Pham Wellington , Morgan Victoria L. , Smith Seth A. , Thompson Reid C. , Omary Reed A. , Gore John C. , Choi Changho
Published: May 2023

Purpose

The need to detect and quantify brain lactate accurately by MRS has stimulated the development of editing sequences based on J coupling effects. In J‐difference editing of lactate, threonine can be co‐edited and it contaminates lactate estimates due to the spectral proximity of the coupling partners of their methyl protons. We therefore implemented narrow‐band editing 180° pulses (E180) in MEGA‐PRESS acquisitions to resolve separately the 1.3‐ppm resonances of lactate and threonine.

Methods

Two 45.3‐ms rectangular E180 pulses, which had negligible effects 0.15‐ppm away from the carrier frequency, were implemented in a MEGA‐PRESS sequence with TE 139 ms. Three acquisitions were designed to selectively edit lactate and threonine, in which the E180 pulses were tuned to 4.1 ppm, 4.25 ppm, and a frequency far off resonance. Editing performance was validated with numerical analyses and acquisitions from phantoms. The narrow‐band E180 MEGA and another MEGA‐PRESS sequence with broad‐band E180 pulses were evaluated in six healthy subjects.

Results

The 45.3‐ms E180 MEGA offered a difference‐edited lactate signal with lower intensity and reduced contamination from threonine compared to the broad‐band E180 MEGA. The 45.3 ms E180 pulse had MEGA editing effects over a frequency range larger than seen in the singlet‐resonance inversion profile. Lactate and threonine in healthy brain were both estimated to be 0.4 ± 0.1 mM, with reference to N‐acetylaspartate at 12 mM.

Conclusion

Narrow‐band E180 MEGA editing minimizes threonine contamination of lactate spectra and may improve the ability to detect modest changes in lactate levels.
Co‐designing clinical trials alongside youth with chronic pain
Authors: Zaslawski Zina , Dib Katherine , Tsang Vivian W. L. , Orr Serena L. , Birnie Kathryn A. , Lowthian Trinity , Alidina Zahra , Chesick‐Gordis Melila , Kelly Lauren E.
Published: May 2023

Youth have a right to participate in research that will inform the care that they receive. Engagement with children and young people has been shown to improve rates of enrollment and retention in clinical trials as well as reduce research waste. The aim of the study is to gain practical insight on the design of trials specifically on (1) recruitment and retention preferences, (2) potential barriers to research, and (3) study design optimization. Based on this youth engagement, we will co‐design two clinical trials in headaches with youth. Two recruitment strategies were used to recruit 16 youth from across Canada (aged 15–18 years) from an existing youth group, the KidsCan Young Persons' Research Advisory Group (YPRAG) and a new youth group in collaboration with Solutions for Kids in Pain (SKIP). Four virtual, semi‐structured discussion groups were held between April and December 2020, which included pre‐circulated materials and utilized two distinct upcoming planned trials as examples for specific methods feedback. Individual engagement evaluations were completed following the final group session using the Public and Patient Engagement Evaluation Tool. Descriptive results were shared with participants prior to publication to ensure appropriate interpretation. The discussion was centred around three themes: recruitment and retention preferences, potential barriers to participation, and study design optimization. Youth indicated that they would prefer to be contacted for a potential study directly by their physician (not over social media), that they would like to develop rapport with study staff, and that one of the barriers to participation is the time commitment. The youth also provided feedback on the design of the clinical trial including outcome measurement tools, data collection, and engagement methods. Feedback on the virtual format of the engagement events indicated that participants appreciated the ease of the online discussion and that the open‐ended discussion allowed for easy exchange of ideas. They felt that despite a gender imbalance (towards females) it was an overall inclusive environment. All participants reported believing that their engagement will make a difference to the work of the research team in designing the clinical trials. Perspectives from a diverse group of youth meaningfully improved the design and conduct of two clinical trials for headaches in children. This study provides a framework for future researchers to engage youth in the co‐design of clinical trials using online engagement sessions.
Designing the antimicrobial peptide with centrosymmetric and amphipathic characterizations for improving antimicrobial activity
Authors: Lee Ping‐Chien , Yen Chi‐Fang , Lin Ching‐Chun , Lung Feng‐Di T.
Published: May 2023

Antibiotic‐resistant bacterial infections are becoming a serious health issue and will cause 10 million deaths per year by 2050. As a result, the development of new antimicrobial agents is urgently needed. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are found in the innate immune systems of various organisms to effectively fend off invading pathogens. In this study, we designed a series of AMPs (THL‐2‐1 to THL‐2‐9) with centrosymmetric and amphipathic properties, through substituting different amino acids on the hydrophobic side and at the centrosymmetric position to improve their antimicrobial activity. The results showed that leucine as a residue on the hydrophobic side of the peptide could enhance its antimicrobial activity and that glutamic acid as a centrosymmetric residue could increase the salt resistance of the peptide. Thus, the THL‐2‐3 peptide (KRLLRELKRLL‐NH2) showed the greatest antimicrobial activity (MIC90 of 16 μM) against Gram‐negative bacteria and had the highest salt resistance and cell selectivity among all the designed peptides. In summary, the results of this study provide useful references for the design of AMPs to enhance antimicrobial activity.
Recognizing the need for standardized training for community health workers (CHWs)
Authors: Kalluru Shilpa , Pearson Ayala Savannah , Peters Dana , Zarcadoolas Christina , Shirazian Taraneh
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Despite global improvements in maternal health, disparities in maternal mortality rates in the United States have worsened in recent years. Community health workers (CHWs) as maternal health educators have previously been studied in low‐ and middle‐income countries, however their use in the United States has been limited.

Methodology

To address the ongoing disparities in maternal mortality, we conducted a mixed methods pilot study consisting of discussion groups and a written survey with CHWs in two boroughs in NYC. The study's goal was to identify and explore CHW professional training, their daily tasks, and roles as well as their insights and perspectives regarding the needs of their pregnant clients.

Results

Eighteen CHWs participated in the discussion groups and 11 participated in the survey. Participants were predominantly Black and/or Latina. Key themes were very consistent across group discussion and survey data. Major themes were a lack of standardized training for CHWs on basic maternal health topics, the existence of racism and bias in the provision of care for Black and other minority individuals, along with pregnant peoples’ needs for support to better advocate to overcome systemic barriers.

Conclusion

This study suggests that targeted maternal health training of CHWs is needed to better enable them to identify pregnancy risks and advance health literacy and promote self‐advocacy among their pregnant clients. This will ultimately yield a more effective CHW workforce and better health outcomes for pregnant people.
Increased simulated precipitation frequency promotes greenhouse gas fluxes from the soils of seasonal fallow croplands
Authors: Chen Kang‐Hua , Wen Shuhai , Zhang Wen , Feng Jiao , Liu Yu‐Rong
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Farmlands are key sources of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, which are susceptible to changes in precipitation regimes. The soils of seasonal fallow contribute approximately half of annual GHG emissions from farmlands, but the effect of precipitation frequency on soil GHG emissions from seasonal fallow croplands remains virtually unknown.

Materials and Methods

We conducted a microcosm study to evaluate the response of nitrous oxide (N2O), methane (CH4) and carbon dioxide (CO2) fluxes from typical paddy and upland soils to the changes in watering frequency simulating precipitation scenarios of subtropical regions during seasonal fallow. We also analyzed changes of soil properties and biotic characteristics associated with GHG emissions, including abundances of soil denitrifiers (nirK, nirS, nosZI and nosZII genes), methanotrophs (pmoA gene) and methanogens (mcrA gene) to altered watering frequency.

Results

Increased watering frequency led to overall increases in soil N2O and CO2 fluxes compared with low frequency. Compared with low frequency, high watering frequency decreased CH4 flux from the paddy soil by 3.5 times, while enhanced CH4 flux from the upland soil by 60%. Furthermore, the increased watering frequency had positive effects on cumulative N2O and CO2 fluxes from the upland soil, whereas no similar trend was observed for the paddy soil. Hierarchical partitioning analyses showed that N2O fluxes from the paddy soil were mostly related to nitrogen availability, and mcrA gene abundance had more than 90% of relative independent effects on CH4 and CO2 fluxes from the paddy soil. For the upland soil, nosZ (60.34%), pmoA (53.18%) and nir (47.07%) gene abundances were important predictors of N2O, CH4 and CO2 fluxes, respectively.

Conclusion

Our results demonstrate that increased watering frequency facilitates GHG emissions by changing soil properties and functional gene abundances. These findings provide new insights into GHG fluxes from seasonal fallow croplands in response to altered precipitation patterns.
High Areal Capacity, Long Cycle Life Li–Air Batteries Enabled by Nano/Micro Hierarchical Porous Cathode
Authors: Yao Chongyan , Lei Xiaofeng , Ma Chao , Zhang Qingxu , Liu Xizheng , Ding Yi
Published: May 2023

The limited cycle life of Li–air batteries (LABs) with high areal capacity remains the chief challenge that hinders their practical applications. Here, the study proposes a hierarchical porous electrode (HPE) design strategy, in which porous MnO nanoflowers are built into mesopore/macropore electrodes through a combination of chemical dealloying and physical de‐templating procedures. The MnO nanoflowers with 10–30 nm pore provides active sites to catalyze the O2 reduction and decomposition of discharged products. The 5–10 µm macroscopic pores in the cathode serve as channels of O2 transportation and facilitate the electrolyte permeation. The proposed HPE exhibits a full discharge capacity of 17.49 mAh cm−2 and stable cycle life >2000 h with a limited capacity of 6 mAh cm−2. These results suggest that the HPE design strategy for LABs can simultaneously provide large capacity and robust cycle life, which is promising for advanced metal–air batteries.
Multilevel intergroup conflict at the core of climate (in)justice: Psychological challenges and ways forward
Authors: Majumdar Rohini , Weber Elke U.
Published: May 2023

Although developed countries have been historically responsible for causing climate change, developing countries are more vulnerable to its current and future effects and being asked to commit to levels of climate action that exceed their responsibilities and capabilities. Climate change exacerbates existing social inequities by disproportionately impacting certain groups (including women, racial minorities, and the poor) more than others. Powerful institutions such as the government and the academy have a responsibility to alter this course and advance climate justice but are themselves marred by inequities. Given these disparities, the question of how the burden of climate change mitigation should be justly distributed amongst stakeholders is of paramount importance to international and domestic climate negotiations. Insights from the social identity and group processes literatures explain how experiences of inequity along geographical and sociodemographic dimensions generate identities and groups. As group members, people are sensitive to threats to the ingroup, experience collective emotions on behalf of the group, and differentially apply morality to in‐ versus outgroups. Members are also incentivized to protect and further their group's interests relative to outgroups. Social psychology offers some promising avenues of research for potential solutions to mitigate the multilevel intergroup conflict posing as a barrier to climate justice. Climate governance recommendations to policymakers and negotiators include incentivizing integrative solutions and fully considering the justice implications of climate policy. Climate scholars are encouraged to pursue interdisciplinary collaborations, improve diversity within the academy and in research samples, and prioritize climate adaptation in developing contexts.

This article is categorized under:

Climate, History, Society, Culture > Disciplinary Perspectives

Climate, Nature, and Ethics > Climate Change and Global Justice
Addressing Needs of Foreign Schoolchildren to Combat a Global Epidemic of Dengue Virus Infection: Transnational and Trans-Sectoral Initiatives
Authors: Yoshikawa Minako Jen , Hamada Atsuo , Liew Christina
Published: May 2023

This study highlights the demand for conducting outreach to foreign demographics in countries affected by infectious diseases. The increasing global burdenof mosquito-borne Dengue virusinfection suggests that local health education efforts need to include the population’s foreign segments. Communicating information in their mother tongue and empowering them with knowledge of local diseases and preventive measures is essential when foreign residents cannot fully understand the local language(s). This paper presents an example of transnational and trans-sectoral initiatives in anti-dengue education, which involved 1,105 Japanese schoolchildren in Singapore. Paying attention to cross-cultural, language, and other elements, an academic from a university, a medical doctor from Japan, and a medical entomologist from a Singapore governmental agency collaborated. Lessons included the importance of building capacity among schoolteachers in order to engage schoolchildren. Conducting outreach to foreign residents will be increasingly important when a new technology is introduced as a preventive measure or when scientific evidence must be communicated to combat a global epidemic. Otherwise, key messages might remain unnoticed and ineffective in motivating people to take necessary action. Transnational and trans-sectoral collaboration could be a solution to sustain outreach efforts for public health.

Graphical Abstract/Art Performance

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The durability of acetylated beech (Fagus sylvatica L.) laminated veneer lumber (LVL) against wood-destroying basidiomycetes
Authors: Slabohm Maik , Brischke Christian , Militz Holger
Published: May 2023

The overall aim of this study was to investigate the durability of acetylated beech (Fagus sylvatica L.) laminated veneer lumber (LVL) against wood-destroying basidiomycetes. The secondary objective was to test whether the specimen size affects the mass loss and durability assessment of wood-material under test. The durability test was based on the pre-standard prEN 113-3. Six materials (acetylated beech LVL, untreated beech LVL, beech solid wood, pine sapwood (Pinus sylvestris L.), larch (Larix decidua Mill.) 3-layer slab, larch solid wood) were tested using three specimen geometry designs (50 × 25 × 15 mm3 as well as 50 × 50 × 19 mm3 with and without sealed edges) against Coniophora puteana, Rhodonia placenta, Gloeophyllum trabeum, Trametes versicolor, and Pleurotus ostreatus. The durability assessment was made using the arithmetic mean and median percentage mass loss (ML), the relative ML (x-values), and the decay susceptibility index (DSI). It was found that mass loss was affected by the test fungus, the material, and the specimen size and design, with the latter being the most essential factor in this study. In addition, the assessment parameter had a significant effect on the durability classification. Furthermore, small differences in ML resulted in different durability classes (DC) in some cases, whereas large differences in ML did not. However, acetylated beech LVL was always considerably durable (DC 1) against all tested fungi independent of the specimen design and durability assessment method.
The system of autono‑mobility: computer vision and urban complexity—reflections on artificial intelligence at urban scale
Authors: Iapaolo Fabio
Published: May 2023

Focused on city-scale automation, and using self-driving cars (SDCs) as a case study, this article reflects on the role of AI—and in particular, computer vision systems used for mapping and navigation—as a catalyst for urban transformation. Urban research commonly presents AI and cities as having a one-way cause-and-effect relationship, giving undue weight to AI’s impact on cities and overlooking the role of cities in shaping AI. Working at the intersection of data science and social research, this paper aims to counter this trend by exploring the reverse perspective: how do cities affect the development, and expose the present limits, of SDCs? The contribution of this paper is threefold. First, by comparing urban and nonurban environments and thoroughly examining the relationship between computer vision and city-specific sociality and form, it defines machine autonomy/automation as a function of the sociotechnical milieu in which an AI system operates. Second, and related, the paper problematizes the notion of SDCs as autonomous technologies and the role it plays in envisioning contending policy arrangements and technical solutions for achieving full driving automation. Finally, the article offers insight into a materialist and spatialized understanding of AI—namely, not as an abstract quality susceptible to replication within discrete machines, but rather as a distributed property emerging through embodied interactions among a multiplicity of agents (human, non-human, and technological) within/with their environments.
Diversity of the squid genus Leachia (Oegopsida: Cranchiidae) in the Pacific Ocean
Authors: Evans A. B. , Bolstad K. S. R.
Published: May 2023

Leachia is a cosmopolitan tropical/temperate genus of ‘glass’ squids (Cranchiidae) whose taxonomy has been plagued with instability typical of the family. Eight species are currently believed to exist worldwide, including some not yet described. This review assesses the Pacific taxa, describes a novel species, L. separata, and provides updated diagnoses for the other Pacific species. Type material and original descriptions are compared, and brief remarks provided on the Atlantic taxa. The most useful characters for identifying Leachia species appear to be the number of ocular photophores and the configuration of the ventral cartilaginous strips and associated tubercles on the mantle, with arm and sucker-ring dentition also proving useful in some taxa. Further work on the genus is needed, ideally including molecular tools.
Optimization of antimicrobial peptides for the application against biocorrosive bacteria
Authors: Stillger L. , Viau L. , Kamm L. , Holtmann D. , Müller D.
Published: May 2023

Microbiologically influenced corrosion is a common problem in the industrial field due to the deterioration of metals in the presence of various microorganisms, in particular sulfate-reducing bacteria (SRB) and sulfur-oxidizing bacteria (SOB). A common method to reduce microbiologically influenced corrosion is the application of biocides. The limited number of suitable biocides and the resulting development of resistance, high dosage, and high application rate hinder an effective application. An environmentally friendly alternative could be the application of antimicrobial peptides (AMP), which have already been established in the field of medical devices for a while. Here, the successful treatment of different AMPs against 3 SRB and 1 SOB was demonstrated. The peptide L5K5W was favored due to its broad activity, high stability, and simple structure resulting in low synthesis costs. An alanine scan showed that substitution of leucine with tryptophan increased the activity of this peptide twofold compared to the original peptide against D. vulgaris, the main representative of SRB. Additional optimization of this modified peptide through changes in amino acid composition and lipidations significantly increased the effectiveness, finally resulting in a minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of 15.63 μg/mL against Desulfovibrio vulgaris. Even against the marine SRB Desulfovibrio indonesiensis with a required salt concentration of min. 2%, an activity of the peptides can be observed (MIC: 31.25 μg/mL). The peptides also remained stable and active for 7 days in the supernatant of the bacterial culture.

Key points

• Antimicrobial peptides provide an alternative to combat biocorrosive bacteria.

• Optimization of the peptide sequence leads to a significant increase in activity.

• The investigated peptides exhibit high stability, both in the medium and in the bacterial supernatant.

Graphical abstract
Tau seeds occur before earliest Alzheimer’s changes and are prevalent across neurodegenerative diseases
Authors: Manca Matteo , Standke Heidi G. , Browne Danielle F. , Huntley Mikayla L. , Thomas Olivia R. , Orrú Christina D. , Hughson Andrew G. , Kim Yongya , Zhang Jing , Tatsuoka Curtis , Zhu Xiongwei , Hiniker Annie , Coughlin David G. , Galasko Douglas , Kraus Allison
Published: May 2023

Tau neurofibrillary tangles are a hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease neuropathological change. However, it remains largely unclear how distinctive Alzheimer’s disease tau seeds (i.e. 3R/4R) correlate with histological indicators of tau accumulation. Furthermore, AD tau co-pathology is thought to influence features and progression of other neurodegenerative diseases including Lewy body disease; yet measurements of different types of tau seeds in the setting of such diseases is an unmet need. Here, we use tau real-time quaking-induced conversion (RT-QuIC) assays to selectively quantitate 3R/4R tau seeds in the frontal lobe which accumulates histologically identifiable tau pathology at late disease stages of AD neuropathologic change. Seed quantitation across a spectrum of neurodegenerative disease cases and controls indicated tau seeding activity can be detected well before accompanying histopathological indication of tau deposits, and even prior to the earliest evidence of Alzheimer’s-related tau accumulation anywhere in the brain. In later stages of AD, 3R/4R tau RT-QuIC measures correlated with immunohistochemical tau burden. In addition, Alzheimer’s tau seeds occur in the vast majority of cases evaluated here inclusive of primary synucleinopathies, frontotemporal lobar degeneration and even controls albeit at multi-log lower levels than Alzheimer’s cases. α-synuclein seeding activity confirmed synucleinopathy cases and further indicated the co-occurrence of α-synuclein seeds in some Alzheimer’s disease and primary tauopathy cases. Our analysis indicates that 3R/4R tau seeds in the mid-frontal lobe correlate with the overall Braak stage and Alzheimer’s disease neuropathologic change, supporting the quantitative predictive value of tau RT-QuIC assays. Our data also indicate 3R/4R tau seeds are elevated in females compared to males at high (≥ IV) Braak stages. This study suggests 3R/4R tau seeds are widespread even prior to the earliest stages of Alzheimer’s disease changes, including in normal, and even young individuals, with prevalence across multiple neurodegenerative diseases to further define disease subtypes.
A novel subtype of sporadic Creutzfeldt–Jakob disease with PRNP codon 129MM genotype and PrP plaques
Authors: Bayazid Rabeah , Orru’ Christina , Aslam Rabail , Cohen Yvonne , Silva-Rohwer Amelia , Lee Seong-Ki , Occhipinti Rossana , Kong Qingzhong , Shetty Shashirekha , Cohen Mark L. , Caughey Byron , Schonberger Lawrence B. , Appleby Brian S. , Cali Ignazio
Published: May 2023

The presence of amyloid kuru plaques is a pathological hallmark of sporadic Creutzfeldt–Jakob disease (sCJD) of the MV2K subtype. Recently, PrP plaques (p) have been described in the white matter of a small group of CJD (p-CJD) cases with the 129MM genotype and carrying resPrPD type 1 (T1). Despite the different histopathological phenotype, the gel mobility and molecular features of p-CJD resPrPD T1 mimic those of sCJDMM1, the most common human prion disease. Here, we describe the clinical features, histopathology, and molecular properties of two distinct PrP plaque phenotypes affecting the gray matter (pGM) or the white matter (pWM) of sCJD cases with the PrP 129MM genotype (sCJDMM). Prevalence of pGM- and pWM-CJD proved comparable and was estimated to be ~ 0.6% among sporadic prion diseases and ~ 1.1% among the sCJDMM group. Mean age at onset (61 and 68 years) and disease duration (~ 7 months) of pWM- and pGM-CJD did not differ significantly. PrP plaques were mostly confined to the cerebellar cortex in pGM-CJD, but were ubiquitous in pWM-CJD. Typing of resPrPD T1 showed an unglycosylated fragment of ~ 20 kDa (T120) in pGM-CJD and sCJDMM1 patients, while a doublet of ~ 21–20 kDa (T121−20) was a molecular signature of pWM-CJD in subcortical regions. In addition, conformational characteristics of pWM-CJD resPrPD T1 differed from those of pGM-CJD and sCJDMM1. Inoculation of pWM-CJD and sCJDMM1 brain extracts to transgenic mice expressing human PrP reproduced the histotype with PrP plaques only in mice challenged with pWM-CJD. Furthermore, T120 of pWM-CJD, but not T121, was propagated in mice. These data suggest that T121 and T120 of pWM-CJD, and T120 of sCJDMM1 are distinct prion strains. Further studies are required to shed light on the etiology of p-CJD cases, particularly those of T120 of the novel pGM-CJD subtype.
Referral rate and false-positive rates in a hearing screening program among high-risk newborns
Authors: Thangavelu Kruthika , Martakis Kyriakos , Feldmann Silke , Roth Bernhard , Lang-Roth Ruth
Published: May 2023

Aim

More studies exploring referral rates and false-positive rates are needed to make hearing screening programs in newborns better and cost-effective. Our aim was to study the referral and false-positivity rates among high-risk newborns in our hearing screening program and to analyze the factors potentially associated with false-positive hearing screening test results.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was done among the newborns hospitalized at a university hospital from January 2009 to December 2014 that underwent hearing screening with a two-staged AABR screening protocol. Referral rates and false-positivity rates were calculated and possible risk factors for false-positivity were analyzed.

Results

4512 newborns were screened for hearing loss in the neonatology department. The referral rate for the two-staged AABR-only screening was 3.8% with false-positivity being 2.9%. Our study showed that the higher the birthweight or gestational age of the newborn, the lower the odds of the hearing screening results being false-positive, and the higher the chronological age of the infant at the time of screening, the higher the odds of the results being false-positive. Our study did not show a clear association between the mode of delivery or gender and false-positivity.

Conclusion

Among high-risk infants, prematurity and low-birthweight increased the rate of false-positivity in the hearing screening, and the chronological age at the time of the test seems to be significantly associated with false-positivity.
Associations of longitudinal height and weight with clinical outcomes in pediatric kidney replacement therapy: results from the ESPN/ERA Registry
Authors: Bonthuis Marjolein , Bakkaloglu Sevcan A. , Vidal Enrico , Baiko Sergey , Braddon Fiona , Errichiello Carmela , Francisco Telma , Haffner Dieter , Lahoche Annie , Leszczyńska Beata , Masalkiene Jurate , Stojanovic Jelena , Molchanova Maria S. , Reusz George , Barba Adela Rodriguez , Rosales Alejandra , Tegeltija Sanja , Ylinen Elisa , Zlatanova Galia , Harambat Jérôme , Jager Kitty J.
Published: May 2023

Background

Associations between anthropometric measures and patient outcomes in children are inconsistent and mainly based on data at kidney replacement therapy (KRT) initiation. We studied associations of height and body mass index (BMI) with access to kidney transplantation, graft failure, and death during childhood KRT.

Methods

We included patients < 20 years starting KRT in 33 European countries from 1995–2019 with height and weight data recorded to the ESPN/ERA Registry. We defined short stature as height standard deviation scores (SDS) < –1.88 and tall stature as height SDS > 1.88. Underweight, overweight and obesity were calculated using age and sex-specific BMI for height-age criteria. Associations with outcomes were assessed using multivariable Cox models with time-dependent covariates.

Results

We included 11,873 patients. Likelihood of transplantation was lower for short (aHR: 0.82, 95% CI: 0.78–0.86), tall (aHR: 0.65, 95% CI: 0.56–0.75), and underweight patients (aHR: 0.79, 95%CI: 0.71–0.87). Compared with normal height, patients with short and tall statures showed higher graft failure risk. All-cause mortality risk was higher in short (aHR: 2.30, 95% CI: 1.92–2.74), but not in tall stature. Underweight (aHR: 1.76, 95% CI: 1.38–2.23) and obese (aHR: 1.49, 95% CI: 1.11–1.99) patients showed higher all-cause mortality risk than normal weight subjects.

Conclusions

Short and tall stature and being underweight were associated with a lower likelihood of receiving a kidney allograft. Mortality risk was higher among pediatric KRT patients with a short stature or those being underweight or obese. Our results highlight the need for careful nutritional management and multidisciplinary approach for these patients.

Graphical abstract
Understanding the patient and family experience of nutrition and dietetic support during childhood cancer treatment
Authors: Clarke Emma , Pugh Gemma , van den Heuvel Eveline , Winstanley Mark , Wood Andrew C. , Laughton Stephen J. , Lovell Amy L.
Published: May 2023

Purpose

This study aimed to understand the experience of families caring for a child with cancer in New Zealand (NZ) who received nutrition and dietetic support during cancer treatment and their preferences for the delivery, format, and timing of nutrition information.

Methods

Childhood cancer patients and their families (N = 21) participated in a mixed-methods study at a specialist paediatric oncology centre in Auckland, NZ. Before the semi-structured interview, participants completed a questionnaire capturing demographic, disease, and treatment characteristics of their child, their nutrition concerns, and their information needs. Quantitative data were described, and qualitative thematic analysis of the semi-structured interviews was performed using NVivo data analysis software.

Results

Eighty-six percent of participants indicated they had concerns about their child’s nutrition during treatment. The most common concerns were anorexia, vomiting, and weight loss. While many were happy with the quality of the nutrition support received, one-third of the patients wanted more support. Four key themes emerged from the interviews: (1) patients experience significant and distressing nutrition challenges; (2) patients and families have mixed perceptions of EN; (3) there are gaps in the current nutrition support system for inpatients; and (4) a desire for more accessible nutrition support.

Conclusion

Childhood cancer patients and families experience significant and distressing nutrition challenges during treatment. Standardising information given to patients and their families may optimise nutrition support for paediatric oncology patients and reduce the discordance between families and health professionals. Future implementation of a nutrition decision aid in this population is warranted.
Versorgungswirksamkeit von Psychotherapie aus Patient:innensicht
Authors: Löffler-Stastka Henriette , Hassemer Simeon , Krajic Karl
Published: May 2023

Zum Thema der Versorgung mit Psychotherapie sind Informationen über das Ausmaß des Behandlungsbedarfs und des Behandlungserhalts wesentlich. Da oft nur ein Teil der psychisch Kranken die entsprechenden Behandlungen erhält, wurde die Sicht der Betroffenen zum Thema der psychotherapeutischen Versorgung erhoben. Deutlich wurde eine fehlende Transparenz, der aus Behandler:innensicht mit einer adäquaten, patient:innenzentrierten Information und Aufklärung in der tragfähigen Arbeitsbeziehung gegengesteuert werden sollte.
Structural transitions in jammed asymmetric bidisperse granular packings
Authors: Petit Juan C. , Sperl Matthias
Published: May 2023

We study the local structural changes along the jamming transitions in asymmetric bidisperse granular packings. The local structure of the packing is assessed by the contact orientational order, $$\tilde{Q}_{\ell }$$

Q
~

ℓ

, that quantifies the contribution of each contact configuration (Large–Large, Small–Small, Large–Small, Small–Large) in the jammed structure. The partial values of $$\tilde{Q}_{\ell }$$

Q
~

ℓ

are calculated with respect to known ordered lattices that are fixed by the size ratio, $$\delta $$
δ
, of the particles. We find that the packing undergoes a structural transition at $$\phi _J$$

ϕ
J

, manifested by a sudden jump in the partial $$\tilde{Q}_{\ell }$$

Q
~

ℓ

. Each contact configuration contributes to the jammed structure in a different way, changing with $$\delta $$
δ
and concentration of small particles, $$X_{\textrm{S}}$$

X
S

. The results show not only that the packing undergoes a structural change upon jamming, but also that bidisperse packings exhibit local HCP and FCC structures also found in monodisperse packings. This suggests that the jammed structure of bidisperse systems is inherently endowed with local structural order. These results are relevant in understanding how the arrangement of particles determines the strength of bidisperse granular packings.

Graphic abstract
Submarine Groundwater Discharge-Derived Nutrient Fluxes in Eckernförde Bay (Western Baltic Sea)
Authors: Kreuzburg M. , Scholten J. , Hsu Feng-Hsin , Liebetrau V. , Sültenfuß J. , Rapaglia J. , Schlüter M.
Published: May 2023

Excess nutrient supply by the rivers and the atmosphere are considered as the major causes for the persistently poor ecological status of the Baltic Sea. More than 97% of the Baltic Sea still suffers from eutrophication due to past and present inputs of nitrogen and phosphorus. One of the poorly quantified nutrient sources in the Baltic Sea is submarine groundwater discharge (SGD). Through seepage meter deployments and a radium mass balance model, a widespread occurrence of SGD along the coastline of Eckernförde Bay was detected. Mean SGD was 21.6 cm d−1 with a calculated freshwater fraction of 17%. Where SGD was detected, pore water sampled by a piezometer revealed a wide range of dissolved inorganic nitrogen (DIN: 0.05–1.722 µmol L−1) and phosphate (PO43−: 0.03–70.5 µmol L−1) concentrations. Mean DIN and PO43− concentrations in non-saline (salinity < 1) pore waters were 59 ± 68 µmol L−1 and 1.2 ± 1.9 µmol L−1, respectively; whereas pore water with salinities > 1 revealed higher values, 113 ± 207 µmol L−1 and 6 ± 12 µmol L−1 for DIN and PO43−, respectively. The nutrient concentrations along the salinity gradient do not suggest that land-derived groundwater is the definitive source of nutrients in the Baltic Sea. Still, SGD may contribute to a major autochthonous nutrient source, resulting from remineralization or dissolution processes of organic matter in the sediments. The DIN and PO43− fluxes derived from SGD rates through seepage meters are 7.9 ± 9.2 mmol m−2 d−1 and 0.5 ± 0.4 mmol m−2 d−1, lower by a factor of ~ 2 and ~ 5 when compared to the fluxes derived with the radium mass balance model (mean DIN: 19 ± 28 mmol m−2 d−1; mean PO43−: 1.5 ± 2.7 mmol m−2 d−1). Assuming that these mean radium-based nutrient fluxes are representative for the coastline of Eckernförde Bay, we arrive at SGD-borne nutrient fluxes of about 1 t km−1 y−1 of nitrogen and 0.2 t km−1 y−1 of phosphorous. These fluxes are lower for DIN and in the same range for phosphorus as compared to the riverine nutrient supply (DIN: 6.3 t km−1 y−1, P: 0.2 km−1 y−1) to the German Baltic Sea identifying SGD-borne nutrients as a secondary nutrient source to the Baltic Sea.
Neurocognitive outcomes in pediatric brain tumors after treatment with proton versus photon radiation: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Lassaletta Álvaro , Morales Javier S. , Valenzuela Pedro L. , Esteso Borja , Kahalley Lisa S. , Mabbott Donald J. , Unnikrishnan Soumya , Panizo Elena , Calvo Felipe
Published: May 2023

Background

Advances in cancer treatments, particularly the development of radiation therapy, have led to improvements in survival outcomes in children with brain tumors. However, radiation therapy is associated with significant long-term neurocognitive morbidity. The present systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to compare the neurocognitive outcomes of children and adolescents with brain tumors treated with photon radiation (XRT) or proton therapy (PBRT).

Methods

A systematic search was conducted (PubMed, Embase, Cochrane, and Web of Science from inception until 02/01/2022) for studies comparing the neurocognitive outcomes of children and adolescents with brain tumors treated with XRTvs. PBRT. The pooled mean differences (expressed as Z scores) were calculated using a random effects method for those endpoints analyzed by a minimum of three studies.

Results

Totally 10 studies (n = 630 patients, average age range: 1–20 years) met the inclusion criteria. Patients who had received PBRT achieved significantly higher scores (difference in Z scores ranging from 0.29–0.75, allP < 0.05 and significant in sensitivity analyses) after treatment than those who had received XRT for most analyzed neurocognitive outcomes (i.e., intelligence quotient, verbal comprehension and perceptual reasoning indices, visual motor integration, and verbal memory). No robust significant differences (P > 0.05 in main analyses or sensitivity analyses) were found for nonverbal memory, verbal working memory and working memory index, processing speed index, or focused attention.

Conclusions

Pediatric brain tumor patients who receive PBRT achieve significantly higher scores on most neurocognitive outcomes than those who receive XRT. Larger studies with long-term follow-ups are needed to confirm these results.
Simulation-Based Characterization of Tube-Cap Resistance Butt Welding of Nuclear Fuel for Light Water Reactors and Development of Melted-Volume Prediction Models
Authors: Na Tae-Hyung
Published: May 2023

The most important process in the manufacture of light-water reactor nuclear fuel rods is tube-cap welding, which serves to seal radioactive uranium materials. Tube-cap welding is a method commonly used in production by sealing various materials into tubes and caps, and is used in the manufacture of fuel rods in nuclear power plants. In this study, the simulation-based characterization of tube-cap welding was carried out to understand the underlying mechanisms that govern the welding process and to use a model that can predict the melted volume during the welding process. The simulation results were then used to analyze the effects of various welding parameters on the melted volume during welding process. To analyze the mechanism of welding phenomena in the tube-cap welding, various weld variables such as welding current, overlap length, and force were used. Those are the main variables in the tube-cap welding used in nuclear fuel rods manufacturing thought simulation. To predict the melted volume of the weld, a regression model and a neural network were used to predict the amount of melt using the process with the main process variables as input variables. The study quantitatively determined the effects of each welding variable on the melted volume and analyzed the correlation between two factors.
Prognostic factors and the necessity of chemotherapy for stage II gastric cancer: a model based on multicenter retrospective study
Authors: Fang Jiaming , Zhang Feiyang , Lu Jun , Deng Zijian , Li Xianzhe , Chen Xijie , Huang Changming , Chen Yingbo , Lian Lei , Peng Junsheng , Chen Shi
Published: May 2023

Background

This study aimed to construct a prognostic model for prognosis prediction and assess the response to adjuvant chemotherapy (ACT) of stage II gastric cancer (GC) patients on high and low survival risk stratifications.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed 547 stage II gastric cancer patients who underwent D2 radical gastrectomy from January 2009 to May 2017 in Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University (SAH-SYSU), the Fujian Medical University Union Hospital (FJUUH), and the Sun Yat-Sen University Cancer Center (SYSUCC).The propensity score matching (PSM) of all variables was performed to balance selective bias between ACT and surgery alone (SA) groups. Kaplan–Meier survival and multivariate Cox regression analyses were carried out to identify independent prognostic factors. Independent factors selected by the Cox regression were integrated into the nomogram. The nomogram points stratified patients into high-risk and low-risk groups by the optimal cut-off value.

Results

278 patients were selected after PSM. Age, tumor site, T stage and lymph-nodes-examined (LNE) selected by Cox regression as independent prognostic factors were integrated into the nomogram. The nomogram performed well with a C-index of 0.76 and with C-indexes of 0.73 in and 0.71 in two validate cohorts. AUCs of the 3 year and 5 year ROC curves were 0.81 and 0.78. High- and low-risk groups stratified by the cut-off value demonstrated different responses to ACT.

Conclusions

The nomogram performed well in prognosis prediction. Patients in high- and low-risk groups demonstrated different responses to ACT, and high-risk patients might need ACT.
A Neutronics Study of the Initial Fuel Cycle Extension in APR-1400 Reactors: Examining Homogeneous and Heterogeneous Enrichment Design
Authors: Alrwashdeh Mohammad , Alameri Saeed A.
Published: May 2023

In this study, we conducted a neutronics analysis of a soluble-free-boron APR-1400 reactor core. Our goal was to explore the possibility of extending the fuel life cycle from 18 to 24 months. To achieve this, we examined both homogeneous and heterogeneous fuel enrichment designs while maintaining the original fuel geometries of the reactor. The proposed fuel enrichments for the homogeneous reactor core were 3.0%, 3.5%, 4.0%, 4.5%, and 4.95%. For the heterogeneous reactor core, they were (3.6%, 4.0%, 4.5%, and 5.0%) and (3.4%, 3.8%, 4.5%, and 5.0%). To suppress excess reactivity at the beginning of the fuel cycle (BOC), we applied an Integral Fuel Burnable Absorber as a thin coating layer on the outer surface of the fuel pellets. The coating was distributed uniformly throughout the core. In addition, we also studied the use of selected cladding materials as a replacement for the conventional zircaloy used in the fuel rods. The neutronics calculations for the modified APR-1400 core configuration were performed using the Serpent 2.1.31 Monte Carlo reactor physics code. We evaluated the behavior of the APR-1400 core by analyzing the effective multiplication factor, flux spectrum, pin power distribution, and radial power profile. Both the homogeneous and heterogeneous cores were compared with the reference APR-1400 core configuration. Our results indicate that it is possible to extend the fuel cycle to up to 24 months in both the homogeneous and heterogeneous cores. We also conducted a thorough analysis of the initial cycle for heterogeneous cores to consider more realistic scenarios.