bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cross-taxon analysis in the highly threatened Mediterranean dunes reveals consistent diversity patterns in butterfly and plant communities
Authors: Rasino Micaela del Valle , Fattorini Simone , Sciarretta Andrea , Colacci Marco , Stanisci Angela , Carranza Maria Laura
Published: August 2024

Butterflies and plant species are widely used as model systems in biodiversity and conservation research. However, little is known about spatial patterns of butterfly diversity linked to plant communities across coastal dune ecotones. We explored the relation between butterfly and vegetation diversity in a Mediterranean protected dune system in Central Italy. We sampled butterfly and plant communities on shifting and fixed dunes and investigated their distribution patterns by diversity indexes and Species Abundance Diversity models (SADs). We also computed species beta-diversity and analyzed the relation between butterfly communities and vegetation by correlation analyses. Cross-taxon congruence in species richness, composition and abundance was assessed using Mantel correlation tests. Both butterfly and plant diversity were higher on the fixed dunes than on the shifting dunes. In both communities, SADs were adequately described by the geometric series model, which is typical of harsh environments with simple communities dominated by few species. Among both butterflies and plants, we identified species found only on either the shifting or the fixed dunes. Correlation between plant and butterfly diversity was higher for entomophilous plant species than for the more abundant anemophilous ones. Our results indicate that both plant and butterfly communities respond to the sea-inland environmental gradient, forming distinct communities with specialized taxa. Our findings also provide evidence of the importance of butterfly-plant relations for preserving biological diversity and ecosystem functioning in Mediterranean coastal areas.
Creating the conditions for student success through curriculum reform: the impact of an active learning, immersive block model
Authors: Wilson Erica , Roche Thomas , Goode Elizabeth , McKenzie John W.
Published: August 2024

Outcomes in higher education (HE) are influenced by the learning conditions created for students. The traditional model of HE, where students attend content-focused lectures over 12–15-week semesters, may not provide the conditions that best meet the learning needs of increasingly diverse HE cohorts. This study assessed the extent to which an immersive block model, a non-traditional form of HE delivery that employs active learning pedagogy and engages students in shorter, more focused periods of study, might enable higher student achievement and satisfaction compared to a traditional semester model. The study examined achievement (N = 27,528) and satisfaction (N = 7924) data from a public Australian university that has moved all coursework units into a 6-week immersive block model. Inferential statistical tests were used to compare results between the traditional semester and immersive block delivery over a 3-year period, as well as with results from control groups that stayed in the traditional model. Results demonstrate that immersive block learning underpinned by an active learning pedagogy has had a statistically significant positive impact on the academic success of various cohorts of undergraduate learners. Stronger improvements in student success were observed in first-year units compared to second and third-year units, suggesting that the immersive block model may be particularly beneficial for students transitioning into HE. Satisfaction was statistically lower relative to the traditional model, particularly in science and engineering, suggesting a need for further investigation into causes of lower satisfaction in these disciplines.
Prognostic value of non-invasive programmed ventricular stimulation after VT ablation to predict VT recurrences
Authors: Müller Julian , Chakarov Ivaylo , Nentwich Karin , Berkovitz Artur , Barth Sebastian , Ausbüttel Felix , Wächter Christian , Lehrmann Heiko , Deneke Thomas
Published: August 2024

Background

The prognostic value of (non)-invasive programmed ventricular stimulation (NIPS) to predict recurrences of ventricular tachycardia (VT) is under discussion. Optimal endpoints of VT ablation are not well defined, and optimal timepoint of NIPS is unknown. The goal of this study was to evaluate the ability of programmed ventricular stimulation at the end of the VT ablation procedure (PVS) and NIPS after VT ablation to identify patients at high risk for VT recurrence.

Methods

Between January 2016 and February 2022, consecutive patients with VT and structural heart disease undergoing first VT ablation and consecutive NIPS were included. In total, 138 patients were included. All patients underwent NIPS through their implanted ICDs after a median of 3 (1–5) days after ablation (at least 2 drive cycle lengths (500 and 400 ms) and up to four right ventricular extrastimuli until refractoriness). Clinical VT was defined by comparison with 12-lead electrocardiograms and stored ICD electrograms from spontaneous VT episodes. Patients were followed for a median of 37 (13–61) months.

Results

Of the 138 patients, 104 were non-inducible (75%), 27 were inducible for non-clinical VTs (20%), and 7 for clinical VT (5%). In 107 patients (78%), concordant results of PVS and NIPS were observed. After 37 ± 20 months, the recurrence rate for any ventricular arrhythmia was 40% (normal NIPS 29% vs. inducible VT during NIPS 66%; log-rank p = 0.001) and for clinical VT was 3% (normal NIPS 1% vs. inducible VT during NIPS 9%; log-rank p = 0.045). Positive predictive value (PPV) and negative predictive value (NPV) of NIPS were higher compared to PVS (PPV: 65% vs. 46% and NPV: 68% vs. 61%). NIPS revealed the highest NPV among patients with ICM and LVEF > 35%. Patients with inducible VT during NIPS had the highest VT recurrences and overall mortality. Patients with both negative PVS and NIPS had the lowest any VT recurrence rates with 32%. Early re-ablation of patients with recurrent VTs during index hospitalization was feasible but did not reveal better long-term VT-free survival.

Conclusions

In patients after VT ablation and structural heart disease, NIPS is superior to post-ablation PVS to stratify the risk of VT recurrences. The PPV and NPV of NIPS at day 3 were superior compared to PVS at the end of the procedure to predict recurrent VT, especially in patients with ICM.

Graphical Abstract
A Relational Frame Theory-Based Intervention for Improving Reading and Mathematical Competencies Among School Children
Authors: Stricker Charles , Mao Jin , Cassidy Sarah , Colbert Dylan , Roche Bryan
Published: August 2024

The current study examined the effect of an online relational skills training program, strengthening mental abilities with relational training (SMART), on scores on standardized classroom diagnostic assessments. Several previous studies suggested that this novel intervention has a reliable impact on intelligence scores and some domains of cognitive ability relevant in the educational setting. The current study employed a single-blind design and a matched control group in the delivery of the SMART intervention in 45-min sessions 1–3 times per week over approximately 10 weeks, with students completing the intervention within two weeks of each other. Standardized classroom diagnostic assessments were delivered pre- and post-intervention. The results showed that, controlling for baseline scores, the intervention group performed significantly better than the controls in the mathematics and reading domains post-intervention. Gains in both reading and mathematics were large and significant from pre- to post-intervention for the treatment group, but modest significant gains were also found for the control group.
Take Action, Recover Well? The Role of Daily Proactive Recovery Strategies for Recovery, Stress, Affect, and Next-Day Performance
Authors: Kujanpää Miika , Olafsen Anja Hagen
Published: August 2024

Although both employee wellbeing and performance are valued by organizations, achieving them conjointly is not simple in practice. Prior studies have highlighted the role of daily experiences of recovery from work stress for employee wellbeing and performance. In a work-life characterized by pressures to intensify the pace of work, employees may increasingly use proactive efforts to shape their daily off-job time to effectively recover from stress and maintain their wellbeing and performance. Based on the integrative needs model of crafting, effort-recovery model, and conservation of resources theory as guiding frameworks, we examine whether employees’ daily proactive recovery strategies predict daily off-job and work stress, affect, and subjective work performance through enhanced recovery experiences. Daily diary measurements were collected among a sample of 377 Norwegian employees across a period of two weeks in early 2022 (from Monday to Thursday, i.e., eight measurement days in total). Results of Bayesian multilevel models showed that crafting for detachment, for relaxation, and for autonomy during off-job time negatively predicted off-job stress and negative affect through matching recovery experiences, whereas crafting for mastery positively predicted positive affect through mastery experiences. Crafting for relaxation and for autonomy were directly negatively related to next-day work stress, but these effects were not mediated by matching recovery experiences. Crafting for autonomy positively predicted next-day self-rated work performance through control experiences. Our study contributes to the literature on recovery from work by highlighting proactive recovery strategies as important initiators of daily recovery processes.
Barriers to Initiating Psychotherapy Faced by Jewish-Identified People in the United States
Authors: Berman Anna Jean , Woolley Scott
Published: August 2024

The researchers investigated stigma against psychotherapy, Jewish culture, Rabbinical influence, and religiosity as perceived barriers by Jewish persons in the United States when initiating psychotherapy (n = 94). Researchers discovered stigma as a barrier (p = 0.015). Age, location, gender, and relationship status were added as predictors, revealing male gender (t(84) = 6.257, p < 0.001) as a negative predictor, and Rabbinical influence (t(84) = 2.049, p = 0.044) as a positive predictor for initiating psychotherapy.
Assessing Teachers’ Knowledge of How to Use Computer Programming in Science and Technology Education
Authors: Karlsen Niklas , Henriksen Ellen Karoline , Pajchel Katarina
Published: August 2024

Programming and computational thinking have been introduced into the curricula of several countries, also in relation to science and technology education. Preparing pre-service teachers for using programming in science education is therefore an important and relevant task. The purpose of this article is to describe what knowledge may be relevant for teachers who are to use programming in science and technology education and to propose a questionnaire to aid in assessing this knowledge. The proposed questionnaire can be used for tracking development over time and for identifying areas where teachers need more knowledge.
Theorizing democratic conflicts beyond agonism
Authors: August Vincent , Westphal Manon
Published: August 2024

While democratic societies experience intense conflicts about topics such as migration and climate action, there is no sound theory of democratic conflict. Agonistic theories emphasize the importance of conflict for democracy, but disregard conflict dynamics. Conflict sociology has focused on international or violent conflicts and neglects democratic conflicts. This article shows how this lacuna can be overcome. First, it develops an innovative, empirically informed processual approach to democratic conflicts. To this end, it draws on a broad range of scholarship from sociology and social psychology, and integrates relevant insights into a processual framework for analyzing democratic conflicts that explores mechanisms of escalation, de-escalation, and reconciliation. Second, the article illustrates how this approach can ground a more elaborated democratic theory of conflict that concretizes how and when conflicts are beneficial to democracy, and explores the practices and institutions that democracies employ to cope with different conflict dynamics.
Thirty-five years of sensemaking in the business & management research: a bibliometric analysis, review and discussion
Authors: Eckstein Gary , Shrestha Anup , Russo Fiona
Published: August 2024

Sensemaking is widely acknowledged as providing valuable guidance on how individuals and groups organize to perceive issues at stake, thereby lessening the negative impacts of future unknowns. Sensemaking is not a new field, yet events surrounding the recent COVID-19 pandemic may benefit from a sensemaking perspective. While prior reviews have considered sensemaking research, this is arguably the first bibliometric review of sensemaking and its application across the entire business and management domain. From 2,838 articles, we used performance analysis and science mapping techniques to offer propositions and avenues for future research. We advance theory and offer practical implications by identifying and providing context about prominent theorists, authors, journals, articles, and environments where sensemaking has been studied. Thirty-five years after the first article on sensemaking was published, this paper offers an extensive review demonstrating the evolution, current interests, and future directions of sensemaking research in the business and management discipline.
Comparative analysis of bacterial populations in sulfonylurea-sensitive and -resistant weeds: insights into community composition and catabolic gene dynamics
Authors: Homa Jan , Wilms Wiktoria , Marcinkowska Katarzyna , Cyplik Paweł , Ławniczak Łukasz , Woźniak-Karczewska Marta , Niemczak Michał , Chrzanowski Łukasz
Published: August 2024

This study aimed to compare the impact of iodosulfuron-methyl-sodium and an iodosulfuron-based herbicidal ionic liquid (HIL) on the microbiomes constituting the epiphytes and endophytes of cornflower (Centaurea cyanus L.). The experiment involved biotypes of cornflower susceptible and resistant to acetolactate synthase inhibition, examining potential bacterial involvement in sulfonylurea herbicide detoxification. We focused on microbial communities present on the surface and in the plant tissues of roots and shoots. The research included the synthesis and physicochemical analysis of a novel HIL, evaluation of shifts in bacterial community composition, analysis of the presence of catabolic genes associated with sulfonylurea herbicide degradation and determination of their abundance in all experimental variants. Overall, for the susceptible biotype, the biodiversity of the root microbiome was higher compared to shoot microbiome; however, both decreased notably after herbicide or HIL applications. The herbicide-resistant biotype showed lower degree of biodiversity changes, but shifts in community composition occurred, particularly in case of HIL treatment.

Graphical Abstract
Lehrende unterstützen Lernende beim mathematischen Argumentieren mit Feedback-Dialogen – eine Mixed Methods-Studie
Authors: Hess Kurt , Smit Robbert
Published: August 2024

Wir schätzten in einer sequenziell erklärenden Mixed Methods-Studie (MMS) die Qualität von Feedback-Dialogen (QFD) zwischen Lehrenden und einzelnen Lernenden während Unterrichtsphasen zum mathematischen Argumentieren ein und prüften die lernseitigen Fortschritte nach einer 9‑wöchigen Intervention in fünften und sechsten Primarschulklassen. Höchste und tiefste QFD-Werte sowie grösste und geringste klassenbezogene Leistungssteigerungen bildeten die quantitativen Kriterien für die Auswahl von je zwei Lehrenden, die wir bezüglich ‚Überzeugungen zum mathematischen Argumentieren’ und dessen ‚Unterstützung mit Feedbacks’ interviewten und qualitativ auswerteten. Die daraus hervorgehenden Dispositionen wurden mit der QFD – als fremdeingeschätzte Performanz – und den Schülerleistungen verglichen. Die Interviews spiegeln fast einheitliche, (sozial-) konstruktivistische, struktur- und kommunikationsorientierte Überzeugungen. Einzig die beiden Lehrpersonen mit geringsten klassenbezogenen Fortschritten fallen mit instruktional geprägten Aussagen auf und lassen auf eine ungünstige Beziehung zwischen der lehrseitigen Einstellung und den klassenbezogenen Fortschritten schliessen. Die Frage, warum sich zwei Klassen maximal steigerten, beantworten wir vor dem Hintergrund der Lehr- und Lernbedingungen: Kleine Klassen, wenige Kinder mit Deutsch als Zweitsprache und zusätzlichem Förderbedarf erklären die Fortschritte eher als die quantitativen Auswahlkriterien. Die Studie trägt zur grundsätzlichen Klärung bei, welche subjektiven Überzeugungen hinter der intersubjektiv eingeschätzten Unterstützung des Argumentierens und hinter klassenbezogenen Fortschritten stehen.
Understanding Myeloma-Related Information Needs and Communication Preferences Within Black American Communities: An Exploratory Study
Authors: Esquivel N. S. , Tzeng J. P. , Treiman K. , Husick C. H. , Sheridan J. , Ortiz-Ravick L. , Sae-Hau M. , Brown L. , DeMairo K. , Bell N. , Disare K. , Weiss E. S.
Published: August 2024

Myeloma is the third most common blood cancer and one of the most complex and expensive cancers to treat. Black Americans face health disparities related to myeloma incidence, age at diagnosis, access to novel treatments, and mortality. To help reduce health disparities among Black Americans through education and outreach, the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society has implemented its Myeloma Link initiative. In 2022, a formative, qualitative evaluation was conducted across the 15 U.S. cities that implemented Myeloma Link to better understand the information and communication needs and preferences of three groups: patients, community members, and primary care providers (PCPs). Data collection included interviews with eight patients, two focus groups with a total of ten community members, and interviews with six PCPs. Patients expressed wanting information about treatment experiences, including clinical trials, and emotional and peer support services, particularly from other Black American patients. Community members were largely unfamiliar with myeloma and desired outreach via trusted community organizations about disease signs and symptoms. Both groups discussed the importance of self-advocacy within the current healthcare system and wanted actionable messaging, rather than messaging leading with disparities statistics. PCPs described systemic capacity and time challenges in the context of needing to address more frequently encountered health conditions; nonetheless, PCPs welcomed information and brief trainings about myeloma diagnosis and treatment options, referrals to specialists, and how to improve care, prognosis, and caregiver support. Findings underscore the importance of outreach initiatives such as Myeloma Link to help meet these needs and reduce health disparities.
Stance detection in Arabic with a multi-dialectal cross-domain stance corpus
Authors: Charfi Anis , Bessghaier Mabrouka , Atalla Andria , Akasheh Raghda , Al-Emadi Sara , Zaghouani Wajdi
Published: August 2024

We present a cross-domain and multi-dialectal stance corpus for Arabic, covering the major dialect groups and four Arab regions. This research provides an important language resource for automating the task of stance detection in Dialectal Arabic while carefully considering the subtle differences in stance expression across various dialects. More than 4500 sentences in our corpus have been carefully annotated according to their stance with regard to a certain subject. We gathered sentences associated with two controversial topics for every region and we had at least two annotators annotate each sentence to indicate if the author is supporting, opposing, or neutral to the sentence’s topic. Our corpus shows high balance between dialect and stance. About half of the sentences in each region are written in Modern Standard Arabic, while the other half are written in the specific dialect of that region. To evaluate our corpus, we performed a number of machine-learning experiments for the stance detection task. The best performance was achieved by AraBERT with an accuracy and an F1-score of 0.82. Furthermore, we trained and tested this model on the most similar state-of-the-art stance dataset, “MAWQIF”. The comparison results demonstrate how crucial it is to maintain balance among the three stance classes in our dataset. In particular, the model scored better when using our stance corpus than when using the MAWQIF dataset especially for the “Neutral” stance class. Using our best performing model, we developed a Web-based demonstrator for stance detection in dialectal Arabic and we show its effectiveness in analyzing stance in the context of two real-world scenarios: product boycott in the Arab world and customer reviews of a soft drink company.
Material needs security and mental health outcomes in adults with type 2 Diabetes in Lebanon: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Sukkarieh Ola , Bassil Maya , Egede Leonard E.
Published: August 2024

Objectives

Despite their documented significance in type 2 diabetes (T2DM) management, social determinants of health (SDOHs) including material needs security and mental health outcomes are understudied in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. This study aims to assess the relation between material needs security and mental health outcomes in Lebanese adults with T2DM.

Methods

Subjects with T2DM (N = 300) were recruited from primary health care centers in Lebanon. Sociodemographic, material need variables, depression measured by Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9), and diabetes fatalism measured by Diabetes Fatalism Scale (DFS) were collected.

Results

Most of the participants were men, married and with lower educational levels. Multivariate analyses revealed that having material needs security was associated with diabetes fatalism (β = -0.63(-1.13; -0.12)), and depression (β = -0.46(-0.78; -0.13)). Also, higher age (β = 3.49(0.91; 6.06)) and education (β = 3.42(1.18; 5.66)), and lower income (β = 3.25(0.62; 5.88)) were independently associated with diabetes fatalism. Being male was the only independent variable associated with less depression (β = -1.56(-2.97; -0.14)).

Conclusion

Our study highlights the importance of material needs security on mental health outcomes for adults with T2DM in the MENA region. Clinicians are encouraged to assess the impact of material needs on mental health outcomes. Further research is needed to understand potential pathways/mechanisms and options for effective interventions and policymaking.
RBFsim – A tool for early planning stage of riverbank filtration systems
Authors: Yadav Prabhas Kumar , Batheja Vibhu , Köhler Anton , Cantarella Vitor , Tufail Mudassar , Werth Charles , Grischek Thomas
Published: August 2024

Riverbank filtration (RBF) is increasingly being considered an effective method to support the management of water supply and the management of groundwater-river water exchange. Literature, however, provides very limited methods for the initial evaluation of the RBF system. Specifically, initial evaluations need to rely on limited data, be cost-effective, and provide sufficient useful output. The paper provides the development of a tool called RBFsim, designed for the early assessment of flow hydraulics in a riverbank filtration (RBF) scheme during site selection and optimization of well operation. The developed tool allows simplified computation (based on the Analytical Element Method or AEM) of the flow field for single and multiple wells in a 2D homogeneous and isotropic aquifer with uniform flow. The tool superimposes analytical solutions for key RBF quantities such as residence time (the time required for river water to reach the well) and the proportions of water (contributed by the river and groundwater) in the well discharge. These solutions are superimposed on the developed flow field. Additionally, the tool can be used to evaluate the impact of riverbed clogging on the operation of the RBF system. The simplified computation due to AEM and limited data requirements allows the tool to be used in handheld (smartphones) or desktop devices with or without internet connection. RBFsim results are verified by comparing them with results from MODFLOW and MODPATH simulations, which are based on entirely different (finite difference) computational schemes. The obtained results from both these models match within the error margin of less than 5%. Further, the practicality and applicability of RBFsim are illustrated using synthetic and field data. While the tool provides a matching river water contribution ratio with field data, it demonstrates the best-fit residence times primarily for higher well discharge rates. These limitations are attributed to complexities observed in the field, such as a heterogeneous aquifer and nonuniform flow. Overall, the developed tool simplifies the complex computations required, particularly for assessing the feasibility and risk of RBF schemes. The developed tool’s methods and code are open-sourced (licensed under CC-BY 4.0), which promotes personalized modifications and extensions.
(Not So) Lost in Translation: Considering the GA4GH Diversity in Datasets Policy in the Japanese Context
Authors: Sato Momoko , Muto Kaori , Momozawa Yukihide , Joly Yann
Published: August 2024

The genomics community has long acknowledged the lack of diversity in datasets used for research, prompting various stakeholders to confront this issue. In response, the Global Alliance for Genomics and Health (GA4GH) formulated a policy framework that recognizes the multiplicity of perspectives on diversity and proposed a systemic approach for more optimal data diversity. Given the importance of the research context, assessing this policy’s applicability within countries where diversity is less discussed is important. This study investigated the feasibility of implementing the GA4GH policy in Japan, a nation with a smaller genetic diversity than many Western countries. As the proportion of East Asian genomic research is limited internationally, focusing on the Japanese genome contributes to enhancing diversity. Meanwhile, labelling findings as “Japanese” can inadvertently reinforce perceptions of homogeneity and overlook ethnic minorities. Regions and socioeconomic status are also recognized as substantial factors of diversity within academia, yet concerns persist among the public regarding the heritability of stigmatized conditions. Social inclusion of sexual minorities has begun in Japan, but research surveys generally still use binary sex and gender categories, which underscores the need for additional variables. This study found that both academia and the public need to confront the overemphasis on homogeneity within Japanese society and hesitancy in addressing genetic factors. By doing so, more inclusive and diverse datasets can advance the field both ethically and scientifically. Perhaps the most important impact of the GA4GH policy will be to draw greater attention to the complex diversity challenges ahead in Japan.
Increasing virulence and decreasing fungicide sensitivity in Phytophthora capsici after continuous metalaxyl-chlorothalonil exposure
Authors: Sevillano-Serrano Jacobo , Larsen John , Rojas-Rojas Fernando Uriel , Vega-Arreguín Julio C.
Published: August 2024

Several fungicide products with metalaxyl-chlorothalonil as the active ingredients are available in the Mexican market. Applying products containing this mixture of molecules is a common method that farmers choose to prevent damage caused to crops by Phytophthora capsici. Despite the efficacy of the mixture of metalaxyl-chlorothalonil in controlling the growth of this pathogen, their intensive use could contribute to the development of multidrug-resistant strains. Additionally, the dynamics of resistance to commercial metalaxyl-chlorothalonil-based fungicides and the virulence of P. capsici during continuous exposure are yet to be studied in detail. In this study, four continuous generations of P. capsici were exposed to two concentrations (5 and 100 μg·mL−1) of a commercial fungicide containing metalaxyl-chlorothalonil as the active ingredients. Changes in morphology, growth, and virulence were observed after the first interaction with the fungicide. However, in further generations exposed to the same amount of the product, the morphology and growth of P. capsici were partially restored, whereas its virulence was completely re-established. These results indicate a rapid adaptation to the metalaxyl-chlorothalonil mixture and highlight the importance of using different methods to control P. capsici and prevent the development of more virulent and multidrug-resistant strains.
Environmental and socio-cultural transition from traditional courtyard dwellings to contemporary housing practices in Morocco: insights from Arab and East Asian regions
Authors: Chahbi Mariame
Published: August 2024

This research explores the socio-cultural shifts in housing practices, specifically the transition from traditional courtyard dwellings to contemporary housing arrangements in Morocco. The courtyard housing typology, with its roots in Neolithic settlements, embodies a fusion of local architectural traditions with modern techniques, offering inspiration for humane and sustainable design. Influenced by social, environmental, and cultural factors, the courtyard house has played a pivotal role in the traditional Moroccan architecture. This research study employs a qualitative methodology based on secondary data sources, conducting case studies in different climatic regions to explore the socio-cultural shifts from traditional courtyard dwellings to contemporary housing practices in Morocco. The study also provides insights from successful examples from Arab and East-Asian regions to provide evidence of the applicability of courtyards in diverse cultural contexts. These case studies provide in-depth examinations of the modern transformations of courtyard housing and the emergence of collective housing models. This research aims to provide a holistic understanding of the socio-cultural dynamics shaping housing practices in Morocco, while drawing valuable insights from modern transformation of courtyard housing examples in Arab and East Asian regions. The challenge lies in adapting these insights to create modern courtyard houses aligned with current needs exploring the potential for a contemporary revival of courtyard design, blending past and present values to create responsive urban forms that meet the evolving needs of modern society.
Review on the effects of solvent physical properties on the performance of slot-die coated perovskite solar cells
Authors: Ma Yujiao , Liu Chong , Zhang Mingyu , Mai Yaohua
Published: August 2024

Slot-die coating (SDC) has become a great method for fabricating large-area perovskite solar cells and modules due to controllable film thickness, high solution utilization rate, wide solution viscosity range and fast response speed. During the coating process, solvent properties play important roles in the formation of perovskite films, which further affects the device performance. This review introduces the structure and principle of the slot-die coater, and summarizes the research progress of SDC based perovskite solar cells and modules. Notably, the effects of physical properties such as rheological properties and evaporation rate of different solvents on the slot-die coating process and crystallization process are highlighted. Finally, challenges and opportunities in the commercialization of perovskite solar cells are also discussed.
Cystic pancreatic neoplasms: what we need to know and new perspectives
Authors: Galluzzo Antonio , Bogani Silvia , Fedeli Filippo , Danti Ginevra , Miele Vittorio
Published: August 2024

Pancreatic cystic lesions (PCLs) include a broad spectrum of entities, which greatly differ in their malignant potential and may provide a diagnostic challenge. PCLs can be categorised into: pseudocysts; common cystic neoplasms; uncommon cystic neoplasms and tumours with cystic degeneration. Large lesions are usually possible to differentiate, but small lesions’ characterisation is often not possible. This means that many pancreatic cysts remain undetermined and guidelines are needed for follow-up and management. It is important to make distinction between mucinous cystic neoplasms (MCN) and intraductal pancreatic mucinous neoplasms (IPMN), because all MCN should be resected whereas there is time for observation in specific cases of side branch IPMN. With regards to IPMN, guidelines have established features associated with increased risk of malignancy: the “worrisome” features and high-risk stigmata. It should be considered that the presence of an IPMN may portend an increased risk of invasive pancreatic cancer in a different site of the pancreas. The assessment of PCLs should provide imaging features such as cyst morphology or presence of duct communication, and clinical findings including cystic fluid analysis to improve diagnostic accuracy. Radiomics represents an emerging field of interest that could add some information in the future for the differential diagnosis and follow-up of these lesions. The aim of this study was to define a diagnostic approach to PCLs according to the latest guidelines; a review of the latest developments in radiomics regarding PCLs was also carried out.
Global Cloud Biases in Optical Satellite Remote Sensing of Rivers
Authors: Langhorst Theodore , Andreadis Konstantinos M. , Allen George H.
Published: August 2024

Satellite imagery provides a global perspective for studying river hydrology and water quality, but clouds remain a fundamental limitation of optical sensors. Explicit studies of this problem were limited to specific locations or regions. In this study, we characterize the global severity of this limitation by analyzing 22 years of daily satellite cloud cover data and modeled river discharge for a global sample 21,642 river reaches of diverse sizes and climates. Our results show that the bias in observed river discharge is highly organized in space, particularly affecting Tropical and Arctic rivers. Given the fundamental nature of this cloud limitation, optical satellites will always provide a biased representation of river conditions. We discuss several strategies to mitigate bias, including modeling, data fusion, and temporal averaging, yet these methods introduce their own challenges and uncertainties.
On the Physical Mechanisms Driving the Different Deep Penetration of Radiation Belt Electrons and Protons
Authors: Mei Yang , Li Xinlin , Zhao Hong , Xiang Zheng , Hogan Benjamin , O'Brien Declan , Sarris Theodore
Published: August 2024

During active geomagnetic periods both electrons and protons in the outer radiation belt have been frequently observed to penetrate to low L (<4). Previous studies have demonstrated systematic differences in the deep penetration of the two species of particles, most notably that the penetration of protons is observed less frequently than for electrons of the same energies. A recent study by Mei et al. (2023, https://doi.org/10.1029/2022GL101921) showed that the time‐varying convection electric field contributes to the deeper penetration of low‐energy electrons and that a radial diffusion‐convection model can be used to reproduce the storm‐time penetration of lower‐energy electrons to lower L. In this study, we analyze and provide physical explanations for the different behaviors of electrons and protons in terms of their penetration depth to low L. A radial diffusion‐convection model is applied for the two species with coefficients that are adjusted according to the mass‐dependent relativistic effects on electron and proton drift velocity, and the different loss mechanisms included for each species. Electromagnetic ion cyclotron (EMIC) wave scattering losses for 100s of keV protons during a specific event are modeled and quantified; the results suggest that EMIC waves interacting with protons of lower energies than electrons can contribute to prevent the inward transport of the protons.
Learning-based real-time imaging through dynamic scattering media
Authors: Liu Haishan , Wang Fei , Jin Ying , Ma Xianzheng , Li Siteng , Bian Yaoming , Situ Guohai
Published: August 2024

Imaging through dynamic scattering media is one of the most challenging yet fascinating problems in optics, with applications spanning from biological detection to remote sensing. In this study, we propose a comprehensive learning-based technique that facilitates real-time, non-invasive, incoherent imaging of real-world objects through dense and dynamic scattering media. We conduct extensive experiments, demonstrating the capability of our technique to see through turbid water and natural fog. The experimental results indicate that the proposed technique surpasses existing approaches in numerous aspects and holds significant potential for imaging applications across a broad spectrum of disciplines.
An integrated micromachined flexible ultrasonic-inductive sensor for pipe contaminant multiparameter detection
Authors: Yuan Zheng , Wu Xiaoyu , Li Zhikang , Yuan Jiawei , Zhao Yihe , Li Zixuan , Qin Shaohui , Ma Qi , Shi Xuan , Zhao Zilong , Li Jiazhu , Zhang Shiwang , Jing Weixuan , Wang Xiaozhang , Zhao Libo
Published: August 2024

Pipe contaminant detection holds considerable importance within various industries, such as the aviation, maritime, medicine, and other pertinent fields. This capability is beneficial for forecasting equipment potential failures, ascertaining operational situations, timely maintenance, and lifespan prediction. However, the majority of existing methods operate offline, and the detectable parameters online are relatively singular. This constraint hampers real-time on-site detection and comprehensive assessments of equipment status. To address these challenges, this paper proposes a sensing method that integrates an ultrasonic unit and an electromagnetic inductive unit for the real-time detection of diverse contaminants and flow rates within a pipeline. The ultrasonic unit comprises a flexible transducer patch fabricated through micromachining technology, which can not only make installation easier but also focus the sound field. Moreover, the sensing unit incorporates three symmetrical solenoid coils. Through a comprehensive analysis of ultrasonic and induction signals, the proposed method can be used to effectively discriminate magnetic metal particles (e.g., iron), nonmagnetic metal particles (e.g., copper), nonmetallic particles (e.g., ceramics), and bubbles. This inclusive categorization encompasses nearly all types of contaminants that may be present in a pipeline. Furthermore, the fluid velocity can be determined through the ultrasonic Doppler frequency shift. The efficacy of the proposed detection principle has been validated by mathematical models and finite element simulations. Various contaminants with diverse velocities were systematically tested within a 14 mm diameter pipe. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed sensor can effectively detect contaminants within the 0.5−3 mm range, accurately distinguish contaminant types, and measure flow velocity.
Autophagy modulation attenuates sorafenib resistance in HCC induced in rats
Authors: Elleithi Yomna , El-Gayar Amal , Amin Mohamed N.
Published: August 2024

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has risen as the villain of cancer-related death globally, with a usual cruel forecasting. Sorafenib was officially approved by the FDA as first-line treatment for advanced HCC. Despite the brilliant promise revealed in research, actual clinical results are limited due to the widespread appearance of drug resistance. The tumor microenvironment (TME) has been correlated to pharmacological resistance, implying that existing cellular level strategies may be insufficient to improve therapy success. The role of autophagy in cancer is a two-edged sword. On one hand, autophagy permits malignant cells to overcome stress, such as hypoxic TME and therapy-induced starvation. Autophagy, on the other hand, plays an important role in damage suppression, which can reduce carcinogenesis. As a result, controlling autophagy is certainly a viable technique in cancer therapy. The goal of this study was to investigate at the impact of autophagy manipulation with sorafenib therapy by analyzing autophagy induction and inhibition to sorafenib monotherapy in rats with HCC. Western blot, ELISA, immunohistochemistry, flow cytometry, and quantitative-PCR were used to investigate autophagy, apoptosis, and the cell cycle. Routine biochemical and pathological testing was performed. Ultracellular features and autophagic entities were observed using a transmission electron microscope (TEM). Both regimens demonstrated significant reductions in chemotherapeutic resistance and hepatoprotective effects. According to the findings, both autophagic inhibitors and inducers are attractive candidates for combating sorafenib-induced resistance in HCC.
Should the scope of NIPT be limited by a ‘threshold of seriousness’?
Authors: Taylor-Sands Michelle , Johnston Molly , Mills Catherine
Published: August 2024

Non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) has the potential to screen for a wider range of genetic conditions than is currently possible at an early stage of pregnancy and with minimal risks. As such, there have been calls to apply a ‘threshold of seriousness’ to limit the scope of conditions being tested. This approach is based on concerns about society at large and the potential impact on specific groups within it. In this paper, we argue that limiting the scope of NIPT using the criterion of ‘seriousness’ is arbitrary, potentially stigmatises certain disabilities over others and fails to respect reproductive autonomy. We contend that concerns about expanded NIPT are more appropriately addressed by the provision of adequate information, counselling and consent procedures. We recommend a decision-making process that helps healthcare providers support prospective parents to make informed decisions about the nature and scope of NIPT screening based on their own values and social context. In addition to addressing concerns about expanded NIPT screening, this process would help clinicians to obtain legally valid consent and discharge their duty of care (including the duty to inform) in the prenatal context.
The APOA1 p.Leu202Arg variant potentially causes autosomal recessive cardiac amyloidosis
Authors: Yagi Shusuke , Miyamoto Ryosuke , Tasaki Masayoshi , Morino Hiroyuki , Otani Ryuji , Kadota Muneyuki , Ise Takayuki , Yamazaki Hiroki , Kusunose Kenya , Yamaguchi Koji , Yamada Hirotsugu , Soeki Takeshi , Wakatsuki Tetsuzo , Fukuda Daiju , Ueda Mitsuharu , Sata Masataka
Published: August 2024

ApoA-I amyloidosis is an extremely rare form of systemic amyloidosis that commonly involves the heart, kidneys, and liver. ApoA-I amyloidosis is caused by amyloidogenic variants of APOA1 that are inherited in an autosomal dominant manner. Here, we report a 69-year-old man with sporadic cardiac amyloidosis who was born to consanguineous parents and carried a homozygous variant of p.Leu202Arg in APOA1.
Semaphorin heterodimerization in cis regulates membrane targeting and neocortical wiring
Authors: Bessa Paraskevi , Newman Andrew G. , Yan Kuo , Schaub Theres , Dannenberg Rike , Lajkó Denis , Eilenberger Julia , Brunet Theresa , Textoris-Taube Kathrin , Kemmler Emanuel , Deng Penghui , Banerjee Priyanka , Ravindran Ethiraj , Preissner Robert , Rosário Marta , Tarabykin Victor
Published: August 2024

Disruption of neocortical circuitry and architecture in humans causes numerous neurodevelopmental disorders. Neocortical cytoarchitecture is orchestrated by various transcription factors such as Satb2 that control target genes during strict time windows. In humans, mutations of SATB2 cause SATB2 Associated Syndrome (SAS), a multisymptomatic syndrome involving epilepsy, intellectual disability, speech delay, and craniofacial defects. Here we show that Satb2 controls neuronal migration and callosal axonal outgrowth during murine neocortical development by inducing the expression of the GPI-anchored protein, Semaphorin 7A (Sema7A). We find that Sema7A exerts this biological activity by heterodimerizing in cis with the transmembrane semaphorin, Sema4D. We could also observe that heterodimerization with Sema7A promotes targeting of Sema4D to the plasma membrane in vitro. Finally, we report an epilepsy-associated de novo mutation in Sema4D (Q497P) that inhibits normal glycosylation and plasma membrane localization of Sema4D-associated complexes. These results suggest that neuronal use of semaphorins during neocortical development is heteromeric, and a greater signaling complexity exists than was previously thought.
Atomic structures of a bacteriocin targeting Gram-positive bacteria
Authors: Cai Xiaoying , He Yao , Yu Iris , Imani Anthony , Scholl Dean , Miller Jeff F. , Zhou Z. Hong
Published: August 2024

Due to envelope differences between Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, engineering precision bactericidal contractile nanomachines requires atomic-level understanding of their structures; however, only those killing Gram-negative bacteria are currently known. Here, we report the atomic structures of an engineered diffocin, a contractile syringe-like molecular machine that kills the Gram-positive bacterium Clostridioides difficile. Captured in one pre-contraction and two post-contraction states, each structure fashions six proteins in the bacteria-targeting baseplate, two proteins in the energy-storing trunk, and a collar linking the sheath with the membrane-penetrating tube. Compared to contractile machines targeting Gram-negative bacteria, major differences reside in the baseplate and contraction magnitude, consistent with target envelope differences. The multifunctional hub-hydrolase protein connects the tube and baseplate and is positioned to degrade peptidoglycan during penetration. The full-length tape measure protein forms a coiled-coil helix bundle homotrimer spanning the entire diffocin. Our study offers mechanical insights and principles for designing potent protein-based precision antibiotics.
Motor innervation directs the correct development of the mouse sympathetic nervous system
Authors: Erickson Alek G. , Motta Alessia , Kastriti Maria Eleni , Edwards Steven , Coulpier Fanny , Théoulle Emy , Murtazina Aliia , Poverennaya Irina , Wies Daniel , Ganofsky Jeremy , Canu Giovanni , Lallemend Francois , Topilko Piotr , Hadjab Saida , Fried Kaj , Ruhrberg Christiana , Schwarz Quenten , Castellani Valerie , Bonanomi Dario , Adameyko Igor
Published: August 2024

The sympathetic nervous system controls bodily functions including vascular tone, cardiac rhythm, and the “fight-or-flight response”. Sympathetic chain ganglia develop in parallel with preganglionic motor nerves extending from the neural tube, raising the question of whether axon targeting contributes to sympathetic chain formation. Using nerve-selective genetic ablations and lineage tracing in mouse, we reveal that motor nerve-associated Schwann cell precursors (SCPs) contribute sympathetic neurons and satellite glia after the initial seeding of sympathetic ganglia by neural crest. Motor nerve ablation causes mispositioning of SCP-derived sympathoblasts as well as sympathetic chain hypoplasia and fragmentation. Sympathetic neurons in motor-ablated embryos project precociously and abnormally towards dorsal root ganglia, eventually resulting in fusion of sympathetic and sensory ganglia. Cell interaction analysis identifies semaphorins as potential motor nerve-derived signaling molecules regulating sympathoblast positioning and outgrowth. Overall, central innervation functions both as infrastructure and regulatory niche to ensure the integrity of peripheral ganglia morphogenesis.