bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cisan and Malahang: Indigenous Older Adults’ Voices on Active Aging – Findings from a Qualitative Study in Taiwan
Authors: Silan Wasiq , Munkejord Mai Camilla
Published: July 2023

The Taiwan Government follows the policy of active aging to prevent frailty. However, the current services lack cultural safety toward the Indigenous peoples and would benefit from a broader perspective on what active aging may entail. In this research, we study local perceptions of active aging among older Indigenous Tayal taking part in a local day club. The study identifies two formal activities that foster active aging: (a) information meetings about health and illness and (b) physical activities. In addition, two informal activities highlighted by the participants themselves were identified as necessary for promoting healthy and active aging: Cisan and Malahang. While Cisan means “social care,” Malahang means “interrelational care practices.” In conclusion, we argue for the relevance of listening to Indigenous older adults’ voices to develop long-term care services adapted to their cultural values, linguistic competence, and cosmology.
Education and Economic Growth: Evidence from the EUROMED Countries
Authors: Topcu Ebru
Published: July 2023

The Mediterranean Strategy on Education for Sustainable Development (MSESD) Report reveals that the Mediterranean is an exceptional eco-region not only due to its geographical characteristics, but also its heterogeneous economic structure, in which education is regarded as a key driver of sustainable development. Given this importance, this study attempts to investigate the impact of education as a channel for human capital accumulation on two different growth concepts in a panel group of eight Euro-Mediterranean Partnership (EUROMED) countries. We utilize an endogenous growth model using annual observations spanning from 2000 to 2017 by employing the Augmented Mean Group (AMG) estimator. Empirical results obtained from the Augmented Mean Group estimator indicate a positive impact of education, regardless of the growth proxy. In addition, empirical findings reveal that the impact of education on inclusive growth is five times higher than that on output growth. We also find that capital is the main driver of growth while inclusive growth is primarily triggered by education. One of the main policy implications raised in this study is that education reforms that attempt to improve educational quality will assist policymakers to achieve sustainable development goals. Extensive policy discussions related to the experiential findings are also provided.
The Cycle of Medieval Cathedrals – Explaining the Construction of Iberian Cathedrals through Economic Development
Authors: Reis Mourao Paulo
Published: July 2023

Iberian cathedrals are some of the most impressive religious buildings in Europe. Mostly erected between the twelfth and fifteenth centuries, they are also the outcome of regional phases of growth and development. This article discusses this period favourable to the building of religious structures in the Iberian Peninsula, considering local dynamism, the religiosity of adherents and stimuli from the economic development of the surrounding areas. Using models of spatial autocorrelation, we observed different results for the Portuguese dioceses and for the Spanish ones. Spanish dioceses, in particular, exerted competitive effects on surrounding dioceses, making the erection of new cathedrals close to a diocese with an old or a valued cathedral less probable. It was also observed that the dynamism of cathedral construction in a given diocese tended to be replicated in the closest dioceses between the twelfth and fifteenth centuries.
Does flexibility promote the implementation of civil war cease-fire agreements?
Authors: Park Sunhee
Published: July 2023

Transition from war to peace often leads to new challenges. Conflict scholars suggest that these challenges lead groups to be unable to commit credibly and suggest mechanisms for decreasing the fear of being the victim, and increasing the costs, of reneging. However, international law and international political economy scholars debate the utility of making agreements flexible. This paper argues that provisions intended to increase the flexibility of agreements are detrimental to implementation because they operate under the assumption that groups are in a repeated game, and because they can lead to an even more severe commitment problem. Using a newly collected dataset on civil war cease-fire agreements, duration analyses suggest agreements with more flexibility-enhancing provisions exhibit a higher likelihood of violations. Although provisions calling for third-party enforcement – a mechanism for reducing fear and increasing costs – seem to decrease the likelihood of violations, this effect disappears when flexibility-enhancing provisions are considered.
Community perspectives on structural barriers to dying well at home in Canada
Authors: Chan Wing-Sun , Funk Laura , Krawczyk Marian , Cohen S. Robin , Cherba Maria , Dujela Carren , Stajduhar Kelli
Published: July 2023

Objectives

To analyze how structural determinants and barriers within social systems shape options for dying well at home in Canada, while also shaping preferences for dying at home.

Methods

To inform a descriptive thematic analysis, 24 Canadian stakeholders were interviewed about their views, experiences, and preferences about dying at home. Participants included compassionate community advocates, palliative care professionals, volunteers, bereaved family caregivers, residents of rural and remote regions, service providers working with structurally vulnerable populations, and members of francophone, immigrant, and 2SLGBTQ+ communities.

Results

Analysis of stakeholders’ insights and experiences led to the conceptualization of several structural barriers to dying well at home: inaccessible public and community infrastructure and services, a structural gap in death literacy, social stigma and discrimination, and limited access to relational social capital.

Significance of results

Aging in Canada, as elsewhere across the globe, has increased demand for palliative care and support, especially in the home. Support for people wishing to die at home is a key public health issue. However, while Canadian policy documents normalize dying in place as ideal, it is uncertain whether these fit with the real possibilities for people nearing the end of life. Our analysis extends existing research on health equity in palliative and end-of-life care beyond a focus on service provision. Results of this analysis identify the need to expand policymakers’ structural imaginations about what it means to die well at home in Canada.
Testa and hilum colour associations with seed traits of a Greek field pea landrace
Authors: Konstantopoulos Apostolos N. , Pozoukidou Sofia , Irakli Maria , Tsialtas Ioannis T.
Published: July 2023

Pea landraces may hold genetic variation that can be exploitable in breeding/selecting new cultivars. In a small-seeded pea landrace, four phenotypes were distinguished according to testa (green, non-spotted and green, spotted) and hilum colour (white, black). The four phenotypes were tested for two growing seasons in the field for pod (seeds/pod) and seed traits (1000-seed weight, toughness, total phenols and tannins, testa colour, protein and carbon concentration, C/N ratio, bruchid infection). Significant differences were found for testa colour parameters, phenolic, tannin and carbon concentration and bruchid tolerance. The larger-seeded, spotted peas had darker testa and more phenols, while white-hilumed peas had lighter testa and more tannins. The spotted, black-hilumed phenotype, with the highest carbon concentration and C/N ratio was the most tolerant to bruchids. However, grouping the phenotypes, neither spotted nor black-hilumed ones showed to be more tolerant compared with their counterparts. Concluding, our results showed that phenotyping variation in seeds of a pea landrace revealed variation in seed traits, which could be exploitable. Since testa and hilum colour were associated with specific seed traits, they could, alone or in combination, be used as biomarkers of seed quality traits in pea. Testing of larger number of phenotypes is needed to solidify our findings.
Mixed Archaeal Production and Nitrifier Denitrification Dominate N2O Production in the East China Sea: Insights From Isotopocule and Hydroxylamine Analyses
Authors: Gu Xue‐Ji , Wang Lan , Casciotti Karen L. , Xin Yu , Liu Su‐Mei , Zhang Gui‐Ling
Published: July 2023

Oceans are identified as potent sources of atmospheric nitrous oxide (N2O), while the magnitude of its flux and microbial production mechanisms remain uncertain in highly perturbed coastal zones. Here, the first analyses of N2O isotopocule signatures in the East China Sea (ECS) are presented, along with hydroxylamine (NH2OH) and N2O concentrations, to clarify the dominant N2O production processes in coastal water. In the ECS in October 2015, N2O ranged from 6.3 to 33.1 nmol L−1, equivalent to 99%–251% saturation, leading to air‐sea fluxes of 1.6–10.5 μmol m−2 d−1 (4.8 ± 2.5 μmol m−2 d−1) using the W2014 formula. The coexistence of high levels of NH4+, NH2OH, and NO2− indicated the potential for nitrification and/or hybrid N2O formation. In the shallow water (<300 m), the concentration (∼9.3 nmol L−1), δ15Nbulk–N2O (∼6.8‰), δ18O–N2O (∼45.1‰), and 15N site preference (SP, ∼14.8‰) of N2O were close to the isotopic signatures in atmospheric N2O, whereas values in the deep water increased with depth, with N2O reaching maxima of 33.1 nmol L−1, 8.6‰, 54.7‰, and 18.7‰, respectively. From the dual N2O isotopocule mapping approach, almost equal contributions of archaeal N2O production (archaeal nitrification and/or hybrid mechanism, ∼47%) and nitrifier denitrification (or denitrification) (∼53%) to total in situ N2O production were identified for the shallow water, but archaeal nitrification was responsible for ∼83% of the deeper N2O production. Moreover, the far‐field lateral advection from other areas served as a potential physical supply of deeper N2O. Our findings enhance the understanding of N2O dynamics in coastal waters.
Potential of Snowfall Nowcasting Using Polarimetric Radar Data and Its Link to Ice Microphysics: Study of Two Snowstorms in East China
Authors: Huang Hao , Tao Ranting , Zhao Kun , Wen Long , Chu Zhigang
Published: July 2023

The microphysical characteristics, including the ice types and growth mechanisms, in two snowstorms over East China in 2016 (E16) and 2018 (E18) were explored using joint observations of a polarimetric radar and a disdrometer. In both events, the dendritic‐growth‐layer (DGL) signature (enhancements in differential reflectivity ZDR and specific differential phase KDP) was observed, indicative of the existence of horizontally‐oriented dendrites and plate‐like crystals. The KDP in the DGL, related to the total mass of ice particles, was used for snowfall nowcasting. According to the lagged correlation analysis, the reflectivity factor (ZH) near the ground, a proxy for snowfall intensity, could be well predicted by the KDP in the DGL with a 40‐min lead time and a correlation coefficient over 0.7 in E16. In contrast, E18 had a worse nowcasting performance, with the maximum correlation coefficient being ∼0.53, which could be attributed to its more complex ice microphysical structures and processes. The snow in E16 mainly grew from the deposition in the DGL (mainly dendrites and plates) and aggregation below. In comparison, the snowstorm was deeper in E18, and the less oblate crystals (with larger aspect ratios) from above the DGL could grow and mix with the dendrites and plates in the DGL, weakening the correlation between the KDP and ice mass. Below the DGL, snow growth in E18 was contributed by aggregation and more active riming according to both radar and disdrometer observations, which further lowered the nowcasting performance of snowfall by the KDP in the DGL.
Atmospheric Sea Spray Modeling in the North‐East Atlantic Ocean Using Tunnel‐Derived Generation Functions and the SUMOS Cruise Data Set
Authors: Bruch W. , Yohia C. , Tulet P. , Limoges A. , Sutherland P. , van Eijk A. M. J. , Missamou T. , Piazzola J.
Published: July 2023

This study contributes to the communal effort to improve understanding of sea spray generation and transport. For the first time, laboratory‐derived sea spray generation functions (SSGFs) are parameterized in the Meso‐NH mesoscale atmospheric model and are field tested. Formulated from the MATE19 laboratory experiments (Bruch et al., 2021, https://doi.org/10.1007/s10546-021-00636-y) the two SSGFs are driven by the upwind component of the wave‐slope variance (herein B21A), or both and the wind friction velocity cubed (herein B21B). In this first attempt to incorporate the SSGFs in Meso‐NH, the simulations are run without a wave model, and the wave‐wind SSGFs are assumed wind‐dependent. Model evaluation is achieved with a new set of sea spray and meteorological measurements acquired over the 0.1–22.75 μm radius range and U10 1–20 m s−1 wind speeds onboard R/V Atalante during the 25 day SUMOS field campaign in the Bay of Biscay. The B21B SSGF offers particularly good sensitivity to a wide range of environmental conditions over the size range, with an average overestimation by a factor 1.5 compared with measurements, well below the deviations reported elsewhere. B21A also performs well for larger droplets at wind speeds above 15 m s−1. Associated with airflow separation and wave breaking, wave‐slope variance allows to represent multiple wave scales and to scale sea spray generation in the laboratory and the field. Using Meso‐NH simulations we find that sea spray may be transported inland and to altitudes well above the marine atmospheric boundary layer.
Study of Extreme Magnetopause Distortions Under Varying Solar Wind Conditions
Authors: Grimmich Niklas , Plaschke Ferdinand , Archer Martin O. , Heyner Daniel , Mieth Johannes Z. D. , Nakamura Rumi , Sibeck David G.
Published: July 2023

To first order, the magnetopause (MP) is defined by a pressure balance between the solar wind and the magnetosphere. The boundary moves under the influence of varying solar wind conditions and transient foreshock phenomena, reaching unusually large and small distances from the Earth. We investigate under which solar wind conditions such extreme MP distortions occur. Therefore, we construct a database of magnetopause crossings (MPCs) observed by the THEMIS spacecraft in the years 2007 to mid‐2022 using a simple Random Forest Classifier. Roughly 7% of the found crossing events deviate beyond reported errors in the stand‐off distance from the Shue et al. (1998, https://doi.org/10.1029/98JA01103) MP model and thus are termed extreme distortions. We find the occurrence of these extreme events in terms of expansion or compression of the MP to be linked to different solar wind parameters, most notably to the IMF magnitude, cone angle, velocity, Alfvén Mach number and temperature. Foreshock transients like hot‐flow anomalies and foreshock bubbles could be responsible for extreme magnetospheric expansions. The results should be incorporated into future magnetopause models and may be helpful for the reconstruction of the MP locations out of soft x‐ray images, relevant for the upcoming SMILE mission.
Dosing interval regimen shapes potency and breadth of antibody repertoire after vaccination of SARS-CoV-2 RBD protein subunit vaccine
Authors: Guo Shuxin , Zheng Yuxuan , Gao Zhengrong , Duan Minrun , Liu Sheng , Du Pan , Xu XiaoYu , Xu Kun , Zhao Xin , Chai Yan , Wang Peiyi , Zhao Qi , Gao George F. , Dai Lianpan
Published: July 2023

Vaccination with different vaccines has been implemented globally to counter the continuous COVID-19 pandemic. However, the vaccine-elicited antibodies have reduced efficiency against the highly mutated Omicron sub-variants. Previously, we developed a protein subunit COVID-19 vaccine called ZF2001, based on the dimeric receptor-binding domain (RBD). This vaccine has been administered using different dosing intervals in real-world setting. Some individuals received three doses of ZF2001, with a one-month interval between each dose, due to urgent clinical requirements. Others had an extended dosing interval of up to five months between the second and third dose, a standard vaccination regimen for the protein subunit vaccine against hepatitis B. In this study, we profile B cell responses in individuals who received three doses of ZF2001, and compared those with long or short dosing intervals. We observed that the long-interval group exhibited higher and broader serologic antibody responses. These responses were associated with the increased size and evolution of vaccine-elicited B-cell receptor repertoires, characterized by the elevation of expanded clonotypes and somatic hypermutations. Both groups of individuals generated substantial amounts of broadly neutralizing antibodies (bnAbs) against various SARS-CoV-2 variants, including Omicron sub-variants such as XBB. These bnAbs target four antigenic sites within the RBD. To determine the vulnerable site of SARS-CoV-2, we employed cryo-electron microscopy to identify the epitopes of highly potent bnAbs that targeted two major sites. Our findings provide immunological insights into the B cell responses elicited by RBD-based vaccine, and suggest that a vaccination regimen of prolonging time interval should be used in practice.
Clinical trio genome sequencing facilitates the interpretation of variants in cancer predisposition genes in paediatric tumour patients
Authors: Schroeder Christopher , Faust Ulrike , Krauße Luisa , Liebmann Alexandra , Abele Michael , Demidov German , Schütz Leon , Kelemen Olga , Pohle Alexandra , Gauß Silja , Sturm Marc , Roggia Cristiana , Streiter Monika , Buchert Rebecca , Armenau-Ebinger Sorin , Nann Dominik , Beschorner Rudi , Handgretinger Rupert , Ebinger Martin , Lang Peter , Holzer Ursula , Skokowa Julia , Ossowski Stephan , Haack Tobias B. , Mau-Holzmann Ulrike A. , Dufke Andreas , Riess Olaf , Brecht Ines B.
Published: July 2023

The prevalence of pathogenic and likely pathogenic (P/LP) variants in genes associated with cancer predisposition syndromes (CPS) is estimated to be 8-18% for paediatric cancer patients. In more than half of the carriers, the family history is unsuspicious for CPS. Therefore, broad genetic testing could identify germline predisposition in additional children with cancer resulting in important implications for themselves and their families. We thus evaluated clinical trio genome sequencing (TGS) in a cohort of 72 paediatric patients with solid cancers other than retinoblastoma or CNS-tumours. The most prevalent cancer types were sarcoma (n = 26), neuroblastoma (n = 15), and nephroblastoma (n = 10). Overall, P/LP variants in CPS genes were identified in 18.1% of patients (13/72) and P/LP variants in autosomal-dominant CPS genes in 9.7% (7/72). Genetic evaluation would have been recommended for the majority of patients with P/LP variants according to the Jongmans criteria. Four patients (5.6%, 4/72) carried P/LP variants in autosomal-dominant genes known to be associated with their tumour type. With the immediate information on variant inheritance, TGS facilitated the identification of a de novo P/LP in NF1, a gonadosomatic mosaic in WT1 and two pathogenic variants in one patient (DICER1 and PALB2). TGS allows a more detailed characterization of structural variants with base-pair resolution of breakpoints which can be relevant for the interpretation of copy number variants. Altogether, TGS allows comprehensive identification of children with a CPS and supports the individualised clinical management of index patients and high-risk relatives.
Structural and functional fine mapping of cysteines in mammalian glutaredoxin reveal their differential oxidation susceptibility
Authors: Corteselli Elizabeth M. , Sharafi Mona , Hondal Robert , MacPherson Maximilian , White Sheryl , Lam Ying-Wai , Gold Clarissa , Manuel Allison M. , van der Vliet Albert , Schneebeli Severin T. , Anathy Vikas , Li Jianing , Janssen-Heininger Yvonne M. W.
Published: July 2023

Protein-S-glutathionylation is a post-translational modification involving the conjugation of glutathione to protein thiols, which can modulate the activity and structure of key cellular proteins. Glutaredoxins (GLRX) are oxidoreductases that regulate this process by performing deglutathionylation. However, GLRX has five cysteines that are potentially vulnerable to oxidative modification, which is associated with GLRX aggregation and loss of activity. To date, GLRX cysteines that are oxidatively modified and their relative susceptibilities remain unknown. We utilized molecular modeling approaches, activity assays using recombinant GLRX, coupled with site-directed mutagenesis of each cysteine both individually and in combination to address the oxidizibility of GLRX cysteines. These approaches reveal that C8 and C83 are targets for S-glutathionylation and oxidation by hydrogen peroxide in vitro. In silico modeling and experimental validation confirm a prominent role of C8 for dimer formation and aggregation. Lastly, combinatorial mutation of C8, C26, and C83 results in increased activity of GLRX and resistance to oxidative inactivation and aggregation. Results from these integrated computational and experimental studies provide insights into the relative oxidizability of GLRX’s cysteines and have implications for the use of GLRX as a therapeutic in settings of dysregulated protein glutathionylation.
Macrocyclization of linear molecules by deep learning to facilitate macrocyclic drug candidates discovery
Authors: Diao Yanyan , Liu Dandan , Ge Huan , Zhang Rongrong , Jiang Kexin , Bao Runhui , Zhu Xiaoqian , Bi Hongjie , Liao Wenjie , Chen Ziqi , Zhang Kai , Wang Rui , Zhu Lili , Zhao Zhenjiang , Hu Qiaoyu , Li Honglin
Published: July 2023

Interest in macrocycles as potential therapeutic agents has increased rapidly. Macrocyclization of bioactive acyclic molecules provides a potential avenue to yield novel chemical scaffolds, which can contribute to the improvement of the biological activity and physicochemical properties of these molecules. In this study, we propose a computational macrocyclization method based on Transformer architecture (which we name Macformer). Leveraging deep learning, Macformer explores the vast chemical space of macrocyclic analogues of a given acyclic molecule by adding diverse linkers compatible with the acyclic molecule. Macformer can efficiently learn the implicit relationships between acyclic and macrocyclic structures represented as SMILES strings and generate plenty of macrocycles with chemical diversity and structural novelty. In data augmentation scenarios using both internal ChEMBL and external ZINC test datasets, Macformer display excellent performance and generalisability. We showcase the utility of Macformer when combined with molecular docking simulations and wet lab based experimental validation, by applying it to the prospective design of macrocyclic JAK2 inhibitors.
Stiefel-Whitney topological charges in a three-dimensional acoustic nodal-line crystal
Authors: Xue Haoran , Chen Z. Y. , Cheng Zheyu , Dai J. X. , Long Yang , Zhao Y. X. , Zhang Baile
Published: July 2023

Band topology of materials describes the extent Bloch wavefunctions are twisted in momentum space. Such descriptions rely on a set of topological invariants, generally referred to as topological charges, which form a characteristic class in the mathematical structure of fiber bundles associated with the Bloch wavefunctions. For example, the celebrated Chern number and its variants belong to the Chern class, characterizing topological charges for complex Bloch wavefunctions. Nevertheless, under the space-time inversion symmetry, Bloch wavefunctions can be purely real in the entire momentum space; consequently, their topological classification does not fall into the Chern class, but requires another characteristic class known as the Stiefel-Whitney class. Here, in a three-dimensional acoustic crystal, we demonstrate a topological nodal-line semimetal that is characterized by a doublet of topological charges, the first and second Stiefel-Whitney numbers, simultaneously. Such a doubly charged nodal line gives rise to a doubled bulk-boundary correspondence—while the first Stiefel-Whitney number induces ordinary drumhead states of the nodal line, the second Stiefel-Whitney number supports hinge Fermi arc states at odd inversion-related pairs of hinges. These results experimentally validate the two Stiefel-Whitney topological charges and demonstrate their unique bulk-boundary correspondence in a physical system.
Identification of biological components for sialolith formation organized in circular multi-layers
Authors: Sodnom-Ish Buyanbileg , Eo Mi Young , Cho Yun Ju , Seo Mi Hyun , Yang Hyeong-Cheol , Kim Min-Keun , Myoung Hoon , Lee Suk Keun , Kim Soung Min
Published: July 2023

According to the previous studies of sialolithiasis reported so far, this study is aimed to identify the biological components of sialolith, which show different ultrastructures and chemical compositions from other stones, cholelith and urolith. Twenty-two specimens obtained from 20 patients were examined histologically, and analyzed with micro-CT, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). All sialoliths (n = 22) observed in this study showed a central nidus, which was filled with organoid matrix admixed with exosome vesicles, loose calcium apatite crystals, and many bacteria. The micro-CT and SEM observation clearly defined a single or multiple central nidus(es) encircled by highly calcified compact zone. The circular compact zone showed a band-like calcification, about 1–3 mm in thickness, and usually located between the central nidus and the peripheral multilayer zone. But some sialoliths (n = 5) showed severe erosion of compact zone by expanding multilayered zone depending on the level of calcification and inflammation in sialolith. By observing TEM images, many exosome vesicles and degraded cytoplasmic organelles were found in the central nidus, and some epithelial cells were also found in the calcified matrix of peripheral multilayer zone. Particularly, EDS analysis indicated the highest Ca/P ratio in the intermediate compact zone (1.77), and followed by the central nidus area (1.39) and the peripheral multilayer zone (0.87). Taken together, these data suggest that the central nidus containing many inflammatory exosomes and degraded cytoplasmic organelles has a potential to induce a band-like calcification of compact zone, and followed by the additional multilayer deposition of exfoliated salivary epithelial cells as well as salivary materials. Thereby, the calcium apatite-based sialolith is gradually growing in its volume size, and eventually obstructs the salivary flow and provides a site for the bacterial infection.
Volumetric capnography and return of spontaneous circulation in an experimental model of pediatric asphyxial cardiac arrest
Authors: de la Mata Navazo Sara , Manrique Gema , Fernández Sarah Nicole , Pérez Gema , Butragueño‑Laiseca Laura , García Miriam , Slöcker María , González Rafael , Herrera Laura , Mencía Santiago , del Castillo Jimena , Solana María José , Sanz Débora , Cieza Raquel , López Jorge , Rodríguez Martínez Alicia , Santiago María José , Urbano Javier , López‑Herce Jesús
Published: July 2023

A secondary analysis of a randomized study was performed to study the relationship between volumetric capnography (VCAP) and arterial CO2 partial pressure (PCO2) during cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and to analyze the ability of these parameters to predict the return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) in a pediatric animal model of asphyxial cardiac arrest (CA). Asphyxial CA was induced by sedation, muscle relaxation and extubation. CPR was started 2 min after CA occurred. Airway management was performed with early endotracheal intubation or bag-mask ventilation, according to randomization group. CPR was continued until ROSC or 24 min of resuscitation. End-tidal carbon
dioxide (EtCO2), CO2 production (VCO2), and EtCO2/VCO2/kg ratio were continuously recorded.
Seventy-nine piglets were included, 26 (32.9%) of whom achieved ROSC. EtCO2 was the best predictor of ROSC (AUC 0.72, p < 0.01 and optimal cutoff point of 21.6 mmHg). No statistical differences were obtained regarding VCO2, VCO2/kg and EtCO2/VCO2/kg ratios. VCO2 and VCO2/kg showed an inverse correlation with PCO2, with a higher correlation coefficient as resuscitation progressed. EtCO2 also had an inverse correlation with PCO2 from minute 18 to 24 of resuscitation. Our findings suggest that EtCO2 is the best VCAP-derived parameter for predicting ROSC. EtCO2 and VCO2 showed an inverse correlation with PCO2. Therefore, these parameters are not adequate to measure ventilation during CPR.
Binomial-discrete Erlang-truncated exponential mixture and its application in cancer disease
Authors: El-Alosey Alaa R. , Eledum Hussein
Published: July 2023

Among diseases, cancer exhibits the fastest global spread, presenting a substantial challenge for patients, their families, and the communities they belong to. This paper is devoted to modeling such a disease as a special case. A newly proposed distribution called the binomial-discrete Erlang-truncated exponential (BDETE) is introduced. The BDETE is a mixture of binomial distribution with the number of trials (parameter $$n$$
n
) taken after a discrete Erlang-truncated exponential distribution. A comprehensive mathematical treatment of the proposed distribution and expressions of its density, cumulative distribution function, survival function, failure rate function, Quantile function, moment generating function, Shannon entropy, order statistics, and stress-strength reliability, are provided. The distribution's parameters are estimated using the maximum likelihood method. Two real-world lifetime count data sets from the cancer disease, both of which are right-skewed and over-dispersed, are fitted using the proposed BDETE distribution to evaluate its efficacy and viability. We expect the findings to become standard works in probability theory and its related fields.
Homology judgements of pre-evolutionary naturalists explained by general human shape matching abilities
Authors: Stegmann Ulrich E. , Schmidt Filipp
Published: July 2023

Many biological homologies were discovered before Darwin and without agreed criteria. Paradigmatic examples include the phylogenetic homology of mammalian forelimb bones and the serial homology of floral organs in waterlilies. It is generally assumed that perceiving similarities intuitively was the first step towards establishing morphological homologies. However, this assumption has never been tested. We hypothesize that pre-evolutionary naturalists relied on the well-established ability of humans to find visual correspondences between differently shaped objects. By using images of homologous organs and applying an experimental paradigm from cognitive psychology, we found that (1) na﻿ïve participants utilised this ability when identifying “corresponding” locations. In addition, (2) these locations were statistically indistinguishable from the locations that pre-evolutionary naturalists and contemporary experts considered homologous. Furthermore, (3) presenting na﻿ïve participants with images of intermediate organs influenced their correspondence judgements. This influence was in line with historical reports according to which intermediate organs facilitated the pre-evolutionary recognition of homologies.
PermaNet Dual, a new deltamethrin-chlorfenapyr mixture net, shows improved efficacy against pyrethroid-resistant Anopheles gambiae sensu lato in southern Benin
Authors: Syme Thomas , N’dombidjé Boris , Gbegbo Martial , Todjinou Damien , Ariori Victoria , De Vos Patricia , Pigeon Olivier , Ngufor Corine
Published: July 2023

Pyrethroid-chlorfenapyr nets have demonstrated improved entomological and epidemiological impact in trials across Africa. This is driving increased demand for this novel net class in malaria-endemic countries. PermaNet Dual is a new deltamethrin-chlorfenapyr net developed by Vestergaard Sàrl to provide more options to malaria control programmes. We performed an experimental hut trial to evaluate the efficacy of PermaNet Dual against wild, free-flying pyrethroid-resistant Anopheles gambiae sensu lato in Covè, Benin. PermaNet Dual induced superior levels of mosquito mortality compared to a pyrethroid-only net and a pyrethroid-piperonyl butoxide net both when unwashed (77% with PermaNet Dual vs. 23% with PermaNet 2.0 and 56% with PermaNet 3.0, p < 0.001) and after 20 standardised washes (75% with PermaNet Dual vs. 14% with PermaNet 2.0 and 30% with PermaNet 3.0, p < 0.001). Using a provisional non-inferiority margin defined by the World Health Organisation, PermaNet Dual was also non-inferior to a pyrethroid-chlorfenapyr net that has demonstrated improved public health value (Interceptor G2), for vector mortality (79% vs. 76%, OR = 0.878, 95% CIs 0.719–1.073) but not for blood-feeding protection (35% vs. 26%, OR = 1.424, 95% CIs 1.177–1.723). PermaNet Dual presents an additional option of this highly effective net class for improved control of malaria transmitted by pyrethroid-resistant mosquitoes.
Investigations towards incorporation of Eu3+ and Cm3+ during ZrO2 crystallization in aqueous solution
Authors: Opitz Lucas , Hübner René , Shams Aldin Azzam Salim , Gilson Sara E. , Finkeldei Sarah C. , Huittinen Nina
Published: July 2023

Nuclear energy provides a widely applied carbon-reduced energy source. Following operation, the spent nuclear fuel (SNF), containing a mixture of radiotoxic elements such as transuranics, needs to be safely disposed of. Safe storage of SNF in a deep geological repository (DGR) relies on multiple engineered and natural retention barriers to prevent environmental contamination. In this context, zirconia (ZrO2) formed on the SNF rod cladding, could be employed as an engineered barrier for immobilization of radionuclides via structural incorporation. This study investigates the incorporation of Eu3+ and Cm3+, representatives for trivalent transuranics, into zirconia by co-precipitation and crystallization in aqueous solution at 80 °C. Complementary structural and microstructural characterization has been carried out by powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD), spectrum imaging analysis based on energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy in scanning transmission electron microscopy mode (STEM-EDXS), and luminescence spectroscopy. The results reveal the association of the dopants with the zirconia particles and elucidate the presence of distinct bulk and superficially incorporated species. Hydrothermal aging for up to 460 days in alkaline media points to great stability of these incorporated species after initial crystallization, with no indication of phase segregation or release of Eu3+ and Cm3+ over time. These results suggest that zirconia would be a suitable technical retention barrier for mobilized trivalent actinides in a DGR.
Simulations of magnetization reversal in FM/AFM bilayers with THz frequency pulses
Authors: Hirst Joel , Ruta Sergiu , Jackson Jerome , Ostler Thomas
Published: July 2023

It is widely known that antiferromagnets (AFMs) display a high frequency response in the terahertz (THz) range, which opens up the possibility for ultrafast control of their magnetization for next generation data storage and processing applications. However, because the magnetization of the different sublattices cancel, their state is notoriously difficult to read. One way to overcome this is to couple AFMs to ferromagnets—whose state is trivially read via magneto-resistance sensors. Here we present conditions, using theoretical modelling, that it is possible to switch the magnetization of an AFM/FM bilayer using THz frequency pulses with moderate field amplitude and short durations, achievable in experiments. Consistent switching is observed in the phase diagrams for an order of magnitude increase in the interface coupling and a tripling in the thickness of the FM layer. We demonstrate a range of reversal paths that arise due to the combination of precession in the materials and the THz-induced fields. Our analysis demonstrates that the AFM drives the switching and results in a much higher frequency dynamics in the FM due to the exchange coupling at the interface. The switching is shown to be robust over a broad range of temperatures relevant for device applications.
Adjuvant effects of combination monophosphoryl lipid A and poly I:C on antigen-specific immune responses and protective efficacy of influenza vaccines
Authors: Le Chau Thuy Tien , Ahn So Yeon , Ho Thi Len , Lee Jueun , Lee Dong-Ha , Hwang Hye Suk , Kang Sang-Moo , Ko Eun-Ju
Published: July 2023

Toll-like receptor (TLR) agonists improve vaccine immunogenicity and efficacy, but they are currently unlicensed as adjuvants in influenza vaccines. This study aimed to investigate whether a combination of monophosphoryl lipid A (MPL, a TLR4 agonist) and polyriboinosinic polyribocytidylic acid (poly I:C, a TLR3 agonist) can enhance the protective efficacy of an inactivated A/Puerto Rico/8/1934 (A/PR8) H1N1 influenza vaccine against homologous influenza infection and minimize illness outcomes. Results showed that combination MPL and poly I:C adjuvanted influenza vaccination increased the production of antigen-specific antibodies, decreased the levels of cytokines and cellular infiltrates at the infection sites, and induced significant memory T and B cell responses in mice. The results of this study suggest that the combination of MPL and poly I:C can be developed into a possible adjuvant for enhancing the efficacy of influenza vaccines.
Mid-lumbar (L3) epidural stimulation effects on bladder and external urethral sphincter in non-injured and chronically transected urethane-anesthetized rats
Authors: Medina-Aguiñaga Daniel , Hoey Robert F. , Wilkins Natasha L. , Ugiliweneza Beatrice , Fell Jason , Harkema Susan J. , Hubscher Charles H.
Published: July 2023

Recent pre-clinical and clinical spinal cord epidural stimulation (scES) experiments specifically targeting the thoracolumbar and lumbosacral circuitries mediating lower urinary tract (LUT) function have shown improvements in storage, detrusor pressure, and emptying. With the existence of a lumbar spinal coordinating center in rats that is involved with external urethral sphincter (EUS) functionality during micturition, the mid-lumbar spinal cord (specifically L3) was targeted in the current study with scES to determine if the EUS and thus the void pattern could be modulated, using both intact and chronic complete spinal cord injured female rats under urethane anesthesia. L3 scES at select frequencies and intensities of stimulation produced a reduction in void volumes and EUS burst duration in intact rats. After chronic transection, three different subgroups of LUT dysfunction were identified and the response to L3 scES promoted different cystometry outcomes, including changes in EUS bursting. The current findings suggest that scES at the L3 level can generate functional neuromodulation of both the urinary bladder and the EUS in intact and SCI rats to enhance voiding in a variety of clinical scenarios.
Exploring ND-011992, a quinazoline-type inhibitor targeting quinone reductases and quinol oxidases
Authors: Kägi Jan , Sloan Willough , Schimpf Johannes , Nasiri Hamid R. , Lashley Dana , Friedrich Thorsten
Published: July 2023

Bacterial energy metabolism has become a promising target for next-generation tuberculosis chemotherapy. One strategy to hamper ATP production is to inhibit the respiratory oxidases. The respiratory chain of Mycobacterium tuberculosis comprises a cytochrome bcc:aa3 and a cytochrome bd ubiquinol oxidase that require a combined approach to block their activity. A quinazoline-type compound called ND-011992 has previously been reported to ineffectively inhibit bd oxidases, but to act bactericidal in combination with inhibitors of cytochrome bcc:aa3 oxidase. Due to the structural similarity of ND-011992 to quinazoline-type inhibitors of respiratory complex I, we suspected that this compound is also capable of blocking other respiratory chain complexes. Here, we synthesized ND-011992 and a bromine derivative to study their effect on the respiratory chain complexes of Escherichia coli. And indeed, ND-011992 was found to inhibit respiratory complex I and bo3 oxidase in addition to bd-I and bd-II oxidases. The IC50 values are all in the low micromolar range, with inhibition of complex I providing the lowest value with an IC50 of 0.12 µM. Thus, ND-011992 acts on both, quinone reductases and quinol oxidases and could be very well suited to regulate the activity of the entire respiratory chain.
Anthropomorphism-based causal and responsibility attributions to robots
Authors: Kawai Yuji , Miyake Tomohito , Park Jihoon , Shimaya Jiro , Takahashi Hideyuki , Asada Minoru
Published: July 2023

People tend to expect mental capabilities in a robot based on anthropomorphism and often attribute the cause and responsibility for a failure in human-robot interactions to the robot. This study investigated the relationship between mind perception, a psychological scale of anthropomorphism, and attribution of the cause and responsibility in human-robot interactions. Participants played a repeated noncooperative game with a human, robot, or computer agent, where their monetary rewards depended on the outcome. They completed questionnaires on mind perception regarding the agent and whether the participant’s own or the agent’s decisions resulted in the unexpectedly small reward. We extracted two factors of Experience (capacity to sense and feel) and Agency (capacity to plan and act) from the mind perception scores. Then, correlation and structural equation modeling (SEM) approaches were used to analyze the data. The findings showed that mind perception influenced attribution processes differently for each agent type. In the human condition, decreased Agency score during the game led to greater causal attribution to the human agent, consequently also increasing the degree of responsibility attribution to the human agent. In the robot condition, the post-game Agency score decreased the degree of causal attribution to the robot, and the post-game Experience score increased the degree of responsibility to the robot. These relationships were not observed in the computer condition. The study highlights the importance of considering mind perception in designing appropriate causal and responsibility attribution in human-robot interactions and developing socially acceptable robots.
Loss of Krüppel-like factor 9 deregulates both physiological gene expression and development
Authors: Drepanos Laura , Gans Ian M. , Grendler Janelle , Guitar Sophia , Fuqua J. Heath , Maki Nathaniel J. , Tilden Andrea R. , Graber Joel H. , Coffman James A.
Published: July 2023

Krüppel-like factor 9 (Klf9) is a ubiquitously expressed transcription factor that is a feedforward regulator of multiple stress-responsive and endocrine signaling pathways. We previously described how loss of Klf9 function affects the transcriptome of zebrafish larvae sampled at a single time point 5 days post-fertilization (dpf). However, klf9 expression oscillates diurnally, and the sampled time point corresponded to its expression nadir. To determine if the transcriptomic effects of the klf9−/− mutation vary with time of day, we performed bulk RNA-seq on 5 dpf zebrafish embryos sampled at three timepoints encompassing the predawn peak and midmorning nadir of klf9 expression. We found that while the major effects of the klf9−/− mutation that we reported previously are robust to time of day, the mutation has additional effects that manifest only at the predawn time point. We used a published single-cell atlas of zebrafish development to associate the effects of the klf9−/− mutation with different cell types and found that the mutation increased mRNA associated with digestive organs (liver, pancreas, and intestine) and decreased mRNA associated with differentiating neurons and blood. Measurements from confocally-imaged larvae suggest that overrepresentation of liver mRNA in klf9−/− mutants is due to development of enlarged livers.
A fingertip-type magnetic pulse detection device for unusual monitoring conditions
Authors: Shen Haoxuan , Gu Xiaoyi , Wu Yihong
Published: July 2023

Wearable devices for continuous non-invasive monitoring of physiological signals are crucial for preventive care and management of chronic conditions. However, these devices are either sensitive to skin conditions or require external stimuli, such as light or electrical excitation, to penetrate the skin for pulse detection. This often results in large motion artifacts and unsuitability for certain skin conditions. Here we demonstrate a simple fingertip-type device which can detect clear pulse signals under a range of conditions, including fingers covered by opaque substances such as a plaster or nail polish, or fingers immersed in water. The structure of the device consists of a pair of magnets and a magnetic sensor. Both experimental and numerical results show that the detected pulsation signals correspond directly to the vibrations induced by blood circulation with negligible influence from modulated magnetic signature of blood. Therefore, this device could be used in conditions which are challenging for existing pulse detectors and might also have its application extended to blood pressure measurement.
Introduction to Cheese Chemistry
Authors: Tunick Michael H. , Park Young W.
Published: July 2023

This opening chapter summarizes many aspects of cheese chemistry, from adding microbial cultures and enzymes to milk through manufacture to the various processes that occur as the final product takes shape. Changes to carbohydrates, lipids, and proteins resulting in flavour and texture receive particular attention. Citations to the remaining chapters in the book give the reader starting points for obtaining further information.
Cheese Ripening: An Overview of Technological Strategies Towards Process Acceleration
Authors: Vélez M. A. , Bergamini C. , Wolf I. V. , Peralta G. H. , Perotti M. C.
Published: July 2023

Cheese is a fermented food characterized by its many different flavours, textures, and aromas. Ripening is a crucial technological step in cheese manufacturing, constituting a cascade of biochemical events that confer unique sensory attributes, which demands long aging times depending on the cheese variety. This chapter will deal with the identification of technological strategies designed to accelerate cheese ripening by means of ripening profile studies and sensory characterization. Therefore, we will review the current knowledge of the principal contributions: physical treatments applied to cheese milk or to the final product, the use of exogenous enzymes, and the design of primary and adjunct starters. Particularly, we will focus on its applications in hard and semi-hard cheeses, for which a slow ripening period is necessary to achieve the desired product quality.
A multifunctional electrochemiluminescence and photoelectrochemical biosensor based on a quantum dot ion-exchange reaction for two-channel detection of thrombin
Authors: Xue Yali , Dong Wenshuai , Wang Bing , Jie Guifen
Published: July 2023

A multifunctional electrochemiluminescence and photoelectrochemical biosensor based on exchange of Ag+ with CdTe QDs was developed for dual-mode detection of thrombin.
Accessing indole–isoindole derivatives via palladium-catalyzed [3+2] cyclization of isocyanides with alkynyl imines
Authors: Chen Dianpeng , Li Jianming , Liu Gongle , Zhang Xiuhua , Wang Xin , Liu Yongwei , Liu Xuan , Liu Xinghai , Li Yongqin , Shan Yingying
Published: July 2023

An unprecedented route for the preparation of indole–isoindole derivatives was developed and proceeds via a palladium-catalyzed [3+2] cyclization of isocyanides with alkynyl imines.
Sequential flipping: the donor–acceptor exchange mechanism in water trimers
Authors: Yang Xinrui , Liu Rui , Xu Ruiqi , Wang Zhigang
Published: July 2023

Our study reports an unexplored hydrogen bond network rearrangement (HBNR) mechanism in water trimer and demonstrates that flipping can also lead to donor-acceptor exchange (DAE) rather than only the well–known proton transfer process.