bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Site-Specific Amplitude-Distance Laws, Wave Velocities, Damping, and Transfer Functions of the Soil from Hammer Impacts and Application to Railway-Induced Ground Vibration: Similarities and Mid-Frequency Differences
Authors: Auersch Lutz
Published: August 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to check if and how hammer experiments can be applied to the prediction of railway vibration.

Methods

The propagation of ground vibrations is theoretically analysed with frequency-wavenumber and simplified methods. Experimental methods are presented which can characterise the site-specific ground vibrations by wave velocities, stiffness and damping. Measurements with hammer and train excitation have been performed at several sites.

Results

The one-third octave spectra show the stiffness-dependent amplitudes and the low- and high-frequency filter effects due to the layering and the damping of the soil. Specific train effects, an additional high-frequency filter, the sleeper passage frequency, and an amplified mid-frequency component can be clearly found. The attenuation with distance is analysed in detail where the theoretical exponential and the empirical frequency-dependent power law are considered. Hammer and train excitation show the same site-specific effects which are mainly due to the stronger or weaker damping of the soil. The train attenuation is generally weaker than the hammer attenuation. The attenuation exponent of the power law, which is strongly dependent on the site and the frequency, is reduced for the train vibration by 0.3–0.5 in agreement with the theory. Reasons are discussed for the overall power law and for the dominating mid-frequency component.

Conclusion

Therefore, it can be concluded that hammer experiments can well be used for the prediction of train vibrations.
Evaluation of alternative substrates for rearing the yellow mealworm Tenebrio molitor (L)
Authors: Langston K. , Selaledi L. , Yusuf A.
Published: August 2023

Larvae of the mealworm beetleTenebrio molitoris commonly used as feed for pets and food for humans due to its rich nutrient contents. The beetle breeds prolifically and are reared in close proximity with their diet; known as substrates. However, the most commonly used substrate, wheat bran, is expensive making the rearing out of reach to many, especially in developing countries. This study evaluated the suitability of six other potential substrates; wheat flour, maize flour, Lucerne pellets, dog food, soya four and oats in comparison to wheat bran in order to explore a cost-effective alternative rearing substrate for mealworms. To achieve this, the mealworms were reared in a climate-controlled chamber and the total numbers, weight and the fecundity were determined for each substrate. Wheat bran and wheat flour produced the most mealworms, had the highest fecundity with wheat bran, Lucerne pellets an oat producing heavier worms than all other substrates. Maize flour, wheat flour and Lucerne, were found to be the most cost-effective alternative substrates for rearing mealworms with the cost per gram at 0.07, 0.05 and 0.04 US$ respectively. Both wheat flour and maize flour are easily accessible, have a long self-life thus ideal for both large-and small-scale production.

Graphical Abstract
These Aren’t The Droids You Are Looking for: Promises and Challenges for the Intersection of Affective Science and Robotics/AI
Authors: Kappas Arvid , Gratch Jonathan
Published: August 2023

AI research focused on interactions with humans, particularly in the form of robots or virtual agents, has expanded in the last two decades to include concepts related to affective processes. Affective computing is an emerging field that deals with issues such as how the diagnosis of affective states of users can be used to improve such interactions, also with a view to demonstrate affective behavior towards the user. This type of research often is based on two beliefs: (1) artificial emotional intelligence will improve human computer interaction (or more specifically human robot interaction), and (2) we understand the role of affective behavior in human interaction sufficiently to tell artificial systems what to do. However, within affective science the focus of research is often to test a particular assumption, such as “smiles affect liking.” Such focus does not provide the information necessary to synthesize affective behavior in long dynamic and real-time interactions. In consequence, theories do not play a large role in the development of artificial affective systems by engineers, but self-learning systems develop their behavior out of large corpora of recorded interactions. The status quo is characterized by measurement issues, theoretical lacunae regarding prevalence and functions of affective behavior in interaction, and underpowered studies that cannot provide the solid empirical foundation for further theoretical developments. This contribution will highlight some of these challenges and point towards next steps to create a rapprochement between engineers and affective scientists with a view to improving theory and solid applications.
Spatial and temporal changes of charosphere hotspots with or without nitrogen additions
Authors: Ran Hongyu , Wang Yan , Wei Keyu , Liu Ying , Wang Gang , Zhu Kun
Published: August 2023

The charosphere is a thin soil one surrounding the biochar with highly active biochemical functions. Yet, little is known about the spatial and temporal distribution of charosphere hotspots. In this study, repacked soil cores were incubated with a central layer of biochar (pristine or acid-modified) with or without nitrogen (N) additions for 30 days and sliced at the millimeter scale for analyzing soil pH, mineral N, bacterial and fungal communities as well as the putative functions. We aimed to determine gradient distributions (in millimeter scale) of charosphere affected by biochar under different N additions. Our results showed narrower gradient changes (3 mm) of microbial community composition and wider shifts (6 mm) in pH and inorganic N contents in charosphere. The pristine biochar increased the soil pH up to 1.5 units in the charosphere, and subsequently boosted the relative abundance of Proteobacteria, Acidobacteria, and Zygomycota. With N addition, both the biochar site and charosphere were observed with decreased complexity of microbial networks, which might imply the limited microbial functionality of charosphere. These results will advance the understanding and prediction of biochar’s environmental impacts in soil.

Graphical abstract
Interdependent factors influencing the carbon yield, structure, and CO$$_{2}$$ adsorption capacity of lignocellulose-derived carbon fibers using multiple linear regression
Authors: Miranda-Valdez Isaac Y. , Guizani Chamseddine , Abbrederis Nathalie , Trogen Mikaela , Hummel Michael
Published: August 2023

Cellulose has experienced a renaissance as a precursor for carbon fibers (CFs). However, cellulose possesses intrinsic challenges as precursor substrate such as typically low carbon yield. This study examines the interplay of strategies to increase the carbonization yield of (ligno-) cellulosic fibers manufactured via a coagulation process. Using Design of Experiments, this article assesses the individual and combined effects of diammonium hydrogen phosphate (DAP), lignin, and CO$$_{2}$$

2

activation on the carbonization yield and properties of cellulose-based carbon fibers. Synergistic effects are identified using the response surface methodology. This paper evidences that DAP and lignin could affect cellulose pyrolysis positively in terms of carbonization yield. Nevertheless, DAP and lignin do not have an additive effect on increasing the yield. In fact, combined DAP and lignin can affect negatively the carbonization yield within a certain composition range. Further, the thermogravimetric CO$$_{2}$$

2

adsorption of the respective CFs was measured, showing relatively high values (ca. 2 mmol/g) at unsaturated pressure conditions. The CFs were microporous materials with potential applications in gas separation membranes and CO$$_{2}$$

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storage systems.

Graphical abstract
Comparing the Acute Effects of a Session of Isometric Strength Training with Heavy Resistance Training on Neuromuscular Function
Authors: Lum Danny , Howatson Glyn
Published: August 2023

Purpose

This study compared the acute effects of a session of isometric strength training (ISO) with heavy resistance training (HRT) training on 20-m sprint, countermovement jump (CMJ) and isometric mid-thigh pull (IMTP) performance.

Methods

Ten resistance-trained athletes (age: 26.7 ± 6.2 years, body mass: 71.5 ± 16.2 kg, height: 1.68 ± 0.10 m) performed baseline measures for 20-m sprint, CMJ and IMTP prior to either an ISO or HRT session. During both training sessions, participants performed back squats, Romanian deadlift and split squat. Post-test performances were measured 5 min and 24 h after each training session. Participants returned a week later to perform the other training session.

Results

A significant time × condition effect was found for 20-m sprint time (P = 0.007) and IMTP peak force (P = 0.003). Main time effect was observed for 20-m sprint (P < 0.001), CMJ height (P < 0.001) and IMTP peak force (P < 0.001). HRT resulted in a greater increase in sprint time at 5 min (0.17 ± 0.12 vs. 0.06 ± 0.05 s, P = 0.013, g = 1.15) and 24 h (0.01 ± 0.09 vs. 0.00 ± 0.05 s, P = 0.004, g = 1.32) post-training as compared to ISO. Similarly, HRT resulted in a significantly larger reduction in IMTP peak force than ISO at both 5 min (− 363.3 ± 248.8 vs. − 98.9 ± 230.3 N, P = 0.024, g = 1.06) and 24 h (− 289.2 ± 256.2 vs. 37.9 ± 177.8 N, P = 0.004, g = 1.42) post-training. Total impulses generated during each exercise were greater during ISO than HRT (P < 0.001–0.006). Rating of perceived recovery post 24 h was higher in ISO than HRT (P = 0.002).

Conclusion

The above results indicated that acute HRT led to a greater reduction in sprinting strength performance and lower perceived recovery post-24 h than ISO.
Green synthesis and catalytic activity assessment of bespoke nano-catalyst for eco-friendly green propellant systems based on hydrogen peroxide
Authors: Elbasuney Sherif , Attwa Mohamed , Deif A. , ElGamal M. , Fayoud Ahmed , Abdelkhalek Sherif M. , Gobara M.
Published: August 2023

Much effort has been devoted to replace pollutant, toxic, cancerogenic hydrazine-based propellants. Hydrogen peroxide could secure promising characteristics as well as high density specific impulse. Effective catalysts with high durability are required to commence H2O2 decompositions, and to inherit hypergolic nature with different hydrocarbon fuels. Silver nanoparticles (18 nm) were synthesized via hydrogen gas evolved by water electrolysis. MnO2 (20 nm) was developed in a sustainable manner via green hydrothermal processing. High crystalline, mono-dispersed particles were developed. Catalytic activity was assessed via precise measurements of liquid temperature profile (LTP) up to the boiling point of hydrogen peroxide. Whereas silver demonstrated LTP peak within 20 s; MnO2 experienced LTP within 40 s. Catalyst survivability was recorded via precise measurement of life time mass loss rate upon catalyst addition to hydrogen peroxide. While silver nano-catalyst demonstrated high performance at the reaction start; silver was found to be poisoned with crystalline phase change to silver oxide within 20 s. On the contrary, manganese oxide experienced high durable catalytic action. Consequently, MnO2 could be candidate for H2O2 monopropellant thrusters as catalyst bed. On the other hand, silver nanoparticles could be candidate for a single use in bipropellant system to inherit hypergolicity. This study presents a pioneering report on facile synthesis of catalyst nanoparticles; comprehensive catalytic activity assessment of silver to manganese oxide for H2O2 decomposition was represented. Proper catalyst assortment for practical applications was represented.
Changes in surface mass balance and summer temperature from 1961–1990 to 1991–2020 for 37 glaciers with long records
Authors: Braithwaite Roger J. , Hughes Philip D.
Published: August 2023

Recent satellite measurements of glacier mass balance show mountain glaciers all over the world had generally negative mass balances in the first decades of the 21st century. We analyse archived data for surface mass balance and summer temperature for 37 Northern Hemisphere glaciers with data for 1961–2020. We compare mean annual balances for 1961–90 and 1991–2020, and for 25 glaciers explain the changes in annual balance by changes in winter and summer balances. Mean balances 1961–90 were already substantially negative for 19 out of the 25 glaciers. Changes in winter balances from 1961–90 to 1991–2020 average close to zero but changes in summer balance are strongly negative. Mean balance 1991–2020 is strongly correlated with change in summer balance, weakly correlated with winter balance change, and strongly correlated with mean balance 1961–90. We estimate 1991–2020 summer temperature anomalies for the 37 glaciers and confirm that summer temperature anomalies for 1991–2020 were higher for the Alps, by nearly 1.5°C, than for other areas. Substantial variations in the temperature – sensitivity of summer balances for individual glaciers of −0.2 to −1.0 m w.e. a−1°C−1 deserve further study.
Improving Learning in Low- and Lower-Middle-Income Countries
Authors: Angrist Noam , Aurino Elisabetta , Patrinos Harry A. , Psacharopoulos George , Vegas Emiliana , Nordjo Ralph , Wong Brad
Published: August 2023

The current challenge of education systems is learning. Across low-income countries (LICs) and lower-middle-income countries (LMCs), 62 % of 10-year-olds could not read at a minimally sufficient level in 2015. This study provides an overview of recent spending on education and its correlation with learning outcomes. We show that the relationship between education spending and learning is historically weak. From 2000 to 2015, LICs and LMCs increased spending on education in primary schools by ~$137 per student, an 80 % inflation-adjusted increase, with no corresponding change on the average learning outcomes. We then conduct a benefit-cost analysis of candidate interventions that could increase learning at low cost. Two interventions – structured pedagogy and, teaching at the right level, with and without a technology component generate large benefit-cost ratios. If deployed uniformly to reach 90 % of the 467 million students in LICs and LMCs, these interventions would cost on average $18 per student per year or $7.6 billion annually, generating $65 in benefits for every $1 spent. The economic logic behind this finding is that the hard and costly work of getting children into primary schools has mostly been accomplished, leaving open the possibility of learning interventions that improve the efficiency of the existing education system at low cost. Our results show that increasing education expenditure by just 6 % could increase learning by 120 % if directed toward these highly cost-effective interventions.
Informing the Global Data Future: Benchmarking Data Governance Frameworks
Authors: Marcucci Sara , Alarcón Natalia González , Verhulst Stefaan G. , Wüllhorst Elena
Published: August 2023

Data has become a critical trans-national and cross-border resource. Yet, the lack of a well-defined approach to using it poses challenges to harnessing its value. This article explores the increasing importance of global data governance due to the rapid growth of data, and the need for responsible data practices. The purpose of this paper is to compare approaches and identify patterns in the emergent data governance ecosystem within sectors close to the international development field, ultimately presenting key takeaways and reflections on when and why a global data governance framework may be needed. Overall, the paper provides information about the conditions when a more holistic, coordinated transnational approach to data governance may be needed to responsibly manage the global flow of data. The report does this by (a) considering conditions specified by the literature that may be conducive to global data governance, and (b) analyzing and comparing existing frameworks, specifically investigating six key elements: purpose, principles, anchoring documents, data description and lifecycle, processes, and practices. The article closes with a series of final recommendations, which include adopting a broader concept of data stewardship to reconcile data protection and promotion, focusing on responsible reuse of data to unlock socioeconomic value, harmonizing meanings to operationalize principles, incorporating global human rights frameworks to provide common North Stars, unifying key definitions of data, adopting a data lifecycle approach, incorporating participatory processes and collective agency, investing in new professions with specific roles, improving accountability through oversight and compliance mechanisms, and translating recommendations into practical tools.
Two Raji Dialects Converge with Persian: Contrasting Responses to Contact Influence
Authors: Talebi-Dastenaei Mahnaz , Poshtvan Hamideh , Anonby Erik
Published: August 2023

Raji is a Central Plateau (Iranic) language spoken in Kashan district, in the north-west corner of Esfahan Province, Iran. Here, we investigate the nature of Persian influence on the lexicon of two closely-related Raji dialects: that of Abuzeydabad, a desert outpost at 947m above sea level, and Barzok, a well-watered farming community at 2080m in mountains nearby. As expected, our analysis shows many inherited similarities due to linguistic relationship among the three Iranic varieties; cases of difference and innovation that distinguish them; and profound impact of Persian on both Raji dialects. Nonetheless, the degree and patterning of convergence with Persian is uneven, with the dialect of Abuzeydabad showing greater wholesale borrowing from Persian, as well as evidence of structural hybridization. To account for the divergent effects of Persian influence, we review social and geographic dynamics in the language contact situation. Key factors such as population, distance from the nearby Persian-speaking city of Kashan, language identity, and the impact of media and education are equivalent. However, a stark contrast between the towns’ geographic settings defines their social networks and patterns of mobility, and in turn how speakers of each linguistic code respond to Persian influence.
Estrategias humanas y paleoclima en los Andes (34°S): Variaciones en la intensidad de ocupación de Laguna del Diamante (ca. 2000-500 años aP)
Authors: Yebra Lucía , Cortegoso Valeria , Marsh Erik , de Porras María Eugenia , Maldonado Antonio , Castro Silvina , Barberena Ramiro , Winocur Diego , Durán Víctor
Published: August 2023

El área de Laguna del Diamante (3.000 m snm) tiene una oferta de recursos atractiva para las sociedades humanas durante los últimos 2.000 años. Este trabajo evalúa la variable intensidad en la ocupación humana en Laguna del Diamante en cinco segmentos temporales entre 2030 y 440 años cal aP. Estos segmentos se modelaron a partir de 14 fechados radiocarbónicos procedentes de tres sitios; la densidad de lascas proximales se evalúa como proxy de intensidad de ocupación. Se comparan los pulsos registrados arqueológicamente con la variabilidad ambiental vinculada a aumento/disminución de temperatura y humedad, de los últimos milenios en tres lagunas: Aculeo, Chepical y del Maule (33°-35°S). A partir de diversos indicadores —cobertura vegetal, extensión/disminución de la cubierta de hielo, cambios de la precipitación relacionados al sistema de vientos del oeste y su variabilidad debido a El Niño Oscilación del Sur— se observó en casi toda la secuencia una asociación positiva entre condiciones favorables y ocupaciones intensas. Se discute el registro de dos pulsos de mayor intensidad: entre 1200 y 1280 años cal aP, asociado con aumento de temperatura de verano e intensificación de precipitaciones; y entre 450 y 500 años cal aP, vinculado con condiciones frías y coincidente con la presencia incaica en el área.
“The Most Marketable Political Commodity”: Oliver North, Iran-Contra, and American Domestic Politics
Authors: McPherson Alan
Published: August 2023

From Oliver North's congressional testimony in 1987 to his near-successful Senate run in 1994, this article assesses the significance of the Iran-Contra scandal to the American domestic political landscape. It positions Iran-Contra at a transitional moment in right-wing politics, torn between loyalty to Reagan on one hand and the combativeness of the 1990s’ New Right on the other. In four stages—denial, fame, fundraising, and forgetting—defenders of North set forth a model of how ascendant forces in the New Right would, post-Reagan, transform scandal into political capital. Iran-Contra provided grist for media outlets that demonized the mainstream media, voters and members of Congress who excused criminality, and two White Houses who longed to forgive and forget. Thus can the historiography of American conservatism, currently in full bloom, begin to reckon with Iran-Contra's place in domestic politics.
Dual administration of lipopolysaccharide induces behavioural changes in rats relevant to psychotic disorders
Authors: Zheng Yi-Ran , Tufvesson-Alm Maximilian , Trepci Ada , Imbeault Sophie , Li Xue-Qi , Schwieler Lilly , Engberg Göran , Erhardt Sophie
Published: August 2023

Objective:

We previously reported that dual injections of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in mice constitute a valuable tool for investigating the contribution of inflammation to psychotic disorders. The present study investigated how immune activation affects the kynurenine pathway and rat behaviour of relevance for psychotic disorders.

Methods:

Male Sprague Dawley rats were treated with either dual injections of LPS (0.5 mg/kg + 0.5 mg/kg, i.p.) or dual injections of saline. Twenty-four hours after the second injection, behavioural tests were carried out, including locomotor activity test, fear conditioning test, spontaneous alternation Y-maze test, and novel object recognition test. In a separate batch of animals, in vivo striatal microdialysis was performed, and tryptophan, kynurenine, quinolinic acid, and kynurenic acid (KYNA) in the dialysate were measured using ultra-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS).

Results:

Dual-LPS treatment decreased spontaneous locomotion, exaggerated d-amphetamine-induced locomotor activity, and impaired recognition memory in male Sprague-Dawley rats. In vivo microdialysis showed that dual-LPS treatment elicited metabolic disturbances in the kynurenine pathway with increased extracellular levels of kynurenine and KYNA in the striatum.

Conclusion:

The present study further supports the feasibility of using the dual-LPS model to investigate inflammation-related psychotic disorders and cognitive impairments.
The Parliamentary Regime: The Political Philosophy of Confederation
Authors: McKinnell Ryan Alexander
Published: August 2023

This article clarifies the intellectual origins of Canadian parliamentary government by situating Confederation within a specific strand of liberal political thought. My argument is that the Fathers of Confederation adhered to the political theory of parliamentarianism. Though liberal constitutionalists, the Fathers of Confederation expressly defended a parliamentary political framework that they considered superior to the American system of checks and balances—one characterized by a powerful elected assembly restrained by an unelected upper house, responsible ministers serving in Parliament, and a constitutional monarch. In elucidating the theory of parliamentarianism that underlies the political project of Confederation, my goal is not only to examine a problem in nineteenth-century Canadian political thought but to ground our current political situation within a larger historical perspective.
Option-Implied Dependence and Correlation Risk Premium
Authors: Bondarenko Oleg , Bernard Carole
Published: August 2023

We propose a novel model-free approach to obtain the joint risk-neutral distribution among several assets that is consistent with options on these assets and their weighted index. We implement this approach for the nine industry sectors comprising the S&P 500 index and find that their option-implied dependence is highly asymmetric and time-varying. We then study two conditional correlations: when the market moves down or up. The risk premium is strongly negative for the down correlation but positive for the up correlation. Intuitively, investors dislike the loss of diversification when markets fall, but they actually prefer high correlation when markets rally.
What is Reception Study? A Proposal for Terminological Definitions Based on Christina Hoegen-Rohls’ Article
Authors: Burnet Régis
Published: August 2023

A response to the article by Christina Hoegen-Rohls.
Accommodating Nutopia: The nuclear ban treaty and the developmental interests of Global South countries
Authors: Futter Andrew , Samuel Olamide
Published: August 2023

This article argues that the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons (TPNW) would not have been possible without protecting the inalienable rights of states to pursue nuclear energy for peaceful purposes. While some Western states and NGOs have pushed to ban all applications of nuclear technology, this was unacceptable to a large number of disarmament-supporting states from the Global South and the Non-Aligned Movement. Without support from states across the Global South, the TPNW would not have achieved the required number of signatories to be adopted. Thus, we argue that to properly understand the TPNW, an appreciation of states’ interests and motivations beyond their more widely discussed frustrations with the pace of nuclear disarmament is essential. We also argue that nuclear weapons scholarship must pay more attention to perspectives from the Global South and the concept of Nutopia – a belief in both the dystopian potential of nuclear weapons and the utopian possibilities of nuclear energy – in its understanding of nuclear politics, past and present. Global South perspectives are often overlooked, and as such, current regimes of nuclear arms control and disarmament remain only partially understood in Western literature.
A systematic review of the evidence on the associations and safety of COVID-19 vaccination and post COVID-19 condition
Authors: Jennings Sydney , Corrin Tricia , Waddell Lisa
Published: August 2023

Post COVID-19 condition (PCC) refers to persistent or recurring symptoms (>8 weeks) occurring ≤12 weeks following acute COVID-19. The objective of this systematic review was to assess the evidence on the risk of PCC with vaccination before or after COVID-19 or after developing PCC, and the safety of vaccination among those already experiencing PCC. A search was conducted up to 13 December 2022 and standard systematic review methodology was followed. Thirty-one observational studies were included. There is moderate confidence that two doses of vaccine given pre-infection reduced the odds of PCC (pooled OR (pOR) 0.67, 95% CI 0.60–0.74, I2 = 59.9%), but low confidence that one dose may not reduce the odds (pOR 0.64, 95% CI 0.31#x2013;1.31, I2 = 99.2%), and the evidence is very uncertain about the effect of three doses (pOR 0.45, 95% CI 0.10#x2013;1.99, I2 = 30.9%). One of three studies suggested vaccination shortly after COVID-19 may offer additional protection from developing PCC compared to unvaccinated individuals, but this evidence was very uncertain. For those with PCC, vaccination was not associated with worsening PCC symptoms (10 studies) and appears safe (3 studies), but it is unclear if vaccination may change established PCC symptoms.
Differential public support and the independence of anti-corruption agencies
Authors: Xu Jian , Xu Jing
Published: August 2023

Specialized anti-corruption agencies (ACAs) aim to address corruption problems when conventional institutional mechanisms are dysfunctional. Yet, we still lack thorough understanding of the conditions that enable ACAs to withstand undue influences of the overarching political regime. Informed by the judicial politics literature, we examine the value of public opinion in empowering ACAs. Leveraging the evolving political conditions of Hong Kong, we argue that a lack of public support for other government organs offers opportunities for an ACA to distinguish itself from the rest of the regime and establish operational independence. We find that a signature ACA of Hong Kong, created by the British colonial government, has been uniquely sensitive to public complaints of corruption. The agency is the most responsive when other government branches are perceived to be lacking integrity. Also, negative appraisals of the political regime encourage the ACA’s institutional functions and increase the degree of enforcement discretion entrusted to it. Our findings suggest a mechanism of ACA empowerment whereby the public is committed to sustaining agency independence because of their distrust and the unpopularity of other government organs. Therefore, potential institutional threats posed by an unpopular regime to the ACA may actually strengthen the latter’s power and autonomy.
„Wenn gewisse Spannungen da sind, wirkt das auf alle ein“
Authors: Martinelli Livia , Siegrist-Dreier Sandra , Schlup Nanja , Hahn Sabine
Published: August 2023

Zusammenfassung: Hintergrund: Zwangsmaßnahmen (ZM) sind in der psychiatrischen Versorgung dringend zu reduzieren. Die Interaktionen zwischen Patient_innen, Pflegefachpersonen (PP) und ärztlichen Fachpersonen beeinflussen den Verlauf von ZM. Ziel: Die Interaktionen vor, während und nach ZM werden aus den Perspektiven der beteiligten Personen beschrieben und gegenübergestellt, um daraus Potential für Prävention und Qualitätsverbesserung zu erkennen. Methoden: Eine multiple Fallstudie zu drei ZM wurde durchgeführt, jeweils bestehend aus Interviews mit drei Beteiligten, Falldokumentation, Fotos und Beobachtung. Das Datenmaterial wurde thematisch analysiert mit anschließender Single-Case- und Cross-Case-Analyse. Ergebnisse: Drei Spannungsfelder zeigten sich: Anspannung und Entspannung, Menschlichkeit und Entmenschlichung sowie Sicherheit und Autonomie. Die Phase vor der ZM war geprägt durch wechselwirkende Spannungen und dem Einfluss von Emotionen und Stress. In allen Fällen lag eine verbale Kommunikationsstörung vor. Während der ZM bestimmte die Qualität der Interaktion zwischen PP und Patient_in deren Erleben. Nach der ZM standen Auswirkungen der ZM auf die Personen und Beziehungen sowie Reflexionen im Vordergrund. Schlussfolgerungen: Deeskalationstechniken erweisen sich als zentral, wobei künftig ein besonderes Augenmerk auf emotionale und nonverbale Aspekte gelegt werden sollte. Die Resultate bestätigen die Bedeutung von Empathie und Respekt während des gesamten Prozesses hinsichtlich Prävention und Pflegequalität. Nachbesprechungen zu erfolgten ZM sollten routinemäßig durchgeführt werden.
Immunotherapy in hematologic malignancies: achievements, challenges and future prospects
Authors: Tang Lu , Huang Zhongpei , Mei Heng , Hu Yu
Published: August 2023

The immune-cell origin of hematologic malignancies provides a unique avenue for the understanding of both the mechanisms of immune responsiveness and immune escape, which has accelerated the progress of immunotherapy. Several categories of immunotherapies have been developed and are being further evaluated in clinical trials for the treatment of blood cancers, including stem cell transplantation, immune checkpoint inhibitors, antigen-targeted antibodies, antibody-drug conjugates, tumor vaccines, and adoptive cell therapies. These immunotherapies have shown the potential to induce long-term remission in refractory or relapsed patients and have led to a paradigm shift in cancer treatment with great clinical success. Different immunotherapeutic approaches have their advantages but also shortcomings that need to be addressed. To provide clinicians with timely information on these revolutionary therapeutic approaches, the comprehensive review provides historical perspectives on the applications and clinical considerations of the immunotherapy. Here, we first outline the recent advances that have been made in the understanding of the various categories of immunotherapies in the treatment of hematologic malignancies. We further discuss the specific mechanisms of action, summarize the clinical trials and outcomes of immunotherapies in hematologic malignancies, as well as the adverse effects and toxicity management and then provide novel insights into challenges and future directions.
VEGF-B prevents excessive angiogenesis by inhibiting FGF2/FGFR1 pathway
Authors: Lee Chunsik , Chen Rongyuan , Sun Guangli , Liu Xialin , Lin Xianchai , He Chang , Xing Liying , Liu Lixian , Jensen Lasse D. , Kumar Anil , Langer Harald F. , Ren Xiangrong , Zhang Jianing , Huang Lijuan , Yin Xiangke , Kim JongKyong , Zhu Juanhua , Huang Guanqun , Li Jiani , Lu Weiwei , Chen Wei , Liu Juanxi , Hu Jiaxin , Sun Qihang , Lu Weisi , Fang Lekun , Wang Shasha , Kuang Haiqing , Zhang Yihan , Tian Geng , Mi Jia , Kang Bi-Ang , Narazaki Masashi , Prodeus Aaron , Schoonjans Luc , Ornitz David M. , Gariepy Jean , Eelen Guy , Dewerchin Mieke , Yang Yunlong , Ou Jing-Song , Mora Antonio , Yao Jin , Zhao Chen , Liu Yizhi , Carmeliet Peter , Cao Yihai , Li Xuri
Published: August 2023

Although VEGF-B was discovered as a VEGF-A homolog a long time ago, the angiogenic effect of VEGF-B remains poorly understood with limited and diverse findings from different groups. Notwithstanding, drugs that inhibit VEGF-B together with other VEGF family members are being used to treat patients with various neovascular diseases. It is therefore critical to have a better understanding of the angiogenic effect of VEGF-B and the underlying mechanisms. Using comprehensive in vitro and in vivo methods and models, we reveal here for the first time an unexpected and surprising function of VEGF-B as an endogenous inhibitor of angiogenesis by inhibiting the FGF2/FGFR1 pathway when the latter is abundantly expressed. Mechanistically, we unveil that VEGF-B binds to FGFR1, induces FGFR1/VEGFR1 complex formation, and suppresses FGF2-induced Erk activation, and inhibits FGF2-driven angiogenesis and tumor growth. Our work uncovers a previously unrecognized novel function of VEGF-B in tethering the FGF2/FGFR1 pathway. Given the anti-angiogenic nature of VEGF-B under conditions of high FGF2/FGFR1 levels, caution is warranted when modulating VEGF-B activity to treat neovascular diseases.
Well-hidden methanogenesis in deep, organic-rich sediments of Guaymas Basin
Authors: Bojanova Diana P , De Anda Valerie Y , Haghnegahdar Mojhgan A , Teske Andreas P , Ash Jeanine L , Young Edward D , Baker Brett J , LaRowe Douglas E , Amend Jan P
Published: August 2023

Deep marine sediments (>1mbsf) harbor ~26% of microbial biomass and are the largest reservoir of methane on Earth. Yet, the deep subsurface biosphere and controls on its contribution to methane production remain underexplored. Here, we use a multidisciplinary approach to examine methanogenesis in sediments (down to 295 mbsf) from sites with varying degrees of thermal alteration (none, past, current) at Guaymas Basin (Gulf of California) for the first time. Traditional (13C/12C and D/H) and multiply substituted (13CH3D and 12CH2D2) methane isotope measurements reveal significant proportions of microbial methane at all sites, with the largest signal at the site with past alteration. With depth, relative microbial methane decreases at differing rates between sites. Gibbs energy calculations confirm methanogenesis is exergonic in Guaymas sediments, with methylotrophic pathways consistently yielding more energy than the canonical hydrogenotrophic and acetoclastic pathways. Yet, metagenomic sequencing and cultivation attempts indicate that methanogens are present in low abundance. We find only one methyl-coenzyme M (mcrA) sequence within the entire sequencing dataset. Also, we identify a wide diversity of methyltransferases (mtaB, mttB), but only a few sequences phylogenetically cluster with methylotrophic methanogens. Our results suggest that the microbial methane in the Guaymas subsurface was produced over geologic time by relatively small methanogen populations, which have been variably influenced by thermal sediment alteration. Higher resolution metagenomic sampling may clarify the modern methanogen community. This study highlights the importance of using a multidisciplinary approach to capture microbial influences in dynamic, deep subsurface settings like Guaymas Basin.
Nitrogen and phosphorous acquisition strategies drive coexistence patterns among archaeal lineages in soil
Authors: Zhao Jun , Huang Laibin , Chakrabarti Seemanti , Cooper Jennifer , Choi EunKyung , Ganan Carolina , Tolchinsky Bryn , Triplett Eric W , Daroub Samira H , Martens-Habbena Willm
Published: August 2023

Soil represents the largest reservoir of Archaea on Earth. Present-day archaeal diversity in soils globally is dominated by members of the class Nitrososphaeria. The evolutionary radiation of this class is thought to reflect adaptations to a wide range of temperatures, pH, and other environmental conditions. However, the mechanisms that govern competition and coexistence among Nitrososphaeria lineages in soil remain poorly understood. Here we show that predominant soil Nitrososphaeria lineages compose a patchwork of gene inventory and expression profiles for ammonia, urea, and phosphate utilization. In contrast, carbon fixation, respiration, and ATP synthesis genes are conserved and expressed consistently among predominant phylotypes across 12 major evolutionary lineages commonly found in soil. In situ gene expression profiles closely resemble pure culture reference strains under optimal growth conditions. Together, these results reveal resource-based coexistence patterns among Nitrososphaeria lineages and suggest complementary ecophysiological niches associated with differential nutrient acquisition strategies among globally predominant archaeal lineages in soil.
Metabolic PET/CT analysis of aggressive Non-Hodgkin lymphoma prior to Axicabtagene Ciloleucel CAR-T infusion: predictors of progressive disease, survival, and toxicity
Authors: Breen William G. , Young Jason R. , Hathcock Matthew A. , Kowalchuk Roman O. , Thorpe Matthew P. , Bansal Radhika , Khurana Arushi , Bennani N. Nora , Paludo Jonas , Bisneto Jose Villasboas , Wang Yucai , Ansell Stephen M. , Peterson Jennifer L. , Johnston Patrick B. , Lester Scott C. , Lin Yi
Published: August 2023

PET/CT is used to evaluate relapsed/refractory non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) prior to chimeric antigen receptor T-cell (CAR-T) infusion at two time points: pre-leukapheresis (pre-leuk) and pre-lymphodepletion chemotherapy (pre-LD). We hypothesized that changes in PET/CT between these time points predict outcomes after CAR-T. Metabolic tumor volume (MTV), total lesion glycolysis (TLG), and other metrics were calculated from pre-leuk and pre-LD PET/CT scans in patients with NHL who received axicabtagene ciloleucel, and assessed for association with outcomes. Sixty-nine patients were analyzed. While single time point PET/CT characteristics were not associated with risk of PD or death, increases from pre-leuk to pre-LD in parenchymal MTV, nodal MTV, TLG of the largest lesion, and total number of lesions were associated with increased risk of death (p < 0.05 for all). LASSO analysis identified increasing extranodal MTV and increasing TLG of the largest lesion as strong predictors of death (AUC 0.74). Greater pre-LD total MTV was associated with higher risk of grade 3+ immune effector cell-associated neurotoxicity syndrome (ICANS) (p = 0.042). Increasing metabolic disease burden during CAR-T manufacturing is associated with increased risk of progression and death. A two variable risk score stratifies prognosis prior to CAR-T infusion and may inform risk-adapted strategies.
Functional hydrogel-plastic hybrids inspired by the structural characteristics of mussels
Authors: Wen Zhixuan , Zhou Teng , Xu Qian , Chen Weipeng , Xin Weiwen , Kong Xiang-Yu , Jiang Lei
Published: August 2023

Shellfish with rigid shells prevent damage to their delicate internal cores, and their soft bonding muscles drive the opening and closing of the shells. This synergism of rigid and soft materials provides shellfish with unique environmental adaptation. Inspired by the structural characteristics of mussels, a riveting layer was introduced into hydrogel-plastic hybrids for bonding hydrogel networks and plastic substrates. The bonding strength of the hydrogel on the polypropylene (PP) substrate was approximately 1.52 MPa, and the interface toughness reached 1450 J m−2. Furthermore, the integration of plastics and microscale hydrogels, as well as abscised or prefabricated hydrogels, could also be fabricated through the same process. By using this strategy, a hydrogel-plastic hybrid-based device with temperature responsiveness and scratch resistance was fabricated and could mimic the basic activities of mussels. This work improves the functional materials used in programmable engineering systems and could facilitate the construction of intelligent robots.
Mitochondria are secreted in extracellular vesicles when lysosomal function is impaired
Authors: Liang Wenjing , Sagar Shakti , Ravindran Rishith , Najor Rita H. , Quiles Justin M. , Chi Liguo , Diao Rachel Y. , Woodall Benjamin P. , Leon Leonardo J. , Zumaya Erika , Duran Jason , Cauvi David M. , De Maio Antonio , Adler Eric D. , Gustafsson Åsa B.
Published: August 2023

Mitochondrial quality control is critical for cardiac homeostasis as these organelles are responsible for generating most of the energy needed to sustain contraction. Dysfunctional mitochondria are normally degraded via intracellular degradation pathways that converge on the lysosome. Here, we identified an alternative mechanism to eliminate mitochondria when lysosomal function is compromised. We show that lysosomal inhibition leads to increased secretion of mitochondria in large extracellular vesicles (EVs). The EVs are produced in multivesicular bodies, and their release is independent of autophagy. Deletion of the small GTPase Rab7 in cells or adult mouse heart leads to increased secretion of EVs containing ubiquitinated cargos, including intact mitochondria. The secreted EVs are captured by macrophages without activating inflammation. Hearts from aged mice or Danon disease patients have increased levels of secreted EVs containing mitochondria indicating activation of vesicular release during cardiac pathophysiology. Overall, these findings establish that mitochondria are eliminated in large EVs through the endosomal pathway when lysosomal degradation is inhibited.
Attaching protein-adsorbing silica particles to the surface of cotton substrates for bioaerosol capture including SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Collings Kieran , Boisdon Cedric , Sham Tung-Ting , Skinley Kevin , Oh Hyun-Kyung , Prince Tessa , Ahmed Adham , Pennington Shaun H. , Brownridge Philip J. , Edwards Thomas , Biagini Giancarlo A. , Eyers Claire E. , Lamb Amanda , Myers Peter , Maher Simon
Published: August 2023

The novel coronavirus pandemic (COVID-19) has necessitated a global increase in the use of face masks to limit the airborne spread of the virus. The global demand for personal protective equipment has at times led to shortages of face masks for the public, therefore makeshift masks have become commonplace. The severe acute respiratory syndrome caused by coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) has a spherical particle size of ~97 nm. However, the airborne transmission of this virus requires the expulsion of droplets, typically ~0.6–500 µm in diameter (by coughing, sneezing, breathing, and talking). In this paper, we propose a face covering that has been designed to effectively capture SARS-CoV-2 whilst providing uncompromised comfort and breathability for the wearer. Herein, we describe a material approach that uses amorphous silica microspheres attached to cotton fibres to capture bioaerosols, including SARS CoV-2. This has been demonstrated for the capture of aerosolised proteins (cytochrome c, myoglobin, ubiquitin, bovine serum albumin) and aerosolised inactivated SARS CoV-2, showing average filtration efficiencies of ~93% with minimal impact on breathability.
TIGIT can inhibit T cell activation via ligation-induced nanoclusters, independent of CD226 co-stimulation
Authors: Worboys Jonathan D. , Vowell Katherine N. , Hare Roseanna K. , Ambrose Ashley R. , Bertuzzi Margherita , Conner Michael A. , Patel Florence P. , Zammit William H. , Gali-Moya Judit , Hazime Khodor S. , Jones Katherine L. , Rey Camille , Jonjic Stipan , Rovis Tihana Lenac , Tannahill Gillian M. , Cruz De Matos Gabriela Dos Santos , Waight Jeremy D. , Davis Daniel M.
Published: August 2023

TIGIT is an inhibitory receptor expressed on lymphocytes and can inhibit T cells by preventing CD226 co-stimulation through interactions in cis or through competition of shared ligands. Whether TIGIT directly delivers cell-intrinsic inhibitory signals in T cells remains unclear. Here we show, by analysing lymphocytes from matched human tumour and peripheral blood samples, that TIGIT and CD226 co-expression is rare on tumour-infiltrating lymphocytes. Using super-resolution microscopy and other techniques, we demonstrate that ligation with CD155 causes TIGIT to reorganise into dense nanoclusters, which coalesce with T cell receptor (TCR)-rich clusters at immune synapses. Functionally, this reduces cytokine secretion in a manner dependent on TIGIT’s intracellular ITT-like signalling motif. Thus, we provide evidence that TIGIT directly inhibits lymphocyte activation, acting independently of CD226, requiring intracellular signalling that is proximal to the TCR. Within the subset of tumours where TIGIT-expressing cells do not commonly co-express CD226, this will likely be the dominant mechanism of action.
Dual-comb optomechanical spectroscopy
Authors: Ren Xinyi , Pan Jin , Yan Ming , Sheng Jiteng , Yang Cheng , Zhang Qiankun , Ma Hui , Wen Zhaoyang , Huang Kun , Wu Haibin , Zeng Heping
Published: August 2023

Optical cavities are essential for enhancing the sensitivity of molecular absorption spectroscopy, which finds widespread high-sensitivity gas sensing applications. However, the use of high-finesse cavities confines the wavelength range of operation and prevents broader applications. Here, we take a different approach to ultrasensitive molecular spectroscopy, namely dual-comb optomechanical spectroscopy (DCOS), by integrating the high-resolution multiplexing capabilities of dual-comb spectroscopy with cavity optomechanics through photoacoustic coupling. By exciting the molecules photoacoustically with dual-frequency combs and sensing the molecular-vibration-induced ultrasound waves with a cavity-coupled mechanical resonator, we measure high-resolution broadband ( > 2 THz) overtone spectra for acetylene gas and obtain a normalized noise equivalent absorption coefficient of 1.71 × 10−11 cm−1·W·Hz−1/2 with 30 GHz simultaneous spectral bandwidth. Importantly, the optomechanical resonator allows broadband dual-comb excitation. Our approach not only enriches the practical applications of the emerging cavity optomechanics technology but also offers intriguing possibilities for multi-species trace gas detection.