bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phonological Working Memory and Sentence Production in School-Age Children with Typical Language, Dyslexia, and Comorbid Dyslexia and Developmental Language Disorder
Authors: METTLER Heidi M. , ALT Mary , GRAY Shelley , HOGAN Tiffany P. , GREEN Samuel , COWAN Nelson
Published: October 2022

Purpose

Little is known about the relationship between sentence production and phonological working memory in school-age children. To fill this gap, we examined how strongly these constructs correlate. We also compared diagnostic groups’ working memory abilities to see if differences co-occurred with qualitative differences in their sentences.

Method

We conducted Bayesian analyses on data from seven- to nine-year-old children (n = 165 typical language, n = 81 dyslexia-only, n = 43 comorbid dyslexia and developmental language disorder). We correlated sentence production and working memory scores and conducted t tests between groups’ working memory scores and sentence length, lexical diversity, and complexity.

Results

Correlations were positive but weak. The dyslexic and typical groups had dissimilar working memory and comparable sentence quality. The dyslexic and comorbid groups had comparable working memory but dissimilar sentence quality.

Conclusion

Contrary to literature-based predictions, phonological working memory and sentence production are weakly related in school-age children.
Imagery re-scripting for PTSD: session content and its relation to symptom improvement
Authors: Brown Gary , Salter Caroline , Parker Eleanor , Murray Hannah , Looney Kathy , El Leithy Sharif , Medin Evelina , Novakova Barbora , Wheatley Jonathan
Published: October 2022

Imagery rescripting (ImRs) is a therapy technique that, unlike traditional re-living techniques, focuses less on exposure and verbal challenging of cognitions and instead encourages patients to directly transform the intrusive imagery to change the depicted course of events in a more desired direction. However, a comprehensive account of how and in what circumstances ImRs brings about therapeutic change is required if treatment is to be optimised, and this is yet to be developed. The present study reports on the development of a coding scheme of ImRs psychotherapy elements identified in the literature as potential ImRs mechanisms. The codes were assessed in relation to short-term outcomes of 27 individuals undergoing ImRs for post-traumatic stress disorder. The timing of the change in the image, degree of activation of the new image and associated cognitive, emotional and physiological processes, self-guided rescripting, rescript believability, narrative coherence and cognitive and emotional shift were identified as being related to symptom change and so are potentially important factors for the re-scripting process.
The Politics of Welfare Retrenchment: Evidence from Mass Medicaid Disenrollment in Two States
Authors: Kogan Vladimir
Published: October 2022

In 2005, Missouri and Tennessee tightened eligibility for their public health insurance programs, resulting in widespread coverage losses. Leveraging county-level variation in subsequent disenrollment, I show that voters in Tennessee punished the incumbent governor for the Medicaid cuts. In Missouri, by contrast, disenrollment had no impact on the subsequent gubernatorial election but did increase support for Democrats in 2006 state legislative elections, possibly due to the strategic entry and exit of candidates. In both states, the loss of Medicaid coverage was associated with lower support for Democratic presidential candidates, although these declines appear part of a longer-term trend that preceded the coverage loss. The results speak to the potential political costs of welfare spending cuts and the electoral consequences of reducing income-targeted social programs.
Rare Meteorites Shed Light on Diamond Formation
Authors: Kornei Katherine
Published: October 2022

By studying meteorites believed to be remnants of the catastrophic breakup of a dwarf planet, researchers are learning how lonsdaleite, a particularly hard type of diamond, forms in nature.
Error and Uncertainty Degrade Topographic Corrections of Remotely Sensed Data
Authors: Dozier Jeff , Bair Edward H. , Baskaran Latha , Brodrick Philip G. , Carmon Nimrod , Kokaly Raymond F. , Miller Charles E. , Miner Kimberley R. , Painter Thomas H. , Thompson David R.
Published: October 2022

Chemical and biological composition of surface materials and physical structure and arrangement of those materials determine the intrinsic reflectance of Earth's land surface. The apparent reflectance—as measured by a spaceborne or airborne sensor that has been corrected for atmospheric attenuation—depends also on topography, surface roughness, and the atmosphere. Especially in Earth's mountains, estimating properties of scientific interest from remotely sensed data requires compensation for topography. Doing so requires information from digital elevation models (DEMs). Available DEMs with global coverage are derived from spaceborne interferometric radar and stereo‐photogrammetry at ∼30 m spatial resolution. Locally or regionally, lidar altimetry, interferometric radar, or stereo‐photogrammetry produces DEMs with finer resolutions. Characterization of their quality typically expresses the root‐mean‐square (RMS) error of the elevation, but the accuracy of remotely sensed retrievals is sensitive to uncertainties in topographic properties that affect incoming and reflected radiation and that are inadequately represented by the RMS error of the elevation. The most essential variables are the cosine of the local solar illumination angle on a slope, the shadows cast by neighboring terrain, and the view factor, the fraction of the overlying hemisphere open to the sky. Comparison of global DEMs with locally available fine‐scale DEMs shows that calculations with the global products consistently underestimate the cosine of the solar angle and underrepresent shadows. Analyzing imagery of Earth's mountains from current and future spaceborne missions requires addressing the uncertainty introduced by errors in DEMs on algorithms that analyze remotely sensed data to produce information about Earth's surface.
Clonal relationship and alcohol consumption-associated mutational signature in synchronous hypopharyngeal tumours and oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Ko Josephine Mun-Yee , Guo Chen , Liu Conghui , Ning Lvwen , Dai Wei , Tao Lihua , Lo Anthony Wing-Ip , Wong Carissa Wing-Yan , Wong Ian Yu-Hong , Chan Fion Siu-Yin , Wong Claudia Lai-Yin , Chan Kwan Kit , Law Tsz Ting , Lee Nikki Pui-Yue , Liu Zhichao , Jiang Haoyao , Li Zhigang , Law Simon , Lung Maria Li
Published: October 2022

Background

The patients with dual oesophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) and hypopharyngeal cancer (HPC) have poor prognosis; their underlying genetic pathogenesis is unclear. We hypothesise that development of synchronous ESCC/HPC depends on multicentricity or independent origin, rather than multifocality due to local or lateral spreading.

Method

Multiple region whole-exome sequencing (M-WES) and clonality analysis were used to assess clonal relationship and spatial inter- or intra-tumour heterogeneity (ITH) in 62 tumour regions from eight dual ESCC/HPC and ten ESCC patients.

Results

All synchronous ESCC/HPC patients had COSMIC 16 mutation signatures, compared to only 40% ESCC in the current study (p = 0.013) and public data set (n = 165, p = 0.003). This alcohol consumption-related mutation signature 16, commonly involved in multiple alcohol-related cancers, was significantly associated with drinking and alcohol metabolism-related ADH1B rs1229984. The mutational landscape and copy number profiles were completely distinct between the two primary tumours; clonality analysis further suggested the two primary tumours shared no or only one clone accompanying independent subclone evolution. M-WES strategy demonstrated higher sensitivity and accuracy for detection of mutational prevalence and the late branch mutations among different regions in the ESCC tumours, compared to traditional sequencing analysis based on single biopsy strategy. Patients with high ITH assessed by cancer cell fraction analysis after M-WES were significantly associated with both relapse and survival.

Conclusions

Our hypothesis-generating M-WES ITH assessment data have implications for prognostication. Collectively, our findings support multicentric independent clonal evolution, the field cancerisation theory, and suggest novel insights implicating an aetiologic role of alcohol metabolism in dual ESCC/HPC carcinogenesis.
Modeling native and seeded Synuclein aggregation and related cellular dysfunctions in dopaminergic neurons derived by a new set of isogenic iPSC lines with SNCA multiplications
Authors: Iannielli Angelo , Luoni Mirko , Giannelli Serena Gea , Ferese Rosangela , Ordazzo Gabriele , Fossati Matteo , Raimondi Andrea , Opazo Felipe , Corti Olga , Prehn Jochen H. M. , Gambardella Stefano , Melki Ronald , Broccoli Vania
Published: October 2022

Triplication of the SNCA gene, encoding the protein alpha-Synuclein (αSyn), is a rare cause of aggressive and early-onset parkinsonism. Herein, we generated iPSCs from two siblings with a recently described compact SNCA gene triplication and suffering from severe motor impairments, psychiatric symptoms, and cognitive deterioration. Using CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing, each SNCA copy was inactivated by targeted indel mutations generating a panel of isogenic iPSCs with a decremental number from 4 down to none of functional SNCA gene alleles. We differentiated these iPSC lines in midbrain dopaminergic (DA) neuronal cultures to characterize αSyn aggregation in native and seeded conditions and evaluate its associated cellular dysfunctions. Utilizing a new nanobody-based biosensor combined with super-resolved imaging, we were able to visualize and measure αSyn aggregates in early DA neurons in unstimulated conditions. Calcium dysregulation and mitochondrial alterations were the first pathological signs detectable in early differentiated DA neuronal cultures. Accelerated αSyn aggregation was induced by exposing neurons to structurally well-characterized synthetic αSyn fibrils. 4xSNCA DA neurons showed the highest vulnerability, which was associated with high levels of oxidized DA and amplified by TAX1BP1 gene disruption. Seeded DA neurons developed large αSyn deposits whose morphology and internal constituents resembled Lewy bodies commonly observed in Parkinson’s disease (PD) patient brain tissues. These findings provide strong evidence that this isogenic panel of iPSCs with SNCA multiplications offers a remarkable cellular platform to investigate mechanisms of PD and validate candidate inhibitors of native and seeded αSyn aggregation.
Runx2 and Runx3 differentially regulate articular chondrocytes during surgically induced osteoarthritis development
Authors: Nagata Kosei , Hojo Hironori , Chang Song Ho , Okada Hiroyuki , Yano Fumiko , Chijimatsu Ryota , Omata Yasunori , Mori Daisuke , Makii Yuma , Kawata Manabu , Kaneko Taizo , Iwanaga Yasuhide , Nakamoto Hideki , Maenohara Yuji , Tachibana Naohiro , Ishikura Hisatoshi , Higuchi Junya , Taniguchi Yuki , Ohba Shinsuke , Chung Ung-il , Tanaka Sakae , Saito Taku
Published: October 2022

The Runt-related transcription factor (Runx) family plays various roles in the homeostasis of cartilage. Here, we examined the role of Runx2 and Runx3 for osteoarthritis development in vivo and in vitro. Runx3-knockout mice exhibited accelerated osteoarthritis following surgical induction, accompanied by decreased expression of lubricin and aggrecan. Meanwhile, Runx2 conditional knockout mice showed biphasic phenotypes: heterozygous knockout inhibited osteoarthritis and decreased matrix metallopeptidase 13 (Mmp13) expression, while homozygous knockout of Runx2 accelerated osteoarthritis and reduced type II collagen (Col2a1) expression. Comprehensive transcriptional analyses revealed lubricin and aggrecan as transcriptional target genes of Runx3, and indicated that Runx2 sustained Col2a1 expression through an intron 6 enhancer when Sox9 was decreased. Intra-articular administration of Runx3 adenovirus ameliorated development of surgically induced osteoarthritis. Runx3 protects adult articular cartilage through extracellular matrix protein production under normal conditions, while Runx2 exerts both catabolic and anabolic effects under the inflammatory condition.
Systematic design of cell membrane coating to improve tumor targeting of nanoparticles
Authors: Liu Lizhi , Pan Dingyi , Chen Sheng , Martikainen Maria-Viola , Kårlund Anna , Ke Jing , Pulkkinen Herkko , Ruhanen Hanna , Roponen Marjut , Käkelä Reijo , Xu Wujun , Wang Jie , Lehto Vesa-Pekka
Published: October 2022

Cell membrane (CM) coating technology is increasingly being applied in nanomedicine, but the entire coating procedure including adsorption, rupture, and fusion is not completely understood. Previously, we showed that the majority of biomimetic nanoparticles (NPs) were only partially coated, but the mechanism underlying this partial coating remains unclear, which hinders the further improvement of the coating technique. Here, we show that partial coating is an intermediate state due to the adsorption of CM fragments or CM vesicles, the latter of which could eventually be ruptured under external force. Such partial coating is difficult to self-repair to achieve full coating due to the limited membrane fluidity. Building on our understanding of the detailed coating process, we develop a general approach for fixing the partial CM coating: external phospholipid is introduced as a helper to increase CM fluidity, promoting the final fusion of lipid patches. The NPs coated with this approach have a high ratio of full coating (~23%) and exhibit enhanced tumor targeting ability in comparison to the NPs coated traditionally (full coating ratio of ~6%). Our results provide a mechanistic basis for fixing partial CM coating towards enhancing tumor accumulation.
Helical ultrastructure of the metalloprotease meprin α in complex with a small molecule inhibitor
Authors: Bayly-Jones Charles , Lupton Christopher J. , Fritz Claudia , Venugopal Hariprasad , Ramsbeck Daniel , Wermann Michael , Jäger Christian , de Marco Alex , Schilling Stephan , Schlenzig Dagmar , Whisstock James C.
Published: October 2022

The zinc-dependent metalloprotease meprin α is predominantly expressed in the brush border membrane of proximal tubules in the kidney and enterocytes in the small intestine and colon. In normal tissue homeostasis meprin α performs key roles in inflammation, immunity, and extracellular matrix remodelling. Dysregulated meprin α is associated with acute kidney injury, sepsis, urinary tract infection, metastatic colorectal carcinoma, and inflammatory bowel disease. Accordingly, meprin α is the target of drug discovery programs. In contrast to meprin β, meprin α is secreted into the extracellular space, whereupon it oligomerises to form giant assemblies and is the largest extracellular protease identified to date (~6 MDa). Here, using cryo-electron microscopy, we determine the high-resolution structure of the zymogen and mature form of meprin α, as well as the structure of the active form in complex with a prototype small molecule inhibitor and human fetuin-B. Our data reveal that meprin α forms a giant, flexible, left-handed helical assembly of roughly 22 nm in diameter. We find that oligomerisation improves proteolytic and thermal stability but does not impact substrate specificity or enzymatic activity. Furthermore, structural comparison with meprin β reveal unique features of the active site of meprin α, and helical assembly more broadly.
Supramolecular photodynamic agents for simultaneous oxidation of NADH and generation of superoxide radical
Authors: Teng Kun-Xu , Niu Li-Ya , Xie Nan , Yang Qing-Zheng
Published: October 2022

Given that Type-I photosensitizers (PSs) have hypoxia tolerance, developing general approaches to prepare Type-I PSs is of great importance, but remains a challenge. Here, we report a supramolecular strategy for the preparation of Type-I photodynamic agents, which simultaneously generate strong oxidizing cationic radicals and superoxide radicals, by introducing electron acceptors to the existing Type-II PSs. As a proof-of-concept, three electron acceptors were designed and co-assembled with a classical PS to produce quadruple hydrogen-bonded supramolecular photodynamic agents. The photo-induced electron transfer from the PS to the adjacent electron acceptor occurs efficiently, leading to the generation of a strong oxidizing PS+•and an anionic radical of the acceptor, which further transfers an electron to oxygen to form O2−•. In addition, these photodynamic agents induce direct photocatalytic oxidation of NADH with a turnover frequency as high as 53.7 min−1, which offers an oxygen-independent mechanism to damage tumors.
Zero energy states clustering in an elemental nanowire coupled to a superconductor
Authors: Contamin Lauriane C. , Jarjat Lucas , Legrand William , Cottet Audrey , Kontos Takis , Delbecq Matthieu R.
Published: October 2022

Nanoelectronic hybrid devices combining superconductors and a one-dimensional nanowire are promising platforms to realize topological superconductivity and its resulting exotic excitations. The bulk of experimental studies in this context are transport measurements where conductance peaks allow to perform a spectroscopy of the low lying electronic states and potentially to identify signatures of the aforementioned excitations. The complexity of the experimental landscape calls for a benchmark in an elemental situation. The present work tackles such a task using an ultra-clean carbon nanotube circuit. Specifically, we show that the combination of magnetic field, weak disorder and superconductivity can lead to states clustering at low energy, as predicted by the random matrix theory predictions. Such a phenomenology is very general and should apply to most platforms trying to realize topological superconductivity in 1D systems, thus calling for alternative probes to reveal it.
Molecular doping of nucleic acids into light emitting crystals driven by multisite-intermolecular interaction
Authors: Jung Woo Hyuk , Park Jin Hyuk , Kim Seokho , Cui Chunzhi , Ahn Dong June
Published: October 2022

We reveal the fundamental understanding of molecular doping of DNAs into organic semiconducting tris (8-hydroxyquinoline) aluminum (Alq3) crystals by varying types and numbers of purines and pyrimidines constituting DNA. Electrostatic, hydrogen bonding, and π-π stacking interactions between Alq3 and DNAs are the major factors affecting the molecular doping. Longer DNAs induce a higher degree of doping due to electrostatic interactions between phosphate backbone and Alq3. Among four bases, single thymine bases induce the multisite interactions of π-π stacking and hydrogen bonding with single Alq3, occurring within a probability of 4.37%. In contrast, single adenine bases form multisite interactions, within lower probability (1.93%), with two-neighboring Alq3. These multisite interactions facilitate the molecular doping into Alq3 particles compared to cytosines or guanines only forming π-π stacking. Thus, photoluminescence and optical waveguide phenomena of crystals were successfully tailored. This discovery should deepen our fundamental understanding of incorporating DNAs into organic semiconducting crystals.
Accommodating unobservability to control flight attitude with optic flow
Authors: de Croon Guido C. H. E. , Dupeyroux Julien J. G. , De Wagter Christophe , Chatterjee Abhishek , Olejnik Diana A. , Ruffier Franck
Published: October 2022

Attitude control is an essential flight capability. Whereas flying robots commonly rely on accelerometers1 for estimating attitude, flying insects lack an unambiguous sense of gravity2,3. Despite the established role of several sense organs in attitude stabilization3–5, the dependence of flying insects on an internal gravity direction estimate remains unclear. Here we show how attitude can be extracted from optic flow when combined with a motion model that relates attitude to acceleration direction. Although there are conditions such as hover in which the attitude is unobservable, we prove that the ensuing control system is still stable, continuously moving into and out of these conditions. Flying robot experiments confirm that accommodating unobservability in this manner leads to stable, but slightly oscillatory, attitude control. Moreover, experiments with a bio-inspired flapping-wing robot show that residual, high-frequency attitude oscillations from flapping motion improve observability. The presented approach holds a promise for robotics, with accelerometer-less autopilots paving the road for insect-scale autonomous flying robots6. Finally, it forms a hypothesis on insect attitude estimation and control, with the potential to provide further insight into known biological phenomena5,7,8 and to generate new predictions such as reduced head and body attitude variance at higher flight speeds9.
An integrated imaging sensor for aberration-corrected 3D photography
Authors: Wu Jiamin , Guo Yuduo , Deng Chao , Zhang Anke , Qiao Hui , Lu Zhi , Xie Jiachen , Fang Lu , Dai Qionghai
Published: October 2022

Planar digital image sensors facilitate broad applications in a wide range of areas1–5, and the number of pixels has scaled up rapidly in recent years2,6. However, the practical performance of imaging systems is fundamentally limited by spatially nonuniform optical aberrations originating from imperfect lenses or environmental disturbances7,8. Here we propose an integrated scanning light-field imaging sensor, termed a meta-imaging sensor, to achieve high-speed aberration-corrected three-dimensional photography for universal applications without additional hardware modifications. Instead of directly detecting a two-dimensional intensity projection, the meta-imaging sensor captures extra-fine four-dimensional light-field distributions through a vibrating coded microlens array, enabling flexible and precise synthesis of complex-field-modulated images in post-processing. Using the sensor, we achieve high-performance photography up to a gigapixel with a single spherical lens without a data prior, leading to orders-of-magnitude reductions in system capacity and costs for optical imaging. Even in the presence of dynamic atmosphere turbulence, the meta-imaging sensor enables multisite aberration correction across 1,000 arcseconds on an 80-centimetre ground-based telescope without reducing the acquisition speed, paving the way for high-resolution synoptic sky surveys. Moreover, high-density accurate depth maps can be retrieved simultaneously, facilitating diverse applications from autonomous driving to industrial inspections.
Clathrin-associated AP-1 controls termination of STING signalling
Authors: Liu Ying , Xu Pengbiao , Rivara Sophie , Liu Chong , Ricci Jonathan , Ren Xuefeng , Hurley James H. , Ablasser Andrea
Published: October 2022

Stimulator of interferon genes (STING) functions downstream of cyclic GMP-AMP synthase in DNA sensing or as a direct receptor for bacterial cyclic dinucleotides and small molecules to activate immunity during infection, cancer and immunotherapy1–10. Precise regulation of STING is essential to ensure balanced immune responses and prevent detrimental autoinflammation11–16. After activation, STING, a transmembrane protein, traffics from the endoplasmic reticulum to the Golgi, where its phosphorylation by the protein kinase TBK1 enables signal transduction17–20. The mechanism that ends STING signalling at the Golgi remains unknown. Here we show that adaptor protein complex 1 (AP-1) controls the termination of STING-dependent immune activation. We find that AP-1 sorts phosphorylated STING into clathrin-coated transport vesicles for delivery to the endolysosomal system, where STING is degraded21. We identify a highly conserved dileucine motif in the cytosolic C-terminal tail (CTT) of STING that, together with TBK1-dependent CTT phosphorylation, dictates the AP-1 engagement of STING. A cryo-electron microscopy structure of AP-1 in complex with phosphorylated STING explains the enhanced recognition of TBK1-activated STING. We show that suppression of AP-1 exacerbates STING-induced immune responses. Our results reveal a structural mechanism of negative regulation of STING and establish that the initiation of signalling is inextricably associated with its termination to enable transient activation of immunity.
Comparative assessment of commercially available wound gels in ex vivo human skin reveals major differences in immune response-modulatory effects
Authors: Seiser S. , Cerbu D. , Gallhofer A. , Matiasek J. , Elbe-Bürger A.
Published: October 2022

Wound healing is a crucial process for maintaining the function of human skin as a protective barrier to pathogens and other external stress factors. Hydrogels—in combination with antimicrobials—are often used, as moist wound care has been widely accepted as standard therapy. Recently, we reported about immune response-modulatory effects of an octenidine-based hydrogel, however little is known about the mechanism of action of other hydrogels including antiseptic molecules or chlorine-based and chlorine-releasing agents, respectively. The aim of this study was the comparative assessment of commercially available wound gels (octenilin®, Prontosan®, Lavanid®, Betadona®, ActiMaris®, Microdacyn60®, VeriforteTMmed) with regard to their effects on the secretion of distinct cytokines (IL-6, IL-8, IL-10), matrix-metalloproteinases as well as their potential to cause alterations in skin structure and apoptosis. Hence, tape-stripped human ex vivo skin biopsies were treated topically with wound gels and cultured for 48 h. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays and an enzyme activity assay of culture supernatants revealed that octenilin® demonstrates significantly broader anti-inflammatory and protease-inhibitory capacities than other wound gels. Further, haematoxylin & eosin as well as caspase-3 staining of treated biopsies showed that octenilin® does not alter skin morphology and shows the least interfering effect on human epidermal cells compared to untreated controls. Overall, this study clearly demonstrates totally different effects for several commercially available hydrogels in our wound model, which gives also new insight into their tissue compatibility and mode of action.
High-resolution micro-CT for 3D infarct characterization and segmentation in mice stroke models
Authors: Pinto Raquel , Matula Jan , Gomez-Lazaro Maria , Sousa Mafalda , Lobo Andrea , Zikmund Tomas , Kaiser Jozef , Gomes João R.
Published: October 2022

Characterization of brain infarct lesions in rodent models of stroke is crucial to assess stroke pathophysiology and therapy outcome. Until recently, the analysis of brain lesions was performed using two techniques: (1) histological methods, such as TTC (Triphenyltetrazolium chloride), a time-consuming and inaccurate process; or (2) MRI imaging, a faster, 3D imaging method, that comes at a high cost. In the last decade, high-resolution micro-CT for 3D sample analysis turned into a simple, fast, and cheaper solution. Here, we successfully describe the application of brain contrasting agents (Osmium tetroxide and inorganic iodine) for high-resolution micro-CT imaging for fine location and quantification of ischemic lesion and edema in mouse preclinical stroke models. We used the intraluminal transient MCAO (Middle Cerebral Artery Occlusion) mouse stroke model to identify and quantify ischemic lesion and edema, and segment core and penumbra regions at different time points after ischemia, by manual and automatic methods. In the transient-ischemic-attack (TIA) mouse model, we can quantify striatal myelinated fibers degeneration. Of note, whole brain 3D reconstructions allow brain atlas co-registration, to identify the affected brain areas, and correlate them with functional impairment. This methodology proves to be a breakthrough in the field, by providing a precise and detailed assessment of stroke outcomes in preclinical animal studies.
A retrospective cohort study comparing differences in 30-day mortality among critically ill patients aged ≥ 70 years treated in European tax-based healthcare systems (THS) versus social health insurance systems
Authors: Wernly Bernhard , Flaatten Hans , Beil Michael , Fjølner Jesper , Bruno Raphael Romano , Artigas Antonio , Pinto Bernardo Bollen , Schefold Joerg C. , Kelm Malte , Sigal Sviri , van Heerden Peter Vernon , Szczeklik Wojciech , Elhadi Muhammed , Joannidis Michael , Rezar Richard , Oeyen Sandra , Wolff Georg , Marsh Brian , Andersen Finn H. , Moreno Rui , Wernly Sarah , Leaver Susannah , Boumendil Ariane , De Lange Dylan W. , Guidet Bertrand , Perings Stefan , Jung Christian
Published: October 2022

In Europe, tax-based healthcare systems (THS) and social health insurance systems (SHI) coexist.
We examined differences in 30-day mortality among critically ill patients aged ≥ 70 years treated in intensive care units in a THS or SHI. Retrospective cohort study. 2406 (THS n = 886; SHI n = 1520) critically ill ≥ 70 years patients in 129 ICUs. Generalized estimation equations with robust standard errors were chosen to create population average adjusted odds ratios (aOR). Data were adjusted for patient-specific variables, organ support and health economic data. The primary outcome was 30-day-mortality. Numerical differences between SHI and THS in SOFA scores (6 ± 3 vs. 5 ± 3; p = 0.002) were observed, but clinical frailty scores were similar (> 4; 17% vs. 14%; p = 0.09). Higher rates of renal replacement therapy (18% vs. 11%; p < 0.001) were found in SHI (aOR 0.61 95%CI 0.40–0.92; p = 0.02). No differences regarding intubation rates (68% vs. 70%; p = 0.33), vasopressor use (67% vs. 67%; p = 0.90) and 30-day-mortality rates (47% vs. 50%; p = 0.16) were found. Mortality remained similar between both systems after multivariable adjustment and sensitivity analyses. The retrospective character of this study. Baseline risk and mortality rates were similar between SHI and THS. The type of health care system does not appear to have played a role in the intensive care treatment of critically ill patients ≥ 70 years with COVID-19 in Europe.
New dating of the Matalascañas footprints provides new evidence of the Middle Pleistocene (MIS 9-8) hominin paleoecology in southern Europe
Authors: Mayoral Eduardo , Duveau Jérémy , Santos Ana , Ramírez Antonio Rodríguez , Morales Juan A. , Díaz-Delgado Ricardo , Rivera-Silva Jorge , Gómez-Olivencia Asier , Díaz-Martínez Ignacio
Published: October 2022

Hominin footprints were recently discovered at Matalascañas (Huelva; South of Iberian Peninsula). They were dated thanks to a previous study in deposits of the Asperillo cliff to 106 ± 19 ka, Upper Pleistocene, making Neandertals the most likely track-makers. In this paper, we report new Optically Stimulated Luminescence dating that places the hominin footprints surface in the range of 295.8 ± 17 ka (MIS 9-MIS 8 transition, Middle Pleistocene). This new age implies that the possible track-makers are individuals more likely from the Neandertal evolutionary lineage. Regardless of the taxon attributed to the Matalascañas footprints, they supplement the existing partial fossil record for the European Middle Pleistocene Hominins being notably the first palaeoanthropological evidence (hominin skeleton or footprints) from the MIS 9 and MIS 8 transition discovered in the Iberian Peninsula, a moment of climatic evolution from warm to cool. Thus, the Matalascañas footprints represent a crucial record for understanding human occupations in Europe in the Pleistocene.
Features of Portable XRF Devices and Their Safe Handling
Authors: Yoshii H.
Published: October 2022

Recently, the use of portable XRF instruments has been expanding. Portable XRF devices include plug-in types that require a power source and handheld types that are battery-powered and can be carried anywhere. In this chapter, the features of these portable XRF devices will be described in comparison with floor-standing devices and benchtop devices. Although the handheld type of equipment is very convenient, it is advisable to carefully consider whether it is really necessary to use it as the user may be exposed to radiation depending on the shape and condition of the sample. Considering these points, the optimum device selection according to the characteristics of the sample will be discussed.
Chemical Analysis of Natural Waters Using Portable X-Ray Fluorescence Spectrometry
Authors: Kipnis Evan L. , Lee Drake B. , Bowen Brenda B.
Published: October 2022

The application of portable X-ray fluorescence spectrometry (pXRF) for the analysis of natural waters offers an interesting opportunity for fast, non-destructive characterization of solutes in lakes, streams, groundwater, and more. In contrast to other environmental materials such as rocks, soils, and sediments, to date very little published work has explored the methodological developments to optimize the sample preparation, instrumentation configurations, and calibration methods for water sample analyses. This chapter reviews advances in the application of pXRF to quantify water chemistry and offers suggested considerations for how to apply these methods. Also presented is a novel application of calibrating X-ray fluorescence spectra to quantify fluid density. Significant opportunities still exist to expand on previous to advance methodology of portable X-ray fluorescence spectrometry for water samples.
Bio-based and Nanostructured Hybrids for Green and Active Food Packaging
Authors: Efthymiou Maria-Nefeli , Tsouko Erminta , Vlassi Eleni , Papagiannopoulos Aristeidis , Koutinas Apostolis , Pispas Stergios
Published: October 2022

Biopolymer-based food packaging is a rapidly growing market driven by the need for long-term global sustainability combined with technological innovations and better performing markets for consumers and businesses. The transition to a low-carbon economy should rely on the utilization of renewable resources and green manufacturing involving novel green technologies and bioprocessing to provide clean energy, green chemicals, biodegradable and safe products of high quality and functionality. Biopolymer nanostructures could upgrade the bio-based food packaging sector. The synergies of hybrid moieties tailor the thermal, mechanical and barrier properties of films, providing multifunctionality. This chapter includes a detailed overview of the state-of-the-art regarding the application of natural, bio-based and biodegradable polymeric materials in food packaging. It covers a wide range of promising biopolymers that are currently used for the formulation of innovative and green food packaging films. Strategies for film preparations are presented emphasizing current challenges and opportunities. The chapter includes the biopolymers used in active food packaging and blends with inorganic nanoparticles. The types and mechanisms of activity of the biofilms are presented and the role of the embedded nanoparticles is analyzed. This chapter may serve as a guide for advances in the design and optimization of new active bio-packaging in food technology.
Nano-engineered Sensors for Food Processing
Authors: Adetunji Charles Oluwaseun , Ogundolie Frank Abimbola , Ajiboye Modupe Doris , Mathew John Tsado , Inobeme Abel , Dauda Wadzani Palnam , Ghazanfar Shakira , Titilayo Olotu , Olaniyan Olugbemi Tope , Ijabadeniyi Oluwatosin Ademola , Ajayi Oluope Olufemi , Adetunji Juliana Bunmi
Published: October 2022

Food safety today is a major concern for both food processing industries and consumers in general. One of the challenges facing this industry is timely and cost-effective methods or technologies for easy identification of contaminated packaged foods. Over the years, constant efforts have been increasingly utilized to ensure better and improved packaging of processed foods. Nanotechnology is fast becoming a veritable option for ensuring that processed food packaging maintains its variety of functions and that quality is well preserved. Smart and/or active packaging of products that are nano-engineered with sensors has been increasingly used to overcome these challenges. These packaging technologies ensure that there is minimal food waste, enabling food quality checks, providing timely information about the status of packaged foods, improving overall food safety and increasing the shelf life of foods through the use of nanoparticle-based biosensors that are highly sensitive.
Pt nanoparticles supported on Nb-modified TiO2 as an efficient heterogeneous catalyst for the conversion of cellulose to light bioalcohols
Authors: Su Zerui , Zhang Jian , Lu Shiyao , Xiao Feng-Shou
Published: October 2022

SMSI-introduced Pt/NbTi catalysts with abundant acid sites are very active for the hydrogenolysis of cellulose into light bioalcohols.
Long-range DNA interactions: inter-molecular G-quadruplexes and their potential biological relevance
Authors: Liano Denise , Monti Ludovica , Chowdhury Souroprobho , Raguseo Federica , Di Antonio Marco
Published: October 2022

Intermolecular G-quadruplex structures can form within distal region of genomic DNA, contributing to chromatin looping. Herein, we discuss recent evidence supporting formation of iG4s in living cells and their potential biological function.
Enhanced electron transfer by In doping in SnO2 for efficient CO2 electroreduction to C1 products
Authors: Zhao Xin , Wang Yuchao , Zhan Longsheng , Liu Mengjie , Wu Jiao , Deng Danni , Jiang Jiabi , Zheng Xinran , Xiong Xiang , Lei Yongpeng
Published: October 2022

In-doped SnO2 nanoparticles with enhanced electron transfer from Sn species to In were synthesized. The maximum FEC1 was 96.46% at −0.75 V and JC1 reached −20.12 mA cm−2 at −0.95 V.
Visible-light-driven photocatalyst-free deoxygenative alkylation of imines with alcohols
Authors: Zhang Wei , Ning Shen , Li Yi , Wu Xuesong
Published: October 2022

Upon easy access and direct photoexcitation of xanthate anions, visible-light-driven deoxygenative alkylation of imines with a wide variety of alcohols has been achievedviaa phosphine-assisted one-pot protocol, without any photocatalysts.
A novel geo-photocatalyst, an iron-containing layered clay mineral, for photocatalytic H2 evolution from water
Authors: Phuekphong Alisa , Hayakawa Takayuki , Ogawa Makoto
Published: October 2022

An iron-containing layered clay mineral was discovered as a novel geo-photocatalyst found in nature for hydrogen evolution from water.
Synthesis and characterization of cyclo-pentazolate salts of iron(iii) and aluminum(iii)
Authors: Chen Lei , Yang Chen , Hu Haoran , Shi Lei , Zhang Chong , Sun Chengguo , Gao Chao , Du Yang , Hu Bingcheng
Published: October 2022

Two trivalent metal pentazolate salts, namely, Fe(H2O)6(N5)3·9H2O (1) and Al(H2O)6(N5)3·9H2O (2) are prepared, and the coordination environment of the cyclo-N5− anions is discussed in detail.
Computational mining of endohedral C70 electrides: tri-metal alkali and alkaline-earth encapsulation
Authors: Sa Baisheng , Yang Zhanlin , Zhang Ying , Si Yitao , Li Hengyi , Zhu Changfeng , Wen Cuilian , Wu Bo , Yu Tao
Published: October 2022

Based on the atoms in molecules analysis, electron localization functions, and nonlinear optical property analysis, M3@C70 (M = Li, Be, Mg, Ca) fullerenes are identified as electrides.
Joint electric and magnetic beam deflection experiments and quantum chemical studies of MSn12clusters (M = Al, Ga, In): on the interplay of geometric structure and magnetic properties in nanoalloys
Authors: Rivic Filip , Lehr Andreas , Fuchs Thomas M. , Schäfer Rolf
Published: October 2022

Cold MSn12nanoalloy clusters (M = Al, Ga, In) have been studied in combined electric and magnetic beam deflection experiments. By a quantum chemical approach the correlation between geometric structure and magnetic properties has been elucidated.
Quantitative accuracy improvement of laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy by a modified corner-cutting method for continuum background removal
Authors: Hu Zhenlin , Nie Junfei , Chen Feng , Zhang Deng , Ouyang Zhiyong , Liu Yuanchao , Chu Yanwu , Guo Lianbo
Published: October 2022

We proposed a modified corner-cutting method for continuum background removal in laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy.
Synthesis, antioxidant and antitumoral activity of new 5′-arylchalcogenyl-3′-N-(E)-feruloyl-3′, 5′-dideoxy-amino-thymidine (AFAT) derivatives
Authors: Leal Julliano G. , Piccoli Bruna Candia , Oliveira Cláudia Sirlene , D’Avila da Silva Fernanda , Omage Folorunsho Bright , Rocha João Batista Teixeira da , Sonego Mariana Souza , Segatto Natália Vieira , Seixas Fabiana Kommling , Collares Tiago Veiras , da Silva Rafael Santos , Sarturi Joelma Menegazzi , Dornelles Luciano , Faustino Maria Amparo F. , Rodrigues Oscar E. D.
Published: October 2022

A new multitarget arylchalcogenyl zidovudine derivative is disclosed. The compounds showed a prominent antioxidant and antitumoral activity with no overt sign of toxicity for in vivo evaluations.
Mechanically robust biomass-derived carbonaceous foam for efficient solar water evaporation
Authors: Ma Sainan , Wu Yuhao , Lv Ruiling , Gao Xiang , Wang Qianqian
Published: October 2022

The biomass-derived carbonaceous foam with excellent mechanical strength and evaporation efficiency has promising potential for practical interfacial solar water treatment.
Self-trapped excitons in soft semiconductors
Authors: Tan Jianbin , Li Delong , Zhu Jiaqi , Han Na , Gong Youning , Zhang Yupeng
Published: October 2022

In this review, the possibilities for the characterization and tuning of STEs through multiple degrees of freedom are summarized.
Role of heteroatom-doping in enhancing catalytic activities and the stability of single-atom catalysts for oxygen reduction and oxygen evolution reactions
Authors: Zheng Tao , Han Xiao , Wang Jincheng , Xia Zhenhai
Published: October 2022

New design principles and activity descriptors for SAC-based S-doped catalysts for clean energy conversion are provided. Strategies for developing highly active SAC-based S-doped catalysts for fuel cells and metal–air batteries are explored.
Realizing a high voltage lithium metal battery in ether-based electrolyte by regulating the cathode electrolyte interphase
Authors: Liu Xu , Yang Yujie , Li Yawen , Wu Lanqing , Yu Huaqing , Zhang Jingwei , Liu Yushan , Zhao Qing
Published: October 2022

The tetrahydrofuran electrolyte with addition of LiNO3enables the operation of Li||LiNi0.80Co0.10Mn0.10O2batteries by regulating the cathode electrolyte interphase.
Two-Year Longitudinal Evaluation of Community Aphasia Center Participation on Linguistic, Functional Communication, and Quality of Life Measures Across People With a Range of Aphasia Presentations
Authors: Edmonds Lisa A. , Morgan Jodi
Published: October 2022

Purpose:

The purpose of this study was to evaluate potential changes on a hierarchy of language tasks and measures of functional communication and quality of life in a group of people with aphasia (PWA) who attended a community aphasia center for 2 years. A secondary purpose was to determine whether there were any predictors of change.

Method:

Twenty-seven PWA who attended Brooks Rehabilitation Aphasia Center (BRAC) were evaluated on an aphasia battery, confrontation naming, and structured discourse in addition to completing self-reported measures of functional communication and quality of life at three time points: before attending BRAC and after 1 (
N
= 27) and 2 (
N
= 20) years of BRAC participation. Twenty-six communication partners who communicated regularly with the PWA completed a questionnaire about their functional communication at the same time points. A mixed linear model was conducted for all dependent variables to determine change over time. Tau-b correlations were conducted between demographic and aphasia-related variables and difference scores for outcome measures that exhibited significant improvements.

Results:

At 1-year testing, significant improvements were observed on the aphasia battery, object and action naming, and all self- and communication partner–reported measures. At 2-year testing, all improvements were maintained except for the self-reported measure of functional communication. Structured discourse showed increases in average number of words, percentage of meaningful words and utterances, and efficiency of meaningful word production after 2 years. No significant correlations were observed between predictor variables and difference scores.

Conclusions:

Participation in aphasia centers can result in significant changes in language, functional communication, and quality of life in people with chronic aphasia. These findings support the importance of aphasia centers in the continuum of care for PWA.

Supplemental Material:

https://doi.org/10.23641/asha.21313689
Systematic Review of Literature on Speech Intelligibility and Classroom Acoustics in Elementary Schools
Authors: Murgia Silvia , Webster JosseMia , Cutiva Lady Catherine Cantor , Bottalico Pasquale
Published: October 2022

Purpose:

Good verbal signals and low background noise are key factors for all children to maximize understanding of what is being taught. Classroom shape, surroundings, and even furnishings change how the environment “sounds” and how speech is “heard” in the classroom. Classroom acoustics is perhaps one of the most important, but often least considered, factors when designing a classroom. This systematic review aimed to characterize the relationship between intelligibility of speech and room acoustics in elementary schools based on the available evidence.

Method:

Eligible studies were identified using two computerized databases: PubMed and Scopus. In total, 23 publications met our inclusion criteria: (a) Participants must have been from elementary schools, (b) acoustic characterization of the classroom must have been provided, (c) intelligibility tests must have been performed, and (d) articles were written in English.

Results:

After identifying the parameters and tests used to quantify the intelligibility of speech, the speech intelligibility scores were analyzed in relation with acoustical parameters found in the articles, particularly signal-to-noise ratio and speech transmission index. Our results highlighted the negative effect on intelligibility associated with poor transmission of the speech and poor classroom acoustics caused by long reverberation times and high background noise.

Conclusion:

Good classroom acoustics is needed to improve speech intelligibility and, therefore, increase children's academic success.
An approach to targeting cryptocurrency mining loads for energy efficiency enhancement
Authors: Hajiaghapour‐Moghimi Mehran , Azimi Hosseini Kamyar , Hajipour Ehsan , Vakilian Mehdi
Published: October 2022

In recent years, the mining of cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin has attracted much global attention due to the simplicity and high profitability of this business, especially in countries with low electricity rates. The process of cryptocurrency mining using cryptocurrency mining devices requires a significant amount of computing power. This industry, which is increasingly growing in energy and carbon emissions, can cause environmental concerns. Common ways to reduce this amount of energy consumption are to prohibit mining and charge these loads at a higher electricity rate; however, these solution methods are not feasible and applicable in many countries. This paper presents an energy efficiency program to persuade the customers to mine cryptocurrency using high‐efficient cryptocurrency mining devices (CMDs), including informative, regulation, and financial policy instruments. This energy efficiency approach suggests a standard, if implemented, would ban the application of inefficient CMDs, and would encourage the cryptocurrency miners to improve the profitability of their business with high‐efficient CMDs through a penalty‐reward strategy. The performance of this energy efficiency program is studied through an analysis of data gathered from different CMDs used in Iran. The effectiveness of this suggested program is proved through its sufficient incentives for miners using high‐efficient CMDs.