bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A model-based analysis of the health impacts of COVID-19 disruptions to primary cervical screening by time since last screen for current and future disruptions
Authors: Burger Emily A , de Kok Inge MCM , O'Mahony James F , Rebolj Matejka , Jansen Erik EL , de Bondt Daniel D , Killen James , Hanley Sharon J , Castanon Alejandra , Regan Mary Caroline , Kim Jane J , Canfell Karen , Smith Megan A
Published: October 2022

We evaluated how temporary disruptions to primary cervical cancer (CC) screening services may differentially impact women due to heterogeneity in their screening history and test modality. We used three CC models to project the short- and long-term health impacts assuming an underlying primary screening frequency (i.e., 1, 3, 5, or 10 yearly) under three alternative COVID-19-related screening disruption scenarios (i.e., 1-, 2-, or 5-year delay) versus no delay in the context of both cytology-based and human papillomavirus (HPV)-based screening. Models projected a relative increase in symptomatically detected cancer cases during a 1-year delay period that was 38% higher (Policy1-Cervix), 80% higher (Harvard), and 170% higher (MISCAN-Cervix) for underscreened women whose last cytology screen was 5 years prior to the disruption period compared with guidelines-compliant women (i.e., last screen 3 years prior to disruption). Over a woman’s lifetime, temporary COVID-19-related delays had less impact on lifetime risk of developing CC than screening frequency and test modality; however, CC risks increased disproportionately the longer time had elapsed since a woman’s last screen at the time of the disruption. Excess risks for a given delay period were generally lower for HPV-based screeners than for cytology-based screeners. Our independent models predicted that the main drivers of CC risk were screening frequency and screening modality, and the overall impact of disruptions from the pandemic on CC outcomes may be small. However, screening disruptions disproportionately affect underscreened women, underpinning the importance of reaching such women as a critical area of focus, regardless of temporary disruptions.
“E is for Ernest who choked on a peach”
Authors: Novaković Nikola
Published: October 2022

In Edward Gorey’s numerous scenes of breakfasts, lunches, dinners, and afternoon teas, food and drink often feature with more or less prominence and are sometimes even found in the titles of his books, such as in The Fatal Lozenge (1960) or The Unknown Vegetable (1995). Their seemingly innocent appearance is often tied to violence or death: a head is discovered in a breadbox, a woman murders her husband by lacing his tea with atropine, a boy dies of exposure after being punished for “splashing his soup”, and several characters are consumed by more or less fantastic creatures. And yet, throughout all such gruesome events, Gorey’s characteristically playful and absurd humour adds levity to scenes of food-related death, misery, downfall, and even murder. Whether much attention is drawn to such events (such as in The Unknown Vegetable, where the entire story revolves around the discovery of a giant turnip-like vegetable that leads to a woman being buried alive) or whether they are merely mentioned in offhanded comments, Gorey couches them in a frame of the ridiculous and the nonsensical. It is therefore the aim of this paper to explore how Gorey achieves this curious combination of the grotesque and the humorous in scenes revolving around food, and how this approach extends to a general confusion of tone in his darkly funny, seriocomic creations in which any manner of horror may be lurking in peaches, cakes, crackers, boiled turnips, a recipe for fudge, a family picnic, or under a haunted tea cosy.
Trichoscopic Overlap of Trichotillomania Superseding Alopecia Areata: A Report of Two Cases
Authors: Sukanya G , Sangaiah Sivaramakrishnan , Vignesh NR , Kulkarni Ojas Dipak
Published: October 2022

Trichoscopy is a non invasive tool useful for diagnosis of dermatoses on hair bearing skin. Alopecia Areata (AA) is a common non scarring alopecia with varying aetiologies including autoimmune and genetic factors. Trichotillomania (TTM) is a psychocutaneous dermatosis characterised by compulsive hair plucking leading to hair loss at accessible sites. Trichoscopy can be used for diagnosing both these dermatoses at an early stage due to presence of distinct trichoscopic signs. Authors hereby intend to report two cases presenting with a trichoscopic overlap of trichotillomania superseding alopecia areata. First case was of a 27-year-old male presented with patchy hair loss for three months over scalp. On clinical examination, the case appeared to be of AA with involvement of three well-defined patches on the scalp, though trichoscopy suggested an overlap of AA with TTM. On probing patient gave a history of stressors predominantly of unemployment due to Coronavirus Disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic but denied the history of compulsive hair pulling, indicating that TTM must have superseded patches AA. The second case was a 20-year-old female presenting with a single patch of hair loss over mid scalp. There was atrophy in the centre and easy pluckability at borders. Trichoscopy yet again suggested an overlap of AA with TTM. The patch of AA was persistent in the patient giving rise to depression and anxiety which had probably provoked hair plucking. TTM and AA are two distinct clinical entities but can be simultaneously present in patients. Trichoscopy can be indeed helpful for diagnosis in such cases. Treatment modalities should therefore address both these conditions in such cases for better outcomes.
Intrathecal Morphine as an Alternative for Epidural Analgesia for Postoperative Pain in a Resource Constrained Set-up: A Case Series Anil Kumar Narayan
Authors: Narayan Anil Kumar , Shandilya Ajay S , Krishna Harini
Published: October 2022

Management of postoperative pain is a central piece in the jigsaw of postoperative care. This article reports a series of three patients who were managed with intrathecal morphine to provide postoperative analgesia, for major abdominal surgeries. Morphine was injected intrathecally before the induction of anaesthesia. The patients were pain free postoperatively, required minimal intravenous opioids on the first postoperative day. There was no incidence of postoperative nausea or vomiting, pruritus and respiratory depression. Intrathecal morphine improves the quality of postoperative analgesia, there is a reduction in pain scores in the first 24 hours after surgery and the need for rescue analgesia with intravenous opioids is less. Intrathecal morphine can be used as an alternative to continuous epidural analgesia in early postoperative period.
Emergency Dynamic Central Venous Cannulation in Preterm Neonates- A Case Series
Authors: Saravanakumar S , Sridharan S , Balamurugan RJ
Published: October 2022

Neonatal venous cannulation is one of the challenges faced by Anaesthesiologists in routine practice. Neonatal cannulation is extremely difficult and time consuming and it has become an inevitable procedure in neonatal intensive care unit, because of the small vessel diameter and sometimes it is impossible to differentiate between artery and vein. Routinely umbilical vein, scalp vein and peripherally inserted central catheters cannulation are done during initial neonatal period. Central vein cannulation is needed in sick neonates for nutrition, antibiotics, venous sampling, and inotropic support and enables haemodynamics monitoring. Even with the point of care ultrasound, neonatal cannulation is technically challenging in well-experienced hands. Cannulation in a preterm neonate is highly demanding and nightmarish for all intensivists. The present case series aimed to show the successful placement of ultrasound guided supraclavicular subclavian cannulation in a very low birth preterm (less than 1500 gm) in three septic neonates. All three cannulations were done bedside in Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) with close monitoring of heart rate, pulse oximeter and electrocardiogram. Venipuncture was done under ultrasound guidance. After identifying the anatomic landmarks, subclavian cannulation was done using Seldinger technique. Subclavian cannulation was preferred because of easy accessibility, comfortable fixation and low infection rate
METACOGNIÇÃO E TECNOLOGIAS DIGITAIS NO ENSINO DE CIÊNCIAS:
Authors: Machado Marly Stephany Magalhães , Cleophas Maria Das Graças
Published: October 2022

A partir das transformações acarretadas pelas tecnologias na educação, torna-se imprescindível refletir sobre o que se aprende. Portanto, a questão deste estudo centrou-se em: qual o atual panorama e estrutura conceitual das publicações científicas inseridas na temática metacognição e tecnologias digitais no ensino de ciências? O objetivo visou identificar as principais abordagens adotadas no campo da metacognição e tecnologias digitais no ensino de ciências, partindo da análise bibliométrica no recorte de 2000-2020. Para tanto, utilizou-se a base de dados Web of Science e, obtiveram-se 97 artigos, investigados sob análise descritiva e relacional. Identificaram-se quatro abordagens: estratégias metacognitivas, autorregulação, projetos e experiências e, intervenção. Verificou-se a tendência na produção de pesquisas mistas e empíricas. Espera-se que este estudo contribua para o entendimento quanto ao desenvolvimento científico no contexto da metacognição e das tecnologias digitais no ensino de ciências, bem como levantar lacunas que permitam a abertura de espaços para futuras discussões.
CONTRIBUIÇÕES AGROECOLÓGICAS
Authors: Silveira Dieison Prestes da , Golle Diego Pascoal
Published: October 2022

Na contemporaneidade, trabalhar assuntos voltados a temática ambiental pode refletir em uma formação humana, crítica e com viés social. Diante disso, o presente trabalho busca analisar a contribuição da agroecologia, enquanto prática sociocultural, como uma vivência, capaz de auxiliar na construção de conhecimentos sobre a temática ambiental, com alunos do ensino fundamental de uma escola estadual do estado do Rio Grande do Sul. A metodologia adotada consistiu em uma pesquisa qualitativa, por meio de uma pesquisa-ação. Os sujeitos da pesquisa foram 21 alunos do sexto ano de uma escola estadual do município de Tupanciretã – RS. Por meio da Análise de Conteúdo foi possível verificar que os alunos apresentaram novos conhecimentos, pois a análise de similitude evidenciou uma ampliação dos conhecimentos dos alunos participantes do estudo.
EQUAÇÃO CIVILIZATÓRIA: GÊNESE E ESTRUTURA
Authors: Grawieski Civiero Paula Andrea , Bazzo Walter Antonio
Published: October 2022

Discutimos neste artigo os resultados de uma pesquisa de pós-doutoramento, processando o aprofundamento teórico acerca da gênese e estrutura da equação civilizatória. A partir da compreensão de que o processo civilizatório contemporâneo se desenvolve em um arcabouço tecnocientífico, complexo e dinâmico, estabelecemos uma ferramenta de análise que chamamos de equação civilizatória. Ao considerar essa discussão primordial no âmago da sociedade, tomamos por objetivo aprofundar os conceitos e esclarecer o que se pretende com tal equação. Para tal propósito, a metodologia da investigação foi qualitativa e utilizou da análise textual discursiva, por meio de um inventário documental. Após as análises e meta-reflexões tecemos considerações que nos possibilitaram inferir que a equação civilizatória não representa apenas uma metáfora para entender o processo civilizatório, mas sim, de uma possibilidade de categoria de análise do real.
A Common Fixed-point Theorem of Mappings on S-metric Spaces
Authors: Duraj Siditë , Liftaj Silvana
Published: October 2022

Fixed Point Theory is developed during the years by generalizing various types of contractions or changing the axioms of metric spaces. The S-metric spaces extend the concept of metric spaces since the determination of axioms of S-metric are more general. In this paper, we prove a common fixed-point theorem of two mappings in S-metric space. The theorem uses an implicit contractive condition, based on functions of class F6.  With the change of the form of the functions of class F6 , we obtain different results for common fixed points of two functions.
Reducing the Carbon Footprint by Cultivating and Consuming Spirulina: A Mini-review
Authors: Parthiban Meena S. , A. Manimekalan
Published: October 2022

Increased carbon emissions have increased global warming resulting in tremendous changes in the climate factor. Climate change has brought drought, cyclones, floods, tsunami, irregular             rainfall patterns threatening food security, cleanwater, etc. To reduce the impacts of global warming that are detrimental to humanity and the biosphere, global nations have agreed to               reduce carbon emissions and go for a low carbon footprint in all industrial and commercial activities. This study analyzes the cultivation and consuming spirulina (Arthospira platensis) as a win-win situation for sustainable development in terms of GDP as well as carbon capture &storage (CCS).
Effect of Foliar Application of Iron (Fe) and Zinc (Zn) on Growth, Yield and Quality of Strawberry (Fragaria ananassa) Cv. Winter Dawn
Authors: Bopparaju Aruna Kumari , Deepanshu . , Mishra Saket , Bahadur Vijay
Published: October 2022

An experiment on strawberry (Fragaria ananassa) cv. winter dawn was conducted during December 2021 to April 2022, in Horticulture Research Farm of Horticulture Department, Naini Agricultural Institute, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology and Sciences, Prayagraj (U.P) India. The experiment was performed on strawberry variety of winter dawn. There are 16 treatments, viz., T0 (water spray),T1(Zn 0.2%+Fe 0.2%),T2 ( Zn 0.4%+Fe 0.4%),T3 ( Zn 0.6%+Fe 0.6%),T4(Zn 0.2%+Fe 0.4%),T5 (Zn 0.2%+Fe 0.6%)T6(Zn 0.4%+Fe 0.2%)T7 (Zn 0.4%+Fe 0.6%)T8(Zn 0.6%+Fe0.4%)T9(Zn 0.6%+Fe 0.2%) ,T10 (Zn 0.2%),T11(Zn 0.4%),T12(Zn 0.6%) ,T13(Fe 0.2%),T14 (Fe 0.4%),T15 (Fe 0.6%) replicated thrice in Randomized Block Design (RBD). The results of the present investigation, regarding the cultivation of strawberry with different concentrations of Zinc (Zn) and Iron (Fe) found as the best option for higher productivity whereas the treatment T3 with concentration of Zn (0.6% )+ Fe (0.6%) showed the best result in terms of plant height at 30 days to transplanting  (8.1 cm), 60 days to transplanting  (15.4 cm) and 90 days to transplanting (22.1 cm), Number of leaves plant-1 at 30 days to transplanting  (7.3), 60 days to transplanting  (21.3) and 90 days to transplanting  (27.4), Plant Spread (27.2 cm), runner plant-1 (5.9), yield/ha (6.0 t), fruit length (4.3 cm), fruit weight (29.3 g), fruit diameter (3.4 cm), TSS (9.3o Brix),  showed the best results in terms of vegetative growth, yield, quality.  Hence the T3 Zn (0.6%) + Fe (0.6%) is best suited for the farmers in terms of growth, yield, quality and net returns.
Neurocognitive Outcomes at Age 2 Years After Neonatal Hypoglycemia in a Cohort of Participants From the hPOD Randomized Trial
Authors: Edwards Taygen , Alsweiler Jane M. , Gamble Greg D. , Griffith Rebecca , Lin Luling , McKinlay Christopher J. D. , Rogers Jenny A. , Thompson Benjamin , Wouldes Trecia A. , Harding Jane E.
Published: October 2022

Importance

Neonatal hypoglycemia is common, but its association with later neurodevelopment is uncertain.

Objective

To examine associations between neonatal hypoglycemia and neurocognitive outcomes at corrected age 2 years.

Design, Setting, and Participants

Exploratory cohort analysis of the Hypoglycaemia Prevention With Oral Dextrose (hPOD) randomized clinical trial was conducted. The trial recruited participants from January 9, 2015, to May 5, 2019, with follow-up between January 26, 2017, and July 31, 2021. Infants were recruited from 9 maternity hospitals in New Zealand and assessed at home or in a research clinic. Children born late preterm and at term at risk of neonatal hypoglycemia but without evidence of acute or imminent illness in the first hour after birth were screened and treated to maintain blood glucose concentrations greater than or equal to 47 mg/dL.

Exposures

Hypoglycemia was defined as any blood glucose concentration less than 47 mg/dL, recurrent as 3 or more episodes, and severe as less than 36 mg/dL.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Neurologic examination and tests of development (Bayley III) and executive function. The primary outcome was neurosensory impairment (any of the following: blindness, deafness, cerebral palsy, developmental delay, or executive function total score worse than 1.5 SD below the mean).

Results

A total of 1197 of 1321 (91%) eligible children were assessed at a mean of corrected age 24 months; 616 (52%) were male. Compared with the normoglycemia group, children who experienced hypoglycemia were more likely to have neurosensory impairment (111 [23%] vs 125 [18%]; adjusted risk ratio [aRR], 1.28; 95% CI, 1.01-1.60), particularly if they experienced severe episodes (30 [28%] vs 125 [18%]; aRR, 1.68; 95% CI, 1.20-2.36), but not recurrent episodes (12 [19%] vs 125 [18%]; aRR, 1.06; 95% CI, 0.63-1.80). The risk of cognitive, language, or motor delay was similar between groups, but children who experienced hypoglycemia had lower Bayley-III composite cognitive (adjusted mean difference [aMD], −1.48; 95% CI, −2.79 to −0.18) and motor scores (aMD, −2.05; 95% CI, −3.30 to −0.79).

Conclusions and Relevance

In children born at risk of hypoglycemia but otherwise well, those who experienced neonatal hypoglycemia were more likely to have neurosensory impairment at corrected age 2 years, with higher risks after severe episodes. Further research is required to determine causality.
Mitochondrial network expansion and dynamic redistribution during islet morphogenesis in zebrafish larvae
Authors: Freudenblum Julia , Meyer Dirk , Kimmel Robin A.
Published: October 2022

Mitochondria, organelles critical for energy production, modify their shape and location in response to developmental state and metabolic demands. Mitochondria are altered in diabetes, but the mechanistic basis is poorly defined, due to difficulties in assessing mitochondria within an intact organism. Here, we use in vivo imaging in transparent zebrafish larvae to demonstrate filamentous, interconnected mitochondrial networks within islet cells. Mitochondrial movements highly resemble what has been reported for human islet cells in vitro, showing conservation in behaviour across species and cellular context. During islet development, mitochondrial content increases with emergence of cell motility, and mitochondria disperse within fine protrusions. Overall, this work presents quantitative analysis of mitochondria within their native environment and provides insights into mitochondrial behaviour during organogenesis.
Off‐Stoichiometry Quaternary Heusler‐Like Semiconductors with Magnetism and Disorder
Authors: Ruan Yurong , Zhong Ke , Zhang Ying , Zhang Fang , Zhang Yubo , Zhang Wenqing
Published: October 2022

The theoretical finding of a large group of intrinsic off‐stoichiometry quaternary Heusler‐like semiconductors with mixing and tunable occupation of 4c‐4d atomic sites, such as FexCoyTiSb with non‐integer x + y > 1 are reported. Those semiconductors are never reported before, and they radically break the well‐recognized 18‐ (or 24‐) valence electron counting (VEC) rule and the exact 4c‐ (or both 4c‐ and 4d‐) atomic sites stoichiometry for the traditional quaternary half‐Heusler (or full‐Heusler) semiconductors. Physically, the novel semiconductors can be designed by following a d‐orbital‐determined compensation rule. The extra atoms fill in the tetrahedral vacancies of the half‐Heusler structure, introduce symmetry‐constrained d orbitals near the Fermi level, large crystal field splitting, and then form a bandgap at appropriate fractional compositions, which leads to an exact compensated electronic structure. The newly established compensation rule reveals an abundant phase space of the quaternary Heusler‐like (2x + 3y = 3 for VECY+Z = 9, 2x + 3y = 4 for VECY+Z = 8, and 2x + 3y = 5 for VECY+Z = 7) compounds. High‐throughput screenings reveal many new FexCoyYZ semiconductors, all of which possess strong disorder, weak magnetism, spin compensation, and wide composition‐range tunability. The intertwined orders may either find functionalities surpassing the existing materials or give rise to new potential applications.
Mapping of Spatiotemporal Auricular Electrophysiological Signals Reveals Human Biometric Clusters
Authors: Huang Qingyun , Wu Cong , Hou Senlin , Yao Kuanming , Sun Hui , Wang Yufan , Chen Yikai , Law Junhui , Yang Mingxiao , Chan Ho‐yin , Roy Vellaisamy A. L. , Zhao Yuliang , Wang Dong , Song Enming , Yu Xinge , Lao Lixing , Sun Yu , Li Wen Jung
Published: October 2022

Underneath the ear skin there are rich vascular network and sensory nerve branches. Hence, the 3D mapping of auricular electrophysiological signals can provide new biomedical perspectives. However, it is still extremely challenging for current sensing techniques to cover the entire ultra‐curved auricle. Here, a 3D graphene‐based ear‐conformable sensing device with embedded and distributed 3D electrodes for full‐auricle physiological monitoring is reported. As a proof‐of‐concept, spatiotemporal auricular electrical skin resistance (AESR) mapping is demonstrated for the first time, and human subject‐specific AESR distributions are observed. From the data of more than 30 ears (both right and left ears), the auricular region‐specific AESR changes after cycling exercise are observed in 98% of the tests and are clustered into four groups via machine learning‐based data analyses. Correlations of AESR with heart rate and blood pressure are also studied. This 3D electronic platform and AESR‐based biometrical findings show promising biomedical applications.
Decoupled Solar Energy Storage and Dark Photocatalysis in a 3D Metal–Organic Framework
Authors: Stanley Philip M. , Sixt Florian , Warnan Julien
Published: October 2022

Materials enabling solar energy conversion and long‐term storage for readily available electrical and chemical energy are key for off‐grid energy distribution. Herein, the specific confinement of a rhenium coordination complex in a metal–organic framework (MOF) unlocks a unique electron accumulating property under visible‐light irradiation. About 15 C gMOF−1 of electric charges can be concentrated and stored for over four weeks without loss. Decoupled, on‐demand discharge for electrochemical reactions and H2 evolution catalysis is shown and light‐driven recharging can be conducted for >10 cycles with ≈90% of the initial charging capacity retained. Experimental investigations and theoretical calculations link electron trapping to MOF‐induced geometry constraints as well as the coordination environment of the Re‐center, highlighting the key role of MOF confinement on molecular guests. This study serves as the seminal report on 3D porous colloids achieving photoaccumulation of long‐lived electrons, unlocking dark photocatalysis, and a path toward solar capacitor and solar battery systems.
A Rapid Effervescent Route to Rational Activation of Cu/g‐C3N4 and bulk MoS2 Cocatalyst for Highly Efficient and Robust Photo‐Fenton Process
Authors: Li Wenxin , Ding Chenjie , Kang Shifei , Gao Weikang , Yang Yang , Cui Lifeng
Published: October 2022

Heterogeneous Fenton‐like process with a wide pH range is a promising alternative to traditional homogeneous Fenton reactions. Recently, the boosting effect of MoS2 cocatalysts is widely recognized in Fenton reactions, and the primary mechanism is the promotion of the reduction and recycling of high‐valence metal ions. Unfortunately, integrating heterogeneous Fenton‐like catalysts and MoS2 cocatalyst to form an efficient system remains challenging due to the severe deactivation of MoS2 and the inability of simple physical mixing to speed up the reaction. For the first time, the direct activation of commercially available bulk MoS2 powder in a durable acidic microenvironment is achieved. The foam‐modified photo‐Fenton catalyst (Cu‐CN‐ef) promotes the rapid activation and formed an ideal MoS2‐excited photo‐Fenton system. The significant synergistic effect of the system is ascribed to the outstanding sustainability of Cu‐Mo redox cycling and favorable local acidic microenvironment on the surface of Cu‐CN‐ef. This system works well in outdoor cases with a tiny amount of commercially available Cu‐CN/MoS2 powder, promising a new route for portable and rapid solar‐powered wastewater treatment. The unique effervescence modification method shows great potential in the rational reconstruction of the affinity interface of composite catalysts and efficient solar energy utilization systems.
Whole‐Device Mass‐Producible Perovskite Photodetector Based on Laser‐Induced Graphene Electrodes
Authors: Qu Menglong , Tian Yingxin , Cheng Yi‐Bing , Zhong Jie , Zhang Cheng
Published: October 2022

Perovskites have attracted enormous attention in optoelectronics, owing to their excellent optoelectronic properties, low‐cost constituents, and simple solution fabrication approaches. Despite significant advances in large‐scale production of perovskite films, electrode layers—indispensable components of an optoelectronic device—are typically fabricated by depositing noble metals onto perovskite films using complicated techniques, which hinder the large‐scale production of optoelectronic devices. Herein, a whole‐device mass‐producible perovskite photodetector is developed using low‐cost and high‐scalability direct laser writing (DLW) of laser‐induced graphene on a flexible polyimide (PI) film as electrodes, followed by depositing a formamidinium cesium lead triiodide perovskite film using solution methods as the sensing element. The fabricated device exhibits a broad bandwidth (from 365  to 940 nm), a decent responsivity (15.1 mA W−1) and detectivity (5.12 × 1013 Jones), a large photo‐to‐dark current ratio (47.2), and short response time (rise time = 0.4 s and decay time = 0.4 s). The device demonstrates a high humidity (relative humidity = 85%) stability, a long‐term (>48 days) stability, and a high flexibility (0°/90° bending cycles > 1000 times) after encapsulation. The developed whole‐device scalable fabrication sheds light on the mass production and commercialization of perovskite based optoelectronic devices and flexible electronics.
Age at menarche, environmental stress, and social inequality: Evidence from Poland in the 1930s–1950s
Authors: Liczbińska Grażyna , Brabec Marek , Piontek Janusz , Malina Robert M.
Published: October 2022

Objective

To address the relationship between socioeconomic factors and age of menarche among Polish women born and reared in periods that varied considerably in environmental stresses: the Great Depression of the 1930s, the interval of World War II, and the interval of communist rule following World War II through the 1950s.

Methods

The data set included information on age at menarche and socioeconomic status (SES) of 718 women born during the Great Depression (n = 182), WWII (n = 189), and post‐WWII through the 1950s (n = 347). A structured semi‐parametric statistical model (generalized additive model [GAM] class) was used for analysis. An ANOVA‐like linear model was used to test for marginal effects of SES‐related factors and their interactions together with nonparametric seasonal effect.

Results

The influence of period of birth, month of birth, region of early childhood, and father's education, and the interaction between period of birth and father's education on age at menarche were statistically significant. During the economic crisis and the interval of WWII, differences in ages at menarche between the extreme categories of father's education were marked. The differences in ages at menarche between women from the lowest and highest social groups were markedly reduced among women born during the post‐war interval. In addition, women born in February–March attained menarche earlier than women born in September–October.

Conclusions

Unpredictable conditions associated with the economic crisis and war conditions had a stronger impact on age at menarche among women from families of lower SES compared to women from better economic circumstances. Individuals born and reared in low SES conditions likely suffered more severe deterioration across the spectrum of the standard of living and quality of life compared to those with a higher SES.
Biologische Effekte von auf schwarzem Phosphor basierenden Nanomaterialien auf Zellen und Tiere
Authors: Zhang Xuejiao , Donskyi Ievgen S. , Tang Weihao , Deng Shuo , Liu Daxu , Zhang Siyu , Zhao Qing , Xing Baoshan
Published: October 2022

Die bedeutenden Fortschritte bei der Anwendung von auf schwarzem Phosphor basierenden Nanomaterialien (SPNMs) sind auf deren hervorragende Eigenschaften zurückzuführen. Aufgrund der vielfältigen Anwendungsmöglichkeiten dieser Materialien sind die Freisetzung in die Umwelt und eine anschließende Exposition des Menschen praktisch unvermeidlich. Daher muss untersucht werden, wie sich SPNMs auf biologische Systeme und die menschliche Gesundheit auswirken. In dieser umfassenden Übersicht werden die neuesten Erkenntnisse in Bezug auf Wirkungsweise, Mechanismen und Regulierungsfaktoren der endogenen Toxizität von SPNMs in Säugetieren vorgestellt. Diese Ergebnisse bilden die Grundlage für das Verständnis der biologischen Auswirkungen und haben das Ziel, Regulierungsprinzipien zur Minimierung gesundheitsschädlicher Auswirkungen festzulegen.
Electroretinography in adults with high‐functioning autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Friedel Evelyn B. N. , Schäfer Mirjam , Endres Dominique , Maier Simon , Runge Kimon , Bach Michael , Heinrich Sven P. , Ebert Dieter , Domschke Katharina , Tebartz van Elst Ludger , Nickel Kathrin
Published: October 2022

The electroretinogram (ERG) allows the investigation of retinal signaling pathways and has increasingly been applied in individuals with mental disorders in search for potential biomarkers of neurodevelopmental disorders. Preceding ERG examinations in individuals with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) showed inconsistent results, which might be due to the small number of participants, heterogeneity of the ASD population, differences in age ranges, and stimulation methods. The aim of this study was to investigate functional retinal responses in adults with ASD by means of the light‐adapted (photopic) ERG. Light‐adapted ERG measurements were obtained with the RETeval® system applying three different stimulation protocols. In the final analysis, the ERG parameters a‐wave, b‐wave, the photopic negative response (PhNR), the photopic hill parameters as well as additional amplitude ratios were compared between 32 adults with high‐functioning ASD and 31 non‐autistic controls. Both groups were matched with regard to sex and age. No significant functional retinal differences in amplitude or peak time of the a‐ or b‐wave, PhNR, the photopic hill parameters or the ERG‐amplitude ratios could be detected in individuals with ASD compared to non‐autistic participants. The absence of electrophysiological functional retinal alterations in ASD, suggests that changes in visual perception, such as increased attention to detail or visual hypersensitivity in ASD, are not due to impairments at early levels of retinal signal processing.
Innervation of the human vulvar vestibule: A comprehensive review
Authors: Velikonja Leah , Giovannetti Olivia , Adams Michael A. , Tomalty Diane
Published: October 2022

Pain of the vulvar vestibule, including provoked vestibulodynia, is prevalent among women, yet challenging to treat due to its multifactorial etiology. Recent evidence indicates a neuroproliferative subtype in which hypersensitivity of the vulvar vestibule is due, in part, to hyperinnervation. Detailed knowledge regarding the innervation of the vulvar vestibule is crucial to understanding and treating pain conditions impacting this region. The purpose of this review is to consolidate the current evidence regarding the innervation of the human vulvar vestibule and discuss the implications of this innervation for pathological conditions affecting this tissue. A comprehensive review of the literature was conducted using keywords including vulvar vestibule, innervation, and vestibulodynia to identify articles concerning the innervation of the vulvar vestibule. Fifteen studies published between 1998 and 2017 were reviewed. Evidence from immunohistochemical investigations support that the vulvar vestibule has nociceptive, mechanosensory, sympathetic, and parasympathetic innervation. In pathological samples, hyperinnervation supports the neuroproliferative etiology of provoked vestibulodynia. Additionally, there is some evidence supporting the role of the pudendal nerve in vulvar vestibule innervation, although no cadaveric studies have been reported to date. Progress has been made in our understanding of the innervation of the vulvar vestibule, though further research into the origin of sensory and autonomic innervation of this region is needed. Advancing the knowledge of vulvar vestibule innervation is crucial towards improving our understanding of the function of this tissue, in addition to informing the etiology and management of pain syndromes impacting this region.
A longitudinal analysis of person‐centred therapy with suicidal clients
Authors: Sohal Amrita , Murphy David
Published: October 2022

Background

There have been substantial research efforts demonstrating the effectiveness of person‐centred therapy. However, little research has investigated whether person‐centred therapy is effective in facilitating psychological growth amongst clients experiencing suicidal ideation and serious mental health difficulties.

Aim

This study aimed to determine whether suicidal clients who received person‐centred therapy experienced increased levels of authenticity, well‐being and psychological distress. The predictive validity of authenticity and well‐being upon psychological distress was also tested.

Method

The study utilised quantitative, longitudinal methodology. Data were collected from a clinical sample of clients receiving person‐centred therapy at a counselling research clinic (N = 56) over the course of 20 sessions.

Results

There were statistically significant improvements in levels of authenticity, well‐being and psychological distress over 20 sessions of therapy; a minimum of 15 sessions were required for significant change to be observed. Authenticity and well‐being were negatively associated with psychological distress, whilst authenticity and well‐being were positively associated with each other. Early authenticity and well‐being predict levels of distress later in therapy. These results provide initial evidence to support Rogers' theory of therapy, which is suitable for clients experiencing both mild and severe distress; the findings refute the view that person‐centred therapy is only suitable for the “worried well.”

Implications

There is now preliminary justification for person‐centred therapy being suitable for suicidal clients. Person‐centred therapists could consider offering suicidal clients at least 15 sessions to achieve meaningful change; ethical considerations pertaining to this are explored.
Virtual testing of a new conjecture for the stone ascending device in Egyptian pyramids by means of a multibody dynamics simulation
Authors: Sarbia Franco , Cirelli Marco , Giannini Oliviero , Cera Mattia , Valentini Pier Paolo , Pennestrì Ettore
Published: October 2022

The ascending of rock blocks for building the Egyptian pyramids has been the topic of many discussions among Egyptologists. One of the authors (F.S.) conjectured a method that could be used for the task. In his own words: “This is the story of the random discovery of an oscillating machine, capable of using gravity to ascend, as the sail goes upwind.” In this article, by means of a virtual prototype and multibody dynamics simulation, the physical feasibility of such method is tested for the first time. From historical and archeological bases, this investigation presents the fundamental functional features of the virtual model components for the ascending of the stones. Furthermore, the methodological details for the model setup, as well as the discussion on the stone ascending movements, are herein addressed. The main results obtained from the simulation include the evaluation of the advancement‐per‐cycle of the conjectured ascending device and the corresponding required driving forces.
Engineering Human Neuroglobin into a Cytochrome c‐Like Protein with a Single Thioether Bond in Non‐native State
Authors: Chen Lei , Yuan Hong , Wang Xiao‐Juan , Li Lianzhi , Tan Xiangshi , Lin Ying‐Wu
Published: October 2022

A double mutant of human H64M/V71C neuroglobin (Ngb) was engineered, which formed a single thioether bond as that in atypical cytochrome c, whereas the heme distal Met64 was oxidized to both sulfoxide (SO‐Met) and sulfone (SO2‐Met). By contrast, no Cys‐heme cross‐link was formed in V71C Ngb with His64/His96 coordination, as shown by the X‐ray crystal structure, which indicates that an open distal site facilitates the activation of heme iron for structural modifications.
Synthesis, Photophysical Properties and Biological Evaluation of New Conjugates BODIPY: Dinuclear Trithiolato‐Bridged Ruthenium(II)‐Arene Complexes
Authors: Desiatkina Oksana , Boubaker Ghalia , Anghel Nicoleta , Amdouni Yosra , Hemphill Andrew , Furrer Julien , Păunescu Emilia
Published: October 2022

The synthesis, photophysical properties and antiparasitic efficacy against Toxoplasma gondii β‐gal (RH strain tachyzoites expressing β‐galactosidase) grown in human foreskin fibroblast monolayers (HFF) of a series of 15 new conjugates BODIPY‐trithiolato‐bridged dinuclear ruthenium(II)‐arene complexes are reported (BODIPY=4,4‐difluoro‐4‐bora‐3a,4a‐diaza‐s‐indacene, derivatives used as fluorescent markers). The influence of the bond type (amide vs. ester), as well as that of the length and nature (alkyl vs. aryl) of the spacer between the dye and the diruthenium(II) complex moiety, on fluorescence and biological activity were evaluated. The assessed photophysical properties revealed that despite an important fluorescence quenching effect observed after conjugating the BODIPY to the diruthenium unit, the hybrids could nevertheless be used as fluorescent tracers. Although the antiparasitic activity of this series of conjugates appears limited, the compounds demonstrate potential as fluorescent probes for investigating the intracellular trafficking of trithiolato‐bridged dinuclear Ru(II)‐arene complexes in vitro.
Quantification of Exchanged Copper Species in Cu‐Chabazite Zeolite using Cryogenic Probe Infrared Spectroscopy
Authors: Wang Shao‐Chun , Abdulghani Abdullah Al , Lebrón‐Rodríguez Edgard A. , Lo Wei‐Shang , Zhu Haiyang , Moini Ahmad , Petrovic Ivan , Prasad Subramanian , Hermans Ive
Published: October 2022

The development of a low temperature (−160 °C) NO adsorption technique is disclosed that avoids the chemical conversion of the probe molecule at room temperature. The observed IR peaks for Cu+(NO)2 and Cu2+(NO) species can be used to quantify the amount of exchanged copper species in a broad range of samples, including a wash‐coated honeycomb. Calibration curves for Cu+(NO)2 and Cu2+(NO) are determined for copper loadings up to 3.99 wt% with Silica‐to‐Alumina Ratio (SAR) of 16–22, and quantitative agreement with the complementary hydrogen Temperature Programmed Reduction (H2‐TPR) results is established. This methodology allows to identify different Cu species in Cu‐CHA, such as Z2Cu(II), Z1Cu(II)OH and Cu dimers, based on their distinct IR signatures. In addition, the perturbed T−O−T framework vibration – characterized at 400 °C – can also be used as a complimentary method to quantify Z2Cu(II) species.
Gram‐Scale mRNA Production Using a 250‐mL Single‐Use Bioreactor
Authors: Skok Janja , Megušar Polona , Vodopivec Tina , Pregeljc Domen , Mencin Nina , Korenč Matevž , Krušič Andreja , Celjar Anže Martinčič , Pavlin Nejc , Krušič Jana , Mueller Matthias , McHugh Kevin , Štrancar Aleš , Sekirnik Rok
Published: October 2022

The COVID‐19 pandemic triggered an unprecedented surge in development of mRNA‐based vaccines. Despite the need to increase process productivity and thus decrease the cost of mRNA vaccines, limited scientific literature is available on strategies to increase the yield of in vitro transcription (IVT) reaction, the unit operation with highest cost of goods, which has traditionally been performed as a batch reaction. Single‐use bioreactors are traditionally used for cell‐based production of biopharmaceuticals, but some core functionalities, such as controlled and automated feed addition, are potentially useful for cell‐free mRNA processes. We report the production of 2 g mRNA in an Ambr® 250 Modular bioreactor system with a starting volume of 100 mL, reaching a maximum mRNA concentration of 12 g L−1 by a fed‐batch IVT approach, and demonstrate the feasibility of continuous fed‐batch production, paving the way towards continuous manufacturing of mRNA.
Presence of higenamine in beetroot containing ‘foodstuffs’ and the implication for WADA‐relevant anti‐doping testing
Authors: Leaney Amy E. , Heath Jenna , Midforth Emma , Beck Paul , Brown Paul , Mawson Deborah H.
Published: October 2022

Higenamine is an alkaloid found within plant species including some that are used in traditional Asian and Chinese herbal medicines. Identified as having mixed mode adrenergic receptor activity, higenamine is present within some nutritional supplements marketed for stimulant and/or weight loss. Its inclusion within nutritional supplements can be via its natural presence within botanical ingredients or as a synthetic additive, often added in mg amounts. The World Anti‐doping Agency (WADA) prohibited list has contained higenamine since 2017 as banned at all times in the beta‐2 agonist (S3) category, with a reporting level of 10 ng/ml for the free parent form in urine. In this study, an investigation into the content of beetroot or beetroot‐containing foodstuffs and supplement products was conducted. Higenamine was confirmed as present within the majority of foodstuffs and supplements, with experimental evidence that higenamine can arise within beetroot extracts through heating. The results in this paper demonstrate the first reported evidence of a link between beetroot and this WADA prohibited substance. To investigate the link between intake and excretion, concentrated beetroot drinks were consumed by six individuals and higenamine quantified in their urine. Free higenamine was detected in the urine of all individuals, with maximum measured concentration in samples of less than 1% of the current WADA reporting limit. Although the risk of an inadvertent doping violation by consumption of the foodstuffs and products investigated in this study is low, beetroot as a source of higenamine should be considered by athletes.
Decision support for aquatic restoration based on species‐specific responses to disturbance
Authors: McKenna James E. , Riseng Catherine , Wehrly Kevin
Published: October 2022

Disturbances to aquatic habitats are not uniformly distributed within the Great Lakes and acute effects can be strongest in nearshore areas where both landscape and within lake effects can have strong influence. Furthermore, different fish species respond to disturbances in different ways. A means to identify and evaluate locations and extent of disturbances that affect fish is needed throughout the Great Lakes. We used partial Canonical Correspondence Analysis to separate “natural” effects on nearshore assemblages from disturbance effects. Species‐specific quadratic models of fish abundance as functions of in‐lake disturbance or watershed‐derived disturbance were developed separately for each of 35 species and lakewide predictions mapped for Lake Erie. Most responses were unimodal and more species decreased in abundance with increasing watershed disturbance than increased. However, eight species increased in abundance with current in‐lake disturbance conditions. Optimum Yellow Perch (Perca flavescens) abundance occurred at in‐lake disturbance values less than the gradient mean, but decreased continuously from minimum watershed disturbance to higher values. Bands of optimum in‐lake conditions occurred throughout the eastern and western portions of the Lake Erie nearshore zone; some areas were less disturbed than desirable. However, watershed‐derived disturbance conditions were generally poor for Yellow Perch throughout the lake. In contrast, optimum Smallmouth Bass (Micropterus dolomieu) abundance occurred at in‐lake disturbance values greater than the gradient mean and continuously increased with increasing watershed disturbance. Smallmouth Bass responses to disturbance indicated that most of the nearshore zone was less disturbed than is desirable and were most abundant in areas that the Yellow Perch response indicated were highly disturbed. Mapping counts of species response models that agreed on the disturbance level in each spatial unit of the nearshore zone showed a fine‐scale mosaic of areas in which habitat restoration may benefit many or few species. This tool may assist managers in prioritizing conservation and restoration efforts and evaluating environmental conditions that may be improved.
HDAC4 depletion ameliorates IL‐13‐triggered inflammatory response and mucus production in nasal epithelial cells via activation of SIRT1/NF‐κB signaling
Authors: Xu Hangyu , Wang Lingjun , Chen Huaqun , Cai Hefei
Published: October 2022

Introduction

Allergic rhinitis (AR) is frequently known as a chronic respiratory disease with a global high prevalence. The pivotal roles of histone deacetylase 4 (HDAC4) in multiple human diseases have been underlined by numerous studies. Nevertheless, whether HDAC4 is implicated in AR remains to be elaborated. The objective of the current study is to clarify the impacts of HDAC4 on AR.

Methods

First, human nasal epithelial cells (hNECs) were pretreated by interleukin‐13 (IL‐13). HDAC4 expression in hNECs with the presence or absence of IL‐13 treatment was tested by quantitative reverse‐transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT‐qPCR) and western blot. Following, after HDAC4 was depleted, levels of histamine, Immunoglobulin E (IgE) and inflammatory factors were analyzed by ELISA assay. Then, Mucin‐5AC (MUC5AC) expression was examined through RT‐qPCR, western blot, and IF assay. Western blot was to analyze the expression of sirtuin 1 (SIRT1)/nuclear factor‐kappaB (NF‐κB) signaling‐related proteins. After IL‐13‐induced hNECs were cotransfected with HDAC4 interference plasmids and SIRT1 inhibitor EX527, the functional experiments above were conducted again.

Results

The experimental data in this study presented that HDAC4 expression was increased in IL‐13‐induced hNECs. Silencing of HDAC4 cut down the levels of histamine, IgE and inflammatory factors and the expression of MUC5AC. Additionally, knockdown of HDAC4 led to the activation of SIRT1/NF‐κB signaling. Further, the downregulated levels of histamine, IgE and inflammatory factors and the expression of MUC5AC imposed by HDAC4 interference were all reversed by EX527.

Conclusions

In short, HDAC4 inhibition activated SIRT1/NF‐κB signaling to mitigate inflammatory response and mucus production in IL‐13‐treated nasal epithelial cells in AR.