bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of a mass trapping strategy to prevent mosquito nuisance in campsites of southern France
Authors: Pontifes Paulina A. , Ferre Jean‐Baptiste , Lavergne Jéremy , Sidos Nicolas , Roiz David
Published: July 2024

Mosquito traps, historically used for surveillance and research, have gained prominence as a tool for mosquito control, amidst concern over the environmental impact and increased resistance to insecticide‐based methods. In this study, we tested the effectiveness of a mass trapping barrier design with two types of traps, Mosquito Magnet (MM) traps and BG‐Protector (BGP) traps. This experiment was conducted in three coastal camping areas in southern France between summer and autumn 2022, where the presence of floodwater mosquito species with anthropophilic preferences like Aedes caspius represents a year‐long nuisance. MM traps were set around the campsite as a barrier to interfere with mosquitoes from entering the campsites, whereas BGP traps were set within the campsites, with the aim of diverting mosquitoes away from humans at peak activity hours. Over 210,000 mosquitoes of 11 species from 4 genera were collected by both trap types across treatment campsites, with no significant differences in mosquito community samplings between BGP and MM traps. Barrier traps effectively targeted Ae. caspius, reducing total mosquito abundance in two of the three study sites by 34% and 55%. This study provides valuable insights into the efficacy and feasibility of using mass trapping barriers as a complementary control strategy for mosquito species in wetlands.
The role of Fusobacterium nucleatum in cancer and its implications for clinical applications
Authors: Luo Wanyi , Han Juxi , Peng Xian , Zhou Xuedong , Gong Tao , Zheng Xin
Published: July 2024

Fusobacterium nucleatum, a gram‐negative anaerobic bacterium abundantly found in the human oral cavity, is widely recognized as a key pathobiont responsible for the initiation and progression of periodontal diseases due to its remarkable aggregative capabilities. Numerous clinical studies have linked F. nucleatum with unfavorable prognostic outcomes in various malignancies. In further research, scholars have partially elucidated the mechanisms underlying F. nucleatum’s impact on various types of cancer, thus gaining a certain comprehension of the role played by F. nucleatum in cancer. In this comprehensive review, we present an in‐depth synthesis of the interplay between F. nucleatum and different cancers, focusing on aspects such as tumor initiation, metastasis, chemoresistance, and modulation of the tumor immune microenvironment and immunotherapy. The implications for cancer diagnosis and treatment are also summarized. The objective of this review is to enhance our comprehension of the intricate relationship between F. nucleatum and oncogenic pathogenesis, while emphasizing potential therapeutic strategies.
Anisomyopia and orthokeratology for myopia control – Axial elongation and relative peripheral refraction
Authors: Wang Jianglan , Cheung Sin Wan , Bian Siyu , Wang Xingyu , Liu Longqian , Cho Pauline
Published: July 2024

Purpose

To investigate axial elongation (AE) and changes in relative peripheral refraction (RPR) in anisomyopic children undergoing orthokeratology (ortho‐k).

Methods

Bilateral anisomyopic children, 7–12 years of age, were treated with ortho‐k. Axial length (AL) and RPR, from 30° nasal (N30°) to 30° temporal (T30°), were measured at baseline and every 6 months over the study period. AE, changes in RPR and changes in the interocular AL difference were determined over time.

Results

Twenty‐six of the 33 subjects completed the 2‐year study. The AE of the higher myopic (HM) eyes (at least 1.50 D more myopia than the other eye) (0.26 ± 0.29 mm) was significantly smaller than for the less myopic (LM) eyes (0.50 ± 0.27 mm; p = 0.003), leading to a reduction in the interocular difference in AL (p = 0.001). Baseline RPR measurements in the HM eyes were relatively more hyperopic at T30°, N20° and N30° (p ≤ 0.02) and greater myopic shifts were observed at T20° (p < 0.001), T30° (p < 0.001), N20° (p = 0.02) and N30° (p = 0.01) after lens wear. After 2 years of ortho‐k lens wear, temporal–nasal asymmetry increased significantly, being more myopic at the temporal locations in both eyes (p < 0.001), while AE was associated with the change in RPR at N20° (β = 0.134, p = 0.01). The interocular difference in AE was also positively associated with the interocular difference in RPR change at N30° (β = 0.111, p = 0.02).

Conclusions

Ortho‐k slowed AE in bilateral anisomyopia, with slower growth in the HM eyes leading to a reduction in interocular AL differences. After ortho‐k, RPR changed from hyperopia to myopia, with greater changes induced in the HM eyes, and slower AE was associated with a more myopic shift in RPR, especially in the nasal field of both eyes.
Nietzsche on suffering and morality
Authors: Shaver Robert
Published: July 2024

Nietzsche claims that suffering is needed for achievement. Morality, he thinks, aims to end suffering, and so would end achievement. I argue that at best some achievements are partly caused by suffering. Nietzsche could get a more secure connection between suffering and achievement by arguing that some achievements are constituted in part by suffering. But in both the causal and constitutive cases, moralists do not condemn inflicting on oneself the suffering involved in achievement. Nietzsche could instead argue, more simply, that morality is mistaken to think suffering is bad. He could deploy a ‘conditionality’ view of organic wholes, on which the value of suffering changes when part of an achievement, to argue that in some cases, suffering is good. I argue that here the conditionality view is less plausible than Moore's view of organic wholes, on which suffering would remain bad.
Investigating weather variables driving boxwood blight epidemics: Insights from field trials with Buxus sempervirens ‘Suffruticosa’ in northern Germany between 2006 and 2020
Authors: Khaliq Ihsanul , Brand Thomas , Daughtrey Margery , Kong Ping , Hong Chuanxue
Published: July 2024

Boxwood blight is a highly invasive disease, but studies on host–pathogen–environment interactions are rare because the initial research emphasis has been on developing resistant cultivars and chemical control of the disease. We used generalized additive models to investigate weather variables driving boxwood blight epidemics in field trials conducted between 2006 and 2020. Briefly, three or four replicate rows with 10 boxwood plants per row were planted in 0.75 m2 plots. Plants were artificially inoculated in 2006, while those in subsequent years were naturally infected with inoculum left over from previous trials. Disease severity was assessed by estimating the percentage of leaves blighted, including fallen leaves. There was a significant positive main effect of mean rainfall per rainy day, daily minimum temperatures and daily minimum relative humidity on disease severity observed over individual field trial periods. There was a significant negative interaction effect of mean rainfall per rainy day and daily maximum wind speed, and daily minimum relative humidity and daily minimum temperature on disease severity. Higher disease severity was associated with higher mean rainfall per rainy day and lower daily maximum wind speed. Likewise, an increase in daily minimum relative humidity at lower daily minimum temperatures was associated with a greater increase in disease severity than at higher temperatures, suggesting that higher temperatures resulted in lower humidity that led, in turn, to less disease severity. The implications of our findings for forecasting models and conservation of boxwood are discussed.
Exploring young adults' experiences with food allergy during their teenage years: A practice research study
Authors: Egmose Britt , Huniche Lotte , Bindslev‐Jensen Carsten , Nielsen Dorthe S. , Mørtz Charlotte G.
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Symptoms of anxiety, eating disorders and social isolation are prevalent among teenagers with food allergy compared to peers without. Treatment of teenagers with food allergy focus on preventing anaphylactic reactions, with little attention to promoting social and emotional well‐being. The aim of the study was to explore young adults' perspectives on everyday life with food allergy during their teenage years to improve future clinical practice.

Methods

Critical psychological practice research. During a 2‐day camp the perspectives of 10 young adults (18–23 years) were explored through participant observation and informal interviews. Three follow up interviews were conducted. A co‐researcher group discussed preliminary results, clinical challenges and ways forward.

Results

Being together with peers with food allergy was crucial, fostering belonging and normalisation. The shift in responsibility of managing the risk feels overwhelming and stressful during teen age. Self‐understanding was influenced when managing food allergy in social contexts, inducing feelings of burden and isolation. Acceptance and understanding from social relations became important for all participants, and they all underlined desire for being viewed as individuals rather than being defined by their allergy.

Conclusion

Support from other peers with food allergy is crucial for the participants. Transition to independently managing risks introduces uncertainty and social constraints, affecting self‐understanding and interactions. Clinicians should prioritise peer support and empower teenagers in managing the risk and psychosocial challenges.
The role of social support and social identification in challenge and threat, perceived stress, and life satisfaction
Authors: Gillman Jamie C. , Turner Martin J. , Slater Matthew J.
Published: July 2024

Individualistic appraisals have dominated contemporary stress theory and have too often overlooked socially derived perceptions of group resources. The aim of this study was to examine the effect of social support and social identification on individuals' challenge and threat appraisal, perceived stress, and life satisfaction across a range of group contexts. An online survey was completed by 480 participants across four groups: students (n = 110), workplace employees (n = 126), team sport athletes (n = 116), and group exercisers (n = 128) on one occasion. We found a positive relationship between social support and social identification along with significant associations of these social factors being positively related with self‐efficacy, control, approach, and challenge, while negatively related with threat. Avoidance, along with challenge and threat was positively associated with perceived stress, while self‐efficacy was negatively associated with perceived stress. Further, control, self‐efficacy, social identification, and social support was positively associated with life satisfaction, while approach, threat, and perceived stress was negatively associated, with life satisfaction. Social identification also moderated the positive association between social support and life satisfaction. Overall, we found evidence for the resource appraisals outlined in contemporary theory being associated with both social support and social identification, along with perceived stress and life satisfaction across different group contexts. Therefore, when understanding individuals' stress responses and associated life satisfaction, research and practice should consider the combination of individual and social factors.
Design of the Cooling Water System Upgrade for 42 T Resistive Magnet at the CHMFL
Authors: Tang Jiali , Fang Ming , Zhou Chenfei , Zhou Peng
Published: July 2024

To meet the operation requirements of the 42 T resistive magnet which will be built by the Chinese High Magnetic Field Laboratory (CHMFL) in the future, the cooling water system needs to be upgraded accordingly. The cooling water system will improve its performance based on the existing cooling system. This article will make a detailed analysis of the system upgrading and transformation plan. In terms of refrigeration, to meet the requirements of larger refrigeration temperature difference, a new centrifugal chiller with large temperature difference will be added in series with the existing unit of refrigeration. With the increase in heat load, the system will connect a new plate heat exchanger in parallel on the basis of the original heat exchange capacity. However, the circulating cooling water flowrate of the 42 T resistive magnet is expected to exceed 1200 m3/h, the purification flowrate of the deionized water also needs to be upgraded, and the purification ratio is expected to reach more than 6%. In addition, the control system will be also combined with the new equipment and pipelines to realize a variety of chilled water storage and supply modes to better meet the operation of the new-built magnet.
Partitioning polar-slush strategy in relaxors leads to large energy-storage capability
Authors: Shu Liang , Shi Xiaoming , Zhang Xin , Yang Ziqi , Li Wei , Ma Yunpeng , Liu Yi-Xuan , Liu Lisha , Cheng Yue-Yu-Shan , Wei Liyu , Li Qian , Huang Houbing , Zhang Shujun , Li Jing-Feng
Published: July 2024

Relaxor ferroelectric (RFE) films are promising energy-storage candidates for miniaturizing high-power electronic systems, which is credited to their high energy density (
U
e
) and efficiency. However, advancing their
U
e
beyond 200 joules per cubic centimeter is challenging, limiting their potential for next-generation energy-storage devices. We implemented a partitioning polar-slush strategy in RFEs to push the boundary of
U
e
. Guided by phase-field simulations, we designed and fabricated high-performance Bi(Mg
0.5
Ti
0.5
)O
3
-SrTiO
3
–based RFE films with isolated slush-like polar clusters, which were realized through suppression of the nonpolar cubic matrix and introduction of highly insulating networks. The simultaneous enhancement of the reversible polarization and breakdown strength leads to a
U
e
of 202 joules per cubic centimeter with a high efficiency of ~79%. The proposed strategy provides a design freedom for next-generation high-performance dielectrics.
Stop H5N1 influenza in US cattle now
Authors: Lewis Nicola , Beer Martin
Published: July 2024

The relentless march of a highly pathogenic avian influenza virus (HPAIV) strain, known as H5N1, to become an unprecedented panzootic continues unchecked. The leap of H5N1 clade 2.3.4.4b from Eurasia and Africa to North America in 2021 and its further spread to South America and the Antarctic have exposed new avian and mammalian populations to the virus and led to outbreaks on an unrivaled scale. The virus has infected wild birds across vast geographic regions and caused wildlife deaths in some of the world’s most biodiverse ecosystems. Hundreds of millions of poultry have died or been culled, affecting global food security in some of the world’s poorest regions. Numerous mammalian species, including sea lions and fur animals, have been infected. Outbreaks in dairy cows in the United States have been occurring for months, seemingly unchecked in most affected states. Why is there not a greater sense of urgency to control these infections?
Stunning 3D chromosomes preserved in thawed mammoths
Authors: Stone Richard
Published: July 2024

“New type of fossil” may boost efforts to bring beasts back
Non-pharmaceutical interventions for COVID-19 transiently reduced pneumococcal and
Haemophilus influenzae
carriage in a cross-sectional pediatric cohort in Southampton, UK
Authors: Cleary David W. , Campling James , Lahuerta Maria , Hayford Kyla , Southern Jo , Gessner Bradford D. , Lo Stephanie W. , Bentley Stephen D. , Faust Saul N. , Clarke Stuart C.
Published: July 2024

The Southampton pneumococcal carriage study of children under 5 years old continued during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Here, we present data from October 2018 to March 2023 describing prevalence of pneumococci and other pathobionts during the winter seasons before, during, and after the introduction of non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs) to prevent severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) transmission. Nasopharyngeal swabs were collected from children attending outpatient clinics at a secondary care hospital and community healthcare sites. Pre-NPIs, in 2019/2020, the carriage prevalence of pneumococci at the hospital site was 32% (
n
= 161 positive/499 participants). During NPIs, this fell to 19% (
n
= 12/64), although based on fewer participants compared to previous years due to COVID-19 restrictions on health-care attendance. In 2021/2022, after NPIs had eased, prevalence rebounded to 33% (
n
= 15/46) [compared to NPIs period,
χ
2
(1,
N
= 110) =2.78,
P
= 0.09]. Carriage prevalence at community healthcare sites fell significantly from 27% (
n
= 127/470) in 2019/2020 to 19% during the NPI period (
n
= 44/228) in 2020/2021 [
χ
2
(1,
N
= 698) =4.95,
P
= 0.026]. No rebound was observed in 2021/2022 [19% (
n
= 56/288)]. However, in a multivariate logistic regression model, neither site had a significantly lower carriage prevalence during the NPI period compared to the post NPI period. A reduction in serotype diversity was observed in 2020/2021. Carriage of
Haemophilus influenzae
was particularly affected by NPIs with a significant reduction observed. In conclusion, among children under 5 years of age, transient, modest, and statistically non-significant alterations in carriage of both
Streptococcus pneumoniae
and
H. influenzae
were associated with SARS-CoV-2 NPIs.

IMPORTANCE

Streptococcus pneumoniae
(the pneumococcus) continues to be a major contributor to global morbidity and mortality. Using our long-running pediatric study, we examined changes in pneumococcal carriage prevalence in nearly 3,000 children under the age of 5 years between the winters of 2018/2019 and 2022/2023. This period coincided with the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 pandemic and, in particular, the implementation of national strategies to limit disease transmission in the UK. We observed a transient reduction of both
Streptococcus pneumoniae
and
Haemophilus influenzae
in these populations during this period of non-pharmaceutical interventions. This aligned with the reduction in invasive pneumococcal disease seen in the UK and is therefore a likely contributor to this phenomenon.
Atypical presentation of biotinidase deficiency: masquerading neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder
Authors: Ali Farhan , Mukhtiar Khairunnisa , Raza Mohammad , Ibrahim Shahnaz
Published: July 2024

Biotinidase deficiency (BTD) is a treatable, inherited metabolic disorder commonly characterised by alopecia, dermatitis, seizures and developmental delay. It can also manifest as optic neuritis and myelitis; however, these are infrequently described in the literature. We report three cases who presented with quadriplegia and vision loss, initially managed as neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD), based on neuroimaging findings. Two of them initially responded to immune therapy but relapsed after a few months, while one case showed no clinical improvement with immune therapy. The clinical presentation and neuroimaging findings in all three cases were consistent with NMOSD, leading to a delayed diagnosis of BTD. Antiaquaporin4 and antimyelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibodies were negative in all patients. Urine organic acids reported raised markers of biotinidase or holocarboxylase synthase deficiency. Two of them had a dramatic response to biotin supplementation, showing significant improvement in motor function and vision.
Aortic root dilation in acromegaly
Authors: Yeboah-Kordieh Yvette Ayewa , Arif Waqar , Weisman David , Salvatori Roberto
Published: July 2024

Previous studies have linked persistent elevations in growth hormone (GH) and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) to cardiac abnormalities including aortic root dilation. Guidelines in the management of this dilation below the size recommended for surgery have not been well defined but follow-up and intervention when appropriate could be life-saving. We report the case of a man in his 60s who had been living with undiagnosed acromegaly for many years. His initial assessment through point-of-care ultrasound raised concerns about potential cardiac enlargement, prompting further investigation with a formal echocardiogram, which revealed a significant aortic root dilation measuring 4.5 cm. Subsequent blood tests confirmed elevated levels of IGF-1. Brain MRI showed a focal lesion in the pituitary gland, which was surgically resected, confirming the diagnosis of a GH-secreting pituitary adenoma. One year after surgery, a repeat CT angiogram of the chest demonstrated a stable size of the aortic root aneurysm.
Impact of gender identity in the inflammatory bowel disease population: an evidence review and practical steps for gastroenterologists
Authors: Colwill Michael , Pollok Richard , Seal Leighton , Poullis Andrew
Published: July 2024

There has been greater societal awareness of differences in gender identity and sexual orientation in recent years. The rates of identifying as transgender or gender non-conforming (TGNC) are increasing and are known to be higher in the younger population and will therefore be over-represented in the inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) subpopulation. However, despite this there is very little in the literature with regards to those who identify as TGNC and are diagnosed with IBD (TGNC-IBD). Many TGNC individuals have poor experiences when seeking healthcare and many physicians find it a challenging and daunting clinical situation to be faced with. We reviewed the available literature with regards to TGNC-IBD population demographics, physical, mental and sexual health considerations, medication interactions and implications for surgery in this heterogenous group. We have identified areas that need further research and suggested simple and practical steps that can be adopted in order to help healthcare providers improve the experience for TGNC individuals diagnosed with IBD and the quality of care they provide.
A crisis in clinical research
Authors: Hong David S , LoRusso Patricia , Sznol Mario
Published: July 2024

The clinical research pipeline is critical to ensuring continued development of novel treatments that can offer patients with cancer safe and effective options. Unfortunately, progress has slowed since the COVID-19 pandemic due to uncovered, systemic inefficiencies across critical processes. Towards initiating discussion on how to reinvigorate clinical research, the Society for Immunotherapy of Cancer (SITC) hosted a virtual summit that characterized issues and formed potential solutions. This commentary serves to highlight the crisis facing clinical research as well as stimulate field-wide discussion on how to better serve patients into the future.
Anatomical assessments of injectate spread stratified by the volume of the intertransverse process block at the T2 level
Authors: Kim Ji Yeong , Lee U-Young , Kim Do-Hyeong , Han Dong Woo , Kim Sang Hyun , Jeong Yujin , Cho So Yeon , Han Sangchul , Ryu Jeong Hwan , Park Hue Jung
Published: July 2024

Background

This cadaveric study aimed to analyze injectate spread to target nerves during a single-injection, ultrasound-guided intertransverse process block.

Methods

An ultrasound-guided intertransverse process block with three different injectate volumes was administered to 12 cadavers. Each hemithorax was subjected to computer-generated random allocation of 10, 15, or 20 mL ultrasound-guided, single-injection intertransverse process block at the T2 vertebral level. Latex dye solution was injected into each hemithorax in accordance with the allocated volume. The presence of dye at the nerve root in the sympathetic chain and intercostal nerves at various injection levels was examined via dissection.

Results

Injectate spread into the dorsal rami was observed in seven of eight (87.5%), seven of eight (87.5%), and all eight (100%) of the 10, 15, and 20 mL specimens, respectively. In all 20 mL specimens, consistent staining of the dorsal rami, spinal nerve, and dorsal root ganglion was observed.

Conclusions

An injectate volume of 20 mL was required for consistent staining of the dorsal rami, spinal nerve, and dorsal root ganglion in an intertransverse process block. Although an augmented injectate volume was associated with an increased likelihood of target nerve staining, consistent staining of the sympathetic ganglion, rami communicans, and ventral ramus was not observed, even at a volume of 20 mL. The current study presents initial findings suggesting that as opposed to a sympathetic ganglion block, a 20 mL intertransverse process block may act as a feasible substitute for dorsal root ganglion, spinal nerve, and medial branch blocks within a clinical context.
Study of neutrinoless double beta decay in the Standard Model extended with sterile neutrinos
Authors: Das Debashree Priyadarsini , Mishra Sasmita
Published: July 2024

We study a model where the Standard Model is augmented with three sterile neutrinos. By adopting a particular parameterization of a $$(6\times 6)$$

(
6
×
6
)

unitary matrix—in this context, light neutrino masses being generated via a type-I seesaw mechanism—we analytically derive the masses of the sterile states using an exact seesaw relation. The masses of the sterile states are derived in terms of the lightest mass of active neutrinos and active–active and active–sterile mixing angles and phases; they can be all light, all heavy, or a mixture of light and heavy compared to the active states. This can be attributed to the interplay of the CP-violating (CPV) phases of the mixing matrix. As both active and sterile states can mediate the neutrinoless double beta decay ($$0\nu \beta \beta $$

0
ν
β
β

) process, their contributions to the effective mass of the electron neutrino, $$|m_{ee}|$$

|

m

ee

|

, become a function of the mass of the lightest active state and active–active and active–sterile mixing angles and phases. We explore the parameter space of $$|m_{ee}|$$

|

m

ee

|

, keeping in mind the present and future sensitivity of $$0\nu \beta \beta $$

0
ν
β
β

decay searches. By making use of constraints from charged lepton flavor-violating (cLFV) processes and non-unitarity, we explore the role of additional CPV phases and active–sterile mixing angle values. The numerical values thus obtained for $$|m_{ee}|$$

|

m

ee

|

can vary from as low as $$\mathscr {O}(10^{-4})$$

O
(

10

-
4

)

to saturating the present experimental limit. We also check the reliability of our result by calculating the branching ratio of $$\mu \rightarrow e \gamma $$

μ
→
e
γ

, a prominent cLFV process, and non-unitarity in this framework.
Electrochemical Detection of Dopamine Using Green Synthesized Gold Nanoparticles fromStrobilanthes Kunthiana’sLeaf Extract
Authors: Sridharan Gokul , Murugan Ridhu Varshini , Atchudan Raji , Arya Sandeep , Sundramoorthy Ashok K.
Published: July 2024

Dopamine (DA) is an important neurotransmitter and has been linked to several neurological diseases. Due to its biological significance, electrochemical detection of dopamine has become a hot topic of research. Herein, by using gold nanoparticles (Au NPs) made through green synthesis, we demonstrate a unique method for the sensitive detection of DA. A Strobilanthes kunthiana leaves extract was used as a reducing and stabilizing agent during the green and sustainable synthesis of the Au NPs. Several characterizations including UV–Visible spectroscopy (absorption peak at 540 nm), Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR), X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FE-SEM) (average particle size of 31 nm), Energy Dispersive X-Ray Spectroscopy (EDAX), Elemental Mapping (E-MAP) and Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS) have been used to characterize the synthesized Au NPs. Moreover, electrochemical techniques like amperometry and Cyclic Voltammetry (CV) were used to confirm the stability and linearity of the Au NPs-based sensor for the determination of DA. The linear range of dopamine determination was found to be from 0.1 [Formula: see text]M to 356 [Formula: see text]M with the detection limit of 0.1 [Formula: see text]M.
Examining the Role of Parental Support on Youth’s Interest in and Self-Efficacy of Computer Programming
Authors: Shehzad Umar , Clarke-Midura Jody , Recker Mimi
Published: July 2024

Objectives
. The increasing demand for computing skills has led to a rapid rise in the development of new computer science (CS) curricula, many with the goal of equitably broadening the participation of underrepresented students in CS. While such initiatives are vital, factors outside of the school environment also play a role in influencing students’ interests. In this article, we examined the effects of students’ perceived parental support on their interest in computer programming and explored the mechanisms through which this effect may have been established as students participated in an introductory CS instructional unit.

Participants
. This instructional unit was implemented with upper primary (grade 5) school students and was designed to broaden trajectories for participation in CS. The participants in the current study (
N

\(=\)

170) came from six classrooms in two rural schools in the western United States.

Study Method
. The seven-week instructional unit began with students playing a commercial CS tabletop board game that highlighted fundamental programming concepts and transitioned to having students create their own board game levels in the block-based programming language, Scratch. Further, because the board game could be taken home, the instructional unit offered opportunities to involve the family in school-based CS activities. To investigate the effect of students’ perception of parental (specifically father and mother) support on their interest in and self-efficacy to pursue CS, we surveyed students before and after the unit’s implementations and explored the structural relationship of the data using structural equation modeling.

Results
. We present three findings. First, the combined effect of students’ perceived mother’s and father’s support measured prior to the implementation (pre-survey) predicted students’ self-efficacy (Standardized Estimate (

\({\boldsymbol{\beta}}\)

)

\(=\)

0.37, standard error

\(=\)

0.010,
p

\( \lt \)

.001) and interest in computer programming (Standardized Estimate (

\({\boldsymbol{\beta}}\)

)

\(=\)

0.328, standard error

\(=\)

0.134,
p

\( \lt \)

.003) measured after the implementation (post-survey). Secondly, the combined effect of perceived mother and father support (Standardized Estimate (

\({\boldsymbol{\beta}}\)

)

\(=\)

0.132, 95% CI [0.039, 0.399], 99% CI [0.017, 0.542]) on students’ interest was mediated by whether or not they took the CS board game home.

Conclusions
. Our findings indicate that perceived parental support has the potential to play an important role in students’ self-efficacy and interest in computer programming and that providing opportunities for students to bring CS artifacts home has the potential to further affect students’ interest in computer programming.
Irreducible IrO2 Anode Co-Catalysts for PEM Fuel Cell Voltage Reversal Mitigation and Their Stability Under Start-Up/Shut-Down Conditions
Authors: Fathi Tovini Mohammad , Damjanović Ana Marija , El-Sayed Hany A. , Strehle Benjamin , Speder Jozsef , Ghielmi Alessandro , Gasteiger Hubert A.
Published: July 2024

IrO2 has been widely used as the anode co-catalyst for mitigating cell voltage reversal damages in proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs). However, under the PEMFC anode operation conditions, conventionally prepared IrO2 catalysts are reduced by H2, forming metallic Ir on their surface, which is prone to dissolution during start-up/shut-down (SUSD) cycles. The dissolved Irn+ ions can permeate through the membrane to the cathode electrode, poisoning the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) activity of the Pt/C cathode catalyst. In this study, we introduce an unprecedented approach to synthesize IrO2 catalysts (irr-IrO2) which are not reduced in the PEMFC anode environment at 80 °C over extended time. Their preparation is based on an industrially scalable procedure, consisting of a high-temperature (650 °C–1000 °C) heat treatment step, a subsequent ball milling step, and a final post-annealing step, thereby attaining catalysts with specific surface areas of ∼25 m2 g−1. The high reduction resistance of the irr-IrO2 catalysts, attributed to their highly ordered crystalline structure compared to that of typically synthesized IrO2 catalysts, is reflected by the observation that SUSD cycling of MEAs with the irr-IrO2 as anode co-catalysts does not result in iridium dissolution and the associated iridium poisoning of the Pt/C cathode catalyst.
Water Crossover in Proton Exchange Membrane Water Electrolysis
Authors: Friedrichs-Schucht M. , Hasché F. , Oezaslan M.
Published: July 2024

Water management is critical for high performance of polymer electrolyte membrane water electrolysis (PEMWE). In this work, we investigated the water crossover for 5 cm2 PEMWE single cell by varying the temperature (40–80 °C), current density (0–2 A cm−2
geo), cathode pressure (ambient, 310 kPagauge,inlet), and nitrogen purge rate (50, 100 nccm). Using an advanced gravimetric method, the water crossover to the cathode could be established very accurately and also corrected by the water vapor fraction. Here, we pointed out that the cathode exhaust gas is saturated with water vapor, either from diffusion or by proton drag at low or high current densities, respectively. Very importantly, the water crossover at high current density is controlled by the proton drag and are used to extract the temperature-dependent proton drag coefficient at 1 A cm−2
geo. Our results reveal that the proton drag coefficient increases from 2.5 ± 0.2 at 40 °C to 3.2 ± 0.2 at 80 °C (+28%). Altogether, we have developed a sophisticated gravimetric method to accurately determine the water crossover under PEMWE operating conditions and proposed a model of the temperature-dependent proton drag coefficient. Unravelling the proton drag and diffusion is very important for modeling of water transport in PEMWE.
Modeling and Analysis of Polarization Losses in Solid Oxide Fuel Cells with Siloxane Contamination
Authors: Rukmini A. , Ghotkar Rhushikesh , Riley D. , Tian J. , Milcarek R. J.
Published: July 2024

In this study, the degradation of the solid-oxide fuel cell (SOFC) nickel-yttria stabilized zirconia anode under decamethyltetrasiloxane (L4) contamination is examined with experiments and modeling. A model is developed for the polarization losses based on the charge transfer coefficient, α, and diffusion layer thickness, δ, and fitted to the experimental data to understand how the siloxane degrades the SOFC performance with time. The results of the model indicate that the total polarization losses increase approximately 44% over the course of the 180 min experiment at 350 mA cm−2. Activation losses dominate the polarization losses initially but decrease in their total contribution while concentration losses increase. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) with wavelength dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (WDS) elemental mapping indicates that silicon deposition is highest at the outer edge of the anode and forms a barrier layer to fuel diffusion, increasing concentration losses. When the model is applied to other previous D4 and L4 siloxane experiments conducted over a period of 40 h, similar trends in polarization losses are observed. Polarization losses increase more rapidly with D4 compared to L4 siloxane contamination, with concentration losses increasing the fastest with both types of siloxane.
Induced Ruminal Lactic Acidosis in Sheep Treated with Various Remedial Agents in Libo Kemkem Districts, Northwest Ethiopia
Authors: Abebaw Balemual , Melaku Achenef , Dagnachew Shimelis
Published: July 2024

Background. Grain overload is a ruminant metabolic disorder associated with overingestion or a sudden change to rapidly fermentable concentrate feeds. Objective. A randomized clinical trial was carried out in Libo Kemkem districts to investigate vital signs, ruminal fluid, and hematological changes in sheep related to grain overload and to assess the treatment efficacy of various remedial agents in Farta sheep breeds. Methods. All sheep were selected by using the simple random process, and categorized into four groups of eight animals groups I, II, and III in which each sheep was given 80 g of wheat flour per kg of body weight then baking soda, Magnalax, and digestive powder were treated successively, but group IV was the negative control group. Results. The current clinical trial explained that all acidotic sheep had statistically significant (p < 0.0002) lower body temperature, rumen motility, protozoa activity, and ruminal fluid pH with 38.48 ± 0.20, 0.5 ± 0.89, 6 (75%), and 5.37 ± 0.34 mean value successively. Nevertheless, there were significant (p < 0.0059) increments in hematological variables including total red blood cell, total white blood cell, packed cell volume, and hemoglobin estimation with 14.05 ± 1.27, 12.71 ± 0.99, 40.78 ± 5.24, and 14.78 ± 1.83 mean value, respectively, before treatment in acidotic sheep. There were also vital sign increments including pulse rate, respiratory rate, skin turgor, and capillary refill time with 123.5 ± 27.1, 73.75 ± 12.71, 3 ± 1.78, and 3.37 ± 1.77 mean values, respectively, before medical treatment in acidotic sheep. Digestive powder was the first drug of choice, followed by Magnalax, and baking soda was ranked at the end based on clinical recovery. Conclusion. The treatment effectiveness illustrated that all treatments could cure the grain overload. Nevertheless, digestive powder is the drug of choice based on the clinical and systemic recovery of the sheep. In addition to this, sheep should be introduced gradually to concentrate rations over 2–3 weeks with a mixture of concentrate in the milled feed containing roughage.
Mesoscale Convective Systems in Central Africa: Characteristics of the Associated Seasonal and Diurnal Cycle of Observed Surface Meteorological Parameters
Authors: Tikeng Stella Songwe , Pokam Wilfried Mba , Washington Richard
Published: July 2024

This study examines mesoscale convective systems (MCSs) in relation to 1‐min automatic weather station data for 2 years over the city of Yaounde. The focus is on characterising the atmospheric variability associated with MCS activity while distinguishing the days with and without MCS activities. This paper aims to determine the diurnal cycles of occurrence frequencies and percentages of rainfall, relative humidity, dew point temperature, solar radiation, temperature, and wind speed for days with and without MCSs. There are more than 623 MCS events during the study period (over 150 events per rainy season). The link between MCS activity and regional‐scale circulation and atmospheric instability is investigated. The diurnal cycle of the number of MCSs shows a maximum in the afternoon (around 1,600–2,200 LT), a morning minimum (around 0700–1,300 LT), and substantial activity during the night. Surface relative humidity is 5% lower on non‐MCS days, surface dew point 2% higher on MCS days between 0700 and 1800 hr, and solar radiation higher on MCS days between 0500 and 1000 hr. The percentage of rainfall associated with MCSs can exceed 60% on an annual scale and up to 80% on a seasonal scale. MCS activity is associated with instability in the lower troposphere, and this convective instability is maximal during the peak of the MCS activity.
Ecological Momentary Assessment versus Weekly Questionnaire Assessment of Change in Depression
Authors: Tamm Jeanette , Takano Keisuke , Just Leah , Ehring Thomas , Rosenkranz Tabea , Kopf-Beck Johannes
Published: July 2024

Objective. Ecological momentary assessment (EMA) is increasingly used to monitor depressive symptoms in clinical trials, but little is known about the comparability of its outcomes to those of clinical interviews and questionnaires. In our study, we administered EMA and questionnaires to measure change in depressive symptoms and repetitive negative thinking (RNT) in a clinical trial and investigated (a) the size of intervention effects associated with both techniques and (b) their validity in predicting clinical interview outcomes (i.e., global functioning). Materials and Methods. Seventy‐one depressed patients were randomly assigned to one of three psychological interventions. The EMA comprised a concise item set (four items per scale) and was administered three times per day during a 7‐week intervention period. Conversely, questionnaires were assessed weekly (WQA), encompassing their full sets of items of depressive symptoms and RNT. Results. While EMA excelled in detecting significant intervention effects, WQA demonstrated greater strength in predicting clinician ratings of global functioning. Additionally, we observed significant differences in time effects (slopes) between the two techniques. WQA scores decreased steeper over time and were more extreme, e.g., higher at baseline and lower postintervention, than EMA scores. Conclusions. Although clinical interviews, questionnaires, and EMA outcomes are related, they assess changes in depression differently. EMA may be more sensitive to intervention effects, but all three methods harbor potential bias, raising validity and reliability questions. Therefore, to enhance the validity and reliability of clinical trial assessments, we emphasize the importance of EMA approaches that combine subjective self‐reports with objectively measured behavioral markers. This trial is registered with osf.io/9fuhn.
Blockade of IL1β and PD1 with Combination Chemotherapy Reduces Systemic Myeloid Suppression in Metastatic Pancreatic Cancer with Heterogeneous Effects in the Tumor
Authors: Oberstein Paul E. , Dias Costa Andressa , Kawaler Emily A. , Cardot-Ruffino Victoire , Rahma Osama E. , Beri Nina , Singh Harshabad , Abrams Thomas A. , Biller Leah H. , Cleary James M. , Enzinger Peter , Huffman Brandon M. , McCleary Nadine J. , Perez Kimberly J. , Rubinson Douglas A. , Schlechter Benjamin L. , Surana Rishi , Yurgelun Matthew B. , Wang S. Jennifer , Remland Joshua , Brais Lauren K. , Bollenrucher Naima , Chang Eugena , Ali Lestat R. , Lenehan Patrick J. , Dolgalev Igor , Werba Gregor , Lima Cibelle , Keheler C. Elizabeth , Sullivan Keri M. , Dougan Michael , Hajdu Cristina , Dajee Maya , Pelletier Marc R. , Nazeer Saloney , Squires Matthew , Bar-Sagi Dafna , Wolpin Brian M. , Nowak Jonathan A. , Simeone Diane M. , Dougan Stephanie K.
Published: July 2024

Innate inflammation promotes tumor development, although the role of innate inflammatory cytokines in established human tumors is unclear. Herein, we report clinical and translational results from a phase Ib trial testing whether IL1β blockade in human pancreatic cancer would alleviate myeloid immunosuppression and reveal antitumor T-cell responses to PD1 blockade. Patients with treatment-naïve advanced pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (n = 10) were treated with canakinumab, a high-affinity monoclonal human antiinterleukin-1β (IL1β), the PD1 blocking antibody spartalizumab, and gemcitabine/n(ab)paclitaxel. Analysis of paired peripheral blood from patients in the trial versus patients receiving multiagent chemotherapy showed a modest increase in HLA-DR+CD38+ activated CD8+ T cells and a decrease in circulating monocytic myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSC) by flow cytometry for patients in the trial but not in controls. Similarly, we used patient serum to differentiate monocytic MDSCs in vitro and showed that functional inhibition of T-cell proliferation was reduced when using on-treatment serum samples from patients in the trial but not when using serum from patients treated with chemotherapy alone. Within the tumor, we observed few changes in suppressive myeloid-cell populations or activated T cells as assessed by single-cell transcriptional profiling or multiplex immunofluorescence, although increases in CD8+ T cells suggest that improvements in the tumor immune microenvironment might be revealed by a larger study. Overall, the data indicate that exposure to PD1 and IL1β blockade induced a modest reactivation of peripheral CD8+ T cells and decreased circulating monocytic MDSCs; however, these changes did not lead to similarly uniform alterations in the tumor microenvironment.
Supplementary Figure 9 from PTP4A2 Promotes Glioblastoma Progression and Macrophage Polarization under Microenvironmental Pressure
Authors: Chouleur Tiffanie , Emanuelli Andrea , Souleyreau Wilfried , Derieppe Marie-Alix , Leboucq Téo , Hardy Serge , Mathivet Thomas , Tremblay Michel L. , Bikfalvi Andreas
Published: July 2024

In vitro phenotype of P3 cells
Vascular Calcification Is Accelerated by Hyponatremia and Low Osmolality
Authors: Matsueda Shumei , Yamada Shunsuke , Torisu Kumiko , Kitamura Hiromasa , Ninomiya Toshiharu , Nakano Toshiaki , Kitazono Takanari
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND:

Hyponatremia, frequently observed in patients with chronic kidney disease, is associated with increased cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Hyponatremia or low osmolality induces oxidative stress and cell death, both of which accelerate vascular calcification (VC), a critical phenotype in patients with chronic kidney disease. Whether hyponatremia or low osmolality plays a role in the pathogenesis of VC is unknown.

METHODS:

Human vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) and mouse aortic rings were cultured in various osmotic conditions and calcifying medium supplemented with high calcium and phosphate. The effects of low osmolality on phenotypic change and oxidative stress in the cultured VSMCs were examined. Microarray analysis was conducted to determine the main signaling pathway of osmolality-related VC. The transcellular sodium and calcium ions flux across the VSMCs were visualized by live imaging. Furthermore, the effect of osmolality on calciprotein particles (CPPs) was investigated. Associations between arterial intimal calcification and hyponatremia or low osmolality were examined by a cross-sectional study using human autopsy specimens obtained in the Hisayama Study.

RESULTS:

Low osmolality exacerbated calcification of the ECM (extracellular matrix) of cultured VSMCs and mouse aortic rings. Oxidative stress and osteogenic differentiation of VSMCs were identified as the underlying mechanisms responsible for low osmolality-induced VC. Microarray analysis showed that low osmolality activated the Rac1 (Ras-related C3 botulinum toxin substrate 1)-Akt (protein kinase B) pathway and reduced NCX1 (Na-Ca exchanger 1) expression. Live imaging showed synchronic calcium ion efflux and sodium ion influx via NCX1 when extracellular sodium ion concentrations were increased. An NCX1 inhibitor promoted calcifying media-induced VC by reducing calcium ion efflux. Furthermore, low osmolality accelerated the generation and maturation steps of CPPs. The cross-sectional study of human autopsy specimens showed that hyponatremia and low osmolality were associated with a greater area of arterial intimal calcification.

CONCLUSIONS:

Hyponatremia and low osmolality promote VC through multiple cellular processes, including the Rac1-Akt pathway activation.