bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Being exposed to low concentrations of pirimiphos‐methyl and chlorfenapyr has detrimental effects on the mobility of Trogoderma granarium
Authors: Kavallieratos Nickolas G. , Boukouvala Maria C. , Pappa Artemis Phoebe A. , Canale Angelo , Benelli Giovanni
Published: August 2023

BACKGROUND

Sublethal effects of insecticides may negatively affect several biological and behavioral traits of insects. The lethal effects of pirimiphos‐methyl and chlorfenapyr have been previously showed on Trogoderma granarium, but little knowledge is available about their sublethal effects at low concentrations on both sexes. Herein, the sublethal effects of pirimiphos‐methyl and chlorfenapyr on the mobility of T. granarium males and females were investigated.

RESULTS

Lethal concentration (LC) values of pirimiphos‐methyl and chlorfenapyr were lower for T. granarium females than males. LC values on males were LC10 = 0.000788 and 0.00139 mg active ingredient (a.i.) cm−2, LC30 = 0.00350 and 0.00535 mg a.i. cm−2, and LC50 = 0.00986 and 0.0136 mg a.i. cm−2 for pirimiphos‐methyl and chlorfenapyr respectively. LC on females were LC10 = 0.000704 and 0.00110 mg a.i. cm−2, LC30 = 0.00323 and 0.00428 mg a.i. cm−2, and LC50 = 0.00925 and 0.0110 mg a.i. cm−2 for pirimiphos‐methyl and chlorfenapyr respectively. The walking duration of beetles exposed to LC30 of pirimiphos‐methyl was significantly lower than the individuals exposed to LC10 and LC30 of both insecticides and control ones. Pirimiphos‐methyl LC30‐exposed males remained more time on their back (101.7 s) than females (46.9 s), while the latter stayed immobile longer than males (381.7 s versus 371.9 s). The highest speed was recorded for control beetles (14.17 mm s−1 females vs. 12.44 mm s−1 males), while the lowest speed was observed in pirimiphos‐methyl LC30‐treated males (8.36 mm s−1) and females (9.66 mm s−1).

CONCLUSIONS

Overall, males and females exposed to low concentrations of pirimiphos‐methyl and chlorfenapyr showed reduced motility. This knowledge can be exploited further to unlock behavioral effects of insecticides for effective pest management programs in warehouses. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Engineering ofBacillus amyloliquefaciensα‐Amylase for Improved Catalytic Efficiency by Error‐Prone PCR
Authors: Yuan Susu , Li Renkuan , Lin Biyu , Yan Renxiang , Ye Xiuyun
Published: August 2023

Bacillus amyloliquefaciensα‐amylase (BAA) is one of well‐known midrange thermostability amylases that are widely used in food and washing processes. However, the improvement of its catalytic properties by molecular modification is still lagging. To improve the activity of α‐amylase BAA, mutants BAA28 and BAA294  are constructed via error‐prone PCR and purified by column chromatography in the present study. The catalytic efficiencies (Kcat/Km) of BAA28 and BAA294  are 2.42 and 2.73 mL mg−1s−1, which are 43% and 61% higher than that of the wild‐type BAA, respectively. Their specific activities are also increased by 40% and 62%, respectively, with no apparent changes of optimum temperature and pH. Homology modeling and molecular docking analysis suggest that the reduced steric hindrance is an important factor that enhances catalytic efficiencies and specific activities of the variants. These results may deepen the understanding of the mechanisms underlying the effects of each mutation on the catalytic efficiency of BAA and facilitate the construction of potent BAA mutants.
Successful surgical outcome of persistent right aortic arch and aberrant left subclavian artery in a 3‐month‐old kitten
Authors: Raftery Emma , Healy Donough , Lorek Andrea , Quinn Robert
Published: August 2023

A 3‐month‐old, domestic, long‐haired cat presented dull and lethargic with a history of failure to thrive and persistent postprandial regurgitation. A barium oesophagram performed by the referring veterinarian identified a megaoesophagus terminating at the level of the fourth intercostal space. Computed tomography angiography confirmed the suspected vascular ring anomaly, classified as a persistent right aortic arch with a concurrent aberrant left subclavian artery. Surgical ligation and transection of the ligamentum arteriosum, while sparing the aberrant left subclavian artery via a left fourth intercostal thoracotomy, resulted in resolution of the oesophageal compression and clinical signs postoperatively. Follow‐up 22 weeks postoperatively showed marked improvement in weight and body condition score, with no regurgitation following the introduction of a solid consistency commercial diet. This report describes the complete resolution of clinical signs following surgical correction of this form of vascular ring anomaly while sparing the aberrant left subclavian artery, without the need for long‐term dietary or feeding modification.
Mock modularity and a secondary elliptic genus
Authors: Gaiotto Davide , Johnson-Freyd Theo
Published: August 2023

Abstract

The theory of Topological Modular Forms suggests the existence of deformation invariants for two-dimensional supersymmetric field theories that are more refined than the standard elliptic genus. In this note we give a physical definition of some of these invariants. The theory of mock modular forms makes a surprise appearance, shedding light on the integrality properties of some well-known examples.
Methods and restrictions to increase the volume of resonant rectangular-section haloscopes for detecting dark matter axions
Authors: García-Barceló J. M. , Álvarez Melcón A. , Díaz-Morcillo A. , Gimeno B. , Lozano-Guerrero A. J. , Monzó-Cabrera J. , Navarro-Madrid J. R. , Navarro P.
Published: August 2023

Abstract

Haloscopes are resonant cavities that serve as detectors of dark matter axions when they are immersed in a strong static magnetic field. In order to increase the volume and improve space compatibility with dipole or solenoid magnets for axion searches, various haloscope design techniques for rectangular geometries are discussed in this study. The volume limits of two types of haloscopes are explored: those based on single cavities and those based on multicavities. In both cases, possibilities for increasing the volume of long and/or tall structures are presented. For multicavities, 1D geometries are explored to optimise the space in the magnets. Also, 2D and 3D geometries are introduced as a first step in laying the foundations for the development of these kinds of topologies. The results prove the usefulness of the developed methods, evidencing the ample room for improvement in rectangular haloscope designs nowadays. A factor of three orders of magnitude improvement in volume compared with a single cavity based on the WR-90 standard waveguide is obtained with the design of a long and tall single cavity. Similar procedures have been applied for long and tall multicavities. Experimental measurements are shown for prototypes based on tall multicavities and 2D structures, demonstrating the feasibility of using these types of geometries to increase the volume of real haloscopes.
Decorated TQFTs and their Hilbert spaces
Authors: Jagadale Mrunmay
Published: August 2023

Abstract

We discuss topological quantum field theories that compute topological invariants which depend on additional structures (or decorations) on three-manifolds. The q-series invariant Ẑ(q) proposed by Gukov, Pei, Putrov, and Vafa is an example of such an invariant. We describe how to obtain these decorated invariants by cutting and gluing and make a proposal for Hilbert spaces that are assigned to two-dimensional surfaces in the Ẑ-TQFT.
Some New Results on the Uniform Asymptotic Stability for Volterra Integro-differential Equations with Delays
Authors: Taie Rasha O. A. , Bakhit Doaa A. M.
Published: August 2023

In this work, we establish sufficient conditions of the uniform asymptotic stability (UAS) of solutions to second-order and third-order of Volterra integro-differential equations (VIDE) with delay. Here, we prove two new theorems on the UAS of the solutions of the considered VIDEs. Our approach is based on Lyapunov’s second method. Our results improve and form a complement to some known recent results in the literature. Two illustrative examples are considered to support the results and two graphs are drawn to illustrate the asymptotic stability of the zero solution for the considered numerical equations. The obtained results are new and original.
Minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis (MIPO) for scapular fractures
Authors: van de Wall B. J. M. , Hoepelman R. J. , Michelitsch C. , Diwersi N. , Sommer C. , Babst R. , Beeres F. J. P.
Published: August 2023

Objective

Presentation of a minimally invasive surgical approach for the treatment of scapular fractures and the clinical outcome using this technique.

Indications

Displaced extra-articular fractures of the scapula body and glenoid neck (AO 14B and 14F) and simple intra-articular fractures of the glenoid.

Contraindications

Complex intra-articular fractures and isolated fractures of the coracoid base.

Surgical technique

Make a straight or slightly curved incision along the lateral margin of the scapula leaving the deltoid fascia intact. Identify the interval between the teres minor muscle and infraspinatus to visualize the lateral column, whilst retracting the deltoid to visualize the glenoid neck. Reduce and align the fracture using direct and indirect reduction tools. A second window on the medial border of the scapula can be made to aid reduction and/or to augment stability. Small (2.0–2.7 mm) plates in a 90° configuration on the lateral border and, if required, on the medial border are used. Intra-operative imaging confirms adequate reduction and extra-articular screw placement.

Postoperative management

Direct postoperative free functional nonweight-bearing rehabilitation limited to 90° abduction for the first 6 weeks. Sling for comfort. Free range of motion and permissive weight-bearing after 6 weeks.

Results

We collected data from 35 patients treated with minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis (MIPO) between 2011 and 2021. Average age was 53 ± 15.1 years (range 21–71 years); 17 had a type B and 18 a type F fracture according the AO classification. All patients suffered concomitant injuries of which thoracic (n = 33) and upper extremity (n = 25) injuries were most common. Double plating of the lateral border (n = 30) was most commonly performed as described in the surgical technique section. One patient underwent an additional osteosynthesis 3 months after initial surgery due to pain and lack of radiological signs of healing of a fracture extension into the spine of the scapula. In the same patient, the plate on the spine of scapula was later removed due to plate irritation. In 2 patients postoperative images showed a screw protruding into the glenohumeral joint requiring revision surgery. After standardisation of intra-operative imaging following these two cases, intra-articular screw placement did not occur anymore. No patient suffered from iatrogenic nerve injury and none developed a wound infection.
Konsensusempfehlungen zur regionalen fächerübergreifenden Standardisierung der MRT-Diagnostik bei Multipler Sklerose im Großraum Essen
Authors: Stettner Mark , Wattjes Mike P. , Krüger Karlgeorg , Pul Refik , Fleischer Michael , Achnitz Ute , Agne Heike , Bach Kathlen , Berkenfeld Ralf , Bongartz Ulrike , Brüggemann Anja , Burgsmüller Lars , Cohnen Joseph , Deuschl Cornelius , Friedrich Anke , Graziano Patrizia , Hackert Jana , Hapig Beate , Henkel Andrea , Henrich Heike , Hükelheim-Görden Mechthild , Kratsch Luder , Kytzia Danuta , Lanzman Rotem , Heusch Philipp , Laufenburg Claus , Merguet Susanne , Metz Uwe , Montag Michael , Obeid Michel , Ornek Ahmet , Peters Sören , Plajer Theo , Plassmann Jürgen , Pump Heiko , Rauchfuss-Hartych Birgit , Reinboldt Marcus Paul , Seng Katja , Stauder Michael , Wettig Anna-Katharina , Wolters Anna , Yilmam Sedat , Kleinschnitz Christoph
Published: August 2023

Der Magnetresonanztomographie (MRT) kommt bei der Diagnostik und Verlaufsbeobachtung der Multiplen Sklerose (MS) eine herausragende Bedeutung zu. Jedoch ist zwischen niedergelassen Neurologen, (neuro)radiologischen Praxen, Krankenhäusern oder spezialisierten MS-Zentren nur selten eine enge interdisziplinäre Zusammenarbeit etabliert. Es fehlen insbesondere standardisierte MRT-Protokolle zur Bildakquisition sowie etablierte Qualitätsparameter, die die Vergleichbarkeit von MRT-Aufnahmen garantieren. Das ist jedoch eine grundlegende Voraussetzung für den effektiven Einsatz der MRT in der Versorgung von MS-Patienten, z. B. im Rahmen der Diagnosestellung oder des Therapiemonitorings. Zur Adressierung dieser Herausforderungen erarbeitete im Rahmen eines Pilotprojektes im Großraum Essen eine Gruppe aus Neurologen und (Neuro)radiologen unter Anwendung eines modifizierten mehrstufigen Delphi-Prozesses und auf Basis der aktuellsten wissenschaftlichen Untersuchungen einen Konsensvorschlag zur Standardisierung der Bildakquisition, Interpretation und Befundübermittlung und zur Verbesserung der interdisziplinären Zusammenarbeit. Die Empfehlung berücksichtigt medizinische, wirtschaftliche, zeitliche und praktische Aspekte der MRT-Bildgebung bei der MS. Das Modell der interdisziplinären Zusammenarbeit zwischen Radiologen und Neurologen mit dem Ziel der regionalen Standardisierung der Magnetresonanztomographie könnte als Vorbild für andere Regionen Deutschlands dienen, um die MRT-Bildgebung bei der MS zu optimieren.
A Characterization of Edge-Ordered Graphs with Almost Linear Extremal Functions
Authors: Kucheriya Gaurav , Tardos Gábor
Published: August 2023

The systematic study of Turán-type extremal problems for edge-ordered graphs was initiated by Gerbner et al. (Turán problems for Edge-ordered graphs, 2021). They conjectured that the extremal functions of edge-ordered forests of order chromatic number 2 are $$n^{1+o(1)}$$

n

1
+
o
(
1
)

. Here we resolve this conjecture proving the stronger upper bound of $$n2^{O(\sqrt{\log n})}$$

n

2

O
(

log
n

)

. This represents a gap in the family of possible extremal functions as other forbidden edge-ordered graphs have extremal functions $$\Omega (n^c)$$

Ω
(

n
c

)

for some $$c>1$$

c
>
1

. However, our result is probably not the last word: here we conjecture that the even stronger upper bound of $$n\log ^{O(1)}n$$

n

log

O
(
1
)

n

also holds for the same set of extremal functions.
Oil Mobility in Hazelnut Oil-Based Oleogels Investigated by NMR
Authors: Trapp Lena , Schacht Hilke , Eymann Luisa , Nirschl Hermann , Guthausen Gisela
Published: August 2023

The migration of triacyl glycerides such as hazelnut oil leads to quality losses in various foods (e.g., fat bloom formation on chocolate, also named “fat ripening”). Oleogelation, i.e., dispersion of oils in a solid matrix of gelators, is thought to immobilize oils and consequently to hinder oil migration, leading to questions about the translational, but also intramolecular mobility of triacyl glycerides in the oleogels. In addition to translational mobility measured by diffusion-NMR, the molecule-intrinsic dynamics is reflected in NMR-relaxation. In this study, transverse relaxation and diffusion were explored to obtain insight into the condition of the oils in the disperse materials. Oleogels based on sunflower seed wax are compared to oleogels based on mono- and diglycerides. In both types of oleogels NMR-measures depend on composition as well as on temperature. Studying both dimensions, concentration and temperature, reveals the restricted mobility of oil molecules in the oleogels.
The prevalence of sarcopenia in Parkinson’s disease and related disorders- a systematic review
Authors: Hart Ashley , Cordova-Rivera Laura , Barker Fred , Sayer Avan A. , Granic Antoneta , Yarnall Alison J.
Published: August 2023

Background

The prevalence of sarcopenia (reduced skeletal muscle strength and mass), Parkinson’s disease (PD) and Parkinson’s related disorders (PRD) all increase with age. They also share risk factors and pathogenetic features. An increased prevalence of sarcopenia in PD and PRD than the general population was thus postulated.

Methods

Four databases were searched using predefined literature search strategies. Studies conducted in participants with PD or PRD reporting the prevalence of sarcopenia and those providing data to compute the prevalence were included. Pre-sarcopenia, probable/possible sarcopenia and confirmed sarcopenia were defined according to the main sarcopenia working groups. Risk of bias was assessed using the AXIS tool.

Results

1978 studies were identified; 97 assessed in full; 14 met inclusion criteria. The median study quality score was 15/20. The range of probable sarcopenia was 23.9 to 66.7%, and it did not change after excluding PRD participants. The prevalence of confirmed sarcopenia in participants with any parkinsonian disorder ranged from 2 to 31.4%. Including just PD participants, the range was 10.9 to 31.4%. In studies with controls, sarcopenia was more prevalent in PD and PRD. There was a positive non-significant trend between severity of motor symptoms and prevalence of sarcopenia or components of sarcopenia. High heterogeneity precluded meta-analysis, therefore there was insufficient evidence to conclude whether sarcopenia is more prevalent in PD or PRD.

Conclusions

Probable and confirmed sarcopenia are common in PD and PRD and they may be associated with disease severity. This co-occurrence supports the value of screening for sarcopenia in parkinsonian populations.
Female and male body condition in the Whiskered Tern Chlidonias hybrida, a species with female offspring desertion: a test of the differential parental capacity hypothesis
Authors: Ledwoń Mateusz , Neubauer Grzegorz , Flis Adam , Banach Agata
Published: August 2023

Offspring desertion by a single parent, mainly the female, occurs in many charadriiform birds. According to the differential parental capacity hypothesis (DPCH), females are more likely to desert, since they may be in poorer body condition than males as a consequence of egg-laying costs. This study investigated the body condition of 122 male and 118 female Whiskered Terns. In this species half of females desert during the chick-rearing period, the remainder during the post-fledging period. Body condition was investigated during the late incubation and early chick-rearing phases during the biparental care period in: (1) females that deserted during the chick-rearing period, (2) females that did not desert during this time, (3) males deserted by females, and (4) males not deserted by females. Among females that stayed, body condition during the pre-hatching period did not vary with relative catching date (clutch/brood age), whereas females that later deserted showed a very poor body condition when caught around seven days prior to hatching. After hatching, body condition was lower in both deserting and non-deserting females caught later. Among males whose females stayed, body condition remained nearly stable, whereas the body condition of males whose females deserted was lower the later they were caught. These results tally only partially with the DPCH: the pattern of parental body condition changes during breeding is apparently more complex than assumed by the DPCH and the cost of egg laying may be lower than suggested. Desertion by Whiskered Tern females is better explained by the sex role differences in parental care. The male’s ability to compensate for the missing female may be playing a role in the evolution of desertion.
Invasion genetics of the yellow-legged hornet Vespa velutina in the Westernmost Mediterranean archipelago
Authors: Herrera Cayetano , Ferragut Joana F. , Leza Mar , Jurado-Rivera José Antonio
Published: August 2023

The yellow-legged hornet (Vespa velutina) is a social Hymenoptera native from Asia and an invasive species in Europe, where it was first detected in France in 2004. Since then, the species has spread across the continent invading mainland Spain and Mallorca island (Balearic archipelago, Western Mediterranean) in 2010 and 2015, respectively. Yellow-legged hornets cause severe damage to ecosystem by predating over a wide variety of pollinators including honeybees. Such a threat situation requires the development of effective management and prevention plans, which can greatly benefit from knowing both the origin and the genetic structure of the invading populations. Here we conduct a genetic study to shed light on both the origin and the phylogenetic relationships of V. velutina populations from Mallorca and mainland Spain using nuclear (STRs) and mitochondrial (cytochrome oxidase c subunit 1) gene markers. Our results show that Mallorca populations originated from invasive European specimens. Moreover, FST values, DAPC and genetic structure analysis suggest two independent incursions in the island with bottleneck and founder effect signatures. Finally, we contribute additional genetic evidence of the polyandrous behavior of this invasive species based on the inference of a mean number of mattings per nest of 3.94 (range 2–6.5). This study supports the human-mediated pathways of this species and highlights the importance of implementing effective biosecurity measures to prevent the spread of invasive alien species in island habitats.
Landscape and road features linked to wildlife mortality in the Amazon
Authors: Medrano-Vizcaíno Pablo , Grilo Clara , Brito-Zapata David , González-Suárez Manuela
Published: August 2023

Roads impact wildlife around the world; however, dedicated studies are lacking in many biodiverse areas such as the Amazon. Identifying which species are more often hit by vehicles and which landscape and road-related features promote roadkill is essential to guide future development and ensure adequate mitigation actions. For six months, we monitored 240 km of roads in the Ecuadorian Amazon and recorded 1125 dead vertebrates (149 species). Reptiles were the most observed Class with 380 individuals (56 species), followed by amphibians with 278 individuals (11 species), birds with 259 individuals (62 species), and mammals with 208 individuals (20 species). We used Random Forest models to explore the role of various land cover types and road sinuosity on the observed mortality. Additionally, we created heatmaps to visualize the road segments where roadkills were more frequent. For all vertebrates, mortality was more likely in straight road sections near rivers. The effects of other variables were taxa-specific. Amphibian mortality was more likely near bare soil or forest, birds and mammals died more often near herbaceous-shrubby vegetation, and reptile mortality occurred more often in areas with high cover of agriculture. Road segments with high mortality (i.e., roadkill hotspots) varied across taxa. These hotspots identify areas where further research into mitigation is needed to assess road impacts and prevent collisions. Among records, we found rare and threatened species, for which road mortality could be a significant threat. Roadkill surveys not only aid in quantifying threats and informing future planning but can also provide insight into local biodiversity.
Individual Carbon Footprint Reduction: Evidence from Pro-environmental Users of a Carbon Calculator
Authors: Enlund Jakob , Andersson David , Carlsson Fredrik
Published: August 2023

We provide the first estimates of how pro-environmental consumers reduce their total carbon footprint using a carbon calculator that covers all financial transactions. We use data from Swedish users of a carbon calculator that includes weekly estimates of users’ consumption-based carbon-equivalent emissions based on detailed financial statements, official registers, and self-reported lifestyle factors. The calculator is designed to induce behavioral change and gives users detailed information about their footprint. By using a robust difference-in-differences analysis with staggered adoption of the calculator, we estimate that users decrease their carbon footprint by around 10% in the first few weeks, but over the next few weeks, the reduction fades. Further analysis suggests that the carbon footprint reduction is driven by a combination of a shift from high- to low-emitting consumption categories and a temporary decrease in overall spending, and not by changes in any specific consumption category.
The Art of Waiting Humbly: Women Judges Reflect on Vertical Gender Segregation
Authors: Urbániková Marína , Havelková Barbara , Kosař David
Published: August 2023

Central and Eastern European countries (CEE), compared to common law countries but also other civil law countries of Europe, are known for a strikingly high representation of women within judiciaries. This, however, does not mean that equality has been achieved, as women judges do not reach leadership positions at the same rate as their male peers. Taking the Czech Republic as a case study, this contribution explores the barriers women judges face within a CEE judiciary and analyses their reflections on their positions. The interviews with women judges show that while they are well aware of what is holding them back, most of them do not perceive the structurally unequal position of men and women in Czech society and in the judiciary as a problem and accept the consequences as being part of women’s destiny. This means that the system currently lacks bottom-up incentives and pressure for change.
The Paradox of Axiological Coldness: An Original Husserlian Solution
Authors: Delamare Alexis
Published: August 2023

This paper explores the nature of ourexperiences of values– ourvalueceptions. In the recent literature, two main standpoints have emerged. On the one hand, the ‘Meinongian’ side claims that axiological properties are experienced exclusively in emotions. On the other hand, the ‘Hildebrandian’ side contends that since valueceptions can be ‘cold’, they are not accomplished in emotions but rather reside in ‘value-feelings’ – emotions, in this framework, being conceived of asreactionsto the values thus revealed. The aim of the paper is to argue that theHusserlianphenomenology of affectivity, especially as it is developed during his Göttingen period, can help to overcome these two accounts. I start by pointing out that, contrary to what most scholars have assumed so far, Husserl’s theory of valueception is not tantamount to Meinong’s, as it is very sensitive to ‘Hildebrandian’ arguments (Part 2). The core of the paper is then devoted to a systematic reconstruction of Husserl’s solution to this controversy. Drawing on the analogy between thing-perceptions and value-perceptions (Part 3), I show, first, that ‘cold’ valueceptions are to be identified with empty apprehensions (Auffassungen) of value, in which an emotion is notactually experiencedbut isanticipatedin such-and-such kinaesthetic circumstances (Part 4); second, that the realization of this anticipation amounts to thefulfillmentof the valueception (Part 5). As a result, Husserl acknowledges the relevance of ‘value-feelings’, yet his account appears more satisfactory than traditional ‘Hildebrandian’ theories in that it demystifies these ‘value-feelings’ by reducing them topotential emotions.
Low-dose Interleukin-2 For Psoriasis Therapy Based on the Regulation of Th17/Treg Cell Balance in Peripheral Blood
Authors: Qiao Zusha , Zhao Wenpeng , Liu Yan , Feng Wenli , Ma Yan , Jin Hongzhong
Published: August 2023

Abstract

The imbalance between regulatory T (Treg) cells and efficient T cells plays an important role in psoriasis. Low-dose interleukin (IL)-2 can preferentially activate Treg cells and ameliorate the imbalance of Treg/efficient T cells. This study focused on the status of circulating CD4+ T subsets and the clinical efficacy of low-dose IL-2 therapies in psoriasis. This retrospective study included peripheral blood samples obtained from 45 psoriatic patients and 40 healthy controls. The 45 psoriatic patients received three cycles of subcutaneous low-dose IL-2 treatment (0.5 million IU/day for 2 weeks) combined with conventional therapies. Inflammatory indices, CD4+ T-lymphocyte subsets, and cytokines were measured in all patients before and after treatment. The percentage of Treg cells was dramatically decreased in the psoriasis group compared to the healthy group, and the percentage of Treg cells negatively correlated with the disease indices and the Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) (P < 0.001). The Th17/Treg ratio was significantly increased in the psoriasis group compared to the healthy group, and the Th17/Treg ratio positively correlated with disease indices and PASI (P < 0.001). Low-dose IL-2 treatment significantly amplified the percentage of Treg cells and restored the Th17 and Treg immune balance in psoriasis (P < 0.001). Low-dose IL-2 combination therapy effectively improved the clinical manifestations of psoriasis but decreased the inflammatory indicators of the disease activity, with no apparent side effects. Thus, low-dose IL-2 provides a new strategy for the treatment of psoriasis.
Distribution, Population Density, and Behavior of Dwarf Galagos (Paragalago sp.) in Taita Hills, Kenya
Authors: Rosti Hanna , Heiskanen Janne , Bearder Simon , Lombo Benson , Pihlström Henry , Pellikka Petri , Rikkinen Jouko
Published: August 2023

A good understanding of taxonomy, distribution, and population density is needed for conservation. Scientific knowledge of dwarf galagos (Paragalago sp.) remains limited. Two populations of Taita dwarf galagos survive in the largest remnants of moist montane forest in Taita Hills, Kenya. We obtained acoustic data on the two remaining populations using AudioMoths—small, passive recorders—more than 231 h in January and February 2021. We measured forest structure by using airborne LiDAR and ground-level observations and tested the influence of forest size and height, canopy coverage, and density on calls per hour as an indicator of population density. Forest size significantly affected population size. Taita dwarf galagos prefer dense canopy coverage, and they prefer the lower 20–30-m tall forest. Mbololo forest (185 ha) has steady population, whereas dwarf galagos are nearly extinct in Ngangao forest (120 ha). The calls of Taita dwarf galagos resemble those of Kenya coast dwarf galagos (Paragalago cocos). DNA studies are urgently needed to resolve the taxonomic status of both surviving populations of dwarf galagos in the Taita Hills. This simple study design should be conducted across African forests to obtain crucial knowledge for galago conservation.
Attitudes and knowledge of myopia management by Spanish optometrists
Authors: Di Pierdomenico Johnny , González-González Raquel , Valiente-Soriano Francisco J. , Galindo-Romero Caridad , García-Ayuso Diego
Published: August 2023

Purpose

To investigate the knowledge, training and clinical practice of Spanish optometrists about preventing and controlling myopia progression.

Methods

A web-based questionnaire was distributed to Spanish optometrists through social networks, optometric professional bodies and one of the major Spanish optometrists' associations to assess practitioner perception, understanding, and self-reported clinical practice behavior related to myopia diagnosis and management.

Results

A total of 534 optometrists with a mean age of 40.8 ± 10.3 years completed the survey. Most respondents have been practicing optometry for more than 20 years (89.8%), report having actively treated childhood myopia (82.4%), and are very concerned about the increasing frequency of pediatric myopia in their daily practice (85.3%). Almost all of the respondents (97.3%) agreed that the efficacy of treatment is related to the age at which it is prescribed, and more than half (53.6%) considered a progression higher than − 0.50 and up to − 1.00D as the minimum necessary to consider a myopia management option. Respondents who reported actively managing childhood myopia considered orthokeratology, atropine and soft-defocus contact lenses the most effective myopia control interventions. However, the most frequently prescribed form of myopia correction by Spanish optometrists was single-vision spectacles, followed by orthokeratology and soft-defocus contact lenses.

Conclusions

Spanish optometrists are very active in the management of myopia, especially by fitting orthokeratology lenses or dual-focus soft contact lenses for myopia control, but there is still potential for improvement in the methodology they follow for both the diagnosis and management of myopia.
Ripple AT Plus — isthmus-guided vs conventional ablation in the treatment of scar-related atrial tachycardia: study protocol for a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Kailey Balrik , Kemp Ian , Taylor Martika , Crooks Jennifer , Katritsis George , Koa-Wing Michael , Jamil-Copley Shahnaz , Linton Nick , Kanagaratnam Prapa , Gupta Dhiraj , Luther Vishal
Published: August 2023

Background

Catheter ablation is routinely used to treat scar-related atrial tachycardia (s-AT). Conventional ablation often involves creating anatomical “lines” that transect myocardial tissue supporting reentry. This can be extensive, creating iatrogenic scar as a nidus for future reentry, and may account for arrhythmia recurrence. High-density mapping may identify “narrower isthmuses” requiring less ablation, with ripple mapping proven to be an effective approach in identifying. This trial explores whether ablation of narrower isthmuses in s-AT, defined using ripple mapping, results in greater freedom from arrhythmia recurrence compared to conventional ablation.

Methods

The Ripple-AT-Plus trial (registration ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03915691) is a prospective, multicentre, single-blinded, randomised controlled trial with 12-month follow-up. Two hundred s-AT patients will be randomised in a 1:1 fashion to either “ripple mapping-guided isthmus ablation” vs conventional ablation on the CARTO3 ConfiDENSE system (Biosense Webster). The primary outcome will compare recurrence of any atrial arrhythmia. Multicentre data will be analysed over a secure web-based cloud-storage and analysis software (CARTONETTM).

Conclusion

This is the first trial that considers long-term patient outcomes post s-AT ablation, and whether targeting narrower isthmuses in the era of high density is optimal.
Eco-Metabolomics Applied to the Chemical Ecology of Poison Frogs (Dendrobatoidea)
Authors: Gonzalez Mabel , Carazzone Chiara
Published: August 2023

Amphibians are one of the most remarkable sources of unique natural products. Biogenic amines, peptides, bufodienolides, alkaloids, and volatile organic compounds have been characterized in different species. The superfamily Dendrobatoidea represents one of the most enigmatic cases of study in chemical ecology because their skin secretome is composed by a complex mixture (i.e. cocktail) of highly lethal and noxious unique alkaloid structures. While chemical defences from dendrobatoids (families Dendrobatidae and Aromobatidae) have been investigated employing ecological, behavioral, phylogenetic and evolutionary perspectives, studies about the analytical techniques needed to perform the chemical characterization have been neglected for many years. Therefore, our aim is to summarize the current methods applied for the characterization of chemical profiles in dendrobatoids and to illustrate innovative Eco-metabolomics strategies that could be translated to this study model. This approach could be extended to natural products other than alkaloids and implemented for the chemical analysis of different species of dendrobatoids employing both low- and high-resolution mass spectrometers. Here, we overview important biological features to be considered, procedures that could be applied to perform the chemical characterization, steps and tools to perform an Eco-metabolomic analysis, and a final discussion about future perspectives.

Graphical Abstract
Poverty among same-sex couple families in the United States: Is there a premium for married couples?
Authors: Alonso-Villar Olga , del Río Coral
Published: August 2023

This paper explores the monetary poverty of families headed by same-sex couples, a group understudied in the poverty literature. This research contributes to the literature by documenting how same-sex couples rank with respect to different-sex couples when (a) employing poverty indicators that allow us to move beyond the poverty incidence; (b) measuring not only absolute poverty, which is the usual approach in US studies, but also relative poverty; and (c) distinguishing between married and cohabiting same-sex couples to determine whether they have the same marriage premium as different-sex couples do. Using a reweighting procedure to account for differences in basic characteristics, we document that married/cohabiting male same-sex couples have conditional poverty levels similar to those of married different-sex couples with some indicators, although when using other indicators, they have more poverty. The disadvantage of married male same-sex couples with respect to married different-sex couples increases when moving beyond poverty incidence. Female same-sex couples have more conditional poverty than married different-sex couples regardless of the poverty measure and marital status of the couple. We also find that the marriage premium is unclear for families headed by same-sex couples. Married same-sex couples tend to have more poverty than their cohabiting peers when we move beyond the poverty incidence, with differences among these two groups in the very low tail of their income distributions. Far from the stereotype that married same-sex couples are well off, our results suggest the existence of higher extreme poverty among married female same-sex couples.
Evaluation of the physicochemical, heavy metal and radiological contamination from phosphogypsum discharges of the phosphoric acid production unit on the coast of El Jadida Province in Morocco
Authors: Arhouni Fatima Ezzahra , Hakkar Mohammed , Ouakkas Saad , Haneklaus Nils , Boukhair Aziz , Nourreddine Abdelmjid , Benjelloun Mohammed
Published: August 2023

This work assesses potential physicochemical, metallic, and radiological contamination of liquid discharges from the phosphoric acid (PA) production unit at the coast of El Jadida Province in Morocco. The physicochemical parameters: pH, conductivity, salinity, turbidity, total hardness, nitrate, nitrite, orthophosphate, and heavy metals were analyzed in PA and beach samples. 238U, 232Th, and 226Ra were determined by gamma spectrometry, the Radon contents were determined using solid state detectors (LR-115). It is concluded that phosphate effluents are strongly acidic with a mean pH-value of 1.8 and that the discharges still contain relatively high levels of fluoride, phosphorus and radiological substances.
Robustness of resistance surface optimisations: sampling schemes and genetic distance metrics affect inferences in landscape genetics
Authors: Schleimer Anna , Luttringer Amanda , Wittische Julian , Drygala Frank , Proess Roland , Cantú-Salazar Lisette , Frantz Alain C.
Published: August 2023

Context

Landscape genetics provides powerful tools to quantify the effects of landscape features on population connectivity, but robust results are imperative to inform conservation planning.

Objectives

The robustness of landscape genetic inferences was assessed using the case of the northern crested newt (Triturus cristatus) in Luxembourg. Specifically, the effect of different study designs and genetic distance metrics was tested in terms of model convergence and misspecification rates (Type I error).

Methods

The optimisation of resistance surfaces was performed in ResistanceGA, using individual- and population-based sampling designs and 16 genetic distance metrics inferred from 897 multilocus genotypes from 85 locations. Empirical results were complemented with simulations to assess Type I error rates and correlation between ‘true’ and optimised resistance surfaces.

Results

Individual-based optimisations seemed prone to overfitting, with little convergence among empirical resistance surfaces from different sets of individuals. Simulations showed significant differences in performance among population genetic distance metrics. Linear topographical features exhibited higher Type I error rates (83.3%) than continuous features (44.9%), suggesting potential underestimation of road-induced fragmentation effects. Jost’sD,$${F}_{ST}$$FST, and PCA axes 1–45 were the top three genetic distance metrics for recovering true resistance features. Topographic roughness consistently drove spatial genetic clustering ofT. cristatus,but variability existed among conductivity maps derived from optimised resistance surfaces.

Conclusions

These findings underscore the importance of carefully selecting genetic distance metrics and addressing potential sources of uncertainty in resistance surface optimisation. By doing so, we can enhance the effectiveness of conservation planning efforts forT. cristatusand species with similar ecological considerations.
Sensing performance of Fano resonance induced by the coupling of two 1D topological photonic crystals
Authors: Mohamed Zain Elabdeen A. , Elshahat Sayed , Abd-Elnaiem Alaa M. , Almokhtar Mohamed
Published: August 2023

In this work, a realized Fano resonance due to the coupling between two 1DTPC is proposed for refractive index sensing with an ultra-high-quality factor of 106. The generated Fano can be assigned to the coupling between topological edge states of two 1D TPCs. The resulting Fano peak is characteristic with a high transmission value reach to 99% with high sensing performance parameters making the proposed sensor a novel detector for refractive index. The proposed coupling 1D TPCs show a high sensitivity value of 888.252 nm/RIU, ultra-high-quality factor and figure of merit value reach 106, and perfect detection limit value of 10−7. The proposed coupling 1D TPCs provides a straightforward platform for sensing refractive index applications with high performance.
Energy Intensified Nitrogen Fixation Through Fast Modulated Gas Discharge from Pyramid-shaped Micro-electrode
Authors: Lamichhane Pradeep , Pourali Nima , Rebrov Evgeny V. , Hessel Volker
Published: August 2023

Plasma-assisted nitrogen fixation has emerged as a promising alternative to conventional nitrogen fixation methods. In this study, we investigate the feasibility of plasma-assisted nitrogen fixation using an AC-driven dielectric barrier discharge generated from the micro-tips of a specially designed fast-modulated pyramid-shaped electrode. The obtained result is compared with the conventional flat electrode. Our results demonstrate that pyramid-shaped micro-tip electrodes can excite more nitrogen molecules than flat electrodes. Thus, pyramid electrodes have 58% more nitrogen oxides yield efficiency at 32% less energy cost. The highest nitrogen fixation is attained at 60% to 70% of oxygen concentration in nitrogen-feeding gas. These findings suggest that discharge through microtip is a promising and viable technology that could play a significant role in reducing the energy cost of the plasma-assisted nitrogen fixation method to meet the growing demand for sustainable nitrogen-based fertilizers.
Examining the Naringin Content and Sensory Characteristics of Functional Chocolate Fortified with Grapefruit Peel Extract
Authors: Ajtony Zsolt , Sik Beatrix , Csuti Aron
Published: August 2023

Grapefruit peel contains a high concentration of naringin- a potent antioxidant with strong bioactive properties. In this study, a new type of functional chocolate fortified with grapefruit peel extract and different concentrations of aqueous methanol and ethanol were evaluated as extraction solvents. A new high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method to analyze the naringin content of the fortified chocolates was developed with a recovery of 107% ± 3.1% and repeatability below 3.5%. A sensory evaluation was conducted to assess the preference for the chocolates among individuals who self-described a preference for bitter flavors. No significant preference was observed in the cases of astringency and aftertaste while the increased bitterness proved to be favorable. However, taste, flavor and overall acceptability were regarded somewhat less favorably. While chocolate proved to be a satisfactory carrier for naringin and had several enjoyable characteristics, further research may focus on improving the organoleptic properties of chocolates fortified by naringin.
Digital dashboards for oral anticoagulation management: a literature scoping review
Authors: Wilson Aaron S. , Triller Darren M. , Allen Arthur , Burnett Allison , Gouveia-Pisano Julie Ann , Brenner Allison , Pritchard Barbara , Medico Charles , Vazquez Sara R. , Witt Dan M. , Barnes Geoffrey D.
Published: August 2023

This scoping review summarizes the extent and characteristics of the published literature describing digital population management dashboards implemented to improve the quality of anticoagulant management. A standardized search protocol was executed to identify relevant manuscripts published between January 1, 2015 and May 31, 2022. The resulting records were systematically evaluated by multiple blinded reviewers and the findings from selected papers were evaluated and summarized. Twelve manuscripts were identified, originating from 5 organizations within the US and 2 from other countries. The majority (75%) described implementation in the outpatient setting. The identified papers described a variety of positive results of dashboard use, including a 24.5% reduction of questionable direct oral anticoagulant dosing in one organization, a 33.3% relative improvement in no-show appointments in an ambulatory care clinic, and a 75% improvement in intervention efficiency. One medical center achieved a 98.4% risk-appropriate venous thromboembolism risk prophylaxis prescribing rate and 40.6% reduction in anticoagulation-related adverse event rates. The manuscripts primarily described retrospective findings from single-center dashboard implementation experiences. Digital dashboards have been successfully implemented to support the anticoagulation of acute and ambulatory patients and available manuscripts suggest a positive impact on care-related processes and relevant patient outcomes. Prospective studies are needed to better characterize the implementation and impact of dashboards for anticoagulation management. Published reports suggest that digital dashboards may improve the quality, safety, and efficiency of anticoagulation management. Additional research is needed to validate these findings and to understand how best to implement these tools.