bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Isolated But Not Necessarily Lonely
Authors: Galgali Madhwa S. , Helm Peter J. , Arndt Jamie
Published: March 2024

Abstract: Previous research points to social/affiliative needs as playing an important role in orienting people towards conspiratorial thinking. Yet no research to date has compared the relative contribution of different forms of subjective interpersonal isolation to general conspiracist ideation (CI). Four studies ( N = 2,452) compare the associations between three forms of subjective isolation (loneliness, existential isolation, alienation/anomie) and CI. Results from Studies 1–3 indicate that existential isolation and alienation, but not loneliness, independently predict higher CI over and above other relevant predictors. Study 4 found that after controlling for relevant covariates, only anomie predicted CI. Exploratory analyses revealed that unique effects of existential isolation on CI emerged when the breakdown of the leadership subdimension of anomie was excluded from the model. Implications of the four studies are discussed.
Seawater Intrusion at the Grounding Line of Jakobshavn Isbræ, Greenland, From Terrestrial Radar Interferometry
Authors: Kim Jae Hun , Rignot Eric , Holland David , Holland Denise
Published: March 2024

Jakobshavn Isbræ, a major outlet glacier in Greenland, lost its protective ice shelf in 2002 and has been speeding up and retreating since. We image its grounding line for the first time with a terrestrial radar interferometer deployed in 2016 and detect its migration at tidal frequencies. The southern half of the glacier develops a floating section (3 km × 3 km) that migrates in phase with the tidal difference, up to a distance of 2.8 km, far more than previously expected. We attribute the migration to kilometer‐scale seawater intrusions, 10–20 cm in height, with the tide. The intrusions reveal that the glacier bed may be up to 800 m deeper than expected on the south side, which illustrates that our knowledge of bed topography remains limited for this glacier. We expect seawater intrusions to cause rapid melt of basal ice and play a major role in the glacier evolution.
An Analytical Solution for Variable Viscosity Flow in Fractured Media: Development and Comparative Analysis With Numerical Simulations
Authors: Younes Anis , Rajabi Mohammad Mahdi , Rezaiezadeh Roukerd Fatemeh , Fahs Marwan
Published: March 2024

Explicit fracture models often use analytical solutions for predicting flow in fractured media, usually assuming uniform fluid viscosity for simplicity. This assumption, however, can be inaccurate as fluid viscosity varies due to factors like composition, temperature, and dissolved substances. Our study, recognizing these discrepancies, abandons this uniform viscosity assumption for a more realistic model of variable viscosity flow, focusing on viscous displacement scenarios. This includes instances like injecting viscous surfactants for hydrocarbon recovery in fractured reservoirs or soil decontamination. This presents a significant challenge, enhancing our understanding of transport within fractures, mainly governed by advection. Our study centers on a low‐permeability rock matrix intersected by two fractures with variable apertures. We employ two methods: an analytical approach with a new solution and numerical simulations with two distinct in‐house codes, discretizing both the rock matrix and fractures with two‐dimensional triangular elements. The first code uses a Discontinuous Galerkin finite element method, while the second utilizes a finite‐volume method, allowing a comprehensive comparison of solutions. Additionally, we investigate parameter identifiability, like fracture apertures and viscosity ratios, using breakthrough curves from our analytical solution, applying the Markov Chain Monte Carlo technique.
Submarine Avalanche Deposits Hold Clues to Past Earthquakes
Authors: Sahakian Valerie , Kilb Debi , Gomberg Joan , Nieminski Nora , Covault Jake
Published: March 2024

Scientists are making progress on illuminating how undersea sedimentary deposits called turbidites form and on reconstructing the complex histories they record. But it’s not an easy task.
Marine Strontium Isotope Evolution at the Triassic‐Jurassic Transition Links Transient Changes in Continental Weathering to Volcanism of the Central Atlantic Magmatic Province
Authors: Heszler Bernát , Katchinoff Joachim , Palcsu László , Horváth Anikó , Vallner Zsolt , Kovács Emma Blanka , Planavsky Noah , Pálfy József
Published: March 2024

The end‐Triassic extinction (ETE) is one of the most severe biotic crises in the Phanerozoic. This event was synchronous with volcanism of the Central Atlantic Magmatic Province (CAMP), the ultimate cause of the extinction and related environmental perturbations. However, the continental weathering response to CAMP‐induced warming remains poorly constrained. Strontium isotope stratigraphy is a powerful correlation tool that can also provide insights into the changes in weathering regime, but the scarcity of 87Sr/86Sr data across the Triassic‐Jurassic boundary (TJB) hindered the use of this method. Here we present new high‐resolution 87Sr/86Sr data from bulk carbonates at Csővár, a continuous marine section that spans 2.5 Myrs across the TJB. We document a continuing decrease in 87Sr/86Sr ratio from the late Rhaetian to the ETE, terminated by a 300 kyr interval of a flat trend and followed by a transient increase in the early Hettangian that levels off. We suggest that the first in the series of perturbations is linked to the influx of non‐radiogenic Sr from the weathering of freshly erupted CAMP basalts, leading to a delay in the radiogenic continental weathering response. The subsequent rise in 87Sr/86Sr after the TJB is explained by intensified continental crustal weathering from elevated CO2 levels and reduced mantle‐derived Sr flux. Using Sr flux modeling, we also find support for such multiphase, prolonged continental weathering scenarios. Aggregating the new data set with published records employing an astrochronological age model results in a highly resolved Sr isotope reference curve for an 8.5 Myr interval around the TJB.
The potential of baicalin to enhance neuroprotection and mitochondrial function in a human neuronal cell model
Authors: Liu Zoe S. J. , Truong Trang T. T. , Bortolasci Chiara C. , Spolding Briana , Panizzutti Bruna , Swinton Courtney , Kim Jee Hyun , Hernández Damián , Kidnapillai Srisaiyini , Gray Laura , Berk Michael , Dean Olivia M. , Walder Ken
Published: March 2024

Baicalin is a flavone glycoside derived from flowering plants belonging to the Scutellaria genus. Previous studies have reported baicalin’s anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties in rodent models, indicating the potential of baicalin in neuropsychiatric disorders where alterations in numerous processes are observed. However, the extent of baicalin’s therapeutic effects remains undetermined in a human cell model, more specifically, neuronal cells to mimic the brain environment in vitro. As a proof of concept, we treated C8-B4 cells (murine cell model) with three different doses of baicalin (0.1, 1 and 5 μM) and vehicle control (DMSO) for 24 h after liposaccharide-induced inflammation and measured the levels of TNF-α in the medium by ELISA. NT2-N cells (human neuronal-like cell model) underwent identical baicalin treatment, followed by RNA extraction, genome-wide mRNA expression profiles and gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA). We also performed neurite outgrowth assays and mitochondrial flux bioanalysis (Seahorse) in NT2-N cells. We found that in C8-B4 cells, baicalin at ≥ 1 μM exhibited anti-inflammatory effects, lowering TNF-α levels in the cell culture media. In NT2-N cells, baicalin positively affected neurite outgrowth and transcriptionally up-regulated genes in the tricarboxylic acid cycle and the glycolysis pathway. Similarly, Seahorse analysis showed increased oxygen consumption rate in baicalin-treated NT2-N cells, an indicator of enhanced mitochondrial function. Together, our findings have confirmed the neuroprotective and mitochondria enhancing effects of baicalin in human-neuronal like cells. Given the increased prominence of mitochondrial mechanisms in diverse neuropsychiatric disorders and the paucity of mitochondrial therapeutics, this suggests the potential therapeutic application of baicalin in human neuropsychiatric disorders where these processes are altered.
RAPP-containing arrest peptides induce translational stalling by short circuiting the ribosomal peptidyltransferase activity
Authors: Morici Martino , Gabrielli Sara , Fujiwara Keigo , Paternoga Helge , Beckert Bertrand , Bock Lars V. , Chiba Shinobu , Wilson Daniel N.
Published: March 2024

Arrest peptides containing RAPP (ArgAlaProPro) motifs have been discovered in both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, where they are thought to regulate expression of important protein localization machinery components. Here we determine cryo-EM structures of ribosomes stalled on RAPP arrest motifs in both Bacillus subtilis and Escherichia coli. Together with molecular dynamics simulations, our structures reveal that the RAPP motifs allow full accommodation of the A-site tRNA, but prevent the subsequent peptide bond from forming. Our data support a model where the RAP in the P-site interacts and stabilizes a single hydrogen atom on the Pro-tRNA in the A-site, thereby preventing an optimal geometry for the nucleophilic attack required for peptide bond formation to occur. This mechanism to short circuit the ribosomal peptidyltransferase activity is likely to operate for the majority of other RAPP-like arrest peptides found across diverse bacterial phylogenies.
Examining preharvest genetic and morphological factors contributing to lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) shelf-life
Authors: Chase Kathryn , Belisle Catherine , Ahlawat Yogesh , Yu Fahong , Sargent Steven , Sandoya Germán , Begcy Kevin , Liu Tie
Published: March 2024

Lettuce is a highly perishable horticultural crop with a relatively short shelf-life that limits its commercial value and contributes to food waste. Postharvest senescence varies with influences of both environmental and genetic factors. From a larger pool of romaine lettuce genotypes, we identified three genotypes with variable shelf lives and evaluated their leaf morphology characteristics and transcriptomic profiles at preharvest to predict postharvest quality. Breeding line 60184 had the shortest shelf-life (SSL), cultivar ‘Manatee’ had an intermediate shelf-life (ISL), and ‘Okeechobee’ had the longest shelf-life (LSL). We observed significantly larger leaf lamina thickness and higher stomatal index in the SSL genotypes relative to the LSL cultivar. To identify molecular indicators of shelf-life, we used a transcriptional approach between two of the contrasting genotypes, breeding line 60184 and cultivar ‘Okeechobee’ at preharvest. We identified 552 upregulated and 315 downregulated differentially expressed genes between the genotypes, from which 27% of them had an Arabidopsis thaliana ortholog previously characterized as senescence associated genes (SAGs). Notably, we identified several SAGs including several related to jasmonate ZIM-domain jasmonic acid signaling, chlorophyll a–b binding, and cell wall modification including pectate lyases and expansins. This study presented an innovative approach for identifying preharvest molecular factors linked to postharvest traits for prolonged shelf.
Therapists and patients perceptions of a mixed reality system designed to improve trunk control and upper extremity function
Authors: Scheermesser M. , Baumgartner D. , Nast I. , Bansi J. , Kool J. , Bischof P. , Bauer C. M.
Published: March 2024

A prototype system aimed at improving arm function and trunk control after stroke has been developed that combines mixed-reality (MR) feedback with a mobile seat system (Holoreach). The purpose of this study was to assess the usability of Holoreach in a rehabilitation setting from both the patient and therapist perspective. Ten therapists (eight physiotherapists and two occupational therapists) used the device in their regular therapy programs for fifteen stroke patients with trunk control issues. Each patient received four individual therapy sessions with the device performed under the supervision of the therapist. Therapists and patients kept therapy diaries and used customized questionnaires. At the end of the study two focus groups were conducted to further assess usability. Generally, the prototype system is suitable for training trunk and arm control. The therapists expressed overall positive views on the impact of Holoreach. They characterized it as new, motivating, fresh, joyful, interesting, and exciting. All therapists and 80% of the patients agreed with the statement that training with Holoreach is beneficial for rehabilitation. Nonetheless, improvements are required in the hardware and software, and design. The prototype system contributes at various levels to the rapidly evolving advances in neurorehabilitation, particularly regarding the practical aspect of exercise delivery.
Race and geography impact validity of maximum allowable standing height equations for para-athletes
Authors: Baum Brian S. , Man Constance
Published: March 2024

World Athletics use maximum allowable standing height (MASH) equations for para-athletes with bilateral lower extremity amputations to estimate stature and limit prosthesis length since longer prostheses can provide running performance advantages. The equations were developed using a white Spanish population; however, validation for other races and geographical groups is limited. This study aimed to determine the validity of the MASH equations for Black and white Americans and whether bias errors between calculated and measured stature were similar between these populations. Sitting height, thigh length, upper arm length, forearm length, and arm span of 1899 male and 1127 female Black and white Americans from the Anthropometric Survey of US Army Personnel database were input into the 6 sex-specific MASH equations to enable comparisons of calculated and measured statures within and between Black and white groups. Two of 12 MASH equations validly calculated stature for Black Americans and 3 of 12 equations were valid for white Americans. Bias errors indicated greater underestimation or lesser overestimation of calculated statures in 10 equations for Black compared to white Americans and in 2 equations for white compared to Black Americans. This study illustrates that race and geography impact the validity of MASH equations.
STELA: a community-centred approach to norm elicitation for AI alignment
Authors: Bergman Stevie , Marchal Nahema , Mellor John , Mohamed Shakir , Gabriel Iason , Isaac William
Published: March 2024

Value alignment, the process of ensuring that artificial intelligence (AI) systems are aligned with human values and goals, is a critical issue in AI research. Existing scholarship has mainly studied how to encode moral values into agents to guide their behaviour. Less attention has been given to the normative questions of whose values and norms AI systems should be aligned with, and how these choices should be made. To tackle these questions, this paper presents the STELA process (SocioTEchnical Language agent Alignment), a methodology resting on sociotechnical traditions of participatory, inclusive, and community-centred processes. For STELA, we conduct a series of deliberative discussions with four historically underrepresented groups in the United States in order to understand their diverse priorities and concerns when interacting with AI systems. The results of our research suggest that community-centred deliberation on the outputs of large language models is a valuable tool for eliciting latent normative perspectives directly from differently situated groups. In addition to having the potential to engender an inclusive process that is robust to the needs of communities, this methodology can provide rich contextual insights for AI alignment.
Enriched atlas of lncRNA and protein-coding genes for the GRCg7b chicken assembly and its functional annotation across 47 tissues
Authors: Degalez Fabien , Charles Mathieu , Foissac Sylvain , Zhou Haijuan , Guan Dailu , Fang Lingzhao , Klopp Christophe , Allain Coralie , Lagoutte Laetitia , Lecerf Frédéric , Acloque Hervé , Giuffra Elisabetta , Pitel Frédérique , Lagarrigue Sandrine
Published: March 2024

Gene atlases for livestock are steadily improving thanks to new genome assemblies and new expression data improving the gene annotation. However, gene content varies across databases due to differences in RNA sequencing data and bioinformatics pipelines, especially for long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) which have higher tissue and developmental specificity and are harder to consistently identify compared to protein coding genes (PCGs). As done previously in 2020 for chicken assemblies galgal5 and GRCg6a, we provide a new gene atlas, lncRNA-enriched, for the latest GRCg7b chicken assembly, integrating "NCBI RefSeq", "EMBL-EBI Ensembl/GENCODE" reference annotations and other resources such as FAANG and NONCODE. As a result, the number of PCGs increases from 18,022 (RefSeq) and 17,007 (Ensembl) to 24,102, and that of lncRNAs from 5789 (RefSeq) and 11,944 (Ensembl) to 44,428. Using 1400 public RNA-seq transcriptome representing 47 tissues, we provided expression evidence for 35,257 (79%) lncRNAs and 22,468 (93%) PCGs, supporting the relevance of this atlas. Further characterization including tissue-specificity, sex-differential expression and gene configurations are provided. We also identified conserved miRNA-hosting genes with human counterparts, suggesting common function. The annotated atlas is available at gega.sigenae.org
Decomposing rural-urban gap in unsafe disposal practice of child stool in India using nationwide sample survey data
Authors: Roy Avijit , Rahaman Margubur , Chouhan Pradip
Published: March 2024

A significant rural–urban disparity in unsafe child stool disposal practices exists in India, yet existing research falls short in identifying the contributing factors to this gap. This study addresses the research gap by contextualizing the rural–urban divide in unsafe child stool disposal using data from the fifth round of the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5, 2019–21). In particular, the study examines the prevalence and predictors of unsafe disposal practices, exploring associated contributing factors to this gap. The study involves a sample of 78,074 women aged 15–49 with a living child under 2 years, without any missing data related to the study interest. Employing descriptive statistics, the Pearson chi-square test, multilevel logistic regression, and the Fairlie decomposition model, the research aims to fulfill its objectives. The rural–urban gap in unsafe child stool disposal practices among the study participants was 22.3 percentage points (pp), with a more pronounced gap among the Scheduled Tribes (ST). Notably, the gap was particularly wide in Madhya Pradesh (33.9 pp), Telangana (27.5 pp), Gujarat (26.1 pp), and Rajasthan (25.8 pp). Predictors such as mother’s education, mass media exposure, household wealth quintile, and sanitation facilities proved significant irrespective of residence. However, religion, social group, and water facility on household premises emerged as significant factors in rural areas only. The study identified that 67% of the explained gap in unsafe child stool disposal practices was attributed to the rural–urban difference in household wealth. Other noteworthy contributors were ‘household sanitation facility’ (21.3%), ‘mother’s education level’ (3.9%), and ‘water facility on household premises’ (3.9%). These findings underscore the need for population and area-specific policy interventions, especially for individuals from socio-economically disadvantaged backgrounds, those with lower education levels, and limited exposure to mass media, particularly in states with a high prevalence of unsafe disposal practices. Such interventions are crucial to mitigating the existing rural–urban gap in unsafe child stool disposal practices.
Impact of using virtual avatars in educational videos on user experience
Authors: Zhang Ruyuan , Wu Qun
Published: March 2024

Popularization of knowledge is of considerable importance and necessity, and traditional knowledge popularization activities suffer from high cost and low acceptance, which affect their effectiveness and coverage. Applying virtual avatars to educational videos may be an effective way to solve the problem. This study investigates the impact of applying virtual avatars to educational videos on user experience. Constructed a model of the impact of user experience on educational videos with virtual avatars, collected data from the target population, and analyzed it empirically. The video quality and virtual avatar expressiveness dimensions of the influencing factors have a significant positive effect on the learning effect, emotional experience and user engagement dimensions of user experience; the content quality dimension of the influencing factors has a significant negative effect on the three dimensions of user experience. The video quality and virtual avatar expressiveness dimensions of the influencing factors have a significant positive effect on the learning effect, emotional experience and user engagement dimensions of user experience; the content quality dimension of the influencing factors has a significant negative effect on the three dimensions of user experience.
Impact of anemia requiring transfusion or erythropoiesis-stimulating agents on new-onset cardiovascular events and mortality after continuous renal replacement therapy
Authors: Jeon Junseok , Kang Danbee , Park Hyejeong , Lee Kyungho , Lee Jung Eun , Huh Wooseong , Cho Juhee , Jang Hye Ryoun
Published: March 2024

Anemia is common in critically ill patients undergoing continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT). We investigated the impact of anemia requiring red blood cell (RBC) transfusion or erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs) on patient outcomes after hospital discharge in critically ill patients with acute kidney injury (AKI) requiring CRRT. In this retrospective cohort study using the Health Insurance Review and Assessment database of South Korea, 10,923 adult patients who received CRRT for 3 days or more between 2010 and 2019 and discharged alive were included. Anemia was defined as the need for RBC transfusion or ESAs. Outcomes included cardiovascular events (CVEs) and all-cause mortality after discharge. The anemia group showed a tendency to be older with more females and had more comorbidities compared to the control group. Anemia was not associated with an increased risk of CVEs (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR]: 1.05; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.85–1.29), but was associated with an increased risk of all-cause mortality (aHR: 1.41; 95% CI 1.30–1.53). For critically ill patients with AKI requiring CRRT, anemia, defined as requirement for RBC transfusion or ESAs, may increase the long-term risk of all-cause mortality.
Cerebellar state estimation enables resilient coupling across behavioural domains
Authors: Palacios Ensor Rafael , Chadderton Paul , Friston Karl , Houghton Conor
Published: March 2024

Cerebellar computations are necessary for fine behavioural control and may rely on internal models for estimation of behaviourally relevant states. Here, we propose that the central cerebellar function is to estimate how states interact with each other, and to use these estimates to coordinates extra-cerebellar neuronal dynamics underpinning a range of interconnected behaviours. To support this claim, we describe a cerebellar model for state estimation that includes state interactions, and link this model with the neuronal architecture and dynamics observed empirically. This is formalised using the free energy principle, which provides a dual perspective on a system in terms of both the dynamics of its physical—in this case neuronal—states, and the inferential process they entail. As a demonstration of this proposal, we simulate cerebellar-dependent synchronisation of whisking and respiration, which are known to be tightly coupled in rodents, as well as limb and tail coordination during locomotion. In summary, we propose that the ubiquitous involvement of the cerebellum in behaviour arises from its central role in precisely coupling behavioural domains.
Pore-scale simulation of low-salinity waterflooding in mixed-wet systems: effect of corner flow, surface heterogeneity and kinetics of wettability alteration
Authors: Ahmadi-Falavarjani Ali , Mahani Hassan , Ayatollahi Shahab
Published: March 2024

The initial wettability state of the candidate oil reservoirs for low-salinity waterflooding (LSWF) is commonly characterized as mixed-wet. In mixed-wet systems, both the two-phase flow dynamics and the salt transport are significantly influenced by the corner flow of the wetting phase. Thus this study aims at comprehensive evaluation of LSWF efficiency by capturing the effect of corner flow and non-uniform wettability distribution. In this regard, direct numerical simulations under capillary-dominated flow regime were performed using the OpenFOAM Computational Fluid Dynamics toolbox. The results indicate that corner flow results in the transport of low-salinity water ahead of the primary fluid front and triggers a transition in the flow regime from a piston-like to multi-directional displacement. This then makes a substantial difference of 22% in the ultimate oil recovery factors between the 2D and quasi-3D models. Furthermore, the interplay of solute transport through corners and wettability alteration kinetics can lead to a new oil trapping mechanism, not reported in the literature, that diminishes LSWF efficiency. While the findings of this study elucidate that LSWF does exhibit improved oil recovery compared to high-salinity waterflooding, the complicating phenomena in mixed-wet systems can significantly affect the efficiency of this method and make it less successful.
Efficacy of an inflatable deterrent for reducing New World vulture human-wildlife conflict
Authors: Kluever Bryan M. , Evans Betsy A. , Osterhoudt Noah M. , Tillman Eric A.
Published: March 2024

Increasing urbanization coupled with spatial expansion and numerical increase of New World vulture populations has engendered a rise in human-vulture conflict, creating a need for effective tools to mitigate vulture-related damage. Visual frightening devices that mimic the presence of human or other predators can be employed in human-vulture conflict scenarios to increase perceived risk by the pest species, thereby eliciting an antipredator behavioral response, such as fleeing. One visual frightening device, inflatable scarecrows, recently proved effective at reducing passerine attendance at feral swine feeders, but their effectiveness when directed at other species and conflict scenarios has varied. Our primary objective was to evaluate an inflatable deterrent for reducing the number of black (Coragyps atratus) and turkey vultures (Cathartes aura) present (hereafter abundance) at 13 human-vulture conflict sites throughout the southeastern United States. We predicted that vulture abundance would be substantially reduced when inflatable deterrents were deployed. Because we suspected other factors might also influence vulture site abundance, we also examined the exploratory variables of weather, site size (area), and vulture tolerance to human approach in relation to vulture site abundance using a model selection approach. Black vulture site abundance was more pervasive than turkey vultures, occurring at all sites and accounting for 85% of daily vulture counts (10.78 ± 0.52 vultures/site/day) whereas turkey vultures were only present at 62% of sites (2.12 ± 0.21). Across all sites, inflatable scarecrows were effective at reducing vulture abundance by 82% during the seventeen-day treatment period when deterrents were deployed (3.50 ± 0.20), but only a 48% reduction during the twenty-one-day post-treatment phase (15.34 ± 1.39) was observed. Site size and weather did not influence tool effectiveness. Human tolerance at sites, as determined by vulture flight initiation distance, was influential, with tool effectiveness being reduced at sites where local human tolerance was high. We recommend inflatable scarecrows as a tool to reduce vulture-wildlife conflict to private property and recreation at sites where the conflict is spatially restricted (e.g., parking lot or recreation area), conducive to scarecrow deployment (e.g., flat stable surfaces), and where vulture site human tolerance is low to moderate.
Entrepreneurial mental health in the wake of COVID-19 in China with an emphasis on attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and dyslexia analysis
Authors: Fan Yijun , Li Yuanzhe , Dong Zhengyuan , Ong May , Hope James
Published: March 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic has precipitated a global mental health crisis, with a particularly pronounced impact on the entrepreneurial sector. This paper presents a comparative analysis of mental health challenges among entrepreneurs in China during the pandemic, with a specific focus on attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and Dyslexia. The study assesses the prevalence of ADHD and dyslexia symptoms among established and emerging entrepreneurs in China, finding notable occurrences within this group. The research also examines the self-care practices of these entrepreneurs, shedding light on their approaches during the pandemic period. The findings highlight a complex interplay between mental health issues and entrepreneurial activities, suggesting that certain ADHD and dyslexia traits may offer unexpected benefits in the entrepreneurial realm. These insights are critical for developing supportive frameworks that leverage the strengths of neurodiverse entrepreneurs while mitigating associated challenges, especially in a post-pandemic economic landscape. The study concludes with policy and practice recommendations to bolster the wellbeing and resilience of entrepreneurs facing the multifaceted impacts of the pandemic.
Effects of a new magnetostrictive ultrasonic scaler and a traditional piezoelectric ultrasonic scaler on root surfaces and patient complaints
Authors: You Xiaoqing , Wu Xiaohong , Chen Shiwei
Published: March 2024

Tooth wear and pain are the primary concerns of patients undergoing periodontal scaling. The aims of this study were to compare the effects of a new magnetostrictive ultrasonic scaler and a traditional piezoelectric ultrasonic scaler on tooth surface roughness and calculus removal and to determine their impacts on patient discomfort during supragingival cleaning. This article had two parts: an in vitro study and a clinical study. In the in vitro study, thirty teeth with subgingival calculus were randomly assigned to two scaling treatment groups: magnetostrictive scalers (n = 15) and piezoelectric scalers (n = 15). Surface roughness measurements were taken at baseline and after scaling, and the root samples were visualised by SEM after scaling. Additionally, a single-centre randomised split-mouth clinical trial was conducted. Eighty-five participants diagnosed with chronic gingivitis or periodontitis were randomly assigned to receive supragingival scaling. The magnetostrictive scaler was used in half of the mouths (n = 85), and the piezoelectric scaler was used in the other half of the mouths (n = 85). Data on pain, noise, and vibration were collected using a VAS questionnaire, and the operating time was recorded. In both in vitro and clinical studies, magnetostrictive scalers were reported to be more effective than piezoelectric scalers in removing dental deposits (P < 0.05). Additionally, the root surface after scaling with the magnetostrictive scaler was smoother than that after scaling with the piezoelectric scaler in the in vitro study (P = 0.02). SEM examination also revealed that fewer dental materials were lost after instrumentation with the magnetostrictive scaler than after instrumentation with the piezoelectric scaler. Piezoelectric scalers caused less discomfort to patients in terms of pain, noise, and vibration than magnetostrictive scalers (P < 0.05). According to this clinical study, the magnetostrictive scaler caused more discomfort during supragingival scaling than the piezoelectric scaler. Moreover, the magnetostrictive scaler was also more efficient and produced a smoother root surface with less material loss after scaling than the piezoelectric scaler, as demonstrated in the in vitro study.
Structure–function analysis of PorXFj, the PorX homolog from Flavobacterium johnsioniae, suggests a role of the CheY-like domain in type IX secretion motor activity
Authors: Zammit Mariotte , Bartoli Julia , Kellenberger Christine , Melani Pauline , Roussel Alain , Cascales Eric , Leone Philippe
Published: March 2024

The type IX secretion system (T9SS) is a large multi-protein transenvelope complex distributed into the Bacteroidetes phylum and responsible for the secretion of proteins involved in pathogenesis, carbohydrate utilization or gliding motility. In Porphyromonas gingivalis, the two-component system PorY sensor and response regulator PorX participate to T9SS gene regulation. Here, we present the crystal structure of PorXFj, the Flavobacterium johnsoniae PorX homolog. As for PorX, the PorXFj structure is comprised of a CheY-like N-terminal domain and an alkaline phosphatase-like C-terminal domain separated by a three-helix bundle central domain. While not activated and monomeric in solution, PorXFj crystallized as a dimer identical to active PorX. The CheY-like domain of PorXFj is in an active-like conformation, and PorXFj possesses phosphodiesterase activity, in agreement with the observation that the active site of its phosphatase-like domain is highly conserved with PorX.
Analyzing the correlation between gastroesophageal reflux disease and anxiety and depression based on ordered logistic regression
Authors: Li Qian , Duan Hui , Wang Qiong , Dong Peiwen , Zhou Xinxu , Sun Kaidi , Tang Feng , Wang Xinxin , Lin Lin , Long Yanchan , Sun Xiaobin , Tao Lan
Published: March 2024

Numerous studies have indicated a connection between psychiatric symptoms, specifically anxiety and depression, and gastroesophageal reflux. However, the precise nature of the link between the severity of gastroesophageal reflux disease and the severity of anxiety and depression remains uncertain. Here, we gathered 24-h pH monitoring data and baseline patient information from a cohort of 518 individuals. Additionally, we evaluated their psychological well-being using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale. The relationship between baseline characteristics and varying degrees of anxiety, depression, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) was assessed using R software version 4.1.3 and logistic regression models. The findings indicate a statistically significant variation in anxiety levels based on gender, as well as a significant disparity in depression groups when considering age and literacy levels. Kruskal–Wallis test analysis revealed a significant positive correlation between the severity of anxiety and depression and the 24-h pH monitoring results in our patient cohort. As the anxiety and depression levels increased, the rank mean for each examination result also increased. Logistic regression modeling analysis showed that a higher anxiety level was associated with a higher level of GERD. In the presence of mild anxiety, there is a statistically significant association with a higher incidence of GERD with an odds ratio (OR) of 2.64 (95% CI 1.50, 4.64). Similarly, the moderately severe anxiety group also exhibits a causal relationship with an increased GERD incidence, with an OR of 6.84 (95% CI 3.92, 12.17). Additionally, moderate to severe depression is associated with a higher incidence of GERD, with an OR of 2.32 (95% CI 1.23, 4.37). The prevalence of GERD was greater among males compared to females (OR 2.29, 95% CI 1.51–3.49). Additionally, an elevated body mass index (BMI) demonstrated a positive correlation with the susceptibility to GERD (OR 1.07, 95% CI 1.01–1.14). Increasing age may promote the occurrence of GERD in patients. These findings may help to provide a better basis for psychological or pharmacological interventions for GERD patients with psychosomatic symptoms in the future, and provide a reference basis for clinical treatment of the disease.
The impact of smart city construction (SCC) on pollution emissions (PE): evidence from China
Authors: Zhang GuoWei , Sun XianMin , Zhong Shen
Published: March 2024

Based on panel data from 210 prefecture-level cities in China from 2003 to 2021, this study employs the Time-Varying Differences-in-Differences (Time-Varying DID) approach to systematically examine the impact of smart city construction on pollution emissions and its underlying mechanisms. Additionally, the Propensity Score Matching–Differences-in-Differences method is employed for further validation. The research findings indicate that Smart City Construction (SCC) significantly reduces urban Volume of Sewage Discharge (VSD), sulfur dioxide emissions (SO2), and Emissions of Fumes and Dust (EFD), thereby mitigating pollution emissions (PE) and enhancing environmental quality. Mechanism analysis reveals that SCC achieves these effects through scale effects, structural effects, and technological effects. City heterogeneity analysis shows that provincial capital cities exhibit a stronger suppression effect on pollution emissions compared to non-provincial capital cities. Moreover, cities with lower levels of education attainment demonstrate a stronger ability to curb pollution emissions, while larger cities exhibit a more pronounced impact on mitigating pollution emissions. The marginal contributions of this study mainly consist of three aspects: Firstly, it enriches the literature on environmental impact factors by assessing, for the first time, the influence of SCC on PE. Secondly, a comprehensive approach is employed, integrating VSD, EFD, SO2 data, and economic and pollution data at the city level. Time-Varying DID is used to evaluate the policy effects of SCC. Finally, the study analyzes the impact mechanisms of SCC policy on environmental emissions from various perspectives.
No adverse association between exercise exposure and diffuse myocardial fibrosis in male endurance athletes
Authors: Andresen Kristoffer , Klæboe Lars Gunnar , Lie Øyvind Haugen , Broch Kaspar , Kvaslerud Anette Borger , Bosse Gerhard , Hopp Einar , de Lange Charlotte , Haugaa Kristina Hermann , Edvardsen Thor
Published: March 2024

The potential association between endurance exercise and myocardial fibrosis is controversial. Data on exercise exposure and diffuse myocardial fibrosis in endurance athletes are scarce and conflicting. We aimed to investigate the association between exercise exposure and markers of diffuse myocardial fibrosis by cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging (CMR) in endurance athletes. We examined 27 healthy adult male competitive endurance athletes aged 41 ± 9 years and 16 healthy controls in a cross sectional study using 3 Tesla CMR including late gadolinium enhancement and T1 mapping. Athletes reported detailed exercise history from 12 years of age. Left ventricular total mass, cellular mass and extracellular mass were higher in athletes than controls (86 vs. 58 g/m2, 67 vs. 44 g/m2 and 19 vs. 13 g/m2, all p < 0.01). Extracellular volume (ECV) was lower (21.5% vs. 23.8%, p = 0.03) and native T1 time was shorter (1214 ms vs. 1268 ms, p < 0.01) in the athletes. Increasing exercise dose was independently associated with shorter native T1 time (regression coefficient − 24.1, p < 0.05), but expressed no association with ECV. Our results indicate that diffuse myocardial fibrosis has a low prevalence in healthy male endurance athletes and do not indicate an adverse dose–response relationship between exercise and diffuse myocardial fibrosis in healthy athletes.
Contrasting patterns of water use efficiency and annual radial growth among European beech forests along the Italian peninsula
Authors: Puchi Paulina F. , Dalmonech Daniela , Vangi Elia , Battipaglia Giovanna , Tognetti Roberto , Collalti Alessio
Published: March 2024

Tree mortality and forest dieback episodes are increasing due to drought and heat stress. Nevertheless, a comprehensive understanding of mechanisms enabling trees to withstand and survive droughts remains lacking. Our study investigated basal area increment (BAI), and δ13C-derived intrinsic water-use-efficiency (iWUE), to elucidate beech resilience across four healthy stands in Italy with varying climates and soil water availability. Additionally, fist-order autocorrelation (AR1) analysis was performed to detect early warning signals for potential tree dieback risks during extreme drought events. Results reveal a negative link between BAI and vapour pressure deficit (VPD), especially in southern latitudes. After the 2003 drought, BAI decreased at the northern site, with an increase in δ13C and iWUE, indicating conservative water-use. Conversely, the southern sites showed increased BAI and iWUE, likely influenced by rising CO2 and improved water availability. In contrast, the central site sustained higher transpiration rates due to higher soil water holding capacity (SWHC). Despite varied responses, most sites exhibited reduced resilience to future extreme events, indicated by increased AR1. Temperature significantly affected beech iWUE and BAI in northern Italy, while VPD strongly influenced the southern latitudes. The observed increase in BAI and iWUE in southern regions might be attributed to an acclimation response.
Role of the fatty pancreatic infiltration in pancreatic oncogenesis
Authors: Frendi Sonia , Martineau Chloé , Cazier Hélène , Nicolle Rémy , Chassac Anaïs , Albuquerque Miguel , Raffenne Jérôme , Le Faouder Julie , Paradis Valérie , Cros Jérôme , Couvelard Anne , Rebours Vinciane
Published: March 2024

Although pancreatic precancerous lesions are known to be related to obesity and fatty pancreatic infiltration, the mechanisms remain unclear. We assessed the role of fatty infiltration in the process of pancreatic oncogenesis and obesity. A combined transcriptomic, lipidomic and pathological approach was used to explore neoplastic transformations. Intralobular (ILF) and extralobular (ELF) lipidomic profiles were analyzed to search for lipids associated with pancreatic intraepithelial neoplasia (PanINs) and obesity; the effect of ILF and ELF on acinar tissue and the histopathological aspects of pancreatic parenchyma changes in obese (OB) and non-obese patients. This study showed that the lipid composition of ILF was different from that of ELF. ILF was related to obesity and ELF-specific lipids were correlated to PanINs. Acinar cells were shown to have different phenotypes depending on the presence and proximity to ILF in OB patients. Several lipid metabolic pathways, oxidative stress and inflammatory pathways were upregulated in acinar tissue during ILF infiltration in OB patients. Early acinar transformations, called acinar nodules (AN) were linked to obesity but not ELF or ILF suggesting that they are the first reversible precancerous pancreatic lesions to occur in OB patients. On the other hand, the number of PanINs was higher in OB patients and was positively correlated to ILF and ELF scores as well as to fibrosis. Our study suggests that two types of fat infiltration must be distinguished, ELF and ILF. ILF plays a major role in acinar modifications and the development of precancerous lesions associated with obesity, while ELF may play a role in the progression of PDAC.
Estimation of phase distortions of the photoplethysmographic signal in digital IIR filtering
Authors: Lapitan Denis G. , Rogatkin Dmitry A. , Molchanova Elizaveta A. , Tarasov Andrey P.
Published: March 2024

Pre-processing of the photoplethysmography (PPG) signal plays an important role in the analysis of the pulse wave signal. The task of pre-processing is to remove noise from the PPG signal, as well as to transmit the signal without any distortions for further analysis. The integrity of the pulse waveform is essential since many cardiovascular parameters are calculated from it using morphological analysis. Digital filters with infinite impulse response (IIR) are widely used in the processing of PPG signals. However, such filters tend to change the pulse waveform. The aim of this work is to quantify the PPG signal distortions that occur during IIR filtering in order to select a most suitable filter and its parameters. To do this, we collected raw finger PPG signals from 20 healthy volunteers and processed them by 5 main digital IIR filters (Butterworth, Bessel, Elliptic, Chebyshev type I and type II) with varying parameters. The upper cutoff frequency varied from 2 to 10 Hz and the filter order—from 2nd to 6th. To assess distortions of the pulse waveform, we used the following indices: skewness signal quality index (SSQI), reflection index (RI) and ejection time compensated (ETc). It was found that a decrease in the upper cutoff frequency leads to damping of the dicrotic notch and a phase shift of the pulse wave signal. The minimal distortions of a PPG signal are observed when using Butterworth, Bessel and Elliptic filters of the 2nd order. Therefore, we can recommend these filters for use in applications aimed at morphological analysis of finger PPG waveforms of healthy subjects.
Development of nucleic acid lateral flow immunoassay for molecular detection of Entamoeba moshkovskii and Entamoeba dispar in stool samples
Authors: Hutagalung Sunna Vyatra , Rattaprasert Pongruj , Promptmas Chamras , Moonsom Saengduen , Yongkiettrakul Suganya , Thima Kanthinich , Chavalitshewinkoon-Petmitr Porntip
Published: March 2024

Entamoeba moshkovskii, recently known as a possible pathogenic amoeba, and the non-pathogenic Entamoeba dispar are morphologically indistinguishable by microscopy. Although PCR was used for differential diagnosis, gel electrophoresis is labor-intensive, time-consuming, and exposed to hazardous elements. In this study, nucleic acid lateral flow immunoassay (NALFIA) was developed to detect E. moshkovskii and E. dispar by post-PCR amplicon analysis. E. moshkovskii primers were labeled with digoxigenin and biotin whereas primers of E. dispar were lebeled with FITC and digoxigenin. The gold nanoparticles were labeled with antibodies corresponding to particular labeling. Based on the established assay, NALFIA could detect as low as 975 fg of E. moshkovskii target DNA (982 parasites or 196 parasites/microliter), and 487.5 fg of E. dispar target DNA (444 parasites or 89 parasites/microliter) without cross-reactivity to other tested intestinal organisms. After testing 91 stool samples, NALFIA was able to detect seven E. moshkovskii (87.5% sensitivity and 100% specificity) and eight E. dispar samples (66.7% sensitivity and 100% specificity) compared to real-time PCR. Interestingly, it detected three mixed infections as real-time PCR. Therefore, it can be a rapid, safe, and effective method for the detection of the emerging pathogens E. moshkovskii and E. dispar in stool samples.
A comprehensive review of oxygen vacancy modified photocatalysts: synthesis, characterization, and applications
Authors: Zhan Faqi , Wen Guochang , Li Ruixin , Feng Chenchen , Liu Yisi , Liu Yang , Zhu Min , Zheng Yuehong , Zhao Yanchun , La Peiqing
Published: March 2024

A comprehensive review on oxygen vacancy modified photocatalysts including synthesis (controllability of location, content, etc.), characterization (qualitative, quantitative and locational analysis), and applications and mechanisms.
Low-temperature direct decomposition of NO over Rh/NC-MnFe catalyst: activity, stability and mechanism
Authors: Tan Xiao , Qi Suitao , Cheng Guangxu , Yi Chunhai , Yang Bolun
Published: March 2024

As the ideal NO removal technology, the biggest challenge associated with the direct catalytic decomposition of NO is the development of highly active deNOx catalysts at low temperatures.
Fucoxanthin restructures the gut microbiota and metabolic functions of non-obese individuals in an in vitro fermentation model
Authors: Guo Bingbing , Zhang Weihao , Zhou Yonghui , Zhang Jingyi , Zeng Chengchu , Sun Peipei , Liu Bin
Published: March 2024

Fucoxanthin improved the growth of Bacteroidota and Parabacteroides and altered bile acids and indoles in non-obese individuals in an in vitro digestion-fermentation model.