bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
REMEDIATE: Improving Network and Middlebox Resilience With Virtualisation
Authors: Hill Lyn , Rotsos Charalampos , Edwards Chris , Hutchison David
Published: December 2024

The increasing demand for low‐latency, high‐bandwidth connectivity has introduced novel challenges to delivering strong resilience guarantees in production network environments. Closed hardware platforms, known as middleboxes, that lack visibility and support for state retention remain a key challenge for continuous service delivery during network failures. These middleboxes rarely employ recovery mechanisms of their own, inspiring renewed interest in the field of NFV in recent years due to this gap within the industry. The increasing availability of VNF capabilities in modern infrastructures offers an opportunity to exploit the flexibility of software and use hybrid architectures to improve resilience. REMEDIATE is a high‐availability service that propagates state between unmodified hardware middleboxes and backup PNF or VNF appliances. The platform utilises targeted packet mirroring to allow network devices to organically construct equivalent state and thus allow an easy transition between hardware and software. To demonstrate its viability, we have evaluated REMEDIATE against a wide range of common hardware middlebox use cases built using multiple open‐source packet processing frameworks. Results show upwards of 90% matching state with no observable delay to normal traffic or impact on its functionality.
Förster Resonance Energy Transfer in Metal Halide Perovskite: Current Status and Future Prospects
Authors: Liu Siyang , Akram Waseem , Ye Fanghao , Jin JingCheng , Niu Fangfang , Ahmed Shakeel , Ouyang Zhengbiao , Dong Shou‐Cheng , Li Guijun
Published: December 2024

Förster Resonance Energy Transfer (FRET) is a non‐radiative energy transfer process in a donor‐acceptor system and has applications in various fields, such as single‐molecule investigations, biosensor creation, and deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) mechanics research. The investigation of FRET processes in metal halide perovskites has also attracted great attention from the community. The review aims to provide an up‐to‐date study of FRET in the context of perovskite systems. First, we discuss the fundamentals of FRET process, and then summarize the recent progress of FRET phenomenon in perovskite‐perovskite, perovskite‐inorganic fluorophores, perovskite‐organic fluorophores, and organic fluorophores‐perovskite systems. Finally, we speculate on the future prospects of roles of FRET in the implications for the overall performance of optoelectronic devices based on these systems, as well as the challenges in maximizing FRET efficiency.
A simple synthesis of supramolecular Polyamide12 via solid‐state melt reaction and its interlaminar properties in Carbon Fiber Reinforced Thermoplastics
Authors: Lee Jae Hoon , Kim Minkook , Song SeungHyeon , Choi Junseok , Jeong Yu‐Gyeong , Kim Kihyun , Choi Yong–Seok
Published: December 2024

Despite the exceptional mechanical properties of epoxy‐based carbon fiber‐reinforced plastic (CFRP), its commercial potential is limited due to high production costs and manufacturing difficulties. As a promising alternative, thermoplastic‐based CFRP (CFRTP) offers simpler manufacturing, lower cost, and recyclability. This study presents a strategy to overcome challenges for CFRTP manufacturing by using a low molecular weight (MW) thermoplastic that forms high‐MW assemblies via dynamic molecular interactions. A quadruple hydrogen‐bonding unit (UPy)‐end functional polyamide (PA‐UPy) was synthesized by simple solid‐state melt reaction of powdered mixture of PA12 and UPy‐containing isocyanate. An increase in tensile properties was observed with an increase in crystallinity by the adoption of UPy moiety. The adoption of PA‐UPy in CFRTP, prepared by simply stacking the powder and CF fabric followed by hot pressing, enhanced the composite's tensile and interlaminar properties. Therefore, this process is proposed as a simple and effective method to improve the mechanical properties of CFRTP.

Highlights

Synthesis of PA‐UPy achieved via solid‐state melt reaction of PA and UPy.

PA supramolecular structure boosts tensile strength and modulus of films and CFRTP.

UPy‐NCO doubles the interlaminar shear strength of PA‐UPy‐based CFRTP.
Carnivore salarymen and herbivore males: Kimi no Na wa and the shift to the omnivorous person
Authors: Miyose Colby Y.
Published: December 2024

Concerns of gender equality and fluidity has been a long‐standing issue in contemporary society for decades, however, recently, the pressing issue surrounding media representations of gender has come to the forefront. The rise of feminist studies over the last few decades has led to a cornucopia of research on manga and anime in relation to femininity, but fewer examine masculinity or gender fluidity. This paper will expand the study of both femininity and masculinity but will mainly focus on masculinity, in the form of the Carnivore Woman and the Herbivore Man, with an argument towards the “Omnivorous Person.” The omnivorous person can be thought of as an extension and paralleling to gender fluidity. As a highly accessible medium, through fantasy and metaphor, anime and manga have the ability to display a collective consciousness of Japanese society. To further elaborate on these new gender trends within Japanese popular media, a textual analysis of the anime film Kimi no Na wa (2016) will be used as exemplar. It is impossible to conduct any in‐depth study that is truly representative of a genre, especially considering the magnitude and vastness of manga and anime, however, selecting a text that is “popular” can suppose some degree of cultural relevance.
Determining Targets for Antiretroviral Drug Concentrations: A Causal Framework Illustrated With Pediatric Efavirenz Data From the CHAPAS‐3 Trial
Authors: Schomaker Michael , Denti Paolo , Bienczak Andrzej , Burger David , Díaz Iván , Gibb Diana M. , Walker Ann Sarah , McIlleron Helen
Published: December 2024

Background

Determining a therapeutic window for maintaining antiretroviral drug concentrations within an appropriate range is required for identifying effective dosing regimens. The limits of this window are typically calculated using predictive models. We propose that target concentrations should instead be calculated based on counterfactual probabilities of relevant outcomes and describe a counterfactual framework for this.

Methods

The proposed framework is applied in an analysis including longitudinal observational data from 125 HIV‐positive children treated with efavirenz‐based regimens within the CHAPAS‐3 trial, which enrolled children < 13 years in Zambia/Uganda. A directed acyclic graph was developed to visualize the mechanisms affecting antiretroviral concentrations. Causal concentration‐response curves, adjusted for measured time‐varying confounding of weight and adherence, are calculated using g‐computation.

Results

The estimated curves show that higher concentrations during follow‐up, 12/24 h after dose, lead to lower probabilities of viral failure (> 100 c/mL) at 96 weeks of follow‐up. Estimated counterfactual failure probabilities under the current target range of 1–4 mg/L range from 24% to about 2%. The curves are almost identical for slow, intermediate and extensive metabolizers and show that a mid‐dose concentration level of ≥ 3.5 mg/L would be required to achieve a failure probability of < 5%.

Conclusions

Our analyses demonstrate that a causal approach may lead to different minimum concentration limits than analyses that are based on purely predictive models. Moreover, the approach highlights that indirect causes of failure, such as patients' metabolizing status, may predict patients' failure risk, but do not alter the threshold at which antiviral activity of efavirenz is severely reduced.
Exploring the Multifunctional Properties of Tm‐Doped AlxGa1−xN Alloys: From Potoluminescence to Spintronics
Authors: Belhachi Soufyane , Merabet B. , Al‐Qaisi Samah , Goumri‐Said Souraya
Published: December 2024

This study delves into the electronic, magnetic, and optical properties of Tm‐doped wurtzite AlxGa1−xN alloys, utilizing first‐principles density functional theory (DFT) calculations. By applying the LSDA+U approach to capture the strong correlation effects of 4f‐Tm electrons, our findings reveal that Tm‐doped AlxGa1−xN exhibits semiconducting behavior with inherent ferromagnetic order. Remarkably, the bandgap of Tm‐doped AlxGa1−xN transitions from indirect to direct at an Al content (x) of 0.25, highlighting its potential for dual electrical and magnetic functionalities. The magnetic moments are highly localized at Tm sites, suggesting the feasibility of Tm as a dopant for developing AlGaN‐based diluted magnetic semiconductors. Moreover, the observed spin‐dependent characteristics and magnetic interactions in Tm‐doped AlxGa1−xN underscore its applicability in spintronic devices, including spin transistors and spin logic circuits, which could significantly advance next‐generation electronic systems. Additionally, the study predicts a blue shift in luminescence for Tm‐doped AlxGa1−xN, which is attributed to the interplay between Tm dopant energy levels, Al composition, and the host alloy's band structure, as well as energy transfer and quantum confinement effects. This positions Tm‐doped AlxGa1−xN as a promising material for applications in solid‐state lighting, displays, lasers, and other optoelectronic devices requiring blue light emission.
An In‐Depth Study on the Relativistic Thomas–Fermi Model: Improvements and Numerical Simulations
Authors: Nanni Luca
Published: December 2024

The relativistic Thomas–Fermi model is revisited in the framework of von Weizsacker's kinetic energy functional. This model, already studied by other authors, is optimized by weighting the von Weizsacker functional with a numerical parameter and introducing a retardation term in the potential energy functional to improve its predictivity when applied to systems with a complex electronic structure. These corrections avoid overestimating the total kinetic energy and underestimating the stabilizing effect of the Coulomb potential, respectively. The model is applied to neutral and ionized atoms with increasing atomic numbers to test the qualitative and quantitative predictivity goodness of the relativistic effects. Due to the simplicity of solving the relativistic equation by numerical methods, the proposed model could be an alternative or a supportive tool to other computational methods for studying the physicochemical properties of compounds containing heavy atoms.
Quest for SDG‐13: The Aptness of Green Investments and Information and Communications Technology (ICT) to Emission Mitigation Among Central‐African States
Authors: Onifade Stephen Taiwo , Musah Mohammed , Gyamfi Bright Akwasi , Agozie Divine Q. , Opoku‐Mensah Evans
Published: December 2024

The Sustainable Development Goal 13 (SDG‐13) enunciates the need to combat climate change by encouraging necessary actions to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, and this laudable goal was re‐echoed at COP‐28 in the UAE. Although negatively impacted by climate change, the vast literature is silent on the Central Africa (CA) region. Thus, we empirically dissect the emission‐mitigating roles of green investment while integrating the moderating influences of ICT, foreign capitals (FDI), and non‐renewable energy intake, within the region's economic expansion and population growth. We observe that economic expansion has a non‐linear impact on emissions (an inverted U‐Shaped pattern); with initial emission‐inducing effects from non‐renewable energy, financial development, population, and foreign capitals while green investment and ICT mitigate regional emissions. Subsequent expansion in indicators (green investments, FDI, and ICT) significantly mitigates emissions except for non‐renewable energy intake. Green investments' interactive impacts with overall financial development trends also enhance regional environmental goals. Overall, the study posits that CA states can potentially mitigate environmental degradation by leveraging ICT and green investments towards the realization of SDG‐13.
Zwitterionic Polymer Lipid Nanoparticles Enabling Selective Organ Targeting Delivery of Small Interfering RNA for the Treatment of Hepatic and Pulmonary Inflammation
Authors: Li Jiaxin , Wang Nan , Zhang Wen , Peng Chen , Zhang Xinyue , Li Muzi , Ouyang Guanghui , Li Yan
Published: December 2024

Lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) are clinically advanced small interfering RNA (siRNA) carriers, which can prevent the breakdown of siRNA during delivery and deliver siRNA into the cytoplasm to down‐regulate the target gene. However, clinical LNPs are limited to the liver, and enhancing extrahepatic targeting is vital to expand the application of LNPs in vivo. Here, zwitterionic polymer LNPs (ZP‐LNPs) are assembled with the zwitterionic polymer polycarboxybetaine (PCB) modified 1,2‐dimyristoylglycerol (DMG) lipid DMG‐PCBn can selectively deliver siRNA to liver and lung, respectively. Three libraries with 90 ZP‐LNPs are established by adjusting the degree of polymerization of DMG‐PCBn, the molar ratio of lipids, and the mass ratio between lipids and siRNA. Physicochemical and in vivo biodistribution results show that B4‐3@siRNA and B5‐1@siRNA with high siRNA encapsulation efficiency (>85%) achieve targeted siRNA delivery to the liver and lung, respectively. The mechanism findings indicate that pKa and protein corona are essential to determine the in vivo fate of ZP‐LNPs and tendency for specific organs. Importantly, these two ZP‐LNPs with siTNF‐α can effectively reduce the levels of tumor necrosis factor α (TNF‐α) in mice with hepatic inflammation and pulmonary inflammation, respectively, indicating their promising application for the treatment of diseases associated with liver and lung.
A Life of Systems Thinking: Michael C. Jackson in Conversation With Matt Lloyd and Rajneesh Chowdhury
Authors: Lloyd Matt , Chowdhury Rajneesh
Published: December 2024

This systems profile is a transcript of the conversation between Michael C. Jackson, Matt Lloyd and Rajneesh Chowdhury, held in 2023 at the University of Hull. The conversation provides a window onto the life and motivations of Jackson, covering his early life and education, his lifelong journey with systems thinking and his hopes for the future of the discipline. Jackson highlights the contribution of systems thinking to those areas where there is greater complexity and uncertainty. He delves into what drove him to craft critical systems thinking as a transdiscipline based on a pragmatist philosophy, understanding the strengths and weaknesses of methodologies from different traditions to aid practitioners in using them in combination. Jackson is optimistic about the future of systems thinking, highlighting that governments and businesses need to embrace it to cope better with the complexities they face.
Co3O4 Hybrid Electrocatalysts; Materials Description and Mechanistic Aspects Toward Hydrogen Production, Oxygen Evolution‐Reduction, and CO2 Reduction Reactions
Authors: Tahira Aneela , Padervand Mohsen , Dawi Elmuez , Aftab Umair , Ghasemi Shahnaz , Vigolo Brigitte , Tonezzer Matteo , Bidmeshkipour Samina , Baghernejad Masoud , Labidi Abdelkader , Lichtfouse Eric , Wang Chuanyi , Vomiero Alberto , Ibupoto Zafar Hussain
Published: December 2024

Controlling the adverse effects of global warming on human communities requires reducing carbon dioxide emissions and developing clean energy resources. Fossil fuel overuse damages the environment and raises sustainability concerns. As a resource‐rich element, cobalt oxide hybrids have attracted considerable attention as low‐priced and eco‐friendly electrocatalysts. Alkaline solutions disperse Co3O4 easily despite its highly stable nature, which arises from the reverse spinel structures of Co. Metal oxides, nickel foam, polymeric frameworks, and carbon nanotubes have been successfully served to combine with the Co3O4 constructions for improving the electrocatalytic performance. To date, no comprehensive study has systematically investigated the relation between the cobalt oxide hybrid's physicochemical‐electronic aspects and its catalytic features. This review mainly focuses on material design, fabrication, morphology, structural characteristics, and electroactivity, considering the critical factors towards practical applications. The economic impacts of the constructions and their expected contribution to large‐scale utilizations are also demonstrated. Moreover, this research discusses the synergistic effects of crucial electrochemical parameters on sustainable energy production over the Co3O4‐based hybrids. Finally, some beneficial conclusive suggestions are made based on emerging factors for real‐world application. Future research in the field aiming at developing sustainable and clean energy production technologies can effectively benefit from the findings of this report.
Advancements and Challenges in Adsorption‐Based Carbon Capture Technology: From Fundamentals to Deployment
Authors: Zentou Hamid , Aliyu Mansur , Abdalla Mahmoud A. , Abdelaziz Omar Y. , Hoque Bosirul , Alloush Ahmed M. , Tayeb Islam M. , Patchigolla Kumar , Abdelnaby Mahmoud M.
Published: December 2024

Carbon dioxide (CO2) adsorption on solid sorbents represents a promising technology for separating carbon from different sources and mitigating anthropogenic emissions. The complete integration of carbon capture technologies in various industrial sectors will be crucial for a sustainable, low‐carbon future. Despite developing new sorbents, a comprehensive strategy is essential to realize the full potential and widespread adoption of CO2 capture technologies, including different engineering aspects. This study discusses the pathway for deploying adsorption‐based carbon capture technology in fundamental material science aspects, thermo‐physical properties behavior at the molecular level, and industrial pilot scale demonstrations. When integrated with process simulation and economic evaluations, these techniques are instrumental in enhancing the efficiency and cost‐effectiveness of the capturing processes. While advancements in adsorption‐based carbon capture technologies have been notable, their deployment still encounters significant hurdles, including technical, economic, and environmental challenges. Leveraging hybrid systems, renewable energy integration, and the strategic application of emerging machine learning techniques appear promising to address global warming effectively and will consequently be discussed in this investigation.
Electrical Stress on Semiconductor Devices Mounted on PCB during Electrostatic Elimination by Corona Discharge Ionizer
Authors: Nakano Aguri , Okano Makoto , Terashige Takashi
Published: December 2024

Semiconductor devices mounted on printed circuit boards may be damaged by electrical stresses based on induced voltages due to the electric field generated by corona discharge ionizers during the static elimination, because the input line connected to the semiconductor device acts as an antenna terminating the electric field. An electrical stress sensor using an operational amplifier with an input line was mounted on a printed circuit board, in order to investigate the input line length dependence of the electrical stress due to the electric field by the ionizer. The results showed that recent scaled‐down semiconductor devices may be damaged when the length of the input line exceeds 50 mm during static elimination with the corona discharge ionizer. © 2024 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan and Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Task design and rater effects in task‐based language assessment
Authors: O'Grady Stefan
Published: December 2024

Task‐based language assessment represents a major component of task‐based language teaching syllabi. Current perspectives emphasise the importance of tasks in the assessment process, suggesting that adherence to influential models of language production during task design yields predictable test outcomes. The current study contends that the significance of the rater has been overlooked, resulting in adverse consequences when employing current task‐based frameworks. The article reviews literature on the rating process, with a focus on interactions between rater characteristics, rating scales, and rater effects. Drawing on the findings of the review, the author proposes a revised model of task‐based language assessment that curbs the impact of task design on test scores. The revised model underscores the need to regard raters as active agents in the assessment process to enhance validity and fairness and makes recommendations about minimizing rater effects.
Assessment of Vanadium Content in Soils Under Equatorial Climate
Authors: Trujillo‐González Juan Manuel , Torres‐Mora Marco Aurelio , Serrano‐Gómez Marlon , Castillo‐Monroy Edgar Fernando , Brevik Eric C. , Jiménez‐Ballesta Raimundo
Published: December 2024

It is challenging to accurately analyze and monitor the environmental quality of soils globally because data on precise baseline concentrations are lacking. Colombia is a country where baseline data is practically missing. This study focused on the highly weathered soils of the Piedmont Llanero (hyperhumid equatorial environment). The baseline vanadium (V) concentration was assessed and the possible influence of agricultural land use was examined. The results showed clear variability in V concentrations across land uses. The V content in soils in the natural environment was 5.8–76.7 mg kg−1 with a mean of 31.5 mg kg−1 and in agricultural soils was 20.7–88.6 mg kg−1 with a mean of 51.8 mg kg−1. The overall average was 41.7 mg kg−1 with a range of 5.8–88.6 mg kg−1, which are widely scattered values. The V concentration was compared to the world average values and was within normal ranges versus other areas. The calculated reference value (RV) for V was 38.4 mg kg−1. Based on the contamination factor, contamination was moderate (1.1) in the whole area. No contamination was detected when analyzed with I‐geo (−0.6). These findings clearly suggest that V was moderately contaminating in cultivated soils, but posed no ecological risks in the study area. No simple relation was found between V concentrations and investigated litho‐ and pedogenic factors. This work contains valuable information for not only legislative purposes but also for soil quality RVs in a hyperhumid equatorial climate.
Taking off and Navigating Disruptive and Climate Challenges for Building Resilience in Air Transport Infrastructure
Authors: Guzman Andres , Alwosheel Abdulrahman
Published: December 2024

The growing recognition of the importance of addressing disruptive events and climate change has led to an increased focus on resilience in recent decades. This is due to the escalating effects of changing weather patterns, rising temperatures, extreme events, and other challenges associated with climate change. Resilience has emerged as a pivotal concept in various fields, including air transport infrastructure. It has become evident that the ability of systems, communities, and infrastructure to anticipate, prepare for, respond to, and recover from the negative impacts of climate change is crucial. Resilience provides a crucial framework for developing adaptive strategies and ensuring sustainability in the face of ongoing climate challenges. In the ever-changing world of aviation, air transport infrastructure faces various climate-related challenges that require them to strengthen their infrastructure to maintain connectivity with their surrounding environment and ensure continuous operations.

This chapter explores the intricate interrelation between aviation and the obstacles posed by disruptive and climate change, delving deep into the concept that air transport infrastructure must actively manage resilience. From the challenges presented by rising sea levels to the impact of extreme weather events, this chapter will skillfully navigate through the various strategies airports employ to strengthen their systems against the effects of climate change. By thoroughly analyzing case studies, it will shed light on the innovative technological advancements and sustainable practices that are being utilized to mitigate the risks associated with climate change. Furthermore, it will thoroughly consider how these strategies can be tailored to suit the unique characteristics of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. This exploration aims to unveil a comprehensive blueprint that will enable airports to confidently take off into a future that is resilient to the challenges of climate change.
Dual overlaps and finite coupling ’t Hooft loops
Authors: Gombor Tamas , Bajnok Zoltán
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Integrable su(2|2)c symmetric models have integrable boundaries with osp(2|2) symmetries, which can be embedded into su(2|2)c in two different ways. We dualize the previously obtained asymptotic overlap formulas for one of the embeddings to describe the other embedding and apply the results to describe the asymptotic expectation values of local operators in the presence of a ’t Hooft line in $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 4 SYM. A peculiar feature of the setting is that in certain gradings only descendant states have non-vanishing overlaps with the boundary state and the overlap formula is not factorized for the Bethe roots.
Zugangsbarrieren zur Schwangerschaftsabbruchversorgung: Eine Analyse aus der Perspektive ungewollt Schwangerer – Erkenntnisse aus der Studie „Erfahrungen und Lebenslagen ungewollt Schwangerer. Angebote der Beratung und Versorgung (ELSA)“
Authors: Hahn Daphne , Torenz Rona , Thonke Ines , Eckardt Sarah , Schneider Maria , Wyrobisch-Krüger Anke , Busch Ulrike , Helfferich Cornelia , Knittel Tilmann , Böhm Maika , Brzank Petra , Knaevelsrud Christine , Krumm Silvia , Schumacher Sarah
Published: December 2024

Einleitung

Barrieren beim Zugang zur Schwangerschaftsabbruchversorgung können die Inanspruchnahme von Versorgungsleistungen verzögern, was zu einem zeitlich verzögerten Schwangerschaftsabbruch und gesundheitlichen Risiken führen kann. Zu Barrieren gehören u. a. die räumliche Erreichbarkeit, Geheimhaltung, Wartezeiten, Stigmatisierung, schlechte oder schlecht zugängliche Informationen und Kosten für einen Abbruch. Im Beitrag werden Barrieren beim Zugang zur Schwangerschaftsabbruchversorgung in Deutschland untersucht. Eingeschlossen werden Barrieren in der Verfügbarkeit und Erreichbarkeit von Versorgungsangeboten, im Zugang zu Informationen, den Kosten für einen Abbruch sowie organisatorische Hindernisse.

Methoden

Die Analysen basieren auf den Daten einer Online-Querschnittsbefragung von 594 Frauen mit Schwangerschaftsabbruch in Deutschland, die im Rahmen der ELSA-Studie 2021 und 2022 durchgeführt wurde.

Ergebnisse

Die Ergebnisse zeigen, dass auch in Deutschland der Zugang zu einem Schwangerschaftsabbruch für viele Frauen mit unterschiedlichen Hürden verbunden ist. 80,1 % der Befragten gaben mindestens eine Barriere beim Zugang zum Schwangerschaftsabbruch an, 65,5 % mehr als 2 und 3 und mehr Barrieren wurden von 40,5 % der Befragten angegeben. Besonders die Geheimhaltung des Eingriffs und damit einhergehende Stigmatisierungsängste stellten für viele Teilnehmerinnen Hürden dar.

Diskussion und Fazit

Die Studienergebnisse unterstreichen die Notwendigkeit, den Zugang zu sicheren Schwangerschaftsabbrüchen zu verbessern. Zum Abbau der Zugangsbarrieren gehören daher die Entkriminalisierung, eine flächendeckende Versorgungsstruktur, finanzielle Unterstützungsangebote, verbesserte Informationsangebote sowie der Abbau von Stigmatisierung und Diskriminierung.
Hooding cobras can get ahead of other snakes in the ability to evoke human fear
Authors: Frynta Daniel , Štolhoferová Iveta , Elmi Hassan Sh Abdirahman , Janovcová Markéta , Rudolfová Veronika , Rexová Kateřina , Sommer David , Král David , Berti Daniel Alex , Landová Eva , Frýdlová Petra
Published: December 2024

Fear of snakes is common not only in humans but also in other primates. Consequently, snakes are salient stimuli associated with prioritized attention, early detection and emotional significance. This has been interpreted as an adaptive evolutionary response of the primate brain to a risk of envenoming by a hidden snake. However, the struggle between mammals and snakes is not one-sided. Humans and carnivores regularly kill snakes, and thus snakes develop deterring defensive behaviour that may directly evoke enhanced fear. Here, we show that snakes depicted in threatening posture evoked on average more fear than those in resting posture. Significantly, African (Somali) and European (Czech) respondents considerably agreed on the relative fear elicited by various snakes. Nonetheless, not all defensive postures are equally efficient. Threatening cobras were perceived as top fear-evoking stimuli, even though most of them are not considered very frightening in resting posture. This effect can be attributed to their conspicuous hooding posture which evolved into an efficient warning signal for mammalian predators. Our result demonstrates that cobras are more effective than other snakes in the ability to evoke human fear by a simple behavioural display—hooding. This can be primarily explained by the behavioural evolution of cobras which successfully exploited pre-existing cognitive mechanisms of mammals. Whether human ancestors cohabiting with deadly venomous cobras further improved their fear response to hooding is uncertain, but likely.
Expanding on roles of pleckstrin homology-like domain family A member 1 protein
Authors: Durbas Małgorzata
Published: December 2024

Pleckstrin homology-like domain, family A, member 1 (PHLDA1), one of the three members of PHLDA (1–3) family, has been reported to be expressed in mammalian cells and tissues and play diverse roles in various biological processes such as apoptosis, pyroptosis, and differentiation. Nevertheless, new roles and mechanisms of PHLDA1 action have come to light, with some needing further clarification. The major aim of the publication is to review proapoptotic or antiapoptotic roles of PHLDA1 in cancer, including ample evidence on PHLDA1 role as a tumor suppressor gene or oncogene and its influence on tumor progression. The role of PHLDA1 as a prognostic marker of cancer emerges, as well as its role in drug response and resistance. PHLDA1 involvement in autophagy, endoplasmic reticulum stress, pyroptosis, or differentiation is also scrutinized. It is also important to note that the association of PHLDA1 with miRNA regulation is described. Additionally, the emerging functions of PHLDA1 are indicated, specifically in inflammation and ischemia/reperfusion injury.
Discovery and validation of Hsa-microRNA-3665 promoter methylation as a potential biomarker for the prognosis of esophageal squaous cell carcinoma
Authors: Zhou Jinsong , Liu Shuang , Zhang Juwei , Zeng Qiaoyan , Lin Zheng , Fu Rong , Lin Yulan , Hu Zhijian
Published: December 2024

Background

Methylation of microRNA (miRNA) promoters associated with diseases is a common epigenetic mechanism in the development of various human cancers. However, its relationship with prognosis in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) remains unclear. This study aims to explore the association between the methylation level of has-miR-3665 promoter and prognosis in ESCC.

Methods

Human miRNA data were downloaded from miRbase, and we identified CpG islands of these human miRNAs by genomics browser analysis. MiRNA methylation levels were detected by methylation-specific high-resolution melting. Gene ontology (GO), and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analyses were used to explore the molecular mechanism of hsa-miR-3665. Cox regression analysis was used to investigate prognostic factors. The overall survival rate was predicted by a nomogram.

Results

We found that 88 human miRNAs had promoter methylatio, of which 15 miRNAs were found to be epigenetically regulated in ESCC cells compared with their normal counterparts, including hsa-miR-3665. Meanwhile, hsa-miR-3665 expression was significantly lower in ESCC tumour tissue than in adjacent tissue (P = 0.03). GO and KEGG analyses demonstrated that the target genes are involved in protein transport, transcription regulator activity, MAPK and RAS signaling pathway. High hsa-miR-3665 promoter methylation levels were associated with a poor prognosis (HR = 3.89, 95% CI 1.11 ~ 13.55). Moreover, a nomogram incorporating the hsa-miR-3665 methylation level and clinical factors presented a good performance for predicting survival in the training and validation tests, with C-indices of 0.748 and 0.751, respectively.

Conclusions

High hsa-miR-3665 promoter methylation levels may be a potential biomarker for the progression of ESCC.
Effects of levodopa/carbidopa intestinal gel infusion on autonomic symptoms in advanced Parkinson’s disease: a systematic review
Authors: Galli Silvia , De Carolis Lanfranco , Bianchini Edoardo , Alborghetti Marika , Caliò Bianca , Pacilio Pierre , Fanciulli Alessandra , Pontieri Francesco E. , Rinaldi Domiziana
Published: December 2024

Purpose

Autonomic failure has a major impact on the quality of life of individuals with Parkinson’s disease (PD), especially in advanced stages of the disease. Levodopa/carbidopa intestinal gel (LCIG) infusion is a well-established treatment for advanced PD with severe motor fluctuations and provides substantial benefit in managing some non-motor symptoms (NMS), such as sleep, fatigue, and neuropsychiatric issues. The effect of LCIG on autonomic symptoms is by contrast not well known. Here we performed a systematic review on the influence of LCIG therapy on autonomic dysfunction in PD individuals.

Methods

Following the PRISMA guidelines, we systematically searched for studies that included autonomic outcome measures in LCIG-treated PD individuals, limiting the search to articles written in English and published between January 2005 and June 2023. We evaluated improvement, stability, or worsening of gastrointestinal, urinary, and cardiovascular symptoms at six different timepoints according to clinimetric scale changes compared to baseline. Data on autonomic adverse events (AEs) possibly related to LCIG treatment were also collected.

Results

Of the 1476 studies identified in the initial search, 16 ultimately met the inclusion criteria and underwent quality assessment and data extraction, with data from 1361 PD patients (18.3 months mean follow-up). Thirteen studies reported improvement or stability of gastrointestinal, urinary, and cardiovascular symptoms over the interventional period. One study found a worsening of cardiovascular symptoms and two of urological symptoms. Regarding safety, seven studies reported gastrointestinal (8.4%), urinary (0.5%), and cardiovascular (1.1%) autonomic LCIG-related AEs.

Conclusions

LCIG infusion may help to reduce the burden of autonomic symptoms in advanced PD. Prospective studies specifically addressing the effect of LCIG on autonomic function in advanced PD are warranted.
Pharmakotherapie und begleitende Labordiagnostik im Erwachsenenalter
Authors: Steinhoff Bernhard J.
Published: December 2024

Anfallssupprimierende Medikamente (ASM) werden bei erwachsenen Patientinnen und Patienten in der Regel über lange Zeit eingesetzt. Je nach pharmakokinetischem Profil sind dabei als Begleiterscheinung mannigfaltige Auswirkungen auf den Organismus und die Wirksamkeit und Verträglichkeit anderer Medikamente denkbar, die auch zu typischen Laborveränderungen führen können. Darauf bezogen ist es essenziell, vor Beginn mit einem ASM der Wahl durch geeignete Labordiagnostik Risikofaktoren zu identifizieren, die unter Therapie womöglich zu gesundheitsgefährdenden Änderungen führen können und unter Umständen auch die ASM-Auswahl vor Therapiebeginn beeinflussen. Die hier vorgelegte Übersicht soll dabei helfen, solche Konstellationen kennenzulernen und Ratschläge zu erteilen, welche Parameter wann bestimmt werden sollten. Eine zweite wichtige Säule der epileptologischen Labordiagnostik betrifft die Serumkonzentrationen von ASM. Deren generelle Wertigkeit einschließlich des sog. therapeutischen Bereichs wurde früher überschätzt. Heute wissen wir, dass Serumkonzentrationen von ASM nur bei geeigneten klinischen Fragestellungen und nicht routinemäßig bestimmt werden sollten. Wir bevorzugen heute die Definition eines individuellen und nicht pauschalen Referenzbereichs und schlagen sogar, gestützt auf die jüngsten Daten zu neu eingeführten ASM, vor, diesen Referenzbereich eher als typisch oder erwartbar zu bezeichnen, ohne dass unmittelbare klinische Schritte ohne klinisches Korrelat vorgenommen werden sollten.
An experimental assessment of biomass loss due to red deer (Cervus elaphus L.) grazing on agricultural grass meadows in Norway
Authors: Unsgård Even , Meisingset Erling L. , Rivrud Inger Maren , Fossland Gunn Randi , Thorvaldsen Pål , Veiberg Vebjørn , Mysterud Atle
Published: December 2024

In Europe, over a third of the agricultural area is grass meadows used for livestock grazing and fodder production. Grass meadows provide a food source for wild ungulates causing human-wildlife conflicts due to forage removal. Few experimental studies have quantified biomass loss with enough replicates to determine how surrounding environments influences level of biomass removal. Using an exclosure experiment on 57 grassland meadows over five years at the northwest coast of Norway covering 10 650 km2, we quantified biomass removal by red deer (Cervus elaphus L.) and how environmental factors impacted biomass loss (Study 1). Furthermore, we examined development of biomass loss and crude protein concentration in five fields throughout the growing season (Study 2). The average predicted biomass loss to red deer grazing was 16% for the first harvest, and 7.3% for the second harvest (Study 1). Biomass loss increased with red deer density from 0% at the lowest density (0.6 red deer harvested/km2) to 31% at the highest density (4 red deer harvested/km2). Biomass loss increased from 12% to 32.8% as terrain ruggedness index (TRI) rose from 2.1 to 7.1. Absolute biomass loss increased towards time of grass harvest (Study 2). Crude protein concentration was higher in unfenced plots during the period before first harvest, but not between first and second harvest (Study 2). The quantification of biomass removal at a large spatial scale over several years in this study provides a better understanding of factors causing variation in losses.
Isomorphism Problems and Groups of Automorphisms for Ore Extensions $$K[x][y; f\frac{d}{dx} ]$$ (Prime Characteristic)
Authors: Bavula V. V.
Published: December 2024

Let

$$\Lambda (f) = K[x][y; f\frac{d}{dx} ]$$

Λ

(
f
)

=
K

[
x
]

[
y
;
f

d

dx

]

be an Ore extension of a polynomial algebra K[x] over an arbitrary field K of characteristic

$$p>0$$

p
>
0

where

$$f\in K[x]$$

f
∈
K
[
x
]

. For each polynomial f, the automorphism group of the algebras

$$\Lambda (f)$$

Λ
(
f
)

is explicitly described. The automorphism group

$$\textrm{Aut}_K(\Lambda (f))=\mathbb {S}\rtimes G_f$$

Aut
K

(
Λ

(
f
)

)

=
S
⋊

G
f

is a semidirect product of two explicit groups where

$$G_f$$

G
f

is the eigengroup of the polynomial f (the set of all automorphisms of K[x] such that f is their common eigenvector). For each polynomial f, the eigengroup

$$G_f$$

G
f

is explicitly described. It is proven that every subgroup of

$$\textrm{Aut}_K(K[x])$$

Aut
K

(
K

[
x
]

)

is the eigengroup of a polynomial. It is proven that the Krull and global dimensions of the algebra

$$\Lambda (f)$$

Λ
(
f
)

are 2. The prime, completely prime, primitive and maximal ideals of the algebra

$$\Lambda (f)$$

Λ
(
f
)

are classified.
Psychosocial Outcomes of Supported Living for People with Severe Mental Illness: A One Year Evaluation of Floating Outreach in Germany
Authors: Dehn Lorenz B. , Schreiter Julia , Steinhart Ingmar , Driessen Martin
Published: December 2024

Supported living plays an important role in the community-based care for people with mental illness. However, support services like floating outreach have hardly been the subject of longer-term research to date, especially with regard to Germany. Thus, the main aim of this prospective observational study was to evaluate the psychosocial outcomes of floating outreach support for non-homeless people with severe mental illness across a one-year period. In a group of n = 119 people (M = 41 years old, 36% with affective disorders) the quantitative analyses revealed significant improvements in quality of life (MANSA), overall social functioning (SFS), as well as general support and care needs (CAN-EU). Nevertheless, there were still some unmet (and even increasing) care needs among the respondents after one year, especially in the domains of “physical health” and “company of others“. These findings therefore indicate areas of support that should be given more attention in the future.
Intestinal mucosal turnover in germ-free piglets infected with E. coli
Authors: Tóth Štefan , Fagová Zuzana , Holodová Monika , Čurgali Kristína , Mechírová Eva , Kunová Alexandra , Maretta Milan , Nemcová Radomíra , Gancarčíková Soňa , Danková Marianna
Published: December 2024

We focused on investigation of E. coli infection influence on the turnover and apoptosis of intestinal mucosa. We have verified changes in proliferation and apoptosis in epithelial lining as well as in lamina propria of jejunum and colon of germ-free (GF) piglets as healthy control group and GF piglets in which at 5th day their gut was colonized with E. coli bacteria (ECK group). According to our results we detected significant increase in proliferation of the epithelial cells only in the jejunum of the ECK group, indicating a higher sensitivity to colonization with E. coli. Significant changes in the TUNEL assay and immunohistochemistry of other studied markers (TNF-α, Caspase-3 and HSP-70) were noted only in the lamina propria mucosae of both intestinal segments in the ECK group. In conclusion, we found that the commensal gut microbiota plays a role in regulation of the turnover rate in the epithelial lining, but also in the cells in the lamina propria mucosae in both intestinal segments, and that the host response is dependent on the colonising bacteria.
Impacts of phosphorus limitation in the toxicity of environmental concentrations of lead and zinc in Raphidocelis subcapitata (Chlorophyceae)
Authors: Rocha Giseli Swerts , Melão Maria G. G.
Published: December 2024

Microalgal metabolism is affected by the surrounding environment and nutrients such as phosphorus (P) and nitrogen (N) are essential for optimal metabolism, as well as trace amounts of essential metals such as zinc (Zn); although in higher doses than required, Zn can be toxic. Lead (Pb) is a non-essential metal that can harm organisms from different trophic levels. In the environment, algae are exposed to several stressors simultaneously and adapt their metabolism. In the present study, we evaluated P limitation combined with environmental concentrations of Zn or Pb to the freshwater microalga Raphidocelis subcapitata regarding growth, pigments production, and photosynthetic parameters. Our results indicate that P limitation affected the growth, pigments production, relative maximum electron transport rate (rETRmax), and saturation irradiance; while Pb altered growth, pigments production, and maximum quantum yield; and Zn affected pigment production, photochemical and non-photochemical quenching, and rETRmax. However, the combination of metal and P limitation resulted in synergistic responses, i.e., higher damages than the isolated stressors, in growth, maximum and effective quantum yield, and in the rapid light curve parameters. On the other hand, antagonism, i.e., lower damages than isolated stressors, was observed in pigments production and non-photochemical quenching, suggesting that algae activated defense mechanisms to cope with both stressors simultaneously. In addition, our results indicate an algal metabolism adjustment to P limitation and highlight the importance of considering physicochemical water characteristics when defining regulations of acceptable levels of metals in aquatic ecosystems.
The Need for a Whole of Family Response: The Invisibility of Siblings in Adolescent-to-Parent Violence Interventions
Authors: Young Amy , Venables Jemma , O’Leary Patrick , Fannon David , Walter Bronte
Published: December 2024

Purpose

Adolescent-to-parent violence (APV), especially son-to-mother violence, often occurs in the context of adult-perpetrated domestic and family violence (DFV). APV interventions largely focus on the behaviour of the young person using violence, and their relationship with the protective parent, often the mother. Focus on the mother-young person dyad is important yet ignores their relationships with siblings, who have also experienced DFV and APV. If dynamics within the home are unaccounted for, strategies developed within the contained environment of an intervention program are unlikely to be sustained. This paper examines the experiences of siblings whose mothers and brothers are attending an APV intervention. In order to inform more responsive policies and practices, it addresses two research questions: 1) What are the needs of siblings whose brothers are engaging in APV? and (2) how can APV interventions better recognise and respond to the needs of siblings?

Methods

This paper reports on a subset of qualitative data from the evaluation of an Australian APV intervention, conducted between 2020 and 2022. Interviews were undertaken with mothers (n = 17), sons using APV (n = 9), practitioners (n = 11) and a sibling (n = 1). Case files (n = 16) containing data related to the levels of violence witnessed by siblings were also reviewed.

Results

Thematic analysis produced five themes: (1) intersecting complexity; (2) recognition of violence experienced by siblings; (3) different sibling cohorts; (4) family disruption; and (5) siblings and the program.

Conclusion

We argue that a whole of family response is needed for families recovering from DFV where APV is present.
Exploring Acoustic Detection of α-Synuclein Fibrils
Authors: Brun-Cosme-Bruny M. , Gerfault L. , Mourier V. , Torres N. , Bleuet P.
Published: December 2024

Over the past decades, the incidence of Parkinson’s disease (PD) cases has doubled in industrialized countries. While patients over 70 years old still represent more than half of the cases, the disease is increasingly affecting younger individuals. Environmental factors have been implicated, such as the effects of certain pesticides or chemicals on neurons, such as rotenone or 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP). Researchers have also demonstrated the influence of genetic mutations in younger patients. A-synuclein is a protein encoded by the SNCA gene, known to undergo various mutations in hereditary cases of PD. These mutations alter the composition and spatial arrangements of α-synuclein. The proteins, originally of linear shape, aggregate during the progression of PD, forming fibrillary structures that propagate through brain tissues. Among the physical therapies investigated for treating α-synuclein aggregation, ultrasonic waves, capable of altering protein and cell behaviors, have recently been used to disrupt α-synuclein fibrils within tissues in cellular and animal models, with the hope of developing treatments based on ultrasound properties. However, detecting fibrils typically requires invasive and non-biocompatible chemical compounds or cumbersome machinery. In this study, our acoustic experimental setup allowed us to investigate the response of α-synuclein to ultrasound perturbations. By capturing the transmitted wave across proteins over a frequency range 10 kHz to 10 MHz, no ultrasound signature indicating the presence of proteins was observed.

Significance Statement: The results report there is no ultrasound signature of the presence of α-synuclein fibrils, from 10 kHz to 10 MHz.