bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Two‐year effect of semaglutide 2.4 mg on control of eating in adults with overweight/obesity: STEP 5
Authors: Wharton Sean , Batterham Rachel L. , Bhatta Meena , Buscemi Silvio , Christensen Louise N. , Frias Juan P. , Jódar Esteban , Kandler Kristian , Rigas Georgia , Wadden Thomas A. , Garvey W. Timothy
Published: January 2023

Objective

This study evaluated the effect of once‐weekly semaglutide 2.4 mg on 2‐year control of eating.

Methods

In STEP 5, adults with overweight/obesity were randomized 1:1 to semaglutide 2.4 mg or placebo, plus lifestyle modification, for 104 weeks. A 19‐item Control of Eating Questionnaire was administered at weeks 0, 20, 52, and 104 in a subgroup of participants. P values were not controlled for multiplicity.

Results

In participants completing the Control of Eating Questionnaire (semaglutide, n = 88; placebo, n = 86), mean body weight changes were −14.8% (semaglutide) and −2.4% (placebo). Scores significantly improved with semaglutide versus placebo for Craving Control and Craving for Savory domains at weeks 20, 52, and 104 (p < 0.01); for Positive Mood and Craving for Sweet domains at weeks 20 and 52 (p < 0.05); and for hunger and fullness at week 20 (p < 0.001). Improvements in craving domain scores were positively correlated with reductions in body weight from baseline to week 104 with semaglutide. At 104 weeks, scores for desire to eat salty and spicy food, cravings for dairy and starchy foods, difficulty in resisting cravings, and control of eating were significantly reduced with semaglutide versus placebo (all p < 0.05).

Conclusions

In adults with overweight/obesity, semaglutide 2.4 mg improved short‐ and longer‐term control of eating associated with substantial weight loss.

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Wildlife documentaries present a diverse, but biased, portrayal of the natural world
Authors: Howlett Kate , Lee Ho‐Yee , Jaffé Amelia , Lewis Matthew , Turner Edgar C.
Published: January 2023

Wildlife‐documentary production has expanded over recent decades, while studies report reduced direct contact with nature. The role of documentaries and other electronic content in educating people about biodiversity is therefore likely to be growing increasingly important. This study investigated whether the content of wildlife documentaries is an accurate reflection of the natural world and whether conservation messaging in documentaries has changed over time.

We sampled an online film database (n = 105) to quantify the representation of taxa and habitats over time, and compared this with actual taxonomic diversity in the natural world. We assessed whether the precision with which an organism could be identified from the way it was mentioned varied between taxa or across time, and whether mentions of conservation and anthropogenic impacts on the natural world changed over time.

Mentions of organisms (n = 374) were very biased towards vertebrates (81.1% of mentions) relative to invertebrates (17.9% of mentions), despite vertebrates representing only 3.4% of described species, compared to 74.9% for invertebrates. Mentions were highly variable across groups and between time periods, particularly for insects, fish and reptiles. Plants had a consistently low representation across time periods.

A range of habitats was represented, the most common being tropical forest and the least common being deep ocean, but there was no change over time.

Mentions identifiable to species were significantly different between taxa, with 41.8% of mentions of vertebrates identifiable to species compared with just 7.5% of invertebrate mentions and 10% of plant mentions. This did not change over time.

Conservation was mentioned in 16.2% of documentaries overall, but in almost 50% of documentaries in the current decade. Anthropogenic impacts were mentioned in 22.1% of documentaries and never before the 1970s.

Our results show that documentaries provide a diverse picture of nature with an increasing focus on conservation, with likely benefits for public awareness. However, they overrepresent vertebrate species, potentially directing public attention towards these taxa. We suggest widening the range of taxa featured to redress this and call for a greater focus on threats to biodiversity to improve public awareness.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Automated Ki‐67 labeling index assessment in prostate cancer using artificial intelligence and multiplex fluorescence immunohistochemistry
Authors: Blessin Niclas C , Yang Cheng , Mandelkow Tim , Raedler Jonas B , Li Wenchao , Bady Elena , Simon Ronald , Vettorazzi Eik , Lennartz Maximilian , Bernreuther Christian , Fraune Christoph , Jacobsen Frank , Krech Till , Marx Andreas , Lebok Patrick , Minner Sarah , Burandt Eike , Clauditz Till S , Wilczak Waldemar , Sauter Guido , Heinzer Hans , Haese Alexander , Schlomm Thorsten , Graefen Markus , Steurer Stefan
Published: January 2023

The Ki‐67 labeling index (Ki‐67 LI) is a strong prognostic marker in prostate cancer, although its analysis requires cumbersome manual quantification of Ki‐67 immunostaining in 200–500 tumor cells. To enable automated Ki‐67 LI assessment in routine clinical practice, a framework for automated Ki‐67 LI quantification, which comprises three different artificial intelligence analysis steps and an algorithm for cell‐distance analysis of multiplex fluorescence immunohistochemistry (mfIHC) staining, was developed and validated in a cohort of 12,475 prostate cancers. The prognostic impact of the Ki‐67 LI was tested on a tissue microarray (TMA) containing one 0.6 mm sample per patient. A ‘heterogeneity TMA’ containing three to six samples from different tumor areas in each patient was used to model Ki‐67 analysis of multiple different biopsies, and 30 prostate biopsies were analyzed to compare a ‘classical’ bright field‐based Ki‐67 analysis with the mfIHC‐based framework. The Ki‐67 LI provided strong and independent prognostic information in 11,845 analyzed prostate cancers (p < 0.001 each), and excellent agreement was found between the framework for automated Ki‐67 LI assessment and the manual quantification in prostate biopsies from routine clinical practice (intraclass correlation coefficient: 0.94 [95% confidence interval: 0.87–0.97]). The analysis of the heterogeneity TMA revealed that the Ki‐67 LI of the sample with the highest Gleason score (area under the curve [AUC]: 0.68) was as prognostic as the mean Ki‐67 LI of all six foci (AUC: 0.71 [p = 0.24]). The combined analysis of the Ki‐67 LI and Gleason score obtained on identical tissue spots showed that the Ki‐67 LI added significant additional prognostic information in case of classical International Society of Urological Pathology grades (AUC: 0.82 [p = 0.002]) and quantitative Gleason score (AUC: 0.83 [p = 0.018]). The Ki‐67 LI is a powerful prognostic parameter in prostate cancer that is now applicable in routine clinical practice. In the case of multiple cancer‐positive biopsies, the sole automated analysis of the worst biopsy was sufficient. © 2023 The Authors. The Journal of Pathology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
Mental time travel for self and others in individuals with a high level of schizotypy
Authors: Ye Jun‐yan , Qin Xiao‐jing , Cui Ji‐fang , Jia Lu‐xia , Shi Hai‐song , Yang Tian‐xiao , Lui Simon S. Y. , Wang Ya , Chan Raymond C. K.
Published: January 2023

Mental time travel (MTT) is the ability to project oneself to the past or future through mental simulation. Moreover, MTT can involve self‐related or other‐related information. This study aimed to compare MTT in individuals with high levels of schizotypy and that in their counterparts with low levels of schizotypy. Participants with high (n = 37) and low (n = 37) levels of schizotypy completed an MTT task with four conditions [2 (Condition: self vs. other) × 2 (Time orientation: past vs. future)]. They were required to recall past events that had happened to themselves or to a non‐intimate person, and to imagine possible future events that might happen to themselves or to a non‐intimate person, related to cue words. Outcome measures included specificity, vividness, sense of experience, emotional valence, emotional intensity, proportion of first‐person visual perspective in events, and difficulty in event generation. A 2 (Group: high vs. low levels of schizotypy) × 2 (Condition) × 2 (Time orientation) mixed analysis of variance was conducted on each index. Results showed that self‐related MTT was more specific than other‐related MTT in low levels of schizotypy participants but not in high levels of schizotypy participants. Participants with a high level of schizotypy reported fewer specific events, and reported events with lower vividness and positive emotion than did those with a low level of schizotypy. Self‐related MTT showed higher levels of phenomenological characteristics than did other‐related MTT. In conclusion, individuals with a high level of schizotypy have altered MTT, and cannot benefit from the self‐advantage effect on the specificity of MTT.
Mutation of the clock gene timeless disturbs diapause induction and adult emergence rhythm in Helicoverpa armigera
Authors: Liu Xiaoming , Cai Limei , Zhu Lin , Tian Zhiqiang , Shen Zhongjian , Cheng Jie , Zhang Songdou , Li Zhen , Liu Xiaoxia
Published: January 2023

Background

Circadian rhythms are physical and behavioral changes that follow the 24‐h cycle of Earth's light and temperature and are regulated by clock genes. Timeless (Tim) has been identified as a canonical clock gene in some insects, however, its functions have been little studied in lepidopteran pests.

Results

To investigate Tim (HaTim) gene function in Helicoverpa armigera, an important lepidopteran pest, we obtained the HaTim mutant using the CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing system. Our results showed that the transcript levels of HaTim rhythmically peaked at night in heads of the wild larvae and adult, and the diel expression of HaTim was sensitive to photoperiod and temperature. The expression rhythms of other clock genes, such as HaPer, HaCry1, HaCry2 and HaCwo, were disturbed in the HaTim mutant larvae, as that stage is a sensitivity period for diapause induction. Fifth‐instar wild‐type larvae could be induced to pupate in diapause under a short‐day photoperiod and low temperature, however, fifth‐instar HaTim mutant larvae could not be induced under the same conditions. In addition, the emergence of wild‐type adults peaked early at night, but the rhythm was disturbed in the HaTim mutant with arrhythmic expression of some clock genes, such as HaPer, HaCry1 and HaCwo in adults.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that the clock gene Tim is involved in diapause induction and adult emergence in H. armigera, and is a potential target gene for controlling pest. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Transcriptome analysis indicates the involvement of herbicide‐responsive and plant–pathogen interaction pathways in the development of resistance to ACCase inhibitors in Apera spica‐venti
Authors: Wrzesińska‐Krupa Barbara , Szmatoła Tomasz , Praczyk Tadeusz , Obrępalska‐Stęplowska Aleksandra
Published: January 2023

Background

The continuous use of the herbicides contributes to the emergence of the resistant populations of numerous weed species that are tolerant to multiple herbicides with different modes of action (multiple resistance) which is provided by non‐target‐site resistance mechanisms. In this study, we addressed the question of rapid acquisition of herbicide resistance to pinoxaden (acetyl CoA carboxylase inhibitor) in Apera spica‐venti, which endangers winter cereal crops and has high adaptation capabilities to inhabit many rural locations. To this end, de novo transcriptome of Apera spica‐venti was assembled and RNA‐sequencing analysis of plants resistant and susceptible to pinoxaden treated with this herbicide was performed.

Results

The obtained data showed that the prime candidate genes responsible for herbicide resistance were those encoding 3‐ketoacyl‐CoA synthase 12‐like, UDP‐glycosyltransferases (UGT) including UGT75K6, UGT75E2, UGT83A1‐like, and glutathione S‐transferases (GSTs) such as GSTU1 and GSTU6. Also, such highly accelerated herbicide resistance emergence may result from the enhanced constitutive expression of a wide range of genes involved in detoxification already before herbicide treatment and may also influence response to biotic stresses, which was assumed by the detection of expression changes in genes encoding defence‐related proteins, including receptor kinase‐like Xa21. Moreover, alterations in the expression of genes associated with methylation in non‐treated herbicide‐resistant populations were identified.

Conclusion

The obtained results indicated genes that may be involved in herbicide resistance. Moreover, they provide valuable insight into the possible effect of resistance on the weed interaction with the other stresses by indicating pathways associated with both abiotic and biotic stresses. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Investigation of Dysprosium‐Incorporated Potassium Boro‐Tellurite Glasses Toward Radiation Screening and Photonic Applications
Authors: Sharma Surbhi , Verma Neetu , Kaur Sandeep
Published: January 2023

A series of quaternary tellurite‐based glasses (72−x)TeO2 + 25B2O3 + 3K2CO3 + xDy2O3, where (x = 0, 0.5, 1, 1.5, 2, 2.5), are prepared using melt quenching technique. The effect of dopants on structural, physical, optical, and thermal properties of alkali boro‐tellurite glasses are studied using the differential thermal analysis (DTA) technique, UV–vis spectrometer, and photoluminescence technique. The density of as‐prepared samples has been obtained using the conventional Archimedes principle and other physical parameters, viz. molar volume and ion concentration, are also calculated using density. The optical absorption spectra exhibits different excited states of Dy3+ corresponding to 6H15/2→ 6F5/2(∼805 nm), 6F3/2(∼755 nm), 4F9/2 (∼473 nm), 4I15/2 (∼454 nm), 4G11/2 (∼427 nm), 4F7/2(389 nm), 4P3/2(∼366 nm). With the increase in Dy+3 concentration, an increase in optical bandgap, density, and molar volume as well as decrease in molar reflectivity, and reflection loss is evident from this study. The effect of Dy+3 ion concentration on Y/B intensity ratios and CIE chromaticity coordinates have been evaluated to understand the possible applications of aforementioned glass samples for white‐light‐emitting diodes (WLEDs). Moreover, various shielding parameters, viz. half value layer (HVL), mean free path (MFP), effective atomic number (Z
eff), mass attenuation coefficient (MAC) have also been determined to understand the shielding characteristics of as‐prepared glass samples.
Surface modifications of biodegradable AZ31 alloy after immersion in physiological solution
Authors: Ambrogi V. , Bolli E. , Ceccarelli M. , Kaciulis S. , Mezzi A. , Montanari R. , Pakhomova E. , Richetta M. , Varone A.
Published: January 2023

Internal prosthesis and grafts are currently made of Ti alloys, stainless steels and Co–Cr alloys. In spite of excellent biocompatibility, they show some drawbacks that concern their mechanical properties (e.g. elastic modulus) and the need of secondary surgery for removing the implant. For this reason, a growing attention has been focused on biodegradable materials that can be absorbed into the body after tissue remodelling. In particular, Mg alloys are promising candidates for temporary implants thanks to their high biocompatibility, biodegradability and good mechanical properties that match those of human bone. In this work, the surface modifications of biodegradable AZ31 alloy were analysed after immersion for 15 days in a physiological solution (NaCl 0.09%) by using X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) techniques. XPS analysis of the surface of as‐supplied AZ31 alloy showed the presence of MgO, whereas after immersion in the physiological solution, only Mg (OH)2 was detected. The result has been discussed with reference to literature data. From the photoemission spectra and quantitative analysis, a small amount of Ca (about 2 wt%) was also detected.
Sol‐Gel‐Derived Ordered Mesoporous High Entropy Spinel Ferrites and Assessment of Their Photoelectrochemical and Electrocatalytic Water Splitting Performance
Authors: Einert Marcus , Waheed Arslan , Lauterbach Stefan , Mellin Maximilian , Rohnke Marcus , Wagner Lysander Q. , Gallenberger Julia , Tian Chuanmu , Smarsly Bernd M. , Jaegermann Wolfram , Hess Franziska , Schlaad Helmut , Hofmann Jan P.
Published: January 2023

The novel material class of high entropy oxides with their unique and unexpected physicochemical properties is a candidate for energy applications. Herein, it is reported for the first time about the physico‐ and (photo‐) electrochemical properties of ordered mesoporous (CoNiCuZnMg)Fe2O4 thin films synthesized by a soft‐templating and dip‐coating approach. The A‐site high entropy ferrites (HEF) are composed of periodically ordered mesopores building a highly accessible inorganic nanoarchitecture with large specific surface areas. The mesoporous spinel HEF thin films are found to be phase‐pure and crack‐free on the meso‐ and macroscale. The formation of the spinel structure hosting six distinct cations is verified by X‐ray‐based characterization techniques. Photoelectron spectroscopy gives insight into the chemical state of the implemented transition metals supporting the structural characterization data. Applied as photoanode for photoelectrochemical water splitting, the HEFs are photostable over several hours but show only low photoconductivity owing to fast surface recombination, as evidenced by intensity‐modulated photocurrent spectroscopy. When applied as oxygen evolution reaction electrocatalyst, the HEF thin films possess overpotentials of 420 mV at 10 mA cm−2 in 1 m KOH. The results imply that the increase of the compositional disorder enhances the electronic transport properties, which are beneficial for both energy applications.
Ag Alloying in Cu2−yAgyBa(Ge,Sn)Se4Films and Photovoltaic Devices
Authors: Kim Yongshin , Hempel Hannes , Unold Thomas , Mitzi David B.
Published: January 2023

Trigonal Cu2BaGe1−xSnxSe4(CBGTSe) has recently gained interest as a potential photovoltaic absorber to target mitigation of antisite defect formation in Cu2ZnSn(S,Se)4. This study examines partial substitution of Cu by Ag as a potential approach to tune the properties of Ag‐incorporated CBGTSe in the following aspects: 1) phase stability and crystal structure as a function of Ag content; 2) film morphology and grain structure; 3) charge carrier properties; 4) band positions; and 5) charge carrier kinetics and recombination. Up to 20% of Cu can be substituted by Ag in CBGTSe, while above 20% a phase mixture appears. Increasing Ag content induces larger average grain size and reduced hole carrier densities. In contrast, photoelectron spectroscopy and photoluminescence measurements reveal negligible impact of Ag substitution on ionization potential (≈5.4 eV) and electron affinity (≈3.7 eV). Also, Ag content offers negligible impact on carrier lifetimes (few ns). Consistent with these fundamental properties, solar cells based on two different Ag/(Ag + Cu) ratios (≈0% and ≈20%) show comparable power conversion efficiencies (≈2.7–2.8%). These results indicate that CBGTSe films and solar cells may be less sensitive to Ag substitution compared to Cu2ZnSn(S,Se)4, at least at the current level of absorber and device optimization.
Equity analysis of an augmented reality‐mediated group activity in a college biochemistry classroom
Authors: Wang Song , Sung Rou‐Jia , Reinholz Daniel L. , Bussey Thomas J.
Published: January 2023

The use of two‐dimensional images to teach students about three‐dimensional molecules continues to be a prevalent issue in many classrooms. As affordable visualization technologies continue to advance, there has been an increasing interest to utilize novel technology, such as augmented reality (AR), in the development of molecular visualization tools. Existing evaluations of these visual–spatial learning tools focus primarily on student performance and attitude, with little attention toward potential inequity in student participation. Our study adds to the current literature on introducing molecular visualization technology in biochemistry classrooms by examining the potential inequity in a group activity mediated by AR technology. Adapting the participatory equity framework to our specific context, we view equity and inequity in terms of access to the technological conversational floor, a social space created when people enter technology‐mediated joint endeavors. We explore three questions: What are the different ways students interact with an AR model of the potassium channel? What are salient patterns of participation that may signify inequity in classroom technology use? What is the interplay between group social dynamics and the introduction of AR technology in the context of a technology‐mediated group activity? Pairing qualitative analysis with quantitative metrics, our mixed‐methods approach produced a complex story of student participation in an AR‐mediated group activity. The patterns of student participation showed that equity and inequity in an AR‐mediated biochemistry group learning activity are fluid and multifaceted. It was observed that students who gave more explanations during group discussion also had more interactions with the AR model (i.e., they had greater access to the technological conversational floor), and their opinion of the AR model may have greater influence on how their group engage with the AR model. This study provides more nuanced ways of conceptualizing equity and inequity in biochemistry learning settings.
Celestial chiral algebras, colour-kinematics duality and integrability
Authors: Monteiro Ricardo
Published: January 2023

Abstract

We study celestial chiral algebras appearing in celestial holography, using the light-cone gauge formulation of self-dual Yang-Mills theory and self-dual gravity, and explore also a deformation of the latter. The recently discussed w1+∞ algebra in self-dual gravity arises from the soft expansion of an area-preserving diffeomorphism algebra, which plays the role of the kinematic algebra in the colour-kinematics duality and the double copy relation between the self-dual theories. The W1+∞ deformation of w1+∞ arises from a Moyal deformation of self-dual gravity. This theory is interpreted as a constrained chiral higher-spin gravity, where the field is a tower of higher-spin components fully constrained by the graviton component. In all these theories, the chiral structure of the operator-product expansion exhibits the colour-kinematics duality: the implicit ‘left algebra’ is the self-dual kinematic algebra, while the ‘right algebra’ provides the structure constants of the operator-product expansion, ensuring its associativity at tree level. In a scattering amplitudes version of the Ward conjecture, the left algebra ensures the classical integrability of this type of theories. In particular, it enforces the vanishing of the tree-level amplitudes via the double copy.
Pure supersymmetric AdS and the Swampland
Authors: Montero Miguel , Roček Martin , Vafa Cumrun
Published: January 2023

Abstract

We point out that pure supergravity theories in AdS with enough supersymmetry lead, upon taking the large radius limit, to flat space quantum gravities with a nonperturbatively exact global symmetry, and are therefore in the Swampland. The argument applies to any AdS supergravity with gauged R-symmetry group, including truncations of most well known examples, such as AdS5 without the S5 or AdS4 without the S7. This demonstrates that extreme scale separation, at least with enough supersymmetry, is not realizable. Moreover pure AdS theories are also in conflict with some other Swampland principles including the Weak Gravity Conjecture and the (generalized) Distance Conjecture.
Single inclusive hadron production in DIS at small x: next to leading order corrections
Authors: Bergabo Filip , Jalilian-Marian Jamal
Published: January 2023

Abstract

We calculate the one-loop corrections to single inclusive hadron production in Deep Inelastic Scattering (DIS) at small x in the forward rapidity region using the Color Glass Condensate formalism. We show that the divergent parts of the next to leading order (NLO) corrections either cancel among each other or lead to x (rapidity) evolution of the leading order (LO) dipole cross section according to the JIMWLK evolution equation and DGLAP evolution of the parton-hadron fragmentation function. The remaining finite parts constitute the NLO (αs) corrections to the LO single inclusive hadron production cross section in DIS at small x.
Probing new physics in the vector-like lepton model by lepton electric dipole moments
Authors: Hamaguchi Koichi , Nagata Natsumi , Osaki Genta , Tseng Shih-Yen
Published: January 2023

Abstract

We examine the lepton dipole moments in an extension of the Standard Model (SM), which contains vector-like leptons that couple only to the second-generation SM leptons. The model naturally leads to sizable contributions to the muon g − 2 and the muon electric dipole moment (EDM). One feature of this model is that a sizable electron EDM is also induced at the two-loop level due to the existence of new vector-like leptons in the loops. We find parameter regions that can explain the muon g − 2 anomaly and are also consistent with the experimental constraints coming from the electron EDM and the Higgs decay h → μ+μ−. The generated EDMs can be as large as $$ \mathcal{O} $$
O
(10−22)e∙cm for the muon and $$ \mathcal{O} $$
O
(10−30)e∙cm for the electron, respectively, which can be probed in future experiments for the EDM measurements.
Global, Non-Scattering Solutions to the Energy Critical Wave Maps Equation
Authors: Pillai Mohandas
Published: January 2023

We consider the 1-equivariant energy critical wave maps problem with two-sphere target. Using a method based on matched asymptotic expansions, we construct infinite time relaxation, blow-up, and intermediate types of solutions that have topological degree one. More precisely, for a symbol class of admissible, time-dependent length scales, we construct solutions which can be decomposed as a ground state harmonic map (soliton) re-scaled by an admissible length scale, plus radiation, and small corrections which vanish (in a suitable sense) as time approaches infinity. Our class of admissible length scales includes positive and negative powers of t, with exponents sufficiently small in absolute value. In addition, we obtain solutions with soliton length scale undergoing damped or undamped oscillations in a bounded set, or undergoing unbounded oscillations, for all sufficiently large t.
Exploring the potential of combining IL-2-activated NK cells with an anti-PDL1 monoclonal antibody to target multiple myeloma-associated macrophages
Authors: Ehlers Femke A. I. , Mahaweni Niken M. , van de Waterweg Berends Annet , Saya Thara , Bos Gerard M. J. , Wieten Lotte
Published: January 2023

Multiple myeloma (MM) is an incurable disease, characterized by malignant plasma cells in the bone marrow. MM growth is largely dependent on the tumor microenvironment (TME), consisting of complex cellular networks that shape a tumor-permissive environment. Within the TME, tumor-associated cells (TAC) comprise heterogeneous cell populations that collectively support immunosuppression. Reshaping the TME toward an immunostimulatory environment may enhance effectiveness of immunotherapies. Here, we investigated interactions between donor-derived natural killer (NK) cells and TAC, like tumor-associated macrophages (TAM) and M1 macrophages, and assessed whether anti-tumor effector functions of NK cells could be enhanced by an ADCC-triggering antibody targeting macrophages. Monocytes were polarized in vitro toward either M1 or TAM before co-culture with high-dose IL-2-activated NK cells. NK cell responses were assessed by measuring degranulation (CD107a) and IFN-γ production. We found that NK cells degranulated and produced IFN-γ upon interaction with both macrophage types. NK cell responses against PD-L1+ M1 macrophages could be further enhanced by Avelumab, an anti-PD-L1- and ADCC-inducing antibody. Additionally, NK cell responses were influenced by HLA class I, shown by stronger degranulation in NK cell subsets for which the corresponding HLA ligand was absent on the macrophage target cells (KIR-ligand mismatch) compared to degranulation in the presence of the HLA ligand (KIR-ligand match). Our results suggest that NK cells could, next to killing tumor cells, get activated upon interaction with TAC, like M1 macrophages and TAMs, and that NK cells combined with PD-L1 blocking antibodies with ADCC potential could, through IFN-γ secretion, promote a more immune-favorable TME.
Using deep learning to predict survival outcome in non-surgical cervical cancer patients based on pathological images
Authors: Zhang Kun , Sun Kui , Zhang Caiyi , Ren Kang , Li Chao , Shen Lin , Jing Di
Published: January 2023

Purpose

We analyzed clinical features and the representative HE-stained pathologic images to predict 5-year overall survival via the deep-learning approach in cervical cancer patients in order to assist oncologists in designing the optimal treatment strategies.

Methods

The research retrospectively collected 238 non-surgical cervical cancer patients treated with radiochemotherapy from 2014 to 2017. These patients were randomly divided into the training set (n = 165) and test set (n = 73). Then, we extract deep features after segmenting the HE-stained image into patches of size 224 × 224. A Lasso–Cox model was constructed with clinical data to predict 5-year OS. C-index evaluated this model performance with 95% CI, calibration curve, and ROC.

Results

Based on multivariate analysis, 2 of 11 clinical characteristics (C-index 0.68) and 2 of 2048 pathomic features (C-index 0.74) and clinical–pathomic model (C-index 0.83) of nomograms predict 5-year survival in the training set, respectively. In test set, compared with the pathomic and clinical characteristics used alone, the clinical–pathomic model had an AUC of 0.750 (95% CI 0.540–0.959), the clinical predictor model had an AUC of 0.729 (95% CI 0.551–0.909), and the pathomic model AUC was 0.703 (95% CI 0.487–0.919). Based on appropriate nomogram scores, we divided patients into high-risk and low-risk groups, and Kaplan–Meier survival probability curves for both groups showed statistical differences.

Conclusion

We built a clinical–pathomic model to predict 5-year OS in non-surgical cervical cancer patients, which may be a promising method to improve the precision of personalized therapy.
A model of transmissivity and hydraulic conductivity from electrical resistivity distribution derived from airborne electromagnetic surveys of the Mississippi River Valley Alluvial Aquifer, Midwest USA
Authors: Ikard Scott J. , Minsley Burke J. , Rigby James R. , Kress Wade H.
Published: January 2023

Groundwater-flow models require the spatial distribution of the hydraulic conductivity parameter. One approach to defining this spatial distribution in groundwater-flow model grids is to map the electrical resistivity distribution by airborne electromagnetic (AEM) survey and establish a petrophysical relation between mean resistivity calculated as a nonlinear function of the resistivity layering and thicknesses of the layers and aquifer transmissivity compiled from historical aquifer tests completed within the AEM survey area. The petrophysical relation is used to transform AEM resistivity to transmissivity and to hydraulic conductivity over areas where the saturated thickness of the aquifer is known. The US Geological Survey applied this approach to a gain better understanding of the aquifer properties of the Mississippi River Valley alluvial aquifer. Alluvial-aquifer transmissivity data, compiled from 160 historical aquifer tests in the Mississippi Alluvial Plain (MAP), were correlated to mean resistivity calculated from 16,816 line-kilometers (km) of inverted resistivity soundings produced from a frequency-domain AEM survey of 95,000 km2 of the MAP. Correlated data were used to define petrophysical relations between transmissivity and mean resistivity by omitting from the correlations the aquifer-test and AEM sounding data that were separated by distances greater than 1 km and manually calibrating the relation coefficients to slug-test data. The petrophysical relation yielding the minimum residual error between simulated and slug-test data was applied to 2,364 line-km of AEM soundings in the 1,000-km2 Shellmound (Mississippi) study area to calculate hydraulic property distributions of the alluvial aquifer for use in future groundwater-flow models.
Climate processes and drivers in the Pacific and global warming: a review for informing Pacific planning agencies
Authors: Chand Savin , Power Scott , Walsh Kevin , Holbrook Neil , McInnes Kathleen , Tory Kevin , Ramsay Hamish , Hoeke Ron , Kiem Anthony S.
Published: January 2023

Pacific Island countries are vulnerable to climate variability and change. Developing strategies for adaptation and planning processes in the Pacific requires new knowledge and updated information on climate science. In this paper, we review key climatic processes and drivers that operate in the Pacific, how they may change in the future and what the impact of these changes might be. In particular, our emphasis is on the two major atmospheric circulation patterns, namely the Hadley and Walker circulations. We also examine climatic features such as the South Pacific Convergence Zone and Intertropical Convergence Zone, as well as factors that modulate natural climate variability on different timescales. It is anticipated that our review of the main climate processes and drivers that operate in the Pacific, as well as how these processes and drivers are likely to change in the future under anthropogenic global warming, can help relevant national agencies (such as Meteorological Services and National Disaster Management Offices) clearly communicate new information to sector-specific stakeholders and the wider community through awareness raising.
Bare and Constructional Compositionality
Authors: Gil David
Published: January 2023

This paper proposes a typology of compositionality as manifest in human language and animal communication. At the heart of the typology is a distinction between bare compositionality, in which the meaning of a complex expression is determined solely by the meanings of its constituents, and constructional compositionality, in which the meaning of a complex expression is determined by the meanings of its constituents and also by various aspects of its structure. Bare and constructional compositionality may be observed in human language as well as in various animal communication systems, including primates and birds. Architecturally, bare compositionality provides the foundations for constructional compositionality, while phylogenetically, bare compositionality is a potential starting point for the evolution of constructional compositionality in animal communication and human language.
A framework for fault detection and diagnostics of articulated collaborative robots based on hybrid series modelling of Artificial Intelligence algorithms
Authors: Polenghi Adalberto , Cattaneo Laura , Macchi Marco
Published: January 2023

Smart factories build on cyber-physical systems as one of the most promising technological concepts. Within smart factories, condition-based and predictive maintenance are key solutions to improve competitiveness by reducing downtimes and increasing the overall equipment effectiveness. Besides, the growing interest towards operation flexibility has pushed companies to introduce novel solutions on the shop floor, leading to install cobots for advanced human-machine collaboration. Despite their reliability, also cobots are subjected to degradation and functional failures may influence their operation, leading to anomalous trajectories. In this context, the literature shows gaps in what concerns a systematic adoption of condition-based and predictive maintenance to monitor and predict the health state of cobots to finally assure their expected performance. This work proposes an approach that leverages on a framework for fault detection and diagnostics of cobots inspired by the Prognostics and Health Management process as a guideline. The goal is to habilitate first-level maintenance, which aims at informing the operator about anomalous trajectories. The framework is enabled by a modular structure consisting of hybrid series modelling of unsupervised Artificial Intelligence algorithms, and it is assessed by inducing three functional failures in a 7-axis collaborative robot used for pick and place operations. The framework demonstrates the capability to accommodate and handle different trajectories while notifying the unhealthy state of cobots. Thanks to its structure, the framework is open to testing and comparing more algorithms in future research to identify the best-in-class in each of the proposed steps given the operational context on the shop floor.
Longitudinal Association between Maternal Autonomy Support and Controlling Parenting and Adolescents’ Depressive Symptoms
Authors: Tanaka Ayumi , Tamura Ayame , Ishii Ryo , Ishikawa Shin-ichi , Nakazato Naoki , Ohtani Kazuhiro , Sakaki Michiko , Suzuki Takashi , Murayama Kou
Published: January 2023

Most studies on autonomy support and controlling parenting rely on children’s perceptions, despite the limitations of this approach. This study investigated congruency between autonomy support and controlling parenting reported by mothers and adolescents and their association with adolescents’ depressive symptoms via basic psychological needs satisfaction. Participants included 408 Japanese mother–adolescent (Mage = 13.73, SD = 0.90, 52% female) pairs who completed a questionnaire at two time points four months apart. Results demonstrated low to moderate levels of mother–adolescent agreement. Cross-lagged regression models revealed that mothers’ reported autonomy support positively predicted adolescents’ basic psychological needs satisfactions, which was negatively associated with depressive symptoms. The independent roles of parenting reported by mothers and adolescents for adolescents’ well-being were discussed.
On shift selection for Krylov subspace based model order reduction
Authors: Frie Lennart , Eberhard Peter
Published: January 2023

Mechanical systems are often modeled with the multibody system method or the finite element method and numerically described with systems of differential equations. Increasing demands on detail and the resulting high complexity of these systems make the use of model order reduction inevitable. Frequently, moment matching based on Krylov subspaces is used for the reduction. There, the transfer functions of the full system and of the reduced system are matched at distinct frequency shifts. The selection of these shifts, however, is not trivial. In this contribution we suggest an algorithm that evaluates an increasing number of shifts iteratively until a reduced model that approximates the full model in a subspace with very low approximation error is found. Thereafter, the projection matrix that spans this subspace is decomposed with singular value decomposition and only most important directions are retained. In this way, small reduced models with good approximation properties that do not exceed a predefined error bound can be found or low-error models for a given reduced order can be generated. The evaluation of more shifts than necessary and further reduction by means of singular value decomposition is the novelty of this contribution. In this paper, this novel approach is extensively studied and, furthermore, applied to the numerical example of an industrial helicopter model.
Higher-order rich-club phenomenon in collaborative research grant networks
Authors: Nakajima Kazuki , Shudo Kazuyuki , Masuda Naoki
Published: January 2023

Modern scientific work, including writing papers and submitting research grant proposals, increasingly involves researchers from different institutions. In grant collaborations, it is known that institutions involved in many collaborations tend to densely collaborate with each other, forming rich clubs. Here we investigate higher-order rich-club phenomena in networks of collaborative research grants among institutions and their associations with research impact. Using publicly available data from the National Science Foundation in the US, we construct a bipartite network of institutions and collaborative grants, which distinguishes among the collaboration with different numbers of institutions. By extending the concept and algorithms of the rich club for dyadic networks to the case of bipartite networks, we find rich clubs both in the entire bipartite network and the bipartite subnetwork induced by the collaborative grants involving a given number of institutions up to five. We also find that the collaborative grants within rich clubs tend to be more impactful in a per-dollar sense than the control. Our results highlight advantages of collaborative grants among the institutions in the rich clubs.
Temperature Dependent Depuration of Norovirus GII and Tulane Virus from Oysters (Crassostrea gigas)
Authors: Stoppel Sarah M. , Duinker Arne , Khatri Mamata , Lunestad Bjørn Tore , Myrmel Mette
Published: January 2023

Raw oysters are considered a culinary delicacy but are frequently the culprit in food-borne norovirus (NoV) infections. As commercial depuration procedures are currently unable to efficiently eliminate NoV from oysters, an optimisation of the process should be considered. This study addresses the ability of elevated water temperatures to enhance the elimination of NoV and Tulane virus (TuV) from Pacific oysters (Crassostrea gigas). Both viruses were experimentally bioaccumulated in oysters, which were thereafter depurated at 12 °C and 17 °C for 4 weeks. Infectious TuV and viral RNA were monitored weekly for 28 days by TCID50 and (PMAxx-) RT-qPCR, respectively. TuV RNA was more persistent than NoV and decreased by < 0.5 log10 after 14 days, while NoV reductions were already > 1.0 log10 at this time. For RT-qPCR there was no detectable benefit of elevated water temperatures or PMAxx for either virus (p > 0.05). TuV TCID50 decreased steadily, and reductions were significantly different between the two temperatures (p < 0.001). This was most evident on days 14 and 21 when reductions at 17 °C were 1.3–1.7 log10 higher than at 12 °C. After 3 weeks, reductions > 3.0 log10 were observed at 17 °C, while at 12 °C reductions did not exceed 1.9 log10. The length of depuration also had an influence on virus numbers. TuV reductions increased from < 1.0 log10 after seven days to > 4.0 log10 after 4 weeks. This implies that an extension of the depuration period to more than seven days, possibly in combination with elevated water temperatures, may be beneficial for the inactivation and removal of viral pathogens.
The feasibility of implementing food-based dietary guidelines and food graphics in Ethiopia
Authors: Bekele Tesfaye Hailu , Covic Namukolo , Alemayehu Dawit , Trijsburg Laura E. , Brouwer Inge D. , Feskens Edith J. M. , de Vries Jeanne H. M.
Published: January 2023

This study aimed to test the acceptability, cultural appropriateness, consumers' understanding, and practicality of the Ethiopian food-based dietary guideline's messages, tips, and food graphics. A qualitative study design was applied with focus group discussions and key informant interviews. Four different participant groups were included: 40 consumers, 15 high-level nutrition experts, 30 frontline community health extension workers (HEWs), and 15 agriculture extension workers (AEWs) to incorporate different stakeholder perspectives. Data collection was conducted using 7 focus group discussions (FGDs) and 30 key informant interviews (KIIs). Collected data were coded and analyzed using QSR International NVivo V.11 software. Most of the study participants were highly interested in implementing the dietary guidelines once these guidelines are officially released. Based on the participants' views, most of the messages align with the current nutrition education materials implemented in the country except the messages about physical activity and alcohol intake. However, participants suggested defining technical terms such as ultra-processing, whole grain, safe and balanced diet in simpler terms for a better understanding. Practicality, affordability, availability, and access to the market were the major barriers reported for adherence to the guidelines. To be more inclusive of cultural and religious beliefs, findings show that the guideline should address fasting and traditional cooking methods. In conclusion, the dietary guidelines were well received by most stakeholders. They are thought to be feasible once feedback on wording, affordability, availability, and access is considered in the messages, tips, and graphic designs.
Neurofibromatosis Type 1-Associated Plexiform Neurofibromas of the Face and Adjacent Head Regions: Topography of Lesions and Surgical Treatment Data of 179 Patients
Authors: Friedrich Reinhard E. , Modemann Manuel
Published: January 2023

Introduction

Facial plexiform neurofibromas (FPNF) are rare tumors frequently diagnosed in patients with neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1), a tumor predisposition syndrome. FPNF often grows invasively and destructively, which may complicate surgical treatment. Data on the frequency, location, and surgical procedures of patients with NF1-associated FPNF are scarce. This study provides treatment data from a nationally networked reference center for the treatment of NF1 patients.

Material and Methods

The localization and treatment data of 179 NF1 patients with FPNF were analyzed. Photographically documented tumors of the study area, further determined by imaging, were manually transferred to a facial scheme and digitized. The digitized registrations of the facial extensions of the tumors of each patient were overlaid in a single image (Photoshop™), so that the file of the facial scheme contained the sum of the tumor localization. Finally, the frequency of tumor localization was indicated with a color code. The frequency of tumor extension-related coded colors was applied to outline the lesions' topography on schematic face drawings (heat map).

Results

The distribution of the tumors showed no side preference. The need for the treatment of patients with orbital/periorbital manifestations became evident in the graphic representations. Tumors do not respect anatomical units. However, the classification of the face according to dermatomes, especially the trigeminal nerve, offers indications of tumor spread and guides treatment planning. The mean number of surgical measures per patient was 2.21 (median: 1). Extensive swelling, hematoma, and delayed wound healing were all common postoperative complications.

Conclusion

The color-coded, schematic overview of the frequency distribution of cutaneous tumor spread in NF1 patients with FPNF illustrates the importance of orbital/periorbital and cheek tumor manifestations in patients' treatment needs. The imaging procedure is suitable for controlling natural tumor growth in the same way as the documentation of the post-surgical course. Repeated interventions in the region are included in surgical planning of the progressing tumor disease.