bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Michael/Michael Addition Cascade of 2‐Benzylidene‐1‐indanones with Chalcones: Synthesis and Biological Evaluations of Novel Polycyclic Compounds
Authors: Gezegen Hayreddin , Tutar Uğur , Hepokur Ceylan , Tüzün Gamze , Atioğlu Zeliha , Akkurt Mehmet
Published: September 2021

A series of novel racemic 2‐aryloyl‐1,3‐diaryl‐2,3,3a,8a‐tetrahydrocyclopenta[a]inden‐8(1H)‐one derivatives were synthesized from KOtBu mediated Michael/Michael addition reaction of 2‐benzylidene‐1‐indanones with chalcones in high yields. This method provides an efficient route for the synthesis of a new class of polycyclic compounds have five stereo centers. The obtained polycyclic compounds were evaluated for the antimicrobial and anticancer activities against fifteen microorganism and three cell lines. The compound 3 r have the best activity value against the cells (MCF‐7 IC50=18.01±0.39 μg/mL) (MDA‐MB‐ 231 IC50=18.78±1.75 μg/mL) (MCF‐10 A IC50=31.31±0.05 μg/mL).
Bacteria‐Targeted MRI Probe‐Based Imaging Bacterial Infection and Monitoring Antimicrobial Therapy In Vivo
Authors: Li Linyao , Gu Peilin , Hao Mengqi , Xiang Xiaoli , Feng Yuting , Zhu Xiaokang , Song Yang , Song Erqun
Published: September 2021

Despite the significant advances of imaging techniques nowadays, accurate diagnosis of bacterial infections and real‐time monitoring the efficacy of antibiotic therapy in vivo still remain huge challenges. Herein, a self‐assembling peptide (FFYEGK) and vancomycin (Van) antibiotic molecule co‐modified gadolinium (Gd) MRI nanoaggregate probe (GFV) for detecting Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) infection in vivo and monitoring the treatment of S. aureus‐infected myositis by using daptomycin (Dap) antibiotic as model are designed and fabricated. The as‐prepared GFV probe bears Van molecules, making itself good bacteria‐specific targeting, and the peptide in the probe can enhance the longitudinal relaxivity rate (r1) after self‐assembly due to the π–π stacking. The study showed that, based on the GFV probe, bacterial infections and sterile inflammation can be discriminated, and as few as 105 cfu S. aureus can be detected in vivo with high specificity and accurately. Moreover, the T1 signal of GFV probe at the S. aureus‐infected site in mice correlates with the increasing time of Dap treating, indicating the possibility of monitoring the efficacy of antibacterial agents for infected mice based on the as proposed GFV probe. This study shows the potential of GFV probe for diagnosis, evaluation, and prognosis of infectious diseases in clinics.
Dual‐Functional MgO Nanocrystals Satisfying Both Polysulfides and Li Regulation toward Advanced Lithium−Sulfur Full Batteries
Authors: Wang Peng , Xi Baojuan , Zhang Zhengchunyu , Song Ning , Chen Weihua , Feng Jinkui , Xiong Shenglin
Published: September 2021

Lithium–sulfur battery (LSB) is regarded as a preferential option for next‐generation energy‐storage system, but the lithium polysulfides (LiPSs) shuttling effect and the uncontrollable growth of dendritic Li in the anode impede its commercial viability. To address both of the issues simultaneously, a well‐designed hybrid of MgO ultrafine nanocrystals dispersed on graphene‐supported carbon nanosheets (MCG) is developed via a facile self‐template strategy as dual‐functional host for both sulfur and lithium. Relying on the coordination of strong LiPS‐capturing capability, the shuttling effect is inhibited. Furthermore, the lithiophilic configuration with high specific surface area induce homogenous Li deposition, thus preventing the formation of disordered lithium dendrite. Integrating all these advantages, a full cell based on S@MCG cathode and Li@MCG@Cu anode exhibits a stable capacity at 0.5 C for 150 cycles with a low capacity fading rate. Furthermore, the full cell achieves a high capacity retention of 85.5% at a high S areal loading of 3.82 mg cm−2 under the condition of a low electrolyte/sulfur ratio (E/S) of 6.5 µL mg−1 and negative/positive capacity ratio (N/P) of 3. This strategy satisfying both cathode and anode host provides a viable approach to realize high‐energy‐density and dendrite‐free LSBs.
ZnFe2O4 Dendrite/SnO2 Helix 3D Hetero‐Structure Photoanodes for Enhanced Photoelectrochemical Water Splitting: Triple Functions of SnO2 Nanohelix
Authors: Kim Jeong Hun , Choi Il Yong , Kim Jin Hyun , Kim Jaerim , Kim Young Kyeong , Kim Jong Kyu , Lee Jae Sung
Published: September 2021

An array of SnO2 nanohelix structures is employed to fabricate a SnO2 helix@ZnFe2O4 dendrite core‐shell 3D heterostructure photoanode for photoelectrochemical (PEC) water splitting. The SnO2 helix provides triple critical functions to enhance the PEC performance of the photoanode. First, it scatters the incident light to achieve a higher light harvesting efficiency. Second, it provides a facile electron pathway as an electron transfer layer (ETL) while blocking hole transport to mitigate charge recombination in the bulk of ZnFe2O4. Finally, it becomes a template for the formation of ZnFe2O4 dendrite nanostructure shell. The ZnFe2O4 dendrite/SnO2 helix photoanode exhibits a remarkable increase in incident photon‐to‐electron conversion efficiency compared to unmodified ZnFe2O4 with no ETL and modified one with "flat" SnO2 ETL. The surface of the ZnFe2O4/SnO2 helix photoanode is further modified with TiO2 passivation layer and NiFeOx oxygen evolution co‐catalyst to achieve one of the best PEC performances among reported ZnFe2O4‐based photoanodes.
Use of thoracic ultrasound on Scottish dairy cattle farms to support the diagnosis and treatment of bovine respiratory disease in calves
Authors: Baxter‐Smith Katharine , More James , Hyde Robert
Published: September 2021

Background

Bovine respiratory disease (BRD) is common in cattle youngstock on UK dairy farms. The current diagnostic methods lack sensitivity and specificity. Thoracic ultrasound (TUS) is a relatively new BRD diagnostic tool with increased accuracy.

Method

Data were collected from TUS examinations of 347 calves on Scottish dairy farms and compared to farmer BRD treatment rates. A calf health scoring tool was used to collect information on youngstock health and management on these farms.

Results

Of 347 ultrasonographic examinations, 53 (15.3%) were classified as abnormal and 294 (84.7%) as normal. Of the 53 calves classified as abnormal, only 13 (24.5%) were treated by the farmer; however, of the 294 classified as normal, 22 (7.5%) were treated.

Conclusion

The results indicated farmers were misdiagnosing BRD in youngstock. Use of TUS on UK farms may improve diagnostic rates and accuracy, reduce the unnecessary use of antimicrobials and demonstrate the value of preventive healthcare programmes.
Optimization of the ultraviolet–visible absorption properties of nano‐particle TiO2: Influence of milling, surface area and surfactants on particle‐size distribution, and stability of isocyanate/acrylic paints
Authors: Allen Norman S. , Edge Michele , Hill Claire , Kerrod Julie Maltby
Published: September 2021

The ultraviolet–visible (UV–Vis) absorption properties of a range of nano‐particle titanium dioxides have been optimized and interrelated to the effects of the nature of calcination versus wet milling methodologies. Different inorganic and organic surfactants and surface treatments were also assessed. The TiO2 particles as prepared were characterized using X‐Ray diffraction spectrometry (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), BET, UV/Vis spectroscopy, and CPS disk centrifuge. Data are related to their spectral absorption properties and weathering stability in an isocyanate‐acrylic coating via gloss retention and weight loss. The choice of particle size is a compromise between UVA absorption, UVB absorption, visible transmission, and photoactivity. It is demonstrated that TiO2 with a crystallite size of 25 nm yields a product with the optimum properties. A method using UV/visible absorption spectroscopy has been developed and found to give excellent sensitivity to particle size was shown with CPS (disk centrifuge). It is shown to be a useful way to assess nano‐TiO2 dispersions. The wet milling of the base TiO2 before surface treatment was also optimized utilizing different dispersants. It was shown that using the ratio of absorbance at 300:550 nm is a good approximation for the ratio of the whole area under the curve in the UV spectrum to that in the visible region. This was used as an indication of the generation of smaller fragments generated by milling the larger aggregates. The particle‐size distribution and nature of the wet‐milling process significantly influenced the subsequent accelerated ATLAS weathering performance of the titania particles in an isocyanate‐acrylic coating.
Applications of the versatile CRISPR‐Cas13 RNA targeting system
Authors: Kordyś Martyna , Sen Raneet , Warkocki Zbigniew
Published: September 2021

CRISPR‐Cas are adaptable natural prokaryotic defense systems that act against invading viruses and plasmids. Among the six currently known major CRISPR‐Cas types, the type VI CRISPR‐Cas13 is the only one known to exclusively bind and cleave foreign RNA. Within the last couple of years, this system has been adapted to serve numerous, and sometimes not obvious, applications, including some that might be developed as effective molecular therapies. Indeed, Cas13 has been adapted to kill antibiotic‐resistant bacteria. In a cell‐free environment, Cas13 has been used in the development of highly specific, sensitive, multiplexing‐capable, and field‐adaptable detection tools. Importantly, Cas13 can be reprogrammed and applied to eukaryotes to either combat pathogenic RNA viruses or in the regulation of gene expression, facilitating the knockdown of mRNA, circular RNA, and noncoding RNA. Furthermore, Cas13 has been harnessed for in vivo RNA modifications including programmable regulation of alternative splicing, A‐to‐I and C to U editing, and m6A modifications. Finally, approaches allowing for the detection and characterization of RNA‐interacting proteins have also been demonstrated. Here, we provide a comprehensive overview of the applications utilizing CRISPR‐Cas13 that illustrate its versatility. We also discuss the most important limitations of the CRISPR‐Cas13‐based technologies, and controversies regarding them.

This article is categorized under:

RNA Methods > RNA Analyses in Cells

RNA Processing > RNA Editing and Modification

RNA Interactions with Proteins and Other Molecules > Protein‐RNA Interactions: Functional Implications
Swampland geometry and the gauge couplings
Authors: Cecotti Sergio
Published: September 2021

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is two-fold. First we review in detail the geometric aspects of the swampland program for supersymmetric 4d effective theories using a new and unifying language we dub “domestic geometry”, the generalization of special Kähler geometry which does not require the underlying manifold to be Kähler or have a complex structure. All 4d SUGRAs are described by domestic geometry. As special Kähler geometries, domestic geometries carry formal brane amplitudes: when the domestic geometry describes the supersymmetric low-energy limit of a consistent quantum theory of gravity, its formal brane amplitudes have the right properties to be actual branes. The main datum of the domestic geometry of a 4d SUGRA is its gauge coupling, seen as a map from a manifold which satisfies the geometric Ooguri-Vafa conjectures to the Siegel variety; to understand the properties of the quantum-consistent gauge couplings we discuss several novel aspects of such “Ooguri-Vafa” manifolds, including their Liouville properties.

Our second goal is to present some novel speculation on the extension of the swampland program to non-supersymmetric effective theories of gravity. The idea is that the domestic geometric description of the quantum-consistent effective theories extends, possibly with some qualifications, also to the non-supersymmetric case.
Plasticity and flexibility in the anti-predator responses of treefrog tadpoles
Authors: Sergio Castellano , Luca Racca , Olivier Friard
Published: September 2021

Tadpoles can respond to perceived predation risk by adjusting their life history, morphology, and behavior in an adaptive way. Adaptive phenotypic plasticity can evolve by natural selection only if there is variation in reaction norms and if this variation is, at least in part, heritable. To provide insights into the evolution of adaptive phenotypic plasticity, we analyzed the environmental and parental components of variation in predator-induced life history (age and size at metamorphosis), morphology (tail depth), and behavior of Italian treefrog tadpoles (Hyla intermedia). Using an incomplete factorial design, we raised tadpoles either with or without caged predators (dragonfly larvae, gen.Aeshna) and, successively, we tested them in experimental arenas either with or without caged predators. Results provided strong evidence for an environmental effect on all three sets of characters. Tadpoles raised with caged predators (dragonfly larvae, gen.Aeshna) metamorphosed earlier (but at a similar body size) and developed deeper tails than their fullsib siblings raised without predators. In the experimental arenas, all tadpoles, independent of their experience, flexibly changed their activity and position, depending on whether the cage was empty or contained the predator. Tadpoles of the two experimental groups, however, showed different responses: those raised with predators were always less active than their predator-naive siblings and differences slightly increased in the presence of predators. Besides this strong environmental component of phenotypic variation, results provided evidence also for parental and parental-by-environment effects, which were strong on life-history, but weak on morphology and behavior. Interestingly, additive parental effects were explained mainly by dams. This supports the hypothesis that phenotypic plasticity might mainly depend on maternal effects and that it might be the expression of condition-dependent mechanisms.

Significance statement

Animals, by plastically adjusting their phenotypes to the local environments, can often sensibly improve their chances of survival, suggesting the hypothesis that phenotypic plasticity evolved by natural selection. We test this hypothesis in the Italian treefrog tadpoles, by investigating the heritable variation in the plastic response to predators (dragonfly larvae). Using an incomplete factorial common-garden experiment, we showed that tadpoles raised with predators metamorphosed earlier (but at similar body size), developed deeper tails, and were less active than their siblings raised without predators. The plastic response varied among families, but variation showed a stronger maternal than paternal component. This suggests that plasticity might largely depend on epigenetic factors and be the expression of condition-dependent mechanisms.
A geometric analysis of the SIRS epidemiological model on a homogeneous network
Authors: Jardón-Kojakhmetov Hildeberto , Kuehn Christian , Pugliese Andrea , Sensi Mattia
Published: September 2021

We study a fast–slow version of an SIRS epidemiological model on homogeneous graphs, obtained through the application of the moment closure method. We use GSPT to study the model, taking into account that the infection period is much shorter than the average duration of immunity. We show that the dynamics occurs through a sequence of fast and slow flows, that can be described through 2-dimensional maps that, under some assumptions, can be approximated as 1-dimensional maps. Using this method, together with numerical bifurcation tools, we show that the model can give rise to periodic solutions, differently from the corresponding model based on homogeneous mixing.
Spring-assisted posterior vault expansion—a single-centre experience of 200 cases
Authors: Breakey R. William F. , van de Lande Lara S. , Sidpra Jai , Knoops Paul M. , Borghi Alessandro , O’Hara Justine , Ong Juling , James Greg , Hayward Richard , Schievano Silvia , Dunaway David J. , Jeelani N ul Owase
Published: September 2021

Purpose

Children affected by premature fusion of the cranial sutures due to craniosynostosis can present with raised intracranial pressure and (turri)brachycephalic head shapes that require surgical treatment. Spring-assisted posterior vault expansion (SA-PVE) is the surgical technique of choice at Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children (GOSH), London, UK. This study aims to report the SA-PVE clinical experience of GOSH to date.

Methods

A retrospective review was carried out including all SA-PVE cases performed at GOSH between 2008 and 2020. Demographic and clinical data were recorded including genetic diagnosis, craniofacial surgical history, surgical indication and assessment, age at time of surgery (spring insertion and removal), operative time, in-patient stay, blood transfusion requirements, additional/secondary (cranio)facial procedures, and complications.

Results

Between 2008 and 2020, 200 SA-PVEs were undertaken in 184 patients (61% male). The study population consisted of patients affected by syndromic (65%) and non-syndromic disorders. Concerns regarding raised intracranial pressure were the surgical driver in 75% of the cases, with the remainder operated for shape correction. Median age for SA-PVE was 19 months (range, 2–131). Average operative time for first SA-PVE was 150 min and 87 for spring removal. Median in-patient stay was 3 nights, and 88 patients received a mean of 204.4 ml of blood transfusion at time of spring insertion. A single SA-PVE sufficed in 156 patients (85%) to date (26 springs still in situ at time of this analysis); 16 patients underwent repeat SA-PVE, whilst 12 underwent rigid redo. A second SA-PVE was needed in significantly more cases when the first SA-PVE was performed before age 1 year. Complications occurred in 26 patients with a total of 32 events, including one death. Forty-one patients underwent fronto-orbital remodelling at spring removal and 22 required additional cranio(maxillo)facial procedures.

Conclusions

Spring-assisted posterior vault expansion is a safe, efficient, and effective procedure based on our 12-year experience. Those that are treated early in life might require a repeat SA-PVE. Long-term follow-up is recommended as some would require additional craniomaxillofacial correction later in life.
Strong evidence supporting a relationship between colour pattern and apparent survival in common crossbills
Authors: Fernández-Eslava Blanca , Alonso Daniel , Galicia David , Arizaga Juan
Published: September 2021

Carotenoid staining has been repeatedly shown to serve as a sexually selected individual quality signal. In different species, individuals that show brighter carotenoid-based signals have been found to have superior feeding abilities, recover faster from disease, and generally enjoy better body condition. In the common crossbill (Loxia curvirostra), the colour has also been related to the different populations, with northern and central European populations being described as redder than those in the Mediterranean region. A study in the Pyrenees showed that long-winged individuals had lower apparent survival, and the proportion of red individuals was higher in long-winged birds, concluding that they could be nomadic birds (that travel long distances). A priori, if the red crossbills are more mobile than the yellow and orange ones, their apparent survival will be lower. However, in our study, red males showed a greater survival than males of other colours and almost double than that of the yellow ones. These results suggest that red coloration is linked to higher quality individuals regardless of their mobility.
Climatic and anthropogenic factors affect Ailanthus altissima invasion in a Mediterranean region
Authors: Motti Riccardo , Zotti Maurizio , Bonanomi Giuliano , Cozzolino Alessia , Stinca Adriano , Migliozzi Antonello
Published: September 2021

Ailanthus altissima is an aggressive invasive tree worldwide, but the ecological factors that lead to the spread of this species in Mediterranean ecosystems are still unclear. Here we aim to identify such factors, focusing on the interaction of human activity with climatic conditions. We determined the occurrence and abundance of Ailanthus in 240 sites and studied their relationship with 20 variables representing climatic, geographic, and topographic factors, as well as land use, in the region of Campania (southern Italy). Overall, we found that temperature and rainfall in Campania are suitable for Ailanthus, with the only major constraint being the temperature at an altitude exceeding 900 m a.s.l.. We found that Ailanthus is unable to spread where the mean annual temperature is lower than 11.1 °C. By contrast, precipitation variables showed poor correlation with Ailanthus distribution, suggesting that rainfall in the selected study sites is suitable to sustain the growth of this tree. About land use variables, roads were the primary landscape feature along which this species spread and invaded new areas. Roads probably combine high propagule pressure and favorable growing conditions in terms of available resources i.e., light, water, and mineral nutrients, that allow Ailanthus to establish and spread along roadside edges in different ecosystems. In conclusion, we found that climate and human-associated variables are correlated with the current occurrence of Ailanthus, with the temperature being more influential at high elevation sites and road distance playing a prominent role in low elevation areas.
Variability of limestone knapping methods in Middle Palaeolithic levels M and Ob of Abric Romaní (Barcelona, Spain)
Authors: Eixea Aleix , Bargalló Amèlia , Gómez de Soler Bruno , Romagnoli Francesca , Vaquero Manuel , Saladié Palmira , Carbonell Eudald , Vallverdú Josep , Chacón M. Gema
Published: September 2021

This paper presents the limestone reduction sequences documented in levels M and Ob at Abric Romaní from a technological point of view. At level M, a recurrent knapping system has been identified, resulting in the frequency of pseudo-Levallois blanks. At archaeolevel Ob, the presence of Levallois methods are observed in association with this knapping system. In both cases, retouched tools are rare and dominated by notches and denticulates. Although it is not well-known the degree of similarity and difference between the two levels in relation to occupational patterns is not well understood, Neanderthals employed more opportunistic knapping strategies, investing less time and energy in the procurement of raw materials including for chert. In level Ob, although limestone is still collected in the local fluvial deposits, differences in raw material procurement have been identified for chert. Results show the plasticity and versality that Neanderthals had and how they took advantage of the different abiotic resources they had around them. In this paper, we discuss the limestone technology at Abric Romaní in the context of the Iberian Peninsula.
Asymptotic action and asymptotic winding number for area-preserving diffeomorphisms of the disk
Authors: Bechara Senior David
Published: September 2021

Given a compactly supported area-preserving diffeomorphism of the disk, we prove an integral formula relating the asymptotic action to the asymptotic winding number. As a corollary, we obtain a new proof of Fathi’s integral formula for the Calabi homomorphism on the disk.
The dilemma between eliminating dominance-resistant solutions and preserving boundary solutions of extremely convex Pareto fronts
Authors: Wang Zhenkun , Li Qingyan , Yang Qite , Ishibuchi Hisao
Published: September 2021

It has been acknowledged that dominance-resistant solutions (DRSs) extensively exist in the feasible region of multi-objective optimization problems. Recent studies show that DRSs can cause serious performance degradation of many multi-objective evolutionary algorithms (MOEAs). Thereafter, various strategies (e.g., the $$\epsilon $$
ϵ
-dominance and the modified objective calculation) to eliminate DRSs have been proposed. However, these strategies may in turn cause algorithm inefficiency in other aspects. We argue that these coping strategies prevent the algorithm from obtaining some boundary solutions of an extremely convex Pareto front (ECPF). That is, there is a dilemma between eliminating DRSs and preserving boundary solutions of the ECPF. To illustrate such a dilemma, we propose a new multi-objective optimization test problem with the ECPF as well as DRSs. Using this test problem, we investigate the performance of six representative MOEAs in terms of boundary solutions preservation and DRS elimination. The results reveal that it is quite challenging to distinguish between DRSs and boundary solutions of the ECPF.
Bayes Factor Model Comparisons Across Parameter Values for Mixed Models
Authors: Linde Maximilian , van Ravenzwaaij Don
Published: September 2021

Nested data structures, in which conditions include multiple trials and are fully crossed with participants, are often analyzed using repeated-measures analysis of variance or mixed-effects models. Typically, researchers are interested in determining whether there is an effect of the experimental manipulation. These kinds of analyses have different appropriate specifications for the null and alternative models, and a discussion on which is to be preferred and when is sorely lacking. van Doorn et al. (2021) performed three types of Bayes factor model comparisons on a simulated data set in order to examine which model comparison is most suitable for quantifying evidence for or against the presence of an effect of the experimental manipulation. Here, we extend their results by simulating multiple data sets for various scenarios and by using different prior specifications. We demonstrate how three different Bayes factor model comparison types behave under changes in different parameters, and we make concrete recommendations on which model comparison is most appropriate for different scenarios.
Interactions between dietary fibre and the gut microbiota
Authors: Thomson Catriona , Garcia Ada L. , Edwards Christine A.
Published: September 2021

Research characterising the gut microbiota in different populations and diseases has mushroomed since the advent of next-generation sequencing techniques. However, there has been less emphasis on the impact of dietary fibres and other dietary components that influence gut microbial metabolic activities. Dietary fibres are the main energy source for gut bacteria. However, fibres differ in their physicochemical properties, their effects on the gut and their fermentation characteristics. The diversity of carbohydrates and associated molecules in fibre-rich foods can have a major influence on microbiota composition and production of bioactive molecules, for example SCFAs and phenolic acids. Several of these microbial metabolites may influence the functions of body systems including the gut, liver, adipose tissues and brain. Dietary fibre intake recommendations have recently been increased (to 30 g daily) in response to growing obesity and other health concerns. Increasing intakes of specific fibre and plant food sources may differentially influence the bacteria and their metabolism. However,in vitrostudies show great individual variability in the response of the gut microbiota to different fibres and fibre combinations, making it difficult to predict which foods or food components will have the greatest impact on levels of bioactive molecules produced in the colon of individuals. Greater understanding of individual responses to manipulation of the diet, in relation to microbiome composition and production of metabolites with proven beneficial impact on body systems, would allow the personalised approach needed to best promote good health.
Diet and gut microbiota manipulation for the management of Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis
Authors: Svolos Vaios , Gkikas Konstantinos , Gerasimidis Konstantinos
Published: September 2021

The aetiology of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is multifactorial, with diet and gut microbiota playing an important role. Nonetheless, there are very few studies, particularly clinical research, which have explored the interaction between diet and gut microbiota. In the current review, we summarise the evidence from clinical trials exploring the interactions between the gut microbiota and diet in the management of IBD. Data from the effect of exclusive enteral nutrition (EEN) on the gut microbiota of children with active Crohn's disease (CD), receiving induction treatment, offer opportunities to understand the role of gut microbiota in underlying disease pathogenesis and develop novel dietary and pharmacological microbial therapeutics. In contrast, the evidence which links the effectiveness of food-based dietary therapies for IBD with mechanisms involving the gut microbiota is far less convincing. The microbial signals arising from these dietary therapies are inconsistent and vary compared to the effects of effective treatment with EEN in CD.
Antidepressant use in low- middle- and high-income countries: a World Mental Health Surveys report
Authors: Kazdin Alan E. , Wu Chi-Shin , Hwang Irving , Puac-Polanco Victor , Sampson Nancy A. , Al-Hamzawi Ali , Alonso Jordi , Andrade Laura Helena , Benjet Corina , Caldas-de-Almeida José-Miguel , de Girolamo Giovanni , de Jonge Peter , Florescu Silvia , Gureje Oye , Haro Josep M. , Harris Meredith G. , Karam Elie G. , Karam Georges , Kovess-Masfety Viviane , Lee Sing , McGrath John J. , Navarro-Mateu Fernando , Nishi Daisuke , Oladeji Bibilola D. , Posada-Villa José , Stein Dan J. , Üstün T. Bedirhan , Vigo Daniel V. , Zarkov Zahari , Zaslavsky Alan M. , Kessler Ronald C. ,   the WHO World Mental Health Survey collaborators
Published: September 2021

Background

The most common treatment for major depressive disorder (MDD) is antidepressant medication (ADM). Results are reported on frequency of ADM use, reasons for use, and perceived effectiveness of use in general population surveys across 20 countries.

Methods

Face-to-face interviews with community samples totaling n = 49 919 respondents in the World Health Organization (WHO) World Mental Health (WMH) Surveys asked about ADM use anytime in the prior 12 months in conjunction with validated fully structured diagnostic interviews. Treatment questions were administered independently of diagnoses and asked of all respondents.

Results

3.1% of respondents reported ADM use within the past 12 months. In high-income countries (HICs), depression (49.2%) and anxiety (36.4%) were the most common reasons for use. In low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), depression (38.4%) and sleep problems (31.9%) were the most common reasons for use. Prevalence of use was 2–4 times as high in HICs as LMICs across all examined diagnoses. Newer ADMs were proportionally used more often in HICs than LMICs. Across all conditions, ADMs were reported as very effective by 58.8% of users and somewhat effective by an additional 28.3% of users, with both proportions higher in LMICs than HICs. Neither ADM class nor reason for use was a significant predictor of perceived effectiveness.

Conclusion

ADMs are in widespread use and for a variety of conditions including but going beyond depression and anxiety. In a general population sample from multiple LMICs and HICs, ADMs were widely perceived to be either very or somewhat effective by the people who use them.
Antipsychotic treatment effects and structural MRI brain changes in schizophrenia
Authors: Emsley Robin , du Plessis Stefan , Phahladira Lebogang , Luckhoff Hilmar K. , Scheffler Frederika , Kilian Sanja , Smit Retha , Buckle Chanelle , Chiliza Bonginkosi , Asmal Laila
Published: September 2021

Background

Progressive brain structural MRI changes are described in schizophrenia and have been ascribed to both illness progression and antipsychotic treatment. We investigated treatment effects, in terms of total cumulative antipsychotic dose, efficacy and tolerability, on brain structural changes over the first 24 months of treatment in schizophrenia.

Methods

A prospective, 24-month, single-site cohort study in 99 minimally treated patients with first-episode schizophrenia, schizophreniform and schizoaffective disorder, and 98 matched healthy controls. We treated the patients according to a fixed protocol with flupenthixol decanoate, a long-acting injectable antipsychotic. We assessed psychopathology, cognition, extrapyramidal symptoms and BMI, and acquired MRI scans at months 0, 12 and 24. We selected global cortical thickness, white matter volume and basal ganglia volume as the regions of interest.

Results

The only significant group × time interaction was for basal ganglia volumes. However, patients, but not controls, displayed cortical thickness reductions and increases in white matter and basal ganglia volumes. Cortical thickness reductions were unrelated to treatment. White matter volume increases were associated with lower cumulative antipsychotic dose, greater improvements in psychopathology and cognition, and more extrapyramidal symptoms. Basal ganglia volume increases were associated with greater improvements in psychopathology, greater increases in BMI and more extrapyramidal symptoms.

Conclusions

We provide evidence for plasticity in white matter and basal ganglia associated with antipsychotic treatment in schizophrenia, most likely linked to the dopamine blocking actions of these agents. Cortical changes may be more closely related to the neurodevelopmental, non-dopaminergic aspects of the illness.
Rebuilding Authority: The Party's Relationship with Its Grassroots Organizations
Authors: Mittelstaedt Jean Christopher
Published: September 2021

While existing scholarship looks at the relationship between the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) and emerging social strata and civil society, the Party's impact on its own grassroots has been largely overlooked. How does the Party manage its own grassroots members? I argue that the CCP has ritualized its management practices in recent years. Drawing from a dataset of 1,408 “Thematic Party Days” (TPDs) conducted by grassroots Party branches in Beijing, I show how such practices are geared towards integrating ordinary Party members with the Party centre in Beijing and the Party in general. This reflects a major shift in the Party's organizational strategy, moving away from embracing market values and towards reproducing the Party's values and ideology at the grassroots.
Deepening Not Departure: Xi Jinping's Governance of China's State-owned Economy
Authors: Leutert Wendy , Eaton Sarah
Published: September 2021

To what extent has governance of China's state-owned economy changed under Xi Jinping? Against the background of momentous shifts in the political arena since 2012, some observe a decisive departure in Xi's approach to managing state-owned enterprises (SOEs): towards tight centralized control by the Chinese Communist Party and away from gradual marketization. Analysing the main aims and methods of SOE governance over the last two decades, we find that SOE policy under Xi exhibits a deepening of pre-existing trends rather than a departure. First, the essential vision of SOE functions articulated under Xi is strikingly consistent with that of his predecessors. Second, his administration's approach to governing SOEs is not novel; it relies on established mechanisms of bureaucratic design, the cadre management system, Party organizations and campaigns. While Xi has amplified Party-centred tools of command and control, this appears to be an incremental rather than a radical shift in approach.
The relationship between diet quality and the severity of household food insecurity in Canada
Authors: Hutchinson Joy , Tarasuk Valerie
Published: September 2021

Objective:

To examine the relationship between the dietary quality of Canadian children and adults and household food insecurity status.

Design:

Dietary intake was assessed with one 24-h recall. Households were classified as food secure or marginally, moderately or severely food insecure based on their responses to the Household Food Security Survey Module. We applied multivariable analyses of variance to determine whether % energy from ultra-processed foods, fruit and vegetable intake, Healthy Eating Index (HEI) scores, macronutrient composition and micronutrient intakes per 1000 kcal differed by food insecurity status after accounting for income, education and region. Analyses were run separately for children 1–8 years and 9–18 years and men and women 19–64 years of age.

Setting:

Ten provinces in Canada.

Participants:

Respondents to the 2015 Canadian Community Health Survey-Nutrition, aged 1–64 years, with complete food insecurity data and non-zero energy intakes, N 15 909.

Results:

Among adults and children, % energy from ultra-processed foods was strongly related to severity of food insecurity, but no significant trend was observed for fruit and vegetable intake or HEI score. Carbohydrate, total sugar, fat and saturated fat intake/1000 kcal did not differ by food insecurity status, but there was a significant negative trend in protein/1000 kcal among older children, a positive trend in Na/1000 kcal among younger children and inverse associations between food insecurity severity and several micronutrients/1000 kcal among adults and older children.

Conclusions:

With more severe household food insecurity, ultra-processed food consumption was higher, and diet quality was generally lower among both adults and children.
A REVIEW OF ONE-PHASE HELE-SHAW FLOWS AND A LEVEL-SET METHOD FOR NONSTANDARD CONFIGURATIONS
Authors: MORROW LIAM C. , MORONEY TIMOTHY J. , DALLASTON MICHAEL C. , MCCUE SCOTT W.
Published: September 2021

The classical model for studying one-phase Hele-Shaw flows is based on a highly nonlinear moving boundary problem with the fluid velocity related to pressure gradients via a Darcy-type law. In a standard configuration with the Hele-Shaw cell made up of two flat stationary plates, the pressure is harmonic. Therefore, conformal mapping techniques and boundary integral methods can be readily applied to study the key interfacial dynamics, including the Saffman–Taylor instability and viscous fingering patterns. As well as providing a brief review of these key issues, we present a flexible numerical scheme for studying both the standard and nonstandard Hele-Shaw flows. Our method consists of using a modified finite-difference stencil in conjunction with the level-set method to solve the governing equation for pressure on complicated domains and track the location of the moving boundary. Simulations show that our method is capable of reproducing the distinctive morphological features of the Saffman–Taylor instability on a uniform computational grid. By making straightforward adjustments, we show how our scheme can easily be adapted to solve for a wide variety of nonstandard configurations, including cases where the gap between the plates is linearly tapered, the plates are separated in time, and the entire Hele-Shaw cell is rotated at a given angular velocity.
Transformation-Enabled Precondition Inference
Authors: KAFLE BISHOKSAN , GANGE GRAEME , STUCKEY PETER J. , SCHACHTE PETER , SØNDERGAARD HARALD
Published: September 2021

Precondition inference is a non-trivial problem with important applications in program analysis and verification. We present a novel iterative method for automatically deriving preconditions for the safety and unsafety of programs. Each iteration maintains over-approximations of the set of safe and unsafe initial states, which are used to partition the program’s initial states into those known to be safe, known to be unsafe and unknown. We then construct revised programs with those unknown initial states and iterate the procedure until the approximations are disjoint or some termination criteria are met. An experimental evaluation of the method on a set of software verification benchmarks shows that it can infer precise preconditions (sometimes optimal) that are not possible using previous methods.
I-DLV-sr: A Stream Reasoning System based on I-DLV
Authors: CALIMERI FRANCESCO , MANNA MARCO , MASTRIA ELENA , MORELLI MARIA CONCETTA , PERRI SIMONA , ZANGARI JESSICA
Published: September 2021

We introduce a novel logic-based system for reasoning over data streams, which relies on a framework enabling a tight, fine-tuned interaction between Apache Flink and the
$${{\mathcal I}^2}$$
-DLV system. The architecture allows to take advantage from both the powerful distributed stream processing capabilities of Flink and the incremental reasoning capabilities of
$${{\mathcal I}^2}$$
-DLV, based on overgrounding techniques. Besides the system architecture, we illustrate the supported input language and its modeling capabilities, and discuss the results of an experimental activity aimed at assessing the viability of the approach.
Women Tend to Perceive Greater Risks Associated With the COVID-19	Outbreak and Are More Likely to Follow Precautionary Measures
Authors: Prati Gabriele , Stefani Serena , Barbieri Irene
Published: September 2021

Abstract. Background: The COVID-19 pandemic may have a different impact on men and women. Aim: This study aimed to investigate gender differences in risk perception, attitudes toward quarantine measures, and adoption of precautionary behaviors during the COVID-19 pandemic. Method: We employed a cross-sectional web-based survey design. The sample included 1,569 people living in Italy. The survey was conducted during the national lockdown in April 2020 when the Italian government extended the quarantine measures to the whole country. Results: Results showed that women reported higher scores on perceived severity, worry, precautionary behaviors, and attitudes toward quarantine restrictions. Gender differences in the perceived likelihood of infection with SARS-CoV-2 were not significant. Using mediation analysis, we found that the relationship between gender and precautionary behaviors was explained by attitudes toward quarantine restrictions, perceived severity, and worry. Limitations: The use of a cross-sectional design precludes causal inference. Conclusion: Our results point to the need to develop and implement interventions that address (1) the higher levels of risk perception of the COVID-19 outbreak among women and (2) the lower scores on risk perception, attitudes toward quarantine restrictions, and adoption of precautionary behaviors during the COVID-19 pandemic among men.
Was the January 26th, 1700 Cascadia Earthquake Part of a Rupture Sequence?
Authors: Melgar Diego
Published: September 2021

Coastal subsidence, dating of plant remains and tree rings, and evidence for tsunami inundation point to coseismic activity on a sizable portion of the Cascadia subduction zone around three centuries ago. A tsunami of remote origin in 1700 C.E., probably from Cascadia, caused flooding and damage in Japan. In previous modeling, this transpacific evidence was found most simply explained by one Cascadia rupture about 1,000 km long. Here I model tens of thousands of ruptures and simulate their subsidence and tsunami signals and show that it is possible that the earthquake was part of a sequence of several events. Partial rupture of ∼400 km offshore southern Oregon and northern California in one large M ≥ 8.7 earthquake can explain the tsunami in Japan without conflicting with the subsidence. As many as four more earthquakes with M ≤ 8.7 can complete the subsidence signal without their tsunamis being large enough to be recorded in Japan. The purpose of this study is not to find a single, most likely, scenario or disprove the single‐rupture hypothesis favored by alternative evidence such as turbidites. Rather, it demonstrates that a multiple rupture sequence may explain part of the available data, and therefore cannot be discounted. Given the gaps in the presently available estimates of subsidence it is also possible that segments of the megathrust, for example from Copalis to the Strait of Juan de Fuca, did not rupture in 1700. The findings have significant implications for Cascadia geodynamics and how earthquake and tsunami hazards in the region are quantified.
The Nature of Ice Intermittently Accreted at the Base of Ronne Ice Shelf, Antarctica, Assessed Using Phase‐Sensitive Radar
Authors: Vaňková Irena , Nicholls Keith W. , Corr Hugh F. J.
Published: September 2021

In‐situ phase‐sensitive radar measurements from the Ronne Ice Shelf (RIS) reveal evidence of intermittent basal accretion periods at several sites that are melting in the long‐term mean. Periods when ice is accreted at the ice‐shelf base coincide with a decrease in the amplitude of the basal return of up to 4 dB. To quantify basal accretion we constrain simultaneously the dielectric constant, electrical conductivity, and thickness of the accreted ice. We do this by exploring the sensitivity of the received basal echo strength and phase to different transmit frequencies using the radar data in combination with a simple model. Along the western RIS, we detect episodic basal accretion events leading to ice accumulation at a rate equivalent to 1–3 mm of meteoric ice per day. The inferred accumulation rates and electromagnetic properties of the accreted ice imply that these events are caused primarily by the deposition of frazil ice crystals. Our findings offer the possibility of monitoring and studying the evolution of boundaries between ice‐shelf basal melting and accretion regimes using remote observations, collected from the ice‐shelf surface.
Lagrangian Coherent Structures and Vortex Formation in High Spatiotemporal‐Resolution Satellite Winds of an Atmospheric Kármán Vortex Street
Authors: Günther Tobias , Horváth Ákos , Bresky Wayne , Daniels Jaime , Buehler Stefan Alexander
Published: September 2021

Recent advances in geostationary imaging have enabled the derivation of high spatiotemporal‐resolution cloud‐motion winds for the study of mesoscale unsteady flows. Due to the general absence of ground truth, the quality assessment of satellite winds is challenging. In the current limited practice, straightforward plausibility checks on the smoothness of the retrieved wind field or tests on aggregated trends such as the mean velocity components are applied for quality control. In this study, we demonstrate additional diagnostic tools based on feature extraction from the retrieved velocity field. Lagrangian Coherent Structures (LCS), such as vortices and transport barriers, guide and constrain the emergence of cloud patterns. Evaluating the alignment of the extracted LCS with the observed cloud patterns can potentially serve as a test of the retrieved wind field to adequately explain the time‐dependent dynamics. We discuss the suitability and expressiveness of direct, geometry‐based, texture‐based, and feature‐based flow visualization methods for the quality assessment of high spatiotemporal‐resolution winds through the real‐world example of an atmospheric Kármán vortex street and its laboratory archetype, the 2D cylinder flow.