bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sustained Shared Thinking fördert das innovative Verhalten vier- bis sechsjähriger Kinder
Authors: Szymanski Laura , Hildebrandt Frauke , Wronski Caroline
Published: January 2024

Zusammenfassung: Empirische Studien zeigen, dass in pädagogischen Interaktionen mit Erwachsenen die kindliche Imitation beobachteter Handlungen überwiegt. Diese Imitationstendenz kann durch einen instruktiven Interaktionsstil der erwachsenen Person verstärkt werden. Innovatives Verhalten wird dabei verringert. Die Generierung eigener, neuer Handlungsmöglichkeiten ist jedoch wichtiger Bestandteil von Exploration und aktivem Lernen. Das pädagogische Interaktionsformat des Sustained Shared Thinking (SST) hat sich als förderlich für die Hypothesengenerierung bei Kindern erwiesen. In der vorliegenden Studie wurden Einflüsse von SST-Sprachelementen auf das innovative Verhalten im Kindergartenalter untersucht. Dazu wurde 4- bis 6-jährigen Kindern ( N = 51) in drei unterschiedlichen Interaktionsbedingungen (instruktiv, SST und neutral) eine neuartiges Kartenlegespiel demonstriert, das sie anschließend selbst nachlegen konnten. Handlungen der Kinder wurden als innovativ (Abweichung von Muster und Anzahl der gelegten Karten) oder imitativ (Kopie von Muster und Anzahl der gelegten Karten) codiert. Kinder in der SST-Bedingung zeigten mehr innovative Handlungen als Kinder in der instruktiven Bedingung. Die Ergebnisse legen nahe, dass Anwendung von SST-Sprechhandlungen einen positiven Einfluss auf das innovative Verhalten von Kindern haben kann.
One Link to Link Them All
Authors: Arunkumar Mrudula , Rothermund Klaus , Giesen Carina G.
Published: January 2024

Abstract: A conditioned response to a stimulus can be transferred to an associated stimulus, as seen in sensory preconditioning. In this research paper, we aimed to explore this phenomenon using a stimulus–response contingency learning paradigm using voluntary actions as responses. We conducted two preregistered experiments that explored whether a learned response can be indirectly activated by a stimulus (S1) that was never directly paired with the response itself. Importantly, S1 was previously associated with another stimulus (S2) that was then directly and contingently paired with a response (S2-R contingency). In Experiment 1a, an indirect activation of acquired stimulus–response contingencies was present for audiovisual stimulus pairs wherein the stimulus association resembled a vocabulary learning setup. This result was replicated in Experiment 1b. Additionally, we found that the effect is moderated by having conscious awareness of the S1–S2 association and the S2-R contingency. By demonstrating indirect activation effects for voluntary actions, our findings show that principles of Pavlovian conditioning like sensory preconditioning also apply to contingency learning of stimulus–response relations for operant behavior.
The Effects of Mind-Wandering, Cognitive Load, and Task Engagement on Working Memory Performance in Remote Online Experiments
Authors: Cotton Kelly , Sandry Joshua , Ricker Timothy J.
Published: January 2024

Abstract: Recent changes in environments from in-person to remote present several issues for work, education, and research, particularly related to cognitive performance. Increased distraction in remote environments may lead to increases in mind-wandering and disengagement with tasks at hand, whether virtual meetings, online lectures, or psychological experiments. The present study investigated mind-wandering and multitasking effects during working memory tasks in remote and in-person environments. In two experiments, participants completed a working memory task with varied cognitive load during a secondary task. After each working memory trial, participants reported their mind-wandering during that trial. Some participants completed the procedures in-person, while others completed the procedures remotely. Overall, remote participants reported significantly more mind-wandering and poorer secondary task performance than in-person participants, but this pattern was not reflected in working memory accuracy. Both groups exhibited similar multitasking effects on performance. Additional analyses found that for remote participants, task engagement better predicted working memory performance than either cognitive load or mind-wandering rates but did not indicate a tradeoff in resources between tasks. Together, these results demonstrate the importance of considering multiple metrics when assessing performance and illustrate that making assumptions about the equivalence of remote and in-person work is a risky proposition.
Dynamics of the Barrier Layer Dipole in the Equatorial Indian Ocean
Authors: Li Junde , Han Di , Liao Guanghong , Zhang Tao , Ding Ruibin , Song Xunshu
Published: January 2024

The barrier layer (BL) significantly impacts the upper ocean circulation and thermodynamic structure by inhibiting the heat and momentum exchange between the mixed layer (ML) and the subsurface layer. There exist sea surface temperature and salinity dipole modes in the tropical Indian Ocean, however, a BL dipole mode has not yet been identified. Using the latest observations and ocean reanalysis, here we show a robust BL dipole mode in the central and eastern equatorial Indian Ocean, which is highly correlated with the Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) events. Composite analysis shows that the BL thickness anomalies peak in autumn and are much larger during positive IOD events than during negative IOD events. We show that a positive BL dipole phase is characterized by positive BL thickness anomalies in the central equatorial Indian Ocean and negative BL thickness anomalies in the eastern equatorial Indian Ocean, and vice versa for a negative BL dipole phase. During positive IOD events, negative surface salinity anomalies slightly affect the ML depth along the equatorial Indian Ocean. Positive subsurface temperature anomalies deepen the isothermal layer (IL) in the central equatorial Indian Ocean and strong negative subsurface temperature anomalies significantly lift the IL in the eastern equatorial Indian Ocean, controlling the BL thickness anomalies and forming a positive BL dipole pattern. This operates in an opposite direction during negative IOD events. Our study shows a close relationship between the BL dipole and the IOD and has far‐reaching implications for better understanding and predicting the IOD events.
A Substorm‐Dependent Negative Limit of Non‐Eclipse Surface Charging of a Chinese Geosynchronous Satellite
Authors: Fu Zhiyi , Su Zhenpeng , Miao Bin , Wu Zhiyong , Li Yiren , Liu Kai , Shan Xu , Wang Yuming
Published: January 2024

Surface charging is one of the most common causes of spacecraft anomalies. When and to what potential the spacecraft is charged are two important questions in space weather. Here, for a Chinese geosynchronous navigation satellite, we infer the extreme negative surface charging potentials from the ion differential fluxes measured by a low‐energy ion spectrometer. Without the solar eclipse effect away from the midnight, the charging potentials are found to have a negative limit which is determined by the maximum SuperMAG electrojet index in the preceding 2 hr. Such an empirical relation can be reasonably explained by the dependence of 1–50 keV electron fluxes on substorm strength. Similar relations may also exist for other inner magnetospheric spacecraft in the non‐eclipse region, which would be useful for spacecraft engineering and space weather alerts.
Observation of transition from superfluorescence to polariton condensation in CsPbBr3 quantum dots film
Authors: Mao Danqun , Chen Linqi , Sun Zheng , Zhang Min , Shi Zhe-Yu , Hu Yongsheng , Zhang Long , Wu Jian , Dong Hongxing , Xie Wei , Xu Hongxing
Published: January 2024

The superfluorescence effect has received extensive attention due to the many-body physics of quantum correlation in dipole gas and the optical applications of ultrafast bright radiation field based on the cooperative quantum state. Here, we demonstrate not only to observe the superfluorescence effect but also to control the cooperative state of the excitons ensemble by externally applying a regulatory dimension of coupling light fields. A new quasi-particle called cooperative exciton-polariton is revealed in a light-matter hybrid structure of a perovskite quantum dot thin film spin-coated on a Distributed Bragg Reflector. Above the nonlinear threshold, polaritonic condensation occurs at a nonzero momentum state on the lower polariton branch owning to the vital role of the synchronized excitons. The phase transition from superfluorescence to polariton condensation exhibits typical signatures of a decrease of the linewidth, an increase of the macroscopic coherence as well as an accelerated radiation decay rate. These findings are promising for opening new potential applications for super-brightness and unconventional coherent light sources and could enable the exploitation of cooperative effects for quantum optics.
Ac-DEVD-CHO (caspase-3/DEVDase inhibitor) suppresses self-incompatibility–induced programmed cell death in the pollen tubes of petunia (Petunia hybrida E. Vilm.)
Authors: Zakharova Ekaterina Vladimirovna , Demyanchuk Ilya Sergeevich , Sobolev Denis Sergeevich , Golivanov Yaroslav Yurievich , Baranova Ekaterina Nikolaevna , Khaliluev Marat Rushanovich
Published: January 2024

Programmed cell death (PCD) is relevant to many aspects in the growth and development of a plant organism. In their reproduction, many flowering plant species possess self-incompatibility (SI), that is an intraspecific reproductive barrier, which is a genetic mechanism ensuring the avoidance of inbreeding depression by preventing self-pollination. This phenomenon enhances intraspecific variation; however, SI is rather a hindrance for some fruit plant species (such as plum, cherry, and peer trees) rather than an advantage in farming. PCD is a factor of the S-RNase–based SI in Petunia hybrida E. Vilm. The growth of self-incompatible pollen tubes (PTs) is arrested with an increase in the activity of caspase-like proteases during the first hours after pollination so that all traits of PCD—plasma membrane integrity damage, DNA degradation/disintegration, and damage of PT structural organization (absence of vacuoles, turgor disturbance, and separation of cell plasma membrane from the cell wall)—are observable by the moment of PT growth arrest. We succeeded in discovering an additional cytological PCD marker, namely, the formation of ricinosomes in self-incompatible PTs at early stages of PCD. SI is removable by treating petunia stigmas with Acetyl-Asp-Glu-Val-Asp-aldehyde (Ac-DEVD-CHO), an inhibitor of caspase-3/DEVDase, 2 h before a self-incompatible pollination. In this process, the level of caspase-3-like protease activity was low, DNA degradation was absent, PTs grew to the ovary, fertilization was successful, and full-fledged seeds were formed.
Atomically synergistic Zn-Cr catalyst for iso-stoichiometric co-conversion of ethane and CO2 to ethylene and CO
Authors: Yang Ji , Wang Lu , Wan Jiawei , El Gabaly Farid , Fernandes Cauduro Andre L. , Mills Bernice E. , Chen Jeng-Lung , Hsu Liang-Ching , Lee Daewon , Zhao Xiao , Zheng Haimei , Salmeron Miquel , Wang Caiqi , Dong Zhun , Lin Hongfei , Somorjai Gabor A. , Rosner Fabian , Breunig Hanna , Prendergast David , Jiang De-en , Singh Seema , Su Ji
Published: January 2024

Developing atomically synergistic bifunctional catalysts relies on the creation of colocalized active atoms to facilitate distinct elementary steps in catalytic cycles. Herein, we show that the atomically-synergistic binuclear-site catalyst (ABC) consisting of $${{{{{\rm{Zn}}}}}}^{\delta+}$$

Zn

δ
+

-O-Cr6+ on zeolite SSZ-13 displays unique catalytic properties for iso-stoichiometric co-conversion of ethane and CO2. Ethylene selectivity and utilization of converted CO2 can reach 100 % and 99.0% under 500  °C at ethane conversion of 9.6%, respectively. In-situ/ex-situ spectroscopic studies and DFT calculations reveal atomic synergies between acidic Zn and redox Cr sites. $${{{{{\rm{Zn}}}}}}^{\delta+}$$

Zn

δ
+

($$0 \, < \, \delta \, < \, 2$$
0

<

δ

<

2
) sites facilitate β-C-H bond cleavage in ethane and the formation of Zn-Hδ- hydride, thereby the enhanced basicity promotes CO2 adsorption/activation and prevents ethane C-C bond scission. The redox Cr site accelerates CO2 dissociation by replenishing lattice oxygen and facilitates H2O formation/desorption. This study presents the advantages of the ABC concept, paving the way for the rational design of novel advanced catalysts.
Single-cell analysis of psoriasis resolution demonstrates an inflammatory fibroblast state targeted by IL-23 blockade
Authors: Francis Luc , McCluskey Daniel , Ganier Clarisse , Jiang Treasa , Du-Harpur Xinyi , Gabriel Jeyrroy , Dhami Pawan , Kamra Yogesh , Visvanathan Sudha , Barker Jonathan N. , Smith Catherine H. , Capon Francesca , Mahil Satveer K.
Published: January 2024

Biologic therapies targeting the IL-23/IL-17 axis have transformed the treatment of psoriasis. However, the early mechanisms of action of these drugs remain poorly understood. Here, we perform longitudinal single-cell RNA-sequencing in affected individuals receiving IL-23 inhibitor therapy. By profiling skin at baseline, day 3 and day 14 of treatment, we demonstrate that IL-23 blockade causes marked gene expression shifts, with fibroblast and myeloid populations displaying the most extensive changes at day 3. We also identify a transient WNT5A+/IL24+ fibroblast state, which is only detectable in lesional skin. In-silico and in-vitro studies indicate that signals stemming from these WNT5A+/IL24+ fibroblasts upregulate multiple inflammatory genes in keratinocytes. Importantly, the abundance of WNT5A+/IL24+ fibroblasts is significantly reduced after treatment. This observation is validated in-silico, by deconvolution of multiple transcriptomic datasets, and experimentally, by RNA in-situ hybridization. These findings demonstrate that the evolution of inflammatory fibroblast states is a key feature of resolving psoriasis skin.
Rescuing SERCA2 pump deficiency improves bone mechano-responsiveness in type 2 diabetes by shaping osteocyte calcium dynamics
Authors: Shao Xi , Tian Yulan , Liu Juan , Yan Zedong , Ding Yuanjun , Hao Xiaoxia , Wang Dan , Shen Liangliang , Luo Erping , Guo X. Edward , Luo Peng , Luo Wenjing , Cai Jing , Jing Da
Published: January 2024

Type 2 diabetes (T2D)-related fragility fractures represent an increasingly tough medical challenge, and the current treatment options are limited. Mechanical loading is essential for maintaining bone integrity, although bone mechano-responsiveness in T2D remains poorly characterized. Herein, we report that exogenous cyclic loading-induced improvements in bone architecture and strength are compromised in both genetically spontaneous and experimentally-induced T2D mice. T2D-induced reduction in bone mechano-responsiveness is directly associated with the weakened Ca2+ oscillatory dynamics of osteocytes, although not those of osteoblasts, which is dependent on PPARα-mediated specific reduction in osteocytic SERCA2 pump expression. Treatment with the SERCA2 agonist istaroxime was demonstrated to improve T2D bone mechano-responsiveness by rescuing osteocyte Ca2+ dynamics and the associated regulation of osteoblasts and osteoclasts. Moreover, T2D-induced deterioration of bone mechano-responsiveness is blunted in mice with osteocytic SERCA2 overexpression. Collectively, our study provides mechanistic insights into T2D-mediated deterioration of bone mechano-responsiveness and identifies a promising countermeasure against T2D-associated fragility fractures.
Anisotropic carrier dynamics and laser-fabricated luminescent patterns on oriented single-crystal perovskite wafers
Authors: Ge Chao , Li Yachao , Song Haiying , Xie Qiyuan , Zhang Leilei , Ma Xiaoran , Liu Junfeng , Guo Xiangjing , Yan Yinzhou , Liu Danmin , Zhang Wenkai , Liu Shibing , Liu Yang
Published: January 2024

Perovskite materials and their applications in optoelectronics have attracted intensive attentions in recent years. However, in-depth understanding about their anisotropic behavior in ultrafast carrier dynamics is still lacking. Here we explore the ultrafast dynamical evolution of photo-excited carriers and photoluminescence based on differently-oriented MAPbBr3 wafers. The distinct in-plane polarization of carrier relaxation dynamics of the (100), (110) and (111) wafers and their out-of-plane anisotropy in a picosecond time scale were found by femtosecond time- and polarization-resolved transient transmission measurements, indicating the relaxation process dominated by optical/acoustic phonon interaction is related to photoinduced transient structure rearrangements. Femtosecond laser two-photon fabricated patterns exhibit three orders of magnitude enhancement of emission due to the formation of tentacle-like microstructures. Such a ultrafast dynamic study carried on differently-oriented crystal wafers is believed to provide a deep insight about the photophysical process of perovskites and to be helpful for developing polarization-sensitive and ultrafast-response optoelectronic devices.
Self-compliant ionic skin by leveraging hierarchical hydrogen bond association
Authors: Ye Huating , Wu Baohu , Sun Shengtong , Wu Peiyi
Published: January 2024

Robust interfacial compliance is essential for long-term physiological monitoring via skin-mountable ionic materials. Unfortunately, existing epidermal ionic skins are not compliant and durable enough to accommodate the time-varying deformations of convoluted skin surface, due to an imbalance in viscosity and elasticity. Here we introduce a self-compliant ionic skin that consistently works at the critical gel point state with almost equal viscosity and elasticity over a super-wide frequency range. The material is designed by leveraging hierarchical hydrogen bond association, allowing for the continuous release of polymer strands to create topological entanglements as complementary crosslinks. By embodying properties of rapid stress relaxation, softness, ionic conductivity, self-healability, flaw-insensitivity, self-adhesion, and water-resistance, this ionic skin fosters excellent interfacial compliance with cyclically deforming substrates, and facilitates the acquisition of high-fidelity electrophysiological signals with alleviated motion artifacts. The presented strategy is generalizable and could expand the applicability of epidermal ionic skins to more complex service conditions.
Humoral profiles of toddlers and young children following SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccination
Authors: Nziza Nadège , Deng Yixiang , Wood Lianna , Dhanoa Navneet , Dulit-Greenberg Naomi , Chen Tina , Kane Abigail S. , Swank Zoe , Davis Jameson P. , Demokritou Melina , Chitnis Anagha P. , Fasano Alessio , Edlow Andrea G. , Jain Nitya , Horwitz Bruce H. , McNamara Ryan P. , Walt David R. , Lauffenburger Douglas A. , Julg Boris , Shreffler Wayne G. , Alter Galit , Yonker Lael M.
Published: January 2024

Although young children generally experience mild symptoms following infection with SARS-CoV-2, severe acute and long-term complications can occur. SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccines elicit robust immunoglobulin profiles in children ages 5 years and older, and in adults, corresponding with substantial protection against hospitalizations and severe disease. Whether similar immune responses and humoral protection can be observed in vaccinated infants and young children, who have a developing and vulnerable immune system, remains poorly understood. To study the impact of mRNA vaccination on the humoral immunity of infant, we use a system serology approach to comprehensively profile antibody responses in a cohort of children ages 6 months to 5 years who were vaccinated with the mRNA-1273 COVID-19 vaccine (25 μg). Responses are compared with vaccinated adults (100 μg), in addition to naturally infected toddlers and young children. Despite their lower vaccine dose, vaccinated toddlers elicit a functional antibody response as strong as adults, with higher antibody-dependent phagocytosis compared to adults, without report of side effects. Moreover, mRNA vaccination is associated with a higher IgG3-dependent humoral profile against SARS-CoV-2 compared to natural infection, supporting that mRNA vaccination is effective at eliciting a robust antibody response in toddlers and young children.
Well-defined in-textile photolithography towards permeable textile electronics
Authors: Wang Pengwei , Ma Xiaohao , Lin Zhiqiang , Chen Fan , Chen Zijian , Hu Hong , Xu Hailong , Zhang Xinyi , Shi Yuqing , Huang Qiyao , Lin Yuanjing , Zheng Zijian
Published: January 2024

Textile-based wearable electronics have attracted intensive research interest due to their excellent flexibility and breathability inherent in the unique three-dimensional porous structures. However, one of the challenges lies in achieving highly conductive patterns with high precision and robustness without sacrificing the wearing comfort. Herein, we developed a universal and robust in-textile photolithography strategy for precise and uniform metal patterning on porous textile architectures. The as-fabricated metal patterns realized a high precision of sub-100 µm with desirable mechanical stability, washability, and permeability. Moreover, such controllable coating permeated inside the textile scaffold contributes to the significant performance enhancement of miniaturized devices and electronics integration through both sides of the textiles. As a proof-of-concept, a fully integrated in-textiles system for multiplexed sweat sensing was demonstrated. The proposed method opens up new possibilities for constructing multifunctional textile-based flexible electronics with reliable performance and wearing comfort.
Metabolic changes in response to varying whole-grain wheat and rye intake
Authors: Koistinen Ville M. , Haldar Sumanto , Tuomainen Marjo , Lehtonen Marko , Klåvus Anton , Draper John , Lloyd Amanda , Beckmann Manfred , Bal Wendy , Ross Alastair B. , Brandt Kirsten , Fawcett Lee , Seal Chris , Hanhineva Kati
Published: January 2024

Epidemiological studies have shown associations between whole-grain intake and lowered disease risk. A sufficient level of whole-grain intake to reach the health benefits has not been established, and there is limited knowledge about the impact of whole-grain intake on metabolite levels. In this clinical intervention study, we aimed to identify plasma and urine metabolites associated with two different intake levels of whole-grain wheat and rye and to correlate them with clinical plasma biomarkers. Healthy volunteers (N = 68) were divided into two groups receiving either whole-grain wheat or whole-grain rye in two four-week interventions with 48 and 96 g/d of whole grains consumed. The metabolomics of the plasma samples was performed with UPLC–QTOF-MS. Plasma alkylresorcinols were quantified with GC-MS and plasma and urinary mammalian lignans with HPLC-ECD. The high-dose intervention impacted the metabolite profile, including microbial metabolites, more in the rye-enriched diet compared with wheat. Among the increased metabolites were alkylresorcinol glucuronides, sinapyl alcohol, and pipecolic acid betaine, while the decreased metabolites included acylcarnitines and ether lipids. Plasma alkylresorcinols, urinary enterolactone, and total mammalian lignans reflected the study diets in a dose-dependent manner. Several key metabolites linked with whole-grain consumption and gut microbial metabolism increased in a linear manner between the two interventions. The results reveal that an increase in whole-grain intake, particularly rye, is strongly reflected in the metabolite profile, is correlated with clinical variables, and suggests that a diet rich in whole grains promotes the growth and/or metabolism of microbes producing potentially beneficial microbial metabolites.
Beneficial effect of temporary methotrexate interruption on B and T cell responses upon SARS-CoV-2 vaccination in patients with rheumatoid arthritis or psoriatic arthritis
Authors: Martínez-Fleta Pedro , Vicente-Rabaneda Esther F. , Triguero-Martínez Ana , Roy-Vallejo Emilia , Uriarte-Ecenarro Miren , Gutiérrez-Rodríguez Francisco , Quiroga-Colina Patricia , Romero-Robles Ana , Montes Nuria , García-Castañeda Noelia , Mejía-Abril Gina P. , García-Vadillo Jesús A. , Llorente-Cubas Irene , Villagrasa José R. , Serra López-Matencio José M. , Ancochea Julio , Urzainqui Ana , Esparcia-Pinedo Laura , Alfranca Arantzazu , de la Fuente Hortensia , García-Vicuña Rosario , Sánchez-Madrid Francisco , González-Álvaro Isidoro , Castañeda Santos
Published: January 2024

B and T cell responses were evaluated in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) or psoriatic arthritis (PsA) after 1 or 2 weeks of methotrexate (MTX) withdrawal following each COVID-19 vaccine dose and compared with those who maintained MTX. Adult RA and PsA patients treated with MTX were recruited and randomly assigned to 3 groups: MTX-maintenance (n = 72), MTX-withdrawal for 1 week (n = 71) or MTX-withdrawal for 2 weeks (n = 73). Specific antibodies to several SARS-CoV-2 antigens and interferon (IFN)-γ and interleukin (IL)-21 responses were assessed. MTX withdrawal in patients without previous COVID-19 was associated with higher levels of anti-RBD IgG and neutralising antibodies, especially in the 2-week withdrawal group and with higher IFN-γ secretion upon stimulation with pools of SARS-CoV-2 S peptides. No increment of RA/PsA relapses was detected across groups. Our data indicate that two-week MTX interruption following COVID-19 vaccination in patients with RA or PsA improves humoral and cellular immune responses.
Temperature-humidity evolution and radon exhalation mechanism of red clay-bentonite covering layer in uranium mill tailings pond
Authors: Xie Chao , Lu Wenjun , Wang Hong , Wang Xiangshuai , Yu Tao
Published: January 2024

To ensure the safety and stability of the beach surface of the decommissioned uranium mill tailings pond, this paper uses red clay-bentonite and red clay (1:1) to carry out covering layer radon reduction simulation experiments to study the temperature, humidity, and radon reduction effect of the covering layer under natural conditions. The results show that the radon exhalation rate of red clay-bentonite cover layer is only 0.32 times that of red clay, which has a better radon reduction effect. The red clay-bentonite cover layer has better water retention and comparable heat preservation effect than red clay cover layer. The red clay-bentonite and red clay temperature curves follow the same evolution trend and were close together in the same outdoor conditions, and the humidity curves showed a difference of 1% to 3%. Soil temperature is the dominant factor affecting the variation of radon exhalation of red clay-bentonite and red clay covering layer with unsaturated water content.
Machine learning to identify chronic cough from administrative claims data
Authors: Bali Vishal , Turzhitsky Vladimir , Schelfhout Jonathan , Paudel Misti , Hulbert Erin , Peterson-Brandt Jesse , Hertzberg Jeffrey , Kelly Neal R. , Patel Raja H.
Published: January 2024

Accurate identification of patient populations is an essential component of clinical research, especially for medical conditions such as chronic cough that are inconsistently defined and diagnosed. We aimed to develop and compare machine learning models to identify chronic cough from medical and pharmacy claims data. In this retrospective observational study, we compared 3 machine learning algorithms based on XG Boost, logistic regression, and neural network approaches using a large claims and electronic health record database. Of the 327,423 patients who met the study criteria, 4,818 had chronic cough based on linked claims–electronic health record data. The XG Boost model showed the best performance, achieving a Receiver-Operator Characteristic Area Under the Curve (ROC-AUC) of 0.916. We selected a cutoff that favors a high positive predictive value (PPV) to minimize false positives, resulting in a sensitivity, specificity, PPV, and negative predictive value of 18.0%, 99.6%, 38.7%, and 98.8%, respectively on the held-out testing set (n = 82,262). Logistic regression and neural network models achieved slightly lower ROC-AUCs of 0.907 and 0.838, respectively. The XG Boost and logistic regression models maintained their robust performance in subgroups of individuals with higher rates of chronic cough. Machine learning algorithms are one way of identifying conditions that are not coded in medical records, and can help identify individuals with chronic cough from claims data with a high degree of classification value.
Development of a quantitative NS1 antigen enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for Zika virus detection using a novel virus-specific mAb
Authors: Morales Stefanny Viloche , Coelho Gabriela Mattoso , Ricciardi-Jorge Taíssa , Dorl Gisiane Gruber , Zanluca Camila , Duarte dos Santos Claudia Nunes
Published: January 2024

Viruses from the Flaviviridae family, such as Dengue virus (DENV), Yellow fever virus (YFV), and Zika virus (ZIKV) are notorious global public health problems. ZIKV emergence in Polynesia and the Americas from 2013 to 2016 raised concerns as new distinguishing features set it apart from previous outbreaks, including its association with neurological complications and heightened disease severity. Virus detection is impaired as cross-reactivity to other closely related orthoflaviviruses is common among commercially available diagnostic kits. While non-structural protein 1 (NS1) has been used as an early marker of DENV and West Nile virus (WNV) infection, little is known about NS1 expression during ZIKV infection. In the present work, we developed a NS1 capture ELISA using a novel ZIKV-specific monoclonal antibody to study NS1 expression dynamics in vitro in mosquito and human cell lines. While detectable in culture supernatants, higher concentrations of NS1 were predominantly cell-associated. To our knowledge, this is the first report of NS1 detection in human cells despite viral clearance over time. Tests with human samples need to be conducted to validate the applicability of NS1 detection for diagnosis, but overall, the tools developed in this work are promising for specific detection of acute ZIKV infection.
Degradation of 2,4-dinitrotoluene in aqueous solution by dielectric barrier discharge plasma combined with Fe–RGO–BiVO4 nanocomposite
Authors: Vaziri Yaser , Asgari Ghorban , Ghorbani-Shahna Farshid , Madrakian Tayyebeh , Shokoohi Reza , Seid-Mohammadi Abdolmotaleb
Published: January 2024

2,4-Dinitrotoluene (2,4-DNT) as a priority and hazardous pollutant, is widely used in industrial and military activities. In this study the synergistic effect of Fe–RGO–BiVO4 nanocomposite in a non-thermal dielectric barrier discharge plasma reactor (NTP-DBD) for degrading 2,4-DNT was evaluated. Preparation of the Fe–RGO–BiVO4 nanocomposite was done by a stepwise chemical method depositing Fe and reduced graphene oxide (RGO) on BiVO4. Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD), UV–vis diffuse reflectance spectra (DRS), and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy mapping (EDS-mapping) validated the satisfactory synthesis of Fe–RGO–BiVO4. To find the optimal conditions and to determine the interaction of model parameters, a central composite design (RSM-CCD) had been employed. 2,4 DNT can be completely degraded at: initial 2,4-DNT concentration of 40 mg L−1, Fe–RGO–BiVO4 dosage of 0.75 g L−1, applied voltage of 21kV, reaction time of 30 min and pH equal to 7, while the single plasma process reached a degradation efficiency of 67%. The removal efficiency of chemical oxygen demand (COD) and total organic carbon (TOC) were 90.62% and 88.02% at 30 min contact time, respectively. Results also indicated that average oxidation state (AOS) and carbon oxidation state (COS) were enhanced in the catalytic NTP-DBD process, which demonstrate the effectiveness of proposed process for facilitating biodegradability of 2,4-DNT.
Glial cells react to closed head injury in a distinct and spatiotemporally orchestrated manner
Authors: Nespoli Ester , Hakani Marsela , Hein Tabea Melissa , May Stephanie Nadine , Danzer Karin , Wirth Thomas , Baumann Bernd , Dimou Leda
Published: January 2024

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a leading cause of mortality and disability worldwide. Acute neuroinflammation is a prominent reaction after TBI and is mostly initiated by brain-resident glial cells such as microglia, NG2-glia and astrocytes. The magnitude of this reaction paves the way for long-lasting consequences such as chronic neurological pathologies, for which therapeutic options remain limited. The neuroinflammatory response to TBI is mostly studied with craniotomy-based animal models that are very robust but also rather artificial. Here, we aimed to analyze the reaction of glial cells in a highly translational but variable closed head injury (CHI) model and were able to correlate the severity of the trauma to the degree of glial response. Furthermore, we could show that the different glial cell types react in a temporally and spatially orchestrated manner in terms of morphological changes, proliferation, and cell numbers in the first 15 days after the lesion. Interestingly, NG2-glia, the only proliferating cells in the healthy brain parenchyma, divided at a rate that was correlated with the size of the injury. Our findings describe the previously uncharacterized posttraumatic response of the major brain glial cell types in CHI in order to gain a detailed understanding of the course of neuroinflammatory events; such knowledge may open novel avenues for future therapeutic approaches in TBI.
The influence of fixation and cryopreservation of cerebrospinal fluid on antigen expression and cell percentages by flow cytometric analysis
Authors: Singh Gabriela , van Laarhoven Arjan , Adams Rozanne , Reid Timothy Dawson , Combrinck Jill , van Dorp Suzanne , Riou Catherine , Thango Nqobile , Enslin Johannes , Kruger Stefan , Figaji Anthony Aaron , Rohlwink Ursula Karin
Published: January 2024

The pauci-cellular nature of cerebrospinal (CSF), particularly ventricular CSF, and the rapid cell death following sampling, incumbers the use of flow cytometric analysis of these samples in the investigation of central nervous system (CNS) pathologies. Developing a method that allows long-term storage and batched analysis of CSF samples without compromising cell integrity is highly desirable in clinical research, given that CSF is often sampled after hours creating logistical difficulties for fresh processing. We examined percentages and relative proportion of peripheral and brain-derived immune cells in cryopreserved and transfix-treated CSF, compared to freshly processed CSF. Cell proportions were more comparable between Fresh and Cryopreserved CSF (mean of differences = 3.19), than between fresh and transfix-treated CSF (mean of differences = 14.82). No significant differences in cell percentages were observed in fresh versus cryopreserved CSF; however significantly lower cell percentages were observed in transfix-treated CSF compared to Fresh CSF [(CD11b++ (p = 0.01), CD4+ (p = 0.001), CD8+ (p = 0.007), NK cells (p = 0.04), as well as CD69+ activation marker (p = 0.001)]. Furthermore, loss of marker expression of various lymphocyte sub-populations were observed in transfix-treated CSF. Cryopreservation is a feasible option for long-term storage of ventricular CSF and allows accurate immunophenotyping of peripheral and brain-derived cell populations by flow cytometry.
Radiometric characteristics of some metallic ores and nonmetallic deposits: an example, Wadi Al-Allaqi, South Eastern Desert, Egypt
Authors: Gobashy Mohamed Mostafa , El-Sadek Mohamed A. , Mekkawi Mahmoud M. , Araffa Sultan Awad Sultan , Ezz Eldin Mohamed M. , Khalil Mohamed Hassan
Published: January 2024

Hydrothermal alteration processes are connected to many mineral formations, particularly auriferous deposits. In this study, airborne gamma-ray spectrometry (GRS) data and the analysis of radioactive materials (eU, eTh, and K) are applied to search for regions with hydrothermal alteration activity. An example is presented from Wadi Al-Allaqi, South Eastern Desert, Egypt. GRS was used to analyse various radiometric data to address potential mineral deposit areas, to map regions potentially showing metallic ore mineralisation, and to point out new geological mineral resources. The Kd (potassium deviation), “F” parameter and Th-normalisation of the K and eU anomalies were calculated, and locating new exploratory targets in the study area that exhibit high F-parameter, Kd, and K/eTh values was recommended. Additionally, the research region has a few isolated enriched spots of (K). Therefore, GRS data was used to characterise and estimate potential metallic ores, nonmetallic deposits, and gold ore zones associated with the alteration zones. Results show that most of the known mineral deposits and gold occurrences in the area, according to the metallogenic map of Egypt, are located in zones with a ratio value of (0.25–0.30) (K%/(U or Th ppm)) maps which may suggest a moderate degree of alteration. Also, most mineral deposits and gold occurrences are found in intermediate altered zones, or K-enriched sites, with a Kd% of (0.2. The work represents an attempt to map hydrothermal alteration zones associated with mineral deposits in the Wadi Al-Allaqi area. Generally, natural radiation characteristics and attributes suggest criteria that can be used globally for regional mineral exploration.
Knowledge and practice towards intravenous fluid therapy in children among nurses in the pediatrics emergency department of selected public hospitals
Authors: Tolera Garoma Gemechu , Kasaye Birhanu Melaku , Abicho Temesgen Beyene
Published: January 2024

Morbidity and mortality in hospitalized patients can be increased due to errors that are caused by inadequate knowledge and unsatisfactory practice of intravenous (IV) fluid therapy among healthcare workers. The knowledge and practice of nurses are very critical to IV fluid therapy because they are the cornerstone of a subject. This study assessed nurse's knowledge and practice of IV fluid therapy. A cross-sectional study design was employed at four selected public hospitals in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Data were collected from 112 nurses using a structured questionnaire for knowledge and using an observational checklist for practice. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 26 computer programs. Most respondents (67%) were males; the mean age of respondents was 31.2 ± 4.3. Among participated nurses, 42% (95% CI 32.8, 51.2) and 56.3% (95% CI 47.1, 65.6) had inadequate knowledge and satisfactory practice regarding IV fluid therapy in children, respectively. A significant association was observed between nurses' intravenous fluid therapy knowledge and in-service training that nurses who had training on fluid therapy in children had 4 times adequate knowledge than those who had no training (P = 0.01), an educational qualification that master degree holders had 4.8 times adequate knowledge than first-degree holders (P = 0.04) and training institution that nurse who had taken training in governmental teaching institution had 4 times adequate knowledge than who had taken training in private teaching institution (P = 0.011). No statistically significant association was found between practice level and independent variables regarding IV fluid therapy. Nurses’ knowledge of IV fluid therapy was inadequate and practice was relatively satisfactory. Continuous education and training of nurses on IV fluid therapy should be conducted regularly to improve their knowledge and practice. Further research should be employed involving other hospitals and focusing on risk factors for knowledge and practice inadequacy that are not discussed in this study.
Dopaminergic neuron loss in mice due to increased levels of wild-type human α-Synuclein only takes place under conditions of accelerated aging
Authors: Perez-Villalba Ana , Sirerol-Piquer María Salomé , Soriano-Cantón Raúl , Folgado Virginia , Pérez-Cañamás Azucena , Kirstein Martina , Fariñas Isabel , Pérez-Sánchez Francisco
Published: January 2024

Understanding the intricate pathogenic mechanisms behind Parkinson's disease (PD) and its multifactorial nature presents a significant challenge in disease modeling. To address this, we explore genetic models that better capture the disease's complexity. Given that aging is the primary risk factor for PD, this study investigates the impact of aging in conjunction with overexpression of wild-type human α-synuclein (α-Syn) in the dopaminergic system. This is achieved by introducing a novel transgenic mouse strain overexpressing α-Syn under the TH-promoter within the senescence-accelerated SAMP8 (P8) genetic background. Behavioral assessments, conducted at both 10 and 16 months of age, unveil motor impairments exclusive to P8 α-SynTg mice, a phenomenon conspicuously absent in α-SynTg mice. These findings suggest a synergistic interplay between heightened α-Syn levels and the aging process, resulting in motor deficits. These motor disturbances correlate with reduced dopamine (DA) levels, increased DA turnover, synaptic terminal loss, and notably, the depletion of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra and noradrenergic neurons in the locus coeruleus. Furthermore, P8 α-SynTg mice exhibit alterations in gut transit time, mirroring early PD symptoms. In summary, P8 α-SynTg mice effectively replicate parkinsonian phenotypes by combining α-Syn transgene expression with accelerated aging. This model offers valuable insights into the understanding of PD and serves as a valuable platform for further research.
Multi-omics analysis reveals NNMT as a master metabolic regulator of metastasis in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Huang Qi , Chen Haiming , Yin Dandan , Wang Jie , Wang Shaodong , Yang Feng , Li Jiawei , Mu Teng , Li Jilun , Zhao Jia , Yin Rong , Li Wei , Qiu Mantang , Zhang Erbao , Li Xiangnan
Published: January 2024

Metabolic reprogramming has been observed in cancer metastasis, whereas metabolic changes required for malignant cells during lymph node metastasis of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) are still poorly understood. Here, we performed single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) of paired ESCC tumor tissues and lymph nodes to uncover the reprogramming of tumor microenvironment (TME) and metabolic pathways. By integrating analyses of scRNA-seq data with metabolomics of ESCC tumor tissues and plasma samples, we found nicotinate and nicotinamide metabolism pathway was dysregulated in ESCC patients with lymph node metastasis (LN+), exhibiting as significantly increased 1-methylnicotinamide (MNA) in both tumors and plasma. Further data indicated high expression of N-methyltransferase (NNMT), which converts active methyl groups from the universal methyl donor, S-adenosylmethionine (SAM), to stable MNA, contributed to the increased MNA in LN+ ESCC. NNMT promotes epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) and metastasis of ESCC in vitro and in vivo by inhibiting E-cadherin expression. Mechanically, high NNMT expression consumed too much active methyl group and decreased H3K4me3 modification at E-cadherin promoter and inhibited m6A modification of E-cadherin mRNA, therefore inhibiting E-cadherin expression at both transcriptional and post-transcriptional level. Finally, a detection method of lymph node metastasis was build based on the dysregulated metabolites, which showed good performance among ESCC patients. For lymph node metastasis of ESCC, this work supports NNMT is a master regulator of the cross-talk between cellular metabolism and epigenetic modifications, which may be a therapeutic target.
New regulatory thinking is needed for AI-based personalised drug and cell therapies in precision oncology
Authors: Derraz Bouchra , Breda Gabriele , Kaempf Christoph , Baenke Franziska , Cotte Fabienne , Reiche Kristin , Köhl Ulrike , Kather Jakob Nikolas , Eskenazy Deborah , Gilbert Stephen
Published: January 2024

Until recently the application of artificial intelligence (AI) in precision oncology was confined to activities in drug development and had limited impact on the personalisation of therapy. Now, a number of approaches have been proposed for the personalisation of drug and cell therapies with AI applied to therapy design, planning and delivery at the patient’s bedside. Some drug and cell-based therapies are already tuneable to the individual to optimise efficacy, to reduce toxicity, to adapt the dosing regime, to design combination therapy approaches and, preclinically, even to personalise the receptor design of cell therapies. Developments in AI-based healthcare are accelerating through the adoption of foundation models, and generalist medical AI models have been proposed. The application of these approaches in therapy design is already being explored and realistic short-term advances include the application to the personalised design and delivery of drugs and cell therapies. With this pace of development, the limiting step to adoption will likely be the capacity and appropriateness of regulatory frameworks. This article explores emerging concepts and new ideas for the regulation of AI-enabled personalised cancer therapies in the context of existing and in development governance frameworks.
Microbial phosphorus recycling in soil by intra- and extracellular mechanisms
Authors: Chen Jie , Xu Han , Seven Jasmin , Zilla Thomas , Dippold Michaela A , Kuzyakov Yakov
Published: January 2024

Rising global stoichiometric imbalance between increasing nitrogen (N) availability and depleting phosphorus (P) resources increases the importance of soil microbial P recycling. The contribution of extra- versus intracellular P (re-)cycling depending on ecosystem nutrient status is vastly unclear, making soil microorganisms a blind spot in our understanding of ecosystem responses to increasing P deficiency. We quantified P incorporation into microbial DNA and phospholipids by 33P labeling under contrasting conditions: low/high P soil × low/high carbon (C)NP application. By combining 33P and 14C labeling with tracing of microbial community biomarkers and functional genes, we disengaged the role of DNA and phospholipids in soil P cycling. Microorganisms in low P soil preferentially allocated P to phospholipids with an acceleration of phospholipids metabolism driven by C addition, which was strongly related to high abundances of microbial community members (e.g. some G-) with a fast phospholipids turnover. In high P soil, however, more P was allocated to DNA with a microbial functional shift towards DNA synthesis to support a replicative growth when sufficient C was supplied, which was coupled with a strong enrichment of fungal copiotrophs and microbial genes coding DNA primase. Consequently, adaptation to low P availability accelerated microbial intracellular P recycling through reutilization of the P stored in phospholipids. However, microorganisms under high P availability commonly adopted extracellular P recycling with release and reuse of DNA P by microbial death-growth dynamics. These results advance our understanding on microbial adaptation to P deficiency in soil by regulating component-specific P pathways and reflect the specific functions of phospholipids and DNA for P recycling.