bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lattice Distortions and Multiple Valence Band Convergence Contributing to High Thermoelectric Performance in MnTe
Authors: Xiong Wenjie , Wang Zhichao , Zhang Xuemei , Wang Chong , Yin Liangcao , Gong Yaru , Zhang Qingtang , Li Shuang , Liu Qingfeng , Wang Peng , Zhang Yongsheng , Tang Guodong
Published: November 2022

Here, a new route is proposed for the minimization of lattice thermal conductivity in MnTe through considerable increasing phonon scattering by introducing dense lattice distortions. Dense lattice distortions can be induced by Cu and Ag dopants possessing large differences in atom radius with host elements, which causes strong phonon scattering and results in extremely low lattice thermal conductivity. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations reveal that Cu and Ag codoping enables multiple valence band convergence and produces a high density of state values in the electronic structure of MnTe, contributing to the large Seebeck coefficient. Cu and Ag codoping not only optimizes the Seebeck coefficient but also substantially increases the carrier concentration and electrical conductivity, resulting in the significant enhancement of power factor. The maximum power factor reaches 11.36 µW cm−1K−2 in Mn0.98Cu0.04Ag0.04Te. Consequently, an outstanding ZT of 1.3 is achieved for Mn0.98Cu0.04Ag0.04Te by these synergistic effects. This study provides guidelines for developing high‐performance thermoelectric materials through the rational design of effective dopants.
Influence of sustained loading on resistance and deformation capacity of reinforced concrete members in compression
Authors: Malja Xhemsi , Ebrahimi Motlagh Hamid Reza , Fernández Ruiz Miguel , Muttoni Aurelio
Published: November 2022

As acknowledged explicitly or implicitly in most of current design codes, a high level of sustained loading has a detrimental effect on the concrete compressive strength. However, its beneficial effect in terms of deformation capacity is neglected in most cases. This latter topic and its practical consequences are addressed in the present paper on the basis of an experimental and theoretical investigation. In particular, the development of nonlinear creep strains in structural concrete members is investigated, clarifying the internal redistribution of forces between concrete and the reinforcement. The results of an experimental program with refined measurements are presented to better understand the phenomenon and to verify the predictions of a mechanical model developed by the authors on the time‐dependent response of concrete. The experimental program consists of 14 prismatic specimens with different reinforcement ratios tested under a wide range of uniaxial stress rates. The results allow clarifying the material response and validating the mechanical model, both in terms of strength reduction and enhancement of deformation capacity. Finally, the results of parametric analyses, performed considering different concrete ages, reinforcement ratios, and materials properties are presented to evaluate the practical implications of the findings.
Diversity in freshwater life history in spring and summer Chinook Salmon from the Fraser River, Canada
Authors: Bradford Michael J. , Taylor Garth C.
Published: November 2022

Objective

We describe juvenile migration tactics for spring/summer-run populations of Chinook Salmon Oncorhynchus tshawytscha that spawn in tributaries of the Fraser River, Canada.

Methods

We trapped juveniles migrating from tributaries, and sampled juvenile Chinook salmon rearing in the Fraser River.

Result

In four tributaries, we found two dominant life history types within each population: a natal-stream-rearing variant in which juveniles spend a year in their natal stream before migrating to the sea as yearling smolts; and a fry migrant variant in which juveniles disperse downstream from spawning areas to the Fraser River main stem soon after emergence. In a fifth tributary, where flows are regulated, juveniles migrated as parr later in the spring. Juveniles colonized the Fraser River main stem in spring and were distributed throughout the accessible length of the main stem. Their relative density in nearshore habitats was similar to that observed in other rivers. Migrants spend up to a year in the main stem before smolting as yearlings.

Conclusion

The extensive year-round use of the Fraser River main stem appears to be unique among Chinook Salmon-producing watersheds, likely due to favorable environmental conditions in the main stem during the spring and summer months. The diversity of habitats used by these populations is an important consideration for the design of conservation programs that are intended to maintain or improve freshwater productivity.
Utility and safety of nafamostat mesilate for anticoagulation in dogs
Authors: Isayama Noriko , Matsumura Goki , Uchimura Yusuke , Maeda Erika , Sasaki Kenta
Published: November 2022

Background

Surgical interventions are recommended for cases of advanced mitral regurgitation, however, limited facilities are available. The most prominent complication in such procedures is heparin‐derived bleeding. An alternative anticoagulant to heparin, nafamostat mesilate (NM), can reduce the occurrence of complications associated with heparin such as bleeding or shock.

Objectives

This study aimed to evaluate the utility and safety of using NM during anaesthesia in canines.

Methods

Six healthy adult Beagle dogs were anaesthetised, and NM was administered intravenously as a 10 mg/kg bolus dose over 5 min, followed by a continuous infusion of 10 mg/kg/h over 20 min. Blood tests and blood pressure measurements were performed at 0, 5, 25 and 55 min after NM administration.

Results

Activated thromboplastin times at 0, 25 and 55 min were 13.0 ± 0.7 s, 106.7 ± 13.3 s and 28.2 ± 2.9 s, respectively, with a significant difference between 0 and 25 min (p < 0.01) only. No significant differences were observed in prothrombin time, antithrombin, fibrinogen and fibrin degradation product concentrations between timepoints. Activated clotting times (ACTs) at 0, 5, 25 and 55 min were 119.5 ± 9.6 s, 826.7 ± 78.6 s, 924.8 ± 42.4 s and 165.2 ± 13.5 s, respectively. Significant differences were observed between 0 and 5 min (p < 0.05) and between 0 and 25 min (p < 0.05). Blood pressure changes occurred in four dogs (66.7%). No other serious adverse effects were observed.

Conclusions

ACT results indicated that NM use in anaesthetised healthy dogs was sufficient to obtain procedural anticoagulation with minimal adverse effects. However, these preliminary data require validation in further studies on cardiopulmonary bypass surgery.
Integrating model simulation tools and cryo‐electron microscopy
Authors: Beton Joseph George , Cragnolini Tristan , Kaleel Manaz , Mulvaney Thomas , Sweeney Aaron , Topf Maya
Published: November 2022

The power of computer simulations, including machine‐learning, has become an inseparable part of scientific analysis of biological data. This has significantly impacted the field of cryogenic electron microscopy (cryo‐EM), which has grown dramatically since the “resolution‐revolution.” Many maps are now solved at 3–4 Å or better resolution, although a significant proportion of maps deposited in the Electron Microscopy Data Bank are still at lower resolution, where the positions of atoms cannot be determined unambiguously. Additionally, cryo‐EM maps are often characterized by a varying local resolution, partly due to conformational heterogeneity of the imaged molecule. To address such problems, many computational methods have been developed for cryo‐EM map reconstruction and atomistic model building. Here, we review the development in algorithms and tools for building models in cryo‐EM maps at different resolutions. We describe methods for model building, including rigid and flexible fitting of known models, model validation, small‐molecule fitting, and model visualization. We provide examples of how these methods have been used to elucidate the structure and function of dynamic macromolecular machines.

This article is categorized under:

Structure and Mechanism > Molecular Structures

Structure and Mechanism > Computational Biochemistry and Biophysics

Software > Molecular Modeling
Synthesis, characterization and electrochemical properties of aminophosphine monodentate, ‐chelate, and ‐bridge diiron bis(monothiolate) carbonyls
Authors: Gao Xin‐Ping , Bai Shu‐Fen , Guo Ya‐Nan , Li Qian‐Li , Lü Shuang
Published: November 2022

To develop the biomimetic chemistry of [FeFe]‐H2ases, three new aminophosphine substituted diiron bis(monothiolate) carbonyls were synthesized by reactions of [Fe2(μ‐SBn)2(CO)6] (Bn=CH2C6H5) with aryl‐substituted aminodiphosphine (PNP) ligand (Ph2P)2NC6H4‐4‐C≡CH under two different conditions. Treatment of them in the presence of Me3NO ⋅ 2H2O at room temperature gave PNP‐chelated complex [Fe2(μ‐SBn)2(CO)4{(κ2‐Ph2P)2N(C6H4‐4‐C≡CH)}] (2) together with unexpected aminophosphine monosubstituted complex [Fe2(μ‐SBn)2(CO)5{κ1‐Ph2PNH(NC6H4‐4‐C≡CH)}](1), while treatment of them in refluxing toluene gave PNP‐bridged complex [Fe2(μ‐SBn)2(CO)4{(μ‐Ph2P)2N(C6H4‐4‐C≡CH)}] (3) as the major product. Complex 1 has two isomers (1‐anti and 1‐syn), and chelate complex 2 is the isomer of bridge complex 3. The more interesting finding is that 1‐anti and 2 can be converted into 1‐syn and 3, respectively. Complexes 1–3 were well characterized by elemental analysis, FT‐IR, NMR spectroscopy, and X‐ray diffraction analyses. In addition, electrochemical and electrocatalytic properties of 1–3 were studied by cyclic voltammetry (CV).
Marine Geology of Kuwait
Authors: Karam Qusaie Ebrahim
Published: November 2022

Kuwait marine geology can be directly or indirectly influenced by various environmental, anthropogenic, industrial, and geomorphological factors continuously altering its nature and affecting its numerous compartments like fauna/flora, water chemistry, physical oceanography, etc. In this chapter, we attempted to describe salient characteristics about Kuwait onshore, and offshore marine geology from historical and modern perspectives. It highlights unique and dynamic ecological and geological factors that are continuously influencing its nature concerning local and transboundary environmental impacts in addition to the significantly booming oil industry that is persistently transforming Kuwait’s marine geology.
Geo- and Environmental Hazard Studies in Kuwait
Authors: Al-Awadhi Jasem Mohammed , Abd el-aal Abd el-aziz Khairy , Misak Raafat , Abdulhadi Ahmed
Published: November 2022

Low magnitude Earthquakes are the most natural hazard facing Kuwait, while other environmental challenges such as flooding, dust fallout, land degradation, and aeolian sand movement often arise from human impact as well as natural factors. Because of the rapid socio-economic development in the last five decades in Kuwait, these issues cause environmental and social problems as well as economic disturbance; they are also considered natural disasters for country. The scale and intensity of the geological environment hazards are considerably increasing especially land degradation, and impacting on the harsh structure of desert ecosystem. Due to fragility of the desert environment, human activities exceeding the carrying capability of the geo-environment system can easily lead to geological and environmental hazards; such as runoff, sand and dunes movements and dust fallout causing serial environmental and health impacts. Geographic Information System (GIS) has been used to evaluate the degrees of geological hazard and risk by producing maps for each hazard; seismic, sand potentiality, hydrologic risk, land degradation, and sand drift severity maps are produced.
Ca2+ binding to synapsin I regulates resting Ca2+ and recovery from synaptic depression in nerve terminals
Authors: Moschetta Matteo , Ravasenga Tiziana , De Fusco Antonio , Maragliano Luca , Aprile Davide , Orlando Marta , Sacchetti Silvio , Casagrande Silvia , Lignani Gabriele , Fassio Anna , Baldelli Pietro , Benfenati Fabio
Published: November 2022

Synapsin I (SynI) is a synaptic vesicle (SV)-associated phosphoprotein that modulates neurotransmission by controlling SV trafficking. The SynI C-domain contains a highly conserved ATP binding site mediating SynI oligomerization and SV clustering and an adjacent main Ca2+ binding site, whose physiological role is unexplored. Molecular dynamics simulations revealed that the E373K point mutation irreversibly deletes Ca2+ binding to SynI, still allowing ATP binding, but inducing a destabilization of the SynI oligomerization interface. Here, we analyzed the effects of this mutation on neurotransmitter release and short-term plasticity in excitatory and inhibitory synapses from primary hippocampal neurons. Patch-clamp recordings showed an increase in the frequency of miniature excitatory postsynaptic currents (EPSCs) that was totally occluded by exogenous Ca2+ chelators and associated with a constitutive increase in resting terminal Ca2+ concentrations. Evoked EPSC amplitude was also reduced, due to a decreased readily releasable pool (RRP) size. Moreover, in both excitatory and inhibitory synapses, we observed a marked impaired recovery from synaptic depression, associated with impaired RRP refilling and depletion of the recycling pool of SVs. Our study identifies SynI as a novel Ca2+ buffer in excitatory terminals. Blocking Ca2+ binding to SynI results in higher constitutive Ca2+ levels that increase the probability of spontaneous release and disperse SVs. This causes a decreased size of the RRP and an impaired recovery from depression due to the failure of SV reclustering after sustained high-frequency stimulation. The results indicate a physiological role of Ca2+ binding to SynI in the regulation of SV clustering and trafficking in nerve terminals.
Projecting the incidence and costs of major cardiovascular and kidney complications of type 2 diabetes with widespread SGLT2i and GLP-1 RA use: a cost-effectiveness analysis
Authors: Morton Jedidiah I. , Marquina Clara , Shaw Jonathan E. , Liew Danny , Polkinghorne Kevan R. , Ademi Zanfina , Magliano Dianna J.
Published: November 2022

Aims/hypothesis

Whether sodium–glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2is) or glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) are cost-effective based solely on their cardiovascular and kidney benefits is unknown. We projected the health and economic outcomes due to myocardial infarction (MI), stroke, heart failure (HF) and end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) among people with type 2 diabetes, with and without CVD, under scenarios of widespread use of these drugs.

Methods

We designed a microsimulation model using real-world data that captured CVD and ESKD morbidity and mortality from 2020 to 2040. The populations and transition probabilities were derived by linking the Australian Diabetes Registry (1.1 million people with type 2 diabetes) to hospital admissions databases, the National Death Index and the ESKD Registry using data from 2010 to 2019. We modelled four interventions: increase in use of SGLT2is or GLP-1 RAs to 75% of the total population with type 2 diabetes, and increase in use of SGLT2is or GLP-1 RAs to 75% of the secondary prevention population (i.e. people with type 2 diabetes and prior CVD). All interventions were compared with current use of SGLT2is (20% of the total population) and GLP-1 RAs (5% of the total population). Outcomes of interest included quality-adjusted life years (QALYs), total costs (from the Australian public healthcare perspective) and the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER). We applied 5% annual discounting for health economic outcomes. The willingness-to-pay threshold was set at AU$28,000 per QALY gained.

Results

The numbers of QALYs gained from 2020 to 2040 with increased SGLT2i and GLP-1 RA use in the total population (n=1.1 million in 2020; n=1.5 million in 2040) were 176,446 and 200,932, respectively, compared with current use. Net cost differences were AU$4.2 billion for SGLT2is and AU$20.2 billion for GLP-1 RAs, and the ICERs were AU$23,717 and AU$100,705 per QALY gained, respectively. In the secondary prevention population, the ICERs were AU$8878 for SGLT2is and AU$79,742 for GLP-1 RAs.

Conclusions/interpretation

At current prices, use of SGLT2is, but not GLP-1 RAs, would be cost-effective when considering only their cardiovascular and kidney disease benefits for people with type 2 diabetes.

Graphical abstract
The Coven–Meyerowitz tiling conditions for 3 odd prime factors
Authors: Łaba Izabella , Londner Itay
Published: November 2022

It is well known that if a finite set $$A\subset \mathbb {Z}$$

A
⊂
Z

tiles the integers by translations, then the translation set must be periodic, so that the tiling is equivalent to a factorization $$A\oplus B=\mathbb {Z}_M$$

A
⊕
B
=

Z
M

of a finite cyclic group. We are interested in characterizing all finite sets $$A\subset \mathbb {Z}$$

A
⊂
Z

that have this property. Coven and Meyerowitz (J Algebra 212:161–174, 1999) proposed conditions (T1), (T2) that are sufficient for A to tile, and necessary when the cardinality of A has at most two distinct prime factors. They also proved that (T1) holds for all finite tiles, regardless of size. It is not known whether (T2) must hold for all tilings with no restrictions on the number of prime factors of |A|. We prove that the Coven–Meyerowitz tiling condition (T2) holds for all integer tilings of period $$M=(p_ip_jp_k)^2$$

M
=

(

p
i

p
j

p
k

)

2

, where $$p_i,p_j,p_k$$

p
i

,

p
j

,

p
k

are distinct odd primes. The proof also provides a classification of all such tilings.
Predicting clinically significant prostate cancer with a deep learning approach: a multicentre retrospective study
Authors: Zhao Litao , Bao Jie , Qiao Xiaomeng , Jin Pengfei , Ji Yanting , Li Zhenkai , Zhang Ji , Su Yueting , Ji Libiao , Shen Junkang , Zhang Yueyue , Niu Lei , Xie Wanfang , Hu Chunhong , Shen Hailin , Wang Ximing , Liu Jiangang , Tian Jie
Published: November 2022

Purpose

This study aimed to develop deep learning (DL) models based on multicentre biparametric magnetic resonance imaging (bpMRI) for the diagnosis of clinically significant prostate cancer (csPCa) and compare the performance of these models with that of the Prostate Imaging and Reporting and Data System (PI-RADS) assessment by expert radiologists based on multiparametric MRI (mpMRI).

Methods

We included 1861 consecutive male patients who underwent radical prostatectomy or biopsy at seven hospitals with mpMRI. These patients were divided into the training (1216 patients in three hospitals) and external validation cohorts (645 patients in four hospitals). PI-RADS assessment was performed by expert radiologists. We developed DL models for the classification between benign and malignant lesions (DL-BM) and that between csPCa and non-csPCa (DL-CS). An integrated model combining PI-RADS and the DL-CS model, abbreviated as PIDL-CS, was developed. The performances of the DL models and PIDL-CS were compared with that of PI-RADS.

Results

In each external validation cohort, the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) values of the DL-BM and DL-CS models were not significantly different from that of PI-RADS (P > 0.05), whereas the AUC of PIDL-CS was superior to that of PI-RADS (P < 0.05), except for one external validation cohort (P > 0.05). The specificity of PIDL-CS for the detection of csPCa was much higher than that of PI-RADS (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Our proposed DL models can be a potential non-invasive auxiliary tool for predicting csPCa. Furthermore, PIDL-CS greatly increased the specificity of csPCa detection compared with PI-RADS assessment by expert radiologists, greatly reducing unnecessary biopsies and helping radiologists achieve a precise diagnosis of csPCa.
Der Nationale Kompetenzbasierte Lernzielkatalog Medizin NKLM 2.0 – Auswirkungen auf die Lehre in der Augenheilkunde
Authors: Plange Niklas , Feltgen Nicolas ,   Arbeitsgemeinschaft Lehre, Feltgen Nicolas , Bartz-Schmidt Karl Ulrich , Beyer Tabea , Hedergott Andrea , Holz Frank , Käsmann-Kellner Barbara , Lauermann Jost Lennart , Maier Philip , Mercieca Karl , Pitz Susanne , Plange Niklas , Salchow Daniel J. , Schmack Ingo , Stahl Andreas , Stasik Isabel
Published: November 2022

Hintergrund

Der „Masterplan Medizin 2020“ umfasst eine 2017 verabschiedete politische Agenda von grundlegenden Veränderungen der medizinischen Ausbildung. Der Nationale Kompetenzbasierte Lernkatalog Medizin (NKLM) soll die inhaltliche Grundlage für diese Neustrukturierungen darstellen und wird in einer neuen Approbationsordnung rechtsverbindlich werden.

Methode

Der NKLM 2.0 wurde Ende 2021 verabschiedet. Die Grundlage ist ein kompetenzbasiertes Lernzielkonzept, welches die Arzt-Patienten-Kommunikation in das Zentrum des ärztlichen Handelns stellt. Die Struktur des NKLM soll dargestellt und die für die Lehre in der Augenheilkunde relevanten Inhalte sollen als Übersicht aufgearbeitet werden.

Ergebnisse

Spezifische Inhalte für die Lehre der Augenheilkunde finden sich in den Kapiteln V „Konsultationsanlässe“, Kapitel VI „Erkrankungen“, Kapitel VII „Übergeordnete und krankheitsbezogene Lernziele“ und Kapitel VIII „Übergeordnete Kompetenzen“. Die Kapitel werden stichpunktartig dargestellt.

Schlussfolgerung

Der NKLM 2.0 hat eine komplexe Struktur, die auf den ersten Blick nicht einfach zu durchdringen ist. Für die inhaltliche Neustrukturierung der Lehre der Augenheilkunde ist es notwendig, dass die Inhalte des NKLM 2.0 in der entsprechenden Tiefe vermittelt werden, da dieser in Zukunft rechtsverbindlich sein wird. Er bietet dennoch genug inhaltlichen Freiraum, um die Lerntiefe und die Lehre im Detail nicht einzuengen.
Endothelial dysfunction as a factor leading to arterial hypertension
Authors: Drożdż Dorota , Drożdż Monika , Wójcik Małgorzata
Published: November 2022

Hypertension remains the main cause of cardiovascular complications leading to increased mortality. The discoveries of recent years underline the important role of endothelial dysfunction (ED) in initiating the development of arterial hypertension. The endothelium lines the interior of the entire vascular system in the body and acts as a physical barrier between blood and tissues. Substances and mediators produced by the endothelium exhibit antithrombotic and anti-inflammatory properties. Oxidative stress and inflammation are conditions that damage the endothelium and shift endothelial function from vasoprotective to vasoconstrictive, prothrombotic, and pro-apoptotic functions. A dysfunctional endothelium contributes to the development of hypertension and further cardiovascular complications. Reduced nitric oxide (NO) bioavailability plays an essential role in the pathophysiology of ED-associated hypertension. New technologies provide tools to identify pathological changes in the structure and function of the endothelium. Endothelial dysfunction (ED) contributes to the development of arterial hypertension and should be considered in therapeutic strategies for children with hypertension.
Humoral immune response and live-virus neutralization of the SARS-CoV-2 omicron (BA.1) variant after COVID-19 mRNA vaccination in children and young adults with chronic kidney disease
Authors: Stich Maximilian , Di Cristanziano Veronica , Tönshoff Burkhard , Weber Lutz Thorsten , Dötsch Jörg , Rammer Marian Theodor , Rieger Susanne , Heger Eva , Garbade Sven F. , Burgmaier Kathrin , Benning Louise , Speer Claudius , Habbig Sandra , Haumann Sophie
Published: November 2022

Background

Data on humoral immune response to standard COVID-19 vaccination are scarce in adolescent patients and lacking for children below 12 years of age with chronic kidney disease including kidney transplant recipients.

Methods

We therefore investigated in this retrospective two-center study (DRKS00024668; registered 23.03.2021) the humoral immune response to a standard two-dose mRNA vaccine regimen in 123 CKD patients aged 5–30 years. A live-virus assay was used to assess the serum neutralizing activity against the SARS-CoV-2 omicron (BA.1) variant.

Results

Children aged 5–11 years had a comparable rate and degree of immune response to adolescents despite lower vaccine doses (10 µg vs. 30 µg BNT162b2). Treatment with two (odds ratio 9.24) or three or more (odds ratio 17.07) immunosuppressants was an independent risk factor for nonresponse. The immune response differed significantly among three patient cohorts: 48 of 77 (62.3%) kidney transplant recipients, 21 of 26 (80.8%) patients on immunosuppressive therapy, and 19 of 20 (95.0%) patients with chronic kidney disease without immunosuppressive therapy responded. In the kidney transplant recipients, immunosuppressive regimens comprising mycophenolate mofetil, an eGFR of < 60 mL/min/1.73 m2, and female sex were independent risk factors for nonresponse. Two of 18 (11.1%) and 8 of 16 (50.0%) patients with an anti-S1-RBD IgG of 100–1411 and > 1411 BAU/mL, respectively, showed a neutralization activity against the omicron variant.

Conclusion

A standard mRNA vaccine regimen in immunosuppressed children and adolescents with kidney disease elicits an attenuated humoral immune response with effective live virus neutralization against the omicron variant in approximately 10% of the patients, underlying the need for omicron-adapted vaccination.

Graphical abstract
Normative values of renin and aldosterone in clinically stable preterm neonates
Authors: Xu James Haiyang , Bariciak Erika , Harrison Mary-Ann , Broom Margaret , Lemyre Brigitte , Webster Richard J. , Weiler Gabrielle , Dahlstrom Jane E. , Kent Alison
Published: November 2022

Background

There is a paucity of literature on the normative levels of plasma renin concentration (PRC) and serum aldosterone (SA) in premature neonates. This study aims to provide normative data on PRC and SA levels in preterm neonates in the first 2 weeks after birth and explore associations with maternal, perinatal, or postnatal factors.

Methods

Neonates born at 26- to 34-week gestation were recruited from two neonatal intensive care units in Canada and Australia. The direct renin assay PRC and SA were analyzed on day 1 and days 14–21 after birth to compare across categorical variables and to produce normative values.

Results

A total of 262 subjects were enrolled from the Canadian (29%) and Australian (71%) sites. The mean gestational age was 30 weeks, with a mean birth weight of 1457 g. The normative values of PRC and SA for neonates born between 26 + 0 and 29 + 6 weeks and 30 + 0 and 34 + 0 weeks of gestation were produced for day 1 and day 14–21 after birth. Both PRC and SA increased from day 1 to day 14–21. The more premature neonates reached a higher PRC on days 14–21 after birth but exhibited lower SA levels on day 1 after birth. When comparing gender, birth weight, and maternal risk factor categories, no statistical differences in PRC or SA were found. A small but significant decrease in PRC, but not SA, was noted for neonates with placental pathology.

Conclusions

This study produced normative values of PRA and SA in clinically stable preterm neonates that can be referenced for use in clinical practice.

Graphical Abstract
Risk analysis framework for the optimum remediation of a contaminated aquifer under uncertainty: application in Lake Karla aquifer, Thessaly, Greece
Authors: Sidiropoulos Pantelis , Mylopoulos Nikitas , Lyra Aikaterini , Tziatzios Georgios A. , Loukas Athanasios
Published: November 2022

A risk analysis framework is proposed for the optimum remediation of a contaminated aquifer under hydrogeological uncertainty. The limited information and the spatial variation of hydraulic conductivity in a real-world large-scale aquifer create uncertain conditions for decision-making when remediation schemes ought to be accompanied by the minimum possibility of failure. The primary concern is focused on safeguarding public health when groundwater is used for urban drinking purposes from a contaminated aquifer. The proposed framework is based on the conjunctive use of stochastic simulation–optimization modelling followed up by a risk analysis application on remediation trade-offs. The framework includes three main steps/procedures: (i) the model formulation of multiple realizations of groundwater flow and contaminant transport, (ii) the optimal positioning and operation of the clean-up wells determined by the method of stochastic optimization, and (iii) the risk analysis of the optimum remediation strategies through a proposed decision model, so as the one with the minimum cost and risk of failure is chosen as the most appropriate. The proposed framework is tested for two scenarios of nitrogen fertilizer application in the cultivated areas. The strategic target is the groundwater nitrate concentration minimization in an area where exceedances of nitrate concentrations have been observed and water supply wells have been operating for the last twenty years satisfying domestic needs. The results demonstrate that, when decision-making is under hydrogeological uncertainty, the combined use of stochastic optimization and risk-based decision analysis can commend the remediation strategy with the minimum cost and the highest possibility of success.
Hydrogen bonding and other non-covalent interactions at the surfaces of cellulose microfibrils
Authors: Jarvis Michael C.
Published: November 2022

It is now established that crystalline cellulose is held together not just by hydrogen bonding, but also by dispersion forces and by electrostatic attraction modulated by stereoelectronic factors such as the exo-anomeric effect. The surface chains of native cellulose microfibrils differ in C6 conformation from crystalline cellulose and therefore form different hydrogen bonds, both outward and inward. Dispersion and electrostatic forces, influenced by cellulose conformation, also operate at the microfibril surface. The surface conformation depends on whether cellulose interacts with water, with the surfaces of other microfibrils or with non-cellulosic polymers. Cellulose-water binding competes with other binding interactions, so that diverse surface interactions are finely balanced in free energy, difficult to simulate, and dependent on local details of water structuring about which little is known, especially in the presence of dispersed chains of hemicellulosic or pectic polymers. An example is the influence of hydration on the aggregation of microfibrils as measured by neutron scattering, which is large for primary-wall cellulose and small for hardwood microfibrils. There are many consequent uncertainties about the surface interactions of hydrated cellulose microfibrils, for example how pectins associate with cellulose or why cellulose-xylan interfaces resist hydration. Evidence from a range of experimental technologies, alongside simulations, will be needed to resolve these uncertainties. The practical implications are wide-ranging, from the mechanism of plant growth and the mechanical resilience of wood to the development of novel, wood-based building materials.
Exosomal miR-767 from senescent endothelial-derived accelerating skin fibroblasts aging via inhibiting TAB1
Authors: Li Jing , Tan Jiyong , Song Qiong , Yang Xinni , Zhang Xin , Qin Hao , Huang Gaoxiang , Su Xiaoxue , Li Jing
Published: November 2022

Skin aging is a complicated physiological process, and microRNA-mediated regulation has been shown to contribute to this process. Exosomes mediate intercellular communication through miRNAs, mRNAs and proteins, and participate in many physiological and pathological processes. Vascular endothelial cell-derived exosomes have been confirmed to be involved in the development of many diseases, however, their effects on skin aging have not been reported. In this study, senescent endothelial cells could regulate skin fibroblast functions and promote cell senescence through exosomal pathway. miR-767 was highly expressed in senescent vascular endothelial cells and their exosomes, and miR-767 is also upregulated in skin fibroblasts after treatment with exosomes derived from senescent vascular endothelial cells. In addition, transfection with miR-767 mimic promoted senescence of skin fibroblasts, while transfection with miR-767 inhibitor reversed the effect of D-galactose. Double luciferase analysis confirmed that TAB1 was a direct target gene of miR-767. Furthermore, miR-767 expression was increased and TAB1 expression was decreased in D-galactose induced aging mice. In mice that overexpressed miR-767, HE staining showed thinning of dermis and senescence appearance. In conclusion, senescent vascular endothelial cell-derived exosome mediated miR-767 regulates skin fibroblasts through the exosome pathway. Our study reveals the role of vascular endothelial cell-derived exosomes in aging in the skin microenvironment and contributes to the discovery of new targets for delaying senescence.
‘By creating plot texts, man learnt to distinguish plots in life and thus to make sense of life’: a discussion of narratology in the work of Juri Lotman
Authors: Andrew Joe
Published: November 2022

The overall aims of this article are to revisit one of the key contributions to narratology of the late twentieth century, Juri Lotman’s The origin of plot in the light of typology of 1973, to attempt to determine its place in Lotman’s work as a whole, its relationship with the work of other theorists, as well as to suggest its value, and its applicability to literature and other manifestations of human culture. Of course, Lotman was not the first to suggest that narrative structure and plots have some claims to universality. Moreover, in the twentieth-first century story, plot and narrative—and the terms are more or less interchangeable in general usage—have become almost ubiquitous, being applied to politics, sport, history as well as cultural objects as such. In this seepage of cultural theory into popular culture, and, in fact, into everyday day parlance, Lotman’s article plays a pivotal role, and has become a modern classic of literary theory.

Origins itself covers a wide area and ranges from prehistory to contemporary times. In this overview he offers myriad examples from Ancient Greece, Shakespeare, Dostoevsky and many more besides. In some ways, it is important to see this piece of 1973 as an extension of his own Struktura khudozhestvennaia teksta of three years previously. In this, one of his more rigorously structuralist works, Lotman sees semiotic space organised in binary terms along the positive / negative axis of verkh / niz. But in Origin, Lotman establishes a very powerful, infinitely replicable typology, encapsulated in the simple chain: “entry into enclosed space—exit from it.”

Important refinements have been made to this model by Teresa de Lauretis in her seminal article “Desire in narrative,” where in her feminist re-reading of Lotman she does not in any way undermine the validity of Lotman’s model, but greatly enhances it. This model, especially as refined by de Lauretis, has immense applicability. For example, Turgenev’s four major novels, with their heroes entering the enclosed space of the ‘enclave’, only to fail the ‘test of love’, readily spring to mind, as do most of the stories comprising Lermontov’s A Hero of Our Time, as well as Pushkin’s Evgenii Onegin. After offering an overview of such instances, this article will give about half a dozen ‘case studies’ to provide more in-depth assessments of the applicability of Lotman’s theories. The texts to be analysed as case studies are Turgenev’s Asya, Dostoevsky’s Notes from Underground and Brothers Karamazov; Tolstoy’s Father Sergius, and the films Kommissar by Askoldov, and Bodrov’s Prisoner of the Caucasus.
Gender-Specific Wage Structure and the Gender Wage Gap in the U.S. Labor Market
Authors: Rotman Assaf , Mandel Hadas
Published: November 2022

This paper challenges the predominant conceptualization of the wage structure as gender-neutral, emphasizing the contribution that this makes to the gender wage gap. Unlike most decomposition analyses, which concentrated on gender differences in productivity-enhancing characteristics (the ‘explained’ portion), we concentrate on the ‘wage structure’ (the ‘unexplained’ portion), which can be defined as the market returns to productivity-enhancing characteristics. These returns are commonly considered a reflection of non-gendered economic forces of supply and demand, and gender differences in these returns are attributed to market failure or measurement error. Using PSID data on working-age employees from 1980 to 2010, we examine gender differences in returns to education and work experience in the U.S. labor market. Based on a threefold decomposition, we estimate the contribution of these differences to the overall pay gap. The results show that men’s returns to education and work experience are higher than women’s; and that in contrast to the well-documented trend of narrowing gender gaps in skills and earnings, the gaps in returns increase over time in men’s favor. Furthermore, the existing gender differences in returns to skills explain a much larger proportion of the gender wage gap than differences in levels of education and experience between men and women. The paper discusses the mechanisms underlying these findings.
Fouling characterisation in PVDF membrane contactors for dissolved methane recovery from anaerobic effluents: effect of surface organofluorosilanisation
Authors: Jiménez-Robles Ramón , Martínez-Soria Vicente , Izquierdo Marta
Published: November 2022

Characterisation of the fouling attached to PVDF membranes treating an anaerobic effluent for dissolved CH4 recovery was carried out. A commercial flat-sheet PVDF membrane and a PVDF functionalised by grafting of organofluorosilanes (mPVDF) that increased its hydrophobicity were subjected to a continuous flux of an anaerobic reactor effluent in long-term operation tests (> 800 h). The fouling cakes were studied by the membrane autopsy after these tests, combining a staining technique, FTIR, and FESEM-EDX, and the fouling extraction with water and NaOH solutions. Both organic and inorganic fouling were observed, and the main foulants were proteins, polysaccharides, and different calcium and phosphate salts. Also, a significant amount of live cells was detected on the fouling cake (especially on the non-modified PVDF). Although the fouling cake composition was quite heterogeneous, a stratification was observed, with the inorganic fouling mainly in the bulk centre of the cake and the organic fouling mainly located in the lower and upper surfaces of the cake. The mPVDF suffered a more severe fouling, likely owing to a stronger hydrophobic-hydrophobic interaction with the foulants. Irreversible fouling remained on both membranes after the extraction, although a higher irreversible fouling was detected in the mPVDF; however, a complete polysaccharide removal was observed. Regarding the operation performance, PVDF showed a lower stability and suffered a severe degradation, resulting in a lower thickness and perforations. Finally, the decrease in the methane recovery performance of both membranes was associated with the fouling depositions.

Graphical Abstract
Atrial fibrillation episode patterns as predictor of clinical outcome of catheter ablation
Authors: Saiz-Vivó Javier , Corino Valentina D. A. , Martín-Yebra Alba , Mainardi Luca T. , Hatala Robert , Sörnmo Leif
Published: November 2022

Methods for characterization of atrial fibrillation (AF) episode patterns have been introduced without establishing clinical significance. This study investigates, for the first time, whether post-ablation recurrence of AF can be predicted by evaluating episode patterns. The dataset comprises of 54 patients (age 56 ± 11 years; 67% men), with an implantable cardiac monitor, before undergoing the first AF catheter ablation. Two parameters of the alternating bivariate Hawkes model were used to characterize the pattern: AF dominance during the monitoring period (log(mu)) and temporal aggregation of episodes (beta1). Moreover, AF burden and AF density, a parameter characterizing aggregation of AF burden, were studied. The four parameters were computed from an average of 29 AF episodes before ablation. The risk of AF recurrence after catheter ablation using the Hawkes parameters log(mu) and beta1, AF burden, and AF density was evaluated. While the combination of AF burden and AF density is related to a non-significant hazard ratio, the combination of log(mu) and beta1 is related to a hazard ratio of 1.95 (1.03–3.70; p < 0.05). The Hawkes parameters showed increased risk of AF recurrence within 1 year after the procedure for patients with high AF dominance and high episode aggregation and may be used for pre-ablation risk assessment.

Graphical Abstract
Extending the shelf life of mango (Mangifera indica L.) fruits by using edible coating based on xanthan gum and pomegranate peel extract
Authors: Kumar Nishant , Pratibha  , Upadhyay Ashutosh , Trajkovska Petkoska Anka , Gniewosz Małgorzata , Kieliszek Marek
Published: November 2022

The effect of various concentration of xanthan gum (0.5%, 1%, and 2%) based edible coating supplemented with pomegranate peel extract (0.5 mL) on functional and physico-chemical properties of mango (Mangifera indicaL.) fruits were studied during the storage period of 15 days at 22 °C. The application of xanthan gum (XG) based edible formulations with pomegranate peel extract (PPE) was found to be effective to maintain the quality attributes and characteristics like reducing weight loss, respiration rate, ethylene production, maintained total soluble solids (TSS), acidity, pH, texture property, ascorbic acid, phenols, and antioxidant activity as compared to control samples. In general, all tested formulations are effective; but edible coatings based on 2% of XG were found the most potential to prevent the postharvest characteristics of mango fruits while maintaining the quality attributes.
Dosimetry and efficacy of a tau PET tracer [18F]MK-6240 in Japanese healthy elderly and patients with Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Ohnishi Akihito , Akamatsu Go , Ikari Yasuhiko , Nishida Hiroyuki , Shimizu Keiji , Matsumoto Keiichi , Aita Kazuki , Sasaki Masahiro , Yamamoto Yasuji , Yamane Tomohiko , Senda Michio
Published: November 2022

Objective

A new tau PET tracer [18F]MK-6240 has been developed; however, its dosimetry and pharmacokinetics have been published only for a European population. This study investigated the safety, radiation dosimetry, pharmacokinetics and biodistribution of [18F]MK-6240 in Japanese elderly subjects. Also, the pattern and extent of brain retention of [18F]MK-6240 in Japanese healthy elderly subjects and patients with Alzheimer’s disease (AD) were investigated. These Japanese results were compared with previous reports on non-Japanese.

Methods

Three healthy elderly subjects and three AD patients were enrolled. Dynamic whole-body PET scans were acquired for up to 232 min after starting injection of [18F]MK-6240 (370.4 ± 27.0 MBq) for the former, while a dynamic brain scan was performed from 0 to 75 min post injection for the latter. For both groups, brain PET scans were conducted from 90 to 110 min post injection. Sequential venous blood sampling was performed to measure the radioactivity concentration in the whole blood and plasma as well as the percentages of parent [18F]MK-6240 and radioactive metabolites in plasma. Organ doses and effective doses were estimated using the OLINDA Ver.2 software. Standardized uptake value ratios (SUVRs) and distribution volume ratios (DVRs) by Logan reference tissue model (LRTM) were measured in eight brain regions using the cerebellar cortex as the reference. Blood tests, urine analysis, vital signs and electrocardiography were performed for safety assessments.

Results

No adverse events were observed. The highest radiation doses were received by the gallbladder (257.7 ± 74.9 μGy/MBq) and the urinary bladder (127.3 ± 11.7 μGy/MBq). The effective dose was 26.8 ± 1.4 μSv/MBq. The parent form ([18F]MK-6240) was metabolized quickly and was less than 15% by 35 min post injection. While no obvious accumulation was found in the brain of healthy subjects, focal accumulation of [18F]MK-6240 was observed in the cerebral cortex of AD patients. Regional SUVRs of the focal lesions in AD patients increased gradually over time, and the difference of SUVRs between healthy subjects and AD patients became large and stable at 90 min after injection. High correlations of SUVR and DVR were observed (p < 0.01).

Conclusion

The findings supported safety and efficacy of [18F]MK-6240 as a tau PET tracer for Japanese populations. Even though the number of subjects was limited, the radiation dosimetry profiles, pharmacokinetics, and biodistribution of [18F]MK-6240 were consistent with those for non-Japanese populations.

Trial registration

Japan Pharmaceutical Information Center ID, JapicCTI-194972.
Copper-based metal halides for X-ray and photodetection
Authors: Qiu Fu , Lei Yutian , Jin Zhiwen
Published: November 2022

Copper-based metal halides have become important materials in the field of X-ray and photodetection due to their excellent optical properties, good environmental stability and low toxicity. This review presents the progress of research on crystal structure/morphology, photophysics/optical properties and applications of copper-based metal halides. We also discuss the challenges of copper-based metal halides with a perspective of their future research directions.

Graphical Abstract
Serum insulin-like growth factor binding protein 3 as a promising diagnostic and prognostic biomarker in esophagogastric junction adenocarcinoma
Authors: Ding Tian-Yan , Peng Yu-Hui , Hong Chao-Qun , Huang Bin-Liang , Liu Can-Tong , Luo Yun , Chu Ling-Yu , Zhang Biao , Li Xin-Hao , Qu Qi-Qi , Xu Yi-Wei , Wu Fang-Cai
Published: November 2022

Background

Esophagogastric junction adenocarcinoma (EJA) lacks serum biomarkers to assist in diagnosis and prognosis. Here, we aimed to evaluate the diagnostic and prognostic value of serum insulin-like growth factor binding protein 3 (IGFBP3) in EJA patients.

Methods

320 participants were recruited from November 2016 to January 2020, who were randomly divided into a training cohort (112 normal controls and 102 EJA patients including 24 early-stage patients) and a validation cohort (56 normal controls and 50 EJA patients including 12 early-stage patients). We used receiver operating characteristics curve (ROC) to evaluate diagnostic value. The predictive performance of the nomogram was evaluated by the concordance index (C-index).

Results

Serum IGFBP3 levels were significantly lower in early-stage EJA or EJA patients than those in controls (P < 0.01). Measurement of serum IGFBP3 demonstrated an area under curve of 0.819, specificity 90.18% and sensitivity 43.14% in training cohort. Similar results were observed in validation cohort (0.804, 87.50%, 42.00%). Importantly, serum IGFBP3 had a satisfactory diagnostic value for early-stage EJA (0.822, 90.18%, 45.83% and 0.811, 84.48%, 50.00% in training and validation cohorts, respectively). Furthermore, survival analysis demonstrated that lower serum IGFBP3 level was related to poor prognosis (P < 0.05). Cox multivariate analysis revealed that serum IGFBP3 was an independent prognostic factor (HR = 0.468, P = 0.005). Compared with TNM stage, a nomogram based on serum IGFBP3, tumor size and TNM stage indicated an improved C-index in prognostic prediction (0.625 vs. 0.735, P = 0.001).

Conclusions

We found that serum IGFBP3 was a potential diagnostic and prognostic marker of EJA. Meanwhile, the nomogram might predict the prognosis of EJA more accurately and efficiently.