bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hostile and threatening interpretation biases in adolescent inpatients are specific to callous-unemotional traits and social anxiety
Authors: Dapprich Anna L. , Derks Laura M. , Holtmann Martin , Lange Wolf-Gero , Legenbauer Tanja , Becker Eni S.
Published: May 2023

Psychopathological syndromes, such as disruptive behavior and anxiety disorders in adolescence, are characterized by distorted cognitions and problematic behavior. Biased interpretations of ambiguous social situations can elicit both aggressive and avoidance behavior. Yet, it is not well understood whether different interpretation biases are specific to different syndromes, or whether they can co-occur. We assessed both hostile and threatening interpretation biases in identical social situations, and proposed that they are uniquely related to callous-unemotional (CU) traits and social anxiety, respectively. We also explored the role of gender and age herein. The sample consisted of 390 inpatients between 10 and 18 years of age with a variety of psychiatric disorders. Hostile and threatening interpretations were assessed with the Ambiguous Social Scenario Task (ASST) consisting of 10 written vignettes. Both CU-traits and social anxiety were assessed with self-report questionnaires. Results showed that, overall, CU-traits were related to more hostile interpretations, whereas social anxiety was related to more threatening interpretations. In addition, in boys, hostile and threatening interpretations correlated significantly positive with each other. Age was not related to interpretation biases. Together, these results generally support the content-specificity of interpretation biases in concepts relevant to disruptive behavior disorders and anxiety disorders, and indicate that different interpretation biases can co-occur specifically in boys.
Verbenone—the universal bark beetle repellent? Its origin, effects, and ecological roles
Authors: Frühbrodt Tobias , Schebeck Martin , Andersson Martin N. , Holighaus Gerrit , Kreuzwieser Jürgen , Burzlaff Tim , Delb Horst , Biedermann Peter H. W.
Published: May 2023

Bark beetles (Curculionidae: Scolytinae) spend most of their life in tissues of host plants, with several species representing economically relevant pests. Their behaviour is largely guided by complex olfactory cues. The compound verbenone was discovered early in the history of bark beetle pheromone research and is now sometimes referred to as a ‘universal bark beetle repellent’. However, some studies aiming to protect trees with verbenone have failed. In fact, most research effort has gone into applied studies, leaving many questions regarding the ecological functions of verbenone for various species unanswered. Here, we review and analyse the scientific literature from more than 50 years. Behavioural responses to verbenone are common among pest bark beetles (< 1% of scolytine species studied so far). Indeed, attraction is inhibited in 38 species from 16 genera, while some secondary species are unaffected or even attracted to verbenone. It is not clear whether the beetles can control the biosynthesis of verbenone; its release may not be an active signal by the beetles, but a passive cue resulting from microorganisms during host colonisation. In this context, we advocate to recognise a bark beetle and its microbiome as an entity (‘holobiont’), to better understand temporal release patterns and deduce the specific function of verbenone for a given species. Surprisingly, natural enemies are not commonly attracted by verbenone, but more taxa need to be studied. A better understanding of the ecological functions of verbenone will help to make verbenone-based tools more effective and improve integrated pest management strategies.
Landslides in the Remolinos gypsum escarpment (NE Spain): controls imposed by stratigraphy, fluvial erosion, and interstratal salt dissolution
Authors: Gutiérrez Francisco , Sevil Jorge , Migoń Piotr
Published: May 2023

Dissolution of karst rocks (evaporites and carbonates) can cause significant mechanical weakening, but its preparatory role for landslide development has been scarcely explored. Fluvial valleys carved in gypsum bedrock typically display prominent escarpments with numerous landslides and perched valleys indicative of rapid retreat rate. The stratigraphic and cartographic analysis of the 37-km-long Remolinos gypsum escarpment in the Ebro Valley (NE Spain) reveals that landslide types are controlled by the lithological succession: (1) rotational slides in sections with mudstones and marls at the base; (2) rock-slope collapses (massive rock-falls) where the cliff includes halite packages at the foot; and (3) relatively small rock-falls and topples being the main failures affecting cliffs entirely made by gypsum. Fluvial undercutting by the highly mobile Ebro River is the main process that controls the spatial and temporal distribution of slope instability. Geomorphic and chronological evidence supports that the abandonment in 1574 of the El Castellar village was at least partially motivated by a shift in the river channel toward the escarpment and the consequent landslide activity. Several lines of evidence support the concept whereby interstratal salt dissolution (halite and glauberite), here designated as subsurface solutional undermining, play a significant preparatory role for landslide development: (1) dissolution of salt close to the scarp by the inward advance of dissolution fronts and subsidence of the overlying strata; (2) collapsed fault blocks with no offset across the grabens; and (3) brine seepages and extensive efflorescences and precipitates of Na-sulfates and halite.
Prevalence and clinical correlates of ascending aortic dilatation in patients with noncompaction cardiomyopathy
Authors: Tukker Martijn , Leening Maarten J.G. , Mohamedhoesein Sharida , Vanmaele Alexander L.A. , Caliskan Kadir
Published: May 2023

Ascending aortic (AoAsc) dilatation can lead to acute aortic syndromes and has been described in various familial cardiac diseases. Its prevalence and clinical significance in patients with noncompaction cardiomyopathy (NCCM) are however unknown. Establishing the prevalence can facilitate recommendations on routine screening in NCCM. In this cross-sectional cohort study based on the Rijnmond Heart Failure/Cardiomyopathy Registry, the patient were enrolment between 2014 and 2021. All NCCM patients (n = 109) were age and sex matched with 109 dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) patients as controls. The aortic diameters were measured through the parasternal long-axis transthoracic echocardiographic view at the sinuses of valsalva (SoV-Ao), sinotubular junction (STJ) and ascending aorta (AscAo). Dilatation was defined using published criteria adjusted for body surface area (BSA), sex, and age. Median age of age-sex matched NCCM and DCM patients was 45[31–56] vs. 45 [31–55] years with 53% males in both groups. NCCM patients had more familial hereditary patterns and genetic variants (55% vs. 24%, p < 0.001). DCM patients had more heart failure and left ventricular dysfunction (ejection fraction 34 ± 11 vs. 41 ± 12, p = 0.001). Ascending aortic dilatation was present in 8(7%) patients with NCCM and 5(5%) patients with DCM (p = 0.46). All dilatations were classified as mild. In conclusion, in this cross-sectional cohort study the prevalence of ascending aortic dilatation in NCCM patients was 7%, which were only mild dilatations and not significantly different from an age-sex matched cohort of DCM patients. Routine aortic dilatation screening therefore does not seem warranted in patients with NCCM.
Economic zones and local income inequality: Evidence from Indonesia
Authors: Hornok Cecília , Raeskyesa Dewa Gede Sidan
Published: May 2023

Economic zones can be powerful drivers of economic growth in developing countries. However, less is known about their distributional impact on the local society. This paper provides empirical evidence from Indonesian provinces on the relationship between economic zones and within-province income inequality. We apply fixed-effects panel estimation to province-level data for the whole of Indonesia, which we then complement with separate studies on the opening of three economic zones in three provinces using the synthetic control method. The results suggest that the above relationship is positive overall. The estimated rise in income inequality after a zone opens is, however, relatively small on average and may be short-lived. Moreover, the average estimate masks large regional differences, which suggests that the inequality implications of economic zone policies depend on local conditions. One possible explanation for the rise in inequality is that the unskilled population benefits disproportionately less from the policy.
Application of thermal methods in the studies of potential pozzolanic reactivity of attapulgite and sepiolite
Authors: Malata G. , Tkaczewska E.
Published: May 2023

Aim of study was to verify the effect of temperature on the pozzolanic reactivity of thermally activated attapulgite and sepiolite samples. Activation temperatures were selected: 650, 700 and 750 °C for attapulgite and 800, 825 and 850 °C for sepiolite. Content of pozzolanic reactive SiO2 and Al2O3 after thermal treatment and the amount of Ca(OH)2 consumed in the pozzolanic reaction were measured. It should be noted that a higher activation temperature improves the reactivity of attapulgite and sepiolite. The upper limit for the increase in the pozzolanic reactivity of these materials is the formation of enstatite and the deactivation of silica. In addition to reactive decomposition products, series of minerals formed in the reactions of attapulgite and sepiolite with impurities present in them are also observed.
Denoising approach with deep learning-based reconstruction for neuromelanin-sensitive MRI: image quality and diagnostic performance
Authors: Oshima Sonoko , Fushimi Yasutaka , Miyake Kanae Kawai , Nakajima Satoshi , Sakata Akihiko , Okuchi Sachi , Hinoda Takuya , Otani Sayo , Numamoto Hitomi , Fujimoto Koji , Shima Atsushi , Nambu Masahito , Sawamoto Nobukatsu , Takahashi Ryosuke , Ueno Kentaro , Saga Tsuneo , Nakamoto Yuji
Published: May 2023

Purpose

Neuromelanin-sensitive MRI (NM-MRI) has proven useful for diagnosing Parkinson’s disease (PD) by showing reduced signals in the substantia nigra (SN) and locus coeruleus (LC), but requires a long scan time. The aim of this study was to assess the image quality and diagnostic performance of NM-MRI with a shortened scan time using a denoising approach with deep learning-based reconstruction (dDLR).

Materials and methods

We enrolled 22 healthy volunteers, 22 non-PD patients and 22 patients with PD who underwent NM-MRI, and performed manual ROI-based analysis. Signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) in ten healthy volunteers were compared among images with a number of excitations (NEX) of 1 (NEX1), NEX1 images with dDLR (NEX1 + dDLR) and 5-NEX images (NEX5). Acquisition times for NEX1 and NEX5 were 3 min 12 s and 15 min 58 s, respectively. Diagnostic performances using the contrast ratio (CR) of the SN (CR_SN) and LC (CR_LC) and those by visual assessment for differentiating PD from non-PD were also compared between NEX1 and NEX1 + dDLR.

Results

Image quality analyses revealed that SNRs and CNRs of the SN and LC in NEX1 + dDLR were significantly higher than in NEX1, and comparable to those in NEX5. In diagnostic performance analysis, areas under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) using CR_SN and CR_LC of NEX1 + dDLR were 0.87 and 0.75, respectively, which had no significant difference with those of NEX1. Visual assessment showed improvement of diagnostic performance by applying dDLR.

Conclusion

Image quality for NEX1 + dDLR was comparable to that of NEX5. dDLR has the potential to reduce scan time of NM-MRI without degrading image quality. Both 1-NEX NM-MRI with and without dDLR showed high AUCs for diagnosing PD by CR. The results of visual assessment suggest advantages of dDLR. Further tuning of dDLR would be expected to provide clinical merits in diagnosing PD.
Global Mental Health: Where We Are and Where We Are Going
Authors: Moitra Modhurima , Owens Shanise , Hailemariam Maji , Wilson Katherine S. , Mensa-Kwao Augustina , Gonese Gloria , Kamamia Christine K. , White Belinda , Young Dorraine M. , Collins Pamela Y.
Published: May 2023

Purpose of Review

To summarize recent findings in global mental health along several domains including socioeconomic determinants, inequities, funding, and inclusion in global mental health research and practice.

Recent Findings

Mental illness continues to disproportionately impact vulnerable populations and treatment coverage continues to be low globally. Advances in integrating mental health care and adopting task-shifting are accompanied by implementation challenges. The mental health impact of recent global events such as the COVID-19 pandemic, geo-political events, and environmental change is likely to persist and require coordinated care approaches for those in need of psychosocial support. Inequities also exist in funding for global mental health and there has been gradual progress in terms of building local capacity for mental health care programs and research. Lastly, there is an increasing effort to include people with lived experiences of mental health in research and policy shaping efforts.

The field of global mental health will likely continue to be informed by evidence and perspectives originating increasingly from low- and middle-income countries along with ongoing global events and centering of relevant stakeholders.
Holmium and Thulium Fiber Laser Safety in Endourological Practice: What Does the Clinician Need to Know?
Authors: Juliebø-Jones Patrick , Somani Bhaskar K. , Gjengstø Peder , Æsøy Mathias Sørstrand , Beisland Christian , Ulvik Øyvind
Published: May 2023

Purpose of Review

To summarise the literature on laser safety during endourological practice.

Recent Findings

Holmium and Thulium Fiber laser are the two main energy sources in the current clinical practice. The latter may have superior properties, but more clinical studies are needed to formally establish this. Laser injury to urothelium is more dependent on user experience rather than laser type. Smaller laser fibres allow for lower intra-renal temperature profiles. Operators should pay close attention to laser technique including maintaining the safety distance concept and only firing the laser when tip is clearly in view. When adjusting laser settings, pay close attention to resultant power given the associated heat changes. Prolonged periods of laser activation are to be avoided for the same reason. Outflow can be manipulated such as with access sheath to mitigate temperature and pressure changes. There is still limited evidence to support the mandate for compulsory use of eye protection wear during laser lithotripsy.

Lasers are the gold standard energy source for stone lithotripsy. However, the safe clinical application of this technology requires an understanding of core principles as well as awareness of the safety and technical aspects that can help in protecting patient, surgeon and operating staff.
Automated detection of inorganic powders in X-ray images of airport luggage
Authors: Vukadinovic Danijela , Osés Miguel Ruiz , Anderson David
Published: May 2023

At the checkpoint, the detection of illicit inorganic powders in passenger luggage using conventional X-ray can be challenging. An algorithm is presented for the automated detection of inorganic powder-like substances from complex X-ray images of highly cluttered passenger bags using computer vision. The proposed method utilizes support vector machine (SVM) classifiers built from local binary patterns (LBP) texture features. When tested on a dataset created in-house, the algorithm achieves a detection precision of 97% and a false positive rate of 3%. This is the first study performed on a realistic dataset, including different amounts and shapes of powders and electronic clutter, and where the success of the automated method is compared with inter-observer variability.
Versteckte Vielfalt: Diversität von Zellen im industriellen Bioprozess
Authors: Arulrajah Prasika , Heins Anna-Lena
Published: May 2023

Population heterogeneity poses a major challenge in industrial scale bioprocesses, affecting process performance but also leading to more robust phenotypes. To investigate this phenomenon, multiple fluorescent reporter strains are cultivated under simulated industrial scale conditions in multi-compartment bioreactors. This approach significantly raises the quantitative understanding of population heterogenity which is needed before its benefits can help to develop high-yielding, more robust bioprocesses.
Markierung und Identifikation von Protein-Mikroumgebungen in Pilzen
Authors: Hollstein Lucas S. , Schmitt Kerstin , Stahlhut Gertrud , Valerius Oliver , Pöggeler Stefanie
Published: May 2023

The proximity-dependent biotin identification (BioID) method allows the in vivo examination of molecular environments of proteins. The methodology is based on the labeling of proteins with biotin that are proximal to a protein of interest, followed by affinity purification and identification via mass spectrometry. This article describes the application of BioID in fungi.
Proteomdynamik im Gefäßsystem von Pflanzen
Authors: Kasper Karl Henrik , Polle Andrea
Published: May 2023

In higher plants, the xylem, which is crucial for water and nutrient transport, also contains a diverse proteome. The composition of the xylem sap proteome responds dynamically to changes in environmental conditions. Important functions are maintenance of structural integrity and defense against invading pathogens. Knowledge on signals that trigger proteomic changes is scarce. Better understanding of these processes may contribute to improve plant performance in a changing climate.
Grüne Zellfabriken – Mikroalgen für die nachhaltige Bioproduktion
Authors: Einhaus Alexander , Baier Thomas , Kruse Olaf
Published: May 2023

Microalgal biotechnology promises a sustainable production of valuable bioproducts. Thanks to their photosynthetic nature, they are able to convert atmospheric CO2 into various products, ranging from simple biomass, platform chemicals for bioplastics to high value compounds for the pharmaceutical and fragrance industry. Here we present important improvements for engineering strategies to advance microalgae as green cell factories for the production of valuable bioproducts.
Anticancer efficacy of hirsuteine against colorectal cancer by opposite modulation of wild-type and mutant p53
Authors: Zhang Yan , Guo Tingting , Li Shurong , Ren Zehao , Gao Shan , Lu Hao , Ma Xuelan , Liu Donghui , Liu Yao , Kong Dexin , Qiu Yuling
Published: May 2023

Purpose

The present study aimed to explore the anticancer activity of hirsuteine (HST), an indole alkaloid from the traditional Chinese herbal medicine Uncaria rhynchophylla, against colorectal cancer (CRC) and the underlining mechanism.

Methods

MTT, colony formation, flow cytometry and MDC staining were conducted to confirm the antiproliferative effect of HST on human CRC cells harboring different p53 status. Protein expressions were evaluated by the Western blot analysis. p53 protein half-life and the interaction between p53 and MDM2 were investigated using cycloheximide (CHX)-chase assay and Co-immunoprecipitation (Co-IP), respectively. Transcriptional activity of p53 was examined by qRT-PCR and Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP). Xenograft tumor in nude mice was created to evaluate in vivo anticancer effect of HST against CRC.

Results

HST inhibited cell growth, arrested cell cycle and induced autophagy, showing efficient anticancer effects on CRC cells independent of p53 status. In HCT-8 cells, HST prolonged wtp53 half-life, and upregulated mRNA level of p21, suggesting that HST activated the p53 pathway through enhancement of wtp53 stability and transcriptional activity. Meanwhile in SW620 cells, HST induced MDM2-mediated proteasomal degradation of mutp53R273H, increased the DNA-binding ability of mutp53R273H at the p21 promoter, and upregulated mRNA levels of p21 and MDM2, demonstrating the depletion of mutp53R273H and restoration of its wild-type-like properties by HST. p53 knockdown by siRNA significantly impaired the growth inhibition of HST on HCT-8 and SW620 cells. Moreover, HST showed anticancer effects in xenograft tumors, accompanied with an opposite regulation of wtp53 and mutp53 R273H in mechanism.

Conclusion

This study revealed the anticancer efficacy of HST against CRC via opposite modulation of wtp53 and mutp53 R273H, indicating the potential of HST to be a CRC drug candidate targeting p53 signaling.
Assessment of the activity of the mbalmayo thermal power plant on groundwater quality
Authors: Goune A. C. , Seutche J. C. , Ekani R. Y. , Essombo B. E. , Nsouandele J. L. , Ben-bolie G. H.
Published: May 2023

Groundwater is essential for daily life in Cameroon, but pollution sources can harm its quality through infiltration and dispersal of contaminants in the ground. This study focuses on estimating groundwater quality near the Mbalmayo Thermal Power Plant using a predictive model combining genetic algorithms and neural networks. The genetic algorithms were used to optimize the objective function, while neural networks learned the data to predict concentration values. From January 2017 to December 2021, several moisture content values were experimentally determined using collected dried and weighed soil samples. The results showed that moisture content varied from 1 to 82%. During this study period, the model takes into account the water content of the soil, porosity and permeability which have the same effect on the concentration level of the fuel oil in the groundwater. The average concentration of fuel oil was below 50 mg/l, which is the World Health Organisation standard However, there is a risk of groundwater pollution by fuel oil in the event of heavy activity at the Mbalmayo thermal power plant in the 0-445 m range. For protection during this period, the results show that the installation of populations on a perimeter located beyond 445 m and the construction of a water purification station are recommended. The results are decision support tools for the authorities.
DownScaleBench for developing and applying a deep learning based urban climate downscaling- first results for high-resolution urban precipitation climatology over Austin, Texas
Authors: Singh Manmeet , Acharya Nachiketa , Jamshidi Sajad , Jiao Junfeng , Yang Zong-Liang , Coudert Marc , Baumer Zach , Niyogi Dev
Published: May 2023

Cities need climate information to develop resilient infrastructure and for adaptation decisions. The information desired is at the order of magnitudes finer scales relative to what is typically available from climate analysis and future projections. Urban downscaling refers to developing such climate information at the city (order of 1 – 10 km) and neighborhood (order of 0.1 – 1 km) resolutions from coarser climate products. Developing these higher resolution (finer grid spacing) data needed for assessments typically covering multiyear climatology of past data and future projections is complex and computationally expensive for traditional physics-based dynamical models. In this study, we develop and adopt a novel approach for urban downscaling by generating a general-purpose operator using deep learning. This ‘DownScaleBench’ tool can aid the process of downscaling to any location. The DownScaleBench has been generalized for both in situ (ground- based) and satellite or reanalysis gridded data. The algorithm employs an iterative super-resolution convolutional neural network (Iterative SRCNN) over the city. We apply this for the development of a high-resolution gridded precipitation product (300 m) from a relatively coarse (10 km) satellite-based product (JAXA GsMAP). The high-resolution gridded precipitation datasets is compared against insitu observations for past heavy rain events over Austin, Texas, and shows marked improvement relative to the coarser datasets relative to cubic interpolation as a baseline. The creation of this Downscaling Bench has implications for generating high-resolution gridded urban meteorological datasets and aiding the planning process for climate-ready cities.
Three Cu (II)-hydrazone complexes: synthesis, physicochemical characteristics, stability, thermal analysis, and investigation of metal and iodine absorption
Authors: Alzharani Ahmed A.
Published: May 2023

A three Schiff bases; Lhy, Lme, and Lph, as well as their CuLhy, CuLme, and CuLph complexes, were synthesized, and their physicochemical properties were investigated. Vibrational spectra proposed that the hydrazone ligands reacted as neutral tridentate chelator with NNO chelating centers to the Cu(II) ion via azomethine-N, Isatin-carbonyl, and pyridine-N forming the general formulae [Cu(L)2]Cl2 nH2O, where L = neutral tridentate Isatin-hydrazone ligand (L = Lhy, (CuLhy); L = Lme, (CuLme); L = Lph, (CuLph)). TG/DTA analyses have shown that there is at least one water molecule in each of the complexes. The spectrophotometric method was used to calculate the stoichiometry and thermodynamic characteristics of the metal complexes. By using density functional theory (DFT) techniques, the 3D structure of the produced complexes was verified. Based on an investigation of the electronic structural configurations of the complexes, calculations verified the predicted structure and clarified the nature of the chemical reactivity. Cu(II) adsorption from aqueous solutions onto ligands was investigated in a number of different settings. The influence of the initial metal concentration (10–100 ppm), the weight of the hydrazone ligands (0.1–1.0 gm), and the contact period (1–2 h) were all investigated as potential moderators of the uptake behavior. In just three hours, equilibrium had been reached thanks to the speedy adsorption process. An initial pH of ≈ 6–8 with a metal ion concentration of 80 ppm was found to be optimal. Iodine (I2) uptake behavior of hydrazone ligands was also studied using spectroscopy. In the first 8 h, hydrazone ligands exhibited high adsorption efficiency (E, %), which gradually declined until equilibrium was achieved after 25 h.

Graphical abstract
PneuPrint: 3D printing on inflatables
Authors: Lin Che Wei , Mattei Gabriele , Cheibas Ina , Du Chaoyu , Aejmelaeus-Lindström Petrus , Gramazio Fabio
Published: May 2023

This research investigated the feasibility of thermoplastic 3D printing on inflatable membranes. Five experiments were performed in an iterative process through design and manufacture (1), computational simulation and 3D scanning (2), and robotic fabrication on the pneumatic formwork (3). These experiments ranged from small to large-scale 3D printing. Experiment 1 demonstrated the small-scale feasibility of the process and the need to integrate an air-pressure control loop. Experiment 2 investigated the technique transfer from small to large-scale. Experiment 3 analyzed the deviation and shape accuracy of the inflatable membrane. Experiment 4 identified the required fabrication settings and compatibility between the membrane and the 3D printing material. Finally, Experiment 5 demonstrated the design and fabrication potential of large-scale 3D printed elements on pneumatic formworks. The results proved high potential for building freeform design elements for architectural applications on pneumatic formworks.
A parametric study and performance investigation of thermoelectric refrigeration system using computational fluid dynamics
Authors: N Rudresha , M Vijay Kumar , Math Mahantesh M.
Published: May 2023

Global commercial market forecasted around 45 billion US dollars for refrigeration equipment in 2021. Currently used refrigerants have high global warming potential (GWP); hence, environment-friendly refrigeration system using the Peltier effect is being considered for this research. The thermodynamic refrigeration system has a low coefficient of performance (COP), when compared to chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) and hydrofluorocarbon (HCFC) refrigeration systems. The design of various models of the thermoelectric refrigerator (TER) is created using ANSYS workbench. Each new design is analysed with computational fluid dynamics (CFD) analysis tool by altering insulating materials such as nickel with aluminium foil and polyurethane foam in airflow streamline of thermoelectric refrigeration. Temperature differences obtained between 7.5 and 9.4 °C are tabulated after each run using the finite volume method. Optimization of inner design and insulation material is done by using computational fluid dynamics analysis in the ANSYS FLUENT software. The results of sharp edge design have proved better when compared to partially round edge design and fillet design, 7.85 °C for the cold region and 54.85 °C for the hot region. Further research is expected using the multistage Peltier module and smart temperature control unit to improve the COP of the TER system.
Aetiology of Acute Undifferentiated Fever Among Children Under the Age of Five in Vietnam: A Prospective Study
Authors: Tran Xuan Duong , Hoang Van Thuan , Dang Thi Thuy Duong , Vu Thi Phuong , To Minh Manh , Tran Trong Kiem , Do Manh Dung , Nguyen Duy Cuong , Nguyen Quoc Tien , Colson Philippe , Parola Philippe , Marty Pierre , Gautret Philippe
Published: May 2023

Background

To investigate the aetiology of acute undifferentiated fever (AUF) among children under the age of five in Vietnam.

Methods

This prospective study was conducted in the Thai Binh paediatric hospital, between July 2020 and July 2021 among children with AUF at admission. Real-time PCR testing 18 microbial pathogens were done on blood samples.

Results

286 children were included, with median age of 16 months. 64.7% were male. 53.9% were positive for at least one pathogen by PCR. Enterovirus, human herpesvirus 6, adenovirus, and varicella zoster virus PCR were positive for 31.1, 12.6, 1.4, and 1.0% patients, respectively. Other pathogens tested negative by PCR. During the hospital stay, based on clinical criteria 47.2% children secondarily presented with signs of respiratory tract infections, 18.9% had hand, foot and mouth disease, 4.6% had chickenpox. 4.2% presented signs of central nervous system infections, 1.0% had dengue (antigenic test) and 1.0% had signs of gastrointestinal infection. Finally, 23.1% patients presented a fever with or without a rash and no other symptoms and ultimately received a diagnosis of AUF.

Conclusion

Real-time PCR of blood is useful for detecting pathogens and diagnosing infectious causes of AUF. Further prospective studies with blood and urine culture testing and PCR investigation of not only blood but also cerebrospinal fluid, throat, and skin samples according to symptoms would be of interest to confirm the predominance of viral infections in children with AUF and to guide therapeutic options.
Dysfunctional schema modes as determinants of psychiatric comorbidities: a study in a cohort of people with epilepsy
Authors: Shafique Nadia , Arafat S.M. Yasir , Siddiqui Fowzia , Malik W.T. , Hallahan Brian , Khalily Muhammad Tahir
Published: May 2023

Introduction and Aims:

Symptomatology of epilepsy and its’ associated alteration in brain processes, stigma of experiencing seizures, and adverse sequelae of anti-epileptics have been demonstrated to impact behaviour and exacerbate psychopathology. This study examines the role of dysfunctional schema modes in People with Epilepsy (PWE) and their association with psychiatric symptoms.

Methods:

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 108 PWE treated with anti-epileptics for at least one year and with no history or mental disorder or psycho-active substance use. Clinical symptoms were measured utilising the Symptom Checklist-90 (SCL-90) with schema modes measured utilising the Schema Mode Inventory (SMI).

Results:

Maladaptive coping and child schema modes were significantly higher in individuals from lower socio-economic status group (p < 0.01), with several maladaptive schema modes more prevalent in males. Hostility symptoms were increased in individuals from lower socio-economic classes and were more prevalent early in disease course. Several psychological symptoms including somatisation, interpersonal, obsession, depression, paranoia, hostility, phobia, anxiety, and psychoticism, were predicted by various maladaptive schema modes (p < 0.001).

Conclusion:

This study highlights the impact of maladaptive schemas, suggesting that PWE might benefit from the introduction of appropriate psychotherapeutic interventions such as schema-focused therapy, particularly if from lower socio-economic classes or in the early stages of theirdisease course.
Bilingual profiles differentially predict executive functions during early childhood: A latent profile analysis
Authors: Yang Hwajin , Tng Germaine Y. Q. , Ng Wee Qin , Yang Sujin
Published: May 2023

Recent studies suggest that heterogeneous bilingual experiences implicate different executive functions (EF) in children. Using a latent profile analysis, we conducted a more nuanced investigation of multifaceted bilingual experiences. By concurrently considering numerous bilingual indicators – age of L1 and L2 acquisition, interactional contexts of verbal exchanges, L1 and L2 proficiency, balance of language use at home and school, and receptive vocabulary – we identified three latent profiles (subgroups): balanced dual-language, dominant single-language, and mixed-interaction. We found that the balanced dual-language and dominant single-language profiles predicted significantly better switching than the mixed-interaction profile. However, no profile differences were found in working memory, prepotent response inhibition, or inhibitory control. These results held true when multiple covariates (age, sex, household income, and nonverbal intelligence) were controlled for. Using a person-centered approach, our study underscores that disparate bilingual experiences asymmetrically predict the shifting facet of EF during early childhood.
Dosimetric evaluation of VMAT treatment plans for patients with stage IIB or III non-small cell lung carcinomas
Authors: Shaaer Amani , Osei Ernest , Darko Johnson , Gopaul Darin
Published: May 2023

Introduction:

Volumetric-modulated arc therapy (VMAT) has emerged as a promising radiation treatment technique. One of the challenges in VMAT planning for lung carcinoma is the lack of consistency among different institutions with respect to what is considered an acceptable treatment plan in terms of target coverage and doses to the organs at risk (OAR). Additionally, the accuracy of dose calculations in the presence of heterogeneous medium (i.e. air) is another challenge in lung VMAT planning. Our objective is to develop an institutional criteria for non-stereotactic body radiotherapy (non-SBRT) lung treatment plans by evaluating the dosimetric impact of plan normalisation and dose calculation algorithms, including the Anisotropic Analytical Algorithm (AAA), AcurosXB (AXB) and Monte Carlo (MC) simulation, on VMAT plans for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

Methods:

The CT dataset of 20 patients with NSCLC was randomly selected to ensure a spectrum of target sizes and locations. All treatment planning was accomplished with 2–3 VMAT arcs and a prescription of 60 Gy in 30 fractions. Two plan normalisation methods were employed: (i) planning target volume (PTV) V100% = 95% and (ii) PTV V95% = 95%.

Results:

All three dose calculation algorithms revealed heterogeneous and conformal plans irrespective of plan normalisations. The PTV and OARs dose–volume constraints were met using both normalisation methods. However, we observed that AAA overestimated the minimum PTV doses by 2–5% regardless of plan normalisation. The mean PTV-V100% was lower for AAA in comparison with AXB and MC algorithms.

Conclusions:

VMAT is an effective radiotherapy technique for achieving greater target dose conformity, heterogeneity and dose fall-off from the PTV for the treatment of NSCLC. The results of this study can provide the basis for the development of local plan acceptability criteria for NSCLC VMAT plans, and the clinical implementation can be achieved with minimal or no imposition on resources and time constraints. Occasionally, plan normalisation of PTV-V95% = 95% may be required to ensure that the OAR dose tolerances are not exceeded.
Self-Determined Intention to Vote and the Mediating Role of Politicized Identification
Authors: Pistoni Carlo , Ellena Adriano Mauro , Aresi Giovanni , Marta Elena , Pozzi Maura
Published: May 2023

Abstract. This study tested the Politicized Identification Model of Intention to Vote as an integrated model of political participation and self-determination theory to understand what motivates young people to vote and inform policy and communication efforts. The results of path analyses on survey data from a representative sample of 1,960 young Italians (age range, 20–35 years) revealed that participative efficacy positively and negatively predicted internalized motivation and amotivation, respectively. In addition, politicized identification mediated the positive relation between the internalized motivations and intention to vote. Finally, amotivation negatively predicted voting intention. Civic education campaigns should promote young people’s awareness that they can contribute to society by voting (i.e., participative efficacy) and support internalized motivations to vote.
The Intrinsic 150‐Day Periodicity of the Southern Hemisphere Extratropical Large‐Scale Atmospheric Circulation
Authors: Lubis Sandro W. , Hassanzadeh Pedram
Published: May 2023

The variability of the Southern Hemisphere (SH) extratropical large‐scale circulation is dominated by the Southern Annular Mode (SAM), whose timescale is extensively used as a key metric in evaluating state‐of‐the‐art climate models. Past observational and theoretical studies suggest that the SAM lacks any internally generated (intrinsic) periodicity. Here, we show, using observations and a climate model hierarchy, that the SAM has an intrinsic 150‐day periodicity. This periodicity is robustly detectable in the power spectra and principal oscillation patterns (aka dynamical mode decomposition) of the zonal‐mean circulation, and in hemispheric‐scale precipitation and ocean surface wind stress. The 150‐day period is consistent with the predictions of a new reduced‐order model for the SAM, which suggests that this periodicity is associated with a complex interaction of turbulent eddies and zonal wind anomalies, as the latter propagate from low to high latitudes. These findings present a rare example of periodic oscillations arising from the internal dynamics of the extratropical turbulent circulations. Based on these findings, we further propose a new metric for evaluating climate models, and show that some of the previously reported shortcomings and improvements in simulating SAM's variability connect to the models' ability in reproducing this periodicity. We argue that this periodicity should be considered in evaluating climate models and understanding the past, current, and projected Southern Hemisphere climate variability.
Investigating Surface Deformation and Its Intrinsic Mechanism in Shenzhen, China Using Sentinel‐1A SAR Imagery
Authors: Zhou Lv , Liu Suoge , Li Jiahao , Pan Yuanjin , Wang Cheng , Huang Liangke , Huang Ling
Published: May 2023

To avoid disasters caused by surface deformation in urban areas, monitoring and analyzing the mechanism of surface deformation in urban areas on a large scale and in long‐term series is mandatory. Based on PS‐InSAR technology and using 157 Sentinel‐1A images, the surface deformation in Shenzhen was monitored from 2015 to 2022, and the obtained deformation rate ranged from −22.8 to +23.2 mm/year. In this paper, analysis is presented by integrating urbanization, climate, and geology data from Shenzhen. The analysis indicates that surface deformation caused by natural factors is typically observed in regions with unique geological characteristics, such as seasonal deformation in sedimentary areas and uplift along reverse fault zones. Human factors chiefly cause subsidence, and the areas with greater subsidence are generally urbanized areas (∼10 mm/year), industrial areas (∼20 mm/year), and reclamation areas (∼15 mm/year). The deformation of the reservoir dam is subject to multiple factors. The differential subsidence of 2–8 mm/year at both ends is due to the engineering geological conditions. In comparison, the weak rotation with a linear velocity of 18 mm/year is due to hydrostatic pressure and its structural characteristics. The research results of this paper systematically explore the phenomena and the intrinsic mechanism of surface deformation in Shenzhen, providing a safety basis for urban development and emergency disaster prevention in Shenzhen.
Micromechanical interlocking structure at the filler/resin interface for dental composites: a review
Authors: Zhang Shuning , Wang Xiao , Yang Jiawei , Chen Hongyan , Jiang Xinquan
Published: May 2023

Dental resin composites (DRCs) are popular materials for repairing caries or dental defect, requiring excellent properties to cope with the complex oral environment. Filler/resin interface interaction has a significant impact on the physicochemical/biological properties and service life of DRCs. Various chemical and physical modification methods on filler/resin interface have been introduced and studied, and the physical micromechanical interlocking caused by the modification of fillers morphology and structure is a promising method. This paper firstly introduces the composition and development of DRCs, then reviews the chemical and physical modification methods of the filler/resin interface, mainly discusses the interface micromechanical interlocking structures and their enhancement mechanism for DRCs, finally give a summary on the existing problems and development potential.
Acute effects of MDMA and LSD co-administration in a double-blind placebo-controlled study in healthy participants
Authors: Straumann Isabelle , Ley Laura , Holze Friederike , Becker Anna M. , Klaiber Aaron , Wey Kathrin , Duthaler Urs , Varghese Nimmy , Eckert Anne , Liechti Matthias E.
Published: May 2023

There is renewed interest in the use of lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) in psychiatric research and practice. Although acute subjective effects of LSD are mostly positive, negative subjective effects, including anxiety, may occur. The induction of overall positive acute subjective effects is desired in psychedelic-assisted therapy because positive acute experiences are associated with greater therapeutic long-term benefits. 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) produces marked positive subjective effects and is used recreationally with LSD, known as “candyflipping.” The present study investigated whether the co-administration of MDMA can be used to augment acute subjective effects of LSD. We used a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, crossover design with 24 healthy subjects (12 women, 12 men) to compare the co-administration of MDMA (100 mg) and LSD (100 µg) with MDMA and LSD administration alone and placebo. Outcome measures included subjective, autonomic, and endocrine effects and pharmacokinetics. MDMA co-administration with LSD did not change the quality of acute subjective effects compared with LSD alone. However, acute subjective effects lasted longer after LSD + MDMA co-administration compared with LSD and MDMA alone, consistent with higher plasma concentrations of LSD (Cmax and area under the curve) and a longer plasma elimination half-life of LSD when MDMA was co-administered. The LSD + MDMA combination increased blood pressure, heart rate, and pupil size more than LSD alone. Both MDMA alone and the LSD + MDMA combination increased oxytocin levels more than LSD alone. Overall, the co-administration of MDMA (100 mg) did not improve acute effects or the safety profile of LSD (100 µg). The combined use of MDMA and LSD is unlikely to provide relevant benefits over LSD alone in psychedelic-assisted therapy. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT04516902.
Structure and transport mechanism of the human calcium pump SPCA1
Authors: Wu Mengqi , Wu Cang , Song Tiefeng , Pan Kewu , Wang Yong , Liu Zhongmin
Published: May 2023

Secretory-pathway Ca2+-ATPases (SPCAs) play critical roles in maintaining Ca2+ homeostasis, but the exact mechanism of SPCAs-mediated Ca2+ transport remains unclear. Here, we determined six cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) structures of human SPCA1 (hSPCA1) in a series of intermediate states, revealing a near-complete conformational cycle. With the aid of molecular dynamics simulations, these structures offer a clear structural basis for Ca2+ entry and release in hSPCA1. We found that hSPCA1 undergoes unique conformational changes during ATP binding and phosphorylation compared to other well-studied P-type II ATPases. In addition, we observed a conformational distortion of the Ca2+-binding site induced by the separation of transmembrane helices 4L and 6, unveiling a distinct Ca2+ release mechanism. Particularly, we determined a structure of the long-sought CaE2P state of P-type IIA ATPases, providing valuable insights into the Ca2+ transport cycle. Together, these findings enhance our understanding of Ca2+ transport by hSPCA1 and broaden our knowledge of P-type ATPases.
An injectable liposome-anchored teriparatide incorporated gallic acid-grafted gelatin hydrogel for osteoarthritis treatment
Authors: Li Guoqing , Liu Su , Chen Yixiao , Zhao Jin , Xu Huihui , Weng Jian , Yu Fei , Xiong Ao , Udduttula Anjaneyulu , Wang Deli , Liu Peng , Chen Yingqi , Zeng Hui
Published: May 2023

Intra-articular injection of therapeutics is an effective strategy for treating osteoarthritis (OA), but it is hindered by rapid drug diffusion, thereby necessitating high-frequency injections. Hence, the development of a biofunctional hydrogel for improved delivery is required. In this study, we introduce a liposome-anchored teriparatide (PTH (1–34)) incorporated into a gallic acid-grafted gelatin injectable hydrogel (GLP hydrogel). We show that the GLP hydrogel can form in situ and without affecting knee motion after intra-articular injection in mice. We demonstrate controlled, sustained release of PTH (1–34) from the GLP hydrogel. We find that the GLP hydrogel promotes ATDC5 cell proliferation and protects the IL-1β-induced ATDC5 cells from further OA progression by regulating the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway. Further, we show that intra-articular injection of hydrogels into an OA-induced mouse model promotes glycosaminoglycans synthesis and protects the cartilage from degradation, supporting the potential of this biomaterial for OA treatment.
In vivo CRISPR screens reveal Serpinb9 and Adam2 as regulators of immune therapy response in lung cancer
Authors: Dervovic Dzana , Malik Ahmad A. , Chen Edward L. Y. , Narimatsu Masahiro , Adler Nina , Afiuni-Zadeh Somaieh , Krenbek Dagmar , Martinez Sebastien , Tsai Ricky , Boucher Jonathan , Berman Jacob M. , Teng Katie , Ayyaz Arshad , Lü YiQing , Mbamalu Geraldine , Loganathan Sampath K. , Lee Jongbok , Zhang Li , Guidos Cynthia , Wrana Jeffrey , Valipour Arschang , Roux Philippe P. , Reimand Jüri , Jackson Hartland W. , Schramek Daniel
Published: May 2023

How the genetic landscape governs a tumor’s response to immunotherapy remains poorly understood. To assess the immune-modulatory capabilities of 573 genes associated with altered cytotoxicity in human cancers, here we perform CRISPR/Cas9 screens directly in mouse lung cancer models. We recover the known immune evasion factors Stat1 and Serpinb9 and identify the cancer testis antigen Adam2 as an immune modulator, whose expression is induced by KrasG12D and further elevated by immunotherapy. Using loss- and gain-of-function experiments, we show that ADAM2 functions as an oncogene by restraining interferon and TNF cytokine signaling causing reduced presentation of tumor-associated antigens. ADAM2 also restricts expression of the immune checkpoint inhibitors PDL1, LAG3, TIGIT and TIM3 in the tumor microenvironment, which might explain why ex vivo expanded and adoptively transferred cytotoxic T-cells show enhanced cytotoxic efficacy in ADAM2 overexpressing tumors. Together, direct in vivo CRISPR/Cas9 screens can uncover genetic alterations that control responses to immunotherapies.