bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Building a model of health technology assessment cooperation: lessons learned from EUnetHTA joint action 3
Authors: Garrett Zoe , Imaz-Iglesia Iñaki , Willemsen Anne
Published: January 2022

Objective

The European Network for Health Technology Assessment (EUnetHTA) was established in 2006. During its final project phase (joint action 3 [JA3]), it undertook an activity to define the scientific and technical principles of a model of health technology assessment (HTA) cooperation in Europe. This policy article presents the key learnings from JA3 partners about developing a model of HTA cooperation.

Methods

There were two phases to the activity: (i) A descriptive phase to describe the elements of HTA cooperation that were already in place in EUnetHTA JA3 and to identify which elements could be improved or were missing. (ii) An analytic phase synthesizing the data collected to identify learnings from the JA3 and to define the scientific and technical principles for a future model of HTA cooperation.

Results

Learnings for developing HTA cooperation were identified in regard to the framework used to support the cooperation, the HTA activities undertaken, the involvement of internal and external actors, managing decision making and the required human resources and support services needed to undertake HTA activities and to coordinate collaboration.

Conclusions

These learnings coming from the experiences of the EUnetHTA JA3 are useful to inform discussions on a European Union regulation for HTA cooperation as well as subsequent work to set up the structures that will be defined in the regulation. The findings also have broader applicability and are relevant to individuals, groups, and organizations setting up HTA programs or establishing their own international collaborations.
Becoming Eusapia: The rise of the “Diva of Scientists”
Authors: Paolo de Ceglia Francesco , Leporiere Lorenzo
Published: January 2022

Argument

Eusapia Palladino (1854-1918) is remembered as one of the most famous mediums in the history of spiritualism. Renowned scientists attended her séances in Europe and in the United States. They often had to admit to being unable to understand the origin of the phenomena produced. Cesare Lombroso, for example, after meeting Eusapia, was converted first to mediumism, then spiritualism. This article will retrace the early stages of her career as a medium and shed light on the way she managed to gain the attention of scientists. It will also show why they chose her as an epistemic object.
The dynamics of songbird ownership and community interconnectedness in Singapore
Authors: CHIOK WEN XUAN , LEE REBECCA Y. Y. , LEE JESSICA G. H. , JAIN ANUJ
Published: January 2022

The practice of keeping birds is a long-held tradition in South-east Asia, including in Singapore. Beyond market surveys that have documented Singapore’s sizeable bird market, there is a compelling need to understand the underlying drivers of demand for songbirds, and how these are influenced by social factors. We conducted semi-structured surveys of 114 songbird owners in Singapore, so as to determine their behaviour, demography, and preferences for owning songbirds and mapped Singapore’s songbird trade network. Forty-four percent of respondents reported to not prefer either wild-caught or captive-bred birds and another 37% preferred captive-bred birds. Over half (51%) did not think that there were any differences in the singing capabilities of the songbird from either source. Influence from family members and close contacts were cited as the most influential motivational factor for bird-keeping. The majority of respondents were middle-aged (77% aged 40 and above), and two-thirds (67%) were of Chinese ethnicity. Purchasing power and socio-economic status were not deemed to be strong considerations for owning songbirds. Neither was songbird ownership regarded as a status symbol, in contrast to parrot ownership in Singapore. Instead, social factors played influential roles in the songbird community, shaping the way owners gather, interact, and trade at bird shops and bird cage hanging spots. This study offers novel insights into the motivations underlying songbird ownership and its complex community linkages. We advocate for conservation interventions to target specific demographic groups that are embedded and influenced by communities so as to promote sustainable trade in songbirds.
Does COVID-19 pose a threat for patients after univentricular palliation? Thrombosis of the Fontan tunnel
Authors: Jičínská Denisa , Jičínský Michal , Koubský Karel
Published: January 2022

A 6-year-old boy, born with hypoplastic left heart syndrome, underwent total cavopulmonary connection and later presented in a significantly deteriorated condition. A CT scan revealed multiple thrombi in the extracardiac conduit, although the patient was maintained on an effective anticoagulant therapy. Further examination revealed anamnestic antibodies suggesting that the patient had gone through a clinically inapparent COVID-19 infection, which we conclude most likely contributed to his hypercoagulable state and led to the formation of significant thrombi impairing the patient’s haemodynamics. The patient underwent a surgical thrombectomy; there were no post-operative thrombotic complications.
Planning ahead: Interpreters predict source language in consecutive interpreting
Authors: Zhao Nan , Chen Xiaocong , Cai Zhenguang G.
Published: January 2022

Interpreters are hypothesized to anticipate the source language (SL) in comprehension and the target language (TL) in production to facilitate timely delivery. In two experiments, we examined whether interpreters make more predictions in SL comprehension in consecutive interpreting than in regular language comprehension and whether such enhanced prediction (if any) is constrained by cognitive resources. Participants were quicker at reading a predictable versus unpredictable critical word and/or following words (e.g.,Without the sunglasses/hat, the sun will hurt your eyes on the beach, whereeyesis the critical word), and the prediction effect was larger when they read to later interpret (into Chinese) than to later recall. The enhanced prediction in reading to interpret disappeared when the cognitive load was high, suggesting that SL prediction in interpreting requires cognitive resources. Our findings suggest that, when cognitive resources allow, interpreters engage in enhanced linguistic prediction in SL comprehension to facilitate the delivery of interpreting.
A Partial Molten Low‐Velocity Layer Atop the Mantle Transition Zone Beneath the Western Junggar: Implication for the Formation of Subduction‐Induced Sub‐Slab Mantle Plume
Authors: Li Guohui , Zhou Yuanze , Ding Lin , Gao Yuan , Bai Ling , Zhang Heng , Hu Le , Pan Zhengyang , Ju Changhui , Zhang Dingding
Published: January 2022

Deep subduction of plate generally could induce a partial molten low‐velocity layer (LVL) atop the mantle transition zone (MTZ) around the subduction zone. But the effects of the LVL to its upper lithosphere are less known, especially at the oceanward direction of subducted slab. Here, we image the seismic velocity structure atop the MTZ by matching the synthetics and the observed triplicated P‐ and SH‐wave waveforms recorded by Xinjiang seismic network from four earthquakes in the southwestern Siberia. Our observations reveal a partial molten LVL atop the MTZ beneath the western Junggar (WJ) in the southwestern Central Asian Orogenic Belt. The SH‐wave velocity drop for the LVL is −5.6% which is larger than −4.4% of the P‐wave when its thickness is 29 km. It is inferred that the subducted Paleo‐Asian oceanic plate induces hydrous MTZ materials underneath the subducted slab to upwell to the upper mantle, and form the partial molten LVL. Combined with previous geophysical and geological results, we propose a new geodynamical process involving the lithosphere and MTZ underneath the subducted slab: the melt in the LVL is likely to upwell through slab window, which could be triggered by mid‐oceanic ridge subduction or self‐sustained buoyancy. This mode could account for the contemporaneous break‐off fossil oceanic plate, ocean island basalts‐type rocks, extensive A‐type granitoids, adakite, and porphyry Cu‐Au in the WJ during the late Carboniferous to early Permian.
The Role of Meteorological Variables and Aerosols in the Transmission of COVID‐19 During Harmattan Season
Authors: Ogunjo S. , Olaniyan O. , Olusegun C.F. , Kayode F. , Okoh D. , Jenkins G.
Published: January 2022

The role of atmospheric parameters and aerosols in the transmission of COVID‐19 within tropical Africa, especially during the harmattan season, has been under‐investigated in published papers. The harmattan season within the West African region is associated with significant dust incursion from the Bodele depression and biomass burning. In this study, the correlation between atmospheric parameters (temperature and humidity) and aerosols with COVID‐19 cases and fatalities within seven locations in tropical Nigeria during the harmattan period was investigated. COVID‐19 infection cases were found to be significantly positively correlated with atmospheric parameters (temperature and humidity) in the southern part of the country while the number of fatalities showed weaker significant correlation with particulate matters only in three locations. The significant correlation values were found to be between 0.22 and 0.48 for particulate matter and −0.19 to −0.32 for atmospheric parameters. Although, temperature and humidity showed negative correlations in some locations, the impact is smaller compared to particulate matter. In December, COVID‐19 cases in all locations showed strong correlation with particulate matter except in Kano State. It is suggested that a reduction in atmospheric particulate matter can be used as a control measure for the spread of COVID‐19.
How a Realistic Magnetosphere Alters the Polarizations of Surface, Fast Magnetosonic, and Alfvén Waves
Authors: Archer M. O. , Southwood D. J. , Hartinger M. D. , Rastaetter L. , Wright A. N.
Published: January 2022

System‐scale magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) waves within Earth's magnetosphere are often understood theoretically using box models. While these have been highly instructive in understanding many fundamental features of the various wave modes present, they neglect the complexities of geospace such as the inhomogeneities and curvilinear geometries present. Here, we show global MHD simulations of resonant waves impulsively excited by a solar wind pressure pulse. Although many aspects of the surface, fast magnetosonic (cavity/waveguide), and Alfvén modes present agree with the box and axially symmetric dipole models, we find some predictions for large‐scale waves are significantly altered in a realistic magnetosphere. The radial ordering of fast mode turning points and Alfvén resonant locations may be reversed even with monotonic wave speeds. Additional nodes along field lines that are not present in the displacement/velocity occur in both the perpendicular and compressional components of the magnetic field. Close to the magnetopause, the perpendicular oscillations of the magnetic field have the opposite handedness to the velocity. Finally, widely used detection techniques for standing waves, both across and along the field, can fail to identify their presence. We explain how all these features arise from the MHD equations when accounting for a non‐uniform background field and propose modified methods that might be applied to spacecraft observations.
The Wave Telescope Technique
Authors: Narita Y. , Glassmeier K.‐H. , Motschmann U.
Published: January 2022

Unambiguous determination of wavevectors (wavelengths and propagation directions) is one of the major challenges of space plasma observations, since conventional wave analysis methods for the single spacecraft data are limited to the time series data analysis and the wave properties are determined as a function of the frequencies in the spacecraft frame. The wave telescope technique overcomes the problem of wavevector determination by making extensive use of the multi‐spacecraft interferometric data. The wave telescope techniques do not assume any wave mode or plasma mode, and is suited to testing for the wave and turbulence theories against the multi‐spacecraft data. This article presents an updated report on the wave telescope technique on the basis of adaptive filtering (Capon's minimum variance projection), the construction of an estimator for the multi‐point magnetic field data, the performance and limits in the wavevector analysis (aliasing and low‐wavenumber behavior), the applications to the Cluster fluxgate magnetometer data (dispersion relations, phase velocity diagrams, propagation pattern, energy spectra, helicities, and higher‐order statistics), and possible extensions of the technique.
Loss of NFE2L3 protects against inflammation-induced colorectal cancer through modulation of the tumor microenvironment
Authors: Saliba James , Coutaud Baptiste , Makhani Kiran , Epstein Roth Noam , Jackson Jennie , Park Joo Yeoun , Gagnon Natascha , Costa Paolo , Jeyakumar Thiviya , Bury Marina , Beauchemin Nicole , Mann Koren K. , Blank Volker
Published: January 2022

We investigated the role of the NFE2L3 transcription factor in inflammation-induced colorectal cancer. Our studies revealed that Nfe2l3−/− mice exhibit significantly less inflammation in the colon, reduced tumor size and numbers, and skewed localization of tumors with a more pronounced decrease of tumors in the distal colon. CIBERSORT analysis of RNA-seq data from normal and tumor tissue predicted a reduction in mast cells in Nfe2l3−/− animals, which was confirmed by toluidine blue staining. Concomitantly, the transcript levels of Il33 and Rab27a, both important regulators of mast cells, were reduced and increased, respectively, in the colorectal tumors of Nfe2l3−/− mice. Furthermore, we validated NFE2L3 binding to the regulatory sequences of the IL33 and RAB27A loci in human colorectal carcinoma cells. Using digital spatial profiling, we found that Nfe2l3−/− mice presented elevated FOXP3 and immune checkpoint markers CTLA4, TIM3, and LAG3, suggesting an increase in Treg counts. Staining for CD3 and FOXP3 confirmed a significant increase in immunosuppressive Tregs in the colon of Nfe2l3−/− animals. Also, Human Microbiome Project (HMP2) data showed that NFE2L3 transcript levels are higher in the rectum of ulcerative colitis patients. The observed changes in the tumor microenvironment provide new insights into the molecular differences regarding colon cancer sidedness. This may be exploited for the treatment of early-onset colorectal cancer as this emerging subtype primarily displays distal/left-sided tumors.
Safety and activity of WX-0593 (Iruplinalkib) in patients with ALK- or ROS1-rearranged advanced non-small cell lung cancer: a phase 1 dose-escalation and dose-expansion trial
Authors: Shi Yuankai , Fang Jian , Hao Xuezhi , Zhang Shucai , Liu Yunpeng , Wang Lin , Chen Jianhua , Hu Yi , Hang Xiaosheng , Li Juan , Liu Chunling , Zhang Yiping , Wang Zhehai , Hu Yanping , Gu Kangsheng , Huang Jian’an , Zhang Liangming , Shan Jinlu , Ouyang Weiwei , Zhao Yanqiu , Zhuang Wu , Yu Yan , Zhao Jun , Zhang Helong , Lu Pei , Li Weidong , Si Meimei , Ge Mingjing , Geng Huaize
Published: January 2022

WX-0593 (Iruplinalkib) is a novel, highly selective oral ALK and ROS1 tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI). In this study, the safety, antitumor activity, and pharmacokinetics of WX-0593 were evaluated in advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients with ALK or ROS1 rearrangement. In the dose-escalation phase and dose-expansion phase, patients were treated with WX-0593 until disease progression, unacceptable toxicity, or subject withdrawal. In the dose-escalation phase, the primary endpoints were maximum tolerated dose (MTD), dose-limiting toxicity (DLT), and safety assessed by investigators. In the dose-expansion phase, the primary endpoint was objective response rate (ORR) assessed by investigators. Between September 25, 2017 and October 15, 2018, a total of 153 patients received WX-0593 treatment. Two dose-limiting toxicities (DLTs) including one grade 3 QT interval prolonged and one grade 2 chronic heart failure were reported at the dose of 300 mg in one patient. MTD was not reached. Overall, 140 of the 152 (92%) patients experienced treatment-related adverse events (TRAEs) and 35 of the 152 (23%) patients had TRAEs ≥grade 3. The overall ORR was 59.3% (32 of 54) for the dose-escalation phase and 56.6% (56 of 99) for the dose-expansion phase. For patients who were ALK-rearranged and ALK TKI naive, the ORR were 81.0% (17 of 21) in the dose-escalation phase and 76.3% (29 of 38) in the dose-expansion phase, and for patients who previously received crizotinib as the only ALK TKI, the ORR were 38.1% (8 of 21) and 45.7% (21 of 46) for the two phases, respectively. For patients who were ROS1-rearranged, the ORR were 30.0% (3 of 10) in the dose-escalation phase and 44.4% (4 of 9) in the dose-expansion phase. WX-0593 showed favorable safety and promising antitumor activity in advanced NSCLC patients with ALK or ROS1 rearrangement.
Integrated histopathological, lipidomic, and metabolomic profiles reveal mink is a useful animal model to mimic the pathogenicity of severe COVID-19 patients
Authors: Song Zhiqi , Bao Linlin , Deng Wei , Liu Jiangning , Ren Erjun , Lv Qi , Liu Mingya , Qi Feifei , Chen Ting , Deng Ran , Li Fengdi , Liu Yunpeng , Wei Qiang , Gao Hong , Yu Pin , Han Yunlin , Zhao Wenjie , Zheng Junjun , Liang Xujian , Yang Fuhe , Qin Chuan
Published: January 2022

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is transmitted on mink farms between minks and humans in many countries. However, the systemic pathological features of SARS-CoV-2-infected minks are mostly unknown. Here, we demonstrated that minks were largely permissive to SARS-CoV-2, characterized by severe and diffuse alveolar damage, and lasted at least 14 days post inoculation (dpi). We first reported that infected minks displayed multiple organ-system lesions accompanied by an increased inflammatory response and widespread viral distribution in the cardiovascular, hepatobiliary, urinary, endocrine, digestive, and immune systems. The viral protein partially co-localized with activated Mac-2+ macrophages throughout the body. Moreover, we first found that the alterations in lipids and metabolites were correlated with the histological lesions in infected minks, especially at 6 dpi, and were similar to that of patients with severe and fatal COVID-19. Particularly, altered metabolic pathways, abnormal digestion, and absorption of vitamins, lipids, cholesterol, steroids, amino acids, and proteins, consistent with hepatic dysfunction, highlight metabolic and immune dysregulation. Enriched kynurenine in infected minks contributed to significant activation of the kynurenine pathway and was related to macrophage activation. Melatonin, which has significant anti-inflammatory and immunomodulating effects, was significantly downregulated at 6 dpi and displayed potential as a targeted medicine. Our data first illustrate systematic analyses of infected minks to recapitulate those observations in severe and fetal COVID-19 patients, delineating a useful animal model to mimic SARS-CoV-2-induced systematic and severe pathophysiological features and provide a reliable tool for the development of effective and targeted treatment strategies, vaccine research, and potential biomarkers.
The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on oral health inequalities and access to oral healthcare in England
Authors: Stennett Michelle , Tsakos Georgios
Published: January 2022

While the impact of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic on health inequalities is documented, oral health has been absent from this discussion. This commentary highlights the potential impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on oral health inequalities in England in February 2021. It includes a literature review, Public Health England and Kantar Worldpanel sales data on health behaviours and analysis of NHS dental services data. Purchasing data indicate, except for smoking, increases in health-compromising behaviours. Since the resumption of dental services, NHS general dental service use modestly recovered among adults but not children by October 2020. There are clear inequalities among children and older adults, with more deprived groups having lower uptake of dental service use than more affluent groups. Oral cancer referrals and hospital admissions for tooth extractions in children dramatically declined, with the latter primarily affecting children in more deprived areas. Many oral health programmes in schools and care homes were disrupted or suspended throughout this period. All these indicate that oral health inequalities have widened due to the COVID-19 pandemic. An oral health plan of action requires prioritising long-term investment in public health programmes and transforming commissioning pathways to support those with the greatest needs to access oral healthcare services.
From inputs to outputs: an analysis of the changes to learning outcomes for dental undergraduate education in the UK
Authors: Mather Helen , Bateman Heidi , Taylor John , Vernazza Christopher , Rothwell Charlotte , McCracken Giles , Ellis Janice
Published: January 2022

Introduction/aims Preparing for practice (PfP) was thought to represent a significant shift in the expectations of dental undergraduates compared to its predecessor, The first five years (TFFY). This project aimed to explore requirement changes by comparing learning outcomes for undergraduate dentists in these two documents. Changes in curriculum requirements defining clinical, professional, or a blend of these skills were also investigated.

Methods Curriculum mapping was used to compare learning outcomes in PfP to requirements in TFFY.

Results The total number of learning outcomes increased from 101 to 149 in PfP compared to TFFY. There was a proportional reduction in outcomes describing clinical skills and an increase in the proportion of outcomes describing professional and blended skills. Three TFFY requirements did not appear in PfP and a further 23 learning outcomes in PfP were absent in TFFY.

Conclusions In the transition from TFFY to PfP, there has been an overall increase in the number of outcomes graduates must attain before they can register with the General Dental Council. There are more outcomes defining professionalism which subsequently has resulted in proportional but not actual decrease in outcomes related to clinical skills. While there is uncertainty over how schools have managed curricula to incorporate these changes and thus whether the perception of graduate preparedness can be directly attributable to these changes, it is timely to consider any changes within dental learning outcomes in the context of preparedness concerns.
LncRNA XR_596701 protects H9c2 cells against intermittent hypoxia-induced injury through regulation of the miR-344b-5p/FAIM3 axis
Authors: Chen Qingshi , Lin Guofu , Lin Lanlan , Huang Jiefeng , Chen Lida , Lian Ningfang , Chen Mengxue , Zeng Aiming , Lin Qichang
Published: January 2022

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) participate in various biological processes and cardiovascular diseases. Recently, a novel lncRNA XR_596701 was found to be differentially expressed in obstructive sleep apnea (OSA)-induced myocardial tissue compared to normal myocardial tissues. However, the pathological effect and regulatory mechanism of XR_596701 in intermittent hypoxia (IH)-mediated cardiomyocytes damage have not been studied. The subcellular localization of XR_596701 was determined by fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). Gene expressions of XR_596701 and miR-344b-5p were detected by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) in IH-induced H9c2 cells. Cell proliferation was measured by 5-ethynyl-2′-deoxyuridine (EdU) staining assay. Cell apoptosis was detected by Hoechst 33342/PI staining and immunofluorescence (IF). Apoptotic protein of H9c2 cells was measured by western blot. The direct interaction between XR_596701 and miR-344b-5p as well as miR-344b-5p and Fas apoptotic inhibitory molecule 3 (FAIM3) were examined using dual-luciferase reporter assay. The significance of XR_596701 and miR-344b-5p on cell proliferation and apoptosis was evaluated by using gain-of-function and loss-of-function approaches. XR_596701 was upregulated, while miR-344b-5p downregulated in IH-induced H9c2 cells. Functionally, suppression of XR_596701 and overexpression of miR-344b-5p inhibited cell proliferation and promoted cell apoptosis in H9c2 cells. The roles of XR_596701 were achieved by sponging miR-344b-5p. And the function of miR-344b-5p was reversed by targeting FAIM3. Additionally, FAIM3 mediated IH-induced H9c2 cells damage by XR_596701. XR_596701 was serve as a novel lncRNA that indicated protective roles on proliferation and apoptosis of IH-induced H9c2 cells through the miR-344b-5p/FAIM3 axis.
Optical detection of the density-wave instability in the kagome metal KV3Sb5
Authors: Uykur Ece , Ortiz Brenden R. , Wilson Stephen D. , Dressel Martin , Tsirlin Alexander A.
Published: January 2022

Coexisting density-wave and superconducting states along with the large anomalous Hall effect in the absence of local magnetism remain intriguing and enigmatic features of the AV3Sb5 kagome metals (A = K, Rb, Cs). Here, we demonstrate via optical spectroscopy and density-functional calculations that low-energy dynamics of KV3Sb5 is characterized by unconventional localized carriers, which are strongly renormalized across the density-wave transition and indicative of electronic correlations. Strong phonon anomalies are prominent not only below the density-wave transition, but also at high temperatures, suggesting an intricate interplay of phonons with the underlying electronic structure. We further propose the star-of-David and tri-hexagon (inverse star-of-David) configurations for the density-wave order in KV3Sb5. These configurations are strongly reminiscent of p-wave states expected in the Hubbard model on the kagome lattice at the filling level of the van Hove singularity. The proximity to this regime should have intriguing and far-reaching implications for the physics of KV3Sb5 and related materials.
Integrated molecular and behavioural data reveal deep circadian disruption in response to artificial light at night in male Great tits (Parus major)
Authors: Dominoni Davide M. , de Jong Maaike , van Oers Kees , O’Shaughnessy Peter , Blackburn Gavin J. , Atema Els , Mateman A. Christa , D’Amelio Pietro B. , Trost Lisa , Bellingham Michelle , Clark Jessica , Visser Marcel E. , Helm Barbara
Published: January 2022

Globally increasing levels of artificial light at night (ALAN) are associated with shifting rhythms of behaviour in many wild species. However, it is unclear whether changes in behavioural timing are paralleled by consistent shifts in the molecular clock and its associated physiological pathways. Inconsistent shifts between behavioural and molecular rhythms, and between different tissues and physiological systems, disrupt the circadian system, which coordinates all major body functions. We therefore compared behavioural, transcriptional and metabolomic responses of captive great tits (Parus major) to three ALAN intensities or to dark nights, recording activity and sampling brain, liver, spleen and blood at mid-day and midnight. ALAN advanced wake-up time, and this shift was paralleled by advanced expression of the clock gene BMAL1 in all tissues, suggesting close links between behaviour and clock gene expression across tissues. However, further analysis of gene expression and metabolites revealed that clock shifts were inconsistent across physiological systems. Untargeted metabolomic profiling showed that only 9.7% of the 755 analysed metabolites followed the behavioural shift. This high level of desynchronization indicates that ALAN disrupted the circadian system on a deep, easily overlooked level. Thus, circadian disruption could be a key mediator of health impacts of ALAN on wild animals.
Reduced rainfall and resistant varieties mediate a critical transition in the coffee rust disease
Authors: Li Kevin , Hajian-Forooshani Zachary , Su Chenyang , Perfecto Ivette , Vandermeer John
Published: January 2022

Critical transitions, sudden responses to slow changes in environmental drivers, are inherent in many dynamic processes, prompting a search for early warning signals. We apply this framework to understanding the coffee rust disease, which experienced an unprecedented outbreak in Mesoamerica in 2012–2013, likely a critical transition. Based on monthly infection data from 128 study quadrats in a 45-ha plot in southern Mexico from 2014 to 2020, we find that the persistent seasonal epidemic following the initial outbreak collapses in an evident subsequent critical transition. Characteristic signals of “critical slowing down” precede this collapse and are correlated with reduced rainfall, as expected from climate change, and planting of rust-resistant varieties, an ongoing management intervention. Recoveries from catastrophes may themselves be experienced as a critical transition and managers should consider the larger dynamical landscape for the possibility of subsequent transitions. Early warning signals could therefore be useful when evaluating mitigation effectiveness.
Age-adjusted interpretation of biomarkers of renal function and homeostasis, inflammation, and circulation in Emergency Department patients
Authors: Candel Bart G. J. , Khoudja Jamèl , Gaakeer Menno I. , ter Avest Ewoud , Sir Özcan , Lameijer Heleen , Hessels Roger A. P. A. , Reijnen Resi , van Zwet Erik , de Jonge Evert , de Groot Bas
Published: January 2022

Appropriate interpretation of blood tests is important for risk stratification and guidelines used in the Emergency Department (ED) (such as SIRS or CURB-65). The impact of abnormal blood test values on mortality may change with increasing age due to (patho)-physiologic changes. The aim of this study was therefore to assess the effect of age on the case-mix adjusted association between biomarkers of renal function and homeostasis, inflammation and circulation and in-hospital mortality. This observational multi-center cohort study has used the Netherlands Emergency department Evaluation Database (NEED), including all consecutive ED patients ≥ 18 years of three hospitals. A generalized additive logistic regression model was used to visualize the association between in-hospital mortality, age and five blood tests (creatinine, sodium, leukocytes, C-reactive Protein, and hemoglobin). Multivariable logistic regression analyses were used to assess the association between the number of abnormal blood test values and mortality per age category (18–50; 51–65; 66–80; > 80 years). Of the 94,974 included patients, 2550 (2.7%) patients died in-hospital. Mortality increased gradually for C-reactive Protein (CRP), and had a U-shaped association for creatinine, sodium, leukocytes, and hemoglobin. Age significantly affected the associations of all studied blood tests except in leukocytes. In addition, with increasing age categories, case-mix adjusted mortality increased with the number of abnormal blood tests. In summary, the association between blood tests and (adjusted) mortality depends on age. Mortality increases gradually or in a U-shaped manner with increasing blood test values. Age-adjusted numerical scores may improve risk stratification. Our results have implications for interpretation of blood tests and their use in risk stratification tools and acute care guidelines.

Trial registration number Netherlands Trial Register (NTR) NL8422, 03/2020.
Inner wall temperature distribution measurement of the ladle based on cavity effective emissivity correction
Authors: Liu Jun , Huang Yan-hui , Ci Ying , Fang Jiang-xiong , Yang Feng , David Nobes
Published: January 2022

Inner wall temperature of ladle is closely related to the quality of steelmaking and control of steel-making tapping temperature. This article adopts a rotating platform to drive an infrared temperature sensor and a laser sensor to scan the temperature field distribution of the ladle inner wall at the hot repair station, where the scanning laser sensor obtains coordinates of each measured point. Because of measuring errors of infrared thermal radiation caused by emissivity uncertainty of the ladle inner wall surface, this article proposes a method for temperature measurement based on Monte Carlo model for effective emissivity correction of each measured point. In the model, we consider the ladle and fire baffle as a cavity. By calculation of the model, the effect of distance from the fire baffle to the ladle and the material surface emissivity of the ladle inner wall on the effective emissivity of the cavity are obtained. After that, the effective emissivity of each measured point is determined. Then the scanning temperature of each measured point is corrected to real temperature. By field measuring test and verification contrast, the results show that: the maximum absolute error of the method in this article is 4.7 °C, the minimum error is 0.6 °C, and the average error is less than 2.8 °C. The method in this article achieves high measurement accuracy and contributes to the control of metallurgical process based on temperature information.
The mediating roles of demand and satisfaction in formation process of physical exercise habits among college students
Authors: Wang Kun , Qian Jiali , Yang Jiayi , Ge Tianyi , Li Zhizhong
Published: January 2022

Considering the situation and disadvantages of being physically inactive as well as the nature and advantages of doing physical exercise regularly, there is a need to explore how physical exercise habits are cultivated and formed. The study was to examine the formation process of physical exercise habits. According to the Model of Physical Exercise and Habit, It was speculated that satisfaction, demand or chain from satisfaction to demand could mediate the relationship between physical exercise behavior and physical exercise habit. Cross-sectional design with 3202 college or university students from China was employed. Data about physical exercise habits, physical exercise behaviors as well as related questions was measured by the Self-Report Exercise Habits Index and direct questions. Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) was constructed to evaluate the mediating effects of demand and/or satisfaction by Asymptotically Distribution-Free and BOOTSTRAP. The inferential statistics was to estimate path coefficient and mediation effect. Findings suggested physical exercise behaviors could develop into physical exercise habits through a direct path, single mediators of demand or satisfaction, or a chain mediator from demand to satisfaction.
Electro-spray deposited TiO2 bilayer films and their recyclable photocatalytic self-cleaning strategy
Authors: Song Kewei , Cui Yue , Liu Liang , Chen Boyang , Hirose Kayo , Shahiduzzaman Md. , Umezu Shinjiro
Published: January 2022

Recyclable titanium dioxide (TiO2)-based photocatalytic self-cleaning films (SCFs) having a bilayer structure were prepared and assessed. These SCFs comprised two layers of fibers fabricated using an electrospinning process. The self-cleaning layer was made of acrylonitrile–butadiene–styrene (ABS) fibers with embedded TiO2 while the substrate layer was composed of fibers made by simultaneously electrospinning poly (vinyl alcohol) (PVA) and ABS. This substrate improved the mechanical strength of the SCF and provided greater adhesion due to the presence of the PVA. The experimental results showed that the hydrophobicity (as assessed by the water contact angle), photocatalytic properties and self-cleaning efficiency of the SCF were all enhanced with increasing TiO2 content in the ABS/TiO2 fibers. In addition, the introduction of the substrate layer allowed the SCFs to be applied to various surfaces and then peeled off when desired. The ABS fibers effectively improved the strength of the overall film, while deterioration of the ABS upon exposure to UV light was alleviated by the addition of TiO2. These SCFs can potentially be recycled after use in various environments, and therefore have applications in the fields of environmental protection and medical science.
Extracellular vesicle-mediated co-delivery of TRAIL and dinaciclib for targeted therapy of resistant tumors
Authors: Ke Changhong , Hou Huan , Su Kui , Huang Chaohong , Yuan Qian , Li Shuyi , Sun Jianwu , Lin Yue , Wu Chuanbin , Zhao Yu , Yuan Zhengqiang
Published: January 2022

Co-delivery of TRAIL and the sensitizing drug dinaciclib by extracellular vesicles (Dina@EV-T) to induce synergistic apoptosis both in vitro and in vivo for the treatment of TRAIL resistant tumors.
Optimizing CSP1 analogs for modulating quorum sensing inStreptococcus pneumoniaewith bulky, hydrophobic nonproteogenic amino acid substitutions
Authors: Milly Tahmina A. , Buttner Alec R. , Rieth Naomi , Hutnick Elizabeth , Engler Emilee R. , Campanella Alexandra R. , Lella Muralikrishna , Bertucci Michael A. , Tal-Gan Yftah
Published: January 2022

The prompt appearance of multiantibiotic-resistant bacteria necessitates finding alternative treatments that can attenuate bacterial infections while minimizing the rate of antibiotic resistance development.
Metal–organic framework derived carbon-encapsulated hollow CuO/Cu2O heterostructure heterohedron as an efficient electrocatalyst for hydrogen evolution reaction
Authors: Zhang Lixin , Wang Congli , Jiu Hongfang , Xu Qianwen , Li Xin , Song Wei , Luo Shiyu , Zhao Jiahui
Published: January 2022

It is of pivotal significance to probe highly efficient, cost-effective and low-cost catalysts for the hydrogen evolution reaction.
Nanochannel-based {BaZn}–organic framework for catalytic activity on the cycloaddition reaction of epoxides with CO2 and deacetalization-Knoevenagel condensation
Authors: Lv Hongxiao , Fan Liming , Chen Hongtai , Zhang Xiutang , Gao Yanpeng
Published: January 2022

Nanochannel-based {[(CH3)2NH2]2[BaZn(TDP)(H2O)]×DMF×5H2O}n (NUC-51) is synthesized and displays a high catalytic activity on the cycloaddition reactions of epoxides with CO2 and the deacetalization-Knoevenagel condensation reaction.
A glucose-based molecular rotor inhibitor of glycogen phosphorylase as a probe of cellular enzymatic function
Authors: Minadakis Michail-Panagiotis , Mavreas Konstantinos F. , Neofytos Dionysios D. , Paschou Maria , Kogkaki Artemis , Athanasiou Varvara , Mamais Michael , Veclani Daniele , Iatrou Hermis , Venturini Alessandro , Chrysina Evangelia D. , Papazafiri Panagiota , Gimisis Thanasis
Published: January 2022

Synthesis and study of RotA, an inhibitor of glycogen phosphorylase (GP), which when bound at the active site of GP, produces a strong fluorescence signal, allowing utilization of RotA as a probe that brings GP “to light” in the cellular milieu.
Azaborine benzylic ion stability and reactivity in ionic polymerization
Authors: Wakefield IV Herbert , Jiang Qifeng , Klausen Rebekka S.
Published: January 2022

The reactivity of BN 2-vinylnaphthalene with ionic polymerization iniatiors was investigated. Aromatic functionalization was observed instead of polymerization. Calculations indicate the effect of BN isosterism on the stability of benzylic ions.
Co3O4 nanoparticle-dotted hierarchical-assembled carbon nanosheet framework catalysts with the formation/decomposition mechanisms of Li2O2 for smart lithium–oxygen batteries
Authors: Zhai Yanjie , Yang Wenyue , Xie Xiubo , Sun Xueqin , Wang Jun , Yang Xiaoyang , Naik Nithesh , Kimura Hideo , Du Wei , Guo Zhanhu , Hou Chuanxin
Published: January 2022

Co3O4-HCNFs were fabricated and proved to be effective for the full composition/decomposition of generated Li2O2 thin films during the oxygen reduction reaction and oxygen evolution reaction processes.
Synergistic modulation of the thermoelectric performance of melt-spun p-type Mg2Sn via Na2S and Si alloying
Authors: Huang Yuling , Zheng Sikang , Liao Huijun , Qiao Saisai , Han Guang , Wang Guoyu , Huang Zhengyong , Li Jian , Lu Xu , Zhou Xiaoyuan
Published: January 2022

Na2S and Si alloying synergistically optimizes the electrical and thermal transport properties of melt-spun p-type Mg2Sn, contributing to a peak thermoelectric zT of 0.52 at 723 K.
Three-dimensional porphyrinic covalent organic frameworks for highly efficient electroreduction of carbon dioxide
Authors: Chi Shao-Yi , Chen Qian , Zhao Shao-Shuai , Si Duan-Hui , Wu Qiu-Jin , Huang Yuan-Biao , Cao Rong
Published: January 2022

A 3D cobalt porphyrin-based covalent organic framework, 3D-Por(Co/H)-COF, was prepared to maximize the accessibility of the active sites for enhanced activity for the electrochemical CO2 reduction reaction.
Engineering immunomodulatory nanoplatforms from commensal bacteria-derived polysaccharide A
Authors: Kakwere Hamilton , Harriman Rian , Pirir Mauricio , Avila Crystal , Chan Kristen , Lewis Jamal S.
Published: January 2022

Polysaccharide A is an important immunoregulatory molecule found in commensal bacteria, which can be isolated and repurposed into nanoplatforms for directed modulation of the immune system.
Identifying and utilizing optical properties in the CaSrNb2O7:Pr3+phosphor at low temperature
Authors: Liu Ya , Zhang Hao , Liu Zhichao , Cai Yiyu , Wang Chao , Lv Hongyu , Zhu Xiaodie , Wang Chaochao , Yu Xue , Qiu Jianbei , Ma Hongqing , Zhao Lei , Xu Xuhui
Published: January 2022

A phosphor has a red LPL at 250 K. The photoluminescence is white at a low temperature (4–84 K) and gradually turns red as the temperature increases. The blue luminescence of the matrix is quenched during the increase in temperature.
Recent advances in inhibiting atherosclerosis and restenosis: from pathogenic factors, therapeutic molecules to nano-delivery strategies
Authors: Wang Xiaoyu , Gao Bin , Feng Yakai
Published: January 2022

This review aims to summarize recent advances in the inhibition of atherosclerosis and restenosis in terms of pathogenic factors, therapeutic molecules, and nano-delivery strategies.
Galactic gamma-ray and neutrino emission from interacting cosmic-ray nuclei
Authors: Breuhaus M. , Hinton J. A. , Joshi V. , Reville B. , Schoorlemmer H.
Published: January 2022

We present a study of the expectations for very-high-energy (VHE) to ultra-high-energy (UHE) gamma-ray and neutrino emission from interacting cosmic rays in our Galaxy as well as a comparison to the latest results for the Galactic UHE diffuse emission. We demonstrate the importance of properly accounting for both the mixed cosmic-ray composition and the gamma-ray absorption. We adopt the wounded-nucleon model of nucleus interactions and provide parameterisations of the resulting gamma-ray and neutrino production. Nucleon shielding due to clustering inside nuclei is shown to have a measurable effect on the production of gamma rays and is particularly evident close to breaks and cutoffs in mixed-composition particle spectra. The change in composition around the ‘knee’ in the cosmic ray spectrum has a noticeable impact on the diffuse neutrino and gamma-ray emission spectra. We show that current and near-future detectors can probe these differences in the key energy range from 10 TeV to 1 PeV, testing the paradigm of the universality of the cosmic ray spectrum and composition throughout the Galaxy.
The Milky Way’s middle-aged inner ring
Authors: Wylie Shola M. , Clarke Jonathan P. , Gerhard Ortwin E.
Published: January 2022

Aims. We investigate the metallicity, age, and orbital anatomy of the inner Milky Way, specifically focussing on the outer bar region.

Methods. We integrated a sample of APOGEE DR16 inner Galaxy stars in a state of the art bar-bulge potential with a slow pattern speed and investigated the link between the resulting orbits and their [Fe/H] and ages. By superimposing the orbits, we built density, [Fe/H], and age maps of the inner Milky Way, which we divided further using the orbital parameters eccentricity, |Xmax|, and |Zmax|.

Results. We find that at low heights from the Galactic plane, the Galactic bar gradually transitions into a radially thick, vertically thin, elongated inner ring with average solar [Fe/H]. This inner ring is mainly composed of stars with AstroNN ages between 4 and 9 Gyr with a peak in age between 6 and 8 Gyr, making the average age of the ring ∼6 Gyr. The vertical thickness of the ring decreases markedly towards younger ages. We also find very large L4 Lagrange orbits that have average solar to super-solar metallicities and intermediate ages. Lastly, we confirm a clear X-shape in the [Fe/H] and density distributions at large Galactic heights.

Conclusions. The orbital structure obtained for the APOGEE stars reveals that the Milky Way hosts an inner ring-like structure between the planar bar and corotation. This structure is on average metal rich, intermediately aged, and enhances the horizontal metallicity gradient along the bar’s major axis.
Probing the galactic cosmic-ray density with current and future γ-ray instruments
Authors: Peron G. , Aharonian F.
Published: January 2022

Context. Cosmic rays (CRs) propagating through dense molecular clouds (MCs) produce γ-rays, which carry direct information about the CR distribution throughout the Galaxy. Observations of γ-rays in different energy bands allow for the exploration of the average CR density in the Galactic disk, the so-called level of the “CR sea”. Observations with the Fermi-Large Area Telescope (LAT) demonstrated the method’s feasibility based on two dozen MCs in our Galaxy. However, the potential of Fermi-LAT is limited to the exploration of the most massive and relatively nearby MCs; thus, the current observations cover only a tiny fraction of the Milky Way.

Aims. In this work, we aim to study the prospects of expanding the CR measurements to very and ultra-high energies and remote parts of the Galaxy with the current and next-generation detectors.

Methods. Based on calculations of fluxes expected from MCs, we formulated the requirements to the sensitivity of the post-Fermi-LAT detectors in order to map GeV-TeV CRs in the Galactic disk. We also explored the potential of the current and future air-shower and atmospheric Cherenkov telescope arrays for the extension of CR studies to multi-TeV and PeV energy bands.

Results. We demonstrated that the improvement of the Fermi-LAT sensitivity by a factor of a few would allow a dramatic increase in the number of detectable MCs, covering almost the entire Galaxy. The recently completed Large High altitude air Shower Observatory should be able to take the first CR probes at PeV energies in the coming five years or so.
A major asymmetric ice trap in a planet-forming disk
Authors: Brunken Nashanty G. C. , Booth Alice S. , Leemker Margot , Nazari Pooneh , van der Marel Nienke , van Dishoeck Ewine F.
Published: January 2022

The complex organic molecules (COMs) detected in star-forming regions are the precursors of the prebiotic molecules that can lead to the emergence of life. By studying COMs in more evolved protoplanetary disks we can gain a better understanding of how they are incorporated into planets. This paper presents ALMA band 7 observations of the dust and ice trap in the protoplanetary disk around Oph IRS 48. We report the first detection of dimethyl ether (CH3OCH3) in a planet-forming disk and a tentative detection of methyl formate (CH3OCHO). We determined column densities for the detected molecules and upper limits on non-detected species using the CASSIS spectral analysis tool. The inferred column densities of CH3OCH3 and CH3OCHO with respect to methanol (CH3OH) are of order unity, indicating unusually high abundances of these species compared to other environments. Alternatively, the 12CH3OH emission is optically thick and beam diluted, implying a higher CH3OH column density and a smaller emitting area than originally thought. The presence of these complex molecules can be explained by thermal ice sublimation, where the dust cavity edge is heated by irradiation and the full volatile ice content is observable in the gas phase. This work confirms the presence of oxygen-bearing molecules more complex than CH3OH in protoplanetary disks for the first time. It also shows that it is indeed possible to trace the full interstellar journey of COMs across the different evolutionary stages of star, disk, and planet formation.