bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A comparison of machine learning algorithms in predicting COVID-19 prognostics
Authors: Ustebay Serpil , Sarmis Abdurrahman , Kaya Gulsum Kubra , Sujan Mark
Published: September 2022

ML algorithms are used to develop prognostic and diagnostic models and so to support clinical decision-making. This study uses eight supervised ML algorithms to predict the need for intensive care, intubation, and mortality risk for COVID-19 patients. The study uses two datasets: (1) patient demographics and clinical data (n = 11,712), and (2) patient demographics, clinical data, and blood test results (n = 602) for developing the prediction models, understanding the most significant features, and comparing the performances of eight different ML algorithms. Experimental findings showed that all prognostic prediction models reported an AUROC value of over 0.92, in which extra tree and CatBoost classifiers were often outperformed (AUROC over 0.94). The findings revealed that the features of C-reactive protein, the ratio of lymphocytes, lactic acid, and serum calcium have a substantial impact on COVID-19 prognostic predictions. This study provides evidence of the value of tree-based supervised ML algorithms for predicting prognosis in health care.
Smart retrofitting for human factors: a face recognition-based system proposal
Authors: Generosi Andrea , Agostinelli Thomas , Mengoni Maura
Published: September 2022

Industry nowadays must deal with the so called “fourth industrial revolution”, i.e. Industry 4.0. This revolution is based on the introduction of new paradigms in the manufacturing industry such as flexibility, efficiency, safety, digitization, big data analysis and interconnection. However, human factors’ integration is usually not considered, although included as one of the paradigms. Some of these human factors’ most overlooked aspects are the customization of the worker’s user experience and on-board safety. Moreover, the issue of integrating state of the art technologies on legacy machines is also of utmost importance, as it can make a considerable difference on the economic and environmental aspects of their management, by extending the machine’s life cycle. In response to this issue, the Retrofitting paradigm, the addition of new technologies to legacy machines, has been considered. In this paper we propose a novel modular system architecture for secure authentication and worker’s log-in/log-out traceability based on face recognition and on state-of-the-art Deep Learning and Computer Vision techniques, as Convolutional Neural Networks. Starting from the proposed architecture, we developed and tested a device designed to retrofit legacy machines with such capabilities, keeping particular attention to the interface usability in the design phase, little considered in retrofitting applications along with other Human Factors, despite being one of the pillars of Industry 4.0. This research work’s results showed a dramatic improvement regarding machines on-board access safety.
‘Wish to Dream’ Fulfilment: the Motivations for Onward Migration
Authors: Di Cristo Nunzia , Akwei Cynthia
Published: September 2022

This paper explores the individual and group motivations that have encouraged the onward migration of Italian-Pakistanis and Italian-Bangladeshis to the North of England after obtaining Italian citizenship because the reasons for moving again to the current destination are under-researched. It appears that there has been a design-driven form of intentionality in their complex migrations attributable to the influence of European and Italian policies. Gender and ethnic differences among these groups are identified, as well as the level of their integration in the new host country. A qualitative research approach is adopted utilizing six focus group discussions with 48 participants, and the data collected were subjected to thematic analysis. The findings revealed that aspects of education and qualifications, religion, social identity, and culture along with welfare, security, and employment were the motivations for the participants’ onward migration.
Expression of nectin-4 in papillary renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Zschäbitz Stefanie , Mikuteit Marie , Stöhr Christine , Herrmann Edwin , Polifka Iris , Agaimy Abbas , Trojan Lutz , Ströbel Philipp , Becker Frank , Wülfing Christian , Barth Peter , Stöckle Michael , Staehler Michael , Stief Christian , Haferkamp Axel , Hohenfellner Markus , Duensing Stefan , Macher-Göppinger Stephan , Wullich Bernd , Noldus Joachim , Brenner Walburgis , Roos Frederik C. , Walter Bernhard , Otto Wolfgang , Burger Maximilian , Schrader Andres Jan , Hartmann Arndt , Erlmeier Franziska , Steffens Sandra
Published: September 2022

Background

Nectin-4 contributes to tumor proliferation, lymphangiogenesis and angiogenesis in malignant tumors and is an emerging target in tumor therapy. In renal cell carcinoma (RCC) VEGF-directed tyrosine kinase inhibitors and checkpoint inhibitors are currently treatments of choice. Enfortumab vedotin-ejf (EV) is an antibody drug conjugate that targets Nectin-4. The aim of our study was to investigate the expression of Nectin-4 in a large cohort of papillary RCC specimens.

Patients and methods

Specimens were derived from the PANZAR consortium (Erlangen, Heidelberg, Herne, Homburg, Mainz, Mannheim, Marburg, Muenster, LMU Munich, TU Munich, and Regensburg). Clinical data and tissue samples from n = 190 and n = 107 patients with type 1 and 2 pRCC, respectively, were available. Expression of Nectin-4 was determined by immunohistochemistry (IHC).

Results

In total, Nectin-4 staining was moderately or strongly positive in of 92 (48.4%) of type 1 and 39 (36.4%) type 2 of pRCC cases. No associations between Nectin-4 expression and age at diagnosis, gender, grading, and TNM stage was found. 5 year overall survival rate was not statistically different in patients with Nectin-4 negative versus Nectin-4 positive tumors for the overall cohort and the pRCC type 2 subgroup, but higher in patient with Nectin-4 positive pRCC type 1 tumors compared to Nectin-4 negative tumors (81.3% vs. 67.8%, p = 0.042).

Conclusion

Nectin-4 could not be confirmed as a prognostic marker in pRCC in general. Due to its high abundance on pRCC specimens Nectin-4 is an interesting target for therapeutical approaches e.g. with EV. Clinical trials are warranted to elucidate its role in the pRCC treatment landscape.
Estimating Ground Snow Load Based on Ground Snow Depth and Climatological Elements for Snow Hazard Assessment in Northeastern China
Authors: Mo Huamei , Zhang Guolong , Zhang Qingwen , Hong H. P. , Fan Feng
Published: September 2022

Extreme snow loads can collapse roofs. This load is calculated based on the ground snow load (that is, the snow water equivalent on the ground). However, snow water equivalent (SWE) measurements are unavailable for most sites, while the ground snow depth is frequently measured and recorded. A new simple practical algorithm was proposed in this study to evaluate the SWE by utilizing ground snow depth, precipitation data, wind speed, and air temperature. For the evaluation, the precipitation was classified as snowfall or rainfall according to the air temperature, the snowfall or rainfall was then corrected for measurement error that is mainly caused by wind-induced undercatch, and the effect of snow water loss was considered. The developed algorithm was applied and validated using data from 57 meteorological stations located in the northeastern region of China. The annual maximum SWE obtained based on the proposed algorithm was compared with that obtained from the actual SWE measurements. The return period values of the annual maximum ground snow load were estimated and compared to those obtained according to the procedure suggested by the Chinese structural design code. The comparison indicated that the use of the proposed algorithm leads to a good estimated SWE or ground snow load. Its use allowed the estimation of the ground snow load for sites without SWE measurement and facilitated snow hazard mapping.
A weighted inequality for trigonometric series
Authors: Coppola Giovanni , Laporta Maurizio
Published: September 2022

By applying Pitt’s inequality we prove a weighted $$L^p$$

L
p

version of Gallagher’s inequality for trigonometric series. Furthermore, we consider a family of weights generated by a smoothing process, via convolution operation, whose first steps are the indicator function of a compact interval and the so-called Cesàro weight supported in the same interval. The eventual aim is the comparison of such weights in view of possible refinements of our inequality for $$p=2$$

p
=
2

.
Bures–Wasserstein geometry for positive-definite Hermitian matrices and their trace-one subset
Authors: Oostrum Jesse van
Published: September 2022

In his classical argument, Rao derives the Riemannian distance corresponding to the Fisher metric using a mapping between the space of positive measures and Euclidean space. He obtains the Hellinger distance on the full space of measures and the Fisher distance on the subset of probability measures. In order to highlight the interplay between Fisher theory and quantum information theory, we extend this construction to the space of positive-definite Hermitian matrices using Riemannian submersions and quotient manifolds. The analog of the Hellinger distance turns out to be the Bures–Wasserstein (BW) distance, a distance measure appearing in optimal transport, quantum information, and optimisation theory. First we present an existing derivation of the Riemannian metric and geodesics associated with this distance. Subsequently, we present a novel derivation of the Riemannian distance and geodesics for this metric on the subset of trace-one matrices, analogous to the Fisher distance for probability measures.
Comparison of tissue culture-induced variation in triticale regenerants obtained by androgenesis and somatic embryogenesis
Authors: Pachota Katarzyna A.
Published: September 2022

Triticale is becoming an increasingly important livestock crop production. This is evidenced by increasing triticale-producing areas and by improved yields. In addition, meeting the increasing demand for cereals involves the introduction of high-yielding and stress-resistant varieties into breeding. In vitro culture techniques can accelerate the development of new varieties. Therefore, it seems extremely important to develop efficient plant regeneration methods through in vitro cultures and to understand the mechanisms involved in gaining regenerants. Obtaining regenerants of triticale through somatic embryogenesis and androgenesis may lead to tissue culture-induced variation. In the present study, we compared regenerants obtained in both regeneration systems (anther and immature zygotic embryo cultures), considering the level of genetic and epigenetic changes observed in different DNA sequence contexts for methylated cytosine (CG, CHG, CHH). The changes concerning the DNA sequence (so-called sequence variation) and the changes concerning the DNA methylation patterns, i.e., the removal of methylated cytosine (DNA demethylation) and the introduction of methylation to cytosine (de novo DNA methylation), were analyzed. We observed that regenerants derived via somatic embryogenesis and androgenesis differ notably for demethylation in the symmetrical CG sequence context and de novo methylation in the asymmetrical CHH context. These changes may be related to the reprogramming of microspore development from gametophytic to sporophytic and lack of such process in zygotic embryos.
Phytochemical Investigation of Egyptian Spinach Leaves, a Potential Source for Antileukemic Metabolites: In Vitro and In Silico Study
Authors: Abdelgawad Shimaa M. , Hetta Mona H. , Ibrahim Mohamed A. , Balachandran Premalatha , Zhang Jin , Wang Mei , Fawzy Ghada A. , El-Askary Hesham I. , Ross Samir A.
Published: September 2022

Spinacia oleracea L., Amaranthaceae, leaves cultivated in Egypt demonstrated a potential antileukemic activity against the chronic myeloid leukemia, K562 cell line. Thus, the aim of this study is to carry out a phytochemical investigation of S. oleracea leaves as well as the isolation of its antileukemic phytoconstituents. Phytochemical investigation of S. oleracea leaves resulted in the isolation of seventeen known compounds. The biological study revealed that compounds hexaprenol, phytol, and 18-[(1-oxohexadecyl) oxy]-9-octadecenoic acid exhibited a remarkable antiproliferative activity against K562 cells in vitro. A mechanistic in silico study showed that hexaprenol, phytol, and 18-[(1-oxohexadecyl) oxy]-9-octadecenoic acid exhibited a strong binding affinity towards topoisomerase (docking score −12.50, −9.19, and −13.29 kcal/mol, respectively), and showed as well a strong binding affinity towards Abl kinase (docking score −11.91, −9.35, and −12.59 kcal/mol, respectively). Molecular dynamics study revealed that 18-[(1-oxohexadecyl) oxy]-9-octadecenoic acid produced stable complexes with both topoisomerase and Abl kinase with RMSD values of 1.81 and 1.85 Å, respectively. As a result of our findings, we recommend more in vivo and preclinical studies to confirm the potential benefit of spinach leaves for chronic myeloid leukemia patients.

Graphical Abstract
Effect of annealing on the microstructure and properties of IN 625 specimens manufactured by selective laser melting
Authors: Sitek Ryszard , Ciftci Jakub , Moszczyńska Dorota , Maj Piotr , Ura-Bińczyk Ewa , Warzybok Piotr , Cieślik Iwona , Wiśniewski Paweł , Mizera Jarosław
Published: September 2022

The study examines the effect of the annealing on the microstructure, tensile strength (small flat dog-bone specimen size with 5 mm dimension of measuring base) and corrosion resistance of IN 625 nickel superalloy specimens manufactured by means of selective laser melting method (SLM). The annealing of such specimens was carried out in a chamber furnace in a protective atmosphere of argon at a temperature of 1038 °C for 1 h. The cooling process was carried out in an atmosphere of air at ambient temperature. The microstructure of the IN 625 nickel superalloy after the 3D printing process and after the post-process heat treatment (HT) was examined by means of scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD). The results showed a uniform microstructure after the SLM process with element microsegregation. The cooling rate in the heat treatment was not sufficient which caused precipitation at the grain boundaries, most probably carbides and resulted in only a partial increase in ductility much lower than that of the material in initial state despite the high temperature applied during the annealing. The strength in the HT was on a level comparable to as-build state, 852 MPa and 891 MPa, respectively. Additional corrosion resistance tests were performed by the potentiodynamic method in a 3.5% NaCl solution at room temperature. HT increased the current density variation from i
pass due to the formed precipitates. Our studies show that the size effect is an important factor when assessing the properties of IN 625 obtained using SLM. Despite similar microstructure, the structure defects play a more significant role which translates into lower mechanical properties than in normal sized specimens defined by the standard ASTM E8.
Bearing Witness
Authors: Nicholson Andrea
Published: September 2022

Since the 1990s, modern slavery has been recognized as a global problem, with campaigners around the world providing assessments of its nature and extent, its drivers, and possible solutions for ending it. However, largely absent from the global antislavery movement's discourse and policy prescriptions are the voices of survivors of slavery themselves. Survivors' authentic voices are underemployed vital tools in the fight against modern slavery in all its forms. Through close readings of over 200 contemporary slave narratives, Andrea Nicholson repositions the history of the genre and exposes the conditions and consequences of slavery, and the challenges survivors face in liberation. Far from the trope of 'capture, enslavement, escape,' she argues that narratives are rich and vitally important sources that enable the antislavery community to be gain important insights and build more effective interventions.
From Pioneer Historiography to Patriotic History: Constructing Usable Pasts in Zimbabwe (1890–2018)
Authors: Pinto Teresa Nogueira
Published: September 2022

Different political projects and ideological positions are founded upon distinct accounts of the past, each with their own emphases, silences, and omissions. The case of Zimbabwe illustrates this connection between power and history. Whereas the myths of colonial historiography provided legitimization frameworks for settler colonialism, “patriotic history” became a key element of the legitimation strategy implemented by the post-independence regime. Pinto analyses how history and historiography were incorporated into narratives of power legitimization in both pre- and post-independence Zimbabwe and how, in the late 90s, history and historiography became critical sites of political polarization and contestation.
Internal Politics and Activism in Former Rebel Parties
Authors: Ibáñez Marcela , Jäger Kai
Published: September 2022

Who are the supporters of former rebel parties? Drawing on the classical party literature, we argue that the support base of former rebel parties consists predominantly of activists. These supporters are dissatisfied with intra-party politics because the benefits and costs of a rebel-to-party transformation are unequally distributed between them and the leadership. We test our arguments by examining the case of the novel FARC party (Comunes) in Colombia. Based on a unique sample of FARC supporters, we obtained unprecedented insight into the internal affairs of the FARC. Our survey design allowed us to generate an over-time comparison between FARC and other party supporters in the Colombian political system. The empirical analysis shows that in comparison, FARC supporters tend to be more politically active as well as more dissatisfied with internal politics. Furthermore, dissatisfaction with democracy and the peace agreement increased after their first electoral cycle.
Waco's First Black School Board Trustees: Navigating Institutional White Supremacy in 1970s Texas
Authors: James-Gallaway ArCasia D.
Published: September 2022

Through the lens of the school board, this essay examines school governance dynamics as a southern, historically white public school district struggled to implement school desegregation. In 1976, the city of Waco simultaneously elected its school district's first trustees of Color, Dr. Emma Louise Harrison and Rev. Robert Lewis Gilbert. Harrison and Gilbert used distinctly different political strategies to navigate the racially hostile school board environment, but ultimately, as this article demonstrates, neither strategy enabled them to overcome white supremacy in Waco. This seemingly obvious point reveals a notable yet underemphasized drawback of school desegregation: that it failed to upend structural racial injustice. The case of Harrison and Gilbert illustrates that this limitation was reflected in the token number of Black trustees on the boards of desegregated schools and the concerted white resistance they met in working to spur meaningful racial change.
Evaluation of a Web-based learning system for skills in removing personal protective equipment for highly infectious diseases—A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Sato Shota , Iijima Sachiko
Published: September 2022

Objective:

Which educational method is best for 3-month retention of proper skills in removing personal protective equipment (PPE) in the setting of highly infectious diseases is unclear. We evaluated the effectiveness of a Web-based learning system after 3 months of use.

Setting:

One general hospital in Japan.

Intervention:

We conducted a randomized, nonblinded, parallel-group trial with 35 nurses using the substitution block method. At baseline, both groups received face-to-face training in putting on and removing PPE. The intervention group was given access to the Web-based learning system we developed using Modular Object-Oriented Dynamic Learning Environment (Moodle). After 3 months, we assessed both groups regarding knowledge and skills in removing PPE using a 34-point test, fluorescent markers, and video recordings.

Results:

Overall, 34 participants completed the trial: 16 in the intervention group and 18 in the control group. Postintervention knowledge test scores (1.3 vs −0.8; P = .013; effect size r = .42) and deviations from the required procedure (−5.4 vs 1.9; P = .001; effect size r = .55) were significantly better in the intervention group than in the control group. The number of contaminated sites (−0.5 vs 0.4; P = .128; effect size r = .26) and contaminated participants (−18.7% vs 11.1% decreased in the intervention group, and increased in the control group, although this was not significant (P = .242; effect size ϕ = .47).

Conclusions:

This learning system was an effective educational method in maintaining and improving knowledge of proper PPE removal skills. The number of deviations from the required procedure decreased, and this reduction continued after 3 months.

Clinical trials identifier:

Evaluation of the Web materials for learning PPE removal skills in the setting of highly infectious diseases. University Hospital Medical Information Network, UMIN000042725: https://center6.umin.ac.jp/cgi-open-bin/ctr/ctr_view.cgi?recptno=R000048767
Drag force in granular shear flows: regimes, scaling laws and implications for segregation
Authors: Jing Lu , Ottino Julio M. , Umbanhowar Paul B. , Lueptow Richard M.
Published: September 2022

The drag force on a spherical intruder in dense granular shear flows is studied using discrete element method simulations. Three regimes of the intruder dynamics are observed depending on the magnitude of the drag force (or the corresponding intruder velocity) and the flow inertial number: a fluctuation-dominated regime for small drag forces; a viscous regime for intermediate drag forces; and an inertial (cavity formation) regime for large drag forces. The transition from the viscous regime (linear force-velocity relation) to the inertial regime (quadratic force-velocity relation) depends further on the inertial number. Despite these distinct intruder dynamics, we find a quantitative similarity between the intruder drag in granular shear flows and the Stokesian drag on a sphere in a viscous fluid for intruder Reynolds numbers spanning five orders of magnitude. Beyond this first-order description, a modified Stokes drag model is developed that accounts for the secondary dependence of the drag coefficient on the inertial number and the intruder size and density ratios. When the drag model is coupled with a segregation force model for intruders in dense granular flows, it is possible to predict the velocity of gravity-driven segregation of an intruder particle in shear flow simulations.
The energy density of meals and snacks consumed by young Australian adults (18–30 years old) are influenced by preparation location but not screen use nor social interactions: findings from the MYMeals wearable camera study
Authors: Chan Virginia , Davies Alyse , Wellard-Cole Lyndal , Allman-Farinelli Margaret
Published: September 2022

The present study examined the association of contextual factors (social and food preparation location) with the energy density of meals and snacks consumed in a sample of young Australian adults (18–30 years old) identified using wearable camera technology. Over three consecutive days, a subsample of young adults wore a wearable camera that captured images in 30 s intervals. Eating episodes from 133 participants were annotated for preparation location and social context (covering social interaction and screen use). Over the same period, participants completed daily 24 h recalls. The nutritional composition of meals and snacks was calculated by matching the items identified in the camera to the 24 h recall using time and date stamps. Self-reported data (weight and height) was used to calculate body mass index and (residential postcode) to assign socio-economic status. The association of context and demographic factors with energy density was determined using a mixed linear regression model employing the bootstrap method with bias-corrected and accelerated. In total, 1817 eating episodes were included in the analysis (n 8 preparation unclear and n 15 food components could not be identified excluded). Food prepared within the home was 1⋅1 kJ/g less energy-dense than other preparation locations. Lunches (CI −1⋅7 to −0⋅3) and dinners (CI −1⋅6 to −0⋅5) were both 1⋅0 kJ/g lower in energy density than breakfasts. Snacks were 3⋅5 kJ/g (CI 2⋅8–4⋅1) more energy-dense than breakfasts. Food prepared outside the home and food consumption during snacking appear to be adversely contributing to energy-dense food intake.
CANONICAL DECOMPOSITION AND QUIVER REPRESENTATIONS OF TYPE OVER FINITE FIELDS
Authors: CHEN QINGHUA , LIU YE
Published: September 2022

Let Q be a quiver of type
$\tilde {A}_n$
. Let
$\alpha =\alpha _1+\alpha _2+\cdots +\alpha _s$
be the canonical decomposition. For the polynomials
$M_Q(\alpha ,q)$
that count the number of isoclasses of representations of Q over
${\mathbb F}_q$
with dimension vector
$\alpha $
, we obtain a precise relation between the degree of
$M_Q(\alpha ,q)$
and that of
$\prod _{i=1}^{s} M_Q(\alpha _i,q)$
for an arbitrary dimension vector
$\alpha $
.
THE CORNERSTONE OF OUR LAW: EQUALITY, CONSISTENCY AND JUDICIAL REVIEW
Authors: Foran Michael
Published: September 2022

Equality before the law is a foundational principle of the common law and is of particular importance for administrative law, given the connection between judicial review and the rule of law. Analysis as to the precise requirements of this principle can help us better to understand the role that obligations to act consistently play within judicial review. This article will examine whether consistency ought to be classed as a separate ground of review and argue that this is unnecessary. Examination of the role that legal equality plays within common law reason generally will shed light on the role that it plays within administrative law in particular. Consistency is best conceived as a background principle, informed by the value of legal equality, housed within reasonableness review and not as a separate ground of review that could elide the distinction between review and appeal.
Concentrations of organotin compounds in aquatic biota in coastal waters of Johor, Malaysia
Authors: Ohji Madoka , Shibayama Kota , Harino Hiroya , Hayashizaki Ken-Ichi , Yusoff Fatimah Md. , Inoue Koji
Published: September 2022

The concentrations of organotin (OT) compounds, butyltin (BT) and phenyltin (PT), in aquatic organisms from Merambong and Tinggi Island, Malaysia, which differ in industrial and economic activities, were measured. Tributyltin (TBT) compounds among BTs ranged from 2.9–28 and <0.1–21 ng g−1 ww in aquatic organisms from Merambong and Tinggi Island, respectively. Triphenyltin (TPT) compounds among PTs ranged from <0.1–25 ng g−1 ww and <0.1–61 ng g−1 ww in aquatic organisms from Merambong and Tinggi Island, respectively. A survey of OT concentrations among the species of OT compounds revealed that the concentrations of BTs and PTs in crabs and clams were high while those in fish were low. Correlation analysis with stable nitrogen isotopes suggest that OT compounds did not accumulate in aquatic organisms through the food web. The measurement of OT compounds in tissues and organs of fish revealed that BT concentrations in liver were higher than those in muscle and that BTs were detected in eggs of fish.
Destructive plasticity and the microbial geopolitics of childhood malnutrition
Authors: du Plessis Gitte
Published: September 2022

Engaging Catherine Malabou's philosophical work on biological plasticity, this article combines microbiological and geopolitical analysis of the deadliest manifestations of childhood malnutrition. At the scale of microbiology, childhood malnutrition is a devastating condition and a mystery to which it seems microbiomes – the ecosystems of microbes in the gut – hold a key. At the scale of geopolitics, childhood malnutrition is a calamity generated by racial capitalism, poverty, and underdevelopment. What should we do with the plasticity that makes us? Malabou asks. Engaging philosophically with the plastic materiality of microbiomes in childhood malnutrition, the article focuses on destructive plasticity as an ontological alternative to what science on malnutrition pursues as a problem of causality. This leads to an argument that medicine, as well as humanitarian, security, and development interventions, must reckon with the destructive plasticity of what is in essence a political disease of annihilation. The article ends by speculating on resistance via the biological act of nurturing.
Elite Capture and Corruption: The Influence of Elite Collusion on Village Elections and Rural Land Development in China
Authors: Ruan Ji , Wang Peng
Published: September 2022

This article presents a qualitative empirical study of elite collusion and its influence on village elections and rural land development in China. Drawing on ethnographic data collected from two Chinese villages, it investigates how village cadres collude with other rural elites, using bribery, gift-giving and lavish banquets, to establish reciprocal ties with township officials and other public officials. Meanwhile, the officials make use of formal organizations to corruptly obtain profits and form alliances with village elites. The article examines how rural elites, especially village cadres, use this collusion to profit from the misuse of villagers’ collectively owned assets, the manipulation of village elections and the suppression of anti-corruption protests. It also offers new descriptive evidence of how recent reforms designed to strengthen the Party's overall leadership in rural governance may have actually facilitated elite capture and grassroots corruption.
Computationally Efficient Handling of Partially Coherent Electron Sources in (S)TEM Image Simulations via Matrix Diagonalization
Authors: Li Zhongbo , Rose Harald , Madsen Jacob , Biskupek Johannes , Susi Toma , Kaiser Ute
Published: September 2022

We introduce a novel method to improve the computational efficiency for (S)TEM image simulation by employing matrix diagonalization of the mixed envelope function (MEF). The MEF is derived by taking the finite size and the energy spread of the effective electron source into account, and is a component of the transmission cross-coefficient that accounts for the correlation between partially coherent waves. Since the MEF is a four-dimensional array and its application in image calculations is time-consuming, we reduce the computation time by using its eigenvectors. By incorporating the aperture function into the matrix diagonalization, only a small number of eigenvectors are required to approximate the original matrix with high accuracy. The diagonalization enables for each eigenvector the calculation of the corresponding image by employing the coherent model. The individual images are weighted by the corresponding eigenvalues and then summed up, resulting in the total partially coherent image.
Heat Stress During Arba’een Foot‐Pilgrimage (World’s Largest Gathering) Projected to Reach “Dangerous” Levels Due To Climate Change
Authors: Choi Yeon‐Woo , Eltahir Elfatih A. B.
Published: September 2022

Arba'een, a Muslim pilgrimage, is one of the largest annual mass gatherings in the world, with a date fixed according to the lunar calendar. Most pilgrims start their long walking journey from Basra/Najaf toward Karbala (about 70–500 km) and are significantly affected by outdoor weather conditions during this period. Here, based on simulations performed using carefully‐selected climate models, we project that heat stress during the pilgrimage is likely to reach a “dangerous” level, defined according to the US National Weather Service criteria, by the end of this century. Moreover, a significant increase in consecutive occurrence of hot days and hot nights is expected within the coming decades, which may cause a high incidence of heat‐related disorders as the human body may not recover from the daytime heat loads. Our study suggests that sound adaptation measures and stringent mitigation actions must be established to ensure a safe pilgrimage in the future.
Energy Partition at Collisionless Supercritical Quasi‐Perpendicular Shocks
Authors: Schwartz Steven J. , Goodrich Katherine A. , Wilson Lynn B. , Turner Drew L. , Trattner Karlheinz J. , Kucharek Harald , Gingell Imogen , Fuselier Stephen A. , Cohen Ian J. , Madanian Hadi , Ergun Robert E. , Gershman Daniel J. , Strangeway Robert J.
Published: September 2022

Collisionless shocks in astrophysical plasmas are important thermalizers, converting some of the incident flow energy into thermal energy, and non‐thermalizers, partitioning that energy in unequal ways to different particle species, subpopulations thereof, and field components. This partition problem, or equivalently the shock equation of state, lies at the heart of shock physics. Here, we employ systematically a framework to capture all the incident and downstream energy fluxes at two example traversals of the Earth's bow shock by the Magnetospheric Multiscale Mission. Here and traditionally, such data has to be augmented by information from other spacecraft, for example, to provide more accurate measurements of the cold solar wind beam. With some care and fortuitous choices, the total energy flux is conserved, including instantaneous measurements through the shock layer. The dominant incident proton ram energy is converted primarily into downstream proton enthalpy flux, the majority of which is actually carried by a small fraction of suprathermal protons. Fluctuations include both real and instrumental effects. Separating these, resolving the solar wind beam, and other considerations point the way to a dedicated mission to solve this energy partition problem across a full range of plasma and shock conditions.
Investigation of the Post‐Sunset Extra Electron Density Peak Poleward of the Equatorial Ionization Anomaly Southern Crest
Authors: Cai Xuguang , Qian Liying , Wang Wenbin , McInerney Joseph M. , Liu Han‐Li , Eastes Richard W.
Published: September 2022

The Global‐scale observation of limb and disk mission observed an extra electron density (Ne) peak after sunset at approximately 30°S near 40°W on 4 November 2019, which is poleward and immediately next to the southern equatorial ionization anomaly (EIA) crest. This Ne peak is different from previously reported mid‐latitude peaks that occur at all local times. The Whole Atmosphere Community Climate Model‐eXtended captures this phenomenon. Model diagnostic analysis reveals that the decrease of Ne and hmF2 between 15° and 25°S makes Ne near 30°S appear as an extra density peak relative to the southern EIA crest. Transport by poleward meridional wind decreases Ne between 15° and 25°S. Moreover, the upward E × B drifts due to pre‐reversal enhancement lift the plasma between the dip equator and 15°S but do not affect Ne much between 15° and 25°S with a low drift speed. Comparison with days without the extra peak shows the importance of E × B drift latitudinal variations on the extra peak formation. This study provides new insights into the dynamic variability of the nighttime ionosphere.
Multi‐Ion Oscillitons—Origin of Coherent Magnetospheric EMIC Waves
Authors: Sauer Konrad , Dubinin Eduard
Published: September 2022

The recent spacecraft observations by MMS and Van Allen Probes associated with electromagnetic ion cyclotron (EMIC) waves in the Earth magnetosphere emphasize the important role of multi‐ion plasma composition for generation and characteristics of these emissions. We show that main properties of the coherent EMIC waves can be explained with the concept of “multi‐ion oscillitons” (Sauer et al., 2001, https://doi.org/10.1029/2001GL013047). In a plasma with two types of ions of different masses (e.g., protons and oxygen ions), oscillitons arise from the exchange of momentum and energy between the two ion components, with the electromagnetic field acting as a mediator. At frequencies near cross‐over frequencies of different wave modes in the multi‐ion plasma the nonlinear resonance which strongly amplifies the seed unstable mode can be excited. A small phase difference in oscillations of different ion species leads to a nonlinear wave beating and generation of wave packets. The “resonance” frequency is characterized by a local maximum of the phase velocity and the coincidence of phase and group velocity. It is suggested that the oscillitons are triggered by the instability due to the proton temperature anisotropy and may survive outside the source region for long distances. The generation of coherent waves by oscillitons is of a general nature and may contribute to understand the manifold of phenomena in other space plasma environments in which the dynamics of minor ion admixtures cannot be neglected. The concept of oscillitons can also be applied to the momentum exchange between particle groups of the same mass, but different temperature.
Validation of the DSCOVR Spacecraft Mission Space Weather Solar Wind Products
Authors: Loto'aniu Paul T. M. , Romich K. , Rowland W. , Codrescu S. , Biesecker D. , Johnson J. , Singer H. J. , Szabo A. , Stevens M.
Published: September 2022

In this paper, we present a statistical validation of the Deep Space Climate Observatory (DSCOVR) solar wind data in the operational space weather archive. The DSCOVR observations of the interplanetary magnetic field (IMF), solar wind velocity, density, and temperature were hourly averaged and compared to measurements from NASA's Advanced Composition Explorer (ACE) and Wind spacecraft. Hourly averages, in general, show good correlations between the satellites for the IMF, solar wind velocity Geocentric Solar Ecliptic (GSE) vx‐component, and density. During the period covered by this study (spanning from late July 2016, when DSCOVR went operational, to the end of 2020), the DSCOVR products show no clear evidence of permanent degradation. However, for plasma parameters, there were periods of disagreement with ACE and Wind. The correlation coefficients (Pearson's r) calculated over the entire study period were similar or the same between DSCOVR versus Wind and DSCOVR versus ACE. For comparisons between DSCOVR and Wind, the IMF Bx and By GSE r were 0.94 and 0.96, respectively, while r for the IMF GSE Bz‐component was 0.88. For solar wind velocity, r was found to be 0.96 for the GSE vx‐component, compared with 0.30 for vy and 0.33 for vz. For density, r was found to be 0.84. DSCOVR density observations tend to overestimate compared to Wind values when the solar wind densities are low (below ∼5/cc), while the agreement between the two spacecraft on IMF measurements tends to increase with decreasing spatial separation.
Targeted inhibition of tumor-derived exosomes as a novel therapeutic option for cancer
Authors: Li Ye , Chen Zhuo-Kun , Duan Xu , Zhang He-Jing , Xiao Bo-Lin , Wang Kui-Ming , Chen Gang
Published: September 2022

Mounting evidence indicates that tumor-derived exosomes (TDEs) play critical roles in tumor development and progression by regulating components in the tumor microenvironment (TME) in an autocrine or paracrine manner. Moreover, due to their delivery of critical molecules that react to chemotherapy and immunotherapy, TDEs also contribute to tumor drug resistance and impede the effective response of antitumor immunotherapy, thereby leading to poor clinical outcomes. There is a pressing need for the inhibition or removal of TDEs to facilitate the treatment and prognosis of cancer patients. Here, in the present review, we systematically overviewed the current strategies for TDE inhibition and clearance, providing novel insights for future tumor interventions in translational medicine. Moreover, existing challenges and potential prospects for TDE-targeted cancer therapy are also discussed to bridge the gaps between progress and promising applications.
A novel role of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) in various regeneration-related functions of endometrial stem cells
Authors: Park Se-Ra , Kim Soo-Rim , Kim Seong-Kwan , Park Jeong-Ran , Hong In-Sun
Published: September 2022

Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) promotes the production and secretion of estrogen, which in turn stimulates the growth and maturation of ovarian follicles. Therefore, consecutive FSH treatment to induce ovarian hyperstimulation (superovulation) is still considered the most cost-effective option for the majority of assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs). However, a relatively high cancellation rate and subsequent low pregnancy outcomes (approximately 15%) are the most challenging aspects of this FSH-based ART. Currently, the main cause for this low implantation rate of FSH-based ART has not yet been revealed. Therefore, we hypothesized that these high cancellation rates with FSH-based superovulation protocols might be associated with the harmful effects of consecutive FSH treatment. Importantly, several recent studies have revealed that tissue-resident stem cell deficiency can significantly reduce cyclic endometrial regeneration and subsequently decrease the pregnancy outcome. In this context, we investigated whether FSH treatment could directly inhibit endometrial stem cell functions and consequently suppress endometrial regeneration. Consistent with our hypothesis, our results revealed for the first time that FSH could inhibit various regeneration-associated functions of endometrial stem cells, such as self-renewal, migration, and multilineage differentiation capacities, via the PI3K/Akt and ERK1/2 signaling pathways both in vitro and in vivo.
In vivo tractography of human locus coeruleus—relation to 7T resting state fMRI, psychological measures and single subject validity
Authors: Liebe Thomas , Kaufmann Jörn , Hämmerer Dorothea , Betts Matthew , Walter Martin
Published: September 2022

The locus coeruleus (LC) in the brainstem as the main regulator of brain noradrenaline gains increasing attention because of its involvement in neurologic and psychiatric diseases and its relevance in general to brain function. In this study, we created a structural connectome of the LC nerve fibers based on in vivo MRI tractography to gain an understanding into LC connectivity and its impact on LC-related psychological measures. We combined our structural results with ultra-high field resting-state functional MRI to learn about the relationship between in vivo LC structural and functional connections. Importantly, we reveal that LC brain fibers are strongly associated with psychological measures of anxiety and alertness indicating that LC-noradrenergic connectivity may have an important role on brain function. Lastly, since we analyzed all our data in subject-specific space, we point out the potential of structural LC connectivity to reveal individual characteristics of LC-noradrenergic function on the single-subject level.
Pharmacological targeting of CBP/p300 drives a redox/autophagy axis leading to senescence-induced growth arrest in non-small cell lung cancer cells
Authors: Ansari Mohammad Salik Zeya , Stagni Venturina , Iuzzolino Angela , Rotili Dante , Mai Antonello , Del Bufalo Donatella , Lavia Patrizia , Degrassi Francesca , Trisciuoglio Daniela
Published: September 2022

p300/CBP histone acetyltransferases (HAT) are critical transcription coactivators involved in multiple cellular activities. They act at multiple levels in non-small cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC) and appear, therefore, as promising druggable targets. Herein, we investigated the biological effects of A-485, the first selective (potent) drug-like HAT catalytic inhibitor of p300/CBP, in human NSCLC cell lines. A-485 treatment specifically reduced p300/CBP-mediated histone acetylation marks and caused growth arrest of lung cancer cells via activation of the autophagic pathway. Indeed, A-485 growth-arrested cells displayed phenotypic markers of cell senescence and failed to form colonies. Notably, disruption of autophagy by genetic and pharmacological approaches triggered apoptotic cell death. Mechanistically, A-485-induced senescence occurred through the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which in turn resulted in DNA damage and activation of the autophagic pathway. Interestingly, ROS scavengers were able to revert senescence phenotype and restore cell viability, suggesting that ROS production had a key role in upstream events leading to growth arrest commitment. Altogether, our data provide new insights into the biological effects of the A-485 and uncover the importance of the autophagic/apoptotic response to design a new combinatorial anticancer strategy.
Scalable anisotropic cooling aerogels by additive freeze-casting
Authors: Chan Kit-Ying , Shen Xi , Yang Jie , Lin Keng-Te , Venkatesan Harun , Kim Eunyoung , Zhang Heng , Lee Jeng-Hun , Yu Jinhong , Yang Jinglei , Kim Jang-Kyo
Published: September 2022

Cooling in buildings is vital to human well-being but inevitability consumes significant energy, adding pressure on achieving carbon neutrality. Thermally superinsulating aerogels are promising to isolate the heat for more energy-efficient cooling. However, most aerogels tend to absorb the sunlight for unwanted solar heat gain, and it is challenging to scale up the aerogel fabrication while maintaining consistent properties. Herein, we develop a thermally insulating, solar-reflective anisotropic cooling aerogel panel containing in-plane aligned pores with engineered pore walls using boron nitride nanosheets by an additive freeze-casting technique. The additive freeze-casting offers highly controllable and cumulative freezing dynamics for fabricating decimeter-scale aerogel panels with consistent in-plane pore alignments. The unique anisotropic thermo-optical properties of the nanosheets combined with in-plane pore channels enable the anisotropic cooling aerogel to deliver an ultralow out-of-plane thermal conductivity of 16.9 mW m−1 K−1 and a high solar reflectance of 97%. The excellent dual functionalities allow the anisotropic cooling aerogel to minimize both parasitic and solar heat gains when used as cooling panels under direct sunlight, achieving an up to 7 °C lower interior temperature than commercial silica aerogels. This work offers a new paradigm for the bottom-up fabrication of scalable anisotropic aerogels towards practical energy-efficient cooling applications.
Tracking changes in SARS-CoV-2 transmission with a novel outpatient sentinel surveillance system in Chicago, USA
Authors: Richardson Reese , Jorgensen Emile , Arevalo Philip , Holden Tobias M. , Gostic Katelyn M. , Pacilli Massimo , Ghinai Isaac , Lightner Shannon , Cobey Sarah , Gerardin Jaline
Published: September 2022

Public health indicators typically used for COVID-19 surveillance can be biased or lag changing community transmission patterns. In this study, we investigate whether sentinel surveillance of recently symptomatic individuals receiving outpatient diagnostic testing for SARS-CoV-2 could accurately assess the instantaneous reproductive number R(t) and provide early warning of changes in transmission. We use data from community-based diagnostic testing sites in the United States city of Chicago. Patients tested at community-based diagnostic testing sites between September 2020 and June 2021, and reporting symptom onset within four days preceding their test, formed the sentinel population. R(t) calculated from sentinel cases agreed well with R(t) from other indicators. Retrospectively, trends in sentinel cases did not precede trends in COVID-19 hospital admissions by any identifiable lead time. In deployment, sentinel surveillance held an operational recency advantage of nine days over hospital admissions. The promising performance of opportunistic sentinel surveillance suggests that deliberately designed outpatient sentinel surveillance would provide robust early warning of increasing transmission.