bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MACHINA SAPIENS
Authors: OKUYUCU ERGÜN Güneş
Published: May 2023

Bazı uzmanlara göre, yapay zekanın insanlık tarihi üzerindeki etkisi, başka her şeyin etkisinden daha fazla olacaktır. Kimi düşünürlere göre yapay zekâ teknolojisi, kontrollü bir biçimde ilerlememesi halinde insan türünün sona ermesine kadar gidecek felaketlere yol açabilir. Ekonomik açıdan ise yapay zeka, şimdiden milyar dolarlık bir sanayiye dönüşmüş bulunmaktadır. Yapay zekanın uygulama alanı, mühendislik, bilim, tıp, iş dünyası, muhasebe, finans, pazarlama, sigorta, ekonomi, borsa, otomotiv, eğitim ve tarım gibi pek çok sektörü kapsamaktadır. Dolayısıyla yapay zekanın etkilerinin -olumlu, olumsuz veya her iki yönde de- son derece büyük olacağına şüphe yoktur. Bu çalışmada önce, binlerce yıl geriye giden yapay zeka fikrinden bu yana yapay zekanın tarihsel gelişimine ve teknik açıdan makine öğrenme türlerine kısaca değinilmekte; ardından, yapay zekanın en güncel ve önemli tartışma konuları arasında yer alan sezgi, rastlantısal karar verme ve özgür irade gibi özelliklerin ve dolayısıyla yaratıcılık yetisinin yapay zekaya aktarılmasının teknik olarak mümkün olup olmadığı ve mümkünse bile tercih edilebilir bir durum olup olmadığı konuları ele alınmaktadır.
Penerapan Flower Pollination Algorithm dengan Teknik Clustering dalam Penyelesaian Masalah Diophantine
Authors: Karim Rahmat , Salim -
Published: May 2023

Permasalahan Diophantine adalah suatu permasalahan yang diwakili persamaan atau sistem persamaan yang memerlukan bilangan bulat non-negatif sebagai solusi. Permasalahan ini banyak dijumpai di berbagai bidang termasuk Computer engineering seperti pengelolaan jaringan dan sinyal. Akan tetapi belum ada metode umum yang secara efektif dapat menyelesaikan permasalahan Diophantine.  Tujuan utama dalam penelitian ini adalah untuk melakukan penyesuaian metode FPAC agar FPAC tidak hanya dapat digunakan pada permasalahan Multimodal tetapi juga dapat dijadikan sebagai alternatif pada permasalahaan Diophantine. Transformasi persamaan ataupun sistem persamaan ke dalam bentuk fungsi optimasi dan transformasi output bilangan real ke bilangan bulat pada setiap tahapan algoritma merupakan kunci utama FPAC dalam menyelesaikan permasalahan Diophantine. Hasil penelitian ini menunjukan bahwa FPAC dapat menemukan seluruh solusi dari persamaan Diophantine baik persamaan yang memiliki jumlah variabel dan pangkat yang berbeda maupun persamaan dalam bentuk eksponensial.  FPAC juga dapat menemukan seluruh solusi yang tersedia pada sistem persamaan Diophantine baik yang berdimensi rendah (kasus 1) maupun dimensi tinggi (kasus 2 dan 3). Secara umum, FPAC terbukti efektif dalam menyelesaikan permasalahan Diophantine baik dalam bentuk persamaan maupun sistem persamaan yang memiliki solusi tunggal maupun jamak dalam sekali running.
Penaksiran Kerusakan Jalan Dengan Metode Pavement Condition Index Berbasis Spasial
Authors: Hafel Rizal , Marsaoly Nurmaiyasa , Rauf Ichsan
Published: May 2023

Sarana dan prasarana transportasi memainkan peranan penting terhadap pertumbuhan sebuah wilayah. Jalan menjadi nfrastruktur yang akan menjamin konektivitas antar wilayah tetap terjadi, sehingga kualitas jalan akan menjamin kelancaran pergerakan moda transportasi yang melintas. Seiring waktu, tingkat pelayanan jalan akan mengalami penurunan, baik itu disebabkan oleh beban kendaraan, pengaruh lingkungan, maupun keausan material yang digunakan. Upaya preservasi untuk mempertahankan tingkat pelayanan jalan didasarkan pada hasil penilaian kerusakan jalan dan dinyatakan dalam sebuah indeks. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis kondisi perkerasan jalan yang lokusnya berada pada ruas jalan Tobelo – Podiwang, Maluku Utara. Ruas ini memiliki panjang jalan ± 48.200 m dengan lebar 6,00 m. Penaksiran kondisi perkerasan jalan ini dilakukan dengan menggunakan metode Pavement Condition Index (PCI). Adapun untuk memvisualisasikan hasil dari penilaian kondisi jalan, hasil penaksiran diintergasikan kedalam perangkat yang berbasis Sistem Informasi Geografi (SIG). Dari hasil penilaian yang dilakukan memperlihatkan bahwa secara umum ruas jalan Tobelo – Podiwang masih dalam kondisi layak digunakan. Hal ini didasarkan pada nilai indeks PCI yang diperoleh, dimana untuk sisi kiri diperoleh : 0,21% (poor), 3,94% (fair); 16,80% (satisfactory); dan 79,05% (good). Sementara untuk sisi kanan, kondisi jalan berdasarkan indeks menunjukkan 76,97% (good) dan 23,03% (satisfactory).
Performance Tuning Oracle 11g Database Melalui Inisial Paramater, Structure Database dan SQL Tuning. Studi Pada ERP SISFORBUN Dana Pensiun Perkebunan (DAPENBUN)
Authors: Samidi - , Hariyanto -
Published: May 2023

Dana Pensiun Perkebunan (DAPENBUN) sebagai pengelola manfaat pensiun bagi karyawan PTPN seluruh Indonesia beserta lembaga afiliasi dengan jumlah peserta per 31 Desember 2021 sebanyak 284.934 orang. Aplikasi SISFORBUN ini digunakan untuk memproses manfaat pensiun bagi seluruh peserta. Aplikasi berbasis web ini menggunakan database Oracle 11g dan sudah digunakan sejak tahun 2013, dengan seiring berjalanya waktu perkembangan data semakin banyak dengan jumlah record terbesar dalam satu table sebesar 26.696.667 record data, sehingga performa proses data semakin menurun. Atas dasar permasalahan tersebut perlu dilakukan penelitian untuk meningkat performa dari Aplikasi. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode SQL Tuning, Strukturing Object dan Initial Parameter Database. Setelah dilakukan pengujian dengan melakukan proses pembayaran Manfaat Pensiun pada laporan  manajemen nomor 18 (LM18), penulis dapat menyimpulkan bahwa setelah dilakukan optimasi, waktu yang diperlukan untuk proses pembayaran Manfaat Pensiun (LM18) menjadi lebih cepat dibandingkan sebelum dilakukan optimasi.
Ecological and biological structure of flora of devasted lands at surfur quarries
Authors: Oliferchuk V. , Shukel І. , Kuzyarin О.
Published: May 2023

The peculiarities of floristic structure on the devastated lands of Yavoriv and Podorozhnie sulfur quarries were analyzed based on ecological and cenotic, trophic and biomorphological structure. According to the collected herbarium material dated July 2022 on the area of Yavoriv sulfur quarry, 187 taxons of land plants were identified, which belong to 125 genera of 49 families. On the territory of Podorozhnie sulfur quarry, 160 species of land plants belonging to 116 genera of 40 families were identified. Species structure of plant communities on the devastated lands of sulfur quarries is rather diverse which proves heterogeneity of edaphic conditions of embriozems. On the territory of Yavoriv sulfur quarry, Asteraceae is the prevailing family (28 species, 24 genera), which is typical for Holarctic flora, Poaceae Barnhart (24 species, 18 genera) and Fabaceae Lindl. (21 species, 9 genera). Similarly, on the territory of Podorozhnie sulfur quarry, the prevailing families are Asteraceae (28 species, 24 genera), Poaceae Barnhart (20 species, 13 genera), Fabaceae Lindl. (16 species, 8 genera). The first six families comprise 111 species (59.35%) on the lands of Yavoriv sulfur quarry and 88 species (56.05%) — on the lands of Podorozhnie sulfur quarry. In the ecological structure of Yavoriv sulfur quarry, 53 species (or 28.34%) in relation to moisture are the dominant mezophites, in relation to natural lighting — heliophytes (184 species or 98.4%). Similar aspects were studied at Podorozhnie sulfur quarry — the dominant mezophytes in relation to moisture (67 species or 41.88%), mezophytes — in relation to nutrition (59 species or 36.88%), heliphytes — in relation to natural lighting (158 species or 98.75%). The structure of floral cenosis complexes of spontaneous flora on the devastated lands of the sulfur quarries is represented by 14 groups, including prevailing forestbush and meadow-steep types: accordingly for Yavoriv sulfur quarry — 36.9% and 22.46%, for Podorozhnie sulfur quarry — 45.63% and 20.63%. Insignificant part of segetal vegetation indicates certain stabilization of demutation processes. According to the classification by I. Serebryakov, herbaceous plants prevail among the studied cenoflora at the sulfur quarries: Yavoriv — 158 species (84.49%), Podorozhnie — 140 species (87.5%). However, the part of perennials is 53.48% and 55%, respectively. According to the mode of dissemination, spontaneous flora on the devastated lands of the sulfur quarries is mostly represented by allochorous plants: from 74.74% to 72.62%, respectively at the quarries. On the devastated lands of the sulfur quarries, four plant species listed in the Red Data Book of Ukraine were identified.
Factors predicting the outcome of allergen-specific nasal provocation test in children with grass pollen allergic rhinitis
Authors: Barreto M. , Tripodi S. , Arasi S. , Landi M. , Montesano M. , Pelosi S. , Potapova E. , Sfika I. , Villella V. , Travaglini A. , Brighetti M. A. , Matricardi P. M. , Dramburg S.
Published: May 2023

Background

Nasal provocation testing (NPT) is a reference methodology to identify the culprit allergen in patients with allergic rhinitis. Selecting the right allergen for NPT is particularly difficult in poly-sensitized patients with seasonal allergic rhinitis (SAR). Predictors of NPT outcomes may facilitate the proper use of this test or even substitute it.

Objective

To identify predictors of grass pollen NPT outcome from an array of clinical data, e-diary outcomes, and allergy test results in poly-sensitized pediatric patients with SAR.

Methods

Poly-sensitized, SAR patients with grass pollen allergy, participating in the @IT.2020 pilot project in Rome and Pordenone (Italy), participated in a baseline (T0) visit with questionnaires, skin prick testing (SPT), and blood sampling to measure total (ImmunoCAP, TFS, Sweden) and specific IgE antibodies to grass pollen extracts and their major allergenic molecules (ESEP, Euroimmun Labordiagnostika, Germany). During the pollen season, patients filled the AllergyMonitor® e-diary app measuring their symptoms, medication intake, and allergy-related well-being via the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). After the pollen season (T1), patients answered clinical questionnaires and underwent a nasal provocation test (NPT) with grass pollen extract.

Results

We recruited 72 patients (age 14.3 ± 2.8 years, 46 males) sensitized to grass and/or other pollens, including olive (63; 87.5%) and pellitory (49; 68.1%). Patients positive to grass pollen NPT (61; 84.7%), compared to the negative ones, had worse VAS values in the e-diary, larger SPT wheal reactions, and higher IgE levels, as well as specific activity to timothy and Bermuda grass extracts, rPhl p 5 and nCyn d 1. A positive NPT to grass pollen was predicted by an index combining the specific activity of IgE towards Phl p 5 and Cyn d 1 (AUC: 0.82; p < 0.01; best cut-off ≥7.25%, sensitivity 70.5%, specificity: 90.9%). VAS results also predicted NPT positivity, although with less precision (AUC: 0.77, p < 0.01; best cut-off ≥7, sensitivity: 60.7%, specificity: 81.8%).

Conclusions

An index combining the specific activity of IgE to rPhl p 5 and nCyn d 1 predicted with moderate sensitivity and high specificity the outcome of a grass pollen NPT in complex, poly-sensitized pediatric patients with seasonal allergic rhinitis. Further studies are needed to improve the index sensitivity and to assess its usefulness for NPT allergen selection or as an alternative to this demanding test procedure.
Applications of advances in mRNA-based platforms as therapeutics and diagnostics in reproductive technologies
Authors: Bafleh Wjdan S. , Abdulsamad Haia M. R. , Al-Qaraghuli Sally M. , El Khatib Riwa Y. , Elbahrawi Rawdah Taha , Abdukadir Azhar Mohamud , Alsawae Shaima M. , Dimassi Zakia , Hamdan Hamdan , Kashir Junaid
Published: May 2023

The recent COVID-19 pandemic led to many drastic changes in not only society, law, economics, but also in science and medicine, marking for the first time when drug regulatory authorities cleared for use mRNA-based vaccines in the fight against this outbreak. However, while indeed representing a novel application of such technology in the context of vaccination medicine, introducing RNA into cells to produce resultant molecules (proteins, antibodies, etc.) is not a novel principle. It has been common practice to introduce/inject mRNA into oocytes and embryos to inhibit, induce, and identify several factors in a research context, while such aspects have also been proposed as potential therapeutic and diagnostic applications to combat infertility in humans. Herein, we describe key areas where mRNA-based platforms have thus far represented potential areas of clinical applications, describing the advantages and limitations of such applications. Finally, we also discuss how recent advances in mRNA-based platforms, driven by the recent pandemic, may stand to benefit the treatment of infertility in humans. We also present brief future directions as to how we could utilise recent and current advancements to enhance RNA therapeutics within reproductive biology, specifically with relation to oocyte and embryo delivery.
A case report and literature review of myocardial infarction with nonobstructive coronary arteries (MINOCA) possibly due to acute coronary vasospasm induced by misoprostol
Authors: Hau Nguyen Viet , Han Luu Thi Kim , Minh Le Huu Nhat , Kiet Nguyen Anh , Phong Tang Tuan , Duong Nguyen Khanh , Yen Phan Thi Hoang , Vinh Nguyen Xuan , Hao Nguyen Quan Nhu , Nguyen Nguyen , Truyen Thien Tan Tri Tai , Le Nguyen Quoc Khanh
Published: May 2023

Coronary artery vasospasm (CVS), an uncommon cause of acute chest pain, can be provoked by vasoconstriction-induced medications. Misoprostol, a prostaglandin analog, is a safe medication to terminate a pregnancy. However, misoprostol can cause coronary artery vasospasm due to vasoconstrictor properties, leading to acute myocardial infarction with nonobstructive coronary arteries (MINOCA), especially in patients with a high risk for cardiovascular disease. We report a case of a 42-year-old female with a past medical history of hypertension who presented with ST-elevation myocardial infarction following the administration of a high-dose Misoprostol. The fact that coronary angiogram and intravascular ultrasound revealed normal coronary arteries suggested transient coronary vasospasm. CVS is a severe but rare cardiac adverse effect associated with high-dose misoprostol. This medication should be prescribed with caution and close monitoring, especially in those with pre-existing heart disease or cardiovascular risk factors. Our case raises awareness of severe cardiovascular complications that can be related to using misoprostol in high-risk patients.
Extracellular vesicles as biomarkers and modulators of atherosclerosis pathogenesis
Authors: Patel Sarvatit , Guo Mandy Kunze , Abdul Samad Majed , Howe Kathryn L.
Published: May 2023

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are small, lipid bilayer-enclosed structures released by various cell types that play a critical role in intercellular communication. In atherosclerosis, EVs have been implicated in multiple pathophysiological processes, including endothelial dysfunction, inflammation, and thrombosis. This review provides an up-to-date overview of our current understanding of the roles of EVs in atherosclerosis, emphasizing their potential as diagnostic biomarkers and their roles in disease pathogenesis. We discuss the different types of EVs involved in atherosclerosis, the diverse cargoes they carry, their mechanisms of action, and the various methods employed for their isolation and analysis. Moreover, we underscore the importance of using relevant animal models and human samples to elucidate the role of EVs in disease pathogenesis. Overall, this review consolidates our current knowledge of EVs in atherosclerosis and highlights their potential as promising targets for disease diagnosis and therapy.
Synergistic effect of endurance training and nettle leaf extract on the IDO1-KYN-AHR pathway homeostasis and inhibiting of liver toxicity in rats with STZ-induced diabetes
Authors: Haghshenas Rouhollah , Aftabi Younes , Doaei Saied , Gholamalizadeh Maryam
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Diabetes adversely affects a number of hepatic molecular pathways, including the kynurenine (KYN) pathway. KYN is produced by indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO) and activates the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR). This study evaluated the effect of endurance training (EndTr) and nettle leaf extract (NLE) on the IDO1-KYN-AHR pathway in the livers of rats with streptozotocin-induced diabetes.

Methods

We divided 48 rats into six groups: controls (Ct), treated with EndTr (EndTr), diabetes-induced (D), D treated with NLE (D + NLE), D treated with EndTr (D + EnTr), and D treated with EndTr and NLE (D + EndTr + NLE). EndTr, D + EnTr, and D + EndTr + NLE groups were subjected to training with running on treadmill for 8 weeks, 5 days per week, 25 min in first session to 59 min at last session with intensity of 55% to 65% VO2max. Using real-time PCR gene (Ahr, Cyp1a1, and Ido1) expressions and ELISA, malondialdehyde (MDA) and protein (IDO1, AHR, and CYP1A1) levels were determined in the liver samples.

Results

A significant three-way interaction of exercise, nettle, and diabetes was observed on the all variables (P< 0.001). In particular, significant increases in blood glucose level (BGL), in gene and protein expression, and in MDA and KYN levels were observed in the liver samples of the D group versus the Ct group (P< 0.05). BGL and liver MDA levels were significantly lower in the D + EndTr and D + NLE groups than that in the D group. However, the D + EndTr + NLE group showed a more significant decrease in these factors (P< 0.05). In addition, liver KYN levels were significantly lower in the EndTr group compared with that in the Ct group as well as in the D + EndTr + NLE and D + EndTr groups compared with that in the D groups (P< 0.05). Whereas both the EndTr and D + NLE groups showed lower Ahr expression and AHR level compared with the Ct and D groups, respectively (P< 0.05), the D + EndTr + NLE group showed a higher significant reduction in the AHR level than the D group (P< 0.05). The Cyp1a1 expression and IDO1 level significantly decreased only in the D + EndTr + NLE group compared to that in the D group (P< 0.05).

Conclusion

Overall, this study showed that the combination of EndTr and NLE may synergistically restore the imbalanced IDO1-KYN-AHR pathway in diabetic liver.
Finite element modeling of biomass hopper flow
Authors: Yi Hojae , Lanning Christopher J. , Dooley James H. , Puri Virendra M.
Published: May 2023

Hoppers are widely used biomass handling devices that channel bulk biomass from storage to subsequent handling equipment. Jenike’s longstanding approach, based on the Mohr-Coulomb model, has been successfully used to design hoppers handling cohesionless granular materials such as grains and other agricultural produces. However, designing a hopper to ensure reliable biomass flow is found to be challenging due to cohesion, irregular particle shape, and bulk material elastoplasticity. This study aims to address the biomass handling engineering challenge with alternative constitutive material models concerning the flow behavior of bulk solids. Finite element modeling is an approach that allows for implementation of different material models, whose underlying constitutive theories assist in investigating the origin and manifestation of bulk mechanical behavior of granular materials. This study focuses on the incipient gravity hopper flow of two types of biomass feedstocks, i.e., ground corn stover and Douglas fir wood. Three widely used constitutive material models, i.e., Mohr-Coulomb model, modified Cam-Clay model, and Drucker-Prager/Cap model, are implemented. Using the flow pattern represented by the volume of biomass exhibiting more than 7% of axial strain (Kamath and Puri, 1999), the finite element model predicts that the bulk corn stover particulate material forms an arch, which represents a hampered transition from the static state to the dynamic flow-state out of the hopper, whereas bulk Douglas fir wood particulate material develops a reliable mass flow pattern. A laboratory scale hopper was used to experimentally determine the biomass flow conditions, which were subsequently compared with the predicted onset of flow by a finite element model (FEM). The developed FEM was found to correctly predict the initiation of mass flow for the milled Douglas fir wood, whereas corn stover was predicted to establish a strong core flow suggesting an unreliable handling characteristic. This observation aligns with the reported poor handling of milled corn stover.
The role of the marine research infrastructures in the European marine observation landscape: present and future perspectives
Authors: Dañobeitia Juan José , Pouliquen Sylvie , Pade Nicolas , Arvanitidis Christos , Sanders Richard , Stanica Adrian , Gourcuff Claire , Petihakis George , Tegas Valentina , Favali Paolo
Published: May 2023

The ocean regulates the exchange, storage of carbon dioxide, plays a key role in global control of Earth climate and life, absorbs most of the heat excess from greenhouse gas emissions and provides a remarkable number of resources for the human being. Most of the geo-hazards occur in oceanic areas. Thus, high-quality systematic observations are necessary tools for improving our understanding, and subsequent assimilation to provide early warning systems. A holistic scientific approach for the understanding of the ocean’s interrelated processes requires coordinated and complementary monitoring and observation programmes. Research Infrastructures (RIs) are large-scale facilities that provide resources and services for the scientific communities to conduct high-level research and foster innovation. RIs benefit from strong governance and multi-annual funding from their member states with operational life spans in decades. RIs promote knowledge, outreach and education to public, private, and policy stakeholders, and they play a key role in enabling and developing research in all scientific domains and currently represent a growing share of coordinated investment in research, and also in providing essential observations to operational services such as Copernicus. They are strategically important for Europe to lead a global movement towards a data-driven, interconnected, open digital twin that brings together different disciplines, clean technologies, public and private sectors and a broad scientific/technological community, as well as education and training. In Europe several marine RIs have been established, which are maintained by national and European Union (EU) resources. The aims of these infrastructures are aligned with the key priorities of the UN Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development; and with the new European Research Area (ERA) Policy Agenda annexed to the Council conclusions on the ERA governance1, which set out 20 concrete actions for 2022-2024 to contribute to the priority areas defined in the EU Pact for R&I2. The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate that the combined expertise and assets of Europe’s marine RIs can form a comprehensive and holistic framework for long-term, sustainable integrated marine observation. Through this integration process the marine RIs can become better and better a significant pillar of the European Ocean Observing System (EOOS). Such a framework must be built as part of interfaces of interaction and promote not only scientific excellence but also innovation at all levels.
Biogeochemical cycling of chromium and chromium isotopes in the sub-tropical North Atlantic Ocean
Authors: Wang Wenhao , Goring-Harford Heather , Kunde Korinna , Woodward E. Malcolm S. , Lohan Maeve C. , Connelly Douglas P. , James Rachael H.
Published: May 2023

Chromium (Cr) is a redox-sensitive element and because Cr isotopes are fractionated by redox and/or biological processes, the Cr isotopic composition of ancient marine sediments may be used to infer changes in past seawater oxygenation or biological productivity. While there appears to be a ‘global correlation’ between the dissolved Cr concentration and Cr isotopic composition of seawater, there is ongoing debate about the relative importance of external sources and internal cycling on shaping the distribution of dissolved Cr that needs to be resolved to validate the efficacy of using Cr isotopes as a paleo proxy. Here, we present full water column depth profiles of total dissolved Cr (Cr(VI)+Cr(III)) and dissolved Cr isotopes (δ53Cr), together with ancillary data, for three stations along a transect (GEOTRACES GApr08) across the sub-tropical North Atlantic. Concentrations of dissolved Cr ranged between 1.84 and 2.63 nmol kg-1, and δ53Cr values varied from 1.06 to 1.42‰. Although atmospheric dust, hydrothermal vents and seabed sediments have the potential to modify the distribution of Cr in the oceans, based on our observations, there is no clear evidence for substantial input of Cr from these sources in our study region although benthic inputs of Cr may be locally important in the vicinity of hydrothermal vents. Subsurface waters (below the surface mixed layer to 700 m water depth) were very slightly depleted in Cr (by up to ~0.4 nmol kg-1), and very slightly enriched in heavy Cr isotopes (by up to ~0.14‰), relative to deeper waters and the lowest Cr concentrations and highest δ53Cr values coincided with lowest concentrations of colloidal (0.02 to 0.2 μm size fraction) Fe. We found no direct evidence for biological uptake of dissolved Cr in the oligotrophic euphotic zone or removal of Cr in modestly oxygen depleted waters (O2 concentrations ~130 μmol kg-1). Rather, we suggest removal of Cr (probably in the form of Cr(III)) in subsurface waters is associated with the formation of colloid aggregates of Fe-(oxyhydr)oxides. This process is likely enhanced by the high lithogenic particle load in this region, and represents a previously unrecognized export flux of Cr. Regeneration of Cr in deeper waters leads to subtly increased levels of Cr alongside decreased δ53Cr values at individual sites, but this trend is more obvious at the global scale, with δ53Cr values decreasing with increasing radiocarbon age of deep waters, from 1.16 ± 0.10‰ (1SD, n=11) in deep Atlantic waters to 0.77 ± 0.10‰ (1SD, n=25) in deep Pacific waters. Removal of relatively isotopically light Cr from subsurface waters onto particulate material and regeneration of this Cr back into the dissolved phase in deep waters partly accounts for the systematic relationship between δ53Cr and Cr concentrations in seawater discussed by other studies.
Factors limiting the spread of middle- and low-altitude fishes to the Qinghai-Tibet plateau
Authors: Li Songtao , Gu Haoran , Wang Yuanfu , Wang Zhijian
Published: May 2023

The distribution pattern of species is determined by the environment and their adaptability to the environment. Qinghai-Tibet Plateau has become a natural laboratory for studying adaptive evolution due to its extreme environmental characteristics such as low temperature, low oxygen, high salinity and high ultraviolet radiation (UVR). Fish are sensitive to the environmental stress, so they are ideal materials for studying high-altitude adaptation of animals. Previous studies have mainly focused on the adaptability of plateau species, but the reasons why plain species cannot spread to the plateau have been ignored. In this study, stress experiments and histological experiments were used to compare the tolerance of six Barbini fishes (family: Cyprinidae) distributed at different altitudes and regions to low temperature, low oxygen, salinity and UVR. Results showed that the tolerance of fishes to high-altitude environmental stress factors was closely related to the environmental stress of their main habitats. The high-altitude fish Gymnocypris eckloni had strong tolerance to all stress factors, while the other five fishes from middle and low altitudes could not adapt to single or multiple stress factors, with significant interspecific differences. Among these factors, middle- and low-altitude fishes showed common low tolerance to UVR, suggesting that high UVR, the factor lacking at low altitude areas, plays an important role. Moreover, during the uplift of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, Schizothorax fish disappeared from the middle of the plateau. We speculate that this was caused by its intolerance to the increasingly extreme plateau environment, especially salinity.
Termite-inspired metamaterials for flow-active building envelopes
Authors: Andréen David , Soar Rupert
Published: May 2023

In this article we investigate the performative potential of reticulated tunnel networks to act as drivers for selective airflows in building envelopes and thereby facilitate semi-passive climate regulation. We explore whether such transient flow can be used to create functionally graded metamaterials in bio-inspired, additively fabricated buildings. The tunnel networks are modelled on the egress complex found in the mound of certain macrotermite species. The hypothesis we explore is that oscillating airflow of low amplitude can be used to generate large scale turbulence within the network and thereby increase the mass transfer rates across the network. The hypothesis is tested through a series of 3-dimensional and 2-dimensional experiments where various geometries are exposed to a forced oscillation of the air or water column. The results are evaluated in the 3-dimesional experiments through tracer gas measurements, and in the 2-dimenstional experiments through visual qualitative assessment using fluorescein dye. We find that the oscillating fluid gives rise to large scale turbulence that causes a net mass transport across the tunnel network, and that this turbulence occurs when certain combinations of amplitude, frequency, and network geometry are achieved. Furthermore, we conclude that the net mass transfer is large enough to be functionally useful in a building envelope as a method to regulate either building interior climate or the envelope’s own microclimate.
The relationship between sleep and salivary and serum inflammatory biomarkers in adolescents
Authors: Alqaderi Hend , Abdullah Abeer , Finkelman Matthew , Abufarha Mohamed , Devarajan Sriraman , Abubaker Jehad , Ramesh Nikitha , Tavares Mary , Al-Mulla Fahd , Bin-Hasan Saadoun
Published: May 2023

Objectives

Poor sleep behavior can trigger an inflammatory response and contribute to the development of inflammatory diseases. Cytokines can act as indicators of inflammation and may precede the onset of inflammatory diseases. This study aimed to determine the association between sleep timing parameters (bedtime, sleep duration, sleep debt, and social jetlag) and the levels of nine serum and salivary inflammatory and metabolic biomarkers.

Methods

Data were collected from 352 adolescents aged 16–19 years enrolled in Kuwait’s public high schools. The levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-8 (IL-8), interleukin-10 (IL-10), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1), adiponectin, leptin, and insulin were measured from saliva and serum samples. We conducted mixed-effect multiple linear regression modeling to account for the school variable as a random effect to assess the relationship between the sleep variables and salivary and serum biomarkers. Mediation analysis was conducted to check if BMI was a mediator between bedtime and the biomarkers.

Results

There was a statistically significant elevation in serum IL-6 level associated with later bedtime (0.05 pg./mL, p = 0.01). Adolescents with severe sleep debt of ≥2 h had an increase in salivary IL-6 biomarker levels (0.38 pg./mL, p = 0.01) compared to those who had sleep debt of <1 h. Adolescents with sleep debt of ≥2 h had significantly higher levels of serum CRP (0.61 μg/mL, p = 0.02) than those without sleep debt. Additionally, we found that the inflammatory biomarkers (CRP, IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, VEGF, and MCP-1) and metabolic biomarkers (adiponectin, leptin, and insulin) had more statistically significant associations with the bedtime variables than with sleep duration variables. CRP, IL-6, and IL-8 were associated with sleep debt, and IL-6, VEGF, adiponectin, and leptin levels were associated with social jetlag. BMIz was a full mediator in the relationship between late bedtime and increased serum levels of CRP, IL-6, and insulin.

Conclusion

Adolescents who go to bed at or later than midnight had dysregulated levels of salivary and serum inflammatory biomarkers, suggesting that disrupted circadian rhythm can trigger higher levels of systemic inflammation and potentially exacerbate chronic inflammation and the risk of metabolic diseases.
Daylight-driven carbon exchange through a vertically structured microbial community
Authors: Moran James J. , Bernstein Hans C. , Mobberley Jennifer M. , Thompson Allison M. , Kim Young-Mo , Dana Karl L. , Cory Alexandra B. , Courtney Steph , Renslow Ryan S. , Fredrickson James K. , Kreuzer Helen W. , Lipton Mary S.
Published: May 2023

Interactions between autotrophs and heterotrophs are central to carbon (C) exchange across trophic levels in essentially all ecosystems and metabolite exchange is a frequent mechanism for distributing C within spatially structured ecosystems. Yet, despite the importance of C exchange, the timescales at which fixed C is transferred in microbial communities is poorly understood. We employed a stable isotope tracer combined with spatially resolved isotope analysis to quantify photoautotrophic uptake of bicarbonate and track subsequent exchanges across a vertical depth gradient in a stratified microbial mat over a light-driven diel cycle. We observed that C mobility, both across the vertical strata and between taxa, was highest during periods of active photoautotrophy. Parallel experiments with 13C-labeled organic substrates (acetate and glucose) showed comparably less exchange of C within the mat. Metabolite analysis showed rapid incorporation of 13C into molecules that can both comprise a portion of the extracellular polymeric substances in the system and serve to transport C between photoautotrophs and heterotrophs. Stable isotope proteomic analysis revealed rapid C exchange between cyanobacterial and associated heterotrophic community members during the day with decreased exchange at night. We observed strong diel control on the spatial exchange of freshly fixed C within tightly interacting mat communities suggesting a rapid redistribution, both spatially and taxonomically, primarily during daylight periods.
The impact of psychostimulants on central and peripheral neuro-immune regulation: a scoping review of cytokine profiles and their implications for addiction
Authors: Bravo Joana , Magalhães Catarina , Andrade Elva B. , Magalhães Ana , Summavielle Teresa
Published: May 2023

It is now well-accepted that psychostimulants act on glial cells causing neuroinflammation and adding to the neurotoxic effects of such substances. Neuroinflammation can be described as an inflammatory response, within the CNS, mediated through several cytokines, reactive oxygen species, chemokines and other inflammatory markers. These inflammatory players, in particular cytokines, play important roles. Several studies have demonstrated that psychostimulants impact on cytokine production and release, both centrally and at the peripheral level. Nevertheless, the available data is often contradictory. Because understanding how cytokines are modulated by psychoactive substances seems crucial to perspective successful therapeutic interventions, here, we conducted a scoping review of the available literature. We have focused on how different psychostimulants impact on the cytokine profile. Publications were grouped according to the substance addressed (methamphetamine, cocaine, methylphenidate, MDMA or other amphetamines), the type of exposure and period of evaluation (acute, short- or long-term exposure, withdrawal, and reinstatement). Studies were further divided in those addressing central cytokines, circulating (peripheral) levels, or both. Our analysis showed that the classical pro-inflammatory cytokines TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β were those more investigated. The majority of studies have reported increased levels of these cytokines in the central nervous system after acute or repeated drug. However, studies investigating cytokine levels during withdrawal or reinstatement have shown higher variability in their findings. Although we have identified fewer studies addressing circulating cytokines in humans, the available data suggest that the results may be more robust in animal models than in patients with problematic drug use. As a major conclusion, an extensive use of arrays for relevant cytokines should be considered to better determine which cytokines, upon the classical ones, may be involved in the progression from episodic use to the development of addiction. A concerted effort is still necessary to address the link between peripheral and central immune players, including from a longitudinal perspective. Until there, the identification of new biomarkers and therapeutic targets to envision personalized immune-based therapeutics will continue to be unlikely.
Matter-antimatter rearrangements using the R-matrix method
Authors: Kasoar Elliott , Plummer Martin , Van Lydon Lara , Law Mark M.
Published: May 2023

Antihydrogen atoms, H―, are now routinely created and can be stored for long enough to allow comparison with ordinary matter. A major goal of these efforts is to test potential physics beyond the Standard Model. This will require further developments in the experiments including the accumulation of more antihydrogen atoms and their storage over longer times. The latter is limited by the unavoidable presence of normal hydrogen molecules. Interactions of H― with H2 lead to the destruction of the hard-won antimatter. Little is known about these interactions but quantitative information will be crucial in guiding experimental developments. Physically realistic modelling of rearrangement scattering of “heavy” antimatter particles (antiprotons, p―, and antihydrogen atoms) by normal matter molecules, such as H2 + H―→ Pn + Ps + H (where Pn represents protonium and Ps positronium), requires the development of new theoretical and computational methodologies. R-matrix theory offers a strong prospect for tackling such problems having proved itself in atomic, molecular and optical physics. It divides the problem into a computationally demanding but energy-independent inner region and simpler energy-dependent outer regions. We propose to adapt the new RmatReact ultracold chemistry approach for the more complex molecular matter-antimatter problems. Here, developments required for the inner region, the boundary and outer regions are outlined. We also report some preliminary bound-state calculations on the {p,p,p―} system and a study of the required mixed coordinate systems for the general effective 3-body case and their transformations at the R-matrix boundary surfaces.
Transformative experience and informed consent to psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy
Authors: Jacobs Edward
Published: May 2023

Just as psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy (PAP) represents a clinical innovation that may need to be accommodated with corresponding theoretical and methodological innovations, there is growing awareness that the tools, normative frameworks, and standard practices of our clinical ethics may also need to be adapted, renewed, or replaced to accommodate its unusual features. Drawing on L. A. Paul's work on “Transformative Experience,” I argue that the acute and long-term effects that are repeatedly reported following the administration of psychedelic drugs, including in clinical contexts, are epistemically inaccessible at the point of deciding to take them. By virtue of both the so-called “mystical” experiences that frequently arise during PAP, and the long-term shifts to outlooks, values, and priorities that can follow treatment, the processes of decision-making that are normatively expected of patients run aground. If this framing is correct, then prospective patients cannot meet the requirement of understanding that is one of the principal analytic components of informed consent. The role of understanding in supporting two functions of informed consent—avoiding unauthorized trespass against patients and supporting values-aligned decision-making—is explored, and I argue that, while the normative standard for the first function may be met by extant suggestions for enhancing the consenting process for PAP, the latter function remains unattainable. In light of this, the consequences for the ethical preparation of prospective patients are considered.
The impact of the Russian-Ukrainian war on the mental health of Italian people after 2 years of the pandemic: risk and protective factors as moderators
Authors: Mottola Francesca , Gnisci Augusto , Kalaitzaki Argyroula , Vintilă Mona , Sergi Ida
Published: May 2023

Objective

This contribution aimed at investigating the moderating role of risk (e.g., the negative influence of COVID-19 on mental health) and protective (e.g., post-traumatic growth) factors on the relationship between the concern for war and stress and anxiety/depression levels among Italian people.

Methods

A questionnaire that included sociodemographic characteristics, the Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-4), the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-4), the Brief Resilience Scale (BRS), the Post-Traumatic Growth Inventory (PTGI), and questions formulated ad hoc about concern for war was administered online. A sample of 755 participants (65.4% females, mean age = 32.39, SD = 12.64, range = 18–75) was recruited by convenience and snowball sampling. The researchers spread the link to the questionnaire to their acquaintances asking them to fill it out and to recruit other people.

Results

Results showed that concern for war significantly augmented the levels of stress and anxiety/depression in Italian people. Being a healthcare professional or having a chronic illness negatively moderated the effect of concern for war on stress and anxiety/depression. Instead, the negative influence of COVID-19 on mental health positively moderated the effect of concern for war on stress. Moreover, the overall positive changes after trauma and four of its five scales (i.e., Relating to Others, New Possibilities, Personal Strength, and Spiritual Change), negatively moderated the effect of concern for war on anxiety/depression.

Conclusions

In conclusion, concern about the Russian-Ukrainian war affects the mental health of the Italian population even if they are not directly involved in the conflict.
Impairment of arbitration between model-based and model-free reinforcement learning in obsessive–compulsive disorder
Authors: Ruan Zhongqiang , Seger Carol A. , Yang Qiong , Kim Dongjae , Lee Sang Wan , Chen Qi , Peng Ziwen
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD) is characterized by an imbalance between goal-directed and habitual learning systems in behavioral control, but it is unclear whether these impairments are due to a single system abnormality of the goal-directed system or due to an impairment in a separate arbitration mechanism that selects which system controls behavior at each point in time.

Methods

A total of 30 OCD patients and 120 healthy controls performed a 2-choice, 3-stage Markov decision-making paradigm. Reinforcement learning models were used to estimate goal-directed learning (as model-based reinforcement learning) and habitual learning (as model-free reinforcement learning). In general, 29 high Obsessive–Compulsive Inventory-Revised (OCI-R) score controls, 31 low OCI-R score controls, and all 30 OCD patients were selected for the analysis.

Results

Obsessive–compulsive disorder (OCD) patients showed less appropriate strategy choices than controls regardless of whether the OCI-R scores in the control subjects were high (p = 0.012) or low (p < 0.001), specifically showing a greater model-free strategy use in task conditions where the model-based strategy was optimal. Furthermore, OCD patients (p = 0.001) and control subjects with high OCI-R scores (H-OCI-R; p = 0.009) both showed greater system switching rather than consistent strategy use in task conditions where model-free use was optimal.

Conclusion

These findings indicated an impaired arbitration mechanism for flexible adaptation to environmental demands in both OCD patients and healthy individuals reporting high OCI-R scores.
Dynamic work trajectories and their interplay with family over the life course
Authors: Han Xiaowen , Mortimer Jeylan T.
Published: May 2023

This review examines major bodies of literature, interrelated but usually considered separately, focused on work trajectories and their intersections with family dynamics through the life course. It begins with a consideration of the life course paradigm, which draws attention to the temporal dimensions of human lives, and recently developed analytic techniques that are well-suited to empirical investigation of life course transitions and trajectories over time. The review proceeds to examine empirical research on work career mobility (including both inter- and intra-generational mobility) measured as either trajectories of continuous outcomes or sequences of categorical outcomes, and their long-term consequences for socioeconomic attainment. Work-family trajectories are then addressed, focusing on the impacts of family on work, notably expressed in the motherhood wage penalty, and how family structure and processes affect long-term labor market outcomes. Research documents considerable heterogeneity in work-family dynamics over the life course across social groups with unequal resources. The review concludes with an assessment of the interplay of work and family trajectories studied longitudinally and makes recommendations for future research. It is argued that while extant studies of the work-family interface are compatible with, and sometimes deliberately reflect, a life course perspective, these bodies of research would benefit from more fully incorporating the life course principles of “agency” and “time and place”.