bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clever-1 positive macrophages in breast cancer
Authors: Mutka Minna , Virtakoivu Reetta , Joensuu Kristiina , Hollmén Maija , Heikkilä Päivi
Published: August 2022

Purpose

Common Lymphatic Endothelial and Vascular Endothelial Receptor 1 (Clever-1) is expressed by a subset of immunosuppressive macrophages and targeting the receptor with therapeutic antibodies has been shown to activate T-cell-mediated anti-cancer immunity. The aim of this research was to study Clever-1 expression in breast cancer. Specifically, how Clever-1 + macrophages correlate with clinicopathologic factors, Tumor Infiltrating Lymphocytes (TILs) and prognosis.

Methods

Tissue microarray blocks were made from 373 primary breast cancer operation specimens. Hematoxylin and Eosin (H&E-staining) and immunohistochemical staining with Clever-1, CD3, CD4 and CD8 antibodies were performed. Differences in quantities of Clever-1 + macrophages and TILs were analyzed. Clever-1 + cell numbers were correlated with 25-year follow-up survival data and with breast cancer clinicopathologic parameters.

Results

Low numbers of intratumoral Clever-1 + cells were found to be an independent adverse prognostic sign. Increased numbers of Clever-1 + cells were found in high grade tumors and hormone receptor negative tumors. Tumors that had higher amounts of Clever-1 + cells also tended to have higher amounts of TILs.

Conclusion

The association of intratumoral Clever-1 + macrophages with better prognosis might stem from the function of Clever as a scavenger receptor that modulates tumor stroma. The association of Clever-1 + macrophages with high number of TILs and better prognosis indicates that immunosuppression by M2 macrophages is not necessarily dampening adaptive immune responses but instead keeping them in control to avoid excess inflammation.
Components Related to Long-Term Effects in the Intra- and Interpersonal Domains: A Meta-Analysis of Universal School-Based Interventions
Authors: Mertens E. C. A. , Deković M. , van Londen M. , Spitzer J. E. , Reitz E.
Published: July 2022

The aims of the present meta-analysis were to (1) examine long-term effects of universal secondary school-based interventions on a broad range of competencies and problems and (2) analyze which intervention components were related to stronger or weaker intervention effects at follow-up. Fifty-four studies of controlled evaluations (283 effect sizes) reporting on 52 unique interventions were included. Long-term intervention effects were significant but small; effect sizes ranged from .08 to .23 in the intrapersonal domain (i.e., subjective psychological functioning) and from .10 to .19 in the interpersonal domain (i.e., social functioning). Intervention components were generally related to effects on specific outcomes. Some components (e.g., group discussions) were even related to both stronger and weaker effects depending on the assessed outcome. Moreover, components associated with long-term effects differed from those associated with short-term effects. Our findings underscore the importance of carefully selecting components to foster long-term development on specific outcomes.

PROSPERO registration number: CRD42019137981.
The Tutor of Resilience Program with Children Who Have Experienced Maltreatment: Mothers’ Involvement Matters
Authors: Giordano F. , Salimbeni C. Taurelli , Jefferies P.
Published: August 2022

Resilience is a dynamic process involving the presence and interaction of personal and environmental factors that modify the impact of adversity. Resilience-building interventions are therefore important for improving trauma-related outcomes in children and caregivers exposed to adversity. This study examines the impact of the Tutor of Resilience (TOR) program on beneficiaries’ trauma-related symptoms and on mother–child interactions in a group of children exposed to maltreatment (N = 186; mean age = 11.95; SD = 2.50). Assessments were completed at baseline and post-intervention. RM-ANOVAs indicated significant improvements for most trauma symptoms (anxiety, anger, post-traumatic stress, and disassociation, but not depression) in the intervention group relative to a control group (N = 88; mean age = 10.76; SD = 2.57), and indicated further improvements to anxiety and dissociation for the intervention group when mothers were involved. Mother–child interactions also improved over time, as did their overall trauma symptoms and distress. Findings support the effectiveness of the ToR, especially when involving mothers.
Optimising the zoospore release, germination, development of gametophytes and formation of sporophytes of Ecklonia radiata
Authors: Praeger Christina , Magnusson Marie , Lawton Rebecca
Published: August 2022

The kelp Ecklonia radiata has become a target for controlled cultivation. However, to date there are no standardised protocols for the hatchery stage of this species that result in high rates of germination, gametophyte development and transition to sporophytes. Therefore, the objective of this study was to quantify the effect of photoperiod, light intensity, temperature, nutrient media and use of GeO2 on the key hatchery processes of germination, gametophyte development and transition to sporophytes in controlled laboratory experiments. Germination of E. radiata was high (≥ 85%) throughout the study, regardless of treatments. Temperature had a major effect on the length of gametophytes, which increased with increasing temperature. The formation of sporophytes was favoured when individuals were maintained under 17 °C continuously, while reduced by approximately 30% when using F/2 compared to PES nutrient media. Overall, the recommended conditions for the hatchery stage of E. radiata are to maintain cultures under a 12 h L:12 h D photoperiod at 17 °C as this resulted in higher germination rates, good gametophyte development and higher transition to sporophytes compared to other treatments. Moreover, the use of GeO2 has to be limited to no more than 2 days as extended use has detrimental effects on the development of sporophytes. Finally, storage of sorus-bearing fronds of sporophytes up to 4 days after the collection from the field generally increased the number of released zoospores and is a simple mechanism to increase the fertility of brood stock.
Educational reform and teachers’ agency in reconstructing pedagogical practices in Kazakhstan
Authors: Yakavets Natallia , Winter Liz , Malone Kathy , Zhontayeva Zhanyl , Khamidulina Zarina
Published: August 2022

This paper explores how schoolteachers in Kazakhstan engaged with the Renewed Content of Education (RCE) that has been introduced by the Government, and how changes in their beliefs and understandings influenced classroom practice. The study draws on the ecological model of teacher agency and elaborates on factors that contribute to the formation of teacher agency. The study used a mixed methods research design and is based on data collected over two years in rural and urban schools across three regions of Kazakhstan. Altogether, 227 teachers having different levels of experience with the new curriculum were involved in focus group discussions. The findings demonstrate that the majority of teachers acknowledged the value of the RCE, its short- and long-term benefits for students, and the broader aim of boosting the economic competitiveness of the country. At the same time, the findings suggest that, while a surface change occurred in teachers’ beliefs, their pedagogical practices, and the learning context, there is limited evidence that the teachers moved fully to new ways of teaching and embedded the principles of the RCE in practice. Through our findings, we verified the centrality of socially dynamic relationships in educational change. Teachers shared agency in developing their own rules and routines for collaboration. This paper adds to research on educational change in an international context by showing that the scope for teacher agency in reform implementation increases when teachers are able to develop deep reform-oriented beliefs, discourses, and pedagogical understanding.
Mechanical, electrical, thermal and tribological behavior of epoxy resin composites reinforced with waste hemp-derived carbon fibers
Authors: Bartoli Mattia , Duraccio Donatella , Faga Maria Giulia , Piatti Erik , Torsello Daniele , Ghigo Gianluca , Malucelli Giulio
Published: August 2022

Short hemp fibers, an agricultural waste, were used for producing biochar by pyrolysis at 1000 °C. The so-obtained hemp-derived carbon fibers (HFB) were used as filler for improving the properties of an epoxy resin using a simple casting and curing process. The addition of HFB in the epoxy matrix increases the storage modulus while damping factor is lowered. Also, the incorporation of HFB induces a remarkable increment of electrical conductivity reaching up to 6 mS/m with 10 wt% of loading. A similar trend is also observed during high-frequency measurements. Furthermore, for the first time wear of these composites has been studied. The use of HFB is an efficient method for reducing the wear rate resistance and the friction coefficient (COF) of the epoxy resin. Excellent results are obtained for the composite containing 2.5 wt% of HFB, for which COF and wear rate decrease by 21% and 80%, respectively, as compared with those of the unfilled epoxy resin. The overall results prove how a common waste carbon source can significantly wide epoxy resin applications by a proper modulation of its electrical and wear properties.

Graphical abstract
Identification of Kuroshio meanderings south of Japan via a topological data analysis for sea surface height
Authors: Sakajo Takashi , Ohishi Shun , Uda Tomoki
Published: July 2022

This study proposes an algorithm to identify stable Kuroshio meanderings by extracting topological features from a sea surface height (SSH) gridded dataset in 1993–2020. Based on the mathematical theory of topological classifications for streamline patterns, the algorithm provides a unique symbolic representation and a discrete graph structure, which is referred to as the partially cyclically ordered rooted tree (COT) representation and the Reeb graph, respectively, to structurally stable Hamiltonian vector fields. We have confirmed that the temporal variations in the Kuroshio southernmost position south of the Tokai district captured by the algorithm are well consistent with the existing results by the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA). The algorithm based on the topology detects five meandering periods: The three of them correspond to large meandering events detected by the JMA, while the two of them are offshore non-large meandering events. The topological data analysis reveals that a large cyclonic eddy inside of the meandering is split into two small eddies near the termination of the most meandering events.
Explainable online ensemble of deep neural network pruning for time series forecasting
Authors: Saadallah Amal , Jakobs Matthias , Morik Katharina
Published: August 2022

Both the complex and evolving nature of time series data make forecasting among one of the most challenging tasks in machine learning. Typical methods for forecasting are designed to model time-evolving dependencies between data observations. However, it is generally accepted that none of them are universally valid for every application. Therefore, methods for learning heterogeneous ensembles by combining a diverse set of forecasters together appears as a promising solution to tackle this task. While several approaches in the context of time series forecasting have focused on how to combine individual models in an ensemble, ranging from simple and enhanced averaging tactics to applying meta-learning methods, few works have tackled the task of ensemble pruning, i.e. individual model selection to take part in the ensemble. In addition, in classical ML literature, ensemble pruning techniques are mostly restricted to operate in a static manner. To deal with changes in the relative performance of models as well as changes in the data distribution, we employ gradient-based saliency maps for online ensemble pruning of deep neural networks. This method consists of generating individual models’ performance saliency maps that are subsequently used to prune the ensemble by taking into account both aspects of accuracy and diversity. In addition, the saliency maps can be exploited to provide suitable explanations for the reason behind selecting specific models to construct an ensemble that plays the role of a forecaster at a certain time interval or instant. An extensive empirical study on many real-world datasets demonstrates that our method achieves excellent or on par results in comparison to the state-of-the-art approaches as well as several baselines. Our code is available on Github (https://github.com/MatthiasJakobs/os-pgsm/tree/ecml_journal_2022).
Recursive tree grammar autoencoders
Authors: Paaßen Benjamin , Koprinska Irena , Yacef Kalina
Published: August 2022

Machine learning on trees has been mostly focused on trees as input. Much less research has investigated trees as output, which has many applications, such as molecule optimization for drug discovery, or hint generation for intelligent tutoring systems. In this work, we propose a novel autoencoder approach, called recursive tree grammar autoencoder (RTG-AE), which encodes trees via a bottom-up parser and decodes trees via a tree grammar, both learned via recursive neural networks that minimize the variational autoencoder loss. The resulting encoder and decoder can then be utilized in subsequent tasks, such as optimization and time series prediction. RTG-AEs are the first model to combine three features: recursive processing, grammatical knowledge, and deep learning. Our key message is that this unique combination of all three features outperforms models which combine any two of the three. Experimentally, we show that RTG-AE improves the autoencoding error, training time, and optimization score on synthetic as well as real datasets compared to four baselines. We further prove that RTG-AEs parse and generate trees in linear time and are expressive enough to handle all regular tree grammars.
Mitochondrial Changes in Rat Brain Endothelial Cells Associated with Hepatic Encephalopathy: Relation to the Blood–Brain Barrier Dysfunction
Authors: Milewski Krzysztof , Orzeł-Gajowik Karolina , Zielińska Magdalena
Published: August 2022

The mechanisms underlying cerebral vascular dysfunction and edema during hepatic encephalopathy (HE) are unclear. Blood–brain barrier (BBB) impairment, resulting from increased vascular permeability, has been reported in acute and chronic HE. Mitochondrial dysfunction is a well-documented result of HE mainly affecting astrocytes, but much less so in the BBB-forming endothelial cells. Here we review literature reports and own experimental data obtained in HE models emphasizing alterations in mitochondrial dynamics and function as a possible contributor to the status of brain endothelial cell mitochondria in HE. Own studies on the expression of the mitochondrial fusion-fission controlling genes rendered HE animal model-dependent effects: increase of mitochondrial fusion controlling genes opa1, mfn1 in cerebral vessels in ammonium acetate-induced hyperammonemia, but a decrease of the two former genes and increase of fis1 in vessels in thioacetamide-induced HE. In endothelial cell line (RBE4) after 24 h ammonia and/or TNFα treatment, conditions mimicking crucial aspects of HE in vivo, we observed altered expression of mitochondrial fission/fusion genes: a decrease of opa1, mfn1, and, increase of the fission related fis1 gene. The effect in vitro was paralleled by the generation of reactive oxygen species, decreased total antioxidant capacity, decreased mitochondrial membrane potential, as well as increased permeability of RBE4 cell monolayer to fluorescein isothiocyanate dextran. Electron microscopy documented enlarged mitochondria in the brain endothelial cells of rats in both in vivo models. Collectively, the here observed alterations of cerebral endothelial mitochondria are indicative of their fission, and decreased potential of endothelial mitochondria are likely to contribute to BBB dysfunction in HE.
Magnetic resonance imaging findings of cystic ovarian tumors: major differential diagnoses in five types frequently encountered in daily clinical practice
Authors: Ohya Ayumi , Fujinaga Yasunari
Published: August 2022

There are many types of ovarian tumors, and these different types often form cystic masses with a similar appearance, which can make their differentiation difficult. However, with the exclusion of rare ovarian tumors, the number of ovarian tumors encountered in daily practice is somewhat fixed. It goes without saying that magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is useful for differentiating ovarian tumors. In this review, we summarize the differential diagnoses for each of the five types of MRI findings commonly encountered in daily practice. First, unilocular cystic masses without mural nodules/solid components include benign lesions such as serous cystadenoma, functional cysts, surface epithelial inclusion cysts, paratubal cysts, and endometriosis. Second, multilocular cystic ovarian lesions include mucinous tumors and ovarian metastases. It should be noted that mucinous tumors may be diagnosed as borderline or carcinoma, even if no solid component is observed. Third, cystic lesions with mural nodules that are unrelated to endometriosis include serous borderline tumor and serous carcinoma. Cystic lesions with solid components are more likely to be malignant, but some may be diagnosed as benign. Fourth, ovarian tumors deriving from endometriosis include seromucinous borderline tumors, endometrioid carcinoma, and clear cell carcinoma. These tumors sometimes need to be differentiated from serous tumors. Finally, cystic lesions with lipid contents include teratoma-related tumors. In mature cystic teratoma, mural nodules (called “Rokitansky protuberance” or “dermoid nipple”) are sometimes seen, but they do not suggest malignancy. Some of these lesions can be diagnosed accurately by considering their characteristic imaging findings, their changes over time, MRI findings other than those of the primary lesion, and information from other modalities such as tumor markers. To ensure the optimal treatment for ovarian tumors, it is important to estimate the histological type as well as to diagnose whether a lesion is benign or malignant.
Role of prognostic scores in predicting in-hospital mortality and failure of non-invasive ventilation in adults with COVID-19
Authors: Innocenti Francesca , Lazzari Cristian , Paolucci Elisa , De Paris Anna , Lagomarsini Alessia , Guerra Federica , Alleonato Patrizia , Casalini Lisa , Buggea Michele , Caldi Francesca , Zanobetti Maurizio , Pieralli Filippo , Guazzini Giulia , Lastraioli Lisa , Luise Fabio , Milia Alessandro , Sammicheli Lucia , Maddaluni Lucia , Lavorini Federico , Pini Riccardo
Published: August 2022

We tested the prognostic performance of different scores for the identification of subjects with acute respiratory failure by COVID-19, at risk of in-hospital mortality and NIV failure. We conducted a retrospective study, in the Medical High-Dependency Unit of the University-Hospital Careggi. We included all subjects with COVID-19 and ARF requiring non-invasive ventilation (NIV) between March 2020 and January 2021. Clinical parameters, the HACOR score (Heart rate, Acidosis, Consciousness, Oxygenation, Respiratory Rate) and ROX index ((SpO2/FiO2)/respiratory rate) were collected 3 (-3) and 1 day (-1) before the NIV initiation, the first day of treatment (Day0) and after 1 (+1), 2 (+2), 5 (+5), 8 (+8) and 11 (+11) of treatment. The primary outcomes were in-hospital mortality and NIV failure. We included 135 subjects, mean age 69±13 years, 69% male. Patients, who needed mechanical ventilation, showed a higher HACOR score (Day0: 6 [5-7] vs 6 [6-7], p=.057; Day+2: 6 [6-6] vs 6 [4-6], p=.013) and a lower ROX index (Day0: 4.2±2.3 vs 5.1±2.3, p=.055; Day+2: 4.4±1.2.vs 5.5±1.3, p=.001) than those with successful NIV. An HACOR score >5 was more frequent among nonsurvivors (Day0: 82% vs 58%; Day2: 82% vs 48%, all p<0.01) and it was associated with in-hospital mortality (Day0: RR 5.88, 95%CI 2.01-17.22; Day2: RR 4.33, 95%CI 1.64-11.41) independent to age and Charlson index. In conclusion, in subjects treated with NIV for ARF caused by COVID19, respiratory parameters collected after the beginning of NIV allowed to identify those at risk of an adverse outcome. An HACOR score >5 was independently associated with increased mortality rate.
Laser Powder Bed Fusion of ODS 14YWT from Gas Atomization Reaction Synthesis Precursor Powders
Authors: Saptarshi Sourabh , deJong Matthew , Rock Christopher , Anderson Iver , Napolitano Ralph , Forrester Jennifer , Lapidus Saul , Kaoumi Djamel , Horn Timothy
Published: August 2022

Laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) additive manufacturing (AM) is a promising route for the fabrication of oxide dispersion strengthened (ODS) steels. In this study, 14YWT ferritic steel powders were produced by gas atomization reaction synthesis (GARS). The rapid solidification resulted in the formation of stable, Y-containing intermetallic Y2Fe17 on the interior of the powder and a stable Cr-rich oxide surface. The GARS powders were consolidated with LPBF. Process parameter maps identified a stable process window resulting in a relative density of 99.8%. Transmission electron microscopy and high-energy x-ray diffraction demonstrated that during LPBF, the stable phases in the powder dissociated in the liquid melt pool and reacted to form a high density (1.7 × 1020/m3) of homogeneously distributed Ti2Y2O7 pyrochlore dispersoids ranging from 17 to 57 nm. The use of GARS powder bypasses the mechanical alloying step typically required to produce ODS feedstock. Preliminary mechanical tests demonstrated an ultimate tensile and yield strength of 474 MPa and 312 MPa, respectively.
I value the problem, but I don’t think my students will: preservice teachers’ judgments of task value and self-efficacy for modelling, word, and intramathematical problems
Authors: Böswald Valentin , Schukajlow Stanislaw
Published: August 2022

According to expectancy-value models, two important motivational constructs are task value and self-efficacy expectations. As students work intensively on mathematical problems in the classroom, teachers need the competence to judge whether students value solving the problem and how confident they are that they will succeed. However, not much is known about the mechanisms behind teachers’ judgments concerning students’ motivation. The goal of the present study was to answer the following research questions: (a) How do preservice teachers rate their own task value and self-efficacy for modelling, word, and intramathematical problems? (b) Are there differences in preservice teachers’ diagnostic judgments concerning school students’ task value and self-efficacy for modelling, word, and intramathematical problems? (c) Do preservice teachers’ own task value and self-efficacy for modelling, word, and intramathematical problems differ from preservice teachers’ judgments of school students’ task value and self-efficacy? A total of 182 preservice teachers were asked about the value of 12 problems, their confidence in solving the problems, and how hypothetical ninth graders would judge these constructs. Preservice teachers’ ratings of their own perceptions regarding both constructs were lower for modelling problems than for other problems. When judging school students’ motivation, ratings of both constructs were higher for word problems. Preservice teachers’ ratings of their own motivation were significantly higher across all types of problems than their judgments of school students’ perspectives. A positive correlation between preservice teachers’ own motivation and their judgments of school students’ motivation indicates the importance of teachers’ perceptions of their own motivation to solve mathematical problems for diagnostic judgments.
Relationships Between Offenders’ Crime Locations and Different Prior Activity Locations as Recorded in Police Data
Authors: Curtis-Ham Sophie , Bernasco Wim , Medvedev Oleg N. , Polaschek Devon L. L.
Published: August 2022

Understanding the relationships between individual offenders’ crime locations and their prior activity locations is important to enable individual level predictions to support crime prevention and investigation strategies. This study examined a wider range of crimes and activity locations than included in previous studies, to determine whether offenders are more likely to commit crime near some types of activity locations than others. Using discrete spatial choice models, we identified relationships between proximity to pre-crime activity locations recorded in a police database (e.g., offenders’ homes, family members’ homes, schools, prior crimes, and other police interactions) and the locations of 17,054 residential burglaries, 10,353 non-residential burglaries, 1,977 commercial robberies, 4,315 personal robberies, and 4,421 extra-familial sex offences in New Zealand. Offenders were generally more likely to commit crime closer to their activity locations than farther away, and closer to those visited more frequently (e.g., home versus family homes) or more likely to impart relevant knowledge about crime opportunities (e.g., prior crimes versus prior victim or witness locations). The observed patterns for different activity locations and crime types broadly support a recently proposed extension to crime pattern theory and illustrate the benefits of differentiating activity location and crime types when examining criminal spatial behaviour. The results have implications for offender risk assessment and management, and geographic profiling in police investigations.
Identifying optimized conditions for developing dewatered alum sludge-based photocatalyst to immobilize a wide range of dye contamination
Authors: Thabet Rahma H. , Fouad Mai K. , El Sherbiny Shakinaz A. , Tony Maha A.
Published: August 2022

In the current investigation, the removal of Levafix Fast Red CA (LFR) and Levafix Amber CA (LA) azo-dyes from aqueous media using the Fenton/adsorption processes has been carried out. The water treatment by-product, namely alum sludge (AS), was successfully collected and calcined to various temperatures, i.e., 400, 600 and 800 °C, then tested for use as a catalyst in the Fenton/adsorption processes. Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) transmittance spectrum analysis and Transmission electron microscopy techniques (TEM) were applied to investigate the structural and morphological properties of such a catalyst. The results displayed that the calcined AS at 400 °C (AS400) showed the best photocatalytic activity under ultraviolet illumination and sunlight irradiation. The results indicated that the adsorption/Fenton’s oxidation systems are efficient for treatment and eliminating such types of reactive dyes. The oxidation reaction using Fenton’s reagent reached 99.9 and 86% removal for LFR and LA dyes, respectively. The operating conditions revealed that the reaction was maximized at the operational parameters of 1 g/L and 800 mg/L for AS400 and H2O2 at acidic pH (3.0). The process of single dyes was studied either from thermodynamic and kinetic viewpoints and the data exhibited that the reaction is followed a pseudo-second- order kinetic model and an exothermic reaction nature. The practical application of such byproduct waste used as a photocatalyst source through using natural solar radiation introduces an industrial ecology approach in treating dye effluents for safer environment.
Medical Students and Their Perceptions of Digital Medicine: a Question of Gender?
Authors: Faihs Valentina , Figalist Christina , Bossert Eileen , Weimann Katja , Berberat Pascal O. , Wijnen-Meijer Marjo
Published: August 2022

Digital technologies play an essential role in the medical sector of today and the future. In a cross-sectional online survey at a German medical university, male students more frequently reported keeping themselves informed about digital medicine outside of their studies across all clinical years of study. While female students self-assessed their knowledge in different fields of digital medicine as worse than their male peers in the first clinical years of study, no more gender differences could be found towards the final year. However, students of both genders showed a strong desire for further education on the topic of digital medicine.
Identification and Classical Control of Linear Multivariable Systems
Authors: Ram V. Dhanya , Chidambaram M.
Published: July 2022

Most systems involved in a chemical process plant are interactive multivariable systems, to control which, the transfer function matrix model is required. This lucid book considers the identification and control of such systems. It discusses open loop and closed loop identification methods, as well as the design of multivariable controllers based on steady state gain matrix. Simple methods for designing controllers based on transfer function matrix model have been reviewed. The design of controllers for non-square systems, and closed loop identification of multivariable unstable systems by the optimization method are also covered. Several simulation examples and exercise problems at the end of each chapter further help the reader consolidate the knowledge gained. This book will be useful to any engineering student, researcher or practitioner who works with interactive, multivariable control systems.
Examination of micro-superficial lesions of up to 5 mm in size in the pharyngolaryngeal region
Authors: Ueda T , Yumii K , Urabe Y , Chikuie N , Takumida M , Taruya T , Kono T , Hamamoto T , Hattori M , Oka S , Tanaka S , Ishino T , Takeno S
Published: August 2022

Objective

For low-grade intraepithelial neoplasia cases, pharyngolaryngeal lesions equal to or less than 5 mm in size do not generally progress to invasive carcinoma. However, micro-superficial lesions equal to or less than 5 mm that showed rapid growth have been recently encountered. This study aimed to identify the characteristics of preferential progression of lesions equal to or less than 5 mm in size.

Method

Gross findings, endoscopic findings and pathological results of 55 lesions measuring equal to or less than 5 mm in diameter were retrospectively reviewed to identify factors that distinguish squamous cell carcinoma or high-grade intraepithelial neoplasia from low-grade intraepithelial neoplasia or non-atypia lesions.

Results

The overall sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, and positive and negative predictive value of background colouration and intrapapillary capillary loop pattern in differentiation of squamous cell carcinoma or high-grade intraepithelial neoplasia from low-grade intraepithelial neoplasia or non-atypia lesions were all 100 per cent.

Conclusion

Diagnosis based on background colouration and the intrapapillary capillary loop pattern on narrow-band imaging facilitates the pathological examination of lesions measuring equal to or less than 5 mm.
The Greek death of Sībawayhi and the origins of Arabic grammar
Authors: Fassberg Teddy
Published: August 2022

Sībawayhi, the founder of the Arabic grammatical tradition, was said to have died in Persia of sorrow after losing to Kufan rivals in a competition in Baghdad. The first part of this article demonstrates the artifice of Sībawayhi's biography, his death tradition in particular, and the stakes involved in its elaboration in early Islamic culture. The second part argues that the tradition of his death was based on the model of Homer's death, which can be shown to have circulated and been creatively adapted in contemporary Syriac historiography. The third part considers the consequences of Sībawayhi's Greek death for the old question of the influence of Greek on early Arabic grammar.
Causal Attributions of Happiness and Critical Events
Authors: Olivos Francisco , Olivos-Jara Pablo , Moyano-Díaz Emilio
Published: August 2022

Abstract. This study extends the literature on people’s understanding of happiness by asking whether positive and negative events could affect the causal attributions of what makes others happy. Using a factorial survey applied to a representative and probabilistic sample of Chileans, we examined three central causal attributions deeply rooted in Latin American folk culture. The results show that the positive family causal attribution of others’ happiness is reinforced by both negative and positive events that happened to the observer. Moreover, the attributions of health and income are unchanged. Finally, we discussed how this study contributes to understanding people’s causal attributions by examining how they are modified by critical events that affect the observer.
A Unified Atmospheric Model for Uranus and Neptune
Authors: Rehnberg Morgan
Published: August 2022

In a new model, three substantial atmospheric layers appear consistent between the ice giants.
Single-shot compressed optical field topography
Authors: Tang Haocheng , Men Ting , Liu Xianglei , Hu Yaodan , Su Jingqin , Zuo Yanlei , Li Ping , Liang Jinyang , Downer Michael C. , Li Zhengyan
Published: August 2022

Femtosecond lasers are powerful in studying matter’s ultrafast dynamics within femtosecond to attosecond time scales. Drawing a three-dimensional (3D) topological map of the optical field of a femtosecond laser pulse including its spatiotemporal amplitude and phase distributions, allows one to predict and understand the underlying physics of light interaction with matter, whose spatially resolved transient dielectric function experiences ultrafast evolution. However, such a task is technically challenging for two reasons: first, one has to capture in single-shot and squeeze the 3D information of an optical field profile into a two-dimensional (2D) detector; second, typical detectors are only sensitive to intensity or amplitude information rather than phase. Here we have demonstrated compressed optical field topography (COFT) drawing a 3D map for an ultrafast optical field in single-shot, by combining the coded aperture snapshot spectral imaging (CASSI) technique with a global 3D phase retrieval procedure. COFT can, in single-shot, fully characterize the spatiotemporal coupling of a femtosecond laser pulse, and live stream the light-speed propagation of an air plasma ionization front, unveiling its potential applications in ultrafast sciences.
A novel circular RNA, circIgfbp2, links neural plasticity and anxiety through targeting mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress-induced synapse dysfunction after traumatic brain injury
Authors: Du Mengran , Wu Chenrui , Yu Renqiang , Cheng Yuqi , Tang Zhaohua , Wu Biying , Fu Jiayuanyuan , Tan Weilin , Zhou Qiang , Zhu Ziyu , Balawi Ehab , Huang Xuekang , Ma Jun , Liao Z. B.
Published: August 2022

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) can lead to different neurological and psychiatric disorders. Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are highly expressed in the nervous system and enriched in synapses; yet, the underlying role and mechanisms of circRNAs in neurological impairment and dysfunction are still not fully understood. In this study, we investigated the expression of circRNAs and their relation with neurological dysfunction after TBI. RNA-Seq was used to detect differentially expressed circRNAs in injured brain tissue, revealing that circIgfbp2 was significantly increased. Up-regulated hsa_circ_0058195, which was highly homologous to circIgfbp2, was further confirmed in the cerebral cortex specimens and serum samples of patients after TBI. Moreover, correlation analysis showed a positive correlation between hsa_circ_0058195 levels and the Self-Rating Anxiety Scale scores in these subjects. Furthermore, knockdown of circIgfbp2 in mice relieved anxiety-like behaviors and sleep disturbances induced by TBI. Knockdown of circIgfbp2 in H2O2 treated HT22 cells alleviated mitochondrial dysfunction, while its overexpression reversed the process. Mechanistically, we discovered that circIgfbp2 targets miR-370-3p to regulate BACH1, and down-regulating BACH1 alleviated mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress-induced synapse dysfunction. In conclusion, inhibition of circIgfbp2 alleviated mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress-induced synapse dysfunction after TBI through the miR-370-3p/BACH1/HO-1 axis. Thus, circIgfbp2 might be a novel therapeutic target for anxiety and sleep disorders after TBI.
Regulation of cholesterol homeostasis in health and diseases: from mechanisms to targeted therapeutics
Authors: Duan Yajun , Gong Ke , Xu Suowen , Zhang Feng , Meng Xianshe , Han Jihong
Published: August 2022

Disturbed cholesterol homeostasis plays critical roles in the development of multiple diseases, such as cardiovascular diseases (CVD), neurodegenerative diseases and cancers, particularly the CVD in which the accumulation of lipids (mainly the cholesteryl esters) within macrophage/foam cells underneath the endothelial layer drives the formation of atherosclerotic lesions eventually. More and more studies have shown that lowering cholesterol level, especially low-density lipoprotein cholesterol level, protects cardiovascular system and prevents cardiovascular events effectively. Maintaining cholesterol homeostasis is determined by cholesterol biosynthesis, uptake, efflux, transport, storage, utilization, and/or excretion. All the processes should be precisely controlled by the multiple regulatory pathways. Based on the regulation of cholesterol homeostasis, many interventions have been developed to lower cholesterol by inhibiting cholesterol biosynthesis and uptake or enhancing cholesterol utilization and excretion. Herein, we summarize the historical review and research events, the current understandings of the molecular pathways playing key roles in regulating cholesterol homeostasis, and the cholesterol-lowering interventions in clinics or in preclinical studies as well as new cholesterol-lowering targets and their clinical advances. More importantly, we review and discuss the benefits of those interventions for the treatment of multiple diseases including atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases, obesity, diabetes, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, cancer, neurodegenerative diseases, osteoporosis and virus infection.
Acute orexin antagonism selectively modulates anticipatory anxiety in humans: implications for addiction and anxiety
Authors: Gorka Stephanie M. , Khorrami Kia J. , Manzler Charles A. , Phan K. Luan
Published: August 2022

Research indicates that heightened anticipatory anxiety underlies several forms of psychopathology. Anticipatory anxiety can be reliably and objectively measured in the laboratory using the No-Predictable-Unpredictable (NPU) threat paradigm. The NPU paradigm is an ideal research tool for the NIH ‘Fast-Fail’ approach of screening promising compounds and testing human target engagement. Evidence from preclinical studies suggests that the hypocretin/orexin (ORX) hypothalamic neuropeptide system is a potential means for modulating anticipatory anxiety and disrupting stress-related alcohol use. The current study tested this question using a psychophysiological probe of the ORX system in humans. We examined whether a single dose of suvorexant (SUV; 10 mg; dual ORX receptor antagonist) can effectively and selectively target a well-validated human laboratory index of exaggerated anticipatory anxiety using a within-subjects placebo-controlled design. A total of twenty-one volunteers completed two laboratory sessions during acute administration of 10 mg SUV or placebo. Across sessions, we administered the NPU paradigm probing sustained anticipatory anxiety and fear while startle eyeblink was recorded as an index of aversive reactivity. Questionnaires assessing mood states and subjective drug effects were also collected. Results indicated SUV was well-tolerated. Compared with placebo, SUV was associated with decreased startle reactivity during anticipatory anxiety but not fear or no-threat conditions. Therefore, SUV selectively and effectively reduced objective indicators of anticipatory anxiety in humans and engaged our laboratory target of psychopathology. ORX antagonism may be a promising strategy for modulating human anxiety and potentially, stress-related alcohol use.
Spatiotemporal control of engineered bacteria to express interferon-γ by focused ultrasound for tumor immunotherapy
Authors: Chen Yuhao , Du Meng , Yuan Zhen , Chen Zhiyi , Yan Fei
Published: August 2022

Bacteria-based tumor therapy has recently attracted wide attentions due to its unique capability in targeting tumors and preferentially colonizing the core area of the tumor. Various therapeutic genes are also harbored into these engineering bacteria to enhance their anti-tumor efficacy. However, it is difficult to spatiotemporally control the expression of these inserted genes in the tumor site. Here, we engineer an ultrasound-responsive bacterium (URB) which can induce the expression of exogenous genes in an ultrasound-controllable manner. Owing to the advantage of ultrasound in tissue penetration, an acoustic remote control of bacterial gene expression can be realized by designing a temperature-actuated genetic switch. Cytokine interferon-γ (IFN-γ), an important immune regulatory molecule that plays a significant role in tumor immunotherapy, is used to test the system. Our results show that brief hyperthermia induced by focused ultrasound promotes the expression of IFN-γ gene, improving anti-tumor efficacy of URB in vitro and in vivo. Our study provides an alternative strategy for bacteria-mediated tumor immunotherapy.
Segregated cation flux by TPC2 biases Ca2+ signaling through lysosomes
Authors: Yuan Yu , Jaślan Dawid , Rahman Taufiq , Bolsover Stephen R. , Arige Vikas , Wagner Larry E. , Abrahamian Carla , Tang Rachel , Keller Marco , Hartmann Jonas , Rosato Anna S. , Weiden Eva-Maria , Bracher Franz , Yule David I. , Grimm Christian , Patel Sandip
Published: August 2022

Two-pore channels are endo-lysosomal cation channels with malleable selectivity filters that drive endocytic ion flux and membrane traffic. Here we show that TPC2 can differentially regulate its cation permeability when co-activated by its endogenous ligands, NAADP and PI(3,5)P2. Whereas NAADP rendered the channel Ca2+-permeable and PI(3,5)P2 rendered the channel Na+-selective, a combination of the two increased Ca2+ but not Na+ flux. Mechanistically, this was due to an increase in Ca2+ permeability independent of changes in ion selectivity. Functionally, we show that cell permeable NAADP and PI(3,5)P2 mimetics synergistically activate native TPC2 channels in live cells, globalizing cytosolic Ca2+ signals and regulating lysosomal pH and motility. Our data reveal that flux of different ions through the same pore can be independently controlled and identify TPC2 as a likely coincidence detector that optimizes lysosomal Ca2+ signaling.
Search performance and octopamine neuronal signaling mediate parasitoid induced changes in Drosophila oviposition behavior
Authors: Pang Lan , Liu Zhiguo , Chen Jiani , Dong Zhi , Zhou Sicong , Zhang Qichao , Lu Yueqi , Sheng Yifeng , Chen Xuexin , Huang Jianhua
Published: August 2022

Making the appropriate responses to predation risk is essential for the survival of an organism; however, the underlying mechanisms are still largely unknown. Here, we find that Drosophila has evolved an adaptive strategy to manage the threat from its parasitoid wasp by manipulating the oviposition behavior. Through perception of the differences in host search performance of wasps, Drosophila is able to recognize younger wasps as a higher level of threat and consequently depress the oviposition. We further show that this antiparasitoid behavior is mediated by the regulation of the expression of Tdc2 and Tβh in the ventral nerve cord via LC4 visual projection neurons, which in turn leads to the dramatic reduction in octopamine and the resulting dysfunction of mature follicle trimming and rupture. Our study uncovers a detailed mechanism underlying the defensive behavior in insects that may advance our understanding of predator avoidance in animals.
Effectiveness of REGEN-COV antibody combination in preventing severe COVID-19 outcomes
Authors: Hayek Samah , Ben-shlomo Yatir , Dagan Noa , Reis Ben Y. , Barda Noam , Kepten Eldad , Roitman Alina , Shapira Shachar , Yaron Shlomit , Balicer Ran D. , Netzer Doron , Peretz Alon
Published: August 2022

REGEN-COV, a combination of the monoclonal antibodies casirivimab and imdevimab, has been approved as a treatment for high-risk patients infected with SARS-CoV-2 within five days of their diagnosis. We performed a retrospective cohort study, and used data repositories of Israel’s largest healthcare organization to determine the real-world effectiveness of REGEN-COV treatment against COVID-19-related hospitalization, severe disease, and death. We compared patients infected with Delta variant and treated with REGEN-COV (n = 289) to those infected but not-treated with REGEN-COV (n = 1,296). Demographic and clinical characteristics were used to match patients and for further adjustment as part of the C0x model. Estimated treatment effectiveness was defined as one minus the hazard ratio. Treatment effectiveness of REGEN-COV was 56.4% (95% CI: 23.7–75.1%) in preventing COVID-19 hospitalization, 59.2% (95% CI: 19.9–79.2%) in preventing severe COVID-19, and 93.5% (95% CI: 52.1–99.1%) in preventing COVID-19 death in the 28 days after treatment. In conclusion, REGEN-COV was effective in reducing the risk of severe sequelae in high-risk COVID-19 patients.
1D and 3D co-simulation and self-adaptive position control of electrostatic levitation in China’s Space Station
Authors: Zhang Peng , Zhang Yang , Wang Zile , Wang Yang , Li Mao , Niu Ran , Liang Li , Yang Wenju , Gao Ming , Zhong Hongen , Li Xuzhi , Yu Jianding
Published: August 2022

The greatest challenge of electrostatic levitation for containerless material processing is the stable control of charged material during heating. Recently, high-precision self-adaptive control of electrostatic levitation has been achieved in China’s Space Station. Based on the 1D and 3D co-simulation analysis, an optimal scheduling of control strategies of sample release and retrieval in space is developed. Both simulation results and on-orbit experiments demonstrated that the inversion of surface charge is responsible for the heating induced material instability. On-orbit experiments indicated that under laser illuminations, the net surface charge of metal Zr changed from positive to negative at 900 K and from negative to positive at 1300 K. The possible physical mechanism of the charge inversion of heated material is discussed.
A paper-based self-inductive folding displacement sensor for human respiration and motion signals measurement
Authors: Zhu Junwen , Jia Yanshen , Li Mengmeng , Zhou Zhanxuan , Chen Yinghao , Liu Qiang , Yang Xing
Published: August 2022

Flexible sensors have recently attracted much attention for potential applications in motion measurement and wearable health monitoring. In this paper, an environment-friendly, economic, and high-performance paper-based self-inductive folding displacement sensor (PSIFS) was proposed, with displacement resolution of 20 μm and wide measurement range of 43.2 mm. The sensor sensitivity could reach 4.44% mm−1 with the maximum deviation of 0.00904 in experiments. The sensing mechanism based on inductance variation due to three-dimensional deformation of planar inductor coil and structural design principle under two dimensions of sensitivity and size were proposed and studied. The folding method to enhance sensitivity was proposed and 3 times sensitivity enhancement could be achieved by once folding. Multiple breathing states and motion states of the human joints could be recognized. The proposed simple paper-based sensor, folding method to increase sensitivity, and structural design model may provide a way for the research of flexible sensors.