bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The quantum trajectory‐guided adaptive Gaussian methodology in the Libra software package
Authors: Dutra Matthew , Garashchuk Sophya , Akimov Alexey V.
Published: December 2022

In this paper, we report an implementation of the quantum trajectory‐guided adaptive Gaussian (QTAG) method in a modular open‐source Libra package for quantum dynamics calculations. The QTAG method is based on a representation of wavefunctions in terms of a quantum trajectory‐guided adaptable Gaussians basis and is generalized for time‐propagation on multiple coupled surfaces to be applicable to model nonadiabatic dynamics. The potential matrix elements are evaluated within either the local harmonic or bra‐ket‐average (linear) approximations to the potential energy surfaces, the latter being a more practical option. Performance of the QTAG method is demonstrated and discussed for the Holstein and Tully models, which are the standard benchmarks for method development in the area of nonadiabatic dynamics.
Potential approaches to establishing harmonious river‐human relationships
Authors: Greenway John
Published: December 2022

This paper responds to a call to address the development and building of river‐human relationships in the twenty‐first century. Many literatures have identified the historical instrumental exploitation of natural resources underpinning urbanisation and the economic development leading to wide‐spread degradation of environments including rivers. Clearly such relationships can no longer be considered as appropriate in the twenty‐first century. This paper intends to present a conceptual rethink to address the following question: Are there potential approaches by which humans can develop harmonious coexistent relationships with riverine landscapes and associated ecosystems? In answering this question, this paper draws on ideas from new materialism thinking. New materialism offers useful guidance in understanding human‐river relationships in which river landscapes are not static backgrounds to the performance of the social. River systems and environments are active participants influencing and shaping social performances through multiple and diverse interconnected and complex human‐nonhuman relationships and co‐productive partnerships. It is concluded that new materialist perspectives provide important guidance for developing harmonious river‐human relationships. De‐centring the human as the dominant actor in relations with river landscapes and acknowledging rivers as key actors within river‐human relationships may enhance the building of harmonious coexistent and mutually beneficial relationships in the twenty‐first century. It is further concluded the Nature Futures Framework (NFF) and Human‐River Encounter Sites (HRES) frameworks in their capacity to accommodate new materialist thinking provide an opportunity for further exploration and examination of the possibilities for building harmonious coexistent river‐human relationships.
Scoping Review of Medical Students' Perceptions of the Field of Dermatology
Authors: Abdelwahab Rewan , Shahin Ahmad , Kim Yong-hun , Coias Jennifer , Qureshi Muhammad B. , Vidal Nahid
Published: December 2022

Background

Although perceived barriers to applying to dermatology have been researched among medical students, there remains a dearth of literature dedicated to understanding perceptions that medical students have of the field of dermatology and dermatologists.

Methods

A review of the literature in Embase, Pubmed, Scopus, Web of Science, and ScienceDirect were carried out to identify articles and abstracts between 2016 and 2021 relating to medical student perceptions of the field of dermatology. Peer-reviewed English studies measuring attitudes/level of interest in dermatology or other specialities, understanding of dermatologic topics, procedures, and/or scope of practice were included. Duplicate studies and conference abstracts were excluded. All publications were screened using the PRISMA-Sc guidelines. Findings were summarised and tabulated accordingly.

Results

A total of nine articles met inclusion criteria and eight are included in this review since one was not accessible online. Notable findings include non-US medical students perceiving dermatology as monotonous, stigmatized, unfamiliar, and difficult to access with a misunderstanding of the diversity and severity of the conditions dermatologists treat. No data on US medical student perceptions was found. Perceptions were found to be influential in career planning: medical students may reject specialities after exposure to negative comments on the field. Factors attracting students to dermatology include the appeal of being a dermatologist, media portrayal, and dermatologists' influence on patients' lives. Completion of dermatology-related activities improved medical student interest, comfort, and understanding of the field. Early dermatology exposure in US undergraduate premedical students led to heightened interest in the field, more confidence in ability to find dermatology mentors, and increased perception that dermatology serves the needs of underserved communities.

Conclusions

This review demonstrates the need to further investigate medical student perceptions of dermatology, particularly in the United States. Perceptions of medical specialities can impact medical student career choices. Understanding which misconceptions may be preventing students from exploring dermatology can inform efforts towards improving diversity, equity, and inclusion: translating to an equitable match and improving patient outcomes. Limitations include exclusion of articles published before 2016, geographic variability in studies, and limited data on evolving student perceptions over time.
Hexagon AgNCs/PVP Crystallization Induced Cathode Electrochemiluminescence Enhancement for miRNA221 Biosensing
Authors: Wang Bin , Wang Guangjie , Li Jing , Liu Xinling , Ni Nan , Su Huilan , Chen Mei , Mao Li
Published: December 2022

Aggredation‐induced electrochemiluminescence (AIECL) promises an efficient strategy for synthesize highly luminescent emitter and co‐reactant for ECL analysis, however, rational control of electrogenerated emission intensity is still challenging. The low electroconductivity and amorphous molecular configuration are intrinsic bottleneck. This work reveals the impact of polyvinyl pyrrolidone backbone regulated silver nanocrystallines (AgNCs/PVP) on the cathode AIECL properties in near infrared region, by employing the Box‐Behnken designed response surface computation model to modulate crystal aggregates. Electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy discovered hydrogen radical (HO•) dominant reductive‐oxidative (R‐O) ECL mechanism with AgNCs acting as the co‐reaction accelerator in graphene oxide/persulfate system (GO/S2O82−). Both theoretical calculation and experimental measurement testified that the ECL of AgNCs in GO/S2O82− dependent on the concentration of in situ electrochemical oxidized Ag+. The high efficiency of crystallization‐induced enhanced ECL (CIECL) originates from 1) the effective electron transfer of Ag+ accelerated HO• produce to notable promote radioactive transition, and 2) twisted intramolecular charge transfer from the electron‐rich donor of PVP to electron‐deficient receptor of Ag0 to restrict nonradioactive transition. The AgNCs/PVP with CIECL effect are applied to construct an ultrasensitive platform for miR‐221 assay with a lower detection limit of 7.47 × 103 copies mL−1 than typical qPCR method.
The Rule of Thirds: Controlling Junction Chirality and Polarity in 3D DNA Tiles
Authors: Vecchioni Simon , Lu Brandon , Janowski Jordan , Woloszyn Karol , Jonoska Nataša , Seeman Nadrian C. , Mao Chengde , Ohayon Yoel P. , Sha Ruojie
Published: December 2022

The successful self‐assembly of tensegrity triangle DNA crystals heralded the ability to programmably construct macroscopic crystalline nanomaterials from rationally‐designed, nanoscale components. This 3D DNA tile owes its “tensegrity” nature to its three rotationally stacked double helices locked together by the tensile winding of a center strand segmented into 7 base pair (bp) inter‐junction regions, corresponding to two‐thirds of a helical turn of DNA. All reported tensegrity triangles to date have employed turn inter‐junction segments, yielding right‐handed, antiparallel, “J1” junctions. Here a minimal DNA triangle motif consisting of 3‐bp inter‐junction segments, or one‐third of a helical turn is reported. It is found that the minimal motif exhibits a reversed morphology with a left‐handed tertiary structure mediated by a locally‐parallel Holliday junction—the “L1” junction. This parallel junction yields a predicted helical groove matching pattern that breaks the pseudosymmetry between tile faces, and the junction morphology further suggests a folding mechanism. A Rule of Thirds by which supramolecular chirality can be programmed through inter‐junction DNA segment length is identified. These results underscore the role that global topological forces play in determining local DNA architecture and ultimately point to an under‐explored class of self‐assembling, chiral nanomaterials for topological processes in biological systems.
Sparse Hanson–Wright inequality for a bilinear form of sub‐Gaussian variables
Authors: Park Seongoh , Wang Xinlei , Lim Johan
Published: December 2022

In this paper, we derive a new version of Hanson–Wright inequality for a sparse bilinear form of sub‐Gaussian variables. Our results are a generalization of previous deviation inequalities that consider either sparse quadratic forms or dense bilinear forms. We apply the new concentration inequality to testing the cross‐covariance matrix when data are subject to missing. Using our results, we can find a threshold value of correlations that controls the family‐wise error rate. Furthermore, we discuss the multiplicative measurement error case for the bilinear form with a boundedness condition.
Axial compressive behavior of ultra‐high performance concrete‐filled double skin high‐strength steel tubular short columns
Authors: Li Jiayue , Deng Zongcai
Published: December 2022

In this paper, seven ultra‐high performance concrete (UHPC)‐filled double skin high‐strength steel tubular (UHPCFDST) columns and four UHPC filled high‐strength steel tubular (UHPCFST) columns axial compression tests were carried out. The effects of hollow ratio, width‐to‐thickness ratio of the outer steel tube, and cross‐section combination form on the axial compression performance of UHPCFDST were studied, and the failure mode, axial load–strain curve, and strain response were discussed. The results showed that the high‐strength steel tube had good compatibility with UHPC, and all specimens finally had serious buckling deformation. The peak load of UHPCFDST specimens decreased with the increase of the hollow ratio, the ductility and toughness were improved. The width‐to‐thickness ratio of the outer steel tube had the most significant effect on the axial compression performance of the specimens. With the increase of the width‐to‐thickness of the outer steel tube, the ductility of the specimens tended to increase, and the toughness index first increased and then decreased. Finally, a unified calculation model for the ultimate compressive capacity of UHPCFDST and UHPCFST specimens was proposed, and the predicted value was in good agreement with the experimental value.
Measurement of the Void Size Between Wall Tiles and Concrete Through Nondestructive Inspection Using Electromagnetic Waves
Authors: Alsalem Hussain , Tanaka Takayuki , Honda Takumi , Doi Satoru , Uchida Shigeru , Ono Wakuto
Published: December 2022

The separation of tiles from buildings degrades the aesthetic appeal of buildings and may result in structural failure. Therefore, tiles should be inspected periodically. However, manual inspections are expensive and require qualified experts. In this study, voids corresponding to tile separation were detected in a concrete specimen using nondestructive inspection based on electromagnetic wave detection. Furthermore, wave reflection models of healthy and defective tiles were created, and the effects of the void plane size on the reflection of defective tiles were considered. The correlation between the void plane size and the reflection intensity difference integral value was verified through multilayer scanning using these models. © 2022 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Reversible capture and release of circulating tumor cells on a three‐dimensional conductive interface to improve cell purity for gene mutation analysis
Authors: Wang Yi‐Ke , Wang Ming , Cheng Shi‐Bo , Chen Yi‐Jing , Li Cui‐Wen , Xie Min , Huang Wei‐Hua
Published: December 2022

Rare circulating tumor cells (CTCs) are always harvested with large numbers of white blood cells (WBCs) by current CTC isolation techniques, which influences the accuracy of CTC‐related gene and protein analysis. Therefore, it is very urgent to develop a method for efficient isolation of CTCs with high purity. In this work, we fabricated a reversibly assembled interface by layer‐by‐layer assembly of biotinylated poly‐(L‐lysine‐graft‐ethylene glycol) (PLL‐g‐PEG‐biotin), streptavidin, and CTC‐specific antibody on a three‐dimensional conductive scaffold, and further embedded it into a customized microchip for CTC capture. The assembled multilayers increased the roughness of the scaffold, which improved the capture efficiency. Importantly, the PLL‐g‐PEG‐biotin covalently coupled with CTCs could be detached from the scaffold by electrostatic repulsion, and the released CTCs could be recaptured on the conductive scaffold via electrostatic attraction while the WBCs were continuously drifted away. This reversible capture and release strategy significantly improved the purity of CTCs, and pure CTCs were obtained from cancer patients’ blood samples for gene mutation assay, which will be of great significance for assisting cancer diagnosis and treatment in a noninvasive way.
Long‐term non‐surgical management of canine aural tympanokeratoma with repeated removal of middle ear keratinous debris and CT follow‐up
Authors: Vanhamäki Leena , Seppänen Riitta , Candido Marcus , Anttila Marjukka , Reunanen Vilma
Published: December 2022

An 8‐year‐old, male fox terrier with otitis externa was presented because of decreased activity, pain in the ears and deterioration of hearing. Video‐otoscopic flushing was performed, revealing yellowish, spongious debris protruding from the left middle ear cavity. The dog was referred to cone beam computed tomography, which revealed non‐contrast‐enhancing soft tissue opacity filling the left tympanic bulla. Three months later, video‐otoscopic removal of keratinous debris from the tympanic bulla was performed, and histological examination of the debris confirmed the presence of tympanokeratoma. Because the owner refused surgical management, recurrence was followed by video‐otoscopic examination and/or computed tomography, and debris removal was repeated when recurrence was observed, altogether four times over 23 months. Four computed tomography scans during the follow‐up period revealed only very mild progression of the disease.
Multi-grade Teaching in a Small Rural School in Northern Norway
Authors: Bjøru Anne-Mette
Published: December 2022

This chapter investigates multi-grade teaching in a small rural school in Northern Norway. The aims of the chapter are to show what characterizes the teaching practices in a multi-grade school in a small rural community, and how these practices enable inclusion and adapted education. The chapter gives a brief insight into parts of the Norwegian framework for education; the Education Act and the Core- and Subject Curricula, and theory about didactical tools that are useful in multi-grade school settings. The data were collected during a visit to a small rural school. The field work lasted two full days and included observations of classroom sessions, participation at recess and informal talks with the teachers. Findings show that the three didactical tools student group formation/subject organizing, peer-learning and pupils’ personal working plans are useful when conducting multi-grade teaching in a small school with few pupils. Alongside the subject orientation, the chapter also discusses the Norwegian Core curriculum’s focus on social learning and how this is an important fourth element when working towards a practice that is inclusive and adapted to the individual pupil.
Education Provision for Indigenous and Minority Heritage Languages Revitalisation: A Study Focusing on Saami and Scottish Gaelic
Authors: Beaton Mhairi C. , Helander Hanna , Keskitalo Pigga
Published: December 2022

This chapter provides a comparative study of education provision for the Indigenous language of Saami and the minority heritage of Scottish Gaelic. Due to historical factors, both languages are considered endangered according to UNESCO listings. Whilst North Saami and Scottish Gaelic receive government support, which would appear to be providing a reasonably stable position at least within their geographically core areas, assimilation continues resulting in the overall numbers of speakers remaining small. As education is viewed as key to the promotion of both languages, following an introduction to the background historical and societal context of both language contexts, the chapter presents educational practices and challenges in education for comparison over the past forty years. The comparative study highlights that similarities between these two languages exist in language revitalisation efforts to reverse language shift but the forms vary. The chapter concludes with some emerging recommendations for the successful maintenance and revitalisation of minority heritage and Indigenous languages in the twenty-first century despite the continued dominance of surrounding majority languages.
Responsible AI in Africa—Challenges and Opportunities
Authors: Okolo Chinasa T. , Aruleba Kehinde , Obaido George
Published: December 2022

This chapter provides an analysis into the factors that impact the effective adoption and successful implementation of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies in Africa. The study begins by defining the concept of “responsible AI” and what this means specifically for technologies developed and used within Africa. Further sections within the chapter present challenges including digital literacy, lack of local AI talent and governmental barriers that impede. The chapter also goes into an in-depth analysis of the AI startup and research landscape within the African continent, highlighting organisations of interest and concerning trends. ‘Challenges to effective AI adoption and Implementation in Africa’ concludes by envisioning what responsible AI could look like in the African context and provides actionable recommendations for making strides towards this goal.
Responsible Artificial Intelligence: Recommendations and Lessons Learned
Authors: Dignum Virginia
Published: December 2022

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has huge potential to bring accuracy, efficiency, cost savings and speed to a whole range of human activities and to provide entirely new insights into behaviour and cognition. However, the way AI is developed and deployed for a great part determines how AI will impact our lives and societies. For instance, automated classification systems can deliver prejudiced results and therefore raise questions about privacy and bias; and, the autonomy of intelligent systems, such as, e.g. self-driving vehicles, raises concerns about safety and responsibility. AI’s impact concerns not only the research and development directions for AI, but also how these systems are introduced into society and used in everyday situations. There is a large debate concerning how the use of AI will influence labour, well-being, social interactions, health care, income distribution and other social areas. Dealing with these issues requires that ethical, legal, societal and economic implications are taken into account. In this paper, I will discuss how a responsible approach to the development and use of AI can be achieved, and how current approaches to ensure the ethical alignment of decisions made or supported by AI systems can benefit from the social perspective embedded in non-Western philosophies, in particular the Ubuntu philosophy.
Defending the Civic Body from False Information Online
Authors: Bakir Vian , McStay Andrew
Published: December 2022

We have established that false information online harms thecivic body, driven by theeconomics of emotionand thepolitics of emotion. What should be done about this? Multi-stakeholder solutions have been proffered by various countries’ governmental inquiries into disinformation and fake news, and by supranational bodies including the United Nations, European Union and Commonwealth. This chapter assesses seven solution areas: namely, (1) coercive and non-coercive government action, (2) cybersecurity, (3) digital intermediaries/platforms, (4) advertisers, (5) professional political persuaders and public relations, (6) media organisations and (7) education. As well as being intrinsically difficult areas to solve individually, let alone in concert, the chapter concludes that such solutions merely tinker at the edges as they do not address a fundamental incubator for false information online: namely, the business model for social media platforms built on theeconomics of emotion.
Sustaining Ghanaian Transnational Parent–Child Relationships through WhatsApp: A Youth-Centric Perspective
Authors: Osei Onallia Esther , Mazzucato Valentina , Haagsman Karlijn
Published: December 2022

Current research on transnational families considers information communication technologies (ICTs or new media) central to sustaining familial ties but also highlights that abilities to stay connected are not the same for all members of transnational families. Previous studies have focused mainly on how migrant parents communicate with their children at origin or on adult migrant children interacting with their parents at ‘home’; hence, the perspectives of youth are missing. Young people take an active part in transnational communications and thereby co-shape transnational relations. Moreover, studies have focused mostly on ‘old’ ICTs such as phone calls, and most recently, Facebook and Skype. As ICTs continually change, we also need to look at new technologies that enable long-distance sociability, giving young people more room for manoeuvre. We address these gaps by investigating how young people who live in Ghana employ WhatsApp to engage with their migrant parents. We show that youth are agentic herein and devise various strategies to experience a sense of being together across geographical distance.
Isotretinoin treatment upregulates the expression of p53 in the skin and sebaceous glands of patients with acne vulgaris
Authors: Agamia Naglaa Fathi , El Mulla Khalid Fawzi , Alsayed Naglaa Mohamed , Ghazala Rasha Mohamed , El Maksoud Rania Elsayed Abdel , Abdelmeniem Iman Mohamed , Talaat Iman Mamdouh , Zaki Inass Ibrahim , Sabah Rana Mohamed , Melnik Bodo Clemens
Published: December 2022

The transcriptomic regulation induced by isotretinoin (13-cis retinoic acid) is still a matter of debate as short-term exposures of immortalized sebocytes with isotretinoin produced conflicting results. Based on translational evidence, it has been hypothesized that oral isotretinoin treatment upregulates the expression of the transcription factor p53. Twenty-five patients suffering from acne vulgaris were treated with isotretinoin (0.6 mg/kg body weight) for 6 weeks. Biopsies from back skin were taken before and after isotretinoin treatment for the determination of p53 expression by immunohistochemical staining, quantification of p53 protein concentration by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay and TP53 gene expression by quantitative reverse transcription real time PCR. Fifteen socio-demographically cross-matched healthy volunteers served as controls. Isotretinoin treatment significantly increased the nuclear expression of p53 in sebaceous glands of treated patients compared to pre-treatment levels and p53 levels of untreated controls. Furthermore, the p53 protein and gene expression significantly increased in the skin after treatment. The magnitude of p53 expression showed an inverse correlation to acne severity score and body mass index. Under clinical conditions, isotretinoin induced the expression of p53, which controls multiple transcription factors involved in the pathogenesis of acne vulgaris including FoxO1, androgen receptor and critical genes involved in the induction of autophagy and apoptosis. Increased p53-FoxO1 signalling enhanced by systemic isotretinoin treatment explains the underlying transcriptomic changes causing sebum suppression but also the adverse effects associated with systemic isotretinoin therapy.
Traditional bullying and cyberbullying in the digital age and its associated mental health problems in children and adolescents: a meta-analysis
Authors: Li Chao , Wang Ping , Martin-Moratinos Marina , Bella-Fernández Marcos , Blasco-Fontecilla Hilario
Published: December 2022

Bullying is a risk factor for the physical and mental health of adolescents. The advent of new technologies has resulted in a brand-new type of bullying, cyberbullying (CB). The co-occurring effects of cyberbullying and traditional bullying(TB) forms of bullying on adolescent mental health are unclear. We performed a meta-analysis to explore the unique and combined effects of CB and TB on adverse psychological outcomes in victims by conducting a joint study of both types of bullying. By doing so, we provide the basis for a comprehensive community bullying prevention program. The database PubMed, PsyclNFO, and Web of Science were searched for studies from 2010 to 2021. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) reporting guideline was followed for data abstraction, and the NIH tool was used to evaluate study-level risk of bias. 42 studies with 266,888 participants were identified. Random-Effect models were used for our study. The moderator analysis was used to explore the moderator of prevalence. Studies with three groups of victims (TB only, CB only, and Both) and two groups of victims (TB and CB) were compared in subgroup analysis. The mean victimization rate was 24.32% (95% CI 20.32–28.83%) for TB and 11.10% (95% CI 9.12–13.44%) for CB. Roughly one-third of TB victims were also victimized by CB. Conversely, only about one-third of CB victims were free from TB. The estimated ORs for depression, suicidal ideation, suicide attempts, and self-harm in the three-group (TB only, CB only and Both) analysis were: depression [TB only: 3.33 (2.22–5.00); CB only: 3.38 (2.57–4.46); Both: 5.30 (2.43–11.56)]; suicidal ideations [TB only: 3.08 (2.12–4.46); CB only: 3.52 (2.38–5.20); Both: 6.64 (4.14–10.64)]; self-harm [TB only: 2.70 (1.86–3.91); CB only: 3.57 (3.20–3.98); Both: 5.57 (2.11–16.00)]; and suicide attempts: [TB only: 2.61 (1.50–4.55); CB only: 3.52 (2.50–4.98); Both: 7.82 (3.83–15.93)]. TB and CB victimization among youth are a matter of public health concern. Victimization appears to be a marker of greater psychopathological severity, particularly suicide-related issues.
A randomized clinical trial assessing theranostic-guided corneal cross-linking for treating keratoconus: the ARGO protocol
Authors: Roszkowska Anna Maria , Lombardo Giuseppe , Mencucci Rita , Scorcia Vincenzo , Giannaccare Giuseppe , Vestri Annarita , Alunni Fegatelli Danilo , Bernava Giuseppe Massimo , Serrao Sebastiano , Lombardo Marco
Published: December 2022

The Assessment of theranostic guided riboflavin/UV-A corneal cross-linking for treatment of keratoconus (ARGO; registration number NCT05457647) clinical trial tests the hypothesis that theranostic-guided riboflavin/UV-A corneal cross-linking (CXL) can provide predictable clinical efficacy for halting keratoconus progression, regardless of treatment protocol, i.e., either with or without epithelial removal. Theranostics is an emerging therapeutic paradigm of personalized and precision medicine that enables real-time monitoring of image-guided therapy. In this trial, the theranostic software module of a novel UV-A medical device will be validated in order to confirm its accuracy in estimating corneal cross-linking efficacy in real time. During CXL procedure, the theranostic UV-A medical device will provide the operator with an imaging biomarker, i.e., the theranostic score, which is calculated by non-invasive measurement of corneal riboflavin concentration and its UV-A light mediated photo-degradation. ARGO is a randomized multicenter clinical trial in patients aged between 18 and 40 years with progressive keratoconus aiming to validate the theranostic score by assessing the change of the maximum keratometry point value at 1-year postoperatively. A total of 50 participants will be stratified with allocation ratio 1:1 using a computer-generated stratification plan with blocks in two treatment protocols, such as epithelium-off or epithelium-on CXL. Following treatment, participants will be monitored for 12 months. Assessment of safety and performance of theranostic-guided corneal cross-linking treatment modality will be determined objectively by corneal tomography, corneal endothelial microscopy, visual acuity testing and slit-lamp eye examination.
Female author representation differs between journals from the United States of America, Europe, and Asia: a 10-year comparison of five medical disciplines
Authors: Molwitz Isabel , Keller Sarah , Wolf-Baldauf Liesa , Ozga Ann-Kathrin , Nguyen Thai-An , Wedekind Ilka , Zhao Jing , Can Elif , Kamo Minobu , Yamamura Jin
Published: December 2022

To provide information for targeted support of female scientists, the objective of this study was to evaluate how female authors are represented in journals of five medical disciplines with varying rates of female physicians from the United States of America (USA), Europe, and Asia. For this retrospective bibliometric study 15 representative gynecologic, pediatric, radiologic, urologic, and surgical journals from the USA, Europe, and Asia were selected from the Web of Science database. From these, all n = 24182 publications of the years 2007/2008 and 2017/2018 were included. Gender and affiliations were assigned to first and senior authors using a software (Gender API, Passau, Germany), native speakers, and a web-based search. For statistics mixed logistic and multinomial logistic regression were applied. In pediatrics, radiology, and urology, highest female first and senior author shares were consistently found in journals from the USA. In European journals proportions across all disciplines tripled (odds ratio 2.96 [95% CI 2.60–3.37], P < .0001). Asian journals showed three-times fewer female authorships than journals from the USA or Europe and the smallest increase (1.36 [1.11–1.66], P = .0026). Compared to the proportion of female physicians within each specialty, female first authors remained underrepresented in Asian journals and female senior authors in journals of all regions. In journals from the USA most female authors originated from institutes within the USA (36.2%), in European journals from the USA (21.1%) or Europe (21.7%). Women from Asian institutes were worst represented in journals of all regions with lowest rates in Asian journals (9.4%). In conclusion female first authors remained underrepresented in Asian journals, female senior authors and women from Asian institutes in journals from all regions. Programs for gender equality in science are thus particularly necessary to support female senior authors, for Asian journals, and women from Asian institutes.
Effect of Buffers with Multiple Binding Sites on Calcium Waves
Authors: Kazmierczak Bogdan , Sneyd James , Tsai Je-Chiang
Published: December 2022

The existence and properties of intracellular waves of increased free cytoplasmic calcium concentration (calcium waves) are strongly affected by the binding and unbinding of calcium ions to a multitude of different buffers in the cell. These buffers can be mobile or immobile and, in general, have multiple binding sites that are not independent. Previous theoretical studies have focused on the case when each buffer molecule binds a single calcium ion. In this study, we analyze how calcium waves are affected by calcium buffers with two non-independent binding sites, and show that the interactions between the calcium binding sites can result in the emergence of new behaviors. In particular, for certain combinations of kinetic parameters, the profiles of buffer molecules with one calcium ion bound can be non-monotone.
Fortified milk-beverage with amphora algae and its functionality for aflatoxin inactivation in rats
Authors: Badr Ahmed Noah , Abdel-Salam Ahmed M. , Zaghloul Ahmed H. , Farrag Abdel Razik H.
Published: December 2022

Aflatoxins are considered a severe hazard, contaminate dietary products, and cause malignant alterations in liver tissues. Fermented milk (FM) is prepared using probiotic lactic acid strains. This investigation aimed to produce an integrated milk beverage, inactivating aflatoxins toxicity and biotransformation. The proximate analysis of the investigated materials and biochemical parameter changes of the in-vivo experiment were determined. Results reflected the extract’s valuable content of polysaccharides and antioxidants. Nine phenolics were identified predominantly with catechin (39.67 ± 1.5 µg/g). FM-fortification is reflected by enhancement in protein (49.5 ± 2.97 g/Kg) and fiber content (1.78 ± 0.54 g/Kg) compared to the FM content. Relative rats’ weight gain improved to 34.29% for the fortified-FM group close to the control; it was recorded at 16.47% for the AFM1 group. Alkaline phosphatase in AFM1 rats was 99.2 ± 1.86 U/L and decreased to 44.2 ± 0.71 U/L in the fortified-FM group (44.2 ± 0.71 U/L) to be close to the control group. Aflatoxin M1 rats exposure reflects tissue alterations and cell damage, which recorded lesser in rats treated by extract and beverage administrations. The beverage’s corrective action relied on two integrated mechanisms, aflatoxin-binding to bacterial and bioactivity interaction of extract substances. This beverage stopped tissue alterations that occurred due to aflatoxins. The result supports the future production of fortified-milk beverages as a bio-shield against aflatoxin toxicity, besides their nutritional and functional properties.
Do Ethnic-Racial Identity Dimensions Moderate the Relations of Outgroup Discrimination and Ingroup Marginalization to Self-esteem in Black and Latinx Undergraduates?
Authors: Wilson Antoinette R. , Leaper Campbell
Published: December 2022

Guided by social identity and intergroup theory, we tested how two facets of ethnic-racial identity—felt typicality (perceived similarity to other ingroup members) and ingroup ties (felt closeness to other ingroup members)—potentially buffer the negative effects of outgroup discrimination and ingroup marginalization on self-esteem. Participants included 407 Latinx (65%) and Black (35%) undergraduates (Mage = 24.72 years, 79% women, 21% men) who completed an online survey. Our analyses yielded three key findings. First, both outgroup discrimination and ingroup marginalization predicted lower self-esteem; however, this association was significantly stronger with ingroup marginalization than outgroup discrimination. Second, the association between ingroup marginalization and self-esteem was reduced when ethnic-racial identity variables were controlled. Felt ethnic-racial typicality additionally moderated the association between ingroup marginalization and self-esteem—whereby the negative association was stronger when individuals felt higher ethnic-racial typicality. Our findings expand understanding of the impact of marginalization and discrimination from those within and outside of one’s ethnic-racial group, respectively. We also discuss the differing roles of ethnic-racial identity when experiencing outgroup discrimination and ingroup marginalization.
In memory of Professor Nenad Mladenović (1951–2022)
Authors: Sifaleras Angelo
Published: December 2022

This article is dedicated to the memory of Professor Nenad Mladenović. It provides a short biography, a description of his main scientific achievements, and also testimonials from scholars all over the world who were collaborators for several years. This peer recognition highlights not only his exceptional academic career but also the integrity of his character.
Molecular pattern of a decrease in the rewarding effect of cocaine after an escalating-dose drug regimen
Authors: Kołosowska Karolina , Lehner Małgorzata , Skórzewska Anna , Gawryluk Aleksandra , Tomczuk Filip , Sobolewska Alicja , Turzyńska Danuta , Liguz-Lęcznar Monika , Bednarska-Makaruk Małgorzata , Maciejak Piotr , Wisłowska-Stanek Aleksandra
Published: December 2022

Background

Long-term cocaine exposure leads to dysregulation of the reward system and initiates processes that ultimately weaken its rewarding effects. Here, we studied the influence of an escalating-dose cocaine regimen on drug-associated appetitive behavior after a withdrawal period, along with corresponding molecular changes in plasma and the prefrontal cortex (PFC).

Methods

We applied a 5 day escalating-dose cocaine regimen in rats. We assessed anxiety-like behavior at the beginning of the withdrawal period in the elevated plus maze (EPM) test. The reinforcement properties of cocaine were evaluated in the Conditioned Place Preference (CPP) test along with ultrasonic vocalization (USV) in the appetitive range in a drug-associated context. We assessed corticosterone, proopiomelanocortin (POMC), β-endorphin, CART 55–102 levels in plasma (by ELISA), along with mRNA levels for D2 dopaminergic receptor (D2R), κ-receptor (KOR), orexin 1 receptor (OX1R), CART 55–102, and potential markers of cocaine abuse: miRNA-124 and miRNA-137 levels in the PFC (by PCR).

Results

Rats subjected to the escalating-dose cocaine binge regimen spent less time in the cocaine-paired compartment, and presented a lower number of appetitive USV episodes. These changes were accompanied by a decrease in corticosterone and CART levels, an increase in POMC and β-endorphin levels in plasma, and an increase in the mRNA for D2R and miRNA-124 levels, but a decrease in the mRNA levels for KOR, OX1R, and CART 55–102 in the PFC.

Conclusions

The presented data reflect a part of a bigger picture of a multilevel interplay between neurotransmitter systems and neuromodulators underlying processes associated with cocaine abuse.
Hubbard U through polaronic defect states
Authors: Falletta Stefano , Pasquarello Alfredo
Published: December 2022

Since the preliminary work of Anisimov and co-workers, the Hubbard corrected DFT+U functional has been used for predicting properties of correlated materials by applying on-site effective Coulomb interactions to specific orbitals. However, the determination of the Hubbard U parameter has remained under intense discussion despite the multitude of approaches proposed. Here, we define a selection criterion based on the use of polaronic defect states for the enforcement of the piecewise linearity of the total energy upon electron occupation. A good agreement with results from piecewise linear hybrid functionals is found for the electronic and structural properties of polarons, including the formation energies. The values of U determined in this way are found to give a robust description of the polaron energetics upon variation of the considered state. In particular, we also address a polaron hopping pathway, finding that the determined value of U leads to accurate energetics without requiring a configurational-dependent U. It is emphasized that the selection of U should be based on physical properties directly associated with the orbitals to which U is applied, rather than on more global properties such as band gaps and band widths. For comparison, we also determine U through a well-established linear-response scheme finding noticeably different values of U and consequently different formation energies. Possible origins of these discrepancies are discussed. As case studies, we consider the self-trapped electron in BiVO4, the self-trapped hole in MgO, the Li-trapped hole in MgO, and the Al-trapped hole in α-SiO2.
Protistan epibionts affect prey selectivity patterns and vulnerability to predation in a cyclopoid copepod
Authors: Kumar Ram , Kumari Suman , Malika Anshu , Sharma A. P. , Dahms Hans-Uwe
Published: December 2022

Colonisation of crustacean zooplankton with ciliate epibionts is widespread in freshwater and marine environments. However, the ecology of such association are little studied as yet. The occurrence of ciliate epibionts on copepods and the preference towards this association with different life stages of Mesocyclops were studied from winter to spring. Relative susceptibility of zooplankton species was evaluated by analysing the epibiont colonies and zooids and relate this to the surface area of the host. The maximum epibiont infestation per unit body surface area was recorded on copepodites followed by copepod nauplii rather than other zooplankton species, whereas the rotifer Asplanchna was never affected. Influence of climatic factors such as temperature on the colonisation of epibionts on basibionts was found significant. In winter (November to February) samples, copepods were infested by autotrophic epibionts whereas in late spring and early summer (March–April) heterotrophic protists (peritrichian ciliates) were the sole epibionts on copepods. We conducted experiments in the laboratory on prey selection pattern of predators by direct visual and video-graphic observations of various events (encounter, attack, capture, ingestion, prey escape) during predation by infested and uninfested copepodites and adults of Mesocyclops. Postencounter the attack probability was significantly lower in infested than in uninfested copepods. The present paper reports on substrate preference by epibionts and their impacts in food rich and food scarce environments. Furthermore, major environmental interactions were studied with the reproductive phenology of copepods with respect to epibionts and the cause and effect of long term association of epibionts with copepods need to be addressed.
Development of a high-performance open-source 3D bioprinter
Authors: Tashman Joshua W. , Shiwarski Daniel J. , Feinberg Adam W.
Published: December 2022

The application of 3D printing to biological research has provided the tissue engineering community with a method for organizing cells and biological materials into complex 3D structures. While many commercial bioprinting platforms exist, they are expensive, ranging from $5000 to over $1,000,000. This high cost of entry prevents many labs from incorporating 3D bioprinting into their research. Due to the open-source nature of desktop plastic 3D printers, an alternative option has been to convert low-cost plastic printers into bioprinters. Several open-source modifications have been described, but there remains a need for a user-friendly, step-by-step guide for converting a thermoplastic printer into a bioprinter using components with validated performance. Here we convert a low-cost 3D printer, the FlashForge Finder, into a bioprinter using our Replistruder 4 syringe pump and the Duet3D Duet 2 WiFi for total cost of less than $900. We demonstrate that the accuracy of the bioprinter’s travel is better than 35 µm in all three axes and quantify fidelity by printing square lattice collagen scaffolds with average errors less than 2%. We also show high fidelity reproduction of clinical-imaging data by printing a scaffold of a human ear using collagen bioink. Finally, to maximize accessibility and customizability, all components we have designed for the bioprinter conversion are provided as open-source 3D models, along with instructions for further modifying the bioprinter for additional use cases, resulting in a comprehensive guide for the bioprinting field.
Situation assessment in air combat considering incomplete frame of discernment in the generalized evidence theory
Authors: Zhou Ying , Tang Yongchuan , Zhao Xiaozhe
Published: December 2022

For situation assessment in air combat, there may be incomplete information because of new technologies and unknown or uncertain targets and threats. In this paper, an improved method of situation assessment for air combat environment considering incomplete frame of discernment in the evidence theory is proposed to get a more accurate fusion result for decision making in the battlefield environment. First, the situation in air combat is assessed with knowledge. Then, the incomplete frame of discernment in the generalized evidence theory, which is an extension of Dempster–Shafer evidence theory, is adopted to model the incomplete and unknown situation assessment. After that, the generalized combination rule in the generalized evidence theory is adopted for fusion of situations in intelligent air combat. Finally, real-time decision-making in situation assessment can be reached for actions to take. Experiments in situation assessment of air combat with incomplete and uncertain situations show the rationality and effectiveness of the proposed method.
Significance of thermal radiation and bioconvection for Williamson nanofluid transportation owing to cone rotation
Authors: Abdal Sohaib , Siddique Imran , Eldin Sayed M. , Bilal Muhammad , Hussain Sajjad
Published: December 2022

Numerical investigation for enhancement in thermal distribution of unsteady dynamics of Williamson nanofluids and ordinary nanofluids flow across extending surface of a rotating cone is represented in this communication. Bio-convection of gyrotactic micro-organisms and thermal radiative fluxes with magnetic fields are significant physical aspects of the study. The velocity slip conditions are considered along x and y directions. The leading formulation is transmuted into ordinary differential form via similarity functions. Five coupled equations with non-linear terms are resolved numerically through the utilization of Matlab code for the Runge–Kutta procedure. The parameters of buoyancy ratio and bio-convection Rayleigh number decrease the x-direction velocity. The slip parameter being proportional to viscosity reduces the speed of flow and hence rise in temperature. Also, the temperature rises with the rising values of magnetic field strength, radiative heat transportation, Brownian motion and thermophorsis.
miRNA expression profiles of the perilesional skin of atopic dermatitis and psoriasis patients are highly similar
Authors: Carreras-Badosa Gemma , Maslovskaja Julia , Vaher Helen , Pajusaar Laura , Annilo Tarmo , Lättekivi Freddy , Hübenthal Matthias , Rodriguez Elke , Weidinger Stephan , Kingo Külli , Rebane Ana
Published: December 2022

Atopic dermatitis (AD) and psoriasis vulgaris (PV) are chronic inflammatory skin diseases with heterogeneous molecular backgrounds. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) contribute to either development or regulation of many immune system related diseases. Only few miRNA profiling studies are available for AD and no comparisons between AD and PV skin miRNA profiles have been performed recently. We conducted a miRNA profiling analysis of skin, as well as serum, from adult AD and PV patients and control individuals. 130 miRNAs were differentially expressed in AD skin, of which 77 were common differentially expressed in AD and PV. No differentially expressed miRNAs were detected in serum. Pathway analyses revealed differentially expressed miRNAs to potentially target immune-system related pathways, including TNF-α, IL-2/STAT4 and IL-6/JAK/STAT3. Additional genetic analysis of published AD GWAS dataset detected association of several target genes of differentially expressed miRNAs in skin. Moreover, miR-28-5p, miR-31-5p, miR-378a-3p and miR-203a were validated as upregulated in the skin of AD and PV patients. All validated miRNAs were reliable predictive markers for AD or PV. In conclusion, miRNA expression pattern in the skin of adult AD patients is highly similar to that of PV with multiple differentially expressed miRNAs potentially involved in the regulation of immune responses in AD and PV.