bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Thermodynamic theory on division of a vesicle enclosing colloid polystyrene spheres
Authors: Ueta Tsuyoshi
Published: February 2023

A decade ago, experimental observations indicated that the repulsion between particles contained within a vesicle is a factor that induces the transformation of the vesicle. Recently, such a deformation was investigated in detail by means of the numerical simulation, whereas the division of a vesicle has never been realized. Its physical mechanism is not clear. In the present paper, a division rule is thermodynamically studied using the free energy including repulsion between polystyrene spheres. The number of daughter vesicles is given as a function of the ratio of osmotic pressure to surface energy.
Polarization-independent enhanced and tunable Goos-Hänchen shift in a metal-dielectric grating structure with monolayer graphene
Authors: Zhou Jun , Hu Pengya , Song Qi , Yin Dekang , Da Haixia
Published: February 2023

The sensitivity of Goos-Hänchen (GH) shifts on the geometric parameters of the structures suggest their great application prospects in sensing and detection. However, most of the enhanced GH shifts are achieved under either the transverse electric (TE) wave or transverse magnetic (TM) polarized wave. Here, we theoretically demonstrate that the well-designed metal-dielectric grating structure with monolayer graphene has the potential for realizing the enhanced GH shifts under both the TE and TM polarized waves at the same specific wavelength, which is dramatically different from the previous works and suggests that the enhancement of the GH shift is polarization independent. In particular, the enhancement of the GH shift obtained in this structure under the TE polarized wave is caused by the excited guided mode resonance in the dielectric layers of the grating strip. Moreover, the enhancement of the GH shift under the TM polarized wave is mainly due to the excited surface plasmon polariton at the interface between the dielectric layer and the metal layer in the top of grating strip. We also find that the size and sign of the GH shift can be controlled by the chemical potential of monolayer graphene and the geometric parameters of this structure. The highly controllable and polarization independent GH shift in the metal-dielectric grating structure with monolayer graphene paves the way for the future applications in the polarization independent devices, such as, optical sensors, optical switches and so on.
High-performance photodetector based on semi-encompassed CH3NH3PbCl3–ZnO microwire heterojunction with alterable spectral response
Authors: Cheng Zhen , Liu Kewei , Qiao Baoshi , Yang Jialin , Chen Xing , Ai Qiu , Zhu Yongxue , Li Binghui , Liu Lei , Shen Dezhen
Published: February 2023

Recently, heterojunctions consisting of hybrid organic-inorganic lead (Pb) halide perovskites and other semiconductors have drawn increasing attention for the potential application in photodetectors due to their exceptional performance. However, their performance is usually limited by the relatively low crystalline quality of perovskites, and the response spectra of the devices are difficult to adjust according to the practical requirement. Here, high quality CH3NH3PbCl3 micro-sized crystals have been successfully fabricated on one side of individual ZnO microwire to form heterojunction photodetector by a two-step crystallization method. The heterojunction device presents a low dark current (60 nA at −6 V) along with a rapid response speed (rise time of <20 μs and fall time of ∼500 μs). More interestingly, the modulation of the response spectra and the responsivity can be realized by operating the device under front or back illumination due to the self-filtering properties. Our findings provide a promising method for combining perovskites with other inorganic materials to form high-performance heterojunction photodetectors.
Numerical simulation of cathode-spot crater formation and deuterium desorption process on hydrogen titanium cathode with flux boundary conditions and different impregnation degree
Authors: Wang Lijun , Gao Hexiao , Li Jiagang , Zhang Runming , Sun Qiang , Yang Wei
Published: February 2023

In this paper, the crater formation process of single cathode spot on hydrogen titanium electrode is modeled. In this model, combined with the deuterium diffusion equation, the flux boundary condition was considered to calculate the cathode spot desorption rate with different impregnation degree, and the deformation process of the cathode spot crater was simulated by a hydrodynamic model. The simulation results show that the current, size, and depth of a single cathode spot crater tend to decrease with increasing impregnation degree, which is consistent with many related experimental results. The simulation result shows that the desorption of deuterium in a single cathode spot crater mainly occurs in the ignition stage, and the positions of desorption are successively distributed in the liquid metal flow area on the side wall of the crater and the high temperature area in the center of the crater. The desorption rate of deuterium drops rapidly after cathode spot quenching. At the same time, the increase of arc current and impregnation degree can improve the deuterium desorption rate of a single cathode spot.
Dark matter production via a non-minimal coupling to gravity
Authors: Lebedev Oleg , Solomko Timofey , Yoon Jong-Hyun
Published: February 2023

We study postinflationary scalar dark matter production via its non-minimal
coupling to gravity. During the inflaton oscillation epoch, dark matter is produced
resonantly for a sufficiently large non-minimal coupling ξ ≳ 5. We find that
backreaction on the curvature and rescattering effects typically become important for the
values of ξ above 30, which invalidate simple estimates of the production
efficiency. At large couplings, the dark matter yield becomes almost independent of 
ξ, signifying approximate quasi-equilibrium in the inflaton-dark matter system.
Although the analysis gets complicated by the presence of apparent negative energy in the
Jordan frame, this behaviour can be regularized by introducing mild dark matter
self-interaction. Using lattice simulations, we delineate parameter space leading to the
correct dark matter relic abundance.
IC-LDPC Polar codes-based reconciliation for continuous-variable quantum key distribution at low signal-to-noise ratio
Authors: Cao Zhengwen , Chen Xinlei , Chai Geng , Peng Jinye
Published: February 2023

The error correction of information reconciliation affects the performance of the continuous-variable quantum key distribution (CV-QKD). Polar codes can be strictly proven to reach the Shannon-limit. However, due to the insufficient polarization of finite code-length, partial subchannels are neither completely noise-free nor completely noisy. In this paper, an intermediate channel low-density parity check code concatenated polar code (IC-LDPC Polar codes)-based reconciliation for CV-QKD is proposed for the above shortcomings. The experimental results show that the reconciliation efficiency of IC-LDPC Polar code can be over 98% when the signal-to-noise ratio is from −13.2 dB to −20.8 dB, the secret keys can be extracted, and the minimum frame error rate (FER) is 0.19. Therefore, the proposed scheme can improve the reconciliation efficiency and reduce the FER at a very low signal-to-noise ratio range, and it is more useful for a practical long-distance CV-QKD system.
J-PET detection modules based on plastic scintillators for performing studies with positron and positronium beams
Authors: Sharma S. , Baran J. , Brusa R.S. , Caravita R. , Chug N. , Coussat A. , Curceanu C. , Czerwiński E. , Dadgar M. , Dulski K. , Eliyan K. , Gajos A. , Hiesmayr B.C. , Kacprzak K. , Kapłon Ł. , Klimaszewski K. , Konieczka P. , Korcyl G. , Kozik T. , Krzemień W. , Kumar D. , Mariazzi S. , Niedźwiecki S. , Panasa L. , Parzych S. , Povolo L. , Perez del Rio E. , Raczyński L. , Shivani  , Shopa R.Y. , Skurzok M. , Stȩpień E.Ł. , Tayefi F. , Tayefi K. , Wiślicki W. , Moskal P.
Published: February 2023

The J-PET detector, which consists of inexpensive plastic scintillators, has demonstrated its potential in the study of fundamental physics. In recent years, a prototype with 192 plastic scintillators arranged in 3 layers has been optimized for the study of positronium decays. This allows performing precision tests of discrete symmetries (C, P, T) in the decays of positronium atoms. Moreover, thanks to the possibility of measuring the polarization direction of the photon based on Compton scattering, the predicted entanglement between the linear polarization of annihilation photons in positronium decays can also be studied. Recently, a new J-PET prototype was commissioned, based on a modular design of detection units. Each module consists of 13 plastic scintillators and can be used as a stand-alone, compact and portable detection unit. In this paper, the main features of the J-PET detector, the modular prototype and their applications for possible studies with positron and positronium beams are discussed. Preliminary results of the first test experiment performed on two detection units in the continuous positron beam recently developed at the Antimatter Laboratory (AML) of Trento are also reported.
Local, regional, and global adaptations to a compound pandemic-weather stress event
Authors: Haqiqi Iman , Grogan Danielle S , Bahalou Horeh Marziyeh , Liu Jing , Baldos Uris L C , Lammers Richard , Hertel Thomas W
Published: February 2023

Global food security can be threatened by short-term extreme events that negatively impact food production, food purchasing power, and agricultural economic activity. At the same time, environmental pollutants like greenhouse gases (GHGs) can be reduced due to the same short-term extreme stressors. Stress events include pandemics like COVID-19 and widespread droughts like those experienced in 2015. Here we consider the question: what if COVID-19 had co-occurred with a 2015-like drought year? Using a coupled biophysical-economic modeling framework, we evaluate how this compound stress would alter both agricultural sector GHG emissions and change the number of undernourished people worldwide. We further consider three interdependent adaptation options: local water use for crop production, regional shifts in cropland area, and global trade of agricultural products. We find that GHG emissions decline due to reduced economic activity in the agricultural sector, but this is paired with large increases in undernourished populations in developing nations. Local and regional adaptations that make use of natural resources enable global-scale reductions in impacted populations via increased global trade.
Feasibility of conductive embroidered threads for I2C sensors in microcontroller-based wearable electronics
Authors: Volpes Gabriele , Valenti Simone , Zafar Hima , Pernice Riccardo , Stojanović Goran M
Published: February 2023

In recent years, the importance of flexible and textile electronics in the field of wearable devices has continuously increased, as they are expected to replace conventional wires that exhibit limited resistance to the mechanical stress occurring in on-body applications. Wearable health devices (WHDs) can provide physiological information about various body parts and employ distributed sensor networks. Among the sensors typically integrated within WHDs, those based on the I2C communication protocol are very common and exploit signals transmitted at frequencies up to hundreds of kilohertz. Therefore, robust communication is required to guarantee a proper transmission of the signal at those frequencies. In this context, we have realized embroidered conductive threads exhibiting a lower resistance, appositely designed to replace conventional wires in a microcontroller-based wearable device employing I2C sensors. A commercial conductive thread (silver coated polyamide) was used to embroider the conductive lines on to cotton fabric. Preliminary measurements were performed to characterize the response of these materials to signals typically operated within the I2C communication protocol at different path lengths. Resistive measurements have also been performed to stimulate different environmental conditions, that is, temperature, the effect of sweating, and repeated washing cycles, also apply mechanical stress, i.e. twisting, with promising results that validate our conductive paths for digital signal communication.
Personal air pollution exposure and metals in the nasal epithelial lining fluid of COPD patients
Authors: Zetlen Hilary L , Stanley Lee Anna , Nurhussien Lina , Sun Wendy , Kang Choong-Min , Zanobetti Antonella , Rice Mary B
Published: February 2023

Sampling of the nasal epithelial lining fluid is a potential method to assess exposure to air pollution within the respiratory tract among high risk populations. We investigated associations of short- and long-term particulate matter exposure (PM) and pollution-related metals in the nasal fluid of people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). This study included 20 participants with moderate-to-severe COPD from a larger study who measured long-term personal exposure to PM2.5 using portable air monitors and short-term PM2.5 and black carbon (BC) using in-home samplers for the seven days preceding nasal fluid collection. Nasal fluid was sampled from both nares by nasosorption, and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry was used to determine the concentration of metals with major airborne sources. Correlations of selected elements (Fe, Ba, Ni, Pb, V, Zn, Cu) were determined within the nasal fluid. Associations between personal long-term PM2.5 and seven day home PM2.5 and BC exposure and nasal fluid metal concentrations were determined by linear regression. Within nasal fluid samples, concentrations of vanadium and nickel (r = 0.8) and lead and zinc (r = 0.7) were correlated. Seven day and long-term PM2.5 exposure were both associated with higher levels of copper, lead, and vanadium in the nasal fluid. BC exposure was associated with higher levels of nickel in the nasal fluid. Levels of certain metals in the nasal fluid may serve as biomarkers of air pollution exposure in the upper respiratory tract.
Intervention studies to reduce the impact of climate change on health in rural communities in the United States: a systematic review
Authors: Smith Daniel J , Mizelle Elizabeth , Leslie Sharon L , Li Grace X , Stone Sheila , Stauffer Peyton , Smith Anna , Lewis Gianna , Rodden E Lola , McDermott-Levy Ruth , Thompson Lisa M
Published: February 2023

Climate change, the greatest public health threat of the 21st century, will uniquely affect rural areas that are geographically isolated and experience greater health inequities. This systematic review describes and evaluates interventions to lessen the effects of climate change on human health in the rural United States, including interventions on air pollution, vector ecology, water quality, severe weather, extreme heat, allergens, and water and food supply. Searches were constructed based on the eight domains of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Framework “Impact of Climate Change on Human Health.” Searches were conducted in EBSCO Environment Complete, EBSCO GreenFILE, Embase.com, MEDLINE via PubMed, and Web of Science. Duplicate citations were removed, abstracts were screened for initial inclusion, and full texts were screened for final inclusion. Pertinent data were extracted and synthesized across the eight domains. Article quality was assessed using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool. Of 8471 studies screened, 297 were identified for full text review, and a total 49 studies were included in this review. Across the domains, 34 unique interventions addressed health outcomes due to air pollution (n = 8), changes in vector ecology (n = 6), water quality (n = 5), severe weather (n = 3), extreme heat (n = 2) increasing allergens (n = 1), water and food supply (n = 1), and across multiple CDC domains (n = 8). Participatory action research methodology was commonly used and strived to mobilize/empower communities to tackle climate change. Our review identified three randomized controlled trials, with two of these three published in the last five years. While original research on the impact of climate change on health has increased in the past decade, randomized control trials may not be ethical, cost effective, or feasible. There is a need for time-efficient and high-quality scholarship that investigates intervention efficacy and effectiveness for reducing health impacts of climate change upon rural populations.
Playing the Classics: Constructing a Digital Game Adaptation Database
Authors: Sanders John
Published: February 2023

Due in no small part to the proliferation of accessible game design software, digital crowd-funding infrastructure, and academic programs in game studies, the amount of video games based upon works of ‘classic’ literature and drama has grown exponentially in the last few decades. In order to help scholars and educators get a foothold in the world of video game adaptations, the ‘Remixing the Classics’ scholarly network initiated a Video Game Adaptation Database in the summer of 2022. This companion piece to the database will help orient the uninitiated by explaining the project’s origin, methodology, and organisational criteria, as well as provide an introduction to some of the formal, generic, intertextual, and accessibility concerns involved in studying game adaptations. Along the way, it aims to introduce readers to a variety of game adaptations both in and outside of the database, including Walden, a game (USC Game Innovation Lab 2017), Elsinore (Golden Glitch 2019), and Toho’s infamous Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde (1988).

VITA: John Sanders is a Visiting Assistant Professor of English and the Humanities at Reed College, where he teaches classes on literature, new media, and classical Hollywood genre film. His current research involves theorising an approach to studying digital and analog game adaptations as intertextual systems of experience. His work has appeared in journals such as gamevironments and First-Person Scholar as well as in presentations at the Society for Cinema and Media Studies conference, the Literature/Film Association conference, and PAX East. Outside of academia, John has worked as a curriculum designer, site director, and instructor for local summer enrichment programs. John currently splits his time between Portland and his partner’s home in Denville, New Jersey, which they share with their three dogs: Neo, Henry, and Mr. Darcy.
Patients’ satisfaction with local and general anaesthesia for video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery—results of the first randomized controlled trial PASSAT
Authors: Galetin Thomas , Eckermann Christoph , Defosse Jerome M , Kraja Olger , Lopez-Pastorini Alberto , Merres Julika , Koryllos Aris , Stoelben Erich
Published: February 2023

OBJECTIVES

The objective of this single-centre, open, randomized control trial was to compare the patients’ satisfaction with local anaesthesia (LA) or general anaesthesia (GA) for video-assisted thoracoscopy.

METHODS

Patients with indication for video-assisted thoracoscopy pleural management, mediastinal biopsies or lung wedge resections were randomized for LA or GA. LA was administered along with no or mild sedation and no airway devices maintaining spontaneous breathing, and GA was administered along with double-lumen tube and one-lung ventilation. The primary end point was anaesthesia-related satisfaction according to psychometrically validated questionnaires. Patients not willing to be randomized could attend based on their desired anaesthesia, forming the preference arm.

RESULTS

Fifty patients were allocated to LA and 57 patients to GA. Age, smoking habits and lung function were similarly distributed in both groups. There was no significant difference between the 2 groups with regard to patient satisfaction with anaesthesiology care (median 2.75 vs 2.75, P = 0.74), general perioperative care (2.50 vs 2.50, P = 0.57), recovery after surgery (2.00 vs 2.00, P = 0.16, 3-point Likert scales). Surgeons and anaesthesiologists alike were less satisfied with feasibility (P < 0.01 each) with patients in the LA group. Operation time, postoperative pain scales, delirium and complication rate were similar in both groups. LA patients had a significantly shorter stay in hospital (mean 3.9 vs 6.0 days, P < 0.01). Of 18 patients in the preference arm, 17 chose LA, resulting in similar satisfaction.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients were equally satisfied with both types of anaesthesia, regardless of whether the type of anaesthesia was randomized or deliberately chosen. LA is as safe as GA but correlated with shorter length of stay. Almost all patients of the preference arm chose LA. Considering the benefits of LA, it should be offered to patients as an equivalent alternative to GA whenever medically appropriate and feasible.
Vaccines and cardiovascular outcomes: lessons learned from influenza epidemics
Authors: Yedlapati Siva H , Mendu Anuradha , Tummala Venkat R , Maganti Sowmith S , Nasir Khurram , Khan Safi U
Published: February 2023

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death in the world and is largely preventable. An increasing amount of evidence suggests that annual influenza vaccination reduces CVD-related morbidity and mortality. Despite various clinical guidelines recommending annual influenza vaccination for the general population for influenza-like illness risk reduction, with a particular emphasis on people with CVD, vaccination rates fall consistently below the goal established by the World Health Organization. This review outlines the importance of influenza vaccination, mechanisms of cardiovascular events in influenza, summarizing the available literature on the effects of influenza vaccine in CVD and the benefits of influenza vaccine during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Myocardial infarction and viral triggers: what do we know by now?
Authors: Caldeira Daniel , Nogueira-Garcia Beatriz
Published: February 2023

Myocardial infarction (MI) is an acute clinical manifestation ischaemic heart disease, which is the leading cause of death worldwide. Infections also have an important burden worldwide, with lower respiratory infections being the worldwide leading cause of death due to communicable diseases. The relationship of MI with viral respiratory infections (including influenza and SARS-CoV-2) as a trigger has been well documented with significant associations. These infections can lead to Type 1 MI, where inflammation and vascular dysfunction, as well as the increased prothrombotic environment lead to atherothrombosis. Type 2 MI may also occur due to an imbalance of oxygen/blood supply and myocardial demand (hypoxaemia, fever, and tachycardia). The data from randomized controlled trials showing a potential benefit of influenza vaccination in coronary artery disease patients should not be ignored. This can be considered a further argument for the association of viral infections (influenza in particular) and MI.
Wolbachia and Spiroplasma endosymbionts in the Anurida maritima (Collembola) species group
Authors: Timmermans Martijn J T N , Prabha Hari , Kett Stephen
Published: February 2023

A large proportion of arthropods carry maternally-inherited endosymbiotic bacteria with which they have developed close relationships. Some of these endosymbionts are selfish genetic elements and manipulate their hosts’ reproduction to their own advantage, for example via cytoplasmic incompatibility (CI) or male killing. Here we report that the sexually reproducing collembolan Anurida maritima carries two endosymbionts (Wolbachia and Spiroplasma) and provide genome sequences for both bacteria. Phylogenomic analyses indicate that the Wolbachia belong to the A supergroup and that the Spiroplasma are sister to the Citri-Chrysopicola-Mirum lineage. Anurida maritima is considered a species group and consists of at least two distinct genetic lineages. We show that both lineages carry both endosymbionts. No homologues of the Spiroplasma male-killing gene SpAID were observed within our datasets. Homologues of the male-killing associated wmk and the CI inducing cifA and cifB prophage genes were detected in the Wolbachia genome. Phylogenetic analyses placed the cif genes in the poorly characterized Type V clade. The cifA and cifB gene sequences of the two Anurida lineages are identical. It therefore seems unlikely that the genetic divergence within the species group stems from cifA and cifB induced CI. Laboratory controlled genetic crosses and sex ratio studies will be needed to reveal any potential effect of the two endosymbionts on A. maritima’s reproduction.
“I Lay Awake at Night”: Latino Family Caregivers’ Experiences Covering Out-of-Pocket Costs When Caring for Someone Living With Dementia
Authors: Mage Susanna , Benton Donna , Gonzalez Alexander , Zaragoza Gabby , Wilber Kate , Tucker-Seeley Reginald , Meyer Kylie
Published: February 2023

Background and Objectives

The financial burden of caregiving has received less research attention than physical and emotional costs. This is especially true for underserved ethnic minorities. Financial strain affects mental and physical health and is unequally distributed across caregivers of different races and ethnicities. Although caregivers overall spend, on average, one quarter of their income on caregiving, Latino caregivers, the focus of this study, spend nearly half.

Research Design and Methods

To better understand this disparity, we conducted 11 qualitative interviews with 14 Latino caregivers of persons living with dementia located in either California or Texas. Interview transcripts were thematically coded, guided by a material–psychosocial–behavioral conceptual model of financial strain.

Results

We identified 3 themes: daily needs and costs, psychological distress caused by financial issues, and stressful barriers to accessing family and societal support. Furthermore, interviews revealed how Latino culture may influence spending patterns and management of costs. Findings suggest that preference by Latino families to care for a family member in the home may be met with a financial disadvantage due to the high out-of-pocket costs of care.

Discussion and Implications

A better understanding of the factors contributing to high costs for Latino caregivers and how these costs affect caregivers will inform approaches at both the individual and policy levels and develop culturally relevant interventions to help Latino families to lower caregiving costs. This is especially important as the number of Latinos living with dementia is expected to increase over the next 4 decades and effective interventions are lacking.
Harish-Chandra Modules over Hopf Galois Orders
Authors: Hartwig Jonas T
Published: February 2023

The theory of Galois orders was introduced by Futorny and Ovsienko [9]. We introduce the notion of $\mathcal {H}$-Galois $\Lambda $-orders. These are certain noncommutative orders $F$ in a smash product of the fraction field of a noetherian integral domain $\Lambda $ by a Hopf algebra ${\mathcal {H}}$ (or, more generally, by a coideal subalgebra of a Hopf algebra). They are generalizations of Webster’s [25] principal flag orders. Examples include Cherednik algebras, as well as examples from Hopf Galois theory. We also define spherical Galois orders, which are the corresponding generalizations of principal Galois orders introduced by the author [12]. The main results are (1) for every maximal ideal $\mathfrak {m}$ of $\Lambda $ of finite codimension, there exists a simple Harish-Chandra $F$-module in the fiber of $\mathfrak {m}$; (2) for every character of $\Lambda $, we construct a canonical simple Harish-Chandra module as a subquotient of the module of local distributions; (3) if a certain stabilizer coalgebra is finite-dimensional, then the corresponding fiber of simple Harish-Chandra modules is finite; and (4) centralizers of symmetrizing idempotents are spherical Galois orders and every spherical Galois order appears that way.
Timing and distance of natal dispersal in Asian black bears
Authors: Takayama Kaede , Ohnishi Naoki , Zedrosser Andreas , Anezaki Tomoko , Tochigi Kahoko , Inagaki Akino , Naganuma Tomoko , Yamazaki Koji , Koike Shinsuke
Published: February 2023

Dispersal has important implications for population ecology and genetics of a species through redistribution of individuals. In most mammals, males leave their natal area before they reach sexual maturity, whereas females are commonly philopatric. Here, we investigate the patterns of natal dispersal in the Asian black bear (Ursus thibetanus) based on data from 550 bears (378 males, 172 females) captured or removed in Gunma and Tochigi prefectures on central Honshu Island, Japan in 2003–2018. We used genetic data and parentage analysis to investigate sex-biased differences in the distance of natal dispersal. We further investigated the age of dispersal using spatial autocorrelation analysis, that is, the change in the correlation between genetic and geographic distances in each sex and age group. Our results revealed that male dispersal distances (mean ± SE = 17.4 ± 3.5 km) were significantly farther than female distances (4.8 ± 1.7 km), and the results were not affected by years of mast failures, a prominent forage source for this population. Based on an average adult female home range radius of 1.8 km, 96% of the males and 50% of the females dispersed. In the spatial autocorrelation analysis, the changes in the relationship between genetic and geographic distances were more pronounced in males compared to females. Males seem to mostly disperse at age 3 regardless of mast productivity, and they gradually disperse far from their home range, but young and inexperienced males may return to their natal home range in years with poor food conditions. The results suggest that factors driving the dispersal process seem to be population structure-based instead of forage availability-based. In females, a significant genetic relationship was observed among all individuals in the group with a minimum age of 6 years within a distance of 2 km, which resulted in the formation of matrilineal assemblages.
A randomized trial on the effectiveness and safety of 5 water-based personal lubricants
Authors: Palacios Santiago , Hood Sarah , Abakah-Phillips Temitayo , Savania Nina , Krychman Michael
Published: February 2023

Background

A range of personal lubricants with different formulations and subsequent properties are available for relief of discomfort associated with vaginal dryness; however, there are limited clinical data to support the efficacy and safety of many commercially available lubricants.

Aim

To determine the effectiveness and safety of 5 water-based personal lubricants for the relief of intimate discomfort associated with vaginal dryness in pre- and postmenopausal women: 4 that were formulated to meet the World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines for osmolality and pH and 1 preexisting lubricant of higher osmolality and pH.

Methods

An open-label, parallel-design study was performed in women aged 18 to 65 years with mild-to-moderate vaginal dryness and dyspareunia. Participants were randomized to 1 of 5 lubricants (A-E) from 3 brands (Durex, KY, Queen V). They were instructed to use their allocated lubricants during vaginal intercourse at least once a week over a 4-week period. The Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) measured sexual functioning after 4 weeks of use as an indicator of lubricant performance.

Outcomes

The primary outcome was change from baseline in total FSFI score after 4 weeks of product use.

Results

A total of 174 women completed the study. The primary end point—a prespecified increase in FSFI ≥4 points from baseline after 4 weeks of use—was met by all 5 lubricants tested. A statistically significant improvement was observed across all 6 domains of the FSFI from baseline to 4 weeks of use with all 5 lubricants (P < .0001 for lubrication and pain reduction and P < .05 for all other domains). No serious adverse events occurred in the study, and the tolerance of all 5 lubricants was good/very good.

Clinical Implications

The efficacy and safety of the tested lubricants are not compromised when formulated to meet the WHO criterion of osmolality ≤1200 mOsm/kg. The lubricants tested in this investigation can be used not only to relieve symptomatology of vaginal dryness and dyspareunia but also to enhance overall sexual satisfaction.

Strengths and Limitations

This study provides clinical evidence for the efficacy and safety of 5 lubricants, including those formulated to meet WHO guidelines, in relieving symptoms of vaginal dryness and improving the overall sexual experience. The open-label design may have introduced bias into the study.

Conclusion

All 5 lubricants, including those formulated to be compliant with guidelines on pH and osmolality, can be considered effective and well tolerated for the relief of discomfort associated with vaginal dryness.
Characteristics of men who report symptoms of delayed ejaculation: providing support for empirically derived diagnostic criteria
Authors: Rowland David L , Attinger Drew R , Morrow Abigail L , Motofei Ion , Hevesi Krisztina
Published: February 2023

Background

Little is known regarding the demographic, sexual, and relationship characteristics of men with symptoms of delayed ejaculation (DE).

Aim

To identify differences between men with and without DE symptomology to validate face-valid diagnostic criteria and to identify various functional correlates of DE.

Methods

A total of 2679 men meeting inclusion criteria were partitioned into groups with and without DE symptomology on the basis of their self-reported “difficulty reaching ejaculation/orgasm during partnered sex.” Men were then compared on a broad array of demographic and relationship variables, as well as sexual response variables assessed during partnered sex and masturbation.

Outcomes

Outcomes included the identified differences between men with and without DE symptomology.

Results

Men with DE—whether having comorbid erectile dysfunction or not—differed from men without DE on 5 face-valid variables related to previously proposed diagnostic criteria for DE, including ones related to ejaculation latency (P < .001); self-efficacy related to reaching ejaculation, as assessed by the percentage of episodes reaching ejaculation during partnered sex (P < .001); and negative consequences of the impairment, including “bother/distress” and (lack of) “orgasmic pleasure/sexual satisfaction” (P < .001). All such differences were associated with medium to large effect sizes. In addition, men showed differences on a number of functional correlates of DE, including anxiety, relationship satisfaction, frequency of partnered sex and masturbation, and level of symptomology during partnered sex vs masturbation (P < .001).

Clinical Implications

Face-valid criteria for the diagnosis of DE were statistically verified, and functional correlates of DE relevant to guiding and focusing treatment were identified.

Strengths and Limitations

In this first comprehensive analysis of its kind, we have demonstrated widespread differences on sexual and relationship variables relevant to the diagnosis of DE and to its functional correlates between men with and without DE symptomology during partnered sex. Limitations include participant recruitment through social media, which likely biased the sample; the use of estimated rather than clocked ejaculation latencies; and the fact that differences between men with acquired and lifelong DE were not investigated.

Conclusion

This well-powered multinational study provides strong empirical support for several face-valid measures for the diagnosis of DE, with a number of explanatory and control covariates that may help shed light on the lived experiences of men with DE and suggest focus areas for treatment. Whether or not the DE men had comorbid erectile dysfunction had little impact on the differences with men having normal ejaculatory functioning.
The transcription factor POPEYE negatively regulates the expression of bHLH Ib genes to maintain iron homeostasis
Authors: Pu Meng Na , Liang Gang
Published: February 2023

Iron (Fe) is an essential trace element for plants. When suffering from Fe deficiency, plants modulate the expression of Fe deficiency-responsive genes to promote Fe uptake. POPEYE (PYE) is a key bHLH (basic helix-loop-helix) transcription factor involved in Fe homeostasis. However, the molecular mechanism of PYE regulating the Fe deficiency response remains elusive in Arabidopsis. We found that the overexpression of PYE attenuates the expression of Fe deficiency-responsive genes. PYE directly represses the transcription of bHLH Ib genes (bHLH38, bHLH39, bHLH100, and bHLH101) by associating with their promoters. Although PYE contains an ethylene response factor-associated amphiphilic repression (EAR) motif, it does not interact with the transcriptional co-repressors TOPLESS/TOPLESS-RELATED (TPL/TPRs). Sub-cellular localization analysis indicated that PYE localizes in both the cytoplasm and nucleus. PYE contains a nuclear export signal (NES) which is required for the cytoplasmic localization of PYE. Mutation of the NES amplifies the repression function of PYE, resulting in down-regulation of Fe deficiency-responsive genes. Co-expression assays indicated that three bHLH IVc members (bHLH104, bHLH105/ILR3, and bHLH115) facilitate the nuclear accumulation of PYE. Conversely, PYE indirectly represses the transcription activation ability of bHLH IVc. Additionally, PYE directly negatively regulates its own transcription. This study provides new insights into the Fe deficiency response signalling pathway and enhances the understanding of PYE functions in Arabidopsis.
The NIN-LIKE PROTEIN 7 transcription factor modulates auxin pathways to regulate root cap development in Arabidopsis
Authors: Kumar Narender , Caldwell , Chloe , Iyer-Pascuzzi Anjali S
Published: February 2023

The root cap is a small tissue located at the tip of the root with critical functions for root growth. Present in nearly all vascular plants, the root cap protects the root meristem, influences soil penetration, and perceives and transmits environmental signals that are critical for root branching patterns. To perform these functions, the root cap must remain relatively stable in size and must integrate endogenous developmental pathways with environmental signals, yet the mechanism is not clear. We previously showed that low pH conditions altered root cap development, and these changes are mediated by the NIN LIKE PROTEIN 7 (NLP7) transcription factor, a master regulator of nitrate signaling. Here we show that in Arabidopsis NLP7 integrates nitrate signaling with auxin pathways to regulate root cap development. We found that low nitrate conditions promote aberrant release of root cap cells. Nitrate deficiency impacts auxin pathways in the last layer of the root cap, and this is mediated in part by NLP7. Mutations in NLP7 abolish the auxin minimum in the last layer of the root cap and alter root cap expression of the auxin carriers PIN-LIKES 3 (PILS3) and PIN-FORMED 7 (PIN7) as well as transcription factors that regulate PIN expression. Together, our data reveal NLP7 as a link between endogenous auxin pathways and nitrate signaling in the root cap.
An Exploratory Thematic Analysis of Factors That Influence Sleep in Music Therapy Undergraduate Students
Authors: Muralidharan Ananya , Silverman Michael J
Published: February 2023

Sleep has an essential role in the health, wellbeing, and ability to learn of undergraduate college and university students (UCUS). Due to high credit loads, the music curriculum, and music therapy competencies, music therapy students may experience difficulties obtaining adequate sleep. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to understand factors that enable or inhibit sleep in undergraduate music therapy students. We conducted semi-structured interviews with 14 junior and senior level music therapy UCUS at public institutions in the United States. We used an inductive approach to thematic analysis to analyze data and incorporated member checking and trustworthiness to clarify and verify the results. We identified three themes (supported by seven subthemes) as factors that impacted the sleep of undergraduate music therapy students: (a) academic schedule and expected time commitment; (b) intrinsic motivation to become better student music therapists; and (c) wellness-based education and personal factors. The results of this study provide insight into the various factors that might adversely affect sleep in undergraduate music therapy students and have consequences on their health, wellbeing, and learning. Implications for students and educators, limitations of the study, and suggestions for future research are provided.
Clinical outcome of biomarker-guided therapies in adult patients with tumors of the nervous system
Authors: Renovanz Mirjam , Kurz Sylvia C , Rieger Johannes , Walter Bianca , Becker Hannes , Hille Hanni , Bombach Paula , Rieger David , Grosse Lucia , Häusser Lara , Skardelly Marco , Merk Daniel J , Paulsen Frank , Hoffmann Elgin , Gani Cihan , Neumann Manuela , Beschorner Rudi , Rieß Olaf , Roggia Cristiana , Schroeder Christopher , Ossowski Stephan , Armeanu-Ebinger Sorin , Gschwind Axel , Biskup Saskia , Schulze Martin , Fend Falko , Singer Stephan , Zender Lars , Lengerke Claudia , Brucker Sara Yvonne , Engler Tobias , Forschner Andrea , Stenzl Arnulf , Kohlbacher Oliver , Nahnsen Sven , Gabernet Gisela , Fillinger Sven , Bender Benjamin , Ernemann Ulrike , Öner Öznur , Beha Janina , Malek Holly Sundberg , Möller Yvonne , Ruhm Kristina , Tatagiba Marcos , Schittenhelm Jens , Bitzer Michael , Malek Nisar , Zips Daniel , Tabatabai Ghazaleh
Published: February 2023

Background

The clinical utility of molecular profiling and targeted therapies for neuro-oncology patients outside of clinical trials is not established. We aimed at investigating feasibility and clinical utility of molecular profiling and targeted therapy in adult patients with advanced tumors in the nervous system within a prospective observational study.

Methods

molecular tumor board (MTB)@ZPM (NCT03503149) is a prospective observational precision medicine study for patients with advanced tumors. After inclusion of patients, we performed comprehensive molecular profiling, formulated ranked biomarker-guided therapy recommendations based on consensus by the MTB, and collected prospective clinical outcome data.

Results

Here, we present initial data of 661 adult patients with tumors of the nervous system enrolled by December 31, 2021. Of these, 408 patients were presented at the MTB. Molecular-instructed therapy recommendations could be made in 380/408 (93.1%) cases and were prioritized by evidence levels. Therapies were initiated in 86/380 (22.6%) cases until data cutoff. We observed a progression-free survival ratio >1.3 in 31.3% of patients.

Conclusions

Our study supports the clinical utility of biomarker-guided therapies for neuro-oncology patients and indicates clinical benefit in a subset of patients. Our data might inform future clinical trials, translational studies, and even clinical care.
A Functional Polymorphism in IL-1B Is Associated With Immune Reconstitution Inflammatory Syndrome of Chronic Disseminated Candidiasis
Authors: Rammaert Blandine , Bochud Pierre-Yves , Brunel Anne-Sophie , Wojtowicz Agnieszka , Candon Sophie , Gallego Hernanz Maria Pilar , Lortholary Olivier
Published: February 2023

We investigated single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) possibly involved in immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome of chronic disseminated candidiasis (IRIS-CDC) through a candidate gene approach and a prospective matched-control study. We found that an SNP located in interleukin-1B at rs1143627 was significantly associated with the risk of developing IRIS-CDC.
Single-cytosine methylation at W-boxes repels binding of WRKY transcription factors through steric hindrance
Authors: Charvin Magali , Halter Thierry , Blanc-Mathieu Romain , Barraud Pierre , Aumont-Nicaise Magali , Parcy François , Navarro Lionel
Published: February 2023

DNA methylation is an epigenetic mark that fine-tunes gene expression, notably by negatively or positively regulating transcription factor (TF)-DNA binding. In plants, DNA methylation has primarily been shown to inhibit TF-DNA binding. However, little is known about the underlying mechanisms. Here, we show that DNA methylation decreases the binding of several Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) WRKY TFs to their genomic regions and their binding sites in vitro. We also provide evidence that DNA methylation at a single cytosine located in a functional core W-box motif repels DNA binding of AtWRKY40 in vitro. Using structural modelling, we further demonstrate that this cytosine interacts through van der Waals contacts with the conserved tyrosine of WRKY-DNA binding domains. Importantly, our model predicts steric hindrance when a 5-methyl group is present on this specific cytosine, thereby likely preventing tight binding of WRKY-DNA binding domains. Finally, because the WRKY motif and the residues involved in DNA contacts are conserved across Arabidopsis and rice (Oryza sativa) WRKY TFs, we propose that this methylation-dependent WRKY-DNA binding inhibitory mechanism could be widespread across plant species.
Sensing echoes: temporal misalignment in auditory brainstem responses as the earliest marker of neurodevelopmental derailment
Authors: Torres Elizabeth B , Varkey Hannah , Vero Joe , London Eric , Phan Ha , Kittler Phyllis , Gordon Anne , Delgado Rafael E , Delgado Christine F , Simpson Elizabeth A
Published: February 2023

Neurodevelopmental disorders are on the rise worldwide, with diagnoses that detect derailment from typical milestones by 3 to 4.5 years of age. By then, the circuitry in the brain has already reached some level of maturation that inevitably takes neurodevelopment through a different course. There is a critical need then to develop analytical methods that detect problems much earlier and identify targets for treatment. We integrate data from multiple sources, including neonatal auditory brainstem responses (ABR), clinical criteria detecting autism years later in those neonates, and similar ABR information for young infants and children who also received a diagnosis of autism spectrum disorders, to produce the earliest known digital screening biomarker to flag neurodevelopmental derailment in neonates. This work also defines concrete targets for treatment and offers a new statistical approach to aid in guiding a personalized course of maturation in line with the highly nonlinear, accelerated neurodevelopmental rates of change in early infancy.
The Lost Capital Asset Pricing Model
Authors: Andrei Daniel , Cujean Julien , Wilson Mungo
Published: February 2023

We provide a novel explanation for the empirical failure of the capital asset pricing model (CAPM) despite its widespread practical use. In a rational-expectations economy in which information is dispersed, variation in expected returns over time and across investors creates an informational gap between investors and the empiricist. The CAPM holds for investors, but the securities market line appears flat to the empiricist. Variation in expected returns across investors accounts for the larger part of this distortion, which is empirically substantial; it offers a new interpretation of why “betting against beta” (BAB) works: BAB really bets on true beta. The empiricist retrieves a stronger CAPM on days when public information reduces disagreement among investors.