bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Understanding Acceptability of Group Leisure Activities Used to Address Loneliness Among People Living With Dementia: An Exploratory Mixed-Methods Study
Authors: O’Rourke Hannah M. , Jeffery Nicole , Walsh Brittany , Quark Sheylenne , Sidani Souraya
Published: July 2023

This mixed-methods complementarity study explored family members’, friends’, and health care providers’ perspectives of acceptability of group leisure activities as an intervention for loneliness experienced by older adults living with dementia. A sample of 25 family members, friends, and health care providers of people living with dementia in ON rated the acceptability of group leisure activities (adapted Treatment Perception and Preference questionnaire) and discussed their ratings in an interview. Quantitative (descriptive statistics) and qualitative (conventional content analysis) results were integrated to understand acceptability. Participants viewed group leisure activities as effective, logical, and suitable for use with people living with dementia. Participants described the need for flexible programs, careful facilitation, and attention to activity selection. Group leisure activities were seen as low risk, but stigmas related to dementia could prevent participation. The findings inform the design of acceptable group leisure activities, promoting their use to address loneliness in people living with dementia.
Productive practices in Andean rural areas and their relationship to extractive markets (Atacama Desert, northern Chile, 1915–2019)
Authors: Calderón-Seguel Matías , Prieto Manuel
Published: July 2023

Extractivism has marked the history of Latin America whose operations are in rural territories inhabited mainly by indigenous populations. Mining has had a remarkable expansion in rural territories of the Andes. Critical studies of these processes have focused on the disruptive aspects and conflict between companies, local populations, and States. However, mining has also been intertwined with the territories based on contradictory relationships at different timescales. To examine this issue, we carried out a historical reconstruction of the productive practices of the Caspana community indigenous (northern Chile) and their different forms of connection with mining development. We combine diverse data sources and methodological approaches: oral histories obtained from ethnography, censuses, explorers’ records, and academic literature. We identify different types of relationships over time, according to the different forms of indigenous participation in the extractive markets and the deployment and rearrangement of diverse economic strategies by the indigenous population.
Enhanced congenital cardiac surgery knowledge with multidisciplinary collaborative education series for paediatric cardiology fellows and nurse practitioners
Authors: Lee Madonna E. , Price Joshua , Schauer Jenna , Carlozzi Lauren , Virk Kathryn , Freeman Kaitlyn , Lee Joan , Johnston Troy A. , Bhat Aarti
Published: July 2023

Introduction:

Paediatric cardiologists and nurse practitioners lack structured education tools focused on basic cardiac surgery principles. However, non-surgical specialties caring for surgical patients require this knowledge for comprehensive clinical care. We created a cardiac surgical educational curriculum focused on improving knowledge and attitudes towards communication for non-surgical trainees and advanced practice providers.

Methods:

Over one academic year, six paediatric cardiology fellows and seven paediatric cardiac surgery nurse practitioners at Seattle Children’s Hospital participated in this study. With surgical supervision, six lectures were prepared by each fellow and delivered monthly. Sessions were hybrid and recorded for later viewing. Pre- and post-intervention survey of attitudes regarding surgical topics and pre- and post- test-based knowledge assessments were administered.

Results:

Participants positively rated the usefulness of the lecture series (4.2/5) and would recommend it to a colleague (4.5/5). Self-reported confidence discussing surgical concepts with patients increased from 2.3 to 3.4 among paediatric cardiology fellows (p < 0.001) and from 2.8 to 3.9 among nurse practitioners (p < 0.001), out of 5. In both groups, knowledge assessment scores improved from 54 to 79% post-intervention (p < 0.001).

Conclusions:

After a six-part educational series taught by paediatric cardiology fellows, both paediatric cardiology fellows and paediatric cardiac surgery nurse practitioners demonstrated improved knowledge and reported increased comfort counselling families on basic cardiac surgery topics. Structured, active-learning lessons taught by fellows for non-surgical audiences can improve attitudes and build clinically relevant knowledge. Creating an effective level-appropriate multidisciplinary curriculum accessible to various types of medical providers could enhance comprehensive care of complex congenital cardiac surgery patients.
Dialogue or Confession? Ecumenical Responsibility and the War in Ukraine
Authors: Clements Keith
Published: July 2023

While the Russian invasion of Ukraine has been overwhelmingly condemned by the churches of the world, the support of the Russian Orthodox Church for the war poses difficult questions to the ecumenical community: in particular, whether that church’s support for the war and the extreme nationalist policies of President Putin constitute grounds for suspending it from the World Council of Churches (WCC) and other ecumenical bodies. The current ecumenical emphasis upon ‘dialogue’ acts as a deterrent to such action, but the WCC describes itself as a fellowship of churches that confess Christ as God and Saviour and therefore supreme over all other authorities. There are parallels with previous challenges in ecumenical history, most particularly 1930s Germany and the stand of the Confessing Church. While dialogue has its own importance the prime ecumenical commitment in conflict situations is to confess Christ, whatever the risks of division that this incurs.
Estimating the Net Magnetic Moment of Geological Samples From Planar Field Maps Using Multipoles
Authors: Lima Eduardo A. , Weiss Benjamin P. , Borlina Caue S. , Baratchart Laurent , Hardin Douglas P.
Published: July 2023

Recent advances in magnetic microscopy have enabled studies of geological samples whose weak and spatially nonuniform magnetizations were previously inaccessible to standard magnetometry techniques. A quantity of central importance is the net magnetic moment, which reflects the mean direction and the intensity of the magnetization states of numerous ferromagnetic crystals within a certain volume. The planar arrangement of typical magnetic microscopy measurements, which originates from measuring the field immediately above the polished surface of a sample to maximize sensitivity and spatial resolution, makes estimating net moments considerably more challenging than with spherically distributed data. In particular, spatially extended and nonuniform magnetization distributions often cannot be adequately approximated by a single magnetic dipole. To address this limitation, we developed a multipole fitting technique that can accurately estimate net moment using spherical harmonic multipole expansions computed from planar data. Given that the optimal location for the origin of such expansions is unknown beforehand and generally unconstrained, regularization of this inverse problem is critical for obtaining accurate moment estimates from noisy experimental magnetic data. We characterized the performance of the technique using synthetic sources under different conditions (noiseless data, data corrupted with simulated white noise, and data corrupted with measured instrument noise). We then validated and demonstrated the technique using superconducting quantum interference device microscopy measurements of impact melt spherules from Lonar crater, India and dusty olivine chondrules from the CO chondrite meteorite Dominion Range 08006.
Separating Hydraulic Fracturing Microseismicity From Induced Seismicity by Bayesian Inference of Non‐Linear Pressure Diffusivity
Authors: McKean S. H. , Priest J. A. , Dettmer J. , Fradelizio G. , Eaton D.
Published: July 2023

Microseismic data acquired during hydraulic stimulations is routinely used to characterize hydraulic fracture (HF) propagation away from a wellbore. When the data include induced seismicity (IS) related to induced fault slip, separating HF‐related and IS‐related events is essential for HF treatment optimization and IS mitigation. Linear and non‐linear analytical diffusivity models can be used to interpret microseismic data and quantify the propagation of HFs, but their accuracy reduces when significant induced microseismicity is present. A Bayesian quantile regression is used to extend these existing diffusivity models to data contaminated with IS. A plausible ellipsoid filters events that are clearly anomalous prior to the quantile regression. The regression effectively separates HF‐related microseismic events from induced events in a case study for all stages without interpretative bias. This reveals faults that are directed connected to HFs, as well as those solely related with induced seismicity.
Aline Ghilardi: Fighting Against Colonialism and Sexism in Paleontology
Authors: Rodrigues Meghie
Published: July 2023

The Brazilian scientist is one of the leading voices in the movement to bring a rare fossil back to Brazil.
The Career Issue: A Path for Everyone
Authors:   The Editors
Published: July 2023

There are as many career journeys in the geosciences as there are people wandering through the field. Read about how 14 scientists found their way.
Towards Inverse Modeling of Landscapes Using the Wasserstein Distance
Authors: Morris M. J. , Lipp A. G. , Roberts G. G.
Published: July 2023

Extricating histories of uplift and erosion from landscapes is crucial for many branches of the Earth sciences. An objective way to calculate such histories is to identify calibrated models that minimize misfit between observations (e.g., topography) and predictions (e.g., synthetic landscapes). In the presence of natural or computational noise, widely used Euclidean measures of similarity can have complicated objective functions, obscuring the search for optimal models. Instead, we introduce the Wasserstein distance as a means to measure misfit between observed and theoretical landscapes. Our results come in two parts. First, we show that this approach can generate much smoother objective functions than Euclidean measures, simplifying the search for optimal models. Second, we show how locations and amplitudes of uplift can be accurately recovered from synthetic landscapes even when seeded with different noisy initial conditions. We suggest that this approach holds promise for inverting real landscapes for their histories.
A Region‐Optional Targeted Observation Method and Its Application in the Sea Surface Temperature Prediction Associated With the Indian Ocean Dipole
Authors: Li Xiaojing , Tang Youmin , Shen Zheqi , Zhou Feng , Song Xunshu , Wu Yanling , Li Yi
Published: July 2023

Although data assimilation‐based targeted observation approaches have been widely used, obtaining optimal observation sites over a specific region for a prediction target remains a challenge. Hence, this study developed a more practical region‐optional targeted observation method by introducing a projection vector, allowing for the prediction targeted region to be different from the observation one. By minimizing the analysis error variance in a targeted region, the method identified optimal sites through a sequential assimilation framework. This region‐optional method was applied in the targeted observation study of the sea surface temperature (SST) prediction associated with Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD). The first 10 optimal observation sites were identified, with seven sites in the west IO, and three in the east. The results were further validated by conducting observation system simulation experiments using an ensemble adjustment Kalman filter assimilation system in the Community Earth System Model (CESM). The assimilation of observations from the 10 optimal sites was capable of reducing root mean squared errors (RMSEs) by 38.2% when assessing the SST across the IOD key regions, significantly more than the reduction from 10 optimal sites identified via the conventional method, or that from 10 random sites. This improvement was primarily due to the error reduction in the eastern IO, where SST RMSEs were reduced by >50%. The proposed region‐optional targeted observation method can seek optimal sites in any region of interest and is not confined to the targeted region as in conventional algorithms, thus providing a more reasonable method for designing optimal observation networks.
Role of the Thermodynamic Structure of the Inner Core in Predicting the Intensification of Hurricane Patricia (2015)
Authors: Zhong Quanjia , Lu Xu , Wang Xuguang , Ding Ruiqiang , Duan Wansuo , Hou Zhaolu
Published: July 2023

We use short‐range ensemble forecasts and ensemble clustering analysis to study the factors affecting the intensification of Hurricane Patricia (2015). Convection‐permitting ensemble forecasts are classified into two groups: 10 spin‐down (SPD) members and 10 spin‐up (SPU) members with intensification rates of <0 and >0 m s−1 for the first 6 hr, respectively. Ensemble clustering analysis found that the wind–pressure relationship was incorrect in the SPD group, indicating that the SPD issue may be partly caused by an imbalance in the initial minimum sea‐level pressure (MSLP) and the maximum wind speed (MWS). The SPD issue appears to be related to three main points: (a) a weaker upper‐level warm core; (b) a drier inner core at low levels; and (c) a dry, cold air intrusion at mid‐levels. In contrast, the SPU group has a stronger upper‐level warm core and a relatively wet inner core at lower levels, as well as a relatively strong secondary circulation. These favorable initial conditions in the SPU group, combined with a greater updraft and stronger convection around the eyewall, result in more latent heating around or in the eyewall that favors the intensification of the tropical cyclone. Comparisons between the SPD and SPU groups suggest that the analyzed ensemble could not accurately capture the relationship between the initial MSLP and MWS, which, combined with the unfavorable thermodynamic conditions at the initial time, resulted in the incorrect evolution of the intensity. Therefore, improving the initial conditions appears to be an effective way to address the SPD issue.
TIGIT, a novel immune checkpoint therapy for melanoma
Authors: Tang Wei , Chen Jun , Ji Tianlong , Cong Xiufeng
Published: July 2023

Melanoma is the most aggressive and deadliest type of skin cancer. In the last 10 years, immune checkpoint blockades (ICBs) including PD-1/PD-L1 and CTLA-4 inhibitor has been shown to be effective against melanoma. PD-1/PD-L1 and CTLA-4 inhibitors have shown varying degrees of drug resistance in the treatment of melanoma patients. Furthermore, the clinical benefits of ICBs are also accompanied by severe immune toxicity. Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop new immune checkpoint inhibitors to optimize melanoma therapy and reduce cytotoxicity. T-cell immunoreceptor with immunoglobulin and immunoreceptor tyrosine-based inhibition motif domain (TIGIT) is thought to activate inhibitory receptors in T cells, natural killer (NK) cells, and regulatory T cells (Tregs), and has become a promising target for immunotherapy. Studies have found that TIGIT can be detected in different stages of melanoma, which is closely related to the occurrence, development, and prognosis of melanoma. This review mainly describes the immunosuppressive mechanism of TIGIT and its role in antitumor immunity of melanoma, so as to provide new ideas and schemes for the clinical treatment of melanoma with targeted TIGIT.
Macrophage and neutrophil heterogeneity at single-cell spatial resolution in human inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Garrido-Trigo Alba , Corraliza Ana M. , Veny Marisol , Dotti Isabella , Melón-Ardanaz Elisa , Rill Aina , Crowell Helena L. , Corbí Ángel , Gudiño Victoria , Esteller Miriam , Álvarez-Teubel Iris , Aguilar Daniel , Masamunt M. Carme , Killingbeck Emily , Kim Youngmi , Leon Michael , Visvanathan Sudha , Marchese Domenica , Caratù Ginevra , Martin-Cardona Albert , Esteve Maria , Ordás Ingrid , Panés Julian , Ricart Elena , Mereu Elisabetta , Heyn Holger , Salas Azucena
Published: July 2023

Ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease are chronic inflammatory intestinal diseases with perplexing heterogeneity in disease manifestation and response to treatment. While the molecular basis for this heterogeneity remains uncharacterized, single-cell technologies allow us to explore the transcriptional states within tissues at an unprecedented resolution which could further understanding of these complex diseases. Here, we apply single-cell RNA-sequencing to human inflamed intestine and show that the largest differences among patients are present within the myeloid compartment including macrophages and neutrophils. Using spatial transcriptomics in human tissue at single-cell resolution (CosMx Spatial Molecular Imaging) we spatially localize each of the macrophage and neutrophil subsets identified by single-cell RNA-sequencing and unravel further macrophage diversity based on their tissue localization. Finally, single-cell RNA-sequencing combined with single-cell spatial analysis reveals a strong communication network involving macrophages and inflammatory fibroblasts. Our data sheds light on the cellular complexity of these diseases and points towards the myeloid and stromal compartments as important cellular subsets for understanding patient-to-patient heterogeneity.
Spatial lipidomics reveals brain region-specific changes of sulfatides in an experimental MPTP Parkinson’s disease primate model
Authors: Kaya Ibrahim , Nilsson Anna , Luptáková Dominika , He Yachao , Vallianatou Theodosia , Bjärterot Patrik , Svenningsson Per , Bezard Erwan , Andrén Per E.
Published: July 2023

Metabolism of MPTP (1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine) to the neurotoxin MPP+ in the brain causes permanent Parkinson’s disease-like symptoms by destroying dopaminergic neurons in the pars compacta of the substantia nigra in humans and non-human primates. However, the complete molecular pathology underlying MPTP-induced parkinsonism remains poorly understood. We used dual polarity matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry imaging to thoroughly image numerous glycerophospholipids and sphingolipids in coronal brain tissue sections of MPTP-lesioned and control non-human primate brains (Macaca mulatta). The results revealed specific distributions of several sulfatide lipid molecules based on chain-length, number of double bonds, and importantly, hydroxylation stage. More specifically, certain long-chain hydroxylated sulfatides with polyunsaturated chains in the molecular structure were depleted within motor-related brain regions in the MPTP-lesioned animals, e.g., external and internal segments of globus pallidus and substantia nigra pars reticulata. In contrast, certain long-chain non-hydroxylated sulfatides were found to be elevated within the same brain regions. These findings demonstrate region-specific dysregulation of sulfatide metabolism within the MPTP-lesioned macaque brain. The depletion of long-chain hydroxylated sulfatides in the MPTP-induced pathology indicates oxidative stress and oligodendrocyte/myelin damage within the pathologically relevant brain regions. Hence, the presented findings improve our current understanding of the molecular pathology of MPTP-induced parkinsonism within primate brains, and provide a basis for further research regarding the role of dysregulated sulfatide metabolism in PD.
Rift-induced disruption of cratonic keels drives kimberlite volcanism
Authors: Gernon Thomas M. , Jones Stephen M. , Brune Sascha , Hincks Thea K. , Palmer Martin R. , Schumacher John C. , Primiceri Rebecca M. , Field Matthew , Griffin William L. , O’Reilly Suzanne Y. , Keir Derek , Spencer Christopher J. , Merdith Andrew S. , Glerum Anne
Published: July 2023

Kimberlites are volatile-rich, occasionally diamond-bearing magmas that have erupted explosively at Earth’s surface in the geologic past1–3. These enigmatic magmas, originating from depths exceeding 150 km in Earth’s mantle1, occur in stable cratons and in pulses broadly synchronous with supercontinent cyclicity4. Whether their mobilization is driven by mantle plumes5 or by mechanical weakening of cratonic lithosphere4,6 remains unclear. Here we show that most kimberlites spanning the past billion years erupted about 30 million years (Myr) after continental breakup, suggesting an association with rifting processes. Our dynamical and analytical models show that physically steep lithosphere–asthenosphere boundaries (LABs) formed during rifting generate convective instabilities in the asthenosphere that slowly migrate many hundreds to thousands of kilometres inboard of rift zones. These instabilities endure many tens of millions of years after continental breakup and destabilize the basal tens of kilometres of the cratonic lithosphere, or keel. Displaced keel is replaced by a hot, upwelling mixture of asthenosphere and recycled volatile-rich keel in the return flow, causing decompressional partial melting. Our calculations show that this process can generate small-volume, low-degree, volatile-rich melts, closely matching the characteristics expected of kimberlites1–3. Together, these results provide a quantitative and mechanistic link between kimberlite episodicity and supercontinent cycles through progressive disruption of cratonic keels.
Increased occurrences of consecutive La Niña events under global warming
Authors: Geng Tao , Jia Fan , Cai Wenju , Wu Lixin , Gan Bolan , Jing Zhao , Li Shujun , McPhaden Michael J.
Published: July 2023

Most El Niño events occur sporadically and peak in a single winter1–3, whereas La Niña tends to develop after an El Niño and last for two years or longer4–7. Relative to single-year La Niña, consecutive La Niña features meridionally broader easterly winds and hence a slower heat recharge of the equatorial Pacific6,7, enabling the cold anomalies to persist, exerting prolonged impacts on global climate, ecosystems and agriculture8–13. Future changes to multi-year-long La Niña events remain unknown. Here, using climate models under future greenhouse-gas forcings14, we find an increased frequency of consecutive La Niña ranging from 19 ± 11% in a low-emission scenario to 33 ± 13% in a high-emission scenario, supported by an inter-model consensus stronger in higher-emission scenarios. Under greenhouse warming, a mean-state warming maximum in the subtropical northeastern Pacific enhances the regional thermodynamic response to perturbations, generating anomalous easterlies that are further northward than in the twentieth century in response to El Niño warm anomalies. The sensitivity of the northward-broadened anomaly pattern is further increased by a warming maximum in the equatorial eastern Pacific. The slower heat recharge associated with the northward-broadened easterly anomalies facilitates the cold anomalies of the first-year La Niña to persist into a second-year La Niña. Thus, climate extremes as seen during historical consecutive La Niña episodes probably occur more frequently in the twenty-first century.
Lung adenocarcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma difficult for immunohistochemical diagnosis can be distinguished by lipid profile
Authors: Yamashita Takashi , Takanashi Yusuke , Uebayashi Asuka , Oka Mikako , Mizuno Kiyomichi , Kawase Akikazu , Oyama Soho , Kitamoto Takuya , Kondo Minako , Omori Shiho , Tao Hong , Takahashi Yutaka , Sakamoto Takumi , Kahyo Tomoaki , Sugimura Haruhiko , Setou Mitsutoshi , Shiiya Norihiko , Funai Kazuhito
Published: July 2023

In patients with unresectable non-small cell lung cancer, histological diagnosis is frequently based on small biopsy specimens unsuitable for histological diagnosis when they are severely crushed and do not retain their morphology. Therefore, establishing a novel diagnostic method independent of tissue morphology or conventional immunohistochemistry (IHC) markers is required. We analyzed the lipid profiles of resected primary lung adenocarcinoma (ADC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SQCC) specimens using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. The specimens of 26 ADC and 18 SQCC cases were evenly assigned to the discovery and validation cohorts. Non-target screening on the discovery cohort identified 96 and 13 lipid peaks abundant in ADC and SQCC, respectively. Among these 109 lipid peaks, six and six lipid peaks in ADC and SQCC showed reproducibility in target screening on the validation cohort. Finally, we selected three and four positive lipid markers for ADC and SQCC, demonstrating high discrimination abilities. In cases difficult to diagnose by IHC staining, [cardiolipin(18:2_18:2_18:2_18:2)-H]− and [triglyceride(18:1_17:1_18:1) + NH4]+ showed the excellent diagnostic ability for ADC (sensitivity: 1.00, specificity: 0.89, accuracy: 0.93) and SQCC (sensitivity: 0.89, specificity: 0.83, accuracy: 0.87), respectively. These novel candidate lipid markers may contribute to a more accurate diagnosis and subsequent treatment strategy for unresectable NSCLC.
Mobility constraints in segregation models
Authors: Gambetta Daniele , Mauro Giovanni , Pappalardo Luca
Published: July 2023

Since the development of the original Schelling model of urban segregation, several enhancements have been proposed, but none have considered the impact of mobility constraints on model dynamics. Recent studies have shown that human mobility follows specific patterns, such as a preference for short distances and dense locations. This paper proposes a segregation model incorporating mobility constraints to make agents select their location based on distance and location relevance. Our findings indicate that the mobility-constrained model produces lower segregation levels but takes longer to converge than the original Schelling model. We identified a few persistently unhappy agents from the minority group who cause this prolonged convergence time and lower segregation level as they move around the grid centre. Our study presents a more realistic representation of how agents move in urban areas and provides a novel and insightful approach to analyzing the impact of mobility constraints on segregation models. We highlight the significance of incorporating mobility constraints when policymakers design interventions to address urban segregation.
Flow signatures and catchment’s attributes for HCA clustering in a hydrologic similarity assessment (Tunisian case)
Authors: Chérif Rim , Gargouri-Ellouze Emna
Published: July 2023

Partitioning methods such as cluster analysis are advantageous in pooling catchments into hydrometric similar regions. They help overcome data shortage in ungauged catchments, which is a common problem in Sud Mediterranean zones. Without accurate forecasts, it is difficult to assess and manage water resources efficiently this situation won't be of any assistance to hydrology decision-makers. This paper illustrates a Tunisian application case, that aims to pool catchments with a hierarchical clustering algorithm (HCA) based on distances calculated in multidimensional physiographical and hydrometric space. The homogeneity of generated clusters is checked by the silhouette index. Then the distances efficiencies are compared. Nineteen semi-arid Tunisian catchments monitored since 1992 are studied. Twelve physiographical attributes, nine rainfall and streamflow signatures are considered in the HCA with two clusters. Correlation distance provides the most homogeneous clusters. Statistically the: percentage of area affected by anti-erosive practices, percentage of forest cover and catchment area are the most discriminating attributes. However, hydrometrical signatures appear to be irrelevant. These partitions highlight two different hydrological behaviors that must support forecasting. Results are promising in the Sud-Mediterranean case, where the shortage of hydrometrical data is an ongoing problem. They have the advantage of enabling hydrologic forecasting without requiring heavy information.
Mechanical behavior and reloading reinforcement characteristics of fractured coal under low confining pressure
Authors: Yang Ying-ming , Gu Xue-bin , Liu Xin-jie , Lu Bai , Ding Xiao-jun , Zhao Yong-qiang , Zhang Wei-long , Liu Gang
Published: July 2023

To study the basic mechanical behavior and the reloading reinforcement characteristics of fractured coal, conventional triaxial loading tests with different fissure angle were first carried out. On this basis, conventional triaxial loading and unloading tests were conducted to investigate the reloading reinforcement characteristics of fractured coal. The results reveal that when the fissure angle was small, the stress–strain curve exhibited the multi-peak phenomena. As the fissure angle increased, the stress drop phenomenon in the peak region was weakened. With the increase of the fissure angle, the peak stress of the specimens increased and then decreased, while the elastic modulus showed an overall increasing trend, demonstrating the controlling effect of the crack angle. Meanwhile, the cyclic loading exhibited a certain enhancement effect on the strength of the fractured coals when the specimens was unloaded near the crack closure stress. The findings can provide a better understanding of the failure mechanism and reloading reinforcement characteristics of fractured coal.
A valuable subarachnoid space named the occipito-atlantal cistern
Authors: Li Yun-Fei , Wei Rui-Xue , Yang Kai-Qi , Hack Gary D. , Chi Yan-Yan , Tang Wei , Sui Xue-Jun , Zhang Meng-Liang , Sui Hong-Jin , Yu Sheng-Bo
Published: July 2023

The cisterna magna has been defined as the space between the inferior margin of the cerebellar vermis to the level of the foramen magnum, while an enlarged dorsal subarachnoid space at the occipito-cervical junction extending from the foramen magnum to the upper border of the axis (C2) is still ignored. Recently, the myodural bridge complex is proved to drive the cerebral spinal fluid flowing via this region, we therefore introduce the “occipito-atlantal cistern (OAC)” to better describe the subarachnoid space and provide a detailed rationale. The present study utilized several methods, including MRI, gross anatomical dissection, P45 sheet plastination, and three-dimensional visualization. OAC was observed to be an enlarge subarachnoid space, extending from the foramen magnum to the level of the C2. In the median sagittal plane, OAC was a funnel shape and its anteroposterior dimensions were 15.92 ± 4.20 mm at the level of the C0, 4.49 ± 1.25 mm at the level of the posterior arch of the C1, and 2.88 ± 0.77 mm at the level of the arch of the C2, respectively. In the median sagittal plane, the spino-dural angle of the OAC was calculated to be 35.10 ± 6.91°, and the area of OAC was calculated to be 232.28 ± 71.02 mm2. The present study provides OAC is a subarachnoid space independent from the cisterna magna. Because of its distinctive anatomy, as well as theoretical and clinical significance, OAC deserves its own name.
Geographic population structure of the honeybee microsporidian parasite Vairimorpha (Nosema) ceranae in the South West Indian Ocean
Authors: Blot Nicolas , Clémencet Johanna , Jourda Cyril , Lefeuvre Pierre , Warrit Natapot , Esnault Olivier , Delatte Hélène
Published: July 2023

The microsporidian Vairimorpha (Nosema) ceranae is one of the most common parasites of the honeybee. A single honeybee carries many parasites and therefore multiple alleles of V. ceranae genes that seem to be ubiquitous. As a consequence, nucleotide diversity analyses have not allowed discriminating genetic structure of parasite populations. We performed deep loci-targeted sequencing to monitor the haplotype frequencies of genome markers in isolates from discontinuous territories, namely the tropical islands of the South West Indian Ocean. The haplotype frequency distribution corroborated the suspected tetraploidy of the parasite. Most major haplotypes were ubiquitous in the area but with variable frequency. While oceanic isolates differed from European and Asian outgroups, parasite populations from distinct archipelagoes also differed in their haplotype distribution. Interestingly an original and very divergent Malagasy isolate was detected. The observed population structure allowed formulating hypotheses upon the natural history of V. ceranae in this oceanic area. We also discussed the usefulness of allelic distribution assessment, using multiple informative loci or genome-wide analyses, when parasite population is not clonal within a single host.
Escherichia coli resistance, treatment patterns and clinical outcomes among females with uUTI in Germany: a retrospective physician-based chart review study
Authors: Naber Kurt G. , Wagenlehner Florian , Kresken Michael , Cheng Wendy Y. , Catillon Maryaline , Duh Mei Sheng , Yu Louise , Khanal Anamika , Mulgirigama Aruni , Joshi Ashish V. , Ju Shinyoung , Mitrani-Gold Fanny S.
Published: July 2023

Real-world data were collected to examine antimicrobial resistance (AMR) prevalence, treatment patterns, and clinical outcomes among female patients with uncomplicated urinary tract infection (uUTI) in Germany. Data were from a retrospective physician-based chart review completed by physicians treating patients with uUTI. Non-pregnant women aged ≥ 12 years, with a uUTI diagnosis, an E. coli-positive urine culture between January 2017–December 2019, and susceptibility test results for ≥ 4 drug classes were eligible. Patients were stratified into three cohorts by drug class susceptibility: susceptible to all (SUS), resistant to one or two drug classes (DR1/2), and resistant to ≥ 3 (MDR) drug classes tested. Among 386 eligible patients [SUS (67.1%); DR1/2 (29.0%); MDR (3.9%)], AMR prevalence was highest for FMIs (18.3%) and lowest for fluoroquinolones (5.2%). The most prescribed drugs were fosfomycin in SUS (44.0%), DR1/2 (41.4%), and fluoroquinolones in MDR (40.0%). Treatment for uUTI failed for 8.8% of patients; failure was more likely in MDR versus SUS [adjusted odds ratio [95% CI] = 4.21 [1.14–1.50]; P = 0.031); incidence of recurrent infection in the 6-months post-index period was higher in DR1/2 versus SUS. These findings may have implications for empiric prescribing, suggesting an unmet need for new treatments.
Quantifying Antarctic krill connectivity across the West Antarctic Peninsula and its role in large-scale Pygoscelis penguin population dynamics
Authors: Gallagher Katherine L. , Dinniman Michael S. , Lynch Heather J.
Published: July 2023

Antarctic krill (Euphausia superba) are considered a keystone species for higher trophic level predators along the West Antarctic Peninsula (WAP) during the austral summer. The connectivity of krill may play a critical role in predator biogeography, especially for central-place foragers such as the Pygoscelis spp. penguins that breed along the WAP during the austral summer. Antarctic krill are also heavily fished commercially; therefore, understanding population connectivity of krill is critical to effective management. Here, we used a physical ocean model to examine adult krill connectivity in this region using simulated krill with realistic diel vertical migration behaviors across four austral summers. Our results indicate that krill north and south of Low Island and the southern Bransfield Strait are nearly isolated from each other and that persistent current features play a role in this lack of inter-region connectivity. Transit and entrainment times were not correlated with penguin populations at the large spatial scales examined. However, long transit times and reduced entrainment correlate spatially with the areas where krill fishing is most intense, which heightens the risk that krill fishing may lead to limited krill availability for predators.
Omnidirectional compliance on cross-linked actuator coordination enables simultaneous multi-functions of soft modular robots
Authors: Fang Zhonggui , Wu Yige , Su Yinyin , Yi Juan , Liu Sicong , Wang Zheng
Published: July 2023

Earthworms have entirely soft bodies mainly composed of circular and longitudinal muscle bundles but can handle the complexity of unstructured environments with exceptional multifunctionality. Soft robots are naturally appropriate for mimicking soft animal structures thanks to their inherent compliance. Here, we explore the new possibility of using this compliance to coordinate the actuation movements of single-type soft actuators for not only high adaptability but the simultaneous multifunctionality of soft robots. A cross-linked actuator coordination mechanism is proposed and explained with a novel conceptual design of a cross-linked network, characterization of modular coordinated kinematics, and a modular control strategy for multiple functions. We model and analyze the motion patterns for these functions, including grabbing, manipulation, and locomotion. This further enables the combination of simultaneous multi-functions with this very simple actuator network structure. In this way, a soft modular robot is developed with demonstrations of a novel continuous-transportation mode, for which multiple objects could be simultaneously transported in unstructured environments with either mobile manipulation or pick-and-place operation. A comprehensive workflow is presented to elaborate the cross-linked actuator coordination concept, analytical modeling, modular control strategy, experimental validation, and multi-functional applications. Our understanding of actuator coordination inspires new soft robotic designs for wider robotic applications.
Geometric and physical interpretation of the action principle
Authors: Carcassi Gabriele , Aidala Christine A.
Published: July 2023

We give a geometric interpretation for the principle of stationary action in classical Lagrangian particle mechanics. In a nutshell, the difference of the action along a path and its variation effectively “counts” the possible evolutions that “go through” the area enclosed. If the path corresponds to a possible evolution, all neighbouring evolutions will be parallel, making them tangent to the area enclosed by the path and its variation, thus yielding a stationary action. This treatment gives a full physical account of the geometry of both Hamiltonian and Lagrangian mechanics which is founded on three assumptions: determinism and reversible evolution, independence of the degrees of freedom and equivalence between kinematics and dynamics. The logical equivalence between the three assumptions and the principle of stationary action leads to a much cleaner conceptual understanding.
Based on network pharmacology, gastrodin attenuates hypertension-induced vascular smooth muscle cell proliferation and PI3K/AKT pathway activation
Authors: Shen Aling , Wu Meizhu , Ali Farman , Guo Zhi , Fang Yi , Zhou Yuting , Zhang Siyu , Zhang Wenqiang , Wen Ying , Yu Min , Peng Jun , Chen Keji
Published: July 2023

The effects and underlying mechanisms of gastrodin treatment on hypertensive vascular dysfunction and proliferation of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) were determined in vitro and in vivo. Using a pharmacological target network interaction analysis, 151 common targets and a PPI network were identified containing the top 10 hub genes. Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes (KEGG) analysis identified the PI3K/AKT pathway as a significantly enriched pathway. Both spontaneous hypertensive rats (SHRs) and Wistar Kyoto rats were used to assess the therapeutic effects of gastrodin on hypertension. Gastrodin treatment of the SHRs resulted in a marked attenuation of elevated blood pressure, pulse wave velocity, and pathological changes in the abdominal aorta. Moreover, gastrodin treatment significantly inhibited cell growth and downregulated the expression of PCNA as well as the p-PI3K/PI3K and p-AKT/AKT levels in angiotensin II-stimulated VSMCs. Taken together, gastrodin treatment attenuates blood pressure elevation, vascular dysfunction, and proliferation of VSMCs and inhibits the activation of the PI3K/AKT pathway.
Sericin coated thin polymeric films reduce keratinocyte proliferation via the mTOR pathway and epidermal inflammation through IL17 signaling in psoriasis rat model
Authors: Aramwit Pornanong , Fongsodsri Kamonpan , Tuentam Khwanchanok , Reamtong Onrapak , Thiangtrongjit Tipparat , Kanjanapruthipong Tapanee , Yadavalli Vamsi K. , Ampawong Sumate
Published: July 2023

Therapeutic treatment forms can play significant roles in resolving psoriatic plaques or promoting wound repair in psoriatic skin. Considering the biocompatibility, mechanical strength, flexibility, and adhesive properties of silk fibroin sheets/films, it is useful to combine them with anti-psoriatic agents and healing stimulants, notably silk sericin. Here, we evaluate the curative properties of sericin-coated thin polymeric films (ScF) fabricated from silk fibroin, using an imiquimod-induced psoriasis rat model. The film biocompatibility and psoriatic wound improvement capacity was assessed. A proteomics study was performed to understand the disease resolving mechanisms. Skin-implantation study exhibited the non-irritation property of ScF films, which alleviate eczema histopathology. Immunohistochemical and gene expression revealed the depletion of β-defensin, caspase-3 and -9, TNF-α, CCL-20, IL-1β, IL-17, TGF-β, and Wnt expressions and S100a14 mRNA level. The proteomics study suggested that ScF diminish keratinocyte proliferation via the mTOR pathway by downregulating mTOR protein, corresponding to the modulation of TNF-α, Wnt, and IL-1β levels, leading to the enhancement of anti-inflammatory environment by IL-17 downregulation. Hematology data demonstrated the safety of using these biomaterials, which provide a potential therapeutic-option for psoriasis treatment due to desirable effects, especially anti-proliferation and anti-inflammation, functioning via the mTOR pathway and control of IL-17 signaling.
Formulating a novel drilling mud using bio-polymers, nanoparticles, and SDS and investigating its rheological behavior, interfacial tension, and formation damage
Authors: Taghdimi Ramin , Kaffashi Babak , Rasaei Mohammad Reza , Dabiri Mohammad-Saber , Hemmati-Sarapardeh Abdolhossein
Published: July 2023

Formation damage is a well-known problem that occurs during the exploration and production phases of the upstream sector of the oil and gas industry. This study aimed to develop a new drilling mud formulation by utilizing eco-friendly bio-polymers, specifically Carboxymethyl Cellulose (CMC), along with nanostructured materials and a common surfactant, sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS). The rheological properties of the drilling fluid and the impact of additives on its properties were investigated at the micromodel scale, using a flow rate of 20 mL/h. The polymer concentration and nano clay concentration were set at two levels: 0.5 wt% and 1 wt%, respectively, while the surfactant content was varied at three levels: 0.1 wt%, 0.4 wt%, and 0.8 wt%. The results of the interfacial tension (IFT) analysis demonstrated a significant decrease in the interfacial tension between oil and water with the increasing concentration of SDS. Furthermore, following the API standard, the rheological behavior of the drilling fluid, including the gel strength and thixotropic properties of the mud, was evaluated with respect to temperature changes, as this is crucial for ensuring the inherent rheological stability of the mud. The rheological analysis indicated that the viscosity of the mud formulation with nanoparticles experienced a reduction of up to 10 times with increasing shear rate, while other formulations exhibited a decline of 100 times. Notably, the rheological properties of the Agar specimen improved at 150 °F due to its complete solubility in water, whereas other formulations exhibited a greater drop in viscosity at this temperature. As the temperature increased, drilling fluid containing nanostructured materials exhibited higher viscosity.
Generation of rat offspring using spermatids produced through in vitro spermatogenesis
Authors: Matsumura Takafumi , Katagiri Kumiko , Yao Tatsuma , Ishikawa-Yamauchi Yu , Nagata Shino , Hashimoto Kiyoshi , Sato Takuya , Kimura Hiroshi , Shinohara Takashi , Sanbo Makoto , Hirabayashi Masumi , Ogawa Takehiko
Published: July 2023

An in vitro spermatogenesis method using mouse testicular tissue to produce fertile sperm was established more than a decade ago. Although this culture method has generally not been effective in other animal species, we recently succeeded in improving the culture condition to induce spermatogenesis of rats up to the round spermatid stage. In the present study, we introduced acrosin-EGFP transgenic rats in order to clearly monitor the production of haploid cells during spermatogenesis in vitro. In addition, a metabolomic analysis of the culture media during cultivation revealed the metabolic dynamics of the testis tissue. By modifying the culture media based on these results, we were able to induce rat spermatogenesis repeatedly up to haploid cell production, including the formation of elongating spermatids, which was confirmed histologically and immunohistochemically. Finally, we performed a microinsemination experiment with in vitro produced spermatids, which resulted in the production of healthy and fertile offspring. This is the first demonstration of the in vitro production of functional haploid cells that yielded offspring in animals other than mice. These results are expected to provide a basis for the development of an in vitro spermatogenesis system applicable to many other mammals.
Comparative study of TiO2–Fe3O4 photocatalysts synthesized by conventional and microwave methods for metronidazole removal
Authors: Kubiak Adam
Published: July 2023

This study focused on a direct comparison of conventional hydrothermal and microwave treatment during the synthesis of TiO2–Fe3O4photocatalyst, which is an effective catalyst for decomposing metronidazole. The photocatalyst underwent various characterization analyses, including X-ray diffraction, Raman spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray, and diffuse reflectance spectroscopy. The Raman spectroscopy analysis revealed that the materials obtained through the conventional hydrothermal treatment consisted of separate phases of anatase and magnetite. On the other hand, the materials synthesized using the microwave process showed a noticeable shift in the Egband (143 cm−1) and its half-width towards higher wavenumbers. This shift is likely due to the introduction of Fe ions into the TiO2lattice. Additionally, both conventional hydrothermal and microwave synthesis routes produced TiO2–Fe3O4systems with superparamagnetic properties, as demonstrated by SQUID magnetic measurements. The TEM analysis revealed that the materials synthesized using the microwave process exhibited higher homogeneity, with no noticeable large aggregates observed. Finally, this work proposed a convenient LED photoreactor that effectively utilized the photo-oxidative properties of TiO2–Fe3O4photocatalysts to remove metronidazole. Combining photoactive TiO2–Fe3O4catalysts with an energy-efficient LED reactor resulted in a low electrical energy per order (EEO).