bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimizing the combined soft tissue repair and osteogenesis using double surfaces of crosslinked collagen scaffolds
Authors: Zhang Zhengchuan , He Qifen , Zhu Jinhao , Lin Xiaoxuan , Yang Yang , Chen Hongcheng , Huang Xiaoqiong , Xu Ruogu , Deng Feilong
Published: February 2023

Excessive tissue damage or loss has been solved by guided tissue regeneration and guided bone regeneration theories. However, the unfavorable degradation property of the resorbable collagen scaffold brings a big challenge to support soft tissue stabilization and time‐consuming osteogenesis. The combined effect for soft tissue and bone of the collagen scaffold with better degradation pattern has not been clearly proven. This study determined whether the double surfaces of crosslinked collagen scaffolds could optimize the combined soft tissue repair and osteogenesis. In this study, we applied the chemically crosslinking treatment to the commercially available collagen scaffolds. Surface characterization, mechanical property and cell proliferation in vitro were evaluated. Combined bilateral skin and bone defects were established with the smooth surface of scaffold facing the skin defect and the rough surface facing the bone defect on the calvaria of rat. Micro‐CT and histological evaluation were applied to determine the scaffold degradation pattern, soft tissue repair and osteogenesis. The crosslinked collagen scaffolds showed comparably favorable surface porosity, structure intactness, superhydrophilicity and mechanical properties. Compared to the native scaffolds, the crosslinked scaffolds could optimize the combined soft tissue repair and osteogenesis by preferably prolonged degradation time. Early pro‐angiogenesis facilitated soft tissue repair and osteogenesis by upregulated soft tissue matrix degradation and balanced pro‐osteogenesis with limited osteoclast‐mediated bone resorption. Taken together, this study offers a promising repair strategy for the combined soft tissue and bone defects. Further, the possible mechanism of controllable scaffold degradation should be conducted.
In vitro elution characteristics of antibiotic‐loaded polymethylmethacrylate cement and a calcium sulfate bone substitute using staphylococci isolated from orthopedic implant‐associated infections
Authors: Batista Campos Laura , Kurihara Mariana Neri Lucas , Santos Ingrid Nayara Marcelino , dos Reis Fernando Baldy , Salles Mauro José
Published: February 2023

Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) remains the gold standard antibiotic carrier in the management of osteomyelitis. However, biodegradable ceramic carriers may exhibit more efficient antibiotic elution properties. Through zone of inhibition (ZOI) testing and biofilm killing assays, we assessed the in vitro elution efficacy of vancomycin released from calcium sulfate (PG‐CSH) and PMMA beads as carriers on clinical strains of Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis, which were isolated from sonication fluid of orthopedic implant‐associated infections. Overall, vancomycin‐loaded PMMA and PG‐CSH beads showed potency (ZOI above 4 cm2) for up to 14 days against ATCC and clinical strains. Vancomycin‐loaded PG‐CSH beads displayed higher rates, exhibited a more stable antibiotic elution, had greater impacts on bacterial colony‐forming unit counts and produced higher ZOIs; additionally, statistically significant differences (Student's t test) were observed in different time sets during the experiment. In the biofilm killing assay, PG‐CSH loaded with vancomycin resulted in more bacterial deaths. In conclusion, in the present study, both PG‐CSH and PMMA beads acted as good carriers, but greater antimicrobial elution and biofilm bacterial killing were observed with PG‐CSH than PMMA. Future in vitro research should focus on testing other difficult‐to‐treat clinical strains, including multidrug resistant coagulase‐negative staphylococci and Gram‐negative bacilli.
Current challenges and future directions for engineering extracellular vesicles for heart, lung, blood and sleep diseases
Authors: Li Guoping , Chen Tianji , Dahlman James , Eniola‐Adefeso Lola , Ghiran Ionita C. , Kurre Peter , Lam Wilbur A. , Lang Jennifer K. , Marbán Eduardo , Martín Pilar , Momma Stefan , Moos Malcolm , Nelson Deborah J. , Raffai Robert L. , Ren Xi , Sluijter Joost P. G. , Stott Shannon L. , Vunjak‐Novakovic Gordana , Walker Nykia D. , Wang Zhenjia , Witwer Kenneth W. , Yang Phillip C. , Lundberg Martha S. , Ochocinska Margaret J. , Wong Renee , Zhou Guofei , Chan Stephen Y. , Das Saumya , Sundd Prithu
Published: February 2023

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) carry diverse bioactive components including nucleic acids, proteins, lipids and metabolites that play versatile roles in intercellular and interorgan communication. The capability to modulate their stability, tissue‐specific targeting and cargo render EVs as promising nanotherapeutics for treating heart, lung, blood and sleep (HLBS) diseases. However, current limitations in large‐scale manufacturing of therapeutic‐grade EVs, and knowledge gaps in EV biogenesis and heterogeneity pose significant challenges in their clinical application as diagnostics or therapeutics for HLBS diseases. To address these challenges, a strategic workshop with multidisciplinary experts in EV biology and U.S. Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) officials was convened by the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute. The presentations and discussions were focused on summarizing the current state of science and technology for engineering therapeutic EVs for HLBS diseases, identifying critical knowledge gaps and regulatory challenges and suggesting potential solutions to promulgate translation of therapeutic EVs to the clinic. Benchmarks to meet the critical quality attributes set by the USFDA for other cell‐based therapeutics were discussed. Development of novel strategies and approaches for scaling‐up EV production and the quality control/quality analysis (QC/QA) of EV‐based therapeutics were recognized as the necessary milestones for future investigations.
Prevalence, association, and prognostic significance of polypharmacy and sarcopenia in patients with liver cirrhosis
Authors: Hanai Tatsunori , Nishimura Kayoko , Miwa Takao , Maeda Toshihide , Imai Kenji , Suetsugu Atsushi , Takai Koji , Shimizu Masahito
Published: February 2023

Background and Aim

Polypharmacy and sarcopenia are increasing public health problems worldwide. However, data on the prevalence, association, and prognostic significance of polypharmacy and sarcopenia in patients with liver cirrhosis are limited.

Methods

Polypharmacy and sarcopenia were assessed in 239 patients with liver cirrhosis. Polypharmacy was defined as the daily use of six or more medications, and sarcopenia was diagnosed based on muscle strength and mass evaluated on computed tomography. The association between polypharmacy and sarcopenia and their effects on mortality were analyzed using logistic regression and Cox proportional hazards models.

Results

Among the 239 patients, 52% were men, the median age was 68 years, and the number of medications used per patient was 6. Further, 53% and 29% patients had polypharmacy and sarcopenia, respectively. The number of medications used and the prevalence of sarcopenia increased with age. Patients with polypharmacy and sarcopenia had similar characteristics, such as older age, increased medication use, advanced liver disease, and decreased muscle strength and mass. After adjusting for confounders, polypharmacy was significantly associated with sarcopenia (odds ratio, 2.11; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.07–4.17). During the median follow‐up of 2.2 years, 62 (26%) patients died. Polypharmacy (hazard ratio [HR], 1.83; 95% CI, 1.01–3.37) and sarcopenia (HR, 2.00; 95% CI, 1.12–3.50) independently predicted mortality. The prognostic significance of polypharmacy was more prominent in older adults than in younger adults (HR, 2.31; 95% CI, 1.01–5.67).

Conclusion

Polypharmacy and sarcopenia are interrelated and associated with poor prognosis in patients with cirrhosis. Further large, prospective, population‐based studies are required to validate these findings.
Subcutaneous implantable cardioverter‐defibrillator noise following left ventricular assist device implantation
Authors: Khetarpal Banveet Kaur , Javaid Awad , Lee Justin Z. , Kusumoto Fred , Mulpuru Siva K. , Sorajja Dan , Cha Yong‐Mei , Srivathsan Komandoor
Published: February 2023

Background

The incidence and impact of noise in a subcutaneous implantable cardioverter defibrillator (S‐ICD) after left ventricular assist device (LVAD) implantation is not well established.

Methods

We performed a retrospective study of patients implanted with LVAD and with a pre‐existing S‐ICD between January 2005 and December 2020 at the three Mayo Clinic centers (Minnesota, Arizona, and Florida).

Results

Of the 908 LVAD patients, a pre‐existing S‐ICD was present in 9 patients (mean age 49.1 ± 13.7 years, 66.7% males), 100% with Boston Scientific third‐generation EMBLEM MRI S‐ICD, 11% with HeartMate II (HM II), 44% with HeartMate 3 (HM 3), and 44% with HeartWare (HW) LVAD. The incidence of noise from LVAD‐related electromagnetic interference (EMI) was 33% and was only seen with HM 3 LVAD. Multiple measures attempted to resolve noise, including using alternative S‐ICD sensing vector, adjusting S‐ICD time zone, and increasing LVAD pump speed, were unsuccessful, necessitating S‐ICD device therapies to be turned off permanently.

Conclusions

The incidence of LVAD‐related S‐ICD noise is high in patients with concomitant LVAD and S‐ICD with significant impact on device function. As conservative management failed to resolve the EMI, the S‐ICDs had to be programmed off to avoid inappropriate shocks. This study highlights the importance of awareness of LVAD‐SICD device interference and the need to improve S‐ICD detection algorithms to eliminate noise.
Impact of double cryogelation process on a macroporous dye‐affinity hydrogel
Authors: Trinh Thi Hoai Thu , Ye Lei , Hajizadeh Solmaz
Published: February 2023

Cryogels with interconnected channels allow high flow‐through properties and mass transfer when dealing with complex mixtures such as non‐clarified crude extracts. However, their mechanical strength can be challenged due to a large void volume inside the polymeric network. We have addressed this problem by forming a double‐layer cryogel applied as a dye‐affinity chromatography gel. In this study, poly(acrylamide‐co‐allyl glycidyl ether) cryogel was prepared at sub‐zero temperature. The second layer was then prepared inside the primary cryogel under the same conditions to form a double‐layer network. Cibacron Blue F3GA, a dye molecule, was immobilized on the surface of the cryogels. Bovine serum albumin was used as a model molecule to study the adsorption/elution procedure in batch and continuous modes. The maximum batch binding capacity and the dynamic binding capacity for the single‐layer cryogel were 18 and 0.11, and for the double‐layer cryogel were 7.5 and 0.9 mg/g of gel, respectively. However, the mechanical stability of the double‐layer cryogel increased 7‐fold (144 kPa). It was found that the kinetic and adsorption isotherms follow pseudo‐second‐order and Freundlich models, respectively. The regeneration of the columns after adsorption/elution cycles was evaluated, and no significant loss of capacity was observed after 10 cycles.
Creation of Thermal Response Ordered Mesostructure Polymer Particles Using Diblock Copolymers via 3D Confined Self‐Assembly
Authors: Tong Liang , Nabae Yuta , Hirai Tomoyasu , Yabu Hiroshi , Hayakawa Teruaki
Published: February 2023

Advancements in nanotechnology and materials science have led to an increased demand for specific material functions, preparation, and design of polymer particles with ordered internal and surface mesostructures. In this work, well‐shaped spheres of poly(2,2,2‐trifluoroethyl methacrylate)‐b‐poly(2‐vinylpyridine) with four different molecular weights are prepared by 3D confined self‐assembly. After thermal annealing, these spheres exhibit ordered internal and surface mesostructure. Analytical studies suggest that the internal mesoporous structure is formed by the microphase separation properties of the diblock copolymers, while the formation of ordered mesopores on the surface is caused by the decomposition of the PTFEMA domains under electron irradiation. Other microphase‐separated structures, such as cylindrical and lamellar ones, are observed using solution casting and non‐solution casting methods in the same diblock copolymer, indicating that the 3D confined environment induces the formation of internal ordered spherical microphase‐separated structures in the particles.
An analytical model for 2D consolidation of unsaturated soil with semi‐permeable boundaries considering self‐weight stress and time‐dependent loading
Authors: Liu Yang , Zheng Jun‐Jie , Lu Jia‐Tai
Published: February 2023

This paper proposes an analytical solution for 2D (two‐dimensional) consolidation of unsaturated soil with impeded drainage boundaries by considering the combined effects of self‐weight stress of soil and time‐dependent loading. The governing equation of the 2D consolidation model was first formulated, followed by an analytical solution employing the methods of the Laplace transform technique and separation of variables. The solution is then degraded to validate the correctness against two classical lab tests and existing solutions. Subsequently, the proposed solution is further verified against finite element calculations. The results indicate that the self‐weight stress of soil acts as an additional load applied to the unsaturated soil, the larger the self‐weight stress, the greater the value of initial EPPs (excess pore pressures). Meanwhile, it can be easily found that the larger the value of self‐weight stress, the larger the consolidation settlement. Without accounting for the effect of self‐weight stress, the settlement of the soil will certainly be underestimated and the dissipation characteristics of EPPs will not be accurately captured. It can be also found that the ratio of ka/kw also significantly influenced the consolidation behavior.
A theoretical adsorption study of the inner‐core and outer‐core hydrated alkali metal cation–circumcoronene complexes
Authors: Georgieva Ivelina , Tunega Daniel , Aquino Adelia J. A. , Lischka Hans
Published: February 2023

Cation‐π interactions are theoretically investigated for alkali metal cation (M+)‐circumcoronene (CC) complexes (M = Li, Na, K), in gas phase and in aqueous solution with consideration of micro‐ and global solvation models using the DFT/PBEh‐3c‐RI/TZVP method. The solvent effect on the M+–CC energy interaction regarding the cation size and the stability of inner‐ and outer‐sphere [M(H2O)n]+–CC complexes are calculated by means of geometry optimizations and potential energy (PE) curves. The PE curves, calculated as a function of perpendicular distance of M+ to the CC plane, predicted one energy minimum for each of the isolated M+–CC complexes. However, for microhydrated complexes, two minima assigned to two different surface complexations were obtained. Microhydrated Li+ and Na+ favored outer‐sphere complexation while inner‐sphere complexation was found more stable for microhydrated K+. These results illustrate nicely the key role, which the cation radius plays for the polarization of the water molecules and the aromatic system.
Attitudes and knowledge about HPV vaccination among Ghanaian women with cervical cancer
Authors: Zurales Katherine R. , Appiah‐Kubi Adu , Bell Sarah G. , Konney Thomas , Tawiah Augustine , Kobernik Emily K. , Lawrence Emma R.
Published: February 2023

Objective

To explore knowledge about the human papillomavirus (HPV), HPV vaccination, barriers to vaccination and acceptance of the HPV vaccine in the highest‐risk and most‐impacted population in Ghana.

Methods

A survey was administered to 100 women with histologically confirmed cervical cancer at a teaching hospital in Ghana.

Results

Participants had a mean age of 59 (±14.3) years, 65.0% had a parity of five or higher and 89.0% had a monthly income less than 500 Ghana cedis ($63 USD). Seventy‐nine percent of participants had a diagnosis of stage III or greater cervical cancer. Only 8.0% had heard of HPV and 4.0% knew that HPV caused cervical cancer. Fifty‐five percent had not heard of vaccines, in general; of the remainder, the majority endorsed that vaccines, in general, were effective (89.0%) and safe (95.0%). No participants had received the HPV vaccine. After a brief education session, 94% believed the HPV vaccine was effective and 65.0% were categorised as having ‘high vaccine acceptance’ after responding ‘definitely yes’ to recommending the HPV vaccine to female relatives, male relatives and the community. There were no significant differences in demographic variables or cervical cancer disease characteristics between the ‘high vaccine acceptance’ and ‘some vaccine hesitancy’ groups.

Conclusion

Although women with cervical cancer in Ghana have low awareness of HPV and HPV vaccination, they demonstrate high vaccine acceptability and low hesitancy.
Kernel‐based regularization least squares algorithm for nonlinear time‐delayed systems using self‐organizing maps
Authors: Zhang Zili , Zhang Yanxin , Chen Jing , Guo Liuxiao
Published: February 2023

This article proposes a kernel‐based regularization least squares algorithm for nonlinear time‐delayed systems with unknown structure. Since the structure and the time‐delay of the model are unknown, a model pool constituted of several Volterra series is constructed with the aim of approximating the nonlinear model which has different time‐delays. Then, a self‐organizing maps method and a kernel‐based regularization method are interactively used to update the time‐delay and parameters. Compared with the traditional algorithms, the proposed algorithm has no limitation on the nonlinear model, and can describe the dynamics of the nonlinear model with a simple structure. Finally, simulation examples are given to show the effectiveness of the algorithm.
Electrohydrodynamic Printing of Microfibrous Architectures with Cell‐Scale Spacing for Improved Cellular Migration and Neurite Outgrowth
Authors: Yao Cong , Qiu Zhennan , Li Xiao , Zhu Hui , Li Dichen , He Jiankang
Published: February 2023

Electrohydrodynamic (EHD) printing provides unparalleled opportunities in fabricating microfibrous architectures to direct cellular orientation. However, it faces great challenges in depositing orderly microfibers with cell‐scale spacing due to inherent fiber–fiber electrostatic interactions. Here a finite element method is established to analyze the electrostatic forces induced on the EHD‐printed microfibers and the relationship between the fiber diameter and spacing for parallel deposition of EHD‐printed microfibers is revealed theoretically and experimentally. It is found that uniform fiber arrangement can be achieved when the fiber spacing is five times larger than the fiber diameter. This finding enables the successful printing of parallel fibrous architectures with a fiber diameter of 4.9 ± 0.1 µm and a cell‐scale fiber spacing of 25.6 ± 1.9 µm. The resultant microfibrous architectures exhibit unique capability to direct cellular alignment and enhance cellular density and migration as the fiber spacing decreases from 100 to 25 µm. The EHD‐printed parallel microfibers with cell‐scale spacing are found to improve the outgrowth length of neurites and accelerate the migration of Schwann cells from Dorsal Root Ganglion spheres, which facilitate the formation of densely‐arranged and highly‐aligned cellular constructs. The presented method is promising to produce biomimetic microfibrous architectures for functional nerve regeneration.
Water‐Stabilized Vanadyl Phosphate Monohydrate Ultrathin Nanosheets toward High Voltage Al‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Zheng Jiening , Xu Tian , Xia Guanglin , Cui Wen‐Gang , Yang Yaxiong , Yu Xuebin
Published: February 2023

Al ion batteries (AIBs) are attracting considerable attention owing to high volumetric capacity, low cost, and high safety. However, the strong electrostatic interaction between Al3+ and host lattice leads to discontented cycling life and inferior rate capability. Herein, a new strategy of employing water molecules contained VOPO4·H2O to boost Al3+ migration via the charge shielding effect of water is reported. It is revealed that VOPO4·H2O with water lubrication effect and smaller steric hindrance owns high capacity and fast Al3+ diffusion, while the loss of unstable water upon cycling leads to a rapid performance degradation. To address this problem, ultrathin VOPO4·H2O@MXene nanosheets are fabricated via the formed TiOV bond between VOPO4·H2O and MXene. The MXene aided exfoliation results in enhanced VOwater bond strength between H2O and VOPO4 that endows the obtained composite with strong water holding ability, contributing to the extraordinary cycling stability. Consequently, the VOPO4·H2O@MXene delivers a high discharge potential of 1.8 V and maintains discharge capacities of 410 and 374.8 mAh g−1 after 420 and 2000 cycles at the current densities of 0.5 and 1.0 A g−1, respectively. This work provides a new understanding of water‐contained AIBs cathodes and vital guidance for developing high‐performance AIBs.
NIR‐II Perylene Monoimide‐Based Photothermal Agent with Strengthened Donor–Acceptor Conjugation for Deep Orthotopic Glioblastoma Phototheranostics
Authors: Guan Jun , Liu Chang , Ji Chendong , Zhang Wenchao , Fan Zongyang , He Penggang , Ouyang Qiuhong , Qin Meng , Yin Meizhen
Published: February 2023

Extensive efforts have been devoted to the design of organic photothermal agents (PTAs) that absorb in the second near‐infrared (NIR‐II) bio‐window, which can provide deeper tissue penetration that is significant for phototheranostics of lethal brain tumors. Herein, the first example of NIR‐II‐absorbing small organic molecule (N1) derived from perylene monoamide (PMI) and its bio‐application after nano‐encapsulation of N1 to function as a nano‐agent for phototheranostics of deep orthotopic glioblastoma (GBM) is reported. By adopting a dual modification strategy of introducing a donor‐acceptor unit and extending π‐conjugation, the obtained N1 can absorb in 1000–1400 nm region and exhibit high photothermal conversation due to the apparent intramolecular charge transfer (ICT). A choline analogue, 2‐methacryloyloxyethyl phosphorylcholine, capable of interacting specifically with receptors on the surface of the blood‐brain barrier (BBB), is used to fabricate the amphiphilic copolymer for the nano‐encapsulation of N1. The obtained nanoparticles demonstrate efficient BBB‐crossing due to the receptor‐mediated transcytosis as well as the small nanoparticle size of approximately 26 nm. The prepared nanoparticles exhibit excellent photoacoustic imaging and significant growth inhibition of deep orthotopic GBM. The current study demonstrates the enormous potential of PMI‐based NIR‐II PTAs and provides an efficient phototheranostic paradigm for deep orthotopic GBM.
Bio‐inspired ionic skins for smart medicine
Authors: Lei Zhouyue , Xu Wentao , Zhang Guogao
Published: February 2023

Ionic skins are developed to mimic the mechanical properties and functions of natural skins. They have demonstrated substantial advantages to serve as the crucial interface to bridge the gap between humans and machines. The first‐generation ionic skin is a stretchable capacitor comprising hydrogels as the ionic conductors and elastomers as the dielectrics, and realizes pressure and strain sensing through the measurement of the capacitance. Subsequent advances have been made to improve the mechanical properties of ionic skins and import diverse functions. For example, ultrahigh stretchability, strong interfacial adhesion, self‐healing, moisturizing ability, and various sensing capabilities have been achieved separately or simultaneously. Most ionic skins are attached to natural skins to monitor bio‐electrical signals continuously. Ionic skins have also been found with significant potential to serve as a smart drug‐containing reservoir, which can release drugs spatially, temporally, and in a controllable way. Herein, this review focuses on the design and fabrication of ionic skins, and their applications related to smart medicine. Moreover, challenges and opportunities are also discussed. It is hoped that the development of bio‐inspired ionic skins will provide a paradigm shift for self‐diagnosis and healthcare.
Microfluidic preparation of optical sensors for biomedical applications
Authors: Wang Qiao , Wang Chong , Yang Xinyuan , Wang Jiali , Zhang Zhuohao , Shang Luoran
Published: February 2023

Optical biosensors are platforms that translate biological information into detectable optical signals, and have extensive applications in various fields due to their characteristics of high sensitivity, high specificity, dynamic sensing, etc. The development of optical sensing materials is an important part of optical sensors. In this review, we emphasize the role of microfluidic technology in the preparation of optical sensing materials and the application of the derived optical sensors in the biomedical field. We first present some common optical sensing mechanisms and the functional responsive materials involved. Then, we describe the preparation of these sensing materials by microfluidics. Afterward, we enumerate the biomedical applications of these optical materials as biosensors in disease diagnosis, drug evaluation, and organ‐on‐a‐chip. Finally, we discuss the challenges and prospects in this field.
Migration and Integration in Turbulent Times
Authors: Jakobson Mari-Liis , King Russell , Moroşanu Laura , Vetik Raivo
Published: February 2023

This opening chapter offers a novel perspective and terminology for exploring the complexities of migration, integration and migration governance in a context where various crises overlap and intersect. The chapter argues that the so-called migration crises are actually cascading crises, where crisis-induced migration morphs into a governance crisis and then into a political crisis, subsequently bringing about a crisis of integration. The different cascades and the co-occurrence of various overlapping crises creates a situation of turbulence, which presents a particular governance challenge and creates anxieties both among migrants and other members of societies.
Immigrants as the ‘Antagonists’? Populism, Negative Emotions and Anti-immigrant Attitudes in Ecuador
Authors: Umpierrez de Reguero Sebastián , González-Paredes Santiago , Ríos-Rivera Ingrid
Published: February 2023

Given the increasing migration inflows in Ecuador in recent years, both the ruling government and the opposition, as well as a part of the public opinion, have expressed concerns about the very presence of certain foreign residents, occasionally portraying them as the ‘antagonist’ by natives. Considering this context of rising anxiety for Ecuadorians over immigrants of certain nationalities, particularly Colombians, Cubans and Venezuelans, we focus in this chapter on emotions and the political psychology of the voter. This is to explore to what extent Ecuadorian voters’ emotional underpinning and anti-immigrant attitudes are associated with their populist and elitist attitudes. Using individual-level data and structural equation modelling to unpack the nexus between different negative emotions, attitudes and prospective electoral behaviour, our results report that populist attitudes significantly lead to higher immigrant attitudes and are also positively correlated to electorally supporting a populist radical left-wing candidate. Furthermore, having negative emotions – predominantly anger and distrust – towards some foreign residents increases the probability of depicting anti-immigrant attitudes and voting for populist choices.
LGBTQ+ Forced Migrants: Precarious Experiences of Arrival and Settlement in Wales
Authors: Vamvaka-Tatsi Ourania
Published: February 2023

The refugee crisis has brought to the fore conversations on ‘asylum-seekers’ and ‘refugees’, terms that suggest a linear progression through the legal system and risk over-simplifying migration patterns. This chapter seeks to contribute to research on queer asylum policy by focusing on how LGBTQ+ forced migrants’ precarious and traumatic experiences of arrival and settlement in Wales raise questions around otherness, belonging, community, expression of sexual orientation and gender identities.
Tensor triangular geometry of filtered objects and sheaves
Authors: Aoki Ko
Published: February 2023

We compute the Balmer spectra of compact objects of tensor triangulated categories whose objects are filtered or graded objects of (or sheaves valued in) another tensor triangulated category. Notable examples include the filtered derived category of a scheme as well as the homotopy category of filtered spectra. We use an$$\infty $$∞-categorical method to properly formulate and deal with the problem. Our computations are based on a point-free approach, so that distributive lattices and semilattices are used as key tools. In the Appendix, we prove that the$$\infty $$∞-topos of hypercomplete sheaves on an$$\infty $$∞-site is recovered from a basis, which may be of independent interest.
TMS-evoked EEG potentials demonstrate altered cortical excitability in migraine with aura
Authors: Helling Robert M. , Perenboom Matthijs J. L. , Bauer Prisca R. , Carpay Johannes A. , Sander Josemir W. , Ferrari Michel D. , Visser Gerhard H. , Tolner Else A.
Published: February 2023

Migraine is associated with altered sensory processing, that may be evident as changes in cortical responsivity due to altered excitability, especially in migraine with aura. Cortical excitability can be directly assessed by combining transcranial magnetic stimulation with electroencephalography (TMS-EEG). We measured TMS evoked potential (TEP) amplitude and response consistency as these measures have been linked to cortical excitability but were not yet reported in migraine.

We recorded 64-channel EEG during single-pulse TMS on the vertex interictally in 10 people with migraine with aura and 10 healthy controls matched for age, sex and resting motor threshold. On average 160 pulses around resting motor threshold were delivered through a circular coil in clockwise and counterclockwise direction. Trial-averaged TEP responses, frequency spectra and phase clustering (over the entire scalp as well as in frontal, central and occipital midline electrode clusters) were compared between groups, including comparison to sham-stimulation evoked responses.

Migraine and control groups had a similar distribution of TEP waveforms over the scalp. In migraine with aura, TEP responses showed reduced amplitude around the frontal and occipital N100 peaks. For the migraine and control groups, responses over the scalp were affected by current direction for the primary motor cortex, somatosensory cortex and sensory association areas, but not for frontal, central or occipital midline clusters.

This study provides evidence of altered TEP responses in-between attacks in migraine with aura. Decreased TEP responses around the N100 peak may be indicative of reduced cortical GABA-mediated inhibition and expand observations on enhanced cortical excitability from earlier migraine studies using more indirect measurements.
Acute Biomechanical Effects of Empagliflozin on Living Isolated Human Heart Failure Myocardium
Authors: Amesz Jorik H. , Langmuur Sanne J. J. , Epskamp Nina , Bogers Ad J. J. C. , de Groot Natasja M. S. , Manintveld Olivier C. , Taverne Yannick J. H. J.
Published: February 2023

Purpose

Multiple randomized controlled trials have presented SGLT2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) as novel pharmacological therapy for patients with heart failure, resulting in reductions in hospitalization for heart failure and mortality. Given the absence of SGLT2 receptors in the heart, mechanisms of direct cardioprotective effects of SGLT2i are complex and remain to be investigated. In this study, we evaluated the direct biomechanical effects of SGLT2i empagliflozin on isolated myocardium from end-stage heart failure patients.

Methods

Ventricular tissue biopsies obtained from 7 patients undergoing heart transplantation or ventricular assist device implantation surgery were cut into 27 living myocardial slices (LMS) and mounted in custom-made cultivation chambers with mechanical preload and electrical stimulation, resulting in cardiac contractions. These 300 µm thick LMS were subjected to 10 µM empagliflozin and with continuous recording of biomechanical parameters.

Results

Empagliflozin did not affect the maximum contraction force of the slices, however, increased total contraction duration by 13% (p = 0.002) which was determined by prolonged time to peak and time to relaxation (p = 0.009 and p = 0.003, respectively).

Conclusion

The addition of empagliflozin to LMS from end-stage heart failure patients cultured in a biomimetic system improves contraction and relaxation kinetics by increasing total contraction duration without diminishing maximum force production. Therefore, we present convincing evidence that SGLT2i can directly act on the myocardium in absence of systemic influences from other organ systems.
Between welcome culture and border fence
Authors: Blokker Nico , Blessing André , Dayanik Erenay , Kuhn Jonas , Padó Sebastian , Lapesa Gabriella
Published: February 2023

Newspaper reports provide a rich source of information on the unfolding of public debates, which can serve as basis for inquiry in political science. Such debates are often triggered by critical events, which attract public attention and incite the reactions of political actors: crisis sparks the debate. However, due to the challenges of reliable annotation and modeling, few large-scale datasets with high-quality annotation are available. This paper introduces DebateNet2.0, which traces the political discourse on the 2015 European refugee crisis in the German quality newspaper taz. The core units of our annotation are political claims (requests for specific actions to be taken) and the actors who advance them (politicians, parties, etc.). Our contribution is twofold. First, we document and release DebateNet2.0 along with its companion R package, . Second, we outline and apply a Discourse Network Analysis (DNA) to DebateNet2.0, comparing two crucial moments of the policy debate on the “refugee crisis”: the migration flux through the Mediterranean in April/May and the one along the Balkan route in September/October. We guide the reader through the methods involved in constructing a discourse network from a newspaper, demonstrating that there is not one single discourse network for the German migration debate, but multiple ones, depending on the research question through the associated choices regarding political actors, policy fields and time spans.
Macroinvertebrate assemblages from a stream-wetland complex: a case study with implications for assessing restored hydrologic functions
Authors: Braccia Amy , Lau Jamie , Robinson Jesse , Croasdaile Michael , Park Jeong , Parola Art
Published: February 2023

Legacies of past land use persist today in the form of incised, single-threaded stream channels with dramatically different hydrologic functions of pre-colonial stream valleys. Restoration practices that aim to return lost hydrologic functions by re-establishing floodplain and groundwater connections should result in stream habitat and biological assemblages that differ from modern, single-threaded channels. The aim of this case study was to identify attributes of macroinvertebrate assemblages that might serve as biological indicators of improved hydrologic functions following the restoration of a stream-wetland complex, similar to a Stage 0 restoration, of a headwater valley in the Western Allegheny region of the USA. We monitored hydrologic functions and macroinvertebrate assemblages from stream reaches of a restored and unrestored site over multiple years during the early years following restoration. Reduced bed mobility and increased flow duration indicated improved hydrologic functions from the restored site. Aggregate metrics that capture functional attributes of macroinvertebrate assemblage (i.e., density and biomass) were consistently greater from the restored site. EPT biomass from restored pools was 3–4 × greater than amounts from the unrestored site as a result of consistently greater mayfly abundance. Restored pools also supported a subassemblage of taxa with life history attributes that are aligned with habitat conditions created from improved hydrologic functions. Results from this case study demonstrate the importance of habitat-specific sampling designs that report the absolute abundance of potential biological indicators. Findings from this case study should help guide the development of rapid biological indicators of improved hydrologic functions.
The Role of Animals in Buffering Against Cisgenderism in and Beyond Family Contexts for Trans Young People Living in Australia
Authors: Riggs Damien W. , Rosenberg Shoshana , Taylor Nik , Fraser Heather
Published: February 2023

Purpose

The purpose of the study reported in this paper was to explore the role of animals in buffering against cisgenderist violence experienced by trans young people.

Method

Interviews were conducted with 17 Australian trans young people and one of their parents who spoke with us about their relationships with their animals living in the home, including in terms of animals providing a protective function against the negative effects of cisgenderism. The transcribed interviews were analyzed thematically.

Results

Thematic analysis resulted in the development of three themes. First, at the psychological level, animals helped young people to combat feelings of dysphoria, wrought by the violent effects of social norms about gender. Second, at the interpersonal level, animals helped to soothe young people when they were faced with less than supportive or indeed hostile responses from family members and other people in their lives. Third, at the community level, the companionship provided by animals offered a buffer against feelings of marginalization premised on cisgenderist social norms.

Conclusions

All three themes speak to the importance of conceptualizing violence in family contexts as more than just the obvious: as encompassing more subtle forms of marginalization that in their net effect may constitute forms of violence or microaggressions. As a counter to these subtle forms of violence, animals are thus perceived as playing an important role as confidantes, as offering a place of non-judgemental safety, and as a touchstone to the more-than-human.
Adding Structured Components to Home Visitation to Reduce Mothers’ Risk for Child Maltreatment: a Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: van der Stouwe Trudy , Leijten Patty , Asscher Jessica J. , Deković Maja , van der Put Claudia E.
Published: February 2023

Purpose

Home visitation program effects are generally small, which may be caused by flexible intervention content leading to inconsistent outcomes. In this study we therefore examined whether the effectiveness of a Dutch home visitation program (i.e., Supportive Parenting) can be improved by adding structured intervention components targeting key risk factors for child maltreatment: parental sense of competence, perceived stress, parental anger, and PTSD symptoms.

Method

Participants were randomly assigned to an experimental group (n = 74) that received four additional intervention components in two home visits, or a control group (n = 60) that received regular Supportive Parenting. Outcomes were assessed before (T1) and after (T2) the first, and before (T3) and after (T4) the second home visit. Effects were examined using ANCOVA for primary outcomes: parental sense of competence, perceived stress, parental anger, and PTSD symptoms, and secondary outcomes: risk of child maltreatment, parental warmth, and negative parenting. Moderation effects were examined for T1 scores, child temperament and life events.

Results

Mothers who received the intervention components showed less stress compared to the control group at T3 and T4. There were no differences between groups on other outcomes and no moderation effects, although parental sense of competence reduced and anger increased within the experimental group specifically.

Conclusion

The structured components may enhance the effectiveness of Supportive Parenting to reduce parenting stress. Future research into how other outcomes can be improved is needed.
Characterization and phylogenetic analysis of the complete mitochondrial genome of Mango tilapia (Sarotherodon galilaeus: Cichlidae)
Authors: Fiteha Yosur G. , Rashed M. A. , Ali R. A. M. , Magdy M.
Published: February 2023

Background

Sarotherodon galilaeus (Linné, 1758) is a member of the family Cichlidae, which is considered the most important aquaculture freshwater species endemic to Africa and the Middle East. The genetics and molecular biology of this species are rare. This requires more comprehensive mitochondrial genomes-based phylogenetics to enhance understanding of the relationship and delineate this species.

Methods and results

Here, we assembled the complete mitogenome of S. galilaeus using Illumina high-throughput sequencing technology. The mango tilapia mitogenome was 16,631 bp in length with an AT composition of 53.4% and 46.4% GC content. It encodes 37 genes comprising two ribosomal RNA genes (rRNAs), 22 transfer RNA genes (tRNAs), and 13 protein-coding genes (PCGs) as well as the D-loop known as the control region. The phylogenetic tree was conducted to provide a relationship within the haplotilapiine lineage based on the maximum likelihood method, and the newly sequenced S. galilaeus was clustered with other Sarotherodon species.

Conclusion

Our results provide a new perception of the genetic basis of S. galilaeus species for further research on systematics, evolution, population genetics, and molecular ecology.
A first insight into the Polish Bochnia Salt Mine metagenome
Authors: Lach Jakub , Królikowska Klaudyna , Baranowska Monika , Krupińska Magdalena , Strapagiel Dominik , Matera-Witkiewicz Agnieszka , Stączek Paweł
Published: February 2023

The Bochnia Salt Mine is one of the oldest mines in Europe. It was established in the thirteenth century, and actively operated until 1990. The mine has been placed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. Previous research describing Polish salt mines has been focused on bioaerosol characteristics and the identification of microorganisms potentially important for human health. The use of Polish salt mines as inhalation chambers for patients of health resorts has also been investigated. Nevertheless, the biodiversity of salt mines associated with biotechnological potential has not been well characterized. The present study paper examines the biodiversity of microorganisms in the Bochnia Salt Mine based on 16S rRNA gene and shotgun sequencing. Biodiversity studies revealed a significantly higher relative abundance of Chlamydiae at the first level of the mine (3.5%) compared to the other levels (< 0.1%). Patescibacteria microorganisms constituted a high percentage (21.6%) in the sample from site RA6. Shotgun sequencing identified 16 unique metagenome-assembled genomes (MAGs). Although one was identified as Halobacterium bonnevillei, the others have not yet been assigned to any species; it is possible that these species may be undescribed. Preliminary analyses of the biotechnological and pharmaceutical potential of microorganisms inhabiting the mine were also performed, and the biosynthetic gene cluster (BGC) profiles and antimicrobial peptide (AMP) coding genes in individual samples were characterized. Hundreds of BGCs and dozens of AMP coding genes were identified in metagenomes. Our findings indicate that Polish salt mines are promising sites for further research aimed at identifying microorganisms that are producers of potentially important substances with biotechnological and pharmaceutical applications.
Evaluating instruments for assessing healthspan: a multi-center cross-sectional study on health-related quality of life (HRQL) and frailty in the companion dog
Authors: Chen Frances L. , Ullal Tarini V. , Graves Jessica L. , Ratcliff Ellen R. , Naka Alexander , McKenzie Brennen , Carttar Tennery A. , Super Kaitlyn M. , Austriaco Jessica , Weber Sunny Y. , Vaughn Julie , LaCroix-Fralish Michael L.
Published: February 2023

Developing valid tools that assess key determinants of canine healthspan such as frailty and health-related quality of life (HRQL) is essential to characterizing and understanding aging in dogs. Additionally, because the companion dog is an excellent translational model for humans, such tools can be applied to evaluate gerotherapeutics and investigate mechanisms underlying longevity in both dogs and humans. In this multi-center, cross-sectional study, we investigated the use of a clinical questionnaire (Canine Frailty Index; CFI; Banzato et al., 2019) to assess frailty and an owner assessment tool (VetMetrica HRQL) to evaluate HRQL in 451 adult companion dogs. Results demonstrated validity of the tools by confirming expectations that frailty score increases and HRQL scores deteriorate with age. CFI scores were significantly higher (higher frailty) and HRQL scores significantly lower (worse HRQL) in old dogs (≥ 7 years of age) compared to young dogs (≥ 2 and < 6 years of age). Body size (small < 11.3 kg (25 lbs) or large > 22.7 kg (50 lbs)) was not associated with CFI or total HRQL score. However, older, larger dogs showed faster age-related decline in HRQL scores specific to owner-reported activity and comfort. Findings suggest that the clinician-assessed CFI and owner-reported VetMetrica HRQL are useful tools to evaluate two determinants of healthspan in dogs: the accumulation of frailty and the progressive decline in quality of life. Establishing tools that operationalize the assessment of canine healthspan is critical for the advancement of geroscience and the development of gerotherapeutics that benefit both human and veterinary medicine.

Graphical abstract
Browsing into a Panamanian tropical rainforest: micro- and mesowear study of Central American red brocket deer
Authors: Martínez-Polanco María Fernanda , Rivals Florent
Published: February 2023

The Mazama genus is one of the more diverse genera among deer (Cervidae); its classification is controversial because of its complex phylogenetic relationships. The Central American red brocket deer (Mazama temama) is distributed from Central America to the northwest of South America. Studying the diet of mammals gives us information about the environment in which they live, considering that animals select food according to the resources available in the surrounding environment. Mesowear and microwear provide complementary data because they present direct evidence of feeding behaviour on different time scales. The use of extant animals as control samples or baselines allows for the interpretation of the results of a study performed using the archaeological record. For this reason, the aim of this paper was to study the diet of extant M. temama from Darien and to compare it with our previous results on ancient deer from Pedro Gonzalez Island archaeological site (6060–5620 cal yr BP) and extant individuals from San Jose Island (Panama). Evidence from the meso- and microwear analyses of M. temama from Darien suggests that they were browse-dominated mixed feeders during the last years of their lives and during the days before their death. There was no evidence of seasonal variation in their diets and between sexes. This paper exemplifies the potential of studying extant materials housed in museum collections as a reference to compare them to archaeological remains. The use of the same methods allows to construct baselines to better understand the archaeological record in the Neotropics.

Graphical Abstract