bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intermittent monitoring‐based adaptive fault‐tolerant control for uncertain nonlinear systems with actuator switching
Authors: Sun Chen , Lin Yan , Li Lin
Published: February 2024

In this paper, an adaptive fault‐tolerant control (FTC) scheme is proposed for a class of uncertain nonlinear systems with actuator failure, in which a healthy actuator is available as a backup. Instead of monitoring the failure in real‐time, an intermittent monitoring mechanism (IMM) is proposed by designing a set of monitoring functions operating only at discrete time instants, which makes the proposed scheme more applicable for networked control systems for which the actuator status has to be monitored via network. An adaptive backstepping controller is designed with the errors being modified to include shifting functions. Once actuator failure is detected by the monitoring functions, the actuator is switched to its backup and the controller is reconfigured by updating the shifting functions so that the tracking error can be driven into the prescribed performance in a given time.
Bisubstrate Uridine‐Mimetic‐Peptide Conjugates as O‐GlcNAc Transferase (OGT) Inhibitors
Authors: Makwana Vivek , Sood Radhika , Malde Alpeshkumar K. , Anoopkumar‐Dukie Shailendra , Rudrawar Santosh
Published: February 2024

O‐linked β‐N‐acetylglucosamine transferase (OGT) is the pivotal mammalian enzyme that serves as a nutrient sensor, linking metabolic status to diverse cellular signalling pathways by catalyzing N‐acetylglucosamine transfer to various proteins and detects fluctuations in UDP‐GlcNAc concentrations. Increased UDP‐GlcNAc levels induce O‐GlcNAcylation of proteins, influencing the stability and localization of biomolecules, including transcription factors, kinases, phosphatases, tumour suppressors, and histone‐modifying proteins. Dysregulation and excessive OGT expression can adversely impact cellular processes. The lack of potent and selective inhibitors for OGT has impeded the progress in understanding the enzyme and its molecular mechanisms. This research article details the successful development and synthesis of a series of bisubstrate analogue inhibitors, specifically focusing on inhibiting the O‐GlcNAc transferase (OGT) enzyme. Compound 29 emerged as a promising inhibitor, demonstrating an IC50 value of 134.40 μM in in‐vitro assays. The study emphasizes the crucial role of the acceptor substrate analogue in bisubstrate inhibitor design, highlighting its equal importance alongside the donor substrate analogue. While donor substrate mimetics alone exhibited limited inhibition, their conjugation with appropriate peptides significantly enhanced the overall potency of the final bisubstrate inhibitor. Particularly, peptide derivatives proved superior as acceptor substrate analogues compared to normal substrate peptides. Preliminary data suggest the potential of uridine‐mimetics, like Q6S and Q4 C, following scaffold structure refinement. In‐silico predictions propose that replacing pyrophosphate with a flexible linker substantially improves physicochemical properties relevant to cell permeation. This comprehensive investigation offers valuable insights into designing and optimizing bisubstrate analogue inhibitors for OGT, revealing potential avenues for further refinement and development.
Enhancing Interface Interaction through Multifunctional Trisodium Citrate Modification of Electron‐Transport Layer in Fully Air‐Processed Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Liu Guangyao , Zeng Gangyi , Ren Ziqiu , Liu Jingyan , Li Xin
Published: February 2024

Electron‐transport layer (ETL) is integral in conventional perovskite solar cells (PSCs), serving as an essential role in both the growth of perovskite and the extraction of charge carriers. This dual functionality poses a challenge, especially in the context of the ETL in all‐air‐processed PSCs. Herein, a multifunctional modification strategy is proposed, where trisodium citrate (TC) is incorporated into SnO2 precursor. The introduction of TC can efficiently inhibit the agglomeration of SnO2 nanoparticle in precursor. This also eliminates the oxygen vacancy defects and reduces the work function of the SnO2 film surface. This synergistic effect remarkably improves the quality of ETL. Meanwhile, TC can passivate the undercoordinated Pb2+ at the buried interface, thus suppressing nonradiative recombination and reducing lead leakage. Furthermore, Na ions in the TC molecule facilitate the perovskite crystallization by migrating into the perovskite layer, resulting in formation of a high‐quality perovskite film. Consequently, the efficiency of the TC‐treated device made in fully ambient‐air conditions reaches 21.17% with suppressing hysteresis. In particular, the unencapsulated device maintains about 81% of the original efficiency after 2500 h under air exposure. In this study, a straightforward and effective method is presented for achieving efficient and stable air‐processed PSCs.
Synthesis of Novel Antimicrobial and Food‐Preserving Hydrogel Nanocomposite Films Based on Carboxymethylcellulose
Authors: Elmehbad Noura Y. , Mohamed Nadia A. , El‐Ghany Nahed A. Abd
Published: February 2024

The microbial resistance to the traditional antibiotics causes serious health problems and increases day by day. Thus, there is a pressing need to discover alternative antimicrobial agents of different nature than that of the conventional antibiotics. For this, novel hydrogel nanocomposite films are prepared by chemical crosslinking grafting of carboxymethyl cellulose with N,N′‐methylene‐bis‐acrylamide (CMC‐g‐MBA), which subsequently followed by loading two different weight ratios of titanium oxide nanoparticles (TiO2NPs), such as 3% (CMC‐g‐MBA/TiO2NPs‐3%) and 5% (CMC‐g‐MBA/TiO2NPs‐5%) wt%. Their chemical structure and surface morphology are confirmed using appropriate analytical techniques. Their antimicrobial activity can be arranged as follows: CMC‐g‐MBA/TiO2NPs‐5% composite > CMC‐g‐MBA/TiO2NPs‐3% composite > CMC‐g‐MBA hydrogel. While, the native CMC has no observable antimicrobial effect. CMC‐g‐MBA/TiO2NPs‐3% composite imparts good barrier properties to the coated tomato fruits, delaying their spoilage and protecting them from the environmental microbes compared to the uncoated ones. CMC‐g‐MBA/TiO2NPs‐5% composite is safe on the normal human cells. Thus, incorporation of both MBA and TiO2NPs into CMC greatly develops its antimicrobial activity and provides a wonderful approach to attain promising materials that can efficiently compete with conventional antibiotics.
Supercritical CO2 fluid extract from Stellariae Radix ameliorates 2,4‐dinitrochlorobenzene‐induced atopic dermatitis by inhibit M1 macrophages polarization via AMPK activation
Authors: Wu Wei , Song Le , Wang Hong , Feng Lu , Li Zhenkai , Li Yanqing , Li Le , Peng Li
Published: February 2024

Yin chai hu (Radix Stellariae) is a root medicine that is frequently used in Chinese traditional medicine to treat fever and malnutrition. In modern medicine, it has been discovered to have anti‐inflammatory, anti‐allergic, and anticancer properties. In a previous study, we were able to extract lipids from Stellariae Radix using supercritical CO2 extraction (SRE), and these sterol lipids accounted for up to 88.29% of the extract. However, the impact of SRE on the development of atopic dermatitis (AD) has not yet been investigated. This study investigates the inhibitory effects of SRE on AD development using a 2,4‐dinitrochlorobenzene (DNCB)‐induced AD mouse model. Treatment with SRE significantly reduced the dermatitis score and histopathological changes compared with the DNCB group. The study found that treatment with SRE resulted in a decrease of pro‐inflammatory cytokines TNF‐α, CXC‐10, IL‐12, and IL‐1β in skin lesions. Additionally, immunohistochemical analysis revealed that SRE effectively suppressed M1 macrophage infiltration into the AD lesion. Furthermore, the anti‐inflammatory effect of SRE was evaluated in LPS + INF‐γ induced bone marrow‐derived macrophages (BMDMs) M1 polarization, SRE inhibited the production of TNF‐α, CXC‐10, IL‐12, and IL‐1β and decreased the expression of NLRP3. Additionally, SRE was found to increase p‐AMPKT172, but had no effect on total AMPK expression, after administration of the AMPK inhibitor Compound C, the inhibitory effect of SRE on M1 macrophages was partially reversed. The results indicate that SRE has an inhibitory effect on AD, making it a potential therapeutic agent for this atopic disorder.
Expression of Concern: Garlic (Allium sativum) and mushroom (Agaricus bisporus) powder: Investigation of performance, immune organs and humoural and cellular immune response in broilers
Authors: Noruzi Hadi , Aziz‐Aliabadi Fatemeh
Published: February 2024

Background

Alternatives to antibiotics have been suggested by banning their use in the poultry industry. Garlic and mushroom are two important phytobiotic compounds in poultry nutrition.

Objectives

This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of supplementing diets with garlic and mushroom powder (MP) on growth performance, humoural and cellular immunity, and white blood cell counts of broiler chickens.

Methods

Five hundred and seventy‐six 1‐day‐old male broiler chickens (Ross 308) were assigned to 8 treatments with 6 replications (12 birds per replication) based on a completely randomized design in a factorial arrangement of 4 × 2 with 4 levels of garlic powder (GP; 0.00%, 0.50%, 1.00%, and 1.50%) and two levels of MP (0.00% and 1.00%).

Results

No significant effects of GP and MP on the growth performance and cutaneous basophil hypersensitivity were observed (p > 0.05). According to the regression equation, with increasing levels of GP in the diets, the relative weight of the bursa of Fabricius and thymus increased (p < 0.05). The effect of increasing levels of GP on the Newcastle disease virus (NDV) titre was greater in the absence of MP (p < 0.05). With increasing levels of GP in the diets, the percentages of lymphocytes and heterophils to lymphocytes ratio increased and reduced, respectively (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

This experiment has revealed that increasing the level of GP improved the immune response of broilers without affecting performance. The effect of increasing the level of GP on the NDV titre was more significant in the absence of MP.
Single large enterolith in a cat with chronic inflammatory enteropathy
Authors: Thong Patricia , Wolfenden Guy , Sugiyama Takanori , Neo Jacelyn , Hopper Belinda
Published: February 2024

A 3‐year‐old, male, neutered, domestic shorthair cat with a history of chronic intermittent vomiting, diarrhoea and constipation was referred for abdominal ultrasound of a mid‐abdominal mass identified on palpation. Findings included a densely shadowing structure within the distal ileum with severe local muscularis thickening, mild diffuse small intestinal muscularis thickening, and an enlarged right ileocolic lymph node. Abdominal radiographs showed the structure to be most consistent with an enterolith. Enterolithiasis is a rare condition in companion animals, but common in horses and selected populations of human patients. Enterectomy was performed, and histopathology results of intestinal biopsies were consistent with chronic inflammatory enteropathy. Chemical analysis of the enterolith revealed a predominantly calcium phosphate composition. At the 3‐month follow‐up, the cat had gained weight and showed marked improvement in gastrointestinal signs. Screening for underlying structural intestinal disease may be beneficial in cats diagnosed with enteroliths.
The role of rewilding in mitigating hydrological extremes: State of the evidence
Authors: Harvey Gemma L. , Hartley Adam T. , Henshaw Alexander J. , Khan Zareena , Clarke Stewart J. , Sandom Christopher J. , England Judy , King Sara , Venn Orlando
Published: February 2024

Landscape rewilding has the potential to help mitigate hydrological extremes by allowing natural processes to function. Our systematic review assessed the evidence base for rewilding‐driven mitigation of high and low flows. The review uncovers a lack of research directly addressing rewilding, but highlights research in analogue contexts which can, with caution, indicate the nature of change. There is a lack of before‐after studies that enable deeper examination of temporal trajectories and legacy effects, and a lack of research on the scrub and shrubland habitats common in rewilding projects. Over twice as much evidence is available for high flows compared to low flows, and fewer than one third of studies address high and low flows simultaneously, limiting our understanding of co‐benefits and contrasting effects. Flow magnitude variables are better represented within the literature than flow timing variables, and there is greater emphasis on modeling for high flows, and on direct measurement for low flows. Most high flow studies report a mitigating effect, but with variability in the magnitude of effect, and some exceptions. The nature of change for low flows is more complex and suggests a higher potential for increased low flow risks associated with certain trajectories but is based on a very narrow evidence base. We recommend that future research aims to: capture effects on both high and low flow extremes for a given type of change; analyze both magnitude and timing characteristics of flow extremes; and examine temporal trajectories (before and after data) ideally using a full before‐after‐control‐impact design.

This article is categorized under:

Human Water > Value of Water

Science of Water > Hydrological Processes

Science of Water > Water Extremes

Water and Life > Conservation, Management, and Awareness
Ambiguity, Uncoupling, and Autonomy: The Criminology of Organizational Middle-Management
Authors: Almond Paul
Published: February 2024

The criminological study of corporate crime provides a source of insights into the key role of middle-managers in navigating the tensions between compliance-based and initiative-based approaches to safety. From an initial focus on individual and organizational motivations, the discipline has moved to highlight instead the influence of breakdowns in the connections between individual and organization. Three such grounds of disconnection (problems of ambiguity, structural uncoupling, and autonomy deficits) will be explored, and their implications for understandings of middle-managers’ role will be analyzed.
The Effects of Top Managers’ Organizational Reliability Orientation
Authors: Ramanujam Rangaraj
Published: February 2024

The implicit theories that top managers hold about organizational reliability potentially exert strong effects on how frontline employees approach the task of managing reliability and, hence, on reliability-linked outcomes. Specifically, such implicit theories (“orientation” for short) can be thought of as varying along a continuum ranging from modular at one end to systemic at the other. A more modular orientation leads to a stronger organizational emphasis on strict compliance, whereas a more systemic orientation emphasizes local initiative by enabling employees to go “above and beyond” formal rules when appropriate. I describe the two ends of the continuum and their implications for organizational reliability. I then point out recent trends that warrant a shift toward a systemic orientation across industries and discuss some initial implications for research and practice.
Virtuell abgehaltene DEGUM-zertifizierte Kurse im Kopf-Hals-Bereich – eine sinnvolle Ergänzung zum konventionellen Kursformat?
Authors: Hillebrand Gabriel , Gartmeier Martin , Weiss Nora , Engelmann Luca , Stenzl Anna , Johnson Felix , Hofauer Benedikt
Published: February 2024

Hintergrund

Die Ausbildung im klinischen Ultraschall hat eine hohe Relevanz für die Tätigkeit als HNO-Arzt erlangt. Trotz der hohen Nachfrage nach standardisierten und zertifizierten Ausbildungskursen und vielversprechender Daten zu webbasierten und virtuell durchgeführten Ultraschallfortbildungen aus anderen Fachbereichen existieren bisher keine Untersuchungen zur Machbarkeit von rein virtuell durchgeführten, gemäß der Deutschen Gesellschaft für Ultraschall in der Medizin (DEGUM-)zertifizierten Kopf-Hals-Ultraschallkursen.

Zielsetzung

Ziel der Arbeit ist deshalb die qualitative und semiquantitative Analyse der ersten rein virtuell durchgeführten DEGUM-zertifizierten Kopf-Hals-Ultraschallkurse.

Material und Methoden

Im Jahr 2021 wurden 3 rein virtuelle, webbasierte DEGUM-zertifizierte Kopf-Hals-Ultraschallkurse durchgeführt sowie anschließend mittels Fragebogen inklusive Lernkontrolle qualitativ analysiert.

Ergebnisse

Die rein virtuelle Durchführung von DEGUM-Kopf-Hals-Ultraschallkursen erwies sich als machbare Alternative zum konventionellen Kursformat mit einer hohen Akzeptanz unter den Teilnehmern. Die fehlende praktische Übung durch die Teilnehmer bleibt dabei ein relevanter Kritikpunkt.

Schlussfolgerung

Eine zunehmende Verlagerung von Fortbildungsveranstaltungen in den virtuellen Raum scheint auch im Bereich der Lehre sonographischer Fähigkeiten je nach gegebenen Grundvoraussetzungen sinnvoll, jedoch weist eine vollständig virtuelle Durchführung sonographischer Lehrinhalte Defizite in der Übermittlung und Überprüfbarkeit des praktischen Lernerfolgs auf.
Assisting the implementation of screening for type 1 diabetes by using artificial intelligence on publicly available data
Authors: Teixeira Pedro F. , Battelino Tadej , Carlsson Anneli , Gudbjörnsdottir Soffia , Hannelius Ulf , von Herrath Matthias , Knip Mikael , Korsgren Olle , Elding Larsson Helena , Lindqvist Anton , Ludvigsson Johnny , Lundgren Markus , Nowak Christoph , Pettersson Paul , Pociot Flemming , Sundberg Frida , Åkesson Karin , Lernmark Åke , Forsander Gun
Published: February 2024

The type 1 diabetes community is coalescing around the benefits and advantages of early screening for disease risk. To be accepted by healthcare providers, regulatory authorities and payers, screening programmes need to show that the testing variables allow accurate risk prediction and that individualised risk-informed monitoring plans are established, as well as operational feasibility, cost-effectiveness and acceptance at population level. Artificial intelligence (AI) has the potential to contribute to solving these issues, starting with the identification and stratification of at-risk individuals. ASSET (AI for Sustainable Prevention of Autoimmunity in the Society; www.asset.healthcare) is a public/private consortium that was established to contribute to research around screening for type 1 diabetes and particularly to how AI can drive the implementation of a precision medicine approach to disease prevention. ASSET will additionally focus on issues pertaining to operational implementation of screening. The authors of this article, researchers and clinicians active in the field of type 1 diabetes, met in an open forum to independently debate key issues around screening for type 1 diabetes and to advise ASSET. The potential use of AI in the analysis of longitudinal data from observational cohort studies to inform the design of improved, more individualised screening programmes was also discussed. A key issue was whether AI would allow the research community and industry to capitalise on large publicly available data repositories to design screening programmes that allow the early detection of individuals at high risk and enable clinical evaluation of preventive therapies. Overall, AI has the potential to revolutionise type 1 diabetes screening, in particular to help identify individuals who are at increased risk of disease and aid in the design of appropriate follow-up plans. We hope that this initiative will stimulate further research on this very timely topic.

Graphical Abstract
Serum trough concentration threshold and risk factors of cefoperazone-induced coagulopathy in critically ill patients: A retrospective case-control study
Authors: Wang Qian , Liang Pei , Xu Ying , Yuan Binbin , Lan Chen , Yan Xiaodi , Li Li
Published: February 2024

Purpose

To analyze the risk factors influencing the development of cefoperazone-induced coagulopathy in critically ill patients and determine the threshold of serum trough concentration.

Methods

A retrospective case-control study was conducted in the intensive care unit patients treated with cefoperazone, and it was approved by the Ethical Committee of Drum Tower Hospital affiliated with the Medical School of Nanjing University (NO.2023-158-01). Patients were divided into the normal group and coagulopathy group based on prothrombin time. The clinical characteristics of the two groups were compared using univariate analysis. The serum concentration threshold and influencing factors of cefoperazone-induced coagulopathy in critically ill patients were analyzed using the receiver operating characteristic curve and multivariate logistic regression analysis.

Results

A total of 113 patients were included, and cefoperazone-induced coagulopathy occurred in 39 patients, with an incidence of 34.5%. These patients experienced significant prothrombin time prolongation around day 6 (median) after cefoperazone application. The serum trough concentration threshold of cefoperazone-induced coagulopathy in critically ill patients was 87.765 mg/l. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that the APACHE II score (p = 0.034), prophylactic use of vitamin K1 (p < 0.001), hepatic impairment (p = 0.014), and Cmin ≥ 87.765 mg/l (p = 0.005) were associated with cefoperazone-induced coagulopathy.

Conclusion

Cefoperazone-induced coagulopathy usually occurs on the 6th day of cefoperazone use in critically ill patients. The risk will increase in patients with an APACHE II score > 25, hepatic impairment, and cefoperazone Cmin ≥ 87.765 mg/l. Vitamin K1 is effective in preventing this adverse reaction.
Hypothalamic subunit volumes and relations to violence and psychopathy in male offenders with or without a psychotic disorder
Authors: Bell Christina , Rokicki Jaroslav , Tesli Natalia , Gurholt Tiril P. , Hjell Gabriela , Fischer-Vieler Thomas , Bang Nina , Melle Ingrid , Agartz Ingrid , Andreassen Ole A. , Ringen Petter Andreas , Rasmussen Kirsten , Dahl Hilde , Friestad Christine , Haukvik Unn K.
Published: February 2024

The hypothalamus is key to body homeostasis, including regulating cortisol, testosterone, vasopressin, and oxytocin hormones, modulating aggressive behavior. Animal studies have linked the morphology and function of the hypothalamus to aggression and affiliation, with a subregional pattern reflecting the functional division between the hypothalamic nuclei. We explored the relationship between hypothalamic subunit volumes in violent offenders with (PSY-V) and without (NPV) a psychotic disorder, and the association with psychopathy traits. 3T MRI scans (n = 628, all male 18–70 years) were obtained from PSY-V, n = 38, NPV, n = 20, non-violent psychosis patients (PSY-NV), n = 134, and healthy controls (HC), n = 436. The total hypothalamus volume and its eleven nuclei were delineated into five subunits using Freesurfer v7.3. Psychopathy traits were assessed with Psychopathy Checklist-revised (PCL-R). ANCOVAs and linear regressions were used to analyze associations with subunit volumes. Both groups with a history of violence exhibited smaller anterior–superior subunit volumes than HC (NPV Cohen’s d = 0.56, p = 0.01 and PSY-V d = 0.38, p = 0.01). There were no significant differences between HC and PSY-NV. PCL-R scores were positively associated with the inferior tubular subunit on a trend level (uncorrected p = 0.045, Cohen’s d = 0.04). We found distinct hypothalamic subunit volume reductions in persons with a history of violence independent of concomitant psychotic disorder but not in persons with psychosis alone. The results provide further information about the involvement of the hypothalamus in aggression, which ultimately may lead to the development of targeted treatment for the clinical and societal challenge of aggression and violent behavior.

Graphical abstract
Effects of climate trends and variability on tree health responses in the Black Sea and Mediterranean forests of Türkiye
Authors: Dogan Ciftci Nida , Şahin Ahmet Duran , Yousefpour Rasoul , Christen Andreas
Published: February 2024

To adapt forest ecosystems and forest management to climate change, it is essential to know which forest regions and which tree species are resilient to climate variability and which ones are possibly affected most by past and anticipated future changes. In this contribution, for the main forest regions of Türkiye and six tree species, recent climate variability and trends were quantified and statistically correlated to record tree defoliation and vitality. Climate variables considered are maximum temperature (Tmax), minimum temperature (Tmin), mean temperature (Tmean), and total precipitation (Prcp), which are compared to forest health responses recorded as part of the International Cooperative Programme on Assessment and Monitoring of Air Pollution Effects on Forests (ICP Forests) on 277 plots across forests along the Black Sea and Mediterranean regions. In addition, long-term data on satellite measurements of the normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) were extracted for the same 277 plots for the period 2008–2020. Firstly, 30 years (1991–2020) of reanalysis of climate variables from ECMWF were extracted for all plots; secondly, individual correlations and cross-correlations of climate variables and tree health and vitality were computed for the period 2008–2020 (significance level of 95%) for the four most dominant species from the Black Sea forests (F. orientalis, Q. cerris, P. sylvestris, P. orientalis) and two species from Mediterranean forests (P. brutia and C. libani). Temperature showed a stronger effect on most species than precipitation. Finally, time-lagged correlations were analyzed for seven-time lags (significance level of 95%) to evaluate legacy effect. The analysis revealed that different tree species from the two regions show different responses to climate variables. Species in the Mediterranean region are more resistant to droughts and climatic variations. Legacy effects of defoliation and NDVI have lasted for at least 2 years.
Increased risk of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder in adolescents with high salivary levels of copper, manganese, and zinc
Authors: Robinson D’Artagnan M. , Edwards Karen L. , Willoughby Michael T. , Hamilton Katrina R. , Blair Clancy B. , Granger Douglas A. , Thomas Elizabeth A.
Published: February 2024

Exposure to toxic heavy metals has been associated with the development of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). However, fewer studies have examined the associations between abnormal levels of essential trace metals and ADHD, and none have done so using saliva. We investigated whether salivary metals were associated with ADHD in adolescents aged 12 from the Family Life Project (FLP) using a nested case–control study design that included 110 adolescents who met diagnostic criteria for inattentive (ADHD-I), hyperactive-impulsive (ADHD-H), or combined type ADHD (ADHD-C) (cases) and 173 children who did not (controls). We used inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrophotometry to measure chromium, copper, manganese, and zinc in saliva samples. We employed logistic regression models to examine associations between quartile levels of individual metals and ADHD outcomes by subtype. Salivary copper levels were significantly associated with increased odds of any ADHD diagnosis (OR = 3.31, 95% CI: 1.08–10.12; p = 0.04) and with increased odds of ADHD-C diagnosis (OR = 8.44, 95% CI: 1.58–45.12; p = 0.01). Salivary zinc levels were significantly associated with increased odds of ADHD-C diagnosis (OR = 4.06, 95% CI: 1.21–13.69; p = 0.02). Salivary manganese levels were also significantly associated with increased odds of ADHD-C diagnosis (OR = 5.43, 95% CI: 1.08–27.27, p = 0.04). This is the first study using saliva to assess metal exposure and provide a potential link between salivary levels of copper, manganese, and zinc and ADHD diagnoses in adolescents. Public health interventions focused on metal exposures might reduce ADHD incidence in low-income, minority communities.
Is neighbourhood deprivation in primary school-aged children associated with their mental health and does this association change over 30 months?
Authors: Finning Katie , Haeffner Amy , Patel Sohum , Longdon Bryony , Hayes Rachel , Ukoumunne Obioha C. , Ford Tamsin
Published: February 2024

As both socioeconomic deprivation and the prevalence of childhood mental health difficulties continue to increase, exploring the relationship between them is important to guide policy. We aimed to replicate the finding of a mental health gap that widened with age between those living in the most and least deprived areas among primary school pupils. We used data from 2075 children aged 4–9 years in the South West of England recruited to the STARS (Supporting Teachers and childRen in Schools) trial, which collected teacher- and parent-reported Strength and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) at baseline, 18-month and 30-month follow-up. We fitted multilevel regression models to explore the relationship between Index of Multiple Deprivation (IMD) quintile and SDQ total difficulties score and an algorithm-generated “probable disorder” variable that combined SDQ data from teachers and parents. Teacher- and parent-reported SDQ total difficulties scores indicated worse mental health in children living in more deprived neighbourhoods, which was attenuated by controlling for special educational needs and disabilities but remained significant by parent report, and there was no interaction year group status (age) at baseline. We did not detect an association between probable disorder and IMD although an interaction with time was evident (p = 0.003). Analysis by study wave revealed associations at baseline (odds ratio 1.94, 95% confidence interval 0.97–3.89) and 18 months (1.96, 1.07–3.59) but not 30 months (0.94, 0.54–1.57). These findings augment the existing, highly compelling evidence demonstrating worse mental health in children exposed to socioeconomic deprivation.
Participation of Hepcidins in the Inflammatory Response Triggered by λ-Carrageenin in Gilthead Seabream (Sparus aurata)
Authors: Campos-Sánchez Jose Carlos , Serna-Duque Jhon A. , Alburquerque Carmen , Guardiola Francisco A. , Esteban María Ángeles
Published: February 2024

The role of hepcidins, antimicrobial peptides involved in iron metabolism, immunity, and inflammation, is studied. First, gilthead seabream (Sparus aurata L.) head-kidney leucocytes (HKLs) were incubated with λ-carrageenin to study the expression of hepcidin and iron metabolism-related genes. While the expression of most of the genes studied was upregulated, the expression of ferroportin gene (slc40a) was downregulated. In the second part of the study, seabream specimens were injected intramuscularly with λ-carrageenin or buffer (control). The expression of the same genes was evaluated in the head kidney, liver, and skin at different time points after injection. The expression of Hamp1m, ferritin b, and ferroportin genes (hamp1, fthb, and slc40a) was upregulated in the head kidney of fish from the λ-carrageenin-injected group, while the expression of Hamp2C and Hamp2E genes (hamp2.3 and hamp2.7) was downregulated. In the liver, the expression of hamp1, ferritin a (ftha), slc40a, Hamp2J, and Hamp2D (hamp2.5/6) genes was downregulated in the λ-carrageenin-injected group. In the skin, the expression of hamp1 and (Hamp2A Hamp2C) hamp2.1/3/4 genes was upregulated in the λ-carrageenin-injected group. A bioinformatic analysis was performed to predict the presence of transcription factor binding sites in the promoter region of hepcidins. The primary sequence of hepcidin was conserved among the different mature peptides, although changes in specific amino acid residues were identified. These changes affected the charge, hydrophobicity, and probability of hepcidins being antimicrobial peptides. This study sheds light on the poorly understood roles of hepcidins in fish. The results provide insight into the regulatory mechanisms of inflammation in fish and could contribute to the development of new strategies for treat inflammation in farm animals.

Graphical Abstract
PUCH: eine neuartige Endoribonuklease in der piRNA-Biogenese
Authors: Falk Sebastian , Ketting René
Published: February 2024

Transposons are like parasites within DNA, spreading across genomes. Special proteins called PIWI proteins keep these elements under control with the help of small RNA molecules called piRNAs. While piRNAs were already discovered in Caenorhabditis elegans in the year 2008, it remained elusive how their 5’ end is processed. We have now identified the missing endoribonuclease PUCH, which initiates the piRNA biogenesis in C. elegans.
Evaluating the intake plugging effects on the electrical submersible pump (ESP) operating conditions using nodal analysis
Authors: Iranzi Joseph , Wang Jihoon , Lee Youngsoo , Son Hanam
Published: February 2024

The intake plugging of an electrical submersible pump (ESP) has presented a formidable challenge to conventional ESP wells. Attention to cumulative solid deposition is essential since it intensifies the intake plugging severity and impedes ESP performance. We present a new approach to evaluate the ESP performance degradation during increased intake plugging severity. In particular, we employ the intake plugging factor, rate-derating factor, and affinity law to calculate the new ESP speed at different plugging conditions. We used Schlumberger PIPESIM software to perform nodal analysis of the newly calculated ESP speed. The result was validated using the actual field data and compared to the field cases that reported the intake plugging issue. The nodal analysis showed a steady maximum ESP head with zero rate derating at the shut-in point. The intake plugging factor caused a significant reduction in the ESP operating rate and increased pump intake pressure and annulus liquid level. Based on the existing intake plugging field data, we established the quantitative standard for the normal and abnormal intake plugging factor range. The observed results agreed with the field downhole data recorded during the intake plugging problem. We identified that regulating the ESP speed to the reduced operating rate could minimize unexpected pump stoppage. It is also possible to carefully monitor the intake plugging problem by combining the annulus liquid level, the signature of pump intake pressure, and a deadhead test.
Nitrogen and sulfur-doped biochar supported magnetic CuZnFe2O4 as a sustainable adsorbent for efficient reactive black dye 5 removal from industrial wastewater
Authors: Abdelfatah Ahmed M. , Fawzy Manal , El-Khouly Mohamed E. , Eltaweil Abdelazeem S.
Published: February 2024

The shortage of clean and safe water resources, due to the growing pollution and the high cost of water treatment techniques, has become a real threat. Herein, CuZnFe2O4@N,S-doped biochar (CZF@N,S-BC), a novel magnetic, cleaner, and completely green-based composite, was fabricated using the aqueous extract of Beta vulgaris (sugar beet) leaves for the efficient removal of reactive black dye 5 (RB5) from industrial wastewater discharge. With the aid of numerous techniques, including Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy (XPS), Scanning Electron Spectroscopy (SEM), Vibrating Sample Magnetometer (VSM), and zeta potential analyses, CZF@N,S-BC was well-characterized. The results revealed the successful fabrication of CZF@N,S-BC with good magnetic saturation of 12 emu/g and a highly positively charged surface of 32 mV at pH 2. The removal efficiency of RB5 was reached 96.5% at equilibrium time 60 min, and adsorbent dose of 80 mg. The equilibrium data fitted well with the Freundlich isotherm model, while the adsorption kinetics followed a pseudo-second-order model (PSO), with a maximum adsorption capacity of 276.57 mg/g. The thermodynamics results confirmed the physical interaction between the composite and RB5. Additionally, the composite also demonstrated exceptional reusability, maintaining a removal efficiency of 57.27% even after six consecutive cycles. To evaluate the performance of CZF@N,S-BC composite in a real water matrix, the composite was subjected to remove RB5 from a real wastewater sample obtained from an industrial discharge of a textile dyeing industry. Also, a plausible mechanism of RB5 removal by the composite was intensively discussed using XPS before and after adsorption.
Portable smartphone-based molecular test for rapid detection of Leishmania spp.
Authors: Kobialka Rea Maja , Ceruti Arianna , Roy Madhurima , Roy Sutopa , Chowdhury Rajashree , Ghosh Prakash , Hossain Faria , Weidmann Manfred , Graf Elena , Bueno Alvarez Jesus , Moreno Javier , Truyen Uwe , Mondal Dinesh , Chatterjee Mitali , Abd El Wahed Ahmed
Published: February 2024

Purpose

Leishmaniasis, caused by the parasite of the genus Leishmania, is a neglected tropical disease which is endemic in more than 60 countries. In South-East Asia, Brazil, and East Africa, it mainly occurs as kala-azar (visceral leishmaniasis, VL), and subsequently as post kala-azar dermal leishmaniasis (PKDL) in a smaller portion of cases. As stated per WHO roadmap, accessibility to accurate diagnostic methods is an essential step to achieve elimination. This study aimed to test the accuracy of a portable minoo device, a small battery-driven, multi-use fluorimeter operating with isothermal technology for molecular diagnosis of VL and PKDL.

Methods

Fluorescence data measured by the device within 20 min are reported back to the mobile application (or app) via Bluetooth and onward via the internet to a backend. This allows anonymous analysis and storage of the test data. The test result is immediately returned to the app displaying it to the user.

Results

The limit of detection was 11.2 genome copies (95% CI) as determined by screening a tenfold dilution range of whole Leishmania donovani genomes using isothermal recombinase polymerase amplification (RPA). Pathogens considered for differential diagnosis were tested and no cross-reactivity was observed. For its diagnostic performance, DNA extracted from 170 VL and PKDL cases, comprising peripheral blood samples (VL, n = 96) and skin biopsies (PKDL, n = 74) from India (n = 108) and Bangladesh (n = 62), was screened. Clinical sensitivity and specificity were 88% and 91%, respectively.

Conclusion

Minoo devices can offer a convenient, cheaper alternative to other molecular diagnostics. Its easy handling makes it ideal for use in low-resource settings to identify parasite burden.
Janus Quasi-Solid Electrolyte Membranes with Asymmetric Porous Structure for High-Performance Lithium-Metal Batteries
Authors: Chen Zerui , Zhao Wei , Liu Qian , Xu Yifei , Wang Qinghe , Lin Jinmin , Wu Hao Bin
Published: February 2024

Quasi-solid electrolytes (QSEs) based on nanoporous materials are promising candidates to construct high-performance Li-metal batteries (LMBs). However, simultaneously boosting the ionic conductivity (σ) and lithium-ion transference number (t+) of liquid electrolyte confined in porous matrix remains challenging. Herein, we report a novel Janus MOFLi/MSLi QSEs with asymmetric porous structure to inherit the benefits of both mesoporous and microporous hosts. This Janus QSE composed of mesoporous silica and microporous MOF exhibits a neat Li+ conductivity of 1.5 × 10–4 S cm−1 with t+ of 0.71. A partially de-solvated structure and preference distribution of Li+ near the Lewis base O atoms were depicted by MD simulations. Meanwhile, the nanoporous structure enabled efficient ion flux regulation, promoting the homogenous deposition of Li+. When incorporated in Li||Cu cells, the MOFLi/MSLi QSEs demonstrated a high Coulombic efficiency of 98.1%, surpassing that of liquid electrolytes (96.3%). Additionally, NCM 622||Li batteries equipped with MOFLi/MSLi QSEs exhibited promising rate performance and could operate stably for over 200 cycles at 1 C. These results highlight the potential of Janus MOFLi/MSLi QSEs as promising candidates for next-generation LMBs.
Advances in cofactor immobilization for enhanced continuous-flow biocatalysis
Authors: Reus Bente , Damian Matteo , Mutti Francesco G.
Published: February 2024

The merging of biocatalysis with continuous-flow chemistry opens up new opportunities for sustainable and efficient chemical synthesis. Cofactor-dependent enzymes are essential for various industrially attractive biocatalytic reactions. However, implementing these enzymes and biocatalytic reactions in industry remains challenging due to the inherent cost of cofactors and the requirement for their external supply in significant quantities. The development of efficient, low cost, simple and versatile methods for cofactor immobilization can address this important obstacle for biocatalysis in flow. This review explores recent progress in cofactor immobilization for biocatalysis by analyzing advantages and current limitations of the available methods that comprise covalent tethering, ionic adsorption, physical entrapment, and hybrid variations thereof. Moreover, this review analyzes all these immobilization techniques specifically for their utilization in continuous-flow chemistry and provides a perspective for future work in this area. This review will serve as a guide for steering the field towards more sustainable and economically viable continuous-flow biocatalysis.

Graphical Abstract
Medical student health care: a single center pilot study of utilization and barriers
Authors: Pazzi Carlotta , Farrehi Clara , Capron Maclain , Stillman Michael
Published: February 2024

Accessing routine healthcare is known to be challenging for medical students and previous studies have explored the utilization of mental health and primary medical care services in this population. This single-institution study investigated not only usage of primary medical and mental health care among medical students, but also of vision and dental care services. Additionally, the study examined perceived barriers to healthcare access. Analysis of our 38-item questionnaire revealed that fewer participants sought vision and dental care after starting medical school than before enrolling and that lack of time was the predominant barrier to accessing health care services. Many respondents reported that their mental health condition had worsened during medical school, and among respondents with mental health conditions, 39.1% had faced financial barriers to receiving appropriate care. Protecting time for primary care appointments, subsidizing medical insurance, and creating student-specific clinics were frequently suggested by survey participants to improve access to care for this population. These responses suggest the need for further investigation into financial barriers to care experienced by medical students.
“Europe" in the Middle Ages
Authors: Oschema Klaus
Published: February 2024

From the nineteenth century onwards, historians described the Middle Ages as the 'cradle' of the nation state-then, after World War II, they increasingly identified the period as the 'cradle' of Europe. A close look at the sources demonstrates that both interpretations are misleading: while 'Europe' was not a rare word, its use simply does not follow modern expectations. This volume contrasts modern historians' constructions of 'Europe in the Middle Ages' with a fresh analysis of the medieval sources and discourses. The results force us to recognize that medieval ideas of ordering the world differ from modern expectations, thereby inviting us to reflect upon the use and limits of history in contemporary political discourse.
Hommes de lettres et révolution scientifique
Authors: Rabinovitch Oded
Published: February 2024

Au contraire d’autres mouvements équivalents, lemouvement scientifique né dans l’Europe du xviie siècle s’inscrivit dans la durée au lieu de s'essouffler au bout de quelques générations. Afin de comprendre cette persistance, cet article s’appuie sur le cas de la France au temps de Louis XIV (r. 1643-1715). Il soutient que les hommes de lettres ont joué un rôle crucial dans la légitimation du mouvement scientifique naissant. Ces hommes de lettres, qui jouissaient d’une affinité sociale, intellectuelle et esthétique avec la « nouvelle science », tissèrent le récit du progrès scientifique en mettant en avant l’idée d’une rupture radicale avec le passé. Défenseurs des idées modernes ou des modèles classiques, ils diffusèrent ce récit au sein de l'élite culturelle, mobilisant penseurs, découvertes et instruments scientifiques de leur époque à travers des débats variés. Ce faisant, ils forgèrent le récit d'une « révolution scientifique », qui exerça une profonde influence sur l’histoire sociale et culturelle de la science moderne.
Telematics combined actuarial neural networks for cross-sectional and longitudinal claim count data
Authors: Duval Francis , Boucher Jean-Philippe , Pigeon Mathieu
Published: February 2024

We present novel cross-sectional and longitudinal claim count models for vehicle insurance built upon the combinedd actuarial neural network (CANN) framework proposed by Wüthrich and Merz. The CANN approach combines a classical actuarial model, such as a generalized linear model, with a neural network. This blending of models results in a two-component model comprising a classical regression model and a neural network part. The CANN model leverages the strengths of both components, providing a solid foundation and interpretability from the classical model while harnessing the flexibility and capacity to capture intricate relationships and interactions offered by the neural network. In our proposed models, we use well-known log-linear claim count regression models for the classical regression part and a multilayer perceptron (MLP) for the neural network part. The MLP part is used to process telematics car driving data given as a vector characterizing the driving behavior of each insured driver. In addition to the Poisson and negative binomial distributions for cross-sectional data, we propose a procedure for training our CANN model with a multivariate negative binomial specification. By doing so, we introduce a longitudinal model that accounts for the dependence between contracts from the same insured. Our results reveal that the CANN models exhibit superior performance compared to log-linear models that rely on manually engineered telematics features.
Evaluation of intravenous amoxicillin-clavulanate use in two Canadian hospitals
Authors: Wong Maggie , Malhotra Sangita , Afra Kevin
Published: February 2024

We describe our experience with intravenous amoxicillin-clavulanate, which is new to the Canadian market. The majority of patients were successfully de-escalated from piperacillin-tazobactam or a carbapenem for respiratory infections or skin and soft tissue infections. Intravenous amoxicillin-clavulanate provides a good alternative in an era of rising Pseudomonas aeruginosa resistance.