bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Population‐level impact of expanding PrEP coverage by offering long‐acting injectable PrEP to MSM in three high‐resource settings: a model comparison analysis
Authors: Stansfield Sarah E. , Heitner Jesse , Mitchell Kate M. , Doyle Carla M. , Milwid Rachael M. , Moore Mia , Donnell Deborah J. , Hanscom Brett , Xia Yiqing , Maheu‐Giroux Mathieu , Vijver David van de , Wang Haoyi , Barnabas Ruanne , Boily Marie‐Claude , Dimitrov Dobromir T.
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Long‐acting injectable cabotegravir (CAB‐LA) demonstrated superiority to daily tenofovir disoproxil fumarate/emtricitabine (TDF/FTC) for HIV pre‐exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) in the HPTN 083/084 trials. We compared the potential impact of expanding PrEP coverage by offering CAB‐LA to men who have sex with men (MSM) in Atlanta (US), Montreal (Canada) and the Netherlands, settings with different HIV epidemics.

Methods

Three risk‐stratified HIV transmission models were independently parameterized and calibrated to local data. In Atlanta, Montreal and the Netherlands, the models, respectively, estimated mean TDF/FTC coverage starting at 29%, 7% and 4% in 2022, and projected HIV incidence per 100 person‐years (PY), respectively, decreasing from 2.06 to 1.62, 0.08 to 0.03 and 0.07 to 0.001 by 2042. Expansion of PrEP coverage was simulated by recruiting new CAB‐LA users and by switching different proportions of TDF/FTC users to CAB‐LA. Population effectiveness and efficiency of PrEP expansions were evaluated over 20 years in comparison to baseline scenarios with TDF/FTC only.

Results

Increasing PrEP coverage by 11 percentage points (pp) from 29% to 40% by 2032 was expected to avert a median 36% of new HIV acquisitions in Atlanta. Substantially larger increases (by 33 or 26 pp) in PrEP coverage (to 40% or 30%) were needed to achieve comparable reductions in Montreal and the Netherlands, respectively. A median 17 additional PYs on PrEP were needed to prevent one acquisition in Atlanta with 40% PrEP coverage, compared to 1000+ in Montreal and 4000+ in the Netherlands. Reaching 50% PrEP coverage by 2032 by recruiting CAB‐LA users among PrEP‐eligible MSM could avert >45% of new HIV acquisitions in all settings. Achieving targeted coverage 5 years earlier increased the impact by 5–10 pp. In the Atlanta model, PrEP expansions achieving 40% and 50% coverage reduced differences in PrEP access between PrEP‐indicated White and Black MSM from 23 to 9 pp and 4 pp, respectively.

Conclusions

Achieving high PrEP coverage by offering CAB‐LA can impact the HIV epidemic substantially if rolled out without delays. These PrEP expansions may be efficient in settings with high HIV incidence (like Atlanta) but not in settings with low HIV incidence (like Montreal and the Netherlands).
Improving functional properties of rice protein isolates by hydrolysis using alcalase enzyme and assessing bioactivities of hydrolysates
Authors: Issac Kavitha Susan , Banerjee Shubha , Jamdar Sahayog N.
Published: July 2023

Background

Developing value‐added products from rice grains is becoming increasingly significant to enhance productivity from excess rice grains. Therefore, the objective of this study was to improve the functional properties of rice protein from four rice varieties, namely, RRF‐127, RRF‐105, Swarna, and Protezin by enzymatic hydrolysis, and also to evaluate bioactivities like antioxidant, ACE, and DPP‐IV inhibitory activities of the hydrolysates.

Results

The alcalase hydrolysis increased protein solubility to >80% in the pH range of 4–10. The foaming capacity and stability of rice protein hydrolysates (RPHs) improved with the increase in pH. The hydrolysis significantly improved the emulsification activity index (EAI) in the pH range of 5–9. The hydrolysates showed antioxidant activity, namely, ABTS•+radical scavenging, reducing power, and metal ion chelation. RRF‐105 was found to possess the most potent antioxidant capacity among the hydrolysates. RPH could alleviate oxidative damage in erythrocytes, and their protective effects were concentration‐dependent. The hydrolysates had stronger inhibition of ACE and DPP‐IV enzymes. Protezin exhibited the highest ACE inhibition (63%), while Swarna demonstrated the most effective DPP‐IV inhibition (66%).

Conclusion

Hydrolysis with alcalase improved the functional and bioactive properties of rice proteins, indicating that RPH could serve as a source of bioactive peptides or as a functional ingredient with potential properties.
An integrated strategy by absorbed component characterization, pharmacokinetics, and activity evaluation for identification of potential nephroprotective substances in Zhu‐Ling decoction
Authors: Shu Zhi‐heng , Fan Cai‐lian , Wei Hong‐yan , Li Zi‐ting , Norimoto Hisayoshi , Tang Xi‐yang , Yao Zhi‐hong , Yao Xin‐sheng , Dai Yi
Published: July 2023

An efficient strategy for the identification of potential nephroprotective substances in Zhu‐Ling decoction has been established with the integration of absorbed components characterization, pharmacokinetics, and activity evaluation. A qualitative method was developed to characterize the chemical constituents absorbed components in vivo of Zhu‐Ling decoction by using ultra‐performance liquid chromatography‐quadrupole‐time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry. A quantitative method was established and validated for the simultaneous determination of eight compounds in rat plasma by using ultra‐performance liquid chromatography‐triple quadruple tandem mass spectrometry. Finally, the nephroprotective activities of absorbed components with high exposure were assessed by cell survival rate, superoxide dismutase, and malondialdehyde activities in hydrogen peroxide–induced Vero cells. As a result, 111 compounds in Zhu‐Ling decoction and 36 absorbed components were identified in rat plasma and urine, and poricoic acid A, poricoic acid B, alisol A, 16‐oxo‐alisol A, and dehydro‐tumulosic acid had high exposure levels in rat plasma. Finally, poricoic acid B, poricoic acid A, 16‐oxo‐alisol A, and dehydro‐tumulosic acid showed remarkable nephroprotective activity against Vero cells damage induced by hydrogen peroxide. Besides, superoxide dismutase and malondialdehyde activities were obviously regulated in hydrogen peroxide–induced Vero cells by treatment with the four compounds mentioned above. Therefore, these four compounds were considered to be effective substances of Zhu‐Ling decoction due to their relatively high exposure in vivo and biological activity. This study provided a chemical basis for the action mechanism of Zhu‐Ling decoction in the treatment of chronic kidney diseases.
Dietary Eicosapentaenoic Acid Containing Phosphoethanolamine Plasmalogens Remodels the Lipidome of White Adipose Tissue and Suppresses High‐Fat Diet Induced Obesity in Mice
Authors: Ding Lin , Yang Jinyue , Guo Haoran , Cong Peixu , Xu Jie , Xue Changhu , Mao Xiangzhao , Zhang Tiantian , Wang Yuming
Published: July 2023

Scope

Dietary supplementation of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA)/eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) can alter the lipidome profiles of adipocytes, thereby counteract obesity. DHA/EPA in the form of phospholipids demonstrates higher bioavailability than triglyceride or ethyl ester (EE), but their effects on the lipidome and metabolic changes during obesity are still unknown.

Methods and results

High‐fat diet‐induced obese mice are treated with different molecular forms of EPA, and EPA supplemented as phosphoethanolamine plasmalogens (PlsEtn) has a superior effect on reducing fat mass accumulation than phosphatidylcholine (PC) or EE. The lipidomics analysis indicates that EPA in form of PlsEtn but not PC or EE significantly decreases total PC and sphingomyelin content in white adipose tissue (WAT). Some specific polyunsaturated fatty acid ‐containing PCs and ether phospholipids are increased in EPA‐PlsEtn‐fed mice, which may attribute to the upregulation of unsaturated fatty acid biosynthesis and fatty acid elongation reactions in WAT. In addition, the expression of genes related to fatty acid catabolism is also promoted by EPA‐PlsEtn supplementation, which may cause the decreased content of saturated and monounsaturated fatty acid‐containing PCs.

Conclusions

EPA‐PlsEtn supplementation is demonstrated to remodel lipidome and regulate the fatty acid metabolic process in WAT, indicating it may serve as a new strategy for obesity treatment in the future.
Construction and dosimetric characterization of a motorized scanning‐slit system for electron FLASH experiments
Authors: Oesterle Roxane , Bailat Claude , Buhlmann Damien , Bochud Francois , Grilj Veljko
Published: July 2023

Background

Beam scanning is a useful technique for the treatment of large tumors when the primary beam size is limited, which is the case with radiation beams used in FLASH radiotherapy.

Purpose

To optimize beam scanning as a dose delivery method for FLASH radiotherapy, it is necessary to first understand the effects of beam scanning on the FLASH effect. To do so, biological FLASH experiments need to be done using defined beam parameters with beam scanning and compared to the situation without beam scanning. In this regard, we propose implementation of a simple slit scanning system with an electron FLASH beam to obtain a scanned radiation field that closely resembles a static field.

Methods

A pulsed electron linear accelerator (linac) was used in combination with a scanning slit system in order to simulate a scanned electron beam. Three configurations that produced homogeneous lateral profiles and high enough doses per pulse for FLASH experiments were established. The optimal scanning parameters were found for each configuration by examining the flatness of the obtained lateral dose profiles. Using the optimal scanning parameters, the scanned FLASH beams were dosimetrically characterized and compared to non‐scanned open field beam.

Results

A final electron FLASH beam scanning configuration was found for a 1 mm wide slit at a distance of 350 mm from the linac and a 2 mm wide slit at distances of 350 and 490 mm from the linac. The lateral profiles for these final configurations were found to have a homogeneity that is comparable to the open field profiles. The percentage depth dose (PDD) values found for these final configurations closely matched (by a few percentage) the PDD of the open field beam.

Conclusions

Three electron FLASH beam scanning configurations achieved by the motorized slit system were found to produce radiation fields similar to a non‐scanned open field electron beam. These final configurations can therefore be used in future biological FLASH experiments to compare to non‐scanned beam experiments in order to optimize beam scanning as a technique permitting the treatment of larger tumors with FLASH radiotherapy.
Children's Oncology Group 2023 blueprint for research: Adolescent and young adult oncology
Authors: Roth Michael E. , Grimes Allison C. , Reed Damon R. , Weiss Aaron R. , Mittal Nupur , Parsons Susan K. , Freyer David R. ,   COG Adolescent and Young Adult Oncology Discipline Committee
Published: July 2023

Over the past few decades, 5‐year cancer survival has steadily improved for all adolescents and young adults (AYA, 15–39 years at diagnosis) combined. While encouraging, this progress simultaneously highlights a compelling need for improving survival in higher risk AYA subsets and for addressing health outcomes and health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) among long‐term survivors. The Children's Oncology Group (COG), in collaboration with the National Cancer Institute (NCI) and the adult network groups within the NCI National Clinical Trials Network (NCTN), has developed a large and growing portfolio of therapeutic AYA cancer clinical trials to identify optimal treatment approaches for common AYA cancers. Additional initiatives, led by the COG AYA Oncology Discipline Committee for increasing collaboration between the COG and the adult network groups, optimizing AYA clinical trial enrollment, and standardizing the assessment of HRQoL, have been highly successful to date. Further, NCTN‐wide collaborations are currently underway focused on improving survival for AYA malignancies with poor prognosis and, through development of supportive care and care delivery trials, reducing the short‐ and long‐term toxicity caused by cancer treatment. Leveraging the research infrastructure within the NCTN and the NCI Community Oncology Research Program, the COG will continue to champion meaningful advancements in health and survival for AYAs with cancer.
Mesenchymal stem cell transplantation as a potential therapy for refractory lupus nephritis: A systematic review
Authors: Parlindungan Faisal , Damanik Johanda , Araminta Abirianty P. , Soetedjo Ariel V. , Hidayat Rudy , Kusumo Wibowo Suryo A. , Arianne Anna , Sumariyono Sumariyono
Published: July 2023

Background

Lupus nephritis (LN) results in high morbidity and mortality in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus. Refractory cases of standard immunosuppressive therapy have been recorded. Mesenchymal stem cell transplantation (MSCT) shows potential use in autoimmune diseases. We aim to review MSCT in the treatment of refractory LN.

Methods

Published articles were systematically extracted from the databases in May 2022. The quality of the studies was assessed using the Oxford Centre for Evidence‐Based Medicine critical appraisal checklist.

Results

Four studies were included. All studies recruit severe or refractory LN patients and show significant improvement in post‐MSCT 24‐h proteinuria. However, the improvement of renal function after MSCT is inconsistent between studies after a 1‐month follow‐up, with one study showing deterioration of the estimated glomerular filtration rate after 3 months and one study showing an increase in serum creatinine at 6 and 9 months. Moreover, all studies show improvement in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity Index scores after MSCT, while two studies show that a decrease in anti‐double‐stranded DNA (anti‐dsDNA) levels after MSCT is only evident for up to 1‐month period.

Conclusions

MSCT can be effective, especially in severe or refractory LN. More randomized‐controlled trials are needed to support this evidence.
Predicting fatigue from heart rate signatures using functional logistic regression
Authors: Ries Daniel , Gabriel Huerta J.
Published: July 2023

Physical fatigue can have adverse effects on humans in extreme environments. Therefore, being able to predict fatigue using easy to measure metrics such as heart rate (HR) signatures has potential to have an impact in real‐life scenarios. We apply a functional logistic regression model that uses HR signatures to predict physical fatigue, where physical fatigue is defined in a data‐driven manner. Data were collected using commercially available wearable devices on 47 participants hiking the 20.7‐mile Grand Canyon rim‐to‐rim trail in a single day. Fitted model provides good predictions and interpretable parameters for real‐life application.
An integral representation for inverse moments of multivariate random variables
Authors: Shibu D. S. , Irshad M. R. , Nadarajah Saralees
Published: July 2023

In this note, we derive an integral representation for inverse moments of positive integer valued multivariate random variables, generalizing a result in Shibu et al. Examples are provided to illustrate the result.
Predicting Apnea‐Hypopnea Index in Patients with Obstructive Sleep Apnea Using Unsegmented ECG‐Signal‐Based Algorithms
Authors: Chen Jeng‐Wen , Wang Cheng‐Yi , Lin Chun‐Cheng , Hsu Mao‐Huan , Yeh Cheng‐Yu , Hwang Shaw‐Hwa
Published: July 2023

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a common sleep disorder and is diagnosed by polysomnography (PSG) as the gold standard. However, PSG is a time‐consuming and costly test, and patients have to endure long waits before receiving a PSG test in a hospital. In view of this, portable and wearable screening tools for OSA prediction have been developed recently as a low‐cost and easy‐to‐use method. In this paper, an OSA detection model, based on regression approach, using unsegmented electrocardiography (ECG) signals is developed to directly estimate the apnea‐hypopnea index (AHI) value, which is the first report in the literature. In this manner, this work can provide more details of OSA assessment to users and doctors. © 2023 Institute of Electrical Engineer of Japan and Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Songbird nests on the ground as islands of diversity of ptyctimous mites (Acari: Oribatida) in the primeval Białowieża Forest (Poland)
Authors: Niedbała Wojciech , Maziarz Marta , Hebda Grzegorz , Rutkowski Tomasz , Napierała Agnieszka , Kurek Przemysław , Zacharyasiewicz Michał , Broughton Richard K. , Błoszyk Jerzy
Published: July 2023

Due to specific microclimatic conditions and accumulation of organic matter, bird nests are microhabitats that are often inhabited by various invertebrates, including mites (Acari). We tested whether nests of the ground-nesting passerine Phylloscopus sibilatrix(Bechstein) (Passeriformes: Phylloscopidae) [wood warbler] were associated with an increased local diversity of ptyctimous mites (Acari: Oribatida) on the forest floor in the Białowieża National Park, East Poland. In 2019–2020, we analysed 150 warbler nests shortly after they had been vacated by the birds, and additionally we sampled mites in leaf litter at 1 and 6 m distances from 21 of the collected nests. We found on average more mite species in nests sampled in 2020 than in nests sampled in 2019. Although the species composition largely overlapped between bird nests and the litter, bird nests contained a greater average number of mite species than litter samples, including species found only –Microtritia minima(Berlese) andPhthiracarus crenophilusWillmann – or mostly –Euphthiracarus cribrarius(Berlese) andPhthiracarus globosus(C.L. Koch) – in bird nests. The results suggest that the presence of bird nests may increase the local diversity of the invertebrate species assemblage.
ABC of Online Consumer Disclosure Duties: Improving Transparency and Legal Certainty in Europe
Authors: Luzak J. , Wulf A. J. , Seizov O. , Loos M. B. M. , Junuzović M.
Published: July 2023

Following a series of complimentary studies assessing the current application of the principle of transparency of consumer information in Croatia, Germany, Poland, the Netherlands, and the UK, this paper presents research findings on how to improve its effectiveness. Documented differences in national laws and practice indicate the need for a more harmonised approach on the level of the European Union. This demand also arises from the interviews the research team has conducted with various national stakeholders. Whilst the legislative transparency requirements could remain general, e.g., a duty for traders to provide consumer information in “plain and intelligible language,” traders, consumers, and enforcement authorities all require more legal certainty as to what amounts to compliance with these requirements. Based on the stakeholders’ suggestions, an interdisciplinary literature review, findings from doctrinal, comparative legal research, and a conducted quantitative study, the paper recommends empirically motivated, multimodal guidelines to implement textual, contextual, and technical measures.
Tape of the truth: Ta2O5 nanopore array formed under broad potential range and SERS potential after silver sputtering
Authors: Krajczewski Jan , Michałowska Aleksandra , Ambroziak Robert
Published: July 2023

The deposition of a plasmonic metal layer on a nanostructured oxide surface is one of the important methods of preparing a platform for surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) measurements. In this contribution, we describe the formation of SERS substrates by the deposition of a silver layer on ordered a Ta2O5 nanopore array. The influence of various experimental anodization process parameters on the morphology of a Ta2O5 nanopore array was carefully studied. It was found that the formation of a Ta2O5 nanopore array is possible under a broad potential range (15–50 V) in a highly acidic solution containing F− ions. In some cases, the nanopore array structures were covered by an outer layer rich in F− and SO42− ions, which could easily be removed using adhesive tape or by sonication. The deposition of an Ag layer led to SERS activity. The optimal Ag layer thickness was specified based on SEM and DRS measurements. The SERS substrates formed exhibited high point-to-point, sample-to-sample and time durability.
A Cross-Cultural Conceptual Comparison of Behavioral Activation and Ikigai
Authors: Rochelle Nathania Seanette , Hoyer Jürgen
Published: July 2023

Cultural bridging may alleviate and catalyze the therapeutic process and help to match therapeutic interventions and patient preferences. In this article, we propose to enhance Western-originated prevention and treatment of depression (behavioral activation) with an Eastern-originated cultural concept of the purpose of living (ikigai).

Behavioral activation (BA) is an effective standard method (within cognitive-behavior therapy) to treat depression, whereas ikigai is a Japanese life philosophy attitude. Both approaches share the fundamental idea that the reflection of personal values guides the individual’s everyday decisions. In the present narrative review, we try to explain and systematically compare both approaches to explore the possibilities of their meaningful integration.

While the literature underscored the striking similarity between the fundamental ideas of both concepts, the main difference is that ikigai, as a traditional, non-psychotherapeutic approach, refers more to intuition and metaphorical heuristics. We introduce when and how the practice of ikigai could enhance behavioral activation interventions in psychotherapy and its transfer into everyday life.
Postprandial plasma GLP-1 levels are elevated in individuals with postprandial hypoglycaemia following Roux-en-Y gastric bypass – a systematic review
Authors: Jalleh Ryan Joseph , Umapathysivam Mahesh Michael , Plummer Mark Philip , Deane Adam , Jones Karen Louise , Horowitz Michael
Published: July 2023

Background and aims: Bariatric surgery is the most effective treatment in individuals with obesity to achieve remission of type 2 diabetes. Post-bariatric surgery hypoglycaemia occurs frequently, and management remains suboptimal, because of a poor understanding of the underlying pathophysiology. The glucoregulatory hormone responses to nutrients in individuals with and without post-bariatric surgery hypoglycaemia have not been systematically examined. Materials and methods: The study protocol was prospectively registered with PROSPERO. PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science and the Cochrane databases were searched for publications between January 1990 and November 2021 using MeSH terms related to post-bariatric surgery hypoglycaemia. Studies were included if they evaluated individuals with post-bariatric surgery hypoglycaemia and included measurements of plasma glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP), insulin, C-peptide and/or glucagon concentrations following an ingested nutrient load. Glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) was also evaluated. A random-effects meta-analysis was performed, and Hedges’ g (standardised mean difference) and 95% confidence intervals were reported for all outcomes where sufficient studies were available. The τ2 estimate and I2 statistic were used as tests for heterogeneity and a funnel plot with the Egger regression-based test was used to evaluate for publication bias. Results: From 377 identified publications, 12 were included in the analysis. In all 12 studies, the type of bariatric surgery was Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB). Comparing individuals with and without post-bariatric surgery hypoglycaemia following an ingested nutrient load, the standardised mean difference in peak GLP-1 was 0.57 (95% CI, 0.32, 0.82), peak GIP 0.05 (-0.26, 0.36), peak insulin 0.84 (0.44, 1.23), peak C-peptide 0.69 (0.28, 1.1) and peak glucagon 0.05 (-0.26, 0.36). HbA1c was less in individuals with hypoglycaemia − 0.40 (-0.67, -0.12). There was no evidence of substantial heterogeneity in any outcome except for peak insulin: τ2 = 0.2, I2 = 54.3. No publication bias was evident. Conclusion: Following RYGB, postprandial peak plasma GLP-1, insulin and C-peptide concentrations are greater in individuals with post-bariatric surgery hypoglycaemia, while HbA1c is less. These observations support the concept that antagonism of GLP-1 would prove beneficial in the management of individuals with hypoglycaemia following RYGB.

PROSPERO Registration Number: CRD42021287515.
All Things Considered, Should Egalitarian Movements Accept Philanthropic Funding?
Authors: McCrea Niamh
Published: July 2023

Philanthropy is a contentious and often polarising topic within egalitarian social movements. There are good reasons for this. Philanthropy is reliant on the inequalities inherent in the capitalist system, is fundamentally at odds with democratic relationships, and can moderate or control the activities of recipients. This article therefore starts from the premise that philanthropy violates egalitarian ideals in very significant ways. However, it goes on to suggest that, absent a ruptural change that would drastically weaken the bases of philanthropic wealth, there is a strategic and contingent case for its selective use so long as it pushes existing configurations of power in more egalitarian directions. In making this case, the article draws primarily on the work of Wright (2010) but also on recent developments in the political theory of philanthropy. It calls for a critical literacy around philanthropy that combines an openness to experimentation with a clear-eyed sense of its significant risks. In this respect, it outlines specific conditions and strategies that movements should adopt if they pursue or accept philanthropic funding. Firstly, movements must deliberately articulate and actively defend their transformative vision, clarifying in the process the tactical place of philanthropy within this. Secondly, they must resist funder conditionalities, and preserve egalitarian modes of organising in the face of practices which undermine participatory ideals and threaten relations of care and solidarity. The article’s chief contribution is to integrate normative insights with lessons from the sociological literature on movement-philanthropy relations, for the sake of systematically untangling a live and troublesome issue within the praxis of radical movements.
Bumblebees and butterflies in green structure elements in Malmö, Sweden
Authors: Haaland Christine
Published: July 2023

Within the BiodiverCity project in Malmö (Sweden), green structure elements were implemented aiming to support biodiversity and enhancing amenity in denser parts of the city. In this study, bumblebee and butterfly abundances and species richness were studied in 20 green structure elements in three areas in Malmö. The investigated green structure elements consisted of objects established within the BiodiverCity project and other green structure elements in their surroundings (e.g. road verges, lawns and flowerbeds). Observed bumblebee and butterfly abundances and species richness was generally low. In total, 528 bumblebees of eight species were recorded, with 97% of all bumblebees belonging to two species, Bombus lapidarius and B. terrestris/lucorum. A total of 154 butterflies from 10 species were detected, most commonly Pieris species. There were no significant differences in mean individual or species numbers (bumblebees and butterflies) between green structure elements designed to support biodiversity and conventional ones. Bumblebee species richness and abundance were positively correlated with mean cover of flowering vegetation and mean number of flowering plant species. Butterfly species richness and abundance were positively correlated with mean number of flowering plant species and size of the green structure. Observations of flower visits showed that the two groups of insects had different preferences. The results of this study show that enhancing bumblebee and butterfly diversity and abundances in densely built city areas can be challenging. To support bumblebees and butterflies more successfully, the habitat requirements of these insect groups need to be better considered from the beginning in the design of green structure elements.
Systematical redesign method for topology optimized results using 3D-printing
Authors: Al-Zuhairi Ali , Nouzille Dorian , Teutsch Roman
Published: July 2023

3D-Printing enables designers to create parts with higher geometric complexity and gives them the opportunity to use new design methods such as topology optimization for industrial purpose. Topology optimization (TO) uses algorithms based on finite elements to provide the best material distribution for a given design space and defined boundary conditions. However, raw TO results are usually inconsistent and non-continuous structures that need to be redesigned. Since the smoothing tools and algorithms available on TO software programs are not covering all manufacturing aspects, this paper presents a strategy for interpreting and redesigning the optimized topology using five defined sub-structure elements. Several TO structures from the literature have been studied in order to choose those sub-structure elements that can fully describe any TO result. The approach called KS2 (Knoten-Stab-Schubfeld) ensures an efficient workflow. Three different reconstruction methods are considered in this work, from a manual to a fully automated one. The advantages and drawbacks of each method are discussed, and a systematic procedure is suggested, that can be applied on any optimized structure. Finally, the three variations were produced by means of 3d printing and compared with each other.
What is the art of biosecurity?
Authors: Elgabry Mariam
Published: July 2023

Biosecurity is essential for safeguarding biological materials and technologies, but traditional approaches often lack the excitement and engagement needed for widespread adoption. This question seeks to explore innovative strategies that go beyond conventional methods, incorporating interdisciplinary collaboration, creative activism, and groundbreaking design to spark biosecurity socialization.
Secondary choral students’ and preservice music educators’ perceptions of a service-learning experience in the United States: An action research study
Authors: Mercado Emily M. , Bailey Erin N. , Davies Katie Houston
Published: July 2023

The purpose of this service-learning action research study was to develop and investigate after-school individualised vocal lessons for secondary students aged 14–18 years (n = 15) taught by preservice music educators (PMEs) (n = 12) in the United States. In service learning, all parties should benefit from the experience while addressing curricular and community needs. Therefore, our intentions were to: (a) improve secondary student preparedness for solo experiences, (b) provide an authentic teaching experience to improve the quality of instruction given by PMEs, and (c) develop a mutually beneficial and collaborative service-learning experience. The following themes emerged from the data: (a) perceptions of teaching disposition – such as confidence, interpersonal skills and enthusiasm; (b) perceptions of teaching skills – such as student engagement, questioning techniques and responsive teaching; and (c) perceptions of pedagogical content knowledge – such as vocal anatomy, physiology and pedagogy.
Evaluating ENSO's Spatiotemporal Complexity in the CWB CFS 1‐Tiered Model Hindcasts
Authors: Kim Ji‐Won , Chang Ting‐Huai , Lee Ching‐Teng , Yu Jin‐Yi
Published: July 2023

Using hindcasts produced by a coupled climate model, this study evaluates whether the model can forecast the observed spatiotemporal complexity in the El Niño−Southern Oscillation (ENSO) during the period 1982−2011: the eastern Pacific (EP), central Pacific‐I (CP‐I) and ‐II (CP‐II) types of El Niño, and the multi‐year evolution events of El Niño occurred in 1986–1988 (i.e., 1986/87/88 El Niño) and La Niña occurred in 1998–2000 (i.e., 1998/99/00 La Niña). With regard to the spatial complexity, it is found that the CP‐I type of El Niño is the easiest to hindcast, the CP‐II is second, and the EP is most difficult to hindcast as its amplitude is significantly underestimated in the model used here. The model deficiency in hindcasting the EP El Niño is related to a warm bias in climatological sea surface temperatures (SSTs) in the tropical eastern Pacific. This warm bias is related to model biases in the strengths of the Pacific Walker circulation and South Pacific high, both of which are notably weaker than observed. As for the temporal complexity, the model successfully hindcasts the multi‐year evolution of the 1998/99/00 La Niña but fails to accurately hindcast the 1986/87/88 El Niño. This contrasting model performance in hindcasting multi‐year events is found to be related to a cold bias in climatological SSTs in the tropical central Pacific. This cold bias result enables the model La Niña, but not El Niño, to activate intrabasin tropical‒subtropical interactions associated with the Pacific Meridional Mode that produce the multi‐year evolution pattern.
Assessing Weathering, Pedogenesis, and Silt Generation in Granitoid‐Hosted Soils From Contrasting Hydroclimates
Authors: Bonar Alicia L. , Soreghan Gerilyn S. , Elwood Madden Megan E.
Published: July 2023

The origin and production of silt are key factors in the formation of loess deposits. Although many processes can potentially lead to silt generation, few are known to produce silt in the volumes and particle‐size modes required to form geologically significant loess deposits. Here, we investigate the hypothesis that soil‐associated weathering in tropical and Mediterranean climates can generate abundant in situ silt, and therefore contribute significantly to loess formation throughout geologic time. We utilize granulometric and geochemical data from two granitoid‐hosted soils formed in Puerto Rico (hot‐humid climate) and Southern California (hot‐arid climate) to discern whether the silt + clay fraction (<62.5 μm) is generated from bedrock weathering (autochthonous) or sourced from eolian contributions (allochthonous). Our study demonstrates that the PR soil contains abundant (up to 72%) silt‐ and clay‐sized particles compared to the Southern California soil (<6%). However, the silt fraction of the PR soil is at least partially derived from eolian inputs, and the silt fraction of the Southern California soil is geochemically indistinguishable from allochthonous dust sources. Furthermore, while intense chemical weathering in PR can produce abundant fines, the majority are significantly finer (average mode ∼15 μm) than the modes of most “typical” loess deposits (modes more than 20–30 μm). In contrast, weathering in the Southern California soil produces volumetrically sparse silt. Hence, weathering processes within these two profiles, representing hot‐humid and hot‐dry climates, appear to be ineffectual for producing the volume and size distributions of silt needed to generate significant loess deposits.
Prediction of Radiation Belts Electron Fluxes at a Low Earth Orbit Using Neural Networks With PROBA‐V/EPT Data
Authors: Botek Edith , Pierrard Viviane , Winant Alexandre
Published: July 2023

We introduce for the first time the PROBA‐V/EPT electron flux data to train a deep learning data‐driven model with the purpose of investigating the Earth’s radiation belts dynamics. The Long‐Short Term Memory Neural Network is employed to predict the electron fluxes between 1 and 8 Earth Radius (RE) along a Low Earth Orbit. Different combinations of time series inputs involving Solar Wind and geomagnetic data are tested, based on previous knowledge of their impact onto the high energy radiation fluxes. Two Energetic Particle Telescope energy channels feed the learning procedure for nonrelativistic (0.5–0.6 MeV) and relativistic (1.0–2.4 MeV) electron fluxes. A good performance of the model employing different time resolutions from hours to days is demonstrated with a correlation of more than 0.9 between the predicted and out‐of‐sample fluxes, and a prediction efficiency that can attain between 0.6 and 0.9 depending on the L range. The analysis of different input parameters and time resolutions allows to construct the best data set structure and improve the model to identify relevant effects such as dropouts, flux increase and recovery features.
Psilocybin for treatment resistant depression in patients taking a concomitant SSRI medication
Authors: Goodwin Guy M. , Croal Megan , Feifel David , Kelly John R. , Marwood Lindsey , Mistry Sunil , O’Keane Veronica , Peck Stephanie Knatz , Simmons Hollie , Sisa Claudia , Stansfield Susan C. , Tsai Joyce , Williams Sam , Malievskaia Ekaterina
Published: July 2023

Psilocybin is being investigated as a treatment in adults with treatment-resistant depression (TRD). Withdrawal from serotonergic antidepressant drugs is a common prerequisite for taking part in trials of psilocybin due to the possibility of ongoing antidepressant drugs altering the psychedelic effect. This phase II, exploratory, international, fixed-dose, open-label study explored the safety, tolerability, and efficacy of a synthetic form of psilocybin (investigational drug COMP360) adjunct to a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor in participants with TRD. Participants received a single 25 mg dose of psilocybin alongside psychological support and were followed-up for 3 weeks. The primary efficacy end point was change in the Montgomery-Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS) total score from Baseline at Week 3. Secondary end points were safety, including treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs), the proportion of responders and remitters at Week 3, and the change from Baseline to Week 3 in Clinical Global Impression–Severity (CGI-S) score. Nineteen participants were dosed and the mean Baseline MADRS total score was 31.7 (SD = 5.77). Twelve (63.2%) participants had a TEAE, most of which were mild and resolved on the day of onset. There were no serious TEAEs or indication of increased suicidal ideation or behavior. At Week 3, mean change from Baseline in MADRS total score was −14.9 (95% CI, −20.7 to −9.2), and −1.3 (SD = 1.29) in the CGI-S. Both response and remission were evident in 8 (42.1%) participants. Larger, comparator-controlled trials are necessary to understand if this paradigm can optimize treatment-outcome where antidepressant drug withdrawal would be problematic.
Trichlorobacter ammonificans, a dedicated acetate-dependent ammonifier with a novel module for dissimilatory nitrate reduction to ammonia
Authors: Sorokin Dimitry Y , Tikhonova Tamara V , Koch Hanna , van den Berg Eveline M , Hinderks Renske S , Pabst Martin , Dergousova Natalia I , Soloveva Anastasia Y , Kuenen Gijs J , Popov Vladimir O , van Loosdrecht Mark C M , Lücker Sebastian
Published: July 2023

Dissimilatory nitrate reduction to ammonia (DNRA) is a common biochemical process in the nitrogen cycle in natural and man-made habitats, but its significance in wastewater treatment plants is not well understood. Several ammonifying Trichlorobacter strains (former Geobacter) were previously enriched from activated sludge in nitrate-limited chemostats with acetate as electron (e) donor, demonstrating their presence in these systems. Here, we isolated and characterized the new species Trichlorobacter ammonificans strain G1 using a combination of low redox potential and copper-depleted conditions. This allowed purification of this DNRA organism from competing denitrifiers. T. ammonificans is an extremely specialized ammonifier, actively growing only with acetate as e-donor and carbon source and nitrate as e-acceptor, but H2 can be used as an additional e-donor. The genome of G1 does not encode the classical ammonifying modules NrfAH/NrfABCD. Instead, we identified a locus encoding a periplasmic nitrate reductase immediately followed by an octaheme cytochrome c that is conserved in many Geobacteraceae species. We purified this octaheme cytochrome c protein (TaNiR), which is a highly active dissimilatory ammonifying nitrite reductase loosely associated with the cytoplasmic membrane. It presumably interacts with two ferredoxin subunits (NapGH) that donate electrons from the menaquinol pool to the periplasmic nitrate reductase (NapAB) and TaNiR. Thus, the Nap-TaNiR complex represents a novel type of highly functional DNRA module. Our results indicate that DNRA catalyzed by octaheme nitrite reductases is a metabolic feature of many Geobacteraceae, representing important community members in various anaerobic systems, such as rice paddy soil and wastewater treatment facilities.
First report on the presence of huanglongbing vectors (Diaphorina citri and Trioza erytreae) in Ghana
Authors: Aidoo Owusu F. , Ablormeti Fred K. , Ninsin Kodwo D. , Antwi-Agyakwa Akua K. , Osei-Owusu Jonathan , Heve William K. , Dofuor Aboagye K. , Soto Yovanna L. , Edusei George , Osabutey Angelina F. , Sossah Frederick L. , Aryee Clement O. , Alabi Olufemi J. , Sétamou Mamoudou
Published: July 2023

As significant threats to global citrus production, Diaphorina citri (Kuwayama; Hemiptera: Psyllidae) and Trioza erytreae (Del Guercio; Hemiptera: Triozidae) have caused considerable losses to citrus trees globally. Diaphorina citri vectors “Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus” and “Ca. L. americanus”, whereas T. erytreae transmits “Ca. L. africanus” and “Ca. L. asiaticus”, the pathogens responsible for citrus greening disease or Huanglongbing (HLB). Though HLB is a destructive disease of citrus wherever it occurs, information on the occurrence and geographical distribution of its vectors in Africa is limited. In recent surveys to determine if HLB vectors are present in Ghana, we observed eggs, nymphs, and adults of insects suspected to be D. citri and T. erytreae. Using morphological traits and DNA analyses, the identity of the suspected insects was confirmed to be D. citri and T. erytreae. Individuals of D. citri and T. erytreae were examined using qPCR for CLaf, CLam, and CLas, but none of them tested positive for any of the Liberibacter species. Herein we report, for the first time, the presence of D. citri and T. erytreae in Ghana (West Africa). We discuss the implications of this new threat to the citrus industry to formulate appropriate management strategies.
Avalanche-size distribution of Cayley tree
Authors: Patron Amikam
Published: July 2023

Attacks on networks is a very important issue in developing strategies of eradicating spreads of malicious phenomena in networks, such as epidemics and fake information. This field of research is referred to as networks immunization. The traditional approach to evaluating the effectiveness of attacks on networks focuses on measuring macro parameters related to the entire attack, such as the critical probability of a percolation occurrence in the network $$p_c$$

p
c

and the relative size of the largest component in the network, known as the giant component, but not considering the attack on a micro perspective, which is the analysis of node removals, during an attack, themselves, their characteristics and results. In this paper we present and apply the last method of focusing on the micro scale of an attack. Based on the theory of percolation in networks, we analyze the phenomenon of an avalanche which results due to a single node removal from a network. An avalanche is a state in which a removal of a single node from the giant component of a network leads to the disconnection of additional nodes. This process significantly contributes to the fragmentation (immunization) of the network, comparing to the impact of the initial node removal alone. Specifically, we focus on the size parameter of an avalanche, which is the number of nodes that are disconnected from the giant component due to a single node removal. Relating to a random attack on a network of the type of Cayley tree, we derive analytically the distribution of the sizes of avalanches that occur during the entire attack on it, until the network is dismantled (immunized) and the attack is terminated.
Stability of the emulsion during the injection of anionic and cationic surfactants in the presence of various salts
Authors: Garmsiri Hamid , Jahani Shahriar , Kazemzadeh Yousef , Sharifi Mohammad , Riazi Masoud , Azin Reza
Published: July 2023

Smart water injection is one of the engineering techniques to enhance oil recovery (EOR) from carbonate and sandstone reservoirs that have been widely used in recent decades. Wettability alteration and IFT are among the essential and influential mechanisms that can be mentioned to achieve EOR. One of the critical issues in the field of EOR is the effect of reservoir ions on the formation and stability of the emulsion. Investigating the role and performance of these ions during EOR processes is of significant importance. These processes are based on smart water injection and natural production. In this research, stability was investigated and formed during the injection of different concentrations of anionic and cationic surfactants, respectively alpha olefin sulfonate (AOS) and cetrimonium bromide (CTAB), into a water–oil emulsion with a volume ratio of 30–70. Considering the droplet diameter distribution and the flow speed of separation by centrifugation, the optimal concentration level has been investigated in both surfactants. Based on the results, the highest stability and emulsion formation occurred in the presence of AOS surfactant. Then different concentrations of CaCl2, MgCl2, and NaCl salts were added in optimal concentrations of both surfactants. The formation and stability of the emulsion was checked by examining the distribution of the droplet diameter and the separation flow rate. AOS anionic surfactant had the most stability in the presence of MgCl2 salt, and better performance in stability of the emulsion was obtained. The maximum number of droplet diameters in the optimal concentration for AOS and CTAB surfactant systems is 1010 and 880, respectively, and for binary systems of AOS surfactant and MgCl2, CaCl2 and NaCl salts, it is 2200, 1120 and 1110, respectively. Furthermore, for the CTAB binary system in the presence of MgCl2, CaCl2, and NaCl salts, it is 1200, 1110, and 1100, respectively. The stability of the emulsion of salts in the presence of both AOS and CTAB surfactants was MgCl2 > CaCl2 > NaCl.
Reflection and transmission of nanoresonators including bi-isotropic and metamaterial layers: opportunities to control and amplify chiral and nonreciprocal effects for nanophotonics applications
Authors: Starodubtsev Evgenii
Published: July 2023

Electromagnetic waves reflected from and transmitted through the multilayer nanoresonators including the main layer made of a bi-isotropic material or metamaterial sandwiched between dielectric, epsilon-near-zero or metallic spacer layers have been analytically modeled. The numerical and graphical analysis, based on the exact solution of the electromagnetic boundary problem, confirms opportunities to use such nanoresonators as utracompact polarization converters. The proposed systems are characterized by wide ranges of parameters and significantly reduced (subwavelength) thicknesses. The spacer layers can provide modification, control, and amplification of chiral and nonreciprocal effects for the reflected and transmitted radiation. The concept can be realized for various geometries of dielectric, epsilon-near-zero, metallic, bi-isotropic, metamaterial layers and used to develop new ultrathin, large area, and relatively easy-to-manufacture polarization and other devices for nanophotonics.