bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Magnetron sputtering technique for analyzing the influence of RF sputtering power on microstructural surface morphology of aluminum thin films deposited on SiO2/Si substrates
Authors: Asgary Somayeh , Vaghri Elnaz , Daemi Masoumeh , Esmaili Parisa , Ramezani Amir H. , Memon Saim , Hoseinzadeh Siamak
Published: September 2021

In this research, aluminum (Al) thin films were deposited on SiO2/Si substrates using RF magnetron sputtering technique for analyzing the influence of RF sputtering power on microstructural surface morphologies. Different sputtering RF powers (100–400 W) were employed to form Al thin films. The characteristics of deposited Al thin films are investigated using X-ray diffraction pattern (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM) and Fourier-transforms infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. The X-ray diffraction (XRD) results demonstrate that the deposited films in low sputtering power have amorphous nature. By increasing the sputtering power, crystallization is observed. AFM analysis results show that the RF power of 300 W is the optimum sputtering power to grow the smoothest Al thin films. FTIR results show that the varying RF power affect the chemical structure of the deposited films. The SEM results show that by increasing the sputtering power leads to the formation of isolated texture on the surface of substrate. In conclusion, RF power has a significant impact on the properties of deposited films, particularly crystallization and shape.
Fortifying a meal with oyster mushroom powder beneficially affects postprandial glucagon-like peptide-1, non-esterified free fatty acids and hunger sensation in adults with impaired glucose tolerance: a double-blind randomized controlled crossover trial
Authors: Dicks Lisa , Jakobs Linda , Sari Miriam , Hambitzer Reinhard , Ludwig Norbert , Simon Marie-Christine , Stehle Peter , Stoffel-Wagner Birgit , Helfrich Hans-Peter , Ahlborn Jenny , Rühl Martin , Hartmann Bolette , Holst Jens J. , Ellinger Sabine
Published: September 2021

Purpose

Impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) is a pathophysiological condition characterized by insulin resistance with known metabolic consequences such as postprandial hyperglycemia and hypertriglyceridemia. We hypothesized that fortifying a meal with mushrooms rich in β-glucans may diminish glucose and triglyceride responses by improving postprandial gastrointestinal hormone release.

Methods

In a randomized controlled crossover study, 22 subjects with IGT ingested a meal either enriched with 20 g powder (8.1 g β-glucans) of oven-dried Pleurotus ostreatus (enriched meal, EN) or without enrichment (control meal, CON). Blood was collected before and repeatedly within 4 h after the meal to determine AUC of glucose (primary outcome), insulin, triglycerides, non-esterified free fatty acids (NEFAs), glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), gastric inhibitory polypeptide (GIP) and ghrelin. Appetite sensations (hunger, satiety, fullness, and desire to eat) were assessed before and after meal consumption by visual analog scales.

Results

Postprandial glucose, insulin, triglycerides, GIP and ghrelin concentrations as well as the corresponding AUCs did not differ between EN and CON. NEFAs-AUC was 14% lower (P = 0.026) and GLP-1-AUC 17% higher (P = 0.001) after EN compared to CON. Appetite ratings did not differ between treatments, except for hunger (AUC 22% lower after EN vs. CON; P = 0.031).

Conclusion

The observed immediate postprandial metabolic changes indicate that an easily manageable fortification of a single meal with powder from dried oyster mushrooms as β-glucan source may improve postprandial metabolism. If the effect is preserved long term, this measure can diminish the risk for further development of overweight/obesity and type 2 diabetes in subjects with IGT.

Clinical trial registration

German Clinical Trial Register on 09/08/2018; trial-ID: DRKS00015244.
A petrological and conceptual model of Mayon volcano (Philippines) as an example of an open-vent volcano
Authors: Ruth D. C. S. , Costa F.
Published: September 2021

Mayon is a basaltic andesitic, open-vent volcano characterized by persistent passive degassing from the summit at 2463 m above sea level. Mid-size (< 0.1 km3) and mildly explosive eruptions and occasional phreatic eruptions have occurred approximately every 10 years for over a hundred years. Mayon’s plumbing system structure, processes, and time scales driving its eruptions are still not well-known, despite being the most active volcano in the Philippines. We investigated the petrology and geochemistry of its crystal-rich lavas (~ 50 vol% phenocrysts) from nine historical eruptions between 1928 and 2009 and propose a conceptual model of the processes and magmatic architecture that led to the eruptions. The whole-rock geochemistry and mineral assemblage (plagioclase + orthopyroxene + clinopyroxene + Fe-Ti oxide ± olivine) of the lavas have remained remarkably homogenous (54 wt% SiO2, ~ 4 wt% MgO) from 1928 to 2009. However, electron microscope images and microprobe analyses of the phenocrysts and the existence of three types of glomerocrysts testify to a range of magmatic processes, including long-term magma residence, magma mixing, crystallization, volatile fluxing, and degassing. Multiple mineral-melt geothermobarometers suggest a relatively thermally buffered system at 1050 ± 25 °C, with several magma residence zones, ranging from close to the surface, through reservoirs at ~ 4–5 km, and as deep as ~ 20 km. Diffusion chronometry on > 200 orthopyroxene crystals reveal magma mixing timescales that range from a few days to about 65 years, but the majority are shorter than the decadal inter-eruptive repose period. This implies that magma intrusion at Mayon has been nearly continuous over the studied time period, with limited crystal recycling from one eruption to the next. The variety of plagioclase textures and zoning patterns reflect fluxing of volatiles from depth to shallower melts through which they eventually reach the atmosphere through an open conduit. The crystal-rich nature of the erupted magmas may have developed during each inter-eruptive period. We propose that Mayon has behaved over almost 100 years as a steady state system, with limited variations in eruption frequency, degassing flux, magma composition, and crystal content that are mainly determined by the amount and composition of deep magma and volatile input in the system. We explore how Mayon volcano’s processes and working model can be related to other open-vent mafic and water-rich systems such as Etna, Stromboli, Villarrica, or Llaima. Finally, our understanding of open-vent, persistently active volcanoes is rooted in historical observations, but volcano behavior can evolve over longer time frames. We speculate that these volcanoes produce specific plagioclase textures that can be used to identify similar volcanic behavior in the geologic record.
Determinants and Reference Ranges of Serum Immunoglobulins in Middle-Aged and Elderly Individuals: a Population-Based Study
Authors: Khan Samer Raza , Chaker Layal , Ikram Mohammad Arfan , Peeters Robin Patrick , van Hagen Petrus Martinus , Dalm Virgil Alain Silvester Hovestadt
Published: September 2021

Purpose

In clinical practice, currently one reference range for serum immunoglobulin (Ig) A, G, and M is applied to all adults, although various factors may influence Ig serum levels. Population-based data on determinants of IgA, IgG, and IgM and recommendations for subgroup specific reference ranges are lacking. We aimed to provide an overview of determinants of IgA, IgG, and IgM in community-dwelling middle-aged and elderly individuals and explore determinants that influence Ig reference ranges.

Methods

Within the Rotterdam Study, we performed linear regression analyses for the association of demographic, lifestyle, and cardiovascular factors with serum IgA, IgG, and IgM. We furthermore calculated Ig reference ranges (based on percentiles), both overall and within relevant subgroups.

Results

We included 8768 participants (median age 62 years). IgA and IgG increased non-linearly with higher age (P < .0001 for both). Women had lower IgA (beta: − 0.24; 95% confidence interval [95% CI]: − 0.29; − 0.20) and IgG (beta: − 0.33; 95% CI: − 0.44; − 0.23), but higher IgM levels (beta: 0.08; 95% CI: 0.04;0.13) than men. Former and particularly current smoking were associated with lower IgA and IgG (betas between − 0.07 and − 1.03). Higher alcohol consumption was associated with lower IgG (beta for heavy drinking: − 0.70; 95% CI: − 0.91; − 0.48). Corticosteroid use was associated with lower IgG (beta: − 1.12; 95% CI: − 1.58; − 0.66). Associations with cardiovascular factors were heterogeneous and differed between sexes.

Conclusion

Age, sex, smoking, alcohol consumption, corticosteroid use, and cardiovascular factors are determinants that should be considered when interpreting serum Ig levels in middle-aged and elderly individuals and may require adjusted reference ranges.
The Effect of Expected Losses on the Hong Kong Property Market
Authors: Li Ling , Wan Wayne Xinwei
Published: September 2021

Expected losses anchored to purchase prices can affect actual transactions in different property sectors. Utilizing the data of over a million commercial and residential property transactions in Hong Kong from 1991 to 2015, we find that sellers facing nominal losses relative to their prior purchase prices attained higher selling prices than their counterparts. We suggest two market factors to account for the extent of the loss effect on the market transaction prices. First, the loss effect is only prominent when comparable transaction information is not readily accessible, such as in the less-transacted commercial property market. Second, our results suggest the relevance of the loss effect to the boom-bust property cycle in both the residential and commercial markets. The effect of expected losses on transaction prices is relatively weak in the bust period between 1998 and 2003 when the Hong Kong property market lost almost two-thirds of its value, and it enlarges with the market recovering. The loss effect is not attenuated at the aggregate market level but is associated with strong reductions in price declines in the bust period and in the commercial market. These results have implications for understanding the market adjustment of the loss effect in the property market and its association with the aggregate market dynamics in a boom-bust property cycle.
REPIMPACT - a prospective longitudinal multisite study on the effects of repetitive head impacts in youth soccer
Authors: Koerte Inga K. , Bahr Roald , Filipcik Peter , Gooijers Jolien , Leemans Alexander , Lin Alexander P. , Tripodis Yorghos , Shenton Martha E. , Sochen Nir , Swinnen Stephan P. , Pasternak Ofer ,   for the REPIMPACT Consortium Investigators
Published: September 2021

Repetitive head impacts (RHI) are common in youth athletes participating in contact sports. RHI differ from concussions; they are considered hits to the head that usually do not result in acute symptoms and are therefore also referred to as “subconcussive” head impacts. RHI occur e.g., when heading the ball or during contact with another player. Evidence suggests that exposure to RHI may have cumulative effects on brain structure and function. However, little is known about brain alterations associated with RHI, or about the risk factors that may lead to clinical or behavioral sequelae. REPIMPACT is a prospective longitudinal study of competitive youth soccer players and non-contact sport controls aged 14 to 16 years. The study aims to characterize consequences of exposure to RHI with regard to behavior (i.e., cognition, and motor function), clinical sequelae (i.e., psychiatric and neurological symptoms), brain structure, function, diffusion and biochemistry, as well as blood- and saliva-derived measures of molecular processes associated with exposure to RHI (e.g., circulating microRNAs, neuroproteins and cytokines). Here we present the structure of the REPIMPACT Consortium which consists of six teams of clinicians and scientists in six countries. We further provide detailed information on the specific aims and the design of the REPIMPACT study. The manuscript also describes the progress made in the study thus far. Finally, we discuss important challenges and approaches taken to overcome these challenges.
Halloysite nanotubes-based nanocomposites for the hydrophobization of hydraulic mortar
Authors: Caruso Maria Rita , Megna Bartolomeo , Lisuzzo Lorenzo , Cavallaro Giuseppe , Milioto Stefana , Lazzara Giuseppe
Published: September 2021

The treatment of stone surfaces for their protection from ageing caused by natural and anthropogenic effects is an open issue in materials development for Cultural Heritage. We thought interesting to verify the suitability of a modified cellulose biofilm filled with halloysite nanotubes as wax compatibilizers to design a protecting layer. A hydraulic mortar was selected as a stone prototype. To improve the physico-chemical properties of the covering layer, wax microparticles have been incorporated to control transport, consolidation and wettability features. In particular, different application protocols have been studied, namely brushing and spraying, to assess whether the proposed procedures can be scaled up. Colorimetric analysis has been carried out to evidence the applicability in terms of color alteration after the treatment. Water adhesion was investigated by measuring the contact angle values as a function of time to obtain information on spreading and adsorption phenomena. These physico-chemical properties have been correlated to the microstructure evidenced by both electron and optical microscopies.

Graphic abstract
Reflexivität
Authors: Neuweg Georg Hans
Published: September 2021

Zeitgenössische Lehrerbildungsansätze eint das Ziel, die Reflexivität angehender Lehrpersonen zu steigern. Häufig beruft man sich dabei auf Schönsreflective practitioner-Konzept. Im ersten Teil des Beitrags wird zunächst gezeigt, dass diese Berufung zu Unrecht erfolgt; Schön hat eine Theorie des Lernens an der Erfahrung vorgelegt, dessen Schwächen in Reflexionsansätzen gerade überwunden werden sollen. Sodann werden diese Schwächen benannt und das Reflexionskonzept als Antwort darauf rekonstruiert. Schließlich wird die Vielfalt unterschiedlicher Ausformungen reflexiver Lehrerbildung exemplarisch illustriert. Im zweiten Teil wird auf bislang kaum diskutierte Gefahren und Probleme hypertropher Reflexionsanforderungen hingewiesen. Der Beitrag schließt im dritten Teil mit einer kritischen Anfrage an das Programm einer reflexiven Lehrerbildung.
Ein „anderer Liberalismus“ für das 21. Jahrhundert – aber welcher? Neue Texte von und über Judith N. Shklar
Authors: Trimcev Rieke
Published: September 2021

Der liberalen politischen Theorie von Judith N. Shklar wird zunehmend die Fähigkeit zugesprochen, Pfade aus der Krise der liberalen Demokratie zu weisen. Dabei lassen sich eine moderate und eine radikalere Lesart der demokratietheoretischen Anschlussfähigkeit von Shklars „Liberalismus der Furcht“ unterscheiden. Im ersten Teil des vorliegenden Aufsatzes werden diese Deutungen in der neueren Shklar-Forschung verortet; einen geeigneten Ausgangspunkt bildet die Debatte über die Frage, welche Gestaltbarkeitserwartungen Shklars skeptische politische Theorie an politisches Handeln formuliert. Zudem wird die Plausibilität der radikalen Lesart anhand der Frage diskutiert, inwiefern Shklar gewinnbringend als eine agonale Politiktheoretikerin gelesen werden kann. Im zweiten Teil werden neu edierte beziehungsweise übersetzte Texte von Shklar daraufhin befragt, welche Rückschlüsse sie auf die im ersten Teil betrachteten Debatten zulassen. Hier wird einerseits rekonstruiert, wie die Aufwertung der Demokratie im Werk von Shklar auch mit einer Aufwertung der Romantik und ihrer politiktheoretischen Ressourcen einhergeht. Andererseits wird anhand von Shklars Arbeiten über politische Verpflichtungen und zivilen Ungehorsam die behauptete Radikalität ihres Denkens abgewogen. Insgesamt plädiert der Aufsatz für die Vorzüge der moderaten demokratischen Lesart, die allerdings um einige Einsichten der radikalen Lesart erweitert werden kann.
Konflikte als Hoffnungsträger. Auseinandersetzungen um die postmigrantische Stadtgesellschaft
Authors: Großmann Katrin , Roskamm Nikolai , Budnik Maria , Haase Annegret , Hedtke Christoph , Kersting Norbert , Krahmer Alexander , Messerschmidt Sven , Müller Julian David , Resch Sina
Published: September 2021

Aktuell werden Konflikte in der Migrationsdebatte neu bewertet. So wird ihr vermehrtes Auftreten als Zeichen für „gelingende Integration“ interpretiert. Konflikte sind hier als das Verbindungsband konzipiert, das offene, plurale Gesellschaften zusammenhalten kann. Zugetraut wird den Konflikten auch, dass sie einen Stimulus setzen für die demokratische Weiterentwicklung der als postmigrantisch bezeichneten Gesellschaft. Unser Artikel betrachtet in einem Literaturessay unterschiedliche Zugänge zu den Konflikten und bringt dabei einige der auf diesem Gebiet relevanten Forschungsbereiche zusammen. Wir erkunden, wie die Wirkung von Konflikten jeweils beschrieben beziehungsweise erklärt wird und berichten von Ansätzen der Konfliktsoziologie, der Migrationsforschung, der radikalen Demokratietheorie und der Stadtforschung. Konflikte, insbesondere migrationsbezogene Konflikte, erscheinen in der Gesamtbetrachtung als ein ambivalenter Hoffnungsträger, nicht zuletzt deshalb, weil ihre Ursachen multidimensional sind und weil sie sich mit den Wirkungen anderer Konfliktlinien (wie sozialer Ungleichheit) überlagern.
Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy in Peyronie’s Disease: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Bakr Ahmed M. , El-Sakka Ahmed I.
Published: September 2021

Background

Peyronie’s disease (PD) is associated with penile pain, deviation, and sexual dysfunction. Up till now, there is no conservative standard treatment for PD. However, the role of Extracorporeal Shock Wave Therapy (ESWT) is gaining increasing interest.

Aim

To evaluate the effect of ESWT on penile deviation, plaque size, erectile function, pain scale, and the rate of complications in PD patients.

Methods

PubMed database was searched for articles published from January 2000 to November 2020, using related keywords and including randomized controlled trials (RCTs) only. Meta-analysis and forest plots were carried out using RevMan, and outcomes were reviewed by 2 authors independently. PRISMA guidelines were used in this article to achieve the quantitative and qualitative synthesis of data.

Outcomes

Changes in penile deviation, plaque size, erectile function, pain scale, and the rate of ESWT related complications.

RESULTS

The search yielded 73 articles. Three RCTs, including 117 patients in the ESWT group and 121 patients in the placebo group, were reviewed. ESWT is associated with reduction in plaque size (OR = 2.59, 95% CI (1.15–5.85), P= .02). No significant difference in reduction of penile deviation angle or rate of bruises were detected in post ESWT group when compared to placebo. No evidence was found to show an effect of ESWT on erectile function or pain scale.

Clinical Implications

Based on the available RCTs, ESWT fails to improve penile curvature or pain in men with PD. Although ESWT may reduce plaque size, this remains of questionable clinical significance.

Strengths & Limitations

RCTs used different metrics to report the same outcome. Missed data were imputed to match the requirements of meta-analysis. However, there is still much data that cannot be estimated.

CONCLUSION

The current data suggest that ESWT fails to improve penile curvature or pain in men with PD. Although ESWT may reduce plaque size, this remains of questionable clinical significance, and further studies are required to confirm findings.
Tying the Knot
Authors: Probert Rebecca
Published: September 2021

The Marriage Act 1836 established the foundations of modern marriage law, allowing couples to marry in register offices and non-Anglican places of worship for the first time. Rebecca Probert draws on an exceptionally wide range of primary sources to provide the first detailed examination of marriage legislation, social practice, and their mutual interplay, from 1836 through to the unanticipated demands of the 2020 coronavirus pandemic. She analyses how and why the law has evolved, closely interrogating the parliamentary and societal debates behind legislation. She demonstrates how people have chosen to marry and how those choices have changed, and evaluates how far the law has been help or hindrance in enabling couples to marry in ways that reflect their beliefs, be they religious or secular. In an era of individual choice and multiculturalism, Tying the Knot sign posts possible ways in which future legislators might avoid the pitfalls of the past.
Social Emotional Learning in the Early Years: Innovation and Applications
Authors: Frydenberg Erica
Published: September 2021

The importance of social emotional learning (SEL) has been well acknowledged as a significant feature of education and emotional development across the life span. School psychologists play an important part as innovators, implementers and evaluators of resources in the social emotional domain. When it comes to the early years in the education system, social emotional aspects of the curriculum form the basis of the learning experience. Teachers utilise resources that enhance their classroom practice. Coping research and practice has had a long history in the literature, but the translation to early childhood educational practice, supported by school psychologists, is a more recent development. This article details three innovations, namely, The Early Years Coping Cards, Families Coping and the COPE-Resilience Program. Development, applications, and evaluations are considered to highlight the significant role school psychologists and trainee psychologists can play.
Why should teachers cultivate resilience through mindfulness?
Authors: Neumann Michelle M. , Tillott Sarah
Published: September 2021

The concept of resilience and mindfulness is becoming increasingly popular in schools worldwide in response to critical issues such as escalating teacher stress and burnout. This article explores the concept of mindfulness as a supportive practice to build resilience in times of stress in relation to reducing or preventing teacher burnout. It aims to provide practical strategies for psychologists and counsellors in schools to empower teachers with coping strategies when encountering stress. What current research literature reveals about the effectiveness of resilience and mindfulness for supporting the wellbeing of preservice and inservice teachers is discussed. Overall, the research shows that practising mindfulness to build resilience is beneficial because it helps teachers focus on the present and improves attention, self-awareness and emotional regulation, which can reduce stress and enhance wellbeing. However, further empirical studies are needed to provide deeper insights of these benefits for teachers. Recommendations for psychologists and counsellors in supporting teachers on practising mindfulness and resilience are provided.
A PROOF OF MERCA’S CONJECTURES ON SUMS OF ODD DIVISOR FUNCTIONS
Authors: LAKEIN KAYA , LARSEN ANNE
Published: September 2021

Merca [‘Congruence identities involving sums of odd divisors function’, Proc. Rom. Acad. Ser. A Math. Phys. Tech. Sci. Inf. Sci.22(2) (2021), 119–125] posed three conjectures on congruences for specific convolutions of a sum of odd divisor functions with a generating function for generalised m-gonal numbers. Extending Merca’s work, we complete the proof of these conjectures.
APPetite: validation of a smartphone app-based tool for the remote measure of free-living subjective appetite
Authors: Holliday Adrian , Johnson Kelsie Olivia , Kaiseler Mariana , Crabtree Daniel R.
Published: September 2021

This study determined the validity, reproducibility and usability of a smartphone app – APPetite – for the measure of free-living, subjective appetite. Validity was assessed compared with the criterion tool of pen-and-paper visual analogue scale (VAS) (n 22). Appetite was recorded using APPetite and VAS, one immediately after the other, upon waking and every hour thereafter for 12 h. This was repeated the next day with the order of tool reversed. Agreement between tools was assessed using Bland–Altman analysis. Reproducibility and usability were assessed in a separate experiment (n 22) of two trials (APPetite v. VAS), separated by 7 d. Appetite was recorded in duplicate upon waking and every hour for 12 h using APPetite or VAS. Agreement between duplicate measures was assessed using Bland–Altman analysis and CV was compared between tools. Usability was assessed by comparing compliance and by qualitative evaluation. APPetite demonstrated good criterion validity with trivial bias of 1·65 units/mm·h–1 between APPetite- and VAS-derived AUC appetite scores. Limits of agreement were within a maximum allowed difference of 10 %. However, proportional bias was observed. APPetite demonstrated high reproducibility, with minimal bias (–0·578 units·h–1) and no difference in CV between APPetite and VAS (1·29 ± 1·42 % v. 1·54 ± 2·36 %, P = 0·64). Compliance was high with APPetite (92·7 ± 8·0 %) and VAS (91·6 ± 20·4 %, P = 0·81). Ninety percent of participants preferred APPetite, citing greater accessibility, simplified process and easier/quicker use. While proportional bias precludes using APPetite and VAS interchangeably, APPetite appears a valid, reproducible and highly usable tool for measuring free-living appetite in young-to-middle-aged adults.
Do Capital Requirements Make Banks Safer? Evidence From a Quasinatural Experiment
Authors: Bostandzic Denefa , Irresberger Felix , Juelsrud Ragnar E. , Weiß Gregor
Published: September 2021

We use the EBA capital exercise of 2011 as a quasinatural experiment to investigate how capital requirements affect various measures of bank solvency risk. We show that, while regulatory measures of solvency improve, nonregulatory measures indicate a deterioration in bank solvency in response to higher capital requirements. The decline in bank solvency is driven by a permanent reduction in banks’ market value of equity. This finding is consistent with a reduction in bank profitability, rather than a repricing of bank equity due to a reduction of implicit and explicit too-big-too-fail guarantees. We then discuss alternative policies to improve bank solvency.
Characterization of a copper transporter 1 from Dermanyssus gallinae as a vaccine antigen
Authors: Fujisawa Sotaro , Murata Shiro , Isezaki Masayoshi , Ariizumi Takuma , Sato Takumi , Oishi Eiji , Taneno Akira , Maekawa Naoya , Okagawa Tomohiro , Ichii Osamu , Konnai Satoru , Ohashi Kazuhiko
Published: September 2021

Poultry red mites (Dermanyssus gallinae, PRM) are dangerous ectoparasites that infest chickens and threaten the poultry industry worldwide. PRMs usually develop resistance to chemical acaricides, necessitating the development of more effective preventive agents, and vaccination could be an alternative strategy for controlling PRMs. The suitability of plasma membrane proteins expressed in the midguts as vaccine antigens was evaluated because these molecules are exposed to antibodies in the ingested blood and the binding of antibodies could potentially induce direct damage to midgut tissue and indirect damage via inhibition of the functions of target molecules. Therefore, in the present study, a copper transporter 1-like molecule (Dg-Ctr1) was identified and its efficacy as a vaccine antigen was assessed in vitro. Dg-Ctr1 mRNA was expressed in the midguts and ovaries and in all the life stages, and flow cytometric analysis indicated that Dg-Ctr1 was expressed on the plasma membrane. Importantly, nymphs fed on plasma derived from chickens immunized with the recombinant protein of the extracellular region of Dg-Ctr1 showed a significant reduction in the survival rate. These data indicate that the application of Dg-Ctr1 as a vaccine antigen could reduce the number of nymphs in the farms, contributing to reduction in the economic losses caused by PRMs in the poultry industry. To establish an effective vaccination strategy, the acaricidal effects of the combined use of Dg-Ctr1 with chemical acaricides or other vaccine antigens must be examined.
An exploration of gender and prolonged grief symptoms using network analysis
Authors: Maccallum F. , Lundorff M. , Johannsen M. , Farver-Vestergaard I. , O'Connor M.
Published: September 2021

Background

Gender has been proposed as a potentially important predictor of bereavement outcomes. The majority of research in the field has explored this issue by examining gender differences in global grief severity. Findings have been mixed. In this study, we explore potential gender differences in grief using network analysis. This approach examines how individual symptoms relate to and reinforce each other, and so offers potential to shed light on novel aspects of grief expression across genders.

Method

Graphical lasso networks were constructed using self-report data from 839 spousally bereaved older participants (584 female, 255 male) collected at 2- and 11- months post-bereavement. Edge strength, node strength and global network strength were compared to identify similarities and differences between gender networks across time.

Results

At both time points, the strongest connection for both genders was from yearning to pangs of grief. Yearning, pangs of grief, acceptance, bitterness and shock were prominent nodes at time 1. Numbness and meaninglessness emerged as prominent nodes at time 2. Males and females differed in the relative importance of shock at time 1, and the female network had greater overall strength than the male network at time 2.

Conclusions

This study identified many similarities and few differences in the relationships between prolonged grief symptoms for males and females. Findings suggest that future studies should examine alternate sources of variation in grief outcomes. Limitations are discussed.
Autistic traits and camouflaging behaviors: a cross-sectional investigation in a University student population
Authors: Dell’Osso Liliana , Cremone Ivan M. , Chiarantini Ilaria , Arone Alessandro , Massimetti Gabriele , Carmassi Claudia , Carpita Barbara
Published: September 2021

Background

Increasing research is stressing the importance of identifying autistic traits (ATs) in clinical and general populations. University students may be a group at higher risk for the presence of ATs. Recently, specific attention has been paid to camouflaging strategies used by subjects in the autism spectrum in order to cope with the social environment. The aim of this work was to evaluate the prevalence of ATs and camouflaging behaviors in a population of University students.

Methods

Subjects were requested to anonymously fill out through an online form the Adult Autism Subthreshold Spectrum and the Camouflaging AT Questionnaire.

Results

ATs were more represented among males and among students of specific fields of study. Camouflaging behaviors were significantly more frequent among subjects with more severe autism spectrum symptoms, without differences depending from sex.

Conclusions

Our study confirms the strong association between ATs and camouflaging behaviors and the relationship between ATs, sex, and specific fields of study.
Seismic Detection of Oceanic Internal Gravity Waves From Subaerial Seismometers
Authors: Shaddox Heather R. , Brodsky Emily E. , Ramp Steven R. , Davis Kristen A.
Published: September 2021

Oceanic internal gravity waves propagate along density stratification within the water column and are ubiquitous. They can propagate thousands of kilometers before breaking in shoaling bathymetry and the ensuing turbulent mixing affects coastal processes and climate feedbacks. Despite their importance, internal waves are intrinsically difficult to detect as they result in only minor amplitude deflection of the sea surface; the need for global detection and long time series of internal waves motivates a search for geophysical detection methods. The pressure coupling of a propagating internal wave with the sloping seafloor provides a potential mechanism to generate seismically observable signals. We use data from the South China Sea where exceptional oceanographic and satellite time series are available for comparison to identify internal wave signals in an onshore passive seismic data set for the first time. We analyze potential seismic signals on broadband seismometers in the context of corroborating oceanographic and satellite data available near Dongsha Atoll in May–June 2019 and find a promising correlation between transient seismic tilt signals and internal wave arrivals and collisions in oceanic and satellite data. It appears that we have successfully detected oceanic internal waves using a subaerial seismometer. This initial detection suggests that the onshore seismic detection and amplitude determination of oceanic internal waves is possible and can potentially be used to expand the historical record by capitalizing on existing island and coastal seismic stations.
The Seismicity of Indonesia and Tectonic Implications
Authors: Hutchings Sean J. , Mooney Walter D.
Published: September 2021

Indonesian seismicity provides important insights into the tectonics and hazards of a region that is, characterized by a remarkable diversity in faulting, including subduction, extension, thrusting, and strike‐slip faulting. We present a synthesis of Indonesian seismotectonics by documenting the distributions of hypocenters (≥M 4.6) and focal mechanisms (≥M 5.0) over ∼20 years, quantifying seismicity rates, and comparing observed seismicity trends with recent tectonic and tomography models. Of the 20,622 events ≥M 4.6 observed in the study region, ∼77% are shallow (≤70 km depth) and of magnitudes <M 5.0 (68%). Sixty one events ≥M 7.0 occurred, five of which exceeded M 8.0, including the 2004 Mw 9.1 Sumatra‐Andaman earthquake. Regionally, about ∼320 ≥ M 5.0 earthquakes occur per year, and rates decrease exponentially with increasing temperatures and pressures between 50 and 300 km. Seismicity rates increase in the Mantle Transition Zone (MTZ) likely due to viscous resistance at the 410, 520, and 660 km discontinuities. Intermediate and deep events (≥70 km depth) trace the Wadati‐Benioff zones of several subducting slabs exhibiting geometries consistent with recent tomography models. Seismicity extends to a maximum depth of 678 km. Oblique convergence, lithospheric age, ambient mantle temperatures, and plate velocity likely contribute to the non‐uniform depth distribution of intermediate and deep earthquakes. Shallow seismicity provides insight into how complex oblique convergence is accommodated near the surface, with primary sources including megathrusting, crustal faulting, and shallow intraslab faulting. All sources of shallow seismicity constitute significant seismic hazards.
Automated Classification of Plasma Regions Using 3D Particle Energy Distributions
Authors: Olshevsky Vyacheslav , Khotyaintsev Yuri V. , Lalti Ahmad , Divin Andrey , Delzanno Gian Luca , Anderzén Sven , Herman Pawel , Chien Steven W. D. , Avanov Levon , Dimmock Andrew P. , Markidis Stefano
Published: September 2021

We investigate the properties of the ion sky maps produced by the Dual Ion Spectrometers (DIS) from the Fast Plasma Investigation (FPI). We have trained a convolutional neural network classifier to predict four regions crossed by the Magnetospheric Multiscale Mission (MMS) on the dayside magnetosphere: solar wind, ion foreshock, magnetosheath, and magnetopause using solely DIS spectrograms. The accuracy of the classifier is %. We use the classifier to detect mixed plasma regions, in particular to find the bow shock regions. A similar approach can be used to identify the magnetopause crossings and reveal regions prone to magnetic reconnection. Data processing through the trained classifier is fast and efficient and thus can be used for classification for the whole MMS database.
The ozone climate penalty, NAAQS attainment, and health equity along the Colorado Front Range
Authors: Crooks James L. , Licker Rachel , Hollis Adrienne L. , Ekwurzel Brenda
Published: September 2021

Background

While ozone levels in the USA have decreased since the 1980s, the Denver Metro North Front Range (DMNFR) region remains in nonattainment of the National Ambient Air Quality Standard (NAAQS).

Objective

To estimate the warm season ozone climate penalty to characterize its impact on Colorado Front Range NAAQS attainment and health equity.

Methods

May to October ozone concentrations were estimated using spatio-temporal land-use regression models accounting for climate and weather patterns. The ozone climate penalty was defined as the difference between the 2010s concentrations and concentrations predicted using daily 2010s weather adjusted to match the 1950s climate, holding constant other factors affecting ozone formation.

Results

The ozone climate penalty was 0.5–1.0 ppb for 8-h max ozone concentrations. The highest penalty was around major urban centers and later in the summer. The penalty was positively associated with census tract-level percentage of Hispanic/Latino residents, children living within 100–200% of the federal poverty level, and residents with asthma, diabetes, fair or poor health status, or lacking health insurance.

Significance

The penalty increased the DMNFR ozone NAAQS design values, delaying extrapolated future attainment of the 2008 and 2015 ozone standards by approximately 2 years each, to 2025 and 2035, respectively.
Active surveillance in intermediate-risk prostate cancer with PSA 10–20 ng/mL: pathological outcome analysis of a population-level database
Authors: Lonergan Peter E. , Jeong Chang Wook , Washington Samuel L. , Herlemann Annika , Gomez Scarlett L. , Carroll Peter R. , Cooperberg Matthew R.
Published: September 2021

Background

Active surveillance (AS) is generally recognized as the preferred option for men with low-risk prostate cancer. Current guidelines use prostate-specific antigen (PSA) of 10–20 ng/mL or low-volume biopsy Gleason grade group (GG) 2 as features that, in part, define the favorable intermediate-risk disease and suggest that AS may be considered for some men in this risk category.

Methods

We identified 26,548 men initially managed with AS aged <80 years, with clinically localized prostate cancer (cT1-2cN0M0), PSA ≤ 20 ng/mL, biopsy GG ≤ 2 with percent positive cores ≤33% and who converted to treatment with radical prostatectomy from the surveillance, epidemiology, and end results prostate with the watchful waiting database. Multivariable logistic regression was performed to determine predictors of adverse pathology at RP according to PSA level (<10 vs 10–20 ng/mL) and GG (1 vs 2).

Results

Of 1731 men with GG 1 disease and PSA 10–20 ng/mL, 382 (22.1%) harbored adverse pathology compared to 2340 (28%) of 8,367 men with GG 2 and a PSA < 10 ng/mL who had adverse pathology at RP. On multivariable analysis, the odds of harboring adverse pathology with a PSA 10–20 ng/mL (odds ratio [OR] 1.87, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.71–2.05, p < 0.001) was less than that of GG 2 (OR 2.56, 95%CI 2.40–2.73, p < 0.001) after adjustment.

Conclusions

Our results support extending AS criteria more permissively to carefully selected men with PSA 10–20 ng/mL and GG 1 disease.
Association between the expression of lncRNA BASP-AS1 and volume of right hippocampal tail moderated by episode duration in major depressive disorder: a CAN-BIND 1 report
Authors: Yrondi Antoine , Fiori Laura M. , Nogovitsyn Nikita , Hassel Stefanie , Théroux Jean François , Aouabed Zahia , Frey Benicio N. , Lam Raymond W. , Milev Roumen , Müller Daniel J. , Foster Jane A. , Soares Claudio , Rotzinger Susan , Strother Stephen C. , MacQueen Glenda M. , Arnott Stephen R. , Davis Andrew D. , Zamyadi Mojdeh , Harris Jacqueline , Kennedy Sidney H. , Turecki Gustavo
Published: September 2021

The pathophysiology of major depressive disorder (MDD) encompasses an array of changes at molecular and neurobiological levels. As chronic stress promotes neurotoxicity there are alterations in the expression of genes and gene-regulatory molecules. The hippocampus is particularly sensitive to the effects of stress and its posterior volumes can deliver clinically valuable information about the outcomes of antidepressant treatment. In the present work, we analyzed individuals with MDD (N = 201) and healthy controls (HC = 104), as part of the CAN-BIND-1 study. We used magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to measure hippocampal volumes, evaluated gene expression with RNA sequencing, and assessed DNA methylation with the (Infinium MethylationEpic Beadchip), in order to investigate the association between hippocampal volume and both RNA expression and DNA methylation. We identified 60 RNAs which were differentially expressed between groups. Of these, 21 displayed differential methylation, and seven displayed a correlation between methylation and expression. We found a negative association between expression of Brain Abundant Membrane Attached Signal Protein 1 antisense 1 RNA (BASP1-AS1) and right hippocampal tail volume in the MDD group (β = −0.218, p = 0.021). There was a moderating effect of the duration of the current episode on the association between the expression of BASP1-AS1 and right hippocampal tail volume in the MDD group (β = −0.48, 95% C.I. [−0.80, −0.16]. t = −2.95 p = 0.004). In conclusion, we found that overexpression of BASP1-AS1 was correlated with DNA methylation, and was negatively associated with right tail hippocampal volume in MDD.
Trade-offs between individual and ensemble forecasts of an emerging infectious disease
Authors: Oidtman Rachel J. , Omodei Elisa , Kraemer Moritz U. G. , Castañeda-Orjuela Carlos A. , Cruz-Rivera Erica , Misnaza-Castrillón Sandra , Cifuentes Myriam Patricia , Rincon Luz Emilse , Cañon Viviana , Alarcon Pedro de , España Guido , Huber John H. , Hill Sarah C. , Barker Christopher M. , Johansson Michael A. , Manore Carrie A. , Reiner, Robert C. , Rodriguez-Barraquer Isabel , Siraj Amir S. , Frias-Martinez Enrique , García-Herranz Manuel , Perkins T. Alex
Published: September 2021

Probabilistic forecasts play an indispensable role in answering questions about the spread of newly emerged pathogens. However, uncertainties about the epidemiology of emerging pathogens can make it difficult to choose among alternative model structures and assumptions. To assess the potential for uncertainties about emerging pathogens to affect forecasts of their spread, we evaluated the performance 16 forecasting models in the context of the 2015-2016 Zika epidemic in Colombia. Each model featured a different combination of assumptions about human mobility, spatiotemporal variation in transmission potential, and the number of virus introductions. We found that which model assumptions had the most ensemble weight changed through time. We additionally identified a trade-off whereby some individual models outperformed ensemble models early in the epidemic, but on average the ensembles outperformed all individual models. Our results suggest that multiple models spanning uncertainty across alternative assumptions are necessary to obtain robust forecasts for emerging infectious diseases.
Inhibition of CK1ε potentiates the therapeutic efficacy of CDK4/6 inhibitor in breast cancer
Authors: Dang Fabin , Nie Li , Zhou Jin , Shimizu Kouhei , Chu Chen , Wu Zhong , Fassl Anne , Ke Shizhong , Wang Yuangao , Zhang Jinfang , Zhang Tao , Tu Zhenbo , Inuzuka Hiroyuki , Sicinski Piotr , Bass Adam J. , Wei Wenyi
Published: September 2021

Although inhibitors targeting CDK4/6 kinases (CDK4/6i) have shown promising clinical prospect in treating ER+/HER2- breast cancers, acquired drug resistance is frequently observed and mechanistic knowledge is needed to harness their full clinical potential. Here, we report that inhibition of CDK4/6 promotes βTrCP1-mediated ubiquitination and proteasomal degradation of RB1, and facilitates SP1-mediated CDK6 transcriptional activation. Intriguingly, suppression of CK1ε not only efficiently prevents RB1 from degradation, but also prevents CDK4/6i-induced CDK6 upregulation by modulating SP1 protein stability, thereby enhancing CDK4/6i efficacy and overcoming resistance to CDK4/6i in vitro. Using xenograft and PDX models, we further demonstrate that combined inhibition of CK1ε and CDK4/6 results in marked suppression of tumor growth in vivo. Altogether, these results uncover the molecular mechanisms by which CDK4/6i treatment alters RB1 and CDK6 protein abundance, thereby driving the acquisition of CDK4/6i resistance. Importantly, we identify CK1ε as an effective target for potentiating the therapeutic efficacy of CDK4/6 inhibitors.
Observation of higher-order non-Hermitian skin effect
Authors: Zhang Xiujuan , Tian Yuan , Jiang Jian-Hua , Lu Ming-Hui , Chen Yan-Feng
Published: September 2021

Beyond the scope of Hermitian physics, non-Hermiticity fundamentally changes the topological band theory, leading to interesting phenomena, e.g., non-Hermitian skin effect, as confirmed in one-dimensional systems. However, in higher dimensions, these effects remain elusive. Here, we demonstrate the spin-polarized, higher-order non-Hermitian skin effect in two-dimensional acoustic higher-order topological insulators. We find that non-Hermiticity drives wave localizations toward opposite edges upon different spin polarizations. More interestingly, for finite systems with both edges and corners, the higher-order non-Hermitian skin effect leads to wave localizations toward two opposite corners for all the bulk, edge and corner states in a spin-dependent manner. We further show that such a skin effect enables rich wave manipulation by configuring the non-Hermiticity. Our study reveals the intriguing interplay between higher-order topology and non-Hermiticity, which is further enriched by the pseudospin degree of freedom, unveiling a horizon in the study of non-Hermitian physics.
The potential utility of hybrid photo-crosslinked hydrogels with non-immunogenic component for cartilage repair
Authors: Wang Yili , Koole Levinus Hendrik , Gao Chenyuan , Yang Dejun , Yang Lei , Zhang Chunwu , Li Huaqiong
Published: September 2021

Finding a suitable biomaterial for scaffolding in cartilage tissue engineering has proved to be far from trivial. Nonetheless, it is clear that biomimetic approaches based on gelatin (Gel) and hyaluronic acid (HA) have particular promise. Herein, a set of formulations consisting of photo-polymerizable Gel; photo-polymerizable HA, and allogenic decellularized cartilage matrix (DCM), is synthesized and characterized. The novelty of this study lies particularly in the choice of DCM, which was harvested from an abnormal porcine with α-1,3-galactose gene knockout. The hybrid hydrogels were prepared and studied extensively, by spectroscopic methods, for their capacity to imbibe water, for their behavior under compression, and to characterize microstructure. Subsequently, the effects of the hydrogels on contacting cells (in vitro) were studied, i.e., cytotoxicity, morphology, and differentiation through monitoring the specific markers ACAN, Sox9, Coll2, and Col2α1, hypertrophy through monitoring the specific markers alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and Col 10A1. In vivo performance of the hydrogels was assessed in a rat knee cartilage defect model. The new data expand our understanding of hydrogels built of Gel and HA, since they reveal that a significant augmenting role can be played by DCM. The data strongly suggest that further experimentation in larger cartilage-defect animal models is worthwhile and has potential utility for tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.