bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Paraneoplastic or not? Sirtuin 2 in anti‐N‐methyl‐d‐aspartate receptor encephalitis
Authors: Stevens‐Jones Oskar , Mojzisova Hana , Elisak Martin , Constantinescu Radu , Hanzalova Jitka , Axelsson Markus , Krysl David
Published: July 2023

Background and purpose

N‐methyl‐d‐aspartate receptor (NMDAR) and leucine‐rich glioma‐inactivated protein 1 (LGI1) encephalitis are important types of autoimmune encephalitis (AE) with significant morbidity. In this study, we used a proteomic approach in search of novel clinically relevant biomarkers in these types of encephalitides.

Methods

Swedish and Czech tertiary neuroimmunology centers collaborated in this retrospective exploratory study. Fifty‐eight cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) samples of 28 patients with AE (14 definite NMDAR, 14 with definite LGI1 encephalitis) and 30 controls were included. CSF samples were analyzed using proximity extension assay technology (Olink Target 96 Inflammation panel). For each CSF sample, 92 proteins were measured. Clinical variables were retrospectively collected, and correlations with protein levels were statistically analyzed.

Results

Patients and controls differed significantly in the following 18 biomarkers: TNFRSF9, TNFRSF12, TNFRSF14, TNFβ, TNFα, IL7, IL10, IL12B, IFNγ, CD5, CD6, CASP8, MMP1, CXCL8, CXCL10, CXCL11, IL20RA, and sirtuin 2 (SIRT2). In LGI1 encephalitis, no clinically useful association was found between biomarkers and clinical variables. In the NMDAR encephalitis group, SIRT2, TNFβ, and CD5 were significantly associated with ovarian teratoma. For SIRT2, this was true even for the first patients' CSF sample (SIRT2 without vs. with tumor, mean ± SD = 2.2 ± 0.29 vs. 2.88 ± 0.48; p = 0.007, 95% confidence interval = −1.15 to −0.22; r statistic in point‐biserial correlation (rpb) = 0.66, p = 0.011). SIRT2 was positively correlated with age (rpb = 0.39, p = 0.018) and total hospital days (r = 0.55, p = <0.001).

Conclusions

SIRT2 should be investigated as a biomarker of paraneoplastic etiology in NMDAR encephalitis.
Introduction of reversible cysteine ligation ability to the biliverdin‐binding cyanobacteriochrome photoreceptor
Authors: Suzuki Takahisa , Yoshimura Masataka , Hoshino Hiroki , Fushimi Keiji , Arai Munehito , Narikawa Rei
Published: July 2023

Cyanobacteriochrome (CBCR) photoreceptors are distantly related to the canonical red/far‐red reversible phytochrome photoreceptors. In the case of the CBCRs, only the GAF domain is required for chromophore incorporation and photoconversion. The GAF domains of CBCR are highly diversified into many lineages to sense various colors of light. These CBCR GAF domains are divided into two types: those possessing only the canonical Cys residue and those with both canonical and second Cys residues. The canonical Cys residue stably ligates to the chromophore in both cases. The second Cys residue mostly shows reversible adduct formation with the chromophore during photoconversion for spectral tuning. In this study, we focused on the CBCR GAF domain AnPixJg2_BV4, which possesses only the canonical Cys residue. AnPixJg2_BV4 covalently ligates to the biliverdin (BV) chromophore and shows far‐red/orange reversible photoconversion. Because BV is a mammalian intrinsic chromophore, BV‐binding molecules are advantageous for in vivo optogenetic and bioimaging tool development. To obtain a better developmental platform molecule, we performed site‐saturation random mutagenesis and serendipitously obtained a unique variant molecule that showed far‐red/blue reversible photoconversion, in which the Cys residue was introduced near the chromophore. This introduced Cys residue functioned as the second Cys residue that reversibly ligated with the chromophore. Because the position of the introduced Cys residue is distinct from the known second Cys residues, the variant molecule obtained in this study would expand our knowledge about the spectral tuning mechanism of CBCRs and contribute to tool development.
Mycorrhizae enhance reactive minerals but reduce mineral‐associated carbon
Authors: Li Huan , Yu Guang‐Hui , Hao Liping , Qiu Yunpeng , Hu Shuijin
Published: July 2023

Soil organic carbon (C) is the largest active C pool of Earth's surface and is thus vital in sustaining terrestrial productivity and climate stability. Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) form symbioses with most terrestrial plants and critically modulate soil C dynamics. Yet, it remains unclear whether and how AMF–root associations (i.e., mycorrhizae) interact with soil minerals to affect soil C cycling. Here we showed that the presence of both roots and AMF increased soil dissolved organic C and reactive Fe minerals, as well as litter decomposition and soil CO2 emissions. However, it reduced mineral‐associated C. Also, high‐resolution nanoscale secondary ion mass spectrometry images showed the existence of a thin coating (0.5–1.0 μm thick) of 56Fe16O− (Fe minerals) on the surface of 12C14N− (fungal biomass), illustrating the close physical association between fungal hyphae and soil Fe minerals. In addition, AMF genera were divergently related to reactive Fe minerals, with Glomus being positively but Paraglomus and Acaulospora negatively correlated with reactive Fe minerals. Moreover, the presence of roots and AMF, particularly when combined with litter addition, enhanced the abundances of several critical soil bacterial genera that are associated with the formation of reactive minerals in soils. A conceptual framework was further proposed to illustrate how AMF–root associations impact soil C cycling in the rhizosphere. Briefly, root exudates and the inoculated AMF not only stimulated the decomposition of litter and SOC and promoted the production of CO2 emission, but also drove soil C persistence by unlocking mineral elements and promoting the formation of reactive minerals. Together, these findings provide new insights into the mechanisms that underlie the formation of reactive minerals and have significant implications for understanding and managing soil C persistence.
Small grassland fragments and connectivity support high arthropod functional diversity in highly modified landscapes
Authors: Korányi Dávid , Gallé Róbert , Torma Attila , Gallé‐Szpisjak Nikolett , Batáry Péter
Published: July 2023

Grassland ecosystems undergo dramatic habitat loss and fragmentation worldwide due to agricultural expansion and intensification. Among different taxonomic groups, grassland arthropods are particularly sensitive to this process and, therefore, are exposed to considerable risk.

Although many studies focus on land use impacts on arthropod diversity, these mostly consider taxonomic diversity and neglect trait‐mediated functional responses. However, studying functional diversity often provides more accurate insights into ecosystem processes.

Here, we assessed the effect of fragment size and connectivity on the functional composition (community‐weighted mean trait values) and diversity (Rao's quadratic entropy) of two diverse and abundant arthropod groups: spiders and true bugs. We assigned functional traits for more than 300 species collected from 30 sandy steppe (forest‐steppes) and 30 loess steppe fragments (kurgans) in the southern part of the Hungarian Great Plain.

Functional responses to fragmentation were observed for spiders in forest‐steppes and for true bugs in kurgans. We found higher functional diversity in better‐connected fragments for spiders and in small fragments for both groups. We collected small, humidity‐preferring and web‐building spiders in small fragments, and there were more ballooning spiders with moist habitat preferences in well‐connected fragments. Furthermore, increasing grassland connectivity resulted in a significantly higher proportion of polyphagous and humidity‐preferring individuals in the true bug communities.

Our results highlight the importance of small grassland fragments in maintaining high arthropod functional diversity. Even small fragments in a well‐connected grassland network can promote ecosystem functioning and associated services within human‐dominated landscapes.
Epidemiology of pressure ulcers in Le Mans General Hospital between 1996 and 2019: Impact of a dedicated “Pressure ulcer, Wounds and Healing” task force
Authors: Marchon Louis , Maillard Hervé
Published: July 2023

Pressure ulcers (PUs) are one of the most important care‐related ailments, making their prevention a pressing concern for hospital structures. Epidemiology of PU is interesting to adapt human resources and observe the impact of targeted public health measures. Very few data are presented in the French literature. In this context, a dedicated “Pressure ulcer, Wounds and Healing” task force was created in 1996 by a multidisciplinary team of physicians, administrative staff, and paramedics in the CH of Le Mans. Alongside this, an annual prevalence study was performed between 1996 and 2019 in CH of Le Mans, collecting relevant data: the number of patients who presented pressure ulcers, the number of patients who were at risk of developing pressure ulcers, and the severity of these ulcers. This study brings new data about PU epidemiology in France and shows a significant decrease in the prevalence, becoming lower than the national prevalence. Also, a significant time‐related regression of the prevalence was observed, the severity level continually decreased whereas the number of geriatric patients grew and patients with PU's risk remained constant. Finally, the number of patients who developed a PU within the hospitalization decreased too. We observed a link between the creation of the task force and the evolution of pressure ulcer epidemiology, thus recommending that the same practices be adopted in other hospitals and fields of application.
COVID‐19 and primary wound healing: A new insights and advance
Authors: Li Danyi , Cao Wenjie , Zhou Qun , Wu Xiaomin , Song Xiayun , Qin Haofang
Published: July 2023

With the outbreak and pandemic of coronavirus disease‐2019 (COVID‐19), a huge number of people died of it. Apart from lung injuries, multiple organs have been confirmed to be impaired. In COVID‐19 time, primary wound healing processes always prolong, however, its possible underlying mechanisms are still unclear. Therefore, to overcome this clinical problem, clarifying its underlying mechanisms clearly is necessary and urgently needed. In this review, we summarized that COVID‐19 can prolong primary wound healing by inducing excessive inflammation and oxidative stress, disturbing immune system and haematological system, as well as influencing the functions and viability of epidermal stem cells (ESCs). Otherwise, we summarized that the strict control measures of blocking up COVID‐19 pandemic can also have side effects on primary wound healing process.
Phase transition monitoring and temperature sensing via FIR technology in Bi/Sm‐codoped KNN transparent ceramics
Authors: Zhou Ping , Yu Fangyuan , Zeng Xiangfu , Gao Min , Zhao Chunlin , Lin Cong , Lin Tengfei , Luo Laihui , Lin Jinfeng , Wu Xiao
Published: July 2023

The phase transition temperature (e.g., that of orthorhombic‐tetragonal TO‐T) of relaxor ferroelectrics are commonly obtained through electrical method (i.e., temperature dependence of dielectric constant), and the samples need to be coated with metal electrode and tested by a sophisticated impedance analyzer. This contact measuring method is inefficient, inconvenient and easy to damage the sample surface, inapplicable to transparent ferroelectrics. Here, we successfully fabricated Bi/Sm co‐doped K0.5Na0.5NbO3 transparent ceramics with photoluminescent behavior and relaxor‐like ferroelectricity, which simultaneously realized TO‐T monitoring and temperature sensing via fluorescence intensity ratio (FIR) technology. This simple, rapid, noncontact and nondestructive optical way displays small TO‐T deviation (merely 0.78%) compared to the electrical method. And the temperature‐dependent optical characteristics and coercive electric field all present abrupt changes, whose abnormal temperature regions are in accordance with that around TO‐T. In addition, the maximum absolute sensitivity and relative sensitivity of the ceramics reach 0.0072 K−1 (at 533 K) and 0.0111 K−1 (at 453 K), respectively, exhibiting superior optical temperature sensing performance. The tactical use of FIR technology is of great significance for widening the applications of luminescent‐ferroelectric transparent ceramics.
Mg and Al mixed effects on thermal properties in aluminosilicate glasses
Authors: Ke Xuefei , Wang Xiaowei , Wang Yadan , Ren Xiaoming , Tao Haizheng
Published: July 2023

By using the aerodynamic levitation and laser melting technique to well extend the glass‐forming region into the Mg‐rich and peraluminous regime, a series of magnesium aluminosilicate glasses were prepared to investigate the Mg and Al mixed effects on thermal properties, including glass transition temperature (Tg), crystallization behavior, and thermal stability. With the gradual substitution of Mg by Al, Tg exhibits two types of near‐linear rises with different slopes in two compositional regions separated by r = 0.57, where r is equal to the molar ratio of [Al2O3]/([Al2O3] + [MgO]). Moreover, when it comes to other properties, that is, crystallization behavior and thermal stability, this critical point precisely appears at the same r = 0.57. Compared to the slower increase of Tg in Mg‐rich region, the steeper rise of Tg in the peraluminous region is mainly ascribed to the step‐by‐step formation of oxygen triclusters driven by Pauling's second rule. Moreover, the occurrence of the critical point for Tg rise at r = 0.57 rather than the theoretical 0.5 can be seen as a proof of the role of Mg cations partly as a network former.
Online Hate: Is Hate an Infectious Disease? Is Social Media a Promoter?
Authors: Popa‐Wyatt Mihaela
Published: July 2023

Our time is marked by a resurgence of hate that threatens to increase oppression. Social media has contributed to this by acting as a medium through which hate speech is spread. How should we model the spread of hate? This article considers two models. First, I consider a simple contagion model. In this model, hate spreads like a virus through a social network. This model, however, fails to capture the fact that people do not acquire hatred from a single infectious contact. Instead, it builds up in a person's beliefs and attitudes through time until the infection reaches a level where the subject themselves becomes a generator of hate speech. Second, to accommodate this, I consider an alternative model known ascomplex contagion. I argue that not only is a complex contagion model more explanatory and predictive, but it can be used to explain why certain features of social media cause it to be a promoter of hate. I conclude by sketching some mitigation strategies.
Technology first: The impact on technology availability for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities
Authors: Friedman Carli
Published: July 2023

Background

In the United States, 16 states have adopted Technology First initiatives to improve people with intellectual and developmental disabilities' access to technology.

Method

Our aim was to examine if Technology First initiatives impact the allocation of technology in Home and Community‐Based Services (HCBS) for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. To do so, we analysed HCBS programs from across the United States in fiscal year 2021.

Results

Technology First states were more likely to offer telehealth service delivery in their HCBS programs. However, we found few other significant differences in allocation of technology – the number of people receiving and projected spending – based on states' Technology First status.

Conclusions

While these findings do not mean that there is no value in Technology First initiatives, it appears these initiatives have yet to truly impact resource allocation when it comes to HCBS.
SNORA73B promotes endometrial cancer progression through targeting MIB1 and regulating host gene RCC1 alternative splicing
Authors: Chen Xi , Li Qian‐hui , Xie Bu‐min , Ji Yu‐meng , Han Yang , Zhao Yang
Published: July 2023

Endometrial cancer (EC) is a common gynaecological malignant tumour with unclear pathogenesis. Small nucleolar RNA (snoRNA) is involved in many biological processes, including those of cancers. Using the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database, the expression pattern of a snoRNA, SNORA73B, was analysed. The biological functions of SNORA73B were assessed by in vitro proliferation, apoptosis, migration, and invasion assays and in vivo by the xenograft model. RNA sequencing (RNA‐seq) and RNA immunoprecipitation assays were performed to determine the relationship between SNORA73B and its target genes. High‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) was performed to detect the pseudouridine content of the mindbomb E3 ubiquitin protein ligase 1 gene (MIB1). The stability of MIB1 mRNA was evaluated using a transcription inhibitor, actinomycin D. By performing co‐immunoprecipitation assays, the change in the ubiquitin levels of the Jagged canonical Notch ligand 1 (Jag 1), caused by SNORA73B and MIB1, was identified. RNA‐seq and qRT‐PCR were performed to detect the alternative splicing of the regulator of the chromosome condensation 1 gene (RCC1). The TCGA database analysis showed that SNORA73B was highly expressed in EC. SNORA73B promoted cell proliferation, migration, and invasion and inhibited apoptosis. SNORA73B modified the pseudouridine content in MIB1 and increased the stability of MIB1 mRNA and protein; thus, it affected Jag 1 ubiquitination and further activated the Notch pathway. SNORA73B also affected the alternative splicing of RCC1, increasing the number of transcripts, RCC1‐T2 and RCC1‐T3, which promoted cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. SNORA73B can be a potential target for EC.
An improved anisotropic continuum model for the flow and heat transfer in grain aeration system
Authors: Liu Wenlei , Chen Guixiang , Zheng Deqian , Ge Mengmeng , Liu Chaosai
Published: July 2023

To investigate the influence of pore structure distribution on the flow and heat transfer during the aeration process of a grain pile, an anisotropic continuous model (ACM) was developed based on the homogeneous continuous model (HCM). The improved ACM includes spatial resistance factors and effective thermal conductivity correction coefficients. The experimental results were compared with the particle‐resolved computational fluid dynamics (PRCFD) and ACM simulation results to verify the accuracy. At higher inlet velocities, the HCM underestimated the pressure drop in the wheat fixed bed, with an average deviation of 21%. In contrast, the improved ACM incorporates the effect of resistance factors and had an average deviation of less than 10% from the experimental. By simulating the pilot‐scale bin aeration system, the accuracy of the improved ACM applied to the real bin was ensured, considering the change in the porosity of the grain pile along the center of the bin to the bin wall and the grain pile height direction. The range of variable porosity distribution was set at .35–.45, and the total average deviation between the ACM simulation static pressure and the experimental value was 9.7% when the inlet airflow velocity was .019 m/s. The simulated temperature of the ACM matches the measured temperature better compared to the temperature values of the grain pile at different heights in the HCM with a constant porosity of .45. Therefore, the impact of four central air collection duct forms on airflow and temperature was discussed, and it was determined that the pipe with a larger diameter at the top and a smaller diameter at the bottom air collection duct was more advantageous when used in a horizontal aeration system by applying the improved ACM to different scenarios.

Practical Applications

This study introduces the resistance factor and effective thermal conductivity in a laboratory‐scale fixed bed of wheat. An improved anisotropic continuous model was established for simulating the flow and heat transfer in the fixed bed during the aeration process. The improved anisotropic continuous model accurately reflected the non‐uniformity of fixed bed flow and temperature transfer in the fixed bed. This model can be employed for simulating flow and heat transfer in large‐scale actual storage systems characterized by heterogeneous pore distribution, while ensuring appropriate computational efficiency and precision.
Impaired facial emotion recognition in relation to social behaviours in de novo Parkinson's disease
Authors: Slomp Anne Carien , van der Zee Sygrid , Boertien Jeffrey M. , Gerritsen Marleen J. J. , van Laar Teus , Spikman Jacoba M.
Published: July 2023

Facial emotion recognition (FER) is a crucial component of social cognition and is essential in social‐interpersonal behaviour regulation. Although FER impairment is well‐established in advanced PD, data about FER at the time of diagnosis and its relationship with social behavioural problems in daily life are lacking. The aim was to examine FER at the time of PD diagnosis compared to a matched healthy control (HC) group and to associate FER with indices of social behavioural problems. In total, 142 de novo, treatment‐naïve PD patients and 142 HC were included. FER was assessed by the Ekman 60 faces test (EFT). Behavioural problems in PD patients were assessed using the Dysexecutive Questionnaire (DEX‐self and DEX‐proxy) and the Apathy Evaluation Scale (AES‐self). PD patients had significantly lower EFT‐total scores (p = .001) compared to HC, with worse recognition of Disgust (p = .001) and Sadness (p = .016). Correlational analyses yielded significant correlations between AES‐self and both EFT‐total (rs = .28) and Fear (rs = .22). Significant negative correlations were found between DEX‐proxy and both EFT‐total (rs = −.28) and Anger (rs = −.26). Analyses of DEX‐subscales showed that proxy ratings were significantly higher than patient‐ratings for the Social Conventions subscale (p = .047). This DEX‐proxy subscale had the strongest correlation with EFT‐total (rs = −.29). Results show that de novo PD patients already show impaired FER compared to HC. In addition, lower FER is linked to self‐reported apathy and proxy‐reported social‐behavioural problems, especially concerning social conventions. These findings validate the importance of the inclusion of social cognition measures in the neuropsychological assessment even in early PD.
Period Power: Organizational Stigma, Multimodality, and Social Entrepreneurship in the Menstrual Products Industry
Authors: Werner Mirjam D. , Punzi Maria Carmen , Turkenburg A. J. K.
Published: July 2023

In this article, we contribute to the recent direction in the organizational stigma literature that focuses on stigma as providing opportunities for organizations. Drawing on a qualitative abductive study of 90 social enterprises in the menstrual products industry, we extend the literature by showing how the organizational form of social enterprises allows them to put the societal issue of menstruation stigma at the core of their ventures. Specifically, we find that these social enterprises take a disruptive strategy, and we elaborate on the tactics of normalization and moralization on which they draw by highlighting the essential role of multimodality in the process of destigmatizing menstruation. In light of the tabooed nature of menstruation, this multimodal approach is key to challenging existing hidden, taken‐for‐granted norms around menstruation and supplanting them with alternative ones. Our study has important implications for the literatures on organizational stigma, social enterprises, and multimodality and points to their strong conceptual complementarity for understanding processes of societal change.
Gender Differences in Help‐Seeking: A Meta‐analysis of Japanese Studies, Including Unreported Data1
Authors: Nagai Satoru , Kimura Masato , Honda Masahiro , Iida Toshiharu , Mizuno Haruhisa
Published: July 2023

This meta‐analysis integrated and analyzed previous Japanese findings on gender differences in help‐seeking intentions and attitudes. We searched relevant studies using the Citation Information by the National Institute of Informatics database and identified 85 articles. We also analyzed unreported statistical information provided by the primary authors of these studies. The results indicated that women had a higher tendency of intentions to seek help than men (d = −0.143, 95% CI [−0.196, −0.091], k = 64, n = 29,256). Further analysis of the types of help‐seeking showed that women intended to seek help only from friends and family members. In contrast, university students intended to seek help from psychological professionals, physicians, and other formal sources for depressive symptoms, and this intention was higher among male students. Moreover, women had more favorable attitudes about seeking help than men (d = −0.092, 95% CI [−0.156, −0.027], k = 30, n = 11,536). Furthermore, several analyses indicated heterogeneity. However, we could not identify specific potential moderators. We also found that gender differences were smaller in studies that assessed help‐seeking intentions using unvalidated measures.
Bifidobacterium animalis subspecies lactisHN019 can reduce the sequelae of experimental periodontitis in rats modulating intestinal parameters, expression of lipogenic genes, and levels of hepatic steatosis
Authors: Moreira André L. G. , Silva Giselle A. , Silva Pedro H. F. , Salvador Sérgio L. , Vicente Raphael M. , Ferreira Graziele C. , Tanus‐Santos Jose E. , Mayer Marcia P. A. , Ishikawa Karin H. , de Souza Sérgio Luís Scombatti , Furlaneto Flávia A. C. , Messora Michel R.
Published: July 2023

Objective

To determine whether Bifidobacterium animalis subspecies lactis HN019 (B. lactis HN019) can reduce the sequelae of experimental periodontitis (EP) in rats modulating systemic parameters.

Background

This study evaluated the effects of probiotic therapy (PROB) in the prevention of local and systemic damage resulting from EP.

Methods

Forty‐eight rats were allocated into four groups: C (control), PROB, EP, and EP‐PROB. PROB (1 × 1010 CFU/mL) administration lasted 8 weeks and PE was induced on the 7th week by placing ligature on the animals' lower first molars. All animals were euthanized in the 9th week of the experiment. Biomolecular analyses, RT‐PCR, and histomorphometric analyses were performed. The data obtained were analyzed statistically (ANOVA, Tukey, p < .05).

Results

The EP group had higher dyslipidemia when compared to the C group, as well as higher levels of insulin resistance, proteinuria levels, percentages of systolic blood pressure, percentage of fatty hepatocytes in the liver, and expression of adipokines was up‐regulated (LEPR, NAMPT, and FABP4). All these parameters (except insulin resistance, systolic blood pressure, LEPR and FABP4 gene expression) were reduced in the EP‐PROB group when compared to the EP group. The EP group had lower villus height and crypt depth, as well as a greater reduction in Bacteroidetes and a greater increase in Firmicutes when compared to the EP‐PROB group. Greater alveolar bone loss was observed in the EP group when compared to the EP‐PROB group.

Conclusion

Bifidobacterium lactis HN019 can reduce the sequelae of EP in rats modulating intestinal parameters, attenuating expression of lipogenic genes and hepatic steatosis.
English Learners’ Performance on a Measure of Dyslexia Risk
Authors: Rhinehart Laura V. , Gotlieb Rebecca J. M.
Published: July 2023

Many schools now screen students for dyslexia in early grades. However, there are valid concerns that these screeners may be biased or ineffective at screening students who are not yet proficient in English (i.e., English Learners; ELs). The present study examined the performance of 54 first graders on a dyslexia screener. Results showed that students who were ELs performed similarly to their peers who were proficient in English on many literacy subskills. Additionally, we found that EL students were not significantly more likely to be “flagged” as at risk for dyslexia. These findings have practical implications for using universal screeners to identify students, including students who are designated ELs, as being at risk for learning disabilities, including dyslexia.
Insurance–finance arbitrage
Authors: Artzner Philippe , Eisele Karl‐Theodor , Schmidt Thorsten
Published: July 2023

Most insurance contracts are inherently linked to financial markets, be it via interest rates, or—as hybrid products like equity‐linked life insurance and variable annuities—directly to stocks or indices. However, insurance contracts are not for trade except sometimes as surrender to the selling office. This excludes the situation of arbitrage by buying and selling insurance contracts at different prices. Furthermore, the insurer uses private information on top of the publicly available one about financial markets. This paper provides a study of the consistency of insurance contracts in connection with trades in the financial market with explicit mention of the information involved.

By defining strategies on an insurance portfolio and combining them with financial trading strategies, we arrive at the notion of insurance–finance arbitrage (IFA). In analogy to the classical fundamental theorem of asset pricing, we give a fundamental theorem on the absence of IFA, leading to the existence of an insurance–finance‐consistent probability. In addition, we study when this probability gives the expected discounted cash‐flows required by the EIOPA best estimate.

The generality of our approach allows to incorporate many important aspects, like mortality risk or general levels of dependence between mortality and stock markets. Utilizing the theory of enlargements of filtrations, we construct a tractable framework for insurance–finance consistent valuation.
A new type of phasin characterized by the presence of a helix‐hairpin‐helix domain is required for normal polyhydroxybutyrate accumulation and granule organization in Caulobacter crescentus
Authors: Salinas Ana Laura , Osorio Aurora , Legorreta‐Hissner Tonatiuh , Lara‐Martinez Reyna , Jimenez‐Garcia Luis Felipe , Camarena Laura , Poggio Sebastian
Published: July 2023

Bacteria frequently store excess carbon in hydrophobic granules of polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) that in some growth conditions can occupy most of the cytoplasmic space. Different types of proteins associate to the surface of the granules, mainly enzymes involved in the synthesis and utilization of the reserve polymer and a diverse group of proteins known as phasins. Phasins have different functions, among which are regulating the size and number of the granules, modulating the activity of the granule‐associated enzymes and helping in the distribution of the granules inside the cell. Caulobacter crescentus is an oligotrophic bacterium that shows several morphological and regulatory traits that allow it to grow in very nutrient‐diluted environments. Under these conditions, storage compounds should be particularly relevant for survival. In this work, we show an initial proteomic characterization of the PHB granules and describe a new type of phasin (PhaH) characterized by the presence of an N‐terminal hydrophobic helix followed by a helix‐hairpin‐helix (HhH) domain. The hydrophobic helix is required for maximal PHB accumulation and maintenance during the stationary phase while the HhH domain is involved in determining the size of the PHB granules and their distribution in the cell.
A case of Epstein–Barr virus infection presenting with facial nerve palsy following the precursor condition of hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis
Authors: Ando Yuya , Kadoya Masato , Yoshioka Mikio , Murahara Nami , Fujii Hiroko , Takechi Chizuko , Aono Shigeaki
Published: July 2023

A 25‐year‐old man with infectious mononucleosis caused by Epstein–Barr virus infection developed facial nerve palsy. He was admitted to the hospital due to prolonged fever with liver enzyme elevations, diagnosed as primary Epstein–Barr virus infection. During conservative management, his fever and liver dysfunction persisted, with elevated serum inflammatory marker levels, and the precursor state of Epstein–Barr virus‐associated hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis was suspected. Although his symptoms and liver dysfunction trended toward amelioration after short‐term prednisolone, left‐sided facial palsy developed acutely. Facial palsy was considered Epstein–Barr virus infection‐related, and he recovered within 1 month following additional steroid therapy. Given the presence of the precursor condition of hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis just prior to facial palsy, hypercytokinemia was considered a possible pathogenic mechanism for the facial palsy. In patients with Epstein–Barr virus infection, facial palsy may occur independently of the recovery of other symptoms, and cytokine disturbance may affect its development.
Host plant height explains the effect of nitrogen enrichment on arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal communities
Authors: Cheng Yikang , Rutten Gemma , Liu Xiang , Ma Miaojun , Song Zhiping , Maaroufi Nadia I. , Zhou Shurong
Published: July 2023

Nitrogen (N) enrichment is widely known to affect the root‐associated arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal (AMF) community in different ways, for example, via altering soil properties and/or shifting host plant functional structure. However, empirical knowledge of their relative importance is still lacking.

Using a long‐term N addition experiment, we measured the AMF community taxonomic and phylogenetic diversity at the single plant species (roots of 15 plant species) and plant community (mixed roots) levels. We also measured four functional traits of 35 common plant species along the N addition gradient.

We found divergent responses of AMF diversity to N addition for host plants with different innate heights (i.e. plant natural height under unfertilized treatment). Furthermore, our data showed that species‐specific responses of AMF diversity to N addition were negatively related to the change in maximum plant height. When scaling up to the community level, N addition affected AMF diversity mainly through increasing the maximum plant height, rather than altering soil properties.

Our results highlight the importance of plant height in driving AMF community dynamics under N enrichment at both species and community levels, thus providing important implications for understanding the response of AMF diversity to anthropogenic N deposition.
Common environmental stress responses in a model marine diatom
Authors: Li Zhengke , Zhang Yong , Li Wei , Irwin Andrew J. , Finkel Zoe V.
Published: July 2023

Marine planktonic diatoms are among the most important contributors to phytoplankton blooms and marine net primary production. Their ecological success has been attributed to their ability to rapidly respond to changing environmental conditions.

Here, we report common molecular mechanisms used by the model marine diatom Thalassiosira pseudonana to respond to 10 diverse environmental stressors using RNA‐Seq analysis.

We identify a specific subset of 1076 genes that are differentially expressed in response to stressors that induce an imbalance between energy or resource supply and metabolic capacity, which we termed the diatom environmental stress response (d‐ESR). The d‐ESR is primarily composed of genes that maintain proteome homeostasis and primary metabolism. Photosynthesis is strongly regulated in response to environmental stressors but chloroplast‐encoded genes were predominantly upregulated while the nuclear‐encoded genes were mostly downregulated in response to low light and high temperature.

In aggregate, these results provide insight into the molecular mechanisms used by diatoms to respond to a range of environmental perturbations and the unique role of the chloroplast in managing environmental stress in diatoms. This study facilitates our understanding of the molecular mechanisms underpinning the ecological success of diatoms in the ocean.
A case study of the long‐term sustainability of an oral health program for persons experiencing homelessness
Authors: Lashley Mary
Published: July 2023

Stakeholders engaged in funding health programs and investing in human capital are concerned that their investments lead to beneficial long‐term outcomes and do not fade from existence when funding streams dry up. However, dissemination and implementation researchers often pay little attention to what happens after programs are implemented. An essential function of the public health nurse operating at the executive management or leadership level is to evaluate overall effectiveness, quality, and sustainability of programs and to design systems‐level quality initiatives and evaluation plans that foster program sustainability. This article applies a conceptual framework for sustainability to an oral health program serving persons experiencing homelessness, exploring the essential programmatic, community, and organizational factors that have positively impacted the long‐term sustainability of the program. Lessons learned from a model program that has thrived in a political and economic resource poor climate may assist the public health nurse in planning and developing health programs that can withstand the test of time even in the most challenging of circumstances.
Serum anti‐Spike immunoglobulin G levels in random blood donors in Italy: High‐titre convalescent plasma is easier than ever to procure
Authors: Focosi Daniele , Meschi Silvia , Coen Sabrina , Iorio Maria Carla , Franchini Massimo , Lanza Maria , Maggi Fabrizio
Published: July 2023

Background and Objectives

COVID‐19 convalescent plasma (CCP) has retained potency and clinical efficacy against SARS‐CoV‐2 and is currently of utmost value for seronegative immunocompromised patients. Since most of the effect is due to the vaccine boost of infection‐elicited antibodies, there is a theoretical concern that the frequency of suitable donors is declining.

Materials and Methods

In this single‐institution serosurvey, we screened 599 consecutive donors attending our area in two different seasons (300 in November 2022 and 299 in February 2023) using the Abbott Alinity® anti‐Spike immunoglobulin G assay.

Results

More than 80% of random donors qualify according to the FDA criteria for high‐titre CCP (>4350 AU/mL), with a stable trend.

Conclusion

Despite reduced anti‐Spike vaccine boost deployment in the general population, we have shown here that high‐titre CCP units are easier than ever to procure. This finding also has implications for the derivation of standard immunoglobulins, which are finally approaching the potency of hyperimmune serum and could soon represent an alternative to CCP.
Evaluation of frontal and infratrochlear nerve blocks for standing sedated frontonasal sinusotomy in horses
Authors: Elliott Singen M. , Giancola Shyla C. , Moorman Valerie
Published: July 2023

Objective

To determine if targeted blocking of frontal and infratrochlear nerves provided anesthesia for the approach to a frontonasal sinusotomy.

Study design

Two part study: Part 1 randomized crossover design; Part 2 proof of concept. Animals: N = 12; six each in Parts 1 and 2.

Methods

Part 1: Each horse had either frontal and infratrochlear nerve blocks or a line block performed with 2% mepivacaine hydrochloride. Mechanical nociceptive thresholds (MNT) were obtained at five sites along a proposed frontonasal sinusotomy prior to injection, and at 10, 60, and 120 min after blocking. After a 4 day washout period, the opposite procedure was performed. Order of procedure and side of face were randomized. MNTs were analyzed using mixed‐model ANOVA with p < .05. Part 2: Frontal and infratrochlear nerve blocks were performed followed by creation of a skin/periosteal incision, which was closed at 2 h. Ability to create and suture the incision, and the size of the incision were recorded.

Results

For part 1, both line and targeted blocks resulted in at least two times an increase in median MNT values at each of the five sites, as compared to baseline MNT values (p < .0025). In Part 2, incisions could be completed in five of six horses, with median incision size of 6.5 × 5 cm.

Conclusion

Following frontal and infratrochlear nerve blocks, MNTs were increased along a proposed frontonasal sinusotomy, and skin incisions could be created in the majority of horses.

Clinical significance

Frontal and infratrochlear nerve blocks provide an alternative technique to create a frontonasal sinusotomy.
Size Effect in the Compression of 3D Polymerized Micro-Structures
Authors: Li Jiayu , Accardo Angelo , Liu Shutian
Published: July 2023

Micro/nanoscale additive manufacturing provides a powerful tool for advanced materials and structures with complex and precise features. For instance, the feature resolution of two-photon polymerization (2PP) can reach 200 nm. At this scale, materials properties can change, and the influence of the size effect cannot be ignored. Therefore, it is necessary to assess changes in the material mechanical properties considering size effects. In this work, several micrometric polymeric specimens are printed via 2PP, and their mechanical properties are assessed using compression tests. Detailed printing and testing procedures and the effects of parameter settings are provided. The experimental results show that the changes in the microstructures’ size have a direct effect on Young’s modulus. In particular, a large surface-volume ratio results in a higher Young’s modulus. In other words, the smaller the structure size, the higher the stiffness. The reported findings play a significant role in the development of fabrication strategies for polymeric microstructures where high stiffness accuracy is fundamental.
Study of γ-Ray Spectrum Measurement Analysis Algorithm of Radioactive Solid Waste Steel Boxes
Authors: Li Yurong , He Lixia , Wen Jing , Shao Jiewen
Published: July 2023

In accordance with safety requirements for the near-surface disposal of low and medium-level radioactive solid waste, accurate identification and measurement of radionuclide types and activities within steel boxes containing such waste are necessary. Conventional sampling techniques are impractical due to nonuniform internal filling and radioactive distribution in the steel boxes used for storage. Nondestructive measurement analysis techniques offer significant advantages by providing comprehensive measurements without causing damage to the steel boxes or generating secondary waste. Therefore, nondestructive techniques are widely applicable and superior to chemical analysis methods. This study presents an algorithm for analyzing γ-ray spectrum measurements of radioactive solid waste steel boxes by combining the traditional computed tomography (CT) principle with a discrete treatment approach. The progressive split voxel measurement method is utilized to discretely handle the radioactive solid waste steel boxes during the measurement and calculation process while considering the impact of voxel interactions on detection efficiency. A detection efficiency calibration model is established using Monte Carlo (MC) simulation in conjunction with the algebraic reconstruction technique (ART). Additionally, an inversion correction of the efficiency for the physically coincident portion of the detected voxel volume is performed during the measurement process. The proposed algorithm is initially applied to the analysis platform of steel boxes that store FA-IV-type radioactive solid waste. The algorithm's performance is further investigated and validated using standard radioactive sources with known activity levels. The results indicate that the relative deviation between the reconstruction results and the nominal values of radioactive activities in the steel boxes is less than 30%. These findings align with the expected results and satisfy the measurement analysis and warehousing processing requirements for waste generated from the decommissioning of China's 101 nuclear reactor. The proposed algorithm holds great potential for widespread application in related detection work.
Linear and Nonlinear Stability Analysis of Molten Salt Natural Circulation Loop
Authors: Srivastava A. K. , Saikrishna N. , Maheshwari N. K.
Published: July 2023

A molten salt natural circulation loop (MSNCL) has been setup to study the steady-state, transient, and stability characteristics of molten nitrate salt, mixture of sodium nitrate, and potassium nitrate in 60:40 ratios by weight. Natural circulation experiments in a temperature range of 290 °C–600 °C have been performed. A semi-analytical linear model was derived for stability analysis of rectangular natural circulation loops with conventional localized surface heating and cooling. The developed model includes the effect of wall thermal inertia, variable internal heat transfer coefficient, finite secondary side heat transfer coefficient at cooler, and heat losses for predicting the stability map. These effects are incorporated considering their significant role in modeling high-temperature molten salt-based natural circulation systems. The developed model has been first validated with the experimental data of water loop available in literature. The developed model is then validated with the experimental data generated in MSNCL. Validation of in-house developed nonlinear model has also been performed against the same experimental data. The comparison of both linear and nonlinear stability analysis with the experimental data shows good agreement and articulates the importance of various parameters which have been included in the developed model.
Natural Convection in the Melting of Phase Change Materials in a Cylindrical Thermal Energy Storage System: Effects of Flow Arrangements of Heat Transfer Fluid and Associated Thermal Boundary Conditions
Authors: Uddin Meftah , Virk Akashdeep Singh , Park Chanwoo
Published: July 2023

Latent thermal energy storage systems (LTESS) have received widespread attention due to their high energy density to store a significant amount of thermal energy in the form of latent heat into phase change materials (PCM) at a nearly constant melting temperature. The thermal efficiency of LTESS is usually limited by poor heat conduction in PCM but enhanced by the natural convection of molten PCM. The natural convection increases the uniformity of temperature by mixing in a PCM enclosure and therefore increases the heat transfer rates and accelerates the melting. While there is negligible natural convection, periodic reciprocation of heat transfer fluid (HTF) through the PCM enclosure has been demonstrated to increase the heat transfer rates to PCM by increasing the melt interface area and reducing temperature gradients across PCM compared to fixed-directional flow arrangements. The current study examines the effects of HTF flow direction on the strength and duration of natural convection in PCM in a vertical cylindrical shell-and-tube container. Gallium is used as the PCM because of its low melting temperature and high thermal conductivity, and water is used as the HTF. A 2-D axisymmetric numerical model developed in ANSYS Fluent was used for the study of the cylindrical LTESS. The aspect ratio of the cylindrical container is nearly 1, which allows the generation of natural convection currents of strong magnitude in molten PCM in the vertical orientation. The irregular melting front in the PCM is caused by both natural convection in molten PCM and thermal boundary conditions for different HTF flow arrangements. The temperature and melting front profiles of PCM with the reciprocating flow arrangement are compared to unidirectional flows in upward and downward directions. The influence of HTF operating parameters such as temperature, velocity, and reciprocation period on PCM melting is studied. Scale analysis is also applied to characterize the different melting regimes of PCM under different flow arrangements.