bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Source Mechanism of Seismic Explosion Signals at Santiaguito Volcano, Guatemala: New Insights From Seismic Analysis and Numerical Modeling
Authors: Rohnacher Alicia , Rietbrock Andreas , Gottschämmer Ellen , Carter William , Lavallée Yan , De Angelis Silvio , Kendrick Jackie E. , Chigna Gustavo
Published: February 2021

Volcanic activity at the Santiaguito dome complex (Guatemala) is characterized by lava extrusion interspersed with small, regular, gas-and-ash explosions that are believed to result from shallow magma fragmentation; yet, their triggering mechanisms remain debated. Given that the understanding of source processes at volcanoes is essential to risk assessments of future eruptions, this study seeks to shed light on those processes. We use data from a permanent seismic and infrasound network at Santiaguito volcano, Guatemala, established in 2018 and additional temporary stations, including a seismic array deployed during a 13-day field investigation in January 2019 to analyze and resolve the source characteristics of fragmentation leading to gas-and-ash explosions. Seismic data gathered within a distance of 4.5 km from the vent show a weak seismic signal 2–6 s prior to the explosions and associated main seismic signal. To resolve the source location and origin of the seismic signals, we first used ambient noise analysis to assess seismic velocities in the subsurface and then used two-dimensional spectral element modeling (SPECFEM2D) to simulate seismic waveforms. The analyzed data revealed a two-layer structure beneath the array, with a shallow, low-velocity layer (vs= 650 m/s) above deeper, high-velocity rocks (vs= 2,650 m/s). Using this velocity structure, possible source mechanisms and depths were constrained using array and particle motion analyses. The comparison of simulated and observed seismic data indicated that the precursory signal is associated with particle motion in the RZ-plane, pointing toward the opening of tensile cracks at a depth of ∼600 m below the summit; in contrast, the main signal is accompanied by a vertical single force, originating at a shallow depth of about ∼200 m. This suggests that the volcanic explosions at Santiaguito are following a bottom-up process in which tensile fractures develop at depth and enable rapid gas rise which leads to the subsequent explosion. The result indicates that explosions at Santiaguito do not occur from a single source location, but from a series of processes possibly associated with magma rupture, gas channeling and accumulation, and fragmentation. Our study provides a good foundation for further investigations at Santiaguito and shows the value of comparing seismic observations with synthetic data calculated for complex media to investigate in detail the processes leading up to gas-ash-rich explosions found at various other volcanoes worldwide.
Selecting Mathematical Tasks for Assessing Student’s Understanding: Pre-Service Teachers’ Sensitivity to and Adaptive Use of Diagnostic Task Potential in Simulated Diagnostic One-To-One Interviews
Authors: Kron Stephanie , Sommerhoff Daniel , Achtner Maike , Ufer Stefan
Published: February 2021

Teachers’ diagnostic competences are regarded as highly important for classroom assessment and teacher decision making. Prior conceptualizations of diagnostic competences as judgement accuracy have been extended to include a wider understanding of what constitutes a diagnosis; novel models of teachers’ diagnostic competences explicitly include the diagnostic process as the core of diagnosing. In this context, domain-general and mathematics-specific research emphasizes the importance of tasks used to elicit student cognition. However, the role of (mathematical) tasks in diagnostic processes has not yet attracted much systematic empirical research interest. In particular, it is currently unclear whether teachers consider diagnostic task potential when selecting tasks for diagnostic interviews and how this relationship is shaped by their professional knowledge. This study focuses on pre-service mathematics teachers’ selection of tasks during one-to-one diagnostic interviews in live simulations. Each participant worked on two 30 mins interviews in the role of a teacher, diagnosing a student’s mathematical understanding of decimal fractions. The participants’ professional knowledge was measured afterward. Trained assistants played simulated students, who portrayed one of four student case profiles, each having different mathematical (mis-)conceptions of decimal fractions. For the interview, participants could select tasks from a set of 45 tasks with different diagnostic task potentials. Two aspects of task selection during the diagnostic processes were analyzed: participants’ sensitivity to the diagnostic potential, which was reflected in higher odds for selecting tasks with high potential than tasks with low potential, and the adaptive use of diagnostic task potential, which was reflected in task selection influenced by a task’s diagnostic potential in combination with previously collected information about the student’s understanding. The results show that participants vary in their sensitivity to diagnostic task potential, but not in their adaptive use. Moreover, participants’ content knowledge had a significant effect on their sensitivity. However, the effects of pedagogical content and pedagogical knowledge did not reach significance. The results highlight that pre-service teachers require further support to effectively attend to diagnostic task potential. Simulations were used for assessment purposes in this study, and they appear promising for this purpose because they allow for the creation of authentic yet controlled situations.
Seasonal Variation in Chemical Composition of Size-Segregated Aerosols Over the Northeastern Arabian Sea
Authors: Kaushik Ankush , Kumar Ashwini , Aswini M. A , Panda P. P. , Shukla Garima , Gupta N. C.
Published: February 2021

Water-soluble species constitute a significant fraction (up to 60–70%) of the total aerosol loading in the marine atmospheric boundary layer (MABL). The “indirect” effects, that is, climate forcing due to modification of cloud properties depend on the water-soluble composition of aerosols. Thus, the characterization of aerosols over the MABL is of greater relevance. Here, we present 1-year long aerosol chemical composition data of PM10 and PM2.5 at a costal location in the northeastern Arabian Sea (Goa; 15.45°N, 73.20°E, 56 m above the sea level). Average water-soluble ionic concentration (sum of anion and cation) is highest (25.5 ± 6.9 and 19.6 ± 5.8 μg·m−3 for PM10 and PM2.5, respectively) during winter season and lowest during post-monsoon (17.3 ± 9.1 and 14.4 ± 8.1 μg·m−3 for PM10 and PM2.5, respectively). Among water-soluble ionic spices, SO42- ion was found to be dominant species in anions and NH4+ is dominant in cations, for both PM10 and PM2.5 during all the seasons. These observations clearly hint to the contribution from anthropogenic emission and significant secondary inorganic species formation. Sea-salt (calculated based on Na+ and Cl−) concentration shows significant temporal variability with highest contribution during summer seasons in both fractions. Sea-salt corrected Ca2+, an indicator of mineral dust is found mostly during summer months, particularly in PM10 samples, indicates contribution from mineral dust emissions from arid/semiarid regions located in the north/northwestern India and southwest Asia. These observations are corroborated with back-trajectory analyses, wherein air parcels were found to derive from the desert area in summer and Indo-Gangetic Plains (a hot spot for anthropogenic emissions) during winter. In addition, we also observe the presence of nss-K+ (sea-salt corrected), for PM2.5, particularly during winter months, indicating influence of biomass burning emissions. The impact on aerosol chemistry is further assessed based on chloride depletion. Chloride depletion is observed very significant during post-monsoon months (October and November), wherein more than 80 up to 100% depletion is found, mediated by excess sulfates highlighting the role of secondary species in atmospheric chemistry. Regional scale characterization of atmospheric aerosols is important for their better parameterization in chemical transport model and estimation of radiative forcing.
A CD4+CD161+ T-Cell Subset Present in Unexposed Humans, Not Tb Patients, Are Fast Acting Cells That Inhibit the Growth of Intracellular Mycobacteria Involving CD161 Pathway, Perforin, and IFN-γ/Autophagy
Authors: Yang Rui , Peng Ying , Pi Jiang , Liu Yidian , Yang Enzhuo , Shen Xiaona , Yao Lan , Shen Ling , Modlin Robert L. , Shen Hongbo , Sha Wei , Chen Zheng W.
Published: February 2021

It remains undefined whether a subset of CD4+ T cells can function as fast-acting cells to controlMycobacterium tuberculosis(Mtb) infection. Here we show that the primary CD4+CD161+ T-cell subset, not CD4+CD161-, in unexposed healthy humans fast acted as unconventional T cells capable of inhibiting intracellular Mtb and BCG growth upon exposure to infected autologous and allogeneic macrophages or lung epithelial A549 cells. Such inhibition coincided with the ability of primary CD4+CD161+ T cells to rapidly express/secrete anti-TB cytokines including IFN-γ, TNF-α, IL-17, and perforin upon exposure to Mtb. Mechanistically, blockades of CD161 pathway, perforin or IFN-γ by blocking mAbs abrogated the ability of CD4+CD161+ T cells to inhibit intracellular mycobacterial growth. Pre-treatment of infected macrophages with inhibitors of autophagy also blocked the CD4+CD161+ T cell-mediated growth inhibition of mycobacteria. Furthermore, adoptive transfer of human CD4+CD161+ T cells conferred protective immunity against mycobacterial infection in SCID mice. Surprisingly, CD4+CD161+ T cells in TB patients exhibited a loss or reduction of their capabilities to produce perforin/IFN-γ and to inhibit intracellular growth of mycobacteria in infected macrophages. These immune dysfunctions were consistent with PD1/Tim3 up-regulation on CD4+CD161+ T cells in active tuberculosis patients, and the blockade of PD1/Tim3 on this subset cells enhanced the inhibition of intracellular mycobacteria survival. Thus, these findings suggest that a fast-acting primary CD4+CD161+T-cell subset in unexposed humans employs the CD161 pathway, perforin, and IFN-γ/autophagy to inhibit the growth of intracellular mycobacteria, thereby distinguishing them from the slow adaptive responses of conventional CD4+ T cells. The presence of fast-acting CD4+CD161+ T-cell that inhibit mycobacterial growth in unexposed humans but not TB patients also implicates the role of these cells in protective immunity against initial Mtb infection.
Scaling Orchestration in Physical Model Test of Oscillating Buoy Wave Energy Converter
Authors: Qiao Dongsheng , Zhi Guangning , Liang Haizhi , Ning Dezhi , Yan Jun , Li Binbin
Published: February 2021

The physical model test interlinks the concept design and sea trial during the commercial utilization of wave energy converter. Aiming at the oscillating buoy wave energy converter, the energy conversion principle is firstly decomposed. Then, the model scale requirement of fluid motion and corresponding hydrodynamic similarity criterion considered in the physical model test are introduced. Finally, the solution of scaling orchestration problem is proposed considering the overall model scale in different energy conversion processes. The hydrodynamic similarity criterion is selected based on the working mechanism of the energy-capturing body only in contact with water, and the model scale requirements during the other stages of energy conversion structure are determined by the main mechanical factors. The first-stage energy conversion of device is recommended to meet the Froude similarity requirements, while the second-stage and third-stage energy conversions only need to meet the power similarity requirements. The power scale ratio in the three energy conversions is recommended to be consistent with the Froude similarity, and there are no requirements of geometric shape of second-stage and third-stage energy conversions to meet the similarity criteria.
The Distinctive Evolution of orfX Clostridium parabotulinum Strains and Their Botulinum Neurotoxin Type A and F Gene Clusters Is Influenced by Environmental Factors and Gene Interactions via Mobile Genetic Elements
Authors: Smith Theresa J. , Williamson Charles H. D. , Hill Karen K. , Johnson Shannon L. , Xie Gary , Anniballi Fabrizio , Auricchio Bruna , Fernández Rafael A. , Caballero Patricia A. , Keim Paul , Sahl Jason W.
Published: February 2021

Of the seven currently known botulinum neurotoxin-producing species ofClostridium,C. parabotulinum, or C. botulinumGroup I, is the species associated with the majority of human botulism cases worldwide. Phylogenetic analysis of these bacteria reveals a diverse species with multiple genomic clades. The neurotoxins they produce are also diverse, with over 20 subtypes currently represented. The existence of differentbontgenes within very similar genomes and of the samebontgenes/gene clusters within different bacterial variants/species indicates that they have evolved independently. The neurotoxin genes are associated with one of two toxin gene cluster types containing either hemagglutinin (ha) genes ororfXgenes. These genes may be located within the chromosome or extrachromosomal elements such as large plasmids. Although BoNT-producingC parabotulinumbacteria are distributed globally, they are more ubiquitous in certain specific geographic regions. Notably, northern hemisphere strains primarily containhagene clusters while southern hemisphere strains have a preponderance oforfXgene clusters.OrfX C. parabotulinumstrains constitute a subset of this species that contain highly conservedbontgene clusters having a diverse range ofbontgenes. While much has been written about strains withhagene clusters, less attention has been devoted to those withorfXgene clusters. The recent sequencing of 28orfX C. parabotulinumstrains and the availability of an additional 91 strains for analysis provides an opportunity to compare genomic relationships and identify unique toxin gene cluster characteristics and locations within this species subset in depth. The mechanisms behind the independent processes of bacteria evolution and generation of toxin diversity are explored through the examination of bacterial relationships relating to source locations and evidence of horizontal transfer of genetic material among different bacterial variants, particularly concerningbontgene clusters. Analysis of the content and locations of thebontgene clusters offers insights into common mechanisms of genetic transfer, chromosomal integration, and development of diversity among these genes.
From Neurosurgical Planning to Histopathological Brain Tumor Characterization: Potentialities of Arcuate Fasciculus Along-Tract Diffusion Tensor Imaging Tractography Measures
Authors: Zoli Matteo , Talozzi Lia , Martinoni Matteo , Manners David N. , Badaloni Filippo , Testa Claudia , Asioli Sofia , Mitolo Micaela , Bartiromo Fiorina , Rochat Magali Jane , Fabbri Viscardo Paolo , Sturiale Carmelo , Conti Alfredo , Lodi Raffaele , Mazzatenta Diego , Tonon Caterina
Published: February 2021

Background: Tractography has been widely adopted to improve brain gliomas' surgical planning and guide their resection. This study aimed to evaluate state-of-the-art of arcuate fasciculus (AF) tractography for surgical planning and explore the role of along-tract analyses in vivo for characterizing tumor histopathology.

Methods: High angular resolution diffusion imaging (HARDI) images were acquired for nine patients with tumors located in or near language areas (age: 41 ± 14 years, mean ± standard deviation; five males) and 32 healthy volunteers (age: 39 ± 16 years; 16 males). Phonemic fluency task fMRI was acquired preoperatively for patients. AF tractography was performed using constrained spherical deconvolution diffusivity modeling and probabilistic fiber tracking. Along-tract analyses were performed, dividing the AF into 15 segments along the length of the tract defined using the Laplacian operator. For each AF segment, diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) measures were compared with those obtained in healthy controls (HCs). The hemispheric laterality index (LI) was calculated from language task fMRI activations in the frontal, parietal, and temporal lobe parcellations. Tumors were grouped into low/high grade (LG/HG).

Results: Four tumors were LG gliomas (one dysembryoplastic neuroepithelial tumor and three glioma grade II) and five HG gliomas (two grade III and three grade IV). For LG tumors, gross total removal was achieved in all but one case, for HG in two patients. Tractography identified the AF trajectory in all cases. Four along-tract DTI measures potentially discriminated LG and HG tumor patients (false discovery rate < 0.1): the number of abnormal MD and RD segments, median AD, and MD measures. Both a higher number of abnormal AF segments and a higher AD and MD measures were associated with HG tumor patients. Moreover, correlations (unadjusted p < 0.05) were found between the parietal lobe LI and the DTI measures, which discriminated between LG and HG tumor patients. In particular, a more rightward parietal lobe activation (LI < 0) correlated with a higher number of abnormal MD segments (R = −0.732) and RD segments (R = −0.724).

Conclusions: AF tractography allows to detect the course of the tract, favoring the safer-as-possible tumor resection. Our preliminary study shows that along-tract DTI metrics can provide useful information for differentiating LG and HG tumors during pre-surgical tumor characterization.
Volatile Anesthetics Regulate Anti-Cancer Relevant Signaling
Authors: Wang Jiaqiang , Cheng Chien-shan , Lu Yan , Sun Shen , Huang Shaoqiang
Published: February 2021

Volatile anesthetics are widely used inhalation anesthetics in clinical anesthesia. In recent years, the regulation of anti-cancer relevant signaling of volatile anesthetics has drawn the attention of investigators. However, their underlying mechanism remains unclear. This review summarizes the research progress on the regulation of anti-cancer relevant signaling of volatile anesthetics, including sevoflurane, desflurane, xenon, isoflurane, and halothane in vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies. The present review article aims to provide a general overview of regulation of anti-cancer relevant signaling and explore potential underlying molecular mechanisms of volatile anesthetics. It may promote promising insights of guiding clinical anesthesia procedure and instructing enhance recovery after surgery (ERAS) with latent benefits.
Mitophagy in Pancreatic Cancer
Authors: Xie Yangchun , Liu Jiao , Kang Rui , Tang Daolin
Published: February 2021

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), one of the most aggressive solid malignancies, is characterized by the presence of oncogenic KRAS mutations, poor response to current therapies, prone to metastasis, and a low 5-year overall survival rate. Macroautophagy (herein referred to as autophagy) is a lysosome-dependent degradation system that forms a series of dynamic membrane structures to engulf, degrade, and recycle various cargoes, such as unused proteins, damaged organelles, and invading pathogens. Autophagy is usually upregulated in established cancers, but it plays a dual role in the regulation of the initiation and progression of PDAC. As a type of selective autophagy, mitophagy is a mitochondrial quality control mechanism that uses ubiquitin-dependent (e.g., the PINK1-PRKN pathway) and -independent (e.g., BNIP3L/NIX, FUNDC1, and BNIP3) pathways to regulate mitochondrial turnover and participate in the modulation of metabolism and cell death. Genetically engineered mouse models indicate that the loss of PINK1 or PRKN promotes, whereas the depletion of BNIP3L inhibits oncogenic KRAS-driven pancreatic tumorigenesis. Mitophagy also play a dual role in the regulation of the anticancer activity of certain cytotoxic agents (e.g., rocaglamide A, dichloroacetate, fisetin, and P. suffruticosa extracts) in PDAC cells or xenograft models. In this min-review, we summarize the latest advances in understanding the complex role of mitophagy in the occurrence and treatment of PDAC.
The Advantages of Indocyanine Green Fluorescence Imaging in Detecting and Treating Pediatric Hepatoblastoma: A Preliminary Experience
Authors: Cho Yu Jeong , Namgoong Jung-Man , Kwon Hyun Hee , Kwon Yong Jae , Kim Dae Yeon , Kim Seong Chul
Published: February 2021

Background: Currently, indocyanine green (ICG) fluorescence imaging enables radical surgical resection in hepatoblastoma (HB) and has beneficial uses; however, its usage in pediatric patients is still limited.

Methods: From 2015 to 2019, 17 hepatoblastoma patients underwent 22 fluorescence-guided surgery using ICG. ICG (0.3 mg/kg) was intravenously injected 24–48 h before the operation. With ICG/NIR camera, intraoperative identification of biological structures and demarcation of mass were conducted.

Results: ICG fluorescence-guided surgery was performed for hepatoblastoma in 22 cases: 16, 1, and 2 cases underwent anatomic resection, partial hepatectomy, and liver transplantation, respectively. Six patients accompanied lung metastasis at the time of surgery, and two patients underwent lung surgery using ICG. The median interval from ICG injection to surgery was 38.3 h (range, 20.5–50.3 h). The median tumor size was 36.5 mm (range, 2–132 mm). According to the pathologic finding, the median safety margin was secured for 6 mm (range, 0–11 mm) and there was no residual finding at the liver at the follow-up computed tomography (CT).

Conclusions: ICG fluorescence imaging in children with HB was feasible and safe for tumor demarcation and enhancing the accuracy of radical tumor resection.
Ultraviolet B Radiation Triggers DNA Methylation Change and Affects Foraging Behavior of the Clonal Plant Glechoma longituba
Authors: Quan Jiaxin , Latzel Vít , Tie Dan , Zhang Yuhan , Münzbergová Zuzana , Chai Yongfu , Liu Xiao , Yue Ming
Published: February 2021

Clonal plants in heterogeneous environments can benefit from their habitat selection behavior, which enables them to utilize patchily distributed resources efficiently. It has been shown that such behavior can be strongly influenced by their memories on past environmental interactions. Epigenetic variation such as DNA methylation was proposed to be one of the mechanisms involved in the memory. Here, we explored whether the experience with Ultraviolet B (UV-B) radiation triggers epigenetic memory and affects clonal plants’ foraging behavior in an UV-B heterogeneous environment. Parental ramets ofGlechoma longitubawere exposed to UV-B radiation for 15 days or not (controls), and their offspring ramets were allowed to choose light environment enriched with UV-B or not (the species is monopodial and can only choose one environment). Sizes and epigenetic profiles (based on methylation-sensitive amplification polymorphism analysis) of parental and offspring plants from different environments were also analyzed. Parental ramets that have been exposed to UV-B radiation were smaller than ramets from control environment and produced less and smaller offspring ramets. Offspring ramets were placed more often into the control light environment (88.46% ramets) than to the UV-B light environment (11.54% ramets) when parental ramets were exposed to UV-B radiation, which is a manifestation of “escape strategy.” Offspring of control parental ramets show similar preference to the two light environments. Parental ramets exposed to UV-B had lower levels of overall DNA methylation and had different epigenetic profiles than control parental ramets. The methylation of UV-B-stressed parental ramets was maintained among their offspring ramets, although the epigenetic differentiation was reduced after several asexual generations. The parental experience with the UV-B radiation strongly influenced foraging behavior. The memory on the previous environmental interaction enables clonal plants to better interact with a heterogeneous environment and the memory is at least partly based on heritable epigenetic variation.
The RsmA RNA-Binding Proteins in Pseudomonas syringae Exhibit Distinct and Overlapping Roles in Modulating Virulence and Survival Under Different Nutritional Conditions
Authors: Liu Jun , Yu Menghao , Ge Yixin , Tian Yanli , Hu Baishi , Zhao Youfu
Published: February 2021

The post-transcriptional regulator RsmA globally controls gene expression in bacteria. Previous studies showed that RsmA2 and RsmA3 played critical roles in regulating type III secretion system (T3SS), motility, syringafactin, and alginate productions in Pseudomonas syringae pv. tomato strain DC3000 (PstDC3000). In this study, we investigated global gene expression profiles of the wild-type PstDC3000, the rsmA3 mutant, and the rsmA2/A3 double mutant in the hrp-inducing minimum medium (HMM) and King’s B (KB) medium. By comparing the rsmA2/A3 and rsmA3 mutants to PstDC3000, a total of 1358 and 1074 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in HMM, and 870 and 1463 DEGs in KB were uncovered, respectively. When comparing the rsmA2/A3 mutant with the rsmA3 mutant, 277 and 741 DEGs in HMM and KB, respectively, were revealed. Transcriptomic analysis revealed that the rsmY, rsmZ, and rsmX1-5 non-coding small RNAs (ncsRNAs) were positively affected by RsmA2 and RsmA3, while RsmA3 positively regulates the expression of the rsmA2 gene and negatively regulates both rsmA1 and rsmA5 gene expression. Comparative transcriptomic analysis showed that RsmA2 and RsmA3 synergistically influenced the expression of genes involved in T3SS and alginate biosynthesis in HMM and chemotaxis in KB. RsmA2 and RsmA3 inversely affected genes involved in syringafactin production in HMM and ribosomal protein biosynthesis in KB. In addition, RsmA2 played a major role in influencing genes involved in sarcosine and thiamine biosynthesis in HMM and in mannitol and phosphate metabolism in KB. On the other hand, genes involved in fatty acid metabolism, cellulose biosynthesis, signal transduction, and stress responses were mainly impacted by RsmA3 in both HMM and KB; whereas RsmA3 played a major role in controlling genes involved in c-di-GMP, phosphate metabolism, chemotaxis, and capsular polysaccharide in HMM. Furthermore, regulation of syringafactin production and oxidative stress by RsmA2 and RsmA3 was experimentally verified. Our results suggested the potential interplay among the RsmA proteins, which exhibit distinct and overlapping roles in modulating virulence and survival in P. syringae under different nutritional conditions.
Gender-Dependent Associations of Anxiety and Depression Symptoms With Eating Disorder Psychopathology in a Representative Population Sample
Authors: Ernst Mareike , Werner Antonia M. , Tibubos Ana N. , Beutel Manfred E. , de Zwaan Martina , Brähler Elmar
Published: February 2021

Background:Evidence shows that anxiety and depressive disorders play an important role in eating disorder behavior. However, given the epidemiology of eating disorders, there is a need to investigate potentially gender-specific connections.

Method:This study tested the associations of anxiety and depression symptoms with eating disorder symptoms and behaviors and explored whether they differed between men and women. Within a population-representative survey (N= 2,510; ages 14–94), participants completed measures of depression symptoms (PHQ-2), anxiety symptoms (GAD-2), and eating disorder symptoms (EDE-Q8). We conducted linear regression analyses of the EDE-Q8 sum score and General Linear Models on the three behaviors overeating, binge eating, and compensatory behaviors (self-induced vomiting/use of laxatives/excessive exercising).

Results:Depression and anxiety symptoms were related to more eating disorder symptoms in men and women (irrespective of BMI, age, and income). The association of depression and eating disorder symptoms was slightly stronger in women. Overeating was more common in men and in depressed individuals, whereas compensatory behaviors were more common among anxious individuals, especially anxious women.

Conclusion:The study extends previous research by using gender-specific methods in a representative sample. It indicates similarities and differences between men and women regarding disordered eating on a population level.
A Short Bout of Exercise With and Without an Immersive Virtual Reality Game Can Reduce Stress and Anxiety in Adolescents: A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Shaw Alexa J. , Lubetzky Anat V.
Published: February 2021

Anxiety and stress are prominent issues for the adolescent population. Physical activity is known to reduce symptoms of anxiety and stress; however, many adolescents lack the time or motivation to exercise regularly, particularly during stressful exam weeks. Virtual Reality (VR) has the potential to make exercise more enjoyable and more engaging than exercise alone. We aimed to investigate the immediate effect of a 10-min dodgeball exercise session, with and without a VR headset, on self-reported stress, anxiety and cognitive performance in adolescents during times known to induce stress in high school, such as exam weeks. Participants were randomly assigned to a VR group (n = 16) where participants were immersed in a virtual dodgeball environment (exergame), or a dodgeball group (n = 14) which played a simple game of one-on-one dodgeball. Executive function was measured using the Trail Making Test (TMT) Parts A and B. Anxiety was self-reported on the Pediatric Anxiety Short Form 8a (PASF). Stress was self-reported on the Psychological Stress Experiences-Short Form 8a (PSES). Both groups significantly improved their TMT A and B performance and reduced stress and anxiety scores with effect size ranging from 0.59 to 1.2 (main effect of time p < 0.001 for all outcomes). There were no significant differences between groups and no time by group interaction for any outcome. A short bout of exercise, with or without VR, during stressful high school exam weeks was shown to be effective for immediate reduction of stress and anxiety and enhancement of cognitive function in a small sample of high school students. High schools looking to apply interventions to help their students manage anxiety and stress should consider encouraging them to take a “time-out” to exercise and play. The cost-effectiveness of exergames inside the school settings and implications for academic success should be investigated in future research.
The Waiting-Time Paradox
Authors: Masuda Naoki , Porter Mason A.
Published: February 2021

Suppose that you are going to school and arrive at a bus stop. How long do you have to wait before the next bus arrives? Surprisingly, it is longer—possibly much longer—than what you might guess from looking at a bus schedule. This phenomenon, which is called the waiting-time paradox, has a purely mathematical origin. In this article, we explore the waiting-time paradox, explain why it occurs, and discuss some of its implications (beyond the possibility of being late for school).
Leishmaniasis Beyond East Africa
Authors: Jones Caitlin M. , Welburn Susan C.
Published: February 2021

Climate change is having a substantial impact on our environment and ecosystems and has altered the way humans live, access, and utilize resources with increased risk of zoonotic infectious disease encounters. As global temperatures continue to increase, they impact on public health, migration, food security and land conflict, and as new environments become favorable, exposure to disease carrying vectors. Increased forests or natural habitat clearance for land repurposing, urbanization, road building, and water management are related to an increase in emerging vector borne parasitic diseases. The East African region remains one of the most impacted regions globally for leishmaniasis, a vector borne disease that impacts significantly on the health, wellbeing and livelihoods of affected communities and for which a lack of reporting and control interventions hinder progress toward elimination of this neglected tropical disease. As our world continues to transform, both politically and climatically, it is essential that measures are put in place to improve surveillance and disease management with implementation of control measures, including vector control, especially in low- and middle-income countries that are expected to be most impacted by changes in climate. Only through effective management, now, can we be sufficiently resilient to preventing the inevitable spread of vectors into suitable habitat and expansion of the geographical range of leishmaniasis. This review offers a current perspective on Leishmaniasis as an endemic disease in East Africa and examines the potential of the recent emergence of Leishmania infection in hitherto unaffected regions to become a public health concern if no disease management is achieved.
The Ouroboros Model, Proposal for Self-Organizing General Cognition Substantiated
Authors: Thomsen Knud
Published: February 2021

The Ouroboros Model has been proposed as a biologically-inspired comprehensive cognitive architecture for general intelligence, comprising natural and artificial manifestations. The approach addresses very diverse fundamental desiderata of research in natural cognition and also artificial intelligence, AI. Here, it is described how the postulated structures have met with supportive evidence over recent years. The associated hypothesized processes could remedy pressing problems plaguing many, and even the most powerful current implementations of AI, including in particular deep neural networks. Some selected recent findings from very different fields are summoned, which illustrate the status and substantiate the proposal.
Dynamic Equilibrium Equations in Unified Mechanics Theory
Authors: Bin Jamal M Noushad , Lee Hsiao , Lakshmana Rao Chebolu , Basaran Cemal
Published: February 2021

Traditionally dynamic analysis is done using Newton’s universal laws of the equation of motion. According to the laws of Newtonian mechanics, the x, y, z, space-time coordinate system does not include a term for energy loss, an empirical damping term “C” is used in the dynamic equilibrium equation. Energy loss in any system is governed by the laws of thermodynamics. Unified Mechanics Theory (UMT) unifies the universal laws of motion of Newton and the laws of thermodynamics at ab-initio level. As a result, the energy loss [entropy generation] is automatically included in the laws of the Unified Mechanics Theory (UMT). Using unified mechanics theory, the dynamic equilibrium equation is derived and presented. One-dimensional free vibration analysis with frictional dissipation is used to compare the results of the proposed model with that of a Newtonian mechanics equation. For the proposed entropy generation equation in the system, the trend of predictions is comparable with the reported experimental results and Newtonian mechanics-based predictions.
Treatment and Effective Utilization of Greywater: A Preliminary Case Study
Authors: Gautam Sneha , Makhitha Lakshmi M. , Gupta Anirudh , Brema J. , James E. J. , Chellaiah Gajendran
Published: February 2021

Greywater has been identified as a valuable alternative water source over recent years. Few practices (i.e., recycling and reuse) of greywater have attracted global attention in meeting the future water demand. However, essential parameters should be analyzed for reliable reuse and treatment. The present study addresses the possibilities of the alternative source with the treated greywater. Gravity—governed flow methods through a column containing gravel, sand, and activated carbon was applied. The quality of treated greywater from the university campus, which included physical, chemical, and biological parameters, was assessed to check non-potable reuse suitability. The reduction percentage of organics in biological oxygen demand and chemical oxygen demand was 64% and 42%, respectively. Similarly, the reduction percentage was obtained at 74% and 66% for turbidity and electrical conductivity. The removal efficiency was 57%, 77%, 48%, and 44% for total dissolved solids, alkalinity, chlorides, and total hardness. The pH of treated water samples was found in the neutral range suggesting its suitability for reuse. Hence, the proposed greywater treatment method is a cost-effective and straightforward approach to reuse greywater for irrigation, watering the lawns, and car washing. The greywater collected can be disinfected immediately and reused with minimal possibility of regrowth of microorganisms.
Profiling Inflammatory Extracellular Vesicles in Plasma and Cerebrospinal Fluid: An Optimized Diagnostic Model for Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Vacchi Elena , Burrello Jacopo , Burrello Alessio , Bolis Sara , Monticone Silvia , Barile Lucio , Kaelin-Lang Alain , Melli Giorgia
Published: February 2021

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) play a central role in intercellular communication, which is relevant for inflammatory and immune processes implicated in neurodegenerative disorders, such as Parkinson’s Disease (PD). We characterized and compared distinctive cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)-derived EVs in PD and atypical parkinsonisms (AP), aiming to integrate a diagnostic model based on immune profiling of plasma-derived EVs via artificial intelligence. Plasma- and CSF-derived EVs were isolated from patients with PD, multiple system atrophy (MSA), AP with tauopathies (AP-Tau), and healthy controls. Expression levels of 37 EV surface markers were measured by a flow cytometric bead-based platform and a diagnostic model based on expression of EV surface markers was built by supervised learning algorithms. The PD group showed higher amount of CSF-derived EVs than other groups. Among the 17 EV surface markers differentially expressed in plasma, eight were expressed also in CSF of a subgroup of PD, 10 in MSA, and 6 in AP-Tau. A two-level random forest model was built using EV markers co-expressed in plasma and CSF. The model discriminated PD from non-PD patients with high sensitivity (96.6%) and accuracy (92.6%). EV surface marker characterization bolsters the relevance of inflammation in PD and it underscores the role of EVs as pathways/biomarkers for protein aggregation-related neurodegenerative diseases.
Development and Angiogenic Potential of Cell-Derived Microtissues Using Microcarrier-Template
Authors: Rubí-Sans Gerard , Cano-Torres Irene , Pérez-Amodio Soledad , Blanco-Fernandez Barbara , Mateos-Timoneda Miguel A. , Engel Elisabeth
Published: February 2021

Tissue engineering and regenerative medicine approaches use biomaterials in combination with cells to regenerate lost functions of tissues and organs to prevent organ transplantation. However, most of the current strategies fail in mimicking the tissue’s extracellular matrix properties. In order to mimic native tissue conditions, we developed cell-derived matrix (CDM) microtissues (MT). Our methodology uses poly-lactic acid (PLA) and Cultispher® S microcarriers’ (MCs’) as scaffold templates, which are seeded with rat bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (rBM-MSCs). The scaffold template allows cells to generate an extracellular matrix, which is then extracted for downstream use. The newly formed CDM provides cells with a complex physical (MT architecture) and biochemical (deposited ECM proteins) environment, also showing spontaneous angiogenic potential. Our results suggest that MTs generated from the combination of these two MCs (mixed MTs) are excellent candidates for tissue vascularization. Overall, this study provides a methodology for in-house fabrication of microtissues with angiogenic potential for downstream use in various tissue regenerative strategies.
Electrode Material Effect on the Flash Ignition in Soda-Lime Silicate Glass
Authors: Cipriani Mattia , Sglavo Vincenzo M. , Sorarù Gian Domenico , Biesuz Mattia
Published: February 2021

The need for sustainable solutions to reduce the carbon footprint of the ceramics and glass industry leads towards the development of new electric current-assisted technologies. Flash sintering-like processes in glasses allow a reduction of the softening temperature and could pave the way for new shaping technologies. Herein, we investigated the flash transition in soda-lime silicate glass using two different electrode materials, silver, and platinum. The high dielectric strength registered on samples tested with platinum electrodes undergoes a significant reduction when silver is used. In other words, in the case of silver electrodes, the flash ignition takes place at a lower onset field. Moreover, the Joule heating developed during the process can be turned from being highly inhomogeneous with Pt electrodes to homogeneous when Ag electrodes are used.
The Use of Fragility Curves in the Life-Cycle Assessment of Deteriorating Bridge Structures
Authors: Garavaglia Elsa , Pavani Raffaella , Sgambi Luca
Published: February 2021

Within the context of structure deterioration studies, we propose a new numerical method based on the use of fragility curves. In particular, the present work aims to theoretically study the degradation of concrete bridge structures subjected to aggressive environments. A simple probabilistic method based on fragility curves is presented which allows the forecasting of the lifetime of the considered structural system and the best monitoring time. The method was applied to investigate the degradation of a concrete bridge used as a case study. A Monte Carlo numerical procedure was used to simulate the variation over time of the residual resistant section and the ultimate bending moment of the deck of the case study. Within this context, fragility curves are used as reliable indicators of possible monitoring scenarios. In comparison with other methods, the main advantage of the proposed approach is the small amount of computing time required to obtain rapid assessment of reliability and deterioration level of the considered structure.
Z2 Topological Order and Topological Protection of Majorana Fermion Qubits
Authors: Ul Haq Rukhsan , Kauffman Louis H.
Published: February 2021

The Kitaev chain model exhibits topological order that manifests as topological degeneracy, Majorana edge modes and Z2 topological invariant of the bulk spectrum. This model can be obtained from a transverse field Ising model(TFIM) using the Jordan–Wigner transformation. TFIM has neither topological degeneracy nor any edge modes. Topological degeneracy associated with topological order is central to topological quantum computation. In this paper, we explore topological protection of the ground state manifold in the case of Majorana fermion models which exhibit Z2 topological order. We show that there are at least two different ways to understand this topological protection of Majorana fermion qubits: one way is based on fermionic mode operators and the other is based on anti-commuting symmetry operators. We also show how these two different ways are related to each other. We provide a very general approach to understanding the topological protection of Majorana fermion qubits in the case of lattice Hamiltonians. We then show how in topological phases in Majorana fermion models gives rise to new braid group representations. So, we give a unifying and broad perspective of topological phases in Majorana fermion models based on anti-commuting symmetry operators and braid group representations of Majorana fermions as anyons.
Median Arcuate Ligament Syndrome Clinical Presentation, Pathophysiology, and Management: Description of Four Cases
Authors: Bayati Ihsan Al , Gajendran Mahesh , Davis Brian R. , Diaz Jesus R. , McCallum Richard W.
Published: February 2021

Median arcuate ligament syndrome (MALS), otherwise called celiac artery compression syndrome (CACS), is an uncommon disorder that results from an anatomical compression of the celiac axis and/or celiac ganglion by the MAL. Patients typically present with abdominal pain of unknown etiology exacerbated by eating along with nausea, vomiting, and weight loss. MALS is a diagnosis of exclusion that should be considered in patients with severe upper abdominal pain, which does not correlate with the objective findings. The cardinal feature which is elicited in the diagnosis of MALS relies on imaging studies of the celiac artery, demonstrating narrowing during expiration. The definitive treatment is the median arcuate ligament’s surgical release to achieve surgical decompression of the celiac plexus by division of the MAL. This article describes our experience with this entity, focusing on symptom presentation, diagnostic challenges, and management, including long-term follow-up in four cases.
A “Smartly Functional” Urban 3D Model: A New Way to Preserve the State of Health and Quality of a Complex Masonry Structure
Authors: Varasano Antonietta , Lepore Maria , Zonno Marina , Capotorto Salvatore
Published: February 2021

The 3D model is the primary information of an integrated support system for the assessment of structural safety under vertical loads and seismic vulnerability of a masonry building. The available approaches for evaluating seismic demand and capacity still appear inadequate and today aims to improve the process of knowledge of the seismic behavior of masonry structures and of the reliability of the numerical analysis of evaluation methods. Discrete modeling approaches (macro-elements) can lead to more reliable results if accurate surveys of the geometry and construction details of the masonry structure are used, especially in contexts where advise against the execution of invasive on-site tests for assessments both under vertical and seismic loads, limiting the investigation campaigns. In order to improve digital processes, oriented to the knowledge of the state of health and quality of a masonry structure, this study illustrates a new overture to virtual modeling and assessment of the structural safety of this type of work. The survey and relief methodology here proposed integrates digital data sensors—configured within an IoT (Internet of Things) network—in a geometric model with a level of accurate and precise detail, processed downstream of the laser scanner and photogrammetric survey of the single masonry building, as “S. Domenico Church in the “Sassi” of Matera.
Reply to Comment on “The Occurrence of Shiga Toxin-Producing E. coli in Aquaponic and Hydroponic Systems”
Authors: Wang Yi-Ju , Deering Amanda , Kim Hye-Ji
Published: February 2021

Recently, the Aquaponic Association (AA) published a statement through multiple outlets in response to our article entitled “The Occurrence of Shiga Toxin-Producing E. coli in Aquaponic and Hydroponic Systems” [...]
Changes in the Metabolite Profile during Micropropagation of Normal and Somaclonal Variants of Banana Musa AAA cv. Williams
Authors: Carrera Fredy P. , Noceda Carlos , Maridueña-Zavala María G. , García José A. , Ruiz-Barzola Omar , Cevallos-Cevallos Juan M.
Published: February 2021

Micropropagation techniques allow the mass production of banana plants but can cause somaclonal variations such as dwarfism. Changes in the metabolite profile during micropropagation of normal (NP) and dwarf (DP) banana plants have not been described. Both, NPs and DPs of banana Musa AAA cv. Williams were micropropagated and the metabolite profile of vitroplants was assessed at the proliferation (PP), rooting (RP) and the second greenhouse-acclimatization (APII) phases of tissue culture. Metabolites from 10 DPs and 10 NPs meristems from each micropropagation phase were extracted and identified by gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Principal component analysis (PCA) and test of statistical significance were applied to detect differentially accumulated metabolites. The PCA showed a clear grouping of DPs separated from NPs in RP and APII. Among the differentially accumulated metabolites, various precursors of apoplast components including arabinose and galactose or deoxygalactose in both PP and RP, as well as mannose and fucose in APII were under-accumulated in DPs. Results suggest affected apoplast composition during micropropagation of DPs.