bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pulmonary function in patients with adolescent idiopathic scoliosis: an explorative study of a wearable smart shirt as a measurement instrument
Authors: Te Hennepe N. , Steegh V. L. J. M. , Pouw M. H. , Roukema J. , De Kleuver M. , Van Hooff M. L.
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) presents various challenges, including respiratory symptoms that impact pulmonary function. This study aims to explore the feasibility of using a smart shirt for continuous monitoring of lung volumes and heart rate during routine activities in AIS patients.

Methods

A single-center exploratory feasibility study was conducted with AIS patients aged 16–22 years with a thoracic curvature of ≥ 30 degrees and absence of respiratory comorbidities. A smart shirt was utilized to continuously monitor cardiopulmonary parameters during mild exercise, which included a standardized walking route with the ascent of multiple stairs.

Results

Five participants completed the study. Baseline spirometry measurements showed a range of values for forced vital capacity (FVC), forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1), and FEV1/FVC ratio. During mild exercise, participants exhibited variability in tidal volume, heart rate, breathing rate, and minute ventilation, with increases observed during stair climbing. Breathlessness levels also varied throughout the activity but did not correlate with the measured lung volumes. Overall, the use of the smart shirt for assessing pulmonary function in AIS patients was deemed feasible and well tolerated by participants during the test activities.

Conclusion

The study confirms the feasibility of using a smart shirt for continuous measurement of cardiopulmonary parameters in AIS patients during daily activities. Incongruities between spirometry results and perceived dyspnea exists, which questions the nature of the perceived dyspnea. Further research is needed to validate these findings and explore the impact of AIS characteristics on measurement accuracy.
Minimum levels of interpretability for artificial moral agents
Authors: Vijayaraghavan Avish , Badea Cosmin
Published: July 2024

As artificial intelligence (AI) models continue to scale up, they are becoming more capable and integrated into various forms of decision-making systems. For models involved in moral decision-making (MDM), also known as artificial moral agents (AMA), interpretability provides a way to trust and understand the agent’s internal reasoning mechanisms for effective use and error correction. In this paper, we bridge the technical approaches to interpretability with construction of AMAs to establish minimal safety requirements for deployed AMAs. We begin by providing an overview of AI interpretability in the context of MDM, thereby framing different levels of interpretability (or transparency) in relation to the different ways of constructing AMAs. Introducing the concept of the Minimum Level of Interpretability (MLI) and drawing on examples from the field, we explore two overarching questions: whether a lack of model transparency prevents trust and whether model transparency helps us sufficiently understand AMAs. Finally, we conclude by recommending specific MLIs for various types of agent constructions, aiming to facilitate their safe deployment in real-world scenarios.
The green city as a driver of sustainable development
Authors: Azizi Loubna , Kouddane Noureddine
Published: July 2024

Given the accelerating pace of urbanization and worsening environmental constraints, it has become imperative to explore innovative and integrated solutions to shape a sustainable urban future. In this context, the emergence of the “Green City” stands out as an innovative approach to addressing environmental challenges while promoting sustainable urban development. This study aims to deepen our understanding of the crucial role played by the Green City as a driver to overcome obstacles related to environmental and urban sustainability. To achieve this objective, our methodology is based on several essential steps. Firstly, we establish a solid conceptual framework by comparing the Green City to sustainable cities. This initial step allows us to precisely define the contours and specific objectives of each concept, laying the groundwork for our comparative analysis. Next, we conduct a comprehensive analysis to explore how the Green City can contribute in a targeted manner to achieving sustainable development goals. By integrating these different approaches, our goal is to substantially advance knowledge and practices in sustainable urban planning, as well as the creation of more resilient and environmentally friendly cities.
Some Applications of Dynamical Belyi Polynomials
Authors: Anderson Jacqueline , Manes Michelle , Tobin Bella
Published: July 2024

We give necessary and sufficient conditions for post-critically finite polynomials to have persistent bad reduction at a given prime. We also answer in the negative a pair of questions posed by Silverman about conservative polynomials. Our proofs rely on conservative dynamical Belyi polynomials as exemplars of PCF (resp. conservative) maps.
Tail variance and confidence of using tail conditional expectation: Analytical representation, capital adequacy, and asymptotics
Authors: Duan Jun , Landsman Zinoviy , Yao Jing
Published: July 2024

In this paper, we explore the applications of Tail Variance (TV) as a measure of tail riskiness and the confidence level of using Tail Conditional Expectation (TCE)-based risk capital. While TCE measures the expected loss of a risk that exceeds a certain threshold, TV measures the variability of risk along its tails. We first derive analytical formulas of TV and TCE for a large variety of probability distributions. These formulas are useful instruments for relevant research works on tail risk measures. We then propose a distribution-free approach utilizing TV to estimate the lower bounds of the confidence level of using TCE-based risk capital. In doing so, we introduce sharpened conditional probability inequalities, which halve the bounds of conventional Markov and Cantelli inequalities. Such an approach is easy to implement. We further investigate the characterization of tail risks by TV through an exploration of TV’s asymptotics. A distribution-free limit formula is derived for the asymptotics of TV. To further investigate the asymptotic properties, we consider two broad distribution families defined on tails, namely, the polynomial-tailed distributions and the exponential-tailed distributions. The two distribution families are found to exhibit an asymptotic equivalence between TV and the reciprocal square of the hazard rate. We also establish asymptotic relationships between TCE and VaR for the two families. Our asymptotic analysis contributes to the existing research by unifying the asymptotic expressions and the convergence rate of TV for Student-t distributions, exponential distributions, and normal distributions, which complements the discussion on the convergence rate of univariate cases in [28]. To show the usefulness of our results, we present two case studies based on real data from the industry. We first show how to use conditional inequalities to assess the confidence of using TCE-based risk capital for different types of insurance businesses. Then, for financial data, we provide alternative evidence for the relationship between the data frequency and the tail categorization by the asymptotics of TV.
Normierung von Tests und Fragebögen
Authors: Urban Julian , Scherrer Vsevolod , Strobel Anja , Preckel Franzis
Published: July 2024

Zusammenfassung: Normen psychometrischer Verfahren sind eine entscheidende Voraussetzung für den Vergleich und die Interpretation von Testwerten. Die konventionelle Methode der Normierung – die Bildung von Subgruppen zu kontinuierlich verteilten Merkmalen (z. B. Altersnormen) – führt jedoch zu verzerrten Normen, sofern nicht sehr große Stichproben erhoben werden. Neue kontinuierliche Normierungsmethoden wie semi-parametrisches und parametrisches Normieren scheinen eine Lösung für dieses Ökonomie-Präzisions-Dilemma darzustellen. Ziel dieses Beitrags ist es, einen systematischen Überblick über die Normierungsmethoden deutschsprachiger Verfahren mittels einer stratifizierten Stichprobe von nach 2010 veröffentlichten Verfahren aus den Bereichen Leistung, Entwicklung, Intelligenz und Persönlichkeit zu liefern. Unser systematischer Überblick zeigt, dass die angewandten Normierungspraktiken weitestgehend den Teststandards entsprechen. Mehrheitlich werden konventionelle Normen berichtet, wobei sich ebenfalls ein Trend hin zur Nutzung kontinuierlicher Normierungsmethoden zeigt. Optimierbar erscheinen die Beschreibung des Normierungsprozesses und die Formulierung von Anwendungsempfehlungen. Beides wird jedoch gebraucht, um die Nutzung kontinuierlicher Normierungsmethoden bei der Testentwicklung zu erleichtern.
Shifting Standards When Judging Male and Female Majority and Minority Students’ Non-Suitability for the Academic Track?
Authors: Kessels Ursula , Steinmayr Ricarda , Nishen Anna K.
Published: July 2024

Abstract: Because tracking recommendations can be impactful for students’ educational paths, it is important to understand how they may be influenced by students’ social group memberships. The Shifting Standards Model predicts that teachers show both negative and positive biases toward students belonging to stereotyped groups, and that this depends on the framing of the context. In a 2 (student’s ethnicity: Turkish vs. German) × 2 (student’s gender: male vs. female) × 2 (standard: minimum vs. confirmatory) between-subjects design, n = 185 student teachers indicated how much evidence of learning-detrimental behavior they needed to see from a student before suspecting vs. being certain (minimum vs. confirmatory standards) that the student was not suitable for the academic track. The predictions of the Shifting Standards Model were unexpectedly not supported. We discuss these results in relation to the usefulness of parsimonious theoretical arguments as well as an intersectional analysis of tracking recommendations.
Educational Disparities in Primary School Students in Austria
Authors: Kollmayer Marlene , Bürger Sarah
Published: July 2024

Abstract: In this study, we analyze data from the Austrian assessments of educational standards in German and Mathematics, applying an intersectional perspective. We simultaneously consider the effects of gender, socioeconomic status (SES), and immigrant background on fourth-graders’ competencies in both subjects. Besides the expected main effects – girls perform better in German, boys better in mathematics, lower SES and immigrant background predict lower performance in both subjects – we found the following interaction effects: Second-generation immigrant students showed better achievement in German than their peers who had migrated to Austria later in life, except when their country of origin was Turkey. In students without an immigrant background, SES was more strongly related to achievement in mathematics in boys, while among students originating from former Yugoslavia, SES was more strongly related to achievement in German in girls. The study demonstrates that intersectional perspectives in quantitative educational research can help to identify groups with increased support needs.
Revisiting Elevated δ13C Values of Sediment on Modern Carbonate Platforms
Authors: Trower Elizabeth J. , Hibner Brianna M. , Lincoln Tyler A. , Dodd Jacqueline E. , Hagen Cedric J. , Cantine Marjorie D. , Gomes Maya L.
Published: July 2024

The measured carbon isotopic compositions of carbonate sediments (δ13Ccarb) on modern platforms are commonly 13C‐enriched compared to predicted values for minerals forming in isotopic equilibrium with the dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC) of modern seawater. This offset undermines the assumption that δ13Ccarb values of analogous facies in the rock record are an accurate archive of information about Earth's global carbon cycle. We present a new data set of the diurnal variation in carbonate chemistry and seawater δ13CDIC values on a modern carbonate platform. These data demonstrate that δ13Ccarb values on modern platforms are broadly representative of seawater, but only after accounting for the recent decrease in the δ13C value of atmospheric CO2 and shallow seawater DIC due to anthropogenic carbon release, a phenomenon commonly referred to as the 13C Suess effect. These findings highlight an important, yet overlooked, aspect of some modern carbonate systems, which must inform their use as ancient analogs.
A homozygous nonsense variant in the alternatively spliced VLDLR exon 4 causes a neurodevelopmental disorder without features of VLDLR cerebellar hypoplasia
Authors: Holling Tess , Abdelrazek Ibrahim M. , Elhady Ghada M. , Abd Elmaksoud Marwa , Ryu Seung Woo , Abdalla Ebtesam , Kutsche Kerstin
Published: July 2024

VLDLR cerebellar hypoplasia is characterized by intellectual disability, non-progressive cerebellar ataxia, and seizures. The characteristic MRI findings include hypoplasia of the inferior portion of the cerebellar vermis and hemispheres, simplified cortical gyration, and a small brain stem. Biallelic VLDLR pathogenic variants cause loss-of-function of the encoded very low-density lipoprotein receptor. VLDLR exons 4 and 16 are alternatively spliced, resulting in the expression of four transcript variants, including two exon 4-lacking mRNAs expressed in the human brain. Previously reported VLDLR pathogenic variants affect all four transcript variants. Here we report on two sisters with facial dysmorphism, microcephaly, intellectual disability, and normal brain imaging. Exome sequencing in one patient identified the homozygous VLDLR nonsense variant c.376C>T; p.(Gln126*) in exon 4; her similarly affected sister also carried the homozygous variant and parents were heterozygous carriers. VLDLR transcript analysis identified mRNAs with and without exon 4 in patient fibroblasts, while exon 4-containing VLDLR mRNAs were predominantly detected in control fibroblasts. We found significantly reduced VLDLR mRNA levels in patient compared to control cells, likely caused by nonsense-mediated mRNA decay of exon 4-containing VLDLR transcripts. Expression of neuronal VLDLR isoforms produced from exon 4-lacking transcripts may have protected both patients from developing the cerebellar hypoplasia phenotype.
BRCA1 orchestrates the response to BI-2536 and its combination with alisertib in MYC-driven small cell lung cancer
Authors: Zhang Jiahui , Liu Xiaoli , Hou Peng , Lv Yang , Li Gongfeng , Cao Guozhen , Wang Huogang , Lin Wenchu
Published: July 2024

PLK1 is currently at the forefront of mitotic research and has emerged as a potential target for small cell lung cancer (SCLC) therapy. However, the factors influencing the efficacy of PLK1 inhibitors remain unclear. Herein, BRCA1 was identified as a key factor affecting the response of SCLC cells to BI-2536. Targeting AURKA with alisertib, at a non-toxic concentration, reduced the BI-2536-induced accumulation of BRCA1 and RAD51, leading to DNA repair defects and mitotic cell death in SCLC cells. In vivo experiments confirmed that combining BI-2536 with alisertib impaired DNA repair capacity and significantly delayed tumor growth. Additionally, GSEA analysis and loss- and gain-of-function assays demonstrated that MYC/MYCN signaling is crucial for determining the sensitivity of SCLC cells to BI-2536 and its combination with alisertib. The study further revealed a positive correlation between RAD51 expression and PLK1/AURKA expression, and a negative correlation with the IC50 values of BI-2536. Manipulating RAD51 expression significantly influenced the efficacy of BI-2536 and restored the MYC/MYCN-induced enhancement of BI-2536 sensitivity in SCLC cells. Our findings indicate that the BRCA1 and MYC/MYCN-RAD51 axes govern the response of small cell lung cancer to BI-2536 and its combination with alisertib. This study propose the combined use of BI-2536 and alisertib as a novel therapeutic strategy for the treatment of SCLC patients with MYC/MYCN activation.
The parasitic lifestyle of an archaeal symbiont
Authors: Hamm Joshua N. , Liao Yan , von Kügelgen Andriko , Dombrowski Nina , Landers Evan , Brownlee Christopher , Johansson Emma M. V. , Whan Renee M. , Baker Matthew A. B. , Baum Buzz , Bharat Tanmay A. M. , Duggin Iain G. , Spang Anja , Cavicchioli Ricardo
Published: July 2024

DPANN archaea are a diverse group of microorganisms characterised by small cells and reduced genomes. To date, all cultivated DPANN archaea are ectosymbionts that require direct cell contact with an archaeal host species for growth and survival. However, these interactions and their impact on the host species are poorly understood. Here, we show that a DPANN archaeon (Candidatus Nanohaloarchaeum antarcticus) engages in parasitic interactions with its host (Halorubrum lacusprofundi) that result in host cell lysis. During these interactions, the nanohaloarchaeon appears to enter, or be engulfed by, the host cell. Our results provide experimental evidence for a predatory-like lifestyle of an archaeon, suggesting that at least some DPANN archaea may have roles in controlling host populations and their ecology.
Asgard archaea defense systems and their roles in the origin of eukaryotic immunity
Authors: Leão Pedro , Little Mary E. , Appler Kathryn E. , Sahaya Daphne , Aguilar-Pine Emily , Currie Kathryn , Finkelstein Ilya J. , De Anda Valerie , Baker Brett J.
Published: July 2024

Dozens of new antiviral systems have been recently characterized in bacteria. Some of these systems are present in eukaryotes and appear to have originated in prokaryotes, but little is known about these defense mechanisms in archaea. Here, we explore the diversity and distribution of defense systems in archaea and identify 2610 complete systems in Asgardarchaeota, a group of archaea related to eukaryotes. The Asgard defense systems comprise 89 unique systems, including argonaute, NLR, Mokosh, viperin, Lassamu, and CBASS. Asgard viperin and argonaute proteins have structural homology to eukaryotic proteins, and phylogenetic analyses suggest that eukaryotic viperin proteins were derived from Asgard viperins. We show that Asgard viperins display anti-phage activity when heterologously expressed in bacteria. Eukaryotic and bacterial argonaute proteins appear to have originated in Asgardarchaeota, and Asgard argonaute proteins have argonaute-PIWI domains, key components of eukaryotic RNA interference systems. Our results support that Asgardarchaeota played important roles in the origin of antiviral defense systems in eukaryotes.
A topological mechanism for robust and efficient global oscillations in biological networks
Authors: Zheng Chongbin , Tang Evelyn
Published: July 2024

Long and stable timescales are often observed in complex biochemical networks, such as in emergent oscillations. How these robust dynamics persist remains unclear, given the many stochastic reactions and shorter time scales demonstrated by underlying components. We propose a topological model that produces long oscillations around the network boundary, reducing the system dynamics to a lower-dimensional current in a robust manner. Using this to model KaiC, which regulates the circadian rhythm in cyanobacteria, we compare the coherence of oscillations to that in other KaiC models. Our topological model localizes currents on the system edge, with an efficient regime of simultaneously increased precision and decreased cost. Further, we introduce a new predictor of coherence from the analysis of spectral gaps, and show that our model saturates a global thermodynamic bound. Our work presents a new mechanism and parsimonious description for robust emergent oscillations in complex biological networks.
The influence of HLA genetic variation on plasma protein expression
Authors: Krishna Chirag , Chiou Joshua , Sakaue Saori , Kang Joyce B. , Christensen Stephen M. , Lee Isac , Aksit Melis Atalar , Kim Hye In , von Schack David , Raychaudhuri Soumya , Ziemek Daniel , Hu Xinli
Published: July 2024

Genetic variation in the human leukocyte antigen (HLA) loci is associated with risk of immune-mediated diseases, but the molecular effects of HLA polymorphism are unclear. Here we examined the effects of HLA genetic variation on the expression of 2940 plasma proteins across 45,330 Europeans in the UK Biobank, with replication analyses across multiple ancestry groups. We detected 504 proteins affected by HLA variants (HLA-pQTL), including widespread trans effects by autoimmune disease risk alleles. More than 80% of the HLA-pQTL fine-mapped to amino acid positions in the peptide binding groove. HLA-I and II affected proteins expressed in similar cell types but in different pathways of both adaptive and innate immunity. Finally, we investigated potential HLA-pQTL effects on disease by integrating HLA-pQTL with fine-mapped HLA-disease signals in the UK Biobank. Our data reveal the diverse effects of HLA genetic variation and aid the interpretation of associations between HLA alleles and immune-mediated diseases.
Adaptative survival of Aspergillus fumigatus to echinocandins arises from cell wall remodeling beyond β−1,3-glucan synthesis inhibition
Authors: Dickwella Widanage Malitha C. , Gautam Isha , Sarkar Daipayan , Mentink-Vigier Frederic , Vermaas Josh V. , Ding Shi-You , Lipton Andrew S. , Fontaine Thierry , Latgé Jean-Paul , Wang Ping , Wang Tuo
Published: July 2024

Antifungal echinocandins inhibit the biosynthesis of β−1,3-glucan, a major and essential polysaccharide component of the fungal cell wall. However, the efficacy of echinocandins against the pathogen Aspergillus fumigatus is limited. Here, we use solid-state nuclear magnetic resonance (ssNMR) and other techniques to show that echinocandins induce dynamic changes in the assembly of mobile and rigid polymers within the A. fumigatus cell wall. The reduction of β−1,3-glucan induced by echinocandins is accompanied by a concurrent increase in levels of chitin, chitosan, and highly polymorphic α−1,3-glucans, whose physical association with chitin maintains cell wall integrity and modulates water permeability. The rearrangement of the macromolecular network is dynamic and controls the permeability and circulation of the drug throughout the cell wall. Thus, our results indicate that echinocandin treatment triggers compensatory rearrangements in the cell wall that may help A. fumigatus to tolerate the drugs’ antifungal effects.
The highly differentiated gut of Pachnoda marginata hosts sequential microbiomes: microbial ecology and potential applications
Authors: Vidal-Verdú Àngela , Torrent Daniel , Iglesias Alba , Latorre-Pérez Adriel , Abendroth Christian , Corbín-Agustí Paola , Peretó Juli , Porcar Manuel
Published: July 2024

Insect gut microbiomes play a crucial role in the insect development and are shaped, among other factors, by the specialized insect diet habits as well as the morphological structure of the gut. Rose chafers (Pachnoda spp.; Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae) have a highly differentiated gut characterized by a pronounced hindgut dilation which resembles a miniaturized rumen. Specifically, the species Pachnoda marginata has not been previously studied in detail in terms of microbial ecology. Here, we show a fine scale study of the highly compartmentalized gut of P. marginata by using amplicon and metagenomic sequencing to shed light on the bacterial, archaeal and fungal communities thriving in each section of the gut. We found a microbial gradient along the gut from aerobic (foregut) to strictly anaerobic communities (hindgut). In addition, we have characterized interesting biological activities and metabolic pathways of gut microbial communities related to cellulose degradation, methane production and sulfate reduction. Taken together, our results reveal the highly diverse microbial community and the potential of P. marginata gut as a source of industrially relevant microbial diversity.
Magnetic nanocomposite for lead (II) removal from water
Authors: Shahzad Asif , Aslibeiki Bagher , Slimani Sawssen , Ghosh Sagnik , Vocciante Marco , Grotti Marco , Comite Antonio , Peddis Davide , Sarkar Tapati
Published: July 2024

A magnetic perovskite-spinel oxide nanocomposite synthesized through a sol–gel self-combustion process is used for the first time as an adsorbent to remove toxic heavy metals (i.e., Pb2+). The synthesized LaFeO3:CoFe2O4 ((LFO)1:(CFO)x) (x = 0.11–0.87) nanocomposites possess good stability, abundant oxygenated active binding sites, and unique structural features, making them suitable for removing divalent Pb2+ ions. Scanning electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, BET surface area, magnetization measurements, zeta-potential analyses, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy were used to analyze the nanocomposites, and their structural changes after Pb2+ ions adsorption. Batch tests confirmed that (LFO)1:(CFO)x efficiently removes Pb2+ from water with a maximum adsorption capacity of 105.96 mg/g. The detailed quantitative study indicates that the interaction of hydroxyl groups with Pb2+ ions occurs through electrostatic interactions and complex formation. We also demonstrate a new ring-magnetic separator system that allows magnetic separation of the toxic ions at a higher speed compared to traditional block magnets. The unique structure, high porosity, large specific surface area, and oxygenated functional groups of (LFO)1:(CFO)x nanocomposites make them promising materials for removal of heavy metal ions and possibly other environmental pollutants. This study provides a new approach to preparing nanocomposites of magnetic spinel ferrites with perovskite oxides for environmental applications.
Nonparametric inference of higher order interaction patterns in networks
Authors: Wegner Anatol E. , Olhede Sofia C.
Published: July 2024

Local interaction patterns play an important role in the structural and functional organization of complex networks. Here we propose a method for obtaining parsimonious decompositions of networks into higher order interactions which can take the form of arbitrary motifs. The method is based on a class of analytically solvable generative models which in combination with non-parametric priors allow us to infer higher order interactions from dyadic graph data without any prior knowledge on the types or frequencies of such interactions. We test the presented approach on simulated data for which we recover the set of underlying higher order interactions to a high degree of accuracy. For empirical networks the method identifies concise sets of atomic subgraphs from within thousands of candidates that cover a large fraction of edges and include higher order interactions of known structural and functional significance. Being based on statistical inference the method also produces a fit of the network to analytically tractable higher order models opening new avenues for the systematic study of higher order interactions.
Self-adaptive rotational electromagnetic energy generation as an alternative to triboelectric and piezoelectric transductions
Authors: Rolo Pedro , Vidal João V. , Kholkin Andrei L. , Soares dos Santos Marco P.
Published: July 2024

Triboelectric and piezoelectric energy harvesters can hardly power most microelectronic systems. Rotational electromagnetic harvesters are very promising alternatives, but their performance is highly dependent on the varying mechanical sources. This study presents an innovative approach to significantly increase the performance of rotational harvesters, based on dynamic coil switching strategies for optimization of the coil connection architecture during energy generation. Both analytical and experimental validations of the concept of self-adaptive rotational harvester were carried out. The adaptive harvester was able to provide an average power increase of 63.3% and 79.5% when compared to a non-adaptive 16-coil harvester for harmonic translation and harmonic swaying excitations, respectively, and 83.5% and 87.2% when compared to a non-adaptive 8-coil harvester. The estimated energy conversion efficiency was also enhanced from ~80% to 90%. This study unravels an emerging technological approach to power a wide range of applications that cannot be powered by other vibrationally driven harvesters.
Language or rating scales based classifications of emotions: computational analysis of language and alexithymia
Authors: Sikström Sverker , Nicolai Miriam , Ahrendt Josephine , Nevanlinna Suvi , Stille Lotta
Published: July 2024

Rating scales are the dominating tool for the quantitative assessment of mental health. They are often believed to have a higher validity than language-based responses, which are the natural way of communicating mental states. Furthermore, it is unclear how difficulties articulating emotions—alexithymia—affect the accuracy of language-based communication of emotions. We investigated whether narratives describing emotional states are more accurately classified by questions-based computational analysis of language (QCLA) compared to commonly used rating scales. Additionally, we examined how this is affected by alexithymia. In Phase 1, participants (N = 348) generated narratives describing events related to depression, anxiety, satisfaction, and harmony. In Phase 2, another set of participants summarized the emotions described in the narratives of Phase 1 in five descriptive words and rating scales (PHQ-9, GAD-7, SWLS, and HILS). The words were quantified with a natural language processing model (i.e., LSA) and classified with machine learning (i.e., multinomial regression). The results showed that the language-based responses can be more accurate in classifying the emotional states compared to the rating scales. The degree of alexithymia did not influence the correctness of classification based on words or rating scales, suggesting that QCLA is not sensitive to alexithymia. However, narratives generated by people with high alexithymia were more difficult to classify than those generated by people with low alexithymia. These results suggest that the assessment of mental health may be improved by language-based responses analyzed by computational methods compared to currently used rating scales.
Colorimetric detection of single-nucleotide mutations based on rolling circle amplification and G-quadruplex-based DNAzyme
Authors: Ouedraogo Serge Yannick , Zeye Moutanou Modeste Judes , Zhou Xi , Kiendrebeogo Touwendpoulimdé Isabelle , Zoure Abdou Azaque , Chen Hanchun , Chen Fangzhi , Ma Changbei
Published: July 2024

A facile colorimetric method has been developed for the detection of single-nucleotide mutations based on rolling circle amplification and G-quadruplex-based DNAzyme.
A magnetic mucus-penetrating nanoagent boosting phlegm elimination for inhalation injury treatment
Authors: Waheed Saquib , Huang Guangtao , Shekh Mehdihasan , Wang Feng , Li Zhibin , Wu Jun
Published: July 2024

This study explores using magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) with NIPAM and PEG coatings, loaded with ambroxol (MNP@PNIPAM-AH@PEG), for inhalation injury treatment. PEG aids mucus penetration, and NIPAM enhances drug release, resolving sputum and reducing inflammation.
Enhanced anticancer effect of lysozyme-functionalized metformin-loaded shellac nanoparticles on a 3D cell model: role of the nanoparticle and payload concentrations
Authors: Wang Anheng , Madden Leigh A. , Paunov Vesselin N.
Published: July 2024

We report a novel approach for effective targeting of 3D tumour cell culture based on protease-functionalised metformin nanocarriers and explore the roles of the nanoparticle concentration and the drug payload.
Investigation of SrB4O7:Tm2+ luminescence for temperature imaging with high sensitivity based on time-resolved luminescence
Authors: Zhang Qian , Liao Zhicheng , Qiu Liting , Wei Xiantao , Chen Yonghu , Yin Min
Published: July 2024

The temperature sensing based on time-resolved luminescence by employing an ICCD camera was performed to acquire higher sensitivity thermometer and real-time thermal imaging.
A twist on a classic scaffold: rational design of a new bimetallic platform
Authors: Rumi Sultana P. , Zakharov Lev N. , Desnoyer Addison N.
Published: July 2024

A new family of binucleating ligands is prepared and shown to successfully coordinate the first-row transition metals titanium and vanadium.
Engineering inorganic nanozyme architectures for decomposition of reactive oxygen species
Authors: Halmagyi Tibor G. , Noureen Laila , Szerlauth Adél , Szilagyi Istvan
Published: July 2024

Nanozyme-based composites with efficient reactive oxygen species-scavenging activity can be designed by heteroaggregation as well as surface or structural modification of nanomaterials.
Strong transboundary electron transfer of high-entropy quantum-dots driving rapid hydrogen evolution kinetics
Authors: Zhao Hao , Liu Mengyuan , Wang Qiansen , Li YuZe , Chen Yubin , Zhu Yanping , Yue Zhouying , Li Jun , Wang Guoliang , Zou Zhiqing , Cheng Qingqing , Yang Hui
Published: July 2024

Strong transboundary electron transfer in high-entropy quantum-dots significantly accelerates the Tafel kinetics in HER, which effectively reduces the cost of cathode catalyst in proton exchange membrane water electrolysis (PEMWE).
Probiotics suppress LL37 generated rosacea-like skin inflammation by modulating the TLR2/MyD88/NF-κB signaling pathway
Authors: Qi Xinyue , Xiao Yiran , Zhang Xinfeng , Zhu Zhenlin , Zhang Hongyan , Wei Jing , Zhao Zhixiang , Li Ji , Chen Tingtao
Published: July 2024

Ligilactobacillus salivarius 23-006 and Lacticaseibacillus paracasei 23-008 ameliorated rosacea-like inflammation in mice through modulation of the gut microbiota and the TLR2/MyD88/NF-κB pathway.
Soft PDMS-mediated formation of bovine serum albumin 3D coffee stain structures for reversible hydrophilic patterning
Authors: Cheng Samuel Kok Suen , Lopez Kimberly , Jalali-Mousavi Maryam , Sheng Jian
Published: July 2024

3D saddle coffee stain is produced when an intermediate-concentration BSA drop evaporates over a soft hydrophobic substrate and deposits a thin protein film enabling reversible hydrophilic patterning.
Post-synthetic exchange in a zirconium metal–organic framework for efficient photoreduction of CO2 to formate
Authors: Chandran P. Akhil , Radha Govu , Meenu P. C. , Roy Sounak , Aggarwal Himanshu
Published: July 2024

Post-synthetic modification of a water-stable Zr–NDI MOF to a Zr–Ti mixed-metal MOF results in an enhanced photocatalytic CO2 conversion to formate.
Si, B-containing dynamic covalent bonds enable excellent flame retardancy and reduced fire hazards for cyanate ester resin
Authors: Liu Rui , Zhang Yifeng , Li Zheng , Wang Rui , Yan Hongxia
Published: July 2024

This work highlights an innovative perspective in dynamic chemistry aimed at forming a compact char layer to achieve high fire safety of cyanate ester resin.
Development of a laser induced graphene (LIG) and polylactic acid (PLA) shape memory polymer composite with simultaneous multi-stimuli response and deformation self-sensing characteristics
Authors: Gholami Reza , Lawan Ibrahim , Luengrojanakul Panuwat , Ebrahimi Sahar , Ahn Cheol-Hee , Rimdusit Sarawut
Published: July 2024

Integration of laser induced graphene (LIG) into polylactic acid (PLA) resulted in a shape memory polymer composite (SMPC) with multi-stimuli response and simultaneous deformation self-sensing characteristics.
Preparation of sp2 carbon-bonded π-conjugated COF aerogels by ultrasound-assisted mild solvothermal reaction for multi-functional applications
Authors: Wang Qiaomu , Gao Lei , Wang Peng , Wang Yandong , Xu Yang , Xu Haocheng , Wang Xuebin , Meng Zhen , Xi Kai
Published: July 2024

COFs aerogels establish interpenetrating network structures on centimeter scale that increases the accessibility of dominant channels and the convenience of real application, which radically gets rid of the difficult reprocessing problems of powders.
Design of terahertz metamaterial absorbers with switchable absorption functions utilizing thermal and electrical dual-modulation strategies
Authors: Qin Xuefeng , Fang Sijun , Duan Guiyuan , Xu Chongyang , Jiang Jieying , Xiong Han , Wang Ben-Xin
Published: July 2024

An integrated terahertz metamaterial absorber, based on thermal and electrical dual-modulation strategies, with two different and tunable absorption functions is demonstrated.
Graphene oxide/graphitic carbon nitride/polyamide oxime nanofibers for adsorption and photocatalytic reduction of uranium from seawater
Authors: Qin Shiliang , Sha Jianang , Yang Peipei , Li Songwei , Liu Chuntai , Shen Changyu
Published: July 2024

The advancement of the extraction of uranium(vi) (U(vi)) from seawater holds significant strategic importance for the sustainable progression of nuclear energy.
Deciphering the doublet luminescence mechanism in neutral organic radicals: spin-exchange coupling, reversed-quartet mechanism, excited-state dynamics
Authors: Lv LingLing , Zhang YanYing , Ning ZiYe
Published: July 2024

Fluorescence spectra and radiation rates (kf, unit in s−1) for the excited D2 state of TTM-1CZ-An at different temperatures.
Salt-inclusion chalcogenides with d-orbital components: unveiling remarkable nonlinear optical properties and dual-band photoluminescence
Authors: Pei Shao-Min , Zhang Ming-Shu , Wu Fan , Guo Yan , Jiang Xiao-Ming , Liu Bin-Wen , Guo Guo-Cong
Published: July 2024

The present study highlights two isostructural salt-inclusion chalcogenides, namely [K4Cl][MnGa9S16] and [K4Cl][HgGa9S16], which demonstrate exceptional performances in nonlinear optics and photoluminescence fields, respectively.
Synthesis of jet fuel range paraffins from cellulose
Authors: Cong Fengyao , Yu Zhenjie , Wang Aiqin , Cong Yu , Zhang Tao , Li Ning
Published: July 2024

Jet fuel range C16 and C11 paraffins were synthesized by the hydroxyalkylation/alkylation of cellulose derivated 5-methylfurfural and its decarbonylation product 2-methylfuran, followed by hydrodeoxygenation (HDO).
A multifunctional MoS2/Ni9S8/NF catalyst for synchronous desulfurization and hydrogen evolution by a self-driven system
Authors: Hao Xiaoqiong , Jiang Keqi , Liu Guangfeng , Zhou Shiyuan , Wang Danfeng , Zhang Ye , Zhang Tingyu , Liu Yingjie , Gu Peiyang
Published: July 2024

A multifunctional MoS2/Ni9S8/NF catalyst, designed through heterojunction engineering and elaborate nanostructuring, has been developed for self-powered simultaneous hydrogen production and sulfur recovery.
Experimental trends and theoretical descriptors for electrochemical reduction of carbon dioxide to formate over Sn-based bimetallic catalysts
Authors: Han Xue , Wu Binhong , Wang Yan , Nichols Nathaniel N. , Kwon Yongjun , Yuan Yong , Xie Zhenhua , Kang Sinwoo , Gil Byeongjun , Wang Caiqi , Mou Tianyou , Lin Hongfei , Nian Yao , Chang Qiaowan
Published: July 2024

Understanding CO2RR selectivity of Sn-based catalysts by considering both the real-time structural evolution of catalysts and all key intermediates involved.
Location effects of vanadium in NiFe layered double hydroxides for oxygen evolution reaction
Authors: Ma Mengze , Zhang Yechi , Ding Xiaoqian , Jing Jianlei , Jin Linbo , Liu Wei , Zhou Daojin , Sun Xiaoming
Published: July 2024

V can exist as three vanadium-based species, i.e., doped VIII in LDHs laminates, intercalated VO3− between LDHs interlayers, and free VO3− as an additive in KOH electrolyte. The study shows their role in altering the OER performance of NiFe-LDHs.
Enhancing the water oxidation electrocatalysis of correlated perovskite nickelates by disordering NiO6 octahedra
Authors: Li Haifan , Wang Yuzhao , Gao Jingxin , Wang Vei , Nie Kaiqi , Meng Fanqi , Xu Xiaoguang , Jiang Yong , Chen Nuofu , Sun Yifei , Chen Jikun
Published: July 2024

Higher OER performance can be achieved via A-site co-occupation in SmxNd1−xNiO3, in which case the more disordered alignment of distorted NiO6 octahedrons results in a more centralized p–d hybridization near EF.
Regulating electric double-layer dynamics for robust solid-electrolyte interface layer in fast-charging graphite anodes
Authors: Bang Jaeyeon , Park Seong-Soo , Kim Kyungjun , Lee Hwiju , Choi Ilyoung , Kim Youngugk , Moon JangHyuk , Lee Sang-Min
Published: July 2024

The concentration of PF6− anions within the electric double layer at the electrode/electrolyte interface is increased by the cobalt phosphide coating on the surface of synthetic graphite particles. This results in the formation of a LiF-rich SEI layer, enhancing the fast-charging performance.
Visible light activated dendrimers for solar thermal energy storage and release below 0 °C
Authors: Xu Xingtang , Li Chonghua , Chen Wenjing , Feng Jie , Li Wen-Ying , Wang Guojie , Yu Haifeng
Published: July 2024

Molecular solar thermal (MOST) fuels offer a closed-cycle and renewable energy storage strategy that can harvest photons within the chemical conformations and release heat on demand through reversible isomerization of molecular photoswitches.
Fluorinated 2D conjugated porous organic polymer films with modular structural topology for controlled molecular sieving
Authors: Gayle Jessica , Hardian Rifan , Guo Galio , Wang Xu , Rahman Muhammad M. , Verduzco Rafael , Vajtai Robert , Ajayan Pulickel , Roy Soumyabrata , Szekely Gyorgy
Published: July 2024

Controlling the nanofiltration performance of chemically stable 2D conjugated porous organic polymer membranes with tunable pore architectures via functionalization, pore size and pore topology (homopore and heteropore) modifications.
Correction: Vertically aligned boron-doped diamond nanostructures as highly efficient electrodes for electrochemical supercapacitors
Authors: Suman Shradha , Sharma Dhananjay Kumar , Szabo Ondrej , Rakesh Benadict , Marton Marian , Vojs Marian , Vincze Andrej , Dutta Soumya Prakash , Balaji Umapathi , Debasish Debidutta , Sakthivel Ramasamy , Sankaran Kamatchi Jothiramalingam , Kromka Alexander
Published: July 2024

Correction for ‘Vertically aligned boron-doped diamond nanostructures as highly efficient electrodes for electrochemical supercapacitors' by Shradha Suman et al., J. Mater. Chem. A, 2024, https://doi.org/10.1039/D3TA07728D.
Interlayer sliding induced antiferroelectricity–ferroelectricity–antiferroelectricity transition in bilayer δ-SiX (X = S/Se)
Authors: Qu Zihan , Wang Xiaoteng , Zhang Jishun , Jiang Shuo , Xu Zuyu , Yang Fei , Wu Zuheng , Dai Yuehua , Zhu Yunlai
Published: July 2024

There is a reversible antiferroelectric–ferroelectric–antiferroelectric (AFE–FE–AFE) phase transition appearing through mechanical interlayer sliding for bilayer δ-SiX (X =S/Se), bringing up more opportunities for novel volatile devices.
Adamantyl ligand-induced one-dimensional CsPbBr3 perovskite nanocrystal formation: mechanism and anisotropic photoluminescence
Authors: Deng Bo-Yi , Li Hong-Fei , Liao Zi-Hao , Zhou Zi-Rong , Wang Feng
Published: July 2024

Perovskite nanocrystalline materials have good development prospects in the fields of solar cells, photoelectric detection, fluorescent sensors and light-emitting diodes.
Multiscale computational analysis of the effect of end group modification on PM6:BTP-x OSCs performance
Authors: Wu Qingxing , Xiang Chongchen , Zhang Guangjun , Zou Yingping , Liu Wanqiang
Published: July 2024

Theoretical computational simulation are used to analyse the molecular stacking characteristics of PM6:BTP-x OSCs and the role of end group modifications.
Unique switching mode of HfO2 among fluorite-type ferroelectric candidates
Authors: Mao Ge-Qi , Yu Heng , Xue Kan-Hao , Huang Jinhai , Zhou Zijian , Miao Xiangshui
Published: July 2024

The primary uniqueness of HfO2 is its indispensible covalent bonding nature, though its high cation coordination number reflects a typical ionic compound.
Aggregation induced emission (AIE) based donor–π–acceptor fluorophores: an approach to fabricate acidochromic sensors and white light emitting diodes
Authors: Rana Snigdhamayee , Vaidyanathan Sivakumar , Patel Sabita
Published: July 2024

This work reports the design and synthesis of two AIE active donor–π–acceptor fluorophores (TPASCNPy and TPESCNPy) and evaluation of their potential in the fabrication of acidochromic sensors and white light emitting diodes.
Scandia-doped zirconia for the electrochemical detection of hazardous dihydroxybenzene (DHB) isomers in water
Authors: Ferlazzo Angelo , Gulino Antonino , Neri Giovanni
Published: July 2024

Modified yttria- and scandia-doped zirconium oxide were exploited for the development of an effective electrochemical sensor for the simultaneous detection of dihydroxy benzene (DHB) isomers in water.
Exploring the role of polymer interactions during water electrolysis under basic conditions with bifunctional cobalt corroles
Authors: Sahoo Sameeta , Johnson Elizabeth K. , Wei Xiangru , Zhang Sen , Machan Charles W.
Published: July 2024

Cobalt corroles modified with aminoalkyl chains show increased catalytic performance for bifunctional water splitting at pH 14 when immobilized.
Characteristics of Speech Auditory Brainstem Response in Preschool Children With Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder
Authors: Sun Yuying , Zhou Jia , Zhu Huiqin , Liu Panting , Lin Huanxi , Xiao Zhenglu , Yu Xinyue , Qian Jun , Tong Meiling , Chi Xia , Hong Qin
Published: July 2024

Objective:

This study aimed to investigate the characteristics of auditory processing (AP) in preschool children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) using the speech auditory brainstem response (speech-ABR), which provides insights into the AP of speech signals in the central auditory nervous system (CANS).

Method:

A total of 84 preschool children diagnosed with ADHD, aged 4–6 years, were matched with 84 typically developing (TD) children based on gender and age. All children underwent speech-ABR testing, cognitive assessment using the Wechsler Preschool and Primary Scale of Intelligence–Fourth Edition or the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children–Fourth Edition, and a continuous performance test.

Results:

Children with ADHD exhibited significantly longer latencies of speech-ABR waveforms V, A, and D compared to TD children. Multiple linear regression analysis showed that the latencies of speech-ABR waves V, A, and D were affected by the presence of ADHD, but not by the full-scale intelligence quotient.

Conclusions:

This study revealed that preschool children with ADHD exhibited abnormal AP of speech signals in their CANS. The findings suggest that speech-ABR can be utilized as a reliable measure to evaluate AP ability in this population, as it remains unaffected by cognitive or attentional factors. The transient response (V, A) of speech-ABR was found to be a significant predictor of ADHD in a clinical setting. Early assessment of AP abnormalities via speech-ABR is recommended in preschool-age children to develop targeted interventions for ADHD.

Supplemental Material:

https://doi.org/10.23641/asha.26376502