bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Facilitating Faculty Development for Training in Multicultural Competence in Health Service Psychology Graduate Programs Through an International Collaboration
Authors: Gopal Baiju , Burlew Ann Kathleen , D’Souza Greta , George Tony Sam , Varghese Kelamparampil Joseph , Raval Vaishali V.
Published: October 2023

Abstract: A critical aspect of strengthening graduate-level clinical and counseling psychology training in cultural competence is to build capacity among faculty teaching in these programs to provide effective training. We addressed this need through an international collaboration between a university in India and another in the United States that included faculty travel to another country, peer mentoring groups, and review of curricula. This article describes faculty perceptions of this program and its perceived impact on their professional development and outlines curricular and research outcomes that resulted from the program. Across 4 years, a total of eight faculty visits took place with Indian faculty ( n = 13) visiting the United States and US faculty ( n = 11) visiting India. After each visit, faculty at both institutions responded to open-ended questions about the usefulness of these visits and completed a rating scale at the end of the program through an online survey. Faculty from both countries indicated that the visits contributed to enhanced cultural awareness and sensitivity by broadening their perspectives and learning about cultural similarities and differences. Indian faculty described learning about new pedagogical methods and enhanced motivation to engage in research and publish, along with new collaborative opportunities. US faculty described incorporating cultural competence more centrally in their teaching and clinical supervision through increased commitment, as well as inclusion of more global and diverse content and assignments aimed to increase students’ cultural competence. These responses provide preliminary support for the usefulness of cultural immersion experiences for faculty professional development.
Boundary Conditions for the Parametric Kalman Filter Forecast
Authors: Sabathier M. , Pannekoucke O. , Maget V. , Dahmen N.
Published: October 2023

This paper is a contribution to the exploration of the parametric Kalman filter (PKF), which is an approximation of the Kalman filter, where the error covariances are approximated by a covariance model. Here we focus on the covariance model parameterized from the variance and the anisotropy of the local correlations, and whose parameters dynamics provides a proxy for the full error‐covariance dynamics. For this covariance model, we aim to provide the boundary condition to specify in the prediction of PKF for bounded domains, focusing on Dirichlet and Neumann conditions when they are prescribed for the physical dynamics. An ensemble validation is proposed for the transport equation and for the heterogeneous diffusion equation over a bounded 1D domain. This ensemble validation requires to specify the auto‐correlation time‐scale needed to populate boundary perturbation that leads to prescribed uncertainty characteristics. The numerical simulations show that the PKF is able to reproduce the uncertainty diagnosed from the ensemble of forecast appropriately perturbed on the boundaries, which show the ability of the PKF to handle boundaries in the prediction of the uncertainties. It results that Dirichlet condition on the physical dynamics implies Dirichlet condition on the variance and on the anisotropy.
Global Estimation of the Eddy Kinetic Energy Dissipation From a Diagnostic Energy Balance
Authors: Torres Romain , Waldman Robin , Mak Julian , Séférian Roland
Published: October 2023

Mesoscale eddies dominate the ocean kinetic energy reservoir. However, how and where this energy flows out from the mesoscale remains uncertain. Here, a simplified mesoscale energy budget is used where sources due to baroclinic instability are balanced by all the dissipative processes approximated as a linear damping rate. In this simple model, the eddy kinetic energy (EKE) dissipation is computed from a climatological mean field of density and satellite altimeter data, and is proportional to an eddy efficiency parameter α. Assuming an eddy efficiency of α = 0.1, we find a global EKE dissipation rate of 0.66 ± 0.19 TW. The results show an intense dissipation near western boundary currents and in the Antarctic Circumpolar Current, where both large levels of energy and baroclinic conversion occur. The resulting geographical distribution of the dissipation rate brings new insights for closing the ocean kinetic energy budget, as well as constraining future mesoscale parameterizations and associated mixing processes.
Wavelike Structures of E‐Region Irregularities Observed by All‐Sky Radar at Low Latitude
Authors: Sun Wenjie , Li Guozhu , Han Chenying , Hu Lianhuan , Li Yi , Xie Haiyong , Zhao Xiukuan , Ning Baiqi , Liu Libo
Published: October 2023

We report for the first time a case of wavelike structures of E‐region irregularities observed by an all‐sky radar at Ledong (18.44°N, 108.97°E), China. The wavelike structures covered up to 250 km zonally, fluctuated in the vertical and horizontal planes, and were observed in the directions perpendicular and significantly off‐perpendicular to the geomagnetic field. The wavelength, and vertical and horizontal oscillating amplitudes were estimated at about 20–70, 5, and 2 km, respectively. Eventually, the large‐scale wavelike structure broke into spatially separated small‐scale patches and disappeared. The case provides observational evidence for the wave modulating sporadic E (Es) mechanism, which suggests that the wavelike structures of E‐region irregularity were primarily generated by wind shears and modulated by gravity waves. The wavelike structure was possibly an intermediate state between the continuous‐type and quasiperiodic‐type E‐region irregularities. The mechanism responsible for the echoing structure observed in off‐perpendicular directions is unclear. The possible contributions from refraction and reflection by intense Es layer/structure were discussed.
p63: a crucial player in epithelial stemness regulation
Authors: Li Yanan , Giovannini Sara , Wang Tingting , Fang Jiankai , Li Peishan , Shao Changshun , Wang Ying ,   TOR centre, Agostini Massimiliano , Bove Pierluigi , Mauriello Alessandro , Novelli Giuseppe , Piacentini Mauro , Rovella Valentina , Scimeca Manuel , Sica Giuseppe , Sun Qiang , Tisone Giuseppe , Shi Yufang , Candi Eleonora , Melino Gerry , Bernassola Francesca
Published: October 2023

Epithelial tissue homeostasis is closely associated with the self-renewal and differentiation behaviors of epithelial stem cells (ESCs). p63, a well-known marker of ESCs, is an indispensable factor for their biological activities during epithelial development. The diversity of p63 isoforms expressed in distinct tissues allows this transcription factor to have a wide array of effects. p63 coordinates the transcription of genes involved in cell survival, stem cell self-renewal, migration, differentiation, and epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition. Through the regulation of these biological processes, p63 contributes to, not only normal epithelial development, but also epithelium-derived cancer pathogenesis. In this review, we provide an overview of the role of p63 in epithelial stemness regulation, including self-renewal, differentiation, proliferation, and senescence. We describe the differential expression of TAp63 and ΔNp63 isoforms and their distinct functional activities in normal epithelial tissues and in epithelium-derived tumors. Furthermore, we summarize the signaling cascades modulating the TAp63 and ΔNp63 isoforms as well as their downstream pathways in stemness regulation.
Predictors of outcomes in hematopoietic cell transplantation for Fanconi anemia
Authors: Cancio Maria , Troullioud Lucas Alexandre G. , Bierings Marc , Klein Elizabeth , de Witte Moniek A. , Smiers Frans J. , Bresters Dorine , Boelens Jaap Jan , Smetsers Stephanie E.
Published: October 2023

Allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) remains the only cure for the hematologic manifestations of Fanconi anemia (FA). We performed retrospective predictor analyses for HCT outcomes in FA for pediatric and young adult patients transplanted between 2007 and 2020 across three large referral institutions. Eighty-nine patients, 70 with bone marrow failure +/− cytogenetic abnormalities, 19 with MDS/AML, were included. Five-year overall survival (OS) was 83.2% and event-free survival (EFS) was 74%. Age ≥19, HLA mismatch and year of HCT were multivariable predictors (MVPs) for OS, EFS and treatment-related mortality (TRM). In the pediatric group, TCD was a borderline MVP (P = 0.059) with 5-year OS of 73.0% in TCD vs. 100% for T-replete HCT. The cumulative incidence of day 100 grade II-IV aGvHD and 5-year cGvHD were 5.6% and 4.6%, respectively. Relapse in the MDS/AML subgroup occurred in 4 patients (16%). Graft failure was seen in 9 patients (TCD 6/37 [16%]; T-replete 3/52 [5.7%]). Six patients developed malignancy after HCT. Survival chances after HCT for FA are excellent and associated with high engrafted survival and low toxicity. Age ≥19, HLA mismatch, year of transplant and ‘TCD in the <19 years group’ (although borderline) were found to be negative predictors for survival.
Specific measures for data-intensive health research without consent: a systematic review of soft law instruments and academic literature
Authors: Smit Julie-Anne R. , Mostert Menno , van der Graaf Rieke , Grobbee Diederick E. , van Delden Johannes J. M.
Published: October 2023

It is a common misunderstanding of current European data protection law that when consent is not being used as lawful basis, the processing of personal data is prohibited. Article 9(2)(j) of the European General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) permits Member States to establish a legal basis in national law that allows for the processing of personal data for scientific research purposes without consent. However, the European legislator has formulated this “research exemption” as an opening clause, rendering the GDPR not specific as to what measures exactly are required to comply with the research exemption. This may have significant implications for both the protection of personal data and the advancement of data-intensive health research. We performed a systematic review of relevant soft law instruments and academic literature to identify what measures are mentioned in those documents. Our analysis resulted in the identification of four overarching themes of suggested measures: organizational measures; technical measures; oversight and review mechanisms; and public engagement and participation. Some of the suggested measures do not substantially contribute to the clarification of the GDPR’s “suitable and specific measures” requirement because they remain vague or broad in nature and encompass all types of data processing. However, the themes oversight and review mechanisms and public engagement and participation provide valuable insights which can be put to practice. Nevertheless, further clarification of the measures and safeguards that should be installed when invoking the research exemption remains necessary.
Jupiter-like planets might be common in a low-density environment
Authors: Gratton Raffaele , Mesa Dino , Bonavita Mariangela , Zurlo Alice , Marino Sebastian , Kervella Pierre , Desidera Silvano , D’Orazi Valentina , Rigliaco Elisabetta
Published: October 2023

Radial velocity surveys suggest that the Solar System may be unusual and that Jupiter-like planets have a frequency < 20% around solar-type stars. However, they may be much more common in one of the closest associations in the solar neighbourhood. Young moving stellar groups are the best targets for direct imaging of exoplanets and four massive Jupiter-like planets have been already discovered in the nearby young β Pic Moving Group (BPMG) via high-contrast imaging, and four others were suggested via high precision astrometry by the European Space Agency’s Gaia satellite. Here we analyze 30 stars in BPMG and show that 20 of them might potentially host a Jupiter-like planet as their orbits would be stable. Considering incompleteness in observations, our results suggest that Jupiter-like planets may be more common than previously found. The next Gaia data release will likely confirm our prediction.
The admixed brushtail possum genome reveals invasion history in New Zealand and novel imprinted genes
Authors: Bond Donna M. , Ortega-Recalde Oscar , Laird Melanie K. , Hayakawa Takashi , Richardson Kyle S. , Reese Finlay.C. B. , Kyle Bruce , McIsaac-Williams Brooke E. , Robertson Bruce C. , van Heezik Yolanda , Adams Amy L. , Chang Wei-Shan , Haase Bettina , Mountcastle Jacquelyn , Driller Maximilian , Collins Joanna , Howe Kerstin , Go Yasuhiro , Thibaud-Nissen Francoise , Lister Nicholas C. , Waters Paul D. , Fedrigo Olivier , Jarvis Erich D. , Gemmell Neil J. , Alexander Alana , Hore Timothy A.
Published: October 2023

Combining genome assembly with population and functional genomics can provide valuable insights to development and evolution, as well as tools for species management. Here, we present a chromosome-level genome assembly of the common brushtail possum (Trichosurus vulpecula), a model marsupial threatened in parts of their native range in Australia, but also a major introduced pest in New Zealand. Functional genomics reveals post-natal activation of chemosensory and metabolic genes, reflecting unique adaptations to altricial birth and delayed weaning, a hallmark of marsupial development. Nuclear and mitochondrial analyses trace New Zealand possums to distinct Australian subspecies, which have subsequently hybridised. This admixture allowed phasing of parental alleles genome-wide, ultimately revealing at least four genes with imprinted, parent-specific expression not yet detected in other species (MLH1, EPM2AIP1, UBP1 and GPX7). We find that reprogramming of possum germline imprints, and the wider epigenome, is similar to eutherian mammals except onset occurs after birth. Together, this work is useful for genetic-based control and conservation of possums, and contributes to understanding of the evolution of novel mammalian epigenetic traits.
Lorentz microscopy of optical fields
Authors: Gaida John H. , Lourenço-Martins Hugo , Yalunin Sergey V. , Feist Armin , Sivis Murat , Hohage Thorsten , García de Abajo F. Javier , Ropers Claus
Published: October 2023

In electron microscopy, detailed insights into nanoscale optical properties of materials are gained by spontaneous inelastic scattering leading to electron-energy loss and cathodoluminescence. Stimulated scattering in the presence of external sample excitation allows for mode- and polarization-selective photon-induced near-field electron microscopy (PINEM). This process imprints a spatial phase profile inherited from the optical fields onto the wave function of the probing electrons. Here, we introduce Lorentz-PINEM for the full-field, non-invasive imaging of complex optical near fields at high spatial resolution. We use energy-filtered defocus phase-contrast imaging and iterative phase retrieval to reconstruct the phase distribution of interfering surface-bound modes on a plasmonic nanotip. Our approach is universally applicable to retrieve the spatially varying phase of nanoscale fields and topological modes.
Molecular imprinting-based indirect fluorescence detection strategy implemented on paper chip for non-fluorescent microcystin
Authors: Li Bowei , Qi Ji , Liu Feng , Zhao Rongfang , Arabi Maryam , Ostovan Abbas , Song Jinming , Wang Xiaoyan , Zhang Zhiyang , Chen Lingxin
Published: October 2023

Fluorescence analysis is a fast and sensitive method, and has great potential application in trace detection of environmental toxins. However, many important environmental toxins are non-fluorescent substances, and it is still a challenge to construct a fluorescence detection method for non-fluorescent substances. Here, by means of charge transfer effect and smart molecular imprinting technology, we report a sensitive indirect fluorescent sensing mechanism (IFSM) and microcystin (MC-RR) is selected as a model target. A molecular imprinted thin film is immobilized on the surface of zinc ferrite nanoparticles (ZnFe2O4 NPs) by using arginine, a dummy fragment of MC-RR. By implementation of IFSM on the paper-based microfluidic chip, a versatile platform for the quantitative assay of MC-RR is developed at trace level (the limit of detection of 0.43 μg/L and time of 20 min) in real water samples without any pretreatment. Importantly, the proposed IFSM can be easily modified and extended for the wide variety of species which lack direct interaction with the fluorescent substrate. This work offers the potential possibility to meet the requirements for the on-site analysis and may explore potential applications of molecularly imprinted fluorescent sensors.
Deep-LASI: deep-learning assisted, single-molecule imaging analysis of multi-color DNA origami structures
Authors: Wanninger Simon , Asadiatouei Pooyeh , Bohlen Johann , Salem Clemens-Bässem , Tinnefeld Philip , Ploetz Evelyn , Lamb Don C.
Published: October 2023

Single-molecule experiments have changed the way we explore the physical world, yet data analysis remains time-consuming and prone to human bias. Here, we introduce Deep-LASI (Deep-Learning Assisted Single-molecule Imaging analysis), a software suite powered by deep neural networks to rapidly analyze single-, two- and three-color single-molecule data, especially from single-molecule Förster Resonance Energy Transfer (smFRET) experiments. Deep-LASI automatically sorts recorded traces, determines FRET correction factors and classifies the state transitions of dynamic traces all in ~20–100 ms per trajectory. We benchmarked Deep-LASI using ground truth simulations as well as experimental data analyzed manually by an expert user and compared the results with a conventional Hidden Markov Model analysis. We illustrate the capabilities of the technique using a highly tunable L-shaped DNA origami structure and use Deep-LASI to perform titrations, analyze protein conformational dynamics and demonstrate its versatility for analyzing both total internal reflection fluorescence microscopy and confocal smFRET data.
ALKBH5 controls the meiosis-coupled mRNA clearance in oocytes by removing the N 6-methyladenosine methylation
Authors: Bai Long , Xiang Yu , Tang Minyue , Liu Shuangying , Chen Qingqing , Chen Qichao , Zhang Min , Wan Shan , Sang Yimiao , Li Qingfang , Wang Sisi , Li Zhekun , Song Yang , Hu Xiaoling , Mao Luna , Feng Guofang , Cui Long , Ye Yinghui , Zhu Yimin
Published: October 2023

N6-methyladenosine (m6A) maintains maternal RNA stability in oocytes. One regulator of m6A, ALKBH5, reverses m6A deposition and is essential in RNA metabolism. However, the specific role of ALKBH5 in oocyte maturation remains elusive. Here, we show that Alkbh5 depletion causes a wide range of defects in oocyte meiosis and results in female infertility. Temporal profiling of the maternal transcriptomes revealed striking RNA accumulation in Alkbh5−/− oocytes during meiotic maturation. Analysis of m6A dynamics demonstrated that ALKBH5-mediated m6A demethylation ensures the timely degradation of maternal RNAs, which is severely disrupted following Alkbh5−/− depletion. A distinct subset of transcripts with persistent m6A peaks are recognized by the m6A reader IGF2BP2 and thus remain stabilized, resulting in impaired RNA clearance. Additionally, reducing IGF2BP2 in Alkbh5-depleted oocytes partially rescued these defects. Overall, this work identifies ALKBH5 as a key determinant of oocyte quality and unveil the facilitating role of ALKBH5-mediated m6A removal in maternal RNA decay.
Prediction of nonlayered oxide monolayers as flexible high-κ dielectrics with negative Poisson’s ratios
Authors: Hu Yue , Jiang Jingwen , Zhang Peng , Ma Zhuang , Guan Fuxin , Li Da , Qian Zhengfang , Zhang Xiuwen , Huang Pu
Published: October 2023

During the last two decades, two-dimensional (2D) materials have been the focus of condensed matter physics and material science due to their promising fundamental properties and (opto-)electronic applications. However, high-κ 2D dielectrics that can be integrated within 2D devices are often missing. Here, we propose nonlayered oxide monolayers with calculated exfoliation energy as low as 0.39 J/m2 stemming from the ionic feature of the metal oxide bonds. We predict 51 easily or potentially exfoliable oxide monolayers, including metals and insulators/semiconductors, with intriguing physical properties such as ultra-high κ values, negative Poisson’s ratios and large valley spin splitting. Among them, the most promising dielectric, GeO2, exhibits an auxetic effect, a κ value of 99, and forms type-I heterostructures with MoSe2 and HfSe2, with a band offset of ~1 eV. Our study opens the way for designing nonlayered 2D oxides, offering a platform for studying the rich physics in ultra-thin oxides and their potential applications in future information technologies.
Remote inspection of adversary-controlled environments
Authors: Tobisch Johannes , Philippe Sébastien , Barak Boaz , Kaplun Gal , Zenger Christian , Glaser Alexander , Paar Christof , Rührmair Ulrich
Published: October 2023

Remotely monitoring the location and enduring presence of valuable items in adversary-controlled environments presents significant challenges. In this article, we demonstrate a monitoring approach that leverages the gigahertz radio-wave scattering and absorption of a room and its contents, including a set of mirrors with random orientations placed inside, to remotely verify the absence of any disturbance over time. Our technique extends to large physical systems the application of physical unclonable functions for integrity protection. Its main applications are scenarios where parties are mutually distrustful and have privacy and security constraints. Examples range from the verification of nuclear arms-control treaties to the securing of currency, artwork, or data centers.
4D Optical fibers based on shape-memory polymers
Authors: Strutynski Clément , Evrard Marianne , Désévédavy Frédéric , Gadret Grégory , Jules Jean-Charles , Brachais Claire-Hélène , Kibler Bertrand , Smektala Frédéric
Published: October 2023

Adaptative objects based on shape-memory materials are expected to significantly impact numerous technological sectors including optics and photonics. In this work, we demonstrate the manufacturing of shape-memory optical fibers from the thermal stretching of additively manufactured preforms. First, we show how standard commercially-available thermoplastics can be used to produce long continuously-structured microfilaments with shape-memory abilities. Shape recovery as well as programmability performances of such elongated objects are assessed. Next, we open the way for light-guiding multicomponent fiber architectures that are able to switch from temporary configurations back to user-defined programmed shapes. In particular, we show that distinct designs of fabricated optical fibers can maintain efficient light transmission upon completion of multiple temperature-triggered bending/straightening cycles. Such fibers are also programmed into more complex shapes including coils or near 180 ° curvatures for delivering laser light around obstacles. Finally, a shape-memory exposed-core fiber is employed in fiber evanescent wave spectroscopy experiments to optimize the performance of the sensing scheme. We strongly expect that such actuatable fibers with light-guiding abilities will trigger exciting progress of unprecedented smart devices in the areas of photonics, electronics, or robotics.
Enhanced peripheral nerve regeneration by mechano-electrical stimulation
Authors: Tai Youyi , Tonmoy Thamidul Islam , Win Shwe , Brinkley Natasha T. , Park B. Hyle , Nam Jin
Published: October 2023

To address limitations in current approaches for treating large peripheral nerve defects, the presented study evaluated the feasibility of functional material-mediated physical stimuli on peripheral nerve regeneration. Electrospun piezoelectric poly(vinylidene fluoride-trifluoroethylene) nanofibers were utilized to deliver mechanical actuation-activated electrical stimulation to nerve cells/tissues in a non-invasive manner. Using morphologically and piezoelectrically optimized nanofibers for neurite extension and Schwann cell maturation based on in vitro experiments, piezoelectric nerve conduits were synthesized and implanted in a rat sciatic nerve transection model to bridge a critical-sized sciatic nerve defect (15 mm). A therapeutic shockwave system was utilized to periodically activate the piezoelectric effect of the implanted nerve conduit on demand. The piezoelectric nerve conduit-mediated mechano-electrical stimulation (MES) induced enhanced peripheral nerve regeneration, resulting in full axon reconnection with myelin regeneration from the proximal to the distal ends over the critical-sized nerve gap. In comparison, a control group, in which the implanted piezoelectric conduits were not activated in vivo, failed to exhibit such nerve regeneration. In addition, at both proximal and distal ends of the implanted conduits, a decreased number of damaged myelination (ovoids), an increased number of myelinated nerves, and a larger axonal diameter were observed under the MES condition as compared to the control condition. Furthermore, unlike the control group, the MES condition exhibited a superior functional nerve recovery, assessed by walking track analysis and polarization-sensitive optical coherence tomography, demonstrating the significant potential of the piezoelectric conduit-based physical stimulation approach for the treatment of peripheral nerve injury.
Efficacy of standard operating procedures for fall protection in hospitalized patients with schizophrenia
Authors: Li Hui , Liu Caixing , Ge Zengyun , Mu Xishu , Wang Xuan , Xiu Meihong , Wang Xinfu , Li Zezhi
Published: October 2023

Fall-related injury is the most common cause of functional disability and mortality in the older population. Falls in patients with schizophrenia are one of the major concerns in psychiatric hospitals. This study aimed to examine the impact of standardized operating procedures (SOP) on falls in veterans with schizophrenia. Veterans with schizophrenia were allocated to the control group (n = 345) and to the fall protection standardized operating procedures (FP-SOP) group (n = 342). Patients in the control group were given routine nursing for falls, and patients in the FP-SOP group were intervened with FP-SOP plus routine nursing. All patients were observed for one year. The study methods comply with the Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (STROBE) checklist. We found a fall rate of 1.5% in the FP-SOP group and 4.6% in the control group, with a significant difference in the fall rate between the two groups. In addition, the difference in patient satisfaction between the two groups was statistically significant. Our findings suggest that FP-SOP is an effective strategy for fall prevention in psychiatric hospitals.
Inertial measurement data from loose clothing worn on the lower body during everyday activities
Authors: Jayasinghe Udeni , Hwang Faustina , Harwin William S.
Published: October 2023

Embedding sensors into clothing is promising as a way for people to wear multiple sensors easily, for applications such as long-term activity monitoring. To our knowledge, this is the first published dataset collected from sensors in loose clothing. 6 Inertial Measurement Units (IMUs) were configured as a ‘sensor string’ and attached to casual trousers such that there were three sensors on each leg near the waist, thigh, and ankle/lower-shank. Participants also wore an Actigraph accelerometer on their dominant wrist. The dataset consists of 15 participant-days worth of data collected from 5 healthy adults (age range: 28–48 years, 3 males and 2 females). Each participant wore the clothes with sensors for between 1 and 4 days for 5–8 hours per day. Each day, data were collected while participants completed a fixed circuit of activities (with a video ground truth) as well as during free day-to-day activities (with a diary). This dataset can be used to analyse human movements, transitional movements, and postural changes based on a range of features.
A high spatial resolution dataset for methylmercury exposure in Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area
Authors: Zhang Xiaoxin , Zhong Qiumeng , Chang Weicen , Li Hui , Liang Sai
Published: October 2023

Dietary methylmercury (MeHg) exposure increases the risk of many human diseases. The Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) is the world’s most populous bay area and people there might suffer a high risk of dietary MeHg exposure. However, there lacks a time-series high spatial resolution dataset for dietary MeHg exposure in the GBA. This study constructs a high spatial resolution (1 km × 1 km) dataset for dietary MeHg exposure in the GBA during 2009–2019. It first constructs the dietary MeHg exposure inventory for each county/district of the GBA, based on MeHg concentrations of foods (i.e., rice and fish in this study) and per capita rice and fish intake. Subsequently, this study spatializes the dietary MeHg exposure inventory at 1 km × 1 km scale, using gridded data for food consumption expenditure as the proxy. This dataset can describe the spatially explicit hotspots, distribution patterns, and variation trend of dietary MeHg exposure in the GBA. This dataset can support spatially explicit evaluation of MeHg-related health risks in the GBA.
Metagenome sequencing and recovery of 444 metagenome-assembled genomes from the biofloc aquaculture system
Authors: Rajeev Meora , Jung Ilsuk , Lim Yeonjung , Kim Suhyun , Kang Ilnam , Cho Jang-Cheon
Published: October 2023

Biofloc technology is increasingly recognised as a sustainable aquaculture method. In this technique, bioflocs are generated as microbial aggregates that play pivotal roles in assimilating toxic nitrogenous substances, thereby ensuring high water quality. Despite the crucial roles of the floc-associated bacterial (FAB) community in pathogen control and animal health, earlier microbiota studies have primarily relied on the metataxonomic approaches. Here, we employed shotgun sequencing on eight biofloc metagenomes from a commercial aquaculture system. This resulted in the generation of 106.6 Gbp, and the reconstruction of 444 metagenome-assembled genomes (MAGs). Among the recovered MAGs, 230 were high-quality (≥90% completeness, ≤5% contamination), and 214 were medium-quality (≥50% completeness, ≤10% contamination). Phylogenetic analysis unveiled Rhodobacteraceae as dominant members of the FAB community. The reported metagenomes and MAGs are crucial for elucidating the roles of diverse microorganisms and their functional genes in key processes such as nitrification, denitrification, and remineralization. This study will contribute to scientific understanding of phylogenetic diversity and metabolic capabilities of microbial taxa in aquaculture environments.
An effective AI model for automatically detecting arteriovenous fistula stenosis
Authors: Song Wheyming Tina , Chen Chang Chiang , Yu Zi-Wei , Huang Hao-Chuan
Published: October 2023

In this study, a novel artificial intelligence (AI) model is proposed to detect stenosis in arteriovenous fistulas (AVFs) using inexpensive and non-invasive audio recordings. The proposed model is a combination of two new input features based on short-time Fourier transform (STFT) and sample entropy, as well as two associated classification models (ResNet50 and ANN). The model’s hyper-parameters were optimized through the use of the design of the experiment (DOE). The proposed AI model demonstrates high performance with all essential metrics, including sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, precision, and F1-score, exceeding 0.90 at detecting stenosis greater than 50%. These promising results suggest that our approach can lead to new insights and knowledge in this field. Moreover, the robust performance of our model, combined with the affordability of the audio recording device, makes it a valuable tool for detecting AVF stenosis in home-care settings.
Morphological and genetic variability in cosmopolitan tardigrade species—Paramacrobiotus fairbanksi Schill, Förster, Dandekar & Wolf, 2010
Authors: Kayastha Pushpalata , Szydło Wiktoria , Mioduchowska Monika , Kaczmarek Łukasz
Published: October 2023

Paramacrobiotus fairbanksi was described from Alaska (USA) based on integrative taxonomy and later reported from various geographical localities making it a true cosmopolitan species. The ‘Everything is Everywhere’ (EiE) hypothesis assumes that the geographic distribution of microscopic organisms is not limited by dispersal but by local environmental conditions, making them potentially cosmopolitan. In the present work we report four new populations of P. fairbanksi from the Northern Hemisphere which suggests that the ‘EiE’ hypothesis is true, at least for some tardigrade species. We also compared all known populations of P. fairbanksi at the genetic and morphological levels. The p-distances between COI haplotypes of all sequenced P. fairbanksi populations from Albania, Antarctica, Canada, Italy, Madeira, Mongolia, Spain, USA and Poland ranged from 0.002 to 0.005%. In total, twelve haplotypes (H1-H12) of COI gene fragments were identified. We also report statistically significant morphometrical differences of species even though they were cultured and bred in the same laboratory conditions. Furthermore, we also discuss differences in the potential distribution of two Paramacrobiotus species.
Cancer-associated fibroblasts in early-stage lung adenocarcinoma correlate with tumor aggressiveness
Authors: Vasiukov Georgii , Zou Yong , Senosain Maria-Fernanda , Rahman Jamshedur S. M. , Antic Sanja , Young Katherine M. , Grogan Eric L. , Kammer Michael N. , Maldonado Fabien , Reinhart-King Cynthia A. , Massion Pierre P.
Published: October 2023

Lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) is the predominant type of lung cancer in the U.S. and exhibits a broad variety of behaviors ranging from indolent to aggressive. Identification of the biological determinants of LUAD behavior at early stages can improve existing diagnostic and treatment strategies. Extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling and cancer-associated fibroblasts play a crucial role in the regulation of cancer aggressiveness and there is a growing need to investigate their role in the determination of LUAD behavior at early stages. We analyzed tissue samples isolated from patients with LUAD at early stages and used imaging-based biomarkers to predict LUAD behavior. Single-cell RNA sequencing and histological assessment showed that aggressive LUADs are characterized by a decreased number of ADH1B+CAFs in comparison to indolent tumors. ADH1B+CAF enrichment is associated with distinct ECM and immune cell signatures in early-stage LUADs. Also, we found a positive correlation between the gene expression of ADH1B+CAF markers in early-stage LUADs and better survival. We performed TCGA dataset analysis to validate our findings. Identified associations can be used for the development of the predictive model of LUAD aggressiveness and novel therapeutic approaches.
Performance comparison of different medical image fusion algorithms for clinical glioma grade classification with advanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
Authors: Khorasani Amir , Dadashi serej Nasim , jalilian Milad , Shayganfar Azin , Tavakoli Mohamad Bagher
Published: October 2023

Non-invasive glioma grade classification is an exciting area in neuroimaging. The primary purpose of this study is to investigate the performance of different medical image fusion algorithms for glioma grading purposes by fusing advanced Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) images. Ninety-six subjects underwent an Apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) map and Susceptibility-weighted imaging (SWI) MRI scan. After preprocessing, the different medical image fusion methods used to fuse ADC maps and SWI were Principal Component Analysis (PCA), Structure-Aware, Discrete Cosine Harmonic Wavelet Transform (DCHWT), Deep-Convolutional Neural network (DNN), Dual-Discriminator conditional generative adversarial network (DDcGAN), and Laplacian Re-Decomposition (LRD). The Entropy, standard deviation (STD), peak signal-to-noise ratio (PSNR), structural similarity index measure (SSIM), and Relative Signal Contrast (RSC) were calculated for qualitative and quantitative analysis. We found high fused image quality with LRD and DDcGAN methods. Further quantitative analysis showed that RSCs in fused images in Low-Grade glioma (LGG) were significantly higher than RSCs in High-Grade glioma (HGG) with PCA, DCHWT, LRD, and DDcGAN. The Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve test highlighted that LRD and DDcGAN have the highest performance for glioma grade classification. Our work suggests using the DDcGAN and LRD networks for glioma grade classification by fusing ADC maps and SWI images.
Building a healthy lifestyle: the role of emotional intelligence among Italian university students
Authors: Licata Francesca , Maruca Riccardo , Citrino Emma Antonia , Bianco Aida
Published: October 2023

Given the numerous evidence demonstrating the influence of emotions in engaging risky behaviors, it seems inevitable to consider new approaches that promote healthy lifestyles. This study examines the relationship between emotional intelligence (EI) and unhealthy lifestyles among undergraduate university students in Southern Italy, since a correlation between EI and harmful health behaviors has been postulated. The present cross-sectional study was conducted among over 18-year-old university students using an online, anonymous, self-administered questionnaire. Socio-demographic characteristics, tobacco use, nicotine dependence, alcohol consumption, and skipping breakfast were investigated. Nearly a third of the sample were current smokers (30.9%). Problematic drinking was shown in 9.9% of the students. Almost one-fourth (23.1%) reported breakfast skipping ≥ 3 days a week. Emotional clarity and total EI scores were significantly lower in current smokers with moderate/high nicotine dependence. Problematic drinking revealed lower emotional clarity and total EI scores. Breakfast skippers showed lower emotional attention and total EI scores. The interconnectedness of unhealthy behaviors and the potential for one behavior to lead to or predict another were  also shown. The study findings provide useful insights to develop evidence-based strategies to empower the young adults to choose a health-promoting lifestyle. The figures suggest that emotional learning interventions could support this goal.
A nationwide study on the prevalence and contributing factors of obstructive sleep apnea in Iran
Authors: Sadeghniiat-Haghighi Khosro , Akbarpour Samaneh , Behkar Atefeh , Moradzadeh Rahmatollah , Alemohammad Zahra Banafsheh , Forouzan Nazanin , Mouseli Ali , Amirifard Hamed , Najafi Arezu
Published: October 2023

Reliable obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) prevalence information in Iran is lacking due to inconsistent local study results. To estimate OSA prevalence and identify clinical phenotypes, we conducted a nationally representative study using multi-stage random cluster sampling. We recruited 3198 individuals and extrapolated the results to the entire Iranian population using complex sample survey analyses. We identified 3 clinical phenotypes as “sleepy,” “insomnia,” and “restless legs syndrome (RLS).” The prevalence of OSA was 28.7% (95%CI: 26.8–30.6). The prevalence of “sleepy,” “insomnia,” and “RLS” phenotypes were 82.3%, 77.8%, and 36.5% in women, and 64.8%, 67.5%, and 17.9% in men, respectively. “Sleepy” and “insomnia” phenotypes overlapped the most. Age (OR: 1.9), male sex (OR: 3.8), BMI (OR: 1.13), neck circumference (OR: 1.3), RLS (OR: 2.0), and insomnia (OR: 2.3) were significant OSA predictors (p-values: 0.001). In men, “sleepy” phenotype was associated with youth and unmarried status but not in women. The “insomnia” phenotype was associated with shorter sleep duration in women; cardiovascular diseases (CVD), urban residency, and shorter sleep duration in men. “RLS” phenotype was associated with shorter sleep duration and CVD in women and older age, lower educational level, CVD, and hypertension in men. The findings point to the need for funding of OSA screening in Iran, for a different assessment of men and women, and for future sleep research to consider overlapping phenotypes.
Acute effects of angler’s groundbaits: nutrient flux to water column
Authors: Fazekas Dorottya Lilla , Antal László , Halasi-Kovács Béla , Kwiatkowski Maciej , Tóth Flórián , Specziár András , Mozsár Attila
Published: October 2023

Although ground-baiting related nutrient loading has been widely studied, we do not know what proportion of these nutrients release into the water column, affecting primary production directly. We conducted short-term (24-h, 5-day) experiments at wide temperature range, in presence and absence of fish using fish meal-based (FM-GB) and plant-based groundbait (PB-GB), to assess the nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) fluxes from GB into the water column. Nitrogen release from unconsumed FM-GB was negligible in the first 3 days, then increased abruptly, releasing 32% of its total N content by the fifth day. In contrast, PB-GB acted as temporary sink for inorganic N forms. Considerable (18–21%) inorganic P release was observed in both GB types in the first twelve hours. Consumed GBs induced considerable inorganic N release and its rate increased with temperature. Particulate forms predominated the released N in PB-GB, suggesting impaired digestion. Phosphorus—dominated by particulate forms—release was similar or lower than in unconsumed GB. Based on our results, excessive use of GB—when high amount of it remains unconsumed—can enhance eutrophication in P-limited ecosystems. Although less digestible GBs may have less abrupt effect on the primary production, undigested nutrients remain unavailable for removal through fish harvest.
X-rays are as effective as gamma-rays for the sterilization of Glossina palpalis gambiensis Vanderplank, 1911 (Diptera: Glossinidae) for use in the sterile insect technique
Authors: Kaboré Bénéwendé Aristide , Nawaj Arooj , Maiga Hamidou , Soukia Olga , Pagabeleguem Soumaïla , Ouédraogo/Sanon Marie Sophie Gisèle , Vreysen Marc J. B. , Mach Robert L. , de Beer Chantel J.
Published: October 2023

An area-wide integrated pest management strategy with a sterile insect technique (SIT) component requires a radiation source for the sterilisation of male insects. Self-contained gamma irradiators, which were exclusively used in past SIT programmes, are now facing increasing constraints and challenges due to stringent regulations. As a potential alternative, new generation high output X-ray irradiators have been proposed. The feasibility of using X-ray irradiators was assessed by comparing the effects of both gamma- and X-ray irradiators on biological parameters of Glossina palpalis gambiensis (Vanderplank, 1911), that are important for SIT applications. The gamma irradiator Foss Model 812 and two X-ray irradiators, the Rad Source 2400 and the blood irradiator Raycell Mk2 were used. Glossina palpalis gambiensis males were exposed to radiation as pupae. A radiation dose of 110 Gy or above induced more than 97% sterility in females that mated with the irradiated males for all the irradiators. Adult emergence rate, flight propensity, survival and mating performance did not differ between gamma- and X-rays irradiators. These results suggest that irradiating pupae with a dose of 110 Gy is optimal for both gamma-and X-ray irradiators used in this study, to achieve a sterility of approximately 99%. Similar research on other tsetse species could gradually phase out the use of gamma-ray irradiators in favour of X-rays irradiators, especially for smaller SIT programmes.
Age, quality of life and mental well-being in adolescent population: a network model tree analysis
Authors: Cilar Budler Leona , Stiglic Gregor
Published: October 2023

This study presents the results of a network-based analysis of health related quality of life (HRQoL) among Slovenian adolescents. The study aimed to examine the relationship between HRQoL and mental well-being among adolescents of different age and gender groups. A cross-sectional study was conducted from November 2019 to January 2020 in 16 primary and 9 secondary schools in Slovenia. The KIDSCREEN-27 scale was used to collect the data on HRQoL, and the Warwick–Edinburgh Mental Well-being Scale to collect data on mental well-being. We used network model trees to demonstrate differences in psychometric network structure measuring correlations between different concepts in adolescent HRQoL. A total of 2972 students aged 10–19 years participated in the study. The significant split in the network tree (p < 0.001) indicated differences in relations between HRQoL subscale scores and mental well-being score among adolescents younger than 12 years old. In comparison to older adolescents the correlation between mental well-being and mood scores was significantly weaker in this group of the youngest participants (p < 0.001). A network model tree analysis also uncovered an interesting pattern based on gender and age (p < 0.013) where a correlation between mood and family support became weaker for female at the age of 12 and for male at the age of 16. Data mining techniques have recently been used by healthcare researchers and professionals. Network-based analysis is an innovative alternative to classical approaches in HRQoL research. In this study we demonstrate the significant differences in the perceptions of HRQoL and mental well-being among adolescents in different age and gender groups that were discovered using tree-based network analysis.
Machine learning in optimization of nonwoven fabric bending rigidity in spunlace production line
Authors: Sadeghi Mohammad Reza , Hosseini Varkiyani Seyed Mohammad , Asgharian Jeddi Ali Asghar
Published: October 2023

Spunlace nonwoven fabrics have been extensively employed in different applications such as medical, hygienic, and industrial due to their drapeability, soft handle, low cost, and uniform appearance. To manufacture a spunlace nonwoven fabric with desirable properties, production parameters play an important role. Moreover, the relationship between the primary response and input parameter and the relationship between the secondary response and primary responses of spunlace nonwoven fabric were modeled via an artificial neural network (ANN). Furthermore, a multi-objective optimization via genetic algorithm (GA) to find a combination of production parameters to fabricate a sample with the highest bending rigidity and lowest basis weight was carried out. The results of optimization showed that the cost value of the best sample is 0.373. The optimized set of production factors were Young’s modulus of fiber of 0.4195 GPa, the line speed of 53.91 m/min, the average pressure of water jet 42.43 bar, and the feed rate of 219.67 kg/h, which resulted in bending rigidity of 1.43 mN $${\mathrm{cm}}^{2}$$

cm

2

/cm and basis weight of 37.5 gsm. In terms of advancing the textile industry, it is hoped that this work provides insight into engineering the final properties of spunlace nonwoven fabric via the implementation of machine learning.