bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Excretion of excess nitrogen and increased survival by loss of SLC6A19 in a mouse model of ornithine transcarbamylase deficiency
Authors: Belanger Adam J. , Gefteas Estelle , Przybylska Malgorzata , Geller Sarah , Anarat‐Cappillino Gülbenk , Kloss Alla , Yew Nelson S.
Published: October 2022

Protein catabolism ultimately yields toxic ammonia, which must be converted to urea by the liver for renal excretion. In extrahepatic tissues, ammonia is temporarily converted primarily to glutamine for subsequent hepatic extraction. Urea cycle disorders (UCDs) are inborn errors of metabolism causing impaired ureagenesis, leading to neurotoxic accumulation of ammonia and brain glutamine. Treatment includes dietary protein restriction and oral “ammonia scavengers.” These scavengers chemically combine with glutamine and glycine to yield excretable products, creating an alternate pathway of waste nitrogen disposal. The amino acid transporter SLC6A19 is responsible for >95% of absorption and reabsorption of free neutral amino acids in the small intestine and kidney, respectively. Genetic SLC6A19 deficiency causes massive neutral aminoaciduria but is typically benign. We hypothesized that inhibiting SLC6A19 would open a novel and effective alternate pathway of waste nitrogen disposal. To test this, we crossed SLC6A19 knockout (KO) mice with spfash mice, a model of ornithine transcarbamylase (OTC) deficiency. Loss of SLC6A19 in spfash mice normalized plasma ammonia and brain glutamine and increased median survival in response to a high protein diet from 7 to 97 days. While induced excretion of amino acid nitrogen is likely the primary therapeutic mechanism, reduced intestinal absorption of dietary free amino acids, and decreased muscle protein turnover due to loss of SLC6A19 may also play a role. In summary, the results suggest that SLC6A19 inhibition represents a promising approach to treating UCDs and related aminoacidopathies.
Canine morphometrics as a tool for distinguishing species, sex, and age class in Southern Ocean fur seals
Authors: Pretorius Liezl E. , Bester Marthán N. , Connan Maëlle , Hofmeyr G. J. Greg
Published: October 2022

Carcasses resulting from natural mortalities are invaluable for use in scientific studies, provided species, sex, and age class are known. When such data are unavailable, identifying skeletal remains is necessary if one is to use the information contained within samples. Teeth are amongst the best preserved skeletal remains owing to the durability of enamel and dentine. Here, we tested whether external measurements of canines could be used to distinguish two partially sympatric species of Southern Ocean fur seals, the AntarcticArctocephalus gazellaand Sub‐AntarcticA. tropicalisfur seals. We also investigated whether the external measurements of canines could be used to determine the age, sex, as well as island of origin of the animals. Eight morphological variables (crown length, root length, crown width, root width, crown thickness, root thickness, total canine length, and count of external surface annular ridges) were recorded from canines of 340 individuals of known species, sex, and island of origin. The count of external annular ridges provided a good estimate of age, which was confirmed by counting the growth layer groups of sectioned teeth, especially for older animals (> 9 years old). External canine measurements proved useful in distinguishing species, as well as sex within and between species, particularly in adult animals. Species were more difficult to distinguish in females than in males. The islands of origin could only be inferred in male Antarctic fur seals. This study indicates that fur seal teeth of unknown provenance, found either in breeding colonies or as vagrants, provide evidence on species, sex, and age of the animal, which increases the value of associated samples. It further highlights the importance of external measurements of skeletal remains such as canine teeth in separating closely related species.
When apologizing hurts: Felt transgression and restoration efforts
Authors: Li Shike , Radivojevic Ivana , Jain Kriti , Conrad Carlina
Published: October 2022

Apologizing is important for conflict resolution and relationship reconciliation, yet apologies often fail to restore the damaged relationship. While much research has been devoted to investigating the victims' reactions upon receiving an apology, in this paper, we adopt an apologizer‐centric approach and explore the phenomenon of apologizing with no felt transgression (vis‐à‐vis when there is felt transgression) along with its affective and reconciliation outcomes for the apologizer. Based on Appraisal Tendency Framework, we predict that apologizing with no felt transgression will lead to reduced guilt and increased anger in the apologizer, which will result in a decreased level of their restoration efforts towards the victim. In addition, we further hypothesize about the role of organizational conflict cultures in influencing the relationship between apologizing and restoration efforts via guilt and anger. Study 1 uses a micro‐narrative procedure and an inductive data analysis approach to demonstrate the varied situations and motivations of employees apologizing with (no) felt transgression, Study 2 utilizes an experimental design to examine the mediation effect, and Study 3 employs the critical incident technique to test our whole research model. Our hypotheses were largely supported across our studies. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed.
Quantification of femoral position on radiographic acetabular coverage in children
Authors: Sha Jia , Yan Ya‐Bo , Xu Hui‐Fa , Li Chao , Dong Hui , Liu Zhi‐Chen , Fan Zong‐Zhi , Huang Lu‐Yu
Published: October 2022

An accurate assessment of the radiographic acetabular coverage is essential for clinical diagnosis or surgical decision‐making in hip disorders. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of femoral position on acetabular coverage and to predict the actual acetabular coverage from nonstandard radiographs. A total of 21 children (34 hips) with normative acetabular coverage were screened in this retrospective study. The Mimics‐based local‐rotation fluoroscopy simulation method was used to tilt, incline, and rotate the femur in 4° increments within the range of femoral motion. The acetabular coverage, namely acetabular‐head index (AHI) and center‐edge angle (CEA), increased with femoral abduction but decreased with other motions. Compared to the femoral neutral position, no significant differences were identified in AHI with the rotation (range: 0°–16°) and in CEA with the tilt (range: −20°–4°), inclination (range: 0°–4°), or rotation (range: −8°–40°). The linear regression analysis showed that the CEA increased by about 0.20° for each 1° increase in femoral inclination and decreased by about 0.01°, 0.07°, 0.06°, or 0.07° for each 1° increase in internal rotation, external rotation, flexion, or extension, respectively. And a more significant change in AHI was observed. All femoral malpositions, especially the inclination, affected radiographic acetabular coverage in children. Therefore, each pelvic radiograph should assess potential femoral malpositioning before diagnosing hip disorders. This study will assist surgeons in predicting the acetabular coverage on nonstandard radiographs.
Reliable estimation of wavenumbers for peaks of benzonitrile and cyclohexane
Authors: Itoh Nobuyasu
Published: October 2022

One of the most important parameters in Raman spectroscopy is the wavenumber (Raman shift), which is calculated from the difference between the excitation and Raman scattering absolute wavenumbers. Because the observed wavenumbers are strongly dependent on the spectrometer and measurement conditions, it is essential to calibrate the system by using a well‐characterised material. We therefore reliably estimated the wavenumbers and evaluated their uncertainty for the peaks of benzonitrile and cyclohexane by using a HeNe laser and Raman‐scattered light calibrated with Ne/Ar emission lines. We considered the uncertainties originating from the fitting and repeatability of both the Ne/Ar emission lines and the Rayleigh/Raman‐scattered lights, as well as the unstabilised HeNe laser, and the pixel and spectral resolutions. We also considered the uncertainty originating from the differences in results among the grades and manufacturers (four for benzonitrile and seven for cyclohexane). The estimated wavenumbers of 12 peaks for benzonitrile and 11 peaks for cyclohexane were comparable with those described in ASTM E1840 with an expanded uncertainty from 1.3 to 1.6 cm−1 (k = 2, coverage factor). It was also confirmed that the wavenumbers at 10°C and 35°C were within the expanded uncertainty; thus, these values should be widely useful for the calibration of Raman systems.
Effect of co‐treatment of microwave and exogenous l‐phenylalanine on the enrichment of flavonoids in Tartary buckwheat sprouts
Authors: Peng Wenping , Wang Nan , Wang Shunmin , Wang Junzhen , Bian Zixiu
Published: October 2022

BACKGROUND

Tartary buckwheat is rich in flavonoids. The application of physical processing technology and exogenous materials treatment can effectively promote grain germination and the accumulation of bioactive secondary metabolites. The content of four flavonoids, the activities of key enzymes (phenylalanine ammonia‐lyase (PAL), chalcone isomerase (CHI), flavonol synthase (FLS)) and the expression of key enzyme genes (FtPAL, FtCHI, FtFLS1, FtFLS2) in Tartary buckwheat sprouts treated with microwave and l‐phenylalanine (l‐Phe) were investigated, and the relationship between them was analyzed to explore the mechanism of promoting flavonoid accumulation, and to provide a theoretical basis for the development of functional Tartary buckwheat sprout food.

RESULTS

Germination can promote the synthesis of flavonoids. The contents of chlorogenic acid and rutin in 7‐day sprouts increased by 13 420.63% and 225.12% compared with seeds, respectively. Under the best treatment condition T3 (microwave 250 W, 90 s, 2.9 mmol L−1 L‐Phe), the specific activities of PAL, CHI and FLS in 5‐day‐old sprouts increased by 47.84%, 53.04% and 28.02% compared with control check (CK), respectively; and the expression of FtPAL, FtCHI and FtFlS1 increased by 39.84%, 24.78% and 33.72% compared with CK, respectively. Correlation analysis showed that the content of flavonoids in Tartary buckwheat sprouts was significantly positively correlated with the specific activities of key enzymes (P < 0.01) and dynamically correlated with genes related to the synthesis of three enzymes.

CONCLUSION

It suggested that microwave and l‐Phe treatment may promote the synthesis of flavonoids by promoting the expression of key enzymes genes in phenylpropane metabolism and controlling the activity of key enzymes in phenylpropane metabolism. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
A theoretical kinetic study of the reactions of NH2 radicals with methanol and ethanol and their implications in kinetic modeling
Authors: Giri Binod Raj , Shrestha Krishna Prasad , Mai Tam V.‐T. , Mauss Fabian , Huynh Lam K.
Published: October 2022

Amino (NH2) radicals play a central role in the pyrolysis and oxidation of ammonia. Several reports in the literature highlight the importance of the reactions of NH2 radicals with fuel in NH3‐dual‐fuel combustion. Therefore, we investigated the reactions of NH2 radicals with methanol (CH3OH) and ethanol (C2H5OH) theoretically. We explored the various reaction pathways by exploiting CCSD(T)/cc‐pV(T, Q)Z//M06‐2X/aug‐cc‐pVTZ level of theory. The reaction proceeds via complex formation at the entrance and exit channels in an overall exothermic process. We used canonical transition state theory to obtain the high‐pressure limiting rate coefficients for various channels over the temperature range of 300–2000 K. We discerned the role of various channels in the potential energy surface (PES) of NH2 + CH3OH/C2H5OH reactions. For both reactions, the hydrogen abstraction pathway at the OH‐site of alcohols plays a minor role in the entire T‐range investigated. By including the title reactions into an extensive kinetic model, we demonstrated that the reaction of NH2 radicals with alcohols plays a paramount role in accurately predicting the low‐temperature oxidation kinetics of NH3‐alcohols dual fuel systems (e.g., shortening the ignition delay time). On the contrary, these reactions have negligible importance for high‐temperature oxidation kinetics of NH3‐alcohol blends (e.g., not affecting the laminar flame speed). In addition, we calculated the rate coefficients for NH2 + CH4 = CH3 + NH3 reaction that are in excellent agreement with the experimental data.
Impact of armed conflict on land use and land cover changes in global border areas
Authors: Zheng Fangyu , Xiao Chiwei , Feng Zhiming
Published: October 2022

National borderlands as the spatial carrier and forefront for exerting geopolinomical influence and implementing geopolinomical strategy, most have the same or similar eco‐geographical structure characteristics, such as land cover. However, there are different development trends in different national relationships (e.g., cooperation and conflict), and land use and land cover changes (LUCC), especially in apparent in border areas. In general, armed conflict in border areas is accompanied by severe, immediate and long‐lasting LUCC‐like forest loss. Here, by means of geospatial analysis, the Uppsala Conflict Data Program and Climate Change Initiative Land Cover dataset were used to investigate the linkages between the armed conflict and LUCC or the patterns and processes of LUCC before, during and after armed conflict around the globe in borderlands from 1992 to 2020. The main and key insights are: (1) nearly 50% of global armed conflict has occurred and re‐occurred in these borderlands since 1992, leading to about 16.5% of LUCC globally; (2) the impact of armed conflict on LUUC is hysteretic, based on the intensity of conflict, especially in borderlands; (3) the transfer rate of land use is high during the conflict and tends to be stable in the post‐conflict period; (4) the absolute amount of armed conflict damage to forest land is large, but the changes rate of impervious surfaces is far more than the former, nearly 18 times greater. These findings improve the understanding of the impact of armed conflict on LUCC, in border areas. This study could provide a proxy and benchmark for exploring the cause‐effect and impact‐response between geopolinomical relations and the borderlands LUCC.
Influence of Acid‐Doped Poly(ethylene imine) Interlayers on the Performance of Polymer:Nonfullerene Solar Cells
Authors: Lee Woongki , Lee Chulyeon , Kim Hwajeong , Kim Youngkyoo
Published: October 2022

This work reports that ultrathin polymeric films doped with organic acid molecules can act as an electron‐transporting interfacial layer in polymer:nonfullerene solar cells. The polymeric interfacial layers, which consist of poly(ethylene imine) (PEI) doped with 3‐hydroxypropane‐1‐sulfonic acid (HPSA) at various HPSA molar ratios, are introduced between transparent indium‐tin oxide (ITO) electrodes and polymer:nonfullerene bulk heterojunction layers. The HPSA‐doped PEI (PEI:HPSA) films are optically translucent in the wavelength range of ≈300–800 nm, while the acidity of PEI solutions reached ≈pH = 7 at HPSA = 30 mol%. The power conversion efficiency of solar cells is improved by doping 20 mol% HPSA due to the increased short circuit current density without open circuit voltage reduction. The improvement in solar cell performances is attributed to an adequate control of HPSA doping ratios, which spares undoped amine units of PEI for making sufficient net dipole layers with ITO surfaces and makes permanent charges for high electrical conductivity in the layers. The surface morphology and doped states are characterized with atomic force microscopy and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy.
PUS7 promotes the proliferation of colorectal cancer cells by directly stabilizing SIRT1 to activate the Wnt/β‐catenin pathway
Authors: Zhang Qi , Fei Sujuan , Zhao Yanchao , Liu Shengnan , Wu Xiaoting , Lu Lili , Chen Weichang
Published: October 2022

Pseudouridine synthase 7 (PUS7) may play key roles in cancer development. However, few studies have been conducted in this area. In the present study, we explored the function and potential mechanisms of PUS7 in colorectal cancer (CRC) progression. We found that PUS7 had higher expression in CRC tissues and cell lines. Clinically, high expression of PUS7 was associated with an unfavorable prognosis for CRC patients. Functionally, knockdown of PUS7 suppressed the proliferation of CRC cells in vitro and inhibited tumorigenicity in vivo. Mechanistically, RNA sequencing and coimmunoprecipitation (Co‐IP) indicated that PUS7 exhibited oncogenic functions through the interaction of Sirtuin 1 (SIRT1) and activated the Wnt/β‐catenin signaling pathway. Thus, our findings suggest that PUS7 promotes the proliferation of CRC cells by directly stabilizing SIRT1 to activate the Wnt/β‐catenin pathway.
Researching the crowd: Implications on philanthropic crowdfunding and donor characteristics during a pandemic
Authors: van Teunenbroek Claire , Hasanefendic Sandra
Published: October 2022

New online forms of giving have appeared next to more traditional ways like door‐to‐door collections. One of these new forms is philanthropic crowdfunding: donation‐ and reward‐based crowdfunding. Crowdfunding is a promising method for mobilising and recruiting donors who may be unreachable via traditional methods. We analysed online giving via crowdfunding, focusing on donor characteristics and giving behaviour before and during the COVID‐19 pandemic. Our analysis comprises survey research (n = 2125) observing giving behaviour on an individual level for both donors and non‐donors. Our contributions are twofold. First, we report on the characteristics of donors who give to crowdfunding sources and in relation to donors who give via a door‐to‐door (i.e., ‘traditional’) collection focusing on micro‐ rather than macro‐level data. Second, we compare the giving behaviour via crowdfunding with references to door‐to‐door collections before and during the COVID‐19 pandemic. We show that the percentage of individuals supporting crowdfunding did not increase between 2018 (11%) and 2020 (12%). Regarding the amount, donors donated 13% higher amounts in 2020, but the difference was not significant. Regarding the characteristics of donors, we find that social media has a substantive role in giving via crowdfunding irrespective of other personal markers such as age, education, income, and gender, while this is not relevant in the case of door‐to‐door collection. Moreover, most people give to crowdfunding projects that are connected to an acquaintance, which signals that familiarity with the person initiating the crowdfunding projects plays a role. We conclude that crowdfunding, relative to more traditional giving, focuses more on informal giving than formal giving. Such an understanding requires different strategies and stimuli to increase giving via crowdfunding.
Proanthocyanidin biosynthesis in the developing wheat seed coat investigated by chemical and RNA‐Seq analysis
Authors: Vaughan Simon P. , Baker John M. , Primavesi Lucia F. , Patil Archana , King Robert , Hassani‐Pak Keywan , Kulasekaran Satish , Coghill Jane , Ward Jane L. , Huttly Alison K. , Phillips Andrew L.
Published: October 2022

The composition of proanthocyanidins in the testa (seed coat) of bread wheat was analyzed by thiolysis of PA oligomers from developing grain and found to consist of (+)‐catechin monomers, with a small amount of (+)‐gallocatechin. The average chain length of soluble PA stayed relatively constant between 10 and 20 days post‐anthesis, whereas that of unextractable PA increased over the same period, suggesting that increases in chain length might account for the insolubility of PAs from mature wheat grain. We carried out RNA‐Seq followed by differential expression analysis from dissected tissues of developing grain from red‐ and white‐grained near‐isogenic lines differing in the presence of an active R gene that encodes a MYB transcription factor involved in control of PA biosynthesis. In addition to genes already identified encoding chalcone synthase, chalcone isomerase, flavanone 3‐hydroxylase, and dihydroxyflavonoid 4‐reductase, we showed that wheat genes encoding phenylalanine ammonia lyase, flavonoid 3′,5′‐hydroxylase, leucoanthocyanidin reductase, and a glutathione S‐transferase (the orthologue of maize Bronze‐2) were more highly expressed in the red NIL. We also identified candidate orthologues of other catalytic and regulatory components of flavonoid biosynthesis in wheat.
Molecular understanding of the possible mechanisms of oligosaccharide oxidation by cold plasma
Authors: Yusupov Maksudbek , Dewaele Debbie , Attri Pankaj , Khalilov Umedjon , Sobott Frank , Bogaerts Annemie
Published: October 2022

Cold atmospheric plasma (CAP) is a promising technology for several medical applications, including the removal of biofilms from surfaces. However, the molecular mechanisms of CAP treatment are still poorly understood. Here we unravel the possible mechanisms of CAP‐induced oxidation of oligosaccharides, employing reactive molecular dynamics simulations based on the density functional‐tight binding potential. Specifically, we find that the interaction of oxygen atoms (used as CAP‐generated reactive species) with cellotriose (a model system for the oligosaccharides) can break structurally important glycosidic bonds, which subsequently leads to the disruption of the oligosaccharide molecule. The overall results help to shed light on our experimental evidence for cellotriose oxidation by CAP. This study provides atomic‐level insight into the onset of plasma‐induced removal of biofilms, as oligosaccharides are one of the main components of biofilm.
Spatial and temporal dynamics of aufeis in the Tso Moriri basin, eastern Ladakh, India
Authors: Brombierstäudl Dagmar , Schmidt Susanne , Nüsser Marcus
Published: October 2022

Aufeis is a common phenomenon in cold regions of the Northern Hemisphere that develops during winter by successive water overflow and freezing on ice‐covered surfaces. Most studies on aufeis occurrence focus on regions in North America and Siberia, while research in High Mountain Asia (HMA) is still in an exploratory phase. This study investigates the extent and dynamics of icing processes and aufeis in the Tso Moriri basin, eastern Ladakh, India. Based on a combination of 235 Landsat 5 TM/8 OLI and Sentinel‐2 imagery from 2008 to 2021 the occurrence of icing and aufeis was classified using a random forest classifier. A total of 27 frequently occurring aufeis fields with an average maximum extent of 9 km2 were identified, located at a mean elevation of 4,700 m a.s.l. Temporal patterns show a distinct accumulation phase (icing) between November and April, and a melting phase lasting from May until July. Icing is characterized by high seasonal and inter‐annual variability. Successive water overflow mainly occurs between January and March and seems to be related to diurnal freeze–thaw‐cycles, whereas higher daytime temperatures result in larger icing areas. Aufeis feeding sources are often located within or in close vicinity to wetland areas, while vegetation is largely absent on surfaces with frequent aufeis formation. These interactions require more attention in future research. In addition, this study shows the high potential of a machine learning approach to monitor icing processes and aufeis, which can be transferred to other regions.
Uncovering the promiscuous activity of IL‐6 proteins: A multi‐dimensional analysis of phylogeny, classification and residue conservation
Authors: Costa André da , Franco‐Duarte Ricardo , Machado Raul , Gomes Andreia C.
Published: October 2022

The IL‐6 family of cytokines, known for their pleiotropic behavior, share binding to the gp130 receptor for signal transduction with the necessity to bind other receptors. Leukemia inhibitory factor receptor is triggered by the IL‐6 family proteins: leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF), oncostatin‐M (OSM), cardiotrophin‐1 (CT‐1), ciliary neurotrophic factor (CNTF), and cardiotrophin‐like cytokine factor 1 (CLCF1). Besides the conserved binding sites to the receptor, not much is known in terms of the diversity and characteristics of these proteins in different organisms. Herein, we describe the sequence analysis of LIF, OSM, and CT‐1 from several organisms, and m17, a LIF ortholog found in fishes, regarding its phylogenetics, intrinsic properties, and the impact of conserved residues on structural features. Sequences were identified in seven classes of vertebrates, showing high conservation values in binding site III, but protein‐dependent results on binding site II. GRAVY, isoelectric point, and molecular weight parameters were relevant to differentiate classes in each protein and to enable, for the first time and with high fidelity, the prediction of both organism class and protein type just using machine learning approaches. OSM sequences from primates showed an increased BC loop when compared to the remaining mammals, which could influence binding to OSM receptor and tune signaling pathways. Overall, this study highlights the potential of sequence diversity analysis to understand IL‐6 cytokine family evolution, showing the conservation of function‐related motifs and evolution of class and protein‐dependent characteristics. Our results could impact future medical treatment of disorders associated with imbalances in these cytokines.
Bioplastic degradation by a polyhydroxybutyrate depolymerase from a thermophilic soil bacterium
Authors: Thomas Gwendell M. , Quirk Stephen , Huard Dustin J. E. , Lieberman Raquel L.
Published: October 2022

As the epidemic of single‐use plastic worsens, it has become critical to identify fully renewable plastics such as those that can be degraded using enzymes. Here we describe the structure and biochemistry of an alkaline poly[(R)‐3‐hydroxybutyric acid] (PHB) depolymerase from the soil thermophileLihuaxuella thermophila. Like other PHB depolymerases or PHBases, theLihuaxuellaenzyme is active against several different polyhydroxyalkanoates, including homo‐ and heteropolymers, butL. thermophilaPHB depolymerase (LtPHBase) is unique in that it also hydrolyzes polylactic acid and polycaprolactone.LtPHBase exhibits optimal activity at 70°C, and retains 88% of activity upon incubation at 65°C for 3 days. The 1.2 Å resolution crystal structure reveals an α/β‐hydrolase fold typical of PHBases, but with a shallow active site containing the catalytic Ser‐His‐Asp‐triad that appears poised for broad substrate specificity.LtPHBase holds promise for the depolymerization of PHB and related bioplastics at high temperature, as would be required in bioindustrial operations like recycling or landfill management.
Residual efficacy of the neonicotinoid insecticide clothianidin against pyrethroid‐resistant Aedes aegypti
Authors: Che‐Mendoza Azael , González‐Olvera Gabriela , Medina‐Barreiro Anuar , Arisqueta‐Chablé Carlos , Herrera‐Bojórquez Josue , Bibiano‐Marín Wilberth , Kirstein Oscar , Vazquez‐Prokopec Gonzalo , Manrique‐Saide Pablo
Published: October 2022

BACKGROUND

Here we report the residual efficacy of the neonicotinoid insecticide clothianidin against pyrethroid‐resistant Aedes aegypti. We first conducted a range‐finding evaluation of clothianidin on three different substrates (wall, wood, cloth) using three doses (100, 300 and 600 mg a.i. m−2) and conducting World Health Organization (WHO) cone bioassays to assess acute (24 h) and delayed (up to 7 days) mortality. In experimental houses located in Merida (Mexico) and using free‐flying pyrethroid‐resistant Ae. aegypti females, we quantified the acute and delayed mortality after a 24‐h exposure to the targeted indoor residual spraying (TIRS) of two clothianidin doses (100 and 300 mg a.i. m−2).

RESULTS

Range‐finding studies with WHO cones showed low (<50%) acute mortality for all surfaces, doses and times post spraying. Delayed mortality was higher, with average values above or close to the 60% mark (and 95% confidence interval estimates crossing 80% for the 600 mg a.i. m−2 dose). In experimental houses, a similar low acute mortality was quantified (range of mortality across 12 months was 2–44% for 100 mg a.i. m−2 and 8–61% for 300 mg a.i/m2). However, delayed mortality showed a strong effect of clothianidin on free‐flying Ae. aegypti, with values above 80% up to 7 months post‐TIRS.

CONCLUSION

Novel residual insecticide molecules have a promising outlook for Ae. aegypti control and can contribute to the expansion and adoption of TIRS in urban areas. clothianidin can contribute to the control of resistant Ae. aegypti and provide residual control for up to 7 months after application. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Discovery of rosin‐based acylhydrazone derivatives as potential antifungal agents against rice Rhizoctonia solani for sustainable crop protection
Authors: Xu Renle , Gu Shihao , Chen Kun , Chen Jinyu , Wang Yong , Gao Yanqing , Shang Shibin , Song Zhanqian , Song Jie , Li Jian
Published: October 2022

BACKGROUND

The use of fungicides to protect crops from diseases is an effective method, and novel environmentally friendly plant‐derived fungicides with enhanced performance and low toxicity are urgent requirements for sustainable agriculture.

RESULTS

Two kinds of rosin‐based acylhydrazone compounds were designed and prepared. Based on the antifungal activity assessment against Rhizoctonia solani, Fusarium oxysporum, Phytophthora capsici, Sclerotinia sclerotiorum, and Botrytis cinerea, acylhydrazone derivatives containing a thiophene ring were screened and showed an inhibitory effect on rice R. solani. Among them, Compound 4n, with an electron‐withdrawing group on the benzene ring structure attached to the thiophene ring, showed optimal activity, and the EC50 value was 0.981 mg L−1, which was lower than that of carbendazim. Furthermore, it was indicated that 4n could affect the mycelial morphology, cell membrane permeability and microstructure, cause the generation of reactive oxygen species in fungal cells, and damage the nucleus and mitochondrial physiological function, resulting in the cell death of R. solani. Meanwhile, Compound 4n exhibited a better therapeutic effect on in vivo rice plants. However, the induction activity of 4n on the defense enzyme in rice leaf sheaths showed that 4n stimulates the initial resistance of rice plants by removing active oxygen, thereby protecting the cell membrane or enhancing the strength of the cell wall. Through the quantitative structure–activity relationship study, the quantitative chemical and electrostatic descriptors significantly affect the binding of 4n with the receptor, which improves its antifungal activity.

CONCLUSION

This study provides a basis for exploiting potential rosin‐based fungicides in promoting sustainable crop protection. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry.
Observer‐based consensus tracking control for a class of nonstrict‐feedback nonlinear multi‐agent systems with prescribed performance and input quantization
Authors: Shi Zhengqing , Zhou Chuan , Guo Jian
Published: October 2022

This article investigates the consensus tracking problem with predefined transient and steady performance requirements for a class of nonstrict‐feedback nonlinear multi‐agent systems (MASs) with input quantization under a directed graph. Based on prescribed performance error transformation methods and command filtered backstepping techniques, a novel observer‐based adaptive control protocol is proposed, where neural observers are designed to estimate unmeasurable states and radial basis function neural networks are constructed to compensate command filter errors. The proposed protocol can be applied to a more general class of nonlinear MASs with nonstrict‐feedback nonlinear dynamics and unmeasurable states information. It is strictly proved that all signals in the whole MAS are semi‐globally uniformly ultimately bounded and both the transient and steady performances of the consensus tracking errors satisfy prescribed performance requirements. Finally, three numerical examples are presented to validate the effectiveness of the proposed protocol.
Accessing cash(lessness): Cash dependency, debt, and digital finance in a marginalized Roma neighborhood
Authors: Ravnbøl Camilla Ida
Published: October 2022

This article contributes to contemporary ethnographies concerning poverty and digital financial inclusion in Europe. More specifically, it explores how poor Roma families engage with digital banking cards at home in Romania and when they travel to work in the informal economy in Denmark. The analysis conceptually unfolds “access” as a framework for financial inclusion and applies it to an empirical case of three brothers in a Roma family. On this basis, the article argues that cashless initiatives can, perhaps unintentionally, be a driving element in new practices of social exclusion. Without a comprehensive approach toward ensuring “de facto access” for the marginalized communities, which takes all dimensions of access into account, digital financial initiatives can potentially push them further to the periphery of the global economy.
Corporate social counterpositioning: How attributes of social issues influence competitive response
Authors: Mohliver Aharon , Crilly Donal , Kaul Aseem
Published: October 2022

Research Summary

Whilst existing research generally assumes corporate social responsibility (CSR) is seen as universally positive, firms increasingly adopt practices, and take stands, on highly polarizing social issues (e.g., gun‐control, LGBTQ rights, abortion). To better understand this phenomenon, we develop a theory about when firms will emulate, ignore, or oppose each other's CSR efforts, based on attributes of the underlying social issue (its salience and polarization), the level of market competition, and the substantiveness of CSR. Our theory predicts several distinct equilibrium outcomes, including the potential for social counter‐positioning, whereby rival firms take advantage of socio‐political polarization to horizontally differentiate by taking opposing stances on a polarizing issue. Counterpositioning is more likely when salience is high, but agreement is low, when markets are competitive, and when CSR is largely symbolic.

Managerial Summary

Firms increasingly find themselves drawn, willingly or not, to taking stances on a controversial social issue (e.g., gun rights, abortion), though doing so risks alienating (some) stakeholders. In this paper, we develop a theory of why, when, and how firms should take a stance on a polarizing issue. We argue that firms profit from doing so when (1) the issue is salient, (2) markets are competitive, and (3) the actions are mostly symbolic. We also show that taking a stance on polarizing issues creates opportunities for the firms' competitors to counter their ideological positioning, strengthening weaker rivals in the process. Thus, in competitive markets, taking clear stances on polarizing, salient issues can segment the market, increasing the profits of all firms, and, potentially, intensifying polarization.
Oxidation State Modulation of Bimetallic Tin‐Copper Oxide Nanotubes for Selective CO2 Electroreduction to Formate
Authors: Jiang Xingxing , Li Xuan , Kong Yan , Deng Chen , Li Xiaojie , Hu Qi , Yang Hengpan , He Chuanxin
Published: October 2022

In this work, the oxidation state of Sn and Cu active sites for CO2 electroreduction via constructing a Sn‐Cun bimetallic oxide composite with a nanotube structure (SnCu‐CNS) is successfully modulated. Compared to a single SnO2 or CuOx component, the SnCu‐CNS composite holds reinforced electronegativity to generate unique extra Snδ+ centers and higher CuO centers with enhanced oxidation effect. Based on density functional theory calculations, the enlarged energy difference between Snδ+/CuO centers and the reactants accelerates the electron transfer and decreases the energy barrier for the key intermediates to gain higher formate selectivity. Furthermore, the hollow structure and abundant micropores of SnCu‐CNS are also conducive to the reactant transport and availability of active sites during CO2 electroreduction. In a conventional H‐type cell, SnCu‐CNS catalyst exhibits a maximum 95.1% faradaic efficiency for formate production. Switching to a flow cell configuration, SnCu‐CNS can further deliver partial current densities exceeding 200 mA cm−2 and over 90% faradaic efficiencies for the formate, superior to most of the reported Sn‐based electrocatalysts. This strategy of electronic modulation and morphology engineering in bimetallic oxides can have wide applications to raise electrocatalytic performance.
Structure Analysis of Pellets with Different Reduction Degrees Using X‐Ray Micro‐Computed Tomography
Authors: Nie Hao , Qi Bing , Li Ying , Qiu Dejing , Wei Han , Hammam Abourehab , Ahmed Abdallah , Yu Yaowei
Published: October 2022

Pellets are raw materials for blast furnace (BF) production, and a comprehensive understanding of the reaction process of pellets is of great significance for the operational optimization of BF production, energy saving, and emission reduction. The present study focuses on the structural evolution of pellets at different reduction stages. Combined with micro‐computed tomography (micro‐CT), interrupted reduction experiments are designed to analyze the different reduction stages of the pellet. The effects of the gas composition and temperature on the reduction are investigated. The results demonstrate that the combination of interrupted reduction experiments and micro‐CT can effectively illustrate the internal information of the pellets at different stages. The reduction products of H2 are dense iron phases, resulting in a clear pore stratification inside the pellet, and the outer pores almost disappear. In addition, the internal structure of the pellet is complex and the degree of reaction is uneven. The cracks generated during the reduction reaction become gas channels, which lead to a higher local reduction rate than in the others. Notably, the reduction expansion of pellets at 1000 °C is faster than that at 700 °C and the surface cracking is more severe.
Atomic Dispersion of Pt Clusters Encapsulated Within ZSM‐5 Depending on Aluminum Sites and Calcination Temperature
Authors: Zhang Shaocheng , Li Yufeng , Ding Chuanmin , Niu Yanxia , Zhang Yafeng , Yang Bing , Li Gangsen , Wang Junwen , Ma Zili , Yu Li-Juan
Published: October 2022

Atomically dispersed Pt atoms encapsulated inside ZSM‐5 zeolites are synthesized via thermally induced dispersion under oxygen atmosphere. Dispersion of Pt clusters within ZSM‐5 and silicate‐1 is compared to investigate its dependence on the support and calcination temperature. Detailed density functional theory (DFT) calculations are applied to rationalize the dispersion process, which includes the detachment of Pt species from the bulk and the migration of volatile PtO
x
species, both of which are accelerated by thermal treatment at high temperature. DFT results also indicate that Al atoms within zeolites provide the anchoring sites to retain the dominated PtO species, though their interaction with the support is weakened with the increase in temperature. Our findings suggest that successful dispersion depends on the strong metal–support interaction and thermal treatment at moderate temperature (500 °C) which is crucial to balance the detachment and fixation of Pt atoms. This study paves the way to further understand the dispersion mechanism and assist in the development of stable single‐atom catalysts.
Effect of Wheat and Oat Bran on the Physicochemical Properties of Edible Starch‐Based Films Obtained by Extrusion for Food Packaging Applications
Authors: Ochoa‐Yepes Oswaldo , Ceballos Rocío L. , Famá Lucía
Published: October 2022

Obtaining edible and biodegradable films for food packaging applications has been a strong desire of consumers, scientific community and industry for years. In this context, edible films from cassava starch with wheat or oat bran (0, 5 and 10 wt.%) manufactured from an industrially established process for packaging, such as extrusion technique, are investigated. Wheat bran is found to have a high content of total dietary fiber, being able to provide a nutritional contribution to the packaging and to consumers. Some broken bran grains smaller than 1 µm are observed, distributed quite homogeneously in the matrix and without the presence of phase separation, suggesting great miscibility between the components. Brans acted as reinforcement in concentrations of 10 wt.%, leading in thecase of wheat bran to increases of 850%, 45% and 25% in Young modulus, strength at break and toughness, respectively, and to decreases in moisture content. The incorporation of bran not significant change the thermal stability and biodegradation of the films. This investigation showed that biodegradable and edible cassava starch‐based films can be manufactured by a scalable process with possible improvements in nutrition and mechanical strength using 10 wt.% of bran for its potential employ as food packaging.
Diagnosis and management of rare sequels to feline lower urinary tract disease in two cats
Authors: Mazda Delna , Ahamad Azahari Ikhwan Saufi , Megat Abdul Rani Puteri Azaziah , Omar Sharina , Lau Seng Fong
Published: October 2022

The present case report describes the clinical course and outcome of two cats initially diagnosed with feline lower urinary tract disease. The first cat proceeded to develop emphysematous cystitis. This report documented the first occurrence of Enterobacter cloacae in a case of emphysematous cystitis. The other cat developed pseudomembraneous cystitis, a condition rarely documented in cats. This report revealed the first occurrence of Pasteurella pneumotropica in a case of feline pseudomembraneous cystitis. Both conditions are uncommon sequels to feline lower urinary tract disease and can be identified by ultrasonography. They can develop secondary to severe bacterial urinary tract infections. Cats were treated medically and surgically, depending on the severity of their condition. An early diagnosis and appropriate medical therapy could lead to avoidance of surgical intervention in both conditions. The report highlights the importance of ultrasonography in early diagnosis and continuous monitoring of such conditions.
Automatic diagnosis of sleep apnea from biomedical signals using artificial intelligence techniques: Methods, challenges, and future works
Authors: Moridian Parisa , Shoeibi Afshin , Khodatars Marjane , Jafari Mahboobeh , Pachori Ram Bilas , Khadem Ali , Alizadehsani Roohallah , Ling Sai Ho
Published: October 2022

Apnea is a sleep disorder that stops or reduces airflow for a short time during sleep. Sleep apnea may last for a few seconds and happen for many while sleeping. This reduction in breathing is associated with loud snoring, which may awaken the person with a feeling of suffocation. So far, a variety of methods have been introduced by researchers to diagnose sleep apnea, among which the polysomnography (PSG) method is known to be the best. Analysis of PSG signals is very complicated. Many studies have been conducted on the automatic diagnosis of sleep apnea from biological signals using artificial intelligence (AI), including machine learning (ML) and deep learning (DL) methods. This research reviews and investigates the studies on the diagnosis of sleep apnea using AI methods. First, computer aided diagnosis system (CADS) for sleep apnea using ML and DL techniques along with its parts including dataset, preprocessing, and ML and DL methods are introduced. This research also summarizes the important specifications of the studies on the diagnosis of sleep apnea using ML and DL methods in a table. In the following, a comprehensive discussion is made on the studies carried out in this field. The challenges in the diagnosis of sleep apnea using AI methods are of paramount importance for researchers. Accordingly, these obstacles are elaborately addressed. In another section, the most important future works for studies on sleep apnea detection from PSG signals and AI techniques are presented. Ultimately, the essential findings of this study are provided in the conclusion section.

This article is categorized under:

Technologies > Artificial Intelligence

Application Areas > Data Mining Software Tools

Algorithmic Development > Biological Data Mining
Liberty, Paternalism, and Road Safety
Authors: Hansson Sven Ove
Published: October 2022

Traffic safety measures such as seat belts, helmets, and speed limits have often been opposed by people claiming that these measures infringe on their liberty. Safety measures are often described as paternalistic, i.e., as protecting people against their own will. This chapter provides a historical account of such criticism of safety measures, beginning with nineteenth-century opposition to sanitation measures, which were claimed to threaten the freedom to drink dirty water. The historical analysis has a surprising conclusion: Opposition to safety measures does not seem to have much to do with paternalism. Some measures that would typically be described as paternalistic, such as seat belts in commercial aviation and hard hats on construction sites, have met with no significant opposition. In contrast, some of the most vehemently opposed measures, such as speed limits and the prohibition of drunk driving, cannot with any vestige of credibility be described as paternalistic. This is followed by an analysis showing that due to our tendency to follow examples set by others (herd effects), purely self-affecting behavior is much less common than what has usually been assumed. Most of the opposition to safety measures in road traffic seem to result from some individuals’ desires to engage in activities that endanger other people’s lives. The social need to restrain the satisfaction of such desires is obvious.
Final Reflections
Authors: Bjørn Pernille , Menendez-Blanco Maria , Borsotti Valeria
Published: October 2022

Working on research in equity, inclusion, and diversity in technology development has brought us many interesting reflections on the kinds of research we do, what we include, and what we exclude – and on the kind of institutions we are part of, were part of earlier, and will take an active part in creating in the future.
Die-Less Forming of Fiber-Reinforced Plastic Composites
Authors: Rath Jan-Erik , Graupner Robert , Schüppstuhl Thorsten
Published: October 2022

Fiber-reinforced plastics (FRP) are increasingly popular in light weight applications such as aircraft manufacturing. However, most production processes of thin-walled FRP parts to date involve the use of expensive forming tools. This especially hinders cost-effective production of small series as well as individual parts and prototypes. In this paper, we develop new possible alternatives of highly automated and die-less production processes based on a short review of current approaches on flexible thin-walled FRP production. All proposed processes involve robot guided standard tools, similar to incremental sheet metal forming, for local forming of the base materials. These include woven glass fiber fabrics which are locally impregnated with thermoset resin and cured using UV-light, woven commingled yarns made out of glass fibers and thermoplastic fibers which are locally heated and pressed, as well as pre-consolidated thermoplastic organo sheets which require selective heating for forming. General applicability of the processes is investigated and validated in practical experiments.