bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sensitive remote homology search by local alignment of small positional embeddings from protein language models
Authors: Johnson Sean R , Peshwa Meghana , Sun Zhiyi
Published: October 2023

Accurately detecting distant evolutionary relationships between proteins remains an ongoing challenge in bioinformatics. Search methods based on primary sequence struggle to accurately detect homology between sequences with less than 20% amino acid identity. Profile- and structure-based strategies extend sensitive search capabilities into this twilight zone of sequence similarity but require slow pre-processing steps. Recently, whole-protein and positional embeddings from deep neural networks have shown promise for providing sensitive sequence comparison and annotation at long evolutionary distances. Embeddings are generally faster to compute than profiles and predicted structures but still suffer several drawbacks related to the ability of whole-protein embeddings to discriminate domain-level homology, and the database size and search speed of methods using positional embeddings. In this work, we show that low-dimensionality positional embeddings can be used directly in speed-optimized local search algorithms. As a proof of concept, we use the ESM2 3B model to convert primary sequences directly into the 3D interaction (3Di) alphabet or amino acid profiles and use these embeddings as input to the highly optimized Foldseek, HMMER3, and HH-suite search algorithms. Our results suggest that positional embeddings as small as a single byte can provide sufficient information for dramatically improved sensitivity over amino acid sequence searches without sacrificing search speed.
Cryo-EM structure of the CBC-ALYREF complex
Authors: Clarke Bradley P , Angelos Alexia E , Mei Menghan , Hill Pate S , Xie Yihu , Ren Yi
Published: October 2023

In eukaryotes, RNAs transcribed by RNA Pol II are modified at the 5′ end with a 7-methylguanosine (m7G) cap, which is recognized by the nuclear cap binding complex (CBC). The CBC plays multiple important roles in mRNA metabolism, including transcription, splicing, polyadenylation, and export. It promotes mRNA export through direct interaction with a key mRNA export factor, ALYREF, which in turn links the TRanscription and EXport (TREX) complex to the 5′ end of mRNA. However, the molecular mechanism for CBC-mediated recruitment of the mRNA export machinery is not well understood. Here, we present the first structure of the CBC in complex with an mRNA export factor, ALYREF. The cryo-EM structure of CBC-ALYREF reveals that the RRM domain of ALYREF makes direct contact with both the NCBP1 and NCBP2 subunits of the CBC. Comparing CBC-ALYREF with other cellular complexes containing CBC and/or ALYREF components provides insights into the coordinated events during mRNA transcription, splicing, and export.
A kinase to cytokine explorer to identify molecular regulators and potential therapeutic opportunities
Authors: Chan Marina , Kang Yuqi , Osborne Shannon , Zager Michael , Gujral Taranjit S
Published: October 2023

Cytokines and chemokines are secreted proteins that regulate various biological processes, such as inflammation, immune response, and cell differentiation. Therefore, disruption of signaling pathways involving these proteins has been linked to a range of diseases, including cancer. However, targeting individual cytokines, chemokines, or their receptors is challenging due to their regulatory redundancy and incomplete understanding of their signaling networks. To transform these difficult-to-drug targets into a pharmacologically manageable class, we developed a web-based platform called KinCytE. This platform was designed to link the effects of kinase inhibitors, a well-established class of drugs, with cytokine and chemokine release and signaling networks. The resulting KinCytE platform enables users to investigate protein kinases that regulate specific cytokines or chemokines, generate a ranked list of FDA-approved kinase inhibitors that affect cytokine/chemokine activity, and explore and visualize cytokine signaling network thus facilitating drugging this challenging target class. KinCytE is freely accessible via https://atlas.fredhutch.org/kincyte.
Early recovery of proteasome activity in cells pulse-treated with proteasome inhibitors is independent of DDI2
Authors: Ibtisam Ibtisam , Kisselev Alexei F
Published: October 2023

Rapid recovery of proteasome activity may contribute to intrinsic and acquired resistance to FDA-approved proteasome inhibitors. Previous studies have demonstrated that the expression of proteasome genes in cells treated with sub-lethal concentrations of proteasome inhibitors is upregulated by the transcription factor Nrf1 (NFE2L1), which is activated by a DDI2 protease. Here, we demonstrate that the recovery of proteasome activity is DDI2-independent and occurs before transcription of proteasomal genes is upregulated but requires protein translation. Thus, mammalian cells possess an additional DDI2 and transcription-independent pathway for the rapid recovery of proteasome activity after proteasome inhibition.
A multiplexed, single-cell sequencing screen identifies compounds that increase neurogenic reprogramming of murine Muller glia
Authors: Tresenrider Amy , Hooper Marcus , Todd Levi , Kierney Faith , Blasdel Nicolai A , Trapnell Cole , Reh Thomas A
Published: October 2023

Retinal degeneration in mammals causes permanent loss of vision, due to an inability to regenerate naturally. Some non-mammalian vertebrates show robust regeneration, via Muller glia (MG). We have recently made significant progress in stimulating adult mouse MG to regenerate functional neurons by transgenic expression of the proneural transcription factor Ascl1. While these results showed that MG can serve as an endogenous source of neuronal replacement, the efficacy of this process is limited. With the goal of improving this in mammals, we designed a small molecule screen using sci-Plex, a method to multiplex up to thousands of single-nucleus RNA-seq conditions into a single experiment. We used this technology to screen a library of 92 compounds, identified, and validated two that promote neurogenesis in vivo. Our results demonstrate that high-throughput single-cell molecular profiling can substantially improve the discovery process for molecules and pathways that can stimulate neural regeneration and further demonstrate the potential for this approach to restore vision in patients with retinal disease.
A multiplexed, single-cell sequencing screen identifies compounds that increase neurogenic reprogramming of murine Muller glia
Authors: Tresenrider Amy , Hooper Marcus , Todd Levi , Kierney Faith , Blasdel Nicolai , Trapnell Cole , Reh Thomas A.
Published: October 2023

Retinal degeneration in mammals causes permanent loss of vision, due to an inability to regenerate naturally. Some non-mammalian vertebrates show robust regeneration, via Muller glia (MG). We have recently made significant progress in stimulating adult mouse MG to regenerate functional neurons by transgenic expression of the proneural transcription factor Ascl1. While these results showed that MG can serve as an endogenous source of neuronal replacement, the efficacy of this process is limited. With the goal of improving this in mammals, we designed a small molecule screen using sci-Plex, a method to multiplex up to thousands of single nucleus RNA-seq conditions into a single experiment. We used this technology to screen a library of 92 compounds, identified, and validated two that promote neurogenesis
in vivo
. Our results demonstrate that high-throughput single-cell molecular profiling can substantially improve the discovery process for molecules and pathways that can stimulate neural regeneration and further demonstrate the potential for this approach to restore vision in patients with retinal disease.
Experiência interdisciplinar na cooperativa d’Irituia
Authors: Dos Santos Rayssa Silva , Costa Adriane de Brito Silva , Gonçalves Bruno Santos , Da Silva Márcia Brito , Da Paixão Antônio Jorge Paraense
Published: October 2023

A educação da população do campo vem sendo estudada por diferentes movimentos populares sociais que acreditam que o maior desafio é construir referenciais culturais e políticos no intuito de preparar essas pessoas para intervirem ativamente como sujeitos sociais na realidade em que fazem parte. Assim, esse trabalho teve como objetivo conhecer as práticas produtivas desenvolvidas pelos produtores rurais, a relação dos saberes empíricos com os conhecimentos científicos para o desenvolvimento do seu trabalho e as políticas públicas desenvolvidas para as populações do campo no município de Irituia – Pará. Como técnicas de coleta de dados foram adotadas a observação direta, conversa informal e caminhada transversal sobre assuntos relacionados à organização social, realidade da comunidade, modo de vida, produção dos alimentos, o trabalho coletivo da cooperativa e políticas públicas. Os agricultores relataram que por meio da cooperativa conseguiram a implantação dos sistemas agroflorestais que trouxe melhorias ao meio ambiente, na produção e na qualidade de vida dos agricultores. A educação formal é presente e influente na melhoria do empreendimento familiar visto que ao conciliar os conhecimentos acadêmicos e empíricos promove o aumento da produtividade agrícola. Os agricultores destacaram a carência de investimentos dos poderes públicos na região, principalmente em relação a oferta de educação de qualidade para crianças e jovens do campo, também ressaltaram as deficiências na atenção à saúde das pessoas da comunidade. Percebeu-se que as políticas públicas relativas à educação e saúde ainda não atendem plenamente as necessidades dos sujeitos que vivem e trabalham no campo.
Transformando processos: estudo de caso na empresa Tocha Mix comércio de serviços
Authors: Martins Ilane Duarte , De Oliveira Shawanna Samya Fernandes , Rodrigues Waldeneyde Myllene de Sousa , Roberto José Carlos Alves , Pinto Junior José Roberto Lira
Published: October 2023

Este estudo concentra-se em apresentar uma análise detalhada do Diagnóstico Operacional realizado na Empresa Tocha Mix Comércio e Serviços, localizada em Manaus-AM. Ele destaca a importância da reestruturação organizacional, enfocando a complexidade dos processos empresariais e a necessidade de uma análise minuciosa. Além disso, aborda questões como o desenvolvimento de líderes, a comunicação interna eficaz e estratégias motivacionais para garantir que os membros da equipe estejam motivados e desempenhando bem em suas atividades, todos elementos cruciais para que as empresas prosperem e se mantenham relevantes em um cenário empresarial em constante transformação. A pergunta problema que norteia este estudo é: "Como a reestruturação organizacional pode influenciar na produtividade dos colaboradores e na satisfação dos clientes?" O objetivo geral deste estudo é analisar a importância da reestruturação organizacional na empresa Tocha Mix Comércio E Serviços, com foco na melhoria da produtividade dos colaboradores e na satisfação dos clientes. O estudo foi realizado tendo como objeto de estudo pesquisas bibliográficas, revisão de artigos e consultas a livros com base em pesquisa qualitativa. Conclui-se que o entendimento sobre como a reestruturação organizacional pode impactar positivamente a eficiência dos colaboradores e contentamento dos clientes. Espera-se que os resultados incluam uma compreensão aprofundada das estratégias de reestruturação que podem melhorar o desempenho interno e a excelência dos produtos e serviços disponibilizados. Além disso, o estudo busca fornecer diretrizes práticas para líderes e gestores na implementação dessas estratégias, participando ativamente do sucesso das organizações em um cenário empresarial em contínua evolução.
Study of the relationship between smartphone addiction and head and shoulder posture curvatures in adolescent individuals
Authors: Tokgöz Üyesi Gürkan
Published: October 2023

This study aims to investigate the relationship between smartphone addiction and head and shoulder posture curvatures in adolescents. The sample group consisted of a total of 408 participants, 284 male and 124 female students studying at the secondary level in Elazığ, while the population of the study consisted of adolescents between the ages of 14-17. Before the research, a voluntary consent form signed by their parents was obtained from the participants. "Smartphone Addiction Scale Short Form (SAS-SF)" and "Posturescreen" mobile applications were used as data collection tools. Independent-sample T-tests and One Way Anova tests were applied In the statistical review of the obtained data. Pearson Correlation analysis was applied to determine the relationship between smartphone dependency level and posture curvatures. The data obtained from the participants were examined in terms of gender, age, daily phone usage time, and phone usage history variables. There were no significant differences in gender, age, and usage history variables. A significant difference was found between the groups using between 1-3 hours, 3-5 hours, and over 5 hours in the daily usage time variable. It has been determined that as the daily usage time increases, smartphone addiction and head and shoulder curvatures increase. A moderate positive relationship was found between smartphone addiction and head and shoulder posture curvatures. As the participants' smartphone addiction increased, so did their head and shoulder curvatures. As a result; A significant relationship was found between smartphone addiction and head and posture curvatures. The increase in smartphone addiction also increases posture curvatures. In addition, the increase in smartphone daily usage time has increased the level of addiction and posture curvatures.
Identification and impact of Atractomerus pitangae: a new pest on Rio Grande Cherry seeds (Eugenia involucrata)
Authors: Araldi Dane Block , Guedes Jerson Vanderlei Carús , Panozzo Luís Eduardo , Spinelli Victor Mouzinho , Carvalho Ivan Ricardo , Silva José Antonio Gonzales , Tremea Marta Gubert , Magano Deivid Araújo
Published: October 2023

This study aimed to identify the insects which consumes Eugenia involucrata seeds and to evaluate the potential for damage to the seeds as well as the food substrate consumed by the attack. To obtain the data, a collection of fruits was carried out at the Forestry Research Center (FEPAGRO / Florestas) in the municipality of Santa Maria, RS, being conducted at the UFSM crop protection department. After seed processing were separated into healthy seeds and damaged seeds (those that contained an emergence hole for the insect). As for the analyzed seeds, there were a total of 3287 seeds, of which 1998 were healthy (60.08%), 1289 damaged seeds (39.2%) and a loss of substrate consumed of 7.65 g per seed, corresponding to a damage level of 39.98% of the food mass. It was found a high rate of predation in the seeds, which became unsuitable for the propagation of the plant. In this study, Atractomerus pitangae, associated with the predation of Eugenia involucrata seeds, was registered for the first time in southern Brazil.
Evaluation of a Multidisciplinary Resilience Program for Post-Secondary Students: A Pilot Study
Authors: Thannhauser Jennifer E. , Brillon Hayley , Nordstokke David , Szeto Andrew C. H. , Dobson Keith S.
Published: October 2023

Patient-oriented health research approaches are growing in popularity; however, there is a lack of literature describing how patient-oriented research is being utilized to enhance mental health programming for students. The current study reports on a participant-oriented approach to development and evaluation of an innovative, holistic, multi-disciplinary program designed to empower post-secondary students to actively maintain their health and well-being and support academic success. Results demonstrated significant increase in self-reported resilience and anxiety symptoms, but no change in depression symptoms. Prevention programs co-designed with intended users show promise as an effective approach to supporting students with sub-clinical mental health challenges.
Character Association Study in Maize Hybrids Developed through Integration of Rapid Cycle Genomic Selection and Doubled Haploid Technology for Heat Stress Tolerance
Authors: Swamy, N.  , Kuchanur, P. H.  , Patil Ayyanagouda , Zaidi, P. H.  , Vinayan, M. T.  , Arunkumar, B.  , Sowmya, H. C.  , Dhanoji, M. M.
Published: October 2023

Heat stress is becoming a major constraint for maize production; therefore heat stress resilience has emerged as an important aspect in maize hybrids targeted for post rainy spring season. Selection of genotypes based on high grain yield under heat stress condition is often misleading and the identification of secondary traits also associated with grain yield may help in development of heat tolerant cultivars. Hence, the present research work to study the association of traits was conducted during summer and kharif 2018 and rabi 2018-19 at Bheemarayanagudi and Raichur using 111 testcross progenies of doubled haploids derived from C1, C2 and C3 cycles of multi-parental synthetic population 1 and 2 improved through rapid cycle genomic selection for heat stress tolerance. The phenotypic correlation analysis under heat stress and optimal conditions, number of kernels per cob and cob girth exhibited the strong positive association with grain yield per plant. Further, under early spring condition number of kernels per cob, cob length, cob girth and 100 grain weight recorded the strong positive association with grain yield per plant. However, when considering across heat stress, early spring and optimal conditions, the grain yield per plant showed positive and significant strong to moderate association with the traits viz., number of kernels per cob, cob length and cob girth under all the seasons. In addition, days to 50% silking showed significant negative correlation with grain yield per plant under heat stress and optimal condition. Hence, the simultaneous selection criteria for the genotypes that exerts early silking, higher number of kernels per cob, higher cob girth and lengthy cob should be the priority of breeders to achieve higher grain yields in maize under heat stress condition as well as optimal conditions.
Technical Efficiency in Sugarcane Crop - A Stochastics Frontier Analysis
Authors: Kant Krishna
Published: October 2023

The paper assesses socio-economic, and technical efficiency of sugarcane farmers in Meerut district of Uttar Pradesh. 120 farmers samples were collected from four villages in two blocks. The study point out that marginal farmers were more younger and medium farmers were more educated and wealthier than the others. The stochastic frontier model was used to find out the technical efficiency of sample farmers of sugarcane crop. The farm resources human labour, seed and irrigation found statically significant in all groups of farms. Inefficiency was impacted negatively and significantly by farm equipment and positively and significantly by family size; Farmers can improve profit efficiency by increasing farm equipment and a smaller number of family members was inversely affect the efficiency. Distribution of sugarcane farm maximum under 70-80 percent of 49 farms (40.0 per cent) and only 4 farms (3.30 per cent) have the maximum efficiency score above 90 per cent.
Efficacy of Testosterone Replacement Therapy in Correcting Anemia in Men With Hypogonadism
Authors: Pencina Karol M. , Travison Thomas G. , Artz Andrew S. , Lincoff A. Michael , Nissen Steven E. , Flevaris Panagiotis , Chan Anna , Li Xue , Diegel Scott A. , Wannemuehler Kathleen , Bhasin Shalender
Published: October 2023

Importance

Testosterone deficiency causes mild anemia. Whether testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) can correct anemia or prevent the development of anemia in men with hypogonadism remains incompletely understood.

Objective

To assess the efficacy of TRT in correcting anemia in men with hypogonadism and anemia, and reducing the risk of developing anemia in those without anemia.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This randomized, placebo-controlled trial included men with hypogonadism at 316 US sites enrolled between May 2018 and February 2022. This study was nested within the Testosterone Replacement Therapy for Assessment of Long-term Vascular Events and Efficacy Response in Hypogonadal Men (TRAVERSE) Study, which evaluated the effect of TRT on major adverse cardiovascular events in middle-aged and older men with hypogonadism. Eligible participants were aged 45 to 80 years, with 2 testosterone concentration results below 300 ng/dL, hypogonadal symptoms, and cardiovascular disease (CVD) or increased CVD risk. The last study visit took place in January 2023. Data were analyzed between March and August 2023.

Intervention

Participants were randomized with stratification for preexisting CVD to 1.62% testosterone gel or placebo gel daily for the study duration.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Proportion of participants with anemia (hemoglobin below 12.7 g/dL) whose anemia remitted (hemoglobin 12.7 g/dL or above) over the study duration. Secondary end points included incidence of anemia among men who were not anemic. Binary end points were analyzed using repeated-measures log-binomial regression.

Results

A total of 5204 men were included, 815 with anemia (mean [SD] age, 64.8 [7.7] years; 247 Black [30.3%], 544 White [66.7%], 24 other [2.9%]) and 4379 without anemia (mean [SD] age, 63.0 [7.9] years; 629 Black [14.4%], 3603 White [82.3%], 147 other [3.4%]). Anemia corrected in a significantly greater proportion of testosterone-treated than placebo-treated men at 6 months (143 of 349 [41.0%] vs 103 of 375 [27.5%]), 12 months (152 of 338 [45.0%] vs 122 of 360 [33.9%]), 24 months (124 of 290 [42.8%] vs 95 of 307 [30.9%]), 36 months (94 of 216 [43.5%] vs 76 of 229 [33.2%]), and 48 months (41 of 92 [44.6%] vs 38 of 97 [39.2%]) (P = .002). Among participants without anemia, a significantly smaller proportion of testosterone-treated men developed anemia than placebo-treated men. Changes in hemoglobin were associated with changes in energy level.

Conclusions and Relevance

In middle-aged and older men with hypogonadism and anemia, TRT was more efficacious than placebo in correcting anemia. Among men who were not anemic, a smaller proportion of testosterone-treated men developed anemia than placebo-treated men.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03518034
Novel aminoacylases from Streptomyces griseus DSM 40236 and their recombinant production in Streptomyces lividans
Authors: Haeger Gerrit , Probst Johanna , Jaeger Karl‐Erich , Bongaerts Johannes , Siegert Petra
Published: October 2023

Amino acid‐based surfactants are valuable compounds for cosmetic formulations. The chemical synthesis of acyl amino acids is conventionally performed by the Schotten–Baumann reaction using fatty acyl chlorides, but aminoacylases have also been investigated for use in biocatalytic synthesis with free fatty acids. Aminoacylases and their properties are diverse; they belong to different peptidase families and show differences in substrate specificity and biocatalytic potential. Bacterial aminoacylases capable of synthesis have been isolated from Burkholderia, Mycolicibacterium, and Streptomyces. Although several proteases and peptidases from S. griseus have been described, no aminoacylases from this species have been identified yet. In this study, we investigated two novel enzymes produced by S. griseus DSM 40236T. We identified and cloned the respective genes and recombinantly expressed an α‐aminoacylase (EC3.5.1.14), designated SgAA, and an ε‐lysine acylase (EC3.5.1.17), designated SgELA, in S. lividans TK23. The purified aminoacylase SgAA was biochemically characterized, focusing on its hydrolytic activity to determine temperature‐ and pH optima and stabilities. The aminoacylase could hydrolyze various acetyl amino acids at the Nα‐position with a broad specificity regarding the sidechain. Substrates with longer acyl chains, like lauroyl amino acids, were hydrolyzed to a lesser extent. Purified aminoacylase SgELA specific for the hydrolysis of Nε‐acetyl‐l‐lysine was unstable and lost its enzymatic activity upon storage for a longer period but could initially be characterized. The pH optimum of SgELA was pH 8.0. While synthesis of acyl amino acids was not observed with SgELA, SgAA catalyzed the synthesis of lauroyl‐methionine.
Designing Advanced Polymeric Binders for High‐Performance Rechargeable Sodium Batteries
Authors: Li Zeheng , Wu Zhuoying , Wu Shuxing , Tang Weiting , Qiu Juncheng , Liu Tiefeng , Lin Zhan , Lu Jun
Published: October 2023

Supply restrictions and associated price increase of lithium limit the large‐scale application of rechargeable lithium batteries (RLBs) in electric energy storage. Rechargeable sodium batteries (RSBs) with the advantage of large abundance and low cost of sodium, are developed to relieve the supply pressure of RLBs. Binders serve as a bridge between active materials and other components to maintain electrode integrity and electrical contact; however, they have not been sufficiently explored in RSBs. In this review, the working mechanism of binders for RSBs is proposed and more desirable features of RSB binders than their RLB counterparts are emphasized. The development history and recent progress of binders for RSBs are outlined. It is highlighted that the matching principles of binders to different electrode materials are proposed. Advanced characterization and simulation techniques are presented to interpret the electrochemical findings and reveal the working mechanism of novel binders in various electrodes of RSBs. Finally, perspectives on the development of effective binders for RSBs are presented.
Exploring the High‐Temperature Window of Operation for Organic Photovoltaics: A Combined Experimental and Simulations Study
Authors: Negash Asfaw , Hustings Jeroen , Robert Allyson , Genene Zewdneh , Yilma Desalegn , Schreurs Dieter , Mathijs Michiel , Liesenborgs Jori , Van Reeth Frank , Vandewal Koen , Mammo Wendimagegn , Admassie Shimelis , Maes Wouter , Manca Jean V.
Published: October 2023

The global climate change negatively affects the photovoltaic performance of traditional solar cell technologies. This article investigates the potential of organic photovoltaics (OPV) for high‐temperature environments, ranging from urban hot summers (30—40 °C) and desert regions (65 °C) up to (aero) space conditions (130 °C), the thermal window in which OPV can operate. The approach is based on a combination of experiments and simulations up to 180 °C, moving significantly beyond the conventional temperature ranges reported in the literature. New 2H‐benzo[d][1,2,3]triazole‐5,6‐dicarboxylic imide‐based copolymers with decomposition onset temperatures above 340 °C are used for this study, in combination with non‐fullerene acceptors. Contrary to their inorganic counterparts, OPV devices show a positive temperature coefficient up to ≈90 °C. At temperatures of 150 °C, they are still operational, retaining their room temperature efficiency. Complementary simulations are performed using an in‐house developed software package that numerically solves the drift‐diffusion equations to understand the general trends in the obtained current–voltage characteristics and the materials’ intrinsic behavior as a function of temperature. The presented methodology of combined high‐temperature experiments and simulations can be further applied to investigate the thermal window of operation for other OPV material systems, opening novel high‐temperature application routes.
Disorder‐Controlled Efficient Doping of Conjugated Polymers for High‐Performance Organic Thermoelectrics
Authors: Kim Jimin , Ju Duckhyun , Kim Seunghyun , Cho Kilwon
Published: October 2023

Molecular doping of conjugated polymers (CPs) is critical to improve their electrical properties in organic thermoelectric materials, which are promising candidates for low‐temperature energy harvesting and self‐powered sensors. Because excessive dopants are used in the doping process, securing highly crystalline CPs by suppressing dopant‐induced disorder is crucial. Recently, tris(pentafluorophenyl)borane (BCF) has attracted interest as a strong Brønsted acid dopant that enables efficient integer charge transfer by forming a complex with water. However, the crystalline ordering of BCF‐doped CPs has not been properly controlled; the resultant thermoelectric performance is therefore still lower than other p‐doped CPs prepared by conventional redox doping. Here, an efficient doping strategy is proposed with BCF to attain highly doped CPs with dramatically suppressed structural and energetic disorder. In a non‐polar aliphatic solvent, hexane, BCF can effectively diffuse into poly[2,5‐bis(3‐tetradecylthiophen‐2‐yl)thieno[3,2‐b]thiophene] (PBTTT) via sequential doping, leading to remarkable electrical conductivity and power factor of 230 S cm−1 and 140 µW m−1 K−2, respectively. In addition, sequentially doped films exhibit highly delocalized transport characteristics owing to the low degree of charge carrier localization within their high solid‐state ordering. The results provide an approach for disorder‐tolerant doping strategies with a systematic investigation of structure–property relationships in highly doped CPs.
PopTouch: A Submillimeter Thick Dynamically Reconfigured Haptic Interface with Pressable Buttons
Authors: Firouzeh Amir , Mizutani Ayana , Groten Jonas , Zirkl Martin , Shea Herbert
Published: October 2023

The interactions with touchscreens rely heavily on vision: The virtual buttons and virtual sliders on a touchscreen provide no mechanical sense of the object they seek to represent. This work presents PopTouch: a 500 µm thick flexible haptic display that creates pressable physical buttons on demand. PopTouch can be mounted directly on touchscreens or any other smooth surface, flat, or curved. The buttons of PopTouch are independently controlled hydraulically amplified electrostatic zipping taxels (tactile pixels) that generate 1.5 mm of out of plane displacement. When pressed by the user, the buttons provide intuitive mechanical feedback thanks to a snap‐through characteristic in their force‐displacement profile. The snap‐through threshold can be as high as 4 N, and is tuned by design and actuation parameters. This work presents two versions of PopTouch: a transparent PopTouch for integration on Touchscreens with built‐in touch sensing, such as smartphones and a sensorized PopTouch, with embedded thin‐film piezoelectric sensors on each taxel, for integration on substrates without built‐in touch sensing, such as a steering wheel. PopTouch adds static and vibrating button‐like haptics to any device thanks to its thin profile, flexibility, low power consumption (6 mW per button), rapid refresh rate (2 Hz), and freely configured array format.
Multi‐Layered Triboelectric Nanogenerators with Controllable Multiple Spikes for Low‐Power Artificial Synaptic Devices
Authors: Park Yong‐Jin , Ro Yun Goo , Shin Young‐Eun , Park Cheolhong , Na Sangyun , Chang Yoojin , Ko Hyunhyub
Published: October 2023

In the domains of wearable electronics, robotics, and the Internet of Things, there is a demand for devices with low power consumption and the capability of multiplex sensing, memory, and learning. Triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) offer remarkable versatility in this regard, particularly when integrated with synaptic transistors that mimic biological synapses. However, conventional TENGs, generating only two spikes per cycle, have limitations when used in synaptic devices requiring repetitive high‐frequency gating signals to perform various synaptic plasticity functions. Herein, a multi‐layered micropatterned TENG (M‐TENG) consisting of a polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) film and a composite film that includes 1H,1H,2H,2H‐perfluorooctyltrichlorosilane/BaTiO3/PDMS are proposed. The M‐TENG generates multiple spikes from a single touch by utilizing separate triboelectric charges at the multiple friction layers, along with a contact/separation delay achieved by distinct spacers between layers. This configuration allows the maximum triboelectric output charge of M‐TENG to reach up to 7.52 nC, compared to 3.69 nC for a single‐layered TENG. Furthermore, by integrating M‐TENGs with an organic electrochemical transistor, the spike number multiplication property of M‐TENGs is leveraged to demonstrate an artificial synaptic device with low energy consumption. As a proof‐of‐concept application, a robotic hand is operated through continuous memory training under repeated stimulations, successfully emulating long‐term plasticity.
Delivering decision making support to people with cognitive disability—What more has been learned from pilot programmes in Australia and internationally from 2016 to 2021?
Authors: Then Shih‐Ning , Duffy Julia , Bigby Christine , Sinclair Craig , Wiesel Ilan , Carney Terry , Douglas Jacinta
Published: October 2023

Article 12 of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities has been instrumental in driving the development of the concept and practice of supported decision making. An important feature has been the development of “supported decision making pilots.” This paper identifies, describes and analyses pilot programmes providing support for decision making for people with cognitive disabilities in Australia and internationally between 2016 and 2021. It finds that challenges included providing support for socially isolated people and adequately resourcing those programmes. However, most pilots reported positive outcomes for decision makers, adding to the evidence base for claims to be made about the positive impact of supported decision making on the lives of people with disabilities. The pilots demonstrate that, internationally, there is an emerging set of programmes that seek to promote supported decision making incrementally through developing focussed community awareness and practice. While still small‐scale, time‐limited and experimental, with different levels of rigour in practice and evaluation, they provide some foundation and a preliminary evidence base for larger interventions and reforms in the future.
Development of sensitive spectrofluorometric approach based on formation of pyrrolidone derivative for determination of linagliptin through condensation reaction with ninhydrin and phenylacetaldehyde: Application to content uniformity and real plasma
Authors: El‐Gizawy Samia M. , Atia Noha N. , Rushdy Doaa H. , Ali Marwa F. B.
Published: October 2023

The new drug linagliptin belongs to the class of dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 enzyme inhibitors. Linagliptin is used to treat type 2 diabetes and is taken orally either alone or in combination with other drugs. In this instance, a new, simple, and economical technique for analyzing linagliptin was developed by the effective use of a pyrrolidone derivative. The primary amine group of linagliptin permits its condensation with ninhydrin (0.14% w/v) to produce a fluorescent product in the presence of phenylacetaldehyde (0.02% v/v). All experimental parameters were carefully examined and adjusted in order to monitor the generation of the pyrrolidone derivative at excitation and emission wavelengths of 385 and 475 nm, respectively. The calibration graph was made by plotting the intensity of the fluorescence in relation to linagliptin concentration. A significant linearity was found for values ranging from 20 to 460 ng/mL. The process's validity has been verified by a thorough assessment of the instructions provided by the International Conference on Harmonization (ICH). The results indicate excellent uniformity with a reference method, showing that there is no substantial difference in precision and accuracy. The proposed approach was utilized for determining linagliptin in real rat plasma successfully owing to its high sensitivity. Additionally, the proposed approach was evaluated using the Eco‐Scale evaluation tool and showed a high degree of eco‐friendliness (86/100).
Mitral valve‐in‐valve with 4D intracardiac echocardiography: Procedural and imaging technique
Authors: Wong Ningyan , Fowler Dale , Lim D. Scott
Published: October 2023

Transcatheter mitral valve‐in‐valve (ViV) has emerged as a safe and effective therapeutic option for patients with a degenerated mitral bioprosthesis. As procedural techniques mature and operator experience improve, there is a push to adopt a “minimalist” approach of using conscious sedation instead of general anesthesia for faster recovery. The heavy reliance on fluoroscopy for ViV deployment makes feasible the use of intracardiac echocardiography (ICE) instead of transesophageal echocardiography for other procedural imaging requirements. We hereby use a case example to illustrate a step‐by‐step approach of using four‐dimensional ICE to guide transcatheter mitral ViV under conscious sedation.
The comparison between the novel technique and conventional method in the catheter ablation of premature ventricular contractions originating from the free wall of tricuspid annulus
Authors: Chen Mingxian , Wang Songyun , Zhu Tongjian , Li Xuping , Wu Zhihong , Liu Qiming , Zhou Shenghua
Published: October 2023

Background

This study aimed to assess the safety and effectiveness of a novel technique for catheter ablation in patients with premature ventricular contraction (PVC) from the free wall of tricuspid annulus (TV).

Hypothesis

We hypothesized that the novel technique is more efficacious than the traditional approach.

Methods

We retrospectively investigated 59 consecutive patients with PVC originating from the free wall of TV between January 2013 and November 2021. The patients were divided into two groups: the reversed S‐curve technique group (RST, n = 26) and the reversed C‐curve technique group (RCT, n = 33). The RST under the support of a steerable sheath was used in RST group, while the RCT under the support of a nonsteerable sheath was used in the RCT group. Systematic mapping and radiofrequency ablation were preferentially performed under the valve in all patients.

Results

Compared to the RCT group, total procedural time and fluoroscopic exposure time were significantly shorter in RST group. Two patients experienced cardiac tamponade in the RCT group, while no complications were observed in RST group (p = .498). The success rate was significantly higher in RST group compared to RCT group (81.9% vs. 100%, p = .029). Three patients in RCT group failed to ablate during the operation but were successfully ablated using the novel method. During regular follow‐up, no patients in the RST group had a recurrence, while three patients in the RCT group did (p = .274).

Conclusions

It suggests that the reserved S‐curve technique, supported by a steerable sheath, is a feasible and effective method for ablating PVC originating from the free wall of TV.
Corporate governance perspective on environmental reporting: Literature review and future research agenda
Authors: Aluchna Maria , Roszkowska‐Menkes Maria , Khan Sana
Published: October 2023

The last three decades have witnessed substantial growth in the literature exploring the motives and drivers of corporate greening. Extant research analyzing the governance determinants of corporate environmental disclosure provides competing and contrasting results; despite the growing sustainability challenges create an urgent need for effective monitoring and incentive mechanisms to promote corporate transparency and accountability. This warrants further inquiry in the field, yet very few comprehensive reviews have been presented on governance determinants of corporate environmental disclosure. To fill this gap we conduct a systematic review of 121 published papers and distinguish the governance mechanisms fostering corporate environmental disclosure. Our paper identifies factors influencing the adoption, extant, and quality of environmental disclosure, and provides useful future research directions.
Effect of a V‐shaped canyon on the seismic response of a bridge under oblique incident SH waves
Authors: Zhang Ning , Wang Lin , Zhang Yu , Lu Haijun , Dai Denghui , Cai Guojun , Gao Yufeng
Published: October 2023

To elucidate the effect of canyon topography on dynamic response of a bridge, an analytical model for a simply supported bridge crossing a symmetric or non‐symmetric V‐shaped canyon in an elastic half‐space under SH waves is proposed. An exact solution to the dynamic canyon‐bridge interaction problem is derived using wave function expansion and verified by its comparison with past exact solution for a sole bridge model without a canyon. The wave propagation in the half‐space, wave scattering by the canyon and wave radiation from the bridge are all taken into account rigorously. Through a systematical parametrical study, it is found that the seismic response of the bridge beam and the wave‐facing side foundation will be significantly amplified. The degree of the topographic amplification is closely related to the geometry of the canyon, the mass and the stiffness of the bridge beam, and the frequency content and angle of the incident wave. The potential adverse effects of a V‐shaped canyon on a bridge should be considered in its seismic design.
Polymerase chain reaction‐positivity and predictors for SARS‐CoV‐2 infection among diagnosed cases' in North West Ethiopia
Authors: Kebede Fassikaw , Kebede Tsehay
Published: October 2023

Background

The lack of sophisticated diagnosing equipment for polymerase chain reaction (PCR) during the incidence of variant types of COVID‐19 underestimates the morbidity and mortality patterns of this pandemic. Thus, this study aimed to estimate seropositive and confirmatory predictors for COVID‐19 suspected and tested cases through polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) in two diagnosing

Methods

A facility‐based descriptive cross‐sectional study was employed among COVID‐19 suspected cases from January 2, 2022, to June 9, 2022. The data were collected both using a structured interviewees and nasopharyngeal (NP) swabs. The nasal swab (NS) was analyzed in the laboratory for RNA detection of the virus using PCR. The collected data were entered into Epi Data version 4.2 and then exported to STATA (SE) version R‐14 software for further analysis. multivariable logistic regression was used to assess the associated risk

Results

A total of 285 suspected cases have participated in this study. The overall mean (±SD) age of the participants was 37.5 (±18.5) years. The majority, 174 (61.1%) of the tested groups were symptomatic when diagnosed. The positivity of RT‐PCR for suspected and COVID‐19 diagnosed cases were confirmed in 62/285 (21.75%). In multivariable analysis, they were aged 26–50 years (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 4.2, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.5–10.75), had comorbidity (AOR = 5.8; 95% CI = 2.1–12.2), and cigarette smokers (AOR = 13.5; 95% CI = 5.3–36.6) were significantly associated with developing COVID‐19 infection.

Conclusion

More than two in every nine suspected cases were positive RT‐PCR tests, and the infectivity of COVID‐19 was significantly associated with age 25–50 years, comorbidities, and cigarette smoking. The deployment of high‐quality diagnostic kits like RT‐PCR is crucial for the early detection and risk stratification of suspected cases.
Introducing a stratified vertical gravel tube subsurface drip system under different irrigation regimes for pistachio: Growth, yield and water productivity
Authors: Tavakoli Ali Reza , Sepaskhah Ali Reza , Hokmabadi Hossein
Published: October 2023

High evapotranspiration and low precipitation are known as the main challenging factors for pistachio (Pistacia vera L.) orchards situated in arid and semi‐arid regions. Therefore, it is necessary to take some measures to mitigate surface evaporation. This study was carried out to assess water productivity (WP) as well as yield and annual shoot growth of pistachios using a new method of irrigation known as the stratified vertical gravel tube subsurface drip irrigation (SVGTSD) system in a 15‐year‐old pistachio orchard in an arid region in Iran. In this system, each tree contained four vertical gravel columns with different lengths. A randomized complete block design with a split‐plot arrangement with three replicates (five trees in each plot) for 3 years was used. Three irrigation regimes included 100% crop evapotranspiration (100% ETc), 85% ETc and 70% ETc (as the main plots), and seven vertical gravel column with a depth arrangement of 40–40–40–40 cm (using a gravel column from the lateral pipe level and without a gravel tube as the control) and gravel‐filled tubes with depths of 10–10–10–10 cm, 10–10–20–20 cm, 10–10–30–30 cm, 10–10–20–30 cm, 10–10–20–40 cm and 10–10–20–50 cm (all 30 cm below ground level) (as subplots) were used. The results showed that the different depths of gravel tube placement significantly affected the annual shoot growth and yield. The deeper the tube was placed, the greater the yield and annual shoot growth, resulting in 10–10–20–50 cm being the most productive. Regarding tree growth, yield and WP, the best performance was observed at full irrigation (100% ETc) with a 10–10–20–50‐cm vertical gravel tube arrangement. Furthermore, in this subsurface irrigation method, there was no concern regarding emitter clogging by roots, root accumulation around the emitters or root intrusion into the emitters. In addition, having a low additional cost (only 13.9%) in comparison with conventional subsurface drip irrigation together with a higher yield (3475 kg ha−1), WP (0.9 kg m−3) and shoot growth (35 cm), SVGTSD is more economical and feasible compared to other irrigation methods and can be extensively applied in pistachio orchards.
The Use of Δ Osmolality to Predict Serum Isopropanol and Acetone Concentrations
Authors: Monaghan Michael S. , Ackerman Bruce H. , Olsen Keith M. , Farmer Charles , Pappas Alexandras A.
Published: October 2023

We investigated whether serum Δ osmolality will predict the total serum concentration of isopropanol and acetone metabolite. Three isopropanol ingestions were monitored by Δ osmolality determinations followed by quantification of serum isopropanol and acetone concentrations. The Δ osmolality was established by routine chemical analysis and standard freezing point depression osmometry. Serum isopropanol and acetone levels were quantified by gas chromatography‐head space analysis (GC‐HS). Patients were initially suspected of having isopropanol intoxication secondary to an elevated Δ osmolality discrepancy (measured ‐ calculated > 10 mOsm). Serum concentrations versus Δ osmolality were analyzed by linear regression (correlation coefficient r=0.713; p<0.05). The Δ osmolality paralleled and decreased relative to the total low molecular weight of volatile concentration in each case. In emergencies, Δ osmolality may be a screening test to identify rapidly patients at risk for complications associated with isopropanol ingestion when GC‐HS is not available.
Performance of an Electrocardiographic Analysis System: Implications for Pharmacodynamic Studies
Authors: Hoon Timothy J.
Published: October 2023

The performance of a digital data‐acquisition and ‐analysis system in measuring cardiac complex intervals was compared with manual measurements in 10 healthy subjects. A data set of 500 cardiac complexes was created from lead II electrocardiographic samples from each subject. Intervals were measured to the nearest 5 msec by hand and to the nearest 1 msec by the analysis system. Automated measurements of the RR interval and QRS duration exhibited no bias and median absolute errors of 3 msec. Measurements of the PR interval exhibited a significant bias (18 msec) that accounted for the majority of the imprecision (19 msec). A small but significant bias (4 msec) was found in the measurement of the QT duration with a median absolute error of 12 msec. The traditional method of averaging the values of 10 consecutive complexes provided results similar to individual complex measurements. The automated analysis of cardiac intervals can produce data that are suitable for pharmacodynamic studies.