bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Theropod dinosaurs had primate‐like numbers of telencephalic neurons
Authors: Herculano‐Houzel Suzana
Published: January 2023

Understanding the neuronal composition of the brains of dinosaurs and other fossil amniotes would offer fundamental insight into their behavioral and cognitive capabilities, but brain tissue is only rarely fossilized. However, when the bony brain case is preserved, the volume and therefore mass of the brain can be estimated with computer tomography; and if the scaling relationship between brain mass and numbers of neurons for the clade is known, that relationship can be applied to estimate the neuronal composition of the brain. Using a recently published database of numbers of neurons in the telencephalon of extant sauropsids (birds, squamates, and testudines), here I show that the neuronal scaling rules that apply to these animals can be used to infer the numbers of neurons that composed the telencephalon of dinosaur, pterosaur, and other fossil sauropsid species. The key to inferring numbers of telencephalic neurons in these species is first using the relationship between their estimated brain and body mass to determine whether bird‐like (endothermic) or squamate‐like (ectothermic) rules apply to each fossil sauropsid species. This procedure shows that the notion of “mesothermy” in dinosaurs is an artifact due to the mixing of animals with bird‐like and squamate‐like scaling, and indicates that theropods such as Tyrannosaurus and Allosaurus were endotherms with baboon‐ and monkey‐like numbers of telencephalic neurons, respectively, which would make these animals not only giant but also long‐lived and endowed with flexible cognition, and thus even more magnificent predators than previously thought.
Gallium(III) Amide Corroles: DNA Interaction and Photodynamic Activity in Cancer Cells
Authors: Li Meng‐Yuan , Yang Wu , Cen Jing‐He , Liu Ling‐Gui , Yang Gang , Liu Hai‐Yang , Liao Yu‐Hui , Zhong Xi‐Hao
Published: January 2023

A series of gallium(III) amide corroles including meso‐5,15‐bis(pentafluorophenyl)‐10‐(4‐Pyridinamide‐phenyl)corrole gallium (III) (1‐Ga), meso‐5,15‐bis(pentafluorophenyl)‐10‐(4‐Furamide‐phenyl)corrole gallium(III) (2‐Ga) and meso‐5,15‐bis(pentafluorophenyl)‐10‐(4‐Thiophenamide‐phenyl)corrole gallium(III) (3‐Ga) were synthesized. The interaction of these complexes with DNA and their photodynamic antitumor activities have been studied. UV spectra titration showed that these gallium(III) corroles interact with calf thymus DNA (CT‐DNA) through an external binding mode. All three gallium(III) corroles can effectively generate singlet oxygen under illumination and have good photostability. Among the three gallium(III) corroles, 2‐Ga exhibited excellent photodynamic antitumor activity against the tested tumor cell lines under light irradiation (625±2 nm, 0.3 mW/cm2, 1.08 J/cm2). The best phototoxicity was observed by 2‐Ga against HepG2 cells (IC50=6.3±0.9), which is even better than temoporfin (IC50=8.4±1.8). It could block HepG2 cells in the sub‐G0 phase and effectively induce apoptosis of HepG2 cells under 625 nm light irradiation.
Exosome‐derived circTFDP2 promotes prostate cancer progression by preventing PARP1 from caspase‐3‐dependent cleavage
Authors: Ding Lifeng , Zheng Qiming , Lin Yudong , Wang Ruyue , Wang Huan , Luo Wenqin , Lu Zeyi , Xie Haiyun , Ren Liangliang , Lu Haohua , Yu Chenhao , Zhang Jixuan , Shen Danyang , Cheng Sheng , Xia Liqun , Li Gonghui , Xue Dingwei
Published: January 2023

Background

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) have been reported to play a significant role in tumorigenesis. However, the detailed function of circRNA in prostate cancer (PCa) is still largely unknown.

Methods

We quantified circTFDP2 expression in PCa tissues and adjacent normal tissues using quantitative reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR). Colony formation, Cell Counting Kit‐8 (CCK‐8), flow cytometry, transwell, and in vivo progression and metastasis assays were applied to reveal the proliferation and metastatic abilities of circTFDP2 in PCa cells. Mass spectrometry, RNA pulldown, RNA‐immunoprecipitation (RIP), western blotting and immunofluorescence were used for the mechanistic studies. qRT‐PCR and RIP assays were used to explore the regulatory role of eIF4A3 in the biogenesis of circTFDP2. Finally, functional assays showed the effect of circTFDP2‐containing exosomes on PCa cell progression.

Results

circTFDP2 was upregulated in PCa tissues compared with adjacent normal tissues. Furthermore, high circTFDP2 expression was positively correlated with the Gleason score. Functionally, circTFDP2 promoted PCa cell proliferation and metastasis both in vivo and in vitro. Mechanistically, circTFDP2 interacted with poly(ADP‐ribose) polymerase 1 (PARP1) protein in its DNA‐binding domain to prevent it from active caspase‐3‐dependent cleavage, and finally relieved PCa cells from DNA damage. In addition, RNA‐binding protein eIF4A3 can interact with the flanking region of circTFDP2 and promote the biogenesis of circTFDP2. Moreover, exosome‐derived circTFDP2 promoted PCa cell progression.

Conclusions

In general, our study demonstrated that circTFDP2 promoted PCa cell progression through the PARP1/DNA damage axis, which may be a promising therapeutic target for PCa.
(Not) far from home: No sex bias in dispersal, but limited genetic patch size, in an endangered species, the Spotted Turtle (Clemmys guttata)
Authors: Liebgold Eric B. , Dickey Myra J. , Lamb Stephanie M. , Howell Hunter J. , Ransom Tami S.
Published: January 2023

Sex‐biased dispersal is common in many animals, with male‐biased dispersal often found in studies of mammals and reptiles, including interpretations of spatial genetic structure, ostensibly as a result of male–male competition and a lack of male parental care. Few studies of sex‐biased dispersal have been conducted in turtles, but a handful of studies, in saltwater turtles and in terrestrial turtles, have detected male‐biased dispersal as expected. We tested for sex‐biased dispersal in the endangered freshwater turtle, the spotted turtle (Clemmys guttata) by investigating fine‐scale genetic spatial structure of males and females. We found significant spatial genetic structure in both sexes, but the patterns mimicked each other. Both males and females typically had higher than expected relatedness at distances <25 km, and in many distance classes greater than 25 km, less than expected relatedness. Similar patterns were apparent whether we used only loci in Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium (n = 7) or also included loci with potential null alleles (n = 5). We conclude that, contrary to expectations, sex‐biased dispersal is not occurring in this species, possibly related to the reverse sexual dimorphism in this species, with females having brighter colors. We did, however, detect significant spatial genetic structure in males and females, separate and combined, showing philopatry within a genetic patch size of <25 km in C. guttata, which is concerning for an endangered species whose populations are often separated by distances greater than the genetic patch size.
Promoting ecodesign implementation: The role and development areas of national public policy
Authors: Horn Susanna , Salo Hanna , Nissinen Ari
Published: January 2023

The European Parliament adopted the Circular Economy Action Plan in 2021, with which it identifies the importance of the design phase to improve products' circularity and environmental impacts. With an environmental design approach – ecodesign – companies can proactively reduce, avoid, or eliminate adverse environmental impacts that occur during the life cycle of a product. However, the practical implementation of ecodesign is not widely studied, hence, there is little evidence indicating a comprehensive or structured use of ecodesign in companies. Moreover, current policies are not considered as sufficient to promote the systematic use of the concept. This research studies company views on drivers and barriers of ecodesign, its practical implementation means, and compiles the most important development areas for the public sector to support ecodesign implementation in companies. Based on our study, the key drivers and barriers relate to company values, customer demand, tools, information, competition, regulations, and standards, reflecting both internal and external factors. With regard to implementation, ecodesign has been a systemic and continuous activity in companies, ranging from products and services to processes and marketing, but often with no dedicated resources. Subsequently, the key development areas for public policy are the establishment of stable and predictable regulations; provision of clear and structured information; provision of ecodesign tools supporting decision‐making and which are easily available for different purposes and sectors. These mutually supportive areas are important for promoting ecodesign more systemically. In future policy actions, it would be important to further introduce interlinkages and synergies between various policy tools.
Safety and efficacy of MitraClip in acutely ill (NYHA Class IV) patients with mitral regurgitation: Results from the global EXPAND study
Authors: Shuvy Mony , von Bardeleben Ralph Stephan , Grasso Carmelo , Raake Philip , Lurz Philipp , Zamorano Jose L. , Asch Federico , Kar Saibal , Maisano Francesco ,   EXPAND Investigators
Published: January 2023

Aim

Patients with severe mitral regurgitation (MR) and acute heart failure (HF) have refractory symptoms without adequate response to medical therapy. The objective of this analysis was to assess the impact of the MitraClip device in acutely ill HF patients, characterized by NYHA Class IV at baseline, in a real‐world, contemporary setting.

Methods and results

EXPAND was a prospective, multicenter, international study enrolling patients with MR who consented to receive the MitraClip System at 57 sites globally. The study outcomes included acute procedural success (APS), quality of life, heart failure hospitalizations (HFH), and all‐cause mortality. The study population comprised 1,041 patients, with 118 patients having baseline NYHA Class IV, and 922 having baseline NYHA Class I/II/III. NYHA Class IV patients had a significantly higher rate of baseline co‐morbidities and secondary MR aetiology compared with NYHA Class I/II/III patients. APS was achieved in 92.4% of NYHA Class IV patients and significant improvement in MR grade to ≤Mild (1+) in 90.7% of subjects at 30 days and 92.9% at 1 year was observed. 1‐year‐mortality was higher in the NYHA Class IV subjects compared with the NYHA Class I/II/III subjects (29.2% vs. 17.7%, P < 0.01). Significant improvement in functional capacity assessed by NYHA Functional Class and Quality of Life assessed through KCCQ score was observed. At 1 year, 72.6% of NYHA Class IV subjects improved to NYHA Class I/II and ΔKCCQ was 31.2 (24.1, 38.3) compared with baseline.

Conclusion

In the prospective, real‐world EXPAND study, MitraClip in patients with severe MR and NYHA Class IV was found to be safe and effective in treating MR, and significantly improving QoL and long‐term clinical outcomes.
Tissue‐resident memory T (TRM) cells: Front‐line workers of the immune system
Authors: Osman Maleika , Park Simone L. , Mackay Laura K.
Published: January 2023

Tissue‐resident memory T (TRM) cells play a vital role in local immune protection against infection and cancer. The location of TRM cells within peripheral tissues at sites of pathogen invasion allows for the rapid detection and elimination of microbes, making their generation an attractive goal for the development of next‐generation vaccines. Here, we discuss differential requirements for CD8+ TRM cell development across tissues with implications for establishing local prophylactic immunity, emphasizing the role of tissue‐derived factors, local antigen, and adjuvants on TRM cell generation in the context of vaccination.
CoxP/Hollow Porous C3N4as Highly Efficient Schottky Contact Photocatalyst for H2Evolution from Water Splitting
Authors: Zhang Jiadong , Zhang Lijing , Mao Chen , Gu Ruilong , Wang Wei , Wang Yuxin , Zhou Ziyan , Yan Bin , Bi Lingling , Fu Qiuyan , Zhu Yiyao
Published: January 2023

Photocatalytic water splitting to obtain hydrogen energy can transform low‐density solar to high density, new and clean energy in a clean way, which is one of the ideal ways to solve the energy crisis and environmental pollution. In this paper, The CoxP/hollow porous C3N4composite photocatalytic material was synthesized by simple methods. The photocatalytic hydrogen production rate of CoxP/hollow porous C3N4reaches 1602 μmol g−1 h−1, which is 151 times of that of pure C3N4. The reasons for the high photocatalytic H2evolution activity of CoxP/hollow porous C3N4could be summarized as follows: (1) the hollow and porous structure of C3N4shows higher light capture efficiency, larger specific surface area and more surface active sites. (2) metalloid CoxP loaded forms the Schottky contact with C3N4, which improves the photogenerated charges separation efficiency of C3N4, prolongs the photogenerated charges lifetime and improves the photocatalytic H2evolution activity of C3N4. (3) The higher conductivity of metalloid CoxP and the lower overpotential of hydrogen production are other reasons for the higher activity of photocatalytic hydrogen production of CoxP/hollow porous C3N4. This work provides an important role for the design of efficient, stable, and efficient construction of photocatalysts for solar energy conversion.
Lewis Acid‐Assisted Molybdenum(VI) Complexes with S, N‐bidentate Ligands to Reduce Nitrate
Authors: Lang Jia‐Jia , Mi Pengbing , Wang Xiao‐Juan , Gao Shu‐Qin , Tan Xiangshi , Lin Ying‐Wu
Published: January 2023

Two readily‐accessible molybdenum complexes with low sterically hindered S, N‐bidentate ligands were designed for the reduction of nitrate to nitrite. The Lewis acid Sc(III) acted as a significant co‐catalyst to enhance the catalytic efficiency by activating the N−O bond of nitrate. This study indicates that molybdenum complexes in cooperation with a Lewis acid offer functional Mo‐catalyst systems, which present functional artificial models of the natural molybdenum enzymes.
Carpet Beater Molecules: Synthesis and Characterization of Functional Hexa‐peri‐benzocoronene–Alkyne Coupling Products
Authors: Müller Johannes , Buck Janina , Hirsch Andreas
Published: January 2023

Within the scope of this paper, nine π‐expanded mono‐substituted 5,8,11,14,17‐pentakis‐(tert‐butyl)‐hexa‐peri‐hexabenzocoronenes (HBC) are introduced. 2‐Iodo‐5,8,11,14,17‐pentakis‐(tert‐butyl)‐hexa‐peri‐hexabenzocoronene served as precursor and was reacted with ethynyltrimethylsilane in a Sonogashira coupling reaction. The acetylene unit is used as a linker and can undergo another Sonogashira coupling reaction combining different phenyl coupling partners with the HBC core. The electron‐withdrawing groups such as nitrile, pyridine and carbonyl species (aldehyde, methylester, carboxylic acid) as well as the three quinoxaline based species (diphenylquinoxaline, dibenzo[a,c]phenazine, phenanthro[4’,5’‐a,b,c]phenazine) serve as substitution moieties. Their influence on the optoelectronic properties were investigated by UV/Vis absorption spectroscopy demonstrating a maximum redshift of 7 nm compared to starting compound 2‐Iodo‐5,8,11,14,17‐pentakis‐(tert‐butyl) HBC. As for the phenanthro[4’,5’‐a,b,c]phenazine substituted HBC a dramatic decrease in the intensity of the absorption of the UV/Vis spectrum was observed. The fluorescence spectroscopy pointed out that the dibenzo[a,c]phenazine and phenanthro[4’,5’‐a,b,c]phenazine substitution changed the spectra to one broad peak departing from the characteristic HBC‐like emission pattern.
Rapid evaluation of structural soundness of steel frames using a coupling coefficient (CC)‐based method
Authors: Shen Shao‐Dong , Kurata Masahiro
Published: January 2023

A method is proposed for evaluating the post‐earthquake condition of steel frame structures based on the coupling coefficient (CC). The CC is an index that reflects the internal force distribution of each storey and damage mechanism in frames. It is computed using the drift distribution of the maximum structural response estimated from limited monitoring data and the design drawings of the target structure. Preliminary finite element analyses showed that the CC contains some important information that is not obvious in displacement responses, such as the global and local working modes of the structure. Useful information of this type includes whether the damage to each storey is mainly distributed on the beams or columns. An incremental dynamic analysis with an 18‐storey steel frame tested at the E‐Defense shaking table facility confirmed that the structural condition identified by the CC‐based method corresponds to the damage information reported by visual inspection. The analysis results verify the theory of the CC‐based method and provide limit values for the damage grades of steel frames.
Analysis of fractional Navier–Stokes equations
Authors: Jafari Hossein , Zair Muslim Yusif , Jassim Hassan Kamil
Published: January 2023

In this study, we apply the fractional Laplace variational iteration method (FLVIM), a computer methodology for exploring fractional Navier–Stokes equation solutions. In light of the theory of fixed points and Banach spaces, this paper also explores the uniqueness and convergence of the solution of general fractional differential equations obtained by the suggested method. In addition, the fractional Laplace variational iteration method solution's error analysis is covered. The computational technique also clearly demonstrates the validity and dependability of the suggested method for solving fractional Navier‐Stokes equations. Furthermore, the obtained solutions are a perfect fit with previously established solutions.
Time‐dependent pressure‐driven flow in a horizontal cylinder filled with a bidisperse porous material
Authors: Jha Basant K. , Musa Muhammad K. , Yusuf Kabir L.
Published: January 2023

Some properties of time‐dependent that modify Brinkman equations for fluid flow in a cylindrical tube filled with Bidisperse Porous Material are discussed in this article. The fluid velocities through the fracture and porous phases of the Bidisperse Porous Medium (BDPM) resulting from the application of pressure gradient are described by two coupled second‐order partial differential equations. Laplace transform technique, D'Alembert and Riemann‐Sum Approximation Methods are used to obtain a semianalytical solution for the model. The choice of the D'Alembert is made to systematically decouple the coupled governing equations without altering their initial orders. The role of the coupling parameter: The coefficient of momentum transfer in the flow formation is considered. Accordingly, three cases are analyzed: (a) weak coupling which described the fluid flow in the absence of the coupling parameter, (b) the strong coupling resulting from a large value of the coupling parameter , and (c) fluid momentum for any arbitrary value of . It is observed that fluid stability is attained when and are decreased; a finding that agrees with the findings of Nield and Kuznetsov and Magyari. Also, the maximum velocity in the fracture phase of the BDPM is attained when the coefficient of momentum transfer is neglected while an opposing flow formation is demonstrated in the fracture and porous phases of BDPM as is increased.
Two‐phase modeling of evaporation characteristics of ethanol droplet under force‐convection environment
Authors: Mazumder Numan Siddique , Lingfa Pradip , Giri Asis
Published: January 2023

Studies on the evaporation phenomenon of a pure ethanol droplet have been mostly confined to the semianalytical modeling in stagnant ambient. Investigation into this aspect in a convective environment by considering the Navier–Stokes equation is also minimal. Hence, in this study we analyze and investigate the evaporation characteristics of a single‐component spherical‐shaped isolated pure ethanol droplet under force convective air environment by considering both gas‐ and liquid‐phase motions, nonunitary Lewis number in the interface, variable Stefan flow (blowing) effect, and the transient droplet heating. The finite difference method is utilized while solving the governing equations of the spherical polar coordinate system for species, momentum, and energy transfer. The maximum Reynolds number and ambient temperature are kept at 100 and 600 K, respectively. The present work is validated by comparing the normalized surface regression curve of the droplet with the earlier experimental and theoretical results. Using the current simulated data, flow and temperature profiles of both gas and liquid regions are visualized in streamline and isotherm contour plots at various instants of time. It is observed that at a moderate Reynolds number a detached vortex forms at the downstream location of the droplet. However, the detachment length increases with time. The temperature gradients along the droplet surface are observed at the initial stage. Moreover, the heat‐up period occupies about 20% of the total lifetime of the droplet. The droplet life and heat‐up period decrease with an increase in free‐stream velocity. In addition, the saturation temperature increases with ambient temperature.
Using weight of evidence to assess degradation potential of UVCB hydrocarbon solvents
Authors: Prosser Christopher M. , Davis Craig W. , Bragin Gail E. , Camenzuli Louise
Published: January 2023

Hydrocarbon solvents are a diverse group of petrochemical substances that are identified as unknown or variable composition, complex reaction products, or biological materials (UVCBs) and may contain tens of thousands of individual chemical constituents. As such, it is generally not possible to analytically resolve every chemical constituent in a hydrocarbon solvent. This, along with the low water solubility and/or high vapor pressure of constituents, precludes the use of many standardized tests designed to determine biodegradation in the environment (e.g., Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development [OECD] 309). A weight of evidence approach may be needed to reduce uncertainty to an acceptable level such that a determination on the biodegradation of the substance can be drawn. Based on the OECD 2019 weight of evidence guidance, we present a framework using various lines of evidence that can be used to evaluate the biodegradation of a UVCB solvent in a weight of evidence approach. The lines of evidence include whole substance testing, data on representative constituents, quantitative structure activity relationship (QSAR) models, and biological plausibility. Using these lines of evidence, “Hydrocarbon, C11–C14, normal alkane, isoalkane, cyclic, <2% aromatics” (EC# 926-141-6) was evaluated in a case study. Data from three whole substance tests, 43 constituents (representing 152 data points), three QSAR models and evidence of microbial degradation pathways were evaluated. Based on the available data, it is concluded that the solvent for the case study is not expected to persist in the environment. This framework sets out a real-world example of how the weight of evidence can be used to evaluate hydrocarbon solvents. While focused on persistence, similar approaches can be used to evaluate other endpoints such as bioaccumulation and toxicity. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2023;19:1120–1130. © 2023 The Authors. Integrated Environmental Assessment and Management published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of Society of Environmental Toxicology & Chemistry (SETAC).
Unique sphingolipid signature identifies luminal and triple‐negative breast cancer subtypes
Authors: Kar Animesh , Medatwal Nihal , Rajput Kajal , Mandal Susmita , Pani Trishna , Khan Ali , Sharma Pankaj , Oberoi Ajit Singh , Vishwakarma Gayatri , Deo SVS , Jolly Mohit Kumar , Bajaj Avinash , Dasgupta Ujjaini
Published: January 2023

Breast cancer (luminal and triple‐negative breast cancer [TNBC]) is the most common cancer among women in India and worldwide. Altered sphingolipid levels have emerged as a common phenomenon during cancer progression. However, these alterations are yet to be translated into robust diagnostic and prognostic markers for cancer. Here, we present the quantified sphingolipids of tumor and adjacent‐normal tissues from patients of luminal (n = 70) and TNBC (n = 42) subtype from an Indian cohort using targeted liquid chromatography mass spectrometry. We recorded unique sphingolipid profiles that distinguished luminal and TNBC tumors in comparison to adjacent normal tissue by six‐sphingolipid signatures. Moreover, systematic comparison of the profiles of luminal and TNBC tumors provided a unique five‐sphingolipid signature distinguishing the two subtypes. We further identified key sphingolipids that can stratify grade II and grade III tumors of luminal and TNBC subtype as well as their lymphovascular invasion status. Therefore, we provide the right evidence to develop these candidate sphingolipids as widely acceptable marker/s capable of diagnosing luminal vs TNBC subtype of breast cancer, and predicting the disease severity by identifying the tumor grade.
Insect‐specific viruses used in biocontrol of mosquito‐borne diseases
Authors: Chen Jiating , Deng Shengqun , Peng Hongjuan
Published: January 2023

Mosquito‐borne diseases, such as malaria, dengue, Zika, and West Nile, have caused substantial disease burdens to the people living in tropical and subtropical regions. Despite decades of efforts in control, the prevalence, geographic distribution, and severity of these diseases are still deteriorating and the options for vector control are limited. Insect‐specific viruses (ISVs) can naturally infect and replicate in mosquitoes, and even be vertically transmitted from generation to generation, interfering with arbovirus' proliferation, and disturbing mosquito's physiology, which are harmless to vertebrates and have great potential for bio‐control. Insect‐specific RNA viruses (ISRVs) infection will inhibit the replication of mosquito‐borne viruses, which may be due to the close phylogeny of ISRVs and the arboviruses. Mosquito baculoviruses (MBVs) and mosquito densoviruses (MDVs) belong to insect‐specific DNA viruses. The former has limited pathogenicity to mosquitoes, while the latter can be horizontally and vertically transmitted in mosquitoes, resulting in habitat pollution, abnormal development or death of larvae and adults. In addition, ISVs can be used as fusion expression vectors to express insect virulence proteins in mosquitoes or directly inactivate important genes of mosquitoes. However, there are still many deficiencies in ISVs research studies. Clarification of the host limit mechanism for each ISVs and application of more targeted and efficient ISVs or toxins will be the future research directions.
Modelling the spray range of rotating nozzles based on modified ballistic trajectory equation parameters
Authors: Zhang Rui , Liu Yichuan , Zhu Delan , Zhang Xiaomin , Gao Fei , Zheng Changjuan
Published: January 2023

The nozzle spray range is an important parameter in the design of sprinkler systems because it affects the wetted area and water application rate. In this study, the jet deformation parameter kjet, which can measure the mass and shape of the jet microelement, was investigated, and a spray range prediction model for a rotating nozzle was established based on the modified ballistic trajectory equation. A comparison verified the accuracy of the model, and the degree of influence of different factors on the spray range was analysed. The results showed the following: (1) The dimension of the jet deformation parameter kjet is the length L, which is a function of the nozzle diameter, working pressure and nozzle elevation angle. (2) The maximum mean absolute error and root mean square error of the current model at a nozzle elevation angle of 24° were 2.038 and 1.603, respectively, representing a maximum increase in prediction accuracy of 87% and 86.7%, respectively, over other models at the same angle. (3) A sensitivity analysis revealed that the factor with the greatest impact on the nozzle spray range was the nozzle diameter, and the smallest was the nozzle mounting height. (4) The maximum nozzle spray range was positively related to the nozzle diameter and working pressure, and the nozzle elevation angle varied at approximately 30° when the maximum range was reached. This study provides a reference for the design of sprinkler systems and the development of rotating nozzles.
How the quality of initial coin offering white papers influences fundraising: Using security token offerings white papers as a benchmark
Authors: Chou Shih‐Chu , Li Zhe‐An , Wang Tawei , Yen Ju‐Chun
Published: January 2023

In recent years, many initial coin offerings (ICOs) scams have been reported, attracting attention to this relatively new and unregulated ICO market, which lacks disclosure requirements and therefore suffers from intensifying problems of information asymmetry inherent in crowdfunding. As a prospectus‐type document, an ICO white paper serves as a major means of voluntary disclosure practices adopted by ventures seeking external financing. Given the importance of an ICO white paper and the difficulty of assessing its quality, we propose to benchmark it against white paper content for security token offerings (STOs)—a more regulated ICO subset. Using the similarity of ICO white papers with STO white papers to proxy for disclosure quality, we document that the ICO campaigns that have white papers more similar to STO white papers are more likely to raise funding successfully. Our findings provide implications for policymakers, ICO fundraisers, and investors on the importance of white paper quality.
Redefining pseudokinases: A look at the untapped enzymatic potential of pseudokinases
Authors: Pon Alex , Osinski Adam , Sreelatha Anju
Published: January 2023

Catalytically inactive kinases, known as pseudokinases, are conserved in all three domains of life. Due to the lack of catalytic residues, pseudokinases are considered to act as allosteric regulators and scaffolding proteins with no enzymatic function. However, since these “dead” kinases are conserved along with their active counterparts, a role for pseudokinases may have been overlooked. In this review, we will discuss the recently characterized pseudokinases Selenoprotein O, Legionella effector SidJ, and the SARS‐CoV2 protein nsp12 which catalyze AMPylation, glutamylation, and RNAylation, respectively. These studies provide structural and mechanistic insight into the versatility and diversity of the kinase fold.
Submissive behavior as a transdiagnostic construct: Associations with internalizing symptoms and distress intolerance
Authors: Patel Tapan A. , Cougle Jesse R.
Published: January 2023

Objective

Submissive behavior is associated with significant impairment and negative life outcomes. The goal of the present study was to determine the transdiagnostic nature of submissive behavior by observing its association with internalizing symptoms (i.e., social anxiety, depression, and worry) and distress intolerance. Additionally, we sought to determine the moderating role of gender in these relationships.

Method

We used a community sample (N = 208) to evaluate the hypothesized relationships between submissive behavior and internalizing symptoms.

Results

All three internalizing symptoms were uniquely associated with greater submissive behavior when covarying for each other. Distress intolerance was also uniquely positively related to submissive behavior respective of general distress. Moderation analyses revealed that the associations between social anxiety, worry, and distress intolerance with submissive behavior were stronger in men rather than women.

Conclusion

The present study provides novel evidence for the relevance of submissive behavior to internalizing symptoms and distress intolerance. We discuss clinical implications and directions for future research.
The risk matrix: Drug‐related deaths in prisons in England and Wales, 2015–2020
Authors: Duke Karen , Gleeson Helen , MacGregor Susanne , Thom Betsy
Published: January 2023

This article explores the factors contributing to drug‐related deaths in English and Welsh prisons between 2015 and 2020. Based on content analysis of all Prison and Probation Ombudsman ‘other non‐natural’ fatal incident investigation reports, descriptive statistics were generated. Qualitative analysis explored the circumstances surrounding deaths and key risk factors. Most deaths were of men, whose mean age was 39 years. Drug toxicity was the main factor in causing death, exacerbated by underlying physical health conditions and risk‐taking behaviours. A variety of substances were involved. New psychoactive substances became more important over time. A high proportion had recorded histories of substance use and mental illness. During this period, the prison system was under considerable stress creating dangerous environments for drug‐related harm. This study highlights the process of complex interaction between substances used, individual characteristics, situational features and the wider environment in explaining drug‐related deaths in prisons. Implications for policy and practice are discussed.
Formal youth mentoring relationships in the context of risk: What is the role of caregiver–mentor collaboration?
Authors: Parnes McKenna F. , Herrera Carla , Keller Thomas E. , Tanyu Manolya , Jarjoura G. Roger , Schwartz Sarah E. O.
Published: January 2023

Most research on youth mentoring relationships has focused on the mentor–mentee dyad, yet caregivers play an important role in supporting these relationships. Drawing on a large, multisite sample of youth in formal mentoring programs (N = 2165), this study investigated associations between caregiver–mentor collaboration and mentoring relationship outcomes in the context of environmental and individual youth risk factors. Analysis of novel quantitative measures assessing caregivers' experiences of the mentoring relationships revealed two factors reflecting caregivers' collaboration with mentors (caregiver involvement and mentor backing), and three factors reflecting caregivers' perceptions of mentor effectiveness (meeting youth needs, advocating for youth, and supporting youth behavior). Results indicated that greater caregiver involvement was associated with higher‐quality and longer‐lasting mentoring relationships. Few associations between risk and mentoring relationships were observed; however, indirect effects indicated that youth environmental risk was positively associated with caregiver involvement, which, in turn, was positively associated with mentoring relationship outcomes.
Synergistic effects of powdered activated carbon (PAC) during initial biofilm formation of the methanogenic consortium on polyurethane foam
Authors: Hudayah Nasrul , Suksong Wantanasak , Kongduan Varunee , Suraraksa Benjaphon
Published: January 2023

BACKGROUND

In the unfavorable conditions of anaerobic digestion systems, the attached or immobilized microbial communities used as biofilm are more resistant to being washed out than the suspended biomass. The biofilm formation was determined by the carrier characteristics, considering their physicochemical properties and high availability. This study presented an approach for improving the use of polyurethane (PU) foam as a biofilm carrier for methanogenic consortium.

RESULTS

The effect of powdered activated carbon (PAC) on the reactor performance and biofilm formation was apparent during days 0–30. The average chemical oxygen demand (COD) removal, methane (CH4) composition, and CH4 yield of PAC‐supplemented reactor (R2) in this period were 71.40%, 82.0%, and 0.3 L CH4 g−1 COD removed, respectively; these values were higher than those of the control reactor (R1). In addition, a greater amount of biomass was observed on the PU foam of R2 (1.47 g VSS), indicating a higher biofilm formation. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis revealed that microbial biofilm on the PAC‐supplemented PU was also denser than that on the control PU. In addition, fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) detected layers of Methanosarcinales and Smithella sp.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrated that PAC supplementation had synergistic effects during initial biofilm formation of the methanogenic consortium by accelerating microbial attachment, preserving biofilm structure, and enhancing methanogenic activity. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Prevalence of sexualized drug use and risk of HIV among sexually active MSM in East and South Asian countries: systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Nevendorff Laura , Schroeder Sophia E. , Pedrana Alisa , Bourne Adam , Stoové Mark
Published: January 2023

Introduction

Sexualized drug use (SDU), the use of psychoactive drugs in the context of sexual intercourse, has been identified as a risk factor for HIV among men who have sex with men (MSM) in Asia. Given the distinct social and cultural context of same‐sex relationships and drug‐using practice in Asia, we aimed to describe the prevalence of SDU in East and South Asian countries and its associations with condomless anal sex (CAI) and HIV status. Synthesizing SDU research in this region, including SDU definitions, prevalence and outcomes, provides insights to inform future research and improved programme planning, resourcing and advocacy.

Methods

We systematically searched OVID Medline, OVID EMBASE, OVID Global Health, CINAHL, PsycINFO and SCOPUS publication databases for scientific articles published from 1990 to 2022 measuring SDU among MSM in East and South Asian countries. A narrative synthesis was utilized to describe key study attributes and findings, and meta‐analyses using random pooled effect models were used to estimate SDU prevalence and its associations with CAI and HIV status. Subgroup meta‐analyses, sensitivity analysis and assessment of publication bias examined potential sources of heterogeneity for the pooled SDU prevalence estimates.

Results and discussion

Of the 1788 publications screened, 49 publications met the selection criteria and 18 were suitable for meta‐analyses. Findings highlight SDU definitions distinct from other regions but inconsistencies in the definition of SDU between studies that have been highlighted in research elsewhere. The pooled prevalence of recent SDU (past 12 months) was 13% (95% CI = 10–16%; I2 = 97.6) but higher when studies utilized self‐administered surveys (15%; 95% CI = 12–19%; p<0.05). SDU was associated with greater odds of CAI (pooled odds ratio [OR] = 3.21; 95% CI = 1.82–5.66) and living with diagnosed HIV (OR = 4.73; 95% CI = 2.27–8.21).

Conclusions

SDU is common among MSM in East and South Asian countries, but varying SDU definitions limit between‐study comparisons. Responses to SDU‐related harms should consider local contexts, including specific drug types used and their relative risks.
Tell Me What To Do Not How To Do It: Influence of Creative Outcome and Process Goals on Creativity
Authors: Keith Melissa G. , Jagacinski Carolyn M.
Published: January 2023

The current research examines the utility of using creative outcome goals and process goals to enhance creativity. We propose that although creative outcome goals are likely to have a direct positive impact on creativity, the relationship between process goals and creativity is mediated by creative process engagement. Results from an experimental study demonstrated that creative outcome goals, particularly specific creative outcome goals, relate directly as well as indirectly to outcome creativity through creative process engagement. Creative process goals, however, impact outcome creativity only indirectly through creative process engagement. Process goals also had a negative impact on perceptions of autonomy, which resulted in lower levels of intrinsic motivation and ultimately creativity. The findings suggest that goals can be effective for enhancing both creative process engagement and outcome creativity; however, care should be taken to ensure that goals do not negatively impact autonomy.
Salivary macrophage activation‐related chemokines and mitogen‐activated kinase kinase‐degrading proteolytic activity in type 1 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Yilmaz Neslihan , Polat Recep , Gürsoy Mervi , Kaman Wendy , Gül Aydin Elif , Fteita Dareen , Yilmaz Dogukan , Bikker Floris , Gürsoy Ulvi Kahraman
Published: January 2023

Background

This cross‐sectional study aimed to evaluate salivary concentrations of macrophage activation‐related chemokines and mitogen‐activated kinase kinase (MAPKK)‐degrading proteolytic activity in children and adolescents with and without type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM).

Methods

A total of 122 children and adolescents (65 T1DM patients, 50.8% female, mean age:10.9 years; 57 systemically healthy controls, 36.8% female, mean age: 9.5 years) were included in the study. Salivary concentrations of interferon gamma inducible protein‐10 (IP‐10), monocyte chemoattractant protein (MCP)‐1, MCP‐2, MCP‐3, MCP‐4, macrophage‐derived chemokine (MDC), macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF), monokine induced by interferon gamma (MIG), and macrophage inflammatory protein‐1 alpha (MIP‐1α) were quantified using a bead‐based technique. MAPKK‐degrading proteolytic activity was detected using fluorescent peptide substrates.

Results

The T1DM group had higher plaque index (PI%, p = 0.032) and bleeding on probing (BOP%, p = 0.045) scores, and lower decayed, missing, filled teeth (dmft/DMFT, p = 0.002) index scores compared to the healthy controls. Compared to the controls, salivary MCP‐1 (p = 0.007), MCP‐3 (p < 0.001), MIG (p = 0.007), and MIP‐1α (p = 0.033) concentrations were elevated whereas MCP‐4 concentrations decreased (p < 0.001) in the T1DM group. After adjusting for age, PI%, BOP%, and dmft/DMFT scores, significant differences in salivary concentrations of MIG (p = 0.033) and MIP‐1α (p = 0.017) were observed between the groups. Moreover, protease activities directed to the cleavage sites of MEK23‐18 (p = 0.001), MKK6b7‐22 (p = 0.007), MKK451‐66 (p = 0.005), MKK7b37‐52 (p = 0.034), and MKK7b69‐84 (p = 0.009) were elevated in the T1DM group.

Conclusion

T1DM disrupts the salivary macrophage activation‐related chemokine profile and dysregulates proteolytic MAPKK cleavage. These findings can be an outcome of the impaired systemic immune response in T1DM.
How can customers cope with cognitive demands of professional services? The role of employee coping support
Authors: Garbas Janina , Blaurock Marah , Büttgen Marion , Ates Zelal
Published: January 2023

Even though researchers are increasingly acknowledging the dark side of customer participation (i.e., behavioral customer engagement), particularly in professional services with high cognitive demands that cause customer participation stress (i.e., negative psychological state resulting from the customer's overextension by required customer participation efforts), insights on how firms can effectively mitigate customer participation stress remains limited. Building on transactional stress theory, we investigate whether customers can effectively cope with the expected cognitive demands of professional services. Moreover, by introducing an adapted coping construct (i.e., coping support), we examine whether employees can provide coping support to help decrease customer participation stress. The findings of a time‐lagged field study with customers of a large German bank (N = 117) suggest that customer coping before the encounter cannot mitigate the effect of anticipated cognitive demands on customer participation stress. Instead, the results of both the field study and a follow‐up experimental study (N = 218) show that a certain set of employee coping support during service encounters is crucial. While focusing on action coping support is not ideal in situations with high cognitive demands, firms should advise their professional service employees to offer emotional coping support to attenuate the unfavorable effect of cognitive demands on customer participation stress.
Blow‐up for a Von Karman equation with nonlinear dissipation, logarithmic source, and acoustic boundary conditions
Authors: Park Sun‐Hye
Published: January 2023

In this paper, we address a Von Karman equation with nonlinear dissipation, logarithmic source effect, and acoustic boundary conditions. We devote to investigate a blow‐up result of the solutions corresponding to the equation. Owing to the presence of nonlinear dissipation instead of linear dissipation, we have some difficulty in use of the concavity method. Thus, using the energy method, we establish a blow‐up result of the solutions with some positive initial energy.
Bifurcation type phenomena for positive solutions of a class of impulsive differential equations
Authors: Wang Weibing , Zuo Xiaoxin
Published: January 2023

In this paper, we are concerned with the existence, nonexistence, and multiplicity of positive solutions for a impulsive periodic boundary value problem with positive parameter
. Using the critical point theorem, we obtain a bifurcation type result about positive solutions; that is, there exists
such that our problem has at least two positive solutions for all
, one positive solution for
, and no positive solution for
under the appropriate conditions.
Exploring role strain and experiences of caregivers of children living with disabilities
Authors: Sakwape Keletwaetse , Machailo Rorisang , Koen Magdalene P.
Published: January 2023

Aim

To explore and describe caregiver role strain in caregivers of children living with disabilities.

Design

This study used qualitative explorative, descriptive and contextual design.

Methods

Eleven participants were purposively chosen from caregivers of children receiving help from the social and community development office. Data collection used semistructured interviews and data saturation occurred with the 11 participants. The data were analysed using content analysis process. The Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research Guidelines were used for reporting.

Results

Four main themes were identified: caring for a child with disability affects the overall health of the caregiver; caring for children living with disabilities puts financial strain on the caregivers; caring for children living with disabilities has an impact on other roles; and strategies employed to cope with the strain of caring for a child living with disability.
The Reductive Leaching of Chalcopyrite by Chromium(II) Chloride for the Rapid and Complete Extraction of Copper
Authors: Vardner Jonathan T. , Inaba Yuta , Jung Heejung , Farinato Raymond S. , Nagaraj D. R. , Banta Scott , West Alan C.
Published: January 2023

A hydrometallurgical process is developed to lower the costs of copper production and thereby sustain the use of copper throughout the global transition to renewable energy technologies. The unique feature of the hydrometallurgical process is the reductive treatment of chalcopyrite, which is in contrast to the oxidative treatment more commonly pursued in the literature. Chalcopyrite reduction by chromium(II) ion is described for the first time and superior kinetics are shown. At high concentrate loadings of 39, 78, and 117 g L−1, chalcopyrite reacted completely within minutes at room temperature and pressure. The XRD, SEM‐EDS, and XPS measurements indicate that chalcopyrite reacts to form copper(I) chloride (CuCl). After the reductive treatment, the mineral products are leached by iron(III) sulfate to demonstrate the complete extraction of copper. The chromium(II) ion may be regenerated by an electrolysis unit inspired by an iron chromium flow battery in a practical industrial process.