bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neurosensory anatomy and function in Seymouria
Authors: Bazzana‐Adams Kayla D. , Evans David C. , Bevitt Joseph J. , Reisz Robert R.
Published: March 2023

Seymouria is among the best‐known stem amniotes and holds an important phylogenetic position for discussions of amniote evolution. Previous work has focused primarily on the osteology of Seymouria, with recent interest turning to the application of computed tomography (CT) to study the internal features. We utilized neutron CT to reconstruct the first virtual cranial endocast and the first complete otic endocasts of Seymouria, revealing previously unrecognized details of its palaeoneuroanatomy. The brain and inner ear of Seymouria are largely plesiomorphic relative to later‐diverging crown amniotes, showing no indication of increased encephalization or braincase ossification. Our results also clarify the plesiomorphic condition for carotid artery morphology in amniotes, with Seymouria showing a similar condition to basal members of both the synapsid and sauropsid lineages. The reconstructed neuroanatomy also indicates that Seymouria did not possess any particular neuroanatomical specializations, despite the probable presence of an impedance matching hearing system.
The development of a Trauma Resiliency Scale (tRS‐18)
Authors: Sinkler Margaret A. , Alejo Andrew , Agel Julie , Hendrickson Sarah , Breslin Mary A. , Vallier Heather A.
Published: March 2023

Resiliency consists of three core components, which include presence of adversity, protective factors to overcome adversity, and positive outcomes or growth. Therefore, resiliency aligns with the trauma recovery process. This paper describes development of the Trauma Resiliency Scale (tRS) to quantify the resiliency of trauma patients upon presentation and during recovery. Scale items were proposed and reviewed by an expert panel. Group construct validity testing was performed using both individual and focus group feedback with item analysis. Reliability was measured with test–retest administered 14 days apart and evaluated with intraclass correlation coefficient. One hundred and twenty‐three items were initially proposed. Following item categorizing, a preliminary 17‐item questionnaire was created. The questionnaire was administered to 40 individual participants and a trauma survivor focus group to evaluate construct validity. Following group construct testing, an 18‐item Trauma Resiliency Scale (tRS‐18) was proposed. Twenty‐four participants were given the tRS‐18 twice, 14 days apart to establish test–retest. Sixteen of the 18 questions had an intraclass correlation >0.7 (0.793–0.949). The remaining two questions underperformed based on the ICC (0.592 and 0.493) and were manually evaluated for inclusion. The final tRS‐18 is a brief, self‐administered measure of resiliency designed specifically for trauma patients. Sound psychometric properties including face validity, construct validity, and reliability of the instrument have been demonstrated. The tRS‐18 may quantify resiliency at any time point with potential to be predictive of progress during recovery. Level of Evidence III, prognostic.
Association between plasma trans fatty acids and chronic periodontitis: Results from a nationally representative cross‐sectional survey
Authors: Wu Yuying , Qiu Yu , Wu Yuxuan , Deng Qingrong , Yu Yiming , Yang Han , Chen Qiansi , He Baochang , Yan Fuhua , Li Yanfen , Chen Fa
Published: March 2023

Background

Trans fatty acid (TFA) consumption has been reported to harbor proinflammatory characteristics and increasing oxidative stress properties, but there has been little research into its association with periodontitis. This study aimed to explore the potential association between TFAs and periodontitis.

Methods

This large population‐based study included participants from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2009‒2010). Weighted binary and ordinal logistic regressions were used to calculate the odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) to evaluate the relationship between plasma TFAs and periodontitis.

Results

A total of 1433 eligible participants, 793 (55.3%) participants with periodontitis and 640 (44.7%) without periodontitis were included. Univariate logistic regression revealed significant associations between plasma trans‐11‐octadecenoic acid, trans‐9‐octadecenoic acid, the sum of trans‐octadecenoic acids, and the sum of TFAs and periodontitis (all P < 0.01). After controlling for the potential confounders, these four types of TFAs remained significantly associated with periodontitis (the ORs and 95% CIs per interquartile range increase were 1.16 (1.01–1.33), 1.20 (1.03–1.39), 1.18 (1.02–1.35), and 1.17 (1.01–1.35), respectively). Notably, these positive associations were more pronounced among overweight/obese populations. Additionally, plasma trans‐9‐octadecenoic acid levels were found to be associated with periodontitis severity.

Conclusions

This study suggests a significant positive association between certain plasma TFAs and chronic periodontitis, especially among overweight/obese populations. These findings provide new insights into periodontitis prevention from a dietary perspective.
Bioactive compounds, functional properties, and technological application of Passiflora quadrangularis: A review
Authors: Cruz Josias M. A. , Pereira Zilanir C. , Corrêa Renilto F. , Lamarão Carlos V. , Sanches Edgar A. , Campelo Pedro H. , Bezerra Jaqueline de A.
Published: March 2023

The objective of this research was to evaluate the bioactive compounds and functional properties of Passiflora quadrangularis, aiming to contribute to future studies on the elaboration of functional products based on this species. The chemical analysis of flavonoids from the leaves, as well as the chemical composition of fruits (specifically the pericarp) were accessed herein. The functional properties are directly dependent on specific extracts, and the aqueous extract and the flavonoid fraction are responsible for the sedative property. The presence of C‐glycosyl flavonoids is highly reported in the chemical composition, highlighting the vitexin‐2″‐O‐xyloside. Few studies have been focused on this species, and most of them are devoted to the sedative properties of the genus Passiflora spp. However, a review on the main available information on this species is of extreme interest for the research and development of products in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and food areas.
Enzyme‐assisted HPTLC method for the simultaneous analysis of inositol phosphates and phosphate
Authors: Henninger Corinna , Spangenberg Bernd , Schmidt Mario , Ochsenreither Katrin , Eisele Thomas
Published: March 2023

Background

The analysis of myo‐inositol phosphates (InsPx) released by phytases during phytic acid degradation is challenging and time‐consuming, particularly in terms of sample preparation, isomer separation, and detection. However, a fast and robust analysis method is crucial when screening for phytases during protein engineering approaches, which result in a large number of samples, to ensure reliable identification of promising novel enzymes or target variants with improved characteristics, for example, pH range, thermal stability, and phosphate release kinetics.

Results

The simultaneous analysis of several InsPx (InsP1‐InsP4 and InsP5 + 6) as well as free phosphate was established on cellulose HPTLC plates using a buffered mobile phase. Inositol phosphates were subsequently stained using a novel enzyme‐assisted staining procedure. Immobilized InsPx were hydrolyzed by a phytase solution of Quantum® Blueliquid 5G followed by a molybdate reagent derivatization. Resulting blue zones were captured by DAD scan. The method shows good repeatability (intra‐day and intra‐lab) with maximum deviations of the Rf value of 0.01. The HPTLC method was applied to three commercially available phytases at two pH levels relevant to the gastrointestinal tract of poultry (pH 5.5 and pH 3.6) to observe their phytate degradation pattern and thus visualize their InsPx fingerprint.

Conclusion

This HPTLC method presents a semi‐high‐throughput analysis for the simultaneous analysis of phytic acid and the resulting lower inositol phosphates after its enzymatic hydrolysis and is also an effective tool to visualize the InsPx fingerprints and possible accumulations of inositol phosphates.
Does biochar addition improve soil physicochemical properties, bacterial community and alfalfa growth for saline soils?
Authors: Chen Yang , Qiu Yuan , Hao Xinmei , Tong Ling , Li Sien , Kang Shaozhong
Published: March 2023

Biochar addition has been proven to have great potential for improving soil physicochemical properties and crop growth in salt‐affected soils. However, whether adding biochar could affect alfalfa growth and soil bacterial community in salt‐affected soils of arid regions remains poorly understood. A pot experiment was carried out to investigate the effects of corn straw biochar addition on soil physicochemical properties, bacterial community and alfalfa yield in saline soils. There were 12 treatments in total, combining three biochar addition rates of 0, 20 and 40 g kg−1 (referred to as B0, B2 and B4, respectively) and four salinity levels of 0, 2, 4 and 6 g kg−1 (referred as to S0, S2, S4 and S6, respectively). The results indicated that biochar addition significantly increased soil organic carbon (SOC), electrical conductivity (EC), soil water content (SWC), available nitrogen (AN) and phosphorus (AP) and mesopores fraction, but decreased soil bulk density (BD), pH and macropores fraction for different salinity levels. In general, biochar addition had an adverse effect on alfalfa yield due to the aggregated stresses from the increased EC and mesopores fraction, especially at high salinity levels. On average, biochar addition decreased the total yield of the two years by 14.2%, 25.3%, 38.3% and 60.4% for S0, S2, S4 and S6, respectively. Biochar addition significantly changed bacterial community composition with higher relative abundances of Proteobacteria and Bacteroidetes but lower relative abundances of Actinobacteria and Acidobacteria under S2–S6. On average, both soil salinity and biochar treatments decreased soil bacterial richness by 5.7–14.6% and 4.1–8.8% compared with S0 and B0, respectively, but they did not significantly affect the bacterial diversity. The redundancy analysis (RDA) suggested that EC, SWC, pH, AN and AP were the most critical factors driving the change of soil bacterial community structure accounting for 69.9%, 64.7% 61.6%, 57.0% and 51.8% of the variation, respectively. Therefore, our results provided valuable insight into how biochar addition would affect alfalfa yield and soil properties, including bacterial community richness and composition and structure of saline soils in arid regions.
Tunable Topological Lasing of Circularly Polarized Light in a Soft‐Matter‐Based Superlattice
Authors: Wang Yu , Yang Donghao , Gao Shaohua , Zhang Xinzheng , Drevensek‐Olenik Irena , Wu Qiang , Chemingui Marouen , Chen Zhigang , Xu Jingjun
Published: March 2023

The advance of topological photonics has heralded a revolution for manipulating light as well as for the development of novel photonic devices such as topological insulator lasers. Here, the robust topological interface state lasing in a polymer‐cholesteric liquid crystal superlattice at the visible regime is demonstrated. By use of the femtosecond‐laser direct‐writing and self‐assembling techniques, the micron‐sized superlattice is established with a controlled mini‐band structure and a topological interface defect, thereby achieving a low threshold for robust topological lasing at about 0.4 µJ (722 W·mm−2). Thanks to the chiral liquid crystal, not only is the circularly polarized lasing readily achieved, but the emission wavelength is thermally tuned. The results bring about the possibility to realize tunable, circularly polarized, compact, and integrated topological photonic devices at low cost, as well as to engineer an ideal platform for exploring topological physics that involves light–matter interaction in soft‐matter environments.
Circular RNA ACACA negatively regulated p53‐modulated mevalonate pathway to promote colorectal tumorigenesis via regulating miR‐193a/b‐3p/HDAC3 axis
Authors: He Fengjiao , Liu Qiong , Liu Huan , Pei Qian , Zhu Hong
Published: March 2023

This study aimed to explore the biological functions and underlying mechanism of circRNA acetyl‐CoA carboxylase alpha (circACACA) in colorectal cancer (CRC). The RNA and protein levels were detected by qRT‐PCR and western blot assays. The malignant capacities of CRC cells were analyzed by cell counting kit‐8 (CCK‐8), colony formation, flow cytometry, and transwell assays. The target relationship between miR‐193a/b‐3p and circACACA/histone deacetylase 3 (HDAC3) was determined by luciferase reporter assay and RNA immunoprecipitation. The binding of HDAC3 to the p53 promoter was validated by chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP). CRC cell growth and lung metastasis were evaluated in nude mice in vivo. High expression of circACACA was found in CRC tissues and cells, which was closely associated with the advanced tumor, lymph node, metastasis (TNM) stage, metastasis, and low overall survival rate. circACACA downregulation effectively delayed CRC cell proliferation and metastasis, but triggered apoptosis via inactivating the mevalonic acid (MVA) pathway. However, circACACA overexpression resulted in the opposite effects. Mechanistically, circACACA enhanced HDAC3 expression through sponging miR‐193a/b‐3p, which activated the MVA pathway via inhibiting the acetylation and transcription of p53. Moreover, rescue experiments confirmed that miR‐193a/b‐3p inhibition reversed the inhibitory effect of circACACA deficiency on CRC growth and metastasis. Moreover, circACACA overexpression‐mediated malignant phenotypes of CRC cells were abrogated by HDAC3 knockdown. circACACA promoted CRC progression via regulating the miR‐193a/b‐3p/HDAC3/p53 axis to activate the MVA pathway, providing evidence for circACACA as a promising therapeutic target for CRC.
A drug utilization study of thiocolchicoside‐containing medicinal products for systemic use in France and Italy: A cross‐sectional electronic medical records database study
Authors: Druet‐Cabanac Annie , Sophie Jouaville Laurence , Afshari Reza , Sahnoun Rachid , Kouao‐Kanga Germain , Toussi Massoud , Granados Denis
Published: March 2023

Purpose

The risk minimization measures (RMM) for systemic use of thiocolchicoside (TCC) was implemented across Europe during 2014–2016. RMM included restriction of use in age <16 years, maximum dose and duration, chronic conditions, contraindication in pregnancy, lactation or in women of childbearing potential [WOCBP] without appropriate contraception. The current Drug Utilization Study was aimed to describe the prescribing practices of TCC in France and Italy.

Method

The study analyzed data (demographic, prescription, diagnosis, and concomitant treatment) from electronic medical record databases. It compares drug utilization during pre‐implementation (baseline: year 2013) and post‐implementation (years 1, 2, and 3) of RMM. This study included panels of general practitioners (FGP) and rheumatologists (FRH) in France and Italy (IGP).

Results

TCC was largely prescribed as adjuvant therapy in both pre‐implementation (FGP: 93.5%, FRH: 88.8%, IGP: 86.6%) and post‐implementation (FGP: 92.3%, FRH: 89.5%, IGP: 89.0%) periods. Prescribing patterns were different in France and Italy, with FGP and FRH mainly prescribing oral formulation (>95% and >80%, respectively), while IGP prescribing intramuscular formulation (>70%). Prescriptions to patients aged ≥16 years were >99% in all panels during both periods. An improvement was observed in compliance with treatment duration for oral formulation in the FGP panel post‐implementation versus pre‐implementation (66.2% vs. 46.7%; p < 0.001). There was no change in prescription rate post RMM implementation in pregnant (FGP: 0.5%, IGP: 4.7%) and in WOCBP without appropriate contraception (FGP: 89.3%, IGP: 93.4%).

Conclusion

These results highlighted changes in prescribing practices of TCC after RMM implementation, which varied across panels and measures.
Bias amplification of unobserved confounding in pharmacoepidemiological studies using indication‐based sampling
Authors: Ahlqvist Viktor H. , Madley‐Dowd Paul , Ly Amanda , Rast Jessica , Lundberg Michael , Jónsson‐Bachmann Egill , Berglind Daniel , Rai Dheeraj , Magnusson Cecilia , Lee Brian K.
Published: March 2023

Purpose

Estimating causal effects in observational pharmacoepidemiology is a challenging task, as it is often plagued by confounding by indication. Restricting the sample to those with an indication for drug use is a commonly performed procedure; indication‐based sampling ensures that the exposed and unexposed are exchangeable on the indication—limiting the potential for confounding by indication. However, indication‐based sampling has received little scrutiny, despite the hazards of exposure‐related covariate control.

Methods

Using simulations of varying levels of confounding and applied examples we describe bias amplification under indication‐based sampling.

Results

We demonstrate that indication‐based sampling in the presence of unobserved confounding can give rise to bias amplification, a self‐inflicted phenomenon where one inflates pre‐existing bias through inappropriate covariate control. Additionally, we show that indication‐based sampling generally leads to a greater net bias than alternative approaches, such as regression adjustment. Finally, we expand on how bias amplification should be reasoned about when distinct clinically relevant effects on the outcome among those with an indication exist (effect‐heterogeneity).

Conclusion

We conclude that studies using indication‐based sampling should have robust justification ‐ and that it should by no means be considered unbiased to adopt such approaches. As such, we suggest that future observational studies stay wary of bias amplification when considering drug indications.
Finite element theoretical and experimental study on the dynamic characteristics of material extrusion thin plates
Authors: Jiang Shijie , Chen Chuangchuang , Li Changyou , Zhao Chunyu
Published: March 2023

Material extrusion (ME), one of the most rapidly developing additive manufacturing techniques, has been widely used in the field of aerospace, medical, industrial design, and so on. Since the working environment is increasingly complex, it is urgent to study the ME products' dynamic performances to determine their reliability. In this article, a finite element theoretical model of ME thin plate was established with the porosity defect taken into account. A modal test system was set up and the multiple‐input single‐output method was used to obtain the measured data. The scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis on the samples confirmed that the dynamic characteristic was improved as the extrusion temperature increased. In addition, the sensitivity analysis was carried out on the model to predict how the samples' elastic modulus, Poisson's ratio, and density affect their dynamic characteristics. The results show that the proposed model is reliable to give accurate predictions on the dynamic characteristics of ME thin plates. With the increase of extrusion temperature, the samples' natural frequency will increase, and the vibration response will decrease. The sensitivity analysis indicates that increasing elastic modulus or Poisson's ratio can increase the natural frequency of ME thin plate but decrease the vibration response. While increasing the density will decrease both the natural frequency and vibration response.
The association between school staff's coping strategies following a student's suicide, school climate, and previous experience with suicide
Authors: Fire Noa Tiech , Alkalay Sarit , Gvion Yari , Zalsman Gil
Published: March 2023

This article examines whether and to what extent school climate and previous experience of attempted suicide or suicide of someone close, affect the strategies adopted by Israeli school staff members in coping with a student's suicide. Participants included 84 homeroom teachers, principals, counselors, and psychologists who work at schools where a student had died by suicide during the five preceding years. Our findings show that optimal school climate predicts elevated levels of overall coping strategies and higher problem‐focused strategies. Additionally, staff members who previously experienced suicide or attempted suicide of a close person exhibit lower levels of coping strategies, in general, and of emotion‐focused strategies in particular. Thus, they can be considered a risk group for less adaptive adjustment following a student's suicide. Finally, previous incidents of suicide or attempted suicide of a close person do not moderate the link between optimal school climate and coping strategies. Thus, optimal school climate has a robust and positive effect on school staff's coping abilities and hence may be considered a protective factor for the risk group we identified, namely school staff who had previous experience of someone close who attempted suicide or died by suicide.
Status of transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt for portal hypertension in China: A national survey analysis
Authors: Shao Haibo , Han Xinwei , Zhao Jianbo , Sun Junhui , Fang Zhuting , Xiong Bin , Zhu Xiaoli , Ren Weixin , Yuan Min , Yu Shiping , Niu Meng , Lv Weifu , Zhang Xueqiang , Zhang Chunqing , Li Lei , Luo Xuefeng , Song Yusheng , Ma Yilong , Dang Tong , Xiang Hua , Jin Yun , Xue Hui , Jin Guiyun , Li Xiao , Li Jiarui , Zhou Shi , Yu Changlu , He Song , Yu Lei , Zu Hongmei , Ma Jun , Lei Yanming , Xu Ke , Qi Xiaolong ,   CHESS‐TIPS consortium
Published: March 2023

Aim

The transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) procedure has been performed in China for 30 years, but our understanding of the status and difficulties associated with the use of TIPS for portal hypertension is incomplete. This study aims to investigate the current situation of the use of TIPS for portal hypertension, which should aid the development of TIPS in China.

Methods

This study involved a questionnaire survey, initiated by the China Portal Hypertension Alliance (CHESS) to investigate the use of TIPS for portal hypertension in China. Questionnaires were released on the Internet between August 16, 2022 and September 16, 2022. Detailed information was collected from 545 hospitals contracted by the CHESS in China, which performed TIPS surgery in 2021.

Results

The 545 hospitals covers the majority of hospitals in China that conduct TIPS intervention. In the survey, a total of 13,527 TIPS interventions were carried out with 94.1% (498/545) of them had a system of routine follow‐up after TIPS. The majority (42.6% [232/545]) believed that the main indication of TIPS was the control of acute bleeding. Overall, 48.1% (262/545) carried out early or pre‐emptive TIPS, 53.0% (289/545) carried out TIPS for cavernous transformation of the portal vein, and 81.0% (441/545) chose routine embolization of collateral circulation during operation. Most used coils (97.0% [475/490]) and biological glue (72.0% [353/490]) as embolic materials, and 78.5% (428/545) routinely performed intraoperative portal pressure gradient measurements. When selecting TIPS stents, 57.1% (311/545) chose viator‐specific stents, and 57.2% (312/545) chose conventional anticoagulation after TIPS. Conventional anticoagulation after TIPS is over a time interval of 3–6 months (55.4% [173/312]). The limitation of TIPS surgery is mainly its cost (72.3% [394/545]) and insufficient understanding of the procedure by doctors in other related departments (77.4% [422/545]). Most of the hospital teams accept the use of domestic instruments in TIPS surgery (92.7% [505/545]).

Conclusions

This survey shows that TIPS is an essential part of the treatment of portal hypertension in China. TIPS is widely used in Chinese patients with portal hypertension, and this survey presents a more comprehensive picture of the options and difficulties encountered in the implementation of TIPS. In the future, it is necessary to promote TIPS technology and further standardize surgical indications, routine operations, and instrument application.
Investigating the potential of civil disagreement to decrease issue polarization in China
Authors: Guan Tianru , Liu Tianyang , Chen Xiaotong
Published: March 2023

With mass polarization becoming an increasingly urgent sociopolitical agenda in both established and emerging democracies, academics and policy‐makers have been racing to develop effective depolarizing approaches. While (semi‐)authoritarian nations have also been afflicted by social cleavage and a negative, incompatible and even radicalized discussion climate towards public policy and sociopolitical issues, polarization and related countermeasures in such contexts have thus far gained scarce academic attention. The present study addresses this gap, investigating the depolarization potential of exposure to civil (vs. uncivil) cross‐cutting discussion in China's cyberspace. Through online experiment (N = 1064), participants were exposed to dissonant viewpoints on China's contentious divorce‐cooling‐off‐period policy, presented as original Weibo posts (China's social network site). Our results prove the effectiveness of civil disagreement, as a virtue and precondition of deliberation, in alleviating opinion extremity. Finally, implications for China's wider political system and deliberation studies are discussed.
Monitoring and reporting dam safety operational risks based on bow tie methodology
Authors: Alves Douglas , Oliveira Cristiano Francisco , Marsal Sergio Claudio , Souza Rubenei Novais , Fonseca Luiz Paulo Carvalho
Published: March 2023

This work focuses on the development of an approach considering the application of the bow tie methodology for monitoring and reporting the performance status of safety barriers used in collapse prevention of dams that store water for refinery process purposes, as well as for mitigation of the consequences in case of materialization of this scenario. After elaboration of the bow tie diagram in collaboration with technical specialists directly involved in dams' safety, the integrity of barriers is determined based on information collected from each dam at an operational level. Considering the literature review carried out, one of the most important contributions of this research (besides the bow tie diagram itself) consists in the proposition of a periodic reporting process of barriers performance indicators to managers responsible for each barrier in order to properly support risk management, permeating all the relevant technical and hierarchical levels (including communications upwards the board—top management). Its main motivation lies in lessons learned from several past major accidents, such as Macondo, Texas City, and, the Brumadinho catastrophe itself, regarding the need for safety information to “travel upwards” on the companies' hierarchy in order to properly and quickly support the decision‐making process, contributing to the strengthening of safety culture inside the organizations.
Bounded integer model‐based analysis of psoriasis area and severity index in patients with moderate‐to‐severe plaque psoriasis receiving BI 730357
Authors: Ooi Qing Xi , Kristoffersson Anders , Korell Julia , Flack Mary , L. Plan Elodie , Weber Benjamin
Published: March 2023

BI 730357 is investigated as an oral treatment of plaque psoriasis. We analyzed the impact of three dosage regimens on the Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) response with modeling based on phase I and II data from 109 healthy subjects and 274 patients with moderate‐to‐severe plaque psoriasis. The pharmacokinetics (PK) was characterized by a two‐compartment model with dual absorption paths and a first‐order elimination. Higher baseline C‐reactive protein was associated with lower clearance and patients generally had lower clearance compared with healthy subjects. A bounded integer PK/pharmacodynamic model characterized the effect on the observed PASI. The maximum drug effect was largest for patients with no prior biologic use, smaller for patients with prior use of non‐interleukin‐17 inhibitors, and smallest for patients with prior interleukin‐17 inhibitor use. The models allowed robust simulation of large patient populations, predicting a plateau in PASI outcomes for BI 730357 exposure above 2000 nmol/L.
Rose essential oil diminishes dopaminergic neuron degenerations and reduces α‐synuclein aggregation in Caenorhabditis elegans models of Parkinson's disease
Authors: Muhammad Fahim , Liu Yan , Wang Ningbo , Zhao Longhe , Zhou Yangtao , Yang Hui , Li Hongyu
Published: March 2023

Parkinson's disease (P.D.) is the second most progressive neurodegenerative disorder in the elderly. Degeneration of dopaminergic (DA) neurons and α‐synuclein (α‐Syn) accumulated toxicity is the major contributor to this disease. At present, the disease has no effective treatment. Many recent studies focus on identifying novel therapeutics that provide benefits to stop the disease progression in P.D. patients. Screening novel and effective drugs in P.D. animal models is time‐ and cost‐consuming. Rose Essential Oil (REO) extracted from Rosa Rugosa species (R. Setate × R. Rugosa). REO contains Citronellol, Geraniol, and Octadiene that possess anti‐Aβ, anti‐oxidative, and anti‐depression‐like properties, but no reports have defined the REO effect on P.D. yet. The present study examines the REO neuroprotective potential in transgenic Caenorhabditis elegans P.D. models. We observed that REO reduced α‐Syn aggregations and diminished DA neuron degenerations induced by 6‐OHDA, reduced food‐sensing behavioural disabilities, and prolonged the lifespan of the nematode. Moreover, REO augmented the chymotrypsin‐like proteasome and SOD‐3 activities. Further, we observed the anti‐oxidative role of REO by reducing internal cells ROS. Together, these findings supported REO as an anti‐PD drug and may exert its effects by lowering oxidative stress via the anti‐oxidative pathway.
Robust H∞ tracking of linear discrete‐time systems using Q‐learning
Authors: Valadbeigi Amir Parviz , Shu Zhan , Khaki Sedigh Ali
Published: March 2023

This paper deals with a robust tracking problem with a discounted factor. A new auxiliary system is established in terms of norm‐bounded time‐varying uncertainties. It is shown that the robust discounted tracking problem for the auxiliary system solves the original problem. Then, the new robust discounted tracking problem is represented as a well‐known zero‐sum game problem. Moreover, the robust tracking Bellman equation and the robust tracking Algebraic Riccati equation (RTARE) are inferred. A lower bound of a discounted factor for stability is obtained to assure the stability of the closed‐loop system. Based on the auxiliary system, the system is reshaped in a new structure that is applicable to Reinforcement Learning methods. Finally, an online Q‐learning algorithm without the knowledge of system matrices is proposed to solve the algebraic Riccati equation associated with the robust discounted tracking problem for the auxiliary system. Simulation results are given to verify the effectiveness and merits of the proposed method.
Satellite constellation design for 5G wireless networks of mobile communications
Authors: Muttiah Ravandran
Published: March 2023

Satellite constellation design plays an important role in satellite networks. Network constellation system design can affect the effectiveness of current improvements of the communications link and the management of the entire network. The power requirement of the mobile stations and ground stations is very high in a geostationary Earth orbit communication system, which means the terrestrial terminal is hard to be made handheld for fifth generation mobile communications. The emergence of nongeostationary orbit satellites such as low Earth orbit satellites greatly compensates for the disadvantage of geostationary Earth orbit satellites. Based on the classical constellation design method, the orthogonal circular orbit constellation is proposed. The design objectives considered here are the following: global Earth coverage by low Earth orbit satellites, the duration of continuously covering one mobile station by one satellite is more than 9.57 min, the access satellite link duration time of the mobile station is more than 4.79 min, and the number of satellites and orbits is to be minimum.
In Situ Formation ZnIn2S4/Mo2TiC2 Schottky Junction for Accelerating Photocatalytic Hydrogen Evolution Kinetics: Manipulation of Local Coordination and Electronic Structure
Authors: Xi Qing , Xie Fangxia , Liu Jianxin , Zhang Xiaochao , Wang Jiancheng , Wang Yawen , Wang Yunfang , Li Houfen , Yu Zhuobin , Sun Zijun , Jian Xuan , Gao Xiaoming , Ren Jun , Fan Caimei , Li Rui
Published: March 2023

Regulating electronic structures of the active site by manipulating the local coordination is one of the advantageous means to improve photocatalytic hydrogen evolution (PHE) kinetics. Herein, the ZnIn2S4/Mo2TiC2 Schottky junctions are designed to be constructed through the interfacial local coordination of In3+ with the electronegative O terminal group on Mo2TiC2 based on the different work functions. Kelvin probe force microscopy and charge density difference reveal that an electronic unidirectional transport channel across the Schottky interface from ZnIn2S4 to Mo2TiC2 is established by the formed local nucleophilic/electrophilic region. The increased local electron density of Mo2TiC2 inhibits the backflow of electrons, boosts the charge transfer and separation, and optimizes the hydrogen adsorption energy. Therefore, the ZnIn2S4/Mo2TiC2 photocatalyst exhibits a superior PHE rate of 3.12 mmol g−1 h−1 under visible light, reaching 3.03 times that of the pristine ZnIn2S4. This work provides some insights and inspiration for preparing MXene‐based Schottky catalysts to accelerate PHE kinetics.
Strong Ferromagnetic Manipulation of SrTiO3 from CO2‐Straining Effect on Electronic Structure Modulation
Authors: Li Lianyu , Gao Bo , Xu Song , Xu Qun
Published: March 2023

2D magnetic materials are ideal to fabricate magneto‐optical, magneto‐electric, and data storage devices, which are proposed to be critical to the next generation of information technologies. Benefited from their labile structures, 2D perovskites are amenable for magnetic manipulation through structural optimization. In this work, 2D room‐temperature ferromagnetic SrTiO3 is achieved through straining effect induced by supercritical carbon dioxide (SC CO2). According to experimental results, the cubic phase of SrTiO3 is converted to tetragonal with exposure of (110), (200), (111), and (211) planes over the SC CO2 treatment, leading to significant ferromagnetic enhancement. Theoretical calculations illustrate that over the conversion from cubic to tetragonal, the electronic structure of SrTiO3 is significantly modulated. Specifically, the spin density of planes of (200), (111), and (211) is enhanced, presumably due to the stabilization of the highest occupied molecular orbital over straining by SC CO2, leading to magnetic optimizations. This work suggests that magnetic optimization can be achieved from SC CO2‐induced electronic structure modulation.
Recombination in Passivating Contacts: Investigation Into the Impact of the Contact Work Function on the Obtained Passivation
Authors: Le Anh Huy Tuan , Bonilla Ruy S. , Black Lachlan E. , Seif Johannes P. , Allen Thomas G. , Dumbrell Robert , Samundsett Christian , Hameiri Ziv
Published: March 2023

Improving the passivation of contacts in silicon solar cells is crucial for reaching high‐efficiency devices. Herein, the impact of the contact work function on the obtained passivation is examined and quantified using a novel method—quasi‐steady‐state photoluminescence—which provides access to the surface saturation current density after metallization (J0s,m). The obtainedJ0s,mindicates an improvement of the surface passivation when contacts with high work function are applied onto Si wafers passivated with aluminum oxide, regardless of the wafer doping type. This improvement is mainly due to the amplification of the imbalance between the electron and hole concentrations near the Si interface. The passivation quality is reduced when using contacts with low work function in which the recombination rate increases via the charge‐assisted carrier population control. Herein, the vital importance of selecting suitable metals to minimize contact recombination in high‐efficiency solar cells is pointed.
Rollable and Ventilated Net‐Based Solar Thermal Water Evaporator for Casting on Water Surface
Authors: Zhou Huang , Xue Jie , Che Qinglin , Kong Lingfeng , Zhang Nannan , Tao Changyuan , Fan Xing
Published: March 2023

The solar‐thermal evaporator provides a sustainable freshwater production strategy, of which the large‐scale floating applications on river or sea still confront the challenge of the highly efficient flexible evaporator. However, existing flexible evaporators often use porous gel to load solar‐thermal materials, which only allow water to evaporate out from outermost surface but waste heat by dissipating into bulky water. Herein, a rollable and ventilated flexible solar‐thermal evaporator based on dendritic net substrate is presented, which can be cast in a scalable way on waving water surface. Compared to that of the porous gel, the dendritic structure can not only capture photons efficiently, but also enlarge the ratio of water evaporation area to heat dissipation area by over 109 times, with efficient water transfer path of merely 0.3 cm length in average for even 1 m2 water evaporation area. The flexible evaporator can achieve a photothermal evaporation temperature of 108 °C and an evaporation rate of >1.46 kg m−2 h−1@1 sun illumination. A sustainable ecological circulation evaporation system is demonstrated to show its potential for scalable floating‐on‐sea applications.
Second‐order preserving point process permutations
Authors: Mohler George , Mateu Jorge
Published: March 2023

While random permutations of point processes are useful for generating counterfactuals in bivariate interaction tests, such permutations require that the underlying intensity be separable. In many real‐world datasets where clustering or inhibition is present, such an assumption does not hold. Here, we introduce a simple combinatorial optimization algorithm that generates second‐order preserving (SOP) point process permutations, for example, permutations of the times of events such that the function of the permuted process matches the function of the data. We apply the algorithm to synthetic data generated by a self‐exciting Hawkes process and a self‐avoiding point process, along with data from Los Angeles on earthquakes and arsons and data from Indianapolis on law enforcement drug seizures and overdoses. In all cases, we are able to generate a diverse sample of permuted point processes where the distribution of the functions closely matches that of the data. We then show how SOP point process permutations can be used in two applications: (1) bivariate Knox tests and (2) data augmentation to improve deep learning‐based space‐time forecasts.
Reading the Word and World: Portrayals of Activism in Children's Literature
Authors: Fletcher Lauren , Holyoke Erica
Published: March 2023

Activism is a term used frequently within and beyond educational settings, but the term is not always clearly defined. Using content analysis of over 150 picturebooks depicting activism, we strive to provide specificity to what activism is and make it tangible for readers and teachers. Through content analysis, we investigate key themes, characters, and actions in these books. From this analysis, we present a framework of head, heart, and world books. This framework illuminates the nuances of what activism can be from every day to transformative actions in making communities, local and global, a more equitable place. The article emphasizes the importance of using a variety of picturebooks on activism in classrooms to empower teachers and children to think critically about texts and be changemakers in the world.
Minimum space requirements for cattle: An approach based on photographic records
Authors: Gallo Carmen , Tabilo Bárbara , Navarro Grisel , Phillips Clive
Published: March 2023

Background

The space requirements for accommodating cattle during confinement are based on assessment of both the physical space occupied by the animals and that needed for essential behaviours. The aim of this study was to estimate the area (m2) occupied by cattle of different liveweights in the static standing (ST), recumbency (SR) and sleeping (SL) postures.

Methods

The study was conducted in Chile. The area (m2) occupied by 26 female beef cross cattle with liveweights between 45 and 642 kg was estimated in the ST, SR and SL postures through planimetry using overhead photographs. The allometric coefficientkvalue was obtained for each posture using linear regression equations from the measured weight (kg0.66) and area occupied.

Results

Less but more variable space was occupied by each individual in the ST posture compared to SR or SL posture, with clear correlations between weight and occupied area. Thekvalues obtained were 0.014 (ST), 0.023 (SR) and 0.021 (SL), which are all less than international recommendations for the same postures.

Limitations

The methodology needs refinement to reduce the distance to the object optical effect in the different postures. Further work is also needed to determine additional space requirements for behavioural needs and movements associated with each posture and change of posture, depending on the type of confinement.

Conclusions

We provide a scientific basis on which to objectively establish absolute minimum static space requirements for cattle of different breeds, types, weights and anatomical conformations and calculatekvalues.
Ovine endometrial estrogen receptor expression is altered following PG‐600 administration
Authors: Habeeb Hayder Mohammed Hassan , Kleditz Logan , Hazzard Timothy , Bishop Cecily , Stormshak Fred , Kutzler Michelle Anne
Published: March 2023

Background

Dysregulation of the estrogen receptor 1 (ESR1) expression during the establishment of pregnancy could contribute to reduce fertility reported in ewes treated with PG‐600.

Objectives

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of treatment with PG‐600 on ESR1 expression in the ovine endometrium during early diestrus.

Methods

Polypay ewes (n = 24) that had exhibited an oestrous cycle of normal duration (16–18 days) were treated with intravaginal progesterone‐releasing device (CIDR) for 9 days. Cloprostenol was administrated two days before CIDR withdrawal. On the day of CIDR withdrawal (day 0), ewes received a 5 mL intramuscular injection of PG‐600 (400 IU equine chorionic gonadotropin and 200 IU human chorionic gonadotropin) or saline. Blood samples were collected before treatment and on the day of tissue collection to determine serum estradiol‐17β and progesterone concentrations using radioimmunoassay. On days 4 and 7, six ewes from each treatment group were anaesthetised and a laparotomy was performed to obtain intercaruncular endometrial samples. Endometrial samples were collected ipsilateral to the ovary bearing the highest number of corpora lutea. An estradiol exchange assay was used to determine ESR1 concentration.

Results

Estradiol concentrations did not differ by time or treatment, but progesterone concentrations were significantly higher in the PG‐600‐treated group on day 7 despite a similar number of corpora lutea. Endometrial ESR1 concentration was significantly reduced on day 7 in the PG‐600 group.

Conclusions

In conclusion, although progesterone was higher than controls on day 7, ESR1 did not differ from controls suggesting that treatment with PG600 is unlikely to impair reproductive potential.
Dynamics of magnetohydrodynamic nonlinear radiative flow of diamond‐Co3O4/EG hybrid nanofluid with homogeneous—heterogeneous reactions
Authors: Jehan Saiqa Shah , Khan Waris , Fadhl Bandar M. , Makhdoum Basim M. , Abbas Zaheer
Published: March 2023

Newtonian fluid flow analysis is quickly becoming one of the most important areas of study. These liquids have an extensive range of engineering and industrial uses, including in cooling systems, food processing, nuclear reactors, paint and adhesives, and drilling rigs. Hybrid nanofluids, on the other hand, are vital to the heat transmission process. This research aims to examine the hybrid nanofluid's three‐dimensional nonlinear radiative magnetohydrodynamic flow over a stretching surface. Ethylene glycol is considered a base fluid, whereas diamond and Cobalt tetroxide (Co3O4) are considered hybrid nanoparticles. The approach also takes into account the catalytic property of homogeneous—heterogeneous processes. The governing fluid equations are computed by Homotopy analysis method and compare the result with shooting technique after employing appropriate transformations. The result of different constraints on temperature profiles and velocity profiles are scrutinized and graphically depicted as well as through the construction of table. A graphical comparison has been made between Nusselt number and skin friction for hybrid nanofluid and nanofluid respectfully. The finding of our study is that the velocity profile decreases for the high value of magnetic parameter. In the presences of nonlinear radiation temperature profile enhances. In transferring heat, the hybrid nanofluid is more effective than nanofluid. This work can be used in various industries to increase their efficiency.
Numerical analysis of nonlinear time‐fractional fluid models for simulating heat transport processes in porous medium
Authors: Khan Mumtaz , Rasheed Amer , Anwar Muhammad Shoaib
Published: March 2023

Hybrid nanomaterials offer potential scope for increasing numerous novel applications when engineered to deliver availably functional properties. In the current assessment, a novel fractional constitutive relationship for buoyance‐driven flow and heat transfer has been developed in order to control the flow and heat transfer behavior. The fluid flow is produced by a permeable moving surface and is exposed to thermal radiation along with an applied magnetic field. This study employed the SiO2/MoS2 hybrid nanoparticles with different mass ratios in water as the base fluid. Moreover, the Darcy expression characterizes the porous spaces with variable porosity and permeability. Governing fractional PDEs are nonlinear and solved numerically with finite‐difference discretization and the L1‐ algorithm. The results show that heat transfer rate enhanced 8% by enhancing the thermal fractional parameter. It is also found that the combination of two nanoparticles in water significantly contributes to heat transfer compared to the presence of a single particle. Further, thermal radiation significantly contributes to heat transfer in fluid flow. Not surprisingly, hybrid particles have excellent performance at high loads and diverse velocity cases.
White Fluff/Black Pigment: Health Commodity Culture and Victorian Imperial Geographies of Dependence
Authors: Pietrzak-Franger Monika
Published: March 2023

Victorian travel, like larger patterns of migration, was associated with a myriad of health hazards that were often seen as dangerous to the “civilisational mission” of the British Empire and its economic aspirations. Within this context, specific prescriptive regimes and consumer practices—and, with them, hand-selected “tropical outfits”—provided a portablecordon sanitaireto travellers, explorers, and the “builders” of the British Empire. Tropical outfits—a variety of objects expertly selected for the voyage—were sold with the intention of “easing” the journey’s hardships while inevitably also propelling the exchange of goods between the metropolitan centre and the colonies. This chapter re-evaluates the role of “tropical outfits”, especially “tropical clothing”, by drawing attention to their material significance within the colonial but also domestic geographies of health and disease. Monika Pietrzak-Franger argues that the juxtaposition of the outfits’ sites of consumption with those of their production sheds light on the transcontinental networks of health and disease that otherwise remain obscured.