bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Strain‐Free GaSb Quantum Dots as Single‐Photon Sources in the Telecom S‐Band
Authors: Michl Johannes , Peniakov Giora , Pfenning Andreas , Hilska Joonas , Chellu Abhiroop , Bader Andreas , Guina Mircea , Höfling Sven , Hakkarainen Teemu , Huber‐Loyola Tobias
Published: October 2023

Generating single photons in the telecommunication wavelength range from semiconductor quantum dots (QDs) and interfacing them with spins of electrons or holes is of high interest in recent years, with research mainly focusing on indium‐based QDs. However, there is not much data on the optical and spin properties of gallium antimonide (GaSb) QDs, despite it being a physically rich system with an indirect to direct bandgap crossover in the telecom wavelength range. This work investigates the (quantum‐) optical properties of GaSb QDs, which are fabricated by filling droplet‐etched nanoholes in an aluminum gallium antimonide (AlGaSb) matrix. Photoluminescence (PL) features from isolated and highly symmetric QDs are observed that exhibit narrow linewidth in the telecom S‐band and show an excitonic fine structure splitting of up to µeV. Moreover, time‐resolved measurements of the decay characteristics of an exciton are performed and the second‐order photon autocorrelation function of the charge complex is measured to , revealing clear antibunching and thus proving the capability of this material platform to generate non‐classical light.
Pregnancy‐specific dietary guidelines for Americans are not met: Findings from a pilot study
Authors: El Habbal Noura , Filatava Evgenia J. , Overton Nicolette E. , Gregas Matt , Gregory Katherine E.
Published: October 2023

Objective

To assess maternal dietary intake during pregnancy and adherence to the 2020–2025 pregnancy‐specific Dietary Guidelines for Americans (DGA).

Methods

This was a retrospective observational study. The study population consisted of women who gave birth to term infants (>37 weeks of gestation). Participants were given the Dietary Screener Questionnaire (DSQ) after birth and asked to recall their dietary intake in the last month of pregnancy. Participants' estimated dietary intakes were then compared to the 2020–2025 DGA which includes specific recommendations for pregnant women.

Results

Out of 51 women who completed the DSQ, none consumed the recommended amounts of all surveyed dietary factors. Specifically, only one woman (2%) met the recommended intake of fruits, 11 women (22%) met the recommended intake of calcium, 25 women (49%) exceeded the recommended upper limit for added sugar intake, and none of the women (0%) met the intake of vegetables, whole grains, dairy and fiber.

Conclusion

Women in our study did not adhere to the pregnancy‐specific DGA recommendations in the last month of pregnancy. Our findings underscore the need to increase maternal nutritional awareness and education to improve adherence to the DGA.
Chasing the rainbow: Exploiting photosensitizers to drive photoisomerization reactions
Authors: Wang Zhihang , Fernandez Lorette , Aslam Adil S. , Shamsabadi Monika , Muhammad Lidiya M. , Moth‐Poulsen Kasper
Published: October 2023

Photoswitchable molecules have garnered considerable attention for their versatility and diverse applications, spanning from solar energy harvesting and storage to drug delivery and molecular motors. The chemical conversions that make photoswitches a desirable system are driven by specific wavelengths of light, which often demand intricate molecular modifications. An alternative approach to achieve the photoisomerization reaction is through energy transfer with photosensitizers. Photosensitizers play a pivotal role in various light‐induced processes and have demonstrated successful applications in photodynamic therapy, dye‐sensitized solar cells, and activating photochemical reactions. Therefore, combining photoswitching systems with sensitizers presents an attractive alternative for advancing light‐responsive material design and enabling innovative light‐controlled technologies. This review summarizes the energy transfer mechanisms and strategies involved in sensitized molecular photoswitchable systems, emphasizing the performance of various combined systems, and potential applications. Furthermore, recent advances and emerging trends in this field are also discussed, offering insights into prospective future directions for the development of light‐responsive materials.
The impact of clean energy consumption, green innovation, and technological diffusion on environmental sustainability: New evidence from load capacity curve hypothesis for 10 European Union countries
Authors: Aydin Mucahit , Degirmenci Tunahan
Published: October 2023

Today, when climate change and environmental degradation are experienced, environmental sustainability comes to the fore. The most important component of environmental sustainability is undoubtedly technology and innovation. This study examines the effects of clean energy consumption, green innovation, and technological diffusion on environmental sustainability from 1990 to 2018 in selected European Union countries. This relationship has been frequently examined in the literature within the framework of the environmental Kuznets curve (EKC) hypothesis. The number of studies examining it within the load capacity curve (LCC) hypothesis framework is negligible. This study aims to fill the gap in the literature in the context of examining the relationship within the framework of the LCC hypothesis. For this purpose, Westerlund's (2008) panel cointegration test was applied, and cointegration was determined in the LCC model. Three different long‐term estimators, namely rCCE, DCCE, and AMG, were used to test the validity of the hypothesis. Although the results obtained for the entire panel say that the LCC hypothesis is not valid, evidence for the existence of the hypothesis has been identified in the country‐based results. Accordingly, the LCC hypothesis is valid for Denmark, France, Portugal, and Spain. Overall, green innovation and technological diffusion are essential to encourage the spread of environmentally friendly practices and to leave a more livable world for future generations.
On semiparametric accelerated failure time models with time‐varying covariates: A maximum penalised likelihood estimation
Authors: Ma Ding , Ma Jun , Graham Petra L.
Published: October 2023

The accelerated failure time (AFT) model offers an important and useful alternative to the conventional Cox proportional hazards model, particularly when the proportional hazards assumption for a Cox model is violated. Since an AFT model is basically a log‐linear model, meaningful interpretations of covariate effects on failure times can be made directly. However, estimation of a semiparametric AFT model imposes computational challenges even when it only has time‐fixed covariates, and the situation becomes much more complicated when time‐varying covariates are included. In this paper, we propose a penalised likelihood approach to estimate the semiparametric AFT model with right‐censored failure time, where both time‐fixed and time‐varying covariates are permitted. We adopt the Gaussian basis functions to construct a smooth approximation to the nonparametric baseline hazard. This model fitting method requires a constrained optimisation approach. A comprehensive simulation study is conducted to demonstrate the performance of the proposed method. An application of our method to a motor neuron disease data set is provided.
Modulating Electronic Structure by Etching Strategy to Construct NiSe2/Ni0.85Se Heterostructure for Urea‐Assisted Hydrogen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Wu Kaili , Lyu Chaojie , Cheng Jiarun , Guo Zhonglu , Li Hongyu , Zhu Xixi , Lau Woon‐Ming , Zheng Jinlong
Published: October 2023

Exploring and developing novel strategies for constructing heterostructure electrocatalysts is still challenging for water electrolysis. Herein, a creative etching treatment strategy is adopted to construct NiSe2/Ni0.85Se heterostructure. The rich heterointerfaces between NiSe2 and Ni0.85Se emerge strong electronic interaction, which easily induces the electron transfer from NiSe2 to Ni0.85Se, and tunes the charge‐state of NiSe2 and Ni0.85Se. In the NiSe2/Ni0.85Se heterojunction nanomaterial, the higher charge‐state Ni0.85Se is capable of affording partial electrons to combine with hydrogen protons, inducing the rapid formation of H2 molecule. Accordingly, the lower charge‐state NiSe2 in the NiSe2/Ni0.85Se heterojunction nanomaterial is more easily oxidized into high valence state Ni3+ during the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) process, which is beneficial to accelerate the mass/charge transfer and enhance the electrocatalytic activities towards OER. Theoretical calculations indicate that the heterointerfaces are conducive to modulating the electronic structure and optimizing the adsorption energy toward intermediate H* during the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) process, leading to superior electrocatalytic activities. To expand the application of the NiSe2/Ni0.85Se‐2h electrocatalyst, urea is served as the adjuvant to proceed with the energy‐saving hydrogen production and pollutant degradation, and it is proven to be a brilliant strategy.
Surface Glass Transition Temperature Region of Diarylethene Films Determined by Nano‐Marangoni Effect
Authors: Tsujioka Tsuyoshi , Yamabayashi Keishi , Kotani Kazuma
Published: October 2023

For the last two decades, research has addressed whether the glass transition temperature and the molecular motions on the surface of organic films are significantly different from those inside the bulk glasses. It is reported that the surface of the photochromic diarylethene film prepared by vacuum deposition has fluidity and the vacuum deposition of small amount of rubrene molecules induces surface tension fluctuations, generating dents due to the Marangoni flow in nanoscale. The depth of the dents increases in proportion to these radii for the colorless diarylethene film with a bulk glass transition temperature (Tg) close to room temperature. On the other hand, in the colored diarylethene obtained by UV irradiation to the colorless film, the depth becomes constant at a certain level. The Tg distribution in the depth direction is clarified based on an analysis of the dent depth. By approximating the obtained Tg depth distribution with an exponential function, the outermost surface Tg is about 100 K lower than the bulk Tg in the case of photoisomerized diarylethene.
Targeting PD‐L1 with DNA Aptamers and Conjugated with Gemcitabine as a Novel Therapeutic Strategy for Bladder Cancer Chemotherapy Combined with Immunotherapy
Authors: Hu Xing , Zeng Hongliang , Peng Yongbo , Deng Minhua , Xiang Wei , Liu Biao , Liu Jiahao , Fu Yunlong , Hu Zhiqiang , Hou Weibin , Liu Xuewen , Tang Jin , Long Zhi , Wang Long , Liu Jianye
Published: October 2023

Due to the poor stability and adverse effects of chemotherapy drugs, such as gemcitabine, the current effectiveness of traditional chemotherapy is minimal. Some patients also show a low response rate to immunotherapy. Therefore, a novel material PD‐L1‐GEMs is designed and synthesized with targeted specificity. PD‐L1‐GEMs specifically bind to bladder cancer cells. Free gemcitabine cleaved by a phosphatase enters bladder cancer cells through the macropinocytosis pathway and induces cytotoxicity. PD‐L1‐GEMs show good stability, binding specificity, and significant inhibitory effects in vitro. Two bladder tumor models (subcutaneous model and in situ model) show inhibition of growth and progression in PD‐L1‐GEMs treatment, as well as good biosafety in vivo. The PD‐L1 aptamer blocks the binding of PD‐L1 on the tumor cell surface to PD‐1 on T lymphocytes, restoring their immune function, inducing cytokine production and aggregation, and exerting an immune killing role on bladder cancer cells. PD‐L1‐GEMs represent a successful chemotherapy–immunotherapy strategy for bladder cancer.
DeepMDFC: A deep learning based android malware detection and family classification method
Authors: Sharma Sandeep , Ahlawat Prachi , Khanna Kavita
Published: October 2023

Unprecedented growth and prevalent adoption of the Android Operating System (OS) have triggered a substantial transformation, not only within the smartphone industry but across various categories of intelligent devices. These intelligent devices store a wealth of sensitive data, making them enticing targets for malicious individuals who create harmful Android applications to steal this data for malicious purposes. While numerous Android malware detection methods have been proposed, the exponential growth in sophisticated and malicious Android apps presents an unprecedented challenge to existing detection techniques. Some of the researchers have attempted to classify malicious Android applications into families through static analysis of applications but most of them are evaluated on applications of previous API levels. This paper introduces a novel dataset compromising of 2019 to 2021 applications and proposes a Deep Learning based Malware Detection and Family Classification method (DeepMDFC) to detect and classify emerging malicious Android applications through static analysis and deep Artificial Neural Networks. Experimental findings indicate that DeepMDFC surpasses standard machine learning algorithms, achieving accuracy rates of 99.3% and 96.7% for Android malware detection and classification, respectively, with a limited size feature set. The performance of DeepMDFC is also assessed using the benchmark dataset (DREBIN) and results showed that DeepMDFC surpasses these methods in terms of performance. Furthermore, it leverages the proposed dataset to construct a prediction model that adeptly identifies malicious Android applications from both the years 2022 and 2023. This process the potency and resilience of DeepMDFC against emerging Android applications.
On the use of ordered factors as explanatory variables
Authors: Azzalini Adelchi
Published: October 2023

Consider a regression or some regression‐type model for a certain response variable where the linear predictor includes an ordered factor among the explanatory variables. The inclusion of a factor of this type can take place in a few different ways, discussed in the pertaining literature. The present contribution proposes a different way of tackling this problem, by constructing a numeric variable in an alternative way with respect to the current methodology. The proposed technique appears to retain the data fitting capability of the existing methodology but with a simpler interpretation of the model components.
Toward presenting an ensemble meta‐model for evaluation of pozzolanic mixtures incorporating industrial by‐products
Authors: Ashrafian Ali , Behnood Ali , Golafshani Emadaldin Mohammadi , Panahi Elahe , Berenjian Javad
Published: October 2023

Unsustainable development in the industry has increased the challenge of proper disposal of industrial by‐products and has caused environmental pollution on a large scale. Furthermore, minimizing the carbon dioxide emissions due to industrial and environmental activities is a crucial challenge to controlling the global warming crisis and climate change. The use of industrial by‐product‐based supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs) can reduce fossil fuel consumption through the reduction in cement production and contribute to suitable waste management. In this research, a meta‐model was developed using integration of the decision tree‐based method named reduced error pruning tree (REPtree) and ensemble approaches (boosting and bagging) to improve the pruning phase for strength simulation of concrete mixtures incorporating industrial by‐products. Then, ensemble multiple learning algorithms were applied to develop a meta‐model using the artificial neural network and Gaussian process regression. A comprehensive experimental‐based database incorporating 3836 records from short‐term to long‐term compressive strength (CS) was collected from the literature. Performance measures present that the proposed ensemble boosting‐REPtree model outperforms other benchmark and ensemble models with a correlation coefficient of 0.960 and root mean square error of 7.884 MPa. Also, uncertainty evaluation was done based on the Monte Carlo simulation algorithm in the modeling process. The FAST and SOBOL methods, as global sensitivity analysis, presented water‐to‐binder (W/B) ratio, curing time, and SCMs to binder ratio (SCM/B) as critical components to estimate the CS of concrete mixtures. The computational simulation of the influential parameters on concrete mixtures incorporating industrial by‐products revealed that the experimental factors yielding the highest CS of the mixtures were calculated as follows: cement content of 584 kg/m3, W/B ratio of 0.17, superplasticizer‐to‐cement ratio of 1.88%, and SCM/B ratio of 0.15.
Material recycling in a circular economy—A systems view
Authors: Gheewala Shabbir H.
Published: October 2023

A circular economy is expected to reduce the use of primary resources through the reuse of products, components, and materials. Material recycling, though advantageous in many cases for saving primary resources by diverting them away from the landfill, may have perverse effects when analyzed from a systems perspective considering the entire material life cycle as well as economy‐wide effects of recycling. Using the case of metals, glass, and plastics recycling, the advantages of a systems view including the entire material life cycle in analyzing material recycling are illustrated. The advantages of recycling as compared to virgin production may vary significantly depending of the energy and resource requirements during the recycling process, logistics, and alloying of materials. Expanding the systems view further to analyze the economy‐wide effects of material recycling reveal the possibility of rebound effects which may reduce or even negate its advantages. Sustainable consumption is absolutely essential along with any technological advances to counter the rebound effects that may lead to overshoot. The article demonstrates the importance of considering a systems view incorporating a life cycle perspective and economy‐wide effects in analyzing and trying to maintain the advantages of material recycling.

This article is categorized under:

Climate and Environment > Circular Economy

Emerging Technologies > Materials

Climate and Environment > Pollution Prevention
Rethinking Development and Decolonising Development Studies
Authors: Biekart Kees , Camfield Laura , Kothari Uma , Melber Henning
Published: October 2023

The COVID-19 pandemic, which led to almost seven million deaths (WHO inStatistics on COVID-19, 2022), revealed the world to be even more complex and unequal than previously thought. It brought to the fore the need to rethink the ‘fault lines’ since global inequalities had clearly worsened (Taylor and Tremblay inDecolonising Knowledge for Development in the COVID-19 Era. Institute of Development Studies, Brighton, 2022) as vulnerable people in the Global South suffered most from the consequences of the pandemic.
Development and Post-development in a Time of Crisis
Authors: Saad-Filho Alfredo
Published: October 2023

The field of development studies has always presented difficult challenges for policymakers, academics, practitioners, journalists and concerned citizens. Methodologically, these challenges can be usefully approached from two angles.
Decolonising Development Management: Epistemological Shifts and Practical Actions
Authors: Scott Caitlin
Published: October 2023

The processes and tasks of decolonising development are complex and multifaceted. In relation to this, my comment reflects on how development management might be decolonised and re-imagined. I argue that the increased standardisation of ever more invasive tools and technologies for planning and management in the international aid sector amount to a kind of colonisation by bureaucratisation. The ideas that underpin these enmesh actors and organisations in forms of market coloniality that functions across and through the hierarchies of the aid industry. These institutions and processes are extensions of colonial power relations, predicated upon powerful myths of modernisation, and justifying complex and demanding technocratic processes that conceal the political nature of the sector. I conclude that for the aid sector to move from universalist western frameworks of modernity and science to a pluriverse of practice (Narayanaswamy, 2022) requires a total transformation of purpose and systems, given that the aid sector is itself an expression of colonial regimes.
What Is ‘Development’ and Can We ‘Decolonise’ It? Some Ontological and Epistemological Reflections
Authors: Narayanaswamy Lata
Published: October 2023

‘Development’ is at a crossroads, as ‘decolonising’ is the buzzword with which a growing coterie of stakeholders are attempting to grapple, including in Higher Education (HE). In this Epilogue I will briefly consider some of the epistemological challenges of how we ‘know’ development in HE, using these critiques to highlight the ontological tensions of ‘development’ in its discourse and practice. Do we as ‘development’ researchers need to reflect on our role in the persistent ahistoricity, and the resultant artificial North-South binaries, of our discipline? Are ‘development’ researchers part of the problem?
Beyond the Sustainable Development Goals: Post-development Alternatives
Authors: Ziai Aram
Published: October 2023

This chapter argues that the Sustainable Development Goals are inadequate to solve the problems of global inequality and sustainability for several reasons. Going beyond the SDGs and the paradigm of ‘development’, Post-development alternatives are illustrated with exam ples of NGOs and social movements in Senegal, India and Mexico.
Cultivating Post-development: Pluriversal Transitions and Radical Spaces of Engagement
Authors: Castro-Sotomayor José , Minoia Paola
Published: October 2023

The current planetary scale of the problems humanity faces and the increasing sense of urgency in the face of climate havoc offers the opportunity for an epistemological and ontological tour de force that is vital to cultivate alternative civilisational frameworks to replace development-as-modernisation praxes. This chapter presents ways of theorising and practising pluriversal knowledge and agency to cultivate post-development futures. We argue that to cultivate postdevelopment in a world of different colonial histories entangled with imperial modernity, post-development practitioners should depart from culturalist and anthropocentric notions of identity, embrace place-based embodied experiences, and attend to nonhuman voices and agency. First, we present the generative concept and framework of ecocultural identity and elaborate on how this encompassing notion may contribute to pluriversal transitions in environmental governance. Then, we redirect our attention to territory and territoriality as strategic constructions of space that entail spiritual, material, and political dimensions of engagement that are at the core of the praxis of post-development praxis. Third, we reflect on the multiple voices and agencies implicated in the germination of pluriversal worlds and show the challenges and opportunities social and political movements face in advancing alternatives to development. In closing, we suggest entry points and avenues to nourish creative and hopeful political imaginations and invigorate regenerative ethical frames of actions and care.
Assuming Power in New Forms: Learning to Feel ‘With the Other’ in Decolonial Research
Authors: Armijos M. Teresa , Acosta Luis David , Calder Eliza S. , Gaviria William , Giraldo Daniela , Pineda Jaime , Rabe Carolina , Sanaguano Pablo , Zambrano Lina Andrea
Published: October 2023

The chapter aims to contribute to the important endeavour of decolonising Disaster Risk Studies, and more broadly, Development Studies, by focusing on the researcher and how they (and therefore the knowledge they produce) change with and through the emotions embedded in the research process (Dauder and Trejo, 2020). Through a series of individual narratives, we explore how the researcher's multiplicity of positionalities are transformed by the research process in its circular relationship with emotions that emerge and, in turn, inform it. In doing so, we recognise the plural forms of knowledge production (Escobar, 2003) that transcend the realm of 'thinking' to acknowledge ethical, emotional and relational commitments in the research process (Cahill 2007b). We argue the this is a step towards both admitting vulnerability and assuming power and knowledge in new forms, while also challenging dualisms often present in Western thinking and their associated hierarchies and hegemonies (Dauder and Trejo 2021; Cahill 2007b).
Introduction to the Book
Authors: Ahokangas Petri , Aagaard Annabeth
Published: October 2023

The introductory chapter provides an overview of the purpose and aim of the book, and how it contributes to the ongoing development and discussions of ICT, 5G, and 6G. We also elaborate on who should read the book, and why and how we developed it. We introduce the structure of the book and provide a short presentation of each chapter.
Opportunities and Implications Related to Future Mobile Communications
Authors: Ahokangas Petri , Aagaard Annabeth , Yrjölä Seppo , Matinmikko-Blue Marja , Timmers Paul , Serentschy Georg , Gordon Jillian , Atkova Irina , Hurmelinna-Laukkanen Pia , Arslan Ahmad , Iivari Marika , Gisca Oxana
Published: October 2023

This chapter discusses the research, managerial, and policymaking-related future opportunities and implications that stem from the discussions presented in the preceding chapters. With a focus on overarching themes that concern everyone, the paper presents research questions to direct future research, advises managers in themes that may become of increasing interest in future 5G and 6G, and summarizes key concerns for policymaking that should be considered to reach a global 6G and beyond world.
Future Scenarios and Anticipated Impacts of 6G
Authors: Yrjölä Seppo , Ahokangas Petri , Matinmikko-Blue Marja
Published: October 2023

This chapter examines future scenarios of 6G at different levels of analysis. The chapter starts by identifying and assessing key change political, environmental, social, technological, and legal forces—trends and uncertainties—related to future mobile communications and proposes a set of dimensions according to which we may expect 6G to change the world. Based on the proposed dimension, the chapter presents a set of future scenarios related to mobile connectivity integrated with various services at the user (humans and machines), business (service provisioning and utilization), business ecosystem value chain (upstream and downstream), and geopolitical levels of analysis. The chapter concludes by presenting the future of mobile connectivity and its potential outcomes at the societal level.
Value Creation and Services in Mobile Communications
Authors: Aagaard Annabeth , Ahokangas Petri , Iivari Marika , Atkova Irina , Yrjölä Seppo , Matinmikko-Blue Marja
Published: October 2023

This chapter explores the opportunities for value creation via the services enabled by the fifth (5G) and sixth (6G) generation of mobile communications. The chapter starts with a discussion on value creation in general and discusses value creation at service, platform, and ecosystem levels of analysis. We present the 5G and 6G usage cases as starting points and highlight the drivers of value creation and the key services enabled by the mobile communications technology generations. In 5G, the focus is on deployments of public commercial networks, public commercial virtual networks, neutral hosts, private local networks operated by MNOs, private local networks operated by others than MNOs, and public network integrated non-public networks. In 6G, the focus is on new capability usage case candidates that will be represented by immersive communications, connecting intelligence, sensing for sustainability, and connecting the unconnected.
Local 5G/6G Network Business in Europe: Regulatory Analysis and Legitimacy Considerations
Authors: Gisca Oxana , Matinmikko-Blue Marja , Ahokangas Petri , Yrjölä Seppo , Gordon Jillian
Published: October 2023

Local 5G/6G mobile communication networks can be deployed by different stakeholders to serve a variety of user groups with different needs. The legal framework influencing local 5G/6G network deployments and operations, the EU Digital Legal Framework, has been recently developed and adopted by the EU, influencing network deployments, and impacting new stakeholders’ ability to become accepted and legitimate members of the mobile ecosystem. This chapter identifies and discusses relevant EU legal acts and presents the EU legal initiatives in the context of local mobile communication networks. It reviews previous research from the legitimacy challenge perspective and adds to a better understanding of how regulation currently delimits the emerging business models of the local 5G/6G networks. The chapter concludes by discussing the implications of the analysis for regulators and firms deploying local 5G/6G networks.
The General Theory of Superoscillations and Supershifts in Several Variables
Authors: Colombo F. , Pinton S. , Sabadini I. , Struppa D. C.
Published: October 2023

In this paper we describe a general method to generate superoscillatory functions of several variables starting from a superoscillating sequence of one variable. Our results are based on the study of suitable infinite order differential operators acting on holomorphic functions with growth conditions of exponential type. Additional constraints are required when dealing with infinite order differential operators whose symbol is a function that is holomorphic in some open set, but not necessarily entire. The results proved for superoscillating sequences in several variables are extended to sequences of supershifts in several variables.
Introgression of the bread wheat D genome encoded Lr34/Yr18/Sr57/Pm38/Ltn1 adult plant resistance gene into Triticum turgidum (durum wheat)
Authors: Li Hongyu , Zhang Peng , Luo Ming , Hoque Mohammad , Chakraborty Soma , Brooks Brenton , Li Jianbo , Singh Smriti , Forest Kerrie , Binney Allan , Zhang Lianquan , Mather Diane , Ayliffe Michael
Published: October 2023

Key Message

Lack of function of a D-genome adult plant resistance gene upon introgression into durum wheat.

The wheat Lr34/Yr18/Sr57/Pm38/Ltn1 adult plant resistance gene (Lr34), located on chromosome arm 7DS, provides broad spectrum, partial, adult plant resistance to leaf rust, stripe rust, stem rust and powdery mildew. It has been used extensively in hexaploid bread wheat (AABBDD) and conferred durable resistance for many decades. These same diseases also occur on cultivated tetraploid durum wheat and emmer wheat but transfer of D genome sequences to those subspecies is restricted due to very limited intergenomic recombination. Herein we have introgressed the Lr34 gene into chromosome 7A of durum wheat. Durum chromosome substitution line Langdon 7D(7A) was crossed to Cappelli ph1c, a mutant derivative of durum cultivar Cappelli homozygous for a deletion of the chromosome pairing locus Ph1. Screening of BC1F2 plants and their progeny by KASP and PCR markers, 90 K SNP genotyping and cytology identified 7A chromosomes containing small chromosome 7D fragments encoding Lr34. However, in contrast to previous transgenesis experiments in durum wheat, resistance to wheat stripe rust was not observed in either Cappelli/Langdon 7D(7A) or Bansi durum plants carrying this Lr34 encoding segment due to low levels of Lr34 gene expression. Key message
Arthroscopic all‐inside ligament repair has similar or superior clinical outcomes compared to open repair for chronic ankle instability without concomitant intra‐articular pathology at 5 years follow‐up
Authors: Guelfi Matteo , Baalbaki Rayan , Malagelada Francesc , Dalmau‐Pastor Miki , Vega Jordi
Published: October 2023

Purpose

Open ligament repair is widely considered the gold standard treatment for chronic ankle instability. Nevertheless, arthroscopic treatment of ankle instability has gained popularity becoming the preferred technique for many surgeons. This study aimed to compare the clinical outcomes of all‐inside arthroscopic versus open lateral ligament repair for chronic ankle instability at 5 years follow‐up.

Methods

Ninety consecutive patients were surgically treated for chronic ankle instability without concomitant intra‐articular pathology observed on MRI: 41 patients [median age 28 (range 15–54) years] underwent an open lateral ligament repair (OLR); 49 patients [median age 30 (range 19–47) years] underwent an all‐inside arthroscopic ligament repair (ALR). Functional outcomes using the Foot Functional Index (FFI), the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) Hindfoot Score, and the Foot and Ankle Ability Measure‐Sports Subscale (FAAM‐SS) were assessed preoperatively and at the latest follow‐up. At the latest follow‐up, the satisfaction rate and complications were also recorded.

Results

The mean follow‐up was 58 ± 17.6 (range 47–81) months. In both groups FFI, AOFAS and FAAM‐SS score significantly improved compared to preoperative values (p < 0.001). There was no statistically significant difference in postoperative outcomes between groups in the AOFAS (n.s) and FAAM‐SS (n.s), but the FFI results were significantly better in the ALR group (p < 0.05). No major complications were reported in either group.

Conclusion

Open and arthroscopic ligament repair to treat chronic ankle instability without concomitant intra‐articular pathology produced excellent comparable clinical outcomes at 5 years follow‐up. The complications were minimal in both study groups with no significant differences in AOFAS and FAAM‐SS scores. However, arthroscopic repair showed significantly better results on the FFI. Therefore, when treating chronic lateral ankle instability, surgeons should consider arthroscopic ligament repair.

Level of evidence

III.
Selective ionization of oxidized lipid species using different solvent additives in flow injection mass spectrometry
Authors: Lazaridi Eleni , Hennebelle Marie , Hollebrands Boudewijn , Hageman Jos , Vincken Jean-Paul , Janssen Hans-Gerd
Published: October 2023

Lipid oxidation in food products is a crucial problem that causes undesirable changes in the food’s flavor, texture, and nutritional value. It should be carefully monitored as it can lead to the formation of potentially toxic compounds and in that way reduce the shelf life of the product. Liquid chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry is a powerful tool to monitor the formation of oxidized lipids. However, the presence of lipid species in both their non-oxidized and oxidized forms at distinctly different concentrations can hinder the detection and identification of the less abundant oxidized species, due to coelution. In this study, a flow injection mass spectrometry approach was used to selectively ionize oxidized triacylglycerols versus their non-oxidized precursors. Three mobile phase additives were investigated (ammonium formate, sodium acetate, and sodium iodide) at three different concentrations, and ion source settings (i.e., sheath gas temperature, capillary voltage, and nozzle voltage) were optimized. A fractional factorial design was conducted to examine not only the direct effect of the operating parameters on the selectivity of ionization for the oxidized lipid species, but also to assess their combined effect. Overall, selective ionization of oxidized versus non-oxidized lipid species was favored by the use of sodium-containing solvent additives. The application of specific ion source settings resulted in an increased ionization selectivity, with sheath gas temperature and capillary voltage having the most significant influence. A selectivity factor as high as 120 could be reached by combining 0.1 mg/mL sodium-containing additives, with 250 °C sheath gas temperature and 5000 V capillary voltage. These findings will contribute to future studies on fast detection and relative quantification of low abundant oxidized triacylglycerols and their possible impact on human health.

Graphical abstract
Bis-indole-derived NR4A1 antagonists inhibit colon tumor and splenic growth and T-cell exhaustion
Authors: Mohankumar Kumaravel , Wright Gus , Kumaravel Subhashree , Shrestha Rupesh , Zhang Lei , Abdelrahim Maen , Chapkin Robert S. , Safe Stephen
Published: October 2023

There is evidence that the orphan nuclear receptor 4A1 (NR4A1, Nur77) is overexpressed in exhausted CD8 + T cells and regulates PD-L1 in tumors. This study investigated the effects of potent bis-indole-derived NR4A1 antagonists on reversing T-cell exhaustion and downregulating PD-L1 in colon tumors/cells. NR4A1 antagonists inhibited colon tumor growth and downregulated expression of PD-L1 in mouse colon MC-38-derived tumors and cells. TILs from MC-38 cell-derived colon tumors and splenic lymphocytes exhibited high levels of the T-cell exhaustion markers including PD-1, 2B4, TIM3+ and TIGIT and similar results were observed in the spleen, and these were inhibited by NR4A1 antagonists. In addition, treatment with NR4A1 antagonists induced cytokine activation markers interferon γ, granzyme B and perforin mRNAs and decreased TOX, TOX2 and NFAT in TIL-derived CD8 + T cells. Thus, NR4A1 antagonists decrease NR4A1-dependent pro-oncogenic activity and PD-L1 expression in colon tumors and inhibit NR4A1-dependent T-cell exhaustion in TILs and spleen and represent a novel class of mechanism-based drugs that enhance immune surveillance in tumors.
Microbiome composition and central serotonergic activity in patients with depression and type 1 diabetes
Authors: Flasbeck Vera , Hirsch Julia , Petrak Frank , Meier Juris J. , Herpertz Stephan , Gatermann Sören , Juckel Georg
Published: October 2023

The role of gut–brain axis functioning gains growing attention in research on the pathophysiology of major depressive disorders. Here, especially consequences of altered microbiota composition on tryptophan metabolism resulting in altered serotonergic neurotransmission in the central nervous system (CNS) have reached a central position. Previous research, however, mainly focused on either microbiota and peripheral serotonin levels or central serotonergic neurotransmission. The present study aimed to combine the analysis of microbiota composition and central serotonergic activity using a valid neurophysiological indicator. We recruited 19 adult patients with type 1 diabetes and depression (D + D; 7 males), 19 patients with type 1 diabetes (D-; 7 male), and 20 healthy participants (HC; 7 males). Next to the analysis of fecal microbiota regarding α- and β-diversity, the loudness dependence of auditory evoked potential (LDAEP) was investigated, a non-invasive measurement of central serotonergic activity. High α-diversity was associated with high LDAEP, i.e., low serotonergic activity, in patients with diabetes and additional depression. Furthermore, relative abundances of bacterial families belonging to Bacteroidetes, Proteobacteria and Firmicutes were shown to have an impact on central serotonergic activity. This finding was supported by a tendency indicating an association of central serotonergic activity with the Bacteroidetes–Firmicutes ratio in both patients’ groups. Together, this data suggests that the guts’ microbiota composition might play an important role in regulating the central serotonergic activity in the brain.
Decoding the nanoscale porosity in serpentinites from multidimensional electron microscopy and discrete element modelling
Authors: Chogani Alireza , Plümper Oliver
Published: October 2023

Serpentinites, widespread in Earth's lithosphere, exhibit inherent nanoporosity that may significantly impact their geochemical behaviour. This study provides a comprehensive investigation into the characteristics, scale dependence, and potential implications of nanoporosity in lizardite-dominated serpentinites. Through a combination of multidimensional imaging techniques and molecular-dynamics-based discrete element modelling, we reveal that serpentinites function as nanoporous media with pore sizes predominantly less than 100 nm. Crystallographic relationships between olivine, serpentine, and nanoporosity are explored, indicating a lack of significant correlations. Instead, stochastic growth and random packing of serpentine grains within mesh cores may result in interconnected porosity. The analysis of pore morphology suggests that the irregular pore shapes align with the crystal form of serpentine minerals. Furthermore, the nanoporosity within brucite-rich layers at the serpentine-olivine interface is attributed to delamination along weak van der Waals planes, while pore formation within larger brucite domains likely results from low-temperature alteration processes. The fractal nature of the pore size distribution and the potential interconnectivity of porosity across different scales further support the presence of a pervasive nanoporous network within serpentinites. Confinement within these nanopores may introduce unique emergent properties, potentially influencing fluid transport, mineral solubility, and chemical reactions. As such, these processes may have profound implications for the geochemical evolution of serpentinites.
Clinical outcome after thrombectomy in patients with MeVO stroke: importance of clinical and technical factors
Authors: Nome Terje , Enriquez Brian , Nome Cecilie G. , Tennøe Bjørn , Lund Christian G. , Skjelland Mona , Aamodt Anne Hege , Beyer Mona
Published: October 2023

Background and aims

Whereas high-level evidence has been proven for safety and efficacy of endovascular treatment (EVT) in large vessel occlusion (LVO) stroke, the evidence for EVT in medium vessel occlusion (MeVO) in both sexes and different age groupremains to be answered. The aim of this study was to evaluate the importance of clinical and technical parameters, focusing on sex, age and EVT procedural factors, on functional outcome in primary MeVO (pMeVO) strokes.

Methods

144 patients with pMeVO in the MCA territory from the Oslo Acute Reperfusion Stroke Study (OSCAR) were included. Clinical and radiological data were collected including 90-day mRS follow-up.

Results

Successful reperfusion with modified thrombolysis in cerebral infarction (mTICI) ≥ 2b was achieved in 123 patients (84%). Good functional outcome (mRS ≤ 2) at 90-day follow-up was achieved in 84 patients (61.8%). Two or more passes with stent retriever was associated with increased risk of SAH, poor mTICI and poor functional outcome. In average, women had 62 min longer ictus to recanalization time compared to men. Age over 80 years was significantly associated with poor outcome and death.

Conclusion

In pMeVO patients, TICI score and number of passes with stent retriever were the main technical factors predicting mRS ≤ 2. Good clinical outcome occurred almost twice as often in patients under 80 years of age compared to patients over 80 years. Women with MeVO strokes had significant longer time from ictus to recanalization; however, this did not affect the clinical outcome.
Modal and amodal cognition: an overarching principle in various domains of psychology
Authors: Kaup Barbara , Ulrich Rolf , Bausenhart Karin M. , Bryce Donna , Butz Martin V. , Dignath David , Dudschig Carolin , Franz Volker H. , Friedrich Claudia , Gawrilow Caterina , Heller Jürgen , Huff Markus , Hütter Mandy , Janczyk Markus , Leuthold Hartmut , Mallot Hanspeter , Nürk Hans-Christoph , Ramscar Michael , Said Nadia , Svaldi Jennifer , Wong Hong Yu
Published: October 2023

Accounting for how the human mind represents the internal and external world is a crucial feature of many theories of human cognition. Central to this question is the distinction between modal as opposed to amodal representational formats. It has often been assumed that one but not both of these two types of representations underlie processing in specific domains of cognition (e.g., perception, mental imagery, and language). However, in this paper, we suggest that both formats play a major role in most cognitive domains. We believe that a comprehensive theory of cognition requires a solid understanding of these representational formats and their functional roles within and across different domains of cognition, the developmental trajectory of these representational formats, and their role in dysfunctional behavior. Here we sketch such an overarching perspective that brings together research from diverse subdisciplines of psychology on modal and amodal representational formats so as to unravel their functional principles and their interactions.
Flying endoscopists in the Arctic: initiatives for quality assurance of endoscopies in Greenland
Authors: Rasmussen Lise , Krzak Jan M. , Lawaetz Ann-Mari , Holm Steen Erik , Bernth-Andersen Simon , Szura Miroslaw
Published: October 2023

Background

Surgical coastal expeditions (SCEs) have been organized in Greenland for many years. They aim to provide small coastal hospitals with specialist services, such as endoscopies (SCEEs), by deploying specialist personnel, surgeons, and the necessary equipment to the hospital temporarily. The purpose of this program is to increase accessibility for patients, while simultaneously reducing the costs associated with patient transport to the central hospital.

Methods

This retrospective pilot review of medical records identified quality indicators, such as bowel cleansing (BP), cecal intubation rate (CIR), and adenoma and advanced adenoma detection rates (ADR, AADR), to investigate the status and establish a system for quality monitoring of SCEsE in Greenland.

Results

During two SCEs (8 working days), 89 SCEE were performed at Qaqortoq and Sisimiut Hospitals. The 60 patients who underwent colonoscopy included 32 men and 28 women with a mean age of 61 years (range 24–80 years). The unadjusted CIR was 91.7%. In eight (13.3%) examinations, bowel preparation was rated as unsatisfactory, resulting in two incomplete procedures. The ADR and AADR were 35% and 11.7%, respectively, and one cancer was detected (1.7%).

Conclusion

The results showed satisfactory ADR, AADR, and CIR levels. However, the review also highlighted the need for increased attention to BP by developing a new procedure that considers differences due to specific eating habits in Greenland and provides much better information for patients. The review provided a snapshot of the quality of colonoscopies in Greenland, highlighting the necessity to continue this process to ensure that the quality is up to standard. Furthermore, SCE helps reduce the environmental footprint of gastrointestinal endoscopy by avoiding the need for patient air transport; instead of 77 round trips (61,830 km), only 8 (6440 km) were required.