bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Agronomic and morpho‐physiological response of Andean genotypes of common bean to terminal drought
Authors: Hamabwe Swivia M. , Otieno Nicholas A. , Odhiambo Judith A. , Parker Travis , Kamfwa Kelvin
Published: September 2024

Drought is a major production constraint of common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) worldwide. The objectives of this study were to (i) assess the agronomic and morpho‐physiological response of Andean genotypes to terminal drought, and (ii) identify Andean genotypes with an ideal combination of agronomic and morpho‐physiological traits for enhanced drought tolerance. Twenty Andean genotypes and seven checks were evaluated for drought tolerance in three field trials conducted in three locations. Agronomic and morpho‐physiological traits including seed yield, seed weight, shoot dry weight, pod number, pod harvest index, harvest index, and carbon isotope discrimination (CID) were measured. Strong positive correlations were observed between seed yield, and partitioning efficiency metrics and CID (r = 0.57***) under drought, which suggested the important role of assimilate partitioning and water use efficiency in the observed drought tolerance. The heritability estimates for pod harvest index (H2 = 0.88) and harvest index (H2 = 0.87) were higher than for seed yield (H2 = 0.43) and other morpho‐physiological traits, thus they can be used to indirectly select for drought tolerance. Based on the relationship between seed yield and CID under drought stress, 12 genotypes were identified as drought tolerant with high water use efficiency. Among these, three were classified as water savers, while nine as water spenders. Genotypes with an ideal combination of superior shoot dry weight, partition efficiency, water use efficiency, and superior seed yield under both drought stress and non‐stress conditions were identified. The identified genotypes can be used for genetic improvement of drought tolerance in the Andean gene pool of common bean.
Parasites disrupt a keystone mutualism that underpins the structure, functioning, and resilience of a coastal ecosystem
Authors: Morton Joseph P. , Davis Brian P. , Walker Taylor A. , Haber India H. , Adelson Eve H. , Silliman Brian R.
Published: September 2024

Parasites can alter the traits or densities of mutualistic partners, potentially destabilizing mutualistic associations that underpin the structure, functioning, and stability of entire ecosystems. Despite the potentially wide‐ranging consequences of such disruptions, no studies have directly manipulated parasite prevalence and/or intensity in a mutualistic partner, nor quantified the resulting community‐level effects. Here, we investigated the effects of a common trematode parasite (Cercaria opaca) on the strength of a keystone facultative mutualism in western Atlantic salt marshes between the foundational marsh cordgrass, Spartina alterniflora, and the ribbed mussel, Geukensia demissa. Cordgrass increases mussel survivorship and growth through shading, while mussels enhance cordgrass growth by producing nutrient‐rich biodeposits. This mutualistic association also creates conditions that enhance biodiversity and ecosystem functioning, and mediates the ability of foundational plants to resist and recover from extreme drought. We used lab and field assays to show how increasing infection with trematode metacercariae negatively influenced mussel biodeposit production, as well as the strength of mussel shells and byssal attachments. By conducting a field manipulation using experimentally infected mussels, we demonstrated that the mutualistic benefits of mussels to cordgrass growth decreased with increasing trematode infection intensity—a pattern likely generated by reduced mussel biodeposition and enhanced mortality. Additionally, increasing parasite loads in mussels led to predictable decreases in the abundances of benthic invertebrates, as well as in key ecosystem characteristics and process rates (i.e., redox potential and sediment accretion). Finally, a survey of five North Carolina salt marshes demonstrated that infection with C. opaca was most common in mussels in areas experiencing cordgrass die‐off due to drought, and that infection intensity decreased with distance from die‐off areas. Because the mussel–cordgrass mutualism underpins marsh ecosystem resilience to drought‐associated die‐off, our results suggest that parasitism may depress recovery from these disturbances. Although this is the first experimental demonstration of parasites indirectly altering community structure and functioning by undermining an ecologically influential mutualism, this type of relationship could be common in nature, given that parasites frequently infect influential mutualists.
Soil Building and Capillary Barrier–Enhanced Water Availability Help Explain Pisonia grandis and Other Atoll Native's Tolerance for Variable Precipitation Regimes
Authors: Engels Mary , Heinse Robert , Young Hillary
Published: September 2024

Pisonia grandis, now threatened, is an important source of soil organic matter on atoll islands and historically composed the dominant canopy of many atoll ecosystems across the Pacific. How the tree manages water to exist across wide precipitation gradients is poorly understood. This study tests the hypotheses that P. grandis is using organic‐rich soils that develop under their canopy and soil layering where organic soils contact carbonate sands as part of their water management strategy. We analysed the chemical and physical properties of soils from two atolls in the central Pacific Ocean, one wet (Palmyra, USA) and one dry (Nikumaroro, Kiribati). Additionally, we used HYDRUS‐1D to simulate vadose zone water dynamics under a range of organic cap thicknesses (0, 14, 30 and 50 cm), precipitation intensities (1, 5 and 10 cm/h) and average precipitation amounts (50, 100, 200 and 400 cm/yr). Laboratory results indicate organic soils are strongly, though not exclusively, associated with P. grandis. Water holding capacity increases with soil organic carbon up to about 10% but not beyond that amount. Modelling results indicate significant water retained in organic soils where they overlie coarse carbonate sediments suggesting a capillary barrier development as the plant‐mediated organic soil accumulates. Retained soil water extends modelled dry‐down times of root‐accessible soil by more than 3 weeks. This indicates that capillary barrier‐enhanced water availability can help explain how P. grandis and other soil‐building atoll species can exist across variable precipitation regimes. To our knowledge, this work is the first description of plant‐mediated capillary barrier development as a water management strategy.
FRUGIVORY CAMTRAP: A dataset of plant–animal interactions recorded with camera traps
Authors: Villalva Pablo , Arroyo‐Correa Blanca , Calvo Gemma , Homet Pablo , Isla Jorge , Mendoza Irene , Moracho Eva , Quintero Elena , Rodríguez‐Sánchez Francisco , Jordano Pedro
Published: September 2024

Ecological interactions are a key component of biodiversity, essential for understanding ecosystem services and functioning. Recording and quantifying ecological interactions is challenging, frequently requiring complex logistics and substantial effort in the field. Camera traps are routinely used in ecology for various applications, and have proven to be an excellent method for passive and non‐invasive sampling of plant–animal interactions. We implemented a standardized camera trap protocol to document vertebrate frugivores‐fleshy fruited plants interactions in Doñana National Park, SW Spain, with the central objective of inventorying the diversity of plant–animal ecological interactions providing seed dispersal services. From 2018 to 2023 we recorded pairwise interactions from which we obtained qualitative (presence‐absence) and quantitative (frequency of visits) information. Each record in the dataset contains information of a visit by an individual animal to an individual plant, resulting in any form of fleshy‐fruit use and provides information on visitation phenology, visit length, and feeding behavior. The dataset presented here includes 10,659 frugivory interaction events for 59 vertebrate species (46 birds, 13 mammals) recorded on 339 plant individuals from 13 different plant species which dominate the fleshy‐fruited plant assemblage in the Doñana National Park. The most recorded animal species consuming fruits and playing a legitimate seed dispersal role was Curruca melanocephala (1678 records) among birds and Vulpes vulpes among mammals (751 records). Cervus elaphus, a fruit consumer with a marginal role as legitimate seed disperser, was the most recorded mammal species (1508 records). Avian frugivores, particularly those from the Sylviidae and Turdidae families, are widespread in the region and play a crucial role in maintaining the dispersal service for the fleshy‐fruited plant populations in the area. The dataset offers highly versatile quantitative information that can be used to investigate frugivory from the highest resolution scale, the interaction event between pairs of individuals. In addition, other information that can be extracted includes the timing of interactions of animals and plants (their phenological couplings), activity periods of the animals, behavior during the events and preferences for individual plants within populations. There are no copyright restrictions on the data. When using the data from this data paper in publications, we kindly request that you cite the paper accordingly. Additionally, we encourage researchers and educators to inform us about how they are using this data, as we value feedback and would like to be aware of its various applications.
Assessing the causal effect of inflammation‐related genes on myocarditis: A Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Xiao Huazhen , Chen Hongkui , Liang Wenjia , Liu Yucheng , Lin Kaiyang , Guo Yansong
Published: September 2024

Aims

Prior evidence has shown a significant link between inflammation and the development of myocarditis. This study aimed to investigate the causal relationship between inflammation‐related genes (IRGs) and myocarditis.

Methods and results

In this study, the causal relationship between 167 IRGs and myocarditis were investigated using datasets from the Gene Set Enrichment Analysis and Integrative Epidemiology Unit open genome‐wide association study (IEU OpenGWAS) databases. The GWAS data (finn‐b‐I9 MYOCARD) contained single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) data from 117 755 myocarditis samples (16 379 455 SNPs, 829 cases vs. 116 926 controls). Five algorithms [MR‐Egger, weighted median, inverse variance weighted (IVW), simple mode, and weighted mode regression] were employed for the MR analysis, with IVW as the primary method, and sensitivity analysis was conducted. Subcellular localization and protein–protein interaction (PPI) network analyses were performed for selected biomarkers. Results were verified in ebi‐a‐GCST90018882 (24 180 570 SNPs, 633 cases vs. 427 278 controls) and finn‐b‐I9 MYOCARD EXNONE (16 380 466 SNPs, 829 cases vs. 217 963 controls) to enhance reliability.

Results

IRF7 and ADORA2B were shown to be two exposure factors after screening. Univariable MR (UVMR) analysis revealed that IRF7 was a risk factor for myocarditis [IVW: odd ratio (OR) = 1.041, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.018–1.955, P = 0.039], while ADORA2B was a protective factors for myocarditis (IVW: OR = 0.799, 95% CI = 0.640–0.997, P = 0.047). Sensitivity analysis confirmed the robustness of these findings. Multivariable MR (MVMR) analysis further demonstrated a direct causal role of ADORA2B in preventing myocarditis. Subcellular localization analysis indicated predominant cytoplasmic expression and limited mitochondrial expression for both genes. The results of PPI analysis showed that 20 genes were predicted to be associated with IRF7 function, such as response to type I interferon, pattern recognition receptor signalling pathway, and toll‐like receptor signalling pathway. The results in finn‐b‐I9 MYOCARD EXNONE were consistent with MR analysis.

Conclusions

The findings indicated there was a causal connection between IRGs (IRF7 and ADORA2B) and myocarditis, which offered a crucial point of reference and guidance for future studies and myocarditis treatment.
Langerhans cells orchestrate apoptosis of DNA‐damaged keratinocytes upon high‐dose UVB skin exposure
Authors: Ortner Daniela , Strandt Helen , Tripp Christoph H. , Spoeck Sarah , Seretis Athanasios , Hornsteiner Florian , Dieckmann Sophie , Schmuth Matthias , Stoitzner Patrizia
Published: September 2024

Ultraviolet (UV) irradiation of the skin causes mutations that can promote the development of melanoma and nonmelanoma skin cancer. High‐dose UVB exposure triggers a vigorous skin reaction characterized by inflammation resulting in acute sunburn. This response includes the formation of sunburn cells and keratinocytes (KC) undergoing programmed cell death (apoptosis) when repair mechanisms of DNA damage are inadequate. The primary objective of this research was to clarify the involvement of Langerhans cells (LC) in the development of acute sunburn following intense UVB skin irradiation. To address this, we subjected the dorsal skin of mice to a single high‐dose UVB exposure and analyzed the immediate immune response occurring within the skin tissue. Acute sunburn triggered an activation of LC, coinciding with a rapid influx of neutrophils that produced TNF‐α. Furthermore, our investigation unveiled a marked increase in DNA‐damaged KC and the subsequent induction of apoptosis in these cells. Importantly, we demonstrate a crucial link between the inflammatory cascade, the initiation of apoptosis in DNA‐damaged KC, and the presence of LC in the skin. LC were observed to modulate the chemokine response in the skin following exposure to UVB, thereby affecting the trafficking of neutrophils. Skin lacking LC revealed diminished inflammation, contained fewer TNF‐α‐producing neutrophils, and due to the prevention of apoptosis induction, a lingering population of DNA‐damaged KC, presumably carrying the risk of enduring genomic alterations. In summary, our results underscore the pivotal role of LC in preserving the homeostasis of UVB‐irradiated skin. These findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the intricate mechanisms underlying acute sunburn responses and their implications for UV‐induced skin cancer.
Fibromyalgia in patients with non‐psychotic mental disorders: Prevalence, associated factors and validation of a brief screening instrument
Authors: Zinchuk Mikhail , Kustov Georgii , Tumurov Dmitry , Zhuravlev Dmitry , Bryzgalova Yulia , Spryshkova Maria , Yakovlev Alexander , Guekht Alla
Published: September 2024

Background

Fibromyalgia (FM) is a chronic pain syndrome associated with significant distress and numerous unpleasant consequences. Mental health problems in people with FM have been reported in many studies. People with mental disorders are thought to be at higher risk of FM than the general population, but the prevalence has not been established.

Objective

We aimed to investigate the prevalence of FM in a representative sample of inpatients with non‐psychotic mental disorders. Additionally, we aimed to assess the psychometric properties of the Fibromyalgia Rapid Screening Tool (FiRST) in the Russian‐speaking population of people with mental disorders.

Methods

Consecutive inpatients admitted to the Moscow Research and Clinical Center for Neuropsychiatry for treatment of non‐psychotic mental disorders were evaluated for FM by a neurologist and completed the FiRST, Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), and State and Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI).

Results

Of the 1168 patients evaluated 9.0% met the diagnostic criteria for FM. FM was associated with being female, having a diagnosis of unipolar depression, and having higher total scores on the BDI and STAI. The psychometric properties of the FiRST were good (McDonald's omega 0.79, corrected item‐total correlation greater than 0.45). An optimal cut‐off point with the highest Yuden's index (J = 0.75) was >3 (AUC of 0.89).

Conclusion

FM is a common comorbidity in people with non‐psychotic mental disorders, associated with being female, having a diagnosis of unipolar depression, and having more severe anxiety and depression. The FiRST can be used for the FM screening with its cut‐off >3 in people with non‐psychotic mental disorders.

Significance Statement

It is the first study to determine the prevalence of FM in people with non‐psychotic spectrum mental disorders. The study design included a consecutive sample in a real‐life setting to avoid bias. In addition, we evaluated the psychometric properties of the FM screening instrument in a population of people with mental disorders and established the cut‐off. The specificity of this subpopulation is explained by both the high prevalence of pain symptoms and the overlap of some psychiatric and FM symptoms.
Standardization and application of ARMS TaqMan real‐time PCR for screening of folate metabolism genes in Han Chinese
Authors: Deng Peipei , Liu Xuan , Li Yuanjing , Li Huanhuan , Zhao Bangrong , Wang Shusong , Ma Jing
Published: September 2024

Folate has antioxidant properties, and low concentration in seminal plasma may be associated with increased DNA damage in sperm. Mutations of the methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) and methionine synthase reductase (MTRR) genes, including MTHFR C677T (rs1801133), MTHFR A1298C (rs1801131), and MTRR A66G (rs1801394), can lead to decreased activity of the encoded folate metabolic enzymes, thereby affecting male reproduction. The current SNP detection methods commonly used in clinical practice have some shortcomings, such as long time‐consuming, complex detection steps, or high cost. The purpose of this study was to establish a simple, time‐saving, sensitive, accurate, and easy to clinical popularization method for folate metabolism gene detection. We combined ARMS‐PCR with TaqMan fluorescent probe to establish an ARMS TaqMan real‐time PCR detection method. According to the variation of rs1801131, rs1801133, and rs1801394, two specific primers (one wild type and one mutant) were designed. Mismatched nucleotides were introduced at the penultimate or third position to improve the specificity of the primer. Specific TaqMan probe was introduced to detect PCR products to improve the sensitivity of the method. The results showed that the sensitivity of ARMS TaqMan real‐time PCR in SNP genotyping was 1 ng, and the accuracy was 100%. A total of 249 clinical samples were detected by the established method, and the correlation between three SNPs and semen quality was analyzed. We found that individuals carrying the AG + GG genotype of rs1801394 had a lower risk of abnormal semen quality. In conclusion, we developed a highly sensitive, accurate, rapid, and easy to be popularized method for detecting SNPs of rs1801394, rs1801131, and rs1801133. ARMS TaqMan real‐time PCR is a reliable SNP genotyping method in folate metabolism genes.
Preparation of alkyl microporous organic network‐based capillary column for an efficient gas chromatographic separation of position isomers
Authors: Gao Zhi‐Yong , Li Xi‐Jin , Cui Yuan‐Yuan , Yang Cheng‐Xiong
Published: September 2024

The large surface area, excellent thermal stability and easy modification make microporous organic networks (MONs) good candidates in the field of gas chromatography (GC). Due to the limited species and highly conjugated networks of MONs, their applications are still in infancy and restricted. To accelerate their developments and to enrich their types in GC, here we report the first example of synthesizing alkyl MON and its capillary column for GC separation of position isomers. Linear 1,8‐dibromooctane is used as the alkyl monomer instead of traditional aromatic ones to construct novel alkyl MON to decrease the inherent conjugated characteristic of MONs. The alkyl MON exhibits good thermal stability (up to 350°C), large surface area (1173 m2 g−1), and non‐polar character, allowing good resolution for alkanes, alkyl benzenes, alcohols, ketones, and diverse position isomers, including dichlorobenzene, trichlorobenzene, bromotoluene, nitrotoluene, methylbenzaldehyde, and ionone with the limits of detection (0.003 mg mL−1) and limits of quantitation of (0.10 mg mL−1). The in situ growth–prepared alkyl MON column demonstrates remarkable duration time and precisions for the retention relative standard deviations, (RSDs%, intra‐day, n = 7), 0.06%–0.53% (intra‐day, n = 7), and 2.87%–10.59% (column‐to‐column, n = 3). In addition, the fabricated alkyl MON‐coated capillary column offers better resolution than three commercial GC columns for the resolution of methylbenzaldehyde, bromotoluene, and chlorotoluene isomers. This work reveals the practicability for synthesizing alkyl MONs and demonstrates their prospects for position isomers separation.
State of Health Estimation of Lithium‐Ion Batteries Based on Differential Thermal Voltammetry and Improved Gray Wolf Optimizer Optimizing Gaussian Process Regression
Authors: Xu Peng , Ran Wenwen , Huang Yuan , Xiang Yongtai , Liu Yuhong , Xiao Kelin , Xu Chaolin , Wan Shibin
Published: September 2024

Accurate estimation of the state of health (SOH) of lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) is essential for their safe operation. Therefore, herein, a novel approach that combines Gaussian process regression (GPR) optimized using an improved gray wolf optimizer (IGWO) with differential thermal voltammetry (DTV) is introduced. In this approach, the peak and valley information of the DTV curves are used to reveal the battery‐aging mechanisms, with the slopes and durations between peaks and valleys used as health characteristics. The correlation between the characteristics and SOH of the battery is analyzed to build a health feature dataset. IGWO optimizes the GPR hyperparameters to address their dependence on the initial values and susceptibility to local optimization and employs a dimension‐learning strategy to enhance the population diversity and prevent premature convergence. DTV curves and an IGWO‐GPR model for SOH estimation using four cells from the NASA LIB public aging dataset are developed and validated. The results show root mean square errors below 0.007 and mean absolute errors under 0.006 for all cells. The coefficient of determination exceeds 0.92 for three cells, with one battery exhibiting a value of 0.866. This method provides accurate and efficient SOH estimation, essential for safe battery operation.
The Built Environment Data platform for experimental test data in earthquake engineering
Authors: Shahnazaryan Davit , Pinho Rui , Crowley Helen , O'Reilly Gerard J.
Published: September 2024

Experimental testing of full structural systems and their components is crucial for understanding their response to earthquakes. Since the 1960s, global interest in such testing has grown, supported by numerous national and international funding initiatives. This has resulted in valuable data that has improved understanding of structural behaviour, spurred the development of new mitigation solutions and helped validate numerical models critical for simulation studies. These advancements have enabled engineers to improve building codes and guidelines, and have allowed risk modellers to more accurately assess risk. With advanced computational resources, integrating experimental findings into broader initiatives becomes crucial. This article discusses a recent European initiative, Built Environment Data (BED) (https://builtenvdata.eu/), which currently offers a platform to store and manage data from experimental research, embodied carbon and simulated design services. BED aims to serve the European Plate Observing System (EPOS) distributed research infrastructure as one of its Thematic Core Services (TCSs). This paper focuses on the Experiments service for managing experimental data, compares it to similar global efforts and outlines the specific requirements and system architecture, including the web services and datasets currently offered. The Experiments service is expected to significantly support engineers worldwide by making experimental research and data more findable, accessible, inter‐operable and re‐usable.
Exploring the relationship between learning emotion and cognitive behaviors in a digital game
Authors: Chen Li , Zhan Zehui , Chen Han , Zheng Linlin
Published: September 2024

Previous studies have primarily explored the learning effects of digital games on students from a macro perspective, mainly ignoring the fine‐grained dimensions of learners' emotions and cognition during gameplay. To enrich the study of learners' emotions and cognitions in the context of digital games, this paper conducts an empirical study using the self‐developed board game “Connect Four Chess” as a research vehicle. We semi‐automatically identify learners' emotional and cognitive behaviors within this game‐based educational context and explore the relationship between the two. The study demonstrates that high‐level learners maintained a high level of insightful emotion throughout the game, excelled at constructing strategic formations to control more significant chessboard areas, and preferred to reserve powerful pieces until the end to secure a winning advantage. Conversely, low‐level learners exhibit a predominant level of neutral emotion, especially during unrelated behaviors, and struggle to maintain a strategic overview, focusing instead on smaller, immediate gains, which hamper the application of deeper strategies.
Enhancing university students' learning performance in a metaverse‐enabled immersive learning environment for STEM education: A community of inquiry approach
Authors: Singh Manpreet , Sun Daner , Zheng Zhizi
Published: September 2024

The research paper explores the use of a metaverse‐enabled immersive learning environment (MeILE) guided by the Community of Inquiry (CoI) framework to enhance university student interactions and collaboration. The platform integrates various components, including avatar usage, multimodality, and gamification, with careful consideration of each CoI element to maximize students' immersive interactions and collaboration in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) learning contexts. By aligning activities with Bloom's digital taxonomy, the metaverse environment aims to improve STEM learning outcomes. A case study conducted at a university demonstrated the successful implementation of essential CoI elements, leading to increased student engagement and improved learning performance. Results indicate MeILE facilitates interactive, reflective, constructive, and self‐regulated learning, which are essential for developing STEM and 21st century skills. The study emphasizes the teacher's role as a facilitator in fostering self‐directed learning, and cultivating 21st‐century skills through collaborative learning activities in virtual environment. The research underscores the importance of innovative educational tools in adapting to the evolving landscape of education in the digital age.
A new non‐equilibrium modification of the k−ω$$ k-\omega $$ turbulence model for supersonic turbulent flows with transverse jet
Authors: Naimanova Altynshash , Beketaeva Assel
Published: September 2024

The goal of this research is to propose a new modification of a non‐equilibrium effect in the turbulence model to better predict high‐speed turbulent flows. For that, the two local compressibility coefficients are included in the balance production/dissipation terms in a specific dissipation rate equation. The specific dissipation rate reacts to changes in the local Mach number and density through these local coefficients. The developed model is applied to the numerical simulation of the spatial supersonic turbulent airflow with round hydrogen injection. In that, the effects of the proposed turbulence model on the flow field behavior (shock wave and vortex formations, shock wave/boundary layer interaction, and mixture layer) are studied via the solution of three‐dimensional Favre‐averaged Navier–Stokes equations with a third‐order Essentially Non‐Oscillatory scheme. A series of numerical experiments are performed, in which an allowable range of local constants by comparing results with experimental data is obtained. The non‐equilibrium modification by simultaneous decrease of the turbulence kinetic energy and increase of the specific dissipation rate gives a good agreement of the hydrogen depth penetration with experimental data. Also, the numerical experiment of the supersonic airflow with a nitrogen jet shows wall pressure distribution is consistent well with experimental data.
Deep learning for sea surface temperature applications: A comprehensive bibliometric analysis and methodological approach
Authors: Boufeniza Redouane Larbi , Jingjia Luo , Abdela Kemal Adem , Alsafadi Karam , Alsahli Mohammad M
Published: September 2024

This study explored the potential application of deep learning techniques in sea surface temperature (SST) investigations using a mixed method, bibliometric analysis and methodological approach. CiteSpace software was utilized for a bibliometric study on 137 academic publications from 2018 to 2023. Various databases were employed for methodological analysis, which involved examining publications based on models, methodologies, applications and research areas. The data were manually organized in a relational framework of an SQL database. The analysis underscored China's prominence as a leader in the extensive research devoted to this field. The United States of America and the United Kingdom played pivotal roles in providing the essential data that served as the foundation for these studies. Moreover, the long short‐term memory (LSTM) algorithm was the predominant computational deep learning algorithm extensively used in this specific context. The analysis highlighted significant knowledge gaps in areas such as SST forecasting, modelling, satellite remote sensing, extreme events and data reconstruction. Future scientists need to show more interest in these and related subjects, while Chinese and American scientists should prioritize paper quality over quantity. Additionally, fostering stronger collaborations between universities and institutions is vital for further advancements. Ultimately, this study offers valuable insights into hotspot research areas and development processes, establishing the foundation for research and suggesting possible avenues for future development. The results of this evaluation serve as an essential guide for researchers and modellers involved in prediction initiatives using deep learning.
Mistreated but Still Resilient! Unraveling the Role of Servant Leadership in Mitigating the Adverse Consequences of Care Recipients' Incivility
Authors: Mostafa Ahmed Mohammed Sayed , Yalabik Zeynep Y. , Eyiusta Ceyda Maden , Zaharie Monica , Ozcelik Gaye
Published: September 2024

In many countries, social care workers suffer from mistreatment from social care recipients. Such mistreatment poses a significant challenge from the human resource management (HRM) perspective as finding and retaining competent social care workers is a global challenge. However, only a few studies focus on the relationship between such mistreatment and social care workers' job and psychological resources. Drawing on the conservation of resources (COR) theory, our study sheds light on the relationship between social care recipients' incivility and the resilience of social care workers. Specifically, our study examines the mediating role of work meaningfulness on the care recipient incivility–care worker resilience link, and the moderating role of servant leadership on this mediated relationship. To test the proposed moderated mediation model, two studies were conducted in social care organizations in England (n = 248) and Romania (n = 296). Our results revealed that perceived care recipient incivility is indirectly and negatively related to care workers' resilience by undermining their perceptions of work meaningfulness. Moreover, when social care workers work under a servant leader, this indirect relationship becomes weaker. The discussion elaborates on the findings of our model as well as the theoretical and practical implications for the management of human resources in social care organizations.
Field effect transistor biosensors for healthcare monitoring
Authors: Zhang Zhicheng , Hu Jing‐Jing , Lin Shijun , Wu Jiajun , Xia Fan , Lou Xiaoding
Published: September 2024

The burgeoning demand for healthcare monitoring has brought field effect transistor (FET) biosensors into the spotlight as a highly efficient detection technology. FET biosensors offer inherent advantages including high sensitivity, rapid response times, operational simplicity, integrability, and label‐free detection. These characteristics render them particularly well‐suited for detecting a diverse array of physiological parameters and biomarkers, thereby furnishing real‐time data crucial for personalized medicine and disease prevention. This review aims to elucidate recent advancements in FET biosensors within the realm of healthcare management encompassing several facets. Initially, this review systematically analyzes the device architecture, sensing mechanisms, and performance evaluation methods of FET biosensors to gain an in‐depth understanding of their operational principles and features. Subsequently, it focuses on the application of FET biosensors for detecting health‐related biomarkers encompassing nucleic acids, proteins, exosomes, viruses, etc. Lastly, the review presents engineered medical sensor prototypes predicated on FET biosensors, such as point‐of‐care testing devices, wearable sensors, and implantable sensors, underscoring their practical utility and potential in health management. In addition, the review addresses critical issues and prospects of using FET biosensors in healthcare monitoring, aiming to provide some references and insights for research and innovation in this field.
Synthesis and properties of a soluble, rigid poly(p‐xylylene) with high molecular weight
Authors: Schäfer O. , Greiner A. , Antonietti M. , Zisenis M.
Published: September 2024

The synthesis of a linear, soluble poly(p‐xylylene) with high molecular weight, the phenethyl‐substituted PPX (PEPPX), via a base‐induced polyreaction is presented. The resulting polymers are characterized by GPC and static and dynamic light scattering. The light scattering data clearly demonstrate that PEPPX in THF is a very stiff, shape‐persistent polymer with a persistence length of the order of at least 18 nm. This is rather unexpected, since PPX contains two main chain σ‐bonds in each monomer unit, which allow free rotation.
Nuciferine protects hyperandrogen‐injured ovarian granulosa cells by inhibiting ferroptosis via SOX2‐mediated activation of the SLC7A11/GPX4 axis
Authors: Yang Hongyu , Chen Shichao , Yin Shanshan , Ding Qi
Published: September 2024

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder that can cause menstrual irregularities, infertility, polycystic ovaries, and metabolic abnormalities. Female reproductive health and quality of life are significantly affected by PCOS, which has recently been associated with ferroptosis in granulosa cells (GCs). Nuciferine (NF) is a naturally extracted substance with multiple pharmacological activities, which is reported with anti‐ferroptosis function. Herein, the influence of NF for androgen‐induced ferroptosis in GCs was investigated to explore the potential value of NF on treating PCOS. 10 μM NF and 20 μM NF were employed for treating KGN cells according to cell viability results. KGN cells were treated with 10 μM dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) for 1 day, followed by introducing 10 μM NF and 20 μM NF for 24 h. Strikingly reduced cell viability, increased lactate dehydrogenase release and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, enhanced apoptosis, upregulated Bax, downregulated Bcl‐2, restrained malondialdehyde contents, and declined superoxide dismutase activity were observed in DHEA‐treated KGN cells, which were significantly reversed by NF. Significantly repressed GPX4, SLC7A11, and SOX2 levels, as well as increased ACSL4 levels and Fe2+ levels in DHEA‐treated KGN cells, were notably rescued by NF. Furthermore, the inhibitory effect of NF on ROS production and ferroptosis in DHEA‐treated KGN cells was partially abrogated by silencing SOX2. Collectively, NF protected DHEA‐injured ovarian GCs by inhibiting ferroptosis via upregulating SOX2.
An influence of electronic structure theory method, thermodynamic and implicit solvation corrections on the organic carbonates conformational and binding energies
Authors: Ryzhako Alexander S. , Tuma Anna A. , Otlyotov Arseniy A. , Minenkov Yury
Published: September 2024

An impact of an electronic structure or force field method, gas‐phase thermodynamic correction, and continuum solvation model on organic carbonate clusters (S)n conformational and binding energies is explored. None of the tested force field (GFN‐FF, GAFF, MMFF94) and standard semiempirical methods (PM3, AM1, RM1, PM6, PM6‐D3, PM6‐D3H4, PM7) can reproduce reference RI‐SCS‐MP2 conformational energies. Tight‐binding GFNn‐xTB methods provide more realistic conformational energies which are accurate enough to discard the least stable conformers. The effect of thermodynamic correction is moderate and can be ignored if the gas phase conformational stability ranking is a goal. The influence of continuum solvation is stronger, especially if reinforced with the Gibbs free energy thermodynamic correction, and results in the reduced spread of conformational energies. The cluster formation binding energies strongly depend on a particular approach to vibrational thermochemistry with the difference between traditional harmonic and modified scaled rigid – harmonic oscillator approximations reaching 10 kcal mol−1.
Engineered metal nanoparticles for precision drug delivery: Pioneering the future of medicine: Mini review
Authors: Ullah Mati , Shah Muhammad Ijaz , Hasan Muhammad Waqqas , Jamshed Muhammad , Mustafa Uswa , Inam Muhammad
Published: September 2024

Metal nanoparticles (NPs) have emerged as crucial components in precision drug delivery, presenting innovative opportunities to significantly enhance therapeutic efficacy and targeting accuracy. This review investigates recent developments in the engineering of metal NPs, emphasizing their distinctive properties and novel applications in drug delivery systems. A comprehensive analysis is performed on gold, silver, iron, and zinc oxide NPs, emphasizing their exceptional physicochemical properties and enhanced drug‐loading capacities. These features collectively enable the development and implementation of targeted and controlled drug delivery systems, indicating a new era of advanced therapeutic approaches. This review article accomplishes this by reflecting on the transformative potential of metal NPs, envisioning heightened efficacy, minimized side effects, and improved patient outcomes within the dynamic landscape of drug delivery platforms.
Home and psychological well‐being in global consumer mobility
Authors: Sharifonnasabi Zahra , Mimoun Laetitia , Bardhi Fleura
Published: September 2024

Home is typically understood as a singular place that provides a sense of groundedness, belonging, and well‐being. Yet, this singular notion of home is challenged in global mobility, where consumers live and travel across borders and relocate internationally frequently. We expect globally mobile consumers to experience multiple and multilayered notions of home with significant psychological consequences for their sense of well‐being, ownership, and identity. In a qualitative study of 40 globally mobile consumers, we examine what it means to have multiple homes and how consumers cope with it. We identified four types of home that coexist in global mobility: emotional home, home away from home, base of operation, and home on the road. These types are characterized by different degrees of permanence and serve different psychological benefits that are at times in opposition or complementary (respectively, belonging and ontological security, functioning and psychological ownership, productivity, and flexibility). We also explored how this home portfolio provokes emotional, social, and cognitive consequences with which globally mobile consumers cope through strategic use of marketplace resources.
Impact of neutrophil‐activating protein conservation on diagnostic tests and vaccine design
Authors: Gonçalves Lídia MD , Almeida António J , Calado Cecília RC
Published: September 2024

BACKGROUND

The neutrophil activating protein (NAP) is a highly immunogenic and virulence factor of Helicobacter pylori, presenting inflammatory and immunomodulatory activity. Consequently, NAP has been explored as a diagnostic and therapeutic target. However, when evaluating a target protein to design diagnostic methods or vaccines, it is critical to determine the protein conservation among the bacterial population, as well the impact of alterations of amino acid residues on the protein antigenic profile.

RESULTS

In the present work, NAP conservation and theoretical antigenicity were determined among 51 sequences from H. pylori isolated from patients worldwide. A high NAP conservation (83%) was observed, where 17 amino acid residues, among the 144 residues of the protein, were polymorphic. Alterations at these polymorphic sites had a theoretically low impact on predicted antigenicity, where only 5 NAPs out of 51 NAPs presented a slightly different antigenic profile in relation to the consensus sequence. According to that, it was possible to recognize in western blotting 93% of NAP from different bacteria (n = 15) using polyclonal antibodies developed against a specific NAP.

CONCLUSIONS

It was predicted that when working with polyclonal antibodies or large NAP fragments for diagnostic and vaccine design, slight variation in protein sequence will have a minimal impact on NAP recognition. However, if a NAP monoclonal antibody or small NAP epitopes are considered, it is critical to select the most conserved and antigenic NAP regions, to maximize the coverage of NAP variants. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Impact of coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic on dental student's performance across disciplines during community site rotations: A comparative analysis
Authors: Shukla Anubhuti , Amrutham Bhavya Vaishnavi
Published: September 2024

Objective

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic disrupted educational frameworks worldwide, particularly affecting health professions education. The impact on students varied based on local pandemic severity, public health policies, and institutional capacities. Our observational, retrospective study evaluated the impact of the COVID‐19 pandemic on senior dental students' performance during community rotations at Indiana University School of Dentistry.

Methodology

Data from student self‐assessments and faculty evaluations, collected as part of the Community‐Based Dental Education (CBDE) course between 2018 to 2022 was utilized. Five key domains of patient care: diagnosis and treatment planning, clinical skills, time management, interprofessional collaboration, and professionalism was assesed using a 5‐point Likert scale. Pre‐ and post‐pandemic comparisons of self‐reported student evaluation and faculty assessment scores were conducted using two‐sample t‐tests, with ANOVA used to analyze cohort differences.

Results

Significant declines were observed in mean scores for diagnosis and treatment planning, clinical skills, time management, and interprofessional collaboration during the post‐COVID period compared to pre‐COVID levels (p < 0.05). Conversely, an increase in average scores related to students' professionalism was noted, although this difference was not statistically significant (p > 0.05). Class cohort‐wise analysis showed similar patterns, with all cohorts experiencing significant declines in the aforementioned areas (p < 0.05) and non‐significant increases in professionalism scores (p > 0.05).

Conclusion

This study findings underscore the challenges faced by dental education in adapting to pandemic‐induced disruptions and highlight the importance of adaptive approaches and support systems to address these challenges. Moving forward, resolving disparities in assessments and comprehending the various factors influencing student performance will be crucial to preserving the adaptability and effectiveness of dentistry education in the face of adversity.
Influence of amount and delay of reward on choice and response rate: A free‐operant, multiple‐schedule analogue of a discrete‐trial procedure
Authors: Wright James E. , Reed Phil
Published: September 2024

The current study explored a free‐operant analogue of discrete‐trial procedures to study the effects of amount and delay of reinforcement on choice and response rate. Rats responded on a multiple variable‐interval (VI) 45‐s, 45‐s schedule, with interspersed choice probe trials. Comparison of relative response rates and percentage of choice revealed some discrepancies between the free‐operant analogue and discrete‐trial procedures. Amount of reward controlled choice behavior when the ratios of delays were similar. When reward delays were more discrepant, delay length controlled choice behavior. Whereas the percentage of choice was larger for the larger magnitude reward, the relative rate of response for the larger magnitude was less than .50. In contrast, when the percentage of choice generally fell to below 50% (with large amount and large delay differences between alternatives), relative response rate indicated a preference for the larger amount alternative. This study shows the feasibility and utility of a free‐operant analogue of discrete‐choice studies that could be used to develop an analysis of preference.
A novel simplified method for assessing crystal length and crystalline content in dental ceramics
Authors: Ferraz Danilo Cassiano , Tavares Lucas Nascimento , Reis Isadora Aparecida Ribeiro , Brackett William W. , Pacheco Rafael Rocha , Raposo Luís Henrique Araújo
Published: September 2024

The purpose of this study was to introduce a novel and simple method of evaluating the crystal length and crystalline content of lithium disilicate dental ceramics using images obtained from scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and analyzed with ImageJ (NIH) processing software. Three evaluators with varying experience levels assessed the average crystal length and percentage of crystalline content in four commercial lithium disilicate reinforced glass ceramic materials: IPS e.max (Ivoclar Vivadent), Rosetta SM (Hass), T‐Lithium (Talmax), and IRIS CAD (Tianjin). The specimens, prepared from partially crystallized CAD/CAM blocks (3.0 mm3), were fully crystallized and treated with 5% hydrofluoric acid for 20 s prior to SEM analysis. After acquiring the SEM images, ImageJ software was used to evaluate the average crystal length and crystalline content on the surface of the different ceramics. An inter‐operator agreement was observed (ICC/p = 0.724), indicating that assessments by the various operators were similar across all ceramic materials tested (p < 0.001). When crystal length and crystalline content were compared, IRIS CAD exhibited significant differences compared to the other materials (p < 0.001), showing a less dense crystalline matrix based on the average length of crystals and the percentage of crystals per unit area. The use of this software facilitated the evaluation of crystalline content and average crystal lengths in dental ceramics using SEM images, and demonstrated very low variability among different operators.

Research Highlights

The described method, using ImageJ open‐source software, provides precise and reliable measurements of crystal length and crystalline content in lithium disilicate ceramics, with high inter‐operator agreement.

The proposed method identified higher crystalline content in IPS e.max CAD compared to Rosetta SM CAD and T‐lithium CAD ceramics, while IRIS CAD exhibited significantly lower crystalline content and larger average crystal length.

The novel, simplified method for assessing crystal length and crystalline content presented in this study may also be useful for evaluating other dental ceramics.