bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In Situ‐Generated CuI Catalytic System for Oxidative N‐Formylation of N‐Heterocycles and Acyclic Amines with Methanol
Authors: Zhang Yujing , Dai Xingchao , Wang Jixue , Liang Junxi , Rabeah Jabor , Tian Xia , Yao Xiaoqiang , Wang Yanbin , Pang Shaofeng
Published: December 2022

The development of a sustainable and simple catalytic system for N‐formylation of N‐heterocycles with methanol by direct coupling remains a challenge, owing to many competing side reactions, given the sensitivity of N‐heterocycles to many catalytic oxidation or dehydrogenation systems. This work concerns the development of an in situ‐generated CuI catalytic system for oxidative N‐formylation of N‐heterocycles with methanol that is based on the case study of a more typical 1,2,3,4‐tetrahydroquinoline as substrate. Aside from N‐heterocycles, some acyclic amines are also transformed into the corresponding N‐formamides in moderate yields. Furthermore, a probable reaction mechanism and reaction pathway are proposed and extension of work based on some findings leads to a demonstration that the formed ⋅O2− and ⋅OOH radicals in the catalytic system is related to the formation of undesired tar‐like products.
Photoexcitation of Fe3O Nodes in MOF Drives Water Oxidation at pH=1 When Ru Catalyst Is Present
Authors: Ezhov Roman , Ravari Alireza K. , Palenik Mark , Loomis Alexander , Meira Debora M. , Savikhin Sergei , Pushkar Yulia
Published: December 2022

Artificial photosynthesis strives to convert the energy of sunlight into sustainable, eco‐friendly solar fuels. However, systems with light‐driven water oxidation reaction (WOR) at pH=1 are rare. Broadly used [Ru(bpy)3]2+ (bpy=2,2’‐bipyridine) photosensitizer has a fixed +1.23 V potential which is insufficient to drive most water oxidation catalysts (WOCs) in acid, while Fe2O3, featuring the highly oxidizing holes, is not stable at low pH. Here, the key examples of Fe‐based metal–organic framework (MOF) water oxidation photoelectrocatalysts active at pH=1 are presented. Fe‐MIL‐126 and Fe MOF‐dcbpy structures were formed with 4,4’‐biphenyl dicarboxylate (bpdc), 2,2’‐bipyridine‐5,5’‐dicarboxylate (dcbpy) linkers and their mixtures. Presence of dcbpy linkers allows integration of metal‐based catalysts via coordination to 2,2’‐bipyridine fragments. Fe‐based MOFs were doped with Ru‐based precursors to achieve highly active MOFs bearing [Ru(bpy)(dcbpy)(H2O)2]2+ WOC. Materials were analyzed with X‐ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infra‐red (FTIR) spectroscopy, resonance Raman, X‐ray absorption spectroscopy, fs optical pump‐probe, electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR), diffuse reflectance and electric conductivity measurements and were modeled by band structure calculations. It is shown that under reaction conditions, FeIII and RuIII oxidation states are present, indicating rate‐limiting electron transfer in MOF. Fe3O nodes emerge as photosensitizers able to drive prolonged O2 evolution in acid. Further developments are possible via MOF's linker modification for enhanced light absorption, electrical conductivity, reduced MOF solubility in acid, Ru‐WOC modification for faster WOC catalysis, or Ru‐WOC substitution to 3d metal‐based systems. The findings give further insight for development of light‐driven water splitting systems based on Earth‐abundant metals.
Introduction of non‐native Douglas fir reduces leaf damage on beech saplings and mature trees in European beech forests
Authors: Matevski Dragan , Foltran Estela , Lamersdorf Norbert , Schuldt Andreas
Published: December 2022

Recent ecological research suggests that, in general, mixtures are more resistant to insect herbivores and pathogens than monocultures. However, we know little about mixtures with non‐native trees, where enemy release could lead to patterns that differ from commonly observed relationships among native species. This becomes particularly relevant when considering that adaptation strategies to climate change increasingly promote a larger share of non‐native tree species, such as North American Douglas fir in Central Europe. We studied leaf damage on European beech (Fagus sylvatica) saplings and mature trees across a wide range of site conditions in monocultures and mixtures with phylogenetically distant conifers native Norway spruce (Picea abies) and non‐native Douglas fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii). We analyzed leaf herbivory and pathogen damage in relation to tree diversity and composition effects, as well as effects of environmental factors and plant characteristics. We observed lower sapling herbivory and tree sucking damage on beech in non‐native Douglas fir mixtures than in beech monocultures, probably due to a lower herbivore diversity on Douglas fir trees, and higher pathogen damage on beech saplings in Norway spruce than Douglas fir mixtures, possibly because of higher canopy openness. Our findings suggest that for low diversity gradients, tree diversity effects on leaf damage can strongly depend on tree species composition, in addition to modifications caused by feeding guild and tree ontogeny. Moreover, we found that nutrient capacity modulated the effects of tree diversity, composition, and environmental factors, with different responses in sites with low or high nutrient capacity. The existence of contrasting diversity effects based on tree species composition provides important information on our understanding of the relationships between tree diversity and plant–herbivore interactions in light of non‐native tree species introductions. Especially with recent Norway spruce die‐off, the planting of Douglas fir as replacement is likely to strongly increase in Central Europe. Our findings suggest that mixtures with Douglas fir could benefit the survival or growth rates of beech saplings and mature trees due to lower leaf damage, emphasizing the need to clearly identify and compare the potential benefits and ecological trade‐offs of non‐native tree species in forest management under ongoing environmental change.
Creating and evaluating uncertainty estimates with neural networks for environmental-science applications
Authors: Haynes Katherine , Lagerquist Ryan , McGraw Marie , Musgrave Kate , Ebert-Uphoff Imme
Published: December 2022

Neural networks (NN) have become an important tool for prediction tasks
– both regression and classification – in environmental science. 
Since many environmental-science problems involve life-or-death
decisions and policy-making, it is crucial to provide not only
predictions but also an estimate of the uncertainty in the predictions. 
Until recently, very few tools were available to provide uncertainty
quantification (UQ) for NN predictions.  However, in recent years the
computer-science field has developed numerous UQ approaches, and several
research groups are exploring how to apply these approaches in
environmental science.  We provide an accessible introduction to six of
these UQ approaches, then focus on tools for the next step, namely to
answer the question: Once we obtain an uncertainty estimate (using any
approach), how do we know whether it is good or bad?  To answer this
question, we highlight four evaluation graphics and eight evaluation
scores that are well suited for evaluating and comparing uncertainty
estimates (NN-based or otherwise) for environmental-science
applications.  We demonstrate the UQ approaches and UQ-evaluation
methods for two real-world problems: (1) estimating vertical profiles of
atmospheric dewpoint (a regression task) and (2) predicting convection
over Taiwan based on Himawari-8 satellite imagery (a classification
task).  We also provide Jupyter notebooks with Python code for
implementing the UQ approaches and UQ-evaluation methods discussed
herein.  This article provides the environmental-science community with
the knowledge and tools to start incorporating the large number of
emerging UQ methods into their research.
To sell or store? Assessing smallholder farmers' willingness to pay for potato cold storage in Kenya
Authors: Ateka Josiah M. , Mbeche Robert
Published: December 2022

Storage of food commodities for some time after harvest can play an important role in alleviating the downside of price fluctuations in developing countries. While storage can offer smallholder farmers substantial inter‐temporal arbitrage opportunities, existing evidence shows that many farmers in developing countries store little of their harvest. Using a cross sectional survey of 502 households in Nyandarua and Bomet Counties of Kenya, this paper assessed smallholder farmers' willingness to pay (WTP) for cold storage and compares their WTP with the arbitrage opportunities. Our results reveal that the storage of potato was generally limited with only 26% storing in the season preceding the study. Using a hypothetical scenario with double‐bounded contingent valuation formats, our findings show that a considerable proportion of households (70.7%) were willing to rent cold storage facilities. The WTP for storing a 90 kg bag of Shangi, a common variety with a short shelf life (1 month) was Kenya shillings (KES) 104 (1.16/kg/month) compared KES 96.4 (1.07/kg/month) for the Unica variety (slightly longer shelf life). The probit model results show that gender (being female), and transaction costs associated with access to markets (e.g., geographical location and distance to the road) were positively associated with WTP. Furthermore, household endowment, reflected in household expenditure, income and level of potato commercialization had a positive influence on WTP to store. In addition, institutional characteristics of collective action, previous experience with storage and use of certified seed (often associated with extension) enhanced households WTP for potato storage. The results on potato prices over a 5‐year period (2014–2019) show that seasonal price gaps were higher than the estimated WTP, suggesting that potato storage could be economically viable. These findings have significant policy implications not only for commodities whose harvest is perishable and season bound (e.g., vegetables, fruits) where arbitrage may offer price stabilization.
Motivating household food waste reduction: Harnessing the power of message context and framing
Authors: Begho Toritseju , Zhao Ningxin
Published: December 2022

Household food waste is a major contributor to the total food waste from all sectors globally. Food waste undermines sustainability and reduces the resilience of food systems. The current food waste statistics, especially in high‐income economies, indicate a need to rethink how households can be motivated to reduce food waste. Generally, persuasive messages can be used to create positive behavior change. But there is yet to be explored potential to influence food waste behavior using messages. Thus, this paper employs behavioral insights to assess the effectiveness of message domains, contexts, and composition in encouraging households to reduce food waste. We find that message domains and composition influences the intent to reduce food waste. The odds of motivating food waste reduction are higher using the loss domain framed messages with financial outcomes, and the gain domain framed messages with environmental outcomes. Moreover, composite messages are more likely to encourage household food waste recycling behavior. The paper shows that improving behavioral change messages in terms of message appropriateness and clarity is pivotal to implementing an effective instrument.
Interacting effects of environmental enrichment across multiple generations on early life phenotypes in zebrafish
Authors: Green Michael R. , Swaney William T.
Published: December 2022

The environment plays an important role in an individual's development during early life, however, parents may also influence offspring development through so called “parental effects.” We examined the effects of environmental enrichment in zebrafish (Danio rerio) across two generations through the paternal lineage. Fathers and grandfathers were exposed to either standard or high levels of housing enrichment for 4‐weeks during adulthood. First‐generation (F1) and second‐generation (F2) offspring were obtained from controlled breeding and tested as larvae for changes in morphology at hatching stage (72hpf), and in locomotor activity at larval stage (120hpf) in both generations. We found paternal experience of enrichment resulted in changes in trunk length of F1 offspring and changes in spine curvature and dorsal length of F2 offspring, while changes in snout morphology of F2 offspring seemed to be driven by whether grandpaternal and paternal experience of the environment was matched or not. We found that while paternal enrichment increased the frequency of spontaneous movement in F1 and F2 offspring, interacting effects of paternal and grandpaternal enrichment on movement distance were seen in F2 offspring, and that spontaneous movement and the distance that larvae swam are thus distinct phenotypes that were differentially affected by the experiences of previous paternal generations. Taken together, these findings suggest that the parental and grandparental environment influence zebrafish behavior and morphology. The nature of these effects and the design of this study mean that these phenotypes were likely the result of nongenetic transmission through the paternal germline.
Contrast Enhanced Ultrasonography of Kidney in Chronic Intermittent Hypoxia Rat Model
Authors: Lun Haimei , Liu Ruochuan , Hu Qiao , Liu Yaoli , Wei Lisi , Liu Xia , Wu Dan , Zhu Shangyong
Published: December 2022

Objectives

The objective of our study was to assess the ability of contrast‐enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) in evaluating renal microperfusion in an animal model.

Methods

Twenty Sprague–Dawley rats were subdivided into two groups: the normal and chronic intermittent hypoxia (CIH) groups. In the CIH model, 10 Sprague–Dawley rats were exposed to CIH for 8 weeks to mimic obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). The CEUS parameters of the renal cortex and medulla were obtained and compared between groups. The pathological changes of the kidney tissues were examined by histological staining such as hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) and Masson's trichrome.

Results

CIH caused morphological damage to kidneys. In the cortex, the peak intensity (PI) (P = .009) was significantly lower and time to peak (Ttop) (P = .019) was significantly prolonged in the CIH group compared with the controls. The area under ascending curve (WiAUC) in the medulla and cortex were both significantly lower in the CIH group than those in the control group (P both <.05). CEUS parameters (including PI and WiAUC of the cortex and WiAUC of the medulla) were negatively correlated with serum creatinine (P all <.05). In the medulla, the area under descending curve (WoAUC) was positively correlated with serum creatinine (P = .027), PI was negatively correlated with uric acid (P = .034).

Conclusion

CEUS parameters (including Ttop, PI, WoAUC, and WiAUC) reflect renal microvascular changes in CIH. CEUS could be a safe and accurate imaging method to assess renal microvascular damage in CIH rats.
Buffering effects of the soil seed bank on annual plant community composition after wetland drying
Authors: Ren Ai‐tian , Hu Dan‐Ying , Qi Pei‐Xia , Zhang Shao‐Cong , Gao He‐Miao , Mickan Bede S. , Xiong You‐Cai , Yuan Long‐Yi
Published: December 2022

Subalpine peat wetlands are extremely sensitive to global environmental changes and anthropogenic disturbances. Unlike most other biological groups, plant species can possess dormant life‐history stages such as the soil seed bank (SSB), which may help plant communities to resist or at least postpone the detrimental impact of disturbance. This study investigates the potential for SSB to achieve this along a soil moisture gradient. Species richness and density of SSB were significantly lower by 31.9% and 47.2% in wetland, and 35.1% and 68.1% in swamp meadow in comparison with steppe meadow, respectively. Soil moisture content did not directly affect the density and species richness of SSB, whilst had indirect effects on density and species richness via affecting vegetation and soil pH. SSB composition was less responsive to soil moisture changes than plant community composition. Furthermore, compositional trends in the annual plant SSB were weaker than in the aboveground vegetation along the soil moisture gradient. The similarity between SSB and vegetation significantly declined with increasing soil moisture content. High SSB diversity and compositional similarity between the vegetation and SSB may provide a potentially important functional buffer against the impact of ongoing moisture changes on plant communities in wetlands. Dormant life‐history stages can therefore be important sources of diversity in changing environments. Furthermore, although SSB has low regeneration potential for the aboveground vegetation communities in subalpine peat wetlands, the SSB would still not be a neglected factor for the restoration of propagule diversity after disturbance in wetlands if hydrology is restored.
A CONVERSATION WITH MARSHALL GOLDSMITH ABOUT LIVING AN EARNED LIFE
Authors: Goldsmith Marshall , McArthur Sarah
Published: December 2022

This article is a conversation with Marshall Goldsmith, one of the world’s leading executive educators, coaches, and authors; and Leader to Leader co‐editor‐in‐chief Sarah McArthur, Goldsmith’s former managing editor. They discuss the principles behind Goldsmith’s new, best‐selling book The Earned Life. “We are living an earned life,” according to Goldsmith, “when the choices, risks, and effort we make in each moment align with an overarching purpose in our lives, regardless of the eventual outcome.” He continues: “Experience has taught me that there is at least one universal baseline motivation guaranteed to clarify our desire to live an earned life, and to make progress toward an overarching purpose and it is this: We want to live a life that will increase our fulfillment and minimize our regret.” Goldsmith relates the background to one of his most significant initiatives: “A number of years ago I started the 100 Coaches pay‐it‐forward community. It didn’t start as the 100 Coaches; it started as 15 Coaches. In fact, it didn’t even start as 15 Coaches, it started as an idea, a desire to connect my daily activities to a greater purpose.” He also points personal heroes: “Alan Mulally, Frances Hesselbein, Jim Yong Kim, Paul Hersey, Peter Drucker, and of course Buddha.”
LEADING IN A DIGITAL ERA WITH EQUITY, INCLUSION, AND DIVERSITY
Authors: Jules Claudy
Published: December 2022

The author, a partner at McKinsey & Company and former Google executive, calls for a new type of leadership and organizational governance in the evolving digital era. This means being serious and intentional about diversity, equity, and inclusion, to a greater degree than we've seen in recent years, even with the spotlight on these topics. Current reporting on metrics regarding these topics may be inadequate. “First,” Jules says, “leaders must deal with new and evolving identity categories that are becoming more common to any organization's reality.” He continues that “a second complicating issue around EID today is that it forces leaders and employees to confront and discuss what makes them uncomfortable.” Then, according to Jules, “a third challenge is answering a big question that's increasingly asked, especially if you are an investor: How diverse are the entrepreneurs you are talking to in your pipeline?” He sets out practical steps for making EID a priority. In his words, they are: Conduct an EID review; Shift mindsets and ensure an inclusive, transparent, and fair experience; Establish an EID governance structure to align leaders and reinforce mutual accountability; and Set up the right reporting and insights capabilities.
Biomedical applications and prospects of temperature‐orchestrated photothermal therapy
Authors: Xu Nuo , Zhang Xu , Qi Tingting , Wu Yongzhi , Xie Xi , Chen Fangman , Shao Dan , Liao Jinfeng
Published: December 2022

Photothermal therapy (PTT) has been regarded as a promising strategy considering its advantages of high inherent specificity and a lower invasive burden. Since the photothermal killing of cells/bacteria showed different patterns of death depending on the varying temperature in PTT, the temperature change of PTT is vital to cell/tissue response in scientific research and clinical application. On one hand, mild PTT has received substantial attention in the treatment of cancer and soft/hard tissue repair. On the other hand, the high temperature induced by PTT is capable of antibacterial capacity, which is better than conventional antibiotic therapy with drug resistance. Herein, we summarize the recent developments in the application of temperature‐dependent photothermal biomaterials, mainly covering the temperature ranges of 40–42°C, 43–50°C, and over 50°C. We highlight the biological mechanism of PTT and the latest progress in the treatment of different diseases. Finally, we conclude by discussing the challenges and perspectives of biomaterials in addressing temperature‐orchestrated PTT. Given a deep understanding of the interaction between temperature and biology, rationally designed biomaterials with sophisticated photothermal responsiveness will benefit the outcomes of personalized PTT toward various diseases.
Polarization‐duplexing of a ytterbium‐doped fiber mode‐locked laser with an intracavity birefringent crystal
Authors: Song Pengye , Tao Jianing , Li Yangyang , Jiang Man , Hou Lei , Liu Hui
Published: December 2022

Polarization‐duplexing of a ytterbium‐doped fiber mode‐locked laser in all‐normal‐dispersion with an intracavity birefringent crystal is demonstrated. The laser outputs two asynchronous pulse trains with slightly different repetition rates, orthogonally crossed polarization, and colinear beams. The optical spectra are highly overlapped. A tuning of the repetition rate difference ranging from 3.7 to 8.6 kHz is realized by adjusting the birefringence in fiber. This laser offers a platform for exploring the compact fiber dual‐comb lasers with tunable repetition rate differences.
Space projectile explosion position calculation method based on curved multi‐lens array sensor
Authors: Zhang Xiaoqian , Li Hanshan
Published: December 2022

In the weapon test range, the space projectile explosion position parameter at the terminal trajectory is an important index to evaluate the damage performance of the projectile fuze. Due to the random distribution of the falling dispersion of the projectile, it is difficult to test the projectile explosion position in the long‐range terminal trajectory falling area. To solve this problem, this paper proposes a method for measuring the projectile explosion position based on ultra‐wide imaging with a multi‐lens array. A curved multi‐lens array optical imaging system is designed and the parameter calculation method of the optical system is presented. The relationship between the space projectile explosion position and the center of the sub‐eye lens and the relationship between the center of the sub‐eye lens and the imaging point of the image sensor is established according to the imaging principle of the optical system. The object image relations of any seven adjacent sub‐eye lenses of the curved multi‐lens array optical imaging system are combined and the calculation model of the space projectile explosion position is deduced. The experimental results verify that the designed curved multi‐lens array optical imaging system and the calculation model of the projectile explosion position proposed in this paper are reasonable.
RETRACTED: Bionic‐structure thermo‐responsive (best) hydrogels with controllable layer for high‐capacity DNA data storage
Authors: Fei Zhongjie , Li Mengjie , Cheng Chu , Tan Guolei , Xiao Pengfeng
Published: December 2022

Here, a new‐rising technology (DNA storage) in which the binary digital information/data is converted into a DNA sequence composed of distinct nucleotides, providing a dense, stable, energy‐efficient, and sustainable data storage solution is studied. In principle, this technology offers substantial data density. However, the theoretical limit of DNA storage has not been achieved yet. In this study, a new DNA storage system is proposed based on hydrogels with SiO2 layer (their pore size can be regulated). The highest data density of the hydrogels is obtained to be 6.3 × 109 GB g−1. Further, by coupling them with digital polymerase chain reaction (dPCR), the recovery limit reaches five copies of DNA. Subsequently, three‐dimensional (3D) printing is used to explore the effect of macrostructures on the DNA storage capacity. Finally, bionic‐structure thermally‐responsive robust (Best) hydrogels with four different structures are developed, which achieve a data density of 1.04 × 1010 GB g−1.
Geophysical mapping of freshwater lens in Big Pine Key, Florida: Electromagnetic Induction Calibration and Application
Authors: Kiflai Michael Eyob , Whitman Dean
Published: December 2022

Geoelectric and electromagnetic (EM) methods are rapid and non‐invasive geophysical techniques for estimating groundwater properties and characterizing the spatial and temporal variability of subsurface formations. However, to quantitatively interpret the EM data, the systematic error due to calibration problems and random error must be considered. We conducted coincident EM and electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) surveys in January and December 2018 on Big Pine Key, FL. In this study, we used vertical electrical sounding (VES) data extracted from a 220 m long ERT profile to calibrate the EM data. The inverted VES data were used as input in the EM forward model to estimate the quadrature component response. Then, the observed offset between the calculated and observed quadrature data was corrected using a multiple linear regression model. Finally, the calibrated quadrature data were converted to apparent electrical conductivity and inverted as a 2‐layer model using both the full solution and the low induction approximation. These models were used to assess the temporal and spatial variations of conductivity on a 2.2 km long E–W trending profile across the island. The calibrated apparent electrical conductivity on the profile decreased between January and December 2018, with the largest decreases in the lower elevation regions of the profile. In addition, the 2‐layer models inverted using the full solution and low induction approximation showed the depth of the freshwater interface increased by December 2018. These observations suggest the recovery of the freshwater lens due to precipitation. Based on this study, we concluded the VES at pilot locations can be used for calibration purposes and verification of the accuracy of EM measurements.
Metabolic effects of lipectomy and of adipose tissue transplantation
Authors: Davis Sarah , Hocking Samantha , Watt Matthew J. , Gunton Jenny E.
Published: December 2022

Objective

The goal of this study was to review the metabolic effects of fat transplantation.

Methods

Fat (adipose tissue [AT]) transplantation has been performed extensively for many years in the cosmetic reconstruction industry. However, not all fats are equal. White, brown, and beige AT differ in energy storage and use. Brown and beige AT consume glucose and lipids for thermogenesis and, theoretically, may provide greater metabolic benefit in transplantation. Here, the authors review the metabolic effects of AT transplantation.

Results

Removal of subcutaneous human AT does not have beneficial metabolic effects. Most studies find no benefit from visceral AT transplantation and some studies report harmful effects. In contrast, transplantation of inguinal or subcutaneous AT in mice has positive effects. Brown AT transplant studies have variable results depending on the model but most show benefit.

Conclusions

Many technical improvements have optimized fat grafting and transplantation in cosmetic surgery. Transplantation of subcutaneous AT has the potential for significant metabolic benefits, although there are few studies in humans or using human AT. Brown AT transplantation is beneficial but not readily feasible in humans thus ex vivo “beiging” may be a useful strategy. AT transplantation may provide clinical benefits in metabolic disorders, especially in the setting of lipodystrophy.
H∞$$ {H}_{\infty } $$ filtering and reduced‐order optimization methods for control of time‐delay linear systems with unknown disturbances and faults
Authors: Li Fengyuan , Zhao Dianli
Published: December 2022

In this paper, the problem of state and fault estimations for a class of linear time‐delay systems is studied, whose state and output are affected by delays and unknown disturbances. To solve this problem, two methods of observer design are proposed in this paper. One is a new sliding mode observer (SMO) based on proper system transformation and filter, the asymptotic stability of state and fault estimation error can be guaranteed. The second one is an adaptive sliding‐mode unknown input observer (ASMUIO), which is developed under the medium rank of the perturbation distribution matrix to estimate the disturbance simultaneously with the state and fault, and then to eliminate the disturbance effect from the estimation error systems. The conditions for the existence of the proposed SMO and ASMUIO and the strict proof of their feasibility are presented. Two numerical examples are given to illustrate the effectiveness of the new methods.
Vitamin D and genetic ancestry are associated with apoptosis rates in benign and malignant prostatic epithelium
Authors: Stinson James , McCall Cordero , Dobbs Ryan W. , Mistry Neil , Rosenberg Adrian , Nettey Oluwarotimi S. , Sharma Pooja , Dixon Michael , Sweis Jamila , Macias Virgilia , Sharifi Roohollah , Kittles Rick A. , Kajdacsy‐Balla Andre , Murphy Adam B.
Published: December 2022

Purpose

Vitamin D metabolites may be protective against prostate cancer (PCa). We conducted a cross‐sectional analysis to evaluate associations between in vivo vitamin D status, genetic ancestry, and degree of apoptosis using prostatic epithelial terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) staining.

Experimental design

Benign and tumor epithelial punch biopsies of participants with clinically localized PCa underwent indirect TUNEL staining. Serum levels of 25 hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] and 1,25 dihydroxyvitamin D were assessed immediately before radical prostatectomy; levels of prostatic 25(OH)D were obtained from the specimen once the prostate was extracted. Ancestry informative markers were used to estimate the percentage of genetic West African, Native American, and European ancestry.

Results

One hundred twenty‐one newly diagnosed men, age 40–79, were enrolled between 2013 and 2018. Serum 25(OH)D correlated positively with both tumor (ρ = 0.17, p = 0.03), and benign (ρ = 0.16, p = 0.04) prostatic epithelial TUNEL staining. Similarly, prostatic 25(OH)D correlated positively with both tumor (ρ = 0.31, p < 0.001) and benign (ρ = 0.20, p = 0.03) epithelial TUNEL staining. Only Native American ancestry was positively correlated with tumor (ρ = 0.22, p = 0.05) and benign (ρ = 0.27, p = 0.02) TUNEL staining. In multivariate regression models, increasing quartiles of prostatic 25(OH)D (β = 0.25, p = 0.04) and Native American ancestry (β = 0.327, p = 0.004) were independently associated with tumor TUNEL staining.

Conclusions

Physiologic serum and prostatic 25(OH)D levels and Native American ancestry are positively associated with the degree of apoptosis in tumor and benign prostatic epithelium in clinically localized PCa. Vitamin D may have secondary chemoprevention benefits in preventing PCa progression in localized disease.
Evaluating the accuracy and reliability of compound‐specific carbon isotopic analysis using gas chromatography‐combustion‐isotope ratio mass spectrometry with the addition of a reduction furnace
Authors: Cao Yunning , Liu Hu , Hu Jing , Wang Zheng , Zhu Mengshu , Liu Xu , Yang Kaili , Gan Haijiao , Liu Weiguo
Published: December 2022

Rationale

Gas chromatography‐combustion‐isotope ratio mass spectrometry (GC/C/IRMS) is widely used for compound‐specific carbon isotopic analysis. However, current isotopic analysis systems utilize the GC IsoLink combustion reactor, and independent reduction furnaces are not implemented. Therefore, whether this limitation in furnace use affects the precision of compound‐specific carbon isotopic analysis needs to be evaluated.

Methods

We attempted to add a separate reduction furnace to the GC IsoLink interface and compared the δ13C values of n‐alkanes (including C and H elements), fatty acid methyl ester (including C, H, and O elements), caffeine (USGS61 and USGS62, including C, H, O, and N elements), and 9‐ethylcarbazole (including C, H, and N elements) before and after the addition of the reduction furnace using the GC IsoLink combustion reactor.

Results

For n‐alkanes and fatty acid methyl esters, the δ13C differences between the measured values and their standard values were basically falling within 0.5‰ whether or not an independent reduction furnace was added. However, for the nitrogen‐containing compounds (caffeine and 9‐ethylcarbazole), the δ13C differences between the measured values and their standard values were much larger without an independent reduction furnace (1.0–3.71‰ for USGS61, 1.78–2.19‰ for USGS62, and 0.39–1.13‰ for 9‐ethylcarbazole) than with a reduction furnace (−0.31–0.68‰ for USGS61, −0.44–0.06‰ for USGS62, and −0.04–0.25‰ for 9‐ethylcarbazole).

Conclusions

The addition of an independent reduction furnace had no significant effect on the δ13C of n‐alkanes and fatty acid methyl esters, but it had a significant effect on the δ13C of nitrogen‐containing compounds. It is suggested that GC IsoLink needs an independent reduction furnace to effectively eliminate the interference of NOx on CO2 isotopic determination to improve the accuracy of δ13C for nitrogen‐containing compounds.
Rapid characterization of isotopic purity of deuterium‐labeled organic compounds and monitoring of hydrogen–deuterium exchange reaction using electrospray ionization‐high‐resolution mass spectrometry
Authors: Zhang Qian , Xia Yaoyu , Song Wei , Chen Chunguang , Wang Hao‐Yang
Published: December 2022

Rationale

Deuterium‐labeled organic compounds, reagents, and drugs are widely used in many scientific research fields. Isotopic purity as the feature parameter of deuterated compounds is of great importance. In this article, we used electrospray ionization with high‐resolution mass spectrometry (ESI‐HRMS) to study isotopic purity of deuterium‐labeled organic compounds based on assigning and distinguishing the corresponding H/D (hydrogen–deuterium) isotopolog ions of deuterated compounds.

Methods

We systematically considered the specific requirements of accuracy and resolution of ESI‐HRMS when measuring isotopic purity and demonstrated some actual cases using ESI‐HRMS and ultraperformance liquid chromatography (UPLC)‐HRMS. Meanwhile, ESI‐HRMS/MS of deuterated compounds was performed to obtain more information on deuterium‐labeled position characterization.

Results

Two isotopic purity calculation methods based on the relative abundance in ESI‐HRMS and UPLC‐HRMS of H/D isotopolog ions (D0–Dn) were compared, which gave consistent isotopic purity values and were in good agreement with the certified isotopic purity values. We further studied and monitored the H/D exchange reaction of ethyl 3‐(4‐bromophenyl)‐3‐oxopropanoate (EBPO) by evaluating the dynamic isotopic purity changes in EBPO‐D2 in the H/D exchange reaction in situ.

Conclusion

The isotopic purity characterization methods using ESI‐HRMS discussed in this article have some outstanding advantages: rapid, highly sensitive, very low sample consumption (even below nanogram level), and deuterated solvent‐free. Thus, this low‐impact analytical method requires less time and is cost effective and might have good application potential for in‐situ isotopic purity analysis and for monitoring the H/D exchange reactions.
A review of path following control strategies for autonomous robotic vehicles: Theory, simulations, and experiments
Authors: Hung Nguyen , Rego Francisco , Quintas Joao , Cruz Joao , Jacinto Marcelo , Souto David , Potes Andre , Sebastiao Luis , Pascoal Antonio
Published: December 2022

This article presents an in‐depth review of path following control strategies that are applicable to a wide range class of marine, ground, and aerial autonomous robotic vehicles. From a control system standpoint, path following can be formulated as the problem of stabilizing a path following error system that describes the dynamics of position and possibly orientation errors of a vehicle with respect to a path, with the errors defined in an appropriate reference frame. In spite of the large variety of path following methods described in the literature we show that, in principle, most of them can be categorized in two groups: stabilization of the path following error system expressed either in the vehicle's body frame or in a frame attached to a “reference point” moving along the path, such as a Frenet‐Serret (F‐S) frame or a Parallel Transport (P‐T) frame. With this observation, we provide a unified formulation that is simple but general enough to cover many methods available in the literature. We then discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each method, comparing them from the design and implementation standpoint. We further show experimental results of the path following methods obtained from field trials testing with under‐actuated and over‐actuated autonomous marine vehicles. In addition, we introduce open‐source Matlab and Gazebo/ROS simulation toolboxes that are helpful in testing path following methods before their integration in the combined guidance, navigation, and control systems of autonomous vehicles.
Effect of Strain Localization on the Mechanical Properties from Nonuniform Grain Size Distribution of Ultralow Carbon Steel
Authors: Kang Chun Gu , Yoon Jeong Whan
Published: December 2022

The effect of the bimodal grain size distribution in the range of several tens of micrometers is studied to investigate the mechanical properties of metallic materials with single‐phase ferritic microstructure. The previous studies on the bimodal distribution of grain size have been performed on materials with nanocrystalline, ultrafine, or multiphase microstructures, and have generally reported that the mixed structure of fine and coarse grains improves the ductility of the material, because the coarser grains preferentially accommodate deformation. However, herein, the coarse grains do not accept the deformation well during plastic deformation and cause nonuniform deformation, which lowers the work hardening coefficient and accelerates necking of sheet. The influence of the bimodal grain size distribution on the mechanical properties is evaluated using tensile and various formability tests. Microstructural changes before and after deformation are tracked by electron backscatter diffraction.
Einsatz vom duroplastischen Spaltausgleichsmaterial DIAMANT MM1018 in vorgespannten geschraubten Verbindungen
Authors: Stranghöner Natalie , Makevičius Lukas , Korbaj Anas , Kunde Carsten
Published: December 2022

Im Stahlbau werden Schraubverbindungen entweder aus Gründen der Tragfähigkeit oder der Gebrauchstauglichkeit vorgespannt. Ein‐ und mehrschnittige Verbindungen in Brücken, Funkmasten und Turmbauwerken von Windenergieanlagen gehören zu den typischen Einsatzgebieten. Eine Spaltbildung, hervorgerufen durch fertigungs‐ und montagebedingte Imperfektionen, stellt ein Risiko z. B. für das kontrollierte Aufbringen des erforderlichen Vorspannkraftniveaus sowie zur Vermeidung von Spaltkorrosion dar. Dies kann die Tragfähigkeit sowie die Dauerhaftigkeit der Verbindung erheblich beeinträchtigen und sogar zu einem vorzeitigen Versagen führen. Die Spaltbildung ist daher auf ein Minimum zu begrenzen, wobei DIN EN 1090‐2 dazu Maßnahmen wie z. B. den Einsatz von Futterblechen vorsieht. Eine mögliche Alternative für den Ausgleich von Spalten stellen Zweikomponenten‐Reaktionsharzsysteme auf Epoxidharzbasis dar, die zur Verbesserung der mechanischen Eigenschaften mit speziellen metallischen Werkstoffen gefüllt sind. Im Rahmen des ZIM‐Kooperationsprojekts „Bri‐San‐T – DuroFüllSta“ wurden systematische Untersuchungen zum Einsatz des duroplastischen Spaltausgleichsmaterials MM1018 der Firma Diamant Polymer GmbH in vorgespannten geschraubten Verbindungen durchgeführt. Im vorliegenden Beitrag werden die experimentell bestimmten Haftreibungszahlen sowie die zu erwartenden Vorspannkraftverluste vorgestellt.
Digitally fabricated weak interfaces to reduce minimum reinforcement in concrete structures
Authors: Bischof Patrick , Mata‐Falcón Jaime , Ammann Rebecca , Näsbom Andreas , Kaufmann Walter
Published: December 2022

Crack initiators in reinforced concrete structures can facilitate fulfilling the serviceability requirements. They can be used as a design parameter to diminish the minimum reinforcement for members subject to imposed deformation and exposed to the environment as they reduce the crack spacing and width when arranged close enough. While crack initiators in conventional concrete construction are cumbersome to provide (e.g., by construction joints or taperings), they are inherent to layered extrusion processes with digital fabrication technologies: the tensile strength is typically reduced locally in interfaces between layers. Rather than trying to avoid these weak interfaces, this paper discusses the potential of taking advantage of them to act as crack initiators reducing the minimum reinforcement content. A tension chord‐based model is developed to (i) account for the local strength reduction and (ii) predict the effect of weak interfaces on the expected crack spacing and width. As a key finding, the model predicts a reduction of the required minimum reinforcement ratio proportional to the locally decreased concrete tensile strength for a specified maximum crack width requirement under imposed deformations. An experimental campaign on five layered and three reference tension ties confirmed the clearly positive impact of weak interfaces on crack spacings and widths.
A new concept of Leptadenia (Apocynaceae)
Authors: Bruyns Peter V. , Hanáček Pavel , Klak Cornelia
Published: December 2022

We revise the concept of Leptadenia. The closely related, small genus Orthanthera (Ceropegieae‐Asclepiadoideae‐Apocynaceae) contains four species, all with tubular flowers. Our phylogenetic reconstructions show that the type of Orthanthera, namely the little‐known Himalayan endemic O. viminea, is deeply nested within Leptadenia, where it is most closely related to the widespread L. pyrotechnica, a species with rotate flowers. Consequently, we deduce that the tubular flowers of Orthanthera viminea evolved separately from those in the other three species of Orthanthera, which are all from Africa south of the equator. These African species form a separate clade, which is sister to the remainder of Leptadenia. We transfer all four species of Orthanthera to Leptadenia to render Leptadenia monophyletic once more. Leptadenia consists of two subgenera: subg. Leptadenia contains the four species previously in Leptadenia and L. viminea (Orthanthera viminea); subg. Barrowia contains the three species L. albida (Orthanthera albida), L. gossweileri (O. gossweileri) and L. jasminiflora (O. jasminiflora) from Africa south of the equator. We highlight the fact that the range from flat to tubular flowers, well‐known in Ceropegia, is also found in each of the three subtribes that are sister to and basal to Ceropegia. A lectotype is selected for Leptadenia and lectotypes and neotypes are selected for several names.
Typification of Linnaean names in the Malvoideae (Malvaceae)
Authors: Dorr Laurence J.
Published: December 2022

Types are designated for the names of four species of Malvoideae (Malvaceae); three described by Linnaeus and one by Jacquin. The names of the three species described by Linnaeus are typified by lectotypes (Alcea ficifolia, Hibiscus aethiopica) and a neotype (H. surattensis). A fourth Linnaean name, Sida triquetra, is an illegitimate superfluous name for S. trisulcata, a Jacquin name for which a neotype is selected.
Regulation of ribonucleoprotein condensates by RNase L during viral infection
Authors: Burke James M.
Published: December 2022

In response to viral infection, mammalian cells activate several innate immune pathways to antagonize viral gene expression. Upon recognition of viral double‐stranded RNA, protein kinase R (PKR) phosphorylates the alpha subunit of eukaryotic initiation factor 2 (eIF2α) on serine 51. This inhibits canonical translation initiation, which broadly antagonizes viral protein synthesis. It also promotes the assembly of cytoplasmic ribonucleoprotein complexes termed stress granules (SGs). SGs are widely thought to promote cell survival and antiviral signaling. However, co‐activation of the OAS/RNase L antiviral pathway inhibits the assembly of SGs and promotes the assembly of an alternative ribonucleoprotein complex termed an RNase L‐dependent body (RLB). The formation of RLBs has been observed in response to double‐stranded RNA, dengue virus infection, or SARS‐CoV‐2 infection. Herein, we review the distinct biogenesis pathways and properties of SGs and RLBs, and we provide perspective on their potential functions during the antiviral response.

This article is categorized under:

RNA Interactions with Proteins and Other Molecules > RNA‐Protein Complexes

RNA Turnover and Surveillance > Regulation of RNA Stability

RNA Export and Localization > RNA Localization
Exploring the coordination of peptide bonds towards beryllium with carboxamides, esters and ketones
Authors: Buchner Magnus R. , Müller Matthias
Published: December 2022

Two carboxamide complexes of BeCl2 with NH functions have been prepared and structurally characterized. Bis(2‐pyrrolidone) beryllium(II) chloride and bis(N‐phenyl acetamide) beryllium(II) chloride show extensive hydrogen bond networks in the solid state, which leads to low solubility in organic solvents. Related complexes bis(phenyl acetate) beryllium(II) chloride and bis(acetophenone) beryllium(II) chloride have also been prepared and structurally characterized. These lack hydrogen bonds in the solid state and are therefore highly soluble in chlorinated solvents.
Failing at the Frontline
Authors: Jancovich Leila , Stevenson David
Published: December 2022

This chapter focuses on the type of failures that practitioners most often recognise. It examines the contested meanings of participation not only between policymakers and practitioners but also between different types of practitioners. This chapter considers the levers and barriers in addressing failures of practice and then presents alternative narratives about these failures that may support or challenge those of policymakers. In doing so, this chapter explores the complexity of failure across multiple agendas and for different stakeholders. Throughout, the theatre company Slung Low is offered as an illustrative example of practice.
On electric fields in hot QCD: perturbation theory
Authors: Endrődi G. , Markó G.
Published: December 2022

Abstract

We investigate the response of a hot gas of quarks to external electric fields via leading-order perturbation theory. In particular, we discuss how equilibrium is maintained in the presence of the electric field and calculate the electric susceptibility, providing its high-temperature expansion for arbitrary quark mass. Furthermore, we point out that there is a mismatch between this, direct determination of the susceptibility at zero field and the weak-field expansion of the effective action at nonzero electric fields, as obtained using Schwinger’s exact propagator. We discuss the origin of this mismatch and elaborate on the generalization of our results to full QCD in electric fields.