bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prognostic capacity of the transcriptional expression of lactate dehydrogenase A in patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Bagué Silvia , León Xavier , Terra Ximena , Lejeune Marylène , Camacho Mercedes , Avilés‐Jurado Francesc‐Xavier
Published: August 2022

Background

To analyze the relationship between the transcriptional expression of lactate dehydrogenase A (LDHA) and the disease control in patients with a head and squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC).

Methods

We determined the transcriptional expression of LDHA in 110 HNSCC patients treated with surgery.

Results

Five‐year disease‐free survival for patients with a high transcriptional expression of LDHA (n = 51) was 39.2% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 25.3%–53.1%), and for patients with a low expression (n = 59), it was 63.6% (95% CI: 51.1%–76.1%) (p = 0.004). According to the results of a multivariate analysis, patients with a high transcriptional expression of LDHA had a 3.4‐fold increased risk of tumor recurrence. Patients with a high transcriptional expression of LDHA tended to show a higher intensity of immunohistochemical expression of LDHA at the tumor cells (p = 0.086).

Conclusion

In HNSCC patients treated with surgery, a high transcriptional expression of LDHA was associated with a significant decrease in disease‐free survival.
Exploring why young Australians participate in the sport of fencing: Future avenues for sports‐based health promotion
Authors: Ganakas Elly , Peden Amy E.
Published: August 2022

Issue addressed

Australian sport policy calls for a diverse sector to get more individuals more active. This study contributes to an evidence base of alternative sport options that may increase physical activity levels in adolescents, as we sought to understand why Australians decide to participate in fencing when aged <18 years.

Methods

A retrospective, mixed‐methods survey design was employed to measure why a participant started fencing and what participants like about fencing compared to other sports. Free‐text qualitative data were analysed thematically. Quantitative data were collected to answer secondary objectives, using nonparametric tests to determine significance between the median scores prefencing and postfencing for enjoyment and frequency of participation.

Results

One hundred and one fencers across Australia who started fencing aged <18 years completed the survey. Respondents primarily started fencing for fun/enjoyment, followed by the desire to try something different/alternative/nonmainstream. Four themes were identified relating to why a participant decided to start fencing: (i) external motivators, (ii) influence of interest and imagination, (iii) developing the self and (iv) the supportive culture.

Conclusions

Fencing may encourage adolescent participation in physical activity due to unique characteristics which attracts individuals for reasons beyond the need to be active alone, and instead affords a space for self‐exploration, learning, and belonging. Further research is required to identify how fencing can engage different cohorts of adolescents, and any barriers to participation.

So what?

Fencing could be utilised to promote engagement in physical activity among Australian adolescents by emphasising the creative, mental, and inclusive aspects of the sport.
Structural changes of erythrocyte membrane revealed by 3D confocal optical profilometer
Authors: Lomanovskaya Tatiana A. , Piavchenko Gennadii A. , Soldatov Vladislav O. , Venediktov Artem A. , Kuzmin Egor A. , Kartashkina Natalia L. , Mukhamedova Svetlana G. , Boronikhina Tatiana V. , Markov Aleksandr G. , Telyshev Dmitry V. , Meglinski Igor , Yatskovskiy Alexander N.
Published: August 2022

We examined hematological changes influenced by the experimental hypervitaminosis A. The 3D confocal optical profilometer was applied for assessment of the erythrocytes' membrane structural changes influenced by an overdose of vitamin A. The blood smears were evaluated in terms of alterations of geometrical and optical parameters of erythrocytes for two groups of animals: oil base and retinol palmitate (n = 9 animals for each group). The results demonstrate that an overdose of retinol palmitate causes changes in the torus curvature and pallor of discocytes, their surface area and volume. The observed structural malformations of the shape of red blood cells become visible at the earlier preclinical stage of changes in animal state and behavior. With this in mind, the results of the study open a new area of research in the certain dysfunction diagnosis of red blood cells and have a great potential in the further development of new curative protocols.
Mitochondria, mitophagy, and the role of deubiquitinases as novel therapeutic targets in liver pathology
Authors: Aryapour Elham , Kietzmann Thomas
Published: August 2022

Liver diseases such as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), fibrosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) have increased over the past few decades due to the absence or ineffective therapeutics. Recently, it has been shown that inappropriate regulation of hepatic mitophagy is linked to the pathogenesis of the above‐mentioned liver diseases. As mitophagy maintains cellular homeostasis by removing damaged and nonfunctional mitochondria from the cell, the proper function of the molecules involved are of utmost importance. Thereby, mitochondrial E3 ubiquitin ligases as well as several deubiquitinases (DUBs) appear to play a unique role for the degradation of mitochondrial proteins and for proper execution of the mitophagy process by either adding or removing ubiquitin chains from target proteins. Therefore, these enzymes could be considered as valuable liver disease biomarkers and also as novel targets for therapy. In this review, we focus on the role of different DUBs on mitophagy and their contribution to NAFLD, NASH, alcohol‐related liver disease, and especially HCC.
CO2 reduction by electropolymerized catalyst of triphenylamine‐substituted iron porphyrin
Authors: Chen Yu‐Hsuan , De Silva Akshitha , Yeh Chen‐Yu
Published: August 2022

A new catalyst, triphenylamine‐substituted iron porphyrin (FeCTP), for CO2 reduction has been synthesized, and its polymer (FeCTP‐film) directly deposited on glassy carbon electrode was made by means of electropolymerization employing cyclic voltammetry technique. This strategy allows us to prepare nondestructive porphyrin catalysts and reduce the amount of the catalyst required for CO2 reduction. The Faradaic efficiencies of CO for FeCTP and FeCTP‐film were estimated to be 48 and 66%, respectively, after the controlled electrolysis for an hour, which were higher than that of FeTPP, 40%.
A strategy to design nonlinear optical materials: Self‐assembling by π ‐ π stacking
Authors: Li Bo , Peng Liang , Xu Chao , Gu Feng Long
Published: August 2022

Lacking high‐performance nonlinear optical (NLO) materials limits the applications to opto‐electronic devices. In this work, a strategy of self‐assembling driven by π‐π stacking is proposed to design high‐performance NLO materials. Here, the third‐order NLO responses of two carbon‐based fuller‐rylenes dimers (Fuller‐PMI and Fuller‐PDI) are theoretically studied. The results mainly highlight the following points: (1) these two dimers are in good thermodynamic and kinetic stability, and the interaction energies of Fuller‐PMI and Fuller‐PDI dimers have reached to −63.50 kcal/mol and −68.18 kcal/mol, respectively; (2) the ratios of the static second order hyperpolarizability (, i∈{x, y, z}) between the dimer and the monomer are = 5.5, = 1.2 and = 1.2 for Fuller‐PMI, = 1.1, =1.4 and = 4.2 for Fuller‐PDI. These results demonstrate that the self‐assembling driven by π‐π stacking is an effective strategy for designing high‐performance NLO materials.
Rethinking scarcity and poverty: Building bridges for shared insight and impact
Authors: Blocker Chris , Zhang Jonathan Z. , Hill Ronald Paul , Roux Caroline , Corus Canan , Hutton Martina , Dorsey Joshua , Minton Elizabeth
Published: August 2022

Resource scarcity is a powerful construct in social sciences. However, explanations about how resources influence overall wellbeing are difficult to generalize since much of the research on scarcity focuses on relatively affluent marketplace conditions, limiting its usefulness to large segments of the global population living in poverty. Conversely, poverty research provides cultural insights into resource deprivation, yet it stops short of explaining the systematic variation of scarce resources among impoverished individuals. To bridge these intellectual silos and advance a deeper understanding of scarcity, we integrate resource scarcity research, which builds upon a psychological tradition to understand various forms of everyday deprivation, with poverty research, which builds upon a sociological tradition to understand extreme and enduring deprivation. We propose a novel framework that integrates the concept of consumption adequacy and clarifies resource scarcity's forms, intensity, duration, and dynamic trajectories. We leverage this framework to generate a research agenda, and we propose ways to stimulate dialog among scarcity and poverty scholars, policymakers, and organizations to help inform impoverished life circumstances and generate effective solutions.
The Role of MR Assessments of Cardiac Morphology, Function, and Tissue Characteristics on Exercise Capacity in Well‐Functioning Older Adults
Authors: Li Qiaowei , Zhong Huijuan , Yu Shun , Cheng Yanling , Dai Yalan , Huang Feng , Lin Zhonghua , Zhu Pengli
Published: August 2022

Background

The relationship between resting cardiac indices and exercise capacity in older adults was still not well understood. New developments in cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) enable a much fuller assessment of cardiac characteristics.

Purpose/Hypothesis

To assess the association between exercise capacity and specific aspects of resting cardiac structure, function, and tissue.

Study Type

Cross‐sectional study.

Population

A total of 112 well‐functioning older adults (mean age 69 years, 52 men).

Field Strength/Sequence

All participants underwent 3.0 T MRI, using scan protocols including balanced steady‐state free precession cine sequence, modified look‐locker inversion recovery, and T2‐prepared single‐shot balanced steady‐state free precession.

Assessment

Demographic and geriatric characteristics were collected. Blood samples were assayed for lipid and glucose related biomarkers. All participants performed a symptom‐limited cardiopulmonary exercise test to achieve peakVO2. Cardiac MRI parameters were measured with semi‐automatic software by S.Y., an 18‐year experienced radiologist.

Statistical Tests

Demographic, geriatric characteristics and MR measurements were compared among quartiles of peakVO2, with different methods according to the data type. Spearman's partial correlation and least absolute shrinkage selection operator regression were performed to select significant MR features associated with peakVO2. Mediation effect analysis was conducted to test any indirect connection between age and peakVO2. A two‐sided P value of <0.05 was defined statistical significance.

Results

Epicardial fat volume, left atrial volume indexed to height, right ventricular end‐systolic volume indexed to body surface area and global circumferential strain (GCS) were correlated with peakVO2 (regression coefficients were −0.040, −0.093, 0.127, and 0.408, respectively). Mediation analysis showed that the total effect of peakVO2 change was 43.6% from the change of age. The proportion of indirect effect from epicardial fat volume and GCS were 11.8% and 15.1% in total effect, respectively.

Data Conclusion

PeakVO2 was associated with epicardial fat volume, left atrial volume, right ventricular volume and GCS of left ventricle.

Evidence Level

4

Technical Efficacy

Stage 5
Metabolomic fingerprint of Hamamelis virginiana L. gallotannins by suspect screening analysis with UHPLC‐qToF and their semiquantitative evaluation
Authors: Burico Michela , Fodaroni Giada , Flamini Enrico , Ascani Nicola , Proietti Giacomo , Tamimi Sara , Quintiero Claudio Marzio , Massa Luca , Gianni Mattia , Mattoli Luisa
Published: August 2022

The evolution of the regulatory framework for medical devices in the EU (Reg 2017/745) has opened the study of complex systems emerging properties. This makes necessary to identify new analytical approaches able of characterizing complex natural substrates as completely as possible. Therefore, omics approaches and advanced analytical methods for the determination of metabolite classes appear to be at the forefront to meet this need. In this perspective, a new approach based on the suspect screening was developed to detect gallotannins. Gallotannins are a class of phenols with a polymeric nature; thus, there are no pure analytical standards available for all possible structures and their quali‐quantitative determination in complex natural substrates can be a challenge. A new UHPLC‐qToF method was developed and used to create an “in‐house tannin database” with a dual purpose: (1) as a classic list of suspects and (2) to identify core fragments common to gallotannins to have another list of putative suspects based on the common fragment. The method was validated. The application of the method to a “system of molecules” extracted from the leaves of Hamamelis virginiana L. (Witch‐hazel) allowed to the characterization of a total of 29 phenols by a suspect screening approach. Therefore, 15 gallotannins were putatively annotated while another 3 were confidently identified. All the gallotannins were semiquantified according to external regression curves of gallic acid and hamamelitannin based on core fragments at m/z 125.0244 and m/z 169.0142, the building blocks of the polymers. This new method provides a practical fit‐to‐purpose approach for the quali‐quantitative screening evaluation of gallotannins, useful for creating multivariate control charts applicable in process development of complex natural systems or in quality control. The approach is innovative, and after specific checks, it can in principle be suitable for metabolomic fingerprint analysis of gallotannins among witch‐hazel extract (WHE) samples.
A climatological study of fog in Turkey
Authors: Baltaci Hakki , da Silva Maria Cristina Lemos , Gomes Helber Barros
Published: August 2022

In this study, climatological properties of fog types, their association with surrounding environment and background synoptic mechanisms triggering fog formation are investigated for Turkey. For this purpose, SYNOP (surface synoptic observations) and METAR (meteorological aerodrome report) codes of 105 stations are used for the period 2014–2019. While fog types are separated to the fog, quasi‐fog, and dense fog events according to horizontal visibility conditions, stations are classified as mountain, seaside, urban, and rural by considering the surrounding environment. Synoptic mechanisms causing the occurrence of springtime marine fog events over Black Sea are investigated using NCEP/NCAR Reanalysis. According to the main results, highest numbers of fog events are observed during winter, spring, fall, and summer months, respectively. Radiation fog frequently occurs in the mountainous regions (i.e., central and eastern part) of Turkey during winter. As a result of the rainfall during daytime, significant amount of moisture begins to saturation at night owing to rapid cooling processes and fog layer forms just above the surface. During spring, Black Sea‐effect marine fog events are frequently shown in the seaside stations of the Black Sea and northeastern Marmara regions. On the western Black Sea, winds from northeast enable rising of cold sea water to the surface (upwelling) and transfer it to the relatively warm land areas. Denser humid and cold air settling on the surface forces warm land air to rise. Additionally, warm air advection at 850 hPa (low level) creates a thick inversion layer over the region. For the eastern Black Sea, relatively cold and humid sea surface transferred to the coasts by light local northwesterly winds encounters with the mountain barrier and is trapped in the region. Furthermore, southerly winds (850 hPa) cross over the Kaçkar Mountains cause föehn effect and generate an inversion layer over the fog layer.
Modelling wind speed across Zambia: Implications for wind energy
Authors: Libanda Brigadier , Paeth Heiko
Published: August 2022

Wind energy is a key option in global dialogues about climate change mitigation. Here, we combined observations from surface wind stations, reanalysis datasets, and state‐of‐the‐art regional climate models from the Coordinated Regional Climate Downscaling Experiment (CORDEX Africa) to study the current and future wind energy potential in Zambia. We found that winds are dominated by southeasterlies and are rarely strong with an average speed of 2.8 m·s−1. When we converted the observed surface wind speed to a turbine hub height of 100 m, we found a ~38% increase in mean wind speed for the period 1981–2000. Further, both simulated and observed wind speed data show statistically significant increments across much of the country. The only areas that divert from this upward trend of wind speeds are the low land terrains of the Eastern Province bordering Malawi. Examining projections of wind power density (WPD), we found that although wind speed is increasing, it is still generally too weak to support large‐scale wind power generation. We found a meagre projected annual average WPD of 46.6 W·m−2. The highest WPDs of ~80 W·m−2 are projected in the northern and central parts of the country while the lowest are to be expected along the Luangwa valley in agreement with wind speed simulations. On average, Zambia is expected to experience minor WPD increments of 0.004 W·m−2 per year from 2031 to 2050. We conclude that small‐scale wind turbines that accommodate cut‐in wind speeds of 3.8 m·s−1 are the most suitable for power generation in Zambia. Further, given the limitations of small wind turbines, they are best suited for rural and suburban areas of the country where obstructions are few, thus making them ideal for complementing the government of the Republic of Zambia's rural electrification efforts.
Readjustable Sling in Women With Stress Urinary Incontinence and Hypomobile Urethra: Understanding the Mechanisms of Closure by Transperineal Ultrasound
Authors: Ros Cristina , Escura Sílvia , Anglès‐Acedo Sònia , Bataller Eduardo , Amat Lluís , Sánchez Emília , Espuña‐Pons Montserrat , Carmona Francisco
Published: August 2022

Objectives

To assess the postsurgical sonographic parameters of a readjustable sling (RAS) according to urinary incontinence (UI) symptoms after surgery and compare this RAS sonographic pattern with mid‐urethral slings (MUS).

Methods

Observational, prospective multicenter study, including women undergoing stress urinary incontinence (SUI) surgery with RAS (Remeex®). The primary outcome was the association between UI symptoms and sonographic parameters measured by two‐dimensional transperineal and high‐frequency endovaginal ultrasound. We measured static parameters (bladder neck funneling, RAS position, symmetry, distance to the urethral lumen), and the movement of the sling on Valsalva. UI symptoms were measured with the postsurgical Incontinence Questionnaire‐Short Form (ICIQ‐UI‐SF) questionnaire. We created two control groups including patients with transobturator‐MUS (TOT‐MUS) and retropubic‐MUS (RT‐MUS) to compare postsurgical sonographic parameters of RAS with MUS.

Results

Among the 55 women with RAS included, the postoperative ICIQ‐UI‐SF scores were significantly higher in patients with bladder neck funneling (15.0 (3.9) vs 10.6 (6.7); P = .020) and in those with discordant movement of RAS on Valsalva (14.6 (5.7) vs 10.3 (6.7); P = .045). Compared with the 109 women with TOT‐MUS and the 55 with RT‐MUS, RAS was more often located in the proximal urethra and farther from the urethral lumen.

Conclusions

Postsurgical pelvic floor ultrasound demonstrated that in women with complex SUI and hypomobile urethra who underwent RAS (Remeex®) surgery, the presence of bladder neck funneling and discordant movement on Valsalva correlate with the persistence of UI symptoms. In these women, RAS is more often located in the proximal urethra and farther from the urethral lumen at rest in comparison with MUS.
High temperature corrosion behavior of alloys in reducing HCl and H2S containing environments: Thermodynamical and experimental assessment
Authors: Nimmervoll Manuela , Mori Gregor , Bucher Edith , Hönig Stefan , Haubner Roland
Published: August 2022

High‐temperature corrosion mechanisms in reducing atmospheres containing HCl (3.8 vol%) and a varying amount of H2S (0.02 –2 vol%) were developed for several alloys between 420°C and 680°C. These mechanisms are mainly based on practical observations and kinetic considerations—and less on thermodynamic data. This is due to the complexity of these mixed gas atmospheres, volatile corrosion products, and the ever‐changing conditions within the corrosion layer, which made it not possible to predict and calculate the actual conditions in the corrosion zone. In this article, a detailed thermodynamic analysis of previously achieved corrosion mechanisms and experimental observations is presented. Correlations and deviations between thermodynamic calculations and practical findings are stated and discussed. The corrosion behavior of ferritic K90941, which performs worse than corrosion‐resistant austenitic alloys, except for one test condition at 580°C in the atmosphere with 0.2 vol% H2S, is explained and supported by thermodynamic data. By combining experiments with thermodynamics, corrosion mechanisms in reducing HCl and H2S‐containing atmospheres are explained.
Synergistic Effect of Mesoporous SBA‐15 Particles and Processing Strategy for Improving PLA Crystallization Capability in their Composites
Authors: Díez‐Rodríguez Tamara M. , Blázquez‐Blázquez Enrique , Barranco‐García Rosa , Pérez Ernesto , Cerrada María L.
Published: August 2022

Several composites based on an L‐rich poly(lactic acid) (PLA) and mesoporous Santa Barbara Amorphous‐15  (SBA‐15) are prepared by their addition through two methods: solution‐mixed (solvent casting) or melt‐mixed (extrusion). Subsequently, films of all the materials are processed by compression molding. The nucleating capacity of silica on PLA crystallization is found to be strongly dependent on protocol used for SBA‐15 incorporation. Thus, mesoporous particles induce some PLA ordering in composites when extrusion is used but nucleating ability is much more remarkable when PLA‐SBA composites are prepared by SBA‐15 addition through casting, PLA crystallization being observed on cooling even at 40 °C min−1. Crystallinity, crystallization temperature, and polymorphs developed are also dependent on preparation method and cooling rate. Mechanical properties are tested on the just compressed‐molded films. At a given SBA‐15 content, the melt‐mixed composite is less stiff than the solution‐mixed material despite both are completely amorphous. Accordingly, microhardness shows a smaller value in the former. For the solution‐mixed approach, a partial coating (either external or internal) of the silica particles by PLA chains is suggested to occur during the first preparation stage, enabling a better transfer of reinforcement exerted by SBA‐15 silica into the PLA matrix.
Fabrication of Adsorption‐Type Hierarchical Functional Films by Using a Facile Swollen Based Breath Figure Method
Authors: Qu Ting , Chang Qicheng , You Dekang , Huang Man , Gong Xianyan , Wang Jie , Li Bojie , Zheng Genwen , Hu Fuqiang , Zhong Fei , Gong Chunli , Liu Hai
Published: August 2022

The morphology transition from primary to hierarchical adsorption‐type microporous domains of amphiphilic block copolymer (BCP) honeycomb‐structured films is demonstrated by a facile swollen based breath figure (BF) method. The characteristic parameters of poly(4‐vinylpyridine)‐block‐polystyrene (P4VP‐b‐PS) hierarchical micro‐ and submicroporous films can be controlled by changing the length of segments or subsequent swelling conditions. A plausible mechanism is demonstrated in this research. A typical amphiphilic BCP with very low volume content of hydrophilic blocks (fP4VP ≤ 0.050) can efficiently stabilize water droplets and inherently assist in the formation of morphology transition. This BCP film can be used for Cr(VI) removal from wastewater, which additionally has enormous potential application in the field of novel optical devices, soft lithography, size‐selective separation, etc.
Enhanced effect of combining bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMMSCs) and pulsed electromagnetic fields (PEMF) to promote recovery after spinal cord injury in mice
Authors: Huang Liyi , Sun Xin , Wang Lu , Pei Gaiqing , Wang Yang , Zhang Qing , Liang Zejun , Wang Dong , Fu Chenying , He Chengqi , Wei Quan
Published: August 2022

Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a destructive traumatic disease of the central nervous system without satisfying therapy efficiency. Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMMSCs) therapy promotes the neurotrophic factors’ secretion and axonal regeneration, thereby promoting recovery of SCI. Pulsed electromagnetic fields (PEMF) therapy has been proven to promote neural growth and regeneration. Both BMMSCs and PEMF have shown curative effects for SCI; PEMF can further promote stem cell differentiation. Thus, we explored the combined effects of BMMSCs and PEMF and the potential interaction between these two therapies in SCI. Compared with the SCI control, BMMSCs, and PEMF groups, the combinational therapy displayed the best therapeutic effect. Combinational therapy increased the expression levels of nutritional factors including brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), nerve growth factors (NGF) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), enhanced neuron preservation (NeuN and NF‐200), and increased axonal growth (MBP and myelin sheath). Additionally, PEMF promoted the expression levels of BDNF and VEGF in BMMSCs via Wnt/β‐catenin signaling pathway. In summary, the combined therapy of BMMSCs and PEMF displayed a more satisfactory effect than BMMSCs and PEMF therapy alone, indicating a promising application of combined therapy for the therapy of SCI.
Excessive banking preference in emissions trading
Authors: Song Jae‐Do
Published: August 2022

Firms tend to bank permits excessively, resulting in a lack of supply in the market and uncertainty regarding the ability to achieve the planned emissions target. This excessive banking preference is difficult to explain in terms of rational cost minimization for regulatory compliance. This study provides hypotheses to explain banking preference using cognitive bias concepts such as prospect theory, mental accounting, and regret aversion. The hypotheses are supported by three survey‐based experiments. This view of cognitive bias on banking preference justifies the use of active measures to prevent excessive banking, such as market makers and market restrictions.
On critical exponents for weak solutions to the Cauchy problem for one nonlinear equation with gradient nonlinearity
Authors: Korpusov Maxim O. , Matveeva Alexandra K.
Published: August 2022

In this paper, we consider the Cauchy problem for one nonclassical, third‐order, partial differential equation with gradient nonlinearity
. The solution to this problem is understood in a weak sense. We show that for
, there are no local‐in‐time weak solutions of this problem with initial data
from the class
whereas for
, such a solution exists. For
, the Cauchy problem proved not to have global‐in‐time weak solutions. For
, we show finite‐time blow‐up of unique local‐in‐time weak solution of the Cauchy problem without dependence from the initial functions from the class
As a technique, we obtain Schauder‐type estimates for potentials. We use them to investigate smoothness of the weak solution to the Cauchy problem for
and
Mathematical modeling of respiratory viral infection and applications to SARS‐CoV‐2 progression
Authors: Ait Mahiout Latifa , Bessonov Nikolai , Kazmierczak Bogdan , Volpert Vitaly
Published: August 2022

Viral infection in cell culture and tissue is modeled with delay reaction‐diffusion equations. It is shown that progression of viral infection can be characterized by the viral replication number, time‐dependent viral load, and the speed of infection spreading. These three characteristics are determined through the original model parameters including the rates of cell infection and of virus production in the infected cells. The clinical manifestations of viral infection, depending on tissue damage, correlate with the speed of infection spreading, while the infectivity of a respiratory infection depends on the viral load in the upper respiratory tract. Parameter determination from the experiments on Delta and Omicron variants allows the estimation of the infection spreading speed and viral load. Different variants of the SARS‐CoV‐2 infection are compared confirming that Omicron is more infectious and has less severe symptoms than Delta variant. Within the same variant, spreading speed (symptoms) correlates with viral load allowing prognosis of disease progression.
Valuing Angling on Reservoirs Using Benefit Transfer
Authors: Melstrom Richard T. , Kaemingk Mark A. , Cole Nicholas W. , Whitehead John C. , Chizinski Christopher J. , Pope Kevin L.
Published: August 2022

Economic assessments are rarely applied to inland recreational fisheries for management purposes, especially when compared to fish, habitat, and creel assessments, yet economic assessments can provide critical information for management decisions. We provide a brief overview of economic value, key terminology, and existing economic techniques to address these issues. Benefit transfer, a technique used to measure economic value when an original analysis is not practicable, is conducted by drawing on existing estimates of economic value in similar contexts. We describe an application of benefit transfer to measure the economic value of several recreational fisheries in Nebraska, USA. We examine two approaches to benefit transfer—value transfer and function transfer—which we demonstrate estimate similar economic values for fishing site access but substantially different economic values for catch rate improvements at some reservoirs. We encourage agencies that are responsible for inland recreational fisheries management to consider economic assessment, especially benefit transfer, as a critical tool in the management toolbox.
An anatomical pathway for restoration of bladder neck closure by a midurethral sling, according to the integral theory
Authors: Petros Peter E. P.
Published: August 2022

A firm pubourethral ligament (PUL) is required to prevent the reflex posterior pelvic muscle forces forcibly opening out the posterior urethral wall on effort. A weak or loose PUL elongates on effort and this allows the posterior pelvic muscles to stretch open the posterior urethral wall causing urine loss, “stress urinary incontinence.” Such forcible opening out of the urethra exponentially reduces the urethral resistance to flow inversely by the fourth power of the radius (i.e., 16 times). For example, if the radius doubles in size, the bladder pressure required for urine to flow out decreases by a factor of 16, from say, 160 to 10 cm H2O. A midurethral sling reinforces PUL to prevent the urethra opening out, thereby restoring both the distal urethral and bladder neck closure mechanisms.
Anisotropic immersed finite element methods for 1D elliptic interface systems
Authors: Zhang Huili , Feng Xinlong , Wang Kun
Published: August 2022

In this article, we study anisotropic immersed finite element (AIFE) methods for the elliptic interface system. After establishing the existence and uniqueness of the weak solution, we construct a linear AIFE method for solving the interface system. Different from the scalar problem, the jump conditions for each unknown function are coupled together in the anisotropic problem considered here. Through defining suitable interpolations, we deduce the error estimates in and for the proposed AIFE method. Moreover, we show some numerical experiments to verify the correction of the theoretical predictions.
Hemodynamic and anatomic changes after fetal aortic valvuloplasty are associated with procedural success and postnatal biventricular circulation
Authors: Bradford Victoria R. , Tworetzky Wayne , Callahan Ryan , Wilkins‐Haug Louise E. , Benson Carol B. , Porras Diego , Guseh Stephanie H. , Lu Minmin , Sleeper Lynn A. , Gellis Laura , Friedman Kevin G.
Published: August 2022

Background

There are minimal data characterizing the trajectory of left heart growth and hemodynamics following fetal aortic valvuloplasty (FAV).

Methods

This retrospective study included patients who underwent FAV between 2000 and 2019, with echocardiograms performed pre‐FAV, immediately post‐FAV, and in late gestation.

Results

Of 118 fetuses undergoing FAV, 106 (90%) underwent technically successful FAV, of which 55 (52%) had biventricular circulation. Technically successful FAV was associated with improved aortic valve growth (p < 0.001), sustained antegrade aortic arch (AoA) flow (p = 0.02), improved mitral valve (MV) inflow pattern (p = 0.002), and favorable patent foramen ovale (PFO) flow pattern (p = 0.004) from pre‐FAV to late gestation. Compared to patients with univentricular outcome, patients with biventricular outcome had less decrement in size of the left ventricle (LV) (p < 0.001) and aortic valve (p = 0.005), as well as more physiologic PFO flow (p < 0.001) and antegrade AoA flow (p < 0.001) from pre‐FAV to late gestation. In multivariable analysis, echocardiographic predictors of biventricular outcome were less decline in LV end diastolic dimension (p < 0.001), improved PFO flow (p = 0.004), and sustained antegrade AoA flow (p = 0.002) from pre‐FAV to late gestation.

Conclusion

Stabilization of left heart growth and improved hemodynamics following successful FAV through late gestation are associated with postnatal biventricular circulation.
Pep2Graph: A standalone tool to analyse proteolytic cleavages by proteases from gel‐based mass spectrometry data
Authors: Gummadi Sriram , Kang Taeyoung , Fonseka Pamali , Chitti Sai V. , Ang Ching‐Seng , Mathivanan Suresh
Published: August 2022

Proteases are enzymes that regulate substrates via proteolytic activation and coordinate essential cellular functions including DNA replication, DNA transcription, cell proliferation, differentiation, migration and apoptosis. However, techniques to identify proteolytic events in a high‐throughput manner is limited. PROtein TOpography and Migration Analysis Platform (PROTOMAP) is a technique that relies on mass spectrometry‐based proteomics to globally identify the shifts in the in‐gel migration of proteins and their corresponding fragments that are obtained by proteolysis. However, user‐friendly software tool to analyse the proteomic data to identify proteolytic events is needed. Here, we report Pep2Graph, a user‐friendly standalone tool that integrates peptide sequence information from in‐gel proteomics and presents the data as two‐dimensional peptographs with in‐gel migration, sequence coverage and MS/MS spectra counts. Pep2Graph (http://www.mathivananlab.org/Pep2Graph) allows users to utilize in‐gel proteomics data to study proteolytic events that may play a significant role in normal physiology and pathology.
Effects of Strain‐Induced Cyclic Transformation on the Microstructure of the Peened Surface of SUS 304 Austenitic Stainless Steel
Authors: Nakagawara Yuji , Sato Hisashi , Moritani Tomokazu , Watanabe Yoshimi
Published: August 2022

The effects of strain‐induced cyclic transformation on surface microstructure are investigated for SUS 304 austenitic stainless steel. The strain‐induced cyclic transformation comprises the repetition of the strain‐induced martensitic transformation and the strain‐induced reverse transformation. Herein, the strain‐induced cyclic transformation is performed by the repetition of shot‐peening (SP) tests at room temperature and at 200 °C. SP at room temperature effects a martensitic transformation, whereas the reverse transformation, from martensite to austenite, is induced by SP at 200 °C. Compared with that of a specimen treated by conventional SP, the surface hardness of a specimen treated by strain‐induced cyclic transformation using SP is higher, because the dislocation density on the peened surface increases and the microstructure is refined. Therefore, the strain‐induced cyclic transformation affected by SP can enhance the surface mechanical properties of steels.
Machine learning of atomic forces from quantum mechanics: An approach based on pairwise interatomic forces
Authors: Ramzan Ismaeel , Kalayan Jas , Kong Linghan , Bryce Richard A. , Burton Neil A.
Published: August 2022

In this work, we explore a machine learning approach based on pairwise interatomic forces to directly predict atomic forces in a molecule to quantum chemical accuracy. The scheme, denoted pairF‐Net, uses a neural network designed and trained to predict Cartesian forces as a linear combination of a set of force components in an interatomic basis; these pairwise forces exhibit chemically intuitive profiles and implicitly maintain rotational and translational invariance. Application of the approach to model small molecule systems indicates an accuracy in reconstructed Cartesian atomic forces of ~1 kcal mol−1 Å−1 from the reference force values obtained via density functional theory. The pairF‐Net scheme predicts atomic forces at a quantum mechanical level but at a fraction of the cost, enabling molecular dynamics simulations via a chemically intuitive machine learning model.
TD‐DFT modeling of electronic spectra of biliverdins in different environments
Authors: Mirón Gonzalo Díaz , Estrin Darío A. , Bari Sara Elizabeth , González Lebrero Mariano Camilo
Published: August 2022

Non covalent biliproteins are found in a growing number of living organisms and even in viruses, such as SARS‐CoV‐2. Unlike the well described covalent biliproteins, such as the phytochromes, they present a vast structural and functional diversity, and often with limited experimental information. A very important tool (and sometimes the only one available) to study these systems is the UV–Vis spectrum, which is modulated both by conformational changes of the biliverdin chromophore and specific interactions with the apoprotein. In this work we present a theoretical study of the microscopic determinants of the UV–Vis spectrum of these compounds through the use of hybrid QM(TD‐DFT)/MM techniques and molecular dynamics simulations. Comparing our results with existing experimental data, we prove that it is possible to predict spectroscopic properties, such as relative position and intensity ratio of main bands, with affordable methods, and to provide a microscopic explanation of them. This systematic information can be very useful for the study of described biliproteins or for those yet unknown.
Reinforcement learning‐based tracking control for a quadrotor unmanned aerial vehicle under external disturbances
Authors: Liu Hui , Li Bo , Xiao Bing , Ran Dechao , Zhang Chengxi
Published: August 2022

This article addresses the high‐accuracy intelligent trajectory tracking control problem of a quadrotor unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) subject to external disturbances. The tracking error systems are first reestablished by utilizing the feedforward control technique to compensate for the raw error dynamics of the quadrotor UAV. Then, two novel appointed‐fixed‐time observers are designed for the processed error systems to reconstruct the disturbance forces and torques, respectively. And the observation errors can converge to origin within the appointed time defined by users or designers. Subsequently, two novel control policies are developed utilizing reinforcement learning methodology, which can balance the control cost and control performance. Meanwhile, two critic neural networks are used to replace the traditional actor‐critic networks for approximating the solutions of Hamilton–Jacobi–Bellman equations. More specifically, two novel weight update laws are developed. They can not only update the weights of the critic neural networks online, but also avoid utilizing the persistent excitation condition innovatively. And that the ultimately uniformly bounded stability of the whole control system is proved according to Lyapunov method by utilizing the proposed reinforcement learning‐based control polices. Finally, simulation results are presented to illustrate the effectiveness and superior performances of the developed control scheme.
Microwave‐Assisted Synthesis of Aromatic Thiadiazol Crown Ethers and Determination of Complexation Properties with Metal Ions by Application of Job′s Plot Method to Conductometry
Authors: Canbolat Musa , Çalışır Ümit , Çiçek Baki
Published: August 2022

The microwave‐assisted synthesis technique, one of the pioneers of green chemistry, was used to synthesize aromatic thiadiazole crown ethers in this study. Thiadiazole crown ethers were synthesized by the cyclization reaction of 2‐amino‐5‐mercapto‐1,3,4‐thiadiazole and mono‐di‐tri‐tetra ethylene glycol dichloride compounds using the SN2 reaction mechanism in acetonitrile solvent and the presence of cesium carbonate base. FT‐IR, 1H‐NMR, 13C‐NMR, LC‐MS/MS spectroscopic techniques, and elemental analysis were used to characterize the synthesized compounds after purification. Furthermore, the conductivity behaviour of the synthesized compounds against metal salts (NaCl, KCl, MgCl2, CaCl2, ZnCl2, FeSO4, AgNO3, CoCl2) was determined using Job′s Plot technique, which was adapted to conductometry. Interactions between ligands and ions were investigated. According to conductometric data, thiadiazole crown ethers showed significant complexations; M1 and M4 with Ca2+, M2 with Fe2+, and M3 with Co2+ ions.
Guanylguanidines: Catalyst and Ligand for Organic Transformations
Authors: Bankar Apoorva A. , Kathuria Deepika
Published: August 2022

Guanylguanidines are well known for their wide range of therapeutic applications such as antidiabetic, anticancer, antifilarial, antitrypanosomal, antiaging, etc. Apart from this, they have been explored in the field of crystal engineering, organic synthesis as substrate, non‐linear optics etc. Their metal complexation ability and superbasic nature has paved their way in the field of organocatalysis. In the recent past, various guanylguanidine derivatives have been synthesized and have proven to be excellent catalysts in several organic reactions which include transesterification, C−C and C−N coupling, oxidation, reduction, Beckmann rearrangement etc. However, the limited studies call for more focused research in this direction to fasten the process of development of environmental‐friendly methods. In this review, a comprehensive and systematic discussion of guanylguanidine based catalysts and their applications in various organotransformations has been compiled and discussed meticulously. This review aims to highlight guanylguanidine moiety as a potential catalyst that can be utilized for design and development of novel guanylguanidine based catalysts.
Production of light olefins and C5+ hydrocarbons in the Fischer‐Tropsch synthesis by using inorganic precursor
Authors: Saheli Sania , Reza Rezvani Ali , Moghaddami Ahmad , Dusek Michal , Samolova Erika
Published: August 2022

The role of the synthetic route in Fischer‐Tropsch synthesis (FTS) over the Ba−Co‐Mn catalysts was investigated in the fixed bed micro reactor. Synthesis of catalysts through inorganic complex [Ba0.5Co0.34Mn0.66(btc)2(H2O)5] (1) led to enhancement of the surface area and decreased particle sizes. Therefore, the catalytic activity of catalysts prepared this way was improved as well as their olefins and C5+ selectivity. The synthesised catalysts prepared by inorganic precursor had higher selectivity to heavier hydrocarbons at high pressure in comparison to lower pressure.
Preparation of Visible‐Light‐Driven Ag/BiVO4 Photocatalysts and Their Performance for Cr(VI) Reduction
Authors: Wang Wenqin , Zhao Yubao , Wang Ruibin
Published: August 2022

Ag/BiVO4 that can serve as a visible light‐driven photocatalyst was synthesized by a simple one‐step hydrothermal method. The morphology and structure were analyzed by SEM and XRD, and the optical electrochemical properties were investigated by spectroscopic experiments. The experimental results found the introduction of Ag can significantly improve the photocatalytic performance of BiVO4 irradiated by a 10 W white LED. Among them, Ag/BiVO4(Ag : Bi=1 : 20) gives the best reduction activity: the reduction ratio of Cr(VI) hits 99.3 %. This result shows that the activity of BiVO4 for photocatalytic reduction of chromium can increase over 6‐fold by the introduction of Ag with a suitable amount. Exploration experiments of reusability show that the material has high photocatalytic performance.
Bacterial Pyruvate Kinase: A New Potential Target to Combat Drug‐Resistant Staphylococcus aureus Infections
Authors: Akunuri Ravikumar , Unnissa Tanveer , Vadakattu Manasa , Bujji Sushmitha , Mahammad Ghouse Shaik , Madhavi Yaddanapudi Venkata , Chopra Sidharth , Nanduri Srinivas
Published: August 2022

Severity of Infections caused by Staphylococcus aureus ranges from trivial to spine chilling. Irrespective of multiple drugs availability to treat S. aureus infections, increase in drug‐resistance has led to the continuous emergence of resistant strains of all S. aureus including MRSA. Hence, there is an urgent unmet need for novel antibacterial agents to combat multi drug resistant infections which act through unexploited targets/mechanism. Bacterial pyruvate kinase (PK) is one such unique cytoplasmic enzyme crucial in carbohydrate metabolism. It exists in several microorganisms including Mycobacterium sp, P. falciparaum, T. gondii, L. mexicana, V. cholera, etc. In MRSA, PK is an important hub in protein‐protein network with more than 200 interacting partners in a large‐scale protein interaction analysis and might be less susceptible to genetic mutation and resistance due to the network centrality‐lethality criteria. Methicillin resistant S. aureus pyruvate kinase (SAPK) antisense and knockout tests revealed that it is required for growth of MRSA. In recent times, PKs gained attention as potential new targets to combat trypanosomal, leishmanial, malarial and viral infections. This review provides valuable insights about indole alkaloids from natural products and synthetic SAPK inhibitors along with their inhibitory properties against S. aureus and MRSA strains. This review also describes essential structural features and Structure‐Activity Relationship (SAR) for SAPK inhibition.