bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fully Data‐Driven Time‐Delay Interferometry with Time‐Varying Delays
Authors: Baghi Quentin , Baker John G. , Slutsky Jacob , Thorpe James Ira
Published: March 2023

Raw space‐based gravitational‐wave data like laser interferometer space antenna's (LISA) phase measurements are dominated by laser frequency noise. The standard technique to make this data usable for gravitational‐wave detection is time‐delay interferometry (TDI), which cancels laser noise terms by forming suitable combinations of delayed measurements. To do so, TDI relies on inter‐spacecraft distances and on how laser noise enters the interferometric data. The basic concepts of an alternative approach which does not rely on independent knowledge of temporal correlations in the dominant noise recently introduced. Instead, this automated principal component interferometry (aPCI) approach only assumes that one can produce some linear combinations of the temporally nearby regularly spaced phase measurements, which cancel the laser noise. Then the data is let to reveal those combinations, thus providing a set of laser‐noise‐free data channels. The authors' previous approach relies on the simplifying additional assumption that the filters which lead to the laser‐noise‐free data streams are time‐independent. In LISA, however, these filters will vary as the constellation armlengths evolve. Here, a generalization of the basic aPCI concept compatible with data dominated by a still unmodeled but slowly varying dominant noise covariance is discussed. Despite its independence on any model, aPCI successfully mitigates laser frequency noise below the other noises' level, and its sensitivity to gravitational waves is the same as the state‐of‐the‐art second‐generation TDI, up to a 2% error.
Retardation Effect and Dark State in a Waveguide QED Setup With Rectangle Cross Section
Authors: Xue Yang , Wang Zhihai
Published: March 2023

This paper investigates the dynamics of two two‐level atoms, which simultaneously couple to a quasi‐1D waveguide with rectangular cross section. The waveguide modes serve as environment, which induces the interaction and collective dissipation between the two distant atoms. When both of the two atoms are located in the middle of the waveguide, a retardation effect is observed, which can be broken by moving one of the atoms away from the center of the waveguide. To preserve the complete dissipation of the system via dark state mechanism, a scheme where the connection of the atoms is perpendicular to the axis of the waveguide is proposed.
Transformation of an Imine Cage to a Covalent Organic Framework Film at the Liquid–Liquid Interface
Authors: Giri Arkaprabha , Shreeraj G. , Dutta Tapas Kumar , Patra Abhijit
Published: March 2023

Dynamic covalent chemistry (DCC) opens up a fascinating route for the construction of well‐organized supramolecular architectures, starting from organic molecular cages to crystalline macromolecular covalent organic frameworks (COFs). Herein, for the first time, we have manifested a facile room‐temperature DCC‐directed transformation of discrete organic imine cage‐to‐COF film at the liquid–liquid interface. The unfolding of the cage leading to the generation of imine intermediates, followed by their interface‐assisted preorganization and subsequent growth of the COF film, are elucidated through detailed spectroscopic and microscopic investigations. The interfacial cage‐to‐COF transformation provides a facile route for the faster fabrication of free‐standing COF films with high porosity and crystallinity, demonstrating excellent performance towards molecular sieving and high solvent permeance. Thus, the current study opens up a new route for structural interconversion between two crystalline entities with diverse dimensionality employing DCC at the confined interface.
New methodology to predict operational limit of hydrogenated acrylonitrile butadiene rubber packer element for downhole application in energy industry
Authors: Yun Jushik , Zolfaghari Alireza , Singh Viraj
Published: March 2023

Hydrogenated acrylonitrile butadiene rubber (HNBR) has been widely used in many products that serve as sealing components for downhole operations in the energy industry, especially downhole permanent packers. A reliable methodology needs to be developed to predict operational limits for the elastomer during various tool deployments and operations. These operational limits are mostly based on laboratory life prediction tests derived from industry standards meant for material selection or screening. However, the conventional life prediction method cannot capture the effect of size/shape/stress and adequately predict the sealing performance of an actual elastomeric component under downhole operations. To fill this gap, a lifetime prediction methodology for a downhole HNBR packer was developed based on fundamental material behavior such as viscoelasticity, hyperelasticity, chemical/physical degradation from laboratory aging tests, and finite element analysis. Thereafter, the proposed methodology was used to develop an operational limit for the downhole packer in completion brine, calcium bromide. The results showed that the proposed methodology was not limited to the size or shape of the elastomeric product and can be readily extended to develop a successful operational limit for various elastomeric components in the energy industry.
Evaluation of shellac‐polyethylene glycol as an alternative material for fabrication of fused filament fabrication 3D printing filament at low extrusion temperature
Authors: Chansatidkosol Siraprapa , Limmatvapirat Chutima , Sriamornsak Pornsak , Piriyaprasarth Suchada , Patomchaiviwat Vipaluk , Pamonsinlapatham Perayot , Chinatangkul Nawinda , Limmatvapirat Sontaya
Published: March 2023

The lack of biopolymer filament has been recognized as a significant challenge to fused filament fabrication (FFF) or fused deposition modeling (FDM) 3D printing. According to the restricted choice, shellac is a natural polymer of interest due to its thermoplastic property at a low temperature. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the feasibility of applying shellac as a candidate biopolymer for FFF 3D printing filaments. Shellac matrices and plasticized shellac matrices of varying grades of polyethylene glycol (PEG) were prepared using hot melt processes, and their physicochemical properties and filament properties were investigated. The results showed that a shellac matrix could be easily prepared at 80°C and stayed stable for up to 12 h. The addition of PEG could improve the stability of the shellac matrix as demonstrated by a slight deviation in acid value, percent insoluble solid, and FTIR spectra after annealing for 24 h. The shellac filaments with acceptable appearance and mechanical properties were also produced at 80 ± 5°C by the incorporation of 10–20% w/w of PEG 4000 or PEG 10000. Therefore, SHL‐PEG might be a good candidate material for the fabrication of 3D printing filament, especially at low extrusion temperature.
Ti(OBu)4/B(OBu)3: Deciphering the mechanism for the formation of high molecular weight poly(butylene succinate)
Authors: Savitha K. S. , Senthil Kumar M. , Jagadish R. L.
Published: March 2023

We report the use of titanium tetraalkoxide in combination with trialkyl borate as an efficient catalyst system For the synthesis of high molecular weight PBS. It is observed that, the addition of trialkyl borates during polycondensation reaction results in the formation of high molecular weight PBS. This might be due to the activation of free terminal carboxylic acids in PBS oligomer by trialkyl borates via the formation of highly reactive acyloxyboron intermediate. A plausible mechanism for the activation of free terminal carboxylic acids by trialkoxy borates has also been proposed.
Double‐network PVA/gelatin/borax hydrogels with self‐healing, strength, stretchable, stable, and transparent properties
Authors: Yu Huanyang , Zhao Li , Wang Liyan
Published: March 2023

Hydrogels have displayed great potential applications in biological intelligent devices, tissue engineering and electronic wearable fields. As the two most important factors limiting the application of hydrogels, strength and self‐healing ability have always been the focus of research, but the incompatibility between them has not been resolved. It is worth noting that double‐network structure and the introduction of reversible bonds show great promise as a feasible scheme to solve the above problems. Herein, the PVA/G/B double‐network hydrogels were developed by a simple synthesis process and exhibited excellent properties, including strong tensile strength (~787 kPa), high elongation at break (~200%), excellent self‐healing properties (healing efficiency exceeds 93%), good dimensional stability and transparency. This study provides an effective method for designing hydrogels with high strength, stretchability, stability, transparency and excellent self‐healing properties based on the gelatin reinforcing strategy.
Achieving superior fire safety for TPU 3D‐printed workpiece with EP/PBz/PDMS coating
Authors: He Qian , Wu Wei , Hu Huanbo , Rui Zhengguo , Ye Junjian , Wang Yi , Wang Zhengyi
Published: March 2023

To reduce the possibility of the TPU 3D‐printed workpiece causing a fire, a flame‐retardant coating containing phosphorus, nitrogen, silicon, and benzene rings was fabricated on the TPU workpiece surface. When the MSDS content in the coating is 30 phr, the coated TPU composites LOL reached 29.5%, achieved V‐0 rating at the UL‐94 test and its peak heat release rate was reduced by 71.3% in the cone calorimeter test. When the MSDS content was increased to 20 phr, a continuous char layer was observed. Moreover, the EP/PBz/PDMS coating improved the thermal stability and tensile strength of TPU 3D‐printed workpiece. When the coating burns, it forms a dense charcoal layer, which isolates oxygen. The substrate wrapped by the charcoal layer undergoes a carbonization reaction when heated, preventing the substrate from burning further, resulting in improved flame retardancy, smoke suppression and dripping resistance of TPU.
Catalytic role in Biginelli reaction: Synthesis and biological property studies of 2‐oxo/thioxo‐1,2,3,4‐tetrahydropyrimidines
Authors: Kamat Vinuta , Reddy Dinesh S. , Kumar Amit
Published: March 2023

The Biginelli reaction has received significant consideration in recent years due to its easily accessible aldehyde, urea/thiourea, and active methylene compounds. When it comes to pharmacological applications, the Biginelli reaction end‐products, the 2‐oxo‐1,2,3,4‐tetrahydropyrimidines, are vital in pharmacological applications. Due to the ease of carrying out the Biginelli reaction, it offers a number of exciting prospects in various fields. Catalysts, however, play an essential role in Biginelli's reaction. In the absence of a catalyst, it is difficult to form products with a good yield. Many catalysts have been used in search of efficientmethodologies, including biocatalysts, Brønsted/Lewis acids, heterogeneous catalysts, organocatalysts, and so on. Nanocatalysts are currently being applied in the Biginelli reaction to improve the environmental profile as well as speed up the reaction process. This review describes the catalytic role in the Biginelli reaction and pharmacological application of 2‐oxo/thioxo‐1,2,3,4‐tetrahydropyrimidines. This study provides information that will facilitate the development of newer catalytic methods for the Biginelli reaction, by academics as well as industrialists. It also offers a broad scope for drug design strategies, which may enable the development of novel and highly effective bioactive molecules.
Optimal interval controller design for uncertain systems
Authors: Guan Shouping , Li Jiashuo , Dong Panpan
Published: March 2023

The interval controller design is a hot issue for uncertain systems, whereas how to design an optimal interval controller under the premise of ensuring system stability is a difficult problem that needs further study. This paper mainly aims at the single input single output uncertain system to propose an optimal interval controller based on the Kharitonov theorem and an interval optimization algorithm, which can guarantee the stability and optimization of a closed‐loop interval system. According to the Kharitonov theorem, the optimal interval controller design can be transformed into an optimal controller synthesis issue of multiple vertex objects. An interval particle swarm optimization (IPSO) algorithm is then used to optimize the quadratic performance index with interval variables for each vertex object to obtain the solution domains of the controller parameters, and the vertex method is utilized to prevent interval width expansion or divergence in the iteration. Finally, the intersections of the solution domains for all vertex objects are obtained as the optimal interval solution of interval controller parameters. In addition, the stability verification approach of the closed‐loop system and the empirical rule to select the interval particle width are given. Simulation results for typical examples demonstrate that the designed interval controller not only performs optimally but also can robustly stabilize the interval system.
Study on extraction and characterization of new antibiotics violacein from engineered Escherichia coli VioABCDE‐SD
Authors: Huang Chunyan , Chu Xiaoting , Hui Wenyang , Xie Chengjia , Xu Xian
Published: March 2023

To better understand the characteristic properties of violacein biosynthesized by engineered Escherichia coli VioABCDE‐SD, a convenient and simplified method was designed to extract violacein and its stability, antimicrobial activity, and antioxidant capacity were analyzed. Different from the traditional extraction methods, our new method is easier and less time consuming and can directly obtain violacein dry powder product with a higher extraction rate. Low temperature, dark condition, neutral pH, reducing agents, Ba2+, Mn2+, Ni2+, Co2+, and some food additives of sucrose, xylose, and glucose were conducive to maintaining its stability. The violacein also exhibited surprisingly high bacteriostatic action against Gram‐positive Bacillus subtilis, Deinococcus radiodurans R1, and Staphylococcus aureus and Gram‐negative Pseudomonas aeruginosa, but no effect on E. coli. The violacein of VioABCDE‐SD exhibited strong antioxidant activity, with the scavenging rate of 1,1‐diphenyl‐2‐picrylhydrazyl free radicals reaching 60.33%, the scavenging efficiency of hydroxyl radical scavenging reaching 56.34%, and the total antioxidant capacity reaching 0.63 U/mL. Violacein from VioABCDE‐SD can be synthesized directionally with better stability, antibacterial, and antioxidant properties compared with that from the original strain Janthinobacterium sp. B9‐8. Therefore, our study indicated that violacein from engineered E. coli VioABCDE‐SD was a kind of new antibiotic with potential biological activities, which may have potential utility in multiple areas such as pharmacological, cosmetics, and healthy food industries.
Effective‐by‐method for the preparation of folic acid‐coated TiO2 nanoparticles with high targeting potential for apoptosis induction against bladder cancer cells (T24)
Authors: Hanna Demiana H. , Aziz Marina M. , Shafee E. El.
Published: March 2023

The research's goal is to create the surfaces of titanium dioxide nanoparticles (TiO2 NPs) in a layer of folic acid (FA) that can effectively target human bladder cancer cells (T24). An efficient method for creating FA‐coated TiO2 NPs was used, and many tools have been used to analyze its physicochemical properties. The cytotoxic effects of FA‐coated NPs on T24 cells and the mechanisms of apoptosis generation were examined employing a variety of methodologies. The prepared FA‐coated TiO2 NPs suspensions with a hydrodynamic diameter around 37 nm and a negative surface charge of −30 mV reduced T24 cell proliferation with stronger IC50 value (21.8 ± 1.9 μg/ml) than TiO2 NPs (47.8 ± 2.5 μg/ml). This toxicity resulted in apoptosis induction (16.63%) that was caused through enhanced reactive oxygen species formation and stopping the cell cycle over G2/M phase. Moreover, FA–TiO2 NPs raised the expression levels of P53, P21, BCL2L4, and cleaved Caspase‐3, while decreasing Bcl‐2, Cyclin B, and CDK1 in treated cells. Overall, these findings revealed efficient targeting of the FA–TiO2 NPs resulted in increasing cellular internalization caused increased apoptosis in T24 cells. As a result, FA–TiO2 NPs might be a viable treatment for human bladder cancer.
Microwell‐based flow culture increases viability and restores drug response in prostate cancer spheroids
Authors: Payne Marie C. , Ho SumYat , Hashimoto Takao , Imboden Sara , Diaz Johnny A. , Lee Brandon S. , Rupert Melissa J. , Cai Nathan Y. , Goldstein Andrew S. , Lin Neil Y. C.
Published: March 2023

3D cancer spheroids represent a highly promising model for study of cancer progression and therapeutic development. Wide‐scale adoption of cancer spheroids, however, remains a challenge due to the lack of control over hypoxic gradients that may cloud the assessment of cell morphology and drug response. Here, we present a Microwell Flow Device (MFD) that generates in‐well laminar flow around 3D tissues via repetitive tissue sedimentation. Using a prostate cancer cell line, we demonstrate the spheroids in the MFD exhibit improved cell growth, reduced necrotic core formation, enhanced structural integrity, and downregulated expression of cell stress genes. The flow‐cultured spheroids also exhibit an improved sensitivity to chemotherapy with greater transcriptional response. These results demonstrate how fluidic stimuli reveal the cellular phenotype previously masked by severe necrosis. Our platform advances 3D cellular models and enables study into hypoxia modulation, cancer metabolism, and drug screening within pathophysiological conditions.
Office of Civil Rights received record‐breaking number of discrimination complaints
Authors: Sutton Halley
Published: March 2023

The U.S. Department of Education's Office of Civil Rights received a record‐breaking number of discrimination complaints filed between Oct. 1, 2021 and Sept. 30, 2022. During that time period, almost 19,000 discrimination complaints were filed. The previous record for discrimination complaints filed was 16,000 in 2016.
Terpenoids with Cytotoxic Activity from Roots of Ardisia crispa
Authors: Yin Xin , Hu Rui‐Hang , Long Xing‐Xiang , Zhou Yong‐Qiang , Wei Xin , Zhang Shuang , Feng Ting‐Ting , Zhou Ying
Published: March 2023

Three new terpenoids, ardisiacrispins G‐I (1, 4 and 8), and eight known compounds, cyclamiretin A (2), psychotrianoside G (3), 3‐hydroxy‐β‐damascone (5), megastigmane (6), corchoionol C (7), zingiberoside B (9), angelicoidenol (10), trans‐linalool‐3,6‐oxide‐β‐D‐glucopyranoside (11) were isolated from the roots of Ardisia crispa. The chemical structures of all isolated compounds were elucidated by extensive spectroscopic analyses, such as HR‐ESI‐MS, 1D and 2D NMR spectra. Ardisiacrispin G (1) represents the oleanolic‐type scaffold featuring a rare 15,16‐ epoxy system. All compounds were evaluated for the cytotoxicity against two cancer cell lines (U87 MG and HepG2) in vitro. Compounds 1, 8 and 9 exhibited moderate cytotoxic activity with IC50 values ranging from 7.6±1.1 to 28.8±3.2 μM.
Detection and Imaging of Active Substances in Early Atherosclerotic Lesions Using Fluorescent Probes
Authors: Li Jin , Xu Jiheng , Zhang Wei , Li Ping , Zhang Wen , Wang Hui , Tang Bo
Published: March 2023

Atherosclerosis (AS) is a vascular disease caused by chronic inflammation and lipids that is the main cause of myocardial infarction, stroke and other cardiovascular diseases. Atherosclerosis is often difficult to detect in its early stages due to the absence of clinically significant vascular stenosis. This is not conducive to early intervention or treatment of the disease. Over the past decade, researchers have developed various imaging methods for the detection and imaging of atherosclerosis. At the same time, more and more biomarkers are being found that can be used as targets for detecting atherosclerosis. Therefore, the development of a variety of imaging methods and a variety of targeted imaging probes is an important project to achieve early assessment and treatment of atherosclerosis. This paper provides a comprehensive review of the optical probes used to detect and target atherosclerosis imaging in recent years, and describes the current challenges and future development directions.
Effect of potato pulp on the staling and nutritional properties of wheat steamed bread
Authors: Cao Yanfei
Published: March 2023

Background and Objectives

Potato has high nutritional value because of its carbohydrate, protein, dietary fiber, and antioxidant. Wheat flour replaced by potato pulp (PP) can be an effective way to improve nutritive values of steamed bread and promote potato consumption. The objective of the study was to investigate the influences of PP on the staling and nutritional properties of steamed bread.

Findings

After storage for 3 days, the moisture content of the steamed bread that contained more than 20% PP (40.22%–39.70%) was lower than that of control (40.30%). The staling rates of samples ranged from 17% to 31%; among all samples, steamed bread with 40%–50% potato pulp exhibited the lowest staling rates value of 31% (p < .05). The amylopectin retrogradation enthalpy of steamed bread increased with increased PP addition. The total phenolic content (TPC) of samples that contained PP (0.51–0.80 mg GAE/g dry weight [DW]) were higher than that of the control (0.32 mg GAE/g DW). The lysine contents of the steamed bread with PP increased by 8%–36% compared with those of the control. The addition of 10%–30% PP had a complementary effect on the amino acid composition in the steamed bread that contained only wheat flour.

Conclusions

Overall, the incorporation of PP adversely affected the storage of steamed bread but improved its antioxidant capacity and nutritional properties.

Significance and Novelty

The study would contribute to better understanding of the effect of potato pulp on the staling and nutritional properties of wheat steamed bread and provide valuable guidance for in‐depth application of potato pulp in the wheat‐based products.
Structure Based Discovery of Inhibitors of CYP125 and CYP142 from Mycobacterium tuberculosis
Authors: Katariya Mona M. , Snee Matthew , Tunnicliffe Richard B. , Kavanagh Madeline E. , Boshoff Helena I. M. , Amadi Cecilia N. , Levy Colin W. , Munro Andrew W. , Abell Chris , Leys David , Coyne Anthony G. , McLean Kirsty J.
Published: March 2023

Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) was responsible for approximately 1.6 million deaths in 2021. With the emergence of extensive drug resistance, novel therapeutic agents are urgently needed, and continued drug discovery efforts required. Host‐derived lipids such as cholesterol not only support Mtb growth, but are also suspected to function in immunomodulation, with links to persistence and immune evasion. Mtb cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzymes facilitate key steps in lipid catabolism and thus present potential targets for inhibition. Here we present a series of compounds based on an ethyl 5‐(pyridin‐4‐yl)‐1H‐indole‐2‐carboxylate pharmacophore which bind strongly to both Mtb cholesterol oxidases CYP125 and CYP142. Using a structure‐guided approach, combined with biophysical characterization, compounds with micromolar range in‐cell activity against clinically relevant drug‐resistant isolates were obtained. These will incite further development of much‐needed additional treatment options and provide routes to probe the role of CYP125 and CYP142 in Mtb pathogenesis.
Novel Pyrimidine‐Based Iridium Complexes with Bulky Charge‐Carrier Groups as Dopants for Highly Efficient Green Polymer Light‐Emitting Diodes
Authors: Xie Gang , Li Xin , Pan Yang , Huang Shuo , Xu Jiarong , Wang Zhiping , Yin Shungao , Liang Aihui
Published: March 2023

Two new pyrimidine‐based iridium complexes with triphenylamine and tetraphenylsilane, namely (TPAPr)2IrAcac and (TPSPr)2IrAcac, were fully synthesized and characterized. Both of the targeted iridium complexes exhibit excellent thermal stability and high photoluminescence quantum yields. Compared to (TPAPr)2IrAcac, (TPSPr)2IrAcac achieved its highest PLQY and current efficiency (CE) at higher dopant concentration probably because of its bulky tetraphenylsilane group, which can effectively suppress the concentration quenching. However, according to DFT studies, (TPSPr)2IrAcac shows faster non‐radiative transitions due to the presence of more excited‐state distortions than (TPAPr)2IrAcac. As a result, Green phosphorescent polymer light‐emitting diodes (PLEDs) containing (TPAPr)2IrAcac and (TPSPr)2IrAcac as dopants exhibit exceptional device performance with peak CE values of 38.24 and 36.06 cd A−1, respectively. (TPAPr)2IrAcac exhibited a superior efficiency than (TPSPr)2IrAcac because of its high Φp, low RMSD value, and efficient energy transfer from the host to the guest. More importantly, the PLEDs based on (TPAPr)2IrAcac and (TPSPr)2IrAcac show stable phosphorescent emission with Commission Internationale de L'Eclairage (CIE) coordinates of (0.313, 0.497) and (0.299, 0.483), respectively. This work points out a viable method for creating phosphorescent iridium complexes based on pyrimidine for high‐efficiency organic light‐emitting diodes (OLEDs).
Dynamic Approach to Synthetic Lectin for Glucose with Boosted Binding Affinity through C−H Hydrogen Bonds
Authors: Zhai Canjia , Xu Chengkai , Cui Yunpeng , Wojtas Lukasz , Liu Wenqi
Published: March 2023

A biomimetic receptor for glucose has been developed with high affinity and selectivity. The receptor was efficiently synthesized in three steps through dynamic imine chemistry followed by imine‐to‐amide oxidation. The receptor features two parallel durene panels, forming a hydrophobic pocket for [CH⋅⋅⋅π] interactions, and two pyridinium residues directing four amide bonds towards the pocket. These pyridinium residues not only improve solubility but also provide polarized C−H bonds for hydrogen bonding. Experimental data and DFT calculations show that these polarized C−H bonds significantly enhance substrate binding. These findings demonstrate the power of dynamic covalent chemistry for creating molecular receptors and using polarized C−H bonds for boosted carbohydrate recognition in water, providing a foundation for developing glucose‐responsive materials and sensors.
Contingency management, best treatment for stimulants, essential with fentanyl
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: March 2023

Instead of going to various lengths to persuade or cajole or encourage patients addicted to stimulants to stop, the best method is still contingency management (CM), experts agree. In this modality, patients are paid to stop using, but the problem is that the payments are far too low and under federal anti‐kickback rules, the government still refuses to allow them to be higher. Richard A. Rawson, Ph.D., research professor at the Vermont Center on Behavior and Health at the University of Vermont, is the original developer, going back three decades, of this treatment. Now, with so many people thinking they are getting stimulants on the street, but instead consuming illicit fentanyl, Rawson says it's urgent that CM be used.
Exploring a Future with Perennial Rye
Authors: Kish Stacy
Published: March 2023

For thousands of years, farmers have reaped the benefits of perennial crops, from fruit trees to alfalfa to grapes. Today, farmers and researchers are looking for other perennial crops that require less water and nutrient input than annuals and provide a reliable and economically sustainable food source for their farming enterprises. Recent studies have begun to explore the potential of perennial grains to support new agricultural systems that can meet global caloric requirements on the current footprint of cultivated agricultural land. Earn 0.5 CEUs in Crop Management by reading this article and taking the quiz at https://web.sciencesocieties.org/Learning‐Center/Courses.
Not Just Another Methanation Catalyst: Depleted Uranium Meets Nickel for a High‐Performing Process Under Autothermal Regime
Authors: Truong‐Phuoc Lai , Nhut Jean‐Mario , Sall Secou , Tuci Giulia , Rossin Andrea , Papaefthimiou Vasiliki , Duong‐Viet Cuong , Petit Corinne , Arab Mehdi , Jourdan Alex , Vidal Loic , Giambastiani Giuliano , Pham‐Huu Cuong
Published: March 2023

Invited for this month's cover are collaborating teams from academia—the French ICPEES and IS2M of Centre national de la recherche scientifique (CNRS) and the Italian ICCOM of Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR)—and industry with the participation of the ORANO group. The cover picture shows a CO2‐to‐CH4 process promoted by nickel nanoparticles supported on depleted uranium oxide under exceptionally low temperature values or autothermal conditions. The Research Article itself is available at 10.1002/cssc.202201859.
Singed and vinculin play redundant roles in cell migration by regulating F‐actin
Authors: Khaitan Vandita , Shill Kinsuk , Chatterjee Poulami , Mukherjee Sandipan , Majumder Pralay
Published: March 2023

Introduction

Drosophila Singed (mammalian Fascin) is an actin‐binding protein that is known mainly for bundling parallel actin filaments. Among many functions of Singed, it is required for cell motility for both Drosophila and mammalian systems. Increased Fascin‐1 levels positively correlate with greater metastasis and poor prognosis in human cancer. Border cell cluster, forms and migrates during Drosophila egg chamber development, shows higher expression of Singed compared with other follicle cells. Interestingly, loss of singed in border cells does not lead to any effect other than delay.

Result

In this work, we have screened many actin‐binding proteins in search of functional redundancy with Singed for border cell migration. We have found that Vinculin works with Singed to regulate border cell migration, albeit mildly. Although Vinculin is known for anchoring F‐actin to the membrane, knockdown of both singed and vinculin leads to a reduced level of F‐actin and changes in protrusion characteristics in border cells. We have also observed that they may act together to control microvilli length of brush border membrane vesicles and the shape of egg chambers in Drosophila.

Conclusions

We may conclude that singed and vinculin work together to control F‐actin and these interactions are consistent across multiple platforms.
A spatially explicit model for density that accounts for availability: a case study with Mojave desert tortoises
Authors: Zylstra Erin R. , Allison Linda J. , Averill‐Murray Roy C. , Landau Vincent , Pope Nathaniel S. , Steidl Robert J.
Published: March 2023

Estimating population density and identifying those areas where density is changing through time are central to prioritizing conservation and management strategies. Obtaining reliable estimates of density and trends can be challenging, however, especially for long‐lived species that are rare, have broad geographic distributions, and are difficult to detect reliably during field surveys. We developed a hierarchical model for distance‐sampling data that characterizes spatial variation in density at two scales and simultaneously estimates regional trends while accounting for variation in detection probability and availability across surveys. We applied the model to data collected over a 20‐year period (2001–2020) in an area that encompassed most of the geographic range of the Mojave desert tortoise (Gopherus agassizii). Density of adult tortoises varied with multiple biotic and abiotic features, including topography, aspect, geology, and seasonal precipitation and temperature regimes. Across the entire period and study area, the density of adult tortoises decreased by an average of 1.8% per year (95% CI = −3.5% to −0.2%). Trends varied geographically, however, with the steepest declines in the western part of the range (−4.1%, −6.9% to −1.3%). Accounting for habitat loss across our study area, the abundance of this threatened species declined by an estimated 129,000 adults (36%) between 2001 and 2020. Our modeling approach extends traditional distance‐sampling frameworks by accounting for ecological and observational processes that could mask spatiotemporal variation in density and, at the same time, provides spatially explicit estimates to guide conservation and management strategies for tortoises and other rare species.
Time course of inducibility of indirect responses in an ant‐defended plant
Authors: Calixto Eduardo Soares , Del‐Claro Kleber , Lange Denise , Bronstein Judith
Published: March 2023

Plants have evolved inducible defenses that allow them to minimize costs associated with the production of constitutive defenses when herbivores are not present. However, as a consequence, some plants might experience a period of vulnerability between damage and the onset of defense and/or between the cessation of damage and relaxation of defense. Few studies have examined the time course in the inducible protective mutualism between ants and extrafloral nectary (EFN)‐bearing plants. None has compared the inducibility of EFNs on vegetative versus reproductive parts or in response to different levels of herbivore damage. Here, we disentangle the inducibility process by evaluating extrafloral nectar production and ant attendance over time, the time course of inducibility on different plant parts, and the time course of inducibility in response to different levels of foliar damage in a Brazilian tree,Qualea multiflora(Vochysiaceae). Using simulated herbivory on leaves and flowers, we found that (a) the production of extrafloral nectar from foliar and floral EFNs, as well as ant attendance, exhibited a lag between the moment of damage and the peak of response, followed by a response peak (usually 24 h after damage) at which the defense remains at its maximum level, then declines to prestimulus levels; (b) the time course of inducibility and the peak activity did not differ between EFNs located in vegetative versus reproductive parts, except for sugar concentration, which was higher in EFNs on vegetative parts; and (c) the time course of inducibility of foliar EFNs depended on damage level. Although considered a cost‐saving strategy, inducible defenses can be disadvantageous since they can leave plants vulnerable to attack for extended periods. Our results illuminate the dynamics of the induced response and the underlying mechanisms that might mediate it, ultimately providing new insights into defense strategies employed by plants.
Integrated care for older multimorbid heart failure patients: protocol for the ESCAPE randomized trial and cohort study
Authors: Zelenak Christine , Nagel Jonas , Bersch Kristina , Derendorf Lisa , Doyle Frank , Friede Tim , Herbeck Belnap Birgit , Kohlmann Sebastian , Skou Søren T. , Velasco Carlos A. , Albus Christian , Asendorf Thomas , Bang Christian Axel , Beresnevaite Margarita , Bruun Niels Eske , Burg Matthew M. , Buhl Sussi Friis , Gæde Peter H. , Lühmann Dagmar , Markser Anna , Nagy Klaudia Vivien , Rafanelli Chiara , Rasmussen Sanne , Søndergaard Jens , Sørensen Jan , Stauder Adrienne , Stock Stephanie , Urbinati Stefano , Riva Diego Della , Wachter Rolf , Walker Florian , Pedersen Susanne S. , Herrmann‐Lingen Christoph ,   the ESCAPE consortium
Published: March 2023

ESCAPE

Evaluation of a patient‐centred biopsychosocial blended collaborative care pathway for the treatment of multimorbid elderly patients.

Therapeutic Area

Healthcare interventions for the management of older patients with multiple morbidities.

Aims

Multi‐morbidity treatment is an increasing challenge for healthcare systems in ageing societies. This comprehensive cohort study with embedded randomized controlled trial tests an integrated biopsychosocial care model for multimorbid elderly patients.

Hypothesis

A holistic, patient‐centred pro‐active 9‐month intervention based on the blended collaborative care (BCC) approach and enhanced by information and communication technologies can improve health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) and disease outcomes as compared with usual care at 9 months.

Methods

Across six European countries, ESCAPE is recruiting patients with heart failure, mental distress/disorder plus ≥2 medical co‐morbidities into an observational cohort study. Within the cohort study, 300 patients will be included in a randomized controlled assessor‐blinded two‐arm parallel group interventional clinical trial (RCT). In the intervention, trained care managers (CMs) regularly support patients and informal carers in managing their multiple health problems. Supervised by a clinical specialist team, CMs remotely support patients in implementing the treatment plan—customized to the patients' individual needs and preferences—into their daily lives and liaise with patients' healthcare providers. An eHealth platform with an integrated patient registry guides the intervention and helps to empower patients and informal carers.

HRQoL measured with the EQ‐5D‐5L as primary endpoint, and secondary outcomes, that is, medical and patient‐reported outcomes, healthcare costs, cost‐effectiveness, and informal carer burden, will be assessed at 9 and ≥18 months.

Conclusions

If proven effective, the ESCAPE BCC intervention can be implemented in routine care for older patients with multiple morbidities across the participating countries and beyond.
Autonomic and respiratory consequences of altered chemoreflex function: clinical and therapeutic implications in cardiovascular diseases
Authors: Giannoni Alberto , Borrelli Chiara , Gentile Francesco , Sciarrone Paolo , Spießhöfer Jens , Piepoli Massimo , Richerson George B. , Floras John S. , Coats Andrew J.S. , Javaheri Shahrokh , Emdin Michele , Passino Claudio
Published: March 2023

The importance of chemoreflex function for cardiovascular health is increasingly recognized in clinical practice. The physiological function of the chemoreflex is to constantly adjust ventilation and circulatory control to match respiratory gases to metabolism. This is achieved in a highly integrated fashion with the baroreflex and the ergoreflex. The functionality of chemoreceptors is altered in cardiovascular diseases, causing unstable ventilation and apnoeas and promoting sympathovagal imbalance, and it is associated with arrhythmias and fatal cardiorespiratory events. In the last few years, opportunities to desensitize hyperactive chemoreceptors have emerged as potential options for treatment of hypertension and heart failure. This review summarizes up to date evidence of chemoreflex physiology/pathophysiology, highlighting the clinical significance of chemoreflex dysfunction, and lists the latest proof of concept studies based on modulation of the chemoreflex as a novel target in cardiovascular diseases.
Sintered Porous Tellurium Pellet Lithium Battery Electrodes
Authors: Wang Jing , Nie Ziyang , Koenig Gary M.
Published: March 2023

Thick sintered porous tellurium pellets are fabricated and evaluated as cathodes in lithium–tellurium batteries. These electrodes lack inactive binders and conductive additives and have very high areal capacity, which are important attributes for increasing cell energy density. More commonly tellurium in lithium–tellurium batteries is processed via melt impregnation into a conductive host. In contrast, herein, porous sintered electrodes comprising only tellurium material dramatically increase the areal active material loading to 150 mg cm−2 compared to the typically reported <5 mg cm−2. A processing route is used on the tellurium powder to reduce the particle size and increase the electroactive area by a factor of 13. With the increased surface area, gravimetric capacity increased for the same current density and retention of capacity at increasing rates has even greater improvement. Thick all active material–sintered tellurium electrodes provide a route toward high volumetric energy density batteries, where the relatively high electronic conductivity of tellurium is expected to be beneficial due to the lack of conductive additives in the electrode system.
Precision medicine: Vinpocetine as a potential treatment for GABRG2‐related epilepsy
Authors: Mandelenaki Despoina , Juvené Elodie , Lederer Damien , Aeby Alec
Published: March 2023

Introduction

Pathogenic variants of the GABRG2 gene, encoding a GABAA receptor subunit, have been associated with various epileptic syndromes and drug‐resistant epilepsy. Vinpocetine has been previously reported efficacious in a patient harboring a GABRB3 pathogenic variant, encoding another GABAA receptor subunit.

Case presentation

We describe a patient with GABRG2‐related drug‐resistant epilepsy who improved after vinpocetine treatment. An 8‐year‐old boy with a family history of epilepsy was diagnosed with early onset absence epilepsy at 6 months of age and was treated unsuccessfully with sodium valproate and ethosuximide. At 6 years of age, he developed generalized tonic–clonic seizures and increasing absences despite lamotrigine add‐on as well as learning difficulties. Brain MRI was normal and video‐EEG telemetry showed multiple myoclonic absences. An epilepsy gene panel analysis showed a GABRG2 pathogenic variant, c.254 T > A p.(Ile85Lys) (NM_198903.2), inherited from the proband's father. Seizures were resistant to several medications. After treatment with vinpocetine add‐on, the patient showed a dramatic initial response, further reduction of seizures, and improvement of his cognitive functions.

Conclusion

This case illustrates that vinpocetine could be considered in drug‐resistant epilepsies related to GABRG2 in accordance with the principles of precision medicine.
Combination of physics‐based and data‐driven modeling for nonlinear structural seismic response prediction through deep residual learning
Authors: Guo Jia , Enokida Ryuta , Li Dawei , Ikago Kohju
Published: March 2023

Despite great progress in seeking accurate numerical approximator to nonlinear structural seismic response prediction using deep learning approaches, tedious training process and large volume of structural response data under earthquakes for training and validation are often prohibitively accessible. In our methodology, the main innovation can be seen in the incorporation of deep neural networks (DNNs) into a classical numerical integration method by using a hybridized integration time‐stepper. In this way, the linear physics information of the structure and the obscure nonlinear dynamics are smoothly combined. We propose to use residual network (ResNet) to learn time‐stepping schemes specifically for the nonlinear state variables of the system. Our Physics‐DNN hybridized integration (PDHI) time‐stepping scheme provides important advantages over current pure data‐driven approaches, including (i) a flexible framework incorporating known time‐invariant physics information, (ii) requirement of structural seismic response data being circumvented by simple short bursts of trajectories collected from underlying nonlinear components, and (iii) efficiency in training and validation process. Besides, our results indicate that a simple feedforward or convolutional architecture outperforms recurrent networks to fulfill the requirement of prediction accuracy as well as long‐range memory in structural dynamic analysis. Several numerical and experimental examples are presented to demonstrate the performance of the method.
Rigid polyurethane foam compounds with excellent fire performance modified by a piperazine pyrophosphate/expandable graphite synergistic system
Authors: Liu Mengru , Shen Haifeng , Luo Yuzhou , Zhang Renhui , Tao Yi , Liu Xiuyu , Zong Zhifang , Tang Gang
Published: March 2023

Rigid polyurethane foam (RPUF) has many excellent properties, but its flammability has been a challenge for the application of RPUF compounds. In this research, piperazine pyrophosphate (PAPP) and expandable graphite (EG) were added to the RPUF matrix to improve the fire performance of RPUF. Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) revealed that PAPP and EG contributed to the early decomposition of the FR‐RPUF matrix, and the char residue of RPUF‐3 reached 37.1 wt% when the PAPP: EG ratio was 1:1. The flame‐retardant test indicated that the FR‐RPUF composites reached the V‐0 level, and the limiting oxygen index (LOI) value of RPUF‐4 was 28.8%. In addition, cone calorimeter tests showed that the addition of flame retardants reduced the peak heat release rate (PHRR) and total heat release (THR), further improving the fire performance of the compounds. The analysis of the char residue confirmed the formation of a denser char residue and significant improvement in the graphitization degree due to the PAPP/EG synergistic effect, indicating that the char residue could effectively isolate oxygen and heat and act as a flame retardant in the condensed phase.
Combining Statewide Surveys and Classification to Support Management of Streams
Authors: Zorn Troy , Wills Todd , Hessenauer Jan-Michael , Lenz Joel , Bissell Ed , DePottey Ashley , Kilijanczyk Danielle Forsyth , Francis Anila
Published: March 2023

Data from agency-based inventory programs could be very useful for local fishery management if appropriately summarized and served, but data are often accessible to few. Fundamental management questions at regional and local scales center around resource status and trends, highlighting the need for decision support tools operating at multiple scales. As stream classifications are developed for regions, survey programs become standardized, and innovations for serving spatially and temporally extensive data publicly become common, opportunities arise for developing locally relevant management decision support tools. We describe simple public-facing tools that use information from a statewide stream inventory program to increase understanding of local and regional trends in important fish populations, describe benchmark conditions for all stream types at various spatial scales, and provide empirical support for local and broader scale management of stream fishes and habitat. We provide examples demonstrating their utility to encourage development of similar tools elsewhere.
Optimal futures hedging by using realized semicovariances: The information contained in signed high‐frequency returns
Authors: Lai Yu‐Sheng
Published: March 2023

This paper proposes a realized semicovariance‐based generalized autoregressive conditional heteroskedasticity (GARCH) model for optimal futures hedging in which realized semicovariances are computed from signed high‐frequency returns. The model enables flexible, continuous leverage for equity indices and exhibits stronger responses to jointly negative return shocks than do traditional threshold‐based asymmetric GARCH models. Our results indicate that the proposed model outperforms simpler models in model fit, covariance prediction, and portfolio variance reduction and can help achieve pronounced economic gains for hedgers. The findings demonstrate that signed high‐frequency returns contain valuable information for explaining covariance asymmetries and provide managerial implications for market participants to improve risk management.