bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Design, Synthesis, Molecular Modelling and in Vitro Evaluation of Indolyl Ketohydrazide‐Hydrazone Analogs as Potential Pancreatic Lipase Inhibitors
Authors: Jagetiya Sakshi , Auti Prashant S. , Paul Atish T.
Published: August 2023

Inhibition of Pancreatic lipase (PL) is considered to be a promising target for the management of obesity, owing to its crucial role in the digestion of dietary triglycerides. A series of 31 indolyl ketohydrazide‐hydrazone analogs (5 aa–cm) were designed, synthesized and evaluated for their PL inhibitory potential. The analogs were designed using molecular modelling studies. The designed analogs were then synthesized by condensation of indolyl oxoacetohydrazide with various substituted benzaldehydes. All the synthesized analogs showed PL inhibitory activity in the range of 4.13–48.35 μM, as compared with orlistat (0.86±0.09 μM). The most potent analog 5 bi (IC50=4.13±0.95 μM) was found to show a competitive type of inhibition with Ki value of 0.725 μM. Additionally, the molecular docking study proved the binding of analog 5 bi at the active site of PL (PDB ID: 1LPB) with MolDock score of −141.279 kcal/mol. It also exhibited various interactions with the key amino acids namely Phe77, Phe215, Tyr114, Ser152, Arg256, His263, etc. Furthermore, the protein‐ligand complex of analog 5 bi was found to be stable in molecular dynamics simulation for 100 ns with RMSD of less than 3.2 and 4 Å for the protein and ligand, respectively. The current work hereby provides a basis for the potential role of indolyl ketohydrazide‐hydrazone analogs in PL inhibition and further optimization could result in the generation of new leads as anti‐obesity agents.
Newborn with amniotic band sequence
Authors: Ruiz Jesus
Published: August 2023

Key Clinical Message

Amniotic band sequence (ABS) should be on the differential for newborns with limb defects. ABS is diagnosable prenatally with prenatal ultrasound; however, there are cases where the diagnosis of ABS is made only after delivery of the newborn.

Amniotic band sequence (ABS) is an uncommon congenital disorder where strands of amniotic tissue cause entrapment of the limbs, body wall, and viscera leading to an array of congenital malformations. We report a case of a newborn with prenatally undiagnosed amniotic band sequence.
Compensatory gait mechanics in person with multiple toe amputation: A single case report
Authors: Iijima Hirotaka , Eguchi Ryo , Aya Yamamoto‐Kon , Terabe Yuta , Takahashi Masaki
Published: August 2023

Key Clinical Message

This case highlights the biomechanical influence of toe amputation on contralateral limb force elevation, possibly through reduced ipsilateral plantar flexor torque production. These findings provide insight into toe amputation‐related compensatory gait mechanics with greater inter‐limb asymmetry, which may increase the risk of musculoskeletal comorbidities, including osteoarthritis in contralateral limb.
Invasive breast carcinoma of no special type with medullary pattern: A case report at a tertiary facility in Tanzania
Authors: Mremi Alex , Gnanamuttupulle Marianne , Ntundu Shilanaiman Hilary , Henke Oliver , Chilonga Kondo , Msuya David
Published: August 2023

Key Clinical Message

Describes a rare form of invasive breast cancer of no special type.

Not a distinct morphological subtype.

Characterized by dense lymphoid infiltrate, syncytial growth, pushing borders, and cells with high‐grade nuclei.

Clinically aggressive but carries a better prognosis than other more frequent invasive breast carcinomas.

Invasive breast carcinoma of no special type with medullary pattern (BCNST‐MP) is a rare form of breast tumor, accounting for less than 5% of all invasive breast carcinomas. Its diagnosis is based on histologic criteria. Historically, this tumor was known as medullary carcinoma. Poor morphological reproducibility led to re‐classification. Despite having an aggressive biological behavior, these tumors usually carry a better prognosis compared with other more frequent forms of invasive breast carcinomas. Herein, we present a case of BCNST‐MP in a 58‐year‐old African female, successfully treated in our institution through chemo‐radiation, hormonal therapy and surgery.
Radiation‐Induced Admicellar Graft Polymerization of 2‐Hydroxyethyl Methacrylate onto Polyvinylidene Fluoride Membranes Using an Electron Beam Accelerator
Authors: Azzian Muhammad Irfan Mustaqim , Mohamad Siti Fatahiyah , Abd Rahim Nik Muhamad Faris Hakimi , Abdul Manaf Mohamad Amirul Aizat , Ramesh Devi Durgaashini A/P , Asogan Thirunaukkarasu A/L , Ismail Nor Hafiza , Wan Salleh Wan Norharyati
Published: August 2023

The efficiency of admicellar graft polymerization in functionalizing polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) membranes was explored. The effect of 2‐hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA) concentration and the absorbed dose was investigated using a simultaneous method of radiation‐induced graft polymerization. The degree of grafting increased with raising the absorbed dose and HEMA concentration. The Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) peak for C–O stretch and the asymmetric and symmetric stretching of the C–O–C bridge, respectively, proved the presence of poly(2‐hydroxyethyl methacrylate) (PHEMA) on the modified PVDF. As the grafting yield increased, rougher surfaces were observed. According to contact angle analysis, the grafted membrane with a higher grafting yield outperformed the low grafting yield membrane in terms of water flux and hydrophilicity.
Nickel‐Catalyzed Regioselective Hydrosilylation of Conjugated Dienes†
Authors: Wu Xiaoyu , Liu Wei , Yang Liqun , Wang Yue , Liu Tianwen , Yuan Yao , Lu Yan , Zhang Zhaoguo
Published: August 2023

Comprehensive Summary

With the increasing demand for homoallylic silanes and allylic silanes, the highly efficient and regioselective hydrosilylations of conjugated dienes are urgently needed. Herein, we developed a Ni‐catalyzed regiodivergent hydrosilylation of aromatic conjugated dienes by adjusting the temperature and ligands. Under low temperature (–30 °C), an eternal‐ligand‐free system (Ni/t‐BuOK) can efficiently facilitate the 3,4‐anti‐Markovnikov hydrosilylation to provide homoallylic silanes via electrophilic activation process; under room temperature (25 °C), a ligand‐controlled system (Ni/t‐BuOK/PPh3) can eventuate the 3,4‐Markovnikov hydrosilylation to produce allylic silanes via Chalk‐Harrod process. Both systems are compatible with various conjugated dienes and primary silanes in excellent yields and regioselectivities.
A novel approach for large‐scale environmental data partitioning on cloud and on‐premises storage for compute continuum applications
Authors: Mellone Gennaro , De Vita Ciro Giuseppe , Sánchez‐Gallegos Dante D. , Sánchez‐Gallegos Genaro , Torres‐Charles Catherine A. , Garcia‐Blas Javier , Carretero Pérez Jesús , Gonzalez‐Compean J. L. , Laccetti Giuliano
Published: August 2023

Cloud‐based services have proved useful in several research fields, such as engineering, health science, and astrophysics, to mention a few examples. The computational environmental science community developed a strong need for cloud facilities to store, process, and manage data from observations and numerical models for simulations and forecasts. Weather forecast models and global sensor networks deal with multidimensional geo‐referenced data∖sets. However, environmental data consumer applications usually require a relatively small amount of multidimensional input data slice to analyze a specific area or time interval. Hence, reducing data dimension for information retrieval is mandatory. This paper presents a twofold solution: a technique to load and retrieve the sliced multidimensional data set on different cloud services such as Amazon Web Service (AWS), Google Cloud Platform, and Microsoft Azure. The experimental results performed on these cloud services highlight that the proposed method can significantly speed up the process of loading and retrieving the data slices compared to working with the entire data set in bulk or OPeNDAP server.
Intermolecular n→π* Interactions in Supramolecular Chemistry and Catalysis
Authors: Wang Xu‐Dong , Zhu Jun , Wang De‐Xian
Published: August 2023

The n→π* interactions describing attractive force between lone pairs (lps) of nucleophile and carbonyl or polarized unsaturated bonds have recently attracted growing attentions in various disciplines. So far, such non‐covalent driving force are mainly concentrated to intramolecular systems. Intermolecular n→π* interactions in principle could produce fascinated supramolecular systems or facilitate organic reactions, however, they remain largely underexplored due to the very weak energy of individual interaction. This review attempts to give an overview of the challenging intermolecular n→π* interactions, much efforts emphasize the supramolecular systems, catalytic processes and spectroscopic measurements.
A Protocol for Culture and Characterization of Human Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells After Induction
Authors: Cheng Yu‐Shan , Xu Miao , Chen Guibin , Beers Jeanette , Chen Catherine Z. , Liu Chengyu , Zou Jizhong , Zheng Wei
Published: August 2023

Human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) are characterized by unlimited self‐renewal and the capability to differentiate into all three germ layers, with the potential to further differentiate into all types of cells and tissues. Human iPSCs retain all genetic information from their original donors and can be developed into disease models to study disease pathophysiology, identify disease phenotypes and biomarkers, and evaluate therapeutic efficacy and toxicity for drug development. Human iPSCs can also be used to develop cell therapies and regenerative medicine. In the last decade, the technologies for hiPSC generation and differentiation have advanced rapidly. Human iPSC culture and propagation are tedious and require careful handling. High‐quality hiPSCs are necessary for downstream applications. The methods, techniques, and skills for hiPSC maintenance and characterization are very different from those for immortalized cell lines. It can be a challenge for new laboratory staff, and sometimes even for experienced staff, to properly culture and maintain the high quality of these cells. Here, we describe a comprehensive set of protocols for hiPSC propagation under chemically defined and feeder‐free culture conditions. These step‐by‐step protocols describe in detail all the reagents and experimental procedures needed to culture hiPSCs. The protocols also describe experimental methods for hiPSC characterization, including immunofluorescence staining and flow cytometric analysis with a panel of pluripotency markers, a teratoma formation assay for validation of in vivo pluripotency, and detection of Sendai virus to ensure elimination of the viral vectors. These protocols have been successfully used in our laboratory for hiPSC expansion and propagation, and this article provide a useful reference guide for laboratory staff to work on hiPSC culture. Published 2023. This article is a U.S. Government work and is in the public domain in the USA. Current Protocols published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol 1: Propagation and cryopreservation of hiPSC cultures

Basic Protocol 2: Recovery of cryopreserved hiPSCs

Basic Protocol 3: Validation of pluripotency markers via immunocytochemical analysis

Alternate Protocol: Determination of the expression of pluripotency markers via flow cytometry analysis

Basic Protocol 4: Assessment of pluripotency via in vivo teratoma formation assay

Basic Protocol 5: Confirmation of Sendai viral vector clearance via RT‐PCR
Immunoaffinity Chromatography for Protein Purification and Analysis
Authors: Sharmeen Sadia , Suh Kyungah , Kyei Isaac , Jones Jacob , Olupathage Harshana , Campbell Avery , Hage David S.
Published: August 2023

Immunoaffinity chromatography (IAC) is a type of liquid chromatography that uses immobilized antibodies or related binding agents as selective stationary phases for sample separation or analysis. The strong binding and high selectivity of antibodies have made IAC a popular tool for the purification and analysis of many chemicals and biochemicals, including proteins. The basic principles of IAC are described as related to the use of this method for protein purification and analysis. The main factors to consider in this technique are also presented under a discussion of the general strategy to follow during the development of a new IAC method. Protocols, as illustrated using human serum albumin (HSA) as a model protein, are provided for the use of IAC in several formats. This includes both the use of IAC with traditional low‐performance supports such as agarose for off‐line immunoextraction and supports used in high‐performance IAC for on‐line immunoextraction. The use of IAC for protein analysis as a flow‐based or chromatographic immunoassay is also discussed and described using HSA and a competitive binding assay format as an example. © 2023 Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol 1: Off‐line immunoextraction by traditional immunoaffinity chromatography

Basic Protocol 2: On‐line immunoextraction by high‐performance immunoaffinity chromatography

Basic Protocol 3: Competitive binding chromatographic immunoassay
The impact of different polishing systems on yttria‐stabilized tetragonal zirconia polycrystalline crowns in relation to heat generation
Authors: Liu Xiaoyun , Aarts John M. , Ma Sunyoung , Choi Joanne Jung Eun
Published: August 2023

Objectives

To investigate the heat generation on yttria‐stabilized tetragonal zirconia polycrystalline (Y‐TZP) crowns during polishing with coarse and fine polishing systems at various speeds.

Materials and Methods

Two polishers (coarse and fine) at three polishing speeds were investigated. Two simulation models of the first mandibular molars were prepared for full coverage Y‐TZP restorations with different reduction dimensions. Preheated water was pumped into the abutment chamber, to simulate the intrapulpal temperature and blood flow. Twelve Y‐TZP crowns (3M™ Lava™ Esthetic) were milled for each prepared tooth abutment and each cusp (n = 10) was individually ground for 30 s and polished for 2 min. Thermocouple wire was secured to the intaglio surface of the crown and linked to a data logger for recording temperature changes. Selected scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images of the treated surfaces and polishers were analyzed. The data was statistically analyzed using Prism 9.

Results

The highest temperature rise was observed in the 20,000 RPM polishing speed groups for both coarse and fine polishing, and higher than the threshold value of 5.5°C for pulp damage. The Kruskal–Wallis test, revealed statistically significant differences (p < .0001) in heat generation between low (10,000 RPM) and high (20,000 RPM) polishing speeds.

Conclusions

High‐speed polishing at 20,000 RPM generated the most heat over the threshold of 5.5°C, which would threaten the dental pulp. The results suggest that a cautionary approach should be taken to high‐speed intraoral polishing.

Clinical Relevance

Dental clinicians should be aware of the choice of polishing systems and speeds to avoid pulp damage from intraoral polishing of Y‐TZP restorations.
Single and multi‐trait genome‐wide association studies identify genomic regions associated with phenological traits in cowpea
Authors: Andrade Mario Henrique Murad Leite , Ferreira Rebecca Caroline Ulbricht , Filho Claudio Carlos Fernandes , Sipowicz Pablo , Rios Esteban Fernando
Published: August 2023

Understanding the genetic control of traits linked to phenology is essential to address strategies and efforts in the development of resilient cultivars capable of adapting to climate change. In this study, we performed genome‐wide association studies on a cowpea [Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp] mini‐core collection to dissect the genetic architecture and identify genomic regions associated with days to flowering, days from flowering to pod maturity, and days to pod maturity. Phenotypic data were collected in 2 years and used to test associations with 41,533 single‐nucleotide polymorphism markers by single and multi‐trait analysis. In addition, we searched for candidate genes putatively involved in phenological traits within genome‐associated regions. The single‐trait approach identified 28 significant marker‐trait associations for the three traits, while the multi‐trait identified 18 significant associations, both evidencing pleiotropic associations. Five of these markers were associated with phenological traits reported in previous studies. Candidate genes were identified, including genes involved in phosphorylation and encoding the maternal effect embryo arrest 60, known to be associated with pod maturity and flowering, respectively. Functional validation of these genes will further improve our understanding of the variation of phenological traits in cowpea and other related crops.
Application of The Paris System in neobladder washing cytology: Comparison between the original diagnosis and correlation with histopathology
Authors: Kim Ji Min , Lee Junghye , Sung Sun Hee
Published: August 2023

Background

In urinary diversion after radical cystectomy, the incidence of recurrent urothelial carcinoma (UC) in upper urinary tract or urethra are reported in 2%–17% of the patients. Urine cytology plays a pivotal role in detecting the recurrence of UC. However, cytologic diagnosis in urinary diversion including neobladder is often challenging due to significant degenerative changes and necro‐inflammatory background. Since the proposal of The Paris System (TPS) for reporting cytology, the utility of TPS in urinary diversion specimen has not been studied yet. The objective of this study is to evaluate the diagnostic usefulness of TPS compared with the original diagnosis and correlate with the matched histopathological results.

Methods

Urinary diversion cytology specimens with concurrent or subsequent biopsy or resection at EUMC in recent 16 years (from January 2002 to December 2018) are retrospectively reviewed and reclassified according to TPS criteria. The TPS categories and the original diagnoses were compared and correlated with follow‐up histology.

Results

Concurrent or subsequent biopsy or resection within a 6‐month period was available in 45 cases from 28 patients. When applying TPS, the rate of atypical and suspicious categories decreased by 13.4% and 11.1%. Using TPS increased the value of sensitivity, NPV, and accuracy to 93.75%, 93.75%, and 90.91%, respectively.

Conclusion

Application of TPS reduced the rate of indeterminate diagnoses and moreover, improved the sensitivity and accuracy of urinary diversion cytology. Therefore, we believe that diversion urine cytology diagnosis according to TPS is useful to screen patients for detection of recurrence in routine clinical practice.
Primary psychiatric disorders
Authors: Datta Debatri , Das Anupam , Jafferany Mohammad , Hafi Bishurul , Carniciu Simona , Stamu‐O'Brien Caroline
Published: August 2023

Objective

This article explores disorders of trichotillomania, delusions of parasitosis, dysmorphophobia or body dysmorphic disorder, bulimia nervosa and anorexia nervosa, obsessive compulsive disorder, dermatitis artefacta, and specific phobia.

Method

Research data of case series and observational studies review their clinical manifestation as primary psychiatric disorders as well as treatment modalities in these disorders.

Results

We also indicate that these diseases may be harbingers of medical diseases or coexist with various medical conditions.

Conclusions

It also emphasizes the importance of a multidisciplinary approach for both proper treatment and outcome.
Long‐term soybean–maize rotation experiments in cereal‐based farming systems at Bako, Western Ethiopia
Authors: Dabessa Alemayehu , Debala Chala
Published: August 2023

Maize monoculture is one of the major restrictions limiting maize productivity in Western Ethiopia. Although the inclusion of legumes in cropping systems is an essential approach for the sustainable management of farming systems and for reducing the nitrogen (N) fertilizer requirement for maize production in the long term, the effects of soybean on the sustainability of maize productivity and soil fertility are unclear in Ethiopia. Continuous cropping of maize has led to extensive degradation of soil and a decrease in crop productivity in Western Ethiopia. Thus, the study was conducted to compare the long‐term impact of soybean on the sustainability of the production system in soybean–maize rotation and to monitor soil fertility dynamics in soybean–maize rotational systems. Nine different soybean–maize rotation treatments were laid out in Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replications. The study results showed that soybean–maize rotation gave a relatively steady yield compared to the maize mono‐cropping system. Soybean–maize rotation improves the productivity of component crops in cropping systems. The highest maize grain yield was recorded from soybean–maize rotation with fertilizer application for the two components (RS + M+) and soybean–maize rotation without fertilizer application for the soybean component (RS‐M+), respectively. Soybean grain yield was significantly correlated with OC (%), OM (%), and TN (%), whereas maize yield was adversely correlated with soil parameters, except soil pH. Overall, the knowledge we can contribute to the readers from this study is that soybean–maize rotation plays an important role in achieving sustainable agriculture by increasing soil fertility and achieving stable soybean and maize yields and soybean should be inoculated with Rhizobium strain year after year continuously. Thus, it can be concluded that soybean–maize rotation with fertilizer applications (RS + M+) for two components can be used in maize belt areas of Western Ethiopia.
Pathological Bergmann glia alterations and disrupted calcium dynamics in ataxic Canavan disease mice
Authors: Hull Vanessa L. , Wang Yan , Burns Travis , Sternbach Sarah , Gong Shuaishuai , McDonough Jennifer , Guo Fuzheng , Borodinsky Laura N. , Pleasure David
Published: August 2023

Canavan disease (CD) is a recessively inherited pediatric leukodystrophy resulting from inactivating mutations to the oligodendroglial enzyme aspartoacylase (ASPA). ASPA is responsible for hydrolyzing the amino acid derivative N‐acetyl‐L‐aspartate (NAA), and without it, brain NAA concentrations increase by 50% or more. Infants and children with CD present with progressive cognitive and motor delays, cytotoxic edema, astroglial vacuolation, and prominent spongiform brain degeneration. ASPA‐deficient CD mice (Aspanur7/nur7) present similarly with elevated NAA, widespread astroglial dysfunction, ataxia, and Purkinje cell (PC) dendritic atrophy. Bergmann glia (BG), radial astrocytes essential for cerebellar development, are intimately intertwined with PCs, where they regulate synapse stability, functionality, and plasticity. BG damage is common to many neurodegenerative conditions and frequently associated with PC dysfunction and ataxia. Here, we report that, in CD mice, BG exhibit significant morphological alterations, decreased structural associations with PCs, loss of synaptic support proteins, and altered calcium dynamics. We also find that BG dysfunction predates cerebellar vacuolation and PC damage in CD mice. Previously, we developed an antisense oligonucleotide (ASO) therapy targeting Nat8l (N‐acetyltransferase‐8‐like, “Nat8l ASO”) that inhibits the production of NAA and reverses ataxia and PC atrophy in CD mice. Here, we show that Nat8l ASO administration in adult CD mice also leads to BG repair. Furthermore, blocking astroglial uptake of NAA is neuroprotective in astroglia‐neuron cocultures exposed to elevated NAA. Our findings suggest that restoration of BG structural and functional integrity could be a mechanism for PC regeneration and improved motor function.
Spatial distribution of hand‐grasp motor task activity in spinal cord functional magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Hemmerling Kimberly J. , Hoggarth Mark A. , Sandhu Milap S. , Parrish Todd B. , Bright Molly G.
Published: August 2023

Upper extremity motor paradigms during spinal cord functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) can provide insight into the functional organization of the cord. Hand‐grasping is an important daily function with clinical significance, but previous studies of similar squeezing movements have not reported consistent areas of activity and are limited by sample size and simplistic analysis methods. Here, we study spinal cord fMRI activation using a unimanual isometric hand‐grasping task that is calibrated to participant maximum voluntary contraction (MVC). Two task modeling methods were considered: (1) a task regressor derived from an idealized block design (Ideal) and (2) a task regressor based on the recorded force trace normalized to individual MVC (%MVC). Across these two methods, group motor activity was highly lateralized to the hemicord ipsilateral to the side of the task. Activation spanned C5–C8 and was primarily localized to the C7 spinal cord segment. Specific differences in spatial distribution are also observed, such as an increase in C8 and dorsal cord activity when using the %MVC regressor. Furthermore, we explored the impact of data quantity and spatial smoothing on sensitivity to hand‐grasp motor task activation. This analysis shows a large increase in number of active voxels associated with the number of fMRI runs, sample size, and spatial smoothing, demonstrating the impact of experimental design choices on motor activation.
Adolescents with ADHD and co‐occurring motor difficulties show a distinct pattern of maturation within the corticospinal tract from those without: A longitudinal fixel‐based study
Authors: Hyde Christian , Fuelscher Ian , Efron Daryl , Anderson Vicki A. , Silk Tim J.
Published: August 2023

It is well documented that attention‐deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) often presents with co‐occurring motor difficulties. However, little is known about the biological mechanisms that explain compromised motor skills in approximately half of those with ADHD. To provide insight into the neurobiological basis of poor motor outcomes in ADHD, this study profiled the development of white matter organization within the cortico‐spinal tract (CST) in adolescents with ADHD with and without co‐occurring motor problems, as well as non‐ADHD control children with and without motor problems. Participants were 60 children aged 9–14 years, 27 with a history of ADHD and 33 controls. All underwent high‐angular resolution diffusion MRI data at up to three time points (115 in scans total). We screened for motor impairment in all participants at the third time point (≈14 years) using the Developmental Coordination Disorder Questionnaire (DCD‐Q). Following pre‐processing of diffusion MRI scans, fixel‐based analysis was performed, and the bilateral CST was delineated using TractSeg. Mean fiber density (FD) and fiber cross‐section (FC) were extracted for each tract at each time‐point. To investigate longitudinal trajectories of fiber development, linear mixed models were performed separately for the left and right CST, controlling for nuisance variables. To examine possible variations in fiber development between groups, we tested whether the inclusion of group and the interaction between age and group improved model fit. At ≈10 years, those with ADHD presented with lower FD within the bilateral CST relative to controls, irrespective of their prospective motor status. While these microstructural abnormalities persisted into adolescence for individuals with ADHD and co‐occurring motor problems, they resolved for those with ADHD alone. Divergent maturational pathways of motor networks (i.e., the CST) may, at least partly, explain motor problems individuals with ADHD.
‘Being a farmer, I mostly always think there is something more important to do’: A mixed methods analysis of the skin cancer detection practices of Australian farmers
Authors: Fletcher Chloe M. E. , Trenerry Camilla , Wilson Carlene , Gunn Kate M.
Published: August 2023

Issue Addressed

Farmers experience skin cancer and die from melanoma at significantly higher rates than the general Australian population. This study examined Australian farmers' engagement with self‐skin examinations (SSE), participation in clinical skin examinations (CSE) by a health professional, and self‐reported barriers to engagement with these important skin cancer detection practices.

Methods

A cross‐sectional, mixed‐methods design was used. Australian farmers were recruited through an industry‐based organisation representing livestock farmers. Farmers (N = 498; 22–89 years; 83.1% male) responded to a paper‐based survey that included closed‐ and open‐ended questions.

Results

Farmers reported engagement with self‐conducted SSE and routine CSE that was comparable to findings in the general population, but 29.4% of farmers reported that they had not sought a CSE as soon as possible after noticing changes to their skin. Farmers reported a range of barriers to SSE, including physical difficulties examining their skin, difficulties identifying changes in their skin, forgetfulness, and lack of motivation. Barriers to CSE included accessibility, cost, difficulties finding the right doctor, and avoidance and complacency.

Conclusions

There is a need to make clinical skin cancer detection more accessible to farmers, in addition to promoting self‐skin examination and help‐seeking behaviours within this at risk population.

So What?

Novel approaches are needed to address systemic barriers faced by Australian farmers. These may include the use of teledermatology or artificial intelligence to assist with CSE. Remote training delivery methods may be also utilised to teach SSE skills to farmers who may be otherwise unable to access such opportunities.
A skills‐matching perspective on talent management: Developing strategic agility
Authors: Jooss Stefan , Collings David G. , McMackin John , Dickmann Michael
Published: August 2023

Despite two decades of evolution as an area of research and practice, talent management faces ongoing criticism for being overly static in its approach, offering little in terms of enabling strategic agility. This is problematic as organizations increasingly rely on strategic agility to manage their dynamic business operations. Drawing on matching theory and adopting an agility lens, we explore the link between talent management and strategic agility. Through a qualitative research design, encompassing 34 interviews in 15 organizations, we explicate a skills‐matching perspective on talent management, including initial and dynamic skills‐matching in external and internal labor markets. Through this process, organizations can build a set of dynamic capabilities, underlying two meta‐capabilities, strategic sensitivity and resource fluidity, which enable strategic agility. In doing so, we portray skills‐matching as an illustration of a processual view on talent management and create a model of developing strategic agility through skills‐matching, responsive to external and internal demands.
Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in estuarine sediments as a consequence of the mine tailings remobilization and transport in the Rio Doce basin
Authors: da Silva Cesar A. , Zacché Danillo S. , Lehrback Bethânia D. , Cagnin Renata C. , Costa Eduardo S. , Longhini Cybelle M. , Bernardino Angelo F. , Sá Fabian , Neto Renato R.
Published: August 2023

The Fundão dam failure in 2015 severely impaired the economy, the lives of riverine communities, and the aquatic ecosystems of the Rio Doce basin in southeast Brazil. Several contaminants, including polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), were transported downstream, deposited in the estuary, and released into the Atlantic Ocean. The high concentration of PAHs in estuarine sediments may pose ecological risks and deleterious effects to benthic organisms, so here we aimed at determining the source and fate of these compounds before and after the tailings’ arrival. The mean concentration of the analyzed Σ16PAHs increased from 34.05 µg kg−1 in the prefailure period to 751.77 µg kg−1 one year after the arrival of the tailing. The classification of the sediment quality changed from low to moderate contamination. Our results suggest that there was PAHs remobilization by mine tailings along the Rio Doce basin. The target analytes exhibited mostly a pyrolytic profile from fossil fuel and biomass burning. In addition to other contaminants deposited in the estuary after the arrival of the tailings, this study revealed that the profile change of PAHs in the estuary region is a consequence of the mud's erosive power. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2024;20:169–178. © 2023 SETAC
The upcoming European Soil Monitoring Law: An effective instrument for the protection of terrestrial ecosystems?
Authors: Kotschik Pia , Princz Juliska , Silva Claudia de Lima e , Renaud Mathieu , Marti-Roura Mireia , Brooks Bonnie , Pieper Silvia , Rijk Ingrid , Simini Mike , Andres Sandrine , Scholz-Starke Björn , Grenni Paola
Published: August 2023

Soils are a precious resource consistently placed under several threats and urgently in need of protection within a regulatory framework at the European level. Soils are central to the provision of environmental services as well as human existence on earth. The need to protect soil has been identified by several recent European strategies and fortunately, a specific European regulation for soil protection is on the way—the European Soil Monitoring Law (formerly: Soil Health Law). However, efforts need to ensure that the upcoming Soil Monitoring Law closes gaps between existing regulations for chemicals and acknowledges current European strategies for environmental protection and sustainability. This brief communication started from a fruitful discussion among SETAC Global Soils Interest Group members on a recent public consultation on the newly proposed Soil Monitoring Law of the European Commission and highlights critical points focusing on the chemical pollution of soils. We emphasize urgent needs such as the essential definition of a “healthy state” of soils; the implementation of a suitable set of indicators and quality standards for the description of physical, chemical, and biological states of soils; the enforcement of the “polluter-pays” principle; and the establishment of a Europe-wide monitoring program. Results from monitoring need to be fed back into regulatory frameworks, including the regulation of chemicals. Guidance documents for the risk assessment of chemicals are outdated and need to be updated. Finally, actions need to be taken to foster healthy soils, stop biodiversity decline, and ensure the functioning of ecosystem services for future generations. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2024;20:316–321. © 2023 The Authors. Integrated Environmental Assessment and Management published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of Society of Environmental Toxicology & Chemistry (SETAC).
Maize nitrogen uptake and use efficiency, partial factor productivity of nitrogen, and yield response to different nitrogen and water applications under three irrigation methods
Authors: Irmak Suat , Mohammed Ali T.
Published: August 2023

The effects of irrigation and nitrogen (N) on grain yield, actual crop evapotranspiration (ETa), N uptake efficiency (NUE), partial factor productivity of N (PFPN), and N utilization efficiency (NUtE) of maize (Zea mays L.) under centre pivot (CP), subsurface drip (SDI) and gravity (furrow) irrigation (FI) were quantified. Field experiments were conducted in two growing seasons under the full irrigation treatment (FIT), limited irrigation treatments of 80% FIT and 60% FIT and rainfed treatment (RFT). The highest NUE was observed under limited irrigation in the order of 80% FIT > FIT ≥ 60% FIT in non‐traditional treatment‐1 (NT‐1) in both the CP and SDI methods. NUtE increased with irrigation amount. There were strong correlations between NUtE and grain yield regardless of irrigation method. ETa increased with N amount, and the slopes of these relationships varied substantially between irrigation and N levels and irrigation methods. PFPN increased with irrigation amount across the irrigation methods and N treatments. A higher PFPN was observed in the lowest total applied N plots and in‐season split N application treatments. The pooled data for the CP and SDI methods showed significantly higher PFPN (20.3%) than the FI method, whereas the PFPN values in the CP and SDI methods were equal.
Effects of different ratios of organic and inorganic fertilizer on rice yield and soil physicochemical properties under conventional and controlled irrigation conditions
Authors: Li Yuanyuan , He Ping , Leghari Shah Jahan , Li Yanbin , Gao Shikai , Li Daoxi
Published: August 2023

Water and fertilizer management practices are critical in rice fields. Excessive application of fertilizer adversely affects soil physicochemical properties, consequently decreasing yield. A greenhouse experiment was conducted to determine the effect of high (L1), medium (L2) and low organic fertilizer ratios (L3) as well as chemical fertilizer alone (L4) and no fertilization (L5) under conventional (C) and controlled irrigation (M) on rice yield and soil characteristics. Statistically, the regression equation was developed by using principal component analysis to clarify the influence of different soil quality factors on rice yield. The results showed that controlled irrigation could increase soil temperature (ST), electrical conductivity (EC) and nitrogen content while decreasing soil pH. The application of organic fertilizer enhanced ST and decreased EC. Under equal nitrogen application conditions, rice yield increased with organic fertilizer application, and it was highest under L1, which was 2.7% higher than L4 and 22% higher than L5. In the case of irrigation methods, controlled irrigation application increased yield by 6% compared to conventional irrigation. The multiple linear regression equation showed that the cumulative contribution of variance of the two principal component eigenvalues reached 75%, among which soil pH, total nitrogen (TN) content and nitrate nitrogen (NO3−‐N) contributed positively to yield, while ammonium nitrogen (NH4+‐N), soil organic carbon (SOC), EC and ST showed negative effects on rice yield. Thus, our study findings can provide a scientific basis for improving management practices.
P℘N functions, complete mappings and quasigroup difference sets
Authors: Anbar Nurdagül , Kalaycı Tekgül , Meidl Wilfried , Riera Constanza , Stănică Pantelimon
Published: August 2023

We investigate pairs of permutations of such that is a permutation for every . We show that, in that case, necessarily for some complete mapping of , and call the permutation a perfect nonlinear (PN) function. If , then is a PcN function, which have been considered in the literature, lately. With a binary operation on involving , we obtain a quasigroup, and show that the graph of a PN function is a difference set in the respective quasigroup. We further point to variants of symmetric designs obtained from such quasigroup difference sets. Finally, we analyze an equivalence (naturally defined via the automorphism group of the respective quasigroup) for PN functions, respectively, for the difference sets in the corresponding quasigroup.
β‐Lactoglobulin variants as potential carriers of pramoxine: Comprehensive structural and biophysical studies
Authors: Bonarek Piotr , Mularczyk Dorota , Loch Joanna I. , Kurpiewska Katarzyna , Dziedzicka‐Wasylewska Marta
Published: August 2023

β‐Lactoglobulin (BLG) is a member of the lipocalin family. As other proteins from this group, BLG can be modified to bind specifically compounds of medical interests. The aim of this study was to evaluate the role of two mutations, L39Y and L58F, in the binding of topical anesthetic pramoxine (PRM) to β‐lactoglobulin. Circular dichroism spectroscopy, isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC), and X‐ray crystallography were used to understand the mechanisms of BLG–PRM interactions. Studies were performed for three new BLG mutants: L39Y, L58F, and L39Y/L58F. ITC measurements indicated a significant increase in the affinity to the PRM of variants L58F and L39Y. Measurements taken for the double mutant L39Y/L58F showed the additivity of two mutations leading to about 80‐fold increase in the affinity to PRM in comparison to natural protein BLG from bovine milk. The determined crystal structures revealed that pramoxine is accommodated in the β‐barrel interior of BLG mutants and stabilized by hydrophobic interactions. The observed additive effect of two mutations on drug binding opens the possibility for further designing of new BLG variants with high affinity to selected drugs.
A first assessment of ERA5 and ERA5‐Land reanalysis air temperature in Portugal
Authors: Almeida Manuel , Coelho Pedro
Published: August 2023

This study evaluates the reliability of ERA5 and ERA5‐Land reanalysis datasets in describing the mean daily air temperature of four climate domains in mainland Portugal. The reanalysis datasets were compared with ground observations from 94 meteorological stations (1980–2021). Overall, the results demonstrated a good degree of correlation between the observed and reanalysis data on both a daily and seasonal scale. Both the latitudinal distribution of the air temperature and the moderating effect of the Atlantic Ocean are well described. However, in the case of Portugal, the ERA5‐Land was shown to be considerably more effective at describing the mean daily air temperature than ERA5. The results also indicated that, in general, the reanalysis methodologies perform better when applied to air temperature simulation in flatter regions as opposed to regions with high‐altitude and complex terrain. The study further suggests that ERA5 and ERA5‐Land reanalysis should be used with caution in the case of short‐term environmental studies. In fact, relevant differences were shown to exist between the reanalyses and the observed daily mean air temperature datasets for certain specific years. Overall, considering the RMSE between the ERA5‐Land reanalysis datasets for mean daily air temperature and the observed datasets there is a 28% probability of locally having a mean RMSE <1.5°C, 52% probability of having a mean RMSE >1.5°C and <2.0°C, and 16% probability of having a RMSE >2.0°C and <3.0°C. These conclusions will hopefully contribute to improving our understanding of the uncertainty sources in relation to ERA5 and ERA5‐Land reanalysis data for different climate domains.
The ageless approach: Nonoperative mastery competes head‐on with surgery for elderly distal radius fractures
Authors: Yalin Mustafa , Golgelioglu Fatih , Key Sefa
Published: August 2023

The aim of the current study is to compare the clinical outcomes of cast immobilization (CI) versus surgical treatment after 1 year for distal radius fractures (DRFs) in the elderly population. The cohort included patients aged 70–89 who suffered an acute, closed, and displaced DRF and who were treated conservatively or surgically at our clinic between August 2018 and January 2022. Those who had pathological fractures, open fractures, concomitant ulna fractures (except ulna styloid fractures), were not between the ages of 70 and 89, or refused to participate were excluded from the study. The study gathered data on patient demographics, initial radiological measurements, clinical measurements after 1 year, treatment models employed, and rates of complications. Of the total number of patients (276), CI was used on 77.2% (213), whereas the other 25 had volar‐locked plates (VLP), 25 received external fixators with percutaneous pinning (EFPP), and 13 had isolated percutaneous pinning (IPP). 19 of 276 individuals had complications, with Complex Regional Pain Syndrome and Carpal Tunnel Syndrome being the most often documented. EFPP resulted in significantly higher Disability of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) score values than VLP and IPP at the 1st postoperative year (p < 0.05). No statistically significant difference was found between the DASH score and ROM values at the 1st postoperative year for patients who received CI versus those who underwent surgery (p > 0.05). In the first postoperative year, CI still retains its validity and performs similarly to surgery for DRFs in older individuals. VLPP and IPP methods outperformed EFPP surgeries.
Different responses of enzyme activities to 6‐year warming after transplant of the 12 types of soils
Authors: Miao Shujie , Wu Xingyao , Guo Yan , Zhao Hongfei , Qiao Yunfa
Published: August 2023

Background

Soil enzymes regulate terrestrial nutrient cycles, and their activities are sensitive to environmental change. Facing climate warming, there are still contradictions over soil enzymes of different soil types in response to climate warming.

Aims

The present study aims to reveal the impact of elevated temperature on soil properties. Specifically, we intended to explore the relationship between the activity of soil enzyme and soil property facing elevated temperature across soil types.

Methods

A long‐term warming experiment was conducted to assess the possible responses of three enzymes (urease, phosphatase, and sucrase) to elevated temperature across 12 soil types. These soils were collected across China and transported to Nanjing in 2016. Free air temperature increase system with an infrared radiation heater was used to elevate the air temperature by 2°C in elevated treatment (eT). Wheat–soybean continuous rotation was cultivated in the long‐term experiment field since 2016. Enzyme activities, soil pH, soil organic carbon, available nitrogen (AN) and phosphorus (AP), and water content were measured after wheat harvest in 2021.

Results

Warming significantly increased the activities of urease and sucrase in most soil types but dramatically decreased phosphatase activity. The responses of the three enzyme activities to warming varied across soil types, which depended on soil properties. In contrast, soil pH was the major driver in regulating urease activity. Soil AN and water content were two key factors for driving phosphatase activity. However, no such relationship was found for sucrase activity. All these responses did not show obvious regional characteristics.

Conclusion

These results suggested that soil enzyme was sensitive to air warming, which was associated with different soil properties. Thus, managing soil variables might be a potential strategy to maintain soil enzymatic activity in facing future climate warming.
Effects of contrast and ambient illumination on visual discomfort of autostereoscopic display
Authors: Wang Qin , Zhao Wu‐Xiang , Zhang Lei
Published: August 2023

The conflict between vergence and accommodation is the main perceptual factors contributing to visual discomfort when viewing autostereoscopic display. The key factors relevant to the accommodation and vergence are the ambient illumination and the contrast. The current study was a 2 × 3 × 3 mixed design comparing VFSI and VIMS symptoms between 2D and 3D video clips with three contrast levels under three ambient illumination levels on the autostereoscopic display. Twenty participants were required to evaluate the degree of discomfort by filing out questionnaires after watching those video clips. According to the result analysis, the 3D viewing participants reported more severe symptoms compared to 2D. The moderate contrast conditions were found to be the optimum for viewing comfort. The difference between VFSI and VIMS symptoms become larger with increasing contrast. The results also suggested the optimum 3D illumination condition should not be too high to effectively relieve visual discomfort. VIMS symptoms were more sensitive to the changes in ambient illumination than VFSI. Moreover, significant interaction between contrast and ambient illumination was found. Participants felt the most comfortable in the combination effect of moderate level of contrast and the high level of ambient illumination.