bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A novel lncRNA LOC105613571 binding with BDNF in pituitary promotes gonadotropin secretion by AKT/ERK‐mTOR pathway in sheep associated with prolificacy
Authors: Cai Yu , Yang Hua , Wan Zhen , Chen Pei‐Yong , Wang Zhi‐Bo , Guo Jin‐Jing , Wang Daxiang , Wang Feng , Zhang Yanli
Published: July 2023

The pituitary is a vital endocrine organ for synthesis and secretion of gonadotropic hormones (FSH and LH), and the gonadotropin showed fluctuations in animals with different fecundity. Long non‐coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been identified as regulatory factors for the reproductive process. However, the profiles of lncRNAs and their roles involved in sheep fecundity remains unclear. In this study, we performed RNA‐sequencing for the sheep pituitary gland associated with different fecundity, and identified a novel candidate lncRNA LOC105613571 targeting BDNF related to gonadotropin secretion. Our results showed that expression of lncRNA LOC105613571 and BDNF could be significantly upregulated by GnRH stimulation in sheep pituitary cells in vitro. Notably, either lncRNA LOC105613571 or BDNF silencing inhibited cell proliferation while promoted cell apoptosis. Moreover, lncRNA LOC105613571 knockdown could also downregulate gonadotropin secretion via inactivation AKT, ERK and mTOR pathway. In addition, co‐treatment with GnRH stimulation and lncRNA LOC105613571 or BDNF knockdown showed the opposite effect on sheep pituitary cells in vitro. In summary, BDNF‐binding lncRNA LOC105613571 in sheep regulates pituitary cell proliferation and gonadotropin secretion via the AKT/ERK‐mTOR pathway, providing new ideas for the molecular mechanisms of pituitary functions.
A Comprehensive Review of Biosensor Integration in Microphysiological Systems for Online Monitoring: Current Challenges and Future Advancements
Authors: Hussain Memon Fida , Inseok Kang , Ahmed Faheem , Ali Wajid , Soomro Afaque Manzoor , Raza Memon Saleem , Hussain Memon Kashif , Choi Kyung Hyun
Published: July 2023

The goal of microphysiological systems (MPS) is to replicate the relevant functionality of human organ tissues in in vitro. MPS technology so far has been used to simulate the various human organs and with the help of sensor integration in the MPS systems the biological activities of the organ to be modeled have been translated into data to be analyzed for further considerations. Most standard characterization approaches are intrusive and detrimental, and not feasible for online monitoring of cell cultures. Microfluidic biosensors, for instant, provide non‐invasive on‐line detection of biomarkers and molecules under targeted indicators with a high detection extent, successfully overcoming the limits of existing approaches. Microfluidic biosensors are rapidly being incorporated into MPS and employed for real‐time target identification as a result. In this review the focus is on emerging ways for miniaturizing and embedding biosensing systems in MPS also known as “organ‐on‐chip”. Cutting‐edge microfluidic biosensors are also covered with examples, showing their key benefits in monitoring MPS and highlighting current breakthroughs, before describing the remaining problems and anticipated future improvements in integrated microfluidic biosensors.
The Role of Water in Carbon Dioxide Adsorption in Porphyrinic Metal‐Organic Frameworks
Authors: Baumgartner Bettina , Prins P. Tim , Louwen Jaap N. , Monai Matteo , Weckhuysen Bert M.
Published: July 2023

Capturing and converting CO2 through artificial photosynthesis using photoactive, porous materials is a promising approach for addressing increasing CO2 concentrations. Porphyrinic Zr‐based metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs) are of particular interest as they incorporate a photosensitizer in the porous structure. Herein, the initial step of the artificial photosynthesis is studied: CO2 sorption and activation in the presence of water. A combined vibrational and visible spectroscopic approach was used to monitor the adsorption of CO2 into PCN‐222 and PCN‐223 MOFs, and the photophysical changes of the porphyrinic linker as a function of water concentration. A shift in CO2 sorption site and bending of the porphyrin macrocycle in response to humidity was observed, and CO2/H2O competition experiments revealed that the exchange of CO2 with H2O is pore‐size dependent. Therefore, humidity and pore‐size can be used to tune CO2 sorption, CO2 capacity, and light harvesting in porphyrinic MOFs, which are key factors for CO2 photoreduction.
The Cyanido‐Sulfate Anion [SO3CN]−
Authors: Kasperowicz Thomas , van Gerven David , Wickleder Mathias S.
Published: July 2023

The reaction of the pyridine adduct of SO3 and tetra‐n‐butyl‐ammonium cyanide, [N(nBu)4][CN] at room temperature leads to the unprecedented cyanido‐sulfate anion [SO3CN]− stabilized in the salt [N(nBu)4][SO3CN]. The anion is a pseudo‐halogen congener of the well‐known fluoro‐ and chloro‐sulfates. The new anion has been studied by vibrational spectroscopy and theoretical calculations.
Protein Shift – How Membrane Technology Can Contribute
Authors: Lipnizki Frank , Thuvander Johan , Rudolph-Schöpping Gregor
Published: July 2023

Proteins are not only important for our daily diet but also one of the most important food ingredients worldwide. Since the 1970ies membrane processes have established themselves as a key unit operation in protein processing, e.g., in the dairy industry. The recent trend of the protein shift moving consumption of animal‐based to plant‐based proteins provides new applications for membrane processes. Thus, in this work, the opportunities to transfer the membrane processing experiences from animal‐based proteins to plant‐based protein products will be the focus.
Associations between birth defects with neural crest cell origins and pediatric embryonal tumors
Authors: Wong Eugene C. , Lupo Philip J. , Desrosiers Tania A. , Nichols Hazel B. , Smith Susan M. , Poole Charles , Canfield Mark , Shumate Charles , Chambers Tiffany M. , Schraw Jeremy M. , Nembhard Wendy N. , Yazdy Mahsa M. , Nestoridi Eirini , Janitz Amanda E. , Olshan Andrew F.
Published: July 2023

Background

There are few assessments evaluating associations between birth defects with neural crest cell developmental origins (BDNCOs) and embryonal tumors, which are characterized by undifferentiated cells having a molecular profile similar to neural crest cells. The effect of BDNCOs on embryonal tumors was estimated to explore potential shared etiologic pathways and genetic origins.

Methods

With the use of a multistate, registry‐linkage cohort study, BDNCO–embryonal tumor associations were evaluated by generating hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) with Cox regression models. BDNCOs consisted of ear, face, and neck defects, Hirschsprung disease, and a selection of congenital heart defects. Embryonal tumors included neuroblastoma, nephroblastoma, and hepatoblastoma. Potential HR modification (HRM) was investigated by infant sex, maternal race/ethnicity, maternal age, and maternal education.

Results

The risk of embryonal tumors among those with BDNCOs was 0.09% (co‐occurring n = 105) compared to 0.03% (95% CI, 0.03%–0.04%) among those without a birth defect. Children with BDNCOs were 4.2 times (95% CI, 3.5–5.1 times) as likely to be diagnosed with an embryonal tumor compared to children born without a birth defect. BDNCOs were strongly associated with hepatoblastoma (HR, 16.1; 95% CI, 11.3–22.9), and the HRs for neuroblastoma (3.1; 95% CI, 2.3–4.2) and nephroblastoma (2.9; 95% CI, 1.9–4.4) were elevated. There was no notable HRM by the aforementioned factors.

Conclusions

Children with BDNCOs are more likely to develop embryonal tumors compared to children without a birth defect. Disruptions of shared developmental pathways may contribute to both phenotypes, which could inform future genomic assessments and cancer surveillance strategies of these conditions.
Redox Properties and in Vivo Magnetic Resonance Imaging of Cyclodextrin‐Polynitroxides Contrast Agents
Authors: Franco Lorenzo , Isse Abdirisak Ahmed , Barbon Antonio , Altomare Lina , Hyppönen Viivi , Rosa Jessica , Olsson Venla , Kettunen Mikko , Melone Lucio
Published: July 2023

This paper reports the synthesis, characterization and in vivo application of water‐soluble supramolecular contrast agents (Mw: 5–5.6 kDa) for MRI obtained from β‐cyclodextrin functionalized with different kinds of nitroxide radicals, both with piperidine structure (CD2 and CD3) and with pyrrolidine structure (CD4 and CD5). As to the stability of the radicals in presence of ascorbic acid, CD4 and CD5 have low second order kinetic constants (≤0.05 M−1 s−1) compared to CD2 (3.5 M−1 s−1) and CD3 (0.73 M−1 s−1). Relaxivity (r1) measurements on compounds CD3‐CD5 were carried out at different magnetic field strength (0.7, 3, 7 and 9.4 T). At 0.7 T, r1 values comprised between 1.5 mM−1 s−1 and 1.9 mM−1 s−1 were found while a significant reduction was observed at higher fields (r1≈0.6‐0.9 mM−1 s−1 at 9.4 T). Tests in vitro on HEK293 human embryonic kidney cells, L929 mouse fibroblasts and U87 glioblastoma cells indicated that all compounds were non‐cytotoxic at concentrations below 1 μmol mL−1. MRI in vivo was carried out at 9.4 T on glioma‐bearing rats using the compounds CD3‐CD5. The experiments showed a good lowering of T1 relaxation in tumor with a retention of the contrast for at least 60 mins confirming improved stability also in vivo conditions.
Water Induced Alterations in Self‐Assembly of a Bio‐Surfactant in Deep Eutectic Solvent for Enhanced Enzyme Activity
Authors: Sethi Omish , Singh Manpreet , Sood Ashwani Kumar , Kang Tejwant Singh
Published: July 2023

Deep eutectic solvents (DESs) meet important requirements for green solvent technology, including non‐toxicity, biodegradability, sustainability, and affordability. Despite possessing low cohesive energy density than water, DESs have been found to support the self‐assembly of amphiphiles. It is very much pertinent to examine the effect of water on self‐assembly of surfactants in DESs as the presence of water alters the inherent structure of DES, which is expected to affect the characteristic properties of self‐assembly. Following this, we have investigated the self‐assembly of amino‐acid based surfactant, Sodium N‐lauroyl sarcosinate (SLS), in DES‐water mixtures (10, 30 and 50 w/w% of water) and explored the catalytic activity of Cytochrome‐c (Cyt‐c) in the formed colloidal systems. Investigations using surface tension, fluorescence, dynamic light scattering (DLS), and isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC) have shown that DES‐water mixtures promote the aggregation of SLS, resulting in the lower critical aggregation concentration (cac ∼1.5–6‐fold) of the surfactant as compared to water. The nanoclustering of DES at low water content and it's complete de‐structuring at high water content affects the self‐assembly in a contrasting manner governed by different set of interactions. Further, Cyt‐c dispersed in DES‐water colloidal solutions demonstrated 5‐fold higher peroxidase activity than that observed in phosphate buffer.
The Race to Reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions in U.S. Dairy Through Improved Soil Health
Authors: Afshar Reza
Published: July 2023

This is the first article in a new series in Crops & Soils magazine that will look at soil health and greenhouse gas emissions on U.S. dairies associated with crop production. Articles will cover soil health practices, data‐based decision‐making, greenhouse gas measurement in soils, manure application and storage, and informing future carbon markets with science. This article will discuss the Dairy Soil and Water Regeneration project. Using a whole‐systems approach, project researchers are measuring how different management practices—from using cover crops to applying novel fertilizers, including manure‐based products—affect soil health, potentially reduce greenhouse emissions and impact water quality under varying climate and field water management systems. Earn 0.5 CEUs in Sustainability by reading this article and taking the quiz at https://web.sciencesocieties.org/Learning‐Center/Courses.
Managing Plant‐Parasitic Nematodes in Pacific Northwest Potatoes
Authors: Boyd Vicky
Published: July 2023

Several plant‐parasitic nematode species are found in Pacific Northwest potato fields, and they can potentially cause agronomic damage alone or, in some cases, in conjunction with diseases. Because of interactions with other host crops and pathogens, not to mention fumigant costs, managing the soil‐borne pests requires a combination that may include soil sampling, crop rotation, nematicides, fumigation, and biofumigation. Earn 1 CEU in Integrated Pest Management by reading this article and taking the quiz at https://web.sciencesocieties.org/Learning‐Center/Courses.
High‐speed adaptive analog filter based on fully analog artificial neural network
Authors: Paulů Filip , Hospodka Jiří
Published: July 2023

This paper presents an innovative concept of a high‐speed and higher order adaptive filter. A fully analog artificial neural network handles the adaption by using a filter bank for filtering and learning through analog feedback inspired by backpropagation. There is no clock control used in this concept, which makes real‐time adaption possible even for high frequencies. Its functionality is shown by several electrical circuit simulations involving component inaccuracies as well as a commonly used filter example.
Effects of grazing intensity on diversity and composition of rhizosphere and non‐rhizosphere microbial communities in a desert grassland
Authors: Yang Yang , Zhang Hao , Liu Wei , Sun Jiamei , Zhao Mengli , Han Guodong , Pan Qingmin
Published: July 2023

Overgrazing‐induced grassland degradation has become a serious ecological problem worldwide. The diversity and composition of soil microbial communities are sensitive to grazing disturbances. However, our understanding is limited with respect to the effects of grazing intensity on bacterial and fungal communities, especially in plant rhizosphere. Using a long‐term grazing experiment, we evaluated the diversity and composition of microbial communities in both rhizosphere and non‐rhizosphere soils under three grazing intensities (light, moderate, and heavy grazing) in a desert grassland and examined the relative roles of grazing‐induced changes in some abiotic and biotic factors in affecting the diversity and composition of microbial communities. Our results showed that soil bacteria differed greatly in diversity and composition between rhizosphere and non‐rhizosphere zones, and so did soil fungi. Moderate and heavy grazing significantly reduced the rhizosphere bacterial diversity. Grazing intensity substantially altered the bacterial composition and the fungal composition in both zones but with different mechanisms. While root nitrogen and soil nitrogen played an important role in shaping the rhizosphere bacterial composition, soil‐available phosphorus greatly affected the non‐rhizosphere bacterial composition and the fungal composition in both soils. This study provides direct experimental evidence that the diversity and composition of microbial communities were severely altered by heavy grazing on a desert grassland. Thus, to restore the grazing‐induced, degraded grasslands, we should pay more attention to the conservation of soil microbes in addition to vegetation recovery.
Cascading effects of climate change and wildfire on a subarctic lake: A 20‐year case study of watershed change
Authors: Larsen Amy S. , Rupp Danielle L. , Swanson David K. , Hill Kenneth R.
Published: July 2023

Mean annual air temperature has been increasing in Alaska since the 1970s and is expected to continue to increase through the current century, resulting in significant environmental changes (e.g., permafrost thaw, shifts in vegetation community composition and distribution, increased wildfire frequency and severity). Because there is little long‐term monitoring data available on lake ecosystems in the subarctic it is difficult to predict how lakes will respond. Here we present data from an ~20‐year long‐term lake and climate monitoring program in Interior Alaska. A significant portion of the lake catchment was burned by wildfires in 1986 and again in 2004. As a result, much of the vegetation in the lake catchment was converted from spruce‐dominated forest to deciduous forest, indicating likely permafrost degradation. At a nearby monitoring site absent of fire effects, mean annual ground temperatures at 50 and 90 cm warmed significantly from about −2°C to about −1°C over the 20‐year monitoring period. Warming of similar or greater magnitude is inferred at the study site due to fire effects. Lake water analyses before and after the 2004 fire show a significant postfire increase in dissolved organic carbon, total nitrogen, and total phosphorous that persisted for a short period (~3 years) and was followed by small, but significant, increases in specific conductance and ion concentrations. Approximately 15 years postfire sulfate and cation concentrations in the lake increased exponentially due to the development of a groundwater seep near the lake. The seep likely formed as a result of permafrost thaw creating new subsurface flowpaths in response to long‐term climate warming and fire effects. In 2021, specific conductance and sulfate concentrations reached 657 μS/cm and 71 mg/L respectively, exceeding tolerance thresholds of the water lilyNuphar lutea. In 2021,N. luteabeds that had occupied the lake since 1981 were no longer visible. Depending on local catchment characteristics, source waters and flow paths contributing to small subarctic lakes will continue to evolve uniquely in response to climate change and thawing permafrost. This case study shows the cascading effects of warming soil and wildfires on catchment characteristics as well as terrestrial and aquatic vegetation and lake water chemistry.
Kinetics of the in vivo genotoxic and radioprotective effects of methyl gallate and epigallocatechin gallate
Authors: Cruz‐Vallejo Virginia , Zarco‐Mendoza Anaís , Morales‐Ramírez Pedro
Published: July 2023

The aim of this study was to compare the kinetics of the in vivo action of equimolar doses of methyl gallate (MG) and epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) on their capacity to induce DNA damage and to protect against DNA damage induced by 60Co gamma rays. DNA‐damaged cells were determined by single‐cell gel electrophoresis (comets) in murine peripheral blood leukocytes. The maximum radioprotective effects of MG and EGCG (approximately 70%) occurred at 15 min after administration when their effect was determined 2 min following irradiation. MG and EGCG have similar radioprotective indexes, which due to their fast response indicate that they are involved in free radical scavenging. Due to the similar radioprotective activities of MG and EGCG, the in vivo radioprotective effects of these agents do not seem to be dependent on the number of hydroxyl groups present in their structures but instead on the presence of the galloyl radical. EGCG induces an early, significant, and persistent increase in the number of DNA‐damaged cells and a later and more important increase in the number of damaged cells, suggesting that it has two mechanisms by which it can induce DNA damage. MG at the same molar dose as EGCG caused a significant and persistent increase in DNA damaged cells but to a much lesser extent to that induce by EGCG, suggesting that the galloyl radical is not involved in the mechanism of DNA breaks induction.
Morphology and anatomy of leaves and vegetative shoots in Calocedrus Kurz (Cupressoideae, Cupressaceae s.str.) in the light of species identification
Authors: Dörken Veit Martin , Rushforth Keith , Hudson Tom , Nimsch Hubertus
Published: July 2023

Identifying conifers without reproductive structures is often quite difficult. However, the cones are not always available. Thus, species identification has to be done on the base of vegetative structures. Here distinct diagnostic differences are needed to distinguish between the taxa and good macro‐ and micromorphological as well as anatomical features are urgently needed. In this study, the morphology of sterile shoots and the leaf anatomy of the cupressaceous genus Calocedrus were investigated. The study's aim is to find reliable diagnostic features allowing a serious identification of each distinct species in the absence of reproductive structures. A short identification key for all four Calocedrus species was prepared. It includes also the rare C. rupestris, which is missing in most of the previous works, so this gap is closed now. In addition, the study should show which ones are good diagnostic features that might be useful for preparing identification keys on the base of vegetative features also for other scale‐leaved conifers.
Early Cretaceous terminal convergence between the North China‐Mongolia and Siberia continents: Imprints from the Chagan Obo shear zone in central Inner Mongolia, North China
Authors: Wang Yang , Gao Yongfeng , Xu Shengchuan , Santosh M. , Jiao Tianjia
Published: July 2023

The ENE‐striking Chagan Obo shear zone in central Inner Mongolia is critical to constrain the termination of convergence between the North China‐Mongolia and Siberia continents. We recognized three ENE‐striking zones with strong deformation in the Permian biotite monzogranite within the shear zone and investigated the structural and kinematic characteristics. The strong deformation zones developed dense ENE‐striking and NNW‐dipping foliations. The widespread shear sense indicators such as S‐C foliations, mica fish, σ‐type, structures, and typical tight‐to‐isoclinal asymmetric folds show top‐to‐the‐SSE thrusting through NNW–SSE compression. Two 40Ar‐39Ar ages of muscovites from the muscovite quartz schists in this shear zone show 144.1 ± 1.2 Ma and 142.1 ± 0.9 Ma, respectively, providing the peak compression to be Early Cretaceous (144–142 Ma). Combined with the regional syn‐/post‐collisional magmatic rocks (166–155 Ma) related to the closure of the Mongol‐Okhotsk Ocean, this shear zone's ages (144–142 Ma) suggest that the continental convergence between the North China‐Mongolia and Siberia continents lasted from Late Jurassic to Early Cretaceous. The Early Cretaceous shoshonitic volcanism (137–133 Ma) and rift basins in this region indicate the onset of orogenic collapse in the eastern Central Asian Orogenic Belt.
High heat production of the Late Mesozoic Luanchuan granites from East Qinling Orogen, China: Implications for petrogenesis and mineral exploration
Authors: Ren Weidong , Yang Fan , Qian Zesheng , Liu Chao , Li Xinyuan , Santosh M. , Xue Fei
Published: July 2023

Some of the high heat production granites in the continental crust have been suggested to be linked with I‐, A‐, and partly S‐type granitoids which aided in the formation of associated polymetallic deposits. Here, we investigate the Shibaogou and Laojunshan plutons in the Luanchuan region, East Qinling Orogen, China, and integrate these with published geochemical information to compute the rate of heat production per unit rock mass (RHP value, unit μW/m3). In addition, we also present RHP contour maps of all the Late Mesozoic granitic plutons in the Luanchuan region, with a view to evaluate the link among the high heat production granites, their petrogenesis and mineralization. The RHP values of granitoids in the Luanchuan region vary from 1.7 to 14.44, with the Nannihu pluton showing the highest RHP peak value of 6.04, whereas the Huoshenmiao pluton has the lowest RHP peak value of 2.59. The RHP values have a positive correlation with the degree of magma differentiation, as suggested that the Nannihu pluton is a highly fractionated I‐type granite and the Huoshenmiao pluton is a quartz diorite. This is also consistent with U, Th and K which are incompatible elements that tend to enter the melt during magma evolution. Furthermore, the higher RHP value intrusions (e.g., Nannihu, Daping) show close genetic links with high economic deposits, whilst the plutons with lower RHP values are generally related to small ore deposits. We envisage that the high heat production granites underwent protracted cooling process, which promote the convection and circulation of hydrothermal fluids, so that ore‐forming materials (e.g., Mo, W) can sufficiently accumulate and precipitate as economic mineralization. This also indicates that these granitoids with relatively higher RHP values have a greater metallogenic potential. The RHP contour mapping results show high RHP value domains ranging from 2.68 to 4.82 in the southeast and northeast segments of the Shibaogou pluton, whereas the RHP values of other regions in this pluton vary from 2.14 to 2.68. In contrast, the high RHP value regions mostly occur within the western and eastern parts of the Laojunshan pluton, and range from 4.91 to 6.21. Other regions in the Laojunshan pluton have low RHP values in the range of 2.69–4.91. A few Mo‐W deposits are mostly hosted in the southeastern part of the Shibaogou pluton, implying that these regions with high RHP values might have higher metallogenic potential. The contour mapping of RHP maximum, minimum, average and peak values of all the Mesozoic granitic plutons in the Luanchuan region also show high value zones within and/or at peripheral regions of the Nannihu ore fields and these segments between the Nannihu and Yuku ore fields, which suggest that these zones likely have high potential for Mo‐W exploration.
Transorbital transposition of the temporoparietal fascia flap to reconstruct the skull base defects: A preclinical study with comparison to the transpterygoid transposition
Authors: Lin Bon‐Jour , Ju Da‐Tong , Hueng Dueng‐Yuan , Chen Yuan‐Hao , Ma Hsin‐I , Liu Ming‐Ying
Published: July 2023

Background

Transpterygoid transposition of the temporoparietal fascia flap (TPFF) is a feasible selection for ventral skull base defect (VSBD) reconstruction, but not anterior skull base defect (ASBD) reconstruction, after expanded endoscopic endonasal approach (EEEA). The goal of this study is to introduce the transorbital transposition of the TPFF for skull base defects reconstruction after EEEA, and make quantitative comparison between the transpterygoid transposition and transorbital transposition.

Methods

Cadaveric dissections were performed in five adult cadaveric heads with creating three transporting corridors bilaterally, encompassing superior transorbital corridor, inferior transorbital corridor, and transpterygoid corridor. For each transporting corridor, the minimum necessary length of the TPFF for skull base defects reconstruction was measured.

Results

The areas of ASBD and VSBD were 1019.63 ± 176.32 mm2 and 572.99 ± 126.21 mm2. The length of the harvested TPFF was 149.38 ± 6.21 mm. In contrast to the transpterygoid transposition with incomplete coverage, transorbital transposition of the TPFF allowed full coverage of ASBD with a minimum necessary length of 109.75 ± 8.31 mm. For VSBD reconstruction, transorbital transposition of the TPFF needs shorter minimum necessary length (123.88 ± 4.49 mm) than transpterygoid transposition (138.00 ± 6.28 mm).

Conclusions

Transorbital corridor is a novel pathway for transporting the TPFF into the sinonasal cavity for skull base defects reconstruction after EEEA. In comparison with transpterygoid transposition, transorbital transposition provides wider coverage of skull base defects with a fixed length of the TPFF.
An efficient deep learning algorithm for the segmentation of cardiac ventricles
Authors: Sadhanandan Ciyamala Kushbu , Tharcis Mariapushpam Inbamalar , Suresh Sudha
Published: July 2023

For the effective diagnosis of cardio vascular disease (CVD), anatomical characteristics of the heart must be examined, which depends on segmenting the cardiac tissues of interest and then classifying them into appropriate pathological groups. In recent years, deep learning (DL)‐based computer aided design (CAD) segmentation has been employed to automate the segmentation process. Despite the evolution of several DL methods, they still fail due to the shape variation of the heart in patients and the availability of a limited amount of data. This paper proposes an effective Saliency and Active Contour‐based Attention UNet3+ algorithm to segment the ventricles of the heart, which is a challenging task for most researchers, especially with an irregularly shaped right ventricle (RV) that varies over cardiac phases. The algorithm outperforms other state‐of‐the‐art methods in DC metrics, which proves its efficiency in automating the segmentation process.
Accurate thermochemistry at affordable cost by means of an improved version of the JunChS‐F12 model chemistry
Authors: Di Grande S. , Kállay M. , Barone V.
Published: July 2023

The junChS‐F12 composite method has been improved by means of the latest implementation of the CCSD(F12*)(T+) ansatz and validated for the thermochemistry of molecules containing atoms of the first three rows of the periodic table. A thorough benchmark showed that this model, in conjunction with cost‐effective revDSD‐PBEP86‐D3(BJ) reference geometries, offers an optimal compromise between accuracy and computational cost. If improved geometries are sought, the most effective option is to add MP2‐F12 core‐valence correlation corrections to CCSD(T)‐F12b/jun‐cc‐pVTZ geometries without the need of performing any extrapolation to the complete basis set limit. In the same vein, CCSD(T)‐F12b/jun‐cc‐pVTZ harmonic frequencies are remarkably accurate without any additional contribution. Pilot applications to noncovalent intermolecular interactions, conformational landscapes, and tautomeric equilibria confirm the effectiveness and reliability of the model.
Short‐term disuse does not affect postabsorptive or postprandial muscle protein fractional breakdown rates
Authors: Pavis George F. , Abdelrahman Doaa R. , Murton Andrew J. , Wall Benjamin T. , Stephens Francis B. , Dirks Marlou L.
Published: July 2023

Background

The decline in postabsorptive and postprandial muscle protein fractional synthesis rates (FSR) does not quantitatively account for muscle atrophy during uncomplicated, short‐term disuse, when atrophy rates are the highest. We sought to determine whether 2 days of unilateral knee immobilization affects mixed muscle protein fractional breakdown rates (FBR) during postabsorptive and simulated postprandial conditions.

Methods

Twenty‐three healthy, male participants (age: 22 ± 1 year; height: 179 ± 1 cm; body mass: 73.4 ± 1.5 kg; body mass index 22.8 ± 0.5 kg·m−2) took part in this randomized, controlled study. After 48 h of unilateral knee immobilization, primed continuous intravenous l‐[15N]‐phenylalanine and l‐[ring‐2H5]‐phenylalanine infusions were used for parallel determinations of FBR and FSR, respectively, in a postabsorptive (saline infusion; FAST) or simulated postprandial state (67.5 mg·kg body mass−1·h−1 amino acid infusion; FED). Bilateral m. vastus lateralis biopsies from the control (CON) and immobilized (IMM) legs, and arterialized‐venous blood samples, were collected throughout.

Results

Amino acid infusion rapidly increased plasma phenylalanine (59 ± 9%), leucine (76 ± 5%), isoleucine (109 ± 7%) and valine (42 ± 4%) concentrations in FED only (all P < 0.001), which was sustained for the remainder of infusion. Serum insulin concentrations peaked at 21.8 ± 2.2 mU·L−1 at 15 min in FED only (P < 0.001) and were 60% greater in FED than FAST (P < 0.01). Immobilization did not influence FBR in either FAST (CON: 0.150 ± 0.018; IMM: 0.143 ± 0.017%·h−1) or FED (CON: 0.134 ± 0.012; IMM: 0.160 ± 0.018%·h−1; all effects P > 0.05). However, immobilization decreased FSR (P < 0.05) in both FAST (0.071 ± 0.004 vs. 0.086 ± 0.007%·h−1; IMM vs CON, respectively) and FED (0.066 ± 0.016 vs. 0.119 ± 0.016%·h−1; IMM vs CON, respectively). Consequently, immobilization decreased net muscle protein balance (P < 0.05) and to a greater extent in FED (CON: −0.012 ± 0.025; IMM: −0.095 ± 0.023%·h−1; P < 0.05) than FAST (CON: −0.064 ± 0.020; IMM: −0.072 ± 0.017%·h−1).

Conclusions

We conclude that merely 2 days of leg immobilization does not modulate postabsorptive and simulated postprandial muscle protein breakdown rates. Instead, under these conditions the muscle negative muscle protein balance associated with brief periods of experimental disuse is driven near exclusively by reduced basal muscle protein synthesis rates and anabolic resistance to amino acid administration.
Recent changes in the snow cover characteristics in Poland
Authors: Wibig Joanna , Jędruszkiewicz Joanna
Published: July 2023

Snow cover (SC) is a great indicator of climate change. It is highly related to temperature. Since the Polish climate faces warmer conditions, changes in the wintertime precipitation phase are observed. More frequent rainfall instead of snowfall is noticed at the end of the 20th and beginning of the 21st centuries. This work presents the spatial distribution, its changes, and variabilities of selected parameters that described snow cover in Poland from 1966/1967 to 2020/2021. The snow characteristics used in the study comprise of SC duration (SCD), the first and last day with SC in the season (SCbeg and SCend), the potential duration of SC season (PSCD), SC stability (SCS), average, maximum and accumulated SC depth (HS, HSmax and AHS). The changes in snow cover waves were analysed. Generally, the Polish climate is mild in the west, where the snow cover is finer and occurs relatively rarely and becomes more continental toward the north‐east, where the snow cover has a better condition to accumulate and preserve. The southern parts of the country are covered by mountain ranges of the Carpathians and Sudetes, where the snow cover remains the longest. The spatial distribution of the coefficient of variability is reversely proportional to SC characteristics—the highest in the north‐east (especially for the HS, HSmax and AHS). The most significant changes in SC are related to a decrease in SCD (5–7 days/decade), HSmax (1–2 cm/decade) and AHS (30–60 cm/decade). At the same time, the snow cover season becomes considerably shorter (especially in the western and central parts—about 10 days/decade). The trends in SCS are not yet significant in most of the country. This study reveals that the snow cover in Poland is under constant change, and the negative trends, which were hardly or not visible at the end of the 20th century, in the last decades have become statistically significant in a greater number of Polish stations.
Influence of laser energy density on the microstructure and corrosion resistance of LPBF‐fabricated titanium‐based nanocomposites
Authors: Shi Xiaojie , Ye Xiu , Ren Shuai , Lu Peipei , Wang Yiyao , Wu Meiping , Li Chaoyang
Published: July 2023

As a high‐efficiency laser additive manufacturing technology, laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) has unparalleled advantages in the manufacture of titanium matrix composites. In this work, the effect of laser energy density (LED) on the forming quality, microstructure evolution, and corrosion resistance of LPBF‐fabricated nanographene oxide reinforced titanium matrix nanocomposites (GO/TC4) was investigated. The results show that the optimal surface roughness and relative density of GO/TC4 nanocomposites fabricated by LPBF are 11.8 μm and 99.40%, respectively. The microstructure is mainly acicular α/α′‐Ti, accompanied by a small amount of β‐phase grain boundaries. When the LED is increased to 58.33 J/mm3, the self‐corrosion potential of GO/TC4 sample reaches 0.345 V in 3.5 wt% NaCl solution, and the GO/TC458.33 nanocomposite exhibits the highest corrosion resistance. The results revealed that the corrosion products on the surface of the samples were mainly composed of a passivation film of TiO2 and a small amount of Al2O3.
Mean value formulas for classical solutions to uniformly parabolic equations in the divergence form with non‐smooth coefficients
Authors: Malagoli Emanuele , Pallara Diego , Polidoro Sergio
Published: July 2023

We prove surface and volume mean value formulas for classical solutions to uniformly parabolic equations in the divergence form with low regularity of the coefficients. We then use them to prove the parabolic strong maximum principle and the parabolic Harnack inequality. We emphasize that our results only rely on the classical theory, and our arguments follow the lines used in the original theory of harmonic functions. We provide two proofs relying on two different formulations of the divergence theorem, one stated for sets withalmostC1‐boundary, the other stated for sets with finite perimeter.
Maximum principle for stable operators
Authors: Grube Florian , Hensiek Thorben
Published: July 2023

We prove a weak maximum principle for nonlocal symmetric stable operators including the fractional Laplacian. The main focus of this work is on minimal regularity assumptions of the functions under consideration.
An extension of the complex–real (C–R) calculus to the bicomplex setting, with applications
Authors: Alpay Daniel , Diki Kamal , Vajiac Mihaela
Published: July 2023

In this paper, we extend notions of complex ‐calculus to the bicomplex setting and compare the bicomplex polyanalytic function theory to the classical complex case. Applications of this theory include two bicomplex least mean square algorithms, which extend classical real and complex least mean square algorithms.
The effect of a single SMARCA4 exon deletion on RNA splicing: Implications for variant classification
Authors: Byrjalsen Anna , Stoltze Ulrik , Mehrjouy Mana , Frederiksen Jane Hübertz , Bak Mads , Birkedal Ulf , Hasle Henrik , Gerdes Anne‐Marie , Schmiegelow Kjeld , Wadt Karin , Hansen Thomas van Overeem
Published: July 2023

Background

Exon deletions are generally considered pathogenic, particularly when they are located out of frame. Here, we describe a pediatric, female patient presenting with hypercalcemia and a small cell carcinoma of the ovary, hypercalcemic type, and carrying a germline de novo SMARCA4 exon 14 deletion.

Methods

The SMARCA4 deletion was identified by whole genome sequencing, and the effect on the RNA level was examined by gel‐ and capillary electrophoresis and nanopore sequencing.

Results

The deletion was in silico predicted to be truncating, but RNA analysis revealed two major transcripts with deletion of exon 14 alone or exon 14 through 15, where the latter was located in‐frame. Because the patient's phenotype matched that of other patients with pathogenic germline variants in SMARCA4, the deletion was classified as likely pathogenic.

Conclusion

We propose to include RNA analysis in classification of single‐exon deletions, especially if located outside of known functional domains, as this can identify any disparate effects on the RNA and DNA level, which may have implications for variant classification using the American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics guidelines.
Complex dynamics induced by multiple gestation delays in a Leslie–Gower‐type system with competitive interference
Authors: Ojha Archana , Thakur Nilesh Kumar
Published: July 2023

The dynamics of food consumption by higher trophic level is complicated as its availability, choice, and consequently their development. The top predator interference has a strong influence on the dynamic structure of the tritrophic food chain system. The proposed article deals with the characteristic features of a three‐tire modified Leslie–Gower model with a one‐prey two‐predator system with the assumption of multiple gestation delays. The intermediate predator of the food chain is taken as a specialist type, whereas the growth of top predator is assumed by sexual reproduction. Two different response functions named Monod–Haldane (M‐H) and Beddington–DeAngelis (B‐D) are considered for the modeling of system dynamics. The population densities of intermediate and top predators are assumed to be affected by two different gestation delays. The boundedness and positive equilibria and their stability conditions are examined theoretically for the delay‐free system. The local and global stability conditions of the delayed system are also determined. With the help of normal form theory and central manifold arguments, the properties of bifurcating periodic solutions are carried out. The numerical computation is performed to validate our analytical findings that show the different dynamical outcomes such as periodic and chaotic dynamics. The Hopf‐bifurcation scenario for different parameters of the model system is well studied. Further, the stability behavior of multiple delays for the different cases is investigated. The system shows chaotic behavior when the gestation delay of intermediate predators is large enough. It is also observed that the top predator density is highly fluctuating through the creation of chaos by the inclusion of time delay. Finally, the time delay destabilizing effect is noticed for three‐way interactions among prey, intermediate predator, and top predator, highlighting its significance in chaotic dynamics.
Do we really need two sessions?: The use of a structured interview as a trauma cue reactivity paradigm
Authors: DeGrace Sarah , Romero‐Sanchiz Pablo , Yakovenko Igor , Barrett Sean P. , Tibbo Philip , Cosman Tessa , Atasoy Pars , Stewart Sherry H.
Published: July 2023

Objectives

Derived from classical conditioning theory and rooted in motivational mechanisms, cue reactivity paradigms (CRPs) are used in addictions research to measure participants' propensities for substance‐relevant responses (e.g., craving) during exposure to substance‐relevant cues (e.g., drug paraphernalia). CRPs are also useful in PTSD‐addiction comorbidity research, allowing the study of affective and substance‐relevant responses to trauma cues. However, studies using traditional CRPs are time‐consuming with high attrition rates due to repeat testing. Thus, we sought to test whether a single session semi‐structured trauma interview could serve as a CRP in terms of eliciting theorized cue exposure effects on craving and affect measures.

Method

Fifty regular cannabis users with trauma histories provided detailed descriptions of their most traumatic lifetime experience, and a neutral experience, according to an established interview protocol. Linear mixed models examined the effect of cue type (trauma vs. neutral) on affective and craving responses.

Results

As hypothesized, the trauma interview elicited significantly greater cannabis craving (and alcohol craving among the drinkers), and, greater negative affect among those with more severe PTSD symptoms, compared to the neutral interview.

Conclusion

Results suggest an established semi‐structured interview may function effectively as a CRP for use in trauma and addictions research.
Social licence to cull: Examining scepticism toward lethal wildlife removal in cities
Authors: von Essen Erica , Redmalm David
Published: July 2023

The public may sometimes resist orders to cull wildlife, even when these pose a biosecurity threat. Managers and researchers desire to know why this is so.

Research overwhelmingly focuses on the role of the species in conditioning resistance but our approach also shows the circumstances, settings, people responsible and methods used that undermine the legitimacy of the cull.

We bring these together and use a social licence to operate (SLO) framework to demonstrate how support for wildlife culling in the context of biosecurity may be revoked. In the absence of SLO, resistance to wildlife culling can range from personal unease at seeing a cherished species or a neighbourhood fox being culled, to openly confronting the municipal hunter.

By interviewing (n = 32) and following (n = 4) municipal hunter in Swedish cities who cull wildlife individuals or populations deemed to pose a threat to public health, safety or other societal interests, we uncover parameters by which culling wildlife are deemed to be problematic: who performs the culling, when the culling is done, how it is done and where it is done. This leads us to the concept of necroaesthetics: taboo ways of taking animal lives. In a unique perspective, we apprehend two forms of resistance: one that hunters attribute to the public and that of hunters' own unease at performing certain culling interventions. While the public and municipal hunters disagree, they also have similar criteria for opposing culls.

We conclude by considering the future of theSLOof culling wildlife for biosecurity, including the subjective nature of its Revocation. This goes toward identifying parameters that make culls likely to produce controversy, hence granting some predictive value for managers in their planning.

Read the freePlain Language Summaryfor this article on the Journal blog.
Children's Oncology Group's 2023 blueprint for research: Developmental therapeutics
Authors: Fox Elizabeth , Parsons D. Williams , Weigel Brenda J. ,   the Developmental Therapeutics Committee
Published: July 2023

The Developmental Therapeutics Committee (DVL) identifies and develops new agents and treatment strategies for children/adolescents with cancer, through clinical and translational research. DVL has focused on evaluating the activity of targeted therapy and has evolved from trials with multiple histology strata to biomarker‐selected phase 2 trials. These trials have included single‐agent studies to evaluate agents such as cabozantinib in multi‐disease cohorts, to trametinib, larotrectinib, and lorvotuzumab in disease‐specific cohorts, as well as the pediatric Molecular Analysis for Therapy Choice (MATCH) study including multiple single agents targeted for biomarker‐selected pediatric tumors. The ongoing vision and direction of DVL is to support the disease committees of COG to develop novel agents and combinations to advance the care of children with cancer.
Out‐of‐plane compression properties and failure mechanism of gradient 3D woven composites
Authors: Liu Yang , Shan Zhongde , Liu Feng , Sun Zheng
Published: July 2023

Gradient three‐dimensional (3D) orthogonal preforms with low‐ and high‐density regions were manufactured through the flexible oriented 3D woven process (FO3DWP) at different fiber volume fractions and z‐yarn contents. The layer porosity distribution of preforms was regulated by modifying fiber tension and measured using micro‐computed tomography (micro‐CT) technology. After impregnation with epoxy resin, the out‐of‐plane compression properties of gradient 3D woven composites were evaluated. The results indicated that the out‐of‐plane compression strength could be improved by the gradient design. In particular, the gradient composite with a fiber volume fraction of 0.46 and z‐yarn volume fraction of 0.05 exhibited the highest compression strength at 470 MPa. Furthermore, failure morphologies were analyzed using micro‐fracture photographs and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The gradient design efficiently protected the interface between z‐directional fibers and the matrix by minimizing z‐yarn bending. However, the compression strength of 3D woven composites decreased as the z‐yarn content increased from 0.05 to 0.15, due to the increased bending of the z‐directional fibers during the compression test.
Confirmation of n‐Hexane as an Inert Co‐Solvent in the Production of Functionalized Silicon Nanoparticles from Reactive High‐Energy Ball Milling
Authors: Vanegas Julie P. , Reusch Amanda , Fink Mark J. , Mitchell Brian S.
Published: July 2023

Alkanes such as n‐hexane have been used as co‐solvents in the production of functionalized semiconductor nanoparticles from alkenes and alkynes using Reactive High Energy Ball Milling (RHEBM) under the assumption that they are non‐reactive under typical milling conditions. In this paper, a comparative study with two hydrocarbon solvents of comparable chain length, 1‐hexyne, and n‐hexane, and their milling products using three different commercially available silicon precursors, namely single crystal silicon wafers and polycrystalline particles having a nominal size of 4 µm and 1 mm, is reported. It is found that nanoparticle formation and surface functionalization in all the three silicon systems occurs only with 1‐hexyne; n‐hexane is non‐reactive and does not lead to appreciable functionalized nanoparticle formation under the conditions studied. Nanoparticles (where formed) and microparticle byproducts of appropriate samples are characterized by Transmission electronic microscope (TEM), Fourier transform infrared  (FTIR), Photoluminiscence spectroscopy (PL), Nuclear magnetic resonance 1H/13C NMR, and thermogravimetry TGA to separately confirm nanoparticle formation and surface functionalization.