bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of chicken chorioallantoic membrane model for tumor imaging and drug development: Promising findings
Authors: Wang Lizhen , Yan Junjie , XinyuWang  , Xu Yuping , Pan Donghui , Chen Chongyang , Shao Ying , Song Xiangjun , Qi Kezong , Yang Min , Tu Jian
Published: January 2024

Background

The chicken chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) model is a potential alternative to the mouse model based on the 3R principles. However, its value for determination of the in vivo behaviors of radiolabeled peptides through positron emission tomography (PET) imaging needed investigation. Herein, the chicken CAM tumor models were established, and their feasibility was evaluated for evaluating the imaging properties of radiolabeled peptides using a 68Ga‐labeled HER2 affibody.

Methods

Two human breast cancer cell lines were inoculated into chicken CAM and mice, respectively. The tumor‐targeting potential and pharmacokinetic profile of a 68Ga‐labeled affibody, 68Ga‐MZHER, in both tumor models were also determined.

Results

The tumor‐formation time in chicken CAM model was shorter than that of mouse model. The uptake values of human epithelial growth factor receptor‐2 (HER2)‐positive Bcap37 tumors in chicken CAM and mouse models were 5.36 ± 0.26% ID/g and 5.26 ± 0.43% ID/g at 30 min postinjection of 68Ga‐MZHER, respectively. At the same time points, the uptake values of HER2‐negative MDA‐MB‐231 tumors in the chicken CAM models and mouse models were 1.57 ± 0.15% ID/g and 1.67 ± 0.25% ID/g, respectively. Ex vivo biodistribution confirmed that more radioactivity accumulated in Bcap37 tumors than in MDA‐MD‐231 tumors in both CAM and mouse models.

Conclusion

In this study, the CAM tumor model was successfully prepared. The chicken CAM model is a novel tool for quickly determining the in vivo properties of radiolabeled peptides targeting biomarkers. It may be beneficial for early monitoring of the therapeutic effect of a new drug through PET imaging with specific peptides.
Strikingly High Activity of 15‐Lipoxygenase Towards Di‐Polyunsaturated Arachidonoyl/Adrenoyl‐Phosphatidylethanolamines Generates Peroxidation Signals of Ferroptotic Cell Death
Authors: Samovich Svetlana N. , Mikulska‐Ruminska Karolina , Dar Haider H. , Tyurina Yulia Y. , Tyurin Vladimir A. , Souryavong Austin B. , Kapralov Alexander A. , Amoscato Andrew A. , Beharier Ofer , Karumanchi S. Ananth , St Croix Claudette M. , Yang Xin , Holman Theodore R. , VanDemark Andrew P. , Sadovsky Yoel , Mallampalli Rama K. , Wenzel Sally E. , Gu Wei , Bunimovich Yuri L. , Bahar Ivet , Kagan Valerian E. , Bayir Hülya
Published: January 2024

The vast majority of membrane phospholipids (PLs) include two asymmetrically positioned fatty acyls: oxidizable polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) attached predominantly at the sn2 position, and non‐oxidizable saturated/monounsaturated acids (SFA/MUFA) localized at the sn1 position. The peroxidation of PUFA‐PLs, particularly sn2‐arachidonoyl(AA)‐ and sn2‐adrenoyl(AdA)‐containing phosphatidylethanolamines (PE), has been associated with the execution of ferroptosis, a program of regulated cell death. There is a minor subpopulation (≈1–2 mol %) of doubly PUFA‐acylated phospholipids (di‐PUFA‐PLs) whose role in ferroptosis remains enigmatic. Here we report that 15‐lipoxygenase (15LOX) exhibits unexpectedly high pro‐ferroptotic peroxidation activity towards di‐PUFA‐PEs. We revealed that peroxidation of several molecular species of di‐PUFA‐PEs occurred early in ferroptosis. Ferrostatin‐1, a typical ferroptosis inhibitor, effectively prevented peroxidation of di‐PUFA‐PEs. Furthermore, co‐incubation of cells with di‐AA‐PE and 15LOX produced PUFA‐PE peroxidation and induced ferroptotic death. The decreased contents of di‐PUFA‐PEs in ACSL4 KO A375 cells was associated with lower levels of di‐PUFA‐PE peroxidation and enhanced resistance to ferroptosis. Thus, di‐PUFA‐PE species are newly identified phospholipid peroxidation substrates and regulators of ferroptosis, representing a promising therapeutic target for many diseases related to ferroptotic death.
Spectroscopic and electrochemical characterizations of copper complexes with thionine, azure C and azure A
Authors: Bayındır Oğuz , Ersin Emre , Nazır Hasan , Atakol Orhan , Çelikkan Hüseyin
Published: January 2024

Structures held together by secondary interactions such as intramolecular or intermolecular hydrogen bonding, electrostatic and π–π interaction without covalent bonds can exhibit new properties such as high orientation, optoelectronics, biocompatibility and reversibility (self‐renewal). Recently, interest has been growing surrounding novel molecules fashioned through non‐covalent interactions. These molecules have garnered attention due to their significant roles in both physical and chemical applications. However, the formation of complexes between cationic phenothiazine derivative dyes, commonly employed in electrochemical studies, and diverse metal groups presents a challenge. Therefore, the existing literature contains only a scant number of studies concerning the formation of phenothiazine complexes with metal salts. In this study, metal complexes of thionine, azure C and azure A with copper(II) chloride were prepared using two steps: dissolving and then slow evaporation of dyes‐copper(II) chloride in acetonitrile. Besides the theoretical computations, thermal, spectral, electrochemical and fluorescence techniques were performed to determine the characteristics of the monoclinic crystals of Cu–dyes complexes. Cl− ion in the dyes and copper(II) chloride conjugated to form [CuCl3]−, then this anion electrostatically bound to cationic phenothiazine ring bond to be phenothiazine+[CuCl3]−. Cu–dye complexes showed interestingly high electron transportation. In addition, prepared Cu–dye complexes have a great potential to be used in optical and spectral applications with extraordinary behaviour of their spectral and fluorescence features.
Effect of incorporation of star‐shaped polycaprolactone on structure‐properties relationship of chitosan‐based networks via urethane/urea linkage
Authors: Amonkol Pennapa , Choochottiros Chantiga
Published: January 2024

A chitosan‐based network was fabricated using hexamethylene diisocyanate as a crosslinking agent. The effect was investigated of incorporating star‐shaped polycaprolactone (stPCL) into chitosan‐based networks (CS/stPCL), where the stPCL content varied from 10 to 50 wt%. Quantitative analyses of the urethane/urea linkages and of the stPCL content in the networks were determined based on curve fitting and Soxhlet extraction, respectively. The optimum weight ratio was 80:20 for CS and stPCL (80CS20stPCL), with the highest urethane/urea linkages and stPCL content in the network (30.73%). The compressive testing and rheological analysis indicated that incorporating stPCL enhanced the compressive strength and rheological properties of the chitosan‐based network. In addition, the 3‐(4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2‐yl)‐2,5‐diphenyl‐2H‐tetrazolium bromide assay of the CS/stPCL network had a cell viability percentage greater than 70%. The CS/stPCL network promoted the formation of an apatite layer on the surface, indicating that the CS/stPCL network could be a promising candidate for tissue engineering.
The room temperature highly sensitive ammonia gas sensor based on polyaniline and nitrogen doped graphene quantum dot coated flower‐like tungsten oxide composite
Authors: Huang Qing‐Yi , Liu Hui‐Ling , Hsu Wei‐Lun , Wu Tzong‐Ming
Published: January 2024

In this study, the newly synthesized polyaniline (PANI)/polyethylenimine modified nitrogen doped graphene quantum dot (PN‐GQD)/tungsten oxide (WO3) ternary composites were used as ammonia (NH3) gas sensor detected the NH3 at room temperature. Fourier transform infrared spectrometer, field‐emission scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and x‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy were applied to illustrate the chemical structure and morphology of the fabricated ternary composites. The NH3 gas‐sensing performances of PANI/PN‐GQD/WO3 composite sensor were determined in the concentration between 0.6 and 2.0 ppm at room temperature and the response value of the ternary composite sensor with an exposure of 1.0 ppm NH3 was 19.9, which was much better than those of PANI and PANI/WO3 sensors. Because their highly sensitive detection of NH3 ranging from the concentration between 0.6 and 2.0 ppm at room temperature, the PANI/PN‐GQD/WO3 composite sensor was confirmed to be extremely effective to detect the kidney or hepatic disease from the human breath. This ternary composite sensor with an exposure of 1.0 and 2.0 ppm NH3 also displayed extraordinary repeatability and selectivity at room temperature. According to these findings, this fabricated PANI/PN‐GQD/WO3 composite sensor will be an excellent gas‐sensing material to detect the kidney or hepatic disease from the human breath.
Information sculpting
Authors: Ruthven Ian
Published: January 2024

In this paper, I propose sculpting as an analogy for information use. I provide a background to the use of metaphors and analogies in Information Science, propose five analogical mappings between sculpting and information use, and then discuss the benefits to this analogy for thinking about how we use information.
Low latitude mesospheric clouds in a warmer climate
Authors: Dutta Deepashree , Sherwood Steven C. , Meissner Katrin J. , Jucker Martin
Published: January 2024

Observations show that mesospheric clouds (MCs) have been increasing in recent decades, presumably due to increased mesospheric water vapor which is mainly caused by greater methane (CH4) oxidation in the middle atmosphere. Past warm climates such as those of the early Cretaceous and Paleogene periods are thought to have had higher CH4 concentrations than present day, and future CH4 concentrations will also likely continue to rise. Here, idealized atmosphere chemistry‐climate model experiments forced with strong polar‐amplified sea‐surface temperatures and elevated carbon dioxide (CO2) and CH4 concentrations predict a substantial spreading of MCs to middle and low latitudes, well beyond regions where they are currently found. Sensitivity tests show that increased water vapor from CH4 oxidation and cooling from increased CO2 and CH4 concentrations create favorable conditions for cloud formation, producing MC fractions of 0.02 in the low latitudes and 0.1 in the mid‐latitudes in the Northern Hemisphere when CH4 concentration is 16× higher than pre‐industrial. Further increases in CH4 result in a monotonic increase in low‐ and mid‐latitude MCs. A uniform surface ocean warming, changes in polar amplification, or the solar constant do not significantly affect our results. While the appearance of these clouds is interesting, their ice and liquid water content is not sufficient to cause a significant radiative effect. On the other hand, dehydration of the mesosphere due to these low‐ and mid‐latitude MCs could potentially lead to a reduction in atomic hydrogen, thereby affecting mesospheric ozone concentration, although further study is required to confirm this.
Cover Image, Volume 18, Issue 1
Authors: Wu May , Khalid Yusra , Mitchell Jeff , Ha Miae
Published: January 2024

The cover image is based on the Original Article Measuring environmental and cost benefits of riparian buffers for drinking water production in a Midwest watershed by May Wu et al., https://doi.org/10.1002/bbb.2566.

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Einfluss der Querschnittshöhe auf die Biegezugfestigkeit von ultrahochfestem Beton
Authors: Schuller Jan , Leutbecher Torsten
Published: January 2024

Neben der zentrischen Zugfestigkeit definiert Eurocode 2 (EC2) eine sogenannte Biegezugfestigkeit. Die Biegezugfestigkeit hängt von der Betonzugfestigkeit, der Querschnittshöhe des Biegebauteils und von der Sprödigkeit des Betons ab. Bei der Ermittlung von Spannungen und Biegeverformungen im Gebrauchszustand darf nach EC2 von ungerissenen Querschnitten ausgegangen werden, wenn die Biegezugspannung die Biegezugfestigkeit nicht überschreitet. Für ultrahochfesten Beton (UHFB) fehlt bislang ein rechnerischer Ansatz zur Bestimmung der Biegezugfestigkeit. Daher werden in dieser Arbeit die Biegezugfestigkeit, die zentrische Zugfestigkeit, die Spaltzugfestigkeit und die Druckfestigkeit an faserfreiem Feinkorn‐ und Grobkorn‐UHFB bestimmt und zusammen mit Daten anderer Studien untereinander in Beziehung gesetzt. Es zeigt sich, dass Grobkorn‐UHFB bei vergleichbarer Druckfestigkeit tendenziell niedrigere Zug‐, Biegezug‐ und Spaltzugfestigkeiten als Feinkorn‐UHFB aufweist. Durch Wasserlagerung der Probekörper kann Eigenspannungen vorgebeugt werden, die bei Wärmebehandlung oder Trockenlagerung die messbare Zugfestigkeit mit zunehmender Querschnittsgröße stärker mindern. Zur rechnerischen Bestimmung der Biegezugfestigkeit von UHFB wird ein Ansatz vorgeschlagen, der eine lineare Abhängigkeit von der Querschnittshöhe vorsieht. Der Ansatz kann für Feinkorn‐ und Grobkorn‐UHFB angewendet werden. Die Ergebnisse der Arbeit sollen Eingang in die DAfStb‐Richtlinie „Ultrahochfester Beton“ finden.
Hypoxia‐responsive AIEgens for precise disease theranostics
Authors: Liu Dongfang , Liang Mengyun , Fan Aohua , Bing Wei , Qi Ji
Published: January 2024

Specific biomarker‐activatable probes have revolutionized theranostics, being beneficial for precision medicine. Hypoxia is a critical pathological characteristic prevalent in numerous major diseases such as cancers, cardiovascular disorders, inflammatory diseases, and acute ischemia. Aggregation‐induced emission luminogens (AIEgens) have emerged as a promising tool to tackle the biomedical issues. Of particular significance are the hypoxia‐responsive AIEgens, representing a kind of crucial probe capable of delicately sensing and responding to the hypoxic microenvironment, thereby enhancing the precision of disease diagnosis and treatment. In this review, we summarize the recent advances of hypoxia‐responsive AIEgens for varied biomedical applications. The hypoxia‐responsive structures based on AIEgens, such as azobenzene, nitrobenzene, and N‐oxide are presented, which are in response to the reduction property to bring about significant alternations in response spectra and/or fluorescence intensity. The bioapplications including imaging and therapy of tumor and ischemia diseases are discussed. Moreover, the review sheds light on the future challenges and prospects in this field. This review aims to provide comprehensive guidance and understanding into the development of activatable bioprobes, especially the hypoxia‐responsive AIEgens for improving the diagnosis and therapy outcome of related diseases.
A comprehensive framework for the sustainability indicators in the textile industry of developing countries
Authors: Fadara Taiwo Gbolarumi , Wong Kuan Yew , Zarei Hossein
Published: January 2024

Textile production in developing countries is known to be associated with significant environmental, social, and economic challenges. Existing research has mostly focused on singular aspects of sustainability, while no consensus exists on the importance and applicability of sustainability indicators. To address these gaps, this study utilized an integrated approach involving the Delphi method and the fuzzy best‐worst method (BWM) to develop a comprehensive framework by identifying and formulating sustainability indicators tailored for the textile industry in developing countries and assess their importance and applicability. Through three consecutive rounds of Delphi, a total of 64 sustainability indicators were identified (16 economic, 24 environmental, and 24 social indicators). Next, fuzzy BWM was employed to determine the importance and applicability of these indicators. The results show that (a) environmental indicators overall have higher applicability scores, (b) the top three critical indicators were raw material usage, operational costs, and fuel consumption, and (c) nearly half of the indicators (29/64) were deemed highly applicable, with 34.5% (10/29) of these falling under environmental, 34.5% (10/29) under economic, and 31% (9/29) under social dimensions. Finally, the utility of the framework is demonstrated through an empirical case study in a textile manufacturing company in Nigeria.
Incidence, clinical features, and survival outcomes of primary malignant lacrimal gland tumors: A population‐based analysis
Authors: He Lin‐feng , Zhang Jin‐di , Zhu Teng‐fei , Zhao Peng‐cheng , Mou Pei , Tang Shi‐yi
Published: January 2024

Background

Studies on the epidemiological information and prognosis of primary malignant lacrimal gland tumors (MLGTs) are rare for its low occurrence. The goal of our research was to investigate the epidemiological characteristics and survival outcomes of patients with MLGTs.

Methods

Incidence and demographic information of patients with MLGTs were collected from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database. To identify independent prognostic factors for disease‐specific survival (DSS) and overall survival (OS), univariate and multivariate Cox regression analysis were performed.

Results

The overall incidence of primary MLGTs from 1975 to 2020 was 0.413/1,000,000 (according to the 2000 American standard population), with a steadily increasing incidence over years. A total of 964 patients with primary MLGTs were diagnosed, with an average age of 59.3 years. Of these, 53.2% were aged ≥60 years, 57.4% were female, and 77.1% were whites. Multivariate Cox regression analysis demonstrated that year of diagnosis, age, sex, histological type, SEER stage, surgery, and chemotherapy were independent prognostic factors of DSS or OS.

Conclusions

Although primary MLGT is rare, its incidence has steadily increased in the past 46 years, and surgery was related to a better prognosis.
A metagenomic survey of bacterial communities from kurut: The fermented cow milk in Kyrgyzstan
Authors: Yegin Zeynep , Mamatova Zhanylbubu , Yurt Mediha Nur Zafer , Tasbasi Behiye Busra , Acar Elif Esma , Ucak Samet , Süleymanoğlu Ali Anıl , Aydin Ali , Ozalp Veli Cengiz , Sudagidan Mert
Published: January 2024

Kurut is a traditional dry dairy product mostly consumed in Central Asia. In this study, the distribution of the dominant bacteria present in kurut samples (n=84) originated from seven (Chuy, Issyk‐Kul, Talas, Naryn, Jalal‐Abad, Osh, and Batken) regions in Kyrgyzstan were analyzed with Illumina iSeq100 platform. The dominant phylum detected was Firmicutes followed by Proteobacteria, Actinobacteria, Cyanobacteria/Chloroplast, and Tenericutes. The most abundant family detected was Lactobacillaceae followed by Streptococcaceae, Enterococcaceae, Chloroplast, and Leuconostocaceae. At the genus level, Lactobacillus was the predominant one in samples and Streptococcus, Enterococcus, Lactococcus, and Streptophyta followed this. Further comprehensive characterization analyses in kurut samples may have potential applications both in industrial starter culture developments and also future therapeutic approaches based on potential strains with probiotic properties.
Heterochiral modifications enhance robustness and function of DNA in living human cells
Authors: Mallette Tracy L. , Lidke Diane S. , Lakin Matthew R.
Published: January 2024

Oligonucleotide therapeutics are becoming increasingly important as more are approved by the FDA, both for treatment and vaccination. Similarly, dynamic DNA nanotechnology is a promising technique that can be used to sense exogenous input molecules or endogenous biomarkers and integrate the results of multiple sensing reactions in situ via a programmed cascade of reactions. The combination of these two technologies could be highly impactful in biomedicine by enabling smart oligonucleotide therapeutics that can autonomously sense and respond to a disease state. A particular challenge, however, is the limited lifetime of standard nucleic acid components in living cells and organisms due to degradation by endogenous nucleases. In this work, we address this challenge by incorporating mirror‐image, ʟ‐DNA nucleotides to produce heterochiral “gapmers”. We use dynamic DNA nanotechnology to show that these modifications keep the oligonucleotide intact in living human cells for longer than an unmodified strand. To this end, we used a sequential transfection protocol for delivering multiple nucleic acids into living human cells while providing enhanced confidence that subsequent interactions are actually occurring within the cells. Taken together, this work advances the state of the art of ʟ‐nucleic acid protection of oligonucleotides and DNA circuitry for applications in vivo.
Genomic heterogeneity at baseline is associated with T790M resistance mutations in EGFR‐mutated lung cancer treated with the first‐/second‐generation tyrosine kinase inhibitors
Authors: Menzel Michael , Kirchner Martina , Kluck Klaus , Ball Markus , Beck Susanne , Allgäuer Michael , Assmann Christin , Schnorbach Johannes , Volckmar Anna‐Lena , Tay Timothy Kwang Yong , Goldschmid Hannah , Tan Daniel SW , Thomas Michael , Kazdal Daniel , Budczies Jan , Stenzinger Albrecht , Christopoulos Petros
Published: January 2024

This study analyzed whether extended molecular profiling can predict the development of epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) gene T790M mutation, which is the most frequent resistance alteration in non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) after treatment with the first‐/second‐generation (1G/2G) EGFR inhibitors (tyrosine kinase inhibitors [TKIs]), but only weakly associated with clinical characteristics. Whole exome sequencing (WES) was performed on pretreatment tumor tissue with matched normal samples from NSCLC patients with (n = 25, detected in tissue or blood rebiopsies) or without (n = 14, negative tissue rebiopsies only) subsequent EGFR p.T790M mutation after treatment with 1G/2G EGFR TKI. Several complex genetic biomarkers were assessed using bioinformatic methods. After treatment with first‐line afatinib (44%) or erlotinib/gefitinib (56%), median progression‐free survival and overall survival were 12.1 and 33.7 months, respectively. Clinical and tumor genetic characteristics, including age (median, 66 years), sex (74% female), smoking (69% never/light smokers), EGFR mutation type (72% exon 19 deletions), and TP53 mutations (41%) were not significantly associated with T790M mutation (p > 0.05). By contrast, complex biomarkers including tumor mutational burden, the clock‐like mutation signature SBS1 + 5, tumor ploidy, and markers of subclonality including mutant‐allele tumor heterogeneity, subclonal copy number changes, and median tumor‐adjusted variant allele frequency were significantly higher at baseline in tumors with subsequent T790M mutation (all p < 0.05). Each marker alone could predict subsequent development of T790M with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.72–0.77, but the small number of cases did not allow confirmation of better performance for biomarker combinations in leave‐one‐out cross‐validated logistic regression (AUC 0.69, 95% confidence interval: 0.50–0.87). Extended molecular profiling with WES at initial diagnosis reveals several complex biomarkers associated with subsequent development of T790M resistance mutation in NSCLC patients receiving first‐/second‐generation TKIs as the first‐line therapy. Larger prospective studies will be necessary to define a forecasting model.
Factors affecting the nesting success of Swainson's Thrush (Catharus ustulatus) along an elevational gradient
Authors: Deckel Sarah C. , DeLuca William V. , Gerson Alexander R. , King David I.
Published: January 2024

Montane birds experience a range of challenges that may limit their breeding success, including nest predation and severe climactic conditions. The continuing effects of climate change are causing shifts in biotic and abiotic factors that may compound these threats to montane bird species. In northeastern montane forests, many bird species are shifting downslope, potentially as the result of increased precipitation and temperature at higher elevations. Although lower elevations might be more favorable in terms of climactic conditions, nest predation is higher at lower elevations. Thus, montane birds might be faced with the opposing pressures of adverse climactic conditions at higher elevations and increased predation at lower elevations. We monitored nests of Swainson's Thrush (Catharus ustulatus) along an elevation gradient in the White Mountain National Forest in New Hampshire in 2016, 2018, 2019, and 2021 to examine the effect of biotic and abiotic factors on daily nest survival rate (DSR). Linear time explained the most variation of DSR in AICc model comparison, indicating that DSR decreases across the breeding season. Rain intensity (mm/h) had a weak negative effect on DSR, indicating that heavier rain per hour decreases Swainson's Thrush DSR. Moreover, we found some support for a negative interaction effect of elevation in conjunction with minimum daily temperature: DSR of Swainson's Thrush nests at low elevations (281 m) increased with increasing minimum daily temperatures and decreased at high elevations with increasing minimum daily temperatures. Our results suggest nesting survival of montane breeding birds may be at risk as heavier precipitation events become more frequent and intense due to the changing climate and raises the possibility that other passerine species could be at risk in this system.
Photographic documentation of melanism in bobcats (Lynx rufus) in the Greater Everglades
Authors: Branney Aidan B. , Abernathy Heather N. , Conner L. Mike , Garrison Elina , Cherry Michael J.
Published: January 2024

We document the presence of bobcats (Lynx rufus) that demonstrate melanism in the Greater Everglades. The South Florida landscape is driven by a myriad of disturbance regimes particularly that of short fire intervals. We monitored 180 camera traps for 3 years and obtained 9503 photographs of bobcats 25 (<0.5%) of these detections included melanistic individuals. Our observations and historical accounts suggest melanism is a phenotype that persists, albeit it at an exceedingly low frequency, in bobcats in the region. While we do not know if the expression of melanism conferred a fitness benefit in our system, the vegetation structure that was characterized by frequently burned uplands and low‐light and densely vegetated swamps produced conditions that may render a benefit from melanism through enhanced crypsis. The investigation of rare phenomenon in ecology is important yet difficult within a given field study, but reporting novel observations, like melanism in bobcats, allows for science to gain insight across studies that would not be otherwise possible.
Parent–child correlation in energy and macronutrient intakes: A meta‐analysis and systematic review
Authors: Teymoori Farshad , Norouzzadeh Mostafa , Farhadnejad Hossein , Jahromi Mitra Kazemi , Ahmadirad Hamid , Saber Niloufar , Akbarzadeh Mahdi , Zarkesh Maryam , Daneshpour Maryam S. , Mirmiran Parvin , Vafa Mohammadreza
Published: January 2024

In the current study, we aimed to review the evidence from twin and family‐based studies that have assessed the familial similarity in intakes of energy and macronutrients among various parent–child pairs. The online literature databases, including Web of Science, PubMed, and Scopus, were searched up to December 2022 to find potentially eligible studies. We converted Pearson's, Spearman's, or intra‐class correlation coefficients to z's using Fisher's z transformation to obtain approximate normality and then calculated a mean and standard error (SE) of transformed correlation weighted by the sample sizes in the studies. We reported pooled r and 95% CI as our final results in five groups, including parent–child, mother–daughter, mother–son, father–daughter, and father–son. Twenty‐one eligible studies were included in this meta‐analysis, in which the sample size ranged from 33 and 4310. Our analysis showed that family resemblance in the intake of energy and macronutrients in various parent–offspring pairs was weak to moderate which could be different based on family pairs, nutrients, and studies. The highest similarity in dietary intakes was observed among the mother–daughter pair, which was for carbohydrate and protein intake, respectively. The lowest correlations in dietary intakes were found between mother–son or father–son pairs. Our meta‐analysis suggested that family similarity for intakes of energy and macronutrients was not strong in parent–child pairs. The highest correlation in dietary intake was mostly found in mother–daughter pairs. The weak similarities in dietary intake among parent–child pairs indicate the noticeable effect of the environment outside the family on individuals' dietary choices.
A labour of love: Cross‐cultural research collaboration between Australia and Indonesia
Authors: Warman Russell , Watson Phillipa , (Amy) Lin Chia Chin , Allen Pam , Beazley Harriot , Junaidi Ahmad , Newland Jamee , Harris Rebecca
Published: January 2024

Novel combinations of global conditions, issues under investigation and research alliances require constant reassessment of how to conduct cross‐cultural research. Here we recount an exploratory investigation considering cross‐cultural research between Australian and Indonesian researchers. This paper sets out a range of considerations for practitioners of cross‐cultural research between our two countries. This investigation supports intentions to develop trans‐disciplinary climate change adaptation research but is applicable across multiple research topics and disciplines. We engaged a small multi‐disciplinary mix of researchers, from both countries, conducted two initial focus groups, and subsequently involved participants in drafting of this paper as an exploration of how being cross cultural could manifest. We highlight that cross‐cultural collaborations occur in environments of both cultural differences and power differences. Four main strategies emerged for dealing with the challenges (or opportunities): working respectfully, being reflective of cross‐cultural research practice, being flexible, and learning about culture. Overarching these strategies, we found cross‐cultural research requires considerable extra (long term) effort to tackle and that this is sustained by researchers' intrinsic motives to care for people and place, making this type of research a distinctive labour of love. Finally, we found similarities between cross‐cultural research and climate change adaptation research (even when conducted within one country) where both endeavours call for boundaries of places, cultures and disciplines to be crossed in order to effectively engage with complex topics and environments. Negotiating the liminalities here often defies set formulas and requires a willingness to engage with and ‘muddle through’ the messiness. Our findings will be of value to those undertaking cross‐cultural research across a wide range of issues.
Participatory governance in public health emergencies: A case study of Quanzhou from a legal perspective
Authors: Wenxiang Zhang
Published: January 2024

During public health emergencies, the work of prevention and control must be normalised, and coordination between economic development and epidemic prevention is crucial. However, in China, there is a lack of research on participatory governance in public health emergencies, particularly from a legal perspective. Existing studies are insufficient in terms of using legal texts and exploring legal governance in a normative sense, and there is an inadequate in‐depth exploration of issues such as the legitimacy, path, motivation, and other aspects of participation. This article addresses these gaps by analysing the issues of participatory governance in public health emergencies from a legal perspective, using practical cases as examples. The research has shown that there are significant differences among the three types of organisations regarding their internal motivation, external incentives, and legal basis, and therefore it is necessary to distinguish different participation paths. Finally, we propose several measures to promote the active and sustained participation of organisation in governance, including cultivating the ability of organisations, emphasising organizational demands, seeking consensus, strengthening the guiding role of legislation, and broadening the channels of engagement.
The uterocervical angle‐cervical length ratio: A promising predictor of preterm birth?
Authors: Movahedi Minoo , Goharian Maryam , Rasti Sina , Zarean Elaheh , Tarrahi Mohammad Javad , Shahshahan Zahra
Published: January 2024

Objective

To predict spontaneous preterm birth (sPTB) (labor before 37 weeks of pregnancy) in low‐risk singleton pregnancies during the second trimester, using ultrasound markers: uterocervical angle (UCA) and cervical length (CL).

Methods

In a prospective observational cohort study, we followed primigravid women with singleton pregnancies without known risk factors for sPTB from 16+0–23+6 weeks of pregnancy until birth. Transvaginal ultrasonography on admission revealed the UCA and CL, and maternal history was obtained from submitted patient profiles. Logistic regression models disclosed significant predictive variables, and receiver operating curves (ROCs) demonstrated optimal cut‐offs and test accuracy indices. Predictive functions of variables were compared using positive and negative likelihood ratios.

Results

In a sample of 357 participants, 41 (11.5%) experienced sPTB. UCA and CL were significantly associated with sPTB when adjusting for other variables (adjusted odds ratio: UCA 1.05, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.02–1.07 and CL 0.82, 95% CI 0.75–0.90). Optimal cut‐offs were estimated to be 106° and 33 mm for UCA and CL, respectively. We devised the novel index UCA/CL with an area under the ROC of 0.781 (95% CI 0.734–0.823), cut‐off = 3.09°/mm, and improved likelihood ratios (positive: 3.18, 2.47, and 4.22; negative: 0.63, 0.52, and 0.51 for UCA, CL, and UCA/CL, respectively).

Conclusion

The second‐trimester UCA/CL was found to be a promising index to predict sPTB in low‐risk singleton pregnancies. Further multicenter studies may generalize this conclusion to other gestational ages or risk groups and make it more comprehensive by considering other risk factors.
Novel BRAF N581S mutation in mantle cell lymphoma
Authors: Hariharan Nisha , Bedi Davsheen , Choi Michael Y. , Wang Huan‐You , Heyman Benjamin M.
Published: January 2024

BRAF mutations are associated with a small number of hematologic malignancies, including hairy cell leukemia and histiocytic disorders. In addition, BRAF mutations have also been detected in low frequency in other B‐cell lymphomas, such as chronic lymphocytic leukemia and diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma, but never in mantle cell lymphoma (MCL). We present a case of a 69‐year‐old female with classic MCL harboring a BRAFN581S mutation. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of any BRAF mutation in MCL.
Novel pyrazole‐biphenyl‐carboxamides for SARS‐CoV2 entry‐level restriction and microbial infections
Authors: Samy Shanmugha , Dangate Milind Shrinivas , Alagumuthu Manikandan
Published: January 2024

Microbial diseases including viral infection are big issues globally. Effective medicinal discovery for them is the need for the day. In this study, we report pyrazole‐biphenyl‐carboxamides (4a‐l) validated for their SARS‐CoV2 entry‐level restriction effect over studying the protein–protein interaction of SARS‐CoV2 with human ACE protein. Their extended antimicrobial properties were also evaluated. Online and offline software tools predicted MD simulation and ADMET druggability in silico. The antimicrobial efficacy of all compounds was also evaluated against Gram+ve Streptococcus pneumoniae (MTCC 1936), Staphylococcus aureus (MTCC 737) and Gram‐ve Escherichia coli (MTCC 443), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (MTCC 424) (bacteria). In the results, compounds 4g and 4i were evenly active against both bacteria at a low concentration range (MIC: 1.00 to 9.5 μg/mL) and displayed lesser toxicity to tested mammalian cells (EC100 = 75 μg/mL). Furthermore, it was able to kill metabolically inactive bacterial cells and eradicate established biofilms of Methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). Both the compounds inhibited DNA gyrase well with an IC50 0.25 μM (96% relative activity) and 0.52 μM (97% relative activity) respectively. Compounds (4a‐l) showed restrictive efficiency of SARS‐CoV2 spike protein (SC2SP) and human angiotensin‐converting enzyme 2 (hACE2) entry‐level association in COVID‐19 in silico. To assess this ability, firstly, we identified the crucial amino acid residues involved in the interface of SARS‐CoV‐2 and hACE2 virtually. We recognized the ability of 4a‐l binding to the binding interface to SARS‐CoV2; thus, the interaction of SC2SP‐hACE2 was effectively inhibited.
Expansion of winter ENSO‐associated rainfall affected area in Southeast Asia under warmer climate
Authors: Leong Minqi , Juneng Liew , Tangang Fredolin , Salimun Ester
Published: January 2024

This paper examines the changes of El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) associated winter rainfall relationship in Southeast Asia (SEA) in the historical period (1981–2010) and future period (2071–2100) based on the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 6 (CMIP6) models simulations. Twenty general circulation models (GCMs) are chosen from the Scenario Model Intercomparison Project (ScenarioMIP) highest emission scenario—Shared Socioeconomic Pathway (SSP) 5‐8.5. This study focuses only on the GCMs that have been able to replicate the consistent associated patterns observed, referred to as “teleconnection‐consistent models” (TCMs). During historical period, ENSO has significant negative association with SEA winter rainfall, particularly over Indochina mainland, Maritime Continent (MC) and northern Borneo. The significant negative‐associated teleconnection affected area has increased under future climate, particularly over southern part of South China Sea (SCS). The weakening of south westerlies at Western North Pacific (WNP) centred near 20°N reduces the moisture transport from Indochina into south of China, increase the negative correlated affected area in the SEA regions above equator. The northeasterlies/easterlies that prevailed from the WNP anticyclone (AC) brings significant moisture flux into southern Borneo, causing increment of significant positive‐associated moisture flux convergence to that region. The weakening of upward motion in TCM results in less warm and moist air rising over SEA MC, reducing the rainfall availability. The 1° eastward expansion of WC downward branch eastern edge leads to suppression of convective activities, increasing the dry affected area. The results suggest that the ENSO has a larger influence on the negative‐associated SEA rainfall and atmospheric circulation in the December–January–February (DJF) late‐21st century when compared to the 1980–2010.
Synthesis of isobutyl cinnamate based on DESs catalyst: Optimization and kinetics
Authors: Xu Jumei , Zhao Ningrui , Zeng Zuoxiang , Xue Weilan
Published: January 2024

In this work, the optimum process conditions and kinetics of the green synthesis of isobutyl cinnamate using deep eutectic solvents (DESs) as catalysts were investigated. Isobutyl cinnamate is a spice with low toxicity and is widely used in the food industry. However, there is a lack of reports on its green synthesis. Three DESs were prepared by adjusting the mixing ratio of choline chloride (ChCl) and p‐toluenesulfonic acid (PTSA). Response surface methodology with Box‐Behnken design (RSM‐BBD) was used to optimize the process parameters of the esterification of cinnamic acid with isobutanol. The effects of catalyst loading, stirring speed, cinnamic acid/isobutanol molar ratio, and temperature on the conversion of cinnamic acid over time were evaluated. Using ChCl‐PTSA as a catalyst, the kinetics data and chemical equilibrium constants of the esterification were determined at a temperature range of 353.15–383.15 K. The pseudo‐homogeneous (PH) model based on activity was then adopted to describe the kinetics of the reaction, and the relative deviations between the experimental values and the calculated ones by PH model are less than 5.5%. Thermodynamic data (ΔrH0, ΔrS0, ΔrG0) for the esterification reaction was calculated as well. In addition, the results of six consecutive cycles of the catalyst showed that ChCl‐PTSA has good stability and recyclability.
Pulling together: Does supplier digital transformation affect customer risk‐taking capability?
Authors: Liu Qinghan , Ren Zongqiang , Liu Qiuzi
Published: January 2024

This study explores the impact of supplier digital transformation on customer risk‐taking capability and further explores its impact mechanism in China using A‐share listed companies from 2010 to 2020. The empirical results indicate that the supplier digital transformation mechanism test has a significant and positive impact on the risk‐taking capability of customers. They reveal that supplier digital transformation improves the risk‐taking capability of customers by easing customer financing constraints and driving customer product innovation. Additionally, the results of the heterogeneity test indicate that supply chain relationships play a moderating role in the impact of supplier digital transformation on customer risk‐taking.
Three‐fourths‐mode substrate‐integrated waveguide for tri‐band bandpass filter
Authors: Weng Lin‐Yang , Tu Wen‐Hua
Published: January 2024

In this letter, a novel three‐fourths‐mode substrate‐integrated waveguide (TFMSIW) single‐band bandpass filter (BPF), and a TFMSIW tri‐band BPF are proposed for the first time. The resonant modes of a TFMSIW cavity are analyzed first to show their unload quality factors and both electric and magnetic field distributions. Based on the characteristics of the TFMSIW cavities, a single‐band BPF prototype is introduced. Moreover, with multiple coupling windows for respective passbands, a further application to tri‐band BPFs is studied. Consequently, two cases of tri‐band BPF are designed, fabricated, and tested for demonstration.
Machine learning for bending behavior of sandwich beams with 3D‐printed core and natural fiber‐reinforced composite face sheets
Authors: Kamarian Saeed , Teimouri Amir , Alinia Maysam , Saber‐Samandari Saeed , Song Jung‐il
Published: January 2024

The primary objective of this study was to demonstrate the effectiveness of machine learning (ML) in predicting the mechanical behavior of sandwich structures. To achieve this, the study focused on assessing the bending response of environmentally friendly sandwich beams consisting of auxetic cores made from polylactic acid (PLA) and flax/epoxy composite face sheets reinforced with halloysite nanotubes (HNTs). Two ML techniques, specifically shallow neural networks (SNNs) and deep neural networks (DNNs), were employed to predict the specific energy absorption (SEA) and load‐deflection curves of these sandwich beams, respectively. The key design parameters under consideration included the HNT content in the face sheets and three geometric characteristics of the auxetic cells. Subsequently, 16 distinct specimens were meticulously designed for manufacturing, following Taguchi's experimental design principles. The cores of the structures were produced using 3D printing techniques, while the face sheets were meticulously fabricated using a hand layup process. These prepared specimens were then subjected to a three‐point bending test, and the collected data were employed to train the aforementioned neural networks. The outcomes of this study revealed that an SNN with a single hidden layer comprising seven neurons effectively predicted the SEA of the structures across various design parameter values. Additionally, the remarkable performance of a DNN, consisting of five hidden layers with 128, 64, 32, 16, and 8 units, respectively, was demonstrated by comparing its predicted results with the experimental results for a randomly designed sandwich beam.

Highlights

ML techniques were used for bending behavior of sandwich beams.

The beams were made of flax/epoxy/HNT face sheets and 3D‐printed auxetic core.

SNN was successfully employed to predict the SEA of the structures.

DNN effectively predicted the load‐deflection curves.

HNT content and auxetic cells significantly impacted the bending properties.
Ballistic and Charpy impact performance of basalt fiber reinforced polymer composites
Authors: Yeter Eyüp , Deniz Muhammet , Doğru Mehmet Hanifi , Göv İbrahim
Published: January 2024

In this study, the behavior of composite material produced using basalt, a natural fabric, under ballistic and Charpy impact loads was investigated. The damage resistance of target plates under ballistic loads is an important design parameter in the structures that will be exposed to these loads. Cross‐ply fiber‐reinforced composite plates were produced with different numbers of layers. The composite specimens are produced using the vacuum infusion method, cross‐ply laminated with 3, 6, 9, and 12 layers ([0/90]3, [0/90]6, [0/90]9, and [0/90]12). Carbon/Epoxy specimens were also produced in identical sequences to be used as comparison material. The study aimed to understand the absorbed energy under ballistic loads and the required energy level under the Charpy impact loads of Basalt/Epoxy composite specimens with different thicknesses. Ballistic loads are applied to the specimens using a test set‐up including the sample holder mechanism and a firing system. Charpy impact tests were conducted using a standard test machine. According to the results, for 12‐layer specimens, the residual velocity difference between Basalt/Epoxy and Carbon/Epoxy is approximately 1.5 times. For the Basalt/Epoxy plate, increasing number of layers from 3 to 12 increases the amount of energy absorbed approximately 13 times. Although this increase is approximately 19 times for the Carbon/epoxy plate, when Basalt/Epoxy and Carbon/Epoxy plates are compared, Basalt/Epoxy absorbs more energy for all layer numbers. For the Charpy impact cases, it has been observed that Basalt/Epoxy absorbs approximately 34% more energy for flat wise impact and approximately 24% more energy for edgewise impact.

Highlights

The behavior of composite material produced using basalt, a natural fabric.

Cross‐ply fiber‐reinforced composite plates.

Effect of different number of layers considered.

The damage resistance of target plates under ballistic loads.

Comparison of basalt and carbon‐reinforced composites.
Dynamic mechanical properties of graphene and carbon fabric‐reinforced epoxy nanocomposites
Authors: Shivakumar Hadimani , Gurumurthy G. D. , Yogananda G. S. , Mahesh T. S. , Bommegowda K. B.
Published: January 2024

The present work attempts to estimate the impact of graphene and carbon fabric on the dynamic‐mechanical properties of epoxy nanocomposites with different weight percentages. By applying an oscillatory force to a composite, its response is measured, and by calculating the viscosity and the stiffness in relation to the temperature, time, or frequency, valuable information can be realized. It helps to identify “thermal transitions” occurring in polymers. The complex modulus shows the resistance of the composites to deformation caused by viscous and elastic effects. Though dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) is used for the depiction of temperature‐dependent viscoelastic properties, in this investigation, the objectives were multi‐fold. It is aimed at understanding the role of carbon fabric and the incorporation of 1 wt% of graphene nanoplatelet (GNP) in the epoxy matrix, and the effect of 0.5 to 5 wt% of GNP. The dynamic mechanical properties, including storage modulus, loss modulus, and damping factor, are examined across a temperature range of 25–250°C. Based on the findings, the storage modulus of the composites exhibits a range between 2000 and 9000 MPa. Notably, the epoxy composite containing 1 wt% GNP filler demonstrates the highest storage modulus. The details of mechanisms involved in DMA measurement are schematically summarized.

Highlights

Epoxy‐GNP and Epoxy‐GNP‐carbon fabric composites were fabricated.

Storage modulus of composites does not show much dependence on the GNP.

An increase in storage modulus by 05 times is observed in the ECG1 composite.

The loss modulus of EC and EG1 composite is much higher.