bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lipid composition micronutrient and cellular antioxidant properties of borage seed oil from eight provinces in China
Authors: Cui Ru , You Yue , Chen Chuang , Zhang Wenjing , Zhang Yiren , Li Yun , Zhang Le , Zhang Hui , Jin Qingzhe , Wu Gangcheng , Wang Xingguo
Published: March 2024

Borage seed oil (BSO; Borago officinalis L.) has great medicinal and nutritional potential owing to its bioactive components. In this study, we compared the lipid composition, micronutrient content, free radical scavenging capacities, and cellular antioxidant and antiproliferative activities of BSO from eight provinces in China. The Gansu sample had the highest levels of γ‐linolenic acid, accounting for 18.66%. We detected more than 17 triacylglycerols in BSO. Among micronutrients, δ‐tocopherol and Δ5‐avenasterol were the main components of tocopherol and phytosterol, respectively. The highest cellular antioxidant activity values were found in the Shanxi and Gansu samples; the concentration cytotoxicity 50% values were higher than 200 mg/mL, and the median effective dose ranged from 18.34 ± 0.52 to 70.65 ± 1.76 mg/mL. In addition, we tested the free radical scavenging capacity of BSO and found significant differences in antioxidant capacity between samples from different regions, and the Gansu sample had a better antioxidant capacity.
Importance of emulsifiers in chocolate industry: Effect on structure, machinability, and quality of intermediate and final products
Authors: Toker Omer Said , Ozonuk Seyma , Gunes Recep , Icyer Necattin Cihat , Rasouli Haniyeh Pirouizan , Konar Nevzat , Palabiyik Ibrahim , Altop Cengiz
Published: March 2024

Many parameters are effective in obtaining optimum rheological and sensory properties in chocolate. Lecithin, ammonium phosphatides (AMP), and less commonly glycerol monopalmitate (GMP) are typically used as emulsifiers to achieve the desired viscosity in chocolate. In addition to these emulsifiers, polyglycerol polyricinoleate (PGPR) is used as a complement to regulate the yield value in chocolate. In this review, the properties of these additives, their interactions with each other, and the mechanism of their structural improvement functions in chocolate production are discussed. Depending on the type and amount of emulsifier, adjustments can be made to the flow behavior of molten chocolate, textural, melting character, tempering and tempering index, color and other properties of the chocolate. In addition to the use of emulsifiers, other parameters such as particle size distribution, moisture and fat content should also be taken into account, which can affect all these quality parameters. In this regard, the correct selection of the type of emulsifiers used in chocolate production and their combined usage rates will ensure that the demands of producers and consumers are met.
Copper Oxide Anchored Carbon Nanofibers: A Versatile Platform for Multiplex Detection of Antibiotics, Heavy Metals and Pesticides
Authors: Mishra Smriti , Budania Yashmeen , Tyagi Ankit , Pratap Singh Sheelendra , Kumar Pradip , Singh Shiv
Published: March 2024

Electrochemical sensors offer promising prospects for real–time pollutant monitoring. In this study, copper oxide–dispersed graphitic carbon nanofibers (CuO−CNFs) grown via chemical vapour deposition were employed as a robust platform for detecting a variety of environmental pollutants. This array–based sensor adeptly identifies three different classes of analytes, i. e., antibiotics (chloramphenicol (CP) and tylosin tartrate (TT)), heavy metals (cadmium (Cd) and lead (Pb)), and pesticides (quinalphos (QP) and imidacloprid (IP)). Electron collection is facilitated by a glassy carbon electrode, while various physico–electrochemical methods delve into the properties of CuO−CNFs. The CuO−CNF–modified GCE array rapidly discerns (<15 sec) a broad linear range: 1–20 ppm for CP, 1–13.33 ppm for TT, 0.66–11.66 ppm for Cd, 20–33.33 ppm for Pb, 1.6–11.6 ppm for QP, and 5–25 ppm for IP, boasting quantification limits of 1.0, 1.0, 0.66, 20.0, 1.6, and 5.0 ppm for CP, TT, Cd, Pb, QP, and IP, respectively. Notably, this sensor achieves simultaneous identification of mixed analytes, including CP and TT, Cd and Pb, and QP and IP, within real tap water. Furthermore, the electrochemical sensor exhibits robustness; heightened sensitivity, selectivity, and stability; a swift response; and impressive reproducibility in detecting CP, TT, Cd, Pb, QP, and IP within aqueous samples. Consequently, this array–based electrochemical sensor has emerged as a rapid and simultaneous detection tool for diverse pollutant residues in surface and groundwater samples.
The perfect combination to win the competition: Bringing sustainability and customer experience together
Authors: Ünal Umut , Bağcı Rıfgı Buğra , Taşçıoğlu Mertcan
Published: March 2024

Understanding the connection between how consumers perceive sustainability and how they experience the offered products or services can make a big difference for companies to stay ahead of the competition. When companies work to make their products and services align with what their customers value, like being eco‐friendly and socially responsible, it may not only draw in new customers but also make the existing ones stick around. Using behavioral reasoning theory, we attempt to explore the impacts of perceived benefits and skepticism on attitude toward sustainability and the moderating role of customer experience on the relationship between these variables and loyalty. Findings (n = 660) showed that attitude toward sustainability mediates the relationship between perceived benefits, skepticism, and customer loyalty. Furthermore, our findings highlighted that customer experience moderates the relationship between attitude toward sustainability and loyalty. The details of the moderation analysis suggest that cognitive, affective, physical, and social experiences have a stronger effect than sensory experiences in reinforcing the impact of perceived benefits and attitude on consumer loyalty in a sustainability context. The article concludes with implications and research directions for further investigation.
Exploring the mechanisms of kaempferol in neuroprotection: Implications for neurological disorders
Authors: Nezhad Salari Amir Mohammad , Rasoulizadeh Zahra , Shabgah Arezoo Gowhari , Vakili‐Ghartavol Roghayyeh , Sargazi Ghasem , Gholizadeh Navashenaq Jamshid
Published: March 2024

Kaempferol, a flavonoid compound found in various fruits, vegetables, and medicinal plants, has garnered increasing attention due to its potential neuroprotective effects in neurological diseases. This research examines the existing literature concerning the involvement of kaempferol in neurological diseases, including stroke, Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, neuroblastoma/glioblastoma, spinal cord injury, neuropathic pain, and epilepsy. Numerous in vitro and in vivo investigations have illustrated that kaempferol possesses antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory, and antiapoptotic properties, contributing to its neuroprotective effects. Kaempferol has been shown to modulate key signaling pathways involved in neurodegeneration and neuroinflammation, such as the PI3K/Akt, MAPK/ERK, and NF‐κB pathways. Moreover, kaempferol exhibits potential therapeutic benefits by enhancing neuronal survival, attenuating oxidative stress, enhancing mitochondrial calcium channel activity, reducing neuroinflammation, promoting neurogenesis, and improving cognitive function. The evidence suggests that kaempferol holds promise as a natural compound for the prevention and treatment of neurological diseases. Further research is warranted to elucidate the underlying mechanisms of action, optimize dosage regimens, and evaluate the safety and efficacy of this intervention in human clinical trials, thereby contributing to the advancement of scientific knowledge in this field.
Keep your eye on…
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: March 2024

Safety of using ADHD therapeutic stimulants during pregnancy

Links between maternal autistic traits and adverse birth outcomes

New federal rules make it easier for all patients — including youth — to get methadone
Long‐term function of a novel autologous transcatheter pulmonary heart valve implant in an adult animal model
Authors: Kiekenap Jonathan , Sun Xiaolin , Hao Yimeng , Steitz Marvin , Breitenstein‐Attach Alexander , Emeis Jasper , Berger Felix , Schmitt Boris
Published: March 2024

Background

Current heart valve implants entail major disadvantages in the treatment for younger patients or those with congenital heart defects.

Aim

Evaluation of novel transcatheter pulmonary valve implant made from autologous pericardium with natural crosslinking agent in an in vitro setup and in vivo animal model

Methods

Valves were tested in a pulse duplicator according to ISO‐standard 5840. For in vivo studies computer tomography was performed to measure sheep's native pulmonary valve dimensions. Pericardium was harvested by thoracotomy, personalized implants were manufactured and deployed in pulmonary valve position of the same sheep. Every 3 months implant functionality was evaluated by intracardiac echocardiography, intracardiac pressure measurements and cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (cMRI). Implants were explanted for macroscopic and histological examination.

Results

In vitro experiments showed compliance with regulatory requirements in terms of valve opening and insufficiency. Five sheep successfully received an autologous valve implant. Two animals had to be euthanized due to trauma sustained in the stable. Long‐term valve function was excellent in three out of four animals with median implant cMRI regurgitation fraction of 9% (n = 4) at 3 months, 8% (n = 3) at 6, 8% (n = 3) at 9, 12% (n = 3) at 13, 8% (n = 2) at 17% and 8% (n = 2) at 20.5 months after implantation. Despite good adherence to neighboring tissue and endothelization, histological assessment revealed some signs of degeneration.

Conclusion

Transcatheter pulmonary valve implants showed promising function for up to 20.5 months encouraging research to further improve this approach.
Impact of preprocedural left ventricular systolic function on the safety and durability of percutaneous coronary intervention
Authors: Velagaleti Raghava S. , Harrell Camden , Michalski Justin , Lefèvre Thierry , Windecker Stephan , Slagboom Ton , Saito Shigeru , Koolen Jacques , Waksman Ron , Kandzari David E.
Published: March 2024

Background

Percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is considered less safe in patients with reduced ejection fraction (EF), an impression based on older data. Whether the safety and durability of contemporary PCI are different in patients with reduced EF compared with normal EF patients is unknown.

Methods

Patients from the BIOFLOW II, IV and V clinical trials were grouped as normal EF (≥50%) and reduced EF (30%–50%). Using multivariable logistic regression and cox proportional hazards regression, we determined relations of EF category with procedural safety (a composite of cardiac death, myocardial infarction, stroke and urgent coronary artery bypass grafting within 30 days of PCI) and target lesion failure (TLF; comprising cardiac death, target vessel myocardial infarction, target vessel revascularization within 1 year of PCI) respectively. In sensitivity analyses, we regrouped patients into EF < 45% and ≥55% and repeated the aforementioned analyses.

Results

In 1685 patients with normal EF (mean age 65 years; 27% women; mean EF 61%) and 259 with low EF (mean age 64 years; 17% women; mean EF 41%), 101 safety and 148 TLF events occurred. Compared with patients in the normal EF group, those with reduced EF had neither a statistically significant higher proportion of safety events, nor a higher multivariable‐adjusted risk for such events. Similarly, patients with reduced EF and normal EF did not differ in terms of TLF event proportions or multivariable‐adjusted risk for TLF. The results were similar in sensitivity analyses with EF groups redefined to create a 10% between‐group EF separation.

Conclusion

PCI safety and durability outcomes are similar in patients with mild‐moderately reduced EF and normal EF.
Successful heart transplantation from a COVID‐19‐positive donor: A clinical case report
Authors: Meidani Mohsen , Moradi Maryam , Ghiasvand Fereshteh , Alijani Neda
Published: March 2024

Key Clinical Message

Despite the acceptable results in patients receiving organs from COVID‐19‐positive donors, more extensive studies over a longer period are still needed for more accurate conclusions.

Organ transplantation is a major concern during the current COVID‐19 pandemic worldwide. The use of COVID‐19‐positive organ donors has raised widespread concerns in the field of transplantation. In this study, we characterized the outcome of a heart transplant from an organ donor positive for COVID‐19.
A 23‐year‐old patient with bilateral hypoplastic thumbs and toes: A case report
Authors: Hamsho Suaad , Sleiay Mouhammed , Alaswad Mohammed , Alsmodi Hasan , Al‐Hakeem Khaled
Published: March 2024

Key Clinical Message

However, it is noteworthy that certain patients with minor functional limitations in their hand may have experienced undiagnosed thumb hypoplasia during their childhood years. These individuals may have successfully adapted to their condition without seeking medical intervention and may express a preference for nonintervention (as in this case).

Thumb hypoplasia is a congenital underdevelopment of the thumb, accounting for 5%–15% of congenital hand disorders. It occurs equally among both genders and can affect both thumbs. The condition is categorized using Blauth's classification with Type I being the mildest form. We report a 23‐year‐old Syrian male presented with a bilateral restriction in opposition movement when using a pen or razor. Clinical examination and x‐ray imaging revealed a bilateral Type I hypoplastic thumb with bilateral minimal hypoplasia of the toes. Despite the surgical treatment options available, the patient opted not to undergo surgery due to his adaptation to his condition. Hypoplastic thumb Type I is a congenital condition characterized by underdevelopment of the thumb. Bilateral thumb hypoplasia with toes hypoplasia is extremely rare. A full systemic evaluation should be done due to its associations with other syndromic manifestations and treatment options are discussed concerning the best functional outcomes and patient preferences.
In situ Tracking the Constrained Reconstruction of Cu3Pd@SiO2 Nanoparticles Driven by Redox Atmospheres
Authors: Xu Changcheng , Zhao Qiao , Han Shaobo , Liu Shuang , Liu Wei , Li Yong , Shen Wenjie
Published: March 2024

Endowed with flexible surface coordination and synergetic electronic status, bimetallic particles serve as promising heterogeneous catalysts as their microstructures evolved sensitively to the treatment atmospheres, whereas knowledge of dynamic manners is less. Herein, utilizing environmental transmission electron microscopy (ETEM), the reconstructions of Cu3Pd particles in oxidization/reduction atmospheres were explored at atomic scale. Specifically, bare Cu3Pd particles went through a phase separation of CuOx and PdOx during in situ oxidation, and subsequent agglomeration after H2 reduction. While protected in a silica shell, the confined Cu3Pd particles were oxidized into Cu1.5Pd0.5O2 phase after air calcination and subsequently restructured into versatile configurations during H2 reduction. Specifically, hollow Cu3Pd alloy architecture with Pd enriched layer near surface as reduced at 200 °C. Further rising 400 to 600 °C, it yielded disordered Cu3Pd alloys with slightly Pd atoms enrichment at outmost surface. The dynamical behaviors of single Cu1.5Pd0.5O2 particle during in situ reduction have been visualized in ETEM, wherein a series of deformation, elongation and rotation is involved during the hollow architecture firstly formation, and then vanished into a Cu3Pd solid solution nanoparticle. The tunable microstructures of Cu3Pd@SiO2 driven by redox atmospheres demonstrate efficient approach for precisely regulating the chemical environments of constrained bimetallic nanocatalysts.
Optimizing air quality predictions: A discrete wavelet transform and long short‐term memory approach with wavelet‐type selection for hourly PM10 concentrations
Authors: Taşağıl Arslan Gökçe Nur , Kılıç Depren Serpil
Published: March 2024

The rapid advancement of industrialization and urbanization has led to the global problem of air pollution. Air quality can decrease due to pollutants in the air, including types of gases and particles that are carcinogenic, causing adverse health effects. Therefore, estimating the concentration of air pollutants is of great interest as it can provide accurate information about air quality with proper planning of future activities. In this manner, this study considers Istanbul, a province with a high concentration of industry, population, and vehicle traffic. Particulate matter (PM), one of the most basic air pollutants, is stated to contain microscopic solids or liquid droplets that are small enough to be inhaled and cause serious health problems. Thus, it is recommended to apply discrete wavelet transform (DWT) and deep learning method long short‐term memory (LSTM) as a hybrid model to predict the concentration of PM10. Using the mentioned methods, they can predict air pollution to have been developed within the scope of this study. Furthermore, the hybrid approach with LSTM by selecting the most appropriate discrete wavelet type emphasizes the difference of this study from the existing literature. The ability of these developed methods to make successful future predictions helps institutions and organizations that can take precautions on the subject to take action at the right time; in addition, the deep learning methods used contribute to the development of sustainable smart environmental systems. In today's environment when air pollution is increasing and threatening human health, any precaution that can be taken would improve the quality of life for all living things, reduce health issues and deaths caused by air pollution, and thus raise the degree of well‐being. These findings might offer a reliable scientific evidence for Istanbul City's air pollution management, which can serve as an example for other regions.
Profiling of Oxylipins as Markers of Oxidative Stress in Biological Samples
Authors: Yang Liping , Choi Jaewoo , Maier Claudia S. , Stevens Jan F.
Published: March 2024

Oxylipins are oxidized metabolites of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs). They represent a class of risk markers and/or therapeutic targets for diseases associated with inflammation, including cardiovascular disease and brain disorders. Because the biological activities of free PUFAs and oxylipins depend on their chemical structures and concentrations, monitoring PUFAs and oxylipin levels in biological systems is critical for understanding their roles in health and disease. Traditionally, accurate quantification of free PUFAs and oxylipins in biological samples was performed separately, as PUFAs are often 1000‐fold more abundant than the derived oxidized fatty acids (oxylipins). This article describes a liquid chromatography multiple reaction monitoring tandem mass spectrometry method for the quantitative analysis of five free PUFAs and 88 oxylipins in various biological fluids, including plasma, platelet supernatants, and tissues. The same approach can also be used in conjunction with an alkaline hydrolysis step to quantify total oxylipins in fish oils. We observed that in some samples, linoleic acid levels in plasma and eicosapentaenoic acid and arachidonic acid levels in brain tissue were above the upper limit of quantification. To address this issue, we developed a data analysis method to obtain PUFA and oxylipin concentrations in these samples without additional sample preparation, thus significantly saving time and labor. © 2024 Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol: Quantification of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) and oxylipins using liquid chromatography multiple reaction monitoring tandem mass spectrometry

Support Protocol 1: Preparation of internal standard mixed working solution

Support Protocol 2: Preparation of standard mixed stock solution

Support Protocol 3: Preparation of standard mixed working solution

Alternate Protocol 1: Extraction and quantitation of free PUFAs and oxylipins from mouse brain tissue

Alternate Protocol 2: Extraction and quantitation of total PUFAs and oxylipins from fish oil
Assessing habitat connectivity of rare species to inform urban conservation planning
Authors: McCluskey Eric M. , Kuzma Faith C. , Enander Helen D. , Cole‐Wick Ashley , Coury Michela , Cuthrell David L. , Johnson Caley , Kelso Marianne , Lee Yu Man , Methner Diana , Rowe Logan , Swinehart Alyssa , Moore Jennifer A.
Published: March 2024

Urbanization is commonly associated with biodiversity loss and habitat fragmentation. However, urban environments often have greenspaces that can support wildlife populations, including rare species. The challenge for conservation planners working in these systems is identifying priority habitats and corridors for protection before they are lost. In a rapidly changing urban environment, this requires prompt decisions informed by accurate spatial information. Here, we combine several approaches to map habitat and assess connectivity for a diverse set of rare species in seven urban study areas across southern Michigan, USA. We incorporated multiple connectivity tools for a comprehensive appraisal of species‐habitat patterns across these urban landscapes. We observed distinct differences in connectivity by taxonomic group and site. The three turtle species (Blanding's, Eastern Box, and Spotted) consistently had more habitat predicted to be suitable per site than other evaluated species. This is promising for this at‐risk taxonomic group and allows conservation efforts to focus on mitigating threats such as road mortality. Grassland and prairie‐associated species (American Bumble Bee, Black and Gold Bumble Bee, and Henslow's Sparrow) had the least amount of habitat on a site‐by‐site basis. Kalamazoo and the northern Detroit sites had the highest levels of multi‐species connectivity across the entire study area based on the least cost paths. These connectivity results have direct applications in urban planning. Kalamazoo, one of the focal urban regions, has implemented a Natural Features Protection (NFP) plan to bolster natural area protections within the city. We compared our connectivity results to the NFP area and show where this plan will have an immediate positive impact and additional areas for potential consideration in future expansions of the protection network. Our results show that conservation opportunities exist within each of the assessed urban areas for maintaining rare species, a key benefit of this multi‐species and multi‐site approach.
Mental fatigue impairs the number of repetitions to muscular failure in the half back‐squat exercise for low‐ and mid‐ but not high‐intensity resistance exercise
Authors: de Lima‐Junior Dalton , Gantois Petrus , Nakamura Fabio Yuzo , Marcora Samuele Maria , Batista Gilmário Ricarte , Bartolomei Sandro , Ferreira Maria Elisa Caputo , de Sousa Fortes Leonardo
Published: March 2024

The study aimed to analyze the acute effect of mental fatigue on the maximum number of repetitions in a resistance exercise session with different intensities in resistance‐trained adults. Eighteen young men aged between 18 and 25 years old (age, 22.1 ± 2.0 years; body weight, 82.5 ± 6.6 kg; height, 177.4 ± 5.2 cm; half‐back squat 1‐RM, 106.7 ± 21.9 kg) were recruited for the study. Each participant performed two trials (i.e., control and mental fatigue) in a random and balanced order for 30‐min. The participants performed three sets of half back‐squat exercise to failure, with intensities of 50%, 70%, and 90% of 1RM with a passive recovery interval of 5‐min between sets. The intensity was randomized and counterbalanced, and the order was maintained in both conditions for the same subject. We assessed resistance training using the number of repetitions to failure and perceived effort and checked the mental fatigue subjectively and objectively. The participants in the mental fatigue condition presented a significantly increased perception of mental fatigue (p < 0.05) and reduced pupil diameter (p < 0.05). The number of repetitions were significantly lower for the 50 (p < 0.05) and 75% 1RM (p < 0.05) in the mental fatigue condition, but the 90% 1RM remained similar (p > 0.05). Also, the perceived effort showed significantly higher results for the 50 (p < 0.05) and 75% 1RM (p < 0.05) in the mental fatigue condition, but the 90% 1RM remained similar (p > 0.05). Then, this study showed that mental fatigue reduced resistance exercise performance for low‐ and mid‐intensity but not for high‐intensity.
Predicting performance of elite kickboxers using the multi‐states theory framework
Authors: Morrone Marco , Ventura Lucia , Roggio Irene , Di Blasio Andrea , Ruiz Montse , Deriu Franca , Cugusi Lucia , Manca Andrea , Robazza Claudio
Published: March 2024

Using the multi‐states (MuSt) theory framework, this study examined the interplay between self‐confidence, emotional arousal control, worry, concentration disruption, challenge and threat appraisals, psychobiosocial experiences, and self‐evaluated performance of medalist kickboxers involved in the WAKO World Kickboxing Championship 2021. Participants were 103 gold, silver, or bronze medalists (58 women and 45 men), aged 18–39 (M = 25.16 ± 4.54 years), who were contacted via email and social media and asked to fill an online survey 3 months after the event. According to the MuSt theory predictions, self‐confidence and emotional arousal control were positively related to challenge appraisal, functional psychobiosocial experiences, and self‐evaluated performance. Worry and concentration disruption were positively associated with threat appraisal, and negatively related to functional psychobiosocial experiences; concentration disruption was also negatively related to self‐evaluated performance. Results from path analysis revealed a positive indirect link from self‐confidence to self‐evaluated performance via challenge appraisal and psychobiosocial experiences. Negative indirect links from worry and concentration disruption to self‐evaluated performance through threat appraisal and psychobiosocial experiences were significant. A positive indirect effect from emotional arousal control to self‐evaluated performance via psychobiosocial experiences was also shown. The findings are discussed in light of the MuSt theory.
Effect of eggshell powder on polyvinyl ester composite: A statistical correlation on mechanical strength
Authors: Babu Kumba Anand , Paramasivam Baranitharan , Vijayananth Kavimani , Seenivasan Venkatesh , Raju Sasikumar
Published: March 2024

The present study focuses on day‐by‐day litter discarded cigarette filter fiber (CFF) reinforced polyvinyl ester (VE) composites developed by a compression molding process. Chicken eggshell powder (ESP) is used as a filler material in the matrix phase with different weight percentages (0%, 3%, and 5%). Multi‐criteria decision‐making (MCDM) using Criteria Importance through Inter criteria Correlation (CRITIC) integrated TOmada de Decisao Interativa Multicriterio (TODIM) methodology was used to find the optimal condition for mechanical properties. CFF (50–60 wt%), fiber length (10–20 mm), and filler (0–5 wt%) are selected as process control factors with different levels. The CRITIC‐TODIM optimization results reveal that ESP filler has acted as the dominant parameter in fabricated composites in amplifying the tensile, impact, and flexural properties. The integrated approach reveals that CFF 60 wt%, fiber length 20 mm with ESP 3 wt% combination have the optimal mechanical characteristics. Thermo‐gravimetric analysis indicates that composite developed at optimal conditions exhibits better thermal stability when compared with null ESP filler composite.
A deep learning‐based financial hedging approach for the effective management of commodity risks
Authors: Hu Yan , Ni Jian
Published: March 2024

The development of deep learning technique has granted firms with new opportunities to substantially improve their risk management strategies for sustainable growth. This paper introduces a novel deep learning‐based financial hedging (DL‐HE) strategy to leverage the salient ability of deep learning in extracting nonlinear features from complex high dimensional data, thus boosting the management of inventory risks arising from erratic commodity prices. Using real‐world data, we find that the average annualized economic benefit of the proposed strategy is at least 1.21 million CNY for a typical aluminum firm carrying an average level of inventory in China, as compared with those of the traditional hedging strategies. Further analysis reveals that such an economic benefit can largely be explained by the efficacy of the proposed DL‐HE strategy in terms of significantly improving return while still effectively controlling risk. Moreover, the superior of this strategy remains robust when extending to copper and zinc.
The utility of fetal heart rate deceleration's descending slope in searching for a non‐National Institute of Child Health and Human Development parameter for the detection of fetal acidosis
Authors: Castán Larraz Berta , Esteban Luis Mariano , Castán Mateo Sergio , Chóliz Ezquerro Marta , Calvo Torres Javier , Esteban‐Escaño Javier , Rodríguez Solanilla Belén , Cisneros Gimeno Ana , Savirón‐Cornudella Ricardo
Published: March 2024

Objective

To identify new parameters predicting fetal acidemia.

Methods

A retrospective case–control study in a cohort of deliveries from a tertiary referral hospital‐based cohort deliveries in Zaragoza, Spain between 2018 and 2021 was performed. To predict fetal acidemia, the NICHD categorizations and non‐NICHD parameters were analyzed in the electronic fetal monitoring (EFM). Those included total reperfusion time, total deceleration area and the slope of the descending limb of the fetal heart rate of the last deceleration curve. The accuracy of the parameters was evaluated using the specificity for (80%, 85%, 90%, 95%) sensitivity and the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC).

Results

A total of 10 362 deliveries were reviewed, with 224 cases and 278 controls included in the study. The NICHD categorizations showed reasonable discriminatory ability (AUC = 0.727). The non‐NICHD parameters measured during the 30‐min fetal monitoring, total deceleration area (AUC = 0.807, 95% CI: 0.770, 0.845) and total reperfusion time (AUC = 0.750, 95% CI: 0.707, 0.792), exhibited higher discriminatory ability. The slope of the descending limb of the fetal heart rate of the last deceleration curve had the best AUC value (0.853, 95% CI: 0.816, 0.889). The combination of total deceleration area or total reperfusion time with the slope demonstrated high discriminatory ability (AUC = 0.908, 95% CI: 0.882, 0.933; specificities of 71.6% and 72.7% for a sensitivity of 90%).

Conclusions

The slope of the descending limb of the fetal heart rate of the last deceleration curve is the strongest predictor of fetal acidosis, but its combination with the total reperfusion time shows better clinical utility.
Label‐free surface‐enhanced Raman spectroscopy coupled with machine learning algorithms in pathogenic microbial identification: Current trends, challenges, and perspectives
Authors: Tang Jia‐Wei , Yuan Quan , Wen Xin‐Ru , Usman Muhammad , Tay Alfred Chin Yen , Wang Liang
Published: March 2024

Infectious diseases caused by microbial pathogens remain a primary contributor to global health burdens. Prompt control and effective prevention of these pathogens are critical for public health and medical diagnostics. Conventional microbial detection methods suffer from high complexity, low sensitivity, and poor selectivity. Therefore, developing rapid and reliable methods for microbial pathogen detection has become imperative. Surface‐enhanced Raman Spectroscopy (SERS), as an innovative non‐invasive diagnostic technique, holds significant promise in pathogenic microorganism detection due to its rapid, reliable, and cost‐effective advantages. This review comprehensively outlines the fundamental theories of Raman Spectroscopy (RS) with a focus on label‐free SERS strategy, reporting on the latest advancements of SERS technique in detecting bacteria, viruses, and fungi in clinical settings. Furthermore, we emphasize the application of machine learning algorithms in SERS spectral analysis. Finally, challenges faced by SERS application are probed, and the prospective development is discussed.
Model‐Based Framework for Data and Knowledge‐Driven Systems Architecting Demonstrated on a Hydrogen‐Powered Concept Aircraft
Authors: Kuelper Nils , Bielsky Thimo , Broehan Jasmin , Thielecke Frank
Published: March 2024

Aircraft development is a protracted process over many years. Novel concept aircraft with new energy sources and disruptive systems technologies are investigated during the aircraft conceptual design phase with the goal to achieve sustainable aviation. Current development cycles need to be accelerated to reduce time to market and development costs of novel aircraft, while still handling complexity and uncertainty of systems technologies. Therefore, a holistic framework for knowledgebased systems architecting using a model‐based systems engineering approach is presented. This framework has the purpose to conserve and provide knowledge, that is, information, data, and experiences about existing systems architectures, to the engineer. The developed framework consists of a database concept, a method for model‐based systems architecting, and an interface to the overall systems design software toolGeneSys. Based on evaluating different modeling languages and tools,MathWorks System Composeris selected as most suitable tool for knowledge‐based systems architecting. The developed framework is then demonstrated by conserving and reusing formalized knowledge for the design of a novel hydrogen‐powered concept aircraft. On‐board systems architecture models are saved in a database and automatically recreated reducing development time. The complete graphical representation could not yet be stored in a formalized manner partly reducing the advantage of a clear representation of model‐based systems architecting. However, this did not reduce automatic recreation and evaluation capabilities.
Applying a System of Systems Perspective to Hyundai‐Kia's Virtual Tire Development
Authors: Yun Sunkil , Alai Shashank , Kim Yongdae , Kim Tae Kook , Jo Jaehun , Lee Dahyeon , Gorantla Lokesh , Baloh Michael
Published: March 2024

Systems engineering has become important in almost every complex product manufacturing industry, especially automotive. Emerging trends like vehicle electrification and autonomous driving now pose a system of systems (SoS) engineering challenge to automotive OEMs. This paper presents a proof‐of‐concept (PoC) that applies a top‐down SoS perspective to Hyundai‐Kia Motor Corporation's (HKMC) virtual product development process to develop a performance‐critical component of the vehicle, the tire. The PoC demonstrates using the Arcadia MBSE method to develop a consistent, layered, vehicle architecture model starting from the SoS operational context down to the lowest level of system decomposition in the physical architecture thereby capturing top‐down knowledge traceability Using the concept of functional chains, several vehicle performance views are captured that serve as the basis for architecture verification orchestration across engineering domains using a cross‐domain orchestration platform thereby validating key vehicle/tire performance metrics that influence the tire design parameters. Preliminary results of the study show that applying a method‐based modeling approach could provide several benefits to HKMC's current product development approach such as reduced time to model, SoS knowledge capture and reusability, parameter/requirement traceability, early performance verification, and effective systems engineering collaboration between the OEM, tire design supplier, and tire manufacturers.
Nanoparticles for the synthesis of bio‐based chemical 5‐Hydroxymethyl furfural from agricultural waste and biomass‐derived carbohydrates‐A review
Authors: Anjali  , Veluturla Sravanthi , Saranya R , Vijaya Lakshmi S , Hemanth K M
Published: March 2024

The need for 5‐Hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) has garnered significant attention owing to its versatile applications in the chemical industry as a precursor for biofuels, pharmaceuticals and fine chemicals. This abstract summarizes a complete review on the synthesis of HMF using heterogeneous catalyst from agriculture waste and various biomass‐derived carbohydrates, focusing on their efficiency, selectivity and industrial feasibility. This review systematically outlines the diverse classes of heterogeneous catalyst employed in HMF production, including titanium dioxide (TiO2), zirconium dioxide (ZrO2), silicon dioxide (SiO2) and aluminium oxide (Al2O3), where the discussion highlights their catalytic mechanisms and intrinsic properties that influence HMF yield, selectivity, stability and reusability. In addition, the impact of reaction parameters such as temperature, pressure, solvent, feedstock composition and catalyst morphology on HMF synthesis has been assessed. This review consolidates the current state‐of‐the‐art methodologies in the synthesis of HMF using various heterogeneous nanoparticle catalysts. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Marc van Regenmortel, personal recollections on a forward‐thinking editor
Authors: Pellequer Jean‐Luc , Westhof Eric
Published: March 2024

Marc van Regenmortel was the Editor‐in‐Chief of the Journal of Molecular Recognition for the last 25 years. Without attempting to summarize Marc's exceptional career and achievements, we would like to tell the story of the tortuous and contingent path to the unravelling of a key molecular recognition process in antigenicity. Life is indeed full of contingencies and scientific life, full of meetings and random encounters, is prone to contingencies, a key element in discovery and innovation.
Different concentrations of silver nanoparticles trigger growth, yield, and quality of strawberry (Fragaria ananassa L.) fruits
Authors: Shahzad Umbreen , Saqib Muhammad , Jhanzab Hafiz Muhammad , Abou Fayssal Sami , Ahmad Riaz , Qayyum Abdul
Published: March 2024

Background

The application of nanoparticles (NPs) in horticultural crops is in a tremendous increase. NPs help in the overcoming of stresses with positive impacts on plant growth and development. Silver NPs (AgNPs) have numerous pre‐ and postharvest applications in agriculture.

Aims and methods

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of AgNPs application (0, 50, 100, 150, and 200 ppm) at three spray intervals (5, 10, and 15 days) on the morphological and compositional traits, and defense system of strawberry.

Results

Results showed that AgNPs application enhanced the growth, yield, quality, and nutritional aspects of strawberry grown under field conditions. Shoot fresh weight (20.20 g) and leaf number/plant (41.53) were enhanced at 100 ppm AgNPs and 15 days interval. A stunted growth of strawberry plants was recorded at 200 ppm AgNPs. Moreover, a 15‐day‐spray interval was found optimum for the improvement of major morphological traits. Fruit size, yield, total soluble solids, acidity, and antioxidant capacity were improved at 50 and 100 ppm AgNPs. The activation of plant defense system, that is, superoxide dismutase, peroxidase, catalase, total soluble protein, and ascorbic acid was improved under AgNPs foliar application. The activation of stress indicating marker malondialdehyde outlined a high defense response of strawberry at 150 ppm AgNPs.

Conclusions

Conclusively, AgNPs application at 50, 100, and 150 ppm can be considered effective for sustainable strawberry production.
Effect of salting and dehydration treatments on the physicochemical and gel properties of hen and duck egg yolks, plasma and granules
Authors: Su Yujie , Sun Yuanyuan , Chang Cuihua , Li Junhua , Cai Yundan , Zhao Qianwen , Huang Zijian , Xiong Wen , Gu Luping , Yang Yanjun
Published: March 2024

BACKGROUND

Salted hen egg yolks are less oily and less flavorful than salted duck egg yolks. However, hen eggs have a more adequate market supply and have a broader application prospect than duck eggs. In the present study, egg yolks, plasma, and granules were dehydrated by adding 1% NaCl to simulate traditional curing process of salted egg yolk. The changes in the pickling process of hen egg yolks (HEY) and duck egg yolks (DEY) plasma and granules were compared to reveal the gelation mechanism and the underlying causes of quality differences in salted HEY and DEY. Salted HEY can be compared with the changes in DEY during the pickling process to provide a theoretical basis for the quality improvement of salted HEY to salted DEY.

RESULTS

The results showed that both plasma and granules were involved in gel formation, but exhibited different aggregation behaviors. Based on the intermolecular forces, the HEY proteins achieved aggregation mainly through hydrophobic interactions and DEY proteins mainly through covalent binding. According to spin–spin relaxation time, HEY gels immobilized a large amount of lipid and interacted strongly with lipids. DEY gels showed much free lipid and had weak interaction with lipid. The microstructure showed that HEY proteins were easily unfolded to form a homogeneous three‐dimensional gel network structure after salting, whereas heterogeneous aggregates were formed to hinder the gel development in DEY. Changes in protein secondary structure content showed that pickling can promote the transformation of the α‐helices to β‐sheets structure in HEY gels, whereas more α‐helices structure was formed in DEY gels.

CONCLUSION

The present study has demonstrated that different gelation behaviors of hen and duck egg yolk proteins (especially in plasma) through salting treatment led to the difference in the quality of salted HEY and DEY. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Evaluating the causal effect of atherosclerosis on the risk of intervertebral disc degeneration
Authors: Cai Yang‐Ting , Zhong Xian‐Xing , Mo Ling , Huang Rui‐Ze , Lin Qiang , Liu Cai‐Jun , Zhang Shun‐Cong
Published: March 2024

Background

Intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD) and atherosclerosis are two common age‐related conditions that can cause significant morbidity. While previous studies have suggested an association between the two conditions, the nature of this association remains unclear.

Methods

We used Mendelian randomization (MR) to investigate the causal relationship between IDD and atherosclerosis. We identified genetic variants associated with IDD using summary statistics from a large genome‐wide association study (GWAS). These variants were then used as instrumental variables to infer causal relationships with atherosclerosis in summary statistics from a separate GWAS.

Results

Our MR analysis provided evidence for a causal relationship between IDD and atherosclerosis. We found that the genetic predisposition to atherosclerosis was associated with a higher risk of IDD (odds ratio [OR] = 3.55, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.07–11.74, p = 0.04). The IVW estimates were consistent with the observational findings and other robust MR methods. Sensitivity analyses suggested that our findings were robust to potential sources of bias.

Conclusions

Our study provides evidence for a causal link between IDD and atherosclerosis, suggesting that interventions targeting atherosclerosis could have potential benefits for reducing the risk of IDD. Further research is needed to explore the underlying mechanisms that link these two conditions and to investigate potential therapeutic interventions.
Dissolved organic matter offsets the detrimental effects of climate change in the nitrogen‐fixing cyanobacterium Crocosphaera
Authors: Filella Alba , Umbricht Jacqueline , Klett Angelina , Vogts Angela , Vannier Thomas , Grosso Olivier , Voss Maren , Riemann Lasse , Benavides Mar
Published: March 2024

Diazotrophs provide a significant reactive nitrogen source in the ocean. Increased warming and stratification may decrease nutrient availability in the future, forcing microbial communities toward using dissolved organic matter (DOM). Not depending on reactive nitrogen availability, diazotrophs may be “winners” in a nutrient‐depleted ocean. However, their ability to exploit DOM may influence this success. We exposed cultures of the widespread Crocosphaera to low (26°C, pH 8.1), moderate (28°C, pH 8.0), and extreme (30°C, pH 7.9) climate change scenarios, under control or DOM‐amended conditions. Growth was suboptimal in the low and extreme treatments and favored in the moderate treatment. DOM was preferred as a carbon source regardless of the treatment and promoted N2 fixation in extreme conditions. This was reflected in the increased expression of photosynthesis genes to obtain energy. DOM provides Crocosphaera with a key ecological advantage, possibly dictating diazotroph‐derived nitrogen inputs in the future ocean.
Identification of a novel TSC1 gene variant in a patient with atypical vitiligo‐like skin lesions: Unveiling the hidden tuberous sclerosis complex
Authors: Liu Linli , Wang Yanbo , Zhang Zhengzhong , Yu Chunshui , Chen Jin
Published: March 2024

Background

Tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC), an autosomal‐dominant disorder, is characterized by hamartomas affecting multiple organ systems. The underlying etiology of TSC is the pathogenic variations of the TSC1 or TSC2 genes. The phenotype variability of TSC could lead to missed diagnosis; therefore, the latest molecular diagnostic criteria for identifying a heterozygous pathogenic variant in either the TSC1 or TSC2 gene filled this gap. Furthermore, the pathogenicity of numerous variants remains unverified, potentially leading to misinterpretations of their functional consequences.

Methods

In this study, a single patient presenting with atypical vitiligo‐like skin lesions suspected to have TSC was enrolled. Targeted next‐generation sequencing and Sanger sequencing were employed to identify a pathogenic variant. Additionally, a minigene splicing assay was conducted to assess the impact of TSC1 c.1030‐2A>T, located in intron 10, on RNA splicing.

Results

A novel TSC1: c.1030‐2A>T heterozygosis variant was identified in intron 10. In vitro minigene assay revealed that the c.1030‐2A>T variant caused exon 11 skipping, resulting in a frameshift in the absence of 112 base pairs of mature messenger RNA and premature termination after 174 base pairs (p.Ala344Glnfs*59).

Conclusion

The detection of this novel pathogenic TSC1 variant in the patient with atypical vitiligo‐like skin lesions enrolled in our study ultimately resulted in the diagnosis of TSC. As a result, our study contributes to expanding the mutational spectrum of the TSC1 gene and refining the genotype–phenotype map of TSC.