bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Immunohistological study of the unexplored vomeronasal organ of an endangered mammal, the dama gazelle (Nanger dama)
Authors: Torres Mateo V. , Ortiz‐Leal Irene , Ferreiro Andrea , Rois José Luis , Sanchez‐Quinteiro Pablo
Published: July 2023

Dama gazelle is a threatened and rarely studied species found primarily in northern Africa. Human pressure has depleted the dama gazelle population from tens of thousands to a few hundred individuals. Since 1970, a founder population consisting of the last 17 surviving individuals in Western Sahara has been maintained in captivity, reproducing naturally. In preparation for the future implementation of assisted reproductive technology, certain aspects of dama gazelle reproductive biology have been established. However, the role played by semiochemical‐mediated communications in the sexual behavior of dama gazelle remains unknown due partially to a lack of a neuroanatomical or morphofunctional characterization of the dama gazelle vomeronasal organ (VNO), which is the sensory organ responsible for pheromone processing. The present study characterized the dama gazelle VNO, which appears fully equipped to perform neurosensory functions, contributing to current understanding of interspecies VNO variability among ruminants. By employing histological, lectin‐histochemical, and immunohistochemical techniques, we conducted a detailed morphofunctional evaluation of the dama gazelle VNO along its entire longitudinal axis. Our findings of significant structural and neurochemical transformation along the entire VNO suggest that future studies of the VNO should take a similar approach. The present study contributes to current understanding of dama gazelle VNO, providing a basis for future studies of semiochemical‐mediated communications and reproductive management in this species.

Research Highlights

This exhaustive immunohistological study of the vomeronasal organ (VNO) of the dama gazelle provides the first evidence of notable differences in the expression of neuronal markers along the rostrocaudal axis of the VNO.

This provides a morphological basis for the implementation of pheromones in captive populations of dama gazelle.
The prognostic impact of t(11;14) in multiple myeloma: A real‐world analysis from the Australian Lymphoma Leukaemia Group (ALLG) and the Australian Myeloma and Related Diseases Registry (MRDR)
Authors: Lim Kenneth JC , Wellard Cameron , Talaulikar Dipti , Tan Joanne LC , Loh Joanna , Puvanakumar Pratheepan , Kuzich James A , Ho Michelle , Murphy Matthew , Zeglinas Nicole , Low Michael SY , Routledge David , Lim Andrew BM , Gibbs Simon D , Quach Hang , Morgan Sue , Moore Elizabeth , Ninkovic Slavisa
Published: July 2023

The prognostic impact of t(11;14) in multiple myeloma (MM) needs to be better understood to inform future treatment decisions. The Australian Lymphoma Leukaemia Group embarked on a retrospective, observational cohort study using real‐world data to interrogate treatment patterns and outcomes in 74 MM patients with t(11;14) [t(11;14)‐MM] diagnosed over 10 years. This was compared to 159 and 111 MM patients with high‐risk IgH translocations (IgH HR‐MM) and hyperdiploidy (Hyperdiploid‐MM), respectively, from the Australian Myeloma and Related Diseases Registry. No appreciable differences in age, gender, ISS, LDH levels, 1q21 or del(17p) status, or treatment patterns were observed between groups. Median PFS‐1 was not different between groups but both t(11;14)‐MM and IgH HR‐MM had an inferior PFS‐2 vs. Hyperdiploid‐MM: median PFS–2 8.2 months, 10.0 months, and 19.8 months (p = 0.002), respectively. The 3‐year OS were 69%, 71%, and 82% (p = 0.026), respectively. In the t(11;14)‐MM group, gain or amplification of 1q21 at diagnosis predicted for poorer OS (HR 3.46, p = 0.002). Eleven patients had received venetoclax with 45% achieving better than a very good partial response. Results suggest that t(11;14) MM may confer an unfavorable risk profile and that the use of targeted therapies such as venetoclax earlier in the treatment algorithm should be explored.
Alteration of White Matter Connectivity for MR‐Guided Focused Ultrasound in the Treatment of Essential Tremor
Authors: Wang Xiaoyu , Lin Jiaji , Lu Haoxuan , Xiong Yongqin , Duan Caohui , Zhang Dong , Huang Jiayu , Deng Linlin , Li Chenxi , Li Runze , Zhang Dekang , Bian Xiangbing , Zhou Jiayou , Pan Longsheng , Lou Xin
Published: July 2023

Background

Magnetic resonance‐guided focused ultrasound (MRgFUS) thalamotomy has been implemented as a therapeutic alternative for the treatment of drug‐refractory essential tremor (ET). However, its impact on the brain structural network is still unclear.

Purpose

To investigate both global and local alterations of the white matter (WM) connectivity network in ET after MRgFUS thalamotomy.

Study Type

Retrospective.

Subjects

Twenty‐seven ET patients (61 ± 11 years, 19 males) with MRgFUS thalamotomy and 28 healthy controls (HC) (61 ± 11 years, 20 males) were recruited for comparison.

Field Strength/Sequence

A 3 T/single shell diffusion tensor imaging by using spin‐echo‐based echo‐planar imaging, three‐dimensional T1 weighted imaging by using gradient‐echo‐based sequence.

Assessment

Patients were undergoing MRgFUS thalamotomy and their clinical data were collected from pre‐operation to 6‐month post‐operation. Network topological metrics, including rich‐club organization, small‐world, and efficiency properties were calculated. Correlation between the topological metrics and tremor scores in ET groups was also calculated to assess the role of neural remodeling in the brain.

Statistical Tests

Two‐sample independent t‐tests, chi‐squared test, ANOVA, Bonferroni test, and Spearman's correlation. Statistical significance was set at P < 0.05.

Results

For ET patients, the strength of rich‐club connection and clustering coefficient significantly increased vs. characteristic path length decreased at 6‐month post‐operation compared with pre‐operation. The distribution pattern of rich‐club regions was different in ET groups. Specifically, the order of the rich‐club regions was changed according to the network degree value after MRgFUS thalamotomy. Moreover, the altered nodal efficiency in the right temporal pole of the superior temporal gyrus (R = 0.434–0.596) and right putamen (R = 0.413–0.436) was positively correlated with different tremor improvement.

Data Conclusion

These findings might improve understanding of treatment‐induced modulation from a network perspective and may work as an objective marker in the assessment of ET tremor control with MRgFUS thalamotomy.

Level of Evidence

3

Technical Efficacy

Stage 4
The impostor phenomenon at work: A systematic evidence‐based review, conceptual development, and agenda for future research
Authors: Gullifor Daniel P. , Gardner William L. , Karam Elizabeth P. , Noghani Farzaneh , Cogliser Claudia C.
Published: July 2023

The impostor phenomenon (IP) was originally identified over 40 years ago, and there has been a recent surge in its examination across domains of management research. However, a lack of a comprehensive review that synthesizes organizationally‐relevant IP research has left IP research dispersed across time and disciplines with diminished conceptual clarity and an incoherent nomological network. We address these shortcomings by conducting a systematic review of IP in the workplace. We review 188 scholarly works (111 articles and 77 dissertations) published from 1978 to 2023 and summarize these data to describe the current state of the workplace‐relevant IP literature. Moreover, we map the antecedents, correlates, mediators, moderators, and outcomes that have been examined in published research with the IP to develop an integrative framework. Next, we identify gaps in the literature, including the issue of conceptual imprecision regarding the IP construct. We address this imprecision through the advancement of both a trait‐ and state‐based understanding of the IP experience. Finally, we identify avenues for future research to direct future studies of the IP in organizational research.
A new E‐OBS gridded dataset for daily mean wind speed over Europe
Authors: de Baar Jouke H. S. , van der Schrier Gerard , van den Besselaar Else J. M. , Garcia‐Marti Irene , de Valk Cees
Published: July 2023

In this paper we present daily mean wind speed as a new variable in the publicly accessible E‐OBS gridded datasets. Each of the variables in the E‐OBS dataset is provided at a spatial resolution of 0.1° × 0.1° and 0.25° × 0.25°. The variable “daily mean wind speed” starts from 1980 and is updated every month. The main method that we apply is the use of adaptive covariate selection to model the monthly mean wind speed as a function of covariates, like altitude, distance to coast and surface roughness. Then, we use Gaussian process regression to interpolate the daily anomalies from the station locations to the grid locations. In addition, we develop ensemble dispersion improvement auto‐tune (EDIT) to improve the reliability of the local ensemble spread. In order to communicate the methodological uncertainty in the resulting dataset, the E‐OBS wind speed grid is provided as a 20‐member ensemble of random realizations. As part of a preliminary analysis, we investigate the hypothesized wind speed stilling effect in recent decades. Indeed, we do find a small yet significant wind speed stilling effect in the E‐OBS dataset.
Assessment on land use changes and livelihood transition under the hydropower dam construction in Paunglaung Township, Southern Shan Highlands, Myanmar
Authors: Swe Khin Nilar , Funakawa Shinya , Okamoto Yuki , Chan Nyein
Published: July 2023

We examined agricultural land use changes and their impacts on the local livelihoods of upstream farmers after the Paunglaung hydropower dam construction in Myanmar. Landsat and GeoEye images, acquired in 2011 and 2018, were used to detect agricultural land use changes. A marked decrease in agricultural land (5.77% of farmland and 9.64% of swidden) was observed, whereas orchards and plantations were introduced as new farming practices. Using the household survey, the income strategies were categorized by different wealth groups, and the socioeconomic condition was compared among the groups. We also compared the annual household income before and after dam construction. A significant change in income strategies after the dam construction were observed in low‐income households, but not in medium and high‐income households. Local people engaged in diversified livelihood strategies after the dam construction, mainly in relocated villages. Besides, farmland lost due to dam construction caused the significant insufficiency of rice self‐consumption and consequently resulted in greater dependency on the market of rice and their products. This study highlighted land use changes due to dam construction and its impacts on the livelihood of local farmers, contributing to planning the land use and livelihood strategies for affected farmers to ensure their livelihood security.
Physical controls and ecological implications of the timing of the spring phytoplankton bloom on the Newfoundland and Labrador shelf
Authors: Cyr Frédéric , Lewis Keith , Bélanger David , Regular Paul , Clay Stephanie , Devred Emmanuel
Published: July 2023

The timing of spring phytoplankton blooms is crucial to many species that have adapted their development to benefit from the enhanced feeding opportunity they offer. Any change to their timing may affect the productivity of an entire ecosystem. This study explores the relationship between the ocean climate, the timing of the spring bloom and the secondary production on the Newfoundland and Labrador shelf. It is found that over interannual cycles, the ocean climate is significantly correlated with the timing of the bloom and the abundance of Calanus finmarchicus, a key zooplankton species for the ecosystem. It also appears that the spring bloom is initiated by the onset of ocean re‐stratification following winter mixing. Understanding how annual variation in climate relates to the timing of the spring bloom and zooplankton abundance, that is, the base of the marine food web, can inform the development of ecosystem‐informed models for higher trophic levels.
A dual‐band complementary frequency selective surface combining structures that provides narrow and wide stop‐band frequency responses
Authors: Lira Ruann Victor de Andrade , da Silva Bruno Sátiro , Campos Antonio Luiz P. S. , Gomes Neto Alfredo
Published: July 2023

In this paper, we proposed a dual‐band complementary frequency selective surface (CFSS) with narrow stop band and large stop band. The proposed CFSS combines two simple geometries, the square loop with grid and the crossed dipole. The resonant frequencies are 2.53 and 5.38 GHz. The bandwidths of 280 MHz and 1.77 GHz were obtained, at –10 dB level, for the first and second bands, respectively. These frequencies and bands show that the structure can be applied in Wi‐Fi (2.4–2.5 GHz) and C‐band (4–6 GHz) frequencies. The simulated and measured results show that the chosen geometry has angular stability and polarization independence up to 45°. We can observe a good agreement between simulated and measured results.
Effect of polyurethane material design on damping ability
Authors: Babkina Nataliia , Antonenko Oksana , Kosyanchuk Ludmila , Vorontsova Liubov , Babich Oleg , Brovko Olexander
Published: July 2023

Polyurethane (PU) materials attract the interest of researchers for use in damping and vibration isolation. However, an undesirable property of pure polyurethane is a narrow temperature range of mechanical energy absorption. This study presented several ways to design damping PU materials based on two initial polyurethanes with different prepolymer compositions. The difference between the glass transition temperatures of initial PUs was 30°C. One way of designing was to obtain PU material based on a mixture of the two different prepolymers. Another way was to fabricate two‐layer composites from layers of different initial PUs. Тwo‐layer PU composites were fabricated in such ways as by sequential formation layer by layer or by gluing individual films. Continuous materials with a good connection between the layers were formed. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, light microscopy, contact angle measurements, and tensile tests were used for PU materials characterization. Dynamic mechanical analysis was used to investigate the viscoelastic properties and evaluate damping ability. The temperature ranges of effective damping (tan δ ≥ 0.3) from −27°C to 17°C and from −5°C to 42°C were shown for initial PUs. One high loss factor maximum for mixed‐base polyurethane was observed, and the temperature range of effective damping was from −20°C to 32°C. All designed two‐layer composites were shown two loss factor maxima. Their effective damping occurred either in one temperature range (−25°C to 29°C) or in two (−24°C to −14°C and −7°C to 37°C), depending on the design of the composite. The advantage of polyurethane materials design ways such as mixed‐base and two‐layer composite is the ease of control of the temperature region of effective damping. Proposed polyurethane materials designs offer a new approach to developing high‐performed damping materials.
Optical and structural properties of nanocomposites based on HMW‐PMMA reinforced by spherical and rod‐shaped titanium dioxide nanoparticles
Authors: Jouamaa A. , Panniello A. , El Fengouchi I. , Dell'Edera M. , Lahlouhi N. , Costa L. C. , Striccoli M. , El Hasnaoui M.
Published: July 2023

This work presents an investigation on the optical and structural properties of two series of nanocomposites based on the incorporation of spherical‐ (NDs) or rod‐shaped (NRs) semiconductive crystalline titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticles (NPs) into an insulating amorphous polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) matrix. The UV–visible absorbance and reflectance measurements reveal that the increase in TiO2 NP concentration within the polymer matrix reduces the forbidden band size for both NDs and NRs, leading to an improvement of the refractive index. SEM and TEM morphological characterizations were performed to investigate the size, size distribution and NPs dispersion within the polymeric matrix. The structural analyses performed by using X‐ray diffraction show peaks ascribed to the TiO2 crystalline structure while infrared (FT‐IR) spectra indicate the occurrence of interactions between nanofillers and the polymer chain of the host matrix.
Emotion dysregulation as mediator between mentalizing capacity and affective states: An exploratory study
Authors: Ghanbari Saeed , Asgarizadeh Ahmad , Vahidi Elahe , Seyed Mousavi Parisa Sadat , Omidghaemi Maryam
Published: July 2023

Aim

We intended to elucidate the relationship between mentalizing capacity and affective states by investigating the mediatory role of emotion dysregulation.

Methods

A sample of nonclinical Iranian adults (N = 445) completed a battery of online self‐report measures comprising the Positive and Negative Affect Schedule (PANAS), Mentalization Scale (MentS), and Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale (DERS).

Results

Correlational analyses demonstrated that self‐ and other‐related mentalizing were significantly and inversely associated with emotion dysregulation, which in turn was strongly linked with positive and negative affects. Using structural equation modeling, the results delineated emotion dysregulation as a mediator between self‐ and other‐related mentalizing and affective states, predicting higher negative and lower positive affects. However, motivation to mentalize failed to predict positive affects and only contributed to lower negative affects directly.

Conclusion

Mentalizing capacity was found to be indirectly linked with affective states through emotion dysregulation; hence, along with the previously substantiated association between emotion dysregulation and affective states and the partially established relationship between mentalizing capacity and affective states, we propose mentalizing incapacity to be at fault in the development of affective difficulties.
Metabolic reprogramming in osteosarcoma
Authors: Shi Yulu , Yue Xiaohan , Luo Qing
Published: July 2023

Tumor cells undergo metabolic reprogramming to meet their energy and anabolic demands to maintain their malignant phenotype. Activation of oncogenes and deletion of tumor suppressors promotes metabolic reprogramming in cancer by directly or indirectly regulating enzymatic activities associated with metabolic pathways. Metabolic reprogramming in tumor cells mainly involves the glycolytic pathway, pentose phosphate pathway, serine synthesis pathway, enhanced glutamine metabolism or fatty acid anabolism, and abnormal mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS). The tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle is the central pathway of mitochondrial OXPHOS, and glucose, amino acid and fatty acid metabolism are associated with the TCA cycle. Metabolic abnormalities and rewiring of metabolic pathways are also present in Osteosarcoma (OS). The abnormal metabolic pattern in OS is associated with cell proliferation, migration, invasion and drug resistance. This review summarizes the current studies on glycolysis, amino acid metabolism, lipid synthesis and the TCA cycle related to OS.
The role of hyperglycemia‐evoked intracellular hyaluronan accumulation and its activity on the autophagic and endoplasmic reticulum stress pathways
Authors: Wang Andrew , Wang Aimin , Hascall Vincent
Published: July 2023

Mesangial expansion is a hallmark of diabetic nephropathy (DN) that reduces the area for filtration and leads eventually to sclerosis and renal failure. A phenotypic activation and transient proliferation of the glomerular mesangial cells and a subsequent prominent glomerular infiltration of monocytes and macrophages appear to have a key role in the induction of mesangial matrix expansion, hypercellularity, and the onset of proteinuria. The molecular mechanisms underlying glomerular infiltration and activation by monocytes in DN are still unclear. Our previous studies indicate that aberrant intracellular synthesis of hyaluronan (HA) by hyperglycemic dividing mesangial cells is the central mechanism involved. These studies demonstrated that mesangial cells that divided in hyperglycemia activated synthesis of HA in intracellular compartments and induced endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress/autophagy to secrete and form a monocyte adhesive extracellular HA matrix. This recruits inflammatory cells and establishes a chronic inflammatory fibrosis process that leads to sclerosis and renal failure. Our perspectives for the role of intracellular HA synthesis, ER stress, and autophagy in diabetic nephropathy are described.
Practical considerations for individualizing drug dosing in critically ill adults receiving renal replacement therapy
Authors: Kanji Salmaan , Roger Claire , Taccone Fabio Silvio , Muller Laurent
Published: July 2023

Critically ill patients with sepsis admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) often present with or develop renal dysfunction requiring renal replacement therapy (RRT) in addition to antimicrobial therapy. While early and appropriate antimicrobials for sepsis have been associated with an increased probability of survival, adequate dosing is also required in these patients. Adequate dosing of antimicrobials refers to dosing strategies that achieve serum drug levels at the site of infection that are able to provide a microbiological and/or clinical response while avoiding toxicity from excessive antibiotic exposure. Therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) is the recommended strategy to achieve this goal, however, TDM is not routinely available in all ICUs and for all antimicrobials. In the absence of TDM, clinicians are therefore required to make dosing decisions based on the clinical condition of the patient, the causative organism, the characteristics of RRT, and an understanding of the physicochemical properties of the antimicrobial. Pharmacokinetics (PK) of antimicrobials can be highly variable between critically ill patients and also within the same patient over the course of their ICU stay. The initiation of RRT, which can be in the form of intermittent hemodialysis, continuous, or prolonged intermittent therapy, further complicates the predictability of drug disposition. This variability highlights the need for individualized dosing. This review highlights the practical considerations for the clinician for antimicrobial dosing in critically ill patients receiving RRT.
Effects of dopamine D2 receptor antagonists on retinal pigment epithelial/choroid complex metabolism in form‐deprived myopic guinea pigs
Authors: Wei Pinghui , Han Guoge , Wang Yan
Published: July 2023

The retinal pigment epithelial (RPE)/choroid complex regulates myopia development, but the precise pathogenesis of myopia remains unclear. We aimed to investigate the changes in RPE/choroid complex metabolism in a form deprivation myopia model after dopamine D2 receptor (D2R) modulation. Guinea pigs were randomly divided into normal (NC), form deprivation myopia (FDM), and FDM treated with dopamine D2R antagonist groups. Differential metabolites were screened using SIMCA‐P software and MetaboAnalyst metabolomics analysis tool. Functions of differential metabolites were analyzed using KEGG enrichment pathways. Relative to the NC group, 38 differential metabolites were identified, comprising 29 increased metabolites (including nicotinic acid, cytosine, and glutamate) and 9 decreased metabolites, of which proline exhibited the largest decrease. Pathway analysis revealed regulation of arginine/proline and aspartate/glutamate metabolism. Intravitreal D2R antagonist injection increased proline concentrations and activated arginine/proline and purine metabolism pathways. In sum, D2R antagonists alleviated the myopia trend of refractive biological parameters in form deprivation myopic guinea pigs, suggesting the involvement of dopamine D2R signaling in myopia pathogenesis. The RPE/choroid may provide glutamate to the retina by activating proline metabolism via metabolic coupling with the retina. Dopamine D2R antagonism may modulate proline/arginine metabolic pathways in the RPE/choroid and regulate metabolism, information presentation, and myopia.
Quantification of freeze–thaw hysteresis of unfrozen water content and electrical resistivity from time lapse measurements in the active layer and permafrost
Authors: Tomaškovičová Soňa , Ingeman‐Nielsen Thomas
Published: July 2023

We quantified seasonal, in‐situ variation in ground electrical resistivity, unfrozen water content, and ground temperature using daily and sub‐daily measurements in active layer and in permafrost on a high‐latitude monitoring site in West Greenland. The in‐situ unfrozen water content in a clayey soil undergoing phase change was 10% higher during freezing than during thawing at the same ground temperature, thus shifting the freezing curve parameterization seasonally. The freeze–thaw unfrozen water content hysteresis was a measurable part of the energy balance of the active layer and corresponds to 12.1% of the total yearly enthalpy change for our field site. We also observed and quantified hysteresis in the relationships between ground electrical resistivity and unfrozen water content, where the inverted resistivities during freezing in the temperature range from 0°C to approximately −4°C were up to one order of magnitude higher than during thawing at the same unfrozen water content. As a result, the petro‐physical models that uniquely derive soil unfrozen water content from bulk soil electrical resistivity measured from ground surface do not fully capture the complexity of the in‐situ processes. The hysteresis should therefore be considered in quantitative interpretation of ground resistivity changes in terms of ground temperature and ice content changes.
Effectiveness of extracorporeal shockwave therapy in treatment of upper and lower limb tendinopathies: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Elgendy Mohamed H. , Khalil Shehab ElDin , ElMeligie Mohamed M. , Elazab Doaa Rafat
Published: July 2023

Background

Tendinopathy is caused by repetitive motion, excessive stress on the tendon, overstretch, and motion past the critical angle of rotation or translation. There are various treatment options available for tendinitis, including those affecting both the upper and lower limbs and those of calcific and non‐calcific types.

Hypothesis/purpose

Few reviews have analyzed the efficacy of Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) in treating upper and lower limb tendinopathies while considering calcific and non‐calcific‐type tendinitis. This paper provides a review and meta‐analysis on Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs), which compared results from a group undergoing ESWT treatment to another group under different treatments.

Study design

Systematic review and meta‐analysis.

Methods

A systematic search was conducted on PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, the Cochrane Central Register of Control Trials (CENTRAL), and Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) databases for articles published up to January 2022. The reference lists of identified articles were further scanned. Twenty‐two studies were included in the meta‐analysis.

Results

Meta‐analysis showed no difference in pain reduction in ESWT when compared with a comparison group at 4 (p = 0.26) and 12 weeks (p = 0.33). There were no differences in DASH scores at 12 months between the two groups (p = 0.32).

Conclusion

Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy (ESWT) is effective when used to treat lower limb and calcific tendinitis. It does not yield any better results than other treatment options in managing upper limb tendinopathies and non‐calcific tendinopathies.
Protein target highlights in CASP15: Analysis of models by structure providers
Authors: Alexander Leila T. , Durairaj Janani , Kryshtafovych Andriy , Abriata Luciano A. , Bayo Yusupha , Bhabha Gira , Breyton Cécile , Caulton Simon G. , Chen James , Degroux Séraphine , Ekiert Damian C. , Erlandsen Benedikte S. , Freddolino Lydia , Gilzer Dominic , Greening Chris , Grimes Jonathan M. , Grinter Rhys , Gurusaran Manickam , Hartmann Marcus D. , Hitchman Charlie J. , Keown Jeremy R. , Kropp Ashleigh , Kursula Petri , Lovering Andrew L. , Lemaitre Bruno , Lia Andrea , Liu Shiheng , Logotheti Maria , Lu Shuze , Markússon Sigurbjörn , Miller Mitchell D. , Minasov George , Niemann Hartmut H. , Opazo Felipe , Phillips George N. , Davies Owen R. , Rommelaere Samuel , Rosas‐Lemus Monica , Roversi Pietro , Satchell Karla , Smith Nathan , Wilson Mark A. , Wu Kuan‐Lin , Xia Xian , Xiao Han , Zhang Wenhua , Zhou Z. Hong , Fidelis Krzysztof , Topf Maya , Moult John , Schwede Torsten
Published: July 2023

We present an in‐depth analysis of selected CASP15 targets, focusing on their biological and functional significance. The authors of the structures identify and discuss key protein features and evaluate how effectively these aspects were captured in the submitted predictions. While the overall ability to predict three‐dimensional protein structures continues to impress, reproducing uncommon features not previously observed in experimental structures is still a challenge. Furthermore, instances with conformational flexibility and large multimeric complexes highlight the need for novel scoring strategies to better emphasize biologically relevant structural regions. Looking ahead, closer integration of computational and experimental techniques will play a key role in determining the next challenges to be unraveled in the field of structural molecular biology.
Challenges and opportunities of unmanned aerial vehicles as a new tool for crop pest control
Authors: Zhang Ruirui , Hewitt Andrew J , Chen Liping , Li Longlong , Tang Qing
Published: July 2023

The application of pesticides is not simply delivering chemicals to the target area. It also involves considering the negative aspects and developing strategies to deal with them during the application process, to ensure the maximization of pesticides use efficiency and the maintenance of the ecosystem. Unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) sprayers demonstrate unique advantages compared to traditional ground sprayers, particularly in terms of maneuverability and labor intensity reduction, showed great potential for chemical application in pest control. It is undeniable that there exist challenges in the practice of UAV spraying, such as higher potential risks of pesticide drift or pathogen transmission, uncertainty canopy deposition for different crops, and unexpected leaf breakage induced by downwash flow. Maximizing the utilization of downwash flow while avoiding lateral air movement outside the intended target crop area is a major issue for chemical application with UAV sprayers, particularly in light of the increasingly apparent consensus on the need for enhanced environmental protection during the chemical application process. It must be considered that the operation strategy in different scenarios and for different crop targets is not the same, unique requirements should be given on nozzle atomization, flight parameters, adjuvants and aircraft types in specific working situations. In future, the implementation of spray drift prediction, technical procedures development, and other solutions aimed at reducing pesticide drift and improving deposition quality, is expected to promote the adoption of UAV sprayers by more farmers. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Islam and contraception: A missed opportunity
Authors: Oraby Doaa
Published: July 2023

Rapid population growth is observed in many Muslim countries which presents an obstacle to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. Islam has considered the question of contraception with objectivity being a religion that underscores the importance of planning in all individual and societal affairs. There is no verse in the Quran which forbids the husband or wife to space pregnancies or reduce their number and the companions of the Prophet were allowed to practice coitus interruptus. Contraception opponents, on the other hand, claimed that any form of contraception violates God's intentions and that Islam called for a Muslim population that does not stop growing. Lack of knowledge of the position of Islam towards contraception and the religious misinterpretations that were propagated among grassroots resulted in the gap between Muslims and their doctrine regarding contraception. Raising awareness of how Islam perceived contraception and addressing questions of religious acceptability at the grassroots is one of the key factors in promoting the uptake of contraception programs in Muslim countries which will eventually scale up development efforts.
Adaptive safe control for tethered aircrafts with input and output constraints
Authors: Song Mengshi , Zhang Fan , Huang Bingxiao , Huang Panfeng
Published: July 2023

In this article, an adaptive safe control scheme is presented for tethered aircrafts subject to unknown disturbances, input saturations, and deferred asymmetric time‐varying output constraints. By integrating a shifting function into an asymmetric barrier Lyapunov function, the deferred asymmetric time‐varying output constraints are first solved. Then, to eliminate the conflict between input saturations and output constraints, an auxiliary system is designed to enlarge output constraint boundaries when input saturation occurs and the system has no tolerance for output constraints, which ensures system safety. Furthermore, disturbance observers are employed to estimate unknown disturbances. Finally, both theoretical proof and simulation results demonstrate the validity of the proposed control scheme.
Evaluating and mitigating locally and nationally variable food security dynamics in Guatemala through participatory causal loop diagram building
Authors: Isaac Juliana , Carrera Jaime Luís , Monterroso Rivas Ottoniel , Gálvez Ruano Juventino , Rueda Martínez María , Khowaja Azam , Russell Julian , Malard‐Adam Julien , Monardes Humberto , Adamowski Jan , Melgar‐Quiñonez Hugo
Published: July 2023

Various methods have been proposed to analyze national trends of malnutrition and food insecurity; however, these methods often fail to consider regional specificities that drive national food security dynamics. This case study seeks to close this gap through the novel use of participatory causal loop diagrams (CLDs) to analyze the malnutrition crisis and food security dynamics across diverse regions of Guatemala. Stakeholders from six municipalities with divergent food security outcomes, within territories of similar socioeconomic composition, created CLDs by identifying trends, causes, and consequences of malnutrition and food security. Characterizing and assessing these trends, referred to as the food security dynamic, are the primary goals of this paper. Key results include identification of the complex reinforcing relationship between marginalization, education, and health, which affects food insecurity and malnutrition in Guatemala in a nonlinear way. These results elucidate how similar communities can experience divergent food security outcomes and inform locally appropriate solutions. © 2023 The Authors. System Dynamics Review published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of System Dynamics Society.
A time‐dependent Poisson‐Gamma model for recruitment forecasting in multicenter studies
Authors: Turchetta Armando , Savy Nicolas , Stephens David A. , Moodie Erica E.M. , Klein Marina B.
Published: July 2023

Forecasting recruitments is a key component of the monitoring phase of multicenter studies. One of the most popular techniques in this field is the Poisson‐Gamma recruitment model, a Bayesian technique built on a doubly stochastic Poisson process. This approach is based on the modeling of enrollments as a Poisson process where the recruitment rates are assumed to be constant over time and to follow a common Gamma prior distribution. However, the constant‐rate assumption is a restrictive limitation that is rarely appropriate for applications in real studies. In this paper, we illustrate a flexible generalization of this methodology which allows the enrollment rates to vary over time by modeling them through B‐splines. We show the suitability of this approach for a wide range of recruitment behaviors in a simulation study and by estimating the recruitment progression of the Canadian Co‐infection Cohort.
Unraveling the Interaction of Synthesized Thienoangelicin Derivative by Fluorescence Studies with Solvents, Bovine Serum Albumin and Metal Ions
Authors: Biswas Tuyan , Haque Injamamul , Roy Soumili , Chakraborty Bidisha , Mitra Devrani , Kumar Kar Gandhi , Halder Arnab
Published: July 2023

The growing importance of angelicin derivatives in medicine has prompted us to develop an efficient synthesis strategy for a thienoangelicin derivative, ethyl 8‐methyl‐2‐oxo‐2H‐thieno[2,3‐h]chromene‐3‐carboxylate (MTCE), and investigate its potential applications in spatial probing, therapeutics, and optical sensing. This novel fluorophore, MTCE, exhibits large Stokes shift due to the intramolecular charge separation between the thiophene and coumarin nucleus in the excited state. This indicates its potential for probing spatial polarity. Specific solute‐solvent interactions play a significant role in experimentally calculated excited state dipole moment, including long‐range electrostatic interactions and hydrogen bonding. The multi‐spectroscopic and molecular docking approaches reveal that novel MTCE also interacts in subdomain IIA of BSA by forming ground state complexes following a static quenching mechanism, with the binding constant calculated at ∼104 M−1. The complexation is spontaneous (ΔG ∼−24 kJ mol−1), and enthalpy‐driven (ΔH∼−43 kJ mol−1 and ΔS∼−61 J mol−1), and is primarily mediated by hydrogen bonding and van der Waal forces. Furthermore, the unique fluorescence selectivity of MTCE towards Fe3+ ions under neutral pH conditions, through the formation of a 1 : 1 stoichiometric complex, sets it apart from other common metal ions. Therefore, MTCE holds promising potential for effective utilization in optical sensing applications targeting metal ions.
Nanographene‐Doped Chalcone Derivatives of Dioxybiphenyl‐Bridged Dispirocyclotriphosphazenes: Synthesis, Electrical Properties, and DFT Calculations
Authors: Sirka Lütfiye , Biryan Fatih , Çalışkan Eray , Akman Feride , Koran Kenan , Görgülü Ahmet Orhan
Published: July 2023

The cyclotriphosphazenes, which constitute an important class of inorganic compounds, can show new properties in the medical or technological fields depending on the properties of the substituted organic/inorganic groups. Herein, we aimed to determine electrical and theoretical properties of the nanographene‐doped chalcone derivatives of dioxybiphenyl‐bridged dispiro‐cyclotriphosphazenes. For this aim, a new series of chalcone substituted spiro‐cyclotriphosphazenes (3 a–g) have been synthesized by the reaction of dioxybiphenyl‐bridged dispiro‐cyclotriphosphazene (3) with chalcone derivatives (1 a–g), respectively. Then, nanographene was doped to these spiro‐cyclotriphosphazene 3 a–g using a hydrothermal system. The dielectric constant and loss factor of 4 % graphene‐doped chalcone‐substituted spiro‐cyclotriphosphazene 3 g were determined as 167 and 2147 at 1 kHz, respectively, showing a significant increase compared to compound 3 g. The energy values of HOMO and LUMO orbitals are computed using DFT theory's level of B3LYP/6‐31G(d,p). The FMO's energy gap values for 3 a–g were found to be 7.92, 3.48, 3.26, 3.33, 3.53, 4.03 and 3.75 eV, respectively. Especially at frequencies below 10 kHz, the most striking result was observed for the nanographene‐doped 3 d. While the AC conductivity of 3 d at 1 kHz was 3.87×10−9 S cm−1, the conductivity of the graphene‐doped 3 d was calculated as 5.00×10−6 S cm−1. In addition, DC conductivity measurements were completed as a function of temperature and linearly increasing graphs were obtained with temperature. The activation energies calculated from the slopes of these graphs were 0.293, 0.305, 0.364 and 0.920 eV for 3 c, 3 d, 3 e and 3 g, respectively.
Copper‐Catalyzed Synthesis of Diaryl Sulfones via Cross‐Coupling of Boronic Acids and p‐Toluenesulfonyl Hydrazide
Authors: Desai Bhargav , Patil Rachit S. , Bhukya Hussain , Dholakiya Bharatkumar Z. , Naveen Togati
Published: July 2023

Diaryl sulfones are known to show diverse pharmacological properties, which calls for an efficient and convenient method for their synthesis. Here, we report a Cu‐catalyzed cross‐coupling method for the synthesis of diaryl sulfones from p‐toluenesulfonyl hydrazide and aryl boronic acids in the absence of an additional ligand. This synthesis procedure is characterized by the use of inexpensive and readily available starting materials, mild reaction conditions, and a broad functionality tolerance. Remarkably, various diaryl sulfones have been synthesized in very short reaction times with moderate to excellent yields.
Sleep reactivity mediates the relationship between sensory‐processing sensitivity and insomnia symptoms severity: A cross‐sectional correlational study
Authors: Pieroni Ilde , Raffone Antonino , Simione Luca
Published: July 2023

Sensory‐processing sensitivity (SPS) is a temperamental trait that describes individual differences in sensitivity to environmental stimuli. Previous studies have shown that highly sensitive individuals are more vulnerable to stress and to sleep‐related difficulties. In light of this evidence, we hypothesized that SPS is associated with an increase in insomnia symptoms and that this correlation would be mediated by increased perceived stress and sleep reactivity. To test this hypothesis, we conducted a cross‐sectional study on 358 adults who completed a survey that included self‐report measures of sensitivity, perceived stress, sleep reactivity, and insomnia symptoms. Correlation analysis revealed that SPS was positively related to both stress‐related and sleep‐related variables. We then conducted a mediation analysis, which revealed that SPS was positively related to insomnia symptoms and that this relationship was fully mediated by sleep reactivity but not mediated at all by perceived stress. The current findings suggest that sleep reactivity may contribute to the development of insomnia symptoms in highly sensitive individuals. Therefore, these results suggests that sleep reactivity should be assessed in highly sensitive individuals and that it could be important to evaluate and further study this relationship.
High Curvature PEDOT:PSS Transport Layer Toward Enhanced Perovskite Light‐Emitting Diodes
Authors: Zeng Xiankan , Yan Cheng , Wang Qungui , Cao Jingjing , Fu Xuehai , Yang Shiyu , Chen Yongjian , Pan Lunyao , Li Wen , Yang Weiqing
Published: July 2023

The rapidly developed metal halide perovskite light‐emitting diodes (PeLEDs) are considered as a promising candidate for next‐generation display and illumination, but the unbalanced charge transport is still a hard‐treat case to restrict its efficiency and operational stability. Here, a high curvature PEDOT:PSS transport layer is demonstrated via the self‐assembly island‐like structures by the incorporation of alkali metal salts. Benefiting from the dielectric confinement effect of the high curvature surface, the modified CsPbBr3‐based PeLEDs present a 2.1 times peak external quantum efficiency (EQE) from 6.75% to 14.23% and a 3.3 times half lifetime (T50) from 3.96 to 13.01 h. Besides, the PeLEDs show high luminance up to 44834 cd m−2. Evidently, this work may provide a deep insight into the structure‐activity relationship between the micro‐structures at the PEDOT:PSS/perovskite interface and the performance of PeLEDs, and crack the codes for ameliorating the performance of PeLEDs via interfacial micro‐structured regulation.
Spineless cactus cladode is a viable replacement to barley and maize grains in the feed rations of dromedary camel calves
Authors: Alkhtib Ashraf , Muna Muhannad , Darag Mohammad , Alkhalid Iyad , Al‐asa'ad Ziad , Mfeshi Hanaa , Zayod Roba , Burton Emily
Published: July 2023

Background

No studies determined the use of spineless cactus cladodes in camel diets.

Objectives

The effect of replacing the main energy source in camel diets with fresh spineless cactus cladodes on growth performance was determined. Furthermore, the ability of morphology to predict cladodes yield was determined.

Methods

A prediction model of spineless cactus cladode weight based on cladode volume was developed. Three cladodes per plants were randomly selected from 100 plants. Weight and volume were then recorded for each cladode. Sixteen male camel calves (196 ± 18.2 kg live weight and 430 ± 5.55 days of age) were allotted to treatments, control (conventional camel fattening diet based on cotton seed hulls, cereal grains and agro‐industrial by‐products) or cactus (barley and maize grains in the control diet were replaced totally by fresh cactus cladode on dry matter basis). The study contained a 100‐days growth trial and a 21‐day digestibility trial (15 days of adaptation and 7 days of faeces collection). Blood samples were collected monthly from each animal.

Results

Cactus cladode volume predicted the dry weight with a high accuracy (prediction error = 3.5%). Nutrient intake and nutrient digestibility did not significantly differ among the dietary treatments (p > 0.05). The treatment significantly decreased feed conversion ratio by 1.52 points (p < 0.05). All blood parameters were within the normal range of dromedary camels.

Conclusions

Spineless cactus cladode is a potential replacement to the conventional energy sources in dromedary camel diets.
Interaction among interfacial offset cracks in composite materials under the anti‐plane shear loading
Authors: Tanwar Anshika , Das Subir , Craciun Eduard‐Marius , Altenbach Holm
Published: July 2023

The present article considers an anti‐plane stress problem of three cracks at different orthotropic materials' interfaces. According to the geometry of the problem, the governing equations and mixed boundary conditions have been formulated. Fourier integral transformation is used to convert the mixed boundary value problem into dual integral equations, which gives two equations containing infinite series. The investigation of the problem concerning anti‐plane cracks subjected to static loadings is done with the help of the Schmidt method to satisfy the given boundary conditions. The difference in displacements is expanded to proceed further in the problem, which becomes zero outside the cracks. Numerical computations are carried out for the graphical representation of stress intensity factors (SIFs) at all cracks' tips. The Interaction among the cracks as those are in close proximity to each other or move away are represented pictorially. Detailed numerical results and discussion are done for the considered materials, which include aluminium, epoxy and graphite epoxy. The novelty of the present article is the numerical analysis and pictorial presentation of SIFs at the tips of interfacial offset parallel cracks for various crack lengths and normalised heights for different combinations of materials. The authors have obtained variations in SIFs for the cracks at the interfaces of dissimilar composite materials.