bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Working with community fishers to determine the spawning seasonality of two commonly targeted jack species
Authors: Pardee Cassandra , Wiley John , Fendrick Taylor
Published: October 2023

Objective

To determine the spawning seasonality of two highly targeted jacks (Carangidae; Giant Trevally [known in Hawai’i as ulua aukea] Caranx ignobilis and Bluefin Trevally [known in Hawai’i as ‘ōmilu] Caranx melampygus) within Hawai’i through a collaborative effort with local fishers.

Methods

By working with volunteer fishers, we collected gonad samples for Giant and Bluefin trevally throughout a 15-month period on four of the main Hawaiian Islands. Spawning seasonality was assessed using histological gonad samples as well as mean monthly gonadosomatic index (GSI).

Result

Fishery involvement proved successful in collecting biological samples needed to understand the spawning seasonality of these species. Participants were able to macroscopically identify when females were spawning versus undeveloped following initial instruction from the researchers. Mature female GSI resulted in similar conclusions as histological analyses. Both species had a spawning season between February and September, with peak spawning occurring from May to July. During the spawning months, a semilunar spawning pattern was observed for Giant Trevally with peak GSI occurring shortly before the full moon. Bluefin Trevally had higher variability, with no distinct lunar periodicity.

Conclusion

Training fishers to be a part of the scientific process and collect gonad samples created trust in science and interest in learning more about the biology of their catch. By consistently sharing our progress and results through social media we were able to engage and build trust with the greater fishing community.
Active and Passive Cycling Decrease Subthalamic β Oscillations in Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Bougou Vasiliki , Vanhoyland Michaël , Decramer Thomas , Van Hoylandt Anaïs , Smeijers Steven , Nuttin Bart , De Vloo Philippe , Vandenberghe Wim , Nieuwboer Alice , Janssen Peter , Theys Tom
Published: October 2023

Background

Preserved cycling capabilities in patients with Parkinson's disease, especially in those with freezing of gait are still poorly understood. Previous research with invasive local field potential recordings in the subthalamic nucleus has shown that cycling causes a stronger suppression of β oscillations compared to walking, which facilitates motor continuation.

Methods

We recorded local field potentials from 12 patients with Parkinson's disease (six without freezing of gait, six with freezing of gait) who were bilaterally implanted with deep brain stimulation electrodes in the subthalamic nucleus. We investigated β (13–30 Hz) and high γ (60–100 Hz) power during both active and passive cycling with different cadences and compared patients with and without freezing of gait. The passive cycling experiment, where a motor provided a fixed cadence, allowed us to study the effect of isolated sensory inputs without physical exercise.

Results

We found similarly strong suppression of pathological β activity for both active and passive cycling. In contrast, there was stronger high γ band activity for active cycling. Notably, the effects of active and passive cycling were all independent of cadence. Finally, β suppression was stronger for patients with freezing of gait, especially during passive cycling.

Conclusions

Our results provide evidence for a link between proprioceptive input during cycling and β suppression. These findings support the role of continuous external sensory input and proprioceptive feedback during rhythmic passive cycling movements and suggest that systematic passive mobilization might hold therapeutic potential. © 2023 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
The iterative generalized quasi‐boundary value method for an inverse source problem of time fractional diffusion‐wave equation in a cylinder
Authors: Shi Chengxin , Cheng Hao , Lyu Kaiyu
Published: October 2023

This paper is devoted to solve an inverse source problem of time fractional diffusion‐wave equation in a cylinder. The ill‐posedness, existence, and uniqueness of the inverse source problem are proved. We propose an iterative generalized quasi‐boundary value regularization method to deal with the inverse source problem. The convergence rates of the regularized solution are obtained under the a priori regularization parameter choice rule and the a posteriori regularization parameter choice rule. Numerical examples are presented to show the validity and stability of the proposed method.
Exposure to written content eliciting weight stigmatization: Neural responses in appetitive and food reward regions
Authors: Anguah Katherene O. B. , Christ Shawn E.
Published: October 2023

Objective

Neural activity in food reward‐ and appetite‐related regions was examined in response to high‐calorie (HC), low‐calorie, and non‐food pictures after exposure to written weight stigma (WS) content. Relationships with eating behavior (by Three‐Factor Eating Questionnaire [TFEQ]), blood glucose, and subjective appetite were also explored.

Methods

Adults with overweight and obesity were randomized to read either a WS (n = 20) or control (n = 20) article and subsequently underwent brain scans while they rated pleasantness of food pictures. Fasting glucose, TFEQ, stigma experiences, and appetite were measured before reading the article, appetite after reading, and glucose and appetite again after the scan.

Results

A priori region of interest analyses revealed significant group differences in activation to HC > low‐calorie food cues in the caudate and thalamus whereas exploratory whole‐brain analyses suggested significant differences in regions including left insula, left thalamus, left inferior temporal gyrus, right lingual gyrus, and bilateral middle occipital gyrus and superior parietal lobule (p < 0.005 uncorrected, k ≥ 200 m3). No significant relationships were observed between the pattern of activation and TFEQ, glucose, or subjective appetite in the WS group.

Conclusions

Exposure to WS was associated with increased responsiveness to HC food content in the dorsal striatum and thalamus in individuals with overweight and obesity.
On different classes of constitutive descriptions in finite electro‐mechanics: Computational modelling of isotropic and anisotropic electro‐active materials
Authors: Kanan Anas , Kaliske Michael
Published: October 2023

Various constitutive formulations can be employed to simulate the coupled behaviour of electro‐active polymers (EAP). Those distinct mathematical descriptions vary with respect to the manner in which the electric field is coupled to the deformation. However, in principle, they are all capable of emulating the finite coupled response of EAP. The underlying coupling mechanism of largely deformable materials can be identified through experimental characterization. This contribution addresses the constitutive and finite element modelling of the actuation response of both isotropic and anisotropic EAP, where different material formulations are considered and implemented within a finite element framework. Those various material formulations are mathematically treated and employed to simulate electro‐mechanical experiments of dielectric materials. Existing coupled electro‐mechanical tests of active materials are referred to, where it is sought to employ different constitutive models to fit the experimental observations. Within the undertaken study, the capability of different descriptions to predict electro‐mechanical instabilities is evaluated. Regarding the numerical implementation of the model, it is referred to an electro‐mechanical Q1P0 finite element formulation. After performing the study and fitting experimental results associated to isotropic materials, the actuation response of several anisotropic EAP‐based structures is emulated.
In‐vitro and bio‐electrochemical characteristics of phytochemical enriched Co3O4 nanoparticles loaded biomimetic scaffold for preclinical analysis
Authors: Savitha S. , Surendhiran S. , Balu K. S. , Karthik A.
Published: October 2023

The work aims for biomimetic fabrication of Moringa oleifera seed (MOS) extract‐mediated cobalt oxide nanoparticles (Co3O4 NPs) with chitosan‐sodium alginate scaffolds by solvent casting. Distinct concentrations of green synthesized Co3O4 nanoparticles were combined to fabricate scaffolds. XRD analysis revealed the cubic structure with an average crystallite size of 18.83 nm. Smaller particle size, spherical morphology, and the presence of organic MOS extract had a substantial impact on the physio‐chemical properties of Co3O4 NPs. In‐vitro bioactivity Co3O4 NPs and nanoparticles anchored scaffolds were determined using simulated body fluid (SBF) through HAP formation. The scaffolds' swelling, protein absorption behavior and bio‐electrochemical analysis were evaluated under PBS. The antibacterial activity of Co3O4 NPs/scaffolds was more effective against Gram‐positive bacterial strains than Gram‐negative ones due to the increased production of ROS. In‐vitro cytotoxicity of the synthesized Co3O4 NPs and scaffolds was tested against the MCF‐7 cell line using an MTT assay. These studies demonstrate that the Co3O4 NPs/scaffolds have excellent physico‐chemical characteristics that increase in‐vitro biocompatibility. Furthermore, impedance and LSV studies showed that biomimetic CSA 200 electrolytes extend host tissue's regenerative compatibility. Also, the anticancer and antibacterial properties of biomimetic scaffold enabled Co3O4 nanoparticles to retain their required biomaterial characteristics for tissue engineering applications.
Characterisation and identification of chemical constituents in aqueous extract of Fomes officinalis Ames based on ultrahigh‐performance liquid chromatography tandem quadrupole‐Orbitrap high‐resolution mass spectrometry
Authors: Zhang Hongyan , Aisa Haji Akber , Liu Yongqiang , Tohtahon Zeynep , Xin Xuelei , Abdulla Rahima
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Fungal species are an attractive resource for physiologically functional food and drug precursor. Fomes officinalis Ames, a medicinal fungus, is traditionally used as a folk medicine in traditional Chinese medicine prescription for the therapy of cough and asthma. The water‐soluble substances in Chinese herbal medicines are likely to play an important physiological function. However, information on probing and identifying chemical components of the aqueous extract of Fomes officinalis Ames (AFO) remains unknown.

Objective

This study was conducted to screen and characterise the chemical components of AFO.

Material and Methods

An effective and sensitive ultrahigh‐performance liquid chromatography tandem quadrupole‐Orbitrap high‐resolution mass spectrometry (UHPLC‐Q‐Orbitrap‐HRMS) method with the Full MS/PIL/dd‐MS2 acquisition approach was applied for the profiling of chemical components in AFO. An HSS T3 column was used for component separation, and a strategy of simultaneous targeted and untargeted multicomponent characterisation was implemented. Multiple identification approaches were used, including accurate molecular mass and elemental composition matching, literature and database searching, and fragmentation rules elucidation.

Results

A total of 115 components, including 20 amino acids and derivatives, six nucleobases, nine nucleosides, 75 dipeptides, two tripeptides, and three other components, were tentatively identified. Among them, the targeted exploring method screened six nucleobases and nine nucleosides including modified nucleosides. To our best knowledge, this is the first time a report has been done on the presence of the 115 compounds in AFO.

Conclusion

Profiling and characterisation compounds of AFO enriched its material basis, which would lay the foundation for improving potential medicinal and nutritional values and effecting comprehensive quality control of Fomes officinalis Ames.
A network pharmacology approach to explore the molecular mechanism of active peptide ingredients of Carapax Trionycis on liver fibrosis
Authors: Yan Zhibin , Zhao Guangyu , Lin Qihao , Zhuang Guiping , Zhu Jiayi , Jin Juan
Published: October 2023

Carapax Trionycis is a traditional Chinese medicine and it has been clear that oligo‐peptides from Carapax Trionycis extract (CTP) are the main active substances for the treatment of liver diseases. However, little is known about the mechanism of CTP against liver fibrosis. Here, network pharmacology combined with molecular docking were performed to identify the in‐silico molecular mechanism and the potential targets for CTP to ameliorate liver fibrosis. We collected eight active peptides ingredients that published in public databases and predicted the targets. Liver fibrosis related genes were acquired from the GeneCards and DisGeNET platform. Then, we identified a total of 52 peptides‐liver fibrosis‐related genes. KEGG and GO enrichment analyses indicated that these targets are significantly enriched in relaxin signaling pathway, IL‐17 signaling pathway, TNF signaling pathway. We identified the top 10 genes with high centrality measures from the network by CytoHubba, including CASP3, AKT1, IL1B, MMP9, and PTGS2. The molecular docking between these hub genes and the corresponding CTP was performed in GRAMM and visualized by PyMOL. Our results provide an important reference and scientific basis for treating liver fibrosis with CTP.
Auxetic and Non‐Auxetic Metamaterial Model from Interconnected Rotating Parallelograms and Triangles
Authors: Lim Teik-Cheng
Published: October 2023

This article reports the design of a metamaterial model—made from interconnected units of rotating parallelograms and triangles—in which its Poisson's ratio can range from positive to negative by changing the internal angles between the rotating units. The on‐axes Poisson's ratios are established via geometrical construction while the on‐axes Young's moduli are extracted using energy approach. Results indicate that the metamaterial model manifests auxetic behavior for small and large internal angles, but non‐auxetic properties for intermediate range of internal angle. The results also reveal that a wide range of on‐axes Young's modulus can be adjusted by controlling the internal angle. A sustainable feature of this metamaterial model is its convenient adjustment of the effective mechanical properties over a wide range in order to be redeployed for different applications throughout its entire lifetime.
A new way to understand migration routes of oceanic squid (Ommastrephidae) from satellite data
Authors: Ji Fei , Guo Xinyu
Published: October 2023

Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite (VIIRS) Boat Detection (VBD) data have been widely used to study the patterns of fishing grounds and their linking to fishery targets, particularly species mainly caught by jiggers. In line with most species in the Ommastrephidae family, the population of Todarodes pacificus is made up of various splinter cohorts concerning the timing and location of hatching. Therefore, the satellite‐recorded fishing grounds consist of groups with complex age structures and different migration directions within cohorts. This study examined the age composition of harvestable stocks (age spectrum) of T. pacificus in the Japan Sea based on an early life history individual‐based model of T. pacificus and VBD data. Using the age spectrum, we analysed the relationship between fishery effort and the age of the target group. It was found that jiggers most prefer individuals around 310 ± 20 days. Furthermore, the correlation between ambient water temperature and fishing effort revealed that T. pacificus migrated to colder waters, reaching the coldest waters at 250 ± 7.5 days before moving back towards warmer waters. We discussed a possible way to use the age‐temperature relationship to analyse the flow of VBD distributions to record the movements related to the migration of the fishing target. The results show migration‐like trajectories, which are initially parallel to the isotherm, gradually deflect towards lower temperature sides over several months, sharply turn for about a month and then move back with a slight angle to the isotherms. The method provides a potential framework to improve our understanding of the active migration of oceanic squid.
Ascorbic Acid‐Capped Copper Nanoclusters: A Turn‐On Fluorescence Sensor for Biliverdin
Authors: Ravindran Devika Sudha , Mukundan Swathi , Kumar Krishnapillai Girish
Published: October 2023

A simple and facile turn‐on fluorescence sensor has been developed for the effective determination of an important bile pigment‐ Biliverdin (BVD), using ascorbic acid capped copper nanoclusters (AA CuNCs). This yellow colored, biocompatible material exhibits emission maximum at 445 nm on an excitation wavelength of 365 nm. The fluorescence intensity of AA CuNCs was enhanced efficiently in presence of BVD within the linear range 1.00×10−5 M to 2.00×10−6 M with a limit of detection 2.88×10−7 M. An aggregation induced emission enhancement (AIEE) mechanism was suggested for the sensor. Practical utility of the proposed sensor has been validated in artificial urine and blood serum.
A Novel and Convenient Sol‐Gel Approach for the Synthesis of High‐Performance LiNi1/3Co1/3Mn1/3O2 Cathode Materials in Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Han Qing , Bao Chenguang , Xu Yongyi , Xie Lingling , Xiao Yongmei , Qiu Xuejing , Zhu Limin , Yang Xinli , Cao Xiaoyu
Published: October 2023

The development of high‐performance cathode materials for next‐generation lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) is urgently needed. Among the potential cathode candidates, ternary layer oxide LiNi1/3Co1/3Mn1/3O2 (LNCM) has attracted considerable attention due to its high voltage discharge, large theoretical specific capacity, stable chemical structure and low cost. However, Li+/Ni2+ cation mixing and low conductivity have resulted in poor long‐term cyclability, voltage drop and capacity degradation during high‐rate charging. To address these issues, a sol‐gel technique together with an annealing treatment was used to prepare LNCM with well‐defined structure and good morphology. The material obtained by heating the LNCM precursor at 850 °C for 12 h (LNCM‐850/12) exhibited an initial discharge specific capacity of 217.9 mAh g−1 at 0.2 C and maintained a high reversible capacity of 116.1 mAh g−1 after 200 cycles. The LNCM‐850/12 electrode also demonstrated superior rate capacity and exceptional cycling stability due to its well‐defined structure, low Li+/Ni2+ cation mixing and good morphology. These characteristics improve the electrical/ionic conductivity, reduce the charge transfer resistance and shorten the Li+ diffusion distance, ultimately accelerating the Li+ insertion and extraction. Overall, the careful control of calcination time in LNCM synthesis provides valuable insights for the development of advanced cathodes for LIBs.
A 3D Lithiophilic Host for Dendrite‐Free Lithium Metal Anode via One‐Step Carbonization of an Energetic Metal‐Organic Framework
Authors: Song Manrong , Li Yang , Gao Lei , Zhao Ruo , Xu Yifan , Han Songbai , Zhu Jinlong , Wang Liping , Zhao Yusheng
Published: October 2023

Low Coulombic efficiency (CE) and safety issues are huge problems that hinder the practical application of Li metal anodes. Constructing Li host structures decorated with functional species can restrain the growth of Li dendrites and alleviate the great volume change. Here, a 3D porous carbonaceous skeleton modified with rich lithiophilic groups (Zn, ZnO, and Zn(CN)2) is synthesized as a Li host via one‐step carbonization of a triazole‐containing metal‐organic framework. The nano lithiophilic groups serve as preferred sites for Li nucleation and growth, regulating a uniform Li+ flux and uniform current density distribution. In addition, the 3D porous network functions as a Li reservoir that provides rich internal space to store Li, thus alleviating the volumetric expansion during Li plating/stripping process. Thanks to these component and structural merits, an ultra‐low overpotential for Li deposition is achieved, together with high CE of over 99.5% for more than 500 cycles at 1 mA cm−2 and 1 mAh cm−2 in half cells. The symmetric cells exhibit a prolonged cycling of 900 h at 1 mA cm−2. The full cells by coupling Zn/ZnO/Zn(CN)2@C‐Li anode with LiFePO4 cathode deliver a high capacity retention of 94.3% after 200 cycles at 1 C.
Global implications of student affairs competencies and standards
Authors: West Andrew , Henning Gavin
Published: October 2023

In this article, we provide an overview of the current and emerging professional competencies for student affairs professionals around the world, highlighting those from the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Botswana. We compare and contrast competencies from these countries and conclude with implications for the student affairs profession globally.
Perspectives from across the globe
Authors: Moscaritolo Lisa Bardill
Published: October 2023

Organized to correspond to the seven regions of the International Association of Student Affairs and Services (IASAS), this section of the monograph illustrates the capacity building of over 50 associations that significantly influence the local, regional, and global practice, theory, frameworks, and scholarship of Student Affairs and Services (SAS). The aims of IASAS and its impact on internationalization and professionalization are introduced along with a summary of the associations’ reports. Authors for each regional perspective were chosen for their expertise in shaping student affairs and services practices locally and internationally.
Perspectives from the North America and the Caribbean Region
Authors: Seifert Tricia , Shea Robert , Huggins Jacqueline , Newman David
Published: October 2023

Student affairs and services has a long history in higher education and associations followed suit to assist in the efforts of professionalization. This region differs in that in the US and Canada there are many specialized associations for certain functions in SAS but this report examines the works of four of the most established associations in three countries.
A critical analysis from the Global South on student affairs as a profession
Authors: Wildschut Angelique , Luescher Thierry M.
Published: October 2023

This article discusses the nature of the student affairs professionalization project, by analyzing the discourses evident in and legitimized through the Journal of Student Affairs in Africa (JSAA). The analysis is driven by three research questions: What is the extent of the journal's engagement with the terms profession, professionalism, professional, and professionalization? How are these terms used in the journal and how do these uses relate to the social justice imperative in Student Affairs and Services (SAS)? Overall, we find a stronger social justice discourse in comparison to the discourse on SAS as a profession. Furthermore, the professionalization discourse draws strongly on notions of professional traits and high‐level knowledge and skills. Finally, this article considers opportunities for a scholarship on the development of SAS as a profession and further theoretical development of the Sociology of Professions (SoP) from the Global South.
Simultaneous estimation of propyphenazone, flurbiprofen, and their mutual prodrug by high‐performance liquid chromatography method
Authors: Patel Zanza , Tandel Falguni , Tripathi Rati Kailash Prasad
Published: October 2023

The current work comprises of development of a simple, rapid, and precise reverse phase‐high‐performance liquid chromatography method for simultaneous estimation of propyphenazone, flurbiprofen, and their mutual prodrug. Column C18 (Shimadzu Shim‐pack Gist, 250 × 4.6 mm, 5 μm) was employed as a stationary phase, and the ratio of acetonitrile:methanol:water (40:40:20 %v/v) was used as the mobile phase. The flow rate was held at 1 mL/min and detection was carried out at 245 nm using an ultraviolet detector. The retention time of propyphenazone, flurbiprofen, and their mutual prodrug was found to be 4.0, 2.5, and 10.0 min, respectively. The proposed method was validated according to the International Council on Harmonization Q2(R1) guideline in terms of accuracy, precision, linearity, limit of detection, limit of quantitation, and solution stability. Calibration plots were linear over the concentration ranges of 2–10 μg/mL (R2 = 0.9998, R2 = 0.9992 and R2 = 0.9994 for propyphenazone, flurbiprofen, and their mutual prodrug, respectively). Results of mean percentage recoveries were in the range of 99.6%–100.1% for flurbiprofen, 99.3%–100.2% for propyphenazone, and 99.9%–100.7% for prodrug, respectively. The developed method can be used for the assay of mutual prodrug and drug release study of the developed mutual prodrug also routine quality control evaluation of mutual prodrug in bulk form.
Physicochemical and biological characteristics of River Hindon at Galheta station from 2009 to 2020
Authors: Singh Bhanu Pratap , Choudhury Moharana , Gupta Piyush , Chadha Utkarsh , Zewude Dinaol
Published: October 2023

This study aimed to assess the physicochemical and biological attributes of water in the Hindon River, located in Northern India and traversing through the districts of Saharanpur, Muzaffarnagar, Meerut, Baghpat, Ghaziabad, and Gautam Buddha Nagar. The study specifically examined crucial parameters, including Dissolved Oxygen (DO), Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD), Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD), Total Alkalinity (TA), Sulphate (SO42−), Total Dissolved Solids (TDS), and the biological parameter, that is, Total Coliform. Data for these characteristics of the Hindon River were collected and analyzed based on measurements obtained at the Galheta station in District Baghpat, from 2009 to 2020. The study revealed significant yearly fluctuations in water quality parameters. DO (0.15–9 mg/L) and Total Coliform (319.09 MPN/100 mL to 23 × 106 MPN/100 mL) levels represented the most significant variations, while BOD (30.65–81.54 mg/L) and COD (80.08–170 mg/L) values consistently exceeded acceptable thresholds. TA (151.883–444.86 mg/L) had persistently fallen short of minimum standards, whereas SO42− (24.756–77.441 mg/L) remained within permissible limits. TDS (619–924.16 mg/L) consistently adhered to water quality standards. The findings indicated that the Hindon River's water quality consistently fell into the categories D or E as per Bureau of Indian Standards (IS: 2296) and Class III or IV according to the UNECE (United Nations Economic Commission for Europe) standards and failed to meet the stipulated criteria outlined in BIS (IS: 2490) and had fallen short of the water quality standards established by the World Health Organization (WHO). A correlation coefficient matrix was generated to assess the relationships among the mentioned parameters. The research findings emphasize the need for continuous monitoring of Hindon River water to protect the health of aquatic ecosystems and human well‐being.
Beetle decline not a dung deal
Authors: Loeb Josh
Published: October 2023

Dung beetle populations are decreasing in the UK but, as Josh Loeb explains, vets can help support these important ecosystem engineers.
The help my family pets received from a national charity shaped my career journey
Authors: Scowen Laura
Published: October 2023

Laura Scowen was inspired by the support PDSA gave to her family's pets in her childhood to become a vet herself – and has come full circle to work at one of the charity's London branches.
The effect of different levels of vitamin C and chromium on growth performance, carcass characteristics, digestive organs, immunity, blood constituents, liver enzymes, cecal microflora, meat sensory taste and fatty acid profile of breast meat in broilers
Authors: Nadaf Fahmideh Matin , Seidavi Alireaza , Bouyeh Mehrdad
Published: October 2023

Background

Antioxidants such as vitamin C (VC) and chromium (Cr), which effectively scavenge free radicals, may improve functional characteristics of the intestine and may reduce intestinal diseases. Cr absorption increases in the presence of VC. In poultry, VC is mainly derived from glucose; hence, Cr is an important component for glucose tolerance. We evaluated the synergistic effects of these two antioxidants together.

Objectives

This study aims to investigate two levels of VC and two levels of Cr and their interaction on growth performance, carcass characteristics, digestive organs, immunity, blood constituents, liver enzymes, cecal microflora, meat sensory taste and fatty acid profile of breast meat in broilers.

Methods

Two levels of VC (250 and 500 mg/kg dry matter [DM]) and two levels of Cr (700 and 1400 μg/kg DM) were added to a basic diet for 42 days in five treatments. The 2 × 2 plus 1 (control group) factorial experiment was performed in a completely randomised design for 42 days using 360 one‐day‐old male chicks.

Results

Very low‐density lipoprotein, high‐density lipoprotein, low‐density lipoprotein, total cholesterol and triglyceride level, liver enzymes, antibody titer against sheep red blood cells, fat content, odour, chewing ability, elasticity and oral sensation traits were affected by combination of VC and Cr.

Conclusions

Combination of VC and Cr can increase unsaturated fatty acids and decrease saturated fatty acids, as well as improve cecal microbial flora, and may be useful as antioxidant compounds and non‐antimicrobial stimulants for economic growth. The use of 250 mg/kg of VC and 700 μg/kg of Cr is recommended in broiler diets.
Recent advances in deep learning for retrosynthesis
Authors: Zhong Zipeng , Song Jie , Feng Zunlei , Liu Tiantao , Jia Lingxiang , Yao Shaolun , Hou Tingjun , Song Mingli
Published: October 2023

Retrosynthesis is the cornerstone of organic chemistry, providing chemists in material and drug manufacturing access to poorly available and brand‐new molecules. Conventional rule‐based or expert‐based computer‐aided synthesis has obvious limitations, such as high labor costs and limited search space. In recent years, dramatic breakthroughs driven by deep learning have revolutionized retrosynthesis. Here we aim to present a comprehensive review of recent advances in AI‐based retrosynthesis. For single‐step and multi‐step retrosynthesis both, we first introduce their goal and provide a thorough taxonomy of existing methods. Afterwards, we analyze these methods in terms of their mechanism and performance, and introduce popular evaluation metrics for them, in which we also provide a detailed comparison among representative methods on several public datasets. In the next part, we introduce popular databases and established platforms for retrosynthesis. Finally, this review concludes with a discussion about promising research directions in this field.

This article is categorized under:

Data Science > Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning

Data Science > Computer Algorithms and Programming

Data Science > Chemoinformatics
Mit künstlicher Intelligenz schneller zur Diagnose seltener Erkrankungen – ein Gebot der Ethik, Ökonomie und Lebensqualität
Authors: Völkel Lukas , Wagner Annette D.
Published: October 2023

Hintergrund

Weltweit leiden etwa 300 Mio. Menschen an einer seltenen Erkrankung. Eine optimale Therapie setzt eine erfolgreiche Diagnose voraus. Diese dauert bei seltenen Erkrankungen besonders lange. Digitale Diagnoseunterstützungssysteme könnten zukünftig wichtige Helfer bei der Beschleunigung einer erfolgreichen Diagnose sein.

Ziel der Arbeit

Die aktuellen Möglichkeiten digitaler Diagnoseunterstützungssysteme in der Diagnostik seltener Erkrankungen und noch zu klärende Fragestellungen sollen in Bezug auf die Parameter Ethik, Ökonomie und Lebensqualität dargelegt werden.

Material und Methoden

Aktuelle Forschungsergebnisse des Autorenteams werden im Kontext aktueller Literatur zusammengetragen und diskutiert. Anhand eines Fallbeispiels wird das Potenzial digitaler Diagnoseunterstützungssysteme erläutert.

Ergebnisse

Digitale Diagnoseunterstützungssysteme und Expert:innen zusammen können die erfolgreiche Diagnose bei Patient:innen mit seltener Erkrankung beschleunigen. Dies könnte positive Auswirkungen auf die Lebensqualität der Patient:innen haben und zu Einsparungspotenzial bei den direkten und indirekten Kosten im Gesundheitssystem führen.

Schlussfolgerung

Die Gewährleistung von Datensicherheit, Rechtssicherheit und Funktionalität bei der Verwendung digitaler Diagnoseunterstützungssysteme ist von hoher Bedeutung, wenn Vertrauen bei Expert:innen und Patient:innen geschaffen werden soll. Eine stetige Weiterentwicklung der Systeme mittels künstlicher Intelligenz könnte zukünftig auch Patient:innen dazu befähigen, die Diagnosefindung aktiv zu unterstützen.
Suicide risk following ED presentation with self-harm varies by hospital
Authors: Murphy Siobhan , Ross Emma , O’Hagan Denise , Maguire Aideen , O’Reilly Dermot
Published: October 2023

Background

Patients presenting to Emergency Department (ED) with self-harm are recognized to be at high risk of suicide and other causes of death in the immediate period following ED presentation. It is also recognized that there is a large variation in the management and care pathways that these patients experience at EDs.

Aims

This study asks if there is a significant variation in mortality risk according to hospital attended and if this is explained by differences in care management.

Methods

Population-wide data from the Northern Ireland Registry of Self-Harm from April 2012 were linked with centrally held mortality records to December 2019, providing data on self-harm type and ED care. Cox proportional hazards models analyzed mortality risk, coded as suicide, all-external causes and all-cause mortality.

Results

Analysis of the 64,350 ED presentations for self-harm by 30,011 individuals confirmed a marked variation across EDs in proportion of patients receiving mental health assessment and likelihood of admission to general and psychiatric wards. There was a significant variation in suicide risk following attendance according to ED attended with the three-fold range between the lowest (HRadj 0.32 95% CIs 0.16, 0.67) and highest. These differences persisted even after adjustment for patient characteristics, variation in types of self-harm, and care management at the ED.

Conclusions

This study suggests that while the management of self-harm cases in the ED is important, it is the availability and access to, and level of engagement with, the subsequent management and care in the community rather than the immediate care at EDs that is most critical for patients presenting to ED with self-harm. However, the initial care in ED is an important gateway in initiating referrals to these services.
Tracing tiger nut (C. esculentus L.): functional food from the colossal Cyperus genus
Authors: Wetters Sascha , Häser Annette , Ehrlich Tizian , Scheitle Carina , Nick Peter
Published: October 2023

Tiger nuts (also called earth almonds orchufa) are the stolons of the sedgeCyperus esculentusL. and have been traditionally used as food or as an additive to drinks such ashorchata de chufa. Recently,chufaexperienced a hype as functional food because of its richness in dietary fiber and as a source of unsaturated fatty acids. Its close relative, nutgrass (Cyperus rotundusL.) has similarly long history of human use, but rather for medical purposes, due to a high content of secondary compounds. Both species are invasive weeds responsible for high yield losses in crop plants, especially in Southeast Asia, Africa, and subtropical America. They are not easily discerned, occur together, and are both traded under similar or identical vernacular names. For the purpose of consumer protection, it is important to discriminate them in commercial samples, which is not trivial by morphological markers and often impossible since they are mostly used in highly processed form. Therefore, a molecular authentication assay was developed using taxonomically authenticated plants as reference material. The plastidic markerpsbA-trnH igs(intergenic spacer) and the nuclear markerInternally Transcribed Spacerwere used for barcoding. To develop a sequencing-free fingerprinting assay, a single-nucleotide polymorphism in theITS2region could be employed to discriminateC. esculentusfrom its possible adulterantC. rotundusby a tailored Amplificatory Refractory Mutation System PCR. This approach was successful both, in reference to plants, as well as in highly processed commercial products such as tiger nut flour. We show that by a single PCR we can detect surrogation by nutgrass down to a threshold of 10% in tiger nuts as contribution to safeguard product authenticity against possible adulterations in a growing global market.
Joint preservation surgery for correcting adolescents’ spasmodic flatfoot deformity: early results from a specialized North African foot and ankle unit
Authors: Fadle Amr A. , Khalifa Ahmed A. , Bahy Ahmed , El-Gammal Yousif T. , Abubeih Hossam , El-Adly Wael , Osman Ahmed E.
Published: October 2023

Purpose

We aimed to report early results of performing joint-preserving surgeries for managing spasmodic flatfoot deformity (SFFD) in adolescents.

Methods

A prospective case series study including 24 patients (27 feet) diagnosed with idiopathic SFFD not responding to conservative management. After reassessment under anesthesia, surgical procedures included soft tissue releases (Achilles tendon (AT), peroneus brevis (PB), peroneus tertius (PT) (if present), and extensor digitorum longus (EDL)), bony osteotomies (lateral column lengthening (LCL), medial displacement calcaneal osteotomy (MDCO), and double calcaneal osteotomy (DCO)), and medial soft tissue reconstruction or augmentation if needed. Functional evaluation was performed per the American Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) score, while radiological parameters included talo-navicular coverage angle (TNCA), talo-first metatarsal angle (AP Meary’s angle), calcaneal inclination angle (CIA), talo-calcaneal angle (TCA), talo-first metatarsal angle (Lat. Meary’s angle), and tibio-calcaneal angle (TibCA). The preoperative parameters were compared to the last follow-up using the Wilcoxon signed test.

Results

The mean age was 15.37 ± 3.4 years, 18 (75%) were boys, and the mean BMI was 28.52 ± 3.5 (kg/m2). Release of AT and fractional lengthening of PL, PT, and EDL were performed in all patients. LCL was needed in eight feet (29.6%), MDCO in 5 (18.5%), and DCO in 14 (51.9%). FDL transfer was required in 12 (44.4%) feet, and repair of the spring ligament in seven (25.9%). The mean operative time was 99.09 ± 15.67 min. All osteotomies were united after a mean of 2.3 ± 0.5 months. After a mean follow-up of 24.12 ± 8.88 months (12 and 36 months), the AOFAS improved from a preoperative mean of 43.89 ± 11.49 to a mean of 87.26 ± 9.92 (P < 0.001). All radiological parameters showed significant improvement, AP Meary’s angle from a mean of 20.4 ± 5.3 to a mean of 9.2 ± 2.1, Lat. Meary’s angle from − 15.67° ± 6.31 to − 5.63° ± 5.03, TNCA from − 26.48° ± 5.94 to 13.63° ± 4.36, CIA from 12.04° ± 2.63 to 16.11° ± 3.71, TibCA from − 14.04° ± 3.15 to − 9.37° ± 3.34, and TCA Lat. from 42.65° ± 10.68 to 25.60° ± 5.69 (P ≤ 0.001). One developed wound dehiscence (over an MDCO), managed with daily dressings and local antibiotics. Another one developed lateral foot pain after having LCL managed by metal removal.

Conclusion

Careful clinical and radiological evaluation for the correct diagnosis of SFFD is paramount. Joint-preserving bony osteotomies combined with selective soft tissue procedures resulted in acceptable functional and radiological outcomes in this young age group.
‘That’s when I put it on’: stakeholder perspectives in large-scale remote health monitoring for older adults
Authors: Wróbel-Lachowska Magdalena , Dominiak Julia , Woźniak Mikołaj P. , Bartłomiejczyk Natalia , Diethei Daniel , Wysokińska Aleksandra , Niess Jasmin , Grudzień Krzysztof , Woźniak Paweł W. , Romanowski Andrzej
Published: October 2023

Remote health monitoring (RHM) provides various benefits to older adults, but its use is still limited. Remote monitoring may help in avoiding emergencies and prolong users’ independence. To understand how to design systems which support older adults, we studied a large-scale remote health monitoring system. The system used fitness-grade smartwatches to monitor the vital signs of more than 2000 users constantly. To probe the lived experience of using RHM, we conducted an explorative interview study (N = 41) with operators, carers, and users of the RHM system. Our thematic analysis reveals that personalisation of care ecology is crucial for developing users’ confidence and trust in the system. We found that participation in RHM may catalyse positive changes in older adults’ lifestyles. Based on our findings, we formulate five recommendations for designing future health monitoring systems. Our work contributes to insights into the lived experience and stakeholder ecology of health monitoring systems.
Overexpression of HSPB6 inhibits osteosarcoma progress through the ERK signaling pathway
Authors: Guo Liangyu , Xiao Kangwen , Xie Yuanlong , Yang Zhiqiang , Lei Jun , Cai Lin
Published: October 2023

Heat shock protein B6 (HSPB6) plays a certain role in the formation of several cancers, whereas its effect on osteosarcoma remains unclear. In this study, the effect of HSPB6 on osteosarcoma was validated through numerous experiments. HSPB6 was down-regulated in osteosarcoma. As indicated by the result of CCK-8 and colony formation assays, HSPB6 overexpression was likely to inhibit the osteosarcoma cells proliferation, whereas the flow cytometry analysis suggested that apoptosis of osteosarcoma cells was increased after HSPB6 overexpression. Furthermore, transwell and wound healing assays suggested that when HSPB6 was overexpressed, osteosarcoma cells migration and invasion were declined. Moreover, the western blotting assay suggested that the protein level of p-ERK1/2 was down-regulated in osteosarcoma when HSPB6 was overexpressed. Besides, the effect of HSPB6 on osteosarcoma in vivo was examined. As indicated by the result, HSPB6 overexpression was likely to prevent osteosarcoma growth and lung metastasis in vivo. As revealed by the findings of this study, HSPB6 overexpression exerted anticancer effects in osteosarcoma through the ERK signaling pathway and HSPB6 may be suitable target for osteosarcoma molecular therapies.
Female Affective Perception of Mainstream and Paraphilic Pornography: Associations with Sexual and Psychological Intrapersonal Variables
Authors: Prantner Sabine , Giménez-García Cristina , Espino-Payá Alejandro , Escrig Miguel A. , Fuentes-Sánchez Nieves , Ballester-Arnal Rafael , Pastor M. Carmen
Published: October 2023

Understanding affective perceptual processes can further contribute to the explanation of motivation and actions, as well as sexual risk behaviors. Pornography can be considered salient emotional content and is popular, also among females. Yet, the female perspective on pornography has often been overlooked and it remains unclear how individual variables may be associated with the affective perception of pornography and could provide a risk profile. Possible associations between several sexual and psychological intrapersonal variables and the affective perception of various forms of pornography were analyzed from the female perspective. A sample of 231 females (M = 21.87 years; SD = 3.9 years) provided ratings of affective valence, arousal, disgust, and moral and ethical acceptance for mainstream pornographic and paraphilic images of dominance, submission, or sexual violence. Paraphilic pornography was perceived as less pleasant, arousing, and moral and ethically acceptable, but more disgusting compared to mainstream pornography. This was more pronounced among females who had never consumed pornography. Results further suggest that the female affective perception of pornography was associated with the following sexual intrapersonal variables: sexual sensation seeking for physical sensations, erotophilia, lack of sexual control, problematic pornography consumption, and sexual disgust sensitivity. Of the assessed psychological intrapersonal variables, only anxiety was negatively associated with disgust for paraphilic pornography. It is important to further analyze the female affective perception of pornography and associated variables to include them in strategies for prevention and for addressing problematic consequences of the acceptance of specific sexual content and behaviors, especially related to sexualized violence.
Socio-spatial Inequities of Fire and Rescue Services in Sweden: An Analysis of Real and Estimated Response Times
Authors: Hassler Jacob , Andersson Granberg Tobias , Ceccato Vania
Published: October 2023

Lowering the response times of fire and rescue services (FRS) can reduce costs and the risk of fatalities in emergencies. Ensuring everyone can be reached by the FRS as quickly as possible is therefore a key objective for planners, who often rely on estimated response times to know where response times are long. To be reliable, such estimations need to be validated against real response times. Therefore, this study investigates the spatial patterns of FRS in Sweden in 2018, and compares how estimated and real response times correspond, as well as what factors explain under- or overestimation of the real times. Network analysis performed in a Geographical Information System (GIS) and regression modelling underpin the methodology. In most FRS events (81.3%), estimated response times are shorter than real response times with an average of 83.6 s. Both real and estimated response times are highest in rural municipalities. However, on average, underestimations are larger in urban municipalities. Response times also tend to be underestimated in municipalities with formalized cooperation agreements. Joint organization of FRS resources is thus not necessarily an effective way to reduce response times, with implications for the way FRS is delivered. This study highlights the heterogeneous spatial patterns of difference between estimated and real response times, and shows the importance of being event and area specific when planning the FRS system.
Editors’ statement on the responsible use of generative AI technologies in scholarly journal publishing
Authors: Kaebnick Gregory E. , Magnus David Christopher , Kao Audiey , Hosseini Mohammad , Resnik David , Dubljević Veljko , Rentmeester Christy , Gordijn Bert , Cherry Mark J.
Published: October 2023

Generative artificial intelligence (AI) has the potential to transform many aspects of scholarly publishing. Authors, peer reviewers, and editors might use AI in a variety of ways, and those uses might augment their existing work or might instead be intended to replace it. We are editors of bioethics and humanities journals who have been contemplating the implications of this ongoing transformation. We believe that generative AI may pose a threat to the goals that animate our work but could also be valuable for achieving those goals. In the interests of fostering a wider conversation about how generative AI may be used, we have developed a preliminary set of recommendations for its use in scholarly publishing. We hope that the recommendations and rationales set out here will help the scholarly community navigate toward a deeper understanding of the strengths, limits, and challenges of AI for responsible scholarly work.
The Effects of Temperature Variation with Surface Triangle Grating on Silicon Thin-Film Solar Cell Array Efficiency
Authors: ElKhamisy Khalil , Abdelhamid Hamdy , El-Rabaie El-Sayed , Abdel-Salam Nariman
Published: October 2023

This paper examines the effect of temperature variation on the surface triangular grating of the surface plasmon polariton (SPP) on the effectiveness of the entire array of silicon thin-film solar cells. Thin-film solar cells’ optical and electrical characteristics are examined using the electromagnetic and semiconductor models. The 3D Multiphysics simulator is used to present this study. The MATLAB/SIMULINK model based on mathematical formulas is developed to simulate the entire array of solar cells with thin films. This approach is suggested for quickly simulating the thin-film array. The presented model was applied on thin-film solar cells with and without SPP depending on the complete cell parameters from the COMSOL Multiphysics model. The triangle’s SPPs accomplish a 14.76% efficiency increase of 1.07% over a solar cell without SPPs.