bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effectiveness of the semi‐automated Identifin software to accurately fast‐track dorsal fin photographic identifications of sharks
Authors: Maroen Megan , Rowlinson Mary , Matthee Conrad , Andreotti Sara
Published: May 2024

For some marine species, photo‐identification (photo‐ID) data can be used to generate population estimates critical for conservation efforts. For the white shark (Carcharadon carcharias), different photo‐ID methods have been proposed: (1) the traditional manual matching method based on non‐organized databases, (2) the notches code method based on organized databases and (3) the semi‐automatic software, Identifin. However, the effectiveness of these different methods and the applicability to other shark species have not been adequately explored.

Eleven inexperienced and two experienced investigators used the three different photo‐ID methods to record the accuracy and time taken to identify individual white sharks from photo‐ID images.

Both the traditional and notches code methods allowed for the accurate matching of individuals to the databases provided. For all investigators, the notches code method used significantly less time (14 min ± 0.14 min) than the traditional matching method (19 min ± 1.34 min). The semi‐automated method, Identifin, further shortened the identification time to 2 min (± 0.10 min) and provided a significantly higher matching accuracy (96% correct matches) compared with traditional manual matching (78% correct matches) and the notches code method (70% correct matches).

The use of Identifin was tested to identify bronze whaler sharks (Carcharhinus brachyurus), a species with finer notches patterns when compared with white sharks. Identifin showed less efficiency in matching individual photographs to the database, but when very‐high‐quality (VHQ) photographs were available, matching improved substantially.

Identifin software shows great potential in assisting researchers to accurately identify individual sharks in large databases, and this can contribute significantly to the conservation of shark species. The software and automated process need to be adapted to be functional on a variety of different shark species, but it proves to be an effective tool in managing large photo‐ID databases.
Metabolomic analysis reveals the molecular mechanism related to leg abnormality in broilers
Authors: Zheng Jumei , Zhang Qi , Tang Xinxin , Ying Fan , Liu Dawei , Li Sen , Liu Ranran , Wen Jie , Li QingHe , Zhao Guiping
Published: May 2024

Rapid body weight gain in broilers overloads the metabolic system of the organism, resulting in leg abnormalities, which seriously affects animal welfare and industry economics. In this study, broilers with normal and deformed leg bones were examined. Serum biochemical indices showed that the serum calcium to phosphorus ratio was extremely decreased in leg deformed group. In addition, abnormal serum lipid levels suggested a disruption in lipid metabolism. Based on widely targeted metabonomic analysis of serum and cartilage tissues, a total of nine differential metabolites (DMs) significantly associated with leg abnormalities and serum calcium and phosphorus levels were screened, including carnitine C16:0, carnitine C18:1, 3‐hydroxymethyl‐L‐tyrosine, cis‐4‐hydroxy‐D‐proline, cis‐L‐3‐hydroxyproline, trans‐4‐hydroxy‐L‐proline, and so on. Pathway analysis revealed that fatty acid degradation and arachidonic acid metabolism were enriched. Analysis of DMs in these two pathways showed that prostaglandin D2, prostaglandin J2, prostaglandin A2, 15‐keto prostaglandin F2α, and Δ12‐prostaglandin J2 significantly differed between the normal and abnormal groups. It was hypothesized that these important metabolic pathways and metabolites were involved in the metabolic regulation of leg abnormalities.
A Recyclable Luminescent MOF Sensor for On‐Site Detection of Insecticide Dinotefuran and Anti‐Parkinson's Drug Entacapone in Various Environmental and Biological Specimens
Authors: Mir Nazir Ud Din , Hossain Sk Sakir , Biswas Shyam
Published: May 2024

The monitoring and precise determination of pesticides and pharmaceutical drugs and their residues have become increasingly important in the field of food safety and water contamination issues. Herein, a fluorescent aluminium MOF‐based sensor (1) was developed for the selective recognition of neonicotinoid insecticide dinotefuran and anti‐Parkinson's drug entacapone. Guest‐free MOF 1′ exhibited ultra‐fast response (<5 s) and ultra‐low detection limits of 2.3 and 7.6 nM for dinotefuran and entacapone, which are lower than the previously reported MOF‐based sensors. In the presence of other competitive analytes, great selectivity was achieved towards both analytes. The probe was recyclable up to five cycles. The sensing ability was explored towards entacapone in human serum, urine and dinotefuran in real soil, rice, honey samples, different fruits, vegetables, real water specimens and a wide range of pH media. A low‐cost, handy MOF‐based polymer thin‐film composite (1′@PVDF‐PVP) was developed for the on‐site detection of dinotefuran and entacapone. Mechanistic studies involving analytical techniques and theoretical calculations suggested that FRET and PET are the probable reasons for entacapone sensing whereas IFE is responsible for dinotefuran detection. The entire work presents a low cost, multi‐use photoluminescent sensor of entacapone and dinotefuran to address the environmental pollution.
Fluorescent Sensors for Tetracycline Detection in Aqueous Medium: A Mini‐Review
Authors: Basak Megha , Das Gopal
Published: May 2024

Tetracycline (TC) is a commonly used antibiotic in human therapy and animal husbandry. Public concerns about TC residues inflated due to their negative impact on the environment, food, and human health concerns. To ensure human health and safety, there is a need for fluorogenic chemosensors that can easily detect TC antibiotics with high selectivity and sensitivity in the aqueous medium. This mini‐review discusses the progress and achievements in several fluorometric antibiotic tetracycline detection methods. Fluorogenic chemosensors for tetracycline antibiotics with easy‐to‐use, high selectivity, and sensitivity have been essentially required to regulate food safety and secure human health and safety. Moreover, we gave more attention to the practical applicability of chemosensors for tetracycline antibiotics in food and water quality assessment. This article starts with a section that constitutes an overview of the problems of antibiotics and the typical features of traditional techniques of antibiotic detection. It then goes on to describe up‐to‐date optical methods for the selective detection and efficient removal of TC. These methods involve a variety of platforms, like tetraphenylethylene polymers, metal complexes, self‐assembled CuNCs, and hydrogel. The article also discusses the practical applicability of chemosensors for tetracycline antibiotics in food and water quality.
Ambiguity Preference in Waiting Time: Investigating the Desirability Effect and the Interplay of Temporal Description, Outcome Category, and Evaluation Mode
Authors: Xu Ping , Cheng Jiuqing , Shang Xianyue , Jin Zhixian
Published: May 2024

People often experience uncertain waiting times, like when awaiting job interview decisions. Despite its prevalence, the preference for waiting time‐ambiguity has received limited research attention. Drawing on the information gap theory, which suggests ambiguity avoidance is influenced by the affective response to the missing information caused by uncertainty, this work examined the effect of outcome desirability on ambiguity preference in the context of waiting time. Across five studies in China and the United States, this work observed that people strongly dislike unknown waiting time for undesirable outcomes compared with desirable outcomes. This effect held true in both rating tasks and choice tasks. Furthermore, this study explores factors influencing this desirability effect. Using calendar dates instead of waiting time units and evaluating the options separately rather than jointly, reduced the impact of outcome desirability on ambiguity preference. Additionally, this desirability affect was more pronounced for utilitarian than hedonic outcomes. Altogether, these findings highlight the role of outcome desirability, temporal description, and evaluation mode in shaping individuals' preference for ambiguity in the domain of waiting time.
Momentum‐preserving inversion alleviation for elastic material simulation
Authors: Jeong Heejo , Kim Seung‐wook , Lee JaeHyun , Um Kiwon , Kee Min Hyung , Han JungHyun
Published: May 2024

This paper proposes a novel method that enhances the optimization‐based elastic body solver. The proposed method tackles the element inversion problem, which is prevalent in the prediction‐projection approach for numerical simulation of elastic bodies. At the prediction stage, our method alleviates inversions such that the subsequent projection solver can benefit in stability and efficiency. To prevent excessive suppression of predicted inertial motion when alleviating, we introduce a velocity decomposition method and adapt only the non‐rigid motion while preserving the rigid motion, that is, linear and angular momenta. Thanks to the respected inertial motion in the prediction stage, our method produces lively motions while keeping the entire simulation more stable. The experiments demonstrate that our alleviation method successfully stabilizes the simulation and improves the efficiency particularly when large deformations hamper the solver.
Neonatal pleural effusion associated with pulmonary sequestration: A case report
Authors: Twanabasu Sajal , Chalise Shiva Prasad Sharma
Published: May 2024

Key Clinical Message

Pleural effusion is rare during neonatal period with an estimated prevalence of 0.06%. It may sometimes uncommonly be secondary to pulmonary sequestration. Besides common conditions like hydrops fetalis, congenital heart disease, congenital chylothorax, chromosomal abnormalities; pulmonary sequestration should also be considered while evaluating the cause for neonatal pleural effusion.
Challenges in the Synthesis and Processing of Hydrosilanes as Precursors for Silicon Deposition
Authors: Gerwig Maik , Böhme Uwe , Friebel Mike
Published: May 2024

Hydrosilanes are highly attractive compounds, which can be processed as liquids with printing technology to amorphous silicon films on nearly any solid substrate. The silicon layers can be processed for electronic devices like transistors or thin‐film solar cells. The endothermic character of hydrosilanes with their positive enthalpies of formation results in favorable properties for processing. The larger the molecules, the lower their decomposition temperature and the higher their photoactivity. Cyclic hydrosilanes such as cyclopentasilane and cyclohexasilane can be easily deposited. The branched neopentasilane is more difficult to deposit but yields better‐quality films after processing. The key challenge is the complex synthesis of the precursors and the hydrosilanes. The available preparative methods are presented in this review and their advantages and disadvantages are evaluated. The following synthesis methods are presented and discussed in this article: Wurtz coupling and other reductive coupling processes, dehydrogenative coupling of silanes, plasma synthesis of chlorinated polysilanes, amine‐ or chloride‐induced disproportionations, and transformation of monosilane to higher silanes. Plasma synthesis is already carried out today as a continuous industrial process. The most effective synthesis methods in the laboratory are currently amine‐ and chloride‐induced disproportionations. There is a great need to further optimize the syntheses of hydrosilanes and to develop new simple synthesis variants.
Phloroglucinol Derivatives Exert Anti‐Inflammatory Effects and Attenuate Cognitive Impairment in LPS‐Induced Mouse Model
Authors: Kim Jushin , Won Choi Ji , Jeong Kim Hyeon , Kim Byungeun , Kim Yoowon , Hwejin Lee Elijah , Kim Rium , Kim Jaehwan , Park Jiwoo , Jeong Yeeun , Park Jong‐Hyun , Duk Park Ki
Published: May 2024

Neuroinflammation is an inflammatory immune response that arises in the central nervous system. It is one of the primary causes of neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease. Phloroglucinol (PG) is a natural product contained in extracts of plant, algae and microbe and has been reported to have antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory properties. In this study, we synthesized PG derivatives to enhance antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory activity. Among PG derivatives, 6 a suppressed pro‐oxidative and inflammatory molecule nitric oxide (NO) production more effectively than PG. Moreover, 6 a dose‐dependently reduced the expression of proinflammatory cytokines such as IL‐6, IL‐1β, TNF‐α, and NO producing enzyme iNOS in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐stimulated BV‐2 microglial cells. Additionally, we confirmed that 6 a alleviated cognitive impairment and glial activation in mouse model of LPS‐induced neuroinflammation. These findings suggest that novel PG derivative, 6 a, is a potential treatment for neurodegenerative diseases.
The Evolution of Antibody‐Drug Conjugates: Toward Accurate DAR and Multi‐specificity
Authors: Dong Wenge , Wang Wanqi , Cao Chan
Published: May 2024

Antibody‐drug conjugates (ADCs) consist of antibodies, linkers and payloads. They offer targeted delivery of potent cytotoxic drugs to tumor cells, minimizing off‐target effects. However, the therapeutic efficacy of ADCs is compromised by heterogeneity in the drug‐to‐antibody ratio (DAR), which impacts both cytotoxicity and pharmacokinetics (PK). Additionally, the emergence of drug resistance poses significant challenges to the clinical advancement of ADCs. To overcome these limitations, a variety of strategies have been developed, including the design of multi‐specific drugs with accurate DAR. This review critically summarizes the current challenges faced by ADCs, categorizing key issues and evaluating various innovative solutions. We provide an in‐depth analysis of the latest methodologies for achieving homogeneous DAR and explore design strategies for multi‐specific drugs aimed at combating drug resistance. Our discussion offers a current perspective on the advancements made in refining ADC technologies, with an emphasis on enhancing therapeutic outcomes.
Interventions to mitigate cancer‐related medical financial hardship: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Rashidi Ali , Jung Jinho , Kao Raymond , Nguyen Emily Lan , Le Theresa , Ton Brandon , Chen Wen‐Pin , Ziogas Argyrios , Sadigh Gelareh
Published: May 2024

Background

This study systematically reviewed interventions mitigating financial hardship in patients with cancer and assessed effectiveness using a meta‐analytic method.

Methods

PubMed, Cochrane, Scopus, CINAHL, and Web of Science were searched for articles published in English during January 2000–April 2023. Two independent reviewers selected prospective clinical trials with an intervention targeting and an outcome measuring financial hardship. Quality appraisal and data extraction were performed independently by two reviewers using a quality assessment tool. A random‐effects model meta‐analysis was performed. Reporting followed the preferred reporting items for systematic review and meta‐analyses guidelines.

Results

Eleven studies (2211 participants; 55% male; mean age, 59.29 years) testing interventions including financial navigation, financial education, and cost discussion were included. Financial worry improved in only 27.3% of 11 studies. Material hardship and cost‐related care nonadherence remained unchanged in the two studies measuring these outcomes. Four studies (373 participants; 37% male, mean age, 55.88 years) assessed the impact of financial navigation on financial worry using the comprehensive score of financial toxicity (COST) measure (score range, 0–44; higher score = lower financial worry) and were used for meta‐analysis. There was no significant change in the mean of pooled COST score between post‐ and pre‐intervention (1.21; 95% confidence interval, –6.54 to 8.96; p = .65). Adjusting for pre‐intervention COST, mean change of COST significantly decreased by 0.88 with every 1‐unit increase in pre‐intervention COST (p = .02). The intervention significantly changed COST score when pre‐intervention COST was ≤14.5.

Conclusion

A variety of interventions have been tested to mitigate financial hardship. Financial navigation can mitigate financial worry among high‐risk patients.
Bridging the color barrier: A review of techniques for improving color perception in the blind and visually impaired
Authors: Dini Silvia , Ludovico Luca Andrea , Valero Gisbert María Joaquina
Published: May 2024

The transmission of color experience has become a central concern in the development of devices for blind and visually impaired individuals. Several techniques have been implemented, taking into consideration other sensory modalities, in an attempt to find the most suitable solution to intersemiotically translate this visual information. The primary objective of this paper is to investigate various approaches to convey chromatic information for individuals with low vision or blindness and emphasize the importance of multi‐modal integration and cross‐modal interaction among different senses. This research brings together a wide variety of strategies utilized to translate color codes, such as patterns, temperatures, scents, music, and vibrations, with the aim of uncovering the advantages and disadvantages of each technique. A review of the existing literature suggests that interaction between multiple sensory channels is more effective in compensating for lack of vision. As a particularly relevant case study, attention will be paid to the enjoyment of art by people with visual impairments.
A new service composition method in the cloud‐based Internet of things environment using a grey wolf optimization algorithm and MapReduce framework
Authors: Vakili Asrin , Al‐Khafaji Hamza Mohammed Ridha , Darbandi Mehdi , Heidari Arash , Jafari Navimipour Nima , Unal Mehmet
Published: May 2024

Cloud computing is quickly becoming a common commercial model for software delivery and services, enabling companies to save maintenance, infrastructure, and labor expenses. Also, Internet of Things (IoT) apps are designed to ease developers' and users' access to networks of smart services, devices, and data. Although cloud services give nearly infinite resources, their reach is constrained. Designing coherent and organized apps is made possible by integrating the cloud and IoT. Expanding facilities by combining services is a critical component of this technology. Various services may be presented in this environment based on the user's demands. Considering their Quality of Service (QoS) attributes, discovering the appropriate available atomic services to construct the needed composite service with their collaboration in an orchestration model is an NP‐hard issue. This article suggests a service composition method using Grey Wolf Optimization (GWO) and MapReduce framework to compose services with optimized QoS. The simulation outcomes illustrate cost, availability, response time, and energy‐saving improvements through the suggested approach. Comparing the suggested technique to three baseline algorithms, the average gain is a 40% improvement in energy savings, a 14% decrease in response time, an 11% increase in availability, and a 24% drop in cost.
Exploring the Scaling Factors for Infrared Modes of PANHs – A Case Study on Cationic 3‐Azafluoranthene⋅+ and Protonated 3‐Azafluoranthene**
Authors: Schleier Domenik , Kamer Jerry , Martens Jonathan , Berden Giel , Oomens Jos , Bouwman Jordy
Published: May 2024

Infrared (IR) emission bands by interstellar polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and polycyclic aromatic nitrogen heterocycles (PANHs) are observed towards a large variety of interstellar objects and offer detailed insights into the chemistry and physics of the interstellar medium. The analysis of the emission bands, and thus the interpretation of the molecular characteristics of the carriers, heavily relies on the use of density functional theory (DFT) calculated IR spectra. However, there are significant challenges in accurately predicting the experimental IR band positions, particularly for PANH emission vibrational modes around 6 μm. In this work, we present gas‐phase mid‐infrared (mid‐IR) spectra of cationic 3‐azafluoranthene (3AF⋅+) and protonated 3‐azafluoranthene (3AFH+) to investigate their experimental IR band positions in relation to DFT calculated bands. The experimental spectra are compared to DFT simulated spectra, where different approaches were followed to correct for anharmonicities. The best agreement is achieved by scaling frequencies of modes with large nitrogen displacements with a different factor. Even though our findings might be limited to a small number of PANH structures, they indicate, that nitrogen atom incorporation needs to be accounted for by carefully adjusting the corresponding scaling factors while computing IR spectra of PANHs on DFT level.
Field collections and environmental DNA surveys reveal topographic complexity of coral reefs as a predictor of cryptobenthic biodiversity across small spatial scales
Authors: Brodnicke O. B. , Jensen M. R. , Thomsen P. F. , Brorly T. , Andersen B. L. , Knudsen S. W. , Præbel K. , Brandl S. J. , Sweet M. J. , Møller P. R. , Worsaae K.
Published: May 2024

Coral reefs represent some of the most biodiverse ecosystems in the world but are currently undergoing large‐scale degradation due to anthropogenic stressors. Such degradation usually begins with coral bleaching, and if the stress condition is inflicted for too long may eventually result in loss of structural complexity (or “flattening”) of the reef, dramatically changing habitat availability for reef‐associated fauna. Despite having been linked to important ecosystem functions, cryptobenthic organisms are often overlooked in ecological monitoring programs, and their microhabitat dependencies are poorly understood. Here, we combined collection‐based biodiversity monitoring techniques with five different environmental DNA (eDNA) sampling techniques (Reef water, sediment, crevice water, slurp gun, and bulk sediment) to survey cryptobenthic fishes and annelids on a Maldivian fringing coral reef. Collectively, 176 fish and 140 annelid taxa were detected with eDNA across 14 surveyed sites, more than doubling the reported annelid taxa in the region with 88 new occurrences. Water filtered near the reef structure revealed the highest species richness out of the five eDNA sampling techniques tested. Furthermore, we found correlations between fish species richness and topographic complexity for both collection‐ and eDNA‐based techniques. This suggests that detection by eDNA may be linked to site‐specific predictors and reveal community differences across small spatial scales (tens of meters). We also report that reef flattening (going from structural complex to less complex sites) can cause a 50% reduction in fish diversity and that cryptobenthic fish species richness was highly associated with branching corals. In contrast, annelid communities showed no clear correlations with environmental predictors, but co‐amplification of non‐target, non‐annelid taxa may have distorted such correlations if present. This suggest that the predictive powers of eDNA for environmental gradients may be dependent on the targeted taxa.
Intracellular complement and immunometabolism: The advantages of compartmentalization
Authors: King Ben C. , Blom Anna M.
Published: May 2024

The complement system is a proteolytic cascade triggered by pathogen and danger‐associated molecular patterns, with resultant outcomes of inflammation, cellular activation, and opsonization of material for removal by phagocytosis. While first discovered as an activity in serum, it is now recognized that complement components play important roles at local and individual cell‐intrinsic levels. In particular, apart from the extracellular serum activities of complement, it is now believed that complement also acts intracellularly, as part of a cellular signal transduction cascade that can stimulate cellular survival and activation, and individual immune cell phenotypes, via effects on cellular metabolism. This review will describe what is currently known about how complement functions in intracellular signal transduction, and outline the functional advantages of a compartmentalized and intracellular complement system.
Computational Insights into Cinchona‐Based Phase Transfer Catalysisfor Asymmetric Conjugate Cyanation
Authors: Iribarren Iñigo , Ferrer Maxime , Alkorta Ibon , Trujillo Cristina
Published: May 2024

The synthesis of asymmetric organic molecules has experienced a huge development over the last
few decades. Phase‐transfer catalysis has been proven to be one of the most powerful methods
for these asymmetric transformations. However, the study of the mechanism of these catalysts and
the different interactions that they can establish with the reactants has failed to keep pace. In the
present study, the conjugate cyanation of two different α,β‐unsaturated ketones are studied in the
presence of a well‐known alkaloid quinine‐derived PTC, along with different modifications. The study
includes the comparison of different binding modes between the catalysts and the different reactants,
the mechanistic study of the reaction and the analysis of the non‐covalent interactions established
within the complexes and their role in the global enantioselectivity of the process.
Novel LAMC3 pathogenic variant enriched in Finnish population causes malformations of cortical development and severe epilepsy
Authors: Saarela Anni , Timonen Oskari , Kirjavainen Jarkko , Liu Yawu , Silvennoinen Katri , Mervaala Esa , Kälviäinen Reetta
Published: May 2024

Objective

Recessive LAMC3 mutations are recognized to cause epilepsy with cortical malformations characterized by polymicrogyria and pachygyria. The objective of this study was to describe the clinical picture and epilepsy phenotype of four patients with a previously undescribed LAMC3 variant.

Methods

All epilepsy patients treated in Kuopio Epilepsy Center (located in Kuopio, Finland) are offered the possibility to participate in a scientific study investigating biomarkers in epilepsy (Epibiomarker study). We have collected a comprehensive database of the study population, and are currently re‐evaluating our database regarding the patients with developmental and/or epileptic encephalopathy (DEE). If the etiology of epilepsy remains unknown in the clinical setting, we are performing whole exome sequencing to recognize the genetic causes.

Results

Among our study population of 323 DEE patients we recognized three patients with similar homozygous LAMC3 c.1866del (p.(Phe623Serfs*10)) frameshift variant and one patient with a compound heterozygous mutation where the same frameshift variant was combined with an intronic LAMC3 c.4231‐12C>G variant on another allele. All these patients have severe epilepsy and either bilateral agyria‐pachygyria or bilateral polymicrogyria in their clinical MRI scanning. Cortical malformations involve the occipital lobes in all our patients. Epilepsy phenotype is variable as two of our patients have DEE with epileptic spasms progressing to Lennox–Gastaut syndrome and intellectual disability. The other two patients have focal epilepsy without marked cognitive deficit. The four patients are unrelated. LAMC3 c.1866del p.(Phe623Serfs*10) frameshift variant is enriched in the Finnish population.

Significance

Only a few patients with epilepsy caused by LAMC3 homozygous or compound heterozygous mutations have been described in the literature. To our knowledge, the variants discovered in our patients have not previously been published. Clinical phenotype appears to be more varied than previously assumed and patients with a milder phenotype and normal cognition have probably remained unrecognized.
Performance study of low temperature air heated rock bed thermal energy storage system
Authors: Salehudress Zelalem M. , Habtu Nigus G. , Admasu Bimrew T. , Delele Mulugeta A. , Asemu Aynadis M.
Published: May 2024

One of the primary types of sensible heat storage systems in drying applications is the packed rock bed. However, to create large‐scale heat storage systems for industrial use, one must comprehend the hydrodynamic and effectiveness of the heat transport mechanism inside the bed. In this study, the thermal storage unit uses river rock as heat storage materials with equivalent particle diameters of 36 mm in bed 1 and 56 mm in bed 2. The rocks were stacked in a truncated cone‐shaped concrete wall section with an average diameter and depth of 1.1 m and 1.3 m, respectively and a volume of 2.32 m3. During the charging phase, two airflow configurations were used, one from the top with an air mass flow rate of 0.753 and 0.332 kg/m2‐s and the other from the bottom with an air mass flow rate of 0.955 kg/m2‐s. During the discharging phase, the entire flow configuration is from the bottom section. It was observed that the mass flow rate and particle equivalent diameter had an important effect on the thermal performance and behaviour of the rock bed during charging and discharging operations. Maximum efficiency was achieved with an airflow configuration provided from the bottom when charging at 0.955 kg/m2.s. Consequently, a sizable quantity of heat or energy (60 MJ) was retained. It was also observed that the relationship between air mass flow rate and particle size was significant, with smaller particles retaining more energy. When comparing bed 1 with bed 2 at this air mass flow rate, bed 1 stored 2.1 times more energy than bed 2. A wind tunnel experiment was used to measure the pressure drop in the packed rock bed. The pressure drop in the bed increases with an increase in particle Reynolds number and decreases with an increase in particle size. Rock bed heat transfer coefficient and Nusselt number were calculated using the correlation that has already been established in the literature smaller particles showed higher heat transfer coefficients and lower Nusselt numbers. This is due to the increase in particle‐to‐particle interaction and larger particle surface areas. For a given Reynolds number, the Nusselt number increases with the size of the rock particle.
Four‐Dimensional Ecology Education (4DEE) for everyone: teaching ecology to non‐majors
Authors: Rodgers Vikki L , Scanga Sara E , St Juliana Justin R , Tietjen Erica S , Honea Jon M , Byrne Loren B , Leggett Zakiya H , Middendorf George
Published: May 2024

Originally developed for application to ecology courses for undergraduate majors, the Four‐Dimensional Ecology Education (4DEE) Framework offers possibilities for adaptation to courses with ecology content for many other audiences. Recognizing the extraordinary range of classroom contexts and constraints, we developed some general, flexible recommendations and approaches to guide instructors in adapting the 4DEE Framework for an array of non‐major audiences and classroom context needs. Our hope is that 4DEE‐aligned courses for non‐majors will provide these students with greater appreciation of ecology and inspire them to use their knowledge to address many critical environmental issues in their personal and professional lives. Many of our recommendations likely apply to natural science, engineering, and math majors as well. We encourage more ecologists to embrace teaching non‐majors courses as a response to the urgent need to improve ecological literacy for everyone.
Can digital M&A reduce the stock price crash risk?
Authors: Guan Jingyi , Wen Yunhui
Published: May 2024

With the rapid development of the digital economy, digital mergers and acquisitions (M&A) have become essential means for enterprises to acquire digital technologies and accelerate their digital transformation. This paper examines the impact of digital M&A on stock price crash risk using a sample of M&A transactions of China A‐share listed companies from 2010 to 2021. The results show that digital M&A can reduce stock price crash risk after M&A. Further discussions reveal that compared to non‐digital M&A, digital M&A has a better market effect, and the target firms of digital M&A generally are in different industries from the acquirers, have relatively low registered capital, have a shorter registration time, and have better financial performance. Mechanism tests indicate that during the transaction, digital M&A increases the probability of signing earnout contracts and reduces the cash payment ratio. After the transaction, digital M&A increases research and development (R&D) investment and improves R&D investment efficiency, ultimately reducing stock price crash risk. Cross‐sectional tests suggest that in situations with intense market competition, lower digitalization level of the acquirers, and higher business similarity between the acquirer and the target firm, digital M&A is more effective in reducing stock price crash risk. The findings enrich the research on the operational mechanisms and economic consequences of digital M&A, providing theoretical references for regulatory authorities to optimise M&A regulatory policies and for enterprises to assess the benefits and risks of digital M&A.
Denoising smooth‐detail representation of MRI‐SPECT fusion
Authors: Du Jiao , Cheng Zhun , Wang Yuangen , Li Weisheng
Published: May 2024

Fusing of brain imaging data is a hot task that has been previously approached by preserving saliency information from inputs to the output enhanced fused image. In this article, we present a method for calculating fused image from an anatomical image and a functional image, in which detail saliency information is preserved while suppressing noise. Our method is based on smooth‐detail representation used as a decomposition model scheme and based on denoising fusion rules to predict a fused version of the desired output. Unlike our previous approach, the method proposed in this article presents a smooth‐detail model for greyscale image with the extension a single‐channel to a three‐channel. We also adopt denoising method for map to construct the estimated fused image. The effectiveness of our method is proved in terms of analyzing noisy image, making comparison between proposed method and deep learning methods, and computing complexity of running time, showing better performance on denoising and preserving luminance saliency information.
Multidimensional perturbed consistency learning for semi‐supervised medical image segmentation
Authors: Yuan Enze , Zhao Bin , Qin Xiao , Ding Shuxue
Published: May 2024

In this article, we propose a novel multidimensional perturbed consistency network (MPCNet) for more accurate semi‐supervised medical image segmentation. Specifically, we develop a multidimensional perturbation by considering the noise itself, the target object and the overall spatial architecture. This type of perturbation can disrupt the propagation process of abstract features over a wide range, enabling the model to learn the distribution of comprehensive data. In addition, we design a shared encoder to extract multi‐scale features. After subjecting these features to multidimensional perturbation, a consistency constraint is applied between different results output by three independent decoders. This constraint aims to minimize the statistical differences between these results and effectively leverage unlabeled data. Experimental results on the public LA, Pancreas‐CT and ACDC datasets demonstrate that our method outperforms recent SOTA semi‐supervised learning methods in terms of various metrics. Our code is released publicly at https://github.com/yuanenze123/MPC-Net.
Generalizing Diffusion Tensor Imaging of the Physis and Metaphysis
Authors: Luo Katherine L. , Santos Laura , Tokaria Rumana , Jambawalikar Sachin , Duong Phuong T. , Raya José G. , Mostoufi‐Moab Sogol , Jaramillo Diego
Published: May 2024

Background

Current methods to predict height potential are inaccurate. Predicting height by using MRI of the physeal cartilage has shown promise but the applicability of this technique in different imaging setups has not been well‐evaluated.

Purpose

To assess variability in diffusion tensor imaging of the physis and metaphysis (DTI‐P/M) of the distal femur between different scanners, imaging parameters, tractography software, and resolution.

Study Type

Prospective.

Population/Subjects

Eleven healthy subjects (five males and six females ages 10–16.94).

Field Strength/Sequence

3 T; DTI single shot echo planar sequences.

Assessment

Physeal DTI tract measurements of the distal femur were compared between different scanners, imaging parameters, tractography settings, interpolation correction, and tractography software.

Statistical Tests

Bland–Altman, Spearman correlation, linear regression, and Shapiro–Wilk tests. Threshold for statistical significance was set at P = 0.05.

Results

DTI tract values consistently showed low variability with different imaging and analysis settings. Vendor to vendor comparison exhibited strong correlation (ρ = 0.93) and small but significant bias (bias −5.76, limits of agreement [LOA] −24.31 to 12.78). Strong correlation and no significant difference were seen between technical replicates of the General Electric MRI scanner (ρ = 1, bias 0.17 [LOA −1.5 to 1.2], P = 0.42) and the Siemens MRI scanner (ρ = 0.89, bias = 0.56, P = 0.71). Different voxel sizes (1 × 1 × 2 mm3 vs. 2 × 2 × 3 mm3) did not significantly affect DTI values (bias = 1.4 [LOA −5.7 to 8.4], P = 0.35) but maintained a strong correlation (ρ = 0.82). Gap size (0 mm vs. 0.6 mm) significantly affects tract volume (bias = 1.8 [LOA −5.4 to 1.8]) but maintains a strong correlation (ρ = 0.93). Comparison of tractography algorithms generated significant differences in tract number, length, and volume while maintaining correlation (ρ = 0.86, 0.99, 0.93, respectively). Comparison of interobserver variability between different tractography software also revealed significant differences while maintaining high correlation (ρ = 0.85–0.98).

Data Conclusion

DTI of the pediatric physis cartilage shows high reproducibility between different imaging and analytic parameters.

Evidence Level

2

Technical Efficacy

Stage 1
Effect of product design on repurchase intention, electronic word‐of‐mouth, and museum visit intention: Museum random boxes in China
Authors: Lin Feng , Ryu Kisang , Ahn Young‐joo
Published: May 2024

This study examines how product design affects museum visits and museum product loyalty. Based on the gaps in previous research, the study posits interrelationships among product design (esthetics and symbolism), emotional states (pleasure and arousal), attitude toward the product, loyalty repurchase intention and electronic word‐of‐mouth (eWOM), and museum visit intention. This research applied partial least squares‐structural equation modeling to analyze data from 316 customers who purchased the museum's random boxes. The empirical results suggest that (1) esthetics and symbolism are antecedents of attitude, pleasure, and arousal; (2) attitude toward the product mediates the effect of product design on product loyalty and museum visit intention; (3) arousal helps mediate the relationship between symbolism and repurchase intention; and (4) pleasure is an antecedent of attitude toward the product. This study provides valuable practical simplications and offers new areas for future studies.
The Third Compound Promoted Copolymerization of Ethylene with 4‐Penten‐1‐ol by Using Metallocene Catalyst
Authors: Wang Wei , Guo Tianhao , Qu Shuzhang , Zhang Taoyi , Li Xinwei
Published: May 2024

Olefin coordination copolymerization with polar monomers is an important topic both in academia and industry. During copolymerization, polar monomers will seriously reduce the polymerization activity and the molecular weight of the copolymer, making it difficult to balance the two and the polar monomer incorporation at the same time. In this study, a metallocene catalyst, Ph2C(Cp)(Flu)ZrCl2, is used for the copolymerization of ethylene with 4‐penten‐1‐ol. The incorporation of 4‐penten‐1‐ol can be effectively increased by the introduction of the steric phenol as the third component (TC). Depending on the cocatalyst, the activity or molecular weight can be improved. It is believed that the promotion effect may work by the interaction of the steric phenol with the catalyst or cocatalyst. It is also suggested that in this system, polymerization is terminated by deactivation‐chain transfer mechanism rather than β‐X elimination due to back‐biting.
m6A modification of lncRNA PHKA1‐AS1 enhances Actinin Alpha 4 stability and promotes non‐small cell lung cancer metastasis
Authors: Guo Qiao‐Ru , Zhang Guo‐Bin , Zhou Wen‐Min , Lu Yu , Chen Xin‐Zhu , Deng Zhuo‐Fen , Li Jin‐Shuo , Bi Hong , Wu Ming‐Sheng , Xie Ming‐Ran , Yan Yan‐Yan , Zhang Jian‐Ye
Published: May 2024

Cancer is a disease with molecular heterogeneity that is closely related to gene mutations and epigenetic changes. The principal histological subtype of lung cancer is non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Long noncoding RNA (lncRNA) is a kind of RNA that is without protein coding function, playing a critical role in the progression of cancer. In this research, the regulatory mechanisms of lncRNA phosphorylase kinase regulatory subunit alpha 1 antisense RNA 1 (PHKA1‐AS1) in the progression of NSCLC were explored. The increased level of N6‐methyladenosine (m6A) modification in NSCLC caused the high expression of PHKA1‐AS1. Subsequently, high‐expressed PHKA1‐AS1 significantly facilitated the proliferation and metastasis of NSCLC cells, and these effects could be reversed upon the inhibition of PHKA1‐AS1 expression, both in vivo and in vitro. Additionally, the target protein of PHKA1‐AS1 was actinin alpha 4 (ACTN4), which is known as an oncogene. Herein, PHKA1‐AS1 could enhance the protein stability of ACTN4 by inhibiting its ubiquitination degradation process, thus exerting the function of ACTN4 in promoting the progress of NSCLC. In conclusion, this research provided a theoretical basis for further exploring the potential mechanism of NSCLC metastasis and searching novel biomarkers related to the pathogenesis and progression of NSCLC.
Machine learning bias correction and downscaling of urban heatwave temperature predictions from kilometre to hectometre scale
Authors: Blunn Lewis P. , Ames Flynn , Croad Hannah L. , Gainford Adam , Higgs Ieuan , Lipson Mathew , Lo Chun Hay Brian
Published: May 2024

The urban heat island (UHI) effect exacerbates near‐surface air temperature (T) extremes in cities, with negative impacts for human health, building energy consumption and infrastructure. Using conventional weather models, it is both difficult and computationally expensive to simulate the complex processes controlling neighbourhood‐scale variation of T. We use machine learning (ML) to bias correct and downscale T predictions made by the Met Office operational regional forecast model (UKV) to 100 m horizontal grid length over London, UK. A set of ML models (random forest, XGBoost, multiplayer perceptron) are trained using citizen weather station observations and UKV variables from eight heatwaves, along with high‐resolution land cover data. The ML models improve the T mean absolute error (MAE) by up to 0.12°C (11%) relative to the UKV. They also improve the UHI diurnal and spatial representation, reducing the UHI profile MAE from 0.64°C (UKV) to 0.15°C. A multiple linear regression performs almost as well as the ML models in terms of T MAE, but cannot match the UHI bias correction performance of the ML models, only reducing the UHI profile MAE to 0.49°C. UKV latent heat flux is found to be the most important predictor of T bias. It is demonstrated that including more heatwaves and observation sites in training would reduce overfitting and improve ML model performance.
Raspberry Ketone Prevents LPS‐Induced Depression‐Like Behaviors in Mice by Inhibiting TLR‐4/NF‐κB Signaling Pathway via the Gut‐Brain Axis
Authors: Liu Yike , Dai Chenlin , Wang Chendi , Wang Jiayao , Yan Weikang , Luo Maowen , Dong Juane , Li Xiulian , Liu Xuebo , Lan Ying
Published: May 2024

Scope

Depression, a prevalent mental disorder, has significantly impacted the lives of 350 million people, yet it holds promise for amelioration through food‐derived phenolics. Raspberries, renowned globally for their delectable flavor, harbor a phenolic compound known as raspberry ketone (RK). However, the impact of RK on depressive symptoms remains ambiguous. This study aims to investigate the impact of RK on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐induced depressed mice and elucidates its potential mechanisms, focusing on the gut‐brain axis.

Methods and results

Through behavioral tests, RK exerts a notable preventive effect on LPS‐induced depression‐like behaviors in mice. RK proves capable of attenuating gut inflammation, repairing gut barrier impairment, modulating the composition of the gut microbiome (Muribaculaceae, Streptococcus, Lachnospiraceae, and Akkermansia), and promoting the production of short‐chain fatty acids. Furthermore, RK alleviates neuroinflammation by suppressing the TLR‐4/NF‐κB pathway and bolsters synaptic function by elevating levels of neurotrophic factors and synapse‐associated proteins.

Conclusion

The current study provides compelling evidence that RK effectively inhibits the TLR‐4/NF‐κB pathway via the gut‐brain axis, leading to the improvement of LPS‐induced depression‐like behaviors in mice. This study addresses the research gap in understanding the antidepressant effects of RK and illuminates the potential of utilizing RK as a functional food for preventing depression.
Implementing an evidence‐based behavioral weight‐loss program in community mental health centers: A randomized pilot study
Authors: Gudzune Kimberly A. , Jerome Gerald J. , Goldsholl Stacy , Dalcin Arlene T. , Gennusa Joseph V. , Fink Tyler , Yuan Christina T. , Brown Kristal L. , Minahan Eva , Wang Nae‐Yuh , Daumit Gail L.
Published: May 2024

Background

Obesity is a leading cause of preventable death among individuals with serious mental illness (SMI). A prior randomized controlled trial demonstrated the efficacy of a lifestyle style intervention tailored to this population; however, such interventions need to be adapted and tested for real‐world settings.

Aims

This study evaluated implementation interventions to support community mental health program staff to deliver an evidence‐based lifestyle intervention to clients with obesity and SMI.

Materials & Methods

In this cluster‐randomized pilot trial, the standard arm combined multimodal training with organizational strategy meetings and the enhanced arm included all standard strategies plus performance coaching. Staff‐coaches delivered a 6‐month group‐based lifestyle intervention to clients with SMI. Primary outcomes were changes in staff knowledge, self‐efficacy, and fidelity scores for lifestyle intervention delivery. Linear mixed‐effects modeling was used to analyze outcomes, addressing within‐site clustering and within‐participant longitudinal correlation of outcomes.

Results

Three sites were in the standard arm (7 staff‐coaches); 5 sites in the enhanced arm (11 staff‐coaches). All sites delivered all 26 modules of the lifestyle intervention. Staff‐coaches highly rated the training strategy's acceptability, feasibility and appropriateness. Overall, mean knowledge score significantly increased pre‐post by 5.5 (95% CI: 3.9, 7.1) and self‐efficacy was unchanged; neither significantly differed between arms. Fidelity ratings remained stable over time and did not differ between arms. Clients with SMI achieved a mean 6‐month weight loss of 3.8 kg (95% CI: 1.6, 6.1).

Conclusions

Mental health staff delivering a lifestyle intervention was feasible using multicomponent implementation interventions, and preliminary results show weight reduction among clients with SMI. The addition of performance coaching did not significantly change outcomes. Future studies are needed to definitively determine the effect on client health outcomes.