bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prevalence of HIV, hepatitis B virus, hepatitis C virus, drug use, and sexual behaviors among street children in Iran: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Nasiri Naser , Kostoulas Polychronis , Roshanfekr Payam , Kheirkhah Vakilabad Ali Asghar , Khezri Mehrdad , Mirzaei Hossein , Sharifi Ali , Sharifi Hamid
Published: November 2023

Background and Aims

Street children face a disproportionately higher risk of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), hepatitis B virus (HBV), and hepatitis C virus (HCV) due to high‐risk sexual and drug use practices. We aimed to estimate the prevalence of these infections and related risk behaviors among street children in Iran.

Methods

We searched PubMed, Web of Science (ISI), Embase, Scopus, and Google Scholar for the English‐language records and Iranian databases, including SID, Magiran, and IRANDOC for the Farsi‐language records up to September 18, 2022. Random effects analysis was used to obtain prevalence estimates for each condition. Homogeneity across included studies was assessed using I2.

Results

We extracted data from 18 eligible studies, representing 5646 children (83.2% boys), with a mean age of 10.2 (range: 5–18). The prevalence of HIV, HBV, and HCV were 0.79% (95% confidence intervals [CIs]: 0.0–5.56), 1.97% (95% CI: 1.01–3.19), and 1.88% (95% CI: 0.74–3.46), respectively. The prevalence of lifetime drug use and sexual abuse was 8.32% (95% CI: 4.83–12.62) and 10.18% (95% CI: 3.02–20.67) among street children, respectively.

Conclusion

The estimated prevalence of HIV, HBV, and HCV among street children in Iran was higher than the estimates in the general population. Moreover, drug use and the experience of sexual abuse were prevalent among this population. These findings suggest the need for targeted prevention programs for street children in Iran.
Denosumab and Mortality in a Real-World Setting: A Comparative Study
Authors: Alarkawi Dunia , Tran Thach , Chen Weiwen , March Lyn M , Blyth Fiona M , Blank Robert D , Bliuc Dana , Center Jacqueline R
Published: November 2023

Denosumab (Dmab) is increasingly prescribed worldwide. Unlike bisphosphonates (BPs), its effect on mortality has yet to be well explored. This study examined the association between Dmab and all-cause mortality compared with no treatment in subjects with a fracture and BPs in subjects without a fracture. The study population was from the Sax Institute's 45 and Up Study (n = 267,357), a prospective population-based cohort with questionnaire data linked to hospital admissions (Admitted Patients Data Collection [APDC] data were linked by the Centre for Health Record Linkage), medication records (Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme [PBS] provided by Services Australia), and stored securely (secure data access was provided through the Sax Institute's Secure Unified Research Environment [SURE]). The new-user cohort design with propensity-score (PS) matching was implemented. In the fracture cohort, Dmab and oral BP users were matched 1:2 to no treatment (Dmab: 617 women, 154 men; oral BPs: 615 women, 266 men). In the no-fracture cohort, Dmab users were matched 1:1 with oral BPs and zoledronic acid (Zol) users (Dmab:oral BPs: 479 men, 1534 women; Dmab:Zol: 280 men, 625 women). Mortality risk was measured using sex-specific pairwise multivariable Cox models. In the fracture cohort, compared with no treatment, Dmab was associated with 48% lower mortality in women (hazard ratio [HR] = 0.52, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.36–0.72) but not in men. Oral BPs were associated with 44% lower mortality in both sexes (women HR = 0.56, 95% CI 0.42–0.77; men HR = 0.56, 95% CI 0.40–0.78). In the no-fracture cohort, compared with BPs, Dmab was associated with 1.5- to 2.5-fold higher mortality than oral BPs (women HR = 1.49, 95% CI 1.13–1.98; men HR = 2.74; 95% CI 1.82–4.11) but similar mortality to Zol. Dmab in women and oral BPs were associated with lower post-fracture mortality than no treatment. However, Dmab users had generally higher mortality than oral BP users in those without fractures. © 2023 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR).
Automatic Segmentation and Quantification of Nigrosome‐1 Neuromelanin and Iron in MRI: A Candidate Biomarker for Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Ariz Mikel , Martínez Martín , Alvarez Ignacio , Fernández‐Seara Maria A. , Castellanos Gabriel ,   The Catalonian Neuroimaging Parkinson's Disease Consortium, Pastor Pau , Pastor Maria A. , Ortiz de Solórzano Carlos
Published: November 2023

Background

There is a lack of automated tools for the segmentation and quantification of neuromelanin (NM) and iron in the nigrosome‐1 (N1). Existing tools evaluate the N1 sign, i.e., the presence or absence of the “swallow‐tail” in iron‐sensitive MRI, or globally analyze the MRI signal in an area containing the N1, without providing a volumetric delineation.

Purpose

Present an automated method to segment the N1 and quantify differences in N1's NM and iron content between Parkinson's disease (PD) patients and healthy controls (HCs). Study whether N1 degeneration is clinically related to PD and could be used as a biomarker of the disease.

Study Type

Prospective.

Subjects

Seventy‐one PD (65.3 ± 10.3 years old, 34 female/37 male); 30 HC (62.7 ± 7.8 years old, 17 female/13 male).

Field Strength/Sequence

3 T Anatomical T1‐weighted MPRAGE, NM‐MRI T1‐weighted gradient with magnetization transfer, susceptibility‐weighted imaging (SWI).

Assessment

N1 was automatically segmented in SWI images using a multi‐image atlas, populated with healthy N1 structures manually annotated by a neurologist. Relative NM and iron content were quantified and their diagnostic performance assessed and compared with the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNc). The association between image parameters and clinically relevant variables was studied.

Statistical Tests

Nonparametric tests were used (Mann–Whitney's U, chi‐square, and Friedman tests) at P = 0.05.

Results

N1's relative NM content decreased and relative iron content increased in PD patients compared with HCs (NM‐CRHC = 22.55 ± 1.49; NM‐CRPD = 19.79 ± 1.92; NM‐nVolHC = 2.69 × 10−5 ± 1.02 × 10−5; NM‐nVolPD = 1.18 × 10−5 ± 0.96 × 10−5; Iron‐CRHC = 10.51 ± 2.64; Iron‐CRPD = 19.35 ± 7.88; Iron‐nVolHC = 0.72 × 10−5 ± 0.81 × 10−5; Iron‐nVolPD = 2.82 × 10−5 ± 2.04 × 10−5). Binary logistic regression analyses combining N1 and SNc image parameters yielded a top AUC = 0.955. Significant correlation was found between most N1 parameters and both disease duration (ρNM‐CR = −0.31; ρiron‐CR = 0.43; ρiron‐nVol = 0.46) and the motor status (ρNM‐nVol = −0.27; ρiron‐CR = 0.33; ρiron‐nVol = 0.28), suggesting NM reduction along with iron accumulation in N1 as the disease progresses.

Data Conclusion

This method provides a fully automatic N1 segmentation, and the analyses performed reveal that N1 relative NM and iron quantification improves diagnostic performance and suggest a relative NM reduction along with a relative iron accumulation in N1 as the disease progresses.

Evidence Level

1

Technical Efficacy

Stage 1
Intratumoral and Peritumoral Radiomics Based on Preoperative MRI for Evaluation of Programmed Cell Death Ligand‐1 Expression in Breast Cancer
Authors: Wu Zengjie , Lin Qing , Wang Haibo , Chen Jingjing , Wang Guanqun , Fu Guangming , Li Lili , Bian Tiantian
Published: November 2023

Background

Programmed cell death ligand‐1 (PD‐L1) is a promising target for immune checkpoint blockade therapy in breast cancer. However, the preoperative evaluation of PD‐L1 expression in breast cancer is rarely explored.

Purpose

To determine the ability of radiomics signatures based on preoperative dynamic contrast‐enhanced (DCE) MRI to evaluate PD‐L1 expression in breast cancer.

Study Type

Retrospective.

Population

196 primary breast cancer patients with preoperative MRI and postoperative pathological evaluation of PD‐L1 expression, divided into training (n = 137, 28 PD‐L1‐positive) and test cohorts (n = 59, 12 PD‐L1‐positive).

Field Strength/Sequence

3.0T; volume imaging for breast assessment DCE sequence.

Assessment

Radiomics features were extracted from the first phase of DCE‐MRI by using the minimum redundancy maximum relevance method and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator algorithm. Three radiomics signatures were constructed based on the intratumoral, peritumoral, and combined intra‐ and peritumoral regions. The performance of the signatures was assessed using area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve (AUC), sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy.

Statistical Tests

Univariable and multivariable logistic regression analysis, t‐tests, chi‐square tests, Fisher exact test or Yates correction, ROC analysis, and one‐way analysis of variance. P < 0.05 was considered significant.

Results

In the test cohort, the combined radiomics signature (AUC, 0.853) exhibited superior performance compared to the intratumoral (AUC, 0.816; P = 0.528) and peritumoral radiomics signatures (AUC, 0.846; P = 0.905) in PD‐L1 status evaluation, although the differences did not reach statistical significance.

Data Conclusion

Intratumoral and peritumoral radiomics signatures based on preoperative breast MRI showed some potential accuracy for the non‐invasive evaluation of PD‐L1 status in breast cancer.

Level of Evidence

4

Technical Efficacy

Stage 2
Thoracic Aortic Volume as a Predictor of Cardiovascular Events: The Multi‐Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis
Authors: Sanampudi Sreeja , Teixidó‐Turà Gisela , Fujii Tomoki , Noda Chikara , Redhueil Alban , Wu Colin O. , Hundley W. Gregory , Gomes Antoinette S. , Bluemke David A. , Lima João A.C. , Ambale‐Venkatesh Bharath
Published: November 2023

Background

It is unclear whether thoracic aortic volume (TAV) is useful for cardiovascular (CV) disease prognosis and risk assessment.

Purpose

This study evaluated cross‐sectional associations of TAV with CV risk factors, and longitudinal association with incident CV events in the multiethnic study of atherosclerosis.

Study Type

Retrospective cohort analysis of prospective data.

Population

1182 participants (69 ± 9 years, 54% female, 37% Caucasian, 18% Chinese, 31% African American, 14% Hispanic, 60% hypertensive, and 20% diabetic) without prior CV disease.

Field Strength and sequences

Axial black‐blood turbo spin echo or bright blood steady‐state free precession images on 1.5T scanners.

Assessment

TAV was calculated using Simpson's method from axial images, and included the ascending arch and descending segments. Traditional CV risk factors were assessed at the time of MRI. CV outcomes over a 9‐year follow‐up period were recorded and represented a composite of stroke, stroke death, coronary heart disease (CHD), CHD death, atherosclerotic death, and CVD death.

Statistical Tests

Multivariable linear regression models adjusted for height and weight were used to determine the relationship (β coefficient) between TAV and CV risk factors. Cox regression models assessed the association of TAV and incident CV events. A P‐value of <0.05 was deemed statistically significant.

Results

Mean TAV was = 139 ± 41 mL. In multivariable regression, TAV was directly associated with age (β = 1.6), male gender (β = 23.9), systolic blood pressure (β = 0.1), and hypertension medication use (β = 7.9); and inversely associated with lipid medication use (β = −5.3) and treated diabetes (β = −8.9). Compared to Caucasians, Chinese Americans had higher TAV (β = 11.4), while African Americans had lower TAV (β = −7.0). Higher TAV was independently associated with incident CV events (HR: 1.057 per 10 mL).

Conclusion

Greater TAV is associated with incident CV events, increased age, and hypertension in a large multiethnic population while treated diabetes and lipid medication use were associated with lower TAV.

Level of Evidence

2

Technical Efficacy

Stage 2
Advancing scientific inquiry through data reuse: Necessary condition analysis with archival data
Authors: Dul Jan , van Raaij Erik , Caputo Andrea
Published: November 2023

This article discusses the importance of reusing existing data in research. In addition to reuse data for replication of earlier findings and for answering extended or new research questions, we propose a third application of data reuse: studying the phenomenon from an alternative causal perspective. We focus on the reuse of data with a necessity causal perspective (“if not X, then not Y”) as employed in necessary condition analysis (NCA). Such reuse of data offers additional insights compared with those obtained from the conventional probabilistic causal perspective (“if X, then probably Y”) as employed in regression analysis. NCA is gaining recognition in various fields, including strategic management. Reusing data for conducting NCA is an efficient way to get new causal insights. We provide recommendations on how to use NCA with existing data and emphasize the importance of transparency when reusing data.
Diagnostic Value of the HEAD‐US‐C Scale for the Knees of Severe Hemophilia A Patients
Authors: Fang Yunmei , Sun Rui , Chang Jingxuan , Zhang Cuiming
Published: November 2023

Objectives

This study aimed to assess the reliability of the Hemophilia Early Arthropathy Detection with Ultrasound in China (HEAD‐US‐C) scale for the knees of severe hemophilia A (SHA) patients and to determine its diagnostic accuracy for assessments of knee‐joint lesions in comparison with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Methods

We collected data from 32 knee joints of 21 patients diagnosed with SHA. The knees were evaluated based on the HEAD‐US‐C scale and the results were compared with the International Prevention Study Group (IPSG) scale. The HEAD‐US‐C scale was applied independently by two trained ultrasonographers blinded to the MRI results. The IPSG scale was applied independently by two radiologists blinded to the clinical data and ultrasound (US) results.

Results

The IPSG and HEAD‐US‐C scales exhibited good to excellent inter‐rater reliability. Additionally, there was good to excellent agreement between the US and MRI results for the detection of knee lesions in SHA patients. The sensitivities of US for joint effusion, synovial hyperplasia, cartilage loss, and bone‐surface irregularities in the knees of patients were 92.59, 100, 95.45, and 87.50%, respectively. The HEAD‐US‐C scale was positively correlated with the IPSG scale.

Conclusions

US is important for evaluating knee lesions in patients with SHA and may potentially replace MRI.
Feasibility and Safety of 5G‐Based Telerobotic Abdominal Ultrasonography
Authors: Liang Wei‐Hsin , Chan Sean‐Chen , Lee Ho‐Hsin , Hung Shang‐Chih , Lin Ching‐Chung , Chen Chih‐Jen , Chen Ming‐Jen , Lai Jian‐Han
Published: November 2023

Objective

Telemedicine can offer services to remote patients regardless of the distance. Fifth‐generation (5G) mobile networks may make telemedicine practical because of their low latency. This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility and safety of a novel 5G robot‐assisted remote abdominal ultrasound (AUS) telemedicine technology in clinical applications in distant locations.

Methods

We performed 5G‐based telerobotic AUS in patients who were located more than 100 km away from the physicians.

Results

The telerobotic AUS had a longer examination time than the conditional bedside AUS; however, the complete examination rate was not inferior. None of the volunteers experienced discomfort during the examination and the examination time was acceptable for all.

Conclusion

Our findings confirm the feasibility and safety of 5G‐based telerobotic AUS in clinical practice.
Reduced miR‐513a‐5p expression in COPD may regulate airway mucous cell hyperplasia through TFR1‐dependent signaling
Authors: Zhou Jia , Du Jun‐Yi , Xu Rui , Wu Xiao‐Juan , Zhang Guo‐Yue
Published: November 2023

Airway mucous cell metaplasia and mucous hypersecretion is one of the key characteristic pathophysiological status of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). micro(mi)RNAs are acknowledged as non‐encoding RNA molecules playing important roles in gene expression regulation. In this study, we searched the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database for the differentially expressed miRNAs between COPD and non‐COPD controls with bioinformatics analysis. Finally, we focused on miR‐513a‐5p and investigated the potential mechanism by which miR‐513a‐5p regulates airway mucous hypersecretion and goblet cell metaplasia. A dual‐luciferase reporter assay was then showing that miR‐513a‐5p targeted the 3′‐UTR of TFR1 and inhibited its expression in vitro. In vivo transfection demonstrated that TFR1 downregulation partially blocked MUC5AC hypersecretion and goblet cell hyperplasia in COPD model rats. In vitro study, CSE increased the intracellular expression and secretion of MUC5AC by BEAS‐2B branchial epithelial cells in the BEAS‐2B cell and THP‐1 cell coculture system. Coculture with either miR‐513a‐5p mimic‐pretreated or TFR1‐deficient THP‐1 cells attenuated intracellular MUC5AC expression in BEAS‐2B cells exposed to CSE. ELISA demonstrated that transfection of TFR1 siRNA or pretreatment with miR‐513a‐5p mimic reduced the secretion of inflammatory factors that are responsible for airway goblet cell hyperplasia, such as IL‐1β, IL‐13, and IL‐17, by THP‐1 cells after CSE stimulation. Our findings supported that miR‐513a‐5p/TFR1 signaling axis might activate macrophages as well as promote airway inflammation and airway mucous cell hyperplasia in COPD.
A simple and low‐cost open dynamic chamber for the versatile determination of methane emissions from aquatic surfaces
Authors: Rodríguez‐García Víctor Germán , Palma‐Gallardo Leobardo Ottmar , Silva‐Olmedo Francisco , Thalasso Frederic
Published: November 2023

Methane (CH4) emissions from aquatic ecosystems require accurate monitoring in the context of climate change. Among the several methods for CH4 flux measurement, open dynamic chambers (ODC) are a reliable option. This method consists of a floating chamber through which a carrier gas is constantly flowing, providing accurate flux measurement with high temporal resolution. However, this method requires expensive and heavy CH4 analyzers with high sensitivity, as well as a carrier gas system that comprises a gas cylinder and a gas flow controller, among other components. This system involves significant weight and cost challenges, limiting method implementation in certain settings and hindering its wider adoption. To address these limitations, we developed a simplified ODC configuration using atmospheric air as the carrier gas and a light and relatively less expensive detector. We applied this method to a 450‐ha urban lake with CH4 emissions ranging from moderate diffusive to high ebullitive fluxes. Concurrent measurements using a high‐sensitivity CH4 analyzer allowed us to compare the accuracy of the simplified ODC method and to assess its advantages and disadvantages. Results show that our method provides accurate CH4 flux measurements with a spatial resolution comparable to high‐sensitivity analyzers. This offers a more cost‐effective, straightforward, and lightweight alternative to high‐sensitivity detectors and carrier gas systems, simplifying ODC deployment in aquatic ecosystems.
Qualitative assessment of the impact of restricting number of drug treatments for rheumatoid arthritis: Experience of prescribers and patients
Authors: Walker David , Robinson Sandra
Published: November 2023

Introduction

In 2020, almost half of all Clinical Commissioning Groups in England were restricting the number of higher cost drugs (HCDs) that could be prescribed for Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) before an Individual Funding Request was required. We were interested in qualitatively exploring the experiences of prescribers affected by these restrictions and the experiences of patients who required four or more of these drugs.

Methods

Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with five prescribers in restricted areas and six patients from our own service who had received four or more HCDs. The interviews were analysed thematically.

Results

Prescribers reported feeling distressed and frustrated by the unsatisfactory service they were constrained to provide. Some prescribers continued partially effective treatments in order not to run out of options. They did not find Individual Funding Requests or the Blueteq High Cost Drug (HCD) System helpful in the management of these patients. The Blueteq HCD System is an electronic platform that allows health managers to monitor the prescribing of high‐cost medicines and manage the complexities associated with their use. Patients expressed severe distress at the prospect of running out of options and anxiety around the process of gaining approval for their next treatment.

Conclusions

Restricting drugs for RA by the number which can be prescribed results in persistence with partially effective treatments, which is unsatisfactory for prescribers and patients, further it does not save money. Patients need to travel in their journey with RA and be able to try the next drug even though they know that it may not work.
The u‐p approximation versus the exact dynamic equations for anisotropic fluid‐saturated solids. II. Harmonic waves
Authors: Osinov Vladimir A.
Published: November 2023

The paper presents a comparative analysis of three systems of dynamic equations for fluid‐saturated solids: the exact equations and two simplified versions known as the u‐p approximations obtained by neglecting certain acceleration terms in the exact equations. The constitutive relations for the solid skeleton are written in the general anisotropic incrementally linear form without considering any specific constitutive model or a particular type of anisotropy. The dynamic equations are compared in relation to the existence of solutions in the form of plane harmonic waves. Emphasis is placed on finding conditions for the non‐existence or existence of growing waves whose amplitude increases in time or space as the wave propagates. The conditions are formulated in terms of the acoustic tensor of the skeleton and the compressibility of the pore fluid. In particular, it is shown that for a hyperelastic skeleton, the exact equations and one of the u‐p approximations do not have growing wave solutions, whereas the other u‐p approximation may have such solutions even if the skeleton is hyperelastic.
Association between copy number variations in parkin (PRKN) and schizophrenia and autism spectrum disorder: A case–control study
Authors: Lo Tzuyao , Kushima Itaru , Kimura Hiroki , Aleksic Branko , Okada Takashi , Kato Hidekazu , Inada Toshiya , Nawa Yoshihiro , Torii Youta , Yamamoto Maeri , Kimura Ryo , Funabiki Yasuko , Kosaka Hirotaka , Numata Shusuke , Kasai Kiyoto , Sasaki Tsukasa , Yokoyama Shigeru , Munesue Toshio , Hashimoto Ryota , Yasuda Yuka , Fujimoto Michiko , Usami Masahide , Itokawa Masanari , Arai Makoto , Ohi Kazutaka , Someya Toshiyuki , Watanabe Yuichiro , Egawa Jun , Takahashi Tsutomu , Suzuki Michio , Yamasue Hidenori , Iwata Nakao , Ikeda Masashi , Ozaki Norio
Published: November 2023

Aim

The present study aimed to examine the association between copy number variations (CNVs) in parkin (PRKN) and schizophrenia (SCZ) and autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in a large case–control sample.

Method

Array comparative genomic hybridization was performed on 3111 cases with SCZ, 1236 cases with ASD, and 2713 controls. We systematically prioritized likely pathogenic CNVs (LP‐CNVs) in PRKN and examined their association with SCZ and ASD.

Results

In total, 3014 SCZ cases (96.9%), 1205 ASD cases (97.5%), and 2671 controls (98.5%) passed quality control. We found that monoallelic carriers of LP‐CNVs in PRKN were common (70/6890, 1.02%) and were not at higher risk of SCZ (p = 0.29) or ASD (p = 0.72). We observed that the distribution pattern of LP‐CNVs in the Japanese population was consistent with those in other populations. We also identified a patient diagnosed with SCZ and early‐onset Parkinson's disease carrying biallelic pathogenic CNVs in PRKN. The absence of Parkinson's symptoms in 10 other monoallelic carriers of the same pathogenic CNV further reflects the lack of effect of monoallelic pathogenic variants in PRKN in the absence of a second hit.

Conclusion

The present findings suggest that monoallelic CNVs in PRKN do not confer a significant risk for SCZ or ASD. However, further studies to investigate the association between biallelic CNVs in PRKN and SCZ and ASD are warranted.
A new parameter to describe crippling strength: Experimental and theoretical investigations for post‐buckling behaviors of the composite structures
Authors: Yıldırım Emine Gülşah , Ünal Rahmi
Published: November 2023

The post‐buckling strength, which is simply called as crippling, is investigated for laminated composite structures in this study. L profiles that had various stacking sequences of carbon fiber reinforced epoxies were tested. Three different layups configurations were used by changing flange‐to‐thickness ratios. The main objective of this research was to show that flange‐to‐thickness ratio was not the only effecting parameter for crippling. Therefore, a new parameter, EGY number, was developed by considering the positions of 0° and 45° plies. Depending on EGY number, a new semi‐empirical formulation was presented to calculate crippling strength of the laminated composite structures. One of the test results was employed to verification of EGY number. In addition, the test results were validated with finite element analyses. Static, Riks and Dynamic, Explicit computational results were compared to simulate the experiments.

Highlights

Determination of crippling strength both experimentally and theoretically.

Comparison of numerical models: Static, Riks versus Dynamic, Explicit.

Developing a new parameter called as EGY number.

Developing of a new analytical semi‐empirical formula for crippling strength.
Arpeggio fest in Frauenhand
Authors: Mathelitsch Leopold , Verovnik Ivo
Published: November 2023

Die Harfe ist ein uraltes Instrument, das bereits in altägyptischen Darstellungen abgebildet ist. Sie ist Kulturgut vieler Völker. Traditionelle Harfen sind allerdings in einer Tonart gestimmt. Für einen Tonartwechsel muss umgestimmt werden. Das galt auch für die chromatischen Doppel‐ und Tripelharfen der Barock‐ und Rokokozeit. Erst Sébastien Érards Patente von 1810 ermöglichten die Konstruktion moderner Konzertharfen, die über sieben Pedale in allen Tonarten spielbar sind. Die typische Form der Harfe ist durch die physikalischen Eigenschaften der Saiten vorgegeben. Im Wesentlichen basiert sie aus einem Zusammenspiel zwischen der linear geformten unteren Aufhängeleiste und einer abschnittsweise exponentiellen Form des oberen Halses.
Effect of anisotropic deformation on the differential scanning calorimetry response of polymer glasses
Authors: Song Hosup , Medvedev Grigori A. , Caruthers James M.
Published: November 2023

Large anisotropic deformation affects the physical state of a polymer glass, where the changes in the state of material are revealed by performing a differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) experiment. Previously, the deformation was applied to polymers well below their glass transition temperatures, and it was found that uniaxial compressive loading–unloading resulted in a broad exothermic peak on the DSC trace. Here we report on the effect on the subsequent DSC response of a deformation experiment performed in uniaxial extension on a ductile 50:50 co‐polymer poly(BMA‐co‐MMA) (PBMA/MMA). The deformation of up to 80% strain was applied at Tg − 30°C and Tg − 40°C, that is, closer to Tg than in the previous work. Unlike in the well below Tg deformation case, the DSC trace contains an endothermic peak followed by an exothermic peak. The magnitude of the endothermic peak as well as the asymptotic glassy heat capacity increase with the amount of mechanical work performed during the deformation cycle.
Integrative modeling of guanylate binding protein dimers
Authors: Schumann Wibke , Loschwitz Jennifer , Reiners Jens , Degrandi Daniel , Legewie Larissa , Stühler Kai , Pfeffer Klaus , Poschmann Gereon , Smits Sander H. J. , Strodel Birgit
Published: November 2023

Guanylate‐binding proteins (GBPs) are essential interferon‐γ‐activated large GTPases that play a crucial role in host defense against intracellular bacteria and parasites. While their protective functions rely on protein polymerization, our understanding of the structural intricacies of these multimerized states remains limited. To bridge this knowledge gap, we present dimer models for human GBP1 (hGBP1) and murine GBP2 and 7 (mGBP2 and mGBP7) using an integrative approach, incorporating the crystal structure of hGBP1's GTPase domain dimer, crosslinking mass spectrometry, small‐angle X‐ray scattering, protein–protein docking, and molecular dynamics simulations. Our investigation begins by comparing the protein dynamics of hGBP1, mGBP2, and mGBP7. We observe that the M/E domain in all three proteins exhibits significant mobility and hinge motion, with mGBP7 displaying a slightly less pronounced motion but greater flexibility in its GTPase domain. These dynamic distinctions can be attributed to variations in the sequences of mGBP7 and hGBP1/mGBP2, resulting in different dimerization modes. Unlike hGBP1 and its close ortholog mGBP2, which exclusively dimerize through their GTPase domains, we find that mGBP7 exhibits three equally probable alternative dimer structures. The GTPase domain of mGBP7 is only partially involved in its dimerization, primarily due to an accumulation of negative charge, allowing mGBP7 to dimerize independently of GTP. Instead, mGBP7 exhibits a strong tendency to dimerize in an antiparallel arrangement across its stalks. The results of this work go beyond the sequence–structure–function relationship, as the sequence differences in mGBP7 and mGBP2/hGBP1 do not lead to different structures, but to different protein dynamics and dimerization. The distinct GBP dimer structures are expected to encode specific functions crucial for disrupting pathogen membranes.
The 29th Annual Prostate Cancer Foundation Scientific Retreat Report
Authors: Miyahira Andrea K. , Soule Howard R.
Published: November 2023

Background

The 29th Annual Prostate Cancer Foundation (PCF) Scientific Retreat was held from October 27 to 29, 2022, at the Omni La Costa Resort in Carlsbad, CA. This was the first‐ever hybrid PCF Retreat.

Methods

The Annual PCF Scientific Retreat is a prominent international scientific gathering centered on groundbreaking, unpublished, and influential studies in basic, translational, and clinical prostate cancer research. It also covers research from related fields with a strong potential for influencing prostate cancer research and patient care.

Results

Key areas of research that were focused on at the 2022 PCF Retreat included: (i) the contributions of molecular and genomic factors to prostate cancer disparities; (ii) novel clinical trial updates; (iii) lessons from primary prostate cancer; (iv) lessons from single‐cell studies; (v) genetic, epigenetic, epitranscriptomic and posttranslational mechanisms and clinical heterogeneity in prostate cancer; (vi) biology of neuroendocrine and lineage‐plastic prostate cancer; (vii) next generation prostate cancer theranostics and combination therapies; (viii) the biology and therapeutic potential of targeting phosphoinositide 3‐kinases pathways; (ix) combining immunomodulatory treatments for prostate cancer; (x) novel gamma delta (γδ) T‐cell therapy platforms for oncology; and (xi) lessons from other cancers.

Conclusions

This article provides a summary of the presentations from the 2022 PCF Scientific Retreat. By disseminating this knowledge, we hope to enhance our understanding of the present research landscape and guide future strides in both prostate cancer research and patient care.
Discovery of insecticide resistance in field‐collected populations of the aphid pest, Acyrthosiphon kondoi Shinji
Authors: Chirgwin Evatt , Thia Joshua A , Copping Katrina , Umina Paul A
Published: November 2023

BACKGROUND

The bluegreen aphid (Acyrthosiphon kondoi) is a worldwide pest of alfalfa, pulses, and other legume crops. An overreliance on insecticides to control A. kondoi has potentially placed populations under selection pressure favouring resistant phenotypes, but to date, there have been no documented cases of insecticide resistance. Recently, Australian growers began reporting that conventional insecticides were failing to adequately control A. kondoi populations, prompting this laboratory‐based investigation into whether these populations have evolved resistance.

RESULTS

We discovered four A. kondoi populations with moderate resistance (10–40‐fold) to three different insecticide groups: organophosphates, carbamates and pyrethroids. However, A. kondoi populations showed no resistance to the butenolide, flupyradifurone. We were unable to identify general metabolic mechanisms using synergist assays (cytochromes P450, glutathione S‐transferases, or esterases), indicating that further detailed molecular investigations to characterise the putative resistance mechanism are needed.

CONCLUSION

Insecticide‐resistant A. kondoi present an emerging challenge to Australian agriculture. Growers require new tools and updated strategies, including access to newer chemistries, to alleviate their reliance on the few insecticides currently registered against A. kondoi. The implications of insecticide resistant A. kondoi for future management, the potential mechanisms of resistance, and future research priorities are discussed. © 2023 The Authors. Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Back pressure generated by downwash and crosswind on spatial atomization characteristics during UAV spraying: CFD analysis and verification
Authors: Feng Han , Xu Pingfan , Yang Shenghui , Zheng Yongjun , Li Wenwei , Liu Weihong , Zhao Hangxing , Jiang Shijie
Published: November 2023

BACKGROUND

During unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) spraying, downwash and crosswind generate back pressure in comprehensive, which changes in spatial atomization characteristics of spraying droplets. However, the process of such atomization characteristics needs to be clarified. This study focuses on the effect of rotor speed and crosswind speed on spatial atomization characteristics. The computational fluid dynamics (CFD) models of the distributions of airflow, back pressure and atomization characteristics were established, and verification was conducted by developing a validation platform.

RESULTS

The CFD results indicated that small droplets of 65–130 μm atomized by negative pressure would be coalesced near the nozzle, while large droplets of 390–520 μm atomized by positive pressure would be aggregated further away. Crosswind caused atomization stratification with droplet sizes of approximately 90 μm, 320 μm and 390 μm. When crosswind speed increased from 3 m/s to 6 m/s, the spraying drifted from 0.5 m to 1 m. When rotor speed increased from 2000 RPM to 3000 RPM, droplet distribution was expanded and droplet particle size was more uniform. Verification results demonstrated that the spraying distribution and the droplet size variation were consistent with the CFD.

CONCLUSIONS

Spatial atomization characteristics were highly correlated with airflow and back pressure. Moreover, as crosswind generated droplet drift and atomization stratification and downwash could improve the uniformity of droplet distribution, spraying performance was superior by enhancing downwash to restrain the adverse effect of crosswind in real applications. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Application of the model‐informed drug development paradigm to datopotamab deruxtecan dose selection for late‐stage development
Authors: Lu Yasong , Liang Shuang , Hong Ying , Tajima Naoyuki , Patel Kashyap , Li Hanbin , Wada David R. , Greenberg Jon , Petrich Adam , Zebger‐Gong Hong , Shuster Dale , Vaddady Pavan
Published: November 2023

To replace the conventional maximum tolerated dose (MTD) approach, a paradigm for dose optimization and dose selection that relies on model‐informed drug development (MIDD) approaches has been proposed in oncology. Here, we report our application of an MIDD approach during phase I to inform dose selection for the late‐stage development of datopotamab deruxtecan (Dato‐DXd). Dato‐DXd is a TROP2‐directed antibody‐drug conjugate being developed for advanced/metastatic non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and other tumors. Data on pharmacokinetics (PKs), efficacy, and safety in NSCLC were collected in the TROPION‐PanTumor01 phase I dose‐expansion and ‐escalation study over a wide dose range of 0.27–10 mg/kg administered every 3 weeks. Population PK and exposure–response analyses were performed iteratively at three data cutoffs to inform dose selection. The 6 mg/kg dose was identified as the optimal dose by the second data cutoff analysis and confirmed by the subsequent third data cutoff analysis. The 6 mg/kg dose was more tolerable (i.e., lower rates of interstitial lung disease, stomatitis, and mucosal inflammation) than the MTD (8 mg/kg) and was more efficacious than 4 mg/kg (simulated mean objective response rate: 23.8% vs. 18.6%; mean hazard ratio of progression‐free survival: 0.74) – a candidate dose studied just below 6 mg/kg. Therefore, the 6 mg/kg dose was judged to afford the optimal benefit–risk balance. This case study demonstrated the utility of an MIDD approach for dose optimization and dose selection.
A comparison of Rosenbrock–Wanner and Crank–Nicolson time integrators for atmospheric modelling
Authors: Lee David
Published: November 2023

Nonhydrostatic atmospheric models often use semi‐implicit temporal discretisations in order to negate the time‐step limitation of explicitly resolving the fast acoustic and gravity waves. Solving the resulting system to machine precision using Newton's method is considered prohibitively expensive, and so the nonlinear solver is typically truncated to a fixed number of iterations, often using an approximate Jacobian matrix that is reassembled only once per time step. The present article studies the impact of using various third‐order, four stage Rosenbrock–Wanner schemes, where integration weights are chosen to meet specific stability and order conditions, in comparison to a Crank–Nicolson time discretisation, as is done in the UK Met Office's LFRic model. Rosenbrock–Wanner schemes present a promising alternative on account of their ability to preserve their temporal order with only an approximate Jacobian, and may be constructed to be stiffly‐stable, so as to ensure the decay of fast unresolved modes. These schemes are compared for the 2D rotating shallow‐water equations and the 3D compressible Euler equations at both planetary and nonhydrostatic scales and are shown to exhibit improved results in terms of their energetic profiles and stability. Results in terms of computational performance are mixed, with the Crank–Nicolson method allowing for longer time steps and faster time to solution for the baroclinic instability test case at planetary scales, and the Rosenbrock–Wanner methods allowing for longer time steps and faster time to solution for a rising bubble test case at nonhydrostatic scales.
The inner life of the Atlantic Intertropical Convergence Zone
Authors: Windmiller Julia M. , Stevens Bjorn
Published: November 2023

The Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) is a central component of the atmospheric general circulation, but remarkably little is known about the dynamical and thermodynamical structure of the convergence zone itself. This is true even for the structure of the low‐level convergence that gives the ITCZ its name. Following on from the major international field campaigns in the 1960s and 1970s, we performed extensive atmospheric profiling of the Atlantic ITCZ during a ship‐based measurement campaign aboard the research vessel SONNE in summer 2021. Combining data collected during our north–south crossing of the ITCZ with reanalysis data shows the ITCZ to be a meridionally extended region of intense precipitation, with enhanced surface convergence at its edges rather than in the center. Based on the location of these edges, we construct a composite view of the structure of the Atlantic ITCZ. The ITCZ, far from being simply a region of enhanced deep convection, has a rich inner life, that is, a rich dynamical and thermodynamic structure that changes throughout the course of the year, and has a northern edge that differs systematically from the southern edge.
Paddy field object detection for robotic combine based on real‐time semantic segmentation algorithm
Authors: Zhu Jiajun , Iida Michihisa , Chen Sikai , Cheng Shijing , Suguri Masahiko , Masuda Ryohei
Published: November 2023

The development of robotic combine for rice harvesting has garnered worldwide attention in recent years. The robotic combine is capable of running along a designated path; however, it still requires human operator supervision due to the lack of object detection sensors for safety purposes. To achieve a fully unmanned robotic combine, a real‐time paddy field object detection method is necessary. Typically, all paddy field objects are detected individually using multiple algorithms and sensors, which significantly increases the complexity and cost of the detection process. In this study, the deep learning (DL) based semantic segmentation (SS) method was employed to detect all paddy field objects simultaneously using only an RGB camera. Considering the environment of the paddy field, a new SS model called “The Robotic Combine Network (TRCNet)” was specifically designed for the robotic combine. And four state‐of‐the‐art lightweight convolutional neural networks were applied as the backbones of the TRCNet. To achieve real‐time detection, TensorRT (NVIDIA) was utilized for speeding up the prediction process. All models were trained and evaluated using paddy field images captured during the robotic combine's harvesting process. The results showed that the TRCNet can successfully detect all paddy field objects. The mean intersection over union, and frames per second (FPS) of the best two SS models were 0.823, 47.48, and 0.834, 32.44, respectively. The FPS values were obtained after speed acceleration and tested with an image size of 640 × 480 pixels on an embedded processor (Jetson TX2), enabling real‐time object detection in paddy fields for the robotic combine.
Photoresponsive ion‐pairing assemblies
Authors: Haketa Yohei , Sengupta Rima , Maeda Hiromitsu
Published: November 2023

This review provides an overview of the π‐electronic ion pairs and assemblies that demonstrate photoresponsive behaviors through photoisomerization and photoinduced electron transfer. Various ion pairs arise from the incorporation of ionic substituents to photoisomerizable π‐electronic systems, such as azobenzene and diarylethene moieties, and their association with counterions. Conversely, numerous ion pairs, made up of positively and negatively charged π‐electronic systems serving as electron acceptor and donor units, respectively, are prepared through ion‐pair metathesis. In both scenarios, the design and synthesis of charged π‐electronic systems play a crucial role in ion‐pairing assemblies. Moreover, the structures and properties of these assembled entities are influenced by the inclusion of accompanying counterions. These ion pairs display photoresponsive actions, including phase transitions through photoisomerization and the emergence of excited‐state radical pairs due to photoinduced electron transfer. Notably, π‐stacked ion pairs (π‐sips) composed of charged porphyrins transform into π‐stacked radical pairs (π‐srps) upon photoexcitation. Multiple components, as oppositely charged π‐electronic systems associated by noncovalent interactions, possessing varying electronic states and traits are suitable for switching behaviors in response to external stimuli.
Synthesis, Characterization, and Photophysical Probing Interaction Studies on Azo‐Sulfonamides Acting as Potent Anti‐Tubercular Agents
Authors: Krishnamurthy Chethan , Keshavayya J. , Yesudhasan Chinnaraj , Siva Ayyanar , Lohith T. N. , Sridhar M. A.
Published: November 2023

By utilizing the sulfamethizole component via the diazo‐coupling approach by electrophilic substitution process, an unprecedented series of four mono‐azo sulfonamide molecules were synthesized in good yield. Spectroscopic investigation unambiguously confirmed the structures of the newly synthesized mono‐azo sulfonamide derivatives, including FT‐IR, NMR (1H and 13C), HRMS, Uv‐Vis, and Photoluminescence (PL). In a variety of organic solvents, the 3‐diethylaminophenol coupled azo‐sulfonamide T3 showed a maximum bathochromic shift of λmax in the range 462–479 nm and in the region of 88–142 nm, a derivative of 2‐hydroxy‐1,4‐naphthoquinone T4 coupled azo colourant showed a significant Stokes shift. Conceptual density function theory was also used to build a new family of high energy density energetic mono‐azo sulfonamides. Frontier molecular orbitals (HOMO‐LUMO) and global reactivity descriptors were identified to analyze how molecules interact with one another. Further, the potency of the anti‐tubercular activity of the colorants was examined with the standards such as Isoniazid, Ethambutol, Pyrazinamide, Rifampicin, and Streptomycin. The results indicated that‐ Lawsone pigment (2‐hydroxy‐1,4‐naphthoquinone) incorporated azo molecule T4 displayed the sensitivity at 3.12 μg/mL compared with other the three mono‐azo molecules.
Concise Approach to the Synthesis of First Generation Anthranilic Diamide Insecticide, Chlorantraniliprole
Authors: Saikiran Aita , Banik Swarnayu , Ajay Chidrawar , Deepthi Pulivarthi , Gopalan Balasubramanian , Subba Reddy B. V.
Published: November 2023

An efficient and scalable process has been developed for the synthesis of anthranilic diamide insecticide i. e. chlorantraniliprole. The crucial step in this approach is the TiCl4‐mediated aza‐Fries rearrangement of aryl acetanilide to ortho‐aminoaryl ketone. Another key step is the nucleophilic substitution of tosylate into the corresponding bromide using NaBr in the presence of TBAB. All the steps in this synthesis are carried out effectively on a gram scale with excellent yields.
Development of Highly Efficient Heterogeneous Fe3O4‐Biochar Nanocomposite as Fenton‐like Catalysts for Degradation of Fast Green
Authors: Gogoi Aniruddha , Baithy Mallesham , Navgire Madhukar , Gogoi Nirmali , Borgohain Chandan , Kamal Senapati Kula , Sarmah Jayanta K. , Kim Jongwon , Gogoi Parikshit
Published: November 2023

Iron oxide and its carbon‐containing biochar have shown efficiencies in Fenton oxidation reactions in recent years. Though magnetic biochar composites have been reported, developing facile, environment‐friendly methods with appropriate activity remains challenging. Removing dye traces from aqueous solutions is a prime concern under water scarcity issues at different levels. We developed a catalyst of biochar with magnetite for dye remediation. Magnetite is homogeneously loaded on biochar surfaces to form Fe3O4‐biochar to efficiently activate H2O2 to achieve hydroxyl radicals. This catalyst degrades Fast green dye efficiently around 89.3 % within 60 min with the optimum reaction conditions of 15 mM Fast Green dye, pH=4, 30 mg of Fe3O4‐biochar and 25 mM of H2O2. The composite shows around 41 % increase in the degradation rate after incorporating the Fe3O4 on biochar. The prepared Fe3O4‐biochar composite can be easily recycled without significant activity loss for five successive degradation reactions. The reported study provided a direction to prepare newer Fenton catalysts from sustainable sources for the degradation of organic dyes in water and overcame individual limitations of Fe3O4 and biochar.
Selective Synthesis of Symmetrical Thiosulfonates via Oxidative Coupling of Thiols Catalyzed by Diorganyl Diselenide
Authors: Silva Calebe H. L. , Soares Jéssica , Peixoto Carlos R. M. , Azeredo Juliano B. , de Souza Bruno S. , Rohers Juliano A. , Godoi Marcelo
Published: November 2023

A straightforward methodology for the synthesis of symmetrical thiosulfonates through direct oxidative coupling of thiols is reported. Dibutyl diselenide was suitably applied as a catalyst for the selective conversion of thiols into respective thiosulfonates in good yields. Moreover, mechanistic studies revealed a radical reaction pathway for the preparation of target products.