bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identifying potential significant factors impacting zero‐inflated proportion data
Authors: Ribaud Mélina , Gabriel Edith , Hughes Joseph , Soubeyrand Samuel
Published: June 2023

Classical supervised methods like linear regression and decision trees are not completely adapted for identifying impacting factors on a response variable corresponding to zero‐inflated proportion data (ZIPD) that are dependent, continuous and bounded. In this article we propose a within‐block permutation‐based methodology to identify factors (discrete or continuous) that are significantly correlated with ZIPD, we propose a performance indicator quantifying the percentage of correlation explained by the subset of significant factors, and we show how to predict the ranks of the response variables conditionally on the observation of these factors. The methodology is illustrated on simulated data and on two real data sets dealing with epidemiology. In the first data set, ZIPD correspond to probabilities of transmission of Influenza between horses. In the second data set, ZIPD correspond to probabilities that geographic entities (eg, states and countries) have the same COVID‐19 mortality dynamics.
Preparation of novel pyrazole substituted triazole libraries and estimation of their biological activity
Authors: Laxminarayana Vanaparti , Balha Megha , Tamminana Ramana
Published: June 2023

We have constructed a new library of 1,2,3‐triazole tethered pyrazole derivatives (6 a–h & 7 a–h) from propargyl alcohol through simultaneous click process, oxidation, condensation, and rearrangement under mild reaction conditions. The final products were obtained in moderate to good yields. All the compound structures were characterized by analytical and spectral (1H NMR, 13C NMR & HRMS) studies. Furthermore, the evaluation of biological activity of newly synthesized molecules was done against three human cancer cell lines, such as HeLa (Human cervical cancer), A549 (Human alveolar adenocarcinoma), MCF‐7 (Human breast adenocarcinoma). Compound 7 e has showed good anti‐proliferation activity with HeLa (IC50 0.13±0.02 μM), MCF‐7 (IC50 2.7±0.3 μM), while compounds 6 a and 6 g gave favourable anti‐proliferation against above three human cancer cell lines, compared with the standard drug Doxorubicin.
Ferric Ions Modulated Carbon Dots as a Fluorescent Probe for the Detection of Neopterin: An Inflammatory Prognostic Marker for Risk Prediction and Severity of Covid‐19
Authors: Anju S. Madanan , Asokan Aswathy O. , Varghese Susan , Merin K. Abraham , Shkhair Ali Ibrahim , Jose Vidya , Syamchand S. Sasidharanpillai. , George Sony
Published: June 2023

Neopterin (NPT) is a Guanosine Tri Phosphate (GTP) metabolite produced by activated macrophages and is considered a pro‐inflammatory and atherosclerotic agent. Beyond this NPT is a multi‐utility biomarker for assessing the status of various diseases including cardiovascular disease, depression, and malignant tumors as well as infections including viral and bacterial origin. Recent clinical investigations suggest the use NPT as a prognostic marker for the early prediction of the severity of Covid‐19, which is the prime concern of global public health. One of the main immunopathological characteristics of Covid‐19 is an excessive inflammatory response, and the severity of the infection is linked with macrophage activation syndrome (MAS). Hence the assessment of neopterin serves as an effective diagnostic tool for the risk prediction of Covid‐19. We present a fluorescence turn‐on sensor for neopterin using ferric ion‐modulated sulfur and nitrogen co‐doped carbon quantum dots. The linear detection of NPT was achieved with a limit of detection of 3.11 nM.
Click‐Generated Triazole‐Based Silanes: A Potent Chemosensor for Dihydrogen Phosphate
Authors: Singh Gurjaspreet , Tamana  , Deep Kaur Jashan , Gupta Sofia , Thakur Yamini , Malik Pooja , Singh Akshpreet , Priyanka  , Singh K. N.
Published: June 2023

Over the years, ground and surface water has been reported to be contaminated with phosphates. These phosphates are known to cause various diseases and if present in excess can lead to eutrophication. The known silane chemistry has not been thoroughly investigated for the sensing of anions. In the current study four new triazole based silanes have been prepared by the renowned Click Chemistry for the selective and sensitive detection of dihydrogen phosphate. The synthesized compounds were well characterized by various spectroscopic techniques and their absorptive and emissive responses were investigated for the recognition of dihydrogen phosphate ions. The binding ratio between triazole based silane chemosensor and dihydrogen phosphate has been discovered from Job's plot and was also confirmed by non‐linear fitting method. The value of association constant was found to be 571.18 M−1. The limit of detection (LOD) and limit of quantitation (LOQ) were calculated by fluorescence spectroscopy. The results obtained clearly illustrated that triazole based silane could be used as a potent chemosensor for selective and sensitive recognition of dihydrogen phosphate. Further, the possible binding site of chemosensor for dihydrogen phosphate has been identified from 1H NMR studies and DFT calculations. At last real sample analysis was performed to check the practical applicability of chemosensor.
Encapsulation of Nano‐Bortezomib in Apoptotic Stem Cell‐Derived Vesicles for the Treatment of Multiple Myeloma
Authors: Cao Zeyuan , Li Peiyi , Li Yuzhen , Zhang Manjin , Hao Meng , Li Wenwen , Mao Xueli , Mo Lijie , Yang Chuan , Ding Xin , Yang Yi Yan , Yuan Peiyan , Shi Songtao , Kou Xiaoxing
Published: June 2023

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are lipid bilayer nanovesicles released from living or apoptotic cells that can transport DNA, RNA, protein, and lipid cargo. EVs play critical roles in cell–cell communication and tissue homeostasis, and have numerous therapeutic uses including serving as carriers for nanodrug delivery. There are multiple ways to load EVs with nanodrugs, such as electroporation, extrusion, and ultrasound. However, these approaches may have limited drug‐loading rates, poor EV membrane stability, and high cost for large‐scale production. Here, it is shown that apoptotic mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) can encapsulate exogenously added nanoparticles into apoptotic vesicles (apoVs) with a high loading efficiency. When nano‐bortezomib is incorporated into apoVs in culture‐expanded apoptotic MSCs, nano‐bortezomib‐apoVs show a synergistic combination effect of bortezomib and apoVs to ameliorate multiple myeloma (MM) in a mouse model, along with significantly reduced side effects of nano‐bortezomib. Moreover, it is shown that Rab7 regulates the nanoparticle encapsulation efficiency in apoptotic MSCs and that activation of Rab7 can increase nanoparticle‐apoV production. In this study, a previously unknown mechanism to naturally synthesize nano‐bortezomib‐apoVs to improve MM therapy is revealed.
Fano‐Like Resonance from Disorder Correlation in Vacancy‐Doped Photonic Crystals
Authors: Pariente Jose Angel , Bayat Farzaneh , Blanco Alvaro , García‐Martín Antonio , Pecharromán Carlos , Marqués Manuel I. , López Cefe
Published: June 2023

By preparing colloidal crystals with random missing scatterers, crystals are created where disorder is embodied as vacancies in an otherwise perfect lattice. In this special system, there is a critical defect concentration where light propagation undergoes a transition from an all but perfect reflector (for the spectral range defined by the Bragg condition), to a metamaterial exhibiting an enhanced transmission phenomenon. It is shown that this behavior can be phenomenologically described in terms of Fano‐like resonances. The results show that the Fano's parameter q experiences a sign change signaling the transition from a perfect crystal exhibiting a reflectance Bragg peak, through a state where background scattering is maximum and Bragg reflectance reaches a minimum to a point where the system reenters a low scattering state recovering ordinary Bragg diffraction. A simple dipolar model considering the correlation between scatterers and vacancies is proposed and the reported evolution of the Fano‐like scattering is explained in terms of the emerging covariance between the optical paths and polarizabilities and the effect of field enhancement in photonic crystal (PhC) defects.
Enhanced Phosphorescence of Carbon Nanodots via Double Confinement for 3D Artworks with Long Emission Lifetimes
Authors: Lv Wen‐Hao , Cao Qing , Song Shi‐Yu , Liang Ya‐Chuan , Zhou Rui , Liu Kai‐Kai , Shan Chong‐Xin
Published: June 2023

Phosphorescent materials as block elements to build artwork incorporating the time and emission, enable them with spectacular lighting effects. In this work, enhanced phosphorescence of carbon nanodots (CNDs) is demonstrated via double confinement strategy, which silica and epoxy resin are used as the first and the second order confinement layer. The multi‐confined CNDs show an enhanced phosphorescence quantum yield up to 16.4%, with enduring emission lifetime up to 1.44 s. Delicately, the plasticity of the epoxy resin enables them easily to be designed for 3D artworks with long emission lifetimes in different shapes. The efficient and eco‐friendly phosphorescent CNDs may arouse intense interest both in the academic community and markets.
D‐Band Center Optimization of Edge‐Rich Ultrathin RuZn Nanosheets With Moiré Superlattices for pH‐Universal Hydrogen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Yu Rui , Cao Xi , Chen Qingqing , Li Wenjiang , Huang Aijian , Wei Xianwen , Mao Junjie
Published: June 2023

Electrocatalytic hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) is a promising way to produce pure and clean hydrogen. However, the preparation of efficient and economical catalysts for pH‐universal HER remains a challenging but rewarding task. Herein, ultrathin RuZn nanosheets (NSs) with moiré superlattices and abundant edges are synthesized. The RuZn NSs with unique structure exhibit superb HER performance with overpotentials of 11, 13, and 29 mV to achieve 10 mA cm−2 in 1 M KOH, 1 M PBS, and 0.5 M H2SO4, respectively, which is substantially lower than those of Ru NSs and RuZn NSs without moiré superlattices. Density functional theory investigations reveal that the charge transfer from Zn to Ru will lead the appropriate downshift of the d‐band center of surface Ru atoms, thus accelerating hydrogen desorption from the Ru sites, lowering the dissociation energy barrier of water and greatly improving the HER performance. This work provides an effective design scheme for high‐performance HER electrocatalysts over a wide pH range, and propose a general route to prepare Ru‐based bimetallic nanosheets with moiré superlattices.
Stabilized Anionic Redox by Rational Structural Design from Surface to Bulk for Long‐Life Fast‐Charging Li‐Rich Oxide Cathodes
Authors: Li Shihao , Guan Chaohong , Zhang Wei , Li Huangxu , Gao Xianggang , Zhang Shuai , Li Simin , Lai Yanqing , Zhang Zhian
Published: June 2023

On account of high capacity and high voltage resulting from anionic redox, Li‐rich layered oxides (LLOs) have become the most promising cathode candidate for the next‐generation high‐energy‐density lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs). Unfortunately, the participation of oxygen anion in charge compensation causes lattice oxygen evolution and accompanying structural degradation, voltage decay, capacity attenuation, low initial columbic efficiency, poor kinetics, and other problems. To resolve these challenges, a rational structural design strategy from surface to bulk by a facile pretreatment method for LLOs is provided to stabilize oxygen redox. On the surface, an integrated structure is constructed to suppress oxygen release, electrolyte attack, and consequent transition metals dissolution, accelerate lithium ions transport on the cathode–electrolyte interface, and alleviate the undesired phase transformation. While in the bulk, B doping into Li and Mn layer tetrahedron is introduced to increase the formation energy of O vacancy and decrease the lithium ions immigration barrier energy, bringing about the high stability of surrounding lattice oxygen and outstanding ions transport ability. Benefiting from the specific structure, the designed material with the enhanced structural integrity and stabilized anionic redox performs an excellent electrochemical performance and fast‐charging property..
Aminal‐Linked Covalent Organic Frameworks with hxl‐a and Quasi‐hcb Topologies for Efficient C2H6/C2H4 Separation
Authors: Yun Hongryeol , Kang Minjung , Kang Dong Won , Kim Hyojin , Choe Jong Hyeak , Kim Sun Young , Hong Chang Seop
Published: June 2023

In reticular chemistry, topology is a powerful concept for defining the structures of covalent organic frameworks (COFs). However, due to the lack of diversity in the symmetry and reaction stoichiometry of the monomers, only 5% of the two‐dimensional topologies have been reported to be COFs. To overcome the limitations of COF connectivity and pursue novel topologies in COF structures, two aminal‐linked COFs, KUF‐2 and KUF‐3, are prepared, with dumbbell‐shaped secondary building units. Linear dialdehydes and piperazine are condensed at a ratio of 1:2 to construct an aminal linkage, leading to unreported hxl‐a (KUF‐2) and quasi‐hcb (KUF‐3) structures. Notably, KUF‐3 displays top‐tier C2H6/C2H4 selectivity and C2H6 uptake at 298 K, outperforming most porous organic materials. The intrinsic aromatic ring‐rich and Lewis basic pore environments, and appropriate pore widths enable the selective adsorption of C2H6, as confirmed by Grand Canonical Monte Carlo simulations. Dynamic breakthrough curves revealed that C2H6 can be selectively separated from a gas mixture of C2H6 and C2H4. This study suggests that topology‐based design of aminal‐COFs is an effective strategy for expanding the field of reticular chemistry and provides the facile integration of strong Lewis basic sites for selective C2H6/C2H4 separation.
Degradation and Self‐Healing of FAPbBr3 Perovskite under Soft‐X‐Ray Irradiation
Authors: Milotti Valeria , Cacovich Stefania , Ceratti Davide Raffaele , Ory Daniel , Barichello Jessica , Matteocci Fabio , Di Carlo Aldo , Sheverdyaeva Polina M. , Schulz Philip , Moras Paolo
Published: June 2023

The extensive use of perovskites as light absorbers calls for a deeper understanding of the interaction of these materials with light. Here, the evolution of the chemical and optoelectronic properties of formamidinium lead tri‐bromide (FAPbBr3) films is tracked under the soft X‐ray beam of a high‐brilliance synchrotron source by photoemission spectroscopy and micro‐photoluminescence. Two contrasting processes are at play during the irradiation. The degradation of the material manifests with the formation of Pb0 metallic clusters, loss of gaseous Br2, decrease and shift of the photoluminescence emission. The recovery of the photoluminescence signal for prolonged beam exposure times is ascribed to self‐healing of FAPbBr3, thanks to the re‐oxidation of Pb0 and migration of FA+ and Br− ions. This scenario is validated on FAPbBr3 films treated by Ar+ ion sputtering. The degradation/self‐healing effect, which is previously reported for irradiation up to the ultraviolet regime, has the potential of extending the lifetime of X‐ray detectors based on perovskites.
Identification and structural characterization of lactose adduct impurities in isosorbide dinitrate and hydralazine hydrochloride tablets by liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry and nuclear magnetic resonance studies
Authors: Muppavarapu Venkatarao , Challa Gangu Naidu , Gande Mukteeshwar , Billa Praveen Reddy , Joshi Venkatesh Madhavacharya , Ch Thirupathi , Ponnapalli Veerabhadra Swamy , Y Srinivasa Rao
Published: June 2023

Isosorbide dinitrate and hydralazine hydrochloride tablets are approved for the treatment of heart failure, prolonged hospitalization for heart failure, and enhanced patient‐reported functional status. It has been administered orally. Isosorbide dinitrate and hydralazine hydrochloride tablets contained two additional major unknown peaks (Degradation Product 1 and Degradation Product 2) in the stability studies (25°C/60% relative humidity and 40°C/75% relative humidity). These two unknown degradation peaks formed due to the heat (thermal) and humidity stress of hydralazine hydrochloride. Liquid chromatography separated these unknown degradant peaks. Initially, liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry assessed the degradation pathways and mass of two degradants. Afterward, preparative‐liquid chromatography isolated the two major unknown degradation impurities formed under heat (thermal) and humidity stress conditions. Further, to confirm the structures, nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy evaluated these two degradants. The liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry and nuclear magnetic resonance spectral data confirmed that the two degradation impurities are hydralazine lactosone ring‐opened adduct (Degradation Product 1) and s‐triazolo [3,4‐α] phthalazine (Degradation Product 2).
Boosted Surface‐Redox Pseudocapacitance in 2D Mesoporous TiN for High‐Power Sodium‐Ion Capacitors
Authors: Huang Tingyi , Yu Jiayu , Huang Xiaojuan , Li Junbin , Wang Binhao , He Yalin , Tang Dafu , Zhang Jinyu , Peng Dong-Liang , Lan Kun , Wei Qiulong
Published: June 2023

Pseudocapacitive materials with surface‐redox reactions are capable of realizing high capacities at ultrahigh rates; however, it remains a challenge in the synthesis of active components with high surface area to boost surface‐redox sodiation but restrain side reactions. Herein, a two‐step, topochemical synthesis of 2D mesoporous TiN (2D‐meso‐TiN) with high surface area and rich mesoporosities is presented. It is demonstrated that the sodium‐ion storage mechanism of TiN anode is based on the existence of surficial titanium oxides via redox reactions between Ti4+ and Ti3+. The interconnected, highly conductive 2D‐meso‐TiN with high surface area largely increases the pseudocapacitive capacities, leading to a high capacity of 160/93 mAh g−1 at 0.1/10 A g−1, which is much higher than 2D‐TiN (120/72 mAh g−1) and commercial TiN nanoparticles (57/30 mAh g−1). The surface‐redox (de)sodiation undergoes no destruction of crystalline TiN, which enables high initial coulombic efficiency and long‐term cycles. Furthermore, a novel hybrid sodium‐ion capacitor consisting of 2D‐meso‐TiN anode and Na3V2(PO4)3 cathode is assembled without any presodiation treatments. The hybrid capacitor delivers both high energy density (94 Wh kg−1 at 64 W kg−1) and high power density (38 Wh kg−1 at 4.4 kW kg−1), as well as long cycling stability.
Rethinking databases: The fib project for a connected data repository
Authors: Fernández‐Ordóñez David , Fernández Ruiz Miguel , Tošić Nikola , Wan‐Wendner Roman , de la Fuente Albert
Published: June 2023

The need for reliable test data to verify scientific theories together with the necessity to calibrate code‐oriented expressions and their level of safety have pushed researchers to develop test databases. Such databases collect the work of multiple independent scientific initiatives compiling experimental evidences on similar test configurations but with different parameters such as geometry, size of the component tested, boundary conditions, and/or mechanical properties of the materials. Such databases, usually collected for specific purposes, have traditionally faced maintenance, and especially consistency issues. Also, they have given rise to conflicting values due to different interpretations of the same data entries in databases elaborated by different researchers. In addition, such databases are frequently designed and configured to serve for one purpose, although their data could be used in multiple manners. Recent developments regarding machine learning and artificial intelligence have opened the door to exploiting historically collected test results by data mining techniques. In an effort to improve the current situation concerning databases, the fib has launched a wide and open initiative on test data management. It consists of a common data structure, sufficiently flexible to serve for multiple purposes, hosting very different test setups, and meant to be used for cross analyses of data. This allows reusing data originally developed for one purpose to analyze other aspects, enhancing the value of current experimental work. Also, a consistent management structure is defined taking advantage of the fib network, with database editors, collectors and users, allowing for a transparent and documented peer‐review process while incorporating new test data. This paper presents the main basis grounding the test data management as well as details on the first two completed applications, referring to fiber‐reinforced concrete (material data) and to punching of slab‐column connections (structural response), showcasing the framework versatility and universality.
Cortinarius subgenus Vibratiles (Agaricales), a new myxacioid taxon of global scope
Authors: Soop Karl , Nilsen Andy R. , Orlovich David A. , Ammirati Joseph F. , Dima Bálint
Published: June 2023

A major fungal lineage of myxacioid taxa is centred around Cortinarius vibratilis. This lineage is shown by morphological and multigene molecular phylogenetic analyses of the nrDNA ITS and LSU, as well as rpb1 and rpb2 genes to form a well‐supported clade, here introduced as the new subgenus C. subg. Vibratiles consisting of four sections and various small clades. Two new myxacioid sections, C. sect. Microspermi and C. sect. Turcopedes, are also proposed.
α‐Amino Acids: An Emerging Versatile Synthon in Visible Light‐Driven Decarboxylative Transformations
Authors: Shao Tianju , Ban Xu , Jiang Zhiyong
Published: June 2023

α‐Amino acids have been widely recognized as environmental‐benign and non‐fossil carbon sources both in biological and synthetic chemistry. In recent years, with the remarkable development of visible‐light photocatalysis in organic synthesis, α‐amino acid and its derivatives have received tremendous attention as radical precursors via photocatalyzed decarboxylation, thus realizing diverse aminoalkylated transformations or constructions of novel N‐bearing heterocyclic motifs by taking advantage of N‐atoms from α‐amino acid. This review aims to provide a comprehensive update on the recent exploitation of α‐amino acids in visible light photocatalysis, with particular emphasis on the types of α‐amino acids employed and their distinct mechanisms applied wherein.
Oxidative Dehydrogenation of Alkanes through Homogeneous Base Metal Catalysis
Authors: Wen Chenxi , Li Ting , Huang Zheng , Kang Qi‐Kai
Published: June 2023

Preparing valuable olefins from cheap and abundant alkane resources has long been a challenging task in organic synthesis, which mainly suffers from harsh reaction conditions and narrow scopes. Homogeneous transition metals catalyzed dehydrogenation of alkanes has attracted much attention for its excellent catalytic activities under relatively milder conditions. Among them, base metal catalyzed oxidative alkane dehydrogenation has emerged as a viable strategy for olefin synthesis for its usage of cheap catalysts, compatibility with various functional groups, and low reaction temperature. In this review, we discuss recent development of base metal catalyzed alkane dehydrogenation under oxidative conditions and their application in constructing complex molecules.
QM/AMOEBA description of properties and dynamics of embedded molecules
Authors: Nottoli Michele , Bondanza Mattia , Mazzeo Patrizia , Cupellini Lorenzo , Curutchet Carles , Loco Daniele , Lagardère Louis , Piquemal Jean‐Philip , Mennucci Benedetta , Lipparini Filippo
Published: June 2023

We describe the development, implementation, and application of a polarizable QM/MM strategy, based on the AMOEBA polarizable force field, for calculating molecular properties and performing dynamics of molecular systems embedded in complex matrices. We show that polarizable QM/MM is a well‐understood, mature technology that can be deployed using a state‐of‐the‐art implementation that combines efficient numerical methods and linear scaling techniques. Thanks to these numerical advances and to the availability of parameters for a wide manifold of systems in the AMOEBA force field, polarizable QM/AMOEBA can be used for advanced production applications, that range from the prediction of spectroscopies to ground‐ and excited‐state multiscale ab initio molecular dynamics simulations.

This article is categorized under:

Electronic Structure Theory > Ab Initio Electronic Structure Methods

Electronic Structure Theory > Combined QM/MM Methods
Human-Centered Work Design for the Internet of Production
Authors: Baier Ralph , Brauner Philipp , Brillowski Florian , Dammers Hannah , Liehner Luca , Pütz Sebastian , Schneider Sebastian , Schollemann Alexander , Steuer-Dankert Linda , Vervier Luisa , Gries Thomas , Leicht-Scholten Carmen , Mertens Alexander , Nagel Saskia K. , Schuh Günther , Ziefle Martina , Nitsch Verena
Published: June 2023

Like all preceding transformations of the manufacturing industry, the large-scale usage of production data will reshape the role of humans within the sociotechnical production ecosystem. To ensure that this transformation creates work systems in which employees are empowered, productive, healthy, and motivated, the transformation must be guided by principles of and research on human-centered work design. Specifically, measures must be taken at all levels of work design, ranging from (1) the work tasks to (2) the working conditions to (3) the organizational level and (4) the supra-organizational level. We present selected research across all four levels that showcase the opportunities and requirements that surface when striving for human-centered work design for the Internet of Production (IoP). (1) On the work task level, we illustrate the user-centered design of human-robot collaboration (HRC) and process planning in the composite industry as well as user-centered design factors for cognitive assistance systems. (2) On the working conditions level, we present a newly developed framework for the classification of HRC workplaces. (3) Moving to the organizational level, we show how corporate data can be used to facilitate best practice sharing in production networks, and we discuss the implications of the IoP for new leadership models. Finally, (4) on the supra-organizational level, we examine overarching ethical dimensions, investigating, e.g., how the new work contexts affect our understanding of responsibility and normative values such as autonomy and privacy. Overall, these interdisciplinary research perspectives highlight the importance and necessary scope of considering the human factor in the IoP.
Empty and Real Innovation
Authors: Hallonsten Olof
Published: June 2023

Until just some decades ago, nobody spoke of innovation, and nobody crafted any innovation policies. But a lot of innovation surely happened anyway. This should prompt us to reflect: Is society’s current obsession with innovation perhaps counterproductive? There is a lot to suggest that real innovation happens to a lesser degree now than before. On basis of this realization, this chapter discusses, in turn, the consequences of empty innovation for societies, organizations, and individuals; the misunderstandings that seem to lie behind the obsession with innovation and its expressions in policy; what innovation really is; and finally, how real innovation can be promoted. Using secondary sources that analyze how innovation works and how it is best promoted, the chapter summarizes the learnings of the book overall and lays out an alternative path forward.
Low-regularity Seiberg–Witten moduli spaces on manifolds with boundary
Authors: Suwara Piotr
Published: June 2023

For a compact spin$$^{c}$$

c

manifold X with boundary $$b_1(\partial X)=0$$

b
1

(
∂
X
)

=
0

, we consider moduli spaces of solutions to the Seiberg–Witten equations in a generalized double Coulomb slice in $$W^{1,2}$$

W

1
,
2

Sobolev regularity. We prove they are Hilbert manifolds, prove denseness and “semi-infinite-dimensionality” properties of the restriction to $$\partial X$$

∂
X

, and establish a gluing theorem. To achieve these, we prove a general regularity theorem and a strong unique continuation principle for Dirac operators, and smoothness of a restriction map to configurations of higher regularity on the interior, all of which are of independent interest.
NLRP3 agonist enhances radiation-induced immune priming and promotes abscopal responses in anti-PD1 resistant model
Authors: Barsoumian Hampartsoum B. , He Kewen , Hsu Ethan , Bertolet Genevieve , Sezen Duygu , Hu Yun , Riad Thomas S. , Cortez Maria Angelica , Welsh James W.
Published: June 2023

Radiotherapy (XRT), a well-known activator of the inflammasome and immune priming, is in part capable of reversing resistance to anti-PD1 treatment. The NLRP3 inflammasome is a pattern recognition receptor which is activated by both exogenous and endogenous stimuli, leading to a downstream inflammatory response. Although NLRP3 is typically recognized for its role in exacerbating XRT-induced tissue damage, the NLRP3 inflammasome can also yield an effective antitumor response when used in proper dosing and sequencing with XRT. However, whether NLRP3 agonist boosts radiation-induced immune priming and promote abscopal responses in anti-PD1 resistant model is still unknown. Therefore, in this study, we paired intratumoral injection of an NLRP3 agonist with XRT to stimulate the immune system in both wild type (344SQ-P) and anti-PD1 resistant (344SQ-R) murine-implanted lung adenocarcinoma models. We found that the combination of XRT + NLPR3 agonist enhanced the control of implanted lung adenocarcinoma primary as well as secondary tumors in a radiological dose-dependent manner, in which 12Gyx3 fractions of stereotactic XRT was better than 5Gyx3, while 1Gyx2 did not improve the NLRP3 effect. Survival and tumor growth data also showed significant abscopal response with the triple therapy (12Gyx3 + NLRP3 agonist + α-PD1) in both 344SQ-P and 344SQ-R aggressively growing models. Multiple pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1b, IL-4, IL-12, IL-17, IFN-γ and GM-CSF) were elevated in the serum of mice treated with XRT + NLRP3 or triple therapy. The Nanostring results showed that NLRP3 agonist is capable of increasing antigen presentation, innate function, and T-cell priming. This study can be of particular importance to treat patients with immunologically-cold solid tumors whom are also refractory to prior checkpoint treatments.
The Territory of Ancient Tipasa, Algeria: Archaeological Survey, Material Culture, and Connectivity in Central Maghreb
Authors: Quevedo Alejandro , García-Sánchez Jesús , Khellaf Rafik , Bensaidani Youcef
Published: June 2023

The territory of Tipasa, an iconic UNESCO landscape that comprises the ancient city of Mauretania and its Royal Mausoleum, has never been systematically investigated. The exception may be Gsell’s archaeological atlas of Algeria, compiled more than a century ago (Gsell, 1911). Since 2021, the TIPASA Project, a Spanish-Algerian survey program, was organized to shed light on this ill-studied ancient city and its territory. The survey approaches the subject from both the “site” and “off-site” perspectives, using tools such as remote sensing, field survey, and material culture, as well as an education program for Algerian students. This research is essential to understanding the part played by Punic, Hellenistic, Mauretanian, and Roman agents in creating the territory. The research methods and conceptual framework emphasize the particularities of North African cities and the creation of African-led networks in Antiquity across the Mediterranean, particularly the connections with the Iberian Peninsula before and after the imposition of Roman administrative structures.
Analytic solutions of linear neutral and non-neutral delay differential equations using the Laplace transform method: featuring higher order poles and resonance
Authors: Sherman Michelle , Kerr Gilbert , González-Parra Gilberto
Published: June 2023

In this article, we extend the Laplace transform method to obtain analytic solutions for linear RDDEs and NDDEs which have real and complex poles of higher order. Furthermore, we present first-order linear DDEs that feature resonance phenomena. The procedure is similar to the one where all of the poles are order one, but requires one to use the appropriate modifications when using Cauchy’s residue theorem for the poles of higher order. The process for obtaining the solution relies on computing the relevant infinite sequence of poles and then determining the Laplace inverse, via the Cauchy residue theorem. For RDDEs, the poles can be obtained in terms of the Lambert W function, but for NDDEs,the complex poles, in most cases, must be computed numerically. We found that an important feature of first-order linear RDDES and NDDES with poles of higher order is that it is possible to incite the resonance phenomena, which in the counterpart ordinary differential equation cannot occur. We show that despite the presence of higher order poles or resonance phenomena, the solutions generated by the Laplace transform method for linear RDDEs and NDDEs that have higher order poles are still accurate.
Community Perceptions on the Transformation of a high-altitude Grassland Through Invasion by Leucosidea sericea at Vuvu, South Africa
Authors: Ndamane Nandipha Gloria , Kraai Manqhai , Tsvuura Zivanai , Mkhize Ntuthuko Raphael , Tjelele Tlou Julius
Published: June 2023

We assessed perceptions of Leucosidea sericea, a woody plant that is increasing in density such that it may threaten rangelands among agro-pastoralists whose livelihoods rely on livestock (56%) and crop farming (36%) in Vuvu, Eastern Cape, South Africa. Using semi-structured questionnaires, we asked 198 respondents about the spread of the species in the last few decades, and its impact on the availability of graze for livestock. Responses indicated that L. sericea started spreading in the 1950s, with marked increases in 2011–2020, particularly in the mountainous areas used for grazing as well as by rivers and village residences. Respondents suggested that livestock were the main biological agent of seed dispersal, and livestock ownership had increased dramatically in recent years, with a preference for sheep (a minimum of 120 per household). Overall, respondents indicated that L. sericea encroachment negatively affected their community.
Chemodiversity and bioactivity assessment of phlorotannins from some Phaeophyta species from the Red Sea
Authors: Ismail Mona M. , El Zokm Gehan M. , El Sikaily Amany M. , Selim Adel I. , Ismail Gehan A.
Published: June 2023

Phlorotannins are a unique and diverse category of secondary polyphenolic metabolites biosynthesized by brown seaweeds. They have revealed a huge potential for food and medicinal applications. In this study, five brown seaweed species were investigated: Polycladia myrica, Sirophysalis trinodis, Dictyota spiralis, Sargassum euryphyllum, and Turbinaria decurrens. All seaweed species contained considerable amounts of phlorotannins with P. myrica recording the highest content (as mg PGEs g−1 DW), followed by S. euryphyllum and then S. trinodis. The presence of phlorotannins was detected using UV–Vis spectroscopy analysis in the characterized range of 280 nm to 300 nm. All species exhibited highly significant antioxidant activity using four different techniques compared to ascorbic acid. For antidiabetic activity, the maximum α-amylase and α-glucosidase activity inhibition were recorded for P. myrica (68.79 ± 0.7%; 66.73 ± 0.5%), followed by T. decurrens (66.38 ± 0.6%; 61.34 ± 0.4%) and then D. spiralis (65.99 ± 0.5%; 60.58 ± 0.4%) compared to the acarbose standard drug (73.76 ± 0.6%; 68.38 ± 0.6%), which nominated these extracts as candidates for antidiabetic drugs. Moreover, the obtained results showed effective anti-inflammatory arthritis effects, with the maximum activity value of 86.02 ± 1.3% recorded for S. euryphyllum, followed by D. spiralis (86.23 ± 1.1%), and then P. myrica (85.94 ± 1.4%). On the other side, a low inhibition percentage of acetyl cholinesterase (AChE) activity was recorded for different phlorotannin extracts, indicating low potentiality as anti-alzheimer materials. Moreover, the P. myrica phlorotannins’ extract showed no toxicity on the WISH normal cell line by using the MTT assay. The same extract comprised a variety of phlorotannins, viz fucophlorethol, fuhalol, and phlorethol compounds, as revealed by UPLC-MS/MS analysis.

Graphical Abstract
1H-detected characterization of carbon–carbon networks in highly flexible protonated biomolecules using MAS NMR
Authors: Bahri Salima , Safeer Adil , Adler Agnes , Smedes Hanneke , van Ingen Hugo , Baldus Marc
Published: June 2023

In the last three decades, the scope of solid-state NMR has expanded to exploring complex biomolecules, from large protein assemblies to intact cells at atomic-level resolution. This diversity in macromolecules frequently features highly flexible components whose insoluble environment precludes the use of solution NMR to study their structure and interactions. While High-resolution Magic-Angle Spinning (HR-MAS) probes offer the capacity for gradient-based 1H-detected spectroscopy in solids, such probes are not commonly used for routine MAS NMR experiments. As a result, most exploration of the flexible regime entails either 13C-detected experiments, the use of partially perdeuterated systems, or ultra-fast MAS. Here we explore proton-detected pulse schemes probing through-bond 13C–13C networks to study mobile protein sidechains as well as polysaccharides in a broadband manner. We demonstrate the use of such schemes to study a mixture of microtubule-associated protein (MAP) tau and human microtubules (MTs), and the cell wall of the fungus Schizophyllum commune using 2D and 3D spectroscopy, to show its viability for obtaining unambiguous correlations using standard fast-spinning MAS probes at high and ultra-high magnetic fields.
Patch size and connectivity predict remnant habitat occupancy by an endangered wetland specialist, the salt marsh harvest mouse
Authors: Aylward Cody M. , Barthman-Thompson Laureen , Bean William T. , Kelt Douglas A. , Sacks Benjamin N. , Statham Mark J.
Published: June 2023

Context

The area-isolation paradigm of metapopulation theory predicts that larger and more connected patches have a higher probability of occupancy. Although it may be too simplistic for generalist terrestrial mammals, the area-isolation paradigm may be an effective tool for assessing patch-occupancy for habitat specialists.

Objectives

We tested predictions of the area-isolation paradigm for the endangered salt marsh harvest mouse (Reithrodontomys raviventris), a habitat specialist living in highly fragmented salt marsh habitat in the San Francisco Estuary (California, USA).

Methods

We surveyed for salt marsh harvest mice at 47 marsh patches throughout their range using a non-invasive genetic survey technique. We used occupancy modeling to estimate the effects of patch size, patch connectivity, matrix urbanization, and several habitat characteristics on occupancy probabilities. We evaluated occupancy at both coarse (e.g., among patches) and fine (e.g., within patches) spatial scales.

Results

Patch size, connectivity, and matrix urbanization had significant effects on patch-occupancy. Within patches, occupancy was positively related to the presence of high-tide escape vegetation. Our data also revealed the extirpation of several geographically distinct populations, consistent with expectations due to reduced patch sizes and connectivity over the past century.

Conclusions

Patterns of salt marsh harvest mouse patch-occupancy were consistent with the area-isolation paradigm. In addition, our models provide important guidelines of patch size and connectivity that can inform habitat conservation and restoration for this endangered species. Specifically, our data suggests that selecting restoration sites that are well-connected may be more beneficial than selecting larger, isolated sites.
Design of tunable notch filter based on plasmonic and InGaAsP waveguide
Authors: Abdelsamee Seham , Areed Nihal F. F. , El-Mikati Hamdi A. , Obayya S. S. A.
Published: June 2023

A highly efficient compact tunable optical notch filter is proposed and analyzed using the 2D Finite Element Method (FEM). The proposed structure consists of a slanted stub plasmonic resonator, Metal–Insulator–Metal (MIM) waveguide, and InGaAsP as a third-order non-linear optical material. By altering the pumping state of the InGaAsP, the filtered wavelengths may be easily controlled continuously over 200 nm a range. The suggested notch filter can remove four narrow bands of wavelengths, each around 50 nm wide, and a transmission of about − 17 dB. The proposed filter’s key advantages are its high transmission coefficient and fabrication simplicity with compact size. For future integrated plasmonic devices such as outdoor visible light communications and optical imaging, the proposed filter can be manufactured using an oblique angle shadow evaporation technique.
Deep learning based BER improvement for NOMA-VLC systems with perfect and imperfect successive interference cancellation
Authors: Salama Wessam M. , Aly Moustafa H. , Amer Eman S.
Published: June 2023

This paper focuses in the improvement of the BER performance of multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) systems is investigated utilizing non-orthogonal multiple access-visible light communication (NOMA-VLC). Applying multi-user downlink MIMO-NOMA-VLC system within equal gain combiner at the receiver is used with two types of modulation; On–Off Keying (OOK) and L-Pulse Position Modulation, with L = 4 and 8. The perfect and imperfect successive interference cancellation scenario is used in this system, and the scenario is considered for two and three users. Our proposed framework is divided into two stages. First, data is collected using the MATLAB software. Second, two deep learning models (DLMs); ResNet50V2 and InceptionResNetV2 which are trained and tested. Python software is then used to develop and train the DLMs. The obtained results assures the superiority of ResNet50V2 over InceptionResNetV2, in different cases and for all users. The BER performance is also studied versus α for two and three users OOK modulation single-input single-output (SISO), (2 × 2) and (3 × 2) MIMO-NOMA-VLC systems based on the two DL techniques; ResNet50V2 and InceptionResNetV2. Again, ResNet50V2 achieves better results than InceptionResNetV2. The obtained results are compared with the previously published ones, showing that the proposed system and techniques achieve better results.
Sexual and Reproductive Health Education for Youth with Intellectual Disabilities: a Mixed Methods Study of Professionals’ Practices and Needs
Authors: Colarossi Lisa , Collier Kate L. , Dean Randa , Pérez Siana , Riquelme Marlene O.
Published: June 2023

We conducted formative research to inform the creation of innovative new tools and strategies to engage professionals in communicating with youth with intellectual disabilities about sexual health. The research was guided by a multidisciplinary network of experts and an advisory board of self-advocates with intellectual disabilities and caregivers that make up Project SHINE: the Sexual Health Innovation Network for Equitable Education. A cross-sectional mixed-methods study utilized survey data from 632 disability support professionals who provide services to youth ages 16–24 with intellectual disabilities (ID). We then conducted focus groups with 36 professionals to obtain more in-depth information related to organizational support needs and suitable contexts, methods, and tools for sexuality education. Participants included licensed/credentialed direct service professionals (social workers, nurses, teachers), non-licensed direct service providers (case managers, supportive care specialists, residential care line staff), and program administrators. Quantitative and qualitative data analyses triangulated the findings across four content areas: attitudes about providing sexual health information to youth with ID, preparedness to communicate about sexuality, current communication practices, and professional needs in the field for new teaching tools and methods. We discuss how findings can be used to guide the creation and successful implementation of innovative new sexual health learning tools for youth with intellectual disabilities.
Novel externalities
Authors: Cowen Nick , Schliesser Eric
Published: June 2023

Novel externalities are social activities for which the emerging cost (or benefit) of the spillover is unknown and must be discovered. Negative novel externalities have regained international salience following the COVID-19 pandemic. Such cases frequently are invoked as evidence of the limits of liberal political economy for dealing with public emergencies. Through a re-reading of classical political economy with the modern state’s confrontation with infectious disease in mind, we defend the comparative efficacy of liberal democracy against authoritarian alternatives for coping with these social problems. Effective responses to novel externalities require producing and updating trustworthy public information and an independent scientific community to validate and interpret it. Those epistemic capacities are prevalent in liberal democratic regimes with multiple sources of political power, an independent civil society, and practices of academic freedom. Our analysis highlights the theoretical value of polycentrism and self-governance beyond their more familiar role, of increasing accountability and competition in the provision of local public goods, towards facilitating effective national policy.
An inexplicably good argument for causal finitism
Authors: Dagher Ibrahim
Published: June 2023

Causal finitism, the view that the causal history of any event must be finite, has garnered much philosophical interest recently—especially because of its applicability to the Kalām cosmological argument. The most prominent argument for causal finitism is the Grim Reaper argument, which attempts to show that, if infinite causal histories are possible, then other paradoxical states of affairs must also be possible. However, this style of argument has been criticized on the grounds of (i) relying on controversial modal principles, and (ii) providing a false diagnosis of the paradoxes involved. In this paper, I develop a new kind of Grim Reaper argument immune to these criticisms. I show that, by using insights from the literature on time travel, causal finitists should instead argue that infinite causal histories are problematically inexplicable, as they entail the possibility of unexplained foiling mechanisms. The fruits of this paper are that (i) a novel supporting argument for the Kalām is developed, and (ii) along the way of building this argument, it is shown that the literatures on time travel and causal finitism are deeply and intimately connected.
Assessing the effects of publication requirements for professorship on research performance and publishing behaviour of Ukrainian academics
Authors: Abramo Giovanni , D’Angelo Ciriaco Andrea , Hladchenko Myroslava
Published: June 2023

This article aims to explore the effects of Ukrainian policy reform, introducing Scopus and WoS publication requirements for professorship, on the publication behaviour and research performance of professors. Our analysis reveals a better scientific profile, at the time of promotion, of those who obtained professorship after the reform as compared to those who obtained it before. Also, we observe a bandwagon effect since the research performance gap between the two observed cohorts decreased after the introduction of the publication requirements. The statistical difference in differences tests revealed that in general, the incentive to produce more indexed publications worked. Nevertheless, it did not always led to higher research performance. Evidently, in several cases, the increase in research output was obtained at the expense of research impact. The effects of the reform could be far greater if combined with initiatives aimed at assessing Ukrainian professor performance regularly and extending the requirements and assessment to the impact of research.