bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Relationship between sensory processing skills and motor skills in 12‐month‐old infants
Authors: Yildiz Ramazan , Yildiz Ayse , Zorlular Rabia , Elbasan Bulent
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Identifying sensory processing problems of 12‐month‐old preterm and term children and defining their relationship with motor skills are essential for appropriate interventions and optimal sensory‐motor development. This study aimed to determine sensory processing difficulties in 12‐month‐old babies and examine their relationship with motor skills.

Methods:

This cross‐sectional study included 61 infants (28 preterm and 33 full‐term, ages 12 months). The infants' sensory processing skills were evaluated using the Test of Sensory Functions in Infants (TSFI), and their gross and fine motor skills were assessed with the Peabody Developmental Motor Scales‐2 (PDMS‐2).

Results:

Sensory processing difficulties were more common in preterm babies. Multiple linear regression models indicated a significant positive association between PDMS‐2 gross/fine motor scores and TFSI total scores, reactivity to tactile deep pressure, and ocular‐motor control in the total sample. Furthermore, there was a relationship between gross motor and adaptive motor function, and fine motor scores were found to be associated with visual‐tactile integration sensory scores.

Conclusions

Preterm babies are more likely than their full‐term peers to have sensory processing problems around the age of one, which can affect their motor skills. The results support the relationship between children's sensory and motor processing skills. Practitioners such as occupational and physical therapists should be alert to this relationship in infants with sensory processing and motor problems. Taking this relationship into consideration when planning intervention programs can be a guide for an effective intervention.
Uncovering the Potential of O‐Prenylated 3‐Aryl‐benzopyran Derivatives as Osteogenic and Cancer Cell Growth Inhibitory Agents
Authors: Gupta Mini , Gupta Kratika , Imran Ahmad Mohd. , Khanka Sonu , Sarfraz Aqib , Dixit Shivani , Konwar Rituraj , Khan Feroz , Singh Divya , Gupta Atul
Published: September 2024

Naturally, O‐prenylation of 3‐aryl‐benzopyrans enhances the biological activities of these compounds. In this study, substituted O‐prenylated 3‐aryl‐benzopyrans (21a‐c, 22a‐c, 23a‐c, 24a‐c 25a‐c, 27 and 28) were synthesized and evaluated for osteogenic and cancer cell growth inhibitory potentials using cell‐based in‐vitro models. Amongst the target compounds, 21a, 22b, 23c, and 24c showed good osteogenic activity at 1 pM concentration, whereas 26 and 27 showed osteogenic activity at 100 pM and 10 nM, respectively. Compounds 21a, 22b, and 23c showed good cancer cell growth inhibitory activity against breast cancer cells (MCF‐7 and MBA‐231). Amongst active compounds, 27 presented the best anticancer activity against MDAMB‐231 cells with selectivity towards non‐cancerous cells [IC50 3.76 μM with SI 13.3]. The in‐silico study of compounds showed their structural complementarities with the LBD of estrogen receptors and compliance with dragability parameters.
Terpestacin and Its Derivatives: Bioactivities and Syntheses
Authors: Sun Xin , Li Yuyue , Xu Huayan , Huang Shuai , Liu Yonghong , Liao Shengrong , Wang Bin
Published: September 2024

Terpestacin (1), fusaproliferin (2), and their derivatives are a class of sesterterpenes featured by a trans‐fused 5/15‐membered ring skeleton. There are 45 natural products (1, 2, 4–27, 65–83) isolated from various wild fungi (Fusarium sp., Bipolaris sorokiniana, Arthrinium sp., etc.) or from genetic mutants via biosynthetic gene clusters mining, and 37 derivatives (28–64) produced by semi‐synthetic modifications. These compounds show a diverse range of important bioactivities such as antivirus, antimicrobial, cytotoxic, phytotoxic, anti‐flammatory, and brine shrimp lethal activities. To date, two racemic and five enantioselective chemical total syntheses of 1 (including 2 and their isomers) have been developed. Over the past decade, a number of biosynthetic gene clusters or their mutants, along with their encoding enzymes responsible for producing sesterterpenes such as terpestacin and its derivatives, have also been identified. This review covers the literature from the year 1993, when 1 was firstly discovered, to May 2024, focusing on the bioactivities and syntheses of 1 and its derivatives or isomers.
Harnessing the Phytochemistry Through Pesticidal Potential of Diverse Elsholtzia Species: A Path to Sustainable Agriculture
Authors: Kabdal Tanuja , Prakash Om , Kumar Ravendra , Arya Stuti , Singh Rawat Dharmendra , Kumar Satya
Published: September 2024

This study investigates the phytochemical profiles and pesticidal activities of various Elsholtzia species, including E. ciliata, E. flava, E. fruticosa, and E. eriostachya, to discover their bioactive potential for sustainable pest management. Through comparative phytochemical analysis using GC‐MS technique, key compounds in the essential oils were identified. The major components were thymoquinone (44.97 %) in E. ciliata, shisofuran (28.66 %) in E. flava, perillene (50.88 %) in E. fruticosa, and pinocarvone (42.41 %) in E. eriostachya. Despite variability in chemical composition, all species primarily contained oxygenated monoterpenes. The bioactivity of the oils was evaluated for their nematicidal and herbicidal bioassays. E. ciliata showed the highest egg hatching inhibition and juvenile mortality of M. incognita, while E. flava exhibited the lowest activity. For herbicidal activity, E. eriostachya achieved 96.70 % seed germination inhibition, 100 % root growth inhibition, and 95.56 % shoot growth inhibition. E. flava showed the lowest inhibition in germination, root length, and shoot length at 66.70 %, 81.56 %, and 85.28 %, respectively. The findings revealed significant variations in phytochemical composition and pesticidal efficacy, emphasizing the importance of species selection for pest management. This research highlights the bioactive potential of Elsholtzia species in sustainable pest management strategies.
Catalytic Cycloaddition Reactions of Ynol and Thioynol Ethers
Authors: Teng Ming‐Yu , Xu Yin , Zhu Xin‐Qi , Zhou Bo , Ye Long‐Wu
Published: September 2024

Comprehensive Summary

Electron‐rich alkynes, such as ynol and thioynol ethers, have proven to be versatile and appealing partners in catalytic cycloaddition reactions, and thus have raised considerable attentions owing to the practical application in the modular assembly of valuable carbo‐ and heterocycles. The past decades have witnessed inspiring advances in this emerging field, and an increasing number of related discoveries have been exploited. Divided into two main sections on the basis of substrate type, in each section this comprehensive review will initially summarize their synthetic preparations and subsequently examine their reactivity in every sort of catalytic cycloaddition with emphasis on the methodology development, aimed at providing an access to this burgeoning area and encouraging further innovations in the near future.

Key Scientists

For the cycloaddition of ynol ethers, in 2004, Kozmin et al. firstly developed a silver‐catalyzed [2 + 2] cycloaddition of siloxy alkynes with electron‐poor olefins. In 2012, Hiyama et al. realized a palladium‐catalyzed formal [4 + 2] annulation of alkynyl aryl ethers with internal alkynes. In the same year, Sun et al. discovered an efficient [6 + 2] cyclization between siloxy alkynes and 2‐(oxetan‐3‐yl)benzaldehydes by applying HNTf2 as catalyst. In 2017, Wender et al. first utilized vinylcyclopropanes (VCPs) as coupling partners in the [5 + 2] annulation of ynol ethers. In 2018 and 2020, Ye et al. reported zinc‐catalyzed formal [3 + 2] and [4 + 3] cycloaddition, respectively. For the cycloaddition of thioynol ethers, in 2004, Hilt et al. realized a [4 + 2] cycloaddition by employing the alkynyl sulfides and acyclic 1,3‐dienes. In 2006, a ruthenium‐catalyzed [2 + 2] cycloaddition of thioynol ethers with bicyclic alkenes was accomplished by Tam. In 2014, Sun et al. reported an elegant iridium‐catalyzed click reaction of thioalkynes with azides.
Differences between phytophagous and predatory species in Pentatomidae based on the mitochondrial genome
Authors: Ding Xiaofei , Ge Siyuan , Chen Jing , Qi Long , Wei Jiufeng , Zhang Hufang , Hao Chi , Zhao Qing
Published: September 2024

Pentatomidae includes many species of significant economic value as plant pests and biological control agents. The feeding habits of Pentatomidae are closely related to their energy metabolism and ecological adaptations. In this study, we sequenced the mitochondrial genomes of 12 Asopinae species using the next‐generation sequencing to explore the effect of dietary changes on mitochondrial genome evolution. Notably, all sequences were double‐stranded circular DNA molecules containing 37 genes and one control region. We then compared and analyzed the mitochondrial genome characteristics of phytophagous and predatory bugs. Notably, no significant difference was observed in the length of the mitochondrial genomes between the predatory and phytophagous bugs. However, the AT content was higher in the mitochondrial genomes of phytophagous bugs than that of predatory bugs. Moreover, phytophagous bugs prefer codon usage patterns ending in A/T compared with predatory bugs. The evolution rate of predatory bugs was lower than that of phytophagous bugs. The phylogenetic relationships across phytophagous bugs' lineages were largely consistent at depth nodes based on different datasets and tree‐reconstructing methods, and strongly supported the monophyly of predatory bugs. Additionally, the estimated divergence times indicated that Pentatomidae explosively radiated in the Early Cretaceous. Subsequently, the subfamily Asopinae and the genus Menida diverged in the Late Cretaceous. Our research results provide data supporting for the evolutionary patterns and classification of Pentatomidae.
A non‐invasive measure of bone growth in mammals: Validating urinary CTX‐I as a bone resorption marker through long‐bone growth velocity in bonobos
Authors: Behringer Verena , Sonnweber Ruth , Hohmann Gottfried , Stevens Jeroen M. G. , Verspeek Jonas , Kivell Tracy L.
Published: September 2024

Assessing bone growth trajectories in mammals is crucial for understanding life history dynamics, but the quantification of bone growth in natural settings can be challenging. Bone resorption markers that can be measured in urine, such as C‐telopeptide of type I collagen (CTX‐I), offer a non‐invasive solution to assess bone growth. Although measurement of urinary CTX‐I levels has been applied extensively in human studies, its use in other species is so far limited to a few clinical studies. To validate urinary CTX‐I as a bone resorption marker under less controlled conditions, we investigated within‐individual day‐to‐day variation, diurnal patterns, and sex and age‐specific variation in zoo‐housed bonobos (Pan paniscus). We then also correlated urinary CTX‐I levels with forearm growth velocity measures. We found a day‐to‐day variability in urinary CTX‐I levels of around 25%, comparable to human variation. Diurnally, CTX‐I levels decreased, aligning with observations in humans and other species. Both sexes showed an age‐related decline in urinary CTX‐I levels, with a steady decrease after the age of 10 years. Additionally, we found a positive correlation between forearm growth velocity and urinary CTX‐I levels across age in female, but not in male, bonobos. Our results demonstrate that urinary CTX‐I levels are a meaningful measure of bone growth and highlight its potential to examine bone growth trajectories also in wild populations to investigate life history dynamics.
Socio‐economic inequalities and heart failure morbidity and mortality: A systematic review and data synthesis
Authors: Shakoor Abdul , van Maarschalkerwaart Willemijn A. , Schaap Jeroen , de Boer Rudolf A. , van Mieghem Nicolas M. , Boersma Eric H. , van Heerebeek Loek , Brugts Jasper J. , van der Boon Robert M.A.
Published: September 2024

Socio‐economic status (SES) has been associated with incident and prevalent heart failure (HF), as well as its morbidity and mortality. However, the precise nature of the relationship between SES and HF remains unclear due to inconsistent data. This study aims to provide a comprehensive assessment and data synthesis of the relationship between SES and HF morbidity and mortality. We performed a systematic search and data synthesis using six databases following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses Guidelines. The included studies comprised observational studies that reported on HF incidence and prevalence, HF hospitalizations, worsening HF (WHF) and all‐cause mortality, as well as treatment options (medical, device and advanced HF therapies). SES was measured on both individual and area levels, encompassing single (e.g., income, education, employment, social risk score, living conditions and housing characteristics) and composite indicators. Among the 4124 studies screened, 79 were included, with an additional 5 identified through cross‐referencing. In the majority of studies, a low SES was associated with an increased HF incidence (72%) and prevalence (75%). For mortality, we demonstrated that low SES was associated with increased mortality in 45% of the studies, with 18% of the studies showing mixed results (depending on the indicator, gender or follow‐up) and 38% showing non‐significant results. Similar patterns were observed for the association between SES, WHF, medical therapy prescriptions and the utilization of devices and advanced HF therapies. There was no clear pattern in the used SES indicators and HF outcomes. This systematic review, using contemporary data, shows that while socio‐economic disparity may influence HF incidence, management and subsequent adverse events, these associations are not uniformly predictive. Our review highlights that the impact of SES varies depending on the specific indicators used, reflecting the complexity of its influence on health disparities. Assessment and recognition of SES as an important risk factor can assist clinicians in early detection and customizing HF treatment, while also aiding policymakers in optimizing resource allocation.
Translating the 2021 ESC heart failure guideline recommendations in daily practice: Results from a heart failure survey. A scientific statement of the ESC Council for Cardiology Practice and the Heart Failure Association of the ESC
Authors: Christodorescu Ruxandra , Geavlete Oliviana , Ferrini Marc , Kümler Thomas , Toutoutzas Konstantinos , Bayes‐Genis Antoni , Seferovic Petar , Metra Marco , Chioncel Ovidiu , Rosano Giuseppe M.C. , Savarese Gianluigi
Published: September 2024

Aims

Real‐world data show that guidelines are insufficiently implemented, and particularly guideline‐directed medical therapies (GDMT) are underused in patients with heart failure and reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) in clinical practice. The Council for Cardiology Practice and the Heart Failure Association of the European Society of Cardiology (ESC) developed a survey aiming to (i) evaluate the perspectives of the cardiology community on the 2021 ESC heart failure (HF) guidelines, (ii) pinpoint disparities in disease management, and (iii) propose strategies to enhance adherence to HF guidelines.

Methods and results

A 22‐question survey regarding the diagnosis and treatment of HFrEF was delivered between March and June 2022. Of 457 physicians, 54% were general cardiologists, 19.4% were HF specialists, 18.9% other cardiac specialists, and 7.7% non‐cardiac specialists. For diagnosis, 52.1% employed echocardiography and natriuretic peptides (NPs), 33.2% primarily used echocardiography, and 14.7% predominantly relied on NPs. The first drug class initiated in HFrEF was angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitors/angiotensin receptor–neprilysin inhibitor (ACEi/ARNi) (91.2%), beta‐blockers (BB) (73.8%), mineralocorticoid receptor antagonists (MRAs) (53.4%), and sodium–glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors (48.1%). The combination ACEi/ARNi + MRA+ BB was preferred by 39.3% of physicians, ACEi/ARNi + SGLT2 inhibitors + BB by 33.3%, and ACEi/ARNi + BB by 22.2%. The time required to initiate and optimize GDMT was estimated to be <1 month by 8.3%, 1–3 months by 52%, 3–6 months by 31.8%, and >6 months by 7.9%. Compared to general cardiologists, HF specialists/academic cardiologists reported lower estimated time‐to‐initiation, and more commonly preferred a parallel initiation of GDMT rather than a sequential approach.

Conclusion

Participants generally followed diagnostic and treatment guidelines, but variations in HFrEF management across care settings or HF specialties were noted. The survey may raise awareness and promote standardized HF care.
A Computational Study on Utilizing Phase Change Material With a Condenser to Improve air Conditioning System Performance
Authors: Sao Arun Kumar , Arora Arun , Sahu Mukesh Kumar
Published: September 2024

The efficacy of employing multiple cylindrical phase change materials (PCM) to enhance the performance of an air conditioning (AC) unit is examined in this study. The objective of the present study is to examine the effects of combining an AC unit with a cylindrical PCM container configuration on the PCM discharge process and the performance of the AC system. The procedure involves the connection of a heat exchanger with a cold energy storage PCM to the condenser of the AC. During the daytime, the warm surrounding air is cooled and then transmitted to the AC unit's condenser. Four different turbulence models, that is, the SST , standard , Realizable and RNG have been considered for the present computational study. The investigation has been performed for different air flow rates, that is, 33.6, 42, and 49  for a constant inlet air temperature of 308.15 K. The present outcomes indicate that as the flow rate rises, the air temperature inside the domain increases and the solid PCM starts melting. It is noted that complete discharging time for multi‐cylindrical PCM reduces as the air flow rate rises which are around 13.36, 11.03, and 9.94 h for airflow rates of 33.6, 42, and 49 , respectively. The maximum achieved increase in the COP is around 94.49%, 88.68%, and 87.57% at airflow rates of 33.6, 42, and 49 L/s, respectively, for the multi‐cylindrical PCM throughout the summer. It is found that for the same temperature, as the airflow rate rises, the consumed power saving rises.
A New Ant‐Friendly Aiouea (Lauraceae) From the Brazilian Atlantic Rainforest
Authors: Brotto Marcelo Leandro , de Moraes Pedro Luís Rodrigues
Published: September 2024

Aiouea is a genus of Lauraceae restricted to the New World with about 75 accepted species. In Brazil, there are about 32 species, 21 endemic to the country. Recent field work in southeastern Brazil, as well as a comprehensive study of herbarium collections, revealed a new species that we describe here as Aiouea myrmecophila. It is endemic to the Atlantic rainforest of Espírito Santo state and occurs between 800 and 1120 m along the Mantiqueira Mountain range. It is categorized as Endangered (EN) according to IUCN criteria. Its putative relationships with other species in the genus are discussed.
Long‐term trends in mountain groundwater levels across Canada and the United States
Authors: Samways Jenacy , Salehi Sana , McKenzie Jeffrey M. , Somers Lauren D.
Published: September 2024

Mountains have a critical role in freshwater supply for downstream populations. As the climate changes, groundwater stored in mountains may help buffer the impacts to declining water resources caused by decreased snowpack and glacier recession. However, given the scarcity of groundwater observation wells in mountain regions, it remains unclear how mountain groundwater is being impacted by climate change across ecoregions. This study quantifies temporal trends in mountain groundwater levels and explores how various climatic, physiographic and anthropogenic factors affect these trends. We compiled data from 171 public groundwater observation wells within mountain regions across Canada and the United States, for which at least 20 years of monthly data is available. The Mann‐Kendall test for monotonic trend revealed that 54% of these wells have statistically significant temporal trends (p < 0.05) over the period of record, of which 69% were negative and therefore indicating overall declining groundwater storage. Wells in the western mountain ranges showed stronger trends (both positive and negative) than the eastern mountain ranges, and higher elevation wells showed fewer negative trends than the low elevation (<400 m asl) wells (p < 0.05). Correlation, Kruskal‐Wallis tests, stepwise multiple linear regression and random forest regression were used to identify factors controlling groundwater trends. Statistical analysis revealed that lower‐elevation mountain regions with higher average annual temperatures and lower average annual precipitation have the greatest declines in groundwater storage under climate change. Trends in temperature and precipitation, and ecoregion were also important predictors on groundwater level trends, highlighting geographic differences in how mountain wells are responding to climate change. Furthermore, sedimentary bedrock aquifers showed markedly more negative trends than crystalline bedrock aquifers. The findings demonstrate that the impact of climate change on mountain water resources extends to the subsurface, with important implications for global water resources.
Exploring perceptions of genetic counseling student‐run free clinics as an innovative service delivery model to increase access to genetic counseling services
Authors: Morgan Shayna , Lajonchere Clara , Prelip Michael , Palmer Christina G. S.
Published: September 2024

Underrepresented groups lack access to genetics services, heightening health disparities among those who benefit from advancements in precision medicine. An innovative approach to addressing this gap in care and increasing health equity in the context of genetic counseling is student‐run free clinics (SRFCs). While only one recently established SRFC for genetic counseling is reported in the literature, SRFCs have a long‐standing presence in other health professional schools, such as nursing, pharmacy and physical therapy, and research supports the benefits for patients and students. This qualitative study aims to explore the perspectives of certified genetic counselors (CGCs) and genetic counseling  students (GC students) regarding SRFCs as an innovative service delivery model to increase access to genetic counseling services. Semi‐structured Zoom interviews were conducted with 10 CGCs and 10 GC students across the United States. Participants were asked open‐ended questions about how SRFCs could meet needs of the field, potential challenges in creating and maintaining these clinics, and anticipated outcomes. Through abductive thematic analysis of interview transcripts, three main themes were identified: (1) SRFCs can be mutually beneficial as alignment with profession goals potentially leads to positive outcomes for patients and students; (2) student scope of duties will vary depending on student ability corresponding with their training timeline and level of required supervision; and (3) successful SRFC implementation and sustainability will require thoughtful planning regarding collaboration, infrastructure support, clinic operations, visibility, and protections for vulnerable groups. Participants recognized SRFCs' potential to reduce health disparities by expanding access to genetic counseling for uninsured and underinsured populations. Implementing SRFCs could enhance the quality of GC student training, providing opportunities to apply skills and gain experience working with diverse patient populations. A key subtheme was the need to foster support from the CGC community in transitioning from a traditional supervision model. This research provides a baseline framework from which to further develop and implement SRFCs for genetic counseling.
Facile Synthesis of Aptamer‐Functionalized Polydopamine‐Coated Magnetic Graphene Oxide Nanocomposites for Highly Efficient Purification of His‐Tagged Proteins
Authors: Qin Qian , Liu Xiaolong , Wang Xun , Zhou Lina , Wan Huihui , Yin Qingxin , Chen Di
Published: September 2024

Recombinant proteins hold significant importance in numerous disciplines. As the demand for expressing and purifying these proteins grows, the scientific community is in dire need of a simple yet versatile methodology that can efficiently purify these proteins. Aptamers as synthetic nucleic acid–based ligands with high affinity have shown promise in this regard, as they can capture targets through molecular recognition. In this study, novel aptamer‐functionalized polydopamine‐coated magnetic graphene oxide nanocomposites were facilely prepared, achieving an impressive average aptamer coverage density (45 nmol/mg). These nanocomposites exhibited a uniform structure and robust magnetic responsiveness. The findings indicated that they possess several advantages, such as rapid adsorption, substantial capacity (171.4 mg/g), and excellent reusability. Notably, due to the inherent properties of nucleic acids, the immobilized aptamer‐magnetic beads can be utilized repeatedly with high purification efficiency. Finally, the nanocomposites were further employed to purify His‐tagged proteins from actual samples. Remarkably, they were able to selectively and efficiently isolate His‐tagged retinoid X receptor alpha protein from complex Escherichia coli lysate. The purified His‐tagged retinoid X receptor alpha protein was analyzed using matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry. This confirmed the efficacy of developed nanocomposites, reinforcing their vast potential for purification of His‐tagged recombinant proteins.
Precipitation and Soil Nitrogen as Key Drivers of Species and Phylogenetic Diversity Across Growth Forms in Picea purpurea Forests of the Eastern Qinghai–Tibet Plateau
Authors: Qi Rui , Cao Jiahao , Li Bo , Liu Ting , Gao Benqiang , Wang Siqing , Ren Zhengwei , Chen Ning , Hu Xiaowen
Published: September 2024

Picea purpurea forests are a fundamental part of the coniferous forests of the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau. These forests support an extremely rich diversity of organisms while providing crucial ecological functions. Despite their importance, the species and phylogenetic diversity (PD) of these forests remain understudied. The extent to which different plant growth forms in the forest are influenced by the environment varies according to differences in the evolutionary history and characteristics of these taxa. Here, we investigate the variations in all, woody, and herbaceous plant species diversity (SD) and PD in the eastern Qinghai–Tibet Plateau's Picea purpurea forests, along with the associated environmental factors influencing these patterns. Our results show that both SD and PD exhibit similar patterns across all, woody, and herbaceous plants. Notably, mean annual precipitation, total nitrogen, and altitude were identified as the primary factors accounting for the majority of variance in SD and PD within plant communities. Specifically, we found positive correlations between SD and PD with soil total nitrogen content, while negative correlations were observed with mean annual precipitation and altitude. Furthermore, we find that the influence of environmental variables on all plants was found to be more pronounced compared to woody and especially herbaceous plants in terms of both SD and PD. Environmental factors had a direct effect on SD and PD in all woody and herbaceous plants. However, the strength of these effects varied. Importantly, our results indicate that environmental factors influence SD independently of PD. Our findings suggest that precipitation and total soil nitrogen were the most influential environmental factors affecting plant diversity across different growth forms in Picea purpurea communities. However, inferring SD from PD remains a challenging task. These findings of our study will provide guidance for forest biodiversity conservation and sustainable forest management in the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau.
Untangling the mobility dynamics in a patchy environment: An SEIR epidemic model with vertical transmission
Authors: Bajiya Vijay Pal , Mandal Partha Sarathi , Tripathi Jai Prakash
Published: September 2024

Congenital Rubella, AIDS, and other human diseases may pass from mother to fetus through the placenta. On the other side, insects and plants often transmit vertically by their eggs/seeds. Here, we study an SEIR epidemic model with vertical transmission in a multi‐patch context to explore the spread of disease in a population divided into
distinct regions. The local and global stability of disease‐free equilibrium for the n‐patch model system has been determined in terms of the basic reproduction number
. Moreover, we discuss the existence and stability of endemic equilibrium for different cases in two symmetric regions. Our findings indicate that when
is less than one, the disease‐free equilibrium is globally asymptotically stable, whereas when
is greater than one, it is unstable. As a result, for
, the model system has an unique endemic equilibrium that is always locally asymptotically stable. The dynamics of the proposed model system depending on the distribution of infected individuals across various regions have been studied. The findings suggest that the movements from high disease risk regions to low disease risks may increase the number of the infected population in the community. The value of
could be enhanced by increasing the values of any vertical transmission parameter. However, the changes in the values of
are relatively minor. Our findings also imply that while migrations of all individuals across symmetric regions do not leave any impact on the equilibrium state of the infected population, they do affect the trajectory of the solution to reach a steady‐state. The flow of people between the two symmetrical regions could not alter the endemicity.
Analysis of photothermal heating of microhole bowtie antennas on gold metal films
Authors: Andres Aguilera Ramos J. , Ventura Brhayllan M. , Javier Gonzalez Fco. , Peale Robert E. , Khondaker Saiful I. , González Gabriel
Published: September 2024

In this work, we present a numerical and experimental study of the photothermal heating of microholes array (MHA) bowtie antennas on gold metal films. The article first shows how MHAs in gold metal films can absorb more heat depending on the geometry or placement of the MHA in each gold metal films. We show numerically and experimentally that the photothermal heating exhibits a maximum when the MHAs are patterned in a bowtie‐like geometry. Numerical studies were carried out by using COMSOL multiphysics and experimental results were obtained using thermal imaging microscopy for several different MHAs geometries, respectively. Our results showed a good agreement between experimental data and the numerical simulations, validating that MHAs bowtie antennas on gold metal films heat significantly more and make them ideal for use in photothermal applications.
No thanks: How an ideology of sharing, not reciprocating, ensures abundance in the forests of south‐eastern Cameroon
Authors: Hoyte Simon , Mangombe Felix
Published: September 2024

Reciprocity and relationality are themes which frequently emerge with respect to human–nature associations in Indigenous groups around the world. But many hunter‐gatherers have been shown to reject systems of reciprocity, instead favouring unconditional sharing both between each other and their environment through egalitarian social structures. Investigations of human–nature reciprocity in Central African hunter‐gatherers has been neglected. In this article, we investigate how Baka‐forest relationships intersect with concepts of reciprocity and what the implications are for forest managers.

The work is the result of a collaboration between local knowledge holders and an anthropologist who carried out extensive ethnographic fieldwork in a Baka village in south‐eastern Cameroon.

Through the examples of three phenomena—origin stories, human–animal shapeshifting, and forest and ancestral spirits—we show that the Baka hold a complex and deeply rooted relational connection with the forest, whereby the two are closely tied.

The common notion of direct human–nature reciprocity whereby ‘giving back’ or ‘giving thanks’ that appears in such a diversity of contexts is not present in the case of the Baka. Rather, the focus is on celebrating the abundance of the forest experienced, expressed through sharing properly with others. There is no expectation that this will lead to getting something in return, but instead is known as the ultimate way to achieve joy. As the Baka consider themselves as part of the forest, ensuring their own well‐being is ensuring the well‐being of the forest, an ideology dependent on close relational ties.

Extractive industries and mainstream conservation practices in south‐eastern Cameroon are often based on inappropriate approaches which may cause harm to forest communities and jeopardise the state of the forest in the long term. The social‐ecological philosophy we describe, which insists on caring for forest people as the primary means for caring for the forest, provides guidance for forest managers in the tropics and more widely in how to secure a sustainable future for both forests and people.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Flexible and wearable multilayer structure fiber sensor for motion and human physiological signal monitoring
Authors: Wu Di , Weng Ling , Zhang Xiaorui , Guan Lizhu , Wu Zijian
Published: September 2024

The development of flexible piezoresistive sensors has increasingly attracted widespread attention due to their various potential applications in wearable devices, human–machine interfaces, and health monitoring systems. Developing high‐performance sensors that can accurately monitor movement and human health monitoring is very necessary. This study uses silver nanoparticles, MXene, and polypyrrole to prepare conductive fabrics based on various fabrics through layer‐by‐layer encapsulation. Finally, conductive fabrics with different layers were encapsulated to prepare a multilayer fiber sensor. Next, the series piezoresistive performance of sensors made of different fabric materials and sensors with different layers were tested. The experimental results show that the sensor prepared has the best performance when the selected fabric material is mulberry silk and the number of layers of the fabric is five. After testing, the sensitivity of the sensor is 4.9029 at low strain and 0.7901 at high strain. Moreover, it exhibits good stability during 1600 compression‐release cycles and temperatures range from −20 to 60°C. The designed sensor performs well in motion and human physiological signal monitoring. This study provides new ideas and references for the design and research of multilayer fiber sensors.
Investigation of bioactive components and metabolic pathways of Zhen‐wu‐tang in rat plasma and renal tissue by UPLC‐Q‐TOF/MS
Authors: Yuan Shengliang , Chen Junqi , Cao Yiwen , Zhao Huan , Lin Shuyin , Xiong Jingli , Xian Jiayue , Zhao Minglan , Zhou Yuan , Zhou Jiuyao
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Zhen‐wu‐tang (ZWT) is a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) formula for the treatment of several kidney diseases. However, due to the complexity of the TCM formula, there is a lack of accurate knowledge of the chemical constituents of ZWT and its bioactive components, as well as in vivo metabolic pathway studies.

Objectives

The chemical composition of ZWT and its bioactive components along with the metabolic pathways were investigated by a combination of chemical profiling and serum pharmacochemistry.

Methods

High‐resolution ultra‐performance liquid chromatography‐quadrupole time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry was used to identify the chemical components of ZWT and its bioactive components and metabolites in vivo.

Results

As a result, a total of 110 chemical components were identified from ZWT solution, mainly amino acids, alkaloids, gingerols, monoterpene glycosides and terpenoids, and so on. In addition, 24 prototype components and 36 metabolites were detected in rat plasma. Meanwhile, 8 prototype components were detected in rat kidney tissue but no metabolites. Interestingly, 4 of the 28 bioactive components were detected in both plasma and renal tissue, which were atractylenolide III, trimethoxyaconitane, methyl gallate, and paeoniflorin. The metabolic pathways mainly involved Phases I and/or II metabolic reactions such as hydrolysis, oxidation, reduction and hydration, methylation/demethylation, sulphation, glucuronidation, acetylation, and glutathione conjugation.

Conclusion

Overall, the present study has comprehensively elucidated the chemical composition of ZWT and its potential bioactive components and metabolites, which provides a basis for the basic study of its pharmacodynamic substances and a reference for the study of the bioactive components of TCM formulae.
Synthesis and properties of biomass‐based polymethacrylate comprising chitin‐derived 2‐acetamide‐2‐deoxyisosorbide as a repeat unit
Authors: Koyama Yasuhito , Sagawa Takuya , Kohno Kazufumi , Sato Kento , Kobayashi Hirokazu , Fukuoka Atsushi
Published: September 2024

Synthesis and applications of biobased polymers have been extensively studied in order to reduce the use of petroleum‐based polymers and likewise environmental load. Several biobased polymers have been produced on a commercial large scale to date. However, the lineup of biobased high‐performance polymers with transparency and high glass transition temperature is inadequate and their development is a critical issue. In this article, we design a new biobased polymethacrylate comprising rigid cis‐fused bicyclic 2‐acetamide‐2‐deoxyisosorbide (ADI) as a repeat unit. We have recently invented catalytic transformation systems from chitin as a marine biomass to ADI as a new nitrogen‐containing platform chemical. The ADI‐based polymethacrylate is synthesized via free radical polymerization of the methacrylic acid ester of ADI initiated by (NH4)2S2O8 and N,N,N′,N′‐tetramethylethylenediamine in dimethylsulfoxide–H2O mixed solvent. The molecular weight and its dispersity are estimated by size exclusion chromatography on the basis of polymethylmethacrylate standards. UV–visible spectroscopy demonstrates the high transparency of the polymer in the visible wavelength region. Differential scanning calorimetry analysis of the polymer clarifies the remarkably high glass transition temperature, compared with that of polymethylmethacrylate. The thermal decomposition temperature of the polymer is also evaluated by thermogravimetric analysis. On the basis of the favorable properties of the ADI‐based polymer, the present study proposes it as a nitrogen‐containing biobased polymer useful for real‐world applications. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Role of inpatient rehabilitation facility functional measures to predict community discharge after stroke
Authors: Mangone Elizabeth , Shahriary Eashan , Bosch Pamela
Published: September 2024

Background

This study investigated the association between stroke severity, functional status measured by the Inpatient Rehabilitation Facility‐Patient Assessment Instrument (IRF‐PAI), and community discharge from IRF.

Objectives

Aim one examined the association between National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) scores measured during the acute care stay and IRF admission functional status, measured by the admission IRF‐PAI self‐care and mobility functional measures, to deduce if functional measures can serve as a proxy for stroke severity. Aim two investigated the ability of the NIHSS and IRF‐PAI admission functional measures to predict community discharge from IRF after stroke.

Design

Retrospective cohort study using electronic health records and Uniform Data System. Medical Record file data from January 1, 2018, to December 30, 2019.

Setting

Academic hospital‐based IRF.

Participants

Five hundred forty‐four patients transferred from acute care hospital to IRF after an ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke. Exclusion criteria included a transient ischemic attack, discharge against medical advice, death during IRF stay, or readmission to acute care within 48 hours of IRF admission.

Interventions

Not applicable.

Main Outcome Measures

Admission IRF‐PAI self‐care and mobility scores and discharge status from IRF.

Results

Of the 544 patients, 76.7% had community discharge. NIHSS scores were significantly associated with IRF‐PAI admission self‐care scores across each NIHSS stroke category. There was no statistically significant association between NIHSS and IRF‐PAI admission mobility score. IRF admission self‐care and mobility scores were each statistically significant predictors of community discharge (odds ratio [OR] = 1.10, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.03–1.17; OR = 1.10, CI: 1.03–1.18, respectively). NIHSS scores were not a statistically significant predictor of community discharge (OR = 0.70, CI: 0.47–1.04) from IRF.

Conclusions

IRF‐PAI self‐care functional measure is associated with the NIHSS and can serve as a proxy for stroke severity. IRF‐PAI self‐care and mobility measures each predict community discharge.
Exploring rural futures through spatial‐temporal migration balance changes in a North‐Caucasian rural basin
Authors: Burgos Ana L. , Morozova Anastasia , Ivolga Anna , Cuevas‐Garcia Gabriela
Published: September 2024

A better understanding of spatial‐temporal demographic changes in rural regions can contribute to envision potential rural futures and improve regional planning. This research aimed to analyse the migration balance and its spatial‐temporal changes in a rural basin in the Russian Federation's North Caucasus District. The basin was divided into water functional zones to examine the environmental conditions and relate them to possible future anthropogenic pressures and threats to population well‐being. Two migration balance indicators (on total population and working‐age sector) were calculated in settlements to classify them as attractors, expellers or stable population entities in two census data (2014 and 2020). The spatial‐temporal changes were assessed by testing two hypotheses: one related to population concentration and rural depopulation trends; the other focused on working‐age migration and workforce availability. Moreover, a foresight tool employed migration balance indicators in 2020 to explore population trends and possible trajectories. Findings revealed that in this rural basin, a small number of settlements served as attractors in the upper functional zone where two urban centres are found, potentially intensifying soil erosion and pollution. In the middle and lower functional zones, most rural and small urban settlements showed unfavored migration balances, leading to population and workforce decline. Negative environmental factors like declining water quality and increased wind erosion could worsen this trend. The migration challenges by functional zones highlight the growing regional disparities. The combination of spatial demography with the basin approach provided improved information to foster collaboration in a shared basin and effectively address undesirable rural outcomes at regional level.
Simultaneous and widespread: Colombia's fertility transition
Authors: Jaramillo‐Echeverri Juliana
Published: September 2024

Colombia experienced one of the fastest declines in fertility in the world: children per woman fell from 7 in 1960 to 3 in 1985. Despite the stark inequalities of the country, the regional character of the decline has been neglected in previous research. This study examines the rapid decline in fertility rates in the country, focusing on regional patterns. Using complete census registers from 1973 to 1993, it provides a detailed empirical perspective on the fertility transition. By analysing spatial patterns with Local Indicators of Spatial Association (LISA), the study identifies geographical clusters and explores the association between geography and fertility before and during the fertility transition. Additionally, new estimations of fertility rates from 1958 to 1990 are presented at the subnational level. The findings indicate that before the fertility transition, fertility patterns were influenced by historical legacies and geographical endowments. However, after 1964, fertility began to decline simultaneously across all regions, regardless of their historical fertility levels. While regional convergence in fertility rates was not achieved by 1983, the total fertility rate halved in most regions within just 25 years. Despite regional disparities, the fertility decline in the country was not only fast but also widespread. This simultaneous decline suggests that socioeconomic improvements alone do not always explain demographic processes.
Enterprise digital transformation and sustainable development performance: The asymmetric roles of top management team faultlines
Authors: Huang Hai , Hao Shengbin
Published: September 2024

Digital transformation (DT) is widely recognized as an essential driver for achieving the sustainable development goals (SDGs). However, empirical evidence regarding the effect of DT on sustainable development performance (SDP) is mixed, and the boundary conditions merit further investigation. Drawing upon organizational information processing theory, this research examines the influence of DT on SDP, specifically focusing on economic sustainability and environmental and social (E&S) sustainability. We also delve deep into the moderating role of top management team (TMT) faultlines (relationship‐related faultlines and task‐related faultlines). This research comprises an analysis of data collected from Chinese manufacturing firms spanning the period 2012–2021. The empirical results reveal that DT can positively affect E&S sustainability but negatively impact economic sustainability. TMT faultlines play a dual role in this association, with TMT relationship‐related faultlines exacerbating the negative effects of DT on economic sustainability, and TMT task‐related faultlines enhancing the positive impacts of DT on E&S sustainability, as well as mitigating the digitalization paradox. In addition, our results do not support the notion that TMT relationship‐related faultlines moderate the relationship between DT and E&S sustainability. This research contributes to the digitalization paradox and faultline literature by highlighting the distinct moderation mechanisms of TMT faultlines. These findings provide insights for managers in navigating the TMT subgroup dynamics and better supporting the success of digital sustainability transformation.