bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biological activity and molecular docking studies of some N‐phenylsulfonamides against cholinesterases and carbonic anhydrase isoenzymes
Authors: Başaran Eyüp , Çakmak Reşit , Şentürk Murat , Taskin‐Tok Tugba
Published: July 2022

In this research, a series of N‐phenylsulfonamide derivatives (1‐12) were designed, synthesized, and investigated for their inhibitory potencies against carbonic anhydrase isoenzymes I, II, and IX (hCA I, hCA II, and hCA IX) and cholinesterases (ChE), namely, acetylcholinesterase and butyrylcholinesterase. These compounds, whose inhibition potentials were evaluated for the first time, were characterized by spectroscopic techniques (1H‐ and 13C‐NMR and FT‐IR). CA isoenzyme inhibitors are significant therapeutic targets, especially owing to their preventive/activation potential in the therapy processes of some diseases such as cancer, osteoporosis, and glaucoma. On the other hand, Cholinesterase inhibitors are valuable molecules with biological importance that can be employed in the therapy process of Alzheimer's patients. The results showed that the tested molecules had enzyme inhibition activities ranging from 9.7 to 93.7 nM against these five metabolic enzymes. Among the tested molecules, the methoxy and the hydroxyl group‐containing compounds 10, 11, and 12 exhibited more enzyme inhibition activities when compared to standard compounds acetazolamide, sulfapyridine, and sulfadiazine for CA isoenzymes and neostigmine for ChE, respectively. Of these three molecules, compound 12, which had a hydroxyl group in the para position in the aromatic ring, was determined to be the most active molecule against all enzymes. In silico work, molecular docking has also shown similar results and is consistent with the experimental data in the study. As a result, we can say that some of the tested molecules might be used as promising inhibitor candidates for further studies on this topic.
Analytical study of MgZnO/ZnO heterostructure field effect transistor for power switching
Authors: Kumar Pawan , Chaudhary Sumit , Khan Md Arif , Mukherjee Shaibal
Published: July 2022

We investigate the power switching mechanism to evaluate the power loss (PD) and efficiency (ɳ) in MgZnO/ZnO (MZO)‐based power heterostructure field effect transistor (HFET), and physical parameters responsible for PD in molecular beam epitaxy (MBE) and dual ion beam sputtering (DIBS) grown MZO HEFT and compare the performance with the group III‐nitride HFETs. This work extensively probes all physical parameters such as two‐dimensional electron gas (2DEG) density, mobility, switching frequency, and device dimension to study their impact on power switching in MZO HFET. Results suggest that the MBE and DIBS grown MZO HFET with the gate width (WG) of ~205 and ~280 mm at drain current coefficient (k) of 11 and 15, respectively, will achieve 99.96% and 99.95% of ɳ and 9.03 and 12.53 W of PD, respectively. Moreover, WG value for DIBS‐grown MZO HFET is observed to further reduce in the range of 112–168 mm by using a Y2O3 spacer layer leading to the maximum ɳ in the range of 99.98%–99.97% and the minimum PD in the range of 5–7 W. This work is significant for the development of cost‐effective HFETs for power switching applications.
On the representation of atmospheric circulation modes in regional climate models over Western Europe
Authors: Ibebuchi Chibuike Chiedozie
Published: July 2022

Atmospheric circulation is a key driver of climate variability, and the representation of atmospheric circulation modes in regional climate models (RCMs) can enhance the credibility of regional climate projections. This study examines the representation of large‐scale atmospheric circulation modes in Coupled Model Inter‐comparison Project phase 5 RCMs once driven by ERA‐Interim, and by two general circulation models (GCMs). The study region is Western Europe and the circulation modes are classified using the Promax rotated T‐mode principal component analysis. The results indicate that the RCMs can replicate the classified atmospheric modes as obtained from ERA5 reanalysis, though with biases dependent on the data providing the lateral boundary condition and the choice of RCM. When the boundary condition is provided by ERA‐Interim that is more consistent with observations, the simulated map types and the associating time series match well with their counterparts from ERA5. Further, on average, the multi‐model ensemble mean of the analysed RCMs, driven by ERA‐Interim, indicated a slight improvement in the representation of the modes obtained from ERA5. Conversely, when the RCMs are driven by the GCMs that are models without assimilation of observational data, the representation of the atmospheric modes, as obtained from ERA5, is relatively less accurate compared to when the RCMs are driven by ERA‐Interim. This suggests that the biases stem from the GCMs. On average, the representation of the modes was not improved in the multi‐model ensemble mean of the five analysed RCMs driven by either of the GCMs. However, when the best‐performed RCMs were selected on average the ensemble mean indicated a slight improvement. Moreover, the presence of the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO) in the simulated modes depends also on the lateral boundary conditions. The relationship between the modes and the NAO was replicated only when the RCMs were driven by reanalysis. The results indicate that the forcing model is the main factor in reproducing the atmospheric circulation.
Simultaneous quantification of volatile fatty acids and nonvolatile organic acids in Hevea brasiliensis latex
Authors: Arti Dewi Kusuma , Cheewasedtham Wilairat , Rujiralai Thitima
Published: July 2022

The current method used in latex industries to determine the volatile fatty acids contents of Hevea brasiliensis latex is steam distillation. However, the accuracy of the method has been debated for some time. We assessed the accuracy of the method and developed a new, more reliable high‐performance liquid chromatographic method of determining acids in latex. The volatile fatty acids (formic, acetic, propionic, butyric, and valeric acids) and nonvolatile organic acids (oxalic, malic, lactic, citric, and succinic acids) in latex are directly determined simultaneously for the first time with high sensitivity and without losses during sample preparation. To avoid errors from derivatization, an acid‐resistant Prevail HPLC column and a gradient mobile phase of 25 mM potassium dihydrogen phosphate (pH 2.5) and acetonitrile were employed. Under optimum conditions, the calibrations of both types of acids demonstrated satisfactory correlation coefficients of  ≥0.990, with limits of detection ranging from 0.02 to 395 mM. The developed method demonstrated the profiles of acids in field and concentrated latex of the same batch. Moreover, the evolution of the profiles of all studied acids in both types of latex during a 3‐month period was also revealed.
A Straightforward Approach towards Antibacterial and Anti‐Inflammatory Multifunctional Nanofiber Membranes with Sustained Drug Release Profiles
Authors: Wang Wenjie , Wang Yilin , Zhao Weifeng , Zhao Changsheng
Published: July 2022

Preventing bacterial infection and controlling the inflammatory response occupy important positions in wound treatment. Although loading wound dressings with antibacterial or anti‐inflammatory drugs/molecules is an effective approach to address these issues, simultaneous sustained release of these drugs remains challenging. Herein, hydrophilic polyhexamethylene guanidine hydrochloride (PHGC) and hydrophobic indomethacin (Indo) are loaded in hydrophilic polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and hydrophobic polycaprolactone (PCL) nanofibers respectively by bidirectional electrospinning to form an antibacterial and anti‐inflammatory PCL‐Indo/PVA‐PHGC wound dressing. The fabricated nanofiber membrane exhibits 100% disinfection activity to both Gram‐negative (E. coli) and Gram‐positive (S. aureus) bacteria because of the release of the broad‐spectrum antibacterial molecule PHGC. Additionally, the loading of Indo in the nanofiber membrane enhances the expression level of IL‐10, while inhibiting those of IL‐6 and TNF‐α in the RAW264.7 mouse cells. In the interwoven membrane of PCL and PVA fibers, the release of hydrophobic Indo is hindered by hydrophilic PHGC and PVA fibers, and similarly, the release of hydrophilic PHGC is hindered by hydrophobic Indo and PCL fibers. In conclusion, the PCL‐Indo/PVA‐PHGC nanofiber membrane has excellent antibacterial, anti‐inflammatory, and sustained‐release effects, and thus regulates the immune microenvironment of the cells to potentially promote wound healing.
Transparent Cellulose‐Based Film with High UV‐Blocking Performance Fabricated by Surface Modification using Biginelli Reaction
Authors: Yuan Mengzhen , Liu Hongchen , Shen Kaiyuan , Qiu Changjing , Qi Haisong
Published: July 2022

Efficient and sustainable ultraviolet (UV)‐blocking materials are of great interest in many fields. Herein, novel cellulose‐based UV‐blocking films are developed via surface modification using the Biginelli reaction. The resulting films exhibited excellent visible transparency (80%) at 550 nm and superhigh UV‐blocking performance, which can shield almost 100% UVA and UVB. These features are very stable even the materials are being subjected to solvents, UV irradiation, and thermal treatment. This work provides a novel and facile strategy to fabricate functional cellulose‐based films with superhigh anti‐ultraviolet performance.
Inverse load identification in vibrating nanoplates
Authors: Kawano Alexandre , Morassi Antonino , Zaera Ramón
Published: July 2022

In this paper, we consider the uniqueness issue for the inverse problem of load identification in a nanoplate by dynamic measurements. Working in the framework of the strain gradient linear elasticity theory, we first deduce a Kirchhoff‐Love nanoplate model, and we analyze the well‐posedness of the equilibrium problem, clarifying the correct Neumann conditions on curved portions of the boundary. Our uniqueness result states that, given a transverse dynamic load
, where
and
are known time‐dependent functions, if the transverse displacement of the nanoplate is known in an open subset of its domain for any interval of time, then the spatial components
can be determined uniquely from the data. The proof is based on the spherical means method. The uniqueness result suggests a reconstruction technique to approximate the loads, as confirmed by a series of numerical simulations performed on a rectangular clamped nanoplate.
Is There a Utility of Chrono‐Specific Diets in Improving Cardiometabolic Health?
Authors: Yong Yi Ning , Henry Christiani Jeyakumar , Haldar Sumanto
Published: July 2022

Modern lifestyle is generally associated with the consumption of three main meals per day, one of which is typically in the evening or at night. It is also well established that consumption of meals in the later part of the day, notably in the evenings, is associated with circadian desynchrony, which in turn increases the risk of non‐communicable diseases, particularly cardiometabolic diseases. While it is not feasible to avoid food consumption during the evenings altogether, there is an opportunity to provide chrono‐specific, diet‐based solutions to mitigate some of these risks. To date, there has been substantial progress in the understanding of chrononutrition, with evidence derived mainly from in vitro and in vivo animal studies. Some of these approaches include the manipulation of the quality and quantity of certain nutrients to be consumed at specific times of the day, as well as incorporating certain dietary components (macronutrients, micronutrients, or non‐nutrient bioactives, including polyphenols) with the ability to modulate circadian rhythmicity. However, robust human studies are generally lacking. In this review, the study has consolidated and critically appraised the current evidence base, with an aim to translate these findings to improve cardiometabolic health and provides recommendations to move this field forward.
The burdens of incontinence: Quantifying incontinence product usage and costs in women
Authors: Chisholm Leah P. , Sebesta Elisabeth M. , Gleicher Stephanie , Kaufman Melissa , Dmochowski Roger R. , Reynolds William Stuart
Published: July 2022

Introduction

Urinary incontinence is a common condition in women, who often use incontinence containment products to self‐manage. Few studies have sought to quantify use and costs of incontinence products associated with subtypes of incontinence and severity, therefore this study aimed to quantify incontinence product use and personal costs to women.

Methods

This is a secondary analysis from a sample of adult women recruited electronically via ResearchMatch for a study on urinary symptoms and social determinants of health. Participants completed validated questionnaires on urinary symptoms, and were asked about daily numbers and types of incontinence products used and weekly costs, along with demographic and baseline clinical information, and information about unmet social needs. Descriptive statistics were performed, in addition to Wilcoxon rank sum and Kruskal–Wallis tests to compare incontinence product usage and cost based on type of incontinence, symptom severity, and other demographics, in addition to multivariable linear regression.

Results

A total of 702 women who reported using weekly incontinence products were included in the final analytic sample. Overall, women reported using a mean of 1.8 ± 2.1 incontinence products in 24 h (median: 1, interquartile range [IQR]: 1), with a maximum of 32. Mean weekly cost of was $5.42 ± $8.59 (median: $3, IQR: $4), with cost up to $100. Nonwhite women trended towards having higher product usage and cost, with significant cost increase seen among non‐Hispanic Black women and Hispanic women. Usage and cost were higher in women who had less education, had household income below the poverty line, were on disability, were using Medicaid or were uninsured, had more unmet social needs, and in those with mixed incontinence. Additionally, daily product use and weekly costs increased with incontinence symptom severity, with the biggest increase between those with severe and very severe symptoms.

Conclusions

In this study, we were able to quantify the number of incontinence products used daily and the weekly costs in incontinent women across types and severity of incontinence. Costs were even greater and may be prohibitive, in women with more unmet social needs, Medicaid or no insurance, less than a college education, lower income, or on disability.
The role of spinal cord tractography in detecting lesions following selective bladder afferent and efferent fibers injury: A novel method for induction of neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction in rabbit
Authors: Sadeghmousavi Shaghayegh , Soltani Khaboushan Alireza , Jafarnezhad‐Ansariha Fahimeh , Nejad‐Gashti Reza , Farsi Maryam , Esmaeil‐Pour Reza , Alijani Maryam , Majidi Zolbin Masoumeh , Niknejad Hassan , Kajbafzadeh Abdol‐Mohammad
Published: July 2022

Objective

Neurogenic lower urinary tract dysfunction (NLUTD), a challenging disorder, is defined by lack of bladder control due to the abnormalities in neural pathways and can be classified based on the location of lesions within the nervous system, thus investigating the neural pathways can help us to know the site of the lesion and specify the class of the NLUTD. Diffusion Tensor Imaging (DTI) tractography, a noninvasive advanced imaging method, is capable of detecting central nervous system pathologies, even if routine magnetic resonance imaging shows no abnormality. Accordingly, tractography is an ideal technique to evaluate patients with NLUTD and visualize the pathology site within the spine. This study aimed to introduce a novel method of spinal cord injury (SCI) to establish NLUTD in the rabbit and to investigate the potential of tractography in tracing neural tracts of the spinal cord in an induced NLUTD animal model.

Materials and Methods

An animal model of NLUTD was induced through cauterization of the spinal cord at the level T12–L1 in 12 rabbits. Then rabbits were assessed via DTI, urodynamic studies (UDS), voiding cystourethrogram (VCUG), and pathology assessments using antineurofilament 200 (NF200) antibody, anti‐S100, anti‐Smooth Muscle Actin, anti‐Myogenin, and anti‐MyoD1.

Results

The tractography visualized lesions within spinal cord fibers. DTI parameters including fractional anisotropy (FA) value and tract density were significantly decreased (FA: p‐value = 0.01, Tract density: p‐value = 0.05) after injury. The mean diffusivity (MD) was insignificantly increased compared to before the injury. Also, the results of UDS and pathology assessments corroborated that applying SCI and the establishment of the NLUTD model was completely successful.

Conclusion

In the present study, we investigated the auxiliary role of tractography in detecting the spinal cord lesions in the novel established rabbit model of NLUTD. The introduced method of NLUTD induction was without the leg's neurological deficit, easily applicable, low‐cost, and was accompanied by minimal surgical preparation and a satisfactory survival rate in comparison with other SCI animal models.
Validation of shear wave elastography as a noninvasive measure of pelvic floor muscle stiffness
Authors: Morin Mélanie , Salomoni Sauro E. , Stafford Ryan E. , Hall Leanne M. , Hodges Paul W.
Published: July 2022

Objectives

To investigate the validity of shear wave elastography (SWE) as a measure of stiffness of the puborectalis muscle by examining: (1) the relationship between puborectalis muscle stiffness and pelvic floor muscle (PFM) activation at different intensities; and (2) the relationship between puborectalis stiffness and pelvic floor morphometry during contractions at different intensities.

Methods

Fifteen healthy asymptomatic women performed 6‐s isometric PFM contractions at different intensities (0, 10%, 20%, 30%, 50%, 75%, and 100% of maximal voluntary contraction) guided by intravaginal electromyography (EMG). Stiffness of the puborectalis muscle was measured using SWE by calculating the average shear modulus in regions of interest that contained puborectalis muscle fibers parallel to the transducer. Pelvic floor morphometry was assessed in the mid‐sagittal plane using transperineal B‐mode ultrasound imaging. Shear modulus, EMG (root mean square amplitude) and pelvic floor morphometry parameters were normalized to the value recorded during maximal voluntary contraction. To assess the relationship between stiffness and pelvic floor activation/morphometry, coefficient of determination (r2) was calculated for each participant and a group average was computed.

Results

Shear modulus and EMG were highly correlated (average r2; left 0.90 ± 0.08, right 0.87 ± 0.15). Shear modulus also strongly correlated with bladder neck position (x‐axis horizontal coordinates relative to the pubic symphysis), anorectal rectal angle and position, levator plate angle, and antero‐posterior diameter of the levator hiatus (average r2: range 0.62–0.78).

Conclusions

These findings support the validity of SWE to assess puborectalis muscle stiffness in females. Stiffness measures were strongly associated with PFM EMG and pelvic floor morphometry and may be used to indirectly assess the level of activation of the puborectalis muscle without the use of more invasive techniques. By overcoming limitations of current assessment tools, this promising noninvasive and real‐time technique could enable important breakthrough in the pathophysiology and management of pelvic floor disorders.
Self‐efficacy and attitudes of nurses providing oral care in geriatric care facilities: A cross‐sectional study in Shanghai
Authors: Gu Liyan , Chen Lan , Li Xianchen , Chen Wenyao , Zhang Lingjuan
Published: July 2022

Aims

To investigate nurses' self‐efficacy and attitudes of providing oral care in geriatric care facilities (GCFs) and compare differences between individuals, facilities and countries.

Design

A cross‐sectional and multicentre study.

Methods

Data were collected from 852 nurses in 42 GCFs using two scales, “Self‐Efficacy for Providing Mouth Care” (SE‐PMC) and “Attitudes for Providing Mouth Care” (A‐PMC), and analysed using t‐test and ANOVA.

Results

Totally 852 nurses (844 females, 99%) participated in this study with an effective response rate of 85.2%. Scores of SE‐PMC and A‐PMC of nurses varied significantly among GCFs with different sizes, types and years of establishment and differentiated among staff about the length of employment (p < .05). Nurses (N = 434) in North Carolina scored higher than nurses in Shanghai both in SE‐PMC and A‐PMC (p < .05). Establishment and implementation of Oral health promotion programmes were desired based on characteristics of different institutions and nurses' clinical ladder.
Parallel solution of optimal control problems using the graphics processing unit
Authors: Yang Chaoyi , Fabien Brian C.
Published: July 2022

This paper presents an indirect method for solving optimal control problems (OCPs) using graphics processing unit (GPU). The OCPs considered here include control variable inequality constraints (CVICs), state variable inequality constraints (SVICs), and parameters. The necessary conditions of the minimum for the OCPs are written as a boundary value problem with index‐1 differential algebraic equations (BVP‐DAEs). The complementarity conditions associated with those inequality constraints are approximated using Kanzow's smoothed Fisher‐Burmeister formula. The numerical solution for solving the BVP‐DAEs is based on the multiple shooting technique and the DAEs are solved using a single step linearly implicit Runge–Kutta (Rosenbrock–Wanner, ROW) method. A Newton's continuation method is performed to solve the BVP‐DAEs system and the descent direction is found by solving a sparse bordered almost block diagonal (BABD) linear system with a structured orthogonal factorization algorithm. Parallel computing techniques are used to accelerate the code which is implemented using Python and CUDA on GPU. Numerical examples are presented to illustrate the efficiency of the code. The GPU based parallel implementation is shown to be significantly faster than the implementation using central processing unit (CPU) alone.
Mangrove cultural services and values: Current status and knowledge gaps
Authors: Moore Alex C. , Hierro Luis , Mir Neena , Stewart Taylor
Published: July 2022

The evaluation of cultural services and values in coastal and marine environments has been steadily increasing over the last decade, though significant knowledge gaps remain regarding specific ecosystems such as mangrove forests.

To identify these gaps, we provide a summary of the current literature on mangrove cultural services and values, indicate priority areas where additional research is needed and highlight some of the potential sociocultural impacts associated with mangrove losses.

The studies included in this synthesis identified or evaluated 16 cultural services and values linked to mangrove habitats across 25 countries, representing roughly 22% of global mangrove regions. We observed differences in assessment frameworks, methods, and author affiliations that may have influenced research outcomes with implications for future study design. Toward this end, we provide specific recommendations to improve future mangrove CSV studies.

Cultural services are often the most valued services ecosystems provided to stakeholders and local communities. As such, it is our hope that identifying these gaps will provide an impetus for the study of mangrove cultural services and values, thereby resulting in an improved understanding of the interactions between people and mangroves for the benefit of both.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
The effect of boron nitride, carbon nanotubes, and their synergy on the properties of LLDPE and LLDPE/wax blend
Authors: Mokoena Tiisetso Ephraim , Mochane Mokgaotsa Jonas , Mokhena Teboho Clement , Motloung Mary Tholwana , Sefadi Jeremiah Shale
Published: July 2022

This study deals with the effect of two types of conductive fillers (viz., boron nitride and single walled carbon nanotubes) on the properties of the linear low‐density polyethylene (LLDPE) matrix and LLDPE/paraffin wax (PW) blend. Pure LLDPE and paraffin wax/LLDPE blend (30/70) were melt‐mixed with 2 wt% content of boron nitride (BN) and single walled carbon nanotube (SWCNT), as well as their synergy at 2 wt%. Because it is well‐known that both conductive fillers were able to improve the thermal conductivity of the paraffin wax/polymer blends, the aim of this study was to focus on the effect of both conductive fillers on the dispersion of paraffin wax into LLDPE matrix, mechanical properties, crystallization behavior, and thermal stability of the LLDPE/wax blend. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images of the LLDPE/paraffin wax blends depicted a phase separated system, which was further supported by two separate peaks from the differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The morphology of the system showed that the addition of boron nitride (BN) into the LLDPE/paraffin wax blend had no affinity with the paraffin wax, while the addition of single walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNT) showed better dispersion into the LLDPE/paraffin wax/BN blend composites. The incorporation of the SWCNT and its synergy with BN enhanced the thermal stability of the LLDPE.
Postural balance and its association with functionality and quality of life in non‐hospitalized patients with post‐acute COVID‐19 syndrome
Authors: de Sousa Kennedy Cristian Alves , Gardel Damara Guedes , Lopes Agnaldo José
Published: July 2022

Background and Objectives

The neuromuscular system is responsible for performing adequate muscle activities to maintain postural balance. Since COVID‐19 can cause damage to this system, long‐term sequelae might alter control of postural stability. This study aimed to evaluate the postural balance of patients with post‐acute COVID‐19 syndrome (PCS) who were not hospitalized and to evaluate the correlations of changes in postural balance with general fatigue, muscle strength, and quality of life (QoL).

Methods

This was a cross‐sectional study in which 40 patients with PCS and 40 controls underwent balance assessment through the Berg Balance Scale (BBS) and Tinetti Balance Scale (TBS). They were evaluated for general fatigue by the Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy‐Fatigue (FACIT‐F) scale, handgrip strength (HGS), and quality of life (QoL) by the Short Form‐36 (SF‐36).

Results

When compared to controls, patients with PCS had lower BBS and TBS scores (p = 0.001 for both). The FACIT‐F score was lower in PCS patients (p = 0.0001). HGS was slightly lower in the PCS patients, but not statistically significant (p = 0.09). Regarding QoL, PCS patients showed worse evaluations in five dimensions of the SF‐36 (physical functioning, physical role limitations, bodily pain, general health perceptions, and mental health). Both the BBS and TBS scores had statistically significant positive correlations with the FACIT‐F score, HGS, and two SF‐36 dimensions (physical role limitations and emotional role limitations).

Conclusions

Patients with PCS show worse postural balance than controls, which is associated with general fatigue, lower HGS, and poor QoL. Postural balance assessment should be considered in the follow‐up and rehabilitation of PCS.
Integrated systems modeling of severe asthma: Exploration of IL‐33/ST2 antagonism
Authors: Gadkar Kapil , Feigelman Justin , Sukumaran Siddharth , Rodrigo Manoj C. , Staton Tracy , Cai Fang , Bauer Rebecca N. , Choy David F. , Stokes Cynthia L. , Scheerens Heleen , Ramanujan Saroja
Published: July 2022

Asthma is a complex, heterogeneous disease with a high unmet medical need, despite therapies targeting a multitude of pathways. The ability to quantitatively integrate preclinical and clinical data on these pathways could aid in the development and testing of novel targets and therapeutics. In this work, we develop a computational model of asthma biology, including key cell types and mediators, and create a virtual population capturing clinical heterogeneity. The simulated responses to therapies targeting IL‐13, IL‐4Rα, IL‐5, IgE, and TSLP demonstrate agreement with clinical endpoints and biomarkers of type 2 (T2) inflammation, including blood eosinophils, FEV1, IgE, and FeNO. We use the model to explore the potential benefit of targeting the IL‐33 pathway with anti‐IL‐33 and anti‐ST2. Model predictions are compared with data on blood eosinophils, FeNO, and FEV1 from recent anti‐IL‐33 and anti‐ST2 trials and used to interpret trial results based on pathway biology and pharmacology. Results of sensitivity analyses on the contributions of IL‐33 to the predicted biomarker changes suggest that anti‐ST2 therapy reduces circulating blood eosinophil levels primarily through its impact on eosinophil progenitor maturation and IL‐5‐dependent survival, and induces changes in FeNO and FEV1 through its effect on immune cells involved in T2 cytokine production. Finally, we also investigate the impact of ST2 genetics on the conferred benefit of anti‐ST2. The model includes representation of a wide array of biologic mechanisms and interventions that will provide mechanistic insight and support clinical program design for a wide range of novel therapies during drug development.
Wheat germ improves hepatic steatosis, hepatic enzymes, and metabolic and inflammatory parameters in patients with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease: A randomized, placebo‐controlled, double‐blind clinical trial
Authors: Salehi‐Sahlabadi Ammar , Kord‐Varkaneh Hamed , Kocaadam‐Bozkurt Betul , Seraj Shaikh Sanjid , Alavian Seyed Moayed , Hekmatdoost Azita
Published: July 2022

Globally, Non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has a rising prevalence with no definitive pharmacological treatments. The aim of this study was to assess the clinical effects of wheat germ in patients with NAFLD. Fifty participants with NAFLD were randomly allocated to take 40 g wheat germ (n = 25) or placebo (n = 25) in a randomized double‐blind clinical trial over 12 weeks. Transient elastography (FibroScan) determined a diagnosis of NAFLD. After 12 weeks of intervention, reduction in serum alanine aminotransferase (p = 0.006) and γ‐glutamyltransferase (p = 0.004), total cholesterol (p = 0.018), triglyceride (p = 0.046), and hepatic steatosis (p = 0.043) levels in the wheat germ group was significantly higher compared to the placebo group. Serum TAC levels in wheat germ group patients increased significantly higher than placebo group (p = 0.001). Reduction in serum hs‐CRP level in the wheat germ group was significantly higher than in the placebo group (p = 0.031). In conclusion, our study shows that wheat germ consumption may improve total antioxidant capacity, hepatic steatosis, serum total cholesterol and triglyceride levels, alanine aminotransferase (ALT), and Gamma‐glutamyl Transferase (GGT) in NAFLD patients. Longitudinal studies with larger sample sizes are needed to confirm biological effects of wheat germ on NAFLD patients.
Softball teaches lessons in leadership
Authors: Hodges Dawn Z.
Published: July 2022

I didn't play team sports when I was a kid. When I got married, I acquired a 9‐year‐old stepson who played soccer. It wasn't until his daughters began to play softball at ages 4 and 9 that I had any interest in the sport. For the last six years, I have spent a considerable amount of time every spring and fall watching recreational league softball. I have learned a thing or two.
Envision executive functioning as a distinct paradigm applying across multiple disabilities
Authors: Bedrossian Louise
Published: July 2022

Executive functioning (also referred to as EF) is surfacing as a combination of skills that seem to impact not just attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and learning disabilities, but also autism, brain injuries, anxiety disorders, depressive disorders, chronic pain disorder, Alzheimer's, schizophrenia, and other psychotic disorders.
Plan for political, controversial events on your campus
Authors: Zacarese Lawrence M.
Published: July 2022

There's no time like the present to prepare for political candidates and controversial speakers — and in some cases, individuals who may be considered both! — to visit your campus this fall semester.
Did court dismiss graduate student's Title IX claim?
Authors: Lyerly Eric
Published: July 2022

A University of Northern Colorado graduate student met a female student, “Ms. Doe.” Doe and the student went to a taphouse and coffee shop, where they had conversations and “did a lot of dares.”
Authenticity, student support grows enrollment
Authors: Hope Joan
Published: July 2022

When Steve Robinson became Senior Associate Vice President for Enrollment Management at the University of Utah two and a half years ago, what he learned about the institution during the job search process convinced him it was a sleeping giant.
Probing the Photophysics of Covalently and Non‐covalently Bonded Graphene Quantum Dots‐Tetraaminophenylporphyrin Nanohybrids
Authors: Pallikkara Athira , Ramakrishnan Kala
Published: July 2022

Herein, we scrutinize the photophysical and electronic changes on graphene quantum dots (GQDs) which occurs as a consequence of both type of covalent and non‐covalent functionalization using Tetraaminophenylporphyrin (TAPP). Covalent functionalization resulted in amide bond between GQD and TAPP (GQD‐CONH‐TAPP), while electrostatic interactions, hydrogen bonding and π‐π interactions together contribute to the binding in non‐covalent functionalization. Outstanding difference between both of the functionalized GQDs were observed in their UV‐Visible absorption spectra, photoluminescence (PL) spectra and time‐correlated single photon counting (TCSPC) measurements. GQD‐CONH‐TAPP acts as a charge separated system having C1 point group. In case of GQD‐TAPP, the non‐covalent nanohybrid system, photoinduced electron transfer from TAPP to GQD occurs with a dynamic quenching constant of 21.89×103 M−1 and bimolecular rate constant of 2.77×1014 M−1s−1. Feasibility of this electron transfer is reinforced by the negative ΔGPET value and the theoretical studies.
The Bioremediation Capacity of Sphingomonas melonis for Methomyl‐Contaminated Soil Media: RSM Optimization and Biochemical Assessment by Dreissena polymorpha
Authors: Önder Erguven Gokhan , Serdar Osman , Tanyol Mehtap , Cikcikoglu Yildirim Nuran , Yildirim Numan , Durmus Barbaros
Published: July 2022

The bioremediation capacity of S. melonis for methomyl investigated with RSM. Oxidative stress and neurotoxic response determined in D. polymorpha. COD and TOC levels were measured. GSH, MDA levels and CAT, SOD, AChE activities in D. polymorpha exposed to before (group A) and after (group B) bioremediated media during 24 and 96 h were tested by using ELISA kit. AchE activity was decreased 24th h but increased during 96th h in group B compared with group A (p<0.05). MDA levels and CAT activities were decreased during 24 h and 96 h in group B compared with group A (p<0.05). GSH levels were increased during 24 h and 96 h in group B compared with group A (p<0.05). SOD activity did not show a significant change in group B (p<0.05). Methomyl could be effectively remediated by S. melonis and CAT, AChE activities and GSH, TBARS levels of D. polymorpha are useful biomarkers for evaluating the bioremediation capacity.
Photo‐Induced Degradation of 2D Dion−Jacobson Perovskites under Continuous Light Illumination
Authors: Zeng Zhongle , Chen Xiangyu , Yue Yunfan , Li Sheng , Chai Nianyao , Mai Bo , Meng Jiaqi , Cheng Yi-Bing , Wang Xuewen
Published: July 2022

In the past decade, there has been a rapid development in perovskite solar cells, and their highest device efficiency has reached 25.7%. But their poor stability is still one of the critical factors hindering commercialization. Compared with 3D‐structured perovskites, 2D perovskites have better structural stability especially 2D Dion−Jacobson (D–J) perovskites. However, their degradation mechanism under light is not clear. Herein, the changes in the absorption spectra of D–J perovskites (PDA(FA)n−1PbnI3n−1) under continuous light illumination (100 mW cm−2) are investigated. The absorption spectra of D–J perovskites with different n values change in different degrees after two hours of continuous light illumination. It is found that the absorption intensity near the band edge of all these films has been enhanced, which indicates that some more absorbing species are produced. X‐Ray diffraction patterns confirm that the PDA(FA)n−1PbnI3n−1 2D D–J perovskite is transformed into 3D α‐FAPbI3 after illumination, and further transformed into δ‐FAPbI3 and PbI2. The proposed work contributes to understanding the degradation mechanism of 2D D–J perovskite under illumination and improving the stability of 2D D–J perovskite materials.
Manipulation of Sulfur Vacancies and Dislocations in Mn0.3Cd0.7S Nanorods with Modification of Co2P toward Photocatalytic H2 Evolution
Authors: Han Yanling , Feng Xiao , Gan Bin , He Jiari , Feng Jianyong , Zhao Minyue , Li Zhaosheng , Zou Zhigang
Published: July 2022

Defect engineering and cocatalyst loading are effective methods to modify semiconductors to improve their catalytic activity and stability. Herein, sulfur vacancies and dislocations in Mn0.3Cd0.7S nanorods are manipulated by regulating the amount of the sulfur source. After the introduction of Co2P, the maximum H2 production rate for Co2P/Mn0.3Cd0.7S can reach up to 245.3 μmol h−1, ≈2,700 times higher than that of Mn0.3Cd0.7S at the optimal contents of sulfur vacancies and dislocations. The sulfur vacancies serve as the trap sites of electrons and the dislocations might create new transfer channels for carriers, inducing the improvement of catalytic activity and stability.
Dubai Shade Structures: Fasergelege für flexible Leichtbaukonstruktionen
Authors: Gabriel Marc , Hinz Holger
Published: July 2022

Für die Weltausstellung 2020 in Dubai entwickelte Werner Sobek innovative Verschattungsanlagen, die alle Länderpavillons auf dem Ausstellungsgelände miteinander verbinden. Diese Konstruktionen überspannen eine Fläche von rund 96.000 m2. Auf dem Grundprinzip einer weitspannenden Stahlrahmenkonstruktion wurden drei verschiedene Verschattungssysteme entwickelt. Im vorliegenden Bericht wird eines dieser drei Verschattungssysteme vorgestellt, das mit einem Fasergelege ausgeführt wurde. Es wurde an die rauen klimatischen Bedingungen des Standorts angepasst, indem gezielt Neuerungen im Bereich der Filamentgelegetechnologie in den Entwurf integriert wurden. Ein wichtiges Entwurfsziel war es, Beschattung und Luftzirkulation zu gewährleisten, um das Mikroklima im öffentlichen Raum zu verbessern. Die Umgebungstemperatur unter den Verschattungselementen sollte so auf natürlichem Wege um 5 °K gesenkt werden. Eine Minimierung der CO2‐Emissionen bzw. der grauen Energie, ein kreislauftaugliches Konstruieren und Bauen waren weitere wichtige Zielsetzungen.
Structural Modification of Empty and Partially Filled Paddy Grain Through Hydrothermal Pre‐treatment as a Novel Substrate for Fermentable Glucose Production
Authors: Abu Bakar Nurul Ain , Roslan Ahmad Muhaimin , Hassan Mohd Ali , Abdul Rahman Muhammad Daaniyall , Mohamad Rozyanti , Ibrahim Khairul Nadiah
Published: July 2022

In this study, two conditions of empty and partially filled paddy grain (EPFG) (unground and ground) are pre‐treated using a mild hydrothermal process at 120 °C at 30–120 min. The pre‐treatment condition which shows potential structural changes for sugar conversion (gelatinization of starch, reduction of hemicellulose to 11.8%, and increased in cellulose to 43.3%) involves combination of dry grinding and hydrothermal pre‐treatment at 60 min. In this condition, the starch and sugars released in the liquid fraction is high at 127 and 37.1 mg g−1, respectively, which can easily be converted into glucose without the need of enzyme usage. The effectiveness of the pre‐treatment on EPFG structural changes is further confirmed through scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X‐ray diffraction (XRD), showing disruption of structures leading to amorphous biomass. Glucose production of pre‐treated ground EPFG (G‐EPFG) shows higher value at 30.13 g L−1 for 10% solid loading than the untreated samples. Overall, the results suggest that EPFG produced as waste in paddy milling factories can be a potential feedstock for a biorefinery based on the findings and processes derived from this study.
Correction to: Assessing Chromatin Accessibility during WBR in Acoels
Authors: Gehrke Andrew R. , Srivastava Mansi
Published: July 2022

In the original version of this book, Figure 3 in Chapter 29 was inadvertently published with some errors. This has been rectified in the updated version of this book.
Using Machine Learning techniques in phenomenological studies on flavour physics
Authors: Alda J. , Guasch J. , Peñaranda S.
Published: July 2022

Abstract

An updated analysis of New Physics violating Lepton Flavour Universality, by using the Standard Model Effective Field Lagrangian with semileptonic dimension six operators at Λ = 1 TeV is presented. We perform a global fit, by discussing the relevance of the mixing in the first generation. We use for the first time in this context a Montecarlo analysis to extract the confidence intervals and correlations between observables. Our results show that machine learning, made jointly with the SHAP values, constitute a suitable strategy to use in this kind of analysis.
Multiple roles played by the mitochondrial citrate carrier in cellular metabolism and physiology
Authors: Zara Vincenzo , Assalve Graziana , Ferramosca Alessandra
Published: July 2022

The citrate carrier (CIC) is an integral protein of the inner mitochondrial membrane which catalyzes the efflux of mitochondrial citrate (or other tricarboxylates) in exchange with a cytosolic anion represented by a tricarboxylate or a dicarboxylate or phosphoenolpyruvate. In this way, the CIC provides the cytosol with citrate which is involved in many metabolic reactions. Several studies have been carried out over the years on the structure, function and regulation of this metabolite carrier protein both in mammals and in many other organisms. A lot of data on the characteristics of this protein have therefore accumulated over time thereby leading to a complex framework of metabolic and physiological implications connected to the CIC function. In this review, we critically analyze these data starting from the multiple roles played by the mitochondrial CIC in many cellular processes and then examining the regulation of its activity in different nutritional and hormonal states. Finally, the metabolic significance of the citrate flux, mediated by the CIC, across distinct subcellular compartments is also discussed.
Enhancing fluency and productivity in human-robot collaboration through online scaling of dynamic safety zones
Authors: Scalera Lorenzo , Giusti Andrea , Vidoni Renato , Gasparetto Alessandro
Published: July 2022

Industrial collaborative robotics is promising for manufacturing activities where the presence of a robot alongside a human operator can improve operator’s working conditions, flexibility, and productivity. A collaborative robotic application has to guarantee not only safety of the human operator, but also fluency in the collaboration, as well as performance in terms of productivity and task time. In this paper, we present an approach to enhance fluency and productivity in human-robot collaboration through online scaling of dynamic safety zones. A supervisory controller runs online safety checks between bounding volumes enclosing robot and human to identify possible collision dangers. To optimize the sizes of safety zones enclosing the manipulator, the method minimizes the time of potential stop trajectories considering the robot dynamics and its torque constraints, and leverages the directed speed of the robot parts with respect to the human. Simulations and experimental tests on a seven-degree-of-freedom robotic arm verify the effectiveness of the proposed approach, and collaborative fluency metrics show the benefits of the method with respect to existing approaches.
Cultivable microbial diversity in speleothems using MALDI-TOF spectrometry and DNA sequencing from Krem Soitan, Krem Lawbah, Krem Mawpun, Khasi Hills, Meghalaya, India
Authors: Mudgil Devender , Paul Dhiraj , Baskar Sushmitha , Baskar Ramanathan , Shouche Yogesh S.
Published: July 2022

The microbial diversity in the Indian caves is inadequately characterized. This study reports on the culturable microbial communities in caves from the Indian sub-continent. This study aims to expand the current understanding of bacterial diversity in the speleothems and wall deposits from Krem Soitan, Krem Lawbah, Krem Mawpun in Khasi Hills, Meghalaya, India. A culture-dependent approach was employed for elucidating the community structure in the caves using MALDI-TOF spectrometry and 16S rRNA gene sequencing. A high bacterial diversity and a greater bacterial taxonomic diversity is reported using MALDI-TOF spectrometry and 16S rRNA gene sequencing. High microbial enumerations were observed on dilute nutrient agar (5.3 × 103 to 8.8 × 105) followed by M9 minimal medium (4 × 104 to 1.7 × 105) and R2A medium (1.0 × 104 to 5.7 × 105). A total of 826 bacterial isolates were selected and preserved for the study. 295 bacterial isolates were identified using MALDI-TOF spectrometry and the isolates which showed no reliable peaks were further identified by 16S rRNA gene sequencing. A total 91% of the bacterial diversity was dominated by Proteobacteria (61%) and Actinobacteria (30%). In addition, bacterial phyla include Firmicutes (7.45%), Deinococcus-Thermus (0.33%) and Bacteroidetes (0.67%) were found in the samples. At the genus level, Pseudomonas (55%) and Arthrobacter (23%) were ubiquitous followed by Acinetobacter, Bacillus, Brevundimonas, Deinococcus, Flavobacterium, Paenibacillus, Pseudarthrobacter. Multivariate statistical analysis indicated that the bacterial genera formed separate clusters depending on the geochemical constituents in the spring waters suitable for their growth and metabolism. To the best of our knowledge, there are no previous geomicrobiological investigations in these caves and this study is a pioneering culture dependent study of the microbial community with many cultured isolates.
Almost positive kernels on compact Riemannian manifolds
Authors: Gariboldi Bianca , Gigante Giacomo
Published: July 2022

We show how to build a kernel $$ K_X(x,y)=\sum _{m=0}^Xh(\lambda _m/{\lambda _X})\varphi _m(x)\overline{\varphi _m(y)} $$

K
X

(
x
,
y
)

=

∑

m
=
0

X

h

(

λ
m

/

λ
X

)

φ
m

(
x
)

φ
m

(
y
)

¯

on a compact Riemannian manifold $${{\,\mathrm{\mathcal {M}}\,}}$$

M

, which is positive up to a negligible error and such that $$K_X(x,x)\approx X$$

K
X

(
x
,
x
)

≈
X

. Here $$0=\lambda _0^2\le \lambda _1^2\le \cdots $$

0
=

λ
0
2

≤

λ
1
2

≤
⋯

are the eigenvalues of the Laplace–Beltrami operator on $${{\,\mathrm{\mathcal {M}}\,}}$$

M

, listed with repetitions, and $$\varphi _0,\,\varphi _1,\ldots $$

φ
0

,

φ
1

,
…

an associated system of eigenfunctions, forming an orthonormal basis of $$L^2({{\,\mathrm{\mathcal {M}}\,}})$$

L
2

(

M

)

. The function h is smooth up to a certain minimal degree, even, compactly supported in $$[-1,1]$$

[
-
1
,
1
]

with $$h(0)=1$$

h
(
0
)
=
1

, and $$K_X(x,y)$$

K
X

(
x
,
y
)

turns out to be an approximation to the identity.