bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
α‐linolenic acid interconversion is sufficient as a source of longer chain ω‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acids in humans: An opinion
Authors: Burdge Graham C.
Published: August 2022

α‐linolenic acid (αLNA) conversion into the functionally important ω‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), has been regarded as inadequate for meeting nutritional requirements for these PUFA. This view is based on findings of small αLNA supplementation trials and stable isotope tracer studies that have been interpreted as indicating human capacity for EPA and, in particular, DHA synthesis is limited. The purpose of this review is to re‐evaluate this interpretation. Markedly differing study designs, inconsistent findings and lack of trial replication preclude robust consensus regarding the nutritional adequacy of αLNA as a source of EPC and DHA. The conclusion that αLNA conversion in humans is constrained is inaccurate because it presupposes the existence of an unspecified, higher level of metabolic activity. Since capacity for EPA and DHA synthesis is the product of evolution it may be argued that the levels of EPA and DHA it maintains are nutritionally appropriate. Dietary and supra‐dietary EPA plus DHA intakes confer health benefits. Paradoxically, such health benefits are also found amongst vegetarians who do not consume EPA and DHA, and for whom αLNA conversion is the primary source of ω‐3 PUFA. Since there are no reported adverse effects on health or cognitive development of diets that exclude EPA and DHA, their synthesis from αLNA appears to be nutritionally adequate. This is consistent with the dietary essentiality of αLNA and has implications for developing sustainable nutritional recommendations for ω‐3 PUFA.
Array genotyping as diagnostic approach in medical genetics
Authors: Witsch‐Baumgartner Martina , Schwaninger Gunda , Schnaiter Simon , Kollmann Franziska , Burkhard Silja , Gröbner Rebekka , Mühlegger Beatrix , Schamschula Esther , Kirchmeier Peter , Zschocke Johannes
Published: August 2022

Genotyping arrays are by far the most widely used genetic tests but are not generally utilized for diagnostic purposes in a medical context. In the present study, we examined the diagnostic value of a standard genotyping array (Illumina Global Screening Array) for a range of indications. Applications included stand‐alone testing for specific variants (32 variants in 10 genes), first‐tier array variant screening for monogenic conditions (10 different autosomal recessive metabolic diseases), and diagnostic workup for specific conditions caused by variants in multiple genes (suspected familial breast and ovarian cancer, and hypercholesterolemia). Our analyses showed a high analytical sensitivity and specificity of array‐based analyses for validated and non‐validated variants, and identified pitfalls that require attention. Ethical‐legal assessment highlighted the need for a software solution that allows for individual indication‐based consent and the reliable exclusion of non‐consented results. Cost/time assessment revealed excellent performance of diagnostic array analyses, depending on indication, proband data, and array design. We have implemented some analyses in our diagnostic portfolio, but array optimization is required for the implementation of other indications.
Detection of pericentric inversion with breakpoint in DMD by whole genome sequencing
Authors: Zaum Ann‐Kathrin , Nanda Indrajit , Kress Wolfram , Rost Simone
Published: August 2022

Background

Dystrophinopathies caused by variants in the DMD gene are a well‐studied muscle disease. The most common type of variant in DMD are large deletions. Very rarely reported forms of variants are chromosomal translocations, inversions and deep intronic variants (DIVs) because they are not detectable by standard diagnostic techniques (sequencing of coding sequence, copy number variant detection). This might be the reason that some clinically and histologically proven dystrophinopathy cases remain unsolved.

Methods

We used whole genome sequencing (WGS) to screen the entire DMD gene for variants in one of two brothers suffering from typical muscular dystrophy with strongly elevated creatine kinase levels.

Results

Although a pathogenic DIV could not be detected, we were able to identify a pericentric inversion with breakpoints in DMD intron 44 and Xq13.3, which could be confirmed by Sanger sequencing in the index as well as in his brother and mother. As this variation affects a major part of DMD it is most likely disease causing.

Conclusion

Our findings elucidate that WGS is capable of detecting large structural rearrangements and might be suitable for the genetic diagnostics of dystrophinopathies in the future. In particular, inversions might be a more frequent cause for dystrophinopathies as anticipated and should be considered in genetically unsolved dystrophinopathy cases.
Super‐UWB MIMO antenna with high isolation
Authors: Rahim Sajjad , Yang Xue‐Xia , Elobied Abubaker A. , Xiao Bo‐Zhong
Published: August 2022

A 1 × 2 multiple‐input multiple‐output (MIMO) antenna with super‐ultra wideband (super‐UWB) operation and high isolation is proposed. The antenna element has an eye‐shape radiator fed by a tapered shape feedline on the top side and a defected ground structure etched on the bottom ground plane. A high isolation between two radiators is achieved by introducing a T‐shape and two small arm shape stubs at the center of the ground plane. The proposed design was verified by a fabricated prototype and measurement. The measured results show that the MIMO antenna achieves impedance bandwidth of 3 ~ 45 GHz, isolation of 21 dB, and a peak gain of 10.1 dBi. The envelope correlation coefficient is less than 0.02. The overall size of the design is only 0.26λ0L × 0.3λ0L (λ0L is the free space wavelength at 3 GHz).
A low phase noise dual‐band voltage‐controlled oscillator based on switchable tunable filter
Authors: Wang Hailong , Lai Jinming , Wang Chaojie , Li Zhiyou , Ma Xiaohua
Published: August 2022

In this letter, a parallel‐feedback dual‐band voltage‐controlled oscillator (DVCO) with low phase noise and a wide tuning range is proposed. The DVCO is composed of two tunable filters associated with four switches and an active device. By controlling four switches, the oscillation frequency can be switched and oscillated in one of two bands. The employed tunable filter with maintained passband shape and wide frequency tuning range (FTR) is beneficial to designing wideband DVCO with low phase noise. Owing to the maintained frequency response, the sharp phase variation and high in‐band group delay can be maintained during the filter tuning process, which can enhance the phase noise improvement. Moreover, the sharp phase variation can realize the phase compensation in a wide FTR when tuning the DVCO. To develop a DVCO with a simple circuit scheme, the two‐pole tunable filters with two different FTRs are designed. For verification, the proposed DVCO is designed, manufactured, and measured. The measurement results show that each band of the DVCO has a tuning range of 1.97–2.58 GHz (27.8%) and 2.934–3.468 GHz (16.7%), respectively. For the lower band, the phase noise at 100 kHz and 1 MHz frequency offset is better than −99.2 and −126.4 dBc/Hz, respectively. While for the upper band, the phase noise at 100 kHz and 1 MHz frequency offset is better than −101.2 and −127.4 dBc/Hz, respectively.
Emotional appeals effectiveness in enhancing charity digital advertisements
Authors: Yousef Murooj , Dietrich Timo , Rundle‐Thiele Sharyn , Alhabash Saleem
Published: August 2022

Advertising appeals effectiveness has long been a point of debate in the literature. This study empirically tests hope and shame online advertisements aimed at enhancing donation quality to charities. Following a sequential research design the current research carries two studies to tests the effect of hope and shame appeal messages on social media on behavioral engagement measures, guided by the multi‐actor engagement framework. Findings indicate shame appeals framed as losses are more effective in driving engagement than hope gain framed messages. The overall findings provide supporting evidence for the interplay between negative emotions and message framing. To achieve higher engagement and trigger behavior change while utilizing budgets effectively, charities would benefit from utilizing loss framed and shame inducing advertising messages.
A mixed‐methods evaluation of the experience of emerging young adult care partners
Authors: Marziliano Allison , Applebaum Allison , Siess Samantha , Moyer Anne
Published: August 2022

There is limited literature on emerging young adult (EYA) care partners, despite a recent rise in interest in this group. The purpose of this study is to compare EYA care partners and their non‐care partner peers in the domains of academic achievement and engagement, employment, health‐related behaviors and self‐care, and mental health and respite, as well as to assess EYA care partners’ burden and potential for positive psychosocial sequelae and life changes as a result of their role. Further, within EYA care partners, we examine the relationship between mental health variables and care partner‐relevant variables. Two hundred undergraduates (100 care partners and 100 non‐care partners) completed measures of academic achievement and engagement (grade point average and credit load), employment (number of paid positions held and number of hours worked per week), health‐related behavior/self‐care (visits to the dentist, primary care physician, optometrist, diet healthfulness, exercise, cigarette smoking, and drinks per week) and mental health/respite (depression, anxiety, loneliness, drinking, social support, peer pressure, vacation recency, and frequency). Care partners completed measures of spiritual well‐being, burden, meaning, and benefit‐finding, as well as provided qualitative feedback on how caregiving changed their lives. EYA care partners and non‐care partners did not differ on any variables examined except for the number of jobs held, as EYA care partners held more paid jobs than EYA non‐care partners. EYA care partners showed moderate burden and high levels of finding meaning/benefit, the latter of which was supported by the themes that emerged from their qualitative data. Within EYA care partners, we found that depression and anxiety (mental health variables) were significantly related to spiritual well‐being, burden, benefit finding, and finding meaning through caregiving (care partner‐relevant variables). It is encouraging that the care partner and non‐care partner groups were similar in domains critical for this age group, such as academic achievement and engagement.
Trials and adventures of the synthesis and evaluation of amphiphilic graft copolymers with dynamic topology
Authors: Kumler Margaret S. , Skinner Nicole M. , Meyersohn Marianne S. , Colt Tyler A. , Valverde Marvin , Powell Cameron E. , Costanzo Philip J.
Published: August 2022

Amphiphilic graft copolymers were prepared via a grafting through approach to yield materials with a hydrophilic backbone and hydrophobic arms. The thermally responsive macromonomers were designed to contain a Diels–Alder adduct such that cyclo‐reversion would cleave the arms from the backbone thus altering polymer topology, composition and solubility. The macromonomers were prepared via light‐inducted atom transfer radical polymerization followed by post‐polymerization modification to install a polymerizable functionality. Next, free radical polymerization was employed to yield thermally responsive amphiphilic graft copolymers, whose solution state characteristics were extensively characterized by UV/Vis spectroscopy and fluorimetry. Due to the amphiphilic nature of the graft copolymer, some unexpected results occurred because of aggregation and solubility limitations. Furthermore, it was discovered that poly(N‐isopropyl acrylamide) exhibited distinct and unique aggregation properties by itself.
Twin Peak Quasi‐Periodic Oscillations and Stability via Thin‐Shell Formalism of Traversable Wormholes in Symmetric Teleparallel Gravity
Authors: Mustafa G. , Gao X. , Javed Faisal
Published: August 2022

This article explores the wormhole geometry in the background of symmetric teleparallel gravity or gravity, where is the non‐metricity term, and definite subject for the gravitational interaction. All the energy conditions are investigated for two different generic shape functions. The presence of exotic matter is confirmed due to the violation of the energy conditions. The epicyclic orbits of test particles around wormhole throat for the considered models are discussed. Twin peak Quasi‐periodic oscillations are calculated and presented with the required behavior. We also explore the physical characteristics and stable configuration of thin‐shell developed from the matching of inner obtained solution of wormhole geometry and outer black hole solution in gravity. The stability of shell is discussed by using the speed of sound parameter for both choices of shape functions, i.e., and . It is found that the position of event horizon does not change for different values of the physical parameter for the choice of while it changes for . We explore the proper length, shell energy and entropy of the developed structure for different values of physical parameters.
The role of selected nutraceuticals in management of prediabetes and diabetes: An updated review of the literature
Authors: Derosa Giuseppe , D'Angelo Angela , Maffioli Pamela
Published: August 2022

Dysglycemia is a disease state preceding the onset of diabetes and includes impaired fasting glycemia and impaired glucose tolerance. This review aimed to collect and analyze the literature reporting the results of clinical trials evaluating the effects of selected nutraceuticals on glycemia in humans. The results of the analyzed trials, generally, showed the positive effects of the nutraceuticals studied alone or in association with other supplements on fasting plasma glucose and post‐prandial plasma glucose as primary outcomes, and their efficacy in improving insulin resistance as a secondary outcome. Some evidences, obtained from clinical trials, suggest a role for some nutraceuticals, and in particularBerberis,Banaba,Curcumin, andGuar gum, in the management of prediabetes and diabetes. However, contradictory results were found on the hypoglycemic effects ofMorus,Ilex paraguariensis,Omega‐3,Allium cepa, andTrigonella faenum graecum,whereby rigorous long‐term clinical trials are needed to confirm these data. More studies are also needed forEugenia jambolana, as well as forAscophyllum nodosumandFucus vesiculosuswhich glucose‐lowering effects were observed when administered in combination, but not alone. Further trials are also needed for quercetin.
A Novel Disposable Immunosensor for Early Diagnosis of Cardiovascular Diseases
Authors: Çalışkan Meltem , Vural Berfin , Sezgintürk Mustafa Kemal
Published: August 2022

Cardiovascular diseases are highly common cause of mortality and morbidity. It is envisaged that there is a relationship between cardiovascular diseases and ST2 (Suppression of Tumorigenicity 2) concentration of protein. In patients with cardiac insufficiency, the ST2 concentration was reported as higher than people without cardiac insufficiency. In this study ITO‐PET sheets (indium tin oxide covered terephthalate) was used as a working electrode for the fabrication of the immunosensor for ST2 protein. In the optimization experiments, important parameters responsible for biosensor fabrication have been optimized. After determining optimal conditions, reproducibility, repeatability, regeneration possibility, and analytical properties such as storage life are determined. The immunosensor showed a linear detection range for ST2 between 1–1500 fg/mL with a LOD value of 3.98 fg/mL. We also carried out SFI (single frequency impedance) experiments to monitor the specific interaction between ST2 and anti‐ST2, simultaneously. The developed immunosensor was successively applied to the determination of ST2 in commercial human serum sample.
Conformational Switching of Pyrenes Associated on Hairpin Loop Region by DNA B‐Z Transition
Authors: Nakamura Mitsunobu , Yoshioka Hibiki , Takada Tadao
Published: August 2022

DNA B−Z transitions play an important role in biological systems and have attracted much attention in DNA nanotechnology. DNA and its analogues have also been used as templates to construct helical chromophore associates with π‐interactions. We prepared DNAs with consecutive non‐nucleoside pyrene residues in the middle of d(CG) repeat sequences. The pyrene‐labelled DNAs adopted a unimolecular hairpin structure, in which the pyrenes associated in the loop region. They exhibited inversion of exciton‐coupled circular dichroism signals that can be ascribed to pyrene association through a DNA B−Z transition. This indicates that the conformation of pyrene associates can be switched from right to left by the DNA B−Z transition. The fluorescence of the pyrene‐labelled DNA changed when switching the association. Thus, pyrene‐labelled DNA can be utilized as a chiroptical molecular switch.
Synthesis of Steroidal Thioethers via [HDBU][OAc]‐Mediated Michael Addition of Thiols to 16‐Dehydropregnenolone
Authors: Maksó Lilla , Kovács Krisztina , Andreidesz Kitti , Gömöry Ágnes , Mahó Sándor , Skoda‐Földes Rita
Published: August 2022

In the catalytic addition of thiols to 16‐dehydropregnenolone fourteen thioethers were prepared via thiol‐Michael addition reaction in the presence of different aliphatic and aromatic thiols as reagents. [HDBU][OAc] was proved to be an efficient catalyst and solvent providing thioether derivatives in good to excellent yields. The ionic liquid could be reused for five times without noticeable loss of activity. The structures of compounds were confirmed by 1H‐, 13C NMR and IR spectroscopy and mass spectral analysis. A series of these pregnenolone derivatives were evaluated for their cytotoxic activity on breast cancer (MDA‐MB‐231, MCF7) cell lines.
Synthesis, Cytotoxicity, Pan‐HDAC Inhibitory Activity and Docking Study of N‐(2‐Aminophenyl)‐2‐arylquinoline‐4‐ and N‐(2‐Aminophenyl)‐2‐arylbenzo[h]quinoline‐4‐carboxamides**
Authors: Omidkhah Negar , Eisvand Farhad , Hadizadeh Farzin , Zarghi Afshin , Ghodsi Razieh
Published: August 2022

A series of new N‐(2‐aminophenyl)‐2‐arylquinoline‐4‐carboxamide and N‐(2‐aminophenyl)‐2‐arylbenzo[h]quinoline‐4‐carboxamide derivatives were designed and synthesized. The cytotoxicity of the synthesized compounds was investigated on three cell lines A549, HT‐29 and HCT116. The synthesized compounds, despite simple structures, displayed moderate to good cytotoxicity. Pan‐HDAC inhibitory activity of the synthesized compounds was evaluated on two cell lines, HT‐29 and HCT116, which displayed inhibitory activity (%) of 9.77–50.39 % on HT‐29 and 7.1–53.64 % on HCT116 cell line at concentrations of 100 μM. The compounds 11 h, 11 k, 11 l, 11 m, 12 b, 12 c and 12 e with the best cytotoxicity (%) and Pan‐HDAC inhibitory activity (%) were selected to determine IC50 values. IC50 values were calculated from 18.5–43.5 μM on HCT116 compared to 15.9 μM for CI‐994 and 35.5–75.9 μM on HT‐29 compared to 33.65 μM for CI‐994. Pan‐HDAC inhibitory activity of these compounds was more than 100 μM on HCT116 cell line except for compound 12 e (85.75±7.49 μM). Docking study of selected compounds (11 h, 11 k, 11 l, 11 m, 12 b, 12 c and 12 e) was performed on HDAC isoforms that displayed the best docking scores on sirtuins.
Reuse of Acid‐treated Waste Corn Straw for Photocatalytic Hydrogen Production
Authors: Zhou Yunlong , Lin Dongyao , Ye Xiaoyuan , Sun Bo
Published: August 2022

Using natural biomass as sacrificial agent for photocatalytic hydrogen production is a current topic of interest in the field of new energy research because it has widely available resources, is economical, and has environmental benefits. In this study, we propose a strategy for photocatalytic hydrogen production using acid‐treated corn straw and its extracts as a sacrificial agent. Furthermore, the important factors that affect the photocatalytic performance of hydrogen production are also studied. X‐ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) are employed to characterize the composition, structure, and morphology of the corn straw. High‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) is employed to characterize the composition of extracts in the filtrate obtained from acid treatment. The results from the above analyses show that cellobiose and xylose, which are extracted from corn straw, significantly improve the hydrogen production performance. The optimal hydrogen generation rates in this study reach 30.583 μmol/h in 100 mL of water; this is 72 times greater than that using pure water, 2 times greater than that using raw corn straw, and 4.5 times greater than that using acid‐treated corn straw. Also, from these characterizations and analyses, the possible photocatalytic mechanism of this system is also proposed in this paper.
Extraction‐Dominated Temperature Degradation of Population Inversion in Terahertz Quantum Cascade Lasers
Authors: Wu Yuyang , Zhang Jinchuan , Zhao Yunhao , Liang Chongyun , Liu Fengqi , Shi Yi , Che Renchao
Published: August 2022

Degraded population inversion (PI) at elevated temperature, regarded as an important temperature degradation factor in terahertz quantum cascade lasers (THz QCL), has hindered the widespread use of these devices. Herein, the mechanism of the temperature degradation of PI is investigated microscopically. It is demonstrated that the limited extraction efficiency of the extraction system dominates the decrease of PI at elevated temperatures. To be specific, the increased temperature brings about intense thermally activated longitudinal optical phonon scattering, leading to large amounts of electrons scattering to lower level state. In this case, the resonant‐phonon extraction system is incapable of depleting all the electrons from lower level states. So even though the resonant‐tunneling injection seems efficient enough to compensate the electron runoff at the upper state, the electron density at lower level state increases and the overall PI turns out lower. In addition, it is found that strong electron‐ionized donor separation at high temperature can induce level misalignment, which can stagger the optimal conditions of injection and extraction. Also, the extraction efficiency gets lower as the extraction system requires accurate coupling between several energy levels.
Mechanical properties of hybrid fiber‐reinforced concretes made with low dosages of synthetic fibers
Authors: Kazemian Maziar , Shafei Behrouz
Published: August 2022

Recent advances made in concrete fibers have made them one of the concrete's recommended ingredients, mainly to eliminate the drawbacks associated with the weakness of cementitious materials, such as concrete, in tension. The addition of fibers, however, introduces extra cost and labor requirements, while selecting an appropriate choice and dosage of fibers has still remained a standing question. To address the outlined issues, the current study investigates the development of fiber‐reinforced concrete (FRC) mixtures with a focus on achieving superior mechanical properties with a low dosage of synthetic fibers. For this purpose, three choices of macrofibers were examined. The investigations spanned four dosages of each macrofiber mixed with three dosages of a microfiber included to ensure adequate resistance to early‐age, shrinkage‐induced strains. The experiments conducted on the developed hybrid FRC mixtures systematically measured workability, as well as compressive, splitting tensile, and flexural strength properties. The test results were then paired with the micro‐scale monitoring of the bond between individual macrofibers and the concrete matrix through scanning electron microscope images. The outcome shed light on how each of the macrofibers of choice contributed to improving the FRC's mechanical properties. This paved the way to benefit from a minimum dosage of them to achieve the expected structural response, while avoiding crack formation and propagation in various applications.
Rethinking governance in international climate finance: Structural change and alternative approaches
Authors: Browne Katherine Elizabeth
Published: August 2022

International public finance plays an increasingly prominent role in global efforts to combat climate change and, as it grows, it faces a familiar challenge: governance. Global organizations not only disburse climate funding, but are also expected to ensure the “good governance” of climate programs in recipient countries. Many of these same organizations faced similar challenges in disbursing development finance. In what became known as the “institutionalist turn,” they sought to reform governance and build effective institutions in recipient countries. At first glance, the approach to governance in climate finance appears to be a continuation of these largely ineffective policies. I argue, however, that important structural differences between climate finance and development finance have been overlooked, and that these differences create space for alternatives approaches to governance. I first examine the literature on what led to the ineffectiveness of governance reforms tied to development finance, concluding that global organizations have been consistently unable to recognize and grapple with how power actually works in recipient countries, especially informal power. I then highlight three new principles underlying climate finance: (1) that it is restitution not aid, (2) that recipient countries should control resource allocation, and (3) that funding should support mitigation and adaptation. I demonstrate how each new principle has produced shifts in decision‐making authority away from contributors and toward recipient countries. I discuss how alternative approaches could emerge both from forums where recipient countries exercise newfound authority, and from experimentation on the part of multilateral organizations.

This article is categorized under:

Climate and Development > Social Justice and the Politics of Development

Policy and Governance > Multilevel and Transnational Climate Change Governance
Non-associative, Non-commutative Multi-modal Linear Logic
Authors: Blaisdell Eben , Kanovich Max , Kuznetsov Stepan L. , Pimentel Elaine , Scedrov Andre
Published: August 2022

Adding multi-modalities (calledsubexponentials) to linear logic enhances its power as a logical framework, which has been extensively used in the specification ofe.g.proof systems, programming languages and bigraphs. Initially, subexponentials allowed for classical, linear, affine or relevant behaviors. Recently, this framework was enhanced so to allow for commutativity as well. In this work, we close the cycle by considering associativity. We show that the resulting system ($$\mathsf {acLL}_\varSigma $$acLLΣ) admits the (multi)cut rule, and we prove two undecidability results for fragments/variations of$$\mathsf {acLL}_\varSigma $$acLLΣ.
Technologiegestütztes funktionelles Training in den eigenen vier Wänden
Authors: Venek Verena , Rieser Harald
Published: August 2022

Internationale wie nationale Bewegungsempfehlungen unterstreichen den Faktor Bewegung für ein gesundes Altern. Durch Technologie-gestütztes Training sollen Barrieren zur Etablierung von Trainingsroutinen im Alltag überwunden und Nutzer*innen zu regelmäßiger Aktivität angeregt werden. Daher widmet sich dieser Beitrag der Definition und Einteilung von Technologie-gestütztem Fitnesstraining in den eigenen vier Wänden. Im Rahmen des fit4AAL-Projektes wurde ein solches Trainingssystem entwickelt, erprobt und die Trainingsdaten analysiert. Das in fit4AAL entwickelte personalisierte Trainingsprogramm dient als Beispiel einer komplexen digitalen Unterstützung.
Myocardin regulates exon usage in smooth muscle cells through induction of splicing regulatory factors
Authors: Liu Li , Kryvokhyzha Dmytro , Rippe Catarina , Jacob Aishwarya , Borreguero-Muñoz Andrea , Stenkula Karin G. , Hansson Ola , Smith Christopher W. J. , Fisher Steven A. , Swärd Karl
Published: August 2022

Differentiation of smooth muscle cells (SMCs) depends on serum response factor (SRF) and its co-activator myocardin (MYOCD). The role of MYOCD for the SMC program of gene transcription is well established. In contrast, the role of MYOCD in control of SMC-specific alternative exon usage, including exon splicing, has not been explored. In the current work we identified four splicing factors (MBNL1, RBPMS, RBPMS2, and RBFOX2) that correlate with MYOCD across human SMC tissues. Forced expression of MYOCD family members in human coronary artery SMCs in vitro upregulated expression of these splicing factors. For global profiling of transcript diversity, we performed RNA-sequencing after MYOCD transduction. We analyzed alternative transcripts with three different methods. Exon-based analysis identified 1637 features with differential exon usage. For example, usage of 3´ exons in MYLK that encode telokin increased relative to 5´ exons, as did the 17 kDa telokin to 130 kDa MYLK protein ratio. Dedicated event-based analysis identified 239 MYOCD-driven splicing events. Events involving MBNL1, MCAM, and ACTN1 were among the most prominent, and this was confirmed using variant-specific PCR analyses. In support of a role for RBPMS and RBFOX2 in MYOCD-driven splicing we found enrichment of their binding motifs around differentially spliced exons. Moreover, knockdown of either RBPMS or RBFOX2 antagonized splicing events stimulated by MYOCD, including those involving ACTN1, VCL, and MBNL1. Supporting an in vivo role of MYOCD-SRF-driven splicing, we demonstrate altered Rbpms expression and splicing in inducible and SMC-specific Srf knockout mice. We conclude that MYOCD-SRF, in part via RBPMS and RBFOX2, induce a program of differential exon usage and alternative splicing as part of the broader program of SMC differentiation.
Technical, environmental, and economic feasibility investigation of an innovative dry washing process for metal degreasing
Authors: Rubino Gianluca , Marconi Marco , Baiocco Gabriele , Menna Erica
Published: August 2022

Industrial washing is essential in manufacturing and many other technological fields. Nowadays, steam washing is the most common technique. However, it involves chemical solvents which are potentially noxious for the environment and difficult to be disposed of. Therefore, there is a growing demand for alternative washing techniques that would ensure low operating costs, extensive productivity, high efficiency, environmental sustainability, good compatibility with different materials, and safe operating conditions. A fluidized bed (FB) represents a promising alternative to satisfy market requirements. In this study, a prototype of FB machine for the degreasing of pressure vessels was designed, built, and compared to the current solvent washing machine. The scope of the work is to assess the technical, environmental, and economic feasibility of a FB device for industrial washing. The analysis of variance (ANOVA) was carried out to detect the process parameters influencing the cleaning. The optimal process parameters were identified based on the experimental results. Life cycle assessment (LCA) and cost analysis were performed to evaluate environmental impacts, and operating costs. The results confirmed the validity of FB technology as an alternative to current washing techniques thanks to its higher cleanness, minor environmental impact and costs, and comparable productivity.
Bioactive secondary metabolites from marine Actinomyces sp. AW6 with an evaluation of ADME-related physicochemical properties
Authors: Agour Mohamed A. , Hamed Ahmed A. , Ghareeb Mosad A. , Abdel-Hamid Eman A. A. , Ibrahim Mohamed K.
Published: August 2022

This study was designed to evaluate the antimicrobial, antioxidant, and cytotoxic potentials of the marine actinomycetes spp. isolated from the Red Sea water, Hurghada, Egypt. Out of 80 actinomycetes isolates, one isolate AW6 was selected based on its antioxidant activity (IC50 about 5.24 µg/mL which scavenged 91% of formed DPPH free radicals) and antimicrobial potential against E. coli, S. aureus, B. subtilis, and P. aeruginosa, A. niger, and C. albicans. The strain was identified based on phenotypic and genotypic analysis, and deposited in the GenBank with accession number OK090864.1. Cultivation of the selected strain on rice, chromatographic purification, and structural elucidation led to the isolation of two compounds C1: umbelliferone, and C2: 1-methoxy-3-methyl-8-hydroxy-anthraquinone. The antimicrobial activity of the obtained compounds showed that C1 and C2 have low antibacterial activity toward S. aureus and E. coli with no pronounced activity toward P. aeruginosa, C. albicans, and A. niger. Additionally, the antioxidant activity of C1 and C2 revealed that C2 has a good antioxidant activity, with DPPH scavenging activity reaching (55.25%), followed by C1 (30.20%). Moreover, both compounds displayed anti-Gyr-B enzyme activity with IC50 value of (3.79 ± 0.21 µM) for C1, and (IC50 = 13 ± 0.71 µM) for C2. The ADME-related physicochemical properties of the obtained compound were predicted using SwissADME web tools and the ProToxii webserver was used to estimate in silico toxicity.
Nectar-Inhabiting Bacteria Affect Olfactory Responses of an Insect Parasitoid by Altering Nectar Odors
Authors: Cusumano Antonino , Bella Patrizia , Peri Ezio , Rostás Michael , Guarino Salvatore , Lievens Bart , Colazza Stefano
Published: August 2022

Floral nectar is ubiquitously colonized by a variety of microorganisms among which yeasts and bacteria are the most common. Microorganisms inhabiting floral nectar can alter several nectar traits, including nectar odor by producing microbial volatile organic compounds (mVOCs). Evidence showing that mVOCs can affect the foraging behavior of insect pollinators is increasing in the literature, whereas the role of mVOCs in altering the foraging behavior of third-trophic level organisms such as insect parasitoids is largely overlooked. Parasitoids are frequent visitors of flowers and are well known to feed on nectar. In this study, we isolated bacteria inhabiting floral nectar of buckwheat, Fagopyrum esculentum (Polygonales: Polygonaceae), to test the hypothesis that nectar bacteria affect the foraging behavior of the egg parasitoid Trissolcus basalis (Hymenoptera: Scelionidae) via changes in odors of nectar. In behavioral assays, we found that T. basalis wasps are attracted toward nectar fermented by 4 out of the 14 bacterial strains isolated, which belong to Staphylococcus epidermidis, Terrabacillus saccharophilus (both Firmicutes), Pantoea sp. (Proteobacteria), and Curtobacterium sp. (Actinobacteria). Results of chemical investigations revealed significant differences in the volatile blend composition of nectars fermented by the bacterial isolates. Our results indicate that nectar-inhabiting bacteria play an important role in the interactions between flowering plants and foraging parasitoids. These results are also relevant from an applied perspective as flowering resources, such as buckwheat, are largely used in agriculture to promote conservation biological control of insect pests.
Distinct Fringe Subtrees in Random Trees
Authors: Seelbach Benkner Louisa , Wagner Stephan
Published: August 2022

A fringe subtree of a rooted tree is a subtree induced by one of the vertices and all its descendants. We consider the problem of estimating the number of distinct fringe subtrees in random trees under a generalized notion of distinctness, which allows for many different interpretations of what “distinct” trees are. The random tree models considered are simply generated trees and families of increasing trees (recursive trees, d-ary increasing trees and generalized plane-oriented recursive trees). We prove that the order of magnitude of the number of distinct fringe subtrees (under rather mild assumptions on what ‘distinct’ means) in random trees with n vertices is $$n/\sqrt{\log n}$$

n
/

log
n

for simply generated trees and $$n/\log n$$

n
/
log
n

for increasing trees.
Development of the surface displacement during repeated rainfalls in sandy model slopes: condition for the increase of the displacement to failure
Authors: Sasahara Katsuo
Published: August 2022

It had been often reported that surface displacement showed an accelerating increase just prior to failure of a slope. Many methods for predicting failure time of a slope were proposed based on the modelling of the accelerating displacement just prior to failure. The mechanical condition which caused the accelerating displacement up to failure has been unclear until now. Measurement of 2-dimensional displacement was conducted on the model slopes under repeated rainfall, and measured data was analysed to examine the condition for accelerating surface displacement up to failure. Measured normal displacement varied with increasing surface displacement and did not converge to constant finally against the idea that the normal displacement approached to constant at steady state in direct shear condition on the slip surface parallel to the slope surface. It was supposed to be due to the difference in the direction of the slip surface to that of the slope surface. The angle α between the direction of slope surface and that of synthetic displacement on the surface, which synthesized the surface and normal displacements on the surface, was introduced to explain the variation of normal displacement with the increase of shear displacement on the slip surface in direct shear condition just prior to failure. The angle α varied at first with increasing surface displacement and converged to constant or quasi-constant just prior to failure on model slopes. It was recognized that the normal displacement converged to constant just prior to failure on the slip surface which was inclined against the slope surface. The angle α could be an indicator to judge whether the surface displacement increased significantly up to failure or not in the case that the slope failed under artificial rainfall.
Single-channel speech enhancement using implicit Wiener filter for high-quality speech communication
Authors: Jaiswal Rahul Kumar , Yeduri Sreenivasa Reddy , Cenkeramaddi Linga Reddy
Published: August 2022

Speech enables easy human-to-human communication as well as human-to-machine interaction. However, the quality of speech degrades due to background noise in the environment, such as drone noise embedded in speech during search and rescue operations. Similarly, helicopter noise, airplane noise, and station noise reduce the quality of speech. Speech enhancement algorithms reduce background noise, resulting in a crystal clear and noise-free conversation. For many applications, it is also necessary to process these noisy speech signals at the edge node level. Thus, we propose implicit Wiener filter-based algorithm for speech enhancement using edge computing system. In the proposed algorithm, a first order recursive equation is used to estimate the noise. The performance of the proposed algorithm is evaluated for two speech utterances, one uttered by a male speaker and the other by a female speaker. Both utterances are degraded by different types of non-stationary noises such as exhibition, station, drone, helicopter, airplane, and white Gaussian stationary noise with different signal-to-noise ratios. Further, we compare the performance of the proposed speech enhancement algorithm with the conventional spectral subtraction algorithm. Performance evaluations using objective speech quality measures demonstrate that the proposed speech enhancement algorithm outperforms the spectral subtraction algorithm in estimating the clean speech from the noisy speech. Finally, we implement the proposed speech enhancement algorithm, in addition to the spectral subtraction algorithm, on the Raspberry Pi 4 Model B, which is a low power edge computing device.
Effectiveness and safety of early versus late caffeine therapy in managing apnoea of prematurity among preterm infants: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Yun Won Zi , Kassab Yaman Walid , Yao Liew Mei , Khairuddin Norliyana , Ming Long Chiau , Hadi Muhammad Abdul
Published: August 2022

Background

Early administration of intravenous (IV) caffeine (initiation within 2 days of life) is an effective treatment strategy for the management of apnoea of prematurity among infants. However, the safety and effectiveness of early administration of oral caffeine treatment is not be fully established.

Aim

We aimed to compare the effectiveness and safety of early versus late caffeine therapy on preterm infants’ clinical outcomes.

Method

A retrospective matched cohort study was conducted using data of patients admitted to neonatal intensive care units of two tertiary care hospitals between January 2016 and December 2018. The clinical outcomes and mortality risk between early caffeine (initiation within 2 days of life) and late caffeine (initiation ≥ 3 days of life) were compared.

Results

Ninety-five pairs matched based on gestational age were included in the study. Compared to late initiation, preterm infants with early caffeine therapy had: a shorter duration of non-invasive mechanical ventilation (median 5 days vs. 12 days; p < 0.001); shorter length of hospital stay (median 26 days vs. 44 days; p  < 0.001); shorter duration to achieve full enteral feeding (median 5 days vs. 11 days; p < 0.001); and lower frequency of bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) (4.5% vs. 12.9%; p = 0.045). They also had a reduced risk of osteopenia of prematurity (OP) (OR 0.209; 95% CI 0.085–0.509; p = 0.001).

Conclusion

Early oral caffeine therapy can potentially improve respiratory outcomes among infants with apnoea of prematurity. However, an increase in mortality associated with early caffeine therapy requires further investigation.
Green new hiring
Authors: Darendeli Alper , Law Kelvin K. F. , Shen Michael
Published: August 2022

The mere marketing of firms as environmentally friendly does not mean that the firms are genuinely green. In this paper, we propose a new measure,Green Score, to capture firms’ investment in green human capital based on the concentration of green skills required in firms’ job postings. First, we find that firms that increase theirGreen Scorehave higher future profitability. Second, firms that increase theirGreen Scoregenerate more green patents, and those green patents are of higher quality and receive more citations. Third, traditional ratings widely used to evaluate firms’ environmental efforts do not consider firms’Green Score. Overall, our new action-based measure is simpler and less subjective and it offers a larger time-series variation than traditional disclosure-based environmental ratings.
A myth debunked. The Porosphaera globularis beads and their relation to the onset of symbolic thinking in prehistory
Authors: Berruti Gabriele Luigi Francesco , Sigari Dario , Zanasi Cristiana , Bertola Stefano , Ceresa Allison , Arzarello Marta
Published: August 2022

Because of their inherent symbolic significance, personal ornaments gained a key role in the scientific debate regarding the emergence and evolution of symbolic behaviour; the presumed Acheulean beads discovered in the nineteenth century in northern Europe’s sites are considered crucial evidence of this. The fossils of the sponge Porosphaera globularis, because of their morphological characteristics, have been interpreted by some archaeologists as the starting point of this evolutionary path. In this work, the largest collection of Porosphaera globularis specimens is analysed, after remaining unpublished to this day. This was originally found in the French site of Saint-Acheul and preserved at the Civic Museums of Modena. An integrated analysis was carried out to understand whether these fossils were indeed used as beads; results revealed that they were actually not used as ornaments. This suggests the importance of finding strong arguments and evidence to support theories about the development of cognitive abilities in the genus Homo.
Touching data with PropellerHand
Authors: Achberger Alexander , Heyen Frank , Vidackovic Kresimir , Sedlmair Michael
Published: August 2022

Immersive analytics often takes place in virtual environments which promise the users immersion. To fulfill this promise, sensory feedback, such as haptics, is an important component, which is however not well supported yet. Existing haptic devices are often expensive, stationary, or occupy the user’s hand, preventing them from grasping objects or using a controller. We propose PropellerHand, an ungrounded hand-mounted haptic device with two rotatable propellers, that allows exerting forces on the hand without obstructing hand use. PropellerHand is able to simulate feedback such as weight and torque by generating thrust up to 11 N in 2-DOF and a torque of 1.87 Nm in 2-DOF. Its design builds on our experience from quantitative and qualitative experiments with different form factors and parts. We evaluated our prototype through a qualitative user study in various VR scenarios that required participants to manipulate virtual objects in different ways, while changing between torques and directional forces. Results show that PropellerHand improves users’ immersion in virtual reality. Additionally, we conducted a second user study in the field of immersive visualization to investigate the potential benefits of PropellerHand there.

Graphical abstract
Destinations of third-generation Mythimna separata (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) moths in Jilin and its effects on population genetic diversity
Authors: Sun Wei , Su Qianfu , Yang Wei , Zhou Jiachun , Gao Yuebo
Published: August 2022

Third-generation oriental armyworm larvae,Mythimna separata (Walker) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), have caused considerable economic losses in Jilin. Understanding the occurrence, regularity and return movement of third-generation adults is crucial for pest forecasting. The study was conducted using systemic monitoring, radar observations and molecular markers from 2015 to 2019. The main results are as follows: (1) third-generation moths were regularly captured from late August to late September. These moths have been attributed to local emergence and were identified as an “emigration population.” Wind speed and temperature were advantageous for moth migration, and advantageous northeasterly winds account for 9.6% of the total. Radar studies determined that the migrant flying height was mainly below 600 m. Moths migrated over a range of directions, including their return movements. Forward trajectories predicted that the destination regions of the Korean Peninsula, the Russian Far East, and northern China were unfavorable for survival. (2) A total of 29 haplotypes were detected. There were unique haplotypes between two sampling years. The haplotype analysis indicated similar content in the two sampling years. The haplotype diversity indices appear to have been maintained. Overall, our findings indicate that the moths did not make a successful return flight, but the genetic diversity was unaffected.
Groups as automorphisms of dessins d’enfants
Authors: Cañas Alejandro , Hidalgo Rubén A. , Turiel Francisco Javier , Viruel Antonio
Published: August 2022

It is known that every finite group can be represented as the full group of automorphisms of a suitable compact dessin d’enfant. In this paper, we give a constructive and easy proof that the same holds for any countable group by considering non-compact dessins. Moreover, we show that any tame action of a countable group is so realisable.