bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Whose line is it anyway? Moose (Alces alces) response to linear features
Authors: Finnegan Laura , Hebblewhite Mark , Pigeon Karine E.
Published: August 2023

Linear features are pervasive across the boreal forest of Canada, negatively impacting several wildlife species. Understanding how wildlife responds to different types and characteristics of linear features is necessary for coordinated landscape restoration. Currently, linear feature restoration is focused on recovering threatened woodland caribou (Rangifer tarandus) which may have unintended impacts on other boreal species like moose (Alces alces). Understanding how moose respond to different linear features can help ensure restoration is targeted and effective. We used GPS data from seven moose collected between 2008 and 2010 to investigate response to linear features and to determine how moose response was influenced by characteristics of linear features like the surrounding habitat and regeneration. At the landscape scale, moose selected areas closer to seismic lines when they were in areas with lower densities of seismic lines and higher densities of harvest blocks and wildfires. This response was stronger during winter. Moose selected areas closer to pipelines when they were in areas with lower densities of other linear features, harvest blocks, and wildfires and were indifferent to roads at the population‐level. At the fine scale, during winter, moose selected areas closer to seismic lines regardless of vegetation height or the surrounding habitat, but were indifferent to seismic lines during summer, and were indifferent to roads and pipelines during summer and winter. Combined, our results suggest that there are characteristics of seismic lines which make them attractive to moose regardless of the regeneration height on the seismic lines, providing further evidence that effective linear feature restoration will need to address the fact that linear features increase landscape permeability and provide forage for multiple boreal wildlife species. Our results also further illustrate the importance of considering how linear feature restoration efforts focused on caribou may shift the distribution of other boreal wildlife species. Ultimately, conservation efforts for threatened species should recognize that conservation efforts focused on one species may have unintended consequences for interacting species.
Tibetan tea reduces obesity brought on by a high‐fat diet and modulates gut flora in mice
Authors: He Gang , Chen Tangcong , Huang Lifen , Zhang Yiyuan , Feng Yanjiao , Liu Qijun , Yin Xiaojing , Qu Shaokui , Yang Chen , Wan Jianghong , Liang Li , Yan Jun , Liu Wei
Published: August 2023

It has been shown that Tibetan tea (TT) inhibits obesity and controls lipid metabolism. The fundamental processes by which TT prevents obesity are yet entirely unknown. Consequently, this research aimed to ascertain if TT may prevent obesity by modifying the gut flora. Our research demonstrated that TT prevented mice from gaining weight and accumulating fat due to the high‐fat diet (HFD), decreased levels of blood total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), and low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C), and raised levels of high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL‐C). Adipogenesis‐related genes such as acetyl‐Coenzyme A carboxylase 1 (ACC1, LOC107476), fatty acid synthase (Fas, LOC14104), sterol regulatory element‐binding protein‐1c (SREBP‐1c, LOC20787), CCAAT/enhancer‐binding protein α (C/EBPα, LOC12606), stearoyl‐CoA desaturase 1 (SCD1, LOC20249), and peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor γ (PPARγ, LOC19016) had their expression downregulated by lowering the Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes (F/B) ratio and controlling the number of certain gut bacteria. TT also alleviated HFD‐induced abnormalities of the gut microbiota. The Muribaculaceae, Lachnospiraceae NK4A136_group, Alistipes, and Odoribacter families were identified as the major beneficial gut microorganisms using Spearman's correlation analysis. Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) demonstrated that TT's anti‐obesity and gut microbiota‐modulating benefits might be transmitted to mice on an HFD, demonstrating that one of TT's targets for preventing obesity is the gut microbiota. TT also increased the amount of short‐chain fatty acids (SCFAs) in the feces, including acetic, propionic, and butyric acids. These results indicate the possible development of TT as a prebiotic to combat obesity and associated disorders. These results suggest that TT may act as a prebiotic against obesity and its associated diseases.
An image dataset of fusulinid foraminifera generated with the aid of deep learning
Authors: Huang Hanhui , Shi Yukun , Chen Qin , Xu Huiqing , Song Sicong , Shi Yujie , Shen Furao , Fan Junxuan
Published: August 2023

Fusulinid foraminifera are among the most common microfossils of the Late Palaeozoic and act as key fossils for stratigraphic correlation, paleogeographic and paleoenvironmental indication, and evolutionary studies of marine life. Accurate and efficient identification forms the basis of such research involving fusulinids but is limited by the lack of digitized image datasets. This article presents the first large image dataset of fusulinids containing 2,400 images of individual samples subjected to 16 genera of all six fusulinid families and labelled to species level. These images were collected from the literature and our unpublished samples through an automatic segmentation procedure implementing BlendMask, a deep learning model. The dataset shows promise for the efficient accumulation of fossil images through automated procedures and will facilitate taxonomists in future morphologic and systematic studies.
Indications for sentinel lymph node biopsy in node‐negative oral cancers
Authors: Ozawa Taijiro , Oze Isao , Matsuzuka Takashi , Sasaki Eiichi , Yokoyama Junkichi , Sano Yoshie , Tomifuji Masayuki , Araki Koji , Kogashiwa Yasunao , Tateya Ichiro , Agena Shinya , Sakashita Tomohiro , Tsuzuki Hidenori , Terada Hoshino , Suzuki Hidenori , Nishikawa Daisuke , Beppu Shintarou , Matoba Takuma , Mukoyama Nobuaki , Oguri Keisuke , Hasegawa Yasuhisa
Published: August 2023

Background

We aimed to define the indications for sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB), the third option for cervical treatment in oral cancer with negative cervical lymph nodes.

Methods

The greatest depth of invasion (DOI) and long diameter (LD) of the primary site were used as exposures. SLN metastasis was considered the outcome.

Results

In three trials conducted between 2009 and 2016, 158 patients were eligible and reassigned to this study group. The scatterplot based on the respective values of DOI and LD would eventually be divided into three sections. In cases of sections T1, T2, and T3, the proportions of SLN metastasis positivity were 21.3%, 35.3%, and 51.2%, respectively. In certain cases of T1 with 2 mm < DOI ≤ 5 mm and 8 mm < LD ≤ 20 mm, the proportion of SLN metastasis positivity was 40.9%.

Conclusions

SLNB‐navigated or assisted neck dissection can be added as an effective procedure for N0 neck control.
Vaccination is the most effective and best way to avoid the disease of COVID‐19
Authors: Lotfi Hadi , Mazar Mina G. , Ei Negar M. H. , Fahim Mostafa , Yazdi Nafiseh S.
Published: August 2023

Most of the vaccines that are effective against SARS‐CoV‐2 have used the following functional strategies: inactivated viruses, live attenuated viruses, viral vector‐based vaccines, subunit vaccines, recombinant proteins, and DNA/RNA vaccines. Among the vaccines that stimulate the host's immune system with the help of DNA are: undergoing Phase 2/3 trials including INO‐4800 (International Vaccine Institute; Inovio Pharmaceuticals), Symvivo, Canada‐COVID19 (AnGes, Inc.); GX‐19 (Genexine, Inc.). BNT162b2 and mRNA‐1273 vaccines were made by BioNTech/Pfizer/Fosun Pharma group and Moderna/NIAID group, respectively, which are considered as types of RNA vaccines. Vaccines that are based on the viral vector are AstraZeneca, Sputonium, and Johnson‐Jensen. Among the inactive viral vaccines, the following can be mentioned: CoronaVac (Sinovac) WIBP vaccine (Wuhan Institute of Biological Products, Sinopharm), BBIBPCorV (Beijing Institute of Biological Products, Sinopharm), BBV152/Covaxin (Bharat Biotech, ICMR, National Institute of Virology) And among the protein‐based/subunit vaccines, the following can be counted: NVX‐CoV2373: (Novavax); SCB‐2019 vaccine (Clover Biopharmaceuticals AUS Pty Ltd.); Covax‐19 (GeneCure Biotechnologies; Vaxine Pty Ltd.) mRNA vaccines, viral vector vaccines, and protein subunit vaccines cannot cause disease because these vaccines stimulate the immune system to produce antibodies against virus proteins instead of the virus itself (or its antigen). MRNA vaccines increase SARS‐CoV‐2 proteins and ultimately stimulate the production of T and B lymphocytes. The epidemic of HCoVs and their destructive and harmful effects on life has caused the scientific community to seek the production of an effective and efficient vaccine before its catastrophic release. We all need to know that none of us will be healed until the other is healed. The purpose of this review article is to present a selection of existing knowledge in the field of fighting and preventing the coronavirus.
Osteocyte RANKL Drives Bone Resorption in Mouse Ligature-Induced Periodontitis
Authors: Kittaka Mizuho , Yoshimoto Tetsuya , Levitan Marcus E , Urata Rina , Choi Roy B , Teno Yayoi , Xie Yixia , Kitase Yukiko , Prideaux Matthew , Dallas Sarah L , Robling Alexander G , Ueki Yasuyoshi
Published: August 2023

Mouse ligature-induced periodontitis (LIP) has been used to study bone loss in periodontitis. However, the role of osteocytes in LIP remains unclear. Furthermore, there is no consensus on the choice of alveolar bone parameters and time points to evaluate LIP. Here, we investigated the dynamics of changes in osteoclastogenesis and bone volume (BV) loss in LIP over 14 days. Time-course analysis revealed that osteoclast induction peaked on days 3 and 5, followed by the peak of BV loss on day 7. Notably, BV was restored by day 14. The bone formation phase after the bone resorption phase was suggested to be responsible for the recovery of bone loss. Electron microscopy identified bacteria in the osteocyte lacunar space beyond the periodontal ligament (PDL) tissue. We investigated how osteocytes affect bone resorption of LIP and found that mice lacking receptor activator of NF-κB ligand (RANKL), predominantly in osteocytes, protected against bone loss in LIP, whereas recombination activating 1 (RAG1)-deficient mice failed to resist it. These results indicate that T/B cells are dispensable for osteoclast induction in LIP and that RANKL from osteocytes and mature osteoblasts regulates bone resorption by LIP. Remarkably, mice lacking the myeloid differentiation primary response gene 88 (MYD88) did not show protection against LIP-induced bone loss. Instead, osteocytic cells expressed nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain containing 1 (NOD1), and primary osteocytes induced significantly higher Rankl than primary osteoblasts when stimulated with a NOD1 agonist. Taken together, LIP induced both bone resorption and bone formation in a stage-dependent manner, suggesting that the selection of time points is critical for quantifying bone loss in mouse LIP. Pathogenetically, the current study suggests that bacterial activation of osteocytes via NOD1 is involved in the mechanism of osteoclastogenesis in LIP. The NOD1-RANKL axis in osteocytes may be a therapeutic target for bone resorption in periodontitis. © 2023 The Authors. Journal of Bone and Mineral Research published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR).
Detection of Cladosporium spinulosum on an engraving by Rembrandt and susceptibility profile to eco‐friendly antifungal treatments
Authors: Boniek Douglas , Batista dos Santos Antônio Fernando , de Resende Stoianoff Maria Aparecida
Published: August 2023

Interdisciplinary studies on cultural heritage artworks provide efficient solutions to control fungal growth and the negative effects of biodeterioration. In this study, we aimed to identify the population of filamentous fungi colonizing an engraving by the Dutch painter Rembrandt, whose conservation status was compromised and showed visible stains of biodeterioration. Microbiological techniques, such as cultivation‐dependent approaches and molecular biology, have been used to identify fungal populations. In addition, the anaerobic atmosphere technique and eco‐friendly antifungal agents, such as essential oils (EOs) of Curcuma longa, Thymus vulgaris, and Melaleuca alternifolia, were tested against the metabolically active fungal population Cladoposporium spinulosum. Furthermore, in vitro assays revealed that the interaction between the fungal strains and EO was positive, inhibiting the growth of these fungi, and the EOs from T. vulgaris and M. alternifolia showed low minimum inhibitory concentration values. Exposure to anaerobic conditions for 35 days was effective in the total elimination of isolated fungal strains. In conclusion, this study demonstrated the effectiveness of a nondestructive technique for artwork on engraving colonized by fungal strains and using EO as an alternative to toxic antifungals used in conventional treatments in artworks. Thus, this interdisciplinary study involving applied microbiology and botanical and preventive conservation presents a tool to control microbial growth while maintaining artwork integrity.
Antarctic sea ice variability linked to three dipole modes of subtropical sea surface temperature in the Southern Hemisphere
Authors: Yu Lejiang , Zhong Shiyuan , Sun Bo
Published: August 2023

Based on statistical analyses of gridded data over the past four decades (1979–2020), we examined the teleconnection between the variability of the Antarctic sea ice and the leading modes of subtropical sea surface temperature (SST) variability known as the Indian Ocean subtropical dipole (IOSD), the South Atlantic subtropical dipole (SASD) and the South Pacific subtropical dipole (SPSD). We show that the pattern and strength of the teleconnection differ with the SST modes. For each mode, while the regional distributions of significant Antarctic sea ice anomalies are broadly similar throughout the year, the areal extent and the magnitudes of the anomalies display a strong seasonality. Larger areas and magnitudes of significant sea ice anomalies occur in austral winter for the SASD, autumn and spring for the SPSD and non‐summer seasons for the IOSD. We demonstrate that the spatial and seasonal variations of the sea ice anomalies associated with each of the three subtropical SST variability modes are largely consistent with the patterns of the anomalous temperature advection and sea ice transport by the anomalous atmospheric circulations induced by planetary wavetrains that are triggered by anomalous convective activities over different regions of subtropical oceans. These relationships between subtropical SST modes and Antarctic sea ice may serve as a valuable reference for predicting seasonal to interannual scale variations of Antarctic sea ice concentrations across each austral season.
Role and impact of surfactants in carbon nanotube dispersions and sorting
Authors: Yang HeeBong , Neal Luke , Flores Elijah Earl , Adronov Alex , Kim Na Young
Published: August 2023

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are proving to be versatile nanomaterials that exhibit superior and attractive electrical, optical, chemical, physical, and mechanical properties. Different kinds of CNTs exist, and their associated properties have been actively explored and widely exploited from fundamental studies to practical applications. Obtaining high‐quality CNTs in large volumes is desirable, especially for scalable electronic, photonic, chemical, and mechanical systems. At present, abundant but random CNTs are synthesized by various growth methods including arc discharge, chemical vapor deposition, and molecular beam epitaxy. An economical way to secure pristine CNTs is to disperse the raw soot of CNTs in solutions, from which purified CNTs are collected via sorting methods. Individual CNTs are generally hydrophobic, not readily soluble, requiring an agent, known as a surfactant to facilitate effective dispersions. Furthermore, the combination of surfactants, polymers, DNA, and other additives can enhance the purity of specific types of CNTs in confidence dispersions. With highly‐pure CNTs, designated functional devices are built to demonstrate improved performance. This review surveys and highlights the essential roles and significant impacts of surfactants in dispersing and sorting CNTs.
Rapeseed plant: biostimulation effects of plant growth‐promoting Actinobacteria on metabolites and antioxidant defense system under elevated CO2 conditions
Authors: Hagagy Nashwa , AbdElgawad Hamada
Published: August 2023

BACKGROUND

The present study set out to evaluate the potential of plant growth‐promoting Actinobacteria (PGPB) in improving some physiological and molecular parameters of rapeseed (Brassica napus L.) plants under ambient and elevated CO2 conditions by assessing some nitrogen‐ and sulfur‐containing metabolites, antioxidant defense system and antimicrobial activity. With this aim, a pot experiment was conducted where the rapeseed plants were treated with Actinobacterium sp. strain NCO2 (OQ451136) and were grown under two levels of air CO2 concentrations: ambient CO2 (aCO2, 410 μmol CO2 mol−1); and elevated CO2 (eCO2, 710 μmol CO2 mol−1).

RESULTS

There was an increase in the photosynthetic pigments (+35–80%) and photosynthesis rate (+20–34%) in PGPB‐treated plants under eCO2 compared to control plants, resulting in further growth and biomass production (+53–294%). These results were associated with an enhancement in the content of total antioxidant capacity (+15–128%), polyphenols (+21–126%) and α‐tocopherols (+20–138%) under both eCO2 and PGPB application (in combination or individual application), while only the combined treatment (eCO2 + PGPB) led to a significantly higher accumulation of antioxidant enzymes (+88–197%), β‐tocopherols (+177%) and flavonoids (+155%). Moreover, nitrogen‐ and sulfur‐containing metabolites (glucosinolates and amino acids) were improved by PGPB treatment and/or CO2 levels, in which PGPB increased the amino acid‐derived glucosinolate induction by eCO2 with low levels of effective sulforaphane.

CONCLUSIONS

Therefore, the interaction effects of beneficial Actinobacteria and eCO2 are expected to boost the level of antioxidant molecules and to have a helpful role in improving plant biomass and adaptability to complicated climate changes in the future. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Cleft Lip and Cleft Palate
Authors: Tonni Gabriele , Sepulveda Waldo
Published: August 2023

Orofacial clefts are one of the most common congenital malformations. The prenatal diagnosis is often made in the second trimester of pregnancy as result of ultrasound examination of the midface on coronal and axial planes. However, the diagnosis in the first trimester is elusive due to the small size of the facial structures and technical limitations present at this early gestational age. In this Commentary, we suggest the routine systematic ultrasound identification of easy‐to‐obtain landmarks to improve the detection of cleft lip and cleft palate in the first trimester. These include, but are not limited to, visualization of the primary palate using the coronal plane of the face looking for disruption at the base of the retronasal triangle, and visualization of the palate using the sagittal plane looking for the maxillary gap and loss of the superimposed line. Early prenatal detection of orofacial clefts would allow a more detailed search for associated chromosomal anomalies or genetic syndromes.
Developmental Process and Symmetry of Fetal Sulci in the Mesial Area Assessed by Ultrasound
Authors: Zhu Rong , Chen Junya , Huang Ruina , Jing Baihua , Fan Lixin , Wei Shuli , Feng Chunli , Zhou Yanxia , Hou Xinlin
Published: August 2023

Objective

We aimed to investigate the progression of cortical development in Chinese population and to determine the rate of isolated asymmetric cortical development. We also explored the outcomes of these fetuses and determined whether cortical asymmetry represents normal individual physiological variation.

Methods

Our observational cohort study included 456 healthy singleton pregnant women who visited Peking University First Hospital between September 2020 and December 2021. We evaluated the progression and symmetry of the parieto‐occipital sulcus, calcarine sulcus, and cingulate sulcus using a scoring system during routine fetal ultrasound examinations. The outcomes of the included fetuses after birth were assessed using the Ages and Stages Questionnaire, Third Edition (ASQ‐3).

Results

The median gestational ages at which the parieto‐occipital, calcarine, and cingulate sulci reached grade 1 were 22, 22, and 26 weeks, respectively. Among 456 included fetuses, 426 showed symmetric cortical development and 30 showed asymmetric cortical development during ultrasound examination. Fetuses with asymmetric cortical development underwent ‘catch‐up growth’ and developed to the same grade in 2–6 weeks. All fetuses with symmetric or asymmetric cortical development had normal neurodevelopment after birth according to ASQ‐3 assessment.

Conclusion

The gestational age at which the parieto‐occipital, calcarine, and cingulate sulci can be detected using ultrasound varies in different studies. Racial differences may be present in cortical development. Normal fetuses may physiologically have mildly asymmetric cortical development in the mesial area.
Preparation of Multi‐Functional Quaternary Ammonium Chitosan/Surfactin Hydrogel and its Application in Wound Management
Authors: Song Yanbing , Xing Jin , Ren Li , Xu Xia , Han Donghua , Xu Hao , Zhao Liang , Yu Yang , Wang Shige , Liu Chaobo
Published: August 2023

Hydrogel with a 3D network structure can cover the wound to stop the bleeding and support the host tissue infiltration and integration. In this study, an antibacterial hydrogel with hemostasis and the ability to promote wound healing is proposed. This hydrogel comprised surfactin, polyvinylpyrrolidone, and methacrylic anhydride (MA) grafted quaternary ammonium chitosan (CS‐MA). The hydrogel formation is triggered by the ultraviolet‐initiated polymerization of CS‐MA, while the surfactin is complexed with the hydrogel through hydrogen bonding interaction. The results showed that this hydrogel is an adhesive hydrogel with shape adaptability, which can cover the wound surface and promote contact between the hydrogel and the wound surface. More importantly, this hydrogel can simulate the microenvironment of the primary extracellular matrix and increase collagen deposition, and inflammatory factor transformation. The designing of such a multi‐functional hydrogel is expected to provide a novel approach to promoting the healing of wounds.
Local government competition, decision‐making behavior, and green land use total factor productivity: Evidence from cities in China
Authors: Ding Tao , Zhang Yueqi , Zhou Peng , Zhao Xin
Published: August 2023

Land is a finite and non‐renewable natural resource. The competitive decisions of local governments will have a profound impact on the green and efficient use of land resources. This paper examines the nonlinear effect of local government competition on green land use total factor productivity (GLTFP) using data from 171 Chinese cities from 2006 to 2019. The results show that (1) there is an inverted U‐shaped relationship between the local government competition and GLTFP, and this conclusion holds after addressing a series of endogeneity concerns. (2) Local government competition can affect the inverted U‐shaped relationship between GLTFP through the misallocation of land resources. (3) The impact of local government competition on GLTFP is more prominent in first‐tier and new first‐tier cities in China and cities in western China.
DNA Methylation Age Acceleration Is Not Associated with Age of Onset in Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Gaare Johannes J. , Brügger Kim , Nido Gonzalo S. , Tzoulis Charalampos
Published: August 2023

Background

Epigenetic clocks using DNA methylation (DNAm) to estimate biological age have become popular tools in the study of neurodegenerative diseases. Notably, several recent reports have shown a strikingly similar inverse relationship between accelerated biological aging, as measured by DNAm, and the age of onset of several neurodegenerative disorders, including Parkinson's disease (PD). Common to all of these studies is that they were performed without control subjects and using the exact same measure of accelerated aging: DNAm age minus chronological age.

Objective

We aimed to assess the validity of these findings in PD, using the same dataset as in the original study, blood DNAm data from the Parkinson's Progression Markers Initiative cohort, but also including control samples in the analyses.

Methods

We replicated the analyses and findings of the previous study and then reanalyzed the dataset incorporating control samples to account for underlying age‐related biases.

Results

Our reanalysis shows that there is no correlation between age of onset and DNAm age acceleration. Conversely, there is a pattern of overestimating DNAm age in younger and underestimating DNAm age in older individuals in the dataset that entirely explains the previously reported association.

Conclusions

Our findings refute the previously reported inverse relationship between DNAm age acceleration and age of onset in PD. We show that these findings are fully accounted for by an expected over/underestimation of DNAm age in younger/older individuals. Furthermore, this effect is likely to be responsible for nearly identical findings reported in other neurodegenerative diseases. © 2023 The Authors. Movement Disorders published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
Acceptance of encapsulated porcine islet xenotransplantation by patients and doctors in the US
Authors: Matsumoto Shinichi , Yamamoto Noriaki
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Previously, we performed encapsulated porcine islet xenotransplantation for the treatment of unstable type 1 diabetic patients and demonstrated the clinical benefit and safety in New Zealand and Argentina. Conversely, the treatment of type 1 diabetes differs from country to country; therefore, understanding the acceptance of the new treatment by patients and medical doctors in each country is important. In this study, a survey study of the acceptance of the encapsulated porcine islet xenotransplantation by the type 1 diabetic patients and medical doctors in the US was conducted.

Methods

The questionnaires consisted of the acceptance of the encapsulated porcine islet xenotransplantation without immunosuppression, and the reasons for selecting and not selecting. Moreover, we conducted a sub‐analysis among patient groups regarding severe hypoglycemia and HbA1c levels.

Results

The majority of patients and doctors (patients, 63.8%; doctors, 70.0%) had a positive opinion to accept this treatment. A significantly high number of doctors selected no immunosuppression for selecting this treatment (patients, 35.5%; doctors, 53.6%; p < 0.001), and a significantly high number of patients selected not insulin free for not selecting this treatment (patients 20.4%, doctors 12.4%, p < 0.05). The high HbA1c group had the highest ‘definitely’ accept rate, which was significantly higher than those of the other HbA1c groups (High HbA1c group, 50.0%; other HbA1c groups, 22.2%; p < 0.05).

Conclusion

In conclusion, the majority of US patients and doctors had positive opinions to accept the encapsulated porcine islet xenotransplantation. Type 1 diabetic patients with high HbA1c levels had the highest ‘definitely’ acceptance rates.
An ultrathin triple‐band absorber for tuneable THz bio‐sensing
Authors: Deekonda Laxmi Narayana , Sahu Sanjay K. , Panda Asit Kumar , Ranjan Ratnesh , Khera Shelej
Published: August 2023

In this paper, a multimode terahertz absorber is implemented using an ultrathin silicon ring with varying multimodal resonance. The rectangular silicon ring is providing three resonances with creating electromagnetic dipoles. The altering of these resonances is explicitly controlled with the help of a circular graphene ring. The graphene ring is used in the centre for tenability and to achieve perfect absorption. An equivalent circuit model is also presented and verified for the proposed structure. The design is intended to measure the glucose percentage in water. In addition, this can be used as a biosensor for the detection of malaria parasite percentage in water. A few important parameters like sensitivity and quality factors are considered to evaluate the performance of the said design. The sensitivity with analyte thickness is found to be 0.445 THz TU−1, 0.4255 THz TU−1, and 0.4305 THz TU−1. The corresponding quality factor is noted for the lower, middle, and upper bands as 235, 653, and 264 respectively. Further, the sensitivity and quality factors were measured just by changing the refractive index. The new estimated values are 0.480 THz RIU−1, 0.403 THz RIU−1, and 0.562 THz RIU−1 and corresponding quality factors are 203, 555, and 261 for lower, middle, and upper bands respectively. The design is also expected to flourish as a polarization‐insensitive absorber.
The lncOb rs10487505 polymorphism impairs insulin sensitivity and glucose tolerance in children and adolescents with obesity
Authors: Umano Giuseppina Rosaria , Cirillo Grazia , Sanchez Gianmaria , Rondinelli Giulia , Foderini Maria Vittoria , Ferrara Serena , Di Sessa Anna , Marzuillo Pierluigi , Papparella Alfonso , Santoro Nicola , Miraglia del Giudice Emanuele
Published: August 2023

Objective

Leptin plays a key role in the regulation of body weight and other endocrine systems. Recently, impairment of leptin gene transcription due to genetic variations in a long noncoding RNA (lncOb) has been described. This retrospective study aims to characterize the clinical and metabolic phenotype of children and adolescents with obesity who were homozygous for the lncOb rs10487505 leptin lowering allele.

Methods

Enrolled children underwent an anthropometrical evaluation, biochemical assessment, and genotyping for lncOb rs10487505. Plasma leptin levels were assessed in 150 participants. A total of 434 patients were included and divided into two groups according to rs10487505 recessive inheritance (CC vs. GG/GC).

Results

Children who were homozygous for the C allele showed higher fasting insulin (p = 0.01), homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (p = 0.01), lower whole‐body insulin sensitivity index (p = 0.02), and lower disposition index (p = 0.03). Moreover, CC patients presented with a higher prevalence of prediabetes (9.3% vs. 3.4%, p = 0.04) and a 2.9‐fold (95% CI: 1.1–7.9, p = 0.04) higher risk of prediabetes compared with G‐carriers independently from confounders. Leptin plasma levels were significantly lower in the CC group (p = 0.002). Hormone levels correlated with BMI z score (r = 0.19, p = 0.04), fasting insulin (r = −0.34, p < 0.0001), homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (r = −0.33, p < 0.0001), and disposition index (r = 0.20, p = 0.04).

Conclusions

The lncOb rs10487505 polymorphism affects leptin circulating levels, worsens insulin resistance, and heightens the risk of prediabetes in children and adolescents with obesity.
Leveraging behavioral genetics methods to accelerate obesity protection discovery: the Augmented T0 Discordant Sibling Design
Authors: Faith Myles S. , Epstein Leonard H.
Published: August 2023

Researchers have been reimagining strategies to accelerate the pacing of translational science progress so that basic T0 discoveries can be converted more efficiently to T1 to T4 interventions. This is certainly true in the context of childhood obesity prevention given its complex etiology and heterogeneity. Here it is submitted that behavioral genetics methods, which have transformed the understanding of childhood obesity risk, have unrealized potential to accelerate translational science into childhood obesity protection (i.e., maintaining healthy weight status despite the presence of reliable risk factors). To illustrate this opportunity, this Perspective proposes the Augmented T0 Discordant Sibling Design (DSD+), which leverages the traditional discordant siblings design by recruiting obesity‐discordant siblings specifically from families in which parents have obesity and thereby confer heightened risk. This one modification of a tried‐and‐true behavior genetics design arguably opens a fascinating door of inquiry, illustrating the broader point. Moreover, as most disorders are familial, the DSD+ may stimulate ideas beyond obesity protection.
Initial weight loss and early intervention adherence predict long‐term weight loss during the Promoting Successful Weight Loss in Primary Care in Louisiana lifestyle intervention
Authors: Höchsmann Christoph , Martin Corby K. , Apolzan John W. , Dorling James L. , Newton Robert L. , Denstel Kara D. , Mire Emily F. , Johnson William D. , Zhang Dachuan , Arnold Connie L. , Davis Terry C. , Fonseca Vivian , Thethi Tina K. , Lavie Carl J. , Springgate Benjamin , Katzmarzyk Peter T. ,   for the PROPEL Research Group
Published: August 2023

Objective

This study tested whether initial weight change (WC), self‐weighing, and adherence to the expected WC trajectory predict longer‐term WC in an underserved primary‐care population with obesity.

Methods

Data from the intervention group (n = 452; 88% women; 74% Black; BMI 37.3 kg/m2 [SD: 4.6]) of the Promoting Successful Weight Loss in Primary Care in Louisiana trial were analyzed. Initial (2‐, 4‐, and 8‐week) percentage WC was calculated from baseline clinic weights and daily at‐home weights. Weights were considered adherent if they were on the expected WC trajectory (10% at 6 months with lower [7.5%] and upper [12.5%] bounds). Linear mixed‐effects models tested whether initial WC and the number of daily and adherent weights predicted WC at 6, 12, and 24 months.

Results

Percentage WC during the initial 2, 4, and 8 weeks predicted percentage WC at 6 (R2 = 0.15, R2 = 0.28, and R2 = 0.50), 12 (R2 = 0.11, R2 = 0.19, and R2 = 0.32), and 24 (R2 = 0.09, R2 = 0.11, and R2 = 0.16) months (all p < 0.01). Initial daily and adherent weights were significantly associated with WC as individual predictors, but they only marginally improved predictions beyond initial weight loss alone in multivariable models.

Conclusions

These results highlight the importance of initial WC for predicting long‐term WC and show that self‐weighing and adherence to the expected WC trajectory can improve WC prediction.
Unleashing the potential of AI for pathology: challenges and recommendations
Authors: Asif Amina , Rajpoot Kashif , Graham Simon , Snead David , Minhas Fayyaz , Rajpoot Nasir
Published: August 2023

Computational pathology is currently witnessing a surge in the development of AI techniques, offering promise for achieving breakthroughs and significantly impacting the practices of pathology and oncology. These AI methods bring with them the potential to revolutionize diagnostic pipelines as well as treatment planning and overall patient care. Numerous peer‐reviewed studies reporting remarkable performance across diverse tasks serve as a testimony to the potential of AI in the field. However, widespread adoption of these methods in clinical and pre‐clinical settings still remains a challenge. In this review article, we present a detailed analysis of the major obstacles encountered during the development of effective models and their deployment in practice. We aim to provide readers with an overview of the latest developments, assist them with insights into identifying some specific challenges that may require resolution, and suggest recommendations and potential future research directions. © 2023 The Authors. The Journal of Pathology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
The clinical terrain of immunotherapies in heterogeneous pancreatic cancer: unravelling challenges and opportunities
Authors: Herpels Melanie , Ishihara Jun , Sadanandam Anguraj
Published: August 2023

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is the most common and aggressive type of pancreatic cancer and has abysmal survival rates. In the past two decades, immunotherapeutic agents with success in other cancer types have gradually been trialled against PDACs at different stages of cancer progression, either as a monotherapy or in combination with chemotherapy. Unfortunately, to this day, chemotherapy still prolongs the survival rates the most and is prescribed in clinics despite the severe side effects in other cancer types. The low success rates of immunotherapy against PDAC have been attributed most frequently to its complex and multi‐faceted tumour microenvironment (TME) and low mutational burden. In this review, we give a comprehensive overview of the immunotherapies tested in PDAC clinical trials thus far, their limitations, and potential explanations for their failure. We also discuss the existing classification of heterogenous PDACs into cancer, cancer‐associated fibroblast, and immune subtypes and their potential opportunity in patient selection as a form of personalisation of PDAC immunotherapy. © 2023 The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
Prenatal diagnosis of cleft lip and/or palate: What do we tell prospective parents?
Authors: Wilkes Courtney , Graetz Melissa , Downie Lilian , Bethune Michael , Chong David
Published: August 2023

Cleft lip and/or palate (CL/CP) is the most common congenital craniofacial anomaly and parents often ask, “how did this happen?” Patients and families may benefit from access to a multidisciplinary team (MDT) from prenatal diagnosis into early adulthood. Multiple factors can contribute to the development of a cleft. We discuss the epidemiology and risk factors that increase the likelihood of having a newborn with a cleft. The purpose of this article is to review the prenatal investigations involved in the diagnosis and workup of these patients in addition to postpartum treatment, prognostic factors, and counseling families regarding future recurrence risk.
Thermally conductive process and mechanism of TATB‐based polymer‐bonded explosives filled with graphene: Effects of interfacial thermal resistance and morphology/content of graphene
Authors: Zhou Bo , Zhang Xiaomeng , Zhang Gang , Zhao Xu
Published: August 2023

The thermal conductivity of energy‐containing materials has a significant impact on their environmental suitability during manufacturing, transportation, and storage. In order to effectively regulate the thermal conductivity of polymer‐bonded explosives (PBXs), this study investigates the effects of different aspect ratios of graphene binder and interfacial thermal resistance on the thermal conductivity of TATB‐based PBXs using the finite element method. A model was constructed using Abaqus software to establish the constitutive relationship between graphene with varying aspect ratios and the thermal conductivity of PBXs. The results indicate that the effect of different graphene aspect ratios on the overall thermal conductivity of PBXs is small when the graphene content is lower than 3%. However, the thermal conductivity of PBXs increases nonlinearly with the increase in graphene aspect ratio when the graphene content is higher than 8%. Furthermore, the interfacial thermal resistance reduces the thermal conductivity of the PBX system by approximately 0.16 W/(m K), and its effect on the thermal conductivity of the system is relatively stable and does not change significantly with increasing graphene content and aspect ratio.

Highlights

Thermally conductive behavior of graphene‐filled PBX is revealed by simulation.

The effects of content and aspect ratio of graphene are systematically investigated.

The effect of interface thermal resistance is considered in the simulation.
Characterization of rain microphysics on the leeside of the Western Ghats
Authors: Murali Krishna U. V. , Das Subrata Kumar , Kolte Yogesh , Jha Abhishek , Konwar Mahen , Deshpande Sachin , Pandithurai Govindan
Published: August 2023

This study evaluates the performance of four impact‐type disdrometers installed at the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology, Pune, located on the leeside of the Western Ghats (WG). Further, seasonal variation of rain microphysical properties is studied during premonsoon (March–May), monsoon (June–September), postmonsoon (October–November), and winter (December–February). The four disdrometers exhibit comparable raindrop size distribution (DSD) patterns, though negligible differences are found at smaller drop diameters. The DSD shows higher concentrations of smaller (large‐size) drops during monsoon (premonsoon and postmonsoon). Principal component analysis revealed three distinct modes of DSD characteristics. Monsoon DSDs are associated with a group of numerous smaller drops allied with shallow storm heights (warm rain). The premonsoon and postmonsoon DSDs are clustered in a group where ice‐based processes dominate, resulting in higher median drop diameters (D0) and smaller normalized intercept parameters (Nw). The fitted gamma DSD model indicates higher mass‐weighted mean diameter (Dm) during premonsoon, and higher intercept parameter during monsoon, whereas postmonsoon and winter have intermediate values. DSD stratified with rain rate shows that the Dm values increase with an increase in rain rate during winter, monsoon and postmonsoon, whereas in premonsoon, Dm increases initially and then decreases. Higher Dm and lower Nw are observed during convective rain in all seasons. The fitted slope–shape parameter relationships show a considerable seasonal variation. The DSD on the WG's leeside is notably different from the windward slopes and other WG locations. Different microphysical and dynamical mechanisms lead to seasonal differences in DSD characteristics. In monsoon, a considerable volume of water vapour advected from the Arabian Sea promotes the formation of raindrops through collision–coalescence processes, which may result in a higher proportion of smaller and midsized raindrops. The deeper clouds during premonsoon and postmonsoon indicate mixed‐phase processes, which lead to mid and large‐sized raindrops.
Belief reliability index determination method based on group decision‐making
Authors: Gao Ying , Zu Tianpei , Li Ruiying , Kang Rui
Published: August 2023

For newly developing systems, the determination of the reliability index is an important task in the system demonstration process that determines both the system design goal and the verification requirement. However, due to the insufficient data at the beginning of the system life cycle, the problem of epistemic uncertainty cannot be ignored. Researchers have proposed several belief reliability metrics and analysis methods to quantify the epistemic uncertainty of a system, but to the best knowledge of the authors, no relevant studies have been performed on system reliability index determination. In this paper, we propose a belief reliability index determination method based on group decision‐making. Using a similar system‐based reliability index determination method, this method comprehensively considers the demands of users and the capabilities of contractors. In addition, the Delphi method and Hadamard multiplication convex combination are combined to effectively solve the epistemic uncertainty quantification problem. The Delphi method is used to find the conflicts caused by multi‐expert scoring, and the Hadamard multiplication convex combination can integrate the scoring matrix of all experts, which makes the results more reasonable. Finally, a Low‐Earth‐orbit (LEO) satellite communication system is used to verify the effectiveness of our belief reliability index determination method.
Event‐triggered control of complex‐valued networked control systems under randomly occurring deception attacks
Authors: Lu Hongqian , Dai Xinqiang , Zhou Wuneng
Published: August 2023

This article investigates the event‐triggered control problem in the complex‐valued networked control systems (CVNCS) under randomly occurring deception attacks (RODA). In order to optimize network bandwidth usage, reduce bandwidth waste, and enhance system performance, complex‐valued event‐triggered mechanism (CVETM) is introduced. In addition, to simulate a realistic network environment such as randomly occurring deception attacks (RODA) influence in the network channel, two types of network deception attacks that satisfy a Bernoulli distribution are introduced. Based on the above description, a closed‐loop complex‐valued networked control system (CVNCS) for stochastic deception attacks is constructed. The conditions that ensure stability of the system are obtained using of Lyapunov function and LMI. Additionally, the parameters for the designed controller are provided, and the effectiveness and feasibility of the designed system are demonstrated through simulation examples at the end of the article. Demonstrates that CVETM also has the same general conclusions as ETM.
Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy for soil organic matter analysis
Authors: Margenot Andrew J. , Parikh Sanjai J. , Calderón Francisco J.
Published: August 2023

The study of soil organic matter (SOM) can benefit from the use of Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy, an analytical method that complements traditional fractionation and extraction methods. This review provides guidance on the use of diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier transform (DRIFT) in the mid‐infrared region (MIR: 4000–400 cm−1). Two distinct applications of DRIFT spectroscopy are reviewed: soil organic matter (1) characterization and (2) quantification. Characterization of SOM involves the qualitative to semi‐quantitative measurement of functional groups that constitute organic matter, and quantification employs chemometrics to predict fractions of SOM. Guidance on decision‐making in how methods are conducted based on sample type and research question, and on interpretation of results are provided.
Toward low‐carbon emissions and green growth for sustainable development in emerging economies: Do green trade openness, eco‐innovation, and carbon price matter?
Authors: Tariq Muhammad , Xu Yingzhi , Ullah Kifayat , Dong Biying
Published: August 2023

Due to substantial development in emerging economies over the last three decades, climate complexities are increasing which have posed serious threats to environmental quality and sustainability. To this end, eco‐innovation, green trade openness (GTO), and carbon price have been recognized as effective tools for environmental mitigation and promotion of green growth (GG) in the core of COP 26, Sustainable Development Goals 2030, and Carbon Neutrality by 2060. Considering this, the aim of this study is to investigate the influence of eco‐innovation, GTO, and carbon price on GG and low‐carbon emissions in emerging economies over the period 1996–2021. The current study provides a standard green Solow growth model by introducing a new GG index using the entropy weight method. This index incorporates 30 indicators across five dimensions which emphasizes the essential roles of the investigated factor. Additionally, the current study provides a new index for GTO utilizing an extensive green trading basket of 255 commodities. Due to the cross‐sectional dependency, and slope heterogeneity in the models, this study used dynamic heterogeneous panel data estimation techniques that is, cross‐sectional based augmented nonlinear autoregressive distributed lag, and nonlinear augmented mean group to probe the asymmetric effects. The outcomes from the empirical analysis reveal that positive shocks in environmental innovation, GTO, carbon price, and green energy mitigate carbon emissions and promote green economic growth while the negative shocks in these variables cause environmental degradation and reduce GG in emerging economies. Finally, from policy insight, this study suggests that policy makers in emerging economies should invigorate GTO, stimulate environmental innovation and green energy, implement carbon price mechanisms, and establish a balance between environmental protection and economic growth.