bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Long-term suitability of an alternative host for rearing the sugarcane stalk borer parasitoid Tetrastichus howardi
Authors: Bermúdez Natalia Carolina , de la Pava Nataly , Cáceres Juan Sebastián Dueñas , Silva-Torres Christian Sherley Araújo da , Torres Jorge Braz
Published: April 2024

The continuous utilisation of an alternative host may influence parasitoid performance across successive generations due to conditioning in natal hosts. Tetrastichus howardi (Olliff) has successfully been reared using Tenebrio molitor L. pupae as a feasible alternative host. However, the extended rearing of T. howardi on this alternative host may impact the biological features of the parasitoids. Parasitoids were reared using T. molitor pupae for 30 consecutive generations. Quality criteria were assessed during the generations F5, F15, and F30, offering pupae of the target pest, Diatraea saccharalis (Fabr.), and compared with the F0 generation (parasitoids reared in D. saccharalis pupae). Criteria included assessments of parasitism performance, host selection, and wing form variation in the parasitoid wasps. Additionally, we examined the fecundity of T. howardi females that emerged from both hosts, considering their age, egg loading before and after one oviposition, as well as parasitism of sugarcane stalk borer pupae. Rearing T. howardi using pupae of T. molitor did not affect its biological traits or preference for the target pest for 30 generations. After parasitism, the parasitoid left the host pupa inside the stalk, and one oviposition was enough to kill D. saccharalis pupae and obtain viable parasitoid progeny. Female sexual maturation and egg loading occurred 72 and 96 h after parasitoid emergence. Egg-loading recovery after parasitism did not happen within 24 h. T. howardi can be reared for up to 30 generations using alternative hosts without compromising its parasitism performance or egg loading.
Informational Efficiency of Cryptocurrency Markets
Authors: Nimalendran Mahendrarajah , Pathak Praveen , Petryk Mariia , Qiu Liangfei
Published: April 2024

This study employs variance ratios (VRs) to assess the roles of regulation and liquidity on cryptocurrency market efficiency, focusing on crypto-assets subject to varying degrees of regulation. Our findings reveal that cryptocurrencies supervised by FinCEN-licensed exchanges (IEO-L) exhibit market efficiency similar to SEC-regulated traditional stock offerings (IPOs). Conversely, noncompliant crypto-assets display higher market inefficiency. We also establish a connection between regulatory compliance and issuing entity reputation mechanisms. Our results indicate that compliance with existing regulatory norms enhances efficiency and reduces investor risks in crypto-assets. Furthermore, assets voluntarily adhering to regulatory norms can attain efficiency akin to government-regulated assets.
A Musical Variation on Late Medieval Religious Reform: Johannes Nider and the Observant Dominican Liturgy
Authors: Jones CJ
Published: April 2024

The Dominican friar Johannes Nider (1380–1438), known today as the father of witchcraft literature, played an important role at the Council of Basel (1431–49) on the Council's delegation to the Hussites and its deputation on religious reform. Despite Nider's reputation as a reformer of religious communities, his approach to communal liturgy has not attracted close attention. This article focuses on his broad theoretical treatise, De reformatione religiosorum or De reformatione status cenobitici (On the Reform of the Religious State), in which Nider articulates a philosophical concept of reform as the restoration of beauty, manifested in well-ordered and balanced proportion. In the interest of universal applicability, the treatise remains abstract. However, biographical descriptions of Nider from his contemporaries and the visitation letters he wrote to women's convents show Nider as an engaged liturgical leader, a talented singer with a robust voice, and a zealous expert in the legal particulars of Dominican liturgical regulations. In light of these contexts, De reformatione's sweeping laments over liturgical neglect and academic metaphors of well-disposed proportion are not just rule-hammering and scholastic fancy but rather universalized expressions of Nider's lived commitment to Dominican musical and ritual practice.
SICL based Ka-band series SPDT switch for duplexer application
Authors: Shukla Saurabh , Mukherjee Soumava
Published: April 2024

This paper presents a Ka-band series single-pole double-throw (SPDT) switch circuit realized in substrate-integrated coaxial line (SICL) environment for time division duplex operation. It is designed with a low-cost printed circuit board (PCB) technique. The size of the proposed circuit is

$3.1\lambda_{g} \times 5.9\lambda_{g}$

, where λg is the guided wavelength at the center frequency of 27.75 GHz. In this circuit, a SICL-based SPDT switching circuit is proposed with radio frequency (RF) isolation network where the shunt connection of butterfly stubs is in an asymmetric stripline environment. The proposed circuit exhibits less than 2 dB insertion loss at 27–27.9 GHz and less than 2.5 dB insertion loss at 27–28.5 GHz. The design offers good impedance matching in the Transmit (Tx) and Receive (Rx) channels from the common Tx/Rx input channel, along with more than 24 dB isolation between ON and OFF state output channels. The proposed circuit is suitable for millimeter-wave communication systems.
Diagnostic Method for Atmosphere–Ocean Coupling Over Tropical Oceans at the Sub‐Seasonal Timescale
Authors: Takano Y. H. , Kodama C. , Miura H.
Published: April 2024

This study introduces a novel diagnostic method to assess tropical atmosphere‐ocean coupling, using a two‐dimensional plane defined by the 90‐day high‐pass‐filtered sea surface temperature (SST) and column water vapor (CWV). The method was applied to reanalysis data and high‐resolution coupled atmosphere‐ocean simulation data. In the Indo–Pacific warm pool region, the phase relationship between SST and CWV remained consistent across both reanalysis and simulation data sets. However, differences in the temporal evolution of these variables were observed in the central Pacific region. The heat budget analysis results indicate that the differences between the two data sets in the central Pacific are related to variations in the effects of atmospheric disturbances on SST. This study demonstrates the potential of our novel diagnostic method for evaluating atmosphere–ocean coupling in climate models.
3D Multi‐Fluid MHD Simulation of the Early Time Behavior and Cross‐Field Propagation of an Artificial Plasma Cloud in the Bottom Side Ionosphere
Authors: Hooper C. T. , Ober D. M. , Crawford T. S.
Published: April 2024

The relative motion of an artificial plasma stream in an ambient plasma background transverse to the geomagnetic field produces a polarization current and an drift in the direction of the injected photoionized neutral cloud. The polarization current couples the ion cloud momentum to the ambient plasma causing the stream to brake or “skid” before coming to rest. A multi‐fluid five‐moment resistive magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) model has been previously developed and is used in this study to simulate an artificial barium cloud released at 8 km/s in the lower ionosphere transverse to the magnetic field. The MHD model’s governing equations are used to derive 2D analytical solutions to the equations of motion that capture oscillatory behavior relating the cloud ion cyclotron frequency, artificial and ambient plasma density, initial release velocity, and photoionization rate. The analytical solutions are compared to the MHD results for time t < 1 s and previous 1D momentum coupling models. It is shown that motion in the cloud release direction is consistent with previous models while motion in the polarization direction is consistent with numerical results.
Observed Seasonal Evolution of the Antarctic Slope Current System off the Coast of Dronning Maud Land, East Antarctica
Authors: Lauber Julius , de Steur Laura , Hattermann Tore , Darelius Elin
Published: April 2024

The access of heat to the Antarctic ice shelf cavities is regulated by the Antarctic Slope Front, separating relatively warm offshore water masses from cold water masses on the continental slope and inside the cavity. Previous observational studies along the East Antarctic continental slope have identified the drivers and variability of the front and the associated current, but a complete description of their seasonal cycle is currently lacking. In this study, we utilize two years (2019–2020) of observations from two oceanographic moorings east of the prime meridian to further detail the slope front and current seasonality. In combination with climatological hydrography and satellite‐derived surface velocity, we identify processes that explain the hydrographic variability observed at the moorings. These processes include (a) an offshore spreading of seasonally formed Antarctic Surface Water, resulting in a lag in salinity and thermocline depth seasonality toward deeper isobaths, and (b) the crucial role of buoyancy fluxes from sea ice melt and formation for the baroclinic seasonal cycle. Finally, data from two sub‐ice‐shelf moorings below Fimbulisen show that flow at the main sill into the cavity seasonally coincides with a weaker slope current in spring/summer. The flow is directed out of the cavity in autumn/winter when the slope current is strongest. The refined description of the variability of the slope current and front contributes to a more complete understanding of processes important for ice‐shelf‐ocean interactions in East Antarctica.
Flow and Transport in Coastal Aquifer‐Aquitard Systems: Experimental and Numerical Analysis
Authors: Zhang Jiaxu , Lu Chunhui , Shen Chengji , Liu Yuxuan , Werner Adrian D. , Zhang Chenming
Published: April 2024

Coastal aquifers are commonly layered, and thus, a clear understanding of groundwater flow and salt transport in layered coastal aquifers is important for managing fresh groundwater. However, the influence of leakage between adjacent aquifers on flow and transport processes remains largely unknown where the influence of tides is considered. This study used laboratory experiments and numerical simulation to examine the processes of flow and transport within a tidal aquifer‐aquitard system (i.e., an unconfined aquifer underlain by a semi‐confined aquifer, with an intervening thin aquitard). The laboratory‐scale observations of the current study are the first observations of offshore fresh groundwater within a semi‐confined coastal aquifer. The numerical and laboratory results are in close agreement, revealing that upward leakage from the semi‐confined aquifer into the saltwater wedge of the overlying unconfined aquifer caused buoyant instabilities to form. The development of freshwater fingers created complex saltwater‐freshwater mixing, leading to mixed saltwater influx‐efflux patterns across the sloping aquifer‐ocean interface. Compared with non‐tidal conditions, tidal forces reduced the net upward leakage from the semi‐confined aquifer to the overlying unconfined aquifer. This increased the horizontal flow toward the sea, which in turn reduced the extent of the saltwater wedge in the semi‐confined aquifer. The higher rates of both fresh and saline submarine groundwater discharge (SGD), caused by tides, led to lower groundwater ages in the semi‐confined aquifer. These findings have important implications for unveiling the complex characteristics of seawater intrusion, SGD and geochemical hotspots within layered coastal aquifers.
TAK1 inhibition leads to RIPK1-dependent apoptosis in immune-activated cancers
Authors: Damhofer Helene , Tatar Tülin , Southgate Benjamin , Scarneo Scott , Agger Karl , Shlyueva Daria , Uhrbom Lene , Morrison Gillian M. , Hughes Philip F. , Haystead Timothy , Pollard Steven M. , Helin Kristian
Published: April 2024

Poor survival and lack of treatment response in glioblastoma (GBM) is attributed to the persistence of glioma stem cells (GSCs). To identify novel therapeutic approaches, we performed CRISPR/Cas9 knockout screens and discovered TGFβ activated kinase (TAK1) as a selective survival factor in a significant fraction of GSCs. Loss of TAK1 kinase activity results in RIPK1-dependent apoptosis via Caspase-8/FADD complex activation, dependent on autocrine TNFα ligand production and constitutive TNFR signaling. We identify a transcriptional signature associated with immune activation and the mesenchymal GBM subtype to be a characteristic of cancer cells sensitive to TAK1 perturbation and employ this signature to accurately predict sensitivity to the TAK1 kinase inhibitor HS-276. In addition, exposure to pro-inflammatory cytokines IFNγ and TNFα can sensitize resistant GSCs to TAK1 inhibition. Our findings reveal dependency on TAK1 kinase activity as a novel vulnerability in immune-activated cancers, including mesenchymal GBMs that can be exploited therapeutically.
A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, phase IIa, clinical study on investigating the efficacy and safety of SPH3127 tablet in patients with essential hypertension
Authors: Wang Fang , Liu Ling , Ruan Hongyun , Chen Xiaoping , Zhang Yue , Yu Zaixin , Li Yuhui , Guan Yang , Wang Jiguang , Huang Kai , Yu Shunjiang , Cao Yuanyuan , Ding Cungang , Chang Lin , Huang Yaohua , Chen Xiangjuan , Lv Qiang , Ma Changsheng
Published: April 2024

Around 70% of patients diagnosed with hypertension exhibit increased levels of renin. SPH3127, an inventive renin inhibitor, has shown favorable tolerability and sustained pharmacodynamic inhibitory impact on plasma renin activity (PRA) during previous phase I trials. This phase II study was conducted to investigate the efficacy and safety of SPH3127 in patients with essential hypertension. This study was conducted in patients with mild to moderate essential hypertension, utilizing a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled design. The patients were administered either tablet of SPH3127 at doses of 50 mg, 100 mg, or 200 mg, or a placebo. A total of 122 patients were included in the study, with 121 patients included in the full analysis set. Among these patients, there were 30 individuals in each subgroup receiving different dosage regimens of SPH3127, and 31 patients in the placebo group. The reductions in mean sitting diastolic blood pressure (msDBP) after 8 weeks compared to baseline were 5.7 ± 9.5, 8.6 ± 8.8, and 3.8 ± 10.6 mmHg in the SPH3127 50-, 100-, and 200 mg groups, respectively. In the placebo group, the reduction was 3.1 ± 8.4 mmHg. The corresponding reductions in mean sitting systolic blood pressure (msSBP) were 11.8 ± 13.0, 13.8 ± 11.2, 11.1 ± 13.1, and 7.7 ± 9.7 mmHg in each respective group. SPH3127 is a promising drug for the treatment of patients with essential hypertension. The recommended dosage is 100 mg daily.

Clinical trial registration: This study was registered in ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT03756103).
Malnutrition enteropathy in Zambian and Zimbabwean children with severe acute malnutrition: A multi-arm randomized phase II trial
Authors: Chandwe Kanta , Bwakura-Dangarembizi Mutsa , Amadi Beatrice , Tawodzera Gertrude , Ngosa Deophine , Dzikiti Anesu , Chulu Nivea , Makuyana Robert , Zyambo Kanekwa , Mutasa Kuda , Mulenga Chola , Besa Ellen , Sturgeon Jonathan P. , Mudzingwa Shepherd , Simunyola Bwalya , Kazhila Lydia , Zyambo Masuzyo , Sonkwe Hazel , Mutasa Batsirai , Chipunza Miyoba , Sauramba Virginia , Langhaug Lisa , Mudenda Victor , Murch Simon H. , Hill Susan , Playford Raymond J. , VanBuskirk Kelley , Prendergast Andrew J. , Kelly Paul
Published: April 2024

Malnutrition underlies almost half of all child deaths globally. Severe Acute Malnutrition (SAM) carries unacceptable mortality, particularly if accompanied by infection or medical complications, including enteropathy. We evaluated four interventions for malnutrition enteropathy in a multi-centre phase II multi-arm trial in Zambia and Zimbabwe and completed in 2021. The purpose of this trial was to identify therapies which could be taken forward into phase III trials. Children of either sex were eligible for inclusion if aged 6–59 months and hospitalised with SAM (using WHO definitions: WLZ <−3, and/or MUAC <11.5 cm, and/or bilateral pedal oedema), with written, informed consent from the primary caregiver. We randomised 125 children hospitalised with complicated SAM to 14 days treatment with (i) bovine colostrum (n = 25), (ii) N-acetyl glucosamine (n = 24), (iii) subcutaneous teduglutide (n = 26), (iv) budesonide (n = 25) or (v) standard care only (n = 25). The primary endpoint was a composite of faecal biomarkers (myeloperoxidase, neopterin, α1-antitrypsin). Laboratory assessments, but not treatments, were blinded. Per-protocol analysis used ANCOVA, adjusted for baseline biomarker value, sex, oedema, HIV status, diarrhoea, weight-for-length Z-score, and study site, with pre-specified significance of P < 0.10. Of 143 children screened, 125 were randomised. Teduglutide reduced the primary endpoint of biomarkers of mucosal damage (effect size −0.89 (90% CI: −1.69,−0.10) P = 0.07), while colostrum (−0.58 (−1.4, 0.23) P = 0.24), N-acetyl glucosamine (−0.20 (−1.01, 0.60) P = 0.67), and budesonide (−0.50 (−1.33, 0.33) P = 0.32) had no significant effect. All interventions proved safe. This work suggests that treatment of enteropathy may be beneficial in children with complicated malnutrition. The trial was registered at ClinicalTrials.gov with the identifier NCT03716115.
Data-driven recombination detection in viral genomes
Authors: Alfonsi Tommaso , Bernasconi Anna , Chiara Matteo , Ceri Stefano
Published: April 2024

Recombination is a key molecular mechanism for the evolution and adaptation of viruses. The first recombinant SARS-CoV-2 genomes were recognized in 2021; as of today, more than ninety SARS-CoV-2 lineages are designated as recombinant. In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, several methods for detecting recombination in SARS-CoV-2 have been proposed; however, none could faithfully confirm manual analyses by experts in the field. We hereby present RecombinHunt, an original data-driven method for the identification of recombinant genomes, capable of recognizing recombinant SARS-CoV-2 genomes (or lineages) with one or two breakpoints with high accuracy and within reduced turn-around times. ReconbinHunt shows high specificity and sensitivity, compares favorably with other state-of-the-art methods, and faithfully confirms manual analyses by experts. RecombinHunt identifies recombinant viral genomes from the recent monkeypox epidemic in high concordance with manually curated analyses by experts, suggesting that our approach is robust and can be applied to any epidemic/pandemic virus.
The DEAD-box ATPase Dbp10/DDX54 initiates peptidyl transferase center formation during 60S ribosome biogenesis
Authors: Cruz Victor E. , Weirich Christine S. , Peddada Nagesh , Erzberger Jan P.
Published: April 2024

DEAD-box ATPases play crucial roles in guiding rRNA restructuring events during the biogenesis of large (60S) ribosomal subunits, but their precise molecular functions are currently unknown. In this study, we present cryo-EM reconstructions of nucleolar pre-60S intermediates that reveal an unexpected, alternate secondary structure within the nascent peptidyl-transferase-center (PTC). Our analysis of three sequential nucleolar pre-60S intermediates reveals that the DEAD-box ATPase Dbp10/DDX54 remodels this alternate base pairing and enables the formation of the rRNA junction that anchors the mature form of the universally conserved PTC A-loop. Post-catalysis, Dbp10 captures rRNA helix H61, initiating the concerted exchange of biogenesis factors during late nucleolar 60S maturation. Our findings show that Dbp10 activity is essential for the formation of the ribosome active site and reveal how this function is integrated with subsequent assembly steps to drive the biogenesis of the large ribosomal subunit.
Intelligent perceptual textiles based on ionic-conductive and strong silk fibers
Authors: Lu Haojie , Zhang Yong , Zhu Mengjia , Li Shuo , Liang Huarun , Bi Peng , Wang Shuai , Wang Haomin , Gan Linli , Wu Xun-En , Zhang Yingying
Published: April 2024

Endowing textiles with perceptual function, similar to human skin, is crucial for the development of next-generation smart wearables. To date, the creation of perceptual textiles capable of sensing potential dangers and accurately pinpointing finger touch remains elusive. In this study, we present the design and fabrication of intelligent perceptual textiles capable of electrically responding to external dangers and precisely detecting human touch, based on conductive silk fibroin-based ionic hydrogel (SIH) fibers. These fibers possess excellent fracture strength (55 MPa), extensibility (530%), stable and good conductivity (0.45 S·m–1) due to oriented structures and ionic incorporation. We fabricated SIH fiber-based protective textiles that can respond to fire, water, and sharp objects, protecting robots from potential injuries. Additionally, we designed perceptual textiles that can specifically pinpoint finger touch, serving as convenient human-machine interfaces. Our work sheds new light on the design of next-generation smart wearables and the reshaping of human-machine interfaces.
Discovery of potent inhibitors of α-synuclein aggregation using structure-based iterative learning
Authors: Horne Robert I. , Andrzejewska Ewa A. , Alam Parvez , Brotzakis Z. Faidon , Srivastava Ankit , Aubert Alice , Nowinska Magdalena , Gregory Rebecca C. , Staats Roxine , Possenti Andrea , Chia Sean , Sormanni Pietro , Ghetti Bernardino , Caughey Byron , Knowles Tuomas P. J. , Vendruscolo Michele
Published: April 2024

Machine learning methods hold the promise to reduce the costs and the failure rates of conventional drug discovery pipelines. This issue is especially pressing for neurodegenerative diseases, where the development of disease-modifying drugs has been particularly challenging. To address this problem, we describe here a machine learning approach to identify small molecule inhibitors of α-synuclein aggregation, a process implicated in Parkinson’s disease and other synucleinopathies. Because the proliferation of α-synuclein aggregates takes place through autocatalytic secondary nucleation, we aim to identify compounds that bind the catalytic sites on the surface of the aggregates. To achieve this goal, we use structure-based machine learning in an iterative manner to first identify and then progressively optimize secondary nucleation inhibitors. Our results demonstrate that this approach leads to the facile identification of compounds two orders of magnitude more potent than previously reported ones.
A GRU–CNN model for auditory attention detection using microstate and recurrence quantification analysis
Authors: EskandariNasab MohammadReza , Raeisi Zahra , Lashaki Reza Ahmadi , Najafi Hamidreza
Published: April 2024

Attention as a cognition ability plays a crucial role in perception which helps humans to concentrate on specific objects of the environment while discarding others. In this paper, auditory attention detection (AAD) is investigated using different dynamic features extracted from multichannel electroencephalography (EEG) signals when listeners attend to a target speaker in the presence of a competing talker. To this aim, microstate and recurrence quantification analysis are utilized to extract different types of features that reflect changes in the brain state during cognitive tasks. Then, an optimized feature set is determined by employing the processes of significant feature selection based on classification performance. The classifier model is developed by hybrid sequential learning that employs Gated Recurrent Units (GRU) and Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) into a unified framework for accurate attention detection. The proposed AAD method shows that the selected feature set achieves the most discriminative features for the classification process. Also, it yields the best performance as compared with state-of-the-art AAD approaches from the literature in terms of various measures. The current study is the first to validate the use of microstate and recurrence quantification parameters to differentiate auditory attention using reinforcement learning without access to stimuli.
Effectiveness of toric intraocular lens implantation for correcting irregular corneal astigmatism in cataract eyes
Authors: Chen Xiteng , Jiang Yuanfeng , Gao Nan , Gao Yichen , Yang Jun , Bu Shaochong , Tian Fang
Published: April 2024

A retrospective cohort study was conducted to observe the correction effect of Toric intraocular lens (IOL) implantation in cataract eyes with specific types of irregular corneal astigmatism. Thirty-four eyes with either the "asymmetric bow-tie" pattern (Type I) or the "angled bow-tie" pattern (Type II) were included. Corneal topography was assessed using Pentacam HR, and changes in preoperative corneal astigmatism, visual acuity, manifest refraction, and objective visual quality were measured and compared. The average uncorrected distance visual acuity improved significantly from 0.86 ± 0.40 logMAR to 0.22 ± 0.15 logMAR (P < 0.001). Preoperative corneal astigmatism of 2.05 ± 0.90 D was corrected to a postoperative residual astigmatism of 0.78 ± 0.57 D (P < 0.001), with 32% of eyes within 0.50 D. The residual astigmatism prediction errors in Type I and Type II cases were (0.97 ± 0.68 D) and (0.66 ± 0.37 D), respectively (P = 0.100). The mean spherical equivalent prediction error in Type II cases (0.07 ± 0.36 D) was significantly smaller than that in Type I cases (− 0.29 ± 0.52 D) (P = 0.030). This study concludes that Toric IOL implantation effectively corrects specific types of irregular corneal astigmatism in cataract surgery. Eyes with the "angled bow-tie" pattern show higher accuracy in refractive predictions compared to eyes with the "asymmetric bow-tie" pattern.
Longitudinal changes in optic disc cupping from the baseline in chiasmal lesion optic neuropathy and glaucoma
Authors: Lee Eun Jung , Han Jong Chul , Kang Mira , Kong Doo-Sik , Hong Sang Duk , Park Kyung-Ah , Kee Changwon
Published: April 2024

We aimed to investigate the changes in cupping in chiasmal lesion optic neuropathy (chON) compared to baseline optic disc and glaucoma. We used a novel study design to enroll patients who had fundus photographs incidentally taken during routine health check-ups prior to the onset of optic neuropathy. In 31 eyes (21 patients) with chON and 33 eyes (30 patients) with glaucoma, we investigated the change in cup-to-disc (C/D) area from the baseline to overt cupping using flicker analysis. Compared to the baseline, 23 eyes (74.2%) had increased cup size and 3 (9.7%) had vascular configuration changes in the chONgroup; in contrast, all glaucoma eyes exhibited changes in cup size and vascular configuration. The increase in C/D area ratio was significantly smaller in chON (0.04 ± 0.04) compared to glaucoma (0.10 ± 0.04, P < 0.001); the minimum residual neuroretinal rim width showed a more pronounced difference (29.7 ± 8.2% vs 7.1 ± 3.9%, P < 0.001). The changes distributed predominantly towards the nasal direction in chON, contrasting the changes to the arcuate fibers in glaucoma. In conclusion, our results provide the first longitudinal evidence of true pathological cupping in chONcompared to photographically disease-free baseline. The marked difference in the residual minimum rim width reaffirms the importance of rim obliteration in the differential diagnosis between the two diseases.
A systematic review of pharmacogenetic testing to guide antipsychotic treatment
Authors: Saadullah Khani Noushin , Hudson Georgie , Mills Georgina , Ramesh Soumita , Varney Lauren , Cotic Marius , Abidoph Rosemary , Richards-Belle Alvin , Carrascal-Laso Lorena , Franco-Martin Manuel , Kaas-Hansen Benjamin Skov , Jürgens Gesche , Barrett Barbara , Jin Huajie , Bramon Elvira
Published: April 2024

Pharmacogenomics could optimize antipsychotic treatment by preventing adverse drug reactions, improving treatment efficacy or relieving the cost burden on the healthcare system. Here we conducted a systematic review to investigate whether pharmacogenetic testing in individuals undergoing antipsychotic treatment influences clinical or economic outcomes. On 12 January 2024, we searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsycINFO and Cochrane Centrale Register of Controlled Trials. The results were summarized using a narrative approach and summary tables. In total, 13 studies were eligible for inclusion in the systematic review. The current evidence base is either in favor of pharmacogenetics-guided prescribing or showed no difference between pharmacogenetics and treatment as usual for clinical and economic outcomes. In the future, we require randomized controlled trials with sufficient sample sizes that provide recommendations for patients who take antipsychotics based on a broad, multigene panel, with consistent and comparable clinical outcomes.
A 3d convolutional neural network autoencoder for predicting solvent configuration changes in condensed phase biomass reactions
Authors: Puliyanda Anjana , Devan Padmanathan Arul Mozhi , Mushrif Samir H. , Prasad Vinay
Published: April 2024

Self-supervised 3d CNN autoencoder combined with a distance-based classifier is trained on first principles simulations to predict the extent of solvent configuration changes during reactive chemical transformations.
Optically monitoring the microenvironment of a hydrophobic cargo in amphiphilic nanogels: influence of network composition on loading and release
Authors: López-Iglesias Clara , Markovina Ante , Nirmalananthan-Budau Nithiya , Resch-Genger Ute , Klinger Daniel
Published: April 2024

Spectroscopic studies revealed that in amphiphilic nanogels Nile red locates in the hydrophobic domains and the border to the hydrophilic matrix.
Retraction: Synthesis and characterization of a supported Pd complex on volcanic pumice laminates textured by cellulose for facilitating Suzuki–Miyaura cross-coupling reactions
Authors: Soltani Siavash Salek , Taheri-Ledari Reza , Farnia S. Morteza F. , Maleki Ali , Foroumadi Alireza
Published: April 2024

Retraction of ‘Synthesis and characterization of a supported Pd complex on volcanic pumice laminates textured by cellulose for facilitating Suzuki–Miyaura cross-coupling reactions’ by Siavash Salek Soltani et al., RSC Adv., 2020, 10, 23359–23371, https://doi.org/10.1039/D0RA04521G.
A highly efficient catalytic method for the synthesis of phosphite diesters
Authors: Saito Yuki , Cho Soo Min , Danieli Luca Alessandro , Matsunaga Akira , Kobayashi Shū
Published: April 2024

An efficient synthetic method of phosphate esters were developed by the combination of newly developed Zn(ii) catalyzed two-step phosphonylation and oxidation. Nucleotide compounds could be accessed by using the developed method.
The effect of aromatic side chains on the dilational rheological properties of N-acyltaurate amphiphiles at water–decane interfaces
Authors: Zhu Yang-wen , Xu Zhi-cheng , Zhang Li , Liu Ping , Hou Yu , Zhang Lei , Zhang Lu
Published: April 2024

The interfacial rheological properties of sodium N-2-(2-naphthoxy)-tetradecanoyltaurinate (12+N-T) and sodium N-2-(p-butylphenoxy)-tetradecanoyltaurinate (12+4B-T) were investigated to elucidate the effect of aromatic side chains.
Photo-accelerated oxidation of spiro-OMeTAD for efficient carbon-based perovskite solar cells
Authors: Vijayaraghavan S. N. , Khawaja Kausar , Wall Jacob , Xiang Wenjun , Yan Feng
Published: April 2024

Photo-accelerated oxidization enables fast production of a Spiro-OMeTAD hole transport layer in perovskite solar cells. This strategy delivers high power conversion efficiency and overcomes barriers to mass manufacturing.
Low‐density algebra‐check codes for ultra reliable low latency communications
Authors: Tang Zuo , Lei Jing , Lai Ke , Huang Ying
Published: April 2024

A novel channel code, the low‐density algebra‐check (LDAC) code, is introduced in this letter. LDAC code is constructed by combining sparse matrice with algebraic constraints from two types of subcodes. Detailed explanations for the encoding and decoding process of the LDAC codes are provided in the paper. Simulation results demonstrate that LDAC codes offer advantages over LDPC codes in constructing low rate codes. The proposed ultra‐low rate LDAC code can achieve approximately 0.4 and 0.2 dB improvement in SNR compared to CA‐polar and 5G LDPC, respectively, at the block error rate (BER) over the additive white Gaussian noise (AWGN) channel. LDAC codes demonstrate superior performance over LDPC codes at low rates, due to the enhanced error correction capabilities of the two types of subcodes and reduced rates without introducing short cycles.
An impedance transformer for UHF RFID and WiFi cross‐technology communication‐based tourism crowd counting
Authors: Tai Oi‐Tai , Tam Kam‐Weng , Kuan Wai‐Son
Published: April 2024

This letter proposes a novel cross‐shaped structure‐based parallel coupled line transformer and its application to tag antenna for 920‐MHz radio frequency identification (RFID) and 5‐GHz WiFi Cross‐Technology Communication (CTC). This transformer can be tuned by some lumped capacitors and the equivalent transmission line length for high order harmonic matching. The WiFi is applicable for tourism crowd counting and its counting accuracy may be increased with an additional number of the virtual WiFi Access Points contributed by 5‐GHz resonance of said tags attached with touristic metallic objects. To study the 5‐GHz resonance of these tags the tag antenna is a square patch with a rectangular slot built with 3D acrylonitrile butadiene styrene printing material. The working frequency of the antenna is around 920 MHz, which can achieve a gain of 5.4 dBi and there is also a resonance at 5.6 GHz with a gain of −6.7 dBi. When the capacitor is tuned, the 5‐GHz band of WiFi is varied from 5.2 to 5.6 GHz applicable to emerging WiFi 5 and 6 CTC applications. It is anticipated that the prototype tag provides a flexible tourism crowd counting solution using CTC in the future.
A hybrid deep learning model for short‐term load forecasting of distribution networks integrating the channel attention mechanism
Authors: Qin Boyu , Gao Xin , Ding Tao , Li Fan , Liu Dong , Zhang Zhe , Huang Ruanming
Published: April 2024

Optimizing short‐term load forecasting performance is a challenge due to the randomness of nonlinear power load and variability of system operation mode. The existing methods generally ignore how to reasonably and effectively combine the complementary advantages among them and fail to capture enough internal information from load data, resulting in accuracy reduction. To achieve accurate and efficient short‐term load forecasting, an integral implementation framework is proposed based on convolutional neural network (CNN), gated recurrent unit (GRU) and channel attention mechanism. CNN and GRU are first combined to fully extract the highly complicated dynamic characteristics and learn time compliance relationships of load sequence. Based on CNN‐GRU network, the channel attention mechanism is introduced to further reduce the loss of historical information and enhance the impact of important characteristics. Then, the overall framework of short‐term load forecasting based on CNN‐GRU‐Attention network is proposed, and the coupling relationship between each stage is revealed. Finally, the developed framework is implemented on realistic load dataset of distribution networks, and the experimental results verify the effectiveness of the proposed method. Compared with the state‐of‐the‐art models, the CNN‐GRU‐Attention model outperforms in different evaluation metrics.
Advances in artificial intelligence and machine learning for quantum communication applications
Authors: Mafu Mhlambululi
Published: April 2024

Artificial intelligence (AI) and classical machine learning (ML) techniques have revolutionised numerous fields, including quantum communication. Quantum communication technologies rely heavily on quantum resources, which can be challenging to produce, control, and maintain effectively to ensure optimum performance. ML has recently been applied to quantum communication and networks to mitigate noise‐induced errors and analyse quantum protocols. The authors systematically review state‐of‐the‐art ML applications to advance theoretical and experimental central quantum communication protocols, specifically quantum key distribution, quantum teleportation, quantum secret sharing, and quantum networks. Specifically, the authors survey the progress on how ML and, more broadly, AI techniques have been applied to optimise various components of a quantum communication system. This has resulted in ultra‐secure quantum communication protocols with optimised key generation rates as well as efficient and robust quantum networks. Integrating AI and ML techniques opens intriguing prospects for securing and facilitating efficient and reliable large‐scale communication between multiple parties. Most significantly, large‐scale communication networks have the potential to gradually develop the maturity of a future quantum internet.
Balance of humus and nutrients in the meadow-chernozem soil of the rice ecosystem
Authors: Sheudzhen A.Kh. , Gutorova O.A. , Hurum H.D. , Ashinov Yu.N.
Published: April 2024

The purpose of the study is to determine the influence of mineral and organomineral fertilizer systems on the balance of humus and nutrients in meadow-chernozem soil of the rice ecosystem. The field test was conducted at the Maryano-Cheburgolsky irrigation massif of the Kuban-type rice irrigation system, which studied the effect of mineral fertilizers and their combination with manure slurry introduced in different periods (autumn and spring) and in different ways (with and without the nitrification inhibitor Entec FL). It was established that the optimization of mineral nutrition of plants is accompanied by an increase in rice yield by 2.32–2.78 t/ha and an increase in the removal of nutrients from the soil with harvest. The deficit-free balance of humus and food elements in meadow-chernozem soil under rice is ensured by using an organomineral fertilizer system with slurry application rate of 30 t/ha and N120P80K60 mineral fertilizers. The combined action of mineral and organic fertilizers reduces the loss of humus from the soil by 2.9–3.0 t/ha and returns nitrogen 51.4–61.4 kg/ha (35.1–46.8%), phosphorus – 48.6–55.6 kg/ha (72.1–92.1%), potassium – 20.8–31.4 kg/ha (21.4–52.0%) taken with rice crop.
Unit for mineral fertilizer application before seeding the land
Authors: Juraev F.U. , Ruzikulov K.I. , Savriddinov A. , Urinov E.F.
Published: April 2024

The article concerns the results of developing a new tool for a chisel-cultivator, developed scheme for the unit, a new design of a bunker made for transferring mineral fertilizers to the base of a chisel-cultivator unit to a depth of 20–25 cm. The consumption of mineral fertilizers was determined by measuring one dissipating pipeline every one meter, and this method was used to determine the consumption of mineral fertilizers for one hectare of the sown area. A decrease in the amount of potassium reduces the activity of nitrogen. Phosphorus and potash fertilizers increase the winter hardiness of winter wheat, accelerate grain ripening, and increase its weight. It protects the stem from falling and increases its resistance to various diseases. An overabundance of nitrogen fertilization will extend the life of the growth while ultimately destroying it.
Research of deformation processes of Amu-Bukhara canal and increase of water permeability
Authors: Sobirov F.Ch. , Begieva Sh.B.
Published: April 2024

The use of spurs and dams in the moderation of water flow, the correct direction of water supply, flow and protection of coastal areas from leaching, increase the strength of the current repair work. phase execution. The hydraulic parameters of the riverbed in the lower reaches of the Amudarya, in particular, the average depth of the river and the width of the riverbed are determined by the abundance of water in the river. calculated calculations were obtained by analyzing by obtaining links to water consumption in the years. Recommendations and calculation methods for the prevention, protection of floods in the river during floods, increasing the strength of hydraulic structures are recommended. This includes the construction of riverbeds and shore protection in the river areas, the creation of safe conditions in the settlements along the river and the prevention of floods in arable lands, as well as the improvement of river capacity and hydraulic engineering in the river. to ensure the safe and efficient operation of facilities and to be used in solving other engineering tasks.
Reducing the environmental burden during the reconstruction of highways by extending their life cycle
Authors: Trautvain A.I. , Yadykina V.V.
Published: April 2024

The article presents the results of studies on assessing the effectiveness of using stabilizing additives of complex action (Chimston) to increase the bearing capacity of structural layers of the base of road pavements of the Far North highways due to its use in strengthening various types of non-cohesive soils in combination with an inorganic binder. It was found that the application of Chimston is unconditionally required, as the additive in the system allows one to obtain a material that meets the regulatory requirements for frost resistance and to ensure the reliable operation of the road structure in the conditions of the Far North. The maximum efficiency in terms of physical and mechanical characteristics with Chimston in the system was demonstrated by compositions based on crushed sand stabilized with 7 % cement, and for crushed stone-sand mixes of types C-7 and C-6 with 9 % cement. Based on the analysis of the obtained results, it can be assumed that the stabilizing additive Chimston, adsorbing on the surface of particles of sandy and coarse-grained soil, interacts with the inorganic binder of the composite. It affects the mechanism of its hydraulic activity in the process of gaining brand strength, which was most confirmed in the study of strength characteristics of samples based on coarse-grained soils. Thus, with an increase in the amount of binder in the presence of the Chimston additive, a higher increase in the compressive strength of the samples is observed. An increase in the amount of binder when adding an additive to the composition of samples based on coarse-grained soils contributes to the maximum gain in compressive strength of samples containing 9% cement. The obtained results allow for the conclusion that the technology of using the polymer stabilizer Chimston in the construction of structural layers of the base of road clothes based on loose soils can provide the required transport and operational condition of road structures with a life cycle of 24 years. It will also significantly reduce the volume of industrial waste used as pavement, as well as reduce the consumption of unsustainable Portland cement.
Methodological foundations for the application of the competency-based approach to personnel development in the context of agriculture digitalisation
Authors: Malinina Olga , Gurieva Anastasia
Published: April 2024

The article presents the main innovations introduced in global agriculture. The trends and problems of digitalisation of agribusiness in the Russian Federation are highlighted. One of the significant and complex problems facing the digitalisation of agriculture is the lack of human resources. At the same time, the set of employees, mainly low-level workers involved in the work of agribusinesses, does not have the appropriate level of professional competence taking into account the applied digital technologies. The necessity and significance of state support in the framework of technological breakthrough in the agro-industrial complex of the country is considered. The author’s position with regard to the personnel of the agricultural industry is defined. Personnel as a key element needs constant improvement of professional competences, which can be achieved by applying the improved methodological approach to the formation of competences of different levels of specialists at the stage of their training in an educational institution. Based on the opinions of managers of agricultural enterprises, obtained as a result of the survey and study of the Professional Standard, competences for three levels of employees of agricultural enterprises are proposed. The most important competences and the levels of difficulty in mastering these competences are highlighted.
Research of the main segments of the fertilizer market
Authors: Momot Raisa V. , Nebesnaya Anna Yu.
Published: April 2024

This article is devoted to an overview of the main segments of both the global market and the Russian fertilizer market. The main trends occurring in these markets have been identified. The market for organic fertilizers was studied as an integral part of the global fertilizer market. Positive dynamics towards the development of organic farming in the world have been noted. Factors influencing the dynamics of development of the fertilizer market in general and the organic fertilizer market in particular have been identified.
On the question of the economic feasibility of implementing climate projects on disturbed land in the central federal district
Authors: Shashkin Anton P. , Morkovina Svetlana S.
Published: April 2024

The article discusses issues related to assessing the potential of disturbed lands for the implementation of climate change afforestation projects. Information is provided on the quantity and composition of disturbed lands and a detailed assessment of the areas of the Central Federal District suitable for the implementation of climate change afforestation projects is presented. An algorithm has been developed for making a decision on the implementation of a climate project on disturbed lands.
The choice of optimal parameters for bioactivated wheat grinding in grain bread technology
Authors: Alekhina Nadezhda , Аndreanova Tatyana , Ponomareva Elena , Lukina Svetlana , Lobacheva Natalia , Logunova Lyudmila
Published: April 2024

Currently, one of the state policy priority tasks in the field of healthy nutrition is related to functional products development, including bioactivated wheat grain bread. One of the most important technological operations in the technology of its preparation is grinding, accompanied by the production of various dispersion degrees of grain mass. In addition, the process of bioactivated grain grinding is accompanied by an increase in its temperature, being also important to take into account in bread making technology with its use. Therefore, the optimal parameters for bioactivated wheat grinding to obtain the best quality bread were determined in the work. As the main factors, the grain mass temperature and the holes diameter of the chopper matrix were chosen. The output parameters were the bread crumb porosity and compressibility degree. Optimization was carried out by applying mathematical methods of experiment planning (central compositional rotatable planning). The regression equations adequately describing the obtained dependences of the crumb porosity and compressibility on the grain mass temperature and the cells diameter of the grinder matrix, through which the bioactivated wheat had been passed, were obtained as a result of the experiment. It was found out that the bread crumb highest porosity (58.0%) and compressibility (8.1%) were observed at the following optimal values of input factors: grain mass temperature of 28.0 °C and diameter of the chopper matrix holes of 2.0 mm. The values obtained are the basis for the development of technological instructions for “Zlakovik” bread.