bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Conditioned Protein Structure Prediction
Authors: Xie Tengyu , Song Zilin , Huang Jing
Published: October 2024

Deep-learning-based protein structure prediction has facilitated major breakthroughs in biological sciences. However, current methods struggle with alternative conformation prediction and offer limited integration of expert knowledge on protein dynamics. We introduce AFEXplorer, a generic approach that tailors AlphaFold predictions to user-defined constraints in coarse coordinate spaces by optimizing embedding features. Its effectiveness in generating functional protein conformations in accordance with predefined conditions is demonstrated through comprehensive examples. AFEXplorer serves as a versatile platform for conditioned protein structure prediction, bridging the gap between automated models and domain-specific insights.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Weight-Reduced Stabilizer Codes with Lower Overhead
Authors: Sabo Eric , Gunderman Lane G. , Ide Benjamin , Vasmer Michael , Dauphinais Guillaume
Published: October 2024

Stabilizer codes are the most widely studied class of quantum error-correcting codes and form the basis of most proposals for a fault-tolerant quantum computer. A stabilizer code is defined by a set of parity-check operators, which are measured in order to infer information about errors that may have occurred. In typical settings, measuring these operators is itself a noisy process and the noise strength scales with the number of qubits involved in a given parity check, or its weight. Hastings has proposed a method for reducing the weights of the parity checks of a stabilizer code, though it has previously only been studied in the asymptotic regime. Here, we instead focus on the regime of small to medium-size codes suitable for quantum computing hardware. We both provide a fully explicit description of Hastings’s method and propose a substantially simplified weight-reduction method that is applicable to the class of quantum product codes. Our simplified method allows us to reduce the check weights of hypergraph- and lifted-product codes to at most six, while preserving the number of logical qubits and at least retaining (in fact, often increasing) the code distance. The price we pay is an increase in the number of physical qubits by a constant factor but we find that our method is much more efficient than Hastings’s method in this regard. We benchmark the performance of our codes on a simulated photonic quantum computing architecture based on Gottesman-Kitaev-Preskill qubits and passive linear optics, finding that our weight-reduction method substantially improves code performance.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Hydrogen-bonding interactions in the salts 2,4,6-triaminopyrimidin-1-ium sorbate dihydrate, 2,4,6-triaminopyrimidin-1-ium N-phenylantharanilate and 2,4,6-triaminopyrimidin-1-ium p-toluenesulfonate
Authors: Mohana Marimuthu , Gomathi Sundaramoorthy , Thomas Muthiah Packianathan , Butcher Ray J.
Published: October 2024

Three salts, namely, 2,4,6-triaminopyrimidin-1-ium sorbate dihydrate, C4H8N5
+·C6H7O2
−·2H2O, (I), 2,4,6-triaminopyrimidin-1-ium N-phenylanthranilate, C4H8N5
+·C13H10NO2
−, (II), and 2,4,6-triaminopyrimidin-1-ium p-toluenesulfonate, C4H8N5
+·C7H7O3S−, (III), were synthesized, characterized by X-ray diffraction techniques and their supramolecular interactions investigated. In all three crystal structures, protonation of the pyrimidine moiety occurs at the N1 position and is reflected in a widening of the C—N—C bond angle. In salts (I)–(III), the primary acid–base interaction occurs through a pair of N—H...O hydrogen bonds to give a heterodimeric R
2
2(8) synthon. Salts (II) and (III) form a discrete centrosymmetric base pair that produces a homodimeric R
2
2(8) synthon and salt (I) forms a water-mediated base pair resulting in a tetrameric R
4
4(12) synthon. The supramolecular patterns exhibited by sulfonate salt (III) mimic the patterns of carboxylate salt (II) and both exhibit a DADA array (D = donor and A = acceptor) quadruple hydrogen-bonded pattern. The crystal structures of salts (I) and (III) are stabilized by offset and face-to-face aromatic π–π stacking interactions, respectively. The resulting architectures in salts (I)–(III) are a supramolecular sheet with a rosette-like architecture in (I), a supramolecular sheet-like architecture in (II) and a three-dimensional supramolecular network in (III).
Crystal structure and Hirshfeld surface analyses, crystal voids, intermolecular interaction energies and energy frameworks of 3-benzyl-1-(3-bromopropyl)-5,5-diphenylimidazolidine-2,4-dione
Authors: Lamssane Houda , Haoudi Amal , Kartah Badr Eddine , Mazzah Ahmed , Mague Joel T. , Hökelek Tuncer , Kandri Rodi Youssef , Sebbar Nada Kheira
Published: October 2024

The title molecule, C25H23BrN2O2, adopts a cup shaped conformation with the distinctly ruffled imidazolidine ring as the base. In the crystal, weak C—H...O hydrogen bonds and C—H...π(ring) interactions form helical chains of molecules extending along the b-axis direction that are linked by additional weak C—H...π(ring) interactions across inversion centres. The Hirshfeld surface analysis of the crystal structure indicates that the most important contributions for the crystal packing are from H...H (51.0%), C...H/H...C (21.3%), Br...H/H...Br (12.8%) and O...H/H...O (12.4%) interactions. The volume of the crystal voids and the percentage of free space were calculated to be 251.24 Å3 and 11.71%, respectively, showing that there is no large cavity in the crystal packing. Evaluation of the electrostatic, dispersion and total energy frameworks indicate that the stabilization is dominated by the dispersion energy.
(In)visible Working Mama Drama: From Excellent to ‘Good Enough’ Academia and (M)Others
Authors: Edwards Michaela , Ridgway Maranda , Chen Gwen , Cooper Emily , Pass Sarah
Published: October 2024

The neoliberal, precarious, anatomized and audit‐centric academy produces an unfair burden on women academics. Academia, like many other organizational forms, demands unwellness. This paper argues that as well as intensifying the struggles of mothering academics like us, the pandemic also rendered us visible, forcing the body subject into view and, in doing so, offering some (albeit small) resistance to the ‘anatomizing urge’ in academia. Following discussions on agentic visibility, we propose the idea of agentic invisibility and a corresponding discussion of its loss during the pandemic. We argue that we could no longer choose to showcase what was excellent or to deliberately conceal what was not. Engaging in agentic visibility and invisibility tactics became very difficult, and this had many downsides, including the loss of liminal spaces and the difficulties in our private lives that were suddenly on display. What we choose to focus on, though, is a more caring future. Through the work of Donald Winnicott, we suggest that the difficult and sometimes painful spaces created by the pandemic forced us to reject excellence and to accept the ‘good enough’ as a way of being that should be respected. In this paper, we contribute to discussions concerning the reformative mode of ordering used by home‐working mothers during the pandemic. Though we cannot and will not speak for others, we use our dual roles as mothering academics to illustrate broader problems for others who continue to be marginalized by academia and for those who simply seek a more balanced engagement with academia. We seek an acceptance of the ‘good enough’ for all people, from those in power and from each other.
Effect of ultrasound combined with highland barley dietary fiber on gel properties of reduced‐salt chicken breast myofibrillar protein
Authors: Jiang Song‐Song , Li Qian , Wang Tao , Huang Yu‐Tong , Zong Lili , Meng Xiang‐Ren
Published: October 2024

This study aimed to investigate the effect of ultrasound combined with highland barley dietary fiber (HBDF) on the quality of reduced‐salt chicken breast myofibrillar protein (MP) gel. The molecular forces maintaining gel structure, the gelling formation process, and gel microstructure of different groups, two control groups (2% sodium chloride [NaCl] group, 1% NaCl group), and four treatment groups (0.3% HBDF+U5, 0.3% HBDF+U10, 0.5% HBDF+U5, and 0.5% HBDF+U10) were examined. Results indicated significant improvements (p < 0.05) in gel properties such as water‐holding capacity, textural characteristics, and color of the MP gel of the four treatment groups compared to Control 2 (1% NaCl) group. Furthermore, the second structural alterations were characterized by increase β‐sheet, β‐turn, and random coil structure contents in treatment groups, especially in 0.3% HBDF+U5 and 0.5% HBDF+U5 groups; in addition, the exposure of more hydrophobic groups and the formation of disulfide bonds and hydrogen bonds were promoted in treatment groups, thus enhancing protein aggregation and gel quality. Finally, compared to Control 2 (1% NaCl) group, more compact and uniform gel network structures and pores inside the composite gels were observed in treatment groups. In conclusion, the findings demonstrated that the application of ultrasound in combination with HBDF improved the gelling characteristics of reduced‐salt chicken breast MP gel, especially 0.3% HBDF+U5 and 0.5% HBDF+U5 groups.
Historical patterns of well drilling and groundwater depth in Arizona considering groundwater regulation and surface water access
Authors: Tadych Danielle E. , Ford Matthew , Colby Bonnie G. , Condon Laura E.
Published: October 2024

Arizona has a long history of groundwater use, and there is concern about long term groundwater sustainability across the state. We explore groundwater trends across Arizona and how they vary with respect to: (1) whether groundwater pumping is regulated, and (2) relative access to local or imported surface water. Well observations from the Arizona Department of Water Resources are used to quantify water table depth trends and groundwater drilling patterns. There are more than 85,000 groundwater wells in Arizona, and new wells are routinely being drilled. The number of new shallow wells (<200 ft) has decreased over time in all parts of the state. But midrange (200–500 ft) to deep (>500 ft) wells have increased in the past 10 years in regulated and groundwater dominated areas. Most wells are small with low pumping capacities that fall below the regulatory limit; however, there are still large wells being drilled in unregulated areas. Results show statewide decreasing water storage and groundwater levels. Groundwater declines are less severe in the parts of the state that have groundwater regulation. However, looking closer at this trend, groundwater recovery is strongest in areas receiving imported Colorado River water which also implement managed groundwater recharge with the imported water. Our findings indicate that groundwater recovery is very localized and driven more by managed recharge from surface water as opposed to decreased groundwater pumping.
Systematic review of environmental noise in neonatal intensive care units
Authors: Andy Liang , Fan He , Valerie Sung , Jing Wang
Published: October 2024

Aim

To systematically review the literature on noise exposure within the neonatal intensive care unit/special care nursery settings, specifically to describe: noise characteristics, sources of noise and ways of measuring noise.

Methods

Systematic searches were conducted through databases Medline, Embase and PubMed. Studies were included if they met the inclusion criteria (1) reported noise characteristics; (2) reported noise exposure measurements; (3) in the neonatal intensive care unit/ special care nursery settings. Methods and key findings were extracted from included studies. Quality analysis was done using a modified version of the Newcastle‐Ottawa Scale.

Results

We identified 1651 studies, screened 871, reviewed 112 and included 47. All reported NICU average equivalent sound levels were consistently louder than recommended guidelines (45 dB). The most consistent association with higher sound pressure levels were noise sources grouped under people congregation. Half of the studies did not use measuring devices adhering to international sound level meter (SLM) standards.

Conclusion

All NICUs exceeded recommended accumulative sound levels. People were the most consistent source of noise. Sound pressure levels need to be consistently measured with devices adhering to international SLM standards in future studies.
Plumbagin, a novel TRPV2 inhibitor, ameliorates microglia activation and brain injury in a middle cerebral artery occlusion/reperfusion mouse model
Authors: Ding Meihuizi , Han Rui , Xie Yiming , Wei Ziyi , Xue Shuwen , Zhang Fan , Cao Zhengyu
Published: October 2024

Background and Purpose

Transient receptor potential vanilloid 2 (TRPV2) is a Ca2+‐permeable non‐selective cation channel. Despite the significant roles of TRPV2 in immunological response, cancer progression and cardiac development, pharmacological probes of TRPV2 remain to be identified. We aimed to discover TRPV2 inhibitors and to elucidate their molecular mechanism of action.

Experimental Approach

Fluorescence‐based Ca2+ assay in HEK‐293 cells expressing murine TRPV2 was used to identify plumbagin as a novel TRPV2 inhibitor. Patch‐clamp, in silico docking and site‐directed mutagenesis were applied to investigate the molecular mechanisms critical for plumbagin interaction. ELISA and qPCR were used to assess nitric oxide release and mRNA levels of inflammatory mediators, respectively. si‐RNA interference was used to knock down TRPV2 expression, which was validated by western blotting. Neurological and histological analyses were used to examine brain injury of mice following middle cerebral artery occlusion/reperfusion (MCAO/R).

Key Results

Plumbagin is a potent TRPV2 negative allosteric modulator with an IC50 value of 0.85 μM, exhibiting >14‐fold selectivity over TRPV1, TRPV3 and TRPV4. Plumbagin suppresses TRPV2 activity by decreasing the channel open probability without affecting the unitary conductance. Moreover, plumbagin binds to an extracellular pocket formed by the pore helix and flexible loop between transmembrane helices S5 and S6 of TRPV2. Plumbagin effectively suppresses LPS‐induced inflammation of BV‐2 microglia and ameliorates brain injury of MCAO/R mice.

Conclusion and Implications

Plumbagin is a novel pharmacological probe to study TRPV2 pathophysiology. TRPV2 is a novel molecular target for the treatment of neuroinflammation and ischemic stroke.
Professionals' Insights on Supervision in Portuguese Residential Care
Authors: Magalhães Eunice , Cerdeira Joana
Published: October 2024

The scarcity of evidence on how supervision in the child protection system (CPS) is developed, specifically in residential care, calls for further research on this issue. The aim of this study is to provide new insights on staff perceptions in residential care about supervision's strengths, opportunities, threats and weaknesses, as well as their conceptions about the impact of supervision in this context. A total of 94 professionals (Mage = 28.20, SD = 12.21) participated in this qualitative study. Participants completed an online survey consisting of six open‐ended questions and a sociodemographic questionnaire. Qualitative content analysis was performed using MAXQDA software and descriptive statistics using IBM SPSS. Participants perceived that supervision provided knowledge and interpersonal skills, allowing staff to receive support and guidance. Obtaining an external perspective was highlighted as a significant value of supervision, and the main constraints were related to economic and labour demands. Participants considered that supervision positively impacts mainly staff performance and the quality of intervention, with only residual references to the impacts on children or on the organizational structure. These findings can inform policies and practices aimed at improving supervisory mechanisms and structures. Changes in the recruitment and selection of supervisors, as well as guidelines outlining the roles and functions of supervision in care settings, are required.
Ultrasonography‐Guided Dental Implant Surgery: A Feasibility Study
Authors: Nava Paolo , Sabri Hamoun , Calatrava Javier , Zimmer Jacob , Chen Zhaozhao , Li Junying , Wang Hom‐Lay
Published: October 2024

Objective

To evaluate the feasibility of ultrasound‐image‐based computer‐assisted implant planning and placement.

Materials and Methods

Intraoral scans, cone‐beam computerized tomography (CBCT), and ultrasound (US) scans with a custom positioning device were acquired in nine patients. Prosthetic‐driven surgical guides were planned and fabricated based on ultrasound images and intraoral scans. Implants were then placed. Postoperative implant position was obtained intra‐surgically by intraoral scan. Aside from the ultrasound‐based plan, conventional implant planning was performed by the same operator on a pre‐surgical CBCT for comparison. Linear deviations between ultrasound and CBCT‐planned implant positions were measured and compared with the intra‐surgical implant position, and the position deviations between two consecutive plannings were performed on the same CBCT by the same operator. The linear deviation between the 3D scan surface of the edentulous region and the ultrasonographic soft tissue profile segmentation was also assessed with reverse‐engineering software. Means, standard deviations, and root mean square differences (RMSD) were calculated for every variable.

Results

All the ultrasound‐planned implants were successfully placed, and no complications were recorded. The mean deviations in angles, shoulders, and apexes were 5.27 ± 1.75° (RMSD: 5.53°), 0.92 ± 0.26 mm (RMSD: 0.95 mm), and 1.41 ± 0.61 mm (RMSD: 1.53 mm), respectively, between the US and CBCT‐planned implants; 2.63 ± 0.43° (RMSD: 2.66°), 1.16 ± 0.30 mm (RMSD: 1.19 mm), and 1.26 ± 0.27 mm (RMSD: 1.28 mm) between the planned implant and intra‐surgically recorded positions; and 2.90 ± 1.36° (RMSD: 3.18°), 0.65 ± 0.27 mm (RMSD: 0.70 mm), and 0.99 ± 0.37 mm (RMSD: 1.05 mm) between two consecutive CBCTs planning performed by the same operator. The mean deviation between the 3D surfaces of model scans and ultrasound‐derived soft tissue profile in the edentulous area was 0.19 ± 0.08 mm.

Conclusions

Ultrasound‐guided implant surgery represents a feasible non‐ionizing alternative to conventional static guided implant surgical protocols for implant placement in sites with favorable characteristics.
The “right‐to‐farm” in Lac Saint‐Pierre (Québec, Canada) floodplains: Are problem‐framing processes able to foster conservation conflict resolution?
Authors: Lévesque Ann , Bissonnette Jean‐François , Dupras Jérôme
Published: October 2024

Using qualitative data, we investigate the impact of the problem‐framing process on stakeholder mobilization for fish habitat restoration and its influence on transforming agricultural practices in floodplains. Problem‐framing involves defining and delineating a problem to suggest practical and measurable solutions for addressing it. We are examining how the conservation conflict changes over time in Lac Saint‐Pierre (LSP), part of the St. Lawrence River Basin in Québec, Canada. Such conflicts arise when there are differing perspectives, interests, or actions regarding conservation goals and objectives. In recent decades, the LSP floodplain has undergone significant changes, particularly the conversion of perennial crops to intensive annual crops, which are deemed incompatible with the ecological needs of yellow perch. This species has experienced a notable decline in LSP since the 1990s, prompting Québec authorities to impose a moratorium on yellow perch fishing in 2012 to safeguard stocks. This moratorium has catalyzed efforts at the policy level to restore its habitat. However, it has also engendered tensions between agricultural activities and conservation endeavors aimed at restoring yellow perch habitat, constituting the conservation conflict under investigation. To investigate this issue, we adopt a post‐normal science approach characterized by reflexivity, inclusivity, and transparency in addressing epistemological and ontological uncertainties among LSP stakeholders. Our findings offer insights into stakeholders' perspectives on the problem‐framing process and its outcomes, highlighting both supportive actions enhancing the effectiveness of certain strategies among LSP stakeholders and barriers hindering their mobilization. These results underscore the importance of incorporating diverse stakeholder perspectives during the problem‐framing process to enhance the robustness of the science–policy interface.
Will the real carbon pricing please stand up?
Authors: Fugazza Marco , Neto David
Published: October 2024

This paper aims at extracting a common factor from major carbon pricing which is interpreted as an effective carbon pricing or a shadow pricing. For this purpose, we use a dynamic factor model for which the unobserved common factors and idiosyncratic noises are potentially nonstationary processes. The two‐step Kalman smoother procedure is used to estimate the model. We found (i) that the extracted common factor (i.e., the effective carbon pricing) exhibits very low values which range from 2.05 to 16.1 USD per ton, and more importantly, (ii) this factor does not cointegrate with the market prices. This last result highlights a total lack of integration of carbon markets.
KDBI special issue: Time‐series pattern verification in CNC turning—A comparative study of one‐class and binary classification
Authors: da Silva João Pinto , Nogueira Ana Rita , Pinto José , Curral Manuel , Alves António Correia , Sousa Ricardo
Published: October 2024

Integrating Industry 4.0 and Quality 4.0 optimises manufacturing through IoT and ML, improving processes and product quality. The primary challenge involves identifying patterns in computer numerical control (CNC) machining time‐series data to boost manufacturing quality control. The proposed solution involves an experimental study comparing one‐class and binary classification algorithms. This study aims to classify time‐series data from CNC turning machines, offering insight into monitoring and adjusting tool wear to maintain product quality. The methodology entails extracting spectral features from time‐series data to train both one‐class and binary classification algorithms, assessing their effectiveness and computational efficiency. Although certain models consistently outperform others, determining the best performing is not possible, as a trade‐off between classification and computational performance is observed, with gradient boosting standing out for effectively balancing both aspects. Thus, the choice between one‐class and binary classification ultimately relies on dataset's features and task objectives.
Assessment of the correlation between environmental variables and the spatial distribution and species structure of testate amoebae (Arcellinida and Euglyphida) in a stratified freshwater lake
Authors: Sysoev Vlad V. , Seleznev Dmitry G. , Reshetnikov Fedor Y. , Tikhonenkov Denis V.
Published: October 2024

Testate amoebae are unicellular organisms that occur worldwide in lacustrine habitats and have been widely used as proxies for palaeoreconstruction and bioindicators of contemporary ecosystems. Our knowledge of the environmental factors determining the spatial distribution of testate amoebae in stratified freshwater lakes remains limited.

The objective of this study was to assess the correlations between studied environmental variables and spatial distribution and species structure of testate amoebae communities inhabiting different limnological zones within a single lake basin along the depth gradient.

In our study, we used a multistation approach within one waterbody. We collected samples at five transects at five depths in four limnological zones, for a total of 69 samples from 24 sites. Redundancy and k‐means analysis distinguished four groups of samples associated with different environmental conditions.

Our results indicate that the distribution of testate amoebae species was correlated with a variety of factors. Along the depth gradient, the distribution of communities was primarily correlated with temperature, electrical conductivity and blue–green algal phycoerythrin. Within the littoral zone, the distribution of species either correlated with the sand content in sediments or was determined by the stochastic beginning of community assembly. In deepwater habitats, the distribution of species was correlated with the dissolved oxygen concentration, pH and concentration of the blue–green algal phycoerythrin.

We assume that bottom sediments in single stratified freshwater lakes in shallow and deep water zones represent two distinct biotopes for the formation of communities of testate amoebae, and assessing habitat and community differences in stratified lakes requires a multistation sampling approach.
Misinformation and perception of COVID‐19 and risk assessment among people in Pakistan: A pilot study
Authors: Eman Saima , Jha Ravi P. , Safdar Muhammad , Singh Mayank , Patel Priyanka , Javeria Ume
Published: October 2024

Background

During the coronavirus pandemic, misinformation was circulated through technology and social media on a large scale. Since people rely on media to keep connected and informed, misinformation can prevent them from staying safe.

Objectives

To examine the quality of information reaching Pakistanis, the effect of information/misinformation on people's perception, and its relationship with risky health behaviours in different demographical groups.

Methods

A community sample of N= 103 Pakistanis was assessed using a mixed‐method cross‐sectional survey research design to investigate their sources of knowledge/information, perceptions of coronavirus‐related facts, and risky health behaviours.

Results

Content analysis of the material that participants read/watched indicated the possible effect of media on people's perception of COVID‐19. Specific demography (e.g., increasing age) and people's tendency to believe misinformation/information may indicate risky health behaviours pertaining to coronavirus infection.

Discussion

Findings showed how the models considered (social cognitive theory, biological warfare conspiracy theory, theory of planned behaviour, protection motivation theory, the health belief model, and biopsychosocial model) may be relevant to examination of the effects of misinformation on different demographic groups.

Conclusion

The findings and models need to be verified on larger, more representative samples of Pakistanis using a large‐scale survey based on the insights obtained from this pilot study.
The trouble with trauma: Interconnected forms of violence in the lives of repeatedly criminalised men
Authors: Anderson Sarah
Published: October 2024

Focus on the interconnection of interpersonal violence, adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), trauma and justice‐involvement has increased interest internationally among policymakers and practitioners working within criminal justice contexts for ‘trauma‐informed’ approaches and interventions which facilitate recovery. This article discusses limitations of employing these concepts to make sense of the lives of criminal‐justice involved people. Drawing on UK‐based research using interviews and collage‐workshops to gather autobiographical narratives of 16 repeatedly‐criminalised men, a case vignette is presented to show the institutional and structural contexts of interpersonal violence, and the critical role of the criminal justice system (CJS) in obscuring and perpetuating violence. This raises doubt about the CJS's capacity to respond to trauma. The contribution of this article is to integrate theoretical conceptualisations of violence and empirical findings to critique the possibility of trauma‐informed practice (TIP) within a criminal justice context.
Kinetic and isotherm adsorption studies of Zn (II) ions on hydroxyapatite nanoparticles: Linear and nonlinear analyses
Authors: Ruellas Thamara Machado de Oliveira , Malafatti João Otávio Donizette , Paris Elaine Cristina , Giraldi Tania Regina
Published: October 2024

Rapid industrialization has led to significant environmental challenges, including the disposal of effluents with high zinc ion concentrations. This study investigates the use of hydroxyapatite nanoparticles as an adsorbent for Zn (II) ions from aqueous solutions at neutral pH. These nanoparticles are characterized by their high purity, mesoporous structure, and a specific surface area of 60.97 ± .40 m2 g−1. Their thermal stability was confirmed by thermogravimetric analysis, and zeta potential measurements indicated a surface charge close to the isoelectric point. Adsorption experiments showed that the kinetics fit well with the pseudo‐second‐order model, with a rate constant of 2.58 ± .49 min−1 mg−1 and a determination coefficient (R2) of 1.00. Isotherm analyses using Redlich–Peterson, Langmuir, and Freundlich models revealed the highest adsorption capacity and best fitting with the Redlich–Peterson model, showing maximum capacities of 30.36 mg g−1 (linear fitting) and 32.11 mg g−1 (nonlinear fitting). These fits achieved R2 values of .9949 and .9923, respectively, suggesting efficient and reliable adsorption profiles. This research highlights the potential of hydroxyapatite nanoparticles for effective zinc ion removal, supporting their application in sustainable industrial practices and environmental remediation.
Ethnic‐based score differences and differential prediction of various cognitive and noncognitive admissions instruments in higher education
Authors: van Lamoen Pieter M. , Hiemstra Annemarie M. F. , Meeuwisse Marieke , Arends Lidia R. , Severiens Sabine E.
Published: October 2024

Selective admissions in higher education based on preuniversity grade point average (pu‐GPA) can disadvantage ethnic minority students' admission chances. In this study, assessments of motivation and a curriculum‐sample test (CST) were compared with pu‐GPA by evaluating their effectiveness in mitigating ethnic‐based score differences while maintaining predictive validity over course grades. Data obtained from students (N = 306) in a high‐stakes admissions context were used. The motivation assessments and CST revealed no ethnic‐based score differences. Pu‐GPA and the CST were found to be positive predictors of the achievement of ethnic majority and ethnic minority students. The motivation assessments were poorly related to achievement. We conclude that CSTs show promise as a method for reducing ethnic‐based score differences in admissions procedures while maintaining predictive validity.
The sectoral consequences of private equity acquisitions: Spillovers in wages and employment
Authors: Eleftheriou Konstantinos , Wood Geoffrey , Ioakimidis Marilou , Komarev Iliya , Thomakos Dimitrios
Published: October 2024

Existing Industrial Relations (IR) research suggests that Private Equity (PE) takeovers may have profound effects on the target firm's industrial relations policies and practices, most notably in terms of security of tenure and relative proclivity to engage in redundancies. This study supplements the literature by exploring the effects of PE takeovers on other firms in the same industry. We find that PE takeovers increase the sensitivity of target firms to wage costs; when there is an upward pressure on wages, they respond by shedding jobs to a greater extent than their non‐acquired same‐sector competitors. However, workers in non‐acquired firms were less likely to move to a firm that had been acquired by PE, even if pay was more than sectoral rates. Even if there is a strong emphasis on restraining wage costs in the target firm, PE takeovers do not necessarily lead to the degradation of employment practices elsewhere in the sector; rather, they may provide competitors opportunities to entice talented and skilled employees from the target firm.
Enhanced electric breakdown strength and excellent storing density in BaTiO3‐based ceramic in viscous polymer processing
Authors: Zhao Xing , He Minghui , Zeng Xinyu , Li Qin , Wu Guanghua , Chen Fukang , Zhang Shaofei , Sun Jinfeng , Vtyurin Alexander N. , Yan Yan , Zhang Haibo , Liu Gang
Published: October 2024

Despite being the key component in modern electronic devices or power systems, ceramic dielectric capacitors have drawbacks like low energy storage density and efficiency that limit their extensively wide application. This work adopted a different route to improve energy storage performance compared with the frequently utilized composition modification. 0.98Ba0.65Sr0.245Bi0.07TiO3‐0.02Ce Pb‐free ceramics with different polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) contents were prepared through viscous polymer processing. The rheological and energy‐storing performance were systematically studied. It can be seen that high PVA content results in more pores and larger grain sizes that will deteriorate the breakdown strength of ceramics. The highest breakdown strength reached 420 kV/cm while the concentration of PVA was 5 wt%. The mechanism of grain sizes on breakdown strength is studied by electrical tree simulation based on COMSOL. Viscous polymer processing with proper PVA content is very effective in generating dense and homogenous structures. Finally, the ceramic with 5 wt% PVA possesses a high density of up to 4.41 J/cm3 and an efficiency of about 84.21% at 420 kV/cm. Simultaneously, this ceramic improved stability of both temperature (30–150°C) and frequency (1–300 Hz) at 350 kV/cm, while the η kept above 90% and Wrec exceeding 3.6 J/cm3.
Smart watch applications in atrial fibrillation detection: Current state and future directions
Authors: Vyas Rahul , Jain Shubhika , Thakre Anuj , Thotamgari Sahith Reddy , Raina Sameer , Brar Vijaywant , Sengupta Partho , Agrawal Pratik
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Atrial fibrillation (Afib) is a prevalent chronic arrhythmia associated with severe complications, including stroke, heart failure, and increased mortality. This review explores the use of smartwatches for Afib detection, addressing the limitations of current monitoring methods and emphasizing the potential of wearable technology in revolutionizing healthcare.

Results/Observation

Current Afib detection methods, such as electrocardiography, have limitations in sensitivity and specificity. Smartwatches with advanced sensors offer continuous monitoring, improving the chances of detecting asymptomatic and paroxysmal Afib. The review meticulously examines major clinical trials studying Afib detection using smartwatches, including the landmark Apple Heart Study and ongoing trials such as the Heart Watch, Heartline, and Fitbit Heart Study. Detailed summaries of participant numbers, smartwatch devices used, and key findings are presented. It also comments on the cost‐effectiveness and scalability of smartwatch‐based screening, highlighting the potential to reduce healthcare costs and improve patient outcomes.

Conclusion/Relevance

The integration of wearable technology into healthcare can lead to earlier diagnosis, improved patient engagement, and enhanced cardiac health monitoring. Despite ethical considerations and disparities, the potential benefits outweigh the challenges. This review calls for increased awareness, collaboration with insurance companies, and ongoing research efforts to optimize smartwatch accuracy and encourage widespread adoption of Afib detection. With insights from major trials, this review serves as a comprehensive reference for healthcare professionals and policymakers, guiding future strategies in the early diagnosis and management of atrial fibrillation.
Differences in odor preferences of glass eels of two sympatric anguillid eels, the Japanese eel Anguilla japonica and the Indo‐Pacificeel A. marmorata
Authors: Kumai Yusuke , Kuroki Mari , Yamakawa Takashi
Published: October 2024

Water‐choice experiments were conducted using glass eels of Anguilla japonica and A. marmorata, which coexist in subtropical East Asian rivers. The results of the present study, together with those of previous water‐choice experiments, suggest that salinity enhances the odor preferences of glass eels. Compared to A. marmorata glass eels, A. japonica glass eels were more strongly attracted to water collected from a leaf detritus‐accumulating backwater area than to normal river water under the same salinity conditions. These results suggest that interspecific differences in odor preferences may facilitate their habitat segregation.
Screening of Sensorial and Inflammatory Changes in Patients Submitted to Orthognathic Surgery
Authors: Simonetti Taíse , Tomasi Luisa A. , Fritscher Guilherme G. , Campos Maria M.
Published: October 2024

Background

Despite the high levels of success after orthognathic surgery, the immediate postoperative pain and edema, besides the neurosensorial deficits, are common complications.

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate the pattern of sensory and inflammatory responses in patients undergoing orthognathic surgery.

Methods

This prospective observational study included 20 patients undergoing bimaxillary orthognathic surgery, who were evaluated in the preoperative period and on Days 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 30 after surgery, using a battery of tests to assess sensorial and inflammatory changes.

Results

Subjective and objective evaluations of edema indicated a trend toward edema resolution within 30 days, with a significant decrease in mouth opening on days 1, 7, and 30 after surgery. Regarding nasal obstruction, a significant increase in Nasal Obstruction Symptom Evaluation (NOSE) scores was demonstrated on the first, second, and third days, returning to preoperative levels after 30 days. There was a significant increase in visual analogic scale (VAS) scores from the first to the seventh day after surgery, with a reduction within 30 days. For mechanical and thermal sensitivity tests, the lower lip and chin regions had poorer results, without recovery after 30 days. Positive correlations were observed between painful and inflammatory parameters, as well as between subjective and objective evaluations. Analysis of saliva biomarkers did not show significant differences for pre‐ and postoperative CCL3 or CCL4 levels.

Conclusion

Data provide new evidence about the early inflammatory and sensorial complications after orthognathic surgery.
Immunostaining for Mismatch Repair Complex Proteins Impacts on Clinical‐Pathological Characteristics and Prognosis of Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma of Salivary Glands
Authors: Magalhães Iana Aragão , Costa Gabriella Alves Julião , Crispim André Alves , Dantas Thinali Sousa , Sousa Fabrício Bitu , Bezerra Maria Júlia Barbosa , Silva Paulo Goberlânio de Barros
Published: October 2024

Objective

To evaluate the influence of MMR proteins on clinicopathological characteristics and prognosis of salivary gland adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC).

Method

The solid pattern of ACC showed lower expression for MSH2 (p = 0.039). Significant imbalance in MSH2/MSH6 immunostaining was observed in all histological patterns (p < 0.001), and imbalance in PMS2/MLH1 immunostaining was observed in the cribriform pattern (p = 0.011). The presence of capsule was associated with high expression of MSH6 (p = 0.019), MLH1 (p = 0.045) and PMS2 (p = 0.009). The absence of cribriform pattern (p = 0.002) and capsule pattern (p = 0.025), as well as low expression for MSH6 (p = 0.006) and PMS2 (p = 0.037) were associated with lower overall survival. In multivariate analysis, loss of MSH2 (p = 0.039) and MLH1 (p = 0.017) were significantly associated with worse overall survival.

Results

Twenty‐four ACC were clinical‐pathologically evaluated and we perform immunohistochemistry for MSH2, MSH6, PMS2 and MLH1. Percentage counting of positive cells was performed in 10 fields of each histological pattern (cribriform, tubular and solid) and the averages of the 30 fields were considered for evaluation with other clinical‐pathological variables (Kruskal‐Wallis/Dunn, Friedman/Dunn, chi‐square, Log‐Rank Mantel‐Cox tests and Cox regression; SPSS v20.0, p < 0.05).

Discussion

Salivary glands' ACC shows imbalance of the MMR complex and loss of expression of its components is associated with the overall survival of these patients.
MdNAC5: a key regulator of fructose accumulation in apple fruit
Authors: Zhang Bo , Yang Hui‐Juan , Li Ya‐Nan , Zhu Zhen‐Zhen , Zhao Zheng‐Yang , Yang Ya‐Zhou
Published: October 2024

The sweetness of apple fruit is a key factor in the improvement of apple varieties, with fructose being the sweetest of the soluble sugars, playing a crucial role in determining the overall sweetness of the apple. Therefore, uncovering the key genes controlling fructose accumulation and deciphering the regulatory mechanisms of fructose are vitally important for the improvement of apple varieties.

In this study, through BSA‐seq and transcriptome analysis of the ‘Changfu 2’ × ‘Golden Delicious’ F1 hybrid population, MdNAC5 was identified as a key regulatory gene for fructose content.

MdNAC5 was shown to significantly influence fructose accumulation in both apples and tomatoes. Furthermore, we conducted a detailed identification of sugar transporters and metabolic enzymes in apples, discovering that MdNAC5 can enhance fructose accumulation in vacuoles and the conversion of sucrose to fructose by binding to and activating the promoters of the vacuolar sugar transporter MdTST2 and the neutral invertase MdNINV6. Additionally, MdNAC5 regulated the MdEIN3.4‐MdSWEET15a module, strengthening the unloading of sucrose in the phloem of the fruit.

Our results reveal a new mechanism by which MdNAC5 regulates fructose accumulation in apples and provide theoretical foundations for improving apple sweetness through genetic modification.
Influence of climate, weather and floral associations on pollinator community composition across an elevational gradient
Authors: Coates Joshua , Evans Maldwyn , Scheele Ben , Encinas‐Viso Franciso , Florez Fernandez Jaime , Lumbers James , Cunningham Saul A.
Published: October 2024

Insect pollinators, which are ectothermic, are especially sensitive to abiotic conditions, which often drive predictable patterns of pollinator species turnover along environmental gradients. However, pollinator activity is also reliant on suitable biotic conditions, such as the presence of host plants. High‐elevation environments provide a useful setting to examine the relative contribution of abiotic and biotic factors in shaping species interactions as they are often characterised by strong environmental gradients over short geographic distances. Here, we examined pollination interaction networks across an elevational gradient from 930–2000 m a.s.l. in southern Australia, to determine the underlying patterns of pollinator activity and their interactions with flowers. Interaction frequency of Diptera increased at high elevations, while interaction frequency of Hymenoptera and Coleoptera decreased. We provide evidence that this elevational pattern of activity is partly driven by floral associations, with interactions dominated by Hymenoptera‐attracting plant families at lower elevations (Proteaceae, Fabaceae) and a Diptera‐attracting family at high elevation (Asteraceae). Pollinator activity was also influenced by weather conditions, with reduced activity for all three orders at lower temperatures, and Diptera active across the broadest range of temperature, humidity and wind conditions. We suggest that changes across elevation gradients in pollinator community composition are driven by both direct responses to abiotic conditions such as temperature, as well as the elevational distribution patterns of associated flowering plants. Despite these distinct shifts in composition of the pollinator assemblage with elevation, pollination network structure was stable across the elevational gradient, with moderate levels of specialisation and low levels of connectance and nestedness present across the gradient. By considering both abiotic conditions and biotic processes, our results provide insight for predicting the impacts of upslope vegetation shifts on pollinator communities in the face of climate change.
Role of cotyledons in aluminium accumulation as a tolerance strategy in Fagopyrum esculentum Moench (Polygonaceae) seedlings
Authors: Rodríguez‐Sánchez Verónica , Tapia‐Maruri Daniel , Márquez‐Guzmán Judith , Vázquez‐Santana Sonia , Cruz‐Ortega Rocío
Published: October 2024

Acidic soils have increased due to agricultural practices, climate factors, and the excessive use of nitrogen fertilizers to meet food demand. In these soils, aluminium (Al) is soluble and can be taken up by roots, but it is toxic to most plant species. Fagopyrum esculentum is able to adapt to acidic toxic aluminium conditions. Anatomical studies identifying novel potential cellular structures as sites of Al accumulation are currently lacking. This study provides an anatomical description of the cotyledons, revealing the presence of papillae and glandular trichomes at their margins. In seedlings treated with 100 μM Al, energy‐dispersive x‐ray spectroscopy (ESEM‐EDS) analysis of the cotyledons revealed that the margin has the highest concentration of Al. The margin containing the epidermal papillae was subjected to laser microdissection, and Al was quantified using mass spectrometry with an inductively coupled plasma source ICP‐MS and compared with the Al in the remaining leaf blades. The concentration of Al in the microdissected papillae was 3,460 mg Al kg−1 Dry Weight (DW), whereas the blades contained only 1,390 mg Al kg−1 DW. Moreover, histochemical tests for Al and total phenols in the epidermal papillae revealed that Al may be bound to phenolic compounds. Thus, this study demonstrated that the cotyledons of F. esculentum have epidermal papillae that can accumulate Al.
Shock Waves for Hair Growth and Regeneration in Patients With Female Pattern Hair Loss
Authors: Naranjo García Pablo , López Andrino Rodolfo
Published: October 2024

Background

Female pattern hair loss (FPHL) is women's most common form of alopecia. The study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of extracorporeal shock waves for hair growth and regeneration in women with FPHL.

Methods

A prospective single‐center noncontrolled study was conducted in patients with FPHL who underwent eight treatment sessions with C‐Actor, a shock wave applicator. Outcome measures included total hair count, number of follicular units (FUs)—single FUs, double FUs, triple and bigger FUs—the average thickness, cumulative hair thickness, and changes in the Derived Sinclair scale, assessed with Tricholab (Fotofinder System). Patients completed a survey to assess their subjective perceptions of hair improvement regarding softness, hair loss, quality, and volume.

Results

Twenty women were included with a mean age of 43 (SD = 5.65). The mean increase in total hair count was 8.9% (p < 0.00001), in number of FUs 4.6% (p = 0.00031), in number of triple and bigger FUs 18.4% (p = 0.0004), in cumulative hair thickness 8.0% (p < 0.00001), with a decrease of 5.7% in mean Derived Sinclair scale value by 2.2–2.1 (p < 0.0001). After 3 months, 85% of patients perceived improvement in hair volume.

Conclusion

Extracorporeal shock waves for hair growth and capillary regeneration in women with FPHL showed statistically significant outcomes, and all patients reported an improvement in hair characteristics.