bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Zinc Tetrapyrrole Coordinated to Imidazole Functionalized Tetracyanobutadiene or Cyclohexa‐2,5‐diene‐1,4‐diylidene‐expanded‐tetracyanobutadiene Conjugates: Dark vs. Light‐Induced Electron Transfer
Authors: Guragain Manan , Pinjari Dilip , Misra Rajneesh , D'Souza Francis
Published: September 2023

Using the popular metal‐ligand axial coordination self‐assembly approach, donor‐acceptor conjugates have been constructed using zinc tetrapyrroles (porphyrin (ZnP), phthalocyanine (ZnPc), and naphthalocyanine (ZnNc)) as electron donors and imidazole functionalized tetracyanobutadiene (Im‐TCBD) and cyclohexa‐2,5‐diene‐1,4‐diylidene‐expanded‐tetracyanobutadiene (Im‐DCNQ) as electron acceptors. The newly formed donor‐acceptor conjugates were fully characterized by a suite of physicochemical methods, including absorption and emission, electrochemistry, and computational methods. The measured binding constants for the 1 : 1 complexes were in the order of 104–105 M−1 in o‐dichlorobenzene. Free‐energy calculations and the energy level diagrams revealed the high exergonicity for the excited state electron transfer reactions. However, in the case of the ZnNc:Im‐DCNQ complex, owing to the facile oxidation of ZnNc and facile reduction of Im‐DCNQ, slow electron transfer was witnessed in the dark without the aid of light. Systematic transient pump‐probe studies were performed to secure evidence of excited state charge separation and gather their kinetic parameters. The rate of charge separation was as high as 1011 s−1 suggesting efficient processes. These findings show that the present self‐assembly approach could be utilized to build donor‐acceptor constructs with powerful electron acceptors, TCBD and DCNQ, to witness ground and excited state charge transfer, fundamental events required in energy harvesting, and building optoelectronic devices.
Mediation analysis of activities of daily living and kinesiophobia in association between cardiac function and health status of patients with chronic heart failure
Authors: Yifan Tang , Yanling Huang , Weiyun Wang , Xiaolin Hu , Zejuan Gu , Rong Wang , Chunhong Gao
Published: September 2023

Aims

To explore the mediational effect of activities of daily living (ADL) and kinesiophobia on the cardiac function and health status of patients with chronic heart failure (CHF).

Methods

From October 2021 to January 2022, a total of 244 CHF patients treated in the Department of Cardiology of general hospitals were recruited by the convenience sampling method. They were investigated with the Tampa Scale for Kinesiophobia Heart (TSK‐SV Heart), the Barthel index for assessing ADL, and the EuroQol five‐dimensional questionnaire (EQ‐5D) for assessing the health status.

Results

The cardiac function and kinesiophobia of CHF patients were both negatively correlated with their health status (r = −.390 and −0.410, respectively, both p < .01). Besides, the ADL of CHF patients was positively correlated with the health status (r = .320, p < .01). The cardiac function of CHF patients was negatively correlated with the ADL (r = −.412, p < .01), but positively correlated with kinesiophobia (r = .180, p < .01). The mediation proportion of ADL plus kinesiophobia between the cardiac function and health status of CHF patients was 43.48%. Both ADL and kinesiophobia partially mediated the effect of cardiac function on health status in CHF patients, but their mediational effects showed no significant difference (p = .777).

Conclusion

Both ADL and kinesiophobia exert obvious mediational effects between cardiac function and health status in CHF patients. Individualized cardiac rehabilitation (CR) programs based on the cardiac function, ADL and kinesiophobia of CHF patients may contribute to reduce the medical burden and improve the well‐being of affected people.
Oncology hospitalist impact on hospice utilization
Authors: Prsic Elizabeth , Morris Jensa C. , Adelson Kerin B. , Parker Nathaniel A. , Gombos Erin A. , Kottarathara Mathew J. , Novosel Madison , Castillo Lawrence , Gould Rothberg Bonnie E.
Published: September 2023

Background

Unplanned hospitalizations among patients with advanced cancer are often sentinel events prompting goals of care discussions and hospice transitions. Late referrals to hospice, especially those at the end of life, are associated with decreased quality of life and higher total health care costs. Inpatient management of patients with solid tumor malignancies is increasingly shifting from oncologists to oncology hospitalists. However, little is known about the impact of oncology hospitalists on the timing of transition to hospice.

Objective

To compare hospice discharge rate and time to hospice discharge on an inpatient oncology service led by internal medicine‐trained hospitalists and a service led by oncologists.

Methods

At Smilow Cancer Hospital, internal medicine‐trained hospitalists were integrated into one of two inpatient medical oncology services allowing comparison between the new, hospitalist‐led service (HS) and the traditional, oncologist‐led service (TS). Discharges from July 26, 2021, through January 31, 2022, were identified from the electronic medical record. The odds ratio for discharge disposition by team was calculated by logistic regression using a multinomial distribution. Adjusted length of stay before discharge was assessed using multivariable linear regression.

Results

The HS discharged 47/400 (11.8%) patients to inpatient hospice, whereas the TS service discharged 18/313 (5.8%), yielding an adjusted odds ratio of 1.94 (95% CI, 1.07–3.51; p = .03). Adjusted average length of stay before inpatient hospice disposition was 6.83 days (95% CI, 4.22–11.06) for the HS and 16.29 days (95% CI, 7.73–34.29) for the TS (p = .003).

Conclusions

Oncology hospitalists improve hospice utilization and time to inpatient hospice referral on an inpatient medical oncology service.

Plain Language Summary

Patients with advanced cancer are often admitted to the hospital near the end of life. These patients generally have a poor chance of long‐term survival and may prefer comfort‐focused care with hospice.

In this study, oncology hospitalists discharged a higher proportion of patients to inpatient hospice with less time spent in the hospital before discharge.
Acceptability, feasibility and preliminary efficacy of a compassion‐based cognitive behavioural intervention for low self‐esteem in sexual minority young adults
Authors: Bridge Livia , Langford Katie , McMullen Katrina , Rai Lovedeep , Smith Patrick , Rimes Katharine A.
Published: September 2023

Low self‐esteem can impair daily functioning and is a risk or maintenance factor for several mental health problems. Sexual minority young adults, for example, those identifying as lesbian, gay or bisexual, on average have lower self‐esteem than their heterosexual peers. Compassion‐based interventions for low self‐esteem might be especially beneficial for sexual minority young adults, whose higher levels of shame and self‐criticism are likely to be contributing to maintenance of their low self‐esteem. This study explored the acceptability, feasibility and preliminary efficacy of a new compassion‐based cognitive behavioural intervention for low self‐esteem tailored to sexual minority young adults. Participants were a community sample of 24 sexual minority young adults aged 16–24 experiencing clinically significant low self‐esteem. An uncontrolled pre‐/post‐design was used with qualitative feedback and quantitative outcomes. Self‐report standardised measures were completed at baseline, pre‐intervention, intervention mid‐point, post‐intervention and 2‐month follow up. Preliminary efficacy was examined through post‐intervention changes in self‐esteem, functioning, anxiety and depression. Potential mechanisms of change were examined through changes in self‐compassion, self‐criticism and unhelpful coping responses to minority stress. Results showed good acceptability and feasibility and preliminary evidence of intervention efficacy for improving self‐esteem, functioning, depression and anxiety. There was evidence for improvement in self‐compassion and reduction in self‐criticism, and these constructs could be investigated in future studies as treatment mediators. Randomised controlled studies are needed to further examine efficacy of the intervention.
An Indolin‐3‐imine Photobase and pH Sensitive Fluorophore
Authors: Doloczki Susanne , Kern Christoph , Holmberg Karl O. , Zhao Miao , Swartling Fredrik J. , Streuff Jan , Dyrager Christine
Published: September 2023

This work presents the pH sensing ability of a fluorescent indolin‐3‐imine derivative. Protonation of the weakly basic imine (pKa=8.3 of its conjugate acid) results in a significant red‐shift of the absorption band. The fluorophore acts as a photobase, with a basicity increase of approximately 6 units upon photoexcitation. This behavior promotes excited state proton transfer from weak acids such as protic solvents. The characteristics of the fluorophore enable sensing of water fractions in organic solvents and differentiation between methanol, ethanol, and longer chain alcohols. Initial cell studies indicated the future potential of indolin‐3‐imines as fluorophores for bioimaging applications.
CuBO2: A Potential Alternative for NiO as a Hole Acceptor Layer
Authors: Zhu Kaijian , Mul Guido , Huijser Annemarie
Published: September 2023

P‐type metal oxides, and in particular NiO, are typically used as hole accepting layers in dye‐sensitized photocathodes. Delafossites (CuMO2) with M=B, Al, Cr or Ga have recently been proposed as attractive substitutes for NiO, with theoretically a higher hole mobility than NiO, therefore allowing a higher efficiency when the photocathode is applied in solar to fuel devices. We have experimentally validated the photoelectrochemical performance of photocathodes consisting of nanoporous CuBO2 (CBO) on Fluorine‐doped Tin Oxide substrates, photosensitized with a light absorbing P1 dye. Femtosecond transient absorption and time‐resolved photoluminescence studies show that light‐induced hole injection occurs from the P1 dye into the CBO in a few ps, comparable to the time constant observed for NiO‐based photocathodes. Importantly, the CBO‐based photocathode shows significantly slower charge recombination than the NiO‐based analogue. These results illustrate the promise of CBO as a p‐type semiconductor in solar energy conversion devices.
DLX gene expression in the developing chick pharyngeal arches and relationship to endothelin signaling and avian jaw patterning
Authors: Sohail Afshan , Bendall Andrew J.
Published: September 2023

Background

A hinged jaw that articulates with the skull base is a striking feature of the vertebrate head and has been greatly modified between, and within, vertebrate classes. Genes belonging to the DLX homeobox family are conserved mediators of local signaling pathways that distinguish the dorsal and ventral aspects of the first pharyngeal arch. Specifically, a subset of DLX genes are expressed in the cranial neural crest‐derived mandibular ectomesenchyme in response to ventral endothelin signaling, an important step that confers the first arch with maxillary and mandibular identities. Downstream targets of DLX genes then execute the morphogenetic processes that lead to functional jaws. Identifying lineage‐specific variations in DLX gene expression and the regulatory networks downstream of DLX action is necessary to understand how different kinds of jaws evolved.

Results

Here, we describe and compare the expression of all six DLX genes in the chick pharyngeal arches, focusing on the period of active patterning in the first arch. Disruption of endothelin signaling results in the down‐regulation of ventral‐specific DLX genes and confirms their functional role in avian jaw patterning.

Conclusions

This expression resource will be important for comparative embryology and for identifying synexpression groups of DLX‐regulated genes in the chick.
New species based on the biological species concept within the complex of Lariophagus distinguendus (Hymenoptera, Chalcidoidea, Pteromalidae), a parasitoid of household pests
Authors: Pollmann Marie , Kuhn Denise , König Christian , Homolka Irmela , Paschke Sina , Reinisch Ronja , Schmidt Anna , Schwabe Noa , Weber Justus , Gottlieb Yuval , Steidle Johannes Luitpold Maria
Published: September 2023

The pteromalid parasitoid Lariophagus distinguendus (Foerster) belongs to the Hymenoptera, a megadiverse insect order with high cryptic diversity. It attacks stored product pest beetles in human storage facilities. Recently, it has been shown to consist of two separate species. To further study its cryptic diversity, strains were collected to compare their relatedness using barcoding and nuclear genes. Nuclear genes identified two clusters which agree with the known two species, whereas the barcode fragment determined an additional third Clade. Total reproductive isolation (RI) according to the biological species concept (BSC) was investigated in crossing experiments within and between clusters using representative strains. Sexual isolation exists between all studied pairs, increasing from slight to strong with genetic distance. Postzygotic barriers mostly affected hybrid males, pointing to Haldane's rule. Hybrid females were only affected by unidirectional Spiroplasma‐induced cytoplasmic incompatibility and behavioural sterility, each in one specific strain combination. RI was virtually absent between strains separated by up to 2.8% COI difference, but strong or complete in three pairs from one Clade each, separated by at least 7.2%. Apparently, each of these clusters represents one separate species according to the BSC, highlighting cryptic diversity in direct vicinity to humans. In addition, these results challenge the recent ‘turbo‐taxonomy’ practice of using 2% COI differences to delimitate species, especially within parasitic Hymenoptera. The gradual increase in number and strength of reproductive barriers between strains with increasing genetic distance also sheds light on the emergence of barriers during the speciation process in L. distinguendus.
An optimized hybrid methodology for short‐term traffic forecasting in telecommunication networks
Authors: Alizadeh Mousa , Beheshti Mohammad T. H. , Ramezani Amin , Bolouki Sadegh
Published: September 2023

With the rapid development of telecommunication networks, the predictability of network traffic is of significant interest in network analysis and optimization, bandwidth allocation, and load balancing adjustment. Consequently, in recent years, significant research attention has been paid to forecasting telecommunication network traffic. Telecommunication traffic forecasting problems can be considered a time‐series problem, wherein periodic historical data is fed as the input to a model. Time‐series forecasting approaches are broadly categorized as statistical machine learning (ML) methods and their combinations. Statistical approaches forecast linear characteristics of time‐series data, unable to capture nonlinear and complex patterns. ML‐based approaches can model nonlinear characteristics of data. In recent years, hybrid approaches combining statistical and ML‐based approaches have been widely used to model linear and nonlinear data characteristics. However, the performance of these approaches highly depends on feature selection techniques and hyper‐parameter tuning of ML methods. A novel hybrid method is proposed for short‐term traffic forecasting based on feature selection and hyperparameter optimization to address this problem. It combines statistical and ML methods to model linear and nonlinear components of data. First, a novel feature selection technique, modified mutual information based on a linear combination of targets, is proposed to find the candidate input variables. Next, a combination of vector auto regressive moving average (VARMA), long short‐term memory (LSTM), and multilayer perceptron (MLP), called VARMA‐LSTM‐MLP forecaster, is suggested to forecast short‐term traffic. A hybrid metaheuristic algorithm, composed of firefly and BAT, is employed to find the optimal set of hyper‐parameter values. The proposed method is assessed by a real‐world dataset containing Tehran city's daily telecommunication data in IRAN. The evaluation results demonstrate that the proposed method outperforms the existing methods in terms of mean squared error and mean absolute error.
Preparation, characterization and properties of linalool and acyclic cucurbit[n]urils inclusion complexes
Authors: Zhou Chao , Zhang Shuqing , Li Yamin , Wang Lutao , Liu Qingmeng , Si Tian , Yang Bo
Published: September 2023

Linalool is an important substance in the synthesis of fragrances owing to its unique aroma. However, the application of linalool is limited due to its low stability and rapid volatilization. Supramolecular inclusion technology plays an important role in improving the stability and volatility of fragrance and endows fragrance with excellent heat‐controlled release properties. In this study, inclusion complexes were prepared with two acyclic cucurbit[n]urils (M1 and M2) to improve the thermal stability of linalool, their binding behaviours were investigated by NMR, XRD, FT‐IR and Molecular Docking, confirming the formation of the host‐guest inclusion complexes. The stoichiometry of inclusion complexes was 1:1 by Job's plot and the binding constant was determined by fluorescence titration. The TG and heat‐controlled release experiment indicated that the inclusion complexes have higher thermal stability. This study provides a new idea and method for the development of linalool series spices.
Managing Expectations from Intensively Monitored Watershed Studies
Authors: Bisson Peter , Hillman Tracy , Beechie Tim , Pess George
Published: September 2023

Intensively monitored watershed (IMW) studies, the intent of which is to quantify habitat restoration effects on salmonid populations, have been underway in the Pacific Northwest, USA, for more than two decades. Lack of population-level response to habitat improvements by target species in some IMWs may be related to incomplete knowledge of factors regulating fish abundance, excessively prolonged restoration application periods, underappreciation of natural environmental and population variability, failure to carry out restoration at a sufficiently large scale within a watershed, lack of sufficient time to document a posttreatment response, or an actual failure of the restoration activities in those locations to achieve population recovery objectives. However, knowledge gained from IMWs has yielded important insight into (1) the long-term responses of salmon and steelhead Oncorhynchus mykiss to different types of restoration and (2) the importance of placing freshwater habitat improvements in the context of changes in anadromous salmonid survival and growth during other life history stages. Scientists, funding organizations, and policymakers should appreciate the potential value of IMWs as long-term barometers of the status of salmon populations and their habitats in watersheds where restoration activities are occurring. This requires a commitment to prolonged monitoring and an acknowledgment that environmental recovery after habitat restoration may take decades.
Synthesis of chromeno[4,3‐b]pyrrolidines from azomethine ylides and vinyl para‐quinone methides via (3 + 2) cycloaddition/oxa‐1,6‐addition
Authors: Wu Pei‐Shan , Liou Yan‐Cheng , Marri Gangababu , Chen Yi‐Ru , Wu Jia‐Rong , Lin Wenwei
Published: September 2023

An efficient synthesis of chromeno[4,3‐b]pyrrolidines has been successfully developed. This strategy involves a base‐catalyzed reaction of p‐VQMs and o‐hydroxy azomethine ylides via (3 + 2) cycloaddition/oxa‐1,6‐addition reaction sequence. The reaction condition is mild, and a series of chromeno[4,3‐b]pyrrolidines were obtained in 49‐95% yields with excellent diastereoselectivity (dr > 20:1).
Whole genome CRISPR screening strategy to identify genes contributing to SARS‐CoV‐2 spike and VSV‐G mediated entry
Authors: Hossain Md. Saddam , Kerkvliet Jason G. , Hoppe Adam D.
Published: September 2023

Understanding the cellular host factors that promote and inhibit viral entry is important for identifying viral countermeasures. CRISPR whole‐genome screens can be used to rapidly discover host factors that contribute to or impair viral entry. However, when using live viruses and cellular lethality for selection, these screens can identify an overwhelming number of genes without specificity for the stage of the viral infection cycle. New screening methods are needed to identify host machinery contributing to specific steps of viral infection. Here, we developed a CRISPR whole‐genome screen and counter‐screen strategy based on a pseudoviral platform that allowed identification of genes specific to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) spike and vesicular stomatitis virus glycoprotein (VSV‐G) mediated entry. Screening of SARS‐CoV‐2 spike and VSV‐G on the same lentiviral pseudovirus allowed the identification of entry‐specific genes relative to genes associated with retro‐transcription, integration, and reporter expression from the lentiviral pseudovirus. Second, a Cre‐Gag fusion protein packaged into the pseudovirus was used to bypass retro‐transcription and integration by directly activating a floxed fluorescent protein reporter upon entry  reduced the number of gene hits and increase specificity for viral entry. Our approach correctly identified SARS‐CoV‐2 and VSV‐G receptors ACE2 and low‐density lipoprotein receptors, respectively, and distinguished genes associated with retroviral reporter expression from envelope‐mediated entry. Moreover, the CRE‐Gag fusion/flox reporter increased the screen specificity for viral entry‐associated genes. Validation of a few hits demonstrates that this approach distinguishes envelope‐specific host factors from genes affecting reporter expression. Overall, this approach provides a new strategy for identifying host genes influencing viral entry without the confounding complexity of live‐viral screens which produce long gene lists associated with all aspects of viral pathogenesis and replication.
Role of human papillomavirus and associated viruses in bladder cancer: An updated review
Authors: Yao Xiangyang , Xu Zhenzhen , Duan Chen , Zhang Yangjun , Wu Xiaoliang , Wu Huahui , Liu Kai , Mao Xiongmin , Li Bo , Gao Yang , Xu Hua , Wang Xinghuan
Published: September 2023

Bladder cancer (BC) is a complex disease affecting the urinary system and is regulated by several carcinogenic factors. Viral infection is one such factor that has attracted extensive attention in BC. Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted infection, and although multiple researchers have explored the role of HPV in BC, a consensus has not yet been reached. In addition, HPV‐associated viruses (e.g., human immunodeficiency virus, herpes simplex virus, BK virus, and JC virus) appear to be responsible for the occurrence and progression of BC. This study systematically reviews the relationship between HPV‐associated viruses and BC to elucidate the role of these viruses in the onset and progression of BC. In addition, the study aims to provide a greater insight into the biology of HPV‐associated viruses, and assess potential strategies for treating virus‐induced BC. The study additionally focuses on the rapid development of oncolytic viruses that provide a potentially novel option for the treatment of BC.
Risk factors associated with COVID‐19 pneumonia in Chinese patients with pre‐existing interstitial lung disease during the SARS‐CoV‐2 pandemic
Authors: Shao Chi , Shi Yujie , Chen Ruxuan , Liu Xiangning , Huang Hui , Zhao Yang , Xu Kai , Chen Keqi , Wang Mengzhao , Xu Zuojun
Published: September 2023

In China, the emergence of a nationally widespread epidemic infection of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐COV‐2) has appeared within a month since December 7, 2022. To evaluate the risk factors for suffering from coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pneumonia due to infection with SARS‐CoV‐2 in different kinds of interstitial lung disease (ILD) patients with diverse immunizations, we conducted this retrospective study on 525 patients with ILDs who underwent regular follow‐up in our ILD clinic. Among them, 128 ILD patients (24.4%) suffered from COVID‐19 pneumonia after SARS‐CoV‐2 infection. Patients were older with a male predominance in the pneumonia group than in the nonpneumonia group (65.0 ± 10.0 years vs. 56.4 ± 11.7 years, p < 0.001, 55.5% vs. 39.5%, p = 0.002, respectively). Connective tissue disease‐associated ILD (CTD‐ILD) (25%), idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (23.4%), and interstitial pneumonia with autoimmune features (21.1%) were the main pre‐existing ILDs in the pneumonia group. In Cox multivariable analysis, only male sex and corticosteroid use were risk factors for COVID‐19 pneumonia after infection. Two or three doses of vaccination were a protective factor for pre‐existing ILD patients suffering from COVID‐19 pneumonia. More than two doses of vaccination were strongly recommended for pre‐existing ILD patients, particularly for males who were administered corticosteroids.
A Mesostructure Multivariant‐Assembly Reinforced Ultratough Biomimicking Superglue
Authors: Xu Jin , Cong Qian , Zhao Tiancong
Published: September 2023

The imitation of mussels and oysters to create high‐performance adhesives is a cutting‐edge field. The introduction of inorganic fillers is shown to significantly alter the adhesive's properties, yet the potential of mesoporous materials as fillers in adhesives is overlooked. In this study, the first report on the utilization of mesoporous materials in a biomimetic adhesive system is presented. Incorporating mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSN) profoundly enhances the adhesion of pyrogallol (PG)–polyethylene imine (PEI) adhesive. As the MSN concentration increases, the adhesion strength to glass substrates undergoes an impressive fivefold improvement, reaching an outstanding 2.5 mPa. The adhesive forms an exceptionally strong bond, to the extent that the glass substrate fractures before joint failure. The comprehensive tests involving various polyphenols, polymers, and fillers reveal an intriguing phenomenon—the molecular structure of polyphenols significantly influences adhesive strength. Steric hindrance emerges as a crucial factor, regulating the balance between π‐cation and charge interactions, which significantly impacts the multicomponent assembly of polyphenol‐PEI‐MSN and, consequently, adhesive strength. This groundbreaking research opens new avenues for the development of novel biomimetic materials.
On new approximations of Caputo–Prabhakar fractional derivative and their application to reaction–diffusion problems with variable coefficients
Authors: Singh Anshima , Kumar Sunil , Vigo‐Aguiar Jesus
Published: September 2023

This article is devoted to constructing and analyzing two new approximations (CPL2‐1 and CPL‐2 formulas) for the Caputo–Prabhakar fractional derivative. The error bounds for the CPL2‐1 and CPL‐2 formulas are proved to be of order and , respectively, where is the order of time‐fractional derivative. The newly developed approximations are then used in the numerical treatment of a reaction–diffusion problem with variable coefficients defined in the Caputo–Prabhakar sense. Moreover, the space variable in the developed numerical schemes, CFD1and CFD2, is discretized using a fourth‐order compact difference operator. Both schemes' stability and convergence analysis are demonstrated thoroughly using the discrete energy method. It is shown that the convergence orders of CFD1and CFD2schemes are and , respectively, where and represent the mesh spacing in time and space directions, respectively. In addition, numerical results are obtained for three test problems to confirm the theory and demonstrate the efficiency and superiority of the proposed schemes.
On the energy decay of a viscoelastic piezoelectric beam model with nonlinear internal forcing terms and a nonlinear feedback
Authors: Al‐Gharabli Mohammad M. , Messaoudi Salim A.
Published: September 2023

In this paper, we consider a piezoelectric beam model with nonlinear source terms and investigate the interaction between a viscoelastic damping and a nonlinear frictional damping. Under general assumptions on the relaxation function and the nonlinear feedback, we establish explicit formulae for the energy decay rates of this system and prove that the energy decays at a rate dictated by the weaker damping. Our results substantially improve some earlier related results in the literature.
Time‐efficient, high‐resolution3Twhole‐brain relaxometry using3D‐QALASwithwave‐CAIPIreadouts
Authors: Cho Jaejin , Gagoski Borjan , Kim Tae Hyung , Wang Fuyixue , Manhard Mary Kate , Dean Douglas , Kecskemeti Steven , Caprihan Arvind , Lo Wei‐Ching , Splitthoff Daniel Nico , Liu Wei , Polak Daniel , Cauley Stephen , Setsompop Kawin , Grant Patricia Ellen , Bilgic Berkin
Published: September 2023

Purpose

Volumetric, high‐resolution, quantitative mapping of brain‐tissue relaxation properties is hindered by long acquisition times and SNR challenges. This study combines time‐efficient wave–controlled aliasing in parallel imaging (wave‐CAIPI) readouts with the 3D quantification using an interleaved Look‐Locker acquisition sequence with a T2preparation pulse (3D‐QALAS), enabling full‐brain quantitative T1, T2, and proton density (PD) maps at 1.15‐mm3isotropic voxels in 3 min.

Methods

Wave‐CAIPI readouts were embedded in the standard 3D‐QALAS encoding scheme, enabling full‐brain quantitative parameter maps (T1, T2, and PD) at acceleration factors of R = 3 × 2 with minimum SNR loss due to g‐factor penalties. The quantitative parameter maps were estimated using a dictionary‐based mapping algorithm incorporating inversion efficiency and B1‐field inhomogeneity effects. The parameter maps using the accelerated protocol were quantitatively compared with those obtained from the conventional 3D‐QALAS sequence using GRAPPA acceleration of R = 2 in the ISMRM/NIST phantom, and in 10 healthy volunteers.

Results

When tested in both the ISMRM/NIST phantom and 10 healthy volunteers, the quantitative maps using the accelerated protocol showed excellent agreement against those obtained from conventional 3D‐QALAS at RGRAPPA = 2.

Conclusion

Three‐dimensional QALAS enhanced with wave‐CAIPI readouts enables time‐efficient, full‐brain quantitative T1, T2, and PD mapping at 1.15 mm3in 3 min at R = 3 × 2 acceleration. The quantitative maps obtained from the accelerated wave‐CAIPI 3D‐QALAS protocol showed very similar values to those from the standard 3D‐QALAS (R = 2) protocol, alluding to the robustness and reliability of the proposed method.
Relative quantification of progressive changes in healthy and dysferlin‐deficient mouse skeletal muscle proteomes
Authors: Golding Adriana E. , Li Wenping , Blank Paul S. , Cologna Stephanie M. , Zimmerberg Joshua
Published: September 2023

Introduction/Aims

Individuals with dysferlinopathies, a group of genetic muscle diseases, experience delay in the onset of muscle weakness. The cause of this delay and subsequent muscle wasting are unknown, and there are currently no clinical interventions to limit or prevent muscle weakness. To better understand molecular drivers of dysferlinopathies, age‐dependent changes in the proteomic profile of skeletal muscle (SM) in wild‐type (WT) and dysferlin‐deficient mice were identified.

Methods

Quadriceps were isolated from 6‐, 18‐, 42‐, and 77‐wk‐old C57BL/6 (WT, Dysf+/+) and BLAJ (Dysf−/−) mice (n = 3, 2 male/1 female or 1 male/2 female, 24 total). Whole‐muscle proteomes were characterized using liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry with relative quantification using TMT10plex isobaric labeling. Principle component analysis was utilized to detect age‐dependent proteomic differences over the lifespan of, and between, WT and dysferlin‐deficient SM. The biological relevance of proteins with significant variation was established using Ingenuity Pathway Analysis.

Results

Over 3200 proteins were identified between 6‐, 18‐, 42‐, and 77‐wk‐old mice. In total, 46 proteins varied in aging WT SM (p < .01), while 365 varied in dysferlin‐deficient SM. However, 569 proteins varied between aged‐matched WT and dysferlin‐deficient SM. Proteins with significant variation in expression across all comparisons followed distinct temporal trends.

Discussion

Proteins involved in sarcolemma repair and regeneration underwent significant changes in SM over the lifespan of WT mice, while those associated with immune infiltration and inflammation were overly represented over the lifespan of dysferlin‐deficient mice. The proteins identified herein are likely to contribute to our overall understanding of SM aging and dysferlinopathy disease progression.
The role of facebook support groups for women with benign urologic conditions
Authors: Farah Omar K. , Wang Connie N. , Chung Doreen E.
Published: September 2023

Objective

To understand the availability and content of patient support groups on social media platforms.

Materials and Methods

Five prevalent benign, urologic conditions affecting adult women were selected for analysis. Facebook support groups for these conditions were identified. Groups specific to one urologic condition and with at least 400 members were included, and groups for pediatric and malignant conditions were excluded. Each support group was analyzed for member count, posts per month, and period of activity. The 100 most recent posts in the largest support groups were manually reviewed and further categorized into content subsections.

Results

A total number of 56 Facebook support groups were identified that satisfied the inclusion/exclusion criteria. Interstitial cystitis (IC) had 25 groups (68 466 members; 4825 posts), pelvic organ prolapse (POP) had 14 groups (72 342; 3067), UTI had nine groups (36 414; 3204), overactive bladder and/or urinary incontinence (OAB/UI) had seven groups (8246; 306), urinary retention had one group (1168; 118). Across all groups, post content was predominantly informational support (77.6%). Remaining post content was both informational and emotional support (10.0%), emotional support only (7.6%), or unrelated to either informational or emotional support (4.8%).

Conclusion

Individuals with benign urologic conditions are utilizing social media support groups predominantly to seek and share informational support from patient peers. The number of existing groups as well as the level of activity and number of members within individual support groups varies significantly between different urologic conditions. This suggests that there is an unmet need for accessible informational content for patients who suffer with benign urological conditions.
Numerical study of conforming space‐time methods for Maxwell's equations
Authors: Hauser Julia I. M. , Zank Marco
Published: September 2023

Time‐dependent Maxwell's equations govern electromagnetics. Under certain conditions, we can rewrite these equations into a partial differential equation of second order, which in this case is the vectorial wave equation. For the vectorial wave equation, we examine numerical schemes and their challenges. For this purpose, we consider a space‐time variational setting, that is, time is just another spatial dimension. More specifically, we apply integration by parts in time as well as in space, leading to a space‐time variational formulation with different trial and test spaces. Conforming discretizations of tensor‐product type result in a Galerkin–Petrov finite element method that requires a CFL condition for stability which we study. To overcome the CFL condition, we use a Hilbert‐type transformation that leads to a variational formulation with equal trial and test spaces. Conforming space‐time discretizations result in a new Galerkin–Bubnov finite element method that is unconditionally stable. In numerical examples, we demonstrate the effectiveness of this Galerkin–Bubnov finite element method. Furthermore, we investigate different projections of the right‐hand side and their influence on the convergence rates. This paper is the first step toward a more stable computation and a better understanding of vectorial wave equations in a conforming space‐time approach.
Perspectives on self‐management of individuals living with chronic illnesses: A qualitative study in the Asian context
Authors: Tharani Ambreen , Van Hecke Ann , Ali Tazeen Saeed , Duprez Veerle
Published: September 2023

Living with a chronic illness requires individuals to perform a critical role in self‐managing their illness to improve their quality of life and prevent disease‐related complications. To our knowledge, no studies have explored how individuals perceive managing their illness in daily living within the Asian context. This exploratory‐descriptive qualitative study aimed to explore the individuals' perspectives regarding self‐managing their life with a chronic illness within the Asian context. Individual interviews were conducted with 15 adults living with chronic illness, from three teaching hospitals in Pakistan. An iterative process was followed for data collection and analysis. The analysis identified self‐management as complex and situation‐driven with variable roles for individuals, namely follower, selective follower, self‐permitting role, and active role. Three interrelated elements were found to be influencing these roles: the components of self‐management; individuals' relationship with agencies (significant people and power); and their inner drives. Individuals keep moving between these four self‐management roles to avoid disharmony and reciprocate the efforts of their significant others. The interdependent community structure, which is a reality in Asian society, was reflected in our data. With this in view, a great deal of authority was given to family relationships and healthcare professionals (HCPs). This study found a lack of collaborative partnership role between individuals and HCPs. The findings and a suggested conceptual figure can facilitate redefining the individuals' and professionals' roles in the healthcare system to promote collaborative partnership and improve individuals' experience of living with a chronic illness within the Asian context. Members of the research team have extensive experience in research around chronic illness management, and self‐management (support) from the Western context. The researcher did not need the patient or public contribution in this preliminary exploratory study from the Asian context.
Fetal de novo heterozygous variant in the isocitrate dehydrogenase 1 gene associated with growth restriction, skeletal, cerebral and vascular anomalies
Authors: Illi Clara , Koenigbauer Josefine , Henrich Wolfgang , Fangmann Laura , Reinhardt Charlotte , Ossmann Sophia , Weichert Alexander
Published: September 2023

Germline pathogenic variants in isocitrate dehydrogenase 1 (IDH1) can lead to a rare neurodevelopmental disorder called metaphyseal chondromatosis with D‐2‐hydroxyglutaric aciduria, including severe skeletal and cerebral anomalies. To the best of our knowledge, no prenatal case of an IDH1 pathogenic variant has been reported in literature. Somatic sequence variants in IDH1/2 genes are described in distinct cancers, premalignant diseases and rare inherited metabolic disorders. Amniocentesis and further genetic testing including trio exome sequencing were performed due to suspicious findings on a second trimester routine prenatal ultrasound examination. The fetus was found to have growth restriction, cerebral abnormalities (ex vacuo hydrocephalus, cerebellar and vermian hypoplasia, corpus callosum dysgenesis), brachycephaly, narrow chest, persistent left superior vena cava, liver calcifications, hyperechogenic bowel, short tubular bones and joint contractures. A de novo heterozygous variant in the IDH1 gene was detected via trio exome sequencing. The prenatal diagnosis of a de novo pathogenic variant in IDH1 in a fetus with the described phenotype, obtained through trio exome sequencing, helped parents and providers with an informed decision making about pregnancy management.
Identification of two novel MYH3 variants causing different phenotypes in prenatal diagnosis
Authors: Yang Yang , Zhang Wen , Wang Hao
Published: September 2023

The MYH3 gene encodes the embryonic myosin heavy chain, which is crucial for the skeletal and muscular development. The MYH3 variants are associated with distal arthrogryposis type 2A (Freeman‐Sheldon syndrome), distal arthrogryposis type 2B3 (Sheldon‐Hall syndrome), CPSFS1A (Contractures, pterygia, and spondylocarpostarsal fusion syndrome 1A) and CPSFS1B, which have some shared characteristics and great variability of clinical phenotypes. In this study, we report two novel MYH3 missense variants c.1024T>G (p.Phe342Val) and c.3872A>C (p.Gln1291Pro), demonstrating different phenotypes in the prenatal setting. This study expands the spectrum of MYH3 variants and supports the domain‐specific genotype‐phenotype correlation of MYH3.
Registration of ‘Ascend‐SD’ hard red spring wheat
Authors: Glover Karl D. , Kleinjan Jonathan , Graham Christopher , Ali Skaukat , Jin Yue , Ingemansen Jack , Turnipseed Errol Brent , Dykes Linda
Published: September 2023

Hard red spring wheat (HRSW; Triticum aestivum L). production in South Dakota has decreased by nearly 50% over a recent 10‐year timespan due to grower preferences for producing corn (Zea mays L.) and soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.]. End‐users of HRSW are concerned with grain protein concentration (GPC). Among growers that still produce HRSW, cultivar selection decisions are heavily based on grain yield potential, and they become most concerned with GPC only when it is low enough to result in sales price discounts. It is important that HRSW breeding programs release new cultivars that balance the needs of both end‐users and growers. The objective of this research was to release a HRSW cultivar possessing both high grain yield potential and GPC for South Dakota and regional producers. ‘Ascend‐SD’ (Reg. no. CV‐1204, PI 700966) was developed by the SDSU‐HRSW breeding program and released by the South Dakota Agricultural Experiment Station to certified seed producers in early 2022. The cross MN10261‐1/SD4389 was completed during fall 2013, and the resulting population was advanced via an early‐generation bulk‐testing program, where F4:7 seed was included in the 2018 preliminary yield trial and designated as SD4873. Prior to release, SD4873 also was tested in the advanced yield trial from 2019 through 2021 as well as crop performance testing trials in 2020 and 2021. Ascend‐SD was released for its competitive combination of high grain yield potential and GPC.
Bursicon regulates wing expansion via PKA in the oriental fruit fly, Bactrocera dorsalis
Authors: Zhou Zhi‐Xiong , Dou Wei , Wang Mo , Shang Feng , Wang Jin‐Jun
Published: September 2023

BACKGROUND

Bursicon is a heterodimeric neuropeptide that is involved in many physiological activities such as cuticle tanning, wing expansion, reproduction and immunity in insects. In this study, the role of bursicon in the wing expansion was investigated in Bactrocera dorsalis, an important invasive insect pest in agriculture.

RESULTS

The cDNA sequences and deduced amino acids of bursicon genes (named BdBurs‐α and BdBurs‐β) were determined, and two proteins typically contained 11 cysteine residues in conserved positions that were highly conserved in other insect species. The spatiotemporal expressions of bursicon genes showed that higher expression occurred at the pupal, early adult stage and ovaries, and lower expression at the late larval stage and in wing tissue (8‐day‐old pupae). Dysfunction of bursicon genes by dsRNA microinjection into 5‐day‐old pupae reduced PKA (a downstream component of the bursicon pathway) activity and resulted in malformed adult wings. PKA inhibitor injection into 5‐day‐old pupae also resulted in similar phenotypes. Hematoxylin & eosin staining of the adult wing showed that RNAi and PKA inhibitor treatment reduced the thickness of the wing cuticle, which wing cuticle thickness were ≈50% thinner than in the control. Furthermore, the expression of hedgehog (Bdhh) (one of 10 tested genes related to wing development) was significantly upregulated after RNAi and PKA inhibitor application.

CONCLUSION

The results indicate that bursicon plays a crucial role in the wing expansion of B. dorsalis, suggesting bursicon genes have potential to be the targets for B. dorsalis control. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Coexistence of terrestrial and non‐terrestrial networks on adjacent frequency bands
Authors: Sormunen Lauri , Martikainen Henrik , Puttonen Jani , Panaitopol Dorin
Published: September 2023

This paper presents the latest achievements concerning 3GPP Release‐17 adjacent band coexistence simulation work on 5G new radio non‐terrestrial networks (NTNs) for satellite communications. For the first time, 3GPP considered the introduction of mobile satellite service (MSS) frequency bands for 3GPP user equipment (UE) direct connectivity with satellites and had to consider the coexistence in adjacent bands with terrestrial networks (TNs). This paper will further explain the most challenging and the main surprising outcomes of this work, which opened new market opportunities for both terrestrial and non‐terrestrial stakeholders. The main conclusions can be summarized as follows: (1) NTN UE can reuse the current requirements of the TN UE, (2) the satellite connectivity does not require a dedicated satellite waveform, and (3) TN can co‐exist with NTN on adjacent channels with relaxed ACIR requirements for the tested simulation scenario.
Untangling the vicious cycle around water and poverty
Authors: García‐López Marcos , Cuadrado‐Quesada Gabriela , Montano Borja
Published: September 2023

Despite the recent improvements, there is still a problem of access to WASH services. This problem access is linked to poverty and inequality, which in turn cause difficulties in accessing water, thus creating a vicious cycle. This article analyses this vicious cycle using data from international organisations related to these issues. These data show how the lack of water access leads to limitations for households, which are deprived of employment or/and education due to the difficulty in obtaining water. This opportunity cost is the main mechanism through which the feedback between lack of access to water and economic poverty occurs. Not being able to obtain employment or/and education makes it impossible to get out of a precarious situation, which prevents the wider society to benefit from any economic gain, which in turn slows down the achievement of the goal of guaranteeing access to water for all. The responsibility lies with national and international institutions, which should not only focus on obtaining the necessary financial resources for infrastructure improvements, but also on having adequate governance to ensure water sustainability and equity.
Sustainable development according to 2030 agenda in European Union countries: Evidence of the enlargement policy
Authors: Ricciolini Elena , Tiralti Arianna , Paolotti Luisa , Rocchi Lucia , Boggia Antonio
Published: September 2023

This paper assesses the performance of European Union countries in achieving sustainable development using an assessment framework based on the 2030 Agenda. Through the application of the Spatial Sustainability Assessment Model, which integrates multi‐criteria analysis with the geographical tool QuantumGIS, European countries are classified according to the four basic dimensions of sustainability (social, economic, environmental, and institutional) organized into various sub‐dimensions, with reference to the year 2020. The results show that Northern countries have better overall sustainability performance in all dimensions except the environment. In contrast, Eastern European and Mediterranean countries perform worse, showing major weaknesses, especially in the economic and institutional dimensions, with a gap between the countries that joined the Union after 2004 and the other states. An in‐depth analysis was conducted to highlight the reasons behind these difficulties in order to give useful indications to public decision‐makers, as a tool for planning, on future choices.