bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Overview of glottic laryngeal cancer treatment recommendation changes in the NCCN guidelines from 2011 to 2022
Authors: Arboleda Lady Paola Aristizabal , Neves Aline Borburema , Kohler Hugo Fontan , Vartanian José Guilherme , Candelária Letícia Miliano , Borges Matheus Ferraz , Fernandes Gisele Aparecida , de Carvalho Genival Barbosa , Kowalski Luiz Paulo , Brennan Paul , Santos‐Silva Alan Roger , Curado Maria Paula
Published: June 2023

Background

The treatment of glottic cancer remains challenging, especially with regard to morbidity reduction and larynx preservation rates. The National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) has published guidelines to aid decision‐making about this treatment according to the tumor site, clinical stage, and patient medical status.

Aim

The present review was conducted to identify changes in the NCCN guidelines for glottic cancer treatment made between 2011 and 2022 and to describe the published evidence concerning glottic cancer treatment and oncological outcomes in the same time period.

Methods and Results

Clinical practice guidelines for head and neck cancer published from 2011 up to 2022 were obtained from the NCCN website (www.NCCN.org). Data on glottic cancer treatment recommendations were extracted, and descriptive analysis was performed. In addition, a review of literature registered in the PubMed database was performed to obtain data on glottic cancer management protocols and treatment outcomes from randomized controlled trials, systematic reviews, and meta‐analyses published from 2011 to 2022. In total, 24 NCCN guidelines and updates and 68 relevant studies included in the PubMed database were identified. The main guideline changes made pertained to surgical and systemic therapies, the consideration of adverse features, and new options for the treatment of metastatic disease at initial presentation. Early‐stage glottic cancer received the most research attention, with transoral endoscopic laser surgery and radiotherapy assessed and compared as the main treatment modalities. Reported associations between treatment types and survival rates for this stage of glottic cancer appear to be similar, but functional outcomes can be highly compromised.

Conclusion

NCCN panel members provide updated recommendations based on currently accepted treatment approaches for glottic cancer, constantly reviewing new surgical and non‐surgical techniques. The guidelines support decision‐making about glottic cancer treatment that should be individualized and prioritize patients' quality of life, functionality, and preferences.
How to assess and analyse session‐specific effects and predictors: An example with the Metacognitive Training for Obsessive‐Compulsive Disorder intervention
Authors: Miegel Franziska , Rubel Julian , Ching Terence H. W. , Yassari Amir‐H. , Bohnsack Frances , Duwe Maren , Jelinek Lena
Published: June 2023

It is essential to understand the effects of specific therapy elements (i.e., mechanisms of change) to optimize the efficacy of available treatments. There are, however, existing challenges in the assessment and analysis of constructs of interest. The present study aims to improve research on the effects of specific therapy elements using the example of the Metacognitive Training for Obsessive‐Compulsive Disorder (MCT‐OCD) intervention. Specifically, we introduce an innovative analytical method to identify predictors of treatment outcome and expand the assessment of common factors (e.g., coping expectations). A sample of 50 day‐ and inpatients with OCD was assessed before and after participation in an 8‐week MCT‐OCD programme. We investigated within‐session change in scores on revised questionnaires administered before and after each session. Linear mixed models (for session‐effects) and lasso regression (for prediction analyses) were used to analyse data. The revised assessments and data analyses showed greater improvement in dysfunctional (meta‐)cognitive beliefs over the time of the intervention and within sessions compared to previous MCT‐OCD studies. Some predictors, for example, improvement in coping expectation after the module on overestimation of threat for treatment outcome, were identified. The present study contributed to a better understanding of how to assess and analyse data of a modular intervention and demonstrated the strengths and weaknesses of different analytic approaches. Moreover, the analyses provided a deeper understanding of the specific effects and mechanisms of change of MCT‐OCD modules, which can be refined and examined in future studies.
Proteome‐Derived Peptide Libraries for Deep Specificity Profiling of N‐terminal Modification Reagents
Authors: Bridge Haley N. , Weeks Amy M.
Published: June 2023

Protein and peptide N termini are important targets for selective modification with chemoproteomics reagents and bioconjugation tools. The N‐terminal ⍺‐amine occurs only once in each polypeptide chain, making it an attractive target for protein bioconjugation. In cells, new N termini can be generated by proteolytic cleavage and captured by N‐terminal modification reagents that enable proteome‐wide identification of protease substrates through tandem mass spectrometry (LC‐MS/MS). An understanding of the N‐terminal sequence specificity of the modification reagents is critical for each of these applications. Proteome‐derived peptide libraries in combination with LC‐MS/MS are powerful tools for profiling the sequence specificity of N‐terminal modification reagents. These libraries are highly diverse, and LC‐MS/MS enables analysis of the modification efficiencies of tens of thousands of sequences in a single experiment. Proteome‐derived peptide libraries are a powerful tool for profiling the sequence specificities of enzymatic and chemical peptide labeling reagents. Subtiligase, an enzymatic modification reagent, and 2‐pyridinecarboxaldehyde (2PCA), a chemical modification reagent, are two reagents that have been developed for selective N‐terminal peptide modification and can be studied using proteome‐derived peptide libraries. This protocol outlines the steps for generating N‐terminally diverse proteome‐derived peptide libraries and for applying these libraries to profile the specificity of N‐terminal modification reagents. Although we detail the steps for profiling the specificity of 2PCA and subtiligase in Escherichia coli and human cells, these protocols can easily be adapted to alternative proteome sources and other N‐terminal peptide labeling reagents. © 2023 The Authors. Current Protocols published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol 1: Generation of N‐terminally diverse proteome‐derived peptide libraries from E. coli

Alternate Protocol: Generation of N‐terminally diverse proteome‐derived peptide libraries from human cells

Basic Protocol 2: Characterizing the specificity of 2‐pyridinecarboxaldehyde using proteome‐derived peptide libraries

Basic Protocol 3: Characterizing the specificity of subtiligase using proteome‐derived peptide libraries
Neutrality in Spain and Chile from the perspective of mediators: A literature review
Authors: Munuera Gómez Pilar , Valdebenito Larenas Caterine , Alemán Bracho Carmen , Molina Cano Jerónimo
Published: June 2023

This paper is based on the analysis of the importance given to neutrality in the intervention of mediators, with special emphasis on the legislation and codes of conduct followed by mediators in Spain and Chile. For this purpose, a review of the literature on neutrality has been carried out using various scientific databases and an analysis of the legislation in these countries. The aim of this analysis was to highlight the research carried out by mediation professionals on this issue and to propose possible solutions. Among the results achieved is the affirmation that neutrality is in the mediation process and not in the mediator. This reality is not reflected in ethical codes of conduct or in legislation. Therefore, it is proposed the need to elaborate a universal and accredited code of ethics, which would help to consolidate the current polyphony of voices on mediator neutrality in the countries where mediation is used. As mediation as a profession becomes more and more established, it is essential that the principle of neutrality be understood unambiguously. In contrast to the rules that appear in current legislation and in certain codes of conduct, mediators should not be subject to the constraints of achieving personal neutrality.
Stabilization of DC‐link voltage in single‐phase AC/DC converter with power factor correction using predictive control algorithm
Authors: Ojha Sandeep , Gupta Rajesh
Published: June 2023

This paper proposes a power factor correction (PFC) method in a single‐phase AC/DC converter using a predictive control algorithm (PCA) through a boost DC/DC converter. The minimum value of the DC‐link capacitor has been evaluated on the DC distribution side for stable operation of the converter. The proposed technique can be applied to the cascade connection of the converters, that is, the uncontrolled rectifier with boost converter and load. The value of the minimum capacitance is obtained as a function of the reference voltage of the DC‐link capacitor, the frequency of the supply, the input power, and the maximum DC‐link voltage. The proposed design is applied to control the boost converter for PFC applications using PCA at the minimum DC‐link capacitor value. The calculated value of DC‐link capacitance has been reduced to a greater extent as compared to the conventional calculation of DC‐link capacitance. The converter operation with the designed value of DC‐link capacitance has been verified through the MATLAB and Typhoon Simulink environment, and an experimental prototype model is used for the validation by using the FPGA based Typhoon HIL‐402 kit.
Gut brain regulation using psychobiotics for improved neuropsychological illness
Authors: Deepika  , Shukla Adarsh Kumar , Kumari Anita , Kumar Ashwani
Published: June 2023

“Psychobiotics” are a novel class of probiotics that are beneficial to the health and functional efficiency of our brain and psychology. The main hold on command in ill conditions of the brain and psychology is overtaken by these psychobiotic bacteria (a dietary supplement) via the action/determined role of bacterial neurochemicals or neuroactive substances that are released by them in the intestinal epithelium after their ingestion. Although these psychobiotics flourish in the gut of the host consuming them, the effect is widely spread to the brain due to the communication between the gut and the brain via the bidirectional gut–brain axis. The nervous system involved in this directional process includes both the enteric nervous system and the central nervous system. With time, several corroborations have proved the effectiveness of psychobiotics in terms of mental illnesses and brain disorders. In the prevailing situation of the coronavirus pandemic, psychobiotics may serve as an aid because a majority of the population worldwide is already suffering from psychological issues due to changes in lifestyle and dietary habits, and in need of an immediate solution to cope with it. Moreover, the in silico approach is also vital for the development of biological relevance to neurosubstances.
Association of sleep quality, its change and sleep duration with the risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus: Findings from the English longitudinal study of ageing
Authors: Song Yanjun , Chang Zhen'ge , Song Chenxi , Cui Kongyong , Yuan Sheng , Qiao Zheng , Bian Xiaohui , Gao Ying , Dou Kefei
Published: June 2023

Aims

This study aimed to evaluate the association of sleep quality and its long‐term change with the risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and to assess the relationship between sleep duration and the risk of T2DM according to categories of sleep quality.

Materials and Methods

5728 participants free of T2DM at wave 4 from the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing were included and received a follow‐up with a median time of 8 years. We created a sleep quality score to evaluate sleep quality, which was based on three Jenkins Sleep Problems Scale questions (the frequency of feeling hard to fall asleep, waking up at night, and feeling tired in the morning) and one question for rating overall sleep quality. Participants were allocated into three groups according to their baseline sleep quality scores (groups of good [4–8], intermediate [8–12], and poor quality [12–16]). Sleep duration was assessed by a self‐reporting sleep hours from each participant.

Results

411 (7.2%) T2DM cases were documented during the follow‐up. Compared with the good quality group, subjects with poor sleep quality showed a significantly higher risk of T2DM (hazard ratio (HR) 1.45, confidence interval (CI) 1.09, 1.92). In participants with good baseline sleep quality, those who experienced worsened sleep quality showed a significantly increased T2DM risk (HR 1.77, 95% CI 1.26, 2.49). Type 2 diabetes mellitus risk was not changed regardless of sleep duration in subjects with good quality. Short sleep duration (≤4h) was associated with an elevated T2DM risk in participants with intermediate sleep quality, and both short (≤4h) and prolonged sleep time (≥9h) were associated with an increased T2DM risk in the poor sleep quality group.

Conclusions

Poor sleep quality is correlated with an increase in T2DM risk, and regulating sleep quality to a good range could potentially be an effective approach for preventing T2DM.
Excavation compensation theory and supplementary technology system for large deformation disasters
Authors: He Manchao , Sui Qiru , Tao Zhigang
Published: June 2023

Given the challenges in managing large deformation disasters in energy engineering, traffic tunnel engineering, and slope engineering, the excavation compensation theory has been proposed for large deformation disasters and the supplementary technology system is developed accordingly. This theory is based on the concept that “all destructive behaviors in tunnel engineering originate from excavation.” This paper summarizes the development of the excavation compensation theory in five aspects: the “theory,” “equipment,” “technology,” the design method with large deformation mechanics, and engineering applications. First, the calculation method for compensation force has been developed based on this theory, and a comprehensive large deformation disaster control theory system is formed. Second, a negative Poisson's ratio anchor cable with high preload, large deformation, and super energy absorption characteristics has been independently developed and applied to large deformation disaster control. An intelligent tunnel monitoring and early warning cloud platform system are established for remote monitoring and early warning system of Newton force in landslide geological hazards. Third, the double gradient advance grouting technology, the two‐dimensional blasting technology, and the integrated Newton force monitoring––early warning––control technology are developed for different engineering environments. Finally, some applications of this theory in China's energy, traffic tunnels, landslide, and other field projects have been analyzed, which successfully demonstrates the capability of this theory in large deformation disaster control.
Comparison of root morphology and rhizosphere microbial communities form moso‐bamboo in different forest types
Authors: Liu Jingyu , Liao Huixuan , Fan Minghua , Zhou Ting , Peng Shaolin
Published: June 2023

Moso‐bamboo (Phyllostachys edulis), with the favor of human disturbance, rapidly invades adjacent forests to form monocultures in East Asia. Moso‐bamboo not only intrudes the broadleaf forests but also the coniferous, and it could impact by above‐ and below‐ground pathways. However, it still remains unclear whether the below‐ground performance of moso‐bamboo differs from broadleaf to coniferous forests, especially those differing in competitive and nutrient acquisition strategies. In this study, we investigated three types of forest stands in Guangdong, China, including a bamboo monoculture, a coniferous forest, and a broadleaf forest. We found that moso‐bamboo may suffer stronger soil P limitation (soil N/P = 18.16) and may be infected by more AMF in coniferous than broadleaf forests (soil N/P = 16.17). Based on our PLS‐path model analysis, soil P resource may be the key to differ moso‐bamboo root morphology and rhizosphere microbe in different forests: in broadleaf forests with weaker soil P limitation, may be realized through increasing specific root length and specific surface area, whereas in coniferous forests with stronger soil, P limitation may be realized through combining more AMF. Our study highlights the importance of underground mechanisms about moso‐bamboo expansion in different forest communities.
Combining multiple data sources with different biases in state‐space models for population dynamics
Authors: Polansky Leo , Mitchell Lara , Newman Ken B.
Published: June 2023

The resolution at which animal populations can be modeled can be increased when multiple datasets corresponding to different life stages are available, allowing, for example, seasonal instead of annual descriptions of dynamics. However, the abundance estimates used for model fitting can have multiple sources of error, both random and systematic, namely bias. We focus here on the consequences of, and how to address, differing and unknown observation biases when fitting models.

State‐space models (SSMs) separate process variation and observation error, thus providing a framework to account for different and unknown estimate biases across multiple datasets. Here we study the effects on the inference of including or excluding bias parameters for a sequential life stage population dynamics SSM using a combination of theory, simulation experiments, and an empirical example.

When the data, that is, abundance estimates, are unbiased, including bias parameters leads to increased imprecision compared to a model that correctly excludes bias parameters. But when observations are biased and no bias parameters are estimated, recruitment and survival processes are inaccurately estimated and estimates of process variance become biased high. These problems are substantially reduced by including bias parameters and fixing one of them at even an incorrect value. The primary inferential challenge is that models with bias parameters can show properties of being parameter redundant even when they are not in theory.

Combining multiple datasets into a single analysis by using bias parameters to rescale data can offer significant improvements to inference and model diagnostics. Because their estimability in practice is dataset specific and will likely require more precise estimates than might be expected from ecological datasets, we outline some strategies for characterizing process uncertainty when it is confounded by bias parameters.
Extra‐pair paternity, breeding density, and synchrony in natural cavities versus nestboxes in two passerine birds
Authors: Di Lecce Irene , Perrier Charles , Szulkin Marta , Sudyka Joanna
Published: June 2023

Most of what is known about extra‐pair paternity in hole‐nesting birds derives from studies using artificial nesting sites, such as nestboxes. However, it has rarely been investigated whether inference drawn from breeding events taking place in nestboxes matches what would be observed under natural conditions, that is, in natural cavities. We here report on a variation in promiscuity in blue tits and great tits nesting in natural cavities and nestboxes in an urban forest in Warsaw, Poland. Specifically, we tested whether local breeding density, local breeding synchrony, and extra‐pair paternity (inferred from SNP data generated with a high‐throughput genotyping by sequencing method) differed between birds nesting in natural cavities and nestboxes. In both blue tits and great tits, the frequency of extra‐pair paternity was similar between the two cavity types. In blue tits, we observed shorter nearest neighbor distance, higher neighbor density, and higher synchronous neighbor density (i.e., density of fertile females) in nestboxes relative to natural cavities. No such pattern was found in great tits. Moreover, we detected a positive relationship between the proportion of extra‐pair offspring in the nest and neighbor density around the nest in blue tits. Our results revealed that the provisioning of nestboxes did not change rates of extra‐pair paternity, suggesting that conclusions drawn from nestbox studies might adequately represent the natural variation in extra‐pair matings in some species or sites. However, the observed differences in spatiotemporal components of breeding dynamics highlight the fact that these parameters should be carefully considered when comparing mating behavior across studies and/or sites.
Metabolic obesity phenotypes and obesity‐related cancer risk in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey
Authors: Winn Maci , Karra Prasoona , Freisling Heinz , Gunter Marc J. , Haaland Benjamin , Litchman Michelle L. , Doherty Jennifer A. , Playdon Mary C. , Hardikar Sheetal
Published: June 2023

Introduction

Body mass index (BMI) fails to identify up to one‐third of normal weight individuals with metabolic dysfunction who may be at increased risk of obesity‐related cancer (ORC). Metabolic obesity phenotypes, an alternate metric to assess metabolic dysfunction with or without obesity, were evaluated for association with ORC risk.

Methods

National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey participants from 1999 to 2018 (N = 19,500) were categorized into phenotypes according to the metabolic syndrome (MetS) criteria and BMI: metabolically healthy normal weight (MHNW), metabolically unhealthy normal weight (MUNW), metabolically healthy overweight/obese (MHO) and metabolically unhealthy overweight/obese (MUO). Adjusted multivariable logistic regression models were used to evaluate associations with ORC.

Results

With metabolic dysfunction defined as ≥1 MetS criteria, ORC cases (n = 528) had higher proportions of MUNW (28.2% vs. 17.4%) and MUO (62.6% vs. 60.9%) phenotypes than cancer‐free individuals (n = 18,972). Compared with MHNW participants, MUNW participants had a 2.2‐times higher ORC risk [OR (95%CI) = 2.21 (1.27–3.85)]. MHO and MUO participants demonstrated a 43% and 56% increased ORC risk, respectively, compared to MHNW, but these did not reach statistical significance [OR (95% CI) = 1.43 (0.46–4.42), 1.56 (0.91–2.67), respectively]. Hyperglycaemia, hypertension and central obesity were all independently associated with higher ORC risk compared to MHNW.

Conclusions

MUNW participants have a higher risk of ORC than other abnormal phenotypes, compared with MHNW participants. Incorporating metabolic health measures in addition to assessing BMI may improve ORC risk stratification. Further research on the relationship between metabolic dysfunction and ORC is warranted.
MHz‐driven snubberless zero‐current soft‐switching high step‐up DC‐DC converter with a multi‐resonant tank
Authors: Mishima Tomokazu , Miyazaki Ryusei , Lai Ching‐Ming
Published: June 2023

A novel high step‐up DC‐DC converter suitable for the power interface of fuel cells (FC) is presented in this paper. The proposed converter features a multi‐resonant tank for achieving high‐step up ratio under zero current soft switching (ZCS) without any snubber circuits. The simple and minimized‐component topology is beneficial for megahertz driving of gallium nitride (GaN) power transistors with effective reductions of switching loss, electromagnetic emission interference (EMI) noise, and ripple‐free DC input current. Mode‐transitional power stages are described in detail, following that the high step‐up principle is revealed by means of frequency‐domain analysis. The essential performances of the proposed circuit topology are demonstrated by simulation and experiment of 1.8 MHz‐120W prototype whereby effectiveness of the snubberless and multi‐resonant topology are verified from the practical point of view.
Effects of de‐esterification treatment of lemon pectin on its stable capability against protein precipitation in acidified milk drinks
Authors: Liu Liandi , Peng Xiuyi , Song Xiaoxiao , Huang Han , Yin Junyi , Nie Shaoping
Published: June 2023

In this work, we extracted pectin from lemon peel and used pectin methyl‐esterase (PME) to obtain pectins with different degree of methyl esterification (DM). The effects of different de‐esterification treatments of lemon pectin (LP) on physicochemical properties, structural characteristics and its stable capability against protein precipitation in acidified milk drinks (AMDs) were systematically investigated. The results revealed that degree of methyl esterification (DM) decreased as the increasing of PME treatment time, whose DM values were 82.58%, 71.92%, 71.44%, 70.35%, 42.17%, and 32.54% for LP, LP‐E‐1, LP‐E‐2, LP‐E‐3, LP‐E‐4, and LP‐E‐5, respectively. There were no obvious differences in monosaccharide composition and molecular weight among the five fractions. The higher viscosities of LP‐E‐4 and LP‐E‐5 were probably attributed to the increase in zeta‐potential values and intrinsic viscosity, which would be explained by the removal of methoxy groups, resulting in stronger hydrogen bonds in solutions. Furthermore, LP‐E‐1, LP‐E‐2, and LP‐E‐3 had better AMDs stability against protein precipitation than LP, since they performed in better accelerated physical stability and storage stability, smaller particle size and lower Turbiscan stability index values. It suggested that PME de‐esterification on pectin could increase and concentrate its negative charges to wrap protein, while the remaining methoxy provides spatial resistance, both of which avoid protein precipitation.
Electrohydraulic Power Switching Control for Mechatronics–Electrohydraulic Power Coupling Electric Vehicles Considering Optimal Speed Thresholds
Authors: Yang Jian , Zhang Tiezhu , Zhang Hongxin , Hong Jichao
Published: June 2023

Switching between different working modes customarily brings sudden changes in torque and speed, leading to energy wastage for mechatronics‐electro‐hydraulic power coupling electric vehicles. Investigating the effect of vehicle speed thresholds on operating mode switching when working in concert with compound energy sources is timely. Thus, under the constraint of a known reference path, the optimal threshold is determined by weighing the path tracking accuracy and economic performance with the vehicle speed and the accumulator pressure as control variables. Wherein the constraint relationship between the factors is fully elucidated by combining various typical and actual road conditions. The validation results indicate a positive correlation between the starting acceleration capacity and the threshold value for a certain accumulator volume. The optimal speed thresholds under new European driving cycle, China light‐duty vehicle test cycle‐passenger, and actual routes are 4.1, 3.81, and 3.66 m s−1, with state of charge consumption rates of 6.30%, 8.56%, and 4.25%, respectively. More frequent speed switching may lead to excessive hydraulic power wastage, thereby increasing dependence on electrical power. Appropriate threshold setting can effectively enhance path tracking accuracy and hydraulic utilization under unpredictable road conditions. This research may in the future provide theoretical support for the rational control and interconstraint mechanism of energy utilization in hybrid vehicles.
Transient Evaluation of Wind‐Induced Vibration Response of Heliostat Under Downburst
Authors: Ji Baifeng , Xing Panpan , Xu Fan , Xiong Qian , Qiu Penghui , Liu Qimin , Tan Dongmei
Published: June 2023

As the region with the highest amount of solar radiation, Qinghai–Tibet Plateau has the highest frequency of thunderstorms in China. Downburst generated in thunderstorm can cause high‐intensive wind near the ground, which is a critical threat to heliostats. Herein, the impact of the wind loads on the heliostat response under downburst is investigated using a proven finite‐element model and the influence is also compared with that under atmospheric boundary layer (ABL) wind. The results demonstrate that the downburst development process, the movement of the storm center, and the heliostat's elevation angle are highly associated with the wind‐induced response characteristics of the heliostat under downburst. The maximum displacement and stress of the heliostat with different elevation angles under the downburst are significantly larger than those under ABL wind. Additionally, when the elevation angle of the heliostat is 30°, the maximum value of the mirror's first principal stress under downburst is 1.88 times greater than it is under ABL wind. Therefore, the impact of wind‐induced vibration caused by downburst is necessarily considered on the safety of heliostat in Qinghai‐Tibet Plateau with abundant solar energy resources and high incidence of downbursts.
Molecular Dynamic Simulations of Proton and Water Transport Mechanism in a Nafion Pore
Authors: Zhao Yao , Wang Gang , Chen Wei
Published: June 2023

Herein, nonequilibrium molecular dynamics simulations are conducted to study the hydraulic permeation and vehicle transport of protons in proton exchange membranes (PEMs) with different structures. The results indicate that water molecules and hydronium ions are transported in porous PEMs in the form of clusters. Water molecules are more concentrated in the bulk areas of pores, whereas hydronium ions had a high‐density profile near the pore surface areas since sulfonate ions of the side chain exhibit a stronger adsorption effect on hydronium ions. Due to the confined pore size, the slip flow of water molecules and hydronium ions occurs near the pore surfaces and it becomes more significant as side chain separation or pore size increases. As pore size decreases, the reduction of movement region and the deep attractive potential near the pore wall lower the specific enthalpy due to enhanced molecule‐wall collisions. In addition, the transport diffusivity coefficients of positively charged hydronium ions are smaller than that of water molecules due to the stronger Coulomb interactions and hydrogen bonding with negatively charged side chains. Transport diffusivity coefficients of water molecules and hydronium ions increase as pore size and side chain separation increase.
The Minimum Cost and the Highest Energy Efficiency of Major PtX Products: A Potential Analysis under Ideal Conditions
Authors: Salem Ouda
Published: June 2023

The transformation toward sustainable energy systems requires substantial amounts of H2 and PtX derivatives to mitigate severe consequences of climate change. Renewable energy will be the primary energy source in the future which will dictate the integration and energy efficiency of processes in various aspects of the industry. Herein, major PtX vectors are discussed, namely, methanol, ammonia, and sustainable aviation fuels. These products currently represent around 4% of the global anthropogenic CO2 emissions. The theoretical minimum feedstock of H2, CO2, and N2 required for these products is evaluated under ideal process conditions. Based on this simplified strategy, the lowest production costs and the highest theoretical energy efficiency achievable are evaluated. As a potential analysis, setting the boundaries can be technologically realized. A comparison with fossil‐based counterparts PtX is introduced, reflecting the need for a reasonable CO2 certification system and effective mechanisms to allow the successful market penetration of PtX vectors. The scale of production to cover the market demand of the addressed PtX vectors, in terms of electrolyzer capacity, is discussed. The verdict reflects the need to ramp up renewable power generation and electrolyzer capacities for a sustainable transition of the considered sectors based on PtX derivatives.
Solar Array Optimization Using Cryptographic Fibonacci Transformation for Global Power Enhancement and Ease of MPPT Controllers
Authors: Raj Rayappa David Amar , Naik Kanasottu Anil
Published: June 2023

The photovoltaic array reconfiguration approach is the most promising solution to enhance the global maximum power (GMP) and improve the array characteristics by mitigating the variation between distinct rows, thereby reducing the computational burden on maximum power point tracking systems. However, the majority of the existing reconfiguration approaches inherently have many drawbacks such as scalability issues, poor shade dispersion, distorted array characteristics, numerous power peaks, augmented mismatch, etc. In order to address these issues, this article proposes a novel integer‐based Fibonacci transform technique using the idea of image encryption for reconfiguration. The proposed strategy is tested for both symmetric and asymmetric photovoltaic (PV) arrays under 19 shading cases. Further, its performance is compared with the 23 existing techniques. Besides, a nonparametric Wilcoxon signed‐rank sum test with a significant difference (p‐value) of 0.05 is used to perform a pairwise unbiased comparison of all the techniques. Due to the discriminate shade dispersion through intelligent reconfiguration, the proposed strategy delivers consistently superior performance yielding the respective GMP enhancement of 34.43%, 12.5%, 5.06%, and 37.39%, 22.94%, 16.5% for 9 × 9, and 4 × 8 PV arrays under distinct cases. The proposed algorithm is further validated using the Levenberg–Marquardt neural network‐based MPPT controller for a 7 kWp standalone PV system.
Security concerns overIoTrouting using emerging technologies: A review
Authors: Kumar Ravinder , Malik Amita , Ranga Virender
Published: June 2023

The Internet of Things (IoT) provides a way to reach every hidden corner of the universe and provides valuable information for exploring the universe. With the advancement of hardware and computing technologies, IoT systems are developed based on systematically designed architectures. This paper discussed the routing protocol for low power lossy network (RPL) protocol's security vulnerabilities and proposed solutions. This review provides the main aspects of an IoT stack model with application, perception, and network layers. Then, the details and security concerns of the RPL protocol are given with the comparison of different frameworks. Different kinds of attacks, such as Wormhole, Sinkhole, and Denial of service attacks, are provided with the solution of defense‐based, threshold‐based, and trust‐supported based cryptography. Also, reviewed IoT security literature and focused on IoT security challenges and their solutions using emerging technologies like Machine Learning (ML), Blockchain, and Cloud Storage. A comparison and analysis of emerging technologies in the context of IoT security are also discussed. Due to the vulnerability of IoT devices, the scale of deployment, the attacks and suggested solutions are increased with scope and scale. In addition, related RPL‐based protocols are compared regarding energy efficiency, flexibility, scalability, robustness, and security. In the end, research challenges are identified, and future research direction for IoT security is suggested.
Numerical solutions to the Sharma–Tasso–Olver equation using Lattice Boltzmann method
Authors: Feng Yingxin , Dai Houping , Wei Xuedan
Published: June 2023

A novel numerical scheme depending on Lattice Boltzmann method is proposed to solve the Sharma–Tasso–Olver equation in one, two and three dimension. The local equilibrium distribution functions and modified functions are obtained via Taylor expansion and Chapman–Enskog multiscale expansion techniques. The macro equation is recovered accurately based on the above functions, and the stability conditions of the equations are deduced. In addition, through simulating numerically some of the initial‐boundary value problems of multidimensional STO equations, the results demonstrate that the numerical solutions and the exact solutions tend to be identical. It also indicates that the model is feasible within a specific range and provides a reliable the approach for solving the multidimensional STO equations.
Adult‐onset depletion of sulfatide leads to axonal degeneration with relative myelin sparing
Authors: Dustin E. , McQuiston A. R. , Honke K. , Palavicini J. P. , Han X. , Dupree J. L.
Published: June 2023

3‐O‐sulfogalactosylceramide (sulfatide) constitutes a class of sphingolipids that comprise about 4% of myelin lipids in the central nervous system. Previously, our group characterized a mouse with sulfatide's synthesizing enzyme, cerebroside sulfotransferase (CST), constitutively disrupted. Using these mice, we demonstrated that sulfatide is required for establishment and maintenance of myelin, axoglial junctions, and axonal domains and that sulfatide depletion results in structural pathologies commonly observed in Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Interestingly, sulfatide is reduced in regions of normal appearing white matter (NAWM) of MS patients. Sulfatide reduction in NAWM suggests depletion occurs early in disease development and consistent with functioning as a driving force of disease progression. To closely model MS, an adult‐onset disease, our lab generated a “floxed” CST mouse and mated it against the PLP‐creERT mouse, resulting in a double transgenic mouse that provides temporal and cell‐type specific ablation of the Cst gene (Gal3st1). Using this mouse, we demonstrate adult‐onset sulfatide depletion has limited effects on myelin structure but results in the loss of axonal integrity including deterioration of domain organization accompanied by axonal degeneration. Moreover, structurally preserved myelinated axons progressively lose the ability to function as myelinated axons, indicated by the loss of the N1 peak. Together, our findings indicate that sulfatide depletion, which occurs in the early stages of MS progression, is sufficient to drive the loss of axonal function independent of demyelination and that axonal pathology, which is responsible for the irreversible loss of neuronal function that is prevalent in MS, may occur earlier than previously recognized.
Self‐stabilizing maintenance process in plant communities of alpine meadows under different grazing intensities
Authors: Lin Li , Xu Xingliang , Cao Guangmin , Zhang Fawei , Li Yikang , Huang Junjie
Published: June 2023

Backgrounds

Grazing prohibition and reduced grazing intensity, as two important “vegetation close‐to‐nature recovery” methods, have been suggested as economical and effective technologies for enhancing forage production. However, numerous studies have found that the yield of forage could be increased by removing or reducing grazing in a short time in some steady stage of alpine Kobresia meadows, but not in others. To reveal the mechanism behind this phenomenon, we proposed a series of experiments.

Methods

We monitored the plant and soil characteristics in the key steady stages of Kobresia meadows under reduced and prohibited grazing conditions in the same geographic and climatic environments in the northeastern Qinghai‐Tibet Plateau for 6 years. We estimated the relationships between the plant community and soil nutrients and obtained the following results.

Results

All measured variables were positively correlated with each other. The plant community structure had higher path coefficients to aboveground biomass, soil organic matter, total nitrogen, and nitrate nitrogen than to other factors. The plant community structure played an important role in response to grazing intensity. Different plant functional groups (PFGs) had different responses to grazing intensity, which led to plant community re‐establishment or re‐organization under different grazing intensities. Poaceae and Kobresia were more sensitive to grazing intensity than other PFGs, and the ratio of Kobresia biomass (including Kobresia humilis and Kobresia pygmaea) to the total biomass of Poaceae and Kobresia could be used as an indicator of regime shifts within plant communities. With Kobresia pygmaea as the dominant species, the prohibition of grazing was not an efficient approach to increase the yield in the steady stages because this treatment needed more time to recover aboveground biomass. If Poaceae is the dominant PFG, grazing should only be prohibited for 3 years in the steady stages because the aboveground biomass will decrease if grazing is prohibited for more than 3 years.

Conclusions

Therefore, the different steady stages of alpine meadows require different recovery methods to increase recovery efficiency and speed.
Expanding Boundaries
Authors: Kaebnick Gregory E.
Published: June 2023

In this, the May‐June 2023, issue of the Hastings Center Report, articles and short pieces explore ethical issues found in the field of bioethics’ expanding boundaries and issues involving people who have been pushed to society's boundaries. In the lead article, Valerie Moyer, Amanda Zink, and Brendan Parent argue for allowing transgender kids to compete on sports teams that accord with their gender identity. Theodore Schall and Jacob Moses take a historical look at gender‐affirming care in the second article. They argue that a categorical distinction between trans and cis gender‐affirming care is unwarranted and that it draws on (and reinforces) unjust social attitudes about transgender people. The third article, by Coleman Solis et al., makes the case that, due to the economic, professional, and underlying social status of home care workers, the home care industry is not structured to provide the sort of care that should be its goal. And the last article, by Samuel Director, makes a carefully specified argument against the policies of nursing homes and similar facilities that prohibit residents who have dementia from engaging in sexually intimate interactions.
Examining the Ethics and Impacts of Laws Restricting Transgender Youth‐Athlete Participation
Authors: Moyer Valerie , Zink Amanda , Parent Brendan
Published: June 2023

As of this writing, twenty‐one states have passed laws barring transgender youth‐athletes from competing on public‐school sports teams in accordance with their gender identity. Proponents of these regulations claim that transgender females in particular have inherent physiological advantages that threaten a “level playing field” for their cisgender competitors. Existing evidence is limited but does not support these restrictions. Gathering more robust data will require allowing transgender youth to compete (rather than preemptively barring them), but even if trans females are shown to retain some advantage, this would not have greater moral significance than the many other “fair” physical and economic advantages found across sports. These regulations deprive transgender youth, an exceptionally vulnerable population, from the vast physical, mental, and social benefits of sports. While we advocate for transgender inclusion under our current, gender‐segregated model of sport, we propose changes to the overarching structure that would promote a more inclusive and fairer athletic environment.
Dementia and Concurrent Consent to Sexual Relations
Authors: Director Samuel
Published: June 2023

Philosophers have become newly interested in the ethics of sex. One promising feature of this new discussion is that it has been broadening our moral lens to include individuals whose sexual interests have historically been denied or ignored. One such group is the elderly. Contrary to popular belief, many elderly people want to have sex and see it as a regular part of their lives. If society harbors ignorance about or prejudice against elderly sexuality, it harbors stronger views against the sexual expression of elderly people with dementia. People with dementia are often prohibited by nursing‐home staff, sometimes in extreme ways, from having sex with their partners. This prohibition is at least partly motivated by the goal of protecting the vulnerable. However, cutting people with dementia off from sex has negative health effects and is a needless restriction of their autonomy. In this article, I argue that the expanding moral lens in sexual ethics should include the sexual expression of elderly individuals with dementia and that their sexual expression should be respected. Specifically, I argue that many people with dementia are competent to consent to sexual activity with their long‐term partners.
Australian adults’ attitudes towards government actions to protect children from digital marketing of unhealthy food and drink products
Authors: Nuss Tegan , Chen Yan Jun Michelle , Scully Maree , Hickey Katarnya , Martin Jane , Morley Belinda
Published: June 2023

Issue Addressed

This study assessed Australian adults' attitudes towards government actions to protect children from digital marketing of unhealthy food and drink products.

Methods

An online survey was undertaken by Australian adults aged 18–64 recruited via two national panels in December 2019 (N = 2044).

Results

Most respondents (69%) agreed the Government should protect children from unhealthy food and drink marketing and advertising broadly. Those who agreed most commonly indicated children should be protected up to age 16 (34%) or 18 (24%). There was widespread support for government actions to stop unhealthy food and drink marketing on digital platforms (e.g., internet sites) (68%–69%) and various digital marketing techniques (e.g., advertising by brands on social media) (56%–71%). A total ban on targeting unhealthy food and drink marketing to children online received the highest level of support (76%). Most respondents (81%) disagreed unhealthy food and drink companies should be able to collect children's personal information for marketing purposes. Support for examined actions was generally higher among older adults, more educated adults and more frequent internet users, lower among males, and similar between parents and non‐parents.

Conclusions

There is public perception that the government is responsible for protecting children, well into adolescence, from unhealthy food and drink marketing broadly. Widespread public support extends to specific actions to reduce children's exposure to digital marketing of unhealthy food and drink products.

So What?

Implementation of policies to protect children from digital marketing of unhealthy food and drink products would be well received by the Australian public.