bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quantifying Antibody Persistence After a Single Dose of COVID‐19 Vaccine Ad26.COV2.S in Humans Using a Mechanistic Modeling and Simulation Approach
Authors: Dari Anna , Boulton Muriel , Neyens Martine , Le Gars Mathieu , Valenzuela Belén , Shukarev Georgi , Cárdenas Vicky , Ruiz‐Guiñazú Javier , Sadoff Jerald , Hoetelmans Richard M. W. , Ruixo Juan José Pérez
Published: November 2022

Understanding persistence of humoral immune responses elicited by vaccination against coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) is critical for informing the duration of protection and appropriate booster timing. We developed a mechanistic model to characterize the time course of humoral immune responses in severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus‐2 (SARS‐CoV‐2)–seronegative adults after primary vaccination with the Janssen COVID‐19 vaccine, Ad26.COV2.S. The persistence of antibody responses was quantified through mechanistic modeling‐based simulations. Two biomarkers of humoral immune responses were examined: SARS‐CoV‐2 neutralizing antibodies determined by wild‐type virus neutralization assay (wtVNA) and spike protein‐binding antibodies determined by indirect spike protein enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (S‐ELISA). The persistence of antibody responses was defined as the period of time during which wtVNA and S‐ELISA titers remained above the lower limit of quantification. A total of 442 wtVNA and 1,185 S‐ELISA titers from 82 and 220 participants, respectively, were analyzed following administration of a single dose of Ad26.COV2.S (5 × 1010 viral particles). The mechanistic model adequately described the time course of observed wtVNA and S‐ELISA serum titers and its associated variability up to 8 months following vaccination. Mechanistic model‐based simulations show that single‐dose Ad26.COV2.S elicits durable but waning antibody responses up to 24 months following immunization. Of the estimated model parameters, the production rate of memory B cells was decreased in older adults relative to younger adults, and the antibody production rate mediated by long‐lived plasma cells was increased in women relative to men. A steeper waning of antibody responses was predicted in men and in older adults.
An updated review on systemic and targeted therapies for vitiligo
Authors: Maghfour Jalal , Hamzavi Iltefat H. , Mohammad Tasneem F.
Published: November 2022

Background

Vitiligo is a multifactorial disease characterized by depigmented macules and patches and is associated with a substantial disease burden. Systemic treatment of vitiligo is utilized for unstable or widespread disease.

Materials and Methods

In this review, we will examine the evidence regarding the systemic agents that are currently used in the management of vitiligo, discuss emerging targeted therapies, and evaluate potential future treatment perspectives.

Results

Although an array of systemic agents have been shown to halt disease progression in patients with vitiligo, their use is limited due to concerns regarding side effects and unclear efficacy. Targeted therapies such as topical ruxolitinib, a janus kinase inhibitor, has become the first and only FDA approved agent for repigmentation in patients with vitiligo.

Discussion

In recent years, significant progress has been made in understanding the molecular and genetic factors influencing disease pathogenesis, enabling the development of targeted therapies, such as janus kinase inhibitors. Additional ongoing clinical trials are likely to improve the disease outcomes and quality of life of patients with vitiligo.
How can sodium–glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors stimulate erythrocytosis in patients who are iron‐deficient? Implications for understanding iron homeostasis in heart failure
Authors: Packer Milton
Published: November 2022

Many patients with heart failure have an iron‐deficient state, which can limit erythropoiesis in erythroid precursors and ATP production in cardiomyocytes. Yet, treatment with sodium–glucose cotransporter 2 (SGLT2) inhibitors produces consistent increases in haemoglobin and haematocrit, even in patients who are iron‐deficient before treatment, and this effect remains unattenuated throughout treatment even though SGLT2 inhibitors further aggravate biomarkers of iron deficiency. Heart failure is often accompanied by systemic inflammation, which activates hepcidin, thus impairing the duodenal absorption of iron and the release of iron from macrophages and hepatocytes, leading to a decline in circulating iron. Inflammation and oxidative stress also promote the synthesis of ferritin and suppress ferritinophagy, thus impairing the release of intracellular iron stores and leading to the depletion of bioreactive cytosolic Fe2+. By alleviating inflammation and oxidative stress, SGLT2 inhibitors down‐regulate hepcidin, upregulate transferrin receptor protein 1 and reduce ferritin; the net result is to increase the levels of cytosolic Fe2+ available to mitochondria, thus enabling the synthesis of heme (in erythroid precursors) and ATP (in cardiomyocytes). The finding that SGLT2 inhibitors can induce erythrocytosis without iron supplementation suggests that the abnormalities in iron diagnostic tests in patients with mild‐to‐moderate heart failure are likely to be functional, rather than absolute, that is, they are related to inflammation‐mediated trapping of iron by hepcidin and ferritin, which is reversed by treatment with SGLT2 inhibitors. An increase in bioreactive cytosolic Fe2+ is also likely to augment mitochondrial production of ATP in cardiomyocytes, thus retarding the progression of heart failure. These effects on iron metabolism are consistent with (i) proteomics analyses of placebo‐controlled trials, which have shown that biomarkers of iron homeostasis represent the most consistent effect of SGLT2 inhibitors; and (ii) statistical mediation analyses, which have reported striking parallelism of the effect of SGLT2 inhibitors to promote erythrocytosis and reduce heart failure events.
Effects of empagliflozin on erythropoiesis in heart failure: data from the Empire HF trial
Authors: Fuchs Andersen Camilla , Omar Massar , Glenthøj Andreas , El Fassi Daniel , Møller Holger J. , Lindholm Kurtzhals Jørgen A. , Styrishave Bjarne , Kistorp Caroline , Tuxen Christian , Poulsen Mikael K. , Faber Jens , Køber Lars , Gustafsson Finn , Møller Jacob E. , Schou Morten , Jensen Jesper
Published: November 2022

Aims

It remains unknown whether the consistently observed increase in haematocrit with sodium–glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors is caused by diuresis‐associated haemoconcentration or increased erythropoiesis. We aimed to investigate the early effect of empagliflozin on erythropoiesis and iron metabolism in patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF).

Methods and results

The Empire HF was a double‐blind, randomized, placebo‐controlled trial. Patients with a left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) ≤40%, New York Heart Association (NYHA) class I–III symptoms, and on stable guideline‐directed HFrEF therapy were randomly assigned (1:1) to empagliflozin or matching placebo once daily for 12 weeks. Exploratory outcomes reflecting changes in erythropoiesis and iron metabolism were analysed. In total, 190 patients were randomized. Baseline characteristics were well‐balanced between the groups (age: mean 64 [± 11] years; male: 85%; LVEF: mean 29 [± 8)%; NYHA class II: 78%; type 2 diabetes: 13%; anaemia: 28%; chronic kidney disease: 13%). In this post hoc analysis, erythropoietin was increased with empagliflozin compared to placebo from baseline to 12 weeks (adjusted mean difference 2.6 IU/L, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.8–4.4; p = 0.0046). Moreover, hepcidin was reduced (adjusted ratio of change 0.76, 95% CI 0.59–0.97; p = 0.031), with no change observed for erythroferrone (adjusted ratio of change 1.17, 95% CI 0.86–1.60; p = 0.31) compared to placebo. No significant treatment‐by‐subgroup interactions were observed regarding baseline type 2 diabetes, anaemia, or chronic kidney disease (pinteraction >0.05).

Conclusion

These findings suggest that empagliflozin increases erythropoiesis and augments early iron utilization in patients with HFrEF. These mechanisms may contribute to the cardioprotective properties of empagliflozin.
Bifuntional Materials Containing Preyssler‐type Polyoxometalates and Iron Phenanthroline Stabilized with Poly (Allylamine Hydrochloride) for Electrochromic Energy Storage Devices
Authors: Liu Shuping , Zhang Jie , Song Yingying , Feng Suyang , Yang Yanyan , Qu Xiaoshu
Published: November 2022

Electrochromic supercapacitors have received extensive attention owing to their ability to combine electrochromism and energy storage properties. In this paper, a bifunctional electrode material based on Preyssler‐type tungstophosphate (P5W30), polyelectrolyte poly(allylamine hydrochloride) chain (PAH) modified by the iron complex (Fe(phen)3) was synthesized by Layer‐by‐Layer method (LbL). Compared with the film without PAH, the composite film displays large optical contrast (35.17 %), fast response time (2.49/0.90 s for coloring/bleaching), great coloration efficiency (94.73 cm2 ⋅ C−1) and high specific capacitance (10.45 mF cm−2). Moreover, the good cycling stability (83.66 % retention of the original optical modulation after 1500 cycles, capacity retention rate is 91.46 % after 500 cycles) is achieved. In addition, the composite film is also able to visually detect the energy storage level through reversible and rapid color changes, and further use it to assemble device. This work provides an promising candidate for electrochromic and energy storage devices.
Overcoming the Performance Limitation of Cs2AgBiBr6 Double Perovskites Using Bifacial Photovoltaic Design
Authors: Muzammil Isak , Adhyaksa Gede W. P.
Published: November 2022

Cs2AgBiBr6 is an encouraging example of perovskites which shows potential toward the development of more stable and nontoxic photoactive materials. However, relative to its necessarily large optical thickness, the material has substantially deficient electron diffusion lengths, which limit its photovoltaic efficiency. Herein, this problem is solved by designing a double‐sided semitransparent architecture for a Cs2AgBiBr6‐based photovoltaic material. In this case, the bifacial design deliberately creates an imbalance between the electron and hole densities, resulting in asymmetric lengths of carrier conduction near their respective transporting layers. Coupled optoelectronic simulations suggest that the use of the bifacial architecture results in an improvement of around 34% in the efficiency, from 3.47% to 4.64%, compared to the standard configuration. This method is effective to improve electron conduction in Cs2AgBiBr6, which is typically severe compared to its hole conduction. Finally, the strength of the correlation between the power conversion efficiency of the bifacial architecture and the diffusion length, asymmetric ratio of electron and hole conduction, and light albedo factor are explored. The results highlight some ways to improve the photovoltaic efficiency of Cs2AgBiBr6 above 8%, for instance, through tuning the surface recombination and band alignment between Cs2AgBiBr6 and the hole‐transporting layer.
Topological controls on catchment‐scale sediment dynamics
Authors: Walley Yasmin , Henshaw Alexander J.
Published: November 2022

The episodic transfer of sediment from source to sink is a fundamental process in fluvial systems that influences river morphology, aquatic and riparian ecosystems, and risk from a variety of associated natural hazards. The hierarchical structure of river networks has been identified as a key control on spatiotemporal patterns of sediment routing at the catchment scale, but very few studies have systematically explored this relationship. In this paper, we investigate the role that drainage network topology plays in modulating sediment flux and morphodynamic activity. We simulate the geomorphological responses of four topologically distinct catchments from New Zealand's South Island to sequences of flood events using a landscape evolution model. Spatiotemporal variation in different types of geomorphological activity is assessed via a link‐based framework, and potential interrelationships between within‐network changes and discharge and sediment yield at the catchment outlets are explored to provide insights into relative levels of network connectivity. We also investigate the occurrence of geomorphic ‘hotspots’ in relation to network topology, and their impact on the downstream transfer of sediment in different network ‘types’. Dissected networks were found to exhibit much greater spatiotemporal variability in geomorphological activity compared to narrow, elongated networks where change was concentrated in mainstem reaches. The frequency and significance of geomorphological hotspots are shown to vary between network types, with strong contrasts evident between dissected networks with steep topography and elongated networks with more gentle gradients. Dissected networks exhibited mostly non‐linear relationships between within‐network geomorphological activity and outlet discharge and sediment yield. However, moderate to strong linear relationships between these variables were observed in mainstem‐dominated networks, indicating much greater levels of connectivity across a range of flow conditions. We discuss the implications of these findings on the transformation of environmental signals through fluvial systems with different topological structures, and the differential responses of catchments to disturbance events.
Optimization of parallel implementation ofUNRESpackage for coarse‐grained simulations to treat large proteins
Authors: Sieradzan Adam K. , Sans‐Duñó Jordi , Lubecka Emilia A. , Czaplewski Cezary , Lipska Agnieszka G. , Leszczyński Henryk , Ocetkiewicz Krzysztof M. , Proficz Jerzy , Czarnul Paweł , Krawczyk Henryk , Liwo Adam
Published: November 2022

We report major algorithmic improvements of the UNRES package for physics‐based coarse‐grained simulations of proteins. These include (i) introduction of interaction lists to optimize computations, (ii) transforming the inertia matrix to a pentadiagonal form to reduce computing and memory requirements, (iii) removing explicit angles and dihedral angles from energy expressions and recoding the most time‐consuming energy/force terms to minimize the number of operations and to improve numerical stability, (iv) using OpenMP to parallelize those sections of the code for which distributed‐memory parallelization involves unfavorable computing/communication time ratio, and (v) careful memory management to minimize simultaneous access of distant memory sections. The new code enables us to run molecular dynamics simulations of protein systems with size exceeding 100,000 amino‐acid residues, reaching over 1 ns/day (1 μs/day in all‐atom timescale) with 24 cores for proteins of this size. Parallel performance of the code and comparison of its performance with that of AMBER, GROMACS and MARTINI 3 is presented.
Computationally rational design of metal‐involving halogen bonds with π‐covalency: Structures and bonding analysis
Authors: Zhang Congcong , Bai Han , Hu Junyuan , Guo Kai , Zhao Lili
Published: November 2022

Traditional π‐covalent interactions have been proved in the non‐metal halogen bond adducts formed by chloride and halogenated triphenylamine‐based radical cations. In this study, we have rationally designed two metal‐involving halogen bond adducts with π‐covalency property, such as [L1‐Pd···I‐PTZ]+(i.e., 1) and [L2‐Pd···I‐PTZ]+(i.e., 2), in which the square‐planar palladium complexes serve as halogen bond acceptor and 3,7‐diiodo‐10H‐phenothiazine radical cation (i.e., [I‐PTZ]•+) acts as halogen bond donor. Noncovalent interaction analysis and quantum theory of atoms in molecules analysis revealed that there are notable halogen bond interactions along the Pd···I direction without genuine chemical bond formed in both designed adducts. Energy decomposition analysis together with natural orbital for chemical valence calculations were performed to gain insight into their bonding nature, which demonstrated the presence of remarkable π‐covalent interactions and σ‐covalent interactions in both 1 and 2. We therefore proposed a new strategy for building the metal‐involving halogen bonds with π‐covalency property, which will help the further development of new types of halogen bonds.
Understanding undersociality: Intentions, impressions, and interactions
Authors: Kumar Amit , Epley Nicholas
Published: November 2022

Ratner et al. (2023) and Silver and Small (2023) raise deeply interesting questions about the broad consequences of increasing sociality, about people's ability to anticipate the outcomes of sociality, and about broader issues people may be considering when thinking of connecting with another person. We focus this response on the potential role of intentions and anticipated impressions in affecting undersociality, as well as the possibility of interactions that could moderate the gap between people's expectations of social engagement and their actual experiences. Many unanswered and important questions remain in need of critical empirical attention. We encourage future research that provides a better understanding of undersociality by focusing on intentions, impressions, and interactions.
Undersociality is unwise
Authors: Kumar Amit , Epley Nicholas
Published: November 2022

Wise decisions are often guided by an accurate understanding of the expected values of different possible choices. In social contexts, wisdom comes from understanding how others are likely to respond to one's actions, enabling people to make choices that maximize both their own and others' outcomes. Our research suggests that miscalibrated social cognition may create a systematic barrier to wiser decisions in social life. From expressing appreciation to offering support to performing acts of kindness, this program of research indicates that decisions to engage with others are driven by how people expect a recipient to respond, but that people consistently underestimate how positively others will respond to their other‐oriented actions. Because connecting with others consistently increases people's own wellbeing, miscalibrated social cognition may lead toundersociality: being overly reluctant to reach out and connect with others. Miscalibrated expectations about social engagement can create markets for products that help people overcome these barriers in order to consume their time, money, and effort more wisely.
Histomorphological, immunohistochemical, and ultrastructural study on ontogeny of ileocaecal lymphoglandular complexes in prenatal and postnatal Indian buffalo: An innate mucosal immune barrier
Authors: Kapoor Kritima , Singh Opinder
Published: November 2022

The present study was conducted on prenatal and postnatal development of lymphoglandular complexes (LGCs) in ileocaecal region of buffalo fetuses (n = 15) ranging from 11.5 cm curved crown rump length (CVRL) (80 days) to 100 cm CVRL (299 days) and neonatal buffalo calves (n = 10). The fetuses were categorized into three groups based on their CVRL. LGC formation was not evident in ileocaecal junction up to 32 cm CVRL (145 days). At 35 cm CVRL (152 days), diffuse lymphocytes were scattered around the base of glands that encircled them. At 54 cm CVRL (195 days), lymphoid aggregates were present in submucosa around deep submucosal glands and formed primordia of LGCs in ileocaeccal orifice region. At 100 cm CVRL (299 days), these complexes were completely visible grossly. The distinguished lymphoid nodules in submucosa were invaded by submucosal extensions of overlying mucosal glands to form a large clear complex of glands and lymphoid nodules called as “Lymphoglandular complex” at this stage. It is the first report of prenatal development of LGCs in large intestine of buffaloes. Abundant CD3+ T cells were observed towards periphery of LGC. In neonates, these complexes were uniform, few with demarcation into dark and light zones that is, germinal center formation. Lymphocytes interspersed in lamina propria were mainly CD3+ T lymphocytes. In conclusion, the development of LGCs in ileocaecal region started prenatally in terms of all its cellular components into completely developed and immunocompetent to generate mucosal immunity.
Chemical exchange in the vine shoots–wine system when used as an innovative enological procedure
Authors: Cebrián‐Tarancón Cristina , Fernández‐Roldán Francisco , Sánchez‐Gómez Rosario , Alonso Gonzalo Luis , Salinas María Rosario
Published: November 2022

BACKGROUND

Pruned vine shoots prepared as toasted fragments (SEGs) have recently been proposed as enological additives capable of producing differentiated quality wines. In this work, the composition of phenolic and volatile compounds of SEGs, before and after contact with wines, has been studied.

RESULTS

SEGs from Tempranillo and Cabernet Sauvignon were used, which were kept in contact for 30 days with red wines made with the same varieties. Phenolic compounds were the ones with the highest sorption in SEGs, but a variety‐dependent behavior was observed in anthocyanins and flavonols, with an increase in some malvidin derivatives only in Tempranillo wine and an increase in (−)‐epicatechin in SEGs and Cabernet Sauvignon wine. trans‐Resveratrol was transferred from SEGs to wine but also increased in SEGs regardless of the variety used. The volatile compounds that were most retained in SEGs were phenylethyl alcohol and ethyl lactate, but in lower proportions than the phenolic compounds and without important changes in wines.

CONCLUSION

The high content of phenolic compounds in SEGs after their use as enological additives suggests that they could be considered as a source of anthocyanins and as raw materials for phenolic compounds with recognized antioxidant properties. © 2022 The Authors. Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Study on pyrolysis behavior and kinetics of waste plastics with spent FCC catalyst
Authors: Shan Tilun , Wang Kongshuo , Bian Huiguang , Fan Fangshuo , Xiao Yao , Pan Yi , Tian Xiaolong , Wang Chuansheng
Published: November 2022

Pyrolysis is the most promising method for treating plastic waste since it can convert waste plastics into high value‐added products, which have significant application potential. In this study, kinetic and thermodynamic analyses of spent fluid catalytic cracking (FCC) catalysts were performed for testing their applicability in catalytic cracking of mixed plastics. Thermogravimetric analysis data were obtained at different heating rates under an inert atmosphere, and the synergistic effect between the mixed plastics and activation energy reduction before and after pretreatment of the spent FCC catalysts was discussed. Through a variety of model‐free methods (Flynn‐Wall‐Ozawa, Kissinger‐Akahira‐Sunose, Starink, and Kissinger methods), it is proved that the spent FCC catalyst facilitates the reduction in activation energy required for the pyrolysis of plastics, which is reduced by approximately 13% from 278 to 242 kJ/mol. The catalytic performance of spent FCC catalyst was improved after pretreatment, while its activation energy decreased by approximately 21% from 278 to 220 kJ/mol. The Friedman‐Reich‐Levi method was used to fit the curve, and the number of mechanism functions in plastic pyrolysis was determined according to the slope of the fitting curve. The C‐R method was used in combination with the Malek method to determine the optimal mechanism function. Moreover, kinetic parameters of the spent FCC catalyst for catalytic cracking of plastics were obtained via kinetic studies on the pyrolysis of mixed plastics, which provided theoretical guidance for industrialization of plastic pyrolysis.
Reclamation of ancient agricultural terraces in the Negev Highlands; soil, archeological, hydrological, and topographical perspectives
Authors: Sapir Tal , Mor‐Mussery Amir , Abu‐Glion Hiam , Sariy Gregory , Zaady Eli
Published: November 2022

Ancient terraced lands are considered badlands without profitable utilization except for urbanization. Nevertheless, this attitude prevents further agricultural utilization in addition to the loss of archaeological data. The study hypothesizes that the main influencing part in these systems is the retaining walls (RW). An analysis of their current influence on soil fertility, stability, and hydrology will indicate their adequate reclamation strategy. The objectives are to gather the influences and correlate them to the RW constructional state. In the Yeroham Hills, three parallel located terraced systems (one on the Wadi Shualim channel and the other, which is located on its banks) were studied. Their ancient agricultural utilization was dated, after in‐site excavations, to the Roman until early Islamic eras. Ten representative RWs were chosen, five from each terraced system. Their influences on the soil fertility, hydrology, and physical properties of the adjacent soil and 2 m ahead (the terrace) were studied. The finding indicates that the RW serves as a physical ecosystem engineer with positive influences on soil organic matter (0.5% higher content compared to the terrace) and land stability properties (maturated soil biocrust and higher aggregate stability). Comparison of the finding from both terraced irrigation systems, which differ in their conservation state, enables to determine the agricultural utilization and land stabilization after an adequate reclamation strategy, which is based on the RWs constructional parameters analyzed in‐site, and adaption to the current floodwater paths. The study's principles and analysis scheme enable the study and conservation of similar areas worldwide for increased utilization and profitability.
Remarks on the infinite‐dimensional counterparts of the Darboux theorem
Authors: Juszczyk Piotr , Kryszewski Wojciech
Published: November 2022

The Darboux theorem, one of the fundamental results in analysis, states that the derivative of a real (not necessarily continuously) differentiable function defined on a compact interval has the intermediate value property, that is, attains each value between the derivatives at the endpoints. The Bolzano intermediate value theorem, which implies Darboux's theorem when the derivative is continuous, states that a continuous real‐valued function
defined on
satisfying
and
, has a zero, that is,
for at least one number
. It has numerous counterparts in multivariate calculus as well as in the infinite‐dimensional setting. The present paper is devoted to the discussion of some infinite‐dimensional variants of the Darboux theorem, which does not seem to be sufficiently deeply discussed. The study relies on different notions of nonsmooth differentiability of real functions and some appropriate compactness conditions. Problems involving functionals bounded below, monotone operators, and some general questions concerning the existence of the so‐called generalized equilibria are discussed.
Dynamics and bifurcations of a discrete‐time Lotka–Volterra model using nonstandard finite difference discretization method
Authors: Eskandari Zohreh , Avazzadeh Zakieh , Khoshsiar Ghaziani Reza , Li Bo
Published: November 2022

A newly disclosed nonstandard finite difference method has been used to discretize a Lotka–Volterra model to investigate the critical normal form coefficients of bifurcations for both one‐parameter and two‐parameter bifurcations. The discrete‐time prey–predator model exhibits a variety of local bifurcations such as period‐doubling, Neimark–Sacker, and strong resonances. Critical normal form coefficients are determined to reveal dynamical scenarios corresponding to each bifurcation point. We also investigate the complex dynamics of the model numerically by Matlab package using MatcotM based on numerical continuation technique. The numerical continuation validates the theoretical analysis, which is discussed from an ecological perspective.
Toward a Flexible Future
Authors: Bhowmik Achin
Published: November 2022

New devices could pave the way for innovative display applications.
Imaging gypsum–anhydrite interface by a structure‐based conceptual resistivity model: A case study from Bala (Turkey) gypsum deposits
Authors: Akca Irfan , Hacıoğlu Özlem , Başokur Ahmet T.
Published: November 2022

Principal calcium sulphate rocks, such as gypsum and anhydrite, originate from evaporitic processes. Gypsum is considered an industrial raw material with high economic value, but anhydrite has no economic interest. Therefore, delineating the interface between sedimentary cover and gypsum, and differentiating gypsum from anhydrite has significant importance in the production planning of open pits. An electrical resistivity tomography study was carried out in the Bala gypsum formation (Central Anatolia, Turkey) to map the gypsum–anhydrite interface. Because open‐pit mining is economical up to a certain depth due to the cost of excavation, delineation of the upper boundary of gypsum is also necessary. As the survey's primary purpose is to delineate the interfaces of the sedimentary cover–gypsum and gypsum–anhydrite layers in shallow depths (50 m), a structure‐based model search scheme that includes a sequential use of global and local search methods has been applied for the derivation of the subsurface resistivity model. The conventional cell‐based conceptual model using the damped least‐squares inversion method is also used for comparison purposes. The strong resistivity contrast leads to an easy identification of cover and gypsum for both conceptual models. However, only the structure‐based conceptual model delineates the interface between gypsum and anhydrite. The estimated interfaces derived from the structure‐based model are consistent with the borehole data. This case history for gypsum investigation indicates the value of selecting an appropriate conceptual model for a specific exploration problem.
Sponge‐inspired multisensory hydrogel
Authors: Chen Kun , Liu Ruonan , Liu He , Lyu Tong , Wang Zhaoyang , Tian Ye
Published: November 2022

The preparation of smart sensors with multiple sensory systems, reusable property, and high sensitivity remains a challenge. Here, inspired by a sponge, we develop a multisensory PCA–poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA)/borax–LiCl hydrogel (named PPL hydrogel) with low cost and simple fabrication process using sodium polyacrylate (PAAS), PVA, and lithium chloride (LiCl) to address this challenge. PPL hydrogel has a sponge‐like porous structure and can repeatedly “absorb” and “drain” water, while maintaining good tensile (strain up to 1442%) and electrical conductivity. PAAS builds the main skeleton of PPL hydrogels and provides the basis for building the pore structure, PVA enhances the mechanical properties of the crosslinked network, while LiCl ionic solution further improves the conductivity, which can reach 8.8 s m−1 and be increased nearly 42 times better than without LiCl. Therefore, this makes PPL hydrogel a very sensitive sensing system for wearable devices that can be used to detect signals from the human body. Additionally, PPL hydrogel is also capable of detecting temperature due to its temperature‐sensitive properties. Moreover, PPL hydrogel can also roughly identify the basic properties of different solvents. Our simple, low‐cost and multisensory PPL hydrogel offers promising opportunities for multisensory sensors, even functional/smart materials, flexible/wearable devices, and medical care.
Correlation between asparaginase enzyme activity levels and coagulation parameters during childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia treatment
Authors: Højfeldt Sofie Gottschalk , Grell Kathrine , Hvitfeldt Lone , Wehner Peder Skov , Bjerre Jesper , Albertsen Birgitte Klug
Published: November 2022

Thromboembolism is a serious toxicity in the treatment of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), but little is known about the correlation between asparaginase enzyme activity (ASA) levels and coagulation parameters. We included 65 non‐high risk ALL patients, aged 1–17 years. Coagulation parameters and corresponding ASA levels were measured during asparaginase treatment. We found ASA to be negatively correlated with antithrombin and fibrinogen up to ASA levels of 250 IU/L, after which these parameters reached a plateau and did not decrease further with further increase of ASA. Patients with silent inactivation of asparaginase had normal coagulation parameters.
Anti‐glycoprotein autoantibodies are related to bleeding severity in children with newly diagnosed ITP and very low platelet counts
Authors: Dong Shuyue , Gu Hao , Zhang Jialu , Fu Lingling , Xie Xingjuan , Ma Jingyao , Ma Jie , Chen Zhenping , Wu Runhui
Published: November 2022

Background and objective

Immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) is an autoimmune‐mediated hemorrhagic disease. Anti‐glycoprotein autoantibodies play a key role in the pathophysiology of ITP, but the relationship between platelet‐specific antibodies and bleeding severity is unclear. This study aimed to analyze the relationship between anti‐glycoprotein autoantibodies and bleeding severity in children with newly diagnosed ITP and platelet count less than 10 × 109/L.

Method

This was a single‐center prospective observational study that analyzed children with newly diagnosed ITP and platelet count less than 10 × 109/L between June 2018 and September 2021 at our hospital. The children were classified into the mild and severe groups based on the bleeding scores. The type and titer of anti‐glycoprotein autoantibodies were detected using an enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kit (PAKAUTO). We analyzed the relationship between bleeding severity and anti‐glycoprotein autoantibodies.

Results

A total of 86 cases were enrolled, including 42 in the mild group and 44 in the severe group. Patients with anti‐GPIIb/IIIa or anti‐GPIb/IX antibodies suffered more severe bleeding than patients without them (χ2 = 7.303, p = .007; χ2 = 3.875, p = .049), but there was no significant difference between patients with or without anti‐GPIa/IIa antibodies (χ2 = 0.745, p = .388). When antibodies were analyzed together, patients with three antibodies suffered more severe bleeding than those without three antibodies (χ2 = 5.053, p = .025). Patients with higher antibody titer in the eluent, but not in the plasma, suffered more severe bleeding in all three antibodies (Z = −2.389, p = .017; Z = −2.108, p = .035; Z = −2.557, p = .011).

Conclusion

Anti‐glycoprotein autoantibodies led to more severe bleeding in children under 18 years of age without drug treatment with newly diagnosed ITP and platelet count less than 10 × 109/L.
Live‐cell imaging of the chloroplast outer envelope membrane using fluorescent dyes
Authors: Ichikawa Shintaro , Ishikawa Kazuya , Miyakawa Hitoshi , Kodama Yutaka
Published: November 2022

Chloroplasts are organelles composed of sub‐organellar compartments—stroma, thylakoids, and starch granules—and are surrounded by outer and inner envelope membranes (OEM and IEM, respectively). The chloroplast OEM and IEM play key roles not only as a barrier separating the chloroplast components from the cytosol but also in the interchange of numerous metabolites and proteins between the chloroplast interior and the cytosol. Fluorescent protein markers for the chloroplast OEM have been widely used to visualize the outermost border of chloroplasts. However, the use of marker proteins requires an established cellular genetic transformation method, which limits the plant species in which marker proteins can be used. Moreover, the high accumulation of OEM marker proteins often elicits abnormal morphological phenotypes of the OEM. Because the OEM can currently only be visualized using exogenous marker proteins, the behaviors of the chloroplast and/or its OEM remain unknown in wild‐type cells of various plant species. Here, we visualized the OEM using live‐cell staining with the fluorescent dyes rhodamine B and Nile red in several plant species, including crops. We propose rhodamine B and Nile red as new tools for visualizing the chloroplast OEM in living plant cells that do not require genetic transformation.

Significance Statement

We established a live‐cell imaging method to visualize the chloroplast outer envelope membrane by staining living cells with fluorescent dyes. This method does not require genetic transformation and allows the observation of the chloroplast outer envelope membrane in various plant species.
SARS‐CoV‐2 spike protein capture by peptide functionalized networks
Authors: Rahman Monica S. , Rajawasam Chamoni W. H. , De Alwis Watuthanthrige Nethmi , Sparks Jessica L. , Page Richard C. , Konkolewicz Dominik
Published: November 2022

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) has significantly impacted human health, the global economy, and society. Viruses residing on common surfaces represent a potential source of contamination for the general population. Spike binding peptide 1, SBP1 is a 23 amino acid peptide, which has micromolar binding affinity (1.3 μM) towards the spike protein receptor‐binding domain. We hypothesize that if we can covalently immobilize this SBP1 peptide in a covalent crosslinked network system, we can develop a surface that would preferentially bind spike protein and, therefore, which could limit viral spread. A series of covalently crosslinked networks of hydroxy ethyl acrylate (HEA) with different primary chain lengths and crosslinker density was prepared. Later, this network system was functionalized using 2% SBP1 peptide. Our study found that with a shorter chain length and lower crosslinker density, the HEA network system alone could capture almost 80% of the spike protein. We reported that the efficiency could be enhanced almost by 17% with higher crosslinker density.
The privilege of COVID‐19 vaccine wastage ‐ Hong Kong
Authors: Tran Joshua Yeuk Shun , Chan Phoebe Chi Fei , Wong Samuel Yeung‐shan , Wong Martin Chi‐sang
Published: November 2022

COVID‐19 and its effects continue to ripple through Hong Kong. From strict social restrictions to loosening travel restrictions, from high death rates to high caseloads, and from low vaccine uptake to high vaccine uptake, Hong Kong has experienced the spectrum of COVID‐19. Hong Kong being in a position of privilege was able to procure at least three doses per person soon after vaccines became available. However, the public's response to the vaccines was suboptimal, with less than 55% of the population being vaccinated 6 months after the introduction of the vaccines. Though the government tried to encourage active vaccine uptake, various factors, such as perceived barriers, risks, and general distrust, contributed to the hesitancy experienced by the population. Logistical factors such as open and closed vial wastage may also contribute to vaccine waste. This may have led to massive vaccine waste of up to 2 million doses and more uncertainty with how to manage with to‐be‐delivered vaccines. Vaccine nationalism opened the doors to potential wastage, a symptom of vaccine inequity. Urgent action is needed to address uptake hesitancy and potential suboptimal logistical management to prevent further vaccine wastage.
From the headwaters to the sea: The role of riparian, alluvial, and tidal wetlands to filter nutrients and ameliorate eutrophication
Authors: Craft Christopher B. , Li Shanze , Xie Tian
Published: November 2022

Wetlands are known for their ability to trap sediment and eliminate pollutants from the surrounding catchment. However, less is known regarding the differential role of headwater, mid‐catchment, and coastal wetlands in filtering these materials. Soil accretion, organic carbon (C), total nitrogen (N), and total phosphorus (P) were measured in wetlands from the headwaters to the mouth of the Altamaha River, Georgia, USA to assess how sediment deposition, C sequestration, and N and P burial vary along the waterway. Soil cores (n = 2 per site) were collected from riparian, upper and lower alluvial, tidal freshwater forest and marsh, brackish marsh, and salt marsh. Two‐centimeter depth increments were analyzed for 137Cs, to determine soil accretion, bulk density, and C, N, and P concentration. Accretion exhibited a bimodel distribution with the highest rates in riparian wetlands of the headwaters (3.9 mm/year) and in tidal fresh and brackish marshes (4.7–5.4 mm/year) of the estuary. Accretion rates were considerably lower in alluvial and tidal fresh forests and salt marshes (0.9–2.5 mm/year). Carbon sequestration and N burial followed a similar trend with the greatest accumulation in soils of tidal fresh and brackish marshes (102–150 g C/m2/year, 7.1–9.5 g N/m2/year) that had not only high accretion but also high organic matter content (11%–12% C). Riparian soils with their low C content, high bulk density, and high P content had much greater sediment deposition (3310 g/m2/year) and P burial (2.75 g P/m2/year) than other wetlands along the waterway (180–1730 g sediment/m2/year, 0.23–0.90 g P/m2/year). Results suggest that, in the Altamaha River, sediment deposition and P removal are maximized in the headwaters thereby protecting downstream freshwaters from the effects of P eutrophication. Tidal fresh and brackish marshes with their high rates of N burial can aid in protecting estuaries from N enrichment, many of which suffer from the effects of N eutrophication. Results from this study are scalable to other rivers of the southeastern U.S. piedmont and coastal plain and similar rivers of this size, topography, and geology.
Incorporating an engineering context into science learning: The effects of task context and response structuring on science understanding and investigation behaviors in a simulation
Authors: Jiang Yang , Brockway Debra , Moon Jung Aa
Published: November 2022

The interrelationship of science and engineering and the recent inclusion of engineering in K‐12 science standards have promoted the incorporation of engineering design in science classrooms. However, empirical studies on the impacts of engineering design on science learning show mixed findings and indicate that factors such as the complexity of design tasks, a lack of connections between design tasks and the underlying science concepts, and the limited experience with engineering among science teachers can influence learning gains from design activities. One useful approach for addressing these challenges is through the use of technologies such as interactive simulations, which have become increasingly prevalent in STEM education. In the present study, we used a simulation to investigate the effects of task context (science vs. engineering) on students' investigation behaviors and their understanding of science concepts. Furthermore, considering the relative novelty and complexity of an engineering context to many students, we examined how structuring students' responses in the engineering context affects their behaviors and learning. A total of 349 high school students were randomly assigned to one of three conditions: science, structured engineering, and unstructured engineering. In the science condition, students used the simulation to investigate the effects of four variables on the saturation concentration of solutions. Using the same simulation, students in the structured and unstructured engineering conditions were directed to recommend the optimal variable values that meet a set of given constraints and maximize the saturation concentration for a commercial product. The only difference between the two engineering conditions was whether structuring was provided in the response fields presented to students as they entered responses for the target variables. Results suggested that the engineering context stimulated students to engage in more comprehensive investigation behaviors as compared to the science context. In contrast, students in the science condition exhibited more systematic behaviors. However, the increased comprehensiveness of behaviors in the engineering conditions did not translate into significantly greater learning of the science content in these conditions, indicating that students might have focused on the surface features associated with the engineering goal without making deep connections between the two domains. Furthermore, structuring students' responses within an engineering context as used in the current study did not lead to significant differences in investigation behaviors or learning outcomes.
A preliminary assessment of net box traps to catch gray wolves in Lower Saxony, Germany
Authors: Gethöffer Friederike , Bartels Janina , Siebert Ursula
Published: November 2022

The number of gray wolves (Canis lupus) in Lower Saxony, Germany, has increased since they recolonized the region in 2007, and developing appropriate management strategies requires accurate information on wolf habitat use. As research on space use and foraging ecology necessitates capture, tagging, and tracking of wolves, we evaluated the feasibility of using cage traps to catch animals unharmed. Due to legal restrictions in Germany, especially concerning body‐grasping traps (e.g., foothold traps and foot snares), we developed an alternative trapping system. From July 2018 to December 2020, we installed net box traps at different locations in Lower Saxony. However, our study was disrupted and traps were removed prematurely because of human activities and sabotage. Although we did not capture any wolves, we photographically documented wolf pups entering our net box traps on seven occasions and suggest that young wolves can potentially be captured in our net box traps. We believe our work opens the possibility for further trapping options to improve future research on European gray wolves.
Einleitung
Authors: Sterzel Martin
Published: November 2022

Im Bereich des Entrepreneurships hat sich ein Ansatz herausgebildet, der das Vorgehen von Gründern in einem unsicheren Umfeld beschreibt und unter dem Begriff Effectuation bekannt ist. Bisher werden in der Effectuation-Forschung mit Hilfe qualitativer und quantitativer Methoden insbesondere zeitpunktbezogene Zusammenhänge untersucht. Die Betrachtung von Effectuation aus prozessthoretischer Sicht erlaubt darüber hinaus entrepreneuriale Wirkungsweisen im Zeitverlauf zu verstehen. Ziel der vorliegenden Arbeit ist es, die Effectuation-Theorie um einen prozessorientierten Beitrag zu erweitern sowie Elemente bestehender Modelle zu aggregieren und um den Baustein effektuativen Lernens zu ergänzen.
Zusammenfassung und Ausblick
Authors: Sterzel Martin
Published: November 2022

In diesem Kapitel werden die wesentlichen Erkenntnisse und Grenzen der Arbeit herausgestellt und weitere Forschungspotentiale aufgezeigt. Durch die Verwendung von Reinforcement Learning und agentenbasierter Modellierungsmethoden wurde die Operationalisierung des entrepreneurialen Problemraums realisiert und effektuatives Lernen ermöglicht. Das realweltliche Phänomen einer Unternehmensgründung konnte aus Gründen der Komplexitätsreduzierung im entwickelten Modellansatz nur unter Einschränkungen erfasst werden. Weitere Forschungspotentiale ergeben sich hinsichtlich der Evaluierung weiterer Lernstrategien, modifizierter Belohnungsfunktionen sowie der Anpassung der Lernumgebung des Agenten.
Deformation patterns in a second-gradient lattice annular plate composed of “Spira mirabilis” fibers
Authors: Ciallella Alessandro , D’Annibale Francesco , Del Vescovo Dionisio , Giorgio Ivan
Published: November 2022

In this paper, we aim to explore the mechanical potentialities of a material made of an orthogonal net of fibers arranged in logarithmic spirals. Therefore, an annular plate described with a second-gradient model is envisaged to evaluate the behavior of such material in a nonlinear elastic regime when large displacements and deformations occur. Several mechanical tests are performed numerically under the finite element method approximation obtained directly with a weak formulation based on the elastic energy that it is assumed to be predictive for this kind of network system of fibers. Plots reporting the mechanical characteristics in all the considered tests are provided to illustrate the overall mechanical behavior of the evaluated system.