bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of temperature on the fitness of the alfalfa weevil (Hypera postica)
Authors: Levi‐Mourao Alexandre , Madeira Filipe , Meseguer Roberto , Pons Xavier
Published: June 2022

Background

Temperature directly influences the survival, development and reproduction of insects and limits their biological activity. The alfalfa weevil (Hypera postica Gyllenhal) is a destructive pest of alfalfa crops in Spain and in most of the alfalfa production countries. The knowledge of how temperature affects the fitness of this pest can be used to predict its activity in current or forecasted environmental conditions and to develop more accurate control strategies.

Results

We evaluated the fitness of alfalfa weevil at eight constant temperatures (8–36 °C) at 4 °C intervals by using life tables and models for the description of temperature‐dependent development rates. We found that most of the parameters we studied were temperature dependent. Development was observed at all temperatures. However, postembryonic survival was optimal at 16 °C but very low at 36 °C. Adults did not reproduce at 8, 32 or 36 °C. The highest fecundity and net reproductive rate were observed at 20 °C, but the highest intrinsic rate of increase occurred at 24 °C. We predicted the phenology of the pest based on the heat needed for development, the cumulative degree days from the beginning of October to the end of May, and the day length in the study region.

Conclusion

Our prediction was validated using field data reporting the first occurrence of larval instars and adults, revealing that no more than two generations are possible within an annual cycle. In a hypothetical case where average monthly temperatures increase by 1–2 °C, the number of generations would not change. © 2022 The Authors. Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Reliability investigation of exponentiated Weibull distribution using IPL through numerical and artificial neural network modeling
Authors: Shafiq Anum , Çolak Andaç Batur , Sindhu Tabassum Naz
Published: June 2022

In current investigation, a novel implementation of intelligent numerical computing solver depending on artificial neural networks (ANN) has been provided to interpret failure function (FF), reliability function (RF), hazard rate function (HRF), Mils ratio (MR), and mean time to failure (MTTF). This study investigates a reliability model centered on the exponentiated Weibull distribution (EWD) and the inverse power law (IPL) model employing the ANN model. The nonmonotonic failure rate can be modeled via this distribution. A data set for the proposed ANN has been generated for various scenarios of (Exponentiated Weibull Inverse Power Law Distribution) EWIPLD model by variation of involved pertinent parameters via the Galerkin weighted residual method (GWRM). Levenberg–Marquard training algorithm has been used in the multi‐layer perceptron (MLP) network model developed with 10 nodes in the hidden layer. The Coefficient of Determination (R) value for the ANN model has been obtained as 0.9999. The findings obtained, revealed that ANNs are an excellent technique that can be applied to predict reliability measures in conjunction with the right statistical model.
Detoxification mechanism of vinegar‐processed Kansui revealed by systematic phytochemical analysis using ultrahigh‐performance liquid chromatography diode array detection tandem mass spectrometry, ultrahigh‐performance liquid chromatography high‐resolution mass spectrometry and in silico drug target identification
Authors: Liu Lian , Li Jiangchun , Lv Jizhong , Jiang Haipeng , Chen Fen‐er
Published: June 2022

Rationale

The dried roots of Euphorbia kansui L., known as Kansui, are used to treat ascites and edema in traditional Chinese medicine. However, the toxicity of this herb has seriously restricted its clinical application. A unique vinegar‐processing method has been used to reduce its toxicity since the time of ancient China. However, the detoxification mechanism underlying such vinegar processing has not been fully revealed. To find the answer, the process‐induced changes in components should be carefully investigated.

Methods

We performed a systematic analysis of chemical components in raw and vinegar‐processed Kansui using ultrahigh‐performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC) diode array detection tandem mass spectrometry and UHPLC high‐resolution mass spectrometry. Thirty‐one chemical components in raw and vinegar‐processed Kansui were found, the chemical structures of 28 components among them were proposed and the process‐induced changes in components were then investigated.

Results

A comprehensive conclusion about the process‐induced chemical change was drawn. It was found that jatrophane‐type diterpenoids decreased markedly after vinegar processing, while ingenane‐type diterpenoids were retained during vinegar processing. In silico drug target identification gave hints that jatrophane‐type diterpenoids, which decreased markedly during vinegar processing, may have more intense toxicity involving cholinesterase and mitogen‐activated protein kinases, while ingenane‐type diterpenoids, which were retained during vinegar processing, may have a more intense therapeutic effect involving carbonic anhydrase.

Conclusions

The possible detoxification mechanism of vinegar‐processed Kansui is presented. The research has significance for the therapeutic/toxic chemical basis of Kansui. Also, it has significance for drug discovery from terpenoids within the herb.
Characterization of growth hormone secretagogue small molecule ibutamoren (MK‐0677) and its possible metabolites in thoroughbred horses for doping control
Authors: Philip Moses , Karakka Kal Abdul Khader , Subhahar Michael Benedict , Karatt Tajudheen K. , Mathew Binoy , Koshy Shino Ann
Published: June 2022

Rationale

It is important to remember that performance‐enhancing agents such as non‐peptide growth hormone secretagogues present a significant risk of abuse. Ibutamoren (MK‐0677) is a potent, long‐acting, selective non‐peptide growth hormone secretagogue that can be taken orally.

Methods

This study examines ibutamoren and its metabolites in thoroughbred horses after oral administration. Liquid chromatography/high‐resolution mass spectrometry was used to determine the probable structures of the detected metabolites.

Results

In this study, 22 metabolites of ibutamoren were identified (17 phase I and 5 phase II). Oxidation of ibutamoren leads to hydroxylated metabolites (mono and di). The study also detected dissociated side chains (benzyl group and 2‐amino‐2‐methylpropanamide) and hydrogenated metabolites. The glucuronic acid conjugated analogs of ibutamoren were detected during phase II of the study, but no sulfonic acid conjugated analogs were observed. The major metabolites can be detected up to 96 hours after a single dose, and ibutamoren can persist for up to 72 hours.

Conclusions

These findings will aid in the detection of ibutamoren and the detection of its illegal use in competitive sports.
Adaptive robust path tracking control for autonomous vehicles with measurement noise
Authors: Li Huiqian , Huang Jin , Yang Zeyu , Hu Zhanyi , Yang Diange , Zhong Zhihua
Published: June 2022

In practical autonomous vehicle systems, model uncertainty and measurement noise are two challenging factors that deteriorate path tracking accuracy and system stability. This article proposes an adaptive robust controller to deal with these two factors and enhance path tracking accuracy. First, the path tracking model considering time‐varying uncertainty is built and represented as nominal and uncertain portions. Second, the control law is designed separately for both portions. A linear quadratic regulator controller is utilized to stabilize the nominal system. An additional robust control law is proposed to suppress the matched uncertainty and measurement noise, with an adaptive scheme aimed at estimating the bound outside uncertainty. The path tracking system with the developed control law is proved to possess uniform boundedness, uniform ultimate boundedness properties, and robustness against mismatched uncertainty. Eventually, the effectiveness of the developed controller is validated using both MATLAB/Simulink‐TruckSim co‐simulation and an autonomous vehicle platform. The results demonstrate that the designed adaptive robust control can achieve accurate path tracking in the presence of time‐varying uncertainty and measurement noise.
Integration of algae treatment with hydroponic crop waste to reduce impact of nutrient waste streams
Authors: Cowan Nicholas , White Stella , Olszewska Justyna , Dobel Anne , Sim Gavin , Eades Lorna J. , Skiba Ute
Published: June 2022

Introduction

Controlled environment agriculture (CEA) is expanding globally, but little is known about nutrient losses within these systems, or how to reduce subsequent pollution. This experiment investigates the potential to treat wastewater from hydroponically produced lettuce via the application of algae.

Materials and Methods

A total of 132 heads of lettuce were produced in the 4‐layer nutrient film technique (NFT) vertical farming rack. Waste from the hydroponic system was used to cultivate naturally occurring algae. Nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and other trace elements (Ca, Co, Cu, Fe, K, Mg, Mn, Mo, Ni and Zn) were measured at each stage of production.

Results

Overall the nutrient use efficiency (NUE) of applied mineral nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) was 88.7% and 59.4%. After algae treatment of waste streams the full system NUE of N and P was 99.5% and 95.0% respectively, thus significantly reducing waste heading for sewage. It was found that the crops consumed large quantities of Ca, Cu, Fe and Zn from the rooting sponges used in this experiment, which may have become available due to mineralization and the presence of slightly acidic fertiliser solution. The overall waste produced by the rooting sponge is of concern regarding the full NUE of the system, accounting for approximately 53% and 6% of the total N and P input into the system.

Conclusions

This study highlights that treating wastewater streams from controlled environment agriculture (CEA) methods such as hydroponics with algae is successful and easy to achieve with little effort. Future efforts by researchers and the CEA industry to better manage nutrient streams is recommended to improve the environmental credentials of developing CEA systems.
Advising in science education: Critiquing where we have been, moving toward an equitable and holistic advising approach
Authors: Suárez Enrique , Beatty Cameron C.
Published: June 2022

This article explores and wrestles with the various discourses that arise when considering why it is important to advise students from an assets‐based and holistic approach into science‐related majors and careers. Our hope is to inform how and why it is important to advise students into science‐related careers, specifically, and Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields, more generally, from an ethical and justice‐oriented approach. We begin with a review of empirical literature that highlights the different approaches to advising and the challenges racially and gender‐minoritized students often face in STEM fields. We then review contemporary research from science education that document the hostilities that racially and gender‐minoritized students experience in undergraduate and graduate science programs. We find the intersection of these two subfields to be productive for elucidating multilevel, context‐dependent strategies, which can redress the inexcusable and alarming underrepresentation and exclusion of racially minoritized peoples in science programs and careers in the United States. We end by contemplating the ethical question of how science programs, careers, and the broader field would need to change, to keep historically minoritized students from experiencing further material and epistemological violence. We argue that, without this reimagination, even the most effective advising models will only ensure that more racially and gender‐minoritized students are sacrificed on the altar of “equality” for the sake of the economic and geopolitical needs of the state.
Identification and robust estimation of swapped direct and indirect effects: Mediation analysis with unmeasured mediator‐outcome confounding and intermediate confounding
Authors: Tai An‐Shun , Lin Sheng‐Hsuan
Published: June 2022

Counterfactual‐model‐based mediation analysis can yield substantial insight into the causal mechanism through the assessment of natural direct effects (NDEs) and natural indirect effects (NIEs). However, the assumptions regarding unmeasured mediator‐outcome confounding and intermediate mediator‐outcome confounding that are required for the determination of NDEs and NIEs present practical challenges. To address this problem, we introduce an instrumental blocker, a novel quasi‐instrumental variable, to relax both of these assumptions, and we define a swapped direct effect (SDE) and a swapped indirect effect (SIE) to assess the mediation. We show that the SDE and SIE are identical to the NDE and NIE, respectively, based on a causal interpretation. Moreover, the empirical expressions of the SDE and SIE are derived with and without an intermediate mediator‐outcome confounder. Then, a multiply robust estimation method is derived to mitigate the model misspecification problem. We prove that the proposed estimator is consistent, asymptotically normal, and achieves the semiparametric efficiency bound. As an illustration, we apply the proposed method to genomic datasets of lung cancer to investigate the potential role of the epidermal growth factor receptor in the treatment of lung cancer.
Peroxidase Effect of Ce2(WO4)3 Nanoparticles to Detection of Glucose as a Colorimetric Sensor
Authors: Alaei Aida , Hosseini Morteza , Shokri Ehsan , Ganjali Mohammad Reza
Published: June 2022

Abnormal glucose level can cause irreversible damage, including diabetes. In this work, a sensor was designed that mimics the peroxidase property of the natural horseradish peroxidase (HRP). The proposed sensor detects the presence of glucose through the reduction of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and the oxidation of tetramethylbenzidine (TMB). This sensor shows linear behaviour in the range of 0.001–50 μM with a limit of detection down to 0.8 nM. In addition, a paper‐based format of this sensing platform was performed which enables fast and sensitive detection and further reduces the expenses. In this method the linear behaviour of the sensor is between 0.005–40 μM and the detection limit is as low as 2.4 nM. The glucose detection in human saliva was also performed, showing an acceptable accuracy. Thus the sensor is practically suitable for the non‐invasive detection of glucose.
A Convenient Catalytic Method for the Synthesis of Pyridines with Henna and Pyrazole Moieties using Cooperative Vinylogous Anomeric‐Based Oxidation
Authors: Dashteh Mohammad , Afsar Javad , Baghery Saeed , Zolfigol Mohammad Ali , Khazaei Ardeshir , Moosavi‐Zare Ahmad Reza , Alonso Diego A. , Khoshnood Abbas
Published: June 2022

In this work, [Fe3O4@SiO2(CH2)3][DABCO‐H][C(CN)3]2 was prepared, identified by various analyses such as FT‐IR, EDX, SEM coupled EDX (SEM mapping), XRD, FE‐SEM, TEM, TGA, DTG, ICP and VSM and used as a nanomagnetic catalyst for the synthesis of henna‐based benzopyrazolo[3,4‐b]quinolindiones via cooperative vinylogous anomeric based oxidation under solvent‐free condition. Some of these products are new and reported for the first time.
Applications of Oxone® in Organic Synthesis: An Emerging Green Reagent of Modern Era
Authors: Alvi Shakeel , Jayant Vikrant , Ali Rashid
Published: June 2022

Presently, the major cornerstone of the research community is to develop green as well as sustainable protocols involving inexpensive catalysts and/or reagents without the usage of hazardous solvents under globally friendlier conditions in order to shelter both mankind and environment. Therefore, needless to say, there is always a supreme need to surrogate the older, costlier and unsafe strategies with the novel economically inexpensive and environmental benign ones. To this context, in recent past, oxone® (triple salt), a very cheap oxidizing agent having the chemical formula 2KHSO5 ⋅ KHSO4 ⋅ K2SO4 and enwrapped with the unique characteristics like easy handling, non‐toxic, safe, eco‐friendly, non‐polluting, stable, and nicely soluble in water, in addition to its utility for large‐scale synthesis etc. Bearing the importance of this versatile reagent in mind, we envisioned to update the recent advances made in this direction. Consequently, in this particular review article, the developments made in the arena of oxone chemistry covering from 2013 to 2020 have been revealed as no report appeared in the literature after a wonderful Chem. Rev. published by the group of Hussain in 2013. Herein, a comprehensive detail of a variety of oxidative transformations along with the complete plausible mechanistic steps have been exposed. For sure, present review would be a very helpful tool to the scientific community not only working in the area of organic synthesis but also to the researchers working in other branches of science and technologies as well.
The Colorimetric Sensor Based on Azobenzenes with Sulfonamide Group for Fluorine Ion and Moisture Detection in Organic Solvents
Authors: Wu Ping , Ren Hong , Han Dandan , Yu Shihua
Published: June 2022

Two azo dyes were prepared with mono and bis sulfonamide groups ortho diazo group respectively, 2‐(4‐methylbenzenesulfonamido)‐2′‐amino azobenzene (L1) and 2,2′‐bis 4‐methylbenzenesulfonamido azobenzene (L2), that recognized F− anions with color change from yellow to orange red in aprotic solvents. The quantitative detection of F− via UV absorption intensity is available, as the plot of absorbance of L2 vs F− (37.5∼150 μM) concentration showed a good linear relation in DMF solution (R2=0.9960). The low detection limit of L2 for F− is 8.74 μM. The binding mechanism of L1 and L2 with F− in aprotic solvents solvent was supposed as sulfonamide group reacted with two fluoride anions along with the deprotonating process, which has demonstrated by UV‐Vis spectra, 1HNMR titration, DFT calculation and relative chemical reaction. The deprotonated (anionic) forms of L2 combined with F− are re‐protonated in present of water. The L2‐F have been used as colorimetric sensors exhibiting high sensitivity for water in DMSO, DMF, CH3CN, and THF with the detection limit of 0.0107 %, 0.0116 %, 0.0013 % and 0.0032 wt%, respectively.
Influence of the Precursors Selection on the Porous Structure and Adsorption Properties of C/g‐C3N4 Composites
Authors: Pan Jia , Yu Qingbo , Ren Xinxin , Wang Qingping , Li Yuqi , Shi Naishen
Published: June 2022

The properties of materials will be limited by their microstructure, including the structure of their precursors. Here, we used two kinds of nonionic surfactants, polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and polyvinyl pyrrolidone (PVP) as carbon sources, combined with dicyandiamide as precursors, prepared C/g‐C3N4 composites by simple hydrothermal method, and studied the influence of the interaction between the precursors on the structure and adsorption properties of the materials. −OH in PVA and −C=O in PVP interact with ‐NH2 in dicyandiamide, which made the calcined C/g‐C3N4 composites form more pore structure than the composites without surfactant, thus increasing the specific surface area and improving the adsorption performance. The interaction between PVP and dicyandiamide was stronger than that between PVA and dicyandiamide, so CPVP/g‐C3N4 showed the best adsorption performance. When the concentration of MB was 20 mg/L, the adsorption capacity of CPVP/g‐C3N4 was 18.73 times that of the original g‐C3N4.
High‐Efficiency Adsorption Performance of Cobalt Alginate/ Graphene Oxide Aerogel Prepared by Green Method for Methylene Blue
Authors: Sun Yaohui , Li Yanhui , Chen Bing , Cui Mingfei , Xu Wenshuo , Li Liubo , Wang Mingzhen , Zhang Yang , Chen Kewei , Du Qiuju , Wang Yuqi , Pi Xinxin
Published: June 2022

In this paper, cobalt alginate/graphene oxide (CA/GO) aerogel composites were prepared by wet spinning and vacuum freezing. The cobalt ion only ion‐pairs with the carboxyl ion in the alginate, and other groups such as hydroxyl were not combined with cobalt ions, generating free hydroxyl, and thus improving the adsorption performance and recyclability of the composite material. The adsorption properties of CA/GO aerogels gradually improved with the increase of pH. The maximum adsorption capacity of CA/GO aerogel at 298 K was 294.18 mg.g−1, and the adsorption process of methylene blue (MB) on CA/GO aerogel conformed to Langmuir isotherm model and pseudo‐second‐order model. The adsorption of MB on CA/GO is mainly attributed to electrostatic attraction, hydrogen bonding and π‐π interaction. Thermodynamic analysis showed that the adsorption process was both spontaneous and exothermic. After the CA/GO aerogel was reused for 5 times, the removal rate reached as high as 80.256 %. Compared with other adsorbents, the prepared adsorbent was proven to be provided with good removal capacity for MB, and expected to be widely applied to the adsorption treatment of MB wastewater.
Mo‐Doped Sulfur‐Vacancy‐Rich V1.11S2 Nanosheets for Efficient Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Chen Qiuyue , An Xuguang , Wu Xiaoqiang , Zhang Jing , Yao Weitang , Sun Chenghua , Wang Qingyuan , Kong Qingquan
Published: June 2022

High‐performance low‐cost hydrogen evolution electrocatalysts are urgently demanded for hydrogen production by water splitting. Herein, we report that an efficient defect engineering strategy, NaBH4 treatment, was employed to promote the HER activity of pre‐synthesized Mo‐doped V1.11S2 nanosheets. The abundant sulfur vacancies enable Mo‐doped V1.11S2 petaloid nanosheets with a low overpotential of 160 mV and a small Tafel slope of 46.2 mV dec−1 at 10 mA cm−2 to drive the HER, as well as excellent long‐term stability in 0.5 mol L−1 H2SO4. The outstanding electrocatalytic performance can be attributed to the large electrochemical surface area and low charge transfer resistance.
Shear capacity and lateral stiffness of composite plate shear walls‐concrete encased under cyclic loading
Authors: Wang Huafei , Gu Qiang , Qi Yi
Published: June 2022

Composite plate shear walls‐concrete encased (C‐PSW/CE), consisting of the steel plates and concrete encasements on one or both sides of the plate, are an excellent lateral force resisting system. This paper theoretically and numerically reveals the shear resisting mechanism of C‐PSW/CE under cyclic loading. The steel web resists the lateral force through in‐plane shear before buckling, and the concrete encasements resist lateral force by diagonal compression field action. As the displacement increases, the shear force ratio of the steel web plate increases before yielding in shear and that of concrete encasements reduces. The shear force ratios of the steel web plate and concrete encasements remain essentially constant after yielding of the steel web. Considering the shear contribution of the concrete encasements, the formula is proposed to evaluate the shear capacity of C‐PSW/CE. Based on the principle of virtual work, the equation is proposed to predict the lateral stiffness of C‐PSW/CE under cyclic loading, accounting for the concrete deterioration due to cyclic effect.
Inhibition of the Nrf2 signaling pathway involved in imidacloprid‐induced liver fibrosis in Coturnix japonica
Authors: Deng Ning , Lv Yueying , Bing Qizheng , Li Siyu , Han Bing , Jiang Huijie , Yang Qingyue , Wang Xiaoqiao , Wu Pengfei , Liu Yan , Zhang Zhigang
Published: June 2022

Imidacloprid (IMI) is a kind of widely used neonicotinoid insecticide. However, the toxicity of IMI is not only applied to target pests but also causes serious negative effects on birds and other creatures. Our previous studies have shown that long‐term exposure to IMI can induce liver fibrosis in quails. However, the specific mechanism of quail liver fibrosis induced by IMI is not completely clear. Accordingly, the purpose of this study is to further clarify the potential molecular mechanism of IMI‐induced liver fibrosis in quails. Japanese quails (Coturnix japonica) were treated with/without IMI (intragastric administration with 6 mg/kg body weight) in the presence/absence of luteolin (Lut) (fed with 800 mg/kg) for 90 days. The results reveal that IMI can induce hepatic fibrosis, oxidative stress, fatty degeneration, inflammation, and the down‐expression of nuclear factor‐E2‐related factor‐2 (Nrf2). Furthermore, the treatment of Lut, a kind of Nrf2 activator, increased the expression of Nrf2 in livers and alleviated liver fibrosis in quails. Altogether, our study demonstrates that inhibition of the Nrf2 pathway is the key to liver fibrosis induced by IMI in quails. These results provide a new understanding for the study of the toxicity of IMI and a practical basis for the treatment of liver fibrosis caused by IMI.
Expert visual assessment strategies for equine lameness examinations in a straight line and circle: A mixed methods study using eye tracking
Authors: Starke Sandra D. , May Stephen A.
Published: June 2022

Background

A large number of lameness indicators have been suggested for the visual equine lameness assessment. However, it remains unknown which of these are commonly used by experts.

Methods

Twenty‐four expert lameness assessors from 10 leading UK institutions viewed 28 video clips of sound and mildly lame horses (median score 2/10). Horses were shown at trot in a straight line (rear and front view) and circle (side view, left and right rein). Eye tracking data were collected at 60 Hz while participants evaluated each clip. A questionnaire captured contextual information.

Results

During assessment on the straight line, participants consistently looked mostly at the head and pelvis. On the circle, many participants consistently looked at the head, yet the subsequent choice, weighting and order of examined body regions was unsystematic between and within participants, and there was a bias towards prolonged assessment of the horse's front region. Questionnaires revealed different descriptions of lameness indicators for the same body region and different approaches to decision making under uncertainty.

Conclusion

In contrast to reasonably high similarity on the straight line, expert veterinarians have not developed a consistent assessment approach when evaluating horses on the circle. The reliability of various lameness indicators on the circle requires a stronger evidence base for a more systematic, repeatable approach.
Genetic analysis of the effects of heat stress before and after lambing on pre‐weaning live weight in Spanish Merino lambs
Authors: Molina Antonio , Demyda‐Peyrás Sebastián , Sánchez Manuel , Serradilla Juan M. , Menéndez‐Buxadera Alberto
Published: June 2022

Background

Heat stress (HS) is a major environmental effect on sheep production. Hereby, we estimated the genetic (co)variance component of HS on the pre‐weaning performance of 19,022 Merino lambs by analysing the climatological index of temperature and relative humidity (recorded 30 days before lambing and after lambing) using transversal and longitudinal mixed linear models.

Methods and Results

The global impact of HS during the last 30 days of pregnancy was −17% for birthweight and ranged between −4% and −8% for live weight at 15, 30 days of age (W30), and average daily gain from birth at 30 days. The results from both statistical approaches showed very similar heritabilities (h2), ranging from 0.192 to 0.237 for the direct genetic (D) effects and from 0.072 to 0.082 for the maternal genetic (M) effects, but the antagonism between (D) and (M) was higher when a longitudinal model was used. A significant genotype‐environmental effect was also found regardless of whether the climatological covariables were considered in the model. In addition, we employed D and M breeding values for W30 as an example to create a new subjacent index by first using a principal component analysis and employing the leading eigenvalues as a weighted factor that provides the information needed to identify those genotypes that maximise the response for both genetic effects over a wide range of climate–environment levels.

Conclusions

Our study revealed that the HS indexes of the mother during the gestation period have a significant effect on the growth of the lambs during the early stages of life.
Tinnitus assessment: Chinese version of the Tinnitus Primary Function Questionnaire
Authors: Xin Ying , Tyler Richard , Yao Zi‐Ming , Zhou Na , Xiong Shan , Tao Li‐Yuan , Ma Fu‐Rong , Pan Tao
Published: June 2022

Objective

The aim of this study is to evaluate the Chinese Version of the Tinnitus Primary Function Questionnaire (TPFQ).

Methods

One hundred and sixteen patients who had been suffering from tinnitus for over 3 months were included in this study. Those tinnitus patients were administered the TPFQ, the Tinnitus Handicap Inventory (THI), the Beck Anxiety Inventory (BAI), the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI). Additionally, the magnitude estimate of tinnitus loudness, pure tone audiogram, and tinnitus matching was obtained. The factor structure was measured using the Kaiser–Meyer–Olkin test. The internal consistency was examined using Cronbach's α coefficient. The relationships between the TPFQ scores and other measurements were compared using Spearman's rank correlation coefficient.

Results

The Cronbach's α of the 20‐item version of TPFQ was 0.94, and that of the 12‐item version of TPFQ was 0.92. Both the 20‐ and 12‐item versions of TPFQ were significantly correlated with magnitude estimation of tinnitus loudness, THI, PSQI, BDI, and BAI. The average pure tone hearing threshold was significantly correlated with the hearing subscale.

Conclusion

The 20‐ and 12‐item Chinese versions of TPFQ are reliable and valid measures of tinnitus. The TPFQ can be applied to the assessment and management of tinnitus among the Chinese‐speaking population.
NLO QCD and EW corrections to vector-boson scattering into W+W− at the LHC
Authors: Denner Ansgar , Franken Robert , Schmidt Timo , Schwan Christopher
Published: June 2022

Abstract

We present the full next-to-leading-order electroweak and QCD corrections to vector-boson scattering into a pair of off-shell opposite-sign W bosons decaying into leptons of different flavour at the LHC. We include full leading-order predictions for the irreducible background. Explicitly, we investigate the process pp → e+νeμ−$$ \overline{\nu} $$

ν
¯

μjj + X at leading orders $$ \mathcal{O} $$
O
(α6), $$ \mathcal{O} $$
O
(αsα5), $$ \mathcal{O} $$
O
($$ {\alpha}_{\mathrm{s}}^2 $$

α
s
2

α4), supplemented by the loop-induced $$ \mathcal{O} $$
O
($$ {\alpha}_{\mathrm{s}}^4 $$

α
s
4

α4) contribution, and at next-to-leading orders $$ \mathcal{O} $$
O
(α7)and $$ \mathcal{O} $$
O
(αsα6) in two setups providing fiducial cross sections as well as differential distributions. We take full account of photon-induced next-to-leading-order contributions, which prove to be non negligible. With −11.4% and −6.7% in the two setups, the electroweak corrections are smaller than for other vector-boson-scattering processes. This can be traced back to the presence of the Higgs-boson resonance in the fiducial phase space, whose effects we analyse within an additional unphysical, but manifestly gauge-invariant setup. The QCD corrections amount to −5.1% and −21.6% in the two setups. The large size of the latter correction, compared to other vector-boson scattering processes, is explained by a very restrictive definition of its fiducial phase space.
OPE statistics from higher-point crossing
Authors: Anous Tarek , Belin Alexandre , de Boer Jan , Liska Diego
Published: June 2022

Abstract

We present new asymptotic formulas for the distribution of OPE coefficients in conformal field theories. These formulas involve products of four or more coefficients and include light-light-heavy as well as heavy-heavy-heavy contributions. They are derived from crossing symmetry of the six and higher point functions on the plane and should be interpreted as non-Gaussianities in the statistical distribution of the OPE coefficients. We begin with a formula for arbitrary operator exchanges (not necessarily primary) valid in any dimension. This is the first asymptotic formula constraining heavy-heavy-heavy OPE coefficients in d > 2. For two-dimensional CFTs, we present refined asymptotic formulas stemming from exchanges of quasi-primaries as well as Virasoro primaries.
Semiclassical analysis of axion-assisted and axion-driven pair production
Authors: Kitamoto Hiroyuki , Yamada Masaki
Published: June 2022

Abstract

We study the pair production of fermions in a time dependent axion background with and without an electric background. We construct the adiabatic mode functions which incorporate the gauge field and the axion velocity dependence of the dispersion relation. The semiclassical approach using this adiabatic basis shows two types of pair production. One is axion-assisted pair production: the presence of the axion velocity gives enhancement and interference effects on the pair production driven by the electric field. The other is axion-driven pair production: the time variation of the axion velocity causes the pair production even though the electric field is absent.
The combination of metabolic syndrome and inflammation increased the risk of colorectal cancer
Authors: Liu Tong , Fan Yali , Zhang Qingsong , Wang Yiming , Yao Nan , Song Mengmeng , Zhang Qi , Cao Liying , Song Chunhua , Shi Hanping
Published: June 2022

Background

Inflammation and metabolic syndrome (MetS) may act synergistically and possibly accelerate the initiation and progression of colorectal cancer (CRC). We prospectively examined the joint effect of MetS and inflammation on the risk of CRC.

Methods

We studied 92,770 individuals from the Kailuan study. MetS was defined based on the presence of three or more of the following components. (1) high glucose: FPG > 5.6 mmol/L; (2) high blood pressure: SBP ≥ 130 mmHg or DBP ≥ 85 mmHg; (3) high triglycerides: triglycerides > 1.69 mmol/L; (4) low HDL-C: HDL-C < 1.04 mmol/L in men or 1.29 mmol/L in women; and (5) visceral adiposity: waist circumference ≥ 85 cm in men or 80 cm in women. Inflammation was defined as hs-CRP ≥ 3 mg/L. We divided participants into four groups for the primary exposure according to the presence/absence of inflammation and presence/absence of MetS. Cox proportional hazards regression models were used to evaluate the association of MetS and/or inflammation with the risk of CRC.

Results

Compared with metabolically healthy noninflammatory individuals, inflammatory participants without MetS and inflammatory participants with MetS were associated with a 1.3-fold and 4.18-fold increased risk of CRC with corresponding HRs (95% CI) of 1.34 (1.09, 1.64) and 4.18 (3.11, 5.62), respectively. The combination of MetS and inflammation was associated with the highest risk of CRC in all subgroups, especially among participants who were female, in younger age, and obese. Sensitivity analyses further validated our primary findings.

Conclusions

We found the combination of MetS and inflammation could significantly increase the risk of CRC. Including CRP in the diagnosis of MetS may help to identify additional high-risk participants who should be targeted for early diagnosis and prevention of CRC.

Trial registration Kailuan study, ChiCTR–TNRC–11001489. Registered 24 August, 2011-Retrospectively registered, http:// www.chictr.org.cn/showprojen.aspx?proj=8050
Umbilical cord blood DNA methylation in children who later develop type 1 diabetes
Authors: Laajala Essi , Kalim Ubaid Ullah , Grönroos Toni , Rasool Omid , Halla-aho Viivi , Konki Mikko , Kattelus Roosa , Mykkänen Juha , Nurmio Mirja , Vähä-Mäkilä Mari , Kallionpää Henna , Lietzén Niina , Ghimire Bishwa R. , Laiho Asta , Hyöty Heikki , Elo Laura L. , Ilonen Jorma , Knip Mikael , Lund Riikka J. , Orešič Matej , Veijola Riitta , Lähdesmäki Harri , Toppari Jorma , Lahesmaa Riitta
Published: June 2022

Aims/hypothesis

Distinct DNA methylation patterns have recently been observed to precede type 1 diabetes in whole blood collected from young children. Our aim was to determine whether perinatal DNA methylation is associated with later progression to type 1 diabetes.

Methods

Reduced representation bisulphite sequencing (RRBS) analysis was performed on umbilical cord blood samples collected within the Finnish Type 1 Diabetes Prediction and Prevention (DIPP) Study. Children later diagnosed with type 1 diabetes and/or who tested positive for multiple islet autoantibodies (n = 43) were compared with control individuals (n = 79) who remained autoantibody-negative throughout the DIPP follow-up until 15 years of age. Potential confounding factors related to the pregnancy and the mother were included in the analysis.

Results

No differences in the umbilical cord blood methylation patterns were observed between the cases and controls at a false discovery rate <0.05.

Conclusions/interpretation

Based on our results, differences between children who progress to type 1 diabetes and those who remain healthy throughout childhood are not yet present in the perinatal DNA methylome. However, we cannot exclude the possibility that such differences would be found in a larger dataset.

Graphical abstract
Towards intentional aesthetics within topology optimization by applying the principle of unity-in-variety
Authors: Loos Shannon , Wolk Sytze van der , Graaf Nina de , Hekkert Paul , Wu Jun
Published: June 2022

Topology optimization is increasingly applied to design consumer products, for which aesthetics plays an important role to consumer acceptance. In industrial design, it is known that preferences or taste judgement obey certain rules or principles. These principles are not directly quantifiable, but can qualitatively predict and explain aesthetic responses. In this paper, we empirically evaluate whether or not these design principles are effective for increasing the appealingness of topology optimized shapes. Our starting point is an overarching principle known as Unity-in-Variety. Variety stimulates our interests, whilst unity helps us make sense of a design in its entirety. According to this principle, aesthetic appreciation is maximized when a balance in unity and variety is attained. Since designs from topology optimization often exhibit remarkable complexity and variety, we hypothesize that increasing unity is the key to reach a balance and thus to elevate aesthetic appreciation in topology optimization. In our experimental setup, designs from topology optimization were manually post-processed, with the intention to increase unity, by following the “principles of perceptual grouping”, known as Gestalt principles. Our user study shows that in 11 out of the 12 pairs of topology optimized designs and their modified counterparts, the modified designs are perceived by the majority as visually more appealing, confirming our hypothesis. These findings provide a good basis for improving the aesthetic pleasure of topology optimized designs, either manually or ultimately by integrating them in the topology optimization formulation. It is expected that this eventually will contribute to a wider acceptance of topology optimization for consumer product design.
Complications and downsides of the robotic total knee arthroplasty: a systematic review
Authors: Nogalo Christian , Meena Amit , Abermann Elisabeth , Fink Christian
Published: June 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this systematic review is to describe the complications and downsides of robotic systems in total knee arthroplasty (TKA).

Methods

A comprehensive search according to the PRISMA guidelines was performed across PubMed, MEDLINE, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Scopus, and Google Scholar from inception until December 2021. All articles of any study design directly reporting on complications and downsides of the robotic system in TKA were considered for inclusion. Risk of bias assessment was performed for all included studies using the Cochrane risk of bias and MINORS score.

Results

A total of 21 studies were included, consisting of 4 randomized controlled trials, 7 prospective studies and 10 retrospective studies. Complications of the robotic system were pin-hole fracture, pin-related infection, iatrogenic soft tissue and bony injury, and excessive blood loss. While, downsides were longer operative duration, higher intraoperative cost, learning curve and aborting a robotic TKA due to different reasons. Iatrogenic injuries were more common in the active robotic system and abortion of the robotic TKA was reported only with active robotic TKA.

Conclusion

Robotic TKA is associated with certain advantages and disadvantages. Therefore, surgeons need to be familiar with the system to use it effectively. Widespread adoption of the robotic system should always be evidence-based.

Level of evidence

IV.
Diversity and mechanisms of economic evolution
Authors: Lipieta Agnieszka , Pliś Elżbieta
Published: June 2022

In the paper, we examine the relationship between the diversity of a competitive economy and the mechanisms that appear within economic development. We use the concept of transformation of the economic system to analyze innovation in the economy. A properly defined diversity function allows us to measure the diversity of the production system of a given economy as well as to relate the obtained value to certain properties of the mechanisms of economic evolution defined in the Hurwicz conceptual apparatus. We show that innovative mechanisms and eco-mechanisms can increase the diversity of the analyzed economic system. The conclusions are the results of mathematical theorems.
The role of cholesterol binding in the control of cholesterol by the Scap–Insig system
Authors: Lee Anthony G.
Published: June 2022

Scap and Insig, two proteins embedded in the membrane of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), regulate the synthesis of cholesterol in animal cells by forming a dimer in the presence of high concentrations of cholesterol. Cryo-electron microscopic structures for the Scap–Insig dimer show a sterol-binding site at the dimer interface, but none of the structures include cholesterol itself. Here, a molecular docking approach developed to characterise cholesterol binding to the transmembrane (TM) regions of membrane proteins is used to characterise cholesterol binding to sites on the TM surface of the dimer and to the interfacial binding site. Binding of cholesterol is also observed at sites on the extra-membranous luminal domains of Scap, but the properties of these sites suggest that they will be unoccupied in vivo. Comparing the structure of Scap in the dimer with that predicted by AlphaFold for monomeric Scap suggests that dimer formation could result in relocation of TM helix 7 of Scap and of the loop between TM6 and 7, and that this could be the key change on Scap that signals that there is a high concentration of cholesterol in the ER.
Proportional topology optimisation with maximum entropy-based meshless method for minimum compliance and stress constrained problems
Authors: Ullah Zahur , Ullah Baseer , Khan Wajid , Siraj-ul-Islam
Published: June 2022

In this paper, proportional topology optimisation (PTO) with maximum entropy (maxent)-based meshless method is presented for two-dimensional linear elastic structures for both minimum compliance (PTOc) and stress constraint (PTOs) problems. The computation of maxent basis functions is efficient as compared to the standard moving least square (MLS) and possesses a weak Kronecker delta property leading to straightforward imposition of Dirichlet boundary conditions. The PTO is a simple, non-gradient, accurate, and efficient method compared to the standard topology optimisation methods. A detailed and efficient implementation of the computational algorithms for both PTOc and PTOs is presented. The maxent basis functions are calculated only once at the start of simulation and used in each optimisation iteration. Young’s modulus for each background cells is calculated using the modified solid isotropic material with penalisation (SIMP) method. A parametric study is also conducted on the degree of proportionality and history dependence of both PTOc and PTOs algorithms. A variety of numerical examples with simple and complex geometries, and structured and unstructured discretisations are presented to show the accuracy, efficiency, and robustness of the developed computational algorithms. Both PTOc and PTOs algorithms can handle large topological changes, and provide excellent optimisation convergence characteristics.
Placental pathology in sudden intrauterine death (SIUD) in SARS-CoV-2-positive oligosymptomatic women
Authors: Horn Lars-Christian , Krücken Irene , Hiller Grit Gesine Ruth , Niedermair Maria , Perac Kristina , Pietsch Corinna , Höhn Anne Kathrin
Published: June 2022

Background

Pregnant women are also susceptible to SARS-CoV-2. Although an infection of the placenta may be rare, pregnancy may occasionally be affected by intrauterine failure. The knowledge of placental morphology on sudden intrauterine demise is still limited.

Methods

Fetal and placental tissue of two cases of sudden intrauterine death in the second trimester were analysed morphologically and by immunohistochemistry. One case was evaluated by RT-PCR.

Results

Both mothers were tested positive for the Alpha variant of SARS-CoV-2 but were oligosymptomatic for COVID-19. Unexpected sudden intrauterine death (SIUD) occurred at 15 + 2 and 27 + 3 weeks of gestation. One fetus demonstrated an intrauterine growth restriction. No malformations nor inflammatory changes were observed in either fetus on autopsy. In contrast to the placentas, the fetal tissue was negative for SARS-CoV-2 on immunohistochemical and RT-PCR analyses. Macroscopically, the placentas showed an increased consistency with a white, reticular cutting surface covering about 95% of the whole placenta. Only very focal histiocytic chronic intervillositis was noted histologically. Massive perivillous fibrin deposits with extensive necroses of the villous trophoblast were present in more than 90% of the placental tissue. Immunohistochemical staining was strong and diffusely positive for SARS-CoV-2 in the villous trophoblast and rarely within the villous stromal cells. Placental SARS-CoV-2 infection was confirmed by RT-PCR.

Conclusion

Sudden intrauterine death may occur in mothers who are oligosymptomatic for COVID-19. Acute placental failure is responsible for SIUD, demonstrated by massive perivillous fibrin deposits and extensive necroses of the villous trophoblast with SARS-CoV-2-positivity based on immunohistochemical staining and RT-PCR. Detailed histopathological examination of placental and fetal tissue is mandatory to verify SARS-CoV-2 and to evaluate the pathogenesis and functionality of this disease.