bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigation of Rosa species by an optimized LC‐QTOF‐MS/MS method using targeted and non‐targeted screening strategies combined with multivariate chemometrics
Authors: Mitsikaris Petros D. , Kostas Stefanos , Mourtzinos Ioannis , Menkissoglu‐Spiroudi Urania , Papadopoulos Athanasios , Kalogiouri Natasa P.
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Plants of the Rosa genus are renowned for their pronounced and pleasant aroma and colors.

Objective

The aim of this work was to develop a novel liquid chromatographic triple quadrupole time‐of‐flight tandem mass spectrometric (LC‐QTOF‐MS/MS) method for the investigation of the bioactive fingerprint of petals of different genotypes belonging to Rosa damascena and Rosa centifolia species.

Methodology

Central composite design (CCD) of response surface methodology (RSM) was used for the optimization of the LC‐QTOF‐MS/MS method. The method was validated and target, suspect, and non‐target screening workflows were applied. Statistical analysis and chemometric tools were utilized to explore the metabolic fingerprint of the Rosa species.

Results

RSM revealed that the optimal extraction parameters involved mixing 11 mg of sample with 1 mL of MeOH:H2O (70:30, v/v). Target analysis confirmed the presence of 11 analytes, all of which demonstrated low limits of quantification (LOQs; as low as 0.048 ng mg−1) and sufficient recoveries (RE: 85%–107%). In total, 28 compounds were tentatively identified through suspect analysis. Non‐target analysis enabled the generation of robust OPLS‐DA and HCA models that classified the samples according to their species with 100% accuracy.

Conclusions

A novel LC‐QTOF‐MS/MS method was developed and applied in the analysis of 47 R. centifolia and R. damascena flowers belonging to different genotypes.
Experimental and numerical study on flow characteristics of dual‐cavity die based on multi‐objective optimization
Authors: Han Jie , Gong Xiaosong , Du Xiaozhong , Zhang Zhong , Cui Sheng
Published: March 2024

Slot die coating is a common method of manufacturing electrodes for lithium‐ion batteries. In this paper, a multi‐objective optimization research on the geometry of dual‐cavity die is investigated based on the numerical simulation of lithium battery anode slurry flow combined with the surface response optimization method. First, we use the Plackett–Burman test method to screen the geometric parameters significantly affecting the optimization objective. Then, based on the Box–Behnken response surface analysis method, we determine the optimal combination of parameters. The results show that the inner cavity radius and slot gap are the main structural variables affecting exit‐velocity uniformity and die deformation. The slot gap and slot length mainly affect the inlet pressure. The coefficient of deviation of exit velocity uniformity and average inlet pressure of the optimized die structure decreased by 51.3% and 7.6%, respectively. This research provides theoretical guidance for the design of slot coating dies.

Highlights

Screening significant geometric parameters using Plackett–Burman test methodology.

Box–Behnken response surface analysis to determine optimal parameters.

Velocity uniformity and inlet pressure increased by 51.3% and 7.6%, respectively.
Single Atom Catalyst in Persulfate Oxidation Reaction: From Atom Species to Substance
Authors: Zhou Daixi , Li Zhi , Hu Xinjiang , Chen Li , Zhu Mingshan
Published: March 2024

With maximum utilization of active metal sites, more and more researchers have reported using single atom catalysts (SACs) to activate persulfate (PS) for organic pollutants removal. In SACs, single metal atoms (Fe, Co, Cu, Mn, etc.) and different substrates (porous carbon, biochar, graphene oxide, carbon nitride, MOF, MoS2, and others) are the basic structural. Metal single atoms, substances, and connected chemical bonds all have a great influence on the electronic structures that directly affect the activation process of PS and degradation efficiency to organic pollutants. However, there are few relevant reviews about the interaction between metal single atoms and substances during PS activation process. In this review, the SACs with different metal species and substrates are summarized to investigate the metal−support interaction and evaluate their effects on PS oxidation reaction process. Furthermore, how metal atoms and substrates affect the reactive species and degradation pathways are also discussed. Finally, the challenges and prospects of SACs in PS‐AOPs are proposed.
Establishing Quartz Crystal Microbalance with Dissipation (QCM‐D) Coupled with Spectroscopic Ellipsometry (SE) as an Advantageous Technique for the Characterization of Ultra‐Thin Film Hydrogels
Authors: Sans Jordi , Azevedo Gonçalves Ingrid , Quintana Robert
Published: March 2024

Despite the considerable significance of utilizing ultra‐thin film (utf) hydrogels as multipurpose platforms for biomedical applications, there is still an important lack of adequate characterization techniques suitable for such materials. In this Perspective, the use of quartz crystal microbalance with dissipation (QCM‐D) coupled with spectral ellipsometry (SE) is presented as a potential tool for the complete characterization of utf‐hydrogels due to its nanometric sensitivity and high versatility. Herein, the fundaments for utf‐hydrogel characterization are settled down as far as the QCM‐D/SE response is explored under a wide range of different in operando wet working conditions measurements such as temperature or liquid media, among others. Therefore, the design of measuring protocols capable to perform is proposed and compiled, for the first time, complete and precise characterization of the cross‐link density, thickness variations (swelling ratio determination), stability analyses, and mechanical studies (including the simultaneous generation of stress‐strain curves and the evaluation of the viscoelastic; leading to the final determination of the Poisson's ratio) under different in operando conditions. Finally, the future challenges and implications for the general characterization of soft‐thin films are discussed.
D–A Conjugated Polymer/CdS S‐Scheme Heterojunction with Enhanced Interfacial Charge Transfer for Efficient Photocatalytic Hydrogen Generation
Authors: Li Yaqi , Wan Sijie , Liang Weichen , Cheng Bei , Wang Wang , Xiang Yao , Yu Jiaguo , Cao Shaowen
Published: March 2024

Owing to the improved charge separation and maximized redox capability of the system, Step‐scheme (S‐scheme) heterojunctions have garnered significant research attention for efficient photocatalysis of H2 evolution. In this work, an innovative linear donor–acceptor (D–A) conjugated polymer fluorene‐alt‐(benzo‐thiophene‐dione) (PFBTD) is coupled with the CdS nanosheets, forming the organic–inorganic S‐scheme heterojunction. The CdS/PFBTD (CP) composite exhibits an impressed hydrogen production rate of 7.62 mmol g−1 h−1 without any co‐catalysts, which is ≈14 times higher than pristine CdS. It is revealed that the outstanding photocatalytic performance is attributed to the formation of rapid electron transfer channels through the interfacial Cd─O bonding as evidenced by the density functional theory (DFT) calculations and in situ X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analysis. The charge transfer mechanism involved in S‐scheme heterojunctions is further investigated through the photo‐irradiated Kelvin probe force microscopy (KPFM) analysis. This work provides a new point of view on the mechanism of interfacial charge transfer and points out the direction of designing superior organic–inorganic S‐scheme heterojunction photocatalysts.
A new Spathiphyllum (Araceae) from Mexico segregated by its morphology and floral scent from closely related species
Authors: Jiménez Pedro Díaz , Dötterl Stefan , Fuchs Roman , Pérez‐Farrera Miguel Ángel , Aguilar‐Rodríguez Pedro A.
Published: March 2024

Spathiphyllum is a mostly Neotropical genus of the Araceae plant family. Many species have a long flowering period and emit a strong, pleasant, and species‐specific floral scent. In Mexico, Spathiphyllum is represented by 14 species, 9 of which are endemic. Here, we describe the morphology, floral scent composition, and flowering phenology of a hitherto unknown species, S. hentrichianum sp. nov. This species is characterized by having a petiole not sheathed to the geniculum, leaf blades with less than 25 primary lateral veins per side, 1–2 ovules per locule, and 3–5 ovules per ovary. The strong scent consists of various terpenes and aromatic compounds, mainly (E,E)‐α‐Farnesene, (E)‐Cinnamyl acetate and (E)‐Cinnamyl alcohol. The new species is morphologically similar to S. cochlearispathum, but the latter differs in having a petiole sheathed to the geniculum, leaf blades with up to 31 primary lateral veins per side, 2–6 ovules per locule and 6–16 ovules per ovary, and the floral scent is also different between both species. In S. cochlearispathum, the scent is dominated by aromatic compounds, one terpene and one nitrogen‐containing compound, such as Methyl salicylate, Methyl p‐anisate, Methyl (E)‐cinnamate, (R)‐Linalool and 2‐Phenylacetonitrile. The flowering cycle of an inflorescence in S. hentrichianum lasted between 25 and 29 days. We suggest that detailed volatile organic compounds in the floral scent could be useful when defining a new taxon, especially among cryptic and sympatric aroid species.
Polystyrene microplastic‐induced endoplasmic reticulum stress contributes to growth plate endochondral ossification disorder in young rat
Authors: Zhang Qingqing , Lang Yuanyuan , Tang Xiaomin , Cheng Wenshu , Cheng Zugen , Rizwan Mohammad , Xie Lixin , Liu Yanling , Xu Hengyi , Liu Yang
Published: March 2024

Background

Previous studies on the effects of microplastics (MPs) on bone in early development are limited. This study aimed to investigate the adverse effects of MPs on bone in young rats and the potential mechanism.

Methods

Three‐week‐old female rats were orally administered MPs for 28 days, and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress inhibitor salubrinal (SAL) and ER stress agonist tunicamycin (TM) were added to evaluate the effect of ER stress on toxicity of MPs. The indicators of growth and plasma markers of bone turnover were evaluated. Tibias were analyzed using micro‐computed tomography (micro‐CT). Histomorphological staining of growth plates was performed, and related gene expression of growth plate chondrocytes was tested.

Results

After exposure of MPs, the rats had decreased growth, shortened tibial length, and altered blood calcium and phosphorus metabolism. Trabecular bone was sparse according to micro‐CT inspection. In the growth plate, the thickness of proliferative zone substantial reduced while the thickness of hypertrophic zone increased significantly, and the chondrocytes were scarce and irregularly arranged according to tibial histological staining. The transcription of the ER stress‐related genes BIP, PERK, ATF4, and CHOP dramatically increased, and the transcription factors involved in chondrocyte proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, and matrix secretion were aberrant according to RT‐qPCR and western blotting. Moreover, the addition of TM showed higher percentage of chondrocyte death. Administration of SAL alleviated all of the MPs‐induced symptoms.

Conclusion

These results indicated that MPs could induce growth retardation and longitudinal bone damage in early development. The toxicity of MPs may attribute to induced ER stress and impaired essential processes of the endochondral ossification after MPs exposure.
Dental disease in companion rabbits under UK primary veterinary care: Frequency and risk factors
Authors: Jackson Maria A. , Burn Charlotte C. , Hedley Joanna , Brodbelt Dave C. , O'Neill Dan G.
Published: March 2024

Background

Some prior evidence has suggested that lop‐eared rabbits and those with brachycephalic skull conformations have a higher dental disease risk. This retrospective cohort study reports the frequency and conformational risk factors for primary‐care veterinary diagnosis with dental disease in companion rabbits in the UK.

Methods

Anonymised VetCompass clinical records were manually reviewed to confirm dental disease cases. Risk factor analysis used multivariable binary logistic regression modelling.

Results

From 161,979 rabbits under primary veterinary care in 2019, the 1‐year period prevalence of overall dental disease was 15.36% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 14.78–15.96). The prevalence of dental disease affecting incisors was 3.14% (95% CI: 2.87–3.44), and for cheek teeth it was 13.72% (95% CI: 13.17–14.29). Neither lop‐eared conformation nor brachycephalic skull conformation was significantly associated with increased odds of dental disease. Dental disease odds increased as age increased and decreased as bodyweight increased.

Limitations

This study retrospectively accessed clinical records, so breed names may sometimes be imprecise.

Conclusion

The high overall prevalence of dental disease represents a major welfare concern for all companion rabbits, regardless of conformation. This information can be used to encourage regular routine dental assessment of rabbits of all conformations to promote earlier diagnosis, paying particular attention to older rabbits and those with low bodyweight.
Oesophageal obstruction by trichobezoars in rescued jungle cat (Felis chaus)
Authors: Karki Bikalpa , Lamichhane Babu Ram , Mishra Rama , Sadaula Amir , Rijal Kiran Raj , Shah Rachana , Silwal Pradeepa
Published: March 2024

Oesophageal obstruction due to hairballs in cats is very rare. Excessive grooming behaviour in cats due to skin infection can lead to impaction in the digestive tract, resulting in deprivation of food and water and ultimately death. This report described a case of a rescued jungle cat showing signs of marked dehydration after death. On postmortem examination, a blockade of hairballs was observed in the oesophagus. Further examination of hair revealed that the hair was from the same species, not the prey species. This suggests that the over‐grooming behaviour of cats can lead to the over‐ingestion of hair, which might cause a blockage in the digestive tract, leading to death. The rescue centres should be well aware and prepared to diagnose such problems and manage the case accordingly for effective treatment of rescued animals.
Lumbar spinal arachnoid diverticulum in a cat
Authors: Sarpekidou Eirini , Angelou Vasileia , Marouda Christina , Panopoulos Ioannis , Kazakos George
Published: March 2024

A 5‐year‐old, domestic, shorthair, male, neutered cat was referred to the Companion Animal Clinic with a history of paraparesis and urinary incontinence, alongside recurrent urinary tract infections. Magnetic resonance imaging of the lumbar vertebral column revealed a space‐occupying spinal cyst‐like lesion located at the level of fifth and sixth lumbar vertebrae. Surgical treatment consisted of dorsal laminectomy and durectomy, resulting in decompression. Histopathology findings were indicative of spinal arachnoid diverticulum. Postoperatively, the cat exhibited gradual hindlimb and tail motor improvement, and recovery of voluntary urination. Complete resolution of the neurological signs was achieved at 3 months after surgery. No signs of recurrence were noted till the time of writing this report, 14 months postoperatively. To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first case report of a spinal arachnoid diverticulum in the lumbosacral vertebral column in a cat.
Subjective Discomfort during Botulinumtoxin Injections Dependent on Injection Site and Needle Size: A Comparison Between 30G, 33G and 34G Needles
Authors: Kämmerer Till A. , Bertlich Randolf , Hartmann Daniela , Jakob Mark , Weiss Bernhard G. , Bertlich Ines , Ihler Friedrich , Wiggenhauser Paul Severin , Bertlich Mattis
Published: March 2024

Background

Botulinumtoxin application in the face is amongst the most common aesthetic procedures in the head and neck region. It also has numerous medical uses. One of the main reasons for patients to refrain from it is the subjective discomfort that is experienced during injections.

Objectives

The study at hand aimed to determine whether needles with 33G and 34G offer an advantage in terms of individual pain perception during botulinumtoxin injections.

Methods

We conducted a prospective study where patients were asked to grade subjective discomfort on a visual analogue scale for each region (forehead, glabella, temple) that was treated directly after treatment and 15 minutes after. Patients were treated with 30G, 33G or 34G needles, respectively.

Results

Ninety-nine patients that underwent treatment of 189 regions were included in the study. Patients were evenly distributed amongst the different needle sizes and regions. Subjective discomfort was greatest in all regions for 30G needles (3.9  ± 1.6 forehead, 4.3 ± 1.7 glabella and 4.0 ± 1.6 temple) followed by 33G (2.7 ± 1.5 forehead, 2.7 ± 1.9 glabella and 2.2 ± 1.2 temple) and 34G (1.7 ± 1.2 forehead, 1.6 ± 1.4 glabella and 1.6 ± 1.4 temple). All differences between needle size were statistically significant (p < 0.05)

Conclusion

33G and 34G needles seem to offer smaller discomfort during BTX treatments of the head and neck, with 34G being superior to 33G.

Level of Evidence III

This journal requires that authors assign a level of evidence to each article. For a full description of these Evidence-Based Medicine ratings, please refer to the Table of Contents or the online Instructions to Authors www.springer.com/00266
Defining a competency framework for health and social professionals to promote healthy aging throughout the lifespan: an international Delphi study
Authors: Rodríguez-Monforte Míriam , Fernández-Jané Carles , Bracha Marietta , Bartoszewska Adrianna , Kozakiewicz Mariusz , Leclerc Mariel , Nimani Endrit , Soanvaara Pauliina , Jarvinen Sari , Van Sherpenseel Meike , van der Velde Miriam , Alves-Lopes António , Handgraaf Marietta , Grüneberg Christian , Carrillo-Alvarez Elena
Published: March 2024

The promotion of healthy aging has become a priority in most parts of the world and should be promoted at all ages. However, the baseline training of health and social professionals is currently not adequately tailored to these challenges. This paper reports the results of a Delphi study conducted to reach expert agreement about health and social professionals’ competencies to promote healthy aging throughout the lifespan within the SIENHA project. Materials and methods: This study was developed following the CREDES standards. The initial version of the competence framework was based on the results of a scoping review and following the CanMEDS model. The expert panel consisted of a purposive sample of twenty-two experts in healthy aging with diverse academic and clinical backgrounds, fields and years of expertise from seven European countries. Agreement was reached after three rounds. The final framework consisted of a set of 18 key competencies and 80 enabling competencies distributed across six domains. The SIENHA competence framework for healthy aging may help students and educators enrich their learning and the academic content of their subjects and/or programs and incentivize innovation.
A perturbative approach to complexity during dissipative collapse
Authors: Govender Megandhren , Bogadi Robert S. , Govender Wesley , Mewalal Narenee
Published: March 2024

Radiative gravitational collapse is an important and much studied phenomenon in astrophysics. Einstein’s theory of general relativity (GR) is well suited to describing such processes provided closure of the system of nonlinear differential equations is achieved. Within a perturbative scheme, the property of vanishing complexity factor is used in order to complete the description of the radiative, self-gravitating system. We show that a physically viable model may be obtained which reflects the absence of energy inhomogeneities for lower density systems, in contrast to what might be expected for more aggressive collapse processes.
How to build better environments that
reinforce adaptation of online learning?——Evidence from a large-scale empirical survey
of Chinese universities
Authors: Wang Ju , Guo Lu , Gao Jing qi , Zhao Hua
Published: March 2024

This study is based on a comprehensive review of existing literature.
Drawing upon the theories of task-technology fit (TTF) and technology adoption model
(TAM), an integrated theoretical framework is developed. The framework places
adaptability as a critical outcome variable and quality standard. This study
constructs a student-centered online learning process model oriented towards
effectiveness. The research is intended to utilize data from the "National Survey of
Undergraduate Education Teaching Quality in Ordinary Universities" encompassing
123,894 Chinese university students from 272 undergraduate institutions. Through a
questionnaire-based survey, the study comprehensively investigates the influence
paths and mechanisms of several key factors, including environmental support (ES),
teaching satisfaction (TS), perceived ease of use (PEU), task-technology fit (TTF),
and learning adaptability (LA). The structural equation model largely validates the
study's hypotheses, demonstrating significant correlations among the variables. The
task-technology fit (TTF) and adaptability of university students are found to be
influenced by teaching satisfaction (TS), perceived ease of use (PEU), and
environmental support (ES). task-technology fit (TTF) emerges as a pivotal process
variable in online learning. teaching satisfaction (TS) and perceived ease of use
(PEU), as foundational elements, positively influence learning adaptability (LA)
through the mediating role of task-technology fit (TTF). However, environmental
support (ES) negatively predicts task-technology fit (TTF). The study findings offer
empirical support for designing an environment conducive to enhancing students'
adaptability in online learning. Furthermore, the outcomes guide policy formulation
and practical strategies in various aspects, including optimizing teacher
instruction in the online setting, enhancing students' perceived usability of
digital technologies, and promoting the supply of online technological
functionalities. Ultimately, these efforts contribute to the welfare of students'
learning experiences.
A wandering wedgefish illustrates the need for cooperative elasmobranch conservation in the Arabian Gulf
Authors: Bruns Stephan , Al Hameli Shamsa , Sulanke Erik , Henderson Aaron C.
Published: March 2024

The smoothnose wedgefishRhynchobatus laevis, a shark-like ray classified as Critically Endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature, has received limited research attention. To address the knowledge gaps in its spatial behaviour, this study utilised satellite monitoring of a fortuitously captured female over a 51-day period in the Arabian Gulf. Based on the resulting movement track, the individual covered a minimum distance of 712 km, traversing the exclusive economic zones of three different countries. Its track began in the United Arab Emirates, from where it headed north, entering Iranian waters, where it spent most of its time, before continuing westward across the Gulf and eventually reaching Qatari waters. Novel insights into its behaviour revealed an observation of rapid ascents over the study period. Although both diurnal and nocturnal ascents were observed, they occurred predominantly during nocturnal periods. Contrary to the prevailing belief that wedgefish are bottom-associated, the study animal spent a considerable amount of time in the water column. The use of various depths in both nearshore and offshore waters highlights elevated susceptibility to multiple types of fishing gear. This underscores the need for an international cooperative approach to the management and conservation of shark-like rays in the Arabian Gulf.
From Unemployed to Self-Employed: Analysis of Treatment Effects of a Dutch Self-Employment Programme
Authors: Odding Céline , Kok Lucy , Kroon Lennart , Lammers Marloes
Published: March 2024

This paper evaluates the effectiveness of a programme that aims to activate welfare recipients to become self-employed. We use unique administrative data which contain applicants for a self-employment programme between 2007 and 2010. We examine the long-term effects of the programme on people’s welfare recipience, employment and income until 8 years after they applied to the programme. The estimations show positive long-term effects of being accepted into the programme. It seems that even applying to the programme and subsequently being rejected also had positive employment effects. This was probably due to the training and guidance the applicants received while writing a business plan, which was a prerequisite to participating in the programme. Moreover, a cost–benefit analysis showed that the programme is cost-effective.
Can our experience with surveillance for inherited pancreatic cancer help to identify early pancreatic cancer in the general population?
Authors: Löhr J.-Matthias , Öhlund Daniel , Söreskog Emma , Andersson Emil , Vujasinovic Miroslav , Zethraeus Niklas , Sund Malin
Published: March 2024

Screening of the general population for cancer is a matter of primary prevention reducing the burden of disease. Whilst this is successful for several cancers including breast, colon and prostate, the situation to screen and hence prevent pancreatic cancer is different. The organ is not as accessible to simple physical exam or biological samples (fecal or blood test). Neither exists a blood test such as PSA that is cost-effective. Reviewing the evidence from screening risk groups for pancreatic cancer, one must conclude that there is no rational at present to screen the general population, for a lack of appropriate tests.
Knowledge investment and search for innovation: evidence from the UK firms
Authors: Audretsch David B. , Belitski Maksim , Chowdhury Farzana
Published: March 2024

Recent research on innovation management and knowledge transfer has demonstrated that industry knowledge collaboration and knowledge spillovers matter for innovation, but so does a firm's Research and Development (R&D). Conditional to a firm's R&D investment, this study makes a theoretical investigation into the role of two knowledge transfer strategies—industry coopetition and industry knowledge spillovers for a firm's innovation. Based on an analysis of a sample of 17,859 UK firms from 2002 to 2014, we demonstrated why and under what conditions firms will (a) invest in internal R&D, (b) engage in coopetition, and (c) access knowledge spillovers to introduce new to firm (incremental innovation) and new to market products (radical innovation). The results of this study demonstrate that firm managers who choose knowledge spillovers versus coopetition are likely to achieve radical vis-à-vis incremental innovation. Benefits from the coopetition can be achieved with low investment in R&D, while R&D is essential in recognizing the knowledge spillover for radical innovation. By deciding whether to deploy its costly R&D and access external knowledge via industry coopetition or spillovers, the firm is also making a concomitant decision about the type of innovative activity it will generate. Thus, a firm strategy for knowledge transfer and investing in knowledge internally is inextricably linked to a firm strategy involving the type of innovative output.
Entrepreneurial finance in Europe and the Russian war against Ukraine
Authors: Kraemer-Eis Helmut , Block Joern , Botsari Antonia , Lang Frank , Lorenzen Solvej , Diegel Walter
Published: March 2024

Prior research has investigated how the prices of stocks and commodities as well as inflation levels have been affected by the Russian war against Ukraine. So far, however, we know little about the impacts of the war on the entrepreneurial finance sector. Prior research on the effects of unexpected exogenous crisis events on entrepreneurial finance suggests a strong negative impact on new and follow-on funding for entrepreneurial ventures. Our study regards the Russian war against Ukraine as an unexpected exogenous crisis event and explores its impact on the entrepreneurial finance sector. It goes beyond a mere sentiment and impact analysis and also explores the underlying reasons and mechanisms as well as potential response and coping strategies employed by entrepreneurial finance investors. Based on two surveys of European venture capital (VC) and private equity (PE) investors, we find that the war had a strong negative impact on the two types of investors and their respective funds. Both VC and PE investors report more risk-aversion of limited partners (LPs) and LPs leaving the market as important challenges resulting in an overall lower willingness of LPs to invest. This applies in particular to banks, insurance funds, and pension funds. On the portfolio firm level, securing equity financing and maintaining liquidity were considered pressing issues. Overall, the situation seems to be more difficult for portfolio companies of VC as compared to PE investors. For the former, the financing- and liquidity-related issues seem to be more existential and survival-threatening. Responding to these challenges, both VC and PE investors altered their industry focus and put more emphasis on entrepreneurial experience. Financial investment selection criteria such as financial valuation, profitability, and cash- as well as revenue-generating capacity also increased in importance. Again, differences between VC and PE investors exist. Our study has implications for entrepreneurial finance theory and practice and concludes with an agenda for research on the impacts of the Russian war against Ukraine on entrepreneurial finance.
Productivity of innovation: the effect of innovativeness on start-up survival
Authors: Arcuri Maria Cristina , Russo Ivan , Gandolfi Gino
Published: March 2024

This paper provides arguments supporting the association between different measures of innovativeness (i.e., innovation capacity and effectiveness) and the survival of start-ups. Analysing a sample of 9171 innovative Italian start-ups, using Accelerated Failure Time models, we find two main results. First, patents and software licenses seem to strongly predict survival. Second, different measures of innovativeness complement each other: when Research and Development (R&D) expenditures pair with the ownership of patents/software and a skilled workforce, the overall effect on start-up survival gets stronger. It follows that innovativeness, in terms of high skills able to optimize R&D spending, is crucial for the survival of start-ups. Our findings should support policy-making for innovative capability development and “productivity of innovation”, and contribute to improving start-ups’ credit access and reduce their financial constraints.
An Application of Social Vulnerability Index to Infant Mortality Rates in Ohio Using Geospatial Analysis- A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Polavarapu Mounika , Barasa Topista N. , Singh Shipra , Orbain Matthew M. , Ibrahim Safa
Published: March 2024

Background

Ohio ranks 43rd in the nation in infant mortality rates (IMR); with IMR among non-Hispanic black infants is three times higher than white infants.

Objective

To identify the social factors determining the vulnerability of Ohio counties to IMR and visualize the spatial association between relative social vulnerability and IMR at county and census tract levels.

Methods

The social vulnerability index (SVICDC) is a measure of the relative social vulnerability of a geographic unit. Five out of 15 social variables in the SVICDC were utilized to create a customized index for IMR (SVIIMR) in Ohio. The bivariate descriptive maps and spatial lag model were applied to visualize the quantitative relationship between SVIIMR and IMR, accounting for the spatial autocorrelation in the data.

Results

Southeastern counties in Ohio displayed highest IMRs and highest overall SVIIMR; specifically, highest vulnerability to poverty, no high school diploma, and mobile housing. In contrast, extreme northwestern counties exhibited high IMRs but lower overall SVIIMR. Spatial regression showed five clusters where vulnerability to low per capita income in one county significantly impacted IMR (p = 0.001) in the neighboring counties within each cluster. At the census tract-level within Lucas county, the Toledo city area (compared to the remaining county) had higher overlap between high IMR and SVIIMR.

Conclusion

The application of SVI using geospatial techniques could identify priority areas, where social factors are increasing the vulnerability to infant mortality rates, for potential interventions that could reduce disparities through strategic and equitable policies.
CDKN2A promoter methylation enhances self-renewal of glioblastoma stem cells and confers resistance to carmustine
Authors: Wang Jing , Xi Yan-feng , Zhao Qi , Guo Jiang-hong , Zhang Zhen , Zhang Mao-bai , Chang Jiang , Wu Yue-qin , Su Wen
Published: March 2024

Background

Glioblastoma, a highly aggressive form of brain cancer, poses significant challenges due to its resistance to therapy and high recurrence rates. This study aimed to investigate the expression and functional implications of CDKN2A, a key tumor suppressor gene, in glioblastoma cells, building upon the existing background of knowledge in this field.

Method

Quantitative reverse transcription PCR (qRT-PCR) analysis was performed to evaluate CDKN2A expression in U87 glioblastoma cells compared to normal human astrocytes (NHA). CDKN2A expression levels were manipulated using small interfering RNA (siRNA) and CDKN2A overexpression vector. Cell viability assays and carmustine sensitivity tests were conducted to assess the impact of CDKN2A modulation on glioblastoma cell viability and drug response. Sphere formation assays and western blot analysis were performed to investigate the role of CDKN2A in glioblastoma stem cell (GSC) self-renewal and pluripotency marker expression. Additionally, methylation-specific PCR (MSP) assays and demethylation treatment were employed to elucidate the mechanism of CDKN2A downregulation in U87 cells.

Result

CDKN2A expression was significantly reduced in glioblastoma cells compared to NHA. CDKN2A overexpression resulted in decreased cell viability and enhanced sensitivity to carmustine treatment. CDKN2A inhibition promoted self-renewal capacity and increased pluripotency marker expression in U87 cells. CDKN2A upregulation led to elevated protein levels of p16INK4a, p14ARF, P53, and P21, which are involved in cell cycle regulation. CDKN2A downregulation in U87 cells was associated with high promoter methylation, which was reversed by treatment with a demethylating agent.

Conclusion

Our findings demonstrate that CDKN2A downregulation in glioblastoma cells is associated with decreased cell viability, enhanced drug resistance, increased self-renewal capacity, and altered expression of pluripotency markers. The observed CDKN2A expression changes are mediated by promoter methylation. These results highlight the potential role of CDKN2A as a therapeutic target and prognostic marker in glioblastoma.
How do spatial scale and seasonal factors affect thermal-based water status estimation and precision irrigation decisions in vineyards?
Authors: Bahat Idan , Netzer Yishai , Grünzweig José M. , Naor Amos , Alchanatis Victor , Ben-Gal Alon , Keisar Ohali’av , Lidor Guy , Cohen Yafit
Published: March 2024

The crop water stress index (CWSI) is widely used for assessing water status in vineyards, but its accuracy can be compromised by various factors. Despite its known limitations, the question remains whether it is inferior to the current practice of direct measurements of Ψstem of a few representative vines. This study aimed to address three key knowledge gaps: (1) determining whether Ψstem (measured in few vines) or CWSI (providing greater spatial representation) better represents vineyard water status; (2) identifying the optimal scale for using CWSI for precision irrigation; and (3) understanding the seasonal impact on the CWSI-Ψstem relationship and establishing a reliable Ψstem prediction model based on CWSI and meteorological parameters. The analysis, conducted at five spatial scales in a single vineyard from 2017 to 2020, demonstrated that the performance of the CWSI- Ψstem model improved with increasing scale and when meteorological variables were integrated. This integration helped mitigate apparent seasonal effects on the CWSI-Ψstem relationship. R2 were 0.36 and 0.57 at the vine and the vineyard scales, respectively. These values rose to 0.51 and 0.85, respectively, with the incorporation of meteorological variables. Additionally, a CWSI-based model, enhanced by meteorological variables, outperformed current water status monitoring at both vineyard (2.5 ha) and management cell (MC) scales (0.09 ha). Despite reduced accuracy at smaller scales, water status evaluation at the management cell scale produced significantly lower Ψstem errors compared to whole vineyard evaluation. This is anticipated to enable more effective irrigation decision-making for small-scale management zones in vineyards implementing precision irrigation.
Reconstruction of Carrington Rotation Means of Open Solar Flux over the Past 154 Years
Authors: Lockwood Mike , Owens Mat
Published: March 2024

We generate reconstructions of signed open solar flux (OSF) for the past 154 years using observations of geomagnetic activity. Previous reconstructions have been limited to annual resolution, but this is here increased by a factor of more than 13 by using averages over Carrington rotation (CR) intervals. We use two indices of geomagnetic activity, the homogeneous aa index, aaH, and the IDV(1d) index; a combination of the two is fitted to OSF estimates from near-Earth interplanetary satellite data. For 1995 – 2022, these are corrected for excess flux (i.e. orthogardenhose flux and switchbacks) using strahl electrons. For 1970 – 2022, we also use the absolute values of the radial component of the near-Earth interplanetary magnetic field ${\langle }|{\langle }B_{r}{\rangle }_{\tau }|{\rangle }_{CR}$

〈
|

〈

B
r

〉

τ

|
〉

C
R

, where the excess flux is allowed for by adopting the optimum averaging interval ${\tau }$
τ
of 20 h. However, in the interval 1970 – 1995, data gaps in the interplanetary data are a serious problem. The errors that these missing data cause in CR averages of OSF are evaluated by synthetically masking data for CRs that have a full complement, using the same number and time series of data gaps as for the CR in question. Given the potential for missing data to generate large errors, we use the near-continuous 1995 – 2022 data to derive the best-fit combination of the geomagnetic data and employ the 1970 – 1995 data for testing in which we can readily allow for the errors caused by data gaps. Errors caused by inaccuracies in the geomagnetic data are shown to be considerably smaller than the uncertainties due to the polynomial fitting. It is shown that the new reconstructions are consistent with the previous annual estimates and that there is considerable variability in the OSF values from one CR to the next; in particular, in high-activity solar cycles, there can be individual CRs in which the OSF exceeds that for adjacent CRs by a factor as large as two.
Estimation of regime-switching diffusions via Fourier transforms
Authors: Lux Thomas
Published: March 2024

In this article, an algorithm for maximum-likelihood estimation of regime-switching diffusions is proposed. The proposed approach uses a Fourier transform to numerically solve the system of Fokker–Planck or forward Kolmogorow equations for the temporal evolution of the state densities. Monte Carlo simulations confirm the theoretically expected consistency of this approach for moderate sample sizes and its practical feasibility for certain regime-switching diffusions used in economics and biology with moderate numbers of states and parameters. An application to animal movement data serves as an illustration of the proposed algorithm.
Candidate genes associated with reproductive traits in rabbits
Authors: Helal Mostafa , Sameh Jana , Gharib Sama , Merghany Rana M. , Bozhilova-Sakova Milena , Ragab Mohamed
Published: March 2024

In the era of scientific advances and genetic progress, opportunities in the livestock sector are constantly growing. The application of molecular-based methods and approaches in farm animal breeding would accelerate and improve the expected results. The current work aims to comprehensively review the most important causative mutations in candidate genes that affect prolificacy traits in rabbits. Rabbits are a source of excellent-tasting meat that is high in protein and low in fat. Their early maturity and intensive growth are highly valued all over the world. However, improving reproductive traits and prolificacy in rabbits could be very tricky with traditional selection. Therefore, traditional breeding programs need new methods based on contemporary discoveries in molecular biology and genetics because of the complexity of the selection process. The study and implementation of genetic markers related to production in rabbits will help to create populations with specific productive traits that will produce the desired results in an extremely short time. Many studies worldwide showed an association between different genes and productive traits in rabbits. The study of these polymorphisms and their effects could be useful for molecular-oriented breeding, particularly marker-assisted selection programs in rabbit breeding.
Ecological intensification: multifunctional flower strips support beneficial arthropods in an organic apple orchard
Authors: Favarin Sebastiano , Sommaggio Daniele , Fantinato Edy , Masiero Maddalena , Buffa Gabriella
Published: March 2024

Flower strips are a fundamental part of agri-environment schemes in the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP). Although vegetation is central for many arthropod groups, a few studies have evaluated the effects of flower strip structural and functional attributes on arthropod communities. In this study, we explored the relationship between flower strip attributes and the abundance of different arthropod functional groups in annual flower strips located in an organic apple orchard. We surveyed plant and arthropod communities in 30 1 m × 6 m plots. In each plot, we collected data on species composition and vegetation structure (e.g., total cover, density, number of floral displays). For each plant species, we also retrieved data on leaf palatability and nutritional value. Arthropods were collected using sweep netting technique. Structural and functional attributes of the flower strip revealed a crucial role in regulating arthropod abundance, which however depended on the specific arthropod functional group. We identified three main attributes (plant species richness, composition, and vegetation density) of flower strips that should be considered when implementing multifunctional flower strips. Specifically, plant species richness to ensure complementarity of resources and niches, plant species composition to ensure complementary floral resources, and vegetation density to ensure sheltering microhabitats and suitable microclimatic conditions and to increase the density of floral resources. Our results suggest that by considering structural and functional attributes of flower strips, it is possible to design multifunctional flower strips with greater effectiveness as measures for ecological intensification.
Dietary Zinc Supplementation in Steers Modulates Labile Zinc Concentration and Zinc Transporter Gene Expression in Circulating Immune Cells
Authors: Franco Carlos E. , Rients Emma L. , Diaz Fabian E. , Hansen Stephanie L. , McGill Jodi L.
Published: March 2024

Zinc (Zn) is critical for immune function, and marginal Zn deficiency in calves can lead to suboptimal growth and increased disease susceptibility. However, in contrast to other trace minerals such as copper, tissue concentrations of Zn do not change readily in conditions of supplementation or marginal deficiency. Therefore, the evaluation of Zn status remains challenging. Zinc transporters are essential for maintaining intracellular Zn homeostasis, and their expression may indicate changes in Zn status in the animal. Here, we investigated the effects of dietary Zn supplementation on labile Zn concentration and Zn transporter gene expression in circulating immune cells isolated from feedlot steers. Eighteen Angus crossbred steers (261 ± 14 kg) were blocked by body weight and randomly assigned to two dietary treatments: a control diet (58 mg Zn/kg DM, no supplemental Zn) or control plus 150 mg Zn/kg DM (HiZn; 207 mg Zn/kg DM total). After 33 days, Zn supplementation increased labile Zn concentrations (as FluoZin-3 fluorescence) in monocytes, granulocytes, and CD4 T cells (P < 0.05) but had the opposite effect on CD8 and γδ T cells (P < 0.05). Zn transporter gene expression was analyzed on purified immune cell populations collected on days 27 or 28. ZIP11 and ZnT1 gene expression was lower (P < 0.05) in CD4 T cells from HiZn compared to controls. Expression of ZIP6 in CD8 T cells (P = 0.02) and ZnT7 in B cells (P = 0.01) was upregulated in HiZn, while ZnT9 tended (P = 0.06) to increase in B cells from HiZn. These results suggest dietary Zn concentration affects both circulating immune cell Zn concentrations and Zn transporter gene expression in healthy steers.
Identification and validation of a novel six-gene signature based on mucinous adenocarcinoma-related gene molecular typing in colorectal cancer
Authors: Man Yuxin , Xin Dao , Ji Yang , Liu Yang , Kou Lingna , Jiang Lingxi
Published: March 2024

Background and objectives

Colorectal mucinous adenocarcinoma (MAC) is a particular pathological type that has yet to be thoroughly studied. This study aims to investigate the characteristics of colorectal MAC-related genes in colorectal cancer (CRC), explore the role of MAC-related genes in accurately classifying CRC, and further construct a prognostic signature.

Methods

CRC samples were collected from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO). MAC-related differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were analyzed in TCGA samples. Based on colorectal MAC-related genes, TCGA CRC samples were molecularly typed by the non-negative matrix factorization (NMF). According to the molecular subtype characteristics, the RiskScore signature was constructed through univariate Cox, the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO), and multivariate Cox regression analyses. Clinical significance in CRC of the RiskScore signature was analyzed. A nomogram was further built based on the RiskScore signature.

Results

From the colorectal MAC-related genes, three distinct molecular subtypes were identified. A RiskScore signature composed of six CRC subtype-related genes (CALB1, MMP1, HOXC6, ZIC2, SFTA2, and HYAL1) was constructed. Patients with high-RiskScores had the worse prognoses. RiskScores led to differences in gene mutation characteristics, antitumor drug sensitivity, and tumor microenvironment of CRC. A nomogram based on the signature was developed to predict the one-, three-, and five-year survival of CRC patients.

Conclusion

MAC-related genes were able to classify CRC. A RiskScore signature based on the colorectal MAC-related molecular subtype was constructed, which had important clinical significance for guiding the accurate stratification of CRC patients.