bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The expression of anti‐aging protein Klotho is increased during neural differentiation of bone marrow‐derived mesenchymal stem cells
Authors: Naeeni Bahareh , Taha Masoumeh Fakhr , Emami Aleagha Mohamad Sajad , Allameh Abdolamir
Published: January 2023

Klotho, as an antiaging protein, is involved in the maintenance and differentiation of neuronal or glial cells and, therefore, has been noticed as a potential therapeutic target for neurodegenerative disorders. Expression of Klotho has been examined in different cells and organs, however, our information about the developmental pattern of this protein during differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) into neuron‐like cells is limited. In this study, we conducted neural differentiation of mouse bone marrow‐derived‐MSCs and monitored the expression of Klotho together with selected neuron‐specific genes at messenger RNA (mRNA) on days 7 and 14 of differentiation using quantitative real‐time PCR. In addition, Klotho status at protein level was evaluated by immunocytochemistry. The results showed a significant change in the morphology of MSCs towards neuron‐like cells. These changes were observed with progressive growth and formation of cell connections towards the formation of a chain of neuron‐like cells which occurred in the second week of differentiation. Morphological changes were associated with a significant increase in the expression of neuron‐specific genes like pax‐6, neuN and, neurofilaments (NfL). Likewise, there was an increased expression of Klotho mRNA, and accumulation of Klotho protein in neuronal cell bodies, during the cellular differentiation of MSCs. These findings provided new evidence that neuronal differentiation from the MSCs is associated with increased expression of Klotho. These data may provide insight into the importance of Klotho protein in stem cell differentiation and regeneration in response to cell death in the central nervous system.
Proteomics Update and Perspectives from the Proteomics in Cell Biology and Disease Mechanisms Conference
Authors: Kotliar Ilana B.
Published: January 2023

Proteomics, or the large‐scale study of proteomes, has benefitted from many recent advances in chemical biology, mass spectrometry, and machine learning. The Proteomics in Cell Biology and Disease Mechanisms conference showcased the synergy between these elements and the vast range of biological questions that proteomics can now help us to answer.
EFMC: Trends in Medicinal Chemistry and Chemical Biology
Authors: Auberson Yves P. , Arimondo Paola B. , Duca Maria , Essig Sebastian , Grether Uwe , Rufer Arne C. , Sbardella Gianluca , Schopfer Ulrich , Torrens Antoni , van der Stelt Mario , Vauzeilles Boris , Vázquez Olalla , Zhang Andrew X.
Published: January 2023

Ground‐breaking research in disease biology and continuous efforts in method development have uncovered a range of potential new drug targets. Increasingly, the drug discovery process is informed by technologies involving chemical probes as tools. Applications for chemical probes comprise target identification and assessment, as well as the qualification of small molecules as chemical starting points and drug candidates. Progress in probe chemistry has opened the way to novel assay formats and pharmaceutical compound classes. The European Federation of Medicinal Chemistry and Chemical Biology (EFMC) has launched the Chemical Biology Initiative to advance science in the field of medicinal chemistry and chemical biology, while representing all members of this extended scientific community. This review provides an overview of the many important developments in the field of chemical biology that have happened at the lively interface of academic and industrial research.
Analyzing RNA‐Protein Interactions by Cross‐Link Rates and CLIP‐seq Libraries
Authors: Porter Douglas F. , Garg Raghav M. , Meyers Robin M. , Miao Weili , Ducoli Luca , Zarnegar Brian J. , Khavari Paul A.
Published: January 2023

UV cross‐linking‐based methods are the most common tool to explore in vivo RNA‐protein interactions. UV cross‐linking enables the freezing of direct interactions in the cell, which can then be mapped by high‐throughput sequencing through a family of methods termed CLIP‐seq. CLIP‐seq measures the distribution of cross‐link events by purifying a protein of interest and sequencing the covalently bound RNA fragments. However, there are disagreements and ambiguities as to which proteins are RNA‐binding proteins and what interactions are significant as all proteins contact all RNAs at some frequency. Here we describe a protocol for both determining RNA‐protein interactions through a combination of RNA library preparation and the measurement of absolute cross‐link rates, which helps determine what proteins are RNA‐binding proteins and what interactions are significant. This protocol, comprising an updated form of the easyCLIP protocol, describes guidelines for RNA library preparation, oligo and protein standard construction, and the measurement of cross‐link rates. These methods are easily visualizable through their fluorescent labels and can be adapted to study RNA‐binding properties of both functional, high affinity RNA‐binding proteins, and the accidental RNA interactions of non‐RNA‐binding proteins. © 2023 Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol 1: RNA library construction

Basic Protocol 2: Determining UV cross‐link rates

Support Protocol 1: Cross‐linking and lysing cells

Support Protocol 2: Adapter preparation

Support Protocol 3: Preparation of cross‐linked RBP standard
Dupilumab provides early and durable improvement of symptoms in patients with chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps
Authors: Gevaert Philippe , Lee Stella E , Settipane Russell A , Wagenmann Martin , Msihid Jérôme , Siddiqui Shahid , Nash Scott , Jacob‐Nara Juby A , Khan Asif H , Kamat Siddhesh , Chuang Chien‐Chia
Published: January 2023

Objectives

To evaluate within‐patient symptom improvement in the dupilumab SINUS‐24/‐52 studies in patients with severe chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) (NCT02912468/NCT02898454).

Methods

Patients received dupilumab 300 mg or placebo every 2 weeks for 24 (SINUS‐24) or 52 weeks (SINUS‐52) on background intranasal corticosteroids. Patients daily reported symptoms of nasal congestion (NC), loss of smell (LoS) and rhinorrhoea on a scale of 0–3 (0 – no symptoms, 1 – mild, 2 – moderate, 3 – severe symptoms). The proportions of patients with moderate‐to‐severe symptoms (score ≥ 2) at baseline who improved to no‐to‐mild symptoms (score ≤ 1) were determined at Weeks 2, 24 (pooled studies) and 52 (SINUS‐52). Subgroups with prior sinonasal surgery and coexisting asthma were analysed.

Results

At baseline in the pooled intention‐to‐treat population (n = 724), the proportions of patients with scores ≥ 2 for NC, LoS and rhinorrhoea were 87, 94 and 64%, respectively. Significantly, more patients achieved scores ≤ 1 (no/mild symptoms) with dupilumab vs placebo for each symptom at each time point {Week 2 NC 12% vs 2% [odds ratio 8.9 (95% CI 3.0–26.3)], LoS 5% vs 1% [4.6 (1.3–16.8)], rhinorrhoea 9% vs 2% [4.8 (1.5–15.4)], all P < 0.05; Week 24 NC 54% vs 14% [8.7 (5.6–13.5)], LoS 43% vs 6% [14.4 (7.9–26.0)], rhinorrhoea 53% vs 16% [6.6 (4.1–10.9)], all P < 0.0001}. Results were similar in subgroups with prior surgery and coexisting asthma.

Conclusion

Significantly, more patients achieved improvement from moderate‐to‐severe symptoms to no‐to‐mild symptoms with dupilumab than placebo, regardless of prior surgery or coexisting asthma. Improvement was observed as early as Week 2 and continued through to Week 52.
Spatiotemporal predictions of the alternative prey hypothesis: Predator habitat use during decreasing prey abundance
Authors: Brunet Mitchell J. , Monteith Kevin L. , Huggler Katey S. , Thompson Daniel J. , Burke Patrick W. , Zornes Mark , Lionberger Patrick , Valdez Miguel , Holbrook Joseph D.
Published: January 2023

The alternative prey hypothesis supposes that predators supported by a primary prey species will shift to consume alternative prey during a decrease in primary prey abundance. The hypothesis implies that during declines of one prey species, a predator modifies their behavior to exploit a secondary, or alternative, species. Despite occurring in many systems, the behavioral mechanisms (e.g., habitat selection) allowing predators to shift toward alternative prey during declines in the abundance of their primary prey are poorly understood. We evaluated habitat selection and use by a generalist predator with respect to two prey species during a dramatic decrease in the abundance of primary prey. Further, we evaluated how spatial variation in access to primary prey affected habitat selection, and assessed similarity and overlap between habitats used by each prey species. Coyotes (Canis latrans) exhibited decreasing selection for cottontail rabbits (Sylvilagus spp.; primary prey) during population decreases but did not shift habitat selection toward neonate mule deer (Odocoileus hemionus; alternative prey). Use of rabbit habitat remained high even during historically low rabbit abundance, while mule deer habitat was used in proportion to its availability. Coyotes seemingly do not make large shifts in habitat selection toward alternative prey following spatial and temporal decreases in the abundance of primary prey, but instead, take advantage of habitat overlap to facilitate prey‐switching behavior. Our work extends previous research conducted under the alternative prey hypothesis by explicitly evaluating the influence of habitat overlap between prey species and variation in access to prey habitat as factors affecting prey‐switching behaviors in predators.
An Effective Non‐Enzymatic Glucose Biosensor Based on Nanostructured CuxO/Cu Electrodes Synthesized in Situ by Copper Anodization
Authors: Wang Chen , Gao Nan , Gao Zhaoqing , Li Ruofan , Wang Yunpeng , Gong Weitao
Published: January 2023

Potentiostatic anodization was developed to synthesize copper oxide/copper (CuxO/Cu, x=1,2) electrode with nano structure for sensitive non‐enzymatic glucose detection. At a catalytic potential of 0.55 V, the CuO/Cu electrode presented a high sensitivity of 2954.38 μA mM−1 cm−2 to glucose and a linear range of 0.1 mM to 1.3 mM. The response time is less than 3 s with addition of 0.1 mM glucose. The CuO/Cu electrode above was anodized in 1M KOH solution at −100 mV and the morphology was compact nanoparticles and sparsely dispersed nanosheets, which enlarged the surface area and provided abundant electrocatalytic active sites. Compared the sensing property of electrodes with different morphologies, it indicated that nanostructure was significant to the efficient glucose catalytic oxidation process and it could be regulated by changing the potential and electrolyte concentration during anodization.
The role of data science in environmental digital twins: In praise of the arrows
Authors: Blair Gordon S. , Henrys Peter A.
Published: January 2023

Digital twins are increasingly important in many domains, including for understanding and managing the natural environment. Digital twins of the natural environment are fueled by the unprecedented amounts of environmental data now available from a variety of sources from remote sensing to potentially dense deployment of earth‐based sensors. Because of this, data science techniques inevitably have a crucial role to play in making sense of this complex, highly heterogeneous data. This short article reflects on the role of data science in digital twins of the natural environment, with particular attention on how resultant data models can work alongside the rich legacy of process models that exist in this domain. We seek to unpick the complex two‐way relationship between data and process understanding. By focusing on the interactions, we end up with a template for digital twins that incorporates a rich, highly dynamic learning process with the potential to handle the complexities and emergent behaviors of this important area.
Recognition and completeness: two key metrics for judging the utility of citizen science data
Authors: Mesaglio Thomas , Callaghan Corey T , Samonte Fabrice , Gorta Simon BZ , Cornwell William K
Published: January 2023

Biodiversity citizen science data are being collected at unprecedented scales, and are key for informing conservation and research. Species‐level data typically provide the most valuable information, but recognition of specimens to species level from photographs varies among taxa. We examined a large dataset of Australian photographic observations of terrestrial invertebrates uploaded to iNaturalist to quantify recognition to species across different taxa. We also quantified the proportion of Australian species that have been uploaded to iNaturalist. Across 1,013,171 observations covering 14,663 species (17.8% completeness), 617,045 (60.9%) were recognized to species. Dragonflies/damselflies and butterflies were the best‐recognized and most complete taxa, and therefore represent the best groups for researchers and managers intending to use existing iNaturalist data at large spatial and temporal scales. The recruitment of additional experts to identify records, and enhanced support for accessible resources for hard‐to‐identify taxa, will likely increase recognition for other taxa.
lncRNA TINCR knockdown inhibits colon cancer cells via regulation of autophagy
Authors: Xu Jianhua , Zeng Wenge , Liu Tiantian , Wan Zhenda , Yang Xin , Chen Jun , Liu Fei
Published: January 2023

The present study aimed to evaluate the effects of long noncoding (lnc)RNA TINCR ubiquitin domain containing (TINCR) on the development of colon cancer, and the specific underlying mechanisms. The present study used adjacent healthy and cancer tissues obtained from patients with colon cancer and measured lncRNA TINCR expression using reverse transcription‐quantitative (RT‐q) PCR and in situ hybridization assays. Moreover, associations between lncRNA TINCR and clinicopathology and prognosis were also investigated. In addition, the gene and protein expression levels of lncRNA TINCR, mTOR, LC 3B, P62, and Beclin1 were measured using RT‐qPCR and western blotting assays. Cell proliferation, apoptosis, invasion, and migration were measured using MTT, Edu staining, flow cytometry, TUNEL, Transwell, and wound‐healing assays, and cell ultrastructure and LC 3B activation were measured using transmission electron microscopy and cellular immunofluorescence. Results of the present study demonstrated that lncRNA TINCR expression was significantly upregulated in colon cancer tissues, and the overall survival of the low‐expression group was significantly increased, compared with that of the high‐expression groups. In addition, the results of the present study demonstrated that lncRNA TINCR was associated with clinicopathology in patients with colon cancer. Moreover, following lncRNA TINCR knockdown using transfection with small interfering RNA‐TINCR, results of the present study demonstrated that cell proliferation was significantly reduced, while cell apoptosis was significantly increased. In addition, cell invasion and migration were significantly reduced, and autophagy was increased in HT‐29 and SW620 cell lines. However, following treatment with an mTOR agonist (an autophagy inhibitor), biological activities were significantly increased in HT‐29 and SW‐620 cell lines. Collectively, these results demonstrated that lncRNA TINCR may induce colon cancer development through the regulation of autophagy.
Vegetable proteins as encapsulating agents: Recent updates and future perspectives
Authors: Islam Fakhar , Amer Ali Yuosra , Imran Ali , Afzaal Muhammad , Zahra Syeda Mahvish , Fatima Maleeha , Saeed Farhan , Usman Ifrah , Shehzadi Umber , Mehta Shilpa , Shah Mohd Asif
Published: January 2023

The use of proteinaceous material is desired as it forms a protective gelation around the active core, making it safe through temperature, pH, and O2 in the stomach and intestinal environment. During the boom of functional food utilization in this era of advancement in drug delivery systems, there is a dire need to find more protein sources that could be explored for the potential of being used as encapsulation materials, especially vegetable proteins. This review covers certain examples which need to be explored to form an encapsulation coating material, including soybeans (conglycinin and glycinin), peas (vicilin and convicilin), sunflower (helianthins and albumins), legumes (glutenins and albumins), and proteins from oats, rice, and wheat. This review covers recent interventions exploring the mentioned vegetable protein encapsulation and imminent projections in the shifting paradigm from conventional process to environmentally friendly green process technologies and the sensitivity of methods used for encapsulation. Vegetable proteins are easily biodegradable and so are the procedures of spray drying and coacervation, which have been discussed to prepare the desired encapsulated functional food. Coacervation processes are yet more promising in the case of particle size formation ranging from nano to several hundred microns. The present review emphasizes the significance of using vegetable proteins as capsule material, as well as the specificity of encapsulation methods in relation to vegetable protein sensitivity and the purpose of encapsulation accompanying recent interventions.
Visually impaired people and grocery shopping in store: First evidence from brain oscillations electroencephalogram
Authors: Acconito Carlotta , Angioletti Laura , Balconi Michela
Published: January 2023

Grocery shopping represents a challenging task for visually impaired (VI), but the neuroscientific literature on the consumption patterns of this group is still scarce. The aim of the study was to analyse the relationship between explicit consumer experience and neuropsychological measures. A group of VI and sighted explored and manipulated three different product categories inside the supermarket, while EEG, behavioral and self‐report data were collected. Electroencephalogram (EEG) findings showed a generalized delta band activity in pasta compared to frozen food and it was interpreted as higher emotional activation probably required by selecting the correct stimuli in a multisensory environment. A delta band activation was also found in frontal area in VI compared to control and it was supposed to be an index of greater cognitive control. Finally, higher delta band activity in parieto‐occipital and temporal areas were related to greater sense of disorientation. In conclusion, it was found that VI experience grocery shopping more stressfully and with greater cognitive effort (parieto‐occipital area) than people without visual disability. In general, VI use the sense of touch (temporal area) more and have more difficulties in orienting themselves internally in the store. The results could encourage the use of tactile touchpoints, braille maps, or an initial guided exploration of the supermarket, to allow the VI to memorize the internal layout of the different product categories and allow them to shop independently. Another suggestion would be to make products within the same product category more distinctive, perhaps by adding additional tactile information.
Surface and mechanical properties of polyurethane central venous catheters after repeated contact with chemotherapy excipient solutions
Authors: Khzam Afif , Saunier Johanna , Carpentier Léa , Mignot Agnès , Tortolano Lionel , Yagoubi Najet
Published: January 2023

This article investigates the impact of the interactions between polyurethane central venous catheters and solutions containing excipients used in cisplatin and paclitaxel formulations. Changes to the properties of catheters and the leaching of catheter additives into the infused solutions were studied while these solutions were infused cyclically for several months. Chemotherapy treatment was mimicked in vitro in compliance with hospital practices. The treatment cycle was repeated 10 times, using solutions containing only the excipients. After 10 treatment cycles, no physical or chemical degradation of the catheter was observed. Mechanical performances were stable, but surface modifications occurred, causing the surface to become more hydrophobic. A loss in polyurethane antioxidant amount was observed in part due to a leaching phenomenon.
Effect of signaled reinforcement on response variability
Authors: Reed Phil
Published: January 2023

Three experiments examined the effect of signaling reinforcement on rats' lever pressing on contingencies that reinforced variable responding to extend the exploration of signaled reinforcement to a schedule that has previously not been examined in this respect. In Experiment 1, rats responding on a lag‐8 variability schedule with signaled reinforcement displayed greater levels of variability (U values) than rats on the same schedule lacking a reinforcement signal. In Experiment 2, rats responding on a differential reinforcement of least frequent responses schedule also displayed greater operant variability with a signal for reinforcement compared with rats without a reinforcement signal. In Experiment 3, a reinforcement signal decreased the variability of a response sequence when there was no variability requirement. These results offer empirical corroboration that operant variability responds to manipulations in the same manner as do other forms of operant response and that a reinforcement signal facilitates the emission of the required operant.
An evaluation of radiation therapy patient body mass index trends and potential impact on departmental resource planning
Authors: Laing Branagh , Caldwell Peter , Vincent Debra , Rattray Gregory
Published: January 2023

Introduction

Radiation therapy (RT) offers a less invasive management option for bariatric cancer patients. As the proportion of Australians categorised overweight or obese approaches 70%, it is not well understood how this growth will impact RT departments. The aim of this study was to evaluate the current and potential future body mass index (BMI) of RT patients at one centre, with the purpose of identifying variables that may impact resource planning decisions.

Methods

De‐identified demographic data including gender, age, diagnosis code, activity code and BMI were obtained from MOSAIQ® oncology information system for 5548 courses of RT commenced between 2017 and 2020, and retrospectively analysed. Descriptive statistics were used to summarise the data. Simple and multiple linear regression was used to analyse for statistically significant relationships between variables.

Results

Of all patient courses, 64% were overweight or obese. Average BMI increased over time by 0.3 kg/m2 per year. Courses related to the young and elderly had a lower average BMI. Breast, brain/skull, and pelvis/prostate treatment sites had a significant association with a higher average BMI. Thorax treatment sites had a lower average BMI, but this average is increasing at the fastest rate of all treatment sites. Prone breast courses had an average BMI 5.58 kg/m2 higher than IMRT/VMAT courses.

Conclusion

Results demonstrate that patient BMI is increasing. Resources related to breast courses (breast board, prone board) and thorax courses (lung board) may experience increased strain in the future. Modifications to department workflow and scheduling are likely required. Further research into staffing implications is recommended.
Projection of gust wind over China under RCP8.5 scenario within CORDEX‐EA‐II project
Authors: Liu Gang , Li Tongxin , Zhu Xiaoyu , Wang Shuyu , Tang Jianping
Published: January 2023

A wind gust parameterization scheme combined with the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model used as the regional climate model (RCM) is employed to simulate and project the gust wind speed at 10‐m height above ground level for the whole China in the historical and future period 1981–2005 and 2036–2060. The gust wind speed is compared between the historical and future period to investigate its long‐term change under the background of warming climate within the CORDEX‐EA‐II project under the RCP8.5 scenario. First, the gust wind speed simulated by the gust parameterization inputted with the RCM simulations driven by the ERA‐Interim reanalysis data is compared with the ERA5 reanalysis data and their discrepancy is discussed. Then the historical/future gust wind speed is simulated/projected with the RCM simulations driven by four global climate models' results. The comparisons between the historical simulations and future projections show the gust wind speeds overall change slightly with little response to the future warming climate as the whole China is concerned, and the maximal increment and decrement of averaged annual maximal gust wind speed are, respectively, 2.25 and −2.57 m·s−1. The increases greater than 1 m·s−1 are mostly located in the eastern and southeastern coast and northwestern inland while the decreases less than −1 m·s−1 are mostly located in part of the Tibet Plateau and northwestern inland.
Genome‐wide association study of variation in cooking time among common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) accessions using Diversity Arrays Technology markers
Authors: Wahome Samuel Wanjohi , Githiri Mwangi Stephen , Kinyanjui Peter Kahenya , Toili Mary Esther Muyoka , Angenon Geert
Published: January 2023

Stored grains of common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) develop the hard‐to‐cook trait (HTC), which is manifested in a prolonged cooking time, thereby imposing time and energy constraints. The objective of this study was to determine variation in cooking time among common bean genotypes and to identify single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers associated with cooking time.

Seeds of 222 common bean accessions sourced from Kenyan institutions were multiplied in the Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) field in 2019. The freshly harvested seeds and those stored at 35°C and 50% red haricot (RH) for 4 months for accelerated aging were soaked in distilled water for 16 h and evaluated for cooking time using the finger‐pressing method. The accessions were also genotyped to determine variation in SNP markers using Diversity Arrays Technology Sequencing (DArTseq). Genome‐wide association study (GWAS) analysis was conducted to identify SNPs significantly associated with cooking time.

The study revealed significant differences (p ≤ 0.05) within and between fresh and aged bean accessions. Fresh seeds had a lower cooking time with a mean of 40.8 min and ranged from 28.1 to 72.2 min, whereas aged seeds had a higher average cooking time of 54.1 min and ranged from 32.1 to 96.3 min. GWAS identified a region in Chromosome 10 to be significantly (p ≤ 0.05) associated with the cooking time of aged seeds. Consequently, two potential candidate genes Phvul.010G038000 and Phvul.010G038100 were revealed. The characterized common bean accessions and the identified SNP markers can be utilized in breeding programs to improve the cooking quality of the common bean.
Monodromy conjecture for semi‐quasihomogeneous hypersurfaces
Authors: Blanco Guillem , Budur Nero , van der Veer Robin
Published: January 2023

We give a proof of the monodromy conjecture relating the poles of motivic zeta functions with roots of b‐functions for isolated quasihomogeneous hypersurfaces, and more generally for semi‐quasihomogeneous hypersurfaces. We also give a strange generalization allowing a twist by certain differential forms.
Embeddings of anisotropic Besov spaces into Sobolev spaces
Authors: Bartusel David , Führ Hartmut
Published: January 2023

We study the embeddings of (homogeneous and inhomogeneous) anisotropic Besov spaces associated to an expansive matrix A into Sobolev spaces, with a focus on the influence of A on the embedding behavior. For a large range of parameters, we derive sharp characterizations of embeddings.
Competitive analysis of R&D investment with R&D budget constraint and R&D uncertainty
Authors: Gao Xing , Wang Ying
Published: January 2023

This paper examines the cost‐reducing research and development (R&D) competition of duopolistic firms with consideration of R&D budget constraint and R&D uncertainty through constructing a game‐theoretic game. We find the R&D success probability decreases each firm's expected profit when this probability remains high because it intensifies R&D competition too much in this scenario. We show each firm suffers from an increase in R&D budget when such budget is moderate due to the intensified R&D competition as well. Furthermore, we reveal output subsidy leads to a higher expected total subsidy cost and a higher expected social welfare than R&D subsidy.
Broadband flip‐suspended‐microstrip transition for millimeter‐wave MMIC package
Authors: Zhang Bo , Jiang Wei , Zhang Yong , Wu Chengkai
Published: January 2023

In this letter, a novel millimeter‐wave chip packaging method based on flip‐suspended‐microstrip technology is proposed. The flip‐suspended‐microstrip contains a waveguide probe, a suspended microstrip line, input and output matching lines, and a terminal pad. The waveguide probe realizes energy coupling from the rectangular waveguide, and the terminal pad above the signal pad of chip achieves power transmission via electronic contact. Thus, the bonding wires which will bring parasitic inductance at high frequencies are avoided. To validate the proposed packaging method, back‐to‐back modules with coplanar waveguide/low noise amplifier were fabricated. The measured insertion loss of the back‐to‐back transition with a 1.75‐mm‐long coplanar waveguide is 2.6–4.2 dB over the entire D‐band, while the packaging loss of the low noise amplifier module with the back‐to‐back transition is less than 2.2 dB at 120–170 GHz, which indicate that the proposed broadband transition is feasible for millimeter‐wave chip packaging.
Approximate B1+ scaling of the SSFP steady state
Authors: Ganter Carl
Published: January 2023

Purpose

It is shown that the steady state of rapid, TR‐periodic steady‐state free precession (SSFP) sequences at small to moderate flip angles exhibits a universal, approximate scaling law with respect to variations of . Implications for the accuracy and precision of relaxometry experiments are discussed.

Methods

The approximate scaling law is derived from and numerically tested against known analytical solutions. To assess the attainable estimator precision in a typical relaxometry experiment, we calculate the Cramér–Rao bound (CRB) and perform Monte Carlo (MC) simulations.

Results

The approximate universal scaling holds well up to moderate flip angles. For pure steady state relaxometry, we observe a significant precision penalty for simultaneous estimation of and , whereas good estimates can be obtained without even knowing the correct actual flip angle.

Conclusion

Simultaneous estimation of and from a set of SSFP steady states alone is not advisable. Apart from separate measurements, the problem can be addressed by adding transient state information, but, depending on the situation, residual effects due to the scaling may still require some attention.
The Predictors of Persistent Posttracheostomy Tracheocutaneous Fistula and Successful Surgical Closure
Authors: Yosefof Eyal , Tsur Nir , Boldes Tomer , Najjar Esmat , Mizrachi Aviram , Shpitzer Thomas , Hamzany Yaniv , Bachar Gideon
Published: January 2023

Objective

Persistent tracheocutaneous fistula is a well‐described complication of prolonged tracheostomy, with a prevalence of about 70% when decannulation is performed after more than 16 weeks. Predictors of its occurrence and outcome of treatment in adults remain unclear. The aim of the study was to describe our experience with the treatment of persistent posttracheostomy tracheocutaneous fistula in adults and to investigate factors associated with its formation and with the success of surgical closure.

Study Design

Retrospective cohort.

Setting

Tertiary medical center.

Methods

Patients who underwent open‐approach tracheostomy between 2000 and 2020 were identified by database review. Data on background, need for surgical closure, and the surgical outcome was collected from the medical files and analyzed statistically between groups.

Results

Of 516 patients identified, 127 with sufficient long‐term follow‐up data were included in the study. Compared to patients whose fistula closed spontaneously (n = 85), patients who required surgical closure (n = 42) had significantly higher rates of smoking, laryngeal or thyroid malignancy, and airway obstruction as the indication for tracheostomy, on both univariate and multivariate analysis. In a comparison of patients with successful (n = 29) or failed (n = 11) surgical closure, factors significantly associated with failure were prior radiotherapy and lower preoperative albumin level, on univariate analysis.

Conclusion

Smoking, thyroid or laryngeal malignancy, and airway obstruction indication are risk factors for persistent posttracheostomy tracheocutaneous fistula. Patients should be closely followed after tracheostomy and referred for surgery if the fistula fails to close. Before surgery, careful evaluation of the patient's nutritional status and consideration of prior radiation treatment is mandatory.
Bridging scenario planning and backcasting: A Q‐analysis of divergent stakeholder priorities for future landscapes
Authors: Jiren Tolera Senbeto , Abson David James , Schultner Jannik , Riechers Maraja , Fischer Joern
Published: January 2023

Many landscapes in sub‐Saharan Africa have undergone rapid changes, often with negative social and ecological impacts. Avoiding (or reversing) such negative impacts requires proactive landscape planning. Scenario planning, a participatory approach that generates narratives of plausible landscape change trajectories in the future, has been widely used to support landscape planning and decisions. However, not least because of challenges arising from group dynamics, few examples exist where backcasting—the collective envisioning of a desirable future landscape and the identification of pathways to reach that future—has been applied in landscape planning.

In this study, building on past scenario planning work in southwestern Ethiopia, we begin to fill this empirical and methodological gap. Specifically, we used the Q‐methodology to elucidate stakeholders' divergent landscape aspirations in a case study in southwestern Ethiopia.

Our results show that many stakeholders share a similar vision of building a future landscape that supports smallholder‐based development. However, details in the envisaged pathways differ between stakeholders. Three distinct pathways were prioritized by different stakeholders: (1) Agroecological production, (2) Coffee investment and (3) Intensive food crop production. Accounting for these divergent aspirations is important when taking further steps in landscape planning.

We show how using the Q‐methodology as a subjective assessment of stakeholders' landscape priorities can facilitate the integration of backcasting within the normative process of landscape planning. Our approach thus helps navigate conflicting stakeholders' preferences and based on that, carefully plan collective action towards a shared landscape vision.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Friction and wear properties of polyacrylonitrile‐ and pitch‐based carbon fiber‐reinforced polymer matrix composites containing silicon carbide nanoparticles
Authors: Naito Kimiyoshi , Nakamura Morimasa , Matsuoka Takashi
Published: January 2023

This study investigated the friction and wear properties of high‐strength polyacrylonitrile (HS‐PAN)‐, high‐modulus polyacrylonitrile (HM‐PAN)‐, and high‐modulus pitch (HM‐pitch)‐based carbon fiber‐reinforced polymer matrix composites (CFRPs) with silicon carbide (SiC) nanoparticles. The fiber orientation of the CFRP specimens was set as 8‐ply unidirectional laminates, denoted as [0]8. Ball‐on‐disk (cyclic) wear testing was accompanied by laser, digital, and scanning electron microscope observations. For the HS‐PAN CFRP, the coefficient of friction and wear resistance were the highest among the HM‐PAN and HM‐pitch CFRPs and wear resistance was improved by the addition of SiC‐nanoparticles. Furthermore, there was no significant enhancement of wear resistance for the SiC‐nanoparticle‐filled and nanoparticle‐unfilled HM‐PAN CFRP. The wear resistance was improved by adding SiC‐nanoparticles for the HM‐pitch CFRP.
Effect of Jigsaw and Team Pair‐Solo cooperative learning strategies on interest in Basic Science of primary school children with visual impairment
Authors: Nnamani Ogechi , Hadebe‐Ndlovu Blanche Ntombizodwa , Okeke Chinedu I. , Ede Moses Onyemaechi
Published: January 2023

This study investigated the effect of the Jigsaw and Team‐Pair Solo cooperative learning strategies on interest in Basic Science of primary school children with visual impairment. This is a pretest–posttest control group with a follow‐up design study. A total of 56 students in Enugu State of Nigeria were randomized into one of two groups, n = 27 (male: n = 18; female: n = 9) for the treatment group and n = 29 for the control group (male: n = 20; female: n = 9). A Learner's Interest Rating Scale was used as an outcome measure. The results showed that there was a significant difference in the interest of students with visual impairment exposed to intervention strategies and those exposed to conventional‐lecture strategy in favor of those exposed to intervention strategies. This concluded that Jigsaw and Team Pair‐Solo cooperative learning strategies are effective treatment strategies that enhance the interest of students with visual impairment in Basic Science.
Perfectionism, intolerance of uncertainty and coping in relation to fear of cancer recurrence in breast cancer patients
Authors: Blom Mariska , Guicherit Onno R. , Hoogwegt Madelein T.
Published: January 2023

Objective

Improved medical treatment has led to an increased cohort of cancer survivors. The prevalence of emotional problems in this group is high, with fear of cancer recurrence (FCR) being among the most prevalent and distressing conditions. In order to gain more insight in the psychological mechanisms playing a role in levels of FCR, this study examined the relationship between perfectionism and FCR in breast cancer patients, as well as the mediating role of intolerance of uncertainty (IU) and coping in this relationship. In order to contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of the mechanisms related to the experience of FCR in breast cancer patients, the purpose of the present study is to investigate the relationship between perfectionism and FCR, with IU and coping strategies as possible mediating factors.

Methods

Validated Dutch versions of the FCR Inventory, the Multidimensional Perfectionism Scale, the Intolerance of Uncertainty Scale and the Utrechtse Coping List were filled out by 146 breast cancer patients, at least one year after (finishing) medical treatment. Correlation analyses were conducted to administer the associations between FCR, perfectionism, IU, coping and demographic/medical variables. PROCESS was used to examine mediation mechanisms.

Results

A significant correlation was found between perfectionism and FCR (r = 0.19, p = 0.024). IU was found to mediate the relationship between perfectionism and FCR. In contrast, coping style did not emerge as a significant mediating factor.

Conclusions

This study shows that intolerance of uncertainty mediates the relationship between perfectionism and FCR. Psychological interventions targeting FCR may benefit from incorporating specific modules on dealing with uncertainty. Future research is necessary to further increase understanding of the mechanisms that play a role in FCR, in order to optimize and personalize psychological treatment for cancer patients with this type of emotional distress.
The importance of botanic gardens for global change research—New insights into Cambridge's hidden truffle kingdom
Authors: Centenaro Giada , Glover Beverley J. , Piermattei Alma , Thomas Paul W. , Čejka Tomáš , Büntgen Ulf
Published: January 2023

Social Impact Statement

Botanic gardens offer unique opportunities for unravelling responses of plant life to climate change. Despite investigations into their aboveground sphere, the belowground realm is usually neglected. Cambridge University Botanic Garden now illuminates the hidden world of one of the most sought‐after culinary delicacies—the Burgundy truffle. The garden's plant diversity, the serendipity of a truffle dog, and our curiosity‐driven research agenda reveal insights into 278 truffle fruitbodies that grew symbiotically with an unusually high number of host species. Our study reinforces the power of botanic gardens to disentangle ecosystem processes and emphasizes the proximity of scientific and public interests in truffles.
Impulse oscillometry in preschool children with persistent asthma can predict spirometry at school age
Authors: Grell Alberto Vidal , Vera Ramiro González , Yarur Alejandra Méndez , Castro‐Rodriguez Jose A. , Montenegro María Angélica Palomino , Colodro Oscar Fielbaum , Elías Selim Abara , Bentjerodt Mónica Saavedra , Poblete Jorge Mackenney
Published: January 2023

Background

Lung function in children with persistent asthma may be impaired during preschool and school ages. The aim of this study was to describe if some preschool impulse oscillometry (IOS) parameters are related to spirometry alterations on reaching school age.

Methods

In 66 diagnosed with persistent asthma, an IOS was performed at entrance and followed‐up to school age where a spirometry was done.

Results

The mean age was 4.9 years at the first evaluation and 7.9 years at the second evaluation, and 59.1% were male. During preschool, R5, R20, Fres, AX, and D5−20 were found to have diagnostic accuracy (area under the curve > 0.7) for predicting abnormal spirometry during school age (defined as FEV1 and/or FEV/FVC and/or FVC values below the lower limit of normality according to Quanjer predictive values). AX, D5−20, and R5 had the best LR+ to increase the probability of abnormal spirometry (50, 10, and 7.1, respectively). R20, R5, and AX was the best IOS parameters for discriminating bronchodilator response (BDR) in schoolchildren (LR+ = 3.4, 2.9, and 2.8, respectively).

Conclusion

The findings of this study indicate that some IOS parameters between 3 and 5 years of age are useful for predicting abnormal spirometry and BDR at school age.
Rational design of bifunctional chimeric peptides that combine antimicrobial and titanium binding activity
Authors: Drexelius Marco , Arnold Rebekka , Meinberger Denise , Wilhelm Michael , Mathur Sanjay , Neundorf Ines
Published: January 2023

Bacterial biofilm formation remains a serious problem for clinical materials and often leads to implant failure. To counteract bacterial adhesion, which initiates biofilm formation, the development of antibiotic surface coating strategies is of high demand and warrants further investigations. In this study, we have created bifunctional chimeric peptides by fusing the recently developed antimicrobial peptide MGD2 (GLRKRLRKFFNKIKF) with different titanium‐binding sequences. The novel peptides were investigated regarding their antibacterial potential against a set of different bacterial strains including drug‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus. All peptides showed high antimicrobial activities both when in solution and when immobilized on titanium surfaces. Owing to the ease of synthesis and handling, the herein described peptides might be a true alternative to prevent bacterial biofilm formation.
Unusual presentation of alveolar capillary dysplasia with misalignment of the pulmonary veins in a child with respiratory syncytial virus pneumonia: A case report
Authors: Sirianansopa Kantisa , Prasertsan Pharsai , Ruangnapa Kanokpan , Saelim Kantara , Kor‐anantakul Phawin
Published: January 2023

Alveolar capillary dysplasia with misalignment of the pulmonary veins (ACDMPV) is a rare congenital diffuse lung disorder, with a fatal course during the neonatal period. We describe an 18‐month‐old boy who presented with respiratory syncytial virus pneumonia and pulmonary hypertensive crisis requiring extracorporeal membrane oxygenation. Exome sequencing revealed a FOXF1 frameshift variant, NM_001451.2:c.995_998delACTC, inherited from his asymptomatic mother. Genetic findings were compatible with histopathology findings from a lung biopsy. Based on the disease course, histopathology, and outcomes of this case, we believe ACDMPV should be considered a possibility in an infant presenting with hypoxemic respiratory failure, resistant pulmonary hypertension, and vasodilator‐induced pulmonary edema. Genetic testing can contribute to the diagnostic process.
CFD analysis of environmentally friendly wave mitigation measures in river waterways
Authors: Preuß Julia , Fleit Gábor , Baranya Sándor
Published: January 2023

The impacts of navigation on the hydromorphological and ecological conditions of rivers are manifold. Most of the relevant effects can be linked to ship‐induced waves, which temporarily alter the prevailing flow conditions. The impacts of waves are usually the highest in the shallower (littoral) zones, where the whole water column is affected by the increased flow velocities. The mitigation of these effects is desired to improve ecological conditions as well as prevent bank erosion processes. In this study, a numerical modeling‐based methodology is presented for the quantitative evaluation of environmentally friendly wave mitigation measures (inspired by already existing examples). The hydrodynamic effects of a timber piling‐type and gravel bar‐type breakwater is analyzed via the modeling framework through a case study in a Hungarian section of the Danube River. In addition, an ecohydraulic case study is presented for the predictive drift risk evaluation of juvenile fish (common nase). The prevailing flow velocities in the near‐bank area were in the limits of the swimming capabilities of the nase, showing the relevance of the impact and the need for its mitigation. The statistical evaluation of the hydrodynamic and ecohydraulic results showed the beneficial effects of the measures in a well‐comparable manner. Additional effects and the current limitations of the methodology are discussed.
Majority dynamics on sparse random graphs
Authors: Chakraborti Debsoumya , Han Kim Jeong , Lee Joonkyung , Tran Tuan
Published: January 2023

Majority dynamics on a graph is a deterministic process such that every vertex updates its ‐assignment according to the majority assignment on its neighbor simultaneously at each step. Benjamini, Chan, O'Donnell, Tamuz and Tan conjectured that, in the Erdős–Rényi random graph , the random initial ‐assignment converges to a ‐agreement with high probability whenever . This conjecture was first confirmed for for a large constant by Fountoulakis, Kang and Makai. Although this result has been reproved recently by Tran and Vu and by Berkowitz and Devlin, it was unknown whether the conjecture holds for . We break this ‐barrier by proving the conjecture for sparser random graphs , where with a large constant .
Improving Loops that Matter
Authors: Schoenberg William , Hayward John , Eberlein Robert
Published: January 2023

The Loops that Matter (LTM) approach to understanding behavior has proven easy to use and broadly applicable, but it has a shortcoming in its original formulation. This is because the original formulation treats the impact of a flow on a stock relative to the net flow, so that all scores tend to get very large in magnitude as a stock approaches equilibrium, but how big depends strongly on how the flows are specified. By reformulating the link scores from a flow to a stock, this topological dependency is removed. The mathematics behind this approach makes clear the relationship of LTM to the Pathway Participation and Loop Impact analysis methods. The result of this, when applying the analysis to a variety of models, is that the determination of the structure responsible for behavior is clearer, and more clearly tied to work already documented using other techniques. © 2023 The Authors. System Dynamics Review published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of System Dynamics Society.