bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Psyllium husk mucilage as a novel seed encapsulant for agriculture and reforestation
Authors: Dingley Cameron , Cass Peter , Adhikari Benu , Bendre Prajakta , Mantri Nitin , Daver Fugen
Published: September 2024

Introduction

An efficient, economical, and flexible reforestation system capable of uncrewed aerial vehicle (UAV) deployment is a global necessity. Hydrogels have been previously investigated for their use in agriculture, however, research is limited in terms of UAV deployment. Psyllium Husk Mucilage (PHM) a natural hydrogel seed mucilage, has been previously investigated in other agricultural settings and shows promise in fulfilling the needs of UAV seeding.

Materials and Methods

A greenhouse trial was conducted under controlled laboratory conditions using two soil conditions 50% and 90% field capacity. PHM and bentonite clay blends containing dextran (DEX) and sodium alginate (SA) were tested for efficacy for two agricultural crops Green beans (Phaseolus vulgaris) and Lebanese cucumber (Cucumis sativus), as well as three Australian native species Acacia stenophylla, Cymbopogon refractus, and Eucalyptus coolabah. Agricultural Trials were conducted across a 4‐week period, whilst A. stenophylla was 8 weeks, and C. refractus and E. coolabah was 12 weeks.

Results

Utilisation of PHM had varying effectiveness based on seed and soil moisture. In nonagricultural seed trials, PHM hydrogel succeeded with A. stenophylla but dried out and rotted in the extended trials with C. refractus and E. Coolabah, leading to plant death. The encapsulated agricultural seeds were largely outperformed in growth trials by C‐Planted at 50% FC, and C‐Surface at 90% FC.

Conclusion

PHM exhibits potential for successful UAV seeding in low‐moisture agricultural conditions and is promising for fast‐germinating plants or other riverbank species with high water content requirements. Without extending degradation time PHM is not suitable for slow‐growing species.
Impact of Surface Modification on the Oxidation of Linear Aliphatic Alcohols by Vanadium Complexes Supported on Merrifield Resin with Mixed Functionality Ligands
Authors: Kachhap Payal , Chaudhary Nikita , Haldar Chanchal
Published: September 2024

Two oxidovanadium(IV) complexes [VO(xbp‐sc)] (1) and [VO(xbp‐tc)] (2) were prepared using hydrazine‐ether mixed functionality ligands Hxbp‐sc (I) and Hxbp‐tc (II), respectively. Complexes 1 and 2 were carefully grafted separately into imidazole‐modified chloromethylated polystyrene (Ps−Im) and unmodified chloromethylated polystyrene (PS−Cl) beads. Successfully anchored vanadium complexes Ps−Im‐[VO(xbp‐sc)] (3), Ps−Im‐[VO(xbp‐tc)] (4), Ps‐[VO(xbp‐sc)] (5), and Ps‐[VO(xbp‐tc)] (6) were tested for their catalytic potential towards the oxidation of aliphatic alcohols in the presence of hydrogen peroxide. Polymer‐grafted catalysts display excellent substrate conversion compared to most recent reports and good recyclability up to three cycles without losing much reactivity. High TOF values in the range of 183–591 h−1 are observed for the supported catalysts 3–6. The highest substrate conversion is observed for ethanol (63–97 %) under the optimized reaction conditions. Mainly, better substrate conversion is obtained with imidazole‐modified polymer beads grafted catalysts 3 and 4 than those grafted on unmodified polymer beads (5 and 6). Moreover, catalysts with the semicarbazide group in their ligand framework (3 and 5) show better reactivity towards alcohol with fewer carbon atoms. On the contrary, alcohols with longer carbon chains oxidize more easily in the presence of the catalyst with thiosemicarbazide frameworks (4 and 6).
Synthesis, Antimicrobial Evaluation, Molecular Docking and Dynamics Simulations of Novel 2,3‐Disubstituted Quinazolin‐4(3H)‐one Derivatives
Authors: Verma Priyanka , Xiang Lai Zhen , Chaube Udit , Natesan Gopal
Published: September 2024

The rise of multidrug‐resistant organisms (MDROs) represents a significant challenge to healthcare, underscoring the need for novel antimicrobial agents. Quinazolinone compounds, noted for their diverse biological activities, particularly at the 2nd and 3rd positions, in conjunction with sulphanilamide and isatin derivatives, present a promising avenue for antibacterial development. This study focuses on the synthesis of novel 2,3‐disubstituted quinazolin‐4(3H)‐one derivatives from Schiff base intermediates GA3A and GA3B. The synthesis involved the reaction of 2‐(substituted phenyl)‐4H‐benzo[d][1,3]‐oxazin‐4‐one with sulphanilamide, and the benzoxazinone intermediates were prepared by reacting anthranilic acid with benzoyl chloride. The antibacterial activities of the Schiff base intermediates and the final Mannich base compounds were evaluated against Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus cereus, Escherichia coli, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa at concentrations of 50 µg/mL and 100 µg/mL using the agar well diffusion method, with Norfloxacin (50 µg/mL) as the reference standard. While all tested compounds exhibited lower antibacterial activity compared to the standard, GA4A1 showed enhanced efficacy against E. coli, achieving the highest docking score of 78.0352 against the E. coli protein (PDB ID: 1KZN). Molecular dynamics simulations revealed that the GA4A1‐E. coli complex stabilized after 40,000 ps, with root mean square deviation (RMSD) values ranging from 2.5 Å to 5 Å and low root mean square fluctuation (RMSF) values between 0.05 Å and 0.2 Å, indicating the stability of the complex. These findings underscore GA4A1’s potential as a potent antimicrobial agent against E. coli.
Synthesis and Density Functional Theory Study on the Functionalization of Carbon Nanotube Conjugates with Amino Compounds and Their Application in Dyeing Processes
Authors: Khalaf Qadoori Zedan , Mohsen Moneer K. , Al‐Salihi Kareem Jumaah Jibrael , Omer Rebaz Anwar , Azeez Yousif Hussein
Published: September 2024

This study investigates the functionalization of graphene nanotube (GNTs) conjugates with an amino compound called 1‐amino‐2‐hydroxy‐4‐naphthalene sulfonic acid (AHNSA‐GNTs). The study also evaluates the potential application of these conjugates in dyeing processes. The goal is to modify GNTs to enhance their interaction with dyes, thus improving the efficiency of dyeing textiles and the colorfastness of the resulting products. Multiple characterization methods, such as X‐ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and atomic force microscopy (AFM) were used to get a better look at the composites. The findings of the study indicate that AHNSA‐GNTs composites improve dye retention on wool fibers, which leads to a reduction in the consumption of excess dye and water. Density Functional Theory (DFT) calculations were utilized to investigate the electronic properties and binding energies of the functionalized CNTs, providing insights into the molecular interactions between the CNTs and amino compounds. Overall, this study highlights the promising applications of graphene nanotubes in sustainable textile processes. Frontier molecular orbitals (FMOs) and global reactivity descriptors serve as key tools for understanding the stability and chemical reactivity of compounds. These tools were used to calculate FMOs and electronic parameters of compounds 1 and 2 at the B3LYP/6‐31G(d) level of theory. The study examined the highest occupied molecular orbital (HOMO)‐lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (LUMO) energy gap, which provides insights into molecular stability and reactivity. Various physical properties were derived from these calculations, including electron affinity (EA) and ionization potential (IP) to LUMO and HOMO energies. Compound 2 emerged as the most efficient electron donor, possessing the highest HOMO energy, while compound 1 excelled as the best electron acceptor with the highest LUMO energy.
Synthesis of Multifunctional Chemosensors for Naked Eye Detection of Cu2+ and Hg2+; Application in Paper Strips, Water, and Food Sample
Authors: Dhawale Annasaheb , Trivedi Darshak R.
Published: September 2024

Three chemosensors ISA‐1, ISA‐2, and ISA‐3 were synthesized for the detection of Cu2+ and Hg2+ ions in a 50% H₂O‐DMF solution. ISA‐1 is specifically designed for the detection of Cu2+ ions, while ISA‐2 can detect both Cu2⁺ and Hg2⁺ ions. Upon interaction with Cu2⁺, ISA‐1 undergoes a naked‐eye colorimetric transition from pink to blue. ISA‐2 exhibits a similar pink‐to‐blue color change in the presence of Cu2+ ion, however, colorless when exposed to Hg2+ ion. The detection limits for Cu2+ using ISA‐1 and ISA‐2 are 0.574 ppm and 0.0074 ppm, respectively, both of which are significantly lower than the WHO guideline of ≤1.5 ppm for Cu2+ in drinking water. These chemosensors have also been successfully integrated into paper strips and logic gate systems and applied for the analysis of water and food samples.
Transition Metal–Free Synthesis of Vinyl Nitriles from Aldehydes with Acetonitrile at Room Temperature
Authors: Li Qing , Liu Wenjing , Xie Yuyao , Zhao Feng
Published: September 2024

A simple and mild protocol for the direct synthesis of vinyl nitriles is described. By employing potassium trimethylsilanolate as the mild base and benzyl chloride as the efficient promoter, a series of E‐configured vinyl nitriles are selectively obtained from readily available aldehydes and acetonitrile at room temperature without the aid of a transition metal catalyst. Mechanistical investigations reveal that this transformation may go through a Knoevenagel condensation process.
What can we do for obstructive sleep apnea patients in China?
Authors: Zhang Ranxu , Ou Qiong
Published: September 2024

Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a heterogeneous disease, having diversity in symptom, polysomnography parameter, etc. Studies have found that apnea–hypopnea index as a single measure cannot reflect its heterogeneity. More personalized diagnostic criteria and treatment measures are needed. But there are different kinds of results with different races and regions. It is essential to consider the characteristics of the local population when formulating individual treatment plan. There are significant discrepancies between Chinese and White race in terms of morphologic features, daily habits, religious beliefs and so on. However, the research based on the Chinese population still suffers from scarcity. This review sums up recent progress of studies on OSA from the Chinese population to provide useful references for related research and treatment in the future.
Boosted Near‐Infrared Photothermal Conversion in Rare Earth Ions‐Doped 2D SnSe Nanosheets for Solar‐Powered Water Evaporation Systems
Authors: Hu Jinhua , Yao Xin , Han Keyu , Ge Yumeng , Xu Shiqing , Bai Gongxun
Published: September 2024

Solar‐powered water evaporation as a clean and abundant renewable energy‐efficient desalination technology provides a promising strategy to solve the shortage of freshwater resources. However, the development and application of solar vapor technology are hindered by the relatively low near‐infrared photothermal conversion efficiency of existing materials and the lack of effective improvement strategies. In this work, the conductivity characteristics of 2D semiconductors are capitalized on the high visible light absorption and ultra‐low thermal. Specifically, rare‐earth ion dopants into SnSe nanosheets, significantly boosting their near‐infrared photothermal conversion efficiency and solar water evaporation performance are introduced. Remarkably, the photothermal conversion efficiency of the doped SnSe nanosheets surged from 51.56% to 82.11%, surpassing many previously reported photothermal materials. Furthermore, leveraging these nanosheets with enhanced photothermal conversion efficiency, a solar interfacial evaporation system is constructed. The evaporation rate of 2.17 kg m−2 h−1 and the efficiency of 96.5% can be achieved at one solar irradiance, and it also has good salt‐resistance properties. The findings demonstrate the potential of rare earth ion‐doped 2D semiconductor nanosheets in solar water evaporation, paving the way for future sustainable desalination solutions.
A Methyl‐Engineered DNAzyme for Endogenous Alkyltransferase Monitoring and Self‐Sufficient Gene Regulation
Authors: He Yuqiu , Wang Qing , Zhang Qingqing , Wang Yifei , Jiang Yuqian , Zhao Qiu , Liu Xiaoqing , Wang Fuan
Published: September 2024

The on‐demand gene regulation is crucial for extensively exploring specific gene functions and developing personalized gene therapeutics, which shows great promise in precision medicines. Although some nucleic acid‐based gene regulatory tools (antisense oligonucleotides and small interfering RNAs) are devised for achieving on‐demand activation, the introduction of chemical modifications may cause undesired side effects, thereby impairing the gene regulatory efficacy. Herein, a methyl‐engineered DNAzyme (MeDz) is developed for the visualization of endogenous alkyltransferase (AGT) and the simultaneous self‐sufficiently on‐demand gene regulation. The catalytic activity of DNAzyme can be efficiently blocked by O6‐methylguanine (O6MeG) modification and specifically restored via the AGT‐mediated DNA‐repairing pathway. This simply designed MeDz is demonstrated to reveal AGT of varying expression levels in different cells, opening the possibility to explore the AGT‐related biological processes. Moreover, the AGT‐guided MeDz exhibits cell‐selective regulation on the human early growth response‐1 (EGR‐1) gene, with efficient gene repression in breast cancer cells and low effectiveness in normal cells. The proposed MeDz offers an attractive strategy for on‐demand gene regulation, displaying great potential in biomedical applications.
Deciphering the genetic basis of novel traits that discriminate useful and non‐useful biomass to enhance harvest index in wheat
Authors: Shahi Dipendra , Guo Jia , Babar Md Ali , Pradhan Sumit , Avci Muhsin , Khan Naeem , McBreen Jordan , Rayamajhi Smita , Liu Zhao , Bai Guihua , Amand Paul St. , Bernardo Amy , Reynolds Matthew , Molero Gemma , Sukumaran Sivakumar , Foulkes John , Khan Jahangir
Published: September 2024

Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) production must be doubled in the next 25 years to meet the global food demand. Harvest index (HI) is an important indicator of efficient partitioning of photosynthetic assimilates to grains. Reducing competition from alternative sinks, such as stems, and deviating assimilates toward grain increase grain number (GN), HI, and grain yield (GY). Novel partitioning traits have great potential to be utilized in wheat breeding programs to increase HI. In this study, we evaluated 236 US facultative soft wheat genotypes for multiple stem and spike partitioning traits at 7 days after anthesis, and for GN, HI, and GY in two locations of Florida in 2016–2017 and 2017–2018 wheat growing seasons. The panel was genotyped with 20,706 single nucleotide polymorphisms generated by genotype‐by‐sequencing approach. Spike partitioning index (SPI) showed negative significant correlations with lamina partitioning index and true stem partitioning index. Internode 2 and 3 lengths and partitioning indices had significant negative correlations with SPI and HI. The results indicate enhanced competition for assimilates between spikes and second and third internodes during stem elongation. Genome‐wide association study (GWAS) identified 114 unique significant marker‐trait associations (MTAs) for 12 traits, and 58 MTAs were found within genes that encode different proteins related to biotic/abiotic stress tolerance and other functions. Significant MTAs identified in the GWAS were converted into kompetitive allele specific PCR markers. Some of the markers were validated and can be effectively employed in marker‐assisted selection to improve HI, GY, and GN.
Exploring Saccharomycotina Yeast Ecology Through an Ecological Ontology Framework
Authors: Harrison Marie‐Claire , Opulente Dana A. , Wolters John F. , Shen Xing‐Xing , Zhou Xiaofan , Groenewald Marizeth , Hittinger Chris Todd , Rokas Antonis , LaBella Abigail Leavitt
Published: September 2024

Yeasts in the subphylum Saccharomycotina are found across the globe in disparate ecosystems. A major aim of yeast research is to understand the diversity and evolution of ecological traits, such as carbon metabolic breadth, insect association, and cactophily. This includes studying aspects of ecological traits like genetic architecture or association with other phenotypic traits. Genomic resources in the Saccharomycotina have grown rapidly. Ecological data, however, are still limited for many species, especially those only known from species descriptions where usually only a limited number of strains are studied. Moreover, ecological information is recorded in natural language format limiting high throughput computational analysis. To address these limitations, we developed an ontological framework for the analysis of yeast ecology. A total of 1,088 yeast strains were added to the Ontology of Yeast Environments (OYE) and analyzed in a machine‐learning framework to connect genotype to ecology. This framework is flexible and can be extended to additional isolates, species, or environmental sequencing data. Widespread adoption of OYE would greatly aid the study of macroecology in the Saccharomycotina subphylum.
The Particularities of Romanian Management
Authors: Văduva Sebastian , Prisac Igor , Lîsîi Aliona
Published: September 2024

In the global landscape of business, effective leadership and collaboration hinge upon understanding and managing individuals within diverse cultural contexts. This article delves into the intricate tapestry of Romanian management practices, spotlighting the profound impact of culture, history, and socioeconomic factors on managerial philosophies. Positioned at the crossroads of Eastern and Western influences, Romania offers a compelling case study, showcasing a blend of tradition, innovation, and resilience in its managerial approach. Drawing on historical narratives and socioeconomic transitions, this article examines seven distinct characteristics that define Romanian management. Firstly, it explores the emphasis on relationship-oriented leadership, where familial bonds and interpersonal connections foster a supportive and cohesive work environment. Secondly, it highlights the innate flexibility and malleability ingrained in Romanian managers, enabling them to navigate through uncertainties with agility and strategic foresight. Moreover, the article sheds light on the prevalence of hierarchical structures and centralized decision-making, reflecting a cultural preference for strong leadership and clear chains of command. It also delves into the nuances of indirect communication, where diplomacy and subtlety play pivotal roles in navigating business negotiations. Furthermore, it explores the reverence for authority and formality, which permeate professional interactions, while resilience and humour emerge as hallmarks of Romanian management, enabling organizations to weather adversity with grace and determination.
Digital Twins and E-Learning: Navigating Challenges and Opportunities
Authors: Jankovskis Dzintars , Cirule Iveta , Carbone Anna
Published: September 2024

Digital Twin (DT) has gained significant traction over the last decade, and it has been defined many times from different perspectives by the academy and industry communities. Although DTs are widely used in e.g. manufacturing, healthcare, agriculture, their potential applications will soon extend and cover other domains. In this scenario, education is required to play a major role in building its own DT models for purposes ranging from academic to professional training. The DT technology in the education context is expected to enhance the outcomes and scopes of the standard digital e-learning approaches. A particular aspect of the research includes how the DT concept can be transferred over to e-learning and its technology adjusted for a virtual to virtual model. Furthermore, DT is a unique phenomenon, often misinterpreted, that need to be well-defined within a proper framework. In this work, we present the architecture of a Prototypical Digital Twin architecture and explain the importance of defining a framework for a DT-Learning concept.
Curating Reagents in Chemical Reaction Data with an Interactive Reagent Space Map
Authors: Andronov Mikhail , Andronova Natalia , Wand Michael , Schmidhuber Jürgen , Clevert Djork-Arné
Published: September 2024

The increasing use of machine learning and artificial intelligence in chemical reaction studies demands high-quality reaction data, necessitating specialized tools enabling data understanding and curation. Our work introduces a novel methodology for reaction data examination centered on reagents - essential molecules in reactions that do not contribute atoms to products. We propose an intuitive tool for creating interactive reagent space maps using distributed vector representations, akin to word2vec in Natural Language Processing, capturing the statistics of reagent usage within datasets. Our approach enables swift assessment of reagent action patterns and identification of erroneous reagent entries, which we demonstrate using the USPTO dataset. Our contributions include an open-source web application for visual reagent pattern analysis and a table cataloging around six hundred of the most frequent reagents in USPTO annotated with detailed roles. Our method aims to support organic chemists and cheminformatics experts in reaction data curation routine.
Massive two-loop four-point Feynman integrals at high energies with AsyInt
Authors: Zhang Hantian
Published: September 2024

Abstract

We present analytic techniques for parametric integrations of massive two-loop four-point Feynman integrals at high energies, and their implementation in the toolbox AsyInt. In the high-energy region, the Feynman integrals involving external and internal massive particles, such as the top quark, Higgs and vector bosons, can be asymptotically expanded and directly calculated in the small-mass limit. With this approach, analytic results for higher-order terms in the expansion parameter and the dimensional regulator can be obtained with AsyInt. These results are important ingredients for the two-loop electroweak and QCD corrections for 2 → 2 scattering processes in the large transverse momenta region, which is relevant to both precision collider phenomenology and new physics searches at current and future high-energy colliders. In this paper, analytic results of representative planar and non-planar Feynman integrals are presented.
Gravitational production of completely dark photons with nonminimal couplings to gravity
Authors: Capanelli Christian , Jenks Leah , Kolb Edward W. , McDonough Evan
Published: September 2024

Abstract

Dark photons are a theorized massive spin-1 particle which can be produced via various mechanisms, including cosmological gravitational particle production (GPP) in the early universe. In this work, we extend previous results for GPP of dark photons to include nonminimal couplings to gravity. We find that nonminimal couplings can induce a ghost instability or lead to runaway particle production at high momentum and discuss the constraints on the parameter space such that the theory is free of instabilities. Within the instability-free regime we numerically calculate the particle production and find that the inclusion of nonminimal couplings can lead to an enhancement of the particle number. As a result, GPP of nonminimally coupled dark photons can open the parameter space for production of a cosmological relevant relic density (constituting all or part of the dark matter) as compared to the minimally-coupled theory. These results are independent of the choice of inflation model, which we demonstrate by repeating the analysis for a class of rapid-turn multi-field inflation models.
Proof of 5D An AGT conjecture at β = 1
Authors: Shen Qian , Huang Zi-Hao , Hu Shao-Ping , Yuan Qing-Jie , Zhang Kilar
Published: September 2024

Abstract

In this paper, we give a proof of 5D An AGT conjecture at β = 1, where the gauge theory side is one dimension higher than the original 4D case, and corresponds to the q-deformation of the 2D conformal field theory side. We define a q-deformed An Selberg integral, which generalizes the An Selberg integral and the q-deformed A1 Selberg integral in the literature. A q-deformed An Selberg average formula with n + 1 Schur polynomials is proposed and proved to complete the proof.
Unveiling desert region in inert doublet model assisted by Peccei-Quinn symmetry
Authors: Ghosh Anupam , Konar Partha
Published: September 2024

Abstract

The Inert Higgs Doublet model (IDM), assisted by Peccei-Quinn (PQ) symmetry, offers a simple but natural framework of a dark sector that accommodates Weakly Interacting Massive Particle (WIMP) and axion as dark matter components. Spontaneous breaking of U(1)PQ symmetry, which was originally proposed as an elegant solution to the strong charge-parity (CP) problem, also ensures the stability of WIMP through a residual ℤ2 symmetry. Interestingly, additional fields necessitated by PQ symmetry further enrich the dark sector. These include a scalar field proprietor for axion DM and a vector-like quark (VLQ) that acts as a portal for the dark sector through Yukawa interactions. Moreover, this combination of the axion and WIMP components satisfies the observed DM relic density and reopens the phenomenologically exciting region of the IDM parameter space where the WIMP mass falls between 100 - 550 GeV. We investigate the model-independent pair production of VLQs exploring this region at the Large Hadron Collider (LHC), incorporating the effects of next-to-leading order (NLO) QCD corrections. After production, each VLQ decays into a top or bottom quark accompanied by an inert scalar, a consequence of the residual ℤ2 symmetry. Utilising relevant observables with a leptonic search channel and employing multivariate analysis, we demonstrate the ability of this analysis to exclude a significant portion of the parameter space with an integrated luminosity of 300 fb−1.
On Bethe equations of 2d conformal field theory
Authors: Procházka Tomáš , Watanabe Akimi
Published: September 2024

Abstract

We study the higher spin algebras of two-dimensional conformal field theory from the perspective of quantum integrability. Starting from Maulik-Okounkov instanton R-matrix and applying the procedure of algebraic Bethe ansatz, we obtain infinite commuting families of Hamiltonians of quantum ILW hierarchy parametrized by the shape of the auxiliary torus. We calculate explicitly the first five of these Hamiltonians. Then, we numerically verify that their joint spectrum can be parametriezed by solutions of Litvinov’s Bethe ansatz equations and we conjecture a general formula for the joint spectrum of all ILW Hamiltonians, based on results of Feigin, Jimbo, Miwa and Mukhin.

There are two interesting degeneration limits, the infinitely thick and the infinitely thin auxiliary torus. In one of these limits, the ILW hierarchy degenerates to Yangian or Benjamin-Ono hiearchy and the Bethe equations can be easily solved. The other limit is singular but we can nevertheless extract local Hamiltonians corresponding to quantum KdV or KP hierarchy. Litvinov’s Bethe equations in this local limit provide an alternative to Bethe ansatz equations of Bazhanov, Lukyanov and Zamolodchikov, but are more transparent, work at any rank and are manifestly symmetric under triality symmetry of $$ \mathcal{W} $$
W
1+∞. Finally, we illustrate analytic properties of the solutions of Bethe equations in minimal models, in particular for Lee-Yang CFT. The analytic structure of Bethe roots is very rich as it captures the representation theory of $$ \mathcal{W} $$
W
N minimal models.
Spherical Logvinenko–Sereda–Kovrijkine type inequality and null-controllability of the heat equation on the sphere
Authors: Dicke Alexander , Veselić Ivan
Published: September 2024

It is shown that the restriction of a polynomial to a sphere satisfies a Logvinenko–Sereda–Kovrijkine type inequality (a specific type of uncertainty relation). This implies a spectral inequality for the Laplace–Beltrami operator, which, in turn, yields observability and null-controllability with explicit estimates on the control costs for the spherical heat equation that are sharp in the large and in the small time regime.
A naturally occurring 22-amino acid fragment of human hemoglobin A inhibits autophagy and HIV-1
Authors: Freisem Dennis , Rodriguez-Alfonso Armando A. , Lawrenz Jan , Zhou Zhixuan , Monecke Thomas , Preising Nico , Endres Sascha , Wiese Sebastian , Ständker Ludger , Kuan Seah-Ling , Thal Dietmar R. , Weil Tanja , Niessing Dierk , Barth Holger , Kirchhoff Frank , Harms Mirja , Münch Jan , Sparrer Konstantin M. J.
Published: September 2024

Autophagy is an evolutionarily ancient catabolic pathway and has recently emerged as an integral part of the innate immune system. While the core machinery of autophagy is well defined, the physiological regulation of autophagy is less understood. Here, we identify a C-terminal fragment of human hemoglobin A (HBA1, amino acids 111–132) in human bone marrow as a fast-acting non-inflammatory inhibitor of autophagy initiation. It is proteolytically released from full-length HBA1 by cathepsin E, trypsin or pepsin. Biochemical characterization revealed that HBA1(111–132) has an in vitro stability of 52 min in human plasma and adopts a flexible monomeric conformation in solution. Structure–activity relationship studies revealed that the C-terminal 13 amino acids of HBA1(120–132) are sufficient to inhibit autophagy, two charged amino acids (D127, K128) mediate solubility, and two serines (S125, S132) are required for function. Successful viruses like human immunodeficiency virus 1 (HIV-1) evolved strategies to subvert autophagy for virion production. Our results show that HBA1(120–132) reduced virus yields of lab-adapted and primary HIV-1. Summarizing, our data identifies naturally occurring HBA1(111–132) as a physiological, non-inflammatory antagonist of autophagy. Optimized derivatives of HBA1(111–132) may offer perspectives to restrict autophagy-dependent viruses.
The effect of targeting both quantitative and qualitative objectives in generative design tools on the design outcomes
Authors: Saadi Jana I. , Chong Leah , Yang Maria C.
Published: September 2024

Current generative design tools backed by artificial intelligence (AI) primarily allow for quantitative inputs while qualitative aspects of a design, in particular aesthetics, have been shown to be considered indirectly by designers. To explore this further, controlled lab experiments were conducted to understand how designers incorporate quantitative and qualitative objectives while using generative design tools and how their behavior may affect design performance. Thirty-four participants completed a design task with quantitative and qualitative objectives with and without generative design tools. The outcomes produced using generative design tools displayed a greater aesthetic diversity and expanded a larger portion of the objective space compared to those without using a generative design tool. Participants also expressed the ability to focus on the qualitative objectives by delegating the quantitative objective to the generative design tool. This showcases the potential for high-performing generative design tools to assist human designers by alleviating part of their cognitive load when balancing multiple objectives, giving them the bandwidth to focus on other objectives not fully incorporated by the tool. In this way, leveraging the expertise of both the human designer and the generative design tool can allow for greater consideration of various objectives throughout the design process.
The Adams isomorphism revisited
Authors: Cnossen Bastiaan , Lenz Tobias , Linskens Sil
Published: September 2024

We establish abstract Adams isomorphisms in an arbitrary equivariantly presentable equivariantly semiadditive global category. This encompasses the well-known Adams isomorphism in equivariant stable homotopy theory, and applies more generally in the settings of G-Mackey functors, G-global homotopy theory, and equivariant Kasparov categories.
Reliability of Chest Wall Perforator Flaps for Breast Reshaping following Massive Weight Loss
Authors: Hammad Mai Raafat Abdelazim , Badawy Mohamed Samir , Naguib Eman Nagy , Mabrouk Amr
Published: September 2024

Background

Breast deformity following massive weight loss poses a unique challenge inadequately managed by traditional methods. Patients also have considerable lateral and posterior upper trunk tissue surplus.

Multiple studies have used chest wall flaps for auto-augmentation with mastopexy to tackle this problem. However, the outcome measures did not include any objective tools to assess the reliability of these flaps. Hence, in this study sono-mammography and breast anthropometric measurements are used for evaluation of the added volume and long-term sustainability of chest wall perforator flaps.

Methodology

Twenty massive weight loss patients with Pittsburgh Rating Scale score 2-3 underwent mastopexy with autologous augmentation through perforator flaps encompassing lateral chest wall skin. Outcome measures were breast volume, and the presence of fat necrosis on mammography, and direct breast anthropometry.

Conclusion

All patients showed a consistent increase in volume postoperatively and no fat necrosis in postoperative mammography, reflecting flap reliability over one year of follow-up. All postoperative anthropometric measurements showed improvement in the breast deformities addressed.

Level of Evidence IV

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.
ESR Essentials: imaging of suspected child abuse—practice recommendations by the European Society of Paediatric Radiology
Authors: Colleran Gabrielle C. , Fossmark Maria , Rosendahl Karen , Argyropoulou Maria , Mankad Kshitij , Offiah Amaka C.
Published: September 2024

The goal of this paper is to provide a useful desktop reference for the imaging of suspected child abuse with clear, age-specific pathways for appropriate evidence-based imaging and follow-up.

We aim to provide a road map for the imaging evaluation and follow-up of this important and vulnerable cohort of patients presenting with signs and symptoms concerning for inflicted injury. As the imaging recommendations differ for children of different ages, we provide a flowchart of the appropriate imaging pathway for infants, toddlers, and older children, which allows ease of selection of which children should undergo skeletal survey, non-contrast computed tomography (CT) brain with 3-dimensional (D) reformats, and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain and whole spine. For ease of review, we include a table of the common intracranial and spinal patterns of injury in abusive head trauma. We summarise search patterns, areas of review, and key findings to include in the report.

To exclude skeletal injury, infants and children under 2 years of age should undergo a full skeletal survey in accordance with national guidelines, with a limited follow-up skeletal survey performed 11–14 days later. For children over 2 years of age, the need for skeletal imaging should be decided on a case-by-case basis.

All infants should undergo a non-contrast-enhanced CT brain with 3-D reformats. If this is normal with no abnormal neurology, then no further neuroimaging is required. If this is abnormal, then they should proceed to MRI brain and whole spine within 2–5 days. Children older than 1 year of age who have abnormal neurology and/or findings on skeletal survey that are suggestive of inflicted injury should undergo non-contrast CT brain with 3-D reformats and, depending on the findings, may also require MRI of the brain and whole spine.

We hope that this will be a helpful contribution to the radiology literature, particularly for the general radiologist with low volumes of paediatrics in their practice, supporting them with managing these important cases when they arise in daily practice.

Key Points

The choice of initial imaging (skeletal survey and/or brain CT) depends on the age of the child in whom abuse is suspected.

A follow-up skeletal survey is mandatory 11–14 days after the initial survey.

If an MRI of the brain is performed, then an MRI of the whole spine should be performed concurrently.
Spatial structuring of coral traits along a subtropical-temperate transition zone persists despite localised signs of tropicalisation
Authors: Sahin Defne , E. Bosch Nestor , Cooper Chenae , Filbee-Dexter Karen , Radford Ben , Schoepf Verena , Thomson Damian P. , Wernberg Thomas
Published: September 2024

Climate-driven species range expansions are underway with more tropically affiliated species, including Scleractinian corals, becoming increasingly abundant at higher latitudes. However, uncertainty remains on how these range shifts will affect reef-scale ecosystem processes, which will ultimately depend on the traits of the taxa that dominate these assemblages. Here, we quantified spatiotemporal patterns in the taxonomic and trait structure of coral assemblages along the subtropical-temperate coast of Western Australia (27°–34°S). Coral abundance was generally low and coral cover < 5% across our study sites. Coral assemblages shared similarities in morphological trait structures across the latitudinal gradient, mostly characterised by taxa with simple morphologies; yet subtle differences were also observed across latitudes, with high-latitude corals characterised by slower growth rates and reduced maximum colony sizes. We found a 3.4-fold increase (from 1 to 3.4 individuals m−2) in coral abundance at one heavily disturbed location, where canopy-forming seaweeds were replaced by turfing algae, a pattern that was partly driven by an increase in the relative contribution of warm affinity taxa, such as Acropora spp. We predicted these changes would be reflected in different components of functional diversity; yet, despite a localised signal of tropicalisation, we only observed subtle changes in the functional identity, richness, evenness, and divergence. The spatially invariant trait structure of coral assemblages suggests that the nature of ecosystem functions will likely remain unchanged during early stages of tropicalisation, and hence their contribution to temperate reef-scale ecological processes will depend on dominance over other benthic foundational species.
Utility guideline and considerations for the novel Hugo™ RAS (robotic-assisted surgery) system in colorectal surgery: surgical outcomes and initial experience in a tertiary center
Authors: Arroyo Antonio , Sánchez-Romero Ana , Soler-Silva Álvaro , Quinto Saray , López-Rodríguez-Arias Francisco , Alcaide María-José , Serrano-Navidad Mónica , Miranda Elena , Muñoz José-Luis , Sánchez-Guillén Luis
Published: September 2024

Purpose

A novel robotic platform—Hugo™ RAS (robotic-assisted surgery) system—has been introduced with several innovations that may prove advantageous for surgeons, such as an open console and four interchangeable modular arms. Our study aims to evaluate this platform’s safety, efficacy, and potential impact on the surgical treatment of colorectal pathology.

Methods

Patients underwent robotic-assisted colorectal procedures with the Hugo™ RAS system at the General University Hospital of Elche from October 2023 to July 2024. Patient characteristics, intraoperative and postoperative variables, and robotic technical issues were recorded.

Results

Forty consecutive patients were included (14 right, 13 left, and 8 rectum neoplasms; 4 left diverticulitis; and 1 ileocecal Crohn’s disease). The patients’ characteristics were as follows: median age, 69.5 years; 24 males and 16 females; 45% ASA III–IV; and Charlson Comorbidity Index > 5:42.5%.

We recorded four medical (2 anemia, 1 phlebitis, and 1 admission to the intensive care unit) and three surgical (1 hematoma of the incision, 1 intestinal occlusion, and 1 dehiscence of the anastomosis) postoperative complications. We had no conversions neither open nor laparoscopic surgery. The average hospital stay was 3 days, with no mortality or readmission.

Conclusions

The Hugo™ RAS system is safe and feasible for colorectal procedures. The modularity of the arms provides the versatility of configurations adjusted depending on the patient’s body features and the surgeon’s preferences and greater adaptability to operating rooms. The open console is highly comfortable and ergonomic for the surgeon, allowing communication with the operating room environment.

Trial registration

NCT06512480
Association of in vivo retention of [18f] flortaucipir pet with tau neuropathology in corresponding brain regions
Authors: Freiburghaus Tove , Pawlik Daria , Oliveira Hauer Kevin , Ossenkoppele Rik , Strandberg Olof , Leuzy Antoine , Rittmo Jonathan , Tremblay Cécilia , Serrano Geidy E. , Pontecorvo Michael J. , Beach Thomas G. , Smith Ruben , Hansson Oskar
Published: September 2024

[18F]Flortaucipir is an FDA-approved tau-PET tracer that is increasingly utilized in clinical settings for the diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease. Still, a large-scale comparison of the in vivo PET uptake to quantitative post-mortem tau pathology and to other co-pathologies is lacking. Here, we examined the correlation between in vivo [18F]flortaucipir PET uptake and quantitative post-mortem tau pathology in corresponding brain regions from the AVID A16 end-of-life study (n = 63). All participants underwent [18F]flortaucipir PET scans prior to death, followed by a detailed post-mortem neuropathological examination using AT8 (tau) immunohistochemistry. Correlations between [18F]flortaucipir standardized uptake value ratios (SUVRs) and AT8 immunohistochemistry were assessed across 18 regions-of-interest (ROIs). To assess [18F]flortaucipir specificity and level of detection for tau pathology, correlations between [18F]flortaucipir SUVR and neuritic plaque score and TDP-43 stage were also computed and retention was further assessed in individuals with possible primary age-related tauopathy (PART), defined as Thal phase ≤ 2 and Braak stage I–IV. We found modest-to-strong correlations between in vivo [18F]flortaucipir SUVR and post-mortem tau pathology density in corresponding brain regions in all neocortical regions analyzed (rho-range = 0.61–0.79, p < 0.0001 for all). The detection threshold of [18F]flortaucipir PET was determined to be 0.85% of surface area affected by tau pathology in a temporal meta-ROI, and 0.15% in a larger cortical meta-ROI. No significant associations were found between [18F]flortaucipir SUVRs and post-mortem tau pathology in individuals with possible PART. Further, there was no correlation observed between [18F]flortaucipir and level of amyloid-β neuritic plaque load (rho-range =  – 0.16–0.12; p = 0.48–0.61) or TDP-43 stage (rho-range =  – 0.10 to  – 0.30; p = 0.18–0.65). In conclusion, our in vivo vs post-mortem study shows that the in vivo [18F]flortaucipir PET signal primarily reflects tau pathology, also at relatively low densities of tau proteinopathy, and does not bind substantially to tau neurites in neuritic plaques or in individuals with PART.
Anatomy-based fitting improves speech perception in noise for cochlear implant recipients with single-sided deafness
Authors: Kurz Anja , Herrmann David , Müller-Graff Franz-Tassilo , Voelker Johannes , Hackenberg Stephan , Rak Kristen
Published: September 2024

Objective

To evaluate objective and subjective hearing outcomes in experienced cochlear implant users with single sided deafness (SSD CI) who used fitting maps created via anatomy-based fitting (ABF) and clinically-based fitting (CBF).

Participants

Twelve SSD CI users with postlingual hearing loss.

Intervention

OTOPLAN (Version 3. (MED-EL) was used to determine intracochlear electrode contact positions using post-operative high-resolution flat panel volume computed tomography. From these positions, the corresponding center frequencies and bandwidths were derived for each channel. These were implemented in the clinical fitting software MAESTRO to yield an ABF map individualized to each user.

Main Outcome Measures

ABF and CBF maps were compared. Objective speech perception in quiet and in noise, binaural effects, and self-perceived sound quality were evaluated.

Results

Significantly higher speech perception in noise scores were observed with the ABF map compared to the CBF map (mean SRT50: -6.49 vs. -4.8 dB SNR for the S0NCI configuration and − 3.85 vs. -2.75 dB SNR for the S0N0 configuration). Summation and squelch effects were significantly increased with the ABF map (0.86 vs. 0.21 dB SNR for summation and 0.85 vs. -0.09 dB SNR for squelch). No improvement in speech perception in quiet or spatial release from masking were observed with the ABF map. A similar level of self-perceived sound quality was reported for each map. Upon the end of the study, all users opted to keep the ABF map. This preference was independent of the angular insertion depth of the electrode array.

Conclusions

Experienced SSD CI users preferred using the ABF map, which gave them significant improvements in binaural hearing and some aspects of speech perception.
Longitudinal associations between depressive symptoms and cell deformability: do glucocorticoids play a role?
Authors: Eder Julian , Kräter Martin , Kirschbaum Clemens , Gao Wei , Wekenborg Magdalena , Penz Marlene , Rothe Nicole , Guck Jochen , Wittwer Lucas Daniel , Walther Andreas
Published: September 2024

Cell deformability of all major blood cell types is increased in depressive disorders (DD). Furthermore, impaired glucocorticoid secretion is associated with DD, as well as depressive symptoms in general and known to alter cell mechanical properties. Nevertheless, there are no longitudinal studies examining accumulated glucocorticoid output and depressive symptoms regarding cell deformability. The aim of the present study was to investigate, whether depressive symptoms predict cell deformability one year later and whether accumulated hair glucocorticoids mediate this relationship. In 136 individuals (nfemale = 100; Mage = 46.72, SD = 11.28; age range = 20–65), depressive symptoms (PHQ-9) and hair glucocorticoids (cortisol and cortisone) were measured at time point one (T1), while one year later (T2) both depressive symptoms and hair glucocorticoids were reassessed. Additionally, cell deformability of peripheral blood cells was assessed at T2. Depression severity at T1 predicted higher cell deformability in monocytes and lymphocytes at T2. Accumulated hair cortisol and cortisone concentrations from T1 and T2 were not associated with higher cell deformability and further did not mediate the relationship between depressive symptoms and cell deformability. Elevated depressive symptomatology in a population based sample is longitudinally associated with higher immune cell deformability, while long-term integrated glucocorticoid levels seem not to be implicated in the underlying mechanism.