bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cloning and functional characterization of a tau class glutathione transferase associated with haloxyfop‐P‐methyl resistance in Digitaria sanguinalis
Authors: Liu Xiangying , Hou Zhenlin , Zhang Yuying , Merchant Austin , Zhong Mei‐e , Ma Guolan , Zeng Qing , Wu Lamei , Zhou Xuguo , Luo Kun , Ding Chunxia
Published: May 2023

Background

Haloxyfop‐P‐methyl, an acetyl‐CoA carboxylase (ACCase)‐inhibiting herbicide, has been extensively used to control grass weeds. Widespread use of haloxyfop‐P‐methyl in cotton fields in China has led to the development of glutathione transferase (GST)‐mediated resistance in Digitaria sanguinalis. An RNA‐seq analysis identified DsGSTU1, a tau class glutathione transferase from the D. sanguinalis transcriptome as a potential candidate. Here, we cloned DsGSTU1 from D. sanguinalis young leaf tissues and subsequently characterized DsGSTU1 by a combination of sequence analysis, as well as functional heterologous expression in rice.

RESULTS

The full‐length coding DNA sequence (CDS) of DsGSTU1 is 717 bp in length. Higher DsGSTU1 expression was observed in haloxyfop‐P‐methyl‐resistant (HR) D. sanguinalis than in haloxyfop‐P‐methyl‐susceptible (HS) plants. Overexpression of the DsGSTU1 gene was confirmed by transformation into the wild‐type (WT) Nipponbare rice with pBWA(V)HS, a recombinant expression vector. GST activity in transgenic rice seedlings was 1.18–1.40‐fold higher than the WT rice seedlings before and after haloxyfop‐P‐methyl treatment, respectively. Additionally, transgenic rice seedlings overexpressing DsGSTU1 were less sensitive to haloxyfop‐P‐methyl.

CONCLUSION

Our combined findings suggest that DsGSTU1 is involved in metabolic resistance to haloxyfop‐P‐methyl in D. sanguinalis. A better understanding of the major genes contributing to herbicide‐resistant D. sanguinalis facilitates the development of resistance management strategies for this global invasive grass weed. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Joint optimization of bi‐level imperfect maintenance and spare parts inventory considering order quantity
Authors: He Yong , Wang Hong , Zhao Xiujie
Published: May 2023

The joint optimization of various maintenance actions and the supply of spare parts has received extensive attention in recent years owing to its advantage in reducing the overall operational costs of industrial systems. In this study, a joint optimization model is proposed considering bi‐level imperfect preventive maintenance and spare part ordering. A virtual age reduction model that considers bi‐level imperfect preventive maintenance (PM) is  established. Upon each system shutdown, the PM level is determined based on the cost‐effectiveness ratio. Furthermore, an improved (s, S) inventory policy is proposed utilizing the information of the remaining number of PM and accumulated consumption of spare parts. Finally, the joint optimization models consisting of different PM policies and spare parts inventory policies are solved. Case studies show that compared with the traditional (s, S) inventory policy, the proposed joint optimization model can coordinate the ordering quantity of spare parts with the PM policy, and reduce the expected maintenance cost. A sensitivity analysis of the cost parameters is performed to explore their impact on the maintenance economy.
Toward sustainable development: Does digitalization narrow the gender gap in the labor market?
Authors: Yin Zi Hui , Zhang Ting Hui , Choi Chang Hwan
Published: May 2023

The direct and moderating impact of digitalization on the gender gap in the labor force participation rate is explored in this study. By analyzing the panel data of the G20 countries for the period of 2006–2021, we find that (1) the rising level of digitalization tends to narrow the gender gap in the labor force participation rate, with a greater gender gap‐narrowing effect in high‐income countries than in upper‐middle and lower‐middle income countries. (2) The interaction between digitalization and globalization has a small impact on the gender gap in the labor force participation rate in the full sample of the G20 countries, but the results are significantly different in countries divided by income level: the interaction is more likely to narrow the gender gap in the high‐income countries but widen the gender gap in upper‐middle and lower‐middle income countries. The gender gap‐widening effect is greater in upper‐middle income than in lower‐middle income countries. (3) Digitalization is more likely to increase the female employment rate and reduce the female unemployment rate, while it has the opposite effect on males; the female employment improvement effect is observed in the services sector.
Characterization of multidrug and heavy metal resistance of carbapenemases producing Klebsiella pneumoniae from poultry samples in Bangladesh
Authors: Saha Otun , Basri Rabeya , Hossain Md. Anwar , Sultana Munawar
Published: May 2023

Background

Resistance to multiple drugs in Klebsiella pneumoniae (KPN) is an important issue in human and animal medicine. KPN phenotypic and genotypic aspects in poultry samples have not been comprehensively explored in Bangladesh.

Methods

This research focused on the prevalence of antibiotic resistance and the characterization of KPN in Bangladeshi poultry isolates using both phenotypic and genotypic approaches.

Results

A total of 32 poultry samples were randomly obtained from a commercial poultry farm in Narsingdi, Bangladesh, and 43.90% (18/41) of the isolates were confirmed to be KPN, whereas all isolates were biofilm producers. The antibiotic sensitivity test revealed the most remarkable (100%) antibiotic resistance level against Ampicillin, Doxycycline and Tetracycline while remaining susceptible to Doripenem, Meropenem, Cefoxitin and Polymyxin B. Resistance to Nalidixic acid, Nitrofurantoin, Trimethoprim, Levofloxacin, Ciprofloxacin, Cefuroxime and Chloramphenicol ranges from 18% to 70%. Minimum inhibitory concentrations for carbapenem‐resistant KPN ranged from 128 to 512 mg/mL for Meropenem, Imipenem, Gentamycin and Ciprofloxacin, respectively. [Correction added on 15 June 2023, after first online publication: 512 g/mL was corrected to 512 mg/mL in the preceding sentence]. Carbapenemase‐producing KPN isolates harboured a single or multiple β‐lactamase genes, blaSIM‐1, blaIMP‐4 and blaOXA‐48 as well as one ESBL gene (blaTEM) and plasmid‐mediated quinolone resistance gene (qnrB). Furthermore, Cr and Co outperformed Cu and Zn in antibacterial effectiveness.

Conclusions

The results of this investigation showed that the high prevalence of multidrug‐resistant pathogenic KPN in our chosen geographic location had displayed sensitivity to FOX/PB/Cr/Co, which might be regarded as an alternate treatment to reduce pressure of use on carbapenems.
Conclusion: Why Did the UK, US and Australia Have Different E-cigarette Policies?
Authors: Berridge Virginia , Fairchild Amy L. , Morphett Kylie , Gartner Coral , Hall Wayne , Bayer Ronald
Published: May 2023

We sought to understand why three countries with similar political systems and similar anti-smoking policy histories developed such very different policies towards e-cigarettes. All appealed to a value-free concept of “evidence” in making use of precautionary and harm reduction principles to deal with the remaining uncertainties in the evidence. Yet policy processes were mediated by important contextual factors. These included: the nature and role of the state in each country; the political parties in power at the time e-cigarettes were first introduced; the role played by existing regulatory institutions in dealing with e-cigarettes; longer-term changes in ways of thinking about tobacco smoking within public health; the specific pre-history of tobacco control policy, nicotine and smoking cessation services; the organisation of professional and activist networks that were in favour of and against e-cigarettes; the uses of fear to discourage e-cigarette use; and the influence (or lack thereof) of harm reduction ideas from drug or AIDS policy on tobacco control policy. The object of policy also differed between countries from protecting the smoker to protecting children and young people.
Friendly Friction
Authors: Kvalnes Øyvind
Published: May 2023

This chapter introduces friendly friction as the first of five qualities that can be found in well-functioning communication climates. To establish friendly friction in an organisation, it is necessary to avoid the poles of having unfriendly friction and friendliness without friction. Social contagion poses an obstacle to creating a productive communication climate in that unfriendly friction encountered on social media or within an organisation can spread. Experiences of friendliness without friction can also create more of the same. However, social contagion can also help to establish and maintain friendly friction as a quality in the workplace through exposure to practices where people provide that kind of input to each other.
Zusammenfassung und Abstract
Authors: Becker-Hingst Nadine
Published: May 2023

Depressionen gehören zu den häufigsten psychischen Erkrankungen im höheren Erwachsenenalter. Bei manchen Patient:innen entwickelt sich die Depression bereits in jüngeren Jahren und setzt sich im Alter fort. Bei vielen anderen Betroffenen tritt die depressive Störung allerdings erstmals im höheren Alter auf. In beiden Fällen geht die Erkrankung mit einem massiven Verlust an Lebensqualität, starken funktionellen Beeinträchtigungen und einem hohen Suizidrisiko einher.
Diskussion und Ausblick
Authors: Becker-Hingst Nadine
Published: May 2023

Im Folgenden werden die Ergebnisse zum Zusammenhang zwischen Emotionsregulation und Depression im Alter diskutiert und zusammengefasst. Es werden Stärken und Limitationen dieser Untersuchung aufgeführt und aus den Limitationen zentrale Implikationen für zukünftige Forschungsvorhaben abgeleitet. Abschließend werden theoretische und klinisch-praktische Schlussfolgerungen aus den Ergebnissen gezogen.
Tumor cell-intrinsic and tumor microenvironmental conditions co-determine signaling by the glycoimmune checkpoint receptor Siglec-7
Authors: van Houtum Eline J. H. , Kers-Rebel Esther D. , Looman Maaike W. , Hooijberg Erik , Büll Christian , Granado Daniel , Cornelissen Lenneke A. M. , Adema Gosse J.
Published: May 2023

Tumors create an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment by altering protein expression, but also by changing their glycosylation status, like altered expression of sialoglycans. Sialoglycans are capped with sialic acid sugar residues and are recognized by Siglec immune receptors. Siglec-7 is an inhibitory immune receptor similar to PD-1, and is emerging as glycoimmune checkpoint exploited by cancer cells to evade the immune system. However, the exact cellular and molecular conditions required for Siglec-7-mediated immune cell inhibition remain largely unknown. Here, we report on the development of a chimeric Siglec-7 cell system that enables dissection of Siglec-7 signaling, rather than Siglec-7 binding. Antibody-induced clustering, sialic acid-containing polymers, and highly sialylated erythrocytes effectively induced Siglec-7 signaling, thereby validating functionality of this reporter system. Moreover, the system reveals tumor cell-dependent Siglec-7 signaling. Tumor-associated conditions important for Siglec-7 signaling were defined, such as Siglec-7 ligand expression levels, presence of the known Siglec-7 ligand CD43, and sialic acid availability for sialylation of glycans. Importantly, therapeutic targeting of the Siglec-7/sialic acid axis using a sialyltransferase inhibitor resulted in strong reduction of Siglec-7 signaling. In conclusion, using a newly established cellular tool, we defined a set of tumor-associated conditions that influence Siglec-7 signaling. Moreover, the system allows to assess the efficacy of novel cancer drugs interfering with the Siglec-7/sialic acid axis as immunotherapy to treat cancer.
Epidemiologie seelischen Wohlbefindens von Kindern und Jugendlichen in Deutschland. Ergebnisse aus 3 Studien vor und während der COVID-19-Pandemie
Authors: Reiß Franziska , Kaman Anne , Napp Ann-Kathrin , Devine Janine , Li Lydia Y. , Strelow Lisa , Erhart Michael , Hölling Heike , Schlack Robert , Ravens-Sieberer Ulrike
Published: May 2023

Hintergrund

Ein kontinuierliches bundesweites Gesundheitsmonitoring ist wichtig, um das Wohlbefinden von Kindern und Jugendlichen im Blick zu behalten und Entwicklungsverläufe abzubilden. Anhand der Ergebnisse von 3 ausgewählten epidemiologischen Studien werden Entwicklungen zum kindlichen Wohlbefinden der letzten 20 Jahre vorgestellt.

Methodik

Datengrundlage bilden (1.) die bevölkerungsbezogene BEfragung zum seeLischen WohLbefinden und VerhAlten (BELLA-Studie, 2003–2017, N = 1500–3000), die ein Modul der KiGGS-Studie ist, (2.) die COrona und PSYche Studie (COPSY, 2020–2022, N = 1600–1700), die auf der BELLA-Studie aufbaut, und (3.) die internationale Health-Behaviour in School-aged Children Studie (HBSC, 2002–2018, N = 4300–7300). Das Wohlbefinden wurde bei 7‑ bis 17-Jährigen mittels der Indikatoren gesundheitsbezogene Lebensqualität (KIDSCREEN-10), Lebenszufriedenheit (Cantril Ladder) und psychische Auffälligkeiten (Strenghts and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ), Screen for Child Anxiety Related Emotional Disorders (SCARED) und Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale for Children (CES-DC)) erfasst.

Ergebnisse

Insgesamt zeigen Kinder und Jugendliche präpandemisch (2002–2018) eine konstant hohe gesundheitsbezogene Lebensqualität und eine hohe allgemeine Lebenszufriedenheit, die sich mit Beginn der COVID-19-Pandemie 2020 zunächst verschlechterte. 2 Jahre später zeigen sich Verbesserungen, die jedoch noch nicht das Ausgangsniveau erreichen. Psychische Auffälligkeiten, ängstliche und depressive Symptome nahmen mit Pandemiebeginn um bis zu 12 Prozentpunkte zu und zeigen auch 2 Jahre nach Pandemiebeginn noch höhere Werte als präpandemische Studien.

Diskussion

Die Epidemiologie kindlichen Wohlbefindens bietet eine notwendige Datengrundlage, um den Unterstützungsbedarf von Kindern und Jugendlichen zu erfassen und auf dieser Basis Maßnahmen der Gesundheitsförderung, Prävention und Intervention zu entwickeln.
In vivo evaluation of a novel 18F-labeled PET radioligand for translocator protein 18 kDa (TSPO) in monkey brain
Authors: Yan Xuefeng , Siméon Fabrice G. , Liow Jeih-San , Morse Cheryl L. , Montero Santamaria Jose A. , Jenkins Madeline , Manly Lester S. , Van Buskirk Maia , Zoghbi Sami S. , Pike Victor W. , Innis Robert B. , Zanotti-Fregonara Paolo
Published: May 2023

Purpose

[18F]SF51 was previously found to have high binding affinity and selectivity for 18 kDa translocator protein (TSPO) in mouse brain. This study sought to assess the ability of [18F]SF51 to quantify TSPO in rhesus monkey brain.

Methods

Positron emission tomography (PET) imaging was performed in monkey brain (n = 3) at baseline and after pre-blockade with the TSPO ligands PK11195 and PBR28. TSPO binding was calculated as total distribution volume corrected for free parent fraction in plasma (VT/fP) using a two-tissue compartment model. Receptor occupancy and nondisplaceable uptake were determined via Lassen plot. Binding potential (BPND) was calculated as the ratio of specific binding to nondisplaceable uptake. Time stability of VT was used as an indirect probe to detect radiometabolite accumulation in the brain. In vivo and ex vivo experiments were performed in mice to determine the distribution of the radioligand.

Results

After [18F]SF51 injection, the concentration of brain radioactivity peaked at 2.0 standardized uptake value (SUV) at ~ 10 min and declined to 30% of the peak at 180 min. VT/fP at baseline was generally high (203 ± 15 mL· cm−3) and decreased by ~ 90% after blockade with PK11195. BPND of the whole brain was 7.6 ± 4.3. VT values reached levels similar to terminal 180-min values by 100 min and remained relatively stable thereafter with excellent identifiability (standard errors < 5%), suggesting that no significant radiometabolites accumulated in the brain. Ex vivo experiments in mouse brain showed that 96% of radioactivity was parent. No significant uptake was observed in the skull, suggesting a lack of defluorination in vivo.

Conclusion

The results demonstrate that [18F]SF51 is an excellent radioligand that can quantify TSPO with a good ratio of specific to nondisplaceable uptake and has minimal radiometabolite accumulation in brain. Collectively, the results suggest that [18F]SF51 warrants further evaluation in humans.
Rodrigues’ Descendants of a Polynomial and Boutroux Curves
Authors: Bøgvad Rikard , Hägg Christian , Shapiro Boris
Published: May 2023

Motivated by the classical Rodrigues’ formula, we study below the root asymptotic of the polynomial sequence $$\begin{aligned} {\mathcal {R}}_{[\alpha n],n,P}(z)=\frac{\mathop {}\!\textrm{d}^{[\alpha n]}P^n(z)}{\mathop {}\!\textrm{d}z^{[\alpha n]}}, n= 0,1,\dots \end{aligned}$$

R

[
α
n
]
,
n
,
P

(
z
)

=

d

[
α
n
]

P
n

(
z
)

d

z

[
α
n
]

,
n
=
0
,
1
,
⋯

where P(z) is a fixed univariate polynomial, $$\alpha $$
α
is a fixed positive number smaller than $$\deg P$$

deg
P

, and $$[\alpha n]$$

[
α
n
]

stands for the integer part of $$\alpha n$$

α
n

. Our description of this asymptotic is expressed in terms of an explicit harmonic function uniquely determined by the plane rational curve emerging from the application of the saddle point method to the integral representation of the latter polynomials using Cauchy’s formula for higher derivatives. As a consequence of our method, we conclude that this curve is birationally equivalent to the zero locus of the bivariate algebraic equation satisfied by the Cauchy transform of the asymptotic root-counting measure for the latter polynomial sequence. We show that this harmonic function is also associated with an abelian differential having only purely imaginary periods and the latter plane curve belongs to the class of Boutroux curves initially introduced in Bertola (Anal Math Phys 1: 167–211, 2011), Bertola and Mo (Adv Math 220(1): 154–218, 2009). As an additional relevant piece of information, we derive a linear ordinary differential equation satisfied by $$\{{\mathcal {R}}_{[\alpha n],n,P}(z)\}$$

{

R

[
α
n
]
,
n
,
P

(
z
)

}

as well as higher derivatives of powers of more general functions.
Real-time MRI: a new tool of radiologic imaging in small children
Authors: Hirsch Franz Wolfgang , Frahm Jens , Sorge Ina , Klee Dirk , Prenzel Freerk , Krause Matthias , Lacher Martin , Voit Dirk , Gräfe Daniel
Published: May 2023

Real-time MRI (rt-MRI) in children is a new imaging technique that combines the advantages of US — at frame rates of up to 50 images per second — with the quality and features of MRI. Although still subject of research, it has become a standard tool in the diagnostic portfolio of two pediatric radiology departments in Germany. Based on ultrashort acquisition times, any detrimental effects of macroscopic movements of the child and the physiological movements of the organs are negligible. Especially in pediatric brain imaging, rt-MRI has already proven its value. With suitable indications, rt-MRI can reduce anesthesia and sedation examinations in children below 6 years of age by 40% due to its very short examination time and its robustness to motion. There is a high level of acceptance among parents and referrers when diagnostic possibilities and limitations are communicated correctly.

Conclusion: Completely new diagnostic possibilities arise in the imaging of the moving lung, the beating heart, joint movements, and speaking and swallowing, as demonstrated in this video-backed review.

What is known:• MRI in moving children has been burdened with severe artifacts.• Gross motion usually has to be handled by sedation and periodic motion of the heart and lungs has to be compensated with time-consuming techniques until now.

What is new:• Real-time MRI allows image acquisition with up to 50 frames per second similar to ultrasound frame rate.• Real-time MRI proofs to be very promising for imaging children, reducing examination time and sedation rate drastically.
miRNAs contributing to the repair of tendon injury
Authors: Lyu Kexin , Liu Xinyue , Liu Tianzhu , Lu Jingwei , Jiang Li , Chen Yixuan , Long Longhai , Wang Xiaoqiang , Shi Houyin , Wang Fan , Li Sen
Published: May 2023

Tendon injury is one of the most common disorders of the musculoskeletal system, with a higher likelihood of occurrence in elderly individuals and athletes. In posthealing tendons, two undesirable consequences, tissue fibrosis and a reduction in mechanical properties, usually occur, resulting in an increased probability of rerupture or reinjury; thus, it is necessary to propose an appropriate treatment. Currently, most methods do not sufficiently modulate the tendon healing process and restore the function and structure of the injured tendon to those of a normal tendon, since there is still inadequate information about the effects of multiple cellular and other relevant signaling pathways on tendon healing and how the expression of their components is regulated. microRNAs are vital targets for promoting tendon repair and can modulate the expression of biological components in signaling pathways involved in various physiological and pathological responses. miRNAs are a type of noncoding ribonucleic acid essential for regulating processes such as cell proliferation, differentiation, migration and apoptosis; inflammatory responses; vascularization; fibrosis; and tissue repair. This article focuses on the biogenesis response of miRNAs while presenting their mechanisms in tendon healing with perspectives and suggestions.
Functional Prototype for the Validation of the Innovative Metal Additive Manufacturing SLEDM Process
Authors: Haas Franz , Tiefnig Raphael
Published: May 2023

Additive manufacturing has found its way into industrial series production. However, market growth has only been possible through the introduction of new AM-technologies and the continuous improvement of existing processes. This contribution covers the practical implementation of a prototype for research and validation of the unique SLEDM process patented by TU Graz. The demonstrator includes a feature for powder coating for the melting process as well as the concept of power input via an LED-based light source. The prototype enables a now simple and fast melting of different low-melting powder materials, such as tin, zinc, and aluminum, within an inert gas atmosphere. In addition, the experimental setup forms the basis for the development and adaptation of a suitable light source for the next generation SLEDM process. The goal is to test the additive manufacturing concept with the innovative LED light source and analyze the produced metal parts. The evaluation of the recorded measurement data and the analysis of the test results provide important knowledge about the potential of the SLEDM process for further research and industrial manufacturing. In the future, the individual control of the LED-cells in the matrix can be utilized for optimized temperature profiles in the melting zone and for the reduction of the energy demand of the machine. Overall SLEDM helps to fulfil the targets of sustainable production addressing both the material and energy aspect.
All-polyethylene versus metal-backed tibial components in total knee arthroplasty: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Elmhiregh Aissam , Abuodeh Yousef , Alzobi Osama , Zikria Bashir , Alkhayarin Mohd , Morrey Bernard F.
Published: May 2023

Objectives

The design of tibial trays for total knee arthroplasty (TKA) has been a topic of research for several decades. Although all-polyethylene trays were developed to address issues such as osteolysis and to enhance the longevity of the prosthesis, as well as knee range of motion, metal-backed designs have remained the most commonly used type of prosthesis. This meta-analysis aimed to compare the clinical, radiological, and survival outcomes of both designs.

Methods

Five databases were searched from inception until October 1, 2020, for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that compared the outcomes of all-polyethylene and metal-backed tibial components in TKA. The outcomes of interest included range of motion, knee society score, stairs climbing scores, radiostereographic analysis, survivorship and complication. This review was conducted in line with PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. Risk of bias was assessed using the Newcastle–Ottawa tool.

Results

A total of 14 RCTs with 1367 TKA were included with a mean age of – years and – years for all-polyethylene and metal-backed tibial components groups, respectively. All-polyethylene group demonstrated statistically significant differences in five-year survivorship (OR 0.27; 95% CI 0.10–0.75; p value 0.01) and stairs climbing score (OR − 2.07; 95% CI − 3.27–0.87; p value 0.0007) when compared to the metal-backed group. The metal-backed design was significantly more radiographically stable in anterior–posterior, varus–valgus, and internal–external rotations at the 2-year follow-up compared to all-polyethylene tibias (OR − 0.09; 95% CI − 0.16 to − 0.02; p value 0.02) as per the pooled radiostereographic analysis. However, ten-year survivorship (OR 0.92; 95% CI 0.53–1.60; p value 0.78), range of motion (OR − 0.57; 95% CI − 2.00–0.85, p value 0.43), knee society scores (OR 1.38; 95% CI − 0.47–3.23, p value 0.14), and complications (OR 0.83; 95% CI 0.5–1.39, p value 0.48) were comparable between both groups.

Conclusions

While this meta-analysis suggests that all-polyethylene tibial components in total knee arthroplasty may offer advantages over metal-backed components in terms of five-year survivorship, and stairs climbing score, this finding should be considered in the context of potential confounding factors. Nonetheless, based on the results, the all-polyethylene implant should be considered a viable choice for primary knee replacement.

Level of evidence

I.
A Large-Scale Application of the Stochastic Approach for Estimating the Shear Strength of Natural Rock Discontinuities
Authors: Jeffery M. , Huang J. , Fityus S. , Giacomini A. , Buzzi O.
Published: May 2023

Reliable shear strength determination of large in situ discontinuities is still a challenge faced by the rock mechanics field. This is principally due to the limited availability of surface roughness and morphology information of in situ discontinuities and the unresolved management of the ‘scale effect’ phenomenon. Recently, a stochastic approach for predicting the shear strength of large-scale discontinuities was established, encompassing random field theory, a semi-analytical shear strength model, and a stochastic analysis framework. A key aspect of the new approach is the application at field scale, thereby minimising or bypassing the scale effect. The approach has been validated at laboratory scale and an initial large-scale deterministic-based validation showed promising results. However, to date, no large-scale experimental-based validation has been undertaken. This paper presents the first rigorous application of the employed semi-analytical shear strength model and the stochastic approach on a 2 m-by-2 m discontinuity surface, with comparison of prediction to experimental shear strength data. The shear strength model was found to generally produce peak and residual predictions within a ± 10% relative error range, with good agreement between predicted and observed damage areas. It was observed that, applying the stochastic approach to seed traces with gradient statistics equivalent to that of the surface, produced predictions that closely resemble the experimental results. Whereas, predicting shear strength from different seed traces results in more variability of predictions, with many falling within ± 20% of the experimental data. The predictions of residual shear strength tended to be more accurate than peak shear strength.
Influence of the steel plate on the friction behavior of automotive wet disk clutches
Authors: Strobl P. , Schneider T. , Voelkel K. , Stahl K.
Published: May 2023

Friction behavior is the key parameter for the design of automotive wet disk clutches. On the one hand, the Coefficient of Friction (CoF) level should be high to transmit torque efficiently. On the other hand, the clutch requires a positive slope of the CoF over sliding speed for good controllability, high comfort, and a low tendency to shudder. Clutches used in automatic or dual-clutch transmissions mostly use organic friction lining. These friction systems tend to have low CoF at low sliding speeds due to their high requirements regarding shifting comfort. Nevertheless, they show high values of CoF at high sliding speeds.

This study investigates the influence of different steel plate finishes on friction behavior in different application-relevant operation modes such as brake shift, unsteady slip, and micro slip. Each of these operation modes requires an accurate CoF measurement at different sliding speed ranges. Therefore, we use different test rig setups. We characterize the steel plates by their areal surface topography measured with an optical system using focus variation. We discuss differences in the friction behavior of the corresponding tribological systems at different operating conditions.

Results show an influence of the steel plate surface finish on the CoF level. Therefore, the surface finish of the steel plate influences the functional behavior of wet disk clutches and engineers should consider the surface finish in the early design phase. We discuss the correlation between commonly used surface parameters and friction parameters.
Safety and efficacy of edaravone in patients with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Nourelden Anas Zakarya , Kamal Ibrahim , Hagrass Abdulrahman Ibrahim , Tawfik Abdelrahman G. , Elhady Mahmoud M. , Fathallah Ahmed Hashem , Eshag Mona Muhe Eldeen , Zaazouee Mohamed Sayed
Published: May 2023

Aim

The study aims to increase understanding of edaravone’s efficacy and safety as an amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) treatment and provide significant insights regarding this field’s future research.

Methods

We conducted a comprehensive search of the Embase, PubMed, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and Scopus databases for randomized controlled trials and observational studies up until September 2022. We evaluated the studies’ quality using the Cochrane risk of bias tool and the National Institutes of Health tool.

Results

We included 11 studies with 2845 ALS patients. We found that edaravone improved the survival rate at 18, 24, and 30 months (risk ratio (RR) = 1.03, 95% confidence interval (CI) [1.02 to 1.24], P = 0.02), (RR = 1.22, 95% CI [1.06 to 1.41], P = 0.007), and (RR = 1.17, 95% CI [1.01 to 1.34], P = 0.03), respectively. However, the administration of edaravone did not result in any significant difference in adverse effects or efficacy outcomes between the two groups, as indicated by a P value greater than 0.05.

Conclusion

Edaravone improves survival rates of ALS patients at 18, 24, and 30 months with no adverse effects. However, edaravone does not affect functional outcomes. In order to ensure the validity of our findings and assess the results in accordance with the disease stage, it is essential to carry out additional prospective, rigorous, and high-quality clinical trials. The current study offers preliminary indications regarding the effectiveness and safety of edaravone. However, further comprehensive research is required to establish the generalizability and sustainability of the findings.
Three-fold Fay–Herriot model for small area estimation and its diagnostics
Authors: Marcis Laura , Morales Domingo , Pagliarella Maria Chiara , Salvatore Renato
Published: May 2023

This paper introduces a three-fold Fay–Herriot model with random effects at three hierarchical levels. Small area best linear unbiased predictors of linear indicators are derived from the new model and the corresponding mean squared errors are approximated and estimated analytically and by parametric bootstrap. The problem of influence analysis and model diagnostics is addressed by introducing measures adapted to small area estimation. Simulation experiments empirically investigate the behavior of the predictors and mean squared error estimators. The new statistical methodology is applied to Spanish living conditions survey of 2004–2008. The target is the estimation of proportions of women and men under the poverty line by province and year.
RLSS: real-time, decentralized, cooperative, networkless multi-robot trajectory planning using linear spatial separations
Authors: Şenbaşlar Baskın , Hönig Wolfgang , Ayanian Nora
Published: May 2023

Trajectory planning for multiple robots in shared environments is a challenging problem especially when there is limited communication available or no central entity. In this article, we present Real-time planning using Linear Spatial Separations, or RLSS: a real-time decentralized trajectory planning algorithm for cooperative multi-robot teams in static environments. The algorithm requires relatively few robot capabilities, namely sensing the positions of robots and obstacles without higher-order derivatives and the ability of distinguishing robots from obstacles. There is no communication requirement and the robots’ dynamic limits are taken into account. RLSS generates and solves convex quadratic optimization problems that are kinematically feasible and guarantees collision avoidance if the resulting problems are feasible. We demonstrate the algorithm’s performance in real-time in simulations and on physical robots. We compare RLSS to two state-of-the-art planners and show empirically that RLSS does avoid deadlocks and collisions in forest-like and maze-like environments, significantly improving prior work, which result in collisions and deadlocks in such environments.
Nitrogen deposition further increases Ambrosia trifida root exudate invasiveness under global warming
Authors: Xu Ke , Liu Xinyue , Zhao Changxin , Pan Qingmin , Chen Xiaoxing , Jiang Ning , Du Cuiping , Xu Yufeng , Shao Meini , Qu Bo
Published: May 2023

Invasive plants can change the soil ecological environment in the invasion area to adapt to their growth and reproduction through root exudates. Root exudates are the most direct manifestation of plant responses to external environmental changes, but there is a lack of studies on root exudates of invasive plants in the context of inevitable global warming and nitrogen deposition. In this research, we used widely targeted metabolomics to investigate Ambrosia trifida root exudates during seedling and maturity under warming and nitrogen deposition to reveal the possible mechanisms of A. trifida adaptation to climate change. The results showed that the organic acids increased under warming condition but decreased after nitrogen addition in the seedling stage. Phenolic acids increased greatly after nitrogen addition in the mature stage. Most phenolic acids were annotated in the phenylpropane metabolic pathway and tyrosine metabolism. Therefore, nitrogen deposition may increase the adaptability of A. trifida through root exudates, making it more invasive under global warming. The results provide new ideas for preventing and controlling the invasion of A. trifida under climate change.
Barriers and facilitators for the implementation of the CombiConsultation by general practitioners, pharmacists and practice nurses: a qualitative interview study
Authors: Meijvis Valérie A. M. , Heringa Mette , Kwint Henk-Frans , de Wit Niek J. , Bouvy Marcel L.
Published: May 2023

Background

The CombiConsultation is a consultation with the pharmacist for patients with a chronic condition, aligned with the periodic consultation with the practice nurse or general practitioner. Implementation requires adjustments in the working methods of these healthcare providers and therefore behavioural changes.

Aim

The aim of this study was to identify the barriers and facilitators that determine the behavioural changes by pharmacists, general practitioners and practice nurses required for the implementation of the CombiConsultation.

Method

Ten community pharmacists, 5 practice nurses and 5 general practitioners were sampled from practices enrolled in the CombiConsultation study. Their views regarding the implementation of this clinical pharmacy service were explored using interviews based on the 14 domains of the Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF), which are linked to the Capability-Opportunity-Motivation-Behaviour-model. Barriers and facilitators in the domains were assessed by content analysis.

Results

Twelve barriers and 23 facilitators were found within 13 TDF domains with high agreement between the healthcare providers. Important facilitators for implementation were the pharmacists’ expertise in pharmacotherapy (capability), access to medical data and physical proximity between professional practices (opportunity). Barriers were pharmacists’ insufficient consultation- and clinical-reasoning skills (capability), insufficient staff (opportunity) and reimbursement and lack of coordination among all involved healthcare providers (motivation).

Conclusion

All healthcare providers are motivated to implement the CombiConsultation. An existing collaborative practice, with a clear and accepted professional role of the pharmacist is essential. Training of pharmacists in consultation and clinical-reasoning skills can be beneficial, as well as arrangements on the consultation logistics, and reimbursement.
Parameterised response zero intelligence traders
Authors: Cliff Dave
Published: May 2023

I introduce parameterised response zero intelligence (PRZI), a new form of zero intelligence (ZI) trader intended for use in simulation studies of the dynamics of continuous double auction markets. Like Gode and Sunder’s classic ZIC trader, PRZI generates quote prices from a random distribution over some specified domain of discretely valued allowable quote prices. Unlike ZIC, which uses a uniform distribution to generate prices, the probability distribution in a PRZI trader is parameterised in such a way that its probability mass function (PMF) is determined by a real-valued control variable s in the range $$[-1.0, +1.0]$$

[
-
1.0
,
+
1.0
]

that determines the strategy for that trader. When $$s=0$$

s
=
0

, a PRZI trader behaves identically to the ZIC strategy, with a uniform PMF; but when $$s \approx \pm 1$$

s
≈
±
1

the PRZI trader’s PMF becomes maximally skewed to one extreme or the other of the price range, thereby making it more or less “urgent” in the prices that it generates, biasing the quote price distribution towards or away from the trader’s limit price. To explore the co-evolutionary dynamics of populations of PRZI traders that dynamically adapt their strategies, I show initial results from long-term market experiments in which each trader uses a simple stochastic hill-climber algorithm to repeatedly evaluate alternative s-values and choose the most profitable at any given time. In these experiments the profitability of any particular s-value may be non-stationary because the profitability of one trader’s strategy at any one time can depend on the mix of strategies being played by the other traders at that time, which are each themselves continuously adapting. Results from these market experiments demonstrate that the population of traders’ strategies can exhibit rich dynamics, with periods of stability lasting over hundreds of thousands of trader interactions interspersed by occasional periods of change. Python source code for PRZI traders, and for the stochastic hill-climber, have been made publicly available on GitHub.
A Statistical Mechanics Approach to Describe Cell Reorientation Under Stretch
Authors: Loy N. , Preziosi L.
Published: May 2023

Experiments show that when a monolayer of cells cultured on an elastic substratum is subject to a cyclic stretch, cells tend to reorient either perpendicularly or at an oblique angle with respect to the main stretching direction. Due to stochastic effects, however, the distribution of angles achieved by the cells is broader and, experimentally, histograms over the interval$$[0^\circ , 90^\circ ]$$[0∘,90∘]are usually reported. Here we will determine the evolution and the stationary state of probability density functions describing the statistical distribution of the orientations of the cells using Fokker–Planck equations derived from microscopic rules for describing the reorientation process of the cell. As a first attempt, we shall use a stochastic differential equation related to a very general elastic energy that the cell tries to minimize and, we will show that the results of the time integration and of the stationary state of the related forward Fokker–Planck equation compare very well with experimental results obtained by different researchers. Then, in order to model more accurately the microscopic process of cell reorientation and to shed light on the mechanisms performed by cells that are subject to cyclic stretch, we consider discrete in time random processes that allow to recover Fokker–Planck equations through classical tools of kinetic theory. In particular, we shall introduce a model of reorientation as a function of the rotation angle as a result of an optimal control problem. Also in this latter case the results match very well with experiments.
Reaction Mechanisms During Melting of H-DRI Focusing on Slag Formation and the Behavior of Vanadium
Authors: Vickerfält Amanda , Huss Joar , Martinsson Johan , Sichen Du
Published: May 2023

The reaction mechanisms during melting of hydrogen direct reduced iron pellets (H-DRI) with different degrees of reduction were studied experimentally at 1773 K to 1873 K at different times (60 to 600 seconds), focusing on the autogenous slag formation. It was found that an autogenous slag is formed inside the pellets prior to the melting of the metal phase. The formation of the autogenous slag started with the melting of FeO, initially located in the center of the iron grains. The liquid FeO flowed into the pore network of the pellet. While flowing, the liquid FeO dissolved parts of the residual oxides, forming an autogenous slag. The slag stayed in the pore network until the iron was molten. Upon melting of the iron, the slag coalesced into spherical droplets. The final state is reached upon the separation of the metal and slag phases by flotation, as a bulk slag was formed on the surface of the liquid iron. In addition, since the iron ore used in this study contains vanadium, the behavior of V was discussed separately based on the experimental observations to build a basis for future studies on V extraction.
Recent advances in transamidation of unactivated amides
Authors: Kumar Vishal , Dhawan Sanjeev , Bala Renu , Girase Pankaj S. , Singh Parvesh , Karpoormath Rajshekhar
Published: May 2023

In recent years, transamidation has been an essential topic in the formation of amide bonds over the conventional route due to chemoselectivity and greenside products. So many groups have disclosed new amide transformation techniques. Transamidation is typically classified into two categories based on amide activation: activated amide and unactivated amide. We conducted a review of the pertinent literature that discusses the cross amidation reactions of unactivated amides employing a variety of reagents, enabling contemporary research professionals to overcome synthetic barriers.

Graphical abstract
Biomarkers of exposure and potential harm in exclusive users of electronic cigarettes and current, former, and never smokers
Authors: Haswell Linsey E. , Gale Nathan , Brown Elaine , Azzopardi David , McEwan Michael , Thissen Jesse , Meichanetzidis Filimon , Hardie George
Published: May 2023

Electronic cigarette (EC) aerosol emissions generally contain fewer and lower concentrations of harmful and potentially harmful constituents, compared with cigarette smoke. Further studies are needed to establish whether decreased emissions translate to reduced health risks for EC users. In a cross-sectional study, biomarkers of exposure (BoE) to certain tobacco smoke toxicants and biomarkers of potential harm (BoPH), associated with biological processes linked to the potential development of smoking-related diseases and oxidative stress, were assessed in solus Vuse ECs users and current, former, and never smokers. In total, 213 participants were enrolled, and smoking status was confirmed by urinary cotinine, exhaled carbon monoxide, and N-(2-cyanoethyl)valine levels (EC users and former smokers only). During confinement participants used their usual product (EC or cigarette) as normal and BoE and BoPHs were assessed via blood, 24-h urine, and physiological assessment. Significantly lower levels of all urinary BoE; MHBMA, HMPMA, 3-HPMA, NNN, 3-OH-B[a]P, S-PMA, NNAL (all p < 0.0001), and TNeq (p = 0.0074) were observed in EC users when compared with smokers. Moreover, significantly lower levels were observed in EC users for 3 of the 7 BoPH measured, carboxyhaemoglobin (p < 0.0001), soluble intercellular adhesion molecule-1 (p = 0.0028), and 11-dehydrothromboxane B2 (p = 0.0012), when compared with smokers. As compared with smokers, solus Vuse EC users have significantly lower exposure to tobacco toxicants for the BoE, and 3 BoPH measured. These results add to the weight of evidence supporting EC as part of a tobacco harm reduction strategy.
Gut inflammation and tumorigenesis: every site has a different tale to tell
Authors: Vanoli Alessandro , Parente Paola , Fassan Matteo , Mastracci Luca , Grillo Federica
Published: May 2023

Gut inflammation has been correlated with cancerogenesis by disrupting gastrointestinal homeostasis. Numerous chronic inflammatory disorders of the tubular gastrointestinal tract (e.g., gastroesophageal reflux disease, Helicobacter pylori-induced and autoimmune chronic gastritis, celiac disease, and inflammatory bowel diseases) have been variably associated with an increased neoplastic risk. Gastrointestinal inflammation-induced neoplasms include epithelial tumors (esophageal squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma, gastric adenocarcinoma and neuroendocrine tumors, small bowel adenocarcinoma and neuroendocrine tumors, and colorectal cancer) and lymphomas (such as gastric marginal zone lymphomas and enteropathy-associated T cell lymphoma). In the last decades, numerous studies have investigated the pathogenetic mechanisms and the microenvironmental/microbiome changes that trigger genetic and/or epigenetic alterations eventually leading to tumorigenesis, often through a histologically recognizable inflammation-dysplasia-carcinoma cancerogenic sequence. In the present review, an overview of the current knowledge on the links between inflammatory diseases and neoplasms of the tubular GI tract, applying a site-by-site approach, is provided.
Tripartite motif–containing 9 promoted proliferation and migration of bladder cancer cells through CEACAM6-Smad2/3 axis
Authors: Zhang Zhao-Cun , Zhao Hai-Feng , Sun Zhuang , Li Yi , Zhong Ming-Lei , Wang Bao-Hai , Jiang Xian-Zhou
Published: May 2023

Studies have shown that tripartite motif–containing (TRIM) family proteins function as E3 ubiquitin ligases and play essential roles in cancer biology. In the present study, we validated a contribution of TRIM9 to bladder cancer progression. 296 patients derived from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database and 22 clinical specimens were included, in which accumulated TRIM9 correlated with the poor prognosis and higher relapse in bladder patients. In vitro, TRIM9 promoted bladder cancer cells Biu-87 and T24 cell proliferation and migration. Meanwhile, overexpression of TRIM9 reduced the chemosensitivity in Biu-87 and T24 to mitomycin C (MMC) and gemcitabine (GEM). As an underlying mechanism, we found that TRIM9 stimulated carcinoembryonic antigen 6 (CEACAM6) upregulation, which further facilitated Smad2/3-matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP2) signaling activation both in vitro and in vivo. Those results indicated that TRIM9 facilitated bladder cancer development and chemoresistance by CEACAM6-Smad2/3 axis. TRIM9 and its associated molecules could be a potential diagnostic indicator and therapeutic target in bladder cancer.

Graphic Abstract