bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An improved low‐carbon intelligent agriculture system with energy optimization principles using wireless IoT environment
Authors: Pydi Balamurali , Prabu A. V. , Mukherjee Amrit , Jain Deepak K. , Chand S. Ravi , Prashanth Noel Anurag
Published: March 2024

A low‐carbon agricultural plan and intelligent agriculture control system are designed and completed with a green economy to foster the significant expansion of green resources and environmental assets. This research employs a fixed‐effect panel model to examine the farming cumulative energy savings in 11 cities and regions along the Yamuna Tributary Commercial Region, focusing on both static and dynamic factors. The directional linear equation and the Malmquist–Luenberger (ML) indicator are the key analytical tools. Unlike conventional techniques, regression analysis using cross‐sectional data is the primary tributary. Research has found that a 5.9% decrease in the literacy rate of the working force had a large impact on farming energy efficiency and that for each 1% rise in crop losses, farm energy efficiency would decrease by 0.487%. In addition to mitigating the detrimental effects of industrial design and mechanization on agricultural output, this effort aids in the advancement of smart city design. This activity paves the way for cutting‐edge technology by encouraging people to move to cities, educating the workforce, and giving money to the agricultural sector. The ability of proposed model gives the smart agriculture system with intelligent control principles and energy optimization principles in the deployed wireless‐IoT platform. On this research problem, this paper contributes to new knowledge by approaching agricultural energy efficiency from a green economy perspective, conducting regression analyses of panel data on the most important influencing factors using the advanced statistical analysis tool Eviews, and then drawing the conclusion from the evaluation of metrics that affect farming energy efficiency in our nation. Enhancing productivity while also fostering long‐term growth in the agricultural ecosystem is crucial. It contributes for smart and green technologies adaptation in agriculture filed.
1H‐NMR‐based metabolomics reveals the preventive effect of Enteromorpha prolifera polysaccharides on diabetes in Zucker diabetic fatty rats
Authors: Chen Jie , Wang Shuting , Guo Fuchuan , Gong Yupeng , Chen Tianbao , Shaw Chris , Jiang Rencai , Huang Fang , Lin Dai
Published: March 2024

The primary objective of this investigation was to explore the beneficial impacts of Enteromorpha prolifera polysaccharide (EP) on dysglycemia in Zucker diabetic fatty (ZDF) rats, while also shedding light on its potential mechanism using 1H‐NMR‐based metabolomics. The results demonstrated a noteworthy reduction in fasting blood glucose (FBG, 46.3%), fasting insulin (50.17%), glycosylated hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c, 44.1%), and homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA‐IR, 59.75%) following EP administration, while the insulin sensitivity index (ISI, 19.6%) and homeostatic model assessment of β‐cell function (HOMA‐β, 2.5‐fold) were significantly increased. These findings indicate that EP enhances β‐cell function, increases insulin sensitivity, and improves insulin resistance caused by diabetes. Moreover, EP significantly reduced serum lipid levels, suggesting improvement of dyslipidemia. Through the analysis of serum metabolomics, 17 metabolites were found to be altered in diabetic rats, 14 of which were upregulated and 3 of which were downregulated. Notably, the administration of EP successfully reversed the abnormal levels of 9 out of the 17 metabolites. Pathway analysis further revealed that EP treatment partially restored metabolic dysfunction, with notable effects observed in valine, leucine, and isoleucine metabolism; aminoacyl‐transfer RNA (tRNA) biosynthesis; and ketone body metabolism. These findings collectively indicate the potential therapeutic efficacy of EP in preventing glycemic abnormalities and improving insulin resistance. Thus, EP holds promise as a valuable treatment option for individuals with diabetes.
Durchlässigkeitsversuche an teilgesättigtem, gefrorenem Sand und Kies
Authors: Vrettos Christos , Seibel Elisabeth , Günther Ronald
Published: March 2024

Bei Anwendung des Gefrierverfahrens wird der gefrorene, wassergesättigte Boden als praktisch undurchlässig angenommen. Im Falle einer initialen Teilsättigung ist dies jedoch nicht sinnvoll. Im Rahmen einer Pilotstudie wurden diesbezüglich im Labor Durchlässigkeitsversuche an rolligen, locker gelagerten, teilgesättigten, gefrorenen Bodenproben durchgeführt. Als Durchflussmedium wurde ein Mineralöl verwendet. Da hierzu keine standardisierte Apparatur vorhanden ist, mussten geeignete Versuchstechniken und Auswertungsprozeduren neu konzipiert werden. Die Durchlässigkeit des ungefrorenen vollgesättigten Ausgangsbodens wurde als Referenzwert ebenfalls bestimmt. Es zeigte sich, dass die untersuchten teilgesättigten Böden wegen der lockeren Lagerung und des niedrigen Sättigungsgrades eine nennenswerte Durchlässigkeit aufweisen, die der Größenordnung nach den Werten der zugehörigen wassergesättigten ungefrorenen Böden entspricht.
Manganese‐Mediated Synthesis of NHC‐Phosphine Ligand Precursors
Authors: Willot Jérémy , Fatima Sana , Duhayon Carine , Lugan Noël , Canac Yves , Valyaev Dmitry A.
Published: March 2024

Alkylation of N‐substituted imidazoles ImR’ (R’=2,4,6‐trimethylphenyl, 2,6‐diisopropylphenyl, 1‐adamantyl) with Mn(I) methylenephosphonium complexes [Cp(CO)2Mn(η2‐P,C‐R2P=C(H)Ph)](BF4) (PR2=PPh2, PCy2, trans‐PC(H)PhCH2CH2C (H)Ph) followed by photochemical demetallation afforded a series of bidentate NHC‐phosphine ligand precursors [R2PC(H)PhImR’](BF4) in moderate to good yield. The same strategy was successfully applied to N‐functionalized imidazoles ImL (L=2‐pyridyl, CH2SMe, CH2ImMe) to afford selectively NHC core pincer pre‐ligands featuring phosphine/thioether, phosphine/NHC and phosphine/pyridine side arms. For PCy2 derivatives, free NHCs in both bidentate and pincer series generated by deprotonation of the corresponding cationic precursors were shown to be persistent at room temperature.
Research on an optimal operation model for cascade pumping stations based on simulations
Authors: Zheng Xinrong , Gao Zhanyi , Yang Peiling , Chen Mengting
Published: March 2024

Cascade pumping stations (CPS) consume a large amount of energy every year in lifting districts. To obtain a reasonable and feasible operation scheme for CPS, this paper proposes an optimal operation model for CPS based on simulations. A one‐dimensional unsteady flow model of open canals was coupled with the optimal operation model of CPS, and an energy‐dominated optimization was proposed with the water level of the inlet pool as the coordinated variable. The optimization model was solved by using the catch‐up method and the nondominated sorted genetic algorithm II (NSGA‐II). The optimal operation method was validated and implemented in the first‐stage and second‐stage pumping stations of the Zuncun Irrigation Project by lifting water from the Yellow River in Shanxi province. The results showed that the proposed optimization model can reduce the energy consumption of the CPS by 4% compared with the actual operation. In addition, the optimal operation model of the CPS coupled with simulation can realize the dynamic balance of flow by stabilizing the inlet pool level to operate within a safe range. The energy consumption of the CPS can be reduced by keeping the water level of the intake pool as high a level as possible.
On the physical layer security performance of full‐duplex cooperative NOMA system with multiple eavesdroppers, imperfect SIC and hardware imperfections
Authors: Nimi T. , Babu A. V.
Published: March 2024

In this letter, we propose a control jammer‐assisted framework for improving the physical layer security (PLS) of full‐duplex (FD) ‐ cooperative non‐orthogonal multiple access (FD‐CNOMA) network. We derive analytical expressions for the secrecy outage probabilities (SOPs) of the users for the jammer‐assisted and the no‐jammer scenarios, considering multiple non‐colluding eavesdroppers, residual hardware impairments and imperfect successive interference cancellation conditions. It is demonstrated that the proposed jammer‐assisted framework provides significant reduction of the SOPs experienced by the downlink users in FD‐CNOMA network.
Cardioprotective effects of p‐coumaric acid on tachycardia, inflammation, ion pump dysfunction, and electrolyte imbalance in isoproterenol‐induced experimental myocardial infarction
Authors: Ponnian Stanely Mainzen Prince , Stanely Shervin Prince , Roy Abhro Jyoti
Published: March 2024

Cardiovascular diseases cause a large number of deaths throughout the world. No research was conducted earlier on p‐coumaric acid's effect on tachycardia, inflammation, ion pump dysfunction, and electrolyte imbalance. Hence, we appraised the above‐said parameters in isoproterenol‐induced myocardial infarcted rats. This investigation included 24 male albino Wistar rats in 4 groups. Normal control Group 1, p‐coumaric acid (8 mg/kg body weight) alone treated Group 2, Isoproterenol (100 mg/kg body weight) induced myocardial infarcted Group 3, p‐coumaric acid (8 mg/kg body weight) pretreated isoproterenol (100 mg/kg body weight) induced Group 4. After 1 day of the last dose of isoproterenol injection (day 10), rats were killed and blood and heart were taken and inflammatory markers, lipid peroxidation, nonenzymatic antioxidants, ion pumps, and electrolytes were measured. The heart rate, serum cardiac troponin‐T, serum/plasma inflammatory markers, and heart proinflammatory cytokines were raised in isoproterenol‐induced rats. Isoproterenol also enhanced plasma lipid peroxidation, lessened plasma nonenzymatic antioxidants, and altered heart ion pumps and serum and heart electrolytes. In this study, p‐coumaric acid pretreatment orally for 7 days to isoproterenol‐induced myocardial infarcted rats prevented changes in the above‐cited parameters. p‐Coumaric acid's anti‐tachycardial, anti‐inflammatory, anti‐ion pump dysfunction and anti‐electrolyte imbalance properties are the mechanisms for these cardioprotective effects.
Intergenerational transmission of genetic risk for hyperactivity and inattention. Direct genetic transmission or genetic nurture?
Authors: Voronin Ivan , Ouellet‐Morin Isabelle , Petitclerc Amélie , Morneau‐Vaillancourt Geneviève , Brendgen Mara , Dione Ginette , Vitaro Frank , Boivin Michel
Published: March 2024

Background

Hyperactivity and inattention, the symptoms of ADHD, are marked by high levels of heritability and intergenerational transmission. Two distinct pathways of genetic intergenerational transmission are distinguished: direct genetic transmission when parental genetic variants are passed to the child's genome and genetic nurture when the parental genetic background contributes to the child's outcomes through rearing environment. This study assessed genetic contributions to hyperactivity and inattention in childhood through these transmission pathways.

Methods

The sample included 415 families from the Quebec Newborn Twin Study. Twins' hyperactivity and inattention were assessed in early childhood by parents and in primary school by teachers. The polygenic scores for ADHD (ADHD‐PGS) and educational attainment (EA‐PGS) were computed from twins' and parents' genotypes. A model of intergenerational transmission was developed to estimate (1) the contributions of parents' and children's PGS to the twins' ADHD symptoms and (2) whether these variances were explained by genetic transmission and/or genetic nurture.

Results

ADHD‐PGS explained up to 1.6% of the variance of hyperactivity and inattention in early childhood and primary school. EA‐PGS predicted ADHD symptoms at both ages, explaining up to 1.6% of the variance in early childhood and up to 5.5% in primary school. Genetic transmission was the only significant transmission pathway of both PGS. The genetic nurture channeled through EA‐PGS explained up to 3.2% of the variance of inattention in primary school but this association was non‐significant.

Conclusions

Genetic propensities to ADHD and education predicted ADHD symptoms in childhood, especially in primary school. Its intergenerational transmission was driven primarily by genetic variants passed to the child, rather than by environmentally mediated parental genetic effects. The model developed in this study can be leveraged in future research to investigate genetic transmission and genetic nurture while accounting for parental assortative mating.
Synthesis of Stable Isotope, Tritiated, and Carbon‐14 Labeled Balcinrenone
Authors: Bergare Jonas , Bailey Christopher , Sörensen Henrik , Grönberg Gunnar , Broberg Karl , Berglund Monica , Grecu Tudor , Sanchez Carolina , Emtenäs Hans , Bragg Ryan A. , Elmore Charles S.
Published: March 2024

As part of a medicinal chemistry program aimed at discovering a mineralocorticoid receptor modulator for treatment of kidney and cardiovascular indications, multiple labeled versions of the lead compound, balcinrenone (AZD9977), were prepared. Four stable isotope labeled versions of the compound were prepared for clinical bioanalysis and biological investigations. Three of these stable isotope labeled compounds were tritiated as well as the parent for biology applications and DMPK investigations. They were prepared using a standard iodination–tritiodehalogentation approach. Finally, AZD9977 was prepared in carbon‐14 labeled form for preclinical and clinical applications.
Comparative three‐dimensional jaw muscle anatomy of marsupial carnivores (Dasyurus spp.) and the termite‐eating numbat (Myrmecobius fasciatus)
Authors: Thomas Vanessa J. , Shaw Jeremy , Tay Natasha , Warburton Natalie M.
Published: March 2024

Among marsupials, the endangered numbat (Myrmecobius fasciatus) is the only obligate myrmecophage with a diet comprised strictly of termites. Like many other specialised myrmecophagous mammals, numbats have a gracile and highly specialised skull morphology with an elongated rostrum and small braincase. Myrmecobiidae is one of four taxonomic families within the Australasian marsupial order Dasyuromorphia, and to date, the muscular anatomy of any member of this group is relatively poorly known. We utilised microdissection and contrast‐enhanced microcomputed tomography scanning to provide the first comprehensive qualitative and quantitative descriptions of jaw muscle anatomy in numbats and quolls (Dasuyrus species). The arrangement of the jaw muscles across these species was conservative, both in gross anatomy and muscle proportions, corresponding to a ‘generalised’ mammalian pattern. In contrast to Dasyurus, the jaw muscles of the numbat were greatly reduced. Many aspects of the muscle anatomy of the numbat were similar to patterns reported in other myrmecophagous species, particularly a greatly reduced temporalis muscle. Unusually, the digastric muscle in the numbat was comprised of a single, large anterior belly while the posterior belly was absent. We propose that the enlarged anterior belly of the digastric may be linked to jaw stabilisation and coordination of tongue movements during feeding. The lateral insertion and fascial connection of the digastric to the tongue in numbats may also aid in distributing stress evenly across the jaw and minimise muscle fatigue. The muscle descriptions and three‐dimensional models provided in this study will facilitate further analysis of musculoskeletal adaptation and evolution within the Dasyuromorphia.
Relative Mediastinal Displacement Index (RMDI): A Prenatal MRI Indicator of Adverse Events in Fetuses With Isolated Left Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia
Authors: Wu Fan , Chen Yonghao , Zhang Xin , Li Yuchao , Chen Zhaoji , Liu Zhenqing , Dai Wangchun , Yang Chaoxiang , Liu Hongsheng
Published: March 2024

Background

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO), has partly improved congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) outcomes, yet the overall morbidity and mortality remain high. Existing prenatal indicators for CDH fetuses are operator‐dependent, time‐consuming, or less accurate, a new simple and accurate indicator to indicate adverse events in CDH patients is needed.

Purpose

To propose and assess the association of a new MRI parameter, the relative mediastinal displacement index (RMDI), with adverse events including in‐hospital deaths or the need for ECMO in fetuses with isolated left CDH (iLCDH).

Study Type

Retrospective analysis.

Subjects

One hundred thirty‐nine fetuses were included in the iLCDH group (24 with adverse events and 115 without) and 257 fetuses were included in the control group from two centers in Guangzhou.

Field Strength/Sequence

3.0 T, T2WI‐TRUFI; 1.5 T, T2WI‐FIESTA.

Assessment

Three operators independently measured the , , and DH on the axial images. The calculation formula of the RMDI was ( + )/DH.

Statistical Tests

The independent sample t test, Mann–Whitney U test, Chi‐square test, Chi‐square test continuity correction, Fisher's test, linear regression analysis, logistic regression analysis, intraclass correlation coefficient, receiver operating characteristic curve analysis, and Delong test. A P value <0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

The RMDI did not change with gestational age in the iLCDH group (with [P = 0.189] and without [P = 0.567] adverse events) and the control group (P = 0.876). There were significant differences in RMDI between the iLCDH group (0.89 [0.65, 1.00]) and the control group (−0.23 [−0.34, −0.16]). In the iLCDH group, RMDI was the only indicator left for indicating adverse events, and the best cutoff value was 1.105. Moreover, there was a significant difference in diagnostic accuracy between the RMDI (AUC = 0.900) and MSA (AUC = 0.820), LHR (AUC = 0.753), o/e LHR (AUC = 0.709), and o/e TFLV (AUC = 0.728), respectively.

Data Conclusion

The RMDI is expected to be a simple and accurate tool for indicating adverse events in fetuses with iLCDH.

Evidence Level

4

Technical Efficacy

Stage 1
Should we use risk selection tests for HPV 16 and/or 18 positive cases: Comparison of p16/Ki67 and cytology
Authors: Mazurec Karolina , Trzeszcz Martyna , Mazurec Maciej , Streb Joanna , Halon Agnieszka , Jach Robert
Published: March 2024

Major screening abnormalities in precolposcopic stage are tests results that imply direct referral to colposcopy (and/or expedited treatment) without performing additional high‐grade squamous intraepithelial lesions or worse (HSIL+) risk selection testing. Currently, both clinically validated HSIL+ risk selection tests, reflex cytology and reflex p16/Ki67 dual staining (DS), are being compared for use in primary human papillomavirus (HPV)‐based screening to avoid possible overtreatment, but there is still no sufficient data available for their performance. Among 30 066 liquid‐based cervical cancer screening tests results, a group of 332 women was selected with available high‐risk types of HPV tests results with 16/18 limited genotyping, liquid‐based cytology, DS, and histology results from standardized colposcopy with biopsy. In HPV 16/18+ cases, three triage approaches were retrospectively analyzed. Predictive values for detection of HSIL+ were calculated and number of colposcopies required in each strategy. Both triage models with DS used (reflex cytology followed by DS, and reflex DS alone in all cases) had significantly higher positive predictive value for HSIL+ than strategy with reflex cytology alone (44.2%/45.7% vs. 28.3%; p < 0.0001). In models with DS, less colposcopies were required (95/92 vs. 152) and less colposcopies were needed per HSIL+ detection (2.26/2.19 vs. 3.54). Only one HSIL+ case was missed in both triage models with DS incorporation. p16/Ki67 dual‐stain may be an effective, alone or combined with cytology, triage test to detect HSIL+ in patients with major screening abnormalities in primary HPV‐based cervical cancer screening. Performing cytology as the first triage test improves the strategy by enabling referrals to expedited treatment in selected cases.
Effect of a group logotherapeutic program for older adults on mental health indicators
Authors: Humer Elke , Kisler Ida‐Maria , Bach Doris , Schimböck Wolfgang , Pieh Christoph , Probst Thomas
Published: March 2024

The study aimed to evaluate a logotherapeutic program for its potential to improve mental well‐being in the elderly. Group logotherapy programs comprising eight sessions were provided to 44 older adults. Participants completed baseline, postintervention, and follow‐up questionnaires assessing mental well‐being, self‐esteem, life satisfaction, meaning in life, and psychological distress. The logotherapeutic program did not affect outcome measures when analyzed for the total sample. Separate analyses by participants scoring below or above the respective thresholds at baseline revealed increased well‐being and self‐esteem and decreased symptoms of depression, anxiety, obsessive–compulsive disorders, and somatoform symptoms, but only in individuals who were already experiencing poor well‐being, poor self‐esteem, or some level of psychological distress before the intervention. Results suggest that the logotherapy‐based group program can be particularly effective for older adults who are already experiencing psychological distress or have lower self‐esteem.
Myelin figures from microbial glycolipid biosurfactant amphiphiles
Authors: Roy Debdyuti , Chaleix Vincent , Parikh Atul N. , Baccile Niki
Published: March 2024

Myelin figures (MFs)—cylindrical lyotropic liquid crystalline structures consisting of concentric arrays of bilayers and aqueous media—arise from the hydration of the bulk lamellar phase of many common amphiphiles. Prior efforts have concentrated on the formation, structure, and dynamics of myelin produced by phosphatidylcholine (PC)‐based amphiphiles. Here, we study the myelinization of glycolipid microbial amphiphiles, commonly addressed as biosurfactants, produced through the process of fermentation. The hydration characteristics (and phase diagrams) of these biological amphiphiles are atypical (and thus their capacity to form myelin) because unlike typical amphiphiles, their molecular structure is characterized by two hydrophilic groups (sugar, carboxylic acid) on both ends with a hydrophobic moiety in the middle. We tested three different glycolipid molecules: C18:1 sophorolipids and single‐glucose C18:1 and C18:0 glucolipids, all in their nonacetylated acidic form. Neither sophorolipids (too soluble) nor C18:0 glucolipids (too insoluble) displayed myelin growth at room temperature (RT, 25°C). The glucolipid C18:1 (G‐C18:1), on the other hand, showed dense myelin growth at RT below pH 7.0. Examining their growth rates, we find that they display a linear (L, myelin length; t, time) growth rate, suggesting ballistic growth, distinctly different from the dependence, characterizing diffusive growth such as what occurs in more conventional phospholipids. These results offer some insight into lipidic mesophases arising from a previously unexplored class of amphiphiles with potential applications in the field of drug delivery.
Effect of enzymatic hydrolysis of arabinoxylan on the quality of frozen dough during the subfreezing process
Authors: Zhu Nannan , Liu Yufen , Zhang Xing , Gao Haiyan , Zeng Jie , Yang Junjie , Song Jianguo , Li Xinjian , Zhao Tianxiang
Published: March 2024

BACKGROUND

The objective of this investigation was to examine the impact of enzymatic hydrolysis of arabinoxylan (AX) on frozen dough quality under subfreezing conditions. The dough was subjected to freezing at −40 °C for 2 h and then stored at −9, −12, and −18 °C for 15 days. The water loss, freezable water content, water migration, and microstructure of the dough were measured.

RESULTS

The dough containing 0.8% cellulase enzymatically hydrolyzed AX (CAX) required the shortest duration when traversing the maximum ice‐crystal formation zone (6.5 min). The dough with xylanase enzymatically hydrolyzed AX (XAX) demonstrated a faster freezing rate than the dough with CAX. The inclusion of both XAX and CAX in the dough resulted in the lowest freezable water loss and reduced freezable water content and free‐water content levels, whereas the inclusion of xylanase‐cellulase combined with enzymatically hydrolyzed AX resulted in higher free‐water content levels. The textural properties of the subfreezing temperature dough were not significantly different from the dough stored at −18 °C and sometimes even approached or surpassed the quality observed in the control group rather than the dough stored at −18 °C. In addition, the gluten network structure remains well preserved in XAX‐ and CAX‐containing doughs with minimal starch damage.

CONCLUSION

The enzymatic hydrolysis of AX from wheat bran can be used as a useful additive to improve the quality of frozen dough. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Fatigue is associated with disease severity in adult patients with hidradenitis suppurativa
Authors: Chodziuk Astrid , Holgersen Nikolaj , Nielsen Valdemar W. , Thyssen Jacob P. , Egeberg Alexander , Thomsen Simon F.
Published: March 2024

Background

Patients with hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) experience fatigue, but no studies have yet examined the association between HS severity and fatigue intensity.

Objectives

To examine the possible association between HS severity and fatigue and identify fatigue subtypes present in patients with HS.

Methods

Adult patients with HS participated in a survey assessing fatigue using the Multidimensional Fatigue Inventory‐20. Disease severity was determined by self‐report.

Results

Data from 654 adult patients with HS were analysed and compared with 3,788 reference individuals from the general population. Total and subtype fatigue scores for patients with HS were significantly higher compared with the general population reference individuals and increased with higher HS severity, itch, pain, sleep, dermatology life quality index scores and lower socioeconomic status. The association between HS severity and increased fatigue scores remained statistically significant after adjustment for age, sex, and socioeconomic status.

Conclusions

Patients with HS had a significantly higher fatigue score compared with the general population reference individuals in a severity‐dependent manner. A higher awareness of fatigue as a symptom in patients with HS is warranted.
Role of copper and zinc additives in the stiction phenomenon of automotive braking systems
Authors: Motta Michele , Iodice Valentina , Xicola Agusti Sin , Truccolo Alberto , Fedrizzi Lorenzo , Andreatta Francesco
Published: March 2024

The braking system of a motor vehicle is a multi‐material system, subjected to various aggressive conditions. Corrosion of the brake disc during stationary periods can determine the onset of a high adhesion force (stiction) capable of compromising the reliability of the braking system during vehicle motion. The purpose of this work is to study the effect of the introduction of Cu and Zn in the friction material composition. This effect was investigated through electrochemical measurements (electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, potentiodynamic polarization, and stiction tests), conducted using an electrochemical cell simulating the parking brake, complemented by the examination of the brake disc and pad surfaces and water absorption tests. The results suggest that porous components, like vermiculite, in the composite friction material led to high contact force. Moreover, 10 wt% of Cu in the friction material does not significantly affect its stiction behavior in our testing configuration. In contrast, 10 wt% Zn in the friction material significantly reduces the stiction propensity by acting with a complex synergistic mechanism combining physical and chemical shielding effects.
Multidrug‐resistant Enterococcus faecium strains enter the Norwegian marine environment through treated sewage
Authors: Radisic Vera , Grevskott Didrik H. , Junghardt Nadja , Øvreås Lise , Marathe Nachiket P.
Published: March 2024

This study aimed to understand the antibiotic resistance prevalence among Enterococcus spp. from raw and treated sewage in Bergen city, Norway. In total, 517 Enterococcus spp. isolates were obtained from raw and treated sewage from five sewage treatment plants (STPs) over three sampling occasions, with Enterococcus faecium as the most prevalent (n = 492) species. E. faecium strains (n = 307) obtained from the influent samples, showed the highest resistance against quinupristin/dalfopristin (67.8%). We observed reduced susceptibility to erythromycin (30.6%) and tetracycline (6.2%) in these strains. E. faecium strains (n = 185) obtained from the effluent samples showed highest resistance against quinupristin/dalfopristin (68.1%) and reduced susceptibility to erythromycin (24.9%) and tetracycline (8.6%). We did not detect resistance against last‐resort antibiotics, such as linezolid, vancomycin, and tigecycline in any of the strains. Multidrug‐resistant (MDR) E. faecium strains were detected in both influent (2.3%) and effluent (2.2%) samples. Whole genome sequencing of the Enterococcus spp. strains (n = 25) showed the presence of several antibiotic resistance genes, conferring resistance against aminoglycosides, tetracyclines, and macrolides, as well as several virulence genes and plasmid replicons. Two sequenced MDR strains from the effluents belonged to the hospital‐associated clonal complex 17 and carried multiple virulence genes. Our study demonstrates that clinically relevant MDR Enterococcus spp. strains are entering the marine environment through treated sewage.
Complete nucleotide sequence and comparative genomic analysis of microcin B17 plasmid pMccB17
Authors: Ajeigbe Mayokun , Childs Stephen , Paget Timothy A. , Bingle Lewis E. H.
Published: March 2024

We present a comprehensive sequence and bioinformatic analysis of the prototypical microcin plasmid, pMccb17, which includes a definitive sequence for the microcin operon, mcb. Microcin B17 (MccB17) is a ribosomally synthesized and posttranslationally modified peptide produced by Escherichia coli. It inhibits bacterial DNA gyrase similarly to quinolone antibiotics. The mcb operon, which consists of seven genes encoding biosynthetic and immunity/export functions, was originally located on the low copy number IncFII plasmid pMccB17 in the Escherichia coli strain LP17. It was later transferred to E. coli K‐12 through conjugation. In this study, the plasmid was extracted from the E. coli K‐12 strain RYC1000 [pMccB17] and sequenced twice using an Illumina short‐read method. The first sequencing was conducted with the host bacterial chromosome, and the plasmid DNA was then purified and sequenced separately. After assembly into a single contig, polymerase chain reaction primers were designed to close the single remaining gap via Sanger sequencing. The resulting complete circular DNA sequence is 69,190 bp long and includes 81 predicted genes. These genes were initially identified by Prokka and subsequently manually reannotated using BLAST. The plasmid was assigned to the F2:A‐:B‐ replicon type with a MOBF12 group conjugation system. A comparison with other IncFII plasmids revealed a large proportion of shared genes, particularly in the conjugative plasmid backbone. However, unlike many contemporary IncFII plasmids, pMccB17 lacks transposable elements and antibiotic resistance genes. In addition to the mcb operon, this plasmid carries 25 genes of unknown function.
Process optimization and performance verification of CFRP laser surface modification
Authors: Li Shaolong , Wang Wenxuan , Wang Lin , Li Zihao , Teng Zhan , Yang Yikai , Zhang Chenyang , Hu Yue , Feng Lijun , Wang Disheng , Yang Wenfeng
Published: March 2024

Adhesive bonding has gradually replaced mechanical connections as the primary method for composite material bonding, with surface quality being the key factor determining the effectiveness of composite material adhesion. Laser surface treatment, known for its green and precise characteristics, has garnered widespread attention from both academia and industry. However, the process parameters of laser surface treatment are complex, efficiency is low, and the mechanism remains unclear. This paper, based on the response surface methodology (RSM), investigates the influence of laser secondary parameters on the resin removal rate of carbon fiber reinforced polymer/plastic (CFRP) surfaces and the impact of defocusing on surface treatment efficiency. The results indicate that when the total laser energy density (Et) is 69 J/cm2, the overlap ratio in the warp direction (OLs) is 76%, and the overlap ratio in the weft direction (OLh) is 85%, the surface tensile shear strength increases by 90.59% and 27.77% compared to the original surface and polished surface, respectively. When the defocus distance is +8 mm, the efficiency of laser surface treatment is 2.25 times that of non‐defocus, with minimal impact on mechanical performance. The surface treatment mechanism, with changes in Et, primarily involves the pure thermal decomposition of the resin matrix in an oxygen‐free environment, oxidative decomposition, and the synergistic action of the decomposition products' oxidation. Through the coupled optimization of laser process parameters, this work enhances the efficiency and effectiveness of composite material adhesive surface treatment, promoting the engineering application of laser technology.

Highlights

By establishing a response surface model, the study elucidated the impact patterns of laser secondary parameters (overlap rates in the warp and weft directions, total energy density) on the resin removal rate of CFRP surfaces.

Based on the laser surface treatment phenomena at different total energy densities, the study analyzed and revealed the mechanism of near‐infrared (1064 nm) laser resin removal from CFRP surfaces.

By increasing the spot size through defocusing, the efficiency of laser surface treatment was enhanced, and the impact on the interfacial properties of CFRP after defocused treatment was validated.
Evaluation of a complex couplet care intervention in a neonatal intensive care unit: A mixed methods study protocol
Authors: Bjerregaard Michella , Axelin Anna , Carlsen Emma Louise Malchau , Birk Hans Okkels , Poulsen Ingrid , Palisz Patrick , Kallemose Thomas , Brødsgaard Anne
Published: March 2024

Background

Families with an infant in need of intensive care most often experience a harmful separation after birth. This is due to a division of medical specialties into neonatal care and maternal care. Therefore, a couplet care intervention is implemented for mother‐infant dyads in a neonatal intensive care unit. This study protocol provides a comprehensive evaluation of the intervention. The aim is to evaluate the effect and implementation of a complex couplet care intervention to promote zero separation between mother and infant.

Methods

The couplet care intervention is a family‐centered model of care, where treatment‐requiring mother‐infant dyads will be admitted together and receive couplet care by neonatal nurses. The study adheres to the framework of the Medical Research Council and will use a mixed methods embedded design comprising a quasi‐experimental trial and a qualitative process evaluation. Finally, a health economic evaluation will be conducted to assess the cost‐effectiveness of this complex couplet care intervention.

Discussion

Separation of mother‐infant dyads after birth has an adverse impact on family health and well‐being. This study protocol evaluates a complex couplet care intervention. With this study, a first step is taken to help bridge the gap between current practices and a new care model to prevent the separation of mothers and their infants
Theoretical limiting‐efficiency assessment on advanced crystalline silicon solar cells with Auger ideality factor and wafer thickness modifications
Authors: Su Qiao , Lin Hao , Wang Genshun , Tang Hanbo , Xue Chaowei , Li Zhenguo , Xu Xixiang , Gao Pingqi
Published: March 2024

With the improvement of surface passivation, bulk recombination is becoming an indispensable and decisive factor to assess the theoretical limiting efficiency (
) of crystalline silicon (c‐Si) solar cells. In simultaneous consideration of surface and bulk recombination, a modified model of
evaluation is developed. Surface recombination is directly depicted with contact selectivity while bulk recombination is revised on the aspects of ideality factor and wafer thickness. The
of the double‐side silicon heterojunction (SHJ) and double‐side tunneling‐oxide passivating contact (TOPCon) solar cells are numerically simulated using the new model as 28.99% and 29.19%, respectively. However, the
of single‐side TOPCon solar cells, the more practicable scenario, is only 27.79%. Besides, the
of the double‐side SHJ solar cells would exceed the double‐side TOPCon solar cells if the recombination parameter of the non‐contacted area is higher than 0.6 fA/cm2, instead of perfect passivation. Our results are instructive in accurately assessing efficiency potential and accordingly optimizing design strategies of c‐Si solar cells.
A left‐sided destroyed lung in a 11‐year‐old girl: A rare sequela after Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection
Authors: Zuo Maoyi , Wang Hao , Zhu Huaping
Published: March 2024

Mycoplasma pneumoniae infection is one of the most common causes of community‐acquired pneumonia in children, usually experiencing a favorable prognosis.Cases of M. pneumoniae infection resulting in respiratory failure, severe pulmonary or extrapulmonary sequelae, and death are relatively rare.Currently, no cases related to a destroyed lung with Mycoplasma‐associated infection have been reported.Therefore, we report a case of a destroyed lung in an 11‐year‐old girl with Mycoplasma‐associated infection.
Evaluating the context dependency of large river nursery habitats for fishes in the lower Red River catchment
Authors: Ramsey Paul Q. , Dattilo John , DeVries Dennis R. , Brewer Shannon K.
Published: March 2024

Both fine‐ and coarse‐scale physicochemical conditions affect the quantity and quality of nursery habitats within riverine ecosystems. Nursery habitats in large, braided, and sandbed streams such as the lower Red River of Oklahoma, Texas, and Arkansas are not well described and likely vary among species. Identification of nursery habitats is important for developing proper conservation and management actions. We used an occupancy model framework to determine how hierarchical habitat factors related to the occupancy of 38 juvenile fish species. Our findings indicate that large river nursery habitats can generally be defined by reaches with off‐channel slackwater habitat, having deep pools but shallow thalweg depths, typically located further away from dams, and with low percentages of limestone lithology. Species within the same genera often exhibited variable relationships with river slope, amount of large woody debris, channel shape, discharge, and position of reaches within the stream network. Our results indicate important species‐specific relationships that define nursery habitats, indicating an important context dependency of nursery habitats even within fishes that are taxonomically similar. If the goal is to improve recruitment by native fishes, then consideration of the important species‐specific differences would be beneficial if improvements are made to nursery habitats. Moreover, careful consideration of the effects of dam operations will help maintain proper connectivity to off‐channel habitats important in downriver portions of the river network.
Self‐Assembled DNA Composite‐Engineered Mesenchymal Stem Cells for Improved Skin‐Wound Repair
Authors: Li Zhuoting , Wang Yiming , Wang Hong , Wang Haiyan , Shang Yingxu , Wang Shihua , Han Qin , Li Jing , Zhao Robert Chunhua , Jiang Qiao , Ding Baoquan
Published: March 2024

The direct use of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) as therapeutics for skin injuries is a promising approach, yet it still faces several obstacles, including limited adhesion, retention, and engraftment of stem cells in the wound area, as well as impaired regenerative and healing functions. Here, DNA‐based self‐assembled composites are reported that can aid the adhesion of MSCs in skin wounds, enhance MSC viability, and accelerate wound closure and re‐epithelialization. Rolling‐circle amplification (RCA)‐derived DNA flowers, equipped with multiple copies of cyclic Arg‐Gly‐Asp (cRGD) peptides and anti‐von Willebrand factor (vWF) aptamers, act as robust scavengers of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and enable synergistic recognition and adhesion to stem cells and damaged vascular endothelial cells. These DNA structure‐aided stem cells are retained at localized wound sites, maintain repair function, and promote angiogenesis and growth factor secretion. In both normal and diabetes‐prone db/db mice models with excisional skin injuries, facile topical administration of DNA flower‐MSCs elicits rapid blood vessel formation and enhances the sealing of the wound edges in a single dose. DNA composite‐engineered stem cells warrant further exploration as a new strategy for the treatment of skin and tissue damage.
Enhancing the Intellectual Capital of Research and Development Centres using Business Intelligence: A System Dynamics Approach
Authors: Harandi Ali Akbar Haddadi , Valmohammadi Changiz , Hosseini Seyed Hossein
Published: March 2024

This study employs system dynamics simulation to examine the scenarios and policies aimed at enhancing the intellectual capital of R&D centres. Through an in‐depth review of the relevant literature, such as thematic analysis, along with an examination of regulations and expert interviews and focus group discussions as well, the dimensions, variables and measurement indicators associated with Intellectual Capital and Business Intelligence, were identified. The dynamic relationships among these variables are then modelled, and the model's behaviour is simulated. By implementing two scenarios, namely reducing government financial support and increasing the competitive environment, the simulation results indicate that the enhancement of informational and relational capital will improve structural capital and increase business intelligence. Over ten years of simulation, the centre's dedicated revenue will grow by more than 150%. The proposed dynamic modelling and system behaviour simulation can serve as a basis for setting an intellectual capital framework in R&D centres, particularly in developing countries.
Engaging in the scholarship of practice: Examples from the field
Authors: Braxton John M. , MacKenzie Nicholas , Liepins Alexander , Grites Thomas J. , Giblin Joan , Morris Mounira
Published: March 2024

This article highlights several examples of student affairs practitioners and graduate preparation faculty engaging in the scholarship of practice. In doing so, these individuals merit a designation as scholars of practice because they are conducting research using their disciplinary knowledge and skill to address an institutional problem or inform future student affairs practice.
Image registration for zooming: A statistically consistent local feature mapping approach
Authors: Das Sujay , Roy Anik , Sarathi Mukherjee Partha
Published: March 2024

Image registration is a widely used tool for matching two images of the same scene with one another. In the literature, several image registration techniques are available to register rigid‐body and non‐rigid‐body transformations. One such important transformation is zooming. There are very few feature‐based methods that address this particular problem. These methods fail miserably when there are only a limited number of point features available in the image. This paper proposes a feature‐based approach that works with a feature that is readily available in almost all images, for registering two images of the same image object where one is a zoomed‐in version of the other. In the proposed method, we first detect the possible edge points which we consider as features in both the reference and the zoomed image. Then, we map these features of the reference and the zoomed image with one another and find the relationship between them using a mathematical model. Finally, we use the relationship to register the zoomed‐in image. This method outperforms some of the state‐of‐the‐art methods in many occasions. Several numerical examples and some statistical properties justify that this method works well in many applications.
Asymptotic behaviour of a non‐autonomous multispecies Holling type II model with a complex type of noises
Authors: Xu Libai , Ma Xintong , Zhao Yanyan
Published: March 2024

The deterministic non‐autonomous multispecies Holling type II model and its stochastic version with a simple type of noise have been proposed to infer multispecies community structure. However, these models fail to account for complex types of noises, which may render the model overly simplistic. In this paper, a non‐autonomous multispecies Holling type II model with a complex type of noise has been proposed. We establish sufficient conditions for various mathematical properties of the solutions, including existence and uniqueness, stochastic permanence and extinction. Additionally, numerical simulation studies are provided to illustrate our theoretical findings.
Synthesis of alternating copolymer PAspNa‐alt‐PAsp(Pr) for drug delivery system
Authors: Mai Le Thi Tuyet , Vy Do Thi Khanh , Duong Nguyen Thanh
Published: March 2024

Alternating copolymers (ACs) contain two distinct monomeric unit types dispersed in alternating order of hydrophilic block and hydrophobic block. ACs have extensive and versatile applications in both academia and industry, especially in drug delivery systems (DDS) due to their unique physical and chemical properties. In the present research, poly(β‐benzyl l‐aspartate) (PBLA) was prepared by ring‐opening polymerization of BLA‐NCA. The result obtained from GPC showed that PBLA was successfully synthesized with narrow weight distribution Mw/Mn = 1.055. The outcome of copolymer has the degree of polymerization (DP) of PBLA was 50 based on the 1H NMR spectroscopy. Further, alternating copolymer poly(aspartate‐sodium) alternating poly(aspartate‐R) (PAspNa‐alt‐PAsp(Pr)), which allows the installation of expected compounds into a polymer backbone of PBLA without unwanted side effects, was synthesized via 2 steps: (1) aminolysis by 0.5 fold primary amine to attach hydrophobic group and (2) hydrolysis slowly by NaOH solution to form the hydrophilic group on the side chain of the polymer. The novel alternating copolymer synthesized successfully in this study was expected to be a promising candidate for drug delivery devices.
Physiological and pathological effects of phase separation in the central nervous system
Authors: Wang Jiaxin , Zhu Hongrui , Tian Ruijia , Zhang Qian , Zhang Haoliang , Hu Jin , Wang Sheng
Published: March 2024

Phase separation, also known as biomolecule condensate, participates in physiological processes such as transcriptional regulation, signal transduction, gene expression, and DNA damage repair by creating a membrane-free compartment. Phase separation is primarily caused by the interaction of multivalent non-covalent bonds between proteins and/or nucleic acids. The strength of molecular multivalent interaction can be modified by component concentration, the potential of hydrogen, posttranslational modification, and other factors. Notably, phase separation occurs frequently in the cytoplasm of mitochondria, the nucleus, and synapses. Phase separation in vivo is dynamic or stable in the normal physiological state, while abnormal phase separation will lead to the formation of biomolecule condensates, speeding up the disease progression. To provide candidate suggestions for the clinical treatment of nervous system diseases, this review, based on existing studies, carefully and systematically represents the physiological roles of phase separation in the central nervous system and its pathological mechanism in neurodegenerative diseases.