bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Aligning monitoring of virus barriers in potable reuse with unit process treatment mechanisms and time scales: A critical review and research needs
Authors: Adelman Michael J. , Oberoi Pooja , Oppenheimer Joan , Furatian Laith , Arabi Sara , Glover Caitlin M. , Jacangelo Joseph G.
Published: March 2024

Interest is growing in potable reuse in response to water scarcity and the desire for sustainable supplies. While potable reuse systems must control a variety of physical, chemical, and microbiological contaminants, human enteric viruses are particularly concerning and drive process performance objectives due to their often‐high occurrence in source waters, small size, potential resistance to treatment, and laborious methods to determine infectivity. This paper reviews the alignment of online monitoring practices with the mechanisms and time scales of the various barriers for enteric viruses. While there are numerous studies and reviews of individual barriers, no other review has been identified that covers operational monitoring of the entire potable reuse system. This paper also provides a critical assessment of the efficacy of current practices for operational and verification monitoring of the integrity of barriers to enteric viruses in potable reuse systems. The prevalence of human enteric viruses in wastewater and associated challenges of quantifying them through treatment are discussed within the risk management frameworks currently in use or under development for potable reuse systems. Monitoring approaches are then reviewed throughout the potable reuse water cycle. Current monitoring practices are compared with treatment process mechanisms and time scales, for the treatment barriers of biological wastewater treatment, membrane bioreactors, microfiltration/ultrafiltration, reverse osmosis, ultraviolet irradiation/advanced oxidation, ozonation, granular media/biologically active filtration, and chlorination. Monitoring and pathogen removal mechanisms are also reviewed for both environmental and engineered buffers. Implications are then discussed for future areas of research in potable reuse.
Bauteilversuche Oberesslingen – Teil 1
Authors: Fuhrmann Anna , Schmitz Marc , Lampert Barbara
Published: March 2024

Im Rahmen des Forschungs‐ und Entwicklungsvorhabens Instandsetzung unter Betrieb (IuB) der Bundesanstalt für Wasserbau werden gemeinsam mit dem Wasserstraßen‐Neubauamt Heidelberg, dem Institut für Technologie und Management im Baubetrieb des Karlsruher Instituts für Technologie sowie der Generaldirektion Wasserstraßen und Schifffahrt Bauteilversuche durchgeführt, um geeignete Verfahren zur Grundinstandsetzung einer Schleusenkammer unter zeitlich und räumlich eingeschränkten Randbedingungen in Hinsicht auf Arbeitszeiten und Platzverhältnisse zu identifizieren. Die Bauteilversuche finden an der Neckarschleuse Oberesslingen in der rechten Kammer statt, die bisher als Sparkammer für die linke Kammer genutzt wurde. Der Umfang erstreckt sich vom Teilabbruch der Kammerwand zur Reprofilierung mittels einer Vorsatzschale und partieller Trockenlegung bis zu einer Rahmenlösung, mit deren Hilfe zukünftig Tortausche innerhalb kurzer Zeit durchgeführt werden könnten. Die umfangreiche Konzeption der Bauteilversuche umfasst die zwingenden und technischen Anforderungen, die berücksichtigt werden müssen. Hierunter fallen sowohl allgemeingültige Anforderungen für die Umsetzbarkeit der erprobten Verfahren an weiteren Schleusen als auch spezifische Anforderungen, die für die Umsetzung in Oberesslingen maßgebend sind. Charakterisierend für die Bauteilversuche ist der mögliche Einsatz innovativer Verfahren und Herangehensweisen und dadurch bedingte Abweichungen des Regelwerks.
Handlungsrahmen Instandsetzung
Authors: Bödefeld Jörg , Huber Jörg , Wachholz Thilo
Published: March 2024

Stahlwasserbauteile haben im Hinblick auf die Betriebsfähigkeit und Sicherheit der Verkehrswasserbauwerke und damit auf die Leistungsfähigkeit der Bundeswasserstraßen in Deutschland eine große Bedeutung. Alleine in Schleusen und Wehren sind über 1500 Stahlwasserbauteile verbaut, die als Verschlüsse in Wehren den Wasserstand regeln und als Tore in Schleusen den Schiffen die Überwindung von Höhendifferenzen ermöglichen. Durch die erforderlichen Bewegungen und das teils strömende Wasser erfahren die Stahlwasserbauteile eine große Beanspruchung, die einen den Bauteilwiderstand reduzierenden Korrosionsprozess auslösen können. In Überlagerung mit einer vernachlässigten Instandhaltung dokumentiert die Bauwerksinspektion im Ergebnis einen entsprechend schlechten Zustand der Stahlwasserbauteile. Diese Randbedingungen haben die Wasserstraßen‐ und Schifffahrtsverwaltung des Bundes (WSV) dazu bewegt, die Erhaltung der Stahlwasserbauteile auf eine präventive Instandhaltungsstrategie umzustellen. Im Rahmen eines Konzepts Handlungsrahmen Instandsetzung sind eine Instandsetzung korrodierter Stahlbauteile und eine Erneuerung des Korrosionsschutzes in festen Intervallen vorgesehen. Dies stellt für die Verwaltung als Auftraggeber und die ausführenden Firmen als Auftragnehmer eine anspruchsvolle Aufgabe dar.
Assessing the impact of seasonality on bioenergy production from energy crops in Germany, considering just‐in‐time philosophy
Authors: Sadr Mohammad , Esmaeili Aliabadi Danial , Avşar Bihter , Thrän Daniela
Published: March 2024

The availability of biomass is strongly influenced by seasonality, which can affect the production of biofuels, biogas, and bio‐based products in the downstream bioenergy supply chain. Rapeseed, maize silage, sugar beet, wheat, and grass from grassland are the most popular energy crops; they play a significant role in the German bioenergy strategy and are being discussed extensively in the current gas shortage context. Most models in the literature assume yearly temporal resolution for these energy crops, which can negatively impact the accuracy of results. This problem is increasingly relevant under weather conditions that are varying increasingly due to climate change; in this study we therefore employ the extended bioenergy optimization model (BENOPTex) to explore the impact of seasonality on the optimal deployment of biomass from energy crops in bioenergy production in the German heat, power, and transport sectors, which typically show high dependency on fossil fuels. First, we increased the model's temporal resolution using available datasets and documents. Next, the varying availability factors were embedded in the optimization model, considering the no‐storage policy for energy crops in accordance with the just‐in‐time philosophy. Finally, the outcomes of the BENOPTex with annual resolution were contrasted with the results including the effects of seasonality, while considering various objective functions. We demonstrated a shift toward the consumption of woody biomass until 2045 due to its longer shelf life and improved storability. The energy demand stemming from summer leisure travel was also anticipated to exceed the bioenergy system's capacity. The insights provided here might be interesting for policymakers who design roadmaps for bioenergy development with a more resilient energy supply.
Site‐specific mutagenesis on Mnemiopsin 2: Calcium coordination and substrate binding properties of new variants
Authors: Ahmadi Yasaman , Jafarian Vahab , Shirdel Akram
Published: March 2024

We used site‐specific mutagenesis by targeting E179 and F190 on the structure of photoprotein Mnemiopsin 2 (Mn2) from Mnemiopsis leidyi. The tertiary structure of E179S and F190L mutants was made by the MODELLER program. Far‐ultraviolet circular dichroism data showed that the overall secondary structural content of photoprotein is not changed upon mutation, however the helicity and stabilizing interactions in helical structure decreases in mutants as compared with the wild‐type (WT) photoprotein. Fluorescence spectra data revealed that the tertiary structure of the mutants is more compact than that of WT Mn2. According to the heat‐induced denaturation experiments data, the melting temperature (Tm) for the unfolding of tertiary structure of the F190L variant increases by 3°C compared with that of the WT and E179S mutant. Interestingly, the conformational enthalpy of the F190L mutant (86 kcal mol−1) is considerably lower than those in the WT photoprotein (102 kcal mol−1) and E179S mutant (106 kcal mol−1). The significant difference in the enthalpy of the thermal unfolding process could be explained by considering that the thermally denatured state of the F190L mutant is structurally less expanded than the WT and E179S variants. Bioluminescence activity data showed that the maximum characteristic wavelengths of the mutants undergo blue shift as compared with the WT protein. Initial intensity of the F190L and E179S variants was recorded to be 137.5% and 55.9% of the WT protein, respectively.
Communicative impairment and its neural correlates in Alzheimer's disease and frontotemporal dementia
Authors: Haeger Alexa , Muising Janka , Romanzetti Sandro , Fimm Bruno , Matz Oliver , Schulz Jörg B. , Heim Stefan , Reetz Kathrin
Published: March 2024

Objective

Communication skills can deteriorate in neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease (AD) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD); however, their clinical assessment and treatment in patient care can be challenging. In the present study, we aimed to quantify the distinctive communication resources and barriers reported by patients and their relatives in AD and FTD and associated these communicative characteristics with clinical parameters, such as the degree of cognitive impairment and atrophy in language‐associated brain areas.

Methods

We assessed self‐reported communication barriers and resources in 33 individuals with AD and FTD through an interview on daily‐life communication, using the Aachener KOMPASS questionnaire. We correlated reported communication barriers and resources with atrophy from high‐resolution 3T brain magnetic resonance imaging, neuropsychological assessment, and neurodegenerative markers from cerebrospinal fluid.

Results

Communicative impairment was higher in FTD compared to AD. Increased reported communication barriers in our whole sample were associated with the atrophy rate in the left middle temporal lobe, a critical site within the neuronal language network, and with depressive symptoms as well as the semantic word fluency from neuropsychological assessment. The best model for prediction of communicative impairment included the diagnosis (AD or FTD), semantic word fluency, and depressive symptoms.

Conclusions

Our study demonstrates that communication barriers and resources can be successfully assessed via a structured interview based on self‐report and report of patients’ relatives in practice and are reflected in neuroimaging specific for AD and FTD as well as in further clinical parameters specific for these neurodegenerative diseases. This can potentially open new treatment options for clinical practice and patient care.
Rapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder and its relation to Parkinson's disease: The potential of graph measures as brain biomarkers to identify the underlying physiopathology of the disorder
Authors: Najafzadeh Milad , Mohammadian Fatemeh , Mirabian Sara , Ganji Zohre , Akbari Hossein , Rezaie Masoud , Ranjbar Esmaeil , Zare Hoda , Nasseri Shahrokh , Ferini‐Strambi Luigi
Published: March 2024

Rapid eye movement behavior disorder (RBD) is a parasomnia characterized by the loss of skeletal muscle atonia during the rapid eye movement (REM) sleep phase. On the other hand, idiopathic RDB (iRBD) is considered the prelude of the various α‐synucleinopathies, including Parkinson's disease (PD), dementia with Lewy bodies and multiple system atrophy. Consequently, over 40% of patients eventually develop PD. Recent neuroimaging studies utilizing structural magnetic resonance imaging (s‐MRI), diffusion‐weighted imaging (DWI), and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) with graph theoretical analysis have demonstrated that patients with iRBD and Parkinson's disease have extensive brain abnormalities. Thus, it is crucial to identify new biomarkers that aid in determining the underlying physiopathology of iRBD group. This review was conducted systematically on the included full‐text articles of s‐MRI, DWI, and fMRI studies using graph theoretical analysis on patients with iRBD, per the procedures recommended by Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA). The literature search was conducted through the PubMed and Google scholar databases concentrating on studies from September to January 2022. Based on the three perspectives of integration, segregation, and centrality, the reviewed articles demonstrated that iRBD is associated with segregation disorders in frontal and limbic brain regions. Moreover, this study highlighted the need for additional longitudinal and multicenter studies to better understand the potential of graph metrics as brain biomarkers for identifying the underlying physiopathology of iRBD group.
Modular Divergent Synthesis of Indole Alkaloid Derivatives by an Atypical Ugi Multicomponent Reaction
Authors: Horst Brendan , van Duijnen Niels , Janssen Elwin , Hansen Thomas , Ruijter Eelco
Published: March 2024

We present an Ugi multicomponent approach to explore the chemical space around Aspidosperma‐type monoterpene indole alkaloids. By variation of the isocyanide and carboxylic acid inputs we demonstrate the rapid generation of molecular diversity and the possibility to introduce handles for further modification. The key Ugi three‐component reaction showed full diastereoselectivity towards the cis‐fused ring system, which can be rationalized by DFT calculations that moreover indicate that the reaction proceeds via a Passerini‐type hydrogen bonding mechanism. Several post‐Ugi modifications were also performed, including Pictet‐Spengler cyclization to highly complex nonacyclic natural product hybrid scaffolds.
Amino‐ and Alkoxybenziodoxoles: Facile Preparation and Use as Arynophiles
Authors: Kanemoto Kazuya , Yoshimura Ken , Ono Koki , Ding Wei , Ito Shingo , Yoshikai Naohiko
Published: March 2024

We report here on the facile synthesis of amino‐ and alkoxy‐λ3‐iodanes supported by a benziodoxole (BX) template and their use as arynophiles. The amino‐ and alkoxy‐BX derivatives can be readily synthesized by reacting the respective amines or alcohols with chlorobenziodoxole in the presence of a suitable base. Unlike previously known nitrogen‐ and oxygen‐bound iodane compounds, which have primarily been employed as electrophilic group transfer agents or oxidants, the present amino‐ and alkoxy‐BX reagents manifest themselves as nucleophilic amino and alkoxy transfer agents toward arynes. This reactivity leads to the aryne insertion into the N−I(III) or O−I(III) bond to afford ortho‐amino‐ and ortho‐alkoxy‐arylbenziodoxoles, iodane compounds nontrivial to procure by existing methods. The BX group in these insertion products exhibits excellent leaving group ability, enabling diverse downstream transformations.
Monitoring dynamic process with orthonormal subspace analysis
Authors: Lou Zhijiang , Hao Weichen , Lu Shan , Wang Yonghui
Published: March 2024

Traditional multivariate statistics‐based process monitoring (MSPM) methods are static algorithms, and the “time lag shift” method (TLSM) is the most commonly used approach to handle the dynamic issue. This paper proves in theory that two drawbacks exist in TLSM‐based dynamic approaches: information unrelated to the real‐time data is also analyzed, and information that can be predicted by historical data is counted repeatedly in both real‐time and historical data. This paper adopts orthonormal subspace analysis (OSA) to handle these issues. OSA can successfully separate real‐time data into information that can be predicted by historical data (the dynamic component) and cannot be predicted for process monitoring (the static component), so the detection result is not influenced by redundant information and is more sensitive to process faults than TLSM‐based dynamic methods.
Density Functional Theory Calculations on Fluorescence‐Enhanced Mechanisms of the Optical Sensor for Zinc Ions, ADPA
Authors: Su Quyan , Li Yuanming , Han Jia , Zhou Xiaoguo , Liu Shilin
Published: March 2024

N‐(9‐anthracenylmethyl)‐N‐(2‐pyridinylmethyl)‐2‐pyridinemethanamine (ADPA) as a specific ion sensor for Zn2+ has been widely applied. Although the photo‐induced electron transfer (PET) mechanism was proposed previously, its fluorescence‐enhanced effect still remains somewhat ambiguous, according to unknown influences of non‐radiative energy decay pathways, such as intersystem crossing and internal conversion. Herein, a thorough study using density functional theory has been performed for low‐lying electronic states of the ADPA monomer and hydrated ADPA‐Zn2+ complex. Based on interfragment charge transfer analyses, we quantitatively calculated the amount of transferred electrons in the monomer and complex, providing solid evidences for the PET mechanism and in line with the conclusion of frontier molecular orbital analyses. Moreover, the ISC process of S1→T2 was confirmed to play a considerable role in the excitation energy relaxation process of the ADPA monomer, but this influence was significantly suppressed in the hydrated ADPA‐Zn2+ complex. These results provide additional clues for the design of new metal ion‐specific fluorescence probes.
CD39 expression defines exhausted CD4+ T cells associated with poor survival and immune evasion in human gastric cancer
Authors: Duan Zhen‐quan , Li Yu‐xian , Qiu Yuan , Shen Yang , Wang Ying , Zhang Yuan‐yuan , Zhu Bao‐hang , Yu Xiao‐hong , Tan Xue‐ling , Chen Weisan , Zhuang Yuan , Cheng Ping , Zhang Wei‐jun , Zou Quan‐ming , Ma Dai‐yuan , Peng Liu‐sheng
Published: March 2024

Objectives

CD4+ T cell helper and regulatory function in human cancers has been well characterised. However, the definition of tumor‐infiltrating CD4+ T cell exhaustion and how it contributes to the immune response and disease progression in human gastric cancer (GC) remain largely unknown.

Methods

A total of 128 GC patients were enrolled in the study. The expression of CD39 and PD‐1 on CD4+ T cells in the different samples was analysed by flow cytometry. GC‐infiltrating CD4+ T cell subpopulations based on CD39 expression were phenotypically and functionally assessed. The role of CD39 in the immune response of GC‐infiltrating T cells was investigated by inhibiting CD39 enzymatic activity.

Results

In comparison with CD4+ T cells from the non‐tumor tissues, significantly more GC‐infiltrating CD4+ T cells expressed CD39. Most GC‐infiltrating CD39+CD4+ T cells exhibited CD45RA−CCR7− effector–memory phenotype expressing more exhaustion‐associated inhibitory molecules and transcription factors and produced less TNF‐α, IFN‐γ and cytolytic molecules than their CD39−CD4+ counterparts. Moreover, ex vivo inhibition of CD39 enzymatic activity enhanced their functional potential reflected by TNF‐α and IFN‐γ production. Finally, increased percentages of GC‐infiltrating CD39+CD4+ T cells were positively associated with disease progression and patients' poorer overall survival.

Conclusion

Our study demonstrates that CD39 expression defines GC‐infiltrating CD4+ T cell exhaustion and their immunosuppressive function. Targeting CD39 may be a promising therapeutic strategy for treating GC patients.
Influence of the ion core on relaxation processes in dense plasmas
Authors: Ramazanov T. S. , Kodanova S. K. , Issanova M. K. , Kenzhegulov B. Z.
Published: March 2024

The effect of an ionic core on the temperature relaxation in dense hot plasma of beryllium is studied using the pseudpotential model by Gericke et al [Phys. Rev. E 2010, 81, 065401(R)]. Employing the screened version of the ion pseudpotential [by Ramazanov et al, Phys. Plasmas 2021, 28 (9), 092702], we computed the quantum transport cross section for the electron‐ion collisions in dense beryllium plasma, where screening is taking into account using the density response function in the long‐wavelength regime. The results for the transport cross section are used to compute a generalised Coulomb logarithm and electron‐ion collision frequency. Utilizing the latter, we show the effect of the ionic core on the temperature relaxation. To understand the role of the ionic core, we compare the results with the data computed considering ions as point‐like charges.
Living with voracious roommates: Factors that explain isotopic niche variation in a mixed colony of insectivorous bats
Authors: Peña‐Villalobos Isaac , Muñoz‐Pacheco Catalina B. , Escobar Martín A. H. , Jaksic Fabian M. , Sabat Pablo
Published: March 2024

Theory predicts that in resource‐limited environments, coexisting species may overlap their niche dimensions but must differ in at least one to avoid competitive exclusion. Specifically, it has been suggested that the coexistence of competing species within a guild, could be sustained with mechanisms of resource partitioning, such as segregation along a trophic dimension. Among the most gregarious mammals are bats, which present diversification in their diet based on habitat choice and body size. Despite differences that could explain specialization in prey selection, there are insufficient studies that explore food overlap in mixed bat colonies and the factors that determine the selection of prey, both at intra‐ and inter‐specific levels. To fill this gap, we analyzed the isotope signal (δ13C and δ15N) in feces collected in a mixed colony of Tadarida brasiliensis and Myotis chiloensis. To understand how several factors could influence these isotopic signals, intrinsic explanatory variables were analyzed, including body mass, body length, age, and sex. Also, extrinsic variables were analyzed, including monthly temporality and moonlight intensity. Our findings support age‐dependent specialization in M. chiloensis, with a significant role of moonlight intensity and sex on δ15N. In T. brasiliensis, we identified a significant effect of size, sex, and ear length on δ15N. Our analysis indicates that both species of bats experience diverse degrees of overlap through austral summer months, affected by several factors that explain the variability in their fecal isotopic signals.
Niche position and niche breadth effects on population abundances: A case study of New World Warblers (Parulidae)
Authors: Castaño‐Quintero Sandra , Velasco Julián , González‐Voyer Alejandro , Martínez‐Meyer Enrique , Yáñez‐Arenas Carlos
Published: March 2024

Species abundance patterns are influenced by a myriad of factors, including habitat availability and ecological niche characteristics. However, the evidence concerning the specific impact factors such as niche position and niche breadth on mean and maximum abundances in vertebrates at a broad geographical scale remains inconclusive. In this study, we investigated the influence of niche position and breadth on the abundance of 47 species of birds belonging to the Parulidae family, commonly known as New World Warblers. We obtained data on abundance and presence records spanning the reproductive distribution of these species and employed the outlying mean index analysis to calculate niche position and niche breadth. We assessed the relationship between abundance metrics and niche descriptors using phylogenetic regressions to account for the non‐independence resulting from phylogenetic ancestry. Initially, we developed individual models for each predictor and subsequently formulated a multi‐predictor model encompassing niche position, niche breadth, and their interaction. Our findings revealed a negative relationship between niche position and both mean and maximum abundance, while niche breadth exhibited a positive relationship with these niche characteristics. Notably, the results of the multi‐predictor models indicated that niche position exerted the most substantial influence on both mean and maximum abundance. Additionally, the interaction between niche position and niche breadth had the most positive and significant contribution to mean population abundance. This study underscores the need for future research in other vertebrates to delve into the mechanisms underlying these patterns. Such endeavors will not only enhance our understanding of ecological dynamics but also equip us with predictive capabilities to anticipate population responses to environmental changes effectively.
Food resource competition between African wild dogs and larger carnivores in an ecosystem with artificial water provision
Authors: Sandoval‐Serés Elisa , Mbizah Moreangels , Phiri Shepherd , Chatikobo Simbarashe Pride , Valeix Marion , van der Meer Esther , Dröge Egil , Madhlamoto Daphine , Madzikanda Hillary , Blinston Peter , Loveridge Andrew J.
Published: March 2024

Predators of similar size often compete over prey. In semi‐arid ecosystems where water is a limiting resource, prey availability can be affected by water distribution, which further increases resource competition and exacerbate conflict among predators. This can have implications for carnivore dietary competition. Hence, we evaluated the dynamics of food resource competition between African wild dogs and four competing predators (cheetahs, leopards, lions and spotted hyaenas) in different seasons and across areas with different waterhole densities in Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe. We used the frequency of occurrence of prey items found in predators' scats to analyse diet composition, overlap and prey preference. For most predators, kudu was most frequently consumed and preferred. Low and medium water‐dependent prey (medium and small‐sized) were mostly consumed by wild dogs, leopards and cheetahs. Wild dog diet overlap was high with all predators, particularly with hyaenas and lions. There were no seasonal differences in the predators diet. The diet overlap of wild dogs with lions was highest in the low waterhole density area, and wild dog diet composition did not differ significantly from the diet of lions and hyaenas. In the low waterhole density area, wild dogs and hyaenas broadened their niche breadth, and predators diet had a higher proportion of low water‐dependent prey. A low density of waterholes increased food resource competition. However, high density of waterholes, where there is more prey availability, can increase the aggregation and density of predators, and hence, increase the risks involved in interspecific competition on wild dogs. To reduce food resource competition on wild dogs, we propose to conserve larger‐bodied prey that are less dependent on water (e.g. kudu, reedbuck, eland and gemsbok). As the use of water pumping is common practice, we propose maintaining water management heterogeneity where prey which is less dependent on water can also thrive.
The condition‐dependence of male genital size and shape
Authors: Pennell Tanya M. , Sharma Manmohan D. , Sutter Andreas , Wilson Drew T. , House Clarissa M. , Hosken David J.
Published: March 2024

The male genitals of internal fertilisers evolve rapidly and divergently, and sexual selection is generally responsible for this. Many sexually selected traits are condition‐dependent—with their expression dependent upon the resources available to be allocated to them—as revealed by genetic or environmental manipulations of condition. However, it is not clear whether male genitals are also condition‐dependent. Here we manipulate condition in two ways (via inbreeding and diet) to test the condition‐dependence of the genital arch ofDrosophila simulans. We found that genital size but not genital shape suffered from inbreeding depression, whereas genital size and shape were affected by dietary manipulation of condition. The differential effects of these treatments likely reflect underlying genetic architecture that has been shaped by past selection: inbreeding depression is only expected when traits have a history of directional selection, while diet impacts traits regardless of historical selection. Nonetheless, our results suggest genitals can be condition‐dependent like other sexually selected traits.
Frogs and flows: Using life‐history traits and a systematic review to establish water‐dependent functional groups for stream frogs in New South Wales, Australia
Authors: Coleman Daniel W. , Wood Rebecca J. , Healey Michael
Published: March 2024

Hydrological alteration has contributed to the global decline of stream frogs. Flows support stream frog reproduction, juvenile development, food resources, and maintain habitats for all life stages. At present, there is a lack of information regarding the specific water requirements necessary for the conservation of stream frogs. To address this gap, we developed a traits‐based approach that serves as a valuable tool for grouping and prioritising water‐dependent stream frog species to inform future research priorities and environmental flow design. In this study, we focussed on 53 Australian frog species and analysed eight species traits to develop water‐dependent functional groups for stream frogs. We classified frogs based on their level of water dependency using an agglomerative hierarchical clustering analysis and a systematic review of water requirements and water management threats. The distinguishing traits that determined functional groups were: tadpole body type, egg clutch type, stream breeding habitat type, and documented association with flowing water and water permanence. Our study identified two distinct water‐dependent groups: facultative stream spawners, capable of reproducing in both stream and non‐stream habitats, and obligate stream spawners, restricted solely to stream habitats. Importantly, we highlight that the obligate stream spawners are the most sensitive group to within‐channel flow alteration and should be prioritised for water management decisions in lotic environments. This study represents the first comprehensive overview of the importance of hydrology for stream frogs and identifies the critical need for additional research and validation to enhance our understanding of stream frog responses to flows regimes.
Exercise positively impacts global longitudinal strain in women at risk of developing cardiovascular disease
Authors: Murray James , Bennett Hunter , Bezak Eva , Perry Rebecca
Published: March 2024

Cardiovascular (CV) disease accounts for one third of deaths in females, with hypertension (HTN) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) risk factors for its development. Global longitudinal strain (GLS) is a strong prognostic indicator for future CV dysfunction and can be impaired in women with HTN and T2DM. This study aimed to determine if exercise impacts GLS in women with HTN or T2DM. A randomized crossover trial was conducted with 15 women (aged 64.1 ± 4.7) diagnosed with HTN (n = 12) or T2DM (n = 3). Participants completed an 8‐week exercise and 8‐week non‐exercising control period, separated by a 21.6 ± 14.2‐week washout period. Resting echocardiography and exercise testing were performed pre and post each arm to measure GLS and aerobic fitness (VO2peak). GLS (%) improved significantly following exercise (−16.8 ± 1.5 to −18.4 ± 1.8; p ≤ 0.001, d = 0.98), but not control (−17.2 ± 2.0 to −16.9 ± 1.4; p = 0.585, d = −0.14). Similarly, VO2peak (mL/kg/min) increased following exercise (18.0 ± 2.1 to 19.2 ± 2.6; p ≤ 0.001, d = 0.53), but not control (17.5 ± 2.7–17.2 ± 2.7; p = 0.269, d = −0.12). There were significant between‐group differences for GLS (p ≤ 0.001, d = 1.02) and VO2peak (p = 0.011, d = 0.63). Aerobic exercise positively impacts GLS and VO2peak in women with HTN and T2DM. GLS may inform exercise professionals regarding the early effectiveness of an aerobic exercise intervention and infer a reduction in CV disease risk.
Validity of Apple Watch, Garmin Forerunner® 935 and GENEActiv for estimating energy expenditure during close quarter battle training in Special Forces soldiers
Authors: Uphill Angela , Kendall Kristina L. , Fogarty Alison , Guppy Stuart , Brown Hannah , Zomer Travis , Parker Simon , Haff G. Gregory
Published: March 2024

The purpose of this study was to investigate the validity of three wrist‐worn devices for estimating energy expenditure (EE) and heart rate (HR) during close “Close Quarter Battle” (CQB). Fifty male soldiers (mean ± SD: age 30.9 ± 4.6 years, height: 1.81 ± 0.64 m and body mass 87.3 ± 7.7 kg) wore three activity monitors (Apple Watch 5, Garmin Forerunner® 935 and GENEActiv accelerometer), a Metamax 3B metabolic cart and a Polar chest strap, whilst conducting a CQB training activity (duration: 26.6 ± 5.0 min). EE and HR data from each test device were compared against criterion measures using ordinary least products regression, 95% limits of agreement, equivalence testing and Mean Absolute Percentage Error (MAPE). Based upon the criterion measure the mean EE for the activity was 372.2 ± 57.6 kcal. All of the devices tested demonstrated fixed and/or proportional bias for EE and a MAPE of >10% (Apple 11.3%, Garmin 15.3%, GENEActiv 57.7%) and therefore did not agree with the criterion. The Apple Watch was a valid method for measuring HR, with a MAPE of 0.6%, and differences with the criterion falling within acceptable limits (≤1 bpm = 83.7%; ≤3 bpm = 97.5% and ≤5 bpm = 97.5%), whereas the Garmin Forerunner® 935 was not valid for measuring HR due to an unacceptable difference compared to the criterion (≤1 bpm = 19.1%; ≤3 bpm = 33.3% and ≤5 bpm = 45.2%). Overall, the Apple Watch 5 can be recommended for measuring HR, but none of the devices are recommended for estimating EE, during CQB.
Does dual‐tasking affect the ability to generate anticipatory postural adjustments in young adults?
Authors: Vazaka Angeliki , Franklin Zoe , Mills Richard
Published: March 2024

The aim of this study was to investigate how additional cognitive tasks (Stroop test and counting backwards task) influence young adults' ability to generate appropriate postural responses while standing on a continuously oscillating platform. Twenty young adults (25.95 ± 2.97 years) stood on a moving platform which was translated in the anterior–posterior direction at three different frequencies (0.10, 0.25 and 0.50 Hz) in three dual‐task conditions (counting backwards task, a Stroop task or no additional cognitive task). Postural muscle onset latencies and tonic activity levels of the leg muscles were measured through surface electromyography; the number of steps taken and cognitive errors made were recorded. Results showed no significant differences in muscle activity between dual and single‐tasking conditions nor between the two dual tasking conditions. Cognitive errors were made in the counting backwards task but not the Stroop task. A frequency effect was identified with participants showing greater tonic activity in rectus femoris (p = 0.012), gastrocnemius medialis (p = 0.016) and bicep femoris (p = 0.043) at 0.5 Hz, as well as earlier muscle activation in tibialis anterior, gastrocnemius medialis and bicep femoris (p < 0.001) at 0.50 Hz. Transition and steady state muscle onset latencies were only significantly different for gastrocnemius medialis at 0.25 Hz (p = 0.001). Dual tasking did not seem to influence anticipatory postural adjustments in young adults; however, perturbation intensities did. The differences observed in the number of cognitive errors made could be indicative of the regional cortical activations and overlapping demand for resources interfering with balance control, though cortical activation was not recorded. Future research should include detailed cognitive behavior, including cortical activations and task reaction times to better understand the allocation of attentional resources during perturbed balance dual tasking.
Effects of 3 days of citrulline malate supplementation on short‐duration repeated sprint running performance in male team sport athletes
Authors: Faria Vinicius S. , Egan Brendan
Published: March 2024

Citrulline malate (CM) is purported to be an ergogenic aid during various types of exercise performance. However, the effects of CM on repeated sprint performance (RSP) are under‐explored. In a placebo‐controlled, double‐blind, counterbalanced cross‐over design, male university‐level team sport athletes (n = 13) performed two familiarization trials, after which CM or placebo (PLA) (8 × 1 g tablets each day) were taken on the 2 days prior to, and with breakfast on the morning of, each main experimental trial. The main experimental trials employed a RSP protocol consisting of 10 repetitions of 40 m maximal shuttle run test (MST) with a 30 s interval between the start of each sprint. Sprint times and heart rate were recorded throughout the MST, and blood lactate concentrations were measured before, immediately after, and 5 min after completing the MST. CM resulted in better RSP compared to PLA, as indicated by a lower sprint performance decrement (Sdec: CM, 4.68% ± 1.82% vs. PLA, 6.10% ± 1.83%; p = 0.03; ES = 0.77), which was possibly influenced by the fastest sprint time being faster in CM (CM, 8.16 ± 0.34 s vs. PLA, 8.29 ± 0.39 s; p = 0.011; ES = 0.34). There were no differences between CM and PLA in average sprint time (p = 0.54), slowest sprint time (p = 0.48), blood lactate concentrations (p = 0.73) or heart rate (p = 0.18), nor was there a condition × time interaction effect across the 10 sprints (p = 0.166). Three days of CM supplementation (8 g daily) attenuated the sprint performance decrement during short‐duration high‐intensity exercise in the form of running RSP in male university‐level team sport athletes.
Photosensitivity and self‐induction in patients aged 50 and older
Authors: van Asch C. J. J. , Spetgens W. P. J. , Bourez‐Swart M. D. , Meppelink A. M. , Deckers C. L. P. , van Blooijs D. , Kasteleijn‐Nolst Trenité D. G. A.
Published: March 2024

Objective

Photosensitivity is known to occur predominantly in children and adolescents and with a clear female predominance. Little is known on the prevalence of photosensitivity in older patients (50+) and its phenotypical appearance.

Methods

A retrospective observational study was performed investigating the prevalence of a photoparoxysmal EEG response (PPR) on at least one EEG during the period 2015–2021. Data were gathered from patients aged 50 years and older by retrieving clinical and EEG characteristics from existing medical records. Data on photosensitivity‐related symptoms in daily life were gathered with telephone interviewing.

Results

In 248 patients a PPR had been elicited, of whom 16 patients (6.5%) were 50 years or older. In older patients, photosensitivity was a persistent feature of childhood‐onset epilepsy (n = 8), of adult‐onset epilepsy (n = 7), or an incidental finding (n = 1). In the 50+ group, 56% of photosensitive patients was female, whereas 72% in the total PPR‐group. In six of 16 older patients, eye closure sensitivity was observed; two of these patients reported self‐induction. Symptoms of photosensitivity in daily life were present in eight out of nine patients who consented in a telephone interview. For seven of these patients, wearing sunglasses was helpful.

Significance

Female preponderance for photosensitivity was not found in epilepsy patients of 50 years and older. In 44% of the older photosensitive patients in this series, the PPR was a feature of adult‐onset epilepsy. Symptoms of photosensitivity in daily life in older patients with epilepsy seem comparable to those in younger patients, and thus worthwhile to diagnose and treat them equally.
Antimicrobial activity of stingless bee honey (Tribe: Meliponini) on clinical and foodborne pathogens: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Cabezas‐Mera Fausto , Cedeño‐Pinargote Ariana C. , Tejera Eduardo , Álvarez‐Suarez José M. , Machado António
Published: March 2024

Honey produced by stingless bees (Tribe: Meliponini) is well‐known for their medicinal and antimicrobial properties from their diverse content of bioactive compounds. However, it has not been possible to fully characterize its active principles. The present systematic review is based on 117 full‐text articles. Our review highlights (1) the need to apply complementary methodologies and consolidate protocols to quantify antimicrobial activity (2) to characterize antimicrobial agents in honeys of Heterotrigona itama, Tetragonisca angustula, and Melipona beecheii, and; (3) to search for compounds against multidrug‐resistant and/or biofilm‐forming pathogens. Moreover, we performed a meta‐analysis of 29 articles with quantitative data using diffusion assays and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC). Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli were the most evaluated pathogens, evidencing 221 and 149 antimicrobial activity assays against honey samples of 36 and 24 stingless bee species, respectively. The highest pooled mean in diffusion assays against S. aureus showed a difference between methicillin‐resistant S. aureus (MRSA) and non‐MRSA strains {14.43 [95% confidence interval (CI): 12.16–16.71] mm vs. 11.55 (95% CI: 10.22–12.87) mm}, whereas E. coli showed pooled means of 9.09 (95% CI: 7.93–10.25) mm. Regarding MIC expressed as volume/volume percentage (%, v/v), the estimated inhibitory concentrations were 7.89 (95% CI: 3.94–11.83) mL/100 mL for MRSA and 5.60 (95% CI: 2.66–8.55) mL/100 mL considering all S. aureus strains. In contrast, the estimated MICs as weight/volume percentage (%, w/v) showed 15.00 [(95% CI: 12.84–17.16) g/100 mL for S. aureus and 16.17 (95% CI: 5.78–26.55) g/100 mL for E. coli. However, honey remains an unexplored source of antimicrobial molecules.
Evaluation of modified atmosphere packaging system developed through breathable technology to extend postharvest life of fresh muscadine berries
Authors: Khalil Uzman , Rajwana Ishtiaq A. , Razzaq Kashif , Singh Shehbaz , Sarkhosh Ali , Brecht Jeffrey K.
Published: March 2024

Muscadine grapes (Vitis rotundifolia Michx.) are delicate in nature with short shelf life. Postharvest technologies like modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) with reduced oxygen (O2) and elevated carbon dioxide (CO2) could increase the postharvest storage life with better quality. In the current experiment, physical and biochemical quality attributes of black and bronze cultivars of muscadine grapes ('Supreme' and 'Granny Val', respectively) were evaluated in active MAP. Fruit were packed in plastic trays, sealed with impermeable film, and CO2 was introduced into the package. The MAP was created by a rigid microperforated plastic patch coated with a proprietary semipermeable resin, which was applied over a hole in the tray; packages with the same size hole without a patch were the control. Fruit were stored at 4°C for 42 days (6 weeks). MAP resulted in significantly lower decay incidence and better retention of fruit firmness for up to 28 days of storage in both cultivars as well as reducing color changes in 'Supreme' fruit. Although MAP did not affect the biochemical quality of muscadine grapes, total antioxidants increased initially and then decreased during storage, irrespective of packaging treatments. A significant linear increase in total phenolic content was also found during storage, regardless of treatments applied. Overall, the results of the current study demonstrate that MAP can be an affective technology to increase storage duration of muscadines with better retention of physical quality, without affecting the biochemical attributes.
Microorganisms in the rumen and intestine of camels have the ability to degrade 2‐amino‐3‐methylimidazo[4, 5‐f]quinoline
Authors: Lin Jialing , Zeng Chuanhui , Li Xueli , Tang Qin , Liao Jing , Jiang Yan , Zeng Xianchun
Published: March 2024

Heterocyclic amines (HAs) are a group of mutagenic and carcinogenic compounds produced from the processing of high‐protein foods, which include 2‐amino‐3‐methylimidazo[4, 5‐f]quinoline (IQ) showing the strongest carcinogenic effect. Camels are able to digest HAs in foods, which provide rich microbial resources for the study. Thus, camel rumen and intestinal microbiota were used to degrade IQ, and the dominant microorganisms and their degradation characteristics were investigated. After three generations of culture with IQ as the sole carbon source, the highest abundance in rumen and intestinal microbes was found in the Proteobacteria phylum. The strains of third generation of the rumen contents were mainly attributed to the genera Brevundimonas and Pseudomonas, and the dominant genera in intestine were Ochrobactrum, Bacillus, and Pseudomonas. Microorganisms were further isolated and purified from the third generation cultures. These 27 strains from the rumen (L1–L27) and 23 strains from the intestine (C1–C23) were obtained. Among them, four strains with the most effective degrading abilities were as follows: L6 (28.55% of IQ degrading rate) and C1 (25.19%) belonged to the genus Ochrobactrum, L15 (23.41%) belonged to the genus Pseudomonas, and C16 (20.89%) were of the genus Bacillus. This study suggested the application of abundant microbial resources from camels' digestive tract to biodegrade foodborne toxins.
Durvalumab in combination with chemoradiotherapy in patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma: Results from the Phase 1 CLOVER study
Authors: Bauman Julie E. , Karam Sana D. , O'Brien Cathy , Mak Gabriel , Cho Byoung Chul
Published: March 2024

Background

The Phase 1 CLOVER study (NCT03509012) assessed durvalumab in combination with concurrent chemoradiotherapy (cCRT) in patients with advanced solid tumors; we report results from the head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) cohort.

Methods

Patients with histologically/cytologically confirmed locally advanced HNSCC, eligible for definitive cCRT and not considered for primary surgery, received durvalumab plus cisplatin and concurrent external beam radiation. Objectives were to assess safety/tolerability and preliminary efficacy.

Results

Eight patients were enrolled. The most frequent any‐cause adverse events (AEs) were nausea and radiation skin injury (each n = 5); most frequent grade 3/4 AEs were lymphopenia and stomatitis (each n = 3). No patients had dose‐limiting toxicities. Objective response rate was 71.4% (5/7 patients; four complete responses, one partial response); disease control rate was 85.7% at 18 weeks and 83.3% at 48 weeks.

Conclusions

Durvalumab plus cCRT was tolerable and active in patients with unresected, locally advanced HNSCC.
RIBM3DU‐Net: Glioma tumour substructures segmentation in magnetic resonance images using residual‐inception block with modified 3D U‐Net architecture
Authors: Shajahan Syedsafi , Pathmanaban Sriramakrishnan , Tiruvenkadam Kalaiselvi
Published: March 2024

Glioma brain tumour is one of the life‐threatening diseases in the world. Tumour substructure segmentation by physicians is a time‐consuming task with the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) technique due to the size of clinical data. An automatic and well‐trained method is essential to detect and segment the tumour which increase the survival of the patients. The proposed work aims to produce high accuracy on glioma substructures segmentation with less computation time using deep learning. From the literature survey, the following challenges are found: (i) computing complex spatial boundaries between normal and tumour tissues, (ii) feature reduction and (iii) overfitting problems. Hence, we proposed a fully automatic glioma tumour segmentation using a residual‐inception block (RIB) with a modified 3D U‐Net (RIBM3DU‐Net). It includes three phases: pre‐processing, modified 3D U‐Net segmentation and post‐processing. From the results, RIB with U‐Net enhances the segmentation accuracy. GPU parallel architecture reduces the computation time while training and testing. For quantitative analysis, comprehensive experiment results were computed and compared with state‐of‐the‐art methods. It achieves better Dice scores on enhancing tumour, tumour core and complete tumour of 87%, 87% and 94%, respectively. GPU speedup folds yield up to 48× when compared with CPU. Quantitatively, 3D glioma volume is rendered from the obtained segmented results and estimated using the Cavalieri estimator.