bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
6‐Shogaol from Dried Ginger Protects against Intestinal Ischemia/Reperfusion by Inhibiting Cell Apoptosis via the BDNF/TrkB/PI3K/AKT Pathway
Authors: Li Bin , Wang Yunxiang , Yuan Xin , Liu Guanting , Diao Yunpeng , Liu Jing
Published: April 2023

Scope

Intestinal ischemia‐reperfusion (II/R) injury is a common pathological process with high morbidity and mortality. Effective prevention and treatment therapies for II/R are clinically necessary. 6‐Shogaol (6‐SG), the main active ingredient in dried ginger, behaviors multiple biological activities, including anti‐inflammation, antioxidation, and anti‐apoptosis. This study aims to elucidate the protective effects and mechanism of 6‐SG against II/R‐induced injury.

Methods and results

Sprague‐Dawley rats are pre‐treated orally with 6‐SG and subjected to II/R injury by clamping superior mesenteric artery for 1 h and reperfusion for 2 h. Caco‐2 cells are challenged by hypoxia/reoxygenation to mimic II/R in vitro. 6‐SG pre‐treatment protects against II/R injury by reducing intestinal morphological damage and intestinal barrier injury via inhibiting cell apoptosis. Network pharmacology and molecular docking analyses reveal that 6‐SG has a high affinity with brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) formed homodimer or heterodimer with NT4 instead of the monomer, and thus the dimer configuration is stabilized, activating BDNF/TrkB/PI3K/AKT signaling pathway and inhibiting II/R‐induced cell apoptosis. The outcome is further validated both in vivo and in vitro.

Conclusion

6‐Shogaol protects against II/R injury by inhibiting cell apoptosis through the BDNF/TrkB/PI3K/AKT pathway. This study offers a new understanding of the protection mechanism of 6‐SG against II/R‐induced injury.
Impact of emission and service constraint for an imperfect production system under two level Hamiltonian
Authors: Das Subhajit , Ali Hachen , Shaikh Ali Akbar , Bhunia Asoke Kumar
Published: May 2023

Considering the impact of emission on environment, over the last few decades, reduction of emission during production process (or emission free production process) appears to be one of the most growing preferences for every manufacturing firm. Again, manufacturing companies of different products are bounded to offer various facilities to their consumers in order to survive in the current highly competitive market situation. Primarily considering these two factors taken in to account, this study addresses an imperfect manufacturing inventory model in which customers' demand increases linearly w. r. to emission reduction level, service level from the manufacturer and decreases nonlinearly w. r. to price of the items. The analytical expressions of production rates, emission levels and service levels are derived by solving a number of optimum control problems using Hamiltonian maximum principle with a values for the business period and selling price. The basic goal is to maximize the average profit of the system. In addition, a number of numerical examples are considered to elaborate four distinct instances involved in the proposed model and these are solved numerically using teaching learning based optimization algorithm. Finally, sensitivity experiment is performed to investigate the influence of various system factors on the best‐found policies. The sensitivity analysis indicates that service rate provided by the manufacturer and selling price of the items impose a huge impact on the average profit of the system. Further, the carbon reduction affects the revenue of the system less significantly.
Genetic Underpinnings and Audiological Characteristics in Children With Unilateral Sensorineural Hearing Loss
Authors: Lee Chen‐Yu , Lin Pei‐Hsuan , Chiang Yu‐Ting , Tsai Cheng‐Yu , Yang Shu‐Yu , Chen You‐Mei , Li Chao‐Hsuan , Lu Chun‐Yi , Liu Tien‐Chen , Hsu Chuan‐Jen , Chen Pei‐Lung , Hsu Jacob Shujui , Wu Chen‐Chi
Published: May 2023

Objective

Unilateral sensorineural hearing loss (USNHL) is a condition commonly encountered in otolaryngology clinics. However, its molecular pathogenesis remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the genetic underpinnings of childhood USNHL and analyze the associated audiological features.

Study Design

Retrospective analysis of a prospectively recruited cohort.

Setting

Tertiary referral center.

Methods

We enrolled 38 children with USNHL between January 1, 2018, and December 31, 2021, and performed physical, audiological, imaging, and congenital cytomegalovirus (cCMV) examinations as well as genetic testing using next‐generation sequencing (NGS) targeting 30 deafness genes. The audiological results were compared across different etiologies.

Results

Causative genetic variants were identified in 8 (21.1%) patients, including 5 with GJB2 variants, 2 with PAX3 variants, and 1 with the EDNRB variant. GJB2 variants were found to be associated with mild‐to‐moderate USNHL in various audiogram configurations, whereas PAX3 and EDNRB variants were associated with profound USNHL in flat audiogram configurations. In addition, whole‐genome sequencing and extended NGS targeting 213 deafness genes were performed in 2 multiplex families compatible with autosomal recessive inheritance; yet no definite causative variants were identified. Cochlear nerve deficiency and cCMV infection were observed in 9 and 2, respectively, patients without definite genetic diagnoses.

Conclusion

Genetic underpinnings can contribute to approximately 20% of childhood USNHL, and different genotypes are associated with various audiological features. These findings highlight the utility of genetic examinations in guiding the diagnosis, counseling, and treatment of USNHL in children.
Auditory and Vestibular Symptom Improvement With Surgery for Superior Canal Dehiscence Syndrome
Authors: Suresh Krish , Garcia Alejandro , Bartholomew Ryan A. , Song Yohan , Lee Daniel J.
Published: May 2023

Objective

(1) To measure the change in auditory and vestibular symptoms following superior canal dehiscence (SCD) surgery, and (2) to determine differences in clinical features and surgical outcomes between superior canal dehiscence syndrome (SCDS) patients with primarily auditory or vestibular complaints.

Study Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting

Single surgeon series at the tertiary academic medical center from 2002 to 2021.

Methods

Retrospective review of SCDS patients who underwent surgical repair. (1) Patients were administered a standardized symptom questionnaire at preoperative and follow‐up visits, and results were compared with paired statistical testing. (2) Patients were divided into 2 cohorts based on either auditory or vestibular chief complaint and differences in demographic, clinical, and outcome variables were examined.

Results

Our study included 113 patients with 118 operated ears. Twenty‐seven patients (24%) had radiographic bilateral dehiscence. 10/11 auditory symptoms (91%) and 5/8 vestibular symptoms (63%) solicited on the questionnaire improved significantly with surgery, except for nonpulsatile tinnitus, sense of imbalance, positional dizziness, and oscillopsia. Analyses stratified by chief complaint (auditory vs vestibular) revealed overall similar characteristics and surgical outcomes. Patients with chief vestibular complaints underwent surgery at an earlier age (45.5 vs 53.9 years, p < 0.05).

Conclusion

SCD surgery alleviates a wide range of auditory and vestibular symptoms. Overall, we did not find significant differences between patients with chief auditory versus vestibular complaints, and both groups benefited from surgery. Symptoms are not directly linked to third‐window physiology and certain vestibular symptoms may be more likely to persist. Bilateral dehiscence may play an important role in persistent symptoms as well.
Effect of alkali treated groundnut shell powder in the basalt fiber reinforced polyethylene hybrid composites: A sustainable approach towards green composites
Authors: Kumar Piyush , Maiti Tushar Kanti , Maurya Atul Kumar , Adwani Priyank
Published: April 2023

With the widespread use of natural polymers in composites, advances in mechanical, thermal, and thermomechanical characteristics have become necessary. This study explores, the hybridizing effect of alkali‐treated groundnut shell powder (T‐GSP) to the basalt fiber (BF) reinforced linear low‐density polyethylene (LLDPE) composites in different weight fractions. Twin screw extrusion machines were used to mix fresh LLDPE matrix with various weight fractions of T‐GSP particles (0, 5, 10, and 15 wt%) and 20 wt% of fresh BF. It has been found to be that adding up to 15 wt% of T‐GSP with 20 wt% of fresh basalt fibers in the LLDPE matrix produced better results in the mechanical, thermal, and thermomechanical properties of the hybrid composites. FE‐SEM analysis was performed on the tensile fracture surfaces of the hybrid composites to determine the effect of the T‐GSP particles on the wettability and interfacial adhesion of the fiber and the LLDPE matrix. Likewise, mechanical properties of 15 wt% of T‐GSP with 20 wt% of BF hybrid composite reported an increment of 76.39% and 397.05% in tensile strength and modulus, 230.88% and 324.70% in flexural strength and modulus. Also, a decrement of 14.32% in impact strength of the hybrid composites was reported compared to fresh LLDPE polymer. Shore D hardness testing recorded a 27% increment in hardness, while TGA and DSC reported a reduction in degradation temperature and an increment in crystallization and melting temperature of the fabricated composites. dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) shows an increment in the glass transition temperature of all the composites.
Daily loneliness and social media use: The role of fear of missing out
Authors: Li Chengjin , Wang Moran , Li Yongjuan , Xu Yaoshan
Published: May 2023

This study explored the effect of daily loneliness on social media use and the mediating role of fear of missing out (FoMO). A total of 106 college students participated in a 2‐week experience sampling study, yielding 1194 data points. The results showed that daily loneliness predicted social media use via FoMO.
Electrospray ionization mass spectrometry adduct formation by mobile phase additives: A case study using nitrile functional groups containing selective androgen receptor modulators
Authors: Karatt Tajudheen Kunhamu , Muhammed Ajeebsanu Meleparappil , Karakka Kal Abdul Khader , Subhahar Michael Benedict , Sathiq Mohamedkhani Anwar , Laya Saraswathy
Published: May 2023

Rationale

The formation of mass adducts is common during electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (ESI‐MS). However, the mechanism that leads to adduct formation is poorly understood and difficult to control. Multiplication of mass adducts at once will adversely impact the sensitivity of mass analysis and cause misinterpretation of the level of detection. Prior studies on selective androgen receptor modulators (SARMs) revealed an immense mass adduct formation in both positive and negative ESI modes.

Methods

In this study, additives in the mobile phases are investigated as a potential means of controlling mass adduct formation in various SARMs.

Results

The first evidence of chloride adduct formation when SARMs are detected via ESI‐MS has been reported in this research. A series of mobile phase combinations were tested to achieve the optimal condition for HPLC–MS. A comparison was also made between adduct formation on various grades of water used for preparing the mobile phase. A validation study using equine urine and plasma was also conducted to assess the suitability of the developed method.

Conclusion

The results of this study will allow for a more accurate identification of SARMs, which will make it easier to investigate their illicit use in horse racing.
Matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry imaging sample preparation using wet‐interface matrix deposition for lipid analysis
Authors: Mielczarek Przemysław , Suder Piotr , Kret Paulina , Słowik Tymoteusz , Gibuła‐Tarłowska Ewa , Kotlińska Jolanta Helena , Kotsan Igor , Bodzon‐Kulakowska Anna
Published: May 2023

Rationale

Sample preparation is one of the most crucial steps for matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry imaging (MALDI‐MSI). Scientists beginning their study with this technique may be overwhelmed by the variety of matrices, solvents, and concentrations; the methods of their applications; and the lack of widely available knowledge of the effect of these parameters on the results. Here we present in depth the aspects of matrix deposition, which will be helpful for the scientific community.

Methods

In this study, we tested several MALDI matrices, such as 2,5‐dihydroxybenzoic acid (DHB), norharmane, N‐(1‐naphthyl)ethylenediamine dihydrochloride (NEDC), and 9‐aminoacridine (9AA), using the SunCollect system: wet‐interface matrix deposition in the context of lipid analysis. We optimized the number of matrix layers and nozzle settings in terms of spectral intensity and the overall quality of the obtained ion maps.

Results

Our research presents the effect of the number of matrix layers and nozzle settings on the results and allows for choosing the optimal parameters for the analyses. In positive ionization mode, DHB matrix could be chosen first. In the negative ionization mode, 1,5‐diaminonaphthalene matrix produces a higher peak intensity in a lower mass range and seems to provide more information than 9AA. We recommend NEDC for particular processes such as glucose analysis. Compared to the remaining matrices, norharmane shows significant changes in the obtained ion maps.

Conclusions

Such a large amount of data allow us to observe an interesting conclusion: the obtained ion image for a particular ion could differ dramatically with a change in the matrix, the solvent composition, or even the number of matrix layers. This must be considered when interpreting the result, impelling us to compare the results obtained with different matrices with caution.
Ecogeomorphic interactions of Russian olives (Elaeagnus angustifolia) and point‐bar morphology along Powder River, Montana, USA
Authors: Moody John A. , Schook Derek M.
Published: April 2023

Point bars are crucial alluvial features that help sustain meandering river ecosystems. They are influenced by interactions among physical processes and biological components, such as riparian vegetation. Understanding the mechanisms underlying these interactions can inform management decisions. The meandering Powder River in southeastern Montana, USA, provides a valuable study system for fluvial interactions because it has no major human alterations. Riparian stands of non‐native Russian olive trees (Elaeagnus angustifolia) became noticeable after  ~50‐year flood in 1978. Fortuitously, 20 channel cross‐sections had been established in 1975 and 1977 and have been surveyed periodically ever since. This temporally extensive dataset was coupled with a spatially extensive dataset of 85 point‐bar cross‐sections derived from high‐resolution LiDAR that enabled evaluation of interactions between Russian olives and point‐bar morphology through time and space. Based on published literature and field observations, we hypothesised that an increase in the width of Russian olive stands would result in (1) a decrease in the overall point‐bar slope, (2) an increase in point‐bar heights and (3) in point‐bar toe‐slopes. The results indicated that point‐bar slopes did decrease with an increase in stand width, supporting the first hypothesis (R2 = 0.87). However, point‐bar heights decreased with an increase in stand width (R2 = 0.63), contradicting the second hypothesis and there was no relation between point‐bar toe‐slopes and stand width (R2 < 0.1). The reverse hypothesis that point‐bar morphology controls Russian olive stand widths makes more biophysical sense. Thus, Russian olive stand width increases as the point‐bar slope and height decrease (R2 = 0.79 and 0.50), which provide a greater area of inundation for colonisation. This study demonstrates that geomorphology is controlling non‐native vegetation colonisation along Powder River, but that the subsequent stabilisation associated with Russian oliveexpansion may in turn upset the critical geomorphic balance between bank erosion and point‐bar aggradation necessary for a stable meandering system.
Surface analysis insight note: Initial, statistical evaluation of X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy images
Authors: Moeini Behnam , Linford Matthew R.
Published: April 2023

With advances in instrumentation and image processing, imaging X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) is becoming increasingly important in surface analysis. In this Insight Note, we suggest the following three steps for the initial evaluation of XPS images: (i) Plot all the data. Possible plots here include an overlay plot, a plot of the average and standard deviation of the spectra, a waterfall plot, and a contour plot. (ii) Examine slices through the data cube at different binding energies, identifying those that show significant contrast. (iii) Examine the spectra, including their average and standard deviation, in defined regions of slices through the data that show contrast. These steps allow XPS images to be probed without the use of more sophisticated exploratory data analysis (EDA) techniques. Indeed, these steps may set the stage for additional EDA analysis of XPS images. Furthermore, they provide an initial understanding of an XPS image that stays close to the original data. Our three‐step protocol was applied to an XPS image of a region of a silicon wafer with different oxide thicknesses. This image primarily contained two types of pixels/regions: one of silicon with a thin oxide layer and the other of silicon with a thicker oxide layer. We emphasize the importance of contour plots of all the data and examining the average and standard deviation of regions of contrast in slices through the data cube.
Dual‐Wave Acoustofluidic Centrifuge for Ultrafast Concentration of Nanoparticles and Extracellular Vesicles
Authors: Dumčius Povilas , Mikhaylov Roman , Zhang Xiaoyan , Bareford Matthew , Stringer Mercedes , Errington Rachel , Sun Chao , Gonzalez Esperanza , Krukovski Tomaš , Falcon‐Perez Juan M , Liang Dongfang , Fu Yong‐Qing , Clayton Aled , Yang Xin
Published: April 2023

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are secreted nanostructures that play various roles in critical cancer processes. They operate as an intercellular communication system, transferring complex sets of biomolecules from cell to cell. The concentration of EVs is difficult to decipher, and there is an unmet technological need for improved (faster, simpler, and gentler) approaches to isolate EVs from complex matrices. Herein, an acoustofluidic concentration of extracellular vesicles (ACEV) is presented, based on a thin‐film printed circuit board with interdigital electrodes mounted on a piezoelectric substrate. An angle of 120° is identified between the electrodes and the reference flat of the piezoelectric substrate for simultaneous generation of Rayleigh and shear horizontal waves. The dual waves create a complex acoustic field in a droplet, resulting in effective concentration of nanoparticles and EVs. The ACEV is able to concentrate 20 nm nanospheres within 105 s and four EV dilutions derived from the human prostate cancer (Du145) cell line in approximately 30 s. Cryo‐electron microscopy confirmed the preservation of EV integrity. The ACEV device holds great potential to revolutionize investigations of EVs. Its faster, simpler, and gentler approach to EV isolation and concentration can save time and effort in phenotypic and functional studies of EVs.
An Overview of Nanoparticle Protein Corona Literature
Authors: Hajipour Mohammad J. , Safavi‐Sohi Reihaneh , Sharifi Shahriar , Mahmoud Nouf , Ashkarran Ali Akbar , Voke Elizabeth , Serpooshan Vahid , Ramezankhani Milad , Milani Abbas S. , Landry Markita P. , Mahmoudi Morteza
Published: April 2023

The protein corona forms spontaneously on nanoparticle surfaces when nanomaterials are introduced into any biological system/fluid. Reliable characterization of the protein corona is, therefore, a vital step in the development of safe and efficient diagnostic and therapeutic nanomedicine products. 2134 published manuscripts on the protein corona are reviewed and a down‐selection of 470 papers spanning 2000–2021, comprising 1702 nanoparticle (NP) systems is analyzed. This analysis reveals: i) most corona studies have been conducted on metal and metal oxide nanoparticles; ii) despite their overwhelming presence in clinical practice, lipid‐based NPs are underrepresented in protein corona research, iii) studies use new methods to improve reliability and reproducibility in protein corona research; iv) studies use more specific protein sources toward personalized medicine; and v) careful characterization of nanoparticles after corona formation is imperative to minimize the role of aggregation and protein contamination on corona outcomes. As nanoparticles used in biomedicine become increasingly prevalent and biochemically complex, the field of protein corona research will need to focus on developing analytical approaches and characterization techniques appropriate for each unique nanoparticle formulation. Achieving such characterization of the nano‐bio interface of nanobiotechnologies will enable more seamless development and safe implementation of nanoparticles in medicine.
Resolving the Contradiction between Efficiency and Transparency of Semitransparent Perovskite Solar Cells by Optimizing Dielectric‐Metal‐Dielectric Transparent Top Electrode
Authors: He Chenyang , Wang Jintao , Chen Shuming , Zhou Yibin , Jiang Ning , Zhang Jian , Duan Yu
Published: April 2023

Semitransparent perovskite solar cells (ST‐PSCs) have recently shown their significance in building‐integrating photovoltaics. Normally, the conductivity and transparency of the top electrode directly affects the properties of the ST‐PSC. The transparency of metal electrodes is extremely sensitive to thickness, but an ultrathin metal film (<10 nm) shows an unexpectedly low conductivity. Herein, a sandwich‐type transparent conductive electrode is designed by combining atomic layer deposition ZnO and thermally evaporated Ag films, and proved that its film conductivity and optical transmittance are superior to metal electrodes with the same thickness. By using an optimized solution‐based thin and continuous CH3NH3PbI3 (MAPbI3) film as the light absorber layer, the ST‐PSCs demonstrate a power conversion effiency of 10% and an average visible transmittance of 19.6%. The results illustrate a strategy of novel structure designs for the electrode to overcome the contradiction between the efficiency and transparency of ST‐PSCs.
1D Continuous Subnanofiltration with Ultrahigh Physical Selectivity for HS− Ion
Authors: Zhang Jingxing , Feng Yancong , Mu Xin , Gan Shenglong , Shi Shenbin , Wu Rundong , Wang Yao , Li Hao , Zhou Guofu
Published: April 2023

In almost all cellular phenomena and life activities, transmembrane exchange of signals and metabolites is indispensable, and heavily dependent on high selectivity of membrane pores and channels. The involved principles of natural selectivity are widely inspired and adopted for future membrane design, but often limited by the geometry of those artificial channels. Herein, a smectic liquid crystal polymeric (SmP) membrane embedded with tubular cut‐through pillar[5]arene dimers (P5Ds) by self‐assembly is first constructed. The physical confinement effect of inner subnanosized P5D cavity enables SmP membrane to behave with 1D continuous hydrogen sulfide ion (HS−) flow and ultrahigh physical selectivity for HS−. The simulated calculations and corresponding energy analyses show that it is essentially attributed to the size of ion–water cluster, not its own size. It is anticipated to provide a highly precise platform for separation and detection of human endogenous hydrogen sulfide as representative biomarker.
Late‐life onset psychotic symptoms and incident cognitive impairment in people without dementia: Modification by genetic risk for Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Creese Byron , Arathimos Ryan , Aarsland Dag , Ballard Clive , Brooker Helen , Hampshire Adam , Corbett Anne , Ismail Zahinoor
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Late‐life onset psychosis is associated with faster progression to dementia in cognitively normal people, but little is known about its relationship with cognitive impairment in advance of dementia.

Methods

Clinical and genetic data from 2750 people ≥50 years of age without dementia were analyzed. Incident cognitive impairment was operationalized using the Informant Questionnaire on Cognitive Decline in the Elderly (IQCODE) and psychosis was rated using the Mild Behavioral Impairment Checklist (henceforth MBI‐psychosis). The whole sample was analyzed before stratification on apolipoprotein E (APOE) ε4 status.

Results

In Cox proportional hazards models, MBI‐psychosis had a higher hazard for cognitive impairment relative to the No Psychosis group (hazard ratio [HR]: 3.6, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.2–6, p < 0.0001). The hazard for MBI‐psychosis was higher in APOE ε4 carriers and there was an interaction between the two (HR for interaction: 3.4, 95% CI: 1.2–9.8, p = 0.02).

Discussion

Psychosis assessment in the MBI framework is associated with incident cognitive impairment in advance of dementia. These symptoms may be particularly important in the context of APOE genotype.
Near‐complete genome of SARS‐CoV‐2 Delta variant of concern identified in a symptomatic dog (Canis lupus familiaris) in Botswana
Authors: Choga Wonderful T. , Letsholo Samantha L. , Marobela‐Raborokgwe Chandapiwa , Gobe Irene , Mazwiduma Mbatshi , Maruapula Dorcas , Rukwava John , Binta Mary Gorettie , Zuze Boitumelo J. L , Koopile Legodile , Seru Kedumetse , Motshosi Patience , Bareng Ontlametse Thato , Radibe Botshelo , Smith‐Lawrence Pamela , Macheke Kutlo , Kuate‐Lere Lesego , Motswaledi Modisa S. , Mbulawa Mpaphi B. , Matshaba Mogomotsi , Masupu Kereng V. , Lockman Shahin , Shapiro Roger , Makhema Joseph , Mosepele Mosepele , Gaseitsiwe Simani , Moyo Sikhulile
Published: April 2023

We sought to investigate whether SARS‐CoV‐2 was present, and to perform full‐length genomic sequencing, in a 5‐year‐old male crossbreed dog from Gaborone, Botswana that presented overt clinical signs (flu‐like symptoms, dry hacking cough and mild dyspnoea). It was only sampled a posteriori, because three adult owners were diagnosed with SARS‐CoV‐2 infection.

Next‐generation sequencing based on Oxford Nanopore Technology (ONT) was performed on amplicons that were generated using a reverse transcriptase real‐time polymerase chain reaction (RT‐qPCR) of confirmed positive SARS‐CoV‐2 nasopharyngeal and buccal swabs, as well as a bronchoalveolar lavage with mean real cycle threshold (qCt) value of 36 based on the Nucleocapsid (N) gene. Descriptive comparisons to known sequences in Botswana and internationally were made using mutation profiling analysis and phylogenetic inferences. Human samples were not available.

A near‐full length SARS‐CoV‐2 genome (∼90% coverage) was successfully genotyped and classified under clade 20 O and Pango‐Lineage AY.43 (Pango v.4.0.6 PLEARN‐v1.3; 2022‐04‐21), which is a sublineage of the Delta variant of concern (VOC) (formerly called B.1.617.2, first detected in India). We did not identify novel mutations that may be used to distinguish SARS‐CoV‐2 isolates from the dog and humans. In addition to Spike (S) region mutation profiling, we performed phylogenetic analysis including 30 Delta sequences publicly available reference also isolated from dogs. In addition, we performed another exploratory analysis to investigate the phylogenetic relatedness of sequence isolated from dog with those from humans in Botswana (n = 1303) as of 31 March 2022 and of same sublineage. Expectedly, the sequence formed a cluster with Delta sublineages – AY.43, AY.116 and B.1.617.2 – circulating in same time frame.

This is the first documented report of human‐associated SARS‐CoV‐2 infection in a dog in Botswana. Although the direction of transmission remains unknown, this study further affirms the need for monitoring pets during different COVID‐19 waves for possible clinically relevant SARS‐CoV‐2 transmissions between species.
We're making a list and we're checking it twice, gonna find out what makes digital forensic examiners suffice
Authors: Morris Sarah , Hadgkiss Melissa , David Anne , Guinness John , Frewin Charles
Published: May 2023

Digital forensic examinations have grown in breadth and depth at a currently unsustainable rate. Digital Investigations now feature in around 90% of criminal cases, demonstrating that digital evidence is crucial to forensic investigations. Due to the high number of cases, most law enforcement units have significant backlogs of devices waiting for analysis. As the field of Digital Investigation has grown, it is no longer solely related to criminal investigations, with the techniques also supporting civil, private, and corporate activities. Given the evident challenges, it is logical that more digital forensic experts are needed to keep pace with the field's complexities and demands. Identifying what characteristics and skills make a digital forensic expert enables an evaluation to ensure that any new staff are fit for purpose. There is a growth in academic, civil, corporate, and intelligence‐based activity within the field. Each area defines their standards, field scope, and expertise level. Still, as any case has the potential to become a matter of criminal investigation, surely the focus needs to be on the standards required to ensure evidence is admissible for that purpose. As expertise levels can vary, it is also necessary to challenge the level at which an expert is defined and the implications of this decision. By identifying what makes an expert in this unique forensic science area, it is possible to explore the potential challenges the field faces in obtaining, retaining, and training staff.

This article is categorized under:

Digital and Multimedia Science > Cybercrime Investigation
Defocusing PTV applied to an open wet clutch: from macro to micro
Authors: Leister Robin , Fuchs Thomas , Kriegseis Jochen
Published: May 2023

Defocusing particle tracking velocimetry (defocusing PTV) is applied in various levels of magnification to investigate the flow in an open wet clutch with radial grooving. The magnifications range from $$M=0.8$$

M
=
0.8

up to $$M=15$$

M
=
15

, whereas the corresponding defocusing sensitivities $$s^{Z}$$

s
Z

, denoting the rate of the particle image diameter change along the optical axis, range from 67.1 to 9.0 µm/pixel. For flows with sub-millimeter structures, as it is the case of this clutch flow application, a high spatial resolution is necessary to fully understand the flow phenomena in these confined geometries. It is demonstrated in this study that all optical configurations can resolve the miniature flow structures that are present in an open wet clutch. Moreover, the $$M=0.8$$

M
=
0.8

set-up, featuring the largest field of view, captures the entire region between the inner and the outer radius of the clutch, providing a comprehensive overview of the three-dimensional clutch flow field, ranging from the smallest structures to the largest. It is found that the $$M=0.8$$

M
=
0.8

set-up also yields the lowest uncertainties in the determination of the particle locations in x, y direction as well as in z direction along the optical axis. The particle image diameter uncertainty is $$2\sigma _{d_{\textrm{i}}}=0.24\,$$

2

σ

d
i

=
0.24

 pixel, which translates (by multiplying the defocusing sensitivity of $$s^{Z}=67.1\,$$

s
Z

=
67.1

 µm/pixel) into a particle z location determination uncertainty of $$2\sigma _{z}=16.1\,$$

2

σ
z

=
16.1

 µm. These results give evidence to the fact that not necessarily the best defocusing sensitivity determines the accuracy of the particle z location estimation; to a great extent the signal-to-noise ratio and the width of the outer ring of the defocused particle image influence the accuracy.

Graphical Abstract
Skeletal and dental age estimation via postmortem computed tomography in Polish subadults group
Authors: Lopatin Oleksiy , Barszcz Marta , Woźniak Krzysztof Jerzy
Published: May 2023

This article is a retrospective analysis of postmortem computed tomography scans of ossification stages of the anterior and posterior intra-occipital sutures, the anterior arch of the atlas, and the neurocentral junction of the axis. We also analyzed the development of secondary ossification centers in the proximal humeral, femoral, and tibial epiphyses, and the distal femoral and tibial epiphyses. Additionally, the development of primary ossification centers in the wrist and metacarpals, and maxillary and mandibular deciduous tooth maturation. A total of 58 cadavers (35 males, 23 females), whose age ranged from 3rd month of pregnancy to 14 years, were analyzed. The results of this study show that analysis of synchondrosis closure, primary, and secondary ossification center development and deciduous tooth changes are a good tool for age estimation in subadults group (fetuses, newborns, infants, and children). The results of the study in a Polish population are consistent with those reported by other authors.
Association between constitution, axiography, orthodontic cast analysis, and upper body posture in women aged 31 to 40 years
Authors: Loewe C. , Pflaum J. , Wanke E. M. , Erbe C. , Holzgreve F. , Groneberg D. A. , Ohlendorf Daniela
Published: May 2023

Objective

Whether it is primarily the spine that reacts with pain to the negative consequences of everyday stress and possibly the temporomandibular system as a result (ascending chain), or whether incorrect stress in the dental area has an influence on body geometry (descending chain), is still a controversially discussed topic. The aim of this study is to investigate possible relationships between constitutional, axiographic, and dental parameters with upper body posture.

Material and methods

A total of 106 subjectively healthy women between 31 and 40 years of age voluntarily participated in this study. Data collection was done by filling out a questionnaire with constitutional and anamnestic parameters and by evaluating orthodontic casts, axiographic measurements, and video raster stereographic measurements. These data were analyzed using correlations and group comparisons, with the significance level set at p ≤ 0.05.

Results

Positive correlations were shown between the constitutional factors of body weight and BMI and the lumbar bending angle (p = 0.01), the kyphosis angle (p = 0.001), and lordosis angle (weight p = 0.05; BMI p = 0.03). In the cast analysis, regardless of the direction of the midline shift (left/right/none), a left lateral tilt can be seen which is greatest at 2.12° with a left midline shift. In addition, the elevated pelvic side correlates with the side of the displacement of the jaw, with the stronger manifestation being on the left side. With a vertical anterior bite in the normal range, the kyphosis angle is 48.09°, while with a deep bite, it is 60.92°, and with an open bite, it is 62.47°; thus, the group in the normal range differs significantly (p = 0.01) from the other two. The greater the protrusion, the smaller the sagittal plane angles (kyphosis angle, lumbar bending angle, each p = 0.03), and the more dorsal the posture (p = 0.04). The lordosis angle differs significantly (p = 0.001) between the group of subjects with a protrusion in the normal range (52.34°) and the group with an increased advancement of the mandible (41.79°).

Conclusion

There is a correlation between body weight, BMI, midline shift, and protrusion, as well as the vertical anterior step and upper body posture in women between 31 and 40 years of age. Interdisciplinary functional examinations of the temporomandibular musculature, and also sustained orthodontic treatment, can contribute to an improvement in upper body posture.
Neuron-specific enolase levels immediately following cardiovascular surgery is modulated by hemolysis due to cardiopulmonary bypass, making it unsuitable as a brain damage biomarker
Authors: Motoyoshi Nobuya , Tsutsui Masahiro , Soman Kouji , Shirasaka Tomonori , Narita Takayuki , Kunioka Shingo , Naya Katsuyuki , Yamazaki Daisuke , Narita Masahiko , Kamiya Hiroyuki
Published: April 2023

Neuron-specific enolase (NSE) is one of the biomarkers used as an indicator of brain disorder, but since it is also found in blood cell components, there is a concern that a spurious increase in NSE may occur after cardiovascular surgery, where cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) causes hemolysis. In the present study, we investigated the relationship between the degree of hemolysis and NSE after cardiovascular surgery and the usefulness of immediate postoperative NSE values in the diagnosis of brain disorder. A retrospective study of 198 patients who underwent surgery with CPB in the period from May 2019 to May 2021 was conducted. Postoperative NSE levels and Free hemoglobin (F-Hb) levels were compared in both groups. In addition, to verify the relationship between hemolysis and NSE, we examined the correlation between F-Hb levels and NSE levels. We also examined whether different surgical procedures could produce an association between hemolysis and NSE. Among 198 patients, 20 had postoperative stroke (Group S) and 178 had no postoperative stroke (Group U). There was no significant difference in postoperative NSE levels and F-Hb levels between Group S and Group U (p = 0.264, p = 0.064 respectively). F-Hb and NSE were weakly correlated (r = 0.29. p < 0.01). In conclusion, NSE level immediately after cardiac surgery with CPB is modified by hemolysis rather than brain injury, therefore it would be unreliable as a biomarker of brain disorder.
Conditional feature importance for mixed data
Authors: Blesch Kristin , Watson David S. , Wright Marvin N.
Published: April 2023

Despite the popularity of feature importance (FI) measures in interpretable machine learning, the statistical adequacy of these methods is rarely discussed. From a statistical perspective, a major distinction is between analysing a variable’s importance before and after adjusting for covariates—i.e., between marginal and conditional measures. Our work draws attention to this rarely acknowledged, yet crucial distinction and showcases its implications. We find that few methods are available for testing conditional FI and practitioners have hitherto been severely restricted in method application due to mismatched data requirements. Most real-world data exhibits complex feature dependencies and incorporates both continuous and categorical features (i.e., mixed data). Both properties are oftentimes neglected by conditional FI measures. To fill this gap, we propose to combine the conditional predictive impact (CPI) framework with sequential knockoff sampling. The CPI enables conditional FI measurement that controls for any feature dependencies by sampling valid knockoffs—hence, generating synthetic data with similar statistical properties—for the data to be analysed. Sequential knockoffs were deliberately designed to handle mixed data and thus allow us to extend the CPI approach to such datasets. We demonstrate through numerous simulations and a real-world example that our proposed workflow controls type I error, achieves high power, and is in-line with results given by other conditional FI measures, whereas marginal FI metrics can result in misleading interpretations. Our findings highlight the necessity of developing statistically adequate, specialized methods for mixed data.
Social science – STEM collaborations in agriculture, food and beyond: an STSFAN manifesto
Authors: Burch Karly , Guthman Julie , Gugganig Mascha , Bronson Kelly , Comi Matt , Legun Katharine , Biltekoff Charlotte , Broad Garrett , Brock Samara , Freidberg Susanne , Baur Patrick , Mincyte Diana
Published: May 2023

Interdisciplinary research needs innovation. As an action-oriented intervention, this Manifesto begins from the authors’ experiences as social scientists working within interdisciplinary science and technology collaborations in agriculture and food. We draw from these experiences to: 1) explain what social scientists contribute to interdisciplinary agri-food tech collaborations; (2) describe barriers to substantive and meaningful collaboration; and (3) propose ways to overcome these barriers. We encourage funding bodies to develop mechanisms that ensure funded projects respect the integrity of social science expertise and incorporate its insights. We also call for the integration of social scientific questions and methods in interdisciplinary projects from the outset, and for a genuine curiosity on the part of STEM and social science researchers alike about the knowledge and skills each of us has to offer. We contend that cultivating such integration and curiosity within interdisciplinary collaborations will make them more enriching for all researchers involved, and more likely to generate socially beneficial outcomes.
Production planning under RTP, TOU and PPA considering a redox flow battery storage system
Authors: Hilbert Markus , Dellnitz Andreas , Kleine Andreas
Published: April 2023

Due to climate change and the increasing scarcity of resources, the sustainability performance of companies is increasingly becoming the focus of science and practice. Consequently, bicriteria energy-efficient production planning under price-dynamic electricity tariffs—e.g., real-time-pricing (RTP) or time-of-use (TOU)—is meanwhile well established, often fathoming the tradeoffs between electricity costs of production and another criterion such as makespan. However, tradeoffs between electricity costs and electricity consumption in general are rarely the focus of such analyses. So-called green power purchase agreements (PPAs), which are becoming increasingly popular in the European business community as a means of improving corporate sustainability performance, are also largely ignored. Thus, for the first time in the scientific literature, we put this type of electricity tariff to the test by analyzing the tradeoffs between electricity costs and electricity consumption in a lot-sizing and scheduling context. Here, we additionally consider a real-world redox flow battery storage system that may be the system of the future, which is also new to the literature on lot-sizing and scheduling. Even more: due to the complex nature of our bicriteria mixed-integer problem, we develop and present suitable heuristics. These include an energy-efficient allocation heuristic in the case of PPA and, among others, a fix-relax-and-optimize heuristic combined with a decomposition approach in the case of RTP and TOU. Ultimately, a scenario analysis demonstrates the performance of these heuristics.
Anonymity in sharing the revenues from broadcasting sports leagues
Authors: Bergantiños G. , Moreno-Ternero Juan D.
Published: May 2023

We study the problem of sharing the revenues from broadcasting sports leagues axiomatically. Our key axiom is anonymity, the classical impartiality axiom. Other impartiality axioms already studied in broadcasting problems are equal treatment of equals, weak equal treatment of equals and symmetry. We study the relationship between all impartiality axioms. Besides we combine anonymity with other axioms that have been considered in the literature. Some combinations give rise to new characterizations of well-known rules. The family of generalized split rules is characterized with anonymity, additivity and null team. The concede-and-divide rule is characterized with anonymity, additivity and essential team. Other and combinations characterize new rules that had not been considered before. We provide three characterizations in which three axioms are the same (anonymity, additivity, and order preservation) and the fourth one is different (maximum aspirations, weak upper bound, and non-negativity). Depending on the fourth axiom we obtain three different families of rules. In all of them concede-and-divide plays a central role.
The impact of race and age on response to neoadjuvant therapy and long-term outcomes in Black and White women with early-stage breast cancer
Authors: Terman Elizabeth , Sheade Jori , Zhao Fangyuan , Howard Frederick M. , Jaskowiak Nora , Tseng Jennifer , Chen Nan , Hahn Olwen , Fleming Gini , Huo Dezheng , Nanda Rita
Published: April 2023

Purpose

There are a paucity of data and a pressing need to evaluate response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) and determine long-term outcomes in young Black women with early-stage breast cancer (EBC).

Methods

We analyzed data from 2196 Black and White women with EBC treated at the University of Chicago over the last 2 decades. Patients were divided into groups based on race and age at diagnosis: Black women $$\le$$
≤
40 years, White women $$\le$$
≤
40 years, Black women $$\ge$$
≥
55 years, and White women $$\ge$$
≥
55 years. Pathological complete response rate (pCR) was analyzed using logistic regression. Overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) were analyzed using Cox proportional hazard and piecewise Cox models.

Results

Young Black women had the highest risk of recurrence, which was 22% higher than young White women (p = 0.434) and 76% higher than older Black women (p = 0.008). These age/racial differences in recurrence rates were not statistically significant after adjusting for subtype, stage, and grade. In terms of OS, older Black women had the worst outcome. In the 397 women receiving NACT, 47.5% of young White women achieved pCR, compared to 26.8% of young Black women (p = 0.012).

Conclusions

Black women with EBC had significantly worse outcomes compared to White women in our cohort study. There is an urgent need to understand the disparities in outcomes between Black and White breast cancer patients, particularly in young women where the disparity in outcome is the greatest.
How can technology leverage university teaching & learning innovation? A longitudinal case study of diffusion of technology innovation from the knowledge creation perspective
Authors: Zhang Xiaolei , Chen Shuangye , Wang Xiaoxiao
Published: April 2023

This paper expands the innovation diffusion framework by adding a conceptual and empirical exploration of knowledge creation into understanding university technology-enhanced teaching and learning innovation. Institutional innovation research has largely focused on people and products while neglecting the underlying knowledge creation process for innovation that substantiates and sustains the diffusion of innovation across stages. Guided by a combined framework of organisational knowledge creation theory with the diffusion of technology-enhanced teaching & learning (T&L) innovation, this 4-year longitudinal qualitative study focused on a Chinese case of Tsinghua University, which has pioneered the adoption of digital teaching and learning, and generating exemplary sustainable whole-institutional teaching and learning innovation. We explored how technology leverages the interactions between technologies, adopters, and leadership within a university to build capacities for digital T&L innovation by tracing the technology innovation trajectory of Tsinghua University. The case study identified four stages of knowledge creation related to technology adoption and innovation. Of these stages, knowledge externalisation processes were found to be critical for leveraging the co-creation of knowledge for institutional innovation in the university context. Additionally, the study showed that the middle-up-down leadership strategy and middle managements’ knowledge management ability facilitated the sustainable transition from individual and group exploration to organisational innovation. The implications for strategic technology adoption and sustainable teaching and learning innovation in the university contexts are also discussed.