bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Revisiting HISTALP precipitation dataset
Authors: Chimani Barbara , Bochníček Oliver , Brunetti Michele , Ganekind Manfred , Holec Juraj , Izsák Beatrix , Lakatos Mónika , Tadić Melita Perčec , Manara Veronica , Maugeri Maurizio , Šťastný Pavel , Szentes Olivér , Zardi Dino
Published: November 2023

The article presents a recent update of a comprehensive dataset of long‐term series of precipitation data from instrumental observations in the Greater Alpine Region (GAR), that is, the region of Europe including the Alpine mountain range and their nearer surroundings (4°–19° E in longitude and 43°–49° N in latitude). A comparison to different national homogenized datasets is also presented. Results show that in the national homogenized datasets more breaks have been detected due to higher station density. They also demonstrate the necessity of constant exchange with data providers. The resulting trends in all datasets are mainly weak and only a minority of them is statistically significant. In most cases the similarity of statistical index numbers are promising, with, for example, small RMSE between the presented new HISTALP homogenization and the time series of the national homogenized datasets. Nevertheless, for some stations higher differences occur and break signals are not what would be expected due to possible causes in the station history. The differences between the national and the HISTALP new homogenization—due to, for example, different methods used, different points in time when the homogenization took place, different options of data handling (combination of station data, gap filling routines, …) and different reference stations—illustrate the inherent uncertainty unavoidably associated to homogenization and point out the need of careful communication and use of the data. On the other hand, the results highlight the advantage of consistently homogenized datasets, versus the risks associated with mixing results from different homogenizations.
Climate, trends and variability of extreme winds along the southwest coast of India
Authors: Abdulla Cheriyeri Poyil , Aboobacker Valliyil Mohammed , Vethamony Ponnumony
Published: November 2023

The extreme wind climate and its trends and variability of the southwest coast of India, particularly the Kerala coast, are investigated using hourly reanalysis wind speeds for the period 1979–2021. The observed maximum wind speed and 99th percentile wind speed off Kerala coast are 21.0 and 11.3 m·s−1, respectively. The predominant direction of high wind speeds is in the SW–WNW sector, which accounts for 93.5% of the total high winds. Extreme wind speeds in this region are not due to tropical cyclones alone, but also due to seasonal high winds. Seasonally, the premonsoon and SW monsoon extreme winds are predominantly in the WSW–WNW directional sector, while postmonsoon strong winds are present in all directional sectors, but predominantly in the SSW–WNW sector, followed by the E–SSE sector. The 99th percentile wind speeds during premonsoon, SW monsoon and postmonsoon are 8.8, 12.3 and 8.9 m·s−1, respectively. A significant decreasing trend is observed in the 99th percentile wind speeds during 1979–2021, ranging from 3 to 6 cm·s−1·year−1 off Kerala coast. This is in contrast with global increasing extreme wind speeds, and it can be attributed to regional variability as well as weakening of the land–sea thermal gradients associated with rising surface temperature in the Arabian Sea in the light of global warming. In addition to the long‐term declining trend and monthly as well as seasonal features, distinct interannual variations are also noticed in the 99th percentile wind speeds. Analysis shows that the atmospheric teleconnections associated with El Niño–La Niña events and Indian Ocean Dipole have an important role in the variability of extreme wind speeds. The co‐occurrence of positive (negative) IOD with El Niño (La Niña) results in a sharp decline (increase) in extreme wind speeds. Significant decadal variations are also noticed in the 99th percentile wind speeds.
Silicon nutrition improves the quality and yield of rice under dry cultivation
Authors: Jiang Hao , Xu Xiaotian , Sun Anran , Bai Chenyang , Li Yunzhe , Nuo Min , Shen Xinru , Li Wanchun , Wang Dongchao , Tian Ping , Wei Xiaoshuang , Wang Guan , Yang Meiying , Wu Zhihai
Published: November 2023

BACKGROUND

Dry cultivation of rice is a water‐saving, emission reduction and labor‐saving rice farming method. However, the development of rice under dry cultivation is hampered by the limitations of dry cultivation on rice yield and rice quality. We hypothesized that additional silicon (Si) would be a measure to address these limitations or challenges.

RESULTS

In the present study, we set up field trials with three treatments: flooded cultivation (W), dry cultivation (D) and dry cultivation plus Si. Yield and quality were reduced under D treatment compared to W treatment. The addition of Si promoted root development, increased plant height and leaf area, increased photosynthetic enzyme activity, net photosynthetic rate and SPAD values, and increased biomass under dry crop conditions. Under the drought conditions, silica up‐regulated the expression of AGPSI, SBEI, SBEIIb, SSI and SSII‐1 genes and the activities of ADP‐glucose pyrophosphorylase (AGPase), soluble starch synthetase (SSS) and starch branching enzyme (SBE) enzymes, which reduced protein, amylose, chalkiness percentage and chalkiness degree, increased brown rice rate, milled rice rate and head milled rice rate, and also improved rice quality. In addition, the increase of AGPase, SSS and SBE enzyme activities promoted the filling rate and the number of spikes was guaranteed, whereas the yield was improved by promoting the seed setting rate and 1000‐grain weight.

CONCLUSION

The results of the present study indicate that adding appropriate amounts of Si fertilizer can improve the yield and quality of rice under dry cultivation by regulating source supply capacity and grain starch synthesis. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Examining intellectual capital and knowledge absorptive capacity for high innovative performance
Authors: Ahmed Syed Saad , Guozhu Jia , Khan Muhammad Mumtaz
Published: November 2023

In the contemporaneous business environment, intangible assets and capabilities are building blocks of an organization's innovative performance. Despite the rising importance of absorptive capacity in knowledge management and innovation literature, there has been limited focus on its dimensions, such as knowledge acquisition, assimilation, and transformation, particularly in relation to intellectual capital (IC) and innovative performance. This research unravels the mediating role played by the dimensions of absorptive capacity in connecting IC to innovative performance. This research offers a novel combination of individual mediation effects of absorptive capacity components on the relationship between IC and innovative performance. Data for this cross‐sectional research were gathered from 295 organizations through a Likert scale questionnaire. This research employs partial least square‐structural equation modeling to analyze the individual mediating pathways of absorptive capacity. This study shows that knowledge acquisition adversely influences the relationship between IC and innovative performance, which challenges conventional wisdom. Conversely, all other mediation paths, including knowledge assimilation, transformation, and exploitation, exhibit a positive influence on innovative performance. Furthermore, this study also offers valuable managerial implications and suggests potential areas for future research.
Primary Total Laryngectomy for Endolaryngeal cT3‐4M0 Squamous Cell Carcinoma: A STROBE Analysis
Authors: Laccourreye Ollivier , Garcia Dominique , Haroun Fabienne , Nguyen Dac H. , Giraud Philippe , Mirghani Haitham
Published: November 2023

Objectives

To document 10‐year oncologic outcome of primary total laryngectomy (TL) for patients with cT3‐4M0 endolaryngeal squamous cell carcinoma (SCC).

Study Design

Observational inception cohort of 531 patients with isolated untreated endolaryngeal cT3‐4M0 SCC review over 40 years using STROBE guideline. 94% of patients were followed until death or for a minimum of 10 years.

Setting

Academic tertiary referral care center.

Methods

All patients underwent primary TL. Prior tracheotomy, induction chemotherapy, thyroid gland resection, level II‐IV neck dissection, level VI dissection, and postoperative radiation therapy were associated in 6%, 40%, 43%, 89%, 47%, and 74% of cases, respectively: The main objective was to determine the 10‐year actuarial local control estimate. Accessory objectives comprised screening for clinical variables increasing the risk of local recurrence, and analysis of long‐term oncologic consequences of local recurrence.

Results

The 10‐year actuarial local control estimate was 89.7%. Local recurrence was salvaged in 11% of cases, resulting in 92% overall local control. On multivariate analysis, none of the study variables correlated with local recurrence. Local recurrence resulted in significantly reduced nodal control, distant metastasis control, and survival. Postoperative complications, persistent index SCC, intercurrent disease, and metachronous second primary cancer accounted for respectively 3%, 37%, 33%, and 28% of the 334 deaths noted during the 10 years following TL.

Conclusion

The present study underscored the long‐term oncologic efficacy of primary TL, the dangers of local recurrence, the key role of local control for survival, and the importance of a long‐term oncologic watch policy.

Level of Evidence

3 Laryngoscope, 134:2288–2294, 2024
Design of Copolymer‐Based Blend Compatibilizers for Mixed Plastic Recycling
Authors: Qian Jin , Dunn Carmen B. , Qiang Zhe
Published: November 2023

Mixed plastic waste recycling represents a significant challenge as the phase separation of different components dictates downgraded performance. Polymer‐based compatibilizers can offer a promising solution to address this issue, through effectively reducing surface tension and increasing interfacial strength between distinct components to result in improved mechanical and thermal properties of recycled products. This perspective provides an overview of the fundamental concepts for the rational design of copolymer blend compatibilizers and discusses their recent advances, including both preformed and in situ generated systems. Impacts of key material parameters of compatibilizers, such as chain topology, chemical composition, and block sequence on their performance of remediating mixed plastics are discussed. Additionally, reactive compatibilization strategies are also introduced, including in situ formation of polymers, installing functional groups on mixed plastics, and employing dual compatibilization strategies. Looking forward, there are many research and technology opportunities in this area, especially for enabling the use of blend compatibilizers to practically address mixed plastic wastes at scale. Specifically, future compatibilizer design and application should provide strong competitiveness in both cost and energy savings, and carbon emission reduction. Together, the development of blend compatibilizers is an important step in establishing plastic circular economy and creating a more sustainable future.
Mechanism of synergistic inhibitory effect of benzyl isothiocyanate and zoledronic acid combination on breast cancer induction of osteoclast differentiation
Authors: Hahm Eun‐Ryeong , Kim Su‐Hyeong , Pore Subrata K. , Mathan Sivapar V. , Singh Rana P. , Singh Shivendra V.
Published: November 2023

Bone is the most favored site for metastasis for each major subtype of breast cancer. Therapeutic modalities for alleviation of clinical symptoms associated with bone metastasis include surgical resection, radiation, and bone‐targeted therapies, including bisphosphonates (e.g., zoledronic acid; ZA) and a humanized antibody against receptor activator of nuclear factor‐κB ligand (denosumab). However, the bone‐targeted therapies are expensive, and have poor pharmacokinetic attributes and/or serious adverse effects. Therefore, novel strategies are needed for treatment of bone metastasis or to increase effectiveness of existing bone‐targeted therapies. We have shown previously that benzyl isothiocyanate (BITC) is a novel inhibitor of osteoclast differentiation in vitro and bone metastasis in vivo. The present study shows that BITC + ZA combination synergistically inhibits osteoclast differentiation induced by addition of conditioned media from breast cancer cells. These effects were associated with a significant increase in levels of several antiosteoclastogenic cytokines, including interferons, interleukin (IL)‐3, IL‐4, and IL‐27. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway analysis of RNA‐seq data from BITC and/or ZA‐treated cells revealed downregulation of genes of many pathways (e.g., actin cytoskeleton, Hippo signaling, etc.) by treatment with BITC + ZA combination, but not by BITC alone or ZA alone. Confocal microscopy confirmed severe disruption of actin cytoskeleton upon treatment of MCF‐7 and MDA‐MB‐231 cells with the BITC + ZA combination. This combination also decreased the nuclear level of yes‐associated protein, a core component of Hippo signaling. In conclusion, the present study offers a novel combination for prevention or treatment of bone metastasis of breast cancer.
CDC report examines increasing mental health crisis among health workers
Authors: Canady Valerie A.
Published: November 2023

Health care workers are feeling fatigue, loss, and grief at levels higher than they had before the pandemic, according to a stark new “Vital Signs” report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), which found that poor mental health symptoms increased more for health workers in the pandemic than for other groups of workers in the same period.
Results on Ulam‐type stability of linear differential equation with integral transform
Authors: Selvam Arunachalam , Sabarinathan Sriramulu , Sooppy Nisar Kottakkaran , Ravichandran Chokkalingam , Senthil Kumar Beri Venkatachalapathy
Published: November 2023

The main theme of this study is to implement the Sumudu integral transform technique to solve the stability problem of linear differential equations. Another important aspect of this paper is to investigate the Ulam–Hyers and Ulam–Hyers–JRassias stability of linear differential equations by using Sumudu transform method. Further, the results are extended to the Mittag‐Leffler–Ulam–Hyers and Mittag‐Leffler–Ulam–Hyers–JRassias stability of these differential equations. As an application point of view, the Sumudu transform is used to find Ulam stabilities of differential equations arising in field‐controlled DC servo motor with position control.
Coupled system of nonlinear viscoelastic plate equations of (p(x),q(x))‐Kirchhoff‐type: Global existence, general decay, and blow‐up
Authors: Shahrouzi Mohammad , Ferreira Jorge , Tahamtani Faramarz
Published: November 2023

This work studies the global behavior of solutions for a system of
‐Kirchhoff‐type equations. We prove the global existence of solutions, and next, by constructing suitable auxiliary functionals, the general decay of solutions has been confirmed when the exponents satisfy appropriate conditions. Also, under suitable conditions on data, we establish the finite time blow‐up of solutions with negative initial energy. Our results extend and improve many earlier results in the literature.
Multibeam digital metasurface reflectarray antenna for 5G millimeter wave applications
Authors: Bashir Gazali , Singh Amit K. , Dubey Ankit
Published: November 2023

A phase‐graded multibeam high gain digital metasurface reflector array (DMSRA) antenna for 5G millimeter wave communication is proposed in this letter. The DMSRA unit‐cell element is composed of a dipole loaded with endstubs. The variation of load across the diploe manipulates the reflection phase response of the incoming electromagnetic wave. A discretized phase state of 0° and 180° is obtained for an optimized loaded dipole. The phase states mimic the binary meta bit‐0 and meta bit‐1. The metabits are distributed along the reflecting surface using a digital coding sequence to form multiple beams in the desired direction. A coding sequence of 010101… is employed to design a two‐dimensional phase‐graded metasurface to generate a four‐beam radiation pattern. The designed digital metasurface reflectarray antenna of dimensions is fabricated and measured to validate the performance. The DMSRA is excited by an antipodal Vivaldi antenna positioned at an optimized focal point of 28 mm. The measured results show a four‐beam radiation pattern obtained over the frequency range of 27.5–28.5 GHz along azimuthal and elevation planes, with a peak beam gain of 10.5 dBi at 28 GHz.
Bringing physics into the coarse‐grid selection: Approximate diffusion distance/effective resistance measures for network analysis and algebraic multigrid for graph Laplacians and systems of elliptic partial differential equations
Authors: Lee Barry
Published: November 2023

In a recent paper, the author examined a correlation affinity measure for selecting the coarse degrees of freedom (CDOFs) or coarse nodes (C nodes) in systems of elliptic partial differential equations (PDEs). This measure was applied to a set of relaxed vectors, which exposed the near‐nullspace components of the PDE operator. Selecting the CDOFs using this affinity measure and constructing the interpolation operators using a least‐squares procedure, an algebraic multigrid (AMG) method was developed. However, there are several noted issues with this AMG solver. First, to capture strong anisotropies, a large number of test vectors may be needed; and second, the solver's performance can be sensitive to the initial set of random test vectors. Both issues reflect the sensitive statistical nature of the measure. In this article, we derive several other statistical measures that ameliorate these issues and lead to better AMG performance. These measures are related to a Markov process, which the PDE itself may model. Specifically, the measures are based on the diffusion distance/effective resistance for such process, and hence, these measures incorporate physics into the CDOF selection. Moreover, because the diffusion distance/effective resistance can be used to analyze graph networks, these measures also provide a very economical scheme for analyzing large‐scale networks. In this article, the derivations of these measures are given, and numerical experiments for analyzing networks and for AMG performance on weighted‐graph Laplacians and systems of elliptic boundary‐value problems are presented.
Experimental validation study on snap through and coiling up of deployable composite shells
Authors: Chang Zhongliang , Zhao Peng , Wu Chenchen , Zou Guangping , Zhang Zhijun
Published: November 2023

Bistable reeled composite shells (BRCS) have been widely used in deployable space structures due to advanced properties of light weight and large volume reduction. A finite element simulation and experimental validation to study the transition of BRCS between their two stable states are performed. In this article, multiscale representative volume element (RVE) modeling is used to compute the equivalent mechanical properties of carbon/epoxy plain woven fabrics that were utilized to construct the deployable composite laminates, followed by experimental verification. The deformation characteristics and strain energy distribution of the deployable composite shell (DCS) during snap through and coiling up are investigated using finite element analysis (FEA) and verified by strain‐gauge and digital image correlation (DIC) tests. The results show that the strain energy distribution in the snap through and coiling up of the carbon/epoxy plain woven BRCS with laminate stacking sequence of [+45/−45] is approximately symmetric. Additionally, an offset phenomena is observed during the coiling up of the BRCS in the finite element modeling. A parametric analysis is complemented to investigate effects of fiber angles on the deformation characteristics and strain energy distribution of the shell structures during snap through and coiling up.

Highlights

Shell deformation during snap through and coiling up was investigated.

DIC test was performed to capture the shell deformation.

Strain energy distribution of the deployable composite shell was discussed.

Offset phenomena are observed during the coiling up.
Investigation on using graphite filler for 3D printing of flexible electrically conductive polymer by extrusion‐based additive manufacturing
Authors: Bajpai Arpit , Jain Prashant Kumar
Published: November 2023

The rapid use of additive manufacturing (AM) in electronic industry identifies the need of flexible electrically conductive materials suitable for 3D printing. Challenges like buckling of flexible filament and complexity in addition of conductive fillers makes pellet‐based extrusion the most suitable alternative for part printing. In the present work, graphite powder is combined with ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) to print flexible electrically conductive parts. EVA graphite composite with filler loading up to 30% has been investigated for its electrical conductivity and part printability. The composite made was found electrically conductive and suitable for part printing. The parts were printed on a CNC milling machine by using a retrofitted material extrusion tool with nozzle of 0.4 mm diameter and temperature range of 130–140°C. Parts were printed on a detchable heating bed placed on the milling machine setup. Samples of EVA with graphite filler by weight of 5%, 10%, 20%, and 30% were printed and were checked for electrical conductivity. When the filler content was increased from 10% to 20%, the electrical resistance of the composite was reduced by 62.6%. The presence and uniform dispersion of graphite flakes in the polymer matrix of EVA were guaranteed by the rheological and morphological characterization of the composite. Applications of 3D printable flexible electrically conductive parts lies in numerous domains including biosensors, wearable health monitoring devices, capacitors, field effective transistors, light emitting diodes, solar cells, and electronic displays.

Highlights

CNC milling machine‐assisted 3D printing is used for part printing.

Graphite powder is combined with EVA pellets.

Pellet‐based extrusion is used to print flexible parts.

3D printability of parts with resistivity 32.64 Ω‐cm was achieved.
Efficacy of plyometric exercises on upper extremity function, selective motor control and hand grip strength in children with unilateral cerebral palsy: A randomized controlled study
Authors: Abd‐elmonem Amira M. , Ali Hazem A. , Saad‐eldien Sara S. , El‐nabie Walaa A. Abd
Published: November 2023

Background

Impairment in unimanual upper limb function is frequent among children with unilateral cerebral palsy (UCP), which affects their ability to perform functional activities.

Aim

To assess the efficacy of plyometric exercises on the function of upper extremity, selective motor control (SMC) and hand grip strength (HGS) in children with UCP.

Design

This was a double‐masked, randomized, controlled clinical trial.

Setting

Outpatient Clinics of Faculty of Physical Therapy, Cairo University and Center for Physical Medicine, Rehabilitation and Rheumatology, Al‐Agouza Hospital, Giza, Egypt.

Population

Forty children with UCP, ranging in age from 8 to 12 years, were randomly allocated to two groups equal in numbers.

Method

Children were allocated to receive conventional therapy (CONV‐group; n = 20) or plyometric exercises (PLYO‐group; n = 20) for 45 min. In addition, children of both groups received selected physical and occupational therapy programs (each lasted for 30 min) twice a week over 3‐month. The intervention was delivered on non‐consecutive days. Upper extremity function, SMC and HGS were assessed by using quality of upper extremity skills test (QUEST), Test of arm selective control and pneumatic squeeze bulb dynamometer, respectively.

Results

Overall, 35 children (18 in the CONV‐group, 17 in the PLYO‐group) completed data collection and treatment. With‐in group comparison showed significant improvement in the study groups while post‐treatment comparisons revealed a significant difference from mean difference in upper extremity function is 9.55 (8.71:10.39), SMC is 2.12 (1.51:2.72) and HGS is 2.91 (2.13:3.68) (p < 0.05; 95% Confidence interval) in favor of the PLYO‐group.

Conclusions

Plyometric exercises have the capability to enhance upper extremity function and strength in children with UCP.
Critical assessment of methods of protein structure prediction (CASP)—Round XV
Authors: Kryshtafovych Andriy , Schwede Torsten , Topf Maya , Fidelis Krzysztof , Moult John
Published: November 2023

Computing protein structure from amino acid sequence information has been a long‐standing grand challenge. Critical assessment of structure prediction (CASP) conducts community experiments aimed at advancing solutions to this and related problems. Experiments are conducted every 2 years. The 2020 experiment (CASP14) saw major progress, with the second generation of deep learning methods delivering accuracy comparable with experiment for many single proteins. There is an expectation that these methods will have much wider application in computational structural biology. Here we summarize results from the most recent experiment, CASP15, in 2022, with an emphasis on new deep learning‐driven progress. Other papers in this special issue of proteins provide more detailed analysis. For single protein structures, the AlphaFold2 deep learning method is still superior to other approaches, but there are two points of note. First, although AlphaFold2 was the core of all the most successful methods, there was a wide variety of implementation and combination with other methods. Second, using the standard AlphaFold2 protocol and default parameters only produces the highest quality result for about two thirds of the targets, and more extensive sampling is required for the others. The major advance in this CASP is the enormous increase in the accuracy of computed protein complexes, achieved by the use of deep learning methods, although overall these do not fully match the performance for single proteins. Here too, AlphaFold2 based method perform best, and again more extensive sampling than the defaults is often required. Also of note are the encouraging early results on the use of deep learning to compute ensembles of macromolecular structures. Critically for the usability of computed structures, for both single proteins and protein complexes, deep learning derived estimates of both local and global accuracy are of high quality, however the estimates in interface regions are slightly less reliable. CASP15 also included computation of RNA structures for the first time. Here, the classical approaches produced better agreement with experiment than the new deep learning ones, and accuracy is limited. Also, for the first time, CASP included the computation of protein–ligand complexes, an area of special interest for drug design. Here too, classical methods were still superior to deep learning ones. Many new approaches were discussed at the CASP conference, and it is clear methods will continue to advance.
Characteristics of Ultrathin Indium Oxide Thin‐Film Transistors with Diverse Channel Lengths Fabricated by Atomic Layer Deposition
Authors: Lee Ju-Hun , Kang Seung-Youl , Yang Jong-Heon , Pi Jae-Eun , Hwang Chi-Sun , Moon Jaehyun
Published: November 2023

The oxide thin‐film transistors (TFTs) with ultrathin (5 nm) crystalline In2O3 channels formed by an atomic layer deposition method are fabricated. The ultrathin In2O3 films are formed at a deposition temperature of 300 °C using (3‐(dimethylamino)propyl)dimethylindium as the indium precursor and ozone as the oxidizing agent. The postannealing is performed in an oxygen atmosphere for 2 h at 300 °C. The scaling behavior of the field‐effect mobility (μFE) is investigated as a function of the channel length (Lch). As Lch increases from 5 to 160 μm, the average μFE is measured and found to increase from 20.2 to 33.6 cm2 V−1 s−1. It shows the average device properties of subthreshold swing of 0.32 V dec−1, turn‐on voltage of −5.5 V, and on/off current ratio of 107. To understand this trend, the transmission line model is utilized to extract the resistance components present across the channel quantitatively. The analyses reveal that among the components comprising the total resistance, the fraction of Rc increases as Lch becomes shorter. Thus, Rc emerges as a dominant parameter that determines μFE. In this regard, the results have technical significance in vertical TFTs and high‐resolution applications in which predictable scaling matters.
Solvent Impact on Langmuir and Langmuir–Schaefer Films of Soluble Main‐Chain Poly(fullerene)s Based on C60
Authors: de Lima Citolino Lucas Vinicius , Santos Silva Hugo , Silva Agostini Deuber Lincon , Hiorns Roger Clive , Bégué Didier , de Almeida Olivati Clarissa
Published: November 2023

Understanding the morphology and electronic properties of poly(fullerene)s is crucial for the development of new organic devices. This work addresses the fabrication and characterization of Langmuir–Schaefer (LS) films of poly(fullerene)s based on C60 with short (HSS8) and long (HSS16) sidechains, solubilized in chloroform or xylene. In addition, density functional theory (DFT) calculations are used to optimize the molecular geometries, determine energies, and investigate the influence of solvent applied. Depending on the organic solvent, floating material isotherms indicate the formation of disordered aggregates in the aqueous subphase. The influence of solvent in LS films is also evidenced by way of atomic force microscopy (AFM), UV‐vis, and cyclic voltammetry (CV) measurements. From DFT calculations, the arms of the poly(fullerene)s start to extend from an initial position of surrounding the fullerene sphere. In AFM measurements, depending on the organic solvent, the roughness significantly reduces, while the homogeneity is much higher. In UV‐vis and CV measurements, the propensity to form aggregates depends mainly on the polarization of the solvent and is directly related to the maximum absorption, oxidation, and reduction peaks. From the optical bandgap energy values, the poly(fullerene)s studied here present high potential for application in organic electronic devices.
Molecular insights into the salt stress response of Pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum): Pathways, differentially expressed genes and transcription factors
Authors: Dhawi Faten
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum) plays a crucial role as a cereal crop in arid and semi‐arid regions, where it confronts the formidable challenge of salt stress.

Materials and Methods

To unravel the underlying molecular mechanisms that underpin its salt stress resilience, we subjected 14‐day‐old seedlings to three distinct groups: Control, 75 mM NaCl and 150 mM NaCl. These pots received daily irrigation with their respective treatment solutions for a duration of 7 days. Following this week‐long treatment, we measured plant chlorophyll content, as well as the fresh and dry weights of shoots and roots. It became evident that the saline treatment, particularly in the 150 mM NaCl group, had a more pronounced impact on both weight and chlorophyll content in comparison to the control group, surpassing the effects observed in the 75 mM NaCl group. Subsequently, we conducted RNA sequence analysis on the leaves of Pearl millet from both the control and 150 mM NaCl‐treated groups.

Results

The results revealed that 27.6% of Pennisetum glaucum genes exhibited differential expression, with 3246 genes being upregulated and 7408 genes downregulated when compared to the control group. Principal component analysis underscored distinct variations in gene expression patterns between the control and salt‐stressed groups. Pathway analysis sheds light on the upregulated differentially expressed genes (DEGs), highlighting their involvement in crucial pathways such as phytyl‐PP biosynthesis, lysine degradation, glutamate biosynthesis, nitrate assimilation and DLO biosynthesis. Conversely, the downregulated DEGs were associated with pathways like coumarins biosynthesis, pinobanksin biosynthesis, UDP‐
d‐glucuronate biosynthesis and cholesterol biosynthesis, among others. Furthermore, our transcription factor analysis unveiled specific families associated with the salt stress response, including bHLH, ERF, NAC, WRKY, bZIP, MYB and HD‐ZIP.

Conclusions

These findings represent a significant advancement in our comprehension of Pearl millet's capacity to withstand salt stress and provide potential targets for the development of salt‐resistant crops, contributing to the advancement of sustainable agriculture in regions affected by salinity.
Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles as Efficient Heterogeneous Catalyst for Synthesis of Bio‐active Heterocyclic Compounds
Authors: Kumar Gourav , Tomar Vijesh , Kumar Parveen , Nemiwal Meena
Published: November 2023

Among the most effective recoverable catalytic systems, metal‐oxide nanoparticles (NPs) are well known for their extensive uses in a broad range of industries, pharmaceuticals, and nano‐biotechnology. In addition, heterogeneous catalysis uses clearly defined materials which are present an extensive range of new possibilities for the research and production of innovative catalysts that help to solve the world's energy and environmental problems. ZnO‐NPs have been used as effective nanocatalysts according to the literature for various kinds of organic reactions. The extensive advantages of ZnO‐NPs over bulk materials suggest that this is a promising field for further research. This review article provides an in‐depth overview of the several ZnO‐NPs that have been reported to catalyse organic transformations including the production of bio‐active compounds like benzofuran, coumarin, imidazole, indole, pyrazole, pyridine pyrimidine, thiazole, diazepine, azoles derivatives. Recent synthetic routes for modifying and functionalizing ZnO‐NPs to increase their catalytic efficacy were also addressed, and illustrated with schematics. The development of novel, highly effective, and reusable modified ZnO‐NPs as catalysts, which would clear the way for the establishment of greener and sustainable technologies, provides the key to the future of catalysis. Researchers attempting to synthesise new functionalized ZnO‐NPs for sustainable development will find this review informative.
Multifunctional DNA‐Based Hydrogel Promotes Diabetic Alveolar Bone Defect Reconstruction
Authors: Peng Ge , Li Wei , Peng Linrui , Li Ruoqing , Wang Zhenghao , Zhou Ye , Gou Liping , Zhu Xinyue , Xie Qingxing , Zhang Xinyi , Shen Sumin , Wu Lei , Hu Liqiang , Wang Chengshi , Zheng Xiaofeng , Tong Nanwei
Published: November 2023

Diabetic alveolar bone defect (DABD) causes persistent bacterial infection, prolonged inflammation, and delayed bone healing, making it a considerable clinical challenge. In this study, by integrating silver nanoclusters (AgNCs) and M2 macrophage‐derived extracellular vesicles (M2EVs), a multifunctional DNA‐based hydrogel, called Agevgel, is developed with antibacterial, anti‐inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and osteogenic properties to promote DABD rebuilding. AgNCs are tightly embedded into the DNA scaffolds and exhibit effective anti‐bacterial activity, while immunomodulatory M2EVs are encapsulated within the shape‐variable DNA scaffolds and exhibit potent anti‐inflammatory and osteogenic properties. The results reveal that Agevgel effectively prolongs the local retention time and bioactivity of M2EVs in vivo. In particular, the sustained release of M2EVs can last for at least 7 days when applying Agevgel to DABD. Compared to free M2EVs or Aggel (AgNCs encapsulated within the DNA hydrogel) treatments, the Agevgel treatment accelerates the defect healing rate of alveolar bone and dramatically improves the trabecular architecture. Mechanistically, Agevgel plays a key role in regulating macrophage polarization and promoting the expression of proliferative and osteogenic factors. In summary, Agevgel provides a comprehensive treatment strategy for DABD with a great clinical translational value, highlighting the application of DNA hydrogels as an ideal bioscaffolds for periodontal diseases.
Remodeling of Mitochondrial Metabolism by a Mitochondria‐Targeted RNAi Nanoplatform for Effective Cancer Therapy
Authors: Xu Rui , Huang Linzhuo , Liu Jiayu , Zhang Yuxuan , Xu Ya , Li Rong , Su Shicheng , Xu Xiaoding
Published: November 2023

Emerging evidence has demonstrated the significant contribution of mitochondrial metabolism dysfunction to promote cancer development and progression. Aberrant expression of mitochondrial genome (mtDNA)‐encoded proteins widely involves mitochondrial metabolism dysfunction, and targeted regulation of their expression can be an effective strategy for cancer therapy, which however is challenged due to the protection by the mitochondrial double membrane. Herein, a mitochondria‐targeted RNAi nanoparticle (NP) platform for effective regulation of mitochondrial metabolism and breast cancer (BCa) therapy is developed. This nanoplatform is composed of a hydrophilic polyethylene glycol (PEG) shell, a hydrophobic poly(2‐(diisopropylamino)ethyl methacrylate) (PDPA) core, and charged‐mediated complexes of mitochondria‐targeting and membrane‐penetrating peptide amphiphile (MMPA) and small interfering RNA (siRNA) embedded in the core. After tumor accumulation and internalization by tumor cells, these NPs can respond to the endosomal pH to expose the MMPA/siRNA complexes, which can specifically transport siRNA into the mitochondria to down‐regulate mtDNA‐encoded protein expression (e.g., ATP6 and CYB). More importantly, because ATP6 down‐regulation can suppress ATP production and enhance reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation to induce mitochondrial damage and mtDNA leakage into tumor tissues, the NPs can combinatorially inhibit tumor growth via suppressing ATP production and repolarizing tumor‐associated macrophages (TAMs) into tumor‐inhibiting M1‐like macrophages by mtDNA.
Live Mapping of the Brain Extracellular Matrix and Remodeling in Neurological Disorders
Authors: Ge Xiaoqian , Xu Xueqi , Cai Qi , Xiong Hejian , Xie Chen , Hong Yi , Gao Xiaofei , Yao Yao , Bachoo Robert , Qin Zhenpeng
Published: November 2023

Live imaging of the brain extracellular matrix (ECM) provides vital insights into changes that occur in neurological disorders. Current techniques such as second or third‐harmonic generation offer limited contrast for live imaging of the brain ECM. Here, a new method, pan‐ECM via chemical labeling of extracellular proteins, is introduced for live brain ECM imaging. pan‐ECM labels all major ECM components in live tissue including the interstitial matrix, basement membrane, and perineuronal nets. pan‐ECM enables in vivo observation of the ECM heterogeneity between the glioma core and margin, as well as the assessment of ECM deterioration under stroke condition, without ECM shrinkage from tissue fixation. These findings indicate that the pan‐ECM approach is a novel way to image the entire brain ECM in live brain tissue with optical resolution. pan‐ECM has the potential to advance the understanding of ECM in brain function and neurological diseases.
Hsa_circ_0001707 regulates endothelial‐mesenchymal transition in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma via miR‐203a‐3p/Snail2 pathway
Authors: Gao Han , Sun Mingjun , Gao Zhikui , Song Jing , Tang Derong , Liu Ran
Published: November 2023

Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) is a malignant tumor with high mortality and poor prognosis. Despite intensive research focused on tumor suppression, the 5‐year survival rate of ESCC is lower than 15%. Therefore, investigate fundamental mechanisms involved in ESCC is on‐demand crucial for diagnostics and developing targeted therapeutic drugs. Circular RNAs (circRNAs), as an emerging class of non‐coding RNA, have been elucidated that circRNAs participated in regulating a variety of pathological processes and tumorigenesis. Nevertheless, the functional role of circRNAs in the occurrence and development of ESCC remains unclear. We identify a novel circRNA (hsa_circ_0001707), which was highly expressed in ESCC patients' tissues and cell lines. Furthermore, gain‐ and loss‐of‐function assays were performed and found that overexpression of hsa_circ_0001707 significantly promote tumor proliferation, metastasis, and invasion. By functioning as a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA), the dual‐luciferase activity assay verified that hsa_circ_0001707 can endogenously bind with miR‐203a‐3p and regulate its downstream gene Snail2. Rescue assay further confirms that hsa_circ_0001707 downregulation could partially attenuate the facilitation effect of miR‐203a‐3p, thereby inhibiting the endothelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) process of ESCC. Our results suggested that hsa_circ_0001707 play an oncogenic role in the pathogenesis of ESCC, which might be a potential biomarker for diagnostics and targeting therapy.
Pioneer of human behaviour change science to deliver Wooldridge Lecture
Authors: Michie Susan
Published: November 2023

The 56th annual Wooldridge Memorial Lecture will be delivered at BVA Congress 2023 by Professor Susan Michie, pioneer of groundbreaking research exploring how influencing people's actions can have a positive impact on health and sustainability.
Adjacency for scattering amplitudes from the Gröbner fan
Authors: Bossinger L. , Drummond J. M. , Glew R.
Published: November 2023

Abstract

Scattering amplitudes in planar $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 4 super Yang-Mills theory exhibit singularities which reflect various aspects of the cluster algebras associated to the Grassmannians Gr(4, n) and their tropical counterparts. Here we investigate the potential origins of such structures and examine the extent to which they can be recovered from the Gröbner structure of the underlying Plücker ideals, focussing on the Grassmannians corresponding to finite cluster algebras.

Starting from the Plücker ideal, we describe how the polynomial cluster variables are encoded in non-prime initial ideals associated to certain maximal cones of the positive tropical fan. Following [1] we show that extending the Plücker ideal by such variables leads to a Gröbner fan with a single maximal Gröbner cone spanned by the positive tropical rays. The associated initial ideal encodes the compatibility relations among the full set of cluster variables. Thus we find that the Gröbner structure naturally encodes both the symbol alphabet and the cluster adjacency relations exhibited by scattering amplitudes without invoking the cluster algebra at all.

As a potential application of these ideas we then examine the kinematic ideal associated to non-dual conformal massless scattering written in terms of spinor helicity variables. For five-particle scattering we find that the ideal can be identified with the Plücker ideal for Gr(3, 6) and the corresponding tropical fan contains a number of non-prime ideals which encode all additional letters of the two-loop pentagon function alphabet present in various calculations of massless five-point finite remainders.
RG boundaries and Cardy’s variational ansatz for multiple perturbations
Authors: Konechny Anatoly
Published: November 2023

Abstract

We consider perturbations of 2D CFTs by multiple relevant operators. The massive phases of such perturbations can be labeled by conformal boundary conditions. Cardy’s variational ansatz approximates the vacuum state of the perturbed theory by a smeared conformal boundary state. In this paper we study the limitations and propose generalisations of this ansatz using both analytic and numerical insights based on TCSA. In particular we analyse the stability of Cardy’s ansatz states with respect to boundary relevant perturbations using bulk-boundary OPE coefficients. We show that certain transitions between the massive phases arise from a pair of boundary RG flows. The RG flows start from the conformal boundary on the transition surface and end on those that lie on the two sides of it. As an example we work out the details of the phase diagram for the Ising field theory and for the tricritical Ising model perturbed by the leading thermal and magnetic fields. For the latter we find a pair of novel transition lines that correspond to pairs of RG flows. Although the mass gap remains finite at the transition lines, several one-point functions change their behaviour. We discuss how these lines fit into the standard phase diagram of the tricritical Ising model. We show that each line extends to a two-dimensional surface ξσ,c in a three coupling space when we add perturbations by the subleading magnetic field. Close to this surface we locate symmetry breaking critical lines leading to the critical Ising model. Near the critical lines we find first order phase transition lines describing two-phase coexistence regions as predicted in Landau theory. The surface ξσ,c is determined from the CFT data using Cardy’s ansatz and its properties are checked using TCSA numerics.
Rekonstruktion von metastasenbedingten Defekten des Azetabulums mittels der MRS-C-Abstützschale
Authors: Koob S. , Kohlhof H. , Randau T. M. , Wirtz D. C.
Published: November 2023

Operationsziel

Stabilisierung des metastatisch befallenen Azetabulums mit einer modularen, zementaugmentierten Abstützschale zur Remobilisation von onkologischen Patienten auch im fortgeschrittenen Krankheitsstadium.

Indikationen

Metastasenbedingte azetabuläre Defektsituationen (Metastatic Acetabular Classification, MAC 2–4) bei mittel- und langfristiger Überlebensprognose des Patienten.

Kontraindikationen

Starke Einschränkung der Überlebensprognose (< 6 Wochen), persistierendes lokales Infektgeschehen, Vorliegen eines primären Knochentumors mit kurativem Therapievorgehen, ausgeprägte Beckendiskontinuität, laufende wundheilungskompromittierende Chemo- oder Immuntherapie.

Operationstechnik

Standardhüftgelenkzugang. Resektion bzw. Kürettage der Azetabulummetastase und vorsichtiges Auffräsen zur Einbringung der Probeschale. Nach Festlegung der Schalengröße, Vorbohren der Dom- und Laschenschrauben und Einbringen des Zementes durch die zentrale Schalenöffnung in den azetabulären Defekt. Anschließend Festdrehen der Schrauben im Sinne einer Verbundosteosynthese. Einbringen einer modularen Pfannenkomponente oder Einzementierung eines tripolaren Pfannensystems in Verbindung mit einer Standardfemurschaftprothese oder einem proximalen modularen Femurersatz.

Weiterbehandlung

Faden‑/Klammerentfernung nach 10 Tagen. Mobilisation unter schmerzadaptierter Vollbelastung. Gangschulung an 2 Unterarmgehstützen. Physiotherapie zur Kräftigung der hüftumgreifenden Muskulatur. Je nach Tumorboard-Beschluss ggf. adjuvante Radiatio nach Abschluss der primären Wundheilung und Fortsetzung der systemischen Therapie.

Ergebnisse

Im Zeitraum 2012 bis 2019 wurden 14 Patienten mit einem metastasenbedingten azetabulären Defekt mit einer zementaugmentierten Abstützschale („MRS-TITAN® Comfort“, MRS-C, Peter Brehm GmbH,
Weisendorf, Deutschland) versorgt. Der Harris-Hip-Score verbesserte sich durchschnittlich um 23,2 Punkte bei einem mittleren Überleben der Patienten von 9,7 Monaten aufgrund der reduzierten Patientenprognose bei Karzinomerkrankung. Bei 13 der 14 implantierten Abstützschalen waren keine Folge- oder Revisionseingriffe notwendig. In einem Fall kam es zu einem weichteildefektbedingten periprothetischen Infekt und zur Explantation der Abstützschale.