bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The use of sequential window acquisition of all theoretical fragment ion spectra (SWATH), a data‐independent acquisition high‐resolution mass spectrometry approach, in forensic toxicological regimes: A review
Authors: Sarkisian Maria , Rodda Luke N.
Published: May 2024

Sequential window acquisition of all theoretical fragment ion spectra (SWATH) is a type of high‐resolution mass spectrometry that uses data‐independent acquisition. Compared with more targeted acquisition schemes, the power behind this data‐independent acquisition technique comes from its ability to mitigate interferences via the use of SWATH acquisition windows (Q1 quadrupole isolation windows) while still obtaining all accurate mass information. However, consistent with high‐resolution mass spectrometry techniques, its routine and high throughput implementation in forensic toxicology is limited due to the complex processing power required to effectively manage the large amount of acquired data. It is therefore pivotal to create an efficient and validated identification criterion that confidently reports suspected positive detections as a confirmational technique for final reporting. This review examines all publications that implemented SWATH in a forensic toxicological framework with suggestive best practices and commonly used criteria. Seventeen publications were reviewed for extraction, liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry parameters, and more specifically for all SWATH applicable characteristics including spray voltages, collision energies and spreads, mass error, isotopic ratio difference, retention time error, and library score thresholds. Notwithstanding the challenges SWATH implementation faces for a laboratory, the technique demonstrates its potential to be utilized in routine forensic toxicology testing regimes and aids in the detection of both common and emerging novel drugs simultaneously.
Secondary production of the central rangeland region of the United States
Authors: Raynor Edward J. , Derner Justin D. , Hartman Melannie D. , Dorich Christopher D. , Parton William J. , Hendrickson John R. , Harmoney Keith R. , Brennan Jameson R. , Owensby Clenton E. , Kaplan Nicole E. , Lutz Susan M. , Hoover David L. , Augustine David J.
Published: May 2024

Rangelands are the dominant land use across a broad swath of central North America where they span a wide gradient, from <350 to >900 mm, in mean annual precipitation. Substantial efforts have examined temporal and spatial variation in aboveground net primary production (ANPP) to precipitation (PPT) across this gradient. In contrast, net secondary productivity (NSP, e.g., primary consumer production) has not been evaluated analogously. However, livestock production, which is a form of NSP or primary consumer production supported by primary production, is the dominant non‐cultivated land use and an integral economic driver in these regions. Here, we used long‐term (mean length = 19 years) ANPP and NSP data from six research sites across the Central Great Plains with a history of a conservative stocking to determine resource (i.e., PPT)–productivity relationships, NSP sensitivities to dry‐year precipitation, and regional trophic efficiencies (e.g., NSP:ANPP ratio). PPT–ANPP relationships were linear for both temporal (site‐based) and spatial (among site) gradients. The spatial PPT–NSP model revealed that PPT mediated a saturating relationship for NSP as sites became more mesic, a finding that contrasts with many plant‐based PPT–ANPP relationships. A saturating response to high growing‐season precipitation suggests biogeochemical rather than vegetation growth constraints may govern NSP (i.e., large herbivore production). Differential sensitivity in NSP to dry years demonstrated that the primary consumer production response heightened as sites became more xeric. Although sensitivity generally decreased with increasing precipitation as predicted from known PPT–ANPP relationships, evidence suggests that the dominant species' identity and traits influenced secondary production efficiency. Non‐native northern mixed‐grass prairie was outperformed by native Central Great Plains rangeland in sensitivity to dry years and efficiency in converting ANPP to NSP. A more comprehensive understanding of the mechanisms leading to differences in producer and consumer responses will require multisite experiments to assess biotic and abiotic determinants of multi‐trophic level efficiency and sensitivity.
Anthropogenic and climatic factors interact to influence reproductive timing and effort
Authors: Smith Geoffrey D. , Wilcoxen Travis E. , Hudson Spencer B. , Virgin Emily E. , Durso Andrew M. , Van der Walt Marilize , Spence Austin R. , Neuman‐Lee Lorin A. , Webb Alison C. , Terletzky Patricia A. , French Susannah S.
Published: May 2024

Reproduction, although absolutely essential to a species’ persistence, is in itself challenging. As anthropogenic change increasingly affects every landscape on Earth, it is critical to understand how specific pressures impact the reproductive efforts of individuals, which directly contribute to the success or failure of populations. However, organisms rarely encounter a single burden at a time, and the interactions of environmental challenges can have compounding effects. Understanding environmental and physiological pressures is difficult because they are often context‐dependent and not generalizable, but long‐term monitoring across variable landscapes and weather patterns can improve our understanding of these complex interactions. We tested the effects of urbanization, climate, and individual condition on the reproductive investment of wild side‐blotched lizards (Uta stansburiana) by measuring physiological/reproductive metrics from six populations in urban and rural areas over six consecutive years of variable precipitation. We observed that reproductive stage affected body condition, corticosterone concentration, and oxidative stress. We also observed that reproductive patterns differed between urban and rural populations depending on rainfall, with rural animals increasing reproductive investment during rainier years compared to urban conspecifics, and that reproductive decisions appeared to occur early in the reproductive process. These results demonstrate the plastic nature of a generalist species optimizing lifetime fitness under varying conditions.
Impact of heart failure hospitalizations on clinical outcomes after mitral transcatheter edge‐to‐edge repair: Results from the EXPAND study
Authors: Kessler Mirjam , Rottbauer Wolfgang , von Bardeleben Ralph Stephan , Grasso Carmelo , Lurz Philipp , Mahoney Paul , Price Matthew , Williams Mathew , Denti Paolo , Estevez‐Loureiro Rodrigo , Kar Saibal , Maisano Francesco
Published: May 2024

Aim

This analysis aimed to compare the clinical outcomes associated with heart failure (HF) readmissions and to identify associations with HF hospitalizations (HFH) in patients treated with the MitraClip™ NTR/XTR System in the EXPAND study.

Methods and results

The global, real‐world EXPAND study enrolled 1041 patients with primary or secondary mitral regurgitation (MR) treated with the MitraClip NTR/XTR System. Echocardiograms were analysed by an independent echocardiographic core laboratory. The study population was stratified into HFH and No‐HFH groups based on the occurrence of HFH 1 year post‐index procedure. Clinical outcomes including MR severity, New York Heart Association (NYHA) functional class, Kansas City Cardiomyopathy Questionnaire (KCCQ) score, and all‐cause mortality were compared (HFH: n = 181; No‐HFH: n = 860). Both groups achieved consistent 1‐year MR reduction to ≤1+ (HFH vs. No‐HFH: 87.3% vs. 89.5%, p = 0.6) and significant 1‐year improvement in KCCQ scores (+16.5 vs. +22.3, p = 0.09) and NYHA functional class. However, more patients in the No‐HFH group had 1‐year NYHA class ≤II (HFH vs. No‐HFH: 67.9% vs. 81.9%, p < 0.01). All‐cause mortality at 1 year was 36.8% in the HFH group versus 10.4% in the No‐HFH group (p < 0.001). The HFH rate decreased by 63% at 1 year post‐M‐TEER versus 1 year pre‐treatment (relative risk 0.4, p < 0.001). Independent HFH associations were MR ≥2+ at discharge, HFH 1 year prior to treatment, baseline NYHA class ≥III, baseline tricuspid regurgitation ≥2+, and baseline left ventricular ejection fraction ≤40%.

Conclusions

This study reports the impact of HFH on clinical outcomes post‐treatment in the EXPAND study. Results demonstrate that the occurrence of HFH was associated with worse 1‐year survival, and treatment with the MitraClip system substantially reduced HFH and improved patient symptoms and quality of life.
Visible‐Light‐Driven Formyl Group Migration Triggered Remote Desaturation
Authors: Hong Yuwei , Qin Yizhou , Yang Xiong , Zhou Lanxi , Yuan Yao , Zhu Gangguo
Published: May 2024

Dehydrogenation of unactivated alkanes to form versatile alkenes is an important but challenging task in synthetic chemistry. Enabled by a radical‐mediated formyl group migration, a novel visible light‐induced remote desaturation of aldehydes is developed, delivering a panel of trifluoromethylated δ,ϵ‐ or γ,δ‐unsaturated aldehydes in moderate to excellent yields with good functional group tolerance at room temperature. Mechanistic studies indicate a reaction pathway comprising the cascade trifluoromethylation of C−C double bonds, intramolecular addition to aldehydes, β‐fragmentation of alkoxy radicals, single electron transfer oxidation, and deprotonation. It provides a good complementary approach to the existing desaturation protocols.
Three years of morphological dune development after planting marram grass on a beach
Authors: Strypsteen Glenn , Bonte Dries , Taelman Charlotte , Derijckere Jennifer , Rauwoens Pieter
Published: May 2024

Coastal regions globally face escalating challenges from climate change, including rising sea levels and intensified storm events. To address these threats, coastal resilience emerges as a critical paradigm advocating the integration of nature‐based solutions with traditional engineering approaches. Coastal dunes, acting as protective barriers, offer a promising avenue. This three‐year study assesses the efficacy of an artificial dune system to address local sand‐related nuisances on the adjacent seawall featuring planted marram grass in Oosteroever, Belgium. The focus is on understanding sediment accumulation, dune morphology and vegetation development. The results demonstrate a significant increase in dune height, reaching up to 2 m in the zones planted with marram grass, surpassing the height of the adjacent seawall. Comprehensive profiles and drone surveys revealed consistent dune growth of 27 m3/m, which contrasted with the substantial erosion in the adjacent unvegetated beach areas of up to 30 m3/m. One storm event caused dune toe erosion of 1.5 m3/m, but the dune demonstrated rapid recovery through natural aeolian processes. Marram grass development was not impacted by the initial planting configuration and density and was more pronounced at the perimeter edges of the dune. This study highlights the success of the ‘dune‐in‐front‐of‐a‐dike’ approach, offering insights for sustainable coastal resilience strategies.
Combining hillslope erosion and river connectivity models to assess large scale fine sediment transfers: Application over the Rhône River (France)
Authors: Fabre Clément , Fressard Mathieu , Bizzi Simone , Branger Flora , Piegay Hervé
Published: May 2024

Sediment connectivity at the catchment scale includes the processes linking sediment sources, sinks and the river outlet. Soil erosion models usually estimate yields without considering riverine processes or human infrastructure that may affect sediment connectivity. Quantifying these processes at a large scale is a determinant of understanding sediment transfers from continental lands to marine ecosystems. This study tries to fill this gap by coupling the soil erosion model WaTEM/SEDEM (WS) with the riverine connectivity tool CASCADE to quantify sediment fluxes in the Rhône watershed. The coupling returned a good fit, with deviations of −51.7%. WS alone predicts the exported fluxes better with a deviation of −34.9%. Nevertheless, this paper shows the importance of considering connectivity and transport capacity to develop a more realistic representation of fine sediment dynamics at a large scale. However, connectivity tools depend on the quality of the models (soil erosion and hydrology) and the geomorphological data on which they depend, which is a limiting factor in large‐scale studies.
A critical review of distributed fiber optic sensing applied to geologic carbon dioxide storage
Authors: Liu Tianxiang , Li Qi , Li Xiaying , Tan Yongsheng , Cao Xiaomin
Published: May 2024

In the context of global climate change, carbon capture and storage (CCS) has become a direct and effective measure for reducing greenhouse gases emission. However, injecting CO2 into the subsurface reservoirs may pose risks related to geological hazards. Therefore, monitoring the variations in underground temperature fields, strain fields, and vibration fields induced by CO2 injection is essential for predicting and controlling geological hazards. Distributed fiber optic sensing (DFOS) technology, with its unique features, enables real‐time monitoring of temperature, strain, and vibration. By deploying fiber optic (FO) cables inside wellbores, a DFOS can be used to effectively capture multiple underground response parameters. This paper reviews the applications of DFOS technology in CO2 geological sequestration. The chapter covers aspects such as the literature review, principles and applications of fiber optics, and representative monitoring projects. Finally, the paper discusses the challenges and proposed solutions for DFOS technology in this context. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A cautionary tale on the effects of different covariance structures in linear mixed effects modeling of fMRI data
Authors: van der Horn Harm Jan , Erhardt Erik B. , Dodd Andrew B. , Nathaniel Upasana , Wick Tracey V. , McQuaid Jessica R. , Ryman Sephira G. , Vakhtin Andrei A. , Meier Timothy B. , Mayer Andrew R.
Published: May 2024

With the steadily increasing abundance of longitudinal neuroimaging studies with large sample sizes and multiple repeated measures, questions arise regarding the appropriate modeling of variance and covariance. The current study examined the influence of standard classes of variance–covariance structures in linear mixed effects (LME) modeling of fMRI data from patients with pediatric mild traumatic brain injury (pmTBI; N = 181) and healthy controls (N = 162). During two visits, participants performed a cognitive control fMRI paradigm that compared congruent and incongruent stimuli. The hemodynamic response function was parsed into peak and late peak phases. Data were analyzed with a 4‐way (GROUP×VISIT×CONGRUENCY×PHASE) LME using AFNI's 3dLME and compound symmetry (CS), autoregressive process of order 1 (AR1), and unstructured (UN) variance–covariance matrices. Voxel‐wise results dramatically varied both within the cognitive control network (UN>CS for CONGRUENCY effect) and broader brain regions (CS>UN for GROUP:VISIT) depending on the variance–covariance matrix that was selected. Additional testing indicated that both model fit and estimated standard error were superior for the UN matrix, likely as a result of the modeling of individual terms. In summary, current findings suggest that the interpretation of results from complex designs is highly dependent on the selection of the variance–covariance structure using LME modeling.
Association between receiving Covid‐19 vaccine and menstrual cycle patterns among childbearing women: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: AlRawi Halah Z. , AlQurashi Alaa , AlDahan Doaa , Alkhudhayri Maha , Alsharidah Amani R. , Wani Tariq , AlJaroudi Dania
Published: May 2024

Background and Aims

Many women reported experiencing abnormalities in their cycle after being vaccinated with Covid‐19 vaccination. To understand this issue further, our study aimed to evaluate the menstrual cycle patterns among women of childbearing age after receiving COVID‐19 vaccinations.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study was conducted to investigate the impact of COVID‐19 vaccine on women aged 18 years and above in Saudi Arabia. A self‐administered online questionnaire was distributed among participants who had received at least one dose of COVID‐19 vaccine. The questionnaire included questions about the participants' demographic characteristics, medical history, and vaccine‐related adverse events.

Results

The study included 383 female participants with an average age of 30.8 ± 8.1 years. The majority of participants, 92.7%, were Saudi, and more than half, 51.4%, were single. Of the participants, 78.9% were disease‐free, and a majority of 67.9% had no history of Coronavirus Disease 2019 infection. A significant proportion of participants reported postvaccination changes in the menstrual cycle. Specifically, 43.1% reported changes after the first dose, and 38.4% reported changes after the second dose (p = 0.044). The severity of premenstrual symptoms increased from 44 (11.5%) to 113 (29.5%) after the first dose. Reported pain on the (WONG‐BAKER) scale was also significantly elevated from 34 (8.9%) to 87 (22.7%) (p < 0.001) after the first dose.

Conclusion

A relatively high prevalence of menstrual cycle irregularities was reported by Saudi vaccinated women, particularly young adults. These findings suggest the need to further research and explore the underlying causes of these irregularities and develop interventions that may help mitigate their impact on women's health. It is also recommended that women who observe long‐term changes in their menstrual cycles seek follow‐up and consultation with healthcare providers to ensure that any potential health concerns are addressed promptly.
Association between knowledge and use of contraceptive among women of reproductive age in sub‐Saharan Africa
Authors: Donkoh Irene Esi , Okyere Joshua , Seidu Abdul‐Aziz , Ahinkorah Bright Opoku , Aboagye Richard Gyan , Yaya Sanni
Published: May 2024

Background and Aims

The use of contraceptives has been considered relevant in reducing unintended pregnancies in sub‐Saharan Africa (SSA). However, despite evidence of knowledge of contraceptives, their use remains low in SSA. This study examined the association between knowledge of contraceptive methods and the use of contraceptives in SSA.

Methods

Data for the study were extracted from the Demographic and Health Surveys of 21 countries in SSA spanning from 2015 to 2021. A weighted sample of 200,498 sexually active women of reproductive age were included in the final analysis. We presented the results on the utilization of contraceptives using percentages with their respective 95% confidence intervals (CI). We examined the association between knowledge of contraceptive methods and the use of contraceptives using multilevel binary logistic regression analysis.

Results

Overall, 24.32% (95% CI: 24.15–24.50) of women in SSA used contraceptives. Chad had the lowest prevalence of contraceptive use (5.07%) while Zimbabwe had the highest prevalence (66.81%). The odds of using any method of contraception were significantly higher for women with medium [Adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 1.89; 95% CI = 1.80–1.98] and high [AOR = 2.22; 95% CI = 2.10–2.33] knowledge of contraceptive methods compared to those with low knowledge, after adjusting for all covariates.

Conclusion

Our study has shown that the use of contraceptives among women in SSA is low. Women's knowledge of any contraception method increases their likelihood of using contraceptives in SSA. To improve contraceptive use in SSA, targeted interventions and programmes should increase awareness creation and sensitization, which can improve women's knowledge on methods of contraception. Also, programmes implemented to address the low uptake of contraceptives should consider the factors identified in this study. In addition, specific subregional strategies could be implemented to narrow the subregional disparities.
Comparison of the effect of heparin, reteplase, and taurolock in the prevention of thrombosis in hemodialysis catheters
Authors: Azadbakht Morteza , Razian Azadeh , Pooria Ali , Hadian Babak
Published: May 2024

Background and Aim

One of the complications of using catheters is the occurrence of thrombosis, which can be dangerous for patients. The main objective of this study is to compare the effect of heparin, reteplase, and taurolock in the prevention of thrombosis in hemodialysis catheters.

Methods

The present study is a clinical trial, in which the effect of three drugs, heparin, reteplase, and taurolock, in the prevention of thrombosis in hemodialysis catheters, has been investigated. The research units were studied in two intervention and control groups. The stratified random allocation method was used to assign patients to five groups (control, Heparin 50, Heparin 1000, reteplase, and taurolock), with strata based on the patient's age (20–70 years), gender, and duration of dialysis. Within each stratum, patients were also assigned to groups using the randomized block permutation method and a random number table tool. To prevent bias, this study is triple‐blinded. This means that the patient, the thrombosis assessor, and the statistical analyst are unaware of the type of intervention received by the patient.

Results

Gender (p < 0.999), age distribution (p = 0.774), and duration of dialysis (p = 0.875) showed no statistically significant relationship with thrombosis. However, significant differences were observed among the five groups regarding thrombosis incidence. The relative risk of thrombosis in the Heparin 50, Heparin 1000, reteplase, and taurolock groups compared to the control group was 92.5%, 92.2%, 98.2%, and 89% lower, respectively.

Conclusion

Our study underscores the efficacy of heparin, reteplase, and taurolock in preventing thrombosis in hemodialysis catheters. While all three drugs demonstrated efficacy, the Heparin 50 group exhibited the highest relative risk reduction. These findings suggest that heparin, particularly at a low dose, should be considered a standard prophylactic treatment in hemodialysis patients.
An impact of Richardson number on the inclined MHD mixed convective flow with heat and mass transfer
Authors: Mahabaleshwar U. S. , Anusha T. , Sachhin S. M. , Zeidan Dia , Joo Sang Woo
Published: May 2024

The two‐dimensional mixed convective MHD flow with heat and mass transfer is investigated for its behavior with Dufour and Soret mechanisms over the porous sheet. The copper–alumina (Cu–Al2O3) hybrid nanoparticles are used in the base fluid water. The governing system of partial differential equations is converted into a system of ordinary differential equations via similarity transformations, obtaining the solution for velocity, temperature, and concentration fields in exponential form. The problem is demonstrated in the Darcy–Brinkman model, the impact of included parameters such as Richardson number, magnetic field, and Dufour numbers are studied for the obtained solution with the help of graphs. Increasing the magnetic field decreases both transverse and axial velocity profiles. Increasing the magnetic field and Richardson's number decreases the solution (Al2O3–H2O). Increasing the values magnetic field and Richardson's number decreases both transverse and axial velocity profiles. Increasing the values of the Dufour effect increases the axial and transverse velocity boundary layer. The magnetohydrodynamic hybrid nanofluid flow over porous media works efficiently in liquid cooling and, therefore, has significant applications in industrial heating and cooling systems, solar energy, magnetohydrodynamic flow meters and pumps, manufacturing, regenerative heat exchange, thermal energy storage, solar power collectors, geothermal recovery, and chemical catalytic reactors.
Intertidal spring dynamics and coastal nutrient loading revealed through geophysics, drone surveys, and in‐situ monitoring
Authors: Oliver Alexandra C. , Jamieson Rob C. , Smith Kathryn A. , Cantelon Julia A. , Kurylyk Barret L.
Published: May 2024

Coastal eutrophication poses an increasing risk to ecosystem health due to enhanced nutrient loading to the global coastline. Submarine groundwater discharge (SGD) represents a significant pathway for nitrate‐nitrogen (NO3‐N) transport to the coast, but diffusive SGD transport is difficult to monitor directly, given the low flux rates and expansive discharge areas. In contrast, focused SGD from intertidal springs can potentially be sampled and directly gauged, providing unique insight into SGD and associated contaminant transport. Basin Head is a coastal lagoon in Prince Edward Island, Canada that is a federally protected ecosystem. Nitrate‐nitrogen is conveyed from agricultural fields in the contributing watershed to the eutrophic lagoon via intertidal groundwater springs and groundwater‐dominated tributaries. We used several field methods to characterize groundwater discharge, nutrient loading, and in‐channel mixing associated with intertidal springs. The tributaries and intertidal springs were gauged and sampled to estimate a representative summer nitrate load to the lagoon. Our analysis revealed that NO3‐N export to the lagoon through tributaries and springs throughout summer 2023 was on average 401 kg N/month, with the combined spring loading comparable in magnitude to the combined tributary loading. We collected thermal infrared and visual imagery using drone surveys and found spatial overlap between cold‐water plumes from the spring discharge and macroalgae blooms, indicating the local thermal and ecosystem impacts of the focused SGD. We also mapped the electrical resistivity (salinity) distribution in the water column around one large spring with electromagnetic geophysics at different tidal stages to reveal the three‐dimensional spring plume dynamics. Results showed that the fresher spring water floated above the saline lagoon water with the brackish plume oriented in the direction of the tidal current. Collectively, our multi‐pronged field investigations help elucidate the hydrologic, thermal, and nutrient dynamics of intertidal springs and the cascading ecosystem impacts.
The importance of collaboration in maternal medicine: A retrospective descriptive study of a maternal multidisciplinary team meeting
Authors: McCarthy Claire M. , Geoghegan Tony , Ni Ainle Fionnuala , Donnelly Jennifer C.
Published: May 2024

Objective

In the present study we aimed to review the evolution and function of the maternal medicine multidisciplinary team (MMMDT) meeting of a maternal medicine service of a tertiary level stand‐alone maternity hospital.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective descriptive study of all minutes of MMMDT meetings from 2014 to 2020, with the aim of evaluating meeting characteristics and patient demographics.

Results

There were 575 multidisciplinary team (MDT) discussions of 486 women during 43 meetings in the 7 year period. On average, 13 (range 3–23; SD = 5.28) women were discussed at each meeting, attended by 17 (range: 11–27; SD = 4.26) attendees. There were 18 women discussed during successive pregnancies. When analyzing the 2017–2020 data, preconceptual discussions made up 7.3% (n = 42) of patients discussed, with 5.7% (n = 33) being postnatal. The mean maternal age was 32.5 years (range 15–48 years) and women were most likely to be discussed in the mid‐trimester period (21–24 weeks gestation). The top five primary specialities involved were hematology, neurology, rheumatology, neurosurgery and gastroenterology; however, 22 specialities were represented overall when classified by the primary medical condition. When examining the MDT input, hematology input was required in 144 patients (25.0%), radiology in 161 (28.0%) patients, and 117 in anesthesiology (20.3%). When examining the number of teams required to manage the patient, 80 women required the input of three specialities, with 16 women requiring the input of four specialities.

Conclusion

We demonstrate the value and role of the MDT in the management of complex patients, providing a forum to discuss care in all phases of the obstetric journey.
Ecosystem services of irrigated and controlled drainage agricultural systems: A contemporary global perspective
Authors: van der Laan Michael , Virtanen Seija , Matsuno Yutaka , Castelli Giulio , Fayrap Aynur , Cresswell Richard , Hsieh M.K.
Published: May 2024

Irrigated agriculture provides 40% of the world's crop‐based foods but often with a negative impact on the environment. It is important to recognize that in addition to providing food and fibre, irrigation and controlled drainage systems can be optimized to provide additional ecosystem services and mitigate climate change by using resources in a more efficient way. Contemporary case studies were identified from around the world, including flood control by paddy fields in Japan, water quality enhancement and wastewater reuse in South Africa and Taiwan, micro‐/meso‐climate regulation in Ethiopia and Japan, controlled drainage and sub‐irrigation to maximize carbon sequestration and minimize leaching in Finland, and groundwater table management to reduce irrigation water and pumping requirements in Turkey. Irrigation infrastructure, such as rice paddy terraced landscapes (Japan) and large dams and canals (Australia), have also achieved notable additional ecotourism job creation. Case studies were analysed in terms of funding opportunities and compared using the Common International Classification of Ecosystem Services system. It is recommended that planning frameworks be developed that seek to optimize ecosystem services such as the ones discussed above. Policy should be updated to recognize these services and provide incentives to irrigators and water management entities accordingly.
Investigation of morphology and structure of drug‐loaded PLA‐b‐PEO‐b‐PLA polymeric micelle: A dissipative particle dynamics simulations study
Authors: Liu Dongmei , Lin Ye , Wang Danping , Jin Yongchao , Gong Kai
Published: May 2024

The dissipative particle dynamics (DPD) simulation was used to study the morphologies and structures of the paclitaxel‐loaded PLA‐b‐PEO‐b‐PLA polymeric micelle. We focused on the influences of PLA block length, PLA‐b‐PEO‐b‐PLA copolymer concentration, paclitaxel drug content on morphologies and structures of the micelle. Our simulations show that: (i) with the PLA block length increase, the self‐assemble structure of PLA‐b‐PEO‐b‐PLA copolymers with paclitaxel vary between onion‐like structure (core‐middle layer‐shell) to spherical core‐shell structure. The PEO shell thins and the size of the PLA core increases. The onionlike structures are comprised of the PEO hydrophilic core, the PLA hydrophobic middle layer, and the PEO hydrophilic shell, the distribution of the paclitaxel drug predominantly occurs within the hydrophobic intermediate layer; (ii) The system forms a spherical core‐shell structure when a small amount of the drug is added, and within a certain range, the size of the spherical structure increases as the drug amount increases. When the drug contents (volume fraction) cdrug = 10%, it can be observed that the PLA4‐b‐PEO19‐b‐PLA4 spherical structures connect to form rod‐shaped structures. With the length of PLA block NPLA = 8, as the paclitaxel drug concentrations cdrug = 4%, PEO has been insufficient to completely encapsulate the PLA and paclitaxel drug beads. To enhance drug loading capacity while maintaining stability of the system in aqueous solution, the optimal composition for loading paclitaxel is PLA4‐b‐PEO19‐b‐PLA4; the drug content is not higher than 4%; (iii) The paclitaxel‐loaded PLA4‐b‐PEO19‐b‐PLA4 micelle undergo the transition from onionlike (core‐middle layer‐shell) to spherical (core‐shell) to rod‐shaped and lamellar structure as the PLA4‐b‐PEO19‐b‐PLA4 copolymer concentration increases from ccp = 10% to 40%.
Principles versus rules based standards: Differential impact on accounting quality and relevance
Authors: Cabán David
Published: May 2024

This research explores the transition from rules‐based to principles‐based accounting standards, particularly focusing on the implementation of ASC 606, and its impact on the quality and value relevance of financial reporting. The study draws on the debate between the detailed, prescriptive nature of rules‐based standards versus the flexible, judgment‐reliant principles‐based standards. Through a comprehensive empirical analysis, it finds that the adoption of ASC 606 has led to a significant improvement in accounting quality, supporting the theory that principles‐based standards, which emphasize reflecting the economic substance of transactions, result in more accurate and informative financial statements. Additionally, the paper reveals that this transition has varied effects across different industries, with the most pronounced improvements in sectors characterized by complex customer contracts and multiple performance obligations. The research further indicates an increase in the value relevance of financial reporting post‐ASC 606 adoption, suggesting that financial statements now provide more relevant information for investors, thereby enhancing market efficiency. These findings contribute to the ongoing discourse on the optimal approach to financial reporting standards, highlighting the benefits of principles‐based standards while also acknowledging the need for strong regulatory frameworks and professional judgment to mitigate the risks of earnings management and ensure high‐quality financial reporting.
ZNF469 is a profibrotic regulator of extracellular matrix in hepatic stellate cells
Authors: Ariyachet Chaiyaboot , Nokkeaw Archittapon , Boonkaew Bootsakorn , Tangkijvanich Pisit
Published: May 2024

Activation of quiescent hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) into proliferative myofibroblasts drives extracellular cellular matrix (ECM) accumulation and liver fibrosis; nevertheless, the transcriptional network that promotes such a process is not completely understood. ZNF469 is a putative C2H2 zinc finger protein that may bind to specific genome sequences. It is found to be upregulated upon HSC activation; however, the molecular function of ZNF469 is completely unknown. Here, we show that knockdown of ZNF469 in primary human HSCs impaired proliferation, migration, and collagen production. Conversely, overexpression of ZNF469 in HSCs yielded the opposite results. Transforming growth factor‐β 1 promoted expression of ZNF469 in a Smad3‐dependent manner, where the binding of Smad3 was confirmed at the ZNF469 promoter. RNA sequencing data of ZNF469‐knockdown HSCs revealed the ECM‐receptor interaction, which provides structural and signaling support to cells, was the most affected pathway, and significant downregulation of various collagen and proteoglycan genes was observed. To investigate the function of ZNF469, we cloned a full‐length open reading frame of ZNF469 with an epitope tag and identified a nuclear localization of the protein. Luciferase reporter and chromatin immunoprecipitation assays revealed the presence of ZNF469 at the promoter of ECM genes, supporting its function as a transcription factor. Analysis of human fibrotic and cirrhotic tissues showed increased expression of ZNF469 and a positive correlation between expression levels of ZNF469 and ECM genes. Moreover, this observation was similar in other fibrotic organs, including the heart, lung, and skin, suggesting that myofibroblasts from various origins generally require ZNF469 to promote ECM production. Together, this study is the first to reveal the role of ZNF469 as a profibrotic factor in HSCs and suggests ZNF469 as a novel target for antifibrotic therapy.
Does the liver facilitate aging‐related cognitive impairment: Conversation between liver and brain during exercise?
Authors: Wei Changling , Li Xue , Jin Yu , Zhang Yuanting , Yuan Qiongjia
Published: May 2024

Liver, an important regulator of metabolic homeostasis, is critical for healthy brain function. In particular, age‐related neurodegenerative diseases seriously reduce the quality of life for the elderly. As population aging progresses rapidly, unraveling the mechanisms that effectively delay aging has become critical. Appropriate exercise is reported to improve aging‐related cognitive impairment. Whereas current studies focused on exploring the effect of exercise on the aging brain itself, ignoring the persistent effects of peripheral organs on the brain through the blood circulation. The aim of this paper is to summarize the communication and aging processes of the liver and brain and to emphasize the metabolic mechanisms of the liver–brain axis about exercise ameliorating aging‐related neurodegenerative diseases. A comprehensive understanding of the potential mechanisms about exercise ameliorating aging is critical for improving adaptation to age‐related brain changes and formulating effective interventions against age‐related cognitive decline.
On induced subgraph of Cartesian product of paths
Authors: Zeng Jiasheng , Hou Xinmin
Published: May 2024

Chung et al. constructed an induced subgraph of the hypercube with vertices and with maximum degree smaller than . Subsequently, Huang proved the Sensitivity Conjecture by demonstrating that the maximum degree of such an induced subgraph of hypercube is at least , and posed the question: Given a graph , let be the minimum of the maximum degree of an induced subgraph of on vertices, what can we say about ? In this paper, we investigate this question for Cartesian product of paths , denoted by . We determine the exact values of when by showing that for and , and give a nontrivial lower bound of when by showing that . In particular, when , we have , which is Huang's result. The lower bounds of and are given by using the spectral method provided by Huang.
Regioselective N1‐methylation of 1H‐tetrazoles with methyl 2,2,2‐trichloroacetimidate
Authors: Baddam Sudhakar Reddy , Kalagara Sudhakar , Ganta Srinivas , Ponnuru Venkata Suresh , Vudari Balaraju , Nalla Seshadri
Published: May 2024

An efficient, mild, and regioselective synthesis of substituted 1‐methyl‐1H‐tetrazole using methyl 2,2,2‐trichloroacetimidate is described. The substrate scope of the methodology has been established with wide variety of tetrazoles. N1‐Methylated tetrazoles were synthesized with high yields (85%–97%).
Preoperative Differentiation of HER2‐Zero and HER2‐Low from HER2‐Positive Invasive Ductal Breast Cancers Using BI‐RADS MRI Features and Machine Learning Modeling
Authors: Zhou Jiejie , Zhang Yang , Miao Haiwei , Yoon Ga Young , Wang Jinhao , Lin Yezhi , Wang Hailing , Liu Yan‐Lin , Chen Jeon‐Hor , Pan Zhifang , Su Min‐Ying , Wang Meihao
Published: May 2024

Background

Accurate determination of human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) is important for choosing optimal HER2 targeting treatment strategies. HER2‐low is currently considered HER2‐negative, but patients may be eligible to receive new anti‐HER2 drug conjugates.

Purpose

To use breast MRI BI‐RADS features for classifying three HER2 levels, first to distinguish HER2‐zero from HER2‐low/positive (Task‐1), and then to distinguish HER2‐low from HER2‐positive (Task‐2).

Study Type

Retrospective.

Population

621 invasive ductal cancer, 245 HER2‐zero, 191 HER2‐low, and 185 HER2‐positive. For Task‐1, 488 cases for training and 133 for testing. For Task‐2, 294 cases for training and 82 for testing.

Field Strength/Sequence

3.0 T; 3D T1‐weighted DCE, short time inversion recovery T2, and single‐shot EPI DWI.

Assessment

Pathological information and BI‐RADS features were compared. Random Forest was used to select MRI features, and then four machine learning (ML) algorithms: decision tree (DT), support vector machine (SVM), k‐nearest neighbors (k‐NN), and artificial neural nets (ANN), were applied to build models.

Statistical Tests

Chi‐square test, one‐way analysis of variance, and Kruskal–Wallis test were performed. The P values <0.05 were considered statistically significant. For ML models, the generated probability was used to construct the ROC curves.

Results

Peritumoral edema, the presence of multiple lesions and non‐mass enhancement (NME) showed significant differences. For distinguishing HER2‐zero from non‐zero (low + positive), multiple lesions, edema, margin, and tumor size were selected, and the k‐NN model achieved the highest AUC of 0.86 in the training set and 0.79 in the testing set. For differentiating HER2‐low from HER2‐positive, multiple lesions, edema, and margin were selected, and the DT model achieved the highest AUC of 0.79 in the training set and 0.69 in the testing set.

Data Conclusion

BI‐RADS features read by radiologists from preoperative MRI can be analyzed using more sophisticated feature selection and ML algorithms to build models for the classification of HER2 status and identify HER2‐low.

Level of Evidence

4.

Technical Efficacy

Stage 2.
Identification, structure elucidation, and isomer differentiation of phenolic compounds of Chinese pepper cultivars by UPLC‐ESI‐Q‐TOF‐MS and their antioxidant activity
Authors: Elkhedir Abdeen E. , Abker Adil M. , Elsadig Mohamed , Mohammed Jalaleldeen Khaleel , Xu Xiaoyun
Published: May 2024

A total of 43 compounds, including phenolic acids, flavonoids, lignans, and diterpene, were identified and characterized using UPLC‐ESI‐Q‐TOF‐MS coupled with UNIFI software. The identified flavonoids were mostly isomers of luteolin, apigenin, and quercetin, which were elucidated and distinguished for the first time in pepper cultivars. The use of multivariate data analytics for sample discrimination revealed that luteolin derivatives played the most important role in differentiating pepper cultivars. The content of phenolic acids and flavonoids in immature green peppers was generally higher than that of mature red peppers. The pepper extracts possessed significant antioxidant activities, and the antioxidant activities correlated well with phenolic contents and their molecular structure. In conclusion, the findings expand our understanding of the phytochemical components of the Chinese pepper genotype at two maturity stages. Moreover, a UPLC‐ESI‐Q‐TOF‐MS in negative ionization mode rapid methods for characterization and isomers differentiation was described.
Prior COVID‐19 vaccination and reduced risk of cerebrovascular diseases among COVID‐19 survivors
Authors: Chen Sheng‐Yin , Hsieh Tina Yi Jin , Hung Yao‐Min , Oh Jae Won , Chen Shen‐Kai , Wang Shiow‐Ing , Chang Renin , Wei James Cheng‐Chung
Published: May 2024

The effects of COVID‐19 vaccination on short‐term and long‐term cerebrovascular risks among COVID‐19 survivors remained unknown. We conducted a national multi‐center retrospective cohort study with 151 597 vaccinated and 151 597 unvaccinated COVID‐19 patients using the TriNetX database, from January 1, 2020 to December 31, 2023. Patients baseline characteristics were balanced with propensity score matching (PSM). The outcomes were incident cerebrovascular diseases occurred between 1st and 30th days (short‐term) after COVID‐19 diagnosis. Nine subgroup analyses were conducted to explore potential effect modifications. We performed six sensitivity analyses, including evaluation of outcomes between 1st to 180th days, accounting for competing risk, and incorporating different variant timeline to test the robustness of our results. Kaplan‐Meier curves and Log‐Rank tests were performed to evaluate survival difference. Cox proportional hazards regressions were adopted to estimate the PSM‐adjusted hazard ratios (HR). The overall short‐term cerebrovascular risks were lower in the vaccinated group compared to the unvaccinated group (HR: 0.66, 95% CI: 0.56–0.77), specifically cerebral infarction (HR: 0.62, 95% CI: 0.48–0.79), occlusion and stenosis of precerebral arteries (HR: 0.74, 95% CI: 0.53–0.98), other cerebrovascular diseases (HR: 0.57, 95% CI: 0.42–0.77), and sequelae of cerebrovascular disease (HR: 0.39, 95% CI:0.23–0.68). Similarly, the overall cerebrovascular risks were lower in those vaccinated among most subgroups. The long‐term outcomes, though slightly attenuated, were consistent (HR: 0.80, 95% CI: 0.73–0.87). Full 2‐dose vaccination was associated with a further reduced risk of cerebrovascular diseases (HR: 0.63, 95% CI: 0.50–0.80) compared to unvaccinated patients. Unvaccinated COVID‐19 survivors have significantly higher cerebrovascular risks than their vaccinated counterparts. Thus, clinicians are recommended to monitor this population closely for stroke events during postinfection follow‐up.
Human coronavirus 229E inactivation on porous and nonporous materials using dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) plasma
Authors: Ashokkumar Sekar , Lim Jun Sup , Kaushik Nagendra Kumar , Han Ihn , Uhm Han Sup , Shin Yung Oh , Choi Eun Ha
Published: May 2024

Viruses can spread through contaminated aerosols and contaminated surface materials, and effective disinfection techniques are essential for virus inactivation. Nonthermal plasma‐generated reactive oxygen and nitrogen species can effectively inactivate the coronavirus. We aim to interpret the coronavirus inactivation level and mechanism of surface interaction with materials with and without dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) plasma treatment. Nonthermal plasma, particularly surface‐type DBD plasma, can inactivate human coronavirus 229E (HCoV‐229E) on porous (paper, wood, mask) and nonporous (plastic, stainless steel, glass, Cu) materials. Virus inactivation was analyzed using a 50% tissue culture infectivity dose (TCID50) using cell line, flow cytometry, and immunofluorescence. Surfaces contaminated with HCoV‐229E were treated at different time intervals (0–5 h) with and without plasma exposure (natural decay in ambient air conditions). HCoV‐229E persistence conformed to the following order: plastic > cover glass > stainless steel > mask > wood > paper > Cu with and without plasma exposure. HCoV‐229E was more stable in plastic, cover glass, and stainless steel in 5 h, and the viable virus titer gradually decreased from its initial log10 order of 6.892 to 1.72, 1.53, and 1.32 TCID50/mL, respectively, under plasma exposure. No virus was observed in Cu after treatment for 5 h. The use of airflow, ambient nitrogen, and argon did not promote virus inactivation. Flow cytometry and immunofluorescence analysis demonstrated a low expression level of spike protein (fluorescence intensity) during plasma treatment and in E and M genes expression compared with the virus control.
Transient analysis of growth/decay in materials utilizing a digital exponential peeling method
Authors: Mukherjee Jayjit , Malik Amit , Vinayak Seema , Kumar Vikram , Rawal D. S. , Dhaka R. S.
Published: May 2024

An algorithm is proposed to implement digital peeling to determine dominant time constants of an exponential transient process. The method is simpler to implement and reduces computational time to a large extent in comparison to other techniques widely used. Apart from a synthetic test function, the algorithm has been implemented on reported experimental transient decay curves of Cs2HfCl6 (CHC) single crystal scintillation to verify its efficacy. Finally, drain current detrapping transients of unpassivated AlGaN/GaN high electron mobility transistors (HEMTs) are analyzed to determine the trap energy levels and concentrations. The validation of this digital peeling technique is also carried out by comparing with conventional method of time constant extraction from HEMT current transients. The extracted exponentials from the transient data efficiently fits well with the experimental data and can be extensively used for transient analysis. The digital peeling technique has wide applicability and can be used to analyze all exponential processes which occur in all domains of science.