bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Experimental evidence associates burrowing behavior of Castalia ambigua (Bivalvia: Hyriidae) with shell shape and density
Authors: do Carmo Reis Gisele , Simeone Diego , Beasley Colin Robert
Published: July 2023

Information on freshwater mussel behavior in the sediment is scarce worldwide, especially in the Amazon. Laboratory experiments were used to measure the responses of the single mussel species Castalia ambigua in relation to combinations of two co‐occurring different morphotypes (Morphotype I with an elongated shell and Morphotype II with a rounded shell), and three different densities (four, eight, and 16 mussels). Horizontal movements (cm) were calculated by summing changes in the position of each specimen and the shell exposure at the sediment–water interface was obtained by measuring (mm) the exposed part of the shell. Castalia ambigua presented different patterns of shell exposure and horizontal movements linked with shell shape and density. Castalia ambigua Morphotype I remained less exposed with 4 mussels. In contrast, this morphotype was more exposed and tended to aggregate in treatments with 8 and 16 mussels, similar to observations of Morphotype II at all densities. Morphotype II is mainly found in low hydrodynamic energy habitats, suggesting that patches with high densities may stabilize the substrate around the shells of Morphotype I, which is associated with high hydrodynamic energy habitats. We suggest that these patterns may be associated with intrinsic factors of the species, such as reproduction, sexual dimorphism and feeding. Moreover, additional studies using other mussel species belonging to the families Hyriidae and Mycetopodidae are important, since the behavior of these mussels in the sediment may provide useful information on their functional roles in river ecosystems.
Incorporating mechanism into conservation actions in an age of multiple and emerging threats: The case of boreal caribou
Authors: DeMars Craig A. , Johnson Chris J. , Dickie Melanie , Habib Thomas J. , Cody Michael , Saxena Amit , Boutin Stan , Serrouya Robert
Published: July 2023

Conservation strategies for imperiled species are frequently based on identifying and addressing the probable causes of population decline, an approach known as the declining population paradigm. Causes, however, are frequently linked to demographic outcomes by multiple mechanisms, and failing to target the primary mechanisms can reduce the effectiveness and efficiency of conservation actions. Increasingly, conservation strategies also need to consider emerging threats, such as climate change. Here, we use boreal caribou (Rangifer tarandus caribou), a threatened ecotype of woodland caribou, as a case study to illustrate how landscape disturbance and climate change can each exert negative demographic effects on caribou through multiple and complex mechanisms. We reviewed the extensive literature focused on woodland caribou to identify and assess the relative importance of each putative mechanism. While disturbance‐mediated apparent competition, the expansion of novel predators, and altered predator behavior appear to be primary mechanisms dictating past and current declines of caribou, climate change has increasing potential to exert strong direct and indirect effects now and in the future. Predicted climate effects may prevent some populations from regaining self‐sustaining status, despite local conservation actions. Our review revealed several knowledge gaps, notably a lack of clarity on the spatial extent of undisturbed habitat required for caribou populations to be stable. We used outcomes from our review to demonstrate how a mechanistic understanding of population decline can inform habitat‐based conservation strategies for caribou. For populations residing within highly disturbed ranges, habitat restoration is a key recommendation of current conservation strategies, yet the large spatial extent of disturbances will require prioritization of areas for restoration. Maximizing the conservation return‐on‐investment for caribou will require a mechanistically informed prioritization process that targets conservation actions toward the primary mechanisms underlying population decline.
Tumor microenvironment‐responsive delivery nanosystems reverse immunosuppression for enhanced CO gas/immunotherapy
Authors: Chen Beibei , Guo Kangli , Zhao Xiaoyi , Liu Zhiwen , Xu Chen , Zhao Nana , Xu Fu‐Jian
Published: July 2023

Carbon monoxide (CO) gas therapy demonstrates great potential to induce cancer cell apoptosis and antitumor immune responses, which exhibits tremendous potential in cancer treatment. However, the therapeutic efficacy of CO therapy is inhibited by the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME). Herein, a facile strategy is proposed to construct hollow‐structured rough nanoplatforms to boost antitumor immunity and simultaneously reverse immunosuppression by exploring intrinsic immunomodulatory properties and morphological optimization of nanomaterials. The TME‐responsive delivery nanosystems (M‐RMH) are developed by encapsulating the CO prodrug within hollow rough MnO2 nanoparticles and the subsequent surface functionalization with hyaluronic acid (HA). Rough surfaces are designed to facilitate the intrinsic properties of HA‐functionalized MnO2 nanoparticles (RMH) to induce dendritic cell maturation and M1 macrophage polarization by STING pathway activation and hypoxia alleviation through enhanced cellular uptake. After TME‐responsive degradation of RMH, controlled release of CO is triggered at the tumor site for CO therapy to activate antitumor immunity. More importantly, RMH could modulate immunosuppressive TME by hypoxia alleviation. After the combination with aPD‐L1‐mediated checkpoint blockade therapy, robust antitumor immune responses are found to inhibit both primary and distant tumors. This work provides a facile strategy to construct superior delivery nanosystems for enhanced CO/immunotherapy through efficient activation of antitumor immune responses and reversal of immunosuppression.
Discovery and SAR Studies of Potent Modulators of BMI‐1 Expression
Authors: Baiazitov Ramil Y. , Sydorenko Nadiya , Du Wu , Ren Hongyu , Cao Liang , Davis Thomas , Cintron‐Lue Katherine , Kim Min‐Jung , Zhuo Jin , Mody Shreshtha , Weetall Marla , Sheedy Josephine , Risher Nicole , Almstead Neil , Moon Young‐Choon
Published: July 2023

In our efforts to identify molecules that selectively reduce the expression of BMI1, a stem cell gene, we discovered and characterized the first‐in‐class series of small molecules that modulate the expression of BMI1 protein in cancer cells. Structure–activity and structure–property relationships associated with this series were investigated through medicinal chemistry efforts. These studies revealed important structural features required for achieving anti‐tumor activity and acceptable pharmacokinetic properties within this series. The 4‐CF3−Ph at the left‐side of the molecule, a proper placement of the N‐atom on the six‐membered heterocycle in the middle, combined with a properly substituted C(2)‐methyl benzimidazole on the right‐hand side were required to achieve potency, microsomal stability, and exposure upon oral dosing. A compound (PTC‐02) with acceptable pharmacological properties and efficacious in vivo in several tumor animal models was identified.
GAS5 silencing attenuates hypoxia‐induced cardiomyocytes injury by targeting miR‐21/PTEN
Authors: Wang Qianli , Xie Zan
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Myocardial hypoxia is an important factor causing myocardial infarction (MI). Interestingly, many unknown factors in the molecular mechanism of MI remain unclear. Our study explored the role of lncRNA growth arrest‐specific 5 (GAS5) in cell injury under hypoxia.

Methods

AS5 expression was assessed in MI and human cardiomyocytes under hypoxia through RT‐qPCR assay. Methyl thiazolyl tetrazolium assay, flow cytometry assay, and transwell assay was carried out for cell viability, cell apoptosis, cell migration, and invasion, respectively. The regulatory target of GAS5 was explored through a dual‐luciferase reporter assay.

Results

Our findings indicated that the upregulation of GAS5 was related to hypoxia. Downregulation of GAS5 expression could decrease hypoxia‐induced cell apoptosis and increase cell migration and invasion. Moreover, GAS 5 targeted miR‐21, which regulated the phosphatase and tension homology deleted on chromosome ten gene (PTEN) expression. Furthermore, the knockdown of miR‐21 eliminated the effect of GAS5 silencing on cell injury.

Conclusion

These results indicated that lncRNA GAS5 silencing decreased cardiomyocyte injury by hypoxia‐induced through regulating miR‐21/PTEN.
Raman spectroscopy for postmortem interval estimation of human skeletal remains: A scoping review
Authors: Woess C. , Huck Christian W. , Badzoka J. , Kappacher C. , Arora R. , Lindtner R. A. , Zelger Philipp , Schirmer M. , Rabl W. , Pallua Johannes
Published: July 2023

Estimating postmortem intervals (PMI) is crucial in forensic investigations, providing insights into criminal cases and determining the time of death. PMI estimation relies on expert experience and a combination of thanatological data and environmental factors but is prone to errors. The lack of reliable methods for assessing PMI in bones and soft tissues necessitates a better understanding of bone decomposition. Several research groups have shown promise in PMI estimation in skeletal remains but lack valid data for forensic cases. Current methods are costly, time‐consuming, and unreliable for PMIs over 5 years. Raman spectroscopy (RS) can potentially estimate PMI by studying chemical modifications in bones and teeth correlated with burial time. This review summarizes RS applications, highlighting its potential as an innovative, nondestructive, and fast technique for PMI estimation in forensic medicine.
Role of TaqMan array card in determining causative organisms of acute febrile illness in hospitalized patients
Authors: Ferdousi Tabassum , Dutta Asok Kumar , Chowdhury M. A. Hassan , Islam Kamrul , Islam Md. Taufiqul , Islam Md. Zahirul , Bulbul Md. Rakibul Hassan , Khan Ashraful Islam , Qadri Firdausi
Published: July 2023

Background

Acute febrile illness (AFI) is a prevalent disease in developing countries that is difficult to diagnose due to the diversity of infectious organisms and the poor quality of clinical diagnosis. TaqMan array card (TAC) can detect up to 35 AFI‐associated organisms in 1.5 h, addressing diagnostic demands. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the role of TAC in determining the causative organisms in hospitalized AFI patients.

Methods

The study had a cross‐sectional design and enrolled 120 admitted patients with persistent fever for three or more days from the medicine ward of Chittagong Medical College Hospital (CMCH) and Bangladesh Institute of Tropical and Infectious Diseases Hospital (BITID). Blood samples were collected and then subjected to automated BacT/Alert blood culture, microbial culture, TAC assay, and typhoid/paratyphoid test.

Results

The total number of study participants was 120, among them 48 (40%) samples showed a positive result in TAC card, 29 (24.16%) were TP positive and nine (7.51%) were culture positive. The number of organisms detected by the TAC card was 13 bacteria, three viruses, one protozoan, and one fungus. The sensitivity and specificity of the TAC assay for different bacterial pathogen compared to blood culture was 44.44%, and 90.99%, respectively. In contrast, the TP test had a sensitivity and specificity of 100% and 80%, respectively, compared to the blood culture test.

Conclusion

TAC can be a handful tool for detecting multiple organisms in AFI with high specificity which can facilitate early diagnosis of different pathogens contributing to AFI.
Effects of Triamterene in Hospitalized Patients with Heart Failure and Diuretic Resistance: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Taban‐Sadeghi Mohammadreza , Khani Elnaz , Khezripour Kimia , Enamzadeh Elgar , Safaei Naser , Entezari‐Maleki Taher
Published: July 2023

Due to the potential benefits of triamterene in diuretic resistance, this study was performed to assess whether triamterene add‐on to the standard treatment of heart failure (HF)‐related diuretic resistance improves outcomes. A randomized clinical trial was performed on 45 hospitalized patients with HF with reduced ejection fraction who had diuretic resistance. Patients were randomized to receive either triamterene 50 mg plus hydrochlorothiazide 25 mg (n = 23) or hydrochlorothiazide 50 mg alone (n = 22) until hospital discharge. The primary outcomes were changes in weight and fluid input‐to‐output ratio. Secondary outcomes were respiratory rate, hospitalization duration, serum sodium and potassium, estimated glomerular filtration rate, creatinine, and blood urea nitrogen levels during the study period. The mean (standard deviation) of weight changes was not significantly different in the intervention and the control groups (−6.3 [4.8] vs −4.8 [2.4] kg, respectively; P = .1). No significant differences were shown in input‐to‐output changes between the 2 groups (208.0 [243.4] in the intervention and 600.2 [250.3] in the control group; P = .4). Although the respiratory rate of triamterene‐treated patients decreased, the difference did not reach statistical significance (P = .2). Other secondary outcomes were also similar in both groups. This study did not support the use of triamterene as an add‐on therapy for patients with HF‐related diuretic resistance.
Relationship between elimination disorders and internalizing‐externalizing problems in children: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Aymerich Claudia , Pedruzo Borja , Pacho Malein , Herrero Jon , Laborda María , Bordenave Marta , Salazar de Pablo Gonzalo , Sesma Eva , Fernández‐Rivas Aranzazu , Catalan Ana , González‐Torres Miguel Ángel
Published: July 2023

Background

Elimination disorders are highly prevalent in childhood and often associated with clinically relevant comorbid psychological disorders. The aim of this study is to determine if, and to what extent, children with elimination disorders show higher internalizing and externalizing problems than their healthy peers.

Methods

A multistep literature search was performed from database inception until May 1st, 2022. PRISMA/MOOSE‐compliant systematic review (PROSPERO: CRD42022303555) were used to identify studies reporting on internalizing and/or externalizing symptoms in children with an elimination disorder and a healthy control (HC) group. First, a systematic review was provided. Second, where data allowed for it, a quantitative meta‐analysis with random effects model was conducted to analyze the differences between the elimination disorder and the HC groups for internalizing and externalizing symptoms. Effect size was standardized mean difference. Meta‐regression analyses were conducted to examine the effect of sex, age, and study quality. Funnel plots were used to detect a publication bias. Where found, the trim and fill method was used to correct it.

Results

36 articles were included, 32 of them reporting on enuresis (n = 3244; mean age = 9.4; SD = 3.4; 43.84% female) and 7 of them on encopresis (n = 214; mean age = 8.6; SD = 2.3; 36.24% female). Children with an elimination disorder presented significantly lower self‐concept (ES:0.42; 95%CI [0.08; 9.76]; p = 0.017) and higher symptom scores for thought problems (ES:−0.26; 95%CI: −0.43;−0.09]; p = 0.003), externalizing symptoms (ES: −0.20; 95%CI [−0.37;−0.03]; p = 0.020), attention problems (ES:−0.37; 95%CI [−0.51;−0.22]; p = 0.0001), aggressive behavior (ES:−0.33; 95%CI [−0.62;−0.04]; p = 0.025) and social problems (ES:−0.39; 95%CI [−0.58;−0.21]; p = 0.0001). Significant publication biases were found across several of the studied domains. No significant effect of sex, age or quality of the study score was found.

Conclusions

Children with an elimination disorder may have significant internalizing and externalizing problems, as well as impaired self‐concept. It is recommendable to screen for them in children with enuresis or encopresis and provide appropriate interventions.
Assessment of dental ergonomics among dental students: A retrospective study
Authors: Sangalli Linda , Alabsy Melisa , Lingle Dana , Alessandri‐Bonetti Anna , Mitchell John C.
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Musculoskeletal (MSK) disorders account for 11%–98% of occupational health issues for dental professionals, with an onset as early as in dental school. Dental ergonomics is among the risk factors; thus, a prompt assessment is crucial in preventing future MSK pain. The aim of this study was to retrospectively assess dental ergonomics of second‐year dental students after dedicated lectures were introduced in the predoctoral curriculum.

Methods

Three cohorts of second‐year dental students were evaluated during preclinical activity in July 2019, January 2022, and December 2022 by an Occupational Therapy (OT) faculty and calibrated OT students. Dental ergonomics was assessed with the Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA). Dental student cohorts were compared with one‐way analysis of variance (ANOVA).

Results

The average RULA final score of 409 participants was 5.1 ± 0.9, with no difference between the three cohorts (p = 0.676). The January 2022 cohort scored significantly lower in wrist–arm score than that of 2019 (p = 0.001) and December 2022 (p = 0.046). Neck and lower limb posture were significantly higher in January 2022 cohort than in 2019 (p = 0.001 and 0.013) and December 2022 (p = 0.001 and 0.005) cohorts. The December 2022 cohort revealed a medium, high and extremely high risk of developing MSK of 40.2%, 37.1%, and 21.6%, respectively, with no difference between sexes.

Conclusion

The risk of developing MSK pain was medium–high in predoctoral dental students and was not related to sex. The overall dental ergonomics required attention and rapid change. Further implementation of varied forms of teaching and monitoring of dental ergonomics from the early years of education is recommended to prevent development of MSK pain at young age and foster better postural habits.
Time poverty and gender in urban sub‐Saharan Africa: Long working days and long commutes in Ghana's Greater Accra Metropolitan Area
Authors: Carmichael Fiona , Darko Christian K. , Daley Patricia , Duberley Joanne , Ercolani Marco , Schwanen Tim , Wheatley Daniel
Published: July 2023

This study uses a mixed‐methods approach and primary data to consider how the length of the working day in Ghana's Greater Accra Metropolitan Area is shaped by time in paid and unpaid work and commuting. The analysis investigates gender differences in the length of the working day and the incidence of time poverty, and explores the relationship between long working days, long and arduous commutes and well‐being. Women are found to be more time poor, and their longer hours of unpaid household caregiving and chores and more difficult commutes have consequences for their leisure time, family–life and health.
Classical phenylketonuria presenting as maternal PKU syndrome in the offspring of an intellectually normal woman
Authors: Alghamdi Malak Ali , O'Donnell‐Luria Anne , Almontashiri Naif A. , AlAali Wajeih Y. , Ali Hebatallah H. , Levy Harvey L.
Published: July 2023

Phenylketonuria (PKU) is an autosomal recessive inborn error of metabolism resulting from a deficiency of phenylalanine hydroxylase (PAH). If untreated by dietary restriction of phenylalanine intake, impaired postnatal cognitive development results from the neurotoxic effects of excessive phenylalanine (Phe). Signs and symptoms include severe intellectual disability and behavior problems with a high frequency of seizures and variable microcephaly. Maternal PKU syndrome refers to fetal damage resulting in congenital abnormalities when the mother has untreated PKU during pregnancy. Here, we report an intellectually normal 32‐year‐old female who presented with recurrent pregnancy loss and two neonatal deaths with congenital heart disease, microcephaly, intrauterine growth restriction, and respiratory distress. She was diagnosed with PKU through exome sequencing performed for carrier testing with a homozygous pathogenic variant in the PAH gene, c.169_171del, p.(Glu57del) that is associated with classical PKU. Consistent with the genetic finding, she had a markedly increased plasma phenylalanine concentration of 1642 μmol/L (normal <100). This case demonstrates that recurrent pregnancy loss due to untreated maternal PKU may present as an initial finding in otherwise unsuspected classical PKU and illustrates that extreme degrees of variable expressivity may occur in classical PKU. Moreover, this case illustrates the value of genomic sequencing of women who experience recurrent pregnancy loss or neonatal anomalies.
Health utilities and health‐related quality of life of patients with keratinocyte skin cancers
Authors: Gordon Louisa G. , Lindsay Daniel , Olsen Catherine M. , Whiteman David C.
Published: July 2023

Background

Health utilities and health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) have not been adequately examined in patients with basal and squamous cell carcinomas (or keratinocyte skin cancers KCs) repeatedly treated for multiple skin cancers and who require ongoing medical surveillance.

Objectives

Our aim was to assess whether health utilities and HRQoL in an Australian population‐based sample of patients recently treated for multiple KCs were poorer compared to patients with single or no KCs.

Methods

Selected from the QSkin Study, a cross‐sectional analysis of 680 patients was undertaken involving data linkage of survey and administrative claims data. Health utility was measured using the EuroQol‐5D 5‐level (EQ‐5D‐5L) while HRQoL was assessed using the Basal and Squamous Cell Carcinoma Quality of Life (BaSQoL) instrument. Scores were summarised by sociodemographic and skin cancer profiles and stratified by skin cancer group (i.e., naïve or zero, single, multiple KCs). Generalised linear models with Poisson family and log link functions were used for multivariate analyses.

Results

The mean EQ‐5D‐5L score was slightly worse for people with multiple KCs (mean: 0.88, SD: 0.14) versus single KCs (mean: 0.90, SD: 0.16) versus none (mean: 0.91, SD: 0.11). Mean scores were not significantly different across skin cancer group after adjustment for number of comorbidities and self‐reported health. BaSQoL domain scores indicated having KCs had little impact on quality of life with mean total scores ranging from 0.27 for the ‘appearance’ domain to 1.15 for the ‘other people’ domain out of a maximum (worst) score of 3.

Conclusions

Even among persons chronically afflicted with multiple KCs and ongoing surgical and nonsurgical treatments, health utility and HRQoL losses were minimal and similar to those people without KCs.
Existence of coupled optical vortex solitons propagating in a quadratic nonlinear medium
Authors: Medina Luciano
Published: July 2023

We consider the coupled propagation of an optical field and its second harmonic in a quadratic nonlinear medium governed by a coupled system of Schrodinger equations. We prove the existence of ring‐profiled optical vortex solitons appearing as solutions to a constrained minimization problem and as solutions to a min–max problem. In the case of the constrained minimization problem, solutions are shown to be positive with undetermined wave propagation constants, but in the min–max approach, the wave propagation constants can be prescribed. The quadratic nonlinearity introduces some interesting properties not commonly observed in other coupled systems in the context of nonlinear optics, such as the system not accepting any semi‐trivial solutions, meaning that optical solitons cannot be observed when, say, one of the beams is off. Additionally, the second harmonic always remains positive.
Sama Bajo Resilience in the Time of COVID
Authors: Wianti Nur Isiyana , McWilliam Andrew
Published: July 2023

Sama Bajo fishing communities in Southeast Sulawesi maintain a strong cultural and economic orientation to diverse fishing‐based livelihoods and varied engagement with high value seafood market supply chains. The onset of the COVID‐19 pandemic within Indonesia in early 2020, and its viral spread across the archipelago over 2021, had dramatic and disruptive impacts on local economies and distribution networks that sustain livelihoods, market services and the distribution of food supplies. Despite these dislocations and the continuing threat of COVID infections for mostly unvaccinated regional populations, the following study of Sama Bajo communities highlights their remarkable resilience in the face of pressing vulnerabilities. The capacity to develop and implement a range of adaptive strategies reflects a long‐term accommodation to dynamic seasonal fluctuations, and the enduring value of diverse marine‐based livelihood options. In this paper we highlight some of the systemic impacts of the COVID pandemic and a variety of ways that Sama Bajo households have found to cope and even thrive under difficult conditions.
Identification of a xyloglucan beta‐xylopyranosyltransferase from Vaccinium corymbosum
Authors: Immelmann Ronja , Gawenda Niklas , Ramírez Vicente , Pauly Markus
Published: July 2023

Plant cell walls contain the hemicellulose xyloglucan, whose fine structure may vary depending on cell type, tissue, and/or plant species. Most but not all of the glycosyltransferases involved in the biosynthesis of xyloglucan sidechains have been identified. Here, we report the identification of several functional glycosyltransferases from blueberry (Vaccinium corymbosum bluecrop). Among those transferases is a hitherto elusive Xyloglucan:Beta‐xylosylTransferase (XBT). Heterologous expression of VcXBT in the Arabidopsis thaliana double mutant mur3 xlt2, where xyloglucan consists only of an unsubstituted xylosylated glucan core structure, results in the production of the xylopyranose‐containing “U” sidechain as characterized by mass spectrometry, glycosidic linkage, and NMR analysis. The introduction of the additional xylopyranosyl residue rescues the dwarfed phenotype of the untransformed Arabidopsis mur3 xlt2 mutant to wild‐type height. Structural protein analysis using Alphafold of this and other related xyloglucan glycosyltransferase family 47 proteins not only identifies potential domains that might influence the regioselectivity of these enzymes but also gives hints to specific amino acids that might determine the donor‐substrate specificity of these glycosyltransferases.
Insights into the relation between vertical cloud structure and dynamics of three polar lows: Observations from COMBLE
Authors: Lackner Christian P. , Geerts Bart , Wang Yonggang , Juliano Timothy W. , Xue Lulin , Kosović Branko , Turner David D.
Published: July 2023

The vertical structure of three polar lows is described using profiling radar, lidar, and passive remote sensors deployed at a coastal site in northern Norway. The data were collected as part of the Cold‐air Outbreaks in the Marine Boundary Layer Experiment (COMBLE). These data are examined in the context of satellite imagery, operational weather radar reflectivity imagery, and output from the AROME Arctic model. A comparison to satellite images shows that AROME‐Arctic captured the polar lows well. All three polar lows form in marine cold‐air outbreaks and are surrounded by open‐cellular convection typical of such outbreaks. Two of the lows form in a forward shear environment and one under reverse shear. Initially, the three polar lows are comma shaped; two of them transition to be more spiraliform at their mature stage and have mostly cloud‐free warm cores. The warm cores are the result of a warm‐seclusion process. All three lows have stratiform precipitation bands, marked by little cloud liquid water, and rather high surface precipitation rate. The vertical drafts and turbulence in these stratiform clouds are generally weak. All three lows also have convective clouds, which have stronger vertical drafts, stronger turbulence, and pockets of high liquid water content.
Habitat suitability of golden mahseer young ones (Tor putitora, Hamilton 1822) in Himalayan waters, India
Authors: Dhawan Bhawna , Sivakumar Kuppusammy , Johnson Jeyaraj Antony
Published: July 2023

Habitat suitability refers to the mechanism that enables organisms to choose suitable habitats to survive. In the present study, we studied the habitat suitability of young golden mahseer (fingerlings and juveniles) in the streams of the Ramganga River, one of the prominent rivers of the western Himalaya. Different habitat types and microhabitat features were documented. Habitat suitability was evaluated by generating habitat suitability criteria curves in response to varying habitat availability and use by young golden mahseer during different seasons. Generalised linear modelling (GLM) was used to analyse environmental characteristics responsible for selecting golden mahseer habitats. We studied mahseer based on body size into two main classes, that is, fingerlings (1.5–10 cm) and juveniles (10–30 cm). Golden mahseer fingerlings preferred mean depth (0.1–0.6 m) and mean stream velocity (0–0.2 m/s) at stream reach dominated by diverse substrate compositions such as sand, gravel, and small cobbles. Similarly, juveniles preferred mean depth (0.1–1.5 m) and mean water velocity (0.1–0.5 m/s), with cobbles, bedrock, and sand dominating their habitats. The GLM results indicated that dissolved oxygen, temperature, and water velocity were the significant factors influencing habitat suitability. High dissolved oxygen positively influenced fingerlings, whereas moderate to high water velocity affected juveniles the most. Therefore, to understand the flow requirement for threatened species like golden mahseer, it is essential to characterise critical habitats and develop criteria based on habitat suitability curves.
CMOS Image Sensor for Broad Spectral Range with >90% Quantum Efficiency
Authors: Setälä Olli E. , Prest Martin J. , Stefanov Konstantin D. , Jordan Douglas , Soman Matthew R. , Vähänissi Ville , Savin Hele
Published: July 2023

Even though the recent progress made in complementary metal–oxide–semiconductor (CMOS) image sensors (CIS) has enabled numerous applications affecting our daily lives, the technology still relies on conventional methods such as antireflective coatings and ion‐implanted back‐surface field to reduce optical and electrical losses resulting in limited device performance. In this work, these methods are replaced with nanostructured surfaces and atomic layer deposited surface passivation. The results show that such surface nanoengineering applied to a commercial backside illuminated CIS significantly extends its spectral range and enhances its photosensitivity as demonstrated by >90% quantum efficiency in the 300–700 nm wavelength range. The surface nanoengineering also reduces the dark current by a factor of three. While the photoresponse uniformity of the sensor is seen to be slightly better, possible scattering from the nanostructures can lead to increased optical crosstalk between the pixels. The results demonstrate the vast potential of surface nanoengineering in improving the performance of CIS for a wide range of applications.
MoSe2@rGO as Highly Efficient Host and Catalyst for Li‐Organosulfide Battery
Authors: Wang Miao , Zheng Sichen , Fu Yongzhu , Guo Wei
Published: July 2023

Organosulfides are promising high‐capacity cathode materials for rechargeable lithium batteries. However, sluggish kinetics and inferior utilization impede its practical application in batteries. Rationally designing redox mediators and identifying their active moieties remain formidable challenges. Currently, as a rising star of transition metal dichalcogenides, few‐layered MoSe2 decorated reduced graphene oxide (rGO) (MoSe2@rGO) with high electronic conductivity and narrow energy band is used to manipulate electrocatalytic redox kinetics of organosulfides, thereby enhancing the battery performance. Here, an exotic MoSe2@rGO is reported with Se defects material obtained from 2D MoSe2 growing on rGO for Li‐dipentamethylenethiuram tetrasulfide (Li‐PMTT) batteries. MoSe2@rGO with Se defects has a large specific surface area, and sufficient pores, as well as exce llent catalytic ability for organosulfides conversion reactions. Therefore, the PMTT@MoSe2@rGO cathode delivers a high reversible capacity of 405 mAh g−1 in the first cycle at 0.5 C and can maintain 238.3 mAh g−1 specific capacity after 300 cycles. This work offers an understanding of organosulfides electrochemistry toward fast and durable performance, holding great promise for developing practically feasible lithium‐organosulfides battery material designs.
Environment‐Interactive Programmable Deformation of Electronically Innervated Synergistic Fluorescence‐Color/Shape Changeable Hydrogel Actuators
Authors: Xie Junni , Wei Shuxin , Lu Wei , Wu Shuangshuang , Zhang Yi , Wang Ruijia , Zhu Ning , Chen Tao
Published: July 2023

Utilization of life‐like hydrogels to replicate synergistic shape/color changeable behaviors of living organisms has been long envisaged to produce robust functional integrated soft actuators/robots. However, it remains challenging to construct such hydrogel systems with integrated functionality of remote, localized and environment‐interactive control over synergistic discoloration/actuation. Herein, inspired by the evolution‐optimized bioelectricity stimulus and multilayer structure of natural reptile skins, electronically innervated fluorescence‐color switchable hydrogel actuating systems with bio‐inspired multilayer structure comprising of responsive fluorescent hydrogel sheet and conductive Graphene/PDMS film with electrothermal effect is presented. Such rational structure enables remote control over synergistic fluorescence‐color and shape changes of the systems via the cascading “electrical trigger‐Joule heat generation‐hydrogel shrinkage” mechanism. Consequently, local/sequential control of discoloration/actuation are achieved due to the highly controllable electrical stimulus in terms of amplitude and circuit design. Furthermore, by joint use with acoustic sensors, soft chameleon robots with unprecedented environment‐interactive adaptation are demonstrated, which can intelligently sense environment signals to adjust their color/shape‐changeable behaviors. This work opens previously unidentified avenues for functional integrated soft actuators/robots and will inspire life‐like intelligent systems for versatile uses.
Modulation of Perovskite Surface Energetics for State‐of‐the‐Art Solar Cells
Authors: Xiong Shaobing , Chu Junhao , Bao Qinye
Published: July 2023

Perovskite surface energetics, which determines the energy‐level alignment at the interface and thus controls the charge carrier dynamics, is essential to harness the potential of perovskite‐based optoelectronics (e.g., light‐emitting diodes and solar cells). Herein, the recent progress on the modulation of perovskite surface energetics for state‐of‐the‐art solar cells is reviewed. First, the architecture evolution of perovskite solar cells (PSCs) and how the underlying substrates regulate the perovskite surface energetics are discussed, followed by their significant roles on device efficiency and stability. Then, the strategies to tune perovskite surface energetics including intrinsic or extrinsic defect doping, charge transfer doping, surface dipole formation, and surface reconstruction are focused on, which help to boost charge carrier transport. Notably, the state‐of‐the‐art efficiencies have been achieved via effective modulation on perovskite surface energetics. Finally, the insights on the design rules of engineering perovskite surface energetics are provided for the further development of highly efficient and stable PSCs.
Functionality and Applications of Non‐Conventional Starches from Different Sources
Authors: Bangar Sneh Punia , Dhull Sanju Bala , Manzoor Mehnaza , Chandak Ankita , Esua Okon Johnson
Published: July 2023

Starch contributes 70–80% of calories in the diet and is a key source of glucose and energy for humans; and has several applications due to its abundance, renewability, and biodegradability. While conventional starch sources like cassava, potato, wheat, and maize have been widely studied; there is increasing interest in the utilization and applications of non‐conventional, and novel starch sources with singular characteristics, but their technological applications are still at infancy. Non‐conventional starches display comparable properties to conventional starches, and their exploitation is linked to regional availability, the social and cultural significance of the starch sources, by‐product valorization, and technological advantages over conventional starches. They can compete favorably with or complement conventional starches for domestic and industrial applications, but information on these starches is still limited. The unification and standardization of research methods are vital for improving yield, purity, and appropriate data comparison. In‐depth studies are also necessary for a proper understanding of structure–function–utilization relationships of the individual sources, in addition to modification strategies for expanding functionalities and providing the framework for extended applications. This review presents a perspective on sources, characteristic compositions, properties, and techno‐functional applications of non‐conventional starches. Suggestions for future research interests are also proposed to further improve the understanding and expand the potential utilizations of non‐conventional starches.
Explainable artificial intelligence: A taxonomy and guidelines for its application to drug discovery
Authors: Ponzoni Ignacio , Páez Prosper Juan Antonio , Campillo Nuria E.
Published: July 2023

Artificial intelligence (AI) is having a growing impact in many areas related to drug discovery. However, it is still critical for their adoption by the medicinal chemistry community to achieve models that, in addition to achieving high performance in their predictions, can be trusty explained to the end users in terms of their knowledge and background. Therefore, the investigation and development of explainable artificial intelligence (XAI) methods have become a key topic to address this challenge. For this reason, a comprehensive literature review about explanation methodologies for AI based models, focused in the field of drug discovery, is provided. In particular, an intuitive overview about each family of XAI approaches, such as those based on feature attribution, graph topologies, or counterfactual reasoning, oriented to a wide audience without a strong background in the AI discipline is introduced. As the main contribution, we propose a new taxonomy of the current XAI methods, which take into account specific issues related with the typical representations and computational problems study in the design of molecules. Additionally, we also present the main visualization strategies designed for supporting XAI approaches in the chemical domain. We conclude with key ideas about each method category, thoroughly providing insightful analysis about the guidelines and potential benefits of their adoption in medical chemistry.

This article is categorized under:

Data Science > Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning
Testing Heavy Neutral Leptons in Cosmic Ray Beam Dump experiments
Authors: Fischer Oliver , Pattnaik Baibhab , Zurita José
Published: July 2023

Abstract

In this work, we discuss the possibility to test Heavy Neutral Leptons (HNLs) using “Cosmic Ray Beam Dump” experiments. In analogy with terrestrial beam dump experiments, where a beam first hits a target and is then absorbed by a shield, we consider high-energy incident cosmic rays impinging on the Earth’s atmosphere and then the Earth’s surface. We focus here on HNL production from atmospherically produced kaon, pion and D-meson decays, and discuss the possible explanation of the appearing Cherenkov showers observed by the SHALON Cherenkov telescope and the ultra-high energy events detected by the neutrino experiment ANITA. We show that these observations can not be explained with a long-lived HNL, as the relevant parameter space is excluded by existing constraints. Then we propose two new experimental setups that are inspired by these experiments, namely a Cherenkov telescope pointing at a sub-horizontal angle and shielded by the mountain cliff at Mount Thor, and a geostationary satellite that observes part of the Sahara desert. We show that the Cherenkov telescope at Mount Thor can probe currently untested HNL parameter space for masses below the kaon mass. We also show that the geostationary satellite experiment can significantly increase the HNL parameter space coverage in the whole mass range from 10 MeV up to 2 GeV and test neutrino mixing |Uα4|2 down to 10−11 for masses around 300 MeV.
The on-shell expansion: from Landau equations to the Newton polytope
Authors: Gardi Einan , Herzog Franz , Jones Stephen , Ma Yao , Schlenk Johannes
Published: July 2023

Abstract

We study the application of the method of regions to Feynman integrals with massless propagators contributing to off-shell Green’s functions in Minkowski spacetime (with non-exceptional momenta) around vanishing external masses, $$ {p}_i^2\to 0 $$

p
i
2

→
0
. This on-shell expansion allows us to identify all infrared-sensitive regions at any power, in terms of infrared subgraphs in which a subset of the propagators become collinear to external lightlike momenta and others become soft. We show that each such region can be viewed as a solution to the Landau equations, or equivalently, as a facet in the Newton polytope constructed from the Symanzik graph polynomials. This identification allows us to study the properties of the graph polynomials associated with infrared regions, as well as to construct a graph-finding algorithm for the on-shell expansion, which identifies all regions using exclusively graph-theoretical conditions. We also use the results to investigate the analytic structure of integrals associated with regions in which every connected soft subgraph connects to just two jets. For such regions we prove that multiple on-shell expansions commute. This applies in particular to all regions in Sudakov form-factor diagrams as well as in any planar diagram.
Relationship of maximum walking speed with peak oxygen uptake and anaerobic threshold in male patients with heart failure
Authors: Koen Masahiro , Kubota Yoshiaki , Tokita Miwa , Kato Kazuyo , Takahashi Hiroshi , Akutsu Koichi , Asai Kuniya , Takano Hitoshi
Published: July 2023

This retrospective observational study aimed to examine the relationships of maximum walking speed (MWS) with peak oxygen uptake (peak VO2) and anaerobic threshold (AT) obtained by cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPX) in patients with heart failure. The study participants were 104 consecutive men aged ≥ 20 years who had been hospitalized or had undergone outpatient care at our hospital for heart failure between February 2019 and January 2023. MWS was measured in a 5-m section with a 1-m run-up before and after the course. Multivariable analysis was used to examine the association between MWS and peak VO2 and AT by CPX. The Pearson correlation coefficient showed that MWS was positively correlated with percent-predicted peak VO2 and percent-predicted AT (r = 0.463, p < 0.001; and r = 0.485, p < 0.001, respectively). In the multiple linear regression analysis employing percent-predicted peak VO2 and percent-predicted AT as the objective variables, only MWS demonstrated a significant positive correlation (standardized β: 0.471, p < 0.001 and 0.362, p < 0.001, respectively). Multiple logistic regression analyses, using an 80% cutoff in percent-predicted peak VO2 and AT, revealed that only MWS was identified as a significant factor in both cases (odds ratio [OR]: 1.239, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.071–1.432, p = 0.004 and OR: 1.469, 95% CI: 1.194–1.807, p < 0.001, respectively). MWS was correlated with peak VO2 and AT in male patients with heart failure. The MWS measurement as a screening test for exercise tolerance may provide a simple means of estimating peak VO2 and AT in heart failure patients.
The potential of the Crystal Cam handheld gamma-camera for preoperative and intraoperative sentinel lymph node localization in early-stage oral cancer
Authors: Mahieu Rutger , Tijink Bernard M. , van Es Robert J. J. , van Nierop Bastiaan J. , Beijst Casper , de Keizer Bart , de Bree Remco
Published: July 2023

Purpose

Evaluating the Crystal Cam handheld gamma-camera for preoperative and intraoperative sentinel lymph node (SLN) localization in early-stage oral cancer.

Methods

The handheld gamma-camera was used complementary to conventional gamma-probe guidance for intraoperative SLN localization in 53 early-stage oral cancer patients undergoing SLN biopsy. In 36 of these patients, a blinded comparison was made between preoperative handheld gamma-camera and lymphoscintigraphy outcomes. Of those, the reliability for marking the SLN’s location using both handheld gamma-camera and a 57Co-penpoint marker was evaluated in 15 patients.

Results

In the entire cohort, the handheld gamma-camera preoperatively detected 116/122 (95%) of SLNs identified by lymphoscintigraphy. In those patients where the observer was blinded for lymphoscintigraphy (n = 36), 71/77 (92%) SLNs were correctly identified by handheld gamma-camera. Overlooked SLNs by handheld gamma-camera were mainly located near the injection site. The SLN’s marked location by handheld gamma-camera and 57Co-penpoint marker was considered accurate in 42/43 (98%) SLNs. The intraoperative use of the handheld gamma-camera led to the extirpation of 16 additional ‘hot’ lymph nodes in 14 patients, 4 of which harbored metastases, and prevented 2 patients (4%) from being erroneously staged negative for nodal metastasis. In those with follow-up ≥ 24 months or false-negative outcomes < 24 months following SLNB, a sensitivity of 82% and negative predictive value of 93% was obtained.

Conclusion

The Crystal Cam handheld gamma-camera offers reliable preoperative and intraoperative SLN localization and might reduce the risk of missing a malignant SLN during surgery. Detecting SLNs near the injection site by handheld gamma-camera remains challenging.
The risk of second primary cancer after nasopharyngeal cancer: a systematic review
Authors: Svärd Fanni , Alabi Rasheed Omobolaji , Leivo Ilmo , Mäkitie Antti A. , Almangush Alhadi
Published: July 2023

Purpose

Second primary cancers (SPCs) after nasopharyngeal cancer (NPC) are rare, but have an impact on the follow-up of this patient population. The aim of this study is to systematically review the literature to determine the prevalence and most typical sites of SPCs after NPC.

Methods

We searched the databases of PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus for articles on SPCs after NPC. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses guidelines were followed.

Results

This review includes data on 89 168 patients with NPC from 21 articles. The mean occurrence for SPCs was 6.6% and varied from 4.9% in endemic areas to 8.7% in non-endemic areas. The most frequent locations of SPCs were oral cavity, pharynx, nose and paranasal sinuses, esophagus and lung.

Conclusion

There is an increased risk for a SPC after NPC management, especially in non-endemic areas. However, their mean rate is lower than after other head and neck carcinomas.