bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Astragaloside IV ameliorates radiation‐induced nerve cell damage by activating the BDNF/TrkB signaling pathway
Authors: Liu Xin , Ding Yanping , Jiang Chenxin , Ma Xin , Xin Yuanyuan , Li Yingdong , Zhang Shengxiang , Shao Baoping
Published: May 2023

Radiation can induce nerve cell damage. Synapse connectivity and functionality are thought to be the essential foundation of all cognitive functions. Therefore, treating and preventing damage to synaptic structure and function is an urgent challenge. Astragaloside IV (AS‐IV) is a glycoside extracted from Astragalus membranaceus (Fisch.). Bunge is a widely used traditional Chinese medicine in China with various pharmacological properties, including protective effects on the central nervous system (CNS). In this study, the effect of AS‐IV on synapse damage and BDNF/TrkB signaling pathway in radiated C57BL/6 mice with X‐rays was investigated. PC12 cells and primary cortical neurons were exposed to UVA in vitro. Open field test and rotarod test were used to observe the effects of AS‐IV on the motor and explore the abilities of radiated mice. The pathological changes in the brain were observed by hematoxylin and eosin and Nissl staining. Immunofluorescence analysis was used to detect the synapse damage. The expressions of the BDNF/TrkB pathway and neuroprotection‐related molecules were detected by Western blotting and Quantitative‐RTPCR, respectively. The results showed that AS‐IV could improve the motor and explore abilities of radiated mice, reduce pathological damage to the cortex, enhance neuroprotection functions, and activate BDNF/TrkB pathway. In conclusion, AS‐IV could relieve radiation‐induced synapse damage, at least partly through the BDNF/TrkB pathway.
Traditional medicinal plants in the treatment of gastrointestinal parasites in humans: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of clinical and experimental evidence
Authors: Ranasinghe Sandamalie , Aspinall Sasha , Beynon Amber , Ash Amanda , Lymbery Alan
Published: May 2023

Gastrointestinal (GI) parasites cause significant morbidity and mortality worldwide. The use of conventional antiparasitic drugs is often inhibited due to limited availability, side effects or parasite resistance. Medicinal plants can be used as alternatives or adjuncts to current antiparasitic therapies. This systematic review and meta‐analysis aimed to critically synthesise the literature on the efficacy of different plants and plant compounds against common human GI parasites and their toxicity profiles. Searches were conducted from inception to September 2021. Of 5393 screened articles, 162 were included in the qualitative synthesis (159 experimental studies and three randomised control trials [RCTs]), and three articles were included in meta‐analyses. A total of 507 plant species belonging to 126 families were tested against different parasites, and most of these (78.4%) evaluated antiparasitic efficacy in vitro. A total of 91 plant species and 34 compounds were reported as having significant in vitro efficacy against parasites. Only a few plants (n = 57) were evaluated for their toxicity before testing their antiparasitic effects. The meta‐analyses revealed strong evidence of the effectiveness of Lepidium virginicum L. against Entamoeba histolytica with a pooled mean IC50 of 198.63 μg/mL (95% CI 155.54–241.72). We present summary tables and various recommendations to direct future research.
TG‐compound optimal design for bivariate binary responses modelled via Copulas
Authors: Kilany Neveen Mohamed
Published: May 2023

Univariate data has been the focus of optimal design for generalized linear models. It is common practice to conduct experiments with multiple dependent responses that are modelled using regression techniques. To design the experiment for all these responses, one needs a multivariate distribution supporting a previously chosen data model. The T‐optimal criterion is used to discriminate between two competing models. The designs that are optimal for discrimination between two models may be unsuitable for describe the quality of predictions for test data. G‐optimal criterion overcomes this restriction by minimizing the maximum variance of the predicted values. The design of experiments with dependent bivariate binary data is a topic we discuss in this paper. For dependent bivariate binary data, a technique for deriving TG‐optimal experimental designs using Copula is shown. The new compound TG‐criterion satisfy the dual aim to selecting the true model and minimizing the maximum prediction variance. The equivalence theorem is demonstrated and proved for the new compound criterion. A numerical example is presented to show the properties of the new compound criterion for bivariate binary setting and its value in meeting the dual aims.
A case of eosinophilic pneumonia induced by lettuce
Authors: Sekiya Reina , Nagano Tatsuya , Moriyama Tatsuya , Kawaguchi Aki , Fukui Takafumi , Mimura Chihiro , Kimura Yohei , Ohnishi Hisashi , Kotani Yoshikazu , Nishimura Yoshihiro
Published: May 2023

A 56‐year‐old female lettuce farmer was admitted to the hospital with a low‐grade fever, worsening cough, and dyspnoea. A blood test revealed eosinophilia and a high serum IgE concentration. The 3‐year follow‐up showed that her total IgE level increased in December, peaked in May, and suddenly decreased in August. This result was consistent with the lettuce harvest season. A chest x‐ray taken on admission showed an infiltrative shadow in the upper lung field. Chest CT revealed patchy ground glass opacity on the upper lung field and thickening of the bronchial wall. The bronchoalveolar lavage fluid contained 8% eosinophils. She was treated with prednisolone, and her symptoms and radiological findings improved. The 37 kDa protein that reacted with the patient's sera was identified by immunoblot analysis.
How do different functional crop groups perform in temperate silvoarable agroforestry systems? A Swiss case study
Authors: den Hond‐Vaccaro Christina , Six Johan , Schöb Christian
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Agroforestry systems provide a number of ecosystem services and are frequently considered as a promising diversification strategy for more sustainable and climate resilient primary production. However, most agroforestry field trials compare only one crop type with a control in open field. Additional comparisons between treatments that influence nutrient and water availability are often not looked at, nor are comparisons between crop species.

Materials and Methods

To deepen our understanding of the ecological processes underlying the potential benefits of agroforestry for food production, the present experimental study addresses three environmental factors (shade, fertilisation and irrigation) on three functionally different crop species (field bean, summer barley, summer rapeseed) and a C4‐grass (Echinochloa crus‐galli) in a Swiss agroforestry system. Crop performance (physiological traits, yield) between functional groups was analysed among treatment combinations of shade, fertilisation and irrigation. Physiological traits included measurements of chlorophyll content, stomatal conductance, specific leaf area and plant height.

Results

Summer barley and field bean showed significant yield declines when shaded (−44% and −38%, respectively), similar to summer rapeseed with a significant biomass decline (−35%). Shade significantly increased the occurrence of lodging in barley. Rapeseed in particular performed better when fertilised (+40% biomass).

Conclusion

The results allow to estimate the range of potential yield losses in the competitive zone near mature trees for functionally different crop groups. The findings serve as a decision‐support for species selection in temperate European agroforestry systems.
Amine Functionalized Magnetite GO‐MWCNT as an Efficient 3D Hybrid Aerogel for the Remediation of Copper(II) from Wastewater: Box‐Behnken Design Optimization
Authors: Islam Aminul , Fatima Sana
Published: May 2023

This work focuses on the sequestration of Cu(II) from aqueous environment owing to the risks posed to human health. A magnetic hybrid aerogel (mGO‐TETA‐MWCNT) was synthesized by one‐pot self‐assembly of magnetic graphene oxide (mGO) and multiwalled carbon‐nanotubes (MWCNT) post functionalization with triethylenetetramine (TETA) through hydrothermal reduction. The prepared adsorbent was characterized and employed for efficient removal of Cu(II). The aerogel, mGO‐TETA‐MWCNT presented maximum adsorption capacity (Qmax) of 232.22 mg g−1 at Box‐Behnken design optimized conditions: pH 5.6, time 36.7 min, and concentration 999.7 mg L−1. The Brouers‐Sotolongo (BS) isotherm and Fractal‐like pseudo‐second‐order (FLPSO) kinetic model fitted best representing heterogeneity of the hybrid adsorbent. The presence of interferent metal ions(Ni(II), Pb(II), Cd(II), Zn(II)) showed negligible effect on the selective sorption of Cu(II). The prepared adsorbent could be regenerated upto five cycles (>95 % removal) when eluted using 0.5 m HCl. The aerogel was successfully utilized to remove Cu(II) from wastewater, river‐water, and groundwater.
Insights into the Origin and Therapeutic Implications of Benzopyran and Its Derivatives
Authors: Tiwari Ajay Kumar , Singh Man Vir
Published: May 2023

Benzopyran derivatives are essential for life and are found abundantly in nature. Benzopyran compounds and their derivatives play an essential role in medicinal chemistry. The alkaloids, flavonoids, tocopherols, and anthocyanins natural products comprise benzopyran's basic structure. Various benzopyran derivatives have been used for therapeutic effects. Benzopyran derivatives can be proficient in various pharmaceutical applications for cellular markers. The basic structure of benzopyran is an efficient class of synthetic products and an emerging attention area of research. Therefore, impactful information on benzopyran and its derivatives has been compiled in the last several years. Recently, the development of novel benzopyran and its applications are contributing to medicines and pharmacy.
Syntheses, Structural Characterization, Optical and Magnetic Properties of a New Polyoxovanadate‐Based Metal‐Organic Polyhedron
Authors: Nguyen My Van , Tran Truong Quang
Published: May 2023

A new polyoxovanadate‐based metal‐organic polyhedron, termed V‐MOP‐19, constructed from pentanuclear {V5O9Cl} clusters and 1,4‐naphthalenedicarboxylic acid linkers, was successfully fabricated via the solvothermal method. Structural analysis revealed that V‐MOP‐19 adopts the cubic symmetry featured with an octahedral pore cage of 15.7 Å. Full characterization of V‐MOP‐19 was measured by Fourier transform infrared (FT‐IR), Raman spectroscopy, powder X‐ray diffraction (PXRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy‐dispersive X‐ray (EDX), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), thermogravimetric and differential scanning calorimetry analysis (TGA‐DSC), N2 sorption isotherm and elemental analysis (EA). The band gap energy of V‐MOP‐19, measured by UV‐Vis diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (UV‐Vis/DRS), is determined to be 2.38 eV. Moreover, the cyclic voltammetry investigation confirms a high correspondence of the band gap value (2.41 eV) with the mentioned UV‐Vis/DRS study. In particular, V‐MOP‐19 exhibits a unique magnetic property with remarkable coercivity and remanent magnetization value. These findings demonstrate that V‐MOP‐19 could be used as a potential candidate in further photocatalytic and magnetic investigations.
Synthesis and Tunable Fluorescence of N,N‐Disubstitute ortho‐Aminostyryl D‐π‐A Chromophores Based on a Hydroxytricyanopyrrole (HTCP) Acceptor
Authors: Fedoseev Sergey V. , Yu. Belikov Mikhail
Published: May 2023

The first representatives of a new group of fluorescent donor‐acceptor chromophores, the key structural fragments of which are an easily modifiable hydroxytricyanopyrrole (HTCP) acceptor and an N,N‐disubstituted ortho‐aminostyryl donor fragment, were synthesized. By changing the substituent on both the donor and acceptor fragments, the possibility of varying the emission maxima in the solid state in the red region in the range of 620–732 nm was achieved. It was shown that the introduction of an alkoxy group into the pyrrole ring of HTCP leads to an increase in the quantum yield (Φc) of solid state emission to 9.5 %. In the liquid phase HTCP‐chromophores fluoresce in the range of 621–639 nm with a relative quantum yield of up to 5.5 % The energy values found for the band gap of HTCP chromophore with ortho‐morpholinostyryl donor fragment were in the range of 2.38–2.41 eV.
A Practical Synthesis of 2‐Arylimino‐2H‐Chromenes via Biocatalytic System in Water
Authors: Ma Jinglin , Li Fengxi , Xu Yuelin , Wang Chunyu , Du Chuang , Wang Zhi , Wang Lei
Published: May 2023

A metal‐free, straightforward, non‐hazardous reagent‐added, one‐pot approach for the efficient synthesis of 2‐arylimino‐2H‐chromenes with high yields was developed for the first time in this report through the coupling of salicylaldehydes with β‐ketothioamides, which was catalyzed by lipase in water. This green strategy provides an efficient method to obtain various 2‐arylimino‐2H‐chromenes and enriches the practical application of biocatalysis.
Development of Single Molecule Techniques for Sensing and Manipulation of CRISPR and Polymerase Enzymes
Authors: Chu Josephine , Romero Andres , Taulbee Jeffrey , Aran Kiana
Published: May 2023

Clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR) and polymerases are powerful enzymes and their diverse applications in genomics, proteomics, and transcriptomics have revolutionized the biotechnology industry today. CRISPR has been widely adopted for genomic editing applications and Polymerases can efficiently amplify genomic transcripts via polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Further investigations into these enzymes can reveal specific details about their mechanisms that greatly expand their use. Single‐molecule techniques are an effective way to probe enzymatic mechanisms because they may resolve intermediary conformations and states with greater detail than ensemble or bulk biosensing techniques. This review discusses various techniques for sensing and manipulation of single biomolecules that can help facilitate and expedite these discoveries. Each platform is categorized as optical, mechanical, or electronic. The methods, operating principles, outputs, and utility of each technique are briefly introduced, followed by a discussion of their applications to monitor and control CRISPR and Polymerases at the single molecule level, and closing with a brief overview of their limitations and future prospects.
Oxygen‐Induced Reversible Degradation of Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Purev-Ochir Badamgarav , Liu Xuelong , Fujita Yuki , Semba Dai , Raju Telugu Bhim , Tumen-Ulzii Ganbaatar , Wachi Atsushi , Sato Hiroshi , Matsushima Toshinori , Adachi Chihaya
Published: May 2023

After remarkable progress over the past decades, perovskite solar cells (PSCs) currently exhibit efficient solar power conversion efficiency. However, the environmental instability of perovskite materials and devices is still a serious issue, impeding the future commercialization of this technology. Herein, why PSCs degrade in air is investigated and it is found that one of the critical reasons for the air‐induced PSC degradation is the doping of the 2,2′,7,7′‐tetrakis(N,N‐di‐p‐methoxyphenylamine)‐9,9′‐spirobi‐fluorene (spiro‐OMeTAD) hole‐transport layer with oxygen. Photoelectron yield spectroscopy reveals that the hole‐transport level of the spiro‐OMeTAD layer becomes deeper by oxygen doping, increasing an energy barrier for hole extraction. In other words, decreased hole extraction at the perovskite/spiro‐OMeTAD interface induces the degradation of PSCs in air. However, this oxygen‐induced degradation of PSCs is reversible to some extent by storing PSCs in a vacuum to remove oxygen. In contrast, no detectable degradation of the perovskite light absorber is observed after ≈600 h of air exposure from the results of morphological and structural characterizations. These aspects provide a deeper understanding of PSCs degradation, giving insight into improving long‐term durability in air in the future.
Blast resistance of single steel‐concrete composite slabs under contact explosion
Authors: Zhao Chunfeng , Chen Yingjie , Jin Qiang , Wang Jingfeng , Li Xiaojie
Published: May 2023

Terrorist attacks or contact explosions could trigger severe damage to structural components or even cause the local or global collapse of the structure in civil engineering and infrastructures. Single‐steel‐concrete (SSC) slabs consist of a concrete core and one steel faceplate combined with shear studs or tie bars that can be applied in resisting explosion or blast load. This paper experimentally and numerically studies the blast performance of the scale SSC specimens under a contact explosion. The damage modes, deflections, and acceleration response of the SSC specimens are obtained and compared by experimental and numerical methods. And then the influences of the explosive, the shear stud length, and the steel plate thickness on the damage modes, acceleration, and displacement response are studied parametrically. It is observed that both of the concrete layers in SSC slabs have crater failure at the impacted surface and steel plates occur local deformation or buckling. No penetrability failure generates in the slabs because of the existence of the steel plate, which can improve the blast resistance and decrease the maximum deflections of the specimens. Finally, an empirical equation is developed to estimate the midspan displacement of the slab using the multivariable regression method (MNRM).
Development of creep and shrinkage prediction models for recycled aggregate concrete
Authors: Rabadia Komal , Aslani Farhad
Published: May 2023

Studies have found utilization of recycled aggregate concrete (RAC) for engineering use to be environmentally favorable by preserving natural resources and limiting waste reduction. However, the use of RAC has not been effectively integrated in the industry due to limited research overlying the critical areas of its creep and shrinkage behavior. Hence, this study aims to investigate the natural aggregate concrete creep and shrinkage prediction models and perform recycled concrete aggregate (RCA) replacement level and water absorption modifications to illustrate the presence and behavior of RAC. Comparative analysis was undertaken by establishing comprehensive conventional concrete and RAC experimental databases and investigating several creep and shrinkage prediction models including, ACI 209R‐92, Bazant–Baweja B3, CEB MC 90, GL 2000, MC 2010, and JSCE 2010. The Bazant–Baweja B3 model was found to present the most optimal results by evaluating each conventional model against the RAC databases and performing regression analysis. Hence, the Bazant–Baweja B3 natural aggregate concrete models for creep and shrinkage were then effectively modified to illustrate the presence of RCA replacement level and water absorption. The adjusted models were verified with a set of experimental databases which successfully presented favourable results with coefficient of correlation factors increased from an average of 0.76 to 0.9.
Recent Advances and Future Perspectives of Lead‐Free Halide Perovskites for Photocatalytic CO2 Reduction
Authors: Qi Fei , Pu Yayun , Wu Daofu , Tang Xiaosheng , Huang Qiang
Published: May 2023

It is still challenging to design and develop the state‐of‐the‐art photocatalysts toward CO2 photoreduction. Enormous researchers have focused on the halide perovskites in the photocatalytic field for CO2 photoreduction, due to their excellent optical and physical properties. The toxicity of lead‐based halide perovskites prevents their large‐scale applications in photocatalytic fields. In consequence, lead‐free halide perovskites (LFHPs) without the toxicity become the promising alternatives in the photocatalytic application for CO2 photoreduction. In recent years, the rapid advances of LFHPs have offer new chances for the photocatalytic CO2 reduction of LFHPs. In this review, we summarize not only the structures and properties of A2BX6, A2B(I)B(III)X6, and A3B2X9‐type LFHPs but also their recent progresses on the photocatalytic CO2 reduction. Furthermore, we also point out the opportunities and perspectives to research LFHPs photocatalysts for CO2 photoreduction in the future.
CircKDM1B promotes hepatocellular carcinoma progression through regulating miR‐1322/PRC1 axis
Authors: Yi Mo , Lv Samei , He Yu , Wu Youwei , Zhang Jian , Chen Qian
Published: May 2023

Background

Circular RNA (circRNA) is considered an important molecular marker for the early diagnosis of tumors and a potential therapeutic target. Herein, we investigated the role and regulatory mechanism of circKDM1B in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

Methods

The expression of circKDM1B, miR‐1322 and Protein regulator of cytokinesis 1 (PRC1) mRNA were determined by quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (qRT‐PCR). Cell counting kit‐8 (CCK8) and 5‐ethynyl‐2′‐deoxyuridine (EdU) staining assays were performed to assess cell proliferation activity. Cell migration and invasion were detected by wound‐healing scratch and transwell assay. Flow cytometry was used to analyze cell apoptosis. The protein levels of PCNA, MMP9, C‐caspase3 and PRC1 were examined using western blot. The binding of circKDM1B and miR‐1322 was verified by dual‐luciferase reporter assay, RNA immunoprecipitation (RIP) and RNA pull down assay.

Results

CircKDM1B was overexpressed in HCC tissues and cells, and its overexpression was related to tumor stage and poor prognosis of HCC patients. Functionally, knockdown of circKDM1B suppressed proliferation, migration, invasion and promoted apoptosis of HCC cells. Mechanistically, circKDM1B functioned as ceRNA of miR‐1322 to upregulate PRC1 in HCC cells. Overexpression of miR‐1322 inhibited proliferation, migration, invasion and facilitated apoptosis of HCC cells, which was partly reversed by PRC1 overexpression. CircKDM1B knockdown impeded HCC tumor growth in vivo.

Conclusion

CircKDM1B played a critical role in HCC progression by regulating cell proliferation, migration, invasion and apoptosis. CircKDM1B/miR‐1322/PRC1 axis might be a novel therapeutic target of HCC patients.
Inclusion of Vietnamese Americans: Opportunities to understand dementia disparities
Authors: Meyer Oanh L. , Park Van Ta , Kanaya Alka M. , Farias Sarah Tomaszewski , Hinton Ladson , Tiet Quyen Q. , Vuong Quyen , Nguyen Stephanie , Harvey Danielle , Whitmer Rachel A.
Published: May 2023

There is a dearth of research on cognitive aging and dementia in Asian Americans, particularly Vietnamese Americans, who are the fourth largest Asian subgroup in the United States. The National Institutes of Health is mandated to make certain that racially and ethnically diverse populations are included in clinical research. Despite the widespread recognition to ensure that research findings can be generalizable to all groups, there are no estimates of the prevalence or incidence of mild cognitive impairment and Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (ADRD) in Vietnamese Americans, nor do we understand ADRD risk and protective factors in this group. In this article, we posit that studying Vietnamese Americans contributes to a better understanding of ADRD in general and offers unique opportunities for elucidating life course and sociocultural factors that contribute to cognitive aging disparities. That is, the unique context of Vietnamese Americans may provide understanding in terms of within‐group heterogeneity and key factors in ADRD and cognitive aging. Here, we provide a brief history of Vietnamese American immigration and describe the large but often ignored heterogeneity of Asian Americans in the United States, elucidate how early life adversity and stress might influence late‐life cognitive aging, and provide a basis for the role of sociocultural and health factors in the study of Vietnamese cognitive aging disparities. Research with older Vietnamese Americans provides a unique and timely opportunity to more fully delineate the factors that contribute to ADRD disparities for all populations.
Performance of cocultivation of Chlorella vulgaris and four different fungi in biogas slurry purification and biogas upgrading by induction of strigolactone (GR24) and endophytic bacteria
Authors: Ji Yuan , Huang Luanbei , Wang Zhengfang , Xu Jie , Wei Jing , Zhao Yongjun
Published: May 2023

This study aimed to determine the best fungi to form the algal‐bacterial‐fungal symbionts and identify the optimal conditions for the synchronous processing of biogas slurry and biogas. Chlorella vulgaris (C. vulgaris) and endophytic bacteria (S395‐2) isolated from it, and four different fungi (Ganoderma lucidum, Pleurotus ostreatus, Pleurotus geesteranus, and Pleurotus corucopiae) were used to form different symbiotic systems. Four different concentrations of GR24 were added to systems to examine the growth characteristics, the content of chlorophyll a (CHL‐a), the activity of carbonic anhydrase (CA), the photosynthetic performance, the removal of nutrients, and the biogas purification performance. The results suggested that the growth rate, CA, CHL‐a content, and photosynthetic performance of the C. vulgaris‐endophytic bacteria‐Ganoderma lucidum symbionts were higher than the other three symbiotic systems when 10−9 M GR24 was added. The highest nutrients/CO2 removal efficiency 78.36 ± 6.98% for chemical oxygen demand (COD), 81.63 ± 7.35% for total nitrogen (TN), 84.05 ± 7.16% for total phosphorus (TP), and 65.18 ± 6.12% for CO2 was obtained under the above optimal conditions. This approach will provide a theoretical basis for the selection and optimization of the algal‐bacterial‐fungal symbionts for biogas slurry and biogas purification.

Practitioner Points

Algae‐bacteria/fungal symbiont presents superior nutrients and CO2 removal capacities.

The maximum CO2 removal efficiency was 65.18 ± 6.12%.

The removal performance was affected by fungi type.
Three-loop matching coefficients for heavy flavor-changing currents and the phenomenological applications
Authors: Tao Wei , Xiao Zhen-Jun , Zhu Ruilin
Published: May 2023

Abstract

Within the framework of non-relativistic QCD (NRQCD) factorization, we compute the matching coefficients between full Quantum Chromodynamics (QCD) and NRQCD for the heavy flavor-changing vector, axial-vector, scalar and pseudo-scalar currents up to next-to-next-to-next-to-leading order (N3LO). We accomplish the analytical expressions for the three-loop renormalization constants and the corresponding anomalous dimensions for all of the four NRQCD currents with two different heavy flavors. The three-loop QCD corrections to the matching coefficients turn out to be significantly larger than lower order corrections. By employing the scale relation, we approximately simulate the N3LO correction to the wave functions at the origin for the vector $$ {B}_c^{\ast } $$

B
c
∗

meson and the pseudo-scalar Bc meson from the known result for the equal-mass heavy quarkonium in potential NRQCD (pNRQCD). We find large cancellations at the third order between the matching coefficients and the wave functions at the origin, and obtain the convergent decay constants of $$ {B}_c^{\ast } $$

B
c
∗

and Bc up to N3LO. We present the complete perturbative QCD predictions for the decay constants, leptonic decay widths, and branching ratios of the beauty-charmed mesons.
Voltage Operations on Maniplexes, Polytopes and Maps
Authors: Hubard Isabel , Mochán Elías , Montero Antonio
Published: May 2023

Classical geometric and topological operations on polyhedra, maps and polytopes often give rise to structures with the same symmetry group as the original one, but with more flags. In this paper we introduce the notion of voltage operations on maniplexes, as a way to unify the study of such operations and generalize them to other geometric and combinatorial structures such as abstract polytopes, hypermaps, maniplexes or hypertopes. This can be done since our technique provides a way to study classical operations in a graph theoretic setting, and thus to apply a voltage operation one only needs that the combinatorial structure in hand can be understood as an n-valent properly n-edge colored graph. For example, in the case of abstract polytopes, the partial order can be encoded into the so-called flag graph of the polytope and the voltage operation is therefore applied to such flag graph to then be recovered as a partial order. We focus on studying the interactions between voltage operations and the symmetries of the operated object, and show that these operations can be potentially used to build maniplexes with prescribed symmetry type graphs. Moreover, a complete characterization of when an operation can be seen as a voltage operation is given.
Heat transfer into the laminar wall jet
Authors: Peters Franz
Published: May 2023

The flow past a flat plate is the predominant reference case in boundary layer studies. Less attention is payed to the closely related wall jet. The reason may be seen in the existence of a real source (nozzle) which involves a virtual origin. We have dealt with the laminar wall jet problem qualitatively and quantitatively in an earlier paper [2]. In the present paper we complement the flow case with heat transfer for constant wall temperature. The equations are derived and adapted to an experiment comprising a water heated cylinder encompassed by a lengthwise wall jet (air) emanating from a circumferential gap. Analytical transfer rates are compared with experimental ones. Agreement is found without any data fitting. Notably the Reynolds number dependence is confirmed which is Re3/4 instead of Re1/2 for the flat plate.
Getriebefedern für einen effizienten und regelbaren Betrieb von Kupplungs- und Bremssystemen in E-Fahrzeugen
Authors: Gürbüz Hüseyin , Bischofberger Arne , Ott Sascha
Published: May 2023

Nasslaufende Lamellenkupplungen und Bremsen bieten in elektrischen Antrieben als Schaltelement für ein Mehrganggetriebe oder als Bremse bei radnahen Antrieben weiterhin große Potenziale, um die Effizienz und Regelbarkeit des Antriebsstrangs zu verbessern.

Dabei wurde in bisherigen Forschungsarbeiten deutlich, dass sich die Durchmesser der nasslaufenden Lamellenkupplungen aufgrund der hohen Drehzahlen verkleinern und im gleichen Zug die Anzahl an Lamellen erhöhen müssen. Dies bringt neue Herausforderungen für die Effizienz und Regelbarkeit des Schaltelements mit sich.

Die vorliegende Arbeit stellt eine Methode vor, um eine Zwangsdistanzierung der Lamellen durch Lamellenseparierungsfedern einzustellen und zum einen die Schleppmomente zu reduzieren und zum anderen die Regelbarkeit solcher Kupplungs- und Bremssysteme zu verbessern.

Hierzu wurden experimentelle Voruntersuchungen am IPEK-Institut für Produktentwicklung an konventionellen Lamellenkupplungen und -bremsen durchgeführt und ein Simulationsmodell für den Einsatz von nasslaufenden Lamellenkupplungen in einem schaltbaren E‑Antrieb mit kleineren Reibdurchmessern und hoher Anzahl an Reiblamellen aufgebaut.

Die experimentellen Untersuchungen beinhalten Schleppmomentuntersuchungen bei zwei unterschiedlichen Getriebetemperaturen und Dynamikuntersuchungen an einer Bremse sowie Untersuchungen zum Drehmomentübertragungsverhalten im Kupplungsbetrieb.

Dabei wurden die Kräfte im Kupplungssystem mittels der Federn variiert und eine Testkombination ermittelt, bei der die Ergebnisse eine deutliche Reduzierung der Drehzahlschwankungen ergeben.

Diese Erkenntnisse wurden bei der Auslegung der Hochdrehzahlkupplung herangezogen und anhand von Simulationsuntersuchungen zum Übertragungsverhalten sowie experimentellen Schleppmomentuntersuchungen bis 20.000 min−1 verifiziert. Die vorgestellte Testmethodik kann in der Produktentwicklung eingesetzt werden, um das Systemverhalten von nasslaufenden Lamellenkupplungen in den Betriebszuständen „offen“ und „synchronisieren“ durch den Einsatz von Lamellenseparierungsfedern zu verbessern und Frontloading zu betreiben.
Diamond-like carbon coating to inner surface of polyurethane tube reduces Staphylococcus aureus bacterial adhesion and biofilm formation
Authors: Kuwada Noriaki , Fujii Yasuhiro , Nakatani Tatsuyuki , Ousaka Daiki , Tsuji Tatsunori , Imai Yuichi , Kobayashi Yasuyuki , Oozawa Susumu , Kasahara Shingo , Tanemoto Kazuo
Published: May 2023

Staphylococcus aureus is one of the main causative bacteria for polyurethane catheter and artificial graft infection. Recently, we developed a unique technique for coating diamond-like carbon (DLC) inside the luminal resin structure of polyurethane tubes. This study aimed to elucidate the infection-preventing effects of diamond-like carbon (DLC) coating on a polyurethane surface against S. aureus. We applied DLC to polyurethane tubes and rolled polyurethane sheets with our newly developed DLC coating technique for resin tubes. The DLC-coated and uncoated polyurethane surfaces were tested in smoothness, hydrophilicity, zeta-potential, and anti-bacterial properties against S. aureus (biofilm formation and bacterial attachment) by contact with bacterial fluids under static and flow conditions. The DLC-coated polyurethane surface was significantly smoother, more hydrophilic, and had a more negative zeta-potential than did the uncoated polyurethane surface. Upon exposure to bacterial fluid under both static and flow conditions, DLC-coated polyurethane exhibited significantly less biofilm formation than uncoated polyurethane, based on absorbance measurements. In addition, the adherence of S. aureus was significantly lower for DLC-coated polyurethane than for uncoated polyurethane under both conditions, based on scanning electron microscopy. These results show that applying DLC coating to the luminal resin of polyurethane tubes may impart antimicrobial effects against S. aureus to implantable medical polyurethane devices, such as vascular grafts and central venous catheters.
Cardiovascular autonomic regulation correlates with cognitive performance in patients with a history of traumatic brain injury
Authors: Wang Ruihao , Muresanu Dafin , Hösl Katharina , Hilz Max J.
Published: May 2023

Background and objective

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) may afflict brain areas contributing to both cardiovascular autonomic regulation and cognitive performance. To evaluate possible associations between both functions in patients with a history of TBI (post-TBI-patients), we determined correlations between cardiovascular autonomic regulation and cognitive function in post-TBI-patients.

Methods

In 86 post-TBI-patients (33.1 ± 10.8 years old, 22 women, 36.8 ± 28.9 months after injury), we monitored RR intervals (RRI), systolic and diastolic blood pressures (BPsys, BPdia), and respiration (RESP) at rest. We calculated parameters of total cardiovascular autonomic modulation (RRI-standard-deviation (RRI-SD), RRI-coefficient-of-variation (RRI-CV), RRI-total-powers), sympathetic (RRI-low-frequency-powers (RRI-LF), normalized (nu) RRI-LF-powers, BPsys-LF-powers) and parasympathetic modulation (root-mean-square-of-successive-RRI-differences (RMSSD), RRI-high-frequency-powers (RRI-HF), RRI-HFnu-powers), sympathetic-parasympathetic balance (RRI-LF/HF-ratios), and baroreflex sensitivity (BRS). We used the Mini-Mental State Examination and Clock Drawing Test (CDT) to screen the general global and visuospatial cognitive function, and applied the standardized Trail Making Test (TMT)-A assessing visuospatial abilities and TMT-B assessing executive function. We calculated correlations between autonomic and cognitive parameters (Spearman’s rank correlation test; significance: P < 0.05).

Results

CDT values positively correlated with age (P = 0.013). TMT-A values inversely correlated with RRI-HF-powers (P = 0.033) and BRS (P = 0.043), TMT-B values positively correlated with RRI-LFnu-powers (P = 0.015), RRI-LF/HF-ratios (P = 0.036), and BPsys-LF-powers (P = 0.030), but negatively with RRI-HFnu-powers (P = 0.015).

Conclusions

In patients with a history of TBI, there is an association between decreased visuospatial and executive cognitive performance and reduced parasympathetic cardiac modulation and baroreflex sensitivity with relatively increased sympathetic activity. Altered autonomic control bears an increased cardiovascular risk; cognitive impairment compromises quality of life and living conditions. Thus, both functions should be monitored in post-TBI-patients.
“As a psychiatry resident I am invited to explore my identity. But when I accept that invitation, I still encounter a wall.” A qualitative study on inclusion experienced by psychiatry residents with a migration background, sexual minority identity and/or working-class background
Authors: Muller Donna Piëtra , Verdonk Petra , van de Grift Timotheüs Cornelis , de Koning Mariken Beatrijs
Published: May 2023

Diversity in terms of class, sexual identity and migration background among medical students in high income countries has increased greatly in recent decades. Some research into the experiences of these new groups of doctors has been performed. However, no previous research into the experiences of psychiatry residents specifically, is known. This qualitative study investigates how psychiatry residents, from these minoritized groups, experience their training regarding inclusion. Inclusion is defined as the degree to which one’s needs for connection and for being valued in one’s uniqueness, is satisfied. In-depth interviews with 16 psychiatry residents were conducted. These interviews were transcribed and coded using MaxQDA software. Initial themes that were constructed, were explored further in subsequent interviews and linked to literature. Finally, the developed themes were ordered in a model conceptualizing inclusion. Participants reported high belongingness within psychiatry training. Their experienced value in uniqueness, however, was generally quite low. Participants reported to experience little interest in and sensitivity for their perspectives and lived experiences from their co-workers. When faced with stigmatization and discrimination, participants reported lack of support from their colleagues. Assimilation was found to be the most frequently used coping strategy in dealing with diversity. Participants seemed to conform to the ‘neutral’ norm and experienced barriers in expressing themselves. Through this mechanism of assimilation, the added value that participants might bring with their unique knowledge and lived experiences was not used, both in patient care and in creating an inclusive climate within the organization. Moreover, assimilation is associated with psychological strain.
Microbial responses to soil cooling might explain increases in microbial biomass in winter
Authors: Schnecker Jörg , Spiegel Felix , Li Yue , Richter Andreas , Sandén Taru , Spiegel Heide , Zechmeister-Boltenstern Sophie , Fuchslueger Lucia
Published: May 2023

In temperate, boreal and arctic soil systems, microbial biomass often increases during winter and decreases again in spring. This build-up and release of microbial carbon could potentially lead to a stabilization of soil carbon during winter times. Whether this increase is caused by changes in microbial physiology, in community composition, or by changed substrate allocation within microbes or communities is unclear. In a laboratory incubation study, we looked into microbial respiration and growth, as well as microbial glucose uptake and carbon resource partitioning in response to cooling. Soils taken from a temperate beech forest and temperate cropland system in October 2020, were cooled down from field temperature of 11 °C to 1 °C. We determined microbial growth using 18O-incorporation into DNA after the first two days of cooling and after an acclimation phase of 9 days; in addition, we traced 13C-labelled glucose into microbial biomass, CO2 respired from the soil, and into microbial phospholipid fatty acids (PLFAs). Our results show that the studied soil microbial communities responded strongly to soil cooling. The 18O data showed that growth and cell division were reduced when soils were cooled from 11 to 1 °C. Total respiration was also reduced but glucose uptake and glucose-derived respiration were unchanged. We found that microbes increased the investment of glucose-derived carbon in unsaturated phospholipid fatty acids at colder temperatures. Since unsaturated fatty acids retain fluidity at lower temperatures compared to saturated fatty acids, this could be interpreted as a precaution to reduced temperatures. Together with the maintained glucose uptake and reduced cell division, our findings show an immediate response of soil microorganisms to soil cooling, potentially to prepare for freezing events. The discrepancy between C uptake and cell division could explain previously observed high microbial biomass carbon in temperate soils in winter.
Fully discrete heterogeneous multiscale method for parabolic problems with multiple spatial and temporal scales
Authors: Eckhardt Daniel , Verfürth Barbara
Published: May 2023

The aim of this work is the numerical homogenization of a parabolic problem with several time and spatial scales using the heterogeneous multiscale method. We replace the actual cell problem with an alternate one, using Dirichlet boundary and initial values instead of periodic boundary and time conditions. Further, we give a detailed a priori error analysis of the fully discretized, i.e., in space and time for both the macroscopic and the cell problem, method. Numerical experiments illustrate the theoretical convergence rates.
Association between birth characteristics and incidence of pituitary adenoma and craniopharyngioma: a registry-based study in California, 2001–2015
Authors: Cote David J. , Wang Rong , Morimoto Libby M. , Metayer Catherine , Zada Gabriel , Wiemels Joseph L. , Ma Xiaomei
Published: May 2023

Purpose

To evaluate the association between birth characteristics, including parental sociodemographic characteristics, and early-onset pituitary adenoma (PA) and craniopharyngioma.

Methods

Leveraging the population-based California Linkage Study of Early-onset Cancers, we identified the birth characteristics of incident cases with PA (n = 1,749) or craniopharyngioma (n = 227) who were born from 1978 to 2015 and diagnosed 1988–2015, as well as controls in a 50:1 ratio matched on birth year. Adjusted odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) estimates were computed using unconditional multivariable logistic regression.

Results

Males had a lower risk of PA than females (OR = 0.37, 95%CI: 0.34–0.41), and Black (OR = 1.55, 95%CI: 1.30–1.84) or Hispanic (OR = 1.53, 95%CI: 1.34–1.74) individuals had a higher risk compared to non-Hispanic Whites. Older maternal age was positively associated with PA (OR = 1.09, 95%CI: 1.04–1.15 per 5 years, p < 0.01), as was higher maternal education (OR = 1.12, 95%CI: 1.04–1.20 per year, p < 0.01). There were no statistically significant associations between birthweight (OR = 1.04, 95%CI: 0.99–1.09 per 500 g, p = 0.12), birth plurality, or birth order and PA. When stratified by race and ethnicity, the significant association with maternal education was identified only for non-Hispanic White individuals. On multivariable logistic regression, no statistically significant associations were identified between birth characteristics and incidence of craniopharyngioma, except that risk was higher among Hispanic (OR = 1.45, 95%CI: 1.01–2.08) compared to non-Hispanic White individuals.

Conclusion

In this large, population-based study, female sex, older maternal age, higher maternal education, and Hispanic ethnicity and Black race compared to non-Hispanic White race, were associated with an increased risk of PA in children and young adults.
A new, evidence-based, theory for knowledge reuse in security risk analysis
Authors: Labunets Katsiaryna , Massacci Fabio , Paci Federica , Tuma Katja
Published: May 2023

Security risk analysis (SRA) is a key activity in software engineering but requires heavy manual effort. Community knowledge in the form of security patterns or security catalogs can be used to support the identification of threats and security controls. However, no evidence-based theory exists about the effectiveness of security catalogs when used for security risk analysis. We adopt a grounded theory approach to propose a conceptual, revised and refined theory of SRA knowledge reuse. The theory refinement is backed by evidence gathered from conducting interviews with experts (20) and controlled experiments with both experts (15) and novice analysts (18). We conclude the paper by providing insights into the use of catalogs and managerial implications.
Impacts of residual 3D printing metal powders on immunological response and bone regeneration: an in vivo study
Authors: Tang Jincheng , Sang Zhuo , Zhang Xiaolei , Song Changhui , Tang Wei , Luo Xiaoping , Yan Ming
Published: May 2023

Residual powder is a defect in powder bed fusion-based additive manufacturing (3D printing), and it is difficult to completely remove it from as-printed materials. In addition, it is not necessary to apply 3D printed implants with residual powder in the clinic. The immunological response triggered by the residual powder is an important area of study in medical research. To further understand the possible immunological reactions and hidden dangers caused by residual powders in vivo, this study compared the immunological reactions and osteolysis caused by typical powders for four implant materials: 316 L stainless steel, CoCrMo, CP-Ti, and Ti-6Al-4V (particle size range of 15–45 μm), in a mouse skull model. Furthermore, the possible immunological responses and bone regeneration induced by the four 3D printed implants with residual powder in a rat femur model were compared. In the mouse skull model, it was found that the 316L-S, CoCrMo-S, and especially the 316L-M powders, upregulated the expression of pro-inflammatory factors, increased the ratio of RANKL/OPG, and activated more functional osteoclasts, resulting in more severe bone resorption compared with those in other groups. In the rat femur model, which is more suitable for clinical practice, there is no bone resorption in implants with residual powders, but they show good bone regeneration and integration ability because of their original roughness. The results indicate that the expressions of inflammatory cytokines in all experimental groups were the same as those in the control group, showing good biological safety. The results answered some critical questions related to additively manufactured medical materials in vivo and indicated that as-printed implants may have great potential in future clinical applications.

Graphical Abstract