bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Soil warming by electrical underground transmission lines impacts temporal dynamics of soil temperature and moisture
Authors: Emmerling Christoph , Hoffmann Celine , Herzog Maren , Schieber Benjamin , Stöckhert Ferdinand , Koschel Sebastian , Kurtenacker Michael , Trüby Peter
Published: July 2024

Background

The current transformation of the entire energy system leads to a large‐scale expansion of extra‐high‐voltage underground transmission lines (UTL). Knowledge of the impact on soil temperature and soil moisture dynamics is fundamental for environmental evaluation.

Aims

We investigated the impact of an existing 320 kV underground cable in continuous operation on soil temperature and moisture dynamics.

Methods

A soil‐monitoring programme was established at four study sites in Western Germany. Data were continuously recorded in soil up to 120 cm depth using soil sensors over a period of 1 year.

Results

Soil warming was in a range of 0.6 K in the topsoil, approx. 1–1.3 K in the rooting zone and 1.7 K in the subsoil at 120 cm depth and was restricted mainly to the immediate vicinity of the cable route. Likewise, the impact on soil moisture dynamics was on average in a range of −1.00 wt.‐% in 0–60 cm depth and −2.45 wt. 2‐% in the subsoil relative to control. Although at a calculated maximum load capacity of 100% in regular operation, soil warming might remain moderate, with 1.5 K in the topsoil, 2.3–3.1 K in the rooting zone and 4.1 K in the subsoil.

Conclusions

It is assumed that the reasons for the low‐to‐moderate influence of the UTL are to be found in the operational cable load (on average 65%), heat loss of cables (approx. 12 W m−1 per cable) and the quality of the imbedding material for the cables.
Feeding practices and weight status of children with congenital Zika syndrome: A longitudinal study in Brazil
Authors: Frawley Hannah E. , Andrews Sara M. , Wheeler Anne C. , Nobrega Lucélia L. , Firmino Raine C. B. , da Silva Claudia M. , Bezerra Pollyanna , Ventura Camila V. , Cavalcanti Andre , Williams Jason , Flax Valerie L.
Published: July 2024

Objective

The objective of this study was to describe feeding practices and weight status in a cohort of children with congenital Zika syndrome (CZS) in northeastern Brazil.

Methods

This longitudinal study of children with CZS (N = 156) included data collection on child feeding practices and weight status at five timepoints between 2018 and 2022. The average age of the children was 32.1 months at enrollment and 76.6 months at the fifth assessment. Multilevel models, with repeated observations nested within children, were used to estimate time‐related differences in each outcome.

Results

Use of enteral feeding, such as gastrostomy, increased from 19.2% to 33.3% over 4 years (p < .001). Among children who did not exclusively use an enteral feeding method, the percentage experiencing at least one dysphagia‐associated behavior, such as coughing or gagging, increased from 73.9% to 85.3% (p = .030) while consuming liquids and from 36.2% to 73.5% (p = .001) while consuming solids. Based on weight‐for‐age z‐scores, the percentage of children who were moderately or severely underweight increased from 42.5% to 46.1% over the 4 years but was not statistically significant. Children exclusively using an enteral feeding method had significantly decreased odds of being underweight at assessments 3, 4, and 5.

Conclusions

These data highlight the ongoing and increasing challenges of feeding young children with CZS. Our findings elucidate the physiological reasons children with CZS may be underweight and point to intervention targets, such as enteral feeding, to improve their feeding practices.
Cleantech incubators within the sustainable entrepreneurial ecosystem: Fundraising sources, income generation strategies, and the role of public support
Authors: Pierrakis Yannis , Ivanova Anna , Chawdhary Rahul
Published: July 2024

This paper explores the different financial viability strategies adopted by cleantech incubators (CTIs) located in both high‐income and medium‐ and low‐income countries. More specifically, we focus on three interrelated research questions: (i) What are the most common funding sources for CTIs, and how do they differ between high‐income and medium‐ and low‐income countries? (ii) What income generation strategies do they employ to achieve financial viability? (iii) What appears to be the main influence on whether or not a CTI adapts suitable strategies to achieve financial viability? The study uses data from 71 CTIs and interviews with 11 cleantech incubator managers. Although the vast majority of the examined CTIs rely on public funding, our results suggest that high levels of fundraising and income diversification strategies are requirements for securing financial viability. In addition, higher levels of government involvement appear to correlate with fewer income diversification strategies, whereas lower levels of government involvement increase the likelihood of the incubator's proclivity to pursue different fundraising and income generation revenues.
Structural and sensory characteristics of ultrasonic assisted wet‐heating Maillard reaction products of Giant salamander protein hydrolysates
Authors: He Fan‐Yu , Zhu Xing‐Tong , Liu Hui , Chong Yun‐Qing , Wu Zhi‐Ping , Ye Lu‐Jun , Chen Yue‐Wen , Fu Jing‐Jing
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND

Chinese giant salamander protein hydrolysates (CGSPH) are beneficial to human health as a result of their high content of amino acids and peptides. However, the formation of bitter peptides in protein hydrolysates (PHs) would hinder their application in food industry. The ultrasound assisted wet‐heating Maillard reaction (MR) is an effective way to improve the flavor of PHs. Thus, the effect of ultrasonic assisted wet‐heating MR on the structure and flavor of CGSPH was investigated in the present study.

RESULTS

The results indicated that the ultrasound assisted wet‐heating MR products (MRPs) exhibited a higher degree of graft and more significant changes in the secondary and tertiary structures of CGSPH compared to traditional wet‐heating MRPs. Moreover, ultrasound assisted wet‐heating MR could significantly increase the content of small molecule peptides and reduce the content of free amino acids of CGSPH, which resulted in more significant changes in flavor characteristics. The changed in flavor properties after MR (especially ultrasound assisted wet‐heating MRPs) were mainly manifested by a significant reduction in bitterness, as well as a significant increase in the content of aromatic aldehyde ester compounds such as furan‐2‐carbaldehyde, butanal, benzaldehyde, furfural, etc.

CONCLUSIONS

Ultrasound assisted wet‐heating MR between CGSPH and xylose could be a promising way to improve the sensory characteristics of CGSPH. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Experimental confirmation and bioinformatics reveal biomarkers of immune system infiltration and hypertrophy ligamentum flavum
Authors: Liu Fei , Zhong Min , Yang Lei , Song Chao , Chen Chaoqi , Xu Zhiwei , Zhang Chi , Li Zhifa , Wu Xiaofei , Jiang Chen , Chen Feng , Yan Qian
Published: July 2024

Background

Hypertrophy ligamentum flavum is a prevalent chronic spinal condition that affects middle‐aged and older adults. However, the molecular pathways behind this disease are not well comprehended.

Objective

The objective of this work is to implement bioinformatics techniques in order to identify crucial biological markers and immune infiltration that are linked to hypertrophy ligamentum flavum. Further, the study aims to experimentally confirm the molecular mechanisms that underlie the hypertrophy ligamentum flavum.

Methods

The corresponding gene expression profiles (GSE113212) were selected from a comprehensive gene expression database. The gene dataset for hypertrophy ligamentum flavum was acquired from GeneCards. A network of interactions between proteins was created, and an analysis of functional enrichment was conducted using the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) and Gene Ontology (GO) databases. An study of hub genes was performed to evaluate the infiltration of immune cells in patient samples compared to tissues from the control group. Finally, samples of the ligamentum flavum were taken with the purpose of validating the expression of important genes in a clinical setting.

Results

Overall, 27 hub genes that were differently expressed were found through molecular biology. The hub genes were found to be enriched in immune response, chemokine‐mediated signaling pathways, inflammation, ossification, and fibrosis processes, as demonstrated by GO and KEGG studies. The main signaling pathways involved include the TNF signaling pathway, cytokine–cytokine receptor interaction, and TGF‐β signaling pathway. An examination of immunocell infiltration showed notable disparities in B cells (naïve and memory) and activated T cells (CD4 memory) between patients with hypertrophic ligamentum flavum and the control group of healthy individuals. The in vitro validation revealed markedly elevated levels of ossification and fibrosis‐related components in the hypertrophy ligamentum flavum group, as compared to the normal group.

Conclusion

The TGF‐β signaling pathway, TNF signaling pathway, and related hub genes play crucial roles in the progression of ligamentum flavum hypertrophic. Our study may guide future research on fibrosis of the ligamentum flavum.
Facet deflection and strain are dependent on axial compression and distraction in C5–C7 spinal segments under constrained flexion
Authors: Foroutan Parham , Quarrington Ryan D. , Russo Michael Pyrros , Ding Boyin , Cripton Peter A. , Costi John J. , Jones Claire F.
Published: July 2024

Background

Facet fractures are frequently associated with clinically observed cervical facet dislocations (CFDs); however, to date there has only been one experimental study, using functional spinal units (FSUs), which has systematically produced CFD with concomitant facet fracture. The role of axial compression and distraction on the mechanical response of the cervical facets under intervertebral motions associated with CFD in FSUs has previously been shown. The same has not been demonstrated in multi‐segment lower cervical spine specimens under flexion loading (postulated to be the local injury vector associated with CFD).

Methods

This study investigated the mechanical response of the bilateral inferior C6 facets of thirteen C5‐C7 specimens (67±13 yr, 6 male) during non‐destructive constrained flexion, superimposed with each of five axial conditions: (1) 50 N compression (simulating weight of the head); (2‐4) 300, 500, and 1000 N compression (simulating the spectrum of intervertebral compression resulting from neck muscle bracing prior to head‐first impact and/or externally applied compressive forces); and, (5) 2 mm of C6/C7 distraction (simulating the intervertebral distraction present during inertial loading of the cervical spine by the weight of the head). Linear mixed‐effects models (α = 0.05) assessed the effect of axial condition.

Results

Increasing amounts of intervertebral compression superimposed on flexion rotations, resulted in increased facet surface strains (range of estimated mean difference relative to Neutral: maximum principal = 77 to 110 με, minimum principal = 126 to 293 με, maximum shear = 203 to 375 με) and angular deflection of the bilateral inferior C6 facets relative to the C6 vertebral body (range of estimated mean difference relative to Neutral = 0.59° to 1.47°).

Conclusions

These findings suggest increased facet engagement and higher load transfer through the facet joint, and potentially a higher likelihood of facet fracture under the compressed axial conditions.
Attitude towards service robots in tourism and hospitality services settings — The effect of multidimensional anthropomorphism and technology readiness
Authors: Baltaci Furkan , Başer Miraç Yücel , Çelik Mazlum
Published: July 2024

The use of technology in tourism is increasing day by day. Service robots are now on the agenda. The success of developments that envisage a new experience for consumer tourists depends on the accurate prediction of tourists' possible attitudes and behaviors and the influencing antecedents. This study examined consumer tourists' attitudes and usage intentions towards service robots on the multidimensional basis of anthropomorphism and technological readiness (TR). A survey was conducted with 1018 tourists in Türkiye face‐to‐face and using QR codes. Findings showed that attitude towards service robots (AR) mediated the relationship between anthropomorphism, technological readiness and intention to use (IS). Participating tourists anthropomorphically focused on the physical appearance of the robots rather than their functions and internal structures. Service robot experience is still limited in the tourism industry. Therefore, the empirical results obtained are guiding theory and practice in terms of academic studies and tourism service providers.
Validation and cross‐cultural adaptation of the Arabic version of the Ear Outcome Survey‐16 (EOS‐16)
Authors: Azar Adel , Mohsen Samer
Published: July 2024

Background

The Ear Outcome Survey‐16 (EOS‐16) has been validated according to the health‐related quality of life (HRQol) survey guidelines. It has important compatible aspects in evaluating patients with chronic otitis media (COM) suitable for consultation. This study aimed to develop and standardize the Arabic version of the EOS‐16 to be used by clinicians in the Arab world while maintaining the conceptual equivalence.

Methods

A prospective cross‐sectional study was conducted in Damascus between July 2023 and November 2023 to develop an Arabic version of the EOS‐16. The translation was produced according to the cross‐cultural adaptation guidelines. Both experts' and participants' opinions as regards face validity were obtained in this study. Internal consistency was evaluated by the Cronbach alpha coefficient. Test–retest reliability was assessed using the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and Pearson correlation.

Results

A total of 81 patients enrolled in the study, with an average age of 34.75 years and a standard deviation of 11.84 years with a sex ratio of 0.62 for females. All had inactive mucosal COM (dry perforation). The overall score of the EOS‐16 survey was 31.72 with a standard deviation of 13.42 suggesting bothering and influencing symptoms in COM patient's daily life. Excellent internal consistency was noted (Cronbach α = .89). Robust correlation was found between test–retest overall scores (r = .90). Reallocation of the items of the EOS‐16 improved the internal consistency of the subdivisions in COM patients.

Conclusion

The Arabic version of the EOS‐16 is a simple, clear, reliable, reproducible, and valid HRQoL survey. It is a useful and important instrument that helps physicians in making decisions regarding the patient's treatment and follow‐up.
Determination of Propagation Rate Coefficients of 2‐Hydroxyethyl Methacrylate in Aqueous Solution
Authors: Li Yuxiao , Liu Wentao , Liu Kan , Wang Qingyue , Li Xiaohui , Mastan Erlita , Wu Yuanfeng , Liu Pingwei , Peng Bo , Lim Khak Ho , Wang Wen‐Jun
Published: July 2024

Mechanistic understanding of free radical polymerization (FRP) in aqueous solution is hindered by the lack of kinetic coefficient data. Here, we investigated the propagation rate coefficient (kp) for FRP of HEMA in aqueous solution. The kp at 80 °C increased by 6 times as the monomer weight fraction in aqueous system decreases from 100 wt.% to 6 wt.%, that is., from 6.0 × 103 to 3.3 × 104 L·moL−1·s−1. This increase in kp is associated with the increase in pre‐exponential factor (A), which suggests an increase in entropy with increasing water molecules in the polymerization system. To investigate the effect of solvent on kp, pulse‐laser polymerization in solvents of different hydrogen bonding affinity, that is, 50 wt.% butyl propionate (BP) and dimethyl formamide (DMF), are conducted. The kp obtained are in order of kp,bulk∼kp,BP > kp,DMF, suggesting that the intermolecular hydrogen bonding at carbonyl moieties critically affects the geometry of transition state quasi‐equilibrium in propagation. We underpinned this observation by analyzing the carbonyl and alkene moieties of HEMA in different solvents using infrared (IR) spectroscopy. The mechanistic analyses and insights relating to hydrogen bonding and functional moieties can be relevant for future studies involving non‐aqueous solvents promoting hydrogen bonds.
Sustainable Silica‐Carbon Nanofiber Hybrid Composite Anodes for Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Beaucamp Anne , Calvo Amaia Moreno , Bowman Deaglán , Techouyeres Clotilde , Nulty David Mc , Lizundia Erlantz , Collins Maurice N.
Published: July 2024

Alternative anode materials with increased theoretical specific capacities are under scrutinity as a replacement to graphite in lithium‐ion batteries (LiBs). Silicon oxides offer increased capacities compared to graphite and do not suffer the same level of material expansion as pure Si. Consequently, they are an intermediate commercial anode material, on the pathway toward pure Si anodes. In this study, stable Silica/carbon (SiO2/C) nanofibers are successfully developed from tetraethyl orthosilicate (TEOS) using poly(vinylpyrrolidone) (PVP). The fibers show excellent stability after calcination, with silica evenly dispersed within the fibers exhibiting a surface area of 327 m2 g−1. This study demonstrates that the electrochemical performance of SiO2/C composite anodes is significantly influenced by the silica content. SiO2/C composites with ≈68 at% SiO2 achieve reversible capacities of 315.6 and 300.9 mAh g−1, after the 2nd, and 800th cycles, respectively, at a specific current of 100 mA g−1, with a remarkable capacity retention of 95.3%. In a second stage, lignin is added as a potential nanostructuring agent. The addition of lignin to the sample reduces the amount of silica without significantly impacting its performance and stability. Tailoring the composition of SiO2/C composite anodes enables stable capacity retention over the course of hundreds of cycles.
A Short Progressive Supranuclear Palsy Quality of Life Scale
Authors: Wilkens Ida , Stiel Stephanie , Bebermeier Sarah , Schrag Anette , Greten Stephan , Doll‐Lee Johanna , Wegner Florian , Ye Lan , Heine Johanne , Krey Lea , Höllerhage Matthias , Süß Patrick , Winkler Jürgen , Berg Daniela , Paschen Steffen , Tönges Lars , Gruber Doreen , Gandor Florin , Jost Wolfgang H. , Kühn Andrea A. , Claus Inga , Warnecke Tobias , Pedrosa David J. , Eggers Carsten , Trenkwalder Claudia , Classen Joseph , Schwarz Johannes , Pötter‐Nerger Monika , Kassubek Jan , Schnitzler Alfons , Höglinger Günter U. , Klietz Martin
Published: July 2024

Objective

The Progressive Supranuclear Palsy quality of life scale (PSP‐QoL) has been shown to be a useful tool for capturing health‐related quality of life of patients in “everyday life” and in progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) research. However, at 45 items in length, the questionnaire can take a long time, exhausting PSP patients, in particular if cognitive impaired, which can have a negative impact on the assessment. The aim of this study was to establish a condensed version of the PSP‐QoL for research and routine clinical care.

Methods

In this retrospective study, data originating from a German cohort of PSP patients was analyzed. Data from 245 PSP patients were included in this study. The short PSP‐QoL questionnaire was created using a two‐factor solution and item‐total and inter‐item correlations for mental and physical aspects of daily living of the PSP‐QoL followed by confirmatory factor analysis.

Results

The final scale included 12 items representing mental (five items) and physical symptoms (seven items). The specified two‐factor model displayed an excellent fit in the confirmatory factor analysis. The short Progressive Supranuclear Palsy Quality of Life scale (PSP‐ShoQoL) correlated moderately with the PSP Rating Scale (r [243] = 0.514, P < 0.001) and Geriatric depression scale (r [231] = 0.548, P < 0.001). Sensitivity to change confirmed a significant decrease in QoL after 12 months.

Discussion

In this study, we created a 12‐item PSP‐ShoQoL designed to “facilitate” daily clinical work that correlated strongly with the PSP‐QoL and was sensitive to change. © 2024 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
Parent–provider communication dynamics during the pediatric oncology diagnostic process in Guatemala: A qualitative study
Authors: Williams Anneliese H. , Welcome Bria , Rivas Silvia , Fuentes Lucia , Cáceres‐Serrano Ana , Ferrara Gia , Reeves Tegan , Antillon‐Klussmann Federico , Rodriguez‐Galindo Carlos , Mack Jennifer W. , Graetz Dylan E.
Published: July 2024

Background

Effective communication is founded on bidirectional participation from families and healthcare providers. In adult medicine, bidirectional communication promotes treatment adherence and builds the family–provider relationship. However, the relationship between communication styles in pediatrics remains poorly understood, particularly in culturally diverse settings. This study aims to investigate parent–provider communication dynamics and parental involvement during diagnostic cancer communication in Guatemala.

Procedure

This qualitative study included 20 families of children with cancer and 10 providers at Unidad Nacional de Oncología Pediátrica in Guatemala. Psychoeducation and diagnostic conversations between parents, psychologists, and oncologists were recorded and thematically analyzed using a priori and novel codes exploring communication behaviors, parental engagement, and interpersonal dynamics.

Results

Participating parents had children with various diagnoses. Only 15% of fathers and 5% of mothers reported education beyond primary school. Providers spoke 68% of words during psychoeducation and 85% of words during diagnosis conversations. Providers used supportive communication behaviors providing explanations, demonstrating verbal attentiveness, and soliciting questions and non‐supportive behaviors including paternalistic talk. Parental participation was considered active when they asked questions, expressed hopes or concerns, or asserted their opinions, and non‐active when participation was limited to brief responses to closed‐ended questions. Supportive provider communication often encouraged active participation; non‐supportive communication did not. Furthermore, active parental participation prompted supportive communication from providers, while non‐active participation did not.

Conclusions

Our findings highlight the bidirectional nature of effective communication, establishing that provider communication styles both influence and are influenced by parental participation, and emphasizing the importance of supportive provider communication for patient‐centered care.
Penetration, expansion and corrosion behavior of fiber reinforced pipe in fluid containing supercritical CO2
Authors: Wang Guanhui , Qiu Jiajun , Jia Jin , Han Runlin , Li Xiaodan , Liu Xuanyong , Xiao Lin , Zhang Dongxing
Published: July 2024

Supercritical CO2 (sc‐CO2) was widely used in CO2 flooding projects to enhance the recovery efficiency recently owing to its amazing dissolving capability and permeability. Fiber reinforced pipe (FRP) has exceptional properties that may be widely used in the petrochemical sector for transportation of corrosive fluid in CO2 flooding projects. In this research, a system was designed to simulate the transport behavior of fluids containing CO2 which can reaches the supercritical state by the adjustment of pressure and temperature. The fluid penetrates into the resin interior through the pores and gathers in the cavities at 65°C and 8 MPa. When the temperature and pressure are below the critical point, the CO2 volume expands dramatically, causing inter‐layered micro‐crack. When the environmental conditions repeatedly change above and below the critical point, these cracks will continue to propagate along the fiber arrangement direction, resulting in the fracture progressively grow into the delamination. At the same time, the fluid corrodes the resin in some areas of the surface, generating pitting and a 0.66% loss in resin content. The composition of elements and groups altered after corrosion revealed that a chemical interaction occurred between fluid and epoxy resin. Finally, due to physical and chemical processes produced by penetration, expansion, and dissolution, the stiffness of FRP fell by 3.53% during treatment.

Highlights

In the present work, a reactor coated with polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) was built to model the corrosion of FRP in delivery fluids containing sc‐CO2. The corrosion mechanism was shown as a combination action by chemical react and physical behavior comprising penetration, expansion and dissolution.

The physical corrosion mechanism of fluid containing sc‐CO2 was investigated. The fluid containing sc‐CO2 penetrated the FRP via pores and accumulated in cavities. The quick expansion of sc‐CO2 causes delamination while the ambient circumstances remain below the critical threshold. The pitting and resin loss can be linked to the epoxy resin solution in supercritical CO2.

The chemical process, known as hydrolysis, took place on the interior surface of epoxy resin and a fluid containing supercritical CO2. This finally resulted in molecular structural modification.
Combination of taking neuropsychiatric medications and psychological distress in pregnant women, with behavioral problems in children at 2 years of age: The Tohoku Medical Megabank Project Birth and Three‐Generation Cohort Study
Authors: Takahashi Ippei , Obara Taku , Kikuchi Saya , Kobayashi Natsuko , Obara Ryo , Noda Aoi , Ohsawa Minoru , Ishikawa Tomofumi , Mano Nariyasu , Nishigori Hidekazu , Ueno Fumihiko , Shinoda Genki , Murakami Keiko , Orui Masatsugu , Ishikuro Mami , Tomita Hiroaki , Kuriyama Shinichi
Published: July 2024

Aim

To examine the association of the combination of taking neuropsychiatric medications from the onset of pregnancy to mid‐pregnancy and maternal psychological distress at mid‐pregnancy, with children's behavioral problems.

Methods

Neuropsychiatric medication use from the onset of pregnancy to mid‐pregnancy was defined by the self‐reported name of the neuropsychiatric medication in the questionnaire in early and mid‐pregnancy. Maternal psychological distress was defined by the Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (K6) ≥13 on the questionnaire in mid‐pregnancy. We classified the participants into four categories based on the combination of taking neuropsychiatric medications and psychological distress: “None,” “Medications only,” “K6 ≥ 13 only,” and “Both.” Children's behavioral problems were assessed using the Child Behavior Checklist for Ages 1½–5 (CBCL) at 2 years of age. The clinical ranges of the internalizing and externalizing scales of the CBCL were defined as behavioral problems. We conducted a multivariable logistic regression analysis to examine the associations between the four categories of maternal exposure and children's behavioral problems.

Results

Compared with the “None” category (n = 9873), the “K6 ≥ 13 only” category (n = 308) was statistically significantly associated with internalizing and externalizing problems. In contrast, the “Medications only” (n = 93) and “Both” (n = 22) categories were not statistically significantly associated with internalizing and externalizing problems, although the point estimates of the odds ratio in the “Both” category were relatively high (1.58 for the internalizing problem and 2.50 for the externalizing problem).

Conclusion

The category of mothers taking neuropsychiatric medications and having no psychological distress during pregnancy was not associated with children's behavioral problems in the present population.
Software reliability prediction: A machine learning and approximation Bayesian inference approach
Authors: Oveisi Shahrzad , Moeini Ali , Mirzaei Sayeh , Farsi Mohammad Ali
Published: July 2024

Reliability growth models are commonly categorized into two primary groups: parametric and non‐parametric models. Parametric models, known as Software Reliability Growth Models (SRGM) rely on a set of hypotheses that can potentially affect the accuracy of model predictions, while non‐parametric models (such as neural networks) can predict the model solely based on training data without any assumptions regarding the model itself. In this paper, we propose several methods to enhance prediction accuracy in software reliability context. More specifically, we, on one hand, introduce two gradient‐based techniques for estimating parameters of classical SRGMs. On the other, we propose methods involving LSTM Encoder–Decoder and Bayesian approximation within Langevin Gradient and Variational inference neural networks. To evaluate our proposed models' performance, we compare them with various neural network‐based software reliability models using three real‐world software failure datasets and utilizing the Mean Square Error (MSE) as a model comparison criterion. The experimental results indicate that our proposed non‐parametric models outperform most classical parametric and non‐parametric models.
Adaptive fuzzy event‐triggered fault‐tolerant control for time‐varying delay switched nonlinear systems with actuator and sensor failures
Authors: Wang Fang , Li Shi
Published: July 2024

This article addresses the problem of adaptive fault‐tolerant event‐triggered control (ETC) for time‐varying delay switched nonlinear systems (SNSs) with actuator and sensor failures. First, in order to address the unknown actuator failures, a fault compensation coefficient is introduced. Then, a mode‐dependent state observer is established to estimate the unknown states. The unknown nonlinear function is approximated by the usage of fuzzy logic systems (FLS). In addition, the Lyapunov–Krasovskii functions are utilized to discuss the influence of time‐varying delays. Then, an adaptive fuzzy fault‐tolerant ETC and a novel event‐triggering mechanism (ETM) are derived. It is proved that the proposed fault‐tolerant controller can ensure that all states of the closed‐loop system (CLS) are semi‐globally uniformly ultimately bounded (SGUUB) by average dwell time (ADT) constraints and the Zeno phenomenon can be excluded. Results of two simulation examples verify that the proposed control method is effective.
Investigation on Anti‐plasmodial Agents Against wild‐type PfDHFR Through In Silico Computational Tools
Authors: Parikh Rajsi V. , Pandya Disha V. , Salaria Punam , M. Amarendar Reddy , Vyas Vivek K. , Bhatt Hardik G. , Dhameliya Tejas M.
Published: July 2024

Malaria is the most severe and common parasitic infection, with P. falciparum responsible for the majority of cases and deaths each year. As anti‐malarial drug resistance continues to increase, novel compounds with anti‐ P. falciparum activity must be identified. In search of a new molecule to cure the resistant malarial parasite, a total of 1,70,269 ligands from the Asinex BioDesign library 2021.2 were virtually screened using AutoDock Vina against wild‐type P. falciparum dihydrofolate reductase‐thymidylate synthase (PfDHFR‐TS). The computational molecular modeling investigations indicated the discovery of seventeen new compounds (2‐18) with higher binding energy compared to the PfDHFR‐TS inhibitor, pyrimethamine (1). Furthermore, the study employing drug‐likeness criteria and their ADMET profile suggested that these hits were the most promising drug candidates due to higher absorption and druggability. Furthermore, GROMACS 2023.4 was used to perform the molecular dynamics simulations on the foremost compound (2) having sufficient stability, leading to a key step towards the search of novel PfDHFR‐TS inhibitors against malaria.
Design of Hepatitis C Protease Inhibitors Based on Knottin Fold
Authors: Talanova Anastasia , Shcherbinin Dmitrii , Kolesanova Ekaterina , Veselovsky Alexander
Published: July 2024

Knottins are very stable peptides (also called miniproteins) containing approximately 30 amino acid residues. Their structures are stabilized by three disulfide bonds forming a characteristic ‘pseudo‐knotted’ structure. This research was devoted to the design of potential inhibitors of human hepatitis C (HCV) NS3 protease by means of knottin fold using loop grafting, amino acid residues replacements and L/D amino acid epimerization. The initial structure used for design was a trypsin inhibitor from Momordica cochinchinensis seeds, MCOTI‐II. Modifications of the knottin template for optimization of the NS3 protease‐peptide interaction included deletion of several residues from the N‐terminus, replacement of residues in‐ and outside the inhibitor loop and replacement of certain L‐amino acids by their D‐stereoisomers. Stability of modified knottins and their complexes with HCV protease were evaluated by molecular dynamics simulation. Binding energy values for protein‐knottin complexes were calculated by MM‐GBSA method. The designed modified knottin characterized by the highest stability of the complex with HCV NS3 protease, was proposed for further experimental testing.
The Identification of Oral Cariogenic Bacteria through Colorimetric Sensor Array Based on Single‐Atom Nanozymes
Authors: Zhang Yuan , Khan Muhammad Arif , Yu Zhangli , Yang Wenjie , Zhao Hongbin , Ye Daixin , Chen Xi , Zhang Juan
Published: July 2024

Effective identification of multiple cariogenic bacteria in saliva samples is important for oral disease prevention and treatment. Here, a simple colorimetric sensor array is developed for the identification of cariogenic bacteria using single‐atom nanozymes (SANs) assisted by machine learning. Interestingly, cariogenic bacteria can increase oxidase‐like activity of iron (Fe)─nitrogen (N)─carbon (C) SANs by accelerating electron transfer, and inversely reduce the activity of Fe─N─C further reconstruction with urea. Through machine‐learning‐assisted sensor array, colorimetric responses are developed as “fingerprints” of cariogenic bacteria. Multiple cariogenic bacteria can be well distinguished by linear discriminant analysis and bacteria at different genera can also be distinguished by hierarchical cluster analysis. Furthermore, colorimetric sensor array has demonstrated excellent performance for the identification of mixed cariogenic bacteria in artificial saliva samples. In view of convenience, precise, and high‐throughput discrimination, the developed colorimetric sensor array based on SANs assisted by machine learning, has great potential for the identification of oral cariogenic bacteria so as to serve for oral disease prevention and treatment.
Exploring Oxygen Vacancy Effect in 1D Structural SnIP for CO2 Electro‐Reduction to Formate
Authors: Bang Hyeon‐Seok , Jeon Jiho , Kang Jinsu , Ko Young‐Jin , Oh Cheoulwoo , Kim Hyunchul , Zhang Xiaojie , Choi Kyung Hwan , Woo Chaeheon , Dong Xue , Yu Hak Ki , Lee Woong Hee , Choi Jae‐Young , Oh Hyung‐Suk
Published: July 2024

1D nanostructures exhibit a large surface area and a short network distance, facilitating electron and ion transport. In this study, a 1D van der Waals material, tin iodide phosphide (SnIP), is synthesized and used as an electrocatalyst for the conversion of CO2 to formate. The electrochemical treatment of SnIP reconstructs it into a web‐like structure, dissolves the I and P components, and increases the number of oxygen vacancies. The resulting oxygen vacancies promote the activity of the CO2 reduction reaction (CO2RR), increasing the local pH of the electrode surface and maintaining the oxidative metal site of the catalyst despite the electrochemically reducing environment. This strategy, which stabilizes the oxidation state of the catalyst, also helps to improve the durability of CO2RR. In practice, 1D structured SnIP catalyst exhibits outstanding performance with >92% formate faradaic efficiency (FEformate) at 300 mA cm−2, a maximum partial current density for formate of 343 mA cm−2, and excellent long‐term stability (>100 h at 100 mA cm−2 with >86% FEformate). This study introduced a method to easily generate oxygen vacancies on the catalyst surface by utilizing 1D materials and a strategy to improve the durability of CO2RR by stabilizing the oxidation state of the catalyst.
D and Ds decay constants in Nf = 2 + 1 QCD with Wilson fermions
Authors:   The RQCD collaboration and the ALPHA collaboration, Kuberski Simon , Joswig Fabian , Collins Sara , Heitger Jochen , Söldner Wolfgang
Published: July 2024

Abstract

We present results for the leptonic decay constants of the D and Ds mesons from Nf = 2 + 1 lattice QCD. We employ a set of 49 high statistics gauge ensembles generated by the Coordinated Lattice Simulations (CLS) effort utilising non-perturbatively improved Wilson fermions and the tree-level Symanzik improved gauge action at six values of the lattice spacing in the range a = 0.098 fm down to a = 0.039 fm, with pion masses varying from around 420 MeV down to below the physical point. The ensembles lie on three trajectories in the quark mass plane, two trajectories intersecting close to the physical quark mass point and the third one approaching the SU(3) chiral limit, enabling tight control of the light and strange quark mass dependence. We obtain $$ {f}_{{\textrm{D}}_{\textrm{s}}} $$

f

D
s

= 246.8(1.3) MeV, fD = 208.4(1.5) MeV and $$ {f}_{{\textrm{D}}_{\textrm{s}}} $$

f

D
s

/fD = 1.1842(36), where the precision of our results is mostly limited by the determination of the scale.
Color-kinematic numerators for fermion Compton amplitudes
Authors: Bjerrum-Bohr N. Emil J. , Chen Gang , Miao Yuchan , Skowronek Marcos
Published: July 2024

Abstract

We introduce a novel approach to compute Compton amplitudes involving a fermion pair inspired by Hopf algebra amplitude constructions. This approach features a recursive relation employing quasi-shuffle sets, directly verifiable by massive factorization properties. We derive results for minimal gauge invariant color-kinematic numerators with physical massive poles using this method. We have also deduced a graphical method for deriving numerators that simplifies the numerator generation and eliminates redundancies, thus providing several computational advantages.
A review of trilaciclib, a first-in-class cyclin-dependent kinase 4/6 inhibitor, for the management of metastatic small-cell lung cancer
Authors: Patel Twinkle I. , Joshi Jay N. , Valvezan Alexander J. , Moschitto Matthew J.
Published: July 2024

Cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs) play a major role in regulating transitions within the cell cycle. Given the roles of CDK4/6 in promoting oncogenesis, selective inhibition of CDK4/6 has emerged as a novel approach for the treatment of breast cancer and various other tumors. While first and second generation CDK4/6 inhibitors were instrumental in targeting cell cycle pathways, they had numerous drawbacks such as limited selectivity and off-target effects. For that reason, a third generation of inhibitors was introduced and provided improved selectivity towards CDK4/6 leading to fewer side effects. To date, four compounds have been approved by the FDA as selective inhibitors of CDK4/6: palbociclib, ribociclib, abemaciclib, and trilaciclib. In this mini review, we summarize the biological, clinical, and chemical aspects of trilaciclib, a first-in-class CDK4/6 inhibitor notable for its dual role in cell cycle regulation and myelopreservation. Trilaciclib was granted FDA approval on February 2021, to improve the outcome of patients with metastatic-stage small cell lung cancer (SCLC) by protecting bone marrow suppression during chemotherapy.
Drowning in the ripple effect: identifying a syndemic network of health experience (with modifiable health behaviours) using the UK Biobank
Authors: Vereeken Silke , Bedendo Andre , Gilbody Simon , Hewit Catherine E.
Published: July 2024

A Syndemic model of health experience in severe mental illness (SMI) involving modifiable health behaviour contributors has been theorised but has not yet been investigated. Over the next 10 years mental ill-health and suicidal behaviours have been predicted to increase which will decrease health experience and increase hospitalisation and associated costs. This paper investigated a Syndemic model of health experience in people with SMI informed by physical activity levels, exposure to nature, personal resilience levels, drugs related (tobacco smoking and alcohol consumption), and sleep behaviours using UK Biobank data. Results implementing SEM indicate partial evidence for a Syndemic model, with personal resilience being at its centre. Contrary to previous findings, drugs related behaviours did not play an important role in the model. Implementing a Syndemic framework approach to current health care strategies could be beneficial in the development of self-management strategies for people with SMI. This is the first paper using SEM analyses to investigate SMI under the Syndemic theory paradigm.
Submerged arc welding process: enhancement of production performance based on metallurgical observations
Authors: Conte Romina , Battista Francesco Raffaele , Ambrogio Giuseppina
Published: July 2024

Welding processes are widely used technologies in the industrial context for creating permanent connections between mechanical components. This popularity is due to their versatility, which arises from the numerous available process variants and the multiple advantages they offer compared to other joining techniques. In the manufacturing context, where devices often operate in extreme conditions, the quality of welds becomes a critical factor in ensuring the safety and reliability of the manufactured products. Furthermore, a sound joint requires careful compliance with the increasingly stringent design specifications demanded by customers who require industry-standard conformity in order to achieve defect-free, robust, and durable welds. To address these needs and to define the optimal roadmap for the investigated process condition, an experimental investigation was conducted on the submerged arc welding process. The experimental trials involved butt joints of ASTM A516 Gr.70 carbon steel plates with different thicknesses in a flat position, utilizing a U-shaped chamfer and a multi-pass welding technique. For each weldment, the effects of the main process parameters on the qualitative characteristics of the manufactured products were evaluated from a metallurgical perspective. This evaluation included an in-depth metallographic analysis of the heat-affected zone of the carbon steel joint and involved both the measurement of the dimensions of these areas as well as the amount of ferrite and pearlite that resulted as the phases observed in the final microstructure of the steel joint following its solidification. Furthermore, the joint quality was assessed with regard to mechanical strength through hardness measurements. By analysing the experimental data, the paper provides a valuable contribution for increasing the productivity of the investigated welding process, while simultaneously meeting the specified industrial quality requirements for the products made of medium-thickness carbon steels.
Analysis of impact for PV-BES strategies in low-voltage distribution system
Authors: López Lucas , López Iraide , Gomez-Cornejo Julen , Aranzabal Itxaso , Eguia Pablo
Published: July 2024

This paper proposes a new approach for interconnecting Distributed Energy Resources (DERs) in low-voltage distribution networks, focusing on integrating photovoltaic (PV) generation systems and Battery Energy Storage (BES). To optimize the integration of DERs into distribution energy systems, distinct voltage profiles of customer’s nodes and energy losses along the grid have been analyzed. The applied methodology utilizes the load flow study module of the PSS/E software, in conjunction with developed Python algorithms to study several studies over 24-h periods. The main parameters analyzed include: the number of clients with a connected PV system, customer-installed power, and load profiles of all clients connected to the same source. Furthermore, two battery energy storage strategies have been examined: centralized energy storage and distributed energy storage. An independent voltage control has been implemented to assess the benefits of PV systems. The obtained results contribute to ongoing efforts toward more sustainable and efficient distribution energy systems and provide valuable insights to overcome barriers to DER penetration in low-voltage distribution networks.
The mod 2 cohomology rings of oriented Grassmannians via Koszul complexes
Authors: Matszangosz Ákos K. , Wendt Matthias
Published: July 2024

We study the structure of mod 2 cohomology rings of oriented Grassmannians $$\widetilde{{\text {Gr}}}_k(n)$$

Gr
~

k

(
n
)

of oriented k-planes in $${\mathbb {R}}^n$$

R

n

. Our main focus is on the structure of the cohomology ring $$\textrm{H}^*(\widetilde{{\text {Gr}}}_k(n);{\mathbb {F}}_2)$$

H
∗

(

Gr
~

k

(
n
)

;

F
2

)

as a module over the characteristic subring C, which is the subring generated by the Stiefel–Whitney classes $$w_2,\ldots ,w_k$$

w
2

,
…
,

w
k

. We identify this module structure using Koszul complexes, which involves the syzygies between the relations defining C. We give an infinite family of such syzygies, which results in a new upper bound on the characteristic rank of $$\widetilde{{\text {Gr}}}_k(2^t)$$

Gr
~

k

(

2
t

)

, $$k<2^t$$

k
<

2
t

, and formulate a conjecture on the exact value of the characteristic rank of $$\widetilde{{\text {Gr}}}_k(n)$$

Gr
~

k

(
n
)

. For the case $$k=3$$

k
=
3

, we use the Koszul complex to compute a presentation of the cohomology ring $$H=\textrm{H}^*(\widetilde{{\text {Gr}}}_3(n);{\mathbb {F}}_2)$$

H
=

H
∗

(

Gr
~

3

(
n
)

;

F
2

)

for $$2^{t-1}<n\le 2^t-4$$

2

t
-
1

<
n
≤

2
t

-
4

for $$t\ge 4$$

t
≥
4

, complementing existing descriptions in the cases $$n=2^t-i$$

n
=

2
t

-
i

, $$i=0,1,2,3$$

i
=
0
,
1
,
2
,
3

for $$t\ge 3$$

t
≥
3

. More precisely, as a C-module, H splits as a direct sum of the characteristic subring C and the anomalous module H/C, and we compute a complete presentation of H/C as a C-module from the Koszul complex. We also discuss various issues that arise for the cases $$k>3$$

k
>
3

, supported by computer calculation.
Chromosomal structural rearrangements implicate long non-coding RNAs in rare germline disorders
Authors: Andersen Rebecca E. , Alkuraya Ibrahim F. , Ajeesh Abna , Sakamoto Tyler , Mena Elijah L. , Amr Sami S. , Romi Hila , Kenna Margaret A. , Robson Caroline D. , Wilch Ellen S. , Nalbandian Katarena , Piña-Aguilar Raul , Walsh Christopher A. , Morton Cynthia C.
Published: July 2024

In recent years, there has been increased focus on exploring the role the non-protein-coding genome plays in Mendelian disorders. One class of particular interest is long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), which has recently been implicated in the regulation of diverse molecular processes. However, because lncRNAs do not encode protein, there is uncertainty regarding what constitutes a pathogenic lncRNA variant, and thus annotating such elements is challenging. The Developmental Genome Anatomy Project (DGAP) and similar projects recruit individuals with apparently balanced chromosomal abnormalities (BCAs) that disrupt or dysregulate genes in order to annotate the human genome. We hypothesized that rearrangements disrupting lncRNAs could be the underlying genetic etiology for the phenotypes of a subset of these individuals. Thus, we assessed 279 cases with BCAs and selected 191 cases with simple BCAs (breakpoints at only two genomic locations) for further analysis of lncRNA disruptions. From these, we identified 66 cases in which the chromosomal rearrangements directly disrupt lncRNAs. In 30 cases, no genes of any other class aside from lncRNAs are directly disrupted, consistent with the hypothesis that lncRNA disruptions could underly the phenotypes of these individuals. Strikingly, the lncRNAs MEF2C-AS1 and ENSG00000257522 are each disrupted in two unrelated cases. Furthermore, we experimentally tested the lncRNAs TBX2-AS1 and MEF2C-AS1 and found that knockdown of these lncRNAs resulted in decreased expression of the neighboring transcription factors TBX2 and MEF2C, respectively. To showcase the power of this genomic approach for annotating lncRNAs, here we focus on clinical reports and genetic analysis of seven individuals with likely developmental etiologies due to lncRNA disruptions.