bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of Rehydration Following Systemic Dehydration on Vocal Fold Gene Expression
Authors: Bailey Taylor W. , do Nascimento Naila Cannes , Santos Andrea P. , Cox Abigail , Sivasankar M. Preeti
Published: June 2023

Objective

Biological data on the beneficial effects of vocal fold rehydration are lacking. This study aimed to examine the effects of acute systemic dehydration on vocal fold gene expression and determine whether rehydration would reverse these changes.

Methods

Male New Zealand White rabbits (N = 24, n = 8/group) provided the animal model. Systemic dehydration was induced by 5 days of water volume restriction. Rehydration was provided by ad‐lib water for 3 days following dehydration. Euhydrated rabbits were used as the control group. Vocal fold tissue was dissected. Seventeen genes were selected based on physiological function and role in supporting vocal fold structure, oxidative stress, hemodynamics, and extracellular matrix turnover. Relative gene expression was assessed by RT‐qPCR.

Results

Rehydration following systemic dehydration can modulate gene expression, with expression patterns suggesting that rehydration reverses dehydration‐induced changes in over half of the tested genes. CLIC5 (chloride intracellular channel 5) and EFEMP1 (EGF containing fibulin extracellular matrix protein 1) genes were significantly upregulated in the dehydration group compared with the euhydrated control. A1BG (alpha‐1B‐glycoprotein) and IL1RAP (interleukin 1 receptor accessory protein) were downregulated by rehydration compared with the dehydration group.

Conclusion

This study provides molecular evidence for a transcriptional response to rehydration following acute systemic dehydration in the vocal folds. These data are the first to study gene expression following realistic dehydration and rehydration paradigms and provide biological data to support clinical recommendations to increase water intake after acute dehydration.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 133:3499–3505, 2023
Exponential time‐decay for a one‐dimensional wave equation with coefficients of bounded variation
Authors: Datchev Kiril , Shapiro Jacob
Published: June 2023

We consider the initial‐value problem for a one‐dimensional wave equation with coefficients that are positive, constant outside of an interval, and have bounded variation (BV). Under the assumption of compact support of the initial data, we prove that the local energy decays exponentially fast in time, and provide the explicit constant to which the solution converges. The key ingredient of the proof is a high‐frequency resolvent estimate for an associated Helmholtz operator with a BV potential.
Vitamin D3 attenuates SARS‐CoV‐2 nucleocapsid protein‐caused hyperinflammation by inactivating the NLRP3 inflammasome through the VDR‐BRCC3 signaling pathway in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Chen Mingliang , He Ying , Hu Xiaofeng , Dong Xunhu , Yan Zexuan , Zhao Qingning , Li Jingyuan , Xiang Dongfang , Lin Yong , Song Hongbin , Bian Xiuwu
Published: June 2023

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) infection‐caused coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) is a global crisis with no satisfactory therapies. Vitamin D3 (VD3) is considered a potential candidate for COVID‐19 treatment; however, little information is available regarding the exact effects of VD3 on SARS‐CoV‐2 infection and the underlying mechanism. Herein, we confirmed that VD3 reduced SARS‐CoV‐2 nucleocapsid (N) protein‐caused hyperinflammation in human bronchial epithelial (HBE) cells. Meanwhile, VD3 inhibited the NOD‐like receptor family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome activation in N protein‐overexpressed HBE (HBE‐N) cells. Notably, the inhibitors of caspase‐1, NLRP3, and NLRP3 or caspase‐1 small interference RNA (siRNA) enhanced VD3‐induced NLRP3 inflammasome inactivation, with subsequent suppression of interleukin‐6 (IL6) and IL1β release in HBE‐N cells, which were abolished by the NLRP3 agonist. Moreover, VD3 increased NLRP3 ubiquitination (Ub‐NLRP3) expression and the binding of the VDR with NLRP3, with decreased BRCA1/BRCA2‐containing complex subunit 3 (BRCC3) expression and NLRP3‐BRCC3 association. VD3‐induced Ub‐NLRP3 expression, NLRP3 inflammasome inactivation, and hyperinflammation inhibition were improved by the BRCC3 inhibitor or BRCC3 siRNA, which were attenuated by the vitamin D receptor (VDR) antagonist or VDR siRNA in HBE‐N cells. Finally, the results of the in vivo study in AAV‐Lung‐enhanced green fluorescent protein‐N‐infected lungs were consistent with the findings of the in vitro experiment. In conclusion, VD3 attenuated N protein‐caused hyperinflammation by inactivating the NLRP3 inflammasome partially through the VDR‐BRCC3 signaling pathway.
A novel growing wavelet neural network algorithm for solving chemotaxis systems with blow‐up
Authors: Mostajeran F. , Hosseini S. M.
Published: June 2023

In this study, we introduce a new growing neural network algorithm that is based on wavelet neural networks and call our algorithm a growing wavelet neural network (GWNN) method. We apply our proposed scheme to train a wavelet neural network to solve chemotaxis problems with blow‐up. These problems are highly nonlinear time‐dependent systems of partial differential equations, and it is a challenge to get the pattern of the solution accurately. The proposed structure is partial retraining of the network, which increases its capacity to catch the spiky pattern of the solution. Our neural network‐based algorithm allows us to solve the nonlinear chemotaxis problems without the use of linearization techniques and regularization techniques, most of which reduce the accuracy of the model. This mesh‐free‐based method can manage a variety of blow‐up models with curved boundaries without imposing an extra cost. By proving the consistency and stability of the method, we show the convergence of GWNN solutions to analytical solutions of the chemotaxis problem. Several illustrative examples and simulation results are provided to demonstrate the correctness of the results and the robust performance of the presented algorithm. Moreover, to illustrate the effectiveness of the GWNN method, we make a comparison with two other network‐based methods.
On the generalized Fourier transform
Authors: Abreu‐Blaya Ricardo , Rodríguez José M. , Sigarreta José M.
Published: June 2023

In this paper, we introduce the theory of a generalized Fourier transform in order to solve differential equations with a generalized fractional derivative, and we state its main properties. In particular, we obtain the new corresponding convolution, inverse and Plancherel formulas, and Hausdorff–Young type inequality. We show that this generalized Fourier transform is useful in the study of several fractional differential equations (both ordinary and partial differential equations).
Application of single photon counter module in weak signal detection for RF chip scanning using a quantum near field probe
Authors: Yu Linyan , Bai Ruixin , Yin Xiaohan , Wang Jinfeng , Wang Chengkun , Bian Yuchen , Ma Wenhao , Chen Nuocheng , Li Na , Liu Xinyu , Guo Zhigang , Jiang Jun , Du Guanxiang
Published: June 2023

Diamond based quantum sensing for on‐chip electromagnetic field imaging is an emerging field. While smaller diamond probes offer higher spatial resolution, their lower fluorescence intensity poses a challenge for the traditional Avalanche Photo Diode. In this work, we propose a tapered fiber diamond probe containing Nitrogen‐vacancy center and utilize a single photon counter module as the detector. A time domain differential pulse sequence is introduced to suppress noise caused by laser intensity fluctuation. By analyzing the relationship between the signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR) and parameters of differential pulse sequence, we derived the formula of SNR and the basic cycle (), and obtained the optimal SNR in the same measurement time through trade‐off between two different kinds of noise. The technique was applied to a waveguide microstrip filter chip, accurately imaging the current density distribution. Our results have potential applications in on‐chip testing and failure analysis.
Acoustic noise reduction for spiral MRI by gradient derating
Authors: Zhou Zeyu , Alfayad Abdulrahman , Chao Tzu Cheng , Pipe James G.
Published: June 2023

Purpose

To show that the acoustic noise of spiral MRI can be reduced by derating the gradients with minimal penalty to image quality and scan time, and to illustrate an algorithm for optimal choice of derating parameters.

Theory and Methods

Acoustic noise level was measured and compared for various values of maximum gradient amplitude and slew rate for T1‐weighted spin‐echo spiral scans while maintaining image contrast, FOV and resolution, and readout time. A full gradient trajectory and a derated gradient (undersampled) trajectory were chosen for a volunteer scan followed by parallel imaging‐aided reconstruction to illustrate comparable image SNR. Two auto‐derating methods, which prioritize slew rate and gradient amplitude, respectively, were derived using analytical results from the WHIRLED PEAS variant of spiral waveforms and compared in their acoustic noise level under test use cases.

Results

Derating the gradients made the scan quieter by 16.6 dB(A) on average than a full gradient trajectory and required an undersampling factor R = 2 in order to maintain scan time, with no appreciable penalty in image SNR. Prioritizing reduced slew rate resulted in maximal loudness reduction.

Conclusion

Scanner gradients can often be derated to reduce the acoustic noise for spiral MRI with minimal penalty in scan time and image quality with the help of parallel imaging. An automatic slew‐priority derating method that maximizes loudness reduction is given.
Measuring cardiomyocyte cellular characteristics in cardiac hypertrophy using diffusion‐weighted MRI
Authors: Farzi Mohsen , Coveney Sam , Afzali Maryam , Zdora Marie‐Christine , Lygate Craig A. , Rau Christoph , Frangi Alejandro F. , Dall'Armellina Erica , Teh Irvin , Schneider Jürgen E.
Published: June 2023

Purpose

This paper presents a hierarchical modeling approach for estimating cardiomyocyte major and minor diameters and intracellular volume fraction (ICV) using diffusion‐weighted MRI (DWI) data in ex vivo mouse hearts.

Methods

DWI data were acquired on two healthy controls and two hearts 3 weeks post transverse aortic constriction (TAC) using a bespoke diffusion scheme with multiple diffusion times (), q‐shells and diffusion encoding directions. Firstly, a bi‐exponential tensor model was fitted separately at each diffusion time to disentangle the dependence on diffusion times from diffusion weightings, that is, b‐values. The slow‐diffusing component was attributed to the restricted diffusion inside cardiomyocytes. ICV was then extrapolated at using linear regression. Secondly, given the secondary and the tertiary diffusion eigenvalue measurements for the slow‐diffusing component obtained at different diffusion times, major and minor diameters were estimated assuming a cylinder model with an elliptical cross‐section (ECS). High‐resolution three‐dimensional synchrotron X‐ray imaging (SRI) data from the same specimen was utilized to evaluate the biophysical parameters.

Results

Estimated parameters using DWI data were (control 1/control 2 vs. TAC 1/TAC 2): major diameter—17.4 m/18.0 m versus 19.2 m/19.0 m; minor diameter—10.2 m/9.4 m versus 12.8 m/13.4 m; and ICV—62%/62% versus 68%/47%. These findings were consistent with SRI measurements.

Conclusion

The proposed method allowed for accurate estimation of biophysical parameters suggesting cardiomyocyte diameters as sensitive biomarkers of hypertrophy in the heart.
Space−time spectral approximations of a parabolic optimal control problem with an L2‐norm control constraint
Authors: Tao Zhen‐Zhen , Sun Bing
Published: June 2023

This article deals with the spectral approximation of an optimal control problem governed by a parabolic partial differential equation (PDE) with an ‐norm control constraint. The investigations employ the space−time spectral method, which is, more precisely, a dual Petrov‐Galerkin spectral method in time and a spectral method in space to discrete the continuous system. As a global method, it uses the global polynomials as the trial functions for discretization of PDEs. After obtaining the optimality condition of the continuous system and that of its spectral discrete surrogate, we establish a priori and a posteriori error estimates for the spectral approximation in detail. Three numerical examples in different spatial dimensions then confirm the theoretical results and also show the efficiency as well as a good precision of the adopted space−time spectral method.
On the optimal control of kinetic epidemic models with uncertain social features
Authors: Franceschi Jonathan , Medaglia Andrea , Zanella Mattia
Published: June 2023

It is recognized that social heterogeneities in terms of the contact distribution have a strong influence on the spread of infectious diseases. Nevertheless, few data are available on the group composition of social contacts, and their statistical description does not possess universal patterns and may vary spatially and temporally. It is therefore essential to design robust control strategies, mimicking the effects of non‐pharmaceutical interventions, to limit efficiently the number of infected cases. In this work, starting from a recently introduced kinetic model for epidemiological dynamics that takes into account the impact of social contacts of individuals, we consider an uncertain contact formation dynamics leading to slim‐tailed as well as fat‐tailed distributions of contacts. Hence, we analyse the effects of an optimally robust control strategy of the system of agents. Thanks to classical methods of kinetic theory, we couple uncertainty quantification methods with the introduced mathematical model to assess the effects of social limitations. Finally, using the proposed modeling approach and starting from available data, we show the effectiveness of the proposed selective measures to dampen uncertainties together with the epidemic trends.
Somatic loss ofATMis a late event in pancreatic tumorigenesis
Authors: Paranal Raymond M , Jiang Zhengdong , Hutchings Danielle , Kryklyva Valentyna , Gauthier Christian , Fujikura Kohei , Nanda Neha , Huang Bo , Skaro Michael , Wolfgang Christopher L , He Jin , Klimstra David S , Brand Randall E , Singhi Aatur D , DeMarzo Angelo , Zheng Lei , Goggins Michael , Brosens Lodewijk AA , Hruban Ralph H , Klein Alison P , Lotan Tamara , Wood Laura D , Roberts Nicholas J
Published: June 2023

Understanding the timing and spectrum of genetic alterations that contribute to the development of pancreatic cancer is essential for effective interventions and treatments. The aim of this study was to characterize somaticATMalterations in noninvasive pancreatic precursor lesions and invasive pancreatic adenocarcinomas from patients with and without pathogenic germlineATMvariants. DNA was isolated and sequenced from the invasive pancreatic ductal adenocarcinomas and precursor lesions of patients with a pathogenic germlineATMvariant. Tumor and precursor lesions from these patients as well as colloid carcinoma from patients without a germlineATMvariant were immunolabeled to assess ATM expression. Among patients with a pathogenic germlineATMvariant, somaticATMalterations, either mutations and/or loss of protein expression, were identified in 75.0% of invasive pancreatic adenocarcinomas but only 7.1% of pancreatic precursor lesions. Loss of ATM expression was also detected in 31.0% of colloid carcinomas from patients unselected for germlineATMstatus, significantly higher than in pancreatic precursor lesions [pancreatic intraepithelial neoplasms (p = 0.0013); intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms,p = 0.0040] and pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (p = 0.0076) unselected for germline ATM status. These data are consistent with the second hit toATMbeing a late event in pancreatic tumorigenesis. © 2023 The Authors.The Journal of Pathologypublished by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
Distinct genomic landscapes in radiation‐associated angiosarcoma compared with other radiation‐associated sarcoma histologies
Authors: Dermawan Josephine K , Chi Ping , Tap William D , Rosenbaum Evan , D'Angelo Sandra , Alektiar Kaled M , Antonescu Cristina R
Published: June 2023

MYC amplifications have been frequently detected in radiation (RT)‐associated angiosarcomas (ASs) by low‐resolution molecular methods. However, large‐scale next‐generation sequencing (NGS) studies to investigate the genomic landscape of RT‐AS are scarce, particularly compared with other RT‐associated sarcomas. We performed a detailed comparative genomic investigation of RT‐AS versus other RT‐associated histotypes, as well as sporadic sarcomas with similar histologies. Our institutional targeted DNA‐NGS assay database was searched for RT‐associated sarcomas. Clinical outcome data, pathologic diagnosis, and the types and frequencies of genomic alterations, including single nucleotide variants (SNVs) and copy number alterations (CNAs), were analyzed. The cohort consisted of 82 patients, 68 (83%) females and 14 (17%) males, aged 37–88 (mean 64) years. Forty‐four RT‐ASs (38 from breast) and 38 RT sarcomas of other histologies, including 12 malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumors (RT‐MPNSTs), 14 undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcomas (RT‐UPSs), and 12 osteosarcomas (RT‐OSs), were included. Median time intervals from radiation to initial diagnosis in RT‐AS (8.0 years) were significantly lower than those in RT‐MPNST and RT‐UPS (12.5 and 18.5 years), respectively. Each RT‐sarcoma histotype harbored distinct mutations and CNAs. RT‐associated AS had more frequent MYC, FLT4, CRKL, HRAS, and KMT2D alterations than sporadic AS (enriched in TP53, KDR, ATM, ATRX), whereas the mutational landscapes of MPNST, UPS, and OS were similar in both RT and non‐RT settings. CDKN2A/B deletions and TP53 alterations were infrequent in RT‐AS compared with other RT sarcomas. Among RT sarcomas, RT‐AS harbored the lowest fraction of genome altered (FGA), while RT‐MPNST showed the highest FGA. RT‐AS had the lowest insertion:SNV and deletion:SNV ratios, while RT‐UPS had the highest. The predominant mutational signatures were associated with errors in DNA repair and replication. In conclusion, RT‐AS has a distinct genomic landscape compared with other RT sarcomas and sporadic AS. Potential molecular targets for precision medicine may be histotype‐dependent. © 2023 The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
The spectrum and significance of secondary (co‐occurring) genetic alterations in sarcomas: the hallmarks of sarcomagenesis
Authors: Dermawan Josephine K , Rubin Brian P
Published: June 2023

Bone and soft tissue tumors are generally classified into complex karyotype sarcomas versus those with recurrent genetic alterations, often in the form of gene fusions. In this review, we provide an overview of important co‐occurring genomic alterations, organized by biological mechanisms and covering a spectrum of genomic alteration types: mutations (single‐nucleotide variations or indels) in oncogenes or tumor suppressor genes, copy number alterations, transcriptomic signatures, genomic complexity indices (e.g. CINSARC), and complex genomic structural variants. We discuss the biological and prognostic roles of these so‐called secondary or co‐occurring alterations, arguing that recognition and detection of these alterations may be significant for our understanding and management of mesenchymal tumors. On a related note, we also discuss major recurrent alterations in so‐called complex karyotype sarcomas. These secondary alterations are essential to sarcomagenesis via a variety of mechanisms, such as inactivation of tumor suppressors, activation of proliferative signal transduction, telomere maintenance, and aberrant regulation of epigenomic/chromatin remodeling players. The use of comprehensive genomic profiling, including targeted next‐generation sequencing panels or whole‐exome sequencing, may be incorporated into clinical workflows to offer more comprehensive, potentially clinically actionable information. © 2023 The Authors. The Journal of Pathology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
Superbase‐enabled anionic polymerization of poly(alkyl cyanoacrylate)s: achieving well‐defined structures and controlled molar masses
Authors: Hüppe Natkritta , Gleede Tassilo , Wurm Frederik R
Published: June 2023

Poly(alkyl cyanoacrylate)s (PACAs) find extensive use as adhesives in engineering and medicine. However, their high reactivity often leads to wide molar mass dispersity and uncontrolled chain‐end functionalities. Achieving precise polymer structures is crucial, particularly for medical applications to prevent oligomer toxicity. The conventional anionic polymerization of cyanoacrylates initiated by water results in high molar mass dispersities (Ð) and low end‐group functionalities. Nonetheless, under specific conditions, anionic polymerization holds the potential for controlling the molar mass and Ð of PACAs. Here, we demonstrate the synthesis of well‐defined PACAs by employing minute quantities (1%) of superbases to activate a functional thiophenol (PhSH) initiator. This strategy enables the attainment of adjustable molecular weights (Mn > 20 kg mol−1) and moderate dispersities (Ð < 1.4) for homopolymers and block copolymers. The selective initiation by thiophenol is confirmed through 1H DOSY NMR analysis. Furthermore, the controlled homo‐ and copolymerization of ACA derivatives highlights the remarkable performance of the superbase in conjunction with PhSH. © 2023 The Authors. Polymer International published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Industrial Chemistry.
The in situ treatment of PFAS within porewater at the air–water interface of a PFAS source zone
Authors: McGregor Rick
Published: June 2023

The treatment of per‐ and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) within groundwater is an emerging topic, with various technologies being researched and tested. Currently, PFAS‐impacted groundwater is typically treated ex situ using sorptive media such as activated carbon and ion exchange resin. Proven in situ remedial approaches for groundwater have been limited to colloidal activated carbon (CAC) injected into aquifers downgradient of the source zones. However, treatment of groundwater within the source zones has not been shown to be feasible to date. This study evaluated the use of CAC to treat dissolved PFAS at the air–water interface within the PFAS source zone. Studies have shown that PFAS tends to preferentially accumulate at the air–water interface due to the chemical properties of the various PFAS. This accumulation can act as a long‐term source for PFAS, thus making downgradient treatment of groundwater a long‐term requirement. A solution of CAC was injected at the air–water interface within the source zone at a site with PFAS contamination using direct push technology. A dense injection grid that targeted the interface between the air and groundwater was used to deliver the CAC. Concentrations of PFAS within the porewater and groundwater were collected using a series of nine lysimeters installed within the vadose and saturated water columns. A total of six PFAS were detected in the porewater and groundwater including perfluorobutanoic acid (PFBA), perfluoropentanoic acid (PFPeA), perfluorohexanoic acid (PFHxA), perfluoroheptanoic acid (PFHpA), perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), and perfluorononanoic acid (PFNA). Detectable concentrations of PFAS within the pore and groundwater before treatment ranged from values greater than 300 µg/L for PFPeA to less than 3 µg/L for PFNA. Following the injection of the CAC, monitoring of the porewater and groundwater for PFAS was conducted approximately 3, 6, 9, 12, and 18 months postinjection. The results indicated that the PFAS within the porewater and groundwater at and near the air–water interface was effectively attenuated over the 1.5‐year monitoring program, with PFAS concentrations being below the method detection limits of approximately 10 ng/L, with the exception of PFPeA, which was detected within the porewater during the 18‐month sampling event at concentrations of up to 55 ng/L. PFPeA is a five carbon‐chained PFAS that has been shown to have a lower affinity for sorption onto activated carbon compared to the longer carbon‐chained PFAS such as PFOA. Examination of aquifer cores in the zone of injection indicated that the total organic carbon concentration of the aquifer increased by five orders of magnitude postinjection, with 97% of the samples collected within the target injection area containing activated carbon, indicating that the CAC was successfully delivered into the source zone.
Serum ferritin level as a prognostic biomarker for predicting dengue disease severity: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Shukla Shridhar , Jadhav Santosh M. , Gurav Yogesh K. , Parashar Deepti , Alagarasu Kalichamy
Published: June 2023

Serum ferritin levels serves as biomarkers in many inflammatory and infectious diseases. This current systematic review and meta‐analysis evaluated whether serum ferritin levels are associated with severe dengue and its utility as a biomarker of disease severity. Literature searches were conducted in PubMed, Scopus, ScienceDirect, the Cochrane library, and Google Scholar. A total of 18 studies examining the serum ferritin levels in dengue cases in the context of disease severity (nine studies having dengue classification as non‐severe vs. severe dengue cases, and nine studies having dengue classification as dengue without warning signs (DwoWS), dengue with warning signs (DwWS), and severe dengue cases) were included and the quality of the studies was assessed using the Quality in Prognostic Factor Studies tool. The meta‐analysis was performed using STATA software to calculate the effect size as a standardized mean difference (SMD) or Hedges ‘g’ for the continuous outcome. Higher serum ferritin levels were found in severe dengue cases compared to non‐severe cases [SMD (Hedges ‘g’) 4.05 (95% C.I. 2.09–6.00), (I2 = 98.8%)]. In the second group, DwWS cases showed high serum ferritin levels compared to DwoWS [SMD 2.01 (95% C.I. 0.92–3.10), (I2 = 97.89%)], and severe dengue cases showed higher levels of serum ferritin compared to DwWS [SMD 2.66 (95% C.I. 1.72–4.48), (I2 = 98.78%)] and DwoWS cases [SMD 6.65 (95% C.I. 1.72–11.59), (I2 = 99.78%]. Subgroup analysis for the country of study (India vs. others), ferritin testing methods, and ferritin measurement day revealed testing method as a significant contributor to heterogeneity. To conclude, the present study suggests serum ferritin as a prognostic marker for dengue disease severity. Multi‐centric studies involving a large number of dengue patients with a uniform case definition accounting for all the confounding variables might help in determining a universal cut‐off value to discriminate between non‐severe and severe dengue.
Know what it takes to advance to senior‐level leadership positions
Authors: Calhoun Daniel W. , Tolman Steven
Published: June 2023

As student affairs faculty, we equip our students with the knowledge and skills to be successful in their first job, but we also provide them with the tools to start thinking about their last job. For many, that last job is an executive position, such as director, dean, vice president, or president. One of the exercises we commonly conduct early in our programs and then revisit in the final semester is helping the students create a professional development plan. As part of this exercise, students must assess their skillset and put them in the context of entry‐level and senior‐level jobs. This reflection includes reviewing employment postings in The Chronicle of Higher Education and HigherEdJobs.com to see the qualifications for their “dream job.”
Understand your rights before you discuss your religious beliefs at work
Authors: McCarthy Claudine
Published: June 2023

BOSTON — Although some student affairs professionals and faculty members have the desire to express their religious/spiritual beliefs in the workplace, they tend to hesitate to do so because they fear being pigeonholed, thwarted, or becoming a source of controversy, and they often misunderstand their legal rights in this area. That's according to Christy Moran Craft, Ph.D., Professor and Department Chair at Kansas State University, who gave a presentation at the annual conference for NASPA — Student Affairs Administrators in Higher Education.
Rising cost of living impacts higher ed leaders
Authors: Arnett Autumn A.
Published: June 2023

In her first week as President of Huston‐Tillotson University, Melva K. Williams, Ph.D., learned several of her faculty and staff were couch‐surfing, commuting long distances, and sleeping in their offices in the mornings and late afternoons while they waited out traffic to make the long drives back to their homes in places way outside of Austin's city limits. “They’ve got to do something to get that rent down,” Williams said of city officials.
Attaining multiple sustainable development goals through storage hydropower development amidst community vulnerabilities
Authors: Bhattarai Utsav , Devkota Rohini , Maraseni Tek , Devkota Laxmi , Marahatta Suresh
Published: June 2023

Every energy generation technology, including hydropower, has its own strengths and shortcomings. We carried out vulnerability assessment (VA) applying a bottom‐up multi‐disciplinary indicator‐based method considering people's perception of five dimensions of a storage type (ST) “national pride” hydropower project–1200 MW Budhi Gandaki Hydropower Project (BGHP) in Nepal. We also examined how ST projects can contribute to sustainable development goals (SDGs) overcoming the vulnerabilities. Primary data on people's perception were collected through focus group discussions and 200 household questionnaire surveys conducted within the most vulnerable areas. People perceived the “Physical” dimension as the most impactful. The local community is optimistic about some infrastructure development, but issues related to compensation, resettlement and physical stressors were found to be very sensitive for the effective implementation of the project. Expectations of the local people and proposed plans by the government are concurrent in some issues but not in all. Our analysis shows that the BGHP has the potential to be multi‐dimensionally beneficial (to eight SDGs) for Nepal, provided that supportive policies are formulated and implemented stringently. Extending the project as multi‐purpose, pumped storage and other improvements such as floatovoltaics are some of the plausible recommendations for harnessing maximum benefits from this important project while minimizing threats. Moreover, the methodological framework can be conveniently replicated for conducting VA of hydropower projects under comparable physical and socio‐economic conditions.
Fluoride Ions Effect on the Corrosion Behavior of Pure Aluminum in Deaerated 0.05 M Sulfuric Acid Solutions
Authors: Alam Md. Ashraful , Jahan Aklima , Suzuki Eiichi , Yashiro Hitoshi
Published: June 2023

The corrosion study of aluminum‐based materials is the topic of a great scientific attention because of increasing the applications in many sectors of these materials. The fluoride ions (F−) effect on the corrosion behavior of pure aluminum in deaerated 0.05 M sulfuric acid (H2SO4) solutions at 25 °C was investigated. The electrochemical measurements such as open circuit potential and potentiodynamic polarization were accomplished to study the effect of fluoride and sulfate ions present in the test solutions. The optical microscopic and atomic force microscopic images were taken to view the morphologies and surface roughness of pure aluminum which coincidence with the corrosion rates found from the immersion of the test specimens using weight loss method. The surface morphology and elemental compositions of pure aluminum was evaluated by scanning electron microscope and energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy, respectively. The results showed that the general corrosion was formed on the surface of pure aluminum. It is also revealed that the surface roughness and amount of corrosion of pure aluminum were increased by the presence of even a very small amount of fluoride ions in deaerated sulfuric acid solutions.
High‐Contrast Optical Nitrile‐Rich Molecular Switches: Synthesis of Pyrrol‐2‐ones Containing a Butadienetricarbonitrile Fragment and Kinetics of Their Reversible Interaction with Morpholine
Authors: Yu. Belikov Mikhail , Milovidova Angelina G. , Yu. Ievlev Mikhail
Published: June 2023

Direct synthesis of previously undescribed 5‐aryl‐substituted pyrrol‐2‐one derivatives containing a butadienetricarbonitrile (BDTC) acceptor was carried out. The kinetics of their reversible interaction with morpholine accompanied with high‐contrast color changes in acetonitrile solution was studied for the first time. It was found that the electronic effects of substituents in aromatic ring had a direct effect on the reaction rate and extent, that was supported by the observed linearity between the estimated equilibrium constants and the electrophilic Hammett constants.
Design and Synthesis of Michael Acceptor‐Based Peptidyl β‐Nitrostyrenes as 3CLpro Inhibitors of SARS‐CoV‐2
Authors: Sharma Sweta , Yakkala Prasanna Anjaneyulu , Aboti Jyoti , Latief Insha , Ansari Mairaj Ahmed , Khan Wajihul Hasan , Shafi Syed
Published: June 2023

Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome coronavirus 2 main protease was found to be one of the most attractive anti‐viral targets for the development of new chemical entities to combat coronavirus and Michael acceptors were found to be appropriate 3‐chymotrypsin‐like protease inhibitors of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome coronavirus 2. In this regard, a series of Michael acceptor‐based peptidyl β‐nitrostyrenes were synthesized and evaluated for their Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome coronavirus 2 3‐chymotrypsin‐like protease inhibitory potentials using a 3‐chymotrypsin‐like protease of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome coronavirus 2 assay kit. Among the compounds evaluated, (E)‐N‐(2‐morpholino‐2‐oxo‐1‐phenylethyl)‐2‐(4‐(2‐nitrobut‐1‐en‐1‐yl)phenoxy)acetamide demonstrated better inhibition with an effective concentration (EC50) of 58 μM. In silico ADME predictions showed that the majority of these compounds have drug‐like properties. Furthermore, free energy calculation (ΔG Bind) and docking results demonstrate the suitable fitting of most active compound at the active site of the enzyme. Based on the in vitro and in silico studies, peptidyl β‐nitrostyrene based Michael acceptors could serve as an excellent ligand for the inhibition of 3‐chymotrypsin‐like protease of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome coronavirus 2 and may be used as a potential template for further development of bioactive ligands to treat CORONA VIRUS Disease of 2019.
The Role of Energy Offsets on Charge Photogeneration Dynamics in Y‐Series Molecules‐Based Polymer Solar Cells
Authors: Feng Junyi , Wen Guanzhao , Hu Rong , Peng Jun , Lu Hong , Zhao Ningjiu , Zou Xianshao , Zhang Wei
Published: June 2023

Recent research has revealed that low‐energy offset polymer solar cells (PSCs) are capable of a power conversion efficiency of over 19%. However, it is unclear how energy offsets and the charge photogeneration process are correlated. Herein, the effect of energy offsets on charge photogeneration dynamics for Y‐series molecules (Y5, Y6, Y10, and BTP‐4F‐12)‐based PSCs with the variations of the lowest unoccupied molecular orbital energy offsets (ΔELUMO) of 0.11–0.42 eV and the highest occupied molecular orbital energy offsets (ΔEHOMO) of 0.08–0.23 eV utilizing steady‐state and time‐resolved spectroscopies is studied. The steady‐state measurement shows that the probability of photoluminescence quenching via energy transfer for the donor exciton reduces with the increasing ΔELUMO. It is found that even in PM6:Y6 with the highest ΔELUMO, ≈18% of PM6 exciton dissociated via the path of “energy transfer first and then hole transfer,” manifesting the energy transfer also plays a vital role in the process of exciton dissociation. Furthermore, it is found that the PM6 exciton can efficiently dissociate under the ΔELUMO of 0.11 eV. After photoexcitation of the Y‐series molecule acceptors, the exciton dissociation efficiency enhances with the increase of ΔEHOMO. Besides, the higher energy offsets, the lower charge recombination rate in the ultrafast timescale has been found from the transient absorption measurement. These findings reveal that energy offsets are important for charge photogeneration and recombination in an ultrafast timescale for Y‐series molecule‐based PSCs, which may shed light on the design of high‐performance PSCs.
AI and formative assessment: The train has left the station
Authors: Zhai Xiaoming , Nehm Ross H.
Published: June 2023

In response to Li, Reigh, He, and Miller's commentary, Can we and should we use artificial intelligence for formative assessment in science, we argue that artificial intelligence (AI) is already being widely employed in formative assessment across various educational contexts. While agreeing with Li et al.'s call for further studies on equity issues related to AI, we emphasize the need for science educators to adapt to the AI revolution that has outpaced the research community. We challenge the somewhat restrictive view of formative assessment presented by Li et al., highlighting the significant contributions of AI in providing formative feedback to students, assisting teachers in assessment practices, and aiding in instructional decisions. We contend that AI‐generated scores should not be equated with the entirety of formative assessment practice; no single assessment tool can capture all aspects of student thinking and backgrounds. We address concerns raised by Li et al. regarding AI bias and emphasize the importance of empirical testing and evidence‐based arguments in referring to bias. We assert that AI‐based formative assessment does not necessarily lead to inequity and can, in fact, contribute to more equitable educational experiences. Furthermore, we discuss how AI can facilitate the diversification of representational modalities in assessment practices and highlight the potential benefits of AI in saving teachers’ time and providing them with valuable assessment information. We call for a shift in perspective, from viewing AI as a problem to be solved to recognizing its potential as a collaborative tool in education. We emphasize the need for future research to focus on the effective integration of AI in classrooms, teacher education, and the development of AI systems that can adapt to diverse teaching and learning contexts. We conclude by underlining the importance of addressing AI bias, understanding its implications, and developing guidelines for best practices in AI‐based formative assessment.
Optimization Bidding Strategy on Day Ahead and Balancing Market of PV Generator Considering Battery Integration
Authors: Jie Bo , Cui Jindan , Fang Xue , Oozeki Takashi , Ueda Yuzuru
Published: June 2023

To realize Carbon Neutrality, renewable energy would be the main source of electricity, such as photovoltaic (PV) power generation in the Japanese power system. However, a decrease in the number of operating thermal generators, the main source of balancing power in the Japanese balancing market, is causing concerns regarding a shortage of balancing power in the future. PV can therefore provide balancing power in addition to energy; thus, the PV power economic value in electricity markets will become diversified. A solution examination and rationality analysis of technical issues for PV‐based balancing power creation are needed. Here, by applying the proposed headroom control method based on the PV output curtailment beforehand, PV generator optimizes benefit by bidding into the balancing market when the spot market price is very low. Optimizing the bidding strategy on the spot market and balancing market is conducted, and battery integration is also considered. The optimization simulation results validate the possibility of creating balancing power by a PV power producer, and the total revenue valuation verifies a more beneficial effect. © 2023 Institute of Electrical Engineer of Japan and Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Brexpiprazole suppresses cell proliferation and de novo lipogenesis through AMPK/SREBP1 pathway in colorectal cancer
Authors: Li Ting , Liu Xiaojie , Long Xiaoyi , Li Yangyou , Xiang Jin , Lv Yuanxia , Zhao Xiaoyang , Shi Shaoqing , Chen Wei
Published: June 2023

Objective

In the present study, we investigated the role of brexpiprazole on cell proliferation and lipogenesis in colorectal cancer (CRC) and its molecular mechanism.

Methods

The effect of brexpiprazole on CRC cell proliferation was determined by CCK‐8, EdU assay, cell clone formation. The flow cytometry was evaluated cell cycle. Differential expression genes (DEGs) were identified by RNA‐seq assay after treating HCT116 cells with or without 20 μM brexpiprazole for 24 h. Then, the top 120 DEGs were analyzed by GO and KEGG enrichment analysis. After that, Oil red O staining and the levels of total cholestenone and triglyceride were measured to assess lipogenesis capacity in CRC cells. The related molecules of cell proliferation, lipogenic and AMPK/SREBP1 signal pathways were measured by q‐PCR, western blot and immunohistochemical staining.

Results

Brexpiprazole remarkably suppressed cell proliferation, lipogenesis, and induced cell cycle arrest in CRC. The underlying mechanisms probably involved the suppression of SREBP1 and the stimulation of AMPK.

Conclusion

Brexpiprazole inhibited cell proliferation and de novo lipogenesis through AMPK/SREBP1 pathway in CRC.
Law schools clearly affirming their missions
Authors: Elfman Lois
Published: June 2023

In early December, the University of Washington School of Law became one of a growing number of U.S. law schools deciding to end their participation in U.S. News & World Report rankings.
MicroRNAs as powerful tool against COVID‐19: Computational perspective
Authors: Omer Ankur
Published: June 2023

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 is the virus that is responsible for the current pandemic, COVID‐19 (SARS‐CoV‐2). MiRNAs, a component of RNAi technology, belong to the family of short, noncoding ssRNAs, and may be crucial in the battle against this global threat since they are involved in regulating complex biochemical pathways and may prevent viral proliferation, translation, and host expression. The complicated metabolic pathways are modulated by the activity of many proteins, mRNAs, and miRNAs working together in miRNA‐mediated genetic control. The amount of omics data has increased dramatically in recent years. This massive, linked, yet complex metabolic regulatory network data offers a wealth of opportunity for iterative analysis; hence, extensive, in‐depth, but time‐efficient screening is necessary to acquire fresh discoveries; this is readily performed with the use of bioinformatics. We have reviewed the literature on microRNAs, bioinformatics, and COVID‐19 infection to summarize (1) the function of miRNAs in combating COVID‐19, and (2) the use of computational methods in combating COVID‐19 in certain noteworthy studies, and (3) computational tools used by these studies against COVID‐19 in several purposes.

This article is categorized under:

Infectious Diseases > Computational Models
Monte Carlo Simulation Applicable for Predictive Algorithm Analysis in Aerospace
Authors: Bautista-Hernández Jorge , Martín-Prats María Ángeles
Published: June 2023

Safety investigations about electrical wiring harness caused by failures in electrical systems establish that origin of these accidents are related to electrical installation. Predictive techniques which mitigate and reduce risk of the occurrence of errors to enhance safety shall be considered. The development of machine learning has evolved towards the creation of innovative predictive algorithms which show high performance in data analysis and making predictions in the context of artificial intelligence. The Monte Carlo approach is used to validate the model performance. In this paper, Monte Carlo simulation was used to evaluate the level of the uncertainty of the selected parameters over 1000 runs. This study analyzes the reliability of the predictive algorithm in order to be implemented as an automatic error predictor in aerospace. The results obtained are within the expected range suggesting that the model used is accurate and reliable.
Embedding formalism for (p, q) AdS superspaces in three dimensions
Authors: Kuzenko Sergei M. , Turner Kai
Published: June 2023

Abstract

We develop an embedding formalism for (p, q) anti-de Sitter (AdS) superspaces in three dimensions by using a modified version of their supertwistor description given in the literature. A coset construction for these superspaces is worked out. We put forward a program of constructing a supersymmetric analogue of the Bañados metric, which is expected to be a deformation of the (p, q) AdS superspace geometry by a two-dimensional conformal (p, q) supercurrent multiplet.
Sociodemographic and clinical predictors of delay to and length of stay with early intervention for psychosis service: findings from the CRIS-FEP study
Authors: Oduola Sherifat , Craig Tom K. J. , Iacoponi Eduardo , Macdonald Alastair , Morgan Craig
Published: June 2023

Purpose

We investigated the influence of sociodemographic and clinical characteristics on delay to early intervention service (EIS) and the length of stay (LOS) with EIS.

Methods

We used incidence data linked to the Clinical Record Interactive Search—First Episode Psychosis (CRIS-FEP) study. We followed the patients from May 2010 to March 2016. We performed multivariable Cox regression to estimate hazard ratios of delay to EIS. Negative binomial regression was used to determine LOS with EIS by sociodemographic and clinical characteristics, controlling for confounders.

Results

343 patients were eligible for an EIS, 34.1% of whom did not receive the service. Overall, the median delay to EIS was 120 days (IQR; 15–1668); and the median LOS was 130.5 days (IQR 0–663). We found that women (adj.HR 0.58; 95%C I 0.42–0.78), living alone (adj.HR: 0.63; 95% CI 0.43–0.92) and ethnicity (‘Other’: adj.HR 0.47; 95% CI 0.23–0.98) were associated with prolonged delay to EIS. However, family involvement in help-seeking for psychosis (adj.HR 1.37; 95% CI 1.01–1.85) was strongly associated with a shorter delay to EIS. Patients who have used mental health services previously also experienced long delays to EIS.

Conclusions

Our analyses highlight the link between sociodemographic status, help-seeking behaviours, and delay to EIS. Our findings also show the vulnerability faced by those with a previous mental health problem who later develop psychosis in receiving specialist treatment for psychosis. Initiatives that ameliorate indicators of social disadvantage are urgently needed to reduce health inequalities and improve clinical outcomes.