bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Trenched and diked contours for sustainable agricultural utilization in changing world; soil hydrological, geomorphological, and physical perspectives from over 70 years of implementation in the Northern Negev
Authors: Mor‐Mussery Amir , Abu Glion Hiam , Shuker Shimshon , Najami Naim , Zaady Eli
Published: June 2023

Trenched and diked contours (TDC) are used in hilly arid regions worldwide to reduce runoff and soil erosion. The TDC is based on three parts: ‘runoff contributing area’, trench, and adjacent soil dike on the hillslope contours. Surveys over the Northern Negev indicate the hydrological interrelation between the inter‐dike surface and the dike. This study hypothesized that all the TDC parts are hydrologically interrelated. The objective is to analyze the soil's physical properties that influence the interrelation from dike construction until maturation and the influences of these interrelations on soil fertility, salinity, and stability. TDC systems, also known as ‘Shikim’, were constructed by the KKL‐JNF (Karen Kayemet L'Israel. The Jewish National Foundation) all over the hills of the Northern Negev, the semiarid region of Israel, from the 1950s until present, which gives the ability to analyze the dynamic of water flows inside the TDC s along their existence. The findings indicate three hydrological interrelations, (i) From the ‘runoff contributing area’ into the trench, which differs between the planted and un‐planted types; (ii) From the trench into the dike; (iii) and water migration in the ‘dike’ medium. Along the TDC maturation, the intensity of biological influences on these interrelations increases, leading to increased water mobilization to the trench (planting strip) and into the dike medium. The water migration in the ‘dike’ leads to forming of a soil bed adequate for sustainable agricultural utilization in its' downslope face. The finding of this study will maximize the agricultural utilization of the TDCs and their profitability.
Targeting the pathogenesis and boosting the therapeutic efficacy of Parkinson's disease by advanced nanoparticles
Authors: Liu Hanghang , Hua Menglong , Zheng Qing , Gao Yifan , Li Zhen
Published: June 2023

With the aging of global population, the early diagnosis and treatment of neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson's disease (PD) have attracted considerable attention. Despite great advances achieved during the past decades, PD as the second largest neurodegenerative disease is still incurable. In the clinical practice, PD patients are mainly treated by drugs, and supplemented with deep brain stimulation or nerve nucleus destruction. The existing drugs can only relieve the symptoms of motor disorder, and cannot stop the progression of PD. Compared with small molecular drugs, nanoparticles exhibit multiple functions in the neuroprotection and neurorepair due to their tunable physical and chemical properties, easy modification and functionalization. Herein, we first briefly review the characteristics of nanoparticles crossing the blood–brain barrier, which is a primary challenge for the treatment of PD. Then, we summarize the pathologic mechanisms of PD and comprehensively discuss the novel PD therapy based on diverse nanoparticles, including alleviating oxidative stress, scavenging α‐synuclein aggregates, chelating metal ions, delivering neurotrophic factors and genes, and transplanting stem cells. This review aims to highlight the great potential of advanced nanoparticles in the therapy of PD.
Tracing green growth through industrial resource efficiency patterns: The role of competitiveness and clean technologies
Authors: Chatzistamoulou Nikos , Kounetas Kostas
Published: June 2023

The European Green Deal entails benefits for industrial transition to cleaner production through resource efficiency, paving the way to green transition. We develop a conceptual framework to study the drivers of resource efficiency of European industries towards green growth via segments of the countries' competitiveness under technological heterogeneity. Data on 13 industries in 17 European countries over an 8‐year period is used. Evidence shows that isolated efforts to improve productive performance harms environmental efficiency in low competitiveness countries. Results show that industrial environmental performance is affected by country's competitiveness, contributing to the implementation of the New Industrial Strategy of Europe.
Strong convergence results of split equality hierarchical fixed point problems
Authors: Husain Shamshad , Asad Mohd , Babu Feeroz
Published: June 2023

The primary objective of this study is to approximate a nontrivial solution to a significant extension of the hierarchical fixed point problem, known as the split equality hierarchical fixed point problem, in the context of real Hilbert spaces. We present an accelerated simultaneous Halpern‐type iterative algorithm with a step size independent of the operator norms. This method combines accelerated extrapolation and the Halpern‐type iterative algorithm. Moreover, we analyze that the sequence pair induced by the suggested algorithm strongly converges to some solution to the split equality hierarchical fixed point problem under some simple control sequence conditions. Furthermore, we provide numerical experiments to demonstrate the rationality and superiority of our algorithm. Some notable recent findings in this field have been improved, generalized, and extended as an outcome of this paper.
Is Chemical Control for Crayfish in Hatchery Fish Shipments Practical?
Authors: Allert Ann L. , Westrich Daniel J. , Whites David W. , Knott Katrina K. , Storts Nathan , DiStefano Robert J.
Published: June 2023

Invasive crayfish (family Cambaridae) displace native crayfish species and alter aquatic habitat, community structure, and ecosystem function. We evaluated whether chemical control can be a reliable control agent for crayfish to ensure that shipments from fish hatcheries did not result in new infestations of invasive crayfish. A series of acute (≤1 h) toxicity tests were conducted to evaluate the toxicity of cypermethrin and pyrethrin to crayfish, freshwater mussels, and fish; chemical concentrations in test organisms; effectiveness of carbon-block filters to remove cypermethrin from test waters; and the cost of chemical control relative to extra handling of fish. Cypermethrin dosed at 75 μg/L for 15 min resulted in 100% mortality of adult white river crawfish Procambarus acutus and virile crayfish Faxonius virilis but did not cause >20% mortality in adult pondmussel Ligumia subrostrata, juvenile fatmucket Lampsilis siliquoidea, fingerling Bluegill Lepomis macrochirus, hybrid sunfish (Bluegill × Green Sunfish L. cyanellus), hybrid Striped Bass (White Bass Morone chrysops × Striped Bass M. saxatilis), yearling Paddlefish Polyodon spathula, or ready-to-eat Bluegill, hybrid sunfish, and Channel Catfish Ictalurus punctatus. Behavioral effects, such as loss of equilibrium or head shaking, were generally limited to 1 h postexposure. Mean concentrations of cypermethrin increased in fish fillets (4–26 μg/g) and whole fish (5–1,770 μg/g); therefore, regulations limiting harvest for up to 7 d following stocking may be required. A carbon-block filtration system was effective in reducing (<90%) cypermethrin concentrations and thus reducing potential effects to nontarget species in receiving waters. Extra handling of fish was more cost-effective for all fish tested except for Paddlefish, where the cost of chemical control was half that for extra handling. For all other fish tested, chemical control was 4–10 times more expensive than extra handling. Special use permits or chemical registration are needed before chemical control for crayfish could be routinely used at fish hatcheries.
Nurses' experience of integrating evidence‐based changes into their practice: A qualitative study
Authors: Khoddam Homeira , Modanloo Mahnaz , Mehrdad Neda , Heydari Fatemeh , Talebi Razieh
Published: June 2023

Aim

To explore the experiences of neonatal and NICU nurses on participating in evidence‐based changes in their neonatal pain management practice.

Design

It is a qualitative conventional content analysis.

Methods

A purposive sample with nurses working in neonatal and NICUs was used. The data were collected through 11 semi‐structured in‐depth individual interviews, five focused group discussions, and observations and analyzed using the conventional content analysis method based on the Elo and Kyngäs model. The COREQ checklist was used for writing the report.

Results

Analysis of gathered data led to the emergence of four themes, including ‘being in a supportive and encouraging atmosphere’, ‘a journey from resistance to adherence’, ‘achieving multi‐dimensional improvements’, and ‘facing obstructive challenges’.
An acid test for metformin†
Authors: Benjamin Don
Published: June 2023

Lactic acid export from highly glycolytic cancer cells is critical to maintain cellular homeostasis. The identification of syrosingopine as an inhibitor of the lactate transporters monocarboxylate transporter (MCT) 1 and the tumor‐induced isoform MCT4 suggests a potential therapeutic intervention. In a recent issue of this journal, Van der Vreken, Oudaert I and colleagues showed that syrosingopine, together with another drug metformin, had a synergistic effect in killing cultured multiple myeloma (MM) cell lines, primary MM blasts from patients, and in a mouse MM model. The antidiabetic drug metformin is currently also being investigated for anticancer efficacy. The synthetic lethality of these two drugs, which have good safety records and are approved for noncancer indications, raises the possibility of their combination for clinical anticancer therapy. © 2023 The Author. The Journal of Pathology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
Prediction of the optimal vulcanization of a fiber‐reinforced elastomeric isolator made of natural rubber‐ethylene propylene diene monomer blend
Authors: Pianese G. , Milani G. , Milani F.
Published: June 2023

To seismically isolate a structure, it is possible to interpose a rubber device between the foundation and superstructure that increases the period of the superstructure, a feature that allows the structure to be “transparent” to the seismic excitation. A package of several rubber pads typically constitutes a seismic isolator; they are 10–20 mm thick vertically interspersed with either steel laminas or fiber‐reinforced polymer dry textiles suitably treated. So, the rubber has a primary role and must be vulcanized correctly to create the polymer cross‐linking properly. All rubber mechanical properties are strongly affected by curing temperature and curing time. Under vulcanization is a typical production error that suppliers make in large‐scale productions, especially when the size of the devices is considerable. It is common to deal with elastomeric isolators where rubber pads have been treated at a largely suboptimal temperature. This article proposes a numerical model for predicting the cross‐linking degree of rubber pads used in seismic isolation and made by a natural rubber‐ethylene propylene diene monomer rubber compound. The aim is to correctly define the optimal curing temperature and exposition time for producing a rubber quadruple shear test specimen and a fiber reinforced elastomeric isolator (FREI). The model is a kinetic one and takes into consideration the induction time. An experimental investigation has been conducted to validate the model with visible inspections and hardness measurements taken on the rubber pads (quadruple shear specimens) and the rubber devices. The results have shown the reliability of the new numerical model proposed, with a homogeneous mechanical properties distribution obtained within the rubber pads and the FREI.
Investigating the exchange of plant material between European and African botanical institutions for research and development
Authors: Ashenafi Ayenew , Smith Paul , Kiehn Michael , Woldeyes Feleke , Demissew Sebsebe
Published: June 2023

Social Impact Statement

The exchange of plant material and data is essential for supporting collaborative research efforts to address global challenges. In order to promote collaboration between Plant Genetic Resource (PGR) organizations in conservation research and development and to improve the sustainable utilization of PGRs, constraints to plant material and data exchange must be addressed. This can only be achieved through the introduction of policy measures that will build trust among institutions and encourage facilitated plant material exchange, equitable benefit sharing, and compliance with Access and Benefit Sharing (ABS) instruments. The resulting improvements in the conservation and sustainable utilization of PGRs will improve food security, public health, livelihoods, sustainable development, and ecological sustainability.

The aim of this study was to assess the extent of plant material exchange between European and African Plant Genetic Resource (PGR) organizations for research and development.

Data were collected from Index Seminum databases and through a survey questionnaire. They were statistically analyzed using a chi‐square test and Spearman correlation coefficient using SPSS, version 25.

The study indicated that the extent of plant material exchange between African and European PGR organizations for research and development is insignificant compared with the exchange between European institutions. Plant material exchange usually included benefit sharing, and the most commonly shared benefits were knowledge transfer, participation in research, access to research results, and joint authorship of publications. Many of the respondents were not very familiar with Access and Benefit Sharing (ABS) principles and regulations. The major constraints to plant material exchange were found to be cumbersome bureaucratic procedures, poor knowledge of compliance requirements, lack of national ABS regulations, poor quality of data associated with collections, and lack of tracking mechanisms.

The low level of plant material exchange between African and European institutions is also most probably due to limited human and technological capacity in African institutions that restrict their involvement in research and development. Therefore, there is a need to build trust and to increase human and technological capacities for research in African institutions to strengthen collaboration by ensuring facilitated exchange and equitable benefit sharing.
Anterior component of Y‐Balance test is correlated to ankle dorsiflexion range of motion in futsal players: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Rafagnin Camilo Zumbi , Ferreira Arthur de Sá , Telles Gustavo Felicio , Lemos de Carvalho Thiago , Alexandre Dângelo José de Andrade , Nogueira Leandro Alberto Calazans
Published: June 2023

Background and purpose

Restricted dorsiflexion range of motion (DFROM) could impact dynamic balance in sports. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between dorsiflexion range of motion and the Y‐Balance Test (YBT) in elite futsal players.

Methods

Sixty‐one asymptomatic male futsal players (mean age 26.57 (5.64) years, a mean body mass index of 25.40 (2.69) kg/m2) were included. DFROM was measured by the weight‐bearing lunge test (WBLT). DFROM data were obtained using smartphone‐based motion capture. The Pearson correlation coefficient verified the correlation between the variables.

Results

Dominant and nondominant leg ankle DFROM was significantly correlated with the anterior component of YBT (r = 0.27 and 0.51, respectively). The posteromedial component and the composite score of the YBT were also significantly correlated with nondominant leg ankle DFROM (r = 0.31 and 0.34, respectively)]. The other measures were not statistically significant. DFROM explained between 7% and 24% of the variation of the distances reached in the YBT.

Conclusion

Dorsiflexion range of motion measured by weight bearing lunge test is positively correlated with dynamic balance in futsal players.
Effect of temperature and nucleotide on the binding of BiP chaperone to a protein substrate
Authors: Rivera Maira , Burgos‐Bravo Francesca , Engelberger Felipe , Asor Roi , Lagos‐Espinoza Miguel I. A. , Figueroa Maximiliano , Kukura Philipp , Ramírez‐Sarmiento César A. , Baez Mauricio , Smith Steven B. , Wilson Christian A. M.
Published: June 2023

BiP (immunoglobulin heavy‐chain binding protein) is a Hsp70 monomeric ATPase motor that plays broad and crucial roles in maintaining proteostasis inside the cell. Structurally, BiP is formed by two domains, a nucleotide‐binding domain (NBD) with ATPase activity connected by a flexible hydrophobic linker to the substrate‐binding domain. While the ATPase and substrate binding activities of BiP are allosterically coupled, the latter is also dependent on nucleotide binding. Recent structural studies have provided new insights into BiP's allostery; however, the influence of temperature on the coupling between substrate and nucleotide binding to BiP remains unexplored. Here, we study BiP's binding to its substrate at the single molecule level using thermo‐regulated optical tweezers which allows us to mechanically unfold the client protein and explore the effect of temperature and different nucleotides on BiP binding. Our results confirm that the affinity of BiP for its protein substrate relies on nucleotide binding, by mainly regulating the binding kinetics between BiP and its substrate. Interestingly, our findings also showed that the apparent affinity of BiP for its protein substrate in the presence of nucleotides remains invariable over a wide range of temperatures, suggesting that BiP may interact with its client proteins with similar affinities even when the temperature is not optimal. Thus, BiP could play a role as a “thermal buffer” in proteostasis.
Influence of the number of hosts and the risk of predation on the foraging behavior of the parasitoid Eretmocerus eremicus
Authors: Chavarín‐Gómez Luis Enrique , Torres‐Enciso Pedro , Palmeros‐Suárez Paola Andrea , Ramirez‐Romero Ricardo
Published: June 2023

Background

Parasitoids are natural enemies that can modify their behaviors as they search for hosts based on the characteristics of the sites in which they forage. Theoretical models predict that a parasitoid will stay for longer periods in high‐quality sites or patches than in those of low quality. In turn, patch quality may be linked to factors such as the number of hosts and the risk of predation. In the present study, we sought to determine if the factors of the number of hosts, risk of predation, and their interaction influence the foraging behavior of the parasitoid Eretmocerus eremicus (Hymenoptera: Aphelinidae) as theory predicts. To do this, we evaluated different parameters of parasitoid foraging behavior, such as residence time, number of oviposition events, and attacks, in sites of different patch quality.

Results

Our results show that when the factors, number of hosts, and, risk of predation, were evaluated separately, E. eremicus resided for longer periods and oviposited more frequently in patches with a high number of hosts and low risk of predation than in other patches. However, when both of these factors were combined, only the number of hosts influenced some aspects of the foraging behavior of this parasitoid, such as the number of oviposition events and attacks.

Conclusion

For some parasitoids like E. eremicus, theoretical predictions may be fulfilled when patch quality is linked to the number of hosts but will not be fully satisfied when patch quality is related to the risk of predation. Furthermore, at sites with different combinations of host numbers and risk of predation, host number appears to be more critical than predation risk. These results suggest that the performance of the parasitoid E. eremicus to control whiteflies will be mainly mediated by the levels of whitefly infestation and, to a small extent, by the risk of predation to which the parasitoid is subjected. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Synthesis of Multicolor Fluorescent N‐Doped Carbon Dots for Bioimaging Applications
Authors: Lee Hak Hyeon , Kim Jong Sung
Published: June 2023

Carbon dots (CDs) are attracting significant research attention due to their low toxicity and highly favorable photochemical properties. This study reports the synthesis of nitrogen‐doped CDs (N‐CDs) using 3‐aminophenol and o‐phenylenediamine as carbon precursors and their application to nontoxic, biocompatible polychromatic agents for biological imaging studies. The prepared N‐CDs exhibit multicolored fluorescence (blue, green, yellow, orange) with excellent optical stability and biocompatibility. As a result of Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, N‐CD is found to have similar –OH and C–H in the surface functional group, showing a graphene structure with good hydrophilicity. The size of the synthesized N‐CDs is confirmed by transmission electron microscopy images to be less than 10 nm. The 3‐4,5‐dimethylthiazol‐2,5‐diphenyl tetrazolium bromide analysis is performed using HeLa cells, and cell survival is very high in all N‐CDs. Among N‐CDs, G‐CDs exhibit the highest fluorescence intensity and provide excellent fluorescence microscopic images for cells in blue, green, and red channels.
Clinical features do not identify risk of progression from isolated postcapillary pulmonary hypertension to combined pre‐ and postcapillary pulmonary hypertension
Authors: Babu Gautam , Annis Jeffrey S. , Garry Jonah D. , Freiberg Matthew S. , Hemnes Anna R. , Brittain Evan L.
Published: June 2023

Pulmonary hypertension is a common sequelae of left heart failure and may present as isolated postcapillary pulmonary hypertension (Ipc‐PH) or combined pre‐ and postcapillary pulmonary hypertension (Cpc‐PH). Clinical features associated with progression from Ipc‐PH to Cpc‐PH have not yet been described. We extracted clinical data from patients who underwent right heart catheterizations (RHC) on two separate occasions. Ipc‐PH was defined as mean pulmonary pressure >20 mmHg, pulmonary capillary wedge pressure >15 mmHg, and pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR) < 3 WU. Progression to Cpc‐PH required an increase in PVR to ≥3 WU. We performed a retrospective cohort study with repeated assessments comparing subjects that progressed to Cpc‐PH to subjects that remained with Ipc‐PH. Of 153 patients with Ipc‐PH at baseline who underwent a repeat RHC after a median of 0.7 years (IQR 0.2, 2.1), 33% (50/153) had developed Cpc‐PH. In univariate analysis comparing the two groups at baseline, body mass index (BMI) and right atrial pressure were lower, while the prevalence of moderate or worse mitral regurgitation (MR) was higher among those who progressed. In age‐ and sex‐adjusted multivariable analysis, only BMI (OR 0.94, 95% CI 0.90–0.99, p = 0.017, C = 0.655) and moderate or worse MR (OR 3.00, 95% CI 1.37–6.60, p = 0.006, C = 0.654) predicted progression, but with poor discriminatory power. This study suggests that clinical features alone cannot distinguish patients at risk for development of Cpc‐PH and support the need for molecular and genetic studies to identify biomarkers of progression.
Endometrial thickness after dilation and evacuation: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Mastey Namrata , Baker Courtney C. , Uhm Suji , Chen Melissa J. , Matulich Melissa C. , Melo Juliana , Hou Melody Y. , Creinin Mitchell D.
Published: June 2023

Objective

To evaluate endometrial thickness 1–2 h after dilation and evacuation (D&E).

Methods

We used a deidentified single‐institution database to retrospectively evaluate endometrial thickness measurements obtained as part of routine care 1–2 h postprocedure using transabdominal ultrasonography from 17 March 2020 to 16 October 2020. From this database, we extracted measurements, procedural outcomes and postoperative bleeding interventions. We assessed our primary outcome of endometrial thickness and the relationship between endometrial thickness and the need for bleeding‐related interventions within 4 h postprocedure.

Results

We performed 213 endometrial thickness evaluations at a mean gestational age of 19.2 ± 2.8 weeks with median quantitative intraoperative blood loss of 150 mL (10–2000 mL). We found a median endometrial thickness of 12.2 mm (interquartile range [IQR]: 9.1–16 mm) performed 89.6 ± 19.3 min after the D&E. Eleven (5.2%) patients needed further interventions for bleeding during recovery, with all but one having bleeding issues before or at the same time as the ultrasound examination. Patients with and without bleeding issues had median endometrial thicknesses of 20.3 mm (IQR: 12.5–29.2 mm, range: 1.2–42 mm) and 12.2 mm (IQR: 9.0–15.8 mm, range: 2.1–43 mm), respectively, p = 0.008.

Conclusion

Endometrial thickness 1–2 h after D&E can vary widely but 75% of patients have a measurement <16 mm. Although patients with bleeding complications have slightly thicker endometrial linings, these patients typically present clinically and endometrial assessment does not predict the need for intervention.
Sulfide Oxidation on Ladder‐Type Heteroarenes to Construct All‐Acceptor Copolymers for Visible‐Light‐Driven Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Lin Wei‐Cheng , Chang Chih‐Li , Shih Chin‐Hsuan , Lin Wan‐Chi , Yu Lai Ze‐ , Chang Je‐Wei , Ting Li‐Yu , Huang Tse‐Fu , Sun Yu‐En , Huang Hung‐Yi , Lin Yu‐Tung , Liu Jia‐Jen , Wu Yi‐Hsiang , Tseng Yuan‐Ting , Zhuang Ying‐Rang , Li Bing‐Heng , Su An‐Chung , Yu Chi‐Hua , Chen Chin‐Wen , Lin Kun‐Han , Jeng U‐Ser , Chou Ho‐Hsiu
Published: June 2023

Conjugated polymers (CPs) have recently gained increasing attention as photocatalysts for sunlight‐driven hydrogen evolution. However, they suffer from insufficient electron output sites and poor solubility in organic solvents, severely limiting their photocatalytic performance and applicability. Herein, solution‐processable all–acceptor (A1–A2)‐type CPs based on sulfide‐oxidized ladder‐type heteroarene are synthesized. A1–A2‐type CPs showed upsurging efficiency improvements by two to three orders of magnitude, compared to their donor–acceptor ‐type CP counterparts. Furthermore, by seawater splitting, PBDTTTSOS exhibited an apparent quantum yield of 18.9% to 14.8% at 500 to 550 nm. More importantly, PBDTTTSOS achieved an excellent hydrogen evolution rate of 35.7 mmol h−1 g−1 and 150.7 mmol h−1 m−2 in the thin‐film state, which is among the highest efficiencies in thin film polymer photocatalysts to date. This work provides a novel strategy for designing polymer photocatalysts with high efficiency and broad applicability.
Synthesis, Characterization, and Investigation of Coating Properties of Carboxymethyl Acorn Starch (CMAS)
Authors: Celikci Nuran , Shaikiyeva Nurzat , Moldobaev Mirlan , Kemelov Kubat , Iskakova Janyl , Dolaz Mustafa
Published: June 2023

Kyrgyzstan is a landlocked country in Central Asia, famous for its crystal‐clear lakes, majestic Tien Shan Mountains that bisect the territory of Turkistan, and magnificent natural beauty. This study aims to evaluate the fruit (acorns) of the oak trees (Quercus roburL.) grown in Bishkek, the capital city of Kyrgyzstan. For this purpose, carboxymethyl acorn starch (CMAS), which is not synthesized in literature, is first synthesized by isolating acorn starch (AS) from the acorns. The structures of CMASs are characterized by1H(13C)‐NMR, FT‐IR, XRD, and SEM techniques. The viscosities of the samples with different degrees of substitution (DS), such as 0.62, 0.95, and 1.01, determined by the titrimetric method, are measured as 247, 600, and 388 mPa s, respectively. In addition, considering the film‐forming properties of CMASs, tomatoes are coated, and their shelf lives are investigated. Weight loss (WL) is 38.36% in control and 25.52% in coated tomato after 4 weeks. The needle penetration depth is measured as 388 mm in the control and 249 mm in the coated tomato. Total soluble solids (TSS) content showed approximate results in both samples. Control tomatoes containing 78.8 mg 100 g−1ascorbic acid lost significantly during storage, reducing to 13.90 mg 100 g−1.
Dark matter and dark radiation from the early universe with a modulus coupled to the PQMSSM
Authors: Baer Howard , Barger Vernon , Deal Robert Wiley
Published: June 2023

Abstract

The supersymmetrized DFSZ axion model is especially compelling in that it contains 1. the SUSY solution to the gauge hierarchy problem, 2. the Peccei-Quinn (PQ) solution to the strong CP problem and 3. the Kim-Nilles solution to the SUSY μ problem. In a string setting, where a discrete R-symmetry ($$ {\textbf{Z}}_{24}^R $$

Z
24
R

for example) may emerge from the compactification process, a high-quality accidental axion (accion) can emerge from the accidental, approximate remnant global U(1)PQ symmetry where the decay constant fa is linked to the SUSY breaking scale, and is within the cosmological sweet zone. In this setup, one also expects the presence of stringy remnant moduli fields ϕi. Here, we consider the situation of a single light modulus ϕ coupled to the PQMSSM in the early universe, with mixed axion plus higgsino-like WIMP dark matter. We evaluate dark matter and dark radiation production via nine coupled Boltzmann equations and assess the severity of the cosmological moduli problem (CMP) along with dark matter and dark radiation production rates. We find that typically the light modulus mass should be mϕ ≳ 104 TeV to avoid the moduli-induced dark matter overproduction problem. If one is able to (anthropically) tune the modulus field amplitude, we find a value of ϕ0 ≲ 10–7mP would be required to solve the overall CMP.
To Half-Be or Not To Be?
Authors: de Rham Claudia , Garcia-Saenz Sebastian , Heisenberg Lavinia , Pozsgay Victor , Wang Xinmiao
Published: June 2023

Abstract

It has recently been argued that half degrees of freedom could emerge in Lorentz and parity invariant field theories, using a non-linear Proca field theory dubbed Proca-Nuevo as a specific example. We provide two proofs, using the Lagrangian and Hamiltonian pictures, that the theory possesses a pair of second class constraints, leaving D − 1 degrees of freedom in D spacetime dimensions, as befits a consistent Proca model. Our proofs are explicit and straightforward in two dimensions and we discuss how they generalize to an arbitrary number of dimensions. We also clarify why local Lorentz and parity invariant field theories cannot hold half degrees of freedom.
Isospin mass differences of the B, D and K
Authors: Rowe Matthew , Zwicky Roman
Published: June 2023

Abstract

We compute the electromagnetic mass difference for the B-, D- and K-mesons using QCD sum rules with double dispersion relations. For the B- and D-mesons we also compute the linear quark mass correction, whereas for the K the standard soft theorems prove more powerful. The mass differences, which have not previously been computed via a double dispersion, are fully consistent with experiment, albeit with large uncertainties.
Cornering large-Nc QCD with positivity bounds
Authors: Fernandez Clara , Pomarol Alex , Riva Francesco , Sciotti Francesco
Published: June 2023

Abstract

The simple analytic structure of meson scattering amplitudes in the large-Nc limit, combined with positivity of the spectral density, provides precise predictions on low-energy observables. Building upon previous studies, we explore the allowed regions of chiral Lagrangian parameters and meson couplings to pions. We reveal a structure of kinks at all orders in the chiral expansion and develop analytical tools to show that kinks always correspond to amplitudes with a single light pole. We build (scalar- and vector-less) deformations of the Lovelace-Shapiro and Coon UV-complete amplitudes, and show that they lie close to the boundaries. Moreover, constraints from crossing-symmetry imply that meson couplings to pions become smaller as their spin increases, providing an explanation for the success of Vector Meson Dominance and holographic QCD. We study how these conclusions depend on assumptions about the high-energy behavior of amplitudes. Finally, we emphasize the complementarity between our results and Lattice computations in the exploration of large-Nc QCD.
Multilokuläres Pyoderma gangraenosum
Authors: Kögel Julian , Berneburg Mark , Karrer Sigrid , Drexler Konstantin , Niebel Dennis
Published: June 2023

Vorstellung einer 16-jährigen Patientin mit vorbekannter Acne vulgaris in reduziertem Allgemeinzustand mit akut aufgetretenen, schmerzhaften Ulzerationen. Die Infektparameter zeigten sich stark erhöht, es bestand kein Fieber. Wir stellten die Diagnose eines multilokulären Pyoderma gangraenosum. Nebenbefundlich konnte eine primär biliäre Cholangitis diagnostiziert werden. Wir führten eine systemische Kortikosteroidtherapie durch sowie eine Therapie mit Ursodesoxycholsäure. Hierunter kam es zu einer raschen Besserung. Ein PAPA-Syndrom konnte humangenetisch ausgeschlossen werden.
Influence of deoxynivalenol and zearalenone on the immunohistochemical expression of oestrogen receptors and liver enzyme genes in vivo in prepubertal gilts
Authors: Gajęcka Magdalena , Otrocka-Domagała Iwona , Brzuzan Paweł , Zielonka Łukasz , Dąbrowski Michał , Gajęcki Maciej T.
Published: June 2023

Deoxynivalenol (DON) and zearalenone (ZEN) are often detected in plant materials used to produce feed for pre-pubertal gilts. Daily exposure to small amounts of these mycotoxins causes subclinical conditions in pigs and affects various biological processes (e.g. mycotoxin biotransformation). The aim of this preclinical study was to evaluate the effect of low monotonic doses of DON and ZEN (12 µg/kg body weight—BW—and 40 µg/kg BW, respectively), administered alone or in combination to 36 prepubertal gilts for 42 days, on the degree of immunohistochemical expression of oestrogen receptors (ERs) in the liver and the mRNA expression of genes encoding selected liver enzymes during biotransformation processes. The level of expression of the analysed genes proves that the tested mycotoxins exhibit variable biological activity at different stages of biotransformation. The biological activity of low doses of mycotoxins determines their metabolic activity. Therefore, taking into account the impact of low doses of mycotoxins on energy-intensive processes and their endogenous metabolism, it seems that the observed situation may lead to the activation of adaptation mechanisms.
Role of miR-24-3p and miR-146a-5p in dendritic cells’ maturation process induced by contact sensitizers
Authors: Galbiati Valentina , Lefevre Marine-Alexia , Maddalon Ambra , Vocanson Marc , Iulini Martina , Marinovich Marina , Corsini Emanuela
Published: June 2023

MiRNAs are non-coding RNA molecules that regulate gene expression at the post-transcriptional level. Although allergic contact dermatitis has been studied extensively, few studies addressed miRNA expression and their role in dendritic cell activation. The main aim of this work was to investigate the role of miRNAs in the underlying mechanism of dendritic cell maturation induced by contact sensitizers of different potency. Experiments were conducted using THP-1-derived immature DCs (iDCs). Contact allergens of different potency were used: p-benzoquinone, Bandrowski’s base, and 2,4-dinitrochlorobenzene as extreme; nickel sulfate hexahydrate, diethyl maleate and 2-mercaptobenzothiazole as moderate; and α-hexyl cinnamaldehyde, eugenol, and imidazolidinyl urea as weak. Selective inhibitor and mimic miRNAs were then used and several cell surface markers was evaluated as targets. Also, patients patch tested with nickel were analyzed to determine miRNAs expression. Results indicate an important role of miR-24-3p and miR-146a-5p in DCs activation. miR-24-3p was up-regulated by extreme and weak contact allergens, while miR-146a-5p was up-regulated by weak and moderate contact allergens and down-regulated only by the extreme ones. Also, the involvement of PKCβ in contact allergen-induced miR-24-3p and miR-146a-5p expression was demonstrated. Furthermore, the expression of the two miRNAs maintains the same trend of expression in both in vitro and in human conditions after nickel exposure. Results obtained suggest the involvement of miR-24 and miR-146a in DCs maturation process in the proposed in vitro model, supported also by human evidences.
Development and validation of a hybrid simulator for ultrasound-guided laparoscopic common bile duct exploration
Authors: Shao Marine Y. , Aburrous Mohamed , Huson David , Parraman Carinna , Hardeberg Jon Y. , Clark James
Published: June 2023

Background

Ultrasound-guided laparoscopic common bile duct exploration (LCBDE) is the surgical management of choledocholithiasis. The procedure presents significant benefits to patients but still fails to be generalised because of the complex set of skills it requires. A simulator for ultrasound-guided LCBDE would allow trainee surgeons as well as experienced surgeons who perform this surgery seldomly to practice and gain confidence.

Methods

This article presents the development and validation of an easily reproducible hybrid simulator for ultrasound-guided LCBDE which integrates real and virtual components of the task. We first developed a physical model made of silicone. The fabrication technique is replicable and allows quick and easy production of multiple models. We then applied virtual components onto the model to create training for laparoscopic ultrasound examination. Combined with a commercially available lap-trainer and surgical equipment, the model can be used for training the fundamental steps of the surgery through the trans-cystic or trans-choledochal approaches. The simulator was evaluated through face, content, and construct validation.

Results

Two novices, eight middle grades, and three experts were recruited to test the simulator. The results of the face validation showed that the surgeons found the model realistic visually and felt realistic when performing the different steps of the surgery. The content validation indicated the usefulness of having a training system to practice the choledochotomy, the choledochoscopy and stone retrieval, and the suturing. The construct validation highlighted the ability of the simulator to differentiate between surgeons with various levels of expertise.

Conclusions

The hybrid simulator presented is a low-cost yet realistic model which allows the surgeons to practice the technical skills required for trans-cystic and trans-choledochal ultrasound-guided LCBDE.
The impact of delayed gastric emptying as measured by gastric emptying scintigraphy on the outcome of magnetic sphincter augmentation
Authors: Eriksson Sven E. , Zheng Ping , Sarici Inanc S. , Shen Xinxin , Jobe Blair A. , Ayazi Shahin
Published: June 2023

Introduction

The impact of delayed gastric emptying (DGE) on the outcome of anti-reflux surgery (ARS) is controversial. There is concern that poor gastric emptying diminishes outcomes. Magnetic sphincter augmentation (MSA) may have a comparatively mild impact on gastric physiology, but the relationship between DGE and MSA outcomes is unknown. This study aims to evaluate the relationship between objective DGE and MSA outcomes over time.

Methods

Patients who completed gastric emptying scintigraphy (GES) prior to MSA between 2013 and 2021 were included. DGE was defined as a 4 h retention > 10% or half emptying time > 90 min on GES. Outcomes were compared between DGE and normal gastric emptying (NGE) groups at 6 months, 1 and 2 years. Sub-analysis of patients with severe (> 35%) DGE and correlation analysis between 4-h retention and symptom and acid-normalization were performed.

Results

The study population consisted of 26 (19.8%) patients with DGE and 105 with NGE. DGE was associated with more 90-days readmissions (18.5 vs 2.9%, p = 0.009).

At 6 months patients with DGE had higher median (IQR) GERD-HRQL total [17.0(10–29) vs 5.5(3–16), p = 0.0013], heartburn [1(1–3) vs 0(0–1), p = 0.0010) and gas-bloat [4(2–5) vs 2(1–3), p = 0.033] scores.

Outcomes at 1 and 2 years follow-up were comparable (p > 0.05). From 6 months to 1-year the gas-bloat score decreased from 4(2–5) to 3(1–3), p = 0.041. Total and heartburn scores decreased, but not significantly.

Severe DGE (n = 4) patients had lower antiacid medication freedom at 6 months (75 vs 87%, p = 0.014) and 1-year (50 vs 92%, p = 0.046). There were non-significant trends for higher GERD-HRQL scores, dissatisfaction, and removal rates in severe DGE at 6 months and 1-year.

There was a weak correlation between 4-h retention and 6-month GERD-HRQL total score [R = 0.253, 95%CI (0.09–0.41), p = 0.039], but not acid-normalization (p > 0.05).

Conclusion

Outcomes after MSA are diminished early on in patients with mild-to-moderate DGE, but comparable by 1 year and durable at 2 years. Severe DGE outcomes may be suboptimal.

Graphical abstract
Anytime bottom-up rule learning for large-scale knowledge graph completion
Authors: Meilicke Christian , Chekol Melisachew Wudage , Betz Patrick , Fink Manuel , Stuckeschmidt Heiner
Published: June 2023

Knowledge graph completion is the task of predicting correct facts that can be expressed by the vocabulary of a given knowledge graph, which are not explicitly stated in that graph. Broadly, there are two main approaches for solving the knowledge graph completion problem. Sub-symbolic approaches embed the nodes and/or edges of a given graph into a low-dimensional vector space and use a scoring function to determine the plausibility of a given fact. Symbolic approaches learn a model that remains within the primary representation of the given knowledge graph. Rule-based approaches are well-known examples. One such approach is AnyBURL. It works by sampling random paths, which are generalized into Horn rules. Previously published results show that the prediction quality of AnyBURL is close to current state of the art with the additional benefit of offering an explanation for a predicted fact. In this paper, we propose several improvements and extensions of AnyBURL. In particular, we focus on AnyBURL’s capability to be successfully applied to large and very large datasets. Overall, we propose four separate extensions: (i) We add to each rule a set of pairwise inequality constraints which enforces that different variables cannot be grounded by the same entities, which results into more appropriate confidence estimations. (ii) We introduce reinforcement learning to guide path sampling in order to use available computational resources more efficiently. (iii) We propose an efficient sampling strategy to approximate the confidence of a rule instead of computing its exact value. (iv) We develop a new multithreaded AnyBURL, which incorporates all previously mentioned modifications. In an experimental study, we show that our approach outperforms both symbolic and sub-symbolic approaches in large-scale knowledge graph completion. It has a higher prediction quality and requires significantly less time and computational resources.
Labour relations and working conditions of workers on smallholder cocoa farms in Ghana
Authors: Kissi Evans Appiah , Herzig Christian
Published: June 2023

The millions of farm workers in the Global South are an important resource for smallholder producers. However, research on their labour organisation is limited. This article focuses on smallholder farm workers in Ghana’s cocoa sector, drawing on insights from qualitative interviews and the concept of bargaining power. We review the labour relations and working conditions of two historical and informally identified labour supply setups (LSSs) in Ghana’s cocoa sector, namely, hired labour and Abusa, a form of landowner–caretaker relations, and identify an imbalance of horizontal power. Further, we analyse the labour relations and working conditions of an emerging and formal LSS in Ghana’s cocoa sector: private labour providers (PLPs). We argue that PLPs are likely to address the imbalance of horizontal power between farm workers and smallholders and bring about significant improvements in the working conditions of farm workers. We also assess the sustainability potential and limitations of PLPs and argue that tensions exist. We contribute to the growing horizontal power perspective by providing avenues for research and policy related to promoting sustained labour rights for farm workers in smallholder agriculture in the Global South.
Association Between rs217727 and rs2839698 H19 Polymorphisms and Obesity
Authors: Ghafouri-Fard Soudeh , Dadyar Maryam , Azizi Shahryar , Eslami Solat , Hussen Bashdarm Mahmud , Taheri Mohammad , Rashnoo Fariborz
Published: June 2023

Obesity is a worldwide health problem with an increasing trend. This condition has a significant genetic background. H19 lncRNA has been shown to protect from dietary obesity through decreasing levels of monoallelic genes in brown fat. In the current study, we aimed to find the association between two possibly functional H19 polymorphisms, namely rs217727 and rs2839698 and obesity in Iranian population. These polymorphisms have been shown to affect risk of some obesity-related conditions in different populations. The study included 414 obese cases and 392 controls. Notably, both rs2839698 and rs217727 were associated with obesity in the allelic model as well as all supposed inheritance models. In addition, after adjustment for gender, all P values remained significant. For rs2839698, the OR (95% CI) for T allele vs. C allele was 3.29 (2.67–4.05) (P-value < 0.0001). In the co-dominant model, both TT and CT genotypes were found to confer risk of obesity compared with CC genotype (OR (95% CI)= 14.02 (8.39–23.43) and 9.45 (6.36–14.04), respectively). Similarly, combination of TT and CT genotypes had an OR (95% CI) = 10.32 (7.03–15.17) when compared with CC genotype. For rs217727, the T allele was found to exert a protective effect (OR (95% CI) = 0.6 (0.48–0.75)). Moreover, in the co-dominant model, OR (95% CI) values for TT and TC genotypes vs. CC genotype were 0.23 (0.11–0.46) and 0.65 (0.49–0.87), respectively. Taken together, H19 polymorphisms may affect risk of obesity in Iranian population. It is necessary to conduct functional studies to confirm a causal relationship between the rs217727 and rs2839698 polymorphisms and obesity.
Supporting implementation science and health equity in cancer prevention and control through research networks
Authors: Adsul Prajakta , Wheeler Stephanie B. , Young Alexa L. , Lee Rebecca J. , Brandt Heather M.
Published: June 2023

The Cancer Prevention and Control Research Network (CPCRN) is a national network of academic, public health, and community organizational partners across multiple geographic sites who collaborate to reduce the cancer burden in diverse communities. Given key recommendations that suggest the need for cross-disciplinary collaboration in cancer prevention and control, we sought to explore the historical and contemporary evolution of health equity and disparities research as an area of focus within the CPCRN over time. We conducted 22 in-depth interviews with former and current leaders, co-investigators, and other members of the network. Several key themes emerged from data that were analyzed and interpreted using a constructivist, reflexive, thematic analysis approach. Nearly all participants reported a strong focus on studying health disparities since the inception of the CPCRN, which offered the network a distinct advantage in recent years for incorporating an intentional focus on health equity. Recent law enforcement injustices and the inequities observed during the COVID-19 pandemic have further invigorated network activities around health equity, such as development of a health equity-focused workgroup toolkit, among other cross-center activities. Several participants noted that, in terms of deep, meaningful, and impactful health equity-oriented research, there are still great strides for the network to make, while also acknowledging CPCRN as well-aligned with the national dialogue led by federal agency partners around health equity. Finally, several future directions were mentioned by the participants, including a focus on supporting a diverse workforce and engaging organizational partners and community members in equity-focused research. Findings from these interviews provide direction for the network in advancing the science in cancer prevention and control, with a strengthened focus on health equity.