bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Detection and distribution of the North Atlantic capelin (Mallotus villosus) using environmental DNA—comparison with data from the main fishery management survey
Authors: Pampoulie Christophe , Singh Warsha , Guðnason Kristinn , Bárðarson Birkir , Ólafsdóttir Guðbjörg , Þórarinsson Þorri , Sveinsson Sæmundur , Gíslason Davið
Published: April 2023

Capelin (Mallotus villosus) is both an important commercial and ecological resource of the North Atlantic subpolar region. Two decades ago, the stock distribution around Iceland drastically changed. During autumn, which corresponds to the main feeding period, the capelin stock was previously located between the North of Iceland and the Jan Mayen area. Since the beginning of 2000s, the feeding aggregation has been located at the east coast of Greenland, inducing slight changes in the timing and route of the capelin spawning migration along the Icelandic shelf, and therefore in the catches. Changes in the distribution of capelin around Iceland made it both more difficult and expensive to assess the distribution of the stock with current survey methods. Here, we compare environmental DNA (eDNA) data to the acoustic data collected during the autumn monitoring survey, which leads to a preliminary estimation of the stock size. eDNA samples were collected at five different depths and were analyzed both horizontally across latitudes and longitudes and vertically across depth profiles. We detected eDNA in most of the locations where acoustic data detected capelin. Generalized linear models suggested that eDNA concentrations can be used as a proxy for the detection and quantification of capelin. The horizontal distribution of eDNA observed during both years corresponds with the horizontal distribution of capelin registered with the acoustic approach, while the vertical distribution indicated both effects of oceanic currents and diel vertical migration on eDNA detection and quantification.
Recent advances and interfacial challenges in solid‐state electrolytes for rechargeable Li‐air batteries
Authors: Hou Yue , Chen Ze , Zhang Rong , Cui Huilin , Yang Qi , Zhi Chunyi
Published: April 2023

Among the promising batteries for electric vehicles, rechargeable Li‐air (O2) batteries (LABs) have risen keen interest due to their high energy density. However, safety issues of conventional nonaqueous electrolytes remain the bottleneck of practical implementation of LABs. Solid‐state electrolytes (SSEs) with non‐flammable and eco‐friendly properties are expected to alleviate their safety concerns, which have become a research focus in the research field of LABs. Herein, we present a systematic review on the progress of SSEs for rechargeable LABs, mainly focusing on the interfacial issues existing between the SSEs and electrodes. The discussion highlights the challenges and feasible strategies for designing suitable SSEs for LABs.
Less disagreement, better forecasts: Adjusted risk measures in the energy futures market
Authors: Zhang Ning , Gong Yujing , Xue Xiaohan
Published: April 2023

This paper develops a generic adjustment framework to improve in the market risk forecasts of diverse risk forecasting models, which indicates the degree to which risk is under‐ and overestimated. In the context of the energy commodity market, a market in which tail risk management is of crucial importance, the empirical analysis shows that after this adjustment framework is applied, the forecasting performance of various risk models generally improves, as verified by a battery of backtesting methods. Additionally, our method also lessens the risk model disagreement among post‐adjusted risk forecasts.
Focal mu‐opioid receptor activation promotes neuroinflammation and microglial activation in the mesocorticolimbic system: Alterations induced by inflammatory pain
Authors: Cuitavi Javier , Andrés‐Herrera Paula , Meseguer David , Campos‐Jurado Yolanda , Lorente Jesús D. , Caruana Hannah , Hipólito Lucía
Published: April 2023

Microglia participates in the modulation of pain signaling. The activation of microglia is suggested to play an important role in affective disorders that are related to a dysfunction of the mesocorticolimbic system (MCLS) and are commonly associated with chronic pain. Moreover, there is evidence that mu‐opioid receptors (MORs), expressed in the MCLS, are involved in neuroinflammatory events, although the way by which they do it remains to be elucidated. In this study, we propose that MOR pharmacological activation within the MCLS activates and triggers the local release of proinflammatory cytokines and this pattern of activation is impacted by the presence of systemic inflammatory pain. To test this hypothesis, we used in vivo microdialysis coupled with flow cytometry to measure cytokines release in the nucleus accumbens and immunofluorescence of IBA1 in areas of the MCLS on a rat model of inflammatory pain. Interestingly, the treatment with DAMGO, a MOR agonist locally in the nucleus accumbens, triggered the release of the IL1α, IL1β, and IL6 proinflammatory cytokines. Furthermore, MOR pharmacological activation in the ventral tegmental area (VTA) modified the levels of IBA1‐positive cells in the VTA, prefrontal cortex, the nucleus accumbens and the amygdala in a dose‐dependent way, without impacting mechanical nociception. Additionally, MOR blockade in the VTA prevents DAMGO‐induced effects. Finally, we observed that systemic inflammatory pain altered the IBA1 immunostaining derived from MOR activation in the MSCLS. Altogether, our results indicate that the microglia–MOR relationship could be pivotal to unravel some inflammatory pain‐induced comorbidities related to MCLS dysfunction.
Dietary patterns, social determinants, and emotions during COVID‐19 confinement in Panama: An online survey
Authors: Rios Maritza , Subinas Jon , Delgado Celestina , Torres Eliecer , Goodridge Amador , Cubilla‐Batista Idalina
Published: April 2023

Aim

We aimed to evaluate health and nutrition behaviors among the Panamanian population during the confinement period corresponding to the first wave of the COVID‐19 pandemic.

Methods

We conducted a cross‐sectional study using an online survey for data collection with a total of 2475 participants over the age of 18 using an online survey. We also completed 64 face‐to‐face interviews. After data validation, 1561 surveys were included in the study. Most respondents were women (74.2%) between 18 and 49 years old. Among the respondents, 83.3% had a university education level, and 49.9% reported a monthly family income of fewer than 1000 USD. In addition, more than 50% self‐reported as overweight or obese.

Results

We identified three dietary patterns: a healthy, a non‐healthy, and a mixed dietary pattern. The respondents with healthy and nonhealthy dietary patterns reported better socioeconomic conditions than participants from the mixed dietary pattern. Individuals with mixed dietary patterns had lower incomes, less education, and higher unemployment rates. Regarding emotions, we found that women experienced more negative emotions, such as fear, worry, and anxiety, during the lockdown period.

Conclusions

Taken together, these results indicate that the mobility restriction measures imposed during the COVID‐19 pandemic could have affected dietary patterns by exacerbating existing inequalities. Directing resources toward promoting healthy nutrition strategies with the most significant positive impacts on public health is a priority, especially in critical situations such as the COVID‐19 pandemic.
Fanconi anemia phenotypic and transplant outcomes' associations in Iranian patients
Authors: Ansari Faezeh , Behfar Maryam , Naji Parisa , Darvish Zahra , Rostami Tahereh , Mohseni Rashin , Alimoghaddam Kamran , Salajegheh Pouria , Ahadi Batool , Mardani Mahta , Hamidieh Amir Ali
Published: April 2023

Objectives

Fanconi anemia (FA) is a rare, heterogeneous, inherited disorder. Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) represents the only therapeutic option to restore normal hematopoiesis. This study reports the outcomes of FA‐HSCT patients and identifies factors, including clinical phenotype. Our team examined more than 95% of Iranian FA patients during the last decade.

Study Design

One hundred and six FA patients (age range: 2–41) who underwent HSCT from March 2007 to February 2018 were enrolled. Clinical characteristics of genetic disease, pre‐HSCT findings, HSCT indication, and long‐term follow‐up evaluated and recorded. Data were analyzed using SPSS 19.0.

Results

The mean follow‐up period for survivors was 36 months (range, 1–101). The 3‐year overall survival (OS) and disease‐free survival were 72.2% and 71.2%, respectively. The 3‐year OS rate for patients with limited and extensive malformations was 78.8% and 56.6%, respectively (p = 0.025). Acute graft versus host disease incidence was 60.52% for patients with limited malformations versus 70% for patients with extensive ones (p = 0.49). Chronic graft versus host disease incidence for these two groups was 9.21% and 10%, respectively (p = 0.91).

Conclusions

OS was not associated with each of the malformations singly; however, it was lower in the extensive group. The younger age of patients at the HSCT time leads to a higher OS. The differences in FA patients' outcomes and the various genotypes were probably related. These data provide a powerful tool for further studies on genotype–phenotype association with HSCT results.
Unraveling the Antibacterial and Iron Chelating Activity ofN‐Oxide Hydroxy‐Phenazine natural Products and Synthetic Analogs againstStaphylococcus aureus
Authors: Alatawneh Nadeem , Meijler Michael M.
Published: April 2023

Phenazines are redox‐active secondary metabolites produced by many microorganisms, especially by bacteria. These compounds are often produced at high cell densities in various niches.Pseudomonasstrains are the most common phenazine producers, and phenazine production in these bacteria is controlled by quorum sensing, a mechanism that enables bacteria to collectively respond to changes in cell density. As phenazines exhibit a wide range of activities against many different species, this has led to increased interest and studies related to their mechanisms of action. In this work, we have investigated and evaluated the activity of an array of phenazine‐based natural products and their analogs on Gram‐positive bacteria that share the same natural niches withPseudomonas, such as the human pathogenStaphylococcus aureus. This human pathogen plays a major role in lung infections and is often found in such infections together withP. aeruginosa. Among the screened compounds, hydroxyl‐containing phenazines with a 5,10‐dioxide scaffold were found to exhibit potent inhibitory effects on the growth ofS. aureus. The natural product iodinin (1,6‐dihydroxyphenazine 5,10‐dioxide, 6), which was chosen as a model for this class of compounds has been found to strongly chelate iron (II), thus we examined the potential role of iron starvation in suppressing the growth of this pathogen by these phenazines that are generally linked to reactive oxygen species formation mechanisms. Our results suggest that chelation of essential metals, leading to a lack of important nutrients could have a significant contribution to the antibacterial activity of these phenazines, alongside with ROS production, DNA damage and oxidative stress.
Using click reaction to covalently link heterogeneous gold nanorods into head‐to‐head one‐dimensional chains with an alternating sequence as plasmonic Fano resonators
Authors: Chen Chen , Lin Zhan‐Hong , Lin Fan‐Cheng , Huang Li‐De , Lin Chun‐Cheng , Huang Jer‐Shing
Published: April 2023

We present the deterministic linkage of short and long gold nanorods into one‐dimensional (1D) alternating nanorod chains in a head‐to‐head manner using click reactions. By precisely controlling the surface chemistry, we achieve orientation‐specific and robust covalent linkage between nanorods with high‐product yield. The optical response of the alternating nanorod chains exhibits Fano‐like resonances. This method enables the high‐throughput production of covalently linked plasmonic particle networks consisting of heterogeneous nanoparticles with specifically chosen spectral responses.
Design of a dual‐band power amplifier over an octave bandwidth employing dual‐band resonators
Authors: Liu Jinting , Liu Chong , Shao Zhuang , Shi Weimin
Published: April 2023

In this article, a compact dual‐band resonator is proposed for designing dual‐band power amplifiers (DBPAs). The proposed resonator has the characteristics of the band‐pass filters, suppressing the out‐of band signals. It is illustrated the proposed resonator has a simple circuit topology without sacrificing the performances of the DBPA. To verify the methodology, a high efficiency DBPA prototype operating at 1.72 and 3.48 GHz is fabricated and measured. The DBPA obtains a bandwidth of 100 and 50 MHz at the low and high frequency bands, respectively. The measurement results show that the DBPA delivers a saturation power of 43.1 and 40.8 dBm at 1.72 and 3.48 GHz, respectively. The measured drain efficiencies of the DBPA are 75.4% and 68.6% at 1.72 and 3.48 GHz, respectively. Meanwhile, when the DBPA is stimulated by a 20 MHz LTE signal with a peak to average power ratio (PAPR) of 7 dB, the measured adjacent channel leakage ratios are lower than −50 dBc at both 1.72 and 3.48 GHz after digital predistortion.
The roles and perspectives of an informatics pharmacist practicing in the Australian healthcare setting: a qualitative study
Authors: Ismail Nur Fazlini , Snoswell Centaine , Banks Vivien , Falconer Nazanin
Published: April 2023

Background

The implementation of digital healthcare systems in hospitals globally and in Australia has led to the introduction of the informatics pharmacist as a career in the healthcare system. However, informatics pharmacists are not yet part of routine clinical services in Australia, so their perspective and roles are not well understood.

Aim

To explore pharmacists' and other health professionals' perspectives of the roles of informatics pharmacists within interprofessional teams in Australian health care.

Method

This study used semi‐structured interviews with experts in pharmacy and/or informatics. They were recruited using convenience sampling and snowballing. The interviews were audio‐recorded and transcribed and analysed using inductive thematic techniques to identify major themes. Ethical approval was received from the local institutional Human Research Ethics Committee (Approval No: 2020000069).

Results

The process of inductive thematic analysis was used to analyse the interview transcriptions of 11 participants. Six themes were identified: (1) a promising future for the informatics pharmacists, (2) education, (3) specific skills, (4) scope of informatics role, (5) impacts, and (6) barriers. Participants described the career of informatics pharmacists as an emerging specialty in today's healthcare systems. The roles of informatics pharmacists in Australian health care are described together with the skills and knowledge required for these roles.

Conclusion

A key role of informatics pharmacists is to facilitate the appropriate use of digital systems to prevent medication errors and improve patients' safety. While international experience has shown the potential scope for an informatics pharmacist, this research shows the use of informatics pharmacists in Australia is in its infancy.
Developing a unit dose approach to managing oral opioid liquids in an Australian hospital
Authors: Bint Lewis , Rawlins Matthew , Lawrence Ashleigh , Tam Ken , Jenkins Barry
Published: April 2023

Background

Liquid opioids (controlled drugs) in multidose bottles (MDBs) are associated with measurement losses, overfill variance, gradual contamination, and potential theft. Western Australian state poisons regulations and policies require rigorous accountability and previous reports have highlighted shortcomings in historical arrangements.

Aim

To describe the process and outcomes of a transition to unit dose pod (UDP) formulations for oral liquid opioids at our institution.

Method

A UDP of oral oxycodone liquid was developed in partnership with a third‐party compounder and piloted on a paediatric ward. Additional UDP opioid formulations were developed and gradually replaced MDBs across our institution. Reportable discrepancies and staff satisfaction were compared between MDBs and UDPs. This project was registered as a quality improvement project (GEKO 27758) and considered exempt from human research and ethics approval by the South Metropolitan Health Service Human Research Ethics Committee.

Results

Between May 2017 and May 2018, 3062 UDPs were distributed with nil discrepancies, and 133 MDBs were distributed with 16 discrepancies (0% vs 12%). Most staff (92%) reported more efficient inventory counts and improved confidence in product integrity for UDPs. Staff administrative overhead required to manage reportable discrepancies from volume errors was essentially eliminated. Five UDP opioid formulations were implemented in 27 inpatient wards including methadone‐maintenance UDPs for inpatient use. By late 2020, UDPs were in use across 19 hospitals in Western Australia (WA), with annual use exceeding 33 000 units.

Conclusion

The UDP simplifies the management of controlled drug liquids by eliminating discrepancies associated with MDBs inventory management and increasing staff confidence in product quality, leading to significant uptake across WA.
A novel antioxidant protein of non‐phycobiliprotein family derived from marine red alga Porphyra haitanensis
Authors: Chuang Pan , Tao Fengting , Qi Bo , Xiang Huan , Chen Shengjun , Yang Xianqing
Published: April 2023

BACKGROUND

Oxidation has been reported as the one of the deterioration reactions of proteins in aquatic products. Searching for new bioactive substances from marine algae has been one of the main areas in food science and additives.

RESULTS

In this study, a novel protein from the red alga Porphyra haitanensis was determined after ammonium sulfate precipitation and gel filtration chromatography. It closely corresponded to the antioxidant activity and was identified as an uncharacterized protein with a molecular mass of 43 kDa, designated Ph43. Bioinformatic analysis revealed that Ph43 is a novel protein of non‐phycobiliprotein family with putative chordin domains and rich in α‐helical conformation. Recombinant protein (rPh43) was expressed in Escherichia coli as a Hig‐tagged protein using a pET‐22b vector system and purified by affinity high‐performance liquid chromatography. Spectroscopy analysis revealed that there were no structural differences between rPh43 and natural recovered Ph43. Moreover, rPh43 showed equal/higher antioxidant activity compared with Ph43. rPh43 has the potential for application as a natural antioxidant for food stabilization.

CONCLUSION

Our results identified a novel antioxidant protein with molecular mass of 43 kDa derived from Porphyra haitanensis that belongs to the non‐phycobiliprotein family. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Vinegar production via spontaneous fermentation of different prickly pear fruit matrices: changes in chemical composition and biological activities
Authors: Hammouda Mouna Ben , Castro Remedios , Durán‐Guerrero Enrique , Attia Hamadi , Azabou Samia
Published: April 2023

BACKGROUND

This study focused on the valorization of prickly pear (PP) fruit (Opuntia ficus‐indica) into vinegar by spontaneous surface fermentation on different starting matrices (with/without the addition of sucrose and with/without PP peel in the raw material). Different parameters were monitored during the fermentation process in terms of their physicochemical and biological properties.

RESULTS

Physicochemical and phytochemical analysis revealed significant differences depending on the starting matrix. An increase in total phenolic content (TPC) was observed for the majority of samples when transformed from PP juice into PP vinegar revealing the role of fermentation in enhancing the bioactive compounds content. Better antioxidant and antibacterial activity were detected for vinegar samples compared with the initial starting matrix. Using whole PP fruit resulted in better TPC and antioxidant activity; in contrast, sugar addition had no significant effect on any studied data. Analysis of variance, taking into account the four factors that were studied (matrix, variety, with/without peel, and with/without sugar), demonstrated that only the factor ‘presence or absence of the peel’ had a significant influence on the TPC values.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrated that both whole PP fruit and PP juice could be used as new raw materials for vinegar production. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Relating weather radar data to migrating waterfowl abundance in the Rainwater Basin of Nebraska
Authors: Liu Boyan , Kemink Kaylan , Sieges Mason , Smolinsky Jaclyn , Varner Dana , Buler Jeffrey
Published: April 2023

Waterfowl migrations are large‐scale events that involve millions of birds moving over broad geographic extents, which make them difficult to quantify and study. Historically, wildlife managers have relied mostly on field surveys, such as visual counts from the ground or air that sample at small spatial or temporal extents, or both. Combining field surveys with remote sensing data comprehensively collected over large spatial extents at high temporal frequency may improve the study of migrating waterfowl distributions. We tested the strength of the relationship between broad‐scale weather surveillance radar data and fine‐scale field surveys of waterfowl abundance at wetlands within the Rainwater Basin of Nebraska, USA, from 2017–2019. Radar reflectivity of waterfowl at the peak exodus of evening flights was positively correlated with diurnal waterfowl count data, although there was unexplained variation in the relationship. The association was also very similar across various time scales ranging from daily to monthly averages of waterfowl abundance. We suggest that human‐based ground surveys can calibrate and leverage more comprehensive remote sensing data to get a broad understanding of waterfowl distributions during migration. Several confounding factors, such as spatial displacement between radar and survey observation, individual variation in orientation and body size, and identification of avian species sampled by radar, remain on the path to improving radar‐based waterfowl estimates.
Endoscopic CO2 Laser Resection Using the Inversion Technique in 22 Combined Laryngoceles
Authors: Heuveling Derrek A. , Mahieu Hans F.
Published: April 2023

Objective

To demonstrate the feasibility of transoral resection of, even large, combined laryngoceles by endoscopic CO2 laser resection using the inversion technique.

Methods

A retrospective study over a 25‐year period of 20 patients with 22 combined laryngoceles. All patients were operated on using the CO2 laser inversion technique. Pre‐ and postoperative computed tomography (CT)‐scans or magnetic resonance (MR) imaging were available in all patients.

Results

There were no surgical problems during all procedures. One patient required a tracheotomy pre‐operatively due to a compromised airway. All procedures were without intraoperative complications. Postoperatively, there were two complications: one hemorrhage, and one patient developed a granuloma with airway compromise. In two patients, residual disease was detected on postoperative imaging. One of them was re‐operated several years later due to the progression of this residual external component of the laryngocele. One patient had a non‐significant small internal laryngocele recurrence. The recurrence rate in this series was 2/22 (9.1%). The majority of patients (15/20) could be discharged from the hospital the day after surgery.

Conclusion

The results of this study show excellent control of combined laryngoceles using the CO2 laser inversion technique, with a short hospital stay and a low rate of complications and recurrence. Even in large combined laryngoceles, CO2 laser excision using the inversion technique should be considered.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 133:2742–2746, 2023
Single‐Ion Gel Polymer Electrolyte based on In‐Situ UV Irradiation Cross‐Linked Polyimide Complexed with PEO for Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Wang Pinhui , Wang Liying , Liang Xiaoxiao , You Yingxue , Li Zhangnan , Liu Yuhan , Liu Baijun , Sun Zhaoyan , Hu Wei
Published: April 2023

Lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) have become the research focus of energy storage products. Due to the combination of Li+ and the Lewis basic sites of polymer chains, anions move more than five times faster, which do not participate in the electrode reaction during the discharge cycles, leading to concentration polarization, voltage losses, and high internal resistance. To solve this phenomenon, in this work, a polymer network structure of single‐ion polymer electrolyte‐based polyimide (DPI‐SIGPE) with plasticizer ethylene carbonate (EC)/dimethyl carbonate (DMC) is formed by in‐situ cross‐linking double bond polyimide, 4‐styrene sulfonyl (benzenesulfonyl) imide, and cross‐linking agent pentaerythritol tetra(2‐thiol acetate) under UV irradiation. By incorporating the anion as a part of the polymer chain, DPI‐SIGPE exhibits high lithium‐ion conductivity of 2.7 × 10−4 S cm−1 at 30 °C and transference number of 0.87. Typical lithium stripping/plating cycling of 900 h demonstrates uniform lithium deposition impacted by DPI‐SIGPE. Meanwhile, it has good dimensional thermal stability with no obvious shrinkage at 200 °C for 0.5 h and wide electrochemical window of 4.6 V. Thus, the polyimide‐based cross‐linked single‐ion gel polymer electrolyte has the promising potential for application in LIBs.
Lymphaticovenous anastomosis for treatment of refractory chylous ascites: A case report
Authors: Tsuzaka Shoichi , Aiyama Takeshi , Kamachi Hirofumi , Kakisaka Tatsuhiko , Orimo Tatsuya , Nagatsu Akihisa , Asahi Yoh , Maeda Taku , Kamiyama Toshiya , Taketomi Akinobu
Published: April 2023

Chylous ascites, the leakage of lymphatic fluid into the abdominal cavity caused by lymphatic fluid stasis or lymphatic vessel damage, can be treated by lymphaticovenous anastomosis (LVA). We report rarely performed abdominal LVA to treat a case of refractory ascites possibly caused by ligation of the thoracic duct and pleurodesis in a man aged 60 years requiring weekly ascites drainage. Ligation was abandoned because the leakage site was not determined. The greater omentum (GO) was generally edematous and showed lymphatic effusion by gross appearance, and was considered suitable for LVA. We performed once LVA in the lymphatic vessels and veins of the GO using common microsurgical instrumentation and lateral anastomosis. Lymphatic vessels in the omentum were dilated to 2–3 mm, and LVA was simple. After LVA, GO edema improved. Postoperatively, the patient developed paralytic ileus, which improved within a few days, and the patient was discharged without any increase in ascites after starting to diet. One year post‐surgery, there was no recurrence of ascites. LVA at the GO may be effective for the treatment of refractory chylous ascites because of its absorptive lymphatic draining capabilities and large transverse vessels.
Peripheral thyroid hormone deiodination: Entry points to elucidate mechanisms of metabolic adaptation during weight regain
Authors: Dulloo Abdul G.
Published: April 2023

The concept of dual‐adaptive thermogenesis underlying metabolic adaptation to prolonged energy deficit posits that there are two control systems that govern energy sparing: a rapid‐reacting system to energy deficit and a slow‐reacting system to fat store depletion. The latter control system, referred to as the “adipose‐specific” control of thermogenesis, contributes to accelerating fat store replenishment (catch‐up fat) during weight regain. The case is put forward here that, whereas adaptive thermogenesis during weight loss results primarily from central suppression of the sympathetic nervous system and hypothalamic–pituitary–thyroid axis, during weight regain it operates primarily through peripheral tissue resistance to the actions of this neurohormonal network. Emerging evidence that altered deiodination of thyroid hormones within the skeletal muscle and liver is a key determinant of such peripheral resistance therefore offers entry points toward elucidating the molecular mechanisms that underlie the adipose‐specific control of thermogenesis and unraveling tissue‐specific targets to counter obesity recidivism.
Driving citizen engagement through Twitter: The case ofCOVID‐19 vaccination drive in India
Authors: Annamalai Balamurugan , Chandrasekaran Shabana , Pathak Atul Arun
Published: April 2023

Effective crisis communication is essential to efficiently handle the uncertainty and anxiousness of citizens during the COVID‐19 crisis. Government Twitter handles are an excellent platform for faster information dissemination and engaging citizens. While most government ministries actively use Twitter, limited attention is given to its modus operandi. Using data retrieved from the official Twitter handle of 'The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare' (MOHFW) of India, the current study examines the effect of the content characteristics, including content type and media type, on citizen engagement measured as tweet likes and retweets. The findings are based on 3742 tweets from MOHFW, recording more than 4.06 million likes and 1.23 million retweets over the initial six months of the largest COVID‐19 vaccination drive. Results show that content‐sharing guidance for stakeholders gained the maximum engagement, while the latest news about the COVID‐19 crisis resulted in the least engagement. Photos gained maximum engagement, while statuses resulted in the least engagement. The results illuminate the textual features of the government's Twitter communication and will enable policymakers to manage their social media content strategy diligently.
Preparation of carbon black/graphene nanosheets/PP composites with 3D separated conductive networks based on selective laser sintering
Authors: Shen Hui , Wu Wei , Hu Huanbo , Rui Zhengguo , Ye Junjian , Zhang Cheng
Published: April 2023

The main research goal of high‐performance conductive polymer composites is to improve electrical conductivity and reduce the percolation threshold. Designing an effective conductive network is one of the fundamental ways to improve the conductivity. In this study, polypropylene composite powders coated with carbon black (CB) and graphene nanosheets (GNSs) were prepared by a combination of ultrasonic dispersion and liquid‐phase deposition, and sintered using a selective laser sintering process to prepare polypropylene composites with three‐dimensional separated conductive networks. The synergistic effect of binary compound fillers of CB and GNSs was utilized to further improve the electrical conductivity of the composites. When the filler loading was 2% and the ratio of CB to graphene was 7:3, the electrical conductivity of the polypropylene composite was 1.315 × 10−3 S/m, which was eight orders of magnitude higher than that of pure polypropylene. In addition, the tensile strength and elongation at break of CB/GNSs/PP composites were improved by 36.4% and 20.77% with excellent mechanical properties. The effects of fillers on the SLS process, thermal stability, melting, and crystallization behavior of the composites were investigated. This study provides an effective and feasible strategy for the preparation of high‐performance conductive polymer composites using SLS 3D printing process.
Moving toward sustainable development: Social, economic and environmental value as antecedents of purchase intention in the sustainable crafts sector
Authors: Prados‐Peña María Belén , Gálvez‐Sánchez Francisco Jesús , García‐López Ana
Published: April 2023

Sustainable development has become a prevailing strategy for today's society, increasingly aware of the new challenges we face. This is causing consumers to demand and adopt more sustainable purchasing behaviors, based on the perception of different values. This article examines the relationship between social value, economic value, and environmental value with perceived quality and perceived value as antecedents of purchase intent in the sustainable crafts sector. The data were collected through an online survey. The model has been analyzed using a SEM model with Smart‐PLS. The results show that economic and environmental values positively influence attitude and perceived quality. However, social value only positively influences attitude. Both attitude and perceived quality have a positive effect on the purchase intention of sustainable artisanal products. In the final section, we discuss in detail the theoretical and practitioner implications of the findings obtained.
Neubau der Büchler Brücke in Luxemburg
Authors: Gesella Heiko , Eicher Charel , Duvoisin Eric
Published: April 2023

Das Verkehrsinfrastrukturprojekt Neue Nationalstraße N3 übergreift mehrere Stadtteile der Landeshauptstadt Luxemburg und beinhaltet den in diesem Zuge notwendig gewordenen Ersatzneubau der Büchler Brücke, welche alle zwölf südlich des Hauptbahnhofs abgehenden Eisenbahngleise unterführt. Der neue Brückenentwurf wird von einem deutlich verbreiterten Verkehrsquerschnitt geprägt, der neben breiteren Geh‐ und Radwegen insgesamt sechs Spuren für Straßenverkehr und eine neue zweigleisige Straßenbahntrasse führt. Der Verkehr wird von einem ungeteilten Trägerrost getragen, dessen drei Hauptträger in Form von Stahlsegeln über den schiefen Zwischenstützen die Fahrbahnplatte durchstoßen. Der Entwurf der neuen Brücke wird von der kleinen möglichen Bauhöhe unterhalb der Fahrbahnebene geprägt, welche sich aus dem unverändertem Längsprofil der N3 im Bauwerksbereich und der um 0,85 m vergrößerten lichten Höhe für Eisenbahnverkehr unter der Brücke ergab. Vorliegend wird von der diesbezüglichen Planung und der anspruchsvollen Bauausführung an gleicher Stelle unter vollem Verkehr berichtet.
Multi‐objective optimization and assessment of recycled concrete aggregates for sustainable development: Example of the Kömürhan bridge
Authors: Ulucan Muhammed , Tas Yavuzhan , Alyamac Kursat Esat
Published: April 2023

The main purpose of this study is to examine the advantages and disadvantages of the Kömürhan bridge, built with natural aggregate concrete in Elazig, in terms of mechanical, environmental, and economic properties if certain ratios of recycled concrete aggregate (RCA) were used. For this purpose, a detailed laboratory study was designed, and concrete samples were produced, all‐natural, all‐recycled, and both recycled and containing natural aggregates. Different water‐to‐cement, aggregate‐to‐cement, and recycled concrete aggregate‐to‐total aggregate ratios were considered for the mixture designs of these samples, and the fresh and hardened concrete properties of these samples were determined. Then, statistical analyses were made using the response surface method, and numerical models were developed to predict the fresh and hardened concrete properties with high accuracy. Mixtures containing RCA, which have the same fresh and hardened concrete properties as the fresh and hardened concrete properties of the Kömürhan bridge, which was selected as an example structure by using these models, were determined for optimization purposes. A detailed environmental and economic comparison of the optimization and reference mixtures was made. While making environmental assessments, energy consumption, global warming potential, waste generation, and abiotic depletion were considered. It was seen that the optimization mixtures were more economical and more environmentally friendly than the reference mixture. As a result of this study, it was predicted that the use of RCA in buildings constructed using large amounts of concrete could provide significant environmental and economic advantages and was exemplified by the Kömürhan bridge.
Equivalence between C5F10O Addition and PTFE Vapor Contamination in the Particle Composition and Critical Electric Field Strength of High‐Temperature CO2/O2 Gas Mixture
Authors: Tsusaka Akihiro , Kurahashi Jun , Yokoi Toshiya , Matsumura Toshiro , Nanahara Toshiya , Yukita Kazuto , Goto Yasuyuki , Yokomizu Yasunobu
Published: April 2023

SF6 has been introduced as an insulating and extinguishing gas in gas circuit breakers. However, its global warming potential is significantly high at approximately 25 200. Therefore, development of alternative gases is essential. We have been investigating the dielectric breakdown characteristics of high temperature CO2 gas contaminated by various gases. This study discusses the equivalent condition between high temperature CO2/O2/C5F10O gas mixture and CO2/O2 gas mixture contaminated with PTFE (C2F4) vapor because both gas mixtures consist of C, O, and F atoms. It is concluded that when the mole fractions of every atom are equivalent between both gas mixtures, both gas mixtures have the same characteristics as each other, such as the particle composition and critical electric field strength. © 2023 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.
On holographic time-like entanglement entropy
Authors: Li Ze , Xiao Zi-Qing , Yang Run-Qiu
Published: April 2023

Abstract

In order to study the pseudo entropy of timelike subregions holographically, the previous smooth space-like extremal surface was recently generalized to mix space-like and time-like segments and the area becomes complex value. This paper finds that, if one tries to use such kind of piecewise smooth extremal surfaces to compute timelike entanglement entropy holographically, the complex area is not unique in general. We then generalize the original holographic proposal of spacelike entanglement entropy to pick up a unique area from all allowed “space-like+time-like” piecewise smooth extremal surfaces for a timelike subregion. We give some concrete examples to show the correctness of our proposal.
Measuring the susceptibility to visually induced motion sickness and its relationship with vertigo, dizziness, migraine, syncope and personality traits
Authors: Lukacova Ivana , Keshavarz Behrang , Golding John F.
Published: April 2023

The widespread use of visual technologies such as Virtual Reality increases the risk of visually induced motion sickness (VIMS). Previously, the 6-item short version of the Visually Induced Motion Sickness Susceptibility Questionnaire (VIMSSQ short form) has been validated for predicting individual variation in VIMS. The aim of the current study was to investigate how the susceptibility to VIMS is correlated with other relevant factors in the general population. A total of 440 participants (201 M, 239F), mean age 33.6 (SD 14.8) years, completed an anonymous online survey of various questionnaires including the VIMSSQ, Motion Sickness Susceptibility Questionnaire (MSSQ), Vertigo in City questionnaire (VIC), Migraine (scale), Social & Work Impact of Dizziness (SWID), Syncope (faintness), and Personality (‘Big Five’ TIPI). The VIMSSQ correlated positively with the MSSQ (r = 0.50), VIC (r = 0.45), Migraine (r = 0.44), SWID (r = 0.28), and Syncope (r = 0.15). The most efficient Multiple Linear Regression model for the VIMSSQ included the predictors MSSQ, Migraine, VIC, and Age and explained 40% of the variance. Factor analysis of strongest correlates with VIMSSQ revealed a single factor loading with VIMSSQ, MSSQ, VIC, Migraine, SWID, and Syncope, suggesting a common latent variable of sensitivity. The set of predictors for the VIMSSQ in the general population has similarity with those often observed in patients with vestibular disorders. Based on these correlational results, we suggest the existence of continuum of underlying risk factors for sensitivity, from healthy population to patients with extreme visual vertigo and perhaps Persistent Postural-Perceptual Dizziness.
First-in-human study of oleclumab, a potent, selective anti-CD73 monoclonal antibody, alone or in combination with durvalumab in patients with advanced solid tumors
Authors: Bendell Johanna , LoRusso Patricia , Overman Michael , Noonan Anne M. , Kim Dong-Wan , Strickler John H. , Kim Sang-We , Clarke Stephen , George Thomas J. , Grimison Peter S. , Barve Minal , Amin Manik , Desai Jayesh , Wise-Draper Trisha , Eck Steven , Jiang Yu , Khan Anis A. , Wu Yuling , Martin Philip , Cooper Zachary A. , Elgeioushi Nairouz , Mueller Nancy , Kumar Rakesh , Patel Sandip Pravin
Published: April 2023

Background

CD73 upregulation in tumors leads to local immunosuppression. This phase I, first-in-human study evaluated oleclumab (MEDI9447), an anti-CD73 human IgG1λ monoclonal antibody, alone or with durvalumab in patients with advanced colorectal cancer (CRC), pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC), or epidermal growth factor receptor-mutant non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

Methods

Patients received oleclumab 5–40 mg/kg (dose-escalation) or 40 mg/kg (dose-expansion) intravenously every 2 weeks (Q2W), alone (escalation only) or with durvalumab 10 mg/kg intravenously Q2W.

Results

192 patients were enrolled, 66 during escalation and 126 (42 CRC, 42 PDAC, 42 NSCLC) during expansion. No dose-limiting toxicities occurred during escalation. In the monotherapy and combination therapy escalation cohorts, treatment-related adverse events (TRAEs) occurred in 55 and 54%, respectively, the most common being fatigue (17 and 25%). In the CRC, PDAC, and NSCLC expansion cohorts, 60, 57, and 45% of patients had TRAEs, respectively; the most common were fatigue (15%), diarrhea (9%), and rash (7%). Free soluble CD73 and CD73 expression on peripheral T cells and tumor cells showed sustained decreases, accompanied by reduced CD73 enzymatic activity in tumor cells. Objective response rate during escalation was 0%. Response rates in the CRC, PDAC, and NSCLC expansion cohorts were 2.4% (1 complete response [CR]), 4.8% (1 CR, 1 partial response [PR]), and 9.5% (4 PRs), respectively; 6-month progression-free survival rates were 5.4, 13.2, and 16.0%.

Conclusions

Oleclumab ± durvalumab had a manageable safety profile, with pharmacodynamic activity reflecting oleclumab’s mechanism of action. Evidence of antitumor activity was observed in tumor types that are generally immunotherapy resistant.

Clinical trial registration

Clinicaltrials.gov, NCT02503774; date of registration, July 17, 2015.
Factors impacting the efficacy of the in-situ vaccine with CpG and OX40 agonist
Authors: Pieper Alexander A. , Spiegelman Dan V. , Felder Mildred A. R. , Feils Arika S. , Tsarovsky Noah W. , Zaborek Jen , Morris Zachary S. , Erbe Amy K. , Rakhmilevich Alexander L. , Sondel Paul M.
Published: April 2023

Background

The in-situ vaccine using CpG oligodeoxynucleotide combined with OX40 agonist antibody (CpG + OX40) has been shown to be an effective therapy activating an anti-tumor T cell response in certain settings. The roles of tumor volume, tumor model, and the addition of checkpoint blockade in the efficacy of CpG + OX40 in-situ vaccination remains unknown.

Methods

Mice bearing flank tumors (B78 melanoma or A20 lymphoma) were treated with combinations of CpG, OX40, and anti-CTLA-4. Tumor growth and survival were monitored. In vivo T cell depletion, tumor cell phenotype, and tumor infiltrating lymphocyte (TIL) studies were performed. Tumor cell sensitivity to CpG and macrophages were evaluated in vitro.

Results

As tumor volumes increased in the B78 (one-tumor) and A20 (one-tumor or two-tumor) models, the anti-tumor efficacy of the in-situ vaccine decreased. In vitro, CpG had a direct effect on A20 proliferation and phenotype and an indirect effect on B78 proliferation via macrophage activation. As A20 tumors progressed in vivo, tumor cell phenotype changed, and T cells became more involved in the local CpG + OX40 mediated anti-tumor response. In mice with larger tumors that were poorly responsive to CpG + OX40, the addition of anti-CTLA-4 enhanced the anti-tumor efficacy in the A20 but not B78 models.

Conclusions

Increased tumor volume negatively impacts the anti-tumor capability of CpG + OX40 in-situ vaccine. The addition of checkpoint blockade augmented the efficacy of CpG + OX40 in the A20 but not B78 model. These results highlight the importance of considering multiple preclinical model conditions when assessing the efficacy of cancer immunotherapy regimens and their translation to clinical testing.
Parallel motion vision pathways in the brain of a tropical bee
Authors: Honkanen Anna , Hensgen Ronja , Kannan Kavitha , Adden Andrea , Warrant Eric , Wcislo William , Heinze Stanley
Published: April 2023

Spatial orientation is a prerequisite for most behaviors. In insects, the underlying neural computations take place in the central complex (CX), the brain’s navigational center. In this region different streams of sensory information converge to enable context-dependent navigational decisions. Accordingly, a variety of CX input neurons deliver information about different navigation-relevant cues. In bees, direction encoding polarized light signals converge with translational optic flow signals that are suited to encode the flight speed of the animals. The continuous integration of speed and directions in the CX can be used to generate a vector memory of the bee’s current position in space in relation to its nest, i.e., perform path integration. This process depends on specific, complex features of the optic flow encoding CX input neurons, but it is unknown how this information is derived from the visual periphery. Here, we thus aimed at gaining insight into how simple motion signals are reshaped upstream of the speed encoding CX input neurons to generate their complex features. Using electrophysiology and anatomical analyses of the halictic bees Megalopta genalis and Megalopta centralis, we identified a wide range of motion-sensitive neurons connecting the optic lobes with the central brain. While most neurons formed pathways with characteristics incompatible with CX speed neurons, we showed that one group of lobula projection neurons possess some physiological and anatomical features required to generate the visual responses of CX optic-flow encoding neurons. However, as these neurons cannot explain all features of CX speed cells, local interneurons of the central brain or alternative input cells from the optic lobe are additionally required to construct inputs with sufficient complexity to deliver speed signals suited for path integration in bees.