bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
AMP‐activated protein kinase as a mediator of mitochondrial dysfunction of multiple sclerosis in animal models: A systematic review
Authors: Askari Hamid , Rabiei Fatemeh , Lohrasbi Fatemeh , Ghadir Sara , Mehdipour Arbastan Ahmad , Ghasemi‐Kasman Maryam
Published: February 2024

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic central nervous system (CNS) disorder characterized by demyelination, neuronal damage, and oligodendrocyte depletion. Reliable biomarkers are essential for early diagnosis and disease management. Emerging research highlights the role of mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress in CNS disorders, including MS, in which mitochondria are central to the degenerative process. Adenosine monophosphate‐activated protein kinase (AMPK) regulates the mitochondrial energy balance and initiates responses in neurodegenerative conditions. This systematic review, following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses guidelines, aimed to comprehensively assess the literature on AMPK pathways, mitochondrial dysfunction, and in vivo studies using MS animal models. The search strategy involved the use of AMPK syntaxes, MS syntaxes, and animal model syntaxes. The PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar databases were systematically searched on August 26, 2023 without publication year restrictions. The review identified and analyzed relevant papers to provide a comprehensive overview of the current state of related research. Eight studies utilizing various interventions and methodological approaches were included. Risk of bias assessment revealed some areas of low risk but lacked explicit reporting in others. These studies collectively revealed a complex relationship between AMPK, mitochondrial dysfunction, and MS pathogenesis, with both cuprizone and experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis models demonstrating associations between AMPK and mitochondrial disorders, including oxidative stress and impaired expression of mitochondrial genes. These studies illuminate the multifaceted role of AMPK in MS animal models, involving energy metabolism, inflammatory processes, oxidative stress, and gene regulation leading to mitochondrial dysfunction. However, unanswered questions about its mechanisms and clinical applications underscore the need for further research to fully harness its potential in addressing MS‐related mitochondrial dysfunction.
A comparative study on the antennae morphology and ultrastructure of three mud crab species of the genus Scylla from Setiu Wetlands, Terengganu, Malaysia
Authors: Achdiat Muhammad , Tan Kian Ann , Fujaya Yushinta , Wang Youji , Martin Melissa Beata , Shu‐Chien Alexander Chong , Fazhan Hanafiah , Waiho Khor
Published: February 2024

Crustaceans possess a range of sensory organs crucial in sensory perception, communication, and various ecological functions. Understanding morphological and functional differences in antennae among species could validate taxonomic differentiation and ecological adaptations. The antennae morphology and ultrastructure of mud crab species within the Scylla genus are poorly understood, and their role in ecological adaptation and species differentiation remains unexplored. This study aimed to describe and compare the morphology and ultrastructure of antennae in Scylla olivacea, Scylla tranquebarica, and Scylla paramamosain. Antennae were carefully excised from each crab and subjected to morphological, morphometric, and ultrastructural analysis. The study revealed that the antennae of Scylla species exhibit similar overall morphology, with a series of segments that tapered toward the upper end. All species possess non‐branched single setae on the upper end of each segment. The number of antennae segments varied between species, with S. paramamosain having significantly more segments than S. olivacea. Additionally, the length and width of antenna segments differed among the species, with S. tranquebarica having a rougher antenna surface compared to S. olivacea and S. paramamosain. Our findings suggest that Scylla's antennae are distinct between species, especially in the number of segments and setae size. Such difference might be related to ecological adaptation. The role of antennae in sensory perception and social behavioral cues in mud crabs warrants further investigation. This study serves as a foundational reference for future research on the taxonomy, ecological adaptation, and sensory behaviors in the Scylla genus.

Research Highlights

Variations and similarities in morphology and ultrastructure of three Scylla species can be found in the antennae.

Scylla paramamosain had significantly higher number of segments than Scylla olivacea in morphology feature.

The antennae surface of Scylla tranquebarica was rougher than that of S. olivacea and S. paramamosain.

Antennae of three Scylla species possess non‐branched single setae.
Variants of a major DNA satellite discriminate parental subgenomes in a hybrid parthenogenetic lizard Darevskia unisexualis (Darevsky, 1966)
Authors: Nikitin Pavel , Sidorov Sviatoslav , Liehr Thomas , Klimina Ksenia , Al‐Rikabi Ahmed , Korchagin Vitaly , Kolomiets Oxana , Arakelyan Marine , Spangenberg Victor
Published: February 2024

Hybrid parthenogenetic animals are an exceptionally interesting model for studying the mechanisms and evolution of sexual and asexual reproduction. A diploid parthenogenetic lizard Darevskia unisexualis is a result of an ancestral cross between a maternal species Darevskia raddei nairensis and a paternal species Darevskia valentini and presents a unique opportunity for a cytogenetic and computational analysis of a hybrid karyotype. Our previous results demonstrated a significant divergence between the pericentromeric DNA sequences of the parental Darevskia species; however, an in‐depth comparative study of their pericentromeres is still lacking. Here, using target sequencing of microdissected pericentromeric regions, we reveal and compare the repertoires of the pericentromeric tandem repeats of the parental Darevskia lizards. We found species‐specific sequences of the major pericentromeric tandem repeat CLsat, which allowed computational prediction and experimental validation of fluorescent DNA probes discriminating parental chromosomes within the hybrid karyotype of D. unisexualis. Moreover, we have implemented a generalizable computational method, based on the optimization of the Levenshtein distance between tandem repeat monomers, for finding species‐specific fluorescent probes for pericentromere staining. In total, we anticipate that our comparative analysis of Darevskia pericentromeric repeats, the species‐specific fluorescent probes that we found and the pipeline that we developed will form a basis for the future detailed cytogenomic studies of a wide range of natural and laboratory hybrids.
Comparing application methods of reishi mushroom (Ganoderma lucidum) extract in deep‐fried meatballs: impact on heterocyclic aromatic amine formation
Authors: Guzel Bengu , Gumus Damla , Kizil Mevlude
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND

The present research was conducted to investigate the impact of reishi mushroom extract (RME) on the formation of heterocyclic aromatic amines (HAAs) in meatballs. Sample preparations involved applying RME using either the spreading or addition method, with varying concentrations (0%, 0.25%, 0.5%, and 1% of RME), followed by deep‐frying at temperatures of 150 and 190 °C for 3 min.

RESULTS

The types and levels of HAAs varied based on the frying temperature, method of extract application, and the extract concentration. Notably, total HAA contents increased with rising the frying temperature (P < 0.01) and varied from undetectable levels to 4.91 ng g−1 across all analyzed meatballs. The addition method was more effective than the spreading method (P < 0.01), and among the concentrations tested 0.25% RME exhibited the highest efficacy in reducing total HAAs (P < 0.05). Furthermore, the addition method inhibited lipid oxidation more efficiently compared to the surface spreading method (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrated that RME had mitigating effects on HAAs depending on the concentration and frying conditions in deep‐fried meatball samples. © 2024 The Author(s). Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Race and Ethnicity Independently Predict Adverse Outcomes Following Head and Neck Autograft Surgery
Authors: Ferraro Tatiana , Ahmed Abdulla K. , Lee Esther , Lee Sean M. , Debbaneh Peter M. , Thakkar Punam , Joshi Arjun , Tummala Neelima
Published: February 2024

Objective

There is growing attention toward the implications of race and ethnicity on health disparities within otolaryngology. While race is an established predictor of adverse head and neck oncologic outcomes, there is paucity in the literature on studies employing national, multi‐institutional data to assess the impact of race and ethnicity on head and neck autograft surgery.

Methods

Using the National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) database, trends in 30 days outcomes were assessed. Patients with ICD‐10 codes for malignant head and neck neoplasms were isolated. Autograft surgeries were selected using Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) codes for free flap and pedicled flap reconstruction. Primary outcomes included surgical complications, reoperation, readmission, extended length of stay and operation time. Each binary categorical variable was compared to racial/ethnic identity via binary logistic regression.

Results

The study cohort consisted of 2447 patients who underwent head and neck autograft surgery (80.71% free flap reconstruction and 19.39% pedicled flap reconstruction). Black patients had significantly higher odds of overall surgical complications (odds ratio [OR] 1.583, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.091, 2.298, p = 0.016) with much higher odds of perioperative blood transfusions (OR 2.291, 95% CI 1.532, 3.426, p = <.001). Hispanic patients were more likely to undergo reoperation within 30 days after surgery and were more likely to be hospitalized for more than 30 days post‐operatively (OR 1.566, 95% CI 1.015, 2.418, p = 0.043 and OR 12.224, 95% CI 2.698, 55.377, p = 0.001, respectively).

Conclusions

Race and ethnicity serve as independent predictors of complications in the post‐operative period following head and neck autograft surgery.

Level of Evidence

3 Laryngoscope, 134:3595–3603, 2024
Temperature stress (cold and heat) strongly affect the phytotoxicity of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (phenanthrene) to wheat
Authors: Suszek‐Łopatka Beata , Maliszewska‐Kordybach Barbara , Klimkowicz‐Pawlas Agnieszka , Smreczak Bożena
Published: February 2024

Anthropogenic activity could create different threats leading to irreversible changes in the global environment and, as a consequence, posing varied stressful conditions acting together (combined stress) on organisms. Our research concerned the combined stress of two of the main threats to soil health and plant health: temperature stress and pollution. The aim of this research was the quantitative assessment of the impact of temperature stress on the phytotoxicity of PAHs (polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons; specifically, phenanthrene, which is a widespread, harmful organic contamination of soil) on the growth of wheat seedlings in relation to the level of soil contamination by phenanthrene (0–1000 mg kg−1 dry mass of soil) and the type of temperature stress: cold (10°C) and heat (35°C) stress, in three different soils. Earlier studies have investigated the effect of temperature stress on PAH toxicity mainly on soil invertebrates. However, the impact of temperature stress on PAH phytotoxicity towards crop plants, which are important for human food security but could be affected by chemical soil degradation, is still poorly understood. Our results indicated that the phenanthrene phytotoxicity was significantly enhanced by cold stress and heat stress. The effects of cold and heat temperature stress increased with increasing phenanthrene level. Our research is important for improving the risk assessment of PAH and food security forecasting.
Lotic‐SIPCO2: Adaptation of an open‐source CO2 sensor system and examination of associated emission uncertainties across a range of stream sizes and land uses
Authors: Robison Andrew L. , Koenig Lauren E. , Potter Jody D. , Snyder Lisle E. , Hunt Christopher W. , McDowell William H. , Wollheim Wilfred M.
Published: February 2024

River networks play a crucial role in the global carbon cycle, as relevant sources of carbon dioxide (CO2) to the atmosphere. Advancements in high‐frequency monitoring in aquatic environments have enabled measurement of dissolved CO2 concentration at temporal resolutions essential for studying carbon variability and evasion from these dynamic ecosystems. Here, we describe the adaptation, deployment, and validation of an open‐source and relatively low‐cost in situ pCO2 sensor system for lotic ecosystems, the lotic‐SIPCO2. We tested the lotic‐SIPCO2 in 10 streams that spanned a range of land cover and basin size. Key system adaptations for lotic environments included prevention of biofouling, configuration for variable stage height, and reduction of headspace equilibration time. We then examined which input parameters contribute the most to uncertainty in estimating CO2 emission rates and found scaling factors related to the gas exchange velocity were the most influential when CO2 concentration was significantly above saturation. Near saturation, sensor measurement of pCO2 contributed most to uncertainty in estimating CO2 emissions. We also found high‐frequency measurements of pCO2 were not necessary to accurately estimate median emission rates given the CO2 regimes of our streams, but daily to weekly sampling was sufficient. High‐frequency measurements of pCO2 remain valuable for exploring in‐stream metabolic variability, source partitioning, and storm event dynamics. Our adaptations to the SIPCO2 offer a relatively affordable and robust means of monitoring dissolved CO2 in lotic ecosystems. Our findings demonstrate priorities and related considerations in the design of monitoring projects of dissolved CO2 and CO2 evasion dynamics more broadly.
A novel gain‐of‐function STAT3 variant in infantile‐onset diabetes associated with multiorgan autoimmunity
Authors: Zhou Qiaoli , Chen Dandan , Yu Jing , Zheng Bixia , Zhou Wei , Jia Zhanjun , Zhang Aihua , Gu Wei
Published: February 2024

Background

Germline gain‐of‐function (GOF) variants in the signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) gene lead to a rare inherited disorder characterized by early‐onset multiorgan autoimmunity.

Methods

We described a Chinese patient with infantile‐onset diabetes and multiorgan autoimmunity. The patient presented with early‐onset type 1 diabetes and autoimmune hypothyroidism at 7 months. During the 7.5‐year follow‐up, she developed pseudo‐celiac enteropathy at 1 year of age and showed severe growth retardation. Whole‐exome sequencing was performed and the novel variant was further assessed by in vitro functional assays.

Results

Whole‐exome sequencing revealed a novel variant (c.1069G>A, p.Glu357Lys) in the DNA‐binding domain of STAT3. In vitro functional studies revealed that p.Glu357Lys was a GOF variant by increasing STAT3 transcriptional activity and phosphorylation. In addition, the STAT3 Glu357Lys variant caused dysregulation of insulin gene expression by enhancing transcriptional inhibition of the insulin gene enhancer binding protein factor 1 (ISL1).

Conclusion

In the current study, we describe clinical manifestations and identify a novel STAT3 GOF variant (c.1069G>A) in a Chinese patient. This activating variant impairs insulin expression by increasing transcriptional inhibition of its downstream transcription factor ISL1, which could be involved in the pathogenesis of early‐onset diabetes.
Deep‐learning‐based joint rigid and deformable contour propagation for magnetic resonance imaging‐guided prostate radiotherapy
Authors: Kolenbrander Iris D. , Maspero Matteo , Hendriksen Allard A. , Pollitt Ryan , van der Voort van Zyp Jochem R. N. , van den Berg Cornelis A. T. , Pluim Josien P. W. , van Eijnatten Maureen A. J. M.
Published: February 2024

Background

Deep learning‐based unsupervised image registration has recently been proposed, promising fast registration. However, it has yet to be adopted in the online adaptive magnetic resonance imaging‐guided radiotherapy (MRgRT) workflow.

Purpose

In this paper, we design an unsupervised, joint rigid, and deformable registration framework for contour propagation in MRgRT of prostate cancer.

Methods

Three‐dimensional pelvic T2‐weighted MRIs of 143 prostate cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy were collected and divided into 110, 13, and 20 patients for training, validation, and testing. We designed a framework using convolutional neural networks (CNNs) for rigid and deformable registration. We selected the deformable registration network architecture among U‐Net, MS‐D Net, and LapIRN and optimized the training strategy (end‐to‐end vs. sequential). The framework was compared against an iterative baseline registration. We evaluated registration accuracy (the Dice and Hausdorff distance of the prostate and bladder contours), structural similarity index, and folding percentage to compare the methods. We also evaluated the framework's robustness to rigid and elastic deformations and bias field perturbations.

Results

The end‐to‐end trained framework comprising LapIRN for the deformable component achieved the best median (interquartile range) prostate and bladder Dice of 0.89 (0.85–0.91) and 0.86 (0.80–0.91), respectively. This accuracy was comparable to the iterative baseline registration: prostate and bladder Dice of 0.91 (0.88–0.93) and 0.86 (0.80–0.92). The best models complete rigid and deformable registration in 0.002 (0.0005) and 0.74 (0.43) s (Nvidia Tesla V100‐PCIe 32 GB GPU), respectively. We found that the models are robust to translations up to 52 mm, rotations up to 15, elastic deformations up to 40 mm, and bias fields.

Conclusions

Our proposed unsupervised, deep learning‐based registration framework can perform rigid and deformable registration in less than a second with contour propagation accuracy comparable with iterative registration.
Rotator cuff disorders: An updated survey of current (2023) UK physiotherapy practice
Authors: Moffatt Maria , Lalande Stacey , Maher Natasha , Littlewood Chris
Published: February 2024

Background

Clinical guidelines recommend treatment by a physiotherapist for people with shoulder pain due to rotator cuff disorder. Despite this recommendation, research evidence supporting the effectiveness of treatment by a physiotherapist is uncertain. While developing a randomised controlled trial to test the effectiveness of treatment by a physiotherapist for people with shoulder pain due to rotator cuff disorders, we first aimed to understand current practice as a basis for defining usual care.

Methods

An online survey was developed based on a clinical vignette used in a previous survey exploring physiotherapy practice for people with shoulder pain due to rotator cuff disorder. UK‐based physiotherapists were invited to complete the survey via X and email across professional networks.

Results

One Hundred Seventy complete responses were received. 167 (98%) respondents would offer advice/education to patients with shoulder rotator cuff disorders; 146 (86%) would use isotonic exercise (including concentric/eccentric strengthening); 20 (12%) would offer a corticosteroid injection; 7 (4%) would use joint mobilisation. 168/169 (99%) would offer in‐person assessment; 115 (68%) expect to deliver treatment over three to four sessions. Fifty percent agreed there is uncertainty about the effectiveness of physiotherapy treatment for patients with shoulder rotator cuff disorders. Seventy six percent agreed that patients with this condition can recover without physiotherapy intervention.

Conclusions

Exercise and advice remain the most common treatments offered by physiotherapists for people with shoulder pain due to rotator cuff disorder. Corticosteroid injections are infrequently considered. Uncertainty about the effectiveness of treatment by a physiotherapist for shoulder pain due to rotator cuff disorder is evident.
CO2 as an engine for neurofluid flow: Exploring the coupling between vascular reactivity, brain clearance, and changes in tissue properties
Authors: van der Voort Elisabeth C. , Tong Yunjie , van Grinsven Eva E. , Zwanenburg Jaco J. M. , Philippens Marielle E. P. , Bhogal Alex A.
Published: February 2024

The brain relies on an effective clearance mechanism to remove metabolic waste products for the maintenance of homeostasis. Recent studies have focused on elucidating the forces that drive the motion of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), responsible for removal of these waste products. We demonstrate that vascular responses evoked using controlled manipulations of partial pressure of carbon dioxide (PaCO2) levels, serve as an endogenous driver of CSF clearance from the brain. To demonstrate this, we retrospectively surveyed our database, which consists of brain metastases patients from whom blood oxygen level‐dependent (BOLD) images were acquired during targeted hypercapnic and hyperoxic respiratory challenges. We observed a correlation between CSF inflow signal around the fourth ventricle and CO2‐induced changes in cerebral blood volume. By contrast, no inflow signal was observed in response to the nonvasoactive hyperoxic stimulus, validating our measurements. Moreover, our results establish a link between the rate of the hemodynamic response (to elevated PaCO2) and peritumoral edema load, which we suspect may affect CSF flow, consequently having implications for brain clearance. Our expanded perspective on the factors involved in neurofluid flow underscores the importance of considering both cerebrovascular responses, as well as the brain mechanical properties, when evaluating CSF dynamics in the context of disease processes.
Preparation of superhydrophobic membranes with ultraviolet‐absorbing capacity for oil–water separation by electrospinning
Authors: Wang Xiaohui , Li Xinmei
Published: February 2024

To address the escalating issue of oily wastewater, separation membranes with special wettability on the surface are widely used in oil–water separation. The development of separation membranes with not only stable separation flux but also anti‐fouling properties is an urgent problem. Therefore, polystyrene/polyacrylonitrile‐polyvinylidene fluoride/polydimethylsiloxane‐titanium dioxide nanoparticle (PS/PAN‐PVDF/PDMS@TiO2) composite membranes with superhydrophobicity and lipophilicity were prepared by electrospinning technique. By changing the doping amount of TiO2 nanoparticles, the multilevel rough structure was constructed on the surface, and the transformation of the Ti–O–C chemical bond to the Si–O–Ti chemical bond was realized inside the composite membrane. The results showed that the composite membrane had excellent superhydrophobicity (154.9°) and mechanical properties (tensile strength of 3.54 MPa, elongation of 60.95%). The membrane can absorb ultraviolet light and exhibits enhanced resistance to fouling when exposed to visible‐UV light. Additionally, the composite membrane demonstrates an adsorption capacity of 30–100 g/g for a wide range of oils. In corrosive environments, the composite membrane maintains superhydrophobicity (above 150°) and achieves high oil–water separation efficiency (97%). After 40 cycles, the separation flux of 6000 L.h−1 m−2 can be maintained. Hence, superhydrophobic oleophilic composite membranes with a stable separation flux and resistance to fouling can be employed in the field of oil–water separation.

Highlights

PS/PAN‐PVDF/PDMS@TiO2 composite membrane with multilevel rough structure.

PS/PAN‐PVDF/PDMS@TiO2 composite membrane with excellent UV absorption and self‐cleaning ability.

PS/PAN‐PVDF/PDMS@TiO2 composite membrane with stable oil–water separation efficiency in harsh environments.
Effect of functionality of diluents on digital light processing (DLP) based three‐dimensional (3D) printing of UV‐curable bisphenol A‐based epoxy acrylate resin
Authors: Rade Priyanka , Swami Shubhangi , Pawane Varsha , Hawaldar Ranjit , Giramkar Vijaya , Joseph Shany , Kale Bharat
Published: February 2024

Digital light processing (DLP) based three‐dimensional (3D) printing technology which uses photocurable resin has been a center of interest due to its printing accuracy and printing speed. In our research, we have synthesized and modified the bisphenol A‐based epoxy acrylate resin for the DLP 3D printer having a printing accuracy of 50 μm. As the viscosity plays an important role in printing accuracy, the resin was modified with mono‐functional, di‐functional, tri‐functional, and combination of di‐tri functional acrylate diluents as well as with photoinitiator to achieve the desired level of viscosity. The process parameters like curing time and intensity were optimized using the DLP 3D printer. The uncured and UV‐cured samples were characterized using FTIR‐ATR, 1HNMR, UV–VISIBLE, and TGA techniques. The analysis of the uncured and UV‐cured samples was carried out using viscosity, gel content, water absorption, and chemical resistance test. The mechanical properties of the UV‐cured samples were determined using hardness and tensile strength test. The 3D‐printed samples were observed under high‐resolution microscope to confirm the printing quality and resolution. The resulting outcome confirmed that the proper selection of diluents is an important parameter for achieving the good quality and resolution of samples printed using the DLP 3D printer technology.

Highlights

Synthesis and modification of UV‐curable resin

Selection of diluents for controlling the processablility of UV‐curable resin

Optimization of process parameters for DLP based 3D printer

3D printing of samples having good quality, resolution and feature size.
An investigation of the microstructure and tribological behavior of polyether ether ketone composites fabricated by extrusion‐based additive manufacturing
Authors: Lv Xiancheng , Yang Shuyan , Pei Xianqiang , Zhang Yaoming , Wang Qihua , Wang Tingmei
Published: February 2024

Carbon fiber reinforced polyether ether ketone (CF/PEEK) composites are widely used as tribo‐materials in the aerospace and automotive industry. To amplify the industrial utilization of extrusion‐based additive manufacturing fused deposition modeling in fabricating CF/PEEK tribo‐composites, the composites' microstructure–property relationship was studied with respect to carbon fiber content varying between 5 wt% and 30 wt%. This revealed that the incorporation of carbon fibers helped enhance the mechanical strength of PEEK greatly with an optimal content of 5 wt%, at which the composite material exhibited the highest crystallinity as well as the best mechanical performance. Tribological tests indicated that CF/PEEK composites were more suitable for high speed and heavy load conditions especially for 20 wt% CF/PEEK, which was associated with the establishment of high quality transfer films covered on counter steel surfaces. The present work provides a simple and low cost way of fabricating high performance PEEK composites used as tribo‐materials. © 2024 Society of Industrial Chemistry.
Exploring music students' resistance to innovation as a moderator in the relationship between e‐learning adoption and academic performance
Authors: Bai Xueer
Published: February 2024

A teaching strategy known as an “e‐learning system” involves the use of electronic technology to encourage and assist learning in a classroom setting. According to the increasing rise in the number of pupils using modern communication technologies, alterations to the e‐learning system are now feasible. The study aims to explore the relationship between e‐learning adoption, attitude, and academic performance in the regulations of students' resistance to innovation from the perspective of Chinese students. Recognizing the mediating impact of e‐learning adoption (ELAD) as well as the regulating function of resistance to innovation (RTI) is crucial for completely comprehending how e‐learning attitude (ELAT) influences music student performance (SP). The objective of this study is to find an association between ELAT and students' performance and to find out the association between ELAD and students' performance. A random sampling technique was utilized quantitatively. Data were collected from 293 music education students in China using a questionnaire method. The study obtained data were analyzed through descriptive statistics using SPSS statistical software. The research was conducted in Chinese music educational institutions in Beijing. PLS‐SEM stands for Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling. It's a statistical method used for analyzing relationships between variables. Partial Least Squares (PLS) software is chosen for its versatility in handling complex relationships with small sample sizes. PLS is known for its ability to handle multicollinearity, making it a robust choice for research requiring accurate and stable predictions with limited data. The study analyzes the connection between music student performance and e‐learning attitude. The findings of the study indicate the regulating role of objections to innovation and the mediation effect of e‐learning adoption. The study suggests that a positive attitude toward e‐learning adoption enhances students' work performance. The findings underline the significance of ELAT and ELAD and offer useful policies for improving students' performance.
Financial capability of people with low income: Results from the Canadian financial diaries
Authors: Buckland Jerry , Frimpong Jennifer , Nur Wendy , Simpson Wayne
Published: February 2024

Household income, assets, and socioeconomic context influence people's financial behavior and their financial literacy. This study uses a mixed methods financial diaries to understand the strengths and weaknesses of the finances of 28 Canadians with low income. Contrary to results from national surveys on financial literacy, we found that these low‐ and modest‐ to middle‐income participants were careful with their finances by doing things such as paying of one's credit card immediately, deliberately focusing on needs, and tracking one's finances. There were cases of decisions that seemed to harm the participants longer‐term financial wellbeing but, in many cases, barriers in banking, the labor market, and government support programs prevented a better choice.
Progress in the treatment of diabetic cardiomyopathy, a systematic review
Authors: Shou Yiyi , Li Xingyu , Fang Quan , Xie Aqiong , Zhang Yinghong , Fu Xinyan , Wang Mingwei , Gong Wenyan , Zhang Xingwei , Yang Dong
Published: February 2024

Diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a condition characterized by myocardial dysfunction that occurs in individuals with diabetes, in the absence of coronary artery disease, valve disease, and other conventional cardiovascular risk factors such as hypertension and dyslipidemia. It is considered a significant and consequential complication of diabetes in the field of cardiovascular medicine. The primary pathological manifestations include myocardial hypertrophy, myocardial fibrosis, and impaired ventricular function, which can lead to widespread myocardial necrosis. Ultimately, this can progress to the development of heart failure, arrhythmias, and cardiogenic shock, with severe cases even resulting in sudden cardiac death. Despite several decades of both fundamental and clinical research conducted globally, there are currently no specific targeted therapies available for DCM in clinical practice, and the incidence and mortality rates of heart failure remain persistently high. Thus, this article provides an overview of the current treatment modalities and novel techniques pertaining to DCM, aiming to offer valuable insights and support to researchers dedicated to investigating this complex condition.
Production and characterization of Trichoderma asperellum chitinases and their use in synergy with Bacillus thuringiensis for lepidopteran control
Authors: Berini Francesca , Montali Aurora , Liguori Riccardo , Venturini Giovanni , Bonelli Marco , Shaltiel‐Harpaz Liora , Reguzzoni Marcella , Siti Moran , Marinelli Flavia , Casartelli Morena , Tettamanti Gianluca
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND

Despite their known negative effects on ecosystems and human health, synthetic pesticides are still largely used to control crop insect pests. Currently, the biopesticide market for insect biocontrol mainly relies on the entomopathogenic bacterium Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt). New biocontrol tools for crop protection might derive from fungi, in particular from Trichoderma spp., which are known producers of chitinases and other bioactive compounds able to negatively affect insect survival.

RESULTS

In this study, we first developed an environmentally sustainable production process for obtaining chitinases from Trichoderma asperellum ICC012. Then, we investigated the biological effects of this chitinase preparation – alone or in combination with a Bt‐based product – when orally administered to two lepidopteran species. Our results demonstrate that T. asperellum efficiently produces a multi‐enzymatic cocktail able to alter the chitin microfibril network of the insect peritrophic matrix, resulting in delayed development and larval death. The co‐administration of T. asperellum chitinases and sublethal concentrations of Bt toxins increased larval mortality. This synergistic effect was likely due to the higher amount of Bt toxins that passed the damaged peritrophic matrix and reached the target receptors on the midgut cells of chitinase‐treated insects.

CONCLUSION

Our findings may contribute to the development of an integrated pest management technology based on fungal chitinases that increase the efficacy of Bt‐based products, mitigating the risk of Bt‐resistance development. © 2024 The Author(s). Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
g‐C3N4@CuO electrostatic self‐assembly toward Ralstonia solanacearum: Insights from cytomembrane and motility disruption
Authors: Xia Qiulan , Ran Maoyang , Zhou Lihe , Liu Zhongwei , Cai Lin
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND

Ralstonia solanacearum, a notorious and refractory bacterial plant pathogen, threatens multiple vegetable crops and causes significant economic loss in agriculture. Long‐term use of traditional medicines not only increases the problem of drug resistance, but also causes great environmental pollution. Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop new agents with high efficacy and low toxicity.

RESULTS

In this study, we have synthesized and characterized graphitic carbon nitride incorporated copper oxide composite (g‐C3N4@CuO), which showed higher antimicrobial effect than graphitic carbon nitride nanosheets (g‐C3N4 nanosheets) and copper oxide nanoparticles (CuONPs). Ralstonia solanacearum exposed to g‐C3N4@CuO exhibited higher levels of oxygen toxicity, cell membrane damage, DNA damage, motility disruption and even cell death compared to g‐C3N4 nanosheets and CuONPs. In addition, g‐C3N4@CuO was more effective in the control of tobacco bacterial wilt than g‐C3N4 nanosheets and CuONPs.

CONCLUSION

Thus, this study provides a new perspective on g‐C3N4@CuO control of bacterial diseases in crops, and the mechanism is related to the destruction of cell membrane damage and motility disruption. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Disorder‐Enhanced Corner State and Topological Corner State Transfer in a 2D Rice–Mele Lattice
Authors: Qi Lu , Li Qiao‐Nan , Yan Xu‐Hui , Du Wei , Zhang Xiuyun , He Ai‐Lei
Published: February 2024

The corner states in the 2D Su–Schrieffer–Heeger (SSH) lattice are usually sensitive to disorder. It is shown that the uniform disorder and exponentially decayed disorder both can enhance the localizations of the corner states when the alternative onsite energy is introduced into the 2D SSH lattice mapped by superconducting circuit. The enhanced corner states originate from the fluctuations of onsite energy induced by disorders, which gives an example of utilizing the harmful resources to induce the corner states. Furthermore, different from the traditional topological state transfer based on the usual topological boundary states, it is shown that the high order topological corner state transfer can also be implemented in present lattice via adding the special long‐range hopping. The topological corner state transfer demonstrates the feasibility of using topological corner state to transfer quantum information, which supplies the relevant investigations on the applications of high order topological state in quantum information processing.
Unveiling the nexus: Decoding interactions between regulated cell death and systemic lupus erythematosus pathogenesis for innovative therapeutic avenues
Authors: Tan Qing , Huang Wenhui , Zheng Yu , Li Mingyan , Tao Yi , Yu Shuilian
Published: February 2024

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is characterized by disruptions in cell death pathways and impaired clearance of apoptotic cells, resulting in immune dysregulation and tissue damage. This review explores the complex interplay of regulated cell death (RCD) mechanisms, including apoptosis, necroptosis, pyroptosis, NETosis, autophagy, and ferroptosis, in the pathogenesis of SLE. These pathways release autoantigens and danger signals, triggering autoimmune reactions and inflammation. Six various RCDs have mutual associates to support immune dysregulation and are associated with SLE. Apoptosis intrinsically induces immune tolerance by packaging dying cells into immunologically inert fragments. Deficiencies in apoptotic clearance will result in impaired tolerance. Necroptosis, pyroptosis, NETosis, and ferroptosis lead to cell membrane destruction, production of intracellular immunostimulatory components, and triggering a strong inflammatory immune reaction. Abnormal autophagic activity affects the development, differentiation, function, and metabolism of many immune cell subpopulations. Investigating the interconnections between cell death pathways and SLE sheds light on the disease's underlying mechanisms and provides opportunities for novel therapeutic interventions. The convergence of precision medicine and innovative strategies targeting these intricate pathways holds promise for expanding the landscape of SLE treatment.
RoboBoat: A robotic boat for 3D mapping of partially flooded underground sites
Authors: Villarroel José Luis , Lera Francisco , Tardioli Danilo , Riazuelo Luis , Montano Luis
Published: February 2024

This paper presents the development and field testing of RoboBoat, an unmanned surface vehicle designed to acquire three‐dimensional (3D) point cloud representations of narrow flooded galleries in caves, mines, and other similar environments where conventional surveying and mapping procedures cannot be applied. We developed techniques tailored to these scenarios, including a contour‐following reactive navigation method and an iterative closest point‐based simultaneous localization and mapping method. Custom metrics have been defined to iteratively validate and improve the 3D model of the passageways. The successful field tests in natural caves and mining galleries demonstrate the accuracy of the 3D representation, making it suitable for digital preservation of large‐volume cultural heritage sites.
Pulsed Laser Manufactured Heteroatom Doped Carbon Dots via Heterocyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons for Improved Tribology Performance
Authors: Jin Guangkai , Xue Shenghua , Zhang Rui , Liu Sha , Wang Shiyuan , Liu Shujuan , Ye Qian , Wang Hongqiang , Zhou Feng , Liu Weimin
Published: February 2024

Traditional laser‐assisted method (top‐down synthesis strategy) is applied in the preparation of carbon dots (CDs) by cutting larger carbon materials, which requires harsh conditions, and the size distribution of the CDs is seldom monodisperse. In this work, heteroatom‐doped CDs, represented by N,S co‐doped CDs (N,S‐CDs), can be prepared successfully by pulsed laser irradiation of heterocyclic aromatic hydrocarbons‐based small molecule compound solution. The friction coefficient (COF) of base oil PAO decreases from 0.650 to 0.093, and the wear volume reduces by 92.0% accompanied by 1 wt.% N,S‐CDs addition, while the load‐bearing capacity is improved from 100 to 950 N. The excellent lubrication performance is mainly attributed to the formation of a robust tribofilm via a tribochemical reaction between N,S‐CDs and friction pairs, and the N,S‐CDs can play a mending effect and polishing effect for worn surfaces. Furthermore, the lubricant containing heteroatom doped CDs are capable of being prepared in situ via pulsed laser irradiation of heterocyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in base oil, which can avoid the redispersed problem of nano‐additive in base oil to maintain long‐term dispersion, with COF of 0.103 and low wear volume ≈1.99 × 105 µm3 (76.9% reduction) even after standing for 9 months.
Improved Sequential Model Predictive Control of Cascaded H‐Bridge Multilevel Converter
Authors: Qin Risheng , Kuang Hua , Jiang He , Yu Hui , Li Hong , Li Zhuan
Published: February 2024

The cascaded H‐bridge (CHB) converter can achieve rich functions, such as active rectification, active power filtering, distributed energy storage, etc. The control of the CHB converter is a multiobjective optimization problem. Finite control set model predictive control (FCS‐MPC) is an effective method developed in recent years to solve this problem. However, because of the large amount of calculation, traditional FCS‐MPC cannot be directly used to control the multilevel CHB converter. It is also difficult to tune the weighting factors in traditional FCS‐MPC. To solve these problems, this paper proposes an improved sequential MPC (IS‐MPC) method for the CHB converter. The proposed method divides the control objectives of the CHB converter into different layers according to their priorities and the control degrees of freedom of each layer can be adjusted according to the system state. Simulation and hardware‐in‐the‐loop (HIL) implementation on a three‐phase 7‐level CHB converter shows that the proposed method can effectively control the ac current and submodule voltage of the CHB converter and reduce the switching loss. Moreover, it significantly reduced the calculation burden of traditional FCS‐MPC, and the use of the weighting factors is also avoided. © 2024 Institute of Electrical Engineer of Japan and Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Influence of LLDPE on the mechanical properties improvement of 3D printed POE/LLDPE blends
Authors: Liu Tiejun , Chen Ke
Published: February 2024

Polyolefins and polyolefin elastomers (POEs) are widely used in various applications due to their unique properties. However, their use in 3D printing has been limited due to challenges such as excessive softness, shrinkage, warpage, and poor mechanical properties. In this study, two strategies were employed to enhance the performance of POEs in 3D printing. First, POE was blended with 10%, 30%, and 50% percentages of linear low‐density polyethylene (LLDPE) to improve the material's mechanical properties and printability. Second, a specialized printer called a pneumatic feeding fused granule fabrication (FGF) printer was used. This printer allows for the direct printing of material granules, eliminating the need for filaments and resolving filament‐related problems. To evaluate the quality of the printed parts, tensile tests, dynamic mechanical thermal analysis (DMTA), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) imaging were conducted. The printed parts showed desirable tensile properties (with approximately 3000% elongation at break and approximately 12 MPa tensile strength). Compression tests were also conducted on cubic structures with varied composition ratios and printing patterns such as grid, triangle, and honeycomb. The main purpose of this research was to explore the energy absorption capabilities of the printed blends. The results of our study showed that blending POE with LLDPE improved printability, tensile strength, energy absorption, and compressive properties. The blend with 50% LLDPE and honeycomb structure exhibited the best compressive and energy absorption properties.

Highlights

Blending of POE and LLDPE using melt mixing with three different blending ratios.

Successful 3D printing with the fused granule fabrication technique.

Investigating mechanical properties, microstructure, and thermal analysis.

125% increase in ultimate tensile strength by increasing LLDPE.

Achieving the highest energy absorption for the 3D printed honeycomb structure.
Case study: Bioaugmenting the comammox dominated biomass from B‐stage to enhance nitrification in A‐stage at Blue Plains AWWTP
Authors: Nguyen Quoc Bao , Peng Bo , De Clippeleir Haydee , Winkler Mari‐Karoliina H.
Published: February 2024

A comprehensive case study was undertaken at the Blue Plains wastewater treatment plant (WWTP) to explore the bioaugmentation technique of introducing nitrifying sludge into the non‐nitrifying stage over the course of two operational years. This innovative approach involved the return of waste activated sludge (WAS) from the biological nutrient removal (BNR) system to enhance the nitrification in the high carbon removal rate system. The complete ammonia oxidizer (comammox) Nitrospira Nitrosa was identified as the main nitrifier in the system. Bioaugmentation was shown to be successful as nitrifiers returned from BNR were able to increase the nitrifying activity of the high carbon removal rate system. There was a positive correlation between returned sludge from the BNR stage and the specific total kjeldahl nitrogen (TKN) removal rate in A stage. The bioaugmentation process resulted in a remarkable threefold increase in the specific TKN removal rate within the A stage. Result suggested that recycling of WAS is a simple technique to bio‐augment a low SRT system with nitrifiers and add ammonia oxidation to a previously non‐nitrifying stage. The results from this case study hold the potential for applicable implications for other WWTPs that have a similar operational scheme to Blue Plains, allowing them to reuse WAS from the B stage, previously considered waste, to enhance nitrification and thus improving overall nitrogen removal performance.

Practitioner Points

Comammox identifying as main nitrifier in the B stage.

Comammox enriched sludge from B stage successfully bio‐augmented the East side of A stage up to threefold.

Bioaugmentation of comammox in the West side of A stage was potentially inhibited by the gravity thickened overflow.

Sludge returned from B stage to A stage can improve nitrification with a very minor retrofits and short startup times.
Prologue
Authors: Braithwaite John
Published: February 2024

This book is optimistic in explaining why simple institutions and principles societies can strengthen to help humankind control complex catastrophes that endanger the planet. Security realities of Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMDs) do compel pessimism. Yet my argument is that it is possible to abolish WMDs. The journey of a revived peace movement can grow institutional capability to conquer climate catastrophe, pandemics, economic crises, and to secure peace from smaller wars. The book develops a dialectics of alternating between understanding complex ways of grappling with complexity and simple principles that are generative of nuanced response to complexity.