bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Research progress in the therapy of brucellosis
Authors: Li Chen , Wang Yingdi , Peng Qisheng
Published: July 2023

Brucellosis is a zoonotic bacterial disease posing serious threats to the health of humans and animals. Currently, effective therapeutics available for brucellosis are in urgent demand. Brucellosis is transmitted to humans through diet or contact with infected animals. Several live‐attenuated vaccine strains are commercially available for animals, such asBrucella melitensisRev.1,Brucella abortusS19, and RB51. However, no secure and effective vaccine for human beings has been developed yet against brucellosis, for which antibiotic therapy is the most frequently used and valid. Nevertheless, excessive antibiotics could prohibit the sensitivity ofBrucellaand develop resistance in humans. In addition, other clinical treatments, such as surgical treatment, have little effect on brucellosis. Therefore, novel treatment protocols should be explored. Based on numerous experimental studies, it is speculated that brucellosis can be fundamentally treated by inhibiting the activation of the type IV secretion system and changing the acidic environment of eBCV. In addition, previous literature showed that traditional Chinese medicine therapy also had certain efficacy, providing a new perspective angle for the exploration of treatment options.
On near‐redundancy and identifiability of parametric hazard regression models under censoring
Authors: Rubio Francisco J. , Espindola Jorge A. , Montoya José A.
Published: July 2023

We study parametric inference on a rich class of hazard regression models in the presence of right‐censoring. Previous literature has reported some inferential challenges, such as multimodal or flat likelihood surfaces, in this class of models for some particular data sets. We formalize the study of these inferential problems by linking them to the concepts of near‐redundancy and practical nonidentifiability of parameters. We show that the maximum likelihood estimators of the parameters in this class of models are consistent and asymptotically normal. Thus, the inferential problems in this class of models are related to the finite‐sample scenario, where it is difficult to distinguish between the fitted model and a nested nonidentifiable (i.e., parameter‐redundant) model. We propose a method for detecting near‐redundancy, based on distances between probability distributions. We also employ methods used in other areas for detecting practical nonidentifiability and near‐redundancy, including the inspection of the profile likelihood function and the Hessian method. For cases where inferential problems are detected, we discuss alternatives such as using model selection tools to identify simpler models that do not exhibit these inferential problems, increasing the sample size, or extending the follow‐up time. We illustrate the performance of the proposed methods through a simulation study. Our simulation study reveals a link between the presence of near‐redundancy and practical nonidentifiability. Two illustrative applications using real data, with and without inferential problems, are presented.
Conformational fluctuations and phases in fused in sarcoma (FUS) low‐complexity domain
Authors: Thirumalai D. , Kumar Abhinaw , Chakraborty Debayan , Straub John E. , Mugnai Mauro L.
Published: July 2023

The well‐known phenomenon of phase separation in synthetic polymers and proteins has become a major topic in biophysics because it has been invoked as a mechanism of compartment formation in cells, without the need for membranes. Most of the coacervates (or condensates) are composed of Intrinsically Disordered Proteins (IDPs) or regions that are structureless, often in interaction with RNA and DNA. One of the more intriguing IDPs is the 526‐residue RNA‐binding protein, Fused in Sarcoma (FUS), whose monomer conformations and condensates exhibit unusual behavior that are sensitive to solution conditions. By focussing principally on the N‐terminus low‐complexity domain (FUS‐LC comprising residues 1–214) and other truncations, we rationalize the findings of solid‐state NMR experiments, which show that FUS‐LC adopts a non‐polymorphic fibril structure (core‐1) involving residues 39–95, flanked by fuzzy coats on both the N‐ and C‐terminal ends. An alternate structure (core‐2), whose free energy is comparable to core‐1, emerges only in the truncated construct (residues 110–214). Both core‐1 and core‐2 fibrils are stabilized by a Tyrosine ladder as well as hydrophilic interactions. The morphologies (gels, fibrils, and glass‐like) adopted by FUS seem to vary greatly, depending on the experimental conditions. The effect of phosphorylation is site‐specific. Simulations show that phosphorylation of residues within the fibril has a greater destabilization effect than residues that are outside the fibril region, which accords well with experiments. Many of the peculiarities associated with FUS may also be shared by other IDPs, such as TDP43 and hnRNPA2. We outline a number of problems for which there is no clear molecular explanation.
Machine learning‐based model predictive controller design for cell culture processes
Authors: Rashedi Mohammad , Rafiei Mina , Demers Matthew , Khodabandehlou Hamid , Wang Tony , Tulsyan Aditya , Undey Cenk , Garvin Christopher
Published: July 2023

The biopharmaceutical industry continuously seeks to optimize the critical quality attributes to maintain the reliability and cost‐effectiveness of its products. Such optimization demands a scalable and optimal control strategy to meet the process constraints and objectives. This work uses a model predictive controller (MPC) to compute an optimal feeding strategy leading to maximized cell growth and metabolite production in fed‐batch cell culture processes. The lack of high‐fidelity physics‐based models and the high complexity of cell culture processes motivated us to use machine learning algorithms in the forecast model to aid our development. We took advantage of linear regression, the Gaussian process and neural network models in the MPC design to maximize the daily protein production for each batch. The control scheme of the cell culture process solves an optimization problem while maintaining all metabolites and cell culture process variables within the specification. The linear and nonlinear models are developed based on real cell culture process data, and the performance of the designed controllers is evaluated by running several real‐time experiments.
Computational Fragment‐Based Design of Phytochemical Derivatives as EGFR Inhibitors
Authors: Shama Bhat Gayathri , Shaik Mohammad Fayaz
Published: July 2023

Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) is a potential target with disease modifying benefits against Alzheimer's disease (AD). Repurposing of FDA approved drugs against EGFR have shown beneficial effect against AD but are confined to quinazoline, quinoline and aminopyrimidines. Futuristically, the possibility of acquiring drug resistance mutation as seen in the case of cancer could also hamper AD treatment. To identify novel chemical scaffolds, we rooted on phytochemicals identified from plants such as Acorus calamus, Bacopa monnieri, Convolvulus pluricaulis, Tinospora cordifloia, and Withania somnifera that have well‐established records in the treatment of brain disorders. The rationale was to mimic the biosynthetic metabolite extension process observed in the plants for synthesizing new phytochemical derivates. Thus, novel compounds were designed computationally by fragment‐based method followed by extensive in silico analysis to pick potential phytochemical derivates.

PCD1, 8 and 10 were predicted to have better blood brain barrier permeability. ADMET and SoM analysis suggested that these PCDs exhibited druglike properties. Further simulation studies showed that PCD1 and PCD8 stably interact with EGFR and have the potential to be used even in cases of drug‐resistance mutations. With further experimental evidence, these PCDs could be leveraged as potential inhibitors of EGFR.
Meningitis and endocarditis as a sequela of streptococcus pneumonia mastoiditis: A case report
Authors: Peebles Mitchell , Roshani Mehnaz , Srivastava Kumaraman
Published: July 2023

Key Clinical Message

Austrian Syndrome classically consists of meningitis, endocarditis, and pneumonia due to Streptococcus pneumonia bacteremia. A literature review, however, does not show variants of this triad. Our case highlights a unique variant of Austrian Syndrome with mastoiditis, meningitis, and endocarditis which requires immediate recognition and treatment to prevent devastating patient outcomes.

Streptococcus pneumonia is responsible for more than 50% of all bacterial meningitis and has a case fatality rate of 22% in adults. In addition, Streptococcus pneumonia is also one of the most common causes of acute otitis media, a known cause of mastoiditis. However, in conjunction with bacteremia and endocarditis, limited evidence is able to be identified. This sequence of infections also closely relates to Austrian syndrome. Otherwise known as Osler's triad, Austrian syndrome is a rare phenomenon of meningitis, endocarditis, and pneumonia secondary to Streptococcus pneumonia bacteremia that was first delineated by Robert Austrian in 1956. The incidence of Austrian syndrome is reported to be less than <0.0001% per year and has decreased significantly since the initial usage of penicillin in 1941. Despite this, the mortality rate of Austrian syndrome is still around 32%. Despite an extensive literature review, we were unable to find any reported cases of variants of Austrian syndrome that include mastoiditis as the primary insult. As such, we present a unique presentation of Austrian syndrome with mastoiditis, endocarditis, and meningitis with complex medical management that led to resolution for the patient. To discuss the presentation, progression, and complex medical management of a previously undiscussed triad of mastoiditis, meningitis, and endocarditis occurring in a patient.
Effect of Carbonization Behaviour of Cotton Biomass in Electrodes for Sodium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Sarma Hridip Ranjan , Sun Ju , Hora Yvonne , Forsyth Maria , Byrne Nolene
Published: July 2023

Invited for this issue's Front Cover is the Electromaterials group at the Institute of Frontier Materials of Deakin University (Australia). The cover picture emphasizes the environmental sustainability of recycling cotton textiles to produce flexible & free‐standing hard carbon anodes for sodium‐ion batteries. Read the full text of the Research Article at 10.1002/celc.202300127.
Late‐Stage Functionalization for the Divergent Synthesis of Podophyllotoxin Derivatives by Rhodium Catalysis
Authors: Zhao Yue , Shen Yangpeng , He Jian , Li Jing , Zhou Shengbin , Wang Yunbo , Li Chunpu , Liu Hong
Published: July 2023

Invited for the cover of this issue are Chunpu Li, Hong Liu and co‐workers at Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine, and Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study. The image depicts rhodium catalysis converting the readily available podophyllotoxin into four kinds of novel derivatives. Read the full text of the article at 10.1002/chem.202300960.
Experimental investigation of bubble size evolution released from a fine bubble ejector
Authors: Tao Jinliang , Li Jiao , Huang Qingshan , Xiao Hang , Zhang Haidong , Chen Aqiang
Published: July 2023

The effects of gas flow rate, liquid flow rate, and liquid properties on the bubble size evolution at the outlet zone of an ejector have been investigated systemically. The liquid properties, including surface tension and viscosity, were changed by adding glycerol, ethanol, or Carbopol 2020 into tap water. It was found that increasing the liquid flow rate is beneficial for producing smaller bubbles with a narrower size distribution in the ejector, while the gas flow rate investigated here shows less influence on the generated fine bubble diameter. An intense bubble coalescence phenomenon, which has a negative effect on mass transfer, was first observed at the small outlet zone of the ejector by exploring the bubble size evolution along the axial height. It was found that the mean diameter of the fine bubbles could increase by 48% ~ 90% when they rose only 25 cm from the ejector outlet, and the bubble coalescence could be effectively suppressed by adding a small amount of glycerol to water. The bubble diameter could be reduced by 32% ~ 43% by using a 2 wt.% glycerol solution under the experimental conditions. A comparative study with tap water, glycerol solution, Carbopol solution, and ethanol solution was taken, and the underlying mechanism of reducing the generated bubble size by changing the liquid properties was revealed.
Synthesis of C—N Axial Chirality N‐Arylindoles via Pd(II)‐Catalyzed Free Amine‐Directed Atroposelective C—H Olefination†
Authors: Wang Lei , Yuan Wen‐Kui , Wang Zhen‐Kai , Luo Jun , Zhou Tao , Shi Bing‐Feng
Published: July 2023

Comprehensive Summary

Axially chiral N‐arylindoles bearing a stereogenic C—N axis are unique important scaffolds in natural products, advance materials, pharmaceuticals and privileged chiral ligands or catalysts. Herein, we report the direct synthesis of C—N axially chiral N‐arylindoles through a Pd‐catalyzed free amine‐directed atroposelective C—H olefination enabled by a spiro phosphoric acid (SPA) ligand. A wide range of enantioenriched N‐aromatic amine indoles were obtained in high yields with good enantioselectivities (35 examples, up to 91% yield and up to 96% ee). The chiral products with free amine group offer an effective functional handle for down‐stream diversity‐oriented synthesis.
The epigenetic modifier lysine methyltransferase 2C is frequently mutated in gastric remnant carcinoma
Authors: Sun Bo , Chen Haojie , Lao Jiawen , Tan Cong , Zhang Yue , Shao Zhen , Xu Dazhi
Published: July 2023

Gastric remnant carcinoma (GRC), which occurs in the stomach after partial gastrectomy, is a rare and aggressive form of gastric adenocarcinoma (GAC). Comprehensive profiling of genomic mutations in GRC could provide the basis for elucidating the origin and characteristics of this cancer. Herein, whole‐exome sequencing (WES) was performed on 36 matched tumor–normal samples from patients with GRC and identified recurrent mutations in epigenetic modifiers, notably KMT2C, ARID1A, NSD1, and KMT2D, in 61.11% of cases. Mutational signature analysis revealed a low frequency of microsatellite instability (MSI) in GRC, which was further identified by MSIsensor, MSI‐polymerase chain reaction, and immunohistochemistry analysis. Comparative analysis demonstrated that GRC had a distinct mutation spectrum compared to that of GAC in The Cancer Genome Atlas samples, with a significantly higher mutation rate of KMT2C. Targeted deep sequencing (Target‐seq) of an additional 25 paired tumor–normal samples verified the high mutation frequency (48%) of KMT2C in GRC. KMT2C mutations correlated with poor overall survival in both WES and Target‐seq cohorts and were independent prognosticators in GRC. In addition, KMT2C mutations were positively correlated with favorable outcomes in immune checkpoint inhibitor‐treated pan‐cancer patients and associated with higher intratumoral CD3+, CD8+ tumor‐infiltrating lymphocyte counts, and PD–L1 expression in GRC samples (p = 0.018, 0.092, 0.047, 0.010, and 0.034, respectively). Our dataset provides a platform for information and knowledge mining of the genomic characteristics of GRC and helps to frame new therapeutic approaches for this disease.
Recent Synthetic Methods towards Graphdiyne
Authors: Hou Jiaheng , Sun Lishui , Pan Qingyan , Zhao Yingjie
Published: July 2023

Graphdiyne (GDY) is an exclusive carbon allotrope with a two‐dimensional (2D) structure that can be synthesized in laboratory settings. Due to its distinctive 2D structure and excellent electronic properties, GDY has captured the great interest of researchers. In addition, the porous nature and high specific surface area of GDY afford numerous storage sites and channels, rendering it highly promising for diverse applications. The synthesis of GDY still faces a multitude of obstacles and challenges. Developing new synthesis methods towards high‐quality GDY is particularly significant. As such, we here presented an overview of the reported synthesis techniques for GDY, categorizing them into three distinct approaches: interfacial synthesis, solid‐phase synthesis, and solution‐phase synthesis. This comprehensive summary provides valuable references for addressing the persistent challenges in the synthesis of GDY. In the end, an outlook sheds light on future research of the GDY materials.
Tuned Transport Path of Perovskite MAPbI3‐based Memristor Structure
Authors: Doan Uyen Tu Thi , Le Duy Khanh , Huynh Truong Lam , Ngo Tung Thanh , Vo Trieu Quang , Thi Minh Thu Tran , Pham Anh Tuan Thanh , Tran Vinh Cao , Nguyen Phuong Tuyet , Pham Ngoc Kim
Published: July 2023

In this study, the features of resistive random access memory (RRAM) employing a straightforward Cr/MAPbI3/FTO three‐layer structure have been examined and clarified. The device displays various resistance switching (RS) behavior at various sweep voltages between 0.5 and 5 V. The RS effect has a conversion in the direction of the SET and RESET processes during sweeping for a number of cycles at a specific voltage. The directional change of the RS processes corresponds to the dominant transition between the generation/recombination of iodide ion and vacancy in the MAPbI3 perovskite layer and the electrochemical metallization of the Cr electrode under the influence of an electric field, which results in the conductive filament (CF) formation/rupture. At each stage, these processes are controlled by specific charge conduction mechanisms, including Ohmic conduction, space‐charge‐limited conduction (SCLC), and variable‐range hopping (VRH). By identifying the biased voltage and the quantity of voltage sweep cycles, one can take a new approach to control or modulate the pathways for effective charge transport. This new approach is made possible by an understanding of the RS characteristics and the corresponding mechanisms causing the variation of RS behavior in the structure.
Photo‐Lipids: Light‐Sensitive Nano‐Switches to Control Membrane Properties
Authors: Socrier Larissa , Steinem Claudia
Published: July 2023

Biological membranes are described as a complex mixture of lipids and proteins organized according to thermodynamic principles. This chemical and spatial complexity can lead to specialized functional membrane domains enriched with specific lipids and proteins. The interaction between lipids and proteins restricts their lateral diffusion and range of motion, thus altering their function. One approach to investigating these membrane properties is to use chemically accessible probes. In particular, photo‐lipids, which contain a light‐sensitive azobenzene moiety that changes its configuration from trans‐ to cis‐ upon light irradiation, have recently gained popularity for modifying membrane properties. These azobenzene‐derived lipids serve as nanotools for manipulating lipid membranes in vitro and in vivo. Here, we will discuss the use of these compounds in artificial and biological membranes as well as their application in drug delivery. We will focus mainly on changes in the membrane's physical properties as well as lipid membrane domains in phase‐separated liquid‐ordered/liquid‐disordered bilayers driven by light, and how these changes in membrane physical properties alter transmembrane protein function.
Low‐Symmetry Macrocycles and Cages for Carbohydrate Recognition
Authors: Manick Anne‐Doriane , Dutasta Jean‐Pierre , Martinez Alexandre
Published: July 2023

The recognition of carbohydrate plays a key role in numerous biological processes. Thus, artificial receptors have been synthesized to mimic these biological systems. To date, most of the receptors reported for carbohydrate complexation present highly symmetrical cavities, probably because their syntheses require less synthetic efforts and are easier to achieve and control. However, carbohydrates display complex, asymmetrical structures suggesting that hosts with low symmetry might be more adapted to recognize these guests. Here, we described the strategies that have been used to complex carbohydrates with macrocycles and cages presenting low symmetry and the potential of this approach. Self‐assembled cages are first described, then covalent macrocycles and cages are presented and for each example the binding properties of low‐symmetry systems are compared to those of their higher‐symmetry counterparts.
How firms leverage corporate environmental strategy to nurture green behavior: Role of multi‐level environmentally responsible leadership
Authors: Faraz Naveed Ahmad , Ahmed Fawad , Xiong Zhengde
Published: July 2023

The implementation of a firm's corporate environmental strategy is contingent on a practical mechanism between leaders and employees as stakeholders to spread a collective stimulus of responsible behaviors from top to bottom. This study builds on the theoretical underpinnings of social identity theory to examine the influence of corporate environmental strategy on employees' voluntary green behavior through the mediating role of middle managers' environmentally responsible leadership and the moderating role of CEOs' environmentally responsible leadership. The sample included 1532 middle managers‐subordinate dyads from 91 automotive firms and their supply chain business partners in China. Multi‐source data on CEOs' and managers' environmentally responsible leadership and employees' voluntary green behavior were collected in two stages and analyzed with multilevel structural equation modeling through the MPlus 8.3 software. The findings supported all the hypothesized relationships in predicting employees' voluntary green behavior, including the mediating and moderating mechanisms. Theoretical and managerial implications are offered, along with limitations and suggestions for future research.
Feedback and PT symmetry in a class of active LCR circuits
Authors: Mayosky Miguel , Veiga Alejandro , Canal Carlos García , Fanchiotti Huner
Published: July 2023

Systems with non‐Hermitian Hamiltonians, especially those exhibiting parity‐time (
) symmetry, are of particular interest as they can describe physical open systems with balanced loss into and gain from the environment. In this context, the study of eigenvalue locations and the corresponding phase transitions as a function of the degree of non‐Hermiticity are accomplished hereby using feedback theory. This approach provides insight about the behavior of these systems and allows generalization of the results for higher‐order ones. The proposed ideas are analyzed in detail for a class of coupled resonant circuit chains.
Electromagnetic band gap coupled tri‐notched miniaturized ultra‐wideband antenna loaded with slot and parasitic strip
Authors: Mukherjee Surajit , Roy Avisankar , Maity Smarajit , Tewary Tapas , Dutta Koushik , Bhunia Sunandan
Published: July 2023

An electromagnetic band gap (EBG) coupled miniaturized tri‐notched printed ultra‐wideband (UWB) monopole microstrip antenna having dimensions of 22 mm × 26 mm × 1.6 mm loaded with a slot in radiating patch and a parasitic strip in the ground plane has been presented. The proposed structure incorporates a square‐shaped metallic radiating patch with a square EBG structure adjacent to the microstrip feed line, a U‐shaped meandered slot over the radiating element, and a U‐shaped parasitic resonator at the ground plane beneath the radiating element, to reject the C‐band satellite downlink (3.7 to 4.2 GHz), WLAN frequency band (5.15 to 5.85 GHz), and X‐band satellite downlink (7.25 to 7.75 GHz) frequency bands, respectively. The designed antenna operates in the frequency range from 3 to 11.1 GHz, with an impedance bandwidth of 8.1 GHz and a percentage bandwidth of 114%. Modification steps incorporating into the reference antenna to achieve the desired design objectives have been discussed, along with parametric studies. The proposed design has been simulated using Ansys HFSS, and measurement has been taken using standard measurement technique and compared with the simulated results.
Pioneer tree species accelerate restoration of tree‐related microhabitats in 50‐year‐old reserves of Białowieża Forest, Poland
Authors: Spînu Andreea Petronela , Mysiak Weronika , Bauhus Jürgen , Bielak Kamil , Niklasson Mats
Published: July 2023

Retention of structural elements such as deadwood and habitat trees at the level of forest stands has been promoted to integrate biodiversity conservation into multiple‐use forest management. The conservation value of habitat trees is largely determined by the presence, richness, and abundance of tree‐related microhabitats (TreMs). Since TreMs are often lacking in intensively managed forests, an important question of forest conservation is how the abundance and richness of TreMs may be effectively restored. Here, we investigated whether the strict protection of forest through cessation of timber harvesting influenced TreM occurrence at tree and stand levels. For that purpose, we compared four managed and four set‐aside stands (0.25 ha each) in the Białowieża Forest, with identical origin following clear‐cuts approximately 100 years ago. We found that the abundance and richness of TreMs on living trees were not significantly different between stands that were either conventionally managed or where active forest management ceased 52 years ago. Yet, our analysis of TreMs on tree species with contrasting life‐history traits revealed that short‐lived, fast‐growing species (pioneers) developed TreMs quicker than longer‐lived, slower‐growing species. Hence, tree species such as Populus or Betula, which supply abundant and diverse TreMs, can play an important role in accelerating habitat restoration.
The genetic structure and demographic history ofZabelia tyaihyonii, endemic to Korean limestone karst forests, based on genome‐wide SNP markers
Authors: Choi In‐Su , Han Eun‐Kyeong , Wojciechowski Martin F. , Heo Tae‐Im , Park Jong‐Soo , Yang Jong‐Cheol , Gantsetseg Amarsanaa , Cheon Kyeong‐Sik , Tamaki Ichiro , Lee Jung‐Hyun
Published: July 2023

Similar to the global phenomenon, many plant species endemic to Korean limestone karst forests are at risk of extinction due to human intervention.Zabelia tyaihyoniiis a familiar shrub, called “Hardy abelia” and “Fragrant abelia” growing in the karst forests of Korea, where it is one of the most threatened species. We investigated the genetic structure and demographic history ofZ. tyaihyonii, which allow us to develop appropriate conservation and management strategies. The genetic structure was evaluated using a total of 187 samples from 14 populations, covering the entire distribution ofZ. tyaihyoniiin South Korea. We utilized 254 and 1753 SNP loci obtained via MIG‐seq (Multiplexed ISSR Genotyping by sequencing) for structure and demographic analyses, respectively. The population demographic modeling was performed with site frequency spectrum. To gain further historical insights, we also employed ENM (Ecological Niche Modeling). We found two distinct clusters (CLI and CLII) of ancient origin (ca. 490 ka). Despite CLII experiencing a more severe bottleneck, both clusters showed similar levels of genetic diversity, indicating mutual historical gene flow. Their historical distribution range seems to have changed very little. We proposed a historical distribution scenario forZ. tyaihyonii, taking into account its intrinsic factors, and emphasized a more complex response to Quaternary climate change beyond simple allopatric speciation models. These findings provide valuable insights for conservation and management strategies forZ. tyaihyonii.
Ocean connectivity and habitat characteristics predict population genetic structure of seagrass in an extreme tropical setting
Authors: Hernawan Udhi E. , van Dijk Kor‐jent , Kendrick Gary A. , Feng Ming , Berry Oliver , Kavazos Christopher , McMahon Kathryn
Published: July 2023

Understanding patterns of gene flow and processes driving genetic differentiation is important for a broad range of conservation practices. In marine organisms, genetic differentiation among populations is influenced by a range of spatial, oceanographic, and environmental factors that are attributed to the seascape. The relative influences of these factors may vary in different locations and can be measured using seascape genetic approaches. Here, we applied a seascape genetic approach to populations of the seagrass, Thalassia hemprichii, at a fine spatial scale (~80 km) in the Kimberley coast, western Australia, a complex seascape with strong, multidirectional currents greatly influenced by extreme tidal ranges (up to 11 m, the world's largest tropical tides). We incorporated genetic data from a panel of 16 microsatellite markers, overwater distance, oceanographic data derived from predicted passive dispersal on a 2 km‐resolution hydrodynamic model, and habitat characteristics from each meadow sampled. We detected significant spatial genetic structure and asymmetric gene flow, in which meadows 12–14 km apart were less connected than ones 30–50 km apart. This pattern was explained by oceanographic connectivity and differences in habitat characteristics, suggesting a combined scenario of dispersal limitation and facilitation by ocean current with local adaptation. Our findings add to the growing evidence for the key role of seascape attributes in driving spatial patterns of gene flow. Despite the potential for long‐distance dispersal, there was significant genetic structuring over small spatial scales implicating dispersal and recruitment bottlenecks and highlighting the importance of implementing local‐scale conservation and management measures.
Flexible “V‐Shaped” Dibenzimidazole Amphiphile: Metal Ion‐Driven Microenvironment‐Sensitive Reversible Supramolecular Assembly in Aqueous Medium
Authors: Mondal Sourav , Dey Nilanjan
Published: July 2023

Flexible dibenzimidazole based amphiphilic probe with indole as terminal residue has been synthesized using simple one‐step oxidative condensation. The compound formed nanoaggregates in the aqueous medium probably via extended intermolecular hydrogen bonding network involving benzimidazole moieties. The compound in monomer form (in THF) showed metal ion‐induced bathochromic shift, while in aggregate state (in water) metal coordination leads to hypsochromic shift. Moreover, in THF medium, compound interacts with large number of metal ions, whereas optical response was specifically observed with Hg2+ and Ag+ in the aqueous medium. Discrimination between Hg2+ and Ag+ was achieved using chloride as masking agent. Mechanistic investigations indicate formation of coordination‐driven supramolecular assembly where both benzimidazole and indole moieties participate in metal ion binding. The changes in microenvironment, such as local hydrophobicity, pH etc. showed distinct impact on metal ion sensing properties, both in terms of selectivity and sensitivity. Finally, the quantitative estimation of mercury, beyond its permissible level, was achieved in various natural water samples.
The Influence of Water in the Vapor‐Assisted Conversion Synthesis of UiO‐67 MOF Thin Films
Authors: Gschwind Wanja , McCarthy Brian D. , Suremann Nina F. , Ott Sascha
Published: July 2023

Water is known to play an important role for the crystallization and stability of Zr‐based metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs). This work investigates its effect on the vapor‐assisted conversion (VAC) synthesis of UiO‐67 MOF thin films on Au‐coated Si substrates. We demonstrate the equilibration processes taking place during the VAC procedure, confirming the gradual equilibration of all solutions upon heating. The presence of water affects the vapor phase composition but does not significantly impact the acetic acid equilibration rate. However, the preparation of UiO‐67 thin films by VAC is highly sensitive to the water content in the reaction. Some water is required for the formation of the zirconium clusters, but excessive water in the reaction vial yields poorly crystalline materials. Atmospheric water that is taken up by the vapor source can be sufficient to reduce crystallinity dramatically. This complication can be partially overcome by increasing the amount of acetic acid in the vapor source.
Active power control strategy based on characteristic curve fitting for photovoltaic sources
Authors: Cai Hongda , Yang Pengcheng , Wang Yu , Wei Wei , Li Jing , Zhou Yongzhi
Published: July 2023

With the explosive growth of photovoltaic (PV) penetration, there is an increasingly urgent expectation for PV sources to provide a full range of ancillary services to the utility. The most critical issue for a PV source to support the power system is the flexible power regulating capability, whereas the PV sources generally operates in the maximum power point tracking (MPPT) mode to maximize the solar harvest. This paper proposes an active power control strategy for PV sources based on a characteristic curve fitting method. With the proposed control strategy, PV sources can operate in the MPPT mode or adaptively switch to the power dispatch mode to flexibly regulate its output power to track the power reference. The characteristic curve fitting method does not require an irradiation sensor, but it has a more stable performance under rapid and continuous change in irradiation with simple calculation and error control since its extremely high similarity with the P–U characteristics of the PV source. Simulation is performed based on a detailed PV dynamic model to validate the proposed control strategy.
Optimization of heat transfer performance of a micro‐bare‐tube heat exchanger using a genetic algorithm
Authors: Li Shilong , Zhou Wenjie , Sangani Hersh A. , Wang Jian , Wang Jiajun
Published: July 2023

This study presents the optimization of the heat transfer coefficient of a micro bare tube heat exchanger. A physical and mathematical model of a micro bare tube heat exchanger was built in Matlab using the simplified ε‐number of transfer unit method. Using a temperature of minus 30°C and a 0.5–1.0 mm tube outer diameter, a 1.7–8.0 mm longitudinal tube pitch, a 1.7–5 mm transverse tube pitch, and a 1.0–5.0 m/s velocity at minimum free flow area, with carbon dioxide as the refrigerant, a comparative variation analysis was performed to optimize the heat transfer coefficient of a micro‐bare‐tube heat exchanger. The results demonstrate that the heat transfer coefficient increases as the inlet air velocity is increased from 1.0 to 5.0 m/s, with a final gain of 93.17%. The growth rate of the heat transfer coefficient steadily decreases with increasing inlet air velocity and gradually approaches zero. The effect of the gradual decrease of the tube outer diameter from 1.0 to 0.5 mm on the heat transfer coefficient is 22.52% greater than that of the gradual decrease of the transverse tube pitch from 2.2 to 1.7 mm. The study also carried out an optimization analysis on the distribution of four different variables in the heat exchanger. With the use of a genetic algorithm, the study found an optimal distribution to maximize the heat transfer coefficient. The following parameter values resulted in the maximum heat transfer coefficient: a maximum inlet air velocity of 5.0 m/s, a minimum tube outer diameter of 0.5 mm, a 1.7 mm longitudinal tube pitch, and a 1.7 mm transverse tube pitch.
A methodology to designate radiation‐controlled areas in decommissioning nuclear power plants
Authors: Kim Seongjun , Kong Tae Young , Choi Woo Seok , Son Jinho , Kim Hwapyoung , Song Changju , Kim Jiung , Yang Ki Tae , Song Jong Soon , Kim Hee Geun
Published: July 2023

Kori Unit 1, which was permanently shut down in 2017, is expected to be the first decommissioned commercial nuclear power plant (NPP) in Korea. Operating NPPs designate radiation‐controlled areas (RCAs) to protect workers from radiological hazards and provide appropriate measures. Decommissioning RCAs (DRCAs) in NPPs being decommissioned should also be designated by considering the radiological characteristics of workplaces and exposure routes of decommissioning workers, such as external and internal exposure. However, the criteria for the DRCAs in decommissioning Kori Unit 1 are presently the same as those during normal operation, according to the public‐hearing material of the final decommissioning plan for Kori Unit 1. This study analyzed criteria for RCAs in all Korean NPPs to propose criteria for DRCAs in decommissioning NPPs. Analysis results show that RCAs are classified into four, five, six, and eight zones in Korean pressurized water reactors with respective external radiation dose rates. The RCAs in Korean pressurized heavy water reactors are classified into six zones with external dose rates and derived air concentrations of tritium. This study proposes three classifications of DRCAs to keep occupational exposure as low as reasonably achievable while considering potential exposure routes, that is, external exposure, airborne contamination, and surface contamination areas. First, the external exposure areas are classified into several zones according to the levels of external radiation dose rates. Second, the airborne contamination areas are designated to prevent internal exposure to workers from the inhalation of radioactive material in the air during cutting and demolition. Last, the surface contamination areas are designated to minimize the skin contamination of workers as radioactive dust in the air is deposited on the surface of facilities and equipment over time.
Methods of extraction of bioactive compounds fromTerminalia Chebula(Haritaki) and their application in food and pharmaceutical industry: A review
Authors: Jha Avinash K. , Sit Nandan
Published: July 2023

Medicinal plants are an integral element of human society's effort to battle illness.Terminalia chebulaRetz. (Haritaki) is known in China as the “King of Medicine” and is usually at the top of the list of “Ayurvedic Material Medica” due to its incredible healing potential. The whole plant has great medicinal potential and has traditionally been used to cure a variety of human diseases. The global need for herbal medicines is continuously growing. For the most part, the Indian medical system relies on herbal remedies to treat illnesses. A significant number of pharmacological research on diverse medicinal plants have been done widely across the world where haritaki has been the subject of a lot of research in recent years. In addition, more research is needed to fully utilize its therapeutic potential in other medical conditions. More studies of this medication's bioactivity, mechanism of action, pharmacotherapeutics, toxicity, standardization, preclinical investigations, and clinical trials are needed for its global safe usage. In the present effort, chemical constituents, and bioactive properties of haritaki have been reviewed in detail with a brief description of extraction methods of bioactive compounds and applications.
Tools for deprescribing in severe dementia: A scoping review
Authors: Wang Christina , Roberts Eliot , Smith Greg , Carland Jane E. , Cordato Nicholas J.
Published: July 2023

Objectives

Identification of inappropriate medications in people living with severe dementia is a complex task which has the potential to reduce avoidable adverse events and increase quality of life. This scoping review (i) identifies published tools intended to aid deprescribing in people living with severe dementia and (ii) describes evaluations of their usefulness in clinical practice.

Methods

A scoping review was undertaken, with Medline, Medline in Process, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, CINAHL, Scopus and Web of Science databases, from inception to April 2023, identifying tools for deprescribing in severe dementia. A tool was considered as any resource for deprescribing, including clinical study, scientific publication, health guideline, website, algorithm, model or framework. Two reviewers assessed the eligibility of articles through abstract and full text review. Data extracted from included studies were summarized through narrative synthesis.

Results

Twelve studies were identified from 18,633 articles screened. Tools were categorized into three groups: deprescribing interventions (n = 2), consensus‐based deprescribing criteria (n = 5), and medication‐specific recommendations (n = 5). Six studies developed tools using expert opinion and ten tools were tested in people living with severe dementia. Only one of the four studies that evaluated patient outcomes (cognitive change and adverse events) identified clear clinical benefit from medication withdrawal.

Conclusions

Clinical application of current deprescribing tools is limited due to the lack of evidence‐based research on the clinical effects of individual medication deprescribing in people with severe dementia. Further research on patient outcomes, including cognitive change and adverse events, will help clarify the role of these tools in clinical care.
Association between uric acid and depressive symptoms in older adults: The Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey
Authors: Kim Joo O. , Park Gyu Nam , Oh Jae Won , Lee San
Published: July 2023

Background

Uric acid is known for its antioxidant capacity; however, whether uric acid is independently associated with depression in the older population remains controversial. The current study aimed to investigate the association between uric acid and depressive symptoms in older adults according to sex, using a large national sample population.

Methods

Data from the 2016, 2018, and 2020 Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys were analyzed, and 5609 participants older than 60 years were included in this study. We defined a Patient Health Questionnaire‐9 score ≥5 as indicating the presence of depressive symptoms.

Results

The prevalence of depressive symptoms was higher in women with lower uric acid levels than in those with higher uric acid levels. In women, the lower levels of uric acid were significantly associated with depressive symptoms in the multivariable logistic regression analysis (odds ratio, 1.36; 95% confidence interval, 1.10–1.68; p = 0.005). However, no significant association between uric acid levels and depressive symptoms was observed in men.

Conclusion

The findings of this study suggest that uric acid is associated with depressive symptoms in older women, but not in men. Relatively lower serum uric acid levels in women compared to men and sex differences in oxidative stress may explain the significant association of uric acid levels and depressive symptoms in older women. Further research is needed on sex differences in the relationship between serum uric acid levels and depressive symptoms.
Psychological benefits of the COVID‐19 vaccination: A Bangladeshi comparative study
Authors: Nur Mohammad Imtiaz , Al‐Mamun Firoj , Yasmin Farzana , Mohiuddin Mohammad Sarif , Kaggwa Mark M. , Sikder Md. Tajuddin , Mamun Mohammed A.
Published: July 2023

Background and Aims

Despite evidence that COVID‐19 vaccination can strengthen mental health, there is limited evidence about this in Bangladesh. Thus, this comparative study assessed the prevalence and factors associated with mental health problems between vaccine receivers and nonreceivers.

Methods

Using a snowball sampling technique, a web‐based cross‐sectional study was conducted among a total of 459 participants. The survey questionnaire included sociodemographic information, the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ—9), the Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD—7), and the Trauma Screening Questionnaire (TSQ—10).

Results

The study found that mental health problems were nonsignificantly prevalent in the vaccine nonreceivers than those who received it (i.e., 24.79% vs. 20.60% for depression, 21.20% vs. 16.60% for anxiety, and 15.30% vs. 12.60% for posttraumatic stress disorder). Female gender, chronic condition, smoking status, and alcohol consumption were the risk factors for mental health problems.

Conclusion

This study's findings suggest that the COVID‐19 vaccination necessarily improves mental health outcomes. However, the study had limitations in terms of its design and sampling technique, and further research is needed to establish a cause‐effect relationship between vaccination and mental health problems.
Interpreting human rights as the social psychological phenomenon of rights claiming
Authors: Drazenovich George , Stroink Mirella
Published: July 2023

In the last 5 years, the intersection between psychology and human rights has become more evident, with influential international, national and local human rights institutions, including the American Psychological Association, issuing reports and resolutions on the topic. Within jurisprudence, human rights are less of a legalistic regulatory enactment and more of what social psychologists refer to as injunctive norms. We argue that conceptualising human rights as the social‐psychological process of both creating and aligning injunctive and descriptive norms clarifies human rights and makes them more accessible to groups and individuals in society engaged in rights claiming. Rights claiming is a term we use to describe the moral cognitive process of people engaged in individual and/or collective behaviour aimed at securing their social identity within the public sphere where that identity is marginalised or the subject of discrimination. We argue that placing rights claiming at the centre of human rights psychology advances human rights. Focusing psychological research on social identity, the alignment of injunctive norms, deontic moral cognitions, human dignity, social dominance orientations and collective and individual behaviours forms part of securing a clear specialty in psychological science dedicated to human rights and advancing the American Psychological Association (APA)'s human rights mandate.
Irrigation optimization in green asparagus (Asparagus officinalis L.) using the AquaCrop model and evolutionary strategy algorithms
Authors: Cruz‐Bautista Fidencio , López‐Cruz Irineo Lorenzo , Rodríguez Julio César , Ochoa‐Meza Andrés , Ruíz‐García Agustín , Er‐Raki Salah
Published: July 2023

Appropriate irrigation water management has attracted considerable attention because it is crucial to guarantee water and food security worldwide. This study aims to solve a water usage optimization problem for asparagus farming using the Deficit Irrigation Toolbox (DIT) optimization tool and AquaCrop‐OS model. Seven irrigation strategies were planned to assess the yield response of asparagus spears in the region near Caborca, Sonora, Mexico. Three of them were defined according to the usual practices of conventional irrigation, and the other four involved the optimization approach. Crop water productivity responses to 750, 1000, 1250 and 1500 mm of supplied water for the crop growing season were generated and assessed for each strategy. Using the irrigation optimization strategy, which involved a defined decision table using the covariance matrix adaptation evolutionary strategy, resulted in increased water productivity, making it the best solution to the optimization problem. A spear yield of 11.3–12.1 t ha−1 was obtained using an irrigation depth of 1200 mm, thus resulting in a reduced irrigation depth of 580–615 mm (>30%) for the 2019 growing season and 130–165 mm (±10%) for the 2020 growing season. The novelty of the study is that by formulating a dynamic optimization problem using the AquaCrop‐OS model and DIT, it is demonstrated that the water currently used for irrigation of asparagus crops can be reduced by up to 30%.