bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synthesis of 2‐Trifluoromethyl‐4‐aminoquinolines via Heating‐Promoted Multi‐component Reaction of CF3‐Imidoyl Sulfoxonium Ylides and Amines with Difluorocarbene as a C1 Synthon†
Authors: Wei Guangming , Li Chen , Wang Haoyuan , Chen Zhengkai , Wu Xiao‐Feng
Published: July 2023

Comprehensive Summary

A thermally‐induced multi‐component reaction of CF3‐substituted imidoyl sulfoxonium ylides (TFISYs), amines and (triphenylphosphonio)difluoroacetate (PDFA) has been developed, allowing a facile access to 2‐trifluoromethyl‐4‐aminoquinolines in high yields. The reaction proceeds smoothly with or without the addition of sulfur and utilizes difluorocarbene as a C1 synthon under simply heating conditions. Mechanistic study reveals thatin‐situgenerated thiocarbonyl fluoride, isothiocyanate orgem‐difluoroalkene might act as the key reaction intermediates.
Commentary on small‐volume biopsy of follicular lymphoma: Practical issues in the molecular era
Authors: Chen Chien‐Chin
Published: July 2023

Follicular lymphoma (FL) is a common subtype of non‐Hodgkin lymphoma derived from germinal center B‐cells. Small‐volume biopsies (SVBs), including fine‐needle aspiration, needle core biopsy, and cell blocks, are often used for the assessment of patients with FL. Recently, Fitzpatrick et al. found that additional biopsies were frequently needed to supplement SVB for the initial diagnosis of FL. However, regardless of the type of SVB used, additional biopsies were usually not necessary for assessments for transformed or recurrent FL. Their multi‐institutional study reflects the fact that SVB may be sufficient for clinical decision‐making in these medical settings, although surgical excision is the gold standard for a definitive diagnosis of FL. With ancillary tests and advances in molecular testing, SVB has become increasingly popular and helpful, although there are practical limitations.
Sensitivity analysis of a multi‐physics model for the vascular microenvironment
Authors: Vitullo Piermario , Cicci Ludovica , Possenti Luca , Coclite Alessandro , Costantino Maria Laura , Zunino Paolo
Published: July 2023

The vascular microenvironment is the scale at which microvascular transport, interstitial tissue properties and cell metabolism interact. The vascular microenvironment has been widely studied by means of quantitative approaches, including multi‐physics mathematical models as it is a central system for the pathophysiology of many diseases, such as cancer. The microvascular architecture is a key factor for fluid balance and mass transfer in the vascular microenvironment, together with the physical parameters characterizing the vascular wall and the interstitial tissue. The scientific literature of this field has witnessed a long debate about which factor of this multifaceted system is the most relevant. The purpose of this work is to combine the interpretative power of an advanced multi‐physics model of the vascular microenvironment with state of the art and robust sensitivity analysis methods, in order to determine the factors that most significantly impact quantities of interest, related in particular to cancer treatment. We are particularly interested in comparing the factors related to the microvascular architecture with the ones affecting the physics of microvascular transport. Ultimately, this work will provide further insight into how the vascular microenvironment affects cancer therapies, such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy or immunotherapy.
Multiple load operation of indirect matrix converter for different frequencies using symmetrical space vector modulation
Authors: Ahmad Khanday Sajid , Hamid Bhat Abdul , Chandra Sekhar Obbu
Published: July 2023

This study describes an indirect matrix converter (IMC) that uses symmetrical space vector pulse width modulation (SSVPWM) to feed two loads from a single DC link at a variable frequency. Output stage‐I is connected to the static load, while output stage‐II is connected to the PMSM for speed control. It is appropriate for drive systems with variable frequency, such as those seen in wind power generation and aviation. In recent years, significant studies on AC‐AC converters have been conducted due to the rising interest in electric cars and renewable energy. The performance of permanent magnet motors is better than that of other types of AC motors due to their superior performance and residual flux permanent magnets. Contrary to normal back‐to‐back power conversion systems, IMC does not necessitate the use of capacitors in the DC‐link, decoupled control between the two‐stages, a simple clamping circuit or zero current switching in the rectifier stage, allowing the system's volume to be reduced. It is investigated how well the two output stages of the proposed IMC perform. To illustrate the benefits of the suggested IMC design, an improved SSVPWM is employed, and MATLAB/SIMULINK‐based simulations were performed to validate the efficacy of the modulation mechanism. In addition, the real‐time implementation of the work was validated using a real‐time simulator, OPAL‐RT (OP4510).
Effect of pulsed laser parameters on photoacoustic flow cytometry efficiency in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Grishin Oleg V. , Shushunova Natalia A. , Bratashov Daniil N. , Prikhozhdenko Ekaterina S. , Verkhovskii Roman A. , Kozlova Anastasiia A. , Abdurashitov Arkady S. , Sindeeva Olga A. , Karavaev Anatoly S. , Kulminskiy Danil D. , Shashkov Evgeny V. , Inozemtseva Olga A. , Tuchin Valery V.
Published: July 2023

Photoacoustic flow cytometry is one of the most effective approaches to detect “alien” objects in the bloodstream, including circulating tumor cells, blood clots, parasites, and emboli. However, the possibility of detecting high‐amplitude signals from these objects against the background of blood depends on the parameters of the laser pulse. So, the dependencies of photoacoustic signals amplitude and number on laser pulse energy (5–150 μJ), pulse length (1, 2, 5 ns), and pulse repetition rate (2, 5, 10 kHz) for the melanoma cells were investigated. First, the PA responses of a melanoma cell suspension in vitro were measured to directly assess the efficiency of converting laser light into an acoustic signal. After it, the same dependence with the developed murine model based on constant rate melanoma cell injection into the animal blood flow was tested. Both in vivo and in vitro experiments show that signal generation efficiency increases with laser pulse energy above 15 μJ. Shorter pulses, especially 1 ns, provide more efficient signal generation as well as higher pulse rates. A higher pulse rate also provides more efficient signal generation, but also leads to overheating of the skin. The results show the limits where the photoacoustic flow cytometry system can be effectively used for the detection of circulating tumor cells in undiluted blood both for in vitro experiments and for in vivo murine models.
Jumping spider invades an orb web to prey on a resident male
Authors: Kuntner Matjaž , Kuntner Eva , Kuntner Maj , Kuntner Irena , Li Daiqin
Published: July 2023

While surveying operational sex ratios of the giant golden orb weaverNephila pilipes(Fabricius, 1793) in Singapore, we documented a stunning case of predatory behavior of a jumping spiderViciria pavesiiThorell, 1877. A femaleV. pavesiiinvaded aN. pilipesorb web that was occupied by the resident female and four males, and successfully captured, killed, and removed one of theNephilamales. Whether araneophagy inV. pavesiiis opportunistic or a predatory ritual remains to be tested more precisely, but because the observed predatory event triggered an aggressive response by theN. pilipesalpha male, it is plausible thatV. pavesiimay engage in aggressive mimicry. We place our observation into the context of jumping spider cognition and behavioral tactics that are so far well understood only in a few spartaeine genera, notablyPortiaKarsch, 1878.ViciriaThorell, 1877, we argue, is another such jumping spider taxon worthy of behavioral scrutiny.
Behavior, nutrition, and environment drive survival of a large herbivore in the face of extreme winter conditions
Authors: LaSharr Tayler N. , Dwinnell Samantha P. H. , Jakopak Rhiannon P. , Randall Jill , Kaiser Rusty C. , Thonhoff Mark , Scurlock Brandon , Fieseler Troy , Hymas Neil , Hymas Adam , Roberts Nick , Hobbs James , Zornes Mark , Brimeyer Douglas G. , Fralick Gary , Monteith Kevin L.
Published: July 2023

For many species, behavioral modification is an effective strategy to mitigate negative effects of harsh and unpredictable environmental conditions. When behavioral modifications are not sufficient to mitigate extreme environmental conditions, intrinsic factors may be the primary determinant of survival. We investigated how movement behavior, and internal (i.e., nutrition and age) and external (i.e., food availability and snow depth) states affect survival over winter of a long‐lived and highly faithful species (mule deer; Odocoileus hemionus). We first tested whether animals changed their behavior during winter based on internal and external states; we subsequently investigated how behavior and state interacted to influence survival in the face of extraordinary winter conditions. Movement behavior changed minimally as a function of age and nutrition; yet, movement behavior affected survival—animals that exhibited more restricted movements were more likely to succumb to mortality overwinter than animals with less restricted movements. Additionally, nutrition and cumulative snow depth had a strong effect on survival: animals that were exposed to deep snow and began winter with low fat were much less likely to survive. Behavior was an effective tool in securing survival during mild or moderate winters, but nutrition ultimately underpinned survival during harsh winters.
Infrastructure to factorially manipulate the mean and variance of precipitation in the field
Authors: Rudgers Jennifer A. , Luketich Anthony , Bacigalupa Melissa , Baur Lauren E. , Collins Scott L. , Hall Kristofer M. , Hou Enqing , Litvak Marcy E. , Luo Yiqi , Miller Tom E. X. , Newsome Seth D. , Pockman William T. , Richardson Andrew D. , Rinehart Alex , Villatoro‐Castañeda Melissa , Wainwright Brooke E. , Watson Samantha J. , Yogi Purbendra , Zhou Yu
Published: July 2023

Extensive ecological research has investigated extreme climate events or long‐term changes in average climate variables, but changes in year‐to‐year (interannual) variability may also cause important biological responses, even if the mean climate is stable. The environmental stochasticity that is a hallmark of climate variability can trigger unexpected biological responses that include tipping points and state transitions, and large differences in weather between consecutive years can also propagate antecedent effects, in which current biological responses depend on responsiveness to past perturbations. However, most studies to date cannot predict ecological responses to rising variance because the study of interannual variance requires empirical platforms that generate long time series. Furthermore, the ecological consequences of increases in climate variance could depend on the mean climate in complex ways; therefore, effective ecological predictions will require determining responses to both nonstationary components of climate distributions: the mean and the variance. We introduce a new design to resolve the relative importance of, and interactions between, a drier mean climate and greater climate variance, which are dual components of ongoing climate change in the southwestern United States. The Mean × Variance Experiment (MVE) adds two novel elements to prior field infrastructure methods: (1) factorial manipulation of variance together with the climate mean and (2) the creation of realistic, stochastic precipitation regimes. Here, we demonstrate the efficacy of the experimental design, including sensor networks and PhenoCams to automate monitoring. We replicated MVE across ecosystem types at the northern edge of the Chihuahuan Desert biome as a central component of the Sevilleta Long‐Term Ecological Research Program. Soil sensors detected significant treatment effects on both the mean and interannual variability in soil moisture, and PhenoCam imagery captured change in vegetation cover. Our design advances field methods to newly compare the sensitivities of populations, communities, and ecosystem processes to climate mean × variance interactions.
Microclimatic buffering in forest, agricultural, and urban landscapes through the lens of a grass‐feeding insect
Authors: Braem Simon , Crucifix Michel , Nieberding Caroline , Van Dyck Hans
Published: July 2023

For small ectotherm species, dealing with microclimatic variation during sensitive stages of their development is a critical component of their ecological interactions within and among different landscape settings. However, it is often unknown whether the use of habitats in different landscape settings may affect microclimatic conditions at the level of microhabitats (e.g., at host plants for herbivorous insects). As opposed to standard ecological monitoring experiments, we aim to identify the microclimatic variables that accurately represent the environment in which a small arthropod spends most of its life. As a case study, we selected grassy sites that corresponded to the microhabitat of grass‐feeding insects in general, and larvae of the butterfly Pararge aegeria in particular, as this insect recently expanded its habitat use from forest (edges) to agricultural and urban environments. We tested the extent to which local microclimates and microclimatic buffering capacity differed between tufts of grass in forest and in two anthropogenic (i.e., agricultural and urban) landscape settings by measuring microclimatic variables with sensors at the level of the grasses. We compared temperature, relative humidity, and vapor pressure deficit (VPD) during an exceptionally warm and dry summer period with parallel data from weather stations and tested for differences between microclimatic profiles among the three landscape settings. Microclimatic conditions correspond only partly to variables based on weather station data. Differences are particularly significant for relative humidity and VPD, but not for day and night temperatures. Effects of canopy openness on the variability of microclimatic variables are landscape‐specific. Host plants in agricultural settings experience strong microclimatic fluctuations and low short‐term variability in VPD. In urban settings, urban heat island effects increase night temperature but also show microclimatic buffering effects similar to the ones in forest settings. Our findings stress the functional implications of landscape‐specific microclimatic profiles at the appropriate organism‐centered scale. We discuss the significance of such microclimatic profiles for ecological studies dealing with ectotherms under climate and land use change.
Mammalian resistance to megafire in western U.S. woodland savannas
Authors: Calhoun Kendall L. , Goldstein Benjamin R. , Gaynor Kaitlyn M. , McInturff Alex , Solorio Leonel , Brashares Justin S.
Published: July 2023

Increasingly frequent megafires are dramatically altering landscapes and critical habitats around the world. Across the western United States, megafires have become an almost annual occurrence, but the implication of these fires for the conservation of native wildlife remains relatively unknown. Woodland savannas are among the world's most biodiverse ecosystems and provide important food and structural resources to a variety of wildlife, but they are threatened by megafires. Despite this, the great majority of fire impact studies have only been conducted in coniferous forests. Understanding the resistance and resilience of wildlife assemblages following these extreme perturbations can help inform future management interventions that limit biodiversity loss due to megafire. We assessed the resistance of a woodland savanna mammal community to the short‐term impacts of megafire using camera trap data collected before, during, and after the fire. Specifically, we utilized a 5‐year camera trap data set (2016–2020) from the Hopland Research and Extension Center to examine the impacts of the 2018 Mendocino Complex Fire, California's largest recorded wildfire at the time, on the distributions of eight observed mammal species. We used a multispecies occupancy model to quantify the effects of megafire on species' space use, to assess the impact on species size and diet groups, and to create robust estimates of fire's impacts on species diversity across space and time. Megafire had a negative effect on the detection of certain mammal species, but overall, most species showed high resistance to the disturbance and returned to detection and site use levels comparable to unburned sites by the end of the study period. Following megafire, species richness was higher in burned areas that retained higher canopy cover relative to unburned and burned sites with low canopy cover. Fire management that prevents large‐scale canopy loss is critical to providing refugia for vulnerable species immediately following fire in oak woodlands, and likely other mixed‐forest landscapes.
Synchronous long‐term trends in abundance and compositional variability of butterflies in Central Europe
Authors: Ulrich Werner , Schmitt Thomas , Gros Patrick , Trusch Robert , Habel Jan Christian
Published: July 2023

Annual insect abundances are determined by short‐term population fluctuations and long‐term trends in community composition. Any assessment of this temporal variability needs long‐term quantitative data on abundances. Here we use museum data (1940–2017) of butterflies and burnet moths from southwestern Germany and central Austria comprising 220,758 records from 155 species, and 55,641 records from 170 species, respectively. We ask whether population fluctuations and long‐term population trends are spatially synchronized across larger spatial distances (>300 km) according to the Moran effect, and whether common trends in community composition and stability exist? Population fluctuations of 85.5% of species jointly occurring in both study regions were positively correlated (mean r = 0.30 ± 0.03). Comparing different time windows, we found different sets of species being in spatial synchrony reflecting temporal changes in butterfly community composition. Mesophilic, habitat generalist, and dispersive species were significantly more synchronized than xerothermophilic, habitat specialist, and sedentary species. Long‐distance travelers were particularly synchronized. In both study regions, species rank orders became less even with time. Stability in community composition increased with time with an ongoing trend to faunal homogenization, but not to species loss. Our study points to global and not to local drivers behind trends in butterfly population fluctuations and compositional stability, in the present case to altered land use and urbanization as major drivers toward synchrony and homogenization. Finally, our data have implications for conservation strategies as they strongly indicate that natural landscape structures are associated with higher faunal compositional variability in comparison to agricultural and urban landscapes.
Application of SNPs with low minor allele frequencies in missing person identification (MPI) through kinship analysis of DNA mixtures
Authors: Zhang Nan , Shi Shanshan , Lin Shaobin , Bai Zhaochen , Ling Xiaohua , Gao Jun , Yan Ruiling , Ou Xueling
Published: July 2023

The need to identify a missing person (MP) through kinship analysis of DNA samples found at a crime scene has become increasingly prevalent. DNA samples from MPs can be severely degraded, contain little DNA and mixed with other contributors, which often makes it difficult to apply conventional methods in practice. This study developed a massively parallel sequencing–based panel that contains 1661 single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) with low minor allele frequencies (MAFs) (averaged at 0.0613) in the Chinese Han population, and the strategy for relationship inference from DNA mixtures comprising different numbers of contributors (NOCs) and of varying allele dropout probabilities. Based on the simulated dataset and genotyping results of 42 artificial DNA mixtures (NOC = 2–4), it was observed that the present SNP panel was sufficient for balanced mixtures when referenced to the closest relatives (parents/offspring and full siblings). When the mixture profiles suffered from dropout, incorrect assignments were markedly associated with relatedness, NOC and the dropout level. We, therefore, indicate that SNPs with low MAFs could be reliably interpreted for MP identification through the kinship analysis of complex DNA mixtures. Further studies should be extended to more possible scenarios to test the feasibility of this present approach.
The effect of spirulina sauce on glycemic index, lipid profile, and oxidative stress in type 2 diabetic patients: A randomized double‐blind clinical trial
Authors: Rezaiyan Mojtaba , Sasani Najmeh , Kazemi Asma , Mohsenpour Mohammad Ali , Babajafari Siavash , Mazloomi Seyed Mohammad , Clark Cain C. T. , Hematyar Javad , Ghaem Far Zohreh , Azadian Mohsen , Zareifard Alireza
Published: July 2023

We aimed to evaluate the effect of spirulina sauce on glycemic indices, lipid profile, oxidative stress markers, and anthropometric measurement in type 2 diabetic patients. Forty patients were randomly assigned to receive 20 g/day spirulina sauce (containing 2 g of spirulina) or placebo for 2 months. Anthropometric and biochemical indices were measured at the beginning and end of the intervention. Fasting blood glucose (mean difference (MD): −15.3 mg/dL, 95% confidence (CI): −44.2 to 13.60, p = .26), HbA1c (MD: 0.13%, 95% CI: −0.83 to 0.57, p = .75), insulin (MD: −1.46 μIU/mL, 95% CI: −4.0 to 1.09, p = .28), and HOMA‐IR (MD: −0.35, 95% CI: −2.0 to 1.32, p = .68) did not change significantly between groups. QUICKI increased significantly (MD: 0.025, 95% CI: 0.006 to 0.045, p = .03). Among the lipid profile, triglyceride (TG) (MD: −68.6 mg/dL, 95% CI: −107.21 to −29.98, p < .001), total cholesterol (MD: −29.55 mg/dL, 95% CI: −55.28 to −3.81, p = .02), and LDL (MD: −17.7 mg/dL, 95% CI: −33.24 to −2.15, p = .01) were significantly decreased in the spirulina group compared to the control; whereas, the change in HDL was non‐significant. No significant change was observed in body composition and anthropometric measurements, except waist circumference, which was reduced (MD: −2.65 cm, 95% CI: −3.91 to −1.38, p = .001). Hunger index significantly decreased and fullness increased marginally significantly. Although malondialdehyde was significantly reduced, no change was observed in total antioxidant capacity (TAC). Spirulina sauce was not effective for glycemic control in type 2 diabetes; however, could be useful for controlling appetite and ameliorating lipid profile.
Recent updates in the indolent lymphomas: Update on marginal zone lymphoma and Waldenström's macroglobulinemia
Authors: Amaador Karima , Thieblemont Catherine , Trotman Judith , Minnema Monique C.
Published: July 2023

Marginal Zone Lymphoma (MZL) and Waldenström's Macroglobulinemia (WM) are indolent lymphomas that both arise from post germinal center lymphocytes. Both can secrete a monoclonal protein but high levels are mostly only seen in WM. The MYD88 L256P somatic mutation that is present in an estimated 95% of patients with WM has helped greatly in differentiating the two lymphomas. Several large clinical studies with new drugs have been performed that have provided new treatment options for both MZL and WM patients. In this short review we will discuss the recent literature published and provide some recommendations.
Direct ink writing of metal‐based electrocatalysts for Li–S batteries with efficient polysulfide conversion
Authors: Meng Ting , Geng Zeyu , Ma Fei , Wang Xiaohan , Zhang Haifeng , Guan Cao
Published: July 2023

Thanks to the significantly higher energy density compared with universal commercialized Li‐ion batteries, lithium–sulfur (Li–S) batteries are being investigated for use in prospective energy storage devices. However, the inadequate electrochemical kinetics of reactants and intermediates hinder commercial utilization. This limitation results in substantial capacity degradation and short battery lifespans, thereby impeding the battery's power export. Meanwhile, the capacity attenuation induced by the undesirable shuttle effect further hinders their industrialization. Considerable effort has been invested in developing electrocatalysts to fix lithium polysulfides and boost their conversion effectively. In the conventional process, the planar electrodes are prepared by slurry‐casting, which limits the electron and ion transfer paths, especially when the thickness of the electrodes is relatively large. Compared with traditional manufacturing methods, direct ink writing (DIW) technology offers unique advantages in both geometry shaping and rapid prototyping, and even complex three‐dimensional structures with high sulfur loading. Hence, this review presents a detailed description of the current developments in terms of Li–S batteries in DIW of metal‐based electrocatalysts. A thorough exploration of the behavior chemistry of electrocatalysis is provided, and the adhibition of metal‐based catalysts used for Li–S batteries is summarized from the aspect of material usage and performance enhancement. Then, the working principle of DIW technology and the requirements of used inks are presented, with a detailed focus on the latest advancements in DIW of metal‐based catalysts in Li–S battery systems. Their challenges and prospects are discussed to guide their future development.
Ramucirumab beyond progression plus TAS‐102 in patients with advanced or metastatic esophagogastric adenocarcinoma, after treatment failure on a ramucirumab‐based therapy
Authors: Goetze Thorsten Oliver , Stein Alexander , Lorenzen Sylvie , Habibzada Timorshah , Goekkurt Eray , Herhaus Peter , Loose Maria , Sookthai Disorn , Brulin Tanita , Ihrig Kristina , Pauligk Claudia , Al‐Batran Salah‐Eddin
Published: July 2023

Based on results of prior trials (TAGS, REGARD, RAINBOW), the combination of ramucirumab beyond progression with TAS‐102 (trifluridine/tipiracil) seems to be promising in advanced esophagogastric adenocarcinoma (EGA). In this multicenter, non‐randomized, open‐label, investigator‐initiated pilot trial, ramucirumab‐pretreated patients with metastatic EGA received a maximum of 4 cycles of ramucirumab (8 mg/kg i.v. on day 1 and 15, Q2W) plus TAS‐102 (35 mg/m2 p.o. bid on day 1‐5 and day 8‐12; Q2W). Primary endpoint was tolerability and toxicity, defining a positive trial if the SAE rate according to CTCAE 5.0 will increase <30% (up to 55%) compared to historical results from TAGS trial (SAE rate 43%). Secondary endpoints were further evaluation of safety and assessment of efficacy according to tumor response and overall and progression‐free survival (OS/PFS). Twenty patients, 20% gastric and 80% GEJ cancers and 55% with ECOG 0 were enrolled. In total, nine SAEs were reported in 25% [95% CI: 8.7‐49.1] of the patients, all without relationship to the systemic therapy. The median OS and PFS were 9.1 months [5.4‐10.1] and 2.9 months [1.7‐4.8], respectively. In addition, a disease control rate of 45% was obtained. The trial showed a favorable safety profile with a numerically lower incidence of SAEs for the combination of ramucirumab with TAS‐102 compared to historical TAGS trial. Furthermore, the combination demonstrated efficacy in the beyond progression setting and therefore warrants further evaluation in a randomized trial compared to TAS‐102 alone.
Corporate risk disclosure and cost of capital: Does measurement matter?
Authors: Ibrahim Awad Elsayed Awad , Aboud Ahmed
Published: July 2023

This study argues that different definitions/perceptions of risk information could affect investors' decisions differently. Using a sample of 328 non‐financial UK firms and departing from existing literature, this study measures corporate risk disclosure (RD) via computerized content analysis to capture four different perspectives of defining RD. This study investigates (i) the effects of these RD measures on the Cost of Capital (COC), (ii) the influence of analysts' coverage on the relationship between RD and COC, and (iii) whether the RD nature (favourable/unfavourable) might affect COC differently. Lenders and equity holders are found not to consider any risk information expressed as a variation around a target, while only lenders consider risk information that reveals negative outcomes. However, lenders and equity holders consider risk information that expresses negative and positive outcomes together. Besides, firms that disclose extra risk information and have a large analyst following suffer from a higher Cost of Equity (COE) compared with those with fewer analysts following. Additionally, lenders impose a lower interest rate on firms with a higher unfavourable RD, while equity holders ask for lower returns from the firms with a higher favourable RD. The study has significant implications for capital market participants, researchers, and policymakers.
The impact of the war in Ukraine on the reproductive health of female military personnel
Authors: Serbeniuk Anastasia , Kaminskiy Viacheslav , Kumpanenko Yana , Vash‐Margita Alla , Malysheva Iryna
Published: July 2023

Objective

To explore the link between mental health, physical well‐being, and reproductive system pathology in females who suffered war‐related concussions.

Methods

A study was conducted at the Kyiv Center of Reproductive and Perinatal Medicine with 715 participants. The group included 457 female military personnel with concussions (211 with post‐concussive syndrome (PCS), 246 without), 208 women from occupied/deoccupied areas (103 with PCS, 105 without), and 50 civilians from safe zones. Average deployment time (mean ± standard deviation) was 60.26 ± 42.21 months, and trauma occurred 18.81 ± 9.221 months ago. Medical history and physical examinations were performed.

Results

Female soldiers with PCS had a 1.3 times higher likelihood (P < 0.015) of experiencing longer menstrual periods. Painful menstruation was 1.47 times more frequent (P < 0.001), and heavy periods were 1.64 times more common (P < 0.003). Infertility duration in concussed women was 5.36 ± 0.13 years, whereas those with PCS experienced 1.29 times longer duration (6.02 ± 0.21 years) (P < 0.001) compared with women without PCS (4.69 ± 0.13 years). Among concussed soldiers, 69.27% had endometrial structural pathology, with PCS occurring 1.64 times more often (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

The health decline in female veterans and active‐duty personnel extends beyond medical implications and has social significance. The well‐being of these Ukrainian women affects the country's defense, demographic patterns, socio‐political landscape, and social stability.
Plant pathogenesis: Toward multidimensional understanding of the microbiome
Authors: Lv Tianxing , Zhan Chengfang , Pan Qianqian , Xu Haorong , Fang Hongda , Wang Mengcen , Matsumoto Haruna
Published: July 2023

Single pathogen‐targeted disease management measure has shown drawbacks in field efficacy under the scenario of global change. An in‐depth understanding of plant pathogenesis will provide a promising solution but faces the challenges of the emerging paradigm involving the plant microbiome. While the beneficial impact of the plant microbiome is well characterized, their potential role in facilitating pathological processes has so far remained largely overlooked. To address these unsolved controversies and emerging challenges, we hereby highlight the pathobiome, the disease‐assisting portion hidden in the plant microbiome, in the plant pathogenesis paradigm. We review the detrimental actions mediated by the pathobiome at multiple scales and further discuss how natural and human triggers result in the prevalence of the plant pathobiome, which would probably provide a clue to the mitigation of plant disease epidemics. Collectively, the article would advance the current insight into plant pathogenesis and also pave a new way to cope with the upward trends of plant disease by designing the pathobiome‐targeted measure.
Concurrent administration of farnesol protects acetaminophen‐induced acute hepatic necrosis in mice
Authors: Gayatri Devi Ramalingam , Ezhilarasan Devaraj
Published: July 2023

Acetaminophen (APAP) is known to cause acute liver injury and acute liver failure in Western countries. This study investigates the protective role of farnesol (FAR) (C15H26O), a natural sesquiterpene alcohol in essential oils, against APAP‐induced acute liver necrosis in mice. Mice were injected with a single dose of APAP (300 mg/kg) via an intraperitoneal route. Different groups of mice were concurrently treated with a single dose of FAR 25 mg/kg, FAR 50 mg/kg, and N‐acetylcysteine. APAP administration caused a significant increase in transaminase activities and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels in the serum and liver tissue, respectively, with a concomitant decrease in intracellular antioxidants, including reduced glutathione (GSH) in the liver tissue. APAP intoxication upregulated proinflammatory cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor‐α, interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β), IL‐6, nuclear factor‐κB (NF‐κB), and IκB kinase β in the liver tissue. FAR and N‐acetylcysteine (NAC) administrations concurrently with APAP prevented serum transaminase increase in serum and MDA levels in the liver tissue. A high dose of FAR and NAC treatments significantly inhibited GSH and other antioxidant depletion. FAR and NAC treatments also downregulated the expression of proinflammatory markers. FAR treatments protects against APAP‐induced acute liver injury and offers antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory effects by inhibiting the NF‐κB pathway involved in the transcription of genes responsible for inflammatory cytokine synthesis.
New findings about comparing the effects of antibiotic therapy and phage therapy on memory and hippocampal pyramidal cells in rats
Authors: Darbandi Niloufar , Komijani Majid , Tajiani Zahra
Published: July 2023

Background

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a significant cause of infection in burn wounds. Antibiotics are widely used to treat infectious diseases, and alongside their therapeutic benefits, they can damage host cells. Significant side effects, such as nephrotoxicity and neurotoxicity, are observed in 60% of patients treated with colistin. Therefore, using a suitable alternative instead of antibiotics is paramount. This study aimed to investigate the effects of phage therapy and antibiotic therapy on memory function in rats with P. aeruginosa infected burn wounds.

Methods

Adult male rats were divided into three groups: (1) infected without treatment (control), (2) infected and treated with colistin antibiotic (3,000,000 international units/kg/day), and (3) infected and treated with 100 μL of phage suspension (approximately 109 PFU/mL). In all animals, after anesthesia, a third‐degree burn was created in the back area. One hour later, treatment was performed for seven consecutive days. Passive avoidance test, novel object recognition test, locomotion activity, hippocampal neuron count, and oxidative stress measurement in blood serum were performed.

Results

In antibiotic‐treated group memory recall, recognition index, number of healthy neurons in CA1, CA2, and CA3 hippocampus areas and the amounts of MDA, and FRAP significantly decreased compared with the control group. The phage‐treated group was not shown any harmful effect on the memory process, number of healthy hippocampal neurons, and showed more positive effects in blood serum examinations compared with the antibiotic group.

Conclusions

Phage therapy could be a safe and effective alternative to antibiotics in the treatment of burn‐related infections.
Succinic semialdehyde dehydrogenase deficiency in mice and in humans: An untargeted metabolomics perspective
Authors: Peters Tessa M. A. , Engelke Udo F. H. , de Boer Siebolt , Reintjes Joris T. G. , Roullet Jean‐Baptiste , Broekman Sanne , de Vrieze Erik , van Wijk Erwin , Wamelink Mirjam M. C. , Artuch Rafael , Barić Ivo , Merx Jona , Boltje Thomas J. , Martens Jonathan , Willemsen Michèl A. A. P. , Verbeek Marcel M. , Wevers Ron A. , Gibson K. Michael , Coene Karlien L. M.
Published: July 2023

Succinic semialdehyde dehydrogenase deficiency (SSADHD) is a rare neurometabolic disorder caused by disruption of the gamma‐aminobutyric acid (GABA) pathway. A more detailed understanding of its pathophysiology, beyond the accumulation of GABA and gamma‐hydroxybutyric acid (GHB), will increase our understanding of the disease and may support novel therapy development. To this end, we compared biochemical body fluid profiles from SSADHD patients with controls using next‐generation metabolic screening (NGMS). Targeted analysis of NGMS data from cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) showed a moderate increase of aspartic acid, glutaric acid, glycolic acid, 4‐guanidinobutanoic acid, and 2‐hydroxyglutaric acid, and prominent elevations of GHB and 4,5‐dihydroxyhexanoic acid (4,5‐DHHA) in SSADHD samples. Remarkably, the intensities of 4,5‐DHHA and GHB showed a significant positive correlation in control CSF, but not in patient CSF. In an established zebrafish epilepsy model, 4,5‐DHHA showed increased mobility that may reflect limited epileptogenesis. Using untargeted metabolomics, we identified 12 features in CSF with high biomarker potential. These had comparable increased fold changes as GHB and 4,5‐DHHA. For 10 of these features, a similar increase was found in plasma, urine and/or mouse brain tissue for SSADHD compared to controls. One of these was identified as the novel biomarker 4,5‐dihydroxyheptanoic acid. The intensities of selected features in plasma and urine of SSADHD patients positively correlated with the clinical severity score of epilepsy and psychiatric symptoms of those patients, and also showed a high mutual correlation. Our findings provide new insights into the (neuro)metabolic disturbances in SSADHD and give leads for further research concerning SSADHD pathophysiology.
Detection of microplastic samples based on spatial heterodyne microscopic differential Raman spectroscopy
Authors: Yang Hui , Xue Qingsheng , Lu Fengqin , Dong Yang , Wang Fupeng , Li Qian
Published: July 2023

As a new global pollutant, microplastics have been widely a concern in recent years. The traditional microplastic detection technology has the disadvantages of weak signal, high cost, and complicated operation. Therefore, this paper designs and builds a set of spatial heterodyne microscopic differential Raman spectroscopy (SHMDRS) system for microplastic detection. The system combines the spatial heterodyne system (SHS) with the microscopic differential Raman system (MDRS). The system was simulated and designed by ZEMAX software, and the SHMDRS system was built on the experimental platform. The 531.742‐ and 532.567‐nm dual‐wavelength lasers were used as the excitation light source. Four kinds of microplastic samples, namely, PS, PC, PP, and HDPE, were tested to verify the feasibility of the system. Under the integration time of 10 s and the laser power of 200 mW, the microplastic samples were detected by the SHMDRS system and dispersive spectrometer, respectively. The signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR) of Raman spectra of different systems was compared and calculated. The differential Raman spectra of four kinds of microplastic samples were obtained by dual‐wavelength laser, and the pure Raman spectra of four kinds of microplastic samples were restored by multiple constrained iterative algorithm. The results show that the spectral resolution of the SHMDRS system is 2.809 cm−1, and the spectral range is 255.47–2023.21 cm−1. The SNRs of the Raman spectra obtained by the SHMDRS system are better than those of the dispersive spectrometer, and the differential Raman spectroscopy can effectively remove the interference of the fluorescence background. This method has a good development prospect.
Polarization Detection of Terahertz Waves using All‐Silicon Metasurfaces with Tightly Focusing Behavior
Authors: Li Hui , Zheng Chenglong , Duan Shouxin , Li Jie , Xu Hang , Li Yifan , Song Chunyu , Yang Fan , Yue Zhen , Shi Wei , Zhang Yating , Shen Yun , Yao Jianquan
Published: July 2023

The manipulation of polarization states is reflected in the tailoring of light–matter interactions and has great applications in fundamental science. Nevertheless, the conventional polarization‐separated detection behavior in the terahertz (THz) band is very challenging when applied to visualize the incident polarization state since its measurement requires sophisticated instrumentation. Here, the feasibility of its reconstruction of the full‐Stokes parameter matrix in the THz band is explored by establishing an all‐silicon decoupled metasurface based on the polarization multiplexing encoding technique. The pixelated focal spots gathered in the target plane allow us to employ more elaborate methods to extract the characteristic parameters of the incident polarization states. The resolvability of the THz polarization detection behavior with a single focal spot is further optimized benefiting from the longitudinal polarization component (Ez) generated by the tightly focused beam in the propagation direction. The capability of the Ez‐component in determining the key parameters that compose the polarization ellipse is evaluated by predefining the random incident polarization on a standard Poincaré sphere. Thus, the proposed scheme offers significant advantages in future THz communications, providing opportunities for ultra‐compact, high‐resolution full‐Stokes polarization imaging and multidimensional information processing.
Contribution of Indigenous Peoples' understandings and relational frameworks to invasive alien species management
Authors: Wehi Priscilla M. , Kamelamela Katie L. , Whyte Kyle , Watene Krushil , Reo Nicholas
Published: July 2023

Introduced species that spread and become invasive are recognised as a major threat to global biological diversity, ecosystem resilience and economic stability. Eradication is often a default conservation management strategy even when it may not be feasible for a variety of reasons. Assessment of the substantive socioeconomic and ecological impacts of invasive alien species (IAS), both negative and positive, is increasingly viewed as an important step in management.

We argue that one solution to IAS management is to align models of alien species management with Indigenous management frameworks that are relational and biocultural. We make the theoretical case that centring Indigenous management frameworks promises to strengthen overall management responses and outcomes because they attend directly to human and environmental justice concerns.

We unpack the origins of the ‘introduced species paradigm’ to understand how binary framing of so‐called ‘aliens’ and ‘natives’ recalls harmful histories and alienates Indigenous stewardship. Such a paradigm thereby may limit application of Indigenous frameworks and management, and impede long‐term biodiversity protection solutions.

We highlight how biocultural practices applied by Indigenous Peoples to IAS centre protecting relationships, fulfilling responsibilities and realising justice.

Finally, we argue for a pluralistic vision that acknowledges multiple alternative Indigenous relationships and responses to introduced and IAS which can contribute to vibrant futures where all elements of society, including kin in the natural world, are able to flourish.

Read the freePlain Language Summaryfor this article on the Journal blog.
Children's Oncology Group's 2023 blueprint for research: Rare tumors
Authors: Schultz Kris Ann P. , Chintagumpala Murali , Piao Jin , Chen Kenneth S. , Gartrell Robyn , Christison‐Lagay Emily , Berry Jesse L. , Shah Rachana , Laetsch Theodore W. ,   the Children's Oncology Group Rare Tumor Committee
Published: July 2023

The Children's Oncology Group (COG) Rare Tumor Committee includes the Infrequent Tumor and Retinoblastoma subcommittees, encompassing a wide range of extracranial solid tumors that do not fall within another COG disease committee. Current therapeutic trial development focuses on nasopharyngeal carcinoma, adrenocortical carcinoma, pleuropulmonary blastoma, colorectal carcinoma, melanoma, and thyroid carcinoma. Given the rarity of these tumors, novel strategies and international collaborative efforts are necessary to advance research and improve outcomes.
Thermo‐mechanical property enhancement of rigid polyurethane foam using silica and alumina as hybrid fillers over single filler
Authors: Polimera Srihith , Gali A. , Nath Susanta Kumar , Rahaman Ariful , Chandan Mohammed Rehaan , Balakumaran S. J.
Published: July 2023

Silica and alumina particles were loaded in the rigid polyurethane foam composite as hybrid fillers. After the successful addition of silica and alumina as fillers, various properties of the foam composite were enhanced up to a particular weight percentage (7.5 wt% of silica and alumina each) with respect to alumina loaded foams. Hard urea domains are well distributed in the urethane matrix which indicates the absence of the peak representing H‐bonded urea in the Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy results. The addition of hybrid fillers into the rigid polyurethane foam matrix improved the compressive strength of the foam composite by 14% in comparison to alumina loaded foams due to the synergistic effect of the hybrid fillers. The foam composite at 7.5 wt% loading of hybrid fillers was successful in decreasing the thermal conductivity by 9% with respect to the thermal conductivity of the unloaded foam. There was a reduction in the gross calorific value up to 7% in the hybrid filler loaded foam composite when compared with that of the alumina loaded composite. Hence, hybrid fillers should be added to enhance the composite's properties by a greater extent.

Highlights

From the compressive test results, an increase in the compressive strength up to 14% was observed in the samples loaded with hybrid fillers with respect to the samples loaded with alumina due to the synergistic effects of the two fillers.

For the foam composite loaded with alumina, the gross calorific value decreased up to 6% when compared to the unloaded foam. The gross calorific value decreased by a further 7% when hybrid fillers were added to the polyurethane foam composite with respect to the alumina loaded foam composite. The foam composite loaded with 7.5 weight % of hybrid fillers had lower values of thermal conductivity when compared with that of the unloaded polyurethane foam.

We propose the addition of both alumina and silica as hybrid filler particles as they enhanced the various properties of the polyurethane foam composite to a greater extent than the addition of alumina particles as a single filler and have potential to replace unloaded polyurethane foams in different applications.
Body image and hopelessness in older adults: The intervening roles of aging self‐stereotypes and marital status
Authors: Lin Yao , Xu Nawei , Zhang Baoshan
Published: July 2023

The aim of the current study was to examine the association between body image and hopelessness as well as the roles of aging self‐stereotypes and marital status in this association in older adults. There were 821 older adults who participated in the present study and completed questionaries about body image, aging self‐stereotypes, hopelessness, demographic information (age and sex), marital status, and health status. The results showed that body image was associated with hopelessness in older adults, and aging self‐stereotypes mediated the link between body image and hopelessness. Moderated analyses further indicated that the path from body image to aging self‐stereotypes was stronger for single older adults than for those who were married. The results emphasize that older adults' dissatisfaction with their body image can enhance negative aging self‐stereotypes, which then result in more severe hopelessness. Marital relationships can alleviate the negative effect of body image on aging self‐stereotypes in older adults.