bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Thermostability enhancement of polyethylene terephthalate degrading PETase using self‐ and nonself‐ligating protein scaffolding approaches
Authors: Sana Barindra , Ding Ke , Siau Jia Wei , Pasula Rupali Reddy , Chee Sharon , Kharel Sharad , Lena Jean‐Baptise Henri , Goh Eunice , Rajamani Lakshminarayanan , Lam Yeng Ming , Lim Sierin , Ghadessy John F.
Published: August 2023

Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) hydrolase enzymes show promise for enzymatic PET degradation and green recycling of single‐use PET vessels representing a major source of global pollution. Their full potential can be unlocked with enzyme engineering to render activities on recalcitrant PET substrates commensurate with cost‐effective recycling at scale. Thermostability is a highly desirable property in industrial enzymes, often imparting increased robustness and significantly reducing quantities required. To date, most engineered PET hydrolases show improved thermostability over their parental enzymes. Here, we report engineered thermostable variants of Ideonella sakaiensis PET hydrolase enzyme (IsPETase) developed using two scaffolding strategies. The first employed SpyCatcher‐SpyTag technology to covalently cyclize IsPETase, resulting in increased thermostability that was concomitant with reduced turnover of PET substrates compared to native IsPETase. The second approach using a GFP‐nanobody fusion protein (vGFP) as a scaffold yielded a construct with a melting temperature of 80°C. This was further increased to 85°C when a thermostable PETase variant (FAST PETase) was scaffolded into vGFP, the highest reported so far for an engineered PET hydrolase derived from IsPETase. Thermostability enhancement using the vGFP scaffold did not compromise activity on PET compared to IsPETase. These contrasting results highlight potential topological and dynamic constraints imposed by scaffold choice as determinants of enzyme activity.
Industry 5.0 and the future of sustainable manufacturing: A systematic literature review
Authors: Narkhede Ganesh , Pasi Bhaveshkumar , Rajhans Neela , Kulkarni Atul
Published: August 2023

Industry 5.0 (I5.0) is all set to come into the limelight when Industry 4.0 (I4.0) has not yet fully matured and still gaining ground in growing economies. The general notion of I5.0 is discussed in the existing literature on the subject domain, but there are no adequate studies in the literature that examine its implications. Therefore, systematic literature review method is adopted to: explore the understanding of I5.0; identify the opportunities for I5.0; highlight the challenges in I5.0 implementation; investigate the effects of I5.0 on economic, environmental, and social pillars of sustainability; and propose a framework for effective implementation of I5.0 concept in manufacturing enterprises. This article aims to stand on an unbiased assessment to ascertain the landscape occupied by I5.0 and the results of the comprehensive review offer insightful conclusions. I5.0 represents a paradigm shift that emphasizes the integration of advanced technologies with human‐centric approaches. This paper critically analyzes the key pillars and highlights the potential to enhance sustainability in manufacturing. Furthermore, the implications of I5.0 for sustainable manufacturing practices are explored. The paper also investigates its potential to address environmental concerns and promote eco‐friendly manufacturing practices. The findings provide valuable insights for policymakers, industry leaders, and technology providers in implementing sustainable manufacturing practices on their I5.0 journey. In addition, the proposed I5.0 framework will serve as a basis for further investigations on how to apply the concept of I5.0 in other sectors.
Conventional and assisted suicide in Switzerland: Insights into a divergent development based on cancer‐associated self‐initiated deaths
Authors: Güth Uwe , Junker Christoph , Elger Bernice Simone , Elfgen Constanze , Montagna Giacomo , Schneeberger Andres R.
Published: August 2023

Background

We tested the hypothesis of supporters of assisted dying that assisted suicide (AS) might be able to prevent cases of conventional suicide (CS).

Methods

By using data from the Federal Statistical Office, we analyzed the long‐term development of 30,756 self‐initiated deaths in Switzerland over a 20‐year period (1999–2018; CS: n = 22,018, AS: n = 8738), focusing on people suffering from cancer who died from AS or CS.

Results

While cancer was the most often listed principal disease for AS (n = 3580, 41.0% of AS cases), cancer was listed in only a small minority of CS cases (n = 832, 3.8% of CS cases). There was a significant increase in the absolute number of cancer‐associated AS cases: comparing four 5‐year periods, there was approximately a doubling of cases every 5 years (1999–2003: n = 228 vs.2004–2008: n = 474, +108% compared with the previous period; 2009–2013: n = 920, +94%; 2014–2018: n = 1958, +113%). The ratio of cancer‐associated AS in relationship with all cancer‐associated deaths increased over time to 2.3% in the last observation period (2014–2018). In parallel, the numbers of cancer‐associated CS showed a downward trend only at the beginning of the observation period (1999–2003, n = 240 vs. 2004–2008, n = 199, −17%). Thereafter, the number of cases remained stable in the subsequent 5‐year period (2009–2013, n = 187, −6%), and increased again toward the most recent period (2014–2018, n = 206, +10%).

Conclusion

The assumption that, with the increasingly accessible option of AS for patients with cancer, CS suicide will become “superfluous” cannot be confirmed. There are strong reasons indicating that situations and circumstances of cancer‐associated CS are different from those for cancer‐associated AS.
Treatment stratification and prognosis assessment using circulating tumor DNA in locally advanced rectal cancer: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Mi Junjie , Wang Rong , Han Xiaofang , Ma Ruijun , Zhao Danyu
Published: August 2023

Background

Circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) is an emerging biomarker for locally advanced rectal cancer (LARC), giving hope for stratified treatment. As the completed studies have small sample sizes and different experimental methods, systematic review and meta‐analysis were performed to explore their role in predicting pathological complete response (pCR), tumor recurrence, and prognosis.

Methods

PubMed, Embase, and the Web of Science were searched for potentially eligible studies published up to September 6, 2022. Pooled relative risk (RR) was calculated to predict pCR and tumor recurrence, and pooled hazard ratio (HR) was calculated to evaluate the prognosis of overall survival (OS), recurrence‐free survival (RFS), and metastasis‐free survival (MRS).

Results

Twelve studies published between 2018 and 2022 included 931 patients, and 2544 serum samples were eventually included in the meta‐analysis. The pooled revealed that ctDNA‐negative patients were more likely to have a pCR (RR = 1.64, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.26–2.12). The pooled revealed that ctDNA‐positive patients were at high risk of recurrence (RR = 3.37, 95% CI: 2.34–4.85) and had a poorer prognosis for OS (HR = 3.03, 95% CI: 1.86–4.95), RFS (HR = 7.08, 95% CI: 4.12–12.14), and MRS (HR = 2.77, 95% CI: 2.01–3.83).

Conclusion

ctDNA may be useful for stratifying treatment and assessing prognosis in patients with LARC, but its clinical application still needs to be confirmed in a prospective multicenter study with large samples.
Management and prognosis of a vital cracked tooth by occlusal veneer for 14 months: A case report
Authors: Wang Mengke , Hong Yingying , Hou Xiaomei , Pu Yinfei
Published: August 2023

Key Clinical Message

An occlusal veneer is an ultrathin restoration method and a minimally invasive approach that can preserve more dental tissue and provide better aesthetic outcomes, thus increasing patient satisfaction.

An occlusal veneer is an ultrathin restoration method and a minimally invasive approach that can preserve more dental tissue and provide better aesthetic outcomes, thus increasing patient satisfaction; however, no previous studies reported on treating cracked teeth using occlusal veneer. Accordingly, we described the diagnosis and treatment process of a cracked tooth using occlusal veneer in a single case. A 29‐year‐old male presented at our dental clinic complaining of biting pain in the mandibular molar on the right‐hand side. A routine oral examination with radiography was performed to evaluate the oral condition and treatment planning. The #16 tooth had a crack line surrounding the whole distal–lingual cusp from the occlusal surface. After discussing various therapeutic options with the patient, an occlusal veneer was performed. One week after treatment with occlusal veneer, the patient had no complaints. A 14‐month follow‐up showed promising clinical and radiographic outcomes. Occlusal veneer is an alternative treatment option for a cracked tooth, as it can preserve more dental tissue and potentially save pulp vitality.
Management of a giant pleomorphic adenoma of the soft palate: A case report
Authors: Nnko Kanankira A. , Rwakatema Deogratius S. , Mariki Jackson M. , Baraka Calvin J. , Pima Raphael T. , Damas Sosthenes , Mremi Alex
Published: August 2023

Key Clinical Message

Benign mixed salivary gland tumor is comprised of epithelial and myoepithelial cells and represents up to 80% of tumors of the parotid gland. It is relatively rare in the soft palate and in other minor salivary glands. Surgery is the standard care.

Salivary gland tumors are relatively rare and morphologically diverse group of lesions. Pleomorphic adenoma (PA) is the most common salivary gland tumor, accounting for approximately 80% of all major and minor salivary gland tumors. PA usually affects the parotid gland. Huge PA occurring in soft palate is extremely rare. Patients with these tumors are usually between at the age of 40 and 60 years. The tumors exhibit pleomorphic nature microscopically that may pose diagnostic challenges to pathologists as may confuse PA histopathologically with other salivary gland tumors. Surgery is the standard treatment. The purpose of writing this case study is to describe unusual case of a giant PA of the soft palate found in a 44‐year‐old male successfully managed at our facility.
Flow Pattern and Mixing Performance of a Dynamic Impinging Stream Reactor
Authors: Zhang Jianwei , Zhang Zhongchuang , Xu Rui , Feng Ying , Dong Xin
Published: August 2023

The mixing process of a dynamic impinging stream reactor was measured by planar laser induced fluorescence. The fluid flow pattern and mixing characteristics were studied under different conditions. The flow field was divided into the following regions by flow pattern: free jet region, impingement region, radial jet region, and radial vortex region. The mixing characteristics were analyzed under different operational conditions. The mixing time first decreased and then increased with increasing nozzle spacing. The mixing time decreased with increasing outlet velocity difference and outlet average velocity, and the optimal working conditions were nozzle spacing L = 4d, where d is nozzle diameter, outlet velocity difference vd = 1 m s−1, and outlet average velocity vp = 1.7 m s−1.
Elucidating the Influence of Intercalated Anions in NiFe LDH on the Electrocatalytic Behavior of OER: A Kinetic Study
Authors: Berger Maike , Popa Ioana M. , Negahdar Leila , Palkovits Stefan , Kaufmann Bastian , Pilaski Moritz , Hoster Harry , Palkovits Regina
Published: August 2023

The oxygen evolution reaction (OER) as one half‐cell reaction of electrochemical water splitting has a fundamental impact on water splitting efficiency and thus on the competitiveness of electrochemically generated hydrogen in the energy market. Nickel‐iron layered double hydroxides (NiFe LDH) are among the most promising electrocatalysts for efficient OER under alkaline conditions. Despite intensive research, correlations of the material properties and the resulting kinetically limiting surface processes are poorly investigated. This work focuses on the kinetic behavior of NiFe LDH catalysts containing different anions in the basal spacing in alkaline OER. Steady‐state Tafel plots, impedance measurements as well as reaction order plots were used to elucidate differences in the catalytic performance. All catalysts showed a dual Tafel behavior and fractional reaction orders. For kinetic modelling, the physisorbed hydrogen peroxide mechanism and Temkin adsorption model were adopted to fit experimental data. Our study showed that the intercalated anions affect the kinetics of rate determining steps. The hypophosphite intercalated LDH possessed the highest OER activity and the first step as rate determining. While for both carbonate and borate intercalated NiFe LDH, the second step proved to be rate determining in the low Tafel region, while the first step was found to be rate‐limiting in the high Tafel region.
What tool do undergraduate pharmacy students prefer when grading systematic review evidence: AMSTAR‐2 or ROBIS?
Authors: Lee Shaun W. H.
Published: August 2023

Introduction

While systematic reviews (SRs) are considered the highest form of evidence in the hierarchy, the quality and standard of reviews varies. Two quality assessment tools have been developed to assess the variation in such standards. This study compared the preference, validity, reliability, and applicability of using A Measurement Tool to Assess Systematic Reviews (AMSTAR‐2) and the Risk of Bias in Systematic Reviews (ROBIS) for critically appraising evidence by pharmacy students.

Materials and Methods

Students attended eight lectures on evidence‐based medicine. Students independently assessed two SRs using AMSTAR‐2 and ROBIS. The agreement between both tools were calculated using Spearman's test while interrater reliability was calculated using Fleiss' κ statistics.

Results

Students reported a preference for the AMSTAR‐2 tool due to its clear and distinct rating criteria as well as guidance provided by the tool's developer. In comparison, students found the items on the ROBIS tool difficult to judge as it was subjective. A moderate agreement between both tools on the overall domain ratings was noted (Spearman rs = 0.60). There was slight agreement in the overall confidence using AMSTAR‐2 (κ = 0.05; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.01–0.12) and the overall domain in ROBIS (κ = 0.09; 95% CI: 0.01–0.16).

Conclusion

The AMSTAR‐2 tool had a low level of concordance in ratings of review among students. However, the AMSTAR‐2 tool was preferred by students due to the clear guidance and ease of use.
Smolyak Scheme for solving the Schrödinger equation: Application to Malonaldehyde in Full Dimensionality
Authors: Lauvergnat David , Nauts André
Published: August 2023

In 1963 Smolyak introduced an approach to overcome the exponential scaling with respect to the number of variables of the direct product size [S. A. Smolyak Soviet Mathematics Doklady, 4, 240 (1963)]. The main idea is to replace a single large direct product by a sum of selected small direct products. It was first used in quantum dynamics in 2009 by Avila and Carrington [G. Avila and T. Carrington, J. Chem. Phys., 131, 174103 (2009)]. Since then, several calculations have been published by Avila and Carrington and by other groups. In the present study, and to push the limit to larger and more complex systems, this scheme is combined with the use of an on‐the‐fly calculation of the kinetic energy operator and a Block‐Davidson procedure to obtain eigenstates in our home‐made Fortran codes, ElVibRot and Tnum‐Tana. This was applied to compute the tunneling splitting of malonaldehyde in full dimensionality (21D) using the potential of Mizukami et al. [W. Mizukami, S. Habershon, and D.P. Tew, J. Chem. Phys. 141, 1443–10 (2014)]. Our tunneling splitting calculations, 21.7±0.3 cm−1 and 2.9±0.1 cm−1, show excellent agreement with the experimental values, 21.6 cm−1 and 2.9 cm−1 for the normal isotopologue and the mono‐deuterated one, respectively.
Applying Optical Tweezers with TIRF Microscopy to Quantify Physical Interactions Between Organelles in the Plant Endomembrane System
Authors: Fletcher Eleanor M. , Bateman Benji C. , Botchway Stanley W. , Ward Andrew D. , Sparkes Imogen A.
Published: August 2023

Plant organelles are associated with each other through tethering proteins at membrane contact sites (MCS). Methods such as total internal reflection fluorescence (TIRF) optical tweezers allow us to probe organelle interactions in live plant cells. Optical tweezers (focused infrared laser beams) can trap organelles that have a different refractive index to their surrounding medium (cytosol), whilst TIRF allows us to simultaneously image behaviors of organelles in the thin region of cortical cytoplasm. However, few MCS tethering proteins have so far been identified and tested in a quantitative manner. Automated routines (such as setting trapping laser power and controlling the stage speed and distance) mean we can quantify organelle interactions in a repeatable and reproducible manner. Here we outline a series of protocols which describe laser calibrations required to collect robust data sets, generation of fluorescent plant material (Nicotiana tabacum, tobacco), how to set up an automated organelle trapping routine, and how to quantify organelle interactions (particularly organelle interactions with the endoplasmic reticulum). TIRF‐optical tweezers enable quantitative testing of putative tethering proteins to reveal their role in plant organelle associations at MCS. © 2023 Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol 1: Microscope system set‐up and stability

Basic Protocol 2: Generation of transiently expressed fluorescent tobacco tissue by Agrobacterium‐mediated infiltration

Basic Protocol 3: Setting up an automated organelle trapping routine

Basic Protocol 4: Quantifying organelle interactions
Integrated bioinformatics analysis of differentially expressed genes in the temporomandibular joint internal derangement
Authors: Yang Junda
Published: August 2023

Objectives

This study aimed to identify significant mechanisms and potential treatments for temporomandibular joint internal derangement (TMJD) through integrated bioinformatics analysis.

Materials and Methods

Gene expression data sets (GSE66864) from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database were downloaded. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified both in the treatment groups and in controls by R packages. Network analysis of protein–protein interaction (PPI) and Human Protein Atlas was used to explore DEGs' potential function. DGIdb database was utilized to gain potential drug targets.

Results

In conclusion, 126 DEGs were selected for TMJD through bioinformatics analysis. Both GO and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes analyses combined showed the pathways involved in TMJD. A PPI network was constructed to select the top 10 hub genes, of which five hub genes were chosen for further investigation. Moreover, the microenvironment of immune cells related to hub genes was evaluated by R packages. Macrophages play an important role in inflammation and oral‐related tumors. The Human Protein Atlas analysis indicated that the five hub genes are highly related to head and neck cancer. Finally, eight potential drugs were selected for two genes using the DGIdb database.

Conclusion

Our integrated bioinformatics analysis identified DEGs in TMJD and provided potential ideas for further research and treatment approaches. However, experimental validation of the hub genes and potential drug targets is still needed. The key mechanisms of the identified genes and their potential roles as biomarkers or drug targets in TMJD require further investigation.
Implementation of a novel buck‐boost converter based on coupled inductor for renewable energy applications
Authors: Luo Peng , Chen Yongyan , Hong Junzhe , Zhou Lanyi , Jiang Haoyu
Published: August 2023

A coupled inductor based on dual switches buck‐boost converter is proposed in the article, which can be used in renewable energy applications. A wide conversion ratio can be realized by regulating turns ratio of the coupled inductor and the duty cycle. The topology has a quadratic‐like voltage gain, and the low voltage stress and current stress. Combing the passive clamping circuit to recover leakage energy, the voltage spikes of power switches are suppressed, improving the efficiency. Moreover, it has the merits of continuous input current and common ground. To demonstrate the superior performances of the presented converter, the principle of operation and steady‐state analysis are presented in detail. At last, a 100‐W experimental prototype was designed to verify the correctness of the theoretical analysis, with a maximum efficiency of 95.7% in step‐up mode and 96.8% in step‐down mode.
Shifting seasonality of annual growth through ontogeny for red deer at northern latitudes
Authors: Vindenes Yngvild , Langvatn Rolf , Mysterud Atle
Published: August 2023

Large mammals at northern latitudes show annual cycles of body mass gain in summer and body mass loss in winter. The amplitude and seasonal timing of these cycles may vary through ontogeny depending on trade‐offs toward investments in structural growth versus fat storage, reproduction, and future survival. Despite this knowledge, there is no detailed model of how the seasonality of body mass develops through ontogeny. Here, we define a new seasonal growth model that accounts for shifting seasonality through two sine components: one included in the growth coefficient and the other on the asymptotic size. We fitted 12 candidate models to longitudinal data on body mass of captive male and female red deer (Cervus elaphus) in Norway, with different baseline growth structures (von Bertalanffy, Gompertz, and Brody) and including zero, one, or both of the seasonal components. The best fitting model was the Brody model with both seasonal components included, allowing the annual peak to shift through ontogeny: The annual peak occurred in December for calves, shifting to November in yearlings, and October in 2‐ and 3‐year‐olds, ending with September for adults. All age classes showed an annual minimum at the end of winter around March. Males and females showed similar seasonal peaks through ontogeny, although males grow bigger and have larger seasonal amplitudes. Our new growth model provides a flexible framework to model seasonal growth changing through ontogeny, applicable to different species.
The water–energy–food–land–climate nexus: Policy coherence for sustainable resource management in Sweden
Authors: Blicharska Malgorzata , Smithers Richard J. , Kuchler Magdalena , Munaretto Stefania , van den Heuvel Lotte , Teutschbein Claudia
Published: August 2023

The concept of a ‘nexus’ across issues regarding the management of natural resources has gained increasing academic attention in recent years, but there is still relatively limited research on the application of the nexus approach for evaluating policies. This study analyses coherence among the main goals of five policy areas (water, energy, food, land, and climate) in Sweden, drawing upon a desk review, expert assessment, and interaction with stakeholders. The main objective is to enhance understanding of opportunities and challenges posed by such a nexus, understand policy interactions in Sweden, and provide insights into the use of policy coherence analysis as an integral part of resource nexus assessments. The analysis reveals synergies and conflicts between policy goals. For example, Sweden's environmental quality objectives (EQOs) regarding land and all the goals regarding water are either synergistic or neutral. Likewise, climate policy goals are well aligned with the goals regarding energy and ground water quality. On the other hand, the key goal for agriculture, which is food production, is the least coherent with those of the other policy areas. There are conflicts between the EQOs and goals regarding agricultural and forestry production. Stakeholders also indicate that climate goals are treated with higher priority than the goals of other policy areas. Notably, some interactions between policy goals are synergistic or conflicting depending on the context or their interpretation. Implementation of existing goals depends on relevant stakeholders' interests, priorities and interpretations, and on existing prevailing discourses in society, often supported by higher level policies.
Photoinduced Oxygen Atom Transfer to α‐Pinene and R‐Carvone using a Dioxo‐Molybdenum (VI) Complex Incorporated within a Modified UiO‐67 (Zr/Ti) MOF
Authors: Valdivieso Zarate Laura M. , Bravo Sanabria Cesar A. , Ramírez Caballero Gustavo E. , Martínez Ortega Fernando
Published: August 2023

We report a highly selective (100 %) epoxidation of α‐pinene and R‐carvone using an oxygen atom transfer (OAT) reaction facilitated by a dioxo‐Mo complex (Mo(VI)O2Cl2Ln) incorporated into the ligand 5,5’‐dicarboxylate‐2,2’‐bipyridine (bpydc) within a Metal‐Organic Framework (MOF) type UiO‐67. Photo‐stimulated (350 nm) OAT reaction was carried out with oxygen molecular used as the oxidant for 10 h. UiO‐67 was synthesized with a mixture of the ligands 2,2′‐biphenyl‐5,5′‐dicarboxylate (bpdc) and 2,2‐bipyridine‐5,5‐dicarboxylate (bpydc) in different molar ratios (67 : 33, 50 : 50, 70 : 30, 0 : 100 bpdc : bpydc) to promote a higher presence of catalytic sites, i. e., the dioxo‐Mo complex units. Furthermore, a post‐synthetic exchange of Zr for Ti, between 64 : 36 to 78 : 22 Ti : Zr molar ratio, was performed to improve the optical properties of the MOF and promote the photoinduced OAT reaction. The Catalytic system was characterized by FTIR, XRD, 1H NMR, XPS, TGA, N2 adsorption/desorption and UV‐Vis‐DR. The amount of the epoxide monoterpene is proportional to the number of the dioxomolybdenum(VI) units (MoO2) incorporated in the UiO‐67 (Zr/Ti), and the OAT reaction selectivity is due to the absence of the oxygen radicals in the medium of reaction. Besides, The Mo complex exhibited excellent stability after five cycles of use.
A Fluorescent Probe for Al3+ Based on Calix[4]arene Containing Salicylaldehyde‐Derived Schiff Base
Authors: Wang Zuquan , Li Yunjian , Shi Jing , Sun Xiaoqiang , Xiao Tangxin , Yang Ke , Li Zheng‐Yi
Published: August 2023

Two novel fluorescent probes L1 and L2 for recognizing Al3+ have been prepared by cooperating salicylaldehyde‐derived Schiff base groups onto the upper rim of the calix[4]arene. Of these probes, L2 is the most effective at recognizing Al3+, displaying a highly selective fluorescence “on” response with an emission wavelength at 478 nm and a Stokes shift of 88 nm. Additionally, probe L2 can form a 1 : 1 coordination complex with Al3+ with a binding constant of 2.6×1010 M−1. Furthermore, its fluorescence intensity exhibits a good linear relationship with Al3+ concentration within the range of 2.0×10−5 M to 1.4×10−4 M, and the probe has a low detection limit of 4.36×10−7 M.
C,N‐Diarylformamidines as Valuable Building Blocks in the Synthesis of Heterocyclic Compounds
Authors: Trukhanova Yulia A. , Chernov Nikita M. , Kuvaeva Elena V. , Yakovlev Igor P.
Published: August 2023

Obtaining highly functionalized heterocyclic structures is an important topic of modern organic synthesis, as it reveals the possibility of constructing more complex systems and therefore, expanding the range of various drugs. Aiming at synthesizing complex molecules from simple and readily available reagents, the modification of C,N‐diarylformamidines, well known in medicinal chemistry, is of great interest. This article reviews comprehensively the field of C,N‐diarylformamidine chemistry and covers publications on this topic from 1999 to 2022.
Evaluating the effectiveness of ground motion intensity measures through the lens of causal inference
Authors: Burton Henry V. , Baker Jack W.
Published: August 2023

When solving the performance‐based earthquake engineering (PBEE) integral, the engineering demand parameters (EDPs) are assumed to be independent of the “upstream” parameters used in ground motion models (e.g., magnitude and source‐to‐site distance) after conditioning on the intensity measure (IM). This paper formulates a methodology for evaluating this conditional independence assumption through the lens of causal inference (CI). From a causal perspective, the effect of an upstream parameter on the EDP of interest is partially mediated by the IM with the remainder having a direct influence on the EDP. An IM is judged to be desirable (from a conditional independence standpoint) if the mediated effect of the upstream parameter is maximized, which implies that the direct effect is minimized. In the language of causal inference (CI), the IM, EDP and upstream parameters are described as the “treatment”, “outcome” and “confounding” variables, respectively. It then follows that the best performing IM is the one that maximizes the effect on the EDP after controlling for the upstream parameters. A semi‐parametric model that employs double machine learning is used to estimate the causal effect. The methodology is demonstrated through a case study application utilizing the responses from five special steel moment frames analyzed using 240 site‐agnostic ground motions. Compared to sufficiency‐based assessments, the casual inference method produces findings that are more explainable using structural dynamics principles and invariant to the number of ground motions used in the evaluation.
Time‐varying partial‐directed coherence approach to forecast global energy prices with stochastic volatility model
Authors: Dhifaoui Zouhaier , Ben Jabeur Sami , Khalfaoui Rabeh , Nasir Muhammad Ali
Published: August 2023

For investors and policymakers, forecasting energy prices with accuracy is essential and plays a major role in the global bulk commodity markets. The current study proposes a novel hybrid forecasting model to predict global energy prices, namely, time‐varying partial‐directed coherence with stochastic volatility. The proposed method combines partial‐directed coherence analysis and stochastic volatility models. Accordingly, this study attempts to provide an in‐depth understanding of the relationship between energy markets and global economic conditions as well as the causality pathway between the underlined markets. Monthly data from January 1982 to July 2022 is used in this study. The results show a strong causality between global economic conditions, European oil, and natural gas prices and have profound implications for policymakers. For completeness, we extend the analysis to the forecasting ability of global economic conditions for oil and natural gas prices. The out‐of‐sample results show that the autoregressive model incorporating the global economic conditions index can significantly improve the accuracy of oil and gas price forecasts. In addition, our results are strongly robust over a variety of time horizons for forecasting, and they provide valuable insights into the forecasting choices to guide investment strategies in the energy and financial market.
Application of the Technology Readiness Levels Framework to Natural Resource Management Tools
Authors: Cupp Aaron , Fritts Andrea , Brey Marybeth , Woodley Christa , Smith David , Cornish Mark , McGovern Amy , Simmonds Rob , Jackson Neal
Published: August 2023

Technology advancements in fisheries science can provide useful tools to support natural resource management and conservation. However, new technologies may also present challenges for decision makers due to the lack of a standardized process to assess technologies for consideration within management plans. Future technology development in fishery and water resources could benefit from a framework that assigns an appropriate technology development stage and defines the readiness for implementation. Technology Readiness Levels (TRL) are one established research and development scale used throughout engineering and related disciplines that could be applied to natural resource management tools. The TRL assess the maturity of a technology from nascent idea through a fully developed technology. Steps within this scale could provide a general framework for researchers to follow when planning and conducting studies, while similarly providing a standard scale for resource managers to assess readiness for technology transfer and implementation. The goal of this paper is to describe TRL in the context of natural resource management tools and offer this existing framework as one option to facilitate communication between researchers and managers.
Evaluation of foam application in providing required conditioning for EPB hard rock TBMs
Authors: Firouzei Yavar , Hassanpour Jafar , Peila Daniele , Azali Sadegh Tarigh , Todaro Carmine
Published: August 2023

Utilizing the earth pressure balancing technique on hard rock tunnel boring machines (TBMs) is an efficient way to overcome engineering geological hazards that disrupt the application of these machines. Considering that geomechanical and engineering geological conditions of soil and rock are dramatically different, proposing a suitable conditioning design for earth pressure balance (EPB) hard rock TBMs requires particular attention to the characteristics of the excavated material and ground conditions. In this paper, foam application providing a favourable support medium for EPB hard rock TBMs is evaluated based on the experience of the Tehran metro line 6 southern expansion sector project, using laboratory and actual data. TBM muck, with different water contents, was used as the test specimen after granulometry correction. The trend of changes in the workability of foam conditioned mix was obtained by performing 350 slump tests. The pressurized permeability cell test (PPCT), a testing device capable of applying high water pressures to the conditioned material, was used to evaluate the impermeability of workable mixes. Results indicate that although foam can efficiently increase the workability of dry and moistened specimens, the presence of a separated liquid phase in the test specimen disrupts its application; moreover, foam conditioned mix is permeable even against low water pressures.
The association between mother‐to‐child HIV transmission knowledge and antenatal care utilisation in Cameroon
Authors: Dhillon Satveer , Amoak Daniel , Sano Yujiro , Antabe Roger , Luginaah Isaac
Published: August 2023

While the health benefits of antenatal care (ANC) utilisation for mothers and their infants have been well documented, very few studies have explored the association between mother‐to‐child transmission (MTCT) knowledge of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and mothers' utilisation of ANC in HIV endemic regions such as Cameroon. To address this void in the literature, we use the 2018 Cameroon Demographic and Health Survey to examine the association between mother's knowledge of MTCT of HIV and the three strands of ANC utilisation (i.e., number of ANC visits, timing to first ANC visit, and place of delivery). We found that women with adequate MTCT knowledge were more likely to have four to seven ANC visits (relative risk ratio [RRR] = 1.39, p < 0.001) and more than eight ANC visits (RRR = 1.43, p < 0.05), compared to their counterparts with inadequate knowledge. Similarly, women with adequate MTCT knowledge were more likely to attend ANC within the first trimester (odds ratio [OR] = 1.16, p < 0.05) and to give birth in a health facility (OR = 1.37, p < 0.001) than their counterparts with inadequate MTCT of HIV knowledge. These results remained robust after controlling for theoretically relevant variables. Based on these findings, we discussed several implications for policymakers and recommendations for future research.
Enhancing early parenting in the community: Preliminary results from a learning collaborative approach to scale up Attachment and Biobehavioral Catch‐up
Authors: Appleyard Carmody Karen , Murray Kathryn J. , Williams Breanna , Frost Allison , Coleman Cheri , Sullivan Kelly
Published: August 2023

Attachment and Biobehavioral Catch‐up (ABC) is a promising home‐visiting intervention promoting sensitive caregiving and secure parent–child attachment in families with young children. The goal of this study was to examine a learning collaborative approach to disseminating ABC in a community setting. Training outcomes (e.g., trainee completion, satisfaction, effectiveness of training methods) and intervention outcomes (e.g., parent behavior, parent beliefs, child socioemotional development) were examined. Eighteen practitioners participated in the ABC learning collaborative; 13 completed training. Quantitative and qualitative measures indicated that trainees were satisfied with their experience and valued the unique collaboration opportunities offered by the learning collaborative. In addition, trainees served 67 families in the community, 37 of whom completed all sessions of ABC. The study was conducted in the United States. Racial demographics of the children in the sample included: 56.7% White, 22.4% Black/African–American, 17.9% Bi‐ or Multi‐racial, and 3.0% unknown. Regarding ethnicity, 80.6% were Non‐Hispanic/Latino, 10.4% were Hispanic/Latino, and 9.0% were unknown. Caregivers who completed ABC showed more sensitive parenting behavior and reported positive changes in their perceived self‐efficacy and their beliefs around infant crying. Children who received ABC showed increased socioemotional functioning. Results demonstrate successful dissemination of ABC in the community using a learning collaborative approach.
Exploring the connections between disciplinary and digital literacies in history
Authors: Lesley Mellinee , Stewart Elizabeth , Keene Johanna
Published: August 2023

Given the prevalence of digital tools and platforms as the primary pedagogical means through which to organize and deliver content in schools, this study examined how history teachers instructed students in digital literacies to develop their disciplinary knowledge through project‐based learning. Although several studies addressing new literacies tout digital mediums as a way to ignite adolescents' imagination and bring together conceptual and social learning, this research revealed students struggled with navigating numerous digital literacy tasks in the context of learning to read, write, and think like historians, which hindered their ability to curate knowledge utilizing disciplinary literacies. Thus, this study raises questions about the methods needed to converge disciplinary knowledge and digital literacies as well as the extent to which Information Communication Technologies can transform rather than replace disciplinary practices. Implications for student engagement are discussed.
TMCO3, a Putative K+:Proton Antiporter at the Golgi Apparatus, Is Important for Longitudinal Growth in Mice and Humans
Authors: Holling Tess , Brylka Laura , Scholz Tasja , Bierhals Tatjana , Herget Theresia , Meinecke Peter , Schinke Thorsten , Oheim Ralf , Kutsche Kerstin
Published: August 2023

Isolated short stature, defined as short stature without any other abnormalities, is a common heterogeneous condition in children. Exome sequencing identified the homozygous nonsense variant c.1832G>A/p.(Trp611*) in TMCO3 in two sisters with isolated short stature. Radiological studies, biochemical measurements, assessment of the skeletal status, and three‐dimensional bone microarchitecture revealed no relevant skeletal and bone abnormalities in both sisters. The homozygous TMCO3 variant segregated with short stature in the family. TMCO3 transcript levels were reduced by ~50% in leukocyte‐derived RNA of both sisters compared with controls, likely due to nonsense‐mediated mRNA decay. In primary urinary cells of heterozygous family members, we detected significantly reduced TMCO3 protein levels. TMCO3 is functionally uncharacterized. We ectopically expressed wild‐type TMCO3 in HeLa and ATDC5 chondrogenic cells and detected TMCO3 predominantly at the Golgi apparatus, whereas the TMCO3W611* mutant did not reach the Golgi. Coordinated co‐expression of TMCO3W611*‐HA and EGFP in HeLa cells confirmed intrinsic instability and/or degradation of the mutant. Tmco3 is expressed in all relevant mouse skeletal cell types. Highest abundance of Tmco3 was found in chondrocytes of the prehypertrophic zone in mouse and minipig growth plates where it co‐localizes with a Golgi marker. Knockdown of Tmco3 in differentiated ATDC5 cells caused reduced and increased expression of Pthlh and Ihh, respectively. Measurement of long bones in Tmco3tm1b(KOMP)Wtsi knockout mice revealed significant shortening of forelimbs and hindlimbs. TMCO3 is a potential member of the monovalent cation:proton antiporter 2 (CPA2) family. By in silico tools and homology modeling, TMCO3 is predicted to have an N‐terminal secretory signal peptide, forms a dimer localized to the membrane, and is organized in a dimerization and a core domain. The core domain contains the CPA2 motif essential for K+ binding and selectivity. Collectively, our data demonstrate that loss of TMCO3 causes growth defects in both humans and mice. © 2023 American Society for Bone and Mineral Research (ASBMR).
Properly colored and rainbow C4 ${C}_{4}$'s in edge‐colored graphs
Authors: Wu Fangfang , Broersma Hajo , Zhang Shenggui , Li Binlong
Published: August 2023

We present new sharp sufficient conditions for the existence of properly colored and rainbow 's in edge‐colored graphs. Our first results deal with sharp color neighborhood conditions for the existence of properly colored 's in edge‐colored complete graphs and complete bipartite graphs, respectively. Next, we characterize the extremal graphs for an anti‐Ramsey number result due to Alon on the existence of rainbow 's in edge‐colored complete graphs. We also generalize Alon's result from complete to general edge‐colored graphs. Finally, we derive a structural property regarding the extremal graphs for a bipartite counterpart of Alon's result due to Axenovich, Jiang, and Kündgen on the existence of rainbow 's in edge‐colored complete bipartite graphs. We also generalize their result from complete to general bipartite edge‐colored graphs.
The average order of a connected induced subgraph of a graph and union‐intersection systems
Authors: Vince Andrew
Published: August 2023

Because connectivity is such a basic concept in graph theory, extremal problems concerning the average order of the connected induced subgraphs of a graph have been of notable interest. A particularly resistant open problem is whether or not, for a connected graph of order , all of whose vertices have degree at least 3, this average is at least . It is shown in this paper that if is a connected, vertex transitive graph, then the average order of the connected induced subgraphs of is at least .

The extremal graph theory problems mentioned above lead to a broader theory. The concept of a Union‐Intersection System (UIS)  is introduced, being a finite set of points and a set of subsets of called blocks satisfying the following simple property for all : if , then . To generalize results on the average order of a connected induced subgraph of a graph, it is conjectured that if a UIS is, in various senses, “connected and regular,” then the average size of a block is at least half the number of points. We prove that if a union‐intersection set system is regular, completely irreducible, and nonredundant, then the average size of a block is at least half the number of points.
Diagnosis and management of children with McArdle Syndrome (GSD V) in New South Wales
Authors: Adams Louisa , Selvanathan Arthavan , Batten Kiera J. , van Doorn Nancy , Thompson Susan , Mitchell Ashleigh , Sampaio Hugo , Dalkeith Troy , Russell Jacqui , Ellaway Carolyn J. , Farrar Michelle , Broderick Carolyn , Bhattacharya Kaustuv
Published: August 2023

Glycogen storage type V (GSD V—McArdle Syndrome) is a rare neuromuscular disorder characterised by severe pain early after the onset of physical activity. A recent series indicated a diagnostic delay of 29 years; hence reports of children affected by the disorder are uncommon (Lucia et al., 2021, Neuromuscul Disord, 31, 1296–1310). This paper presents eight patients with a median onset age of 5.5 years and diagnosis of 9.5 years. Six patients had episodes of rhabdomyolysis with creatine kinase elevations >50 000 IU/L. Most episodes occurred in relation to eccentric non‐predicted activities rather than regular exercise. One of the patients performed a non‐ischaemic forearm test. One patient was diagnosed subsequent to a skeletal muscle biopsy, and all had confirmatory molecular genetic diagnosis. Three were homozygous for the common PYGM:c.148C > T (p.Arg50*) variant. All but one patient had truncating variants. All patients were managed with structured exercise testing to help them identify ‘second‐wind’, and plan an exercise regimen. In addition all also had an exercise test with 25 g maltodextrin which had statistically significant effect on ameliorating ratings of perceived exertion. GSD V is under‐recognised in paediatric practice. Genetic testing can readily diagnose the condition. Careful identification of second‐wind symptomatology during exercise with the assistance of a multi‐disciplinary team, allows children to manage activities and tolerate exercise. Maltodextrin can be used for structured exercise, but excessive utilisation may lead to weight gain. Early intervention and education may improve outcomes into adult life.
Factors associated with antibody titer levels among an occupational cohort of fully vaccinated individuals and subsequent risk of COVID‐19 infection: A cohort study
Authors: Wasserman Erin B. , Sills Allen K. , Martins Damion , Casolaro Anthony , Walton Patti , Anderson Deverick , Pasha Saamir , O'Neal Catherine , Eichner Daniel , Osterholm Michael , Mancell Jimmie , Mack Christina D.
Published: August 2023

This study (1) determined the association of time since initial vaccine regimen, booster dose receipt, and COVID‐19 history with antibody titer, as well as change in titer levels over a defined period, and (2) determined risk of COVID‐19 associated with low titer levels. This observational study used data from staff participating in the National Football League COVID‐19 Monitoring Program. A cohort of staff consented to antibody‐focused sub‐study, during which detailed longitudinal data were collected. Among all staff in the program who received antibody testing, COVID‐19 incidence following antibody testing was determined. Five hundred eighty‐six sub‐study participants completed initial antibody testing; 80% (469) completed follow‐up testing 50−101 days later. Among 389 individuals who were not boosted at initial testing, the odds of titer < 1000 AU/mL (vs. ≥1000 AU/mL) increased 44% (odds ratio [OR] = 1.44, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.18−1.75) for every 30 days since final dose. Among 126 participants boosted before initial testing with no COVID‐19 history, 125 (99%) had a value > 2500 AU/ml; 86 (96%) of 90 tested at follow‐up and did not develop COVID‐19 in the interim remained at that value. One thousand fifty‐seven fully vaccinated (330 [29%] boosted at antibody test) individuals participating in the monitoring program were followed to determine COVID‐19 status. Individuals with titer value < 1000 AU/mL had twice the risk of COVID‐19 as those with >2500 AU/mL (HR = 2.02, 95% CI: 1.28−3.18). Antibody levels decrease postvaccination; boosting increases titer values. While antibody level is not a clear proxy for infection immunity, lower titer values are associated with higher COVID‐19 incidence, suggesting increased protection from boosters.