bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Improving the precision and accuracy of wildlife monitoring with multi‐constellation, multi‐frequency GNSS collars
Authors: Garrido‐Carretero María S. , Azorit Concepción , de Lacy‐Pérez de los Cobos María C. , Valderrama‐Zafra José Manuel , Carrasco Rafael , Gil‐Cruz Antonio J.
Published: February 2023

The use of global navigation satellite systems (GNSS) technology within the fields of ecology and biology has increased over recent years. With Global Positioning System, GLObalnaya NAvigatsionnaya Sputnikovaya Sistema, Galileo, and BeiDou systems fully deployed, >140 navigation satellites are currently available for navigation and high precision positioning applications. The technological improvements in GNSS devices, mainly due to the multi‐frequency capability, reduce signal acquisition time and increase the reliability, the continuity, and the accuracy of the estimated position, especially in complex environments like forests or areas with a steep topography. This study aims to test experimentally the influence of multi‐constellation multi‐frequency modules on the performance of the GNSS collars used to monitor wildlife. We applied static and kinematic tests designed to assess and compare the performance of GNSS collars equipped with a single‐frequency versus a multi‐frequency chipset. We evaluated the availability and continuity of solutions, number of satellites used, dilution of precision, precision, accuracy, and repeatability of these quality parameters for GNSS devices in southeastern Spain from February 2021 to June 2022. The results confirmed that the multi‐constellation multi‐frequency GNSS collar showed a stable and good performance in terms of the number of satellites used (>10), horizontal dilution of precision (<1.3), fix success rate (100%), mean location error (<1.5 m), and circular error probability (CEP), which was better by approximately one order of magnitude than the single‐frequency collar (1–10 m). The use of reliable and accurate GNSS devices will expand our knowledge of animal behavior and the interactions between species. Multi‐frequency GNSS collars allow collection of accurate locations, providing fine‐scale information about animal behavior (e.g., feeding strategies, competition for resources), whereas the single‐frequency GNSS collars can used for broad‐scale studies (e.g., home ranges, habitat use).
The medium‐term effects of forest operations on a mixed broadleaf forest: Changes in soil properties and loss of nutrients
Authors: Karami Sara , Jourgholami Meghdad , Attarod Pedram , Venanzi Rachele , Latterini Francesco , Stefanoni Walter , Picchio Rodolfo
Published: February 2023

This study took place in a mixed deciduous forest located in Northern Iran to investigate the effects of two types of silvicultural methods, specifically the single‐selection method and the group‐selection method. The study also included the observation of skid trails in terms of runoff, sediment yield, and the loss of NO3‐N and PO4‐P. The process of recovery was studied by the assessment of these characteristics after the completion of forest operations for a period of 3 years. Although there is a considerable amount of literature on the topic of soil erosion caused by forest harvesting, there is little information regarding the medium‐term effects of different sizes of gaps in the forest canopy. The attempt to gather data was done by designating hillslope plots on the soil directly affected by machinery passage on skid trails, as well as on the felling gaps in correlation with the two types of silvicultural methods. Plots were also marked on an unharvested area as a control. The results confirmed the suitability of retention forestry within the framework of sustainable forest management. A majority of the data gathered showed no difference between the single selection and the control area. What is more, the values obtained from the felling gaps correlated to the group selection resulted to be the same as the control values 2 years after harvesting. However, the disturbance caused by machinery passage on skid trails showed a significantly higher level of impact, and the recovery time needed was at least 3 years.
Detection and prediction of land use changes and population dynamics in the Gorganrud River basin, Iran
Authors: Ghonchepour Diba , Sadoddin Amir , Salmanmahiny Abdolrassoul , Bahremand Abdolreza , Jakeman Anthony , Croke Barry
Published: February 2023

Analyzing land use/land cover change is a fundamental tool for evaluating the environmental consequences of human activities. This research was conducted to detect and predict likely land use changes in the Gorganrud River basin, Iran, and to estimate past and future population growth as a driving force in land use change and degradation. First, land use maps for 1999, 2009, and 2017 were prepared. Then, the likely land use changes for 2030 and 2040 were predicted using the Land Change Modeler (LCM) in TERRSET software. Results indicate that the percentage of changes in agricultural and residential areas, bare lands, and semi‐dense forests from 1999 to 2017 were +4.2, +0.62, +1.76, and +3.15, respectively, while the percentage of changes in rangelands, dense forests, and water bodies were −8.7, −0.37, and −0.63. Analysis of changes from 2017 to 2040 indicates that the percentage of changes in croplands, dense forests, and bare lands may reach −4.42, −2.35, and −2.74, respectively. Conversely, the area of rangelands, semi‐dense forests, water bodies, and residential areas would likely increase by +7.78%, +1.02%, +0.04%, and + 0.7%, respectively. The population density in 2011 and 2016 was 94 and 97 persons/km2, respectively, whereas the 5‐year population growth rate was 3.5%. Better conservation practices to prevent deforestation and inappropriate growth of residential areas, in line with forest replantation to prevent the conversion of semi‐dense forests into rangelands, are some of the management strategies required in the study area. Population control and redistribution are other prescribed actions based on the research findings.
Human social genomics: Concepts, mechanisms, and implications for health
Authors: Slavich George M. , Mengelkoch Summer , Cole Steven W.
Published: February 2023

The exciting field of human social genomics provides an evolutionarily informed, multilevel framework for understanding how positive and negative social–environmental experiences affect the genome to impact lifelong health, well‐being, behavior, and longevity. In this review, we first summarize common patterns of socially influenced changes in the expression of pro‐inflammatory and antiviral immune response genes (e.g., the Conserved Transcriptional Response to Adversity), and the multilevel psychological, neural, and cell signaling pathways by which social factors regulate human gene expression. Second, we examine how these effects are moderated by genetic polymorphisms and the specific types of social–environmental experiences that most strongly affect gene expression and health. Third, we identify positive psychosocial experiences and interventions that have been found to impact gene expression. Finally, we discuss promising opportunities for future research on this topic and how health care providers can use this information to improve patient health and well‐being.
Effect of Sr microalloying on microstructure and corrosion resistance of Al–4.6Mg alloy
Authors: Yang Zhanshou , Dong Yaping , Li Wu , Liu Xin , Feng Haitao
Published: February 2023

The effect of Sr on the microstructure of Al–4.6Mg alloy is studied via optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy‐energy‐dispersive analysis, electron backscattered diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, and the intergranular corrosion susceptibility is evaluated according to ASTM G67. The main precipitation phases of Al–4.6Mg alloy are β‐Al3Mg2 and Al6Mn, with a new square phase of Al3Mn also being formed. After the addition of Sr, the β‐Al3Mg2 phase of the alloy decreases, the morphology changes, and Al4Sr and τ‐Al38Mg58Sr4 phases are formed. Accordingly, the nanoscale precipitation phase τ‐Al38Mg58Sr4 is uniformly distributed inside the grains. Microstructure analysis shows that Sr promotes the dynamic recovery and dynamic recrystallization of the alloy, inhibits the growth of recrystallized grains, and reduces the alloy grain size from 14.294 to 10.273 μm. Additionally, the low‐angle grain boundaries increase, the high‐angle grain boundaries decrease, the texture of the rotated cube r‐{001}<110> improves, and the deformation texture decreases. The IGC susceptibility of the alloy is reduced with the addition of Sr, and the corrosion resistance in an electrolyte containing NaCl is enhanced.
Copper‐Coordinated Covalent Organic Framework Produced a Robust Fenton‐Like Effect Inducing Immunogenic Cell Death of Tumors
Authors: Li Tong , Wang Dianwei , Meng Meng , Yang Zhiyu , Luo Zhimin , Li Zhen , Li Fei , Liu Cong , Hao Kai , Pang Xuan , Tian Huayu , Chen Xuesi
Published: February 2023

Increasing infiltration of CD8+ T cells can enhance the response rate to immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) therapies. In contrast, immunogenic cell death (ICD) induced by intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) is an effective strategy to increase CD8+ T cell infiltration. Cuproptosis is newly defined and reported by Tsvetkov et al. A Cu‐coordinated covalent organic framework (COF) in which two valence states of copper ions are simultaneously loaded is prepared. On the one hand, Cu2+ undergoes a valence shift generating Cu+ which acts as an effective Fenton‐like reagent to catalyze the production of ·OH and 1O2 from cellular overexpressed H2O2, causing DNA damage and lipid peroxidation (LPO), which directly produce cytotoxicity. On the other hand, residual Cu2+ can effectively deplete endogenous cellular glutathione (GSH), converting it into glutathione disulfide (GSSG), further increasing intracellular oxidative stress and reducing the scavenging of ROS, thus further enhancing the Fenton‐like effect and bringing toxic effects on tumor cells. The synergy of these two functions achieves ICD, helping for transforming “cold tumor” into “hot tumor” and efficient anti‐tumor effects eventually. This work provides new insights into coordinated COF and inspire the development of more versatile COF for biomedical applications.
An investigation into trends in frequency and proportion of different durations of various types of extreme precipitation in Iran
Authors: Asakereh Hossein , Ashrafi Saeideh
Published: February 2023

Climate change can be traced in any given region by searching for changes in climatic elements' characteristics. Extreme precipitation, for example, is a characteristic of precipitation whose changes, especially in recent years, can be attributed to global warming and climate change. This study aimed to investigate possible changes in extreme precipitation in Iran by analysing the frequency of extreme rainy days duration. To this end, gridded precipitation datasets from the hydrological years 1971–1972 to 2015–2016 were used, and days associated with extreme precipitation were extracted by using thresholds of 90th, 95th, and 99th percentiles (as heavy, very heavy, and extremely heavy precipitation, respectively). Latitude and longitude showed the most significant correlation with precipitation characteristics in the spatial distribution during the study period. In addition, heavy (HP), very heavy, and extremely heavy precipitation experienced durations of 1–8, 1–7, and 1–4 days, respectively. At all extremes, the 1‐day duration covered more areas and had more repetition, while the longer duration had the lowest tempo–spatial repetition. According to the results of the present study, the one‐day duration of HP contributed more significantly to the annual precipitation. The proportion of this type of precipitation has been more significant in the southern and central regions of the country. Furthermore, it was revealed that the frequency of durations of short‐term HP increased during the study period, whereas the duration of long‐term HP declined.
An existence result with numerical solution of nonlinear fractional integral equations
Authors: Kazemi Manochehr , Deep Amar , Nieto Juan
Published: February 2023

By utilizing the technique of Petryshyn's fixed point theorem in Banach algebra, we examine the existence of solutions for fractional integral equations, which include as special cases of many fractional integral equations that arise in various branches of mathematical analysis and their applications. Also, the numerical iterative method is employed successfully to find the solutions to fractional integral equations. Lastly, we recall some different cases and examples to verify the applicability of our study.
The Polymethoxyflavone Sudachitin Modulates the Circadian Clock and Improves Liver Physiology
Authors: Mawatari Kazuaki , Koike Nobuya , Nohara Kazunari , Wirianto Marvin , Uebanso Takashi , Shimohata Takaaki , Shikishima Yasuhiro , Miura Hiroyuki , Nii Yoshitaka , Burish Mark J. , Yagita Kazuhiro , Takahashi Akira , Yoo Seung‐Hee , Chen Zheng
Published: February 2023

Scope

Polymethoxylated flavones (PMFs) are a group of natural compounds known to display a wide array of beneficial effects to promote physiological fitness. Recent studies reveal circadian clocks as an important cellular mechanism mediating preventive efficacy of the major PMF Nobiletin against metabolic disorders. Sudachitin is a PMF enriched in Citrus sudachi, and its functions and mechanism of action are poorly understood.

Methods and results

Using circadian reporter cells, it shows that Sudachitin modulates circadian amplitude and period of Bmal1 promoter‐driven reporter rhythms, and real‐time qPCR analysis shows that Sudachitin alters expression of core clock genes, notably Bmal1, at both transcript and protein levels. Mass‐spec analysis reveals systemic exposure in vivo. In mice fed with high‐fat diet with or without Sudachitin, it observes increased nighttime activity and daytime sleep, accompanied by significant metabolic improvements in a circadian time‐dependent manner, including respiratory quotient, blood lipid and glucose profiles, and liver physiology. Focusing on liver, RNA‐sequencing and metabolomic analyses reveal prevalent diurnal alteration in both gene expression and metabolite accumulation.

Conclusion

This study elucidates Sudachitin as a new clock‐modulating PMF with beneficial effects to improve diurnal metabolic homeostasis and liver physiology, suggesting the circadian clock as a fundamental mechanism to safeguard physiological well‐being.
Gut Microbiota Influences the Photoperiod Effects on Proanthocyanidins Bioavailability in Diet‐Induced Obese Rats
Authors: Arreaza‐Gil Verónica , Escobar‐Martínez Iván , Mulero Miquel , Muguerza Begoña , Suárez Manuel , Arola‐Arnal Anna , Torres‐Fuentes Cristina
Published: February 2023

Scope

Polyphenols health effects on obesity are mainly attributed to their metabolites generated after their gastrointestinal digestion, in which gut microbiota plays an important role. Moreover, gut microbiota composition and polyphenols bioavailability are influenced by differences in day light length (photoperiod). Thus, this study evaluates if a grape seed proanthocyanidins (GSPEs) extract bioavailability is influenced by different photoperiod exposure via gut microbiota modulation in an obesogenic context.

Methods and results

Cafeteria diet‐induced obese Fischer 344 rats are housed under different photoperiod conditions (6, 12, or 18 h of light per day) during 9 weeks and administered with GSPE (25 mg kg−1) or GSPE and an antibiotic cocktail (ABX) for the last 4 weeks. Serum GSPE‐derived metabolites are quantified by HPLC‐MS/MS.

Conclusion

A higher bioavailability is observed under 6 h light/18 h darkness (L6) compared to 18 h light/6 h darkness (L18). Individual metabolites, especially those from the gut microbiota, are affected by photoperiods. ABX treatment alters these photoperiod‐mediated changes. Therefore, these results suggest that gut microbiota plays a key role in the photoperiod effects on GSPE bioavailability in obese rats.
Evaluation of Hyperthermic Potential and Acute Toxicity of PLGA‐PEG/Magnetite Microspheres Loaded with Oxaliplatin Using Mice as a Test System
Authors: Pereira Emiliane Daher , de Souza Junior Fernando Gomes , Pinto José Carlos , Filho Sergio Thode , Pal Kaushik , dos Santos Pyrrho Alexandre , da Costa Renata Cerruti , da Cunha Bruno Pereira , da Silveira Maranhão Fabíola , de Almeida Thuanny Moraes
Published: February 2023

Oxaliplatin and modified magnetic nanoparticles (magnetite‐lysine) are inserted into microspheres of previously synthesized poly(lactic acid‐co‐glycolic acid‐b‐ethylene glycol) PLGA‐PEG to evaluate the in vitro hyperthermal potential and the acute toxicity in mice. The used nanoparticles are synthesized by the coprecipitation method, using Fe II and Fe III, and modification with lysine is performed during the synthesis. The drug and the magnetic nanoparticles are inserted into the polymer beads through oil in water (O/W) emulsion. The obtained composites are then characterized by Fourier‐transform infrared (FTIR), Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), X‐ray Diffraction (XRD), and submitted to magnetic hyperthermia and acute toxicity tests. The hyperthermia tests are conducted according to an experimental design. The magnetite‐lysine nanoparticles reached the temperature for the desired application and are able to raise the temperature by 6 °C at the higher investigated current, time, and concentration conditions. According to the proposed statistical study, only the test time exerted significant positive influence on the observed temperature increase, although synergies between time and concentration and between current and concentration are also significant. In vivo acute toxicity tests are also conducted with swiss mice and revealed that the prepared materials and procedures can be regarded as safe and of low toxicity.
Pelvic mapping to explore patterns of chronic pelvic pain
Authors: Aibel Kelli , Choi Sharon , Moldwin Robert
Published: February 2023

Purpose

Chronic pelvic pain syndromes (CPPS) are commonly encountered by urologists and urogynecologists and pose diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. Body maps have been helpful adjuncts to verbal descriptions of pain and may serve a role in phenotyping what is known to be a heterogeneous patient population. The aim of this study was to assess whether patterns of pain as marked on a body map of the pelvis exist among common CPPS diagnoses. The secondary aim was to investigate the association between the total number of pain locations marked on the map and clinical indices in patients with 1 to 3 CPPS diagnoses.

Materials and Methods

Data was collected on patients who visited the Northwell Health Pelvic Pain Treatment Center (PPTC) from January to May 2022 and were diagnosed with at least one of four major CPPS diagnoses: interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome (IC/BPS), pelvic floor myalgia (PFM), chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CP/CPPS), and vulvodynia. Demographic data as well as survey data from pelvic pain maps, Genitourinary Pain Index (GUPI) forms, and the short form‐6 of the Pain Catastrophizing Scale (PCS‐6) were recorded. Descriptive statistics among CPPS groups and Pearson correlations among the number of CPPS diagnoses were computed.

Results

One hundred seventy females and 125 males with CPPS were included in the study. Significant cross‐over in mapping patterns was notable between IC/BPS and PFM groups, both most commonly marking “abdomen” and “genital” regions. The most distinct pattern of pain was seen in patients with CP/CPPS and in patients with vulvodynia. Among the total sample, as the mean number of pain locations marked within the pelvis increased, GUPI and PCS scores increased (p < 0.05). As the number of CPPS diagnoses increased, the strength of the relationship independently increased.

Conclusions

Pelvic body mapping demonstrated that different forms of CPPS displayed different distributions of pain, but mapping was not predictive of any diagnostic group. Nevertheless, the pelvic body map proved useful in identifying precise locations of pain and may help uncover regions of pain that cannot be easily communicated. The total number of pain sites marked appeared to correlate with worse clinical features.
Challenges of nurses and family members of burn patients: Integrative review
Authors: Wang Yi , Wong Frances Kam Yuet , Bayuo Jonathan , Chung Loretta Yuet Foon , Zhang Li , Wang Taotao
Published: February 2023

Aims

To identify the challenges facing burn care nurses and burn patients' family members and to explore the relationship between the above challenges.

Design

Whittemore and Knafl's integrative review.

Methods

Databases used for this review included Cochrane Library, Web of Science, PubMed and Embase. The original research published from January 2010 to November 2021 was selected. Studies reporting the challenges of family members or nurses of burn patients identified through extensive database search were considered for inclusion. The Mixed‐Method Appraisal‐Tool was applied for the evaluation of the quality of the literature. The analysis approach used was content analysis.

Results

Of the 2746 identified studies, 17 studies were included. Key findings related to the challenges facing nurses and family members of burn patients were extracted. The themes relating to burn care nurses included ethical and religious issues, clinical issues, work–life imbalance and limited support. The themes relating to family members included family's different views on prognosis and treatment, work–life imbalance, psychological issues and lack of multifaceted support. The challenges for the formal and informal caregivers are similar and there is existence of some shared concerns. If the above challenges are not resolved, support for the burn patients may be adversely affected. Corresponding measures should be taken to overcome such challenges.
Translation and psychometric evaluation of a scale to measure the fear of activity in Chinese patients with coronary artery disease
Authors: Chen Jiehong , Guo Wei , Liu Hongmei , Liu Wenhui , Chen Junjie , Ma Chunhua
Published: February 2023

Aim

To translate and test the psychometric properties of a Chinese version scale to measure the Fear of Activity in patients with Coronary Artery Disease.

Design

A cross‐sectional design.

Methods

The translation of the scale to measure Fear of Activity in Patients with Coronary Artery Disease included three steps, forward‐back translation, expert discussion and pilot survey. The internal consistency and test–retest reliability were used to assess the reliability of the Chinese version scale of the Fear of Activity. Content, construct, criterion, and known‐group validity of the scale were also evaluated.

Data Sources

A total of 275 patients with Coronary Artery Disease were recruited from a university‐affiliated hospital in Guangzhou, southern China.

Results

The overall content validity index of the Chinese version scale of the Fear of Activity in Patients with Coronary Artery Disease was 0.90. Principal component analyses extracted four factors with a cumulative variance contribution of 57.5%. There is a strong correlation (r = 0.83) between this scale and Tampa Scale for Kinesiophobia Heart. The total scores of the Chinese version scale of the Fear of Activity in female patients were higher than those in male patients with Coronary Artery Disease, indicating that the scale was able to distinguish the differences between low and high score groups. The Internal consistency and test–retest reliability coefficients of the scale were 0.74 and 0.82, respectively.

Conclusion

The Chinese version scale of the Fear of Activity in Patients with Coronary Artery Disease, which consists of 21 items with four dimensions, is a reliable and valid instrument to evaluate the fear of activity in patients with Coronary Artery Disease.

Implications for the Profession and/or Patient Care

The Chinese version scale of the Fear of Activity in Patients with Coronary Artery Disease can be used to assess the levels of fear of activity in patients with Coronary Artery Disease and explores the factors that influence fear of activity in the population.

Impact

This study translates and confirms the psychometric properties of the Chinese version scale of the Fear of Activity in Patients with Coronary Artery Disease in China. It is useful in both research and clinical fields to explore the fear of activity and its associated factors in patients with Coronary Artery Disease.

Reporting Method

The study design followed the guideline of Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology statement.

Patient or Public Contribution

Patients in a university‐affiliated hospital participated in this study and contributed to data collection.
Interventions to promote mobility and quality of life in nursing homes: A systematic review
Authors: Bohn Benjamin , Strupeit Steve
Published: February 2023

Aim

The aim of the study was to identify interventions to promote mobility that has an impact on the quality of life of people living in nursing homes and assisted living facilities.

Design

The design of the study was a systematic review.

Methods

The search was performed in September 2021 in the databases PubMed, Epistemonikos and the Cochrane Library for studies published between 2010 and 2021 in the German or English language.

Results

Four studies identified improvements in mobility and quality of life. Nine of the ten included studies showed impacts of the interventions on different mobility variables. Heterogeneous variables and instruments were used to assess quality of life and, in particular, mobility, which made it difficult to compare the results of the studies. Approximately 50% of the identified studies had small sample sizes.
Report on fraying resilience among the Ontario Registered Practical Nurse Workforce in long‐term care homes during COVID‐19
Authors: Connelly Denise M. , Snobelen Nancy , Garnett Anna , Guitar Nicole , Flores‐Sandoval Cecilia , Sinha Samir , Calver Jen , Pearson Diana , Smith‐Carrier Tracy
Published: February 2023

Aim

Registered Practical Nurses (RPNs) are frontline healthcare providers in Ontario long‐term care (LTC) homes. Throughout COVID‐19, RPNs working in LTC homes experienced prolonged lockdowns, challenging working conditions, and inadequate resource allocation. This study aimed to describe the personal and professional resilience of RPNs working in LTC during the COVID‐19 pandemic.

Design

An open cross‐sectional online survey containing the Connor–Davidson Resilience Scale, Resilience at Work Scale®, and Resilience at Work Team Scale®.

Methods

The survey was distributed by the RPN Association of Ontario (WeRPN) to approximately 5000 registered members working in Ontario LTC homes.

Results

A total of 434 respondents participated in the survey (completion rate = 88.0%). Study respondents scored low on measures of resilience and reported extreme levels of job (54.5%) and personal (37.8%) stress. Resources to support self‐care and work‐life balance, build capacity for team‐based care practice(s) are needed.
Exploring social media adoption by nurses for nursing practice in rural Volta, Ghana
Authors: Gamor Nathan , Dzansi Gladys , Konlan Kennedy Dodam , Abdulai Eliasu
Published: February 2023

Aim

The purpose of the study was to inquire into social media adoption by nurses for nursing practice.

Design

An exploratory descriptive qualitative design was employed in understanding social media adoption for nursing care among nurses.

Method

A purposive sampling technique was employed to recruit 12 participants for the study. A semi‐structured interview guide was used to conduct in‐depth interviews which were audiotaped, transcribed verbatim, coded and analysed. Thematic analysis was used to analyse the data with NVivo 12.

Results

The findings revealed nurses found social media to be useful for the dissemination, and reception of information, professional development and enhanced referral networks. Apart from its usefulness, participants believe that it is easy to navigate its apps, clear and understandable to use and does not involve much mental effort hence their favourable attitude towards use. Some participants also believe that inaccurate information, privacy and confidentiality concerns, distraction and addiction were some potential risks that are associated with its usage in nursing practice. Due to this, some participants developed a negative attitude towards its usage.

Patient or Public Contribution

Twelve nurses actively participated in the study.
Convergence analysis of expanded mixed virtual element methods for nonlocal problems
Authors: Adak Dibyendu
Published: February 2023

In this article, we have developed the mixed virtual element formulation for the nonlocal parabolic problem. A priori error estimates for the semi‐discrete and the fully‐discrete schemes are derived and analyzed. The spatial discretization is based on the mixed virtual element framework, and the backward Euler method is used for the time discretization. Using Brouwer's fixed point argument, we have proved the existence and uniqueness of a fully‐discrete scheme. A set of representative numerical examples investigates such theoretical results.
Emerging therapies for eosinophilic esophagitis
Authors: Meek Patrick D. , Hemstreet Brian
Published: February 2023

Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is an inflammatory condition of the esophagus that is quickly becoming a more recognized cause of esophageal dysfunction and dysphagia. The cause of EoE is thought to be due to an inflammatory response triggered by exposure to dietary or environmental antigens. Symptoms may be progressive and include reflux, nausea, vomiting, dysphagia, and reduction in quality of life. Both children and adults may be affected. Initial treatments for EoE have focused on elimination diets to potentially identify and remove dietary triggers, acid suppression with proton pump inhibitors, and topical delivery of orally administered swallowed corticosteroids. These therapies are often ineffective in a large proportion of patients, leading to exploration of other approaches by focusing on cytokines involved in the inflammatory response. Most recently, dupilumab, a monoclonal antibody targeting IL‐4 received approval for use in patients aged 12 years or older with EoE. Use of dupilumab has seen favorable improvements in disease progression and symptoms with chronic use. Other therapies targeting IL‐5, such as mepolizumab, reslizumab, and benralizumab are currently being studied for use in EoE. Therapies targeting other key inflammatory mediators in EoE, such as Siglec‐8 (lirentelimab), IL‐13 (cendakimab), and the sphingosine 1‐phosphate receptor (etrasimod) are currently being evaluated in clinical trials.
Torsion angles to map and visualize the conformational space of a protein
Authors: Ginn Helen Mary
Published: February 2023

Present understanding of protein structure dynamics trails behind that of static structures. A torsion‐angle‐based approach, called the representation of protein entities, derives an interpretable conformational space that correlates with data collection temperature, resolution, and reaction coordinate. For more complex systems, atomic coordinates fail to separate functional conformational states, which are still preserved by torsion angle‐derived space. This indicates that torsion angles are often a more sensitive and biologically relevant descriptor for protein conformational dynamics than atomic coordinates.
Genetic and non‐genetic factors influencing efavirenz population pharmacokinetics among human immunodeficiency virus‐1‐infected children in Ethiopia
Authors: Chala Adugna , Kitabi Eliford Ngaimisi , Ahmed Jemal Hussien , Tadesse Birkneh Tilahun , Chaka Tolossa Eticha , Makonnen Eyasu , Aklillu Eleni
Published: February 2023

Despite the potential for efavirenz (EFV) to be an effective alternative antiretroviral agent, its sources of wide inter‐ and intra‐individual pharmacokinetic (PK) variability are not well‐characterized in children. We investigated the effects of genetic and non‐genetic factors, including demographic, treatment duration, baseline clinical, and biochemical characteristics, on the PKs of EFV through population‐PK modeling. Antiretroviral therapy (ART) naïve HIV infected children, 3–16 years (n = 100), were enrolled in Ethiopia and received EFV‐based combination ART. EFV concentrations after the first dose and at steady‐state collected over a span of 1 year were modeled using population‐based methods. A one‐compartment model with first‐order absorption kinetics described the observed EFV data adequately. The CYP2B6*6 and ABCB1c.4036A>G genotypes were identified as major factors influencing EFV clearance. The typical estimates of oral clearance, volume of distribution, and absorption rate constant for typical 22 kg children with CYP2B6 *1/*1 and ABCB1c.4036G/G genotypes were 4.3 L/h, 124 L, and 0.776/h, respectively. Clearance was reduced by 28% and 72% in CYP2B6*1/*6 and CYP2B6*6/*6 genotypes, respectively. Compared to week 1, clearance was higher from weeks 8 and 12 in CYP2B6*1/*6 and CYP2B6*1/*1 genotypes, respectively. Simulations indicated that EFV 12‐h concentrations were comparable across weight bands, but more than 80% of subjects with CYP2B6*6/*6 had EFV concentrations greater than 4 μg/mL. EFV PK variability among children is partly explained by body weight, treatment duration, CYP2B6*6, and ABCB1 rs3842 genotypes. Therefore, in addition to body weight, pediatric dosing of EFV should consider pharmacogenetic variability, duration of therapy, and individual treatment outcomes.
Beneficial effects of berberine against pulmonary complications of experimental pulmonary arterial hypertension in rats and some relevant mechanisms
Authors: Beik Ahmad , Najafipour Hamid , Joukar Siyavash , Rajabi Soodeh , Masoumi‐Ardakani Yaser , Dabiri Shahriar , Ziasistani Mahsa
Published: February 2023

Pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) is a severe disease that leads to pulmonary vascular remodeling characterized by a rise in pulmonary vascular resistance and pressure. We assessed the effects of an herbal compound, berberine (BB), and some related mechanisms on PAH in rats. Male Wistar rats were assigned to seven groups: control, monocrotaline (MCT), MCT+vehicle, and MCT+BB (with doses of 10, 20, 30, and 40 mg/kg) groups. Three weeks after induction of PAH by MCT, treatment groups received daily intraperitoneal injections of vehicle or BB for 3 weeks. On Day 43, the right ventricular systolic pressure (RVSP, as an index of pulmonary arterial pressure) and the ratio of RV to LV+septum weight (as RV hypertrophy index, right ventricle hypertrophy [RHVI]) were measured. Inflammatory and oxidative stress indices and histopathology of the lungs were also assessed. RVSP (89.4 ± 8.2 vs. 23 ± 3.3), RVHI (0.63 ± 0.08 vs. 0.26 ± 0.04), and lung inflammatory cytokines TNF‐α (2.03 ± 0.25 vs. 1.21 ± 0.3) and IL‐6 (8.8 ± 0.59 vs. 6.3 ± 0.95) significantly increased in the MCT group compared to the control group. MCT also raised the level of Malondialdehyde (0.11 ± 0.01 vs. 0.09 ± 0.01) and diminished total antioxidant capacity (6.5 ± 0.51 vs. 8.3 ± 0.62), the activity of superoxide dismutase (1.19 ± 0.22 vs. 1.93 ± 0.2), glutathione peroxidase (0.02 ± 0.002 vs. 0.03 ± 0.005), catalase (2.1 ± 0.29 vs. 2.8 ± 0.20) and Bax/Bcl‐2 ratio (0.41 ± 0.07 vs. 0.61 ± 0.09) in the lungs. Treatment with BB significantly recovered all of these alterations. BB ameliorated pulmonary vascular remodeling by decreasing inflammation and fibrosis and increasing apoptosis and antioxidant/oxidant balance. Therefore, this herbal derivative may be considered a therapeutic goal against PAH.
A statistical perspective on the signal‐to‐noise paradox
Authors: Bröcker Jochen , Charlton–Perez Andrew J. , Weisheimer Antje
Published: February 2023

An anomalous signal‐to‐noise ratio (also called the signal‐to‐noise paradox) present in climate models has been widely reported, affecting predictions and projections from seasonal to centennial timescales and encompassing prediction skill from internal processes and external climate forcing. An anomalous signal‐to‐noise ratio describes a situation where the mean of a forecast ensemble correlates better with the corresponding verification than with its individual ensemble members. This situation has severe implications for climate science, meaning that large ensembles might be required to extract prediction signals. Although a number of possible physical mechanisms for this paradox have been proposed, none has been universally accepted. From a statistical point of view, an anomalous signal‐to‐noise ratio indicates that forecast ensemble members are not statistically interchangeable with the verification, and an apparent paradox arises only if such an interchangeability is assumed. It will be demonstrated in this study that an anomalous signal‐to‐noise ratio is a consequence of the relative magnitudes of the variance of the observations, the ensemble mean, and the error of the ensemble mean. By analysing the geometric triangle formed by these three quantities, and given that for typical seasonal forecasting systems both the correlation and the forecast signal are relatively small, it is concluded that an anomalous signal‐to‐noise ratio should, in fact, be expected in such circumstances.
Estimation of stress‐strength reliability for beta log Weibull distribution using progressive first failure censored samples
Authors: Shi Xiaolin , Shi Yimin
Published: February 2023

In this paper, we investigate classical and Bayes estimates for stress‐strength reliability (SSR) based on two independent progressive first failure censored samples from beta log Weibull distributions with different shape and scale parameters. The maximum likelihood estimation of SSR and its asymptotic confidence interval are obtained. Bayes estimates of SSR are derived under two different loss functions using the Tierney–Kadane's approximation algorithm. In addition, two different bootstrap confidence intervals are provided and the highest posterior density credible interval of SSR is also constructed by applying Monte Carlo Markov chain method. The performances of different point and interval estimates are assessed using the Monte Carlo simulation. Finally, three real data sets are analyzed for illustration purposes.
Gaussian basis functions for an orbital‐free‐related density functional theory of atoms
Authors: LeMaitre Phil A. , Thompson Russell B.
Published: February 2023

A representation of polymer self‐consistent field theory equivalent to quantum density functional theory is given in terms of non‐orthogonal basis sets. Molecular integrals and self‐consistent equations for spherically symmetric systems using Gaussian basis functions are given, and the binding energies and radial electron densities of neutral atoms hydrogen through krypton are calculated. An exact electron self‐interaction correction is adopted and the Pauli‐exclusion principle is enforced through ideas of polymer excluded‐volume. The atoms hydrogen through neon are examined without some approximations which permit cancellation of errors and spontaneous shell structure is observed. Correlations are neglected in the interest of simplicity and comparisons are made with Hartree–Fock theory. The implications of the Pauli‐exclusion potential and its approximate form are discussed, and the Pauli model is analyzed using scaling theory for the uniform electron density case where the correct form of the Thomas–Fermi quantum kinetic energy and the Dirac exchange correction are recovered.
Multichannel Six‐Wave Mixing with Spatial Multimode and Squeezing via Atomic Coherence
Authors: Zhang Siqiang , Yan Jin , Feng Zhou , Luo Binshuo , Wei Jiajia , Cai Yin , Zhang Yanpeng
Published: February 2023

Multimode properties, based on nonlinear parametric processes, have potential research value on entanglement imaging. This paper studies the spatial and frequency multimode from dressing parametric‐amplified six‐wave mixing (PA‐SWM) process with three entangled signals. The S1 signal contains fifth‐order nonlinearity, the S2 signal contains electromagnetically induced absorption and fifth‐order nonlinearity, and the S3 signal contains Autler–Townes splitting (AT), second‐ and fifth‐order nonlinearity. The frequency multimode is attributed to dressing energy level splitting in spontaneous SWM (SSWM) process. The spatial multimode is due to frequency multimode and beam splitting via Kerr nonlinearity. In the spatial domain, it finds the optimal conditions of intensity difference squeezing (IDS) and spatial imaging along with their competitive relationship. On the one hand, the light spots with single spatial mode are contributed to the maximum IDS but not conducive to entanglement imaging; on the other hand, the light spots with multiple spatial modes are instrumental in entanglement imaging but not appropriate for the IDS. This research has potential applications in squeezed light sources for quantum metrology, and correlated imaging of spatial signals.
Precise Nondestructive Parity Measurement of Artificial Atoms Using a Superconducting Resonator and Homodyne Measurement
Authors: Xiao Yang , Kang Yi‐Hao , Zheng Ri‐Hua , Liu Yang , Wang Yu , Song Jie , Xia Yan
Published: February 2023

In this paper, a robust and accurate protocol is proposed to realize nondestructive parity measurement of artificial atoms using a superconducting resonator and homodyne measurement. With the help of an additional microwave driving field, the cavity field evolves into a coherent state or remains in a vacuum state according to the parity of the atoms. Consequently, the parity information of atoms can be read out by a homodyne measurement on the cavity. Parity information can be obtained without destroying the original state of the system, which means that the state can be further applied to other quantum information processing tasks after a parity measurement. The numerical simulation results show that the protocol is robust against systematic error, random noise, and decoherence. Therefore, this protocol can provide a feasible viewpoint for nondestructive parity measurement.
Adaptive anti‐disturbance sampling control of autonomous surface vehicles based on discrete‐time concurrent learning extended state observers
Authors: Li Huijuan , Cui Kai , Gu Nan , Liu Lu , Wang Dan , Peng Zhouhua
Published: February 2023

This paper investigates the surge speed tracking control of an autonomous surface vehicle (ASV) subject to fully unknown internal dynamic, external disturbance, and unknown control input gain. An adaptive anti‐disturbance sampling control method is proposed for an ASV without using any model parameters. Specifically, by utilizing real‐time and historical data, discrete‐time reduced‐order and full‐order concurrent learning extended state observers (CLESOs) are designed to estimate the unknown ASV model parameters and ensure estimation convergence without requiring persistent excitation. Then, a surge speed tracking control law is designed based on the discrete‐time full‐order CLESO. Through Lyapunov stability analysis, the closed‐loop system is proven to be stable, and the estimation and tracking errors are bounded. Simulation and hardware‐in‐loop experimental results validate the effectiveness of the proposed discrete‐time CLESOs for the surge speed tracking of an ASV with fully unknown dynamic model.
Patent remedies and technology licensing: Evidence from a supreme court decision
Authors: Aydin Ozden Senem , Khashabi Pooyan
Published: February 2023

Research Summary

Remedies for infringement are important determinants of the strength of patent protection. However, there has been little emphasis on the role of patent remedies in profiting from innovation via licensing. To address this gap, we examined the impact of patent remedies on technology licensing. Our study exploited a US Supreme Court decision that reduced the probability of issuing injunctions as a remedy to compare US firms' licensing propensity with that of a matched control group of European firms. We found that the decision reduced, on average, US firms' propensity to license. This effect is driven mainly by small firms and especially those in discrete technology industries. This research contributes to the literature on profiting from innovation and presents several implications for firms' licensing strategies.

Managerial Summary

This study demonstrates how patent remedies (i.e., injunctions vs. ongoing royalties) differentially influence firms' incentives to engage in technology licensing. We suggest that injunctions cast a credible threat to potential licensees' product market activities, enhance the bargaining power of licensors in negotiations, and increase the likelihood of making a deal. Our research shows that when the probability of obtaining an injunction declines, firms are less likely to capture value by out‐licensing their technological innovations. Especially for small firms, profiting from innovation via licensing becomes challenging. This effect exacerbates when small firms operate in discrete technology industries. These findings imply that in such conditions, firms may benefit from other value capture mechanisms, such as entering the product market or forming partnerships with industry incumbents.
Nanoparticles Targeted to Fibroblast Activation Protein Outperform PSMA for MRI Delineation of Primary Prostate Tumors
Authors: Dmochowska Nicole , Milanova Valentina , Mukkamala Ramesh , Chow Kwok Keung , Pham Nguyen T. H. , Srinivasarao Madduri , Ebert Lisa M. , Stait‐Gardner Timothy , Le Hien , Shetty Anil , Nelson Melanie , Low Philip S. , Thierry Benjamin
Published: February 2023

Accurate delineation of gross tumor volumes remains a barrier to radiotherapy dose escalation and boost dosing in the treatment of solid tumors, such as prostate cancer. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of tumor targets has the power to enable focal dose boosting, particularly when combined with technological advances such as MRI‐linear accelerator. Fibroblast activation protein (FAP) is overexpressed in stromal components of >90% of epithelial carcinomas. Herein, the authors compare targeted MRI of prostate specific membrane antigen (PSMA) with FAP in the delineation of orthotopic prostate tumors. Control, FAP, and PSMA‐targeting iron oxide nanoparticles were prepared with modification of a lymphotropic MRI agent (FerroTrace, Ferronova). Mice with orthotopic LNCaP tumors underwent MRI 24 h after intravenous injection of nanoparticles. FAP and PSMA nanoparticles produced contrast enhancement on MRI when compared to control nanoparticles. FAP‐targeted MRI increased the proportion of tumor contrast‐enhancing black pixels by 13%, compared to PSMA. Analysis of changes in R2 values between healthy prostates and LNCaP tumors indicated an increase in contrast‐enhancing pixels in the tumor border of 15% when targeting FAP, compared to PSMA. This study demonstrates the preclinical feasibility of PSMA and FAP‐targeted MRI which can enable targeted image‐guided focal therapy of localized prostate cancer.