bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electroreductive Umpolung Enabling Reformatsky‐Type Reaction of Bromodifluoroamides with Aldehydes/Ketones
Authors: Shen Zheng‐Jia , Tu Jia‐Lin , Guo Lin , Yang Chao , Xia Wujiong
Published: November 2023

An electrochemical Reformatsky‐type reaction of bromodifluoroamides with aldehydes/ketones via electron reductive umpolung is reported, leading to the generation of a series of β‐hydroxy‐α,α‐difluoro amides in moderate to good yields. This protocol tolerated a variety of commercially available alkyl ketone, alkyl and aromatic aldehydes, featuring broad substrate scope and good functional group tolerance under transition metal‐free conditions without metal reduction reagents. Control experiment indicated that the reaction proceeded via an electron reductive umpolung pathway.
All‐Optical Thermometry with Infrared Emitting Defects in Diamond
Authors: de Vries Mitchell O. , del Rosal Blanca , Messalea Kibret A. , Gibson Brant C. , Reineck Philipp , Johnson Brett C.
Published: November 2023

Diamond color centers (optically active defects) can be used for all‐optical thermometry for non‐invasive and localized temperature measurements. The visible to near‐infrared photoluminescence of these defects is greatly attenuated in optical fibres and biological samples and therefore limits their use. A color center in Si‐doped diamond with emission coinciding with the O‐band and a major biological transparency window has recently been reported. It has a zero phonon line (ZPL) at 1221 nm and well‐resolved phonon side‐band features. In this work, a strong temperature dependence above 150 K is observed, allowing for accurate temperature measurements up to approximately 420 K. The temperature can be determined via spectral shifts or thermal broadening of the ZPL and through the intensity ratio between the ZPL and the phonon side‐band to a maximum temperature resolution of 0.57 K/. Thermometry using these micro‐diamonds is demonstrated for both electronic and biological applications highlighting their versatility. The potential for further enhancements in sensitivity is discussed.
Entropy and Isokinetic Temperature in Fast Ion Transport
Authors: Du Peng , Zhu Hong , Braun Artur , Yelon Arthur , Chen Qianli
Published: November 2023

Ion transport in crystalline solids is an essential process for many electrochemical energy converters such as solid‐state batteries and fuel cells. Empirical data have shown that ion transport in crystal lattices obeys the Meyer‐Neldel Rule (MNR). For similar, closely related materials, when the material properties are changed by doping or by strain, the measured ionic conductivities showing different activation energies intersect on the Arrhenius plot, at an isokinetic temperature. Therefore, the isokinetic temperature is a critical parameter for improving the ionic conductivity. However, a comprehensive understanding of the fundamental mechanism of MNR in ion transport is lacking. Here the physical significance and applicability of MNR is discussed, that is, of activation entropy‐enthalpy compensation, in crystalline fast ionic conductors, and the methods for determining the isokinetic temperature. Lattice vibrations provide the excitation energy for the ions to overcome the activation barrier. The multi‐excitation entropy model suggests that isokinetic temperature can be tuned by modulating the excitation phonon frequency. The relationship between isokinetic temperature and isokinetic prefactor can provide information concerning conductivity mechanisms. The need to effectively determine the isokinetic temperature for accelerating the design of new fast ionic conductors with high conductivity is highlighted.
Hexabutylcyclohexane‐1,2,3,4,5,6‐hexaimine Additive‐Assisted Commercial Ester Electrolyte for 4.7 V Highly‐Stable Li‐Metal Batteries
Authors: Jia Ruiliu , Dai Hongliu , Tu Xingchao , Sun Chuang , Sun Shuhui , Lai Chao
Published: November 2023

The development of high‐energy density batteries is of utmost importance for various applications. However, the utilization of numerous high‐capacity materials is impeded by the inadequate stability of electrolytes beyond 4.5 V. This research proposes a straightforward yet highly efficient strategy to overcome this limitation and enhance the stability of interfaces in high‐voltage Li metal batteries when employing commercial ester electrolytes. A series of electrolyte additives is designed with the aim of gradually extending the length of the terminal alkyl groups of cyclohexane‐1,2,3,4,5,6‐hexaimine (CHHI). Among these additives, hexabutylcyclohexane‐1,2,3,4,5,6‐hexaimine (HBCHHI) demonstrate exceptional performance due to the synergistic complementarity of n‐butyl and imino groups. This synergistic effect leads to the formation of a thinner, denser, and LixN‐rich solid/cathode‐electrolyte interface. Accordingly, the electrolyte‐electrode interactions are suppressed, enabling Li||LiNi0.8Co0.1Mn0.1O2 (NCM811) battery operation at a high‐voltage of 4.7 V with alleviated structural degradation of cathode and even Li deposition at the anode. The capacity retention of high‐voltage Li||NCM811 cells is improved by ≈250% after 500 cycles at a rate of 5C. The lifespan of full cells is also prolonged at quasi‐practical conditions of high cathode loading of ≈2.5 mAh cm−2.
Aortic dissection in a young male with persistent ductus arteriosus and a novel variant in MYLK
Authors: Boelman Maria Bejerholm , Hansen Thomas van Overeem , Smith Matthias Nybro , Hammer‐Hansen Sophia , Christensen Alex Hørby , Diness Birgitte Rode
Published: November 2023

Pathogenic variants in several genes involved in the function or regulation of smooth muscle cells (SMC) are known to predispose to congenital heart disease and thoracic aortic aneurysm and dissection (TAAD). Variants in MYLK are primarily known to predispose to TAAD, but a growing body of evidence points toward MYLK also playing an essential role in the regulation of SMC contraction outside the aorta. In this case report, we present a patient with co‐occurrence of persistent ductus arteriosus (PDA) and thoracic aortic dissection. Genetic analyses revealed a novel splice acceptor variant (c.3986‐1G > A) in MYLK, which segregated with disease in the family. RNA‐analyses on fibroblasts showed that the variant induced skipping of exon 24, which resulted in an in‐frame deletion of 101 amino acids. These findings suggest that MYLK‐associated disease could include a broader phenotypic spectrum than isolated TAAD, including PDA and obstructive pulmonary disease. Genetic analyses could be considered in families with TAAD and PDA or obstructive pulmonary disease.
Synthesis, spectroscopic characterization studies of chelating complexes and their applications as antimicrobial agents, DNA binding, molecular docking, and electrochemical studies
Authors: El‐Zahed Mohamed Marzouk , Diab Mostafa Amin , El‐Sonbati Adel Zaki , Saad Manal Hesham , Eldesoky Ahmed Mohammed , El‐Bindary Mohamed Ashraf
Published: November 2023

N,N′‐bis(2,4‐dihydroxy benzaldehyde‐1,2‐diaminobenzene) (H4L) formed from the reaction of 2,4‐dihydroxybenzaldehyde and 1,2‐diaminobenzene was complexed with Cu (II), Co (II), Ni (II), Mn (II), and UO2(II) ions. The formed complexes have been characterized by their physical data, spectral studies such as FT‐IR, Uv–Vis., 1H & 13C NMR, Mass, elemental microanalysis (C.H.N.), thermal analysis, X‐ray diffraction, and magnetic susceptibility measurements. The molecular docking between the protein receptors of the H4L ligand and its complexes was studied as theoretical method. The ligand and its metal complexes (1–5) were tested for their ability to inhibit the growth of various pathogenic microbial strains. The biological significance of the Schiff base compound and complexes as antifungal, antibacterial, and anticandidal agents as well as cytotoxicity was studied. The tested microorganisms respond better to the metal complexes than the Schiff base ligand. In comparison to the ligand, complexes, and penicillin, the UO2(II) complex (5) demonstrated the strongest antibacterial activity. In comparison to ligand, complexes, and miconazole, the UO2(II) complex (5) has antifungal activity against Aspergillus niger and Candida albicans. Complexes (1) and (5) have higher activity of antibacterial than other complexes against Pseudomonas sp. and the highest antifungal and anticandidal activity in comparison with miconazole. The ligand and its complexes showed a dose‐dependent antibacterial action according to the minimum inhibition concentration test. Using Tafel polarization and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy experiments, the protective impact of the bis‐Schiff base ligand (H4L) ligand versus Q235 Steel and its adsorption performance were investigated. The interaction between H4L Schiff base and complexes (1)–(5) and calf thymus DNA shows hypochromism effect coupled with obvious bathochromic shift.
Studying the optoelectronic properties and emission quenching dynamics of poly‐TPD by incorporating ZnO nanoparticles and multiwalled carbon nanotubes
Authors: Al‐Asbahi Bandar Ali
Published: November 2023

In this study, the optoelectronic properties and emission dynamic quenching of poly‐TPD were investigated upon incorporating ZnO nanoparticles and multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs). A solution blending method was utilized to successfully prepare poly‐TPD incorporated with various contents of ZnO/MWCNT nanocomposites. The optoelectronic properties of the nanocomposites were analyzed using UV–Vis and photoluminescence spectrophotometry. The incorporation of the nanocomposites resulted in a decrease in transmittance, reflectance, and absorption edge, indicating a reduction in the poly‐TPD's bandgap. Parameters such as extinction coefficient, Urbach energy, and charge carrier density also decreased with addition of the nanocomposites, suggesting increased scattering, disorder, and the presence of defect states. The decrease in bandgap from 2.970 to 2.852 eV with increasing the nanocomposite content confirmed the emergence of new electronic states. Furthermore, the nature of the transitions changed from direct allowed for pure poly‐TPD to direct forbidden upon incorporation of the nanocomposites. The inclusion of the nanocomposites also led to a decrease in refractive index and fluorescence intensity. The observed fluorescence quenching primarily exhibited dynamic characteristics, with a Stern–Volmer constant of 5.14 L/g and quenching rate constants surpassing the minimum threshold for efficient quenching. The increase in charge transfer rate constants with the nanocomposite content indicated enhanced quenching efficiency and charge transfer, likely due to the increased surface area and presence of defects. These findings suggest that poly‐TPD incorporated with ZnO/MWCNT nanocomposites displays promising properties for applications in optoelectronic devices.
A new backward shift algorithm for system identification by a good choice of frequencies
Authors: Mi Wen , Qian Tao
Published: November 2023

In this study, we propose a novel backward shift algorithm for pole estimation of linear time‐invariant (LTI) systems. By making adjustments, we address the question: How should the frequencies of input signals be chosen? We select the frequencies based on algebraic accuracy in the numerical integral and use the Gaussian–Legendre formula in this process. After poles are located, the discrete Fourier transform (DFT) and the new backward shift algorithm (new BSA) along with the least squares (LS) method are used to identify the systems. Two examples show that the proposed method for pole estimation performs better and the corresponding identification algorithm is practical.
Enhancing and monitoring spore production in Clostridium butyricum using pH‐based regulation strategy and a robust soft sensor based on back‐propagation neural networks
Authors: Xu Feng , Zhang Wenxiao , Wang Yonghong , Tian Xiwei , Chu Ju
Published: November 2023

Clostridium butyricum is a probiotic that forms anaerobic spores and plays a crucial role in regulating gut microbiota. However, the total viable cell count and spore yield of C. butyricum in industrial production are comparatively low. To this end, we investigated the metabolic characteristics of the strain and proposed three distinct pH regulation strategies for enhancing spore production. In addition, precise measurement of fermentation parameters such as substrate concentration, total viable cell count, and spore concentration is crucial for successful industrial probiotics production. Nevertheless, online measurement of these intricate parameters in the fermentation of C. butyricum poses a considerable challenge owing to the complex, nonlinear, multivariate, and strongly coupled characteristics of the production process. Therefore, we analyzed the capacitance and conductivity acquired from a viable cell sensor as the core parameters for the fermentation process. Subsequently, a robust soft sensor was developed using a seven‐input back‐propagation neural network model with input variables of fermentation time, capacitance, conductivity, pH, initial total sugar concentration, ammonium ion concentration, and calcium ion concentration. The model enables the online monitoring of total viable biomass count, substrate concentrations, and spore yield, and can be extended to similar fermentation processes with pH changes as a characteristic feature.
Isolation and propagation of bovine blood‐derived macrophages using a mixed culture with bovine endothelial B46 cells
Authors: Hiramatsu Kanae , Ikeda Rina , Kawaji Satoko , Ueno Yuichi , Nagata Reiko , Hayashi Ken‐Go , Iga Kosuke , Yoshioka Miyako , Takenouchi Takato
Published: November 2023

Macrophages are innate immune cells with multiple functions such as phagocytosis, cytokine production, and antigen presentation. Since macrophages play critical roles in some bacterial infectious diseases in cattle, including tuberculosis, paratuberculosis, and brucellosis, the in vitro culturing of bovine macrophages is useful for evaluating host–pathogen interactions at the cellular and molecular levels. We have previously reported the establishment of two immortalized bovine liver sinusoidal cell lines, endothelial B46 cells and myofibroblast‐like A26 cells (Cell Biology International, 40, 1372−1379, 2016). In this study, we investigated the use of these cell lines as feeder cells that support the proliferation of bovine blood‐derived macrophages (BBMs). Notably, the B46 cell line efficiently acts as feeder cells for the propagation of BBMs. Compared with primary cultured vascular endothelial cells, the infinite proliferation ability of B46 cells is more beneficial for preparing confluent feeder layers. In conclusion, this study provides a simple and efficient protocol for the isolation and propagation of BBMs using a primary mixed culture of bovine whole blood with B46 feeder cells. Isolated BBMs are expected to be useful for developing in vitro models for studying the interactions between bovine pathogens and host immune cells.
A sensitive biosensor for cyanide detection using modified glassy carbon electrode with reduced graphene oxide and immobilization of horseradish peroxidase
Authors: Ghanavati Mahdi , Keshavarz Moraveji Mostafa , Iranshahi Davood
Published: November 2023

Cyanide is a highly poisonous and hazardous substance which may release into the environment from natural sources or industrial effluent; therefore, cyanide detection is a fundamental step to prevent environmental pollution and secure health and safety. In this study, we prepared a sensitive amperometric inhibition biosensor for cyanide detection by immobilization of horseradish peroxidase (HRP) enzyme and reduced graphene oxide (rGO) on the surface of glassy carbon electrode (GCE). To do so, we performed the amperometric measurement by modified GCE to test its efficiency in detecting cyanide. The optimum conditions of pH equal to 7.5, −100 mV applied potential, 0.7 μM mediator concentration, and 0.5 mM substrate concentration were found. Then, experiments were performed at different boundary conditions in a range of 0.1 to 10 μM cyanide concentration at optimal conditions and a low detection limit of 0.01 μM was obtained. Also, the possible mechanism of inhibition was analyzed based on the Michalis–Menten equation and non‐competitive inhibition was observed. Due to high sensitivity, low detection limit, and low cost, this biosensor is proposed as a useful method for cyanide determination in real samples.
Pattern of ventral temporal lobe interconnections in rhesus macaques
Authors: Bautista Julied , García‐Cabezas Miguel Á. , Medalla Maria , Rosene Douglas L. , Zikopoulos Basilis , Barbas Helen
Published: November 2023

The entorhinal cortex (EC, A28) is linked through reciprocal pathways with nearby perirhinal and visual, auditory, and multimodal association cortices in the temporal lobe, in pathways associated with the flow of information for memory processing. The density and laminar organization of these pathways is not well understood in primates. We studied interconnections within the ventral temporal lobe in young adult rhesus monkeys of both sexes with the aid of neural tracers injected in temporal areas (Ts1, Ts2, TE1, area 36, temporal polar area TPro, and area 28) to determine the density and laminar distribution of projection neurons within the temporal lobe. These temporal areas can be categorized into three different cortical types based on their laminar architecture: the sensory association areas Ts1, Ts2, and TE1 have six layers (eulaminate); the perirhinal limbic areas TPro and area 36 have an incipient layer IV (dysgranular); and area 28 lacks layer IV (agranular). We found that (1) temporal areas that are similar in laminar architecture by cortical type are strongly interconnected, and (2) the laminar pattern of connections is dependent on the difference in cortical laminar structure between linked areas. Thus, agranular A28 is more strongly connected with other agranular/dysgranular areas than with eulaminate cortices. Further, A28 predominantly projected via feedback‐like pathways that originated in the deep layers, and received feedforward‐like projections from areas of greater laminar differentiation, which emanated from the upper layers. Our results are consistent with the Structural Model, which relates the density and laminar distribution of connections to the relationship of the laminar structure between the linked areas. These connections were viewed in the context of the inhibitory microenvironment of A28, which is the key recipient of pathways from the cortex and of the output of hippocampus. Our findings revealed a higher population of calretinin (CR)‐expressing neurons in EC, with a significantly higher density in its lateral division. Medial EC had a higher density of CR neurons in the deep layers, particularly in layer Va. In contrast, parvalbumin (PV) neurons were more densely distributed in the deep layers of the lateral subdivisions of rostral EC, especially in layer Va, whereas the densities of calbindin (CB) neurons in the medial and lateral EC were comparable in all layers, except for layer IIIa, in which medial EC had a higher CB population than the lateral. The pattern of connections in the inhibitory microenvironment of EC, which sends and receives input from the hippocampus, may shed light on signal propagation in this network associated with diverse aspects of memory, and disruptions in neurologic and psychiatric diseases that affect this region.
Pragmatic Approach to Applying Polygenic Risk Scores to Diverse Populations
Authors: Patel Aniruddh P. , Fahed Akl C.
Published: November 2023

Polygenic risk scores (PRS) estimate genetic susceptibility of an individual to disease and have the potential of providing utility in multiple clinical contexts. However, their performance, computation, and reporting in diverse populations remain challenging. Here, we present a pragmatic approach to optimize a PRS for a population of interest that leverages publicly available data and methods and consists of seven steps that are easily implemented without the requirement of expertise in complex genetics: step 1, selecting source genome‐wide association studies (GWAS) and imputation; step 2, selecting methods to compute polygenic score; step 3, adjusting scores using principal components of genetic ancestry; step 4, selecting the best performing score; step 5, defining percentiles of a population distribution; step 6, validating performance of the optimized polygenic score; and step 7, implementing the optimized polygenic score in clinical practice. © 2023 Wiley Periodicals LLC.
The effect of corporate social responsibility on firm performance: Insights from ISO 9001‐certified manufacturing firms in Ghana
Authors: Gyekye Kwabena Agyarko , Agana Joseph Akadeagre , Mireku Kwame , Domeher Daniel , Koranteng Eric Tieku
Published: November 2023

The purpose of this paper is to examine the effect of corporate social responsibility (CSR) on the performance of ISO 9001‐certified manufacturing firms in Ghana. Specifically, we explore the effect of CSR on the market value and profitability of manufacturing firms in Ghana that have adopted ISO 9001. We use panel data estimation techniques to examine the empirical link between CSR activities and the performance of ISO 9001 certified manufacturing firms. Our panel data was pooled from a total of 65 ISO 9001‐certified manufacturing firms in Ghana observed over 5 years yielding a total of 325 firm‐year observations. Our empirical results show that there is a positive relationship between CSR, market share and profitability of ISO 9001‐certified manufacturing firms. The results are indicative that firms stand to gain if they adopt a more deliberate strategy toward CSR activities. This study provides significant input to the extant literature and offers a comprehensive guide to policy makers and management of ISO 9001‐certified manufacturing firms on CSR engagement in emerging economies like Ghana.
UAV‐SHUTTLE‐MMM: UAV‐shuttle‐enabled mobility management model in sparsely deployed flying ad hoc networks
Authors: Agrawal Juhi , Kapoor Monit
Published: November 2023

The reliable surveillance of a large region typically needs a large number of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), which leads to high operational costs in flying ad hoc networks (FANETs). Therefore, the UAV mobility model plays an important role that affecting the performance of FANET. This research paper comes up with a novel UAV‐shuttle‐enabled mobility management model (US‐MMM) that is a crucial attribute for the large and highly sparse network. The proposed mobility model uses UAV shuttles. A relatively lesser number of UAVs are used than comparative approaches to enhance the connectivity among the UAVs in a sparse network. UAV shuttle is the special self‐governing node, which traverses the network and collects the data to deliver to the base station (BS). The main strength of the proposed mobility model is the self‐governing ability of the UAV shuttle, which leads to high connectivity in the network. The UAV shuttle executes the proposed dynamic path planning algorithm and uses the adaptive ranking algorithm to determine its target. The main contribution of this research work is to develop a subnet scan and Number of Neighbor and Distance‐based Adaptive Ranking of Targets (NN‐DART) algorithm for dynamic route planning of UAV shuttle. The proposed mobility model is used with various routing schemes to check the difference in the performance of various routing schemes. The proposed mobility model is simulated in NS‐2.35, and the results have shown an improvement in the packet delivery ratio, routing overhead, and end‐to‐end delay.
Medicinal polypharmacology: Exploration and exploitation of the polypharmacolome in modern drug development
Authors: Stefan Sven Marcel , Rafehi Muhammad
Published: November 2023

At the core of complex and multifactorial human diseases, such as cancer, metabolic syndrome, or neurodegeneration, are multiple players that cross‐talk in robust biological networks which are intrinsically resilient to alterations. These multifactorial diseases are characterized by sophisticated feedback mechanisms which manifest cellular imbalance and resistance to drug therapy. By adhering to the specificity paradigm (“one target‐one drug concept”), research focused for many years on drugs with very narrow mechanisms of action. This narrow focus promoted therapy ineffectiveness and resistance. However, modern drug discovery has evolved over the last years, increasingly emphasizing integral strategies for the development of clinically effective drugs. These integral strategies include the controlled engagement of multiple targets to overcome therapy resistance. Apart from the additive or even synergistic effects in therapy, multitarget drugs harbor molecular‐structural attributes to explore orphan targets of which intrinsic substrates/physiological role(s) and/or modulators are unknown for future therapy purposes. We designated this multidisciplinary and translational research field between medicinal chemistry, chemical biology, and molecular pharmacology as ‘medicinal polypharmacology’. Medicinal polypharmacology emerged as alternative approach to common single‐targeted pharmacology stretching from basic drug and target identification processes to clinical evaluation of multitarget drugs, and the exploration and exploitation of the ‘polypharmacolome’ is at the forefront of modern drug development research.
Carbons Derived from Agave tequilana Fibers as Efficient Sulfur Supports for High‐Performance Lithium–Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Arvizu‐Rodríguez Liliana E. , Olvera‐Sosa Miguel , Arcibar‐Orozco Javier Antonio , Chazaro‐Ruiz Luis Felipe , Rangel‐Mendez Rene , Avalos‐Borja Miguel
Published: November 2023

The fabrication of cathodes with carbonized Agave tequilana bagasse for Li–S batteries is performed for the first time. Three porous carbonaceous structures are developed and studied to elucidate the best carbon textural properties in terms of their surface area and pore size distribution: hierarchical porosity, highly microporous, and nonporous material, for sulfur hosting in Li–S cathodes. N2 physorption, scanning electron microscopy, infrared spectroscopy, and potentiometric titrations analysis are performed to determine the textural, morphology, and physicochemical properties. The fabricated coin cells, CR2032, with cathodes made of mesoporous carbons, display a high discharge current (≈1600 mAh g−1), superior performance, and cyclability up to 250 cycles. The performance of batteries is found to be strongly influenced by surface area and pore size of the carbon materials. The carbonized tequila bagasse hosting sulfur can be very useful to fabricate cathodes for Li–S batteries with high initial capacity and cycling stability.
Optimizing Sex Ratios of Hyalella azteca to Reduce Variability in Reproduction and Improve Reproductive Toxicity Test Methods
Authors: Khan H. N. , Bartlett A. J. , Kudla Y. M. , Prosser R. S.
Published: November 2023

Standard toxicological test methods with Hyalella azteca incorporate both lethal and sublethal (growth, reproduction) endpoints, although lethal endpoints are often favored in routine testing. However, sublethal endpoints are important to consider because they are ecologically relevant and are often more sensitive than lethality. It is difficult to achieve robust data for reproduction in H. azteca because high biological variability is associated with reproductive yield, likely due to complex interactions in mate selection, which can add to the variability in brood sizes that females produce. In addition, effects on reproduction often co-occur with effects on growth, making it difficult to differentiate effects on growth from those on reproduction in standard tests initiated with juveniles. The present study characterized the reproductive capacity of H. azteca by investigating the role of sex ratios in reproductive yield. Experiments were initiated in the absence of toxicants with sexually mature (6–8-week-old) individuals that were placed in different female-to-male ratios (1:1, 2:3, 3:2, and 7:3). Reproduction was monitored during weekly static renewals for 7 weeks. The results indicated that a higher female:male ratio (seven females to three males) improved reproductive success and lowered biological variability in reproduction. In addition, the body lengths and weights of newly mature amphipods were used to create a size distribution to aid in the identification of small female amphipods. Based on the results of our study, a novel reproductive toxicity test method is proposed that begins with sexually mature amphipods in a ratio of seven females to three males to minimize reproductive variability in amphipods and to enable a more effective assessment of contaminants using reproduction as a highly sensitive endpoint. However, evaluation of this novel method with toxicants is needed to demonstrate that results are comparable to standard methods. Environ Toxicol Chem 2024;43:712–722. © 2023 The Authors. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of SETAC.
Evaluation criteria for artificial intelligence
Authors: Montrosse‐Moorhead Bianca
Published: November 2023

Criteria identify and define the aspects on which what we evaluate is judged and play a central role in evaluation practice. While work on the use of AI in evaluation is burgeoning, at the time of writing, a set of criteria to consider in evaluating the use of AI in evaluation has not been proposed. As a first step in this direction, Teasdale's Criteria Domains Framework was used as the lens through which to critically read articles included in this special issue. This resulted in the identification of eight criteria domains for evaluating the use of AI in evaluation. Three of these criteria domains relate to the conceptualization and implementation of AI in evaluation practice. Five criteria domains are focused on outcomes, specifically those stemming from the use of AI in evaluation. More work is needed to further identify and deliberate possible criteria domains for AI use in evaluation.
Soil organic carbon stocks and belowground biomass in patches in heterogeneous grassland
Authors: Komainda Martin , Mohn Eliana , Kajzrová Klára , Obermeyer Kilian , Titěra Jan , Pavlů Vilém , Isselstein Johannes
Published: November 2023

Background

Selective grazing creates stable patches of contrasting sward height, thereby providing different growth conditions for the grass sward above and below ground and potentially affecting soil organic carbon (SOC) stocks. We hypothesized that the presence of patches leads to greater spatial variability in belowground biomass (BGB) and SOC stocks than occurs between pastures managed under different stocking intensities.

Methods

A long‐term grazing experiment consisting of three stocking intensities was used for this study. We studied BGB, SOC, and soil total nitrogen (Ntot) stocks in the 0–15 cm soil depth. Shannon diversity of plant species, soil bulk density, soil phosphorus, potassium, and magnesium contents were considered.

Results

There were no significant effects of patch or stocking intensity on BGB, SOC, and Ntot stocks. Short patches had a greater Shannon diversity than tall patches (p < 0.05) and plant‐available nutrients in soil correlated positively with sward height (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

We conclude from the current results and previous studies that higher plant species diversity with lower soil nutrient contents in short‐patch areas and higher nutrient contents together with light competition in tall‐patch areas might balance each other out with respect to BGB and SOC stocks.
What is typical: Atypical in young children's attention regulation?: Characterizing the developmental spectrum with the Multidimensional Assessment Profiles—Attention Regulation Infant‐Toddler (MAPS‐AR‐IT) Scale
Authors: Nili Amanda N. , Miller Meghan , Zhang Yudong , Sherlock Philip R. , Burns James L. , Zola Anne , Kaat Aaron , Wakschlag Laurie S. , Krogh‐Jespersen Sheila
Published: November 2023

While attention dysregulation is a promising early indicator of neurodevelopmental risk, in particular attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), it is difficult to characterize clinical concern due to its developmental expectability at the transition to toddlerhood. Thus, explicating the typical:atypical continuum of risk indicators is among the key future directions for research to promote early identification and intervention, and prevent decrements in the attainment of developmental milestones into early childhood. In this paper, we present the Multidimensional Assessment Profiles—Attention Regulation Infant‐Toddler (MAPS‐AR‐IT) Scale, a novel parent‐report survey of dimensional, developmentally specified indicators of attention (dys)regulation. Item Response Theory was employed to characterize the typical:atypical spectrum of both normative and more concerning dysregulation (including the contexts in which behavior occurs). We provide evidence of the validity of this measure in capturing the full typical:atypical spectrum via a longitudinal sample of typically developing children at 12–18 months of age (baseline) via concurrent scores on well‐validated temperament and clinical measures. We also examine longitudinal stability and predictive validity if the MAPS‐AR‐IT via a clinical interview of ADHD symptoms at 24–30 months (follow‐up). While not diagnostic, we present evidence of the utility of the MAPS‐AR‐IT in explicating individual neurodevelopmental risk and elucidating the broader typicality of behaviors related to attention (dys)regulation.
Front Cover
Authors: Juhong Aniwat , Li Bo , Liu Yifan , Yao Cheng‐You , Yang Chia‐Wei , Agnew Dalen W. , Lei Yu Leo , Luker Gary D. , Bumpers Harvey , Huang Xuefei , Piyawattanametha Wibool , Qiu Zhen
Published: November 2023

A deep learning model based on hybrid convolutional and recurrent neural networks is proposed for generating sequential optoacoustic, unmixed optoacoustic of a specific contrast agent, and ultrasound images in order to extend the stack of crosssectional images and reduce acquisition time by approximately 71%.

For further details please visit the article by Aniwat Juhong, Bo Li, Yifan Liu, Cheng‐You Yao, Chia‐Wei Yang, Dalen W. Agnew, Yu Leo Lei, Gary D. Luker, Harvey Bumpers, Xuefei Huang, Wibool Piyawattanametha, and Zhen Qiu (e202300142).

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Inside Cover
Authors: Li Kerui , Wu Qijia , Feng Shiyu , Zhao Hongyou , Jin Wei , Qiu Haixia , Gu Ying , Chen Defu
Published: November 2023

This study explored the feasibility of diffuse reflectance spectroscopy (DRS) for discrimination between brain cancer and noncancer tissues. Our method could achieve a sensitivity of 93% and specificity of 95% for discriminating high‐grade glioma from normal white matter. Our results showed that DRS has the potential to be used for label‐free, real‐time in vivo cancer detection during brain surgery.

For further details please visit the article by Kerui Li, Qijia Wu, Shiyu Feng, Hongyou Zhao, Wei Jin, Haixia Qiu, Ying Gu, and Defu Chen (e202300195).

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Targeting altered calcium homeostasis and uncoupling protein‐2 promotes sensitivity in drug‐resistant breast cancer cells
Authors: Balakrishnan Pavithra , Arasu Ashok , Velusamy Thirunavukkarasu
Published: November 2023

Metastatic breast cancer has the highest mortality rate among women owing to its poor clinical outcomes. Metastatic tumors pose challenges for treatment through conventional surgery or radiotherapy because of their diverse organ localization and resistance to various cytotoxic agents. Chemoresistance is a significant obstacle to effective breast cancer treatment owing to cancer's heterogeneous nature. Abnormalities in intracellular calcium signaling, coupled with altered mitochondrial metabolism, play a significant role in facilitating drug resistance and contribute to therapy resistance. Uncoupling protein‐2 (UCP2) is considered as a marker of chemoresistance and is believed to play a major role in promoting metabolic shifts and tumor metastasis. In this context, it is imperative to understand the roles of altered calcium signaling and metabolic switching in the development of chemotherapeutic resistance. This study investigates the roles of UCP2 and intracellular calcium signaling (Ca2+) in promoting chemoresistance against cisplatin. Additionally, we explored the effectiveness of combining genipin (GP, a compound that reverses UCP2‐mediated chemoresistance) and thapsigargin (TG, a calcium signaling modulator) in treating highly metastatic breast cancers. Our findings indicate that both aberrant Ca2+ signaling and metabolic shifts in cancer cells contribute to developing drug‐resistant phenotypes, and the combination treatment of GP and TG significantly enhances drug sensitivity in these cells. Collectively, our study underscores the potential of these drug combinations as an effective approach to overcome drug resistance in chemoresistant cancers.
Stakeholder influences on management control systems for ESG governance and reporting in the global automotive industry
Authors: Yeh Ting‐Tsen , Xiao Yuanzhang , Daniel Shirley J.
Published: November 2023

Drawing on Simons’ levers of control, we develop a theoretical model to explore the influences of stakeholders (customers, suppliers, employees, regulators, communities, industry associations, and investors) on Management Control Systems for achieving strategic environmental, social, and governance (ESG) objectives. We then test the model using data from over 600 firms in the global automotive industry by linking the eleven largest automotive manufacturers with over 500 of their tier‐1 and tier‐2 suppliers and examining whether stakeholder‐relevant metrics impact supplier retention and whether management compensation is tied to ESG governance. We also examine whether stakeholder influences lead to higher ESG scores. We find that stakeholder‐related metrics for emissions, human rights, customer health, employee empowerment and industry associations are related to management compensation systems tied to ESG. We also find significant linkages between stakeholder influences and ESG scores.
MFN2 regulates progesterone biosynthesis and proliferation of granulosa cells during follicle selection in hens
Authors: Hou Yuanyuan , Hu Jianing , Li Jie , Li Hu , Lu Yangqing , Liu Xingting
Published: November 2023

Follicle selection in hens refers to a biological process that only one small yellow follicle (SYF) is selected daily or near‐daily for following hierarchical development (from F5/F6 to F1) until ovulation. MFN2 is a kind of GTPases located on the mitochondrial outer membrane, which plays a crucial role in mitochondrial fusion. This study aimed to elucidate the role of MFN2 in proliferation and progesterone biosynthesis of granulosa cells (GCs) during follicle selection in hens. The results showed that GCs began to produce progesterone (P4) after follicle selection, accompanied with changes from multi‐layer with flat cells to single layer with cubic cells. MFN2 was detected in GCs of follicles from SYF to F1. After follicle selection, the expression level of MFN2 in GCs upregulated significantly, accompanied with increases in P4 biosynthesis, ATP production, mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) copy numbers of granulosa cells. FSH (80 ng/mL) facilitated the effects of P4 biosynthesis and secretion, ATP production, mtDNA copy numbers, cell proliferation and the MFN2 transcription of granulosa cells from F5 (F5G) in vitro. However, FSH treatment did not promote P4 secretion in granulosa cells from SYF (SYFG) in vitro. Meanwhile, we observed that change fold of MFN2 transcription, ATP production, mtDNA copy numbers and cell proliferation rate in F5G after treatment with FSH were greater than those in SYFG. Furthermore, expression levels of MFN2 protein and messenger RNA in F5G were significantly higher than those in SYFG after treatment with FSH. P4 biosynthesis, ATP production, mtDNA copy numbers as well as cell proliferation reduced significantly in F5G with MFN2 knockdown. Oppositely, P4 biosynthesis, ATP production, mtDNA copy numbers and cell proliferation increased significantly in SYFG after the overexpression of MFN2. Our results suggest that the upregulation of MFN2 may be involved in the initiation of P4 biosynthesis, and promotion of GCs proliferation during follicle selection.
Combined analysis of secreted proteins and glycosylation identifies prognostic features in cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: Park Diane Dayoung , Xu Gege , Park Simon S. , Haigh Nathan E. , Phoomak Chatchai , Wongkham Sopit , Maverakis Emanual , Lebrilla Carlito B.
Published: November 2023

Secreted proteins are overexpressed in cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) and actively involved in promoting metastatic spread. Many of these proteins possess one or more sites of glycosylation and their various glycoforms have potential utility as prognostic or diagnostic biomarkers. To evaluate the effects of secretome glycosylation on patient outcome, we elucidated the glycosylation patterns of proteins secreted by parental and metastatic CCA cells using liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry. Our analysis showed that the secretome of CCA cells was dominated by fucosylated and fucosialylated glycoforms. Based on the glycan and protein profiles, we evaluated the combined prognostic significance of glycosyltransferases and secretory proteins. Significantly, genes encoding fucosyltransferases and sialyltransferases showed favorable prognostic effects when combined with secretory protein‐coding gene expression, particularly thrombospondin‐1. Combining these measures may provide improved risk assessment for CCA and be used to indicate stages of disease progression.
Use of the intrusion angle to describe the radial orientation of local cardiomyocytes in the left ventricle
Authors: Wang Shunli , Li Zhaorui , Yuan Feng , Varray François
Published: November 2023

The projected transverse angle and the nonprojected intrusion angle can be used to describe the radial orientation of local cardiomyocytes in the left ventricle wall, although to date their descriptive relevance has not been demonstrated. This paper compares the evolution of the transverse angle and the intrusion angle in five left ventricle wall samples, and investigates in more detail their respective behaviors when the nonprojected helical angle varies. We show that the intrusion angle avoids the “projection” effect, and contrary to the transverse angle, it remains stable whatever the values taken by the nonprojected helical angle, even when this approaches 90°. The intrusion angle is the better choice, rather than the transverse angle, in describing the radial orientation of local cardiomyocytes. Furthermore, the oscillation of the intrusion angle in the samples is assessed, whose results indicate that the intrusion angle's oscillation amplitude and period are regional and related to the local tissue architecture.
Mismatch of MRI White Matter Hyperintensities and Gait Function in Patients With Cerebral Small Vessel Disease
Authors: Wu Lingshan , Wang Ziyue , Zhou Xirui , Kong Qianqian , Zhang Yi , Xu Shabei , Huang Hao , Luo Xiang
Published: November 2023

Background

Cerebral small vessel disease (CSVD) is closely related to gait disorders. Previous studies have found a negative correlation between the severity of MRI white matter hyperintensities (WMH) and gait speed. However, not every individual with WMH experiences a gait disorder.

Purpose

To investigate the mechanisms underlying the mismatch between the severity of MRI WMH and gait impairment, in particular in subjects with severe WMH (Fazekas 3, scale 0–3) resulting from vascular disease.

Study Type

Cohort.

Population

54 subjects with severe WMH and gait disorder (WMH‐GD; 29 males) and 114 subjects with severe WMH with no gait disorder (WMH‐nGD; 60 males).

Field Strength/Sequence

3T/diffusion tensor imaging (DTI), and T1‐weighted, T2‐weighted, FLAIR, DWI, SWI.

Assessment

Trace‐based spatial statistics analysis (TBSS) approach (fractional anisotropy, FA; mean diffusivity; radial diffusivity; axial diffusivity); Cognitive assessment; Conventional MRI markers of CSVD (WMH, enlarged perivascular spaces, lacunae, and cerebral microbleeds); Gait parameters (gait speed; cadence; stride length; gait cycle duration; step duration; time‐up‐and‐go test, TUG). Gait disorder was defined as a TUG time exceeding 12 sec.

Statistical Tests

The t‐tests, Mann–Whitney U tests, Chi‐square tests, and partial correlation analysis (Pearson or Spearman) were used. P < 0.05 with threshold‐free cluster enhancement corrected was considered statistically significant for TBSS.

Results

After adjusting for age, sex, height, and other conventional MRI markers of CSVD, the WMH‐nGD group showed significantly decreased FA values in the corpus callosum, bilateral superior longitudinal fasciculus, left corona radiata, and left posterior thalamic radiation. There was a significant association between FA values and TUG time, gait speed, and stride length in multiple WM tracts, independent of other conventional CSVD markers.

Data Conclusion

This study provides evidence for microstructural damage of specific fibers in WMH‐GD subjects compared to WMH‐nGD subjects. This may explain the mismatch between WMH and gait impairment in subjects with severe WMH.

Level of Evidence

1

Technical Efficacy

Stage 3
Bioinformatics analysis of gene bhsA and its role in Ca2+‐treated Escherichia coli
Authors: Zhang Zefang , Zhu Ning , Yang Guangrui , Leng Feifan , Wang Yonggang
Published: November 2023

One of the commonly employed methods in molecular biology is to utilize calcium chloride to treat Escherichia coli for the preparation of competent cells to facilitate foreign gene expression. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying Ca2+ mediation of competent cell formation and identification of the key genes involved in the process remain unclear. In previous studies, the combined analysis of transcriptomics and proteomics revealed bhsA as one of the crucial genes. The gene ontology functional annotation of bhsA identified it as a member of the YhcN family encoding an outer membrane protein that confers resistance to various stresses. The IPR0108542 domain found within the protein plays a significant role in stress response and biofilm formation in E. coli. Analysis of the STRING database showed that the proteins interacting with bhsA are primarily involved in biofilm formation and stress resistance. Using the RED homologous recombination method, a bhsA deletion strain was constructed to verify its role in E. coli genetic transformation. Although the mutant strain showed no significant differences in morphology or growth trend when compared to the wild‐type strain, its transformation efficiency decreased by 1.14‐ and 1.64‐fold with plasmids pUC19 and pET‐32a. Furthermore, the 1‐N‐phenylnaphthylamine assay indicated a 1.71‐fold reduction in cell membrane permeability in the mutant strain.