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We argue that institutional brokerage networks facilitate liquidity provision and mitigate the price impact of large non-information-motivated trades. Using commissions, we map trading networks of mutual funds (institutions) and their brokers. Central funds (institutions) tend to outperform their peripheral counterparts in terms of return gap (execution shortfall). This outperformance is more pronounced when funds experience large outflows and for large trades in less liquid stocks. Central brokers can deliver superior trade execution compared to peripheral brokers, but mainly for central institutions. We use the collapse of Lehman Brothers as a quasi-natural experiment to establish the likely causality of our findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Surface acoustic waves (SAWs) on piezoelectric insulators can generate dynamic periodic potentials inside one-dimensional and two-dimensional materials. These periodic potentials have been utilized or proposed for various applications, including acoustoelectric charge pumping. In this study, we investigate acoustoelectric charge pumping in graphene with very low electrostatic disorder. By employing a graphite top gate on boron-nitride-encapsulated graphene, we adjust the graphene carrier concentration over a broad range, enabling us to examine the acoustoelectric signal in both mixed-carrier and single-carrier regimes. We discuss the benefits of h-BN-encapsulated graphene for charge pumping applications and introduce a model that describes the acoustoelectric signal across all carrier concentrations, including at the charge neutrality point. This quantitative model will support future SAW-enabled explorations of phenomena in low-dimensional materials and guide the design of novel SAW sensors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

MiMiC is a framework for performing multiscale simulations in which loosely coupled external programs describe individual subsystems at different resolutions and levels of theory. To make it highly efficient and flexible, we adopt an interoperable approach based on a multiple-program multiple-data (MPMD) paradigm, serving as an intermediary responsible for fast data exchange and interactions between the subsystems. The main goal of MiMiC is to avoid interfering with the underlying parallelization of the external programs, including the operability on hybrid architectures (e.g., CPU/GPU), and keep their setup and execution as close as possible to the original. At the moment, MiMiC offers an efficient implementation of electrostatic embedding quantum mechanics/molecular mechanics (QM/MM) that has demonstrated unprecedented parallel scaling in simulations of large biomolecules using CPMD and GROMACS as QM and MM engines, respectively. However, as it is designed for high flexibility with general multiscale models in mind, it can be straightforwardly extended beyond QM/MM. In this article, we illustrate the software design and the features of the framework, which make it a compelling choice for multiscale simulations in the upcoming era of exascale high-performance computing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Why do organizations conduct job interviews? The traditional view of interviewing holds that interviews are conducted, despite their steep costs, to predict a candidate's future performance and fit. This view faces a twofold threat: the behavioral and algorithmic threats. Specifically, an overwhelming body of behavioral research suggests that we are bad at predicting performance and fit; furthermore, algorithms are already better than us at making these predictions in various domains. If the traditional view captures the whole story, then interviews seem to be a costly, archaic human resources procedure sustained by managerial overconfidence. However, building on T. M. Scanlon's work, we offer the value of choice theory of interviewing and argue that interviews can be vindicated once we recognize that they generate commonly overlooked kinds of noninstrumental value. On our view, interviews should thus not be entirely replaced by algorithms, however sophisticated algorithms ultimately become at predicting performance and fit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ryabinkin–Kohut–Staroverov (RKS) theory builds a bridge between wave function theory and density functional theory by using quantities from the former to produce accurate exchange-correlation potentials needed by the latter. In this work, the RKS method is developed and tested alongside Slater atomic orbital basis functions for the first time. To evaluate this approach, full configuration interaction computations in the Slater orbital basis are employed to give quality input to RKS, allowing full correlation to be present along with correct nuclei cusps and asymptotic decay of the wavefunction. SlaterRKS is shown to be an efficient algorithm to arrive at exchange-correlation potentials without unphysical artifacts in moderately-sized basis sets. Furthermore, enforcement of the nuclear cusp conditions will be shown to be vital for the success of the Slater-basis RKS method. Examples of weakly and strongly correlated molecular systems will demonstrate the main features of SlaterRKS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Poor comprehension of prostate cancer (PCa) medical terms can create barriers to PCa treatment discussions. The authors measured comprehension of PCa terms and its relationship to health literacy in a group of Black men who were newly diagnosed with PCa. They examined whether tailoring communication with alternative colloquial words would be helpful and acceptable. Methods: Patients were recruited from urology clinics (N = 152). After they met with their providers to discuss PCa treatment options, they participated in an educational supplement delivered as a structured interview. The supplement tailored PCa treatment information by allowing men to choose between colloquial and medical terms for genitourinary (GU) function. Health literacy was measured using the Rapid Estimate of Adult Literacy in Medicine, and comprehension of common PCa terms was assessed using published methods. Pearson correlation was used to estimate the association between health literacy and comprehension of PCa terms. Spearman rank correlation (r) was used to assess the relation between the total number of medical terms preferred (range, 0–10) and Rapid Estimate of Adult Literacy in Medicine scores (range, 0–66). Results: Most patients (62%) had low health literacy, which was strongly correlated with their understanding of PCa terms (r = 0.526; p <.001). Poor comprehension of many PCa terms established the need to use alternative language for GU function (only 20% knew the word incontinence). There was a statistically significant positive association between the number of medical terms preferred and health literacy (r = 0.358; p <.001). A majority of patients (91%) preferred a mixture of medical and colloquial terms. Conclusions: Tailoring communications with colloquial terms for GU function was preferred by most patients regardless of health literacy. Poor comprehension of common prostate cancer terms for genitourinary function creates health literacy barriers to treatment discussions. Tailoring medical terms with alternative colloquial words preferred by patients was helpful regardless of health literacy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We explore the potential of using the low-redshift Lyman |$\alpha$| (Ly  |$\alpha$|⁠) forest surrounding luminous red galaxies (LRGs) as a tool to constrain active galactic nuclei (AGNs) feedback models. Our analysis is based on snapshots from the Illustris and IllustrisTNG simulations at a redshift of |$z=0.1$|⁠. These simulations offer an ideal platform for studying the influence of AGN feedback on the gas surrounding galaxies, as they share the same initial conditions and underlying code but incorporate different feedback prescriptions. Both simulations show significant impacts of feedback on the temperature and density of the gas around massive haloes. Following our previous work, we adjusted the UV background in both simulations to align with the observed number density of Ly  |$\alpha$| lines (⁠|$\rm dN/dz$|⁠) in the intergalactic medium and study the Ly  |$\alpha$| forest around massive haloes hosting LRGs, at impact parameters (⁠|$r_{\perp }$|⁠) ranging from 0.1 to 100 pMpc. Our findings reveal that |$\rm dN/dz$|⁠ , as a function of |$r_{\perp }$|⁠ , is approximately 1.5 to 2 times higher in IllustrisTNG compared to Illustris up to |$r_{\perp }$| of |$\sim 10$| pMpc. To further assess whether existing data can effectively discern these differences, we search for archival data containing spectra of background quasars probing foreground LRGs. Through a feasibility analysis based on these data, we demonstrate that |${\rm dN/dz} (r_{\perp })$| measurements can distinguish between feedback models of IllustrisTNG and Illustris with a precision exceeding 16 |$\sigma$|⁠. This underscores the potential of |${\rm dN/dz} (r_{\perp })$| measurements around LRGs as a valuable benchmark observation for discriminating between different feedback models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Upwards of ninety percent of individuals living with depression in India do not have access to evidence-based treatments, especially in rural areas. Integrating these treatments into primary care is essential for bridging this care gap. This trial aims to evaluate whether a remote coaching implementation support strategy, referred to as Enhanced Implementation Support, is superior to routine support, referred to as Routine Implementation Support, in supporting the delivery of collaborative depression care in rural primary care centers. Methods: Employing a cluster-randomized hybrid type-III implementation trial design, 14 primary care facilities in Sehore district, Madhya Pradesh, will implement a collaborative depression care package based on the WHO’s mhGAP program. Facilities will be randomized to either Enhanced Implementation Support or the Routine Implementation Support control condition. Enhanced Implementation Support consists of remote coaching and technical assistance, supplemented with in-person visits, and guided by the Plan-Do-Study-Act implementation cycles. The primary implementation outcome is the proportion of outpatients screened for depression by facility staff, with secondary outcomes including the proportions of outpatients who screen positive for depression, are referred to the medical officer, and initiate treatment. Secondary patient outcomes include proportion of patients who achieve reduction in depression symptom severity at 3-month follow up. Acceptability, feasibility, and fidelity of the depression care package will be assessed through routine observations collected during field visits, facility audits, and qualitative exit interviews with facility staff. Costs of delivering the Enhanced Implementation Support strategy will also be estimated. Discussion: This trial can inform efforts to integrate depression care in rural primary care facilities in a low-resource setting, and illuminate whether external coaching support is superior relative to existing implementation support for achieving these goals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent radio surveys have revealed pulsars with dispersion and scattering delays induced by ionized gas that are larger than the rest of the observed pulsar population, in some cases with electron column densities (or dispersion measures, DMs) larger than the maximum predictions of Galactic electron density models. By cross-matching the observed pulsar population against H ii region catalogs, we show that the majority of pulsars with DM > 600 pc cm−3 and scattering delays τ (1 GHz) > 10 ms lie behind H ii regions, and that H ii region intersections may be relevant to as much as a third of the observed pulsar population. The fraction of the full pulsar population with sightlines intersecting H ii regions is likely larger. Accounting for H ii regions resolves apparent discrepancies where Galactic electron density models place high-DM pulsars beyond the Galactic disk. By comparing emission measures inferred from recombination line observations to pulsar DMs, we show that H ii regions can contribute tens to hundreds of parsecs per cubic centimeter in electron column density along a pulsar line of sight. We find that nearly all pulsars with significant excess (and deficit) scattering from the mean τ –DM relation are spatially coincident with known discrete ionized gas structures, including H ii regions. Accounting for H ii regions is critical to the interpretation of radio dispersion and scattering measurements as electron density tracers, both in the Milky Way and in other galaxies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aqueous sodium (Na+) ion storage systems face challenges due to sluggish adsorption and diffusion of Na+ ions with larger size, hindering their potential for stationary applications. This issue is addressed by evolving the interfacial electronic coupling in atomically thin 2D WO3/WSe2 heterostructure for efficient Na+ ion storage. Density functional theory (DFT) analysis elucidates the superior charge storage capability for the WO3/WSe2 heterostructure facilitated by the charge transfer from the WO3 – WSe2 (002). The charge transfer from the W‐5d and O‐2p orbitals of WO3 to the valence W‐5d and Se‐4p orbitals of the WSe2 (002) surface boosts the electronic conductivity. As a result, the WO3/WSe2 electrode demonstrates exceptional Na+ ion storage, with a specific capacitance of 378.1 F g−1 at 1 A g−1, excellent rate capability, and long‐lasting cycling durability. The full cell comprising WO3/WSe2 as the negative and MnSe/MnSe2 as the positive electrode achieved a peak energy density of 82.1 Wh kg−1 at a power density of 1873.5 W kg−1, along with high rate capability and long‐cycle durability. Insights gained from this study pave the technique for the rational design and optimization of the interfacial electronic features in 2D heterostructures for next‐generation energy storage devices with enhanced performance and stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bactofilins are rigid, nonpolar bacterial cytoskeletal filaments that link cellular processes to specific curvatures of the cytoplasmic membrane. Although homologs of bactofilins have been identified in archaea and eukaryotes, functional studies have remained confined to bacterial systems. Here, we characterize representatives of two families of archaeal bactofilins from the pleomorphic archaeon Haloferax volcanii, halofilin A (HalA) and halofilin B (HalB). HalA and HalB polymerize in vitro, assembling into straight bundles. HalA polymers are highly dynamic and accumulate at positive membrane curvatures in vivo, whereas HalB forms more static foci that localize in areas of local negative curvatures on the outer cell surface. Gene deletions and live-cell imaging show that halofilins are critical in maintaining morphological integrity during shape transition from disk (sessile) to rod (motile). Morphological defects in ΔhalA result in accumulation of highly positive curvatures in rods but not in disks. Conversely, disk-shaped cells are exclusively affected by halB deletion, resulting in flatter cells. Furthermore, while ΔhalA and ΔhalB cells imprecisely determine the future division plane, defects arise predominantly during the disk-to-rod shape remodeling. The deletion of halA in the haloarchaeon Halobacterium salinarum, whose cells are consistently rod-shaped, impacted morphogenesis but not cell division. Increased levels of halofilins enforced drastic deformations in cells devoid of the S-layer, suggesting that HalB polymers are more stable at defective S-layer lattice regions. Our results suggest that halofilins might play a significant mechanical scaffolding role in addition to possibly directing envelope synthesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Autistic people who cannot speak risk being underestimated. Their inability to speak, along with other unconventional behaviors and mannerisms, can give rise to limiting assumptions about their capacities, including their capacity to acquire literacy. In this preregistered study, we developed a task to investigate whether autistic adolescents and adults with limited or no phrase speech (N = 31) have learned English orthographic conventions. Participants played a game that involved tapping sequentially pulsing targets on an iPad as quickly as they could. Three patterns in their response times suggest they know how to spell: (a) They were faster to tap letters of the alphabet that pulsed in sequences that spelled sentences than letters or nonsense symbols that pulsed in closely matched but meaningless sequences; (b) they responded more quickly to pairs of letters in meaningful sequences the more often the letters co-occur in English; and (c) they spontaneously paused before tapping the first pulsing letter of a new word. These findings suggest that nonspeaking autistic people can acquire foundational literacy skills. With appropriate instruction and support, it might be possible to harness these skills to provide nonspeaking autistic people access to written forms of communication as an alternative to speech. Many autistic people who do not talk cannot tell other people what they know or what they are thinking. As a result, they might not be able to go to the schools they want, share feelings with friends, or get jobs they like. It might be possible to teach them to type on a computer or tablet instead of talking. But first, they would have to know how to spell. Some people do not believe that nonspeaking autistic people can learn to spell. We did a study to see if they can. We tested 31 autistic teenagers and adults who do not talk much or at all. They played a game on an iPad where they had to tap flashing letters. After they played the game, we looked at how fast they tapped the letters. They did three things that people who know how to spell would do. First, they tapped flashing letters faster when the letters spelled out sentences than when the letters made no sense. Second, they tapped letters that usually go together faster than letters that do not usually go together. This shows that they knew some spelling rules. Third, they paused before tapping the first letter of a new word. This shows that they knew where one word ended and the next word began. These results suggest that many autistic people who do not talk can learn how to spell. If they are given appropriate opportunities, they might be able to learn to communicate by typing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aeroplane crashing is a major concern for aviation safety. This article aim is to control aeroplane crashing through aviation infrastructure by using Multi-Agent Technology (MAT). For this 6 variables of aeroplane crashing, 20 variables of aviation infrastructure and 34 variables of MAT are extracted from the literatureto develop the information framework for the study. Fuzzy Multi-Criteria Decision-Making (FMCDM) technique is utilised to analyse prioritise, ranking, and identify interrelationship among them. The human error is evolved most significant factor of aeroplane crashing followed by others. For aviation infrastructure, runway is found to be the most important variable in global ranking. Whereas, in MAT pilot assistance agent is most prioritised variable in overall ranking. The proposed framework can assist the aviation industry to understand the behaviour of aviation infrastructure and MAT variables to control aeroplane crashing. The results of this study can be utilised by aviation professionals in improving aviation safety. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the wake of the digital revolution transforming the landscape of higher education, e-learning has emerged as a pivotal model for knowledge dissemination, reshaping traditional pedagogical methodologies and fostering an unprecedented transition to virtual learning environments. This transformative shift, necessitated by global crises and the rapid evolution of technology, has spotlighted the urgency to evaluate and enhance the effectiveness and user satisfaction of online learning platforms. Particularly in the context of Indian higher education, where the demographic expanse and diverse educational needs present unique challenges and opportunities, understanding the drivers of student satisfaction in e-learning is paramount. This empirical investigation explores the factors influencing students' satisfaction with online education in Indian universities and higher education institutions. Data were collected from 460 postgraduates and undergraduates across 30 institutions offering programs in management, engineering, and commerce. Utilizing Structural Equation Modeling, the study identified key variables impacting learner satisfaction: learner inspiration and motivation, potential obstacles to e-learning, group and professor interaction, and the use of technology (including AI and other tools) in e-learning. Results indicate that potential obstacles to e-learning and the integration of technology had the most significant impact on student satisfaction, emphasizing the importance of overcoming barriers and leveraging technology effectively in e-learning environments. This study offers insights for higher education institutions seeking to enhance virtual learning experiences and underscores the imperative of addressing technological challenges to ensure sustained student satisfaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: This study is aimed to compare the outcomes of the two techniques (endoscopic single flap tympanoplasty- ESFT versus endoscopic double flap tympanoplasty - EDFT) of endoscopic tympanoplasty for repairing large tympanic membrane (TM)perforations with limited anterior remnant. Methodology: In this randomised controlled trial, forty patients with large sized TM perforations were included and randomised in the ESFT and EDFT arms with twenty patients in each group. Both the groups underwent endoscopic tympanoplasty using temporalis fascia graft. The graft uptake rates and hearing results were compared. Results: Graft success rate was 85% (17/20 cases) in the ESFT group and 90%(18/20 cases) in the EDFT group. The ABG (air-bone gap) improvement median with interquartile range(IQR) was 5 dB (3.12 dB-10 dB) in the ESFT group and 8.75 dB (5dB-11.87 dB) in the EDFT group. The difference was not statistically significant. Conclusions: In our study, there was no statistically significant difference in the graft success rate or hearing gain in ESFT or EDFT group. Moreover, there was longer operative time and need for an extra incision while raising the anterior flap. This lack of statistically significant results in our study may be since the study has a very small sample size. Whether the same conclusion is reproducible needs to be further explored by a larger sized randomised controlled trial. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The term Ergonomics is derived from two Greek words "Ergos" meaning work and "nomos" meaning laws. So, Ergonomics in simple term means "laws of work". It actually concerns with optimizing the relations between a worker and his work of environment. Ergonomics is a science that studies workplaces with the aim to optimise the interaction between the worker, equipment, task and the environment (Campbell in Ergonomics in otorhinolaryngology. Ent and audiology news, 2024) Workplace ergonomics is a poorly understood subject when it comes to medical professionals. Musculo- skeletal disorders (MSD) are one of the commonest occupational health problem for surgeons. Though, Ergonomics apply to every surgeon/medical professional, this article will in specifically discuss the importance of understanding ergonomics for ENT (otolaryngologists) surgeons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Endoscopic middle ear surgery can be utilized to visualize and excise retraction pockets without the need for extensive bone work and removal of lateral bone. To evaluate the role of endoscope in the management of squamosal type of chronic otitis media. A total of 25 adults subjects (male = 12, female = 13) in the age group of 18–55 years suffering with chronic otitis media were operated by transcanal endoscopic approach. High resolution computed tomography of temporal bone was done to help identify the anatomy and underlying extent of disease. All patients were operated by transcanal endoscopic technique. The study concluded that the endoscope gives a better visualization of the middle ear and its hidden areas. The extensive bone work and associated cavity related problems can be avoided and normal anatomy can be preserved with the help of endoscopic ear surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Intraorbital wooden foreign body is uncommon in patients with orbital trauma, and if present its complete surgical removal at the earliest is of utmost importance to avoid significant complications. We report an interesting case of an intraorbital wooden foreign body that was succesfully removed using a nasal endoscope. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 44-year-old patient presented with hoarseness of voice and a polypoidal lesion on the left vocal cord. Complete excision was done. To our knowledge, this is the second reported case of molluscum contagiosum of the vocal cords. It should be considered as a differential diagnosis of a vocal cord lesion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives To assess the use of a co-designed patient-reported outcome (PRO) clinical dashboard and estimate its impact on shared decision-making (SDM) and symptomatology in adults with advanced cancer or chronic kidney disease (CKD). Materials and Methods We developed a clinical PRO dashboard within the Northwestern Medicine Patient-Reported Outcomes system, enhanced through co-design involving 20 diverse constituents. Using a single-group, pretest-posttest design, we evaluated the dashboard's use among patients with advanced cancer or CKD between June 2020 and January 2022. Eligible patients had a visit with a participating clinician, completed at least two dashboard-eligible visits, and consented to follow-up surveys. PROs were collected 72 h prior to visits, including measures for chronic condition management self-efficacy, health-related quality of life (PROMIS measures), and SDM (collaboRATE). Responses were integrated into the EHR dashboard and accessible to clinicians and patients. Results We recruited 157 participants: 66 with advanced cancer and 91 with CKD. There were significant improvements in SDM from baseline, as assessed by collaboRATE scores. The proportion of participants reporting the highest level of SDM on every collaboRATE item increased by 15 percentage points from baseline to 3 months, and 17 points between baseline and 6-month follow-up. Additionally, there was a clinically meaningful decrease in anxiety levels over study period (T -score baseline: 53; 3-month: 52; 6-month: 50; P  < .001), with a standardized response mean (SRM) of −0.38 at 6 months. Discussion PRO clinical dashboards, developed and shared with patients, may enhance SDM and reduce anxiety among patients with advanced cancer and CKD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ring penetrometer is a shallow rotational penetrometer that has been developed to characterise the mechanical behaviour of surficial marine sediments. The strain-rate dependency of soils is crucial to the design of a wide range of offshore geotechnical infrastructure founded in the upper layers of the seabed (e.g. pipelines, cables and shallow foundations). This paper explores the potential application of a ring penetrometer test to measure the strain-rate dependency of the interface friction generated in soft soils at low stresses. Large-deformation numerical models of the test are developed using an elastoplastic constitutive model and a viscoplastic variant with strain softening. Using parameters representative of kaolin clay and a calcareous silt from an offshore location, the numerical analyses demonstrate a clear and measurable influence of both the viscous and strain-softening behaviours on the device–soil interface friction. These simulations were used to design suitable experimental protocols for multi-rate ring penetrometer tests, the results of which yielded a strain-rate dependency of 9–16% and 22–26% per log cycle in the kaolin clay and calcareous silt, respectively, which compare favourably with measurements derived from T-bar twitch experiments. Finally, models are presented that can be applied in the interpretation of varying-rate ring penetrometer test data for application in practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Prospective studies comparing quality-of-life and olfaction in patients undergoing endoscopic uni-nostril versus bi-nostril trans-sphenoidal pituitary surgery have not been published. Methods We prospectively compared olfaction and quality-of-life at baseline and at 3 to 6 months follow-up using the Anterior Skull Base Nasal Inventory-12 (ASK-12) questionnaire, composite olfaction score, and Lund–Kennedy Endoscopic Score (LKES) in 43 patients who underwent endoscopic excision of pituitary adenoma with either a uni-nostril (24 patients) or a bi-nostril (19 patients) approach. Results Baseline data for both groups were comparable. In the uni-nostril group, ASK-12 and LKES scores were not significantly different at follow-up when compared with the preoperative scores. In the bi-nostril group, there was a significant postoperative worsening of ASK-12 scores (mean: 3.2 vs. 5.3; p = 0.04) and the LKES (mean: 2.9 vs. 6.6; p = 0.01). Composite olfaction score was not significantly affected postoperatively with either approach. Nasal complications were also more in the bi-nostril group (5/18, 27.8% vs. 1/23, 4.3%) but this was not statistically significant (p = 0.07). Conclusion Both approaches preserve olfactory function but the uni-nostril approach is associated with better postoperative quality-of-life and endoscopic scores and subjective olfaction outcomes. At least in short term, the postoperative morbidity is higher in the bi-nostril approach compared with the uni-nostril approach. Although preference for a particular approach is related to a surgeon's preference, preoperative counselling of the patients regarding sinonasal morbidity is important. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study examines the design and numerical analysis of induction hardened of Inconel 718 superalloys on the tensile properties. The two tensile specimens (IHT1 & IHT2)'s outside surfaces are heated to temperatures of 850 and 1000 °C. The heated samples are then quenched in oil. The samples are evaluated utilizing a 250kN capacity servo hydraulic universal test at ambient temperature and an enhanced temperature of 800 °C. At both room temperature and a raised temperature of 800 °C, the metrics yield strength (YS), ultimate tensile strength (UTS), and elongation of induction hardened sample have risen. Induction-hardened materials have better mechanical characteristics than non-induction-hardened samples, according to numerical results from ANSYS Workbench that are corroborated with experimental data. The results of the tensile test's cracked surfaces under a scanning electron microscope (SEM) show that the presence of shallow dimple structure at 800 °C caused transgranular cleavage and intergranular dimple rupture as the modes of failure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ductility of a retained austenite (RA)‐bearing steel is conventionally correlated with the gradual transformation of RA into martensite during straining, i.e., transformation‐induced plasticity (TRIP) mechanism. Nevertheless, current experiments and mathematical calculations illustrate that most of the RA transformed into martensite at quite an early stage of tensile straining. The result shows that only 4% of leftover RA exists after the initial tensile loading. It looks like enough RA is not available to operate TRIP to obtain successive ductility in the steel. Inexplicably, current work exhibits the maximum uniform tensile elongation after the major martensite transformation, which contradicts the conventional TRIP‐driven ductility theory. Thus, only 4% RA could be one of the prime factors that operate unfailingly to impart ductility in the steel. This work has created an understanding of the possible factors responsible for the observed ductility in the current steel while TRIP is not operating. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The neurovascular conflict (NVC) causing hemifacial spasm (HFS) can also cause compression of ventrolateral medulla (VLM) which contains the central sympathetic neurons. VLM compression has been associated with hypertension. Whether the VLM compression in HFS patients is associated with hypertension is not clear. Objective: To determine the frequency, severity of VLM compression and its association with hypertension in HFS patients. Methods: A cross-sectional, hospital-based, case control study and recruited 120 study subjects (50 cases of primary HFS, 30 hypertensive and 40 normotensive age-, sex- matched controls). The VLM compression was assessed in magnetic resonance imaging Constructive Interference in Steady State (CISS) 3D sequences. Results: Hypertension was present in 30 cases (60%). Six patients with HFS (20%) were detected to be hypertensive after the onset of HFS. VLM compression was seen in 24 cases (48%), 7 hypertensive controls (23.3%) and 5 normotensive controls (10%) (p = 0.03). Twenty-four patients with hypertension had VLM compression and remaining 6 patients with hypertension did not have VLM compression (80% vs 20%; p = 0.02). Normotensive patients did not have VLM compression. Vertebral artery was the most common artery causing VLM compression (22 patients; 7 hypertensive and 5 normotensive controls). Conclusion: VLM compression is more common in HFS patients as compared to hypertensive and normotensive controls. It is more common in hypertensive HFS patients in comparison with normotensive HFS patients. Microvascular decompression is an option in hypertensive HFS patients with VLM compression if the hypertension is medically refractory. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Secondary amyloidosis (AA) is a disorder of protein conformation associated with inflammatory disorders. Detailed reports of patients diagnosed with AA and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are limited. This study reports the cases of eight patients, across three tertiary medical centers, diagnosed with both IBD and AA between 2000 and 2020. Seven patients had a diagnosis of Crohn disease (CD), while one had ulcerative colitis (UC). All patients were diagnosed with AA after being diagnosed with IBD (median: 15 years later). The small bowel (62.5%) and the colon (62.5%) were the most common IBD locations. 4 patients had undergone TNF-alpha inhibitor therapy and all CD patients required surgical treatment of their IBD. A history of fistula or abscess was identified in 5 patients. The most common initial site of AA was the kidney (75%). All 8 patients presented with some form of renal dysfunction and proteinuria (median: 1500 mg/24 h). Hypoalbuminemia was found in most patients. Six patients developed chronic kidney disease and 4 required dialysis. Anti TNF-alpha antibody therapy led to rapid improvement of renal function in one of four patients who received it. Three patients required a renal transplant. Four patients had died upon the latest follow-up (5-year survival: 75%). The presence of proteinuria, fistula, or abscess should serve as indicators for potentially increased AA risk in CD patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bubble plumes play a significant role in the air–sea interface by influencing processes such as air–sea gas exchange, aerosol production, modulation of oceanic carbon and nutrient cycles, and the vertical structure of the upper ocean. Using acoustic Doppler current profiler (ADCP) data collected off the west coast of Ireland, we investigate the dynamics of bubble plumes and their relationship with sea state variables. In particular, we describe the patterns of bubble plume vertical extension, duration, and periodicity. We establish a power-law relationship between the average bubble penetration depth and wind speed, consistent with previous findings. Additionally, the study reveals a significant association between whitecapping coverage and observed acoustic volume backscatter intensity, underscoring the role of wave breaking in bubble plume generation. The shape of the probability distribution of bubble plume depths reveals a transition toward stronger and more organized bubble entrainment events during higher wind speeds. Furthermore, we show that deeper bubble plumes are associated with turbulent Langmuir number Lat ∼ 0.3, highlighting the potential role of Langmuir circulation on the transport and deepening of bubble plumes. These results contribute to a better understanding of the complex interactions between ocean waves, wind, and bubble plumes, providing valuable insights for improving predictive models and enhancing our understanding of air–sea interactions. Significance Statement: This research contributes to understanding bubble plume dynamics in the upper ocean and their relationship with sea state variables. The establishment of a power-law relationship between the bubble penetration depth and wind speed, along with the association between whitecapping coverage and acoustic backscatter intensity, contributes to improved predictive capabilities for air–sea interactions and carbon dioxide exchange. The identification of the potential influence of Langmuir circulation on bubble plume dynamics expands our understanding of the role of coherent circulations in transporting bubble plumes. Additionally, this study presents a clear methodology using commercial sensors such as an ADCP, which can be easily replicated by researchers worldwide, leading to potential advancements in our comprehension of bubble plume dynamics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report our technique and experience treating 3 patients with native abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) sac expansion following EVAR, who were managed with transarterial embolisation via the deep circumflex iliac artery (DCIA). In this case series, we demonstrate that transarterial embolisation via the DCIA is a feasible and safe treatment option. The DCIA should be routinely interrogated with angiography as not only a cause of possible Type II endoleak, but also to identify a potential access route to the abdominal aortic sac for interventional treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wheat is a vital crop, providing calories, nutrients and versatility in the food industry. However, the combination of heat and drought stress, exacerbated by climate change, poses a significant threat to wheat production, leading to potential yield losses. To ensure the sustainability of wheat production it is crucial to prioritize research on developing stress-tolerant wheat genotypes. The current study focused on identifying the traits that are important for developing stress-tolerant wheat varieties under timely sown irrigated, drought stress, heat stress, and combined stress conditions. It addresses the knowledge gap regarding the combined effects of heat and drought stress on wheat physiology and yield, aiming to shed light on the intricate interactions between these stresses. The experiment was conducted at CCS HAU, Hisar, during the Rabi seasons of 2019–2020 and 2020–2021. By evaluating variability parameters, conducting correlation analysis, and path coefficient analysis among 80 diverse wheat genotypes, this research identifies genetic factors contributing to stress tolerance and helps select plants with desirable characteristics. The results showed that traits i.e., malendialdehyde, wax covering on blade, wax covering on sheath and wax covering on spike had high potential for improvement through selection among genotypes for grain yield and its component traits. The study also highlighted the importance of selecting wheat varieties with early maturity to mitigate the risk of yield loss under combined stress conditions. Moreover, the interaction between drought and heat stress can increase oxidative stress, leading to elevated malondialdehyde levels. Selecting varieties with lower malondialdehyde and optimal canopy temperature is important. Understanding the complex response of wheat to heat, drought, and their combined stress is essential for improving crop quality and production potential. Overall, this research contributes to the field of plant breeding by facilitating the development of wheat varieties with high and stable yields in challenging environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Surgery remains debatable in para-aortic lymph node (PALN, station 16b1) metastasis in non-pancreatic periampullary cancer (NPPAC). This study examined the impact of PALN metastasis on outcomes following pancreaticoduodenectomy (PD) in NPPAC. Methods: A retrospective analysis of patients with NPPAC who were explored for PD with PALN dissection was performed. Based on the extent of nodal involvement on final histopathology, they were stratified as node-negative (N0), regional node involved (N+) and metastatic PALN (N16+) and their outcomes were compared. Results: Between 2011 and 2022, 153/887 PD patients underwent a PALN dissection, revealing N16+ in 42 patients (27.4%), of whom 32 patients underwent resection. The 3-years overall survival (OS) for patients with N16+ was 28% (95% confidence interval [CI] 13–60%), notably lower than the 67% (95% CI 53–83.5%; p = 0.007) for those without PALN metastasis. Stratified by nodal involvement, the median OS for N+ and N16+ patients was similar (28.4 months and 26.2 months, respectively). The N0 subgroup had a significantly longer 3-years OS of 87.5% (95% CI 79–96.7%; p = 0.0051). Interestingly, 10 patients not offered resection following N16+ identified on frozen section had a median survival of only 9 months. The perioperative morbidity and mortality in patients undergoing PD with PALN dissection were similar to standard resections. Conclusion: In a select group of patients with NPPAC, PD in isolated PALN metastasis was associated with improved OS. The survival in this group of patients was comparable with regional node-positive patients and significantly better than palliative treatment alone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Outside of clinical trials, real-world data of advanced gastric cancers (AGCs) managed with perioperative or adjuvant chemotherapy with a backbone of D2 lymphadenectomy is limited. Patients and Methods: Curative resections for gastric adenocarcinoma between January 2003 and January 2020 at the Tata Memorial Centre were analyzed, comparing three time periods marking major increments in annual gastric resections (GRs). Results: 1657 radical gastric resections were performed with a morbidity and mortality rate of 34.9% and 1.4%, respectively. Over three consecutive periods, the number of annual GRs increased from 56/year to 97/year to 156/year (P < 0.001) with a significant escalation in surgical magnitude and complexity. Improvement in surgical quality indicators (median lymph node yield from 15 to 25, P < 0.001 and margin negativity from 8.2 to 5.5%, P = 0.002) was observed with no corresponding increase in severe complications (6.9%) or mortality (1.4%). The proportion of distal and signet ring cancers was found to decrease over time, with an increase in proximal cancers and younger age at presentation. Overall, 90% of GRs were for AGCs with a median overall survival (OS) of 4.4 years (± 6 months), and 5-year OS rate of 47.6% (± 1.9%). Conclusions: Change in pattern of tumor characteristics was observed. Aggressive treatment options for AGC were employed progressively with excellent survival. With increase in volumes, improvements in surgical quality indicators, and a relative improvement in postoperative mortality was observed. These results provide a roadmap for developing dedicated gastric cancer centers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The demand for electricity is increasing tremendously globally with the development of countries. To fulfill the supply of electricity, many countries have already adopted renewable energy sources. The production of electricity from hydraulic energy sources is one of the oldest methods. The axial flow water turbine can efficiently generate energy from the water flow with a very low head. The current investigation is focused on enhancing the performance of the axial turbine by providing an enclosure around the rotor. The initial experiments were carried out with only the upstream enclosure. The optimized upstream enclosure was taken with different lengths of downstream enclosure for further investigations. The current investigation concluded that the maximum efficiency using only an upstream enclosure is 89.48%, which is around 3.20% higher compared with the bare turbine. The optimum efficiency was found at upstream-side length ratio (ULR)=0.46 (upstream enclosure length LU=40 mm). With using the optimum ULR=0.46 , the maximum efficiency for the downstream enclosure was found at downstream-side length ratio (DLR)=0.23 (downstream enclosure length LD=20 mm). The highest efficiency value for this axial runner was obtained at 90.89%, which is 4.83% higher compared with the bare turbine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To assess the effects of immunotherapy compared to chemotherapy as first‐ and second‐line treatment of advanced or metastatic urothelial carcinoma. Methods: Based on a published protocol, we performed a systematic search of multiple databases. Two review authors independently performed the literature selection, identified relevant studies, assessed the eligibility of studies for inclusion, and extracted data. We performed statistical analyses using a random‐effects model and assessed the quality of the evidence on a per‐outcome basis according to the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) approach. Results: We included five randomised controlled trials and also identified seven single‐arm studies. When used as first‐line therapy, immunotherapy probably has little to no effect on the risk of death from any cause compared to chemotherapy (hazard ratio [HR] 0.97, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.87–1.07; moderate‐certainty evidence). immunotherapy probably has little to no effect on health‐related quality of life (mean difference [MD] 4.10, 95% CI 3.83–4.37; moderate). Immunotherapy probably reduces grade 3–5 adverse events (risk ratio [RR] 0.47, 95% CI 0.29–0.75; moderate). In the second‐line setting immunotherapy may reduce the risk of death from any cause (HR 0.72, 95% CI 0.63–0.81; low). Immunotherapy may have little to no effect on health‐related quality of life when compared to chemotherapy (MD 4.82, 95% CI −3.11 to 12.75; low). Immunotherapy may reduce grade 3–5 adverse events (RR 0.89, 95% CI 0.81–0.97; low). Conclusions: Compared to chemotherapy, immunotherapy has little to no effect on the risk of death from any cause in a first‐line setting. Nevertheless, it may reduce the risk of death from any cause when used as second‐line therapy. The health‐related quality of life of participants receiving first‐ and second‐line therapy does not appear to be affected by immunotherapy. Immunotherapy probably reduces or may reduce grade 3–5 adverse events when used as first‐ and second‐line therapy, respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Functionally multilayered environmental barrier coatings (EBCs) with the desired layer sequence of Yb2O3/Yb2SiO5/Yb2Si2O7/SiO2/Si were obtained using an unconventional yet simple technique of reactive sintering. Yb2O3 slurry was sprayed on polycrystalline silicon (used as a bond coat for SiCf/SiC composites) and reactive sintered to generate graded layers that provide a combination of mitigated thermal expansion mismatch as well as silica activity. The Yb2O3‐terpineol slurry produced a uniform deposit of the Yb2O3 topcoat. Reactive sintering of exploratory coatings (t ∼ 10–20 µm) was carried out in air by varying the temperature (1100–1400°C) and time (2–24 h). X‐ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy‐energy‐dispersive spectroscopy technique confirmed the in situ formation of X2‐Yb2SiO5 and β‐Yb2Si2O7. Rietveld refinement was performed to know the volume fractions of the respective phases. The set of process parameters identified from the preliminary work was employed to fabricate EBCs with thickness ∼ 250 µm. The X2‐Yb2SiO5 and β‐Yb2Si2O7 phases formed next to the Si/SiO2 interface as two separate layers. Post‐sintering heat treatments in air at 1300, 1350, and 1400°C for 3–50 h elucidated the growth characteristics of the oxide layers to be a function of both temperature and time. The theoretical considerations of diffusional reactive phase formation of the EBC multilayer growth rates are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed to classifying wheat genotypes using support vector machines (SVMs) improved with ensemble algorithms and optimization techniques. Utilizing data from 302 wheat genotypes and 14 morphological attributes to evaluate six SVM kernels: linear, radial basis function (RBF), sigmoid, and polynomial degrees 1–3. Various optimization methods, including grid search, random search, genetic algorithms, differential evolution, and particle swarm optimization, were used. The radial basis function kernel achieves the highest accuracy at 93.2%, and the weighted accuracy ensemble further improves it to 94.9%. This study shows the effectiveness of these methods in agricultural research and crop improvement. Notably, optimization-based SVM classification, particularly with particle swarm optimization, saw a significant 1.7% accuracy gain in the test set, reaching 94.9% accuracy. These findings underscore the efficacy of RBF kernels and optimization techniques in improving wheat genotype classification accuracy and highlight the potential of SVMs in agricultural research and crop improvement endeavors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current investigation involved the isolation of 13 endophytic fungi from Taxus sp. collected in Himachal Pradesh, India. Among these, isolate PAT-3 produced 195.13 mg/L of Taxol in reformative medium broth using microbial fermentation as an alternative source. The PAT-3 isolate was characterized as Mucor circinelloides through morphologic and molecular techniques. The PAT-3 isolate was the only one to exhibit positive results for the Taxol biosynthesis-related genes 10-deacetylbaccatin-III-10-O-acetyltransferase (dbat), Baccatin-III, 3: amino, 3 phenylpropanol transferase (bapt), and taxadienol-acetyltransferase (tat). Furthermore, human breast cancer (MCF-7) and human melanoma cancer (SKMEL-28) cell lines demonstrated the cytotoxicity of Taxol extracted from isolate PAT-3, with IC50 values of 80.32 µg/mL and 77.21 µg/mL, respectively. To our knowledge, this is the first study that demonstrates the ability of the endophytic fungus M. circinelloides from Taxus sp. in the northern Himalayan region to produce paclitaxel. The study's findings show that Mucor circinelloides is an excellent alternative source of Taxol, and they may pave the way for the production of Taxol at the industrial level in future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study investigates the impact of varying process parameters on the mechanical properties of friction stir spot welding (FSSW) joints involving Al 5754 and Al 6111. Taguchi's L16 design of experiment approach was employed to conduct experiments and optimize the process parameters. Key parameters, including tool pin profile, dwell time (5–30 sec), rotating speed (250–1400 rpm), and plunge depth (1.5–1.8 mm), were systematically considered. The results indicated that the optimized welding conditions for attaining higher tensile‐shear strength are a spindle speed of 1400 rpm, dwell time of 10 sec, plunge depth of 1.7 mm, and a tool pin profile of a triangular pyramid. As for bending strength, the optimal conditions are a spindle speed of 250 rpm, dwell time of 30 sec, plunge depth of 1.8 mm, and a tool pin profile of a square pyramid, representing higher bending strength. The analysis of variance technique revealed that the tool pin profile and plunge depth significantly influenced the tensile‐shear strength and bending strength of the developed FSSW joint, respectively. Regression analysis was employed to formulate mathematical models predicting tensile and bending strength, and the predicted values closely matched experimental results with 80% accuracy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a devastating disease initiated and maintained by a rare subset of cells called leukemia stem cells (LSCs). LSCs are responsible for driving disease relapse, making the development of new therapeutic strategies to target LSCs urgently needed. The use of mass spectrometry–based metabolomics profiling has enabled the discovery of unique and targetable metabolic properties in LSCs. However, we do not have a comprehensive understanding of metabolite differences between LSCs and their normal counterparts, hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs). In this study, we used an unbiased mass spectrometry–based metabolomics analysis to define differences in metabolites between primary human LSCs and HSPCs, which revealed that LSCs have a distinct metabolome. Spermidine was the most enriched metabolite in LSCs compared with HSPCs. Pharmacological reduction of spermidine concentrations decreased LSC function but spared normal HSPCs. Polyamine depletion also decreased leukemic burden in patient-derived xenografts. Mechanistically, spermidine depletion induced LSC myeloid differentiation by decreasing eIF5A-dependent protein synthesis, resulting in reduced expression of a select subset of proteins. KAT7, a histone acetyltransferase, was one of the top candidates identified to be down-regulated by spermidine depletion. Overexpression of KAT7 partially rescued polyamine depletion–induced decreased colony-forming ability, demonstrating that loss of KAT7 is an essential part of the mechanism by which spermidine depletion targets AML clonogenic potential. Together, we identified and mechanistically dissected a metabolic vulnerability of LSCs that has the potential to be rapidly translated into clinical trials to improve outcomes for patients with AML. Editor's summary: A major concern for patients with acute myeloid leukemia is relapse after treatment. Leukemic stem cells (LSCs), which reside in the bone marrow and maintain the pool of leukemic cells, are the main culprits behind relapse and thus need to be targeted to prevent relapse from occurring. To identify targetable vulnerabilities of LSCs, Rondeau et al. performed metabolomics profiling of LSCs compared with healthy hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs). They identified the polyamine spermidine as a metabolite specifically enriched in LSCs and then showed that reducing spermidine or total polyamine concentrations could impair LSC function by down-regulating expression of a histone acetyltransferase, KAT7. Polyamine depletion reduced leukemia burden in patient-derived mouse models, suggesting that this could be a therapeutic approach to prevent relapse for patients with AML. —Courtney Malo [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article explores the use of convolutional neural networks (CNNs) in the detection and diagnosis of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). CNNs, which are adept at image recognition, can analyze brain imaging data to automatically identify relevant brain structures and abnormalities associated with ADHD. The integration of deep learning technology into ADHD diagnosis represents a significant advancement, allowing for more objective and data-driven approaches. The article also highlights specific studies that demonstrate the effectiveness of CNNs in diagnosing ADHD using EEG signals and MRI scans. The authors suggest that future research should focus on integrating different types of data and developing personalized treatment plans while considering ethical considerations and explainable AI models. Overall, CNNs are seen as a promising tool in improving ADHD care and patient outcomes. [Extracted from the article]

Plant defence mechanisms, including physical barriers like toughened bark and chemical defences like allelochemicals, are essential for protecting them against pests. Trees allocate non-structural carbohydrates (NSCs) to produce secondary metabolites like monoterpenes, which increase during biotic stress to fend off pests like the Eurasian spruce bark beetle, ESBB (Ips typographus). Despite these defences, the ESBB infests Norway spruce, causing significant ecological damage by exploiting weakened trees and using pheromones for aggregation. However, the mechanism of sensing and resistance towards host allelochemicals in ESBB is poorly understood. We hypothesised that the exposure of ESBB to spruce allelochemicals, especially monoterpenes, leads to an upsurge in the important detoxification genes like P450s, GSTs, UGTs, and transporters, and at the same time, genes responsible for development must be compromised. The current study demonstrates that exposure to monoterpenes like R-limonene and sabiene effectively elevated detoxification enzyme activities. The differential gene expression (DGE) analysis revealed 294 differentially expressed (DE) detoxification genes in response to R-limonene and 426 DE detoxification genes in response to sabiene treatments, with 209 common genes between the treatments. Amongst these, genes from the cytochrome P450 family 4 and 6 genes (CP4 and CP6), esterases, glutathione S-transferases family 1 (GSTT1), UDP-glucuronosyltransferase 2B genes (UDB), and glucose synthesis-related dehydrogenases were highly upregulated. We further validated 19 genes using RT-qPCR. Additionally, we observed similar high expression levels of detoxification genes across different monoterpene treatments, including myrcene and α-pinene, suggesting a conserved detoxification mechanism in ESBB, which demands further investigation. These findings highlight the potential for molecular target-based beetle management strategies targeting these key detoxification genes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper investigates the frequency of transiting planetary systems around metal-polluted white dwarfs using high-cadence photometry from ULTRACAM and ULTRASPEC on the ground and space-based observations with TESS. Within a sample of 313 metal-polluted white dwarfs with available TESS light curves, two systems known to have irregular transits are blindly recovered by box-least-squares and Lomb–Scargle analyses, with no new detections, yielding a transit fraction of |$0.8_{-0.4}^{+0.6}$|  per cent. Planet detection sensitivities are determined using simulated transit injection and recovery for all light curves, producing upper limit occurrences over radii from dwarf to Kronian planets, with periods from 1 h to 27 d. The dearth of short-period, transiting planets orbiting polluted white dwarfs is consistent with engulfment during the giant phases of stellar evolution, and modestly constrains dynamical re-injection of planets to the shortest orbital periods. Based on simple predictions of transit probability, where |$(R_* + R_{\rm p})/a\simeq 0.01$|⁠ , the findings here are nominally consistent with a model where 100 per cent of polluted white dwarfs have circumstellar debris near the Roche limit; however, the small sample size precludes statistical confidence in this result. Single transits are also ruled out in all light curves using a search for correlated outliers, providing weak constraints on the role of Oort-like comet clouds in white dwarf pollution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aiming at confirming the chemical structure, herein, we report the crystal structure of Arbortristoside-A, isolated from the seeds of Nyctanthes arbor-tristis Linn. and investigated by single crystal X-ray crystallographic analysis. The unambiguously established structure of Arbortristoside-A not only addresses previously reported structural flaws but also encourages its chemical, computational, and physiological studies as a lead drug candidate of pharmaceutical significance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs), malicious nodes can infiltrate the network at any time, compromising network performance. Developing a secure routing protocol is critical for ensuring reliable data transmission. LEACH (Low-Energy Adaptive Clustering Hierarchy) is a well-established hierarchical routing protocol within the WSN paradigm. However, LEACH lacks robustness against security attacks due to the absence of integrated security mechanisms, making it vulnerable in the presence of malicious nodes. On the other hand, Blockchain, an emerging technology, is best suited for Wireless Sensor Networks due to its distributed, decentralized, immutable, and traceability features. Integrating blockchain with WSNs significantly enhances security, data integrity, and decentralization within the network. Integrating blockchain technology with WSNs significantly enhances security, data integrity, and decentralization within the network. In this paper, we introduce a Blockchain-enabled secure LEACH protocol to ensure reliable data transmission in wireless sensor networks. The proposed hybrid blockchain framework includes three phases: Registration, Authentication, and Malicious Node Detection. By utilizing the autonomous execution capabilities of smart contracts without third-party intervention, we develop specific smart contracts for the registration of cluster heads and ordinary nodes, for authentication between cluster heads and their corresponding ordinary nodes, and for the identification and elimination of malicious cluster head nodes. A detailed security analysis of the proposed BSLEACH framework is provided to provide its robustness against different network attacks such as Man-in-the-Middle attack, Sybil attack, Replay attack and non-repudiation.In performance evaluation, it is observed that the proposed Blockchain-based Secured LEACH (BSLEACH) protocol outperforms other versions of LEACH such as Sleach (Secure low-energy adaptive clustering hierarchy) and Ms-leach (A routing protocol combining multi-hop transmissions and Single-hop transmissions) in the presence of malicious cluster heads and Sybil nodes in the network. The proposed solution improves the performance of the traditional LEACH protocol by identifying and removing malicious Cluster head units from the Private Blockchain network. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Histones are important chromatin-organizing proteins in eukaryotes and archaea. They form superhelical structures around which DNA is wrapped. Recent studies have shown that some archaea and bacteria contain alternative histones that exhibit different DNA binding properties, in addition to highly divergent sequences. However, the vast majority of these histones are identified in metagenomes and thus are difficult to study in vivo. The recent revolutionary breakthroughs in computational protein structure prediction by AlphaFold2 and RoseTTAfold allow for unprecedented insights into the potential function and structure of previously uncharacterized proteins. Here, we categorize the prokaryotic histone space into 17 distinct groups based on AlphaFold2 predictions. We identify a superfamily of histones, termed α3 histones, which are common in archaea and present in several bacteria. Importantly, we establish the existence of a large family of histones throughout archaea and in some bacteriophages that, instead of wrapping DNA, bridge DNA, thereby diverging from conventional nucleosomal histones. Prokaryotes contain 17 types of histones, based on predictions from AlphaFold2. The histone groups differ from each other in the multimer structures that they form. Importantly, many prokaryotic histones can bridge DNA instead of wrapping DNA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Children and young people (CYP) with acquired brain injury (ABI) require early and effective neurorehabilitation to improve long-term functional outcomes. Non-invasive brain stimulation (NIBS), including transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), have been used to improve motor and sensory skills for children with cerebral palsy. However, there is limited evidence supporting its use in CYP with ABI. Objective: To systematically review the TMS and tDCS intervention effects on motor, sensory and other functional issues in CYP with ABI as reported in the literature. Methods: A comprehensive online bibliographic databases search was performed in various databases using keywords related to NIBS and CYP with ABI. Studies that examine the effect of NIBS intervention on motor function and other functional difficulties either as a primary or secondary objective were included in this review. Results: Fourteen studies (10 single case reports, one retrospective analysis, one case series, one randomised and one quasi-randomised controlled trial) published between 2006 and 2023 were identified. These studies examined the use of NIBS to manage motor disorders, hearing, vision, headaches, speech and language and memory issues. Seventy-six children with mild to severe ABI had received NIBS. The session frequency (3–20), duration (10–45  min) was variable, and NIBS delivered between 3 and 28  days. Conclusion: The literature describing NIBS interventions in CYP with ABI is scarce. An insufficient number of studies, inadequate information reported in them, and small sample sizes limit the ability to conclude how effective NIBS is in improving motor function and other functional issues in this cohort. Further studies are therefore necessary to examine the therapeutic effects of NIBS to manage various functional problems in the CYP with ABI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polypropylene (PP) is one of the most used polymeric materials worldwide, either as a neat material or as a matrix for composite manufacture employing a molding process. Fused deposition modeling (FDM) 3D printing is an alternative process that offers the potential for manufacturing value‐added products from PP. However, using neat PP for FDM is challenging because 3D‐printed PP warps and shrinks when cooled, and the mechanical properties of PP are poor. PP‐based composites with different fillers (e.g., glass, carbon, and natural fibers) have shown improved properties using FDM processes. An alternative filler for 3D‐printed PP‐based composites is basalt fiber (BF). The objective of this work was to assess the potential and impacts of BF as a filler for BF‐PP composites using FDM processes. PP was compounded with 15, 25, 35, and 45 wt% BF to produce filaments for 3D printing without adding any compatibilizer. Results of rheology studies, morphology, and mechanical and thermal properties of the 3D printed specimens showed that BF positively impacts Young's modulus (E), thermal stability, and dimensional stability of the composite. All composites, when processed at high shear rates (i.e., above 100 1/s), show approximately similar rheological behavior. E is almost doubled in the composite with 25 wt% BF and increased fourfold in the composite with 35 and 45 wt% BF, compared to neat PP. The Izod impact resistance of the formulations containing 35 and 45 wt% BF is ~70% that of neat PP. BF process easily and adequately reinforces PP composites manufactured via FDM. Highlights: Neat PP's poor mechanical properties are improved by adding basalt fiber (BF).Up to 45 wt% BF was used to reinforce PP‐based composites.PP‐BF composites are easier to process via DFM compared to neat PP.BF improves PP‐based composite's thermal and dimensional stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Multiple studies have demonstrated that cancer cells with microsatellite instability (MSI) are intolerant to loss of the Werner syndrome helicase (WRN), whereas microsatellite-stable (MSS) cancer cells are not. Therefore, WRN represents a promising new synthetic lethal target for developing drugs to treat cancers with MSI. Given the uncertainty of how effective inhibitors of WRN activity will prove in clinical trials, and the likelihood of tumours developing resistance to WRN inhibitors, alternative strategies for impeding WRN function are needed. Proteolysis-targeting chimeras (PROTACs) are heterobifunctional small molecules that target specific proteins for degradation. Here, we engineered the WRN locus so that the gene product is fused to a bromodomain (Bd)-tag, enabling conditional WRN degradation with the AGB-1 PROTAC specific for the Bd-tag. Our data revealed that WRN degradation is highly toxic in MSI but not MSS cell lines. In MSI cells, WRN degradation caused G2/M arrest, chromosome breakage and ATM kinase activation. We also describe a multi-colour cell-based platform for facile testing of selective toxicity in MSI versus MSS cell lines. Together, our data show that a degrader approach is a potentially powerful way of targeting WRN in MSI cancers and paves the way for the development of WRN-specific PROTAC compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]