bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Paired Electrosynthesis of Formaldehyde Derivatives from CO2 Reduction and Methanol Oxidation
Authors: Bin Yeo Jia , Ho Jang Jun , In Jo Young , Woo Koo Jeong , Tae Nam Ki
Published: November 2023

Utilizing CO2‐derived formaldehyde derivatives for fuel additive or polymer synthesis is a promising approach to reduce net carbon dioxide emissions. Existing methodologies involve converting CO2 to methanol by thermal hydrogenation, followed by electrochemical or thermochemical oxidation to produce formaldehyde. Adding to the conventional methanol oxidation pathway, we propose a new electrochemical approach to simultaneously generate formaldehyde derivatives at both electrodes by partial methanol oxidation and the direct reduction of CO2. To achieve this, a method to directly reduce CO2 to formaldehyde at the cathode is required. Still, it has been scarcely reported previously due to the acidity of the formic acid intermediate and the facile over‐reduction of formaldehyde to methanol. By enabling the activation and subsequent stabilization of formic acid and formaldehyde respectively in methanol solvent, we were able to implement a strategy where formaldehyde derivatives were generated at the cathode alongside the anode. Further mechanism studies revealed that protons supplied from the anodic reaction contribute to the activation of formic acid and the stabilization of the formaldehyde product. Additionally, it was found that the cathodic formaldehyde derivative Faradaic efficiency can be further increased through prolonged electrolysis time up to 50 % along with a maximum anodic formaldehyde derivative Faradaic efficiency of 90 %.
Phase behaviors and nucleation effects of phytosterols and phytosterol esters in medium chain triglycerides
Authors: Zhou Shuai , Sun Yue , Wang Yong , Jiang Yuanrong
Published: November 2023

Free phytosterols (PS) and phytosterol esters (PSE) usually coexist in natural edible oils, which affect the crystallization behaviors of oil significantly. However, the phase behaviors of PS and PSE in oils and their roles on the crystallization behaviors of oil are still unclear. In this study, the isolation and dissolution behaviors of PS and PSE in medium chain triglyceride (MCT) were studied, and then their influences on the crystallization behaviors of MCT were clarified further. The results showed that when the mass ratio of PS:PSE was greater than 3:7 at the total amount of PS and PSE fixing 5 wt%, PS and PSE isolated to form a new crystal structure, which was different from PS spherical or PSE plate‐like crystal structure, in MCT. The new PS/PSE crystal structure had a larger surface area, and its melting point was between PS and PSE. It also showed the synergistic ability to promote the crystallization nucleation of MCT. When the total content of PS and PSE was 1 wt%, and the mass ratio of PS:PSE was 5:5, the crystallization peak temperature of PS/PSE/MCT was 12°C higher than that of virgin MCT, 2.5°C higher than that of PSE/MCT, and 10.3°C higher than that of PS/MCT.
Ash fusion characteristics of iron‐rich coal in Xinjiang under different atmospheres and the influence mechanism of adding red mud and pipeline scale
Authors: Lv Junxin , Wang Yonggang , Zhang Chao , Xu Deping , Lin Xiongchao , Bao Yahan
Published: November 2023

To realize the high‐efficiency utilization of iron‐rich coal, it is necessary to conduct in‐depth research on the ash fusion characteristics and regulation mechanism. In this paper, the ash fusion temperature test of iron‐rich coal in Xinjiang (ZC) under different atmospheres was first carried out. Then, red mud (HJ) from Huajin Aluminum Industry and black water pipe scale (GDG) were selected as the additives. After the same ashing procedure, the two additives were mixed with iron‐rich coal ash in different proportions to realize the regulation of the chemical composition of the coal ash to improve the ash fusion characteristic. The ash fusion temperature (AFT) experiment was carried out in the automatic ash melting point analyzer, and high‐temperature ash melting slags at different temperatures were prepared. The mineral phases of coal ash and slag were characterized by XRD and compared with the Factsage simulation calculation results to reveal the influence mechanism of coal ash fusion temperature. The result shows that the fusion temperature of ZC iron‐rich coal ash is significantly different between oxidizing atmosphere and weak reducing atmosphere. Compared with the oxidizing atmosphere, the four characteristic temperatures of ZC iron‐rich coal ash are significantly lower under weak reducing conditions, and the difference is about 150°C. The addition of red mud and pipeline scale increased the fusion temperature of ZC coal ash to varying degrees. The addition of HJ ash has little effect on the deformation temperature of ZC coal ash, while the addition of different proportions of HJ ash significantly increases the flow temperature of ZC coal ash. When the addition ratio of HJ ash is 40%, the flow temperature FT of ZC coal ash increases most obviously, which is about 50°C. The addition of HJ ash and GDG ash will lead to an increase in the content of iron‐containing spinel, thereby increasing the ash flow temperature.
Weighting factors design in model predictive direct torque control based on cascaded neural network
Authors: Tian Yazhuo , Zhang Yongjun , Xiao Xiong , Yildirim Tanju
Published: November 2023

An innovative control strategy is introduced in this paper for model predictive direct torque control (MPDTC) of a permanent magnet synchronous motor (PMSM) inverter, which is based on a cascaded neural network for the automatic selection and online tuning of weighting factors. Specifically, the lower network in the proposed two‐stage cascaded network is trained by utilizing the weighting factors and the corresponding converter parameters under a specific working condition to establish data substitution models under that working condition and determine the fitness function for obtaining the optimal weighting factors. The upper network of the cascaded network is trained using various working conditions and their corresponding optimal weighting factors calculated by the lower network, with the goal of achieving real‐time tuning of the weighting factors under variable working conditions. By employing a data‐driven method to design the weighting factors at each working condition offline, this method reduces online tuning to a single calculation in the upper network and minimizes the online calculation burden. This approach enables the weighting factors to be adjusted in real‐time according to changes in the working conditions, leading to enhanced accuracy of weighting factor optimization. Experimental results demonstrate that the proposed strategy improves the overall performance of the inverters.
Impulsively fractional‐order time‐delayed gene regulatory networks: Existence and asymptotic stability
Authors: Arjunan M. Mallika , Abdeljawad Thabet , Pratap A. , Yousef Ali
Published: November 2023

This paper presents asymptotic stability criteria for fractional‐order gene regulatory networks (FOGRNs) with impulses, time delays, and two numerical cases to illustrate the applicability of the results. The established system's boundedness, existence, and uniqueness are discussed using the Mittag–Leffler function, homeomorphism theory, and Cauchy–Schwartz inequality. The delay‐independent asymptotic stability criteria for FOGRNs are derived using algebraic and LMI methods, famous inequality techniques, and Lyapunov stability theory.
Unveiling Oxygen Evolution Reaction on LiCoO2 Cathode: Insights for the Development of High‐Performance Aqueous Lithium‐ion Batteries
Authors: George Gibu , Poater Albert , Solà Miquel , Posada‐Pérez Sergio
Published: November 2023

Aqueous lithium‐ion batteries (ALIBs) are attracting significant attention as promising candidates for safe and sustainable energy storage systems. This paper delves into the crucial aspects of ALIB technology focusing on the interaction between LiCoO2 (lithium cobalt oxide) cathode material and water electrolytes, with a specific emphasis on the Oxygen Evolution Reaction (OER) process. Fundamental understanding of the electrochemical behavior of LiCoO2 in aqueous electrolytes is crucial for enhancing the performance, safety, and longevity of ALIBs using LiCoO2 as the cathode material.

Through a comprehensive periodic density functional analysis of the LiCoO2‐water at the cathode interface, the potential catalytic contributions to the OER mechanism of LiCoO2 are explored. The catalytic properties of LiCoO2 towards OER are investigated considering different steady states of the lowest energy surfaces of LiCoO2 and three different Li concentrations. Our results do not predict the formation of oxygen gas due to the expected large overpotentials, although the exergonic water decomposition to hydroxyl by means the first proton‐electron transfer is predicted at equilibrium potential. This work contributes to the fundamental understanding of LiCoO2 as cathode for aqueous lithium‐ion batteries, reporting the pros and cons of one of the most common cathode materials for traditional non‐aqueous batteries.
Synthesis and characterization of magnetic nanoparticles via co‐precipitation: Application and assessment in anaerobic digested wastewater
Authors: Amo‐Duodu Gloria , Tetteh Emmanuel Kweinor , Sibiya Nomthandazo Precious , Rathilal Sudesh , Chollom Martha Noro
Published: November 2023

Nanotechnology is a widely applied technology in environmental remediation, medicine, chemical processes and catalysis. The Development and modification of nanoparticles for wastewater treatment via anaerobic digestion have gained much interest over the years. This study synthesized six different magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) via the co‐precipitation method. These MNPs were characterized via scanning electron microscopy/energy dispersive X‐ray (SEM/EDX), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and Brunauer–Emmett–Teller analysis. The SEM/EDX, FTIR and XRD affirmed the success of the synthesis of MNPs. The MNPs were furthermore explored to enhance the anaerobic digestion of wastewater to generate biogas. This was done by conducting a biochemical methane potential (BMP) assay, where seven bioreactors were digested for 21 and 30 days at 35°C. In comparison with the control (no MNPs), which had a removal efficiency of <68%, the results showed that the addition of MNPs to the BMP system demonstrated good degradation of >70% chemical oxyggen demand (COD) and turbidity removal efficiencies. There was a 20% increase in methane yield for the BMP setups with MNP additives compared with the control bioreactor.
Decision support tool to determine the suitability of demand side management implementation in continuously operated processes – A biorefinery case study
Authors: Röder Lilli , Etzold Hendrik , Gröngröft Arne , Grünewald Marcus , Riese Julia
Published: November 2023

The time‐dependent adjustment of a system's power demand simultaneously with current power generation is commonly referred to as demand side management (DSM). DSM strategies are based on the flexibility to purchase electricity at times when prices are low, which can result in monetary benefits. One option to increase the flexibility of continuously operated processes is to oversize them. From an economic point of view, this leads to an increased investment. DSM only serves an economic purpose if the monetary benefits exceed this increase in capital costs. The main goal of this contribution is to develop a decision support tool to help evaluate unit operations regarding their feasibility for DSM implementation. In a case study, the decision support tool was applied to show its functionality on a biomethane production plant. The results show that with the help of the decision support tool, evaluating unit operations concerning their economic DSM potential is possible.
Planung und Ausführung der Masse‐Feder‐Systeme am neuen Stuttgarter Bahnhof
Authors: Enoekl Viktor , Urban Susanne , Nachev Dimitar
Published: November 2023

„S21“: Bürgerproteste waren gestern, die zunehmende Begeisterung über die Architektur des Bahnhofs mit den lichtdurchdrungenen Kelchstützen wird bleiben und auch internationale Anerkennung nach Stuttgart bringen. Nicht sichtbar, aber ingenieurtechnisch ebenso einzigartig sind die Masse‐Feder‐Systeme in den Tunneln unter der Stadt, auf denen die Züge zukünftig durch Stuttgarts Hauptbahnhof fahren werden. Ein Teil des Projekts Stuttgart 21 ist die Umgestaltung des Hauptbahnhofs und die Verlegung der Zulaufstrecken in Tunneln, die nun unterhalb der innenstädtischen Gebiete verlaufen. Für die Einhaltung der Immissionsschutzanforderungen wurde im Rahmen der Planfeststellung daher eine weitgehende Schall‐ und Erschütterungsentkopplung zwischen der Tunnelkonstruktion und dem Oberbau der Gleise in den Anschlussbereichen zum Bahnhof festgelegt. Es handelt sich dabei im Wesentlichen um schwere Masse‐Feder‐Systeme (SMFS), die sich jeweils über die ganze nördliche und südliche Gleisverzweigung erstrecken und an den Enden sowohl in die Bahnhofshalle wie auch in die angrenzenden Tunnelabschnitte hineinragen.
Signaling sustainability: Can it entice business angels' willingness to invest?
Authors: Shahid Subhan , Liouka Ioanna , Deligianni Ioanna
Published: November 2023

Despite increasing attention to sustainability as a source of new business opportunities, current research on new ventures has hardly considered this factor with respect to access to funding. This paper examines the role of new venture sustainability signals on business angels' willingness to invest. Specifically, it considers the effects of third‐party sustainability certification and the self‐proclaimed label of sustainable entrepreneurship as congruent reputational signals for inducing angel investors' willingness to invest. Three studies were conducted using a 2 × 2 between‐subject experimental design on certification and label conditions, respectively, in two samples from the Amazon MTurk crowdsourcing marketplace and one from business angels. Results show that early‐stage ventures would use such signals in their sustainability exemplification strategy to convey quality and prestige and eventually improve their chances of raising business angel funding. Implications for theory and practice are discussed.
Deconvolution of synthetic mRNA expression: Nucleoside chemistry alters translatability
Authors: Moradian Hanieh , Schwestka Marko , Roch Toralf , Gossen Manfred
Published: November 2023

Recent technological advances in the production of in vitro transcribed messenger RNA (IVT‐mRNA) facilitate its clinical use as well as its application in basic research. In this regard, numerous chemical modifications, which are not naturally observed in endogenous mRNA, have been implemented primarily to address the issue of immunogenicity and improve its biological performance. However, recent findings suggested pronounced differences between expression levels of IVT‐mRNAs with different nucleoside modifications in transfected cells. Given the multistep process of IVT‐mRNA delivery and subsequent intracellular expression, it is unclear which step is influenced by IVT‐mRNA chemistry. Here, we deconvolute this process and show that the nucleoside modification does not interfere with complexation of carriers, their physicochemical properties, and extracellular stability, as exemplified by selected modifications. The immediate effect of mRNA chemistry on the efficiency of ribosomal protein synthesis as a contributor to differences in expression was quantified by in vitro cell‐free translation. Our results demonstrate that for the nucleoside modifications tested, translatability was the decisive step in determining overall protein production. Also of special importance for future work on rational selection of tailored synthetic mRNA chemistries, our findings set a workflow to identify potentially limiting, modification‐dependent steps in the complex delivery process.
Updated systematic review of the effects of exercise on understudied health outcomes in cancer survivors
Authors: Sturgeon Kathleen M. , Kok Dieuwertje E. , Kleckner Ian R. , Guertin Kristin A. , McNeil Jessica , Parry Traci L. , Ehlers Diane K. , Hamilton Andrew , Schmitz Kathryn , Campbell Kristin L. , Winters‐Stone Kerri
Published: November 2023

Introduction

The American College of Sports Medicine provided guidelines for exercise prescriptions in cancer survivors for specific cancer‐ and treatment‐related health outcomes. However, there was insufficient evidence to generate exercise prescriptions for 10 health outcomes of cancer treatment. We sought to update the state of evidence.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review of these 10 understudied health outcomes (bone health, sleep, cardiovascular function, chemotherapy‐induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN), cognitive function, falls and balance, nausea, pain, sexual function, and treatment tolerance) and provided an update of evidence.

Results

While the evidence base for each outcome has increased, there remains insufficient evidence to generate exercise prescriptions. Common limitations observed across outcomes included: variability in type and quality of outcome measurement tools, variability in definitions of the health outcomes, a lack of phase III trials, and a majority of trials investigating breast or prostate cancer survivors only.

Conclusion

We identified progress in the field of exercise oncology for several understudied cancer‐ and treatment‐related health outcomes. However, we were not able to generate exercise prescriptions due to continued insufficient evidence base. More work is needed to prescribe exercise as medicine for these understudied health outcomes, and our review highlights several strategies to aid in research acceleration within these areas of exercise oncology.
Gamified cryptocurrency and rewards: Consumer behaviour during uncertain earnings
Authors: Ahsan Zaid Bin , Gupta Agam
Published: November 2023

The accentuation of cryptocurrency, non‐fungible tokens and gamification of platforms has led to rewards being awarded, in the form of cryptocurrencies, that are formed by the platforms themselves and traded over the marketplace. These play‐to‐earn gamified platforms have witnessed a rise in participation, leading to increased investments by consumers, engagement, threats, and subsequent volatility. This paper tries to decipher consumer behaviour over the nascent gamified platform of a play‐to‐earn game, Axie Infinity, due to its fluctuating and subsequent depreciation of cryptocurrency, that act as rewards. This volatility from the resultant rewards over the platform brings about an uncertainty in the users' engagement, which has been part of our investigation in this study. The data was gathered through semi‐structured interviews of 20 participants picked from the official server of Axie Infinity on the social media platform of Discord. A thematic analysis based on a descriptive phenomenological approach was conducted on this data which generated findings that were centred around the continued use of action and rewards, resolution of participation through accumulation of rewards and optimism. The study contributes by highlighting and substantiating the component of optimism in the theory of reinforcement‐uncertainty, that characterises repetitive uncertain events, specifying it for uncertain rewards over investment risks that have been undertaken by consumers. Based on these findings, this study discusses how optimism is crucial in the continuation of engagement and outlines how it can be used in the facilitation of positive consumer behaviour over a gamified platform.
Water‐Based Synthesis of β‐Sheet‐Like Supramolecular Metallohydrogel Organized by Using a Native Ultrashort Peptide Sequence
Authors: Inada Asuka , Motomura Aki , Oshima Tatsuya
Published: November 2023

Designing supramolecular hydrogels using short peptides is challenging. To control self‐assembly, a certain amount of organic solvent is typically added to the system, or the short peptide is modified with a functional group that is hydrophobic, hydrophilic, or highly coordinative. We discovered that l‐His‐l‐Ile‐l‐Thr (HIT), a very short unmodified “native” tripeptide, selectively responds to Cu2+ ions in pure water to form a transparent supramolecular metallohydrogel. Circular dichroism analysis revealed that Cu2+ ions, but no other metal species, caused HIT to change from a random‐coil‐like to a β‐sheet‐like structure. Other spectroscopic methods were used to characterize the properties of the supramolecular metallohydrogel. These results are expected to facilitate the development of native short peptides as advanced functional biomaterials.
Skeletal Editing through Molecular Recombination of 2H‐Indazoles to Azo‐Linked‐Quinazolinones
Authors: Bhattacharjee Suvam , Hajra Alakananda
Published: November 2023

A new protocol by the combinatory use of two equivalent of indazoles starting material with one being the carbon source via its C3‐reactivity and the other, the coupling partner has been developed for the selectfluor‐mediated single atom skeletal editing of 2H‐indazoles. The azo‐linked‐2,3‐disubstituted quinazolin‐4‐one derivatives were obtained through a carbon atom insertion between the two nitrogens of the indazole ring and simultaneous oxidation at C3 position of both indazole moieties. Mechanistic investigations reveal that the amidic carbonyl oxygen of the product is derived from water and the reaction proceeds through in‐situ generated N‐centred indazolone radical intermediate.
Copper‐Mediated N‐Trifluoromethylation of O‐Benzoylhydroxylamines
Authors: Fleetwood Thomas D. , Kerr William J. , Mason Joseph
Published: November 2023

The use of trifluoromethyl containing compounds is well established within medicinal chemistry, with a range of approved drugs containing C−CF3 and O−CF3 moieties. However, the utilisation of the N−CF3 functional group remains relatively unexplored. This may be attributed to the challenging synthesis of this unit, with many current methods employing harsh conditions or less accessible reagents. A robust methodology for the N‐trifluoromethylation of secondary amines has been developed, which employs an umpolung strategy in the form of a copper‐catalysed electrophilic amination. The method is operationally simple, uses mild, inexpensive reagents, and has been used to synthesise a range of novel, structurally complex N−CF3 containing compounds.
Chalcogen and Hydrogen Bond Team up in Driving Anion⋅⋅⋅Anion Self‐Assembly
Authors: Beccaria Roberta , Dhaka Arun , Calabrese Miriam , Pizzi Andrea , Frontera Antonio , Resnati Giuseppe
Published: November 2023

H‐selenite anions (HSeO3−) form in the solid unprecedented anionic supramolecular chains wherein single units are assembled via alternating short Se⋅⋅⋅O and H⋅⋅⋅O contacts. Crystallographic analyses and computational studies (the quantum theory of “atoms‐in‐molecules”, QTAIM, and the noncovalent interaction plot, NCIPlot) consistently prove the attractive nature of these chalcogen bonds (ChBs) and hydrogen honds (HBs), the Janus‐type character of HSeO3− anions which act as both donors and acceptors of ChB and HB, and the possible stability of anion dimers in solution. The effectiveness of the ChBs herein described may lead to consider the HSeO3− moiety as a new entry in the toolbox of crystal engineering based on ChB.
Metal‐organic framework‐derived two‐dimensional in‐plane Janus catalysts promoting oxygen electroreduction to hydrogen peroxide
Authors: Jiang Lili , Sun Yuntong , Duan Jingjing , Chen Sheng
Published: November 2023

We use MOFs material as precursor to synthesize carbon based two‐dimensional (2D) materials loaded with In2S3−In2O3 (In−S−O) nanoparticles. The In−S−O nanoparticles have exhibited Janus architecture composed of two compounds with different crystal structures that are combined in‐plane on 2D carbon material surface. The excellent properties of this in‐plane Janus material include 2D nanoarchitecture and its Janus properties formed by combining two different crystal structures. It has exhibited excellent electrochemical performances due to its abundant electrochemical active sites and large specific surface area. According to experiments, the electron transfer number of the material for two‐electron oxygen reduction is about 2.4, and the hydrogen peroxide yield is 32 mg/h cm2. In the further test of liquid flow electrolytic cell, the yield can reach up to 172 mg/h cm2.
Evaluation of Market‐Available Snack Chip Packaging: Modified Atmosphere Packaging, Water Activity, Mechanical Properties, and Efficiency of Packaging Material Use
Authors: Schmackler Theresa , Müller Kajetan , Tybussek Thorsten , Jesdinszki Marius , Sängerlaub Sven
Published: November 2023

Snack chips come in a wide variety. They are sensitive to oxidation and water vapor absorption. Therefore, it is valuable to look closer at the current packaging situation. For this study, 108 snack chip products packaged in pouches and cans were analysed. The most often used oil was sunflower oil followed by a blend of vegetable oils. Unexpectedly, only at 44 of the tested products modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) was used. This result is important since many packagings could be designed in future with less oxygen barrier. On the other side, use of MAP might potentially increase quality and shelf‐life of chips currently without MAP. The packaging material efficiencies of pouches were found to be better than that of cans. It increased with higher filling quantities. In the best case the ratio was 50 g chips per 1 g packaging material for a pouch with a filling quantity of 300 g. For bigger packages, a lower relative cost could be observed, especially for pouches.
Expanding Diterpene Complexity and Diversity via Photoinduced Ring Distortions
Authors: Luz Tibaldi‐Bollati María , Nicotra Viviana , Oksdath‐Mansilla Gabriela , García Manuela E.
Published: November 2023

Natural products and their semi‐synthetic derivatives undoubtedly constitute an important source of therapeutic agents. Their importance lies in their own origin and evolution, since they have great chemical diversity, biochemical specificity, and pharmacological properties. Currently, there is a renewed interest in the development of methodologies capable of efficiently modifying the chemical structure of these bioactive platforms. In this work, the photoderivatization of the diterpene solidagenone was performed using a complexity‐to‐diversity‐oriented approach. By exploring [2+2]‐photocycloaddition, photoinduced‐hydrogen abstraction, and photoxygenation reactions, a set of solidagenone derivatives was obtained, showing different ring fusions, side chain rearrangements, and modifications of the original furan ring's substitution pattern. The derivatives obtained were characterised by NMR methodologies. To evaluate the structural diversity of the labdane‐derived compounds, their physicochemical properties, structural similarity, and chemical space were analysed. These results suggest that photochemical reactions are a useful tool for performing ring distortion transformations, generating derivatives of natural compounds with wide diversity, structural complexity, and with potential biological properties.
Postbariatric surgery hypoglycemia: Nutritional, pharmacological and surgical perspectives
Authors: Rossini Giovanni , Risi Renata , Monte Lavinia , Sancetta Biagio , Quadrini Maria , Ugoccioni Massimiliano , Masi Davide , Rossetti Rebecca , D’Alessio Rossella , Mazzilli Rossella , Defeudis Giuseppe , Lubrano Carla , Gnessi Lucio , Watanabe Mikiko , Manfrini Silvia , Tuccinardi Dario
Published: November 2023

Post‐bariatric hypoglycaemia (PBH) is a metabolic complication of bariatric surgery (BS), consisting of low post‐prandial glucose levels in patients having undergone bariatric procedures. While BS is currently the most effective and relatively safe treatment for obesity and its complications, the development of PBH can significantly impact patients' quality of life and mental health. The diagnosis of PBH is still challenging, considering the lack of definitive and reliable diagnostic tools, and the fact that this condition is frequently asymptomatic. However, PBH's prevalence is alarming, involving up to 88% of the post‐bariatric population, depending on the diagnostic tool, and this may be underestimated. Given the prevalence of obesity soaring, and an increasing number of bariatric procedures being performed, it is crucial that physicians are skilled to diagnose PBH and promptly treat patients suffering from it. While the milestone of managing this condition is nutritional therapy, growing evidence suggests that old and new pharmacological approaches may be adopted as adjunct therapies for managing this complex condition.
Long‐term evolution of the structure of the St. Lawrence (Canada) marine ecosystem in the context of climate change and anthropogenic activities: An isotopic perceptive
Authors: Rioux Ève , Cabrol Jory , Lesage Véronique
Published: November 2023

Documenting long‐term changes in the trophic structure of food webs and how species respond to these changes is essential to forecast their vulnerability and resilience to environmental stressors. Over the past decades, the St. Lawrence marine ecosystem (Canada) has experienced major changes in its physical, chemical, and biological conditions from overfishing, acoustic and chemical pollution, climate change, and the increased abundance of some top predators. These changes have likely affected the trophodynamics of the ecosystem, and are suspected to have deleterious effects on endangered species of mammals and other components of the ecosystem, such as blue whales (Balaenoptera musculus), fin whales (B. physalus), and beluga (Delphinapterus leucas). This study examined the trophic structure of the St. Lawrence marine ecosystem, including the isotopic niche of various species, over two periods of contrasting pressures from anthropogenic and climatic stressors (1995–2003 vs. 2019–2021). Stable isotope ratios were measured in 1240 samples of 21 species of marine invertebrates, fishes, and mammals sampled during both periods. A significant change in the isotopic value and niche position between periods is observed in most of the sampled species. While the direction of change and effect size were not uniform among species, these changes confirmed that substantial modifications in community structure have occurred over time. Niche overlap decreased considerably among some of the pelagic and demersal fishes, and among whale species during the most recent period. Combined with a concomitant reduction in niche breadth in several species, these observations suggested that resource sharing was limited among these species. This study highlighted some degree of dietary plasticity in several species, and a long‐term change in the trophic structure of the St. Lawrence marine ecosystem, with likely effects on diet composition and energetics of several populations, including endangered species.
Warming and top‐down control of stage‐structured prey: Linking theory to patterns in natural systems
Authors: Davidson Andrew T. , Stunkle C. Ryland , Armstrong Joshua T. , Hamman Elizabeth A. , McCoy Michael W. , Vonesh James R.
Published: November 2023

Warming has broad and often nonlinear impacts on organismal physiology and traits, allowing it to impact species interactions like predation through a variety of pathways that may be difficult to predict. Predictions are commonly based on short‐term experiments and models, and these studies often yield conflicting results depending on the environmental context, spatiotemporal scale, and the predator and prey species considered. Thus, the accuracy of predicted changes in interaction strength, and their importance to the broader ecosystems they take place in, remain unclear. Here, we attempted to link one such set of predictions generated using theory, modeling, and controlled experiments to patterns in the natural abundance of prey across a broad thermal gradient. To do so, we first predicted how warming would impact a stage‐structured predator–prey interaction in riverine rock pools between Pantala spp. dragonfly nymph predators and Aedes atropalpus mosquito larval prey. We then described temperature variation across a set of hundreds of riverine rock pools (n = 775) and leveraged this natural gradient to look for evidence for or against our model's predictions. Our model's predictions suggested that warming should weaken predator control of mosquito larval prey by accelerating their development and shrinking the window of time during which aquatic dragonfly nymphs could consume them. This was consistent with data collected in rock pool ecosystems, where the negative effects of dragonfly nymph predators on mosquito larval abundance were weaker in warmer pools. Our findings provide additional evidence to substantiate our model‐derived predictions while emphasizing the importance of assessing similar predictions using natural gradients of temperature whenever possible.
rCRUX: A rapid and versatile tool for generating metabarcoding reference libraries in R
Authors: Curd Emily E. , Gal Luna , Gallego Ramon , Silliman Katherine , Nielsen Shaun , Gold Zachary
Published: November 2023

The sequencing revolution requires accurate taxonomic classification of DNA sequences. The key to making accurate taxonomic assignments is curated, comprehensive reference barcode databases. However, the generation and curation of such databases has remained challenging given the large and continuously growing volumes of both DNA sequence data and novel reference barcode targets. Monitoring and research applications require a greater diversity of specialized gene regions and targeted taxa than are currently curated by professional staff. Thus, there is a growing need for an easy‐to‐implement computational tool that can generate comprehensive metabarcoding reference libraries for any bespoke locus. We address this need by reimagining CRUX from the Anacapa Toolkit and present the rCRUX package in R which, like its predecessor, relies on sequence homology and PCR primer compatibility instead of keyword searches to avoid limitations of user‐defined metadata. The typical workflow involves searching for plausible seed amplicons (get_seeds_local() or get_seeds_remote()) by simulating in silico PCR to acquire a set of sequences analogous to PCR products containing a user‐defined set of primer sequences. Next, these seeds are used to iteratively blast search seed sequences against a local copy of the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI)‐formatted nt database using a taxonomic rank‐based stratified random sampling approach (blast_seeds()). This results in a comprehensive set of sequence matches. This database is dereplicated and cleaned (derep_and_clean_db()) by identifying identical reference sequences and collapsing the taxonomic path to the lowest taxonomic agreement across all matching reads. This results in a curated, comprehensive database of primer‐specific reference barcode sequences from NCBI. Databases can then be compared (compare_db()) to determine read and taxonomic overlap. We demonstrate that rCRUX provides more comprehensive reference databases for the MiFish Universal Teleost 12S, Taberlet trnl, fungal ITS, and Leray CO1 loci than CRABS, MetaCurator, RESCRIPt, and ecoPCR reference databases. We then further demonstrate the utility of rCRUX by generating 24 reference databases for 20 metabarcoding loci, many of which lack dedicated reference database curation efforts. The rCRUX package provides a simple‐to‐use tool for the generation of curated, comprehensive reference databases for user‐defined loci, facilitating accurate and effective taxonomic classification of metabarcoding and DNA sequence efforts broadly.
Amphipathic Janus Nanofibers Aerogel for Efficient Solar Steam Generation
Authors: Wang Rui , Deng Jinshuo , Wu Ping , Ma Qianli , Dong Xiangting , Yu Wensheng , Liu Guixia , Wang Jinxian , Liu Lei
Published: November 2023

Solar steam generation is a promising water purification technology due to its low‐cost and environmentally friendly applications in water purification and desalination. However, hydrophilic or hydrophobic materials alone are insufficient in achieving necessary characteristics for constructing high‐quality solar steam generators with good comprehensive properties. Herein, novel hydrophile/hydrophobe amphipathic Janus nanofibers aerogel is designed and used as a host material for preparing solar steam generators. The product consists of an internal cubic aerogel and an external layer of photothermal materials. The internal aerogel is composed of electrospun amphipathic Janus nanofibers. Owing to the unique composition and structure, the prepared solar steam generator integrates the features of high water evaporation rate (2.944 kg m−2 h−1 under 1 kW m−2 irradiation), self‐floating, salt‐resisting, and fast performance recovery after flipping. Moreover, the product also exhibits excellent properties on desalination and removal of organic pollutants. Compared with traditional hydrophilic aerogel host material, the amphipathic Janus nanofibers aerogel brings much higher water evaporation rate and salt resistance.
Concave microlens arrays with tunable curvature for enhanced photodegradation of organic pollutants in water: A non‐contact approach
Authors: Lu Qiuyun , Li Yanan , Kassim Kehinde , Xu Ben Bin , Gamal El‐Din Mohamed , Zhang Xuehua
Published: November 2023

Solar‐driven photodegradation for water treatment faces challenges such as low energy conversion rates, high maintenance costs, and over‐sensitivity to the environment. In this study, we develop reusable concave microlens arrays (MLAs) for more efficient solar photodegradation by optimizing light distribution. Concave MLAs with the base radius of  μm are fabricated by imprinting convex MLAs to polydimethylsiloxane elastomers. Concave MLAs possess a non‐contact reactor configuration, preventing MLAs from detaching or being contaminated. By precisely controlling the solvent exchange, concave MLAs are fabricated with well‐defined curvature and adjustable volume on femtoliter scale. The focusing effects of MLAs are examined, and good agreement is presented between experiments and simulations. The photodegradation efficiency of organic pollutants in water is significantly enhanced by 5.1‐fold, attributed to higher intensity at focal points of concave MLAs. Furthermore, enhanced photodegradation by concave MLAs is demonstrated under low light irradiation, applicable to real river water and highly turbid water.

image
Analyzing drilling noise in rotational atherectomy: Improving safety and effectiveness through visualization and anomaly detection using autoencoder—A preclinical study
Authors: Komiyama Hidenori , Abe Takuro , Ando Toshiyuki , Ishikawa Masahiro , Tanaka Shinji , Ishihara Shiro , Inoue Yoshiro , Jujo Kentaro , Hamatani Takeshi , Matsukage Takashi
Published: November 2023

Background and Aims

As the population of aging societies continues to grow, the prevalence of complex coronary artery diseases, including calcification, is expected to increase. Rotational atherectomy (RA) is an essential technique for treating calcified lesions. This study aimed to assess the usefulness of the drilling noise produced during rotablation as a parameter for evaluating the safety and effectiveness of the procedure.

Methods

A human body model mimicking calcified stenotic coronary lesions was constructed using plastic resin, and burrs of sizes 1.25 and 1.5 mm were utilized. To identify the noise source during rotablation, we activated the ROTAPRO™ rotablator at a rotational speed of 180,000 rpm, recording the noise near the burr (inside the mock model) and advancer (outside). In addition to regular operation, we simulated two major complications: burr entrapment and guidewire transection. The drilling noise recorded in Waveform Audio File Format files was converted into spectrograms for analysis and an autoencoder analyzed the image data for anomalies.

Results

The drilling noise from both inside and outside the mock model was predominantly within the 3000 Hz frequency domain. During standard operation, intermittent noise within this range was observed. However, during simulated complications, there were noticeable changes: a drop to 2000 Hz during burr entrapment and a distinct squealing noise during guidewire transection. The autoencoder effectively reduced the spectrogram data into a two‐dimensional representation suitable for anomaly detection in potential clinical applications.

Conclusion

By analyzing drilling noise, the evaluation of procedural safety and efficacy during RA can be enhanced.
Minority stressors, traumatic events, and associations with mental health and school climate among gender and sexuality diverse young people in Australia: Findings from a nationally representative cohort study
Authors: Bailey Sasha , Newton Nicola , Perry Yael , Davies Cristyn , Lin Ashleigh , Marino Jennifer L. , Skinner Rachel S. , Grummitt Lucinda , Barrett Emma
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Population‐level, nationally representative data on the prevalence of minority stressors and traumatic events, mental ill‐health effects, and the preventative utility of school climate, among gender and sexuality diverse young people in Australia, is significantly lacking. In this study, we estimated the prevalence and distribution of minority stressors and traumatic events among young people by sexuality identity (gay/lesbian, bisexual, other sexuality, heterosexual), sexuality diversity (sexuality diverse, not sexuality diverse), and gender identity (transgender, cisgender) and assessed associations with mental ill‐health and the moderating role of school climate factors.

Methods

Using Wave 8 (2018) follow‐up data from a population‐level, nationally representative longitudinal cohort study, the sample comprised 3037 young people aged 17–19 years in Australia. Prevalence ratios for minority stressors and traumatic events were calculated for gender and sexuality diverse categories using logistic regression models. Linear regression models were used to test associations between traumatic events and minority stressors, and mental ill‐health. Multivariate linear regression tested school climate factors as effect modifier between minority stressors and mental ill‐health among sexuality diverse young people.

Results

Rates of traumatic events and minority stressors were highest among bisexual and gay/lesbian young people and were significantly associated with mental ill‐health among all gender and sexuality diverse young people. Highest mental ill‐health effects were observed among trans young people. Among sexuality diverse young people, positive and negative feelings toward school climate were associated with decreased and increased mental ill‐health, respectively. After accounting for sexuality diversity, positive overall school climate appeared protective of mental ill‐health effects of sexuality‐based discrimination.

Discussion

Minority stressors, traumatic events, and associated mental ill‐health are prevalent among gender and sexuality diverse young people in Australia, especially trans, bisexual, and gay/lesbian young people. Promotion of affirmative, safe, and inclusive school climate demonstrates significant promise for the prevention and early intervention of mental ill‐health among gender and sexuality diverse young people.
Hydrogel‐polyurethane fiber composites with enhanced microarchitectural control for heart valve replacement
Authors: Robinson Andrew , Nkansah Abbey , Bhat Sanchita , Karnik Shweta , Jones Sarah , Fairley Ashauntee , Leung Jonathan , Wancura Megan , Sacks Michael S , Dasi Lakshmi Prasad , Cosgriff‐Hernandez Elizabeth
Published: November 2023

Polymeric heart valves offer the potential to overcome the limited durability of tissue based bioprosthetic valves and the need for anticoagulant therapy of mechanical valve replacement options. However, developing a single‐phase material with requisite biological properties and target mechanical properties remains a challenge. In this study, a composite heart valve material was developed where an electrospun mesh provides tunable mechanical properties and a hydrogel coating confers an antifouling surface for thromboresistance. Key biological responses were evaluated in comparison to glutaraldehyde‐fixed pericardium. Platelet and bacterial attachment were reduced by 38% and 98%, respectively, as compared to pericardium that demonstrated the antifouling nature of the hydrogel coating. There was also a notable reduction (59%) in the calcification of the composite material as compared to pericardium. A custom 3D‐printed hydrogel coating setup was developed to make valve composites for device‐level hemodynamic testing. Regurgitation fraction (9.6 ± 1.8%) and effective orifice area (1.52 ± 0.34 cm2) met ISO 5840‐2:2021 requirements. Additionally, the mean pressure gradient was comparable to current clinical bioprosthetic heart valves demonstrating preliminary efficacy. Although the hemodynamic properties are promising, it is anticipated that the random microarchitecture will result in suboptimal strain fields and peak stresses that may accelerate leaflet fatigue and degeneration. Previous computational work has demonstrated that bioinspired fiber microarchitectures can improve strain homogeneity of valve materials toward improving durability. To this end, we developed advanced electrospinning methodologies to achieve polyurethane fiber microarchitectures that mimic or exceed the physiological ranges of alignment, tortuosity, and curvilinearity present in the native valve. Control of fiber alignment from a random fiber orientation at a normalized orientation index (NOI) 14.2 ± 6.9% to highly aligned fibers at a NOI of 85.1 ± 1.4%. was achieved through increasing mandrel rotational velocity. Fiber tortuosity and curvilinearity in the range of native valve features were introduced through a post‐spinning annealing process and fiber collection on a conical mandrel geometry, respectively. Overall, these studies demonstrate the potential of hydrogel‐polyurethane fiber composite as a heart valve material. Future studies will utilize the developed advanced electrospinning methodologies in combination with model‐directed fabrication toward optimizing durability as a function of fiber microarchitecture.