bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cerium (III)‐MOF as a photocatalyst for hydrogen evolution from water splitting
Authors: Gu Jia‐Xin , Zhao Peng‐Cheng , Lin Wei , Deng Jie , Chao Zi‐Sheng , Jin Hong‐Guang
Published: July 2024

Exploring the photocatalytic application of cerium‐based metal–organic frameworks (Ce‐MOFs) has attracted special interest due to the high abundance, low cost, and easy availability of Ce as well as the presence of low energy 4f orbitals and redox Ce (III)/(IV) couple. However, in contrast to the recent emerging study on the development of Ce (IV)‐MOFs as photocatalysts, there are few reports focusing on the photocatalytic performance of Ce (III)‐MOFs. Meanwhile, research on comparing the photocatalytic properties of rare‐earth lanthanide (Ln) ions has rarely been reported. Herein, a novel Ce (III)‐MOF with a formula of (Ce)6(BDC)9(DMF)6(H2O)3·(DMF)3, named CSUST‐4 (CSUST stands for Changsha University of Science and Technology), was successfully synthesized and characterized. The comprehensive analysis of the Ce‐O distance and Ce 3d spectra of CSUST‐4, mixed‐valence Ce (III/IV)‐MOF CSUST‐1, and Ce (IV)‐MOF CSUST‐3 demonstrated that the Ce‐O distance (O from the oxo bridge) can be used as an important reference to assign the valence state of Ce in Ce‐MOFs while the satellite peak around 916.0 eV attributed to Ce (IV) can be utilized to distinguish Ce (IV)‐containing Ce‐MOFs from Ce (III)‐MOFs. Furthermore, the photocatalytic hydrogen evolution (PHE) property of CSUST‐4 by water splitting was also studied, and by utilizing isostructural MOFs CSUST‐4‐Ln (Ln = La, Nd, Eu, Er, Yb) as platforms, the PHE performances of these Ln ions were compared, which evidenced that Ce is a suitable Ln ion to construct MOF materials for PHE in terms of cost and performance. This work contributes to the development of the Ce‐MOF field as well as sheds light on advancing Ce (III)‐MOFs toward potential photocatalytic application.
Deeper Insight into the Mechanisms Behind Sputter Damage in Silicon Solar Cells Based on the Example of Nanocrystalline Silicon Carbide
Authors: Eberst Alexander , Xu Binbin , Bittkau Karsten , Duan Weiyuan , Lambertz Andreas , Meise Ansgar , Heggen Marc , Dunin‐Borkowski Rafal E. , Rau Uwe , Ding Kaining
Published: July 2024

Transparent conducting oxides, like indium tin oxide, enable lateral charge carrier transport in silicon heterojunction solar cells. However, their deposition can damage the passivation quality in the solar cell. This damage during the sputter deposition is a complex issue that has not been fully understood, particularly in various silicon‐based materials like amorphous silicon, polycrystalline silicon, or nanocrystalline silicon carbide. The degradation in passivation quality observed in, for example, amorphous silicon is not only explainable by UV light degradation. This study explores the origin of this degradation based on the example of hydrogenated nanocrystalline silicon carbide by combining simulations with experimental analyses. It delves into potential sources of damage during the sputtering process and determines that neither primary nor secondary effects from plasma luminescence or electron bombardment are likely contributors to the damage. Similarly, the implantation of ions, as well as the creation of vacancies and ionization of lattice atoms, are also considered improbable causes. It is, however, proposed that the transfer of energy to the crystalline silicon interface via phonons can factor into the degradation of the passivation quality. This transfer might be a plausible explanation for the damage observed in the passivation layers during the sputtering process.
An Extremely Pseudo‐Plastic, Organic Crystal‐Based Concentric‐Ring‐Resonator Coupled Optical Waveguide
Authors: Kumar Avulu Vinod , Manoharan Deepak , Khapre Ankur , Ghosh Soumyajit , Chandrasekar Rajadurai
Published: July 2024

The precise shaping of optical waveguides is crucial for advancing photonic circuit technologies. In this study, the first fabrication of a resonator is introduced with coiled circular geometry(CCG) using pseudo‐plastic microcrystals of 6,6′‐((1E,1′E)‐hydrazine‐1,2‐diylidenebis(methaneylylidene))bis(2,4‐dibromophenol), HDBP. The molecular packing supported by type‐II inter‐molecular halogen bonding and hydrogen bonding provides an exceptional strain‐holding capacity for HDBP crystals. This property enables the creation of compact CCGs with three interconnected turns utilizing an atomic force microscopy cantilever tip‐based mechanophotonics technique. This CCG acts as a concentric ring‐resonator (CRR) that splits and routes light in clockwise and anticlockwise directions along circular turns, providing optical interference. Subsequently, an HDBP optical waveguide is integrated with the CRR, resulting in the development of the organic crystal‐based optical filter. The modulation observed in optical modes’ wavelengths and their intensities in the waveguide when coupled with CRR shows optical filter functionality. This fabricated device holds promise for applications in high‐fidelity sensing, precision micro‐measurements, and optical quantum processing technologies, showcasing the potential of organic crystals in advancing photonics.
Another Notch in the Belt of Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Zack Stephanie R. , Alzoubi Osama , Satoeya Neha , Singh Kunwar P. , Deen Sania , Nijim Wes , Lewis Myles J. , Pitzalis Costantino , Sweiss Nadera , Ivashkiv Lionel B. , Shahrara Shiva
Published: July 2024

Notch ligands and receptors, including JAG1/2, DLL1/4, and Notch1/3, are enriched on macrophages (MΦs), fibroblast‐like synoviocytes (FLS), and/or endothelial cells in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) compared with normal synovial tissues (ST). Power Doppler ultrasound‐guided ST studies reveal that the Notch family is highly involved in early active RA, especially during neovascularization. In contrast, the Notch family is not implicated during the erosive stage, evidenced by their lack of correlation with radiographic damage in RA ST. Toll‐like receptors and tumor necrosis factor (TNF) are the common inducers of Notch expression in RA MΦs, FLS, and endothelial cells. Among Notch ligands, JAG1 and/or DLL4 are most inducible by inflammatory responses in RA MΦs or endothelial cells and transactivate their receptors on RA FLS. TNF plays a central role on Notch ligands, as anti‐TNF good responders display JAG1/2 and DLL1/4 transcriptional downregulation in RA ST myeloid cells. In in vitro studies, TNF increases Notch3 expression in MΦs, which is further amplified by RA FLS addition. Specific disease‐modifying antirheumatic drugs reduced JAG1 and Notch3 expression in MΦ and RA FLS cocultures. Organoids containing FLS and endothelial cells have increased expression of JAG1 and Notch3. Nonetheless, Methotrexate, interleukin‐6 receptor (IL‐6R) antibodies, and B cell blockers are mostly ineffective at decreasing Notch family expression. NF‐κB, MAPK, and AKT pathways are involved in Notch signaling, whereas JAK/STATs are not. Although Notch blockade has been effective in RA preclinical studies, its small molecule inhibitors have failed in phase I and II studies, suggesting that alternative strategies may be required to intercept their function.

image
Considerations and perspectives on the practice of incurred sample reanalysis assessment for chiral drugs
Authors: Srinivas Nuggehally R. , Kallem Raja Reddy , Bartlett Michael G.
Published: July 2024

Given the inherent complexities of bioanalysis, the role of incurred sample reanalysis (ISR) is increasingly appreciated in regulatory bioanalysis. Incurred sample reanalysis has evolved as an integral part of an assay to ensure method reproducibility. The current regulatory ISR guidelines do not provide clarity regarding ISR assessment for chiral drugs comprising enantiomers. Because chiral assays evaluate two enantiomers, there are additional complexities associated with the ISR data generation and interpretation. Based on the current literature, the practices for conducting ISR in chiral methods were reviewed and assessed. While ISR was conducted in chiral methods for both enantiomers using the acceptance criteria prescribed for non‐chiral methods, there may be a need to streamline the nuances of ISR data interpretation and define the ISR requirements for chiral methods. The article provides perspectives on the ISR of enantiomeric drugs, including strategy development, by providing various hypothetical scenarios and possible considerations for defining ISR evaluation for chiral assays.
Explainable artificial intelligence in breast cancer detection and risk prediction: A systematic scoping review
Authors: Ghasemi Amirehsan , Hashtarkhani Soheil , Schwartz David L. , Shaban‐Nejad Arash
Published: July 2024

With the advances in artificial intelligence (AI), data‐driven algorithms are becoming increasingly popular in the medical domain. However, due to the nonlinear and complex behavior of many of these algorithms, decision‐making by such algorithms is not trustworthy for clinicians and is considered a black‐box process. Hence, the scientific community has introduced explainable artificial intelligence (XAI) to remedy the problem. This systematic scoping review investigates the application of XAI in breast cancer detection and risk prediction. We conducted a comprehensive search on Scopus, IEEE Explore, PubMed, and Google Scholar (first 50 citations) using a systematic search strategy. The search spanned from January 2017 to July 2023, focusing on peer‐reviewed studies implementing XAI methods in breast cancer datasets. Thirty studies met our inclusion criteria and were included in the analysis. The results revealed that SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) is the top model‐agnostic XAI technique in breast cancer research in terms of usage, explaining the model prediction results, diagnosis and classification of biomarkers, and prognosis and survival analysis. Additionally, the SHAP model primarily explained tree‐based ensemble machine learning models. The most common reason is that SHAP is model agnostic, which makes it both popular and useful for explaining any model prediction. Additionally, it is relatively easy to implement effectively and completely suits performant models, such as tree‐based models. Explainable AI improves the transparency, interpretability, fairness, and trustworthiness of AI‐enabled health systems and medical devices and, ultimately, the quality of care and outcomes.
The role of parents' attitudes towards children's use of communication technologies and school climate in coping with cyberbullying among high school students in Turkey
Authors: Yılmaz Beyza , Aydoğan Selin Nur , Koçyiğit Elif
Published: July 2024

In this study, cyberbullying is discussed through the school–family–child triangle. The research was conducted to examine how high school students' coping levels with cyberbullying are affected by the school climate and their parents' attitudes towards children's use of information and communication technologies. The research, which was conducted with both parents and students, was carried out with a quantitative method, survey model, and relational design. The data collection tool prepared for students consists of the sociodemographic information questionnaire, the Coping with Cyberbullying Scale and the School Climate Scale. The data collection tool prepared for parents consists of the sociodemographic information questionnaire and the Parents' Attitudes Towards Children's Use of Information Communication Technologies Scale. Four hundred fifty students in the 9–11th grades and 203 parents studying in two public high schools in Çankaya district of Ankara province were reached. The answers given by the students and their parents to the questionnaires were analysed separately and by matching the parent and student questionnaires of the students whose parents also filled out the questionnaire. Of the students, 82.4% had encountered cyberbullying. Girls have higher coping skills with cyberbullying than boys (p < 0.05). Parents' control and restrictions on their children's technology use were found to be high.
When consumers prefer visual blessing frame design on gift packaging: The role of interpersonal distance
Authors: Ouyang Jun , Zhou Kun
Published: July 2024

Existing literature on gift‐giving mainly views gifts and blessings as intertwined into a single entity. Our research, however, has found that visual blessing frames—visual boundaries that encircle the blessing text—can separate blessings from gifts and emphasize the blessings, thereby satisfying givers who choose gifts for interpersonally distant recipients. Across three experiments (involving a total of 1228 participants) via the Credamo platform, we explored the interplay between visual blessing frames and giver‐recipient interpersonal distance on gift evaluation. Specifically, when choosing gifts for interpersonally distant recipients, givers favor gifts adorned with visual blessing frames over those without such designs; however, this effect is attenuated when choosing gifts for close recipients. Moreover, we demonstrate that this effect is driven by givers' perception that visual blessing frames strengthen blessings. These findings contribute to the existing body of knowledge on visual frames and gift‐giving, while also offering practical implications for gift packaging designers.
Left ventricular myxoma with carcinoid heart disease: A case report of a 14‐year‐old child from Jimma Medical Center of Ethiopia
Authors: Asefa Elsah Tegene , Woyimo Tamirat Godebo , Tukeni Kedir Negesso
Published: July 2024

Key Clinical Message

Understand the importance of considering alternative diagnosis in patients presenting with atypical features, specially when they are not responding to the standard treatment. Understand the importance of considering common presentations of rare cases. Underscoring the critical importance of timely recognition and appropriate management of potentially life‐threatening conditions.
Intensifying Hydrogen Evolution in Solid–Liquid MgH2 Hydrolysis Reaction by a High Shear Reactor
Authors: Qin Hongyun , Dong Zixu , Yu Rujun , Chen Xia , Song Feng , Guo Junheng , Jia Yun , Fu Qiang
Published: July 2024

The reactor is very critical to intensify the reaction rate controlled by mass transfer. Solid magnesium hydride (MgH2) shows great advantages in hydrogen storage; however, poor liquid–solid hydrolysis kinetics limit its application. Various chemical reactors were explored and are used to improve the hydrolysis efficiency. Results show that the mixing style could affect the surface coating behavior. Specifically, the higher temperature and mixing strength could promote the MgH2 hydrolysis. Furthermore, induced crystallization could effectively relieve coating and strengthen the hydrolysis, especially at the high mixing level. The result indicated that the mass transfer distance between crystal seed and formed MgH2 particles played an important role in MgH2 hydrolysis.
Dielectrophoretic Capture and Electrochemical Enzyme‐Linked Immunosorbent Assay of Single Melanoma Cells at an Array of Interlocked Spiral Bipolar Electrodes
Authors: Clark Morgan J. , Moser Hanna J. , Anand Robbyn K.
Published: July 2024

Analysis of single cancer cells is critical to obtain accurate patient diagnosis and prognosis. In this work, we report the selective dielectrophoretic capture and electrochemical analysis of single melanoma cells at an array of interlocked spiral bipolar electrodes (iBPEs). Following dielectrophoretic capture, individual melanoma cells are hydrodynamically transferred into picoliter‐scale chambers for subsequent analysis. The interlocked spiral end of the iBPE (the sensing pole) is utilized to read out an electrochemical enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (eELISA), which quantifies the expression of a cell surface antigen, melanoma cell adhesion marker (MCAM). The opposite pole of each BPE is located in a fluidically isolated compartment containing reagents for electrogenerated chemiluminescence (ECL), such that luminescence reports iBPE current. In a preliminary device design, the ECL intensity was insufficient to detect MCAM expression on single cells. To achieve single‐cell analysis, we decreased the gap size between the interlocked spirals tenfold (5.0 μm to 0.5 μm), thereby creating a more sensitive biosensor by enhanced redox cycling of the product of eELISA. This work is significant because it allows for the selective isolation and sensitive analysis of individual melanoma cells in a device amenable to point‐of‐care (POC) application by combining dielectrophoresis (DEP) with interdigitated bipolar electrodes (IDBPEs).
Selective Oxidation of Vitamin D3 Enhanced by Long‐Range Effects of a Substrate Channel Mutation in Cytochrome P450BM3 (CYP102A1)
Authors: Chen Wenyu , Lynch Jamie N. C. , Bustamante Claudia , Zhang Yuan , Wong Luet L.
Published: July 2024

Vitamin D deficiency affects nearly half the population, with many requiring or opting for supplements with vitamin D3 (VD3), the precursor of vitamin D (1α,25‐dihydroxyVD3). 25‐HydroxyVD3, the circulating form of vitamin D, is a more effective supplement than VD3 but its synthesis is complex. We report here the engineering of cytochrome P450BM3 (CYP102A1) for the selective oxidation of VD3 to 25‐hydroxyVD3. Long‐range effects of the substrate‐channel mutation Glu435Ile promoted binding of the VD3 side chain close to the heme, enhancing VD3 oxidation activity that reached 6.62 g of 25‐hydroxyVD3 isolated from a 1‐litre scale reaction (69.1 % yield; space‐time‐yield 331 mg/L/h).
Investigation of Crystallization Fouling on Column Internals using a Screening Test Rig
Authors: Inderwies Korbinian , Kappes Jürgen , Klein Harald , Rehfeldt Sebastian
Published: July 2024

Fouling on column internals leads to many malfunctions in chemical processes every year. Despite the importance for the industry, only a few systematic studies exist on the fouling of column internals. Here, a new screening test rig is presented for the rapid and easy characterization of a wide range of internals with respect to their fouling tolerance. A countercurrent of saturated NaCl/water solution and air is used to force crystallization fouling. Photographs help to identify the initial points of fouling on two random packings and provide insights into the growth of deposits. In addition, the fouling tolerance of five different trays is investigated, demonstrating that trays with larger curtain area show greater fouling tolerance.
Rhodium‐Catalyzed Asymmetric Hydrogenation of Tetrasubstituted α,β‐Unsaturated Amides: Efficient Access to Chiral β‐Amino Amides†
Authors: Jiao Bing , Wang Fangyuan , Lv Hui
Published: July 2024

Comprehensive Summary

The first asymmetric hydrogenation of acyclic tetrasubstituted α,β‐unsaturated amides has been achieved by using Rh/DuanPhos complex as a catalyst, delivering chiral β‐amino amides with two contiguous chiral centers in excellent yields and high enantioselectivities (up to 99% yield, 96% ee), which provides efficient and concise access to valuable β‐amino amide derivatives. The gram‐scale reaction and efficient transformation of β‐amino amide to β‐amino acid and β‐amino cyanide demonstrated the utility of this methodology.
Circulating Levels of Calprotectin as a Biomarker in Patients With Coronary Artery Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Reshadmanesh Tara , Behnoush Amir Hossein , Farajollahi Maedeh , Khalaji Amirmohammad , Ghondaghsaz Elina , Ahangar Hassan
Published: July 2024

Background

Calprotectin, also known as MRP8/14, is generated by immune cells and is altered in several inflammatory diseases. Studies have assessed their levels in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) and its subtypes (stable CAD and acute coronary syndrome [ACS]). Herein, we aimed to systematically investigate these associations through a systematic review and meta‐analysis.

Methods

A systematic search was conducted in four online databases, including PubMed, Scopus, Embase, and the Web of Science. Relevant studies were retrieved, screened, and extracted. Random‐effect meta‐analysis was performed for the calculation of standardized mean difference (SMD) and 95% confidence interval (CI). Blood calprotectin levels were compared between CAD patients and controls, as well as CAD subtypes.

Results

A total of 20 studies were included in the systematic review and meta‐analysis, comprising 3300 CAD patients and 1230 controls. Patients with CAD had significantly higher calprotectin levels (SMD 0.81, 95% CI 0.32−1.30, p < 0.01). Similarly, patients with ACS were reported to have higher levels compared to those with stable CAD. However, there was no significant difference in terms of blood calprotectin levels between stable CAD cases and healthy controls. Finally, studies have shown that calprotectin could be used as a diagnostic biomarker of CAD while also predicting major adverse events and mortality in these patients.

Conclusion

Based on our findings, calprotectin, as an inflammatory marker, could be used as a possible biomarker for patients with CAD and ACS. These suggest the possibility of pathophysiological pathways for this involvement and warrant further research on these associations as well as their clinical utility.
Utility of an anchored multiplex polymerase chain reaction‐based fusion assay for diagnosis of soft tissue tumors in cytology
Authors: Helland T. Leif , Fisch Adam S. , Chebib Ivan
Published: June 2024

Background

Fine‐needle aspiration specimens from soft tissue tumors are complicated by lack of tissue architecture and limited material for ancillary testing. There are little data on the feasibility of next‐generation sequencing techniques for fusion detection on soft tissue cytology specimens. This study explored the role of an anchored multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR)‐based gene fusion assay in aiding the diagnosis of mesenchymal neoplasms on cytology samples.

Methods

The laboratory information system was queried for cytology specimens that had undergone testing by anchored multiplex PCR. After exclusion of epithelial and hematolymphoid neoplasms, clinical and pathologic information was collected on the remaining cases.

Results

There were 1609 cytology specimens tested with anchored multiplex PCR. Of these, 48 (3%) were cytology specimens from mesenchymal tumors. Anchored multiplex PCR was positive for a reportable fusion transcript in 14 of 48 cases (29%); there was no fusion detected in 32 cases (67%), and there was insufficient tissue for analysis in two cases (4%). The detectable fusion partners included ALK (n = 4), STAT6 (n = 4), EWSR1 (n = 3), and one each of SS18, YAP1, and PHF1. Of the cases in which a fusion partner was detected, eight of 14 were disease‐defining on cytology preparation, and six of 14 provided molecular confirmation of a metastatic focus of a previously diagnosed tumor.

Conclusions

The anchored, multiplex PCR‐based gene fusion assay is a powerful orthogonal tool in helping diagnose mesenchymal neoplasms on cytology specimens. The material obtained for cytologic analysis yields sufficient quality/quantity of tissue in the majority of cases tested.
Electric Field‐Enhanced Ion Rejection Rate in Freeze Desalination
Authors: Wang Yixiang , Huang Baoling , Li Zhigang
Published: July 2024

Freeze desalination is an appealing method for seawater desalination through freezing seawater. The percentage of ions in the liquid phase, which is termed ion rejection rate, is a critical factor affecting the performance of freeze desalination. Improving the ion rejection rate is an important topic for freeze desalination. In this work, we investigate the effects of electric fields on the ion rejection rate during the freezing of seawater through molecular dynamics simulations. It is found that the ion rejection rate increases with increasing electric field strength. The enhanced ion rejection rate is due to the reduction of the energy barrier at the ice‐water interface caused by the electric field, which affects the orientation of water molecules and ion‐water interactions. However, the electric field hinders the ice growth rate, which affects the productivity of freeze desalination. Nevertheless, the finding in this work offers a new idea to improve the ion rejection rate. Practically, a trade‐off needs to be found to optimize the overall performance of freeze desalination.
Exploring New Solid Forms of Antirheumatic Drug Hydroxychloroquine: Novel Salts with Sustained‐Release Performance
Authors: Ji Wei‐Jie , Wu Yue , Hong Minghuang , Zhu Bin , Ren Guo‐Bin , Qi Ming‐Hui
Published: July 2024

Hydroxychloroquine sulfate is a common drug for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. However, the disadvantage of this drug is that it needs to be taken continuously for 3–6 months to be effective and compliance of patients is poor. In this work, four new salt forms of hydroxychloroquine are successfully prepared whose crystal structures and properties are confirmed by a series of solid‐state characterization methods, including infrared spectroscopy, single crystal X‐ray diffraction, powder X‐ray diffraction, thermal analysis, and dynamic vapor sorption analysis. The hygroscopicity, stability, equilibrium solubility, and intrinsic dissolution rate of the four new salts are also tested. The moisture absorption, solubility, and intrinsic dissolution rate of newly prepared salts are significantly reduced, and the dissolution rates of 1‐hydroxy‐2‐naphthoate and 1,5‐naphthalenedisulfonate salts are only 1/158 and 1/335 of that of the therapeutically used sulfates, respectively. It is expected that they are potentially useful to be developed into a sustained‐release formulation, which can greatly improve the dosing compliance for rheumatoid arthritis treatment.
Watts Up!
Authors: Moretti Marcelo L. , Benedetti Tatiana , Medeiros Pamela , Crisp Jason , Mcomb Jeffrey , Weiland Jerry E. , Zasada Inga
Published: June 2024

Ornamental nursery stocks rely on soil fumigants to combat soilborne pathogens, diseases, and weeds, which all pose significant challenges to tree seedling production in the ornamental industry. Methyl bromide, a broad‐spectrum soil fumigant, effectively targets weeds, soilborne fungi, and nematodes. Despite its efficacy, its classification as a potent ozone‐depleting substance has led to its gradual phase‐out in agricultural practices. Pulse electric field (PEF) technology has emerged as a promising innovation with the potential to address multiple challenges posed by methyl bromide. Earn 0.5 CEUs in Integrated Pest Management by reading this article and taking the quiz at https://web.sciencesocieties.org/Learning‐Center/Courses.
Influence of the Bis‐Carbene Ligand on Manganese Catalysts for CO2 Electroreduction
Authors: Richter Marvin L. , Peris Eduardo , Gonell Sergio
Published: July 2024

First row transition metal complexes have attracted attention as abundant and affordable electrocatalysts for CO2 reduction. Manganese complexes bearing bis‐N‐heterocyclic carbene ligands defining 6‐membered ring metallacycles have proven to reduce CO2 to CO selectively at very high rates. Herein, we report the synthesis of manganese carbonyl complexes supported by a rigid ortho‐phenylene bridged bis‐N‐heterocyclic carbene ligand (ortho‐phenylene‐bis(N‐methylimidazol‐2‐ylidene), Ph‐bis‐mim), which defines a 7‐membered ring metallacycle. We performed a comparative study with the analogues complexes bearing an ethylene‐bis(N‐methylimidazol‐2‐ylidene) ligand (C2H4‐bis‐mim) and a methylene‐bis(N‐methylimidazol‐2‐ylidene) ligand (CH2‐bis‐mim), and found that catalysts comprising a seven‐membered metallacycle retain similar selectivity and activity as those with six‐membered metallacycles, while reducing the overpotential by 120–190 mV. Our findings reveal general design principles for manganese bis‐N‐heterocyclic carbene electrocatalysts, which can guide further designs of affordable, fast and low overpotential catalysts for CO2 electroreduction.
Resource pulses shape seasonal and individual variation in the diet of an omnivorous carnivore
Authors: Jensen Alex J. , Muthersbaugh Michael , Ruth Charles R. , Butfiloski Joseph W. , Cantrell Jay , Adams Jennifer , Waits Lisette , Kilgo John C. , Jachowski David S.
Published: July 2024

Resource pulses are ecologically important phenomenon that occur in most ecosystems globally. Following optimal foraging theory, many consumers switch to pulsatile foods when available, examples of which include fruit mast and vulnerable young prey. Yet how the availability of resource pulses shapes the ecology of predators is still an emerging area of research; and how much individual variation there is in response to pulses is not well understood. We hypothesized that resource pulses would lead to dietary convergence in our population, which we tested by tracking both population‐level and individual coyote diets for 3 years in South Carolina, USA. We (1) described seasonal dietary shifts in relation to resource pulses; (2) compared male and female diets across seasons; and (3) tested this dietary convergence hypothesis by quantifying individual dietary variation both across and within periods when resource pulses were available. We found that pulses of white‐tailed deer fawns and blackberries composed over half of coyote diet in summer, and persimmon fruits were an important component in fall. Male and female coyotes generally had similar diets, but males consumed more deer in fall, perhaps driven by scavenging more. We found support for our dietary convergence hypothesis, where individuals had more similar diets during resource pulses compared to a non‐pulse period. We also found that this convergence happened before peak availability, suggesting a non‐symmetric response to pulse availability. We show that nearly all coyotes eat fawns, suggesting that targeted efforts to remove “fawn killers” would be in vain. Instead, given how quickly coyotes collectively converge on resource pulses, our findings show that resource pulses could potentially be used by managers to alter the behavior of apex predators. More broadly, we open a new line of inquiry into how variation in individual foraging decisions scales up to shape the effects of resource pulses on ecological communities.
Design Principles for High‐Performance Meta‐Polybenzimidazole Membranes for Vanadium Redox Flow Batteries
Authors: Duburg Jacobus C. , Avaro Jonathan , Krupnik Leonard , Silva Bruno F.B. , Neels Antonia , Schmidt Thomas J. , Gubler Lorenz
Published: July 2024

The all‐vanadium redox flow battery (VRFB) plays an important role in the energy transition toward renewable technologies by providing grid‐scale energy storage. Their deployment, however, is limited by the lack of membranes that provide both a high energy efficiency and capacity retention. Typically, the improvement of the battery's energy efficiency comes at the cost of its capacity retention. Herein, novel N‐alkylated and N‐benzylated meta‐polybenzimidazole (m‐PBI) membranes are used to understand the molecular requirements of the polymer electrolyte in a vanadium redox flow battery, providing an important toolbox for future research toward next‐generation membrane materials in energy storage devices. The addition of an ethyl side chain to the m‐PBI backbone increases its affinity toward the acidic electrolyte, thereby increasing its ionic conductivity and the corresponding energy efficiency of the VRFB cell from 70% to 78% at a current density of 200 mA cm−2. In addition, cells equipped with ethylated m‐PBI showed better capacity retention than their pristine counterpart, respectively 91% versus 87%, over 200 cycles at 200 mA cm−2. The outstanding VRFB cycling performance, together with the low‐cost and fluorine‐free chemistry of the N‐alkylated m‐PBI polymer, makes this material a promising membrane to be used in next‐generation VRFB systems.
Iodonium Salt‐Mediated Oxidation of Sulfides to Sulfoxides by DMSO
Authors: Avramidou Elisavet , Triandafyllou Agapi K. , Zisopoulou Stavroula A. , Stini Naya A. , Demertzidou Vera P. , Kokotos Christoforos G. , Gkizis Petros L. , Gallos John K.
Published: July 2024

Compounds bearing the sulfoxide moiety display an important class of molecules in pharmaceutical industry. Many efforts have been made towards the development of novel, sustainable, easy‐to‐execute and industrially friendly processes. A novel iodonium‐salt‐mediated oxidation protocol for the conversion of sulfides into the corresponding sulfoxides is reported, employing DMSO as the oxidant. Several sulfides decorated with various functional groups were tested, leading to the corresponding products in good to excellent yields with remarkable chemoselectivity. The oxidation protocol was successfully applied to the synthesis of the pharmaceutical active ingredients (APIs) Sulforaphane and Modafinil.
Surrogate models for seismic response analysis of flexible rocking structures
Authors: Alvares da Silva Andréia Horta , Stojadinović Božidar
Published: July 2024

Seismic design tools are based on surrogate models of the designed structure and the responses of those surrogates to earthquake ground motions. To design symmetric flexible rocking structures, a surrogate model that includes rocking and flexure is needed. In this paper, we derive the equation of motion of a flexible multi‐degree‐of‐freedom (MDOF) structure rocking on its base in modal coordinates. Then, we introduce a set of two‐degree‐of‐freedom (2DOF) surrogate models that accounts only for the first elastic vibration mode of the multimass structure and its rotation about the base pivot points. We investigate the surrogates' ability to represent the dynamics of an elastic MDOF structure that uplifts and rocks and the interaction between rocking and flexure. Therein, we detail the simplifications for the equations of motion of the 2DOF surrogate models and the adopted rocking impact model, and develop and check the sliding initiation condition. We show that the simplified 2DOF surrogate model responses compare well to experimental results. Then we assess the 2DOF surrogate model accuracy in representing the earthquake response of the MDOF model using Cloud Analysis and the coefficient of determination approach. We find that simplified 2DOF surrogate of the MDOF model is quite accurate () in estimating its maximum relative top displacement and acceptably accurate () in estimating its maximum base rotation based on a thousand randomly generated flexible rocking structure earthquake response analyses. Lastly, we discuss using the simplified 2DOF surrogate model of symmetric flexible rocking structures in preliminary seismic design, and give examples featuring a continuous elastic hollow semi‐conical chimney and an inelastic flexible MDOF structure, both with a base that may uplift.
Effectiveness of the Maudsley Model of Anorexia Nervosa Treatment for Adults: A systematic review
Authors: Fernández García Sheila , Quiles Marcos Yolanda
Published: July 2024

Background

Maudsley Model of Anorexia nervosa (AN) Treatment for Adults (MANTRA) is recommended by NICE for the treatment of adults with AN. However, despite this fact, the approach remains relatively understudied. The aim of this study was to systematically update the research evidence regarding the use of the MANTRA in the treatment of Eating Disorders (ED).

Method

The databases used were Web of Science, Scopus, and PsycInfo, including studies up to 31 May 2023. PRISMA guidelines were followed, and Cochrane tools were used to assess the risk of bias. The search focused on identifying published articles that discussed the usefulness of MANTRA as a component of treatment for ED, following PICO criteria.

Results

Nine studies spanning the period from 2011 to 2023 were included. Findings suggested that MANTRA was effective in improving body mass index (BMI), eating symptomatology and emotional state. There were generally no significant differences compared to other treatment conditions. Limitations to interpreting this systematic review include the methodological quality of included studies and the elevated risk of bias.

Conclusions

This review was the first to examine the effectiveness of MANTRA. The results indicate that MANTRA has shown effectiveness similar to other treatments for adults AN patients in addressing key clinical variables. It has been used in different populations (adolescents, males, inpatients) and formats (group, online) However, more research is needed to determine its effectiveness.
Barriers and facilitators to diagnosing dementia in migrant populations: A systematic review of European health professionals' perspectives
Authors: Hurley Siobhan , Turnbull Sue , Calia Clara
Published: June 2024

Background

Rates of dementia are increasing in migrant populations, however, there is evidence that they remain underrepresented in older adult healthcare services. Barriers and facilitators to accessing dementia care have been explored from the viewpoint of migrants and caregivers, however, no review has synthesised the literature pertaining to clinicians' viewpoints. This review aimed to explore clinician perspectives as to the barriers and facilitators in assessing and diagnosing dementia in migrant populations.

Methods

A systematic review of the literature was conducted. Databases included EMBASE, CINAHL, PsycINFO, MEDLINE and ProQuest. Qualitative studies from the perspective of European clinicians were included. The methodological quality of each study was assessed using the Critical Appraisals Programme Tool (CASP). The analysis adopted a thematic synthesis approach.

Results

The review included 11 qualitative studies relating to the diagnosis of dementia in migrants. The quality of the studies was generally high, although few studies reported on the relationship between the researcher and the participants. The data related more to the barriers in diagnosing dementia, and few facilitators were found. Four themes were constructed: (1) service access (2) perceptions of migrant beliefs (3) relationships and (4) quality of the diagnostic process.

Conclusions

The review is limited by the small number of studies available. The findings highlight significant clinical concerns in the diagnosis of migrants, in particular the underrepresentation of migrants within services and the barriers to access they may face. The quality of the diagnostic process was often thought to be undermined by a lack of culturally sensitive assessment tools. Further research on the use of an interpreter in diagnosing dementia is needed.
Fibrinogen‐like 1: A hepatokine linking liver physiology to hematology
Authors: Personnaz Jean , Guillou Hervé , Kautz Léon
Published: July 2024

A recent study identified the critical contribution of the hepatokine FGL1 to the regulation of iron metabolism during the recovery from anemia. FGL1 is secreted by hepatocytes in response to hypoxia to sequester BMP ligands and repress the transcription of the iron‐regulatory hormone hepcidin. This process ensures the proper supply of iron to the bone marrow for new red blood cell synthesis and the restoration of physiological oxygen levels. FGL1 may therefore contribute to the recovery from common anemias and cause iron overload in chronic anemias with ineffective erythropoiesis, such as ß‐thalassemia, dyserythropoietic anemia, and myelodysplastic syndromes. However, FGL1 has also been described as a regulator of hepatocyte proliferation, glucose homeostasis, and insulin signaling, as well as a mediator of liver steatosis and immune evasion. Chronic exposure to elevated levels of FGL1 during anemia may therefore have systemic metabolic effects besides iron regulation and erythropoiesis. Here, we are providing an overview of the proposed functions of FGL1 in physiology and pathophysiology.
The crucial role of the cerebellum in autism spectrum disorder: Neuroimaging, neurobiological, and anatomical insights
Authors: Biswas Mohammad Shahangir , Roy Suronjit Kumar , Hasan Rubait , PK Md Moyen Uddin
Published: July 2024

Background and Aims

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental condition characterized by a wide range of symptoms and challenges. While ASD is primarily associated with atypical social and communicative behaviors, increasing research has pointed towards the involvement of various brain regions, including the cerebellum. This review article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the role of cerebellar lobules in ASD, highlighting recent findings and potential therapeutic implications.

Methods

Using published articles found in PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar, we extracted pertinent data to complete this review work. We have searched for terms including anatomical insights, neuroimaging, neurobiological, and autism spectrum disorder.

Results

The intricate relationship between the cerebellum and other brain regions linked to ASD has been highlighted by neurobiological research, which has shown abnormalities in neurotransmitter systems and cerebellar circuitry. The relevance of the cerebellum in the pathophysiology of ASD has been further highlighted by anatomical studies that have revealed evidence of cerebellar abnormalities, including changes in volume, morphology, and connectivity.

Conclusion

Thorough knowledge of the cerebellum's function in ASD may lead to new understandings of the underlying mechanisms of the condition and make it easier to create interventions and treatments that are more specifically targeted at treating cerebellar dysfunction in ASD patients.
The future of patient education: A study on AI‐driven responses to urinary incontinence inquiries
Authors: Rotem Reut , Zamstein Omri , Rottenstreich Misgav , O'Sullivan Orfhlaith E. , O'reilly Barry A. , Weintraub Adi Y.
Published: June 2024

Objective

To evaluate the effectiveness of ChatGPT in providing insights into common urinary incontinence concerns within urogynecology. By analyzing the model's responses against established benchmarks of accuracy, completeness, and safety, the study aimed to quantify its usefulness for informing patients and aiding healthcare providers.

Methods

An expert‐driven questionnaire was developed, inviting urogynecologists worldwide to assess ChatGPT's answers to 10 carefully selected questions on urinary incontinence (UI). These assessments focused on the accuracy of the responses, their comprehensiveness, and whether they raised any safety issues. Subsequent statistical analyses determined the average consensus among experts and identified the proportion of responses receiving favorable evaluations (a score of 4 or higher).

Results

Of 50 urogynecologists that were approached worldwide, 37 responded, offering insights into ChatGPT's responses on UI. The overall feedback averaged a score of 4.0, indicating a positive acceptance. Accuracy scores averaged 3.9 with 71% rated favorably, whereas comprehensiveness scored slightly higher at 4 with 74% favorable ratings. Safety assessments also averaged 4 with 74% favorable responses.

Conclusion

This investigation underlines ChatGPT's favorable performance across the evaluated domains of accuracy, comprehensiveness, and safety within the context of UI queries. However, despite this broadly positive reception, the study also signals a clear avenue for improvement, particularly in the precision of the provided information. Refining ChatGPT's accuracy and ensuring the delivery of more pinpointed responses are essential steps forward, aiming to bolster its utility as a comprehensive educational resource for patients and a supportive tool for healthcare practitioners.
A novel artificial intelligence model for measuring fetal intracranial markers during the first trimester based on two‐dimensional ultrasound image
Authors: Sun Lingling , Yu Junxuan , Yao Jiezhi , Cao Yan , Sun Naimin , Chen Keqi , Lin Yujia , Ji Chunya , Zhang Jun , Ling Chen , Yang Zhong , Pan Qi , Yang Ronghao , Yang Xin , Ni Dong , Yin Linliang , Deng Xuedong
Published: June 2024

Objective

To establish reference ranges of fetal intracranial markers during the first trimester and develop the first novel artificial intelligence (AI) model to measure key markers automatically.

Methods

This retrospective study used two‐dimensional (2D) ultrasound images from 4233 singleton normal fetuses scanned at 11+0–13+6 weeks of gestation at the Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University from January 2018 to July 2022. We analyzed 10 key markers in three important planes of the fetal head. Based on these, reference ranges of 10 fetal intracranial markers were established and an AI model was developed for automated marker measurement. AI and manual measurements were compared to evaluate differences, correlations, consistency, and time consumption based on mean error, Pearson correlation analysis, intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs), and average measurement time.

Results

The results of AI and manual methods had strong consistency and correlation (all ICC values >0.75, all r values >0.75, and all P values <0.001). The average absolute error of both only ranged from 0.124 to 0.178 mm. AI achieved a 100% detection rate for abnormal cases. Additionally, the average measurement time of AI was only 0.49 s, which was more than 65 times faster than the manual measurement method.

Conclusion

The present study first established the normal standard reference ranges of fetal intracranial markers based on a large Chinese population data set. Furthermore, the proposed AI model demonstrated its capability to measure multiple fetal intracranial markers automatically, serving as a highly effective tool to streamline sonographer tasks and mitigate manual measurement errors, which can be generalized to first‐trimester scanning.
Toward noncontact macroscopic imaging of multiple cancers using multi‐spectral inelastic scattering detection
Authors: David Sandryne , Ksantini Nassim , Dallaire Frédérick , Ember Katherine , Daoust François , Sheehy Guillaume , Hadjipanayis Costas G. , Petrecca Kevin , Wilson Brian C. , Leblond Frédéric
Published: July 2024

Here we introduce a Raman spectroscopy approach combining multi‐spectral imaging and a new fluorescence background subtraction technique to image individual Raman peaks in less than 5 seconds over a square field‐of‐view of 1‐centimeter sides with 350 micrometers resolution. First, human data is presented supporting the feasibility of achieving cancer detection with high sensitivity and specificity – in brain, breast, lung, and ovarian/endometrium tissue – using no more than three biochemically interpretable biomarkers associated with the inelastic scattering signal from specific Raman peaks. Second, a proof‐of‐principle study in biological tissue is presented demonstrating the feasibility of detecting a single Raman band – here the CH2/CH3 deformation bands from proteins and lipids – using a conventional multi‐spectral imaging system in combination with the new background removal method. This study paves the way for the development of a new Raman imaging technique that is rapid, label‐free, and wide field.