bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fabrication of hydroxyapatite‐based nano‐gold and nano‐silver‐doped bioceramic bone grafts: Enhanced mechanostructure, cell viability, and nuclear abnormality properties
Authors: Demirel M. , Aslan N. , Aksakal B. , Arslan M. E.
Published: March 2023

In this study, nano‐gold (nAu) and nano‐silver (nAg) were doped at the molar ratios of Molar5–Molar30 to the Hydroxyapatite (HAp)‐based bioceramic bone graft synthesized by the sol–gel method. The effects of nAu and nAg on structural, mechanical, cell viability, and nuclear abnormality of the synthesized bioceramic grafts were evaluated. The chemical and morphological properties of the bone grafts after production were examined through XRD and SEM–EDX analyses and mechanical tests. To determine the biocompatibility of the bone grafts, cell viability tests were performed using human fibroblast cells. In the cytotoxicity analyses, only HAp and HAp‐nAu5 grafts did not show toxicological properties at any concentration, while HAp‐nAg5 among the nAg‐containing grafts gave the best results at the 200–100 μg/mL concentrations and showed significant cytotoxicity in human fibroblast cells. The other nAu‐containing grafts showed toxicological properties in the concentration range of 200–50 μg/mL and nAg‐containing grafts in the concentration range of 200–100 μg/mL against the negative control. The micronucleus (MN) analyses showed that the lowest total MN and L (lobbed) amounts, while the lowest total N (notched) amount, was obtained from the only HAp graft. It was found that the nAg‐doped bone grafts gave higher total MN, L, and N amounts compared to the nAu‐doped bone grafts. Furthermore, while the mean nuclear abnormality (NA) values of all grafts gave close results, the highest values were again obtained from the nAg‐doped bone grafts.
Melatonin protects against methotrexate hepatotoxicity in young rats: Impact of PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling
Authors: Wang Su‐Chen , Huang Yi‐Chuan , Hsiao Chih‐Cheng , Sheen Jiunn‐Ming , Huang Li‐Tung , Lo Wan‐Shan , Hsieh Hsin‐Yi , Chen Yu‐Chieh
Published: March 2023

With the improvement in children's acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) care, the survival rate in children ALL has improved much. Methotrexate (MTX) plays an essential role in the success of children's ALL treatment. Since hepatotoxicity is commonly reported in individuals treated with intravenous or oral MTX, our study further examined the hepatic effect following intrathecal MTX treatment, which is an essential treatment for leukemia patients. Specifically, we examined the pathogenesis of MTX hepatotoxicity in young rats and explored the impact of melatonin treatment in protection against MTX hepatotoxicity. Successfully, we found that melatonin was able to protect against MTX hepatotoxicity.
Adipokine gremlin‐1 promotes hepatic steatosis via upregulation of ER stress by suppressing autophagy‐mediated signaling
Authors: Choi Sung Woo , Oh Heeseung , Park Seung Yeon , Cho Wonjun , Abd El‐Aty A. M. , Hacimuftuoglu Ahmet , Jeong Ji Hoon , Jung Tae Woo
Published: March 2023

Gremlin‐1 (GR1) is a novel adipokine that is highly expressed in human adipocytes and has been shown to inhibit the BMP2/4‐TGFb signaling pathway. It has an effect on insulin sensitivity. Elevated levels of Gremlin have been shown to lead to insulin resistance in skeletal muscle, adipocytes, and hepatocytes. In this study, we investigated the effect of GR1 on hepatic lipid metabolism under hyperlipidemic conditions and explored the molecular mechanisms associated with GR1 by in vitro and in vivo studies. We found that palmitate increased GR1 expression in visceral adipocytes. Recombinant GR1 increased lipid accumulation, lipogenesis, and ER stress markers in cultured primary hepatocytes. Treatment with GR1 increased EGFR expression and mTOR phosphorylation and reduced autophagy markers. EGFR or rapamycin siRNA reduced the effects of GR1 on lipogenic lipid deposition and ER stress in cultured hepatocytes. Administration of GR1 via the tail vein induced lipogenic proteins and ER stress while suppressing autophagy in the livers of experimental mice. Suppression of GR1 by in vivo transfection reduced the effects of a high‐fat diet on hepatic lipid metabolism, ER stress, and autophagy in mice. These results suggest that the adipokine GR1 promotes hepatic ER stress due to the impairment of autophagy, ultimately causing hepatic steatosis in the obese state. The current study demonstrated that targeting GR1 may be a potential therapeutic approach for treating metabolic diseases, including metabolic‐associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD).
Feedback‐induced action–outcome associations increase consumer impatience
Authors: Lin Haichao , Xu Qian , Jin Liyin
Published: March 2023

Do various kinds of feedback influence consumer impatience? Five studies involving hypothetical and real behavioral consequences demonstrate that compared with lump‐sum feedback (i.e., feedback provided in bulk at the end), piecemeal feedback (i.e., feedback provided piece by piece in the process) increases consumer impatience (i.e., preference toward now options). This effect occurs because piecemeal feedback (vs. lump‐sum feedback) establishes a reliable action–outcome association, which activates a general action goal to induce consumers to be more action oriented, making them more eager to complete actions for outcomes in subsequent related or unrelated situations. This effect is robust regardless of whether the valence of feedback is positive or negative, whether the outcome involves gain or loss (Study 1), and whether the form of feedback is monetary or informative (Study 2). Furthermore, we show that piecemeal feedback increases consumer impatience only when it is provided at a fixed ratio rather than at a variable ratio schedule (Study 3), when it is provided directly following behaviors (Study 4), and when it is directed to actions (vs. inactions) (Study 5). These findings contribute to the action goal research and consumer impatience literature.
Effect of ozonation on biodegradability enhancement and biomethanation potential of pretreatment process wastewaters from 2G ethanol production
Authors: Sreevathsan Sivakumar , Crasta Inchara , B K Bhavana , Mudliar Sandeep Narayan
Published: March 2023

BACKGROUND

The production of second‐generation (2G) ethanol from lignocellulosic biomass generates large quantities of high‐strength complex wastewaters from various stages of the process. An effective pretreatment is necessary in order to overcome the low biodegradability of these wastewaters for further biomethane recovery. The present study reports the effect of ozonation on the biodegradability enhancement and biomethanation potential of complex 2G ethanol pretreatment process wastewaters, from acid (H2SO4) and alkali (NaOH) pretreatment process.

RESULTS

Ozonation (9.33 g m−3) was performed for both acid and alkali pretreatment wastewaters at a flow rate of 10 L min−1 for 1 h. Ozonation of both wastewaters increased biodegradability index (BI) up to 36% along with minimal chemical oxygen demand (COD; 7 ± 3%), color (10 ± 4%), and toxicity (22.5 ± 7.5%) reduction. Biomethane potential tests were carried out for the control and ozonated wastewaters having BI > 0.4. The acid‐pretreatment wastewater indicated poor biomethanation potential due to high presence of sulfates (COD/SO4 ~ 3.0). However, ozonation of alkali‐pretreatment wastewater facilitated up to twofold enhancement in the cumulative methane volume, while the enhancement in the rate of methane production was found to be up to 47%. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopic analysis of control and ozonated wastewaters revealed the breakdown of complex organic molecules and aromatics to readily biodegradable intermediates. The kinetics of methane generation could be predicted by the modified Gompertz model.

CONCLUSION

The study demonstrated the efficacy of ozonation as an effective pretreatment option to facilitate biodegradability enhancement of 2G ethanol pretreatment process wastewaters. The enhancement in biodegradability was observed to enable subsequent biogas recovery via anaerobic digestion along with COD removal. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Catalytic degradation of dyes on N‐doped bioresource char and its radical and nonradical mechanism
Authors: Liu Hongyu , Wen Xin , Hu Meng , Zhang Huan , Wei Junfu
Published: March 2023

BACKGROUND

Biochar has received much attention for disposal of aqueous organic contaminants because of its great potential in adsorption and catalysis. N‐doped rice husk biochar (N‐BC) was synthesized in this work and used to activate potassium peroxymonosulfate (PMS) to remove different types of dyes. The influence of preparation conditions of N‐BC and reactive conditions on removal rate was discussed in detail. Free radical quenching experiment and electron spin resonance were used to analyze the active species and mechanism in the reaction.

RESULTS

N‐BC with abundant graphitic‐N, which is the main form of N to activate PMS, can be obtained by N‐doping with carbamide at 900 °C. The removal rate for new coccine can reach nearly 100% in 30 min. Furthermore, the removal rate can still be maintained at 77.21% after reusing four times only washing with water, and it can be further promoted to 98.78% after annealing treatment at 900 °C. N‐BC has excellent applicability to different types of dyes.

CONCLUSION

Consequently, the mechanism is the combination of radical (O2•−) and nonradical (1O2) oxidation. First, the preparation method in this work is relatively simple. Second, the material can adapt to a very wide pH range. Third, the material shows high efficiency at room temperature (the removal rate can reach nearly 100% in 30 min). Fourth, the material shows high efficiency with only a small amount. This study provides a new path of rapid dye water purification using biochar, with simple synthesis, wide pH range adaptability, and high efficiency with only a small amount. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Carbon/Mn3O4/SrTiO3 microsphere photocatalyst for the efficient removal of high‐concentration methylene blue from water
Authors: Zhang Chenyang , Qi Haojie , Zhang Yuping , Li Chao , Zhang Qinqin , Hu Guangzhi , Li Zaixing
Published: March 2023

BACKGROUND

With the development of the textile and dye industry, a large amount of dye wastewater has been discharged. Semiconductor photocatalysis has been widely used in the treatment of environmental pollution, so it is very important to study efficient, nontoxic and stable photocatalysts.

RESULTS

In this study, a microspherical activated carbon/Mn3O4/SrTiO3 composite photocatalyst with high catalytic activity was synthesized using sol–gel and chemical precipitation methods. The photocatalyst was characterized through X‐ray diffraction, scanning and transmission electron microscopy, energy dispersive spectroscopy, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, photoluminescence, Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy and photocurrent measurements, and the effects of the initial methylene blue (MB) concentration and pH on the catalytic performance of the photocatalyst were investigated. The results revealed that the MC/Mn3O4/SrTiO3 composite has large light absorbance, and it can effectively inhibit photoinduced electron–hole pair recombination. The catalyst exhibited high photocatalytic degradation activity, and the degradation efficiency of MB at 300 ppm and pH 7 reached 99% after 80 min of UV light irradiation. The photodegradation process conformed to the pseudo‐first‐order kinetic model. Recyclability experiments showed that MC/Mn3O4/SrTiO3 composite has high stability, and the degradation rate of MB is > 70% after three repeat uses.

CONCLUSIONS

This work provides a new method for finding low‐cost, high‐performance materials that can be modified and put into industrial use. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Outcomes on an inpatient oncology service after the introduction of hospitalist comanagement
Authors: Morris Jensa C. , Gould Rothberg Bonnie E. , Prsic Elizabeth , Parker Nathaniel A. , Weber Urs M. , Gombos Erin A. , Kottarathara Mathew J. , Billingsley Kevin , Adelson Kerin B.
Published: March 2023

Background

Smilow Cancer Hospital (SCH) introduced hospitalist comanagement to the inpatient oncology service to address long lengths of stay and oncologist burnout.

Objective

To determine the impact of hospitalists on inpatient quality outcomes and oncologist experience.

Interventions

Hospitalists were introduced to one of two inpatient oncology services at SCH. Patients were assigned to teams equally based on capacity. Outcomes on the oncologist‐led, traditional service (TS) were compared with outcomes on the hospitalist service (HS) 6 months after program implementation.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Outcomes included patient volume, length of stay (LOS), early discharge, discharge time, and 30‐day readmission rate. Mixed linear or Poisson models that accounted for multiple admissions during the study duration were used. Oncologist experience was measured by survey.

Results

During the study period, there were 713 discharges, 400 from the HS and 313 from the TS (p = .0003). There was no difference in demographics or severity of illness (SOI) between services. Following adjustment for age, sex, race/ethnicity, cancer type, and discharge disposition, the average LOS was 4.71 on the HS and 5.47 on the TS (p = .01). Adjusted early discharge rate was 6.22% on the HS and 2.06% on the TS (p = .01). Adjusted mean discharge time was 3:45 p.m. on HS and 4:16 p.m. on TS (p = .009). There was no difference in readmission rates. Oncologists reported less stress (p = .001) and a better ability to manage competing responsibilities (p < .0001) while working on the HS.

Conclusions

Hospitalist comanagement significantly improved LOS, early discharge, time of discharge, and oncologist experience without an increase in 30‐day readmissions.
ZNFX1 antisense RNA1 promotes antiviral innate immune responses via modulating ZNFX1 function
Authors: Jia Xin , Zhang Meiqi , Wang Haojia , Cheng Cuiqin , Li Qiqi , Li Yiying , Kong Lingdong , Lan Xihong , Wang Yuxi , Liang Xue , Yuan Shaochun , Wang Yao , Xu Anlong
Published: March 2023

Increasing evidence suggests that natural antisense transcriptional lncRNAs regulate their adjacent coding genes to mediate diverse aspects of biology. Bioinformatics analysis of the previously identified antiviral gene ZNFX1 revealed neighboring lncRNA ZFAS1 transcribed on the opposite strand from ZNFX1. Whether ZFAS1 exerts antiviral function via regulating the dsRNA sensor ZNFX1 is unknown. Here we found that ZFAS1 was upregulated by RNA and DNA viruses and type I IFNs (IFN‐I) dependent on Jak‐STAT signaling, similar to the transcription regulation of ZNFX1. Knockdown of endogenous ZFAS1 partially facilitated viral infection, while ZFAS1 overexpression showed opposite effects. In addition, mice were more resistant to VSV infection with the delivery of human ZFAS1. We further observed that ZFAS1 knockdown significantly inhibited IFNB1 expression and IFR3 dimerization, whereas ZFAS1 overexpression positively regulated antiviral innate immune pathways. Mechanistically, ZFAS1 positively regulated ZNFX1 expression and antiviral function by enhancing the protein stability of ZNFX1, thereby establishing a positive feedback loop to enhance antiviral immune activation status. In short, ZFAS1 is a positive regulator of antiviral innate immune response via regulating its neighbor gene ZNFX1, adding new mechanistic insight into lncRNA‐mediated regulation of signaling in innate immunity.
Novel FDNR, FDNC and lossy inductor simulators employing second generation voltage conveyor (VCII)
Authors: Faseehuddin Mohammad , Shireen Sadia , Herencsar Norbert , Tangsrirat Worapong
Published: March 2023

In this research the second‐generation voltage conveyor (VCII) is employed in the design of grounded frequency dependent negative resistor (FDNR) and Frequency dependent negative conductance (FDNC). Additionally, two lossy parallel and series R‐L inductor simulators are also designed. To the best knowledge of the authors above mentioned immittance simulators are first time implemented using VCII. The FDNR requires two VCII, two capacitors and one grounded resistor. FDNC is implemented using three VCII, three resistors and two grounded capacitors. The R‐L inductor emulators requires two VCII, two resistors and one grounded capacitor. All the presented immittance simulators do not require any kind of passive component matching. The non‐ideal gain and sensitivity analysis is conducted to study their performance under circuit parameter variations. Parasitic analysis is also done for the FDNR, FDNC and R‐L inductance simulators to study the effect of parasitic impedance on the circuit operation. To validate the designs, they are simulated in Cadence design environment using 0.18 μm process design kit (PDK) at ±0.9 V supply. Additionally, the circuits are also validated using the macro model of commercially available integrated circuit (IC) AD844. The theoretical and simulation results are found to be in close agreement.
Consumer adoption of on‐demand digital platforms: An integrated model
Authors: Lim Tze‐Yin , Lim Bibiana Chiu‐Yiong , Leong Choi‐Meng , Phang Ing Grace , Foong Weng Heng
Published: March 2023

On‐demand digital platforms are omnipresent in the contemporary marketplace of the digital era. The purpose of this study was to assess the factors influencing consumers’ intention to adopt on‐demand digital platforms in the context of a developing country. Based on a modified integration of the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology (UTAUT) and the social influence theory, this study contended that electronic word‐of‐mouth (eWOM) about on‐demand digital platforms shapes consumers' perceived risk and subjective norms, which, along with the other elements of UTAUT, influence their intention to use on‐demand digital platforms. A self‐administered questionnaire was developed and distributed online, yielding a total of 226 responses, which were analyzed using partial least squares structural equation modelling. The findings revealed that performance expectancy, effort expectancy, subjective norms, and perceived risk significantly affect consumers’ intention, wherein eWOM reduces perceived risk and shapes subjective norms to adopt on‐demand digital platforms. Therefore, this study contributes to the literature on consumer adoption of new‐age digital products, and in this case, on‐demand digital platforms, with implications for theory and practice in this space.
The impact of corporate social responsibility practices on employees’ engagement: The mediating role of organizational identification
Authors: Ibrahim Yasser , Ahmed Mahmoud Mohamed , Nayel Mohamed Tarek
Published: March 2023

Employees’ engagement is an important aspect of human resources management, which is instrumental in the organization's success. Many studies have shown that corporate social responsibility (CSR) practices have a positive impact on organizational outcomes; however, few have examined the perspectives of employees, and even fewer have concentrated on the CSR practices toward stakeholders, namely employees, customers, community, government, and environment. Here, the present study examines the direct and indirect effects of perceived CSR on employees’ engagement through organizational identification as the mediating variable. A survey of 420 employees in the hospitality industry, using the SEM method, constitutes the basis for the conceptual model analysis. The findings reveal that CSR practices and identification are essential drivers of employees’ engagement. Furthermore, the findings show that perceived CSR practices toward stakeholders, except for customers, significantly influences both organizational identification and employees’ engagement. The findings also show that organizational identification plays a key mediating role in the relationship between perceived CSR and employees’ engagement. The findings emphasize the need for five‐star hotels to consider CSR practices as a strategic instrument to build the engagement of their employees. This study discusses the theoretical and practical implications of these findings, and provides suggestions for future research.
Tubomanometry in measurement of velopharyngeal closure: A pilot study
Authors: Teixeira Miriam S. , Swarts John Douglas , Lim Audrey Y. N. , Alper Cuneyt M.
Published: March 2023

Objective

To investigate the differences in velum closure pattern in people with and without a history of middle ear disease using intranasal pressure curves recorded with the tubomanometer, a Eustachian tube (ET) testing device.

Study Design

Case control study.

Setting

Tertiary referral center.

Subjects and Methods

Tubomanometry nasopharyngeal pressure curves from 20 controls (Group 1) and 20 people with history of otitis media (OM) and possible ongoing ET dysfunction (ETD) (Group 2 or OM/ETD group) were compared. The variables included in the analysis were: (a) ratio of signal amplitude relative to the delivered nasal pressure (C2/delivered pressure x 10); (b) time (s) to achieve maximal signal amplitude (C2‐C1); (c) duration of velum closure (s) and (d) plateau decay during the isometric contraction of the velum (C3‐C2) and (e) swallow duration (s) (C4‐C1). Statistical analysis was conducted using mixed models for the normalized values of individual characteristics.

Results

Age, race and sex distribution in each group was as follows: 24 ± 8 years, 15 whites and 12 females in Group 1; 20 ± 10 years, 19 whites and 15 females in Group 2. Group 2 demonstrated a greater velopharyngeal pressure decay (p = .13), longer swallow duration (p = .10), and longer duration of velum closure (p = .14).

Conclusion

This is the first study using tubomanometry to investigate differences in velopharyngeal closure between controls and individuals with OM/ETD. Although not statistically significant, our results showed that those with OM/ETD demonstrated a longer swallow and velum closure duration, and a higher degree of leakage during velum contraction compared to controls.
Geodesics as products of one‐parameter subgroups in compact lie groups and homogeneous spaces
Authors: Souris Nikolaos Panagiotis
Published: March 2023

We study the geodesic equation for compact Lie groups G and homogeneous spaces , and we prove that the geodesics are orbits of products of one‐parameter subgroups of G, provided that a simple algebraic condition for the Riemannian metric is satisfied. For the group , we relate this type of geodesics to the free motion of a symmetric top. Moreover, by using series of Lie subgroups of G, we construct a wealth of metrics having the aforementioned type of geodesics.
Highly efficient export of a disulfide‐bonded protein to the periplasm and medium by the Tat pathway using CyDisCo in Escherichia coli
Authors: Arauzo‐Aguilera Klaudia , Saaranen Mirva J. , Robinson Colin , Ruddock Lloyd W.
Published: March 2023

High‐value heterologous proteins produced in Escherichia coli that contain disulfide bonds are almost invariably targeted to the periplasm via the Sec pathway as it, among other advantages, enables disulfide bond formation and simplifies downstream processing. However, the Sec system cannot transport complex or rapidly folding proteins, as it only transports proteins in an unfolded state. The Tat system also transports proteins to the periplasm, and it has significant potential as an alternative means of recombinant protein production because it transports fully folded proteins. Most of the studies related to Tat secretion have used the well‐studied TorA signal peptide that is Tat‐specific, but this signal peptide also tends to induce degradation of the protein of interest, resulting in lower yields. This makes it difficult to use Tat in the industry. In this study, we show that a model disulfide bond‐containing protein, YebF, can be exported to the periplasm and media at a very high level by the Tat pathway in a manner almost completely dependent on cytoplasmic disulfide formation, by other two putative Tat SPs: those of MdoD and AmiC. In contrast, the TorA SP exports YebF at a low level.
Human mpox: Biology, epidemiology, therapeutic options, and development of small molecule inhibitors
Authors: Tang Hairong , Zhang Ao
Published: March 2023

Although monkeypox (mpox) has been endemic in Western and Central Africa for 50 years, it has not received sufficient prophylactic and therapeutical attention to avoid evolving into an epidemic. From January 2022 to January 2023, more than 84,000 of mpox cases were reported from 110 countries worldwide. Case numbers appear to be rising every day, making mpox an increasing global public health threat for the foreseeable future. In this perspective, we review the known biology and epidemiology of mpox virus, together with the latest therapeutic options available for mpox treatment. Further, small molecule inhibitors against mpox virus and the future directions in this field are discussed as well.
The beavertail modified radial forearm free flap: Retrospective review of a versatile technique to increase flap bulk in the head and neck
Authors: Hanubal Krishna S. , Reschly William J. , Conrad Dustin , Festa Bianca Maria , Weiss Joshua P. , Shama Mohamed , Danan Deepa , Hughley Brian , Dziegielewski Peter T.
Published: March 2023

Objective

Utilization of free tissue transfers in head and neck reconstruction has greatly increased due to their dependability and reliability. Anterolateral thigh (ALT) and rectus abdominus (RA) free flaps may provide too much soft tissue bulk, especially in patients with a large body habitus. A radial forearm free flap (RFFF) may be modified with a “beaver tail” (BT), which provides a flap whose bulk may be tailored to a defect. The purpose of this paper is to describe the technique, how it can be used for a variety of defects and the outcomes of these reconstructions.

Methods

A retrospective review of prospectively collected data was performed at single tertiary care center between 2012 and 2022. BT‐RFFF was designed by leaving a fibroadipose tail vascularized to branches of the radial artery or separated from the vascular pedicle and left attached to the proximal portion of the skin paddle. Functional outcomes, tracheostomy dependence, and gastrostomy tube (G‐tube) dependence as well as complications were determined.

Results

Fifty‐eight consecutive patients undergoing BTRFFF were included. Defects reconstructed included: oral tongue and/or floor of mouth 32 (55%), oropharynx 10 (17%), parotid 6 (10%), orbit 6 (10%), lateral temporal bone 3 (5%), and mentum 1 (2%). Indications for BTRFF were: need for bulk when the ALT and RA were too thick (53%) and need for a separate subcutaneous flap for contouring or deep defect lining (47%). Complications directly related to beavertail included a widened forearm scar (100%), wrist contracture (2%) partial flap loss (2%), and flap loss requiring a revision flap (3%). Ninety‐three percent of patients with oral/oropharyngeal defects and 12‐month follow‐up tolerated oral intake without aspiration and 76% were tube‐independent. Ninety‐three percent were tracheostomy‐free at last follow‐up.

Conclusion

The BTRFF is a useful tool for reconstructing complex 3D defects requiring bulk where an ALT or rectus would otherwise provide too much bulk.
Micromechanical formulation of first‐ and second‐order works in unsaturated granular media
Authors: Eghbalian Mahdad , Pouragha Mehdi , Wan Richard
Published: March 2023

The current work provides a micromechanical formulation of the first‐ and second‐order works for unsaturated granular media. For this purpose, a Representative Elementary Volume (REV) of a triphasic medium is considered, which consists of a collection of particles with the pore space in between them occupied by wetting and non‐wetting fluids. By assigning a kinematics to the REV at the micro‐scale, the first‐ and second‐order works of internal forces associated with the solid phase, fluids, and the interfaces between them are derived. The formulations are presented in the most general case considering large deformations within both Eulerian and Lagrangian formalisms, while the special case of infinitesimal deformation and rotation is also investigated. With respect to classical formulations, the obtained expressions for the first‐ and second‐order works include additional contributions related to the deformation of the interface of the two fluids, and in case of the first‐order work, the change in geometry of the intersection line of the three phases. Next, we consider a special case of pendular regime at low wetting saturation, where the wetting fluid appears as a set of isolated liquid bridges formed between particle pairs. Such condition has been previously simulated via Discrete Element Method (DEM) numerical framework where the distributed capillary forces are replaced with a resultant capillary force that is added as a new contact force. We show here that using the resultant capillary force, the generated first‐ and second‐order works in the REV are generally different from the ones produced by the distributed capillary forces, unless under special conditions.
Space and chaos‐expansion Galerkin proper orthogonal decomposition low‐order discretization of partial differential equations for uncertainty quantification
Authors: Benner Peter , Heiland Jan
Published: March 2023

The quantification of multivariate uncertainties in partial differential equations can easily exceed any computing capacity unless proper measures are taken to reduce the complexity of the model. In this work, we propose a multidimensional Galerkin proper orthogonal decomposition that optimally reduces each dimension of a tensorized product space. We provide the analytical framework and results that define and quantify the low‐dimensional approximation. We illustrate its application for uncertainty modeling with polynomial chaos expansions and show its efficiency in a numerical example.
Design strategies of the mantis shrimp spike: How the crustacean cuticle became a remarkable biological harpoon
Authors: Delaunois Yann , Tits Alexandra , Grossman Quentin , Smeets Sarah , Malherbe Cédric , Eppe Gauthier , van Lenthe G. Harry , Ruffoni Davide , Compère Philippe
Published: March 2023

Spearing mantis shrimps are aggressive crustaceans using specialized appendages with sharp spikes to capture fishes with fast movement. Each spike is a biological tool that has to combine high toughness, as required by the initial impact with the victim, with high stiffness and strength, to ensure sufficient penetration while avoid breaking. We performed a multimodal analysis to uncover the design strategies of this harpoon based on chitin. We found that the spike is a slightly hooked hollow beam with the outer surface decorated by serrations and grooves to enhance cutting and interlocking. The cuticle of the spike resembles a multilayer composite: An outer heavily mineralized, stiff, and hard region (with average indentation modulus and hardness of 68 and 3 GPa), providing high resistance to contact stresses, is combined with a less mineralized region, which occupies a large fraction of the cuticle (up to 50%) and features parallel fibers oriented longitudinally, enhancing stiffness and strength. A central finding of our work is the presence of a tiny interphase (less than 10 μm in width) based on helical fibers and showing a spatial modulation in mechanical properties, which has the critical task to integrate the stiff but brittle outer layer with the more compliant highly anisotropic parallel‐fiber region. We highlighted the remarkable ability of this helicoidal region to stop nanoindentation‐induced cracks. Using three‐dimensional multimaterial printing to prototype spike‐inspired composites, we showed how the observed construction principles can not only hamper damage propagation between highly dissimilar layers (resulting in composites with the helical interphase absorbing 50% more energy than without it) but can also enhance resistance to puncture (25% increase in the force required to penetrate the composites with a blunt tool). Such findings may provide guidelines to design lightweight harpoons relying on environmentally friendly and recyclable building blocks.

Key Points

The heavily mineralized biological appendages of the mantis shrimp are a constant source of inspiration for developing new engineering materials.

We use characterization methods of material science to investigate a biological harpoon based on chitin.

Several morphological, compositional, microstructural, and biomechanical features are highlighted, allowing the spikes of the mantis shrimp to be remarkable lightweight, tough, and stiff harpoons.
Net Zero: A Race We Can Win Together
Authors: Alexander Austin
Published: March 2023

The water sector can continue its vital mission to ensure safe drinking water while reducing greenhouse gas emissions with strategies available today.
Pressure‐Reducing Valves Protect 14‐Mile Raw Water Transmission Main
Authors: Jensen Laura
Published: March 2023

In 2015, three North Carolina water utilities—Cape Fear Public Utility Authority (CFPUA), Lower Cape Fear Water & Sewer Authority (LCFWASA), and Brunswick County—prepared a raw water supply analysis that found raw water demands in southeastern North Carolina would increase by 190% in the next four decades. Driven by population growth, the projections also indicated that the supply capacity of LCFWASA's Kings Bluff Raw Water Facilities, which serves local governments and industry across five counties, would most likely be surpassed by 2025.
New Zealand (Aotearoa) clinicians' perspectives on the utility of the ICD‐11 personality disorder diagnosis
Authors: Brown Tiffany A. , Sellbom Martin , Bach Bo , Newton‐Howes Giles
Published: March 2023

The ICD‐11 has now taken effect and includes a new dimensional personality disorder (PD) diagnosis. The current study aimed to examine Aotearoa/New Zealand practitioners' perceptions of the clinical utility of the new PD system. A sample of 124 psychologists and psychiatrists completed a survey, applying the DSM‐5 and ICD‐11 PD diagnostic systems to a current patient, and completed clinical utility metrics on the DSM‐5 and ICD‐11 models. Additional open‐ended questions further elicited clinicians' perceptions of the strengths, weaknesses and potential application issues of the ICD‐11 PD diagnosis, and these responses were analysed through thematic analysis. Overall, the ICD‐11 system was rated higher than the DSM‐5 on all six clinical metrics, with no significant difference between psychologists' and psychiatrists' ratings. Five themes emerged: appreciation for an alternative to DSM‐5, structural barriers preventing ICD‐11 PD implementation, personal barriers to ICD‐11 implementation, diagnoses viewed as low utility, clinician preference for formulation and cultural safety considerations for implementation of ICD‐11 PD in Aotearoa/NZ. Overall, clinicians had positive opinions of the clinical utility of the ICD‐11 PD diagnosis, although expressed some concerns about its implementation. The study expands upon initial evidence that mental health practitioners have generally positive perceptions of the ICD‐11 PDs' clinical utility.
Bridging the digital divide for Native American tribes: Roadblocks to broadband and community resilience
Authors: Korostelina Karina V. , Barrett Jocelyn
Published: March 2023

Native American reservations are faced with a growing need for High‐speed Internet and broadband access but face a variety of barriers to broadband infrastructure deployment. This paper discusses the difficulties tribal nations have faced in developing their education, economy, and access to healthcare and public safety due to the roadblocks in building this infrastructure within their tribes. Using case studies and interviews from over 30 Native American tribes, we reveal the shift of responsibility from federal institutions to Native American communities, stressing a tendency to downplay structural factors of exclusion and inequality affecting tribes' resilience practices. Our article advances the understanding of external and internal factors of roadblocks that Native American tribes have not yet been able to overcome, stemming from limitations of support by state and government institutions, limited capacities and knowledge among tribal members, and complex terrain that also has a sacred value to tribes. Results indicate that resilient communities can produce and sustain practices to overcome internal obstacles, during which resilience practices continue expanding the community's capacity to develop its digital systems and leadership.
Synthesis of homo polymers and block copolymers of chiral/achiral phenylacetylene derivatives. Spectroscopic and molecular modeling study on solvent‐dependent predominance of helical sense
Authors: Goto Masahide , Mino Shota , Sogawa Hiromitsu , Sanda Fumio
Published: March 2023

A chiral acetylene monomer, (S)‐4‐(2‐butoxy)phenylacetylene [(S)‐1] and an achiral acetylene monomer, 4‐propoxyphenylacetylene (2) were block copolymerized using [(nbd)Rh{C(Ph)=CPh2}(PPh3)]/PPh3 as a catalyst to obtain chiral‐first/achiral‐second and achiral‐first/chiral‐second block copolymers, poly[(S)‐1]‐block‐poly(2) and poly(2)‐block‐poly[(S)‐1]. The block copolymers exhibited circular dichroism (CD) signals in THF attributable to helical conformation with predominantly one‐handed screw sense originating from the poly[(S)‐1] block. In CHCl3, the block copolymers exhibited CD signals with signs reversed from those in THF. The conformational stability of the copolymers was dependent on the composition of (S)‐1 units, regardless of the feed order of the chiral and achiral monomers. The solvent‐dependent predominance of helical sense was confirmed by the molecular dynamics (MD) simulations of poly[(S)‐1] 32‐mer models.
Mechanical–thermal–chemical coupled modeling techniques and numerical simulation methods for the firearm igniting process
Authors: Wei Zhifang , Xin Changfan , Hou Xiucheng , Su Yanfei , Wang Fangzhou
Published: March 2023

The firing and ignition of firearms is a complex process involving the coupled effects of mechanical, thermal, and chemical mechanisms. The theoretical modeling and numerical simulation methods for primer mixture impact and ignition process are investigated to reveal the response patterns of characteristic variables, such as primer output pressure and the crater on the primer cup that forms when the firing pin strikes the primer to ignite the primer mixture. Theoretical models such as the elastoplastic mechanical response of the primer mixture, the pore collapse hot spot model, and the Lee‐Tarver ignition and growth model are established by studying the impact response, the initiation mechanism, the hot spot formation mechanism, and the energy release mechanism of the primer mixture. Constitutive models of the primer mixture and the primer cup material are established based on a dynamic compression test of the primer mixture under passive confining pressure and a quasi‐static tensile test of the primer cup material. A numerical model of the primer mixture impact and ignition performance is constructed by using ANSYS LS‐DYNA software. The simulation parameters are serially simulated and calibrated through the 3D total Lagrange algorithm. The firing and ignition response process of a small‐caliber firearm is simulated with the 3D Activation Likelihood Estimation (ALE) algorithm. The relative error between the simulated results and the test results is below 15 %, which validates the feasibility of the numerical simulation methods for the firing and ignition performances of firearms.
Antifungal alkaloids from the branch‐leaves of Clausena lansium Lour. Skeels (Rutaceae)
Authors: Zhang Yu‐Wei , Fu Xiao‐Xiang , Chen Ji‐Guang , Yang Yu‐Le , Wu Wei‐Xuan , Xiao Su‐Ling , Huang Ying‐Jin , Peng Wen‐Wen
Published: March 2023

BACKGROUND

The rational utilization of botanical secondary metabolites is one of the strategies to reduce the application of chemical fungicides. The extensive biological activities of Clausena lansium indicate that it has the potential to develop botanical fungicides.

RESULTS

A systematic investigation on the antifungal alkaloids from C. lansium branch‐leaves following bioassay‐guided isolation was implemented. Sixteen alkaloids, including two new and nine known carbazole alkaloids, one known quinoline alkaloid and four known amides, were isolated. Compounds 4, 7, 12 and 14 showed strong antifungal activity on Phytophthora capsiciwith EC50 values ranging from 50.67 to 70.82 μg mL−1. Compounds 1, 3, 8, 10, 11, 12 and 16 displayed different degrees of antifungal activity against Botryosphaeria dothidea with EC50 values ranging from 54.18 to 129.83 μg mL−1. It was reported for the first time that these alkaloids had antifungal effects on P. capsici or B. dothidea, and their structure–activity relationships were further discussed systematically. Additionally, among all alkaloids, dictamine (12) had the strongest antifungal activities against P. capsici (EC50 = 50.67 μg mL−1) and B. dothidea (EC50 = 54.18 μg mL−1), and its physiological effects on P. capsici and B. dothidea also were further evaluated.

CONCLUSION

Capsicum lansium is a potential source of antifungal alkaloids, and C. lansium alkaloids had the potential as lead compounds of botanical fungicides in the development of new fungicides with novel action mechanism. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Testing the role of allelochemicals in different wheat cultivars to sustainably manage weeds
Authors: Vieites‐Álvarez Yedra , Otero Paz , Prieto Miguel Angel , Simal‐Gandara Jesus , Reigosa Manuel J , Sánchez‐Moreiras Adela M , Hussain M. Iftikhar
Published: March 2023

Background

Selecting wheat varieties with allelopathic potential or high competitiveness against weeds is a sustainable solution for organic farming to eliminate the use of synthetic herbicides. Wheat is one of the most economically important crops. This study focuses on screening the allelopathic or competitive potential of four wheat cultivars, Maurizio, NS 40S, Adesso and Element, on two weeds of interest due to acquired herbicide resistance, Portulaca oleracea and Lolium rigidum, through germination and growth bioassays and the identification and quantification of benzoxazinoids (BXZs) and polyphenols (phenolic acids and flavonoids).

Results

The different cultivars showed different abilities to manage surrounding weeds and different capacity to exude or accumulate specialized metabolites in the presence of those weeds. Furthermore, each cultivar behaved differently depending on the weed present in the medium. The most efficient cultivar to control the tested monocot and dicot weeds was Maurizio, as it effectively controlled germination and growth of L. rigidum and P. oleracea while exuding large amounts of benzoxazinones through the roots, especially the hydroxamic acids 2,4‐dihydroxy‐7‐methoxy‐1,4‐benzoxazin‐3‐one and dihydroxy‐2H‐1,4‐benzoxaxin‐3(4H)‐one. By contrast, NS 40S, Adesso and Element showed the potential to control the growth of just one of the two weeds through allelopathy or competition.

Conclusion

This study reveals that Maurizio is the most promising wheat cultivar for sustainable weed control, and that the screening of crop varieties with allelopathic potential, which results in the displacement of synthetic herbicides, is an immediate solution in ecological and sustainable agriculture. © 2023 The Authors. Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Immune checkpoint inhibitor‐related haemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis in a patient with non‐small cell lung carcinoma
Authors: Oyama Setsuko , Shirai Tatsuya , Abe Yukiko , Tsuchiya Maya , Inui Toshiya , Suhara Kozo , Noto Satoshi , Kamimura Mitsuhiro
Published: March 2023

Key message

Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) has been reported as a rare complication of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICI); however, ICI‐related HLH is a life‐threatening and comparatively late adverse event. Early diagnosis is critical, and it should be included in the differential diagnosis especially in patients with cytopenia with fever and hyperferritinaemia.
Mitochondria‐Targeting Phthalocyanines and Porphyrins for Enhanced Photodynamic Tumor Therapy
Authors: Li Mengyuan , Zheng Ke , Liu Xinxin
Published: March 2023

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is a promising non‐invasive treatment modality for tumors. However, the lack of attack targets in tumor cells greatly affects the antitumor efficiency of PDT. Mitochondria, as one of the most pivotal subcellular organelles, generated most of the energy for tumor cells and play an important role in tumor cell proliferation. PDT targeting mitochondria provides a practicable scheme for accurate and efficient antitumor treatment. Hence, the strategies of mitochondria‐based PDT using phthalocyanines or porphyrins as photosensitizers was summarized, including covalent modification of photosensitizers, delivery of drug carriers and cellular respiration in mitochondria. This review will provide guidance in the development of precision medicine for cancer treatment.
Directing Highly Ordered and Dense Li Deposition to Achieve Stable Li Metal Batteries
Authors: Shen Haorui , Tang Pei , Wei Qian , Zhang Yutong , Yu Tong , Yang Huicong , Zhang Rui , Tai Kaiping , Tan Jun , Bai Shuo , Li Feng
Published: March 2023

Li metal anode is promising to achieve high‐energy‐density battery. However, it has rapid capacity fading due to the generation of inactive Li (dead Li), especially at high current density. This study reveals that the random distribution of Li nuclei leads to large uncertainty for the further growth behavior on Cu foil. Here, periodical regulation of Li nucleation sites on Cu foil by ordered lithiophilic micro‐grooves is proposed to precisely manipulate the Li deposition morphology. The management of Li deposits in the lithiophilic grooves can induce high pressure on the Li particles, leading to the formation of dense Li structure and smooth surface without dendrite growth. Li deposits comprising tightly packed large Li particles largely reduce the side reaction and the generation of isolated metallic Li at high current density. Less dead Li accumulating on the substrate significantly prolongs the cycling life of full cells with limited Li inventory. The precise manipulation of the Li deposition on Cu is promising for high‐energy and stable Li metal batteries.
Electronic Structure of Colloidal 2H‐MoS2 Mono and Bilayers Determined by Spectroelectrochemistry
Authors: Wurst Kai M. , Strolka Onno , Hiller Jonas , Keck Jakob , Meixner Alfred J. , Lauth Jannika , Scheele Marcus
Published: March 2023

The electronic structure of mono and bilayers of colloidal 2H‐MoS2 nanosheets synthesized by wet‐chemistry using potential‐modulated absorption spectroscopy (EMAS), differential pulse voltammetry, and electrochemical gating measurements is investigated. The energetic positions of the conduction and valence band edges of the direct and indirect bandgap are reported and observe strong bandgap renormalization effects, charge screening of the exciton, as well as intrinsic n‐doping of the as‐synthesized material. Two distinct transitions in the spectral regime associated with the C exciton are found, which overlap into a broad signal upon filling the conduction band. In contrast to oxidation, the reduction of the nanosheets is largely reversible, enabling potential applications for reductive electrocatalysis. This work demonstrates that EMAS is a highly sensitive tool for determining the electronic structure of thin films with a few nanometer thicknesses and that colloidal chemistry affords high‐quality transition metal dichalcogenide nanosheets with an electronic structure comparable to that of exfoliated samples.