bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MEASURE THE CLIMATE, MODEL THE CITY
Authors: Boufidou E. , Commandeur T. J. F. , Nedkov S. B. , Zlatanova S.
Published: September 2011

Abstract. Modern large cities are characterized by a high building concentration, little aeration and lack of green spaces. Such characteristics create an urban climate which is different from the climate outside of cities. An example of an urban climate effect is the so-called Urban Heat Island: cities tend to be warmer than the surrounding rural areas. The higher temperature results in an increase in energy consumption since people, especially in summer, use artificial means to cool themselves. Although means of mitigating the UHI effect exist, they are difficult to justify, as knowledge about urban climate is limited, and analysis tools are lacking. This paper presents the work carried during the 2010 MSc Geomatics Synthesis Project. A 3D spatial relational database has been implemented which is meant to act as starting point in the development of a 3D climate-enabled geographical information system. To this end, the database stores 3D geometries representing the built environment and its thematic properties. The database is also able to store measurements of climate parameters, in this case temperature, obtained through mobile sensors. Spatial analyses and queries are supported, allowing users to calculate areas, distances, buffers, add and remove geometries and thematic attributes. The database design is based on the CityGML information model which has been extended to allow the storage of climate parameters relevant to urban climate research.
THE SPACE-SCALE CUBE: AN INTEGRATED MODEL FOR 2D POLYGONAL AREAS AND SCALE
Authors: Meijers B. M. , van Oosterom P. J. M.
Published: September 2011

Abstract. This paper introduces the concept of a space-scale partition, which we term the space-scale cube – analogous with the space-time cube (first introduced by Hägerstrand, 1970). We take the view of '"map generalization is extrusion of 2D data into the third dimension" (as introduced by Vermeij et al., 2003). An axiomatic approach formalizes the validity of the partition of space in three dimensions (2D space plus 1D scale). Furthermore the paper provides insights in how to: 1. obtain valid data for the cube, 2. obtain a valid 2D polygonal map at variable scale from the cube and 3. which other possibilities the cube brings for obtaining maps having different map scales over their domain (which we term mixed-scale maps).
US Residents’ Recognition of Proper Use of Firearm Cable Locks
Authors: Bandel Shelby L. , Moceri-Brooks Jayna , Bond Allison E. , Semenza Daniel , Anestis Michael D.
Published: June 2024

This survey study examines the ability of firearm owners and nonowners to determine correct and incorrect cable lock use across different types of firearms.
High‐Pressure Synthesis of Amorphous Si3N4 and SiBN‐Based Monoliths without Sintering Additives
Authors: Li Wei , Ma Shuailing , Cui Siwen , Ding Jingxue , Widenmeyer Marc , Zhang Xiaoqi , Zhan Ying , Yu Zhaoju , Cheng Jiarong , Zhu Pinwen , Cui Tian , Weidenkaff Anke , Riedel Ralf
Published: June 2024

Amorphous Si3N4 and SiBN monoliths without sintering additives are successfully prepared by high‐pressure–low‐temperature (HPLT) sintering using the single‐source‐precursor‐derived amorphous Si3N4 and SiBN powders as raw materials. The microstructural evolution and crystallization behavior of the as‐prepared samples are investigated using scanning electron and transmission electron microscopy and X‐ray powder diffraction, respectively. The results show that the incorporation of boron in the Si–N network enhances the crystallization temperature up to 1200 °C. The Vickers’ hardness of the HPLT‐sintered Si3N4 sample amounts ≈11.6 GPa whether prepared at 1000 or 1200 °C, while the maximum hardness of the SiBN sample is up to 16.3 GPa. The fracture toughness of amorphous Si3N4 and SiBN5 samples is almost identical (around 2.5 MPa m1/2) whether prepared at 1000 or 1200 °C, and SiBN2 and SiBN5 samples show an improved fracture toughness. In addition, the oxidation resistance of the as‐prepared samples is investigated at temperatures up to 1000 °C. A comparison between amorphous Si3N4 and SiBN monoliths demonstrates a positive effect of the presence of boron on their oxidation resistance.
Micro/Nano‐Structured Superhydrophobic Gas Diffusion Electrode for Boosting the Stability of Industrial‐Compatible Electrochemical CO Production in Flow Cells
Authors: Jiang Zhe , Lyu Zhen‐Hua , Liu Xiao‐Zhi , Fu Jiaju , Zhang Libing , Yao Ze‐Cheng , Zheng Li‐Rong , Su Dong , Fan You‐Jun , Tang Tang , Hu Jin‐Song
Published: June 2024

Electrochemical flow cells based on gas diffusion electrodes (GDEs) provide a potential means to achieve industrial‐compatible massive CO production. However, the application of flow cells is hindered by the stability issue caused by GDE hydrophilizing and electrolyte flooding. The current strategies have certain limitations in maintaining the long‐term hydrophobicity of GDE. Inspired by the superhydrophobic materials in nature, here a constructionally engineered superhydrophobic GDE is presented for boosting the stability of CO2 reduction to CO in flow cells under industrial‐compatible current densities. This superhydrophobic GDE is comprised of micro/nano‐structured CNTs/graphene composites with abundant and robust single‐atomic Ni‐Nx active sites (NiSA‐CNT@G). The unique integrated hierarchical structure with highly exposed surface area and enhanced mass/charge transfer contributes to an industrial‐scale CO partial current density of 406.5 mA cm−2 with a FECO of 96.3% in a flow cell. Notably, the robust superhydrophobic micro/nanostructure efficiently resists electrolyte flooding over the GDE during the CO2RR, thus maintaining a stable three‐phase interface. Over 70 h stability is demonstrated at an industrial‐compatible current density of 300 mA cm−2. These results open up new opportunities for industrial‐level CO production via electrochemical CO2RR.
Sensitive Intracellular Recording of Action Potentials by Supramolecular Self‐Assembled Electrodes
Authors: Xiao Xuedong , Xu Dongxin , Han Haote , Wang Duan‐Chao , Lei Sheng‐Nan , Liu Rui , Hu Ning , Sessler Jonathan L. , Huang Feihe
Published: June 2024

Developing accurate electrophysiological recording platforms is crucial for investigating cellular electrical activities, understanding the mechanisms underlying cardiovascular disease, and advancing therapeutic strategies. While the successful recording of intracellular electrophysiological status has been achieved by 3D micro/nano devices, their preparation through demanding micro/nanofabrication and poorly controllable solvothermal synthesis is an impediment to widespread utilization. Easier‐to‐access recording electrodes are needed. To address this challenge, a simple and efficient supramolecular self‐assembly strategy that allows access to novel 3D electrodes is introduced. It relies on small organic molecules that can be self‐assembled efficiently into various 3D nanostructures, including lamellated nanosheets, thin nanobelts, and short rod‐like structures. Electrodes prepared through the present self‐assembly process are considerably simpler and more cost‐effective than conventional 3D micro/nanoelectrodes prepared through fabrication or solvothermal synthesis. It is demonstrated that the present electrodes allow for higher quality and prolonged intracellular recordings of action potentials as compared to similarly sized conventional planar electrodes. The noted improvements are attributed to the fact that 3D geometrical electrodes enhance the cell‐electrode interface, ensuring tight coupling and effective electroporation. This work showcases how supramolecular self‐assembly might emerge as a promising and powerful electrode preparation strategy that may facilitate low‐cost electrophysiological studies.
Strain‐Programmed Adhesive Patch for Accelerated Photodynamic Wound Healing
Authors: Kim Seong‐Jong , Kim Mungu , Yang Seung Min , Park Kwanghyeon , Hahn Sei Kwang
Published: June 2024

As an alternative to tissue adhesives, photochemical tissue bonding is investigated for advanced wound healing. However, these techniques suffer from relatively slow wound healing with bleeding and bacterial infections. Here, the versatile attributes of afterglow luminescent particles (ALPs) embedded in dopamine‐modified hyaluronic acid (HA–DOPA) patches for accelerated wound healing are presented. ALPs enhance the viscoelastic properties of the patches, and the photoluminescence and afterglow luminescence of ALPs maximize singlet oxygen generation and collagen fibrillogenesis for effective healing in the infected wounds. The patches are optimized to achieve the strong and rapid adhesion in the wound sites. In addition, the swelling and shrinking properties of adhesive patches contribute to a nonlinear behavior in the wound recovery, playing an important role as a strain‐programmed patch. The protective patch prevents secondary infection and skin adhesion, and the patch seamlessly detaches during wound healing, enabling efficient residue clearance. In vitro, in vivo, and ex vivo model tests confirm the biocompatibility, antibacterial effect, hemostatic capability, and collagen restructuring for the accelerated wound healing. Taken together, this research collectively demonstrates the feasibility of HA–DOPA/ALP patches as a versatile and promoting solution for advanced accelerated wound healing, particularly in scenarios involving bleeding and bacterial infections.
Inhibiting the Jahn–Teller Effect of Manganese Hexacyanoferrate via Ni and Cu Codoping for Advanced Sodium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Luo Yifang , Shen Jialong , Yao Yu , Dai Junyi , Ling Fangxin , Li Ling , Jiang Yu , Wu Xiaojun , Rui Xianhong , Yu Yan
Published: June 2024

Manganese (Mn)‐based Prussian blue analogs (PBAs) are of great interest as a prospective cathode material for sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs) due to their high redox potential, easy synthesis, and low cost. However, the Jahn–Teller effect and low electrical conductivity of Mn‐based PBA cause poor structure stability and unsatisfactory performance during the cycling. Herein, a novel nickel‐ and copper‐codoped K2Mn[Fe(CN)6] cathode is developed via a simple coprecipitation strategy. The doping elements improve the electrical conductivity of Mn‐based PBA by reducing the bandgap, as well as suppress the Jahn–Teller effect by stabilizing the framework, as verified by the density functional theory calculations. Simultaneously, the substitution of sodium with potassium in the lattice is beneficial for filling vacancies in the PBA framework, leading to higher average operating voltages and superior structural stability. As a result, the as‐prepared Mn‐based cathode exhibits excellent reversible capacity (116.0 mAh g−1 at 0.01 A g−1) and superior cycling stability (81.8% capacity retention over 500 cycles at 0.1 A g−1). This work provides a profitable doping strategy to inhibit the Jahn–Teller structural deformation for designing stable cathode material of SIBs.
Demonstration of Optical Gain at 1535 nm Based on ErIII Complex‐Doped Polymer Waveguides Under Light‐Emitting Diode Excitation
Authors: He Yan , Man Yi , Shi Xiaowu , Xu Hui , Lin Zhuliang , Zhang Baoping , Yu Daquan , Huang Yuyang , Zhang Dan
Published: June 2024

A near‐infrared luminescent complex Er(DBTTA)3(DBFDPO) [where DBTTA = dibenzotetrathienoacene; DBFDPO = 4,6‐bis (diphenylphosphoryl) dibenzofuran] is synthesized. Based on the intramolecular energy transfer between organic ligands and Er3+ ions, optical gains at 1535 nm are demonstrated in Er(DBTTA)3(DBFDPO)‐doped polymer waveguides under the excitation of light‐emitting diodes (LEDs) instead of laser pumping. Relative gains of 6.4, 8.2, and 10.6 dB are obtained in 1 cm long waveguides with cross‐sectional dimensions of 6 × 4, 4 × 4, and 2 × 3 µm2 respectively, using the vertical top‐pumping mode of a 365 nm LED with 462 mW. Incorporating an ≈100 nm thick aluminum reflector grown under the lower cladding, enhanced the optical gain to 11.6 dB cm−1 in a waveguide with a cross‐section of 4 × 4 µm2, and an internal gain of ≈7.4 dB cm−1 is achieved. By relying on the intramolecular energy transfer and LED top‐pumping technology, the upconversion luminescence of Er3+ ions and thermal damage to polymer waveguides caused by the high power density of laser pumping can be effectively reduced. The complex Er(DBTTA)3(DBFDPO)‐doped polymer can be spin‐coated on different types of waveguides to compensate for optical losses at 1.5 µm and is expected to have a critical role in planar photonic integration.
Corrole Polymers as a Novel Materials for Room Temperature Resistive Gas Sensors
Authors: Zazzo Lorena Di , Filippo Ilaria di , Guido Lorenzo , Magna Gabriele , Lvova Larisa , Caroleo Fabrizio , Stefanelli Manuela , Duranti Leonardo , Nardis Sara , Di Natale Corrado , Paolesse Roberto
Published: June 2024

Corroles, a family of contracted porphyrinoids, exhibit broad chemical interactions, undergo straightforward synthetic preparation and functionalization, and enable versatile thin film deposition. These attributes render them promising candidates for use in chemical sensors. Nevertheless, the inherently limited conductivity of corrole solid films constrains their application in mass and optical sensors. Despite this impediment, there is a great interest in matching the sensitive properties of the corrole with the features of facile miniaturization and integration into low‐cost electronic circuits. This work explores the possibility of directly and simply depositing conductometric polymeric films of [5,10,15‐(4‐aminophenyl)corrolato] copper onto interdigitated electrodes. Remarkably, the electropolymerization protocol allows the selection of the semiconductive nature (p‐ or n‐type) of these films, yielding two distinct sensor types: the former exhibiting high sensitivity and selectivity toward nitrogen monoxide (NO) with a slight influence of relative humidity and the other manifesting a broad spectrum of sensitivities. This breakthrough lays the foundation for developing miniaturized conductometric gas detectors, nonlinear conductometric sensing elements, and electronic nose platforms based on polycorroles.
BRD4 degraders may effectively counteract therapeutic resistance of leukemic stem cells in AML and ALL
Authors: Bauer Karin , Hauswirth Alexander , Gleixner Karoline V. , Greiner Georg , Thaler Johannes , Bettelheim Peter , Filik Yüksel , Koller Elisabeth , Hoermann Gregor , Staber Philipp B. , Sperr Wolfgang R. , Keil Felix , Valent Peter
Published: June 2024

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) are life‐threatening hematopoietic malignancies characterized by clonal expansion of leukemic blasts in the bone marrow and peripheral blood. The epigenetic reader BRD4 and its downstream effector MYC have recently been identified as potential drug targets in human AML and ALL. We compared anti‐leukemic efficacies of the small‐molecule BET inhibitor JQ1 and the recently developed BRD4 degraders dBET1 and dBET6 in AML and ALL cells. JQ1, dBET1, and dBET6 were found to suppress growth and viability in all AML and ALL cell lines examined as well as in primary patient‐derived AML and ALL cells, including CD34+/CD38− and CD34+/CD38+ leukemic stem and progenitor cells, independent of the type (variant) of leukemia or molecular driver expressed in leukemic cells. Moreover, we found that dBET6 overcomes osteoblast‐induced drug resistance in AML and ALL cells, regardless of the type of leukemia or the drug applied. Most promising cooperative or even synergistic drug combination effects were seen with dBET6 and the FLT3 ITD blocker gilteritinib in FLT3 ITD‐mutated AML cells, and with dBET6 and the multi‐kinase blocker ponatinib in BCR::ABL1+ ALL cells. Finally, all BRD4‐targeting drugs suppressed interferon‐gamma‐ and tumor necrosis factor‐alpha‐induced expression of the resistance‐related checkpoint antigen PD‐L1 in AML and ALL cells, including LSC. In all assays examined, the BRD4 degrader dBET6 was a superior anti‐leukemic drug compared with dBET1 and JQ1. Together, BRD4 degraders may provide enhanced inhibition of multiple mechanisms of therapy resistance in AML and ALL.
Re‐Engineering Fungal Nonribosomal Peptide Synthetases by Module Dissection and Duplicated Thiolation Domains
Authors: Yin Miaomiao , Xie Linan , Chen Kang , Zhang Liwen , Yue Qun , Wang Chen , Zeng Juntian , Hao Xiaoyang , Gu Xiaofeng , Molnár István , Xu Yuquan
Published: June 2024

Unnatural product (uNP) nonribosomal peptides promise to be a valuable source of pharmacophores for drug discovery. However, the extremely large size and complexity of the nonribosomal peptide synthetase (NRPS) enzymes pose formidable challenges to the production of such uNPs by combinatorial biosynthesis and synthetic biology. Here we report a new NRPS dissection strategy that facilitates the engineering and heterologous production of these NRPSs. This strategy divides NRPSs into “splitting units”, each forming an enzyme subunit that contains catalytically independent modules. Functional collaboration between the subunits is then facilitated by artificially duplicating, at the N‐terminus of the downstream subunit, the linker ‐ thiolation domain ‐ linker fragment that is resident at the C‐terminus of the upstream subunit. Using the suggested split site that follows a conserved motif in the linker connecting the adenylation and the thiolation domains allows cognate or chimeric splitting unit pairs to achieve productivities that match, and in many cases surpass those of hybrid chimeric enzymes, and even those of intact NRPSs, upon production in a heterologous chassis. Our strategy provides facile options for the rational engineering of fungal NRPSs and for the combinatorial reprogramming of nonribosomal peptide production.
Electrocatalytic Upgrading of Plastic and Biomass‐Derived Polyols to Formamide under Ambient Conditions
Authors: Shi Qiujin , Tang Wengio , Kong Kejian , Liu Xiang , Wang Ye , Duan Haohong
Published: June 2024

Electrocatalytic upgrading of wasted plastic and renewable biomass represents a sustainable method to produce chemicals but is limited to carbohydrates, leaving other value‐added chemicals, such as organonitrogen compounds, being scarcely explored. Herein, we reported an electrocatalytic oxidation strategy to transform polyethylene terephthalate (PET) plastic‐derived ethylene glycol (EG) and biomass‐derived polyols into formamide, in the presence of ammonia (NH3) over a tungsten oxide (WO3) catalyst. Taking EG‐to‐formamide as an example, we achieved a high formamide productivity of 537.7 μmol cm−2 h−1 with FE of 43.2 % at a constant current of 100 mA cm−2 in a flow electrolyzer with 12‐h test, representing a more advantageous performance compared with previous reports for formamide electrosynthesis. Mechanistic understanding revealed that the cleavage of the C−C bond in the EG was facilitated by nucleophilic attack of in situ formed nitrogen radicals from NH3, with resultant C−N bond construction and eventually formamide production. Furthermore, this strategy can be extended to transformation of PET bottle and a series of biomass‐derived polyols with carbon number from three (glycerol) to six (glucose), producing formamide with high efficiencies. This work demonstrates a sustainable upgrading strategy of plastic and biomass that may have implications to more value‐added chemicals production beyond carbohydrates.
Toward Ultra‐High‐Quality‐Factor Wireless Masing Magnetic Resonance Sensing
Authors: Adelabu Isaiah , Nantogma Shiraz , Fleischer Simon , Abdulmojeed Mustapha , de Maissin Henri , Schmidt Andreas B. , Lehmkuhl Soeren , Rosen Matthew S. , Appelt Stephan , Theis Thomas , Qian Chunqi , Chekmenev Eduard Y.
Published: June 2024

It has recently been shown that a bolus of hyperpolarized nuclear spins can yield stimulated emission signals similar in nature to maser signals, potentially enabling new ways of sensing hyperpolarized contrast media, including most notably [1‐13C]pyruvate that is under evaluation in over 50 clinical trials for metabolic imaging of cancer. The stimulated NMR signal emissions lasting for minutes do not require radio‐frequency excitation, offering unprecedented advantages compared to conventional MR sensing. However, creating nuclear spin maser emission is challenging in practice due to stringent fundamental requirements, making practical in vivo applications hardly possible using conventional passive MR detectors. Here, we demonstrate the utility of a wireless NMR maser detector, the quality factor of which was enhanced 22‐fold (to 1,670) via parametric pumping. This active‐feedback technique breaks the intrinsic fundamental limit of NMR detector circuit quality factor. We show the use of parametric pumping to reduce the threshold requirement for inducing nuclear spin masing at 300 MHz resonance frequency in a preclinical MRI scanner. Indeed, stimulated emission from hyperpolarized protons was obtained under highly unfavorable conditions of low magnetic field homogeneity (T2* of 3 ms). Greater gains of the quality factor of the MR detector (up to 1 million) were also demonstrated.
Interpretation of chest fluoroscopy: the risk of misdiagnosing atelectasis as pneumothorax due to greyscale inversion
Authors: Lin C. Y. , Cavanaugh N. B. , Subramani S. , Singhal A. K. , Hanada S.
Published: June 2024

Anaesthetists may be required to work in hybrid theatres for procedures using fluoroscopic imaging. Adequate knowledge of fluoroscopic images allows prompt and effective emergency management of complications which arise during procedures. Here, we present a case of severe hypotension and hypoxia occurring shortly after induction of anaesthesia. Atelectasis was mistaken for a pneumothorax due to misinterpretation of fluoroscopic imaging, which demonstrated a dark pleural cavity peripheral to a partially collapsed left lung, leading to an incorrect diagnosis. This case highlights the importance of understanding greyscale inversion in fluoroscopy.
A Phosphorescent P/N/S Hybrid Ligand Stabilized Au2Cu Complex Selectively Senses Ammonia and Amines
Authors: Liu Fuyuan , Yang Ningwen , Chang Yijia , Yang Wei , Young David James , Li Hong‐Xi , Lu Chengrong , Ren Zhi‐Gang
Published: June 2024

Reaction of a P/N/S hybrid ligand dpppyatc (N,N‐bis((diphenylphosphaneyl)methyl)‐N‐(pyridin‐2‐yl)‐amino‐thiocarbamide) with Au(tht)Cl (tht=tetrahydrothiophene) and [Cu(MeCN)4]BF4 afforded cluster complex [Au2Cu(dpppyatc)2](BF4)2Cl (1). Upon excitation at 480 nm, 1 emitted orange phosphorescence at 646 nm, which was red‐shifted to ~698 nm selectively in the presence of ammonia or amine vapor. This chromic photoluminescent response toward ammonia was sensitive and reversible. Complex1 could detect ammonia in aqueous solution down to concentrations of 2 ppm (w/w).
Heterogeneous brain distribution of bumetanide following systemic administration in rats
Authors: Löscher Wolfgang , Gramer Martina , Römermann Kerstin
Published: June 2024

Bumetanide is used widely as a tool and off‐label treatment to inhibit the Na‐K‐2Cl cotransporter NKCC1 in the brain and thereby to normalize intra‐neuronal chloride levels in several brain disorders. However, following systemic administration, bumetanide only poorly penetrates into the brain parenchyma and does not reach levels sufficient to inhibit NKCC1. The low brain penetration is a consequence of both the high ionization rate and plasma protein binding, which restrict brain entry by passive diffusion, and of brain efflux transport. In previous studies, bumetanide was determined in the whole brain or a few brain regions, such as the hippocampus. However, the blood–brain barrier and its efflux transporters are heterogeneous across brain regions, so it cannot be excluded that bumetanide reaches sufficiently high brain levels for NKCC1 inhibition in some discrete brain areas. Here, bumetanide was determined in 14 brain regions following i.v. administration of 10 mg/kg in rats. Because bumetanide is much more rapidly eliminated by rats than humans, its metabolism was reduced by pretreatment with piperonyl butoxide. Significant, up to 5‐fold differences in regional bumetanide levels were determined with the highest levels in the midbrain and olfactory bulb and the lowest levels in the striatum and amygdala. Brain:plasma ratios ranged between 0.004 (amygdala) and 0.022 (olfactory bulb). Regional brain levels were significantly correlated with local cerebral blood flow. However, regional bumetanide levels were far below the IC50 (2.4 μM) determined previously for rat NKCC1. Thus, these data further substantiate that the reported effects of bumetanide in rodent models of brain disorders are not related to NKCC1 inhibition in the brain.
Disposable electrochemical biosensors for the detection of bacteria in the light of antimicrobial resistance
Authors: C. S. Sreelakshmi , Kini Vrinda , Singh Maargavi , Mukhopadhyay Chiranjay , Nag Pooja , Sadani Kapil
Published: June 2024

Persistent and inappropriate use of antibiotics is causing rife antimicrobial resistance (AMR) worldwide. Common bacterial infections are thus becoming increasingly difficult to treat without the use of last resort antibiotics. This has necessitated a situation where it is imperative to confirm the infection to be bacterial, before treating it with antimicrobial speculatively. Conventional methods of bacteria detection are either culture based which take anywhere between 24 and 96 hor require sophisticated molecular analysis equipment with libraries and trained operators. These are difficult propositions for resource limited community healthcare setups of developing or less developed countries. Customized, inexpensive, point‐of‐care (PoC) biosensors are thus being researched and developed for rapid detection of bacterial pathogens. The development and optimization of disposable sensor substrates is the first and crucial step in development of such PoC systems. The substrates should facilitate easy charge transfer, a high surface to volume ratio, be tailorable by the various bio‐conjugation chemistries, preserve the integrity of the biorecognition element, yet be inexpensive. Such sensor substrates thus need to be thoroughly investigated. Further, if such systems were made disposable, they would attain immunity to biofouling. This article discusses a few potential disposable electrochemical sensor substrates deployed for detection of bacteria for environmental and healthcare applications. The technologies have significant potential in helping reduce bacterial infections and checking AMR. This could help save lives of people succumbing to bacterial infections, as well as improve the overall quality of lives of people in low‐ and middle‐income countries.
Periostin regulates lysyl oxidase through ERK1/2 MAPK‐dependent serum response factor in activated cardiac fibroblasts
Authors: Radhakrishnan Sruthi , Shenoy Sachin J. , Devidasan Indraja , Shaji Binchu V. , Gopal Sarayu , Sreekumaran Sreekanth , SP Abhilash , Sivaraman Divya M. , Mohan Neethu
Published: June 2024

Collagen crosslinking, mediated by lysyl oxidase, is an adaptive mechanism of the cardiac repair process initiated by cardiac fibroblasts postmyocardial injury. However, excessive crosslinking leads to cardiac wall stiffening, which impairs the contractile properties of the left ventricle and leads to heart failure. In this study, we investigated the role of periostin, a matricellular protein, in the regulation of lysyl oxidase in cardiac fibroblasts in response to angiotensin II and TGFβ1. Our results indicated that periostin silencing abolished the angiotensin II and TGFβ1‐mediated upregulation of lysyl oxidase. Furthermore, the attenuation of periostin expression resulted in a notable reduction in the activity of lysyl oxidase. Downstream of periostin, ERK1/2 MAPK signaling was found to be activated, which in turn transcriptionally upregulates the serum response factor to facilitate the enhanced expression of lysyl oxidase. The periostin‐lysyl oxidase association was also positively correlated in an in vivo rat model of myocardial infarction. The expression of periostin and lysyl oxidase was upregulated in the collagen‐rich fibrotic scar tissue of the left ventricle. Remarkably, echocardiography data showed a reduction in the left ventricular wall movement, ejection fraction, and fractional shortening, indicative of enhanced stiffening of the cardiac wall. These findings shed light on the mechanistic role of periostin in the collagen crosslinking initiated by activated cardiac fibroblasts. Our findings signify periostin as a possible therapeutic target to reduce excessive collagen crosslinking that contributes to the structural remodeling associated with heart failure.
Collaboration to support veterans: An ongoing project in the Pikes Peak region
Authors: Zimbleman Dana , McMahon Sarah
Published: June 2024

This article describes the collaborative efforts at Pikes Peak State College to support veterans within the institution and community. In partnership with PPSC's Military and Veterans Program and with assistance from professional colleagues inside and outside the institution, two English faculty spearheaded efforts to organize events and create a military arts publication they hope to turn into a national journal that accepts submissions from across the country. In keeping with military strategies encouraging teamwork and adaptation, they have built a framework for ongoing military and veteran outreach in the Pikes Peak region.
Global sensitivity analysis with multifidelity Monte Carlo and polynomial chaos expansion for vascular haemodynamics
Authors: Schäfer Friederike , Schiavazzi Daniele E. , Hellevik Leif Rune , Sturdy Jacob
Published: June 2024

Computational models of the cardiovascular system are increasingly used for the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of cardiovascular disease. Before being used for translational applications, the predictive abilities of these models need to be thoroughly demonstrated through verification, validation, and uncertainty quantification. When results depend on multiple uncertain inputs, sensitivity analysis is typically the first step required to separate relevant from unimportant inputs, and is key to determine an initial reduction on the problem dimensionality that will significantly affect the cost of all downstream analysis tasks. For computationally expensive models with numerous uncertain inputs, sample‐based sensitivity analysis may become impractical due to the substantial number of model evaluations it typically necessitates. To overcome this limitation, we consider recently proposed Multifidelity Monte Carlo estimators for Sobol’ sensitivity indices, and demonstrate their applicability to an idealized model of the common carotid artery. Variance reduction is achieved combining a small number of three‐dimensional fluid–structure interaction simulations with affordable one‐ and zero‐dimensional reduced‐order models. These multifidelity Monte Carlo estimators are compared with traditional Monte Carlo and polynomial chaos expansion estimates. Specifically, we show consistent sensitivity ranks for both bi‐ (1D/0D) and tri‐fidelity (3D/1D/0D) estimators, and superior variance reduction compared to traditional single‐fidelity Monte Carlo estimators for the same computational budget. As the computational burden of Monte Carlo estimators for Sobol’ indices is significantly affected by the problem dimensionality, polynomial chaos expansion is found to have lower computational cost for idealized models with smooth stochastic response.
A Sustainable and Cost‐Effective Nitrogen‐Doped Three‐Dimensional Porous Carbon for High‐Performance Lithium‐Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Ma Shuang , Liu Xuecheng , Chen Tiezhu , Wang Yan , Wang Minsheng , Jiang Fengyi , Zhou Xia , Gu Xingxing
Published: June 2024

Affordable clean energy is one of the major sustainable development goals that can transform our world. At present, researchers are working to develop cheap electrode materials to develop energy storage devices, the Lithium‐sulfur (Li−S) battery is considered a promising energy storage device owing to its excellent theoretical specific capacity and energy density. Herein, utilizing the ramie degumming waste liquid as raw materials, after freeze‐drying and high‐temperature calcination, a sustainable and cost‐effective three‐dimensional (3D) porous nitrogen‐doped ramie carbon (N‐RC) was synthesized. The N‐RC calcined at 800 °C (N‐RC‐800) shows a superior high specific surface area of 1491.85 m2 ⋅ g−1 and a notable high pore volume of 0.90 cm3 ⋅ g−1. When employed as a sulfur host, the S@N‐RC‐800 cathode illustrates excellent initial discharge capacity (1120.6 mAh ⋅ g−1) and maintains a reversible capacity of 625.4 mAh ⋅ g−1 after 500 cycles at 1 C. Simultaneously, the S@N‐RC‐800 cathode also shows excellent coulombic efficiency and ideal rate performance. Such exceptional electrochemical performance of S@N‐RC‐800 can be primarily attributable to N‐RC's high specific surface area, high porosity, and abundant polar functional groups. This green and low‐cost synthesis strategy offers a new avenue for harnessing the potential of waste biomass in the context of clean energy storage.
WiPFIM: A digital platform for interlinking biocollections of wild plants, fruits, associated insects, and their molecular barcodes
Authors: Onyango Bonface , Copeland Robert , Mbogholi John , Wamalwa Mark , Kibet Caleb , Tonnang Henri E. Z. , Senagi Kennedy
Published: June 2024

The current knowledge on insects feeding on fruits is limited, and some of the scarce existing data on the fruit‐associated insects are secluded within the host institutions. Consequently, their value is not fully realized. Moreover, in countries like Kenya, the integration of biocollections data within a digital framework has not been fully exploited. To address these gaps, this article presents a description of the development of a web‐based platform for data sharing and integrating biodiversity historical data of wild plants, fruits, associated insects, and their molecular barcodes (WiPFIM) while leveraging data science technologies. The barcodes corresponding to the biocollections data were retrieved from BOLD database. The platform is an online resource about fruit–insect interactions that can be of interest to a worldwide community of users and can be useful in building innovative tools. The platform is accessible online at https://test‐dmmg.icipe.org/wpfhi.
Cyclo‐Bis(Acyl)phosphine Oxides as Efficient Photoinitiators for Radical Polymerization
Authors: Peng Zhaoxia , Shen Qi , Chen Xiaodan
Published: June 2024

Acyclic acylphosphine oxides have been extensively utilized in industrial applications as typical photoinitiators (PIs). In this study, we demonstrate the efficiency of their cyclic analogues, cyclo‐bis(acyl)phosphine oxides (CBAPOs), as efficient PIs. We present the isolation and X‐ray crystallographic characterization of CBAPOs. These compounds exhibit a long maximum absorption wavelength ranging between 415 and 420 nm, extending well into the near 500 nm region. Radical trapping experiments suggest that CBAPOs undergo homolytic P−C(O) bond α‐cleavage. Steady‐state photolysis conducted with LED light at 390 nm, monitored by UV‐Vis spectroscopy, confirms the gradual decay of CBAPOs over time. Additionally, all CBAPOs are capable of initiating radical polymerization under irradiation at 365 nm. Notably, one of the CBAPOs (4a) demonstrates comparable photoinitiating efficiency to one of commercially available bis(acyl)phosphine oxides (Irgacure 819).
Epilepsy, EEG and chromosomal rearrangements
Authors: Paprocka Justyna , Coppola Antonietta , Cuccurullo Claudia , Stawicka Elżbieta , Striano Pasquale
Published: June 2024

Chromosomal abnormalities are associated with a broad spectrum of clinical manifestations, one of the more commonly observed of which is epilepsy. The frequency, severity, and type of epileptic seizures vary according to the macro‐ and microrearrangements present. Even within a single chromosomal anomaly, we most often deal with a phenotypic spectrum. The aim of the study was to look for chromosomal rearrangements with a characteristic electroencephalographic pattern. Only a few disorders have peculiar electroclinical abnormalities: 1p36, 4p16, 6q terminal or trisomy 12p, Angelman syndrome, inv dup 15, 15q13.3 deletions, ring 20, Down syndrome, or Xp11.22–11.23 duplication. We also reviewed studies on epileptic seizures and typical electroencephalographic patterns described in certain chromosomal rearrangements, focusing on the quest for potential electroclinical biomarkers. The comprehensive review concludes with clinical presentations of the most common micro and macro chromosomal rearrangements, such as 17q21.31 microdeletion, 6q terminal deletion, 15q inv dup syndrome, 2q24.4 deletion, Xp11.22–11.23 duplication, 15q13.3 microdeletion, 1p36 terminal deletion, 5q14.3 microdeletion, and Xq28 duplication. The papers reviewed did not identify any specific interictal electroencephalographic patterns that were unique and significant biomarkers for a given chromosomal microrearrangement. The types of seizures described varied, with both generalized and focal seizures of various morphologies being reported. Patients with chromosomal anomalies may also meet the criteria for specific epileptic syndromes such as Infantile Epilepsy Spasms Syndrome (IESS, West syndrome): 16p13.11, 15q13.3 and 17q21.31 microdeletions, 5q inv dup. syndrome; Dravet syndrome (2q24.4 deletion), Lennox–Gastaut syndrome (15q11 duplication. 1q13.3, 5q inv dup.); or Self‐Limited Epilepsy with Autonomic Features (SeLEAS, Panayiotopoulos syndrome: terminal deletion of 6q.n), Self‐Limited Epilepsy with Centrotemporal Spikes (SeLECT): fragile X syndrome. It is essential to better characterize groups of patients to more accurately define patterns of epilepsy and EEG abnormalities. This could lead to new treatment strategies. Future research is required to better understand epileptic syndromes and chromosomal rearrangements.

Plain Language Summary

This paper presents EEG recording abnormalities in patients with various gene abnormalities that can cause epilepsy. The authors summarize these EEG variations based on a literature review to see if they occur frequently enough in other chromosomal abnormalities (in addition to those already known) to be a clue for further diagnosis.
Attachment and body representations in adolescents with personality disorder
Authors: Buhl‐Nielsen Bernadette , Steele Howard , Steele Miriam
Published: June 2024

Background

Attachment theory has served as an influential framework for understanding psychopathology, partly due to reliable assessment methodology. The influence of insecure attachment on attitudes toward the body and the impact this might have for the development of psychopathology is however less well elucidated.

Method

A total of 123 adolescents (35 with borderline personality disorder or BPD, 25 with other personality disorders [OPD] and 63 comprising a normative control group) were interviewed with the Adult Attachment Interview (AAI) and the Mirror Interview (MI). The MI questions respondents about how they feel about their bodies, as they look in the mirror.

Results

The AAIs from the Borderline group were predominantly insecure‐preoccupied and unresolved. These adolescents had significantly lower levels of a positive and integrated sense of self and body than the other groups. Regression results revealed a high loving relationship with fathers, low involving anger with father, high coherence of mind, slight derogation of mother & low levels of unresolved loss uniquely and additively predicted 55% of variance in the summary score assigned to MI responses, that is, the summary score for a Positive and Integrated Body Representation (PIBR).

Conclusion

Unfavorable attachment experiences and current states of mind regarding attachment may give rise to problems with establishing PIBRs, and thus play a role in the development of psychopathology, especially BPD.
Conversion surgery for initially unresectable locally advanced biliary tract cancer: A multicenter collaborative study conducted in Japan and Korea
Authors: Yabushita Yasuhiro , Park Joon Seong , Yoon Yoo‐Seok , Ohtsuka Masayuki , Kwon Wooil , Choi Gi Hong , Imamura Masafumi , Matsumoto Ippei , Mizuno Shugo , Matsuyama Ryusei , Sakata Jun , Hayashi Hiromitsu , Takeda Yutaka , Katagiri Satoshi , Sugawara Toshitaka , Kobayashi Shogo , Kawasaki Yota , Nagano Hiroaki , Murase Katsutoshi , Kim Hyung Sun , Nah Yang Won , Jang Jin‐Young , Yamaue Hiroki , Yoon Dong Sup , Yamamoto Masakazu , Choi Dongho , Nakamura Masafumi , Kim Ki‐Hun , Endo Itaru
Published: June 2024

Background

Although surgical resection is the only curative treatment for biliary tract cancer, in some cases, the disease is diagnosed as unresectable at initial presentation. There are few reports of conversion surgery after the initial treatment for unresectable locally advanced biliary tract cancer. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of conversion surgery in patients with initially unresectable locally advanced biliary tract cancer.

Methods

We retrospectively collected clinical data from groups of patients in multiple centers belonging to the Japanese Society of Hepato‐Biliary‐Pancreatic Surgery and Korean Association of Hepato‐Biliary‐Pancreatic Surgery. We analyzed two groups of prognostic factors (pretreatment and surgical factors) and their relation to the treatment outcomes.

Results

A total of 56 patients with initially unresectable locally advanced biliary tract cancer were enrolled in this study of which 55 (98.2%) patients received chemotherapy, and 16 (28.6%) patients received additional radiation therapy. The median time from the start of the initial treatment to resection was 6.4 months. Severe postoperative complications of Clavien‐Dindo grade III or higher occurred in 34 patients (60.7%), and postoperative mortality occurred in five patients (8.9%). Postoperative histological results revealed CR in eight patients (14.3%). The median survival time from the start of the initial treatment in all 56 patients who underwent conversion surgery was 37.7 months, the 3‐year survival rate was 53.9%, and the 5‐year survival rate was 39.1%.

Conclusions

Conversion surgery for initially unresectable locally advanced biliary tract cancer may lead to longer survival in selected patients. However, more precise preoperative safety evaluation and careful postoperative management are required.
Impact of spouses' access to financial services on technological and managerial gaps in rice production
Authors: Malabayabas Maria Luz L. , Mishra Ashok K. , Mayorga Joaquin
Published: June 2024

The study investigates the effect of the spouse's access to financial services via self‐help groups (SHGs) on technical efficiency, technology and managerial gaps. We use farm‐level data from rice farming households in eastern India, propensity score matching method and selectivity‐corrected stochastic production frontier model. Results show that farms with access to financial services via a spouse's membership in SHGs have slightly higher technical efficiency than their counterparts. Technology and managerial gaps are higher for farms where spouses have access to financial services via SHGs than their counterparts. With access to financial services via spouses, rice farmers reallocated family labour and hired more labour for crop establishment. Thus, women joining SHGs can increase crop productivity, and extension agents should also focus on spouses and their role in farming decision‐making, not just financial management.
Six‐decade trend in minute‐scale short‐duration intense precipitation in Beijing and its association with urbanization
Authors: Wang Lingli , Ren Guoyu , Zhan Yunjian
Published: June 2024

Understanding the characteristics of minute‐scale short‐duration intense rainfall and its possible link with urbanization is valuable for addressing urban climate change and evaluating biases in high‐resolution historical precipitation data series. This study analyses the long‐term trends of rainy‐season minute‐scale intense rainfall events at different continuous time periods based on precipitation data from 20 national meteorological stations in the Beijing area covering the period from 1961 to 2021. This study shows that during the whole period analysed, the number of events of intense rainfall lasting 15 min or longer decreased, while the number of shorter‐duration events and the accumulated precipitation increased. The frequency and amount of minute‐scale intense rainfall recorded by urban stations are generally higher than those recorded by rural stations in terms of climatological means. The signal of the urbanization effect in minute‐scale precipitation changes is detectable, with the contribution of urbanization to the trends in average precipitation of 30‐min intense rainfall being 68.8%, whereas the contributions with respect to the frequency of 20‐ and 30‐min intense rainfall and the maximum precipitation of intense rainfall with a duration of 45 min reach 100%. The results of the analysis can provide reference for understanding long‐term changes in short‐duration rainfall and the possibility that they are driven by local anthropogenic activity, as well as bias in the minute‐scale precipitation data series of urban observation sites when they are used in studies of large‐scale intense precipitation changes.
Administration of 4% tetrasodium EDTA lock solution and central venous catheter complications in high‐risk pediatric patients with intestinal failure: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Hirsch Thomas I. , Fligor Scott C. , Tsikis Savas T. , Mitchell Paul D. , DeVietro Angela , Carbeau Sarah , Wang Sarah Z. , McClelland Jennifer , Carey Alexandra N. , Gura Kathleen M. , Puder Mark
Published: June 2024

Background

Selection of central venous catheter (CVC) lock solution impacts catheter mechanical complications and central line–associated bloodstream infections (CLABSIs) in pediatric patients with intestinal failure. Disadvantages of the current clinical standards, heparin and ethanol lock therapy (ELT), led to the discovery of new lock solutions. High‐risk pediatric patients with intestinal failure who lost access to ELT during a recent shortage were offered enrollment in a compassionate use trial with 4% tetrasodium EDTA (T‐EDTA), a lock solution with antimicrobial, antibiofilm, and antithrombotic properties.

Methods

We performed a descriptive cohort study including 14 high‐risk pediatric patients with intestinal failure receiving 4% T‐EDTA as a daily catheter lock solution. CVC complications were documented (repairs, occlusions, replacements, and CLABSIs). Complication rates on 4% T‐EDTA were compared with baseline rates, during which patients were receiving either heparin or ELT (designated as heparin/ELT).

Results

Patients initiated 4% T‐EDTA at the time they were enrolled in the compassionate use protocol. Use of 4% T‐EDTA resulted in a 50% reduction in CVC complications, compared with baseline rates on heparin/ELT (incidence rate ratio: 0.50; 95% CI, 0.25–1.004; P = 0.051).

Conclusion

In a compassionate use protocol for high‐risk pediatric patients with intestinal failure, the use of 4% T‐EDTA reduced composite catheter complications, including those leading to emergency department visits, hospital admissions, additional procedures, and mortality. This outcome suggests 4% T‐EDTA has benefits over currently available lock solutions.