bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Recent Advances in Multicomponent Organic Composite Thermoelectric Materials
Authors: Bao Yuanrong , Sun Yajing , Jiao Fei , Hu Wenping
Published: March 2023

Organic thermoelectric materials have the potential to be used as power supplies for wearable electronics, implantable medical devices, and sensors in Internet of Things. The past 10 years has witnessed the rapid development of the research on organic thermoelectric materials, different material systems and optimizing strategies are developed, and the ZT values of some organic materials have approached that of many inorganic thermoelectric material systems in the low‐temperature region. Among different material systems, organic composite materials, especially multicomponent organic composite materials show very promising thermoelectric properties and offer more tunability compared to single component thermoelectric materials. Multicomponent organic composite thermoelectric materials can not only further improve the ZT values, but also have unique advantages of combining the merits of different materials, thus rendering the composites with better processing, mechanical, or other properties on demand. This review summarizes the concepts, the design criteria, the research progress of organic–inorganic and all‐organic multicomponent thermoelectric materials which contain three or more different ingredients, as well as their applications. Furthermore, the challenges and prospects are also analyzed to provide guidelines for the development of multicomponent organic composite thermoelectric materials.
Dihydropyrimidinones as potent anticancer agents: Insight into the structure–activity relationship
Authors: Prasad Tanya , Mahapatra Aastha , Sharma Tripti , Sahoo Chita R. , Padhy Rabindra Nath
Published: March 2023

Cancer is a serious disease that has been around for a long time but currently has no sustainable solution. Several medications currently available offer an opportunity for the manifestation of cancer treatment; however, the “search for better” has led to the development and study of a variety of new scaffolds. Dihydropyrimidinones (DHPMs) are a privileged scaffold, prominent for their versatile range of biological activities. In recent years, the anticancer potential of these unsaturated pyrimidine ring systems has been traversed, along with their synthesis methods and the interlinked mechanisms leading to the anticancer activity. This review summarizes the structure–activity relationship of DHPMs as potential anticancer agents. This study is a short review of their synthesis, mechanism of action, and structure–activity relationships (SARs) that are answerable for the anticancer activity of DHPMs and have been thoroughly researched and assessed.
Recent advances, perspectives and challenges on levulinic acid production from residual biomass
Authors: Bazoti Suzana F. , Bonatto Charline , Scapini Thamarys , Camargo Aline Frumi , Treichel Helen , de Oliveira Débora
Published: March 2023

Over the years, several studies have focused on integrally exploring lignocellulosic biomass to achieve satisfactory yields of different bioproducts and establish economically viable industrial processes. Among the bioproducts, levulinic acid (LA) has emerged as one of the top platform products derived from biomass, mainly owing to its expanding market economic position, which can stimulate viability and attract the attention of investors in the field. Considered a building block because of its versatile intermediate chemical structure, it can be used to synthesize many compounds with applications in fuels, pharmaceutical and cosmetics industries, food additives and solvents. The main synthesis route for obtaining LA is the degradation of cellulose via acid catalysis. In this context, lignocellulosic biomass is a promising and sustainable way of getting LA. Recent research has explored a potential path to full technological development associated with LA from various biomass and different catalysts. In this scenario, a comprehensive review concerning biomass for LA production and the challenges in the synthesis process is proposed. The primary studies conducted over the years and approaches to using and appreciating residual biomass are also discussed. This work also considers the use of technological tools to optimize the production of LA and seeks to contribute sustainable proposals still little explored, such as the intensification of the process and the use of fruit residues in the synthesis of this promising building block. © 2023 Society of Industrial Chemistry and John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
A grounded theory of improvisation in therapy: Lessons from decoloniality
Authors: Blunden Nicola
Published: March 2023

Grounded theory (GT) is a popular research methodology that has been used in various fields and disciplines. Its researchers face the paradox of their method being grounded in both data and theory, potentially resulting in researcher ambivalence towards existing knowledge and constructing “thin” or “descriptive” theory as a result. In this reflective paper, the researcher uses a case example of theorising the category “improvisation,” to explore the deliberate decolonial use of literature in GT. They share detailed examples of inductive coding, analytic memoing and abduction of the category. They describe a paradigm‐changing moment of realisation when they discovered their own colonial thinking towards this category and the subsequent perspective change that occurred when they attempted to “de‐link” from their colonial thinking and apply a decolonialised lens to their category. The work of Black and Indigenous authors enabled the researcher to theorise “improvisation” as a valid, transdisciplinary practice that lies at the heart of both therapy and art making. The researcher concludes that researchers intending to decolonialise their knowledge production should take a critical‐reflexive stance towards existing theory, deliberately seeking out alternate, decolonial ways of knowing, in order to construct more vital, convivial and emancipatory theories. They also offer a decolonial reimagining of therapy as a grounded, responsive, intentional and social improvisational practice, which is co‐created between client and therapist.
Nonthermal Plasma‐Assisted CO2‐H2O Conversion over NiO and Co3O4 Supported on CeO2
Authors: Bajpai Abhinav , Kumar Sushant
Published: March 2023

Transformation of CO2 into value‐added chemicals remains a key challenge. Herein, nonthermal plasma (NTP)‐activated CO2‐H2O conversion over BaTiO3‐mixed NiO/CeO2 (Ni/Ce+) and Co3O4/CeO2 (Co/Ce+) catalysts is demonstrated. In a continuous‐flow dielectric barrier discharge reactor and under ambient conditions, optimum Co/Ce+ showed formation rates of CO and O2 of (43.6 ± 3.1) and (20.8 ± 0.7) μmol g−1h−1, respectively. CO2 conversion was found to be dependent on a combination of the basicity of the catalyst surface, CO2 flow rate, plasma input power, and relative humidity. Subsequently, kinetic analysis suggested that the activation energies over Ni/Ce+, Co/Ce+, and NiCo/Ce+ are 35.68, 15.61, and 25.88 kJ mol−1, respectively. By combining these findings, a plausible reaction mechanism that can facilitate understanding the trend of product formation is also provided.
The modeling of multicancer early detection (MCED) tests’ residual risk and the challenges of MCED evaluation and implementation
Authors: Kessler Larry , Le Beau Michelle M. , Smith Robert A. , Walter Fiona M. , Wender Richard
Published: March 2023

Multicancer early detection (MCED) tests represent a potentially game‐changing early cancer detection technology. Modeling efforts, such as those of Hudnut et al. in this issue of Cancer, as well as systematic clinical studies and data collection, along with public health and primary care efforts, need to be undertaken to determine whether MCED tests become an opportunity to decrease the heavy burden of cancer for all.
Dosing Recommendation Based on the Effects of Different Meal Types on Pexidartinib Pharmacokinetics in Healthy Subjects: Implementation of Model‐informed Drug Development Strategy
Authors: Zahir Hamim , Yin Ophelia , Hsu Ching , Wagner Andrew J. , Jiang Jason , Wang Xiaoning , Greenberg Jon , Shuster Dale E. , Kakkar Tarundeep , LaCreta Frank
Published: March 2023

Pexidartinib, an oral small molecule inhibitor of the colony‐stimulating factor 1 receptor, is approved for treatment of adults with symptomatic tenosynovial giant cell tumor associated with severe morbidity or functional limitations and not amenable to improvement with surgery. The original dosing regimen is 400 mg of pexidartinib (2 × 200‐mg capsules) twice daily, administered on an empty stomach at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal or snack. Because pexidartinib is likely to be taken over an extended period of time, the ability to take pexidartinib with a meal would simplify timing of administration and potentially improve compliance. Since administering 400 mg of pexidartinib with a low‐fat meal increases exposure by ≈60% relative to the fasted state, administering 250 mg of pexidartinib with a low‐fat meal (low‐fat meal dosing regimen) was predicted to achieve an exposure similar to 400 mg administered during a fasted state (original dosing regimen). Based on clinical trial simulations with two one‐sided t‐tests and bootstrapping (ie, resampling) analyses, a bioequivalence study (n = 24) would have >90% power to conclude that the original dosing regimen (400 mg fasted twice daily) and the low‐fat meal dosing regimen (250 mg with a low‐fat meal twice daily) are bioequivalent. This report provides the outcome of the implementation of the model‐informed drug development strategy to recommend and justify a low‐fat meal dosing regimen for pexidartinib that has the potential to improve patient compliance while maintaining drug exposure.
Crystal Structure of Gd(Ca3.319Sr0.681)O[BO3]3 and Gd(Ca2.592Sr1.408)O[BO3]3
Authors: Weigel Tina , Mehner Erik , Stöcker Hartmut , Meyer Dirk C. , Götze Jens , Hanzig Juliane
Published: March 2023

The structure family of the rare‐earth calcium oxoborates O[BO3]3 (RCOB) has been investigated mainly with regard to their optical characteristics. Due to their monoclinic‐domatic structure they exhibit pyro‐ and piezoelectric properties, which is not dependent on the numerous possible substitutions of the rare‐earth cation site R. The rare‐earth cations are known to show partial disorder with the earth alkaline cation positions X and Z. To study whether a stabilization of the cation occupation is possible without disorder, calcium oxoborates are chemically modified using the Ca substitutes, Sr, Na, Y, Gd on the X and Z positions. No oxoborate phases can be synthesized by coupled substitution of Ca with Sr, Na, and a rare‐earth element. Only with single substitution of Sr the oxoborate phases can be synthesized. It is found that up to 35% Sr can be incorporated into the structure. From the synthesized Gd(CaSrx)O[BO3]3 precursor material, single crystals have been grown and used for the refinement of the first structure model. The structures have been refined in space group . A replacing only of Ca with Sr, mainly on the X position, has been observed. The stoichiometry resulting from the refinement is Gd(Ca3.319Sr0.681)O[BO3]3 and Gd(Ca2.592Sr1.408)O[BO3]3.
A 7.6–12.3 GHz wide‐band PLL with an ultra low reference spur −81.1 dBc in 0.13 μm CMOS technology
Authors: Li Jinwei , Sun Bing , Huang Jiawei , Chang Hudong , Jia Rui , Liu Honggang
Published: March 2023

This paper presents a wide‐band charge‐pump phase‐locked loop (CPPLL) with reference spur reduction techniques. To broaden the frequency range without deteriorating phase noise, a 6‐bit capacitor array‐based VCO and an automatic frequency calibrator (AFC) are used. A compact loop filter technique saves the capacitor area and maintains the bandwidth. Also, a novel charge pump with dynamic current matching circuit is proposed to reduce the reference spur of the PLL. The current mismatch is less than 0.22 
A (0.16%) over the voltage range from 0.75 to 1.55 V. Fabricated in 0.13 
m CMOS technology, the proposed PLL achieves a locking range of 7.6–12.3 GHz (47.2%), with a 25 MHz frequency interval. The PLL consumes 23.3 mA from a 2.5 V supply voltage and occupies a core area of 0.92 mm 
 0.72 mm. The reference spur of the proposed PLL is measured to be −81.1 dBc, and in‐band phase noise reaches −110.8 dBc/Hz at 1 MHz offset frequency from the 9.5 GHz carrier frequency.
Genetic algorithm‐based partial charging schedule of rechargeable sensor networks
Authors: Dudyala Anil Kumar , Dash Dinesh
Published: March 2023

The use of rechargeable sensors is a promising solution for wireless sensor networks. On this type of network, mobile charging vehicles (MC) are used for charging sensors using wireless energy transfer (WET) technology. In on‐demand charging, a sensor transmits a charging request to the service station, and the MC visits the sensor to transfer energy. The key disadvantages of utilizing MC‐based WET are its high energy expenditure rate due to mobility, long service time, and slow charging rate. Because of these reasons, sensors deplete their energy and become dead before the MC reaches the requesting nodes to recharge. We have adapted a genetic algorithm‐based partial charging scheme to serve the charging requests. Our objective is to improve the survival ratio of the network. Using comprehensive simulations, we analyze the performance of our proposed method and compare it to two other existing approaches. The simulation results demonstrate that our proposed algorithm improves the survival ratio by up to 20 % by developing a dynamic energy threshold function for transmitting charging requests from the sensors and a partial charging schedule using a genetic algorithm.
Does perceived support moderate the link between acculturative stress and problematic eating behaviors? The role of family, significant other, and friend support
Authors: Wang Peiyi , Garcia Esmeralda R. , Chen Chuansheng , Yim Ilona S.
Published: March 2023

Objective

Acculturative stress, often experienced by members of minority groups, is related to problematic eating behaviors. What remains poorly understood is the function of perceived social support in this link. This study evaluated the moderating role of perceived support from family, the significant other, and friends in the association between acculturative stress and problematic eating behaviors, including emotional eating, uncontrolled eating, and cognitive restraint eating.

Method

An online cross‐sectional study was conducted with 497 Asian and Latinx college students using standardized questionnaires. Three hierarchical multivariable models were analyzed, with each eating behavior included as the outcome variable. Demographic variables (Step 1), general perceived stress (Step 2), and predictor variables (i.e., acculturative stress, perceived support; Step 3) were added using Method Enter. Interaction terms were entered using Method Stepwise (Step 4) to test for moderation effects.

Results

As perceived family support increased, the magnitude of the link between acculturative stress and higher uncontrolled eating increased (p = .002). When perceived significant other support was higher, the magnitude of the relationship between acculturative stress and higher emotional eating increased (p = .02). Higher perceived friend support was directly related to reduced uncontrolled eating (p = .002).

Discussion

This study highlights the heterogeneous effects of various sources of perceived support on the link between acculturative stress and problematic eating behaviors. Findings imply that problematic eating prevention and intervention programs might benefit from considering not only the acculturative stress experienced by racial/ethnic minority young adults but also the sources of support perceived.

Public Significance

Perceived support from family and the significant other increased the magnitude of the link between higher acculturative stress and increased problematic eating behaviors, whereas support from friends showed a direct relationship with reduced uncontrolled eating. The results highlight the nuanced functions of various sources of perceived social support and contribute to a deeper understanding of potential moderators in the relationship between acculturative stress and problematic eating behaviors among racial/ethnic minorities.
Multistage hierarchical capture–recapture models
Authors: Hooten Mevin B. , Schwob Michael R. , Johnson Devin S. , Ivan Jacob S.
Published: March 2023

Ecologists increasingly rely on Bayesian methods to fit capture–recapture models. Capture–recapture models are used to estimate abundance while accounting for imperfect detectability in individual‐level data. A variety of implementations exist for such models, including integrated likelihood, parameter‐expanded data augmentation, and combinations of those. Capture–recapture models with latent random effects can be computationally intensive to fit using conventional Bayesian algorithms. We identify alternative specifications of capture–recapture models by considering a conditional representation of the model structure. The resulting alternative model can be specified in a way that leads to more stable computation and allows us to fit the desired model in stages while leveraging parallel computing resources. Our model specification includes a component for the capture history of detected individuals and another component for the sample size which is random before observed. We demonstrate this approach using three examples including simulation and two datasets resulting from capture–recapture studies of different species.
Seismic performance evaluation of high‐post‐yield stiffness concentrically braced steel frames under mainshock‐consistent‐aftershock sequences
Authors: Hassan Mahmoud , Sipcic Nevena , Vasdravellis George
Published: March 2023

Structures may be subjected to earthquake sequences after major mainshock (MS) events in seismically active sites within a short time. As a result, they may be susceptible to damage accumulation, which may hinder their performance under consecutive seismic loading. This study evaluates the effects of earthquake sequences on the seismic performance of seismic‐resistant concentrically braced steel frames designed to Eurocode‐8. The frames under investigation have concentric chevron‐type braces with replaceable hourglass‐shaped pins made of duplex stainless steel. The seismic energy is dissipated through inelastic deformations concentrated in the pins while keeping the other members elastic. The stainless‐steel pins provide the frame with high‐post‐yield stiffness to reduce the residual drifts after a seismic event. The seismic behaviour of the frame is assessed using site hazard‐specific mainshock‐consistent‐aftershock (MS‐AS) sequences selected for a site in Terni, Central Italy. Nonlinear back‐to‐back dynamic analyses are performed at multiple intensity levels while adopting detailed numerical nonlinear models created in OpenSees. We show that the implemented behaviour factor satisfies the life safety assurance objective while keeping the maximum residual inter‐storey drifts below 1/300 to permit an easy substitution of the damaged pins after the design‐level earthquake without being curtailed by the potential following events. We then develop prediction models for the damage accumulation in the pins, considering different energy‐based intensity measures and we show that the cumulative absolute velocity‐based model is the most efficient predictor in this particular case. Finally, the damage accumulation in the pins is evaluated, confirming their superior low‐cycle fatigue capacity under earthquake sequences.
Upgraded closed‐form soil hydraulic functions from oven dryness to saturation
Authors: Wang Xixi
Published: March 2023

In the past decades, remarkable progresses have been made in developing soil water retention (SWR) functions and relative hydraulic conductivity (kr) models for the full range of matric suction. However, such an existing SWR function and the corresponding kr model were found not to have a consistent prediction performance, that is, for a given soil, the SWR function could perform very well but the kr model might perform poorly or even fail. Given that both water retention and hydraulic conductivity need to be accurately predicted to simulate land‐atmosphere interactions, vadose‐zone soil–water dynamics, and shallow groundwater recharges, this paper proposed an upgraded SWR function and derived a new closed‐form kr model by combining the function with the well‐known Mualem model. The upgradation was done by introducing an exponential function for the pendular (i.e., dry and very dry) range of matric suction. The SWR function and kr model keep the conventional simplicity, reflect the capillary versus adsorptive soil–water mechanisms, eliminate fictitious parameters, and are continuously differentiable with closed forms. The assessment using the experimental data for 35 soils with nine different textures indicated that the upgraded SWR function and new kr model reproduced the data more accurately than the existing functions and models, as measured by visualization plots and four statistics, namely coefficient of determination, sum squared error, root mean squared error, and Nash–Sutcliffe efficiency. The contribution of this paper is to overcome the inconsistent‐performance issue mentioned above.
Advances in intravital imaging of liver immunity using optical microscopy and labeling methods
Authors: Yuan Xuenan , Yu Xiang , Dai Bolei , Zhang Zhihong
Published: March 2023

The use of optical microscopy and labeling methods in intravital imaging allows for direct tracking of cell behavior and dynamic changes at the molecular level in the physiological or pathological microenvironment of living animals, revealing the spatiotemporal information of individual cells in the immune response. The liver is an immunological organ that contains unique innate and adaptive immune cells, including Kupffer cells (KCs) and different types of T cells, and is involved in coordinating multiple immune responses in the body. Using intravital imaging to visualize the movement behaviors and functions of immune cells during the reaction processes of the liver under physiological and pathological conditions has shed new light on the understanding of liver immunity, which is of great significance for the diagnosis and treatment of liver diseases. This review introduces various window models and labeling methods for the liver in intravital optical imaging and describes how it provides movement behavior and functional information about different types of immune cells, such as KCs and T cells, in the liver. Additionally, we highlight recent advances in intravital optical imaging of liver diseases, such as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, infections, and tumors. This review aims to be a useful resource for comprehending the developments and achievements in intravital imaging of the liver and uncovering spatiotemporal information of immune response in a living microenvironment.
“Like a weight off my shoulders”: Participating in peer support from the perspectives of young people experiencing homelessness
Authors: Mollica Meredith , Littman Danielle M. , Lucas Thomas , Marvin Connor , Erangey James , Bender Kimberly , Milligan Tara
Published: March 2023

The aim of this study is to explore how young people experiencing homelessness or housing instability experience participating in peer support from paid peer support specialists with shared lived experiences. The present study used participatory qualitative methods, specifically a photovoice project with young people (N = 8) experiencing homelessness or housing instability, to understand their experiences of being in a relationship with a peer support specialist. This study found that young people experiencing homelessness or housing instability experienced peer relationships as uniquely caring and affirming. Young people described peers as “feeling like a friend” and repeatedly expressed that peer support is “deeper than therapy.” This sort of support stands in contrast to many conventional service approaches, which tend to be driven by organizational agendas and outcomes leading young people to disaffiliate from services. These findings may guide peer support specialists, service providers beginning peer programming, or those considering models for engaging young people experiencing homelessness.
Ni‐based metal organic frameworks: an efficient catalyst for the amidation reaction to obtain N‐(pyridin‐2‐yl)arylamides
Authors: Nguyen Oanh T. K. , Nguyen Vinh Huu , Nong Linh Xuan
Published: March 2023

Background

Amides are the essential building blocks of natural products and bioactive molecules. One of the most common structures discovered in medicinal and bioactive compounds is amide derivatives. The synthesis of N‐(pyridin‐2‐yl)arylamide compounds has recently been assessed using various methods. In particular, there is growing interest in employing heterogeneous catalysts to catalyze organic synthesis reactions. Metal organic frameworks based on nickel centers were synthesized using the solvothermal method. The morphology, size, and catalytic activity of Ni‐based catalysts strongly depend on the substitute solvent composition in the reaction system. The structural features of the Ni‐based materials were verified using modern analytical techniques.

Results

Ni‐based materials were used to catalyze the synthesis of physiologically important N‐(pyridin‐2‐yl)arylamides through an amidation reaction between 2‐aminopyridine and benzaldehyde. Temperature, reaction time, catalyst amount, reactant ratio, and solvent type were investigated as factors that influenced the catalytic activity. The optimal reaction conditions were 10 mol% Ni‐based catalysts, tetrahydrofuran as the reaction solvent, and a reaction temperature of 90 °C for 24 h. N‐(pyridin‐2‐yl)arylamide was obtained in approximately 85% yield. The catalyst could be recovered and reused without significant loss of catalytic activity (79%) after six runs.

Conclusion

This study illustrated that the Ni‐based catalyst performed well in the reaction between 2‐aminopyridine and benzaldehyde formation N‐(pyridin‐2‐yl)arylamide compound with an 85% yield. The solid catalyst was recovered and reused up to six times without any significant change in catalytic activity. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Transcriptomics and metabolomics reveal the changes induced by arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi in Panax quinquefolius L.
Authors: Ran Zhifang , Chen Xiaoli , Li Rui , Duan Wanying , Zhang Yongqing , Fang Lei , Guo Lanping , Zhou Jie
Published: March 2023

Background

Panax quinquefolius L. is one of the most important foods and herbs because of its high nutritional value and medicinal potential. In our previous study we found that the ginsenoside content in P. quinquefolius was improved by arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMFs). However, little research has been conducted on the molecular mechanisms in P. quinquefolius roots induced by AMFs colonization. To identify the metabolomic and transcriptomic mechanisms of P. quinquefolius induced by AMFs, non‐mycorrhized (control) and mycorrhized (AMF) P. quinquefolius were used as experimental materials for comparative analysis of the transcriptome and metabolome.

Results

Compared with the control, 182 metabolites and 545 genes were significantly changed at the metabolic and transcriptional levels in AMFs treatment. The metabolic pattern of AMFs was changed, and the contents of ginsenosides (Rb1, Rg2), threonine, and glutaric acid were significantly increased. There were significant differences in the expression of genes involved in plant hormone signal transduction, glutathione metabolism, and the plant–pathogen interaction pathway. In addition, several transcription factors from the NAC, WRKY, and basic helix–loop–helix families were identified in AMFs versus the control. Furthermore, the combined analysis of ‘transcriptomics–metabolomics’ analysis showed that ‘Plant hormone signal transduction’, ‘Amino sugar and nucleotide sugar metabolism’ and ‘Glutathione metabolism’ pathways were the important enriched pathways in response to AMFs colonization.

Conclusion

Overall, these results provide new insights into P. quinquefolius response to AMFs, which improve our understanding of the molecular mechanisms of P. quinquefolius induced by AMFs. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Humic acid chelated selenium is suitable for wheat biofortification
Authors: Lei Hongliang , Zhou Miaoguo , Li Ban , Fu Yanan , Shi Zhaoyang , Ji Wanquan , Zhang Rui , Wang Zhonghua
Published: March 2023

BACKGROUND

Selenium rich bread is a good carrier of selenium, but the inorganic selenium used in the actual production process is toxic. It is necessary to develop a new green bread production technology. The extraction and utilization of humic acid chelated selenium from selenium‐rich soil is beneficial for reducing resource waste and pollution without destroying the soil ecosystem in selenium‐deficient areas. Sodium selenite and nanoselenium were selected as controls because they are commonly used as selenium agronomic enhancers in production.

RESULTS

Humic acid chelated selenium can be absorbed and accumulated by wheat leaves, and humic acid chelated selenium had no significant effect on wheat yield, which was also shown in the treatments with nanoselenium and sodium selenite. Excessive accumulation of selenium in wheat grains can lead to a deterioration of processing quality. Among them, the use of excessive nanoselenium at the filling stage inhibited the accumulation of wheat grain protein, whereas humic acid chelated selenium is beneficial to grain protein accumulation and has the least negative effect on the processing quality. The accumulation of excessive selenium in wheat seeds had a negative effect on seed germination and growth; specifically, the seed vigor of wheat treated with humic acid chelated selenium was higher than that of untreated wheat.

CONCLUSION

Humic acid chelated selenium is particularly suitable for the whole process of Se‐enriched bread wheat production. The seed vigour of wheat treated with humic acid chelated selenium, which supplied a moderate amount of selenium, was higher than that of untreated wheat. Conversely, the accumulation of excessive selenium in wheat seeds reduced germination and seedling growth. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Cosmetic Filler and PET Positivity: The Risk of a False Positive
Authors: Eitan Dana Naomi , Grunebaum Lisa Danielle , Howard Brittany Emma
Published: March 2023

Objective

To discuss a case of hyaluronic acid filler displaying as PET avid resulting in a false positive for local recurrence and review of the literature of how filler presents on PET.

Study Design

Case report and literature review.

Methods

Retrospective case review of a patient with angiosarcoma with PET‐MRI positivity after hyaluronic acid filler injection. Review of the literature was performed.

Results

A 49‐year‐old female with low grade angiosarcoma of the right cheek pT1N0M0 was treated with wide local excision and staged reconstruction with cervicofacial advancement flap with subsequent adjuvant radiation therapy. Surveillance PET/MRI scans were conducted every 3 months. After one year without recurrence, HA injectable filler was offered to correct resultant right facial soft tissue defect. The patient proceeded with HA filler and was counseled on the risk of local increased SUV on imaging. Her PET/MRI 3 months later revealed postsurgical changes in the right premaxillary soft tissues with associated low‐grade hypermetabolism with max SUV 1.8, which elevated from prior max SUV 0.9. Contralateral left maxillary soft tissues revealed max SUV 0.8. Biopsy was initially favored for concern of local recurrence until the potential for filler to be associated with elevated SUV was discussed. Further evaluation with MRI showed diffusely increased T2 signal with some trace enhancement in the region of PET activity, confirming that findings were consistent with HA filler augmentation per the neuroradiologist team.

Conclusions

Fillers, including hyaluronic acid, are associated with elevated SUV on PET‐CT. Otolaryngologists should be aware of these features to improve patient counseling, avoid unnecessary procedures, and reduce patient anxiety. Laryngoscope, 133:2951–2953, 2023
Surgiflo® hemostatic matrix versus NasoPore® nasal packing following postassium titanyl phosphate laser surgery for hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Pyne Justin M. , Murray Scott , Kelly Brendan C. , Song Jin Soo , Rosvall Brandon R. , Côté David W. J.
Published: March 2023

Background

To help ensure adequate hemostasis immediately following potassium titanyl phosphate (KTP) laser treatment, many centres treating hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia (HHT) routinely use nasal packing post‐operatively. The purpose of this study was to compare hemostatic thrombin matrix with standard packing for postoperative bleeding, patient pain, and comfort.

Methods

A prospective, randomized, double‐blinded, non‐inferiority study was conducted with participants at an HHT centre of excellence (COE) and randomized to the treatment group with reconstituted thrombin gelatin matrix (Surgiflo®) or control group with a biodegradable synthetic polyurethane foam (NasoPore®). Adult subjects with confirmed HHT and moderate to severe epistaxis (a minimum calculated epistaxis severity score [ESS] of 4.0) warranting KTP laser treatment were recruited. Data was collected 2 weeks post operatively by a blinded reviewer completing a visual outcomes evaluation and each patient completing a subjective symptoms questionnaire. Non‐parametric statistical analysis was employed.

Results

Twenty‐eight adult patients were randomized to the treatment and control arms with comparable preoperative epistaxis severity scores. Postoperative nasal bleeding was equivalent. Significantly less pain was found in the treatment arm (p = .005). While there were trends towards less obstruction and increased satisfaction in the treatment group as well as less crusting in the control group, these findings were not statistically significant. Allocation to the treatment group was associated with an approximately $75 higher cost.

Conclusions

When compared to NasoPore® for hemostasis, Surgiflo® hemostatic matrix performed equivalently while causing less discomfort in HHT patients following nasal KTP treatment.

Level of evidence

1b.
Anaerobic duration predicts biogeochemical consequences of oxygen depletion in lakes
Authors: LaBrie Richard , Hupfer Michael , Lau Maximilian P.
Published: March 2023

Lake deoxygenation is of growing concern because it threatens ecosystem services delivery. Complete deoxygenation, anoxia, is projected to prolong and expand in lakes, promoting the production or release of nutrients, greenhouse gases and metals from the water column and sediments. Accumulation of these compounds cannot be easily predicted thus hindering our capacity to forecast the ecological consequences of global changes on aquatic ecosystems. Here, we used monitoring data of four lakes to develop a novel tool, anaerobic duration, to study anaerobic processes in lake waters. Anaerobic duration explained, as a single predictor, 21–60% of the variation for ammonium, phosphorus and a dissolved organic matter fluorophore. Anaerobic duration could be modeled using only two oxygen profiles and lake bathymetry, making it an easily applicable tool to interpret and extrapolate biogeochemical data. This novel tool thus has the potential to transform widely available oxygen profiles into an ecologically meaningful variable.
Electro‐optic modulator based on vanadium dioxide epsilon‐near‐zero nanorods embedded in silicon slot waveguide
Authors: Tanyi Gregory , Lim Christina , Unnithan Ranjith R.
Published: March 2023

We present an electro‐optic modulator exploiting a metamaterial made of an array of vanadium dioxide nanorods operating in epsilon‐near‐zero regime as the active switching material in a silicon waveguide. The modulator takes advantage of the insulator‐to‐metal transition of vanadium dioxide along with near‐zero effective permittivity to achieve a modulation depth of 19.7 dB µm–1 in a footprint of 1.6 µm × 1 µm over a broad range of wavelengths. Using simulations, we demonstrate how the effective permittivity of the metamaterial can be tuned to a near‐zero value by varying the nanorod geometry to increase the modulation depth. The paper further investigates a novel hexagonal array design using the metamaterial nanorods to obtain a lower insertion loss and high modulation depth. The results provide insight into the design of ultra‐compact epsilon‐near‐zero modulators with high operation frequencies and low insertion losses.
Feasibility and validity of using healthcare databases to conduct cross‐national comparative studies of opioid use, its determinants and consequences
Authors: Chen Teng‐Chou , Wettermark Björn , Steinke Douglas , Caughey Gillian E. , Tadrous Mina , Wirtz Veronika J. , Chen Li‐Chia ,   the Global Opioid Utilization Research Collaborative Group
Published: March 2023

Purpose

A cross‐national comparative (CNC) study about opioid utilization would allow the identification of strategies to improve pain management and mitigate risk. However, little is known about the accessibility and validity of information in healthcare databases internationally. This study aimed to identify the feasibility of using healthcare databases to conduct a CNC study of opioid utilization and its associated consequences.

Methods

A cross‐sectional survey was launched in March 2018, including experts interested in CNC studies comparing opioid utilization by purposeful sampling. An electronic survey was used to collect database characteristics, medicine information, and linkage information of each aggregate‐level dataset (AD) and individual patient‐level dataset (IPD).

Results

Overall, participants from 21 geographical regions reported 18 ADs and 19 IPDs. Information on dispensed medications is available from 17 ADs and 17 IPDs. Of the 16 ADs that include primary care settings, only 9 ADs can obtain information from secondary care settings. Fourteen IPDs included patients' characteristics or could be retrieved from linkage databases. Although most ADs are publicly accessible (n = 13), only five IPDs can be accessed without extra cost.

Conclusion

Most ADs could be used to report opioid utilization in a primary care setting. IPDs with linkage databases should be applied to identify potential determinants, clinical outcomes, and policy impact. Data access restrictions and governance policies across jurisdictions can be challenging for timely analysis and require further collaboration.
Identifying a urinary peptidomics profile for hypertension in young adults: The African‐PREDICT study
Authors: De Beer Dalene , Mels Catharina M.C. , Schutte Aletta E. , Delles Christian , Mary Sheon , Mullen William , Latosinska Agnieszka , Mischak Harald , Kruger Ruan
Published: March 2023

Hypertension is one of the most important and complex risk factors for cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). By using urinary peptidomics analyses, we aimed to identify peptides associated with hypertension, building a framework for future research towards improved prediction and prevention of premature development of CVD. We included 78 hypertensive and 79 normotensive participants from the African‐PREDICT study (aged 20–30 years), matched for sex (51% male) and ethnicity (49% black and 51% white). Urinary peptidomics data were acquired using capillary‐electrophoresis‐time‐of‐flight‐mass‐spectrometry. Hypertension‐associated peptides were identified and combined into a support vector machine‐based multidimensional classifier. When comparing the peptide data between the normotensive and hypertensive groups, 129 peptides were nominally differentially abundant (Wilcoxon p < 0.05). Nonetheless, only three peptides, all derived from collagen alpha‐1(III), remained significantly different after rigorous adjustments for multiple comparisons. The 37 most significant peptides (all p ≤ 0.001) served as basis for the development of a classifier, with 20 peptides being combined into a unifying score, resulting in an AUC of 0.85 in the ROC analysis (p < 0.001), with 83% sensitivity at 80% specificity. Our study suggests potential value of urinary peptides in the classification of hypertension, which could enable earlier diagnosis and better understanding of the pathophysiology of hypertension and premature cardiovascular disease development.
The sustainable development goals: How does their implementation affect the financial sustainability of the largest Spanish municipalities
Authors: Benito Bernardino , Guillamón María‐Dolores , Ríos Ana‐María
Published: March 2023

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) present a universal challenge to which all society must be committed. Local governments play a fundamental role as they are closest to citizens, with first‐hand knowledge of their needs and as providers of essential services. Municipal governments are involved in many aspects of SDG implementation. Thus, these governments should work towards their implementation, bearing in mind that involvement in these issues may affect municipal finances. This paper analyses the impact of SDG implementation by local governments on financial sustainability. Our results show that municipalities with better SDG compliance have shorter supplier payment periods and smaller surpluses (or higher deficits). However, better implementation does not affect gross savings or municipal debt per capita.
Enhanced Electrochemical Ethanol Sensitivity on Ni/NiO‐rGO Hybrids Nanostructures at Room Temperature
Authors: Mali Shivsharan M. , Narwade Shankar S. , Mulik Balaji B. , Digraskar Renuka V. , Harale Rajkumar R. , Sathe Bhaskar R.
Published: March 2023

Herein, we depict that the consequential nickel/nickel oxide‐reduced graphene oxide (Ni/NiO‐rGO) hybrid materials synthesized by sol‐gel approach can give as competent electrocatalyst for oxidative determination of ethanol in alkaline condition. Ni/NiO‐rGO based electrochemical sensor shows rapid and highly sensitive linear sweep voltametric (LSV) response to ethanol at an ultra‐low oxidation potential of 0.33 V vs. SCE. Moreover, the electrochemical sensor demonstrates highly stable (current and potential) also with low charge transfer resistance confirmed from chronoamperometic (i‐t) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopic (EIS) data respectively towards ethanol oxidation at Ni/NiO‐rGO hybrid interface confirms its acitivity over individuals i. e. Ni/NiO nanoparticles and rGO. Moreover, linear increase in current density upto 100 μM concentration of ethanol and for the scan rates in the range of 10–100 mV/s with positive shift in potential confirms ethanol oxidation is diffusion controlled process. The selective analysis of electrochemical response for ethanol in benadryl sample with same oxidation potential of ethanol beverages with enhanced ethanol oxidation potential for determination of ethanol concentration into benadryl sample analysis.
Determination of Antioxidant Activities of Viscum album L.: First Report on Interaction of Phenolics with Survivin Protein using in silico Analysis
Authors: Korcan Safiye Elif , Çankaya Nevin , Azarkan Serap Yalcın , Bulduk İbrahim , Karaaslan Emre Can , Kargıoğlu Mustafa , Konuk Muhsin , Güvercin Gencer
Published: March 2023

Mistletoe, Viscum album L., (VA) known as “Ökse Otu” in Turkey, is a hemiparasitic shrub that grows especially on the trunks and crowns of broadleaf trees. This study is aimed to determination of the VA’s antioxidant compounds and evaluate their in vitro activities growing on twelve different host trees and determination of in silico approach of compounds against survivin protein. At the same time, the active ingredients determined in HPLC analysis, were performed with molecular docking and molecular dynamics analysis on survivin protein, an apoptosis inhibitor protein in cancer. Antioxidant activities of methanolic extracts of organs of VA were determined. Phytochemical properties of different organs of VA samples taken from different hosts varied as well. Total phenolic content was determined at the highest rate in fruits, followed by leaves and branches, respectively. Total flavonoid content was determined in the highest amounts in the leaves, followed by branches and fruits, respectively. Antioxidant activity values were evaluated with DPPH (using DPPH as a radical), ABTS (using ABTS as radical cation) and FRP tests. The antioxidant activity of the branches of the plant was determined at the highest rate, followed by leaves and fruits, respectively. During in silico analysis, Quercetin, Rosmarinic acid and Catechin were found to bind to survivin protein effectively. These substances can have the potential to become active pharmaceutical ingredients by working with different proteins in the future.
Ruthenium(III) Chloride as an Efficient Catalyst for the Selective Oxidation of Fatty Alcohols to Aldehydes
Authors: Nunheim Nelly F. , Kaiser Bianca , Thiel Werner R.
Published: March 2023

The oxidation of a series of fatty alcohols to yield the corresponding aldehydes is performed using RuCl3 ⋅ (H2O)x as a homogeneous catalyst and inexpensive trimethylamine N‐oxide (TMAO) as the oxygen source. The reaction conditions were optimized for both high conversion and high selectivity.
Synthesis, Characterization and Structural Studies of Novel Pyrazoline Derivatives as Potential Inhibitors of NAD+ Synthetase in Bacteria and Cytochrome P450 51 in Fungi
Authors: Praveen Kumar Cingatagere Hanumanthappa , Katagi Manjunatha S. , Samuel Johnson , Nandeshwarappa Belakatte P.
Published: March 2023

In the present study, a series of novel 1‐Methyl‐3‐(3‐oxo‐3‐phenylprop‐1‐enyl) quinoline‐2‐(1H)‐ones derivatives(3 a–3 i)were synthesized via condensation, followed by the ring closure to produce pyrazoline derivatives (4 a–4 i). All the newly synthesized pyrazolines derivatives were determined by spectroscopic techniques and were tested for antimicrobial activity by agar well diffusion assay and MIC, from which it was observed that the compounds4 gand4 ishowed substantial antimicrobial activity against bacterial strains. Whereas compound4 iexhibited remarkable antifungal activity. Post this, computational methodologies were employed for studying the pharmacokinetic profiles and assessing the drug likeness of the title compounds. They were subjected to molecular docking analysis and it was observed that the proposed antibacterial compounds4 gand4 ishowed significant binding to the active site of NAD+ synthetase enzyme of the bacteria and the proposed antifungal compound4 ishowed significant binding towards the active site of Cytochrome P450 51 in fungi.
A NIR‐II Fluorescent Probe for Hydrogen Sulfide Detection Based on Blocking Intramolecular Charge Transfer
Authors: Zhao Shuai , Xue Yonggan , Hu Lijuan , Sun Fang , Nie Jun , Chang Yincheng
Published: March 2023

A NIR‐II fluorescent probe (Et‐1080) for H2S detection was fabricated based on the intramolecular charge transfer blocking mechanism. The enhanced electron density of the indole donor further drove the Et‐1080′s absorption and emission to the NIR‐II region with a high molar absorption coefficient and acceptable fluorescence quantum yield. The C=N double bond of electron‐deficient indole can react with H2S rapidly via a nucleophilic addition mechanism, resulting in the destruction of conjugated structure and fluorescence quenching of the Et‐1080 molecule. The probe showed high selectivity and sensitivity to H2S, which could realize the rapid detection of H2S in NIR‐II band and showed great potential in the further disease diagnosis associated with H2S.