bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dose‐intensified stereotactic body radiotherapy for painful vertebral metastases: A randomized phase 3 trial
Authors: Guckenberger Matthias , Billiet Charlotte , Schnell Daniel , Franzese Ciro , Spałek Mateusz , Rogers Susanne , Stelmes Jean‐Jacques , Aebersold Daniel M. , Hemmatazad Hossein , Zimmermann Frank , Zimmer Jörg , Zilli Thomas , Bruni Alessio , Baumert Brigitta G. , Nägler Franziska , Gut Philipp , Förster Robert , Madani Indira
Published: April 2024

Background

The purpose of this randomised study was to determine whether dose‐intensified stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) for painful vertebral metastases results in increased rates of pain improvement compared with conventional external beam radiotherapy (cEBRT) (control) 6 months after treatment.

Methods

This randomized, controlled phase 3 trial was conducted between November 2016 and January 2023, when it was stopped early. Patients were eligible if they were aged 18 years or older; had one or two painful, stable, or potentially unstable vertebral metastases; and had a life expectancy of 1 year or longer according to the investigator's estimates. Patients received 48.5 grays (Gy) in 10 fractions (with epidural involvement) or 40 Gy in five fractions (without epidural involvement) in the SBRT group and 30 Gy in 10 fractions or 20 Gy in five fractions in the cEBRT group, respectively. The primary end point was an improvement in the pain score at the treated site by at least 2 points (on a visual analog scale from 0 to 10 points) at 6‐month follow‐up. Data were analyzed on an intention‐to‐treat and per‐protocol basis.

Results

Of 214 patients who were screened for eligibility, 63 were randomized 1:1 between SBRT (33 patients with 36 metastases) and cEBRT (30 patients with 31 metastases). The median age of all patients was 66 years, and 40 patients were men (63.5%). In the intention‐to‐treat analysis, the 6‐month proportion of patients who had metastases with pain reduction by 2 or more points was significantly higher in the SBRT group versus the control group (69.4% vs. 41.9%, respectively; two‐sided p = .02). Changes in opioid medication intake relative to baseline were nonsignificant between the groups. No differences were observed in vertebral compression fracture or adverse event rates between the groups.

Conclusions

Dose‐intensified SBRT improved pain score more effectively than cEBRT at 6 months.
Investigation on Fluorescence Origin and Spectral Heterogeneity in Carbon Dots: A Dynamic Perspective
Authors: Singaravelu Chandra Mohan , Deschanels Xavier , Rey Cyrielle , Causse Jérémy
Published: April 2024

Heterogeneity in the fluorescence of carbon dots (CDs) has been hard to figure out so far. This could potentially be related to structural factors, size or intermediate fluorophores, especially when employing the bottom‐up synthesis. Herein, we unveil the origin of fluorescence and spectral heterogeneity of CDs using a simple dynamic method. This work reports the room light‐excited green fluorescence and dual‐emissive N‐doped CDs synthesized using a hydrothermal method. Studies were carried out considering the factors of fluorescence phenomena, such as excitation‐independent emission, fluorescent impurities, aggregation and solvation dynamics. The new steady‐state, Excitation‐resolved area‐normalized emission spectroscopy (ERANES) and ensemble measurements, including time‐resolved studies reveal that a heterogeneous environment exists in the ground state. Eventually, the results show the existence of core, edge and surface states in the CDs. Additionally, the fluorescence characteristics depend on the structural functionalization that occurs in both the intrinsic and extrinsic states of the CDs and it is proven that this does not violate the Kasha‐Vavilov rule. Although a highly purified material could still exhibit heterogeneity due to the ensemble emissive states and structural variations. Our results provide insights into the enduring debates about fluorescence and a deeper understanding of the structure‐ property relationship of CDs.
A multi‐level model integrating corporate social responsibility and political activity in the European Union: What are the institutional implications for foreign companies?
Authors: Borges Andreia , Ramalho Nelson
Published: April 2024

Many multinational corporations develop business operations in Europe. The current research attempts to fill the gap on how corporations can increase their political influence in this geography by exploring the joint effect of corporate political activity (CPA) and social responsibility (CSR) on political embeddedness and financial performance. Based on institutional theory and on a sample of autochthonous (European Union [EU]) and allochthonous (non‐EU) firms with declared EU lobbying (from 2008 to 2019) we conducted two studies. Based on a multi‐level model, Study 1 finds strong and robust evidence that boardroom gender diversity and EU lobbyists interactively increase EU political embeddedness. Complementarily, Study 2, which relies on general linear Modeling, suggests that allochthonous corporations are more profitable when they display high‐level political embeddedness and lobbying expenditures, combined with adoption of United Nations (UN) guidelines. Overall, findings show that lobbying in Europe pays off, especially when corporations strive to be aligned with EU ethical values and aspirations. Hiring lobbyists to be based in Brussels and promoting gender equality help establish EU political connections. Subsequently, findings highlight the role that EU political embeddedness, lobbying expenditures, and UN guidelines play in leveraging financial performance, especially across non‐EU corporations. Regarding EU corporations, results show that a firm‐level investment on CPA‐CSR is particularly important. Overall, findings from this research support corporations that are growing businesses in Europe.
Green human resource management and employee ecological behaviour: Testing green culture and green satisfaction as parallel mediators in Malaysian higher education
Authors: Noor Faezah Juhari , Yusliza Mohd Yusoff , Ramayah T. , Jabbour Charbel Jose Chiappetta , Kot Sebastian
Published: April 2024

This research examines the influence of green human resource management (green HRM) on employee ecological behaviour (EEB) by drawing on Ability‐Motivation‐Opportunity theory. The mediating roles of green culture and green satisfaction are also investigated. The paper employs a quantitative design using a convenience sampling technique/approach by collecting data using a structured questionnaire from 308 academics working in the Malaysian higher education institutions. Partial least squares‐structural equation modelling is employed to verify the proposed hypotheses. The results demonstrate that green HRM positively impacts green culture and green satisfaction. Furthermore, green satisfaction positively influences EEB, where it fully mediates the association between green HRM and EEB. These results are helpful for HR professionals and senior management in terms of how green HRM may impact employee green outcomes. To date, the literature on green HRM in the higher education context is limited. This study not only enriches the general literature on green HRM but also offers a novel contribution regarding the introduction of green culture and green satisfaction as mediating variables in the association between green HRM and EEB.
Ewing sarcoma of the mandible: A rare case report and literature review
Authors: Gündoğar Özgecan , Komut Neslihan , Bektaş Sibel , Tetik Fatih , Uçar Neşe
Published: April 2024

Ewing sarcoma (ES) usually arises from long bones and affects the head and neck region in only 1%–4% of cases. We reported clinical, radiographic, cytomorphologic, and histomorphologic findings of the ES in the mandible, because of its rarity and radiologically misinterpreted as a parotid gland tumor. A 26‐year‐old male patient presented with a history of painfull cheek swelling. On magnetic resonance imaging, a mass measuring 50 × 48 × 45 mm was found eroding mandible and pushing back the parotid gland. Aspiration cytology was performed with suspicion of parotid gland tumor. Small, nucleated cells with nuclear indentation, inconspicuous nucleoli, and occasionally rosette‐like arrangement were observed. Neuroendocrine immune markers were positive on cell block. It was diagnosed as small round cell neoplasm with neuroendocrine differentiation and biopsy was suggested. The differential diagnosis considered soft tissue and parotid gland tumors. The small round cell tumor morphology was seen on biopsy specimen and immunostaining was applied. The diagnosis for this case was ES of the mandible. ES of the mandible is unusual. Although the histogenesis is still unknown, various cells have been proposed as cells of origin namely, endothelial, hematopoietic, fibroblastic, mesenchymal stem cells or neural derived mesenchymal stem cells. Small cell morphology, CD99, CD56, neuron specific enolase, and synaptophysin expressions confirmed the diagnosis of ES. The differentiation of the ES from other small cell tumors may be difficult and requires awareness for histological and immunohistochemical features. It should be kept in mind that the diagnosis can be challenging due to uncommon locations and radiological misinterpreted.
Associations of birth weight, plasma metabolome in adulthood and risk of type 2 diabetes
Authors: Wang Wenxiu , Zhuang Zhenhuang , Zhao Yimin , Song Zimin , Huang Ninghao , Li Yueying , Dong Xue , Xiao Wendi , Huang Tao
Published: April 2024

Aims

We aimed to examine the longitudinal associations of birth weight with plasma metabolites in adulthood, and further quantify the proportions of the links between birth weight and incident adult type 2 diabetes (T2D) that were mediated by plasma metabolites.

Materials and Methods

A total of 62,033 participants with complete nuclear magnetic resonance metabolomics and birth weight data from the UK Biobank were included in this study. Linear regression was used to assess the associations between birth weight and metabolites. Cox regression was used to estimate hazard ratios for T2D associated with metabolites. We further performed mediation analyses to estimate the extent to which metabolites might mediate the association between birth weight and T2D risk.

Results

Low birth weight was associated with the adverse metabolic responses across multiple metabolic pathways, including lipoprotein subclasses, amino acids, fatty acids (FA), and inflammation. Metabolites associated with higher birth weight tended to be associated with a lower risk of T2D (Pearson correlation coefficient: −0.85). A total of 62 metabolites showed statistically significant mediation effects in the protective association of higher birth weight and T2D risk, including large‐sized very low‐density lipoprotein particles and triglyceride concentrations as well as saturated, and monounsaturated FA and glycoprotein acetyls.

Conclusions

We identified a range of metabolites that reflect the adult metabolic response to birth weight, some of which might lie on the pathway between birth weight and adult T2D risk.
Simultaneous quantitation and identification of intact Nandrolone phase II oxo‐metabolites based on derivatization and inject LC–MS/(HRMS) methodology
Authors: Sakellariou Panagiotis , Kiousi Polyxeni , Petrou Michael , Angelis Yiannis S.
Published: April 2024

Α sensitive and selective derivatization and inject method for the quantification of intact nandrolone phase II oxo‐metabolites was developed and validated using liquid chromatography ‐ (tandem high resolution) mass spectrometry (LC–MS/(HRMS)). For the derivatization, Girard's reagent T (GRT) was used directly in natural urine samples and the analysis of the metabolites of interest was performed by direct injection into LC–MS/(HRMS) system operating in positive ionization mode. Derivatization enabled the efficient detection of nandrolone oxo‐metabolites, while at the same time producing intense product ions under collision‐induced dissociation (CID) conditions that are related to metabolites of the steroid backbone and not to the conjugated moieties. Glucuronide and sulfate metabolites of nandrolone were chromatographically resolved and quantified in the same run in the range of 1–100 ng mL−1, while at the same time structure identification could be performed for each metabolite. Full validation of the method was performed according to the World Anti‐Doping Agency (WADA) International Standard for Laboratories (ISL). Nandrolone oxo‐metabolites were quantified in two sets of urine samples, the first set consisted of real urine samples previously detected as negative and the second set consisted of urine samples collected from two excretion studies after nandrolone decanoate administration. The results for 19‐norandrosterone glucuronide (19‐NAG) and 19‐noretiocholanolone glucuronide (19‐NEG) were compared with those obtained by traditional gas chromatography ‐ (tandem) mass spectrometry (GC–MS/[MS]) method.
Ungulates mitigate the effects of drought and shrub encroachment on the fire hazard ofMediterranean oak woodlands
Authors: Lecomte Xavier , Bugalho Miguel N. , Catry Filipe X. , Fernandes Paulo M. , Cera Andreu , Caldeira Maria C.
Published: April 2024

Climate change is increasing the frequency of droughts and the risk of severe wildfires, which can interact with shrub encroachment and browsing by wild ungulates. Wild ungulate populations are expanding due, among other factors, to favorable habitat changes resulting from land abandonment or land‐use changes. Understanding how ungulate browsing interacts with drought to affect woody plant mortality, plant flammability, and fire hazard is especially relevant in the context of climate change and increasing frequency of wildfires. The aim of this study is to explore the combined effects of cumulative drought, shrub encroachment, and ungulate browsing on the fire hazard of Mediterranean oak woodlands in Portugal. In a long‐term (18 years) ungulate fencing exclusion experiment that simulated land abandonment and management neglect, we investigated the population dynamics of the native shrubCistus ladanifer, which naturally dominates the understory of woodlands and is browsed by ungulates, comparing areas with (no fencing) and without (fencing) wild ungulate browsing. We also modeled fire behavior in browsed and unbrowsed plots considering drought and nondrought scenarios. Specifically, we estimatedC. ladaniferpopulation density, biomass, and fuel load characteristics, which were used to model fire behavior in drought and nondrought scenarios. Overall, drought increased the proportion of deadC. ladanifershrub individuals, which was higher in the browsed plots. Drought decreased the ratio of live to dead shrub plant material, increased total fuel loading, shrub stand flammability, and the modeled fire parameters, that is, rate of surface fire spread, fireline intensity, and flame length. However, total fuel load and fire hazard were lower in browsed than unbrowsed plots, both in drought and nondrought scenarios. Browsing also decreased the population density of living shrubs, halting shrub encroachment. Our study provides long‐term experimental evidence showing the role of wild ungulates in mitigating drought effects on fire hazard in shrub‐encroached Mediterranean oak woodlands. Our results also emphasize that the long‐term effects of land abandonment can interact with climate change drivers, affecting wildfire hazard. This is particularly relevant given the increasing incidence of land abandonment.
Achieved dose and treatment discontinuation of candesartan in men and women with chronic heart failure: data from CHARM
Authors: Qin Hailun , Dewan Pooja , Santema Bernadet T. , ter Maaten Jozine M. , Swedberg Karl , McMurray John J. V. , Voors Adriaan A.
Published: April 2024

Aims

Angiotensin receptor blockers have been shown to reduce heart failure hospitalization and cardiovascular mortality in men and women with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). It is unknown whether there are differences between men and women in achieved dose and treatment discontinuation due to adverse events of candesartan.

Methods and results

We conducted a post hoc analysis of the Candesartan in Heart failure: Assessment of Reduction in Mortality and morbidity (CHARM) programme. A total of 3172 men and 1106 women with HFrEF [left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) ≤ 40%] in New York Heart Association class II–IV were randomized to candesartan or placebo. Every 2 weeks, patients were up‐titrated from 4 or 8, to16, to 32 mg once daily, unless a higher dose was contraindicated or not tolerated. Women were older (66 vs. 64 years), had a higher LVEF (29.9% vs. 28.6%), and had more hypertension (54% vs. 47%) than men. The mean achieved dose of candesartan was 21.5 ± 12.6 mg in men and 20.7 ± 12.9 mg in women (P = 0.19). In both the candesartan and placebo groups, cardiovascular death and heart failure hospitalizations were higher in men and women who achieved lower dose levels. Event rates for achieved dose levels of 0, 4 or 8, 16, and 32 mg candesartan were 20.8, 17.2, 14.0, and 10.1 per 100 person‐years in men, respectively, and 23.6, 13.7, 14.0, and 9.1 per 100 person‐years in women, respectively. In each of the achieved dose levels, there was no sex difference in the proportion of patients with an event, neither in the candesartan group nor in the placebo group (P‐value for all > 0.05). There was no significant interaction between sex and treatment‐related discontinuation for hypotension (P = 0.520), an increase in creatinine (P = 0.102), and hyperkalaemia (P = 0.905).

Conclusions

In a randomized clinical trial in patients with HFrEF, men and women achieved similar doses of candesartan. Primary event rates and treatment‐related discontinuation due to adverse events were also similar between men and women.
Association between pulmonary artery pulsatility and mortality after implantation of left ventricular assist device
Authors: Akamkam Ali , Galand Vincent , Jungling Marie , Delmas Clément , Dambrin Camille , Pernot Mathieu , Kindo Michel , Gaudard Philippe , Rouviere Philippe , Senage Thomas , Chavanon Olivier , Para Marylou , Gariboldi Vlad , Pozzi Matteo , Litzler Pierre‐Yves , Babatasi Gerard , Bouchot Olivier , Radu Costin , Bourguignon Thierry , D'Ostrevy Nicolas , Abi Akar Ramzi , Vanhuyse Fabrice , Gaillard Maïra , Chatelier Gilles , Fels Audrey , Flecher Erwan , Guihaire Julien
Published: April 2024

Aims

Right ventricular failure after left ventricular assist device (LVAD) implantation is a major concern that remains challenging to predict. We sought to investigate the relationship between preoperative pulmonary artery pulsatility index (PAPi) and mortality after LVAD implantation.

Methods and results

A retrospective analysis of the ASSIST‐ICD multicentre registry allowed the assessment of PAPi before LVAD according to the formula [(systolic pulmonary artery pressure − diastolic pulmonary artery pressure)/central venous pressure]. The primary endpoint was survival at 3 months, according to the threshold value of PAPi determined by the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. A multivariate analysis including demographic, echographic, haemodynamic, and biological variables was performed to identify predictive factors for 2 year mortality. One hundred seventeen patients were included from 2007 to 2021. The mean age was 58.45 years (±13.16), with 15.4% of women (sex ratio 5.5). A total of 53.4% were implanted as bridge to transplant and 43.1% as destination therapy. Post‐operative right ventricular failure was observed in 57 patients (48.7%), with no significant difference between survivors and non‐survivors at 1 month (odds ratio 1.59, P = 0.30). The median PAPi for the whole study population was 2.83 [interquartile range 1.63–4.69]. The threshold value of PAPi determined by the ROC curve was 2.84. Patients with PAPi ≥ 2.84 had a higher survival rate at 3 months [PAPi < 2.84: 58.1% [46.3–72.8%] vs. PAPi ≥ 2.84: 89.1% [81.1–97.7%], hazard ratio (HR) 0.08 [0.02–0.28], P < 0.01], with no significant difference after 3 months (HR 0.67 [0.17–2.67], P = 0.57). Other predictors of 2 year mortality were systemic hypertension (HR 4.22 [1.49–11.97], P < 0.01) and diabetes mellitus (HR 4.90 [1.83–13.14], P < 0.01). LVAD implantation as bridge to transplant (HR 0.18 [0.04–0.74], P = 0.02) and heart transplantation (HR 0.02 [0.00–0.18], P < 0.01) were associated with a higher survival rate at 2 years.

Conclusions

Preoperative PAPi < 2.84 was associated with a higher risk of early mortality after LVAD implantation without impacting 2 year outcomes among survivors.
The peptide neuromedin U (NMU) is elevated in NYHA II and III heart failure
Authors: Healy Vincent , O'Hora Therese Ruane , Markos Farouk
Published: April 2024

Aims

Currently, there is no reliable biomarker to detect pre‐heart failure in humans. An early risk signal is an elevated left atrial pressure (LAP) and preliminary results from animal studies strongly suggest the neuropeptide neuromedin U (NMU) is released in response to this increase in LAP. However, it is unknown whether NMU is elevated in patients with heart failure. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess if NMU levels are elevated in human cases of heart failure.

Methods and results

Twenty‐four serum samples were obtained from patients in stage II and III heart failure from the Royal Papworth Hospital in Cambridge UK and tested using a selective NMU‐ELISA; the data were compared with serum obtained commercially from self‐declared healthy donors. NMU concentrations in serum from heart failure patients were significantly higher (P = 0.0007; unpaired Student's t‐test) than control, 8.48 ± 0.67 ng/mL (mean ± SEM) versus 5.43 ± 0.46 ng/mL. There was no significant difference between NYHA stage II and III patients (P = 0.85, unpaired Student's t‐test), which were 8.33 ± 0.89 ng/mL (n = 9) and 8.6 ± 0.95 ng/mL (n = 15), respectively. Only mean right atrial pressure was found to have a significant correlation with serum NMU (R = 0.81, P < 0.00001; regression analysis).

Conclusions

NMU is elevated in serum from stage II and III heart failure patients, supporting data from our pre‐heart failure animal model; however, further study is needed to determine whether NMU is a reliable biomarker for pre‐heart failure.
Tumor‐associated macrophages impair NK cell IFN‐γ production and contribute to tumor progression in clear cell renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Núñez Sol Yanel , Trotta Aldana , Regge María Victoria , Amarilla María Sofía , Secchiari Florencia , Sierra Jessica Mariel , Santilli María Cecilia , Gantov Mariana , Rovegno Agustín , Richards Nicolás , Ameri Carlos , Ríos Pita Hernando , Rico Luis , Mieggi Mauro , Vitagliano Gonzalo , Blas Leandro , Friedrich Adrián David , Domaica Carolina Inés , Fuertes Mercedes Beatriz , Zwirner Norberto Walter
Published: April 2024

Tumor‐associated macrophages (TAM) are abundant in several tumor types and usually correlate with poor prognosis. Previously, we demonstrated that anti‐inflammatory macrophages (M2) inhibit NK cell effector functions. Here, we explored the impact of TAM on NK cells in the context of clear‐cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC). Bioinformatics analysis revealed that an exhausted NK cell signature strongly correlated with an M2 signature. Analysis of TAM from human ccRCC samples confirmed that they exhibited an M2‐skewed phenotype and inhibited IFN‐γ production by NK cells. Moreover, human M0 macrophages cultured with conditioned media from ccRCC cell lines generated macrophages with an M2‐skewed phenotype (TAM‐like), which alike TAM, displayed suppressive activity on NK cells. Moreover, TAM depletion in the mouse Renca ccRCC model resulted in delayed tumor growth and reduced volume, accompanied by an increased frequency of IFN‐γ‐producing tumor‐infiltrating NK cells that displayed heightened expression of T‐bet and NKG2D and reduced expression of the exhaustion‐associated co‐inhibitory molecules PD‐1 and TIM‐3. Therefore, in ccRCC, the tumor microenvironment polarizes TAM toward an immunosuppressive profile that promotes tumor‐infiltrating NK cell dysfunction, contributing to tumor progression. In addition, immunotherapy strategies targeting TAM may result in NK cell reinvigoration, thereby counteracting tumor progression.
Structural and Electronic Impacts of the Axial Substitution at the Phosphorus Center of C(sp3)‐Bridged P‐Heterotriangulenes
Authors: Harrer Siegfried , Schühle Johannes D. R. , Neiß Christian , Günthert Marina , Mittmann Lena , Reule Andrea , Leitner Jonas , Rominger Frank , Görling Andreas , Kivala Milan
Published: April 2024

The structural and electronic properties of the dimethylmethylene‐bridged P‐heterotriangulene have been systematically modulated by functionalization of its phosphorus center. The optoelectronic properties of the obtained derivatives in solution were characterized by UV/Vis absorption and emission spectroscopy, cyclic voltammetry and 31P NMR spectroscopy. The solid state structures were analyzed by X‐ray crystallography. The experimental results were corroborated by density functional theory calculations which revealed the crucial influence of the axial substitution on the bowl‐shaped geometry of the phosphorus‐centered polycyclic scaffold, which is proportional to the s‐character of the P−X bond. The advantage of the bowl‐shaped P‐heterotriangulene scaffold was demonstrated by successful co‐crystallization with fullerene C60.
A novel composite electrode based on graphene oxide/MnO2:h‐MoO3 particles for square wave voltammetric determination of acetaminophen
Authors: Aktürk Merve , Dursun Zekerya
Published: April 2024

A novel composite electrode was developed based on graphene oxide (GO)/MnO2:h‐MoO3 nanocomposite for sensitive and selective voltammetric detection of acetaminophen (ACP). The composite electrode materials were characterized using X‐Ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), X‐Ray Diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and cyclic voltammetric (CV) techniques. In the optimum conditions, the oxidation peak current (Ipa) of ACP was increased linearly with its concentration over two linear ranges from 0.06 to 10.0 μmol L−1 and 20.0 to 80.0 μmol L−1 with a detection limit of 0.0133 μmol L−1. Due to its higher selectivity and long term stability, the composite electrode was applied to the detection of ACP in pharmaceutical formulations.
Study of the water electrolyzer with proton exchange membrane performance based on Ti current collectors charged with hydrogen
Authors: Sinyakov Matvey , Mensharapov Ruslan , Ivanov Boris , Spasov Dmitry , Zasypkina Adelina , Pak Yuri , Ivanova Nataliya
Published: April 2024

This work investigates the influence of hydrogen accumulation in titanium current collectors on the operating characteristics of a water electrolyzer. The investigated dependence is complex and considers the influence of both hydrogen concentration and formed titanium hydride on the characteristics of the water electrolyzer. Additionally, it takes into account the deformation of collectors and the state of their surface, which changes depending on the method of hydrogen charging from the gas phase. As the hydrogen concentration in cathode current collectors increases up to 50.2 at. %, there is a tendency for the performance of the electrolysis cell to decrease. However, the total overvoltage of the cell does not increase by more than 5 %. The transport losses of the cell are primarily affected by the hydrogen content in the current collectors. The change in morphology and structure of grains in the near‐surface layer is associated with the formation of the titanium hydride phase and the cracking of samples. The maximum increase in overvoltage for transport losses under the studied conditions was approximately 37.5 %. This effect must be considered when scaling and developing large hydrogen generation systems.
Colloidal quantum dots and two‐dimensional material heterostructures for photodetector applications
Authors: Luo Jingying , Selopal Gurpreet Singh , Tong Xin , Wang Zhiming
Published: April 2024

Photodetectors (PDs) are optoelectronic devices that convert optical signals into electrical responses. Recently, there has been a tremendous increase in research interest in PDs based on colloidal quantum dots (QDs) and two‐dimensional (2D) material heterostructures owing to the strong light‐absorption capacity and the well‐adjustable band gap of QDs and the superior charge carriers transfer ability of 2D materials. In particular, the heterojunction formed between QDs and 2D materials can effectively enhance the separation and transport of photogenerated charge carriers, which is expected to establish PDs with ultrahigh photoconductive gain, high responsivity, and detectivity. This review aimed to summarize the state‐of‐the‐art advances in the research of QDs/2D material nanohybrid PDs, including the device parameters, architectures, working mechanisms, and fabrication technologies. The progress of hybrid PDs based on the heterojunction of QDs with different 2D materials, along with their innovative applications, are comprehensively described. In the end, the challenges and feasible strategies in future research and development are briefly proposed.
The grain size of sediments delivered to steep debris‐flow prone channels prior to and following wildfire
Authors: Neely Alexander B. , Moon Seulgi , DiBiase Roman A. , Sklar Leonard S. , Argueta Marina O.
Published: April 2024

Debris flows are powered by sediment supplied from steep hillslopes where soils are often patchy and interrupted by bare‐bedrock cliffs. The role of patchy soils and cliffs in supplying sediment to channels remains unclear, particularly surrounding wildfire disturbances that heighten debris‐flow hazards by increasing sediment supply to channels. Here, we examine how variation in soil cover on hillslopes affects sediment sizes in channels surrounding the 2020 El Dorado wildfire, which burned debris‐flow prone slopes in the San Bernardino Mountains, California. We focus on six headwater catchments (<0.1 km2) where hillslope sources ranged from a continuous soil mantle to 95% bare‐bedrock cliffs. At each site, we measured sediment grain size distributions at the same channel locations before and immediately following the wildfire. We compared results to a mixing model that accounts for three distinct hillslope sediment sources distinguished by local slope thresholds. We find that channel sediment in fully soil‐mantled catchments reflects hillslope soils (D50 = 0.1–0.2 cm) both before and after the wildfire. In steeper catchments with cliffs, channel sediment is consistently coarse prior to fire (D50 = 6–32 cm) and reflects bedrock fracture spacing, despite cliffs representing anywhere from 5% to 95% of the sediment source area. Following the fire, channel sediment size reduces most (5‐ to 20‐fold) in catchments where hillslope sources are predominantly soil covered but with patches of cliffs. The abrupt fining of channel sediment is thought to facilitate postfire debris‐flow initiation, and our results imply that this effect is greatest where bare‐bedrock cliffs are present but not dominant. A patchwork of bare‐bedrock cliffs is common in steeplands where hillslopes respond to channel incision by landsliding. We show how local slope thresholds applied to such terrain aid in estimating sediment supply conditions before two destructive debris flows that eventually nucleated in these study catchments in 2022.
Rock glacier distribution and kinematics in Shigar and Shayok basins based on radar and optical remote sensing
Authors: Hassan Javed , Berg Danjal Longfors , Lippert Eigil Y. H. , CHEN Xiaoqing , Hassan Wajid , Hassan Muzammil , Hussain Iqtidar , Bazai Nazir Ahmed , Khan Shfaqat A.
Published: April 2024

Recent studies have demonstrated the rock glacier destabilisation and permafrost thawing induced by warming climate represent a continuous threat to life, infrastructure and socio‐economic development in the mountainous regions of the Hindu Kush Himalaya. This study presents the first systematic rock glacier inventory for the Shigar and Shayok basins, quantifying rock glacier geomorphology and kinematics based on morphological evidence using Google Earth images and interferometric synthetic aperture radar (InSAR). The certainty index of each inventoried rock glacier is recorded, along with its geomorphological properties and kinematic attributes. The rock glacier velocity is estimated through the InSAR time series analysis of Sentinel‐1 images from 2020 to 2021, with temporal baselines at 12‐day intervals. We developed a rock glacier inventory consisting of 84 rock glaciers covering an area of 29 km2 for the Shigar Basin and 2206 rock glaciers encompassing 369 km2 for the Shayok Basin. Among these rock glaciers, 69% and 52% are categorised as active rock glaciers, respectively. Rock glaciers in both catchments are confined to elevations between 3600 and 5875 m a.s.l., with a mean area of 0.22 km2. The maximum recorded velocity for active rock glaciers in the Shigar Basin is 101 ± 9 cm year−1, with a median of 27 ± 10 cm year−1, and in the Shayok Basin 114 ± 10 cm year−1 (median of 29 ± 9 cm year−1). Temporal variations in the surface velocities of the rock glaciers reveal that they increase with rising temperatures in both catchments, highlighting the seasonality in the rock glacier surface velocity. In total, we recorded the kinematic attributes of 98% of the inventoried rock glaciers in the study area.
Impact of low‐oxalate diet on hyperoxaluria among patients suffering from nephrolithiasis
Authors: Aziz Khizra , Noreen Sana , Tufail Tabussam , Ishaq Izwa , Shah Mohd Asif
Published: April 2024

Low‐oxalate diets are useful for treating hyperoxaluria in nephrolithiasis patients. This study was unique in examining how a low‐oxalate diet in addition to a standard diet affected hyperoxaluria and renal function tests in nephrolithiasis patients. The effects of a low‐oxalate diet were analyzed by different biochemical tests, that is, anthropometric measurements, blood oxalate test, renal function test, electrolyte profile test, and 24 h urine analysis. For this purpose, 112 patients were divided into 2 groups: Group T1 (Conventional diet) and Group T2 (Low‐Oxalate diet) for 8 weeks. Each group was tested at the initiation and end of the study. Using SPSS, the obtained data from each parameter were statistically analyzed. The results showed that a low‐oxalate diet had a positive effect on patients suffering from nephrolithiasis. Furthermore, after treatment, anthropometric measurement weight (kg) among the control group (T1) was 100.45 ± 5.65 and the treatment group (T2) was 79.71 ± 9.48 kg. The effect of low‐oxalate diet on renal function test: creatinine (g/d) among T1 was 2.08 ± 0.86 and T2 was 1.17 ± 0.13, uric acid(mg/d) among T1 was 437.04 ± 24.20 and T2 was 364.61 ± 35.99, urinary oxalate (mg/d) among T1 was 76.84 ± 10.33 and T2 was 39.24 ± 1.51, respectively. Sodium (mEq/d) among T1 was 156.72 ± 6.37 and T2 was 159.84 ± 6.31, potassium (mEq/d) among T1 was 69.91 ± 15.37 and T2 was 89.21 ± 6.31, phosphorus (g/d) among T1 was 0.96 ± 0.07 and T2 was 0.34 ± 0.27, respectively. This study demonstrated that nephrolithiasis patients with hyperoxaluria benefit from low‐oxalate diets. Hyperoxaluria patients should eat a low‐oxalate diet to use oxalate without affecting metabolism and eliminate it from the kidney without stones.
The brother's penalty: Boy preference and girls' health in rural China
Authors: Ye Yuli , He Qinying , Li Qiang , An Lian
Published: April 2024

This paper identifies the health penalty experienced by girls due to having a brother from endogenous sibling gender composition. We propose a girls‐to‐girls comparison strategy and rule out the confounding effect from the sibship size, birth interval, and birth order. Employing an instrumental variable approach and data from the Chinese Family Panel Studies, we find that girls with a brother are demonstrably shorter and report poorer health. This “brother's penalty” manifests even prenatally. Alternative explanations, such as birth order disadvantages, are carefully addressed and ruled out. The results hold even after excluding gender‐neutral ethnic minorities. This observed penalty is likely attributed to unequal resource allocation within families and potential parental neglect. This penalty is amplified in families with lower income and maternal education, implying resource constraints contribute to gender discrimination. Our findings highlight the importance of addressing intrafamily gender bias for ensuring equal opportunities and health outcomes.

Clinical trial registration: Not applicable.
Elevating theranostics: The emergence and promise of radiopharmaceutical cell‐targeting heterodimers in human cancers
Authors: Chambers Claudia , Chitwood Broc , Smith Charles J. , Miao Yubin
Published: April 2024

Optimal therapeutic and diagnostic efficacy is essential for healthcare's global mission of advancing oncologic drug development. Accurate diagnosis and detection are crucial prerequisites for effective risk stratification and personalized patient care in clinical oncology. A paradigm shift is emerging with the promise of multi‐receptor‐targeting compounds. While existing detection and staging methods have demonstrated some success, the traditional approach of monotherapy is being reevaluated to enhance therapeutic effectiveness. Heterodimeric site‐specific agents are a versatile solution by targeting two distinct biomarkers with a single theranostic agent. This review describes the innovation of dual‐targeting compounds, examining their design strategies, therapeutic implications, and the promising path they present for addressing complex diseases.
Isobavachalcone induces hepatotoxicity in zebrafish embryos and HepG2 cells via the System Xc−‐GSH‐GPX4 signaling pathway in ferroptosis response
Authors: Ni Xuan , Gao Chen , Zhu Xiaolin , Zhang Xiaosong , Fang Yizhuo , Hao Zhihui
Published: April 2024

Isobavachalcone (IBC) is a flavonoid component of the traditional Chinese medicine Psoraleae Fructus, with a range of pharmacological properties. However, IBC causes some hepatotoxicity, and the mechanism of toxicity is unclear. The purpose of this paper was to investigate the possible mechanism of toxicity of IBC on HepG2 cells and zebrafish embryos. The results showed that exposure to IBC increased zebrafish embryo mortality and decreased hatchability. Meanwhile, IBC induced liver injury and increased expression of ALT and AST activity. Further studies showed that IBC caused the increase of ROS and MDA the decrease of CAT, GSH, and GSH‐Px; the increase of Fe2+ content; and the changes of ferroptosis related genes (acsl4, gpx4, and xct) and iron storage related genes (tf, fth, and fpn) in zebrafish embryos. Through in vitro verification, it was found that IBC also caused oxidative stress and increased Fe2+ content in HepG2 cells. IBC caused depolarization of mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) and reduction of mitochondrial ATP, as well as altered expression of ACSl4, SLC7A11, GPX4, and FTH1 proteins. Treatment of HepG2 cells with ferrostatin‐1 could reverse the effect of IBC. Targeting the System Xc−‐GSH‐GPX4 pathway of ferroptosis and preventing oxidative stress damage might offer a theoretical foundation for practical therapy and prevention of IBC‐induced hepatotoxicity.
Chemical sensing of common microorganisms found in biopharmaceutical industries using MIR laser spectroscopy and multivariate analysis
Authors: Carrión‐Roca Wilmer , Colón‐Mercado Annette M. , Castro‐Suarez John R. , Caballero‐Agosto Edwin R. , Colón‐González Francheska M. , Centeno‐Ortiz José A. , Ríos‐Velázquez Carlos , Hernández‐Rivera Samuel P.
Published: April 2024

Mid‐infrared laser spectroscopy was used to investigate common bacteria encountered in biopharmaceutical industries. The study involved the detection of bacteria using quantum cascade laser spectroscopy coupled to a grazing angle probe (QCL‐GAP). Substrates similar to surfaces commonly used in biopharmaceutical industries were used as support media for the samples. Reflectance measurements were assisted by Multivariate Analysis (MVA) to assemble a powerful spectroscopic technique with classification and identification resources. The species analyzed, Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, and Micrococcus luteus, were used to challenge the technique's capability to discriminate from microorganisms of the same family. Principal Components Analysis and Partial Least Squares‐Discriminant Analysis differentiated between the bacterial species, using QCL‐GAP‐MVA as the reference. Spectral differences in the bacterial membrane were used to determine if these microorganisms were present in the samples analyzed. Results herein provided effective discrimination for the bacteria under study with high sensitivity and specificity.
A simple, sensitive, and selective colorimetric chemosensor for sequential determination of dual analytes, Ce3+, H2PO4−, and its applications in the logic gate construction and the system of keypad lock
Authors: Tavallali Hossein , Parhami Abolfath , Salami Maryam Sadat , Karimi Mohammad Ali
Published: April 2024

Sodium (E)‐3‐hydroxy‐4‐((2‐hydroxynaphthalen‐1‐yl)diazenyl)naphthalene‐1‐sulfonate (Calcon, CAL), is employed for the first time as a reversible colorimetric chemosensor to detect and measure Ce3+ and H2PO4− sequentially in the aqueous medium. The detection process has two steps. The interaction of CAL and Ce3+ in the first step with a noticeable color shift from purple to blue. Further, the reaction between CAL‐Ce3+ and H2PO4− shows a clear color return from blue back to initial purple similar to that for CAL. The UV–visible examination of this color return reveals that H2PO4− removes Ce3+ and restores CAL content. The results showed that CAL and CAL‐Ce3+ had a strong binding affinity and adequate detection limits for the Ce3+ and H2PO4−, respectively. For Ce3+, the linear range and detection limit are 1.20 × 10−6‐1.02 × 10−4 and 2.0 × 10−7molL−1, while for H2PO4−, they are 2.0 × 10−7‐8.7 × 10−6 and 3.0 × 10−8 molL−1. Finally, we measured these two ions in real samples using this methodology. Furthermore, the examination of the suggested receptor's logical behavior revealed that it can operate as a colorimetric chemosensor of the INHIBIT type, receiving chemical inputs and producing a UV–visible absorbance signal as the output. If Ce3+ and H2PO4− inputs are added in proper order, the receptor may also function as a molecular “keypad lock.”
Autonomic function and specific right atrial functions – Is there a relationship? Correlations from the three‐dimensional speckle‐tracking echocardiographic MAGYAR‐Healthy Study
Authors: Nemes Attila , Kormányos Árpád , Orosz Andrea , Ambrus Nóra , Várkonyi Tamás T. , Lengyel Csaba
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Similarly to the ventricles, the atria are under sympathetic/parasympathetic neural regulation. Accordingly, correlations were investigated between Ewing's standard cardiovascular reflex tests (SCRTs) and three‐dimensional speckle‐tracking echocardiography (3DSTE)‐derived right atrial (RA) volumes and strains in healthy subjects.

Materials and Methods

The study comprised 45 healthy adults, but 5 subjects were excluded due to inferior image quality for 3DSTE‐derived RA assessments. The remaining 40 individuals being in sinus rhythm had a mean age of 35.1 ± 3.5 years (20 men). Two‐dimensional, Doppler, 3DSTE and SCRTs were performed in all cases.

Results

RA maximum volume and total and passive RA stroke volumes correlated with the Valsalva ratio. Active RA stroke volume and emptying fraction showed correlations with 30/15 ratio. Peak global and mean segmental RA circumferential (CS) and longitudinal strains (LS) showed correlation with the Valsalva ratio. At atrial contraction, global RA‐LS and mean segmental RA‐CS showed correlations with the Valsalva ratio. Moreover, mean segmental RA‐CS correlated with 30/15 ratio and mean segmental RA radial strain showed correlations with systolic blood pressure in response to standing. Autonomic neuropathy score correlated with peak global RA‐LS.

Conclusions

Autonomic function parameters have significant associations with specific RA functions in healthy adults, making the latter possible indicators of autonomic dysregulation.
Quantitative evaluation of bronchoalveolar lavage for the treatment of severeMycoplasma pneumoniaepneumonia in children—A new complementary index: Bronchial Insufflation Sign Score
Authors: Gao Jin , Wu R. , Zhang Y. J. , Xu X. , Sa R. N. , Li X. A. , Liu C. Y.
Published: April 2024

Objective

The aim of this study was to investigate the value of Broncoplasma Insufflation Sign in lung ultrasound signs in assessing the efficacy of bronchoalveolar lavage in severeMycoplasma pneumoniaepneumonia in children.

Methods

Forty‐seven children with severeMycoplasma pneumoniaepneumonia were treated with medication and bronchial lavage. Laboratory and imaging results were collected, and lung ultrasonography was performed before bronchoalveolar lavage and 1, 3, and 7 days after lavage to record changes in Bronchial Insufflation Sign and changes in the extent of solid lung lesions. Factors affecting the effectiveness of bronchoalveolar lavage were analyzed using logistic regression and other factors.

Results

Bronchial Insufflation Sign Score and the extent of lung solid lesions were the factors affecting the effectiveness of bronchoalveolar lavage treatment. The smaller the area of lung solid lesions and the higher the Bronchial Insufflation Sign Score, the more effective the results of bronchoalveolar lavage treatment were, and the difference was statistically significant, with a difference ofp < 0.05. The Bronchial Insufflation Sign Score had the highest sensitivity and specificity for the prediction of the efficacy of bronchoalveolar lavage treatment in the first 7 days after the treatment.

Conclusion

Bronchial Insufflation Sign Score combined with the extent of solid lung lesions can assess the efficacy of bronchoalveolar lavage in the treatment of severeMycoplasma pneumoniaepneumonia in children; lung ultrasound is a timely and effective means of assessing the efficacy of bronchoalveolar lavage.
Apoptotic vesicles are required to repair DNA damage and suppress premature cellular senescence
Authors: Huang Zhiqing , Zhuang Yuzhi , Li Wenwen , Ma Mingchen , Lei Fangcao , Qu Yan , Li Jiaqi , Luo Huigen , Li Changzheng , Lu Lu , Ma Lan , Zhang Xiao , Kou Xiaoxing , Jiang Linjia , Mao Xueli , Shi Songtao
Published: April 2024

It is well known that DNA damage can cause apoptosis. However, whether apoptosis and its metabolites contribute to DNA repair is largely unknown. In this study, we found that apoptosis‐deficient Fasmut and Bim−/− mice show significantly elevated DNA damage and premature cellular senescence, along with a significantly reduced number of 16,000 g apoptotic vesicles (apoVs). Intravenous infusion of mesenchymal stromal cell (MSC)‐derived 16,000 g apoVs rescued the DNA damage and premature senescence in Fasmut and Bim−/− mice. Moreover, a sublethal dose of radiation exposure caused more severe DNA damage, reduced survival rate, and loss of body weight in Fasmut mice than in wild‐type mice, which can be recovered by the infusion of MSC‐apoVs. Mechanistically, we showed that apoptosis can assemble multiple nuclear DNA repair enzymes, such as the full‐length PARP1, into 16,000 g apoVs. These DNA repair components are directly transferred by 16,000 g apoVs to recipient cells, leading to the rescue of DNA damage and elimination of senescent cells. Finally, we showed that embryonic stem cell‐derived 16,000 g apoVs have superior DNA repair capacity due to containing a high level of nuclear DNA repair enzymes to rescue lethal dose‐irradiated mice. This study uncovers a previously unknown role of 16,000 g apoVs in safeguarding tissues from DNA damage and demonstrates a strategy for using stem cell‐derived apoVs to ameliorate irradiation‐induced DNA damage.