bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spectroscopic Characterization of Thermal Methane Activation by Lewis‐Acid‐Base Pair in a Gas‐Phase Metal Nitride Anion Ta2N3−
Authors: Li Zi‐Yu , Liu Qing‐Yu , He Sheng‐Gui
Published: February 2024

Activation and transformation of methane is one of the “holy grails” in catalysis. Understanding the nature of active sites and mechanistic details via spectroscopic characterization of the reactive sites and key intermediates is of great challenge but crucial for the development of novel strategies for methane transformation. Herein, by employing photoelectron velocity‐map imaging (PEVMI) spectroscopy in conjunction with quantum chemistry calculations, the Lewis acid‐base pair (LABP) of [Taδ+−Nδ−] unit in Ta2N3− acting as an active center to accomplish the heterolytic cleavage of C−H bond in CH4 has been confirmed by direct characterization of the reactant ion Ta2N3− and the CH4‐adduct intermediate Ta2N3CH4−. Two active vibrational modes for the reactant (Ta2N3−) and four active vibrational modes for the intermediate (Ta2N3CH4−) were observed from the vibrationally resolved PEVMI spectra, which unequivocally determined the structure of Ta2N3− and Ta2N3CH4−. Upon heating, the LABP intermediate (Ta2N3CH4−) containing the NH and Ta−CH3 unit can undergo the processes of C−N coupling and dehydrogenation to form the product with an adsorbed HCN molecule.
Amino Acid Modified Hyper‐Cross‐Linked Polymer Enabling High‐efficient Photocatalytic Amines Oxidation Coupled with H2O2 Production
Authors: Gao Wei , Fu Yuyang , Nie Xinhao , Zhao Ying , Sun Cuihong , Shang Ningzhao , Cheng Xiang , Gao Shutao , Tian Bin , Wang Chun
Published: February 2024

The simultaneous production of imine and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) via photocatalytic aerobic amine oxidation is a bright way to obtain value added products, however, rapid recombination of photogenerated charge leads to low conversion efficiency and selectivity. Herein, a metal‐free amino acid modified hyper‐cross‐linked polymer (H3LP‐HCPs) photocatalyst was synthesized for photocatalytic amines oxidation by regulating the ratio of L‐phenylalanine (L‐Phe) and hexaphenylbenzene (Hex). The results showed that the H3LP‐HCPs photocatalyst with 1 : 3 molar ratio of L‐Phe and Hex achieves close to 100 % conversion efficiency and 100 % selectivity toward benzylamine oxidation under 455 nm blue LED lamp irradiation. Furthermore, a high yield of H2O2 (9.2 mmol ⋅ gcat−1 ⋅ h−1) was synchronously obtained in benzylamine oxidation. Experiments and time‐dependent density functional theory calculation results revealed that the N‐functional groups in H3LP‐HCPs photocatalyst not only remarkably broadens light‐response range, but also facilitates electrons transfer from L‐Phe to the Hex, thus accelerating photogenerated charge separation efficiency and the formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS).
Cytomorphology of metastatic dedifferentiated/undifferentiated melanoma to the gallbladder: A case report and review of literature
Authors: Hegazy Shaymaa , Kamaluddin Zarine , Naous Rana
Published: February 2024

Dedifferentiated/undifferentiated melanoma (DM/UM) is a distinct subtype of malignant melanoma that tends to lose all melanocytic markers of differentiation. DM/UM pose major diagnostic challenges as they could be easily confused with UM sarcoma or carcinoma, thus necessitating the use of molecular studies such as Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) for detecting melanoma‐compatible mutations to confirm such diagnosis. The capability of performing NGS molecular studies on small biopsy material with confirmation of adequacy via rapid on‐site evaluation (ROSE) has tremendous value in diagnosing DM/UM. Herein, we present the first reported case of metastatic DM/UM to the gall bladder arising in a 60‐year‐old female with a prior history of right knee melanoma. We also shed light on the cytomorphology of DM/UM, review the literature on such a challenging entity, and emphasize the crucial role of molecular testing in their diagnosis.
Quantifying droplet–solid friction using an atomic force microscope
Authors: Koh Xue Qi , Thenarianto Calvin , Jokinen Ville , Daniel Dan
Published: February 2024

Controlling the wetting and spreading of microdroplets is key to technologies such as microfluidics, ink‐jet printing, and surface coating. Contact angle goniometry is commonly used to characterize surface wetting by droplets, but the technique is ill‐suited for high contact angles close to . Here, we attach a micrometric‐sized droplet to an atomic force microscope cantilever to directly quantify droplet–solid friction on different surfaces (superhydrophobic and underwater superoleophobic) with sub‐nanonewton force resolutions. We demonstrate the versatility of our approach by performing friction measurements using different liquids (water and oil droplets) and under different ambient environments (in air and underwater). Finally, we show that underwater superoleophobic surfaces can be qualitatively different from superhydrophobic surfaces: droplet–solid friction is highly sensitive to droplet speeds for the former but not for the latter surface.
A meta‐analysis reveals increases in soil organic carbon following the restoration and recovery of croplands in Southwest China
Authors: Guo Zihao , Zhang Shuting , Zhang Lichen , Xiang Yangzhou , Wu Jianping
Published: February 2024

In China, the Grain for Green Program (GGP) is an ambitious project to convert croplands into natural vegetation, but exactly how changes in vegetation translate into changes in soil organic carbon remains less clear. Here we conducted a meta‐analysis using 734 observations to explore the effects of land recovery on soil organic carbon and nutrients in four provinces in Southwest China. Following GGP, the soil organic carbon content (SOCc) and soil organic carbon stock (SOCs) increased by 33.73% and 22.39%, respectively, compared with the surrounding croplands. Similarly, soil nitrogen increased, while phosphorus decreased. Outcomes were heterogeneous, but depended on variations in soil and environmental characteristics. Both the regional land use and cover change indicated by the landscape type transfer matrix and net primary production from 2000 to 2020 further confirmed that the GGP promoted the forest area and regional mean net primary production. Our findings suggest that the GGP could enhance soil and vegetation carbon sequestration in Southwest China and help to develop a carbon‐neutral strategy.
Effects of overgrazing on the functional diversity of rodents in desert areas
Authors: Zhu Na , Li Xin , Wu Xiaodong , Li Linlin , Yang Suwen , Fu Heping , Yuan Shuai
Published: February 2024

Environmental stressors and disturbances can cause changes in an ecosystem's community structure, which can be reflected in its functional diversity. As grazing intensity increases, this causes changes in the environment that inevitably lead to changes in the community structure, which can especially affect rodents due to their sensitivity to the environment. The effects of grazing prohibition and overgrazing on the functional diversity of desert rodent communities in Alxa were studied in April, July, and October of 2018–2020. The trap‐day method was used to study rodent communities in disturbed habitats. Five functional traits were selected and quantified: nutrition, life history, physiology, morphology, and activity rhythm. The results showed that: (1) The species composition of rodent communities in the Alxa Desert in spring and autumn was significantly correlated with the functional traits of the hibernation, reproductive cycle, and feeding habits. The species composition in the summer was only significantly correlated with the functional traits of reproductive cycle and diet. (2) The effects of overgrazing on the functional diversity of rodents in desert areas have significant temporal and spatial characteristics. (3) In spring and summer, overgrazing made the Functional Richness index of the rodent community lower than that of areas where grazing is prohibited, but the Functional Evenness index was higher than that of grazing‐prohibition areas. In autumn, overgrazing increased the Functional Richness index of the rodent community and decreased the Functional Evenness index. The Functional Divergence index was higher in overgrazing areas than in grazing‐prohibited ones. These results suggest that, in spring and summer, overgrazing reduced the ecological space utilization ability of rodent communities; however, the impact on the degree of utilization of community resources is more comprehensive. In autumn, overgrazing increases the ability of rodent communities to use ecological space but reduces resource efficiency. Overgrazing makes the niche differentiation of rodent communities higher, the degree of overlap lower, and the competition between species weaker. Therefore, overgrazing will affect the functional diversity of the community through the utilization of ecological space, resource utilization, interspecific competition, and niche.
Identification and genetic characterization of a novel species of Choleoeimeria Schneider, 1875 from a captive‐bred bilby (Thylacomyidae; Macrotis lagotis) (Reid, 1837) in Western Australia
Authors: Brice Belinda , Gao Huimin , Berto Bruno P. , Thomas Gwyneth , Elloit Aileen , Zahedi Alireza
Published: February 2024

A novel Eimeria sp. from a captive‐bred bilby (Macrotis lagotis Reid, 1837) has been identified in Western Australia. The bilby was bred at the Kanyana Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre, Perth, as part of the National Bilby Recovery Plan. Oocysts (n = 31) irregular blunt ellipsoidal, 17–18 × 11–12 (17.2 × 11.3); length/width (L/W) ratio 1.4–1.5 (1.5). Wall bi‐layered, 0.8–1.0 (0.9) thick, outer layer smooth, c.2/3 of total thickness. Micropyle barely discernible. Oocyst residuum is absent, but 2–3 small polar granules are present. Sporocysts (n = 31) ovoidal, 7–8 × 5–6 (7.8 × 5.7); L/W ratio 1.3–1.4 (1.4). Stieda, sub‐Stieda and para‐Stieda bodies absent or indiscernible; sporocyst residuum present, usually as an irregular body consisting of numerous granules that appear to be membrane‐bound or sometimes diffuse among sporozoites. Sporozoites vermiform with a robust refractile body. Further molecular characterization was conducted on the sporulated oocysts. At the 18S locus, it sat in a large clade of the phylogenetic tree with two isolates of Eimeria angustus from quendas (Isoodon obesulus Shaw, 1797) and the Choleoeimeria spp. It shared the highest identity with E. angustus (KU248093) at 98.84%; at the COI gene locus, it was unique and most closely related to Choleoeimeria taggarti, which is hosted by another species of marsupial, the yellow‐footed antechinus (Antechinus flavipes flavipes), with 90.58% genetic similarity. Based on morphological and molecular data, this isolate is a new species and named as Choleoeimeria yangi n. sp.
Limited associations between MHC diversity and reproductive success in a bird species with biparental care
Authors: Ferreira Diana , San‐Jose Luis M. , Roulin Alexandre , Gaigher Arnaud , Fumagalli Luca
Published: February 2024

The selective pressure from pathogens on individuals can have direct consequences on reproduction. Genes from the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) are central to the vertebrate adaptive immune system and pathogen resistance. In species with biparental care, each sex has distinct reproductive roles and levels of investment, and due to a trade‐off with immunity, one can expect different selective regimes acting upon the MHC of each parent. Here, we addressed whether couples combine each other's variation at MHC loci to increase their breeding success. Specifically, we used a 23‐year dataset from a barn owl population (Tyto alba) to understand how MHC class Iα and IIβ functional divergence and supertypes of each parent were associated with clutch size and fledging success. We did not detect associations between MHC diversity and supertypes with the clutch size or with the fledging success. In addition, to understand the relative contribution from the MHC of the genetic parents and the social parents, we analyzed the fledging success using only a cross‐fostered dataset. We found several associations of weak‐to‐moderate effect sizes between the father's MHC and fledging success: (i) lower MHC‐Iα divergence in the genetic father increases fledging success, which might improve paternal care during incubation, and (ii) one and two MHC‐IIβ DAB2 supertypes in the social father decrease and increase, respectively, fledging success, which may affect the paternal care after hatching. Furthermore, fledging success increased when both parents did not carry MHC‐IIβ DAB1 supertype 2, which could suggest conditional effects of this supertype. Although our study relied on a substantial dataset, we showed that the associations between MHC diversity and reproductive success remain scarce and of complex interpretation in the barn owl. Moreover, our results highlighted the need to incorporate more than one proxy of reproductive success and several MHC classes to capture more complex associations.
Species richness of Orthoptera declines with elevation while elevational range of individual species peaks at mid elevation
Authors: Thomas Jen , Segar Simon T. , Cherrill Andrew J.
Published: February 2024

Species richness has been shown to decrease, and elevational range increase (the Rapoport effect), with elevation as a consequence of biotic and abiotic factors, but patterns are inconsistent across taxonomic groups. Despite being an important indicator taxon and a component of local communities, Orthoptera distributions at higher elevations in Europe remain unclear. We investigated the relationship of Orthoptera species richness and elevational range with elevation in the Pyrenees mountains, Europe. We conducted sweepnetting surveys supplemented by hand‐sampling, at 28 sites stratified by elevation, across three study areas. Using generalised linear models, we found that species richness declined with elevation. Elevation was an important predictor of species richness, but sampling effort and vegetation structure (height and cover) also contributed to estimates of species richness. Using a nonlinear regression to model the elevational range of species over the elevational gradient, we did not observe a Rapoport effect, with elevational range peaking at mid‐elevation instead. Smaller elevational ranges of species found at high elevations may be due to a combination of sampling over a restricted elevational range and the presence of specialist high‐elevation species. We argue that our findings are useful for understanding species distributions with elevation at the interface between local and regional scales. Clarifying the biotic and abiotic predictors of species distribution is important for informing conservation efforts and predicting consequences of climate change.
Response to MHC‐based olfactory cues in a mate choice context in two species of darter (Percidae: Etheostoma)
Authors: Million Kara M. , Proffit Melissa R. , Reese Sierra J.
Published: February 2024

Mate choice is hypothesized to play an important role in maintaining high diversity at major histocompatibility complex (MHC) genes in vertebrates. Many studies have revealed that females across taxa prefer the scent of males with MHC genotypes different to their own. In this study we tested the “opposites‐attract” hypothesis in two species of darter with known differences in female criteria used in mate choice: in the fantail darters (a paternal‐care species), females prefer males with visual traits related to nest guarding and egg tending, while in rainbow darters (not a paternal‐care species) female mate choice criteria are unknown. In dichotomous mate‐choice trials, we presented females of both species with the scents of conspecific males with MHC class IIb genotypes that were either similar or dissimilar to that of the focal female. We evaluated the proportion of time each female spent with each male and calculated the average strength of female preference for both species. Female fantail darters demonstrated a preference for the scent of males with similar (rather than dissimilar) MHC genotypes, but this result was not statistically significant. Rainbow darter females showed no preference for the scent of males with similar or dissimilar MHC genotypes. Our results do not support the “opposites‐attract” hypothesis in darters.
Examining the associations between a generalist feeder and a highly toxic host
Authors: Kropelin Grace , Scott Chialvo Clare H.
Published: February 2024

Understanding the often antagonistic plant–herbivore interactions and how host defenses can influence herbivore dietary breadth is an area of ongoing study in ecology and evolutionary biology. Typically, host plants/fungi that produce highly noxious chemical defenses are only fed on by specialists. We know very little about generalist species that can feed and develop on a noxious host. One such example of generalists feeding on toxic host occurs in the mushroom‐feeding Drosophila found in the immigrans‐tripunctata radiation. Although these species are classified as generalists, their acceptable hosts include deadly Amanita species. In this study, we used behavioral assays to assess associations between one mushroom‐feeding species, Drosophila guttifera, and the deadly Amanita phalloides. We conducted feeding assays to confirm the presence of cyclopeptide toxin tolerance. We then completed host preference assays in female flies and larvae and did not find a preference for toxic mushrooms in either. Finally, we assessed the effect of competition on oviposition preference. We found that the presence of a competitor's eggs on the preferred host was associated with the flies increasing the number of eggs laid on the toxic mushrooms. Our results highlight how access to a low competition host resource may help to maintain associations between a generalist species and a highly toxic host.
Impact of the operative technique on mid‐ and long‐term results following paediatric heart transplantation
Authors: Rosenthal L. Lily , Grinninger Carola , Pozza Robert Dalla , Fischer Marcus , Zimmerling Linda , Ulrich Sarah M. , Kari Fabian A. , Haas Nikolaus A. , Michel Sebastian , Hörer Jürgen , Hagl Christian
Published: February 2024

Aims

The aim of this study is to evaluate and compare the impact of the bicaval technique versus the biatrial technique (by Lower and Shumway) in paediatric heart transplant patients. Only a few studies investigate this matter regarding the long‐term outcome after paediatric heart transplantation. We compared the two surgical methods regarding survival, the necessity of pacemaker implantation.

Methods and results

All 134 patients (aged <18 years) – (group‐1) biatrial (n = 84), versus (group‐2) bicaval (n = 50), who underwent heart transplantation between October 1988 and December 2021, were analysed. Freedom from events were estimated using the Kaplan–Meier method. Potential differences were analysed using the log rank test and Cox proportional hazard models. Mean ± standard deviation: Bypass time (per minutes) was higher in the group 1 as compared with group 2 (P = 0.050). Survival was not significantly different (P = 0.604) in either groups. Eighteen patients required permanent pacemaker implantation in the group 1 and only one patient required it in the group 2 (P = 0.001).

Conclusions

Paediatric heart transplantation using bicaval technique results similar long‐term survival compared with the biatrial technique. The incidence of atrial rhythm disorders was significantly higher in the biatrial group, requiring a higher frequency of pacemaker implantation in this group. As a results, the bicaval technique has replaced the biatrial technique in our centre.
CAN Interceded Oxidative Coupling of β‐Dicarbonyl Compounds to 2‐Aryl/Heteroarylchromenes: A Regio‐ and Diastereoselective Synthesis of Tetrahydro‐benzofuro[3,2‐c]chromenones
Authors: Panja Sayanwita , Dhurey Arun , Maiti Gourhari , Pramanik Animesh
Published: February 2024

A promising and useful method has been accomplished for regio‐ and diastereoselective synthesis of tetrahydro‐benzofuro[3,2‐c]chromenones through ceric(IV) ammonium nitrate (CAN) mediated oxidative coupling of cyclic/acyclic 1,3‐dicarbonyl compounds to 2‐aryl/heteroarylchromenes followed by a base assisted cyclization. The significant features of the method encircle easy accessibility of the starting materials, high air stability and low toxicity of oxidant CAN, high product yield, operationally simple and eco‐friendly reaction conditions. Trapping of a radical intermediate with radical scavenger TEMPO (detected by LC–MS) from the reaction mixture proved that the oxidative coupling is a radical mediated process.
Systematic review and co‐ordinate based meta‐analysis to summarize the utilization of functional brain imaging in conjunction with human models of peripheral and central sensitization
Authors: Clarke Sophie , Rogers Richard , Wanigasekera Vishvarani , Fardo Francesca , Pia Hossein , Nochi Zahra , Macian Nicolas , Leray Vincent , Finnerup Nanna Brix , Pickering Gisèle , Mouraux André , Truini Andrea , Treede Rolf‐Detlef , Garcia‐Larrea Luis , Tracey Irene
Published: February 2024

Background and Objective

Functional magnetic resonance imaging, in conjunction with models of peripheral and/or central sensitization, has been used to assess analgesic efficacy in healthy humans. This review aims to summarize the use of these techniques to characterize brain mechanisms of hyperalgesia/allodynia and to evaluate the efficacy of analgesics.

Databases and Data Treatment

Searches were performed (PubMed‐Medline, Cochrane, Web of Science and Clinicaltrials.gov) to identify and review studies. A co‐ordinate based meta‐analysis (CBMA) was conducted to quantify neural activity that was reported across multiple independent studies in the hyperalgesic condition compared to control, using GingerALE software.

Results

Of 217 publications, 30 studies met the inclusion criteria. They studied nine different models of hyperalgesia/allodynia assessed in the primary (14) or secondary hyperalgesia zone (16). Twenty‐three studies focused on neural correlates of hyperalgesic conditions and showed consistent changes in the somatosensory cortex, prefrontal cortices, insular cortex, anterior cingulate cortex, thalamus and brainstem. The CBMA on 12 studies that reported activation coordinates for a contrast comparing the hyperalgesic state to control produced six activation clusters (significant at false discovery rate of 0.05) with more peaks for secondary (17.7) than primary zones (7.3). Seven studies showed modulation of brain activity by analgesics in five of the clusters but also in four additional regions.

Conclusions

This meta‐analysis revealed substantial but incomplete overlap between brain areas related to neural mechanisms of hyperalgesia and those reflecting the efficacy of analgesic drugs. Studies testing in the secondary zone were more sensitive to evaluate analgesic efficacy on central sensitization at brainstem or thalamocortical levels.

Significance

Experimental pain models that provide a surrogate for features of pathological pain conditions in healthy humans and functional imaging techniques are both highly valuable research tools. This review shows that when used together, they provide a wealth of information about brain activity during pain states and analgesia. These tools are promising candidates to help bridge the gap between animal and human studies, to improve translatability and provide opportunities for identification of new targets for back‐translation to animal studies.
The effect of composite materials interfacial discontinuities on the impact safety of future composite rail vehicles
Authors: Xue Xiangdong , Robinson Mark , Zhang Wei
Published: February 2024

In contrast to single‐phase materials the manufacturing process of composites creates multiscale interfaces among constituent materials and between laminar multilayers. Targeting the interfaces in these composite structures, this paper presents a perspective study on the impact safety of potential future composite rail vehicles. The aim is to conceptually explore the key role of interfacial discontinuities of composite material structures as they are a critical issue affecting the impact performance of future composite rail vehicles. Following a theoretical description, the issues are addressed in two parts. First, composite materials are characteristically analyzed from the perspective of their interfacial discontinuities within the materials and between the laminate multilayers to identify their influence. Second, the structural conditions required for crashworthiness are determined in relation to the dual requirements of global stability and local deformability for efficient energy absorption. The key findings are: (1) The interfacial discontinuities of the material phases and the designed structural assemblies need to be tailored for crashworthiness performance and (2) Global stability and locally deformability are the key dual requirements for the energy absorbing progressive deformations that are essential for application of composite for crashworthiness of rail vehicles. The research conceptually explores a key issue of the impact mechanics of composite structures from the perspective of impact safety of composite rail vehicles.
Epithelioid hemangioendothelioma (EHE) with WWTR1::TFE3 gene fusion, a novel fusion variant
Authors: Li Shuo , Dermawan Josephine K. , Seavey Caleb N. , Ma Shuang , Antonescu Cristina R. , Rubin Brian P.
Published: February 2024

Epithelioid hemangioendothelioma (EHE) is a rare endothelial sarcoma associated with a high incidence of metastases and for which there are no standard treatment options. Based on disease‐defining mutations, most EHEs are classified into two subtypes: WWTR1::CAMTA1‐fused EHE or YAP1::TFE3‐fused EHE. However, rare non‐canonical fusions have been identified in clinical samples of EHE cases and are challenging to classify. In this study, we report the identification of a novel WWTR1::TFE3 fusion variant in an EHE patient using targeted RNA sequencing. Histologically, the tumor exhibited hybrid morphological characteristics between WWTR1::CAMTA1‐fused EHE and YAP1::TFE3‐fused EHE. In addition to the driver fusion, there were six additional secondary mutations identified, including a loss‐of‐function FANCA mutation. Furthermore, in vitro studies were conducted to investigate the tumorigenic function of the WWTR1::TFE3 fusion protein in NIH3T3 cells and demonstrated that WWTR1::TFE3 promotes colony formation in soft agar. Finally, as the wild‐type WWTR1 protein relies on binding the TEAD family of transcription factors to affect gene transcription, mutation of the WWTR1 domain of the fusion protein to inhibit such binding abrogates the transformative effect of WWTR1::TFE3. Overall, we describe a novel gene fusion in EHE with a hybrid histological appearance between the two major genetic subtypes of EHE. Further cases of this very rare subtype of EHE will need to be identified to fully elucidate the clinical and pathological characteristics of this unusual subtype of EHE.
Robust use of phenotypic heterogeneity at drug target genes for mechanistic insights: Application of cis‐multivariable Mendelian randomization to GLP1R gene region
Authors: Patel Ashish , Gill Dipender , Shungin Dmitry , Mantzoros Christos S. , Knudsen Lotte Bjerre , Bowden Jack , Burgess Stephen
Published: February 2024

Phenotypic heterogeneity at genomic loci encoding drug targets can be exploited by multivariable Mendelian randomization to provide insight into the pathways by which pharmacological interventions may affect disease risk. However, statistical inference in such investigations may be poor if overdispersion heterogeneity in measured genetic associations is unaccounted for. In this work, we first develop conditional F statistics for dimension‐reduced genetic associations that enable more accurate measurement of phenotypic heterogeneity. We then develop a novel extension for two‐sample multivariable Mendelian randomization that accounts for overdispersion heterogeneity in dimension‐reduced genetic associations. Our empirical focus is to use genetic variants in the GLP1R gene region to understand the mechanism by which GLP1R agonism affects coronary artery disease (CAD) risk. Colocalization analyses indicate that distinct variants in the GLP1R gene region are associated with body mass index and type 2 diabetes (T2D). Multivariable Mendelian randomization analyses that were corrected for overdispersion heterogeneity suggest that bodyweight lowering rather than T2D liability lowering effects of GLP1R agonism are more likely contributing to reduced CAD risk. Tissue‐specific analyses prioritized brain tissue as the most likely to be relevant for CAD risk, of the tissues considered. We hope the multivariable Mendelian randomization approach illustrated here is widely applicable to better understand mechanisms linking drug targets to diseases outcomes, and hence to guide drug development efforts.
Cortical mapping of callosal connections in healthy young adults
Authors: Xiong Yirong , Yang Liyuan , Wang Changtong , Zhao Chenxi , Luo Junhao , Wu Di , Ouyang Yiping , Thiebaut de Schotten Michel , Gong Gaolang
Published: February 2024

The corpus callosum (CC) is the principal white matter bundle supporting communication between the two brain hemispheres. Despite its importance, a comprehensive mapping of callosal connections is still lacking. Here, we constructed the first bidirectional population‐based callosal connectional atlas between the midsagittal section of the CC and the cerebral cortex of the human brain by means of diffusion‐weighted imaging tractography. The estimated connectional topographic maps within this atlas have the most fine‐grained spatial resolution, demonstrate histological validity, and were reproducible in two independent samples. This new resource, a complete and comprehensive atlas, will facilitate the investigation of interhemispheric communication and come with a user‐friendly companion online tool (CCmapping) for easy access and visualization of the atlas.
Development of a novel senescence‐related gene signature to predict clinical outcomes, immune landscape, and chemotherapeutic sensitivity in oral squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Wang An , Xiao Na , Wang Hong , Yao Qin , Li Jin , Wu Yaping , Ge Han , Diao Pengfei
Published: February 2024

Background

Cellular senescence significantly associates with tumor initiation, progression, and therapeutic response across multiple cancers. Here, we sought to develop a novel senescence‐related genes (SRGs)‐derived signature for oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) prognostication and therapeutic response prediction.

Methods

OSCC‐specific SRG prognostic signature was established with univariate Cox regression, Kaplan–Meier survival, and LASSO‐penalized multivariate Cox regression analyses. A SRG nomogram integrating this signature and selected clinicopathological parameters were constructed by multivariate Cox regression. SiRNA‐mediated gene knockdown was exploited to validate its function in vitro. The utilities of SRG signature in predicting immune status and chemotherapeutic sensitivities were analyzed.

Results

The prognostic performance of SRG signature/nomogram was satisfactory in multiple independent cohorts. CDK1 knockdown induced senescence phenotype in vitro. Moreover, SRG signature scores negatively correlated with tumor‐infiltrating immune cells and associated with multiple chemotherapeutic drug sensitivities.

Conclusions

Our results established SRG‐derived signature/nomogram as powerful predictors for prognosis and chemotherapeutic response for OSCC.
A dynamic system‐based model for analyzing human factors: Enhanced AcciMap with spherical fuzzy dynamic Bayesian network approach
Authors: Tohidizadeh Kosar , Zarei Esmaeil , Ghalenoei Mehran , Yazdi Mohammad , Kolivand Kamran
Published: February 2024

In today's interconnected global economy, maritime trade is a pillar of prosperity, yet maritime accidents loom as a formidable challenge. The intricate nature of these accidents, coupled with rapid technological advancements, necessitates the evolution of systematic analysis methods. Conventional systemic approaches, while valuable, struggle to encapsulate the intricate web of mutual and dynamic dependencies inherent in these incidents. Furthermore, the call for more quantitative support in decision‐making and the ability to account for emergent factors has become increasingly imperative. This study aims to analyze maritime accidents by introducing a quantitative and dynamic model. The endeavour begins with establishing an extended Accident Map‐based model, a robust framework that unveils a sophisticated accident causation model. This preliminary action establishes the groundwork for integrating an innovative Spherical Fuzzy Set, navigating the complex landscape of knowledge acquisition. The subsequent phase charts a transformative course by mapping the model onto a dynamic Bayesian Network to conduct a forward and backward analysis. The essence of the model lies in its dynamic nature, allowing for real‐time updates that reflect the evolving maritime accidents risk factors. The approach is validated through a partial benchmark exercise, a reality check, an independent peer review, and a sensitivity analysis. The model can explore emerging contributing factors, reduce uncertainty, and consider relationships between factors that yield designing more effective safety measures.
Factors disrupting the continuity of care for patients with chronic disease during the pandemics: A systematic review
Authors: Ghanbari‐Jahromi Mohadeseh , Kharazmi Erfan , Bastani Peivand , Shams Mesbah , Marzaleh Milad Ahmadi , Amin Bahrami Mohammad
Published: February 2024

Background and Aims

Continuous routine care is necessary to prevent long‐term complications of chronic diseases and improve patients' health conditions. This review study was conducted to determine the factors disrupting continuity of care for patients with chronic diseases during the pandemic.

Methods

All original articles published on factors disrupting continuity of care for patients with chronic disease during a pandemic between December 2019 and June 28, 2023, in PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and ProQuest databases were searched. Selection of articles, data extraction, and qualitative evaluation of articles (through STROBE and COREQ checklist) were done by two researchers separately. Data graphing form was used to extract the data of each study and then the data were classified by thematic analysis method.

Results

Out of 1708 articles reviewed from the databases, 22 were included. The factors disrupting the continuity of care for patients with chronic diseases during the epidemics were classified into two main categories: patient‐side factors and health system‐side factors. Patient‐side factors including psychological, individual and social, disease‐related, and health system‐side factors including provider access, health system institutional, and infrastructural and financial problems were among the subcategories disrupting the continuity of care for patients with chronic diseases during the pandemic. Based on the studies, psychological factors and access to the provider were among the most frequent factors affecting the continuity of care for patients with chronic diseases in the pandemic.

Conclusion

Considering the factors disrupting the continuity of care and applying appropriate interventions based on them, can guarantee the continuity of providing services to chronic patients in health crises.
Environmental pollution and health in Chilean older adults: Impact on quality of life and functional autonomy
Authors: Huerta Ojeda Álvaro , Jofré‐Saldía Emilio , Barahona‐Fuentes Guillermo , Yeomans‐Cabrera María‐Mercedes , Bravo Maximiliano
Published: February 2024

Background and Aims

Due to increased urbanization and industry, environmental pollution is a serious public health concern. Globally, the quality of life is particularly lowered by exposure to high amounts of particulate matter (PM). Chile has five industrial zones with high pollution levels, called “sacrifice zones.” However, the effect of polluted air on the quality of life and functional autonomy (FA) of older people living in industrial zones with high pollution levels is unknown. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the quality of life and FA differences between Chilean older women (OW) living in areas with lower and higher PM levels.

Materials and Methods

Seventy‐two OW volunteered for this study. The sample was divided into Zone 1 (PM2.5 ≤ 15 µg/m3, n = 36) and Zone 2 (PM2.5 > 15 µg/m3, n = 36). The variables were quality of life—assessed through the SF‐36v2.0 questionnaire, and FA—assessed through the GDLAM protocols. Differences between zones were tested by Student's t‐test and Mann–Whitney test, both for independent samples (p < 0.05).

Results

All eight dimensions of quality of life were lower in Zone 2, of which the role emotional (RE) showed significant differences between zones (p < 0.05). Performance on the GDLAM protocols and the FA index were lower in Zone 2 (p ˃ 0.05).

Conclusion

OW in Zone 2 showed lower quality of life and FA. PM could affect the older population's physical and mental health and, therefore, the quality of life.
Investigating medical student's attitudes about road accident risks: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Shahraki‐Sanavi Fariba , Tabatabaei Seyed Mohammad Nasiraldin
Published: February 2024

Background and Aims

Given that unsafe human actions are the main cause of accidents, it is essential to comprehend the attitudes of medical students toward the risks of road accidents, particularly given their potential influence as future healthcare professionals. Therefore, this study was carried out to investigate the attitudes of medical students towards road accidents.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study was conducted on 300 Zahedan University of Medical Sciences students in 2021 as available sampling. The required information was collected using a researcher‐made questionnaire with a content validity ratio of 0.9, a content validity index of 0.9–0.8, and a reliability (α) of 0.79, which was presented online in the university systems. Statistical analysis was done using SPSS 23 software, data description was done as frequency and percentage, and analytical analysis was done with the χ2 test.

Results

The average age of the participants was 21.7 (4.2) years; 45.7% of the participants were male and 11.3% were married; 79.7% had less than 300 km of driving experience; 76% had less than 3 years since receiving their license; 14% stated that they drive faster than others; 18.3% reported a history of fines; and 28.3% reported an accident history. The most incorrect attitudes of students regarding low‐risk using mobile phones (86%), text sending (84.3%), eating and drinking while driving (74.6%), driving after consuming alcohol or drugs (73%), and driving when tired and sleepy (85.4%) were reported.

Conclusion

Based on the results, it is suggested to plan to correct wrong attitudes, especially among young and educated drivers, through education and culture, so that we can move in the direction of reducing accidents.
Moralities, cultural fit and life satisfaction
Authors: Karabatı Serdar
Published: February 2024

The study aims to contribute to the literature by investigating the relationships among moralities, cultural fit and life satisfaction. Data are drawn from a representative sample of Türkiye, a country with a permanent record of low well‐being scores and indications of polarisation over moral values. Consistent with the hypotheses, binding morality is found to have a strong overall positive effect on life satisfaction, both directly and indirectly via cultural fit. Additionally, results substantiate the prediction that individualising morality will be associated with diminished life satisfaction. Nonetheless, analyses regarding cultural fit exhibit mixed results and should be interpreted with caution. Findings are discussed within the context of the literature and in relation to sociopolitical leanings currently observed in Türkiye.
Polymerized cyclodextrin microparticles for sustained antibiotic delivery in lung infections
Authors: Bonfield Tracey L. , Zuckerman Sean T. , Sutton Morgan T. , Korley Julius N. , von Recum Horst A.
Published: February 2024

Pulmonary infections complicate chronic lung diseases requiring attention to both the pathophysiology and complexity associated with infection management. Patients with cystic fibrosis (CF) struggle with continuous bouts of pulmonary infections, contributing to lung destruction and eventual mortality. Additionally, CF patients struggle with airways that are highly viscous, with accumulated mucus creating optimal environments for bacteria colonization. The unique physiology and altered airway environment provide an ideal niche for bacteria to change their phenotype often becoming resistant to current treatments. Colonization with multiple pathogens at the same time further complicate treatment algorithms, requiring drug combinations that can challenge CF patient tolerance to treatment. The goal of this research initiative was to explore the utilization of a microparticle antibiotic delivery system, which could provide localized and sustained antibiotic dosing. The outcome of this work demonstrates the feasibility of providing efficient localized delivery of antibiotics to manage infection using both preclinical in vitro and in vivo CF infection models. The studies outlined in this manuscript demonstrate the proof‐of‐concept and unique capacity of polymerized cyclodextrin microparticles to provide site‐directed management of pulmonary infections.
Thiocarbamoyl sulfamic acid‐derived mesoporous silica: a comprehensive study on selective adsorption of cobalt and lithium from spent lithium‐ion batteries
Authors: Younis Huda M
Published: February 2024

BACKGROUND

The recycling of spent lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) is crucial for resource conservation and environmental sustainability, particularly due to the valuable metals they contain, such as cobalt and lithium. This study focuses on developing an ion‐exchange method for cobalt recovery from waste LIB solutions, using a mesoporous silica derivative of carbamoyl sulfamic acid (PST‐SA) as the adsorbent.

RESULTS

The batch method for adsorption experiments identified the most effective conditions: a pH of 8, 0.08 g PST‐SA, and a shaking time of 60 min, at room temperature. These experiments demonstrated a remarkable cobalt uptake capacity of 270.70 mg g−1, highlighting PST‐SA's exceptional adsorption capabilities. Additionally, thermodynamic studies revealed the adsorption process to be both endothermic and spontaneous, enhancing our understanding of its chemically reactive mechanisms.

CONCLUSIONS

The practical application of PST‐SA, particularly when processing spent LIBs, showcases its real‐world utility. The efficient separation of cobaltous oxalate and lithium phosphate into pure forms emphasizes PST‐SA's potential in recycling and resource recovery. Given its cost‐effectiveness and strong adsorption capacity, PST‐SA stands out as an excellent solution for the removal of Co(II) from discarded LIBs, promoting sustainable material recovery practices. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Influence of film thickness on structural, optical, and electrical properties of sputtered nickel oxide thin films
Authors: Rezaee Sahar , Korpi Alireza Grayeli , Karimi Maryam , Jurečka Stanislav , Arman Ali , Luna Carlos , Ţălu Ştefan
Published: February 2024

Utilizing radio frequency magnetron sputtering, we successfully fabricated nickel oxide thin films with different thickness (from 80 to 270 nm), and conducted an in‐depth examination of their structural, morphological, optical, and electrical properties. The crystal structure and surface roughness were determined using x‐ray diffraction (XRD) and atomic force microscopy (AFM), respectively. The XRD analyses showed that the films were composed of cubic nickel oxide, exhibiting a notable orientation along the (200) direction. This crystal texture partially increased when the film thickness reached 270 nm. In addition, a direct correlation between film thickness and crystallite size was observed, with the latter increasing as the former did. AFM analysis provided insights into the surface morphology, revealing metrics like the bearing area, 3D surfaces intersections, and statistical properties of surface height. These insights underscore the relationship between film thickness and surface properties, which in turn influence the overall electrical, and prominently, optical properties of the films. Employing transmittance UV–visible spectroscopy, we characterized the optical behavior of these films, noting a proportional increase in refractive index with film thickness. Additionally, resistivity was observed to increase concomitantly with film thickness. In conclusion, the deposition process's film thickness acts as a pivotal parameter for fine‐tuning the structural, morphological, and optical properties of nickel oxide thin films. This knowledge paves the way for optimizing nickel oxide‐based devices across various applications.

Research Highlights

We synthesized and characterized of p‐type semiconducting NiO thin films sputtered on substrates by using RF magnetron sputtering with different thickness.

Advanced crystalline structures and fractal features extracted from XRD and AFM analysis.

 The 2D and 3D surface analysis of the samples indicates a complex structure with an imperfect self‐similarity that suggests a multifractal structure.

We represented graphically the relative representation of higher geometric objects in the AFM image.

We attributed the optical and electrical properties of the samples to the crystallite size, and the concurrent reduction in oxygen vacancies and crystalline defects within the films.
Synthesis of 1‐(4‐hydroxybutyl)‐2‐benzoyl indoles from 2‐pyrrolidine benzaldehydes and α‐bromoacetophenones in deep eutectic solvent
Authors: Jiang Guofang , Zhang Can , Xing Xiaohong , Ouyang Jinbo , Yang Hong , Xie Zongbo , Le Zhanggao
Published: February 2024

A novel and highly efficient method for the synthesis of 1‐(4‐hydroxybutyl)‐2‐benzoyl indoles from 2‐pyrrolidine benzaldehyde and α‐bromoacetophenone in a choline chloride (ChCl)/ZnCl2 eutectic mixture was developed. This method, which does not require any catalyst, additive, or alkali, is useful for realizing tandem cyclization reactions. Several indoles were produced after cyclization and ring opening processes. Not all the compounds obtained are reported in the literature. This synthetic strategy proves that deep eutectic solvents can replace catalysts and organic solvents. Consequently, this is an environmentally friendly strategy that has significant potential in the development of green and sustainable chemistry.