bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Response of Nutrients and Mulches on Qualitative Attributes of Strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa Duch.) cv. Chandler
Authors: Shekhawat Charu , Kumar Sanjay , Yadav Shatrunjay , Meena Pooja , Shukla Usha , Gautam Deeksha , Prithiani Surbhi
Published: October 2023

To assess the significance of mulching and nutrients on the performances of Strawberry (Fragaria x ananassa) with respect to the qualitative character's during 2019–20, a field experiment was carried out at the Horticulture Research Farm-1 of the Department of Horticulture, School of Agricultural Sciences and Technology, Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University (A Central University), Vidya-Vihar, Rae Bareli Road, Lucknow. The experiment was laid out in RBD having three replications. The result revealed significantly highest Tss (11.28)0Brix, Total Sugar (8.89%), Reducing Sugar (6.85%), Non Reducing Sugar (2.39%), Acidity (0.63%) and Ascorbic Acid (41.90 mg/100g) in treatment T9 (Black polythene FYM 100%) followed by the treatment T10 (Black polythene vermi-compost 100%). Treatment T1 (the control), on the other hand, performed poorly in terms of all qualitative character’s. In light of the results, it can be said that using black polythene with FYM 100%in strawberry increases all qualitative attributing characters, while black polythene with vermin-compost 100% produced the second-best results.
Optimum Yaramila (N23P10S5) Blend Formulation and Its Fertilization for Growth and Yield of Wheat in Enderta District, South Eastern Tigray
Authors: Brhane Hagos , Berhe Daniel
Published: October 2023

Fertilizer use in Ethiopia has focused mainly on the application of nitrogen and phosphorous fertilizers in the form of di-ammonium phosphate and urea for almost all cultivated crops for the last several years. Such unbalanced application of plant nutrients may aggravate the depletion of other important nutrient elements in soils such as S and micro-nutrients. Present study was conducted in Tigray region Enderta district with the objective of evaluating Yaramila (23-10-5, N: P2O5: S) and its rate on yield of wheat crop. In this trial five treatments were included and it was laid out in Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replications. The results indicated that biomass, grain, and straw yields of wheat responded to the additional yaramila levels. But, these levels did not beat recommended NP and the maximum grain yield was obtained at the recommended NP. The yaramila@200kg/ha level has almost equal levels of N and P with the recommended NP and additional sulfur levels but the yield and yield components of wheat were not significantly higher than recommended NP even with additional NP adjusted. This implies that either the sulfur or the formulation of blending decreased nitrogen and phosphorus efficiency. Hence, nitrogen and phosphorus are the yield limiting nutrients rather than sulfur for wheat. Moreover, Yaramila blended based on this formulation as source of sulfur is not a suitable fertilizer for wheat growth in the study. So, other alternative sources of sulfur rather than yaramila should be used for wheat production.
Green Manure: Aspects and its Role in Sustainable Agriculture
Authors: Singh Dheerendra , Devi Khumanthem Babina , Ashoka P.  , Bahadur Raj , Kumar Neeraj , Devi Okram Ricky , Shahni Yumkhaibam Sonia
Published: October 2023

Continuous cropping and frequent soil cultivation contribute to the breakdown of soil aggregates and the removal of organic matter, which reduces soil fertility and production. Green manuring is a low-cost and efficient approach for reducing the expense of inorganic fertilizers and preserving soil fertility. Due to the mounting problems facing agriculture, including climate change, extreme weather events, soil deterioration, and land contamination as a result of the overuse of chemical fertilizers, many farmers are adding green manuring into their methods to prevent soil erosion, improve soil structure, control weed growth, and most importantly increase the soil's fertility. The use of green manure has drastically decreased, raising concerns about the sustainability of soil fertility. Field crops may experience a temporary setback following the integration of organic residues with a high C-N ratio. By enhancing the soil's structure, fertility, and nutrient content, green manuring functions as a restoration factory to maintain the soil's fertility for sustainable agriculture. Green manure is therefore essential for growers that seek to decrease the use of dangerous chemicals for soil fertilization. Many farmers must use green manure in their operations to avoid the usage of chemical fertilizers in agriculture.
A Case Report on Adult - Onset Still’s Disease
Authors: Meenatchi R.  , Karthy C.  , Krithika Sri. J. B.
Published: October 2023

Background: Adult-onset Still's disease (AOSD) is an uncommon systemic inflammatory condition with an unknown cause, presenting with a set of three main symptoms: recurrent high fevers, joint pain (sometimes accompanied by arthritis), and an evanescent skin rash.

Case Report: We here describe a 38-year-old female patient who presented to the ER with complaints of fever on and off, body pain and swelling of multiple joints for 3 months, and a rash with itching all over the body for 1 month. Fever was associated with chills and rigors, negative rheumatological factors, and infections. Investigations of bone marrow analysis revealed a normal cell count and a slight increase in eosinophil precursors, without any abnormal cells or parasites. Based on the Yamaguchi criteria, the patient was diagnosed with AOSD.
Mulching: An Efficient Technology for Sustainable Agriculture Production
Authors: Kumar Pradeep , Usadadiya V. P.
Published: October 2023

The application of mulching practices reduces soil evaporation, conserves soil moisture, suppresses weed growth, controls soil structure and temperature, influences soil micro-organisms, and is aesthetically pleasing. This study has reviewed, which described the effects of various mulching materials and methods on soil and environment that influence crop productivity. This paper describes the extent of influence of different mulching materials and methods on the hydrothermal environment of soils. It is imperative to know the processes that control soil environments under various mulching conditions and the effects of mulching materials on crop yield, productivity and water use efficiency. Plastic mulching materials also have a greater importance to control soil environment and increase crop yield. Organic mulching materials are inexpensive and environment friendly. The selection of an appropriate mulching material is, however, guided by crop type, crop management practices and climatic conditions. Future research is needed on the effects of low-cost biodegradable mulching materials on microclimate modifications, soil biota, soil fertility, crop growth and crop yields.
Effects of Ferrate (VI) Pre-oxidation in the Coagulation Treatment of Drinking Water
Authors: Alavi Seyed Hossein , Bidhendi Gholamreza Nabi , Mehrdadi Nasser , Amiri Mohammad Javad
Published: October 2023

Although ferrate (Fe(VI)) is introduced as a feasible replacement for pre-oxidation in the treatment of drinking water, limited research is available on effects of utilizing ferrate for the treatment of drinking water sources to produce potable water. In the present study, an experimental program was conducted on the employment of ferrate in drinking water treatment; this program included batch and continuous flow tests on multiple samples of natural water from different sources. According to the batch test results, the ferrate pre-oxidation led to improved ultraviolet light-absorbing compounds (UV254) removal by subsequent coagulation in a small portion of the samples but showed no enhancement in the majority of samples. In continuous flow tests, ferrate was added to small-scale models of existing treatment plants. Compared to the case with no pre-oxidation, ferrate pre-oxidation generally enhanced UV254 absorption, finished water turbidity, and disinfection by-product formation. Therefore, ferrate can be viably used in the treatment systems of drinking water and provide a superior replacement to available oxidants by allowing for the oxidation and disinfection of inorganic materials without negative effects on downstream processes. More researches are needed to examine a more viable combination of ferrate with other methods and obtain more knowledge about the mechanisms of the known synergistic applications of ferrate.
Overview of Underwater Robots for Hull Cleaning
Authors: Feng Weilong , Ma Chenglong , Liang Jianhao
Published: October 2023

At present, the cleaning of the hull surface in China is carried out in the dock, and the cleaning equipment that can be successfully used in underwater operations still needs the assistance of divers in the water, which is high cost and low efficiency. This paper introduces the current situation of hull cleaning robots at home and abroad, as well as the advantages and disadvantages of related technologies, such as dock cleaning technology, underwater cleaning technology, etc., and analyzes the development trend of underwater hull cleaning equipment in the future, providing a theoretical basis for the development of hull cleaning equipment. Underwater cleaning robots have been a rapidly developing research and application field in recent years. Its main goal is to perform cleaning, maintenance, and monitoring tasks in an underwater environment by automated or semi-automated means. Such robots are used in a wide variety of application scenarios, including but not limited to oilfield maintenance, marine debris removal, reservoir and pond management, and ship maintenance study design: Underwater cleaning robots are capable of working long hours in harsh environments and their programmability and versatility enable them to perform a variety of complex tasks. In addition, with the development of advanced technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), and deep learning, the level of intelligence of these robots is also gradually improving. With global industrialization and population growth, the problem of underwater environmental pollution is becoming more and more serious. Traditional underwater cleanup methods often rely on human labor, which is not only inefficient but also can pose a safety risk to workers. Therefore, automation technology has great potential and value in this field. To sum up, underwater cleaning robot is a multidisciplinary field, involving mechanical engineering, electronic engineering, computer science, and environmental science. It not only contributes to solving current pressing environmental problems but also provides new research and application opportunities in related fields.
When Headlines Harm Patients With Cancer
Authors: Shaverdian Narek , Jagsi Reshma
Published: October 2023

This Viewpoint discusses journalists’ responsibility to report study results objectively, without dramatic headlines, to avoid hindering patients’ decision-making about treatments.
Industry differences in psychological distress and distress-related productivity loss: A cross-sectional study of Australian workers
Authors: Burns Kristy , Schroeder Elizabeth-Ann , Fung Thomas , Ellis Louise A , Amin Janaki
Published: October 2023

Objective

This research uses Australian survey data to identify industries with high rates of psychological distress, and to estimate productivity impacts in the form of work loss and cutback days.

Methods

Analyzing cross-sectional data from the 2017/2018 National Health Survey, industry prevalence of psychological distress (Kessler Screening Scale) was compared using ordered logistic regression. Productivity outcomes were distress-related work loss days and work cutback days in the previous 4 weeks. Losses were analyzed using zero-inflated negative binomial regression.

Results

The sample consisted of 9073 employed workers [4497 males (49.6%), 4576 females (50.4%)]. Compared to the reference industry, Health, the odds of very high distress for males were highest in Information media and telecommunications (OR 2.4; 95% CI 1.2–4.6) and Administrative and support services (OR 2.5; 95% CI 1.2–5.0), while for females the odds were highest in Accommodation and food services (OR 2.0; 95% CI 1.5–2.8) followed by Retail (OR 1.6; 95% CI 1.2–2.0). Very high distress was associated excess productivity losses. Industry of occupation did not impact on productivity loss over and above distress.

Conclusions

Substantial psychological distress was reported which impacted on productivity. High-risk industries included Information media and telecommunications, Accommodation and food services, and Retail.
Isodose surface differences: A novel tool for the comparison of dose distributions
Authors: Diamantopoulos Stefanos , Platoni Kalliopi , Karaiskos Pantelis , Kouloulias Vassilis , Efstathopoulos Efstathios
Published: October 2023

Background

Comparing dose distributions is a routine task in radiotherapy, mainly in patient‐specific quality assurance (PSQA). Currently, the evaluation of the dose distributions is being performed mainly with statistical methods, which could underestimate the clinical importance of the spotted differences, as per the literature.

Purpose

This paper aims to provide proof‐of‐concept for a novel dose distribution comparison method based on the difference of the isodose surfaces. The new method connects acceptance tolerance to QA limitations (equipment capabilities) and integrates a clinical approach into the analysis procedure.

Methods

The distance of dose points from the isocenter can be used as a function to define the shape of an isodose surface expressed as a histogram. Isodose surface differences (ISD) are defined as the normalized differences of reference and evaluated surface histograms plotted against their corresponding isodose. Acceptance tolerances originate from actual QA tolerances and are presented clinically intuitively. The ISD method was compared to the gamma index using intentionally erroneous VMAT and IMRT plans.

Results

Results revealed that the ISD method is sensitive to all errors induced in the plans. Discrepancies are presented per isodose, enabling the evaluation of the plan in two regions representing PTV and Normal Tissue. ISD manages to flag errors that would remain undetected under the gamma analysis.

Conclusion

The ISD method is a meaningful, QA‐related, registration‐free, and clinically oriented technique of dose distribution evaluation. This method can be used either as a standalone or an auxiliary tool to the well‐established evaluation procedures, overcoming significant limitations reported in the literature.
Epigenetic Network in Immunometabolic Disease
Authors: Geiger Martin , Gorica Era , Mohammed Shafeeq Ahmed , Mongelli Alessia , Mengozi Alessandro , Delfine Valentina , Ruschitzka Frank , Costantino Sarah , Paneni Francesco
Published: October 2023

Although a large amount of data consistently shows that genes affect immunometabolic characteristics and outcomes, epigenetic mechanisms are also heavily implicated. Epigenetic changes, including DNA methylation, histone modification, and noncoding RNA, determine gene activity by altering the accessibility of chromatin to transcription factors. Various factors influence these alterations, including genetics, lifestyle, and environmental cues. Moreover, acquired epigenetic signals can be transmitted across generations, thus contributing to early disease traits in the offspring. A closer investigation is critical in this aspect as it can help to understand the underlying molecular mechanisms further and gain insights into potential therapeutic targets for preventing and treating diseases arising from immuno‐metabolic dysregulation. In this review, the role of chromatin alterations in the transcriptional modulation of genes involved in insulin resistance, systemic inflammation, macrophage polarization, endothelial dysfunction, metabolic cardiomyopathy, and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), is discussed. An overview of emerging chromatin‐modifying drugs and the importance of the individual epigenetic profile for personalized therapeutic approaches in patients with immuno‐metabolic disorders is also presented.
Lattice‐Gradient Perovskite KTaO3 Films for an Ultrastable and Low‐Dose X‐Ray Detector
Authors: Li Liqi , Fang Xuchao , Zhang Zijun , Yang Qian , Wang Fei , Li Menglu , Zhu Ruixue , Wang Lixiang , Zhu Yihan , Miao Xiaohe , Lu Yangfan , Shi Junhui , Wu Yongjun , Liu Gang , Fang Yanjun , Tian He , Ren Zhaohui , Yang Deren , Han Gaorong
Published: October 2023

Conventional indirect X‐ray detectors employ scintillating phosphors to convert X‐ray photons into photodiode‐detectable visible photons, leading to low conversion efficiencies, low spatial resolutions, and optical crosstalk. Consequently, X‐ray detectors that directly convert photons into electric signals have long been desired for high‐performance medical imaging and industrial inspection. Although emerging hybrid inorganic–organic halide perovskites, such as CH3NH3PbI3 and CH3NH3PbBr3, exhibit high sensitivity, they have salient drawbacks including structural instability, ion motion, and the use of toxic Pb. Here, this work reports an ultrastable, low‐dose X‐ray detector comprising KTaO3 perovskite films epitaxially grown on a Nb‐doped strontium titanate substrate using a low‐cost solution method. The detector exhibits a stable photocurrent under high‐dose irradiation, high‐temperature (200 °C), and aqueous conditions. Moreover, the prototype KTaO3‐film‐based detector exhibits a 150‐fold higher sensitivity (3150 µC Gyair−1cm−2) and 150‐fold lower detection limit (<40 nGyair s−1) than those of commercial α‐Se‐based direct detectors. Systematic investigations reveal that the high stability of the detector originates from the strong covalent bonds within the KTaO3 film, whereas the low detection limit is due to a lattice‐gradient‐driven built‐in electric field and the high insulating property of KTaO3 film. This study unveils a new path toward the fabrication of green, stable, and low‐dose X‐ray detectors using oxide perovskite films, which have significant application potential in medical imaging and security operations.
Real‐time and Multichannel Measurement of Contractility of hiPSC‐Derived 3D Skeletal Muscle using Fiber Optics‐Based Sensing
Authors: Iuliano Alessandro , Haalstra Matthias , Raghuraman Ramkumar , Bielawski Kevin , Bholasing Anjali P. , van der Wal Erik , de Greef Jessica C. , Pijnappel W. W. M. Pim
Published: October 2023

As the field of cardiac and skeletal muscle tissue engineering expands, so does the need for accurate and reliable systems to generate in vitro 3D tissues and analyze their functional properties. In this study, the Cuore is introduced, a system that integrates sensors based on optical fibers and uses the principle of light interferometry to detect the contraction of 3D Tissue Engineered Skeletal Muscles (3D‐TESMs). The technology employed in the Cuore allows for reproducible and multichannel force measurements down to a nano‐Newtons resolution while maintaining sterility and permitting continuous non‐invasive recording within and outside standard tissue culture incubators. Thanks to the integrated electrodes for electrical pulse stimulation (EPS), 3D‐TESMs generated from three independent hiPSC‐derived myogenic progenitors (MPs) lines are stimulated and the contractility is recorded over the course of a week. Through the modulation of different EPS parameters, the optimal combination to induce the 3D‐TESMs in producing fully fused tetani without causing damage is determined. Furthermore, 3D‐TESMs from different lines exhibit characteristic signatures of spontaneous contractility and response to caffeine, verapamil, and the β‐agonist clenbuterol. The ease of use, high sensitivity, and the integrated electrodes and sensors make the Cuore an ideal technology to investigate the biology of contractile tissues and their response to drugs.
Red and Near Infrared Emissive Bis‐Tridentate Ir(III) Phosphors for Organic Light Emitting Diodes
Authors: Yan Jie , Song Min , Zhou Dong‐Ying , Ni Guowei , Gu Muhua , Yiu Shek‐Man , Zhou Xiuwen , Liao Liang‐Sheng , Chi Yun
Published: October 2023

Efficient saturated red and near‐infrared (NIR) emissive materials are needed in the development of organic light‐emitting diodes (OLEDs), with applications extending beyond flat panel displays and lighting luminaries. Toward this aim, a series of bis‐tridentate Ir(III) complexes (3a ‒ 3c and 4a ‒ 4c) are designed and synthesized, showing emission spanning the region of 601‒694 nm in degassed toluene. Their emission tuning is mainly achieved using monoanionic chromophoric chelates, L1H for red and L2H for deep‐red and NIR, where the extended π‐conjugation and electron deficient N atoms are introduced synergistically. Moreover, three ancillary chelates, X1H2, X2H2, and X3H2, delivered a secondary influence via varied donor strength to the central Ir(III) atom. The resulting red and deep‐red OLED devices exhibit maximum (max.) external quantum efficiencies (EQEs) of 21.4% and 18.1% with peak maximum at 620 and 666 nm, respectively. More impressively, the device based on 4b delivers a NIR emission peak maximum at 702 nm with a maximum EQE of 10.0%.
A Universal Strategy for Modular Tunable Full‐Color Circularly Polarized Luminescent Materials with Afterglow
Authors: Wang Tong , Sun Siyu , Jiang Xiangyu , Ma Xiang
Published: October 2023

Circularly polarized luminescence (CPL) has shown significant potential for use in optoelectronic information and biomedical applications. Previously, the construction of CPL in thin films has often required the introduction of chiral groups into the system, which is efficient but complicated to synthesize and separate enantiomeric isomers. This manuscript proposes a simple and efficient strategy to construct dye‐doped polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) thin films with controlled orientation of the panchromatic CPL signal. This strategy can be generalized to the construction of thin‐film CPL. Besides, the metal‐free pure circularly polarized afterglow material is reported here to be adjustable. Moreover, the PVA films can be cut and stacked in a modular way to obtain different emission effects to induce mixed CPL, and three primary colors can be piled up together to induce white CPL. The PVA film has good prospects for use in optical devices, for example, anti‐counterfeiting of information and optical information encryption.
Amorphous/Crystalline Rh(OH)3/CoP Heterostructure with Hydrophilicity/ Aerophobicity Feature for All‐pH Hydrogen Evolution Reactions
Authors: Xing Minghui , Zhu Shaoke , Zeng Xiaofei , Wang Shitao , Liu Zhiping , Cao Dapeng
Published: October 2023

Interface engineering shows distinct advantages in the electrocatalytic hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) due to the unique structures that can be realized. The interfaces formed by amorphous materials often exhibit special properties that are beneficial for the HER. Herein, an amorphous/crystalline Rh(OH)3/CoP heterostructure is constructed, which exhibits outstanding HER performance in the all‐pH range. It only needs the overpotentials of 13, 12, and 25 mV to drive a current density of 10 mA cm−2 in alkaline, acidic, and neutral media, respectively, which ranks as one of the best HER electrocatalysts reported recently. The outstanding HER activities in the all‐pH range are attributed to the unique amorphous/crystalline heterostructure of Rh(OH)3/CoP, which possesses special hydrophilic/aerophobic features thataccelerate mass transfer, and provide abundant exposed active sites and appropriate defects. Importantly, the performance attenuation mechanism of the catalyst is also revealed, i.e., the formation of Rh aggregations leads to poor contact and efficacy loss of the amorphous/crystalline interface for HER. In short, this work provides a new idea for using amorphous/crystalline heterostructure to design electrocatalysts, not only for the HER, but also for the oxygen reduction and oxygen evolution reactions.
ACBD5‐related retinal dystrophy with leukodystrophy due to novel mutations in ACBD5 and with additional features including ovarian insufficiency
Authors: Rudaks Laura Ivete , Triplett James , Morris Katrina , Reddel Stephen , Worgan Lisa
Published: October 2023

Acyl‐CoA‐binding domain‐containing protein 5‐related retinal dystrophy with leukodystrophy (ACBD5) is a peroxisomal disorder due to deficiency of ACBD5. Presenting features include retinal dystrophy, progressive leukodystrophy, and ataxia. Only seven cases of ACBD5‐related retinal dystrophy have been reported in the literature to date, including one other case diagnosed in adulthood. Here we report a case with novel compound heterozygous ACBD5 mutations, presenting with the common features of rod monochromatism and progressive leukodystrophy with spasticity and ataxia. Additional novel clinical features included head and neck tremor and ovarian insufficiency. The patient's symptoms were present since infancy, but a diagnosis was only reached in adulthood when whole exome sequencing was performed. This case, which reports two novel mutations and additional clinical manifestations, contributes to the emerging phenotype of ACBD5‐related retinal dystrophy with leukodystrophy, and delineation of the natural history and disease progression.
Advanced Lithium Extraction Membranes Derived from Tagged‐Modification of Polyamide Networks
Authors: Peng Huawen , Liu Xufei , Su Yafei , Li Jiapeng , Zhao Qiang
Published: October 2023

Efficient Mg2+/Li+ separation is crucial to combating the lithium shortage worldwide, yet current nanofiltration membranes suffer from low efficacy and/or poor scalability, because desirable properties of membranes are entangled and there is a trade‐off. This work reports a “tagged‐modification” approach to tackle the challenge. A mixture of 3‐bromo‐trimethylpropan‐1‐aminium bromide (E1) and 3‐aminopropyltrimethylazanium (E2) was designed to modify polyethylenimine – trimesoyl chloride (PEI‐TMC) membranes. E1 and E2 reacted with the PEI and TMC, respectively, and thus, the membrane properties (hydrophilicity, pore sizes, charge) were untangled and intensified simultaneously. The permeance (34.3 L m−2 h−1 bar−1) and Mg2+/Li+ selectivity (23.2) of the modified membranes are about 4 times and 2 times higher than the pristine membrane, and they remain stable in a 30‐days test. The permeance is the highest among all analogous nanofiltration membranes. The tagged‐modification method enables the preparation of large‐area membranes and modules that produce high‐purity lithium carbonate (Li2CO3) from simulated brine.
Exploring the morphology of adult tibia and fibula from Sima de los Huesos site in sierra de Atapuerca, Burgos, Spain
Authors: Rodríguez Laura , García‐González Rebeca , Arsuaga Juan Luis , Carretero José‐Miguel
Published: October 2023

The analysis of the locomotor anatomy of Late PleistoceneHomohas largely focused on changes in proximal femur and pelvic morphologies, with much attention centered on the emergence of modern humans. Although much of the focus has been on changes in the proximal femur, some research has also been conducted on tibiae and, to a lesser extent, fibulae. With this in mind, we present one of the largest samples of the same population of human tibiae and fibulae from the Middle Pleistocene to determine their main characteristic traits and establish similarities and differences, primarily with those of Neanderthals and modern humans, but also with other Middle Pleistocene specimens in the fossil record. Through this study, we established that the Middle Pleistocene population from the Sima de los Huesos (Atapuerca, Burgos, Spain) had lower leg long bones similar to those of Neanderthals, although there were some important differences, such as bone length, which this fossil individuals resembled those of modern humans and not to Neanderthals. This fact is related to the crural index and leg length, even though we do not have any true association between femora and tibiae yet, it has implications for establishing locomotor efficiency and climate adaptation.
Synthesis of novel nicotinic acid derivatives of potential antioxidant and anticancer activity
Authors: El‐Dash Yara , Khalil Nadia A. , Ahmed Eman M. , Hassanin Soha O. , Gowifel Ayah M. H. , Hassan Marwa S. A.
Published: October 2023

This study comprises the design and synthesis of novel nicotinic acid‐based cytotoxic agents with selective inhibitory efficacy against the vascular endothelial growth factor receptor‐2 (VEGFR‐2). Screening of novel compounds for cytotoxicity was assessed against 60 human cancer cell lines. The two most active compounds, 5b and 5c, and the reference drugs sorafenib and doxorubicin were investigated against HCT‐15, PC‐3, and CF‐295 cancer cell lines. Compound 5c exhibited the highest cytotoxic potential compared to doxorubicin against the HCT‐15 and PC‐3 tumor cell lines. Moreover, it exhibited higher cytotoxic potential and selectivity toward the HCT‐15 cell panel compared with sorafenib. Compound 5c demonstrated promising VEGFR‐2 inhibition (concentration needed to inhibit cell viability by 50%, IC50 = 0.068 μM) and superior VEGFR‐2 selectivity over the epidermal growth factor receptor and platelet‐derived growth factor receptor‐β enzymes. It also reduced the total and phosphorylated VEGFR‐2 and induced apoptosis, as evidenced by a 4.3‐fold rise in caspase‐3 levels. The antioxidant potential of the new compounds was determined via measuring the superoxide dismutase (SOD) levels, among which compound 5c exhibited an SOD level almost comparable to ascorbic acid. These results suggested that compound 5c exhibited dual cytotoxic and antioxidant activities. Docking of 5c into the VEGFR‐2 pocket showed a similar binding mode to sorafenib. Moreover, the ADME (absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion) profile of 5c outlined drug‐likeness. Finally, The density functional theory calculations displayed an increased binding affinity of 5c to the target enzyme.
Bumetanide oral solution for the treatment of children and adolescents with autism spectrum disorder: Results from two randomized phase III studies
Authors: Fuentes Joaquin , Parellada Mara , Georgoula Christina , Oliveira Guiomar , Marret Stéphane , Crutel Véronique , Albarran Cristina , Lambert Estelle , Pénélaud Pierre‐François , Ravel Denis , Ben Ari Yehezkel
Published: October 2023

The efficacy and safety of bumetanide oral solution for the treatment of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in children and adolescents was evaluated in two international, multi‐center, randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled phase III trials; one enrolled patients aged 7–17 years (SIGN 1 trial) and the other enrolled younger patients aged 2–6 years (SIGN 2). In both studies, patients were randomized to receive bumetanide oral solution twice daily (BID) or placebo BID during a 6‐month double‐blind treatment period. The primary endpoint was change in Childhood Autism Rating Scale 2 (CARS2) total raw score from baseline to Week 26. Key secondary endpoints included changes in Social Responsiveness Scale‐2, Clinical Global Impression Scale, and Vineland Adaptive Behavior Scale. Each study enrolled 211 patients (bumetanide, n = 107; placebo, n = 104). Both studies were terminated early due to absence of any significant difference between bumetanide and placebo in the overall studied populations. In both studies, CARS2 total raw score decreased from baseline to Week 26 in the bumetanide and placebo groups, with no statistically significant difference between groups. No differences were observed between treatment groups for any of the secondary efficacy endpoints in either study. In both studies, treatment‐emergent adverse events that occurred more frequently with bumetanide than placebo included thirst, polyuria, hypokalemia, and dry mouth. These large phase III trials failed to demonstrate a benefit of bumetanide for the treatment of pediatric ASD compared with placebo. Consequently, the sponsor has discontinued the development of bumetanide for the treatment of this condition.

Trial registration: https://clinicaltrials.gov: SIGN 1: NCT03715166; SIGN 2: NCT03715153.
Polymer properties of softwood organosolv lignins produced in two different reactor systems
Authors: Joseph Prajin , Tanase‐Opedal Mihaela , Moe Størker T.
Published: October 2023

Lignin, the second most abundant biopolymer on earth and with a predominantly aromatic structure, has the potential to be a raw material for valuable chemicals and other bio‐based chemicals. In industry, lignin is underutilized by being used mostly as a fuel for producing thermal energy. Valorization of lignin requires knowledge of the structure and different linkages in the isolated lignin, making the study of structure of lignin important. In this article, lignin samples isolated from two types of reactors (autoclave reactor and displacement reactor) were analyzed by FT‐IR, size exclusion chromatography, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), and Py‐GC‐MS. The average molecular mass of the organosolv lignins isolated from the autoclave reactor decreased at higher severities, and FT‐IR showed an increase in free phenolic content with increasing severity. Except for molecular mass and molecular mass dispersity, there were only minor differences between lignins isolated from the autoclave reactor and lignins isolated from the displacement reactor. Carbohydrate analysis, Py‐GC–MS and TGA showed that the lignin isolated using either of the reactor systems is of high purity, suggesting that organosolv lignin is a good candidate for valorization.
Macro‐ and micro‐scale culture environment differentially regulate the effects of crowding on macrophage function
Authors: Hsu Ssu‐Chieh J. , Luu Thuy U. , Smith Tim D. , Liu Wendy F.
Published: October 2023

Macrophages hold vital roles in immune defense, wound healing, and tissue homeostasis, and have the exquisite ability to sense and respond to dynamically changing cues in their microenvironment. Much of our understanding of their behavior has been derived from studies performed using in vitro culture systems, in which the cell environment can be precisely controlled. Recent advances in miniaturized culture platforms also offer the ability to recapitulate some features of the in vivo environment and analyze cellular responses at the single‐cell level. Since macrophages are sensitive to their surrounding environments, the specific conditions in both macro‐ and micro‐scale cultures likely contribute to observed responses. In this study, we investigate how the presence of neighboring cells influence macrophage activation following proinflammatory stimulation in both bulk and micro‐scale culture. We found that in bulk cultures, higher seeding density negatively regulated the average TNF‐α secretion from individual macrophages in response to inflammatory agonists, and this effect was partially caused by the reduced cell‐to‐media volume ratio. In contrast, studies conducted using microwells to isolate single cells and groups of cells revealed that increasing numbers of cells positively influences their inflammatory activation, suggesting that the absolute cell numbers in the system may be important. In addition, a single inflammatory cell enhanced the inflammatory state of a small group of cells. Overall, this work helps to better understand how variations of macroscopic and microscopic culture environments influence studies in macrophage biology and provides insight into how the presence of neighboring cells and the soluble environment influences macrophage activation.
A histological study of the adult ligamentum arteriosum: Novel findings with application to a patent ductus arteriosus
Authors: Iwanaga Joe , Chaudhry Humza , Yu Aaron , Matsuo Katsuhisa , Kawai Hotaka , Han Aya , Tabira Yoko , Saga Tsuyoshi , Watanabe Koichi , Loukas Marios , Tubbs R. Shane
Published: October 2023

The ligamentum arteriosum (LA) is the vestigial fibrous remnant of the ductus arteriosus (DA), a fetal vessel arising from the left dorsal segment of the sixth aortic arch that connects the left pulmonary artery to the aortic arch. Incomplete obliteration of the DA results in a patent ductus arteriosus (PDA), causing the shunting of oxygen‐rich blood to recirculate to the lungs, which can lead to pulmonary hypertension. The current study aims to further elucidate the structural characteristics of the LA via histological analysis with data gathered from adult cadaveric specimens. The LA was harvested and histologically observed with Hematoxylin and Eosin, van Gieson, and Masson's trichrome staining. Fibrous and muscle tissues were observed in all 25 specimens. The LA was categorized into three types based on the morphological features of the LA. Type I (vessel‐like structure), type II (fibrotic tissue with duct‐like structure), and type III (no duct‐like structure) were found in 4.0%, 80.0%, and 16.0%, respectively. Finally, the remnant of a valve in the LA was also observed at the junction between the AA and LA. We suggest that this valve be called the “pulmonary‐aortic valve.” In the majority of the adult LAs, a duct‐like structure was still present. These data could better elucidate our understanding of the pathology and etiology of a PDA.
Antiedematogenic and Analgesic Activities of Abietic Acid in Mice
Authors: de Lima Silva Maria Gabriely , Santos da Silva Lucas Yure , Torres Pessoa Renata , de Oliveira Maria Rayane Correia , Batista Francisco Lucas Alves , Alcântara Isabel Sousa , Bezerra Martins Anita Oliveira Brito Pereira , Ribeiro‐Filho Jaime , Coutinho Henrique Douglas Melo , de Menezes Irwin Rose Alencar
Published: October 2023

Exacerbated inflammatory responses to harmful stimuli can lead to significant pain, edema, and other complications that require pharmacological intervention. Abietic acid (AA) is a diterpene found as a significant constituent in pine species, and evidence has identified its biological potential. The present study aimed to evaluate abietic acid‘s antiedematogenic and anti‐inflammatory activity in mice. Swiss mice (Mus musculus) weighing 20–30 g were treated with AA at 50, 100, and 200 mg/kg. The central nervous system (CNS) effects were evaluated using open‐field and rotarod assays. The antinociceptive and anti‐inflammatory screening was assessed by the acetic acid and formalin tests. The antiedematogenic activity was investigated by measuring paw edema induced by carrageenan, dextran, histamine, arachidonic acid, and prostaglandin, in addition to using a granuloma model. The oral administration of abietic acid (200 mg/Kg) showed no evidence of CNS effects. The compound also exhibited significant antiedematogenic and anti‐inflammatory activities in the carrageenan and dextran models, mostly related to the inhibition of myeloperoxidase (MOP) activity and histamine action and, to a lesser extent, the inhibition of eicosanoid‐dependent pathways. In the granuloma model, abietic acid‘s effect was less expressive than in the acute models investigated in this study. In conclusion, abietic acid has analgesic and antiedematogenic activities related to anti‐inflammatory mechanisms.
CO2 Capture and Direct Air CO2 Capture Followed by Integrated Conversion to Methane Assisted by Metal Hydroxides and a Ru/Al2O3 Catalyst
Authors: Koch Christopher J. , Suhail Zohaib , Goeppert Alain , Prakash G. K. Surya
Published: October 2023

Rising CO2 levels are leading to an increase in atmospheric greenhouse gas effect. Hydroxide salts have previously been shown to be promising reagents for capturing CO2. Utilizing a 5 %Ru/Al2O3 catalyst, the carbonates obtained through CO2 capture can then be hydrogenated to methane. This conversion occurs at relatively mild temperatures from 200 °C to 250 °C under 40 to 70 bar H2 with yields of up to 100 %. Natural sources of calcium carbonate, like eggshells and seashells, can also be partially converted to methane. The direct air CO2 capture and conversion of CO2 to methane was achieved as well in quantitative yields.
Organic matter and nutrients removal from landfill leachate by airlift aerobic three‐phase fluidized bed reactor
Authors: Pantoja‐Quiroz Amanda Isabel , Burbano‐Moreno José Hugo , Sánchez Ortiz Iván Andrés
Published: October 2023

The treatment of leachate from the Antanas Landfill in the municipality of Pasto, Colombia, was evaluated by means of aerobic three‐phase airlift fluidized bed reactors with internal circulation (ATPAFBRWIC) with an external and internal diameter ratio of 2 and an individual effective volume of 53 L. Silica sand was used as a carrier at a concentration of 104 g L−1, and the reactors were operated with hydraulic retention times (HRT) of 1, 2 and 4 h. For a period of 45 days, the following parameters were monitored at the influent and effluent of the reactors: biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), chemical oxygen demand (COD), total phosphorus (TP), total ammonia nitrogen (TAN), total Kjeldahl nitrogen, nitrites and nitrates, where the respective average concentrations recorded in the influent were 4225.9, 7115.2, 14.1, 1664.1, 1591.1, 0.41, and 31.8 mg L−1. The best performance in the removal of organic matter and nutrients was recorded for a 2‐h HRT, with average removal efficiency of 52.9% for BOD and 26.8% for COD, and 52.5, 5.6, and 56.2% for TP, TAN, and nitrates, respectively. The low volumes required for ATPAFBRWIC suggest their potential use as compact leachate treatment units.
A user‐friendly guide to using distance measures to compare time series in ecology
Authors: Dove Shawn , Böhm Monika , Freeman Robin , Jellesmark Sean , Murrell David J.
Published: October 2023

Time series are a critical component of ecological analysis, used to track changes in biotic and abiotic variables. Information can be extracted from the properties of time series for tasks such as classification (e.g., assigning species to individual bird calls); clustering (e.g., clustering similar responses in population dynamics to abrupt changes in the environment or management interventions); prediction (e.g., accuracy of model predictions to original time series data); and anomaly detection (e.g., detecting possible catastrophic events from population time series). These common tasks in ecological research all rely on the notion of (dis‐) similarity, which can be determined using distance measures. A plethora of distance measures have been described, predominantly in the computer and information sciences, but many have not been introduced to ecologists. Furthermore, little is known about how to select appropriate distance measures for time‐series‐related tasks. Therefore, many potential applications remain unexplored. Here, we describe 16 properties of distance measures that are likely to be of importance to a variety of ecological questions involving time series. We then test 42 distance measures for each property and use the results to develop an objective method to select appropriate distance measures for any task and ecological dataset. We demonstrate our selection method by applying it to a set of real‐world data on breeding bird populations in the UK and discuss other potential applications for distance measures, along with associated technical issues common in ecology. Our real‐world population trends exhibit a common challenge for time series comparisons: a high level of stochasticity. We demonstrate two different ways of overcoming this challenge, first by selecting distance measures with properties that make them well suited to comparing noisy time series and second by applying a smoothing algorithm before selecting appropriate distance measures. In both cases, the distance measures chosen through our selection method are not only fit‐for‐purpose but are consistent in their rankings of the population trends. The results of our study should lead to an improved understanding of, and greater scope for, the use of distance measures for comparing ecological time series and help us answer new ecological questions.
The Size Induced Phase Transition in the Rb0.95NbxMo2−xO6.475–0.5x (x=1.31–1.663) Solid Solution with β‐Pyrochlore Structure
Authors: Fukina Diana G. , Koryagin Andrey V. , Boryakov Aleksey V. , Titaev Dmitry N. , Suleimanov Evgeny V.
Published: October 2023

The size induced phase transition for non‐cubic β‐pyrochlore compounds Rb0.95NbxMo2−xO6.475–0.5x (x=1.31–1.663) has been studied in detail. The Rb0.95NbxMo2−xO6.475–0.5x (x=1.31–1.663) powders with different size particles have been prepared and investigated by X‐ray powder diffraction analysis and scanning electron microscopy with X‐ray microanalysis. The Rb0.95Nb1.5Mo0.5O5.73 and Rb0.95Nb1.375Mo0.625O5.79 powders consisted of ~20 μm crystals possess orthorhombic Pnma symmetry, whereas the same powders with particle size less 1 μm have cubic Fd‐3m and characterized by decreasing Rb content – Rb0.7Nb1.5Mo0.5O5.58 and Rb0.9Nb1.625Mo0.375O5.62. The crystal structure of Rb0.7Nb1.5Mo0.5O5.58 cubic phase refinement has been performed using the Rietveld method; and crystallographic reasons of structure reconstruction have been discussed. The electronic structure and band gap of Rb0.95NbxMo2−xO6.475–0.5x (x=1.31–1.663) compounds have been studied. Moreover the comparison of electronic structure for cubic and orthorhombic phases has been performed.
Calibration in the “real world” of a partially specified stochastic volatility model
Authors: Fatone Lorella , Mariani Francesca , Zirilli Francesco
Published: October 2023

We study the “real world” calibration of a partially specified stochastic volatility model, where the analytic expressions of the asset price drift rate and of the stochastic variance drift are not specified. The model is calibrated matching the observed asset log returns and the priors assigned by the investor. No option price data are used in the calibration. The priors chosen for the asset price drift rate and for the stochastic variance drift are those suggested by the Heston model. For this reason, the model presented can be considered as an “enhanced” Heston model. The calibration problem is formulated as a stochastic optimal control problem and solved using the dynamic programming principle. The model presented and the Heston model are calibrated using synthetic and Standard & Poor 500 (S&P500) data. The calibrated models are used to produce 6, 12, and 24 months in the future synthetic and S&P500 forecasts.
Will the “Responsibly Sourced Gas” Initiative Secure the Future of Natural Gas?
Authors: Smead Richard G.
Published: October 2023

Years ago, during the 2009–2014 time period, as hydraulic fracturing—the unfortunately named “fracking”—was the red‐hot target of critics of the natural gas industry, it became very clear that it was critical to satisfy public concerns surrounding the safety and environmental impact of the fracking process. Variations in the behavior of the nation's huge population of natural gas producers rendered the industry vulnerable to its weakest members. In the best‐run companies, usually major and large independent companies, there was an intense focus on clean and safe development, dealing with contaminated waste water as well as the sourcing of fracturing water, and in particular ensuring the absolute integrity of underground facilities to prevent the process from ever interacting with drinking water aquifers. Best practices also involved the overall management of the impact of site preparation, the operations themselves, including noise pollution and long‐term site management. I argued frequently for the equivalent of a “Good Housekeeping Seal of Approval” for the most responsible producers to have a leg up in permitting, and a market (and price) advantage over others who could not show the same level of responsibility.