bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electrochemical Hydrogenation of Organic Compounds: A Sustainable Approach
Authors: Jayan Krishnapriya , Thadathil Ditto Abraham , Varghese Anitha
Published: August 2023

Conventional methods for hydrogenation of organic compounds generally use corrosive catalysts and reagents, along with extreme conditions like high temperatures and pressures. Quenching of corrosive materials does not deter its negative impact on the environment, nor is one safe when it comes to working with high temperature and pressure. Electrochemical hydrogenation (ECH) has proven to be safe and green since most of the efficient reactions are conducted at ambient pressure and temperature, minimizing, and sometimes even negating the use of toxic catalysts and corrosive reagents as compared to conventional methods. This review therefore provides different strategies used for ECH in the past, modification of different electrodes, half reactions taken up for efficient energy usage and catalysts used for different hydrogenation reactions. It presents the advances in electrochemical hydrogenation reactions of organic compounds, starting from simple aliphatic compounds to complex polyaromatics and heterocyclic aromatic compounds.
Regioselective and Enantioselective Copper‐Catalyzed Hydroaminocarbonylation of Unactivated Alkenes and Alkynes
Authors: Yuan Yang , Zhang Youcan , Li Wenbo , Zhao Yanying , Wu Xiao‐Feng
Published: August 2023

Given the prevalence of amide backbones in marketed pharmaceuticals and their ubiquity as critical binding units in natural peptides and proteins, it remains important to develop novel methods to construct amide bonds. We report here a general method for the anti‐Markovnikov hydroaminocarbonylation of unactivated alkenes under mild conditions, using copper catalysis in combination with hydroxylamine electrophile reagents and poly(methylhydrosiloxane) (PMHS) as a cheap and environmentally friendly hydride source. The reaction tolerates a variety of functional groups and efficiently converts unactivated terminal alkenes, 1,1‐disubstituted alkenes, and cyclic alkenes to the corresponding amides with exclusive anti‐Markovnikov selectivity (and high enantioselectivities/diastereoselectivities). Additionally, with minimal modification of the reaction conditions, alkynes can also undergo tandem hydrogenation‐hydroaminocarbonylation to alkyl amides.
Synthesis and Characterization of Photoswitchable Dithienylethene‐Based Chiral Bisoxazoline Compounds with Bidirectional Visible‐Light Control
Authors: Wei Hao‐Zhao , Wei Yin , Shi Min
Published: August 2023

In this paper, we have successfully synthesized dithienylethene‐based chiral bisoxazoline ligands with bidirectional photoswitching capabilities under visible light irradiation and proposed a strategy for adjusting the conjugation system length in sensitizer groups. The detailed experimental procedures and the characterization data are presented in the main text and the Supporting Information. Despite their moderate photoswitching rates, these ligands provide a promising approach towards developing fully visible light‐responsive chiral catalysts.
A Novel Approach for Development of Stable Quasi‐Solid Lithium‐O2 Batteries: Assembly and Performances of Double Layer Gel Polymer Electrolytes
Authors: Celik Mustafa , Pakseresht Sara , Al‐Ogaili Ahmed Waleed Majeed , Usta Samet , Akbulut Hatem , Cetinkaya Tugrul
Published: August 2023

Gel‐polymer electrolytes (GPEs) offer a suitable alternative to flammable organic liquid electrolytes in lithium‐oxygen batteries (LOBs) to address safety concerns. However, a major challenge with GPEs is their low ionic conductivity. To enhance the ionic conductivity of GPEs, active inorganic particles have been incorporated. To increase the ionic conductivity of GPE, active inorganic particles have been reinforced in GPE. While this increases the ionic conductivity, it also leads to blockage of the cathode porous structure and reduces the actual surface area of the cathode materials, resulting in poor battery performance. This study proposes a novel double‐layer polymer gel electrolyte (d‐GPE) that exhibits both high ionic conductivity and stability for quasi solid‐state LOBs. The double‐layer GPE consists of a bare GPE layer integrated in the cathode, and a composite GPE (c‐GPE, containing 5 wt. % lithium aluminum titanium phosphate (LATP)), which is in contact with Li anode and bare‐GPE. The produced double‐layer gel polymer electrolyte displays high reaction kinetic and better stability due to the excellent electrode/electrolyte interface and rapid oxygen diffusion in the air‐cathode. Furthermore, the d‐GPE electrolyte is resistant to fire and protects Li from dendrite growth and water molecules attack, indicating tremendous promise for the development of practical LOBs.
Functional communication training and a chained schedule of reinforcement to reduce escape‐maintained challenging behavior related to a daily routine
Authors: Rivera Gabby , Avery Suzannah K. , Gerow Stephanie , Exline Emily
Published: August 2023

Children with autism spectrum disorder often exhibit challenging behavior to avoid exposure to common daily tasks or routines. There is a need to investigate methods to teach appropriate communication to replace challenging behavior and increase tolerance for daily routines. However, the data to support its use to decrease challenging behavior associated with an activity or routine is limited. In the present study, the authors evaluated the use of parent‐implemented functional communication training (FCT) with a modified chained schedule of reinforcement to reduce challenging behavior associated with a nonpreferred daily routine. One 6‐year‐old male diagnosed with autism participated in this study. The functional analysis indicated that he engaged in challenging behavior to terminate throwing trash away. The authors then conducted a treatment evaluation to assess the efficacy of the FCT with a modified chained schedule of reinforcement in reducing challenging behavior and increasing the number of items that could be thrown in the trash. Results indicated that FCT with a modified chained schedule of reinforcement was effective in decreasing challenging behavior.
Machine learning technique unraveled subspecies‐specific ionomic variation with the preferential mineral enrichment in rice
Authors: Tiozon Rhowell N. , Buenafe Reuben J. Q. , Jain Vinay , Sen Partha , Molina Lilia R. , Anacleto Roslen , Sreenivasulu Nese
Published: August 2023

Background and Objectives

To enrich micronutrients in rice through breeding and to identify biofortified donor lines, screening a large diversity panel of major subspecies of rice accessions for their ionomes is necessary.

Findings

Inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectroscopy was deployed to profile grain ionomes from 1100 rice accessions. Classification models derived for multidimensional ionomics data using a random forest model, support vector machine, and artificial neural network predicted three distinct groups that differ in ionomic levels with higher prediction accuracy (76.8%–85.1%). While class A showed inferior lines in mineral content, class B and C represent superior lines with enriched multiple minerals. The identified contrasting lines from the modeling classifications were milled and profiled for minerals and toxic elements using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry and revealed donors with an elevated mineral content even higher than the Zn‐biofortified rice lines.

Conclusion

Overall, the result of this study provided new insights into ionomic variation among subspecies with a preferential enrichment of minerals in temperate japonica and admixed populations coincided with increased grain protein content, while in indica median mineral content is low while selected for increased amylose content.

Significance and Novelty

Artificial intelligence models were developed to predict grains enriched with multiple minerals.
Pancreas divisum in a young patient with chronic abdominal pain as per radiological findings: A case report
Authors: Kayastha Prakash , Pokhrel Biraj , Bhatta Uma , Pathak Roshan , Jha Goody , Paudel Sharma , Suwal Sundar , Regmi Dosti
Published: August 2023

Key Clinical Message

Pancreas divisum (PD) can be one of the causes of unexplained chronic abdominal pain. In PD, the dominant duct drains the majority of the pancreas via the minor papilla, which can be conveyed in the imaging as crossing duct sign.

We report a case a of 16‐year‐old man who presented with unexplained chronic abdominal pain. Contrast‐enhanced computed tomography and magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography showed a bulky pancreas, but his pancreatic enzymes were normal. The crossing duct sign was prominent in imaging, which confirmed the diagnosis of PD.
Aortoiliac graft‐enteric fistula presenting as gastrointestinal hemorrhage: A report on a complex case management
Authors: Azzopardi Michael , Wallace Tom , Khaled Yazan S.
Published: August 2023

Key Clinical Message

Iliac artery‐enteric fistula is a rare cause of lower GI bleeding and can cause life‐threatening consequences. A high degree of clinical suspicion is needed in patients with previous aortic surgery to allow early multidisciplinary intervention.

This case study discusses the staged management of a 78‐year‐old patient presenting with life‐threatening lower gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding secondary to an aortoiliac graft‐enteric fistula (GEF) into the sigmoid colon on the background of an adenocarcinoma and diverticular disease. The patient had an aorto bi‐iliac synthetic dacron graft repair of an abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) some 20 years ago. Here, we present a case of successful endovascular treatment of massive hemorrhage as a bridge to definitive second‐stage dacron graft explant and autologous vein reconstruction with a simultaneous anterior resection.
Modeling and Simulation of a Zeolite Heat Storage with Binderless Zeolites
Authors: Rönsch Stefan , Eichler Johanna , Schmidt Stefan
Published: August 2023

Zeolite heat storages are one measure to contribute to the German Climate Change Act and reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the heating sector. However, due to the challenging process engineering, those storages did not reach a commercial breakthrough yet. To overcome this obstacle, intensive process simulation work is required. Thereby, the simulation models have to pay attention to recent innovations regarding the zeolite synthesis. One of those innovations is the preparation of binderless zeolites. Behind this background, it was achieved by the present work to develop and validate a simulation model for zeolite‐based heat storage processes using binderless zeolites of type NaY.
Probing Interactions between Chiral Plasmonic Nanoparticles and Biomolecules
Authors: Tadgell Ben , Liz‐Marzán Luis M.
Published: August 2023

Chiral plasmonic nanoparticles (and their assemblies) interact with biomolecules in a variety of different ways, resulting in distinct optical signatures when probed by circular dichroism spectroscopy. These systems show promise for biosensing applications and offer several advantages over achiral plasmonic systems. Arguably the most notable advantage is that chiral nanoparticles can differentiate between molecular enantiomers and can, therefore, act as sensors for enantiomeric purity. Furthermore, chiral nanoparticles can couple more effectively to chiral biomolecules in biological systems if they have a matching handedness, improving their effectiveness as biomedical agents. In this article, we review the different types of interactions that occur between chiral plasmonic nanoparticle systems and biomolecules, and discuss how circular dichroism spectroscopy can probe these interactions and inform how to optimize systems for biosensing and biomedical applications.
Amorphous TiO2 shells: an Essential Elastic Buffer Layer for High‐Performance Self‐Healing Eutectic GaSn Nano‐Droplet Room‐Temperature Liquid Metal Battery
Authors: Li Lian , Wang Kaizhao , Wang Kaijun , Chen Tianyou , Wang Jing , Deng Zhongshan , Chen Qingming , Zhang Weijun , Hu Jin
Published: August 2023

Gallium‐based alloy liquid metal batteries currently face limitations such as volume expansion, unstable solid electrolyte interface (SEI) film and substantial capacity decay. In this study, amorphous titanium dioxide is used to coat eutectic GaSn nanodroplets (eGaSn NDs) to construct the core‐shell structure of eGaSn@TiO2 nanodroplets (eGaSn@TiO2 NDs). The amorphous TiO2 shell (~6.5 nm) formed a stable SEI film, alleviated the volume expansion, and provided electron/ion transport channels to achieve excellent cycling performance and high specific capacity. The resulting eGaSn@TiO2 NDs exhibited high capacities of 580, 540, 515, 485, 456 and 426 mAh g−1 at 0.1, 0.2, 0.5, 1, 2 and 5 C, respectively. No significant decay was observed after more than 500 cycles with a capacity of 455 mAh g−1 at 1 C. In situ X‐ray diffraction (in situ XRD) was used to explore the lithiation mechanism of the eGaSn negative electrode during discharge. This study elucidates the design of advanced liquid alloy‐based negative electrode materials for high‐performance liquid metal batteries (LMBs).
Theoretical Prediction of Electrocatalytic Reduction of CO2 Using a 2D Catalyst Composed of 3 d Transition Metal and Hexaamine Dipyrazino Quinoxaline
Authors: Zeng Xianshi , Liao Luliang , Yu Qiming , Wang Meishan , Wang Hongming
Published: August 2023

Transition metals and organic ligands combine to form metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs), which possess distinct active sites, large specific surface areas and stable porous structures, giving them considerable promise for CO2 reduction electrocatalysis. In the present study, using spin polarisation density‐functional theory, a series of 2D MOFs constructed from 3d transition metal and hexamethylene dipyrazoline quinoxaline(HADQ) were investigated. The calculated binding energies between HADQ and metal atoms for the ten TM‐HADQ monolayers were strong sufficient to stably disperse the metal atoms in the HADQ monolayers. Of the ten catalysts tested, seven (Sc, Ni, Cu, Zn, Ti, V and Cr) exhibited high CO2 reduction selectivity, while Mn, Fe and Co required pH values above 2.350, 6.461 and 6.363, respectively, to exhibit CO2 reduction selectivity. HCOOH was the most important producer for Sc, Zn, Ni and Mn, while CH4 was the main producer for Ti, Cr, Fe and V. Cu and Co were less selective, producing HCHO, CH3OH, and CH4 simultaneously at the same rate‐determining step and limiting potential. The Cu‐HADQ catalyst had a high overpotential for the HCHO product (1.022 V), while the other catalysts had lower overpotentials between 0.016 V and 0.792 V. Thus, these results predict TM‐HADQ to show excellent activity in CO2 electrocatalytic reduction and to become a promising electrocatalyst for CO2 reduction.
Numerical study of the gas–solid flow pattern in methanol to olefiens fluidized bed reactor: Cold model
Authors: Gholami Fatemeh , Movahedirad Salman , Sobati Mohammad Amin , Babaei Mojtaba
Published: August 2023

In the present study, the hydrodynamic behaviour of a three‐dimensional bubbling fluidized bed reactor was studied using the finite volume method and granular kinetic theory. The effect of two types of gas distributors (i.e., perforated and porous plates) on the gas/solid hydrodynamic was investigated. The residence time distribution model was utilized to check the deviation of the gas flow pattern from the ideal flow patterns for two types of distributors. The parameters indicating the degree of back‐mixing, such as mean residence time and dimensionless variance, were calculated. Also, the model was verified through the comparison of the particle velocity with experimental data obtained by the particle image velocimetry–digital image processing (PIV‐DIA) technique. It was found that the gas flow pattern in the present bubbling fluidized bed is closer to the mixed flow than the plug flow pattern. It was also found that the porous plate distributor gives more uniform hydrodynamic distributions of gas and solid in the bed, which results in better gas–solid mixing due to the formation of the smaller bubbles.
Topographic organization in the cerebellar nuclei and inferior olive in relation to cerebellar hemispheric lobules in the mouse: Distinction between crus I and neighboring lobules
Authors: Owusu‐Mensah Richard Nana Abankwah , Sarpong Gideon Anokye , Sugihara Izumi
Published: August 2023

The parallel closed‐loop topographic connections between subareas of the inferior olive (IO), cerebellar cortex, and cerebellar nuclei (CN) define the fundamental modular organization of the cerebellum. The cortical modules or zones are organized into longitudinal zebrin stripes which are extended across transverse cerebellar lobules. However, how cerebellar lobules, which are related to the cerebellar functional localization, are incorporated into the olivo‐cortico‐nuclear topographic organization has not been fully clarified. In the present study, we analyzed the lobular topography in the CN and IO by making 57 small bidirectional tracer injections in the lateral zebrin‐positive stripes equivalent with C2, D1, and D2 zones in every hemispheric lobule in zebrin stripe‐visualized mice.

C2, D1, and D2 zones were connected to the lateral part of the posterior interpositus nucleus (lPIN), and caudal and rostral parts of the lateral nucleus (cLN, rLN), respectively, and from the rostral part of the medial accessory olive (rMAO), and ventral and dorsal lamellas of the PO (vPO, dPO), respectively, as reported. Within these areas, crus I was specifically connected to the ventral parts of the lPIN, cLN, and rLN, and from the rostrolateral part of the rMAO and the lateral parts of the vPO and dPO.

The results indicated that the cerebellar modules have lobule‐related subdivisions and that crus I is topographically distinct from other lobules. We speculate that crus I and crus I‐connected subdivisions in the CN and IO are involved more in nonmotor functions than other neighboring areas in the mouse.
Preparation of glucuronides using liver microsomes and their characterization by 1D/2D NMR spectroscopy and mass spectrometry: Application to fentanyl metabolites
Authors: Kanamori Tatsuyuki , Okada Yuki , Segawa Hiroki , Yamamuro Tadashi , Kuwayama Kenji , Tsujikawa Kenji , Iwata Yuko T.
Published: August 2023

A simple, low‐cost method for preparing glucuronic acid‐conjugated metabolites was developed using fentanyl, a potent synthetic opioid, as a model drug. Five glucuronic acid‐conjugated metabolites of fentanyl were measured in the culture medium of fresh human hepatocytes incubated with fentanyl. These glucuronides were also formed by incubation of their corresponding substrates (e.g., 4′‐hydroxy‐fentanyl and β‐hydroxy‐fentanyl) with uridine 5′‐diphosphoglucuronic acid and human liver microsomes (HLM). Experiments using liver microsomes of several animals revealed that significant species differences exist in the glucuronide formation patterns; fentanyl glucuronide was only formed in HLM, and 4′‐hydroxy‐fentanyl glucuronide was formed much more in rat liver microsomes (RLM) than HLM and dog liver microsomes. Furthermore, surprisingly, HLM and RLM showed opposite substrate selectivity for the enantiomers of β‐hydroxy‐fentanyl. Submilligram amounts of three of these metabolites, namely, 4′‐hydroxy‐fentanyl glucuronide and two glucuronides of β‐hydroxy‐fentanyl, were prepared by using HLM or RLM. The products were readily purified with a reversed‐phase/anion‐exchange mixed‐mode solid‐phase extraction cartridge, and then, their chemical structures were confirmed by 1D/2D nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy and mass spectrometry data. In addition, the products were quantitated by quantitative NMR, and the yields were 3.6–69%.
Ring Transformation of α‐Amino‐β‐oxoesters to δ‐Butyrolactams
Authors: Krieger Daniel , Christoffers Jens
Published: August 2023

δ‐Butyrolactams with an exocyclic ester moiety in the δ‐position were accessed by reduction of 1‐azido‐2‐cyclopentanone carboxylates with PBu3 or Zn−AcOH. The ring transformation proceeded readily under the conditions of this reduction which is an unprecedented process. Primary amines formed by catalytic hydrogenation of α‐azido‐β‐oxoesters with larger ring sizes or with benzannulation do not show this rearrangement under the conditions of the azide reduction. In these cases, the ring transformation to respective lactams was achieved by treatment of the α‐amino‐β‐oxoesters with a stoichiometric amount of lithium diisopropylamide.
Hydraulischer Grundbruch in runden Baugruben mit Entspannungsbohrungen
Authors: Andermahr Nicholas , Ziegler Martin
Published: August 2023

Der Einsatz von Entspannungsbohrungen zur Verringerung der Auswirkungen einer vertikal nach oben gerichteten Strömung hat sich als konstruktive Maßnahme bewährt, um die Gefahr eines hydraulischen Grundbruchs bei Baugruben im Grundwasser zu vermeiden. In den gültigen Normen und Regelwerken werden allerdings lediglich allgemeine Hinweise zur Verwendung von Entspannungsbohrungen gegeben. Ein Konzept, um den Nachweis gegen hydraulischen Grundbruch unter Verwendung von Entspannungsbohrungen zu führen, fehlt bislang ebenso wie definierte Angaben zu deren Anordnung und dem Einfluss der Baugrubengeometrie. Daher war das Ziel einer Forschungsarbeit am Lehrstuhl für Geotechnik der RWTH Aachen University die Erstellung eines Nachweiskonzepts gegen hydraulischen Grundbruch bei Anordnung von Entspannungsbohrungen. Als Ergebnis entstand ein Berechnungsansatz, mit dem unter Berücksichtigung der Strömungsverhältnisse beim Einsatz von Entspannungsbohrungen die Geometrie des maßgebenden Bruchkörpers ermittelt werden kann. An diesem Bruchkörper kann anschließend der Nachweis gegen hydraulischen Grundbruch geführt werden. Darauf aufbauend wurden letztlich für typische Baugrubengeometrien Bemessungsdiagramme in dimensionsloser Darstellung erstellt.
Is Africa's food insecurity linked to land use coverage, irrigation adoption and water scarcity?
Authors: Bedasa Yadeta
Published: August 2023

The low agricultural yield and production in Africa, ongoing food insecurity and ineffective use of farm inputs are the main motivations for this study. Hence, to increase agricultural productivity, fundamental adjustments to resource management and policy are needed. However, there has been little prior research on how Africa's food security is affected by inadequate land usage and water availability. As a result, farmers are given access to insufficient water projects, which lowers agricultural productivity due to ineffective government operations and poor water resource management. Despite many unfavourable changes to their rainfed agricultural systems, many smallholder farmers have not embraced irrigation investment. The results of this study indicated that more irrigation and better management of land were required to increase productivity in water‐scarce areas. The acceptance of irrigation by farmers greatly depends on their social and cultural knowledge, their participation in new projects, methods and technologies, as well as their capacity to adapt. The key policy implication is an increase in irrigation in an effort to boost agricultural growth and reduce food insecurity. It is advised that the participation of stakeholders, planners and policymakers at all levels is the foundation of water development and management.
Assessing carcass relocation for offsetting golden eagle mortality at wind energy facilities
Authors: Lonsdorf Eric V. , Gerber James S. , Ray Deepak , Slater Steven J. , Allison Taber D.
Published: August 2023

As wind energy expands to achieve the United States' net zero emission goals, compensatory mitigation will be required to offset negative effects on birds and bats. The golden eagle (Aquila chrysaetos) is particularly susceptible to collision with wind turbines, but only 1 option for offsetting mortalities has been approved by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service despite many sources of anthropogenic‐caused mortality. We update a previously developed vehicle‐collision model with data collected during 3 winters from 2016 to 2019 and integrate a resource equivalency analysis so that relocation of road‐killed game animals can be used as mitigation to offset incidental mortality. We parameterized golden eagle behaviors using motion‐sensitive cameras placed at roadside carcasses. We quantified the effects of different carcass‐relocation schemes based on vehicle and carcass characteristics observed for Wyoming, USA. Our model results indicate that while eagles saved per relocated carcass depends on relocation interval and vehicle traffic volume, carcass relocation is a viable mitigation strategy; up to 7 eagles could be saved each year in some counties. While some uncertainty remains about the precise credit received from each carcass relocated, delaying the inclusion of additional mitigation methods prevents opportunities for conservation action. An adaptive management program could be a way forward where management and monitoring are combined to further improve estimates of mitigation credit.
Development of Automated Tool for Electrode Array Insertion and its Study on Intracochlear Pressure
Authors: Zagabathuni Aparna , Padi Kishore Kumar , Kameswaran Mohan , Subramani Kanagaraj
Published: August 2023

Cochlear implantation is the most successful approach for people with profound sensorineural hearing loss. Manual insertion of the electrode array may result in damaging the soft tissue structures and basilar membrane. An automated electrode array insertion device is reported to be less traumatic in cochlear implant surgery.

Objectives

The present work develops a simple, reliable, and compact device for automatically inserting the electrode array during cochlear implantation and test the device to observe intracochlear pressure during simulated electrode insertion.

Methods

The device actuates the electrode array by a roller mechanism. For testing the automated device, a straight cochlea having the dimension of the scala tympani and a model electrode is developed using a 3D printer. A pressure sensor is utilized to observe the pressure change at different insertional conditions.

Results

The electrode is inserted into a prototype cochlea at different speeds without any pause, and it is noticed that the pressure is increased with the depth of insertion of the electrode irrespective of the speed of electrode insertion. The rate of pressure change is observed to be increased exponentially with the speed of insertion.

Conclusion

At an insertion speed of 0.15 mm/s, the peak pressure is observed to be 133 Pa, which can be further evaluated in anatomical models for clinical scenarios.

Level of Evidence

N/A Laryngoscope, 134:1388–1395, 2024
Interarytenoid injection outcomes in pediatric feeding disorders
Authors: Stack Taylor J. , Carrasco Maria C. , Shah Joel , Zdanski Carlton J. , Roberts Jason
Published: August 2023

Objectives

Type 1 laryngeal clefts (LC1) and deep interarytenoid grooves contribute to pediatric feeding disorders. Management of these defects remains heterogeneous among surgeons and interarytenoid injection augmentation (IIA) is not always offered as a treatment option. This study evaluated IIA outcomes among a pediatric patient cohort comprised mostly of those with deep interarytenoid grooves.

Methods

A single‐institution retrospective chart review featured children under the age of 5 years presenting for aspiration, dysphagia, or choking. Over the period of 7 years (January 2014–October 2021), 39 met inclusion criteria and had sufficient follow‐up data. Descriptive statistics and subgroup analyses were performed.

Results

Of the 39 included patients, 76.92% had clinical improvement post‐injection, with the mean time to follow‐up being 47 days. Within the deep interarytenoid groove group, improvement rates were 82.76%. Bronchoscopy findings revealed 29 (74.36%) patients with a DIG, 3 (7.69%) with LC1, 3 (7.69%) with no anatomic abnormality, and 4 (10.26%) with vocal cord paralysis. There were no adverse events. There were no associations with the outcomes based on subgroup analysis and logistic regression.

Conclusions

IIA is an effective and safe treatment for pediatric feeding disorders. No covariates were associated with symptom improvement. Within the deep interarytenoid groove diagnosis subgroup, IIA effectively improved symptoms. Further investigations are needed to explore predictors of success with IIA in this population.

Level of Evidence

VI.
Structure–Property Relationships of Solution‐Processable Diarylethene‐Based Main‐Chain Photochromic Polymers
Authors: Gwebu Sandile , Marshall David , Sonar Prashant , Philippa Bronson , Vamvounis George
Published: August 2023

A series of alternating copolymers of a dithienylethene with di‐n‐alkyl‐fluorene (P1–P3), di‐n‐hexylphenylene (P4), 9‐heptadecanylcarbazole (P5), and 4,8‐bis(3,5‐dioctyl‐2‐thienyl)‐1,5‐dithia‐s‐indacene (P6) are designed, synthesized, and characterized. All of the polymers are soluble in common organic solvents such as chloroform, dichloromethane, toluene, and tetrahydrofuran. The side‐chain length affected the solubility of the polymer, molecular weight, and the glass transition temperature. Solutions of P1–P6 show photochromism with high quantum yields of 6‐π electrocyclization (41–87%) and cycloreversion (0.4–1.1%). These polymers also formed uniform thin films and the rates of solid state photoisomerization are measured relative to P4, which has the highest cyclization and cycloreversion rates. The color of the photochromic polymer is tuned according to the comonomer and the maximum absorption wavelength ranged from 569 to 675 nm in the closed isomeric form. All the polymers are thermally stable and show no signs of photodegradation after being exposed to UV‐light for 120 min in air. Based on these promising results, these polymers may be useful for multifunctional organic electronic devices.
The key importance of spending on research and development in Formula One
Authors: Loník Ivan , Kotrba Vojtěch
Published: August 2023

This paper analyzes the impact of budget strategy on Formula One team success in the World Constructors Championship using data from 11 seasons (2010–2020) before the budget cap. It demonstrates that budget strategy positively affects standings, points, podium finishes, and race completion. The motivation to achieve better results is explained through success‐related returns. Cost–benefit analysis and regression models were employed, revealing a significant influence of budget strategy on team success. Investing in research and development emerges as the most effective approach to enhance the success rate.
Affordable, state‐of‐the‐art, magnetic resonance imaging scanners: Design and manufacturing insights
Authors: Padarthi Swathy , Prabakar Akash , Deshpande Srinivasa Rao , Udupa Shankar Murthy , Arunachalam Arjun
Published: August 2023

In the current study, design and manufacturing insights into the development of affordable, state‐of‐the‐art, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanners are provided, and imaging results to demonstrate their viability are presented. Perspectives on affordability and accessibility are given, followed by a set of scanner specifications that, if met, can satisfy these criteria. Next, the architecture of a concept scanner that can satisfy some of these requirements is outlined and explained in detail. Specific insights into the design modifications that can enable reductions in power consumption, weight, and form factors are provided. Scanner performance benchmarking via large American College of Radiology phantom imaging tests is reported. Human volunteer imaging results are shown for the most common clinical contrasts to establish viability and demonstrate body coverage. In summary, a ground‐up approach for designing state‐of‐the‐art, yet affordable, MRI scanners is described, along with insights into the future steps that must be taken to ensure genuine accessibility and affordability.
Synthesis and Fungicidal Activities of Benzofuran‐Substitutes Cinnamamide Compounds
Authors: Fang Jun , Zhu Yixian , Zeng Xihuang , Lin Xiaohan , Deng Bin , Lu Yinghua , Tu Song
Published: August 2023

The commercially available dimethomorph is a mixture of two isomers, among which Z‐ dimethomorph has an excellent control effect against oomycetes, while E‐dimethomorph has less fungicidal activity. Therefore, in this paper, a series of novel benzofuran‐modified cinnamamide derivatives were designed and synthesized by “fixing” the cis‐styrene group in Z‐dimethomorph with benzofuran group. And the modification of the molecular structure of cinnamamide compounds could be beneficial to improve its practical application performance. The synthesized products were evaluated for their antifungal activity against 7 strains of phytopathogenic fungi. It was found that the antifungal spectrum and fungicidal activities of some compounds were improved compared with the commercial fungicides dimethomorph and flumorph. Furthermore, for benzofuran‐modified cinnamamide derivatives, substituted bis‐methoxy in the phenyl ring of cinnamate is crucial to inhibit Phytophthora infestans and Phytophthora dreschsleri.
ÖBB‐Trogbrücken mit UHPFRC‐Verbundplatte
Authors: Kuss Stefan , Zimmermann Welf
Published: August 2023

Im Streckennetz der Österreichischen Bundesbahnen befinden sich zahlreiche einfeldrige Brückenobjekte kurzer Spannweite (<20 m) in Stahlbauweise ohne Schotterbettaufbau. Eines dieser Brückenobjekte war die Auenbachbrücke auf der Strecke Zeltweg–St. Paul im Lavanttal (Kärnten, Österreich), die im Zuge der Bestandsattraktivierung der Lavanttalbahn durch ein modernes Tragwerk mit Schotterbettaufbau ersetzt werden sollte. Die Kernaufgabe beim Entwurf des Tragwerks lag in der Beibehaltung der Bestandsschienenoberkante, um Eingriffe in die Streckenführung zu vermeiden, sowie der Konstruktionsunterkante, aufgrund eines vorliegenden Hochwasserschutzprojekts des Auenbachs. Diese Aufgabe konnte unter Anwendung eines Trogquerschnitts in Stahlbauweise mit einer in Querrichtung gespannten UHPFRC‐Verbundplatte realisiert werden, die Schubsicherung in der Verbundplatte wurde mittels Verbunddübelleisten gewährleistet. Im vorliegenden Beitrag wird die Konstruktionsweise des Tragwerks erläutert sowie die zugehörigen statischen Berechnungen und begleitenden Versuche vorgestellt.
MUC1 promotes lymph node metastasis in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma by downregulating DNAJB6 expression
Authors: Ma Guanqiang , Liu Xiangyan , Shi Mo
Published: August 2023

Background

Aberrant expression of MUC1 correlates with the progression of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC), this study aimed to explore the effect of targeting MUC1 by Go‐203 on malignant behavior of ESCC and the underlying mechanism.

Methods and Results

IHC was used to examine the expression of MUC1 and DNAJB6 in ESCC samples. qRT–PCR and western blotting were used to examine the expression of MUC1 and DNAJB6 in ESCC cell lines. CCK8, wound healing, and transwell assays were used to determine the effect of regulating MUC1/DNAJB6 on the proliferation, migration, and invasion of ESCC cells. The effect of overexpressing/targeting MUC1 on the activation of the AKT/HSF‐1 pathway was determined by western blotting. A negative correlation was confirmed between the expression of DNAJB6 and MUC1 in ESCC tissue samples by IHC, and high expression of MUC1 and low expression of DNAJB6 correlated with lymph node metastasis in ESCC patients. Overexpressing MUC1 downregulated the expression of DNAJB6, promoted ESCC proliferation, invasion, migration and activated the AKT pathway, while targeting MUC1 suppressed proliferation, invasion, migration, and the AKT pathway and up‐regulated DNAJB6 expression in vitro. Moreover, MUC1 increased the phosphorylation of HSF‐1 via the AKT pathway, and inhibiting AKT‐HSF‐1 increased the expression of DNAJB6 in vitro.

Conclusions

This study indicated that MUC1 could promote tumorigenesis and metastasis in ESCC by downregulating DNAJB6 expression through AKT‐HSF‐1 pathway.
Plebanski-Demianski goes NUTs (to remove the Misner string)
Authors: Astorino Marco , Boldi Giovanni
Published: August 2023

Abstract

We present a general procedure, based on the Ehlers transformation of the Ernst equations, to add the gravitomagnetic mass to the whole Plebanski-Demianski family of solutions. We can efficiently generate a large class of accelerating black holes, such as Reissner-Nordstrom or Kerr-Newman, endowed with the NUT parameter. The full rotating version carries a couple of independent NUT charges, one associated to the black hole and the other to the accelerating Rindler background.

The two NUT parameters can be coupled to remove the axial irregularity which causes the Misner string, still remaining with a Lorentzian spacetime, without the need to impose periodic time.

All the metrics we build are not of D-type according to the Petrov classification, but type-I, so they belong to a more general category with respect to C-metrics and the Plebanski-Demianski seed.

A convenient form of the most general type D black hole solution in general relativity, coupled with Maxwell electromagnetism, is obtained when switching off one of the two NUT parameters.
The mechanistic role of cardiac glycosides in DNA damage response and repair signaling
Authors: Ainembabazi Diana , Zhang Youwei , Turchi John J.
Published: August 2023

Cardiac glycosides (CGs) are a class of bioactive organic compounds well-known for their application in treating heart disease despite a narrow therapeutic window. Considerable evidence has demonstrated the potential to repurpose CGs for cancer treatment. Chemical modification of these CGs has been utilized in attempts to increase their anti-cancer properties; however, this has met limited success as their mechanism of action is still speculative. Recent studies have identified the DNA damage response (DDR) pathway as a target of CGs. DDR serves to coordinate numerous cellular pathways to initiate cell cycle arrest, promote DNA repair, regulate replication fork firing and protection, or induce apoptosis to avoid the survival of cells with DNA damage or cells carrying mutations. Understanding the modus operandi of cardiac glycosides will provide critical information to better address improvements in potency, reduced toxicity, and the potential to overcome drug resistance. This review summarizes recent scientific findings of the molecular mechanisms of cardiac glycosides affecting the DDR signaling pathway in cancer therapeutics from 2010 to 2022. We focus on the structural and functional differences of CGs toward identifying the critical features for DDR targeting of these agents.
In vitro studies on the dependence of drug deposition in dentin on drug concentration, contact time, and the physicochemical properties of the drugs
Authors: Klima Miriam , Auwärter Volker , Altenburger Markus J. , Neukamm Merja A.
Published: August 2023

The chemical analysis of dental hard tissues can provide information on previous drug use due to the deposition of drugs into this tissue. For the interpretation of analytical results in, e.g., postmortem toxicology or regarding archeological samples, the influence of drug dosing, consumption frequency, duration of intake and type of drug on analyte concentrations in teeth has to be characterized. To approximate these correlations, in vitro models were applied to investigate the time dependency of drug deposition via and against pulp pressure (perfusion studies) and the concentration dependency of drug deposition via oral cavity (incubation study) as well as the influence of de- and remineralization (pH cycling) on the incorporation of drugs in bovine dentin pellets. Some of the drugs of abuse most relevant in forensic case work (amphetamines, opiates, cocaine and benzoylecgonine) were applied. Concentrations in dentin samples were analyzed by liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS) after pulverization and extraction via ultrasonication with methanol. The studies showed that drug deposition in dentin likely depends on the physicochemical properties of the drug molecules as well as on the duration of contact with drugs via the blood stream and on drug concentrations present in the oral cavity. Higher drug concentrations in teeth can result from a more frequent or longer drug use. In addition, intake of higher doses or oral/inhalative consumption can also be expected to lead to higher drug concentrations. These findings can be helpful for the interpretation of postmortem cases.
Side-by-side comparison of the two widely studied GRPR radiotracers, radiolabeled NeoB and RM2, in a preclinical setting
Authors: Damiana T. S. T. , Paraïso P. , de Ridder C. , Stuurman D. , Seimbille Y. , Dalm S. U.
Published: August 2023

Introduction

NeoB and RM2 are the most investigated gastrin-releasing peptide receptor (GRPR)–targeting radiotracers in preclinical and clinical studies. Therefore, an extensive side-by-side comparison of the two radiotracers is valuable to demonstrate whether one has advantages over the other. Accordingly, this study aims to compare the in vitro and in vivo characteristics of radiolabeled NeoB and RM2 to guide future clinical studies.

Method

The stability of the radiolabeled GRPR analogs was determined in phosphate buffered saline (PBS), and commercially available mouse and human serum. Target affinity was determined by incubating human prostate cancer PC-3 cells with [177Lu]Lu-NeoB or [177Lu]Lu-RM2, + / − increasing concentrations of unlabeled NeoB, RM2, or Tyr4-bombesin (BBN). To determine uptake and specificity cells were incubated with [177Lu]Lu-NeoB or [177Lu]Lu-RM2 + / − Tyr4-BBN. Moreover, in vivo studies were performed to determine biodistribution and pharmacokinetics. Finally, radiotracer binding to various GRPR-expressing human cancer tissues was investigated.

Results

Both radiotracers demonstrated high stability in PBS and human serum, but stability in mouse serum decreased substantially over time. Moreover, both radiotracers demonstrated high GRPR affinity and specificity, but a higher uptake of [177Lu]Lu-NeoB was observed in in vitro studies. In vivo, no difference in tumor uptake was seen. The most prominent difference in uptake in physiological organs was observed in the GRPR-expressing pancreas; [177Lu]Lu-RM2 had less pancreatic uptake and a shorter pancreatic half-life than [177Lu]Lu-NeoB. Furthermore, [177Lu]Lu-RM2 presented with a lower tumor-to-kidney ratio, while the tumor-to-blood ratio was lower for [177Lu]Lu-NeoB. The autoradiography studies revealed higher binding of radiolabeled NeoB to all human tumor tissues.

Conclusion

Based on these findings, we conclude that the in vivo tumor-targeting capability of radiolabeled NeoB and RM2 is similar. Additional studies are needed to determine whether the differences observed in physiological organ uptakes, i.e., the pancreas, kidneys, and blood, result in relevant differences in organ absorbed doses when the radiotracers are applied for therapeutic purposes.
En bloc resection of bladder tumour: the rebirth of past through reminiscence
Authors: Teoh Jeremy Yuen-Chun , D’Andrea David , Gallioli Andrea , Yanagisawa Takafumi , MacLennan Steven , Nicoletti Rossella , Fai Ng Chi , Maffei Davide , Hurle Rodolfo , Lusuardi Lukas , Malavaud Bernard , Miki Jun , Kramer Mario , Mostafid Hugh , Enikeev Dmitry , Babjuk Marek , Breda Alberto , Shariat Shahrokh , Gontero Paolo , Herrmann Thomas
Published: August 2023

Purpose

To learn about the history and development of en bloc resection of bladder tumour (ERBT), and to discuss its future directions in managing bladder cancer.

Methods

In this narrative review, we summarised the history and early development of ERBT, previous attempts in overcoming the tumour size limitation, consolidative effort in standardising the ERBT procedure, emerging evidence in ERBT, evolving concepts in treating large bladder tumours, and the future directions of ERBT.

Results

Since the first report on ERBT in 1980, there has been tremendous advancement in terms of its technique, energy modalities and tumour retrieval methods. In 2020, the international consensus statement on ERBT has been developed and it serves as a standard reference for urologists to practise ERBT. Recently, high-quality evidence on ERBT has been emerging. Of note, the EB-StaR study showed that ERBT led to a reduction in 1-year recurrence rate from 38.1 to 28.5%. An individual patient data meta-analysis is currently underway, and it will be instrumental in defining the true value of ERBT in treating non-muscle-invasive bladder cancer. For large bladder tumours, modified approaches of ERBT should be accepted, as the quality of resection is more important than a mere removal of tumour in one piece. The global ERBT registry has been launched to study the value of ERBT in a real-world setting.

Conclusion

ERBT is a promising surgical technique in treating bladder cancer and it has gained increasing interest globally. It is about time for us to embrace this technique in our clinical practice.
Examining the past 120 years’ climate dynamics of Ethiopia
Authors: Berihun Mulatu Liyew , Tsunekawa Atsushi , Haregeweyn Nigussie , Tsubo Mitsuru , Yasuda Hiroshi , Fenta Ayele Almaw , Dile Yihun Taddele , Bayabil Haimanote Kebede , Tilahun Seifu Admassu
Published: August 2023

Climate change is one of the environmental threats around the globe. However, this change is not uniform throughout the world, both spatially and temporally. This study, therefore, examined the spatiotemporal (annual and seasonal) variability and trends of rainfall and temperature over Ethiopia from 1901 to 2020. Monthly rainfall and temperature (maximum, minimum, and mean) data were extracted from the latest version of the Climatic Research Unit (CRU 4.05) dataset. Using long-term seasonal rainfall patterns and pixel-based correlation techniques, five homogeneous rainfall zones were identified. The rainfall and temperature from CRU were validated using observed data from 235 and 145 meteorological stations, respectively. The results revealed that inter-seasonal rainfall and temperature variabilities are more pronounced than interannual variabilities in all rainfall zones. Only 19% (215,700 km2) and 3% (33, 900 km2) of the country’s total area experienced statistically significant (α = 0.05) decreasing and increasing trends of rainfall, respectively from 1901 to 2020. A statistically significant decreasing trend in rainfall with time was observed during the summer in only one zone that received rainfall in all months. A precipitation concentration index analysis revealed that the country exhibited a moderate to strongly irregular annual and seasonal rainfall distribution, except during the summer when the rainfall distribution was uniform. There was hence a high degree of rainfall seasonality throughout the study period. In addition to the devastating 1984 nationwide drought, Ethiopia also experienced local droughts for a number of 10 to 20 years. Unlike rainfall, there was a significant (α = 0.05) spatiotemporal increasing trend of temperature over the country. The spatial and temporal increasing trend of mean temperature over 120 years ranged from 0.24oC to 1.92oC and 0.72oC to 1.08oC, respectively. This increasing trend was higher in two zones located in the western and northwest parts of Ethiopia and the inflection points occurred after the 1970s in all zones. It is noteworthy that the maximum temperature increased at a lower rate than the minimum temperature. The warming trends and changes in rainfall patterns are likely to increase the frequency of climate extreme events and impact ecosystem services. This study suggests that climate change-sensitive zones require more attention and further study to enhance awareness of climate change in Ethiopia and facilitate adaptation to climate change and inform actions to mitigate adverse effects.