bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analisis Pengaruh Car, Npl, Ldr dan Dana Pihak Ketiga Terhadap Profitabilitas Pada PT BPR Sukawati Pancakanti Kecamatan Sukawati
Authors: Dewi Ni Komang Krisma , Sukanti Ni Ketut , Amrita Nyoman Dwika Ayu
Published: December 2023

This study aims to determine the effect simultaneously or partially on profitability at PT. BPR Sukawati Pancakanti for the period 2013-2020. The sampling technique in this study is to use the saturated sample technique. Data were analyzed using the classic assumption test, multiple linear regression test, determination analysis, simultaneous significance test (F-test), and partial significance test (t-test). The results in this study indicate that CAR, NPL, LDR, and Third Party Funds simultaneously have a significant effect on ROA. CAR have a partially positive and significant effect on ROA. NPL have a partially negative and significant effect on ROA. LDR have a partially positive and significant effect on ROA. Third Party Funds have a partially positive and significant effect on ROA at PT. BPR Sukawati Pancakanti for the period 2013-2020.
Implementasi Manajemen Layanan Perpustakaan Umum pada Dinas Perpustakaan dan Arsip Kabupaten Tabanan
Authors: Anggreni Putri , Dewi Nur Mala
Published: December 2023

This study aims to analyze the implementation of public library service management at the Tabanan Regency Library and Archives Service. This research is qualitative research. The results showed that the implementation of library service management at the Tabanan Regency Library and Archives Service had been implemented but was not optimal because there were still problems in its implementation. Planning (planning) at the Tabanan Regency Library and Archives Service has been carried out properly through the implementation of technical guidance for employees. Organizing, the availability of facilities and infrastructure resources at the Tabanan Regency Library and Archives Service still does not meet the needs of all levels of society in general. The actuating has been carried out but is not optimal due to inadequate human resources, limited funds owned by the Tabanan Regency Library and Archives Service in implementing the program, the lack of a collection of reading books owned by the Tabanan Regency Library and Archives Service. Supervision (controlling) shows that supervision has been carried out through regular meetings, tiered supervision, supervision of employee discipline but has not been optimal because the government's attention is still low on the development of public library functions.
Nares Strait and the drift of Greenland: a conflict in plate tectonics: Introduction
Authors: Dawes P. R. , Kerr J. W. Kerr
Published: December 2023

Abstract not relevant.
Postglacial emergence along northern Nares Strait
Authors: England John
Published: December 2023

During the last glaciation much of northern Nares Strait remained an ice-free corridor separating the northeast Ellesmere Island and northwest Greenland ice sheets. The disproportionate size of these ice sheets resulted in the lithosphere being differentially loaded on either side of this prominent rift valley. Postglacial emergence in this area is analyzed in order to determine whether glacio-isostatic unloading engendered any abnormal displacement along the Nares Strait fault zone. Present data suggest that synchronous shorelines dated 6000, 7000 and 8000 BP rise from north to south across northeast Ellesmere Island and northern Nares Strait towards the Greenland ice sheet. This is considered to represent the glacio-isostatic dominance of the Greenland ice sheet during the last glaciation together with earlier postglacial emergence towards northernmost Ellesmere Island which lay beyond the influence of the Greenland ice sheet. This Greenland dominance indicates that northeast Ellesmere Island lay in the depression marginal to the Greenland ice sheet. This, in turn, requires a lithospheric flexural parameter extending in an undisrupted manner across the Nares Strait rift valley. Hence, on a regional scale, it appears that the lithosphere in this area has integrated the depressions from these separated ice sheets without any observable unconformities along Nares Strait. Although postglacial faulting has followed initial glacio-isostatic unloading in other areas the present data base does not have the resolution to document similar events along Nares Strait.
The genomic footprint of social stratification in admixing American populations
Authors: Mas-Sandoval Alex , Mathieson Sara , Fumagalli Matteo
Published: December 2023

Cultural and socioeconomic differences stratify human societies and shape their genetic structure beyond the sole effect of geography. Despite mating being limited by sociocultural stratification, most demographic models in population genetics often assume random mating. Taking advantage of the correlation between sociocultural stratification and the proportion of genetic ancestry in admixed populations, we sought to infer the former process in the Americas. To this aim, we define a mating model where the individual proportions of the genome inherited from Native American, European, and sub-Saharan African ancestral populations constrain the mating probabilities through ancestry-related assortative mating and sex bias parameters. We simulate a wide range of admixture scenarios under this model. Then, we train a deep neural network and retrieve good performance in predicting mating parameters from genomic data. Our results show how population stratification, shaped by socially constructed racial and gender hierarchies, has constrained the admixture processes in the Americas since the European colonization and the subsequent Atlantic slave trade.
Regulation of multiple signaling pathways promotes the consistent expansion of human pancreatic progenitors in defined conditions
Authors: Jarc Luka , Bandral Manuj , Zanfrini Elisa , Lesche Mathias , Kufrin Vida , Sendra Raquel , Pezzolla Daniela , Giannios Ioannis , Khattak Shahryar , Neumann Katrin , Ludwig Barbara , Gavalas Anthony
Published: December 2023

The unlimited expansion of human progenitor cells in vitro could unlock many prospects for regenerative medicine. However, it remains an important challenge as it requires the decoupling of the mechanisms supporting progenitor self-renewal and expansion from those mechanisms promoting their differentiation. This study focuses on the expansion of human pluripotent stem (hPS) cell derived pancreatic progenitors (PP) to advance novel therapies for diabetes.We obtained mechanistic insights into PP expansion requirements and, through a hypothesis-driven iterative approach, identified conditions for the robust and unlimited expansion of hPS cell derived PP cells under GMP-compliant conditions. We show that the combined stimulation of specific mitogenic pathways, suppression of retinoic acid signaling and inhibition of selected branches of the TGFβ and Wnt signaling pathways are necessary for the effective decoupling of PP proliferation from differentiation. This enabled the reproducible, 2000-fold, over ten passages and 40-45 days, expansion of PDX1
+
/SOX9
+
/NKX6-1
+
PP cells. Transcriptome analyses confirmed the stabilisation of PP identity and the effective suppression of differentiation. Using these conditions, PDX1
+
/SOX9
+
/NKX6-1
+
PP cells, derived from different, both XY and XX, hPS cells lines, were enriched to nearly 90% homogeneity and expanded with very similar kinetics and efficiency. Furthermore, non-expanded and expanded PP cells, from different hPS cell lines, were differentiated in microwells into homogeneous islet-like clusters (SC-islets) with very similar efficiency. These clusters contained abundant β-cells of comparable functionality as assessed by glucose-stimulated insulin secretion assays.These findings established the signaling requirements to decouple PP proliferation from differentiation and allowed the consistent expansion of hPS cell derived PP cells. They will enable the establishment of large banks of GMP-derived PP cells derived from diverse hPS cell lines. This approach will streamline SC-islet production for further development of the differentiation process, diabetes research, personalized medicine and cell therapies.
Exploring the Relationship between Psychosocial Risk Factors and Sudden Unexplained Infant Death: A Study of Autopsy Cases from a Perspective of Child Welfare
Authors: Jung KyuHee , Lee Junghwa , Choi Inseok , Yang Kyung-moo , Park Jae-hong , Kim Heesong
Published: December 2023

Infants who are born between 24 hours and 1 year of age require extreme caution in their care due to their fragility. However, if there are multiple risk factors associated with the infant, caretaker, household, and surrounding circumstances, providing proper and appropriate care becomes problematic. This difficulty in caring for infants can contribute to abuse, neglect, or even death. This study investigates unexplained infant deaths that occur in the presence of multiple psychosocial risk factors. This study aimed to explore the relationship between various psychosocial risk factors and sudden, unexplained infant deaths. We examined nine cases from the autopsy archive of the National Forensic Service using a statistical approach. Among these cases, three were subject to legal action, while six were closed without further legal process. Although it was difficult to establish a clear relationship between death and abuse or neglect in the six cases, all were found to have experienced a harsh environment that was similar to abuse or neglect. We discuss the implications of our findings for understanding infant deaths and legal outcomes and propose a new framework to understand the deaths of infants.
Assessment of the Effect of Garcinia kola (Clusiaceae) on the Carbon Sequestration Capacity and Productivity of Cocoa (Theobroma cacao L) in Cocoa-Based Agroforestry Systems
Authors: Alban M’bo Kacou Antoine , Jean-Claude N’zi , Henri N’Guessan Patrick , Francis Kouame Adamou , Sabas Barima Yao Sadaiou , Christophe Kouame
Published: December 2023

Aims: Ivorian cocoa production reaching 2 million ton annually at the expense of the forest reserve, and an annual deforestation rate around 2.78%. The integration of agroforestry into cocoa plantations appears to be a suitable approach to combating deforestation of the remaining forest reserves and restoring the degraded cocoa landscape. The choice of species is the key to the success of this program. Our objective was to evaluate the interaction between Garcinia kola and cocoa in traditional agroforestry systems.
Study Design: Around each Garcinia Kola tree identified in the orchard, two curves lines with radii of 10 and 20 m respectively were delimited in order to assess the interaction of Garcinia Kola on the cocoa tree according to their proximity to Garcinia Kola.
Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted at Gueyo and Buyo in cocoa-based agroforestry systems in western Côte d'Ivoire.  from June 2020 to November 2021.
Methodology: The influence of Garcinia Kola on cocoa trees was assessed by measuring the biomass and carbon sequestration rate of Garcinia kola and cocoa trees. The productivity of cocoa trees and Garcinia kola was also determined.
Results: Our results showed that Garcinia kola trees have an influence on the density and yield of cocoa trees. Cocoa trees close to Garcinia Kola trees within a 10 m radius showed low density and low pod production compared to those within a 20 m radius. Meanwhile, cocoa biomass and carbon sequestration levels were higher in the 10 m radius than the 20 m radius. This study has shown that associated cocoa and Garcinia kola stands make different contributions depending on their proximity.
Conclusion: This complementarity in terms of carbon sequestration capacity and productivity between Garcinia Kola and cocoa is an asset that can be exploited for Cocoa agroforestry system to improve the sustainable production system and restore the cocoa landscape.
Epidemiological Investigation of Rheumatic Heart Disease in the Emergency Department in Dakar: A Descriptive Analysis
Authors: Thiongane Aliou , Ba Abou , Ly Fatou , Ndongo Aliou A. , Boiro Djibril , Kéita Younoussa , Basse Idrissa , Niang Babacar , Ly Indou Dême , Dieng Yaye Joor , Cissé Djenaba Fafa , Seck Ndiogou , Thiam Lamine , Fall Amadou Lamine , Faye Papa Moctar , Sylla Assane , Ndiaye Ousmane
Published: December 2023

Background: Rheumatic Heart Disease (RHD), also known as "Bouillaud's disease", is a post-streptococcal non-suppurative inflammatory disease complicating an upper airway infection with group A β-hemolytic streptococcus. Although RHD has almost disappeared in developed countries, it is still a major public health problem in low- and middle-income countries, as it remains the most frequent cause of cardiovascular mortality and morbidity in children. The objective was to describe the epidemiological and evolutionary aspects of rheumatic heart disease admitted to the emergency room of the Albert Royer National Children's Hospital in Dakar.

Methods: We conducted a retrospective, descriptive study over a 12-month period (January 1 to December 31, 2021) of children aged 3 to 18 years hospitalized for rheumatic heart disease in the emergency department during the study period.

Results: The prevalence was 3.73% (37/993) with a mean age of 11.35 +/- 3 years and a majority between 10 and 15 years. Males predominated - sex ratio 1.3. The majority came from disadvantaged areas (91.9%) with low incomes for the most part (83.8%). The reasons for consultation were dominated by dyspnea (86.5%), fever (75.7%) and poly-arthralgia (35.1%).  General and physical signs were tachycardia (86.5%), orthopnea (24.3%), hypoxia (40.5%), congestive heart failure (83.7%). Cardiac involvement was dominated by mitral and aortic polyvalvular disease in more than half (57%). Management included diuretics (97.3%), oxygen therapy (90%), corticosteroids (31%) and antibiotics (81%). Three cases of death were noted. Conclusion: RHD is still frequent in our countries with an often poor prognosis due to delayed management.  Prevention policies are necessary to eradicate this scourge.
Craniofacial Angular Photogrammetric Evaluation of Ijaws Resident in Port Harcourt, Nigeria
Authors: Fawehinmi H. B. , Okoh P. D. , Oghenemavwe L. E. , Lekpa D. K. , Amadi M. A. , Bobbo K. A. , Oparaocha C. A. , Ebieto C. E. , Asiwe N.
Published: December 2023

Aim: Evaluation of facial angles is essential for defining facial traits in clinical and population studies. The aim of this research was to quantify the normative values of craniofacial angular parameters in Ijaws using a photogrammetric approach.

Methodology: The study employed a cross-sectional design involving 300 (150 males and 150 females) persons of Ijaw extraction between the ages of 18 to 40 years. Frontal and lateral view photographs of each subject were taken in the Natural Head Position and analyzed using Pro-Image Facial Software to evaluate nine angular facial parameters.  Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25.

Results and Discussion: The mean value Nasofrontal (NFA), Nasolabial (NLA), Nasofacial (NFCA), Nasomemtal (NMA), Mentocervical (MCA) angles, were 158.36±95.86º, 127.49±37.68 º, 34.27±12.72 º, 135.63±33.77 º, 88.38±20.26 º respectively. Males had a mean value of NFA, NLA, NFCA, NMA and MCA  154.02±20.90º, 137.00±32.97º, 39.14±19.00º, 122.59±45.2º, 86.93±29.66º respectively while females are 162. 69±134.03º 117.98±39.76º, 31.28±4.26º, 143.79±20.29 º, 89.41±8.9º respectively. NLA, NFC and NMA were statistically significant P <0.05. The study demonstrated some similarities and differences in angular craniofacial parameters of Ijaws residing in Port Harcourt when compared to other related studies. Variations observed could be attributed to nationality, ethnicity and race. There was sexual dimorphism in nasolabial, nasofacial and nasomental angles. Age-related difference was observed in nasolabial angle while nasofrontal, nasomental and nasofacial have no age differences.

Conclusion: This study shows that the normative facial angles of Ijaws residing in Port Harcourt were higher compared to those of the Caucasians, and neighboring ethnicities. There was sexual dimorphism in nasolabial, nasofacial, nasomental, only nasolabial showed significant difference with age.  The findings of this study will be useful in industrial designs, ergonomics, maxillofacial surgery and facial reconstruction.
Antidepressant prescribing in transgender and nonbinary individuals diagnosed with gender dysphoria and mood or anxiety disorders
Authors: Tiefenthaler Casey M. , Lee Kelly C.
Published: December 2023

Introduction

Transgender and nonbinary (TGNB) individuals are highly stigmatized members of society and are significantly at higher risk of having mood or anxiety-related disorders compared to non-TGNB individuals.

Methods

In this retrospective cohort study, antidepressant prescribing data were collected from TGNB adults diagnosed with gender dysphoria (GD) and mood or anxiety-related disorder between January 2005 and October 2021. The primary outcome was to compare the number of active outpatient antidepressant prescriptions at the time of GD diagnosis between gender identities. The secondary outcomes were to compare antidepressant class utilization between gender identities as well as the prevalence of concurrent mood or anxiety-related disorder diagnoses between gender identities.

Results

Of 131 patients who met inclusion criteria, there was no significant difference in number of active antidepressant prescriptions between gender identities at the time of the GD diagnosis (p = .357). However, transgender females were prescribed bupropion at significantly higher rates than other gender identities (p = .046). Approximately 38% of patients did not have an active antidepressant prescription at the time of GD diagnosis despite concurrent mood or anxiety-related diagnoses. The prevalence of generalized anxiety disorder was significantly greater among transgender males (p = .044).

Discussion

Although the number of active antidepressant prescriptions between gender identities were similar in this study, we found 38% of patients were not prescribed any antidepressants at time of GD and mood or anxiety-related disorders. This serendipitous finding elucidates a potential gap in mental health care among transgender adults.
Coordination Shell Dependent Activity of CuCo Diatomic Catalysts for Oxygen Reduction, Oxygen Evolution, and Hydrogen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Chen Yuqing , Mao Jianing , Zhou Hu , Xing Lingli , Qiao Shanshan , Yuan Jili , Mei Bingbao , Wei Zengxi , Zhao Shuangliang , Tang Yanhong , Liu Chengbin
Published: December 2023

Challenges in rational designing dual‐atom catalysts (DACs) give a strong motivation to construct coordination‐activity correlations. Here, thorough coordination‐activity correlations of DACs based on how the changes in coordination shells (CSs) of dual‐atom Cu,Co centers influence their electrocatalytic activity in oxygen reduction reaction(ORR), oxygen evolution reaction (OER), and hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) is constructed. First, Cu,Co DACs with different CSs modifications are fabricated by using a controlled “precursors‐preselection” approach. Three DACs with unique coordination environments are characterized as secondary S atoms that directly bond to Cu,Co‐N6 in lower CSs, indirectly bond in neighboring CSs, and are doped in higher CSs, respectively. Then, experimentally and theoretically, a coordination correlation resembling a planet‐satellite system, where satellite coordinated atoms (heteroatom N, S) surround Cu‐Co dual‐atom entity in various orbitals CSs. By evaluating electrocatalytic activity indicators, differences are identified in electronic structure and electrocatalytic performance of Cu and Co centers in ORR, OER, and HER. Interestingly, initial CSs modifications for DACs may not always be advantageous for electrocatalysis. This work offers valuable insight for designing DACs for diverse applications.
Small Extracellular Vesicles Derived from Altered Peptide Ligand‐Loaded Dendritic Cell Act as A Therapeutic Vaccine for Spinal Cord Injury Through Eliciting CD4+ T cell‐Mediated Neuroprotective Immunity
Authors: Wang Sikai , Li Guanglei , Liang Xiongjie , Wu Zexuan , Chen Chao , Zhang Fawang , Niu Jiawen , Li Xuefeng , Yan Jinglong , Wang Nanxiang , Li Jing , Wang Yufu
Published: December 2023

The balance among different CD4+ T cell subsets is crucial for repairing the injured spinal cord. Dendritic cell (DC)‐derived small extracellular vesicles (DsEVs) effectively activate T‐cell immunity. Altered peptide ligands (APLs), derived from myelin basic protein (MBP), have been shown to affect CD4+ T cell subsets and reduce neuroinflammation levels. However, the application of APLs is challenging because of their poor stability and associated side effects. Herein, it is demonstrate that DsEVs can act as carriers for APL MBP87‐99A91 (A91‐DsEVs) to induce the activation of 2 helper T (Th2) and regulatory T (Treg) cells for spinal cord injury (SCI) in mice. These stimulated CD4+ T cells can efficiently “home” to the lesion area and establish a beneficial microenvironment through inducing the activation of M2 macrophages/microglia, inhibiting the expression of inflammatory cytokines, and increasing the release of neurotrophic factors. The microenvironment mediated by A91‐DsEVs may enhance axon regrowth, protect neurons, and promote remyelination, which may support the recovery of motor function in the SCI model mice. In conclusion, using A91‐DsEVs as a therapeutic vaccine may help induce neuroprotective immunity in the treatment of SCI.
Near Infrared Light‐Activatable Platelet‐Mimicking NIR‐II NO Nano‐Prodrug for Precise Atherosclerosis Theranostics
Authors: Chai Yun , Shangguan Lina , Yu Hui , Sun Ye , Huang Xiaoyan , Zhu Yanyan , Wang Hai‐Yan , Liu Yi
Published: December 2023

Atherosclerosis is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects arteries and is the main cause of cardiovascular disease. Atherosclerotic plaque formation is usually asymptomatic and does not manifest until the occurrence of clinical events. Therefore, early diagnosis and treatment of atherosclerotic plaques is particularly important. Here, a series of NIR‐II fluorescent dyes (RBT‐NH) are developed for three photoresponsive NO prodrugs (RBT‐NO), which can be controllably triggered by 808 nm laser to release NO and turn on the NIR‐II emission in the clinical medicine “therapeutic window”. Notably, RBT3‐NO is selected for its exhibited high NO releasing efficiency and superior fluorescence signal enhancement. Subsequently, a platelet‐mimicking nano‐prodrug system (RBT3‐NO‐PEG@PM) is constructed by DSPE‐mPEG5k and platelet membrane (PM) for effectively targeted diagnosis and therapy of atherosclerosis in mice. The results indicate that this platelet‐mimicking NO nano‐prodrug system can reduce the accumulation of lipids at the sites of atherosclerotic plaques, improve the inflammatory response at the lesion sites, and promote endothelial cell migration, thereby slowing the progression of plaques.
Complex Materials with Stochastic Structural Patterns: Spiky Colloids with Enhanced Charge Storage Capacity
Authors: Cao Yuan , Luo Bingcheng , Javaid Atif , Jung Hong Ju , Ma Tao , Lim Chung‐Man , Emre Ahmet , Wang Xiaohui , Kotov Nicholas A.
Published: December 2023

Self‐assembled materials with complex nanoscale and mesoscale architecture attract considerable attention in energy and sustainability technologies. Their high performance can be attributed to high surface area, quantum effects, and hierarchical organization. Delineation of these contributions is, however, difficult because complex materials display stochastic structural patterns combining both order and disorder, which is difficult to be consistently reproduced yet being important for materials' functionality. Their compositional variability make systematic studies even harder. Here, a model system of FeSe2 “hedgehog” particles (HPs) was selected  to gain insight into the mechanisms of charge storage n complex nanostructured materials common for batteries and supercapacitors. Specifically, HPs represent self‐assembled biomimetic nanomaterials with a medium level of complexity; they display an organizational pattern of spiky colloids with considerable disorder yet non‐random; this patternt is consistently reproduced from particle to particle. . It was found that HPs can accommodate ≈70× greater charge density than spheroidal nano‐ and microparticles. Besides expanded surface area, the enhanced charge storage capacity was enabled by improved hole transport and reversible atomic conformations of FeSe2 layers in the blade‐like spikes associated with the rotatory motion of the Se atoms around Fe center. The dispersibility of HPs also enables their easy integration into energy storage devices. HPs quadruple stored electrochemical energy and double the storage modulus of structural supercapacitors.
Hydrophobic Porous Liquids with Controlled Cavity Size and Physico‐Chemical Properties
Authors: Ginot Lorianne , El Bakkouche Amal , Giusti Fabrice , Dourdain Sandrine , Pellet‐Rostaing Stéphane
Published: December 2023

Developing greener hydrometallurgical processes implies offering alternatives to conventional solvents used for liquid‐liquid extraction (LLE) of metals. In this context, it is proposed to substitute the organic phase by a hydrophobic silica‐based porous liquid (PL). Two different sulfonated hollow silica particles (HSPs) are modified with various polyethoxylated fatty amines (EthAs) forming a canopy that provides both the targeted hydrophobicity and liquefying properties. This study shows that these properties can be tuned by varying the number of ethylene oxide units in the EthA: middle‐range molecular weight EthAs allow obtaining a liquid at room temperature, while too short or too long EthA leads to solid particles. Viscosity is also impacted by the density and size of the silica spheres: less viscous PLs are obtained with small low‐density spheres, while for larger spheres (c.a. 200 nm) the density has a less significant impact on viscosity. According to this approach, hydrophobic PLs are successfully synthesized. When contacted with an aqueous phase, the most hydrophobic PLs obtained allow a subsequent phase separation. Preliminary extraction tests on three rare earth elements have further shown that functionalization of the PL is necessary to observe metal extraction.
Osmolar Modulation Drives Reversible Cell Cycle Exit and Human Pluripotent Cell Differentiation via NF‐κВ and WNT Signaling
Authors: Chui Jonathan Sai‐Hong , Izuel‐Idoype Teresa , Qualizza Alessandra , de Almeida Rita Pires , Piessens Lindsey , van der Veer Bernard K. , Vanmarcke Gert , Malesa Aneta , Athanasouli Paraskevi , Boon Ruben , Vriens Joris , van Grunsven Leo , Koh Kian Peng , Verfaillie Catherine M. , Lluis Frederic
Published: December 2023

Terminally differentiated cells are commonly regarded as the most stable cell state in adult organisms, characterized by growth arrest while fulfilling their specialized functions. A better understanding of the mechanisms involved in promoting cell cycle exit will improve the ability to differentiate pluripotent cells into mature tissues for both pharmacological and therapeutic use. Here, it demonstrates that a hyperosmolar environment enforces a protective p53‐independent quiescent state in immature hepatoma cells and in pluripotent stem cell‐derived models of human hepatocytes and endothelial cells. Prolonged culture in hyperosmolar conditions stimulates changes in gene expression promoting functional cell maturation. Interestingly, hyperosmolar conditions do not only trigger growth arrest and cellular maturation but are also necessary to maintain this maturated state, as switching back to plasma osmolarity reverses the changes in expression of maturation and proliferative markers. Transcriptome analysis revealed sequential stages of osmolarity‐regulated growth arrest followed by cell maturation, mediated by activation of NF‐κВ, and repression of WNT signaling, respectively. This study reveals that a modulated increase in osmolarity serves as a biochemical signal to promote long‐term growth arrest and cellular maturation into different lineages, providing a practical method to generate differentiated hiPSCs that resemble their mature counterpart more closely.
A Dynamic Memory for Reservoir Computing Utilizing Ion Migration in CuInP2S6
Authors: Wu Yangwu , Duong Ngoc Thanh , Chien Yu‐Chieh , Liu Song , Ang Kah‐Wee
Published: December 2023

Time‐series analysis and forecasting play a vital role in the fields of economics and engineering. Neuromorphic computing, particularly recurrent neural networks (RNNs), has emerged as an effective approach to address these tasks. Reservoir computing (RC), a type of RNN, offers a powerful and efficient solution for handling nonlinear information in high‐dimensional spaces and addressing temporal tasks. CuInP2S6 (CIPS), a van der Waals material with ion conductivity, shows promise for sequential task processing. Here, a synapse device based on CIPS is demonstrated that exhibits temporal dynamics under electrical stimulation. By controlling Cu+ ion migration, this study successfully emulates synaptic performance, including potentiation and depression characteristics, and RC. Migration of Cu+ ions is confirmed using piezoresponse and Kelvin probe force microscopy. The device achieves low normalized root mean square errors (NRMSE) of 0.04762 and 0.01402 for the Hénon map and Mackey‐Glass series tasks, respectively. For real‐life time‐series prediction based on the Jena temperature database, an overall NRMSE of 0.03339 is achieved. These results highlight the potential of CIPS ion conductivity for real‐time signal processing in machine learning, expanding applications in neuromorphic computing.
Recent Advances in Asymmetric Catalysis Using p‐Block Elements
Authors: Pramanik Milan , Guerzoni Michael G. , Richards Emma , Melen Rebecca L.
Published: December 2023

The development of new methods for enantioselective reactions that generate stereogenic centres within molecules are a cornerstone of organic synthesis. Typically, metal catalysts bearing chiral ligands as well as chiral organocatalysts have been employed for the enantioselective synthesis of organic compounds. In this review, we highlight the recent advances in main group catalysis for enantioselective reactions using the p‐block elements (boron, aluminium, phosphorus, bismuth) as a complementary and sustainable approach to generate chiral molecules. Several of these catalysts benefit in terms of high abundance, low toxicity, high selectivity, and excellent reactivity. This minireview summarises the utilisation of chiral p‐block element catalysts for asymmetric reactions to generate value‐added compounds.
Synthesis and characterization of new nanocomposite Cu6W18O70⊂CuFe2O4 as an efficient nanocatalyst for oxidative desulfurization of real and model gasoline
Authors: Rezvani Mohammad A. , Bakhtiyari Ali , Imani Alireza
Published: December 2023

The primary objective of this investigation was to develop a new nanocatalyst that could produce materials with a lower sulfur content, thereby reducing its environmental harm. To achieve this, the researchers used the sol‐gel method to synthesize a heterogeneous nanocatalyst by attaching sandwich‐type polyoxotungstate [(CuW9O34)2Cu4(H2O)2−10] (denoted as Cu6W18O70) clusters on the surface of copper ferrite nanoparticles (CuFe2O4 NPs). To characterize the nanocatalyst, several analysis techniques were employed, including Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, ultraviolet‐visible, powder X‐ray diffraction, and scanning electron microscope. The oxidative desulfurization of hazardous sulfur‐containing real and model fuel oils was effectively catalyzed by the Cu6W18O70⊂CuFe2O4 nanocatalyst. According to the experimental findings, the best efficiencies in oxidation reaction were achieved in 1 h contracting time at 35°C, which was as high as 95%. The Cu6W18O70⊂CuFe2O4 nanocatalyst exhibited impressive removal rates (%) on dibenzothiophene (C12H8S), benzothiophene (C8H6S), and thiophene (C4H4S) of model fuels, with figures reaching 97%, 96% and, 96% respectively. Furthermore, multiple recycling of the uniform nanocatalyst can be achieved effortlessly through filtration, without experiencing any notable decline in activity. Therefore, the authors suggest that this study will pave the way for the widely used mentioned nanocatalyst in the practical and workable organization of petroleum fractions.
Hypersecretory production of glucose oxidase in Pichia pastoris through combinatorial engineering of protein properties, synthesis, and secretion
Authors: Zhou Huzhi , Zhang Wenyu , Qian Jiangchao
Published: December 2023

Glucose oxidase (EC 1.1.3.4, GOD) is a widely used industrial enzyme. To construct a GOD‐hyperproducing Pichia pastoris strain, combinatorial strategies have been applied to improve GOD activity, synthesis, and secretion. First, wild‐type GOD was subjected to saturation mutagenesis to obtain an improved variant, MGOD1 (V20W/T30S), with 1.7‐fold higher kcat/KM. Subsequently, efficient signal peptides were screened, and the copy number of MGOD1 was optimized to generate a high‐producing strain, 8GM1, containing eight copies of AOX1 promoter‐GAS1 signal peptide‐MGOD1 expression cassette. Finally, the vesicle trafficking of 8GM1 was engineered to obtain the hyperproducing strain G1EeSe co‐expressing the trafficking components EES and SEC. 22, and the EES gene (PAS_chr3_0685) was found to facilitate both protein secretion and production for the first time. Using these strategies, GOD secretion was enhanced 65.2‐fold. In the 5‐L bioreactor, conventional fed‐batch fermentation without any process optimization resulted in up to 7223.0 U/mL extracellular GOD activity (3.3‐fold higher than the highest level reported to date), with almost only GOD in the fermentation supernatant at a protein concentration of 30.7 g/L. Therefore, a GOD hyperproducing strain for industrial applications was developed, and this successful case can provide a valuable reference for the construction of high‐producing strains for other industrial enzymes.
Neurocysticercosis mimicking craniopharyngioma: A case report
Authors: Rehman Aliya F. , Lazo‐Vasquez Alex F. , Bhatt Parjanya K. , Quiroz Tanya , Joseph Joelle‐Ann , Gultekin Sibel , Montreuil Nadine , Sternberg Candice A. , Ayoade Folusakin
Published: December 2023

Key Clinical Message

In patients with appropriate epidemiological risk factors, neurocysticecosis should be considered as part of the differential diagnosis of suprasellar or parasellar mass lesions. As neuroimaging findings can be nonspecific, serology may be helpful, but when still in doubt, brain biopsy, and histopathology may be necessary to make the correct diagnosis.

Neurocysticercosis (NCC) is a well‐documented central nervous system helminth infection that is, frequently observed in developing countries. Known sites of NCC infection include the highly vascular gray‐white matter junction, basal cistern, brain parenchyma, subarachnoid space, ventricular system, and spinal cord. This case highlights an uncommon yet intriguing site of NCC infection within the suprasellar area, which presented with similar clinical and imaging characteristics as suprasellar masses or lesions. The 44‐year‐old female initially complained of headaches and nausea that persisted for 5 years and progressed to vision problems and short‐term memory loss. A craniopharyngioma was initially suspected, based on imaging findings of a partially calcified suprasellar tumor. However, cysticercosis was confirmed by histopathology and serological testing positive for Cysticercus IgG antibodies. The patient was successfully treated with albendazole and tapering doses of steroids, which improved her presenting symptoms and resolved prior imaging findings. This case serves as a reminder to consider NCC in the differential diagnosis of sellar and suprasellar masses or lesions, particularly when an epidemiologic risk factor is present.
Effiziente Hochtemperatur‐Gasreinigung mittels Elektroabscheider: Zukünftige Anwendungsgebiete zur Wertstoffrückgewinnung und optimierten Wärmeübertragung
Authors: Bürger Patrick , Riebel Ulrich
Published: December 2023

Die Partikelabscheidung aus heißen Gasen, insbesondere die Abscheidung von Nanopartikeln, ist ein herausforderndes Unterfangen, das häufig durch das Quenchen des heißen (Ab)‐Gasstroms umgangen wird. Allerdings verspricht die Heißgasreinigung eine verbesserte und effizientere Wärmerückgewinnung aus verschiedensten industriellen Prozessen. Neben den klassischen Hochtemperaturprozessen gewinnen auch Verfahren wie die flammenbasierte Herstellung von Nanopartikeln an Relevanz. In diesem Beitrag werden die experimentellen Ergebnisse eines Hochtemperatur‐Elektroabscheiders im Technikumsmaßstab zur Nanopartikelabscheidung aus Verbrennungsabgasen bei 400–800 °C beschrieben sowie die zugrundeliegenden Phänomene und die daraus resultierenden zukünftigen Anwendungsgebiete. Über den gesamten untersuchten Temperaturbereich konnte ein robuster Betrieb mit einer energetisch sehr effizienten Abscheidung beobachtet werden. In Kombination mit einer Hochtemperatur‐Wärmerückgewinnung ermöglicht das Verfahren zukünftig eine deutliche Reduktion des Primärenergiebedarfs von Hochtemperaturprozessen.
Pressure‐ and time‐dependent alveolar recruitment/derecruitment in a spatially resolved patient‐specific computational model for injured human lungs
Authors: Geitner Carolin M. , Köglmeier Lea J. , Frerichs Inéz , Langguth Patrick , Lindner Matthias , Schädler Dirk , Weiler Norbert , Becher Tobias , Wall Wolfgang A.
Published: December 2023

We present a novel computational model for the dynamics of alveolar recruitment/derecruitment (RD), which reproduces the underlying characteristics typically observed in injured lungs. The basic idea is a pressure‐ and time‐dependent variation of the stress‐free reference volume in reduced dimensional viscoelastic elements representing the acinar tissue. We choose a variable reference volume triggered by critical opening and closing pressures in a time‐dependent manner from a straightforward mechanical point of view. In the case of (partially and progressively) collapsing alveolar structures, the volume available for expansion during breathing reduces and vice versa, eventually enabling consideration of alveolar collapse and reopening in our model. We further introduce a method for patient‐specific determination of the underlying critical parameters of the new alveolar RD dynamics when integrated into the tissue elements, referred to as terminal units, of a spatially resolved physics‐based lung model that simulates the human respiratory system in an anatomically correct manner. Relevant patient‐specific parameters of the terminal units are herein determined based on medical image data and the macromechanical behavior of the lung during artificial ventilation. We test the whole modeling approach for a real‐life scenario by applying it to the clinical data of a mechanically ventilated patient. The generated lung model is capable of reproducing clinical measurements such as tidal volume and pleural pressure during various ventilation maneuvers. We conclude that this new model is an important step toward personalized treatment of ARDS patients by considering potentially harmful mechanisms—such as cyclic RD and overdistension—and might help in the development of relevant protective ventilation strategies to reduce ventilator‐induced lung injury (VILI).
Biomedical Applications of Electro‐Initiated Polymerisation on Ti6Al4 V Titanium Alloy using Silk Fibroin Coatings for Antibiotic Delivery and Improved Cell Metabolism
Authors: Emonson Nicholas S. , Dharmasiri Bhagya , Gordon Edward B. , Borkar Ameya , Newman Ben , Wickramasingha Y. Athulya , Coia Piers , Harte Timothy , Newton Jazmyn , Allardyce Benjamin J. , Stojcevski Filip , Kaplan David L. , Henderson Luke C.
Published: December 2023

Silk fibroin interactions with metallic surfaces can provide utility for medical materials and devices. Toward this goal, titanium alloy (Ti6Al4 V) was covalently grafted with polyacrylamide via electrochemically reducing 4‐nitrobenzene diazonium salt in the presence of acrylamide. Analysis of the modified surfaces with FT‐IR spectra, SEM and AFM were consistent with surface grafting. Functionalised titanium samples with a silk fibroin membrane, with and without impregnated therapeutics, were used to assess cytocompatibility and drug delivery. Initial cytocompatibility experiments using fibroblasts showed that the functionalised samples, both with and without silk fibroin coatings, supported significant increases between 72–136 % in cell metabolism, compared to the controls after 7 days. A 7‐days release profiling showed consistent bacterial inhibition through gentamicin release with average inhibition zones of 239 mm2. Over a 5‐week period, silk fibroin coated samples, both with and without growth factors, supported better human mesenchymal stem cell metabolism with increases reaching 1031 % and 388 %, respectively, compared to samples without the silk fibroin coating with.
Detection in seized samples, analytical characterization, and in vitro metabolism of the newly emerged 5‐bromo‐indazole‐3‐carboxamide synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists
Authors: Norman Caitlyn , Webling Kristin , Kyslychenko Oleksandra , Reid Robert , Krotulski Alex J. , Farrell Ryan , Deventer Marie H. , Liu Huiling , Connolly Matthew J. , Guillou Claude , Vinckier Inge M. J. , Logan Barry K. , NicDaéid Niamh , McKenzie Craig , Stove Christophe P. , Gréen Henrik
Published: December 2023

Synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists (SCRAs) are a diverse class of new psychoactive substances (NPS) and new structural scaffolds have emerged on the recreational drug market since the enactment of Chinese SCRA analog controls in 2021. This study reports the first SCRAs to be detected with a bromide at the 5 position (5′Br) on the phenyl ring of the indazole core and without a tail moiety. ADB‐5′Br‐INACA (ADMB‐5′Br‐INACA) and MDMB‐5′Br‐INACA were detected in seized samples from Scottish prisons, Belgian customs, and US forensic casework. The brominated analog with a tail moiety, ADB‐5′Br‐BUTINACA (ADMB‐5′Br‐BUTINACA), was also detected in Scottish prisons and US forensic casework. The metabolites of these compounds and the predicted compound MDMB‐5′Br‐BUTINACA were identified through incubation with primary human hepatocytes to aid in their toxicological identification. The bromide on the indazole remains intact on metabolites, allowing these compounds to be easily distinguished in toxicological samples from their non‐brominated analogs. Glucuronidation was more common for tail‐less analogs than their butyl tail‐containing counterparts. Forensic toxicologists are advised to update their analytical methods with the characteristic ions for these compounds, as well as their anticipated urinary markers: amide hydrolysis and monoOH at tert‐butyl metabolites (after β‐glucuronidase treatment) for ADB‐5′Br‐INACA; monoOH at tert‐butyl and amide hydrolysis metabolites for ADB‐5′Br‐BUTINACA; and ester hydrolysis metabolites with additional metabolites for MDMB‐5′Br‐INACA and MDMB‐5′Br‐BUTINACA. Toxicologists should remain vigilant to the emergence of new SCRAs with halogenation of the indazole core and tail‐less analogs, which have already started to emerge.
Dispersal mediates trophic interactions and habitat connectivity to alter metacommunity composition
Authors: Gordon Susan C. C. , Martin Julien G. A. , Kerr Jeremy T.
Published: December 2023

Dispersal contributes vitally to metacommunity structure. However, interactions between dispersal and other key processes have rarely been explored, particularly in the context of multitrophic metacommunities. We investigated such a metacommunity in naturally fragmented habitats populated by butterfly species (whose dispersal capacities were previously assessed), flowering plants, and butterfly predators. Using data on butterfly species abundance, floral abundance, and predation (on experimentally placed clay butterfly models), we asked how dispersal ability mediates interactions with predators, mutualists, and the landscape matrix. In contrast to expectations, high densities of strong dispersers were found in more isolated sites and sites with low floral resource density, while intermediate dispersers maintained similar densities across isolation and floral gradients, and higher densities of poor dispersers were found in more connected sites and sites with higher floral density. These findings raise questions about how strong dispersers experience the landscape matrix and the quality of isolated and low‐resource sites. Strong dispersers were able to escape habitat patches with high predation, while intermediate dispersers maintained similar densities along a predation gradient, and poor dispersers occurred at high densities in these patches, exposing them to interactions with predators. This work demonstrates that species that vary in dispersal capacities interact differently with predators and mutualist partners in a landscape context, shaping metacommunity composition.
Berechnung des Durchstanzwiderstands von Fundamenten
Authors: Goldscheider Michael , Karcher Christian
Published: December 2023

Das Phänomen des Durchstanzens eines Fundaments, welches auf einer Tragschicht über einer wenig tragfähigen wassergesättigten Weichschicht steht, wird definiert und beschrieben und die Mechanik erklärt. Dazu wird ein Berechnungsverfahren entwickelt. Dieses beruht auf einer in Modellversuchen beobachteten Bruchkinematik und einer statischen Annahme bezüglich der Spannungsverteilung in horizontalen Schnitten durch den Stanzkörper, die durch einen Verhältniswert zum Ausdruck kommt. Dieser statische Verhältniswert wurde für verschiedene Verteilungen der Oberflächenbelastung mittels Berechnungen nach der Methode der finiten Elemente ermittelt und in einer Tabelle angegeben. Das Berechnungsverfahren ist als Lamellenverfahren mit horizontalen Lamellen formuliert und kann in einfacher Handrechnung durchgeführt werden. Zwei reale, gut dokumentierte Beispiele werden ausführlich vorgerechnet und bestätigen die Genauigkeit des Verfahrens.
Durchstanzen von Fundamenten auf einer Sandschicht über Ton: Berechnungsverfahren und Erkenntnisse aus numerischen Parameterstudien
Authors: Vrettos Christos , Seibel Elisabeth
Published: December 2023

Das Durchstanzen von Fundamenten auf einer Sandschicht über Ton ist für die Tragfähigkeit von Arbeitsplattformen sowie die Standsicherheit von Fundamenten von Relevanz. In der Praxis wird bisher vornehmlich das analytische Modell nach Meyerhof und Hanna mit einem quaderförmigen Bruchkörper in der Sandschicht angewandt. Der dafür erforderliche Durchstanzbeiwert wird aus empirischen, schwer nachvollziehbaren Diagrammen abgeschätzt. In den vergangenen Jahren wurden verschiedene Alternativen vorgeschlagen, teilweise unter Ansatz von geneigten Gleitflächen im Sand. Eine Übersicht hierzu wird im ersten Teil dieser Arbeit erstellt. Darauf aufbauend wird eine ausführliche numerische Parameterstudie durchgeführt. Die Finite Elemente Methode in Verbindung mit einem elastoplastischen Stoffmodell wird zur Berechnung des Durchstanzwiderstands eingesetzt. Zur Identifikation der Kinematik der Bruchvorgänge wird die Methode der zusammengesetzten Starrkörperbruchmechanismen verwendet. Aus einer Synthese wird daraus ein analytisches Verfahren zur Berechnung der Bruchspannung von Streifen‐ und Rechteckfundamenten entwickelt, das den für die Praxis relevanten Wertebereich der Eingangsparameter abdeckt.