bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Why we need to study street‐level policy entrepreneurs
Authors: Cohen Nissim , Arnold Gwen , Petridou Evangelia
Published: November 2023

An emerging literature argues that street‐level bureaucrats can develop and advocate for policy innovations that change policy in meaningful ways, calling this phenomenon “street‐level policy entrepreneurship.” This argument is at the heart of the present special issue, which features contributions to developing the theoretical underpinnings of street‐level policy entrepreneurship and empirically examining evidence for this phenomenon. While the traditional understanding of street‐level bureaucrats views them as administrative functionaries, lacking motivation or resources for innovation, this new perspective recognizes that street‐level officials' deep knowledge of a given policy domain and involved stakeholders uniquely positions these officials to advocate for policy innovations affecting the domain and its constituents. We urge scholars to take street‐level policy entrepreneurship seriously and to examine questions at the frontiers of our knowledge about these entrepreneurial officials, including what motivates them, what strategies for policy advocacy they find most effective, and how their behaviors are shaped by different institutional contexts.
Headwater stream temperature response to forest harvesting: Do lower flows cause greater warming?
Authors: Moore R. Dan , Guenther S. M. , Gomi Takashi , Leach Jason A.
Published: November 2023

This study addressed two hypotheses regarding the relationship between stream temperature response to shade removal and streamflow: (a) that temperature response increases as flow declines and (b) that the relationship can be complicated by shifts in dominant streamflow sources and pathways during low‐flow periods. The study was based on a paired‐catchment design in rain‐dominated headwater catchments in the southern Coast Mountains of British Columbia, Canada, and focused on the effect of a 50% thinning treatment on daily maximum temperature in June, July and August for three sites within the harvest treatment. At the two upstream sites, the treatment response exhibited a negative relationship with daily mean streamflow, especially for days with high incident solar radiation. This result suggests that the effectiveness of forest practice rules for protecting cold‐water habitat may be reduced under future climatic conditions characterized by more frequent extended drought. However, stream temperature response at the most downstream site exhibited a pronounced inverted‐U‐shaped relationship with streamflow measured at a weir. It is hypothesized that the response at the most downstream temperature logger was controlled by the existence of a stable, relatively cool inflow just upstream of the logger, which represented an increasing fraction of flow as streamflow generated higher up in the catchment declined through time. There was a lack of convergent surface topography upstream of the logger, and it is hypothesized that localized inflow may have been controlled by the topography of the soil‐till interface and/or originated as hyporheic discharge.
Factors and processes controlling hydrochemistry and evaporitic deposits in hypersaline wetland‐shallow lake systems
Authors: Acosta Rosario , Carol Eleonora , Borzi Guido , Cellone Francisco , Alvarez María del Pilar
Published: November 2023

Three wetland‐shallow lakes were studied with the aim of analysing the processes and factors that control hydrochemistry and evaporite deposits in them in basins of the Pampean Plain, Argentina. In this sense, water balances and analysis of the water content of the lakes with normalized water difference index were made, and geologic‐geomorphological characteristics and groundwater flows were defined. Groundwater, surface water and evaporite samples were taken, along with sediment samples from wetland‐shallow lakes and surroundings. In situ pH, electrical conductivity and temperature, and laboratory chemical determinations of major ions of the water were measured. x‐ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscope (SEM)‐energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) analyses of evaporite and sediment samples were carried out. The results obtained allow the identification of two different systems. One of them is represented by Leubucó wetland‐lake basin, which is topographically higher and smaller than the other system, with Na‐HCO3 and Na‐Cl/SO4 groundwater inflows, with high concentrations of Ca2+ and Mg2+. In periods of high evaporation, the regional water table drops, and due to its topographic position, the lake dries. These determine the formation of thick layers of halite associated with magnesium salts on surface, and gypsum layers interbedded with clastic sediments. The other system involves de la Sal and Chasilauquen wetland‐lake basins, which have larger extensions. They receive Na‐HCO3 and Na‐Cl/SO4 groundwater inflow, but with low Mg2+ and Ca2+. Their lower topographic position determines that even during deficit periods, the water table intercepts the lakes surface and therefore, lakes have a shallow surface water level almost all the year, which is hypersaline, Na‐Cl type. These systems only have thin evaporite crusts, composed of halite and thenardite at the edges of the lakes, and the formation of Ca‐Mg sulfates is not observed. It is concluded that topographic position, basins size, geology, groundwater inflow and evaporation are the main processes and factors controlling hydrochemistry and evaporitic deposits.
Association of serum inhibin a with pre‐eclampsia: An observational cohort study with propensity score matching
Authors: Yue Chaoyan , Wang Zhiheng , Cao Wei , Ying Chunmei
Published: November 2023

Objective

To assess whether serum inhibin A at 14–20 weeks of gestation is associated with the occurrence of pre‐eclampsia.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study using propensity score matching was conducted on 11 682 singleton pregnant women with established deliveries at the Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University between January 2017 and July 2019. We investigated serum inhibin A levels at 14–20 weeks of gestation and calculated the relative risk between inhibin A and pre‐eclampsia by multifactorial logistic regression analysis. Smoothed, fitted curves were used to observe the effect of inhibin A in relation to the occurrence of pre‐eclampsia.

Results

The risk of pre‐eclampsia occurrence increased with elevated serum inhibin A. After full adjustment for confounders, the risk ratio for pre‐eclampsia in the group of pregnant women with high inhibin A was 2.92 (95% confidence interval [CI] 2.08–4.11) compared with those with normal inhibin A. The results of sensitivity analysis suggested a consistent effect of inhibin A on the risk of pre‐eclampsia in different populations.

Conclusion

Elevated serum inhibin A at 14–20 weeks of gestation is associated with pre‐eclampsia and may provide an early warning signal for pregnancy outcomes associated with pre‐eclampsia.
Evaluation of possible neuroprotective effects of virgin coconut oil on aluminum‐induced neurotoxicity in an in vitro Alzheimer's disease model
Authors: Demirel Göksun , Sanajou Sonia , Yirün Anil , Çakir Deniz Arca , Berkkan Aysel , Baydar Terken , Erkekoğlu Pinar
Published: November 2023

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurological disorder that affects various cognitive functions, behavior, and personality. AD is thought to be caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors, including exposure to aluminum (Al). Virgin coconut oil (VCO) may have potential as a natural neuroprotectant against AD. Aim of this study was to determine neuroprotective effects of VCO on Al‐induced neurotoxicity in an in vitro AD model. SH‐SY5Y cells were initially cultured in normal growth medium and then differentiated by reducing fetal bovine serum content and adding retinoic acid (RA). Later, brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) was added along with RA. The differentiation process was completed on the seventh day. Study groups (n = 3) were designed as control group, VCO group, Al group, Al‐VCO group, Alzheimer model (AD) group, AD + Al‐exposed group (AD+Al), AD + VCO applied group (AD + VCO) and AD + Al‐exposed + VCO applied group (AD + Al + VCO). Specific markers of AD (hyperphosphorylated Tau protein, amyloid beta 1–40 peptide, and amyloid precursor protein) were measured in all groups. In addition, oxidative stress parameters (total antioxidant capacity, lipid peroxidase, protein carbonyl, and reactive oxygen species) and neurotransmitter‐related parameters (dopamine, dopamine transporter acetylcholine, and synuclein alpha levels, acetylcholinesterase activity) were measured comparatively in the study groups. VCO reduced amyloid beta and hyperphosphorylated Tau protein levels in the study groups. In addition, oxidative stress levels decreased, and neurotransmitter parameters improved with VCO. Our study shows that VCO may have potential therapeutic effects in Alzheimer's disease and further experiments are needed to determine its efficacy.
Anatomical structure characterization of fetal ultrasound images using texture‐based segmentation technique via an interactive MATLAB application
Authors: Molina‐Giraldo Saulo , Torres‐Valencia Natalia , Torres‐Valencia Cristian , Restrepo Hector Fabio
Published: November 2023

Objective

To describe the texture characteristics in several anatomical structures within fetal ultrasound images by applying an image segmentation technique through an application developed in MATLAB mathematical processing software.

Methods

Prospective descriptive observational study with an analytical component. 2D fetal ultrasound images were acquired in patients admitted to the Maternal Fetal Medicine Unit of the Hospital de San José, Bogotá‐Colombia. These images were loaded into the developed application to carry out the segmentation and characterization stages by means of 23 numerical texture descriptors. The data were analyzed with central tendency measures and through an embedding process and Euclidean distance.

Results

Forty ultrasound images were included, characterizing 54 structures of the fetal placenta, skull, thorax, and abdomen. By embedding the descriptors, the differentiation of biologically known structures as distinct was achieved, as well as the non‐differentiation of similar structures, evidenced using 2D and 3D graphs and numerical data with statistical significance.

Conclusion

The texture characterization of the labeled structures in fetal ultrasound images through the numerical descriptors allows the accurate discrimination of these structures.
Strategically redefining university dynamics for the digital age: A qualitative approach
Authors: Patrício Lurdes D. , Ferreira João J.
Published: November 2023

Despite the great complexity and the challenges inherent to technological advances that require digital transformation (DT), there is still limited academic guidance for developing and leveraging capabilities during such transformations. However, there is recognition that being or becoming an entrepreneurial higher education institution (HEI) may provide some of the answers to these newly emerging challenges. Based on the HEInnovate self‐assessment tool, developed by the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development/European Community (OECD/EC), HEIs can assess their entrepreneurial capacities, facilitating a reflection on strengths and weaknesses and raising awareness of institutional development needs. This study aims to enhance our comprehension of how the HEInnovate digital transformation and capability (DTC) dimension effectively reflects the vital characteristics of a university that promotes entrepreneurship and fosters optimal Triple Helix (TH) dynamics and impacts. Based on 15 interviews with TH institutional actors—university, industry, government, and other hybrid entities involved in their networks, we developed a qualitative inductive study that integrates the inputs of TH networks within the framework of developing a practical perspective on this theme. Our research identifies three key areas of focus that are all crucial for ensuring successful DT processes—(a) focus on overcoming the barriers; (b) focus on capitalizing on knowledge; (c) focus on coping with change—facets essential to understanding the role of DTC in securing the overall success of DT processes.
High‐humidity hot‐air impingement blanching conditions for the inhibition of potato‐browning enzymes and for quality retention
Authors: Mowafy Samir , Liu Yanhong
Published: November 2023

BACKGROUND

Potato is an important non‐cereal crop. It provides carbohydrates, a major source of energy in the human diet. Blanching during the processing of fresh fruits and vegetables is essential for their preservation. High‐humidity hot‐air impingement blanching (HHAIB) is a promising emerging technology for pretreating different food materials. This research aimed to identify the optimum HHAIB conditions for the inhibition of potato‐browning enzymes, maintaining their nutritional and physical quality, and to compare this with conventional hot‐water blanching (HWB).

RESULTS

Polyphenol oxidase (PPO) inactivation, total phenol content (TPC), 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging activity, color, textural attributes, thermal properties, microstructure, and particles crystallinity were evaluated. The relative humidity (RH), temperature, and duration of HHAIB required for PPO inactivation (2.59%) were 50%, 105 °C, and 4 min, respectively, which resulted in a complete gelatigination of potato starches, based on the thermal properties and the microstrcture of the blanched potatoes. These conditions led to improvements in TPC to 312.54 μg GAE.g−1 FP, DPPH scavenging to 1.99 μmol TE.g−1 FP, as well as enhancements in color and crystallinity. When HHAIB was conducted at lower temperatures (85 and 95 °C) there were negative effects on the blanched potatoes' color and crystallinity, along with a non‐safe level of PPO activity.

CONCLUSION

High‐humidity hot‐air impingement blanching was superior to HWB, inhibiting PPO, maintaining nutrients, and preserving physical properties, especially under the optimum conditions revealed by the principal component analysis. It provides an excellent technique for blanching and pretreating potatoes, preserving them, and maintaining their quality. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
The exogenous application of naringenin and rosmarinic acid modulates functional traits in Lepidium sativum
Authors: Salehi Hajar , Zhang Leilei , Alp‐Turgut Fatma Nur , Arikan Busra , Elbasan Fevzi , Ozfidan‐Konakci Ceyda , Balcı Melike , Zengin Gökhan , Yildiztugay Evren , Lucini Luigi
Published: November 2023

BACKGROUND

Phenolic modulators have attracted attention for their potential in shaping functional traits in plants. This work investigated the impact of naringenin (Nar) and rosmarinic acid (RA) on the functional properties of Lepidium sativum leaves and roots.

Results

Untargeted metabolomics identified a diverse phenolic profile, including flavonoids, phenolic acids, low molecular weight phenolics, lignans, and stilbenes. Cluster, analysis of variance multiblock orthogonal partial least squares (AMOPLS), and orthogonal projection to latent structures discriminant analysis (OPLS‐DA) multivariate analyses confirmed tissue‐specific modulation of bioactive compounds. The tissue was the hierarchically most influential factor, explaining 27% of observed variability, while the treatment and their interaction were statistically insignificant. Thereafter, various in vitro assays were employed to assess antioxidant capacity, including 1,1‐diphenyl‐2‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), 2,2′‐azino‐bis(3‐ethylbenzothiazoline)‐6‐sulfonic acid (ABTS) radical scavenging activity, cupric ion reducing antioxidant capacity (CUPRAC), and ferric ion reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), metal chelating ability, and phosphomolybdenum (PMD) assays. Extracts were also tested for inhibitory effects on cholinesterase, amylase, glucosidase, and tyrosinase enzymes. RA application positively impacted antioxidant and enzyme inhibitory activities, holding valuable implications in shaping the health‐promoting properties of L. sativum.

Conclusion

The untargeted metabolomics analysis showed a significant tissue‐dependent modulation of bioactive compounds, determining no synergistic effect between applying phenolic compounds in combination. Specifically, the sole application of RA increased anthocyanins and hydroxyphenyl propanoic acid content on leaves, which was strictly related to enhancing the biological activities. © 2023 The Authors. Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Shared Genetic Architecture between Parkinson's Disease and Brain Structural Phenotypes
Authors: Ma Dong‐rui , Li Shuang‐jie , Shi Jing‐jing , Liang Yuan‐yuan , Hu Zheng‐wei , Hao Xiao‐yan , Li Meng‐jie , Guo Meng‐nan , Zuo Chun‐yan , Yu Wen‐kai , Mao Cheng‐yuan , Tang Mi‐bo , Zhang Chan , Xu Yu‐ming , Wu Jun , Sun Shi‐lei , Shi Chang‐he
Published: November 2023

Background

Patients with Parkinson's disease (PD) have consistently demonstrated brain structure abnormalities, indicating the presence of shared etiological and pathological processes between PD and brain structures; however, the genetic relationship remains poorly understood.

Objective

The aim of this study was to investigate the extent of shared genetic architecture between PD and brain structural phenotypes (BSPs) and to identify shared genomic loci.

Methods

We used the summary statistics from genome‐wide association studies to conduct MiXeR and conditional/conjunctional false discovery rate analyses to investigate the shared genetic signatures between PD and BSPs. Subsequent expression quantitative trait loci mapping in the human brain and enrichment analyses were also performed.

Results

MiXeR analysis identified genetic overlap between PD and various BSPs, including total cortical surface area, average cortical thickness, and specific brain volumetric structures. Further analysis using conditional false discovery rate (FDR) identified 21 novel PD risk loci on associations with BSPs at conditional FDR < 0.01, and the conjunctional FDR analysis demonstrated that PD shared several genomic loci with certain BSPs at conjunctional FDR < 0.05. Among the shared loci, 16 credible mapped genes showed high expression in the brain tissues and were primarily associated with immune function–related biological processes.

Conclusions

We confirmed the polygenic overlap with mixed directions of allelic effects between PD and BSPs and identified multiple shared genomic loci and risk genes, which are likely related to immune‐related biological processes. These findings provide insight into the complex genetic architecture associated with PD. © 2023 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
COVID‐19 cooling: Nanostrategies targeting cytokine storm for controlling severe and critical symptoms
Authors: Zheng Yu , Li Yuke , Li Mao , Wang Rujing , Jiang Yuhong , Zhao Mengnan , Lu Jun , Li Rui , Li Xiaofang , Shi Sanjun
Published: November 2023

As severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) variants continue to wreak havoc worldwide, the “Cytokine Storm” (CS, also known as the inflammatory storm) or Cytokine Release Syndrome has reemerged in the public consciousness. CS is a significant contributor to the deterioration of infected individuals. Therefore, CS control is of great significance for the treatment of critically ill patients and the reduction of mortality rates. With the occurrence of variants, concerns regarding the efficacy of vaccines and antiviral drugs with a broad spectrum have grown. We should make an effort to modernize treatment strategies to address the challenges posed by mutations. Thus, in addition to the requirement for additional clinical data to monitor the long‐term effects of vaccines and broad‐spectrum antiviral drugs, we can use CS as an entry point and therapeutic target to alleviate the severity of the disease in patients. To effectively combat the mutation, new technologies for neutralizing or controlling CS must be developed. In recent years, nanotechnology has been widely applied in the biomedical field, opening up a plethora of opportunities for CS. Here, we put forward the view of cytokine storm as a therapeutic target can be used to treat critically ill patients by expounding the relationship between coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) and CS and the mechanisms associated with CS. We pay special attention to the representative strategies of nanomaterials in current neutral and CS research, as well as their potential chemical design and principles. We hope that the nanostrategies described in this review provide attractive treatment options for severe and critical COVID‐19 caused by CS.
Future projections of wet snow accretion and snowfall in Kanto Plain, Japan, using a large ensemble climate simulation
Authors: Asano Yuki , Kusaka Hiroyuki , Inatsu Masaru
Published: November 2023

Snowfall and wet snow accretion in the Kanto Plain, including the Tokyo Metropolitan Area, significantly impact the lives of people there. This study used a large ensemble simulation to predict future changes in the frequency of snowfall and wet snow accretion, and the accumulated snowfall and wet snow accretion during an event. We assessed wet snow accretion using a model that considers the effects of temperature, precipitation, wind speed, and humidity. The future snowfall event frequency and accumulated snowfall were predicted to decrease by 0.73 year−1 (61%) and 0.69 mm (11%), respectively, under +2‐K future climate projections from those under the present climate. 87% and 13% reduction in future snowfall events was due to increasing temperature and reduced frequency of extratropical cyclone passages, respectively. Moreover, the future frequency of wet snow accretion events and accumulated wet snow accretion are predicted to decrease by 0.84 year−1 (90%) and 0.73 kg m−1 (29%), respectively, from those in the present. 91% and 9% reduction in future wet snow accretion events was due to increasing temperature and reduced frequency of extratropical cyclone passages, respectively. Snowfall and wet snow accretion risk are predicted to decline under the +2‐K future climate projections from those under the current climate. The risk can decrease more significantly in the coastal areas than in the inland areas. We hope that the information provided in this study will help policymakers of local governments in the Kanto Plain to implement appropriate measures against future snowfall and wet snow accretion.
Non‐uniform sampling to enhance the performance of compact NMR for characterizing new psychoactive substances
Authors: Castaing‐Cordier Thomas , Crasnier Sélina , Dubois Damien , Ladroue Virginie , Buleté Audrey , Prudhomme Cédric , Charvoz Céline , Besacier Fabrice , Jacquemin Denis , Giraudeau Patrick , Farjon Jonathan
Published: November 2023

Efficient and robust analytical methods are needed to improve the identification and subsequent regulation of new psychoactive substances (NPS). NMR spectroscopy is a unique method able to determine the structure of small molecules such as NPS even in mixtures. However, high‐field NMR analysis is associated with expensive purchase and maintenance costs. For more than a decade, compact NMR spectrometers have changed this paradigm. It was recently shown that a dedicated analytical workflow combining compact NMR and databases could identify the molecular structure of NPS, in spite of the lower spectral dispersion and sensitivity of compact spectrometers. This approach relies on 1H‐13C HSQC to both recognize NPS and elucidate the structure of unknown substances. Still, its performance is limited by the need to compromise between resolution and experiment time. Here, we show that this strategy can be significantly improved by implementing non‐uniform sampling (NUS) to improve spectral resolution in the 13C dimension of HSQC at no cost in terms of experiment time. Gains in the range of 3 to 4 in resolution are achieved for pure NPS and for a mixture. Finally, 2D HSQC with NUS was applied to improve the identification of NPS with the assistance of databases. The resulting method appears as a useful tool for the characterization of NPS in mixtures, which is essential for forensic laboratories.
FAM71D is dispensable for spermatogenesis and male fertility in mice
Authors: Mo Shaomei , Deng Keming , Cao Congcong , Gui Yaoting , Ma Qian
Published: November 2023

In mammals, the generation of sperm cells capable of fertilization is a highly complex process including spermatogenesis in the testis and maturation in the epididymis. In our previous study, we have demonstrated that FAM71D (Family with sequence similarity 71, member D), which could interact with calmodulin, was highly expressed in human and mouse testis. To investigate the physiological role of FAM71D in spermatogenesis, we next generate Fam71d loss‐of‐function mouse model using CRISPR/Cas9 technology. We performed immunofluorescence and RT‐qPCR to examine the protein and mRNA expression in testicular cells. We found that FAM71D was predominantly localized in the round and elongated spermatids. And FAM71D KO mice displayed normal development of germ cell and fertility. Furthermore, testicular histology and sperm concentration showed no significant difference between WT and KO mice. These data demonstrate that FAM71D is dispensable for mouse spermatogenesis and male fertility.
Update on N6‐methyladenosine methylation in obesity‐related diseases
Authors: Cheng Caiqin , Yu Fan , Yuan Guoyue , Jia Jue
Published: November 2023

Obesity is a chronic metabolic disease that is closely related to type 2 diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular diseases, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, obstructive sleep apnea, and osteoarthritis. The prevalence of obesity is increasing rapidly every year and is recognized as a global public health problem. In recent years, the role of epigenetics in the development of obesity and related diseases has been recognized and is currently a research hotspot. N6‐methyladenosine (m6A) methylation is the most abundant epigenetic modification in the eukaryotic RNA, including mRNA and noncoding RNA. Several studies have shown that the m6A modifications in the target mRNA and the corresponding m6A regulators play a significant role in lipid metabolism and are strongly associated with the pathogenesis of obesity‐related diseases. In this review, the latest research findings regarding the role of m6A methylation in obesity and related metabolic diseases are summarized. The authors' aim is to highlight evidence that suggests the clinical utility of m6A modifications and the m6A regulators as novel early prediction biomarkers and precision therapeutics for obesity and obesity‐related diseases.
Robust fault estimation and proportional derivative fault tolerant control for a class of singular systems with interval time‐varying delay and disturbance
Authors: Wen Dixian , Sun Chao , Huang Shengjuan , Yi Suhuan
Published: November 2023

This paper deals with observer‐based fault estimation (FE) and proportional derivative state feedback fault tolerant control (FTC) schemes for singular systems affected by actuator fault, interval time‐varying delay and external disturbance. Firstly, the system transformation method of constructing the derivative matrix into a full‐rank matrix is adopted to transform the singular system into a normal system, which effectively eliminates the impulse characteristic of the singular system. Secondly, in the design of the dynamic observer, fault estimation utilizes the real‐time output error and its derivative simultaneously, which can achieve better estimation performance when the fault change frequently. Most importantly, the observer‐based FTC adopts a proportional derivative state feedback control, considers disturbance and interval time‐varying delay, and the introduction of state estimation derivative term can eliminate the impulse property of the closed‐loop system, which optimizes the design scheme of the fault‐tolerant controller. The obtained sufficient conditions for stability can be solved by the strict linear matrix inequality (LMI), and the superiority of the conclusions will be further verified by the simulations.
Vat photopolymerization printing of strong tear‐resistance and stretchable polyurethane elastomer for highly sensitive strain sensors
Authors: Fei Jianhua , Rong Youjie , Du Xia , Li Huijie , Zhang Xiaomin , Cui Pengdi , Huang Xiaobo
Published: November 2023

Herein, a polyurethane elastomer reinforced with SiO2 nanoparticles modified with 3‐(trimethoxysilyl) methacrylate was proposed, enabling outstanding tensile, tear resistance and suitability for a variety of complex applications. The introduction of modified SiO2 nanoparticles has augmented the crosslink density among the molecular chains. The prioritized fracture of sacrificial bonds and chain entanglement can extend the local damage at the crack tip to the whole elastomer network. This effect might significantly improve the efficiency of energy dissipation, as well as prevent the crack propagation. The polyurethane elastomer, which consists of 0.5% modified nano‐SiO2, demonstrated a tear strength of 23.4 N/mm and superior mechanical stability, surpassing most commercial photocurable 3D printed polyurethane elastomers available commercially. Subsequently, polyurethane composite nano‐SiO2/LiTFSI (PSL) strain sensors with various flexible architectures were fabricated using DLP 3D printing technology by incorporating LiTFSI ionic liquid. The PSL strain sensor exhibited long‐term operational stability and high sensitivity, showing a considerable potential in the field of electronics. Overall, this study has opened up new opportunities for 3D printing of smart structured wearable devices with high performance.

Highlights

We constructed a SiO2 nanoparticle which can be used as a crosslinking agent of polyurethane molecular chain.

The polyurethane elastomer doped with SiO2 nanoparticles is endowed with an excellent tear resistance.

The LiTFSI composite PPU strain sensor constructed by DLP exhibited long‐term operational stability and high sensitivity.
Identification of degradation products of brivaracetam using liquid chromatography quadrupole time‐of‐flight tandem mass spectrometry: Degradation pathway elucidation
Authors: Xu Kehui , Ning Manru , Li Wenqi , Dong Haijuan , Lu Yuting , Hang Taijun , Song Min
Published: November 2023

Rationale

Pyrrolidone‐based drugs find widespread use in treating conditions such as epilepsy and Alzheimer's disease, and in various other medical applications. Brivaracetam, the latest generation of pyrrolidone drugs, has exhibited significant promise owing to chemical structure modifications. Its affinity to the SV2A receptor is double that of the previous‐generation drug, levetiracetam. Consequently, brivaracetam holds substantial potential for diverse applications. As a novel drug not yet included in the pharmacopeias of developed nations, comprehensive analysis and research are necessary to guarantee its safe utilization in clinical settings.

Methods

A liquid chromatography quadrupole time‐of‐flight tandem mass spectrometry (LC/QTOFMS) method has been developed to effectively separate, identify and characterize both the degradation products and process‐related substances of brivaracetam. Stress testing of the sample was carried out following the guidelines outlined in ICH Q1A(R2). The structures of these impurities were identified through positive electrospray ionization QTOF high‐resolution MS and NMR spectroscopy. Additionally, the formation mechanism of each degradation product is thoroughly discussed.

Results

Under the analytical conditions outlined in this paper, brivaracetam and its degradation products were effectively separated. Thirteen degradation products were detected and characterized, shedding light on their origins and degradation pathways. Among these, three degradation products align with previously reported impurities, and two unreported degradation products were synthesized and confirmed through NMR spectroscopy. The stress testing results revealed the instability of brivaracetam under acidic, alkaline, oxidative and thermal stress conditions, while it exhibited relative stability under photolytic stress conditions.

Conclusion

The study developed an analytical method for brivaracetam that enabled the effective detection and separation of brivaracetam and its 13 degradation products. This method addresses a gap in both current domestic and foreign drug standards. The structures of all the major degradation products were characterized by high‐resolution LC/QTOFMS, which is essential for quality control during the drug production process, stability evaluation and the establishment of proper storage conditions.
Comparison of δ13C analyses of individual foraminifer (Orbulina universa) shells by secondary ion mass spectrometry and gas source mass spectrometry
Authors: Wycech Jody B. , Kelly Daniel Clay , Kozdon Reinhard , Ishida Akizumi , Kitajima Kouki , Spero Howard J. , Valley John W.
Published: November 2023

Rationale

The use of secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS) to perform micrometer‐scale in situ carbon isotope (δ13C) analyses of shells of marine microfossils called planktic foraminifers holds promise to explore calcification and ecological processes. The potential of this technique, however, cannot be realized without comparison to traditional whole‐shell δ13C values measured by gas source mass spectrometry (GSMS).

Methods

Paired SIMS and GSMS δ13C values measured from final chamber fragments of the same shell of the planktic foraminifer Orbulina universa are compared. The SIMS–GSMS δ13C differences (Δ13CSIMS‐GSMS) were determined via paired analysis of hydrogen peroxide‐cleaned fragments of modern cultured specimens and of fossil specimens from deep‐sea sediments that were either untreated, sonicated, and cleaned with hydrogen peroxide or vacuum roasted. After treatment, fragments were analyzed by a CAMECA IMS 1280 SIMS instrument and either a ThermoScientific MAT‐253 or a Fisons Optima isotope ratio mass spectrometer (GSMS).

Results

Paired analyses of cleaned fragments of cultured specimens (n = 7) yield no SIMS–GSMS δ13C difference. However, paired analyses of untreated (n = 18) and cleaned (n = 12) fragments of fossil shells yield average Δ13CSIMS‐GSMS values of 0.8‰ and 0.6‰ (±0.2‰, 2 SE), respectively, while vacuum roasting of fossil shell fragments (n = 11) removes the SIMS–GSMS δ13C difference.

Conclusions

The noted Δ13CSIMS‐GSMS values are most likely due to matrix effects causing sample–standard mismatch for SIMS analyses but may also be a combination of other factors such as SIMS measurement of chemically bound water. The volume of material analyzed via SIMS is ~105 times smaller than that analyzed by GSMS; hence, the extent to which these Δ13CSIMS‐GSMS values represent differences in analyte or instrument factors remains unclear.
Recent Advances in the Synthesis of Bio‐based Carbonate by the Catalytic Reaction of CO2 with Bio‐based Compounds
Authors: Wu Qi , Pudukudy Manoj , Chen Baiyu Y. , Zhi Yunfei F. , Shan Shaoyun Y.
Published: November 2023

Excessive carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions pose a serious threat to the natural environment; hence CO2 capture and utilization have been widely concerned in industrial production. At present, the high value‐added utilization of CO2 after capture has become a hot issue. Bio‐based carbonate materials with high commercial value can be generated by the reaction of CO2 and bio‐based compounds, which provides a promising, green, and sustainable material synthetic route. Bio‐based carbonate materials, which are suitable for applications in various industries, have excellent thermodynamic and mechanical properties compared with those prepared from petroleum. In this manuscript, the synthesis and utilization of bio‐based carbonates from a variety of bio‐based compounds and CO2 were briefly described, and the existing problems were put forward in the field. It provided a direction for the green utilization of CO2.
Visible‐Light Photoredox Catalysis in the Late‐Stage Functionalization of Anticancer Agents
Authors: Singh Praveen P. , Srivastava Vishal
Published: November 2023

Visible light photocatalysis has several applications as a method of chemical transformation, with wide‐ranging effects on the production of energy, preservation of the environment, the development of new drugs and human health. The light‐induced sensitization of cofactors for photodynamic therapy in the treatment of cancer is a remarkable application with an influence on human health. The use of this photosensitization strategy in medicine has sparked interest in other photochemical techniques, such as photoredox catalysis, that could have an impact on biological research. The discovery of useful synthetic chemical transformations during the past ten years has made light‐mediated catalysis a highly used method for chemical synthesis. This review will highlight the recent advances of visible‐light photocatalysis through its application in anticancer activity.
Ferula haussknechtii Inhibits Acetylcholinesterase: In‐Vitro and In‐Silico Studies
Authors: Babaei Fateme , Ebadi Ahmad , Dastan Dara
Published: November 2023

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a destructive neurological disease. Approved therapies that target the cholinergic system to control the symptoms have various complications. Natural compounds that inhibit the acetylcholinesterase (AChE) enzyme can promote the development of new drugs. Nature‐derived compounds are more compatible with biological systems in comparison to synthetic library. Ferula haussknechtii is a native species of Iran. In study, we evaluated the effects of its essential oil and extracts on the inhibition of AChE through in vitro and in silico methods. The essential oil was extracted by Clevenger apparatus. Extracts were prepared by maceration for 72 hours. The Ellman's test was used to measure the inhibitory effects of the samples. The interaction of the main constituents of the essential oil with AChE was investigated by Coarse Grained molecular dynamics (CG‐MD) simulation. Essential oil inhibited the AChE with IC50: 44.6 μg/ml. Among different extracts, hydroalcoholic extract with IC50: 41.4 μg/ml exhibited the most potent inhibitory effect. Based on the results of 1 μs CG‐MD simulation, the major constituents of the essential oil inhibited the AChE by binding to the PAS site. The constituents of F. haussknechtii could be considered as a rich source for discovering and designing new AChE inhibitors.
History of the Earth Sciences from the South
Authors: Hore Jarrod
Published: November 2023

The history of the earth sciences has predominantly revolved around the accumulation of knowledge within north Atlantic institutions and networks. This chapter examines a range of recent attempts to resituate this narrative within wider frames and argues for the particular importance of southern perspectives. By exploring southern archives, materials, knowledges, and networks, it becomes evident that the development of modern thinking about the planet extends well beyond the European revelation of deep time. Incorporating these perspectives reveals the interplay between Indigenous geomythologies, imperial and colonial struggles, and concurrent investments in the earth and its pasts within a globalized world. While histories of geology and geoscience have traditionally focused on the construction of new temporalities, this chapter proposes that historians should consider spatiality alongside temporality. By embracing the spatial axis of earth science, historians can gain a more comprehensive understanding of the subfield, accounting for material, political, anthropological, and potentially postcolonial dimensions. I suggest that this exploration of a place-line – how horizons of possible thought differ from place to place – within the history of the earth sciences offers promising avenues for future research.
Predicting the baryon asymmetry with degenerate right-handed neutrinos
Authors: Sandner S. , Hernández P. , López-Pavón J. , Rius N.
Published: November 2023

Abstract

We consider the generation of a baryon asymmetry in an extension of the Standard Model with two singlet Majorana fermions that are degenerate above the electroweak phase transition. The model can explain neutrino masses as well as the observed matter-antimatter asymmetry, for masses of the heavy singlets below the electroweak scale. The only physical CP violating phases in the model are those in the PMNS mixing matrix, i.e. the Dirac phase and a Majorana phase that enter light neutrino observables. We present an accurate analytic approximation for the baryon asymmetry in terms of CP flavour invariants, and derive the correlations with neutrino observables. We demonstrate that the measurement of CP violation in neutrino oscillations as well as the mixings of the heavy neutral leptons with the electron, muon and tau flavours suffice to pin down the matter-antimatter asymmetry from laboratory measurements.
The development of suicide risk in people with severe mental disorders during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic: a claims-based cohort study
Authors: Engels Alexander , Stein Janine , Riedel-Heller Steffi G. , Konnopka Claudia , König Hans-Helmut
Published: November 2023

Purpose

In this study, we assess how the first and second waves of the COVID-19 pandemic influenced the suicide risk of patients with severe mental disorders in Germany.

Methods

We analyzed German health insurance claims data to compare the suicide risk of patients with severe mental disorders before and during the pandemic. We included n = 690,845 patients between October 2019 and March 2020 and n = 693,457 patients the corresponding period of the previous year and applied entropy balancing to adjust for confounding covariates. Given that the cause of death was unknown, we defined potential suicides as deaths of patients with a history of intentional self-harm whose passing could not be explained by COVID-19. Potential suicides were tracked in both cohorts over one year and compared using logistic regression.

Results

128 potential suicides were identified in the period during and 101 before the pandemic. This corresponded to a significant increase in the risk for potential suicide of 27.4% compared to the control period (β = 0.24, z = 1.82, p < 0.05).

Conclusion

The noticeable increase in the risk for potential suicide for patients with severe pre-existing mental disorders emphasizes the call for additional efforts to prevent suicide and to help patients cope with their mental illness in the aftermath of the COVID-19 crisis.
Metadata analysis of retracted fake papers in Naunyn-Schmiedeberg’s Archives of Pharmacology
Authors: Wittau Jonathan , Seifert Roland
Published: November 2023

An increasing fake paper problem is a cause for concern in the scientific community. These papers look scientific but contain manipulated data or are completely fictitious. So-called paper mills produce fake papers on a large scale and publish them in the name of people who buy authorship. The aim of this study was to learn more about the characteristics of fake papers at the metadata level. We also investigated whether some of these characteristics could be used to detect fake papers. For that purpose, we examined metadata of 12 fake papers that were retracted by Naunyn-Schmiedeberg’s Archives of Pharmacology (NSAP) in recent years. We also compared many of these metadata with those of a reference group of 733 articles published by NSAP. It turned out that in many characteristics the fake papers we examined did not differ substantially from the other articles. It was only noticeable that the fake papers came almost exclusively from a certain country, used non-institutional email addresses more often than average, and referenced dubious literature significantly more often. However, these three features are only of limited use in identifying fake papers. We were also able to show that fake papers not only contaminate the scientific record while they are unidentified but also continue to do so even after retraction. Our results indicate that fake papers are well made and resemble honest papers even at the metadata level. Because they contaminate the scientific record in the long term and this cannot be fully contained even by their retraction, it is particularly important to identify them before publication. Further research on the topic of fake papers is therefore urgently needed.
A facile method to determine the molar mass of soft nanoparticles
Authors: Schmidt Thomas , Hohenschutz Max , Becker Moritz , Grabowski Frédéric , Jupke Andreas , Pich Andrij , Wöll Dominik
Published: November 2023

The determination of the molar mass of soft nanoparticles is essential to estimate their (molar) concentration in dispersions. Measuring this quantity by conventional methods, however, often proves challenging. We describe a facile approach to determine the molar mass of (soft) nanoparticles via counting their number per volume using a widefield fluorescence microscope. The method is exemplified on a microgel dispersion as a model system, while it is applicable to other types of stainable nanoparticles. For this, covalent labeling or modification of the nanoparticles is not required. The dispersion is simply mixed with a Nile Red solution in a defined ratio and measured in an optical fluorescence microscope accessible to most researchers in the field.
Macro- and micro-structural insights into primary dystonia: a UK Biobank study
Authors: MacIver Claire L. , Bailey Grace , Laguna Pedro Luque , Wadon Megan E. , Schalkamp Ann-Kathrin , Sandor Cynthia , Jones Derek K. , Tax Chantal M. W. , Peall Kathryn J.
Published: November 2023

Background

Dystonia is a hyperkinetic movement disorder with key motor network dysfunction implicated in pathophysiology. The UK Biobank encompasses > 500,000 participants, of whom 42,565 underwent brain MRI scanning. This study applied an optimized pre-processing pipeline, aimed at better accounting for artifact and improving data reliability, to assess for grey and white matter structural MRI changes between individuals diagnosed with primary dystonia and an unaffected control cohort.

Methods

Individuals with dystonia (n = 76) were identified from the UK Biobank using published algorithms, alongside an age- and sex-matched unaffected control cohort (n = 311). Grey matter morphometric and diffusion measures were assessed, together with white matter diffusion tensor and diffusion kurtosis metrics using tractography and tractometry. Post-hoc Neurite Orientation and Density Distribution Imaging (NODDI) was also undertaken for tracts in which significant differences were observed.

Results

Grey matter tremor-specific striatal differences were observed, with higher radial kurtosis. Tractography identified no white matter differences, however segmental tractometry identified localised differences, particularly in the superior cerebellar peduncles and anterior thalamic radiations, including higher fractional anisotropy and lower orientation distribution index in dystonia, compared to controls. Additional tremor-specific changes included lower neurite density index in the anterior thalamic radiations.

Conclusions

Analysis of imaging data from one of the largest dystonia cohorts to date demonstrates microstructural differences in cerebellar and thalamic white matter connections, with architectural differences such as less orientation dispersion potentially being a component of the morphological structural changes implicated in dystonia. Distinct tremor-related imaging features are also implicated in both grey and white matter.