bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
HSR19-085: A Real World Observational Assessment of the Impact of Immunotherapy on the Treatment of Advanced Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer (NSCLC)
Authors: El Ferjani Belqis , Chandwani Sheenu , Hirschmann Meita , Dibaj Seydeh , Roarty Emily , Zhang Jianjun , Rinsurnogkawong Waree , Lewis Jeff , Lee Jack , Roth Jack A. , Swisher Stephen , Heymach John V. , Burke Thomas , Simon George R.
Published: March 2019

Background: NSCLC is the leading cause of cancer-related mortality worldwide. Recently reported clinical trials have firmly established the role of PD-1 and PD-L1 inhibitors in the treatment of patients (pts) with metastatic NSCLC (mNSCLC). We have established the prospective, observational, real-world Advanced Non-Small Cell Lung Holistic Registry (ANCHoR) to understand how the advent of immunotherapy impacts treatment choices and clinical outcomes. Objectives: The aim of this analysis is to measure the impact of immunotherapy on the treatment choice for the first-line treatment of mNSCLC and to determine the link between PD-L1 expression and the treatment choices made in routine clinical practice at the MD Anderson Cancer Center (MDA). Methods: From May 1, 2017, to June 30, 2018, English-speaking pts with mNSCLC at MDA who provided written informed consent were enrolled in ANCHoR and longitudinally followed. The PD-L1 testing rates were captured and the treatment decisions made were also captured and tabulated. The time of data cutoff for this study is June 30, 2018. Results: Of the 296 pts enrolled in the registry at the time of data cutoff, there were 49.7% males, 82.1% white, 45.9% ≥65 years old, 69.3% smokers, 83.1% with an initial stage IV diagnosis, 87.2% with nonsquamous histology, 36.1% with bone metastasis, 29.4% with brain metastasis, 43.2% with 0–1 performance status, and 21.6% with a known EGFR or ALK mutation. A total of 233 pts had been tested for PD-L1 (78.7%). Predominant reasons for not testing (63 pts) include not having available tissue (26 pts) or the test was not requested by the physician (31 pts). As of June 30, 2018, 38.5% of patients received immunotherapy as first-line therapy either as a single agent (18.9%, 56 pts) or in combination with chemotherapy (19.6%, 58 pts). Only 35.8% of the patients received platinum doublet chemotherapy alone. Two pts received chemotherapy combined with an anti-angiogenesis agent (0.68%). Targeted therapy was utilized either as a single agent (20.6%) or in combination with immunotherapy (2.4%). Conclusion: Immunotherapy is now utilized as a single agent or in combination in more than one-third of patients with mNSCLC. These numbers are expected to increase as data from recently reported studies get incorporated into common clinical practice. Compared to historic experience, there has been a dramatic decline in the use of chemotherapy with an anti-angiogenesis agent.
QIM19-122: Quality Improvement Initiatives in the Second Year of an Adolescent and Young Adult Oncology Clinic
Authors: Bowers Heather , Susko Kerri , Saha Aniket , Cull Elizabeth
Published: March 2019

Background: Adolescent and young adult (AYA) oncology patients have a distinctive set of needs that are often not addressed by primary providers in busy clinical practices. Genetic counseling, fertility preservation, clinical trial enrollment, and individualized psychosocial support are a few key issues to address in this group. The AYA Oncology Program was created in August 2016 to specifically address these issues and mitigate the disparity in care and outcomes often seen in the AYA population. After the first year, we identified several areas in our program that required improvement. These included increasing referrals to our clinic, increasing appropriate referrals to genetics and fertility specialists, and improving clinical trial enrollment. Several quality improvement initiatives were created to address these issues. Methods: The study assessed patients actively under treatment between ages 15–39 from September 1, 2016 to September 1, 2018 that were seen in the AYA clinic. Starting in year 2, patients seen in the AYA clinic as well as AYAs not seen in the AYA clinic were screened weekly by the AYA team for clinical trial eligibility. Additionally, a weekly email was sent to all physicians and nurse practitioners listing patients for the week that were eligible for AYA referral as well as the clinical trials they were eligible for. The research staff was also included on these emails to facilitate communication and enrollment. Results: In year 2 of the program, 66 patients were seen in the AYA clinic, a 16% increase from the prior year. 65% of patients were referred to genetics, increased from 61% the prior year. 39% of patients were referred to fertility, increased from 37% the prior year. Of patients seen in the AYA clinic, 22% were on a clinical trial in year 1, which increased to 28% in year 2. The AYA team screened all patients at the cancer center regardless of whether they were referred to AYA starting in year 2, and over this year, 17% of AYA patients throughout the cancer center were enrolled on a clinical trial. Conclusion: In our quality improvement initiative in year 2, we increased referrals to the AYA clinic, referrals to specialist services, and clinical trial enrollment. Screening AYA patients on a weekly basis is productive in increasing clinical trial referrals and enrollment. The use of a weekly reminder email to providers also increased AYA clinic referrals.
QIM19-134: Improving Access to Bone Marrow Transplant in the Community: The Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Alliance Shared Care Program
Authors: Sauter Craig , Baker W. Jeffrey , Rodriguez Elizabeth , Willumsen Silvia , Morcerf Barbara , Gafford Kristi , Kennington Jessica , Korman Richard , Yu Peter , Pfister David , Giralt Sergio
Published: March 2019

Background: Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSK) created the MSK Cancer Alliance in 2014, a dynamic and bidirectional collaboration with high-quality community providers to enhance access to state-of-the-art cancer care close to home. Hartford HealthCare Cancer Institute (HHC), joined the MSK Cancer Alliance as the first member in 2014. Research suggests that bone marrow transplant (BMT) is an underutilized definitive therapy (Yao et al, Biol Blood Bone Marrow Transplant 2013) for patients with hematologic malignancies and the timing of a referral for transplant has significant impact on patient outcomes (National Marrow Donor Program, available at: https://bethematchclinical.org/transplant-indications-and-outcomes/additional-outcomes/timing-impact-on-outcomes/). MSK and HHC developed the BMT Shared Care program to improve access to transplant, ensure BMT specialist consults for appropriate candidates occur during initial treatment planning, reduce burdensome travel for patients by facilitating care locally, and enhance seamless coordination between local oncologists and BMT providers from initial consult through post-transplant care. Methods: To achieve these goals, MSK and HHC physicians, nurses, and staff created a program that includes: HHC hiring a BMT nurse, who trained for 4 weeks at MSK, and works with MSK counterparts to create a streamlined referral process, pretransplant care at HHC, and travel logistics to MSK; MSK and HHC physicians hold virtual tumor boards to jointly evaluate patients and provide BMT consults at the optimal time; onsite lectures and observer-ships focused on advances in BMT, supportive care, and management of complications like graft versus host disease, leading to the integration of additional clinical services like infectious disease and dermatology; and research, including an MSK clinical trial open at HHC to identify and understand barriers to transplant in the community for patients with newly diagnosed or relapsed acute leukemia. Results: Since November 2015, HHC has referred 86 patients for BMT consult through this Shared Care program, with 35 patients transplanted or receiving immune effector cells (IEC) to date. Conclusions: The BMT Shared Care program effectively facilitates the referral and transplant of appropriate patients while allowing them to receive much of their pre- and post-transplant care in their local communities. Collaboration between BMT nurse coordinators and robust physician engagement are essential to this program. Future opportunities include expanding the use of telemedicine, enhancing electronic data sharing, quantifying and analyzing patient satisfaction, and expanding BMT research at HHC.
Audit Committees and Bank Governance: the Case of Tunisian Banks
Authors: Hassine Sana Ben
Published: March 2019

This paper examines the impact of setting up new audit committees in Tunisian banks on their corporate governance. Specifically studied were the effects of the establishment of audit committees on boards of directors’ effectiveness, internal auditor independence, external auditor effort, and internal control and financial reporting quality. The interview and survey methods were used to collect data from board members and the internal and external auditors of eight Tunisian banks shortly after they introduced audit committees on their boards. The main findings show that the establishment of new audit committees influences the breadth of the directors’ discussions during board meetings. In some of the banks studied, the new audit committees improve the internal auditors’ independence from top management, internal controls and financial reporting quality, and/or result in less effort by external auditors. Some of the interviewed external auditors view the new audit committees as a valuable governance mechanism, especially in cases of disagreement with management.
Vida fabricada: Reptes científics i socials de la biologia sintètica
Authors: Porcar Manuel , Peretó Juli
Published: March 2019

Des que la biologia es va secularitzar i inicià l’escrutini molecular de la vida, la possibilitat de la síntesi artificial de cèl·lules vivents en un laboratori fou palpable. La biologia sintètica contemporània aspira a dissenyar i fabricar noves formes de vida amb la intenció d’obtenir beneficis socials i econòmics, tot i que no s’ha de descartar que també obtindrem, per la via sintètica, recompenses científiques en termes d’una major comprensió de la complexitat biològica a les quals no podríem accedir per la via analítica. És clar, per tant, que biologia sintètica és un terme que desperta expectatives, però no és menys cert que també provoca inquietud. En aquest article partim d’una crítica de la identificació de les cèl·lules amb les màquines per a discutir l’abast dels esforços per estandarditzar la biologia sintètica i exposem també algunes implicacions socials derivades dels intents de fabricar la vida.
Avaliação do desempenho da investigação aplicada no Ensino Superior Politécnico: construção de um modelo
Authors: Patrício Maria Teresa , Alves João Emílio , Alves Elisa , Mourato Joaquim , Santos Patrícia , Valente Rui Pulido
Published: March 2019

Apresenta-se um modelo de avaliação de desempenho da investigação aplicada nas instituições de ensino superior politécnico (IESP) em Portugal, centrado na construção de indicadores quantitativos e qualitativos, na missão destas instituições, bem como no impacto regional decorrente da sua ação. O modelo, apurado a partir de três estudos de caso, organiza-se em três dimensões: inputs, outputs e impactos da investigação aplicada. Inova por representar uma perspetiva holística da avaliação da produção académica, em particular das IESP. A inexistência de modelos de avaliação deste tipo no ensino superior português coloca, porém, desafios ao seu desenho, à recolha de informação e ao próprio modo de funcionamento das IESP (financiamento, organização, etc.).
Redes de sociabilidade, identidades e trocas geracionais: da "Cova da Música" ao circuito musical africano da Amadora
Authors: Varela Pedro , Raposo Otávio , Ferro Lígia
Published: March 2019

As fronteiras geracionais são habitualmente apontadas como fatores de diferenciação social no que toca às práticas e construções de determinados géneros musicais e estilos de vida associados. A partir de uma pesquisa etnográfica realizada no bairro da Cova da Moura e noutros lugares do circuito musical africano da Amadora, protagonizado por imigrantes cabo-verdianos, concluímos que as sociabilidades e as trocas culturais entre artistas de várias gerações, muitas vezes estabelecidas a propósito da partilha de saberes relacionados com os usos das novas tecnologias, por um lado, e com a aprendizagem de instrumentos musicais, por outro, adquirem uma importância ímpar na construção das identidades sociais. Deste modo, salienta-se a centralidade da música nas trajetórias migrantes que se cruzam em vários espaços da Amadora.
Cryo-EM reveals distinct conformations of E. coli ATP synthase on exposure to ATP
Authors: Sobti Meghna , Ishmukhametov Robert , Bouwer James C , Ayer Anita , Suarna Cacang , Smith Nicola J , Christie Mary , Stocker Roland , Duncan Thomas M , Stewart Alastair G
Published: March 2019

ATP synthase produces the majority of cellular energy in most cells. We have previously reported cryo-EM maps of autoinhibited E. coli ATP synthase imaged without addition of nucleotide (Sobti et al. 2016), indicating that the subunit ε engages the α, β and γ subunits to lock the enzyme and prevent functional rotation. Here we present multiple cryo-EM reconstructions of the enzyme frozen after the addition of MgATP to identify the changes that occur when this ε inhibition is removed. The maps generated show that, after exposure to MgATP, E. coli ATP synthase adopts a different conformation with a catalytic subunit changing conformation substantially and the ε C-terminal domain transitioning via an intermediate ‘half-up’ state to a condensed ‘down’ state. This work provides direct evidence for unique conformational states that occur in E. coli ATP synthase when ATP binding prevents the ε C-terminal domain from entering the inhibitory ‘up’ state.
Isolation of cancer stem cells by selection for miR-302 expressing cells
Authors: Rahimi Karim , Füchtbauer Annette C. , Fathi Fardin , Mowla Seyed J. , Füchtbauer Ernst-Martin
Published: March 2019

Background

Cancer stem cells are believed to be a major reason for long-term therapy failure because they are multi-drug resistant and able to rest mitotically inactive in the hypoxic center of tumors. Due to their variable number and their often low proliferation rate, cancer stem cells are difficult to purify in decent quantities and to grow in cell culture systems, where they are easily outcompeted by faster growing more ‘differentiated’, i.e., less stem cell-like tumor cells.

Methods

Here we present a proof of principle study based on the idea to select cancer stem cells by means of the expression of a stem cell-specific gene. A selectable egfp-neo coding sequence was inserted in the last exon of the non-coding murine miR-302 host gene. As a stem cell specific regulatory element, 2.1 kb of the genomic region immediately upstream of the miR-302 host gene transcription start site was used. Stable transgenic CJ7 embryonic stem cells were used to induce teratomas.

Results

After three weeks, tumors were removed for analysis and primary cultures were established. Stem cell-like cells were selected from these culture based on G418 selection. When the selection was removed, stem cell morphology and miR-302 expression were rapidly lost, indicating that it was not the original ES cells that had been isolated.

Conclusions

We show the possibility to use drug resistance expressed from a regulatory sequence of a stem cell-specific marker, to isolate and propagate cancer stem cells that otherwise might be hidden in the majority of tumor cells.
Effects of Fermenter Technology on the Yield of Various Crops in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Pakistan
Authors: . Asmatullah , Khan Ayesha , Parvaiz Urbooba , Ullah Rehmat
Published: March 2019

The principle objective of this research was to investigate the effects of fermenter technology on yield of various cash crops grown in Malakand division of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Pakistan. A total of 128 farmers using fermenter technology in six districts of Malakand division were the universes of the study.50.8% of the farmers using fermenter were holding a land between the groups of 1.6 to 2.5 hectares. Majority of the farmer’s 84.4% source of awareness about the fermenter technology were extension worker. Major cash crops grown by the respondents in the study area were tomato, onion and wheat. T-test results reveal a highly significant (P=0.000) increase in yield of tomato, onion and wheat. On average 1668.868 kg ha-1 increased were recorded in tomato, 1293.478 kg  ha-1 increased in onion and 98.791 kg ha-1 in wheat crop. The finding of study suggests that various crops yield were increased with adopting fermenter technology. So the fermenter technology should be promoted and imparted to the entire farming community to meet with the increasing demand.
Myofascial Pain Syndrome: A Concise Update on Clinical, Diagnostic and Integrative and Alternative Therapeutic Perspectives
Authors: Qureshi Naseem A. , Alsubaie Hamoud A. , Ali Gazzaffi I. M.
Published: March 2019

Background: Myofascial pain syndrome is a common multifactorial condition that presents with key manifestations and comorbid with many systemic diseases and regional pain syndromes. Objective: This study aims to concisely review clinical, diagnostic and integrative therapeutic aspects of myofascial pain syndrome.

Methods: E-searches (2000-2019) using keywords and Boolean operators were made and using exclusion and inclusion criteria, 50 full articles that focused on myofascial pain syndrome were retained for this review.

Results: Myofascial pain syndrome is a multidimensional musculoskeletal disorder with ill-understood etiopathogenesis and pathophysiology and characterized by tender taut muscle with myofascial trigger points, muscle twitch response, specific pattern of referred pain and autonomic symptoms. A variety of pharmacological and nonpharmacological therapies with variable efficacy are used in myofascial pain syndrome, the latter modalities such as education, stretching and exercises, moist hot and cold packs, dry needling and myofascial massage or myofascial trigger point massage are used as first line options.

Conclusion: Myofascial pain syndrome and trigger points initiated by repeated strains and injuries co-occur with diverse physical diseases and regional pain syndromes, which need comprehensive diagnostic evaluation using multiple methods. Several interventions are used in patients with myofascial pain syndrome who effectively respond to myofascial massage. This study calls for exploring etiopathogenesis and basic pathophysiological mechanisms underlying myofascial pain syndrome in future.
Vitamin C, Antioxidant and Polyphenol Activity of Some Selected Potato Varieties as Influenced by Vermicompost
Authors: Ferdous` Jannatul , Roy Tuhin Suvra , Chakraborty Rajesh , Mostofa Maruf , Kundu Bimal Chandra , Delowar Hossain K. M.
Published: March 2019

The application of vermicompost may improve the quality of potato. The present study revealed that vermicompost had a significant effect on most of the quality contributing parameters studied under the experiment. Results demonstrated that quality parameters increased with increasing vermicompost level. Among the sixteen treatments combination, BARI Alu-25 (Asterix) with vermicompost at the rate of 6 t/ha showed the highest ascorbic acid (Vitamin C), antioxidant and polyphenol content. In the case of ambient storage condition; ascorbic acid and polyphenol decreased with an increasing storing period while antioxidant content increased with the increasing storing period up to 60 days after storage (DAS). BARI Alu-25 (Asterix) and BARI Alu-29 (Courage) may store under ambient storage condition up to 60 DAS without imparting any significant quality losses just prior to the sprouting of the tuber. It may be concluded that the potato growers of Bangladesh may apply vermicompost on their field at the rate of 6 t/ha for maintaining the good quality of potato.
Effect of Storage Temperature and Preservatives on the Stability and Quality of Polyscias fruticosa (L.) Harms Herbal Health Drinks
Authors: MinhThu Nguyen , Son Hoang Le
Published: March 2019

Aims: Polyscias fruticosa has been well-known as a traditional medicinal herb which shares the same function as ginseng, favorable for their antioxidant capacity. In this study, the herbal health drink had been developed based on the Polyscias fruticosa extract. The effect of preservatives and storage temperature on the total phenolic content, total flavonoid content, and total saponin content were investigated over the period of 16 weeks.

Methodology: Polyscias fruticosa extract based herbal drinks were formulated. Potassium sorbate and sodium benzoate were used as preservatives while storage temperature was set at 4 and 250C. Determination of total phenolic content was performed by Folin-Ciocalteu method. Meanwhile, analysis of total flavonoid and saponin content was conducted by colorimetric methods.

Results: In general, the effect of preservatives and storage temperature on the concentration of total phenolic content and total flavonoid content can clearly be seen after 6 weeks, while significant difference in concentration of total saponin content had been evidenced from week 11. Typically, The concentration of total phenolic content, total flavonoid content and total saponin content in formulas added preservatives and kept at 4°C were measured at 2.80±0.26 mg GAE/g, 8.24±0.44 mg CE/g and 20.29±0.27 mg OAE/g after 16 weeks, respectively; however, without adding preservatives and stored at 25°C, these components were found at a value of 1.77±0.1 mg GAE/g, 0.0±0.28 mg CE/g, 14.63±0.59 mg OAE/g, respectively.

Conclusion: Overall, the presence of preservatives and fridge temperature (4°C) has been the optimal condition to maintain the quantity of biological phytocomponents in herbal health drink; however, the addition of preservatives and storage temperature should be taken into consideration depending on the storage time of herbal drink.
Stack Pressure Enhanced Size Threshold of Si Anode Fracture in All‐Solid‐State Batteries
Authors: Li Menglin , Xue Dingchuan , Rong Zhaoyu , Fang Ruyue , Wang Bo , Liang Yali , Zhang Xuedong , Huang Qiao , Wang Zhenyu , Zhu Lingyun , Zhang Liqiang , Tang Yongfu , Zhang Sulin , Huang Jianyu
Published: November 2024

Silicon (Si) has long captured the spotlight as an anode candidate for lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs) due to its exceptionally high theoretical capacity and abundant availability. However, chemomechanical failure of larger‐sized Si has plagued its electrochemical performance. Herein the presence of a stack pressure‐dependent size effect of Si particles in sulfide‐based all‐solid‐state batteries (ASSBs) is unveiled that can be harnessed to overcome the chemomechanical failure of Si. Remarkably, the application of stack pressure, necessary to enhance interface contact and charge transfer in ASSBs, shifts the size threshold from nanometer scale observed in liquid electrolyte batteries to the microscale in ASSBs. The essence of the stack pressure‐dependent size effect is the suppression of the Hoop stress that causes the fracture of Si particles during lithiation by the applied external stress. This revelation offers an effective strategy to optimize the size of Si for the desired electrochemical performance in ASSBs. These findings provide invaluable insights that offer indispensable guidance for mitigating Si anode failure in ASSBs, ultimately advancing the next‐generation high‐performance Si‐based ASSBs.
All‐Mg3Sb2‐Based Module for Thermoelectric Power Generation
Authors: Hu Jinsuo , Sun Yuxin , Wu Hao , Yu Zhiyuan , Zhu Jianbo , Guo Fengkai , Liu Zihang , Cai Wei , Sui Jiehe
Published: November 2024

n‐Type Mg3(Sb, Bi)2 shows great prospects in mid‐temperature power generation due to its extraordinary thermoelectric (TE)  performance, low‐cost, and environment‐friendly attributes. However, its practical application is hindered by the slow progress of its p‐type counterpart. Herein, a high ZT of ≈0.9 at 773 K is achieved for p‐type Na0.01Mg1.7Zn1Yb0.25Sb2 through manipulation of the electronic transport properties. Then thermal expansion matched barrier material Fe75Sb25 is subtly obtained for Na0.01Mg1.7Zn1Yb0.25Sb2. The contact resistivity no longer increases significantly after aging for 72 hours at 673 K and tends to stabilize, remaining below ≈17 µΩ cm2 after 168 hours. Paired with the high‐performance n‐type Mg3(Sb, Bi)2, the transient liquid phase bonding technique is adopted to connect the hot side of the all‐Mg3Sb2‐based legs to electrode at low temperature, which enables service at high temperature. This all‐Mg3Sb2‐based module displays a high efficiency of ≈8.3% at a temperature difference of ≈430 K and shows good thermal stability when the hot side temperature is maintained at 673 K. This work merits the great potential of the all‐Mg3Sb2‐based device for heat recovery.
Unlocking Larger Scales and Aspect Ratios in 3D Printed Glass: Coupling Active Mixing and UV Curing for Advanced Printability and Crack Resistance
Authors: Walton Beck L. , Dudukovic Nikola A. , Johnson Jason , Yee Timothy D. , Nguyen Du T. , Ellis Megan E. , Porcincula Dominique H. , Krikorian Caitlyn C. , Duoss Eric B. , Dylla‐Spears Rebecca J.
Published: November 2024

Recent developments in additive manufacturing (AM) of glass via silica‐filled inks have facilitated fabrication of previously unattainable geometries and compositions. However, the maximum processable size of 15 mm limits the use of these prints in applications such as optics. A key limitation lies in the trade‐off between material printability and green strength: increasing silica content in the feedstock improves crack resistance and reduces shrinkage but results in dramatic changes in viscoelastic properties that hinder flowability. This paper presents a novel approach that offers expanded versatility in processable size, feedstock formulation, and printing. Described here is a direct ink writing (DIW) system coupled with an active high‐shear micromixer and UV light source, capable of simultaneously printing multiple inks with a wide range of rheological properties. Choice of silica sourc, solvent, UV‐curable binder, and dispersant is used to tune the ink rheology and improve printability and mechanical properties. Imparting high shear with the micromixer while UV‐curing the extrudate allows for increased ink viscosities and reduced nozzle diameters, enabling printing finer feature sizes. With these advances, thin‐walled high‐aspect ratio structures and a crack‐free glass disk measuring 44 mm in diameter are demonstrated, an increase of 3× in the greatest dimension compared to current state‐of‐the‐art.
Improving Molecular Arrangement and Alleviating Nonradiative Energy Loss Using a Chlorinated Pyrido[3,4‐b]Quinoxaline‐Core‐Based Acceptor for High‐Performance Organic Solar Cells
Authors: Tian Han , Luo Yongmin , Chen Zhanxiang , Xu Tongle , Ma Ruijie , Wu Jiaying , Li Gang , Yang Chuluo , Luo Zhenghui
Published: November 2024

The electron‐deficient A1 unit in A‐DA1D‐A structured acceptors is critical for optimizing the efficiency of organic solar cells (OSCs). Drawing inspiration from the high performance of the previously reported pyrido[2,3‐b]quinoxaline‐core acceptors, Py6, an isomer of Py1 is designed with a repositioned pyridine nitrogen atom, and further modified it by chlorinating Py6 to create Py7. Theoretical calculations show that chlorine incorporation strengthens intermolecular non‐covalent interactions and promotes the tighter molecular stacking, as confirmed by grazing‐incidence wide‐angle X‐ray scattering. Consequently, D18/Py7 device delivers the enhanced fill factor and short‐circuit current density, compared to D18/Py1 and D18/Py6 device. Notably, D18/Py7 device also yields a higher open‐circuit voltage of 0.871 V, significantly outperforming Py1 (0.764 V) and Py6 (0.723 V), due to the low nonradiative energy losses. Further studies reveal that introducing Cl directs hole density toward the central pyrido[3,4‐b]quinoxaline unit and decreases the charge transfer state ratio of D18/acceptor. This prompts triplet‐to‐singlet conversion and reduces non‐radiative recombination losses. Additionally, using a mutual donor–acceptor dilution strategy, the (D18:1wt.% Py7)/(Py7:1wt.% D18) device achieves an impressive efficiency of 19.60%. This work emphasizes the great potential of the Py‐series acceptors and demonstrates that chlorine incorporation effectively reduces non‐radiative losses.
Haptic In‐Sensor Computing Device Based on CNT/PDMS Nanocomposite Physical Reservoir
Authors: Kimizuka Kouki , Azhari Saman , Tokuno Shoshi , Karacali Ahmet , Usami Yuki , Ikemoto Shuhei , Tamukoh Hakaru , Tanaka Hirofumi
Published: November 2024

The importance of haptic in‐sensor computing devices has been increasing. Herein, a haptic sensor with a hierarchical structure is successfully fabricated via the sacrificial template method, using carbon nanotube‐polydimethylsiloxane (CNT‐PDMS) nanocomposites for in‐sensor computing applications. The CNT‐PDMS nanocomposite sensors, with different sensitivities, are obtained by varying the amount of CNTs. The input stimuli are transformed into higher‐dimensional information, enabling a new path for the CNT‐PDMS nanocomposite application, which is implemented on a robotic hand as an in‐sensor computing device by applying a reservoir computing paradigm. The nonlinear output data obtained from the sensors are trained using linear regression and used to classify nine different objects used in everyday life with an object recognition accuracy of >80% for each object. This approach can enable tactile sensation in robots while reducing the computational cost.
2q13 Distal Microdeletion: Considering Evidence for an Emerging Syndrome Versus Susceptibility Locus: Twenty‐Five New Cases and Review of the Literature
Authors: Elron Eyal , Shohat Mordechai , Basel‐Salmon Lina , Kahana Sarit , Matar Reut , Klein Kochav , Agmon‐Fishman Ifaat , Gurevitch Merav , Berger Rachel , Brabbing‐Goldstein Dana , Levy Michal , Maya Idit
Published: November 2024

This study investigates distal 2q13 microdeletion, presenting the largest cohort to date, including prenatal cases, alongside a comprehensive literature review. A retrospective analysis was conducted on distal 2q13 microdeletions from clinical charts and laboratory reports. The cohort was divided into “clinically indicated” and “not‐clinically indicated” groups based on the reason for chromosomal microarray testing. Clinical cases from medical literature were reviewed and compared with our cohort. The study included 25 cases: 17 index patients and 8 family members, with 47% males and 53% females. Of these, 2 were postnatal and 15 were prenatal. In the “clinically indicated” group, 35% had abnormalities on prenatal ultrasound, while 65% in the “not‐clinically indicated” group had no major anomalies. Inheritance was 50% paternal in the “clinically indicated” group, and in the “not‐clinically indicated” group, 44% paternal, 22% maternal, and 33% de novo. Symptoms varied from asymptomatic to severe developmental issues. Literature review identified 51 postnatal cases, with intellectual disability, and dysmorphism being common features. Familial cases showed 20% de novo, 20% maternal, 21.5% paternal, and 40% unknown inheritance. Distal 2q13 microdeletion is linked to cognitive impairment risk and should be reported in test results based on parental preferences, requiring special considerations for clinical classification and reporting.
Precisely Tailoring the Second Coordination Sphere of a Cobalt Single‐Atom Catalyst for Selective Hydrogenation of Halogenated Nitroarenes
Authors: Chen Guangyu , Gu Juwen , Gong Wanbing , Li Jiawei , Li Jiayi , Qiu Songbai , Long Ran , Zhao Huijun , Xiong Yujie
Published: November 2024

The development of highly efficient and cost‐effective nonprecious metal catalysts for the selective hydrogenation of halogenated nitroarenes is very appealing yet challenging. Here, we demonstrate that the hydrogenation activity and selectivity of Co single‐atom catalyst (SAC) can be tuned by tailoring the structure of second coordination sphere via P doping. As revealed by synchrotron radiation‐based X‐ray absorption spectroscopy characterizations, such a P doping on N‐coordinated Co SAC results in the unsymmetric Co‐N4P1 coordination structure. With a combination of experimental characterizations and theoretical simulations, we find that tailoring the second coordination sphere can greatly improve H2 dissociation and product desorption. As a result, the Co‐N4P1 SAC exhibits superior activity, selectivity and stability for the hydrogenation of halogenated nitroarenes to corresponding amines (20 examples, >99 % yields) at 80 °C under 0.5 MPa H2 pressure, significantly outperforming most heterogeneous catalysts reported in the literature. We expect that this work opens a new avenue for the design of highly efficient nonprecious metal SACs for important hydrogenation reactions.
Assessing Potential Spawning and Nursery Habitat Availability in the River Rhine for the Critically Endangered European Sturgeon
Authors: Brevé Niels W. P. , van Dieren Debora A. J. , Weeber Marc , Mosselman Erik , Nagelkerke Leopold A. J. , Murk AlberTinka J. , Buijse Anthonie D.
Published: November 2024

Information about reproductive habitat and migration pathways is of paramount importance to restore migratory fish species. This study assesses the availability of spawning and nursery habitats for the European sturgeon (Acipenser sturio) in the delta and lower Rhine (covering over 350 river kilometres) as part of a larger feasibility assessment for a future restoration of this critically endangered species. The general approach has three steps: (1) the identification of the species' specific habitat requirements, based on a systematic literature review; (2) the collection and preprocessing of data from two countries, including the 1D and 2D modelling of water depths and flow velocities; and (3) GIS‐based mapping of spawning and nursery habitat. Based on a HSI score of 1, we identify a total of 0.75 km2 as minimal spawning habitat, potentially suitable for approximately 2500 female European sturgeons (one spawning site would use ~300 m2). This is sufficient, as currently, only an estimated maximum number of 750 adults exist. Suitable spawning habitat is mainly located in the German state of North Rhine‐Westphalia, whereas suitable nursery habitat is mainly located in the Netherlands. The availability is, however, significantly reduced by coastal infrastructure (damming) and inland navigation. The insights gained can be used to assess the current suitability of the river Rhine for the species' reintroduction and to identify opportunities for habitat restoration and protection for various life stages. The outcomes thus play an essential role in the conservation of the species. In addition, the modelling approach developed could be applied to other northwestern European rivers. This broader application would allow intercomparison and support decisions about which rivers are best suited for future reintroduction of the critically endangered European sturgeon.
Green's Function Approach for Late‐Time Tail and Echoes in Damour–Solodukhin Type Wormholes
Authors: Qian Wei‐Liang , Pan Qiyuan , Li Guan‐Ru , Guo Hong , Lin Kai , Yue Rui‐Hong
Published: November 2024

This study elaborates on two distinctive features in Damour–Solodukhin wormhole's waveforms: late‐time tails and echoes. As a well‐known black hole mimicker, these characteristics are crucial in differentiating wormholes from classical black holes. They emerge in the final phases of quasinormal oscillations and arise from specific structures in the Green's function. The late‐time tail results from branch cut contributions, indicating a need to refine our interpretation of spacetime geometry. The echoes originate from additional quasinormal modes, similar to scenarios with metric discontinuities. These observations suggest that late‐time wave behavior could be a unique signature of wormholes. Furthermore, the study hints at a possible interaction between late‐time tails and echoes in the waveform's evolution.
Effect of In Vitro Digestion on Anticancer and Antioxidant Activity of Phenolic Extracts From Latex of Fig Fruit (Ficus carica L.)
Authors: Yeniocak Salih , Karaduman‐Yeşildal Tuğçe , Arslan Mustafa Enes , Toraman Gizem Cansu , Yücetepe Aysun
Published: November 2024

In this study, changes in total phenolic content (TPC), phenolic profile, and antioxidant activity and anticancer activity against cervix cancer and colorectal cancer cell lines of phenolic extracts of black and white fig (Ficus carica L.) latex (milk) were investigated during in vitro gastrointestinal digestions for the first time. The findings indicated that the in vitro digestion process exerted a significant effect on TPC of the phenolic extract from white fig milk (WFM‐PE) and phenolic extract from black fig milk (BFM‐PE), and TPC tended to decrease after in vitro digestion (p < 0.05). As consistent with these findings, antioxidant activity (by the CUPRAC method) of the samples decreased (p < 0.05) during in vitro digestion. The IC50 value of the undigested BFM‐PE was significantly lower than that of the undigested WFM‐PE (p < 0.05). The undigested and the digested WFM‐PE and BFM‐PE did not show any cytotoxic activity against normal cells. However, anticancer activity of WFM‐PE on cervix and colorectal cancer cell lines (p < 0.05) and anticancer activity of BFM‐PE against colorectal cancer cell lines decreased after in vitro digestion (p < 0.01). On the other hand, the dominant phenolic was catechin hydrate and was syringic acid.
Recent Studies on Heterocyclic Cholinesterase Inhibitors Against Alzheimer's Disease
Authors: Tok Fatih
Published: November 2024

Alzheimer's disease is a progressive and neurodegenerative disease characterized by impairment in emotion, language, memory, and cognitive judgment. There are many factors related to Alzheimer's disease, such as amyloid beta plaques (Aβ) due to impaired metabolism of amyloid precursor protein (APP), tau hyperphosphorylation, and accumulation of neurofibrillary tangles, and disruption of the cholinergic system. Disruption of the cholinergic system responsible for cognitive function and memory processes is one of the important causes of Alzheimer's disease. Therefore, cholinesterase (acetylcholinesterase and butyrylcholinesterase) inhibitors that maintain choline (acetylcholine and butyrylcholine) levels in the synaptic gap play an important role in the symptomatic treatment of Alzheimer's disease. Numerous studies have been carried out against Alzheimer's disease involving acetylcholinesterase and butyrylcholinesterase inhibitors. However, there are very few drugs (tacrine, rivastigmine, galantamine, and donepezil) approved as cholinesterase inhibitors. Therefore, cholinesterase inhibitors are needed against Alzheimer's disease. This review is focused on using heterocyclic rings that show remarkable cholinesterase inhibitory activity for Alzheimer's disease. In this review, chemical structures and structure–activity relationships of recently reported cholinesterase inhibitors are emphasized. This review will give important ideas to medicinal chemists in the discovery and development of potent cholinesterase inhibitors in their future studies.
Unraveling the roles of oxygen vacancies in tungsten‐based ionic liquid materials for enhanced catalytic oxidative desulfurization
Authors: Zhang Mei , Huang Hao‐Xue , Liang Wen‐Tao , Wu Yao , Xiong Jun
Published: November 2024

Defect engineering is often used to improve the performance of catalysts. Here, plasma etching was first used as a strategy to introduce defects to modify the phosphotungstic acid‐based ionic liquids (C14PWIL) catalyst for oxidative desulfurization (ODS) in fuel. The valence band/conduction band value of the catalyst indicates that the formation of oxygen vacancies plays an essential role in enhancing the oxidation capacity. In combination with X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy results, the enriched electrons in the oxygen vacancies can increase the electron density on the catalyst surface, which promotes the electron migration process between the catalyst and H2O2, thus favoring the activation of H2O2 and enabling an efficient ODS process. The desulfurization efficiency of C14PWIL‐P at room temperature is 3 times that of C14PWIL, which exhibits good cycling stability.
Photophysics of Hydrophobic Corroles in the Aqueous Micellar Media and in the Presence of Graphene Oxide and Bioanalytes
Authors: Garai Antara , Bhattacharjee Sanyukta , Seth Debabrata
Published: November 2024

Here two A2B type corrole has been synthesized and solubilized in water via pluronic micellar system by avoiding the utmost mandatory multistep non‐environment friendly strategies for bringing hydrophobic non‐ionic corroles in aqueous medium. Both the corroles were extremely insoluble in water as no absorption spectra of corrole was available in water. However, corrole 2 in the aqueous solution of F127 exhibit characteristic Soret and Q bands due to efficient solubilization of corrole in F127, the micelles formed by block copolymer act as a “cargo hold” for the corrole molecules. Intense emission spectra were observed for both the corroles in the aqueous solution of F127. We further observed that fluorescence properties of corrole‐F127 micelle systems are quenched in presence of graphene oxide (GO) without change in the wavelength or shape of the emission band. The possibility of a dynamic quenching is probed more quantitatively by recording the emission decay profiles of corrole‐F127‐GO system. This quenching of fluorescence intensity of graphene oxide dispersed corrole‐F127 micellar system was partially re‐established in the presence of bioanalytes such as dopamine, ascorbic acid. Therefore, the present work has a future potential application for analyzing the interaction with different bioanalytes in biological systems using corrole‐GO composite.
DMS‐MapSeq Analysis of Antisense Oligonucleotide Binding to lncRNA PANDA
Authors: Romero Agosto Gabriel A. , Cox Ethan , Rouskin Silvi
Published: November 2024

While various methods exist for examining and visualizing the structures of RNA molecules, dimethyl sulfate‐mutational profiling and sequencing (DMS‐MaPseq) stands out for its simplicity and versatility. This technique has been proven effective for studying RNA structures both in vitro and in complex biological settings. We present an updated protocol of DMS‐MaPseq, as well as methodology that enables it to be used for detection of antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) binding to RNA. By applying this protocol, we successfully characterized the structural ensemble of the HIV1 Rev Response Element (RRE), along with its two alternative structures. The findings align with previously published research validating the accuracy of the method. We also demonstrate the utility of the DMS‐MaPseq protocol by resolving and confirming ASO binding at the complementary sites of the P21‐associated noncoding RNA DNA damage‐activated (PANDA) long non‐coding RNA via decreased DMS reactivity. © 2024 Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol 1: DMS‐MaPseq on HIV1‐RRE

Basic Protocol 2: DMS‐MaPseq on PANDA with ASO probing
Exploring the barriers and drivers of ESG in the German Mittelstand: A qualitative analysis of mechanical and plant engineering companies
Authors: Bebic Marsela , Badie Natálie Bruder , Tyll Ladislav , Srivastava Mohit
Published: November 2024

This qualitative study investigates the adoption of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) among German Mittelstand mechanical and plant engineering firms. Through semi‐structured interviews, the research identifies key barriers to ESG implementation, including human resource challenges, conceptual ambiguity, legal complexities, standardization gaps and rapid implementation pressures. Simultaneously, it uncovers driving forces such as customer demands, talent attraction, rating agency influence, intrinsic motivation, executive commitment, and regulatory compliance. Notably, profit and loss (P&L) impact emerge as a dual force, influencing both barriers and drivers. The study proposes a best practice model featuring clear responsibilities, centralization, and ESG integration in processes. Additional recommendations include developing a business case for ESG, engaging in industry‐specific networks, and aligning with prominent rating agencies. This research offers strategic insights for sustainable business practices within the Mittelstand context. It presents implications for governments and businesses, suggesting targeted policies to mitigate barriers and reinforce drivers of ESG adoption.
Emergent polycentric governance in response to drought: Motivations, transaction costs, and feedback in corporate and city collaboration
Authors: Eakin Hallie , Shearing Clifford
Published: November 2024

The threat of service failures because of climate shocks can provoke a re‐negotiation of roles and responsibilities among private and public actors, and a shift towards more polycentric arrangements. This research builds on frameworks for documenting the emergence and evolution of polycentric governance arrangements through an analysis of the enrollment of private corporate actors in water provisioning services in response to the “Day Zero” 2017–2018 drought in Cape Town, South Africa. Through an analysis of interview data, we document the motivations of the corporate and municipal actors to coordinate their efforts to address acute water shortages through a novel governance venue and mechanism: Water Service Intermediaries. We document their experience with collaboration in the governance arrangements that evolved. The case illustrates both the potential, but also the limitations of shifts toward polycentricity in the context of critical resource provisioning. Our actor‐centric approach documents the transaction and material costs associated with new regulatory burdens as the actors negotiated their respective responsibilities and roles. Actors face coordination challenges associated with their dependence on shared physical infrastructure, tensions associated with duties of care towards specific constituencies, and the friction entailed in reconciling their new nodal responsibilities and core missions. While the experiment in this form of polycentric water provisioning was curtailed at the end of the drought, the evidence of feedback and learning among private and public actors indicates a shift in mindsets concerning joint responsibilities for urban resilience, and the potential for future collaboration in polycentric governance around novel issues.