bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intelligent Situation Awareness Based on the Fractal Dimension and Multidimensional Reconstruction
Authors: Wang Peiyuan , Yuan Zhan , Jia Li , Wang Peibing , Guan Xin
Published: February 2024

In order to realize autonomy and intelligence for situation awareness, this paper proposes an intelligent situation awareness model based on fractional dimension information mining and multidimensional information reconstruction. First, some new concepts are proposed, the spatial situation perception is established by 3D reconstruction of the input fusion information, 4D reconstruction completes the situation comprehension and 5D reconstruction seeks the situation prediction. The three‐level situation estimation model is optimized to a more robust flexible model. Combined with the database system, the reasoning learning mechanism, and the diversified human‐machine interface concept, a basic framework of intelligent situation awareness is constructed. Second, the basic process of intelligent situation awareness is provided. Third, based on the flexible configuration method of the situation awareness system and the concept of unmanned weight determination for the situation awareness agents, an efficiency measurement model for the intelligent situation awareness model is also constructed, and an evaluation method for the consistency of multinode intelligent situation awareness is also provided. Fourth, the paper gives a typical electromagnetic situation estimation example for a drilling platform to explain and validate the concepts. Finally, several suggestions are put forward for the next construction of an intelligent situation awareness system.
Doping‐Induced Performance Improvement in ReS2 Field Effect Transistors: Exploring a Heterostructure with In2O3 Quantum Dots
Authors: Cho Hyeran , You Seung Yeol , Kim Gyu‐Tae
Published: February 2024

Rhenium disulfide (ReS2) is a type of transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) that has potential electronic and photoelectrical applications. However, limited research has been conducted on improving its electrical properties and understanding the effect of doping on ReS2‐based devices. In this study, the enhanced electrical and photoelectrical performance of a 2D/0D heterostructure constructed by decorating the In2O3 quantum dots (QDs) on a multilayer ReS2 field‐effect transistor (FET) is reported. The In2O3 QDs are characterized by using a transmission electron microscope, optical absorption, and photoluminescence spectroscopy. The n‐doping effects with improved mobility are clearly observed, which is attributed to the electron transfer induced by the relatively high conduction band level of In2O3 QDs. Owing to the channel migration of ReS2 and traps at the ReS2/In2O3 QDs interface, additional performance improvements are observed, including reduced contact resistance, improved subthreshold swing, and increased photoresponsivity; however, the photoresponse speed is decreased. In summary, the findings suggest a novel mixed‐dimensional heterostructure for enhancing the performance of ReS2 transistors and provide insights into doping‐induced channel migration for 2D materials.
An analysis of tax benefits by race and ethnicity for farm households
Authors: McDonald Tia M. , Durst Ron
Published: February 2024

This research simulates the impact on tax liabilities of five tax provisions that provide benefits to farm households by race and ethnicity. Using pooled data from the Agricultural Resource Management Survey (2017–2021), we find that, relative to White non‐Hispanic principal operator farm households, certain business tax benefits are less prevalent and of lower value for Hispanic, African American, and Native American principal operator farm households due to differences in income and investment levels. Household tax credits are significantly higher for Hispanic and Native American principal operator farm households and Asian principal operator farm households have significantly higher total tax benefits from the five provisions examined.
Rationalizing the Role of Polyoxometalate‐Based Gel–Polymer Electrolytes to Achieve Five‐Fold Increase in the Specific Capacitance of Hard‐Carbon‐Based Supercapacitors
Authors: Nandi Poulomi , Subramaniam Chandramouli
Published: February 2024

Boosting the charge‐transport pathways in gel–polymer electrolytes (GPEs) is important to extract their full potential for non‐Faradaic, supercapacitive energy‐storage devices. Herein, a series of polyoxometalates (POMs) ([P6W18O79]20−, [PW9O34]9− and [PW12O40]3−) as electrochemical polarization promoters is demonstrated to achieve 15‐fold enhancement in ionic conductivity of 1‐butyl‐3‐methylimidazolium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide‐based GPEs. Fundamentally, the three POMs offer systematically differing charge densities (200, 45, and 6.5 e− nm−3) that are linearly correlated to the observed enhancements in ionic conductivities. The charge density on the POMs contributes to the formation of additional charge‐migrative pathways across the GPE, as evidenced from facile polarization characteristics. Importantly, the presence of POM beyond a critical concentration acts as charge‐trapping centers to impede the ionic conductivity of the GPEs. The insights obtained through such detailed spectroscopic and electrochemical techniques are integrated into full‐scale supercapacitive devices with a rationally designed porous hard carbon as the electrode material. The resulting electrode–electrolyte interface synergies achieve a best‐in‐class supercapacitor exhibiting energy density of 58 Wh kg−1, power density of 14 kW kg−1, and a relaxation time constant of 0.66 s, without compromising on cycling stability for direct integration with intermittent energy‐harvesting devices. Thus, the fundamental insights presented here outline the design principles for extracting high‐performance from GPE‐based energy‐storage devices.
Physics‐Informed Neural Networks to Model and Control Robots: A Theoretical and Experimental Investigation
Authors: Liu Jingyue , Borja Pablo , Della Santina Cosimo
Published: February 2024

This work concerns the application of physics‐informed neural networks to the modeling and control of complex robotic systems. Achieving this goal requires extending physics‐informed neural networks to handle nonconservative effects. These learned models are proposed to combine with model‐based controllers originally developed with first‐principle models in mind. By combining standard and new techniques, precise control performance can be achieved while proving theoretical stability bounds. These validations include real‐world experiments of motion prediction with a soft robot and trajectory tracking with a Franka Emika Panda manipulator.
Safety and long‐term survival results of the addition of inotuzumab ozogamicin to the conditioning regimen of allogeneic stem cell transplantation: A single‐center phase 1,2 trial
Authors: Khouri Issa F. , Alzahrani Kamal , Kantarjian Hagop , Milton Denái R. , Gulbis Alison M. , Sasaki Koji , Jain Nitin , Short Nicholas J. , Kadia Tapan , Daher May , Rafei Hind , Im Jin S. , Marin David , Olson Amanda L. , Popat Uday , Qazilbash Muzaffar , Ramdial Jeremy , Rondon Gabriela , Srour Samer , Kebriaei Partow , Shpall Elizabeth , Champlin Richard , Jabbour Elias J.
Published: February 2024

Here we report on the first prospective study evaluating the safety and long‐term survival when an escalating dose of inotuzumab ozogamicin (INO) (0.6, 1.2, or 1.8 mg/m2 on day 13) was added to one alkylator‐containing conditioning regimen in patients with relapsed CD22 (+) lymphoid malignancies who were candidates for hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). Twenty‐six patients were enrolled. Six (23%) of these patients entered the phase 1 study: four were treated at an INO dose of 0.6 mg/m2 and two at dose of 1.2 mg/m2. None of these patients experienced dose‐limiting toxicities. The remaining 20 (77%) patients entered the phase 2 part of the study at the maximum dose of 1.8 mg/m2. One patient developed VOD; this patient had received nivolumab immediately before HSCT while simultaneously experiencing hyperacute graft‐vs‐host disease (GVHD). Treatment‐related mortality (TRM) at 5 years was 12%. With a median follow‐up of 48.7 months, the 5‐year overall survival (OS) and progression‐free survival (PFS) rates were 84% and 80%, respectively. Compared with a historical cohort who received same conditioning for HSCT but without INO (n = 56), the INO group showed no significant differences in incidence of liver toxicity, engraftment time, TRM, or risk of acute GVHD. Patients with lymphoma who received INO had a trend for a better 5‐year OS (93% versus 68%) and PFS (93% versus 58%) than those in the control group. In conclusion, our results showed that INO is safe with no increased risk of VOD when combined with one alkylator‐containing regimen of HSCT.
Iron restriction in sickle cell disease: When less is more
Authors: Castro Oswaldo L. , De Franceschi Lucia , Ganz Tomas , Kanter Julie , Kato Gregory J. , Pasricha Sant‐Rayn , Rivella Stefano , Wood John C.
Published: February 2024

Primum non nocere! Can iron deficiency, an abnormality that causes anemia, benefit people with sickle cell disease (SCD) who already have an anemia? The published literature we review appears to answer this question in the affirmative: basic science considerations, animal model experiments, and noncontrolled clinical observations all suggest a therapeutic potential of iron restriction in SCD. This is because SCD's clinical manifestations are ultimately attributable to the polymerization of hemoglobin S (HbS), a process strongly influenced by intracellular HbS concentration. Even small decrements in HbS concentration greatly reduce polymerization, and iron deficiency lowers erythrocyte hemoglobin concentration. Thus, iron deficiency could improve SCD by changing its clinical features to those of a more benign anemia (i.e., a condition with fewer or no vaso‐occlusive events). We propose that well‐designed clinical studies be implemented to definitively determine whether iron restriction is a safe and effective option in SCD. These investigations are particularly timely now that pharmacologic agents are being developed, which may directly reduce red cell hemoglobin concentrations without the need for phlebotomies to deplete total body iron.
Cortical bone architecture of hominid intermediate phalanges reveals functional signals of locomotion and manipulation
Authors: Syeda Samar M. , Tsegai Zewdi J. , Cazenave Marine , Skinner Matthew M. , Kivell Tracy L.
Published: February 2024

Objectives

Reconstruction of fossil hominin manual behaviors often relies on comparative analyses of extant hominid hands to understand the relationship between hand use and skeletal morphology. In this context, the intermediate phalanges remain understudied. Thus, here we investigate cortical bone morphology of the intermediate phalanges of extant hominids and compare it to the cortical structure of the proximal phalanges, to investigate the relationship between cortical bone structure and inferred loading during manual behaviors.

Materials and Methods

Using micro‐CT data, we analyze cortical bone structure of the intermediate phalangeal shaft of digits 2–5 in Pongo pygmaeus (n = 6 individuals), Gorilla gorilla (n = 22), Pan spp. (n = 23), and Homo sapiens (n = 23). The R package morphomap is used to study cortical bone distribution, cortical thickness and cross‐sectional properties within and across taxa.

Results

Non‐human great apes generally have thick cortical bone on the palmar shaft, with Pongo only having thick cortex on the peaks of the flexor sheath ridges, while African apes have thick cortex along the entire flexor sheath ridge and proximal to the trochlea. Humans are distinct in having thicker dorsal shaft cortex as well as thick cortex at the disto‐palmar region of the shaft.

Discussion

Variation in cortical bone distribution and properties of the intermediate phalanges is consistent with differences in locomotor and manipulative behaviors in extant great apes. Comparisons between the intermediate and proximal phalanges reveals similar patterns of cortical bone distribution within each taxon but with potentially greater load experienced by the proximal phalanges, even in knuckle‐walking African apes. This study provides a comparative context for the reconstruction of habitual hand use in fossil hominins and hominids.
Examining amyloid reduction as a surrogate endpoint through latent class analysis using clinical trial data for dominantly inherited Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Wang Guoqiao , Li Yan , Xiong Chengjie , Benzinger Tammie L. S. , Gordon Brian A. , Hassenstab Jason , Aschenbrenner Andrew J. , McDade Eric , Clifford David B. , Libre‐Guerra Jorge J. , Shi Xinyu , Mummery Catherine J. , van Dyck Christopher H. , Lah James J. , Honig Lawrence S. , Day Gregg , Ringman John M. , Brooks William S. , Fox Nick C. , Suzuki Kazushi , Levin Johannes , Jucker Mathias , Delmar Paul , Bittner Tobias , Bateman Randall J. ,   for the DIAN‐TU Study Team
Published: February 2024

INTRODUCTION

Increasing evidence suggests that amyloid reduction could serve as a plausible surrogate endpoint for clinical and cognitive efficacy. The double‐blind phase 3 DIAN‐TU‐001 trial tested clinical and cognitive declines with increasing doses of solanezumab or gantenerumab.

METHODS

We used latent class (LC) analysis on data from the Dominantly Inherited Alzheimer Network Trials Unit 001 trial to test amyloid positron emission tomography (PET) reduction as a potential surrogate biomarker.

RESULTS

LC analysis categorized participants into three classes: amyloid no change, amyloid reduction, and amyloid growth, based on longitudinal amyloid Pittsburgh compound B PET standardized uptake value ratio data. The amyloid‐no‐change class was at an earlier disease stage for amyloid amounts and dementia. Despite similar baseline characteristics, the amyloid‐reduction class exhibited reductions in the annual decline rates compared to the amyloid‐growth class across multiple biomarker, clinical, and cognitive outcomes.

DISCUSSION

LC analysis indicates that amyloid reduction is associated with improved clinical outcomes and supports its use as a surrogate biomarker in clinical trials.

Highlights

We used latent class (LC) analysis to test amyloid reduction as a surrogate biomarker.

Despite similar baseline characteristics, the amyloid‐reduction class exhibited remarkably better outcomes compared to the amyloid‐growth class across multiple measures.

LC analysis proves valuable in testing amyloid reduction as a surrogate biomarker in clinical trials lacking significant treatment effects.
Meeting report of the fifth annual workshop on Principles and Techniques for Improving Preclinical to Clinical Translation in Alzheimer's Disease Research
Authors: Sasner Michael , Onos Kristen D. , Territo Paul R. , Sukoff Rizzo Stacey J.
Published: February 2024

The fifth annual workshop on Principles and Techniques for Improving Preclinical Translation of Alzheimer's Disease Research was held in May 2023 at The Jackson Laboratory in Bar Harbor, Maine, USA. The workshop was established in 2018 to address training gaps in preclinical translational studies for Alzheimer's disease (AD). In addition to providing fundamental knowledge and hands‐on skills essential for executing rigorous in vivo studies that are designed to facilitate translation, each year the workshop aims to provide insight on state‐of‐the‐field technological advances and new resources including novel animal models, publicly available datasets, novel biomarkers, and new medical imaging tracers. This innovative and comprehensive workshop continues to deliver training for the greater AD research community in order to provide investigators and trainees with the knowledge and skillsets essential for enabling improved preclinical to clinical translation and accelerate the process of advancing safe and effective therapeutic interventions for AD.

Highlights

Translational research is not typically available as a course of study at academic institutions, yet there are fundamental skillsets and knowledge required to enable successful translation from preclinical experiments to clinical efficacy.

It is important that there are resources and opportunities available to researchers planning preclinical translational experiments.

Here we present proceedings from the fifth annual NIA‐sponsored workshop focused on enabling improved preclinical to clinical translation for Alzheimer's disease research that includes didactic lectures on state‐of‐the‐field approaches and hands‐on practicums for acquiring essential translational laboratory techniques.
Timing of Biomarker Changes in Sporadic Alzheimer's Disease in Estimated Years from Symptom Onset
Authors: Li Yan , Yen Daniel , Hendrix Rachel D. , Gordon Brian A. , Dlamini Sibonginkhosi , Barthélemy Nicolas R. , Aschenbrenner Andrew J. , Henson Rachel L. , Herries Elizabeth M. , Volluz Katherine , Kirmess Kristopher , Eastwood Stephanie , Meyer Matthew , Heller Maren , Jarrett Lea , McDade Eric , Holtzman David M. , Benzinger Tammie L.S. , Morris John C. , Bateman Randall J. , Xiong Chengjie , Schindler Suzanne E.
Published: February 2024

Objective

A clock relating amyloid positron emission tomography (PET) to time was used to estimate the timing of biomarker changes in sporadic Alzheimer disease (AD).

Methods

Research participants were included who underwent cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) collection within 2 years of amyloid PET. The ages at amyloid onset and AD symptom onset were estimated for each individual. The timing of change for plasma, CSF, imaging, and cognitive measures was calculated by comparing restricted cubic splines of cross‐sectional data from the amyloid PET positive and negative groups.

Results

The amyloid PET positive sub‐cohort (n = 118) had an average age of 70.4 ± 7.4 years (mean ± standard deviation) and 16% were cognitively impaired. The amyloid PET negative sub‐cohort (n = 277) included individuals with low levels of amyloid plaque burden at all scans who were cognitively unimpaired at the time of the scans. Biomarker changes were detected 15–19 years before estimated symptom onset for CSF Aβ42/Aβ40, plasma Aβ42/Aβ40, CSF pT217/T217, and amyloid PET; 12–14 years before estimated symptom onset for plasma pT217/T217, CSF neurogranin, CSF SNAP‐25, CSF sTREM2, plasma GFAP, and plasma NfL; and 7–9 years before estimated symptom onset for CSF pT205/T205, CSF YKL‐40, hippocampal volumes, and cognitive measures.

Interpretation

The use of an amyloid clock enabled visualization and analysis of biomarker changes as a function of estimated years from symptom onset in sporadic AD. This study demonstrates that estimated years from symptom onset based on an amyloid clock can be used as a continuous staging measure for sporadic AD and aligns with findings in autosomal dominant AD. ANN NEUROL 2024;95:951–965
Effect of Statin Therapy on Cardiovascular Outcome in Stroke Patients with Low Baseline Low‐Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol
Authors: Kim Yong Soo , Jeong Han‐Gil , Chang Jun Young , Kim Jun Yup , Kim Beom Joon , Bae Hee‐Joon , Han Moon‐Ku
Published: February 2024

Objectives

To investigate whether post‐stroke statin therapy reduces subsequent major vascular events in statin‐naïve patients with pretreatment low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C) below the recommended target (≤70 mg/dL for atherosclerotic stroke and ≤100 mg/dL for non‐atherosclerotic stroke) at stroke onset.

Methods

Patients from an ongoing stroke registry who had an ischemic stroke between 2011 and 2020 were screened. Statin naïve patients with baseline LDL‐C below the target were assessed. The effect of post‐stroke statin therapy on major vascular events (composite of recurrent stroke, myocardial infarction, and death) was investigated using weighted Cox regression analyses using stabilized inverse probability treatment weighting.

Results

The baseline LDL‐C level of the 1,858 patients (mean age 67.9 ± 15.3 years, 61.4% men, 13.2% atherosclerotic stroke) included in the study was 75.7 ± 17.0 mg/dL. Statins were prescribed to 1,256 (67.7%) patients (low‐to‐moderate intensity, 23.5%; high intensity, 44.1%). Post‐stroke statin therapy was associated with a lower risk of major vascular events during 1‐year follow‐up (weighted hazard ratio 0.55, 95% confidence interval 0.42–0.71). In a subgroup of patients who were at very high risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease with LDL‐C <55 mg/dL or patients who were not at very high risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease with LDL‐C <70 mg/dL, post‐stroke statin therapy was also associated with a reduction in major vascular events (weighted hazard ratio 0.45, 95% confidence interval 0.29–0.70). The intensity of the most beneficial statin varied by subtype of stroke.

Interpretation

Statin therapy may improve vascular outcomes after ischemic stroke, even in cases of LDL‐C below the target without pre‐stroke lipid‐lowering therapy. ANN NEUROL 2024;95:876–885
Autoimmune Glial Fibrillary Acidic Protein Astrocytopathy Is Associated with HLA‐A*3303 and HLA‐DPB1*0501
Authors: Shu Yaqing , Huang Renliang , Li Qihui , Lu Yi , Yin Junping , Li Huilu , Lan Zhike , Zheng Xiujun , Ye Jinlong , Long Youming , Wang Zhanhang , Xiao Li , Zhou Qiaomiao , Liu Xu , Fu Ying , Chen Hao , Chen Juanjuan , Zhou Yanxia , Zhou Juan , Zhang Liting , Zhou Jing , Jiang Ying , Peng Fuhua , Lu Zhengqi , Petersen Frank , Qiu Wei , Yu Xinhua
Published: February 2024

We determined the genetic association between specific human leucocyte antigen (HLA) loci and autoimmune glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) astrocytopathy. Our results showed that autoimmune GFAP astrocytopathy was associated with HLA‐A*3303 (odds ratio [OR] = 2.02, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.32–3.06, p = 0.00072, padj. = 0.046) and HLA‐DBP1*0501 (OR = 0.51, 95% CI = 0.36–0.71, p = 0.000048, padj. = 0.0062). Moreover, HLA‐A*3303 carriers with the disease had a longer hospital stay (p = 0.0005) than non‐carriers. This study for the first time provides evidence for a role of genetic factor in the development of autoimmune GFAP astrocytopathy. ANN NEUROL 2024;95:901–906
The distress of one‐dimensional fertility in an African family
Authors: Nwoye Augustine
Published: February 2024

Several Euro‐American approaches to couple and family therapy have been instrumental in promoting successful practice of couple and family therapy in continental Africa. This article, however, describes one instance in which an African couple's distress of one‐dimensional fertility could not be resolved by drawing solely from the Euro‐American family therapy tradition. One‐dimensional fertility is defined as a crisis that arises in conditions of sonlessness or daughterlessness in a marriage, that is, in situations where there are only male or female children born to the marriage. The use of medical intervention through the prescription of drugs often worsens rather than enhances the psychological well‐being of couples who suffer from the distress of one‐dimensional fertility. Therefore, it is considered beneficial to encourage the development and recognition of psychological literature that suggests what to be done to control such a distress without recourse to the use of medication or the complicated and sensitive procedure of in vitro fertilisation. The article suggests that the leading intervention package for attending to the challenge of couples with the distress of one‐dimensional fertility entails the exercise of inducting them into the principles and practice of the fertility awareness‐based method of family planning known as the billings ovulation method that is in harmony with the African cultural perspective.
Surface characterization and Remazol Red adsorption by asymmetric polyethersulfone membranes modified by polyelectrolyte complexes
Authors: da Silva Vale Rayane , Bezerra da Silva Vanessa , Marcio Paranhos Caio , Contiero Jonas , Knauss Daniel M.
Published: February 2024

Polyethersulfone (PES) membranes containing 4‐fluorophenyl sulfone‐terminated poly(diallylpiperidinium hexafluorophosphate)‐sulfonated poly(ethylene terephthalate) polyelectrolyte complexes (PECs) were obtained via phase inversion using three different methods that enabled the complexation of polyelectrolytes (PELs) to occur before, after, and during membrane formation. Atomic force microscopy‐infrared spectroscopy analysis revealed varying concentrations of the polyanion depending on the preparation method and confirmed the presence of PECs in the membranes, highlighting an increase in surface roughness. Zeta potential measurements demonstrated positive surface charges for the membrane comprising PES and the polycation. The reduction in zeta potential in PEC membranes corresponded with the neutralization of positive groups by sulfonated poly(ethylene terephthalate. Scanning electron microscopy micrographs depicted surface imperfections in PEC membranes, emphasizing the influence of PECs on membrane surfaces. The water contact angle decreased, indicating increased hydrophilicity in PEC membranes. Additionally, dye adsorption results showcased significant adsorption, with the membranes absorbing at least 60% of Remazol Red from an aqueous solution. Notably, the Blend membrane outperformed others, exhibiting an exceptional adsorption rate exceeding 92%.
Construction and tribological properties of poly acrylic acid‐poly(3‐(methacryloylamino)propyl) dimethyl(3‐sulfopropyl)ammonium hydroxide hydrogel coatings embedded with SiO2 nanoparticles on Ti6Al4V substrate
Authors: Deng Yaling , Nie Lei , Xu Yu , Gao Chenhong , Wu Zhe
Published: February 2024

The development of highly effective bio‐lubricant coatings for arthritis treatment is extremely demanded. Herein, inspired by the efficient lubrication of articular cartilage, acrylic acid (AA) with (3‐(methacryloylamino) propyl) dimethyl (3‐sulfopropyl) ammonium hydroxide (MPDSAH) hydrogel coatings containing nanoparticles on Ti6Al4V substrate were designed and fabricated via UV grafting technology. SiO2 and SiO2 grafted with PAA polymer brushes (SiO2‐g‐PAA) were separately doped into the PAA‐PMPDSAH hydrogel. The PAA‐PMPDSAH/SiO2‐g‐PAA exhibits good tensile and compressive properties compared with PAA‐PMPDSAH/SiO2 hydrogel, with an enhancement of 183.4% in tensile modulus and 60.8% in compressive modulus. The PAA‐PMPDSAH/SiO2‐g‐PAA hydrogel coatings exhibit a low wear volume, 2.9 ± 0.16 × 106 μm3, representing a decline of 32.1% and 61.3% compared with the PAA‐PMPDSAH and PAA‐PMPDSAH/SiO2 hydrogel coatings, respectively. The antiwear performance has obviously improved. The hydrophilic PAA polymer brushes prevent the agglomeration of nanoparticles and promote homogeneously dispersion within the hydrogel. The three‐dimensional crosslinked network structure of hydrogel effectively protects the structural integrity of the polymer brushes, thereby facilitating enduring lubrication properties. This work provides a strategy for promising artificial joint lubrication in biomedical fields.
Vinyl methyl oxazolidinone as reactive diluent to overcome the solubility limitations of highly polar unsaturated polyesters
Authors: Wylezek Maciej , Kalinkin Chris , Gläser Kristin , Adermann Torben , García Romero Iván , D'Andola Giovanni , Komber Hartmut , Lorenz Reinhard , Voit Brigitte
Published: February 2024

Vinyl methyl oxazolidinone (VMOX®) is studied as a new reactive diluent (RD) for highly polar unsaturated polyesters (UPs). Molecules with special structure properties are extensively investigated as components for unsaturated polyester resins (UPRs) and thermosets, particularly for high‐temperature applications. Special diols with a cyclic structure like isosorbide and tricyclodecanedimethanol or special diols with side groups like 2‐methyl‐2‐propyl‐1,3‐propanediol and 2‐ethyl‐2‐butyl‐1,3‐propanediol can provide interesting properties. Bio‐based diols such as isosorbide and 1,3‐butanediol improve the sustainability profile. However, UPs based on such special diols have a higher polarity, limiting their solubility in styrene. This demands a RD, which provides adequate solubility and is suitable for high‐temperature applications. Therefore, our study compares the solubility of highly polar UPs based on special diols in styrene and VMOX®. UPs with different formulations, polarities, and Hansen parameters were synthesized and characterized. The solubility sphere of styrene was determined experimentally with the synthesized UPs. The influence of the special diols on the thermoset properties was investigated in dynamic mechanical analysis measurements. In conclusion, VMOX® as a RD enables full utilization of special diols properties due to the wide solubility window. Moreover, a new class of high‐temperature styrene‐free UP resin was developed.
Self‐emulsification synthesis of epoxy phosphate ester and its flame‐retardant mechanism in flexible poly(vinyl chloride)/magnesium hydroxide composites
Authors: Li Xue , Zhang Junchi , Yang Xiaoqing , Jin Yankui , Lv Zhihui , Lan Shengjie , Zhu Donghai , Dang Li
Published: February 2024

A trade‐off dilemma exists for simultaneously improving the mechanical properties and flame resistance of flexible polyvinyl chloride (fPVC)/magnesium hydroxide (MH) composites. In this study, epoxy phosphate ester (EPE), a hydrophobic surface modifier of MH, was synthesized using a self‐emulsification method. After modification, EPE was bonded to the surface of MH (MHEPE) without altering its morphology. The results of limiting oxygen index and cone calorimetry tests indicated that fPVC/MHEPE exhibited better flame retardancy and smoke suppression effects than did fPVC/MH. The peak of the heat release rate, total heat release, peak of the smoke production rate, and total smoke production of the fPVC/MHEPE composite were 206.0 kJ m−2, 45.90 MJ m−2, 0.0729 m2 s−1, and 9.88 m2, which were 8.64%, 14.00%, 27.61%, and 9.02% lower than those of the fPVC/MH composite, respectively. For the fPVC/MHEPE composite, a compact and continuous char residue formed, which could inhibit heat and flammable volatile migration between the matrix and burning zones. In the gas phase, the dilution effect of H2O vapor reduced the concentrations of O2 and flammable volatiles. The free‐radical quenching effect of ·PO and ·PO2 also played a vital role in extinguishing flame and terminating combustion. Further, the introduction of EPE improved the tensile and impact strengths of the fPVC/MH composites because of the excellent interfacial compatibility between MHEPE and the fPVC matrix. This study provides a simple and workable solution for the trade‐off dilemma, and the remarkable flame retardancy and mechanical properties of the fPVC/MHEPE composite render it a promising cable material.
Novel quinoline derivatives with broad‐spectrum antiprotozoal activities
Authors: Hartman Carla B. , Dube Phelelisiwe S. , Legoabe Lesetja J. , Van Pelt Natascha , Matheeussen An , Caljon Guy , Beteck Richard M.
Published: February 2024

Several quinoline derivatives incorporating arylnitro and aminochalcone moieties were synthesized and evaluated in vitro against a broad panel of trypanosomatid protozoan parasites responsible for sleeping sickness (Trypanosoma brucei rhodesiense), nagana (Trypanosoma brucei brucei), Chagas disease (Trypanosoma cruzi), and leishmaniasis (Leishmania infantum). Several of the compounds demonstrated significant antiprotozoal activity. Specifically, compounds 2c, 2d, and 4i displayed submicromolar activity against T. b. rhodesiense with half‐maximal effective concentration (EC50) values of 0.68, 0.8, and 0.19 µM, respectively, and with a high selectivity relative to human lung fibroblasts and mouse primary macrophages (∼100‐fold). Compounds 2d and 4i also showed considerable activity against T. b. brucei with EC50 values of 1.4 and 0.4 µM, respectively.
Ligandability assessment of the C‐terminal Rel‐homology domain of NFAT1
Authors: Böttcher Jark , Fuchs Julian E. , Mayer Moriz , Kahmann Jan , Zak Krzysztof M. , Wunberg Tobias , Woehrle Simon , Kessler Dirk
Published: February 2024

Transcription factors are generally considered challenging, if not “undruggable”, targets but they promise new therapeutic options due to their fundamental involvement in many diseases. In this study, we aim to assess the ligandability of the C‐terminal Rel‐homology domain of nuclear factor of activated T cells 1 (NFAT1), a TF implicated in T‐cell regulation. Using a combination of experimental and computational approaches, we demonstrate that small molecule fragments can indeed bind to this protein domain. The newly identified binder is the first small molecule binder to NFAT1 validated with biophysical methods and an elucidated binding mode by X‐ray crystallography. The reported eutomer/distomer pair provides a strong basis for potential exploration of higher potency binders on the path toward degrader or glue modalities.
Quinoa as phytopharmaceutical? Urinary elimination of ecdysterone after consumption of quinoa alone and in combination with spinach
Authors: Isenmann Eduard , Yuliandra Tasha , Touvleliou Konstantina , Broekmann Matthias , de la Torre Xavier , Botrè Francesco , Diel Patrick , Parr Maria Kristina
Published: February 2024

The phytosteroid ecdysterone is classified as an anabolic agent and has been included on the monitoring list of the World Anti‐Doping Agency since 2020. Therefore, the consumption of food rich in ecdysterone, such as quinoa and spinach, is the focus of a lively debate. Thus, the urinary excretion of ecdysterone and its metabolites in humans was investigated following quinoa consumption alone and in combination with spinach. Eight participants (four male and four female) were included, and they ingested 368 ± 61 g cooked quinoa alone and in combination with 809 ± 115 g spinach after a washout. Post‐administration urines were analyzed by LC‐MS/MS. After intake of both preparations, ecdysterone and two metabolites were excreted in the urine. The maximum concentration of ecdysterone ranged from 0.44 to 5.5 µg/mL after quinoa and from 0.34 to 4.1 µg/mL after quinoa with spinach. The total urinary excreted amount as parent drug plus metabolites was 2.61 ± 1.1% following quinoa intake and 1.7 ± 0.9% in combination with spinach. Significant differences were found in the total urinary excreted amount of ecdysterone, 14‐deoxy‐ecdysterone, and 14‐deoxy‐poststerone. Only small portions of ecdysterone from quinoa and the combination with spinach were excreted in the urine, suggesting that both quinoa and spinach are poor sources of ecdysterone in terms of bioavailability.
SNe 2019vxm and 2020tlf: two luminous type II Supernovae with signatures of circumstellar interaction
Authors: Tsvetkov Dmitry Yu , Pavlyuk Nickolay N. , Dodin Alexandr V. , Shatsky Nickolay I. , Potanin Sergey A. , Ikonnikova Nataliya P. , Burlak Marina A. , Belinskii Aleksandr A. , Volkov Igor M. , Echeistov Vsevolod A.
Published: February 2024

We present optical spectroscopic and photometric observations of type II SNe 2019vxm and 2020tlf. The photometric monitoring of SN 2019vxm continued for 592 days, two spectra were collected. SN 2020tlf was observed for 163 days and we obtained one spectra. The maximum luminosity of both SNe is high: mag for SN 2019vxm and SN 2020tlf, respectively. SN 2019vxm displays typical for most of SNe IIn photometric evolution: long rise to the maximum and slow brightness decline with several changes of the decline rate. The light curve of SN 2020tlf shows it may be considered as an intermediate object between classes II‐P and II‐L. The spectral evolution of SN 2019vxm was typical for SNe IIn, while for SN 2020tlf only weak signs of circumstellar interaction were observed at maximum light.
Age at autism spectrum disorder diagnosis and its association with child and family characteristics in a tertiary care hospital in Malaysia
Authors: Singh Jasminder Kaur Amarjit , Ling Wong Hoi , Sivanesom Ranjini S. , Huay Cindy Chan Su , Lan Audrey Chong Shuk
Published: February 2024

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder. Despite the absence of a cure, early diagnosis and intensive early intervention can improve the outcomes. However, little is known about the median age at ASD diagnosis in Malaysia or the child/family characteristics associated with early diagnosis. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the median age at ASD diagnosis among Malaysian children presenting to the country's largest public tertiary neurodevelopmental center and to investigate the possible demographic, child, and family characteristics associated with an early age at diagnosis. Data were collected between February 2017 and February 2019 from a database maintained by the child development unit of the country's largest publicly funded tertiary hospital, containing data from an ethnically diverse population. Among Malaysian children attending the clinic, the median age at ASD diagnosis was 48 months. Early autism diagnosis (<36 months of age) was associated with increased severity of social communication and interaction impairments, coexisting intellectual impairment, children from high socioeconomic status families, and children who receive joint care from their families and a maid or babysitter. The study findings highlight the socioeconomic inequalities in the country, a lack of parental awareness of early ASD signs, and the presence of cultural influences on the age at diagnosis of ASD.
The association between pre‐diagnostic levels of psychological distress and adverse effects after radical prostatectomy
Authors: Nilsson Rasmus , Næss‐Andresen Thomas , Myklebust Tor Åge , Bernklev Tomm , Kersten Hege , Haug Erik Skaaheim
Published: February 2024

Objectives

To prospectively analyse the associations between pre‐diagnostic levels of anxiety and depression and patient‐reported urinary and sexual adverse effects after radical prostatectomy in a population‐based setting.

Patients and Methods

In three Norwegian county hospitals, men referred with a suspicion of prostate cancer were asked to fill out a patient‐reported outcome measurement (PROM) questionnaire prior to prostate biopsy. Those who later underwent radical prostatectomy were stratified into three distress groups according to their Hopkins Symptom Checklist 5‐score. Additional PROM questionnaires, including the EPIC‐26 to measure adverse effects, were collected at 6 and 12 months postoperatively. Multivariable mixed models were estimated and post hoc pairwise comparisons performed to explore differences in adverse effects between distress groups.

Results

A total of 416 men were included at baseline and of those, 365 (88%) returned questionnaires at 6 months and 360 (87%) at 12 months. After adjusting for confounders, men with high distress at baseline had worse urinary incontinence domain score (58.9 vs. 66.8, p = 0.028), more urinary bother (64.7 vs. 73.6, p = 0.04) and a higher risk of using incontinence pads (70.6% vs. 54.2%, p = 0.034) at 6 months than those with low distress. There was no difference in the sexual domain scores between distress groups postoperatively, but the high‐distress group expressed more sexual bother (24.9 vs. 37.5, p = 0.015) and the intermediate‐distress group had a greater probability of using sexual medications or devices (63.8% vs. 50.0%, p = 0.015) than the low‐distress group at 6 months. At 12 months scores generally improved slightly and differences between distress groups were less evident.

Conclusion

Men with higher levels of anxiety and depression before prostate biopsy report more urinary and sexual adverse effects after radical prostatectomy. This should be considered both in treatment decision‐making and during follow‐up after radical prostatectomy.
Detection and enzymatic characterization of human saliva amylase
Authors: Vey Chiara Theresa , Kaygusuz Viola , Kayser Josefa Sophia , Beyer Andreas
Published: February 2024

As a rule, an experiment carried out at school or in undergraduate study courses is rather simple and not very informative. However, when the experiments are to be performed using modern methods, they are often abstract and difficult to understand. Here, we describe a quick and simple experiment, namely the enzymatic characterization of ptyalin (human salivary amylase) using a starch degradation assay. With the experimental setup presented here, enzyme parameters, such as pH optimum, temperature optimum, chloride dependence, and sensitivity to certain chemicals can be easily determined. This experiment can serve as a good model for enzyme characterization in general, as modern methods usually follow the same principle: determination of the activity of the enzyme under different conditions. As different alleles occur in humans, a random selection of test subjects will be quite different with regard to ptyalin activities. Therefore, when the students measure their own ptyalin activity, significant differences will emerge, and this will give them an idea of the genetic diversity in human populations. The evaluation has shown that the pupils have gained a solid understanding of the topic through this experiment.
Using green human resource management practices to achieve green performance: Evidence from Italian manufacturing context
Authors: Chiarini Andrea , Bag Surajit
Published: February 2024

The effect of green human resource management (GHRM) practices on employees' environmental engagement, attitudes, and behaviors is well‐known. What is less known is which GHRM practices can have a positive influence on achieving green performance through the mediating role played by people's engagement. To address the research gaps, this study used mixed‐method research design. In Phase 1, this study focused on the advanced manufacturing context of Italy by surveying 540 managers to develop a multiple regression model and test six different GHRM practices as the hypotheses. In Phase 2, qualitative data analysis was analyzed. Our findings highlighted that GHRM practices connected with awards and compensations did not affect green performance. Conversely, a correlation was observed between achieving green performance and practices such as training, aligning management with the company's strategic environmental goals and objectives, involving managers in the process of defining the goals and objectives, and the green reputation of the company and the managers who can act as environmentally responsible leaders. This study extends social exchange theory and opens new avenues for further research and proposes several practical suggestions for practitioners.
Comparison of outcomes following surgical resection, percutaneous ablation or stereotactic body radiation therapy in early‐stage, solitary and small (≤3 cm) treatment‐naïve hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Maher A. M. , Shanker M. , Liu H. Y. H. , Lee Y. , Leggett D. , Hodgkinson P. , Pryor D. , Stuart K. A.
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) is associated with high local control rates in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). This study reports the outcomes of SBRT compared to surgical resection (SR) and percutaneous ablation (PA) for treatment‐naïve, solitary HCCs ≤3 cm.

Methods

This was a retrospective study of patients with BCLC stage 0/A HCC with a single ≤3 cm lesion, treated with curative intent between 2016 and 2020. SBRT was used for patients considered unsuitable for SR or PA. The co‐primary endpoints were progression‐free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS). The secondary endpoints were treatment‐related clinical toxicity rates and local control (LC) rates.

Results

There were 112 patients included in this study. SBRT was delivered in 36 patients (32.1%), 51 had PA (45.5%) and 25 underwent SR (22.3%). Median follow‐up was 23 months (range, 3–60 months) from diagnosis. The 3‐year PFS and OS were 67% and 69% following SBRT, 55% and 80% following PA, and 85% and 100% following SR, respectively. Patients in the SR cohort had significantly better 3‐year PFS and OS compared to SBRT and PA groups (p = 0.03 and p = 0.04, respectively). There was no significant difference in PFS (p = 0.15) or OS (p = 0.23) between SBRT and PA treated patients. The 3‐year LC rate for the entire cohort was 98%.

Conclusions

In patients with treatment‐naïve, early‐stage solitary HCCs ≤3 cm, SBRT was associated with comparable PFS, OS and LC outcomes to PA. SBRT should be considered as a curative intent therapy to avoid treatment stage migration in this favourable prognostic cohort of patients.
Low nuclear expression of HIF‐hydroxylases PHD2/EGLN1 and PHD3/EGLN3 are associated with poor recurrence‐free survival in clear cell renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Luomala Lassi , Mattila Kalle , Vainio Paula , Nisén Harry , Pellinen Teijo , Lohi Jouni , Laajala Teemu D. , Järvinen Petrus , Koskenniemi Anna‐Riina , Jaakkola Panu , Mirtti Tuomas
Published: February 2024

Background

Hypoxia inducible factors, HIF‐1α and HIF‐2α, and their main regulators, the prolyl hydroxylase domain proteins (PHDs), mediate cellular response to hypoxia and contribute to tumor progression in clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC). These biomarkers may improve the value of traditional histopathological features in predicting disease progression after nephrectomy for localized ccRCC and guide patient selection for adjuvant treatments.

Patients and Methods

In this study, we analyzed the associations of PHD2 and PHD3 with histopathological tumor features and recurrence‐free survival (RFS) in a retrospective cohort of 173 patients who had undergone surgery for localized ccRCC at Helsinki University Hospital (HUH), Finland. An external validation cohort of 191 patients was obtained from Turku University Hospital (TUH), Finland. Tissue‐microarrays (TMA) were constructed using the primary tumor samples. Clinical parameters and follow‐up information from 2006 to 2019 were obtained from electronic medical records. The cytoplasmic and nuclear expression of PHD2, and PHD3 were scored based on immunohistochemical staining and their associations with histopathological features and RFS were evaluated.

Results

Nuclear PHD2 and PHD3 expression in cancer cells were associated with lower pT‐stage and Fuhrman grade compared with negative nuclei. Patients with positive nuclear expression of PHD2 and PHD3 in cancer cells had favorable RFS compared with patients having negative tumors. The nuclear expression of PHD2 was independently associated with a decreased risk of disease recurrence or death from RCC in multivariable analysis. These results were observed in both cohorts.

Conclusions

The absence of nuclear PHD2 and PHD3 expression in ccRCC was associated with poor RFS and the nuclear expression of PHD2 predicted RFS regardless of other known histopathological prognostic factors. Nuclear PHD2 and PHD3 are potential prognostic biomarkers in patients with localized ccRCC and should be further investigated and validated in prospective studies.