bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Large‐Scale Bottom‐Up Fabricated 3D Nonlinear Photonic Crystals
Authors: Vogler‐Neuling Viola Valentina , Talts Ülle‐Linda , Ferraro Rebecca , Weigand Helena , Finco Giovanni , Winiger Joel , Benedek Peter , Kusch Justine , Karvounis Artemios , Wood Vanessa , Leuthold Jürg , Grange Rachel
Published: May 2024

Nonlinear optical effects are used to generate coherent light at wavelengths difficult to reach with lasers. Materials periodically poled or nanostructured in the nonlinear susceptibility in three spatial directions are called 3D nonlinear photonic crystals (NPhCs). They enable enhanced nonlinear optical conversion efficiencies, emission control, and simultaneous generation of nonlinear wavelengths. The chemical inertness of efficient second‐order nonlinear materials () prohibits their nanofabrication until 2018. The current methods are restricted to top‐down laser‐based techniques limiting the periodicity along the z‐axis to . The first bottom‐up fabricated 3D NPhC is demonstrated in sol–gel‐derived barium titanate by soft‐nanoimprint lithography: a woodpile with eight layers and periodicities of (‐plane) and (z‐plane). The surface areas exceed , which is two orders of magnitude larger than the state‐of‐the‐art. This study is expected to initiate bottom‐up fabrication of 3D NPhCs with a supremely strong and versatile nonlinear response.
Co‐inoculation of Azospirillum brasilense and late nitrogen fertilization for no‐till soybean production
Authors: Caires Eduardo Fávero , Bini Angelo Rafael , Duart Vanderson Modolon , Ricardo Kaynnã da Silva , Alves Lucas Maurício
Published: May 2024

Soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] is highly efficient in the biological N2 fixation (BNF) process through the association of bacteria of the genus Bradyrhizobium in the root nodules of the plants. However, there are still doubts about the need to complement soybean N demand through N fertilization in high‐yield environments. In addition, the real impact of co‐inoculation of soybean with Azospirillum brasilense and Bradyrhizobium spp. is not yet clear in such environments. A field experiment was conducted from 2012 to 2021 with six soybean cropping seasons in a crop rotation scheme with black oat (Avena strigosa Schreb), maize (Zea mays L.), and wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) under no‐till (NT) in Southern Brazil. Soybean seeds were co‐inoculated with A. brasilense (strains Ab‐V5 and Ab‐V6) shortly after inoculation with Bradyrhizobium japonicum, and different levels of N fertilization were used in top dressing at the start of pod formation (R3). Soybean nutritional status and grain yield were not benefited by co‐inoculation with A. brasilense. Since the increased inoculum rate of A. brasilense co‐inoculated with rhizobia in soybean compromised both N nutrition and grain yield, this practice should not be encouraged. There was no need to complement soybean N demand through N fertilization during the reproductive stage. Soybean achieved grain yields of 5.0–5.7 Mg ha−1 and, even so, there was no need to complement N demand through N fertilization. The results suggest that soybean N demand in a high‐yielding environment under NT could be satisfied exclusively through the optimization of BNF.
Porous Organic Polymers for Efficient and Selective SO2 Capture from CO2‐rich Flue Gas
Authors: Jia Jiangtao , Bhatt Prashant M. , Tavares Sergio R. , Abou‐Hamad Edy , Belmabkhout Youssef , Jiang Hao , Mallick Arijit , Parvatkar Prakash T. , Maurin Guillaume , Eddaoudi Mohamed
Published: May 2024

The quest for effective technologies to reduce SO2 pollution is crucial due to its adverse effects on the environment and human health. Markedly, removing a ppm level of SO2 from CO2‐containing waste gas is a persistent challenge, and current technologies suffer from low SO2/CO2 selectivity and energy‐intensive regeneration processes. Here using the molecular building blocks approach and theoretical calculation, we constructed two porous organic polymers (POPs) encompassing pocket‐like structures with exposed imidazole groups, promoting preferential interactions with SO2 from CO2‐containing streams. Markedly, the evaluated POPs offer outstanding SO2/CO2 selectivity, high SO2 capacity, and an easy regeneration process, making it one of the best materials for SO2 capture. To gain better structural insights into the notable SO2 selectivity of the POPs, we used dynamic nuclear polarization NMR spectroscopy (DNP) and molecular modelling to probe the interactions between SO2 and POP adsorbents. The newly developed materials are poised to offer an energy‐efficient and environment‐friendly SO2 separation process while we are obliged to use fossil fuels for our energy needs.
Biocatalytic Nucleobase Diversification of 4′‐Thionucleosides and Application of Derived 5‐Ethynyl‐4′‐thiouridine for RNA Synthesis Detection
Authors: Westarp Sarah , Benckendorff Caecilie M. M. , Motter Jonas , Röhrs Viola , Sanghvi Yogesh S. , Neubauer Peter , Kurreck Jens , Kurreck Anke , Miller Gavin J.
Published: May 2024

Nucleoside and nucleotide analogues have proven to be transformative in the treatment of viral infections and cancer. One branch of structural modification to deliver new nucleoside analogue classes explores replacement of canonical ribose oxygen with a sulfur atom. Whilst biological activity of such analogues has been shown in some cases, widespread exploration of this compound class is hitherto hampered by the lack of a straightforward and universal nucleobase diversification strategy. Herein, we present a synergistic platform enabling both biocatalytic nucleobase diversification from 4′‐thiouridine in a one‐pot process, and chemical functionalization to access new entities. This methodology delivers entry across pyrimidine and purine 4′‐thionucleosides, paving a way for wider synthetic and biological exploration. We exemplify our approach by enzymatic synthesis of 5‐iodo‐4′‐thiouridine on multi‐milligram scale and from here switch to complete chemical synthesis of a novel nucleoside analogue probe, 5‐ethynyl‐4′‐thiouridine. Finally, we demonstrate the utility of this probe to monitor RNA synthesis in proliferating HeLa cells, validating its capability as a new metabolic RNA labelling tool.
Puerarin alleviates acrolein‐induced atherosclerosis by activating the MYH9‐mediated SIRT1/Nrf2 cascade to inhibit the activation of inflammasome
Authors: Li XiaoNing , Li YeTing , Jiao HuiHui , Wang AiTing , Zheng Man , Xiang ChunYan , Zhang FengLei
Published: May 2024

Puerarin (Pue) has significant antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory properties. This work was designed to clarify and investigate the potential mechanisms of Pue in atherosclerosis (AS) progression.

In vivo, acrolein (Acr) was inhaled through drinking water to construct AS model. In vitro, CCK‐8 assay and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) assay kit were used to detect cell viability. Apoptosis was detected by flow cytometry. The content of malondialdehyde (MDA) was determined by commercial kit, the level of inflammatory factors was detected by ELISA, and proteins were determined by western blot. Pue administration could effectively reduce blood lipid level in Acr‐fed mice. Pue suppressed oxidative stress, the formation of atherosclerotic plaques, and the process of aortic histological changes. Pue pretreatment decreased MDA in HUVECs and maintained the activity of antioxidant enzymes. Pue upregulated SIRT1/Nrf2 cascade in HUVECs. Pue increased MYH9 and inhibited NLRP3 inflammasome‐related proteins, and the inhibition of MYH9 significantly impaired Pue‐induced Nrf2 activation. Moreover, HUVEC cytotoxicity and apoptosis are alleviated by Pue, in addition to NLRP3‐mediated pyroptosis in HUVECs induced by Acr. MYH9 inhibitors effectively suppressed the pyroptosis induced by Acr and prevented injury to HUVECs. In addition, Pue promoted SIRT1/Nrf2 cascade activation in HUVECs. Pue may alleviate Acr‐induced AS by activating the MYH9‐mediated SIRT1/Nrf2 cascade to inhibit inflammasome activation.
A qualitative study on redefining normality in relatives of patients with advanced cancer
Authors: Driessen Helen P. A. , Bakker Evi M. , Rietjens Judith A. C. , Luu Khanh L. N. , Lugtenberg Marjolein , Witkamp Frederika E. , Kranenburg Leonieke W.
Published: May 2024

Objective

To obtain insight into adaptation processes of redefining normality and its influencing factors in relatives of patients with advanced cancer.

Methods

An exploratory qualitative study among relatives of patients with advanced cancer was conducted. Participants were purposively recruited. Ten in‐depth individual (relative only) and 16 dyad (relative and patient together) interviews were conducted, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed by means of thematic analysis, drawing on elements of grounded theory, combining both inductive and deductive elements.

Results

Two adaptation processes of (redefining) normality were identified: assimilation and accommodation. The latter was found to be the main way of adapting to new events. Assimilative coping strategies entailed “continuing to do the same activities as done before the disease,” “difficulty accepting the situation,” “avoiding to think about the disease,” and “living in the short term.” Accommodative strategies involved “arranging practical matters,” “thinking about the future,” “doing what is feasible,” “engaging in new activities,” “accepting the situation,” “seeking distraction,” “living in the short term,” and “focusing on what truly matters in life.” The interplay between the diagnosis and treatment of cancer, a deteriorating disease status, and the accompanying uncertainty about the future was of influence on the relatives' coping strategies.

Conclusion

When the new situation is too divergent to assimilate, accommodation may be necessary for relatives to cope with the growing complexity of the consequences of their loved one's illness. Accommodative coping then involves accepting the changing reality and actively making the necessary adjustments to build resilience and cope with the new circumstances.
A novel nomogram based on inflammation biomarkers for predicting radiation cystitis in patients with local advanced cervical cancer
Authors: Lin Jie , Lin Jiexiang , Liu Linying , Xie Ning , Yu Haijuan , Deng Sufang , Sun Yang
Published: May 2024

Backgrounds

Platelet‐to‐albumin ratio (PAR) is a new systemic inflammatory prognostic indicator associated with many inflammatory diseases. However, its role in radiation cystitis (RC) is obscure. This study aimed to explore whether PAR could be used as an effective parameter for predicting the RC risk in local advanced cervical cancer (CC) treated with radiotherapy.

Methods

A total of 319 local advanced CC patients who received radical radiotherapy at Fujian Cancer Hospital were enrolled between December 2018 and January 2021. Demographics and clinical parameters were retrospectively analyzed. Univariate and multivariate analyses were used to identify the risk factors for RC. Backward and stepwise regression was applied to construct two monograms‐one with primary significant factors and the other with extra inflammatory biomarkers. A DeLong test was applied to compare the prediction abilities of two nomograms. Calibration curves and decision curve analysis (DCA) evaluated its prediction consistency, discrimination ability, and clinical net benefit.

Results

Univariate analysis showed that age, tumor size, stage, total radiation dose, pelvic radiation dose, Systemic Immune‐Inflammation Index (SII), platelet‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (PLR), and PAR were significantly associated with RC occurrence (all p < 0.05). Multivariate analyses indicated that age, tumor size, stage, total radiation dose, and PAR were independent factors (all p < 0.05). Then, the area under curve (AUC) value of the nomogramSII+PAR was higher (AUC = 0.774) compared to that of the baseline nomogram (AUC = 0.726) (pDelong = 0.02). Also, the five‐cross validation confirmed the stability of the nomogramSII+PAR. Moreover, the calibration curve and DCA exhibited the nomograms' good prediction consistency and clinical practicability.

Conclusions

PAR and SII could be valued for CC patients who are treated with radiation therapy. The nomogram based on PAR and SII could stratify patients who need extra intervention and nursing care to prevent bladder radiation damage and improve patients' quality of life.
Exploration of Rhenium Bisquinoline Tricarbonyl Complexes for their Antibacterial Properties
Authors: Fulgencio Sofia , Scaccaglia Mirco , Frei Angelo
Published: May 2024

Metal complexes have emerged as a promising source for novel classes of antibacterial agents to combat the rise of antimicrobial resistance around the world. In the exploration of the transition metal chemical space for novel metalloantibiotics, the rhenium tricarbonyl moiety has been identified as a promising scaffold. Here we have prepared eight novel rhenium bisquinoline tricarbonyl complexes and explored their antibacterial properties. Significant activity against both Gram‐positive and Gram‐negative bacteria was observed. However, all complexes also showed significant toxicity against human cells, putting into question the prospects of this specific rhenium compound class as metalloantibiotics. To better understand their biological effects, we conduct the first mode of action studies on rhenium bisquinoline complexes and show that they are able to form pores through bacterial membranes. Their straight‐forward synthesis and tuneability suggests that further optimisation of this compound class could lead to compounds with enhanced bacterial specificity.
A rare case of heme oxygenase deficiency: A case report and literature review
Authors: Alla Sai Santhosha Mrudula , Agarwal Pahel , Shah Dhruv J. , Shajahan Waseem Abrar , Ramsundar Rakshna , Alla Deekshitha , Ravulapalli Madhavi , Bora Satya , Pillai Sanjay , Bayeh Ruth G. , Repalle Uday Kumar , Suhani Fnu
Published: May 2024

Key Clinical Message

Heme oxygenase deficiency, a rare condition disrupting heme metabolism, has only nine reported cases. We present a 3‐year‐old boy with dysmorphic facies, asplenia, and normal bilirubin levels despite ongoing hemolysis. Blood transfusions sustained hemoglobin while IV steroids managed inflammation.
Cobalt(II)‐Nitromethane Complex as an Efficient Catalyst Of Demanding Diels‐Alder Reactions on the Example of an Anthracene‐Chalcone System
Authors: Jadwiszczak Michał J. , Nawrocka Ewa K. , Kwiatkowski Piotr , Leszczyński Piotr J. , Malinowski Przemysław J.
Published: May 2024

Diels‐Alder (DA) cycloaddition of chalcones to anthracene and its 9‐substituted derivatives is an example of a demanding reaction that is not effective even under increased pressure. In this article we show that an easily accessible complex cation [Co(CH3NO2)6]2+ stabilized by weakly coordinating anion [Al(OC(CF3)3)4]− exhibits good catalytic activity in the reaction. Our screening covering chalcone and anthracene derivatives with either activating or deactivating effects on reactivity in DA cycloadditions show that the catalyst allows to obtain [4+2] cycloadducts with yields up to 99 % under mild conditions, even for 9‐bromoanthracene – a very poor diene in DA reactions. The reaction proceeds best in liquid SO2, which is an unusual solvent for this type of reaction. 9‐methylanthracene ‐ the most reactive diene among those tested in the study ‐ gives two regioisomeric cycloadducts and their ratio depends on the solvent used. Modeling of the reaction with DFT methods shows that Co(II) significantly lowers the activation energy of the cycloaddition. In the case of 9‐bromoanthracene the effect is much more pronounced than with e. g. recently reported redox‐activation of the diene, which is in agreement with much better yields obtained with the use of the cobalt catalyst.
Advancement of Electro‐Optical Properties through Changes in the Physicochemical Composition of Hybrid Thin Films by Doping Reduced Graphene Oxide into a Sol‐Gel Process Solution
Authors: Young Oh Jin , Choi Bo‐Kyeong , Seo Dae‐Shik
Published: May 2024

A hybrid thin film was fabricated by doping graphene oxide into a sol‐gel solution containing a mixture of zirconium, bismuth, and indium oxide. The thin film was fabricated using a brush coating process. The graphene oxide doping ratios used were 0, 5, and 15 wt%. During the thin film fabrication process, the produced sol‐gel solution generates a contractile force due to the shear stress of the brush bristles, resulting in a microgroove structure. This structure was confirmed through scanning electron microscopy analysis, which revealed the clear presence of rGO. Comparing the electrical properties of a zirconium bismuth indium oxide thin film without graphene oxide doping and a thin film doped with 15 wt% graphene oxide, the electro‐optical properties were significantly improved with graphene oxide doping. In general, the threshold voltage decreased by approximately 0.42 V. In addition, bandgap measurements confirmed the improved conductivity characteristics with graphene oxide doping. Since this improvement in electro‐optical properties is associated with the reduction process due to graphene oxide doping, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis was performed to assess the intensity change of each element. Based on these observations, hybrid thin films doped with graphene oxide emerge as promising candidates for next generation thin film.
Unlocking the Potential of Different Types of Biomass‐Derived Carbon Dots as Fluorescence Lifetime Imaging Probes
Authors: Rosell María , Torregrosa‐Rivero Verónica , Herrera‐Ochoa Diego , Garzón‐Ruiz Andrés , García‐Martínez Javier , Serrano Elena , Martín Cristina
Published: May 2024

The ongoing search for innovative and environmentally friendly luminescent materials coupled with customizable physical and chemical properties at the nanoscale positions carbon dots (CDots) as ideal candidates for photonic applications. However, even today, their rational design for specific applications remains elusive due to the unknown relationship between optical and structural properties. Therefore, this study aims to fill this gap by linking the chemical structure of the precursor and synthetic conditions to the final structural composition of the CDots and, by extension, to their optical properties. The study shows that while CDots are chemically stable, their optical properties, which are determined by the carbonaceous core and surface groups, are highly pH dependent. These properties, together with the long fluorescence lifetimes observed in living cells (>10 ns), make these biomass‐derived CDots promising probes for time‐resolved fluorescence imaging.
Practical strategies for establishing yourself as a responsible leader
Authors: Cain Butler
Published: May 2024

Establishing a reputation as a responsible leader within higher education takes time, effort, and consideration. Fortunately, department chairs and other program managers can follow a variety of practical strategies to improve their standing as reliable leaders. This article groups strategies into four categories: building a reputation for financial management, building a leadership reputation among faculty and staff, building a leadership reputation among administrators, and supporting future academic leaders.
Research on the effects of intestinal FXR agonists and antibiotics on the regulation of red kidney bean polysaccharides in the liver metabolism in mice with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Zhang Yunhui , Qi Caili , Li Xingguo , Geng Mengyuan , Lan Honglin , Wei Yifang , Luo Denglin , Bai Zhouya , Guo Jinying , Han Sihai
Published: May 2024

Our previous study revealed that red kidney bean polysaccharides (RKB) exhibit a pronounced hypoglycemic effect on type 2 diabetic rats, while simultaneously exerting a significant ameliorative impact on hepatic damage in these animals. However, the precise mechanism underlying the effects of RKB on diabetes and liver metabolism remains unproven. In this study, we utilized a mouse model of type 2 diabetes induced by a high‐fat diet combined with streptozotocin to investigate the impact of RKB. We administered a combined intervention involving antibiotics, fexaramine, and RKB to elucidate the mechanism underlying RKB's effects. Our findings demonstrated that RKB significantly ameliorated liver function indices and histopathological injuries. Nevertheless, when antibiotics and fexaramine were introduced as interventions, they hindered the beneficial effects of RKB on liver function in type 2 diabetic mice. Furthermore, our nontargeted metabolomics analysis revealed that antibiotics and fexaramine exerted their inhibitory actions on RKB efficacy through modulation of distinct metabolites involved in glycerophospholipid and purine metabolic pathways.
Straightforward Synthesis of 1‐aryloxy‐1,1‐difluoro‐3‐aminopropan‐2‐ols – Accessing Fluorinated Derivatives of Commercialized Beta‐Blockers
Authors: Moritz Jan‐Ole , Liu Shuang , Konieczny Katharina , Michalik Dirk , Kragl Udo , Neumann Helfried , Beller Matthias
Published: May 2024

The efficient synthesis of an array of 1‐aryloxy‐1,1‐difluoro‐3‐aminopropan‐2‐ols in a one‐pot epoxidation/nucleophilic ring‐opening via the corresponding iodohydrines is described. This methodology permits the construction of 1,1‐difluorinated derivatives of commercialized beta‐blockers in addition to unprecedented members of this compound class.
Toward a better understanding of self‐regulation promoting interventions: When performance management and job crafting meet
Authors: Demerouti Evangelia , Roth Colin , Ebner Katharina , Soucek Roman , Moser Klaus
Published: May 2024

Organizations utilize self‐regulation promoting interventions to empower employees in managing challenges and resources autonomously. However, there is limited understanding of how these interventions impact employee task performance and innovative behavior, as well as which processes are critical for their effectiveness. Therefore, a field experiment was conducted to examine the effects of two self‐regulation promoting interventions—the Productivity Measurement and Enhancement Systems intervention (ProMES), a job crafting intervention, and their combination—on individual employee performance and innovation through selected process variables. We collected data before, during, and after the interventions over 16 weeks among 123 employees across three experimental and one control group. Consistent with predictions, participants of the ProMES intervention reported a higher level of perceived team climate, which consequently contributed to greater individual innovative behavior. Participants in the job crafting intervention exhibited an increase in job crafting behaviors, which consequently increased innovative behavior and task performance. Unexpectedly, the combined intervention yielded negative effects on both innovative behavior and task performance. The findings suggest that while self‐regulation promoting interventions increase favorable outcomes through different mechanisms their combination may impair relevant processes and, more generally, overwhelm employees.
The shale oil boom and the US economy: Spillovers and time‐varying effects
Authors: Bjørnland Hilde C. , Skretting Julia
Published: May 2024

We provide new evidence that the transmission of oil price shocks to the US economy has changed with the shale oil boom. To show this, we develop a time‐varying parameter factor‐augmented vector autoregressive (FAVAR) model with a large data environment of state‐level, industry, and aggregate US data. The model effectively captures potential spillovers between oil and non‐oil industries, as well as variation over time. Specified in this way, we find that investment, income, industrial production, and (non‐oil) employment in most oil‐producing and some manufacturing‐intensive US states increase following an oil‐specific shock—effects that were not present before the shale oil boom.
Safety and feasibility of atrial fibrillation ablation after left atrial appendage closure: A single‐center experience of the left atrial appendage closure first strategy
Authors: Chatani Ryuki , Kubo Shunsuke , Tasaka Hiroshi , Sakata Atsushi , Yoshino Mitsuru , Maruo Takeshi , Kadota Kazushige
Published: May 2024

Background

Patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) who are not suitable for long‐term anticoagulant therapy undergo percutaneous left atrial appendage closure (LAAC). The safety and feasibility of left atrial catheter ablation (CA) procedures after LAAC remain unclear. This study aimed to clarify the feasibility and safety of CA after LAAC, including in the early phase within 180 days.

Methods

Characteristics and clinical outcomes of 46 patients with AF who had undergone both CA and LAAC within 2 years (mean age, 72 years; 29 men) were compared between those who had undergone CA‐first (31 patients) and LAAC‐first (15 patients).

Results

The mean CHA₂DS₂‐VASc and HAS‐BLED scores were 4.8 and 3.3 points, respectively. The LAAC‐first strategy was often used in patients with prior major bleeding and LAA thrombosis or sludge. In the LAAC‐first group, the mean duration between both procedures was 212 days, and all LAAC‐first patients, including seven patients in the early phase, could undergo CA without LAAC device‐related complications; moreover, no cardiovascular adverse events were reported after both procedures (mean periods: 420 days). After CA post‐LAAC, no device‐related adverse events (device‐related thrombosis, new peri‐device leak appearance, peri‐device leak increase, or device dislodgement) were observed, whereas, after LAAC post‐CA, 3 new peri‐device leak appearance events and 1 peri‐device leak increase event were observed, especially patients who underwent LAAC in the early phase post‐CA.

Conclusion

Based on single‐center experience, left atrial CA in the presence of an LAAC device implanted including the early phase was safe and feasible.
Asymmetric El Niño–Southern Oscillation and tropical cyclone relationships in the Philippines during October–December
Authors: Lai Tzu‐Ling , Chen Jau‐Ming
Published: May 2024

This study demonstrates asymmetric relationships between El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) and tropical cyclones (TCs) affecting the Philippines during October–December. In El Niño or La Niña years, the number of TCs impacting the Philippines may increase or decrease. These variations result in four ENSO–TC variability types all of which exhibit strong sea surface temperature (SST) anomalies across the equatorial eastern Pacific. The major difference between the active and inactive types in terms of El Niño or La Niña years is related to the magnitude of SST anomalies in the tropical western Pacific (TWP) over the 120°–150°E region. During El Niño years, moderate cold SST anomalies in this TWP region cause an anomalous divergent centre around the 120°–130°E zone to evoke an anomalous cyclone east of the Philippines. In the western North Pacific (WNP), this anomalous cyclone causes more TCs to form and move toward the Philippines, resulting in active TC activity. For the inactive TC type during El Niño years, very weak cold SST anomalies in the aforementioned TWP region correspond with a northeastward‐extended anomalous divergent centre over the 120°–140°E, 10°S–20°N zone and an anomalous anticyclone across the Philippines and its eastern side. Decreases in the formation of the WNP TC and movement toward the Philippines lead to inactive TC activity. The large‐scale anomalies and regulating processes are mainly opposite between the active TC type during El Niño years and the inactive TC type during La Niña years. These two types are influenced by interdecadal variability of the Pacific decadal oscillation. Opposite anomalies and regulating processes also occur between the inactive TC type during El Niño years and the active TC type during La Niña years. The former type is jointly modulated by the positive Indian Ocean Dipole mode and central‐Pacific El Niño.
Hydrogen bond formation may enhance RDC‐based discrimination of enantiomers
Authors: Sager Emine , Tzvetkova Pavleta , Lingel Andreas , Gossert Alvar D. , Luy Burkhard
Published: May 2024

The distinction of enantiomers based on residual anisotropic parameters obtained by alignment in chiral poly‐γ‐benzyl‐L‐glutamate (PBLG) is among the strongest in high‐resolution NMR spectroscopy. However, large variations in enantiodifferentiation among different solutes are frequently observed. One hypothesis is that the formation of hydrogen bonds between solute and PBLG is important for the distinction of enantiomers. With a small set of three almost spherical enantiomeric pairs, for which 1DCH residual dipolar couplings are measured, we address this issue in a systematic way: borneol contains a single functional group that can act as a hydrogen bond donor, camphor has a single group that may act as a hydrogen bond acceptor, and quinuclidinol can act as both hydrogen bond donor and acceptor. The results are unambiguous: although camphor shows low enantiodifferentiation with PBLG and alignment that can be predicted well by the purely steric TRAMITE approach, the distinction of enantiomers for the other enantiomeric pairs is significantly higher with alignment properties that must involve a specific interaction in addition to steric alignment.
Correlating corrosion modes with the microstructure of the 2XXX series alloys: A comparative approach
Authors: Klumpp Rafael Emil , Akbarzadeh Sajjad , de Sousa Araujo João Victor , Gonon Maurice François , Delaunois Fabienne , Costa Isolda , Olivier Marie‐Georges
Published: May 2024

In this study, the localized corrosion susceptibility of AA2050‐T84, AA2198‐T851, and AA2024‐T3 alloys was compared by immersion in three test solutions, specifically sodium chloride solution (3.5% NaCl), EXCO solution, according to ASTM G34‐18, and a solution for intergranular corrosion (IGC) test recommended by ASTM G110‐15 and via scanning vibrating electrode technique (SVET). The results showed higher susceptibility of AA2050‐T84 alloy to all types of corrosion tested compared to the other studied 2XXX series alloys. Corrosion penetration was deeper in the AA2050‐T84 due to its microstructural characteristics as a difference in the micrometric Cu‐Rich intermetallic particle distribution on the surface and related to the distribution of the T1 (Al2CuLi) phase.
Rapid determination of four flavonoids from hawthorn leaves in plasma by ultra‐high performance liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry and study on its pharmacokinetics
Authors: Xu Baoxin , Zhou Weiwei , Li Yanrong , Zhao Shengnan , Du Yilong , Hong Xia , Pan Haifeng , Wang Chenfeng
Published: May 2024

In this study, a rapid and sensitive ultra‐high performance liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry method was established for the simultaneous determination of four Vitexin‐4“‐O‐glucoside (VOG), Vitexin‐2”‐O‐rhamnoside (VOR), vitexin (VIT), and hyperoside (HP) in plasma, which are representative flavonoids constituents of hawthorn leaves. The four components were separated by CORTECS UPLC C18 column (100 × 3.0 mm, 1.6 µm), using acetonitrile‐water containing 0.02% formic acid and 2 mmol/L ammonium formate as the mobile phase, the gradient elution flow rate was 0.30 mL/min. The analyte was quantified using an electrospray ionization triple quadrupole mass spectrometer. The analytes and baicalin internal standard were performed at m/z 593.2/413.2 for VOG, m/z 577.2/413.1 for VOR, m/z 431.1/310.9 for VIT, m/z 463.2/300 for HP and m/z 445.1/269 for internal standard. Among the four flavonoids, the correlation coefficient of the standard curve of each component is between 0.9939 and 0.9987. After oral administration of hawthorn leaf extract, VOG and VOR showed similar pharmacokinetic characteristics; VIT was eliminated in the body more slowly than the other three flavonoids and distributed more in the tissues; HP can be quickly absorbed in the blood. The developed analytical method has high sensitivity, precision, and accuracy with no interference from plasma components and has been successfully used in pharmacokinetic studies.
Exceptionally Stable Cobalt Nanoclusters on Functionalized Graphene
Authors: Chesnyak Valeria , Stavrić Srdjan , Panighel Mirco , Povoledo Daniele , del Puppo Simone , Peressi Maria , Comelli Giovanni , Africh Cristina
Published: May 2024

To improve reactivity and achieve a higher material efficiency, catalysts are often used in the form of clusters with nanometer dimensions, down to single atoms. Since the corresponding properties are highly structure‐dependent, a suitable support is thus required to ensure cluster stability during operating conditions. Herein, an efficient method to stabilize cobalt nanoclusters on graphene grown on nickel substrates, exploiting the anchoring effect of nickel atoms incorporated in the carbon network is presented. The anchored nanoclusters are studied by in situ variable temperature scanning tunneling microscopy at different temperatures and upon gas exposure. Cluster stability upon annealing up to 200 °C and upon CO exposure at least up to 1 × 10−6 mbar CO partial pressure is demonstrated. Moreover, the dimensions of the cobalt nanoclusters remain surprisingly small (<3 nm diameter) with a narrow size distribution. Density functional theory calculations demonstrate that the interplay between the low diffusion barrier on graphene on nickel and the strong anchoring effect of the nickel atoms leads to the increased stability and size selectivity of these clusters. This anchoring technique is expected to be applicable also to other cases, with clear advantages for transition metals that are usually difficult to stabilize.
Finite Elements with Switch Detection for direct optimal control of nonsmooth systems
Authors: Nurkanović Armin , Sperl Mario , Albrecht Sebastian , Diehl Moritz
Published: May 2024

This paper introduces Finite Elements with Switch Detection (FESD), a numerical discretization method for nonsmooth differential equations. We consider the Filippov convexification of these systems and a transformation into dynamic complementarity systems introduced by Stewart (Numer Math 58(1):299–328, 1990). FESD is based on solving nonlinear complementarity problems and can automatically detect nonsmooth events in time. If standard time-stepping Runge–Kutta (RK) methods are naively applied to a nonsmooth ODE, the accuracy is at best of order one. In FESD, we let the integrator step size be a degree of freedom. Additional complementarity conditions, which we callcross complementarities, enableexactswitch detection, hence FESD can recover the high order accuracy that the RK methods enjoy for smooth ODE. Additional conditions calledstep equilibrationallow the step size to change only when switches occur and thus avoid spurious degrees of freedom. Convergence results for the FESD method are derived, local uniqueness of the solution and convergence of numerical sensitivities are proven. The efficacy of FESD is demonstrated in several simulation and optimal control examples. In an optimal control problem benchmark with FESD, we achieve up to five orders of magnitude more accurate solutions than a standard time-stepping approach for the same computational time.
Solving partial differential equations using large-data models: a literature review
Authors: Hafiz Abdul Mueed , Faiq Irfan , Hassaballah M.
Published: May 2024

Mathematics lies at the heart of engineering science and is very important for capturing and modeling of diverse processes. These processes may be naturally-occurring or man-made. One important engineering problem in this regard is the modeling of advanced mathematical problems and their analysis. Partial differential equations (PDEs) are important and useful tools to this end. However, solving complex PDEs for advanced problems requires extensive computational resources and complex techniques. Neural networks provide a way to solve complex PDEs reliably. In this regard, large-data models are new generation of techniques, which have large dependency capturing capabilities. Hence, they can richly model and accurately solve such complex PDEs. Some common large-data models include Convolutional neural networks (CNNs) and their derivatives, transformers, etc. In this literature survey, the mathematical background is introduced. A gentle introduction to the area of solving PDEs using large-data models is given. Various state-of-the-art large-data models for solving PDEs are discussed. Also, the major issues and future scope of the area are identified. Through this literature survey, it is hoped that readers will gain an insight into the area of solving PDEs using large-data models and pursue future research in this interesting area.
Chitinases: expanding the boundaries of knowledge beyond routinized chitin degradation.
Authors: Unuofin John Onolame , Odeniyi Olubusola Ayoola , Majengbasan Omolara Sola , Igwaran Aboi , Moloantoa Karabelo MacMillan , Khetsha Zenzile Peter , Iwarere Samuel Ayodele , Daramola Michael Olawale
Published: May 2024

Chitinases, enzymes that degrade chitin, have long been studied for their role in various biological processes. They play crucial roles in the moulting process of invertebrates, the digestion of chitinous food, and defense against chitin-bearing pathogens. Additionally, chitinases are involved in physiological functions in crustaceans, such as chitinous food digestion, moulting, and stress response. Moreover, chitinases are universally distributed in organisms from viruses to mammals and have diverse functions including tissue degradation and remodeling, nutrition uptake, pathogen invasion, and immune response regulation. The discovery of these diverse functions expands our understanding of the biological significance and potential applications of chitinases. However, recent research has shown that chitinases possess several other functions beyond just chitin degradation. Their potential as biopesticides, therapeutic agents, and tools for bioremediation underscores their significance in addressing global challenges. More importantly, we noted that they may be applied as bioweapons if ethical regulations regarding production, engineering and application are overlooked.
Is Kyle’s equilibrium model stable?
Authors: Çetin Umut , Larsen Kasper
Published: May 2024

In the dynamic discrete-time trading setting of Kyle (Econometrica 53:1315–1336, 1985), we prove that Kyle’s equilibrium model is stable when there are one or two trading times. For three or more trading times, we prove that Kyle’s equilibrium is not stable. These theoretical results are proven to hold irrespectively of all Kyle’s input parameters.
Approximating optimal solutions to biconvex parametric programs
Authors: Pangia Andrew C.
Published: May 2024

Convex programming has been a research topic for a long time, both theoretically and algorithmically. Frequently, these programs lack complete data or contain rapidly shifting data. In response, we consider solving parametric programs, which allow for fast evaluation of the optimal solutions once the data is known. It has been established that, when the objective and constraint functions are convex in both variables and parameters, the optimal solutions can be estimated via linear interpolation. Many applications of parametric optimization violate the necessary convexity assumption. However, the linear interpolation is still useful; as such, we extend this interpolation to more general parametric programs in which the objective and constraint functions are biconvex. The resulting algorithm can be applied to scalarized multiobjective problems, which are inherently parametric, or be used in a gradient dual ascent method. We also provide two termination conditions and perform a numerical study on synthetic parametric biconvex optimization problems to compare their effectiveness.
Learning analytics and the future of postgraduate medical training
Authors: Shorten George
Published: May 2024

Confronted by the many barriers and deficiencies which currently face those responsible for the training of doctors, the concept of a logic model applied in real time may seem aspirational. However, several of the necessary of logic-based practices are already in place — these include quantified training effect and performance, learning analytics, and applied reflective practice. A nationally or internationally co-ordinated effort is required to harness these disciplines (which currently exist disparately) to create a sustainable and effective training system which is adaptive to its own performance and to society’s changing needs. This will mean making better use of the data currently being generated by and around training, and its presentation in a timely and comprehensible form to the person(s) who is responsible, prepared, and able to use it to best effect.
Molecular characterization, clinical value, and cancer–immune interactions of genes related to disulfidptosis and ferroptosis in colorectal cancer
Authors: Liu Xianqiang , Li Dingchang , Gao Wenxing , Chen Peng , Liu Hao , Zhao Yingjie , Zhao Wen , Dong Guanglong
Published: May 2024

Background

This research strived to construct a new signature utilizing disulfidptosis-related ferroptosis (SRF) genes to anticipate response to immunotherapy, prognosis, and drug sensitivity in individuals with colorectal cancer (CRC).

Methods

The data for RNA sequencing as well as corresponding clinical information of individuals with CRC, were extracted from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) dataset. SRF were constructed with the help of the random forest (RF), least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO), and stepwise regression algorithms. To validate the SRF model, we applied it to an external cohort, GSE38832. Prognosis, immunotherapy response, drug sensitivity, molecular functions of genes, and somatic mutations of genes were compared across the high- and low-risk groups (categories). Following this, all statistical analyses were conducted with the aid of the R (version 4.23) software and various packages of the Cytoscape (version 3.8.0) tool.

Results

SRF was developed based on five genes (ATG7, USP7, MMD, PLIN4, and THDC2). Both univariate and multivariate Cox regression analyses established SRF as an independent, prognosis-related risk factor. Individuals from the high-risk category had a more unfavorable prognosis, elevated tumor mutational burden (TMB), and significant immunosuppressive status. Hence, they might have better outcomes post-immunotherapy and might benefit from the administration of pazopanib, lapatinib, and sunitinib.

Conclusion

In conclusion, SRF can act as a new biomarker for prognosis assessment. Moreover, it is also a good predictor of drug sensitivity and immunotherapy response in CRC but should undergo optimization before implementation in clinical settings.
Super-resolution reconstruction of single image for latent features
Authors: Wang Xin , Yan Jing-Ke , Cai Jing-Ye , Deng Jian-Hua , Qin Qin , Cheng Yao
Published: May 2024

Single-image super-resolution (SISR) typically focuses on restoring various degraded low-resolution (LR) images to a single high-resolution (HR) image. However, during SISR tasks, it is often challenging for models to simultaneously maintain high quality and rapid sampling while preserving diversity in details and texture features. This challenge can lead to issues such as model collapse, lack of rich details and texture features in the reconstructed HR images, and excessive time consumption for model sampling. To address these problems, this paper proposes a Latent Feature-oriented Diffusion Probability Model (LDDPM). First, we designed a conditional encoder capable of effectively encoding LR images, reducing the solution space for model image reconstruction and thereby improving the quality of the reconstructed images. We then employed a normalized flow and multimodal adversarial training, learning from complex multimodal distributions, to model the denoising distribution. Doing so boosts the generative modeling capabilities within a minimal number of sampling steps. Experimental comparisons of our proposed model with existing SISR methods on mainstream datasets demonstrate that our model reconstructs more realistic HR images and achieves better performance on multiple evaluation metrics, providing a fresh perspective for tackling SISR tasks.
Lactobacillus acidophilus VB1 co-aggregates and inhibits biofilm formation of chronic otitis media-associated pathogens
Authors: Algburi Ammar R. , Jassim Shireen M. , Popov Igor V. , Weeks Richard , Chikindas Michael L.
Published: May 2024

This study aims to evaluate the antibacterial activity of Lactobacillus acidophilus, alone and in combination with ciprofloxacin, against otitis media-associated bacteria. L. acidophilus cells were isolated from Vitalactic B (VB), a commercially available probiotic product containing two lactobacilli species, L. acidophilus and Lactiplantibacillus (formerly Lactobacillus) plantarum. The pathogenic bacterial samples were provided by Al-Shams Medical Laboratory (Baqubah, Iraq). Bacterial identification and antibiotic susceptibility testing for 16 antibiotics were performed using the VITEK2 system. The minimum inhibitory concentration of ciprofloxacin was also determined. The antimicrobial activity of L. acidophilus VB1 cell-free supernatant (La-CFS) was evaluated alone and in combination with ciprofloxacin using a checkerboard assay. Our data showed significant differences in the synergistic activity when La-CFS was combined with ciprofloxacin, in comparison to the use of each compound alone, against Pseudomonas aeruginosa SM17 and Proteus mirabilis SM42. However, an antagonistic effect was observed for the combination against Staphylococcus aureus SM23 and Klebsiella pneumoniae SM9. L. acidophilus VB1 was shown to significantly co-aggregate with the pathogenic bacteria, and the highest co-aggregation percentage was observed after 24 h of incubation. The anti-biofilm activities of CFS and biosurfactant (BS) of L. acidophilus VB1 were evaluated, and we found that the minimum biofilm inhibitory concentration that inhibits 50% of bacterial biofilm (MBIC50) of La-CFS was significantly lower than MBIC50 of La-BS against the tested pathogenic bacterial species. Lactobacillus acidophilus, isolated from Vitane Vitalactic B capsules, demonstrated promising antibacterial and anti-biofilm activities against otitis media pathogens, highlighting its potential as an effective complementary/alternative therapeutic strategy to control bacterial ear infections.
The IMP research on business networks: a systematic literature review and research agenda
Authors: Guercini Simone , La Rocca Antonella , Perna Andrea
Published: May 2024

More than 40 years of Industrial Marketing and Purchasing (IMP) research have revealed that in b2b markets, business exchange is carried out in continuous buyer–seller relationships. This involves direct and indirect interaction and dynamics resulting in significant related social and material investments and in extensive interdependencies that confer on the business landscape a market-as-network structure. Since the introduction of this ideas, research on business networks has been richly alimented by researchers of the IMP community. Yet, we do not have a clear overview of what this literature has covered in the last twenty years (in the period 2002–2022), in parallel with the many changes that have affected business landscape. With this study, we aim to examine what is the status of the last 20 years of IMP literature specifically dealing with the business networks level of analysis (45 articles) and to offer key directions for imminent research in this domain while analyzing and synthesizing extant literature.