bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Turning 30 and myopic? Temporal orientation and the firm lifecycle
Authors: Lefebvre Vivien
Published: August 2023

A vast body of literature shows that large, publicly listed firms suffer from managerial short‐termism and inadequate temporal orientation. We study the temporal orientations, measured as the investment horizons, of firms throughout their lifecycles. We build on theoretical arguments from organizational learning theory and agency theory to argue that the relationship between firm age and the investment horizon is quadratic, with an inverted U shape. Using a large sample of publicly listed and privately held European firms, we obtain results consistent with this prediction. Our results support the idea that younger firms gradually learn to use more sophisticated investment decision criteria, thus resulting in longer investment horizons. However, this effect is bounded by changes in governance structure, such as the separation of ownership from control that results from the transition from an owner‐managed status to a professionally managed status. Implications for future research and practice are discussed.
Intelligent flexible manipulator system based on flexible tactile sensing (IFMSFTS) for kiwifruit ripeness classification
Authors: Qin Leqin , Zhang Junchang , Stevan Stankovski , Xing Shaohua , Zhang Xiaoshuan
Published: August 2023

BACKGROUND

Consumers all throughout the world enjoy kiwifruit. After harvest, there are as much as 20–25% of kiwifruit lost along the entire industrial chain. An intelligent flexible manipulator system based on flexible tactile sensing (IFMSFTS) was created to automatically and intelligently classify kiwifruit ripeness in order to minimize loss.

RESULT

The flexible manipulator is coupled with the flexible tactile sensor. When kiwifruits are being gripped by the manipulator, the flexible sensor perceives their firmness, and the mapping relationship between firmness and ripeness allows for the prediction and evaluation of the kiwifruit's ripeness. Principal component analysis (PCA) is employed to minimize the dimension of the sample firmness data set. K‐Nearest neighbor (KNN) and support vector machine (SVM) classifiers are utilized to train and test the data. The findings indicate that PCA‐KNN's classification accuracy is 97.5% and PCA‐SVM's classification accuracy is 96.24%. The first is a better fit.

CONCLUSION

IFMSFTS can precisely classify ripeness, effectively address the issue of fruit loss, and realize the sustainable and clean production of fruit by sensing the firmness of kiwifruit and relying on the mapping link between firmness and ripeness. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Variations in chemical composition of common buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum Moench) as a result of different environmental conditions
Authors: Wiśniewska Magdalena , Mańkowski Dariusz R. , Fraś Anna
Published: August 2023

BACKGROUND

Common buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum Moench) is a pseudo cereal that is gaining interest in the world. The chemical profile of common buckwheat determines its high nutritional and health‐promoting value. The accumulation of these valuable ingredients depends on many factors, such as: variety, location of cultivation and related weather and agrotechnical conditions. Due to the growing interest in common buckwheat as a natural plant material for food production, it is important to know the factors affecting the quantitative and qualitative composition of its grains. The aim of the research was to determine the effect of the genotype (G), environment (E) and G × E interaction on the content of nutrients (protein, starch, ash, lipids) and bioactive components [dietary fiber (DF), total phenolic content (TPC)] in the common buckwheat grains. The study covered four cultivars grown in three locations for three consecutive vegetation seasons (2016/2017, 2017/2018, 2018/2019).

RESULTS

Based on the obtained results, a significant influence of the environment and G × E interaction on the content of the studied parameters was found. The greatest impact on the diversity of the content of nutrients had environmental conditions, which in the case of protein and ash determined these features in more than 80%, and in the case of starch, 70%. With regard to bioactive compounds, the greatest influence of the environment was observed for the amount of TPC (78%), lignin (51%) and the DF complex (56%).

CONCLUSION

The obtained results are useful for breeders working on expanding the pool of common buckwheat genotypes, stable in changing environmental conditions. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Implementing Point‐of‐Care Ultrasound for Acute Scrotal Pain in the Pediatric Emergency Department
Authors: Park Jun Sung , Kim Dahyun , Chun Min Kyo , Choi Seung Jun , Lee Jong Seung , Ryu Jeong‐Min , Lee Jeong‐Yong
Published: August 2023

Objectives

Testicular torsion (TT) is a pediatric surgical emergency that requires prompt treatment. This study investigated the feasibility of point‐of‐care ultrasound (POCUS) for diagnosing TT in the pediatric emergency department (ED).

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of patients, aged 18 years or younger, who visited a university‐affiliated hospital pediatric ED with acute scrotal pain without trauma history and underwent diagnostic ultrasounds between January 2010 and October 2022.

Results

This study included 731 patients (median age: 9 years), Of these, 315 (43%) were in the POCUS‐performed group: 188 in the POCUS‐only group, and 127 in the POCUS‐and‐RADUS group. The other 416 patients (56.9%) were in the RADUS‐only group. In total, 45 patients (6.2%) were diagnosed with TT (19 in the POCUS‐performed group and 26 in the RADUS‐only group). The sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values of POCUS for diagnosing TT were 94.7%, 92.9%, 46.2%, and 99.6%, respectively. The median time to perform POCUS was shorter than RADUS (23 versus 61 minutes,P < .001). The POCUS‐performed group had a shorter ED length of stay than the RADUS‐only group (93 versus 170 minutes,P < .001). Among the patients diagnosed with TT, performing POCUS first did not significantly delay the ED process, including time to operation (250 versus 205 minutes,P = .142).

Conclusions

For patients with acute scrotal pain, evaluation performed by pediatric emergency physicians using POCUS performs well in screening TT, and can decrease length of stay in the ED.
Real‐time laser speckle contrast imaging measurement during normothermic machine perfusion in pretransplant kidney assessment
Authors: Fang Yitian , van Ooijen Lisanne , Ambagtsheer Gisela , Nikolaev Anton V. , Clahsen‐van Groningen Marian C. , Dankelman Jenny , de Bruin Ron W. F. , Minnee Robert C.
Published: August 2023

Objectives

Normothermic machine perfusion (NMP) provides a platform for pre‐transplant kidney quality assessment that is essential for the use of marginal donor kidneys. Laser speckle contrast imaging (LSCI) presents distinct advantages as a real‐time and noncontact imaging technique for measuring microcirculation. In this study, we aimed to assess the value of LSCI in visualizing renal cortical perfusion and investigate the additional value of dual‐side LSCI measurements compared to single aspect measurement during NMP.

Methods

Porcine kidneys were obtained from a slaughterhouse and then underwent NMP. LSCI was used to measure one‐sided cortical perfusion in the first 100 min of NMP. Thereafter, the inferior renal artery branch was occluded to induce partial ischemia and LSCI measurements on both ventral and dorsal sides were performed.

Results

LSCI fluxes correlated linearly with the renal blood flow (R2 = 0.90, p < 0.001). After renal artery branch occlusion, absence of renal cortical perfusion could be visualized and semiquantified by LSCI. The overall ischemic area percentage of the ventral and dorsal sides was comparable (median interquartile range [IQR], 38 [24−43]% vs. 29 [17−46]%, p = 0.43), but heterogenous patterns between the two aspects were observed. There was a significant difference in oxygen consumption (mean ± standard deviation [SD], 2.57 ± 0.63 vs. 1.83 ± 0.49 mLO2/min/100 g, p < 0.001), urine output (median [IQR], 1.3 [1.1−1.7] vs. 0.8 [0.6−1.3] mL/min, p < 0.05), lactate dehydrogenase (mean ± SD, 768 ± 370 vs. 905 ± 401 U/L, p < 0.05) and AST (mean ± SD, 352 ± 285 vs. 462 ± 383 U/L, p < 0.01) before and after renal artery occlusion, while no significant difference was found in creatinine clearance, fractional excretion of sodium, total sodium reabsorption and histological damage.

Conclusions

LSCI fluxes correlated linearly with renal blood flow during NMP. Renal cortical microcirculation and absent perfusion can be visualized and semiquantified by LSCI. It provides a relative understanding of perfusion levels, allowing for a qualitative comparison between regions in the kidney. Dual‐side LSCI measurements are of added value compared to single aspect measurement and renal function markers.
Synthesis and Characterization of Conjugated Polymers Based on Thieno[3,4‐b]Thiophene Quinoidal Unit
Authors: Shao Bo , He Yu , Wang Tianzuo , Yan Dongsheng , Yuan Yaofeng , Du Tian , Chi Chunyan , Deng Yunfeng , Geng Yanhou
Published: August 2023

Driven by the success of quinoidal units for enabling high‐performance polymer semiconductors, herein a new quinoidal building block that terminated by indandione is reported. By introducing Br atoms into the terminal benzene rings of indandione, two CPs, P2TbTI‐DPP and P2TbTI‐TIID, are synthesized through Stille polycondensation. The strong electron‐withdrawing ability of indandione‐terminated quinoidal unit enables P2TbTI‐DPP and P2TbTI‐TIID with low‐lying LUMO energy levels of ≈–3.90 eV. Organic thin‐film transistors based on P2TbTI‐DPP and P2TbTI‐TIID exhibit n‐type transport behavior. Besides, it is found that the electron mobility of these two polymers is weakly dependent on the annealing temperature due to the near‐amorphous of polymer thin‐film.
Inhibition of the dorsomedial striatal direct pathway is essential for the execution of action sequences
Authors: Kono Anna , Shikano Yu , Tanaka Kenji F. , Yamaura Katsunori , Tsutsui‐Kimura Iku
Published: August 2023

Contrary to the previous notion that the dorsomedial striatum (DMS) is crucial for acquiring new learning, accumulated evidence has suggested that the DMS also plays a role in the execution of already learned action sequences. Here, we examined how the direct and indirect pathways in the DMS regulate action sequences using a task that requires animals to press a lever consecutively. Cell‐type‐specific bulk Ca2+ recording revealed that the direct pathway was inhibited at the time of sequence execution. The sequence‐related response was blunted in trials where the sequential behaviors were disrupted. Optogenetic activation at the sequence start caused distraction of action sequences without affecting motor function or memory of the task structure. By contrast with the direct pathway, the indirect pathway was slightly activated at the start of the sequence, but the optogenetic suppression of such sequence‐related signaling did not impact the behaviors. These results suggest that the inhibition of the DMS direct pathway promotes sequence execution potentially by suppressing the formation of a new association.
Surgical Management and Outcomes of Pediatric Congenital Head and Neck Teratomas: A Scoping Review
Authors: Patel Siddharth , Kunnath Ansley J. , Gallant Jean‐Nicolas , Belcher Ryan H.
Published: August 2023

Objective

To perform a scoping review to characterize postoperative outcomes of pediatric patients (ages 0‐18) with a history of congenital head and neck teratomas.

Data Sources

PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, Cochrane, Clinicaltrails.gov.

Review Methods

A search of multiple databases was performed. Studies were included if they detailed the surgical management and outcomes of pediatric patients with a history of congenital head and neck teratomas.

Results

One hundred and eight studies totaling 137 patients were identified. The median gestational age at birth was 37 weeks. Respiratory distress, prompting emergent endotracheal intubation or tracheostomy, was present in most patients (58%). The ex utero intrapartum treatment (EXIT) procedure was utilized for 21 (15%) patients. The teratomas were resected after a median duration of 4 days from birth. The most common postsurgical complications were vocal cord paralysis (3%), hemorrhage (2%), and tracheomalacia (2%). Death occurred perioperatively in 2 patients (2%). Twenty‐six patients (19%) required additional surgery, and 5 patients (4%) needed adjuvant chemotherapy. Patients were monitored for a median duration of 24 months with a recurrence rate of 6%. Four recurrent cases (50%) had intracranial extension, and 88% of the recurrent cases were mature teratomas at initial histopathological diagnosis.

Conclusion

Most patients with congenital head and neck teratomas require emergent airway management perinatally. Excisional and surgical complications are rare, and most patients are cured of their disease with a single operation. Recurrent teratomas tend to have an intracranial extension and are likely to be of mature pathology at the time of initial diagnosis.
Head and Neck Necrotizing Fasciitis: Abbreviated SOFA Score Associated With Death and Infection Spread
Authors: Vittetoe Kelly L. , Johnson Samuel R. , Benvenuti Teresa A. , Schoenecker Jonathan G. , Moore‐Lotridge Stephanie N. , Rohde Sarah L.
Published: August 2023

Objective

Describe features unique to head and neck (H&N) necrotizing fasciitis (NF) compared to other anatomic regions and specify a prognostic score associated with death and descending necrotizing mediastinitis (DNM).

Study Design

Retrospective cohort.

Setting

Tertiary care, level 1 trauma center.

Methods

A single‐institution database identified 399 confirmed cases of NF between 2006 and 2021, 33 of which involved the H&N. Patients with confirmed H&N NF were sorted into cohorts based on clinical outcomes, with the “poor” outcomes group defined by death and/or DNM.

Results

Thirty‐three patients with H&N NF were included. Compared to NF of other regions, patients with H&N NF had a significantly lower mortality rate (6.06% vs 20.8%, p = .041) and significantly lower rates of obesity (27.3% vs 63.7%, p < .001) and hypertension (42.4% vs 60.9%, p = .038). Within the H&N group, there were 2 deaths (6.06%) and 8 cases of DNM (24.2%). Diabetes was associated with poor outcomes (p = .047), as was an abbreviated sequential organ failure assessment score for necrotizing fasciitis (nfSOFA) of 2 or greater (p = .015).

Conclusion

H&N NF is unique among other forms of NF, with a lower mortality rate and lower rates of obesity and hypertension in affected patients. Within the H&N cohort, worse outcomes were associated with diabetes as well as a nfSOFA score of 2 or greater. Timely surgical debridement alongside broad‐spectrum antibiotics remains the mainstay of treatment for NF; however, this simple prognostic score may play a role during the early stages of care for patients with H&N NF.
Intravascular hemolysis triggers NAFLD characterized by a deregulation of lipid metabolism and lipophagy blockade
Authors: Rayego‐Mateos Sandra , Morgado‐Pascual José Luis , García‐Caballero Cristina , Lazaro Iolanda , Sala‐Vila Aleix , Opazo‐Rios Lucas , Mas‐Fontao Sebastian , Egido Jesús , Ruiz‐Ortega Marta , Moreno Juan Antonio
Published: August 2023

Intravascular hemolysis is a common feature of different clinical entities, including sickle cell disease and malaria. Chronic hemolytic disorders are associated with hepatic damage; however, it is unknown whether heme disturbs lipid metabolism and promotes liver steatosis, thereby favoring the progression to nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Using an experimental model of acute intravascular hemolysis, we report here the presence of liver injury in association with microvesicular lipid droplet deposition. Hemolysis promoted serum hyperlipidemia and altered intrahepatic triglyceride fatty acid composition, with increments in oleic, palmitoleic, and palmitic acids. These findings were related to augmented expression of transporters involved in fatty acid uptake (CD36 and MSR1) and deregulation of LDL transport, as demonstrated by decreased levels of LDL receptor and increased PCSK9 expression. Hemolysis also upregulated hepatic enzymes associated with cholesterol biosynthesis (SREBP2, HMGC1, LCAT, SOAT1) and transcription factors regulating lipid metabolism (SREBP1). Increased LC3II/LC3I ratio and p62/SQSTM1 protein levels were reported in mice with intravascular hemolysis and hepatocytes stimulated with heme, indicating a blockade of lipophagy. In cultured hepatocytes, cell pretreatment with the autophagy inductor rapamycin diminished heme‐mediated toxicity and accumulation of lipid droplets. In conclusion, intravascular hemolysis enhances liver damage by exacerbating lipid accumulation and blocking the lipophagy pathway, thereby promoting NAFLD. These new findings have a high translational potential as a novel NAFLD‐promoting mechanism in individuals suffering from severe hemolysis episodes. © 2023 The Authors. The Journal of Pathology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of The Pathological Society of Great Britain and Ireland.
Multi‐institutional assessment of the prevalence of neuroendocrine tumors in children undergoing laparoscopic appendectomy for acute appendicitis in the United States
Authors: Zeineddin Suhail , Aldrink Jennifer H. , Bering Jakob , Hoyt David W. , Kastenberg Zachary J. , Brungardt Joseph , Dasgupta Roshni , Rinehardt Hannah N. , Malek Marcus M. , Ziogas Ioannis A. , Roach Jonathan P. , Craig Brian T. , Rothstein David H. , Lautz Timothy B.
Published: August 2023

As non‐operative management of acute appendicitis in children has become more common, missed incidental appendiceal pathology can be an unintended consequence. We assessed the prevalence of neuroendocrine tumors in appendectomy specimens from eight US children's hospitals from 2012 to 2021. The prevalence of neuroendocrine tumors (NET) was found to be 1:271, with a median age of 14 years and 62% female. Most tumors were small (median 6 mm; interquartile range [IQR]: 3–10), and no recurrence was noted during the follow‐up period (median 22.5 months; IQR: 3–53). The possibility of delayed diagnosis of these tumors should be part of the discussion for non‐operative management of pediatric acute appendicitis.
TLC and HPTLC‐APCI‐MS for the rapid discrimination of plant resins frequently used for lacquers and varnishes by artists and conservators
Authors: Schendzielorz Marcel , Schmidt Theresa , Puchalla Nils , Csuk René , Kramell Annemarie E.
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Depending on their terpenoid and phenolic constituents plant resins can be classified as diterpenoid, triterpenoid or phenolic resins; thereby the profile of diterpenes and triterpenes is considered as genus‐ or even species‐specific.

Objectives

We aimed to develop a simple, rapid, inexpensive, sensitive and specific method for the identification of resin‐specific triterpenoid and phenolic compounds in plant resins using (HP)TLC [(high‐performance) thin‐layer chromatography] combined with APCI‐MS (atmospheric pressure chemical ionisation mass spectrometry) and post‐chromatographic detection reactions.

Methods

Twenty resin samples from different plant species were analysed. Different extraction procedures, post‐chromatographic detection reagents as well as various sorbents and solvents for planar chromatography were tested. To evaluate the potential of the optimised (HP)TLC‐APCI‐MS methods, parameter such as limit of detection (LOD) was determined for selected marker compounds.

Results

Our protocol enabled qualitative analyses of chemotaxonomic molecular markers in natural resins such as dammar, mastic, olibanum and benzoin. For the first time, the application of thionyl chloride‐stannic chloride reagent for a specific post‐chromatographic detection of triterpenes is reported, sometimes even allowing discrimination between isomers based on their characteristic colour sequences. For triterpene acids, triterpene alcohols and phenolic compounds, detection limits of 2–20 ng/TLC zone and a system precision with a relative standard deviation (RSD) in the range of 3.9%–7.0% were achieved by (HP)TLC‐APCI‐MS. The applicability of the method for the analysis of resin‐based varnishes was successfully tested on a mastic‐based varnish. Thus, the method we propose is a helpful tool for the discrimination of resins and resin‐based varnishes with respect to their botanical origin.
Assessing cognitive and executive function in childhood absence epilepsy
Authors: Salama Samy , Saadallah Horeya , Hamed Mervat , El Wafa Heba Abou , lhab Reda M.
Published: August 2023

Although cognitive impairment is one of the common problems among many patients with epilepsy, it is still not well defined in childhood absence epilepsy. Here, the authors assess the cognitive and executive function in childhood absence epilepsy in a group of school‐age children in Egypt. They discuss the need for early identification of neuropsychological dysfunction so that appropriate management can be implemented.
Cortical blindness: diagnostic issues in sudden bilateral visual loss
Authors: Iqbal Roshan , Das Saugata
Published: August 2023

Cortical blindness is defined as bilateral visual loss due to disruption of the visual pathways beyond the lateral geniculate body. Visual disturbance as a result of cortical lesion can manifest in different ways. Anton's syndrome is one of the manifestations of cortical blindness, which presents as denial of loss of vision associated with confabulation in the setting of obvious visual loss. This case illustrates the challenges of diagnosing cortical blindness in the emergency setting.
Plasma degradation of water organic pollutants: Ab initio molecular dynamics simulations and experiments
Authors: Brault Pascal , Bilea Florin , Magureanu Monica , Bradu Corina , Aubry Olivier , Rabat Hervé , Hong Dunpin
Published: August 2023

Ab initio molecular dynamics simulations and experiments were carried out to study the interaction between plasma‐produced hydroxyl radicals and organic pollutant molecules in wastewater. The simulation method was validated on the degradation products of phenol and further applied to the more complex molecule of sulfamethoxazole (SMX). The comparison with experimentally detected intermediate products obtained during plasma treatment of SMX solutions confirms the hydroxylation of the benzene and isoxazole rings observed in some of the simulations.
Distinct soil health indicators are associated with variation in maize yield and tile drain nitrate losses
Authors: Li Nan , Bullock David , Butts‐Wilmsmeyer Carrie , Gentry Laura , Goodwin Greg , Han Jaeyeong , Kleczweski Nathan , Martín Nicolas F. , Paulausky Patricia , Pistorius Pete , Seiter Nicholas , Schroeder Nathan , Margenot Andrew J.
Published: August 2023

Associations between nitrogen (N) management and losses with soil health indicators (SHI) are widely presumed but relatively untested. An on‐farm experiment conducted in central Illinois was conducted to test potential relationships of SHI with agroecosystem outcomes of maize (Zea mays L.) yield and N losses under bounding N‐fertilization rates of 168 and 252 kg/ha. Chemical (n = 19), physical (n = 11), and biological (n = 14) SHI were measured at 24 locations within a 30 ha field at five timepoints (V3, V10, RT, R6, and post‐harvest). Yields did not necessarily reflect N‐fertilization rates, with lowest yields (14.5 Mg/ha) under 224 kg/ha. Flow‐weighted nitrate‐N concentrations were significantly higher under 168 kg N/ha (10.6 mg/L) relative to higher application rates, though cumulative tile nitrate‐N loads were similar. SHI varied more by sampling location and time than by N fertilization rate. Depending on the time of sampling, distinct SHI were related to yield and tile N losses. Total soil carbon and permanganate oxidizable carbon (POXC) best explained yield variation, whereas POXC and sand content best explained variation in nitrate‐N loss. Nematode indices helped explain variability in yield (Simpson and Shannon indices) and nitrate‐N losses (maturity index), supporting recent propositions to integrate nematode measures into soil health assessments. This study provides a basis for expanding to multiyear assessments of SHI linkages with nutrient losses and crop productivity in the North Central United States.
Bridging a Gap in Thermal Conductivity and Heat Transfer in Hybrid Fibers and Yarns via Polyimide and Silicon Nitride Composites
Authors: Moradi Ahmadreza , Szewczyk Piotr K. , Stachewicz Urszula
Published: August 2023

The pressing issues of the energy crisis and rapid electronics development have sparked a growing interest in the production of highly thermally conductive polymer composites. Due to the challenges related to the poor processability of hybrid materials and filler distribution to achieve high thermal conductivity, electrospinning is employed to create composite nanofibers and yarns using polyimide (PI) and thermally conductive silicon nitride (SiN) nanoparticles. The thermal performance of the individual nanofibers is evaluated using scanning thermal microscopy (SThM), providing significant insights into their heat transfer performance. Next, the nanofibers are applied as coatings on resistance wires to assess the thermal conductivity and insulation properties. Notably, the samples containing 35 wt.% of SiN exhibit a 25% increase in surface temperature. These innovative materials hold great promise as exceptional candidates for smart textiles and thermal management applications, addressing the growing demand for effective heat dissipation and regulation.
Tensile‐Strained Holey Pd Metallene toward Efficient and Stable Electrocatalysis
Authors: Zeng Tiantian , Meng Xiaomin , Sun Shiwei , Ling Miao , Zhang Chuanhui , Yuan Weiyong , Cao Dapeng , Niu Mang , Zhang Lian Ying , Li Chang Ming
Published: August 2023

Noble metal‐based metallenes are attracting intensive attention in energy catalysis, but it is still very challenging to precisely control the surface structures of metallenes for higher catalytic properties on account of their intrinsic thermodynamic instability. Herein, the synthesis of tensile‐strained holey Pd metallene by oxidative etching is reported using hydrogen peroxide, which exhibits highly enhanced catalytic activity and stability in comparison with normal Pd metallene toward both oxygen reduction reaction and formic acid oxidation. The pre‐prepared Pd metallene functions as a catalyst to decompose hydrogen peroxide, and the Pd atoms in amorphous regions of Pd metallene are preferentially removed by the introduced hydrogen peroxide during the etching process. The greatly enhanced ORR activity is mainly determined by the strong electrostatic repulsion between intermediate O* and the dopant O, which balances the adsorption strength of O* on Pd sites, ultimately endowing a weakened adsorption energy of O* on TH‐Pd metallene. This work creates a facile and economical strategy to precisely shape metallene‐based nanoarchitectures with broad applications for energy systems and sensing devices.
Obtaining and Microstructural Study of a Multifunctional Highly Phosphorylated Starch
Authors: Azeroual Sana , Belfkira Ahmed , Wattati Hind , Taourirte Moha , Jalal Rachid
Published: August 2023

This study reports the phosphorylation of starch by a method used for kraft fibers. Energy dispersive X‐ray (EDX) analysis shows that this product contains 20% phosphorus and 9% nitrogen. The corresponding degrees of substitution (DS), on the anhydroglucose repeating unit (AGU), by phosphorus‐containing (DSP) and nitrogen‐containing (DSN) groups are 2.32 and 1.38, respectively. The microstructural characterization techniques (13C and 31P NMR, ATR‐FTIR), indicate the existence of several functional groups simply linked or acting as bridges between the chains. The degree of charge (4446 mmol kg−1), determined by potentiometry, is lower than that calculated theoretically (6617 mmol kg−1). This is due to a transformation of the phosphate groups (─O─PO3H2) into (─O─PO3H─) forming inter‐chain bridges. The viscosimetric increment varies very little with concentration, indicating that the study is dealing with particles made up of highly cross‐linked polysaccharide chains, whose hydrodynamic volume expansion is strongly restricted. The thermogravimetric study, mass loss as a function of temperature, generates levoglucosan as the majority product. It indicates the persistence of AGU despite modification reactions. By pooling all the data, the study is able to propose an approximate microstructure. Application tests for fertilizer, adsorbent, flame retardant, water retainer, and gelling agent are conclusive.
Anchorages and laps according to the next‐generation Eurocode 2—Overview and comparison to current provisions
Authors: Camps Benjamin , Schmidt Maximilian , Hegger Josef
Published: August 2023

New design provisions for anchorage and lap design, based on Model Code 2010 and the related background document, have been proposed for the next generation of Eurocode 2 (prEC2). In this article, the new provisions are examined and compared with the provisions in current Eurocode 2 (EC2). In the first of the three parts of this study, design examples are developed to show the practicability and effectiveness of the new design provisions. In the second part, parametric studies are carried out to check the generality of the new provisions and to clarify the roles of the main input parameters controlling the design of anchorages and laps. In the third part, a comparison is made between the predictions based on the new provisions and the results of a large database reported in the literature. To improve the fitting of the test results, adjustments are proposed for the coefficients appearing in the provisions of prEC2. The proposed adjustments—that may be introduced into National Annexes—ensure a sufficient level of safety of the new provisions for the design of anchorages and laps.
Preface to the Special Issue on Fluorine Chemistry
Authors: Shibata Norio , Talwar Dinesh
Published: August 2023

The unique properties and applications of fluorine‐containing molecules have undoubtedly had a profound impact in various scientific fields, ranging from small (refrigerants) to medium (drugs and materials) to large molecules (polymers). This special issue highlights the state of the art in fluorine chemistry.
Polystyrene nanoplastics aggravate reproductive system damage in obese male mice by perturbation of the testis redox homeostasis
Authors: Cai Peirong , Wang Yaling , Feng Nannan , Zou Hui , Gu Jianhong , Yuan Yan , Liu Xuezhong , Liu Zongping , Bian Jianchun
Published: August 2023

The potential impact of the combination of a high‐fat diet (HFD) and polystyrene nanoplastics (PS‐NPs) on fertility cannot be ignored, especially when the fertility rate is declining. However, it has not attracted considerable attention. In this study, an obese mouse model was established using an HFD, and the reproductive function of male mice was evaluated after intragastric administration of 100 μL of a 10 mg/mL PS‐NP suspension for 4 weeks. By determining the morphology and vitality of sperm and related indicators of testosterone production, it was found that PS‐NPs aggravated the destruction of sperm mitochondrial structure, decrease sperm activity, and testosterone production in HFD‐fed mice. To comprehensively analyze the injury mechanism, the integrity of the blood testicular barrier (BTB) and the function of Leydig and Sertoli cells were further analyzed. It was found that PS‐NPs could destroy BTB, promote the degeneration of Leydig cells, reduce the number of Sertoli cells, and decrease lactate secretion in HFD‐fed mice. PS‐NPs further interfered with redox homeostasis in the testicular tissues of HFD‐fed mice. This study found that PS‐NPs could aggravate the damage to the reproductive system of obese male mice by further perturbing its redox homeostasis and revealed the potential health risk of PS‐NPs exposure under an HFD.
Impact of proton pump inhibitors on the risk of small bowel or colorectal bleeding: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Jung Yoon Suk , Park Jung Ho , Park Chan Hyuk
Published: August 2023

Background

Several studies have suggested that the mucosal protective effects of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) do not extend beyond the duodenum; however, PPIs may cause lower gastrointestinal (LGI) injury, although these relationships have not yet been fully elucidated.

Methods

We searched all the relevant studies published until September 2022 that examined the risk of PPIs for LGI bleeding. We performed a meta‐analysis of the risk of LGI bleeding (small bowel (SB) or colorectal bleeding) between PPI users and non‐users. A subgroup analysis of patients consuming aspirin or nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) was also performed.

Results

Twelve studies with 341,063 participants were included in this meta‐analysis. The use of PPIs was associated with the risk of LGI bleeding (odds ratio [OR] [95% confidence interval [CI]] = 1.42 [1.16–1.73]; hazard ratio [HR] [95% CI] = 3.23 [1.56–6.71]). An association between PPI use and the risk of LGI bleeding was also identified in the subgroup of aspirin or NSAID users (OR [95% CI] = 1.64 [1.49–1.80]; HR [95% CI] = 6.55 [2.01–21.33]). In the bleeding site‐specific analyses, the risk of SB bleeding was associated with PPI use (OR [95% CI] = 1.54 [1.30–1.84]).

Conclusions

PPI use was associated with an increased risk of LGI bleeding, particularly SB bleeding. This association was particularly pronounced among aspirin and NSAID users. Inappropriate PPI prescriptions should be avoided in patients with LGI bleeding and a low risk of upper gastrointestinal disease.
Detection and molecular characterisation of canine adenovirus type 1 from a fatal case of infectious canine hepatitis from India
Authors: Syamily Shaji , Rajasekhar R , Anoopraj R , Ravishankar Chintu , Jishnu Haridas Piriyath
Published: August 2023

Canine adenovirus (CAdV), a non‐enveloped, linear dsDNA virus, is a member of the genus Mastadenovirus of the family Adenoviridae. Two different serotypes of CAdVs, canine adenovirus type 1 (CAdV‐1), which causes infectious canine hepatitis (ICH), and canine adenovirus type 2 (CAdV‐2), which causes canine infectious laryngotracheitis, have been identified in dogs. In this report, we discuss a case of fatal CAdV‐1 infection in a 4‐month‐old, male, unvaccinated, Rajapalayam breed dog. Postmortem examination results were suggestive of CAdV‐1 infection, which was confirmed by histopathological examination, molecular characterisation and phylogenetic analysis. Sequence analysis of the CAdV‐1 strain showed a close similarity with the Australasian‐Europe cluster, a high identity (99.78% nucleotide and 98.91% amino acid identities) with a CAdV‐1 isolate (KU75571) from a fox in the United Kingdom, and a unique substitution (W126S) in the E3 protein encoding sequence.
The geology, geochemistry, and magmatic evolution of the Legris Lake mafic–ultramafic complex, Ontario, Canada
Authors: Bain Wyatt M. , Hollings Pete , Djon Lionnel M. , Brzozowski Matthew J. , Layton-Matthews Daniel , Dobosz Agatha
Published: August 2023

The Archean Legris Lake mafic–ultramafic complex (LLC) is spatially (~ 12 km east) and temporally (2690.59 ± 0.77 Ma) associated with the world-class Lac des Iles (LDI) palladium deposit. Modeling of whole-rock major-element compositions suggests that this complex, previously interpreted as gabbroic, is gabbronoritic in composition, adding to the likely association between LDI and the LLC. Mantle normalized trace-element profiles and modeled parental melt compositions from the cumulate lithologies indicate initial melt extraction from a metasomatized mantle source in an arc setting and subsequent crystallization of olivine, orthopyroxene, and plagioclase at depth following assimilation of SiO2 and S from tonalitic country rock. External S assimilation contributed to sulfide saturation at depth prior to or during emplacement, but sulfide melt entrainment in intruding magmas and its retention at the site of emplacement was variable. These interpretations are supported by (1) variations in Cu/Pd ratios between PGE-rich and PGE-poor lithologies, (2) the strongly negative Eu/Eu* of paragenetically early lithologies, (3) the overlap between whole-rock εNd(T) values of LLC lithologies and Wabigoon tonalite, and (4) the positive δ34S and uniformly non-zero ∆33S values of magmatic sulfides. During emplacement the intruding melts also assimilated metasedimentary country rock. This effect likely became more pervasive during later stages and resulted in additional melt fractionation and inheritance of the trace-element signature of the metasedimentary country rock by the intruding magmas. This assimilation does not, however, seem to have been an important driver of sulfide saturation in this system.
Emerging entities: high-grade/large B-cell lymphoma with 11q aberration, large B-cell lymphoma with IRF4 rearrangement, and new molecular subgroups in large B-cell lymphomas. A report of the 2022 EA4HP/SH lymphoma workshop
Authors: Quintanilla-Martinez Leticia , Laurent Camille , Soma Lorinda , Ng Siok-Bian , Climent Fina , Ondrejka Sarah L. , Zamo Alberto , Wotherspoon Andrew , de Leval Laurence , Dirnhofer Stefan , Leoncini Lorenzo
Published: August 2023

Emerging entities and molecular subgroups in large B-cell lymphomas (LBCLs) were discussed during the 2022 European Association for Haematopathology/Society for Hematopathology workshop in Florence, Italy. This session focused on newly recognized diseases and their diagnostic challenges. High-grade/large B-cell lymphoma with 11q aberration (HG/LBCL-11q) is defined by chromosome 11q-gains and telomeric loss. FISH analysis is recommended for the diagnosis. HG/LBCL-11q can occur in the setting of immunodeficiency, including ataxia-telangiectasia, and predominates in children. The morphological spectrum of these cases is broader than previously thought with often Burkitt-like morphology and coarse apoptotic bodies. It has a Burkitt-like immunophenotype (CD10+, BCL6+, BCL2−) but MYC expression is weak or negative, lacks MYC rearrangement, and is in contrast to Burkitt lymphoma 50% of the cases express LMO2. LBCL with IRF4 rearrangement (LBCL-IRF4) occurs mainly in the pediatric population but also in adults. LBCL-IRF4 has an excellent prognosis, with distinguishing molecular findings. IRF4 rearrangements, although characteristic of this entity, are not specific and can be found in association with other chromosomal translocations in other large B-cell lymphomas. Other molecular subgroups discussed included primary bone diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (PB-DLBCL), which has distinctive clinical presentation and molecular findings, and B-acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B-ALL) with IGH::MYC translocation recently segregated from Burkitt lymphoma with TdT expression. This latter disorder has molecular features of precursor B-cells, often tetrasomy 1q and recurrent NRAS and KRAS mutations. In this report, novel findings, recommendations for diagnosis, open questions, and diagnostic challenges raised by the cases submitted to the workshop will be discussed.
Proposal of a grading system for squamous cell carcinoma of the lung — the prognostic importance of tumour budding, single cell invasion, and nuclear diameter
Authors: Zombori-Tóth Noémi , Hegedűs Fanni , Almási Szintia , Sejben Anita , Tiszlavicz László , Furák József , Cserni Gábor , Zombori Tamás
Published: August 2023

The prognostic markers of lung squamous cell carcinoma (LSCC) are less investigated. The aim of our study was to evaluate tumour budding (TB), minimal cell nest size, nuclear diameter (ND), and spread through air spaces (STAS) among patients with resected LSCC, semi-quantitatively. Furthermore, we aimed to identify a grading system for the best prognostic stratification of LSCC. Patients who underwent surgical resection at the Department of Surgery, University of Szeged between 2010 and 2016 were included. Follow-up data were collected from medical charts. Morphological characteristics were recorded from histologic revision of slides. Kaplan-Meier analysis, log rank test and Cox proportional-hazards model, ROC curve analysis, and intraclass correlation were utilised. Altogether 220 patients were included. In univariate analysis, higher degree of TB, infiltrative tumour border, larger ND, the presence of single cell invasion (SCI) and STAS were associated with adverse prognosis. Based on our results, we proposed an easily applicable grading scheme focusing on TB, ND, and SCI. In multivariate analysis, the proposed grading system (pOS < 0.001, pRFS < 0.001) and STAS (pOS = 0.008, pRFS < 0.001) were independent prognosticators. Compared to the previously introduced grading systems, ROC curve analysis revealed that the proposed grade had the highest AUC values (AUCOS: 0.83, AUCRFS: 0.78). Each category of the proposed grading system has good (ICC: 0.79–0.88) reproducibility. We validated the prognostic impact of TB, SCI, ND, and STAS in LSCC. We recommend a reproducible grading system combining TB, SCI, and ND for proper prognostic stratification of LSCC patients. Further research is required for validation of this grading scheme.
Catchment-based sampling of river eDNA integrates terrestrial and aquatic biodiversity of alpine landscapes
Authors: Reji Chacko Merin , Altermatt Florian , Fopp Fabian , Guisan Antoine , Keggin Thomas , Lyet Arnaud , Rey Pierre-Louis , Richards Eilísh , Valentini Alice , Waldock Conor , Pellissier Loïc
Published: August 2023

Monitoring of terrestrial and aquatic species assemblages at large spatial scales based on environmental DNA (eDNA) has the potential to enable evidence-based environmental policymaking. The spatial coverage of eDNA-based studies varies substantially, and the ability of eDNA metabarcoding to capture regional biodiversity remains to be assessed; thus, questions about best practices in the sampling design of entire landscapes remain open. We tested the extent to which eDNA sampling can capture the diversity of a region with highly heterogeneous habitat patches across a wide elevation gradient for five days through multiple hydrological catchments of the Swiss Alps. Using peristaltic pumps, we filtered 60 L of water at five sites per catchment for a total volume of 1800 L. Using an eDNA metabarcoding approach focusing on vertebrates and plants, we detected 86 vertebrate taxa spanning 41 families and 263 plant taxa spanning 79 families across ten catchments. For mammals, fishes, amphibians and plants, the detected taxa covered some of the most common species in the region according to long-term records while including a few more rare taxa. We found marked turnover among samples from distinct elevational classes indicating that the biological signal in alpine rivers remains relatively localised and is not aggregated downstream. Accordingly, species compositions differed between catchments and correlated with catchment-level forest and grassland cover. Biomonitoring schemes based on capturing eDNA across rivers within biologically integrated catchments may pave the way toward a spatially comprehensive estimation of biodiversity.
The molecular diagnostic yield of frame-based stereotactic biopsies in the age of precision neuro-oncology: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Alhalabi Obada T. , Sahm Felix , Unterberg Andreas W. , Jakobs Martin
Published: August 2023

Purpose

With the increasing role of molecular genetics in the diagnostics of intracranial tumors, delivering sufficient representative tissue for such analyses is of paramount importance. This study explored the rate of successful diagnosis after frame-based stereotactic biopsies of intracranial lesions.

Methods

Consecutive patients undergoing frame-based stereotactic biopsies in 2020 and 2021 were included in this retrospective analysis. Cases were classified into three groups: conclusive, diagnosis with missing molecular genetics (MG) data, and inconclusive neuropathological diagnosis.

Results

Of 145 patients, a conclusive diagnosis was possible in n = 137 cases (94.5%). For 3 cases (2.0%), diagnosis was established with missing MG data. In 5 cases (3.5%), an inconclusive (tumor) diagnosis was met. Diagnoses comprised mainly WHO 4 glioblastomas (n = 73, 56%), CNS lymphomas (n = 23, 16%), inflammatory diseases (n = 14, 10%), and metastases (n = 5, 3%). Methylomics were applied in 49% (n = 44) of tumor cases (panel sequencing in n = 28, 30% of tumors). The average number of specimens used for MG diagnostics was 5, while the average number of specimens provided was 15. In a univariate analysis, insufficient DNA was associated with an inconclusive diagnosis or a diagnosis with missing MG data (p < 0.001). Analyses of planned and implemented trajectories of cases with diagnosis with missing MG data or inconclusive diagnosis (n = 8) revealed that regions of interest were reached in almost all cases (n = 7).

Conclusion

Although stereotactic frame-based biopsies deliver a limited amount of tissue, they bear high histopathological and molecular genetic diagnostic yields. Given the proven surgical precision of the planned biopsy trajectories, optimizing surveyed lesion regions could help improve the rate of conclusive diagnoses.
Expert consensus on the attributes and competencies required for rural and remote junior physicians to work effectively in isolated indonesian communities
Authors: Noya Farah C. , Carr Sandra E. , Thompson Sandra C.
Published: August 2023

Indonesian physicians working in rural and remote areas must be equipped not only with generic competencies but also with the attributes and skills necessary to provide health care services without compromising quality. This study sought to reach a consensus on the attributes and competencies that are viewed as essential and important for working effectively as an early career doctor in rural and remote practice in Indonesia. A two-round Delphi study was conducted by reference to 27 consenting physicians working in rural and remote Indonesia. Forty-three items covering 9 attributes and 34 competencies were sent to these physicians to be rated on a Likert scale ranging from 1 to 5 in terms of their importance for effective rural and remote practice. Nine attributes and 29 competencies progressed to Round 2. All nine attributes and 29 competencies were identified as essential or important for junior physicians’ ability to be effective in their practice. The essential attributes included professional quality related to prioritising the rural community. The essential competencies included medical skills, professional behaviour, interprofessional skills, health promotion and connection to the rural community. The consensus thus reached on these essential and important attributes and competencies can inform curriculum development for the undergraduate and postgraduate training of junior rural and remote physicians.