bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antibody mimetics: The next generation antibody engineering, a retrospective and prospective analysis
Authors: Zhang Siran , Wu Longjiang , Dang Mei
Published: December 2023

Antibody mimetics represent the fourth generation of antibody engineering, following polyclonal antibodies, monoclonal antibodies, and genetically engineered antibody fragments. Despite cumulative studies highlighting the advantages of antibody mimetics, including enhanced recognition properties, superior affinity, stability, penetrability, and cost‐effectiveness, a comprehensive review of this evolving field is notably absent. In this study, spanning 1986–2023 and analyzing 24,318 publications, we undertake a retrospective and prospective analysis to elucidate the evolution roadmap of antibody mimetics, providing insights into the current landscape, global contributions, and future trajectories. Concurrently, our aim is to establish standardized terminology and delineate the research scope within the realm of antibody mimetics. These endeavors not only chart the trajectory and scope of antibody mimetics research but also underscore its potential to revolutionize medicine, technology, and science.
Bank climate change initiatives, ownership structures, and corporate governance mechanisms: Evidence from emerging economies
Authors: Adu Douglas A. , Roni Naheed N.
Published: December 2023

Motivated by the growing attention on climate change acceleration, we examine the interrelationships among corporate governance disclosure index, bank ownership structures, and bank climate change initiatives through the lens of a multi‐theoretical framework. We conduct a fixed‐effects and dynamic two‐step system generalized method of moments models over an extensive dataset. Based on panel data of 220 banks (2,785 observations) from 16 Sub‐Saharan Africa emerging economies between 2007 and 2022, the study observes that banks with higher levels of corporate governance disclosure index engage in more climate change initiatives. The study shows that ownership by institutional and foreign investors is associated with more bank climate change initiatives, while government ownership reduces climate change initiatives. Further, we document that director ownership has no impact on climate change initiatives. The study documents that the association between bank ownership structures and bank climate change initiatives is positively moderated by the extent of the corporate governance disclosure index. This moderating impact improves for banks with high corporate governance mechanisms. Finally, we show that the bank ownership structures‐climate change initiatives linkage and the moderating effect of corporate governance mechanisms on this nexus vary significantly across banks' operating periods. We identify corporate governance disclosure as the potential channel through which bank ownership structures and climate change initiatives are interlinked. Our findings call for banks to adopt and implement good governance disclosure to improve climate change initiatives. The findings make significant theoretical and regulatory contributions.
A VR‐based wiring learning platform for promoting practice experience of electrical engineering
Authors: Xu Hongfei , Zheng YuanYu , Liang Jeremy S.
Published: December 2023

The training room of electrical engineering plays an important role in implementing learners' theoretical electrical knowledge and enhancing their operational skills. When operating in an electrical training room, learners often configure complex equipment with a set of multiple wires, components, and tools, and then debug them to ensure normal operation. It requires a large amount of practice to acquire the skills to configure the devices, and it is hard for learners to configure the device without any experience. Furthermore, it is also difficult to have hands‐on practice when there is not enough physical equipment on site or learners cannot be there in person. By applying virtual reality technology, it is possible to offer a greater learning experience for the learners. A VR‐based wiring learning platform (VWLP), in this study, is proposed, which targets at offering a resource of assisted learning regarding the electrical equipment. The result of the study reveals that the VWLP constructed in this research can promote learning effectiveness in electrical engineering, especially in the area of wiring skills, and the blended learning mode (a mix of both conventional instructor‐led practice activities and VR‐based learning platform) enhances the learning effect. Besides this, the result shows that VWLP has a significantly positive effect regarding participants' learning cognition and motivation. By communicating with the virtual objects in the VR environment, the participants can demonstrate a promoted comprehension of the training equipment. Meanwhile, participants in the experimental team also perceive an increase in their learning confidence due to increased practice opportunities, which in turn reduces cognitive load.
Apalutamide for prostate cancer: Multicentre and multidisciplinary real‐world study of 227 patients
Authors: Sánchez Julián Córdoba , Picola Natalia , Rodriguez‐Vida Alejo , Costa Marc , Castañeda David Marmolejo , Márquez Meritxell Pérez , Rodriguez Jesús Muñoz , Gaya J. M. , Bravo Alejandra , Buisan Oscar , Servian Pol , Suarez Jose Francisco , Felip Mireia Musquera , Caparrós Maria Jose Ribal , Asensio Antonio Alcaraz , Vilaseca Antoni
Published: December 2023

Objective

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of apalutamide prostate cancer compared to the pivotal trials patients and to identify the first subsequent therapy in a real‐world setting.

Methods

The study is prospective and observational based on real‐world evidence, performed by different medical disciplines and eight academics centres around Barcelona, Spain. It included all patients with metastatic hormone‐sensitive prostate cancer (mHSPC) and high‐risk non‐metastatic castration‐resistant prostate cancer (nmCRPC) treated with apalutamide from June 2018 to December 2022.

Results

Of 227 patients treated with apalutamide, 10% had ECOG‐PS 2, and 41% were diagnosed with new‐generation imaging. In the mHSPC group (209 patients), 75 years was the median age, 53% had synchronous metastases, and 22% were M1a. In the nmCRPC (18 patients), 82 years was the median age, and 81% ≤6 months had PSA doubling time. Patients achieved PSA90 in 92% of mHSPC and 50% of nmCRPC and PSA ≤0.2 in 71% of mHSPC and 39% of nmCRPC. Treatment‐related adverse events occurred in 40.1% of mHSPC and 44.4% of nmCRPC. After discontinuation of apalutamide due to disease progression, 54.5% in mHSPC and 75% in nmCRPC started chemotherapy, while after discontinuation because of adverse events, 73.3% in mHSPC and 100% in nmCRPC continued with other hormonal‐therapies.

Conclusions

The efficacy and safety of apalutamide were similar to that described in the pivotal trials, despite including an older and more comorbid population. Usually, subsequent therapies after apalutamide differed depending on the reason for discontinuation: by disease progression started chemotherapy and by adverse events hormonal sequencing.
Determination of Two Wound Healing Components in Streptocaulon juventas (Lour.) Merr.: Periplogenin and Digitoxigenin
Authors: Li Yang , Feng Xinchi , Qiu Feng
Published: December 2023

Streptocaulon juventas (Lour.) Merr. (SJ) is a herbal medicine can promote wound healing. Cardiac glycosides, especially periplogenin, digitoxigenin, and their glycosides were the main constituents of SJ. We aim to establish a method for the simultaneous determination of periplogenin and digitoxigenin in SJ and evaluate the wound healing activities of these two components. UPLC‐QqQ‐MS/MS was used for the determination of periplogenin and digitoxigenin. Meanwhile, rats were subjected to full‐thickness skin resection on the back to investigate the wound healing effects of periplogenin and digitoxigenin. The content of periplogenin and digitoxigenin in 13 batches of SJ extracts ranged from 43.26 to 97.15 μg/g and 18.04 to 55.55 μg/g, respectively. Periplogenin and digitoxigenin significantly increased the rate of wound healing in rats, increased the content of hydroxyproline in wound tissue, and improved the pathological state of wound skin tissue.
Recent Advances in Hydrogen Production from Hybrid Water Electrolysis through Alternative Oxidation Reactions
Authors: Fan Li , Wang Di , Ma Kui , Zhou Chang‐An , Yue Hairong
Published: December 2023

Water splitting driven by green electricity from renewable energy input to produce H2 has been widely considered as a promising strategy to realize the goals for future clean energy. However, in conventional overall water electrolysis, the sluggish kinetics and high onset potential of anode OER limit the cathode HER rate, which lowers the overall energy conversion efficiency. Over the past decade, an innovative concept involving hybrid water electrolysis by replacing OER with thermodynamically more favorable oxidation reactions coupling with the cathodic hydrogen evolution reaction has been devised to alleviate the limitations associated with the anodic OER. In this review, we summarize the recent progress concerning electrochemical hydrogen production by coupling the oxidation of molecules incorporating hydroxyl, aldehyde, and amino functional groups, with special emphasis on alternative reactions involving CO and sulfide. Finally, the remaining challenges and future perspectives are also discussed. We hope this review will accelerate the development of novel strategies for practicable H2 production from hybrid water electrolysis.
Sichere Lagerung von Lithium‐Ionen‐Batterien
Authors: Sievers Sven
Published: December 2023

Lithium und viele seiner Verbindungen sind leichtentzündlich und hochreaktiv. Daher sind die Sicherheitsanforderungen beim Lagern und Laden von Lithium‐Ionen‐Akkus hoch. Der Ion‐Line Ultra Sicherheitsschrank ist GS‐geprüft und bietet Sicherheit beim Lagern und Laden der Batterien.
Chemiepumpen als Schlüssel zu mehr Prozesssicherheit
Authors: Anstöter Stefan
Published: December 2023

Angesichts der eingesetzten Substanzen, der Komplexität der Verfahren sowie der potenziellen Gefahren für Mensch und Umwelt spielt die Prozesssicherheit in der Chemieindustrie eine so maßgebliche Roll. Besonders im Bereich der Pumpen ist Ausfallsicherheit essenziell. Pumpen fungieren als Schlüsselkomponente chemischer Prozesse und sorgen für Sicherheit der gesamten Anlage.
ChemCar‐Pokal 2023 des VDI geht nach Berlin
Authors: Woppowa Ljuba
Published: December 2023

Den ersten Platz beim diesjährigen ChemCar‐Wettbewerb sicherte sich das Team der TU Berlin, mit ihrem ChemCar “Ronny V5”, gefolgt vom Team “Reactics” der Universitas Gadjah Mada aus Indonesien und dem Team “DOppertunity” der TU Dortmund auf den Plätzen zwei und drei.
Nickel‐Catalyzed Regio‐ and Stereoselective Defluorinative Arylation of gem‐Difluorinated Cyclopropanes
Authors: Qi Shutao , Hua Yunkai , Pan Liangkai , Yang Junfeng , Zhang Junliang
Published: December 2023

Comprehensive Summary

Herein, we report nickel‐catalyzed cross‐coupling of gem‐difluorinated cyclopropanes with boronic acids, providing the corresponding arylated 2‐fluoroallylic scaffolds. This approach used commercially available phosphine ligand Xantphos to obtain monofluorinated alkenes with high regioselectivity and Z‐stereoselectivity. Mechanistic studies proposed a Ni(II)‐fluoroallyl pathway and excluded the radical pathway. Meanwhile, DFT study of the reductive elimination clarified the origin of the high linear selectivity.
Design, Synthesis, and Bioactivity Evaluations of 3‐Methylenechroman‐2‐one Derivatives as Thioredoxin Reductase (TrxR) Inhibitors
Authors: Nikitjuka Anna , Ozola Melita , Krims‐Davis Kristaps , Žalubovskis Raivis
Published: December 2023

We aimed to design and synthesize 3‐methylenechroman‐2‐one derivatives and test their potency as TrxR1 inhibitors. A convenient and easy‐to‐handle synthetic approach to 3‐methylenechroman‐2‐ones was developed. The in vitro inhibitory activity towards recombinant TrxR1 was determined for the obtained compounds. The most potent representatives exhibited submicromolar TrxR1 inhibition activity (IC50 varied from 0.29 μM to 10.2 μM). Structure‐activity relationship analysis indicates the beneficial role of the substituent at the position C‐6 of the core of chroman‐2‐one, where the derivatives containing halogen are the most active among the scope of compounds obtained. The most potent TrxR1 inhibitor of the series was further examined in in vitro cell‐based assays to assess cytotoxic effects on various cancer cell lines, and to evaluate their influence on cell apoptosis.
The association between food access and frailty among older adults with gastrointestinal malignancies—The CARE Registry
Authors: Fowler Mackenzie E. , Harmon Christian , Sharafeldin Noha , Baker Elizabeth , Oates Gabriela , Nassel Ariann , Clausing Daniel , Giri Smith , Williams Grant R.
Published: December 2023

Background

Food access is associated with higher gastrointestinal (GI) cancer mortality; however, its association with frailty, which is a predictor of premature mortality among older adults with cancer, is less understood.

Methods

The authors included 880 adults aged 60 years and older who were recently diagnosed with GI cancers and were undergoing self‐reported geriatric assessment at their first prechemotherapy visit to the University of Alabama at Birmingham oncology clinic. Food access was measured using the 2019 US Department of Agriculture Economic Research Service designation low‐income, low‐access (LILA), classifying census tracts based on income and/or access to food stores at various distances. The primary outcome was frailty on the CARE (Cancer and Aging Resilience Evaluation) Frailty Index, a composite of the proportion of impaired geriatric assessment measures. The authors examined the LILA‐frailty association with modified Poisson regression accounting for census‐tract clustering.

Results

The median patient age was 69 years, 58.1% were men, 22.5% were non‐Hispanic Black, 29.2% had colorectal cancer, 28.0% had pancreatic cancer, 70.1% presented with stage III/IV disease, and 34.9% were frail. A higher proportion in LILA areas were non‐Hispanic Black (44.1% vs. 10.8%; p < .001) and had less education (high school or less: 48.1% vs. 37.9%; p = .020). Adjusting for age, race and ethnicity, sex, cancer type and stage, and education, an LILA designation was associated with 58% greater odds of worsening frailty status (95% confidence interval, 1.18–2.12). An analysis of LILA subcategories revealed that associations were maintained across all LILA measures.

Conclusions

Poor food access was associated with a greater risk of frailty among newly diagnosed older adults with GI cancers before they received systemic treatment. Intervening on local food access, particularly in LILA areas, may be a target for improving rates of frailty and promoting health equity in this population.
Esculetin unveiled: Decoding its anti‐tumor potential through molecular mechanisms—A comprehensive review
Authors: Rezoan Hossain Md. , Zahra Shova Fatema Tuj , Akter Munni , Shuvo Shahporan , Ahmed Nasim , Akter Afroza , Haque Munira , Salma Umme , Roman Mogal Md , Saha Hasi Rani , Sarkar Bidhan Chandra , Sohel Md
Published: December 2023

Background

The growing complexity of cancer has made it a significant concern in the medical community. Although cancer research has advanced, it is still challenging to create new effective medications due to the limitations and side effects of existing treatment strategies. These are enforcing the development of some alternative drugs from natural compounds with fewer drawbacks and side effects.

Aim

Therefore, this review aims to provide up‐to‐date, crucial, and all‐encompassing data on esculetin's anticancer activity, including all relevant molecular and cellular processes based on in vivo and in vitro investigations.

Results

According to the literature review, esculetin is available in nature and is effective against 16 different types of cancer. The general mechanism shown by esculetin is modulating signaling cascades and its related pathways, like cell proliferation, cell growth, autophagy, apoptosis, necrosis, inflammation, angiogenesis, metastasis, invasion, and DNA damage. Nanoformulation of esculetin improves this natural product's efficacy by improving water solubility. Esculetin's synergistic effects with both natural substances and conventional treatments have been shown, and this method aids in reversing resistance mechanisms by modulating resistance‐related proteins. In addition, it has fewer side effects on humans than other phytochemicals and standard drugs with some good pharmacokinetic features.

Conclusion

Therefore, until standard chemotherapeutics are available in pharmaceutical markets, esculetin should be used as a therapeutic drug against various cancer types.
Machine Learning‐Led Optimization of Combination Therapy: Confronting the Public Health Threat of Extensively Drug Resistant Gram‐Negative Bacteria
Authors: Smith Nicholas M. , Nguyen Thomas D. , Lodise Thomas P. , Chen Liang , Kaur Jan Naseer , Klem John F. , Boissonneault Katie Rose , Holden Patricia N. , Roach Dwayne R. , Tsuji Brian T.
Published: December 2023

Developing optimized regimens for combination antibiotic therapy is challenging and often performed empirically over many clinical studies. Novel implementation of a hybrid machine‐learning pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic/toxicodynamic (ML‐PK/PD/TD) approach optimizes combination therapy using human PK/TD data along with in vitro PD data. This study utilized human population PK (PopPK) of aztreonam, ceftazidime/avibactam, and polymyxin B along with in vitro PDs from the Hollow Fiber Infection Model (HFIM) to derive optimal multi‐drug regimens de novo through implementation of a genetic algorithm (GA). The mechanism‐based PD model was constructed based on 7‐day HFIM experiments across 4 clinical, extensively drug resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae isolates. GA‐led optimization was performed using 13 different fitness functions to compare the effects of different efficacy (60%, 70%, 80%, or 90% of simulated subjects achieving bacterial counts of 102 CFU/mL) and toxicity (66% of simulated subjects having a target polymyxin B area under the concentration‐time curve [AUC] of 100 mg·h/L and aztreonam AUC of 1,332 mg·h/L) on the optimized regimen. All regimens, except those most heavily weighted for toxicity prevention, were able to achieve the target efficacy threshold (102 CFU/mL). Overall, GA‐based regimen optimization using preclinical data from animal‐sparing in vitro studies and human PopPK produced clinically relevant dosage regimens similar to those developed empirically over many years for all three antibiotics. Taken together, these data provide significant insight into new therapeutic approaches incorporating ML to regimen design and treatment of resistant bacterial infections.
Circularly Polarized Luminescence Switching of Chiral Perylene Diimide‐Doped Nematic Liquid Crystal Using DC Electric Field
Authors: Suzuki Seika , Kaneko Kosuke , Hanasaki Tomonori , Shizuma Motohiro , Imai Yoshitane
Published: December 2023

To obtain chiral luminescent nematic liquid crystals (N*‐LCs), two sets of chiral perylene luminescent materials (R,R)/(S,S)‐N,N′‐bis(1‐cyclohexylethyl)perylene‐3,4,9,10‐tetracarboxylic diimide [(R,R)/(S,S)‐CPDI] and (R,R)/(S,S)‐N,N′‐bis(1‐phenylethyl)perylene‐3,4,9,10‐tetracarboxylic diimide [(R,R)/(S,S)‐BPP] were prepared and doped into a nematic liquid crystal (N‐LC), 5CB. The obtained liquid crystals N*‐LC‐CPDI and N*‐LC‐BPP emitted stronger circularly polarized luminescence (CPL) signals than the CPDI‐ and BPP‐containing chiral poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) luminescent films owing to higher helical twist power. When a direct current (DC) electric field was applied to N*‐LC, a reversible CPL response was obtained due to the field‐induced phase transition from the chiral nematic phase to the nematic phase. This demonstrated the successful construction of an ′′on‐off‐on′′ CPL system based on a DC electric field and was attributed to the change in the liquid crystalline organization from a uniformly lying helical structure to a planar one. This work can provide an effective strategy for the development of functional CPL devices in which the CPL can be regulated by applying a DC electric field to the N*‐LC.
Log D7.4 and plasma protein binding of synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists and a comparison of experimental and predicted lipophilicity
Authors: Brandon Andrew M. , Baginski Steven R. , Peet Caroline , Dugard Pat , Green Henrik , Sutcliffe Oliver B. , Daéid Niamh Nic , Nisbet Lorna A. , Read Kevin D. , McKenzie Craig
Published: December 2023

The emergence of new synthetic cannabinoid receptor agonists (SCRAs) onto the illicit drugs market continues to cause harm, and the overall availability of physicochemical and pharmacokinetic data for new psychoactive substances is lacking. The lipophilicity of 23 SCRAs and the plasma protein binding (PPB) of 11 SCRAs was determined. Lipophilicity was determined using a validated chromatographic hydrophobicity index (CHI) log D method; tested SCRAs showed moderate to high lipophilicity, with experimental log D7.4 ranging from 2.48 (AB‐FUBINACA) to 4.95 (4F‐ABUTINACA). These results were also compared to in silico predictions generated using seven commercially available software packages and online tools (Canvas; ChemDraw; Gastroplus; MoKa; PreADMET; SwissADME; and XlogP). Licenced, dedicated software packages provided more accurate lipophilicity predictions than those which were free or had prediction as a secondary function; however, the latter still provided competitive estimates in most cases. PPB of tested SCRAs, as determined by equilibrium dialysis, was in the upper range of the lipophilicity scale, ranging from 90.8% (ADB‐BUTINACA) to 99.9% (BZO‐HEXOXIZID). The high PPB of these drugs may contribute to reduced rate of clearance and extended durations of pharmacological effects compared to lesser‐bound SCRAs. The presented data improve understanding of the behaviour of these drugs in the body. Ultimately, similar data and predictions may be used in the prediction of the structure and properties of drugs yet to emerge on the illicit market.
Research on damage failure mechanism and dynamic mechanical behavior of layered shale with different angles under confining pressure
Authors: Luo Ning , Zhang Haohao , Chai Yabo , Li Penglong , Zhai Cheng , Zhou Jianan , Ma Tianran
Published: December 2023

The hydrostatic or confining pressure of deep rocks has a significant impact on the mechanical behavior of brittle materials. Especially when confining pressure is applied, the mechanical properties of rock materials will undergo significant changes. Considering that the process of shale sample subjected to impact load is in a closed container in the dynamic triaxial SHPB test, the failure process of the sample cannot be observed. Meanwhile, the activation volume of the shale sample would be large and local failure would occur in the test under the high strain rate loading. Therefore, the finite element model of shale considering the bedding effect under confining pressure was established in this study. Taking shale materials with different bedding dip angles as simulation objects, the dynamic failure characteristics of shale were studied using the dynamic analysis software ANSYS/LS‐DYNA from three aspects: stress‐strain curve, failure growth process, and failure morphology. The research results obtained can serve as the key technical parameters for deep resource extraction.
Spatiotemporal mapping of (ultra‐)mafic magmatic mine areas: Implications of economic and political realities in China
Authors: Li Heling , Tang Liang , Werner Tim T. , Hou Zhengmeng , Meng Fan , Li Jingjing
Published: December 2023

The spatiotemporal extension/expansion of mine areas is affected by multiple factors. So far, very little has been done to examine the interaction between mine areas and political or economic realities. The (ultra‐)mafic magmatic mines in China played a specific role in supporting national development and providing an ideal research subject for monitoring their interrelationship. In this study, remote sensing and mining‐related GIS data were used to identify and analyze 1233 (ultra‐)mafic magmatic mine area polygons in China, which covered approximately 322.96 km2of land and included a V–Ti–Fe mine, a copper–nickel mine, a chromite mine, an asbestos mine, and a diamond mine. It was found that (1) the areal expansion of mines is significantly related to the mine types, perimeter, topography, and population density. (2) The mine area variation also reflects market and policy realities. The temporal expansion of the mine area from 2010 to 2020 followed an S‐shaped pattern (with the turning point occurring in 2014), closely related to iron overcapacity and tightened mining policies. (3) The complexity (D) of the mine area may reflect mine design and excavation practices. To be specific, lowerDindicates early‐stage or artisanal/small‐scale mining, whereas higherDrepresents large‐scale mining. This study demonstrates that the detailed mapping of mine land can serve as an indicator to implement mining‐related market and policy changes. The (ultra‐)mafic mines area data set can be accessed athttps://zenodo.org/record/7636616#.Y-p0uXaZOa0.
MultiBarcodeTools: Easy selection of optimal primers for eDNA multi‐metabarcoding
Authors: Zhu Tao , Iwasaki Wataru
Published: December 2023

Metabarcoding of environmental DNA (eDNA) is a revolutionary technique for comprehensive and efficient monitoring of ecosystems, including invasive and endangered species. Although numerous universal primers have been developed for eDNA metabarcoding, no single primer can amplify and discriminate all species in any environment. Parallel metabarcoding using multiple primer sets, or multi‐metabarcoding, is expected to overcome this limitation; however, it is not easy to select optimal primers from dozens of existing primers considering various research purposes and sequence platform availabilities. Herein, we developed MultiBarcodeSelector, which automatically recommends the optimal combination of fish eDNA multi‐metabarcoding primers, and MultiBarcodeMap, which pre‐computes region‐specific optimal primers. Furthermore, for users who want to target non‐fish species, use original primers, and develop their own databases, we also provide a stand‐alone MultiBarcodePipeline. We show that multi‐metabarcoding substantially enhances the performance of eDNA community analysis. In our assessment that targeted fish species in various aquatic regions of Japan, an extra barcode suggested by the MultiBarcodeTools significantly reduced the proportion of undistinguishable species. Our MultiBarcodeTools will benefit various biodiversity research studies, including species detection, monitoring, conservation, and economic utilization. MultiBarcodeSelector and MultiBarcodeMap are available at https://multibarcode.k.u‐tokyo.ac.jp, and MultiBarcodePipeline is available at https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.10007568.
Hydrothermal liquefaction of Datura stramonium L.: Influence of temperature and heterogeneous catalysts
Authors: Genel Salih
Published: December 2023

In this study, Datura stramonium L. plant was converted into liquid products by hydrothermal liquefaction method with and without catalysts (Al, Zn, and Cu). The reaction temperature was determined as 300, 325, and 350°C, and the waiting time was determined as 30 min. The obtained liquid products were characterized by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) and elemental analysis methods. Higher light bio‐oil and heavy bio‐oil yields were obtained with Al, Zn, and Cu catalysts compared to experiments without catalysts. The highest light bio‐oil yields were found as 10.24%, 8.87%, and 7.98% for Zn, Cu, and Al catalysts, respectively. In heavy bio‐oil, the highest efficiency was obtained as 26.98% in the presence of Al catalyst. For all experiments, the highest liquid product yield was obtained at 325 C. At the end of the experiments, it was determined that heterogeneous catalysts were effective on product yield and compound types.
A multi‐layer thermo‐mechanical coupling hysteretic model for high damping rubber bearings at low temperature
Authors: Shen Jie , Akira Igarashi , Dang Ji , Hamada Yuki , Himeno Takehiko
Published: December 2023

High damping rubber (HDR) bearings have been widely applied in seismic isolation of structures. However, the complex behavior of HDR bearings is influenced by thermal mechanism coupled with the seismic response of the structure, particularly at low ambient temperatures. In order to express the hysteretic restoring force behavior of HDR bearings involving temperature dependence, heating effect, and heat transfer with an improved accuracy, a multi‐layer thermo‐mechanical coupling model was developed. The thermal mechanism was illustrated by considering the heating effect and heat transfer in the multi‐layer thermal‐coupled model. A nonlinear hysteretic model including the temperature dependence of the stress‐strain relationship of rubber was incorporated. Quasi‐static cyclic loading was conducted for parameter identification and real‐time hybrid simulation tests were carried out for model validation. The model accurately represented the time‐dependent thermal mechanism within the bearing, considering the non‐uniform distribution of internal temperature. Numerical results exhibited good agreement with the experimental results, including the hysteresis curve, temperature history, and temperature distribution. The model demonstrated improved accuracy in computing the hysteretic behavior compared with an existing simple model.
Hybrid‐simulation‐based model calibration method for nonlinear seismic analysis
Authors: Zhang Hongzhou , Kwon Oh‐Sung , Christopoulos Constantin
Published: December 2023

The calibration of parameters of hysteretic models that simulate the hysteretic behavior of key structural components is a crucial task in the nonlinear seismic analysis of structures to ensure accurate analysis results. For complicated systems, a direct calibration of model parameters at the system level is almost impossible due to the lack of test data. Consequently, the calibration is usually conducted using test results with lower levels of complexity. Currently, a widely accepted practice in calibrating hysteretic model parameters in structural models is to utilize standardized cyclic tests of a single component. However, due to the simplified and unrealistic loading profile of standardized cyclic tests, the relevance between the calibration and the system‐level prediction capabilities can be weak. In other words, a well‐tuned hysteretic model that matches the standardized cyclic test results very well may not be able to produce the same level of accuracy in estimating the system‐level structural dynamic response where the calibrated components will experience more random and complicated loadings. In this paper, a method is proposed to calibrate hysteretic models in a test method with more realistic loading histories through hybrid simulations. The proposed calibration method is then validated by conducting a large number of hybrid simulations on a type of small‐scale buckling‐restrained brace (BRB) specimen. A framework is also proposed to evaluate the relevance between the calibration and the system‐level response considering uncertainties in hysteretic model parameters. The results demonstrate the superiority of the hybrid‐simulation‐based calibration method over the conventional cyclic‐test‐based calibration method.
Fireworks disturbance across bird communities
Authors: Hoekstra Bart , Bouten Willem , Dokter Adriaan , van Gasteren Hans , van Turnhout Chris , Kranstauber Bart , van Loon Emiel , Leijnse Hidde , Shamoun‐Baranes Judy
Published: December 2023

Fireworks are important elements of celebrations globally, but little is known about their effects on wildlife. The synchronized and extraordinary use of fireworks on New Year's Eve triggers strong flight responses in birds. We used weather radar and systematic bird counts to quantify how flight responses differed across habitats and corresponding bird communities, and determined the distance‐dependence of this relationship. On average, approximately 1000 times as many birds were in flight on New Year's Eve than on other nights. We found that fireworks‐related disturbance decreased with distance, most strongly in the first five kilometers, but overall flight activity remained elevated tenfold at distances up to about 10 km. Communities of large‐bodied species displayed a stronger response than communities of small‐bodied species. Given the pervasive nature of this disturbance, the establishment of large fireworks‐free zones or centralizing fireworks within urban centers could help to mitigate their effects on birds. Conservation action should prioritize avian communities with the most disturbance‐prone, large‐bodied bird species.
MALL‐based collaborative writing in second language classroom: A systematic review
Authors: Wang Lisha
Published: December 2023

Driven by the affordances and benefits of mobile technology, collaborative writing (CW) supported by mobile technologies has been increasingly implemented in the second language (L2) acquisition context. To shed light on the research foci and provide guidance for future research in this promising area, the present study conducted an in‐depth and systematic review of 25 empirical articles on CW supported by mobile technologies in the L2 context published from 2014 to 2022, including quantitative, qualitative, and mix‐methods research. A holistic analysis of these articles was conducted, covering various aspects such as research themes, research contexts and technology, theoretical/pedagogical frameworks, writing tasks, and instruments. Based on the analysis of the previous research, this study provided pedagogical suggestions concerning writing tasks, group division, participant training, and writing assessment and also explores future research directions.
Exploring the serotonin‐probiotics‐gut health axis: A review of current evidence and potential mechanisms
Authors: Akram Noor , Faisal Zargham , Irfan Rushba , Shah Yasir Abbas , Batool Syeda Ayesha , Zahid Toobaa , Zulfiqar Aqsa , Fatima Areeja , Jahan Qudsia , Tariq Hira , Saeed Farhan , Ahmed Aftab , Asghar Aasma , Ateeq Huda , Afzaal Muhammad , Khan Mahbubur Rahman
Published: December 2023

Modulatory effects of serotonin (5‐Hydroxytryptamine [5‐HT]) have been seen in hepatic, neurological/psychiatric, and gastrointestinal (GI) disorders. Probiotics are live microorganisms that confer health benefits to their host. Recent research has suggested that probiotics can promote serotonin signaling, a crucial pathway in the regulation of mood, cognition, and other physiological processes. Reviewing the literature, we find that peripheral serotonin increases nutrient uptake and storage, regulates the composition of the gut microbiota, and is involved in mediating neuronal disorders. This review explores the mechanisms underlying the probiotic‐mediated increase in serotonin signaling, highlighting the role of gut microbiota in the regulation of serotonin production and the modulation of neurotransmitter receptors. Additionally, this review discusses the potential clinical implications of probiotics as a therapeutic strategy for disorders associated with altered serotonin signaling, such as GI and neurological disorders. Overall, this review demonstrates the potential of probiotics as a promising avenue for the treatment of serotonin‐related disorders and signaling of serotonin.
Utilization of pomegranate and black grape seed by‐products in yogurt production: Effects on phenolic compounds and antioxidant activity
Authors: Çalişkanlar Sibel , Saygili Derya , Karagözlü Nural , Karagözlü Cem
Published: December 2023

The present study investigated the potential utilization of pomegranate and black grape seed by‐products of the food industry in yogurt production. Specifically, we examined the effect of polyphenols on antioxidants in yogurts produced using two different starter cultures: classical yogurt culture (Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus + Streptococcus thermophilus) and yogurt culture supplemented with L. casei. Various parameters, including pH, acidity, viscosity, fat content, protein content, dry matter content, color, microbiological properties, and sensory attributes, were analyzed in the yogurt products. The present findings indicate that incorporating pomegranate and grape seed powder and using different starter cultures significantly affected the yogurt's phenolic content and antioxidant activity. Furthermore, we observed decreased phenolic content and antioxidant activity during the 21‐day storage period. Interestingly, yogurts produced with pomegranate seed powder and L. casei culture exhibited higher antioxidant activity than the other samples. Importantly, none of the yogurts containing pomegranate and grape seed powders had microbial counts below 107 cfu/g for L. delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus, S. thermophilus, and L. casei, indicating no adverse effects on probiotic properties. Sensory evaluation revealed that the yogurt product prepared with grape seed powder and a combination of yogurt culture (L. delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus + Streptococcus thermophilus) and L. casei was particularly well‐received. In conclusion, the functional properties of grape seed powder and pomegranate seed powder make them suitable natural ingredients for enhancing the antioxidant activity of yogurt. The study highlights the potential of utilizing these by‐products to develop yogurt products with added health benefits.
Ultra‐high combined positive score and high serum albumin are favorable prognostic biomarkers for immune checkpoint inhibitors in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Saito Yuki , Kobayashi Kenya , Fukuoka Osamu , Sakai Toshihiko , Yamamura Koji , Ando Mizuo , Kondo Kenji
Published: December 2023

Background

Biomarkers that predict response to immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI) in recurrent metastatic squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck (RMHNSCC) are not well known.

Methods

We prospectively measured the combined positive score (CPS) and administered ICI to patients with RMHNSCC.

Results

Of 51 patients, 23 patients had a CPS <20 and 12 patients (23.5%) had a CPS ≥90. CPS showed a negative correlation with serum albumin. Survival analysis showed a 2‐year survival rate of 24.1%. In multivariate analysis, CPS ≥90 (HR 0.3026, p = 0.02614) and albumin >3.5 (HR 0.3463, p = 0.01354) were the significant factors and plus chemotherapy (HR 0.4648, p = 0.07632) was not significant. Seven patients (14%) with CPS ≥90 and albumin >3.5 showed a 2‐year survival rate of 66. 7%.

Conclusions

CPS ≥90 and albumin >3.5 cases are a subgroup of RMHNSCC that respond extremely well to ICI.
Low‐dose radiation therapy mobilizes antitumor immunity: New findings and future perspectives
Authors: Zhou Laiyan , Liu Yuanxin , Wu Yuanjun , Yang Xue , Spring Kong Feng‐Ming , Lu You , Xue Jianxin
Published: December 2023

Radiotherapy has unique immunostimulatory and immunosuppressive effects. Although high‐dose radiotherapy has been found to have systemic antitumor effects, clinically significant abscopal effects were uncommon on the basis of irradiating single lesion. Low‐dose radiation therapy (LDRT) emerges as a novel approach to enhance the antitumor immune response due to its role as a leverage to reshape the tumor immune microenvironment (TIME). In this article, from bench to bedside, we reviewed the possible immunomodulatory role of LDRT on TIME and systemic tumor immune environment, and outlined preclinical evidence and clinical application. We also discussed the current challenges when LDRT is used as a combination therapy, including the optimal dose, fraction, frequency, and combination of drugs. The advantage of low toxicity makes LDRT potential to be applied in multiple lesions to amplify antitumor immune response in polymetastatic disease, and its intersection with other disciplines might also make it a direction for radiotherapy‐combined modalities.
Ex vivo tissue modelling informs drug selection for rare cancers
Authors: Lee Jenny H. , Ming Zizhen , Cheung Veronica K. Y. , Pedersen Bernadette , Wykes James J. , Palme Carsten E. , Clark Jonathan J. , Gupta Ruta , Rizos Helen
Published: December 2023

The identification and therapeutic targeting of actionable gene mutations across many cancer types has resulted in improved response rates in a minority of patients. The identification of actionable mutations is usually not sufficient to ensure complete nor durable responses, and in rare cancers, where no therapeutic standard of care exists, precision medicine indications are often based on pan‐cancer data. The inclusion of functional data, however, can provide evidence of oncogene dependence and guide treatment selection based on tumour genetic data. We applied an ex vivo cancer explant modelling approach, that can be embedded in routine clinical care and allows for pathological review within 10 days of tissue collection. We now report that ex vivo tissue modelling provided accurate longitudinal response data in a patient with BRAFV600E‐mutant papillary thyroid tumour with squamous differentiation. The ex vivo model guided treatment selection for this patient and confirmed treatment resistance when the patient's disease progressed after 8 months of treatment.
Chinese expert consensus statement on the clinical application of AFP/AFP‐L3%/DCP using GALAD and GALAD‐like algorithm in HCC
Authors: Huang Chenjun , Xiao Xiao , Zhou Lin , Chen Fuxiang , Wang Jianyi , Hu Xiaobo , Gao Chunfang ,   Clinical Laboratory Society of Chinese Rehabilitation Medicine Association, Molecular Diagnostics Society of Shanghai Medical Association, Tumor Immunology Branch of Shanghai Society for Immunology
Published: December 2023

Background

Primary hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most prevalent world‐wide malignancies. Half of the newly developed HCC occurs in China. Optimizing the strategies for high‐risk surveillance and early diagnosis are pivotal for improving 5‐year survival. Constructing the scientific non‐invasive detection technologies feasible for medical and healthcare institutions is among the key routes for elevating the efficacies of HCC identification and follow‐up.

Results

Based on the Chinese and international guidelines, expert consensus statements, literatures and evidence‐based clinical practice experiences, this consensus statement puts forward the clinical implications, application subjects, detection techniques and results interpretations of the triple‐biomarker (AFP, AFP‐L3%, DCP) based GALAD, GALAD like models for liver cancer.

Conclusions

The compile of this consensus statement aims to address and push the reasonable application of the triple‐biomarker (AFP, AFP‐L3%, DCP) detections thus to maximize the clinical benefits and help improving the high risk surveillance, early diagnosis and prognosis of HCC.
Diagnostic accuracy of Point Of Care UltraSound (POCUS) in clinical practice: A retrospective, emergency department based study
Authors: Spampinato Michele Domenico , Luppi Francesco , Cristofaro Enrico , Benedetto Marcello , Cianci Antonella , Bachechi Tommaso , Ghirardi Caterina , Perna Benedetta , Guarino Matteo , Passaro Angelina , De Giorgio Roberto , Sofia Soccorsa
Published: December 2023

Aims

Point‐of‐care ultrasound (POCUS) is the acquisition and interpretation of ultrasound imaging at the bedside to solve specific clinical questions based on signs and symptoms of presentation. While several studies evaluated POCUS diagnostic accuracy for a variety of clinical pictures in the emergency department (ED), only a few data are available on POCUS diagnostic accuracy performed by physicians with different POCUS skills. The objective of this research was to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of POCUS compared to standard diagnostic imaging in the ED.

Materials and Methods

This was a retrospective study conducted in the ED of a third‐level university hospital. Patients who underwent cardiac, thoracic, abdominal, or venous lower limb POCUS and a standard imaging examination between June 2021 and January 2022 were included.

Results

1047 patients were screened, and 844 patients included. A total of 933 POCUS was included (102, 12.09%, cardiac; 466, 55.21%, thoracic; 336, 39.8%, abdominal; 29, 3.44%, lower limb venous POCUS), accounting for 2029 examinations. POCUS demonstrated 96.6% (95% CI 95.72–97.34) accuracy, 47.73 (95% CI 33.64–67.72) +LR, 0.09 (95% CI 0.06–0.12) −LR. +LR was greater than 10 for all investigations but for hydronephrosis (5.8), and −LR never exceeded 0.4.

Conclusions

POCUS exhibited high diagnostic accuracy for virtually all conditions when performed by emergency department physicians.
Identification and exploration of aging‐related subtypes and distinctive role of SERPINE1 in heart failure based on single‐cell and bulk RNA sequencing data
Authors: Li Shengnan , Kong Fanliang , Xu Xuan , Song Sifan , Wu Yandan , Tong Jiayi
Published: December 2023

Aging is a major risk factor for heart failure (HF) and is the leading cause of death worldwide. Currently, the nature of the relationship between aging and HF is not entirely clear. Herein, this study aimed to explore new diagnostic biomarkers, molecular typing and therapeutic strategies for HF by investigating the biological significance of aging‐related genes in HF. A total of 157 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were screened totally between HF and normal samples, and functional enrichment analysis of DEGs revealed the strong association of HF progression with aging, immune processes and metabolism. Six HF‐specific aging‐related genes were further identified, and a diagnostic model was developed and validated for good diagnostic efficacy. In addition, we collected blood samples from 10 normal controls and 10 HF patients for RT‐qPCR analysis to verify the bioinformation. We also identified two aging‐associated subtypes with distinctly different immune infiltration and metabolic microenvironment. Further single‐cell sequencing analysis conducted in the study identified SERPINE1 as a key gene in HF. The distinctive role of SERPINE1 fibroblasts was revealed, including three main findings: (I) fibroblasts had a higher proportion and expression of SERPINE1 levels in HF; (II) the ligand–receptor pair MDK‐LRP1 made the most contributions in high interactions with other cell types in SERPINE1 fibroblasts; and (III) SERPINE1 fibroblasts were associated with the interaction of extracellular matrix and receptor and may be regulated by the transcription factor EGR1. In conclusion, this study highlights the importance of aging‐related genes in diagnosing HF and regulating immune infiltration. We also identified different HF subtypes and a potentially crucial gene, which may provide a better understanding of the molecular‐level mechanisms of aging‐related HF and aid in developing effective therapeutic strategies.