bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Stretchable Heat Transfer Eco‐Materials: Mesogen Grafted NR‐Based Nanocomposites with High Thermal Conductivity and Low Dielectric Constant
Authors: Hyeong Jaeseok , Koo Jahyeon , Rim Minwoo , Wi Youngjae , Ko Hyeyoon , Yu Dongmin , Kim Sanghee , Kim Namil , Yoo Myong Jae , Jeong Kwang‐Un
Published: September 2024

Biomass‐based functional polymers have received significant attention across various fields, in view of eco‐friendly human society and sustainable growth. In this context, there are efforts to functionalize the biomass polymers for next‐generation polymer materials. Here, stretchable heat transfer materials are focused on which are essential for stretchable electronics and future robotics. To achieve this goal, natural rubber (NR) is chemically modified with a thiol‐terminated phenylnaphthalene (TTP), and then utilized as a thermally conductive NR (TCNR) matrix. Hexagonal boron nitride (h‐BN), renowned for its high thermal conductivity and low electrical conductivity, is incorporated as a filler to develop stretchable heat transfer eco‐materials. The optimized TCNR/h‐BN composite elongates to 140% due to great elasticity of NR, and exhibits excellent dielectric properties (a low dielectric constant of 2.26 and a low dielectric loss of 0.006). Furthermore, synergetic phonon transfer of phenylnaphthalene crystallites and h‐BN particles in the composite results in a high thermal conductivity of 0.87 W m−1 K−1. The outstanding thermal, mechanical, and dielectric properties of the newly developed TCNR/h‐BN composite enable the successful demonstration as stretchable and shape‐adaptable thermal management materials.
Integrated Structural Modulation Inducing Fast Charge Transfer in Aqueous Zinc‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Naresh Nibagani , Park Youngtae , Jeong Su Hwan , Lee Sang Jun , Lee Dong Park , Lee So Hyun , Ryu Gyeong Hee , Jung Young Hwa , Kim Joo‐Hyung
Published: September 2024

Aqueous Zn‐ion batteries (AZIBs) are promising energy‐storage devices owing to their exceptional safety, long cycle life, simple production, and high storage capacity. Manganese oxides are considered potential cathode materials for AZIBs, primarily because of their safety, low cost, simple synthesis, and high storage capacity. However, MnO2‐based cathodes tend to deteriorate structurally during long‐term cycling, which reduces their reversible capacity. In this study, an advanced α‐MnO2@SnO2 nanocomposite via facile hydrothermal synthesis is developed. The synergistic effects of lattice disorder and increased electron conductivity in the α‐MnO2@SnO2 nanocomposite mitigate structural degradation and enhance the overall electrochemical performance. The nanocomposite exhibits a high reversible capacity of 347 mAh g−1 at a current density of 100 mA g−1 after 50 cycles. Furthermore, it exhibits excellent rate performance and stable capacity even after 1000 cycles, maintaining a capacity of 78 mAh g−1 at a high current density of 5 A g−1. This excellent electrochemical performance is attributed to the reversible Zn intercalation in α‐MnO2@SnO2 nanocomposites due to the increased structural stability and fast ion/electron exchange caused by the distortion of the tunnel structure, on the basis of various ex situ experiments, density functional theory calculations, and electrochemical characterizations.
Engineering Conductive Hydrogels with Tissue‐like Properties: A 3D Bioprinting and Enzymatic Polymerization Approach
Authors: Li Changbai , Naeimipour Sajjad , Rasti Boroojeni Fatemeh , Abrahamsson Tobias , Strakosas Xenofon , Yi Yangpeiqi , Rilemark Rebecka , Lindholm Caroline , Perla Venkata K. , Musumeci Chiara , Li Yuyang , Biesmans Hanne , Savvakis Marios , Olsson Eva , Tybrandt Klas , Donahue Mary J. , Gerasimov Jennifer Y. , Selegård Robert , Berggren Magnus , Aili Daniel , Simon Daniel T.
Published: September 2024

Hydrogels are promising materials for medical devices interfacing with neural tissues due to their similar mechanical properties. Traditional hydrogel‐based bio‐interfaces lack sufficient electrical conductivity, relying on low ionic conductivity, which limits signal transduction distance. Conducting polymer hydrogels offer enhanced ionic and electronic conductivities and biocompatibility but often face challenges in processability and require aggressive polymerization methods. Herein, we demonstrate in situ enzymatic polymerization of π‐conjugated monomers in a hyaluronan (HA)‐based hydrogel bioink to create cell‐compatible, electrically conductive hydrogel structures. These structures were fabricated using 3D bioprinting of HA‐based bioinks loaded with conjugated monomers, followed by enzymatic polymerization via horseradish peroxidase. This process increased the hydrogels’ stiffness from about 0.6 to 1.5 kPa and modified their electroactivity. The components and polymerization process were well‐tolerated by human primary dermal fibroblasts and PC12 cells. This work presents a novel method to fabricate cytocompatible and conductive hydrogels suitable for bioprinting. These hybrid materials combine tissue‐like mechanical properties with mixed ionic and electronic conductivity, providing new ways to use electricity to influence cell behavior in a native‐like microenvironment.
Effects of spherical fillers reinforcement on the efficacy of thermal conductivity in epoxy and polyester matrices: Experimental validation and prediction using finite element method
Authors: Pradhan Priyabrat , Purohit Abhilash , Jena Hemalata , Singh Jayashree , Sahoo Bibhuti Bhusan
Published: September 2024

The creation of a theoretical heat conduction model for polymers embedded with spherical inclusions is described in this study. It also contains the experimental confirmation of the suggested correlation for utilizing the model to estimate the effective thermal conductivity (K) of such composites. According to ASTM‐E‐1530, composites are made with varying amounts of aluminium oxide and pine wood dust reinforced in polyester resin. The effective thermal conductivities (Keff) of the composites are then determined using the Unitherm TM model 2022. Ansys 19.R2 software is used to evaluate the effective thermal conductivity of these composites with a uniform filler distribution, while Digimat‐FE software is used determine the thermal conductivity values of such particle filled polymer composites with a random filler distribution. After comparison and validation with experimental data, these values are shown to be fairly good agreement with the theoretical values from the suggested correlation. The investigation is further expanded to determine the thermal conductivities for epoxy composites using wood apple shell dust and coir dust particle. Also epoxy and polyester composites reinforced with SiO2 and TiO2 have been investigated in the similar manner. The main thrust of this report to validate the numerical results of composites by varying numerous polymers. The thermal conductivity all the composites grow monotonically with increase in filler content. The thermal conductivity of silicon dioxide, titanium oxide, and aluminium oxide filled epoxy composites is measured as 1.5, 7, and 35 W/m‐K respectively.

Highlights

In this study spherical fillers are successfully used as a potential filler material in polyester composites

The thermal conductivity predicted by proposed mathematical model of polyester is validated with measured value and found better agreement.

The Ansys 19.R2 and digimat software are used to predict the thermal conductivity values of these composites.

The mathematical model is further used to predict thermal conductivity of epoxy composites to check the accuracy of the model.
Plastic litter is a part of the carbon cycle in an urban river: Microplastic and macroplastic accumulate with organic matter in floating debris rafts
Authors: Hoellein Timothy J. , Schwenk Bailey A. , Kazmierczak Elizabeth M. , Petersen Fritz
Published: September 2024

Watershed models of plastic export from rivers to oceans have large uncertainties, and improvements require direct measurements of riverine macroplastic (>5 mm) and microplastic (<5 mm). Also, plastic represents allochthonous carbon inputs to rivers but is rarely measured as carbon mass. We quantified plastic and organic matter within floating debris rafts and open water in an urban river. Macroplastics only occurred in debris rafts. Microplastics had higher concentrations in debris rafts relative to open water. Across sites, organic matter was positively correlated with microplastics and macroplastics. Last, carbon in plastic was 40% of the carbon mass in coarse particulate organic matter in debris rafts. Floating plastic litter accumulates with particulate organic matter in debris rafts. Plastic is an overlooked and ecological meaningful component of carbon standing stocks in urban rivers. Results will inform improved carbon budget calculation in rivers and watershed models of plastic export.

Practitioner Points

Plastic particles floating on the surface of an urban river accumulate in debris rafts compared to open water in terms of count and mass.

Abundance and composition of plastic particles in debris rafts were distinct from those in open water areas.

Plastic litter as units of carbon mass was in the same order of magnitude as carbon mass in course particulate organic matter.

Plastic litter moves in similar ways to naturally occurring organic particles and should be measured as a part of the riverine carbon cycle.
Conditions for Transformative Engaged Scholarship in Co-creation with Queer Refugees
Authors: Holle Fabian , Ponzoni Elena , Ghorashi Halleh
Published: September 2024

This chapter focuses on conditions for co-creative research with regard to experiences and diverse forms of knowledge that are silenced by stigmatizing, negative labelling and (subtle) kinds of exclusion. We reflect on three core conditions that emerged in LIMBO, a creative research collaboration between queer refugee community organizers and artists, the Amsterdam art institute Framer Framed and the Refugee Academy (expertise lab based at the Institute for Societal Resilience at VU Amsterdam). The research exemplifies what we mean by transformative academic engagement, as it goes beyond mere description and documentation and recognizes agency and creativity, while following the perspectives of marginalized communities as leaders in the process. The three pivotal conditions that emerged in the context of this co-creative research as underpinning the transformative process are creativity, holding space and the dynamic interplay of de/recentring.
Frame Reflection Lab: A Playful Tool to Reflect on Views of Science
Authors: Horn Annemarie , van der Meij Marjoleine G.
Published: September 2024

In this chapter, we present the Frame Reflection Lab (FRL) tool and show how it can be used in practice. We share insights from our own experiences to inform its use in various contexts, such as inter- and transdisciplinary research teams and education for inter- and transdisciplinary research. We hope to inspire and offer some guidance for those engaging in or facilitating inter- and transdisciplinary teamwork to implement FRL and similar approaches in their own context. We invite readers to adapt and use FRL in their own research and teaching, all materials are openly available online.
Accompanying Transformation-Oriented Research: Contributions, Relations and Methods
Authors: Schäpke Niko
Published: September 2024

Societal transformations, as fundamental change of socio-ecological and socio-technical systems towards more sustainability and justice, are high on scientific and political agendas. Transformational sustainability research seeks to understand and develop solutions to persistent problems of unsustainability. Examples include real-world and urban living labs, transition management or transdisciplinary case studies. These address problems in complex systems in future-oriented and participatory ways and catalyze learning and innovation integrating diverse forms of knowledge. Yet, transformation-oriented research faces various challenges with regard to knowledge production, process facilitation and decision-making. This chapter presents accompanying research—research that accompanies and researches others’ research—to effectively complement and support transformation-oriented research. First, possible contributions of accompanying research regarding knowledge production and process management are discerned and related methods and techniques are illustrated. Second, possibilities to shape relationships between accompanied and accompanying research are outlined and core balancing acts characterizing these relations discussed. Again, orientation is given to shape relations in practice. To map contributions and relationships, the chapter builds on expert knowledge and scholarly literature, synthesizing it with practical experiences including from accompanying several German real-world laboratories. Third, an in-depth case study of accompanying a long-running transdisciplinary experiment at UNFCCC climate change conferences, the Co-Creative Reflection and Dialogue Space, is reflected showing the value and challenges of accompanying research in practice.
Tracking induced pluripotent stem cell differentiation with a fluorescent genetically encoded epigenetic probe
Authors: Stepanov Afanasii I. , Shuvaeva Alexandra A. , Putlyaeva Lidia V. , Lukyanov Daniil K. , Galiakberova Adelya A. , Gorbachev Dmitry A. , Maltsev Dmitry I. , Pronina Valeriya , Dylov Dmitry V. , Terskikh Alexey V. , Lukyanov Konstantin A. , Gurskaya Nadya G.
Published: September 2024

Epigenetic modifications (methylation, acetylation, etc.) of core histones play a key role in regulation of gene expression. Thus, the epigenome changes strongly during various biological processes such as cell differentiation and dedifferentiation. Classical methods of analysis of epigenetic modifications such as mass-spectrometry and chromatin immuno-precipitation, work with fixed cells only. Here we present a genetically encoded fluorescent probe, MPP8-Green, for detecting H3K9me3, a histone modification associated with inactive chromatin. This probe, based on the chromodomain of MPP8, allows for visualization of H3K9me3 epigenetic landscapes in single living cells. We used this probe to track changes in H3K9me3 landscapes during the differentiation of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) into induced neurons. Our findings revealed two major waves of global H3K9me3 reorganization during 4-day differentiation, namely on the first and third days, whereas nearly no changes occurred on the second and fourth days. The proposed method LiveMIEL (Live-cell Microscopic Imaging of Epigenetic Landscapes), which combines genetically encoded epigenetic probes and machine learning approaches, enables classification of multiparametric epigenetic signatures of single cells during stem cell differentiation and potentially in other biological models.
Development of a high-throughput UHPLC-MS/MS method for the analysis of Fusarium and Alternaria toxins in cereals and cereal-based food
Authors: Dick Fabian , Dietz Alena , Asam Stefan , Rychlik Michael
Published: September 2024

A QuEChERS (quick, easy, cheap, effective, rugged, and safe)-based multi-mycotoxin method was developed, analyzing 24 (17 free and 7 modified) Alternaria and Fusarium toxins in cereals via ultrahigh-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS). A modified QuEChERS approach was optimized for sample preparation. Quantification was conducted using a combination of stable isotope dilution analysis (SIDA) for nine toxins and matrix-matched calibration for ten toxins. Quantification via a structurally similar internal standard was conducted for four analytes. Alternariol-9-sulfate (AOH-9-S) was measured qualitatively. Limits of detection (LODs) were between 0.004 µg/kg for enniatin A1 (ENN A1) and 3.16 µg/kg for nivalenol (NIV), while the limits of quantification were between 0.013 and 11.8 µg/kg, respectively. The method was successfully applied to analyze 136 cereals and cereal-based foods, including 28 cereal-based infant food products. The analyzed samples were frequently contaminated with Alternaria toxins, proving their ubiquitous occurrence. Interestingly, in many of those samples, some modified Alternaria toxins occurred, mainly alternariol-3-sulfate (AOH-3-S) and alternariol monomethyl ether-3-sulfate (AME-3-S), thus highlighting the importance of including modified mycotoxins in the routine analysis as they may significantly add to the total exposure of their parent toxins. Over 95% of the analyzed samples were contaminated with at least one toxin. Despite the general contamination, no maximum or indicative levels were exceeded.

Graphical Abstract
Rapid lateral flow test for Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex and non-tuberculous mycobacteria differentiation
Authors: Phunpae Ponrut , Thongkum Weeraya , Panyasit Wutthichai , Laopajon Witida , Takheaw Nuchjira , Pata Supansa , Yasamut Umpa , Kasinrerk Watchara , Tayapiwatana Chatchai
Published: September 2024

The diagnosis of mycobacterial infections, including both the Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTBC) and non-tuberculous mycobacteria (NTM), poses a significant global medical challenge. This study proposes a novel approach using immunochromatographic (IC) strip tests for the simultaneous detection of MTBC and NTM. Traditional methods for identifying mycobacteria, such as culture techniques, are hindered by delays in distinguishing between MTBC and NTM, which can affect patient care and disease control. Molecular methods, while sensitive, are resource-intensive and unable to differentiate between live and dead bacteria. In this research, we developed unique monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) against Ag85B, a mycobacterial secretory protein, and successfully implemented IC strip tests named 8B and 9B. These strips demonstrated high concordance rates with conventional methods for detecting MTBC, with positivity rates of 93.9% and 85.9%, respectively. For NTM detection, the IC strip tests achieved a 63.2% detection rate compared to culture methods, considering variations in growth rates among different NTM species. Furthermore, this study highlights a significant finding regarding the potential of MPT64 and Ag85B proteins as markers for MTBC detection. In conclusion, our breakthrough method enables rapid and accurate detection of both MTBC and NTM bacteria within the BACTEC MGIT system. This approach represents a valuable tool in clinical settings for distinguishing between MTBC and NTM infections, thereby enhancing the management and control of mycobacterial diseases.

Key points

• Panel of mAbs for differentiating MTB versus NTM

• IC strips for diagnosing MTBC and NTM after the BACTEC MGIT

• Combined detection of MTP64 and Ag85B enhances diagnostic accuracy
Field-grown lettuce production optimized through precision irrigation water management using soil moisture-based capacitance sensors and biodegradable soil mulching
Authors: Helmy Haytham S. , Abuarab Mohamed E. , Abdeldaym Emad A. , Abdelaziz Suzy M. , Abdelbaset Marwa M. , Dewedar Osama M. , Molina-Martinez José M. , El-Shafie Ahmed F. , Mokhtar Ali
Published: September 2024

Scientists, environmentalists, and farmers are currently in pursuit of sustainable agricultural practices that can effectively ensure global food security while simultaneously mitigating environmental degradation. A field experiment was conducted to elucidate the impact of low-cost capacitance soil moisture-based sensors on lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) irrigation water conservation, agro-physiological aspects, and nutritional characteristics. The experiment also involved the use of five different types of soil mulching films: white geotextile (WGup), green geotextile (GGup), black plastic (BPup), white geotextile for both above and below ground (WGup-down), green geotextile for both above and below ground (GGup-down), in addition to un-mulched soil (control). The findings demonstrated that the application of WGup, BPup, WGup&down, and GGup&down resulted in a significant improvement in irrigation water conservation, with WGup exhibiting the highest savings at 41.86%, while the control group exhibited the least amount of water savings at 19.87%. Moreover, the highest productivity levels were observed in plants mulched with GGup&down, reaching 47,944.68 kg ha−1, whereas the lowest productivity was recorded in plants mulched with green geotextile GGup at 22,377.89 kg ha−1. In terms of irrigation water productivity (IWP), the order of effectiveness was BPup > GGup-down > WGup > WGup-down > GGup > Control, with BPup achieving the highest IWP at 60.19 kg m−3 and the control treatment reporting the lowest at 27.80 kg m−3. The percentage of the irrigation water applied for crop evapotranspiration (Irc) showed that the control treatment saved the least amount of irrigation water, saving only 19.87%, while the best treatment was WGup, achieved the highest percentage of irrigation water savings at 41.86%. Additionally, mulched plants exhibited higher levels of nutrients (N, P, Ca, Mg, Fe, Mn, and Zn), ascorbic acid (AsA), and total phenol content (TPC), while showing lower nitrate content in the leaves compared to non-mulched plants. Overall, the utilization of soil moisture-based capacitance sensors and biodegradable mulching films has proven to be highly effective and low cost by 16.633 US$ year−1 to enhance irrigation water productivity, growth performance, nutritional quality, and overall productivity of lettuce crops, thereby contributing to the sustainability of lettuce production in arid regions.
Error-induced extinction in a multi-type critical birth–death process
Authors: Guasch Meritxell Brunet , Krapivsky P. L. , Antal Tibor
Published: September 2024

Extreme mutation rates in microbes and cancer cells can result in error-induced extinction (EEX), where every descendant cell eventually acquires a lethal mutation. In this work, we investigate critical birth–death processes with n distinct types as a birth–death model of EEX in a growing population. Each type-i cell divides independently $$(i)\rightarrow (i)+(i)$$

(
i
)
→
(
i
)
+
(
i
)

or mutates $$(i)\rightarrow (i+1)$$

(
i
)
→
(
i
+
1
)

at the same rate. The total number of cells grows exponentially as a Yule process until a cell of type-n appears, which cell type can only divide or die at rate one. This makes the whole process critical and hence after the exponentially growing phase eventually all cells die with probability one. We present large-time asymptotic results for the general n-type critical birth–death process. We find that the mass function of the number of cells of type-k has algebraic and stationary tail $$(\text {size})^{-1-\chi _k}$$

(
size
)

-
1
-

χ
k

, with $$\chi _k=2^{1-k}$$

χ
k

=

2

1
-
k

, for $$k=2,\dots ,n$$

k
=
2
,
⋯
,
n

, in sharp contrast to the exponential tail of the first type. The same exponents describe the tail of the asymptotic survival probability $$(\text {time})^{-\xi _k}$$

(
time
)

-

ξ
k

. We present applications of the results for studying extinction due to intolerable mutation rates in biological populations.
Charakteristika von Antragstellenden bei erstmaliger Feststellung einer Pflegebedürftigkeit – eine bundesweite Analyse von Pflegebegutachtungen von AOK-Versicherten ab 60 Jahren
Authors: Haeger Christine , Baldenius Till , Schnitzer Susanne , Jürchott Kathrin , Kuhlmey Adelheid , Blüher Stefan , Schwinger Antje
Published: September 2024

Hintergrund

Die steigende Zahl Pflegebedürftiger erfordert präventive Ansätze, um Pflegebedürftigkeit zu verhindern oder Selbstständigkeitsverluste zu reduzieren. Die Pflegebegutachtung kann wertvolle Hinweise dazu liefern.

Ziel der Arbeit

Das Ziel dieses Beitrags ist es, soziodemografische Merkmale von Personen mit festgestellter Pflegebedürftigkeit zu beschreiben, sowie eine differenzierte Betrachtung der erstgenannten pflegebegründenden Diagnosen nach Alter, Geschlecht, Pflegegrad (PG) und Bundesland.

Material und Methoden

Als Datengrundlage dient ein bundesweiter Datensatz der Pflegebegutachtungen des Medizinischen Dienstes (MD) von AOK-Versicherten ab 60 Jahren, die im Jahr 2021 erstmalig einen PG erhielten. Pflegerelevante Informationen werden deskriptiv ausgewertet.

Ergebnisse

339.486 Personen mit einem Durchschnittsalter von 79,6 Jahren (± 8,4), davon 59,0 % Frauen, wurden analysiert. Etwa die Hälfte erhielt den PG 2, 32,4 % den PG 1. PG 3–5 wurden seltener begutachtet (16,2 % vs. 4,8 % vs. 1,7 %). Alleinlebende waren öfter in niedrigeren PG vertreten, und es zeigte sich ein überproportionaler Anteil aus den neuen Bundesländern. Die Top‑3 der erstgenannten pflegebegründenden Diagnosen waren Senilität (R54), Polyarthrose (M15) und Demenz (F03), wobei, stratifiziert nach Bundesländern, große Unterschiede zu erkennen sind (ICD-10 R-Kapitel 0,8 % Berlin und Brandenburg vs. 37,9 % Sachsen; M‑Kapitel: 13,6 % Bayern und Hamburg vs. 39,9 % Mecklenburg-Vorpommern).

Diskussion

Soziale Determinanten wie Alter, Geschlecht, Alleinleben und Region können bei der Einstufung in einen PG eine Rolle spielen. Auffällig sind große Unterschiede bei den erstgenannten pflegebegründenden Diagnosen zwischen den Bundesländern, was in zukünftiger Forschung genauer untersucht werden sollte.
Perioperative outcome of left atrial appendage amputation in coronary artery bypass grafting
Authors: Gerçek Mustafa , Skuljevic Tomislav , Börgermann Jochen , Gummert Jan , Gerçek Muhammed
Published: September 2024

Background

Left atrial appendage (LAA) amputation performed alongside cardiac surgery has become an increasingly established procedure to reduce stroke risk in patients with atrial fibrillation. As the recommendation levels for LAA amputation continue to rise, ample evidence assessing its perioperative safety and risk factors is of utmost interest.

Methods

All patients who underwent isolated coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) between 2018 and 2021 at two high-volume centers were retrospectively included in the study. Patients were divided into two groups—the CABG and CABG + LAA groups—based on whether they underwent concomitant LAA amputation. Propensity score matching (PS matching) was applied to ensure comparability between the groups. The primary endpoint was defined as a composite outcome comprising of all-cause mortality, stroke, and reoperation. Secondary endpoints included the components of the primary endpoint, perioperative outcome parameters, transfusion rates, and laboratory parameters.

Results

A total of 3904 patients were included with 3038 and 866 in the CABG and CABG + LAA group, respectively. After PS matching each group consisted of 856 patients. The primary endpoint showed no significant differences between the CABG and CABG + LAA group (7.0% vs. 6.5% (OR 0.9 95% CI [0.64; 1.35], p = 0.70)). Similarly, there were no notable differences in the individual components of the composite endpoint: all-cause mortality (p = 0.84), stroke (p = 0.74), and reoperation (p = 0.50). Subgroup results did not show any relevant dissimilarity.

Conclusion

The concomitant performance of LAA amputation is not associated with worse in-hospital outcomes, as measured by the composite endpoint of all-cause mortality, stroke, and reoperation.

Graphical abstract

Perioperative outcome of left atrial appendage amputation in coronary artery bypass grafting. 95% CI, 95% confidence intervals; CABG, coronary artery bypass grafting; EF, left ventricular ejection fraction; LAA, left atrial appendage amputation; OR, odds ratio
The contribution of white matter changes to clinical phenotype in progressive supranuclear palsy
Authors: Tepedino Maria Francesca , Diana Francesco , Abate Filomena , Avallone Anna Rosa , Caterino Miriam , Erro Roberto , Pellecchia Maria Teresa , Manara Renzo , Barone Paolo , Picillo Marina
Published: September 2024

White matter hyperintensities (WMH) are considered magnetic brain imaging (MRI) biomarkers of cerebral small vessel disease but their clinical role in neurodegenerative-related disorders is poorly understood. This study describes the distribution of WMH on brain MRI in Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP) in comparison with Parkinson’s disease (PD) and explores their possible impact on disease’s features. Sixty PSP and 33 PD patients were included. Motor symptoms, cardiovascular risk factors and the age-related white matter changes (ARWMC) score was computed to rate WMH for both groups. Pearson’s correlation and linear or logistic regression analysis were used to check for relationships between ARWMC and PSP clinical scores. The mean (standard deviation) ARWMC total score in the PSP cohort was 4.66 (3.25). Any degree of WMH was present in 68% of PSP (ARWMC +). Compared to ARWMC-, ARWMC + did not have greater disease severity or more cardiovascular risk factors. WMH were frequently localized in fronto-parietal lobes and were mild in severity. Linear regression analysis showed that ARWMC total score was related to the PSP-rating scale, irrespective of age, disease duration and the Charlson modified comorbidity index. Logistic regression analysis confirmed that ARWMC total score was related to the use of wheelchair, irrespective of above-mentioned covariates. Vascular risk factors as well as severity and distribution of WMH did not have an impact on the PSP phenotype. No differences were found with PD patients. Our results suggest that WMH in PSP might be markers of neurodegenerative-related pathology rather than being simple expression of atherosclerotic cerebrovascular changes.
Connected k-Center and k-Diameter Clustering
Authors: Drexler Lukas , Eube Jan , Luo Kelin , Reineccius Dorian , Röglin Heiko , Schmidt Melanie , Wargalla Julian
Published: September 2024

Motivated by an application from geodesy, we study the connected k-center problem and the connected k-diameter problem. The former problem has been introduced by Ge et al. (ACM Trans Knowl Discov Data 2(2):1–35, 2008. https://doi.org/10.1145/1376815.1376816) to model clustering of data sets with both attribute and relationship data. These problems arise from the classical k-center and k-diameter problems by adding a side constraint. For the side constraint, we are given an undirected connectivity graphG on the input points, and a clustering is now only feasible if every cluster induces a connected subgraph in G. Usually in clustering problems one assumes that the clusters are pairwise disjoint. We study this case but additionally also the case that clusters are allowed to be non-disjoint. This can help to satisfy the connectivity constraints. Our main result is an $$O(\log ^2k)$$

O
(

log
2

k
)

-approximation algorithm for the disjoint connected k-center and k-diameter problem. For Euclidean spaces of constant dimension and for metrics with constant doubling dimension, the approximation factor improves to O(1). Our algorithm works by computing a non-disjoint connected clustering first and transforming it into a disjoint connected clustering. We complement these upper bounds by several upper and lower bounds for variations and special cases of the model.
Deformation twinning as a displacive transformation: computational aspects of the phase-field model coupled with crystal plasticity
Authors: Sadowski Przemysław , Rezaee-Hajidehi Mohsen , Stupkiewicz Stanisław
Published: September 2024

Spatially-resolved modeling of deformation twinning and its interaction with plastic slip is achieved by coupling the phase-field method and crystal plasticity theory. The intricate constitutive relations arising from this coupling render the resulting computational model prone to inefficiencies and lack of robustness. Accordingly, together with the inherent limitations of the phase-field method, these factors may impede the broad applicability of the model. In this paper, our recent phase-field model of coupled twinning and crystal plasticity is the subject of study. We delve into the incremental formulation and computational treatment of the model and run a thorough investigation into its computational performance. We focus specifically on evaluating the efficiency of the finite-element discretization employing various element types, and we examine the impact of mesh density. Since the micromorphic regularization is an important part of the finite-element implementation, the effect of the micromorphic regularization parameter is also studied.
Tumor markers in non-small cell lung cancer spine metastasis: an assessment of prognosis and overall survival
Authors: Foresi Brian , Shah Aakash , Meade Seth , Krishnaney Ajit
Published: September 2024

Purpose

The identification of gene mutations in the modern medical workup of metastatic spine tumors has become more common but has not been highly utilized in surgical planning. Potential utility of these genetic markers as surrogates for cancer behavior in current prognosis scoring systems and overall survival (OS) remains underexplored in existing literature. This study seeks to investigate the association of frequently identified tumor markers, EGFR, ALK, and PD-L1, in metastatic non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) to the spine with Tokuhashi prognosis scoring and OS.

Methods

Patients with NSCLC metastasis to spine were identified through chart review. EGFR, ALK, and PD-L1 wild type vs. mutant type were identified from targeted chemotherapy genetic testing. Multiple linear regression was performed to assess gene profile contributions to Tokuhashi score. Cox Proportional Hazards models were generated for each tumor marker to assess the relationship between each marker and OS.

Results

A total of 119 patients with NSCLC spine metastasis were identified. We employed a multiple linear regression analysis to investigate the influence of EGFR, ALK, and PD-L1 genotypes on the Tokuhashi score, revealing statistically significant relationships overall (p = 0.002). Individual genotype contributions include EGFR as a non-significant contributor (p = 0.269) and ALK and PD-L1 as significant contributors (p = 0.037 and p = 0.001 respectively). Overall survival was not significantly associated with tumor marker profiles through Kaplan-Meier analysis (p = 0.46) or by multivariable analysis (p = 0.108).

Conclusion

ALK and PD-L1 were significantly associated with Tokuhashi score while EGFR was not. Tumor markers alone were not predictive of OS. These findings indicate that genetic markers found in NSCLC metastases to the spine may demonstrate prognostic value. Therefore, employing standard tumor markers could enhance the identification of appropriate surgical candidates, although they demonstrate limited effectiveness in predicting overall survival.
How the Resist-Accept-Direct framework is being used by communities for socio-economic climate adaptation: a case study in Australia’s Murray-Darling Basin
Authors: Olsson Ruby C. , Wyborn Carina A. , van Kerkhoff Lorrae E.
Published: September 2024

Globally, water governance struggles to reconcile increased demands on water resources with climate change–induced reductions in supply, making climate adaptation in water governance a pressing concern. The Resist-Accept-Direct (RAD) framework has emerged as a climate adaptation tool designed to help make adaptation decisions. However, there is limited understanding of social and political factors, which are critical in driving RAD decisions. This paper explores how communities are employing RAD to make climate adaptation decisions, using a case study of the Goulburn-Murray Resilience Strategy (the Strategy); a community-led strategy that uses a version of the RAD framework to build regional resilience in the Goulburn-Murray Irrigation District (GMID) in Australia’s Murray-Darling Basin (MDB). The Strategy focuses on building socio-economic, rather than ecological, resilience, making this research a valuable contribution to RAD literature. To apply the RAD framework to socio-economic adaptation, we adapted the framework to include IPCC language around incremental, transformational, planned, and autonomous adaptation. With the GMID considered a leader of resilience thinking in Australia, the Strategy may help decision-makers address water overallocation and contested governance in the MDB, and provide lessons for water governance globally. Data analysed from 20 semi-structured interviews with people involved with the Strategy revealed two main findings: (1) Communities and governments prioritise different actions under the RAD framework. Governments, particularly at the state level, preference incremental planned adaptation to maintain the status quo (resist), over incremental autonomous adaptation to changing conditions (accept), and transformational planned adaptation at various scales (direct). (2) Community and government actors perceive that factors driving governments’ preference for incremental-resist adaptation include electoral short-termism, linear planning, and conservative government culture.
Effect of bedrock, tree size and time on growth and climate sensitivity of Norway spruce in the High Tatras
Authors: Basnet Saroj , Burger Andreas , Homolová Zuzana , Märker Frederik , Trouillier Mario , Wilmking Martin
Published: September 2024

Tree growth is a multifaceted process influenced by various factors at different spatial and temporal scales, including intrinsic tree traits and environmental conditions. Climate factors have a significant impact on tree growth dynamics, while geological controls can also play a crucial role. However, our understanding of the interplay between these factors concerning tree growth is currently limited. This study focuses on Norway spruce (Picea abies [L.] Karst.), one of the economically most important coniferous tree species in Europe, to investigate the interplay of growth, climate, and environment at the forest and corresponding treeline sites in the High Tatra Mountains of Slovakia. Specifically, we developed chronologies of tree-ring width (TRW) and late-wood density (MXD) for different tree size classes across two limestone and granitic sites. Growth rates of Norway spruce trees have been increasing in forests since the 1930s and from the 1950s at treelines. Growth rates were consistently higher on limestone bedrock compared to granitic bedrock conditions. Variability of radial growth is primarily driven by climate at both geological settings with trees on granitic bedrock displaying more pronounced responses to climatic variables. We observed weakening (non-stationarity) in climate signals over time and across all size classes in both geological settings. The magnitude of these effects is small, but varies across size classes, with larger trees generally displaying stronger climate sensitivities compared to smaller ones. Therefore, our findings accentuate the potential implications of geological settings, climate, and environmental factors on the absolute growth and growth dynamics of Norway spruce, highlighting the need for further research to fully understand and manage forest ecosystems in mountainous regions.
Evaluation of confectionary sunflower germplasm accessions and their derived hybrids
Authors: Latif Abdul , Rauf Saeed , Nazish Maham , Ortiz Rodomiro
Published: September 2024

Confectionary sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) has gained popularity due to its utilization in roasting as snacks, poultry, bird food, and bakery products. However, seed quality of confectionary sunflower differs from non-oil seed types. In the present study, 71 sunflower accessions were selected for the evaluation of seed quality traits. Significant genetic variability was observed for traits such as 100-seed mass and seed length, as indicated by high genotypic coefficients of variability. Genotypic correlation analysis revealed a positive association between 100-seed mass and seed size, protein content, and oleic acid content. Path coefficient analysis based on genotypic and phenotypic correlations suggested that accessions with high sugar content may be selected to develop superior germplasm for confectionary products. Biplot analysis was conducted to identify suitable accessions with favorable confectionary traits. Accessions ‘Hybrid 100’, ‘GOR101’, and ‘Odesskijj112’ exhibited high sugar content, while ‘Yawn’ demonstrated comparatively higher oleic acid content. Accessions ‘Vinimik 6931’ and ‘HA 305’ displayed high 100-seed mass, while seed length was greater in accessions ‘Comet’ and H. × multiflorous. Combining ability analysis were performed to assess the breeding value of accessions. ‘Comet’ exhibited the highest general combining ability (GCA) effects for seed yield per plant, head diameter and 100-achene mass; while ‘G.OR.104’ had positive GCA for achene yield per plant but negative combining ability for other traits. ‘Tenissiei’ displayed positive GCA for all traits. Among the testers, accession ‘Universal’ showed positive GCA for seed yield per plant, while ‘HA-292’ exhibited positive GCA for head diameter. The accessions with higher values for confectionary traits and positive general combining ability effects for yield related traits may be further exploited in confectionary sunflower breeding programs as parents.
Developing Surveys on Questionable Research Practices: Four Challenging Design Problems
Authors: Berggren Christian , Gerdin Bengt , Karabag Solmaz Filiz
Published: September 2024

The exposure of scientific scandals and the increase of dubious research practices have generated a stream of studies on Questionable Research Practices (QRPs), such as failure to acknowledge co-authors, selective presentation of findings, or removal of data not supporting desired outcomes. In contrast to high-profile fraud cases, QRPs can be investigated using quantitative, survey-based methods. However, several design issues remain to be solved. This paper starts with a review of four problems in the QRP research: the problem of precision and prevalence, the problem of social desirability bias, the problem of incomplete coverage, and the problem of controversiality, sensitivity and missing responses. Various ways to handle these problems are discussed based on a case study of the design of a large, cross-field QRP survey in the social and medical sciences in Sweden. The paper describes the key steps in the design process, including technical and cognitive testing and repeated test versions to arrive at reliable survey items on the prevalence of QRPs and hypothesized associated factors in the organizational and normative environments. Partial solutions to the four problems are assessed, unresolved issues are discussed, and tradeoffs that resist simple solutions are articulated. The paper ends with a call for systematic comparisons of survey designs and item quality to build a much-needed cumulative knowledge trajectory in the field of integrity studies.
Interaction of an anticancer oxygenated propenylbenzene derivatives with human topoisomerase II α and actin: molecular modeling and isothermal titration calorimetry studies
Authors: Grzelczyk Joanna , Pérez-Sánchez Horacio , Nelen Jochem , Carmena-Bargueño Miguel , Gałązka-Czarnecka Ilona , Budryn Grażyna , Hernik Dawid , Brenna Elisabetta , Boratyński Filip
Published: September 2024

Cancer diseases are one of the most common causes of death. It is important to reduce the proliferation of cancer cells at an early stage, but also to limit their migration. There is a need to find new compounds of moderate anticancer prevention activity for long administration. TOPIIα and actin are proteins that in states of inflammation can cause the progression of cancer and neoblastic cell migrations. Looking for compounds that will work comprehensively in preventing cancer, interacting with both TOPIIα and actin is crucial/was our aim. In this study, the antioxidant properties of propenylbenzene derivatives and their affinity to bind actin and TOPIIα causing inhibition of their functions were evaluated. The ligand–protein binding assay was carried out by isometric titration calorimetry (ITC), and molecular docking, and the antioxidant potential. The highest chelation activity was shown by 5b: 83.95% (FRAP 18.39 μmol Fe(II) mL−1). High affinity for actin and TOPIIα using ITC and docking was shown by diol forms. For actin the best ligands were 2b (∆H − 51.49 kJ mol−1, ∆G − 27.37 kJ mol−1) and 5b (∆H − 17.25 kJ mol−1, ∆G − 26.20 kJ mol−1), whereas for TOPIIα: 3b (∆H − 163.86 kJ mol−1, ∆G − 34.60 kJ mol−1) and 5b (∆H − 160.93 kJ mol−1, ∆G − 32.92 kJ mol−1). To confirm the occurrence of the interactions at the active site of the proteins, molecular docking and subsequent molecular dynamics simulations were performed, which showed for both actin and TOPIIα the highest enthalpy of interactions of 5b: − 34.94 kJ mol−1 and − 25.52 kJ mol−1, respectively.
A novel eco-friendly approach of combining vermicompost and effective microorganisms sustains wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) drought tolerance by modulating photosynthetic performance and nutrient acquisition
Authors: Talaat Neveen B. , Abdel-Salam Sameh A. M.
Published: September 2024

The most significant threat to global food security is water scarcity. Despite the fact that vermicompost (an effective organic fertilizer rich in humic substances, macro- and micro-nutrients, earthworm excretions, beneficial soil microbes, plant growth hormones, enzymes) and effective microorganisms (EM; photosynthetic bacteria, lactic acid bacteria, yeasts, actinomycetes, fermenting fungi) have been recognized as powerful strategies for alleviating environmental stresses, their combined effect has not been studied. Herein, as a first investigation, we aimed to enhance wheat’s drought tolerance using an eco-friendly approach that combined vermicompost and EM. The study employed twelve treatments in a completely randomized design. The treatments included control, as well as single and combined applications of vermicompost and EM at three different irrigation levels (100%, 70%, and 30% of field capacity). Vermicompost and EM, applied singly or in combination, ameliorated drought-induced reduction in wheat growth and productivity by elevating photosynthetic pigment content, photochemical processes, Calvin cycle enzyme activity, net photosynthetic rate, transpiration rate, stomatal conductance, maximum quantum efficiency of PSII photochemistry, actual photochemical efficiency of PSII, electron transport rate, photochemical quenching coefficient, and effective quantum yield of PSII photochemistry. Additionally, adding vermicompost and/or EM improved wheat drought tolerance by increasing nutrient (nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, iron, zinc, copper) acquisition, roots’ ATP content, H+-pump activity, and membrane stability index while lowering hydrogen peroxide content, lipid peroxidation, and electrolyte leakage. The new evidence demonstrates that combining vermicompost with EM sustains wheat drought tolerance by regulating photosynthetic efficiency, nutrient acquisition, root H+-pump activity, and membrane stability. Overall, utilizing vermicompost/EM is a novel approach to improving plant physiological responses and overcoming drought-related challenges.
Improving asset confiscation: in the quest for effective and just solutions
Authors: Hryniewicz-Lach Elżbieta
Published: September 2024

The quest for effectiveness in criminal law results in creating non-punitive sanctions based on evidentiary facilities and lowered standard of proof. European courts, while focusing on procedural safeguards, perceive the structure of criminal sanctions as an element of national penal policy and leave it to the national authorities. The latter may, however, be ready to sacrifice certain important aspects of criminal law, like judicial discretion or individual guarantees, for the sake of unspecified ‘effectiveness of legal regulations’. In case of asset confiscation such approach can result in forfeiture of significant quantities of property without the certainty that it actually comes from a crime. Therefore, it seems necessary to identify the framework of criminal law principles applicable to non-punitive sanctions, in order to receive – while interpreting legal provisions – an effect that is not only a (presumably) effective, but also a just solution. This paper contributes to this issue with particular emphasis on extended form(s) of asset confiscation.