bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Current attitudes to testicular prosthesis insertion during radical orchidectomy—An international perspective
Authors: Emmanuel Anthony , Kanthabalan Abi , Alexander Cameron , Bhatt Nikita , Chan Vinson , Kalejaiye Odunayo , Narahari Krishna , Kasivisvanathan Veeru , Shabbir Majed
Published: November 2024

Objectives

This study aimed to assess current international clinician practices, attitudes and barriers related to testicular prosthesis implantation in patients with testicular cancer at the time of radical inguinal orchidectomy.

Methods

An international online survey of urologists who perform radical orchidectomy for testicular cancer was developed. The recruitment process used social media and the emailing lists of national urological societies. Responses were collected between 10 February 2021 and 31 May 2021. The primary outcome was the proportion of urologists who always offered testicular prosthesis implantation to patients undergoing radical orchidectomy. Secondary outcomes included the reasons for not offering testicular prosthesis implantation.

Results

A total of 393 respondents took part in the online survey; of these, the majority were from the UK (66%), with the remaining international respondents (34%) from six different continents. Urologists (53%) reported they always offer testicular prosthesis implantation. Of those that offered testicular prosthesis implantation, 28% did so as a secondary procedure after radical orchidectomy, rather than the time of radical orchidectomy (72%). The most frequently selected reasons for not offering testicular prosthesis implantation included concerns about delaying chemotherapy (41%), infection (33%), impaired cosmesis (17%) and lack of availability (17%).

Conclusion

Despite evidence confirming the safety and the psychological benefit of testicular prosthesis implantation during radical orchidectomy, current international practice suggests just over half of urologists always offer this to their patients. Increased clinician awareness of the low risk of complications and high patient satisfaction may act to reduce the perceived barriers in offering testicular prosthesis implantation.
High‐Pressure Reactor Technology for Aerated Biotransformations
Authors: Niehaus Daniel , Lyberis Anastasios , Houssaini Selma Iraqi , Perçin Zeynep , Liebsch Gregor , Bubenheim Paul , Hoffmann Marko , Liese Andreas , Schlüter Michael
Published: November 2024

Utilizing pressure as a process parameter can make biotechnological processes more efficient and attractive compared to established ones. This paper presents a high‐pressure reactor setup for enzymatically catalyzed gas–liquid reactions, which can be operated up to 15.0 MPa. The reactor is equipped with optical measurement technology for inline and in situ monitoring of the oxygen concentration under high‐pressure conditions. The setup is characterized by assessing the influence of the process parameter pressure on the conversion of the glucose oxidation to d‐glucono‐δ‐lactone by immobilized glucose oxidase. The study demonstrates that the increased oxygen availability due to higher solubility reduces the reaction time in a batch reactor from 270 to 90 min.
Impact of Dihedral Angle in Conjugated Organic Cation on the Structures and Properties of Organic‐Inorganic Lead Iodides
Authors: Chandra Patra Bidhan , Wan Ruichen , Moore Curtis E. , Wu Yiying
Published: November 2024

Conjugated organic cations are intriguing for organic‐inorganic halide perovskites due to their direct participation in the optoelectronic properties of hybrid materials. In conjugated cations, the dihedral angle, or torsion angle, between adjacent aromatic rings is a critical secondary structural element. This angle influences not only the shape of the cations but also the overlap between the π‐orbitals on adjacent rings, thereby affecting their electronic properties. Understanding how variations in the dihedral angle impact the structure and properties of hybrid organic‐inorganic metal halides (HOIMHs) is fundamentally important. In this study, we utilized 2,2′‐dimethyl bipyridinium as the organic cation, reacting it with PbI₂ to form hybrid lead iodides. Remarkably, variations in the dihedral angle between the two pyridinium rings resulted in the formation of two distinct crystal structures with different band gaps. Our findings demonstrate that manipulating the dihedral angle offers a novel approach to controlling the structures and properties of hybrid metal halides with conjugated cations.
A 0.7‐V 7.4‐nW 6.4‐ppm/°C CMOS Subthreshold Voltage Reference With Temperature Compensation Circuit
Authors: Liu Jingjing , Huang Yuxuan , Wang Yuchen , Guan Jian , Li Zhipeng
Published: November 2024

This paper proposes a nanowatt voltage reference (VR) with temperature coefficient compensation. All transistors work in the subthreshold region. The complementary‐to‐absolute‐temperature (CTAT) voltage and proportional‐to‐absolute‐temperature (PTAT) voltage are mainly generated by two NMOS transistors with different threshold voltages. At the same time, a simple temperature compensation circuit is designed to optimize the temperature coefficient at high temperatures, so that the proposed VR circuit can generate a reference voltage with a wider temperature range and a lower temperature coefficient. The proposed VR circuit is implemented using a standard 0.18‐μm CMOS process with an active area of only 0.022 mm2. The postlayout simulation results show that the proposed VR circuit generates a reference voltage of 308.21 mV at room temperature. Its temperature coefficient is 6.4 ppm/°C over a temperature range of −40°C°C–140°C, with a power consumption of 7.4 nW. The voltage line sensitivity (LS) is 0.098%/V, and the power supply ripple rejection (PSRR) is −72 dB @DC and −42 dB @10 MHz.
Evidence for subsidence rate variation in the Newark Basin and its influence on the deposition of fluvial sediments of the Stockton Formation
Authors: Alexander Jane L. , Thatcher Sean T. , Tobon Jay , Rivelli Victoria
Published: November 2024

The Stockton Formation of the Newark Basin represents an exciting time in Earth history during the early stages of rifting of the North Atlantic, with rapid subsidence and sediment deposition. Much of the previous work on this formation has been done using drill cores, with development limiting surface exposure. While this allows us to build a full stratigraphic sequence of deposition, it has the potential to miss smaller‐scale variability and sedimentary structures. It is also difficult to understand the three‐dimensional geometries, architecture and relationships between the depositional elements from drill core alone. An outcrop in North Bergen, NJ that was recently exposed during construction provided an opportunity to study the primary and secondary sedimentary structures of a previously hidden part of the Stockton Formation. These sediments and structures were investigated in the field and laboratory, with geochemical data assisting in the interpretation of their origin and history. Despite its small size, this outcrop provides strong evidence for varying rates of basin subsidence, with rocks deposited during more rapid subsidence also showing secondary structures associated with major earthquakes. Rapid subsidence during fluvial deposition resulted in the preservation of more fine‐grained, lower‐porosity sediments. Recently the Newark Basin has been identified as having characteristics that are favourable for CO2 storage, however, a detailed understanding of sedimentary lithologies is essential to assessing that potential. If these periods of rapid subsidence have similar lithological consequences basin‐wide, this could potentially impact the capacity for carbon sequestration, by reducing porosity and permeability in many areas, and potentially creating barriers to flow.
Leveraging traits for insight into the fungal ecology of burned ecosystems
Authors: Hopkins Jacob R. , Bennett Alison E.
Published: November 2024

Fungi play key roles in the fire‐fuel feedbacks that structure ~40% of the Earth's terrestrial ecosystems, yet a general understanding of fungal responses to fire is lacking. While fire and associated stressor effects on fungi vary based on fire regime components like severity, intensity, and frequency, their influence on fungi can be categorized into three primary phases based on when they influence fungi: during fire, early post‐fire, and later post‐fire. We first identify key fire‐associated phenomic traits and similarities in fungal responses to fire across time. Then, we synthesize this information by linking fire effects to specific fungal traits and response groups to produce trait profiles useful for classifying pyrophilic fungi. The goal of this review is to consolidate fire‐associated phenomic trait data into trait profiles that can be used in combination with fungal genomic data and associated methodologies. These profiles produce an invaluable framework for understanding fungal roles in fire regimes and identify previously unknown trends in fungal responses to fire and associated stressors including heat shock responses, pigmentation, and dispersal into and out of burned environments.
Mesenchymal precursor cells reduce mortality and major morbidity in ischaemic heart failure with inflammation: DREAM‐HF
Authors: Perin Emerson C. , Borow Kenneth M. , Henry Timothy D. , Jenkins Margaret , Rutman Olga , Hayes Jack , James Christopher W. , Rose Eric , Skali Hicham , Itescu Silviu , Greenberg Barry
Published: November 2024

Aims

Progressive heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) is adversely affected by alterations in the myocardial balance between bone marrow‐derived pro‐inflammatory cardiac macrophages and embryo‐derived reparative cardiac resident macrophages. Mesenchymal precursor cells (MPCs) may restore this balance and improve clinical outcomes when inflammation is present. The purpose was to (i) identify risk factors for cardiovascular death (CVD) in control patients with HFrEF in the DREAM‐HF trial, and (ii) determine if MPCs improve major clinical outcomes (CVD, myocardial infarction [MI], stroke) in high‐risk patients with ischaemic HFrEF and inflammation.

Methods and results

Cause‐specific regression analyses were used to identify CVD risk factors in DREAM‐HF control patients. Aalen–Johansen cumulative incidence curves were used to examine CVD, 2‐point major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) (MI or stroke), and 3‐point MACE (CVD or MI or stroke) by treatment group in ischaemic vs non‐ischaemic HFrEF and in patients with or without baseline inflammation. In control DREAM‐HF patients, factors portending the greatest risk for CVD were inflammation (baseline plasma high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein ≥2 mg/L; p = 0.003) and ischaemic HFrEF aetiology (p = 0.097), with increased CVD risk of 61% and 38%, respectively. Over 30‐month mean follow‐up, MPCs reduced 2‐point and 3‐point MACE by 88% (p = 0.005) and 52% (p = 0.018), respectively, in patients with ischaemic HFrEF and inflammation compared to controls.

Conclusion

Ischaemic aetiology and inflammation were identified as major risk factors for MACE in control DREAM‐HF patients. A single intramyocardial MPC administration produced the most significant, sustained reduction in 2‐point and 3‐point MACE in patients with ischaemic HFrEF and inflammation.
Hollaender award 2023: Adventures in applied genetic toxicology
Authors: Elespuru Rosalie K.
Published: November 2024

This work describes career “adventures” into applied research in environmental mutagenesis. Surprising and interesting results, as well as publications in Nature and Science, may counter an assumption that applied research is not as exciting or impactful as basic research. The narrative is described in terms of “mentors,” whose advice had a lasting impact and resonated in many ways. Adventures included forays into nitrosamine mutagenicity, nanomaterial assessment, photoactivated DNA damaging agents, p53 gene mutagenicity, germ cell mutagenic risk, bacterial mutagenicity assays, genotoxicity of cell phone radiation, Covid diagnostic PCR assays, personalized cancer prevention, and >25 years in regulatory safety assessment at FDA. FDA work included review of genotoxicity data, experiments in the lab, international standards generation, and collaboration with others to foster better analyses of DNA damaging agents, generally in relation to cancer risk. As demonstrated by accidental adventures that led to scientific as well as life‐altering personal realizations, many of the most critical happenings in science and in life turn out to be “random,” unexpected, events. Finally, with this work and that of my lifelong tripmate William Lijinsky as models, it is suggested that a “non‐hypothesis driven,” open‐ended approach to research can be path‐breaking and forefront.
Three‐Dimensional Finite Element Analysis and Simplified One‐Dimensional Analysis Methods for Full‐Scale Viscoelastic Damper Considering Strain Sensitivity
Authors: Sato Daiki , Liang Qijun , Osabel Dave Montellano
Published: November 2024

Viscoelastic (VE) dampers are capable of dissipating energy over a variety of input vibration frequencies. They supplement both displacement‐ and velocity‐dependent restoring forces, thus, provide both stiffness and damping to the structure. For this, they are able to effectively mitigate both frequently occurring wind loads and seismic forces. They are sensitive to loading frequency, temperature, and strain level. Their combined sensitivity to both loading frequency and temperature is extensively researched through three‐dimensional finite element (3D‐FE) methods considering heat generation and transfer. However, they can experience a significant nonlinear reduction in dynamic mechanical properties under large strain levels. Pursuant to these, the previously developed 3D‐FE method is extended in this study by combining with a nonlinear strain level–sensitive constitutive rule to investigate the behavior of a full‐scale multilayer VE damper. This nonlinear 3D analysis method agrees accurately well with experimental results. Additionally, the 3D‐FE analysis results suggest an approach to one‐dimensional (1D) time‐history analysis. Despite of large strain level, the energy dissipation obtained from 3D‐FE analysis is uniform, further suggesting a framework for a simplified 1D approach, that is, considering uniform strain distribution. These 1D methods accurately predict VE damper global responses.
Last interglacial paleoshoreline location and tectono‐stratigraphic evolution of the peri‐Tyrrhenian Sarno basin, southern Italy, constrained by tephrostratigraphy
Authors: Totaro Federica , Petrosino Paola , Valente Ettore , Arienzo Ilenia , D'Antonio Massimo , Di Vito Mauro A. , Giaccio Biagio , Jicha Brian R. , Petrelli Maurizio , Santangelo Nicoletta , Santo Antonio , Zanchetta Giovanni
Published: November 2024

In this paper, we provide chronological constraints to reconstruct the Late Middle Pleistocene to Holocene geomorphological, stratigraphical and tectonic evolution of the inner Sarno plain, along the Tyrrhenian flank of Southern Italy. These constraints derive from tephrostratigraphical analysis and 40Ar/39Ar dating of volcanic deposits, chronologically constrained between ca. 40 ka and 184 ka, recovered from a borehole located in the pediment of the Sarno Mts. The lack of marine to transitional deposits in the borehole testifies that the entire area has been above sea level during this period. Conversely, analysis of previously drilled borehole data indicates the presence of an at least 200 m thick sequence of marine and transitional deposits beneath the Sarno Plain. The top of the marine to transitional deposits in the Sarno basin has been correlated with those in the San Valentino Torio High to the SW, dated to the MIS 5. Consequently, it may be envisaged that the upper portion of the marine deposits in the Sarno Plain also correlates with the MIS 5. This allows to estimate a mean subsidence rate in the last 125 ka, which is 0.32 mm/a. On the other hand, the uninterrupted 200 m‐thick marine succession means that subsidence in the Sarno basin was ≥0.7 mm/a during the preceding interval between ~285 ka and the last interglacial (LIG; MIS 9‐MIS 5). The subsidence was likely driven by the activity of the Sarno Fault, whose slip rate in the last 40 ka was significantly lower than the subsidence rate since the LIG and the MIS 9‐LIG interval. This implies that the fault slip rate has decreased during the last 285 ka. This paper provides a valuable contribution to the study of the complex interplay between glacio‐eustatic oscillations and tectonics to assess reliable paleo‐sea level indicators.
Evaluating Inflation Forecasts in the Euro Area and the Role of the ECB
Authors: Candelon Bertrand , Roccazzella Francesco
Published: November 2024

This paper evaluates the informative value of the ECB inflation forecasts vis‐à‐vis other institutional and model‐based forecasts in the euro area using ex post optimal combinations of forecasts and nonnegative weights. From a methodological perspective, we adapt the corresponding forecast encompassing test to the constrained parameter space, showcasing its superior performance over traditional encompassing tests in both size and power properties. Empirically, the combining weights and the forecast encompassing test reveal that the ECB was the most informative forecaster of euro area inflation over the 2009–2021 period. This changed in 2022: The ECB lost its position as the most informative forecaster, and when using rolling windows to estimate the combining weights using a rolling window, we find an important decline in the ECB's weight over time. This time dependency can be associated with the economic environment and, in particular, the level of uncertainty, the monetary policy, and the macro‐financial conditions in which the ECB operates.
Prior antibiotics exposure is associated with an elevated risk of surgical site infections, including anastomotic leakage, after colon cancer but not rectal cancer surgery: A register‐based study of 38,839 patients
Authors: Lu Sai San Moon , Rutegård Martin , Häggström Christel , Gylfe Åsa , Harlid Sophia , Van Guelpen Bethany
Published: November 2024

Gut microbiota composition has been implicated in surgical site complications after colorectal cancer surgery. Antibiotics affect gut microbiota, but evidence for a role in surgical site complications is inconclusive. We aimed to investigate use of prescription antibiotics during the years before surgery in relation to the risk of surgical site infections, including anastomotic leakage, within 30 days after surgery. Cardiovascular/neurological complications and the urinary antiseptic methenamine hippurate, for which there is no clear link with the microbiota, were used as negative controls. We conducted a patient cohort study using complete population data from Swedish national registers between 2005 and 2020. The final study population comprised 26,527 colon cancer and 12,312 rectal cancer cases with a 4.5 year exposure window. In colon cancer patients, antibiotics use was associated with a higher risk of surgical site infections (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) for any versus no use = 1.20, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.10–1.33) and anastomotic leakage in particular (aOR =1.19, 95% CI 1.03–1.36), both with dose–response relationships for increasing cumulative antibiotics use (Ptrend = <0.001 and Ptrend = 0.047, respectively). Conversely, associations in rectal cancer patients, as well as for the negative controls cardiovascular/neurological complications and methenamine hippurate, were null. In conclusion, prescription antibiotics use up to 4.5 years before colorectal cancer surgery is associated with a higher risk of surgical site infections, including anastomotic leakage, after colon cancer but not rectal cancer surgery. These findings support a role for antibiotics‐induced intestinal dysbiosis in surgical site infections.
Visceral literacies of marginalized adolescents in digital spaces: A cross‐case synthesis exploring affect and dialogue with texts
Authors: Jones Karis , Cooper‐Novack Gemma
Published: November 2024

Textual consumption in digital spaces has come under scrutiny by educators who worry about youth's surface‐level comprehension of such texts as well as the polarizing nature of online discourse. This paper synthesizes affective concepts of critical witness and glimmers of care to explore two cases in which adolescent writers in digital OST programs engage with digital communities surrounding texts like comics, movies, and video games. We trace how focal youth across the programs engage in critical witness around issues of marginalization in digital spaces outside of class in order to produce advocacy‐focused compositions addressing issues they encountered and discussed across informal digital learning spaces. We identified a common trajectory across both cases for these youth advocates: (1) experiencing and witnessing marginalization in digital spaces outside of class; (2) bringing critical witness to (digital) class; leading to (3) constellations of advocacy produced through compositions. Teachers can support such adolescents through affectively attuned instructional practices like framing spaces to center youth voices, providing multiple channels for peer conversation, inviting youth to co‐design expansive and creative assessments, and cultivating reciprocal understanding of power and vulnerability through practices of critical witness.
Effects of 1267 nm Illumination on Microcirculation Regulatory Mechanisms
Authors: Eratova Lyubov , Makovik Irina , Dremin Viktor
Published: November 2024

This study explored the effects of 1267 nm laser irradiation on changes in blood flow parameters and activation of the regulatory mechanisms of the microcirculatory bed (MCB). Using laser Doppler flowmetry (LDF) technique and time‐frequency analysis of perfusion signals, changes in the MCB of 16 healthy volunteers, targeting the distal phalanx of the third finger with 1267 nm laser irradiation were evaluated. Results indicated no significant differences in perfusion between control and target measurements, likely due to blood flow redistribution caused by vessel dilation/constriction. However, differences in oscillation amplitudes in endothelial and myogenic ranges were observed, suggesting microcirculation self‐regulation. Detailed analysis revealed characteristic peaks in the endothelial range during and after irradiation, indicating endothelial mediator release. It is assumed that the identified effects may be related to the singlet oxygen generated by 1267 nm laser irradiation, which directly affects the MCB, manifesting as endothelium‐dependent vascular activity.
Long‐Term Risk of Clinically Significant Prostate Cancer in Biopsy‐Negative Patients With Baseline Biparametric Prostate MRI
Authors: Parhiala Laura , Knaapila Juha , Jambor Ivan , Verho Janne , Syvänen Kari , Aronen Hannu , Boström Peter , Ettala Otto
Published: November 2024

Background

The long‐term prevalence of clinically significant prostate cancer (csPCa) in patients with initial negative prostate biopsy is unknown.

Purpose

To investigate the rate of csPCa of men with initial negative biopsy.

Study Type

Retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data.

Population

A total of 197 men (mean age 63 years [SD ±6.98, range 29–79]) without csPCa on initial biopsy and available baseline biparametric prostate MRI (bpMRI).

Field Strength/Sequence

3.0 T, turbo spin‐echo T2‐weighted (axial and sagittal) and three sets of diffusion‐weighted imaging using single‐shot spin‐echo planar imaging (5 b‐values 0–500 seconds/mm2; 2 b‐values 0 and 1500 seconds/mm2, and 2 b‐values 0 and 2000 seconds/mm2).

Assessment

BpMRI was read using Prostate Imaging Reporting Data System (PI‐RADS) v2.1. Systematic or targeted biopsy results served as reference standard.

Statistical Tests

Continuous variables were compared using Kruskal–Wallis rank sum test. Categorical variables were compared using either Fisher's exact test or Pearson's chi‐square test. Uni‐ and multivariate regression odds ratios (95% confidence interval) were used to study factors affecting csPCa being diagnosed during follow‐up. Time to diagnosis of csPCa is calculated using the Kaplan–Meier method.

Results

Of 197 men, 74 (38%), 57 (29%), and 66 (34%) presented with PI‐RADS 1–2, 3, and 4–5 findings in the baseline bpMRI. During the median follow‐up of 52 months, 8.1%, 5.3%, and 18.2% of these men were diagnosed with csPCa, respectively. Baseline PI‐RADS finding was the only factor that associated with csPCa found during the follow‐up.

Data Conclusion

Baseline bpMRI with PI‐RADS scores 1–3 and initial biopsies negative of csPCa had low rate of csPCa during follow‐up, which supports more conservative follow‐up for them but further research with longer follow‐up is warranted.

Level of Evidence

3

Technical Efficacy

Stage 2
Immediate Postoperative Changes After Expansion Pharyngoplasty and Hypoglossal Nerve Stimulation
Authors: Yu Phoebe K. , Wong Victoria , Cook Kaitlyn , Huyett Phillip
Published: November 2024

Objective

Patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) are at an increased risk for perioperative cardiopulmonary complications. Our objective was to assess the postoperative effects of hypoglossal nerve stimulation implantation (HGNS) and expansion pharyngoplasty (EP) on longitudinal sleep apnea measures as a surrogate for respiratory complications.

Study Design

Prospective longitudinal cohort study of patients with OSA undergoing HGNS or EP.

Methods

Sleep studies were performed with the NightOwl Mini peripheral arterial tonometry (PAT) device. Changes in apnea‐hypopnea index (AHI) and oximetry time below 90% (T90) were assessed between two baseline PAT studies prior to surgery and nightly PAT studies for the first postoperative nights (PON) 1–7, 10, and 14.

Results

Thirty patients were enrolled (19 HGNS, 11 EP). The mean age was 52.6 years, 76.7% were male, and the mean clinical baseline AHI was 29.8/h. There were no significant changes in the AHI or T90 following HGNS implantation. Following EP, there was a statistically significant mean increase in AHI of +19.2/h on PON1, +24.9/h on PON2, and + 20/h on PON3 compared to baseline. T90 was also elevated after EP on PON1, 4, and 5. The mean increase in T90 was +7.4% (95% CI 2.9, 11.9) on PON1 compared to baseline.

Conclusions

In the immediate postoperative period, there were no significant changes in AHI or hypoxemia after HGNS, suggesting that there is no need for routine overnight observation after HGNS. There were significant increases in AHI and hypoxemia after EP suggesting that postoperative disposition should be considered on a case‐by‐case basis.

Level of Evidence

III Laryngoscope, 2024
Producing plankton classifiers that are robust to dataset shift
Authors: Chen C. , Kyathanahally S. P. , Reyes M. , Merkli S. , Merz E. , Francazi E. , Hoege M. , Pomati F. , Baity‐Jesi M.
Published: November 2024

Modern plankton high‐throughput monitoring relies on deep learning classifiers for species recognition in water ecosystems. Despite satisfactory nominal performances, a significant challenge arises from dataset shift, which causes performances to drop during deployment. In our study, we integrate the ZooLake dataset, which consists of dark‐field images of lake plankton (Kyathanahally et al. 2021a), with manually annotated images from 10 independent days of deployment, serving as test cells to benchmark out‐of‐dataset (OOD) performances. Our analysis reveals instances where classifiers, initially performing well in in‐dataset conditions, encounter notable failures in practical scenarios. For example, a MobileNet with a 92% nominal test accuracy shows a 77% OOD accuracy. We systematically investigate conditions leading to OOD performance drops and propose a preemptive assessment method to identify potential pitfalls when classifying new data, and pinpoint features in OOD images that adversely impact classification. We present a three‐step pipeline: (i) identifying OOD degradation compared to nominal test performance, (ii) conducting a diagnostic analysis of degradation causes, and (iii) providing solutions. We find that ensembles of BEiT vision transformers, with targeted augmentations addressing OOD robustness, geometric ensembling, and rotation‐based test‐time augmentation, constitute the most robust model, which we call BEsT. It achieves an 83% OOD accuracy, with errors concentrated on container classes. Moreover, it exhibits lower sensitivity to dataset shift, and reproduces well the plankton abundances. Our proposed pipeline is applicable to generic plankton classifiers, contingent on the availability of suitable test cells. By identifying critical shortcomings and offering practical procedures to fortify models against dataset shift, our study contributes to the development of more reliable plankton classification technologies.
Super‐Large Field‐of‐View, High‐Accurate and Real‐Time 3D Scene Reconstruction Based on Metasurface‐Enabled Structured Light
Authors: Zhang Zhengren , Qu Anjun , Yang Mengran , Li Zile , Huang Tian , Chen Shuqi , Cheng Hua , Yu Shaohua , Zheng Guoxing
Published: November 2024

Three‐dimensional (3D) reconstruction based on structured light (SL) has wide applications in fields such as artificial intelligence, surveying and mapping, and precision manufacturing. An ideal 3D reconstruction system features both wide field‐of‐views (FOV), high‐accuracy and high‐speed reconstruction and ultracompact volume. However, these criteria have been achieved only partially with conventional SL techniques like optical projector and differentiate optical element, which will substantially limit their practical applications. In this study, an ultracompact SL and its 3D reconstruction system is designed and experimentally demonstrated, which exhibits super‐large FOV angles up to 210° × 210°, only 3.8‰ reconstruction errors, real‐time processing speeds up to 30 fps and SL dimensions as small as 0.3 mm × 0.3 mm. Specifically, the SL is realized with a resonant geometric metasurface, which can produce tens of thousands of random dots and project them into the whole 4π free space. The metasurface enabled SL is collaborated with a binocular stereoscopic camera and advanced 3D reconstruction algorism to form a practical 3D reconstruction system, which can provide robust hardware and software support for high‐accuracy and real‐time 3D scene reconstruction.
Approximation Schemes for Parallel Machine Scheduling to Maximize Total Weighted Early Work With a Common Due Date
Authors: Li Weidong , Ou Jinwen
Published: November 2024

In this article, we study a parallel machine scheduling problem with a common due date to maximize total weighted early work. We present the first EPTAS (efficient polynomial time approximation scheme) for this scheduling problem. In the EPTAS, we first schedule the large jobs with rounded processing times via an integer programming formulation and a network‐flow‐based algorithm, followed by further scheduling the small jobs via a greedy method. For the special case in which the number of machines is fixed, we design an FPTAS (fully polynomial time approximation scheme).
Evaluation of Multidentate Ligands Derived from Ethyl 1,2,4‐triazine‐3‐carboxylate Building Blocks as Potential An(III)‐Selective Extractants for Nuclear Reprocessing
Authors: Zaytsev Andrey V. , Distler Petr , John Jan , Wilden Andreas , Modolo Giuseppe , Sims Mark , Lewis Frank W.
Published: November 2024

Bis‐1,2,4‐triazine ligands are amongst the most promising soft N‐donor ligands for the partitioning of trivalent actinides from trivalent lanthanides; a key separation proposed in the future reprocessing of spent nuclear fuels. In an effort to improve the extraction properties of these benchmark ligands, we propose herein a general ligand design approach that is inspired by the field of drug discovery, and we apply it to a new class of ligands in which the bidentate 3‐(2‐pyridyl)‐1,2,4‐triazine unit of the benchmark ligands is replaced by a bidentate 1,2,4‐triazine‐3‐carboxamide unit. A series of nine novel ligands were synthesized by reactions of readily available ethyl 1,2,4‐triazine‐3‐carboxylate building blocks with different polyamine cores and evaluated for their ability to extract and separate Am(III) and Cm(III) from Eu(III). One of the reported ligands can co‐extract Am(III) and Eu(III) from nitric acid into cyclohexanone, albeit with no selectivity between the metal ions. NMR titration experiments suggested that ligand 23 b formed a chiral 1 : 1 complex species with La(III) but not Lu(III) or Y(III), suggesting the coordination cavity of the ligand is sensitive to the size of the metal ion. The structures and thermodynamic parameters for the proposed complexes were further supported by DFT calculations.
Hotspots in peril: Misalignment of conservation efforts and ecological values in a shallow coastal sea
Authors: Meijer Kasper J. , Franken Oscar , Witte Sterre , Holthuijsen Sander J. , van der Heide Tjisse , Govers Laura L. , Olff Han
Published: November 2024

Misalignment between the location of marine protected areas (MPAs) and ecologically valuable areas, here defined as low conservation conformity, may arise due to conflicting socioeconomic and ecological demands, diminishing MPA effectiveness. Such conflicts are especially found in coastal areas with high human population density and high natural productivity. Here, we aim to provide a framework to quantitatively and qualitatively assess conservation conformity using multiple indicators to identify hotspots of ecological quality.

We use the subtidal Dutch Wadden Sea as a case study due to its unique natural, cultural, and economic values and the availability of high‐resolution spatial data. We focus on macrozoobenthic communities (larger animals living in and on the seafloor), a vital group experiencing significant ecological degradation due to a long history of human activity. A complex set of restrictions has been implemented to prevent further macrozoobenthos degradation and to stimulate recovery. We first spatially overlay and translate the different protection measures to international standards. We then determine hotspots of ecological quality based on nationally and internationally used indicators of biodiversity and seafloor status and map their overlap with protected areas.

We found that in 2024, 37% of the 134,466 ha subtidal Dutch Wadden Sea has some level of protection. However, due to the poor spatial overlap of implemented measures, the IUCN‐based guidelines would classify only 10% as an MPA, while only 2% of the subtidal is truly free of human bottom‐disturbing activities. Of this total subtidal area, 19% was classified as an ecological hotspot based on multiple indicators. However, the protection measures in place overlapped very poorly with these ecological hotspots. Overall, only in 2% of the total subtidal area, IUCN‐classified MPAs overlapped with locations identified as ecological hotspots for at least six indicators, indicating poor overlap of MPAs with ecological hotspots.

Because the whole Wadden Sea is subject to several international protection schemes (e.g. Natura 2000, OSPAR convention, Ramsar Convention, and UNESCO World Heritage), these results call for substantial adjustment of the current conservation layout. We thus emphasise the importance of quantitatively evaluating potential misalignment between protected areas and ecologically valuable areas in coastal zones.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Oxcarbazepine and clozapine interaction
Authors: Lam Y. W. Francis
Published: November 2024

The atypical antipsychotic clozapine is considered the primary agent for patients with treatment‐resistant schizophrenia, and is also used at times in the treatment of other treatment‐resistant psychotic disorders. Despite its efficacy, use of clozapine is often limited by the occurrence of significant adverse effects, smoking‐induced increased metabolism, and drug‐drug interactions due to co‐administered medications to treat concurrent medical and psychiatric conditions.
Quantum Gates with Different Robust Merits
Authors: Sun Chunfang , Wang Yimin , Wang Gangcheng , Wu Chunfeng
Published: November 2024

A protocol for implementing a universal set of quantum gates, which are safeguarded from noise through geometric, dephasing‐free, and dynamical‐decoupling approaches is proposed. With properly designed Hamiltonians, the desired interactions are realized directly within the Schrödinger picture rather than relying on the interaction picture. This design confers two advantages. One is that the system's evolution remains continuously protected by the noise‐mitigation strategies at every stage, eliminating the need to revert to the Schrödinger picture. The other one is that the dynamical decoupling technique effectively averages out small residual free terms in the system's Hamiltonian, thus reducing the stringent requirements for precise control of system parameters to avoid errors. Furthermore, numerical results are presented to support our protocol by finding gate fidelities in the absence (presence) of noises or errors, without or with dynamical decoupling technique.
Conductive Porous Solid Framework Mechanically Stabilized Si Anode
Authors: Gu Run , Shen Shiji , Li Xinran , Xiang Wenyi , Kong Xiangkun , Hu Jixiang , Liu Xiaoye , Jin Zongzi , Li Cui , Ma Xu , Bao Yinhua , Wang Chengwei
Published: November 2024

Micron‐sized Si anodes garner renewed attention due to their advantages of low cost, small specific surface area, and high energy density. However, micron‐sized Si anodes undergo significant volume changes during lithiation/delithiation, leading to particle cracking and pulverization. This study employs the tape casting method and ultrafast high‐temperature sintering technology to construct a porous sheet, within which a solid framework constrains the Si particles. In rate performance tests, when the current density rises to 1 A g−1, the micron‐sized Si in the porous sheet demonstrates a delithiation capacity of 2145 mAh g−1, compared to 113 mAh g−1 for the pristine Si, showing efficient ion and electron conductive pathways in the framework. When cycled at 0.3 A g−1, the delithiation capacity of the ball‐milled micron‐sized Si in the porous sheet is 1496 mAh g−1 after 100 cycles, in contrast to 95 mAh g−1 for the pristine Si. The enhanced cycling stability of Si in the porous sheet results from the strong mechanical constraint imposed by the solid framework, which suppresses volume changes, inhibits particle cracking, and reduces solid electrolyte interphase growth. This strategy of constructing porous sheets and utilizing solid‐solid bonding to constrain Si particles represents a novel approach for Si anode modification.
Modulating the Iron Microenvironment for a Cooperative Interplay Between Fe‐N‐C Single Atoms and Fe3C Nanoclusters on the Oxygen Reduction Reaction
Authors: Dessalle Anthony , Quílez‐Bermejo Javier , Hounfodji Jean Wilfried , Badawi Michael , Zitolo Andrea , Emo Mélanie , Izquierdo María T. , Xu Feina , Fierro Vanessa , Celzard Alain
Published: November 2024

The coexistence of single atoms and nanoparticles is shown to increase the oxygen reduction performance in Fe‐N‐C electrocatalysts, but the mechanisms underlying this synergistic effect remain elusive. In this study, model Fe‐N‐C electrocatalysts with controlled ratios of FeN4 sites and Fe3C nanoclusters is systematically designed and synthesized. Experiments and density functional theory (DFT) computations reveal that Fe3C nanoclusters near FeN4 sites modulate the electron density of the Fe single‐atom microenvironment through an electron withdrawing effect. This substantially alters the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) mechanisms and boosts the catalytic performance of FeN4 sites. This study provides fundamental insights into the dynamic catalytic impact of single atoms and nanoparticle coexistence in advanced Fe‐N‐C electrocatalysts for the ORR, paving the way for further refinement through various combinations.
Atomic Active Centers Anchored Photocatalysts for CO2 Reduction to Renewable Ethylene/Ethane
Authors: Hashem Elhussein M. , Talebian‐Kiakalaieh Amin , Guo Meijun , Chen Tian , Ridwan Jaenudin , Kwong Philip , Ran Jingrun
Published: November 2024

Photocatalytic CO2 reduction to ethylene/ethane offers a sustainable and cost‐effective approach to simultaneously produce these high‐demand chemicals while reducing atmospheric CO2 level. Lately, atomic active centers (AACs) anchored photocatalysts are comprehensively investigated for their exceptional photocatalytic performance regarding the photosynthesis of ethylene/ethane. This review provides a critical summary of the incorporation of various AACs, such as Cu, Au, Ag, Mo, Ni, P/Cu, and CuAu, onto different photocatalyst supports, including metal oxide, carbon nitride, red phosphorous, covaleng organic framework , and bimetallic sulfide together with their crucial role in raising the rates of ethylene/ethane production and selectivities. Furthermore, this review offers a comprehensive summary/analyses of preparation routes, chemical composition, atomic configurations, coordination structures, optical characteristics, structure–performance relationship, reaction intermediates, reaction pathways, photocatalysis mechanism, and photocatalytic performances of the as‐prepared AAC anchored photocatalysts using state‐of‐art in situ characterization techniques. This review also emphasizes the challenges in the process of photocatalytic CO2 conversion to target products, the role of anchored AACs, limitations, potential applications, and future outlooks for AACs anchored photocatalysts.
Cryptotanshinone Suppresses the STAT3/BCL‐2 Pathway to Provoke Human Bladder Urothelial Carcinoma Cell Death
Authors: Tung Min‐Che , Chang Ge‐Man , Dai Wen‐Chyi , Hsu Chen‐Hsuan , Chang Hsiang‐Chun , Yang Wei‐Ting , Ho Yann‐Jen , Lu Chien‐Hsing , Chen Yi‐Hsin , Chang Chia‐Che
Published: November 2024

Bladder cancer is one of the most common human malignancies worldwide. Aberrant activation of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) is crucial to driving malignant progression and predicting poor prognosis of multiple human cancers, including bladder cancer, making STAT3 a promising target of cancer therapeutics. Cryptotanshinone (CTS) is an anticancer ingredient of Danshen (Salvia miltiorrhiza), a top‐graded Chinese medicinal herb. However, whether CTS targets STAT3 to exert its cytotoxic effect on human bladder cancer remains unknown. Herein, we demonstrated that CTS is cytotoxic to multiple human urinary bladder transitional cell carcinoma (TCC) cell lines while sparing normal human urothelial cells. CTS provoked apoptosis‐dependent bladder TCC cytotoxicity, as apoptosis blockage by z‐VAD‐fmk markedly rescued the clonogenicity of CTS‐treated cells. Besides, CTS was found to suppress constitutive and interleukin 6‐inducible activation of STAT3, evidenced by the downregulation of STAT3 tyrosine 705 phosphorylation and BCL2, a recognized STAT3 transcriptional target. Notably, ectopic expression of a dominant‐active STAT3 mutant (STAT3‐C) or BCL‐2 alleviated CTS‐induced apoptosis and clonogenicity inhibition, thus confirming STAT3 blockade as a pivotal mechanism of CTS's cytotoxic action on bladder TCC cells. Lastly, immunoblotting revealed that CTS lowered the levels of active JAK2, an upstream kinase that mediates STAT3 tyrosine 705 phosphorylation. Altogether, we conclude that the blockade of the JAK2/STAT3/BCL‐2 antiapoptotic signaling axis is a vital mechanism whereby CTS provokes bladder cancer cytotoxicity. The current evidence implicates CTS's potential to be translated into a bladder cancer therapeutic agent.
Identification of resistance sources and genomic regions regulating Septoria tritici blotch resistance in South Asian bread wheat germplasm
Authors: Kumar Manjeet , He Xinyao , Navathe Sudhir , Kamble Umesh , Patial Madhu , Singh Pawan Kumar
Published: November 2024

The Septoria tritici blotch (STB) [Zymoseptoria tritici (Desm.)] of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is characterized by its polycyclic and hemibiotrophic nature. It is one of the most dangerous diseases affecting wheat production worldwide. Durable resistance is largely decided by the combined effect of several quantitative trait loci (QTLs) having a minor effect. Currently, STB is not important in South Asia. However, STB expanding and wider adaptability, changing climatic conditions, and agronomic practices can create a situation of concern. Therefore, dissection of the genetic architecture of adult‐plant resistance with genome‐wide association mapping and selection of resistant sources for adult plant STB resistance were carried out on a panel of South Asian germplasm. We discovered the 91 quantitative trait nucleotides (QTNs) associated with STB resistance; 23 QTNs were repetitive across the different years and models. Many of these QTNs could differentiate the mapping panel into resistant versus susceptible groups and were linked to candidate genes related to disease resistance functions within linkage disequilibrium blocks. The repetitive QTNs, namely, Q.CIM.stb.2DL.2, Q.CIM.stb_dh.2DL.3, Q.CIM.stb.2AL.5, and Q.CIM.stb.7BL.1, may be novel due to the absence of co‐localization of previously reported QTLs, meta‐quantitative trait loci, and STB genes. There was a perfect negative correlation between the stacking of favorable alleles and STB susceptibility, and STB resistance response was improved by ∼50% with the stacking of ≥60% favorable alleles. The genotypes, namely, CIM20, CIM56, CIM57, CIM18, CIM44, WK2395, and K1317, could be used as resistant sources in wheat breeding programs. Therefore, this study could aid in designing the breeding programs for STB resistance before the onset of the alarming situation of STB in South Asia.
Bovine Trypanosomosis: Seasonal Prevalence and Vector Density in Dara District, Sidama Region, Ethiopia
Authors: Jiso Tafese , Hailegebreal Gizachew , Shiferaw Dessie
Published: November 2024

In sub‐Saharan Africa, animal trypanosomosis is a wasting disease that reduces livestock's health and productivity. A recurrent cross‐sectional investigation was carried out in the Dara district of the Sidama region in dry and wet seasons to estimate the apparent density of Glossina spp. and the seasonal prevalence of bovine trypanosomosis. Study animals were selected by systematic random sampling, and a total of 388 blood samples were analysed using Giemsa‐stained thin blood smear and Buffy coat methods in both the wet and dry seasons. To conduct a study on tsetse and biting flies, 80 odour‐baited NGU traps were placed near the grazing and watering locations. The overall prevalence of trypanosomosis was 4.4% (95% CI = 2.7–7.0), of which 1.5% and 7.2% accounted for dry and wet seasons, respectively. The prevalence of Trpanosoma congolense, Trypanosoma vivax and mixed infection (T. congolense and T. vivax) was 1.6% (95% CI = 0.3–2.8), 1.3% (95% CI = 0.2–2.4) and 1.6% (95% CI = 0.3–2.8), respectively. The prevalence of trypanosomosis was significantly higher in the wet season than dry season (OR = 5, p < 0.05) and in black coat colour animals than in the other coat colour animals (OR = 6.6, p < 0.05). The mean PCV of parasitaemic animals (21.2 ± 0.5) was significantly lower than that of aparasitaemic animals (27.7 ± 0.2). A total of 931 flies were caught, of which 154 (16%) were tsetse flies, while 148 (16%) were Tabanids and 136 (15%) were Stomoxys. In the research area, Glossina pallidipes was the only spp. identified. The overall mean apparent density of G. pallidipes was 0.96 F/T/D. G. pallidipes were caught in comparatively greater numbers during the wet season than during the dry season. Overall, the results of this study demonstrated that the region's cattle production is threatened by Glossina spp. and trypanosomosis. Therefore, a sustainable community‐based tsetse and trypanosomosis control program should be put into place to lessen the impacts of trypanosomosis and Glossina activity.